Episodes

Explore our engaging podcast episodes where we discuss a wide range of topics related to third culture experiences, cultural diversity, and global understanding. Our goal is to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding between people from all walks of life. Join us as we navigate the complexities of multiple cultures and share our thoughts on various topics.

Episode List

2.62 Wildfires & Climate Change: A Third Culture Perspective

Dive into the third episode of Third Culture Convos as MJ and Rashed explore the devastating wildfires sweeping North America. Through the lens of third culture experiences, they delve into the impact of climate change on regions like British Columbia and discuss the broader implications for societies at the convergence of cultures. Check out this episode!

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10 of the best Third Culture Musicians – Part 2

Hailing from a British-Indian background and daughter of the legendary Ravi Shankar, Anoushka infuses the sitar with contemporary sounds and influences. Her music is a mesmerizing blend of Eastern and Western sensibilities, creating a sonic tapestry that transcends borders and connects people on a profound level. 2. Jason derulo Jason Derulo’s music is a vibrant celebration of multiculturalism. Born to Haitian parents in Miami, Florida, and raised in a diverse environment, Derulo effortlessly blends pop, R&B, and dancehall influences to create catchy and infectious tunes. His music is a testament to the power of cultural exchange, as he seamlessly weaves

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10 of the best Third Culture Musicians – Part 1

From crafting the timeless anthem ‘We Are the World’ that still unites hearts across borders to breaking down barriers in his iconic music video for ‘Black or White,’ MJ showed us that music knows no bounds. Truly, the King of Pop was a master of blending cultures, reminding us that music has the power to bridge divides and create a world where we can all dance to the same beat, regardless of our backgrounds. 2. Ricky martin The suave and hip-shaking maestro is the embodiment of a true third culture musician. He moved out of his native Puerto Rico at

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Are you a Third Culture Kid?

A Third Culture Kid (TCK), also known as a Third Culture Individual (TCI), is a term used to describe individuals who have spent a significant part of their formative years living in a culture different from their parents’ culture. This could be due to their parents’ work assignments, international relocations, or growing up in a multicultural environment. As a result, TCKs often develop a unique cultural identity that is a blend of their home culture, the host culture, and an amalgamation of various global influences. One of the distinguishing characteristics of TCKs is their adaptability. Growing up in different cultures,

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2.61 The World in a Nutshell – Unraveling Controversies and Conundrums

Dive into the whirlpool of global happenings with us in this episode of Third Culture Convos. We’re dissecting the shockwaves from Trudeau’s marital split and pondering the ripples Messi’s Miami move is making in the football world. We’re also pulling back the curtain on the UN’s role amidst the surge of military coups and questioning the authenticity of body positivity in the music industry, with Lizzo at the center of the storm. Plus, we’re cheering on an underdog in a 100-meter dash. Intrigued? Tune in and join the conversation. Check out this episode!

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2.60 AI, Aliens & Politics: Unraveling the Unexpected

Join us as we delve into a riveting discussion about AI’s impact on design, the surprising debate about aliens in the Senate, and the political shakeup in Canada. Plus, we explore the shocking reality of fraud costing Canadians billions. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that traverses technology, extraterrestrial life, politics, and finance. [00:04:59] The staggering cost of fraud for Canadians [00:24:57] Jordan Henderson’s signing by Al Ettifaq [00:38:26] The alien discussion on the Senate floor [01:09:07] AI’s potential impact on graphic designers Check out this episode!

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2.59 Hollywood on Strike: The Battle for Creativity

Dive into the heart of Hollywood’s biggest labor dispute as the Writer’s Guild of America and the Actors Guild take a stand against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. Explore the complexities of streaming rights, the role of artificial intelligence in creative projects, and the future of the industry. Will this strike reshape Hollywood as we know it? Tune in to find out. Check out this episode!

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2.58 Vision 2030: Saudi Arabia’s Transformation

Join us as we delve into Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan. We discuss the country’s strategic shift from oil dependence to a diversified economy, the rise of entertainment tourism, and the welcoming of foreign investments. Tune in to understand the rapid changes sweeping across the nation. Check out this episode!

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2.57 Unsettled: A Third Culture Conversation on Identity and Belonging

Join us in this episode of Third Culture Convos as we delve into the heart of what it means to be a third culture individual. Our hosts share their personal journeys, discussing the feeling of unsettlement and the impact of phrases like “go back to where you came from”. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on identity, belonging, and the complexities of global news. Check out this episode!

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2.56 Voices of Heritage: Unraveling the Threads of Language and Culture

In this episode of Culture Convos, we unravel the complex threads that tie language to culture. Hear firsthand experiences of how language preservation and loss have shaped our identities and the identities of those around us. Don’t miss this deep dive into the intricate relationship between language, culture, and immigration. Check out this episode!

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2.55 Unpacking the Premier League’s Saudi Dilemma: A Third Culture Perspective

In this episode, Majid and Waseem offer a unique third culture perspective on Gary Neville’s proposition to stop Premier League transfers to Saudi Arabia. Listen as they challenge conventional wisdom and explore how this could reshape the soccer landscape. Whether you’re a soccer fan, a third culture kid, or someone interested in global affairs, this episode offers a fresh take on a hot topic. Check out this episode! Transcript Majid: Good morning, good afternoon, good evening, whoever you are, wherever you are. Welcome to the third Culture Convos podcast. I’m joined with my boy, with I imagined. What’s up? What’s

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2.54 UAPs and Faith: Unraveling the Unspoken Reality

Join us as we explore the intersection of the unexplained and the divine. We delve into Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAPs) and the profound implications their existence could have on religious beliefs and faith. Drawing on recent whistleblower revelations, we discuss the hidden truths that governments may know about these mysterious occurrences. Check out this episode! Transcript Waseem: Good morning, good afternoon, good evening, and welcome back to Third Culture Convos, where third culture kids sit back, relax, and talk about global issues that affect third culture kids and how they identify and deal with being a part of this global

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2.53 AI Frontier: Promise, Concerns, and the Unknown

Immerse yourself in the captivating realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in this enlightening episode of Third Culture Convos. We dissect the swift evolution of AI and its profound implications for our collective future. From the thrill of boundless possibilities to the apprehension surrounding societal shifts and job displacement, we scrutinize every facet of this multifaceted issue. In this stimulating dialogue, we grapple with the AI paradox: even its creators are still striving to fully comprehend its vast potential. Amidst the relentless pace of progress, we delve into the mounting calls for a pause in AI development. Join us as we

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2.52 Navigating Global Conversations: Beyond Small Talk & Stereotypes

Tune in for an insightful rollercoaster, as we unmask the tedious dance of small talk, delve into the cross-cultural quagmire, and challenge societal norms around relationships. No ‘Karen’ goes unmentioned in this exciting episode! Check out this episode! Transcript Rashed: So I, have a running joke. I have a running joke. So that no, it’s a joke too. No, it’s also a joke. It’s a running joke in the sense people ask me, oh, what are you gonna get married? And all that kind of stuff. And I, say that what I need is, I need some to find someone

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2.51 The Double-Edged Sword of Group Identity: Bridges or Barriers?

In this episode, Waseem, Rashed, and Majid dive deep into the dynamics of group identity, exploring the allure and pitfalls of belonging, the role of arrogance as a defense mechanism, and the fear of rejection. They navigate through the emotional currents of group dynamics, pointing out the cycle of creating new groups when we feel outcast, only to risk repeating the same pattern. They bring to light a critical question – is the goal to build bridges across our differences or to pull them down? Through thoughtful discourse, the trio examines the potential for interfaith dialogue as a tool for

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2.50 Ancient Apocalypse and the AI Evolution: A Third Culture Kid Perspective

In this episode, hosts Waseem and Majid journey through time, from discussing the mysteries of an ancient apocalypse to speculating about the future of AI technologies. They reflect on their perspectives as third culture kids, pondering how these distinct viewpoints might shape reactions to emerging technologies like ChatGPT. As they delve into the role of big tech companies and the potential of AI as a personal mirror for self-improvement, they invite listeners to consider the multifaceted implications of these advancements. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on these intriguing topics. Check out this episode! Transcript Waseem: Good morning, good

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2.49 Tipping Culture: A Third Culture Kid’s Perspective on Service and Wages

In this episode, Waseem and Majid explore the complexities of tipping culture from a third culture kid’s perspective. They discuss the varying expectations and practices around tipping in different countries, questioning whether tipping truly improves service quality or just reflects a deeper issue with wages in the service industry. Join them as they invite listeners to share their own experiences and thoughts on the subject and consider the challenges that third culture kids face when navigating tipping etiquette. Transcript Waseem: Welcome back to Third Culture Convos. I’m Wasim your host for today’s episode, and today I’m joined by Maji and

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2.48 Navigating the AI Frontier: Possibilities, Ethics, and Cultural Implications

Join Waseem and Rashed for an insightful conversation about artificial intelligence, its numerous possibilities, and the ethical challenges that come with its advancements. They explore how AI can transform fields such as linguistics, art, and even debate, all while considering the cultural and societal repercussions of this emerging technology. Waseem and Rashed emphasize the significance of treating AI with respect and mindfulness while recognizing its ability to bridge cultural divides and promote understanding among diverse populations. Don’t miss this captivating episode and be a part of the conversation surrounding AI and its influence on our future. Check out this episode!

