Well Rooted

PODCAST · society

Well Rooted

Well Rooted is a platform dedicated to uplifting and celebrating MENA entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders. Each episode dives into the journeys of inspiring individuals who are breaking barriers, building legacies, and making an impact in their fields. From artists and innovators to business visionaries, our guests share their stories, insights, and strategies for success. Whether you're seeking motivation, practical advice, or a deeper connection to the MENA community, Well Rooted Podcast is here to fuel your dreams and help you grow.

  1. 34

    Acne, Sobriety, and Building a Skincare Empire with Marya Khalil-Otto of VI Peel

    Marya Khalil-Otto didn't just inherit a company - she inherited a mission. As CEO of VI Peel, the first painless chemical peel formulated for all skin tones, Marya carries forward the legacy of her father, Dr. Khalil, who originally created the peel to treat her own acne. In this episode of Well Rooted, Marya gets real about what it took to step into leadership after losing her father, relocate to LA, and go back to school to get her aesthetician license - not because she had to, but because she wanted to truly understand the brand and the people it serves. We get into the actual science behind acne and why it's never just a skincare issue, how sobriety completely shifted her relationship with herself and her work, and what inclusivity in the aesthetics industry actually looks like in practice. Plus, what it's like to run a thriving company while showing up as a mother and a whole person.   To follow Marya on Instagram, click HERE To follow VI Peel on Instagram, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE To learn more about Jarrar & Associates and schedule a free consultation, click HERE

  2. 33

    ROOTED RECAP | Nochella, Coachella, and the SWANA Takeover

    I'm back from Coachella where I watched SWANA artists, representing Palestine to Algeria and Egypt to Pakistan unleash their incomparable energy on the festival stage. I'm sharing my thoughts on DJ Habibeats and Zainab's Coachella premiere, DJ Snake's legendary back2back trap takeover, and what I really think about Sabrina Carpenter's response following the now infamous "Zaghrootagate." Plus, I'm unpacking the brilliant execution of the community led Nochella event that saw brands like For Your Viewing Pleasure and Diaspora People's Place raise over $31,000 for Palestine and Lebanon while uniting LA's finest to celebrate community, resilience, and art.  Listen, comment, or send us a DM (see below for details), and we'll feature you on the next Rooted Recap! Follow Well Rooted on Instagram HERE Listen to our episdoe featuring Lara Salmon of FYVP HERE Listen to our episode featuring Nael Atweh of Grassfed Music HERE

  3. 32

    Building Power with Layla Shaikley | Identity, Entrepreneurship & Emotional Intelligence

    What does it take to build power when the system wasn't built for you? This week, I sit down with Iraqi-American entrepreneur, startup founder, and one of the most trusted voices in entrepreneurship and career strategy on social media, Layla Shaikley. Layla's story spans architecture school, NASA, MIT, building a multi-million dollar tech startup, and even a viral Muslim hipster music video. She didn't wait to be chosen. She built her own table. In this episode: ·        Growing up Muslim and Arab in post-9/11 America with zero representation ·        Why your identity is your greatest strategic asset ·        The "super founder" concept and what your first business actually teaches you ·        Why emotional intelligence is the most underrated form of generational wealth ·        How to find your voice as a creator (even when it feels embarrassing) ·        Why representation is just the first step, and ownership is what gives us real power This one is for the founders, the creators, the first-gen dreamers, and every parent thinking about the environment they're building for their kids.   To follow Layla on Instagram, click HERE To learn about Layla, click HERE To follow Layla on Substack, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE To learn more about Jarrar & Associates and schedule your free consultation, click HERE

  4. 31

    ROOTED RECAP | The Duality of Arab-American Identity, Judgment, and Community

    Apparenlty, we listen and we do judge! Wow, guys-our last episode featuring the talented and relatable Farah of Lesh La2 really resonated with so many of you and inspired me to share a bit of my own experience and perspective growing up as a first-gen Arab-American. I also reflect on the role judgment and scrutiny plays in our society (you know aside from uplifting the patriarchy), and I offer up some practical ways I've cultivated the community I seeked and how I found confidence in identity. Reclaiming ownership of the MENA/SWANA narrative starts with us sharing our stories, so enjoy a snippet of mine.   Follow Well Rooted on Instagram Here  

