PCWB - A Professor & a Comedian Walk Into a Bar

In this episode of PCWB, we talk with Northwestern Professor Uri Wilensky, recent recipient of the Yidan Prize. We discuss his intellectual journey, the evolution of learning sciences, agent-based modeling and computational thinking, and how computers can help us better understand complex societal problems. Tap the link in bio to also listen on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast SAMIR ABDUL:👉 https://www.samirabdul.com MIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR VAKIL:👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/

In this episode of PCWB, we talk with Northwestern students Jackson Heller and Mateo Garcia-Bryce about Northwestern’s comedy scene, The Prattic, and Fringe Fest 2026. We also explore the longer legacy and history of comedy at Northwestern University, and how student-run spaces continue to shape creativity, performance, and community on campus in challenging times.Tap the link in bio to also listen on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast SAMIR ABDUL:👉 https://www.samirabdul.com MIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR VAKIL:👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/--------------------------------Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike Knight

On this episode of PCWB, the crew sits down with Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi for a candid and hilarious conversation about his journey from performing in Africa to navigating the comedy scene in America. Learnmore opens up about the recent Lion King controversy, cultural differences in comedy, and what it really takes to build a voice across continents. From early stages in Zimbabwe to finding his footing in the U.S., this episode blends sharp perspective with plenty of laughs.Tap the link in bio to also listen on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast SAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://www.samirabdul.com MIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR VAKIL: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/--------------------------------Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike Knight Producer: Raphael Nash

On this episode of PCWB, co-host Samir Abdul sits down with Haitian comedian TJ for a funny, honest conversation about immigrant life, finding your voice in standup, and why Chicago feels like a “real city” in a way LA doesn’t. TJ breaks down how he learned English through comedy, why the best jokes hit the “human hardware,” and how social media (and AI) can help comedians get seen... #PCWBpodcast SAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://www.samirabdul.com MIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR VAKIL: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehr... Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike Knight Producer: Raphael Nash

The Destined Legend, Leon Rogers joins the podcast to talk all things comedy, growing up in Chicago, the next generation and some of the most hilarious stories from a Chicago Legend! Tap the link in bio to also listen on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast SAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://www.samirabdul.com MIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR VAKIL: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehr... Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike Knight Producer: Raphael Nash

Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss joins the podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on ICE raids, housing pressures, and his vision for Evanston’s future—plus candid takes on what’s next for the city and its residents. Tap the link in bio to also listen on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast SAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://www.samirabdul.com MIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR VAKIL: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehr... Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike Knight Producer: Raphael Nash

The crew sits with immigration attorney Mark Atkinson, esq. to discuss the ongoing crisis in Sudan, and the legality of ICE's occupation in Chicago. Tap the link in bio to also listen on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast SAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://www.samirabdul.com MIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR VAKIL: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehr... -------------------------------- Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike Knight Producer: Raphael Nash

Taped on-campus at UCLA, the crew sits with the esteemed professor of Gender Studies, African-American Studies, and Information Studies, Safia Noble, PhD! The group discusses the connections between algorithms, oppressive systems, and the potential for AI's bubble to burst. As well as navigating stand up comedy in academia.Thank you for supporting our channel, Please share this video on your social media to spread awareness. We appreciate the support! Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast SAFIA NOBLE: 👉 https://www.safiaunoble.com SAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://www.samirabdul.com MIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com SEPEHR VAKIL: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehr... -------------------------------- Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike Knight Producer: Raphael Nash

Welcome to Season 2! Samir, Sepehr & Mike kick the season off with the super talented comedian & writer, Zaid Fouzi! The group discusses all things Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia and the controversy surrounding the famous American comedians in the lineup, as well as the hypocritical pushback from other voices in the industry.Thank you for supporting our channel, Please share this video on your social media to spread awareness. We appreciate the support! Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcastZAID FOUZI: 👉 https://linktr.ee/zaidfouziSAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://www.samirabdul.comMIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/SEPEHR VAKIL: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehr...--------------------------------Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike KnightProducer: Raphael Nash

Samir, Sepehr & Mike react to the assassination of right-wing influencer, Charlie Kirk, and the socio-political implications of his death.Thank you for supporting our channel, Please share this video on your social media to spread awareness. We appreciate the support!Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcastSAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://www.samirabdul.comMIKE KNIGHT: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/SEPEHR VAKIL: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/--------------------------------Hosts: Samir Abdul, Sepehr Vakil, Mike KnightProducer: Raphael Nash

Welcome Back! We're adding to our co-host roster – let's welcome, rising star, Samir Abdul to the PCWB squad!Samir Abdul, originally from Darfur, Sudan, is an international comedian shaking up Chicago’s comedy scene. A survivor of the Darfur genocide, Samir blends personal stories of resilience with sharp, witty observations on American life.In this episode, Sepehr, Mike, and Samir discuss life as an immigrant in comedy, how he almost accidentally became a child soldier, and an infamous Roast Battle between Mike and Samir.Listen to A Professor and a Comedian Walk into a Bar wherever you get your podcasts and watch new episodes on YouTube.Follow us on Instagram: pcwbchicagoSAMIR ABDUL: 👉 https://samirabdul.comMIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/--------------------------------Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr VakilProducer: Raphael Nash

Recorded in front of a live audience at Northwestern University, Sepehr and Mike welcome renowned stand-up, actress and podcaster, Zainab Johnson, and esteemed professor of African American Studies, kihana maraya ross. The group discusses Trump's continued attacks on universities like Northwestern, balancing resistance and joy, and maintaining self-awareness in comedy.Originally recorded on April 3rd, 2025.Listen to A Professor and a Comedian Walk into a Bar wherever you get your podcasts and watch new episodes on YouTube.Follow us on Instagram: pcwbchicagoZAINAB JOHNSON: 👉 https://www.zainabjohnson.com kihana maraya ross: 👉 https://blackstudies.northwestern.edu/people/faculty/kihana-miraya-ross.html MIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/ -------------------------------- Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr Vakil Producer: Raphael Nash Editor: Sandra Salib

Sepehr & Mike have an impromptu convo to catch up on the recent grant terminations by the Trump administration, and how they are affecting their work, Northwestern, and academia at-large.Listen to A Professor and a Comedian Walk into a Bar wherever you get your podcasts and watch new episodes on YouTube.Follow us on Instagram: pcwbchicagoMIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/--------------------------Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr VakilGuest: Elizabeth TiptonProducer: Raphael Nash

This week on PCWB, we’re diving into the state of journalism today and if artificial intelligence has a place, segregation versus self-selection, and everyone's current fave hot topic, the cost of eggs, with Senior Lecturer & Director of Audio Journalism Programming at Northwestern, Natalie Y. Moore.Listen to A Professor and a Comedian Walk into a Bar wherever you get your podcasts and watch new episodes on YouTube.Follow us on Instagram: pcwbchicagoNATALIE Y. MOORE: 👉 http://www.natalieymoore.comMIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/--------------------------Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr VakilGuest: Elizabeth TiptonProducer: Raphael Nash

It's Women's History month, and Sepehr & Mike talk with statistician Elizabeth Tipton on why finding your people and building community is a necessity when working in STEM as a woman. Plus, they explore America's volatile engineering pool in the new Trump administration, and exploring the idea of Intelligent vs Smart in academic spaces.Listen to A Professor and a Comedian Walk into a Bar wherever you get your podcasts and watch new episodes on YouTube.Follow us on Instagram: pcwbchicagoELIZABETH TIPTON: 👉 https://www.bethtipton.com MIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/--------------------------Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr VakilGuest: Elizabeth TiptonProducer: Raphael Nash

In Episode 7: Is America still appealing to immigrants? Is Trump undoing history? What does black conservatism look like these days? Mike and Sepehr chat with Professor Saida Grundy and comedian Clark Jones about racism and the black perspective under the current administration. Tune in! Thank you for supporting our channel, Please share this video on your social media to spread awareness. We appreciate the support! Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast SAIDA GRUNDY: 👉 https://www.bu.edu/afam/profile/saida-grundy/ CLARK JONES: 👉https://www.theeclarkjones.com MIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/ -------------------------------- Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr Vakil Producer: Raphael Nash Editor: Sandra Salib

