In Community with Fahad Khawaja

About In Community with Fahad Khawaja

Hosted by Fahad Khawaja, Founder & CEO of Hue, the community-powered media company, episodes dive into conversations with leaders, creators, and culturemakers shaping what’s next. From Fortune 100 innovators to rising entrepreneurs, Fahad uncovers the stories, lessons, and values that unite us — because what connects us is greater than what separates us.

Publisher

incommunitywithfahadkhawaja

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Nov 2025

Latest episode

4 Feb 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   4 Feb 2026

   They've Worked With Beyoncé, Taraji, & Drew—And Led Top Companies. Here Are Their Unexpected Paths

   ► Subscribe 🔔 Across conversations with founders, creators, and leaders, one pattern keeps showing up: the most meaningful careers rarely follow a straight line. In this episode, Fahad curates powerful stories from people who ended up exactly where they were meant to be — but only after unexpected pivots, setbacks, and moments of being seen by the right person at the right time. From engineering to Beyoncé’s digital strategy, from homelessness to CEO, from Hollywood to YouTube, these stories reveal how resilience, community, and openness often matter more than having a perfect plan. If you’re navigating a career pivot, questioning your path, or wondering whether uncertainty is actually pointing you somewhere better — this episode is for you. 🔑 What You’ll Learn:* Why unexpected paths often lead to the most fulfilling success* How mentors and advocates change trajectories* The role adversity plays in shaping long-term leadership* Why the “wrong” job can become the right foundation* How community and connection unlock opportunity This episode is sponsored by Shopify — the platform for those serious about building equity in themselves and their businesses. 00:00 – Introduction: Why careers rarely go as planned02:48 – Dr. Marcus Collins: From engineering to Beyoncé’s digital strategy04:45 – Being seen by the right person at the right moment09:00 – Oshiya Savur: Building celebrity brands that solve real problems11:35 – Why authenticity beats fame13:04 – Everette Taylor: From homelessness to CEO of Kickstarter14:45 – Resilience, discipline, and unbreakable will16:11 – Tiana Conley: Career growth, boundaries, and parenthood18:48 – Bringing your whole self to work21:35 – Tyler Chou: From Hollywood attorney to creator economy23:55 – Reinventing a career during the WGA/SAG strikes25:38 – Maryam Banikarim: Turning “What are we going to do?” into a movement27:00 – The Longest Table goes global30:35 – Zena Arnold: When the “wrong” job becomes the right one32:24 – Lessons from the makeup counter to Sephora leadership34:00 – Jessica Serrano: Launching Taco Bell’s Diablo Sauce with no budget36:30 – Turning resourcefulness into a lasting brand win 🎯 Who This Episode Is For:Anyone navigating a career pivot or moment of uncertainty Creators, founders, and operators building in real time People who believe connection and community create opportunity Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who could benefit from this conversation. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more conversations with creators, founders, and industry leaders building meaningful careers. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

2. 

   1 Feb 2026

   The Creators Attorney Is Helping YouTube Creators Make Millions: Tyler Chou

   Fahad sits down with Tyler Chou — known as “The Creator’s Attorney” — founder of Tyler Chou Law and CreatorArq, where she serves as a legal strategist and business architect for some of YouTube’s biggest creators. After nearly two decades inside Hollywood studios and top law firms, Tyler made the leap into the creator economy to help digital talent do what most never do: turn channels into real businesses. In this conversation, she breaks down why YouTube is the New Hollywood, the legal blind spots that quietly cost creators millions, and how to build assets that can actually be sold — even if your face disappears tomorrow. Whether you’re a creator, operator, or brand working with talent, this episode is a practical roadmap for moving beyond brand deals and building long-term ownership. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why your YouTube channel is not your business — it’s the marketing arm The 7-step creator lifecycle that protects IP, diversifies revenue, and prepares you for exit How one creator jumped from a $35M to $100M valuation in under a year The danger of giving away rights “in perpetuity” without understanding the cost Why creators who rely only on AdSense are one platform change away from collapse 🧭 Episode Highlights From Hollywood to YouTubeTyler shares her journey working on major studio projects before launching a creator-focused law firm — and how a viral video about the Try Guys changed her trajectory. The Seven-Step Creator LifecycleFrom clean IP and trademarks to diversified revenue and exit readiness, Tyler outlines the exact framework creators need to build sustainable businesses. Building Beyond the PlatformCase studies on creators with massive audiences but fragile businesses — and why products, email lists, and standalone assets matter more than subscribers. The Technical Product AdvantageWhy apps and digital products often outperform physical goods: higher margins, fewer headaches, and cleaner exits. For Brands Working With CreatorsWhy long-term partnerships beat one-off deals, how repetition drives conversion, and when equity makes sense. Burnout, Identity, and SustainabilityTyler reflects on her 700-day sprint, burnout, and what it takes to build without burning yourself out. 🎯 Who This Episode is For Creators who want to move beyond brand deals and build sellable businesses Operators and founders navigating IP, monetization, and scale Brands looking to build smarter, longer-term partnerships with creators Anyone serious about turning attention into ownership Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who could benefit from this conversation. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more conversations with creators, founders, and industry leaders building the future of media. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

