Podcasts about Jian

On this episode of Roqe, Jian opens with an essay titled “Beware the Regime Narratives in Western Media.” As the conflict surrounding Iran continues, Jian examines how Islamic Republic propaganda can travel through Western media ecosystems - and how narratives amplified abroad can eventually be used to influence audiences inside Iran. He looks at several examples currently circulating in Western coverage - from the discussion around Mojtaba Khamenei and regime succession, to the claim that the Iranian revolution has faded because people have not returned to the streets during the bombing campaign, to the repeated assertion that there is no opposition leadership. Later in the episode, Jian speaks with Germany-based researcher and political analyst Forouq Canaani, joining from Munich. Their conversation explores: the war so far the regime's disinformation tactics how narratives move between Iran, the diaspora, and Western media the question of succession and whether the conditions for a new uprising inside Iran may be emerging. This episode is supported by: Avoca Chocolates https://avocachocolates.com

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Ascending Together: Discovering Bonds on a Huangshan Hike Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-03-13-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 在一个阳光明媚的春天早晨，公司组织了一次黄山登山团建活动。En: On a sunny spring morning, the company organized a team-building hiking trip to Huangshan.Zh: 山间小道两侧开满了五颜六色的鲜花，空气中弥漫着新鲜的泥土气息。En: The mountain paths were lined with colorful flowers, and the air was filled with the fresh scent of earth.Zh: 连是个勤奋但内向的人，她喜欢大自然。En: Lian, a diligent but introverted person, loved nature.Zh: 然而，对于公司组织的团建活动，她总有些犹豫。En: However, she always felt hesitant about company-organized team-building events.Zh: 今天的活动，她只希望能静静地欣赏山间的美丽。En: For today's activity, she only hoped to quietly appreciate the mountain's beauty.Zh: 团队的领队建，性格开朗，总是努力让活动变得有趣、吸引人。En: The team leader, Jian, was cheerful and always tried to make events interesting and engaging.Zh: 他早早地到了山脚，使用活泼的语调鼓励大家积极参与。En: He arrived at the foot of the mountain early, using a lively tone to encourage everyone to participate actively.Zh: 新人梅也在这次活动中。En: The newcomer, Mei, was also part of this event.Zh: 她热情又友好，希望能迅速融入团队，给大家留下良好的印象。En: Enthusiastic and friendly, she hoped to quickly blend into the team and make a good impression on everyone.Zh: 沿着山路前行，小溪潺潺，树叶沙沙作响。En: As they proceeded along the mountain path, a brook babbled, and leaves rustled.Zh: 团建活动充满了小组游戏和合作任务。En: The team-building activity was filled with group games and cooperative tasks.Zh: 连悄悄走在队伍的后面，更多地关注自然，而不是活动。En: Lian quietly walked at the back of the group, focusing more on nature than the activity.Zh: 突然，前方的圆滑石块使队伍遭遇小险情。En: Suddenly, a slippery rock ahead caused a minor incident for the group.Zh: 建号召大家团结一致，保证人身安全。En: Jian called for everyone to unite and ensure personal safety.Zh: 可是有一个同事被困在了滑坡的边缘，情况紧急。En: However, one colleague was trapped at the edge of a landslide, and the situation was urgent.Zh: 连沉默了一会儿，在心里一番挣扎后，她走了上去。En: Lian stayed silent for a moment, struggling internally before stepping up.Zh: 她动用自己的知识指导大家稳住同事，用手中的登山杖协助。En: She used her knowledge to guide everyone to stabilize the colleague, assisting with her trekking pole.Zh: 同事们都听从她的指挥，连心跳加速，生怕出错。En: Her colleagues followed her instructions, and Lian's heart raced, afraid of making a mistake.Zh: 经过一番努力，团队合力成功地帮助了被困的同事。En: After some effort, the team successfully helped the trapped colleague with everyone's combined efforts.Zh: 大家都舒了一口气，拍手庆贺这次合作的成功。En: They all breathed a sigh of relief, clapping to celebrate the successful cooperation.Zh: 这次经历让连发现，团队合作可以像大自然般美丽。En: This experience made Lian realize that teamwork could be as beautiful as nature itself.Zh: 她渐渐融入到队伍中，与大家分享她的所见所感。En: She gradually integrated into the group, sharing her insights and feelings with everyone.Zh: 黄山的旅程在这次意外中添加了温暖的回忆。En: The journey to Huangshan added warm memories through this unexpected incident.Zh: 沿途的花藤仿佛在为连和她的同事们的成长而绽放。En: The flowering vines along the way seemed to bloom for the growth of Lian and her colleagues.Zh: 回程的路上，连抬头微笑，感受到她从未预料的温暖和友谊。En: On the way back, Lian looked up with a smile, feeling an unexpected warmth and friendship.Zh: 她心中明白，团队的力量，是值得珍视的另一种美景。En: She understood in her heart that the power of a team is another beautiful landscape worth cherishing. Vocabulary Words:diligent: 勤奋introverted: 内向hesitant: 犹豫cheerful: 开朗engaging: 吸引人blend: 融入impression: 印象brook: 小溪babbled: 潺潺rustled: 沙沙作响slippery: 圆滑incident: 险情unite: 团结landslide: 滑坡urgent: 紧急stabilize: 稳住trekking pole: 登山杖breathed: 舒了一口气cooperation: 合作insights: 所见所感scent: 气息appreciate: 欣赏clapping: 拍手memories: 回忆vine: 花藤bloom: 绽放warmth: 温暖cherishing: 珍视landscape: 美景struggling: 挣扎

