PODCAST · business
Deen & Deals
by Deen & Deals
Welcome to Deen & Deals, the podcast where values meet ventures. Hosts Futhhallah Hamed and Mohammed Kiswani dive into real conversations on sales, business, and living with purpose. From enterprise deals to side hustles, faith, and family, they share wins, losses, and lessons learned. Expect unfiltered stories, practical insights, and guests who prove success and sincerity can coexist. Perfect for builders, sellers, and dreamers chasing something bigger without selling out.
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From Barbershop to $100K+ Tech Sales | Mohammed Kiswani | Ep. 25
Assalamu alaykum! This one is special. Episode 25 is Mohammed's origin story, and Futhallah is pulling it ALL out. We're talking about a Palestinian immigrant dad who slept on the NYC subway to save money, built a 35-year barbershop empire in Seattle, and raised Mohammed in that shop shaking hands with CEOs before he could even cut hair. Mohammed took over the business at 19 after his dad went into a coma, went from zero to mastering the craft, then made one of the boldest pivots you'll hear about — from barber to top-10 SDR at DocuSign. This is faith, grit, family, and rizq all wrapped into one episode. Press play.Show Notes00:00 — Wait, who's the guest today?01:03 — The Spider-Man origin story Mohammed never tells01:22 — Growing up in the shop — this is where it all started02:31 — Dad slept on the subway in NYC and stashed cash in his shoes03:58 — How the Bellevue Barbershop became a 35-year institution05:45 — From 30 employees to 3 chairs — the pivot that changed everything06:39 — "The Professional Man's Barber" — Mohammed's dad understood branding before branding was a thing10:01 — Cutting hair for software engineers from Microsoft and Amazon11:20 — What happens when the haircut goes wrong and the pressure's on12:12 — Dad goes into a coma — Mohammed steps up at 19 years old13:24 — Diamonds are made under pressure — this is the proof14:58 — Getting so locked in he'd mime cutting stranger's hair in public16:14 — The business reality that made Mohammed look for the exit17:23 — College AND barbershop at the same time — how he pulled it off18:30 — Watching 60-year-old barbers with bad backs and realizing he had to go22:20 — The client who said "you should try sales" and changed his life23:38 — The DocuSign interview rush — missed the bus, ran home, paid $50 to park24:51 — Second fastest SDR promoted at DocuSign. 10 months. Let's go25:26 — You never lose — you either learn or you're blessed for being patient29:00 — The flip — Futhallah's origin story is next
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#24: "If You Can't Answer This Question, I'm Not Buying"
Assalamu alaykum fam! Futhallah just became a dad — MashAllah — and we're kicking off this episode celebrating that before diving straight into the real talk. This week we're breaking down why Futhallah is literally the hardest person to sell to, and what that means for YOU as a seller. We get into how buyers actually make decisions, why ROI clarity is everything, and what separates a seller who closes from one who just talks. SubhanAllah, this one's packed.Show Notes00:00 — Futhallah just became a dad and we had to celebrate first00:02 — Why Mohammed called Futhallah the hardest person to sell to00:03 — The 3 reasons humans buy anything (and why most sellers miss it)00:04 — The barber story: why Futhallah drives 2 hours for a $45 haircut00:06 — Understanding your buyer's decision process before you pitch00:07 — Coaching, courses, and the 10-15K lesson on ROI00:11 — Why Umrah is a no-brainer purchase but a sales course isn't00:13 — How cold emails fail the "so what?" test every single time00:14 — What a seller MUST do to get Futhallah to say yes00:15 — Selling with conviction: can you guarantee your result?00:17 — The Prophet ﷺ as the greatest example of trust-based selling00:18 — Why Claude at $20/month is the competitor every coach needs to beat00:20 — The human element AI still can't replace in complex sales00:21 — Alex Kremer's question every seller should ask before every call00:22 — Shoutout to Salman and how a LinkedIn post changed Futhallah's career00:24 — Gap selling, the future AE, and why you're now driving with your customer00:25 — 3-step framework to close someone who's hard to sell toFollow Deen & Deals:Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVfHqu3uG8TZyNtPcTListen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deen-deals/id1847344968Where to find Mohammed:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/Where to find Futhallah:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/#DeenAndDeals #MuslimPodcast #SalesTips #HowToSell #MuslimEntrepreneur #SalesStrategy #BuyerPsychology #ROI #SalesCoaching #ClosingDeals #TechSales #IslamicBusiness #SellWithIntegrity #GapSelling #MuslimProfessionals #FaithAndBusiness #SalesSkills #EnterpriseSales #AccountExecutive #ValueSelling
