Assyrian Podcast

Episode 217 Part 2 - Shamiram Urshan: The Life and Music of an Assyrian Icon Step into the world of an Assyrian legend! 🎤✨ In this episode, we explore the life and enduring legacy of the iconic Shamiram Urshan, a singer and entertainer who rose to international fame in the 1980s. Known for her vibrant style and "revolutionary" spirit, Shamiram was a performer who stayed true to her roots while connecting with audiences across the globe. Her first-born son, Dino Pick who we met in part 1 provides an intimate look at the woman behind the music. From her childhood in Tehran to her life as a "close-knit" family anchor in Seattle, Dino shares stories of her "superpower" of forgiveness and her unique stage presence—where she was known to dance right into the middle of the crowd. Highlights of this episode include: A Family Affair: The story of how her debut album was written entirely by her father, Daniel. The "Mom" Energy: How she balanced being a global star with her roles as a nurturing mother and grandmother. Cultural Pride: Her journey of maintaining Assyrian traditions in America and her commitment to passing that heritage to the next generation. Don't miss this heartfelt tribute to a woman who pushed the Assyrian people forward through her art and her love. 🎶❤️ 🎧 Listen now to learn about the one and only Shamiram Urshan! #ShamiramUrshan #AssyrianMusic #AssyrianPodcast #CulturalLegacy #MusicHistory

Episode 217 - Dino Pick (Part 1) In this episode of the Assyrian Podcast, we sit down with Retired U.S. Army Colonel Dino (Danial) Pick, whose life sits at the intersection of military service, diplomacy, and Assyrian identity. From commanding tanks in Desert Storm to leading special operations in northern Iraq, Dino reflects on the tension of serving as an Assyrian-American during the 2003 invasion. He shares a powerful moment when, in the middle of active combat, he used a satellite phone to reconnect an Assyrian professor with his mother in the village of Alqosh. Raised in a close-knit Assyrian home in Seattle, Dino began school speaking only his native language and went on to master Arabic, Farsi, and Dari, eventually serving as a Foreign Area Officer and Commandant of the Defense Language Institute. Beyond his 29-year military career, Dino opens up about a deeply personal calling: honoring the legacy of his mother, a legendary Assyrian singer we’ll meet in part 2. This episode explores identity, sacrifice, and what it means to carry your heritage through every stage of life. Mr. Danial Pick serves as the Director of International Graduate Programs at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. Mr. Pick previously served as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low-Intensity Conflict (ASD (SOLIC)). In this capacity he assisted the ASD (SOLIC) in the execution of Department-wide counterterrorism and irregular warfare policy, operational oversight, and execution of service secretary-like responsibilities over U.S. SOCOM. Previously he served as the first Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations Policy and Programs, a position called for in bipartisan legislation as a means of strengthening civilian oversight of U.S. Special Operations Forces. In this capacity he was responsible for advising the ASD (SOLIC) and the Secretary of Defense by formulating, recommending, integrating and implementing policies and strategies on matters pertaining to the organization, training and equipping of special operations forces including oversight of the $13.4B MFP-11 Special Operations budget. Mr. Pick graduated in 1987 from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Near Eastern Languages and Civilization. He also holds a Master of Military Art and Studies from the Marine Corps University, and a Master of Arts in Near Eastern studies from Princeton University. He was a National Security Affairs Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. Mr. Pick served for 29 years in the US Army as a military intelligence and Middle East foreign area officer. He served with the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) working with partners and allies throughout the Indo-Pacific region. His combat deployments included service with 3/66 Armor Battalion in Desert Storm in 1990-91, the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) during the invasion of Iraq in 2003, and service in Afghanistan in 2009. Mr. Pick helped develop the counterterrorism capabilities of the Iraqi and Jordanian Armed Forces while serving at the U.S. Embassy in Amman, Jordan, from 2003-2006, before serving as a Policy Officer in the Office of the Secretary of Defense from 2006-2008 building the partner capacity of the Iraqi Security Forces. Mr. Pick commanded the Defense Language Institute from 2010-2014 providing foreign language capability to special operations forces and the intelligence community. Mr. Pick has served as a municipal government leader in the Cities of Monterey and Del Rey Oaks, California. He currently serves as an elected official on the Monterey Peninsula Airport Board. He speaks Assyrian, Arabic, Farsi, and Dari. He is married to Karen Pick. They have two children, Dalton (24) and Lauren (21). Mr. Pick is a member of the Global SOF Foundation, the OSS Society, Chair of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation Board, and a member of the Rotary Club of Monterey.

