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    <fireside:hostname>web01.fireside.fm</fireside:hostname>
    <fireside:genDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 01:21:37 -0500</fireside:genDate>
    <generator>Fireside (https://fireside.fm)</generator>
    <title>AwokenWord - Episodes Tagged with “Politics”</title>
    <link>https://www.awokenword.com/tags/politics</link>
    <pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
    <description>&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MhZxX7xYSuE?si=axB0H9zjPsYij5LH" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

AwokenWord is a long-form, conversation style podcast hosted by writer, poet, and music composer, Anuj Rastogi. Through nuanced and thoughtful dialogue with an incredible array of guests, Anuj explores the worlds of society, culture, art, music, science, current events and all things that comprise the human experience.
"I want to challenge and evolve ideas, intuitions and convictions. This world, is quite simply, nuts, and often terrifying. Yet, this same world is incredibly beautiful, inspiring and mesmerizing. I want to get to know people who are interesting, who hold varied opinions and have life experiences different than my own.
This podcast is my humble attempt to bring goodness, unique conversation and inspiration to the beach of human experience. This podcast is my love letter to the world, and to what it means to be human."
~ Anuj Rastogi
</description>
    <language>en-us</language>
    <itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type>
    <itunes:subtitle>Enlightened conversations about the human experience.</itunes:subtitle>
    <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
    <itunes:summary>&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MhZxX7xYSuE?si=axB0H9zjPsYij5LH" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

AwokenWord is a long-form, conversation style podcast hosted by writer, poet, and music composer, Anuj Rastogi. Through nuanced and thoughtful dialogue with an incredible array of guests, Anuj explores the worlds of society, culture, art, music, science, current events and all things that comprise the human experience.
"I want to challenge and evolve ideas, intuitions and convictions. This world, is quite simply, nuts, and often terrifying. Yet, this same world is incredibly beautiful, inspiring and mesmerizing. I want to get to know people who are interesting, who hold varied opinions and have life experiences different than my own.
This podcast is my humble attempt to bring goodness, unique conversation and inspiration to the beach of human experience. This podcast is my love letter to the world, and to what it means to be human."
~ Anuj Rastogi
</itunes:summary>
    <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
    <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
    <itunes:keywords>AwokenWord, Awoken, Word, Conversation, Nuance, World, Culture, Politics, Humanity, Science, Art</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:owner>
      <itunes:name>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:name>
      <itunes:email>awokenwordpodcast@gmail.com</itunes:email>
    </itunes:owner>
<itunes:category text="Society &amp; Culture">
  <itunes:category text="Philosophy"/>
</itunes:category>
<itunes:category text="Arts"/>
<item>
  <title>#028: Matt Hoh - "The Fight for Peace"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/028-matt-hoh</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">9a815f39-f09c-4f67-a927-9f2e444c3e83</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/9a815f39-f09c-4f67-a927-9f2e444c3e83.mp3" length="154474289" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>3</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Anuj sits down with Captain Matthew Hoh, former US Marine and now Fellow with the Eisenhower Media Network. Matt's personal journey has literally moved through war, to trying to take on the machine of war making.  While Matt is prominent as a writer, podcast and media guest for sharing his informed perspectives on current affairs, this conversation is a deeper look into Matt the man, and the personal journey that led him to be who he is today. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:47:16</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/9/9a815f39-f09c-4f67-a927-9f2e444c3e83/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Anuj sits down with Captain Matthew Hoh, former US Marine and now Fellow with the Eisenhower Media Network. Matt's personal journey has literally moved through war, to trying to take on the machine of war making.  While Matt is prominent as a writer, podcast and media guest for sharing his informed perspectives on current affairs, this conversation is a deeper look into Matt the man, and the personal journey that led him to be who he is today. Recorded in January 2025, this conversation captures many questions that we all should be asking ourselves about the state of the world, our perpensity for war, and what we can do to change the narrative of the future.  &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;

&lt;p&gt;EMN Associate Director Matthew Hoh had nearly twelve years experience with the US military and the wars overseas with the United States Marine Corps, Department of Defense and State Department.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Matthew Hoh is the Associate Director of the Eisenhower Media Network.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;In 2009, Matthew Hoh resigned in protest from his post in Afghanistan with the State Department over the American escalation of the war. Prior to his assignment in Afghanistan, Matt took part in the American occupation of Iraq; first in 2004-2005 in Salah ad Din Province with a State Department reconstruction and governance team and then in 2006-2007 in Anbar Province as a Marine Corps company commander. When not deployed, Matt worked on Afghanistan and Iraq war policy and operations issues at the Pentagon and State Department from 2002-2008.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;From 2010-2024, Matt was affiliated with the Center for International Policy, first as a senior fellow and later as a senior fellow emeritus. He is a disabled veteran. Special Guest: Matthew Hoh.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, human, society, empire, world, history, gaza, politics, peace, russia, gaza, ukraine, love, war, humanity</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj sits down with Captain Matthew Hoh, former US Marine and now Fellow with the Eisenhower Media Network. Matt&#39;s personal journey has literally moved through war, to trying to take on the machine of war making.  While Matt is prominent as a writer, podcast and media guest for sharing his informed perspectives on current affairs, this conversation is a deeper look into Matt the man, and the personal journey that led him to be who he is today. Recorded in January 2025, this conversation captures many questions that we all should be asking ourselves about the state of the world, our perpensity for war, and what we can do to change the narrative of the future.  </p>

<hr>

<p>EMN Associate Director Matthew Hoh had nearly twelve years experience with the US military and the wars overseas with the United States Marine Corps, Department of Defense and State Department.</p>

<p>Matthew Hoh is the Associate Director of the Eisenhower Media Network.</p>

<p>In 2009, Matthew Hoh resigned in protest from his post in Afghanistan with the State Department over the American escalation of the war. Prior to his assignment in Afghanistan, Matt took part in the American occupation of Iraq; first in 2004-2005 in Salah ad Din Province with a State Department reconstruction and governance team and then in 2006-2007 in Anbar Province as a Marine Corps company commander. When not deployed, Matt worked on Afghanistan and Iraq war policy and operations issues at the Pentagon and State Department from 2002-2008.</p>

<p>From 2010-2024, Matt was affiliated with the Center for International Policy, first as a senior fellow and later as a senior fellow emeritus. He is a disabled veteran.</p><p>Special Guest: Matthew Hoh.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj sits down with Captain Matthew Hoh, former US Marine and now Fellow with the Eisenhower Media Network. Matt&#39;s personal journey has literally moved through war, to trying to take on the machine of war making.  While Matt is prominent as a writer, podcast and media guest for sharing his informed perspectives on current affairs, this conversation is a deeper look into Matt the man, and the personal journey that led him to be who he is today. Recorded in January 2025, this conversation captures many questions that we all should be asking ourselves about the state of the world, our perpensity for war, and what we can do to change the narrative of the future.  </p>

