Best Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival Podcasts (2025)

1
Becoming the First Female Aircraft Engineer in the UAE 29:40

5d ago29:40

29:40

Meet Suaad Al Shamsi, the UAE’s first female aircraft engineer. In this episode, she shares how a childhood fascination with airplanes turned into a groundbreaking career. From overcoming stereotypes in a male-dominated industry to mentoring young women in aviation and STEM, Suaad reflects on the courage, clarity, and resilience it takes to lead wi…

1
How to Turn Culture into Content 14:51

7d ago14:51

14:51

How did FREEJ — a show that redefined animation in the Arab world and gave a voice to Emirati identity — become one of the region’s most iconic cultural creations? In this episode, Mohammed Saeed Harib, creator of FREEJ, SIRAJ, and director of Rashid & Rajab, shares his journey from sketching characters in university to launching Lammtara, the stud…

1
How to Scale a Brand from the Ground Up 29:01

12d ago29:01

29:01

What does it take to go from earning AED 800 as a barista to becoming the founder of a specialty coffee empire? ☕ Maria Eduarda Becker Pavani, founder of Tres Marias Coffee Company, shares her inspiring journey of entrepreneurship, resilience, and innovation. 🎧 Whether you're a coffee lover, entrepreneur, or dreamer — this episode will move you. 🔗 …

1
How to Integrate AI into Everyday Products 26:02

14d ago26:02

26:02

How does a regional super app evolve into an everything app — and what does that mean for AI, data, and product design? In this episode, Mohamad Charafeddine shares the inside story of Careem’s next chapter: how they’re building for convenience, simplifying experiences, and integrating AI with purpose. 🎧 This episode was produced in partnership wit…

1
Building a Music Brand Without a Label 20:22

19d ago20:22

20:22

In this episode of SEF Backstage Pass Podcast — in partnership with Poddster — Canadian band Music Travel Love share their story of independence, passion, and building a global community through heartfelt music. From walking away from major labels to building a lifestyle rooted in music, travel, and love, this conversation is packed with wisdom for…

1
It’s Time to Rethink Education 26:34

21d ago26:34

26:34

Traditional education was designed for factory workers — not for a world shaped by AI. In this episode, Dr Abdul Quddus Mohammed shares how Thrive AI is helping Gen Z build mindset, resilience, and purpose in an era of rapid change. 🎧 This episode was produced in partnership with Poddster. 📍 Watch the full episode and let us know your thoughts in t…

1
Building F&B Brands with Soul 28:10

26d ago28:10

28:10

In this episode of SEF Backstage Pass, we dive into the journey of Hadil El Khatib, founder of The Broth Lab, The Roost Rotisserie, and Catcha Matcha. Hadil opens up about how she built three purpose-driven F&B brands, the deep personal motivations behind each, and the emotional (and financial) realities of being a founder. From gut health to commu…

1
How Growth Tastes with House of Pops 31:40

28d ago31:40

31:40

In this episode of SEF Backstage Pass, we sit down with Mazen Kanaan, the CEO and co-founder of House of Pops — the region’s standout clean-label popsicle brand. Mazen opens up about how they launched the brand with one cart, stayed true to their sustainability values, and built a scalable business with purpose at its core. From the early pivots an…

1
شغف تحوّل لإرث 23:09

1M ago23:09

23:09

في هذه الحلقة من SEF Backstage Pass، نلتقي بالمصمم الإماراتي الرائد هشام المظلوم، ونتعمّق معه في رحلته في عالم التصميم، وقصة بناء مشروع ديواني الذي دمج فيه فن الخط العربي مع العمارة المعاصرة. يتحدث هشام عن التحديات، البدايات، والدروس التي تعلّمها خلال تصميم منزل تحوّل إلى أيقونة معمارية حصدت جوائز عالمية، وكيف يمكن للفن أن يكون مهنة، وصوت ثقافي عال…

1
Reinventing Fuel Retail with Innovation 35:59

1M ago35:59

35:59

🎧 From launching the world’s first naming rights fuel station to revolutionizing loyalty in fuel retail—Ali Bin Zayed shares how Emarat is leading innovation while staying rooted in community impact. 🎙️ In partnership with Poddster. #AliBinZayed #SEF2025 #SEFBackstagePass #SEFPodcast #VisionaryLeadership #UAEEntrepreneurs #MENAInnovation #FounderSt…

1
The Real Reason VCs Say No 38:20

1M ago38:20

38:20

🎧 From building a bridge between startup founders and investors to championing data access and radical honesty—Erika Masako Welch shares how Lucidity Insights is transforming how startups in emerging markets grow, pitch, and lead with purpose. 🎙️ This episode was produced in partnership with Poddster. #SEFBackstagePass #LucidityInsights #StartupFun…

1
من عدسة المصوّر إلى ريادة الثقافة 22:19

1M ago22:19

22:19

كيف ممكن للفن يكون وسيلة لريادة الأعمال؟ وكيف تتحول العدسة والخط العربي إلى أدوات لحفظ الإرث وصناعة المستقبل؟ في هذه الحلقة الملهمة، ينضم إلينا الفنان والمصور والخطاط عبدالله الأستاذ ليروي كيف استطاع أن يوثّق التغير العمراني والثقافي في خورفكان بعدسة الكاميرا، ويبتكر أساليب فنية معاصرة تمزج بين الخط العربي والتصوير. ويشاركنا برؤيته حول كيف يمكن للف…

1
كيف تكسر الحواجز في صناعة الملاحة 23:25

2M ago23:25

23:25

في هذه الحلقة الملهمة من بودكاست SEF Backstage Pass، نستضيف كابتن سحر راستي – مؤسسة والرئيس التنفيذي لـ SJR GROUP وأول قبطانة إماراتية 🇦🇪 من كسر الصور النمطية، إلى قيادة السفن، وتأسيس شركة متخصصة بالمجال البحري… رحلة استثنائية مليئة بالشغف والإصرار. 📍 هذه الحلقة من بودكاست SEF Backstage Pass، بالتعاون مع Poddster. 🎧 تابعوا القصة الكاملة على يوتيوب …

1
Inside the Future of Islamic Finance 26:19

2M ago26:19

26:19

The Future of Crypto in the Gulf — with H.E. Mohammed Al Hakim In this episode of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, H.E. Mohammed Al Hakim — President of Crypto.com for the GCC and Turkey — shares his journey, insights into the future of crypto, and what’s next for blockchain innovation in the region. Tune in for valuable takeaways on leadership, tec…

1
The Secrets to Building a Global Bakery Brand 29:03

2M ago29:03

29:03

How do you build a brand from scratch—and turn it into a global name in just two years? In this inspiring episode of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, Brooke Bellamy, founder of Brookie, shares how she built her dessert brand with bold vision, relentless drive, and a deep love for baking. From personal turning points to plans for expansion in the UAE…

1
What Happens When You Say Yes To Life 39:54

2M ago39:54

39:54

Step behind the scenes at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival with Ammar Kandil, Co-founder of YES Theory. In this episode, Ammar shares the untold story of how growing up in a "shell of a dream" inspired him to build a thousand-year project rooted in discomfort, community, and authentic human connection. From his early days in Sadat City, Egypt,…

1
The High-Performance Mindset 43:05

2M ago43:05

43:05

What if everything you believed about motivation and confidence was wrong? In this powerful conversation, performance strategist and global keynote speaker Shade Zahrai breaks down the psychology behind high performance—why confidence comes after action, how to train your discipline muscle, and the mindset shifts that top performers use to stay con…

1
Building StarzPlay & Learning As CEO 16:23

2M ago16:23

16:23

From Silicon Valley to StarzPlay. Maaz Sheikh shares how he left a stable career at 45 to build the MENA region’s top streaming platform. A journey fueled by purpose, family legacy, and learning on the job as a first-time CEO. 🎧 Dive into the full conversation on our podcast — available now on YouTube & your favorite platforms. Brought to you by th…

1
Our Existence Is Resistance 8:02

2M ago8:02

8:02

Why do Palestinians keep dancing, creating, and giving birth—amid war and destruction? In this moving episode of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, we sit down with journalist and writer Plestia Alaqad, who courageously reported from Gaza during the war. 📲 Catch the full episode now and hit subscribe to hear more powerful stories from the visionaries …

1
اكتشف سر الفلاح 21:04

2M ago21:04

21:04

في هذه الحلقة العميقة من بودكاست SEF Backstage Pass، يستضيف البودكاست الدكتور أحمد عمارة، استشاري الصحة النفسية والطاقة الحيوية، ليفكك معنا أكبر الأكاذيب التي تربينا عليها: أن السعادة هي الهدف، وأن الوظيفة هي الغاية. من الفرق بين المتعة والسعادة، إلى كيف نكتشف رسالتنا الحقيقية في الحياة، يأخذنا د. عمارة في رحلة من الوعي والإلهام، يتحدث فيها أيضاً ع…

1
The Secrets to Building a Beauty Empire 21:16

2M ago21:16

21:16

In this powerful conversation, Kuwaiti influencer and entrepreneur Noha Nabil shares her journey from TV host to social media pioneer to founder of Noha Nabil Beauty—a brand inspired by the richness of Arab identity. 📲 Watch the full episode now and subscribe for more stories from visionary leaders shaping the future. This episode is part of the SE…

1
The Woman Behind the UAE’s Music Rise 30:58

2M ago30:58

30:58

How does a classically trained harpist go from performing in hotel lobbies to founding one of the region’s most influential entertainment agencies? In this inspiring episode, Shelley Frost—Founder & Director of The Fridge—shares her 27-year journey in the UAE. From creating opportunities where none existed, to reshaping the cultural and musical lan…

1
Exploring Humanity, Consciousness & Purpose 19:01

3M ago19:01

19:01

What makes us human? Is AI conscious? Will machines ever feel emotions? In this mind-expanding conversation, Mo Gawdat—author, tech visionary, and former Chief Business Officer at Google X—dives deep into some of the biggest questions of our time. From exploring the true meaning of consciousness and life, to discussing whether AI could develop emot…

1
Building a Legacy Beyond Tennis 17:02

3M ago17:02

17:02

From chasing a childhood dream to becoming a Grand Slam champion, Sania Mirza shares her journey of resilience, reinvention, and finding purpose beyond the court. In this inspiring episode, she opens up about the sacrifices behind the wins, what drives her after retirement, and why dreaming big is just the beginning. 📲 Listen, get inspired, and let…

1
Hamza Namira: Finding Peace Through Music 12:18

3M ago12:18

12:18

انضموا إلينا في هذه الحلقة الخاصة مع الفنان المصري المحبوب حمزة نمرة، ضمن مهرجان الشارقة لريادة الأعمال 2025. يتحدث حمزة بكل صدق عن رحلته الشخصية مع القلق، وكيف كانت الموسيقى وسيلته للتعبير والعلاج، ولماذا يبقى الفن هو اللغة العالمية للتواصل بين البشر. 🎧 شاهدوا الحلقة الآن ولا تنسوا الاشتراك لمزيد من القصص الملهمة من بودكاست SEF Backstage Pass. زور…

1
From Home Kitchen to 10 Branches with Hind Al Mulla 26:52

3M ago26:52

26:52

From her home kitchen to 10 thriving locations (and counting!) In this inspiring conversation, Hind Almulla, Founder of Home Bakery, shares how she turned her passion into a brand loved across the region — starting with the accidental creation of her signature Chewy Melt Cookie. She opens up about staying true to her vision, overcoming backlash, an…

1
The Champion Mindset with Thierry Henry 22:36

3M ago22:36

22:36

The SEF Backstage Pass Podcast hosts Thierry Henry like you’ve never seen him before. In this raw and honest conversation at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2025, the football legend opened up about leadership, ego, investing in yourself, and adapting to a new generation—on and off the pitch. 🎙️ This is the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast — where stor…

1
⁠Brisket, Business & Big Dreams: The Mr. Brisket Story 30:37

5M ago30:37

30:37

From a JLT balcony to UAE’s top brisket spot! Ahmed & Malek, the visionary brothers behind Mr. Brisket, share their inspiring journey of resilience, passion, and business growth. Discover how they turned a food truck dream into a thriving brand in the competitive F&B industry.By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Dr. Ahmed Ghanim Al-Ali on the Future of Work & Business 37:49

5M ago37:49

37:49

How will AI reshape industries, productivity, and the way we work? In this episode of SEF Backstage Pass, we sit down with Dr. Ahmed Ghanim Al-Ali, co-founder of Deep Opinion AI, to explore the impact of automation, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge technology on the future of business.By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Revolutionizing Ice Cream: The House of Pops Story 23:54

5M ago23:54

23:54

Redefining ice cream with House of Pops! CEO & Co-founder Mazen shares how he combined health, sustainability, and pure ingredients to create a thriving brand. From plastic-free packaging to global expansion, this is a masterclass in purpose-driven entrepreneurship.By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Brisket, Business & Barbecue Culture with Hattem Mattar 20:09

5M ago20:09

20:09

From the grill to the boardroom, Hattem Mattar shares his journey of blending passion with business to build a barbecue empire. Discover how he turned his love for smoked meats into a thriving brand and what it takes to succeed in the culinary world. Don’t miss this sizzling conversation!By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Revolutionizing Logistics: The Startup That Moves Trucks Smarter with Pradeep Mallavarappu 27:44

5M ago27:44

27:44

How do you transform an entire industry? Pradeep Mallavarappu, co-founder of Trucker, reveals how his innovative platform is reshaping logistics in the MENA region. Tune in to learn about the challenges, successes, and the future of smart trucking!By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Mental Well-Being & Corporate Wellness with Asma Al Suwaidi 20:07

5M ago20:07

20:07

Balancing career success and mental well-being is no easy feat. Asma Al Suwaidi, founder of Art of Being, explores emotional resilience, corporate wellness, and the importance of prioritizing self-care in high-performance environments. Tune in for insights on sustaining mental well-being in today’s fast-paced world!…

1
The Business of Healthy Choices: Rashed Al Mulla’s Entrepreneurial Path 49:42

5M ago49:42

49:42

What does it take to build a health-conscious brand in a competitive market? Rashed Al Mulla, founder of Frio Sparkling Water, shares how he disrupted the beverage industry with sustainability, innovation, and community-driven business strategies. A must-watch for aspiring entrepreneurs!By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
⁠Beyond Textbooks: Raya Bidshari on Rethinking Education 22:17

5M ago22:17

22:17

The future of education is here! Raya Bidshari, founder of School of Humanity, discusses how her groundbreaking approach to learning is shaping the next generation. No exams, no outdated curriculums—just real-world, personalized education. Don’t miss this game-changing conversation!By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Revolutionizing the Coffee Market with Ali Al Ibrahim 27:11

5M ago27:11

27:11

Revolutionize your understanding of coffee with Ali Al Ibrahim, founder of Coffee App, on the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast! Learn how Ali is transforming the global coffee market, empowering farmers, and redefining loyalty programs. Recorded during the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024, this episode blends culture, innovation, and passion for a …

1
Brotherhood UAE’s Path to Healing Men with Adil Hussain 33:27

5M ago33:27

33:27

Discover how Adil Hussain is redefining masculinity and fostering connection through Brotherhood UAE. Join us on SEF Backstage Pass as we explore his journey of transformation, vulnerability, and creating a safe space for men to heal and grow. Part of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024!By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Rawan Baddour’s Journey with Zest Equity 22:53

5M ago22:53

22:53

From banking to entrepreneurship, Rawan Baddour shares how Zest Equity is empowering entrepreneurs and transforming private markets. Tune in to SEF Backstage Pass to hear her inspiring story of innovation, impact, and building trust in venture ecosystems. Part of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024!…

1
The UltraHuman Journey with Mohit Kumar 37:02

5M ago37:02

37:02

Discover the inspiring journey of Mohit Kumar, founder of UltraHuman, as he redefines health tech and wearables. From launching groundbreaking glucose monitors to achieving profitability, this episode dives deep into the innovation and determination behind the brand. Part of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024.…

1
Future of Mobility: Adam Ridgeway on EVs and the Road Ahead 52:38

5M ago52:38

52:38

Join Adam Ridgeway, the visionary behind One Moto, as he explores the future of sustainable mobility. Learn how he’s transforming last-mile delivery with electric vehicles and pioneering innovation on a global scale. A must-watch from the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024.By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Building an Investment Ecosystem with Kushal Shah 27:36

5M ago27:36

27:36

Explore the evolution of startup funding in the UAE with Kushal Shah, a trailblazer in angel investing and corporate venture capital. Gain insights into his journey, lessons learned, and vision for building a thriving investment ecosystem. Exclusive to the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024.By Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

1
Building the Region’s First Ultra-Platform with Abdallah Abu Sheikh 28:15

5M ago28:15

28:15

What does it take to build a trillion-dollar ultra-platform in the Middle East? Astra Tech’s Abdallah Abu Sheikh shares his bold vision for digital sovereignty, AI disruption, and why the region needs its own super app. From bootstrapping to raising millions, this episode is a masterclass in scaling big ideas!…

1
The Story Behind ClassPass with Payal Kadakia 33:17

5M ago33:17

33:17

Discover how Payal Kadakia turned her passion for dance into the billion-dollar fitness platform ClassPass on the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast! From her multicultural upbringing to redefining creativity and goal-setting, Payal shares invaluable insights on entrepreneurship and impact. This episode, part of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024, …

1
Shaping the Future of Innovation with Nader AlBastaki 33:22

5M ago33:22

33:22

In this episode of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, we sit down with Nader AlBastaki, Managing Director of the Dubai Future District Fund (DFDF), to explore his unique journey from banking and startups to leading one of the region’s most impactful investment funds. Nader shares his insights on fostering innovation in the MENA region, supporting star…

1
Nick Watson: Building Team AngelWolf & Inspiring Inclusion 34:45

7M ago34:45

34:45

Nick Watson, Founder of Team AngelWolf, shares his inspiring journey of turning personal challenges into a mission for inclusion and community building through the power of sport and triathlons. In this moving conversation from the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival in the UAE, Nick discusses how Team Angel Wolf has completed over 500 races, raising…

1
Building Deep Tech Ventures with Amine Staali 37:33

7M ago37:33

37:33

In this insightful episode of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, we sit down with Amine Staali, Founder and CEO of DeepMinds Ventures, to explore the future of deep tech entrepreneurship in the MENA region and beyond. Amine shares his inspiring journey, from building Proven Med to launching DeepMinds Ventures, a pioneering venture studio dedicated to …

1
Redefining Success & Leadership with Adel Alfalasi 23:33

7M ago23:33

23:33

Adel Alfalasi, Head of the UAE at Oliver Wyman, shares his insights on defining success, building high-performing organizations, and the evolving role of entrepreneurship in today’s world. In this episode of SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, Adel delves into the importance of adaptability, leadership, and leveraging technology for business growth. He als…

1
Holistic Health & Life Lessons with Amna Raisi 32:13

7M ago32:13

32:13

Join us in this inspiring episode of the SEF Backstage Pass podcast, recorded live at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024. Dr. Sheen sits down with Amna Raisi, also known as Amoon, a Certified Coach, Nutritional Therapist, and Yoga Teacher, to discuss her unique journey from aspiring diplomat to wellness advocate. Amna shares how her diverse…

1
Protecting Our Oceans with H.E. Shaikh Fahim Al Qasimi 24:30

8M ago24:30

24:30

H.E Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of Seafood Souq, shares his journey of ocean conservation, sea turtle rescues, and transforming the seafood industry with cutting-edge technology. In this insightful conversation from the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival, he highlights the importance of sustainability, the role of d…

1
From Setbacks to Summits: Fahad’s Story 36:21

8M ago36:21

36:21

In this episode of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, Fahad Badar, high-altitude adaptive mountaineer, adventurer, and banker, shares his extraordinary journey. From summiting Everest to surviving life-threatening challenges on Broad Peak, Fahad discusses the lessons he's learned about resilience, overcoming failure, and pushing boundaries. Tune in to…

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Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival Podcasts

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