Episode 216 – Assyriska Fotbollsföreningen, also known simply as Assyriska FF, is a Swedish football club based in Södertälje, Stockholm. The club, formed in 1974 by Assyrian immigrants, has advanced through the league system and is currently playing in the third highest Swedish league, Division 1. They played in the highest Swedish football league Allsvenskan in 2005 where their games were broadcast in over 80 countries The club has also played a final in Svenska Cupen. In this episode, Assyriska chairman Moussa Esa discusses how the club began, its legacy, and his aspirations for the team’s future. We also explore the history of Assyrian migration to Sweden and how Södertälje became known as the unofficial Assyrian capital of Europe. This episode of the Assyrian Podcast is brought to you by Get Set Tech, a Google for Education partner helping schools get the most out of Google Workspace and Chrome. From security audits to Chromebooks, Gemini, and Google Voice licenses, our team is here to help you Get Set with Google. Email them at [email protected] or visit getsettech.com to learn more. Assyriska website: https://assyriska.se/ Moussa Esa’s contact: [email protected] You can support the team here: https://assyriska.se/donera

Episode 215 - Dr. Shana Sara Zaia In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Shana S. Zaia, an Assistant Professor at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and a rare Assyrian Assyriologist. We explore the rise of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, widely regarded as the world’s first true empire, and discuss the innovations, from standing armies to complex diplomacy, that allowed it to dominate the ancient world. Dr. Zaia explains how her work as a philologist allows her to "time travel" through cuneiform texts, finding human connection in everything from royal inscriptions to ancient schoolchildren’s homework. We also dive into her passion for outreach and her mission to ensure modern Assyrians feel a profound connection to their 6,000-year heritage. Thank you to Get Set Tech (www.getsettech.com), for making this conversation possible. Their support helps us continue sharing the stories and history of the Assyrian people. Highlights include: The transition of Assyrian identity from a political status to a cultural heritage. How the humanities serve as a vital tool for cultural preservation. Resources for the diaspora available at shana-zaia.com. Tune in to bridge the gap between ancient Nineveh and the living community of today. https://shanazaia.com/ https://research.vu.nl/en/persons/shana-zaia/

Episode 214 - Ramina Samuel, Christine Kochou Yousif, John Shlimon What does it take to turn a language that was once dismissed as “not possible” into a fully accredited high school course in the United States? In this episode of the Assyrian Podcast, we sit down with educators, advocates, and students behind the first accredited Assyrian language program in the U.S. Together, they give us an update on how the program is doing two years after its inception. They share the eight-year journey of persistence, collaboration, and community leadership that brought Assyrian language and culture into public schools as a recognized world language. From curriculum design and academic rigor to student identity, pride, and belonging, this conversation explores why language matters, how representation shapes confidence, and what becomes possible when a community refuses to give up. This episode is not just about education, it is about visibility, legacy, and building a future where Assyrian culture is seen, valued, and passed on. Niles Township High School District 219: https://www.niles219.org/ Instagram: @d219assyrian Facebook: D219 Suraye Books/Resources: D219 Assyrian Website - https://sites.google.com/d219.org/d219assyrian/home Textbook: Lishani by Rabi Anwar Atto

Episode 213: ChatGPT In the latest episode of the Assyrian Podcast, we sat down with ChatGPT for a unique and thought-provoking conversation. From intriguing to controversial questions, I explore how AI navigates complex topics, its perspectives on Assyrian culture, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. Tune in for a fascinating dialogue that bridges technology and humanity!