  5. 30

    "Why Not?" Rewriting the Arab Narrative with Farah Fezz of Lesh La2

    In this episode of Well Rooted, Farah, founder of Lesh La2, shares how she built a design-led creative brand rooted in Arab nostalgia, culture, and storytelling. What started as teaching Arabic on TikTok quickly evolved into Lesh La2-a platform blending design, typography, and Arab pop culture to reshape modern Arab identity and narrative ownership. Farah breaks down how she transformed digital content into a purpose-driven brand, and how nostalgia can be used as a creative tool to inspire the future. We also explore entrepreneurship, pivoting careers, and the importance of Arab women reclaiming their stories through design, media, and culture. This episode is a deep dive into Arab creative entrepreneurship, cultural storytelling, and the rise of design-driven brands in the digital age.   To follow Lesh La2 on Instagram, click HERE To follow Farah on Instagram, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE

  6. 29

    Feeding Gaza: Hani Almadhoun on the Gaza Soup Kitchen, Humanitarian Aid with UNRWA, and Palestine

    In this episode of Well Rooted, Hani Almadhoun, founder of the Gaza Soup Kitchen and Head of Philanthropy at UNRWA USA, shares the story behind a grassroots humanitarian effort feeding thousands in Gaza. Hani reflects on the loss of his martyred brothers and the legacy they left behind through a community-led operation built by the people of Gaza to sustain the people of Gaza. We also discuss the emotional toll of humanitarian aid work, how to identify trustworthy organizations when donating, and why Ramadan is a powerful time to make a zakat-eligible donation to support UNRWA and families in Gaza.   To follow Gaza Soup Kitchen on Instagram, click HERE To make a donation to UNRWA USA, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE To learn more about Jarrar & Associates and schedule a free consultation, click HERE

  7. 28

    Reclaiming Palestinian cuisine and identity with the Knafeh Queens | ICYMI

    This week we are revisiting last year's Eid episode featuring the mother-daughter duo behind Knafeh Queens, Fatmah and Reyhanna. I don't think I ever laughed as hard during a taping as when we recorded this fun, truly wholesome, and valuable episode. Fatmah is a testament to Palestinian resilience and community building, and through her journey with Knafeh Queens, has reclaimed Palestinian cuisine and built a brand that resonates across cultures. We'll be back next week with a new solo episode!    

  8. 27

    Manifestation in Islam, Realizing your true potential, and living intentionally with Nadia Khaled | ICYMI

    Ramadan Mubarak to all those celebrating! We are kicking off this month of faith, intention, and realignment with a rerelease of our episode featuring manifestation coach, content creator, and host of the Limitless with Nadia podcast, Nadia Khaled. This is a great episode to dive into as we dicuss making Du'a vs manifestation, setting and executing on goals, and what it really means to live intentionally and with purpose.  Enjoy the episode and I'll be back next Wednesday with a brand new solo episode!  

  9. 26

    ROOTED RECAP| The Cultural Impact of the Bad Bunny Bowl, Rolla Selbak's Creative Defiance, and Leaving Comfort Behind

    In this solo episode, we reflect on the cultural impact of the Bad Bunny Super Bowl halftime show-what it revealed about language, identity, and who gets to take up space on global stages. We also recall our recent conversation with filmmaker, Rolla Selbak and our discussion on narrative ownership, creative risk, and telling stories that push boundaries. At its core, this episode is about why growth, personally and culturally, requires us to try new things and step outside our comfort zones. Because real change, in art and in life, usually starts where comfort ends.   Follow Well Rooted on Instagram HERE

  10. 25

    Rolla Selbak on Palestinian Cinema, Industry Censorship, and Shooting The Visitor with Watermelon Pictures

    In this episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Palestinian filmmaker Rolla Selbak on the brink of herrr next chapter - preparing to shoot her upcoming film The Visitor in collaboration with Watermelon Pictures. Rolla reflects on her journey through the film and entertainment industry, from navigating and resisting deeply ingrained stereotypes of Arabs and Muslims to the professional cost of standing firmly with Palestine, including being let go by CAA for refusing to stay silent. We trace her earliest memories of Arab cinema and art, the images and stories that shaped her creative consciousness, and how those roots continue to guide her work today. This conversation is about redemption through truth - what it means to reclaim one's voice after erasure, to create without apology, and to stand fully in alignment with who you are, even when the industry pushes back. We go deep into the systemic censorship of Palestinian voices, the limits placed on "acceptable" narratives, and the responsibility of artists to humanitarian and political causes in moments of global reckoning. A powerful, honest dialogue on narrative ownership, creative courage, and what it means to tell our stories on our own terms - no permission required.   To follow Rolla on Instagram, click HERE To learn more about the Safina Film Project, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE To learn more about how Jarrar & Associates can help you grow your business, click HERE

