How Does It Work?

Want to know how to build your own startup? Write a book? Or get big on Spotify? Hosted by Shayan Mahmud, entrepreneur, TEDxSpeaker and an honouree of Forbes 30 under 30, How Does It Work shares the unfiltered journeys of people who have achieved greatness and know how to make it in the Pakistani environment. Tune in every Friday at 8 PM to listen to the industry experts, thinkers and influencers and get the ultimate guide on How it works!

The Unbelievable Story of Captain Karnal Sher Khan Ft. Dr. Hassaan Bokhari SE2EP5

In this episode, we sit down with historian and author Dr. Hassaan Bokhari to uncover the heroic story of Captain Karnal Sher Khan, one of Pakistan’s most decorated war heroes, awarded the Nishan-e-Haider for his unmatched bravery in the Kargil War. We explore who he truly was, his final stand on the battlefield, and the critical strategic failures surrounding the 1999 conflict. Was Kargil a military misstep? What lessons should Pakistan take from this chapter of history? This is not just a t...

07-17
01:00:51

Can Two Nuclear Rivals in South Asia Ever Find Peace? Ft. Dr. Ilhan Niaz SE2EP4

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ilhan Niaz, renowned historian and political analyst, to explore one of the most pressing questions in South Asia: Can peace follow war between two nuclear rivals? We revisit historical peace efforts, examine the fallout of the May 2025, and unpack the hardline stances taken by both nations. From cross-border terrorism and Kashmir to global influence, this is a deep dive into diplomacy, conflict, and the elusive road to peace. #PakistanIndiaWar #Peace #...

07-16
01:05:35

Balochistan Conflict and Hybrid Regimes Ft. Zahid Hussain SE2EP3

In this episode of How Does It Work, senior journalist and author Zahid Hussain shares deep insights from his decades-long career. We explore the root causes of terrorism in Pakistan, the longstanding Balochistan conflict, the Akbar Bugti issue, and how hybrid regimes have shaped Pakistan’s governance. From nuclear security to political power struggles and India’s alleged role, Zahid Hussain offers a compelling breakdown of Pakistan’s most pressing internal challenges. #ZahidHussain #Balochi...

07-16
01:07:21

The Unbelievable Story Of Pakistan’s ‘Gold King’ Seth Abid Ft. Abdullah Niazi

In this episode of How Does It Work, we uncover the mysterious and controversial life of Seth Abid with journalist Abdullah Niazi from Pakistan Today. Was he a smuggler, a shadow financier, or a national hero? From gold smuggling to government ties and stock manipulation, we explore the story of one of Pakistan’s most enigmatic figures. #SethAbid #Story #HDIWPodcast

07-03
50:17

Nuclear War: Israel-Iran & Pakistan-India Threats Explained Ft. Pervez Hoodbhoy

In this episode of How Does It Work, renowned nuclear physicist Pervez Hoodbhoy unpacks the terrifying realities of modern warfare from the threat of nuclear escalation in the Iran-Israel conflict to Pakistan and India’s atomic red lines. We also explore AI’s role in warfare, the myth of the Iron Dome, the Samson Option, and Pakistan’s historical ties to Iran’s nuclear program. A must-watch deep dive into the future of global security and the ethics of nuclear power. #israeliranwar #p...

07-03
01:07:39

Shark Tank, Startup Failures & Pakistan’s Tech Future Ft. Rabeel Warraich

In this episode, we are joined by Rabeel Warraich, a leading VC investor and Founder & CEO of Sarmayacar, to discuss the reality of Shark Tank Pakistan, its success, and key takeaways. We also explore the reaction of Shark Tank India, analyze startup failures in Pakistan, and discuss the future of tech, foreign investments, and the role of the government in shaping the startup ecosystem. #sharktankpakistan #pakistanistartups #hdiwpodcast

03-09
47:20

Hamza Ali Abbasi’s Discovery of God, Islam, and Judgement Day

In this episode, we are joined by Pakistan’s renowned actor and director, Hamza Ali Abbasi. Best known for his roles in Pyarey Afzal and Mann Mayal, He is now starring in the drama serial Farar on Green Entertainment. We delve into his spiritual journey, his discovery of God, his thoughts on Islam, and his perspective on Judgement Day. Hamza shares his experience of navigating the entertainment industry while staying true to his faith and discusses misconceptions about Islam, the impact of s...

03-09
01:16:10

Love, Lies, and Family Ties: Why Marriages Struggle in Pakistan Ft. Dr. Sheeza Mohsin

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Sheeza Mohsin, an Executive Coach and Relationship Expert, dives deep into the complexities of marriage and family dynamics in Pakistan. Specializing in Multicultural Family Dynamics, Intergenerational Conflicts, and Marriage, Dr. Sheeza offers valuable insights into handling family disagreements, navigating societal pressures, and overcoming relational challenges like trust, infidelity, and communication gaps. Watch as she discusses red flags, ca...

03-09
46:44

The Untold Truth Behind Match-Fixing Scandals in Pakistan | Ft. Dr. Nauman Niaz

In this episode, we are joined by cricket expert and author Dr. Nauman Niaz to uncover the dark side of match-fixing and spot-fixing in Pakistan cricket. We discuss the key scandals from the 1990s and 2000s, the infamous 2010 spot-fixing case, and how these incidents shaped the future of Pakistan cricket. From Justice Qayyum’s report to international trials and the impact of franchise leagues like PSL and IPL, we explore whether corruption in cricket has worsened. Dr. Nauman Niaz shares his f...

03-09
01:05:05

The Parallels Between 1971 and 2024’s Revolution in Bangladesh? Ft. Hassaan Bokhari

In this episode, we are joined by historian and author Hassaan Bokhari to explore whether history is repeating itself in Bangladesh. We discuss the striking similarities between the 1971 Bangladesh movement and the 2024 protests, the role of West Pakistan, the rise of freedom fighters, and the impact of student movements. We also analyze Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, Sheikh Mujeeb’s legacy, and the myths surrounding the 1971 conflict. #1971 #bangladeshprotest #hdiwpodcast

03-09
51:47

Afghan Napoleon: Ahmed Shah Massoud – Hero or Villain of Afghanistan? Ft. Shahzaib Wahlah | EP256

In this episode, seasoned journalist Shahzaib Wahlah joins us to discuss the life and legacy of Ahmad Shah Massoud. Was he a hero or a villain for Afghanistan? We explore his rise as a leader, his battles in Panjshir, his relationship with the ISI and Mullah Omar, and the events leading to his assassination. Tune in for a deep dive into one of Afghanistan’s most debated figures. #afghanistan #story #hdiwpodcast

03-09
53:15

Why Pakistan Has A Bright Future Ft. Jibran Hussain Raza

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jibran Hussain Raza to explore Pakistan’s economic outlook. We discuss whether the Pakistani economy is set to bounce back, and a detailed analysis of the factors contributing to Pakistan’s recovery, including interest rates, CPEC's significance, and the IPP (Independent Power Producer) crisis. Tune in to understand the political and economic conditions of Pakistan and why there’s hope for stability and growth.#Pakistaneconomy #CPEC #howdoesitwork

10-03
45:31

This New Technological Era May Change Pakistan’s Future Ft.Uzair Younus | EP204

In today’s episode, we are joined by Uzair Younus, Principal at The Asia Group, to discuss whether the Pakistani youth can succeed even if the nation struggles. Uzair explains how the youth can leverage decentralization to uplift themselves and how the government can take initiatives to educate the underprivileged and illiterate segments of society.We delve into emerging technologies, energy consumption, electric vehicles, IT revolution, and digital banking in Pakistan, along with the potenti...

