Yalla & Yap

Hosts Lena, Mariam, Manal, and Deanna unpack an Instagram controversy alleging that Khaled Beydoun received a significant cut from funds raised for Gaza through Human Appeal. They examine whether paid fundraising is ethical, what commissions and overhead typically look like in the nonprofit world, and why transparency with donors is the core issue.Drawing on firsthand nonprofit experience in Gaza, Mariam highlights the importance of verifying NGO registration and on-the-ground work. The group also questions influencer-led fundraising, public callouts, and the impact of online dogpiling, while discussing practical donor due diligence tools and best practices.The episode closes with Ramadan reminders: give generously, ask respectful questions, verify before sharing, and approach influencer-linked donations with care. The show will pause during Ramadan and return after Eid.00:00 $2M Fundraising Accusation Goes Viral — What Happened?00:25 Meet Khaled Beydoun: Lawyer, Professor & Activist Background02:35 Nonprofit Insider Story: Spotting Sketchy NGOs After the 2021 War06:11 Who Is ‘We Are The Peace’? Brand Origins, Mission & Pricing Questions07:44 Did They Jump the Gun? Public Callouts vs Private Accountability09:02 The $7M Raised, 29% Cut Explained — What’s Ethical in Fundraising?09:41 Human Appeal’s Role: Overhead, Disclosure, and Donor Transparency12:27 Khaled’s Response vs Receipts: ‘It Went to My Charity’ Claim16:52 How Fundraiser Commissions Work (and Why People Don’t Know)21:35 Influencers + NGOs: Red Flags, Marketing Arguments, and Who Else Got Paid?27:43 Timing, Epstein Files, and Tools to Vet Charities (Nonprofit Explorer)29:39 Imams vs Influencers: Trust, Kickbacks, and That 29% Cut30:51 NGO Expense Ratios & What Transparency Should Actually Look Like32:07 “Zionist Playbook” Accusations and the Problem With Lazy Labels35:54 What “Grifting” Means: Receipts, Scandals, and Social Media Pile-Ons40:47 Due Diligence 101: Vetting Charities Without Airing Dirty Laundry42:02 Unintended Consequences: Defamation Risk, NGO Scrutiny, and Community Fitna49:19 Real-World Swindling Stories in Muslim Communities (and Why Outrage Happens)51:24 Deanna’s Hot Take: Influencer Culture, Paid Promotions, and “It’s a Job”54:02 Wrap-Up: Ramadan Advice, Give Generously—Ask Respectfully

Join Lena, Mariam and Deeana in this episode of Yalla and Yap, where they host Zeeshan Hafeez, a national candidate for Texas’ 33rd district. Hafeez shares his journey into politics, which began in the wake of the 9/11 attacks while he was the only Muslim student at his liberal arts college and then reignited after October 7, 2023.Hafeez passionately speaks about his campaign’s commitment to addressing domestic issues, ending U.S. financial support for Israeli actions, and prioritizing progressive policies such as universal healthcare, workers’ rights, and abolishing ICE. He calls for collective action and voter registration while sharing his vision of true representation for all Americans. The episode wraps up with fun rapid-fire questions, giving viewers a personal glimpse into Zeeshan Hafeez.00:00 Guest Introduction: Zeeshan Hafeez00:36 Han Ifis' Political Journey02:58 Impact of October 7th and Gaza Conflict04:12 Running for Office: District 3304:42 Campaign Focus: Domestic Issues and Palestine06:28 Challenges and Criticisms09:57 Opponent Profiles and Campaign Strategy12:49 Voter Engagement and Support26:36 Islamophobia and Political Climate37:59 Getting to Know the Candidate38:26 Community Involvement and Public Service39:10 DFW Refugee Outreach Services40:31 Challenges Faced by Refugees42:34 Voting in the Democratic Primary44:35 Supporting Local Organizations52:40 Unapologetic Campaign Values54:20 Motivation and Guiding Principles57:24 Addressing Islamophobia and Bigotry01:05:42 Rapid Fire Questions01:10:00 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of Yalla & Yap, hosts Lena, Deanna, Mariam, and Manal tackle the controversial topic of the 'Trad Wife'. They delve into what it means to embrace traditional gender roles within marriage and family life, examining how this concept applies both within and outside the Muslim community. 00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic: The Traditional Wife00:34 The Final Boss: Nara Smith and Social Media Influence02:03 Misleading Perceptions and the Muslim Family Unit04:13 Generational Differences and Social Media's Impact07:44 Corporate America and the Myth of 'Having It All'14:16 The Reality of Traditional Roles and Financial Pressures19:21 The Importance of Realistic Expectations and Personal Plans27:04 Young Marriages and the Influence of Social Media33:29 The Modern Choice for Women: Respecting Homemakers34:42 Cultural Differences in Maternity Leave35:25 The Shift in Corporate Culture37:52 The Breastfeeding Debate38:35 Balancing Career and Motherhood39:39 The Reality of Corporate America43:56 The Soft Life Movement46:05 Financial Independence and Marriage01:02:01 The Importance of Contentment01:03:41 Concluding Thoughts on Women's Choices

