Episode 151: When Global Conflict Hits Home - Gazelle Sharmahd & Walid Phares

What happens when global conflict becomes deeply personal? In this episode of Mom Curious, Daniella sits down with human rights advocate Gazelle Sharmahd and Middle East expert Dr. Walid Phares to discuss the escalating tensions involving Israel, the United States, and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Gazelle’s advocacy began after the abduction of her father, Jamshid Sharmahd, a German-American dissident who was kidnapped in 2020 and taken to Iran. His case became an international human rights story and transformed Gazelle’s life, moving her from private citizen to outspoken advocate for political prisoners and freedom movements. Joined by foreign policy scholar Walid Phares, the conversation explores the broader geopolitical context surrounding Iran’s ruling regime, the role of the IRGC, and how these global conflicts affect families, civilians, and the future of democracy in the region. Together, they discuss resilience, advocacy, and the emotional toll of fighting for justice on the world stage. This conversation examines what happens when the fight for freedom begins at home - and why understanding these conflicts matters to all of us raising the next generation. Listen, share with a friend, and follow Mom Curious wherever you get your podcasts. GUEST BIO Gazelle Sharmahd is a human rights advocate and freedom activist who has spoken internationally about political prisoners, authoritarian regimes, and the fight for civil liberties following the abduction of her father, Jamshid Sharmahd. She works to raise awareness about human rights violations and advocates for political prisoners around the world. Dr. Walid Phares is a Middle East expert, foreign policy analyst, and author specializing in geopolitics, counterterrorism, and international security. He has advised policymakers and governments on global security issues and frequently appears in international media to discuss developments in the Middle East. Together, they co-host the podcast War & Freedom, where they explore global politics, human rights, and the future of democratic societies.AFFILIATE LINKS & MENTIONS To Book at Hoff Studios: https://www.nycpodstudio.com/home-mc $30 off WTHN Acupuncture Booking with code MOMCURIOUS30 More Info on EVOLV GLP-1 Supplements Follow @momcurious and the Host @daniellarabbani Guests: @walidphares @freejamshidsharmahd Subscribe, rate, and review - it helps get the word out about the show and keeps these conversations going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices