Reşmall: The Kurdish Culture Podcast

In this fourth episode of Reşmall: The Kurdish Culture Podcast, hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy dive into the heart of Kurdish culture by exploring Newroz. Joined by special guest Arazu Barwari, the team explores the powerful legend of Kawa the Blacksmith and his victory over the tyrant Zahak. They discuss why Newroz is far more than just a spring equinox celebration—it is a profound symbol of resistance, unity, and the enduring triumph of light over darkness.From the spectacular fire festivals in Akre to the deep historical significance of the holiday across the four parts of Kurdistan, this episode honors the traditions that have survived for thousands of years. Tune in to learn why the flame of Newroz continues to burn bright for Kurds everywhere.

In Kurdish culture, bread is far more than food — it is a symbol of life, God’s blessing, and deep moral bonds. Join hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy as they explore the sacred respect for naan, from ancient agricultural roots to everyday rituals: kissing fallen bread, never wasting it, and the powerful social covenant of “bread and salt.” Discover why a “bread-giving man” (nander) is the ideal of generosity, how sharing bread builds loyalty and reconciliation, and practical ways to honor this tradition when hosting. Warm, insightful, and surprisingly profound — this episode reveals why Kurds say: today’s bread is the bread that matters.

In this episode of Reşmall, the Kurdish Culture Podcast, hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy explore one of the most renowned aspects of Kurdish culture: hospitality. The discussion dives into why hospitality is so central to Kurdish life—rooted in survival in harsh environments, religious beliefs, and proverbs like “Guests are God’s guests.” Listeners learn the Kurdish customs for welcoming guests: offering water on a fine tray, serving scalding hot looseleaf tea in istikan/piyala glasses (never tea bags!), salty and sweet treats, and abundant meals with multiple dishes. The episode covers practical etiquette for guests and hosts, gender roles in serving, giving and returning gifts, and how hospitality often takes priority even over daily plans.

In this inaugural episode of Reşmall, the Kurdish Culture Podcast, hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy explore the foundational value of respect in Kurdish society. Discover how respect transforms daily interactions: a powerful Peshmerga officer humbly defers to an elderly grandmother, younger people stand for elders, offer seats, serve first, and use honorific titles like "Mam," "Khal," "Kak," or "Mam Haji." The hosts share personal stories, contrasting Kurdish respect with Western equality-focused respect, and discuss body language nuances (like crossed arms signaling respect, limited eye contact showing deference). The conversation covers hierarchy by age, earned vs. ancestral respect, hospitality's deep ties to respect, challenges from urbanization and social media, and practical tips for non-Kurds: greet verbally and warmly, dress formally, respond promptly to calls, accept invitations graciously, and use appropriate titles. Closing with a poignant Kurdish proverb on how respect reveals character, this episode invites listeners into the heart of the Kurdish worldview.