Welcome to Yalla & Yap! Join Lena, Manal, Deanna, and Mariam as they dive into a heated debate about the difficulties of being a stay-at-home mom versus a working mom. Discussing perspectives from a popular divorce lawyer, personal experiences, societal expectations, and cultural influences, the hosts explore what makes motherhood so challenging regardless of the path chosen. From managing time and household responsibilities to navigating societal judgments, this episode unpacks the complexities of modern motherhood. Don't miss the engaging discussion, real-life insights, and the acknowledgment that every mom's journey is unique.00:00 Introduction and Controversial Statement02:00 Context of the Divorce Lawyer's Opinion03:32 Discussion on Stay-at-Home Moms vs. Working Moms05:28 Personal Perspectives on Motherhood09:07 Cultural Expectations and Gender Roles13:02 Challenges of Balancing Work and Family17:45 Debating the Hardships of Stay-at-Home Moms21:37 The Shared Load in Parenting23:46 Final Thoughts on Motherhood and Work38:42 Balancing Motherhood and Work39:30 Societal Value of Stay-at-Home Moms41:10 Idle Time and Infidelity42:16 Different Types of Stay-at-Home Moms42:47 Challenges of Modern Motherhood46:04 Economic Factors and Parenting55:21 The Importance of Community Support56:18 The Role of Technology in Parenting01:04:57 Podcast Launch Party Highlights01:11:30 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode, Lena, Mariam, and Deanna dive into a passionate and engaging discussion on the hotly debated topic of the Vela Hijab brand. They explore its origins, the challenges of being a hijabi in America, and the market landscape for hijab brands. The trio shares personal hijab experiences, discusses the evolution of hijab fashion, and addresses the backlash against Vela. They also touch on broader themes like consumerism, community support, and maintaining modesty while navigating societal pressures. Tune in for an insightful conversation that blends personal stories with critical analysis.00:00 Welcome to Y Yap00:33 The Hijab Brand Vela01:22 Hijab Struggles and Fashion Evolution02:38 Personal Hijab Stories04:28 Hijab Fashion Trends12:37 Vela's Impact and Controversies35:07 Exploring Hijab Brands and Preferences35:54 The Magnet Debate and Hijab Safety36:41 Challenges and Solutions in Hijab Wearing37:57 Supporting Muslim Businesses39:58 The Importance of Quality and Cost in Education45:24 Fashion Trends and Social Pressures49:08 The Impact of War on Personal Grooming01:04:23 Final Thoughts on Hijab and Personal Conduct

Join Lena, Manal, Deanna, and Mariam as they discuss social and political issues, particularly the recognition of Palestine as a state and shifting global opinions about it. Celebrities' support for Palestine, the influence of political figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene, and the strategies of American Muslims in engaging with political movements are also covered. The hosts highlight the importance of unlearning propaganda and recognizing the humanity and rights of oppressed populations. Join the chat on societal and political topics, cultural experiences, and a mix of humor and serious discussion.00:00 Introduction and Instagram Reel Reaction03:06 Travel Stories and Summer Adventures06:16 Hajj Experience and Spiritual Reflections15:00 Celebrity Advocacy and Political Commentary26:25 Psychological Warfare26:43 Unlearning the Truth27:22 The Reluctance to Acknowledge Genocide29:22 Historical Parallels and Modern Implications29:59 The Struggle for Acceptance and Identity30:48 Political Hypocrisy and Double Standards31:44 Shifts in Political Allegiances and Public Opinion36:06 International Reactions and Actions37:29 The Role of Media and Propaganda45:24 Recognition of Palestinian Statehood57:33 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode of Yalla & Yap, Lena, Deanna, and Manal discuss a variety of pressing issues in today's world, including the recent flooding in Texas, ongoing crises in Gaza, and the evolving political landscape in the U.S. They delve into the implications of Zoran Mamdani's political success, the establishment's response to his candidacy, and the intersection of faith, identity, and politics. The conversation also touches on the American media's treatment of Israel, the rise of independent journalism, and the political leanings of figures like Hakeem Jeffries. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!00:00 Introduction and Summer Updates00:33 Texas Floods: A Tragic Event01:17 Political Turmoil and Media Coverage02:56 Zoran's Political Journey05:45 Controversies and Media Bias15:56 Campaign Strategies and Public Opinion28:08 Discussing APAC's Influence on Politicians28:37 Islamophobia in Politics30:08 Highlighting a Rising Political Star31:14 Satirical Commentary on Political Hypocrisy32:23 Criticism of Islamophobic Reactions37:03 Support for Pro-Palestine Stance46:45 Political Shifts and Public Opinion55:54 Concluding Thoughts on Political Change

