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PODCAST · health

Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi

Mad Genius explores the links between comedy, intelligence and mental health with comedian Ariel Kashanchi. Each week Ariel talks to comedian friends, experts, and other artists about the link between creativity and their mental health journeys. This season Ariel is diving in and sharing her experience with Ketamine infusions and TMS to heal her longtime depression and PTSD.

  1. 61

    Royal Rumors, Sperm Racers & Smile Police: Ariel's Guide to Peak Absurdity

    This week on Mad Genius, comedian Ariel Kashanchi dives headfirst into a cultural fever dream so chaotic it might actually be… inspirational? Ariel kicks things off with her brutally honest (and probably legally concerning) review of Kim Kardashian's new show All's Fair, where everyone is suing everyone and somehow Kim is still the calmest person in the room. Then it's time for the newest elite sport that absolutely no one asked for: sperm racing—yes, actual scientists are out here timing the Michael Phelps of microscopic swimmers, and Ariel has a LOT of questions. Meanwhile, Target has apparently decided the key to capitalism is mandatory smiling, and Ariel breaks down the dystopian nightmare of being "paid to beam." She also covers the upcoming nude bowling event, which is either a bold celebration of body positivity or a lawsuit in slippery shoes. Finally, Ariel unpacks Megan Markle and Prince Harry rolling up to Kris Jenner's 70th birthday bash—an event so star-studded it could cause a solar eclipse—and wonders if this is the first sign of a Kardashian–Montecito merger. It's weird. It's unhinged. It's informative in the wrong ways. It's Mad Genius. Tune in. 🎧

  2. 60

    Birthday Blasts, Checkout Fistfights & Naked Protests: A Wild Ride with Ariel Kashanchi

    In this episode of Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi, comedian Ariel Kashanchi takes us on a rollicking tour through three unforgettable stories: the (semi) sober celebration of her birthday that somehow involved cake, karaoke, and existential dread; the absurd showdown at Marshalls when one woman decided it was her turn in the discount line and another woman felt differently (spoiler: fists may have been involved); and a topless protest in Portland that redefined "making a statement" (yes, she was there). Along the way we talk chaos, culture, and why sometimes the only response to crazy is to laugh. Tune in for witty rawness, Persian-roots commentary, and the kind of storytelling you'll want to share with a friend—and maybe think twice before letting anyone ahead of you in the clearance line.

  3. 59

    COVID, Dog Parties & Taco Bell Sprints: A Very Ariel Kashanchi Story

    In this wild episode of Mad Genius, Ariel Kashanchi takes us through a week she won't soon forget: experiencing COVID for the first time, going on a cringe-y date with a guy who may or may not be patient zero, and somehow still finding the energy to attend a dog party (yes, that's a thing). As the cherry on top, she signs up — and survives — a Taco Bell "ultra marathon" (definitions may vary). Come for the germs, stay for the laughs. Ariel dives into what it's like to be contagious and socially awkward, how she held her boundaries mid-cough, and the absurdity of chasing tacos while trying not to collapse. You'll laugh, you'll groan, and you may never eat a Crunchwrap the same way again. Trigger / disclaimer: This episode contains talk of illness, dating mishaps, and mild cardiovascular recklessness. Not medical advice — always consult professionals when feeling sick (and maybe skip that ultra marathon).

  4. 58

    Weed, Wounds & What Helped — Ariel on Quitting, Making Amends, and Spravato

    In this raw episode, comedian and host Ariel Kashanchi opens up about walking away from weed, what finally pushed her to reconcile with her estranged parents, and how Spravato treatments fit into her mental health journey. Ariel talks through the messy middle—shame, humor, boundaries, and forgiveness—plus what the treatment days feel like, the unexpected side effects, and the ways sobriety has sharpened her writing and stand-up. It's a candid look at breaking cycles, rebuilding family, and finding real relief without losing your edge. (This conversation reflects Ariel's personal experience and is not medical advice; please talk to a healthcare professional about treatment options.)

