How is Pakistan’s content changing? In this week's episode, content creator Kazi Akber talks about the challenges of creating meaningful content in a world dominated by quick, viral trends. He discusses how a focus on low-effort content affects society and why we need more thoughtful, impactful storytelling. From short-form videos to creating a smarter, more engaged audience, this episode looks at the future of Pakistan’s content creators. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify,...

What is the government doing to tackle smog in Punjab? What’s the long-term sustainability plan for Pakistan? Maryam Aurangzeb, Senior Minister of Punjab, joins us for an exclusive podcast where she discusses her journey into politics, and how she gained the leadership position. She also talks about the efforts to combat smog, the importance of environmental compliance, and the need for long-term planning to address climate challenges. She also discusses the rise of political polarisation,...

How do crime networks work in Pakistan, and how is the police keeping up? In this episode, SP Beenish Fatima shares how criminal gangs operate, from using social media like TikTok for secret communication to running complex supply chains. She also discusses the challenges of maintaining law and order in a rapidly changing society, tackling stereotypes about the police, and navigating the digital transformation of law enforcement. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever...

Join us this week as we sit down with Rabeel Warraich, Founder & CEO of Sarmayacar and one of the key investors and judges from the first season of Shark Tank Pakistan. In this conversation, he dives into the evolution of Pakistan’s tech ecosystem, discusses groundbreaking investments in companies like Airlift and Patari, and addresses the challenges of navigating payment gateways in a developing market. Learn how venture capital is shaping the future, empowering entrepreneurs, and...

In this week’s episode, we are joined by Sidra Kiran, Communications Manager, and Hasan Ali Qureshi, Senior Business Development Specialist from InDrive  Pakistan. We discuss how InDrive is revolutionizing ride-hailing in Pakistan, its challenges, and how it’s working to make the platform safer and more reliable for drivers and passengers. We also find out how InDrive adapted to Pakistan’s unique market, and what the future holds for the ride-hailing ecosystem in Pakistan. Search ‘Talha...

In this week’s episode, we sit down to reflect on our recent trip to China, joined by Rana Hamza Saif, Asim Kamal, Haris Ali, and Maarij Farooq. Together, we share our insights on the remarkable experiences that shaped the journey – from witnessing China’s groundbreaking technology to observing the deep-rooted discipline in its youth. We also discuss what it means to represent Pakistan on an international platform and how such trips can bridge cultures and create lasting connections. Search...

In this week’s exclusive episode, we are joined by Ehsan Saya, Managing Director at Daraz for a conversation on Pakistan's e-commerce sector, find out inspiring stories of resilience among Daraz sellers, Pakistan’s emerging Gen-Z talent, and the journey to overcome digital payment challenges. Ehsan shares Daraz’s vision of empowering small businesses and redefining e-commerce in Pakistan. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your...

In this week’s exclusive episode, we are joined by Gen Tariq Rashid Khan, Hilalay Imtiaz (Military), (Retd) Pakistan Former Ambassdor for his first-ever candid conversation. We dive into a variety of critical topics, including the military’s involvement in Pakistan’s politics, the future of democracy in Pakistan, the military’s role in international diplomacy, and what the future holds for Pakistan’s internal security, geopolitical influence, and global standing. Search ‘Talha Ahad...

Can you rise above digital fame and create something that truly matters? Irfan Junejo shares his insights on cancel culture, self-loathing, and the challenges of staying authentic in the content creation world. We dive into his journey from creating food stories that celebrate the unsung heroes to aiming for a vlogging revolution that goes beyond pranks and fabricated content. Junejo also discusses his motivations—family, passion, and building a legacy that stands the test of time. Search...

Is the path of redemption always open? How do you take the first step on the journey to healing? For our 100th episode, entrepreneur and scholar Shaykh Atif Ahmed joins us for a deep conversation on faith, healing, and finding your way back to God. From a life of indulgence to a quest for spirituality, Shaykh Atif shares his personal journey of seeking redemption. We also delve into the role of religion in bridging socio-cultural divides. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or...

In this exclusive episode, I sat down with Simon Milner, Vice President of Public Policy for the APAC region at Meta. Simon shares his experiences from his recent visit to Pakistan—his second trip, where he talks about Meta's efforts to support a thriving digital economy and the role of effective policy-making in global tech governance. We also discuss the creator economy and the broader digital policy governing the region. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you...

Can Islamic banking save Pakistan's crumbling finance sector? What is the way forward in this crippling economy? In this week's episode, our guest Jawad Majid Khan, President, CEO, and Director of Bank Makaramah Ltd, joins us to discuss Pakistan's banking sector, conventional vs Islamic banking, and Pakistan's financial future. We also talk about digitisation in the banking sector and the barriers to international transactions. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever...

Where is Pakistan's advertising industry headed? What role will advertising marketplaces play in the future? Join us this week as we sit down with Syed Saad Hashmi, CEO and founder of AdStreet to discuss the state of Pakistan's advertising industry, its weaknesses, and the concept of advertising marketplaces. We also delve into the psychology behind advertising and explore the evolution of the industry. Additionally, Saad shares insights on what we can learn from the Indian industry to...

Is the real estate sector the only way out for Pakistan? Are most housing societies scamming people? Join us this week as we sit down with Sheikh Shujaullah Khan, the Chief Operating Officer of Etihad Town to discuss the rise and fall of Pakistan's real estate industry, modern housing societies, and the flaws of the 'file system.' We also talk about the economic recession, the safest investment options, and the way forward for Pakistan. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or...

Are liberal arts the future? Is the Pakistani education system conducive to artists? Join us this week as we sit down with Zaeem Yaqoob Khan, Executive Director of Student Affairs and External Relations at Beaconhouse National University, to discuss education in the 21st century, the real meaning of liberal arts, and where this degree can take you. We also talk about the university system in Pakistan, and Zaeem addresses some rumors about discipline issues, especially with respect to liberal...

Is the PTI government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa backed by the establishment? Who is really in power? In this week's episode, we sit down with Aimal Wali Khan, Central President of the Awami National Party, to discuss the lack of structure in policymaking and state institutions. Aimal Wali also makes some interesting revelations about independence, Imran Khan, and the future of the country. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your...

Does Parliament follow any decorum? How are bills passed? What is it like being a young parliamentarian? This week, our guest is Mubeen Arif Jutt, PTI's youngest parliamentarian. He joins us to discuss political and parliamentary affairs, the future of PTI, and the events of May 9th and their aftermath. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast #mubeenarifjutt

Is Imran Khan's leadership style similar to Hitler's? Is the Establishment the cause of Pakistan's downfall? Which party was responsible for the assassination attempt on Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza? Join us as we sit down with Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza to discuss the true meaning of 'taghoot' and find answers to questions regarding women's rights in Islam. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast

Can a good CEO also be a good leader? What is the cost of pursuing dreams? In this week's episode, Yousaf Humayun Eashai, CEO of Touchstone Communications, joins us to explore these questions through his journey to the pinnacle of his career. He shares personal anecdotes and insights tailored for Gen-Z, discussing the evolving workplace dynamics and the essential keys to corporate success. Yousaf also offers tips on cultivating leadership qualities that enable effective problem-solving and...

Is the class system prevalent in the public sector? Is our education system preparing the youth for the future? Our guest this week, Umer Riaz from the Police Services of Pakistan, joins us to give his two cents on these topics. We also discuss the policy crisis in Pakistan and the distortion of history. Umer also shares what he believes the future of Pakistan will look like over the next decade. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your...

Did Pakistan have a role in the fall of Kabul? Is the TTP backed by the Afghan Taliban? Does America hold Pakistan accountable for its loss in Afghanistan? Our guest this week, Salman Javed, a Pak-Afghan affairs expert, joins us to answer all these questions and more. We discuss the decades leading up to the 2021 fall of Kabul and how it has impacted Pakistan. We also explore the future of Pak-Afghan relations and their potential to shape the region's future. Salman also shares insights on...

Has bureaucracy become irrelevant? Is there no redemption for Pakistan's civil services? Our guest this week, Tariq Mehmood Awan, a seasoned civil servant, joins us to discuss the highs and lows in the history of Pakistan's civil services. We discuss the political influence and other factors that have been rusting this state machinery and whether or not it can be recovered. Mr. Tariq also shares the measures that can be taken to help resolve the capacity issues and improve the...

How critical is the role of PR? Do governments also need agencies to manage public relations, and how do political parties form narratives using PR? Our guest this week, Aneel Butt, a seasoned PR professional with over 10 years of experience working with various big names in the corporate world, joins us to discuss all of this and much more. We discuss the PR and advertising industry of Pakistan, how it has evolved over time, and how it can be used to project a better image of Pakistan to the...

In this week's conversation with American journalist Betsy Joles, who joins us to discuss her experience working in Pakistan, meeting the people, and exploring the culture. We also discuss the differences between Pakistani and American work cultures and how certain stereotypes shape our perceptions of each other. Search ‘Talha Ahad Podcast' on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen to your podcasts. #talhaahad #talhaahadpodcast #betsyjoles