<hr>

<p>EMN Associate Director Matthew Hoh had nearly twelve years experience with the US military and the wars overseas with the United States Marine Corps, Department of Defense and State Department.</p>

<p>Matthew Hoh is the Associate Director of the Eisenhower Media Network.</p>

<p>In 2009, Matthew Hoh resigned in protest from his post in Afghanistan with the State Department over the American escalation of the war. Prior to his assignment in Afghanistan, Matt took part in the American occupation of Iraq; first in 2004-2005 in Salah ad Din Province with a State Department reconstruction and governance team and then in 2006-2007 in Anbar Province as a Marine Corps company commander. When not deployed, Matt worked on Afghanistan and Iraq war policy and operations issues at the Pentagon and State Department from 2002-2008.</p>

<p>From 2010-2024, Matt was affiliated with the Center for International Policy, first as a senior fellow and later as a senior fellow emeritus. He is a disabled veteran.</p><p>Special Guest: Matthew Hoh.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#024: "Analog Intelligence"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/24-analog-intelligence</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">d314eecb-b3d2-4de0-bbd2-338ffdbff96e</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 31 Dec 2023 18:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/d314eecb-b3d2-4de0-bbd2-338ffdbff96e.mp3" length="54694594" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>A special episode where Anuj shares his reflections on 2023, ahead of another impromptu conversation with his son about AI ethics, and the struggle between good and bad.  </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>37:27</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/d/d314eecb-b3d2-4de0-bbd2-338ffdbff96e/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;A special episode where Anuj shares his reflections on 2023, ahead of another impromptu conversation with his son about AI ethics, and the struggle between good and bad.   &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, history, science, politics, love, art, humanity, music, gaza, israel, ai, intelligence, good, evil, peace, childhood, love</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>A special episode where Anuj shares his reflections on 2023, ahead of another impromptu conversation with his son about AI ethics, and the struggle between good and bad.  </p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>A special episode where Anuj shares his reflections on 2023, ahead of another impromptu conversation with his son about AI ethics, and the struggle between good and bad.  </p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#022: My Son - "No War"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/22-my-son</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">aadaf20e-9108-4541-8046-5afe9372da83</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 01 Nov 2023 22:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/aadaf20e-9108-4541-8046-5afe9372da83.mp3" length="33111871" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>A very special &amp; humbling episode. This morning, Anuj cuddled in bed with his 9-year old son, and had  the most human, humbling and honest conversation about the situation in that has broken out in Gaza &amp; Israel since October 7, 2023, and what he wants for the world of tomorrow. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>13:21</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/a/aadaf20e-9108-4541-8046-5afe9372da83/cover.jpg?v=17"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;A very special &amp;amp; humbling episode. This morning, Anuj cuddled in bed with his 9-year old son, and had  the most human, humbling and honest conversation about the situation in that has broken out in Gaza &amp;amp; Israel since October 7, 2023, and what he wants for the world of tomorrow.  &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, history, science, politics, love, art, humanity, music, gaza, israel, no war, war, peace, childhood, love</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>A very special &amp; humbling episode. This morning, Anuj cuddled in bed with his 9-year old son, and had  the most human, humbling and honest conversation about the situation in that has broken out in Gaza &amp; Israel since October 7, 2023, and what he wants for the world of tomorrow. </p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>A very special &amp; humbling episode. This morning, Anuj cuddled in bed with his 9-year old son, and had  the most human, humbling and honest conversation about the situation in that has broken out in Gaza &amp; Israel since October 7, 2023, and what he wants for the world of tomorrow. </p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#021: Mugabi Byenka - "Beyond Skin"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/21-mugabi-byenkya</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">1694e1c9-efcc-478f-a588-e2184931fc28</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 04 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/1694e1c9-efcc-478f-a588-e2184931fc28.mp3" length="100804830" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Anuj sat down with poet &amp; author, Mugabi Byenkya. Audio of this conversation was thought lost, however resurrected in the end to share this wide sweeping dialogue. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>2:00:00</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/1/1694e1c9-efcc-478f-a588-e2184931fc28/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Anuj sat down with poet &amp;amp; author, Mugabi Byenkya. Audio of this conversation was thought lost, however resurrected in the end to share this wide sweeping dialogue. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Mugabi shares key experiences from his life living around the world, how his parents gave him a foundation for strength, and what it's been like to move through life's challenges, adversities and triumphs. Anuj &amp;amp; Mugabi explore biases, assumptions and reflect on the role poetry and art have played in their lives. Mugabi's positivity (and laugh) are infectious, and his travels, both internally and in the world continue.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;



&lt;p&gt;Special Guest: Mugabi Byenkya.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, history, politics, love, art, humanity, poetry, author, africa, race, health, travel</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj sat down with poet &amp; author, Mugabi Byenkya. Audio of this conversation was thought lost, however resurrected in the end to share this wide sweeping dialogue. </p>

<p>Mugabi shares key experiences from his life living around the world, how his parents gave him a foundation for strength, and what it&#39;s been like to move through life&#39;s challenges, adversities and triumphs. Anuj &amp; Mugabi explore biases, assumptions and reflect on the role poetry and art have played in their lives. Mugabi&#39;s positivity (and laugh) are infectious, and his travels, both internally and in the world continue.</p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src=""https://www.youtube.com/embed/rWZVdCjuaFg?si=ika8-3QdvvDShx_Q" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Mugabi Byenkya.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj sat down with poet &amp; author, Mugabi Byenkya. Audio of this conversation was thought lost, however resurrected in the end to share this wide sweeping dialogue. </p>