3. 

   1 Feb 2026

   Gen Z Doesn't Want Your Content. Here's Why: NowThis CEO Sharon Mussalli

   Fahad sits down with Sharon Mussalli — CEO of NowThis, startup builder, and media veteran with experience at Meta, iHeartMedia, and Bustle Digital Group. Sharon shares her journey from a quantitative-minded immigrant upbringing to leading one of the most influential media brands for Gen Z audiences. Together, they explore how relevance beats reach, the power of listening before speaking, and why trust with younger audiences is earned, not given. Whether you're a creator, media professional, or leader building community in the digital age, this conversation offers insights on creating content that resonates, engages, and inspires. 🔑 Key TakeawaysRelevance over reach: why cultural insight matters more than virality.How Gen Z builds trust differently from older generations and why listening is key.Supporting mental well-being and fostering creativity within teams without micromanaging. 🧭 Episode HighlightsFrom Numbers to Narrative Sharon explains how she blends her quantitative background with a love for arts and culture to scale NowThis and create content that speaks directly to Gen Z.Creating Hits, Not Content Sharon shares lessons on empowering creators, spotting cultural relevance, and letting authentic storytelling lead the way. 🎯 Who This Episode is ForCreators and storytellers seeking to understand the Gen Z audience.Leaders and media professionals looking to build trust and community in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.Entrepreneurs navigating how to blend creativity with strategy for sustainable impact. Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who could benefit from this conversation. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of leadership, cultural insight, and digital transformation centering the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

4. 

   1 Feb 2026

   Taraji P. Henson, Drew Barrymore, and more tapped her to build their brands: Oshiya Savur

   Fahad sits down with Oshiya Savur — a business leader, brand strategist, and community builder who has helped celebrities like Taraji P. Henson, Drew Barrymore, Charlotte Tilbury, and more shape brands that resonate with real people. Together, they explore the intersection of celebrity influence, community-driven branding, and sustainable business growth. Whether you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or aspiring brand builder, this conversation offers actionable insights on building trust, creating meaningful engagement, and turning influence into long-term impact. 🔑 Key TakeawaysWhy celebrity brands succeed when they solve real consumer needs and go beyond endorsements.The distinction between fandom and community and why shared values matter more than popularity.How to maintain momentum after a launch and turn first-time customers into loyal advocates.The importance of authenticity, trust, and principled leadership in building brands that last.Lessons from failure, rejection, and pivoting that shaped a resilient and impactful career. 🧭 Episode HighlightsFrom India to InfluenceOshiya shares her journey from growing up in India with progressive, values-driven parents to leading global brands in the US, navigating setbacks, and finding purpose in her career.Building Celebrity BrandsOshiya Savur dives into the mechanics of celebrity branding, the shift from licensing to lifestyle-focused content, and how authentic storytelling creates meaningful consumer connections.Community Over FandomOshiya explains how a loyal community is built on shared values, engagement, and trust, not just admiration for a celebrity or product. 🎯 Who This Episode is ForMarketers and brand leaders aiming to grow communities around their products.Entrepreneurs and creatives looking to translate influence into lasting business impact.Anyone interested in learning from a career shaped by resilience, strategy, and purpose. Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who could benefit from this conversation. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of leadership, creativity, and impact centering the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

5. 