  11. 24

    ROOTED RECAP| Sinners, Arab Influencers, and Why Representation is no Longer Enough

    In the first solo episode of the season, Well Rooted begins with a reckoning. Host Haneen Jarrar introduces this year's guiding theme, narrative sovereignty, and unpacks the critical difference between being represented and truly owning your story. From Arab influencers who profit while upholding the very systems that oppress our communities, to Watermelon Pictures, the Palestinian production house that powerfully models what it looks like to build alternative systems that actually serve us, this episode interrogates who gets visibility, who gets power, and who gets left behind. The conversation also turns to Hollywood, specifically Ryan Coogler, and what happens when legacy institutions come face to face with narrative ownership they don't control. This episode sets the foundation for the season ahead and leads directly into next week's first interview of the year with filmmaker Rolla Selbak, where narrative sovereignty moves from theory into lived practice.   Follow us on Instagram HERE   This isn't about optics-it's about power, and we're coming for it.

  12. 23

    Lauren Harb of Harem Modern on Moroccan Rugs, Heritage, and Authentic Brand-Building - ICYMI

    In this episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Lauren Harb, founder of Harem Modern, to explore the intersection of heritage, craftsmanship, and modern entrepreneurship. Lauren shares how her Palestinian-American identity and her family's deep roots in the textile world inspired her to create a brand centered on luxurious, handcrafted Moroccan rugs made by local artisans. She opens up about the realities of building a values-driven business over the past year—the challenges, the growth, and the moments that reaffirmed her vision. This conversation is a reflection on honoring tradition while creating something distinctly contemporary, and what it truly means to build a brand that's rooted in culture.   To shop Harem Modern click HERE To follow Harem Modern on Instagram click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram click HERE To learn more about Jarrar & Associates and schedule your free consultation click HERE

  13. 22

    From Content Creator to Global Comedian: Nasser Al-Rayess on Arab Culture, Red Flags, and the Perfect Shawarma

    In this week's podcast episode, we sit down with Syrian-American comedian and viral content creator Nasser Al-Rayess—widely known as the "Shawarma King." Nasser opens up about his incredible rise from making comedy sketches online to headlining a global stand-up comedy tour. He shares practical advice for aspiring comedians, creators, and anyone chasing a creative career, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, cultural identity, and staying true to your values. We also dive into relationship red flags, the real secret behind perfect shawarma, and the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped his comedy journey. Packed with laughs, storytelling, and actionable insight, this episode is a must-listen for fans of stand-up comedy, Middle Eastern creators, and anyone looking for creative inspiration.   To learn more about Nasser's upcoming tour dates, click HERE To follow Nasser on Instagram, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE To learn more about how Jarrar & Associates CPAs can help you follow your dreams, click HERE

  14. 21

    Beyond the Lens: Shahed Khaddash on Film, Identity, and Resistance

    In this re-released episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Shahed Khaddash — a Palestinian-American director and producer whose work is redefining how stories from our communities are told. With an eye for truth and authenticity, Shahed has collaborated with powerhouse brands like OLAY, Lexus, and Elle Magazine, crafting visual stories that bridge cultures and challenge stereotypes. We explore her groundbreaking approach to storytelling — from her highly anticipated Palestinian docuseries to an upcoming HBO project that's turning heads in the industry. Shahed opens up about her creative journey, her mission to amplify Palestinian voices, and how film can be used as a radical act of visibility and empowerment.  This episode is a powerful reminder that storytelling isn't just art — it's resistance, representation, and revolution. Don't miss it.   Follow Shahed Khaddash on Instagram HERE Follow Well Rooted on Instagram HERE To learn more about Jarrar & Associates and schedule your free consultation, click HERE  

  15. 20

    Nael Atweh on Building Grass Fed Music: Artist Development, R&B Innovation, and Redefining the Music Industry"

    In this re-release episode of Well Rooted, host Haneen Jarrar sits down with Nael Atweh, founder and president of Grass Fed Music, to dive into the world of music industry innovation and artist development. Known for discovering and nurturing top-tier talent, Nael represents breakout R&B star Sabrina Claudio and DJ Habibeats, a cultural icon shaping today's global music scene. Nael opens up about his journey in talent management, his passion for developing authentic artists, and the inspiration behind launching Grass Fed Music with his wife and partner Alyce Hayek, who serves as the company's vice president. Together, they've built a powerhouse label redefining what it means to build a sustainable, independent music career. Tune in to learn how Nael identifies raw talent, creates viral hits, and helps artists thrive in an ever-evolving music landscape — and discover what it really takes to succeed in the modern music business.   Learn more about Grass Fed Music HERE   Watch the full episode on YouTube HERE   Learn more about Jarrar & Associates and book your free consultation HERE

  16. 19

    Unapologetically Alana Hadid-Power, Protest, and Burning it all Down

    In this powerful and unfiltered episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Alana Hadid — a sustainable fashion icon, model, creative director of Watermelon Pictures, soon-to-be two-time author, activist, and proud member of the prestigious and deeply respected Palestinian Hadid family. Alana opens up about reclaiming narratives, the inevitable evolution we've all experienced over the past two years, the personal and professional cost of speaking her undeniable truth, and what it means to stay rooted in justice when the world demands silence. We talk about the urgency of decolonizing our minds, why we're done softening our voices to make others comfortable, and the fundamental failures of a school system that prioritizes the suffering of some over global understanding and awareness. This episode is a love letter to those who refuse to look away — a fierce reminder that there is no liberation without truth. And we're no longer qualifying our statements in the face of fascism.

  17. 18

    From Paris to Palestine, resistance in creation, fashion as revolution, and the best type of revenge with Sylwia Nazzal of Nazzal Studios

    In this powerful episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Sylwia Nazzal — Palestinian fashion designer, founder of Nazzal Studio, and winner of the Fashion Trust Arabia Debut Talent Award. Sylwia shares the deeply personal journey behind her award-winning senior thesis at Parsons, What Should Have Been Home — a fashion collection that confronts the realities of Palestinian life under occupation through archival imagery and intentional design.   But this story goes far beyond fashion.   Sylwia opens up about the very real obstacles she faced for daring to speak out about Palestine. Despite the immense pressure to stay silent, she chose to stay rooted in her truth. Her courage not only carried her through, but brought her voice — and her work — to the global stage.   This episode is a testament to resilience, creative resistance, and the power of art to challenge narratives, preserve identity, and spark dialogue.

  18. 17

    Why acne isn't your fault, the transformative power of sobriety, inclusivity in the aesthetics industry, and the life of a CEO with Marya Khalil-Otto of VI Peel

    In this powerful episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Marya Khalil-Otto, CEO of VI Peel—the first-of-its-kind, painless chemical peel designed for all skin tones. Originally created by her father, Dr. Khalil, to help treat Marya's acne, VI Peel has grown into one of the most trusted brands in the aesthetics industry. Marya opens up about stepping into leadership after her father's passing, moving cross-country to LA, and going back to school to become a licensed aesthetician—all to deepen her connection to the brand and its community. We also dive into: The science and truth behind acne and skin health The evolution of the aesthetics industry and VI Peel's inclusive mission How sobriety transformed her life and leadership What it really takes to juggle motherhood, personal wellness, and running a thriving company This is an episode about legacy, healing from the inside out, and choosing growth—personally and professionally.   To learn more about VI PEEL, click HERE To follow VI PEEL on Instagram, click HERE To follow Marya on Instagram, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE To learn more about how Jarrar and Associates CPAs and book your free consultation, click HERE

  19. 16

    Jenan Matari | Everything Grows: Storytelling, Identity & Rooted Resistance

    In the latest episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Jenan Matari — award-winning author, publicist, activist, and creator — to explore the deeply personal and political themes woven through her upcoming children's book, Everything Grows in Jiddo's Garden. Jenan shares how reclaiming and preserving her Palestinian heritage shapes her storytelling, and what it means to raise children with a strong connection to their roots — especially in a world that often challenges indigenous and diasporic identities. We discuss the sacred relationship indigenous people have with the land, and how honoring that connection becomes an act of resistance and reclamation. We also dive into Jenan's groundbreaking work beyond the page: from founding the trailblazing Muslim women's lifestyle platform MISSMUSLIM, to her innovative PR agency ZAYTOUN Publicity, which centers and uplifts native, Arab, and Muslim voices in powerful, authentic ways. This conversation is a celebration of identity, motherhood, land, and the transformative power of native storytelling in today's dichotomous world.   To Pre-Order "Everything Grows in Jiddo's Garden," click HERE. To learn more about working with ZAYTOUN Publicity, click HERE. To follow Jenan on Instagram, click HERE. To follow Jenan on TikTok, click HERE. To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE. To learn more about how Jarrar and Associates can help your business goals, click HERE.

  20. 15

    Nadia Khaled-Manifestation Coach and Content Creator | "The only thing standing between you and the life that you are dreaming of is just one leap of faith"

    In this empowering episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Nadia Khaled—a dynamic content creator, manifestation coach, and host of the Limitless with Nadia podcast. Nadia shares her transformative journey from being unexpectedly fired for posting a TikTok at work to building a thriving six-figure business and living her dream life. Discover how Nadia harnessed the power of neuroscience, quantum physics, and universal laws to manifest her desires. She delves into the science behind manifestation, the importance of embracing your divine feminine energy, and how to cultivate success in content creation. Nadia offers practical insights and actionable steps to help you align with your true self and unlock your limitless potential. Whether you're seeking to transform your career, deepen your spiritual practice, or create content that resonates, this episode provides the tools and inspiration to help you manifest the life you've always dreamed of. Tune in and learn how to turn challenges into opportunities and step into your most empowered self.   To learn more about Nadia's coaching, click HERE To follow Nadia on instagram, click HERE To follow Nadia on TikTok, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on instagram, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on TikTok, click HERE To learn more about Jarrar & Associates, click HERE  

  21. 14

    Ebraheem Al Samadi - Entrepreneur and Star of Dubai Bling | "I will always be who I am"

    In this captivating episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Ebraheem Al Samadi — the breakout star of Dubai Bling, founder of Forever Rose and Forever Rose Café, and a self-proclaimed "unfiltered" force of nature. From his Florida upbringing to building a luxury empire in the heart of the UAE, Ebraheem shares his journey with raw honesty, humor, and heart. We dive into his early start in entrepreneurship, the business mindset that shaped his success, and the unapologetic confidence that keeps him standing firm — especially when using his platform to speak up for the causes that matter most. Ebraheem opens up with never-before-heard insights into life behind the scenes of the hit Netflix show, his unfiltered takes on relationships, the price of fame, and what it really means to stay grounded while aiming sky-high. Inspiring, bold, and refreshingly real — this is one episode you don't want to miss.   Follow Ebraheem on Instagram HERE.   Follow Ebraheem on TikTok HERE.   Follow Well Rooted on Instagram HERE.   Learn more about Jarrar & Associates and schedule your free consultation HERE.

  22. 13

    Why we need laughter more than ever, Arab girl dating problems, double standards, and humanitarian work for Palestine with comedian, Abeer

    In this inspiring and hilarious episode, we sit down with breakout content creator and comedian Abeer, whose fearless voice and relatable storytelling have captivated audiences across platforms. We dive into her journey into content creation—what sparked it, how she's navigated it, and the deeper purpose behind her viral moments. Abeer opens up about her advocacy work, the power of humor in breaking down barriers, and how she challenges cultural norms around women, dating, and "socially acceptable" behavior—often with a laugh, always with intention. This conversation is a blend of insight, bold honesty, and laughter that will leave you thinking differently about identity, expectations, and creative freedom.   To follow Abeer on Instagram, click HERE   To follow Abeer on TikTok, click HERE   To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE   To learn more about Jarrar & Associates and book your FREE consultation, click HERE

  23. 12

    Why "art should be a revolutionary force," the healing powers of the Middle East, and building a brand rooted in resistance with Lara Salmon of For Your Viewing Pleasure

    In this powerful episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Lara Salmon — a world-renowned Irish-American performance artist and co-founder of the social justice apparel brand For Your Viewing Pleasure (FYVP), created alongside her partner and designer, Vanessa. Lara opens up about her life and work, from her deeply immersive artistic practice to her transformative experiences living in the Middle East. She shares how witnessing both the beauty and the heartbreak of life in conflict zones reshaped her understanding of community, solidarity, and the responsibility of artists to speak truth to power. Her work with refugees and marginalized communities becomes a central thread in the story of how FYVP was born — not just as a brand, but as a wearable message of resistance and awareness. We also delve into art as a revolutionary medium and Lara's candid reflections on the art world's response to the Palestinian liberation movement — a conversation that is raw, necessary, and urgent. This episode is a testament to the ways creativity and conscience intersect — and how art can challenge, inspire, and ignite change.   Learn more about Lara's art HERE Follow Lara on Instagram HERE Follow FYVP on Instagram HERE Shop FYVP HERE Follow Well Rooted on Instagram HERE