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"Why This CEO Wants to Go Back to Being a Sales Rep" | Ep. 23
Assalamu alaykum fam! This episode is PACKED. We sat down with Troy Munson, CEO of Demo, LinkedIn content creator, and food TikToker, and this man got REAL with us. We're talking about leaving a job where the stock went from $80 to $500 (yeah, do that math), the LinkedIn poll hack that books meetings on autopilot, and why he's considering leaving entrepreneurship to go back to selling. Troy also dropped some gems on prospecting, building a brand, and what it really looks like behind the curtain of running a startup. You don't wanna miss this one!Show Notes00:00 — Meet Troy Munson and the Raleigh connection01:00 — How Mohammed and Troy linked up at Starbucks02:00 — Wisconsin weather vs. Texas vs. North Carolina (pick your poison)04:00 — Tesla in the snow? Not great06:00 — How LinkedIn brought all three of us together07:00 — Troy's origin story: oil and gas fell through, sales career fair changed everything10:00 — The biggest career regret: job hopping and missing out on MongoDB stock12:00 — Why chasing OTEs can cost you long term14:00 — Where Troy actually learned to sell (Symantec and MongoDB)16:00 — Why AEs should bring their managers into deals early17:00 — New logo hunting vs. customer expansion: which is actually harder?20:00 — Do you even need to prospect if you can hit quota farming?24:00 — The LinkedIn content journey: from polls to 53K followers27:00 — The genius poll hack that booked 5 to 7 meetings per post30:00 — Getting called out by your employer for posting too much31:00 — The awkwardness of being recognized in public from LinkedIn and TikTok35:00 — When a food review goes viral for the wrong reasons36:00 — The cussing experiment: 14x engagement but at what cost?39:00 — Why Troy wants to disappear from LinkedIn (but can't)42:00 — From seller to serial entrepreneur: Pringles, beard oil, SaaS, and more46:00 — Troy's big news: considering selling Demo and going back to sales48:00 — The midlife crisis at 31: figuring out what you actually love doing52:00 — Building a daily lifestyle you're happy with TODAY not later57:00 — Where to find Troy and final plugsFollow Deen & Deals:Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVfHqu3uG8TZyNtPcTListen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deen-deals/id1847344968Where to find Mohammed:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/Where to find Futhallah:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/Where to find Troy Munson:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troymunson/#DeenAndDeals #TroyMunson #Demo #SalesCareer #LinkedInProspecting #B2BSales #Entrepreneurship #SalesRep #StartupLife #LinkedInTips #ColdCalling #AccountExecutive #SalesPodcast #MuslimPodcast #TechSales #NewLogoSales #LinkedInGrowth #ProspectingTips #SalesStrategy #FounderLife #MongoDB #Proofpoint #Cybersecurity #SalesMotivation #MuslimProfessionals #CareerAdvice #SidHustle #LinkedInContent #TwoDadsInTech
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Brotherhood Banter | Ep. 22
As Ramadan comes to a close, we get real about brotherhood, friendship, and family ties. Why does brotherhood peak in Ramadan and fade after? What separates a true brother from an acquaintance? We break down the levels of friendship, how to stop making excuses for lost connections, and why a 90-second voice note can mean more than a generic broadcast message. Mohammed also shares a powerful story about his father's commitment to family and floats an app idea to help us all stay connected to the people who matter most.00:00 — Why Your Brotherhood Fades After Ramadan (And How to Fix It)00:39 — The Ramadan Blues Are Real — Here's What No One Talks About03:30 — You Haven't Truly Believed Until You Hear This04:10 — How Many "Brothers" Are Actually on Your Speed Dial?10:09 — Not Everyone Deserves the Same Bucket of Friendship27:33 — Connected Online, Disconnected in Real Life34:00 — Your Phone Has 5 Hours You're Wasting — Here's the Proof08:06 — The Levels of Brotherhood Nobody Wants to Admit14:30 — Why Marriage Exposed My Fake Friendships39:00 — A 90-Second Voice Note Can Change Everything28:30 — My Dad's Phone Calls Changed How I See Family Forever40:00 — Stop Blasting Generic Ramadan Messages — Do This Instead25:37 — True Brotherhood Is Earned, Not Assumed41:30 — We Built an App Idea Live to Fix Muslim Friendships43:07 — Plant Seeds in Ramadan That Bloom All Year32:10 — What the Prophet's Walk to Quba Teaches Us About Time20:27 — Are You a Gatekeeper or a Bridge? Brotherhood Check07:00 — The Friends You Keep Will Shape Your Deen03:11 — Ramadan Amplifies Everything — Even Your Loneliness12:48 — Who Do You Call When You Need Real Advice?Follow Deen & Deals:Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVfHqu3uG8TZyNtPcTListen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deen-deals/id1847344968Where to find Mohammed:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/Where to find Futhallah:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/