   10 Jan 2026

   This Gen Z Historian Made History as Yale's First Black Student Body President

   In this episode, Fahad sits down with Kahlil Greene — the Gen Z Historian, a content creator, writer, and speaker helping a new generation understand the present by grounding it in the past. He made history as Yale’s first Black student body president and has reached millions through viral educational content. Together, they explore the intersection of truth and digital advocacy, along with the shift from unpredictable algorithms to owning an audience through an independent newsletter and why true stability comes from investing in yourself. Whether you're a creator, a student of history, or a leader navigating the digital landscape, this conversation offers insights on turning viral moments into a mission-driven career. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why choosing creative autonomy over a "coveted" corporate career can lead to greater fulfillment. The importance of newsletters to protect creators from platform volatility and shadowbanning. Prioritizing health and mental well-being by divesting from social peer pressure. 🧭 Episode Highlights From Yale to Virality Kahlil shares how he remixed his history degree and academic insights to create content that resonates with millions. Scaling Impact Khalil reflects on his journey from viral TikToks to producing a National Geographic docuseries and top-ranked Substack. 🎯 Who This Episode is For Creators and storytellers seeking long-term stability outside of social media algorithms. Leaders interested in how history can be used to navigate modern cultural shifts. Aspiring entrepreneurs deciding between traditional corporate paths and independent creation. Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who could benefit from this conversation. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

6. 

   3 Jan 2026

   Immigrant to Icon: She Transformed New York's Narrative

   Fahad sits down with Maryam Banikarim — an Emmy Award–winning storyteller, TED speaker, founder, podcast host, and C-suite leader who has shaped global brands like Hyatt, Nextdoor, and Gannett. Maryam opens up about her journey as an immigrant from Iran to leading some of the world’s most influential organizations, sharing candid insights on leadership, community, and personal growth. Together, they explore how Maryam has navigated career transitions, led teams with purpose, and built spaces that prioritize authenticity, connection, and impact. She reflects on the power of community, the importance of mentoring and advocacy, and why fostering trust and belonging is essential in professional life. Whether you’re a creator, leader, or professional navigating complex workplaces, this conversation offers practical and inspiring perspectives on leadership, personal development, and community building. 🔑 Key Takeaways How Maryam’s early experiences shaped her approach to leadership and storytelling. Reflections on career growth, mentorship, and advocating for others in professional spaces. The importance of building authentic communities both in and out of the workplace. Practical advice on leading with purpose, fostering trust, and navigating organizational culture. 🧭 Episode Highlights From Immigrant Roots to Global Leadership Maryam shares her transition from immigrant feeling out of place to top leadership roles at major brands — and how her experiences shaped her approach to leadership, culture, and storytelling. Community and Advocacy in Professional Life Maryam reflects on the value of community, mentoring, and supporting others — and why community is central to personal and professional growth. Leading with Authenticity She discusses how to navigate challenges in leadership, cultivate trust, and foster environments where authenticity is valued. 🎯 Who This Episode is For Leaders and executives looking to grow in impact and influence Professionals navigating career transitions or seeking mentorship strategies Creators and storytellers interested in building authentic communities Anyone curious about leadership, culture, and purposeful work Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who could benefit from this conversation. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

7. 

   3 Jan 2026

   Radically Authentic: From Striving Single Mom to Thriving $50 Billion Business Leader

   Fahad sits down with Tiana Conley, VP Corporate Brand & Purpose at Mars, a thoughtful leader and community builder navigating the realities of corporate culture, leadership, and authenticity. Tiana shares her personal journey through the corporate landscape — reflecting on the environments that shaped her growth, the moments that tested her values, and the communities that helped her stay grounded. Tiana opens up about balancing career and personal life as a single mother, the emotional weight of navigating toxic workplace dynamics, and why career growth often depends as much on advocacy and trust as it does on talent. She speaks candidly about the challenge of showing up authentically at work — and why authenticity, though difficult, is essential for long-term fulfillment and impact. Together, they explore the evolving nature of corporate culture, the role of community in professional success, and how leaders can create environments where people feel supported, seen, and empowered. Tiana offers grounded insights on building trust, valuing diversity in decision-making, and prioritizing personal well-being alongside ambition. Whether you’re navigating corporate life, building a brand, or leading teams — this conversation offers perspective on growth, connection, and creating spaces where people can truly thrive. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why corporate workplaces can become toxic — and how community helps counterbalance that reality. How career growth depends not just on talent, but on advocacy, trust, and support. Why authenticity at work is challenging — but necessary for sustainable success. The importance of building intentional professional communities. How diversity and inclusion strengthen leadership and brand authenticity. Why personal well-being is deeply connected to professional performance. 🧭 Episode Highlights Navigating Corporate Culture with IntentionTiana reflects on the realities of corporate life and the importance of choosing environments that align with your values. Community, Trust, and Authentic LeadershipA candid discussion on why trust is built through consistency — and how leaders can foster spaces where authenticity is encouraged. 🎯 Who This Episode is For Professionals navigating corporate culture and career growth Leaders seeking to build authentic, inclusive teams Individuals prioritizing community, trust, and well-being at work Anyone exploring what meaningful leadership looks like today Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who could benefit from this conversation. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

8. 