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2.47 Inside vs. Outside: The Cultural Understanding Debate

Check out this episode! Transcript 2.47 Inside vs. Outside: The Cultural Understanding Debate Waseem: Welcome back to Third Culture Convos, the podcast where we explore the intricacies of growing up in multiple cultures and bridging the gaps between them. In today’s episode, we’re trying something a little different. We’ll present a fictional debate between two characters with opposing views on a thought-provoking question. Can one truly understand a culture without being a part of it or growing up? Inside it. As Third Culture Kids, this topic is near and dear to our hearts. So join us as we navigate this

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2.46 The Western Privilege Paradox: Unpacking Virtue and Bias in a Globalized World

In this insightful episode, Waseem, MJ, and Rashed explore the concept of Western Privilege and its impact on the West’s self-perception as a force for virtue. They delve into the complex intersections of environmental activism, critical race theory, and gender, shedding light on the blind spots and biases that can arise from Western-centric perspectives. Join them as they challenge conventional narratives and discuss the importance of recognizing privilege in fostering a more inclusive and nuanced global dialogue. Check out this episode! Transcript Waseem: Welcome to another episode of Third Culture Convos, the podcast where we navigate the complexities of identity

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2.45 Shifting Sands: The Rise of the Global South and the Third Culture Perspective

In this eye-opening episode of Third Culture Convos, Waseem, MJ, and Rashed delve into the fascinating transition of global power dynamics, as the United States faces a potential decline and countries like Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa rise to prominence. As third culture kids, our hosts offer unique insights into how these shifts impact identity, belonging, and the interconnected world we live in. Tune in to hear their thought-provoking discussion and explore the growing influence of the Global South through the lens of the third-culture experience. Check out this episode! Episode Transcript: Waseem: [00:00:00] Welcome to Third Culture

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2.44 Toxic Enjoyment?

Sport is the universal language of the world. A particular sport’s popularity changes based on country and region, but they all have an element of unhealthy toxicity. From pressure on kids to unpaid athletes at the collegiate level who’s to blame? The fans or the nature of the Business of Sport? Athletes are often viewed inhumanely as un-human. When are they good enough to be valued without reprisal and scrutiny? Join MJ and Rashed as they delve into this realm of irresponsible expectations. Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, and comments! Check out this episode!

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2.43 Ramadan. A celebration of religious sincerity or superficiality?

Christmas and Easter Christians – CNEs – are those who become “religious” during these Christian holidays, but what about the Islamic sphere? Many Muslims become “religious” for Ramadan while ignoring religious duties throughout the year. Many Ramadan Muslims – RMs – champion the importance of praying and fasting during the holy month, but do they have the moral ground to stand upon to play judge and cheerleader? Or is it “piety” shrouded in hypocrisy? Join MJ and Rashed as they sift through an annually short-lived transformation for some. Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, and comments! Check out

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2.42 ALIENS!!!

UFOs have increasingly taken over our news cycle but is ET on board? Waseem and Mj explore close encounters of the third kind as the third culture. Would superior intelligence really bother with our little third rock from the sun? What if they already walk amongst us? If aliens did exist, would you want to know or is life better with mystery? Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions and comments!Check out this episode!

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2.41 Are teachers needed anymore?

Bernie Sanders wants American teachers to earn at least $60,000 a year. Does this make sense? Is it feasible and sustainable? Is it even important? A key determinant with teachers seems to be administrators and politicians. They determine funding, curriculum, and other things. Are they helping or hurting teachers? Is it possible to develop progressive teachers and students in a repressive environment? Waseem and Mj look at various different angles with regards to teachers and ultimately conclude that we, society, need to increase pay for nurses and teachers STAT!Waseem and Mj kick things off but rashed makes a surprise appearance,

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2.40 Too much or not enough? Third Culture representation in Media & Entertainment.

There’s been a lot of talk and some action regarding diversity, inclusion and representation in the media and entertainment industry. Trevor Noah, Hasan Minhaj, Mindy Kaling, Aziz Ansari are just some examples. So then are third Culture kids over-represented in Media? Are they drowning out the voices and stories of their diaspora? Or are they providing a lens and an opening into that very diaspora? Waseem and Mj kick things off but rashed makes a surprise appearance, joining in from a sketchy bar in Thailand. The Convo veers towards the on the ground situation in Thailand and how many Burmese

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2.39 Mo Money, Mo Problems…Mo layoffs?!

Big Tech-Twitter, Alphabet, Amazon & Microsoft- have announced tens of thousands of layoffs. What does this mean to work reform and corporate loyalty? Is the current generation asking for or expecting too much? What is the endgame? A certain brand of corporation is spreading globally. We see this in the allegations of malfeasance and corruption levelled by American company Hindenburg Research towards the Indian owned Ambani Group of companies. The reaction has been interesting and telling to say the least. Can nationalism protect from poor and bad business practices? Join Waseem and MJ at the water cooler as they wax

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2.38 Qur’an burning in Sweden. Why so sensitive?

Rasmus Paludan, leader of Danish far-right political party Hard Line hosted a Qur’an burning in Sweden last week. As expected, the burning generated backlash and condemnation from around the Muslim world, but is this necessary? Why do Muslims always react to trolling attempts? Can we have sensible discussions about taboo subjects in general? Is the Muslim world trapped in a linear non-critical mindset that suppresses intellectual expansion? Join Waseem, MJ, and Rashed as they pick apart taboo subjects too racy for many. Don’t forget to hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, and comments! Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com

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2.31 FIFA. More like Thief-ya?

Qatar world cup – Not since the 1936 Berlin Olympics has a sporting event garnered so much controversy beforehand. From a 3rd culture perspective, it makes sense. West is meeting East on a global scale and cultural confusions abound. Waseem and Mj take a nuanced, contextual, macro gander at the various discussions surrounding their favorite football tournament.Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, comments, and concerns! Check out this episode!

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2.37 Is the “marriageable pool” more shallow?

An expectation for the younger generation is to get married and have kids. Arranged marriage was much more common in the past, and still occurs today, however many men claim to face difficulty in finding a marriage partner when not going down that route. The “modern woman” doesn’t seem to fit the “criteria”, for some. Is this outdated? Do old perceptions of “marriage material” coincide with the modern world? Are there too many women in the workforce? Why should the burden of certain sacrifices be placed solely on women? Does toxic masculinity influence the boxes needed to be ticked for

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2.36 Appropriate appropriation? FIFA World Cup 2022’s culmination.

The Qatar World Cup provided many moments of controversy and criticism. The latest of which is the draping of Lionel Messi with a Bisht, a traditional Arab cloak worn daily by men, or gifted to an individual as a sign of respect and honour, during the trophy ceremony. Western media outlets framed this as “forced upon him” with unsavoury epithets. But what of cultural appropriation in the West when it’s under their terms? Is there a difference? What of the greed machine of FIFA, Elon Musk, Salt Bae sprinkling the World Cup trophy, Corporate Pirate Economy, Subjective Criticism of the

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2.35 Fable Narrative? Israel-Palestine

The Zionist narrative of the Land of Israel-Palestine promotes the concept that it was a barren wasteland, that Jewish immigrants developed the land and infrastructure from nothing. Is this an accurate description despite historical evidence proving the contrary?  Join Waseem and Rashed as they continue their discussion on this ever passionate and intense conflict.  Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, and comments! Check out this episode!

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2.32 A World Cup upset in an upset World.

In the midst of a shock victory by Saudi Arabia over Argentina in the Qatar World Cup, many controversial topics abound of what FIFA don’t want you to hear. Grass roots efforts of social justice are habitually hijacked by corporations, like FIFA only to be promoted when deemed fit by the elites. Hypocritical tactics or forced acceptance? One Love or partial love? Waseem, MJ, and Rashed delve into ongoing controversies affecting the tournament. Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, comments, and concerns!Check out this episode!

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2.34 Chameleon Narrative? Israel-Palestine.

Is the Israeli media experiencing a paradigm shift in their narrative of the conflict, or does it change colours to suit the reality at the time? Are Israeli and Palestinian societies ready to take an introspective look at themselves and their respective flaws that contribute to the endless cycle of retaliatory aggression? Join Waseem and Rashed in their discussion. Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, and comments! Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, comments, and concerns!Check out this episode!

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2.33 Removing God; Agitating the Persian Lion. Empty American protest?

Ahead of their politically charged match against Iran at the Qatar World Cup, the United States Soccer Federation posted an image of the Iranian flag without the “Allah” emblem on social media. Is this an empty show of support or genuine inspiration for the ongoing protests in Iran? Does Corporate Protest have merit or is it baseless ? Join Waseem, MJ, and Rashed as they discuss yet another controversy at the tournament. Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, comments, and concerns!Check out this episode!

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2.29 Can Freedom of Speech be truly free?

Freedom of Speech versus Hate Speech. Who decides and how? Do limits stifle open and necessary debate or protect those who are targeted with hatred from physical and emotional harm? Waseem, MJ, and Rashed discuss the various contradictions and dichotomies associated with Freedom of Speech, and what could be perceived as Hate Speech. Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, comments, and concerns!yCheck out this episode!

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2.30 Is Meta making a Betta world?

Meta has announced 11,000 layoffs. Social media, particularly Facebook, played a big part of the millennial third culture experience. This week’s third culture conversation includes Meta’s role in society, where the Metaverse is headed and similarities and differences between mark Zuckerberg and Elon musk. Business, ethics and social media and technology are the major areas covered by Waseem and Majid. Hit us up at thirdcultureconvos@gmail.com with any questions, comments, and concerns!yCheck out this episode!

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2.27 Obnoxious Activism

Virtue as a weapon; from Saudi religious authorities to throwing tomato soup on an oil painting. Do these seemingly idiotic tactics garner sympathy to one’s cause or more negative criticism and disdain? Join Waseem, MJ, and Rashed as they discuss radical modes of expression within activist circles.Check out this episode!

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2.28 Does Kanye degrade the African-American experience?

Civil Activism, Mental health, Christian-Conservative politics; Is Kanye West a proponent for these issues and values or is his influence a blight on millions of people? Have his outlandish remarks and actions been committed out of sincere mind to create conversation or is he trolling the masses? Waseem, MJ, and Rashed try to make sense of the enigma that is “Ye”.Check out this episode!

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2.26 Tradition versus Modernity

Waseem, MJ, and Rashed discuss Tradition vs. Modernity in topics ranging from sports to societal issues such as technological advancement and economics. How are these wide ranging topics connected to each other if it all?   https://www.waseem.space https://www.instagram.com/thirdcultureconvos/   Check out this episode!

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2.25 Con-flicted: Pros and Cons to being a Third Culture Individual

Waseem, MJ, and Rashed discuss the Pros and Cons of being a Third Culture Individual. Is having chameleon and adaptable qualities beneficial or a hindrance to making lasting friends and relationships? How do political leanings factor into an individual’s adaptability? Does being a “Jack of all trades” I.e. fitting in everywhere and nowhere prepare one better for adult life?Check out this episode!

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2.24 When you don’t quite fit

Waseem, MJ, and Rashed discuss how a simple question like “Where are you from?” can imply judgement or curiosity. Is it racist in nature or from a place of intrigue? Could aliens make us less tribalistic and more inclusive of our differences focusing on our commonality as a species? Join us as we explore how we “other”.Check out this episode!

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2.23 A world out of balance

After a hiatus Waseem, MJ, and Rashed return to the digital airwaves. We discuss various challenges the world has been facing recently – floods in Pakistan, skepticism of the political elite, and an economic crisis plaguing the world to name a few. Join us as we attempt to make sense of the post-COVID world. Check out this episode!

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Episode 22 | Meet American Saudi Car Photographer

What do you do when you grow up in more than one place? How does it shape you? How do you identify? Who do you hang out with? In this week’s episode we interview Faris Fetyani, a third culture auto photographer that grew up between New York and Saudi Arabia. How did the cultural differences affect his growing up? From parties to school, to relationships we explore the shades of grey.  Check out this episode!

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Episode 21 | COVID Certainty

In this very special episode, MJ and Waseem sit down, live and in-person, for the first time since the pandemic affected life across the globe in March 2020. They reflect on vaccine hesitancy, vaccination rates and what to do when you’re 100% sure about something.  Welcome to our third cultured meanderings. Check out this episode!

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Episode 20 | Language in Society

Waseem, MJ, and Rashed discuss multiple language abilities.  How does knowing more than one language influence an individual and their life experiences? What effect does society have in language use and development? Join us in our meandering. Check out this episode!

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Episode 19 | Vague History

Waseem and Rashed discuss the type of history taught in schools and the lack of historical truth associated with the curriculums.  How does the realization of the grey area and its content affect one’s perception of history? Join us in our meandering. Check out this episode!

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Episode 18 | Wide World of Wasta

In this episode, Waseem and Majid discuss the Middle Eastern concept of wasta, aka favors and influence. How is influence and the social dimensions of Wasta affect the way life is lived and the way things get done? Is Wasta a purely Middle Eastern concept? What are the North American similarities to the concept? Tune in and enjoy.  Check out this episode!

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Episode 17 | On Fatherhood

In this special Eid episode, Waseem is flying solo and he discusses what being a father means to him. Meandering and sharing, Waseem shares his feelings towards fatherhood and what he thinks the role of a father is in a child’s life. Join him.  Check out this episode!

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