A platform to amplify the voices of first generation Muslim Americans through raw and transparent dialogue.
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Zul-Qarnain — the man who made headlines after interrupting Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime show in a bold protest against the ongoing wars and genocide in Palestine and Sudan. Zul-Qarnain shares an unfiltered, emotional account of that day: the motivation behind his public act, what happened behind the scenes, and how it sparked global conversations around justice and human rights.We also explore his tireless work beyond that moment. He opens up about his charity initiatives aimed at supporting war-affected families, his dawah efforts through The Open Book platform, and how he's using media to reframe narratives about Islam. Zul-Qarnain also walks us through his deeply personal reversion story to Islam — from spiritual searching to the conviction that led him to faith.This episode is a reflection on courage, faith, activism, and the power of standing up when the world is watching
One year in reflection of the tragic genocide on Gaza and the events and information that came to light as a result of the unfortunate event.
In this episode, we dive into three significant and pressing topics. First, we explore the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, examining the destruction it caused and the ongoing recovery efforts in affected communities. Next, we turn our attention briefly to the invasion into Lebanon, discussing its implications for regional stability. Finally, we feature an in-depth interview from CBS Mornings with Ta-Nehisi Coates, who discusses his new book, *The Message*. Coates faces scrutiny for his perspectives on the current situation in Gaza, prompting a broader conversation about the complexities of race, identity, and global politics. Tune in for a thought-provoking blend of disaster response, historical analysis, and contemporary discourse.
In this powerful episode, we dive into the controversial case of Marcellous Williams, whose execution raised serious questions about justice in our system. We unpack the details of his conviction, the evidence (or lack thereof), and the larger issues of capital punishment that hit home in urban communities. With candid conversations and personal insights, we tackle topics like wrongful convictions, systemic bias, and the real-life impacts of these issues. Join us as we confront hard truths about justice, morality, and what it means to fight for a fair system. This is more than a story; it's a call to action. Tune in and be part of the conversation!
In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the controversies surrounding the Paris Olympics, where the opening ceremonies sparked intense debate over their perceived mockery of religion. We explore the implications of the hijab ban, the misgendering of women boxers, and the participation of individuals labeled as war criminals. Join us as we unpack these complex moral issues, examining the intersection of sports, politics, and ethics in a global arena. As we explore these moral complexities, you'll find yourself questioning your own moral compass and how collective acceptance of diverse values can shape a more inclusive world when the globe comes together.
In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the multifaceted landscape of the Pro-Palestinian movement within the African American community. As voices within this community express diverse perspectives, we explore the underlying factors contributing to these divisions, the main one being anti-blackness and the subtlety in which in it creeps in conversations even amongst other marginalized communities. We'll also address questions of solidarity, intersectionality, and the impact of geopolitical conflicts on domestic activism. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in navigating these complex issues.
In this episode, we're breaking down Mongolia's wild and unique style entering the Olympics. From ancient traditions to modern sports, we're exploring how Mongolia brings a one-of-a-kind flavor to the Games. We're also shining a spotlight on Spain's soccer superstar who absolutely crushed it in the Euro Finals. With the world spotlight on this young man we ask the important question, what does it take to be a teenage phelonion? We also welcome Bruno Mars to the "BLOCK" party for his recent concert in Isreal.
In this episode we discuss the infamous assignation of Donald "Curtis Jackson" Trump and share our initial reactions on the events that shook U.S. politics and social media!
In this episode we explore the parallels between the black struggle in America and the Palestinian struggle in the Occupied territories of Palestine and we see they have a lot more in common than people may recognize.
In this episode we continue the previous conversation discussing the events of Oct 7th and where we fall on the incidents on that day and what lead to that event.
In this episode we have brief overview of the AL-Aqsa flood operation and the 100 year occupation of Palestine. With strong narratives produced from each side we question where do you fall in the matter?
In this episode we take a look at some of Isnotreals involvements across the world and the impact they left. What we discover is that there seems to be a glaring pattern of behavior. Lets see if you can figure out what it is.
In this conversation we have a sit down with Hasmoneus, one of the founders of the Lions Den on Tik Tok. Hasmoneus is an influential personality on tik tok lives pertaining to Palestine and Israel debates and religious debates pertaining to the original Israelites of the Bible. His main focus comes from a religious background as a follower of the bible, as we look at this conflict in Palestine more a from a spiritual lens. Many people support Palestine for many different reasons but ultimately for most people the issue boils down to a fight between the fundamental principles of right and wrong regardless of what you believe in.