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Spark of Inspiration: A Lantern Festival Tale of Connection Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-03-10-22-34-01-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 西湖边上，春天的气息扑面而来，彩灯点缀在树枝上，灯光倒映在湖水里，显得格外迷人。En: By the side of Xihu, the essence of spring fills the air.Zh: 这里正在举办一个盛大的灯笼节，四周充满了欢声笑语，空气中弥漫着食物和花香的气息。En: Colorful lights adorn the branches, and their reflection dances on the lake, making it exceptionally enchanting.Zh: 在这热闹的节日中，李莉，一个充满激情的艺术系学生，正忙着寻找灵感。En: A grand lantern festival is being held here, and the surroundings are filled with laughter and joy.Zh: 她四处张望，希望能抓住那个完美的瞬间，她想通过自己的画作来展现节日的魔力。En: The air is fragrant with the scent of food and flowers.Zh: 然而，热闹的人群和五光十色的灯笼让她有些不知所措。En: Amidst this lively festival, Lili, a passionate student from the art department, is busily searching for inspiration.Zh: 同一时间，魏，一个内向的科技工作者，静静地漫步在西湖旁。En: She looks around, hoping to capture that perfect moment, wanting to showcase the festival's magic through her artwork.Zh: 他用相机捕捉这些美丽的画面，希望能找到心灵的平静。En: However, the bustling crowd and the vibrant lanterns leave her somewhat overwhelmed.Zh: 他不是个善于社交的人，但这夜的美景让他想走出自己的小世界。En: At the same time, Wei, an introverted tech worker, is quietly strolling by the lakeside.Zh: 魏的好朋友，建，总是鼓励他多尝试新的社交活动。En: Using his camera, he captures these beautiful scenes, hoping to find peace of mind.Zh: 于是，鼓起勇气的魏决定走出舒适区，他注意到远处那位显得有些苦恼的李莉。En: He is not one to socialize easily, but the night's stunning views prompt him to step out of his small world.Zh: 她的烦恼触动了魏，他想帮她找到灵感。En: Wei's good friend, Jian, always encourages him to try new social activities.Zh: “你好，我叫魏。En: Thus, mustering courage, Wei decides to step out of his comfort zone.Zh: ”魏走到李莉身边，带着些许紧张，“你想试试这个角度吗？En: He notices Li Li, who seems a bit troubled in the distance.Zh: 我可以帮你拍张照片，或许能给你一些灵感。En: Her frustration moves Wei, and he wants to help her find inspiration.Zh: ”李莉看着魏，微笑着说：“谢谢你，我是李莉。En: “Hello, I'm Wei.” Wei approaches Li Li with a hint of nervousness, “Would you like to try this angle?Zh: 我一直想找个特别的角度，但总觉得缺了点什么。En: I can help you take a photo; maybe it will spark some inspiration.” Li Li looks at Wei, smiling, “Thank you, I'm Li Li.Zh: ”两人走到湖边一个宁静的小角落。En: I've been trying to find a unique angle but always feel like something's missing.” The two of them walk to a quiet spot by the lake.Zh: 湖面映着星星点点的灯光，魏用相机捕捉下这动人的一刻。En: The lake mirrors the twinkling lights, and Wei captures this captivating moment with his camera.Zh: 这张照片成为了李莉的一次灵感迸发，她终于找到了她想要的画面。En: This photo becomes a burst of inspiration for Li Li, and she finally finds the image she desires.Zh: 在这场灯笼节上，两人分享了一个独特的瞬间。En: At this lantern festival, the two share a unique moment.Zh: 李莉用这幅画记录了他们共同的时光，而魏则因为这次勇敢的跨出，感受到人与人之间温暖的连接。En: Li Li documents their shared time with her painting, while Wei, through this courageous step forward, experiences the warmth of human connection.Zh: 随着夜的深沉，灯笼渐渐熄灭，但李莉和魏的心却愈发明亮。En: As the night deepens, the lanterns gradually dim, but the hearts of Li Li and Wei grow brighter.Zh: 在这春日的西湖边，他们不仅分享了一个美好的夜晚，也开始了一段新的故事。En: By Xihu on this spring night, they not only share a beautiful evening but also begin a new story.Zh: 李莉学会了欣赏生活中的每个瞬间，而魏也打开了心扉，迎接新的友谊。En: Li Li learns to appreciate every moment in life, while Wei opens his heart to welcome new friendships. Vocabulary Words:essence: 气息adorn: 点缀enchanting: 迷人lantern: 灯笼fragrant: 弥漫bustling: 热闹overwhelmed: 不知所措introverted: 内向strolling: 漫步capture: 捕捉socialize: 社交encourages: 鼓励mustering: 鼓起comfort zone: 舒适区troubled: 苦恼frustration: 烦恼hint: 些许unique: 独特mirrors: 映twinkling: 星星点点captivating: 动人burst: 迸发appreciate: 欣赏document: 记录courageous: 勇敢step forward: 跨出connection: 连接dim: 渐渐熄灭hearts: 心friendships: 友谊

On this episode of Roqe, Jian Ghomeshi speaks with Iranian-British journalist Bozorgmehr Sharafedin, head of digital news at Iran International. Joining Jian from Washington, Sharafedin discusses the rapidly unfolding situation surrounding Iran as the conflict enters its ninth day and global commentary intensifies. Their conversation explores: the emergence of Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader whether Western media narratives are misreading events inside Iran why many Iranians have not taken to the streets while bombs are falling the potential impact of targeted strikes against IRGC infrastructure and the possibility that the regime - or some version of it - could survive the current crisis. Jian also opens the episode with an essay titled “The Mullas Are Not Anti-Imperialist Heros,” challenging the tendency in some Western political circles to romanticize the Islamic Republic as a form of anti-imperialist resistance. This episode is supported by: Famluxy https://famluxy.com (https://famluxy.com/) Stellar Law https://stellarlaw.ca (https://stellarlaw.ca/)

On this episode of Roqe, Jian opens with an essay about the brave Iranians who took to the streets in recent weeks demanding regime change - and the promise many in the diaspora made to stand with them. As war imagery dominates the headlines and debates grow louder around intervention, Jian reminds listeners that history is rarely tidy - and that the courage of those inside Iran should remain at the center of the conversation. Jian then speaks with Iranian-American lawyer and commentator Ari Aramesh, joining from Washington D.C. As U.S. military action against the Islamic Republic intensifies, the discussion focuses on a central question - will intervention actually bring change to Iran? Or could it entrench the regime further? They discuss the legality of the intervention, political reactions inside the United States, and whether weakening the regime's military capabilities could create the conditions for Iranians inside the country to rise again. Guest: Ari Aramesh - managing attorney at Whitcomb Selinsky and frequent commentator on CNN, BBC, Fox News and Al Jazeera English. Episode 421 of Roqe - part of the Iran Risesseries. This episode is supported by: Famluxy https://famluxy.com (https://famluxy.com/) Use code ROQE to receive 40% off the Glory Days collection celebrating Iranian heritage.

With Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei killed following a joint United States–Israel military operation inside Iran, the political and strategic landscape has shifted dramatically. What comes next? Jian sits down with: Shayan Samii - U.S. national security analyst and strategic communications expert. Behnam Ben Taleblu - Senior Director of the Iran Program at FDD and specialist on Iran's security apparatus. They discuss: Whether this is a genuine turning point If celebration is appropriate for long-suffering Iranians based on the death of Khamenei, but despite there being a long way to go Whether Washington and Jerusalem have a real “day after” plan The risk of a clerical power vacuum The role of Prince Reza Pahlavi and the opposition The regime's regional retaliation The episode opens with an essay from Jian outlining 4 reasons a free Iran could transform global security, economics, migration patterns, and the Middle East's long-term trajectory. This episode is supported by: Stellar Law - stellarlaw.ca Avoca Chocolates - avocachocolates.com Follow Jian on Instagram @JianGhomeshi Meezoon basheen.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang

Audio Summary of the March 2026 Issue of JACC: Asia, by Dr. Jian'an Wang.

On this edition of Roqe, Jian and guests examine the growing wave of disinformation surrounding Iran in Western media and public discourse. Joining from Vancouver, Sadaf Yasini, and from Ottawa, longtime Roqe contributor Pegah Ganji, the conversation explores: The scale and discipline of diaspora demonstrations Why Western audiences struggle to process the demand for regime change How anti-war rhetoric can obscure the reality Iranians are already living And what practical steps the diaspora can take to educate non-Iranians Jian opens with an essay urging Iranians in the diaspora not just to speak to each other - but to reach out beyond their own communities. Silence creates informational vacuums. Vacuums invite distortion. Later, Jian speaks with Daniel Diba, who recounts his imprisonment and torture by the Islamic Republic and explains why he believes it is critical to speak out now. This episode was recorded on February 26, 2026. This episode is supported by: Famluxy - famluxy.com Stellar Law - stellarlaw.ca

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Under Water Lanterns: Yilin's Journey of Courage and Connection Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-02-27-23-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 冬天的上海，我们随着一群学生走进了繁忙的水族馆。En: In wintery Shanghai, we entered a bustling aquarium with a group of students.Zh: 鱼儿在水中游弋，光影舞动，像是海底的彩灯。En: Fish swam in the water, light and shadows danced, resembling colorful lights beneath the sea.Zh: 外面，节日的灯笼照亮街道，庆祝着即将到来的元宵节。En: Outside, festive lanterns lit up the streets, celebrating the upcoming Yuanxiao Festival.Zh: 依琳是一名好奇但安静的学生，她极爱海洋生物，但对周围的人群有些不安。En: Yilin was a curious yet quiet student who loved marine life but felt uneasy around crowds.Zh: 今天是学校的参观活动，她希望能在水族馆找到灵感，为她的社会研究项目加分。En: Today was a school field trip, and she hoped to find inspiration at the aquarium that would enhance her social studies project.Zh: 走在展馆中，依琳看着各种色彩斑斓的鱼群，鱼儿们似乎在玩捉迷藏。En: As she walked through the exhibits, Yilin watched various vibrantly colored fish, which seemed to be playing hide and seek.Zh: 她喜欢这些生物散发的宁静，但同时，她又感到与同学之间的距离。En: She appreciated the tranquility these creatures exuded, yet sensed a distance between her and her classmates.Zh: 在水母展区，依琳停下脚步。En: In the jellyfish exhibit area, Yilin paused.Zh: 透明的水母在水中漂荡，仿佛舞者般优雅。En: Transparent jellyfish drifted in the water, graceful like dancers.Zh: 但她的目光很快转向了不远处的美和健，他们正在讨论这些生物的奇妙特性。En: But her gaze soon shifted to Mei and Jian, who were discussing the wonderful characteristics of these creatures.Zh: “也许，我可以加入他们的讨论。”依琳心想，心中却仍有一丝迟疑。En: "Maybe I can join their discussion," Yilin thought, though a trace of hesitation lingered in her heart.Zh: 然而她记得，水母在中国文化中象征好运和平安。En: She recalled, however, that in Chinese culture, jellyfish symbolize good luck and peace.Zh: 而元宵节，正是一个庆祝和希望的节日。En: And Yuanxiao Festival is indeed a celebration of hope and good fortune.Zh: 鼓起勇气，她走上前对美和健说：“你知道吗，水母在中国文化中象征好运，就像元宵节的灯笼，可以带来光明和希望。”En: Summoning courage, she approached Mei and Jian and said, "Did you know that in Chinese culture, jellyfish symbolize good luck, just like the lanterns of the 元宵节, bringing light and hope?"Zh: 美和健被依琳的话吸引，眼睛一亮。En: Mei was intrigued by Yilin's words, her eyes lighting up.Zh: 美说：“真的吗？我不知道这个，说得太好了！”En: "Really? I didn't know that, you explained it so well!"Zh: 健也附和道：“这样说起来，水母真的像灯笼一样在水中闪烁呢。”En: Jian agreed: "Thinking about it that way, jellyfish do resemble lanterns flickering in the water."Zh: 从短暂的沉默中，依琳的心跳仿佛漏了一拍。En: In the brief silence, Yilin's heart seemed to skip a beat.Zh: 接下来的对话热烈而自然，三人分享了更多关于海洋和文化的故事。En: The ensuing conversation was lively and natural, with the three sharing more stories about the ocean and culture.Zh: 时间悄然流逝，夜幕降临。走出水族馆，他们被外面的灯火吸引，心中充满温暖。En: Time quietly slipped by, and as night fell, they were drawn to the lights outside, feeling warmth in their hearts.Zh: 这次经历让依琳明白，分享自己的热情可以带来意想不到的友谊。En: This experience made Yilin realize that sharing her passions could lead to unexpected friendships.Zh: 她不仅找到了项目的灵感，也找到了新的友谊和归属感。En: She not only found inspiration for her project but also discovered new friendships and a sense of belonging.Zh: 对依琳来说，这一天，她不仅了解了更多的海洋生物，还发现了勇敢表达自我的快乐。En: To Yilin, on this day, she not only learned more about marine life but also discovered the joy of bravely expressing herself.Zh: 灯笼在夜空中摇曳，仿佛祝愿着她新的开始。En: The lanterns swayed in the night sky, as if wishing her a new beginning. Vocabulary Words:wintery: 冬天的bustling: 繁忙的aquarium: 水族馆festive: 节日的lanterns: 灯笼curious: 好奇social studies: 社会研究exhibits: 展馆vibrantly: 色彩斑斓tranquility: 宁静transparent: 透明的drifted: 漂荡graceful: 优雅hesitation: 迟疑symbolize: 象征flickering: 闪烁ensuing: 接下来lively: 热烈natural: 自然quietly: 悄然warmth: 温暖unexpected: 意想不到friendships: 友谊belonging: 归属感expressing: 表达swayed: 摇曳resembling: 像是inspiration: 灵感celebration: 庆祝characters: 特性

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Discovering Insights at Longmen: Mei's Artistic Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-02-25-08-38-20-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 梅和健在一个寒冷的冬日早上来到龙门石窟。En: Mei and Jian arrived at the Longmen Grottoes on a cold winter morning.Zh: 梅裹紧大衣，抬头望着这些雄伟的石刻。En: Mei wrapped her coat tightly around her and looked up at these majestic stone carvings.Zh: 龙江两岸的红灯笼在微风中轻轻摇晃，仿佛在欢迎每一位到访者。En: The red lanterns on both banks of the Long River swayed gently in the breeze, as if welcoming each visitor.Zh: 这里既古老又神秘，是他们此行的重要部分。En: This place, both ancient and mysterious, was an important part of their journey.Zh: 梅正处于研究生阶段，她的论文围绕佛教艺术展开。En: Mei, currently pursuing her graduate studies, was focusing her thesis on Buddhist art.Zh: 作为旅游向导的健是她的好朋友，也是此行的向导。En: Jian, a tour guide and her good friend, was also their guide on this trip.Zh: 他们慢慢地走进这片神圣的土地。En: They slowly walked into this sacred land.Zh: 健指着一个巨大的释迦牟尼佛像说：“这尊佛像是北魏时期雕刻的，具有极高的艺术价值。En: Jian pointed to a huge statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and said, "This statue was carved during the Northern Wei period and holds immense artistic value."Zh: ”梅点点头，仔细地观察着每一个细节。En: Mei nodded, carefully observing each detail.Zh: 她感到有些焦虑，担心无法找到新的灵感。En: She felt a bit anxious, worried about not finding new inspiration.Zh: 健注意到她的担忧，轻声说：“有时真正的发现不在于新，而在于你自己的理解。En: Noticing her concern, Jian softly said, "Sometimes true discoveries aren't about new things, but about your own understanding."Zh: ”梅决定不再过于聚焦于总结学术数据。En: Mei decided not to focus too much on compiling academic data.Zh: 她开始放慢脚步，试图感受这个地方的气息和声音。En: She began to slow her pace, trying to feel the spirit and sounds of the place.Zh: 晶莹的雪花轻轻落在雕刻的石头上，似乎在诉说千年以前的故事。En: The crystalline snowflakes gently fell on the carved stones, seemingly telling stories from a thousand years ago.Zh: 当他们到达一个小型洞窟时，梅停下脚步。En: When they reached a small cave, Mei paused.Zh: 这个洞窟内有一尊小佛像，略有磨损但依然充满慈悲。En: Inside the cave was a small Buddha statue, slightly worn but still full of compassion.Zh: 她凝视着佛像的眼神，忽然感到一种从未有过的平和。En: She gazed into the eyes of the statue and suddenly felt an unprecedented peace.Zh: “我想我找到了，”梅轻声说道。En: "I think I've found it," Mei whispered.Zh: 她不再需要寻找所谓的“新发现”，而是要表达她自己对这些艺术品的理解和想法。En: She no longer needed to search for so-called "new discoveries" but rather needed to express her own understanding and thoughts about these works of art.Zh: 踏上返回路径时，梅的心情变得轻松而明亮。En: As they stepped onto the path back, Mei's mood became light and bright.Zh: 她知道，无论是学术还是生活，关键在于融合知识与自我感悟。En: She knew that whether in academics or life, the key lay in merging knowledge with personal insights.Zh: 冬日的阳光洒在地面，片片雪花在阳光下闪耀。En: The winter sunshine spilled onto the ground, with snowflakes shimmering in the light.Zh: 梅和健并肩走着，向前方的红灯笼走去，那是走过一年努力，又迎来新希望的象征。En: Mei and Jian walked side by side toward the red lanterns ahead, symbolizing the end of a year of effort and the ushering in of new hope.Zh: 这次旅行不仅给梅带来了论文的启示，更重要的是，她找到了自己的声音。En: This journey not only provided Mei with insights for her thesis but, more importantly, she found her own voice.Zh: 明年的灯节，她将以全新的视角来审视自己的艺术旅程。En: By the Lantern Festival next year, she would view her artistic journey from a brand-new perspective.Zh: 她的心仿佛与千年前的艺术家和信仰者相连，为她的论文注入了鲜活的灵魂。En: Her heart seemed connected to the artists and believers from a thousand years ago, breathing vibrant life into her thesis. Vocabulary Words:grottoes: 石窟majestic: 雄伟lanterns: 灯笼mysterious: 神秘graduate: 研究生pursuing: 处于thesis: 论文sacred: 神圣statue: 雕像artistic: 艺术value: 价值observe: 观察anxious: 焦虑concern: 担忧inspiration: 灵感crystalline: 晶莹carved: 雕刻compassion: 慈悲unprecedented: 从未有过discoveries: 发现insights: 感悟shimmering: 闪耀perspective: 视角believers: 信仰者vibrant: 鲜活whispered: 轻声说道ushering: 迎来endeavors: 努力landscapes: 土地etched: 刻

