Arab Is Me Podcast

What are the things Arab families know are happening—but are still afraid to talk about?On this episode of Arab Is Me, Said Durrah sits down with Dr. Linda Humaidan Zayed, a public health researcher, educator, and community health expert whose work focuses on health equity, mental health, women’s health, intimate partner violence prevention, and Arab and minority communities.This conversation goes places Arab families often don’t.Dr. Linda and Said talk about mental health and the stigma around therapy, intergenerational trauma, domestic violence and abuse, substance use, survivor’s guilt, the immigrant experience, and the pressure many Arabs feel to simply “stay strong.” They also explore what happens when one generation says, “I had it worse,” instead of validating what the next generation is going through.But this conversation isn’t about blaming Arab culture. It’s about understanding it.What should we preserve? What needs to change? How do war, displacement, immigration, family expectations, shame and the idea of “3ayb” shape the way we deal with pain? And most importantly—how do we break unhealthy cycles without losing the community, family and identity that make our culture so special?As Dr. Linda explains in the episode, sometimes “the nothing is what got us here in the first place.” Talking about difficult things may be uncomfortable—but silence has consequences. ARABS NEED TO TALK.If this conversation resonates with you, please LIKE the episode, SUBSCRIBE to Arab Is Me, and SHARE it with someone who needs to hear it. And tell us in the comments: What is something you think Arab families need to talk about more?MENTAL HEALTH & COMMUNITY RESOURCESIf you or someone you know needs support, Dr. Linda provided resources for culturally responsive mental health care, domestic violence and abuse support, crisis intervention, and Arab/MENA and Muslim communities. Arab American Mental Health Association (AAMHA) Resources for Arab Americans, including mental health, domestic violence, crisis intervention and finding support: Arab American Mental Health Association ResourcesAMENA-Psy — Find a Therapist The American Arab, Middle Eastern, and North African Psychological Association offers resources for finding mental health professionals familiar with MENA cultural backgrounds. AMENA-PsyInclusive Therapists Directory for finding culturally responsive mental health providers. Inclusive TherapistsAmerican Muslim Health Professionals — Mental Health Resources Mental health resources and support for Muslim communities. AMHP Mental Health ResourcesArab-American Family Support Center Trauma-informed and culturally responsive services, including support related to mental health, domestic violence and child abuse. Arab-American Family Support CenterAdditional MENA Mental Health Resources Mental Health America — Arab Descent Resources Mental Health Resources for MENA IndividualsDOMESTIC VIOLENCE & ABUSE SUPPORTDr. Linda also provided a number of organizations offering culturally sensitive domestic violence services, counseling, intervention and, in some cases, emergency housing. Arab American Family Services (Illinois) Arab American Family ServicesArab American Association of New York — Mental Health & Domestic Violence Support Arab American Association of New YorkArab Women's Services — Asian Women's Shelter Support for Arab survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. Arab Women's ServicesIMMEDIATE CRISIS SUPPORT988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 for free, confidential, 24/7 crisis support. 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineNational Domestic Violence Hotline Call 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for 24/7 support. National Domestic Violence HotlineThis episode is intended for education and conversation and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health care. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact emergency services in your area.Follow Arab Is Me: Instagram & TikTok: @arabismepodcast🎙️ New episodes of Arab Is Me every Wednesday.#ArabIsMe #ArabMentalHealth #ArabAmerican #MentalHealth #IntergenerationalTrauma #ArabFamilies #MENA #BreakingTheStigma #Podcast #DrLindaHumaidanZayedSend us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Episode 15 is different. No guest. No script. Just Said Durrah — and a mailbag full of questions he had never seen before.After spending the first 14 episodes asking everyone else the questions, Said finally gets put in the hot seat for the first-ever Arab Is Me Mailbag.And apparently, nothing was off limits.Am I Palestinian enough? Have I ever turned down money because of Palestine? Who surprised me most in Arab entertainment? Do I regret spending so much of my career building other people instead of building myself? What do I think the Arab community gets right — and where are we getting it completely wrong?Said also talks Mohammed Assaf, the Arab Is Me guests who have affected him most, Arab identity, supporting our own businesses and culture, why he refuses to change the pronunciation of his name, and — naturally — the important debate of maqluba vs. mansaf.This one is personal. It's funny. It gets uncomfortable. There are tangents. There are opinions. And there are answers Said didn't have time to prepare.Welcome to the Mailbag. 📬🔥Want your question in the next one?Email [email protected] with MAILBAG in the subject line.Like, follow, subscribe, comment and share Arab Is Me with someone who needs to hear these conversations.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on the Arab Is Me Podcast are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organizations, employers, sponsors, platforms, or partners. This podcast is intended for informational, cultural, and entertainment purposes. References to individuals, organizations, events, or current affairs reflect personal perspectives and experiences discussed during the conversation.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Hani Almadhoun has lost two brothers in Gaza. Yet through unimaginable grief, his family has continued feeding people across Gaza.In this deeply personal episode of Arab Is Me, Said sits down with Hani Almadhoun, Palestinian American humanitarian, Director of Philanthropy at UNRWA USA, and co-founder of the Gaza Soup Kitchen.Hani opens up about the loss of his brothers Majid and Mahmoud, the work his family continues to do on the ground in Gaza, and the impossible reality of helping thousands of people while knowing there are always more people you cannot reach.They also talk about something that too often gets lost behind the headlines: the beauty of Gaza.The beach. The food. The family gatherings. The humor. The ingenuity. The random uncle who shows up. The sounds and smells that immediately take you home. Hani reminds us that Gaza isn't simply a place of destruction or suffering. It is home.Said and Hani also get into the responsibility of humanitarian organizations to be transparent, raising Palestinian children in America, the importance of Arab and Palestinian political engagement, and why our community needs to show up, vote, organize, donate, and tell our own stories.And then we head to Al-Bab, where things get lighter: Ghazawi food debates, Arab dinner etiquette, Abdel Halim vs. Mohammed Assaf, the nonprofit question Hani is tired of hearing, and whether buying someone coffee really counts as paying them back for a steak dinner.This is a conversation about grief, family, service, resilience, and a family that refused to stop feeding Gaza.🎙️ Arab Is Me — Real Arabs. Real Stories. Real Conversations.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Arab Is Me Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, the podcast, its team, sponsors, or affiliated organizations. The content of this episode is intended for informational and conversational purposes.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

His family fled war in Iraq. Years later, DJ Ahmed would become one of the most recognized Arab DJs in America.After the Gulf War, Ahmed’s father fled Iraq and spent years in a refugee camp in Saudi Arabia before the family was eventually reunited and began a new life in the United States.Ahmed once dreamed of becoming a doctor, but his path would take him from working with refugees and building a career in tech to discovering an unexpected calling behind the DJ booth.In this episode of Arab Is Me, Ahmed opens up about growing up Iraqi in America, family expectations, leaving the traditional career path, battling imposter syndrome, knowing your worth, navigating faith and community expectations, and building spaces where Arabs can celebrate their culture through music.Then we put a professional DJ through Al-Bab, with some nearly impossible choices about Arab music, weddings, dancing, and which country really has the best music.This is a conversation about Iraq, family, survival, identity, music, entrepreneurship, and having the courage to bet on yourself.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Most people have no idea Palestine has a golf team.It does.And in this episode, Mike Easmeil shares the incredible story of how his family helped build the Palestine Golf program while his children proudly represent Palestine in international competition.But this conversation goes far beyond golf.Mike takes us through his family's journey from Palestine to Norfolk, Virginia, what it was like growing up Palestinian in a place with very few Arabs, and how reconnecting with his homeland transformed the way he viewed his identity.We also talk about comedy, raising children who are proud of their heritage, the importance of taking your family back to where they came from, and why representing Palestine is about much more than where you live.This is a conversation about family, identity, resilience, and the responsibility we all have to carry our culture forward.Whether you are passionate about Palestine, sports, or simply love hearing remarkable stories, this is an episode you will not want to miss.About Mike EasmeilMike Easmeil is a Palestinian American comedian, golfer, and advocate for the growth of Palestine Golf. Through his work with the Palestine Golf Association, he has helped create opportunities for Palestinian athletes around the world while supporting the next generation of golfers representing Palestine on the international stage.Subscribe to Arab Is Me on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us each week as we explore the stories, identities, and experiences that make up the Arab world.