Podcasts about Al Jazeera

Acclaimed author Omar El Akkad writes a powerful reflection of Western hypocrisy over Gaza in his book, One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This. We speak to El Akkad on the immense suffering that has occurred over the past two years of Israel's genocidal war and examine how Western liberals failed the people of Gaza. In this episode: Omar El Akkad, writer Episode credits: This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, Amy Walters, and Tracie Hunte with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Duha Mossad, Farhan Rafid, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

On Today's Episode –Mark starts us out talking about the Peace Accord Pres. Trump just got done, all the while, the Left keeps saying all he's doing is golfing. Brandon dives into history, about those in power getting blamed for when a shutdown happens. Is it interesting though that this Trump Narrative of him being a racist – came to fruition only after he decided to run as a Republican. We talk election, Chicago, and a bunch of other topics.Tune in for all the Fun Project 21 Ambassador Brandon Brice is a conservative political commentator from Detroit, Michigan, and a former op-ed columnist for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, Detroit News, Washington Times, Ebony and MSNBC's The Grio.With a career spanning Capitol Hill, state government, grassroots movements and national media platforms, he has become a leading voice challenging conventional narratives and encouraging independent thought through legislative dialogue.An advocate for education reform and school choice, Brandon's media presence includes appearances on MSNBC, Fox News, CGTN America, Al Jazeera, Newsmax, C-SPAN, NPR, BET, The Daily Signal and other major outlets, where he delivers clear, solutions-driven commentary on today's most pressing political concerns, including privacy rights and agendas affecting freedom of speech.He has spoken at Princeton University, the American Enterprise Institute and the Hamilton Society, offering sharp analysis on policy, governance and civic engagement.Brandon's political career began at Howard University, where he earned his Bachelor's in Business Administration, followed by a Master's in Global Affairs from Rutgers University. While at Howard, he served on Capitol Hill under former U.S. Speaker of the House J. Dennis Hastert, gaining firsthand experience in legislative operations and federal strategy.In 2010, Brandon was appointed by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie as Director of Education and African-American Affairs, where he led early childhood education and urban development initiatives across Newark, Camden and Trenton. In 2021, he was appointed by Delaware Governor John Carney to the State Magistrate Screening Process, contributing to the review and selection of judicial candidates.Over his career, Brandon has raised more than $2 million in campaign funds and held influential fellowships with the Heritage Foundation, United Nations Foundation, National Urban League, United Way of Delaware and the Veterans Empowerment Organization of Georgia. He currently serves on the boards of the Caesar Rodney Institute, Lincoln Club of Delaware, Great Oaks Charter School and the De Mar Va Council of the Boy Scouts of America, and cofounded the 100 Black Men of Delaware Chapter. He is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.Brandon's voice in conservative media continues to grow as he champions economic empowerment and educational freedom. Through his on-air commentary and speaking engagements, he challenges voters to explore their full range of political choices and rethink the status quo—reminding America that true power begins with informed decision-making.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

