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The conversation around working mothers in the Middle East has evolved, but the reality often tells a different story.In this episode of Out of Office, Lamisse Muhtaseb, Managing Director, People and Purpose at Deloitte Middle East, shares an honest look at what it means to return to work as a mother in today’s job market.We reveal:↳ The hidden challenges mothers face when re-entering the workforce and how companies can genuinely help them succeed.↳ Why flexibility is not a favour but a business advantage.↳ How inclusion must go beyond gender and translate into everyday action.↳ The mindset every returning mother needs before stepping back in.If you have ever wondered what it really takes to balance ambition, identity, and motherhood in a region that never slows down, this conversation is a must listen.(00:00:00) Opening: The Hidden Bias Against Returning Mothers(00:01:08) The Middle East Job Market Reality Check(00:03:05) When Compromise Becomes Survival(00:05:36) Beyond the CV: Rethinking What Matters in Hiring(00:06:42) The Maternity Maze: Why New Mothers Struggle to Return(00:08:35) Government Support vs Corporate Reality(00:10:26) The Career Break Stigma(00:11:39) Going to the Source of the Problem(00:15:36) The Business Case for Inclusion(00:17:17) Tackling Unconscious Bias Head-On(00:18:13) The Five-Month Pregnant Candidate Dilemma(00:20:29) The Secret Sauce of Work-Life Balance(00:22:38) Advice for Returning Mothers: Own Your Story(00:25:29) The Success Story: Progress Is PossibleListen on: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5lIDFHFRURyEmEVx5Ksdkw/Apple: Connect with Lamisse: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamisse-muhtaseb-2508522/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamisse_muhtaseb/Follow Our Host: Mark Timms: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktimmsgrg/

A single mum with relentless drive turned her hustle into a business that went on to win Shark Tank. Now, she’s showing what real success looks like beyond the show, and how she became the brand that made it all possible.In this episode of The Brand of You, we sit down with Bana Idris, Founder of B Bronzé, to talk about the journey behind the glow, from building confidence to finding stillness in a world that never slows down.We talk about:↳ How Bana went from dietician to entrepreneur in the beauty space, and the identity shift that came with it.↳ What it takes to stay grounded when the spotlight hits.↳ The power of protecting your energy and learning where to invest it.↳ How motherhood, meditation, and self-belief shaped her as a woman.If you’ve ever wondered what happens after the big win, the quiet growth, the self-doubt, and the rediscovery, this one’s for you.(00:00:00) Opening: From Shark Tank Winner to Personal Brand Powerhouse(00:02:07) The Journey Begins: From Fitness to Instagram Fame(00:03:48) Building Confidence: The Gift of Inner Beauty(00:05:33) Raising a Confident Son While Staying Humble(00:08:06) The Hustler's Mind: When Energy Never Stops(00:11:42) Protecting Your Energy in Business and Life(00:13:15) Identity Evolution: From Dietician to Entrepreneur(00:16:02) Beyond the Shark Tank Title: A Decade of Achievement(00:18:31) Living Life as a Playground: The Philosophy of Play(00:20:44) B-Bronzé Evolution: From Simple Bottle to Global DreamsListen on:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6aRgKmtTKhtsSIAGqrjlrF?si=h8sf2t_mQYuuWvKPARgzfAApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shark-tank-winner-bana-idris-builds-a-personal/id1781880969?i=1000736265830Connect with Bana: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bana-idris-b936737a/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banaidris/B Bronzé: https://www.b-bronze.com/Follow Our Host - Robyn Abou Chedid: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/

The Middle East job market isn’t what it used to be. Power has shifted, AI is creeping into hiring decisions, and many are realising that the so-called “Promised Land” comes with its own fine print.In this episode, we sit down with Rooslán Totrov, Global Executive Talent Acquisition Leader, for a brutally honest take on what’s really happening behind closed doors. From companies posting fake jobs just to “see what’s out there” to treating candidates like swipe options, Rooslán calls out the harsh reality shaping today’s hiring scene.Some hard truths Rooslán shares: ↳ How the job market flipped from candidate-driven to company-led.↳ The ethical dilemma of employers taking advantage of desperate candidates.↳ Why AI keeps failing in leadership hiring.If you’ve ever wondered why landing a job in the Middle East feels more like dating than recruiting, this episode will make you rethink how hiring really works.(00:00:00) Opening: The Brutal Reality of Dubai's Job Market(00:01:02) The Promised Land Misconception(00:02:48) When Hiring Managers Hold All the Cards(00:03:27) The Dark Side of Recruitment: Taking Advantage of Desperation(00:06:46) Survival Strategies for Job Seekers(00:10:18) The 30-40% Pay Cut Reality(00:12:10) Leadership Hiring: Why Gut Feeling Still Rules(00:14:55) The Assessment Game: Tools or Filters?(00:18:22) Hiring Has Turned Into Tinder(00:21:07) AI in Executive Search: A Dangerous Marriage(00:25:58) Speaking Gen Z While Wearing a Tuxedo(00:30:01) Closing: Making Organizations Great AgainListen on: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3hFw3MEwgKJlTjcyRsJRg4?si=S_D5YnBySRC2ikaJWfRZSgApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/has-hiring-in-dubai-turned-into-tinder-roosl%C3%A1n-totrov/id1781880969?i=1000734818806Connect with Rooslán: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/totrov/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ossetiandoriangray/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/totroffFollow Our Host: Mark Timms: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktimmsgrg/

It's not easy working in male-dominated industries.And it's even harder when you're figuring out who you are in the middle of it all.But Emirati women today are showing what's possible: building creative careers, breaking norms and defining empowerment in their own way.In this episode of The Brand of You, we sit down with Jouhayna AlMheiri, the UAE’s youngest female Air Traffic Controller, who is also a TEDx speaker, stand-up comedian, vlogger, and podcaster, to discuss how she is rewriting the rules of success, authenticity, and self-belief.Jouhayna speaks about:↳ What it’s really like being a woman in aviation, and how confidence can change everything.↳ Her divorce and how comedy was her outlet.↳ Why balancing faith, therapy, and life coaching became the foundation of her growth.↳ The truth about financial independence and why self-worth matters more than job titles.If you’re looking for a story (and a laugh) about reinvention and what it means to stay true to yourself in a world full of labels, this episode is for you.(00:00:00) Opening: Breaking Taboos and Finding Identity(00:00:41) The Youngest Female Air Traffic Controller(00:01:32) Behind the Scenes of Air Traffic Control(00:04:14) The Rules of the Sky: Authority and Communication(00:05:48) Beyond the Job Title: Finding True Identity(00:08:07) From Divorce to Comedy: Finding Humor in Heartbreak(00:09:26) Conquering Stage Fright Through Comedy(00:11:29) Becoming 'The Sign' for Other Women(00:14:06) Mental Health, Therapy, and Breaking Aviation Taboos(00:14:54) Navigating Life Transitions and Trusting the Process(00:17:41) The 100-Day Transformation Journey(00:25:09) From TEDx Dreams to Reality(00:27:52) The Real Motivation: Financial Independence and Family(00:30:08) Closing: Inspiration to Do AnythingListen on:Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/01syccZZbVvodnpjjG9SIu?si=IwDAtbl9RPa1Dljga0vbxwApple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/female-emirati-air-traffic-controller-turns-comedian/id1781880969?i=1000733692272Connect with Jouhayna:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jouhayna-almheiri-3206b71a1/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jouhaynaalmheiri/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@jouhaynaalmheirihttps://www.youtube.com/@PressPauseWithJoFollow Our Host - Robyn Abou Chedid:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/

Across the Middle East, the way people work and why they work is changing fast. From the rise of AI to a new wave of Gen Z talent entering the workforce, the region is at a turning point where progress, purpose, and people all collide.In this episode, we sit down with Sherif ElOgeiry, General Manager, HR and General Affairs at Daikin Middle East and Africa, to discuss how AI, cultural shifts, and evolving values are redefining the modern workplace in the region.We explore:↳ Why AI won’t replace humans, but those who use it will replace those who don’t.↳ How Saudi Arabia’s transformation is reshaping jobs, diversity, and opportunity.↳ What Gen Z truly values in an employer, and why Emotional Intelligence and Spiritual Intelligence matter more than IQ.↳ Why companies are hiring for skills over degrees, and the one trait Sherif believes every great hire must have.If you want to understand the future of work in the Middle East and what it really takes to stay relevant, this episode dives into the human side of progress.Listen on:Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/0eA42mMCOix9bxkKNEjsBR?si=aV9MmeQiSWuDsBYqf5OZkgApple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/why-gen-z-wants-more-than-a-paycheck-sherif/id1781880969?i=1000732977698Connect with Sherif:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherif-elogeiry/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherifssociologyspotlight/Follow Our Host:Mark Timms: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktimmsgrg/

Dubai’s job market is thriving, opportunities are everywhere, competition is fierce, and companies are hiring faster than ever. But here’s the catch: people are no longer just chasing salaries, they’re searching for something that actually matters.In this episode, we sit down with Melody Sheybani, Group HR Director at Americana Foods, who about how short-term hiring mindsets are shaping careers and company culture.We explore:↳ Why companies in the GCC keep hiring for speed, not long-term growth.↳ The loyalty gap and how it’s reshaping the modern workforce.↳ What Gen Z really wants from employers (and why most companies still don’t get it).↳ The myth of plug and play hiring and its hidden cost to culture.If you’ve ever wondered why finding a good job in Dubai is hard, this episode will change how you see work, loyalty, and success in Dubai’s fast-moving market.Connect with Melody:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melody-sheybani-1460a22/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melodydubai/Follow our Host Mark Timms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktimmsgrg/

What does it really mean to be emotionally fit? In this episode, we sit down with Rahaf Kobeissi to break down the everyday practices that build emotional awareness, resilience, and regulation and why it matters for your career, workplace, and personal life.We explore:The hidden cost of not setting boundaries.Why expanding your emotional vocabulary is the first step to real self-awareness and stronger relationships.The difference between regulating emotions vs. suppressing them, with tools for staying grounded under pressure.The surprising power of asking “what am I feeling?” before making big decisions.Clarifying the difference between mental health and emotional fitness and why both are essential but often misunderstood.If you’ve ever struggled with boundaries, decision-making under pressure, or feeling stuck in your own emotions, this episode will give you the clarity and tools you need to strengthen your emotional fitness in every part of life.Connect with RahafLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahafkobeissi/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raysyourmentalhealth/Follow the Hosts on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Ali NasirLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alinasirahmed/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alinahmeds

Success comes with pressure—long hours, business travel, client dinners, and constant performance demands. But after 40, your health, energy, and focus become your real competitive edge.In this episode, we sit down with one of the region’s top transformation coaches to talk about what it really takes to stay healthy, perform at your peak, and thrive in high-pressure environments.We cover:Food management: How your relationship with food impacts your energy levels and focusCultural situations: Navigating business outings and social expectations in the Middle East while staying committed to your healthGenetics & longevity: Understanding your body type, recovery needs, and health risks to make smarter lifestyle choicesHabits of high performers who stay sharp, fit, and competitive well beyond 40If you’re a successful leader, entrepreneur, or executive who wants to protect your health, maximise energy, and sustain peak performance, this episode is for you.Follow Kirk for more advice:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirkmiller_/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/menshealthcoach/https://kirkmiller.co.uk/Follow the Host on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Osama MohammadLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammad-osama-8395b88/

This isn’t your typical fitness founder story.Wajdan Gul didn’t come from a fitness background. Neither did his wife and co-founder, Anam Khalid. They had no industry experience, no connections, and when they first shared their vision for SQUATWOLF, a premium gymwear brand born in the Middle East, even their own families didn’t believe it would work.But they believed.And that belief, backed by grit, relentless consistency, and Dubai’s unique spirit of possibility, turned a small bedroom startup into a global fitness brand.In this episode, Wajdan shares:How he and Anam went from zero industry experience to building a performance-led brandWhy the powerful story of coming from the East is so importantThe emotional toll of chasing a dream when no one else can see itThe first sale that changed everythingWhat it really means to keep going when the world says stopThis is a story about more than gymwear.It’s about proving people wrong, building something from nothing, and redefining what’s possible when you lead with purpose, even when no one’s watching.Follow Wajdan's Journey:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wajdan.gul/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wajdan/www.squatwolf.comConnect with our Hosts:Robyn Abou ChedidInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Ahmad AtallaInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/ackieboom/LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmad-atalla-b26552/

In this episode, we sit down with financial wellness coach Carol Glynn to talk about one of the most important and often overwhelming areas of adult life: MONEY. From spending habits to savings goals, Carol shares how to shift your mindset, take control of your finances, and make money feel less stressful. Whether you're just starting your money journey or trying to level up your financial game, this episode gives you simple, empowering advice you can actually use.Connect with Carol:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-glynn/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consciousfinancecoaching/Website: https://www.consciousfinancecoaching.com/Follow the Hosts on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Ali NasirLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alinasirahmed/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alinahmeds

In this episode, we sit down with Ainsley Duncombe, the force behind PropertyFinder's regional expansion before it achieved unicorn status, and now the founder of Off-Market Listing Dubai (OML), where multi-million dollar deals are conducted quietly.We dive into:- Dubai’s booming real estate market- Where savvy investors are putting their money right now and why- Understanding how to purchase a property- How to spot a broker you can actually trust.- What it really takes to succeed in this industryIf you’re thinking of investing in Dubai or just want to understand what’s driving the market, this one’s for you.Connect with Ainsley:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ainsleyduncombe/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ainsleyduncombeFollow the Hosts on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Ahmad AtallaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmad-atalla-b26552/

In this episode, we sit down with Ahmed AlDhraif. A young Emirati professional in HR whose LinkedIn presence has quietly grown to over 160,000 followers. What makes Ahmed’s story remarkable? He never set out to build a personal brand... and yet, he’s built one of the most authentic voices in the region.In this episode, we talk about:→ How his personal brand and presence took shape organically→ What most job seekers in the UAE are currently getting wrong→ The truth about CVs — and why they’re not what gets you hired→ What actually helps you stand out in the job market today→ His personal experience navigating hiring from both sides: as a recruiter and a candidateIf you're trying to get hired, grow your visibility, or figure out where to start, then this conversation is packed with insights that cut through the noise.Follow Ahmed for more expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmedaldhraif/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahmedaldhraifTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ahmedaldhraifwww.tawdheef.comFollow the Host on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Osama MohammadLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammad-osama-8395b88/

Most professionals don’t realise this — how you sound is just as important as what you say.In this chat, Maya Sarji — a leading voice performance and public speaking coach — breaks down the biggest reasons people struggle to sound confident, even when they’re highly capable. It’s not just about fixing one mistake. It’s about understanding how your voice works and using it with purpose.Maya is also one of the most recognisable voice talents in the Middle East, having voiced global campaigns for brands like Nestlé, Lux, Kinder, Etisalat, and Emirates Airline. She knows exactly how to make a voice land — and how to help others do the same.Whether you're leading meetings, pitching to clients, or speaking up in high-stakes rooms, this video will help you:✔️ Identify common voice habits that weaken your message✔️ Learn how to sound more confident, clear, and credible✔️ Develop a voice that reflects your authority and presence in the workplaceThis isn’t just voice training. It’s about owning the way you show up.

This episode is full of sharp, actionable insights.A former 100m sprint champion turned high-performance coach who now works with executives, athletes, and leaders to unlock what actually fuels long-term success. He brings the discipline of elite sport into the boardroom and breaks down leadership in a way that’s both practical and deeply human.We dive into:- Why the environment you create, not just your skillset, is the biggest driver of team performance- The role of masculine and feminine energy in leadership—how to identify it, balance it, and use it to build stronger teams- What modern leadership really demands, and why it’s no longer about titles, but about presence, clarity, and self-awareness…and plenty more real-world lessons from the frontlines of coaching high-performers.If you lead people, or want to, this is the kind of conversation that will sharpen your edge.Connect with Sam:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teamperformanceexperts/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samuelpharveyBraver Leaders:Braver Leaders: https://www.instagram.com/braverleadersteamshttps://www.braverleaders.com/Follow the Host on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Ahmad AtallaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmad-atalla-b26552/

In this episode, Nick Vinckier, VP or Corporate Innnovation at Chalhoub Group shares how staying in corporate didn’t hold him back—it gave him the structure, skills, and stability to fuel his entrepreneurial success.He’s living proof that you don’t have to walk away from a steady paycheck to build something meaningful.Nick takes us inside his mindset shift—how he stopped seeing corporate as a cage and started using it as a launchpad. From navigating red tape to unlocking innovation within the system, he shows how you can be entrepreneurial without going solo.We talk about:Why corporate isn’t the enemy anymoreHow to build momentum without burning bridgesThe underrated advantages of growing within the systemHow to pitch, influence, and create—even in structured environmentsIf you’ve ever wondered how to build your own thing without quitting everything—this is the blueprint.Connect with Nick:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickvinckier/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickvinckierFollow the Host on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Ahmad AtallaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmad-atalla-b26552/

Are you feeling drained, undervalued, or stuck in a toxic work environment? You’re not alone. A toxic boss or a negative workplace culture can seriously impact your mental health, productivity, and career growth. But how do you identify the red flags—and more importantly, what can you do about it?We’re joined by Montserrat Ventosa, a psychologist, educator, and workplace culture specialist dedicated to making work great.Montserrat talks about the biggest warning signs of a toxic workplace, how to handle difficult narcissistic bosses, and smart strategies to set boundaries and protect your mental well-being—so be sure to watch until the end for expert insights and actionable advice.Follow Montserrat for more expert insights:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/montseventosa/Follow the Host on Socials:Robyn AbouchedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Osama MohammadLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammad-osama-8395b88/

Dubai Dating Secrets: The Untold Formula to Finding Love in the City of Glamour!Dubai is a city of endless possibilities—but is it the place to find real love? Between high-flying lifestyles, Instagram-worthy dates, and a fast-paced social scene, navigating romance here can feel like an impossible puzzle. Where do you meet genuine people? How do you avoid the ‘situationship’ trap? And is it even possible to find lasting love in a city built on ambition?For some, the answer comes with a hefty price tag. Christiana Maxion, Dubai’s elite matchmaking expert, is helping ultra-successful men find love—for up to $100,000.We’re diving into the ultimate playbook for finding love in this dazzling metropolis. Whether you're an expat, a local, or newly arrived, these insider tips might just change your love life forever.Listen to discover the truth about dating in Dubai, the rise of luxury matchmaking, and whether money really can buy love.See more of Christiana Maxionhttps://christianamaxion.com/Download her dating app: https://www.themaxion.com/Follow the Host on Socials:Robyn AbouchedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/

Thinking of leaving corporate? Watch this!Amr Hazem, founder of the most loved pet boarding and daycare facility in Dubai, talks all about how he started, the fundamental steps you need to take, and the key strategies for business success - truly turning passion into business.Follow Amr on socials:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amr-hazem-youssef-540aa330/Discover more about these ventures:PetsVille Dubaihttps://petsville.ae/Petshophttps://www.thepetshop.com/Follow the Host on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Ahmad AtallaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmad-atalla-b26552/

Does Leaving Corporate Pay Off? What It Really Takes to SucceedLeaving corporate can feel like a gamble—so what does it take to make it work?Mazen Kanaan bets on his courage and vision; today, he’s a regional success. In this conversation, he shares what it really took to turn uncertainty into opportunity.Co-founder of House of Pops with his wife, Mazen Kanaan reveals why he won Shark Tank but turned down the deal—and what it’s really like building a business with his partner, from the pressures to the wins.Connect with Mazen:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mazenkn/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mazenkn/Follow the Host on Socials:Robyn Abou ChedidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynabouchedid/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlnamedrobyn/Ahmad AtallaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmad-atalla-b26552/