   22 Dec 2025

   Baby brands failed her, so this founder spent years solving her own problem

   In this episode, Fahad sits down with Meng Li, founder of Huhu — a modern baby brand born from lived experience, thoughtful design, and entrepreneurial grit. Meng shares how becoming a parent during lockdown exposed the overwhelm of traditional baby products and sparked her journey to build something better. Meng opens up about growing up, her early career across nonprofits and large corporations, and what ultimately drew her into the startup world. She reflects on rediscovering her passion for consumer products, identifying gaps in the market, and designing products rooted in real parental needs — not trends. Together, they explore the realities of entrepreneurship: launching a consumer brand, navigating e-commerce and word-of-mouth growth, and building momentum when everything feels hard. Meng offers candid advice on product quality, positioning, and why self-motivation becomes one of a founder’s most critical skills. Whether you’re a founder, parent, or aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation offers grounded insights on turning personal challenges into meaningful products — and building brands with intention. 🔑 Key Takeaways How parenting during lockdown led Meng to identify a gap in the baby products market Why her career across nonprofits, corporations, and startups shaped her entrepreneurial mindset The importance of product design rooted in real-world parental pain points How e-commerce, assortment, and word of mouth drive early brand growth Why quality, positioning, and self-motivation matter at every stage 🎯 Who This Episode is For Aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage founders Parents curious about thoughtfully designed baby products Builders navigating product-market fit and brand positioning Anyone interested in turning lived experience into business opportunity Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs to hear Meng’s story. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

9. 

   14 Dec 2025

   She runs one of the biggest awards shows - but she was supposed to be a doctor

   In this episode, Fahad sits down with Junmian Sun, the Managing Director of the Shorty Awards — a leader at the heart of digital creativity and social media innovation. Junmian opens up about her journey from nonprofit policy to the top of one of the world’s most influential digital awards platforms, sharing insights on leadership, growth, and what success can look like. Together, they explore how Junmian has shaped her career and is now at the center of the shifting landscape of digital media and community. Junmian offers candid reflections on the power of your network, adaptability, and the importance of uplifting creators and brands that are defining culture. Whether you’re a creator, marketer, or leader navigating the future of digital storytelling — this conversation offers insights into creativity, impact, and building platforms that matter. 🔑 Key Takeaways How Junmian’s early career laid the groundwork for strategic thinking in marketing and events — from operations to global recognition platforms. Reflections on her story, changes in industry, and the value of growth and iteration in creative careers. Practical advice on navigating advertising, building community, and aligning creativity with impact. 🧭 Episode Highlights • From Immigrant Roots to Global Leadership Junmian shares her transition from early roles into strategic operations and events — and how that foundation shaped her leading the Shorty Awards. • Advice for Emerging Leaders Junmian reflects on persistence and learning — even when everything isn't just rainbows and unicorns (and why that’s part of every success story). 🎯 Who This Episode is For Marketers, brand builders, and digital storytellers seeking strategic perspective Creators navigating the evolving landscape of social media and digital recognition Entrepreneurs and leaders interested in purpose-driven platforms and community impact Anyone curious about high-caliber creative work getting recognized and elevated If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs to hear Junmian’s story. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit ⁠⁠incommunity.wearehue.org⁠⁠ to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

10. 

    6 Dec 2025

    He built Beyonce's digital strategy and discovered the Beyhive: Dr. Marcus Collins

    In this episode, our host sits down with Dr. Marcus Collins — a culture expert, former digital strategy leader for Beyoncé, and current marketing professor — to explore how culture, identity, and storytelling can shape brands, communities, and impact. Marcus shares his journey from engineering student to digital strategy leader to author and thought leader, opening up about what it takes to build meaningful brands rooted in cultural significance and authenticity. Together, they dive into Marcus’s path: how he discovered his passion, the mindset shifts that defined his career, and how he leveraged culture to create communities, not just consumers. You’ll hear honest reflections on risk, perseverance, authenticity, and the power of storytelling as a vessel for cultural connection and collective meaning. Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, marketer, or simply curious about the intersection of culture and business — this conversation offers deep, actionable insights on building with purpose and resonating beyond the surface. 🔑 Key Takeaways How Marcus turned a background in engineering into a career rooted in culture, branding, and community — embracing serendipity, risk, and readiness. Why identity and cultural proximity matter: culture isn’t just an add-on, it’s the “cheat code” for human connection and behavior. The importance of storytelling: how treating people as humans, not consumers, builds trust, tribe, and long-term loyalty. What it means to “facilitate community, not manufacture fans”: real influence comes from recognizing and validating existing cultural tribes. Practical advice on leadership, brand building and purpose: build with conviction, empathy, and cultural authenticity rather than chasing trends. 🧭 Episode Highlights• From Engineer to Cultural MarketerMarcus recounts how his academic background (engineering + MBA) became the foundation for a nontraditional career path — entering marketing, struggling through uncertainty, and eventually finding his unique voice. • The Beyoncé Chapter — Learning What Community MeansHe opens up about his time working on digital strategy for Beyoncé: building not just a fan base, but nurturing an organic community (the “Beyhive”) by tapping into shared values, authenticity, and respect for audience identity. • Culture as the Underlying FrameworkMarcus defines what “culture” really means — not just trends, but shared beliefs, language, stories, and how people make meaning. He explains why brands that succeed are those that immerse themselves in this fabric. • Branding With Purpose and EmpathyThe conversation dives into how brands — whether companies, artists, or organizations — can create resonance by aligning with human truths, values, and emotional depth rather than chasing superficial metrics. • Advice for Creatives, Entrepreneurs & MarketersMarcus breaks down practical guidance: be ready for opportunity, do more than the minimum, stay true to your vision, and build bridges through storytelling, trust, and shared purpose. 🎯 Who This Episode is For Marketing leaders, brand builders, entrepreneurs wanting to build with purpose Creators, artists, or anyone trying to build communities rather than just audiences People navigating identity, culture, and looking for meaningful ways to connect with others Anyone curious about the inner workings of culture-driven success and impactful storytelling If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs to hear Marcus’s story. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit incommunity.wearehue.org to sign up for the newsletter and stay connected with our community. 📚 Related Resources & Further Reading Marcus’s book For The Cultu

11. 

    29 Nov 2025

    From Floundering to Food Innovator: This Latina Leader Invented Diablo Sauce

    In this episode, our host sits down with Jessica Serrano, Chief Marketing Officer at Bagel Brands — a bold Latina leader who invented the fiery and now-famous Diablo sauce, who shares her journey from uncertainty to success. Jessica opens up about her early struggles feeling like “a fish out of water,” navigating identity, growth, and what it takes to build meaningful brands. Together, they explore the pivotal moments and mindset shifts that shaped her path: from charting her path to discovering her passion, embracing new ways of working, and ultimately turning that passion into brands that resonated deeply with customers. Jessica shares frank reflections on learning, community, and what it means to build a business rooted in what guests and customers need. Whether you’re a creator, aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone drawn to stories of growth and transformation — this conversation offers actionable insights on turning personal challenges into creative fuel and scaling a brand. 🔑 Key Takeaways How Jessica turned feeling lost and out of place into the spark for growth — the emotional catalyst that drove her to build differently. Why embracing her identity shaped her creative vision — and how authenticity became part of her foundation. The risks, learning as you go, and lessons along her journey — from early uncertainty to strategic growth. How seemingly simple ideas fueled brands with heart, soul, and community — and why certain products can stand out. Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders — from mindset shifts, creative courage, to scaling without sacrificing authenticity. 🧭 Episode Highlights • From Feeling Like an Outsider to Discovering Purpose Jessica shares what it was like growing up knowing she didn’t fit in — and how that feeling eventually pushed her to seek something different rather than follow a known path. • The Birth of Her Food Career & Creative Spark We hear how she turned an idea (the sauce) into an enduring product that people love: what inspired the first batch, the process of developing it, and the early lessons in trying to stand out with creative marketing. • Identity, Culture & Authenticity in Business We dive into why her unique background made all the difference for her — and how cultural identity influenced everything from development and branding to community building. • Growth, Creative Problem Solving, and the Realities of Marketing Jessica reflects on how her uncertainty — and the right mentors — helped her showcase her abilities. • Building With Purpose How purpose in understanding guests and customers shaped her mission, attracted loyal customers, and turned a personal passion into a meaningful career with impact. 🎯 Who This Episode is For Marketing leaders, creators, and entrepreneurs looking for real-life inspiration Anyone navigating identity, culture, or self-doubt and seeking direction Food lovers curious about the story behind a well-known and much-loved product Future founders thinking about building with purpose and authenticity If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs to hear Jessica’s story. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit incommunity.wearehue.org to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

12. 

