# Roqe Conversations from, to, and about the Iranian diaspora. Roqe is hosted by Jian Ghomeshi. Page: Feed: --- ## [Roqe Ep. 456 - "Enough Already!" - Sara Rahimi](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep456) _2026-08-13_ Why do so many of us spend our lives trying to make everyone else happy? And at what point does kindness become self-abandonment? On Episode 456 of Roqe, Jian welcomes back returning guest Sara Rahimi - Iranian-Canadian therapist, certified life coach, trauma-informed practitioner, and author - to discuss her new book, Enough Already! Together they explore the psychology of people-pleasing, why we… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2381353062-roqe-media-ep456.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 455 - Survival Is Not Victory - Lisa Daftari, Shayan Sami'i](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep455) _2026-08-06_ In this episode, Jian opens with the essay Survival Is Not Victory, challenging the growing narrative that the Islamic Republic has somehow emerged triumphant. While the regime remains in power, many of the underlying conditions that fueled the largest uprising in decades - economic collapse, repression, corruption and widespread public frustration - have only intensified. Joining Jian are Lisa… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2377070330-roqe-media-ep455.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep.454 - Vessbroz](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/vessbroz) _2026-07-30_ Vessbroz have become one of the biggest Iranian success stories in global electronic music. But behind the stages, festivals and billions of online views is a remarkable story of two brothers from Isfahan whose lives were shaped by exile, resilience, family and an enduring connection to Iran. In this conversation, Jian sits down with Armia and Arsham for one of their rare long-form interviews,… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2372253686-roqe-media-vessbroz.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 453 - ROQE LIVE 6! - Shahram Shabpareh Honoured, Tina Parsa, Gdaal, Shally Zomorodi & More](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/rl6) _2026-07-24_ A very special edition of Roqe - recorded live at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts. Jian Ghomeshi opens the show with a personal talk about his family's roots in southern Iran, the hardships facing people in Khuzestan and across the country, and the enduring idea behind Roqe: wherever we live, and however much we may disagree, Iranians remain connected. Then, Smart Pegah Ganji… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2367477413-roqe-media-rl6.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 452 - Should Canada Return to Tehran? - Avideh Motmaenfar, Ardershir Zarezadeh](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-452-should-canada) _2026-07-13_ Should Canada reopen its embassy in Tehran? Prime Minister Mark Carney has reignited a debate that many believed ended when Canada closed its embassy in Tehran in 2012. In the opening essay, Jian asks: "Reopening the Canadian embassy in Tehran? Really?" He argues that an embassy is never simply a building. It is recognition. It is legitimacy. It is a message. Joining Jian are Avideh Motmaen-Far,… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2360158346-roqe-media-roqe-ep-452-should-canada.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 451 - The Funeral as a Weapon - Bozorgmehr Sharafedin](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep451) _2026-07-06_ A new edition of Roqe featuring Jian’s opening essay, “The Funeral as a Weapon,” and a feature interview with Iranian-British journalist and documentary filmmaker Bozorgmehr Sharafedin. As the Islamic Republic stages the public funeral spectacle for former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Jian asks what the world is really watching: grief, propaganda, coercion, political theatre - or all of the above?… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2354316914-roqe-media-ep451.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 450 - IRAN RISES - Bijan Kian, Shahram Kholdi](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep450) _2026-07-02_ This episode opens with Jian Ghomeshi's essay, "AS IF NOTHING HAPPENED," a commentary on the Islamic Republic's attempt to sell a narrative of stability and normalcy to the world following the recent conflict, and why history cannot simply be rewritten. Jian is then joined by Dr. Shahram Kholdi, followed by Bijan Kian for an in-depth discussion on where Iran stands today. Has the Islamic Republic… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2352160412-roqe-media-ep450.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 449 - IRAN RISES - Ramin Zamani](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-449-iran-rises-ramin) _2026-06-25_ For months, events surrounding Iran have moved at a relentless pace. In the midst of that, some remarkable conversations had to wait their turn. This is one of them. In this episode, Jian Ghomeshi welcomes acclaimed composer, producer and arranger Ramin Zamani to the Roqe studio for a fascinating discussion about music, exile, creativity, discipline and authenticity. Long before he became one of… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2347273022-roqe-media-roqe-ep-449-iran-rises-ramin.