Talha Ahad Podcast - podcast cover

Talha Ahad Podcast

Welcome to Talha Ahad Podcast. It was journalism that brought me back to Islamabad from London in 2016. Over the last 6 years I have been privileged enough to meet with lots of interesting people from former PM Imran Khan, to Guantanamo Bay prisoners, to industry leaders, politicians, creatives and all kinds of people in between. The stories they shared off-screen were far more fascinating than the ones they told on screen. I am Talha Ahad, an entrepreneur, journalist and documentary filmmaker. I am going on a journey to explore who people really are beyond the face they show to the world.
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

The Story of Hustle, Hardwork & Success | Sheikh Sajawal | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep49

In this episode, the renowned digital marketing specialist Sheikh Sajawal joins us for an interesting conversation on the digital economy, marketing, and online earning. He also shares with us anecdotes from his days of struggle and the lessons he learned along the way providing some interesting tips to the youth. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Oct 26, 20231 hr 1 minEp. 49

The Story of Shahbaz Taseer's Kidnapping and Captivity | Shahbaz Taseer | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep48

Shortly after his father's assassination, Shahbaz Taseer was kidnapped in Lahore and spent the next four years in captivity. In this exclusive interview, he shares the details of his time in Afghanistan's heavily guarded prisons and caves and shares details of how the militant-run kidnapping networks operate. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Oct 24, 20232 hr 39 minEp. 48

Tackling Tumours, Navigating Careers, & Redefining Feminism | Aisha Sarwari | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep47

In this week's episode, we sit down with Aisha Sarwari, Director of Public Affairs and Comms at Coca-Cola and author of 'Hard Tantrums and Brain Tumours.' She shares her life journey from Uganda and Kenya to America and back to Pakistan. She also shares with us the roller coaster of emotions she experienced after her husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor, not once but twice. Aisha also talks about feminism, Aurat March in Pakistan, and offers a message to Pakistani girls. Search ‘Talha Ahad P...

Oct 06, 20231 hr 16 minEp. 47

Digital Media, Politics, and the Life Story of Muzamil Hasan | Muzamil Hasan | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep46

In this week's episode with content creator and podcaster Muzamil Hasan, we discuss in detail content creation, podcasts, and digital media. We also delve into politics, economy, and mental health. Muzamil also gives us an insight into his life in UAE and his future plans. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Sep 29, 20231 hr 29 minEp. 46

Extremism, Militancy, and the Story of a Conflict Reporter | Ihsanullah Tipu | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep45

In this exclusive podcast with journalist and reporter Ihsanullah Tipu, we discuss the rise of various new and old terrorist outfits and delve into the recent surge in militant activities by TTP. We also explore the Afghan Jihad and the subsequent fall of Kabul, examining how these events may shape the future of the region in terms of security and stability. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast...

Sep 22, 20231 hr 19 minEp. 45

What Went Wrong With Pakistan's Entertainment Industry? | Part 02 | Jamshed Raza (Jami) | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep44

In continuation of the exclusive podcast with Jami, in this second part, we explore film, TV, and the world of advertising and the downward spiral of Pakistan's entertainment industry. Jami also opens up about his battle with mental health issues and his greatest regrets in life. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Sep 20, 20231 hr 10 minEp. 44

Why Was Jami Isolated After His "MeToo" Revelation? | Part 01 | Jamshed Raza (Jami) | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep44

In this exclusive interview, following nearly four years since his #MeToo revelation against a media mogul, the acclaimed filmmaker, and director. Jami delves into the scandal and discusses for the first time the challenges he faced in the aftermath of breaking his silence. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Sep 15, 20231 hr 7 minEp. 44

Future of Education in the Digital Age | Nassir Kasuri | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep43

My guest for this episode is Nassir Kasuri, an education visionary and CEO of Beaconhouse International College and Beacon Energy Limited. We discuss the impact of AI and digitization on education and Beaconhouse Group's 'Homebridge' initiative for remote international qualifications. Nassir also shares insight into the Single National Curriculum and helps us understand where Pakistan's education system is lacking. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen t...

Sep 08, 202358 minEp. 43

How Is This Pak-American Businesswoman Revolutionizing Tech for Women? | Saima Ali | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep42

My guest this week is Saima Ali, founder and CEO of Revsoft. With a Harvard degree to back her, Saima has stirred up a revolution in the IT sector with her company, 'Revsoft'. We discuss the gender gap in the IT sector and Saima shares her plans of how she plans to address these gaps. We also discuss the potential of tech outsourcing in Pakistan and the future of Pakistan's tech industry. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad...

Sep 01, 202339 minEp. 42

From Doctor to Entrepreneur - Story of a Pakistani Startup | Dr. Hamza Tauqeer | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep41

My guest on this week's episode is Dr. Hamza Tauqeer, the founder and CEO of Aesthetics Lab and Tibbi Inc. Hamza shares with us his entrepreneurial journey in the field of healthcare and medical aesthetics. We also discuss Pakistan's startup ecosystem and the problems it is facing due to the current unstable socio-political environment of Pakistan. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast...

