Imshi Imshi

Hakawati | حكواتي
Imshi Imshi

“Imshi Imshi" unfolds the profound stories of Arabs who have journeyed from the Middle East to the Western world. Our guests share their transformative experiences, marked by war-torn childhoods, cultural upheavals, and a relentless quest for identity amid adversity. This podcast is a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, resilience, and the human spirit's remarkable capacity to rise, rebuild, and radiate hope. Navigating the complex tapestry of different cultures, languages, and societal expectations, our guests, hailing from diverse backgrounds and professions, offer an intimate glimpse into the lives of Arabs in the West. They confront stereotypes, embrace their heritage, and celebrate their contributions, weaving tales of leaving their homelands, finding new communities, and impacting the world. "Imshi Imshi" is a Hakawati Production Hosted by Fadi Hindi Executive Producers: Fadi Hindi and Karim Beidoun Cover Art by Tiffany Moujaes

  1. Reframing Global Narratives with Salem Barahmeh

    28 OCT

    Reframing Global Narratives with Salem Barahmeh

    Today, we are honored to have Salem Barahmeh, a dynamic figure whose life journey spans from the heart of Palestine to the global stage. Growing up between Jerusalem and Jericho during the first and second Intifadas, Salem's early life was marked by the harsh realities of apartheid and violence. Despite these challenges, Salem pursued higher education in Wisconsin and London, eventually becoming a key player in Palestinian diplomacy and politics. Now, as the founder of Uncivilized, a platform dedicated to reshaping global narratives about Palestine and the wider Arab world. Salem is using storytelling to shift narratives and bring global issues to the forefront. Join us as we explore Salem Barahmeh’s journey of resilience, his vision for the future, and how he’s using his voice to empower and educate through Uncivilized. Check out Uncivilized here: https://www.patreon.com/uncivilizedmedia

  2. 21 OCT

    Crossing Borders and Building Cases with Ghassan Shamieh

    Today, we are honored to have Ghassan Shamieh with us, a dedicated immigration lawyer and advocate for Palestinian rights based in San Francisco. Born to Palestinian parents who fled their homeland during the 1967 war, Ghassan was raised in the Bay Area, where he faced the challenges of navigating his identity in post-9/11 America. From standing up to school administrators who sought to silence his pro-Palestinian stance to becoming a prominent voice for Palestinian rights, Ghassan's path has been anything but easy. Now, as an immigration lawyer, he uses his platform to fight for Palestinian an Arab families, ensuring they have the legal representation they need. Join us as Ghassan shares his story of overcoming identity struggles, his relentless advocacy for justice, and his mission to amplify the voices of the Palestinian people. More on Ghassan here: https://www.ghassanforcitycouncil.com/

  3. From Corporate Law to Spiritual Wellness with Amanda Jawad

    14 OCT

    From Corporate Law to Spiritual Wellness with Amanda Jawad

    Today, we are joined by Amanda Jawad, whose journey from a high-flying legal career to becoming a meditation teacher is both inspiring and eye-opening. Amanda's path took her from the vibrant Arab community in Dearborn, Michigan, to the halls of Harvard Law School, and then to the intense world of corporate law in New York City. Despite these accomplishments, Amanda faced profound personal challenges, including a deep depression and the pressures of a high-stress job. In a pivotal shift, Amanda embraced spirituality and meditation, ultimately finding her calling in helping Arab women release guilt and shame. Join us as Amanda shares her incredible journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of embracing one's true path. More on Amanda here: https://msha.ke/amandajawad

  4. From YouTube Criticism to Musical Stardom with Talia Lahoud

    23 SEPT

    From YouTube Criticism to Musical Stardom with Talia Lahoud

    Today, we have a unique perspective from the Middle East that resembles the same pain points we face in the diaspore. Talia Lahoud, is a 21-year-old musical talent from Batroun, Lebanon. Talia’s journey is a testament to perseverance amid adversity. Starting on YouTube at 11, she faced harsh criticism but continued to pursue her passion for music. Despite familial expectations to follow a traditional career path, Talia chose music, gaining recognition by 17. Her path was filled with challenges, including the loss of her father and economic hardships, making her feel far from achieving her dreams. However, her persistence paid off when she was signed by Nvak Collective in LA, finally turning her luck around. Talia's story is one of overcoming repeated setbacks and finding hope in the support of her followers and the opportunities that finally came her way. Join us as Talia shares her inspiring journey of resilience, passion, and breakthrough.

  5. Redefining Palestinian Identity with Jenan Matari

    16 SEPT

    Redefining Palestinian Identity with Jenan Matari

    Today, we have the honor of introducing Jenan Matari, a dedicated advocate and storyteller whose journey encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of embracing one's identity. Born into a first-generation Arab American household, Jenan's family history is deeply rooted in the Palestinian experience. Her grandparents' stories of displacement during the 1948 Nakba and their subsequent migrations to Brazil, Jordan, and eventually the United States, set the backdrop for her life's narrative. Despite growing up in a predominantly white, Jewish town in New Jersey, Jenan struggled with her Palestinian identity, often feeling the pressure to assimilate. It wasn't until her early twenties that she began to reconnect with her roots, leading her to become a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights and media literacy. Join us as Jenan shares her powerful journey of self-discovery, the importance of reclaiming her identity, and her mission to positively impact future generations.

  6. From Kidnapping to Empowering Youth with Hanin Al Qoreishy

    8 SEPT

    From Kidnapping to Empowering Youth with Hanin Al Qoreishy

    Today, we share the incredible journey of Hanin Al Qoreishy, whose life story unfolds like a tapestry of courage and determination. Born into a politically and religiously influential family in Iraq, Baghdad, Hanin's early years were shattered by conflict and personal tragedy, including a horrifying kidnapping at age 9. Awakening from a traumatic coma in a new country, with no memory of her past, Hanin faced unimaginable challenges from a very young age. Today she stands as a recognized leader and proud owner at Legacy Insurance Advisors in Houston, Texas. Hanin's relentless spirit has not only propelled her to success in the business world but also inspired her to give back through her non-profit organization, Uplifted Hearts, which is dedicated to supporting child refugees and orphans. Join us as Hanin shares how she turned her trials into opportunities of triumphs, fostering connections, and building community. https://legacyinsuranceadv.com/ https://upliftedhearts.org/

  7. Bridging Worlds with Brushstrokes with Suhad Khatib

    26 AUG

    Bridging Worlds with Brushstrokes with Suhad Khatib

    Today, we have the honor of speaking with Suhad Khatib, an artist, filmmaker, and designer, and the daughter of Palestinian massacre survivors. Born in Oman, raised in Jordan, and having lived in the US for over 14 years, Suhad has numerously navigated the complexities of identity and belonging. Her work, described as "an intentional study on healing and identity," has been showcased in cities worldwide, including Montreal, New York, and Amman. Through social justice campaigns like #Ferguson2Palestine and #ShowMe15, Suhad's art and philosophy aim to reverse the harm of propaganda. From facing personal and professional upheavals to finding solace and strength in her art, Suhad's story is one of resilience and transformation. Join us as we delve into her experiences of overcoming adversity, reclaiming her heritage, and using her creative talents to inspire and heal. More on Suhad here: https://suhadkhatib.com/

  8. Spreading Unity and Joy with Every Bite with Fatmah Muhammad

    19 AUG

    Spreading Unity and Joy with Every Bite with Fatmah Muhammad

    Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Fatmah Muhammad, the proud owner of Knafeh Queens, whose journey from Kansas City to Southern California is as rich and layered as her delicious knafeh. Raised in an all-white community, Fatmah faced prejudice and suspicion, especially after 9/11, when her family home was unjustly searched by police. Despite these challenges, Fatmah's love for her Palestinian culture and her father's entrepreneurial spirit shone through. Learning to make knafeh at a young age, Fatmah found joy and unity in sharing her culinary talents with others. After the rise of anti-Muslim rhetoric in 2016, Fatmah and her daughter officially launched Knafeh Queens, sharing her authentic narrative and hospitality through her beloved dessert. Join us as Fatmah Muhammad shares her inspiring story of resilience, cultural pride, and the power of how hospitality brings unites us all. Check out Knafeh Queens here: https://www.knafehqueens.com/

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“Imshi Imshi" unfolds the profound stories of Arabs who have journeyed from the Middle East to the Western world. Our guests share their transformative experiences, marked by war-torn childhoods, cultural upheavals, and a relentless quest for identity amid adversity. This podcast is a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, resilience, and the human spirit's remarkable capacity to rise, rebuild, and radiate hope. Navigating the complex tapestry of different cultures, languages, and societal expectations, our guests, hailing from diverse backgrounds and professions, offer an intimate glimpse into the lives of Arabs in the West. They confront stereotypes, embrace their heritage, and celebrate their contributions, weaving tales of leaving their homelands, finding new communities, and impacting the world. "Imshi Imshi" is a Hakawati Production Hosted by Fadi Hindi Executive Producers: Fadi Hindi and Karim Beidoun Cover Art by Tiffany Moujaes

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