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 448 - IRAN RISES - Ehsan Karami](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep448) _2026-06-22_ Broadcaster, actor, singer and cultural commentator Ehsan Karami joins Jian Ghomeshi in studio for a special conversation in both English and Persian. Together they discuss the current state of the Iranian freedom movement, the reaction to the new memorandum of understanding between the Trump administration and the Islamic Republic, the ongoing debate surrounding Team Melli at the FIFA World Cup,… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2344387397-roqe-media-ep448.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 447 - Memorandom of Undermining - Shayan Sami'i, Picasso Moin, Kiarash Kian](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep447) _2026-06-18_ A new Memorandum of Understanding between the Trump administration and the Islamic Republic has ignited outrage, disappointment, and fierce debate among many Iranians around the world. Jian Ghomeshi welcomes Shayan Samii, Picasso Moin, and Kiarash Kian for a discussion about the deal, the prospect of sanctions relief and a reported $300 billion reconstruction package, and whether the agreement… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2342180225-roqe-media-ep447.mp3) ## [Recipe PDFs Ready Fast (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/hlM63ILnpWiY) _2026-06-18 · **Sponsored**_ Turn online or personal recipes into clean, printable PDFs in seconds. ## [Roqe Ep. 446 - IRAN RISES - After the First Match - Atbin Arian, Seena Ghaznavi, Mehrdad Ahmadpour](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep446) _2026-06-16_ The World Cup has begun and Team Melli has finally taken the field. Following Iran's 2-2 draw with New Zealand in Los Angeles, Jian Ghomeshi is joined by Atbin Arian, Seena Ghaznavi and Mehrdad Ahmadpour to discuss the atmosphere surrounding the opening match, the presence of Lion and Sun flags inside the stadium, FIFA's role in shaping the broadcast narrative, and the complicated feelings many… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2340725156-roqe-media-ep446.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 445 - IRAN RISES - The Game They're Playing - Ahmad Batebi, Shahram Kholdi](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep445) _2026-06-11_ As the FIFA World Cup gets underway, many people around the world are focused on football. But many Iranians are focused on something else entirely. Jian Ghomeshi welcomes former political prisoner and activist Ahmad Batebi and historian and political analyst Dr. Shahram Kholdi for a discussion about the World Cup, Team Melli, the Islamic Republic's attempts to shape narratives on the global… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2337750059-roqe-media-ep445.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 444 - IRAN RISES - The FIFA Follies - Atbin Arian, Shayan Sami’i](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep444) _2026-06-04_ The FIFA World Cup begins in just one week, and once again the debate is underway. Will politics overshadow the football? Or will the football eventually overshadow the politics? On this episode of Roqe, Jian Ghomeshi welcomes Atbin Arian and Shayan Sami’i for a conversation about the upcoming World Cup, FIFA’s contradictions, the controversy surrounding the Lion and Sun flag, Team Melli,… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2333571923-roqe-media-ep444.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 443 - IRAN RISES - Who Let the Mullahs In? - Sadeq Bigdeli, Mehran Aminian, Avideh Motmaenfar](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep443) _2026-05-28_ Canada officially lists the IRGC as a terrorist entity. So why do reports continue surfacing about regime-connected figures, insiders, and individuals allegedly tied to the Islamic Republic entering Canada? On this episode of Roqe, Jian Ghomeshi moderates a timely and provocative panel discussion examining immigration, ideology, western political culture, security concerns, and whether Canada has… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2329258034-roqe-media-ep443.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 442 - IRAN RISES - It's Okay to Laugh - Amir Arfa, Pouya Comedy](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep442) _2026-05-25_ In the midst of revolution, repression, emotional exhaustion, and political uncertainty, is it still okay to laugh? On this edition of Roqe, Jian sits down with two Iranian content creators and comedians who have built large audiences through satire, parody, viral videos, standup, and social media commentary while also openly supporting the Lion and Sun Revolution against the Islamic Republic… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2327314937-roqe-media-ep442.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 441 - IRAN RISES - Why the Prolonged Pause? - Bozorgmehr Sharafedin, Lisa Daftari](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep441) _2026-05-21_ Why has the war not resumed? Why has a deal not been reached? And what exactly is happening during this strange and uneasy silence between the Islamic Republic and the West? On this edition of Roqe, Jian is joined by Lisa Daftari in Los Angeles and Bozorgmehr Sharafedin in Washington DC for a deeper examination of the prolonged pause following the ceasefire. Is the regime buying time? Is the West… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2325241409-roqe-media-ep441.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 440 - IRAN RISES - We Are Not Okay - Melica Bokaie, Bahador Alast](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/440ep) _2026-05-18_ After months of rallies, emotional highs, hopes for revolution, fears of war, endless political debates, and now growing uncertainty once again, many Iranians are simply exhausted. On this 440th edition of Roqe - “IRAN RISES - We Are Not Okay” - Jian Ghomeshi explores the emotional and psychological toll the last five months have taken on Iranians around the world. In his opening essay, “WE ARE… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2323309406-roqe-media-440ep.