  5. 57

    Catface Regrets, Road Rage Poop, and the Rise of the Octopus Overlords

    In this wildly unhinged episode of Mad Genius, comedian Ariel Kashanchi dives headfirst into the internet's most bizarre headlines. First up: Australian TikToker Jolene Dawson spent $8,000 on cosmetic procedures to look like a cat—only to end up with painful complications and a mountain of regret . Next, Ariel unpacks the viral road rage incident involving 44-year-old Christina Solometo, who was caught on camera defecating on another driver's car during a traffic dispute in Pennsylvania  Then, we explore the eerie possibility that octopuses could become Earth's dominant species if humans go extinct, thanks to their remarkable intelligence and adaptability . Finally, Ariel discusses the controversial case of Melissa Nelson, a dental assistant who was fired for being "too attractive," a decision upheld by the Iowa Supreme Court . From feline transformations to cephalopod supremacy, this episode is a rollercoaster of the absurd. Tune in for laughs, gasps, and the kind of stories that make you question reality.

  6. 56

    High School High: THC Gummies, Horseback Walmart Bandits & a McGriddle 911 Call

    On this episode of Mad Genius, comedian and host Ariel Kashanchi recounts what happened when she took her cat on a walk (spoiler: the cat had notes), and dives into the absurdity of recent headlines: a substitute teacher handing out THC gummies to a classroom of teens, four cowboys who decided Walmart was their new rodeo arena, and a 911 operator who casually ordered a McGriddle while someone was reporting a crime. Expect jokes, judgment, and just enough chaos to make you question reality. 🔹 Hosted by: Ariel Kashanchi 🔹 Topics: Weird news, stoned teachers, rogue cowboys, fast food emergencies, and cat mom confessions 🔹 Perfect for fans of: Dark humor, bizarre news, and comedy with a WTF twist Hit play and prepare to laugh, cringe, and yell "what the hell?!" at least five times.

  7. 55

    Emotional Support Tigers, Pyro Landlords & Dating Disasters – Ariel Spills All

    In this wild ride of an episode, Mad Genius host and comedian Ariel Kashanchi shares her most hilarious and cringe-worthy dating blunders — including one guy who may or may not have owned emotional support tigers. Ariel dives into the unbelievable story of a landlord who torched his own building, a doctor who tried to turn a hike into a homicide, and more true crime-y, WTF moments you won't believe are real. Whether you're into twisted tales, dark humor, or just need to feel better about your own love life, this episode delivers. Hit play, laugh hard, and remember: your worst date could've involved a tiger.

  8. 54

    Far-Right Matchmaking, Police Chief Scandals, and Navigating Narcissism

    In this episode of the Mad Genius podcast, comedian Ariel Kashanchi delves into three compelling topics:​ Far-Right Matchmaking Conference: Ariel explores the recent Natal Conference in Austin, Texas, where far-right influencers hosted a $10,000-per-person matchmaking event aimed at promoting increased birth rates. The conference featured controversial speakers and sparked debates over its eugenics-aligned ideologies.  New Jersey Police Chief Scandal: She discusses the shocking allegations against North Bergen Police Chief Robert Farley, accused of spiking colleagues' coffee with Viagra, defecating on floors, and other disturbing behaviors that have led to legal actions and public outcry.  Encountering a Narcissist in Mental Health Programs: Ariel shares her personal experiences dealing with an individual exhibiting narcissistic traits within her mental health program, offering insights into the challenges of navigating relationships with narcissistic personalities.​ Join Ariel as she combines humor and critical analysis to unpack these stories, shedding light on the intersections of politics, law enforcement, and mental health.

  9. 53

    Bumble Fumbles, Monster Under the Bed & Catfished by Enrique Iglesias?!

    In this wildly unhinged episode of Mad Genius, comedian and chaos connoisseur Ariel Kashanchi dives into the absurd and hilarious stories taking over the internet. From her disastrous Bumble dates (why are they always DJs?) to a kid who legit found a monster under his bed—yes, really—Ariel breaks it all down with her signature wit. Also on the docket: 👉 A homeless man running for mayor of Seattle 👉 A woman who was catfished into thinking she was dating Enrique Iglesias 👉 And the state of Florida debating child labor laws because… of course they are. Get ready for hot takes, big laughs, and the kind of commentary you didn't know you needed.

  10. 52

    Bumble Fails & a White Woman Who Identifies as Black – WTF?

    In this episode of Mad Genius, comedian Ariel Kashanchi spills the tea on her wildest Bumble dates—think ghosting, weird flexes, and dudes who should've stayed in the drafts. Then, things get even weirder when she dives into the story of a white German woman who identifies as Black and is planning to move to Africa. Yep, you read that right. Tune in for unfiltered takes, dark humor, and the kind of commentary you won't hear anywhere else. 🎧 Listen now for laughs, cringe, and a whole lot of "WTF?!" #ComedyPodcast #DatingFails #BumbleDisasters #IdentityCrisis #MadGeniusPod

  11. 51

    Swipe Right on Chaos: Dating Apps, Fyre Fest 2, and Crimes of Passion

    Comedian Ariel Kashanchi is back on the dating apps, and she's spilling the tea on the wild world of modern romance. But that's not all—this episode of Mad Genius dives into the insanity of Fyre Fest 2 (yes, it's happening), the Tiffany's thief who swallowed stolen earrings mid-heist, and a truly disturbing Texas couple who took "kink" way too far. Buckle up for a hilarious, unfiltered ride through the week's most outrageous headlines. #ComedyPodcast #ArielKashanchi #DatingFails #TrueCrime #FyreFest2 #WeirdNews

  12. 50

    "With Love, Meghan" Review, Oscars Tea, Casey Anthony's Rebrand & Ariel's Mid-Speed Chase

    This week on The Mad Genius Podcast, Ariel Kashanchi dives into the wildest pop culture and true crime stories making headlines. First up, she reviews Meghan Markle's new show "With Love, Meghan"—is it a heartfelt comeback or another PR play? Then, she spills all the juicy details from an Oscars viewing party—who showed up, who showed out, and who should've stayed home. Things take a darker turn as Ariel unpacks Casey Anthony's shocking rebrand as a legal advocate (yes, you read that right) and the disturbing reports of officers at a juvenile detention center organizing gladiator-style fights. Plus, she shares the story of that one time she was in a mid-speed chase (because high-speed was just too mainstream). And finally, Call Me By Your Scandal? Armie Hammer is back—this time with a new podcast. Is it redemption or just more damage control? Tune in for Ariel's unfiltered takes, sharp wit, and no-holds-barred commentary on the madness of the week. 🎧 Listen now and embrace the chaos!

  13. 49

    Mental Health Updates, TikTok Insanity & The Mayor Who Faked His Own Hit

    Host and comedian Ariel Kashanchi is back with a hilarious and unfiltered update on her mental health journey, plus a deep dive into the internet's latest absurdities. From bizarre TikTok trends to the Brazilian mayor who staged his own assassination attempt, Ariel breaks down the week's wildest headlines. Ever heard of people renting chickens to deal with the egg shortage? Yeah, that's a thing now. Plus, she covers the nightmare flight where passengers sat next to a corpse and Elon Musk's DOGE-inspired email to federal employees. Tune in for laughs, chaos, and a dose of genius-level ridiculousness! 🎙️🐓💀🚀

  14. 48

    Valentine's Day Disaster, Shark Selfies Gone Wrong & LSD for Anxiety

    In this wild episode of The Mad Genius Podcast, comedian Ariel Kashanchi spills the tea on her Valentine's Day disaster—because nothing says romance like chaos! Plus, a woman loses her hands trying to take a selfie with a shark (spoiler: bad idea), Florida monkeys test positive for herpes (why is it always Florida?), and a nursing home spices things up with a male stripper for its residents. Oh, and science is finally catching up with what hippies knew all along—LSD might actually help treat anxiety. Buckle up for an episode packed with absurd news, unfiltered takes, and plenty of laughs! 🎙️ Follow Ariel: @arielsnotamermaid on Instagram

  15. 47

    Ariel's Mental Health Journey, a $50K Psychic Scam, and Kid Rock's Meltdown

    In this episode of Mad Genius, host Ariel Kashanchi gets real about her mental health journey, sharing her experience at an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and the insights she gained. She also dives into the bizarre story of a woman who paid a psychic $50,000 to make someone fall in love with her—spoiler: it didn't work. Plus, the internet is clowning Kid Rock for storming off stage when the audience wouldn't clap along to his song. Tune in for wild stories, unfiltered takes, and hilarious commentary on the latest absurdities. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! 🔗 Follow Ariel on Instagram: @arielsnotamermaid

  16. 46

    Ribs, Priests, and Mental Health: Ariel's Wild Ride

    In this jaw-dropping episode of Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi, Ariel dives into the bizarre and the personal. She unpacks the shocking story of an influencer allegedly having her ribs removed for the aesthetic, the unsettling tale of a priest caught flossing his teeth with a teenage girl's hair (yes, you read that right), and gets real about her own journey—sharing candidly about entering a mental health treatment program. It's raw, it's ridiculous, it's real. If you love dark humor, unfiltered takes, and stories that make you question reality, this episode's for you. Hit play, and prepare to laugh, cringe, and maybe even feel a little inspired.

