Yalla! Let's Talk.
by Yalla! Let's Talk.
Welcome to Yalla! Let’s Talk., where self-growth meets culture. Hosted by Hani Dajani, this podcast features conversations with inspiring creatives, thought-leaders, and disruptors. The goal? To help you grow, reflect, and feel a little more connected.
Episodes
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How to Stop Caring What People Think of You | Etaf
Etaf left law for music, but choosing a different career was only part of learning to trust themselves. We talk about the pressure of “what will people say?”, and figuring out what you want when everyone else has an opinion. The Kuwaiti artist joins Hani to talk about pursuing what you want when...
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Why Do Men Call Women Crazy? And Why Art Matters for Palestine? l Dana Salah
Dana Salah, the Palestinian-Jordanian singer-songwriter, is back on Yalla! She joins Hani for a conversation about preserving Palestinian identity through music, why women are so often called “crazy,” and the power of art as a form of protest. They also get into self-doubt, the women who shaped...
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Why Most Arab Artists Give Up Too Soon | Aziz Maraka
What does 15 years of making music teach you about not giving up? Aziz Maraka gets real about the validation trap, unlearning old patterns, what happens when the creativity disappears, and the advice he wishes more artists heard. We also get into how he actually writes his songs ...and the life...
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How to Build Quiet Confidence l Kawtar
We spend so much time trying to be enough for everyone else. Maybe quiet confidence starts when you stop.Yalla! Let's Talk, in partnership with XP Air (XP Futures, MDL Beast) , sits down with Moroccan singer Kawtar for a conversation on self-worth, growth, and navigating the music industry…
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Relationship Dilemmas That Make You Think | Hot Takes, Reddit & Culture
We're back with more AITA stories. This time with dating advice for situations you probably haven't heard before. 00:00 Intro 03:00 Who Got Outed? Dating Double Standards 14:00 Can You Fall in Love on a Spectrum? 16:00 Limerence Is Actually Wild 23:00 Are Attachment Styles Overrated? 29:00 Why…
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Habibi Squad: Am I the A$$ Hole? Reddit Stories & Chaos
Habibi, let's talk. 00:00 Intro 05:00 Who's Most Likely To? 10:38 The Tarboosh Game30:00 Wrong Answers Only 33:20 Reddit's Wildest AITA Stories
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How to Become Who You're Meant To Be l Ghaliaa Chaker
The people who judge you often know the least about you. Ghaliaa opens up about being misunderstood, finding her voice, and choosing authenticity over approval.
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The Things We Feel But Never Say: Lessons From Music, Love & Growing Up | Anthony Adonis
Why do friendships drift apart? And why do some people stay with us long after they’re gone? In this episode of Yalla! Let’s Talk, I sat down with Anthony Adonis from Adonis to talk about love, music, friendship, ambition, and the things we feel but never say. @anthonyfromadonis @adonisband
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The Death of Arabic Music Criticism l Danny Hajjar
Does Arabic music need more honest criticism? Danny Hajjar thinks so. The former Editor-in-Chief of Rolling Stone MENA sits down with Hani Dajani to talk about what the music scene won't say out loud. Danny has covered Saint Levant, Elyanna, and Tul8te, and interviewed Nancy Ajram. We get into...
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The Communication Expert: How To Speak Like the Top 1% of CEOs l Yasir Khan
Most people think speaking like a CEO means sounding confident, but the best communicators today know the right techniques while still sounding authentic. I sat down with Yasir Khan to talk about public speaking and how to communicate like the top 1% of CEOs.
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How to DETACH from overthinking and rejection l Najwa Zebian and Will Rossy
In this episode, I am joined by bestselling author Najwa Zebian and Will Rossy to unpack one of the hardest truths in dating: if they wanted you, you’d know.If you’ve ever questioned where you stand with someone, this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been avoiding... and more importantly,...
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How to Have a MAGNETIC Aura (And Why Yours Feels Off Around Certain People) l Dr. Sara Al Madani
In this episode of Yalla! Let’s Talk, I sit down with Sara Madani and we get into why you might be feeling off, and how anxiety can sometimes disguise itself as intuition. We talk about doing the inner work, trusting yourself again, and what it actually means to have a grounded, magnetic energy....
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Why Giving Birth Is Still Dangerous ? l Isra Chaker
For International Women’s Day, we talk about something people rarely say out loud: giving birth is still dangerous. This episode explores why maternal health is still a global issue and how we can do better for women everywhere. Joining us is the CEO of Every Pregnancy, Isra Chaker. You can learn...
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Ramadan in My Questioning Era | Basel Ghazoghli
This Ramadan we talk about what it feels like to drift and slowly find your way back. Basel Gazi joins me to unpack Islamic history in a way that feels honest and real and shares how his app Archives is helping a new generation reconnect with Islam. 00:00 Intro 02:15 The Man Who Hated Islam… and...
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Life After Alrawabi: Noor Taher
Join Hani in the studio for an interview with Noor Taher! Noor unpacks what it was like playing a complex character in Netflix's Alrawabi in 2021, the hard conversations our culture tends to avoid, and advice for young girls today. She also opens up about life with epilepsy and why she decided to...
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Dubai Bling Tell All | The Real Ebraheem
In this episode, Hani sits down with Ebraheem from Dubai Bling for an honest conversation beyond the cameras. Ebraheem tells Hani what viewers don’t see on the show, the struggle of body image for men, Palestine, faith, and the art of staying unbothered. Hope you enjoy the episode! 0:00 Intro…
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Inside Palestine 36: What Really Happened in 1936? | Annemarie Jacir
In this episode, I sit down with Annemarie Jacir, director of the film Palestine 36, to uncover the erased history of Palestine in 1936 and the year that shaped everything happening today. We talk about why she made a film about the 1936 revolt, the shocking truths she discovered in archives, how...
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Miss Palestine Made History l What Nadeen Ayoub Wants You To Know
Though Palestine has existed for thousands of years, decades of occupation have made it nearly impossible to take part in global events like Miss Universe. This year, Nadeen Ayoub made history as the first-ever Miss Palestine to compete. But this isn’t just about pageants or crowns. It’s about…
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How To Find The Right Person In Love (...and NOT Settle) | Najwa Zebian
Everyone talks about love, but no one teaches you how to choose the right person. In this episode, poet, author, and relationship coach Najwa Zebian shares how to know if you’ve found the right partner... AND how to stop settling for the wrong ones. 00:00 Intro 01:42: Is your relationship boring…
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"It's Bisan From Gaza. I'm Still Alive" l Bisan Odeh
For the very first time, Bisan sits down for a podcast to share what is really happening on the ground in Gaza. We talk about Israel's plan to "take over" Gaza, the journalists that have been killed, and the resilience of a civilization that existed in the world for more than 6000 years in Gaza....
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Why Arabic Music Is Going Global | Danny Hajjar
This episode is about music — but also about something deeper: identity, belonging, and being seen. I sat down with Danny Hajjar, a brilliant music journalist and the Editor-in-Chief of Rolling Stone MENA, who’s been amplifying the voices of Arab artists across the Middle East, North Africa, and...
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Iran, Israel, and Trump: What The Media Is Not Telling You | Samira Mohyeddin
I sat down with journalist Samira Mohyeddin to talk about how Western media straight-up lies — not just about Iran, but about the entire Middle East, from Palestine to Iraq. We get into the "playbook": how narratives are crafted, who benefits, and why “freedom” is only allowed when it fits their...
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EMEL on Freedom, Feminism, and Healing Through Her Music
What does it mean to find your voice — and use it to create change?In today’s episode of Yalla! Let’s Talk., I sit down with Tunisian artist EMEL, a singer, songwriter, and storyteller whose music has inspired people across the world. From her breakout anthem “Kelmti Horra” — once banned, now a...
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How To Get Over Someone You Can't Get Over l Najwa Zebian
Bestselling author Najwa Zebian joins me to share her wisdom on healing and how to get over someone you STILL can't get over.In this episode, we tackle some of the most common yet confusing questions that come up when you’re trying to move on from someone — or even just figure out where you…
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Ramadan Survival Guide l Habibi Squad x Asala Dabke
Thank you to Habibi Squad and Asala Dabke for joining us today in our Ramadan special. Whether you are Muslim or not, this episode can give you a better understanding of what Ramadan means to Muslims . The episode also goes deep into the best practices of how to make the best use of your time in...
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How to Build, Buy, or Sell Your Startup l Ghassan Halazon
In this episode, Ghassan, Halazon one of Canada's top CEOs, shares his journey of building a successful startup, from tough lessons learned to navigating the world of valuations and exits. Get expert advice on attracting investors, raising capital, and negotiating in the fast-paced world of...
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Saint Levant and Nemahsis l Yalla! Let's Talk.
Nemahsis talks to Saint Levant on Yalla! Let's Talk. Episode Breakdown (00:00) Intro (9:33) The beginning of their musical journeys & and what inspires these artists (16:43) Let's talk about the fans (29:21) Let's talk about the dream (36:14) Arab men and therapy (41:30) Saint Levant, Grow Home,...
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From NAS to Drake, Arab Culture in Music & The rise of Arabic Hip Hop l NARCY
In this episode, we sit down with the multi-talented artist, NARCY, for an in-depth conversation about the music industry today. He shares his insights on the evolution of Arabic Hip Hop, the impact of cultural decolonization in music, and drops some solid advice for up-and-coming artists. NARCY…
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Iraqis are Aliens?!? l Hassan Phills x NARCY [Bonus Episode]
It's time to get to know two creatives changing the narrative. Meet Hassan Phills and NARCY – two hilarious friends shaking things up in their own way: one with comedy and the other with music. In this special episode, filmed at the East Tea Can restaurant in Toronto, they sit down over dinner…
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The Art of Winning a Crowd | Hassan Phills
In this special series at East Tea Can, comedian Hassan Phills talks about how stand-up comedy helped him grow and connect with people. He also explains how he made a space for the Muslim community by listening to fans who wanted to see his shows but didn’t feel comfortable at bars. Hassan shares...
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Habibi Squad: Real Talk on Relationships & Personal Growth
Thank you to habibi squad for the laughs and sharing with us some questions everyone is dying to know. They are real ones, make sure you subscribe to them! @HabibiSquadOfficial Yalla! Let's Talk. (0:00) Intro (1:44) One word Interview with Habibi Squad (17:51) Yalla! Let's Talk with Habibi Squad...
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Dave Merheje on Marrying a Second Wife, Converting to Islam, and a Second Trump Presidency
Join me and the hilarious Dave Merheje in this episode of Yalla! Let's Talk, where we dive into how the show 'Ramy' is still breaking stereotypes, what a second Trump presidency could mean for Arabs and Muslims, and the personal journey that led Dave to convert. (0:00 Intro (2:25) Dave's Journey…
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5 Secrets of Ultra-Successful Content Creators l Omar Hmaidat
In this episode, I talk with one of the Middle East's most inspiring entrepreneurs and talent managers -- Omar Hmaidat. Omar manages the largest creators in MENA and has created one of the the fastest growing talent agency in the world. Most recently, Omar was named as Forbe's Middle East's Top…
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Life Lessons from Visiting Gaza l Deya Elayyan
In this episode, I talk with one of the most influential online voices in Jordan, Deya Elayyan. Deya is not your typical influencer - he studied engineering in the US before moving to Jordan, as well as he uses his platform to shed light on issues relevant to those who live in the region. Today…
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Inside The Arabic Music Industry l Nasir AlBashir
Did you know Arabic Music is the fastest growing music industry in the world? Joining us today is music producer (and legend, might I add) in Amman, Jordan – Nasir AlBashir. Nasir breaks down what the music industry looks like right now in the MENA region and diaspora, the challenges (and...
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Joanna Arida reveals the TRUTH about fame and why representation matters
A conversation with Jordanian actress, model, and filmmaker Joanna Arida about representation, fame after the Netflix show "Al-Rawabi School for Girls", and mental health. What We Discuss: (0:00) Intro (01:35) How do you find motivation to try different things? (05:15) Why is representation so...
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From Fairuz to Skrillex: How Nai Barghouti Makes Her Mark
Today, I sit down with the insanely talented Nai Barghouti – a Palestinian singer, composer, and flutist who's been compared to legends like Fairouz and Umm Kulthoum. She's not just about music; she’s about making a statement. In this episode, we dive into her journey, her passion for blending...
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Lina Makoul: My Journey as an Independent Artist Living Under Occupation
In this episode, I sit down with Palestinian artist Lina Makoul to talk about life in occupied Palestine, the story behind her powerful song "On Mute," and what it means to be a '48 Palestinian.' Plus, an exclusive live performance and her bold vision for using music to elevate the Palestinian...
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Sex in the Arab World l Shereen El Feki
"If you really want to know people, you start by looking inside their bedroom". Today, I talk to journalist and author, Shereen El Feki on what goes behind closed doors in the Arab world. We are diving into sensitive topics, such as the sexual evolution in the region, sex in Islam, and the...
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Let's Talk Music with SHKOON [BONUS]
Get ready to vibe with Shkoon! With the duo themselves, we’re breaking down their coolest tracks, what inspired them, and the meaning behind the music. Tune in for a deep dive into the sounds and stories that make Shkoon so special. Special shoutout to Marsm.ca for their support with this episode.
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SHKOON: How a Syrian Refugee and a German Became One of The World's Leading Electronic Duos
In this episode, host Hani Dajani talks to music duo, SHKOON, about their journey and how their music has a strong cultural impact, addressing themes of identity, displacement, and hope. We also talk about SHKOON's music incorporates elements of Arabic folk songs, Sufi poetry, and classical…
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Nataly Aukar talks about life in Lebanon, comedy and growing up Lebanese
Hani Dajani sits down with Lebanese-American Comedian Nataly Aukar. Nataly talks about her upbringing in Lebanon, what it was like moving to New York, the red flags to look for when you make new friends, talks about her career so far and opens up on what rebuilding Lebanon means to her. Nataly...
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I Asked 1,000+ Older People for Life Advice and Learned… | Sprouht
In this special segment, we talk to former banker turned content creator, William Rossy (also known as Sprouht). Will is a Lebanese-Canadian that began his journey with his self-improvement brand in a way to explore a more meaningful life. Through the brand he built, he has been able to provide...
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What is it Like to Be a Teen Content Creator? l Ozikoy
In this special segment, we dive deep into the lives of Arab content creators in the west. Today, we are joined by 19 year old Khalil Yatim, also known as "Ozikoy" on social media. Khalil tells us what it's like to create content as a teenager, his goals, and why his relationship with his…
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Student Encampments l Ahmed Shihab-Eldin
Student encampments...Dr. Phil interviewing Netanyahu..and Eurovision. A lot has happened in the past couple of months. But how do these events change things? And what is the impact on us and the millions of people in Gaza? Helping us answer these questions today is Emmy-Nominated journalist,...
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I Will Not Be Silenced l Alana Hadid
In this episode, we are joined by fashion icon, model, and creative director, Alana Hadid. Alana is a daughter of a Nakba survivor, and she shares with us her family's story and her perspectives on how your voice can free Palestine. In this episode, we talk about: (0:00) Intro (02:00) why we need...
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Let's talk about addiction, even "love addition" l Dr. Marc Dagher
In this episode, I interview Dr. Marc Dagher, an addiction Doctor and expert in treating all kinds of substance addictions. Whether you choose to do drugs or feel like you're addicted to a person, this episode will give you insights on the world of addiction, human behaviour, as well as…
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Why Celebrities Need to Speak Up about Gaza l Netflix Star Dom Gabriel
The controversial video of Hayley Bayley's "let them eat cake", followed by her apology, raised the questions: "should celebrities be speaking up on Gaza?" And if not: "should we just block them for their silence?" (And also, "are we in District 12, living real life hunger games right…
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Why this Doctor went to Gaza l Dr. Yipeng Ge
Today's guest is Dr. Yipeng Ge. A Canadian resident Doctor who was suspended from the University of Ottawa for his social media posts (might I add, he was suspended without due process or fair investigation). When the University of Ottawa decided to re-instate him, he chose to decline their…
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What Life is Like Going From Gaza to Diaspora? l Farah Qaddan
What is it like to be a Palestinian from Gaza? Was it like to be a Palestinian diaspora, which means you have left your homeland for another country. For us to be better allies, we need to hear people's stories. In this episode, we are joined by Farah Qaddan. Farah is an avid storyteller…
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About this show
Welcome to Yalla! Let’s Talk., where self-growth meets culture. Hosted by Hani Dajani, this podcast features conversations with inspiring creatives, thought-leaders, and disruptors. The goal? To help you grow, reflect, and feel a little more connected.
Hosted by
Yalla! Let's Talk.