  24. 11

    How to serve "royal happiness," reclaiming colonized cuisine, building a brand through resistance and unity, and overcoming entrepreneurial mistakes with Fatmah and Rheyanah, founders of Knafeh Queens

    In this episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Fatmah and Rheyanah, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind Knafeh Queens, to explore the power of Palestinian cuisine as a vessel for cultural expression and resistance. From reclaiming the rich flavors of their heritage to using knafeh as a platform for spreading Palestinian identity, these two inspiring entrepreneurs are reshaping the food scene while staying true to their roots. Join us as we dive into the challenges and triumphs of starting a business, the lessons learned along the way, and the importance of using their platform to speak up for the oppressed. We also hear how Knafeh Queens has captured the attention of some of the world's biggest celebrities, including the Hadid family, Dua Lipa, and Macklemore, bringing their delicious products to the hands of those all over the world. Tune in for a conversation filled with passion, purpose, and, of course, plenty of knaffeh!   Maker sure to follow both of the accounts below to partake in our knafeh giveaway, exclusively in partnership with Knafeh Queens and Well Rooted.   Follow Knafeh Queens on Instagram HERE Follow Well Rooted on Instagram HERE

  25. 10

    How Palestine made me a storyteller, producing, directing, and creating for humanity, HBO, and beyond with filmmaker and storyteller, Shahed Khaddash

    In this episode of Well Rooted, we're thrilled to have Shahed Khaddash, a Palestinian-American director and producer whose storytelling prowess is helping reshape the media landscape. With a keen eye for authentic narratives, Shahed has worked with renowned brands like OLAY, Lexus, and Elle Magazine, using her skill to craft compelling stories that resonate across cultures. We dive deep into her vision for amplifying Palestinian voices, from her highly anticipated Palestinian docuseries to an exciting HBO project she's been instrumental in, Shahed shares her journey of using film as a powerful tool to elevate underrepresented stories, challenging the status quo, and shining a light on the richness of Palestinian culture. This episode is a celebration of creativity, vision, and the transformative power of storytelling—don't miss it!   To follow Shahed on Instagram, click HERE. To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE. To follow Welll Rooted on TikTok, click HERE. To learn more about Jarrar CPAs, click HERE.        

  26. 9

    How to grow wealth, common mistakes new entrepreneurs make, and why you shouldn't just stop at filing your taxes with CPA and founder of Jarrar & Associates, Sam Jarrar

    In this inspiring episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Samer Jarrar, the founder of Jarrar and Associates CPAs, one of Beverly Hills' premier accounting firms. Samer shares his remarkable journey from a young immigrant to a successful entrepreneur, building a firm that has supported countless business owners and entrepreneurs in growing their wealth and managing their finances. Through candid conversation, Samer offers invaluable advice on business growth, wealth management, and the resilience needed to overcome adversity, especially in the face of challenges and animosity. He also answers questions from our audience, providing insights on how to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, Samer's wisdom and personal story will leave you inspired and motivated to take your business to the next level. Tune in for expert advice, powerful insights, and a reminder that resilience is key to building lasting success.   To learn more about Jarrar & Associates CPAs or to schedule a free consultation, click HERE To follow Jarrar & Associates CPAs on Instagram, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE To follow Well Rooted on TikTok, click HERE

  27. 8

    The importance of female financial independence, counteracting cultural biases, and owning your truth and power with entrepeneur and comic Lana Salah

    In this episode of Well Rooted, we sit down once again with entrepreneur and stand-up comic, Lana Salah, for an inspiring conversation about her journey into the world of comedy and entertainment. From her first steps in stand-up to how she navigates both giving and receiving feedback. Lana shares her insights and lessons learned along the way in her career. She opens up about her perspective on financial independence, the challenges women face in pursuing careers in entertainment, and her advice for anyone looking to carve their own path. Tune in for a dose of wisdom, laughter, and lots of real talk that will leave you feeling empowered and ready to chase your dreams.   To stay up to date on Lana's upcoming shows click HERE. To follow Lana on Instagram, click HERE. To follow Well Rooted on Instagram, click HERE. To Learn more about Jarrar and Associates and set up your free consultation, click HERE