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 439 - IRAN RISES - Can China Decide Iran's Future? - Shahram Kholdi, Shayan Sami'i](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep439) _2026-05-15_ Roqe Ep.439 - Can China Decide Iran’s Future? As Donald Trump meets Xi Jinping in Beijing, Iran is quietly becoming one of the most consequential subjects behind closed doors. On this edition of Roqe, Jian opens with an essay entitled “The Regime Is Not Surviving Alone” - a provocative look at how China has become one of the Islamic Republic’s most important economic lifelines, and why the future… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2320879103-roqe-media-ep439.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 438 - IRAN RISES - Do We Return to “Normal” - Or Not Yet? - Panel](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep438) _2026-05-11_ Do we return to “normal” - or not yet? For many Iranians in the diaspora, recent months have been marked by trauma, war, executions, fear for loved ones, and a collective decision to pause parts of ordinary life out of solidarity with those suffering inside Iran. But as exhaustion sets in, an important question emerges: how do people remain engaged in a long struggle without losing themselves… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2318885675-roqe-media-ep438.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 437 - IRAN RISES - Lion & Sun Revolution: Stalled or Still Alive? Bijan Kian, Pantea Modiri](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep437) _2026-05-07_ Roqe Ep. 437 - IRAN RISES - The Lion & Sun Revolution: Stalled or Still Alive? As the movement against the Islamic Republic enters a more uncertain and psychologically complicated phase, many Iranians are asking a difficult question: has the revolutionary momentum toward regime change stalled… or is this simply the messy middle chapter that revolutions often pass through before change arrives?… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2316669356-roqe-media-ep437.mp3) ## [Point once, get highlights (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/vtK59R1UJIT6) _2026-05-07 · **Sponsored**_ Get minutes worth watching from a whole game — point once ## [Roqe Ep. 436 - IRAN RISES - Should Iran be Banned from World Cup 2026? - Panel Debate](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep436) _2026-05-04_ On this episode of Roqe, a question that sounds like sport… but cuts far deeper. As the World Cup approaches, many Iranians are facing a painful dilemma: does Team Melli represent a nation - or the Islamic Republic regime? In the opening essay, Jian asks a question that has become unavoidable: Who do you cheer for… when your country has been taken from you? Then, a real debate with three voices… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2314735511-roqe-media-ep436.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 435 - IRAN RISES - Who Benefits from the Delay? - Shayan Sami'i, Picasso Moin](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep435) _2026-04-30_ Roqe Ep.435 - IRAN RISES - Who Benefits from the Delay? - Shayan Sami’i, Picasso Moin The regime wants you to think it’s over - it’s not. On this episode, Jian opens with a message to those declaring the Iranian uprising finished, making the case that this narrative risks amplifying the regime’s messaging at a critical moment. Then, a panel examining the current pause in confrontation between the… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2312435972-roqe-media-ep435.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 434 - IRAN RISES - The Role of Alternative Media - Nazenin Ansari, Andy Alem, Kiarash Kian](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-434-iran-rises-the) _2026-04-27_ We miss the voices of Iran. In this episode, Jian opens with a poetic and powerful essay on the impact of the Iranian regime’s internet blackouts - not only as a violation of human rights, but as a loss of connection, clarity, and direction for millions outside the country who have been inspired by those inside it. The conversation then turns to the role of alternative media at a critical moment.… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2310443102-roqe-media-roqe-ep-434-iran-rises-the.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 433 - IRAN RISES - How This War Is Changing Us - Shiva Negar, Satin, Sadaf Yasini](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep433) _2026-04-23_ Jian opens this episode of Roqe with an essay titled “The War Is Changing Us,” reflecting on how the past four months - from the January massacres inside Iran to the current war - have affected Iranians not only inside the country, but across the diaspora. While the realities inside Iran remain the central focus, this conversation examines how millions outside the country are experiencing a… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2308251896-roqe-media-ep433.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 432 - IRAN RISES - The War of Perception - Bozorgmehr Sharafedin](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep432) _2026-04-20_ On this episode of Roqe, Iranian-British journalist and documentary filmmaker Bozorgmehr Sharafedin joins from Washington for a timely and revealing conversation on the state of Iran and the global conversation surrounding it. As Head of Digital News at Iran International and a former BBC editor and Reuters reporter, Sharafedin brings deep insight into how Iran is being understood - and… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2306290160-roqe-media-ep432.