  17. 45

    Cat Portraits, Gen Z vs AI, and the Intrigue of Mata Hari

    In this hilarious and thought-provoking episode of Mad Genius, comedian Ariel Kashanchi dives into a whirlwind of topics that are equal parts funny and fascinating. Ariel shares the story behind taking a portrait with her cat and the unexpected chaos that ensued. She then tackles the growing concern of Gen Z workers facing job competition from AI, with her signature comedic spin. Finally, Ariel takes us on a journey through history, recounting the captivating and controversial life of Mata Hari—the dancer, courtesan, and accused spy who remains a symbol of intrigue and seduction. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a touch of mystery!

  18. 44

    Picking up Old Ladies in Parks

    Ariel talks about the tender moment she had with an old lady at a park, Snoop performing at the Inauguration, Elvis in the the military, and other things

  19. 43

    California Wildfires and Armie Hammer's Comeback

    Ariel talks about the devastation and general sadness in California around the fires and Armie Hammer's comeback among other things. 

  20. 42

    Meghan Markle and Mexican Cartels

    Ariel talks about why Meghan Markle can't catch a break and a Mexican town that loves their cartel Christmas.

  21. 41

    The Rise of Breast Implant Personalities: A Critical Examination

    In this episode of Mad Genius, host Ariel Kashanti shares her thoughts on toxic positivity and the phenomenon of "breast implant personalities." She discusses her own experiences with seizures and anxiety, as well as her observations of women who undergo breast implant surgery and how it can sometimes change their personalities. Ariel also touches on Paris Hilton's recent documentary and the use of a baby voice as a means of self-presentation.      

  22. 40

    Another Day, Another Seizure

    Ariel gets into the gory backstory of her latest seizure. 

  23. 39

    Stand Tall

    Ariel talks about entitled people with bad posture, Jew haters, and her worst performance.    DM me      

  24. 38

    Goodness Greta

    Ariel shares her thoughts on a range of topics in this episode of "Mad Genius." She discusses the rise of anti-Semitism and the strange profile of people who hate Jews, including many LGBTQ individuals and unattractive women. Ariel also reflects on her disappointing experiences with dating and the challenges of finding a compatible partner. She delves into the world of online dating apps and the difficulties of making meaningful connections. Additionally, Ariel expresses her disdain for Greta Thunberg and her activism, as well as her frustration with the current state of entitlement and victimhood culture. She concludes by discussing her struggles with depression and the impact of negative self-talk.

  25. 37

    Charlatans Everywhere

    Ariel talks about the rise of antisemitism and her attempts at dating.      DM me      

  26. 36

    Water Signs on Fire

    Ariel chats about the unimportance of zodiac signs and people who exploit Alcoholics Anonymous.     DM me       

  27. 35

    What Happened To Woke?

    In this short episode, Ariel talks about the meaning of the word woke and its devolution. Once upon a time, woke had a positive connotation and now we use it as an insult.      DM me

  28. 34

    Rainfall That Identifies As A Hurricane

    Ariel talks about Los Angeles culture and the hurricane that was actually moderate rainfall.  DM me

  29. 33

    The Psycho Family

    In this episode, we meet the Psycho Family, Ariel's fictional relatives who live up to their name. Ariel also chats about some of her psycho dating experiences and receiving Spravato, a ketamine derivative for treating depression.      DM me here

  30. 32

    The Evolution of Slut Shaming

    Ariel reflects on the evolution of slut shaming, distrusting people with excessive botox and filler,  She then shares her distrust of people who have excessive Botox and filler, and grown adults acting cutesy among other gripes.    DM me  

  31. 31
  32. 30

    The Pick Me Girl Problem

    Ariel talks about about "pick me girls" and their evolution, Greta Thunberg and precocious children, abuse as an asset, dating app profiles, charlatan of the moment Karlee Russell, wokeness vs progressiveness and some personal updates.    DM me

  33. 29

    What Goes Into Dating A Celebrity

    Ariel Kashanchi touches on Jonah Hill's leaked texts, unethical therapists, and why we should all look up to Meghan Markle. She also gets into her preference for not knowing about a partner's dating history and boring people telling banal stories.     DM me

  34. 28

    The Audacity of Mediocrity

    Ariel talks about her mental health, dating, and her recent diagnosis of focal seizures. She shares her thoughts on the dating landscape, the influence of romantic comedies, and life with seizures. Ariel also reflects on the inspiration she finds in mediocrity and how we should all dare to be mediocre.   Follow/DM Ariel at https://www.instagram.com/arielsnotamermaid/

  35. 27

    Conspiracy Date

    After a year of no dating, Ariel went on her first date with a Kabbalah-teaching conspiracy theorist narcissist. There won't be a second date, but you can hear all about that and some mental health epiphanies.

