Roqe
Roqe is a conversation-driven podcast about the Iranian diaspora, its culture, identity and politics, told from the perspective of Iranians living outside Iran. It is hosted by Jian Ghomeshi, the Iranian-Canadian broadcaster and former CBC radio host, who talks with artists, writers, activists, musicians and other figures from the global Iranian community. Episodes mix personal stories with commentary on current events, migration and belonging. The show is produced by Roqe Global Media and released in English.
Episodes
Roqe Ep. 463 - David Shekamoo, Roqe Roundup
On this edition of Roqe, Jian is joined by David Marino, better known as David Shekamoo - the American chef, foodie and content creator who has built a huge following by diving headfirst into Persian food and culture.
Joining from Dubai, David tells the unlikely and very funny story of how an American guy married into an Iranian family and gradually became, well...very Persian. From his first enco
Roqe Ep. 462 - Seeking Unity: Kam Mahinsa, Shiva Negar
A new edition of Roqe begins with a pointed opening essay from Jian ahead of Mehregan: "Iran Didn't Start in 1979." Jian argues that ancient Iranian celebrations are not simply exercises in diaspora nostalgia, but acts of historical continuity - reminders that Iranian civilization stretches back thousands of years and cannot be defined by the 47 years of the Islamic Republic.
Then, two special gu
Roqe Ep. 461 - Ramtin Ari, Roqe Roundup
Roqe Ep. 461 features Iranian-Canadian content creator and actor Ramtin Ari in the Roqe Studio for one of his first major feature interviews in English. Ramtin joins Jian for a candid conversation about growing up Iranian in Canada, his extraordinary connection to Iran, becoming a social media phenomenon, the psychology of online fame, confidence and insecurity, and who he is when the cameras are
Roqe Ep. 460 - Elnaaz Norouzi, Roqe Roundup
A new season of Roqe begins with Iranian-born Bollywood star and international actor Elnaaz Norouzi.
Elnaaz joins Jian to discuss her remarkable journey from Iran and a refugee camp in Germany to Bollywood stardom and now Hollywood - as well as identity, belonging, ambition, and her new film The Fix, alongside Liam Neeson and Zachary Levi, opening September 11.
Plus, Pegah Ganji returns with the
Roqe Ep. 459 - The Growth of Cinema in Pahlavi-era Iran - Dr. Kaveh Askari
How did Iran become one of the world's great cinematic cultures?
In this special pre-taped edition of Roqe, Jian revisits a fascinating conversation with Dr. Kaveh Askari about the remarkable growth of cinema in Iran during the Pahlavi era - and the complicated relationship between Hollywood, Persian culture and the emerging Iranian film industry.
Askari, a film scholar and author of Relaying Ci
Roqe Ep. 458 - Kamyar - Redux
A special end-of-summer Redux edition of Roqe featuring one of our favourite conversations with one of the defining voices of modern Persian pop music.
Jian revisits his 2023 interview with Kamyar - the Iranian-French singer, songwriter and musician whose journey has taken him from Tehran to Paris, the Sorbonne, Los Angeles, the legendary Black Cats, and ultimately a successful solo career.
Kamy
Roqe Ep. 457 - Soleyman (Soley) Vaseghi - Redux
A special end-of-summer Redux edition of Roqe featuring one of our most memorable conversations with a true legend of Iranian music.
Jian revisits his 2022 interview with Soleyman "Soley" Vaseghi - the Iranian singer, composer and songwriter whose remarkable life has taken him from pop stardom in pre-revolutionary Iran to exile, immigration, and a musical reinvention rooted in Persian poetry, spi
Roqe Ep. 456 - "Enough Already!" - Sara Rahimi
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
Roqe Ep. 455 - Survival Is Not Victory - Lisa Daftari, Shayan Sami'i
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 D
Roqe Ep.454 - Vessbroz
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, ex
Roqe Ep. 453 - ROQE LIVE 6! - Shahram Shabpareh Honoured, Tina Parsa, Gdaal, Shally Zomorodi & More
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 jo
Roqe Ep. 452 - Should Canada Return to Tehran? - Avideh Motmaenfar, Ardershir Zarezadeh
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
Roqe Ep. 451 - The Funeral as a Weapon - Bozorgmehr Sharafedin
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?
