The Path We Choose

He Got Tired of Waiting, So He Fixed Montreal Himself | Saad Tekiout & Shahrez Hayder

He Got Tired of Waiting, So He Fixed Montreal Himself | Saad Tekiout & Shahrez Hayder In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Saad Tekiout and Shahrez Hayder to explore the story behind the Montreal man who went viral for fixing potholes across the city himself. What started as one simple act of service quickly became something much bigger. Saad began repairing potholes for friends, family, and people across Montreal before the videos ever went viral. For him, it was never about attention. It was about solving a problem he saw in his city and helping people who were tired of waiting for someone else to step in. This conversation goes beyond potholes. Saad shares why he sees Montreal, Quebec, and Canada as his community, why he believes helping others is the same as helping yourself, and why small actions can create a much larger ripple effect. Shahrez also joins the conversation to discuss masculinity, responsibility, purpose, leadership, and what it means to take action instead of just complaining. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why Saad started fixing potholes in Montreal • How one simple act turned into a city-wide movement • Why real leadership starts with taking responsibility • What it means to serve your community without waiting for permission • How small actions can create a domino effect • Why Saad believes the mission is bigger than potholes • The connection between purpose, masculinity, and action Whether you’re from Montreal, interested in community change, or simply inspired by people who choose action over excuses, this episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest movements start with one person deciding to fix what’s in front of them. Timestamps: CHAPTERS * 00:00:00 Introduction: The Man Who Fixed Montreal's Potholes Himself * 00:01:37 The Path of a Regular Citizen: Why He Started Filling Potholes * 00:03:14 Masculinity Defined: Being Unapologetically Yourself * 00:06:16 Helping Your Community: The Village Mentality * 00:08:21 The Inner Child and Finding Your Purpose * 00:12:09 Taking Action Without Seeking Permission * 00:14:57 The Government Response and Standing Your Ground * 00:16:34 Beyond Potholes: Building a Movement for Change * 00:17:43 Business Values: Sincerity and Putting Customers First * 00:19:15 Focusing on Positives: The Power of Selective Attention * 00:29:58 The Homeless Crisis: Addressing Root Causes * 00:36:23 Discipline and Purpose: Never Getting Tired of Success * 00:43:58 The School System: Finding Your Own Path * 00:47:29 The Report Card Theory: Double Down on Your Strengths * 00:59:16 Taking Action: What Stops People and How to Overcome It * 01:05:56 Dress for the Job You Want: The Power of Appearance * 01:03:41 Final Message: You Are What You Do, Not What You Say Follow Saad Tekiout: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marquize.7/ [https://www.instagram.com/marquize.7/] Follow Shahrez Hayder: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/ [https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder [https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder] Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC): Website: https://thepathwechoose.com [https://thepathwechoose.com] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/ [https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/] TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/ [https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/] Subscribe to The Path We Choose for real conversations on purpose, responsibility, leadership, community, and the decisions that shape who we become.

Why "Knowing" Islam Isn’t Changing Your Life | Muhammad Al-Ubaidy & Shahrez Hayder

Why "Knowing" Islam Isn’t Changing Your Life | Muhammad Al-Ubaidy & Shahrez Hayder Why do so many people have faith and belief but still struggle to take action? In this powerful episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Muhammad Al-Ubaidy and Shahrez Hayder to explore the real gap between faith, discipline, and consistent action. This conversation breaks down why people often feel stuck between what they believe and what they actually do. From procrastination and lack of discipline to fear, overthinking, and misalignment this episode dives deep into the psychology behind taking action and building consistency. If you follow top North American podcasts like The Diary of a CEO, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, The Tim Ferriss Show, or authors like James Clear, Simon Sinek, Brené Brown, and Ryan Holiday, this episode connects deeply with conversations around self discipline, mindset, productivity, and personal growth. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN:  • Why having faith without action leads to frustration • The real reason people struggle with discipline and consistency • How to overcome procrastination and overthinking • The mindset shift needed to take consistent action • How to align your beliefs with daily habits • Building self discipline and mental strength • Turning intention into real results and progress Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, professional, or someone trying to improve their life, this episode gives you practical insights to close the gap between belief and execution. Timestamps: CHAPTERS * 00:00:00 Introduction: The Heart vs. The Mind - Finding Truth Within * 00:01:10 The Heart as the Gateway to the Divine * 00:03:14 Fixing the Inner to Transform the Outer Reality * 00:05:25 The Mind is Contractionary, The Heart is Expansionary * 00:28:50 Living in the Present Moment: The Experience of Life * 00:41:13 The Trifecta: Taqwa, Tawakkul, and Murakaba * 00:50:19 Understanding Shaitan: Know Your Enemy to Defeat Him * 00:40:25 Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling * 01:02:54 The Levels of Nafs: From Guilt to Unconditional Love * 01:15:56 Actions Follow the Heart: Becoming an Absolute Muslim * 01:29:20 The Power of Theta State: Manifesting Through Surrender  Follow Muhammad Al-Ubaidy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reachmohammed/ [https://www.instagram.com/reachmohammed/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moe.ady.3/ [https://www.facebook.com/moe.ady.3/] Website: https://themirror-book.com/ [https://themirror-book.com/]  Follow Shahrez Hayder: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/ [https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder [https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder]  Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC): Website: https://thepathwechoose.com [https://thepathwechoose.com] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/ [https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/] TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/ [https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/] Subscribe to The Path We Choose (TPWC) for powerful conversations on self discipline, faith, mindset, productivity, personal growth, and high-performance habits.