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Ramadan Blues & The Last 10 Nights: Are You Wasting Them? | Ep. 21
Ramadan Blues are hitting hard — but the last 10 nights are almost here. In this episode, we check in on our Ramadan fatigue, talk about the power of community (and how it doesn't build itself), and get real about phone addiction, social media scrolling, and how AI is making everything faster — but maybe not better. Plus: Masjid Hopping Thursdays, the string test for attention, and our challenge to delete the apps before the last 10.Time Stamps:00:00 Ramadan Blues Check-In00:45 Daylight Savings and Isha01:30 Last Ten Nights Routine02:15 Masjid vs Home Focus03:00 Taking Time Off Work04:30 Iftar Culture and Priorities06:00 Making Space for Ibadah07:30 Small Acts of Giving08:00 Masjid Hopping Thursdays09:30 Daily Charity Habits11:30 Raleigh Community Story16:00 Remembering Names Better19:00 Mentors and Lasting Impressions22:00 AI Speed vs Slowing Down24:30 Disconnect to Beat Burnout26:00 Phone-Free Prayer Habits28:00 Bathroom Scroll Reality Check29:00 The String Test for Attention32:00 News as Entertainment Trap35:00 Ramadan Lock-In Challenge36:30 Delete Apps and Produce More40:30 Time Tradeoffs and Accountability41:30 Wrap-Up and Subscribe Push#Ramadan #LastTenNights #MuslimProfessionals #DeenAndDeals #PhoneAddiction #Community #SocialMedia #LaylatulQadr #IslamicPodcast #DigitalDetox #TechSales #B2BSales #SalesMindset #HighPerformance #Burnout
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Is ChatGPT Spying On You? + Our Ramadan Check-In | Ep. 20
We hit our goal of getting to 20 podcast episodes! Tune in to listen to our updates about the podcast, as well as our Ramadan check-in and more about OpenAI mass surveillance.Time Stamps:00:00 Day 11 Check In00:29 Where Have We Been01:21 Podcast Milestone Reflections03:23 Ramadan Midpoint Fatigue05:37 Coffee Hacks And Dean Fuels07:03 Caffeine Pills And Ecom Tricks10:11 Coffee History And AI Parallels10:48 Quit ChatGPT Move To Claude12:51 Claude At Work And Sales Use16:41 ChatGPT Voice Changed17:42 Values And Tool Choices18:22 Back To Ramadan Fatigue18:34 Ramadan Midmonth Lull20:10 Discipline and Daily Quran21:41 Accountability Systems24:48 Building Listener Community27:16 Defining the Ideal Listener36:03 Feedback and Future Plans37:55 Wrap Up and Call to ActionFollow Deen & Deals:• Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVfHqu3uG8TZyNtPcT• Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deen-deals/id1847344968Where to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/Where to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/#TechSales #B2BSales #SalesMindset #SalesLeadership #Ramadan #MuslimProfessionals #Burnout #SelfWorth #CorporateAthlete #HighPerformance #DeenAndDeals
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415% Over Quota to Rock Bottom & How He Fell in Love w/ Islam Again | Ep. 19- Tanveer Mostafa, CRO
In this episode we talk about Tanveer’s journey from shoveling snow door-to-door at 11 years old to becoming CRO at Untap Your Sales Potential. He shares what it really felt like to hit 415% of quota at Salesforce… and why that success still left him empty. We unpack burnout, panic attacks, pressure, and the hidden vices many sellers never talk about.Tanveer opens up about rediscovering his faith, rebuilding his self-worth, and learning that elite sales performance starts with mastering your energy, not just your pipeline. We dive into “corporate athletics,” executive presence, why most sellers burn out chasing outcomes, and how Ramadan transformed his mindset and results. This is a raw conversation about faith, ambition, identity, and becoming the kind of person who can sustainably win in sales.Chapters:00:00 Embracing Self-Worth & Being ‘Enough’00:29 Welcome to Dean & Deals (Ramadan Edition) + Guest Intro02:00 Tenvir’s Origin Story: Door-to-Door Hustle to Salesforce03:45 Meeting Ian Cognac & Building a Network Through Podcasting05:52 Leaving the ‘Safe’ Path: Why He Took the Startup Risk10:29 What Untap Your Sales Potential Actually Teaches (Top 1% Framework)11:43 Sales as Corporate Athletics: Mindset, Habits, and Performance15:04 From Hardcore Closer to Trusted Advisor: Burnout, Panic & Wake-Up Calls21:59 How He Hit 415%: Pipeline Discipline + Personalized Prospecting28:49 The Hidden Cost of ‘Top Performer’ Life: Vices, Integrity Gap & Energy35:25 Negative energy on calls: “commission breath” and bad vibes36:49 Show up light & empty: create a safe space and sell through service37:39 Spiritual reset + daily mindset training (like working out)40:48 The “Acceleration Decade”: AI, human being vs human doing41:37 Faith & surrender: prayer as releasing anxiety + letting go of control44:45 Winning from within: ditch