As student protests surge across Iran, universities are once again becoming epicenters of open defiance. In this episode of Roqe, we focus on the courage of Iranian students demonstrating right now - chanting forbidden slogans, confronting repression on their own campuses, and absorbing immense personal risk in the face of an authoritarian regime. Jian opens with a powerful essay addressed directly to Iran's students. He is then joined by Dr. Sepehr Vakil, associate professor at Northwestern University and author of Revolutionary Engineers, for a wide-ranging conversation that connects Iran's long history of student activism to the present moment. Together, they explore why students so often move first, what today's campus uprisings reveal about the strength and fragility of the Islamic Republic, and what this latest wave of student courage may bode for a revolution aimed at a free Iran. This episode is supported by: Avoca Chocolates https://avocachocolates.com

In Episode 417 of Roqe, Jian challenges the sudden rise of Western “anti-war” rhetoric on Iran by reframing the reality on the ground. Iranians are not debating a future conflict - they are already living through one, as the Islamic Republic continues its campaign of repression, arrests, and mass killing. The opening essay explores why many Iranians now support intervention - not lightly, not casually, but after decades of failed reform, negotiation, and restraint. The episode then turns to a global panel discussion examining the fallout from the Global Day of Action demonstrations, Prince Reza Pahlavi's presence at the Munich Security Conference, and the regime's escalating crackdown inside Iran. Panelists analyze whether the Islamic Republic can maintain power, what intervention actually means, and why Western audiences continue to misunderstand Iranian demands. Guests: Ali Hamedani - London Ardeshir Zarezadeh - Toronto Mahdi Ghodsi - Vienna Recorded February 19, 2026. Sponsors: @StellarLawTO @AvocaChocolates

This episode of Roqe takes stock of an extraordinary Global Day of Action for a Free Iran, with major demonstrations in Toronto, Los Angeles, and Munich - and coordinated rallies across the diaspora following a call initiated by Prince Reza Pahlavi. Jian is joined by four voices who were there: Farnoush Hamadian in Munich Laleh Tangsiri, joining from London after attending the Munich rally Navid Negahban in Los Angeles Pegah Ganji in Toronto They reflect on the scale, discipline, and political significance of the weekend - and what this moment could mean for Iranians inside Iran and around the world. Jian opens the episode with an essay addressing Christiane Amanpour and the criticism surrounding her recent interview with Prince Reza Pahlavi - arguing the issue is not tough questions, but uneven journalism. This episode is brought to you with the support of Avoca Chocolates https://avocachocolates.com

Jian opens Episode 415 of Roqe – Iran Rises with a sober assessment of the United Nations, arguing that despite its language and ideals, it is structurally incapable of protecting Iranian civilians or advancing the revolution now underway. As tens of thousands of Iranian families grieve victims of an ongoing massacre, outrage is growing over the UN's continued engagement with representatives of the Islamic Republic. This episode asks a difficult but necessary question: where should Iranians place their energy, pressure, and hope now? Jian is joined by: Lisa Daftari, Iranian-American foreign policy analyst, journalist, and founder of The Foreign Desk Shayan Samii, U.S. national security analyst and expert in strategic communications Bahador Alast, Iranian-Canadian engineer and widely followed cultural and language commentator The conversation explores: Why anger toward the UN is intensifying among Iranians worldwide Whether the UN functions as protection or symbolism during mass atrocities The meaning of “intervention” and what actually helps people on the ground The role of global protests in cities like Toronto, Los Angeles, and Munich Recorded February 12, 2026. This episode of Roqe is brought to you with the support of: Avoca Chocolates – avocachocolates.com Stellar Law – stellarlaw.ca

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Unlocking Legacy: Mei's Journey to Family Honor and Hope Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-02-10-08-38-20-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 北京的冬天寒冷而凛冽，满是白雪覆盖的街道。En: The winter in Beijing is cold and piercing, with streets covered in white snow.Zh: 梅站在一座废弃的仓库前，内心感到一种莫名的紧张和期待。En: Mei stood before an abandoned warehouse, feeling an inexplicable mix of tension and anticipation.Zh: 在她眼前的，是一个漫长的旅程的终点，也是家族命运的新开始。En: Before her was the end of a long journey and the beginning of a new chapter in her family's destiny.Zh: 仓库的门生锈又笨重，她用力推开。En: The warehouse door was rusty and heavy; she pushed it open with effort.Zh: 进入仓库后，阴冷的空气扑面而来，灰尘在高高的窗户下飞舞，地上结了一层薄冰。En: Inside, the cold air hit her face, dust danced under the tall windows, and a thin layer of ice covered the ground.Zh: 四周安静地只有自己的呼吸声，梅的心情逐渐平静下来。En: The only sound around was her own breathing, gradually calming her mood.Zh: 她知道，她必须在春节到来前，找到祖传的传家宝。En: She knew she had to find the inherited family heirloom before the arrival of the Spring Festival.Zh: 梅在心中默默祈祷，希望一切顺利。En: Mei silently prayed for everything to go smoothly.Zh: 她沿着墙边，小心翼翼地迈步，良好的家庭教育让她明白，这件宝物关系到家族的荣誉。En: She carefully walked along the wall, knowing from her good family upbringing that this treasure was linked to her family's honor.Zh: 很快，她发现了一个旧储物箱，却怎么也找不到打开它的钥匙。En: Soon, she discovered an old storage box but couldn't find the key to open it.Zh: 时间一分一秒流逝，梅焦急不已。En: As time ticked by, Mei grew increasingly anxious.Zh: 突然间，一个身影出现在身后。En: Suddenly, a figure appeared behind her.Zh: 是一位戴着围巾的年轻人，他自我介绍说：En: It was a young man wearing a scarf.Zh: “我叫建，是一名锁匠。”En: He introduced himself, saying, ""My name is Jian, and I am a locksmith."Zh: 梅看到了希望。En: Mei saw a glimmer of hope.Zh: 她简要向建说明情况，请求他的帮助。En: She quickly explained the situation to Jian and asked for his help.Zh: 建仔细研究了储物箱，眉头紧锁。En: Jian studied the storage box carefully, his brow furrowed.Zh: 经过短暂的沉思，他拿出工具箱，开始认真地工作。En: After a brief moment of contemplation, he took out his toolbox and began to work meticulously.Zh: 梅紧张地在一旁注视着，她知道，这一刻，她不仅依赖自己的努力，更依赖建的专业技艺。En: Mei watched nervously from the side, knowing that at this moment, she was relying not only on her own efforts but also on Jian's professional skills.Zh: 时间飞快流逝，窗外的天色逐渐暗下来，距离新年倒计时的钟声越来越近。En: Time flew by, and as the sky grew darker outside, the countdown to the New Year approached.Zh: 终于，建打开了箱子。En: Finally, Jian opened the box.Zh: 他和梅都松了一口气。En: Both he and Mei breathed a sigh of relief.Zh: 里面闪烁着令人炫目的金属光辉，是梅家族的传家之宝。En: Inside, there was a dazzling metallic luster — the family heirloom of Mei's family.Zh: 梅小心翼翼地把它捧在手中，泪水在眼中打转。En: She carefully held it in her hands, tears welling in her eyes.Zh: 带着建的帮助下获得的信心，梅意识到，合作和信任是成功的关键。En: With the confidence gained from Jian's help, Mei realized that cooperation and trust were the keys to success.Zh: 当她和建一起走出那阴冷仓库时，她心中充满了感激与欣慰。En: As she walked out of the cold warehouse with Jian, her heart was filled with gratitude and relief.Zh: 春节的鞭炮声已经响起，梅知道，她将带着这一珍贵的家族传承，与家人团聚，共度一个幸福的新年。En: The sound of firecrackers for the Spring Festival was already echoing; Mei knew she would reunite with her family with this precious family legacy and spend a joyous New Year together.Zh: 在回家的路上，梅心底的一个声音告诉自己：无论遇到什么困难，她都不会孤军奋战。En: On the way home, a voice inside Mei's heart told her that no matter what difficulties lie ahead, she would not face them alone.Zh: 家族的期待不再是沉重的负担，而是一种流淌在血液中的责任和荣誉。En: Her family's expectations were no longer a heavy burden but a responsibility and honor flowing in her veins.Zh: 这个春节，梅不仅找回了祖传的宝物，也找到了自己的力量与自信。En: This Spring Festival, Mei not only reclaimed the family heirloom but also found her strength and confidence. Vocabulary Words:piercing: 凛冽abandoned: 废弃inexplicable: 莫名destiny: 命运rusty: 生锈dust: 灰尘layer: 层heirloom: 传家宝anticipation: 期待tension: 紧张upbringing: 家庭教育honor: 荣誉anxious: 焦急figure: 身影scarf: 围巾locksmith: 锁匠glimmer: 希望toolbox: 工具箱meticulously: 认真地contemplation: 沉思countdown: 倒计时luster: 光辉gratitude: 感激reunite: 团聚legacy: 传承joyous: 幸福burden: 负担veins: 血液confidence: 自信responsibility: 责任