Why Women Test Men: Psychology, Attraction & Relationship Dynamics Explained | Shahrez Hayder

Shahrez Hayder on Women Psychology, Attraction & Relationship Dynamics Why do women test men in relationships and what does it really mean? In this powerful episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Shahrez Hayder to break down the psychology behind attraction, relationship dynamics, and behavioral patterns between men and women. This conversation explores why women often test men’s confidence, emotional stability, and leadership, and how most men misunderstand these situations leading to confusion, frustration, and failed connections. Shahrez explains how these “tests” are not manipulation, but signals rooted in psychology, attraction, and emotional security. If you follow top North American podcasts like The Diary of a CEO, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, The Tim Ferriss Show, or authors like Brené Brown, Esther Perel, and Mark Manson, this episode connects deeply with conversations around modern relationships, dating psychology, and emotional intelligence. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:  • Why women test men in dating and relationships • The psychology of attraction and emotional security • Why most men fail these tests (and how to improve) • How to build confidence and emotional stability • The role of masculine energy and leadership • How to respond to relationship challenges the right way • Building stronger, more authentic connections Timestamps: CHAPTERS * 00:00:00 Introduction: What Masculinity Really Means * 00:01:03 The Unshakable Man: Faith as the Foundation * 00:05:24 Understanding Women: The Bridge to Jannah * 00:07:40 The Test Never Ends: Why Women Challenge Men * 00:12:32 Biochemistry of Love: Oxytocin, Cortisol, and Safety * 00:14:19 The Triangle: Allah, Man, and Woman * 00:15:12 Words Have Weight: The Power of a Man's Speech * 00:16:01 The Hockey Stick Effect: When Attraction Suddenly Dies * 00:16:40 Women Are Loyal to How They Feel About You * 00:30:12 What Women Misunderstand About Men * 00:35:56 Default Settings: All Women Are the Same, But Different * 00:37:08 Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling * 00:38:03 Don't Save Her: Accepting vs Fixing Women * 00:25:26 Men Build Connection Through Time, Women Through Space * 00:21:32 Quality Over Quantity: The Prophet's Example * 00:46:30 Insecurity vs Gira: Protecting Ego or Protecting Her * 00:54:37 Confidence Doesn't Make Noise: The Silent Strength * 00:56:55 The Power of Honesty: Never Lie to Your Woman * 00:45:09 Spirituality and Women: Speaking to Her Soul * 01:08:17 What Men and Women Must Unlearn * 01:11:52 Redefining Respect: Who Are You Really Trying to Please * 01:14:26 The Qawam Identity: Becoming the Protector and Provider * 01:16:55 Cortisol and Masculinity: How Men Affect Women's Health Whether you're navigating dating, building a relationship, or trying to understand modern relationship psychology, this episode offers practical insights to improve your confidence, communication, and emotional awareness. Follow Shahrez Hayder: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/ Instagram (Alt): https://instagram.com/shahrez.muslim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shahrez.muslim Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC):  Website: https://thepathwechoose.com [https://thepathwechoose.com] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/ [https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/] TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/ [https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/] Subscribe to The Path We Choose (TPWC) for conversations on dating psychology, relationships, attraction, emotional intelligence, self improvement, and high-performance mindset.