In this episode we review the ICJ ruling in the South African case over Israel in its part in committing a Genocide. We also discuss the overall importance and role international law plays on events and cases such as this.
In this episode we have a conversation with Zoubida El Arabia, a prominent voice in the TikTok sphere on Palestine/Israel live debates and ask her about the most common Zionist talking points and arguments and how she addresses them in debates and discussions. This conversation was set with the intent of educational purposes only.
Proud to announce a new segment in our latest series called "Amplifying Palestinians' voices". This series was formed with the sole intention to do just that. With all the constant attention centered around Palestine in the news and on social media, we found it especially important to give a space and a microphone to those directly affected by the ongoing genocide to make sure their voices are heard and not to speak for them or over them, but to amplify their voices. Today we talk with "Keeks" whose family is from the West bank, as she describes the situations for the average Palestinian prior to Oct 7th.
In the second installment of Loose Merto Palestine series, we explore the super important but extremely controversial conversation of Antisemitism vs Anit-Zionism. Joining us today is our friend Mel (melladramatic_), an observer of the Jewish faith and strong voice on social media against Zionism, as she takes us down her journey of her aliyah (migration) to occupied territory of Palestine, her experiences living there, and what lead her to Anti-Zionism and speaking up against the illegal state of Isreal.
We return with the first episode of our Palestine series! After a few years hiatus, and an uncertainty on the direction and future of the podcast, we felt a topic of this magnitude compelled us to use our platform and our voices to speak up on the current crisis in hopes to educate ourselves and our communities and advocate for the plight of the Palestians by having conversations that were crucial no matter who uncomfortable they made be.
Life really doesn't get better after getting a degree? Is college the peak or is that saying overrated? What do you think....
As the Eid time approaches, many Muslims around the world are preparing celebrations, but many don't know the true meaning of the holiday. Do we know why we are celebrating? Joining us is our resident scholar and neighborhood Imam Hafiz Siyam for an in-depth interview for the true meaning of Eid
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. We take a deep dive into this important topic.
Join the Loose Merto team as we reflect on our 2020 journey thus far. We dive into the good, the bad and the ugly to give the listeners an honest conversation about what it's taken to get to this point.
Have you ever felt lost with regards to religion? Have you ever felt like your Iman was weak? We discuss that and how to fix it on this episode.
How do woman want to be approached? What's the best way to slide in the DMs? We talk to the women to figure these things out.
The 2020 elections are here and that all anyone can talk about, so let's talk!
“It is not until you change your identity to match your life blueprint that you will understand why everything in the past never worked.”
What Is Toxic Masculinity? The concept has been around forever. But suddenly, the term seems to be everywhere. We discuss the concept and so much more.
Shooting your shot..."You miss 100% of the shots you don't take"
"It's complicated - love. It's so unique every time, with every person. And when the real thing comes along, I guess we just have to hope we see it. "
As we all navigate the uncharted waters of the black lives matter movement, one of the hardest parts is figuring out the next steps. We talk though all of this and more in this weeks episode.
Is the American dream becoming the American illusion? Or was it all a myth? We dive into what America has become and the reality of today.
Being a black woman in the United States is unique and tough. We discuss our own experiences, the stereotypes, cultural pressures and many more in this episode.
Why is Beyonce's Black is King so controversial? We take a deep dive into this visual album and see what all the hype is about.
Do you have a toxic person in your life? Draining, unsupportive, and difficult people are one of life’s greatest challenges. What toxic traits currently exist in our community? That's the topic we discuss in this episode.
We discuss the fine line between keeping people accountable for their words and actions versus being too sensitive how we react.
The whole team jumped on and talked through where we have been and how we have been dealing with the last couple of months.
We take a deep dive into working on spirituality when you are not able to fast.
We discuss with community Imam and Hafiz Siyam how to connect with the Quran with on an individual level and some of the roadblocks and obstacles along the way.
We discuss the significance of the first ten days of Ramadan and the mercy of Allah SWT with Moulana Asad (Imam of Georgia Islamic Institute)
We discuss the challenges of our current situation of living in quarantine during this blessed month of Ramadan.
Welcome the the Loose Merto podcast! We are excited to introduce you to our team and share our vision of what we want to accomplish. Join us on this journey.