08-10
01:17:12

The 1971 War: Its Impact on Bangladesh and Pakistan Today Ft. Dr. Hassan Bokhari | EP203 | Part 2

In this episode, we continue our discussion with Dr. Hassan Bokhari, author and historian, delving into the ongoing impact of the 1971 war on Bangladesh and Pakistan today. Building on our previous conversation, we explore whether anything has changed in both countries since 1971. We examine key historical issues related to the war, its effects on today's unrest and protests in Bangladesh, and the current situation in Pakistan.Sources: Here are the book references at the end.Source: ‘ON SIX C...

08-10
46:01

1971 War: Why Did East Pakistan Start To Hate West Pakistan? Part 1 Ft. Dr.Hassan Bokhari | EP202

In this episode, we have with us Dr. Hassan Bokhari, the author of the novel "Forks In The Road," which explores how the 1971 War and tragedy could have been avoided. We delve into the uncomfortable truths of the 1971 war, discussing various pivotal issues that led to the conflict.Key topics include pre-partition sentiments in Bengal, the economic disparities between Bengal and Pakistan, the language conflict between Urdu and Bengali, and the roles of Ayub Khan and Mujeeb-ur-Rehman.Stay tuned...

08-10
58:05

Inside Pakistan's Intelligence Agencies: Unveiling Secrets Ft. Ali K Chishti | EP201

In today's episode, we have with us Mr. Ali K. Chishti, CEO of The Wire and National Security Head for The Friday Times and Military.com. We dive deep into the workings of Pakistan's intelligence network, exploring the roles, responsibilities, and domains of agencies like the ISI and IB. We also discuss the geopolitical situation and the legal authority of these agencies. Tune in to understand how these agencies operate and their impact on national security.#isi #intelligenceagencies&nbs...

08-10
01:08:36

200th Episode: The Unbelievable Story Of Battling Cancer

In today's milestone 200th episode, we have the inspiring story of battling cancer with Mrs. Naureen Mahmud and Dr. Muhammad Ayaz Mir. We discuss Naureen Mahmud’s courageous journey of survival and the pivotal role her doctor played in helping her fight cancer. This episode serves as a motivating piece of advice for all those suffering from cancer, showcasing how she was able to reclaim her life.Key topics include the diagnosis, treatment, causes of cancer, the differences between benign and ...

07-26
01:13:21

Operation Sunrise: The Unbelievable Story of Laal Masjid Ft. Salman Javed

In this episode, we have with us Mr. Salman Javed, and we discuss the story behind the siege of Lal Masjid. We delve into the events and overall story that led to the issue. Key topics include the history of Operation Sunrise, the role of the Taliban, the fatwa against the Pakistani state, drone strikes, the attack on Chinese nationals, and the role of Naik Muhammad. Additionally, we cover the critical role of Sheikh Essa and his book, the resistance story of Abdul Rasheed Ghazi and Maul...

07-26
01:18:32

Understanding Pakistan’s Energy Crisis Ft. Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari | EP198

In today’s podcast, we are joined by Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari to discuss Pakistan’s ongoing energy crisis. We dive into topics such as IPP agreements, electricity prices, and the privatization of the energy sector, providing valuable insights into the challenges faced by Pakistan’s energy infrastructure.We also explore the role of IPPs, solar power transparency, electricity theft, and potential improvements in the energy sector. Additionally, we delve into the impact of free units for ...

07-26
48:49

The Parallels Between the Rise of India and the Fall of Pakistan Cricket ft. Dr. Nauman Niaz

In today’s episode, we delve into why the PCB must learn from the BCCI with Dr. Nauman Niaz, a renowned Pakistani television personality, cricket correspondent, and author. Recognized for his significant contributions to sports journalism and broadcasting, Dr. Nauman Niaz has been honored with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan's prestigious civil awards.We discuss various critical issues facing the Pakistani cricket team, including their performance in world cups, the evolution of fast bow...

07-13
58:48

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