You’ve Been Programmed Since Birth | Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui

You’ve Been Programmed Since Birth | Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui Are your thoughts and behaviors shaped by subconscious programming you don’t even realize? In this episode, Dr. Sabreena Ghaffar-Siddiqui explains how the mind is conditioned from an early age and how that programming influences beliefs, habits, emotions, and life decisions. The conversation explores why people repeat patterns, how subconscious beliefs are formed, and what it takes to create real change. If you follow content similar to Huberman Lab, The Diary of a CEO, or The Mel Robbins Podcast, or authors like Daniel Kahneman, Brené Brown, James Clear, and Joe Dispenza, this episode connects with ideas around psychology, behavior, and personal growth. In this episode you’ll learn: • What subconscious programming is • How early experiences shape belief systems • Why behavior patterns repeat • How to break negative conditioning • The importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence • How to rewire your thinking for growth • Practical ways to change habits and mindset Chapters: CHAPTERS * 00:00:00 Introduction: Loss, Purpose, and the Path to Fearless Advocacy * 00:01:26 The Path That Chose Me: Identity, Belonging, and Academic Awakening * 00:06:47 Nationalism vs. Cultural Identity: Understanding the Dangerous Line * 00:10:08 The Left-Right Illusion: Exposing the Political Spectrum Facade * 00:18:26 Colonialism, Imperialism, and Settler Colonialism Explained * 00:21:33 Syria, Iran, and the Regime Change Playbook * 00:26:08 The Power of Speaking Up: Why Advocacy Always Matters * 00:36:06 Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling * 00:39:34 Death, Faith, and Fearlessness: The Moment Everything Changed * 00:46:00 Success, Freedom, and Measuring What Truly Matters * 00:52:08 Media Manipulation: Decoding the Narrative You're Fed * 00:56:25 Selective Empathy and Orientalism: Why Some Lives Matter Less * 01:14:59 Zionism Exposed: The Ethno-Religion Lie and Jewish Supremacy * 01:07:06 Consumption as Resistance: Boycotts, BDS, and Decolonizing Your Life * 01:36:50 Dignity Over Life: The Lesson from Palestine 1936 Follow Dr. Sabreena: Website: https://drsabreena.com/ [https://drsabreena.com/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsabreena_gs/ [https://www.instagram.com/drsabreena_gs/] LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/sabreenags [https://ca.linkedin.com/in/sabreenags] Follow Umer Farooque & TPWC: Website: https://thepathwechoose.com [https://thepathwechoose.com] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/ [https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/] TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/ [https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/] Subscribe to The Path We Choose for conversations on psychology, subconscious mind, behavior change, emotional intelligence, and personal growth

Shahrez Hayder on Islam as a System for Life

In this powerful episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Shahrez Hayder to break down a truth most people misunderstand: Feeling stuck is not failure. It’s a test. This conversation dives into why people feel trapped in their careers, relationships, or personal growth journeys—and how these moments are actually shaping a stronger mindset, clearer direction, and deeper resilience. Shahrez shares real insights on overcoming self-doubt, building clarity, and taking action even when life feels uncertain. If you follow conversations from podcasts like The Diary of a CEO, The Tim Ferriss Show, or On Purpose with Jay Shetty, or authors like Brené Brown, James Clear, Mel Robbins, and Simon Sinek—this episode will resonate deeply with you. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why feeling stuck is part of growth • How to overcome self-doubt and overthinking • The mindset shift needed for real personal development • Why challenges are actually life’s tests • How to build mental strength and resilience • Taking action during uncertain times • Turning confusion into clarity and direction Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, professional, or navigating a life transition, this episode gives you practical tools to move forward with purpose. Timestamps: CHAPTERS * 00:00:00 Introduction: Asking Allah for Greatness and Embracing Tests * 00:01:06 The Path That Chose Me: Allah's Path is the Only Way * 00:02:11 From Homelessness to Purpose: My Journey Through Tests * 00:09:35 The Doors of Destiny: Understanding Free Will and Qadar * 00:19:38 Summoning Your Rizq: Identity, Manifestation, and Becoming the Magnet * 00:23:18 The Test of Fame, Ego, and Staying Humble * 00:31:00 Women Are Powerful: The Role of Women in Islam and Society * 00:35:16 Midpoint Break: The Mission of Authentic Storytelling * 00:36:04 The 99 Names of Allah: Inheriting Divine Attributes * 01:03:44 Facing Death and Finding Faith: My Darkest Moments * 01:20:23 The Purpose of Life: Worship Allah and Create More Worshipers * 01:25:47 Unifying the Ummah: Brotherhood, Business, and Breaking Labels * 01:34:25 Closing Reflections: Living with Gratitude and Serving Allah Daily Follow Shahrez Hayder: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/ [https://www.instagram.com/shahrezhayder/] Instagram (Alt): https://instagram.com/shahrez.muslim [https://instagram.com/shahrez.muslim] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahrezhayder/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shahrez.muslim [https://www.youtube.com/@shahrez.muslim] Follow Umer Farooque & The Path We Choose (TPWC): Website: https://thepathwechoose.com [https://thepathwechoose.com] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/ [https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/] TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/ [https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/] Subscribe to The Path We Choose (TPWC) for powerful conversations on self improvement, mindset, personal growth, overcoming challenges, and building a life with direction.