Aug 25, 202352 minEp. 41

State, Diplomacy & Pakistan's Foreign Affairs | Shamshad Ahmad | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep40

In this week's episode, our guest and former foreign secretary of Pakistan, Mr. Shamshad Ahmad, takes us back to the days of partition and Pakistan's formative years. He shares stories from his diplomatic missions around the world, including a significant encounter with Mullah Omar. Mr. Shamshad also articulates his perspective on Pakistan's policies towards Israel and provides insight into his thoughts on the future of democracy in the country. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, o...

Aug 18, 20231 hr 24 minEp. 40

The Overlapping of Culture & Religion in Pakistan | Sabookh Syed | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep39

In this week's episode, I'm joined by, Sabookh Syed, a seasoned journalist and reporter. With nearly two decades of experience in reporting on religious and political matters, Sabookh shares his perspective on Pakistan's religious and societal state, as well as the blurred lines between cultural and religious values. We also delve into journalism's current state in Pakistan and the future of news. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #...

Aug 11, 20231 hr 8 minEp. 39

Meet The First Female Captain of Pakistan's Tent Pegging Team | Arooj Kayani | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep38

In this episode, I am joined by Arooj Kayani, the first female captain of Pakistan's tent-pegging team. Arooj shares with us her journey to the forefront of horse riding. We also discuss her spiritual path towards God, and she tells us how horse riding helped her build a stronger connection with her faith. Arooj is also a professional in the field of early education and shares her insights from working closely with children. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like t...

Aug 04, 20231 hr 17 minEp. 38

9th May, JKT-Aleem Saga, Buzdar Story, & PTI-Establishment Future | Aamer Kiani | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep37

In this week's exclusive episode, my guest is Aamer Kiani, former PTI secretary-general, and a long-time friend of Imran Khan. He provides us with an insider's account of the 9th May events. We delve into PTI's three-decade journey, seeking to understand why Khan distanced himself from close companions and examining other decisions he made, including the controversial appointment of Buzdar. Aamer Kiani also offers his insights on what led to the downfall of the establishment-Imran relations. Sea...

Jul 27, 20231 hr 12 minEp. 37

Karachi's Ethnic Heritage, Creative Journey & Karachi Vynz | Daniyal Sheikh | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep36

In this week's episode, I am joined by content creator, and the founder of Karachi Vynz, Daniyal Sheikh. We delve into Pakistan's growing digital content creation industry. Daniyal shares insights into Karachi's diverse ethnicities and its history. We discuss centrism and identity crisis. Daniyal also opens up about the struggle that went into Karachi Vynz. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Jul 25, 202358 minEp. 36

Backdrop of 9th May, Jail Time Across Pakistan & The Future of PTI | Asad Umar | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep35

In this week's exclusive episode, I am joined by Asad Umer, former Secretary General and senior leader of PTI. We delve into Asad Umer's journey from entering the realm of politics in 2012 to the pivotal events of 9th May and the subsequent string of arrests. Asad Umer also addresses some frequently asked questions and concerns regarding the PTI-Establishment and the future prospects of his political party. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your p...

Jul 20, 202355 minEp. 35

From Working at a Shop to Building Pakistan’s Nuclear Bomb - The Journey of Dr. Afzal Khan | Dr Afzal Khan | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep34

In this episode, my guest is a revered nuclear scientist and close aide of Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, Dr. Afzal Khan. Dr. Afzal shares his witness account of the 1947 partition horrors as a 5-year-old. We also delve into his journey of traveling to America to pursue higher studies and how that journey eventually landed him in the heart of Pakistan's nuclear program, Project 706. Dr. Afzal also shares with us his disappointment in the state's treatment of A.Q. Khan and his hopes for Pakistan. Search ...

Jul 14, 20231 hr 39 minEp. 34

Climate Change Awareness, Adaptive Strategies and Risk Management | Bilal Anwar | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep33

In this episode with my guest Bilal Anwar, CEO of NDRMF, we talk about climate change which is still an enduring issue that poses more threats to Pakistan than anything else. Bilal Anwar talks about how lack of awareness, public disinterest, and ineffective coping mechanisms make Pakistan more vulnerable to economic and humanitarian crises. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Jul 07, 202346 minEp. 33

Peshawar's Dark Past, Media, Establishment, and Subcontinent's Religious History | Shafaat Ali | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep32

In this episode, I am joined by comedian and satirist Syed Shafaat Ali who takes us through Peshawar's rough past with terrorism, his personal journey in the media industry, and his experience with various media houses. Shafaat also shares his extensive knowledge of the Subcontinent's vibrant religious history and the untapped potential of religious tourism in Pakistan. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast...

Jul 01, 20231 hr 25 minEp. 32

Pakistan's Media, Regressive Journalism, World History, and Politics | Zarrar Khuhro | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep31

In this episode, I am joined by a special guest, Zarrar Khuhro, an esteemed journalist, columnist, and talk show host. Together, we delve into discussions on Pakistan's media landscape, regressive journalism, politics, and democracy. The conversation also steers toward world history. Drawing from his extensive experience, Zarrar provides invaluable insights and shares his perspective on the future of journalism. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to y...