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 431 - IRAN RISES - Who Is In Charge? - Lisa Daftari, Shahram Kholdi](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep431) _2026-04-16_ Jian opens Episode 431 of Roqe with an essay titled The Story Has Been Hijacked, reflecting on how the global conversation around Iran has shifted away from the human rights movement that brought millions into the streets - and why it is up to Iranians to bring that focus back. He is then joined by Lisa Daftari, Iranian-American foreign policy analyst and Editor-in-Chief of The Foreign Desk (from… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2304001334-roqe-media-ep431.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 430 - IRAN RISES - The Illusion of Calm - Ali Hamedani, Shayan Sami'i, Sadeq Bigdeli](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep430) _2026-04-13_ A ceasefire has been declared - but the tension has not eased. On this edition of Roqe - Iran Rises, Jian is joined by Ali Hamedani (London), Shayan Sami’i (Washington), and Sadeq Bigdeli (Toronto) to assess where things stand as talks break down and uncertainty grows. Is this a moment of calm - or The Illusion of Calm? Jian opens with an essay titled Outsourcing Repression - exploring news that… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2302068491-roqe-media-ep430.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 429 - IRAN RISES - Regime Unchanged - Behnam Taleblu](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep429) _2026-04-09_ As a ceasefire takes hold and attention shifts, what are we left with? On this episode, Jian opens with an essay arguing that the recent war has diverted global focus away from what he describes as one of the most consequential events in recent Iranian history - the mass killing of civilians in January. The piece examines how media narratives, geopolitical analysis, and ideological debates can… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2299838900-roqe-media-ep429.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 428 - IRAN RISES - Consequential Moment - Dr. Shahram Kholdi, Dr. Mahdi Ghodsi](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep428) _2026-04-07_ On this edition of Roqe, Dr. Shahram Kholdi (Southwestern Ontario) and Dr. Mahdi Ghodsi (Vienna) join Jian for a timely conversation at a consequential moment in the Iran crisis. With a deadline from Donald Trump threatening major escalation, strikes already hitting infrastructure inside Iran, and ongoing uncertainty about how Iranians are responding, this episode examines where things stand - and… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2297759057-roqe-media-ep428.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 427 - IRAN RISES - A Deal Means More of This - Andrew Ghalili](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-427-iran-rises-a-deal) _2026-04-02_ On this episode of Roqe, Andrew Ghalili joins Jian from New York for a conversation on the dangers of pursuing another deal with the Islamic Republic. They discuss the aftermath of President Trump’s recent speech, why the idea of a “moderate” replacement within the regime is fundamentally flawed, and how the IRGC continues to hold power despite mounting pressure. Andrew also shares insights on… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2295624002-roqe-media-roqe-ep-427-iran-rises-a-deal.mp3) ## [Try Before You Buy, Risk-Free (Sponsored)](https://crawlproof.com/a/lXt1BBNiNUgD) _2026-04-02 · **Sponsored**_ Free trial hosting plus refunds processed in 12-24 hours, guaranteed. ## [Roqe Ep. 426 - IRAN RISES - False Narratives - Dr. Kaveh Elahiyoun, Nazenin Ansari, Sepehr Vakil](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep426) _2026-03-30_ On this episode of Roqe, Jian opens with an essay titled “When the Truth Is Hard to Find - Ask Who Benefits,” exploring how propaganda, projection, and competing agendas are shaping the global conversation about Iran during a time of internet blackout. He is then joined by Nazenin Ansari (London), Dr. Sepehr Vakil (Evanston, Illinois), and Dr. Kaveh Elahiyoun (Las Vegas) for a panel discussion on… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2293641026-roqe-media-ep426.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 425 - IRAN RISES - Washington Is Calling - Bijan Kian](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep425) _2026-03-26_ On this episode of Roqe, Jian is joined by Bijan Kian - a returning guest who consistently sparks strong reactions from the Roqe audience. A former senior U.S. official with decades of experience across public and private sectors, Kian offers his perspective on the current war involving the United States, Israel, and the Islamic Republic. The conversation explores competing narratives in American… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2291371205-roqe-media-ep425.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 424 - IRAN RISES - Decoding Trump - Shooka Bidarian, Shayan Sami'i, Ardeshir Zarezadeh](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep424) _2026-03-23_ On this episode of Roqe, Jian is joined by a global panel to unpack a fast-moving and uncertain moment around Iran and the role of Donald Trump’s rhetoric and positioning in shaping what may come next. Joining from London, Washington, and Toronto are Shooka Bidarian, Shayan Sami’i, and Ardeshir Zarezadeh - bringing perspectives from media, policy, and activism to explore where things stand right… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2289391406-roqe-media-ep424.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 423 - IRAN RISES - Beware Regime Narratives in Western Media - Forouq Canaani](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep423) _2026-03-13_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2282743403-roqe-media-ep423.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 422 - IRAN RISES - The Mullahs Are Not Winning - Bozorgmehr Sharafedin](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-422-iran-rises-the) _2026-03-09_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2280638327-roqe-media-roqe-ep-422-iran-rises-the.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 421 - IRAN RISES - Will U.S. Intervention Bring Change? - Ari Aramesh](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-421-iran-rises-will-u) _2026-03-06_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2278428872-roqe-media-roqe-ep-421-iran-rises-will-u.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 420 - IRAN RISES - Zahhak is Dead, What's Next? - Behnam Taleblu, Shayan Samii](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep420) _2026-03-03_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2276518082-roqe-media-ep420.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 419 - IRAN RISES - Fighting Disinformation - Sadaf Yasini, Pegah Ganji, Daniel Diba](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep419) _2026-02-27_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2274251591-roqe-media-ep419.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 418 - IRAN RISES - The Students Arise! - Dr. Sepehr Vakil](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep418) _2026-02-23_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2272219319-roqe-media-ep418.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 417 - IRAN RISES - Iranians Are Already at War - Ali Hamedani, Mahdi Ghodsi, Ardeshir Zarezadeh](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-417-iran-rises) _2026-02-20_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2269905236-roqe-media-roqe-ep-417-iran-rises.mp3) ## [Ep. 416 - IRAN RISES - An Epic Weekend - Farnoush Hamidian,Laleh Tangsiri,Navid Negahban,Pegah Ganji](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep416) _2026-02-17_ 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 Hamidian in Munich Laleh Tangsiri, joining from London after attending the Munich rally Navid… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2267924183-roqe-media-ep416.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 415 - IRAN RISES - The Folly of the UN - Lisa Daftari, Shayan Samii, Bahador Alast](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep415) _2026-02-13_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2265586604-roqe-media-ep415.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 414 - IRAN RISES - What Will Trump Do? - Khosro Isfahani, Picasso Moin, Kamyar Mahinsa](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/ep414) _2026-02-09_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2263327343-roqe-media-ep414.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 413 - IRAN RISES - The Diaspora Mobilizes - Salar Gholami](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe413) _2026-02-06_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2261075429-roqe-media-roqe413.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 412 - IRAN RISES - Feel the Power When Iranians Unite - Homa Sarshar](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-412-iran-rises-feel-the-power-when-iranians-unite-homa-sarshar) _2026-02-03_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2259091133-roqe-media-roqe-ep-412-iran-rises-feel-the-power-when-iranians-unite-homa-sarshar.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 411 - IRAN RISES - The Anger is Justified - Nazenin Ansari, Sadeq Bigdeli](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-411-iran-rises-the-anger-is-justified-nazenin-ansari-sadeq-bigdeli) _2026-01-29_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2256774815-roqe-media-roqe-ep-411-iran-rises-the-anger-is-justified-nazenin-ansari-sadeq-bigdeli.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 410 - IRAN RISES - The Case for Western Intervention - Farzin Nadimi, Shayan Samii](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-410-iran-rises-the-case-for-western-intervention-farzin-nadimi-shayan-samii) _2026-01-27_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2254821866-roqe-media-roqe-ep-410-iran-rises-the-case-for-western-intervention-farzin-nadimi-shayan-samii.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 409 - IRAN RISES - To Those Who Remain Silent... - Erfan Paydar, Forouq Canaani](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-409-iran-rises-to-those-who-remain-silent-erfan-paydar-forouq-canaani) _2026-01-22_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2252494043-roqe-media-roqe-ep-409-iran-rises-to-those-who-remain-silent-erfan-paydar-forouq-canaani.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep. 408 - IRAN RISES - Don't Look Away - Bijan Kian](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep-408-iran-rises-dont-look-away-bijan-kian) _2026-01-20_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2250588560-roqe-media-roqe-ep-408-iran-rises-dont-look-away-bijan-kian.mp3) ## [Roqe Ep.407 - IRAN RISES - Alone Again? - Gazelle Sharmahd, Siamak Aram, Shayan Samii](https://soundcloud.com/roqe-media/roqe-ep407-iran-rises-alone-again-gazelle-sharmahd-siamak-aram-shayan-samii) _2026-01-15_ 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… [Listen](https://feeds.soundcloud.com/stream/2248324091-roqe-media-roqe-ep407-iran-rises-alone-again-gazelle-sharmahd-siamak-aram-shayan-samii.mp3)