Roqe Ep. 450 - IRAN RISES - Bijan Kian, Shahram Kholdi
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 Republi
Roqe Ep. 449 - IRAN RISES - Ramin Zamani
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 o
Roqe Ep. 448 - IRAN RISES - Ehsan Karami
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,
Roqe Ep. 447 - Memorandom of Undermining - Shayan Sami'i, Picasso Moin, Kiarash Kian
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 re
Roqe Ep. 446 - IRAN RISES - After the First Match - Atbin Arian, Seena Ghaznavi, Mehrdad Ahmadpour
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 I
Roqe Ep. 445 - IRAN RISES - The Game They're Playing - Ahmad Batebi, Shahram Kholdi
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 stag
Roqe Ep. 444 - IRAN RISES - The FIFA Follies - Atbin Arian, Shayan Sami’i
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, nation
Roqe Ep. 443 - IRAN RISES - Who Let the Mullahs In? - Sadeq Bigdeli, Mehran Aminian, Avideh Motmaenfar
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 ha
Roqe Ep. 442 - IRAN RISES - It's Okay to Laugh - Amir Arfa, Pouya Comedy
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 reg
Roqe Ep. 441 - IRAN RISES - Why the Prolonged Pause? - Bozorgmehr Sharafedin, Lisa Daftari
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
Roqe Ep. 440 - IRAN RISES - We Are Not Okay - Melica Bokaie, Bahador Alast
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 N
Roqe Ep. 439 - IRAN RISES - Can China Decide Iran's Future? - Shahram Kholdi, Shayan Sami'i
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 futur
Roqe Ep. 438 - IRAN RISES - Do We Return to “Normal” - Or Not Yet? - Panel
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 ent
Roqe Ep. 437 - IRAN RISES - Lion & Sun Revolution: Stalled or Still Alive? Bijan Kian, Pantea Modiri
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?
J
Roqe Ep. 436 - IRAN RISES - Should Iran be Banned from World Cup 2026? - Panel Debate
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
Roqe Ep. 435 - IRAN RISES - Who Benefits from the Delay? - Shayan Sami'i, Picasso Moin
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 t
Roqe Ep. 434 - IRAN RISES - The Role of Alternative Media - Nazenin Ansari, Andy Alem, Kiarash Kian
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
Roqe Ep. 433 - IRAN RISES - How This War Is Changing Us - Shiva Negar, Satin, Sadaf Yasini
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 diffe
Roqe Ep. 432 - IRAN RISES - The War of Perception - Bozorgmehr Sharafedin
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 misunderst
Roqe Ep. 431 - IRAN RISES - Who Is In Charge? - Lisa Daftari, Shahram Kholdi
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
Roqe Ep. 430 - IRAN RISES - The Illusion of Calm - Ali Hamedani, Shayan Sami'i, Sadeq Bigdeli
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 tha
Roqe Ep. 429 - IRAN RISES - Regime Unchanged - Behnam Taleblu
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 di
Roqe Ep. 428 - IRAN RISES - Consequential Moment - Dr. Shahram Kholdi, Dr. Mahdi Ghodsi
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 - an
Roqe Ep. 427 - IRAN RISES - A Deal Means More of This - Andrew Ghalili
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 wh
Roqe Ep. 426 - IRAN RISES - False Narratives - Dr. Kaveh Elahiyoun, Nazenin Ansari, Sepehr Vakil
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
Roqe Ep. 425 - IRAN RISES - Washington Is Calling - Bijan Kian
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
Roqe Ep. 424 - IRAN RISES - Decoding Trump - Shooka Bidarian, Shayan Sami'i, Ardeshir Zarezadeh
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
Roqe Ep. 423 - IRAN RISES - Beware Regime Narratives in Western Media - Forouq Canaani
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
Roqe Ep. 422 - IRAN RISES - The Mullahs Are Not Winning - Bozorgmehr Sharafedin
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
wh
Roqe Ep. 421 - IRAN RISES - Will U.S. Intervention Bring Change? - Ari Aramesh
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 t
Roqe Ep. 420 - IRAN RISES - Zahhak is Dead, What's Next? - Behnam Taleblu, Shayan Samii