In our 6th episode Mike and Sepehr chat with Professor Julissa Muniz and comedians Kathryn Gongaware and Kyrie Da Comic about prison, policies and politics. Tune in! This episode was recorded before the 2024 election Thank you for supporting our channel, Please share this video on your social media to spread awareness. We appreciate the support! Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast JULISSA MUNIZ: 👉 https://www.julissamuniz.com KATHRYN GONGAWARE 👉 https://www.instagram.com/kathryngong/ KYRIE DA COMIC: 👉 https://www.instagram.com/kyriedacomic/ MIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/ --------------------------------Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr Vakil Producer: Raphael Nash Editor: Sandra Salib

In Episode 5: How is AI effecting education? What are Trump’s contributions to the border crisis? How different is Institutionalism vs Gentrification? In our 5th episode Mike and Sepehr chat with Professor Alex Hannah and comedian David Donnick about election predictions and what’s best for America. Tune in! Thank you for supporting our channel, Please share this video on your social media to spread awareness. We appreciate the support! Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast ALEX HANNA: 👉 https://alex-hanna.comDAVID DONNICK: 👉 https://www.instagram.com/daviddonnick MIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 (https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/) -------------------------------- Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr Vakil Producer: Raphael Nash Editor: Sandra Salib

In Episode 4: What were people really hoping to see from each candidate? How were hispanic men feeling before, during and after the election? In our 4th episode Mike and Sepehr chat with Professor Juan Carrillo and comedian Anthony Fuentes to get their heartfelt thoughts on the election. Tune in! Thank you for supporting our channel, Please share this video on your social media to spread awareness. We appreciate the support! Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast DR. JUAN CARRILLO: 👉 https://search.asu.edu/profile/20237 ANTHONY FUENTES: 👉 https://www.instagram.com/anthonyfuentescomedy MIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 (https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/) -------------------------------- Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr Vakil Producer: Raphael Nash Editor: Sandra Salib

In Episode 3: How does a comedian host a packed comedy show the day after last week’s election? How does a college professor address his students? In our 3rd episode Mike and Sepehr swap their own “day after” stories. Tune in! Thank you for supporting our channel, Please share this video on your social media to spread awareness. We appreciate the support! Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast MIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ LINK TO SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 (https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/) -------------------------------- Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr Vakil Producer: Raphael Nash Editor: Sandra Salib

In this inaugural episode of PCWB, we sit down with 2 legendary Chicagoans - Professor David Stovall from the University of Illinois Chicago, and comedian Calvin Evans. We have a highly engaged discussion on the politics of DEI and critical race theory in the city of Chicago during Mayor Brandon Johnson's first term, and ahead of the DNC. Tune in!Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcastMIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/LINK TO SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 (https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/)LINK TO DAVID's FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 https://blst.uic.edu/profiles/stovall-david/LINK TO CALVIN's WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.calvinevanscomedy.com/----------------------------Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr VakilProducer: Raphael NashEditor: Sandra Salib

In Episode 2: We sit down with Professor Katherine Cho from Loyola University, an expert on student activism in higher education. We are also joined by Chicago actor, comedian, and movement artist Sonal Aggarwal. In our 2nd episode we talk with our guests about the recent student protests sweeping the country, and what we can expect in the approaching academic year. Tap the link in bio to listen now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you pod. #PCWBpodcast DR. CHO'S PROFILE: 👉 https://www.luc.edu/education/directory/profiles/chokatherines.shtml SONAL's PROFILE: 👉 https://www.instagram.com/sonalmedia/?hl=en MIKE'S WEBSITE: 👉 https://www.mikeknightcomedy.com/ SEPEHR'S FACULTY PROFILE: 👉 (https://sites.northwestern.edu/sepehrvakil/) -------------------------------- Hosts: Mike Knight & Sepehr Vakil Producer: Raphael Nash Editor: Sandra Salib