美國政府為何關閉？以前發生過嗎？可能有什麼影響？

This week on Conflicted, host Thomas Small is joined by Alex Vatanka, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute and a leading scholar of Iranian domestic and foreign policy. Together, they explore the profound impact of the recent 12-Day War between Iran, Israel, and the United States on the Islamic Republic. As an Iranian who has studied the regime for decades, Alex offers a vital look into the power struggles between revolutionary ideology and Iranian nationalism that are now at play in Tehran. Thomas and Alex discuss the main events of the war, the strategic decisions made by all sides, and the unexpected conclusion that has left Iran in a precarious position. They delve into how the conflict's strategic and economic fallout - from widespread internet blackouts to the regime's military and technological limitations - has humiliated the ruling elite and exposed their vulnerability. The conversation also explores how the war has intensified internal debates, with pragmatic and moderate voices now pushing for political reform and a change in Iran's foreign policy. The episode offers a sobering, yet essential, look at a regime that must now confront its own failures and decide whether to change course or risk total collapse. You can find Alex on X @AlexVatanka To listen to the full episode, you'll need to subscribe to the Conflicted Community. And don't forget, subscribers can also join our Conflicted Community chatroom, where you can interact with fellow dearest listeners, discuss episodes past and future, get exclusive messages from Thomas and Aimen, ask future Q&A questions and so much more. All the information you need to sign up is on this link: https://conflicted.supportingcast.fm/  Conflicted is proudly made by Message Heard, a full-stack podcast production agency which uses its extensive expertise to make its own shows such as Conflicted, shows for commissioners such as the BBC, Spotify and Al Jazeera, and powerfully effective podcasts for other companies too. If you'd like to find out how we can help get your organisation's message heard, visit messageheard.com or drop an email to hello@messageheard.com! Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MHconflicted And Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MHconflictedLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The smallest belongings can become the most powerful relics. As Palestinians are forced to flee again and again within the Gaza Strip and beyond, people carry personal items that hold deep meaning. In this episode, we explore the stories behind those objects in the midst of a war many are calling genocide. The Take is nominated for the Signal Awards in the Best Daily Podcast category. While we wait for the judges' decisions, you can help us win the listeners' vote. Vote for The Take for Best Daily Podcast. In this episode: Danya Issawi, Fashion News Writer, The Cut Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tracie Hunte, Noor Wazwaz and Sarí el-Khalili, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Amy Walters, Duha Mosaad, Farhan Rafid, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Joe Plourde. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Gaza has faced relentless bombs and hunger for two years. Families struggle to live, children grow up in fear and hope feels distant. We speak to Al Jazeera correspondent Tareq Abu Azzoum to hear what life is really like in Gaza. How do people keep going when the world watches but does little to change the situation on the ground? The Take is nominated for the Signal Awards in the Best Daily Podcast category. While we wait for the judges' decisions, you can help us win the listeners' vote. Vote for The Take for Best Daily Podcast. In this episode: Tareq Abu Azzoum, (@abuoazzum) Al Jazeera Correspondent in Gaza Episode credits: This episode was produced by Melanie Marich, Noor Wazwaz, Tamara Khandaker, Marcos Bartolomé, and Tracie Hunte, with Phillip Lanos, Manny Panaretos, Amy Walters, Duha Mosaad, Farhan Rafid, and our guest host Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