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Every two minutes, a mother dies from preventable complications during pregnancy or childbirth.It's a heartbreaking statistic—but one that Isra Chaker refuses to accept.In this episode of Arab Is Me, Said Durrah sits down with Isra Chaker, Founder & CEO of Every Pregnancy, to discuss one of the most overlooked issues in our communities: maternal health.Isra shares her own experience with a complicated pregnancy, the inspiration behind launching Every Pregnancy, and why she believes every community has a role to play in ensuring no mother dies from preventable causes.Together, they explore why conversations around pregnancy, fertility, postpartum health, and motherhood are still considered taboo, and what it will take to change that.In this episode, you'll hear about: Why maternal mortality remains a global crisis.  Isra's personal pregnancy journey and how it changed her life.  Why pregnancy and fertility are conversations we need to stop avoiding.  How simple, affordable interventions are already saving mothers' lives.  The role faith, philanthropy, and community can play in protecting mothers and babies.  How men, families, and friends can better support women during pregnancy and postpartum.  Why investing in mothers is one of the most impactful investments we can make. And because this is Arab Is Me, the episode wraps up with our signature Al Bab rapid-fire questions, where Isra shares her favorite Syrian dishes, reflects on Arab culture, family traditions, and answers a few fun questions you won't hear anywhere else.Whether you're a parent, hope to become one, work in healthcare or humanitarian aid, or simply want to better understand the experiences of mothers around the world, this conversation is filled with insight, compassion, and hope.Guest: Isra Chaker Organization: Every PregnancySubscribe to Arab Is Me for new conversations every Wednesday featuring inspiring voices from across the Arab world and diaspora.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Linda Sarsour has spent decades organizing communities, advocating for justice, and becoming one of the most recognizable Palestinian-American voices in the world. But this conversation goes far beyond the headlines.On this episode of Arab Is Me, Linda joins Said Durrah for an honest conversation about home, identity, family, and what it truly means to fight for something you love.She reflects on being denied entry into Palestine, why no one can take your homeland out of your heart, the beauty of growing up Arab, and the responsibility we all have to build stronger communities. Together, they explore the difference between social media and real impact, why solidarity begins with showing up for others, and how ordinary people can create extraordinary change.Along the way, Linda shares personal stories from her childhood in Brooklyn, lessons from her parents, unforgettable moments from Palestine, and why hope continues to guide her work.And because this is Arab Is Me, the episode ends with our signature Al Bab segment, where Linda takes on rapid-fire questions about Arab culture, weddings, hasad, Fairuz vs. Umm Kulthum, and much more.Whether you've followed Linda's journey for years or are meeting her for the first time, this episode offers a side of her that audiences rarely get to see—personal, reflective, humorous, and deeply rooted in what it means to call a place home.Connect with Linda SarsourInstagram: @lsarsourWebsite: lindasarsour.comIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Arab Is Me on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe on YouTube for new episodes every Wednesday.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

What does it mean to dream without limits?In this episode of Arab Is Me, host Said Durrah sits down with Omar Kurdi—a CEO, musician, poet, actor, author, and community leader whose life has been guided by one simple philosophy:"Be a dreamer who dares to dream."Born in San Francisco and raised between Muscat, Oman and Amman, Jordan, Omar has spent his life building bridges through leadership, creativity, and service. Most recently, his self-funded music video celebrating Jordan's historic FIFA World Cup qualification reached more than one million views in just two weeks, introducing his music to audiences around the world.But this conversation goes far beyond music.Together, Said and Omar explore what it means to embrace your Arab identity, preserve your family's stories, pursue creativity without fear, and build a legacy defined not by titles—but by purpose. They discuss community organizing, nonprofit leadership, poetry, theater, music, faith, storytelling, and why the people who change the world are often those courageous enough to dream before anyone else believes it's possible.In this episode, we discuss:Growing up between America, Oman, and JordanThe