    28 Nov 2025

    From Rock Bottom to Beauty Boss, with Zena Arnold, Chief Marketing Officer at Sephora

    In this powerful episode of In Community with Fahad Khawaja, we sit down with Zena Arnold, CMO of Sephora US, to explore her journey from a major early-career setback to leading marketing in the US for the world's largest retailer. Zena opens up about crisis early in her career, taking nontraditional roles, and taking bold risks that accelerated her career. Her story is a testament to resilience, a growth mindset, and the power of perseverance. Whether you're navigating your own career pivot or striving to reinvent yourself in leadership, Zena’s insights will inspire, challenge, and empower you. Guest Bio Zena Arnold brings decades of marketing leadership to her role as Sephora’s US Chief Marketing Officer. She oversees everything from media and creative communications to loyalty, promotions, and operations — all while building personalized, memorable experiences for Sephora’s diverse beauty community. Before Sephora, Zena held senior roles at global consumer brands including PepsiCo, Kimberly-Clark, Google, Kellogg, and Procter & Gamble. Key Takeaways / Topics Covered The Early Setback: Zena shares the moment early in her career when things went wrong — what happened, how she felt, and why it became a turning point. Nontraditional Roles & Risk-Taking: How Zena intentionally took on roles that weren’t “safe” or conventional — and why embracing uncertainty became a superpower in her growth. Growth Mindset in Practice: The mental shifts, self-awareness, and discipline she developed to bounce back stronger. Leadership & Marketing at Sephora: How she blends her passion for beauty with purpose, creating differentiated marketing touchpoints — from loyalty programs to creative campaigns — that deeply resonate with Sephora’s community. Perseverance & Resilience: Lessons on bouncing back, staying committed to long-term goals, and believing in your vision when things don’t make sense yet. Advice for Others: Practical wisdom for anyone looking to reinvent their career, overcome obstacles, or lead with purpose. Zena Arnold’s journey is proof that a career can be built — not in spite of failure, but because of it. Her path from hardship to leadership offers actionable lessons in courage, self-discovery, and the kind of persistence it takes to create your own narrative. For anyone feeling stuck or uncertain, this conversation delivers hope, strategy, and real talk. Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit incommunity.wearehue.org to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

13. 

    18 Nov 2025

    From Homeless to $9B Funded, with Everette Taylor, CEO at Kickstarter

    In this powerful episode, Fahad Khawaja sits down with Everette Taylor—renowned marketing leader, creative entrepreneur, and CEO known for helping companies drive sustainable growth. Everette opens up about his remarkable journey from experiencing homelessness as a teenager to becoming one of the most influential voices in modern marketing and brand strategy. Fahad and Everette explore the pivotal moments that shaped his path: early survival challenges, the spark that first pushed him toward entrepreneurship, and the mindset shifts that helped him turn adversity into momentum. Everette shares how he built his career without traditional access or networks, why authentic storytelling drives today’s strongest brands, and how community and culture fueled his growth. Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, marketer, or leader, this conversation offers actionable insights on resilience, creativity, and what it truly takes to scale companies—and yourself. 🔑 Key Takeaways How Everette transformed homelessness and instability into the foundation for long-term success The moment he discovered marketing and entrepreneurship as a path forward Why representation and community continue to shape his leadership The creative and strategic principles behind building brands that resonate Lessons learned from helping companies scale to billions in value 🧭 Episode Highlights Early life and challenges Finding entrepreneurship and breaking into marketing Building authentic relationships without traditional access Scaling brands, teams, and companies What’s next for Everette—and his advice for the next generation Subscribe at youtube.com/@fahad.future to get more stories of transformation and leadership from the rising majority. Leave a review and share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs inspiration to take their next leap. Join the conversation — visit incommunity.wearehue.org to connect, share your thoughts, and engage with our community.

14. 

    7 Nov 2025

    In Community Series Announcement

    Welcome to In Community with Fahad Khawaja — a new podcast on community, connection, and collective growth. In this trailer, we share what’s ahead: stories of people and projects building community and a more connected future where we all have our voices heard. Subscribe now and join us — because what connects us is greater than what separates us.

Contact In Community with Fahad Khawaja

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.