Chai Guys

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Actor Pej Vahdat talks about his work on hit projects like Dynasty, Shameless, and the Oscar nominated Everything Everywhere All at Once.

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Musicians Shaheen Samadi and Ashley Zarah discuss their work, and the importance of art during social-political upheaval.

Comedian and content creator Reza Jax kicks off season 2

We're back for Season 2! BUT the hosts will have to fight it out if they want a seat at the table.

Thank you to everyone who tuned in and learned about what is taking place in Iran. Thank you, especially, for the vulnerability from our Iranian listeners- the power of your voice and personal stories transcends and is going to make such a difference.

CALL TO ACTION: The Islamic Republic of Iran has been shutting down cellphone and internet access across the country. The most important thing we can do is share what is happening, sign petitions, learn about the history, and call your reps.

Visit this Google Document that is regularly updated with the most up-to-date actions and resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DjSDd4MHlgEmXbuhWpV2g3RrVsEUpT0xKPVarzjkCKc/mobilebasic

Here are some Iranian and Iranian-American thought leaders to follow and repost:

Holly Dagres, an analyst and editor Jasmin Ramsey, the deputy director of the Center for Human Rights in Iran Rana Rahimpour, journalist for BBC Gissou Nia, human rights lawyer and Iranian-American Mahsa Alimardani, an internet researcher focusing on freedom of expression and access toinformation online in Iran Yeganeh Rezaian, a journalist Nazanin Boniadi, an actor and ambassador of Amnesty UK Roya Boroumand, co-founder and executive director of Abdorrahman Boroumand Center Shayan Sardarizadeh, a journalist for the BBC

SIGN A PETITION: You can also sign Amnesty International’s ongoing petition, which seeks to tackle the ongoing impunity in Iran. Petitioners are asking for the creation of an independent United Nations mechanism that will investigate and hold Iranian officials accountable for their actions. Another petition by Change.org is urging leaders of democratic countries to act, you can sign it here.

USE YOUR POLITICAL POWER: Supporters across the United States have been gathering for demonstrations in cities like Los Angeles and New York. You can join your town or state’s local protest to bring greater attention to the cause. Following social media accounts to stay up to date on upcoming demonstrations can help. Middle East Matters on Instagram has been strictly posting where and when protests in support of Iran are being held globally. If you can’t attend a protest yourself, spreading the message by sharing or sending posts can help spread the word.

U.S. supporters can also ask their congressmen to vocalize their support of the Iranian protests. Citizens can contact their representatives through a written email, or by calling their local elected official’s office. You can find out who your elected officials are by visiting house.gov/representatives andsenate.gov. If you live in the U.K., you can also write to your member of parliament, which you can find by entering your postcode here.

In the final episode of Chai Guys Season 1, Ethan and Darian dish on their personal lives.

OuttaPocketAli joins Chai Guys to discuss his new found fame, TikTok career, and some crazy stories.

Actor and comedian Payam Banifaz joins Chai Guys to talk about working in Hollywood, his career, and recent entrainment shakeups like the Oscars slap and the hit movie Everything Everywhere All at Once.

Abdi Nazemian, an Iranian-American author, screenwriter, and producer joins Chai Guys to talk about his work and MENA representation in media.

Kimia Karaminejad Ranjbar joins Chai Guys to talk about her TikTok career.

Comedian and internet sensation Dauood Naimyar joins Chai Guys to talk about his work and journey as a comedian.

Welcome to Chai Guys! A podcast that focuses on Persian culture and features MENA guests.

Meet Darian and Ethan, your hosts for this season.

Welcome to Chai Guys. A podcast that focuses on Persian Gen Z culture. The show features creatives from Persian and MENA communities who are making an impact on this generation. The show is hosted by Ethan Panoussi and Darian Ahmadizadeh.