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.
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Episodes

Revolutionising Plastic Surgery in Pakistan | Dr Salman Khan | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep79

This week, we sat down with Pakistan's leading cosmetic, plastic, and hair transplant surgeon, Dr. Muhammad Salman Khan, aka MSK, for a conversation on the growing trend of cosmetic surgery in Pakistan and globally. We discuss the latest trends in the field of plastics and cosmetics and technological advancements. Dr. Salman shares with us his motivations, challenges, and what keeps him going through the tough days. We also discuss the field of medical entrepreneurship and the flaws in Pakistan'...

Apr 09, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 79

Secure Remittances this Ramadan with ACE & Bank Al Habib | Naqqash Hafiz | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep78

With Ramadan ending and Eid drawing closer, Pakistanis living abroad are turning to banks to send money to their loved ones. In this week's episode, we sit down with Naqqash Hafiz, Executive Head of ACE Money Transfer Services, to answer all your remittance-related queries. We discuss the need for a trusted financial service provider, the process behind it, and how ACE Money Transfer, in partnership with Bank Al-Habib, provides the safest option to trust your money with. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podca...

Apr 06, 202446 minEp. 78

The World's View of Pakistan | Sofyan Yusufi | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep77

In this week's episode, we have Sofyan Yusufi, a partner at Deloitte and Senior Advisor at the Atlantic Council, joining us for a discussion on the global image of Pakistan and how the West, especially America, views us. We also discuss the prevailing class system, discrimination, and social hierarchies in Pakistan. Sofyan also shares some harrowing stories from his days in America as a Muslim and a Pakistani shortly after 9/11. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you li...

Apr 01, 20241 hr 22 minEp. 77

The Evolution of Pakistan's Corporate Culture | Ammar Hassan | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep76

In this week's episode, we have Muhammad Ammar Hassan Yousufi, former CMO of Daraz and OLX, joining us. We discuss the corporate culture in Pakistan, its flaws, strengths, and evolution over the years, and how Gen-Z fits into it. He discusses approaches that can help build a better work environment for the younger generation. Towards the end, Ammar also touches upon the subject of Pakistani startup culture and why it hasn't been able to pick up pace. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spoti...

Mar 29, 202447 minEp. 77

How Can Illegal Migrants Return to Pakistan? | Faisal Shabir | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep75

Over recent years, Pakistan has seen a rise in irregular migrations, especially towards Europe. In this week's episode, Faisal Shabir, Technical Advisor for Counselling & Cooperation at GIZ, talks to us about the growing trend of irregular migrations and its potential threats. We try to uncover the reasons that force people to take this perilous route. Faisal also provides insights on assistance for those wishing to return to Pakistan and the reform measures in place to support them. Search ...

Mar 27, 202429 minEp. 75

A Story of Failures, Lessons, Success & Finding Your 'Why' | Shayan Mahmud | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep74

In this episode, we have Shayan Mahmud, the CEO and founder of ProPakistani, joining us. We explore Shayan's journey, from his experiences in the UK and China to how they've influenced his life. We also compare the content creation industries of Karachi and Islamabad and touch upon topics like success, learning from failures, and the role of luck in seizing opportunities and discovering one's purpose. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcast...

Mar 20, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 74

The Story of a Pakistani-American Businessman | Tanweer Ahmed | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep73

Is Pakistan an ideal country to launch a business? Will corruption and mismanagement be the reasons for our downfall? Our guest this week, Pakistani-American businessman and philanthropist Tanweer Ahmed, sat down for a conversation to discuss Pakistan's business ecosystem and scope for entrepreneurship. He also discusses the stark differences between the Pakistani and Indian diasporas and their economic strengths. Tanweer Ahmed also shares his hopes and advice for the future of Pakistan. Search ...

Mar 20, 202449 minEp. 73

A Conversation on Women Empowerment, Corporate Leadership & Gen-Z | LIPTON | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep72

TCM's Talha Ahad sat down with the leading ladies at Lipton Pakistan for a discussion on women's empowerment and to gauge their perspective on being a woman and leader in the corporate world. We also discuss the ever-evolving landscape and the opportunities for Gen-Z and some tips on how they can make the best use of resources available to them. The guests include Farheen Salman, President of BSPAN and GM Pakistan at Lipton Teas and Infusions; Mehwish Akif, People and Organisation Lead at BSPAN;...

Mar 20, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 72

Empowering Women Through Financial Inclusion | Rifah Qadri | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep71

For this Women's Day, we sat down with Rifah Qadri, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communication at Easypaisa, to discuss women's empowerment through financial inclusion and the need for financial independence. We also talked about women in corporate roles and how they can drive companies to reach new heights of success. Rifah also shared some insights to help younger women who are just starting their careers. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to yo...