<p>Mugabi shares key experiences from his life living around the world, how his parents gave him a foundation for strength, and what it&#39;s been like to move through life&#39;s challenges, adversities and triumphs. Anuj &amp; Mugabi explore biases, assumptions and reflect on the role poetry and art have played in their lives. Mugabi&#39;s positivity (and laugh) are infectious, and his travels, both internally and in the world continue.</p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src=""https://www.youtube.com/embed/rWZVdCjuaFg?si=ika8-3QdvvDShx_Q" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Mugabi Byenkya.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#020: Shree Paradkar - "Casting Light"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/20-shree-paradkar</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">12023290-e443-4611-861c-40621067f776</guid>
  <pubDate>Mon, 10 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/12023290-e443-4611-861c-40621067f776.mp3" length="86720818" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Anuj and Shree Paradkar sit down for an unflinching conversation about race and self refection. Shree is a Toronto Star race and gender columnist, and the 2018-2019 recipient of the Atkinson Fellowship in Public Policy. Shree's writing takes on charged issues with a critical and unwaivering approach. Shree shares the role of Black feminism in her own journey, and the debt that we all owe to indigenous and black communities. Shree also raises the question of who defines the "norm" in society, and sheds light on how these challenging forces come into her world as a mother. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>59:24</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/1/12023290-e443-4611-861c-40621067f776/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Anuj and Shree Paradkar sit down for an unflinching conversation about race and self refection. Shree is a Toronto Star race and gender columnist, and the 2018-2019 recipient of the Atkinson Fellowship in Public Policy. Shree's writing takes on charged issues with a critical and unwaivering approach. Shree shares the role of Black feminism in her own journey, and the debt that we all owe to indigenous and black communities. Shree also raises the question of who defines the "norm" in society, and sheds light on how these challenging forces come into her world as a mother.  Special Guest: Shree Paradkar.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, history, politics, love, humanity, journalism, news, race, racism, feminism, Canada</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj and Shree Paradkar sit down for an unflinching conversation about race and self refection. Shree is a Toronto Star race and gender columnist, and the 2018-2019 recipient of the Atkinson Fellowship in Public Policy. Shree&#39;s writing takes on charged issues with a critical and unwaivering approach. Shree shares the role of Black feminism in her own journey, and the debt that we all owe to indigenous and black communities. Shree also raises the question of who defines the &quot;norm&quot; in society, and sheds light on how these challenging forces come into her world as a mother. </p><p>Special Guest: Shree Paradkar.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj and Shree Paradkar sit down for an unflinching conversation about race and self refection. Shree is a Toronto Star race and gender columnist, and the 2018-2019 recipient of the Atkinson Fellowship in Public Policy. Shree&#39;s writing takes on charged issues with a critical and unwaivering approach. Shree shares the role of Black feminism in her own journey, and the debt that we all owe to indigenous and black communities. Shree also raises the question of who defines the &quot;norm&quot; in society, and sheds light on how these challenging forces come into her world as a mother. </p><p>Special Guest: Shree Paradkar.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#019: G Yamazawa - "Way of The Shogun"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/19-g-yamazawa</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">ba906222-9bab-497c-97d6-aa6f47d63633</guid>
  <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2020 15:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/ba906222-9bab-497c-97d6-aa6f47d63633.mp3" length="86705968" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Anuj is joined by G Yamazawa, in this conversation deep into the COVID19 pandemic. G Yamazawa is an innovative rapper, spoken word poet and hip hop artist. Originally out of Durham, North Carolina, G is now based in Los Angeles. 

G shares a lot about his life growing up, how hip hop entered his life, and the path that spoken word poetry opened up for him to find his own voice in the world of hip hop. Anuj and G unpack life in the US at the early stages of the COVID19 pandemic, as well as the worlds of artistry, social media, creativity and evolving as an artist. This is a fresh glimpse into the mind of a prolific artist.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:00:12</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/b/ba906222-9bab-497c-97d6-aa6f47d63633/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Anuj is joined by G Yamazawa, in this conversation deep into the COVID19 pandemic. G Yamazawa is an innovative rapper, spoken word poet and hip hop artist. Originally out of Durham, North Carolina, G is now based in Los Angeles. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;G shares a lot about his life growing up, how hip hop entered his life, and the path that spoken word poetry opened up for him to find his own voice in the world of hip hop. Anuj and G unpack life in the US at the early stages of the COVID19 pandemic, as well as the worlds of artistry, social media, creativity and evolving as an artist. This is a fresh glimpse into the mind of a prolific artist.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Special Guest: G Yamazawa.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, buddhism, covid19, politics, hip hop, rap, art, humanity, music</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj is joined by G Yamazawa, in this conversation deep into the COVID19 pandemic. G Yamazawa is an innovative rapper, spoken word poet and hip hop artist. Originally out of Durham, North Carolina, G is now based in Los Angeles. </p>

<p>G shares a lot about his life growing up, how hip hop entered his life, and the path that spoken word poetry opened up for him to find his own voice in the world of hip hop. Anuj and G unpack life in the US at the early stages of the COVID19 pandemic, as well as the worlds of artistry, social media, creativity and evolving as an artist. This is a fresh glimpse into the mind of a prolific artist.</p><p>Special Guest: G Yamazawa.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj is joined by G Yamazawa, in this conversation deep into the COVID19 pandemic. G Yamazawa is an innovative rapper, spoken word poet and hip hop artist. Originally out of Durham, North Carolina, G is now based in Los Angeles. </p>

<p>G shares a lot about his life growing up, how hip hop entered his life, and the path that spoken word poetry opened up for him to find his own voice in the world of hip hop. Anuj and G unpack life in the US at the early stages of the COVID19 pandemic, as well as the worlds of artistry, social media, creativity and evolving as an artist. This is a fresh glimpse into the mind of a prolific artist.</p><p>Special Guest: G Yamazawa.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#017: Sammy Chand - "Genesis Man"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/17-sammy-chand</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">5dffb4c1-caaf-4267-889c-619a711d7482</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jan 2020 17:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/5dffb4c1-caaf-4267-889c-619a711d7482.mp3" length="88698382" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Live from DASH Radio studio in Los Angeles, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Sammy Chand. Sammy is the founder of Rukus Avenue Radio, a rapper, producer, record label exec, entrepreneur and man of the people. In this conversation, Anuj and Sammy explore the impact of Hip Hop, the genesis of Indian Hip Hop and its ties back to Sammy's group KARMACY. The two discuss identity, the evolution of music, fatherhood, the current political climate in the US and what we can do to shape the world for better. 

https://www.sammychand.com/</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:32:23</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/5/5dffb4c1-caaf-4267-889c-619a711d7482/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Live from DASH Radio studio in Los Angeles, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Sammy Chand. Sammy is the founder of Rukus Avenue Radio, a rapper, producer, record label exec, entrepreneur and man of the people. In this conversation, Anuj and Sammy explore the impact of Hip Hop, the genesis of Indian Hip Hop and its ties back to Sammy's group KARMACY. The two discuss identity, the evolution of music, fatherhood, the current political climate in the US and what we can do to shape the world for better. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.sammychand.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;https://www.sammychand.com/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qV-fAYd4RP8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt; Special Guest: Sammy Chand.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, history, science, politics, love, art, humanity</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Live from DASH Radio studio in Los Angeles, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Sammy Chand. Sammy is the founder of Rukus Avenue Radio, a rapper, producer, record label exec, entrepreneur and man of the people. In this conversation, Anuj and Sammy explore the impact of Hip Hop, the genesis of Indian Hip Hop and its ties back to Sammy&#39;s group KARMACY. The two discuss identity, the evolution of music, fatherhood, the current political climate in the US and what we can do to shape the world for better. </p>