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 a
Roqe Ep. 419 - IRAN RISES - Fighting Disinformation - Sadaf Yasini, Pegah Ganji, Daniel Diba
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
Roqe Ep. 418 - IRAN RISES - The Students Arise! - Dr. Sepehr Vakil
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 direc
Roqe Ep. 417 - IRAN RISES - Iranians Are Already at War - Ali Hamedani, Mahdi Ghodsi, Ardeshir Zarezadeh
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 cas
Ep. 416 - IRAN RISES - An Epic Weekend - Farnoush Hamidian,Laleh Tangsiri,Navid Negahban,Pegah Ganji
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
Roqe Ep. 415 - IRAN RISES - The Folly of the UN - Lisa Daftari, Shayan Samii, Bahador Alast
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 t
Roqe Ep. 414 - IRAN RISES - What Will Trump Do? - Khosro Isfahani, Picasso Moin, Kamyar Mahinsa
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 in
Roqe Ep. 413 - IRAN RISES - The Diaspora Mobilizes - Salar Gholami
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
Roqe Ep. 412 - IRAN RISES - Feel the Power When Iranians Unite - Homa Sarshar
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 dif
Roqe Ep. 411 - IRAN RISES - The Anger is Justified - Nazenin Ansari, Sadeq Bigdeli
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 Hu
Roqe Ep. 410 - IRAN RISES - The Case for Western Intervention - Farzin Nadimi, Shayan Samii
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 Stat
Roqe Ep. 409 - IRAN RISES - To Those Who Remain Silent... - Erfan Paydar, Forouq Canaani
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
Roqe Ep. 408 - IRAN RISES - Don't Look Away - Bijan Kian
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 to
Roqe Ep.407 - IRAN RISES - Alone Again? - Gazelle Sharmahd, Siamak Aram, Shayan Samii
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 pan
Roqe Ep. 406 - IRAN RISES - Now It's Urgent - Ari Aramesh, Dr. Kay, Lisa Daftari
As protests escalate inside Iran and internet access is increasingly restricted, the urgency of this moment continues to sharpen.
On this edition of Roqe (Episode 406) - the third installment of the ongoing Iran Rises series - Jian leads a timely panel discussion examining the rapidly unfolding situation inside Iran, the regime’s escalating crackdown, the information blackout, and what meaningful
Roqe Ep. 405 - Iran Rises - Turning a Dream Into History
Jian continues the Iran Rises series with a timely panel discussion examining the unfolding protest movement inside Iran.
Recorded on January 8, 2026, this episode brings together four perspectives - street-level insight, security analysis, economic context, and historical framing - to better understand what is happening now and what may come next.
Guests:
Picasso Moin – Iranian activist and co
Roqe Ep. 404 - IRAN RISES - Nazenin Ansari, Kamyar Mahinsa, Ali Fathollah-Nejad
As mass protests continue across Iran, Roqe launches IRAN RISES, a new twice-weekly series dedicated to understanding an uprising that is not simply about economic unrest – but about legitimacy, power, and regime change.
This episode opens with Jian's short essay arguing that what is unfolding in Iran is a new revolution. What follows is a focused panel discussion examining the current phase of t
Roqe – Episode 403 - Iranian Hopes, Fears and Resolutions for 2026
In this special New Year’s Day episode of Roqe, Jian convenes eight prominent Iranian voices from around the world to reflect on the year that was and the year ahead.
The episode opens with a freshly recorded opening essay responding to the most recent protests inside Iran and the ongoing mischaracterization of Iranian uprisings by parts of the Western media. The interviews themselves were record
Roqe Ep. 402 - A Very Persian Christmas: Iranians, Alcohol, and a Forbidden History - Dr. R. Matthee
Nothing says Christmas quite like talking about Iranians and drinking.
On this Christmas Day edition of Roqe, we revisit one of our most compelling conversations - an exploration of alcohol’s long, complicated, and often contradictory place in Iranian and Islamic history.