We've known Francesca from the stand-up scene for many years now, but we didn't know her like *this*! And of course, *you* know Francesca from her time at Al Jazeera, her YouTube show The Bitchuation Room or perhaps from her show on Zeteo with Wajahat Ali, America Unhinged. But even if this is your first time meeting Francesca, strap in! We come out of the gate hot and ask why she wanted to have children. Then we get the tale of how she met and divorced her ex-husband, how she met her second husband and so much more, including learning about Grimace and Morning DJ Howard Zinn! PLUS, obvi, we answer YOUR advice questions! If you'd like to ask your own advice questions, call 323-524-7839 and leave a VM or just DM us on IG or Twitter!We're in culture critic and Vulture writer Sean Malin's new book The Podcast Pantheon: 101 Podcasts That Changed How We Listen!ALSO BUY A SUPER CUTE "Open Your Hearts, Loosen Your Butts" mug! And:Support the show on Patreon (two extra exclusive episodes a month!) or gift someone a Patreon subscription! Or get yourself a t-shirt or a discounted Quarantine Crew shirt! And why not leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts? Or Spotify? It takes less than a minute! Follow the show on Instagram! Check out CT clips on YouTube!Plus some other stuff! Watch Naomi's Netflix half hour or Mythic Quest! Check out Andy's old casiopop band's lost album or his other podcast Beginnings!Theme song by the great Sammus! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two years after October 7, talks in Egypt could bring an end to the war in Gaza. Inside Israel, divisions are widening, isolation is deepening, and the cost of war is harder to ignore. What does this moment reveal about the country’s shifting sense of itself? The Take is nominated for the Signal Awards in the Best Daily Podcast category. While we wait for the judges' decisions, you can help us win the listeners' vote. Vote for The Take for Best Daily Podcast. In this episode: Mairav Zonszein (@mairavz), Senior Israel Analyst, International Crisis Group Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, Sarí el-Khalili, Marcos Bartoloméz and Melanie Marich, with Phillip Lanos, Manny Panaretos, Duha Mosaad, Farhan Rafid, Amy Walters and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Despite a UN inquiry and multiple human rights organizations finding that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, Western news outlets are still reluctant to use the term. After nearly two years of bombardment and at least 65,000 Palestinians dead, will they change their tune on Israel? The Take is nominated for the Signal Awards in the Best Daily Podcast category. While we wait for the judges' decisions, you can help us win the listeners' vote. Vote for The Take for Best Daily Podcast In this episode: Assal Rad, Fellow at the Arab Center Washington DC Episode credits: This episode was produced by Haleema Shah, Sarí el-Khalili, and Chloe K. Li, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Amy Walters, Kisaa Zehra, Farhan Rafid, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. The Take production team is Marcos Bartolomé, Sonia Bhagat, Spencer Cline, Sarí el-Khalili, Tracie Hunte, Tamara Khandaker, Kylene Kiang, Phillip Lanos, Chloe K. Li, Melanie Marich, Catherine Nouhan, Haleema Shah, Amy Walters, and Noor Wazwaz. Our editorial interns are Farhan Rafid and Kisaa Zehra. Our host is Malika Bilal. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Andrew Greiner is lead of audience engagement. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week: Hamas responded positively to Donald Trump's ceasefire proposal as both sides said there were still details that needed to be worked out. Israel detained hundreds of activists aboard boats attempting to deliver aid to Gaza. It is day 730 of the war in Gaza, where more than 67,000 Palestinians have been killed. In this episode: Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera Correspondent Rosiland Jordan, (@RosJordanAJE) Al Jazeera Correspondent Mohammed Jamjoom, (@MIJamjoom) Al Jazeera Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced and mixed by David Enders. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our lead of audience development and engagement is Aya Elmileik and Munera AlDosari is our engagement producer. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera's head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on Instagram, X, Facebook, Threads and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Every Saturday, we revisit a story from the archives. This originally aired on October 14, 2024. None of the dates, titles, or other references from that time have been changed. It’s a strange experience for journalist Natasha Del Toro to be on the other side of the mic, sharing her firsthand account of living through back-to-back hurricanes. Families like hers in the state of Florida are facing power outages and damaged homes while trying to rebuild emotionally, all while hurricane season continues. The Take is nominated for the Signal Awards in the Best Daily Podcast category. While we wait for the judges' decisions, you can help us win the listeners' vote. Vote for The Take for Best Daily Podcast In this episode: Natasha Del Toro (@ndeltoro), Journalist Episode credits: This episode was updated by Haleema Shah. The original production team was Tamara Khandaker, Ashish Malhatora, and Sonia Bhagat, with Phillip Lanos, Duha Mosaad, Cole van Miltenburg and our host Malika Bilal. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our engagement producers are Adam Abou-Gad and Vienna Maglio. Aya Elmileik is lead of audience engagement. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer, and Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

The Palestinian liberation struggle is a fundamental class and anti-colonial issue. First-time guest to the podcast, Professor Omar Zahzah, talks with Steve about the active collaboration of Silicon Valley tech giants with the US and Israeli governments to censor and suppress anti-Zionist narratives. "What these companies are doing is digitally amplifying a physical process of settler colonial dispossession." Omar goes beyond labeling digital censorship as simple political bias. He argues that Silicon Valley's actions are a direct extension of imperialist goals in Palestine: the erasure of a people, their narrative, and their history. Big Tech is not a referee – not even a biased one. It is an active combatant. Omar provides a sharp critique of how the language of safety and anti-racism is co-opted and weaponized. Online platforms use terms like "harassment" and "hate speech" to silence criticism. In their discussion, Omar and Steve apply Antonio Gramsci's theory of cultural hegemony to the digital sphere. They analyze how Big Tech platforms shape our "common sense," not just through outright censorship, but through algorithmic curation, shadow-banning, and overwhelming activists with trolls and bots, waging a "digital war of attrition" that drains energy and shifts perceptions. They also suggest the potential TikTok ban is not just a US-China trade issue but a symptom of a crisis of hegemony. Omar Zahzah is a writer, poet, organizer of Lebanese Palestinian descent, and Assistant Professor of Arab and Muslim Ethnicities and Diasporas (AMED) Studies at San Francisco State University. Omar has covered digital repression in relation to Palestine as a freelance journalist since May 2021, with work appearing in such outlets as Al Jazeera, Middle East Eye, Electronic Intifada, Mondoweiss, CounterPunch, and more. Omar holds a PhD in Comparative Literature from UCLA. His recently published book is Terms of Servitude: Zionism, Silicon Valley, and Digital Settler Colonialism in the Palestinian Liberation Struggle @dromarzahzah on X