<p><a href="https://www.sammychand.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.sammychand.com/</a></p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qV-fAYd4RP8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Sammy Chand.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Live from DASH Radio studio in Los Angeles, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Sammy Chand. Sammy is the founder of Rukus Avenue Radio, a rapper, producer, record label exec, entrepreneur and man of the people. In this conversation, Anuj and Sammy explore the impact of Hip Hop, the genesis of Indian Hip Hop and its ties back to Sammy&#39;s group KARMACY. The two discuss identity, the evolution of music, fatherhood, the current political climate in the US and what we can do to shape the world for better. </p>

<p><a href="https://www.sammychand.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.sammychand.com/</a></p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qV-fAYd4RP8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Sammy Chand.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#015: Shantanu Pujari - "Hip Hop India"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/015-shantanu-pujari</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">89339e1e-2495-48b9-aeb5-9202dae101d7</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 13 Nov 2019 20:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/89339e1e-2495-48b9-aeb5-9202dae101d7.mp3" length="81045131" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Anuj Rastogi reconnects with Shantanu Pujari, a multi-talented artist and fighter. Shantanu is a professional competitive mixed martial arts fighter, yoga instructor, action director for film, activist, b-boy, beatboxer and hip hop label artist manager. Shantanu is also the host of the "Shakahari Show" on Rukus Avenue Radio. Shantanu shares his incredible personal journey, and a deep respect and knowledge of the history of Hip Hop as well as India. This conversation is an inspiring and exciting journey through the eyes of India's youth which is on course to transform the country and the world in positive ways. 
 </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:24:25</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/8/89339e1e-2495-48b9-aeb5-9202dae101d7/cover.jpg?v=4"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Anuj Rastogi reconnects with Shantanu Pujari, a multi-talented artist and fighter. Shantanu is a professional competitive mixed martial arts fighter, yoga instructor, action director for film, activist, b-boy, beatboxer and hip hop label artist manager. Shantanu is also the host of the "Shakahari Show" on Rukus Avenue Radio. Shantanu shares his incredible personal journey, and a deep respect and knowledge of the history of Hip Hop as well as India. This conversation is an inspiring and exciting journey through the eyes of India's youth which is on course to transform the country and the world in positive ways. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;

&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UiuRPO0E3wE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Here, quite literally is how Shantanu and Anuj met...&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b6UxmevXKTM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

&lt;p&gt;And here's Shantanu in action...&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5JNoSjN6v2U" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt; Special Guest: Shantanu Pujari.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>film, hip hop, humanity, gully boy, india, inspiration, mumbai, music, mma, muay thai, kickboxing, yoga, martial arts, history, fight, action, bollywood, politics, spiritual</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj Rastogi reconnects with Shantanu Pujari, a multi-talented artist and fighter. Shantanu is a professional competitive mixed martial arts fighter, yoga instructor, action director for film, activist, b-boy, beatboxer and hip hop label artist manager. Shantanu is also the host of the &quot;Shakahari Show&quot; on Rukus Avenue Radio. Shantanu shares his incredible personal journey, and a deep respect and knowledge of the history of Hip Hop as well as India. This conversation is an inspiring and exciting journey through the eyes of India&#39;s youth which is on course to transform the country and the world in positive ways. </p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UiuRPO0E3wE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<p>Here, quite literally is how Shantanu and Anuj met...</p>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b6UxmevXKTM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<p>And here&#39;s Shantanu in action...</p>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5JNoSjN6v2U" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Shantanu Pujari.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj Rastogi reconnects with Shantanu Pujari, a multi-talented artist and fighter. Shantanu is a professional competitive mixed martial arts fighter, yoga instructor, action director for film, activist, b-boy, beatboxer and hip hop label artist manager. Shantanu is also the host of the &quot;Shakahari Show&quot; on Rukus Avenue Radio. Shantanu shares his incredible personal journey, and a deep respect and knowledge of the history of Hip Hop as well as India. This conversation is an inspiring and exciting journey through the eyes of India&#39;s youth which is on course to transform the country and the world in positive ways. </p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UiuRPO0E3wE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<p>Here, quite literally is how Shantanu and Anuj met...</p>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b6UxmevXKTM" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<p>And here&#39;s Shantanu in action...</p>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5JNoSjN6v2U" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Shantanu Pujari.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#014: Sangita Patel - "Leading Rainbow"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/014-sangita-patel</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">fd57aefd-a629-4d59-905e-633f05c2734a</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 26 Sep 2019 16:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/fd57aefd-a629-4d59-905e-633f05c2734a.mp3" length="77474921" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>2</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Live in Los Angeles, California (well, Orange County actually) Anuj Rastogi sits down with Sangita Patel, entrepreneur, tech leader and the CEO of LeVar Burton Kids. Sangita shares her jouney in America, finding a place in a world that was only black or white, and what she's learned in her remarkable life and career. Sangita also shares her journey working with one of the most inspiring men in the world, LeVar Burton, and the journey from Reading Rainbow to LeVar Burton Kids. The conversation wanders through race, society, the American dream, and what we can learn from our kids, as well as what we can do to shape the world through dialogue, books, literature and sharing the human experience through art that reflects the world.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:47:35</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/f/fd57aefd-a629-4d59-905e-633f05c2734a/cover.jpg?v=4"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Live in Los Angeles, California (well, Orange County actually) Anuj Rastogi sits down with Sangita Patel, entrepreneur, tech leader and the CEO of LeVar Burton Kids. Sangita shares her jouney in America, finding a place in a world that was only black or white, and what she's learned in her remarkable life and career. Sangita also shares her journey working with one of the most inspiring men in the world, LeVar Burton, and the journey from Reading Rainbow to LeVar Burton Kids. The conversation wanders through race, society, the American dream, and what we can learn from our kids, as well as what we can do to shape the world through dialogue, books, literature and sharing the human experience through art that reflects the world.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;