Jun 23, 20231 hr 2 minEp. 31

Religion, Wisdom, Charity, and Dealing with Worldly Affairs | Omar Badi-uz-Zaman | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 30

In between traveling, learning, and handling his family's charity foundation, Omar Zaman shares how he strives to find a balance between his faith and worldly affairs. He also clears common misunderstandings about the sunnah of Qurbani on Eid ul Azha. Omar also shares insights into the impactful work of his organization, Sab Saath, which is dedicated to revolutionizing charitable initiatives in Pakistan and globally. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen...

Jun 17, 20231 hr 10 minEp. 30

Karachi's Dark Side, Pakistani Politics, and Distorted History | Shehzad Ghias | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 29

In this episode, I sat down with Shehzad Ghias the host of The Pakistan Experience. We discuss his journey of growing up in Karachi amidst the violence of the 90s and 2000s. He shares his unique perspective on elite ignorance, the distortion of history, and politics. We also delve into topics such as culture, resilience, and the significance of healthy debate. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahadpodcast

Jun 17, 20231 hr 15 minEp. 29

Who Is Responsible for the 9th May Incident and Its Consequences? | Zubair Umer | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 28

If Imran Khan's verbal attack on Gen Bajwa was wrong, then how is Maryam Nawaz's commentary on Chief Justice Bandial justified? In this episode, I sat down with the Former Governor and PMLN leader Zubair Umer, and we delved into the depths of the 9th May Incident and talked about Pakistan's political turmoil. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahadpodcast

Jun 17, 20231 hr 10 minEp. 28

Long-term Investment, Real Estate in Pakistan & Insight into DAO Proptech | Owais Barlas | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 27

Delved deep into the conversation with Owais Barlas, Co-founder & Chief Commercial Officer at Dao PropTech. We discovered how this innovative technology is transforming the real estate industry and unlocking new possibilities for investors. We unlocked the secrets of long-term investments and got to know the realities behind the booming real estate industry of Pakistan. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahadpodcast...

Jun 17, 20231 hr 9 minEp. 28

Where is Pakistani Startups Standing Compare to Sillicon Valley? | Arzish Azam | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 25

In this episode, I sit down with Arzish Azam, an entrepreneur, to explore the world of startups in Pakistan and its standing compared to Silicon Valley. Arzish shares his personal journey of starting his first business and offers insights into how the startup business model works. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahadpodcast

Jun 17, 20231 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 25

How Zindigi is Transforming Pakistan’s Digital Financial Landscape? | Noman Azhar | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 26

In this week episode, I sat down with Noman Azhar, Chief Officer of Zindigi - Powered by JS Bank, to delve into the the world of financial investments in Pakistan. Discover the insights into Pakistani people's understanding of investment, gain a deeper understanding of the mindset of Gen Z, and explore the exciting future of cashless payments. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahadpodcast

May 25, 202353 minSeason 1Ep. 27

Role of Establishment, JKT and Aleem Khan | Imran Khan | Talha Ahad Podcast

Chairman PTI Imran Khan has been arrested by rangers from the Islamabad High Court in relation to the Al-Qadir NAB case. In light of these events, I had a discussion with Ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan in his first-ever podcast in May 2022. After his ousting, He talks about who backstabbed him, what went wrong with the establishment, and how friends became foes. Find all the answers in conversation with Former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever ...

May 19, 202322 minSeason 1Ep. 26

Meet the Man Behind Pakistan's Biggest Advertising Media Empire | Raihan Ali | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 24

In this exclusive episode, my guest is Raihan Ali Merchant, the CEO of Z2C and the founder of Brainchild Communication, runs one of the biggest advertising groups in the country. We discussed how he saved Coke Studio, built the largest advertising media empire in Pakistan, and his investments in multiple companies, including an influencer management company and an OTT platform. Raihan also talked about Z2C Limited's cutting-edge solutions, such as Brainchild Communications Pakistan, Walee, and L...

Apr 28, 20231 hr 24 minSeason 1Ep. 24

How can Pakistan Pay off its Debts through Real Estate? | Shafiq Akbar | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 23

An insight into easing Pakistan's economic woes and how can real estate contribute to paying off Pakistan's debts? In this episode of Talha Ahad Podcast, my guest is the Chairman of Imarat group, Shafiq Akbar who explains how the real estate sector can be Pakistan's biggest growth driver. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahadpodcast

Apr 27, 20231 hr 24 minSeason 1Ep. 23

MQM, Establishment and Inside story of Karachi | Mustafa Kamal | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep 22

In this episode, my guest is Mustafa Kamal, a former mayor of Karachi and founder of the Pak Sarzameen Party. From his rise to power to his disillusionment with the MQM and rejoining MQM Pakistan, we discussed the fall of Altaf Hussain, the missing MQM party workers, and the role of the establishment in Karachi. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahadpodcast

Apr 15, 202353 minSeason 1Ep. 22
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android