  36. 26

    New Brain, Still Insane

    I got a craniotomy over the holidays and this is what my recovery looks like. I do get a little emotional so please be kind.

  37. 25

    I Now Understand Free Britney

    I finally understand why so many people are obsessed with freeing Britney Spears. Britney was never the simpleton the public or her family thought she was. She was playing the long game along. And so are many of us.

  38. 24

    Oversharing Is Caring

    Dealing with depression is a lifelong battle and I share mine for a multitude of reasons. Personally, it's cathartic to verbalize my thoughts and process them. Knowing how lonely this condition is and how comforting it feels to have other people who understand it, I'd like to use this pain to help others heal. In this episode, I talk about the rollercoaster I've been on and how I'm dealing with having brain surgery this month (not well).  I hope this is helpful for anyone who feels this way and if you have any feedback or suggestions, DM me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/arielsnotamermaid/

  39. 23

    Repressed Memories Come To A Boiling Point

    Still recovering from my head injury and more on the memories I was able to repress for most of my life. 

  40. 22

    When It Gets Dark

    Sharing some of the things I'm struggling with right now and Part 2 of my story from the last pod. 

  41. 21

    You're Not Alone

    I was recently on the Was I In A Cult Podcast and realized that I'm not alone in a lot of the painful things I've experienced. So this is my story in detail. Part 1

  42. 20

    Morbid Curiosity Is Gross

    We're talking about morbid curiosity and the gross people who produce it and my latest diagnosis, brain AV malformation. Fun for everyone!

  43. 19

    The Most Traumatic Event Of My Life

    A week ago I lost consciousness in my apartment. This is the story. 

  44. 18

    You're my king

    Ariel talks about the Britney testimony, the great Erika Jayne, and getting hit on during therapy. 

  45. 17

    Ketamine Touchup

    Ariel just had a ketamine infusion today and she is sharing her wisdom from the other side. 

  46. 16

    How To Talk To Your Friends Who Are Going Through Some Sh*t

    Ariel talks about how her friends responded to her getting dumped and how you can talk to your friend when they're dealing with something without making it worse. Also I accidentally attended a sex party. 

  47. 15

    Ketamine, TMS & My New Brain

    Ariel talks about her Ketamine infusions and TMS therapy and how they changed her brain forever.    https://www.instagram.com/arielsnotamermaid/

  48. 14

    Getting My Brain Right with Dana Moon

    Ariel talks to comedian Dana Moon about starting TMS therapy and Ketamine infusions. They discuss the link between being funny and experiencing trauma, trying to find peace of mind, and using social media to share it.  Dana Moon can be found at https://www.instagram.com/danamoonme/ For more updates follow Ariel at https://www.instagram.com/arielsnotamermaid/

  49. 13

    Mysteries Solved - kind of

    Ariel explores the inner workings of the Menendez Brother trial, her unknown birthday, and grown women with baby voices.

  50. 12

    Charlatan Psychic, New Words for a New Time and Teenage Bully Revenge

    Ariel talks about the terrible psychic reading she just got, her made up vocabulary, the time she got revenge on a bully, and braving a Persian market mid pandemic. 

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Mad Genius explores the links between comedy, intelligence and mental health with comedian Ariel Kashanchi. Each week Ariel talks to comedian friends, experts, and other artists about the link between creativity and their mental health journeys. This season Ariel is diving in and sharing her experience with Ketamine infusions and TMS to heal her longtime depression and PTSD.

HOSTED BY

Ariel Kashanchi

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi have?

Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi about?

Mad Genius explores the links between comedy, intelligence and mental health with comedian Ariel Kashanchi. Each week Ariel talks to comedian friends, experts, and other artists about the link between creativity and their mental health journeys. This season Ariel is diving in and sharing her...

How often does Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi release new episodes?

Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi?

You can listen to Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi?

Mad Genius with Ariel Kashanchi is created and hosted by Ariel Kashanchi.
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