&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gb0PqDV3ouU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Special Guest: Sangita Patel.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Live in Los Angeles, California (well, Orange County actually) Anuj Rastogi sits down with Sangita Patel, entrepreneur, tech leader and the CEO of LeVar Burton Kids. Sangita shares her jouney in America, finding a place in a world that was only black or white, and what she&#39;s learned in her remarkable life and career. Sangita also shares her journey working with one of the most inspiring men in the world, LeVar Burton, and the journey from Reading Rainbow to LeVar Burton Kids. The conversation wanders through race, society, the American dream, and what we can learn from our kids, as well as what we can do to shape the world through dialogue, books, literature and sharing the human experience through art that reflects the world.</p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gb0PqDV3ouU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Sangita Patel.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Live in Los Angeles, California (well, Orange County actually) Anuj Rastogi sits down with Sangita Patel, entrepreneur, tech leader and the CEO of LeVar Burton Kids. Sangita shares her jouney in America, finding a place in a world that was only black or white, and what she&#39;s learned in her remarkable life and career. Sangita also shares her journey working with one of the most inspiring men in the world, LeVar Burton, and the journey from Reading Rainbow to LeVar Burton Kids. The conversation wanders through race, society, the American dream, and what we can learn from our kids, as well as what we can do to shape the world through dialogue, books, literature and sharing the human experience through art that reflects the world.</p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gb0PqDV3ouU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Sangita Patel.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#012: Ali A. Rizvi - "Of Myth &amp; Legends"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/012-ali-rizvi</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">2bf1d492-b012-48fa-bd7e-23c309a804ee</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jul 2019 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/2bf1d492-b012-48fa-bd7e-23c309a804ee.mp3" length="94991444" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Anuj sits down with Ali A. Rizvi back in the AwokenWord studio. Ali is an author, speaker, and musician who grew up in Libya, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan before moving to the US and eventually Canada at the age of 24.  Anuj and Ali discuss his background, life experiences growing up, the insights Ali gleaned in working with the dead, science,  and religion. They dive deep into the challenges and questions unanswered by religion, the history and impact of religion on human cultural evolution, and the role that spirituality may or may not play in our lives, as well as the beauty of wonder and fatherhood and everyday life. The conversation turns to the current US Democratic primaries and the role of politics, identity, populism and social forces shaping the world today.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>2:10:15</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/2/2bf1d492-b012-48fa-bd7e-23c309a804ee/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Anuj sits down with Ali Rizvi back in the AwokenWord studio. Ali is an author, speaker, and musician who grew up in Libya, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan before moving to the US, and eventually Canada at the age of 24. Rizvi has been writing extensively about secularism in the Muslim world for several years, contributing to The Huffington Post, Quillette and  major media outlets like CNN. Rizvi is also a medical communications professional and a trained physician and oncologic pathologist.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Ali's book &lt;em&gt;The Athiest Muslim&lt;/em&gt; has been widely read, translated and acclaimed as an important book in a world increasingly wrestling with religion and secularism, including high profile reviews such as that by Karim Abdul Jabbar. Ali is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular podcast, &lt;em&gt;Secular Jihadists&lt;/em&gt;, which tackles issues, events and stories through conversation with people from all over the world.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Anuj and Ali discuss his background, life experiences growing up, the insights Ali gleaned in working with the dead, science,  and religion. They dive deep into the challenges and questions unanswered by religion, the history and impact of religion on human cultural evolution, and the role that spirituality may or may not play in our lives, as well as the beauty of wonder and fatherhood and everyday life. The conversation turns to the current US Democratic primaries and the role of politics, identity, populism and social forces shaping the world today.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;The Athiest Muslim&lt;/strong&gt; &lt;br&gt;
&lt;a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250094445/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250094445/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Secular Jihadists Podcast&lt;/strong&gt; &lt;br&gt;
&lt;a href="https://secularjihadists.libsyn.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;https://secularjihadists.libsyn.com/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lEtOmefqt94" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt; Special Guest: Ali A. Rizvi.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, society, culture, world, history, science, politics, love, art, humanity, metoo, joe rogan, evolution, death, religion, democrats, fatherhood</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj sits down with Ali Rizvi back in the AwokenWord studio. Ali is an author, speaker, and musician who grew up in Libya, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan before moving to the US, and eventually Canada at the age of 24. Rizvi has been writing extensively about secularism in the Muslim world for several years, contributing to The Huffington Post, Quillette and  major media outlets like CNN. Rizvi is also a medical communications professional and a trained physician and oncologic pathologist.</p>

<p>Ali&#39;s book <em>The Athiest Muslim</em> has been widely read, translated and acclaimed as an important book in a world increasingly wrestling with religion and secularism, including high profile reviews such as that by Karim Abdul Jabbar. Ali is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular podcast, <em>Secular Jihadists</em>, which tackles issues, events and stories through conversation with people from all over the world.</p>

<p>Anuj and Ali discuss his background, life experiences growing up, the insights Ali gleaned in working with the dead, science,  and religion. They dive deep into the challenges and questions unanswered by religion, the history and impact of religion on human cultural evolution, and the role that spirituality may or may not play in our lives, as well as the beauty of wonder and fatherhood and everyday life. The conversation turns to the current US Democratic primaries and the role of politics, identity, populism and social forces shaping the world today.</p>

<p><strong>The Athiest Muslim</strong> <br>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250094445/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250094445/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0</a></p>

<p><strong>Secular Jihadists Podcast</strong> <br>
<a href="https://secularjihadists.libsyn.com/" rel="nofollow">https://secularjihadists.libsyn.com/</a></p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lEtOmefqt94" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Ali A. Rizvi.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj sits down with Ali Rizvi back in the AwokenWord studio. Ali is an author, speaker, and musician who grew up in Libya, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan before moving to the US, and eventually Canada at the age of 24. Rizvi has been writing extensively about secularism in the Muslim world for several years, contributing to The Huffington Post, Quillette and  major media outlets like CNN. Rizvi is also a medical communications professional and a trained physician and oncologic pathologist.</p>

<p>Ali&#39;s book <em>The Athiest Muslim</em> has been widely read, translated and acclaimed as an important book in a world increasingly wrestling with religion and secularism, including high profile reviews such as that by Karim Abdul Jabbar. Ali is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular podcast, <em>Secular Jihadists</em>, which tackles issues, events and stories through conversation with people from all over the world.</p>

<p>Anuj and Ali discuss his background, life experiences growing up, the insights Ali gleaned in working with the dead, science,  and religion. They dive deep into the challenges and questions unanswered by religion, the history and impact of religion on human cultural evolution, and the role that spirituality may or may not play in our lives, as well as the beauty of wonder and fatherhood and everyday life. The conversation turns to the current US Democratic primaries and the role of politics, identity, populism and social forces shaping the world today.</p>

<p><strong>The Athiest Muslim</strong> <br>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250094445/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250094445/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0</a></p>

<p><strong>Secular Jihadists Podcast</strong> <br>
<a href="https://secularjihadists.libsyn.com/" rel="nofollow">https://secularjihadists.libsyn.com/</a></p>

<hr>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lEtOmefqt94" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Ali A. Rizvi.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#011: Lisa Fitzpatrick - "Open Your Door" </title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/011-lisa-fitzpatrick</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">23bf99c5-51f6-49cf-b02d-1c0c2247bcc1</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 13 Jun 2019 00:30:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/23bf99c5-51f6-49cf-b02d-1c0c2247bcc1.mp3" length="80345049" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Live from SXSW EDU, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Lisa Fitzpatrick, co-founder of the APEX Youth Center based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Lisa shared the stage as the opening keynote in SXSW EDU 2019. Lisa's story is a rare glimpse into the mind of a true hero who overcomes incredible trauma and build a life of humanity and compassion. Lisa shares her personal journey from tragically falling victim in a random act of violence to devoting her life and efforts to welcoming the community quite literally into her home. Lisa shares the story behind founding a community organization that has changed the lives for over 1,200 youth to date, and how her experience as a pastor, a business executive, and mother has shaped her incredible contributions to the world. 
</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:23:41</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/2/23bf99c5-51f6-49cf-b02d-1c0c2247bcc1/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Live from SXSW EDU, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Lisa Fitzpatrick, co-founder of the APEX Youth Center based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Lisa shared the stage as the opening keynote in SXSW EDU 2019. Lisa is a past CNN Hero, and her story is a rare glimpse into the mind of someone who overcomes incredible trauma and builds a life of humanity and compassion. Lisa shares her personal journey from tragically falling victim in a random act of violence to devoting her life and efforts to welcoming the community quite literally into her home. Lisa shares the story behind founding a community organization that has changed the lives for over 1,200 youth to date, and how her experience as a pastor, a business executive, and mother has shaped her incredible contributions to the world. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Learn more about Lisa, and the incredible work of her team are doing at &lt;a href="https://www.apexyouthcenter.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;https://www.apexyouthcenter.org/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7kOJonNxXIc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt; Special Guest: Lisa Fitzpatrick.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, history, religion, politics, love, humanity, new orleans, america, SXSW, SXSW EDU, APEX Youth Center, David Brooks, Darius Baxter, gun violence, gangs, prison, system, CNN</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Live from SXSW EDU, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Lisa Fitzpatrick, co-founder of the APEX Youth Center based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Lisa shared the stage as the opening keynote in SXSW EDU 2019. Lisa is a past CNN Hero, and her story is a rare glimpse into the mind of someone who overcomes incredible trauma and builds a life of humanity and compassion. Lisa shares her personal journey from tragically falling victim in a random act of violence to devoting her life and efforts to welcoming the community quite literally into her home. Lisa shares the story behind founding a community organization that has changed the lives for over 1,200 youth to date, and how her experience as a pastor, a business executive, and mother has shaped her incredible contributions to the world. </p>

<p>Learn more about Lisa, and the incredible work of her team are doing at <a href="https://www.apexyouthcenter.org/" rel="nofollow">https://www.apexyouthcenter.org/</a></p>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7kOJonNxXIc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Lisa Fitzpatrick.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Live from SXSW EDU, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Lisa Fitzpatrick, co-founder of the APEX Youth Center based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Lisa shared the stage as the opening keynote in SXSW EDU 2019. Lisa is a past CNN Hero, and her story is a rare glimpse into the mind of someone who overcomes incredible trauma and builds a life of humanity and compassion. Lisa shares her personal journey from tragically falling victim in a random act of violence to devoting her life and efforts to welcoming the community quite literally into her home. Lisa shares the story behind founding a community organization that has changed the lives for over 1,200 youth to date, and how her experience as a pastor, a business executive, and mother has shaped her incredible contributions to the world. </p>

<p>Learn more about Lisa, and the incredible work of her team are doing at <a href="https://www.apexyouthcenter.org/" rel="nofollow">https://www.apexyouthcenter.org/</a></p>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7kOJonNxXIc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Lisa Fitzpatrick.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#010: Darius Baxter - "Be The Change" </title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/010-darius-baxter</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">5d91f18b-1021-49dd-bddf-936c6a4280ee</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 14 Apr 2019 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/5d91f18b-1021-49dd-bddf-936c6a4280ee.mp3" length="91893260" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Live from SXSW EDU, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Darius Baxter, co-founder of GOODProjects based in Washington DC. Darius shared the stage as the opening keynote in SXSW EDU 2019. He is an incredibly inspiring leader, and shares his personal journey from tragically losing his father at age 9, to being raised by a strong mother, and the choices he made between pursuing a Wall Street career and serving the community, modern political life in America, inspiring new generations, and being the change in action. 

one of the country's most prolific event producers, as well as a talented author, speaker and poet. Anuj and Dwayne dive deep into many important territories, from Race, the experience of being black in this world, creating spaces and platforms for others to shine, being a man, fatherhood, sociopolitical polarization, the importance of self love, and paying it forward.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:03:48</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/5/5d91f18b-1021-49dd-bddf-936c6a4280ee/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Live from SXSW EDU, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Darius Baxter, co-founder of GOODProjects based in Washington DC. Darius shared the stage as the opening keynote in SXSW EDU 2019. He is an incredibly inspiring leader, and shares his personal journey from tragically losing his father at age 9, to being raised by a strong mother, and the choices he made between pursuing a Wall Street career and serving the community, modern political life in America, inspiring new generations, and being the change in action. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Learn more about Darius, and the incredible work of his co-founders Troye and Danny and team at &lt;a href="https://goodprojects.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;https://goodprojects.org/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Video Excerpt&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sUt4k7mBof8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt; Special Guest: Darius Baxter.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, history, science, politics, love, humanity, washington, america, SXSW, SXSW EDU, GOODProjects, David Brooks, Lisa Fitzpatrick, gun violence</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Live from SXSW EDU, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Darius Baxter, co-founder of GOODProjects based in Washington DC. Darius shared the stage as the opening keynote in SXSW EDU 2019. He is an incredibly inspiring leader, and shares his personal journey from tragically losing his father at age 9, to being raised by a strong mother, and the choices he made between pursuing a Wall Street career and serving the community, modern political life in America, inspiring new generations, and being the change in action. </p>

<p>Learn more about Darius, and the incredible work of his co-founders Troye and Danny and team at <a href="https://goodprojects.org/" rel="nofollow">https://goodprojects.org/</a></p>

<p><strong>Video Excerpt</strong></p>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sUt4k7mBof8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Darius Baxter.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Live from SXSW EDU, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Darius Baxter, co-founder of GOODProjects based in Washington DC. Darius shared the stage as the opening keynote in SXSW EDU 2019. He is an incredibly inspiring leader, and shares his personal journey from tragically losing his father at age 9, to being raised by a strong mother, and the choices he made between pursuing a Wall Street career and serving the community, modern political life in America, inspiring new generations, and being the change in action. </p>

<p>Learn more about Darius, and the incredible work of his co-founders Troye and Danny and team at <a href="https://goodprojects.org/" rel="nofollow">https://goodprojects.org/</a></p>

<p><strong>Video Excerpt</strong></p>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sUt4k7mBof8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><p>Special Guest: Darius Baxter.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#007: Jeff Perera - "Mankind. Kind Men"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/007-jeff-perera</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">f75cbcba-142e-4aa3-bc2f-6fba287026d3</guid>
  <pubDate>Sat, 19 Jan 2019 01:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/f75cbcba-142e-4aa3-bc2f-6fba287026d3.mp3" length="92111066" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi is joined by Jeff Perera, public speaker, motivator and leading voice in the evolution of our perceptions of manhood, masculinity and empathy. A well-respected voice, TEDx speaker and writer, Jeff has been devoted to the cause long before the #metoo movement, and polarizing ads such as that from Gillette, were in the public consciousness. Anuj and Jeff explore both very personal and collective experiences on issues of self reflection as men, self-love, as well as the related conversations on race, and our current political climate.   </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>2:33:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/f/f75cbcba-142e-4aa3-bc2f-6fba287026d3/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;Anuj Rastogi is sits down with Jeff Perera, public speaker, motivator and leading voice in the evolution of our perceptions of manhood, masculinity and empathy. A well-respected voice, TEDx speaker and writer, Jeff has been devoted to the cause long before the #metoo movement, and polarizing ads such as that from Gillette, were in the public consciousness. Anuj and Jeff explore both very personal and collective experiences on issues of self reflection as men, self-love, as well as the related conversations on race, and our current political climate.    Special Guest: Jeff Perera.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>conversation, interview, human, society, culture, world, history, science, politics, love, hip hop, humanity, gillette, #metoo, #womensmarch, masculinity, manhood, men, toxic masculinity, gentleman</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj Rastogi is sits down with Jeff Perera, public speaker, motivator and leading voice in the evolution of our perceptions of manhood, masculinity and empathy. A well-respected voice, TEDx speaker and writer, Jeff has been devoted to the cause long before the #metoo movement, and polarizing ads such as that from Gillette, were in the public consciousness. Anuj and Jeff explore both very personal and collective experiences on issues of self reflection as men, self-love, as well as the related conversations on race, and our current political climate.   </p><p>Special Guest: Jeff Perera.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Anuj Rastogi is sits down with Jeff Perera, public speaker, motivator and leading voice in the evolution of our perceptions of manhood, masculinity and empathy. A well-respected voice, TEDx speaker and writer, Jeff has been devoted to the cause long before the #metoo movement, and polarizing ads such as that from Gillette, were in the public consciousness. Anuj and Jeff explore both very personal and collective experiences on issues of self reflection as men, self-love, as well as the related conversations on race, and our current political climate.   </p><p>Special Guest: Jeff Perera.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#006: Dwayne Morgan - "The Race To Pay It Forward"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/006-dwayne-morgan</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">53db96d5-8ca7-4669-bf9f-289455b90668</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 26 Dec 2018 20:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/53db96d5-8ca7-4669-bf9f-289455b90668.mp3" length="90655972" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Dwayne Morgan, one of the country's most prolific event producers, as well as a talented author, speaker and poet. Anuj and Dwayne dive deep into many important territories, from Race, the experience of being black in this world, creating spaces and platforms for others to shine, being a man, fatherhood, sociopolitical polarization, the importance of self love, and paying it forward.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:46:19</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/5/53db96d5-8ca7-4669-bf9f-289455b90668/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;In today's AwokenWord episode, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Dwayne Morgan, one of the country's most prolific event producers, as well as a talented author, speaker and poet. Anuj and Dwayne dive deep into many important territories, from race, the experience of being black in this world, creating spaces and platforms for others to shine, to being a man, fatherhood, sociopolitical polarization, the importance of self love, and paying it forward. Special Guest: Dwayne Morgan.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>dwayne morgan, poet, manhood, masculinity, black lives matter, black, race, racism, politics, love,when brothers speak, when sisters speak</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>In today&#39;s AwokenWord episode, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Dwayne Morgan, one of the country&#39;s most prolific event producers, as well as a talented author, speaker and poet. Anuj and Dwayne dive deep into many important territories, from race, the experience of being black in this world, creating spaces and platforms for others to shine, to being a man, fatherhood, sociopolitical polarization, the importance of self love, and paying it forward.</p><p>Special Guest: Dwayne Morgan.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>In today&#39;s AwokenWord episode, Anuj Rastogi sits down with Dwayne Morgan, one of the country&#39;s most prolific event producers, as well as a talented author, speaker and poet. Anuj and Dwayne dive deep into many important territories, from race, the experience of being black in this world, creating spaces and platforms for others to shine, to being a man, fatherhood, sociopolitical polarization, the importance of self love, and paying it forward.</p><p>Special Guest: Dwayne Morgan.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#005: IF The Poet - "Renaissance Reincarnated"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/005-ian-french</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">d6acad17-f6f8-49d8-8919-0896169af7cd</guid>
  <pubDate>Sat, 03 Nov 2018 15:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/d6acad17-f6f8-49d8-8919-0896169af7cd.mp3" length="100333393" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi talks to Ian French, popularly known as "IF The Poet" and finalist in the 2015 World Slam Poetry championship in Paris. Ian has been the subject of a CBC documentary, and is a respected performer whose work spans the breadth of our collective, and individual human experiences. Anuj and Ian talk at length about the state of the world today, poetry, the journey of creativity, masculinity in today's world, being honest, the nuances of identity politics and political correctness, self-love and the importance of knowing your own story.

[*NOTE: Though planned at the time of this recording, Ian ultimately pulled out of present at the 2018 "Men and Masculinity Summit" in Toronto, for specific concerns of his own regarding a decision for this year's sumit. He's continued to be a supporter of the summit, and the cause.]</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>2:18:07</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/d/d6acad17-f6f8-49d8-8919-0896169af7cd/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi talks to Ian French, popularly known as "IF The Poet" and finalist in the 2015 World Slam Poetry championship in Paris. Ian has been the subject of a CBC documentary, and is a respected performer whose work spans the breadth of our collective, and individual human experiences. Anuj and Ian talk at length about the state of the world today, poetry, the journey of creativity, masculinity in today's world, being honest, the nuances of identity politics and political correctness, self-love and the importance of knowing your own story.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;[*NOTE: Though planned at the time of this recording, Ian ultimately pulled out of present at the 2018 "Men and Masculinity Summit" in Toronto, for specific concerns of his own regarding a decision for this year's sumit. He's continued to be a supporter of the summit, and the cause.]&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Special Guest: Ian French.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi talks to Ian French, popularly known as &quot;IF The Poet&quot; and finalist in the 2015 World Slam Poetry championship in Paris. Ian has been the subject of a CBC documentary, and is a respected performer whose work spans the breadth of our collective, and individual human experiences. Anuj and Ian talk at length about the state of the world today, poetry, the journey of creativity, masculinity in today&#39;s world, being honest, the nuances of identity politics and political correctness, self-love and the importance of knowing your own story.</p>

