Assalaamu alaikum Internets!  This is Mahin Islam.  Most of y'all know me as a long time host of The Mad Mamluks Podcast.  I recently announced that I will also be working on a solo project in addition to my hosting responsibilities on Mad Mamluks.  While Mad Mamluks is a Muslim podcast, this channel will be something a little different.  While I will interview Muslims I eventually would like to see this channel engage the greater community.  I have several non-Muslims already who have agreed to record content for this show.   Too often we hear complaints that Muslims only talk to themselves so this will be an avenue to have conversations with people who differ with us not only religiously but on all kinds of angles. 

(Co-hosting an episode at ISNA 2016 with Mujahid Fletcher from "Islam in Spanish")

If you enjoy my contribution on The Mad Mamluks and would like to see/listen to me on an additional platform please support this cause!  Too often I've seen podcasters try to raise funds and then never carry through on their work; I have over 3 years of hosting experience on a well known Muslim podcast so I think I have earned the trust that your money will be well spent. 

(Co-hosting a Mad Mamluks show with Nadir and Abu Hafsah from "Islam by Touch" in 2018)

If you want to be part of this new initiative, help me launch by assisting me in covering the costs (Broken down below)

Giving Level 1:  Panasonic Lumix GH4 Camera and Lens (850) - 17 sponsors ($50 each)

Giving Level 2a:  Tascam 720D 4 Input Audio Recorder (300) - 10 sponsors ($30 each)

Giving Level 2b:  Final Cut Video Editing Software for Mac (300) - 10 sponsors ($30 each)

Giving Level 3:  Microphones/Lighting/Stands (450) - 30 sponsors ($15 each)

If you can't contribute at one of these giving levels, every dollar helps.  Some of the other expenses are estimated below. 

Power Pack/Cables/Misc Electronic Accessories/SD Cards - 150

Logo/Theme Music - 100

Website/Email/Podcast Hosting for first 3 months - 200

This comes up just around  2300; I would anticipate spending close to another 500 in the next few months and with crowdfunding fees I am setting my goal at $3,500.  Every dollar helps!  Appreciate you all and I look forward to engaging with you all on both "The Mad Mamluks" and "Sultans and Sneakers".  

(In studio shot from 2017 with Saad Tasleem)

If you want to get on my mailing list, you can do so at info@sultansandsneakers.com.  Also follow this journey on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (Sultans and Sneakers).   We will be posting content soon on all three platforms.