Stepping out of the lab coat and into the entrepreneurial limelight, Dr. Shabnam Namin brings a fresh face to the beauty game with Genix. This trailblazing biomedical engineer turned skincare maven walks us through her transformative journey, from her roots in Miami to revolutionizing the cosmetic industry. Her academic prowess, combined with a relentless drive to innovate, has given rise to a skincare line that's as scientifically sound as it is beautifying. Tune in as Dr. Shab shares her insights on shaking up the status quo and the exhilaration of trading test tubes for product tubes. As a female force in the STEM world, Dr. Shab's narrative is as inspiring as it is instructive, reminding us of the grit required to break through barriers. Reflecting on her days of navigating male-dominated academia and industry, she encapsulates the evolving landscape for women in science and tech. Her story isn't just about personal triumphs; it's a beacon for young women with their sights set on STEM careers. Dr. Shab doesn't just discuss her path; she lays out a roadmap for how passion and perseverance can lead to carving out one’s niche, all while taking the dive into the competitive skincare market. From placental skincare marvels to juggling the demands of motherhood and business, Dr. Shab's narrative is a masterclass in balance and ambition. We unwrap the secrets behind Genix's innovative approach to beauty and the impact it has on users' confidence. As she recounts her ascent into content creation, we're reminded that growth often comes from stepping into the unfamiliar. Join us for an episode that's not just skin-deep—it's a profound look at the beauty of chasing dreams, the science behind self-confidence, and the art of making a mark on the world, one face at a time.

Welcome back to AWESOME People, and I'm your host, Iman Huschmand, here to bring you another inspired episode with deeper level conversations. Today marks an exceptional moment, as we launch the 2.0 version of our podcast with our first in-person guest, Sogol Afsharjavan.

From a childhood surrounded by palm trees in Iran, to her formative travels across Europe, Sogol developed a profound love for design and languages. These passions have guided her journey from aspiring United Nations interpreter to establishing her own space in the vibrant neighborhood of Miami's south of fifth—a sanctuary for interior design and art exhibits named "Platform."

This episode will take you through Sogol's fascinating story. Discover how her father's advice led her away from flight attendant dreams to teaching languages, which further blossomed into an earnest career in interior design. We'll delve into how Sogol has transformed properties into showcases of design harmony, intertwined with her stint in teaching, all while raising a family and pursuing her profound interest in cultural connections.

Join us as we explore Sogol's vision behind Platform, her intent to confiscate cell phones to foster true human connection, and her ambitious plans for intimate events like "barefoot in the garden." Our conversation will touch upon her transformative journey through the landscapes of Iran, Germany, and Washington, DC, before finding her love for Miami—a city that has witnessed her remarkable tenacity in building a community sanctuary amidst skyrocketing prices and the trials and opportunities born from a global pandemic.

As Sogol shares her invaluable insights into the world of interior design, from the vitality of creating meaningful experiences to the challenges of paperwork, we will illuminate the intricate dance between balancing creativity with business savvy. Learn about her dreams of melding modern and Persian cultures in a high-end restaurant project, her plans to engage the next generation with tactile elements of Persian heritage, and her aspiration to curate private collections.

Stay tuned for an episode brimful of insights, inspiration, and the art of meaningful connection. Welcome to the story of Sogol Afsharjavan—designer, connector, visionary—and indeed, an AWESOME person.

On my most recent birthday, May 31st, I was on a mission to make it special.

I decided to do an AWESOME People episode with a real life warrior who has defied all odds.

His name is Tymaz (which fittingly means “warrior” in Persian) and he’s a 23 year old, 3-time cancer survivor and 2-time bone marrow transfer recipient.

At one point he was told he has 6 months to live.

At another point he was told he would never walk again.

Yet here he is now, standing tall and pursuing his love of music and telling his story through lyrics.

Born in Toronto, Canada Tymaz Baghbani is one of the city's most inspirational hip-hop talents. As a youth, he was on track to becoming a professional soccer player - being scouted by Spanish soccer clubs such as Real Madrid. After beating Leukemia three times, it eventually debilitated his ability to walk for five years. That's where his love for battle rapping began.

He eventually won a rap battle for King of the Dot while in a wheelchair - making him the first artist to do so. Tymaz has gone on to create his own songs where he dives into his story of recovery and overcoming adversity. His story touched close to home because my father has been stricken with the same form of cancer since 2018 called Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

For this reason, I wanted to spend my birthday sharing the story of this strong young man while together, we bring awareness to AML.

I dedicate this episode to everyone that is bravely fighting cancer and the loved ones that are by their side showing unconditional love and support every single minute of every single day. It's undoubtedly the hardest thing I've had to go through in my life, so if you’re in the same boat, know that I can genuinely relate to the rollercoaster of emotions you're going through. BUT, as my father always passionately says, "mohkam boro jolo!" (move fiercly forward).

0:00 - 0:42 AWESOME People Intro

0:42 - Iman introduces the episode

3:37 - Introduction of Tymaz

4:54 - Tymaz’s stor

9:40 - How Tymaz beat cancer

12:12 - Tymaz’s love of soccer

14:43 - What music means to Tymaz

15:32 - Tymaz’s relationship with his mom

16:48 - Finding hope through music

20:45 - Tymaz promos

22:00 - The Sick Kids foundation

23:34 - Advice for sick children and their families

27:27 - Tymaz’s current projects

33:47 - Tymaz’s five year plan

36:25 - Tymaz’s closing message

Keep the faith, Iman Follow us on Instagram: @imanhuschmand @tymaz9 @letsuniteandconquer

Welcome to the conversation. Welcome to AWESOME people.