While alcohol is officially forbidden under Islam, it has played a persistent and sometimes conspicuous role across centuries
Roqe Ep. 401 – “Cars I Have Driven” – Vahid Amirimoghaddam
In Episode 401, Jian welcomes automotive content creator Vahid Amirimoghaddam into the Roqe Studio. Vahid is the force behind the Instagram page “Cars I Have Driven,” with more than 400,000 followers watching the cars he gets behind the wheel of. Jian speaks with him about his rise on social media, what drives his fascination with cars, how Iranians express identity and status through vehicles, an
Roqe Ep.400 - 400 Episodes! - The Original Cast Returns
On Episode 400 of Roqe, Jian reunites members of the original team - Groovy Shaya, Captain Reza and Smart Pegah - for a special roundtable reflecting on the five and a half years since the show launched in April 2020.
The conversation explores how Roqe evolved from a pandemic-era experiment into a global program streamed over 45 million times; how Toronto has become the epicentre of a rapidly grow
Roqe Ep. 399 - 12 Questions for Dr. Kay (Kayvan Mirhadi)
Episode 399 of Roqe features the return of Dr. Kayvan Mirhadi – “Dr. Kay” – the Chief of Internal Medicine at Clifton Springs Hospital in New York and one of the most trusted medical voices for Iranians around the world. He first gained widespread recognition during COVID-19 and again during the Mahsa Amini protests, when his clear guidance and steady presence became a lifeline for millions.
In t
Roqe Ep. 398 - How Dire is the Environmental Crisis in Iran? - Roozbeh Eskandari, Farid Safari
On this week's edition, Jian offers a clear and comprehensive primer on the environmental crisis now affecting Iran - a polycrisis that touches the country's air, water, energy grid, and public health.
Jian outlines recent AQI levels in major cities, groundwater depletion, the shrinkage of rivers and wetlands, dust storms, land subsidence, and the impact of Iran's inefficient energy sector on dai
Roqe Ep. 397 - Shahrokh Moshkin Ghalam Returns!
On this edition of Roqe, the legendary artist Shahrokh Moshkin Ghalam returns to the Roqe Studio — in full colour, full force, and fresh off a packed performance of Aref Nameh in Toronto.
Jian speaks with Shahrokh about his bold new staging of the cheeky, satirical, and explicit poem by Iraj Mirza; how he transitioned from iconic dance work into text-driven theatre; and what the pandemic taught h
Roqe Ep. 396 - Samin Yoga, + New Immigration Laws and Iranians
On Episode 396 of Roqe, two timely conversations that reflect the global Iranian experience.
Jian begins with Samin Pourkhalili (Samin Yoga), joining via Zoom from Missouri. Samin shares her journey from Tehran to India to the U.S., her rise as a global Farsi-language yoga instructor, and the tension between authenticity and the digital wellness industry.
Later in the program, Jian hosts an in-s
Roqe Ep. 395 – Helli Hendesi (“HelliTalk”) | From Business to Purpose
She built a career in business in America. Then, through depression and reflection, she found her true calling. Iranian-American podcaster and life coach Helli Hendesi, host of HelliTalk, joins Jian in the Roqe Studio to talk about her remarkable transformation - from corporate executive to full-time creator.
A conversation about courage, reinvention, healing, and how one woman turned pain into p
Roqe Ep. 394 - Fitness in the Social Media Age: What is Real? - Sepideh Faraji, Sama Ghorbani
In a world where fitness is filtered and wellness is for sale, how do we separate truth from illusion? Studies show that six out of ten TikTok fitness videos are misleading or harmful, and that more social media use often means more body dissatisfaction — especially among young people.
In this eye-opening conversation, Jian is joined by two Iranian-background fitness creators who are navigating b
Roqe Ep. 393 - Milad Derakshani, Dara Daraee, Bahar Falsafi (Triomoon)
A rare in-studio performance and conversation with TrioMoon - featuring Milad Derakhshani (tar), Dara Daraei (bass), and Bahar Falsafi (violin).