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

In this special episode, we examine the systematic targeting of Palestinian journalists in Gaza during two years of Israeli genocide. With international media barred from freely reporting in the Strip, local journalists have risked their lives to document the unprecedented killing, destruction and displacement around them. Since October 7, 2023, more media workers have been killed in Gaza than in any modern conflict. Families have been torn apart, homes and offices destroyed, and reporters have been wounded, seen their families killed or have been killed themselves. This episode reveals the extraordinary playbook employed by Israel to threaten, intimidate, smear and target Palestinian journalists. Contributors: Wael Dahdouh – Gaza Bureau Chief, Al Jazeera Jodie Ginsberg – Chief Executive, Committee to Protect Journalists Sharif Abdel Kouddous – Journalist & Editor, Drop Site News Rachel Shabi – Journalist and author Presenter: Richard Gizbert Produced by: Soumaya El Filali, Monazza Farooqi, Ella Willis, Tariq Nafi, Meenakshi Ravi

Guest: Lanier Isom, journalist and author of Grace and Grit: How I Won My Fight at Goodyear and Beyond - the life story of Lilly Ledbetter Film: Lilly - based on the book, now available on Amazon. Key Lilly Ledbetter Quotes: On Pay Negotiation and Career Planning "Your first job is very important because even though you're not even thinking about retirement, how much you pay is gonna determine, you know, the health of your retirement. So you have to be able to negotiate pay." Key Messages About Lilly Ledbetter's Story •Lilly Ledbetter is an Alabama native from Possum Trot, Alabama, who became the namesake of President Obama's first piece of legislation: The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Restoration Act •The film Lilly had its world premiere at the 2024 Hamptons International Film Festival •Blue Harbor Entertainment released Lilly exclusively in theaters in May 2025 •The story represents an important fight for equal pay and fair treatment in the workplace About Lanier Isom's Journey as a Writer •Lanier grew up in Birmingham with parents who loved books, art, and surrounded themselves with creative people •She graduated from Sophie Newcomb (women's college within Tulane University) in 1987 with an English degree •After struggling to find work with her degree, she sold children's shoes before getting her master's at UAB in English •She taught for over 11 years at Altamont School and Mountain Brook High School •Transitioned through PR work, magazine editing at Birmingham Home and Garden Magazine, and eventually freelance writing •Key insight: "Every job I've ever had, I had no idea. I was not trained to do it... I knew how to learn. A humanities education taught me how to learn. So I just learned on the job." How Lanier Met Lilly •In 2009, when President Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Restoration Act, Lanier's husband suggested the story •When Lanier first called Lilly, she was overwhelmed with media attention and said: "I'm up to my knees in alligators" and hung up •Lanier gathered her courage, called back, and interviewed Lilly for a magazine article •This became the beginning of their relationship and eventually the book •Lanier's belief: "As writers, as artists... the universe, I could not have planned that." On Women's Issues and Generational Context •Lanier was exposed to women's studies at Tulane, which was very important to her development •She was raised by a second-wave feminist mother who struggled as a newly divorced woman in the 1970s trying to find work and support her children •Generational challenge: Women of their generation (born in the 1960s) were not taught about business, negotiating salaries, or thinking about pay and money •"Money talk was not something very comfortable for me" •This lack of education about financial negotiation directly connects to Lilly's message about the importance of advocating for fair pay On the Power of Writing and Art •Writing as transformation: "Writing is so powerful and the arts are so powerful that that's the first thing people want to shut down when there's fascism on the horizon." •Writing creates change: "Art and writing can literally shift people's consciousness, their awareness. It can create a sense of humanity, of empathy, of understanding, of connection that is threatening to people who don't want a world like that." •Political power: "It can shift, it can become a political shift." •Writing can be empowering whether it's journaling, book writing, articles, or copywriting On the Creative Process •Lanier emphasizes the importance of being in flow and alignment while creating •"The best part is when you are in the flow and you are aligned and you know that something good, not necessarily important, but good and important is coming through." •The value is in the process: "You had that moment in alignment that is far more important than the outcome." •"It is very hard not to live in the outcomes. I mean, we're just human." •Balance needed: As artists, the creative meditation is valuable, but if it's your livelihood, you also need to consider practical outcomes •Writing and art are forms of meditation and ways to get out of the daily grind while serving a purpose On Being a Writer •Shared quote: "A writer is someone who basically must be left alone to write, but wants a cult following." •"You gotta get out and do the dog and pony show if you get a cult following." •"I need a lot of time to myself, but if it's only for myself, what good is it?" Suggestions for Listeners For Aspiring Writers 1.Learn on the job - A humanities education teaches you how to learn; apply that skill to whatever work you pursue 2.Start writing - Take a breath, center your energy, and let it flow through you 3.Keep the spirit of play - Try new techniques and approaches without pressure 4.Value the creative process - The moment of alignment and flow is more important than the outcome 5.Balance solitude and sharing - Writers need alone time to create, but must also share their work with the world For Women and Career Development 1.Learn to negotiate pay early - Your first job's salary impacts your entire career and retirement 2.Don't be afraid to talk about money - Overcome the discomfort around discussing compensation 3.Advocate for yourself - Lilly's story shows the importance of standing up for fair treatment 4.Share stories - Especially share Lilly Ledbetter's story with other women who need to know how her perseverance is still helping everyone today   For Personal Growth 1.Trust your gut instincts - When you know something is important, pursue it 2.Gather your courage - Even when someone hangs up on you (literally or figuratively), call back 3.Stay open to the universe - Sometimes the best opportunities come in unexpected ways 4.Use creativity as empowerment - Whether through journaling, writing, or any form of expression, creativity can shift consciousness   For Supporting the Arts 1.Recognize the power of art - The arts can create empathy, understanding, and connection 2.Support artists and writers - Their work is essential for maintaining a vibrant, empathetic society 3.Understand why arts are threatened - When fascism is on the horizon, art and writing are the first things shut down because they threaten oppressive systems Where to Find Lanier Isom •Website: lanierisam.com (see all her work and articles) •Instagram: @LanerIso •Substack: "A Little Bit of This and That" -  •Other work: Al Jazeera, LA Times, Huffington Post, Salvation South, The Bitter Southerner, and frequent contributor to Inside Climate News Awards and Recognition •Alabama Library Association Nonfiction Award •2023 Fellowship from the Alabama State Council on the Arts •Awards from Alabama Media Professionals and the National Federation of Press Women Call to Action •Watch the film Lilly (available on Amazon) •Read Grace and Grit by Lanier Isom •Share Lilly Ledbetter's story with other women •Follow Lanier on Substack for more insights on writing, social justice, and Alabama stories •Support the arts and recognize their power to create social change   Schedule a Spiritual Upgrade Breakthrough Call and let's talk about your Soul's purpose.  "The world needs your creativity." - Terri Ann Heiman  