Mar 09, 202449 minEp. 72

From a 'Taat' School to British Royal Academy | Admiral (R) Asif Sandila | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep70

In this week's episode, Admiral (Retd) Asif Sandila, founder of the Moawin Foundation, joins us for a discussion on the golden days of Pakistan, the war of '71, and the role of the Navy. We also get to listen to some interesting stories from his days in the Naval Academy, and his life post-retirement as an educationist, and the inception and vision behind the Moawin Foundation. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahad...

Mar 09, 20241 hr 16 minEp. 70

Islamic Jurisprudence, Spiritual Healing, & Social Welfare | Bashir Ahmed Farooq Qadri | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep69

In this week's episode, we're joined by Maulana Bashir Ahmed Farooq Qadri, a revered religious scholar, spiritual healer, and social worker. Our conversation covers a range of topics, including religious beliefs, the role of spiritual healing within Islam, and the controversial practices associated with black magic. Maulana Bashir also shares the story behind the inception of his NGO, Saylani Welfare Trust Official, and explains how the organization successfully secures billions in donations ann...

Mar 06, 202458 minEp. 67

Establishment's Role in IK's Ouster, Economic Future & PDM 2.0 | Miftah Ismail | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep68

Was the establishment really behind Imran Khan's ouster? Is the future of this new government bleak? Talha Ahad sat down with the former finance minister Miftah Ismail to find answers to the public's concerns amidst the ongoing economic turmoil. We discuss the future of Pakistan under what seems to be PDM 2.0, the role of the establishment in governance, and possible solutions for Pakistan. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaah...

Mar 02, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 68

Judiciary, Military & the Men Behind Pakistan's Derailing Democracy | Faisal Vawda | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep67

Who killed Arshad Sharif? What was behind Imran Khan's vote of no confidence (VONC) and the attack on him? Talha Ahad sat down for an exclusive conversation with former Senator Faisal Vawda to discuss the role of the military establishment in democracy, the judiciary, and the massive rigging. We also discuss his political journey with Imran Khan and what he believes caused his downfall from the corridors of power. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to...

Feb 23, 20241 hr 26 minEp. 67

A Conversation on Democracy, Bureaucracy, Baloch Issue & Pakistan's Fate | Anwaar Kakar | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep66

In this exclusive podcast, Talha Ahad sat with the Caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan, Anwaar ul Haq Kakar, just weeks before his premiership ends to discuss his tenure and the future of democracy in Pakistan. We also discuss the Balochistan issue, the Afghan problem, and the role of the establishment and bureaucracy. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Feb 16, 20241 hr 12 minEp. 66

A Conversation on Family Dynasties, the Establishment, & Media Bias | Siraj ul Haq | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep65

In this exclusive podcast with TCM former senator and Ameer of Jamat-e-Islami, Siraj ul Haq, sat down with Talha Ahad to discuss the voting dynamics in Pakistan, disturbances to the electoral process, the involvement of the establishment, and media bias. We also discuss transgender rights and Jamat-e-Islami's manifesto for 2024. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Feb 07, 202457 minEp. 65

A Conversation with Shehbaz Sharif on Dynastic Politics & Establishment | Shehbaz Sharif | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep64

Join Talha Ahad, Farrukh Warraich, and Shayan Mahmud in a special podcast featuring an exclusive conversation with the former Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif. They delve into politics, the influence of families in governance, and the role of the establishment, and much more. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Feb 03, 202448 minEp. 66

A Conversation on Politics, Elections, Trauma, & Mental Health | Bilawal Bhutto | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep63

In his first-ever podcast with TCM, former Foreign Minister of Pakistan and Chairperson of the Pakistan People's Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, goes in-depth about his political journey, the role of the establishment, and dynastic politics. He also delves beyond the political aspects of his life, sharing with us his struggles to cope with loss after the assassination of his mother and how he handles trauma. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your p...

Feb 03, 20241 hr 22 minEp. 63

Balochistan of the 90s, Transgender Rights & Social Activism | Uzma Yaqoob | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep61

This week's episode features Uzma Yaqoob, a dedicated human rights activist focusing on uplifting marginalized groups, particularly the transgender community. As the founder of Forum for Dignity Initiatives, a hub for research and advocacy, Uzma joins us to explore the policies affecting these communities and the crucial role of activism in shaping political agendas. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast...

Jan 20, 20241 hr 15 minEp. 61

Exploring the Advertising Industry of Pakistan | Ahmed Kapadia | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep60

Our guest this week, Ahmed Kapadia, is the CEO and founder of Synergy Group, an industry leader in Pakistan's advertising landscape. We discuss the evolving landscape of marketing and advertising and how brands should position themselves in the digital age. Ahmed also shares some insights on the power of advertising and how political parties leverage this tool. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast...

Jan 15, 20241 hr 12 minEp. 60

Inside the Crypto World With Meiraj Haq | Meiraj Haq | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep59

Our guest this week, Meiraj Haq, is not just a pro player in the crypto trade market, but he has also had a dynamic career path spanning public administration, filmmaking, and acting. In this episode, he shares his journey of entering the world of cryptocurrency and making millions. We also learn some industry insights, and Meiraj offers some tips for beginners. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast...

Jan 11, 20241 hr 11 minEp. 59

The Life Story of Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan | Sardar Tanveer Ilyas | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep58

In this week's episode our guest Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan, the former PM of Kashmir and tycoon best known for his project 'Centaurs Mall'. We discuss Pakistan's political landscape and the world of real estate and construction. As the former PM of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Tanveer Ilyas also shares his insights on the Kashmir issue and the global standing of the matter. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast...

Jan 04, 20241 hr 18 minEp. 58

The Life Story of Hina Pervaiz Butt | Hina Pervaiz Butt | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep57

Our guest this week is Hina Pervaiz Butt, who started her professional journey with entrepreneurship but later ventured into politics. In this episode, we discuss her journey, shedding light on her work towards issue-driven politics and efforts towards policies that matter. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Dec 27, 202334 minEp. 57

How is Rehan Allahwalla Revolutionizing Mentorship in Pakistan? | Rehan Allahwala | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep56

Our guest this week, Rehan Allahwalla, comes from an entrepreneurial family, and his work showcases the sharp business acumen he has inherited. In this conversation, we delve into his numerous ventures and projects that are close to his heart. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Dec 21, 20231 hr 9 minEp. 56

The Story of Becoming Lyari's Mother | Part 02 | Sabina Khatri | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep55

In part 02 of our conversation with social activist and founder of Kiran Foundation, Sabina Khatri, we delve into the story behind the inception of Kiran Foundation, Sabina's work in childhood trauma counseling, and her close association with the people, especially the children of Lyari. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Dec 12, 202348 minEp. 55

The Story of Becoming Lyari's Mother | Part 01 | Sabina Khatri | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep55

This week, our guest is the coveted social worker, Sabina Khatri. With numerous titles under her belt, she is perhaps best known as the 'Mother of Lyari' for her commitment to the social and emotional well-being of Lyari's children, who, for years, were subjected to trauma and violence. Discover how she worked day and night to ensure a better future for the underprivileged and what led to the establishment of her NGO, Kiran Foundation. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever...

Dec 04, 202358 minEp. 55

The Men Behind Pakistan's First Silicon Village | Abid Cheema | Shahrukh Malik | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep54

Our guests on this week's episode are Abid Kabir Cheema, CEO of Silicon Village, and Shahrukh Malik, CEO of Molecule. We get insights on their upcoming projects the Silicon Village, Pakistan's first and largest tech hub, and Capital Smart City, a smart housing society. We also discuss the Pakistani start-up ecosystem and the possible solutions to help the entrepreneurial youth. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahad...

Nov 27, 202348 minEp. 54

90s Karachi, Lyari Gangs, & Reporting From the Heart of Conflict | Faizullah Khan | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep53

Our guest this week is the senior journalist and reporter Faizullah Khan. Joining the news industry at the peak of its revival, Faizullah has firsthand witnessed the rise and fall of major political parties, gangs, and militant groups. He also shares with us his insights on regional politics and affairs. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Nov 24, 20231 hr 2 minEp. 50

The Lifestory of Pakistan's Leading Real Estate Developer | Imtiaz Rafi Butt | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep52

This week, we have Imtiaz Rafi Butt, the founder of Rafi Group and Jinnah Rafi Foundation, and Pakistan's prominent real estate developer, as our guest. We engage in a conversation with him covering topics such as real estate, business, and wealth creation. Mr. Butt generously imparts valuable life lessons based on his own experiences and provides his expert insights into the financial future of Pakistan. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your pod...

Nov 18, 20231 hr 7 minEp. 52

The American Who Made Pakistan His Home | Todd Shea | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep51

Our guest on this week's episode is Todd Shea, the founder of Comprehensive Disaster Response Pakistan. Todd shares his battle with addiction and his experience in the US Marine Corps. As an eyewitness to the 9/11 attacks, Todd shares how he watched the horrors unfold before his eyes. He also shares the events that brought him to Pakistan and what caused him to stay. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast...

Nov 08, 20232 hr 24 minEp. 51

Bouncing Back From Failures - The Success Story of Johnny & Jugnu | Gohar Iqbal | Talha Ahad Podcast | Ep50

Joining us this week is Gohar Iqbal, the co-founder and managing partner of Johnny & Jugnu. With a marketing degree to support his journey, Gohar shares with us how he and his friends managed to establish one of Lahore's most famous burger joints after years of setbacks and failures. He also shares his plans to revolutionize Pakistan's fast food scene by serving burgers that cater to the Pakistani taste palate. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen t...

Oct 28, 20231 hr 11 minEp. 50
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