On this episode of Roqe – Iran Rises, Jian is joined by Khosro Isfahani, Research Director at the National Union for Democracy in Iran, for a clear-eyed conversation about where the Iranian revolution stands right now, what intervention actually looks like, why the United States continues to negotiate with the Islamic Republic, and what may come next under Donald Trump. The episode then widens into a panel discussion with Picasso Moin in Istanbul and Kamyar Mahinsa in Vancouver, including Kamyar's reflections from the demonstration in Vancouver yesterday, the resilience of Iranians inside the country, growing distractions and infighting in the diaspora, and whether unity is holding at the moment it matters most. Jian opens Episode 414 with a moving essay - “When they arrest the doctors, the regime tells you what it is” - examining the moral meaning of a regime that punishes doctors and medical workers for helping wounded protesters. This episode of Roqe is brought to you with the support of Avoca Chocolates

Jian opens this episode of Roqe with an essay making the case for calling this uprising the Lion and Sun Revolution. He reflects on the Lion and Sun flag being raised in Richmond Hill, Canada, while making one thing unmistakably clear - symbols in the diaspora are never enough. The real revolution is being paid for in blood inside Iran. Still, when a people are fighting to reclaim identity beyond the rulers who define them, symbols matter. Jian is then joined by Salar Gholami - former Iranian national team boxer and key organizer behind the historic Iranian-Canadian demonstrations in Toronto. They discuss how these massive rallies were built, how unity was maintained, what's happening inside Iran, and what comes next as February 14th approaches. This episode of Roqe is supported by: Avoca Chocolates avocachocolates.com Stellar Law stellarlaw.ca

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Snowfall Sparks Unforgettable Lantern Festival in Shanghai Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-02-06-23-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 在一个银装素裹的冬日，伴随着轻盈的雪花飘落，上海豫园被白雪覆盖。En: On a winter day cloaked in silver, with light snowflakes fluttering down, Shanghai Yu Garden was covered in white snow.Zh: 园内的假山、亭台楼阁在雪的点缀下，显得格外宁静优美。En: The rockeries, pavilions, and towers within the garden, adorned with snow, looked exceptionally serene and beautiful.Zh: 豫园正在紧锣密鼓地准备元宵节灯会。En: Yu Garden was bustling with preparations for the Yuanxiao Festival lantern show.Zh: 丽华，作为负责主灯展示的创意艺术家，在忙碌中感到无比的骄傲和期待。En: Li Hua, as the creative artist responsible for the main lantern display, was feeling immensely proud and excited in the midst of her busy schedule.Zh: 丽华梦想打造一个难以忘怀的灯展，她的设计充满了色彩和希望。En: Li Hua dreamed of creating an unforgettable lantern exhibition, filled with color and hope.Zh: 然而，这场意想不到的降雪给她的计划带来了巨大的威胁。En: However, this unexpected snowfall posed a great threat to her plans.Zh: 纸灯笼是她作品的核心部分，但它们完全经不起这突如其来的雪。En: Paper lanterns were the core of her work, but they couldn't withstand such a sudden snowfall.Zh: 就在她一筹莫展时，健和梅来到她身边。En: Just when she was at a loss, Jian and Mei came to her side.Zh: 健提议：“不如我们使用防水的材料重新制作？En: Jian suggested, "Why don't we remake them using waterproof materials?"Zh: ”梅附和道：“是啊，或许可以尝试一些新的材质，比如塑料或布料。En: Mei agreed, "Yes, perhaps we can try some new materials, like plastic or fabric."Zh: ”丽华凝视着白茫茫的园子，心中渐渐有了主意。En: Li Hua gazed at the snowy garden, and an idea slowly formed in her mind.Zh: 三人分头行事，丽华动员所有人尽快筹措材料。En: The three of them set to work separately, with Li Hua mobilizing everyone to gather materials as quickly as possible.Zh: 在团队的不懈努力下，他们在雪地中创建了全新设计的灯笼。En: Through the team's relentless efforts, they created newly designed lanterns in the snow.Zh: 这些新灯笼不仅抗御严寒，还融入了银色和蓝色的冬季元素，与纯白的雪景相映成趣。En: These new lanterns not only withstood the harsh cold but also incorporated silver and blue winter elements, creating a charming contrast with the pure white snowy landscape.Zh: 元宵节的夜晚，豫园灯火辉煌。En: On the night of the Yuanxiao Festival, Yu Garden was brilliantly illuminated.Zh: 灯笼在雪中熠熠生辉，游客们纷纷感叹不已。En: The lanterns glowed brightly amidst the snow, leaving the visitors amazed.Zh: 谁能想到，这场突如其来的降雪，反而成就了一场别具一格的灯会？En: Who would have thought that this sudden snowfall would instead create a unique lantern festival?Zh: 丽华站在桥头，望着欣赏灯景的游客，心中涌动着满足与快乐。En: Standing at the bridge, Li Hua watched the visitors appreciating the lantern scenes, a sense of satisfaction and joy welling up in her heart.Zh: 她明白了，面对突如其来的挑战，灵活应变、创新才是应对的良策。En: She realized that when faced with unexpected challenges, adaptability and innovation are the best responses.Zh: 困境之中，也孕育着新的机遇。En: Within adversity, new opportunities are also nurtured.Zh: 那一夜，豫园成为了上海冬日里最美的景致之一，丽华和她的团队被赞誉为节日中最亮眼的星星。En: That night, Yu Garden became one of the most beautiful sights in Shanghai during winter, and Li Hua and her team were hailed as the brightest stars of the festival.Zh: 丽华微笑着，心中笃定，再大的难题也阻挡不了她对艺术的热爱与追求。En: Li Hua smiled, confident that no problem could hinder her love and pursuit of art. Vocabulary Words:cloaked: 银装素裹的serene: 宁静的bustling: 紧锣密鼓的immensely: 无比的unforgettable: 难以忘怀的withstand: 经不起relentless: 不懈的illuminated: 灯火辉煌innovation: 创新adversity: 困境hailed: 赞誉fluttering: 飘落adorned: 点缀exhibition: 灯展threat: 威胁mobilizing: 动员incorporated: 融入contrast: 相映成趣resilience: 灵活应变pursuit: 追求stunning: 格外elements: 元素opportunity: 机遇unwavering: 笃定core: 核心部分unexpected: 意想不到的gazed: 凝视endeavors: 努力satisfaction: 满足commended: 称赞

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Jian opens Episode 412 of Roqe – Iran Rises with a forceful opening essay on the power of unity - as Iranians around the world shatter old stereotypes of division and rally around shared symbols, identity, and purpose. He's then joined by Homa Sarshar, revered Iranian-American journalist, author, and cultural figure, for a wide-ranging and deeply informed conversation on why this moment feels different, the evolving role of the diaspora, the silence of Western media, and what meaningful international pressure might actually require. Recorded February 2, 2026. This episode is brought to you with the support of Avoca Chocolates avocachocolates.com

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Finding Home: Mei's Journey of Rediscovery at Xihu Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-01-31-08-38-20-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 西湖冬天的清晨微冷，空气中弥漫着淡淡的桂花香。En: The winter mornings by Xihu are slightly chilly, and the air is filled with a faint osmanthus fragrance.Zh: 梅站在湖边，双手插在口袋里，凝视远方的断桥。En: Mei stands by the lake with her hands in her pockets, gazing at the distant Duanqiao.Zh: 虽然树木光秃秃，但湖边依然热闹，红色的灯笼随风摇曳，人们忙着准备春节。En: Though the trees are bare, the lakeside remains lively with red lanterns swaying in the wind, and people busy preparing for the Spring Festival.Zh: 梅这次回到了故乡，她内心充满疑惑。En: Mei has returned to her hometown, but her heart is full of confusion.Zh: 她羡慕简单的过去，但她的职业生涯却在吸引她走得更远。En: She envies the simplicity of the past, yet her career entices her to venture further.Zh: 梅不知道未来该如何决定。En: Mei does not know how to decide her future.Zh: 就在她冥思苦想的时候，肩上突然被人拍了一下。En: Just as she is deep in thought, someone suddenly taps her on the shoulder.Zh: 转头一看，是简，他依然像以前一样，总是活力四射。En: Turning around, she sees Jian, as energetic as ever.Zh: “梅，好久不见！En: "Mei, long time no see!"Zh: ”他笑着说，“刘也来了。En: he says with a smile.Zh: ”刘从不远处走来，虽然多年未见，他却看起来更加成熟，但仍带着熟悉的微笑。En: "Liu is here too."Zh: “梅，回来真好。En: Liu approaches from a distance.Zh: ”刘说道，眼中充满了温暖。En: Though they haven't seen each other for years, he looks more mature, yet still carries that familiar smile.Zh: 三人一起漫步西湖，面对几年前曾一起走过的小路，梅感到一丝安慰和怀念。En: "Mei, it's good to have you back," Liu says warmly.Zh: 在一盏灯笼的温暖光辉下，梅终于鼓起勇气和他们分享了她的心事。En: The three of them stroll around Xihu, and Mei feels a sense of comfort and nostalgia on the paths they once walked together years ago.Zh: “我不知道该留在这儿还是去别的地方。En: Under the warm glow of a lantern, Mei finally musters the courage to share her thoughts with them.Zh: ”梅说，她的话略显迟疑。En: "I don't know whether to stay here or go somewhere else," Mei says, her words tinged with hesitation.Zh: 简笑着安慰她：“你要相信，不管哪里，只要心有所归，便是你的家。En: Jian smiles and reassures her, "You have to trust that no matter where you are, as long as your heart has a place to call home, it will be your home."Zh: ”刘点头表示同意：“人生总是变化无常，重要的是在变化中找到内心的宁静。En: Liu nods in agreement, saying, "Life is always unpredictable, but what's important is finding inner peace amidst the changes."Zh: ”听着朋友们的建议，梅心中的疑虑开始消散。En: Listening to her friends' advice, Mei's doubts start to dissipate.Zh: 她意识到，家不仅仅是一个地方，而是一种感觉。En: She realizes that home is not just a place, but a feeling.Zh: 带着新的领悟，她决定暂时留在杭州，感受这里的根基。En: With this new understanding, she decides to temporarily stay in Hangzhou and connect with her roots.Zh: 夜色中，梅再次站在湖边，看着湖面上映照的灯光。En: In the evening, Mei stands by the lake again, watching the lantern-lit reflections on the water.Zh: 此刻，她感受到一种前所未有的平和与接受，她明白旅程的一部分便是拥抱变化。En: At this moment, she feels an unprecedented peace and acceptance, understanding that part of the journey is embracing change.Zh: 梅轻轻地微笑，觉得未来不再那样遥不可及。En: Mei smiles gently, no longer feeling that the future is so out of reach.Zh: 西湖的灯火依然明亮，仿佛在为三位朋友的重逢庆贺，也为梅的新开始加油。En: The lights of Xihu remain bright, as if celebrating the reunion of the three friends and cheering for Mei's new beginning. Vocabulary Words:chilly: 微冷faint: 淡淡fragrance: 香gazing: 凝视bare: 光秃秃lanterns: 灯笼swaying: 摇曳envies: 羡慕simplicity: 简单entices: 吸引venture: 走得更远decide: 决定shoulder: 肩energetic: 活力四射mature: 成熟familiar: 熟悉nostalgia: 怀念musters: 鼓起hesitation: 迟疑reassures: 安慰unpredictable: 变化无常doubts: 疑虑dissipate: 消散feelings: 感觉acceptance: 接受embracing: 拥抱journey: 旅程reunion: 重逢cheering: 加油roots: 根基

Jian opens Episode 411 of Roqe – Iran Rises with a searing essay explaining why the anger felt by Iranians around the world right now is not excessive, emotional, or misplaced - but informed, earned, and justified. He's then joined by Nazenin Ansari (Kayhan London / Kayhan Life) and Sadeq Bigdeli (Toronto-based lawyer and human rights advocate) for a sharp, up-to-the-minute conversation on the Huda Beauty backlash, disinformation campaigns, atrocity denial, the EU's designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization, legal accountability, and the possibility of international intervention. Recorded January 29, 2026.