vices, dopamine traps, build habits45:52 Goals without attachment: who you become to hit quota49:33 Nervous system & confidence with execs: self-worth and disqualifying51:22 Breathwork + mindfulness alongside Islam (without “speed-running” Salah)55:52 Ramadan reflections: presence over metrics, learning, and miracles01:03:26 Carry Ramadan forward + mortality as a wake-up callFollow Deen & Deals:• Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVfHqu3uG8TZyNtPcT• Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deen-deals/id1847344968Where to find Tanveer:• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanveermostafa/• Untap Your Sales Potential: https://www.untapyoursalespotential.com/Where to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/Where to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/#TechSales #B2BSales #SalesMindset #SalesLeadership #Ramadan #MuslimProfessionals #Burnout #SelfWorth #CorporateAthlete #HighPerformance #DeenAndDeals
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How to Reprogram Your Mind for Success - Ep 18 - Mike Sullivan
At 39 years old, Mike Sullivan was unemployed, $80K in debt, and hiding personal loans from his wife.That desperation forced his transformation.In this episode, we unpack how Mike went from used car sales and call reluctance… to becoming a top enterprise seller at TriNetX.We talk about:Why you don’t need rock bottom — but adversity can be fuelHow to control the controllables in salesIdentity-based habits and long-game thinkingThe difference between average reps and elite operatorsHow a single cold DM changed his careerThe Comeback Code frameworkIf you’re in sales and feel stuck, plateaued, or doubting yourself - this conversation is for you.
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Building What's Missing - Ep 17 - Wai Yan Htun , CEO and Founder of XO Halal
Assalamu Alaykum!In this episode of the Deen & Deals Podcast, we sit down with Wai Yan Htun, founder of XO Halal.Wai Yan shares his unconventional journey — growing up in Myanmar, dropping out of university twice, building startups across Asia, and eventually moving to the U.S. for marriage and starting over from scratch.We talk about how a simple problem — finding trustworthy halal snacks — turned into a fast-growing business, why listening to customers forced him to pivot away from subscription boxes, and how he’s building a halal snack marketplace with both online and on-ground access through vending machines.This episode is a masterclass in:-early-stage entrepreneurship-market validation without hype-customer-led product decisions-and building with intention and alignmentTopics Covered:-Building startups across Asia with no corporate background-Why he shut down multiple companies to start fresh in the U.S.-How XO Halal began as a $3,000 experiment-Subscription vs marketplace models-Halal access in America vs abroad-Finding customers without ad spend-Why every founder needs an “idea shelf”-Where to Find Wai Yan & XO HalalXO Halal: https://xohalal.comInstagram / TikTok: @xohalalFollow Deen & Deals🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVf...🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeenAndDealsSubscribe to our weekly newsletter:https://deenndeals.com/HostsMohammed KiswaniLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/Futhallah HamedLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone building something of their own.#DeenAndDeals #Entrepreneurship #HalalBusiness #Startups #MuslimFounders #D2C #Marketplace #FaithAndWork #Podcast
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Prove Them Wrong: Discipline, Big Deals, & Doing What Actually Works - Ep 16 Tyler Crosson
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://deenndeals.com/Assalamu Alaykum! In this episode of the Deen & Deals Podcast, we sit down with Tyler Crosson, enterprise sales leader and former Army cavalry scout. Tyler breaks down what it means to perform under pressure, how role-playing and preparation translate into winning big enterprise deals, and why the hardest part of enterprise sales is staying consistent during the “quiet” stretches. He also shares his 80+ pound transformation and the mindset shift that made it possible: stop obsessing over outcomes and commit to the process. We close with practical lessons on routine, boundaries, and community as tools to stay grounded as a husband, father, and top performer.Follow Deen & Deals:• Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVf...• Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Where to find Tyler:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercrosson/• Strategic Sellers Community (formerly Enterprise Sellers): https://www.strategicsellerscommunity.com/• Jamal Reimer (Mega Deal Secrets): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamalreimer/Where to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/• Newsletter: https://www.mohammedkiswani.com• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC_gXQily4ZrmAvwb269n9YwWhere to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/#DeenAndDeals #Podcast #TechSales #EnterpriseSales #SalesMindset #Discipline #FitnessJourney #Leadership #Accountability #MedDPICC #ChallengerSale #SaaSSales #FaithAndWork #SelfImprovement
