What happens when a masjid is built—but no one comes?

In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode, Dr. Jihad Turk shares his personal journey: from a disconnected Muslim teen in Arizona, to a dedicated student of knowledge in Medina, to becoming a community builder in California.

He didn't just ask why Muslims weren't coming to the masjid—he built a movement to bring them back.

This is a must-listen for masjid founders, board members, and community leaders wondering how to bridge the gap between tradition and connection in today's world.

🎧 Tune in and don't forget to 🔔 subscribe for future episodes with nonprofit founders, Islamic scholars, and sector experts.

📌Connect and Follow Dr. Tayyab Yunus: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/tayyabyunus/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/tayyabyunus YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@tayyabyunus 🔗 Connect and follow Dr. Jihad Turk: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jihadmturk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jihad-turk-ed-d-7920ba6/

00:00 - Welcome and Intro: Why Muslims Aren't Coming to the Masjid

01:45 - Dr. Jihad Turk's Early Life & Spiritual Search

06:30 - The Power of Mentorship & Finding Authentic Islamic Knowledge

10:20 - Leaving Engineering to Pursue Islamic Studies

14:10 - Studying in Medina During the Gulf War

18:00 - The Aha Moment in Medina: Finding Purpose & Inner Peace

21:40 - Returning to the U.S. and Facing a Harsh Masjid Culture

24:05 - Discovering the Gap: 300 Muslims at a Party, Not the Masjid

25:40 - Creating a Third Space: Amila is Born

29:10 - How Quran Reflections Opened Hearts

32:00 - Legacy of Amila: 20 Years of Learning and Activism

35:15 - Elevator Advice That Changed His Leadership Forever

37:00 - Closing Reflections & What's Coming in Part 2

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