Immigrantly

I’m beyond excited about today’s episode because we’re catching up with someone who’s been on quite a journey since you last heard from him. Shahjehan Khan, my cohost from our season of Immigrantly on Love and Relationships, is back—and he’s got some incredible stories to share. From appearing on Succession to taking on iconic roles in Mortal Kombat, Shahjehan has been leveling up in the entertainment world, and I can’t wait for you to hear all about it. But that’s not all—joining us is the amazingly talented Rafay Rashid, an experimental musician with a raw, confessional style that’s impossible to ignore. Rafay is here to dive deep into his battle with drug use and how it’s shaped his music, his life, and his advocacy for sobriety in the arts. This is a conversation about the art of healing and inspiring. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the host of Immigrantly, I’m always looking for voices that challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of our understanding of identity and resistance. In this episode, I’m thrilled to introduce two extraordinary women whose work does precisely that. Join me as I dive into the inspiring stories of Laura Vergara, a Queer Colombian feminist organizer, and Ayat Mneina, a Libyan researcher and writer. Laura is at the forefront of redefining girlhood through the Stories of Girls' Resistance initiative, amplifying the everyday acts of defiance against patriarchy and violence across the globe. Ayat brings her deep commitment to social justice, using her voice to break through oppression and empower the next generation of activists. Together, we explore the power of collective action and the role of immigrant experiences in shaping their activism. This conversation goes beyond celebrating resistance; it imagines a future where girls live freely, unburdened by the fight for their fundamental rights. Please tune in for an empowering discussion that challenges narratives and redefines what it means to resist. Immigrantly is a trailblazing podcast that redefines the immigrant experience by diving into the nuanced and multifaceted stories of first and second-generation immigrants. Through intimate and thought-provoking conversations, we explore the intersections of culture, identity, and belonging, shedding light on our world's diverse journeys. Hosted by Saadia Khan, a social entrepreneur passionate about authentic storytelling, Immigrantly breaks down stereotypes and builds bridges across communities, offering listeners a fresh perspective on what it means to navigate life between cultures. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Remember to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This summer, I’m sharing original Immigrantly content and highlighting creators who have inspired me. Recently, I shared an episode of The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos, and today, I’m excited to bring you another gem—an episode of the Nuances podcast. If you’re a regular Immigrantly listener, you might recall my interview with Sherry Lyn Lee, also known as Lazou, the host of Nuances. The episode was titled "From Tech to Tunes." Her podcast, Nuances, is an award-nominated audio space where guests from various Asian ethnic groups, careers, countries, and communities delve into the complexities of our cultural relationships and how they shape our identities. Today's episode features Lazou's conversation with Soo Jin Lee, who, despite never being explicitly told she was undocumented, always had an inherent sense of it. The licensed therapist and author also discusses how healing trauma doesn’t have to adhere strictly to Western methods of health and wellness. I hope you enjoy this episode and come back for more Immigrantly content next week. Immigrantly is a trailblazing podcast that redefines the immigrant experience by diving into the nuanced and multifaceted stories of first and second-generation immigrants. Through intimate and thought-provoking conversations, we explore the intersections of culture, identity, and belonging, shedding light on the diverse journeys that shape our world. Hosted by Saadia Khan, a social entrepreneur passionate about authentic storytelling, Immigrantly breaks down stereotypes and builds bridges across communities, offering listeners a fresh perspective on what it means to navigate life between cultures. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Remember to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the 2024 Presidential Elections approach, reductive narratives around immigrant identities are on the rise. Despite over 70 million first and second-generation immigrants in America, they continue to face vilification. Politicians echo alarming calls for mass deportations, but few capture the humanity of the immigrant experience. In this episode, my guests and I explore these issues and the often-overlooked stories of those who return to their homeland. Joining me are Antonia Cerejido and Lorena Rios, the brilliant minds behind the podcast Imperfect Paradise, Return to Mexico. They share the powerful journey of Daniel Zamora, an undocumented immigrant sent back to Mexico, revealing a story of grit, vulnerability, and strength. Antonia, an award-winning producer and journalist from NPR's Latino USA, and Lorena, a distinguished journalist featured in The New York Times and The Guardian, delve into themes of identity, belonging, and the impact of immigration policies. Join us for an enlightening conversation about what it truly means to call a place home. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Constant worry and stress are bad for our bodies and our minds, but how can we break the cycle and relax? It turns out scientists have learned a lot from one of America's most stressed-out communities - caregivers. In this episode of The Happiness Lab, hosted by Dr. Laurie Santos, Hollywood star Steve Guttenberg talks about the toughest chapter of his life—caring for his dying dad—and Dr. Elissa Epel explains why some caregivers suffer badly from stress, while others seem to find ways to live with the awful situation they find themselves in daily. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Mila Atmos, the fabulous host of Future Hindsight. Mila is renowned for her deep understanding of civic engagement and democratic participation. She has spent years amplifying the voices of changemakers and thought leaders who shape our society. But who is Mila Atmos beyond the microphone? This conversation delves into the lesser-known aspects of her life and career. Did you know Mila was born in Indonesia and raised in Germany before moving to the U.S.? Like me, she embarked on her podcasting journey during the 2016 elections. Mila and I explore how her multicultural background influences her perspective on civic life and democracy. We talk about her diverse career: before stepping into the podcasting world, Mila had a stint on Wall Street and a significant role at Sesame Street, where she was instrumental in launching the show's Indonesian version. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Immigrantly, I'm excited to welcome the incredible Dr. Amra Sabic-El-Rayess. Amra is an Associate Professor at Columbia University, focusing on essential topics like social cohesion, the radicalization process, and how communities can hurt each other. But beyond her academic work, Amra has an incredible personal story—she survived the Bosnian war and Genocide in the 1990s. She wrote a powerful book about her experience called "The Cat I Never Named: A True Story of Love, War, and Survival." Her recent book is Three Summers, which launched in April 2024. The book is based on her real life and is geared towards young readers. For those who may not know, the Bosnian Genocide happened between 1992 and 1995 and involved horrific ethnic cleansing and mass killings, especially against Bosniak Muslims. The worst of it was the Srebrenica Massacre in July 1995, where over 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were killed. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is Emily Kwong, a dedicated journalist and storyteller renowned for her outstanding work at NPR. Emily's reporting spans a broad spectrum, from climate change and science to compelling human interest stories that shed light on the rich tapestry of immigrant communities. Her keen insights and propensity to capture the essence of human experiences have garnered widespread acclaim in journalism. I've been deeply engaged with Emily's latest podcast, 'Inheriting,' which delves into Asian American and Pacific-Islander families. Through her exploration of how historical events reverberate across generations, Emily creates a narrative that feels intimate and profound, akin to sharing a moment with her in a cozy living room. Each episode, including the one on Pakistan, resonates deeply, showcasing Emily's passion for unraveling the complexities of identity, culture, and belonging. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don't forget to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we approach the 4th of July, we’re diving into the multifaceted concept of freedom. For many immigrants and diverse groups, true liberation remains elusive, overshadowed by systemic inequalities and societal barriers. What does freedom mean in a country that touts itself as the land of the free yet often makes many of us feel otherwise? Join my team members, Adiba Hussain, Sara Baig, Sereen Qader, and I, as we represent diverse backgrounds and experiences and share our reflections on freedom (or lack thereof), identity, and the ongoing journey toward true equality. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don’t forget to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frequent listeners of Immigrantly know that I often delve into the differences between individualistic and collectivist societies. This contrast becomes particularly striking when considering how people in individualistic cultures often face grief and struggles in isolation. Immigrants can deeply resonate with the emotional toll this solitude brings and the vital role of community and support. Today's guest has brilliantly explored these struggles through her Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Cost of Living, which poignantly captures the complexities of human connection and the profound effects of isolation. Joining me today is Martyna Majok, the 2018 Pulitzer Prize winner for Cost of Living. A distinguished graduate of the Yale School of Drama and the Juilliard School, Martyna has also studied at the University of Chicago and has received numerous accolades from the Kennedy Center, the American Theatre Critic Association, and many others. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Rainier Harris & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more insightful episodes. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is Lazou (Sherry-Lynn Lee), a multi-faceted talent who embodies the rich tapestry of a “Sino-Mauritian-Canadian-American producer, writer, and artist.” Raised in the vibrant culture of Mauritius, Lazou initially carved out a successful, nearly decade-long career in Silicon Valley as a software engineer and data scientist. However, her true passion led her to make a bold leap into the world of music and media. Her songwriting is a testament to her linguistic versatility, with enchanting melodies in English, French, and Mauritian Creole. Lazou is also the brilliant mind behind the 'Nuances' podcast, a platform that explores the diverse experiences of the Asian diaspora. The show dives deep into the complexities of identity, touching on themes such as LGBTQ+ rights, anti-racism, feminism, politics, religion, career paths, family dynamics, and much more. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan & Adiba Hussain I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more insightful episodes. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we prepare for the Nationly and Sportly podcasts launch and Immigrantly's newest episodes, we are sharing an episode by our friends at the Future Hindsight episode. In this Future Hindsight episode, host Mila Atmos is joined by Hajar Yazdiha for a conversation on the role of collective memory in the myth-making of American exceptionalism. Collective memory is how we remember history and becomes central to our idea of who we are as a people. It’s a storytelling process and the most central story to who we are as a people. The civil rights movement has become one of the central collective memories in America's story of both who it is and who it wants to be. However, careful examination of the record reveals that the civil rights movement was a political project meant to dismantle multicultural democracy. Further, as the collective memory of Dr. King became sanitized and whitewashed, his legacy carried a lot of moral legitimacy, and his moral symbolic authority became ripe for manipulation. Hajar is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences and the author of The Struggle for the People’s King: How Politics Transforms the Memory of the Civil Rights Movement. Please tune in to Future Hindsight every Thursday whenever you get your podcasts. https://www.futurehindsight.com/ Credits: Host: Mila Atmos Guest: Hajar Yazdiha Executive Producer: Mila Atmos Senior Producer: Zack Travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Vivek Bald, a filmmaker, writer, and scholar dedicated to uncovering the hidden histories of the South Asian diaspora. For the past twenty-five years, Vivek has explored the migration patterns and cultural impact of South Asians in the US and Britain through his documentaries, books, and academic work at MIT’s Comparative Media Studies Department. His latest documentary, “In Search of Bengali Harlem,” with actor and playwright Alaudin Ullah, which premiered in early March, reveals the forgotten history of Bengali migrants who settled in Harlem during the 1920s, integrating into Black and Hispanic communities. Key Takeaways History of South Asian Migration: Overview of South Asian migration to the United States. Experiences of early South Asian immigrants. Impact of immigration laws on the South Asian community. Personal and Family Experiences: Vivek Bald's upbringing and influences. His mother’s activism and its impact on his perspectives. Development of his interest in documentary filmmaking. In Search of Bengali Harlem: The undocumented migration of Bengali Muslim men to the US in the early 20th century. Intermarriages with African American and Puerto Rican women. Challenges faced by these communities. Personal stories and the research process behind the documentary. The intersection of Race, Class, and Identity: How these elements have shaped the experiences of South Asian immigrants. The cultural influence of South Asians in cities like New York. Political undertones in the narratives of South Asian migration. Additional Links: To learn more about In Search of Bengali Harlem, http://bengaliharlem.com The film is available to stream on PBS as part of the documentary series America ReFramed: On PBS/WORLD’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=os-PxQ2q3Ig Using the PBS App on your TV or Mobile Device: https://www.pbs.org/pbs–app/ At America ReFramed: https://worldchannel.org/episode/america-reframed-in-search-of-bengali-harlem/ http://bengaliharlem.com/watch Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan & Adiba Hussain I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more insightful episodes. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amer Jandali is the founder of 'Future Meets Present,' a social design agency dedicated to building a sustainable future. Before diving into climate activism, Amer had an exciting career as a DJ in New Mexico, where he even opened for famous acts like LMFAO (yes, the Party Rock Anthem duo). He later moved from Las Cruces to New York City to pursue a master's degree in design for social innovation. Today, he teaches sustainable business models at Parsons and social entrepreneurship at John Jay College. Join us as we discuss his journey from DJing to designing a greener future and explore his work at 'Future Meets Present.' Get ready for an inspiring conversation that combines the energy of party anthems with the urgency of environmental action Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan & Bobak Afshari I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest is someone I recently started to follow on Twitter, X whatever you call it, and I started reading her debut essay collection, “The Way You Make Me Feel: LOVE IN BLACK AND BROWN.” I am in awe of her calm honesty and unique writing style; she blends humor and realism with aplomb. Nina Sharma is a writer who focuses on humor writing. She is a Barnard alum and now teaches first-year students there. Her work has been showcased in publications such as The New Yorker and Women’s Studies Quarterly. Through her workshops and writing columns, she explores allyship within BIPOC communities. Don’t miss this insightful conversation with a truly remarkable writer! Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Adiba Hussain and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest, Daniel Alvarenga, journalist and podcast host, delves into his life as a Salvadoran American and the extensive influence of U.S. foreign policy on Central America. Raised in a Salvadoran household, he recounts his parents' migration during El Salvador's civil war and its profound impact on his worldview. Daniel addresses prevalent misconceptions about Central Americans, particularly stereotypes linked to violence, and underscores the importance of grasping the historical and political nuances behind Central American migration. In his podcast "Humo, Murder and Silence en El Salvador," Alvarenga exposes systemic failures and the harsh realities faced by families of the disappeared, advocating for critical thinking and collective action for reform. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me on Immigrantly as I delve into the intricate world of gaming and representation, a topic that is not only fascinating but also highly relevant in today’s diverse gaming landscape. In this episode, I am joined by University of Chicago professors Alireza Doostdar and Ghenwa Hayek, who share insights from their groundbreaking project, ‘Gaming Islam.’ We explore the portrayal of South West Asian, North African, and Muslim individuals in the iconic video game Call of Duty. Discover why representation matters in gaming and how initiatives like ‘Gaming Islam’ reshape the industry’s landscape. It’s a thought-provoking discussion on the power of media in shaping cultural perceptions and fostering inclusivity. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, accurate insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode of Immigrantly, I dive head-first into the expansive realm of happiness. Is happiness a fleeting moment or a sustained state of being? Can it be actively cultivated, or is it an innate aspect of human existence? How do our backgrounds, personalities, and choices influence our perceptions of happiness? Our guest, Laurie Santos, a distinguished cognitive science and psychology professor at Yale, is here to shed light on these questions. With her groundbreaking course, Psychology and the Good Life, Laurie has pioneered an approach to happiness education that has captivated audiences worldwide. We discuss cultural considerations when exploring happiness, the difference between contentment and happiness, Gen Z’s perception of happiness, and how to achieve zen mode. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Rainier Harris and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Title Inspiration: Nick Epley Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey folks, join me for a chat with Yusuf Dahl, who's been through it all, from facing a potential 60-year sentence at 18 to hustling to founding his own company, Milwaukee Metro Management. And get this: he's not just any entrepreneur - he's a Princeton grad and former Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Lafayette College. We'll dive into his rollercoaster ride from prison to Princeton, talk about the messed-up prison system, and how he's changing the game for communities like the one he grew up in. Trust me, you won't want to miss this incredible story of survival and triumph. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Adiba Hussain and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode is a special treat for all you tech enthusiasts, Black Mirror binge-watchers, and fans of the Terminator franchise! I am delving deep into the realm of artificial intelligence, but with a twist – through the lens of feminist ethics. I sit down with the brilliant Dr. Kerry McInerney, a scholar and AI ethicist whose work sheds light on the intersection of feminism, race, and technology. She is currently a Research Associate at the Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence and a research fellow at AI Now Institute. Her scholarly writing has appeared in multiple journals, and in 2021, she released her podcast The Good Robot, which she cohosts alongside fellow AI scholar Dr. Eleanor Drage. This podcast explores the more nuanced side of AI—not just the science behind it, but its social and ethical sides. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Michaela Strauther and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel that the term 'resilience 'needs to capture the essence of our experiences? I sure do! Join me for a critical discussion on this topic. And guess what? I've got a special guest in the house—Vinita Srivastava, a seasoned multimedia producer, researcher, podcaster, and writer. She and I dive into her latest project, the 'Don't Call Me Resilient' podcast. Through our conversations, we challenge predominant perspectives on race, resilience, and inclusivity. You don't want to miss it. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Adiba Hussain and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The use of 'Genocide' in discussions about Gaza has captured global attention, stirring a complex debate around its implications. In this episode, Ernesto Verdeja, a Professor of peace studies and global politics, joins me in dissecting the meaning and application of this term within the Israel-Palestine situation. We aim to understand the term, the criteria for its use, and the divergent viewpoints on its relevance to current events in Gaza. This conversation offers a thoughtful exploration of a highly charged topic, clarifying a term that carries significant weight in international discourse. This is a nuanced analysis with hopes that it enriches our understanding of the language used to describe one of the most enduring conflicts of our time. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Michaela Strauther I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As you know, I am always looking for great stories that we can create in-house and share in this space. And when I heard this story, I knew I had to share it with all of you! This episode from the Rightnowish podcast delves into many familiar themes of belonging, assimilation, loss, and finding our whole selves in this society. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Next week, I will be back with Immigrantly’s new episode. This episode is part of the Rightnowish series Pen’s Pals. Journalist Pendarvis (Pen) Harshaw spent five weeks talking to people he knows from different areas of his life, who’ve all spent formative years in the Bay Area but now live outside the United States. In each episode, Pen talks to a guest about what caused them to move, how their perspective has changed, and what they’d say if they could write a letter to folks back home. This episode strays from that format because this guest was born outside the United States and immigrated here. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we witness institutions like the University of Florida and major corporations like Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan scaling back their DEI efforts due to political pressures, are we allowing divisive rhetoric to overshadow the importance of creating inclusive environments where everyone feels valued? My guest today, Netta Jenkins, is a leader in the DEI space. She embodies the spirit of challenging norms and advocating for change. Raised by immigrant parents from Liberia and having grown up in Rhode Island, Netta talks about her childhood experiences that led her to choose a career in DEI. We discussed what will be lost if DEI programs are slashed, who the biggest recipients of DEI initiatives are, and how DEI can be improved. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I am diving deep into the multifaceted world of beauty – an intensely personal and profoundly public topic. The beauty landscape has undergone a seismic shift from societal perceptions to self-reflection in the age of social media and video calls. In a world where self-scrutiny is constant, have we become more conscious of our own uniqueness? Are we conditioned to view ourselves through an augmented lens, even in reality? Today, we will unpack these questions and try to gain insights into the complex interplay of beauty, technology, and societal norms. My guest, Dr. John Mesa, MD, answers some of these questions. He is a Colombian plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery for the face, neck, and breasts. He is known as the “king of buccal fat removal” within the plastic surgery community. Dr. Mesa also serves as a member of countless societies specializing in plastic surgery. He has taught at universities as a Clinical Instructor, authored many peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and published his book, Atlas of Operative Craniofacial Surgery. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Adiba Hussain and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet Ana Sheila Victorino – she's an amazing human being! Ana's all about well-being and empowerment. She co-founded "Bask & Being" for workplace wellness and hosted the Tamarindo Podcast. This podcast discusses politics, culture, and self-development and has been featured in Oprah Magazine, Latino USA, Latina Magazine, Variety Magazine's Entertainment and Tech Summit, and Hip Latina. Today, Ana shares her journey back to Mexico, how speaking Spanish more fluently shaped her identity, and how invested she feels in American society given her dual nation status. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Adiba Hussain and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode features the remarkable Negin Farsad!, a brilliant writer and comedian known for her hilarious wit and astute commentary. You might recognize Negin as the host of the popular podcast "Fake the Nation," where she engages in lively discussions about culture, politics, and everything. With an impressive lineup of guests, including luminaries like Samantha Bee and Margaret Cho, Negin fearlessly tackles complex topics with humor and intelligence. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of conversation and the power of humor to address societal issues. We explore Negin's unique perspective on diversity in entertainment, her journey in comedy, and the age-old question: Should her kid pursue a comedy career? Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm excited to chat with the impressive Chef Jesus Diaz. From starting in a Florida sushi joint to becoming a household name on Despierta America, his journey is remarkable. With a cookbook, cooking attire line, two Emmy wins, and even a dance show victory under his belt, Chef Jesus is a force to be reckoned with. In this episode, we unpack his incredible story and learn what makes his cuisine and journey unique. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Michaela Strauther and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I uncover the heartwarming tale of Send Chinatown Love, a nonprofit born out of the unity of New York City's Chinatown during the pandemic. Elaine Mao and Christoph Grosse share insights into their mission beyond restaurants, tackling hate crimes, and supporting the elderly. We do a deep dive into their latest project, the "Made Here" cookbook, featuring a plethora of unique recipes from Chinatown and beyond. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, I am joined by Supinder Wraich, a trailblazing Canadian writer and actress. You might recognize her from her standout performance as "Aqsa" in the Peabody award-winning series "Sort of," which is currently in its gripping third and final season on HBO. Supinder not only captivates audiences on screen but has also left an indelible mark as the creator and star of her mini-series, 'the 410,' released in 2019. As she gears up for the premiere of "Allegiance" on CBC this February, Supinder is breaking down stereotypes and reshaping the narrative for actors of color in the West. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari and Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In January 2023, I sat down with Amy Choi and Rebecca Lehrer, the cohosts of The Mash-Up Americans podcast. Our conversation centered on their series on grief. We discussed grief, how we can understand it without over-pathologizing the sentiment, and why it’s both universal and personal. The most remarkable about the conversation is that we kept it light and honest.” Today, I am so psyched to share an episode from their podcast- their interview with Lisa Ling. The celebrated journalist, executive producer, TV host, author, and mother sits with Rebecca and Amy to share her journey to heal her familial bonds, compassion for her mom, and hard-won friendship with her religious Korean mother-in-law. I hope you enjoy this episode, and don’t forget to return next week for Immigrantly’s new episode. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Harvard's first black president, Claudine Gay, resigned recently following several controversies over the past few months. But the real controversy, at least for this episode of Immigrantly, is the fact that regarding her resignation, conservatives (from billionaires to politicians) have been denouncing Gay as a "diversity hire." If you're unfamiliar with the term, this is the perfect episode to listen to. Today, I'll be breaking down what "diversity hire" means, why it's harmful, and how it relates to a larger conversation around DEI or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. Resources: Books discussing DEI and relevant topics: https://peoplemanagingpeople.com/topics/organizational-culture/dei/dei-books/ Documentaries on Race and culture that can enrich DEI conversations: https://about.colum.edu/diversity-equity-inclusion/resources/films Two Banned Books lists: https://www.library.cmu.edu/about/news/2023-10/banned-books-week-2023 https://www.ala.org/advocacy/bbooks/frequentlychallengedbooks/top10 Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Michaela Strauther I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Finding meaningful connections becomes crucial in a world where loneliness affects physical and mental well-being. Whether solidifying familial ties or seeking companions who offer stability, love, and tranquility, the pursuit is universal. However, reality often reminds us that finding the perfect companion is difficult. How does this quest transform when elements like AI and money come into play? Today, our guest explores this intersection, providing insights into the intricate connection between love, technology, and wealth. Cassindy Chao is a matchmaker located in the Bay Area, California. Her work with matchmaking started when she was a student at Wellesley College; now, after quitting a job in finance, she works full-time as a matchmaker, primarily focused on the Asian community. I’m excited to speak with her today about her process, the requests she goes through, and the future of matchmaking with the rise of AI. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bob Afshari I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmad Farid I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back! Today's guest, Jane Wong, is a poet, a professor, and a restaurant kid - her new book, “Meet Me Tonight in Atlantic City,” covers growing up in a Chinese-American restaurant and reckoning with her ancestral past and present. In her book, you can expect passages as specific as ‘How to fall asleep so your mom picks you up” or earlier in that same chapter, “How to lock your brother in the meat freezer.” Her poetry, which she’s published in two books, has led her to create exhibits, one based on a poem entitled “After Preparing the Altar, the Ghosts Feast Feverishly,” which combines her past growing up in a restaurant with her ancestor’s struggles of surviving “the great leap forward” one of the most deadly famines in history Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bob Afshari I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Ellery Groth I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the final Immigrantly episode of 2023, I decided to learn more about America’s most popular winter holiday—Christmas. Although I don’t celebrate it, this podcast is all about cross-cultural connections, regardless of our differences. And what better way to learn about a different culture than through its food? So, join me and the Immigrantly team as we explore a few iconic American Christmas dishes, breaking bread across cultures, families, and traditions. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Michaela Strauther I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet the incredible Siddharth Katragadda, a San Diego-based artist extraordinaire who's not just a painter, photographer, and award-winning filmmaker but a force for change. Born and raised in India, Siddharth weaves captivating narratives through his art, tackling social justice issues head-on. Join us for a lively conversation as we uncover the magic behind his diverse talents and how he's shaping a brighter, more vibrant world. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Pippa Tsuki Carlson & Bobak Afshari I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My today’s guest, Pervaiz Shallwani- From covering intense stories like the George Floyd protests to reporting on the Brooklyn subway shooting, Pervaiz is spicing things up in the food scene. Now, he's cooking up 'Chaat Dog'—a mashup of his Chicago background and Pakistani roots. It's not just hot dogs; it's a tasty journey blending cultures and stories. Join the conversation as Pervaiz dishes out more than news—this time, it's all about the flavor. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bob Afshari I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Steve Martin I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Inspired by the ongoing suffering in Palestine, this episode explores language's power and potential harm. Words aren’t harmless and are often dangerous. Slight differences in word choice alter people’s perceptions. Minor differences can turn humans into “animals.” There’s no guest today; instead, I investigate the subtle nuances in our words through the deeply rooted history of “dog-whistling.” I hope this episode will inspire us to think more critically about any media we encounter—from newspaper headlines and political rhetoric to advertisements and TV shows. Because words are more complex than they seem. Trigger Warning: multiple moments in this episode contain sensitive material, including racism and brief mentions of sexual assault. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Michaela Strauther I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravorty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is the multi-award-winning podcaster and sex educator Sangeeta Pillai. Sangeeta hosts the Masala podcast that features interviews with South Asian women about taboo topics and their narratives. Sangeeta is also the founder of the South Asian feminist platform Soul Sutras. Her work extends from the world of podcasting into the Masala Monologues series, hosting writing workshops and theater shows in the U.S. and the U.K. In this episode, Sangeeta talks about her long and rich journey from what she calls a “Mumbai slum” to becoming a powerful voice in the South Asian feminist movement. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Rainier Harris & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Steve Martin I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We bring to you our annual Thanksgiving episode with interviews with our very own Immigrantly team members on what the day looks like in their household. Some of us celebrate it, others don’t, and we grapple with what this holiday can look like as we move through a fraught political environment and acknowledge dark histories. Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Pippa Tsuki Carlson & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Steve Martin I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Atheer Yacoub is a New York-based Palestinian-Muslim comedian, writer, and podcaster. Through her unique lens, she explores the complexities of her upbringing, Palestinian identity, and the current political climate. Her debut comedy album, "Denied Entry," offers a compelling glimpse into her experiences. Co-creator of "Muslim Girls DTF: Discuss Their Faith" and co-host of "The No Fly List" podcast, Atheer navigates meaningful conversations by delicately blending humor and insight. In these challenging political times, her perspective shines brightly, providing a critical perspective. Immigrantly is an introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinary of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Pippa Tsuki Carlson & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prepare for a rollercoaster of talent and intrigue as I welcome the incredibly versatile Alex Estrada to our show! As a prolific writer in TV and stand-up comedy, Alex wears many hats, including being the brilliant mind behind the Disney animated comedy Hamster and Gretel. But that's not all – he also takes on the role of a meticulous investigator in his podcast, The Estate, where he delves into the mysterious tale of his own father and a chilling murder case. Get ready to be inspired and entertained as we unravel the layers of Alex's creative journey, unveiling the essence of who he is today. Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is an introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinary of immigrant life. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Immigrantly has garnered significant recognition and has been featured in renowned media outlets such as the Nieman Storyboard, The Guardian, The Slowdown, and CNN. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Rainier Harris & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Steve Martin I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest is Dr. Sofya Aptekar- As an Associate Professor of Urban Studies at the City University of New York, she uncovers society’s secrets, from gentrification in Astoria Queens to the complexities of immigration and the military. Her latest book, ‘Green Card Soldier.' unravels the fascinating complexities within the US military system, shedding light on a world often shrouded in mystery. With wit, wisdom, and a touch of humor, Dr. Aptekar and I ask the listeners to challenge perspectives and embark on an adventure of knowledge unlike any other. Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is a lighthearted, introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. Our mission is to challenge and disrupt one-dimensional narratives about immigrants and people of color in America. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for a wild ride through the fascinating world of human connection and empathy with an award-winning journalist, Andrea Smardon. We'll dive deep into the real deal of human bonds versus shallow gestures while having a good laugh. Andrea's podcast series, 'Stranger Becomes Neighbor,' takes us on a rollercoaster with Afghan refugees in Salt Lake City. With her sharp wit and journalistic talent, she uncovers their struggles, celebrates their victories, and shows us what it means to start over. Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is a light-hearted, introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. Our mission is to challenge and disrupt one-dimensional narratives about immigrants and people of color in America. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Pippa Tsuki Carlson & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode covers the extraordinary journey of Kuwaiti filmmaker Omar Al Dakheel, from his transformative scholarship days in Miami to crafting inspiring films like 'Al Imam.' Now, as an associate producer on Netflix's 'American Manhunt,' he continues to break barriers. Join me for a seamless and engaging exploration of creativity, culture, and compelling storytelling that transcends boundaries. as we dive into the heart of filmmaking brilliance! Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is an introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. Our mission is to challenge and disrupt one-dimensional narratives about immigrants and people of color in America. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I have a special episode for you today. I am sharing an episode of the new podcast from APM Studios and Chalk & Blade called Tiny Huge Decisions. This is a story about two best friends, Mohsin and Dalia, who make a life-changing decision: will she be the gestational surrogate for Mohsin and his husband? It’s emotional, intimate, and more than a little complicated. Here is episode 1! Come back next week for a new Immigrantly episode! Subscribe to Tiny-Huge Decisions now to catch each new episode. Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is a light-hearted, introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. Our mission is to challenge and disrupt one-dimensional narratives about immigrants and people of color in America. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode, I am diving deep into the impact of storytelling and the incredible strength of collective action, and what better time to do it than during Latine Heritage Month, as we celebrate the unyielding spirit of Latine empowerment? Brenda Gonzalez is the co-host of the podcast Tamarindo, which is, as she calls it, a “socially conscious podcast with a Latino vibe” that covers everything from pop culture to community building. Brenda has been podcasting since 2016 and has expanded beyond just podcast work into the nonprofit world and coaching. Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is a light-hearted, introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. Our mission is to challenge and disrupt one-dimensional narratives about immigrants and people of color in America. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, in honor of Latino Heritage Month, we're revisiting one of my all-time favorite episodes. The episode was first released in January 2023. I chat with Carmen Rita Wong, a true superstar, in this episode. Carmen's done it all – she's been a journalist, a businesswoman, and a financial expert. She's worked with big names like CNN, CBS, and NBC and written for magazines like Glamour and Good Housekeeping. She's even written five books, including her latest memoir, 'Why Didn’t You Tell Me?' Trust me, this episode is packed with incredible stories and wisdom. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this Immigrantly gem. And hey, if you like what you hear, please rate and review us. We'll be back next week with another exciting Immigrantly episode. Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is a light-hearted, introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. Our mission is to challenge and disrupt one-dimensional narratives about immigrants and people of color in America. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod. You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Michaela Strauther & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Haziq Ahmed Farid/Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aizzah Fatima is a Muslim-American actress and filmmaker. Her one-woman play, Dirty Paki Lingerie, about the stereotypes faced by Muslim American women, has toured around the world, including in Canada, Pakistan, and the UK, to rave reviews. Imagine a rom-com that breaks new ground by delving into the lives of a Muslim American family striving to assimilate into American culture. That's precisely what the film adaptation of the play "Americanish" represents, and it's making waves in the entertainment industry. But here's the twist: our guest, Aizzah, wasn't always in the spotlight. She used to be an ads engineer at Google, navigating the world of algorithms and data. With a rich breadth of experience and knowledge, Aizzah offers us a unique perspective on the connections between these seemingly disparate worlds. Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is a weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. Our mission is to challenge and disrupt one-dimensional narratives about immigrants and people of color in America. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Join us as we create a new kind of intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod You can connect with Saadia on Twitter Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Rainier Harris & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Sadia Azmat, a British Indian writer and comedian who unapologetically shares her experiences with sexuality and identity. She cohosted a podcast for BBC called "No Country for Young Women." Recently, she published a book called "Sex Bomb," which explores sexuality and her identity as a Muslim woman As a young Muslim girl growing up in Pakistan, my understanding of sex was shrouded in silence. Sadia and I both navigate a world where discussions about sex are off-limits. We delve into how cultural norms can hinder the exploration of one's sexuality. With humor and honesty, Sadia leads us on a journey of sexual empowerment and self-discovery. Join the conversation: Instagram @immigrantlypod | Twitter @immigrantly_pod | Youtube @immigrantlypod | Tiktok @Immigrantlypodcast Immigrantly is a light-hearted, introspective weekly podcast that celebrates the extraordinariness of immigrant life. Our mission is to challenge and disrupt one-dimensional narratives about immigrants and people of color in America. We do this by providing our listeners with authentic, unvarnished insights into the immigrant identity in America. Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can contact us at http://immigrantlypod.com Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us! Contribute to the show on Venmo @immigrantlypod You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan Email: [email protected] For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Bobak Afshari & Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices