From Fresh Prince to a Profitable Furniture Store - Heres How You Can Do it Too - Kenya Abdul Hadi

From Fresh Prince to a Profitable Furniture Store - Heres How You Can Do it Too - Kenya Abdul Hadi

Author: theoasishaqqislam January 8, 2026 Duration: 51:13

From Howard University to Hollywood TV screens to owning a mid-century modern furniture store in Philadelphia — this episode is a masterclass in reinvention and entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Haqq sits down with longtime friend and Howard classmate Kenya Abdul Hadi, co - owner of The Modern Republic, a premier mid-century modern furniture store in Philly. Before furniture, Kenya built two successful clothing brands, selling T-shirts that landed in Nordstrom, appeared on iconic shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and were worn by cultural heavyweights including Tupac, Fat Joe, DMX and LeBron James.

Kenya breaks down:

* How he got his clothing line into major retail stores like Nordstrom

* The real strategies behind building and growing a loyal customer base

* Why furniture is one of the most lucrative retail businesses

* How anyone can start a furniture business today

* Knowing when to pivot and evolve as an entrepreneur

The conversation also dives into their shared roots at Howard University, the power of relationships, and the mindset required to build brands that last across industries.

Whether you’re into fashion, furniture, retail, or entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with real game from someone who’s lived it.

Don’t forget to Subscribe and Rate & Review on Apple Podcast or wherever you listen to your podcast at.

#Entrepreneurship #MidCenturyModern #FurnitureBusiness #HowardUniversity #Streetwear #RetailGame #Philadelphia #TheModernRepublic #BusinessPodcast


Each week on The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam, host and music industry veteran A. Haqq Islam creates a space for dialogue that feels both necessary and rare. These are conversations that move beyond surface-level headlines, delving into the tangible influence of Islamic faith and Muslim individuals within the most dynamic sectors of modern life. You’ll hear discussions exploring how faith intersects with creative and professional worlds, from the rhythms of Hip Hop and the narratives of film to the strategies of business, the innovation in technology, and the expressions of fashion and sports. This podcast consistently highlights the stories of Muslims who are actively shaping culture, yet whose contributions are often overlooked within mainstream narratives. The tone is intimate and refreshing, offering a perspective that consciously challenges narrow, stereotypical views, whether domestic or international. By focusing on real impact and personal journeys, the series builds a more nuanced understanding. It’s not about preaching, but about presenting a vibrant, multifaceted portrait of engagement and identity. Tuning into this podcast means accessing a forum where spirituality, ambition, and cultural commentary meet, all guided by a host with deep roots in the industry he discusses. The result is a compelling blend of personal insight and broader cultural analysis, making each episode a point of connection and discovery.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 57

The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam
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