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Harmony and Tradition: A Spring Festival Tale of Balance Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-01-28-08-38-20-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 在一个寒冷的冬天，雪花轻轻地飘落，家里却是另一番景象，充满了节日的温暖和喜悦。En: On a cold winter day, snowflakes gently floated down, but the inside of the home was a different scene, filled with the warmth and joy of the holiday spirit.Zh: 红色的灯笼挂在墙上，金色的“福”字贴在门上，空气中弥漫着热腾腾年夜饭的香味。En: Red lanterns hung on the walls, golden "福" (fu) characters were pasted on the doors, and the air was filled with the aroma of steaming nian ye fan, the New Year's Eve dinner.Zh: 这是连的家，一个热闹又舒适的大宅子。En: This was Lian's home, a lively yet cozy mansion.Zh: 连是家中的大姐，她对于即将到来的春节非常重视。En: Lian was the eldest sister in the family, and she took the upcoming Spring Festival very seriously.Zh: 一早，她就开始忙着布置家里的每一个角落，希望每位亲朋好友都能感到满意。En: Early in the morning, she started decorating every corner of the house, hoping that each friend and family member would be satisfied.Zh: 特别是爷爷奶奶，他们的肯定对连来说最重要。En: Especially her grandparents, whose approval was the most important to Lian.Zh: 她的弟弟剑却不太一样。En: Her brother Jian, however, was a bit different.Zh: 剑有自己的想法，喜欢尝试新鲜的事物。En: Jian had his own ideas and liked to try new things.Zh: 他提议在客厅挂上一些自己设计的现代风格装饰品。En: He suggested hanging some modern style decorations he designed in the living room.Zh: 连和剑在准备过程中的意见总是不一致。En: Lian and Jian always had different opinions during the preparations.Zh: “要是来点新意，大家可能会更喜欢。”剑说。En: "Maybe if we add something new, everyone might like it more," Jian said.Zh: “可是，我们要尊重传统，这才是最重要的。”连坚持。En: "But we need to respect tradition, that's the most important thing," Lian insisted.Zh: 这时，梅进来了。En: At this moment, Mei came in.Zh: 梅是一位熟悉家里但不太了解传统的好朋友，总是能在连和剑之间起到缓和的作用。En: Mei was a good friend who was familiar with the family but not very knowledgeable about traditions, and she was always able to mediate between Lian and Jian.Zh: “也许你们可以各退一步，试着结合传统和新意，结果可能会很棒。”梅建议。En: "Perhaps you could both take a step back and try combining tradition with new ideas; the result might be great," Mei suggested.Zh: 终于到了春节当晚，亲友们都陆续到来，家里显得更加热闹。En: Finally, on the night of the Spring Festival, friends and family gradually arrived, making the home even more lively.Zh: 连忙着招待每位客人，小心翼翼地确保一切按计划进行。En: Lian was busy entertaining each guest, carefully ensuring everything went according to plan.Zh: 然而，一个突然到来的客人打破了她的计划。En: However, an unexpected guest arrived and disrupted her plans.Zh: 这位客人见到剑的装饰品时脱口而出：“这些真的很有意思！是谁设计的？”En: Upon seeing Jian's decorations, this guest exclaimed, "These are really interesting! Who designed them?"Zh: 连愣了一下，但立刻感谢这位客人的意见。En: Lian was stunned for a moment but immediately thanked the guest for their feedback.Zh: 她意识到，有时候灵活变通，比一味追求完美更重要。En: She realized that sometimes being flexible and adaptive is more important than blindly pursuing perfection.Zh: 她微微一笑，对剑点点头。En: She smiled slightly and nodded to Jian.Zh: 这个春节晚宴在欢声笑语中度过。En: The Spring Festival dinner was spent amid laughter and cheerful voices.Zh: 大家对装饰的赞美让连明白，结合每个人的长处，才能让家更温暖。En: The compliments on the decorations made Lian understand that by combining everyone's strengths, the home became warmer.Zh: 她不再固执地追求完美，而是学会接受不同的意见。En: She no longer stubbornly pursued perfection but learned to accept different opinions.Zh: 最终，这场春节庆祝不仅赢得了老人们的满意，也让连发现了新的生活态度：平衡才是最美好的结果。En: In the end, this Spring Festival celebration not only won the approval of the elders but also led Lian to discover a new attitude towards life: balance is the most beautiful result.Zh: 在这个冬季的家庭聚会中，连学会了取舍、包容，也守护了传统和家庭的幸福。En: In this winter family gathering, Lian learned to choose wisely, embrace diversity, and safeguard the happiness of tradition and family. Vocabulary Words:snowflakes: 雪花floated: 飘落aroma: 香味steaming: 热腾腾lively: 热闹cozy: 舒适eldest: 大姐decorating: 布置approval: 肯定mediate: 缓和tradition: 传统adaptive: 变通pursuing: 追求perfection: 完美compliments: 赞美stubbornly: 固执balance: 平衡embrace: 包容safeguard: 守护upcoming: 即将到来的satisfied: 满意insisted: 坚持exclaimed: 脱口而出feedback: 意见gradually: 陆续unexpected: 突然disrupted: 打破flexible: 灵活cheerful: 欢笑attitude: 态度

Jian is joined by Farzin Nadimi, senior Iran and defense analyst at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, and Shayan Samii, a U.S. national security analyst specializing in strategic communications. The panel examines why Western intervention in Iran is no longer optional, how the regime's escalating violence signals strategic weakness rather than strength, and what tools the United States and its allies actually have at their disposal as mass killing unfolds inside Iran. The episode opens with a forceful in-studio essay arguing that Western media atrocity denial - driven by hesitation, ideological discomfort, and an obsession with disputing numbers - is delaying truth and enabling the continued killing of Iranian civilians. This episode is brought to you with the support of Stellar Law

Jian opens Episode 409 of Roqe - Iran Rises with a direct message to members of the Iranian diaspora who have chosen silence during one of the most violent chapters in the Islamic Republic's history - not out of ignorance or absence, but out of convenience. The episode then turns to a panel discussion with two guests joining from opposite sides of the world: Erfan Paydar, Iranian-American rapper and activist in Los Angeles, and Forouq Canaani, academic and political analyst based in Munich. Together, they examine the current state of the uprising inside Iran, the unprecedented scale of global solidarity rallies, the role of regime-linked lobbying and disinformation efforts, and how Iranians inside the country are navigating repression, fear, and hope in real time. Roqe - Iran Rises is recorded as events continue to move rapidly on the ground, with perspectives shared as close to real time as possible. This episode is brought to you with the support of Stellar Law

In this episode of Roqe – as part of the Iran Rises series - Jian reflects on a defining moment in Iran's ongoing revolution as internet blackouts begin to crack and evidence of mass violence by the Islamic Republic regime against civilians comes into view. In an opening essay entitled “Don't Look Away,” Jian argues that silence, exhaustion, and narrative distortion are among the most powerful tools authoritarian regimes rely on. Jian is then joined by Iranian-American former U.S. senior official and global business leader Bijan Kian for an in-depth conversation about: What the regime's actions reveal about its survival strategy Whether recent massacres mark a point of no return The international community's response – and its limits The role of disinformation and soft-pedalled narratives What sustained attention and support can actually achieve This episode was recorded on January 19, 2026, as events inside Iran continued to evolve This edition of Roqe is supported by Stellar Law – a Toronto-based boutique litigation firm known for disciplined strategy and rigorous advocacy.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

Commentary by Dr.  Jian'an Wang.

What is happening in Iran can no longer be described as a “regime crackdown.” It is a military occupation of civilians by their own state. In this urgent new episode of Roqe, Jian opens with a forceful essay addressing the scale of violence, mass arrests, and civilian deaths unfolding inside Iran - and the growing silence from Western governments and media. This edition features a wide-ranging panel discussion with: Dr. Siamak Aram (Washington DC) – Academic and community organizer focused on Iranian civic mobilization Shayan Samii (Virginia) – U.S. national security analyst specializing in the Near East and strategic communications Later, Jian speaks with Gazelle Sharmahd (Los Angeles), a German-American freedom advocate and the daughter of Jimmy Sharmahd, who was kidnapped and killed by the Islamic Republic in 2024. Recorded on January 15, 2026, this episode asks a painful question many Iranians are now voicing openly: Are we alone again? This edition of Roqe is brought to you with the support of: Stellar Law – stellarlaw.ca (http://stellarlaw.ca/) Famluxy – famluxy.com (http://famluxy.com/)

As protests escalate inside Iran and internet access is increasingly restricted, the urgency of this moment continues to sharpen. On this edition of Roqe (Episode 406) - the third installment of the ongoing Iran Rises series - Jian leads a timely panel discussion examining the rapidly unfolding situation inside Iran, the regime's escalating crackdown, the information blackout, and what meaningful international pressure could realistically look like. This episode was recorded on January 12th, 2026 at 3pm ET, as events were moving quickly on the ground.

Jian continues the Iran Rises series with a timely panel discussion examining the unfolding protest movement inside Iran. Recorded on January 8, 2026, this episode brings together four perspectives - street-level insight, security analysis, economic context, and historical framing - to better understand what is happening now and what may come next. Guests: Picasso Moin – Iranian activist and commentator (Istanbul) Mahdi Ghodsi – Economist, Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies Sepehr Vakil – Associate Professor, Northwestern University; author of Revolutionary Engineers Shayan Samii – U.S. national security analyst and strategic communications expert The conversation explores protest organization, regime power dynamics, economic pressure points, historical parallels, international response, and what may determine whether this moment advances or stalls. The episode opens with Jian's essay honoring the bravery of Iranians in the streets. This edition of Roqe is brought to you with the support of: Stellar Law – stellarlaw.ca Famluxy – famluxy.com

As mass protests continue across Iran, Roqe launches IRAN RISES, a new twice-weekly series dedicated to understanding an uprising that is not simply about economic unrest – but about legitimacy, power, and regime change. This episode opens with Jian's short essay arguing that what is unfolding in Iran is a new revolution. What follows is a focused panel discussion examining the current phase of the uprising, insights coming directly from inside the country, the Islamic Republic's posture, and what the near future may realistically look like. Panel: Nazanin Ansari – Iranian journalist, editor (London) Kamyar Mahinsa – Police officer, analyst (Vancouver) Ali Fathollah-Nejad – Political scientist, Iran expert (Berlin) This edition of Roqe is brought to you with the support of: Stellar Law – a Toronto-based boutique litigation firm Visit stellarlaw.ca iWelcome – premium Iranian-Canadian tour, travel, and limo services Visit iwelcome.ca Hosted by Jian Ghomeshi. Meezoon basheen.

Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Joining the Joy: Mei's Lunar New Year Transformation Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-01-04-23-34-02-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 梅（Mei）站在窗前，透过薄薄的窗帘，看着外面热闹的街道。En: Mei stood by the window, looking through the thin curtain at the bustling street outside.Zh: 冬天的雪已经覆盖了屋顶，白色的粉末给整个小区披上了一层梦幻的面纱。En: The winter snow had already covered the rooftops, and the white powder draped the entire neighborhood in a layer of dreamlike veil.Zh: 街道两旁的小房子上挂满了红色的灯笼和春联，整个社区都沉浸在迎接农历新年的喜悦气氛中。En: Red lanterns and couplets hung on the small houses lining the street, and the whole community was immersed in the joyful atmosphere of welcoming the Lunar New Year.Zh: 梅刚搬到这个社区。En: Mei had just moved to this community.Zh: 这里的一切对她来说既新鲜又有些陌生。En: Everything here felt both fresh and a bit unfamiliar to her.Zh: 她很想融入这个新的环境，但不知道该从哪里开始。En: She wanted to integrate into this new environment but didn't know where to start.Zh: 她感到有点害怕，但同时也充满了好奇。En: She felt a little scared but was also full of curiosity.Zh: 于是，她决定找邻居贾恩（Jian）帮忙。En: So, she decided to ask her neighbor Jian for help.Zh: 贾恩是个热情的人，总是乐于组织活动。En: Jian was a warm-hearted person who always enjoyed organizing activities.Zh: 梅敲开了贾恩的门。En: Mei knocked on Jian's door.Zh: 贾恩见到梅，非常高兴。En: Jian was very happy to see Mei.Zh: "欢迎来到我们的社区！En: "Welcome to our community!"Zh: "贾恩微笑着说。En: Jian said with a smile.Zh: "我们正在准备农历新年的活动，你愿意加入吗？En: "We are preparing for the Lunar New Year activities, would you like to join?"Zh: "梅重重地点了点头。En: Mei nodded vigorously.Zh: "当然！En: "Of course!Zh: 但我不太了解这些传统，不知道如何帮忙。En: But I'm not very familiar with these traditions and don't know how to help."Zh: "贾恩笑了："没关系，我来教你。En: Jian laughed, "No problem, I'll teach you.Zh: 我们会一起布置街道，还要准备年夜饭的食材。En: We will decorate the street together and also prepare the ingredients for the New Year's Eve dinner."Zh: "于是，他们一起开始忙碌起来。En: So, they started to get busy together.Zh: 梅得到的第一个任务是挂红灯笼。En: Mei's first task was to hang the red lanterns.Zh: 在挂灯笼的时候，她用了点力气，结果不小心弄松了系带，灯笼掉落下来。En: While hanging the lanterns, she used a bit of force, and accidentally loosened the strap, causing a lantern to fall.Zh: 围观的人群中传出一阵惊呼。En: A gasp erupted from the crowd watching.Zh: 这时，邻居莉娜（Lina）从旁边走上前来。En: At this moment, neighbor Lina stepped forward.Zh: 她是梅的邻居，平时不太爱说话，但显然对解决问题很有一手。En: She was Mei's neighbor, usually not very talkative, but apparently quite good at solving problems.Zh: "不要担心，我们一起来修好它！En: "Don't worry, let's fix it together!"Zh: "莉娜鼓励道。En: Lina encouraged.Zh: 很快，周围的人也加入进来，帮忙把灯笼重新挂好。En: Soon, people around also joined in, helping to rehang the lantern.Zh: 大家在一起忙忙碌碌，笑声感染了每一个人。En: Everyone was busy together, and laughter spread through the group.Zh: 梅心里的一块石头终于落了地。En: The weight in Mei's heart finally lifted.Zh: 经过这次的小插曲，梅意识到，犯错并不可怕，重要的是要勇于尝试和表达热情。En: Through this little episode, Mei realized that making mistakes isn't scary; what matters is the courage to try and express enthusiasm.Zh: 这个社区，因着新年的准备活动而更加温馨热闹，而梅也终于真正觉得自己成为了其中的一份子。En: This community, made even more warm and lively with the preparation for the New Year, finally made Mei feel truly a part of it.Zh: 笑声中，梅感受到无比的温暖，也更加自信地迎接接下来的每一个新年。En: Among the laughter, Mei felt an immense warmth and became more confident to welcome every New Year that comes. Vocabulary Words:bustling: 热闹的veil: 面纱couplets: 春联integrate: 融入curiosity: 好奇task: 任务vigorously: 重重地strap: 系带gasp: 惊呼episode: 插曲immense: 无比venue: 场地lantern: 灯笼laughter: 笑声community: 社区organizing: 组织decorate: 布置ingredients: 食材confidence: 自信atmosphere: 气氛neighbor: 邻居enthusiasm: 热情preparation: 准备welcoming: 迎接curtain: 窗帘neighboring: 旁边的unexpected: 不小心anxious: 害怕unfamiliar: 陌生encouraged: 鼓励

In this special New Year's Day episode of Roqe, Jian convenes eight prominent Iranian voices from around the world to reflect on the year that was and the year ahead. The episode opens with a freshly recorded opening essay responding to the most recent protests inside Iran and the ongoing mischaracterization of Iranian uprisings by parts of the Western media. The interviews themselves were recorded shortly before the latest events, but the themes explored remain strikingly current. Each guest is asked four shared questions: How they characterize the past year for Iranians Their hopes for Iranians in 2026 Their fears for the year ahead And their personal resolutions Guests featured on this episode: Andy Madadian (Los Angeles) Elina Shirazi (Washington DC) Dr. Ali Fathollah-Nejad (Berlin) Bijan Kian (California) Nazenin Ansari (London) Tehran Von Ghasri (Los Angeles) Shahrzad “Sherry” Kazemi (Vancouver) Pegah Ganji (Toronto) Together, they offer a global portrait of a people navigating protest, trauma, hope, and the enduring belief that meaningful change is still possible.

...but it's ok because I wore a dope fit!IT'S A HOLIDAY HIJINX SPECIAL EDITION FREE EPISODE! Jeremy, Jian, and Jeff recap the holiday hang at Meta Lab, fit checks, dinners in the village with J. Mueser, and what pieces they wore the most in 2025.See you in 2026! PS: You can watch the episode on YouTube, too! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.