  28. 7

    The best shawarma, red flags, common culture, and translating content creation into a full-pledged comedy career with comedian, Nasser Al-Rayess

    HABIBIIII, we are back with our first episode of 2025!  For this week's episode, we sit down with the one and only self-proclaimed "Shawarma King," Syrian-American comedian Nasser Al-Rayess, to discuss his incredible journey from content creation to headlining his own world comedy tour. Nasser shares invaluable advice for aspiring comedians and creatives, touches on the importance of staying true to one's identity and values, and offers a glimpse into his future endeavors. From revealing red flags girls should take note of to describing the secret to the perfect shawarma, this conversation is packed with laughs, insights, and plenty of wisdom.   To follow Nasser on Instagram click HERE   To follow Nasser on YouTube click HERE   To follow Nasser on TikTok click HERE   To stay updated on Nasser's latest news and tour dates click HERE   To follow Well Rooted on Instagram click HERE   To follow Well Rooted on TikTok click HERE   To learn more about Jarrar & Associates CPA's and book your free consultation click HERE

  29. 6

    Authenticity over mass appropriation, Moroccan rugs and textiles, family legacy, building a brand while practicing mindful resilience with Lauren Harb, founder of Harem Modern

    In this week's episode of Well Rooted, Lauren Harb, founder of Harem Modern, shares the story behind her brand, which offers luxurious Moroccan rugs handcrafted by local artisans. She discusses her Palestinian-American heritage and her family's history in textiles and how these influences shape her approach to business. Lauren also reflects on the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship over the past year, blending tradition and modernity as she builds her brand. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on craftsmanship, culture, and the entrepreneurial journey.    Shop Harem Modern HERE Follow Harem Modern on Instagram HERE Follow Well Rooted on Instagram HERE Follow Well Rooted on TikTok HERE Learn more about Jarrar and Associates and book your free consultation HERE

  30. 5

    DJ HABIBEATS, Sabrina Claudio, the building of an empire, filling cultural voids, and why good music always wins with founder of Grass Fed Music, Nael Atweh

    In this episode of Well Rooted, we sit down with Nael Atweh, the founder and president of Grass Fed Music, to explore the art of discovering and nurturing exceptional talent. Nael's roster includes groundbreaking R&B artist Sabrina Claudio and cultural icon DJ Habibeats, both of whom are shaping the sound of today's music scene. With extensive experience in sourcing musical talent and an unmatched passion for great music, Nael shares the driving force behind his career and the creation of Grass Fed with his partner and wife, Alyce Hayek, who serves as vice president. Together, they've built a company that helps guide artists to success, with a strong emphasis on the power of a great hit. Tune in as Nael discusses his journey, his approach to artist development, and how Grass Fed Music is redefining the path to musical greatness. Follow Nael on Instagram HERE Follow Grass Fed Music HERE Learn more about Grass Fed Music HERE   Learn more about Jarrar & Associates HERE

  31. 4

    The Adventures of a Palestinian female comic in LA, hot, hilarious, and unapologetically political with Lana Salah

    On today's premiere episode of Well Rooted, I am speaking with entrepreneur, actor, and stand-up comic Lana Salah. Lana shares her journey navigating the Los Angeles comedy scene as a Palestinian woman, particularly over the past year, and how the tragedies unfolding in Palestine and the solidarity movements here in the States have impacted how she approaches her comedy sets. This is such a great episode as her experience in the entertainment industry is not typically spotlighted, and Lana's insight is so interesting that we had to have her back for a part two. Lana Salah is brilliant, honest, and witty. I loved the opportunity to listen to her share her journey, and I know you will too.   To learn more about Lana and stay updated on her upcoming shows click HERE To follow Lana on Instagram click HERE To follow Lana on TikTok click HERE

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Well Rooted is a platform dedicated to uplifting and celebrating MENA entrepreneurs, creatives, and industry leaders. Each episode dives into the journeys of inspiring individuals who are breaking barriers, building legacies, and making an impact in their fields. From artists and innovators to business visionaries, our guests share their stories, insights, and strategies for success. Whether you're seeking motivation, practical advice, or a deeper connection to the MENA community, Well Rooted Podcast is here to fuel your dreams and help you grow.

HOSTED BY

Haneen Jarrar

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