Lena, Mariam, Manal, and Deanna get into the latest hodgepodge of Middle Eastern news, highlighted by President Trump's recent visit to Abu Dhabi and the grand mosque, marking his first known visit to a Muslim house of worship. They discuss the intricacies of Trump's tour during his second term, including reactions to a controversial $400 million Boeing jet gift from Qatar, as well as his negotiations and diplomatic efforts in the region. The conversation also touches on the complex relationships and power dynamics in the Middle East, with opinions on Trump's evolving policies, his interactions with regional leaders, and the potential implications for global diplomacy. The discussion concludes with personal reflections on the significance of Palestine and hopes for future stability in the Middle East.00:00 Introduction and Hosts00:27 Trump's Visit to Abu Dhabi02:11 Controversial Boeing Jet Gift04:50 Reactions and Political Implications06:21 Trump's Diplomatic Shifts10:28 Middle East Power Dynamics13:35 Qatar's Strategic Moves24:45 Soft Power and Global Influence28:36 Trump and Netanyahu's Tensions29:38 Speculations on Diplomatic Relations30:55 Manipulation and Optics31:56 Reactions to Middle East Politics35:47 Saudi Deal and Normalization40:22 Palestinian Struggles and Perspectives45:15 Hopes and Future Predictions50:09 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of Yalla & Yap, Lena, Manal, and Deanna are joined by special guest Abdullah Khatib to discuss the significance of the Epic City Project and the importance of political engagement within the Muslim community. Reflecting on responses from their previous episode about Epic City, the hosts explore varying community perspectives, including concerns about segregation and the project's financial implications. Abdullah, a local Muslim community organizer and political activist, emphasizes the need for increased voter turnout and political contributions among Muslims to influence local elections and ensure their interests are represented. The discussion underscores the necessity of civic participation as a means to foster community growth and ensure equitable treatment in the political landscape.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:23 Community Reactions to Epic City02:57 Introducing Abdullah Khatib03:16 Epic 2.0: Civic Engagement and Investment10:53 Challenges and Opportunities in Political Engagement20:25 The Importance of Voting and Political Contributions29:45 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

We are back with Season 2! In this episode of Yalla & Yap -  Lena, Mariam, Manal, and Deanna dive deep into the topic of Epic City, a proposed master-planned Muslim community in the DFW area, which has faced significant backlash and investigation from Texas officials. The hosts explore the motivations behind Epic City, the current climate of Islamophobia, and the broader implications for Muslim communities in America. They also touch on personal experiences of maintaining Muslim identity, the role of neighbors and allies, and the importance of strong character and community support. Join us for a thoughtful discussion on faith, resilience, and the challenges of being Muslim in the United States.00:00 Welcome back with Season 2!00:16 Ramadan Reflections and Eid Celebrations01:00 Experiences in Medina and Mecca02:39 Parenting During Ramadan06:05 Growing Muslim Communities in DFW10:38 Epic City: A Controversial Development38:01 Reflecting on Gainesville and Microaggressions38:30 Comments and Reactions from Different Cities39:19 Introduction to Rare Foundation40:18 Racism and Islamophobia in Media41:07 Living as a Muslim in America43:46 Challenges and Fears of Muslim Communities45:49 The Importance of Character and Representation49:57 Debating Epic City and Community Safety57:58 Finding Common Ground with Other Faiths01:09:21 Concluding Thoughts and Positive Notes