story behind Omar's million-view World Cup anthemWhat it truly means to be ArabBuilding community through leadership and servicePreserving family history before it's lostPoetry, music, theater, and writing a deeply personal novelAuthenticity, purpose, and chasing meaningful workWhy everyone should dare to dream biggerThe legacy we leave behindWhether you're an artist, entrepreneur, advocate, or simply searching for purpose, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to choose between your passions. Sometimes the greatest thing you can do is simply become the person you were created to be.Connect with Omar Kurdi🌐 Website: https://omarkurdi.net📸 Instagram: @omarkurdiofficial🎵 YouTube: Kurdi Music OfficialAbout Arab Is MeHosted by comedian Said Durrah, Arab Is Me explores the stories, cultures, identities, and experiences that shape what it means to be Arab today. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, advocates, entertainers, and changemakers, we celebrate the diversity, resilience, humor, and humanity of our community—one story at a time.New episodes every Wednesday.Follow Arab Is Me🎙️ YouTube: @arabismepodcast📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast𝕏 X: @arabismepodAlso available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and wherever you listen to podcasts.DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed by guests on Arab Is Me are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast or its host. This podcast is intended to encourage thoughtful conversation, celebrate Arab voices, and foster greater understanding through storytelling.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

What does it take to go from addiction and rock bottom to becoming a TEDx speaker, serial entrepreneur, and trusted strategist for Fortune 500 companies?In this episode of Arab Is Me, Said Durrah sits down with Sam Ghanem for an honest conversation about resilience, identity, recovery, and rebuilding a life with purpose.Born to Lebanese parents and raised in South Florida, Sam shares the deeply personal story of childhood adversity, addiction, losing nearly everything she had built, and the determination that helped her transform her life. Today, she is the Founder of SG INK, a Fractional CMO, comedian, TEDx speaker, and entrepreneur helping Fortune 500 companies, high-growth organizations, and visionary entrepreneurs build authentic brands and meaningful businesses.Together, Said and Sam discuss growing up Arab-American, overcoming addiction, finding authenticity, the role comedy has played in healing, and why your greatest setbacks don't have to define your future.Whether you're navigating your own challenges or simply looking for an inspiring story of perseverance, this episode is a reminder that it's never too late to rewrite your story.Connect with Sam GhanemInstagram: @samwghanemEpisode HighlightsSam's journey from addiction and rock bottom to the TEDx stageGrowing up Arab-AmericanRebuilding after failureAuthenticity in life and businessComedy as a path to healingEntrepreneurship with purposeDefining success on your own termsAbout Arab Is MeHosted by comedian Said Durrah, Arab Is Me explores the people, cultures, stories, and experiences that shape what it means to be Arab today through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, advocates, entertainers, and changemakers from across the Arab world and diaspora.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on Arab Is Me are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast or its host. This content is intended for conversation, education, and entertainment.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Palestinian Tatreez is more than embroidery. It is history, identity, storytelling, and resistance stitched into fabric.In this episode, Said Durrah sits down with Palestinian Tatreez artist, designer, and educator Amanne Sharif, founder of Min Amanne Tatreez Designs, to explore the incredible history behind this centuries-old art form and why preserving it matters now more than ever.Amanne shares how Tatreez once communicated everything from a woman’s village and marital status to grief and celebration, and how it continues to connect Palestinians around the world to their land, people, and culture.They also discuss cultural appropriation, supporting Palestinian artisans ethically, the true value of handmade work, bringing ancient traditions into modern fashion, humanitarian work with refugees, and why culture must be preserved while still being allowed to evolve.And, of course, things get a little less serious when Said tries to convince Arab men that learning Tatreez might just be the ultimate dating cheat code.Learn more about Amanne and her work at MinAmanne.com.Follow @arabismepodcast for more Arab stories, laughs, culture, and conversations.New episodes every Wednesday.DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by guests on the Arab Is Me Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Arab Is Me, the podcast, or its host, Said Durrah.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Nurse Lana joins the Arab Is Me Podcast for one of our most powerful conversations yet. A critical care nurse, humanitarian, author, entrepreneur, and Mrs. Arab USA, Lana shares what she witnessed while volunteering inside Gaza, the survivor's guilt that followed her home, and the remarkable resilience of the Palestinian people. We also discuss her book Healing Under Fire, advocacy, identity, faith, and the moments that changed her life forever—along with plenty of laughter and our signature Arab rapid-fire questions.Guest: Nurse Lana 📍 Critical Care Nurse | Humanitarian | Author of Healing Under Fire | Mrs. Arab USA | AdvocateFollow Nurse Lana: @nurse_lanaArab Is Me Podcast is where comedians, creators, leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, and changemakers share authentic conversations about Arab identity, culture, heritage, and the stories that shape who we are.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.📲 Follow @arabismepodcast on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.#ArabIsMe #NurseLana #Palestine #Gaza #Healthcare #Humanitarian #HealingUnderFire #ArabPodcast #Palestinian #ArabAmerican #MiddleEast #PodcastSend us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Most people know Nina Kharoufeh as the hilarious hijabi comedian with millions of views, appearances on TLC's Muslim Matchmaker, the Food Network, and stages around the world. But in this episode of the Arab Is Me Podcast, we go far beyond the viral clips.Nina opens up about what it's really like navigating life as a Palestinian-American, Muslim, comedian, author, amateur boxer, and public figure who often feels misunderstood. Together, we discuss the pressure of representing an entire community, the double standards placed on hijabi women, speaking out for Palestine, cancel culture, identity, stereotypes, and why so many people get her wrong.We also dive into the current state of Arab comedy, what audiences still don't understand about Muslim entertainers, performing in Palestine, social media, and the personal experiences that shaped Nina into the person she is today.Of course, it wouldn't be Arab Is Me without plenty of laughs along the way—from Malfoof vs. Warak Enab debates to awkward Arab weddings, family WhatsApp groups, dating, and rapid-fire questions that put Nina on the spot.Whether you've followed Nina for years or you're meeting her for the first time, this conversation reveals a side of her that rarely gets the spotlight.In this episode:Nina's journey through comedy and entertainmentGrowing up Palestinian and Muslim in AmericaThe double standards of being a hijabi comedianSpeaking out for Palestine and handling public criticismWhy lazy Arab comedy holds our community backLife behind social media and common misconceptionsArab culture, family traditions, and identityA hilarious rapid-fire Arab "This or That" finaleFollow Nina Kharoufeh:Instagram: @ninakharoufehFollow Arab Is Me:Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & X: @arabismepodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves authentic conversations about Arab identity, culture, and the stories that connect us.Send us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

**What does it take to spend your career defending a community—and what happens when one chapter comes to an end?**In this episode of **Arab Is Me**, Said Durrah sits down with attorney, civil rights advocate, and former Executive Director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), **Abed Ayoub**, for an honest conversation about Arab identity, advocacy, leadership, and what's next.Abed shares his journey growing up in **Dearborn, Michigan**, why the city is so often misunderstood, and how it shaped his commitment to protecting civil rights and serving the Arab American community. Together, Said and Abed discuss the realities of immigration law, the challenges facing Arab advocacy organizations, the importance of strong local leadership, and the lessons learned from leading one of the nation's most recognizable Arab American civil rights organizations.The conversation also explores Abed's transition following his time at ADC, his vision for the future of Arab advocacy, and why meaningful change often begins at the local level—not just in Washington.**In this episode:**• Why Dearborn is one of the most misunderstood cities in America• Growing up Arab American in Michigan• Defending civil rights and immigrant communities• The realities of immigration law and advocacy• Leadership during times of crisis• Lessons learned after leading ADC• The future of Arab advocacy in America• Building stronger local communities• Rapid-fire Arab dilemmas in Al-Bab---**About Arab Is Me**Hosted by **Said Durrah**, *Arab Is Me* explores the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through authentic conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, every episode celebrates the diversity of the Arab experience—one story at a time.If you enjoyed this episode, please **like**, **subscribe**, and **share** it with someone who would enjoy the conversation. New episodes released regularly.Follow Arab Is Me:📺 YouTube:🎧 Spotify:🍎 Apple Podcasts:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast#AbedAyoub #ArabIsMe #SaidDurrah #Dearborn #DearbornMichigan #ArabAmerican #CivilRights #Advocacy #ADC #ImmigrationLaw #MiddleEast #PodcastSend us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

What does it mean to be "too Arab" for one world and "too American" for another?In this episode of Arab Is Me, Said Durrah sits down with Iraqi-American comedian, actress, writer, and content creator Reem Edan for one of the most honest conversations you'll hear about identity, belonging, comedy, and the pressure of representing your community.Reem opens up about growing up between two cultures, navigating the expectations placed on Arab and Muslim women, finding success in comedy, and why she still sometimes struggles with feeling "Arab enough." Together, Said and Reem explore representation, social media, family expectations, the role of comedy during difficult times, and what it really means to build an authentic life without losing yourself.Along the way, they also share plenty of laughs—from Arab weddings and Iraqi food to dating, parents, and the everyday moments every Arab family will recognize.In this episode:• Growing up Iraqi-American• Feeling caught between two identities• Building a career in stand-up comedy• Family expectations and cultural pressure• Comedy during times of war and crisis• Social media, representation, and authenticity• Why success doesn't always quiet self-doubt• Rapid-fire Arab dilemmas in Al-BabAbout Arab Is MeHosted by Said Durrah, Arab Is Me explores the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, every episode celebrates the diversity of the Arab experience—one story at a time.If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would appreciate it. New episodes released regularly.Follow Arab Is Me:📺 YouTube:🎧 Spotify:🍎 Apple Podcasts:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast#ReemEdan #ArabIsMe #SaidDurrah #Iraqi #IraqiAmerican #ArabAmerican #StandUpComedy #Comedy #Identity #Podcast #MiddleEastern #ArabCultureSend us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

In this episode of Arab Is Me, Said Durrah sits down with award-winning comedian, actor, and Ramy star Dave Merheje for an honest conversation about comedy, Arab identity, family, and finding your authentic voice.Dave shares how growing up in a Lebanese household shaped his career, why authenticity matters more than stereotypes, how his family supported an unconventional dream, and the lessons he's learned from years on stage and screen.Whether you're an aspiring comedian, a fan of Dave's work, or simply interested in the stories that shape the Arab experience, this conversation offers insight, humor, and plenty of unforgettable moments.In this episode:• Dave's journey from aspiring comedian to award-winning performer• Growing up Lebanese in Canada• Why Arab families are natural storytellers• The art of stand-up comedy• Finding your own voice instead of copying others• Family support and pursuing unconventional careers• Life on stage, acting, and everything in betweenAbout Arab Is MeArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah that explores the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through authentic conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, activists, athletes, creators, and community leaders, every episode celebrates the diversity of the Arab experience—one story at a time.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe and follow so you never miss an episode.Follow Arab Is Me at  @ArabIsMePodcast  📸 Instagram:🎵 TikTok:▶️ YouTube:🎧 Spotify:🍎 Apple Podcasts:#DaveMerheje #ArabIsMe #SaidDurrah #Lebanese #Arab #Comedy #StandUpComedy #Ramy #Podcast #ArabAmerican #MiddleEastern #StorytellingSend us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: 

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Arab Is Me Podcast.In this episode, I share the story behind why I created Arab Is Me and the mission behind the podcast.For too long, other people have tried to define what it means to be Arab. Arab Is Me is a space for Arabs to tell their own stories, share their experiences, and define themselves on their own terms.Subscribe for future conversations with artists, comedians, entrepreneurs, activists, community leaders, and everyday people from across the Arab world and diaspora.Follow Arab Is Me On All Major Socials @arabismepodcastInstagram: @arabismepodcastTikTok: @arabismepodcastFacebook: Arab Is Me PodcasX: @arabismepodcast#ArabIsMe #ArabPodcast #ArabIdentitySend us Fan MailArab Is Me is a podcast hosted by Said Durrah exploring the many ways people experience, express, and define what it means to be Arab. Through conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, comedians, and community leaders, each episode celebrates the stories, cultures, and perspectives that make our community so unique.🎙️ New episodes released regularly.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and follow @arabismepodcast for behind-the-scenes content, clips, and upcoming guests.🌐 Website: arabismepodcast.com📺 YouTube: arabismepodcast🎧 Apple Podcasts:🎧 Spotify:📸 Instagram: @arabismepodcast🎵 TikTok: @arabismepodcast📘 Facebook: