This week on CEO School, we’re celebrating Mother’s Day with one of the most heartfelt, vulnerable, and inspiring episodes yet. Host Suneera Madhani is joined by the most important guest she’s ever had on the show—her mom, Shama Rehmetullah.
In this candid conversation, Suneera and her mom talk about everything from growing up during wartime in Bangladesh to immigrating to the U.S. with nothing but a dream. Shama shares how she worked her way up from sweeping floors at 15 to managing a Garrett Popcorn shop in Chicago, how she raised her children with resilience and joy, and how she still shows up with purpose every single day. They also talk about generational patterns, breaking cycles, and the complicated, beautiful journey of being both a mom and a daughter.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
🌍 Shama’s journey through war, immigration, and starting over in America
💪 How to raise kids with strong values while chasing your own dreams
🧠 What “mom guilt” really means—and why you don’t have to carry it
❤️ How to build confidence, community, and a life that reflects your purpose
✨ The family mottos and generational wisdom that still guide Suneera today
Whether you’re a mother, daughter, or entrepreneur navigating motherhood and ambition, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and you absolutely have what it takes.
💬 Your Turn: What’s the best advice your mother ever gave you? Tag @ceoschool and let us know!
📢 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more women scale with confidence.