Hulu's Muslim Matchmaker is now streaming! Join Lena, Mariam, Manal, and Deanna as they take on the show - sharing their thoughts, discuss, agreeing and definitely disagreeing. And yes, there will be spoilers!00:00 Introduction and Initial Reactions01:13 Diverse Perspectives on Reality TV01:46 Comparisons with Indian Matchmaking02:40 Matchmaking Costs and Community Reactions05:47 The Matchmakers: Yasmeen and Huda11:18 Analyzing the Matches14:59 Cultural and Religious Considerations22:09 Challenges and Criticisms42:26 Islamic Counseling and Matchmaking43:14 Public and Parental Involvement43:41 Physical Attraction in Islam44:46 Engagement and Compatibility45:29 Intentions in Muslim Dating46:15 Cultural and Religious Perspectives46:47 Personal Opinions on the Show50:31 Representation and Criticism01:00:58 Final Thoughts and Reflections01:17:44 Ramadan and Future Plans

Exploring 'Mo': A Groundbreaking Palestinian-American ShowIn this episode of Yalla and Yap, Lena, Mariam, Deanna, and Manal discuss the remarkable impact of the show 'Mo', which centers around a Palestinian American family. The hosts highlight the show's cultural relevance, authenticity, and how it addresses important issues including statelessness, Palestinian diaspora experiences, and cultural appropriation. With personal anecdotes and reflections, they explore the show's immense success, including a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and why it's resonating so profoundly with audiences. Join the conversation and see why 'Mo' is a significant milestone for Palestinian representation in media.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:40 The Show 'Mo' and Its Impact01:44 Season One Highlights02:00 Season Two Relevance03:10 Palestinian Experience in 'Mo'03:53 Mo's Journey and Challenges04:55 Authenticity and Representation11:58 Cultural Appropriation Issues14:27 Palestinian and Hispanic Parallels16:28 Reflecting on Season One and Two of 'Mo'17:09 Understanding Statelessness and Asylum17:50 The Power of Media Over Protests18:08 Navigating Palestinian Identity at Work19:02 Cultural Night and Palestinian Representation20:47 Childhood Memories and Misconceptions21:24 Palestinian Tea and Dessert Traditions23:43 Debating Dessert Preferences27:27 Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations

Recorded on January 23, 2025Join Lena, Mariam, and Deanna in the first week of Making America Great Again, as they dive into the changes on social media with the new administration, explore the complexities of birthright citizenship, and discuss its potential impacts on Arab-Americans. They debate Trump's interpretation of the 14th Amendment, Palestinian statehood challenges, U.S. imperialism, and the global refugee crisis. The hosts also touch upon sensationalized media, TikTok censorship, and executive orders signed in the first 24 hours of the Trump administration. Plus, they uncover the intricacies of immigration fears, white supremacy, intermixing concerns, and how political actions impact various communities.00:00 Introduction and Social Media Changes01:44 Sensationalized News and Birthright Citizenship06:11 Palestinian Struggles and Arab American Perspectives10:46 Immigration Policies and Xenophobia16:00 Undocumented Immigrants and Economic Contributions32:13 White Nationalism and Interracial Marriage32:51 Racism and Tech Industry33:56 Conservatives and Green Energy35:12 Elon Musk and Political Controversies36:03 Nazi Salutes and Political Symbolism39:51 Insecurities of Colonialists43:21 Abortion Laws and Racial Implications46:36 TikTok Ban and Social Media Censorship56:20 Political Pardons and Oligarchy58:03 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

Join Lena, Manal, and Deanna as they discuss the latest developments in Gaza, including the recent ceasefire and President Biden's farewell speech. They analyze the reactions on social media, particularly the backlash against Mahdi Hassan, and delve into the complex political landscape as Trump prepares for his upcoming inauguration. The episode covers a range of topics including the role of various actors in the Gaza situation, the influence of online activism, and the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians. They also touch upon the historical and contemporary issues of identity, mobilization, and advocacy within the Arab and Palestinian communities.00:00 Introduction and Team Update00:44 Biden's Farewell Speech and Trump's Inauguration01:35 Twitter Reactions and Criticisms03:22 Ceasefire and Political Dynamics09:04 Obama's Legacy and Political Hypocrisy17:17 Arab Lobbying and Political Influence21:19 Identity and Advocacy in the Arab Community31:23 Celebrity Influence and Public Statements44:52 Bridgerton Actress and B-List Celebrities45:31 Controversy Surrounding Miss Rachel46:30 Dehumanization and Media Representation47:30 Mormon Representation in Media49:21 Palestinian Rights and Social Media52:03 War Crimes and Civilian Impact53:07 Ceasefire and Future Prospects56:05 Palestinian Diaspora and Identity01:14:14 Challenges of Palestinian Documentation01:22:47 Reflections on Palestinian and Kuwaiti Identity01:27:34 Outro and Final Thoughts