<p>[*NOTE: Though planned at the time of this recording, Ian ultimately pulled out of present at the 2018 &quot;Men and Masculinity Summit&quot; in Toronto, for specific concerns of his own regarding a decision for this year&#39;s sumit. He&#39;s continued to be a supporter of the summit, and the cause.]</p><p>Special Guest: Ian French.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi talks to Ian French, popularly known as &quot;IF The Poet&quot; and finalist in the 2015 World Slam Poetry championship in Paris. Ian has been the subject of a CBC documentary, and is a respected performer whose work spans the breadth of our collective, and individual human experiences. Anuj and Ian talk at length about the state of the world today, poetry, the journey of creativity, masculinity in today&#39;s world, being honest, the nuances of identity politics and political correctness, self-love and the importance of knowing your own story.</p>

<p>[*NOTE: Though planned at the time of this recording, Ian ultimately pulled out of present at the 2018 &quot;Men and Masculinity Summit&quot; in Toronto, for specific concerns of his own regarding a decision for this year&#39;s sumit. He&#39;s continued to be a supporter of the summit, and the cause.]</p><p>Special Guest: Ian French.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#003: Raheel Raza - "Religion &amp; the Real World"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/003-raheel-raza</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">7403928c-841e-47ca-907a-dd27733f43b7</guid>
  <pubDate>Thu, 01 Nov 2018 15:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/7403928c-841e-47ca-907a-dd27733f43b7.mp3" length="86491419" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi speaks with Raheel Raza, author, speaker, and incredibly fierce activist and advocate for reform within the Muslim world. Raheel talks about her experience as a muslim, and a woman pushing for reformation within the community, and for open, honest dialogue. Raheel speaks about her work with youth, with the UN Human Rights Commission, and the crisis of an increasingly polarized world, and how difficult it can be to call a "spade a spade" in a climate where both sides of the political spectrum take issue with one's views without engaging in that dialogue.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:28:35</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/7/7403928c-841e-47ca-907a-dd27733f43b7/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;In today's episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi speaks with Raheel Raza, author, speaker, and incredibly fierce activist and advocate for reform within the Muslim world. Raheel talks about her experience as a muslim, and a woman pushing for reformation within the community, and for open, honest dialogue. Raheel speaks about her work with youth, with the UN Human Rights Commission, and the crisis of an increasingly polarized world, and how difficult it can be to call a "spade a spade" in a climate where both sides of the political spectrum take issue with one's views without engaging in that dialogue. Special Guest: Raheel Raza.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>raheel, raza, pakistani, muslim, islam, politics, culture, religion, multiculturalism, feminism</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>In today&#39;s episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi speaks with Raheel Raza, author, speaker, and incredibly fierce activist and advocate for reform within the Muslim world. Raheel talks about her experience as a muslim, and a woman pushing for reformation within the community, and for open, honest dialogue. Raheel speaks about her work with youth, with the UN Human Rights Commission, and the crisis of an increasingly polarized world, and how difficult it can be to call a &quot;spade a spade&quot; in a climate where both sides of the political spectrum take issue with one&#39;s views without engaging in that dialogue.</p><p>Special Guest: Raheel Raza.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>In today&#39;s episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi speaks with Raheel Raza, author, speaker, and incredibly fierce activist and advocate for reform within the Muslim world. Raheel talks about her experience as a muslim, and a woman pushing for reformation within the community, and for open, honest dialogue. Raheel speaks about her work with youth, with the UN Human Rights Commission, and the crisis of an increasingly polarized world, and how difficult it can be to call a &quot;spade a spade&quot; in a climate where both sides of the political spectrum take issue with one&#39;s views without engaging in that dialogue.</p><p>Special Guest: Raheel Raza.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>#002: Raj Sharma - "Home"</title>
  <link>https://www.awokenword.com/002-raj-sharma</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">724ea205-ebda-49ca-a328-998304ec8862</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 31 Oct 2018 15:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Anuj Rastogi</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/724ea205-ebda-49ca-a328-998304ec8862.mp3" length="67175628" type="audio/mp3"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
  <itunes:author>Anuj Rastogi</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi talks to Raj Sharma, one of Canada's leading refugee lawyers. Raj talks about his experience as a refugee protection officer, as a refugee and immigration lawyer in the context of the current migrant crisis in the US, and potential impact on Canada. Anuj and Raj discuss the concept of home itself, what it means to leave home, and what it means to find a new place to call home. The conversation makes timely reference in the context of a rise in political polarization, brexit, far-right fears and increasing globalization. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:09:01</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/8/830abd44-bbc9-43c3-b398-6883da3dcdb2/episodes/7/724ea205-ebda-49ca-a328-998304ec8862/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi talks to Raj Sharma, one of Canada's leading refugee lawyers. Raj talks about his experience as a refugee protection officer, as a refugee and immigration lawyer in the context of the current migrant crisis in the US, and potential impact on Canada. Anuj and Raj discuss the concept of home itself, what it means to leave home, and what it means to find a new place to call home. The conversation makes timely reference in the context of a rise in political polarization, brexit, far-right fears and increasing globalization.  Special Guest: Raj Sharma.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>raj sharma, lawyer, refugees, immigration, migrants, home, politics, society, brexit</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi talks to Raj Sharma, one of Canada&#39;s leading refugee lawyers. Raj talks about his experience as a refugee protection officer, as a refugee and immigration lawyer in the context of the current migrant crisis in the US, and potential impact on Canada. Anuj and Raj discuss the concept of home itself, what it means to leave home, and what it means to find a new place to call home. The conversation makes timely reference in the context of a rise in political polarization, brexit, far-right fears and increasing globalization. </p><p>Special Guest: Raj Sharma.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of the AwokenWord podcast, Anuj Rastogi talks to Raj Sharma, one of Canada&#39;s leading refugee lawyers. Raj talks about his experience as a refugee protection officer, as a refugee and immigration lawyer in the context of the current migrant crisis in the US, and potential impact on Canada. Anuj and Raj discuss the concept of home itself, what it means to leave home, and what it means to find a new place to call home. The conversation makes timely reference in the context of a rise in political polarization, brexit, far-right fears and increasing globalization. </p><p>Special Guest: Raj Sharma.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
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