Episode 212: Christina Salem is the director of ACS Mental Health, an author, and an entrepreneur. She is from West Bloomfield, Michigan, and is an active member of the Assyrian community in Michigan. Her hard work ethic inspires all aspiring entrepreneurs who strive to give back to their community. In this interview, Christina talks about ACS Mental Health, Salem’s Vision, and her book, this girl i met in the bathroom. Tune in to hear her insights from her experiences! ACS Mental Health website: acsmentalhealth.org @acs.mentalhealth Website: Salemsvision.com @salemsvision @thisgirlimetinthebathroom Also on amazon and at brilliant books in traverse city Michigan and Schuler books in west Bloomfield Michigan.

Episode 211 - Arim Hawsho is an Assyrian writer and researcher based in Stockholm, where he lives with his wife and three kids. With a passion for exploring ancient Assyrian culture through food, history, and daily life, Arim connects the past with the present. His upcoming cookbook, Table of Gods, features over 60 recipes inspired by the flavors of ancient Mesopotamia. Through his work, Arim aims to make the rich heritage of Assyria accessible and engaging for modern audiences. Guest: Arim Hawsho Title: Table of Gods Website: https://www.tableofgods.com/ Socials: @ TableofGods

Episode 210 - Diane Patheiu is an accomplished journalist and news anchor, with a career in broadcast media. From her early steps in the newsroom to becoming a trusted voice in Chicago, Diane shares her journey in broadcast media, insights on the changing landscape of journalism, and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. Plus, she opens up about deeply personal experiences, including her husband’s battle with brain cancer and navigating infertility. Tune in for a episode filled with resilience, cultural pride, and the power of storytelling. @dianepathieu

Episode 209 - Join us as we dive into vital themes like vocation and calling, the church's role in our communities, and the unity between the Assyrian and Chaldean churches. We’ll hear from Father Peter Patros and Father Andrew Aziz about their personal ministries, the challenges they face, and contemporary issues affecting our faith. Plus, they'll share valuable advice for navigating life's complexities. Fr. Peter Patros is the youngest of six children and the only one born in the United States. Raised in San Diego, he entered Mar Abba Seminary after high school and was ordained a priest in December 2018. After serving in San Diego, Turlock and Ceres, he currently serves as pastor at Mar Abraham Chaldean Catholic Church in Scottsdale, Arizona. Fr. Andrew Aziz was born and raised in Modesto, California on July 23, 1995. In 2006, he and his younger brother and parents moved to Arizona. He became an active member at Mar Yosip Khnanisho Parish’s Youth association, where he began studying for the diaconate in 2009 and served as the parish’s youth president for 5 years. He was ordained a priest by His Holiness Mar Awa III Catholicos-Patriarch on June 30, 2024, and serves as the Youth Overseer in the Diocese of Western USA. Tune in for insights that resonate! 🙏

Episode 208 - In this episode, two couples discuss how they found their Assyrian partner online and you’ll get to hear from a new matchmaking initiative, MesoMatchmaker, aimed at bringing Assyrian matches together in an intentional and thoughtful way. Website: https://www.mesomatchmaker.com/

Episode 207 - Dilan Adamat - In this enlightening episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Dilan Adamat, the founder of The Return—a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting returnees to Assyria. Dilan shares the inspiring story behind The Return and its mission to preserve the ancestral heritage of Assyrians. We delve into the challenges faced by returnees—whether they're second- or third-generation young people reconnecting with their roots, families recently displaced, investors, or retirees seeking peace in their homeland. The Return offers personalized support ranging from language courses and professional networking to providing a home base for stays, making the complex journey of returning home a tangible reality. Website: https://the-return.co/ Instagram: The Return LinkedIn: The Return

Episode 206 - Paul Elia: Is an standup comedian from Detroit, Michigan. Among the few Chaldean-Assyrians in Hollywood, the Iraqi-American artist has appeared in dozens of films and television shows including Ramy, Lady Dynamite and is perhaps best known for his recurring roles on TBS’s Conan, appearing in over a dozen sketches. With fellow comedian and collaborator Matt Rife, the duo created LowKey Comedy Show which is considered one of the top independent comedy shows today. In addition to LCS, Paul is producing Matt’s next Netflix comedy special Natural Selection while Matt is executive producing Paul’s comedy special debut Detroit Player. He has multiple viral clips and has over 60M+ views across all social media which include his stand up, sketches, and crowd work clips.

Episode 205 – Baneta, Romta and Dilan are young adults living in the homeland of Northern Iraq. They combine their various backgrounds and experiences to share with you some honest and raw insights on what it’s like to be an Assyrian living in the homeland. They dive into questions of cultural identity and heritage, the challenges faced and opportunities available for Assyrians in the homeland, their connection to the diaspora, and their aspirations for the future. They candidly describe the fatigue often felt by Assyrians in the homeland, as well as the difficult question of whether to stay or to leave.

Episode Description 204 - Dr. Sandra Solaiman was born in Abadan, Iran, and earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Urmieh in the early 70’s. She immigrated to the United States on a student visa to continue her education at UC Davis. Various life circumstances led her to the midwest then the South where she earned her PhD from University of Missouri in Animal Sciences, with a focus on goats and goat nutrition. She has received many prestigious awards throughout her career and served as an important figure in the world of goat sciences. Her textbook has been translated into many languages. In this episode, we talk about the importance of education in her life, her upbringing, and her role as a mother.

Episode 203 - Mark Michael guided DevHub.com through venture-backed Series A, A1, and completed the acquisition of Brickwork Software, adding Nike, Chanel, and David Yurman among leading Fortune 1000 companies powered through DevHub’s OEM and VAR channels. He continues to lead DevHub as CEO. Through his role as the CEO of DevHub, Mark works with multi-location brands of all sizes - from emerging brands to established franchises and portfolio brands, to help them own their digital presence. 📱 DevHub's location-based approach allows brands to easily manage and scale their platform through the core of their digital marketing strategy - their website. From corporate sites to local pages, landing pages, microsites, franchise development sites, and more, Mark and the DevHub team have partnered with 75+ technologies so that DevHub customers can integrate with their chosen providers seamlessly, scale freely, and drive growth like never before. 🚀 Join us as we dive into Mark's journey, exploring his digital leadership and the influence of his Assyrian heritage. https://www.devhub.com/ https://www.markmichael.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/devhub-com

Episode 202 - Emil Brikha - a former DJ, music producer, and spoken word artist turned dad. But not just any kind of dad, a stay-at-home Dad. Emil was born in Iran to Assyrian parents and raised in Sweden. He met the love of his life while living and working in Malta. As a self-described “odd man out” Emil talks to us about the intuitive decision within his marriage to be primary caregiver and society’s response to it. We learn about his views on fatherhood, the importance of connecting with our children, and the surprising bit of parenthood that involves re-connecting with ourselves. Emil documented a lot of his early fatherhood journey as Fatherologist with a YouTube presence showing a playful and involved view of parenthood. He is the proud father of 9 year-old Ean and 5 year-old Allegra and lives in Malaga, Spain with his family.

Episode 201 - Meet Lisa Mirza Grotts, “The Golden Rules Gal,” a renowned etiquette expert, author, and public speaker. She has 25 years of experience in helping individuals navigate social situations to present themselves with confidence and poise. Lisa has gained recognition for her expertise in traditional and modern manners. She dispenses pearls of wisdom to provide guidance with civility, consideration and compassion on various aspects of etiquette such as table manners, communication skills, and professional decorum. In this episode, we explore Lisa's upbringing as an Assyrian and how the values instilled in her from a young age have been the compass to her life. We also delve into her journey toward becoming an etiquette expert and share some practical do's and don'ts for social events, ranging from weddings to housewarmings. www.lisagrotts.com

Episode 200 - Paul Elia IG & Tik Tok: @pauleliacomedy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Pauleliacomedy Is an LA-based standup comedian from Detroit, Michigan. Among the few Chaldean-Assyrians in Hollywood, the Iraqi-American artist has appeared in dozens of films and television shows including Ramy, Lady Dynamite and is perhaps best known for his recurring roles on TBS’s Conan, appearing in over a dozen sketches. With fellow comedian and collaborator Matt Rife, the duo created LowKey Comedy Show which is considered one of the top independent comedy shows today. In addition to LCS, Paul is producing Matt’s next Netflix comedy special Natural Selection while Matt is executive producing Paul’s comedy special debut Detroit Player. He has multiple viral clips and has over 60M+ views across all social media which include his stand up, sketches, and crowd work clips.