First Episode of 2025: Reactions to New Orleans Attack & Reflections on Mass ShootingsIn this first episode of 2025, Lena, Mariam, and Deanna discuss the tragic New Year's attack in New Orleans, which resulted in the deaths of 14 people and injuries to over 35. The group delves into the background of the suspect, Shamsuddin Jabbar, and explores various perspectives on mass shootings, the impact on veterans, and the societal reactions to such incidents. They also reflect on the Muslim-American experience post-9/11, mental health aspects, and the broader socio-political implications. The episode concludes with thoughts on staying safe in today's world and the importance of systemic changes.00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings00:07 Tragic Incident on Bourbon Street00:53 Initial Reactions and Discussion02:18 Personal Connections to New Orleans05:02 Reflecting on Jimmy Carter's Legacy08:33 Shamsuddin Jabbar's Background13:55 Mass Shootings and Veterans17:06 U.S. Military and Foreign Policy20:23 Speculations and Conspiracy Theories22:24 Misunderstandings and Clarifications22:41 Background and Career of the Subject23:49 Reactions and Public Perception24:44 Historical Context and Comparisons25:45 Statistics and Patterns in Mass Shootings29:42 Media Sensationalism and Bias35:07 Community Reflections Post 9/1141:03 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

In this episode of Yallah & Yap, Lena, Mariam, Manal, and Deanna dive into a lively discussion about the roles of stay-at-home moms versus working moms. The conversation touches on societal expectations, the importance of being present in your children's lives, and balancing personal fulfillment with family responsibilities. The group debates the pros and cons of each role, shares personal experiences, and highlights the necessity of having supportive spouses. Key themes include parenting dynamics, societal pressures, and the evolving definitions of motherhood in modern times. Tune in for an engaging take on what it means to be a mother today, regardless of your career choices.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:24 The Role of Stay-at-Home Moms01:32 Personal Experiences and Perspectives04:00 Balancing Career and Family09:25 Challenges and Evolving Dynamics20:21 Cultural and Societal Expectations23:13 The Reality of Women's Roles in Modern Society24:23 Historical Context: Women in Islam25:37 The TikTok Trend and Financial Dynamics in Marriages27:53 Balancing Career and Family: Personal Experiences30:24 Challenging Misogynistic Views: Women Beyond Traditional Roles33:51 The Importance of Personal Fulfillment and Happiness39:45 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of Yalla & Yap, hosts Lena, Mariam, Manal, and Deanna discuss their personal journeys with social media and their varied perspectives on the role of Muslim influencers today. From the early days of platforms like AOL Instant Messenger to the rise of influencers on Instagram and TikTok, they delve into the ways social media has shaped and influenced their lives. They explore the responsibilities of influencers, particularly hijabi influencers, and the balance between content creation and Islamic values. The conversation also touches on the effects of social media on mental health, the complexities of maintaining authenticity, and the importance of maintaining a moral compass in digital spaces. Tune in for an engaging and insightful discussion on the dynamics of influence, identity, and community.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Backgrounds01:32 Early Social Media Experiences06:55 Defining Influencers08:13 Impact of Influencers on Children12:54 Rise of Muslim Influencers21:36 Influencers and the Palestine Issue30:38 Navigating Influencer Ethics31:17 Moral Compass in Social Media32:13 Balancing Joy and Sensitivity34:12 Hijabi Influencers and Responsibility36:34 The Impact of Social Media Criticism38:12 Personal Growth and Social Media39:26 The Role of Influencers in Shaping Values48:17 The Birth of Our Podcast50:34 Final Thoughts and Reflections

On November 5th, 2024, the American people elected Donald J. Trump, again, to be our 47th president of the United States of America. Trump pulled off what is considered a historic comeback that's never been seen before. We at Yalla & Yap predicted the outcome. The crushing defeat of the Democrats surprised almost everyone. He won all the swing states, all the battleground states. The entire country has essentially shifted to the right. What does that mean for us, Arab American Muslims?

Yalla & Yap and Eddie Espinoza, the Green Party candidate for TX railroad commissioner, met at Arwa Yemeni coffee shop for a meet and greet pop-up event. Hot topics were the war on Gaza and climate change and how your vote matters!https://arwayemenicoffee.comhttps://www.espinoza4tx.com/

Arab American and Muslim voters are now facing a unique and moral dilemma. We know that we have to be part of the political process, but many of us believe that we have very few good options.So, where do we fall? And more importantly, what do we do? And does our vote even count?