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The $350K Question That Exposed Our Mindset - Ep 15
Assalamu Alaykum – in this episode we talk about what would really change if a $350K commission check hit on a Friday, and why the money isn’t the main point. We break down what separates the reps who get lucky once from the reps who stay consistent year after year: identity, discipline, and doing the daily inputs you don’t want to do. We reflect on the Ian Koniak + Mike Sullivan episode, talk fitness as a sales weapon, gratitude as an energy reset, and how “betting on yourself” starts with small votes of confidence that stack into a whole new version of you.Chapters:00:00 Unexpected Question: $350K Commission Check00:24 Unexpected Question: $350K Commission Check00:46 Financial Planning and Investments01:19 Insights from Ian Koniak's Episode02:47 Consistency and Success in Sales04:46 Mindset and Personal Growth08:27 Taking Bold Steps and Betting on Yourself14:08 Fitness and Personal Discipline20:04 Daily Habits and Long-Term Goals22:17 Protecting and Growing Your Energy23:16 The Power of Gratitude25:56 Using Atomic Habits and ChatGPT for Sales26:45 Identity and Self-Belief28:54 Mindset and Success in Sales29:35 Discipline and Financial Wisdom30:24 The Honda Accord Debate35:59 Final Reflections and Call to Action
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"Problem Before Product": 17 Years of Elite Tech Sales Lessons” | E14 w. Salman Mohiuddin
In this episode we talk about Salman’s journey from growing up in Canada with a single mom grinding multiple minimum-wage jobs, to starting sales at 13 doing door-to-door, to breaking into IBM as an SDR in 2006 and navigating two recessions. He shares what it was like being visibly Muslim in a white-dominated sales world, why staying true to your values is not just possible but a real advantage, and how “good character” becomes dawah in the workplace. On the sales side, Salman breaks down what separates top AEs today: turning nice-to-haves into need-to-haves through real discovery, creating “flow” instead of checklist interrogations, enabling your champion to sell internally, and proving ROI when CFO scrutiny is brutal. He also explains why he chose the individual contributor and coaching path over leadership, and how he built Salman Sales Academy.Chapters:00:00 Meet Salman: success outside the “doctor or failure” box01:23 Growing up tough and learning grit early03:50 Door-to-door rejection builds a sales spine05:36 IBM break-in: SDR to AE under pressure11:02 Owning faith and identity in corporate sales14:26 Why values beat shortcuts every time26:13 The LinkedIn leap that changed everything30:01 Modern selling: AI, competition, and tight CFOs35:30 Can your champion sell without you?36:22 Turning nice-to-haves into must-haves37:14 Discovery that actually closes deals39:11 Flow > scripts in sales conversations43:20 Coaching loops that level you up fast46:16 Choosing roles wisely: conviction over OTE01:06:08 Protecting family time in high-pressure sales01:07:50 From AE to entrepreneur01:10:04 Final takeaway: character wins long-termWhere to find Salman:• Salman Sales Academy: https://www.salmansales.com/• Linkedin: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/salmanmohiuddin/Where to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/Where to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/
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Ep 13 - 'Why Authenticity Wins in Sales' w/ Alex Kremer
Sales tactics are everywhere. Authentic connection is rare.In this episode of Deen & Deals, Mohammed Kiswani and Futhallah Hamed sit down with Alex Kremer to talk about the inner game of sales, leadership, faith, and why being human is your biggest advantage in modern selling.If you’ve ever felt burned out, disconnected, or tired of fake sales energy — this one’s for you.
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Ep 12 - Time off, Small Deeds, & Planning for a Big Year
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://deenndeals.com/Assalamu Alaykum! In this first recording of 2026, Mohammed and Futhallah kick off the year with a real catch-up episode on intentions, consistency, and what it takes to build momentum without burning out. They reflect on 2025 lessons, the importance of family time, how movement impacts productivity, and why the key to a strong 2026 is focusing on fewer lanes with more depth. They also talk about weekly planning, time management, and using simple daily actions (like steps, sunnah habits, and writing things down) to create real change over time.
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#011: Ashequl Hoque – Redefining Success in 2026
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://deenndeals.com/Assalamu Alaykum! In this episode of the Deen & Deals Podcast, we sit down with Asheq — entrepreneur, former lawyer, and leader behind the Miraj Collective. Asheq shares his journey from an immigrant upbringing to law, corporate leadership, entrepreneurship, and eventually exiting a business — and why “making it” didn’t feel the way he expected.We talk about why people don’t move because of logic, but emotion, and how emotional intelligence — when grounded in faith — becomes prophetic intelligence rather than manipulation. Asheq breaks down the three currencies every leader operates with: competence, trust, and emotion, and why success without alignment often leaves people feeling empty.This conversation dives into ambition, risk, leadership, and how young professionals should think about success heading into 2026. We also explore the hidden cost of golden handcuffs, the difference between contentment and playing small, and how Miraj is helping Muslim men integrate faith, career, family, and leadership without forcing a false choice between deen and dunya.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Early Career Insights01:39 Personal Background and Upbringing02:54 Professional Journey and Key Lessons10:27 Emotional Intelligence and Leadership16:19 Balancing Career and Personal Life28:26 The Impactful Life of Prophet Muhammad29:56 Embracing Risk and Opportunity33:16 Navigating Financial Security and Risk38:53 Redefining Success and Purpose43:55 The Mirage Initiative: Integrating Faith and Ambition52:40 Practical Steps for Young Muslim Professionals58:16 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Deen & Deals:• Listen on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DeenandDeals• Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Where to find Asheq:• Miraj Collective: https://www.mirajcollective.com/• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashequlhoque/Where to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/• Newsletter: https://www.mohammedkiswani.com• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC_gXQily4ZrmAvwb269n9YwWhere to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/#DeenAndDeals #Podcast #Leadership #FaithAndWork #MuslimProfessionals #Entrepreneurship #Ambition #CareerGrowth #Purpose #EmotionalIntelligence #Success #PersonalDevelopment #Brotherhood
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#010 : William Padilla - Content Creator Secrets
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: https://deenndeals.substack.com/Assalamu Alaykum! In this episode of the Deen & Deals Podcast, we sit down with William Padilla, mid-market AE at Aspire and content creator behind Sell That SaaS. Will shares his journey from digital journalism to sales and content creation, why authenticity matters more than chasing trends, and how sharing just a few “chapters” of your life can unlock real growth. He breaks down how early unpaid work with Cuts Clothing led to long-term paid partnerships like Upwork, and why creators should focus on quality and consistency before monetization.Follow Deen & Deals:• Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVf...• Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Where to find William:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-padilla/• Tiktok: / https://www.tiktok.com/@sellthatsaas?lang=enWhere to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/• Newsletter: https://www.mohammedkiswani.com• Youtube: / https://www.youtube.com/@UC_gXQily4ZrmAvwb269n9Yw Where to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/#DeenAndDeals #Podcast #SaaSSales #TechSales #PersonalBrand #CreatorEconomy #BrandDeals #InfluencerMarketing #TikTokGrowth #LinkedInGrowth #UGC #SalesCareer #ContentStrategy #FaithAndWork #Entrepreneurship
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#009 Laid Off? Do THIS in the First 72 Hours (Framework to Get Hired Fast)
Assalamu Alaykum guys - in this episode we talk about what to do if you get laid off: how to reset mentally, stay humble and keep income flowing, build a smart emergency fund, and then run a sales-style job hunt using tiers (your close network, a strategic LinkedIn post, warm intros into target companies, and only then mass applying) so you can bounce back faster and land something even better.Timestamps:00:00 Laid Off? Start Here00:33 The Truth About Layoffs and Financial Pressure02:35 Resetting Your Mind After Losing a Job06:28 The First Moves You Must Make Immediately08:59 Emergency Funds That Actually Save You12:44 Hard Lessons From Real Layoff Stories14:44 The Job Search Framework That Works16:09 Your Network Is Your Secret Weapon18:59 How to Create Inbound Opportunities on LinkedIn22:17 Applying With Intention (Not Desperation)25:42 Alternative Paths If Sales Is Not the Move29:55 Staying Patient, Confident, and Grounded31:11 Final Thoughts + Subscribe and ShareFollow Deen & Deals:• Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TmLGVf...• Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...• Subscribe to our newsletter: https://deenndeals.substack.com/Where to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/• Newsletter: https://www.mohammedkiswani.com• Youtube: / https://www.youtube.com/@UC_gXQily4ZrmAvwb269n9Yw Where to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/
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#008 - Being your authentic self: "No, My Name Isn’t Mo"
Salam everyone! In this episode of Deen & Deals, we dive into a conversation that hits close to home: identity, confidence, and showing up as your full self—especially as a Muslim navigating the modern workplace. We share personal stories about growing into our identities, from refusing to shorten our names to learning how to confidently advocate for prayer, Ramadan accommodations, and faith-based boundaries on the job.We explore what it really means to be authentic at work, how confidence in your Islamic identity translates into confidence in your career, and why small acts—like asking someone how to pronounce their name properly—carry deep respect. We also highlight moments of community and unexpected connection, whether it’s finding a meditation room to pray in, helping a colleague feel comfortable practicing Islam at the office, or meeting strangers who join your prayer in public.Enjoy the episode, and may it give you the confidence to lead with your identity wherever you are.Time Stamps:01:01 The Importance of Identity01:48 Navigating Identity in the Workplace03:45 Respecting Names and Identities04:41 Balancing Faith and Work07:13 Challenges of Practicing Faith at Work09:33 Creating a Comfortable Work Environment11:11 Personal Anecdotes and Identity11:33 Embracing and Expressing Faith at Work12:38 Navigating Workplace Dynamics as a Muslim14:18 Challenges and Strategies for Public Prayer16:46 Practical Tips for Balancing Faith and Work21:10 Concluding Thoughts and ReflectionsFollow Deen & Deals:• Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...• Subscribe to our newsletter: https://deenndeals.substack.com/Where to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/• Newsletter: https://www.mohammedkiswani.com• Youtube: / https://www.youtube.com/ @mohammedkkiswani Where to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: / https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/
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#007 - Amen Elbaba - Navigating Tech Sales w/ Faith
Salam everyone! In this episode, we speak with Amen Elbaba about his inspiring journey into tech sales. Amen shares how connecting with a mentor on LinkedIn changed his career path and how his first job at Radio Shack sparked his interest in sales. We discuss the importance of resilience, faith, and strategic networking, which helped Amen overcome layoffs and achieve success in his field. Amen also talks about the significance of “Tawakkul” (reliance on God) and God’s plan in shaping his career. Towards the end, he introduces his coaching business, TechSteps, aimed at helping others break into tech sales. This episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to thrive in the tech sales industry while maintaining a strong faith-based perspective. Enjoy!Time Stamps:00:00 Welcome to the Dean and Deals Podcast00:13 Introducing the Special Guest: Amen02:20 Amen's Journey into Sales04:10 Breaking into Tech Sales at Oracle10:34 The Impact of Faith and Perseverance in Sales22:27 The Gift That Keeps on Giving: Sales Success Stories26:42 The Concept of Faith and Hard Work28:09 Career Journey: From Oracle to Startups30:49 Facing Layoffs and Resilience31:49 Returning Home and Finding New Opportunities35:35 The Importance of Networking48:55 Advice for Young Sellers52:17 Introducing Tech Steps Program54:56 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsYoutube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DeenandDealsSubscribe to our newsletter: https://deenndeals.substack.com/Where to find Amen:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amenelbaba/• TechSteps: https://www.techsteps.io/• Text him directly: (202) 500-5614Where to find Mohammed:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/• Newsletter: https://www.mohammedkiswani.com• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC_gXQily4ZrmAvwb269n9Yw Where to find Futhallah:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/
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I used to be disciplined…time to build back! - Ep. 6
Episode 6: Mohammed Kiswani ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani ) and Futhallah Hamed ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed ) talk about work travel preferences, meeting with customers in person, post marriage habits, and balancing work/life with some Deen reminders in the middle. Timestamps:0:25 Starting the Day with Purpose1:29 The Podcasting Journey3:24 From Cold Outreach to Coffee5:29 Connecting with Customers6:41 The Serenity of Train Travel8:46 Beyond the Rails13:50 Post-Marriage Habits23:00 Emulating Prophetic Practice26:27 Prioritizing Family and Weekly Dates31:09 Mastering Work-Life Balance#softwaresales, #techsales, #saassales, #b2bsales, #salesmindset, #deenanddeals, #muslimpodcast, #islamicreminders, #deenfirst, #faithandbusiness, #muslimcreators, #mindsetmatters, #selfimprovement, #purposeoverpressure, #growthmode, #levelupmindset, #identityshift, #stayconsistent, #mensmentalhealth, #fatherhoodjourney, #disciplineequalsfreedom, #saleshustle, #quotaenergy, #closersmindset, #saasgrind, #dealflow, #workyourpipeline, #ai4sales, #realconversations, #motivationdaily, #faithandfocus, #greenjuicegrind, #rgamode
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Pipeline Solves Everything - Ep.5
In this episode of Deen and Deals, we dig into why pipeline is the key to staying calm in sales and avoiding last-minute stress. We talk about building pipeline the smart way by focusing on the top 20 percent of accounts, using tools like Glean and Wispr Flow, and separating research from outreach so every hour counts.We also break down RGA, or Revenue Generating Activities, which is the green juice of sales. It is the work that actually makes you money, like calling prospects, advancing deals, and booking meetings. If it does not make money, it is not an RGA.The conversation closes with mindset. Know your hourly worth, stay consistent, detach from outcomes, and trust Allah. Effort compounds, and pipeline gives you the freedom to sell with confidence instead of desperation.
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Winning the day with your morning routine - Ep.4
In this episode of Deen and Deals, we get real about tech sales. We talk about how we got here and why we stayed, the mindset required, and how this career teaches skills that can translate into anything you choose to do next. We also dig into financial discipline, living off base, using commission as fuel, and the importance of intention behind the work. Hope you enjoy!__Show Notes:00:00 Morning Routines: A Personal Journey02:31 The Importance of Family Time05:27 Balancing Work and Personal Life08:21 The Role of Accountability in Routines11:07 Adapting Routines Through Life Changes13:52 Energy Creation and Morning Rituals16:48 Navigating Slumps in Routine19:41 Optimizing Sleep for Better Health24:33 The Importance of Accountability in Faith31:06 Staying Humble and Recognizing Divine Support37:50 Reflections on Life's Journey and Future Goals__Connect with us:Mohammed - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedkiswani/Futhallah - https://www.linkedin.com/in/futhallah-hamed/#techsales, #saassales, #b2bsales, #salesmindset, #morningroutine, #productivityhacks, #muslimpodcast, #deenanddeals, #mindsetmatters, #salescareer, #commissionlife, #financialdiscipline, #faithandbusiness, #athletemindset, #breakintotechsales, #salesnetworking, #followupstrategy, #closingdeals, #salesmotivation, #selfimprovement
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Why you NEED an athlete's mindset in sales - Ep. 3
In this episode of Deen and Deals, Futhallah and Mohammed get real about tech sales. They talk about how they got here and why they stayed, the mindset required, and how this career teaches skills that can translate into anything they choose to do next. They dig into financial discipline, living off base, using commission as fuel, and the importance of intention behind the work. They compare tech sales to being an athlete in the business world, touching on the highs, lows, rejection, and resilience needed to succeed. They also break down real strategies on breaking into tech sales, networking, following up, and closing the first deal which is landing the actual job.
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How long to stay in your sales role? - Ep. 2
Episode 2In this episode of Deen & Deals, Mohammed and Futhallah dive deep into the big career question every seller faces: When to stay and when to move on? They share real stories from their journeys in tech sales, unpack the “Learning & Earning” test, and explore how patience, Sabr, and trust in Allah’s timing guide career decisions. From startup grind to big-brand comfort, this conversation blends sales wisdom, faith, and practical life lessons for anyone chasing growth without losing balance.00:00 Introduction and the Challenge of Time Management03:04 Navigating Job Changes in Sales05:53 Learning vs. Earning: The Balancing Act08:42 Choosing the Right Starting Point in Sales11:46 The Transition from Big Companies to Startups16:34 Navigating Sales Challenges in Remote Work17:54 The Transition from Big Companies to Startups19:31 The Importance of Grit and Self-Motivation21:44 The Three T's of Sales Success24:41 The Human Element in Sales26:11 Decision Making Through Faith and Patience
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New Beginnings - Ep. 1
00:00 Introduction to Dean and Deals Podcast02:53 The Intentions Behind the Podcast06:06 Personal Stories and Backgrounds12:03 Exploring the Five F's of Fathallah18:02 Discussion on UFC and Personal Interests21:52 From Barber to Business: A Journey Begins23:43 Transitioning to Tech: The DocuSign Experience25:11 Climbing the Sales Ladder at Outreach26:30 The Art of Tipping: Insights from the Barber Chair28:00 Navigating Career Changes: Balancing Barbering and Sales29:09 The Power of Networking: How We Met37:36 Building Relationships: The Importance of Companionship39:28 The Mission of the Podcast: Faith and Career Growth
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to Deen & Deals, the podcast where values meet ventures. Hosts Futhhallah Hamed and Mohammed Kiswani dive into real conversations on sales, business, and living with purpose. From enterprise deals to side hustles, faith, and family, they share wins, losses, and lessons learned. Expect unfiltered stories, practical insights, and guests who prove success and sincerity can coexist. Perfect for builders, sellers, and dreamers chasing something bigger without selling out.
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