The US federal government is closed for business. Democrats and Republicans in Congress failed to agree on a budget to keep the government open. But over two million federal workers who will go without a paycheck during negotiations have a new worry: will President Donald Trump use the shutdown to eliminate some of their jobs permanently? The Take is nominated for the Signal Awards in the Best Daily Podcast category. While we wait for the judges' decisions, you can help us win the listeners' vote. Vote for The Take for Best Daily Podcast In this episode: Heidi Zhou-Castro (@HeidiZhouCastro), Al Jazeera English Correspondent Episode credits: This episode was produced by Melanie Marich, Sarí el-Khalili, and Tracie Hunte with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Amy Walters, Kisaa Zehra, Farhan Rafid, and our host, Malika Bilal. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Pete Hegseth, a Fox News anchor turned Secretary of Defense, summoned US military leaders from around the world to present a new, “anti-woke” vision for the military – one without transgender troops, “fat” generals, or beards. Then, he closed with a prayer. It’s all part of a long-running mission to end diversity measures and push forward a Christian nationalist agenda in the US armed forces The Take is nominated for the Signal Awards in the Best Daily Podcast category. While we wait for the judges' decisions, you can help us win the listeners' vote. Vote for The Take for Best Daily Podcast In this episode: Ben Makuch, National Security Reporter Episode credits: This episode was produced by Tamara Khandaker, Sarí el-Khalili, and Haleema Shah with Manny Panaretos, Duha Mosaad, Amy Walters, Farhan Rafid, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Your daily news in under three minutes. At Al Jazeera Podcasts, we want to hear from you, our listeners. So, please head to https://www.aljazeera.com/survey and tell us your thoughts about this show and other Al Jazeera podcasts. It only takes a few minutes! Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube