The Playground Podcast

Send us Fan MailWelcome to a powerful and unfiltered episode of The Playground Podcast. This week, Shamim sits down with one of the UAE’s most influential voices, Dr. Maya Al Hawary, for a deep dive into the realities of modern parenting, mental health, and marriage.In this honest and emotional conversation, we cover:💔 Why more couples are divorcing and delaying marriage👩‍🍼 The traditional “Nafas” & Postpartum  period and why it matters today🧠 What to do when your partner is struggling with mental health💍 The truth behind second wives and how men really get there📉 The societal pressure on new mums and why we need a mindset shift👶 Advice every expecting or new mum needs to hear — no matter your cultureThis episode is for every millennial or Gen Z parent who’s navigating the chaos of marriage, babies, and emotional balance — and for anyone who’s ever felt like no one talks about the hard parts of it all.🎧 Listen now and share with a mum, dad, or couple who needs this.📍 Hit subscribe for more real, raw conversations every week.

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Playground Unfiltered, host Shamim Kassibawi sits down with three guests to unpack real and raw messages from our listeners—because parenting isn’t always picture-perfect.We dive into:A working mum’s guilt—juggling a career and missing out on precious moments with her kids.A husband who feels he lost his wife after they became parents.A new mum feeling lonely and unsupported, contemplating divorce.A mum struggling with overbearing in-laws and setting boundaries.Navigating cultural differences in marriage and parenting.These are real stories, real struggles, and real conversations that so many families face but rarely talk about. Join us as we break the silence, offer support, and remind every parent that they are not alone.🔗 Listen now and be part of the conversation—because parenting is messy, but we’re in it together.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to the first episode of Playground Unfiltered, a special series on The Playground podcast where no topic is off-limits. Host Shamim Kassibawi is joined by three incredible guests to dive deep into the unspoken challenges of modern parenting.In this candid conversation, we explore:Managing time with family members when their values don’t align with yours.The struggle of losing yourself after becoming a mum.The role of nannies in family dynamics.Emotional journeys through IVF and the stigma surrounding it.And that’s just the beginning. This episode is raw, honest, and designed to show you that you’re not alone in your parenting journey. Tune in for real talk, shared experiences, and unfiltered advice to help mums and dads navigate life’s complexities.

Send us Fan MailIn this captivating episode of The Playground Podcast, host Shamim Kassibawi sits down with Real Housewives of Dubai stars and entrepreneurs, Caroline Stanbury and Sergio Carrillo. Join us for an exclusive, no-holds-barred conversation that goes far beyond the glitz and glam of reality TV. Caroline and Sergio open up about life beyond the cameras, sharing insights on their entrepreneurial journeys, future business plans, and upcoming projects.They don’t shy away from the personal either – Caroline speaks candidly about her decision to leave a marriage after 18 years, navigate parenting teenage kids, and embrace a relationship with Sergio, who’s 19 years her junior. With plans for surrogacy on the horizon, Caroline and Sergio offer a rare glimpse into their lives and the resilience it takes to thrive in the face of judgment.From discussing Caroline’s honest approach on social media, where she covers everything from weight loss to her facelift, to their views on life in the spotlight, this episode is filled with humor, authenticity, and heartfelt moments. Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply curious about their journey, this is a must-listen for anyone seeking a real, raw look into the lives of two bold personalities.

Send us Fan MailIn this warm episode of The Playground Podcast, our host Shamim Kassibawi sits down with Principal Lisa, a beloved figure known as the "godmother" to countless children in Dubai. With a huge following on social media and a reputation for being a beacon of support to families, Principal Lisa shares her inspiring story. Growing up, she always knew she wanted to support families and work with children. From juggling her training as a teacher while raising three kids of her own, to dedicating herself to working with children that others often excluded—those with special needs—Principal Lisa's journey has been one of compassion and resilience. She also shares her experience working in a high school with older children who faced challenges like hunger and neglect, which led her to set up a community group to provide much-needed support.Principal Lisa opens up about her relationship with her husband, how their life was entwined with her demanding job, and how this eventually led to their move to Dubai. She tells the incredible story of how a phone call from Dubai changed their lives, leading them from a 300-year-old house in the UK to a modern apartment on the 70th floor in Dubai Marina. In a twist of fate, two years before their move, Lisa had written in her journal about wanting to move to Dubai and had even taken a picture in front of the building they ended up calling home.Today, Principal Lisa continues her mission by supporting families in Dubai and around the world. She shares insights into common parenting challenges, such as knowing when to seek help, the importance of not getting stuck in the infant stage, tips on toilet training by 18 months, and feeding practices that aid in speech development.Whether you’re a parent of young children or someone looking for wisdom from a seasoned educator, this episode with Principal Lisa is a must-listen. Her story and advice are not just valuable for those in Dubai but resonate with families globally. Tune in to learn from the experiences of Dubai's very own godmother!

Send us Fan MailIn this enlightening episode of The Playground, Shamim Kassibawi welcomes Zahra Abdalla, a mother of three teenage boys, award-winning cookbook author, entrepreneur, and creative director. As the first mother of teenagers to join the podcast, Zahra brings a fresh and insightful perspective to the conversation.Join us as Zahra shares her journey and wisdom on:Manifestation: Zahra delves into how she practices manifestation and its impact on her life.Love for Reading: Discover her favorite books and the importance of reading in her life.Therapy and Trauma: Zahra emphasizes the importance of therapy for parents and dealing with past traumas.Raising Teenagers: Learn her approach to befriending, coaching, and guiding teenagers through their formative years.Overcoming Adversity: Zahra opens up about her challenging 30s, including being diagnosed with cancer while pregnant, and her healing journey.Medication vs. Therapy: Insights on choosing between medication and therapy for mental health.Encouraging Failure: The importance of teaching children to fail and learn from their mistakes.Marriage Growth: Tips on strengthening relationships and keeping personal details private.Mother’s Energy: How a mother’s energy shapes the household and why she is the core of the family.This episode is a treasure trove of advice, particularly for mums navigating the early years of motherhood. Zahra’s experiences in her 30s have profoundly transformed her life, and she shares valuable lessons for making the most of your 40s. She wraps up with a powerful message to all mums: YOU ARE ENOUGH.Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation that you won’t want to miss!

Send us Fan MailWelcome to another insightful episode of "The Playground Podcast"! This week, we're thrilled to have our first male guest, the renowned media personality and father of three, Hassan Al Sheikh. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of modern-day parenting with Hassan, who shares his wisdom and experiences on raising children in today's fast-paced world.In this episode, Hassan opens up about the challenges and joys of keeping cultural traditions alive while navigating the influences of the online world. We discuss effective discipline styles, and Hassan offers invaluable advice on teaching children right from wrong.As we wrap up, Hassan leaves us with a heartwarming perspective on what success in parenting means to him, providing a touching conclusion that will resonate with parents everywhere.Recorded primarily in Arabic, this episode is a perfect listen for Middle Eastern families around the globe. Tune in to "The Playground" for an engaging conversation that blends cultural insights with practical parenting tips.

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt and candid episode of The Playground, we sit down with Tala Ardalan, a new mother who bravely shares her journey through the challenges of parenting during the 2020 Covid pandemic. Tala opens up about the two years she battled depression, the struggle to manage her social circle, and the empowering process of learning to say no and doing things her way with her child.Listen as Tala discusses her unique approaches to discipline, her favorite brands for both mom and baby, and the importance of self-care in her parenting journey. She also shares touching stories about her two beloved dogs and reflects on her lifelong dream of becoming a mother.Tala's conversation is honest and open, shedding light on the often unspoken struggles new mothers face due to societal pressures. Her story is a powerful reminder that postpartum depression is real and that many of us silently endure it. Join us for an episode that offers comfort, solidarity, and valuable insights for all parents.Tune in to The Playground for an inspiring conversation with Tala Ardalan, where authenticity and resilience take center stage.

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode of The Playground, we are joined by the incredible Dina Butti, an Egyptian/Canadian TV presenter, content creator, and voiceover artist. Dina, a mother of two energetic boys, shares her deeply personal journey through motherhood, starting with the shocking moment she lost her job the same week she discovered she was pregnant.Dina opens up about her battles with anxiety and the pressures of self-imposed expectations and body image issues. She candidly discusses how these challenges have shaped her journey as a mother and a professional.Discover how Dina transitioned into the world of content creation, building a successful career while balancing the demands of motherhood. She also shares her favorite baby brands, invaluable tips for mothers returning to work, and so much more.Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with honesty, resilience, and practical advice that every parent can relate to and learn from. Don’t miss this episode of The Playground!Guest:Dina Butti - Egyptian/Canadian TV Presenter, Content Creator, and Voiceover ArtistTopics Covered:Dina's personal journey through job loss and pregnancyManaging anxiety and self-expectationsBody image challenges as a motherTransitioning to content creationFavorite baby brands and productsTips for mothers returning to workSubscribe to The Playground for more insightful and inspiring parenting stories and advice.

Send us Fan MailWelcome to another insightful episode of The Playground! Today, we are thrilled to have the incredibly multifaceted Nina Zandnia as our guest. Nina, a Persian/Swedish dynamo who grew up between New York and Sweden, is now making waves in Dubai. As a TV Presenter, United Nations Speaker, Producer, Director, Public Speaker, and Moderator, Nina has had a vibrant career that started at the young age of 14 when she hosted a children's show.In this episode, Nina shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey to motherhood. She opens up about the challenges she faced, including her experience with IVF and egg freezing, shedding light on the often unspoken low success rates and the stigma that surrounds these topics.Nina also discusses the vibrant influencer scene in Dubai, where she became one of the most recognized faces in the fashion industry back in 2008. Her candid conversation covers the highs and lows of being an influencer and the pressures that come with it.Join us as Nina Zandnia takes us through her extraordinary life, offering valuable insights and advice for anyone navigating the complex worlds of media, fertility, and motherhood. Whether you're a parent, aspiring influencer, or someone interested in the intricacies of IVF, this episode is packed with wisdom and heartfelt experiences.Tune in to The Playground and be inspired by Nina's journey of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams.

Send us Fan MailIn this emotionally charged episode of The Playground, we sit down with Alana, a Dubai-based American expat whose journey through motherhood has been marked by profound loss and resilience. After experiencing the devastating loss of her first baby at 20 weeks, just before her wedding in Italy, Alana embarked on a journey to break the silence surrounding miscarriage and infant loss.Launching her Instagram account, ＨＵＭＡＮ | ＩＮＧ, Alana sought to create a safe space for women to share their stories. In our conversation, she courageously opens up about her own experiences, shedding light on the taboo nature of miscarriage and the pervasive shame that often surrounds it.From the highs and lows of motherhood to the sleepless nights and the chaos of raising two boys, Alana shares the raw and unfiltered reality of her daily life. Amidst the challenges, she finds strength in her community and the bond she shares with other women who have walked similar paths.As she eagerly anticipates the arrival of her third baby, Alana reflects on the importance of destigmatizing miscarriage and fostering open conversations about the complexities of motherhood. Join us as we delve into Alana's story of loss, resilience, and the transformative power of sharing our truths.

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Welcome to another insightful episode of "The Playground," where we navigate the world of parenting with expertise, empathy, and a touch of humour. In this episode, our esteemed guest, Dr. Alya Alsuwaidi, an Emirati conscious parenting expert, joins us for a heartfelt conversation on the challenges parents face and the transformative power of conscious parenting.👶 As we delve into the episode, Dr. Alsuwaidi shares her wisdom on handling tantrums, addressing iPad/gaming addiction, and debunking traditional disciplinary methods such as screaming and time-outs. Discover practical and mindful approaches to navigate the rollercoaster of emotions that come with parenting.🤔 Ever wondered about the significance of monitoring your child? Dr. Alsuwaidi sheds light on the importance of active communication, fostering a strong parent-child relationship, and nurturing a friendship with your little ones. Learn how these factors can be the cornerstone for a healthy emotional development in your children.🌈 Join us as we explore the subtle art of connecting with your child, understanding their perspective, and creating a safe space for open dialogue. Dr. Alya Alsuwaidi's invaluable insights will inspire you to embrace a conscious parenting approach, making your journey through parenthood a more enriching and rewarding experience.Tune in to "The Playground" and let's navigate the maze of parenting together! 🌟 #ConsciousParenting #ParentingJourney #ThePlaygroundPodcast #DrAlyaAlsuwaidi

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Get ready to step into the glittering world of the Real Housewives of Dubai on this special episode of The Playground Podcast! In this riveting interview, Shamim Kassibawi sits down with the multi-talented Taleen Marie, the newest sensation to grace the cast. Known for her prowess as a singer/songwriter, fitness entrepreneur, advisor, and investor, Taleen takes us on a rollercoaster ride through the glamorous but demanding life of a Real Housewife and devoted Mum. 👑 Join us as Taleen spills the tea on the upcoming season of The Real Housewives of Dubai. From the jaw-dropping moments to the behind-the-scenes hustle, she shares exclusive insights into the dynamics of the show and how she balances the glitz and glam with the challenges of motherhood. 🤱 But that's not all! Taleen opens up about the raw and real aspects of her journey through pregnancies, the heartbreak of miscarriages, and her battle with postpartum depression. It's a candid conversation that dives deep into the highs and lows of being a Mum in the spotlight. 💪 Discover the secrets behind her success, both in the business world and as a loving mother amidst the chaos of mommy hood! 🌟 Whether you're a fan of reality TV, a fellow Mum navigating the complexities of parenthood, or someone looking for inspiration from a multifaceted powerhouse, this episode of The Playground Podcast is a must-listen! Tune in for laughter, and a peek into the glamorous yet challenging world of Taleen Marie. Subscribe now and join us on The Playground for this exclusive and unfiltered conversation with Taleen Marie! 🎉✨ #RealHousewives #MotherhoodHustle #TaleenMarie #ThePlaygroundPodcast

Send us Fan MailWelcoming a new baby is a thrilling yet challenging journey for every family. In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Cecile, a revered midwife with decades of invaluable experience supporting new parents and their precious bundles of joy. Join us as Cecile delves into the intricacies of this transformative phase. From discussing the evolving role of fathers in modern parenting to the profound changes mothers undergo both physically and emotionally, this conversation offers a treasure trove of insights. Drawing from Cecile’s vast expertise, we explore the holistic approach to nurturing newborns and supporting new parents. Discover the pivotal moments where fathers become pillars of strength and learn about the crucial support systems that contribute to a healthy and harmonious family dynamic. Uncover the biggest challenges that families encounter when their little ones arrive and gain valuable advice on navigating these hurdles with grace and resilience. From sleepless nights to balancing responsibilities, Cecile shares practical tips and heartfelt wisdom to empower families during this beautiful, albeit demanding, chapter of life. Tune in as we unpack the joys, trials, and triumphs of early parenthood with a seasoned midwife who has witnessed the growth of countless families, offering guidance and reassurance along the way.

Send us Fan MailJoin us in this powerful episode as we sit down with the multifaceted Rehab Al Mehairi, an incredible Emirati woman who wears multiple hats with grace and resilience. From being a devoted mother, actress, TV presenter, to a thriving entrepreneur, she shares her inspiring journey through the highs and lows of life.Rehab delves into her deeply personal story, recounting the trials she faced during a tough pregnancy and the emotional hurdles that followed, including the heartbreaking loss of both her parents. With raw honesty, she reflects on how these challenges tested her strength but also shaped her into the resilient woman she is today.In a candid conversation, she sheds light on the profound impact of motherhood, discussing the joys and complexities it brought into her life. From navigating grief to finding solace in the support of a loving husband, Rehab speaks to the importance of therapy in her healing journey, emphasizing the strength and resilience innate in every woman.Throughout this episode, Rehab shares invaluable insights into overcoming adversity, finding inner strength during times of hardship, and the significance of building a supportive community. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit, offering hope and inspiration to anyone facing their own life challenges.Tune in to hear Rehab's incredible journey—a narrative of resilience, love, and the triumph of the human spirit that will leave you inspired and empowered.

Send us Fan MailIn this touching episode, Tina Chikhani Nader, a successful leader, opens up about her personal journey. She bravely discusses the challenges of balancing a demanding career and the emotional turmoil of unsuccessful IVF attempts while navigating motherhood decisions. Tina candidly shares the societal pressures, emotional struggles, and internal conflicts she faced, revealing the resilience needed to overcome setbacks and the valuable lessons learned. Her story highlights the profound impact these experiences had on her perspective as both a professional and a mother.