Visiting from Iran, the trio delivers two breathtaking instrumental pieces - a fusion of Persian classical roots, improvisation, and modern texture - followed by an intimate discussion with Jian Ghomeshi on creativity, collaboration, and the flourishing n
Roqe Ep. 392 – Icons of Design: Hossein Amanat, Kamran Diba + Roundup: “Little Iran” Backlash
A special edition of Roqe featuring two of the most influential Iranian architects of the last century - Hossein Amanat and Kamran Diba - together for the first time in the Roqe Studio.
In a rare and deeply personal interview, they sit down with Jian Ghomeshi to explore architecture, identity, exile, and legacy - from the creation of Tehran’s Azadi Tower and Museum of Contemporary Art to life and
Roqe Ep. 391 - Roqe Live 5!
Recorded before a packed house at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts (Oct 2, 2025), in Richmond Hill, Canada. This is the live version of the weekly Roqe podcast - transformed into a variety show that had everything from rollicking dances to memorials and tears.
Guests & Segments:
*Deejay Al* (opening hype) • *Jian Ghomeshi* (monologue & host) • *Pegah Ganji* (Richmond Hill’s rise a
Roqe Ep. 390 - Shabnam Tolouei — Art Without Borders
Episode 390: Shabnam Tolouei — Art Without Borders
On this edition of Roqe, Jian Ghomeshi welcomes Iranian-French actress, playwright, and director Shabnam Tolouei. In a conversation spanning both English and Persian, Shabnam reflects on her new short film One Thousand and One Hundred, her journey from Tehran to Paris and now the U.S., and her decades of work amplifying women’s voices and minorit
Roqe Ep. 389 - Move Like Ellie, + “The Left and the Mullahs” (essay)
Jian’s feature guest is Iranian-British fitness instructor and performer Elham Mahrooz (Move Like Ellie). Known for her joyful dance videos and infectious positivity, Ellie joins from London for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about her mission, her cultural identity, and what it means to radiate joy even under pressure.
The episode also opens with a fiery essay — “When the Left Marche
Roqe Ep. 388 - No Water, No Power: Iran’s Harsh New Reality - Kaveh Madani
What happens when a nation goes bankrupt on water?
In this edition of Roqe, Jian opens with a reflection on why “water is the new oil” - the defining resource of the 21st century. He argues that the crisis unfolding in Iran today is not just a local tragedy, but a preview for the world.
Our feature guest is Professor Kaveh Madani, former Deputy Head of Iran’s Department of Environment and curren
Roqe Ep. 387 - Gdaal
On this edition of Roqe, Jian Ghomeshi welcomes Gdaal – the Iranian rapper who has become a defining voice of his generation. In this expansive and all-encompassing conversation, Gdaal speaks with rare candor about his successes and struggles: from competition in the hip hop scene, to frustrations with the industry, to the profound impact of losing his father last year.
He reflects on growing up
Roqe Ep. 386 - Shohreh Solati (Exclusive)
An exclusive conversation with iconic Iranian singer and performer Shohreh Solati. Jian Ghomeshi speaks with Shohreh about her remarkable life and legacy — from her early days in Tehran to her status as a pop legend in exile. They discuss her biggest hits, her activism, her influence as an LGBTQI and feminist icon, and her ongoing joy in performing live for new generations.
Also in this episode:
Roqe Ep. 385 - Deejay AL, RAAVI Artisans, Roqe Live 5 Lineup Reveal!
Exclusive first reveal of the Roqe Live 5 lineup – only for Roqe listeners before it goes public on August 18th at 9am ET.
Then, Jian sits down with Deejay AL, one of the most recognizable DJs and producers in the Iranian diaspora, to talk music, culture, and connection.
And later, a conversation with Farimah Nowroozi (FamLuxy) and Arezoo Sadeghi (Two Art) from the all-female collective behind R
Roqe Ep. 384 - Melica: The Explorer
She left behind everything she knew and walked into the unknown.
In this episode, Jian is joined in the Roqe Studio by Iranian adventurer and memoirist Melica Bokaie (@melliiica) for a powerful conversation about identity, risk, freedom, and life as a solo traveler through Latin America.
Melica opens up about her emotional transformation, her poetic relationship with solitude, and her new memoir
