On this reintroductory episode of Diaspora Discussions in a new format, Nikoo brushes on the currently very visible divide in the Iranian community between those who speak out against apartheid beyond gender, and those who do not.
24 May 2024
Navigating Iranian Identity | Medalion Rahimi
"I want us to move towards just telling these stories and not worrying about like, is this going to hit the demographic? Just tell the stories."
In this episode of Diaspora Discussions, Nikoo Nooryani sits down with Medalion Rahimi, celebrated for her portrayal of Fatima on NCIS. Their conversation delves into their shared Iranian background, their upbringing in LA, and the crucial significance of representation in entertainment. Medalion candidly shares her path in acting and her aspirations for diverse storytelling moving forward. They also indulge in a delightful discussion on Persian cuisine and Medalion's project, 'Wild Braid.' Throughout, the dialogue underscores the vital importance of genuine representation and the profound impact of storytelling in fostering connection among people.
24 May 2024
Mentors of Life and Art in Exile | Tara Aghdashloo
"I think I'm like finally at a point where everything has kind of merged into writing and directing seems to be the core of everything that I do."
Nikoo Nooryani @officiallynikoo engages in a candid dialogue with Tara Aghdashloo @taraaghdashloo, a journalist and filmmaker, exploring her creative journey and deep connection to her Iranian heritage. They discuss the influence of mentors and the fusion of art with daily life. Tara shares insights from her diverse artistic experiences, focusing on her current endeavors in writing and directing films. They also touch on the challenges artists face in a society keen on categorization, reflecting on how their Iranian background shapes their art and identity. The conversation extends to the importance of self-care and mental health in the creative process, as well as the evolving perception of Iranian culture globally. They exchange thoughts on favorite Iranian films and authors, emphasizing the significance of genuine appreciation and critique in art. Wrapping up, they share fond memories and discuss their favorite Persian dishes, adding a flavorful note to their exchange.
23 May 2024
For the Love of Football and Tahdig | Sahar
"Tahdig is very much the takeaway from Persian food, who can say no to crispy rice?"
In this conversation, Nikoo Nooryani interviews Sahar, the founder of Tahdig Lover, an Instagram account that celebrates the Iranian dish Tahdig. They discuss Sahar's background in football analysis, her journey into establishing Tahdig Lover, and the importance of community and promoting Iranian businesses. They also share their favorite Persian recipes and discuss the Iranian food scene in London and Los Angeles.
23 May 2024
Balancing Health, Hustle and Hollywood | Tara Grammy
"Why do I always have to play, you know, a Persian person? Why can't I just play a person? That's not, that's not their identity doesn't have anything to do with where they're from." - Tara Grammy
In this lively exchange, Nikoo Nooryani @officiallynikoo engages in a heartfelt conversation with Tara Grammy @taragrammy, a multi-talented actor, writer, and producer, delving into the intricate layers of her identity as an Iranian, Canadian, and Angeleno. Together, they navigate the challenges of balancing health and hustle in the entertainment industry, pondering the portrayal of multicultural identities within the realms of Hollywood. Amidst their dialogue, they underscore the significance of discovering a nurturing creative circle, where support and solidarity flourish. Their banter is sprinkled with laughter and intimate tales, as they bond over their mutual affection for Persian culture, celebrating its vibrant music and delectable cuisine.
23 May 2024
Troubles and Trade-Offs of the Iranian Diaspora | Haus of Milad
"I feel like it's my duty almost. I'm like, I let them talk **** about me so that maybe the next time they'll see someone dressed like me, they'll still talk a little ****, but maybe it won't be as bad." - @hausofmilad
Nikoo Nooryani and Milad share their stories as third culture kids and their adventures in the fashion world. They chat about being true to themselves and how fashion lets them express who they are. They also talk about the tough times they've faced in different places and how liberating it feels to embrace their own styles. Their talk shows how fashion isn't just about clothes, it's about sharing stories and making connections. They explore themes like being genuine, expressing yourself, and the struggles Iranian artists face in a world full of expectations. They mention how important it is to break boundaries, even if it means making sacrifices. They touch on finding support from people who understand their journey and how Iranian artists have to be extra creative and resilient to tell their stories within the limits they face.
23 May 2024
Creating Hope and Cleaning Sabzi | Shayda Omidvar
In a heartfelt conversation, Nikoo Nooryani @officiallynikoo and Shayda Omidvar @shaydaomidvar dive into their journeys as Iranian women navigating the creative industries. They bond over the significance of food in their culture and how it is a powerful link to their roots.
Opening up about their paths, they recount the hurdles they encountered while carving out their niches in their fields. Despite facing challenges, they speak passionately about the importance of representation and staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.
Their conversation brims with laughter, as they sprinkle in anecdotes that highlight both the struggles and triumphs they've experienced. Through it all, there's a palpable sense of pride in their Iranian heritage, as they aim to inspire and uplift others—especially immigrants and refugees—to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.
22 May 2024
Persian Poets are the Original Goths | Rose Knows
In their dialogue, Nikoo Nooryani @officiallynikoo and Rose @rose.knows engage in a discussion regarding their experiences as Iranians acclimatizing to life in North America. They delve into avenues that tether them to their Iranian roots, discussing the integral role of music in their lives and their fervent appreciation for the culinary delights of their homeland. Amidst these reflections, they candidly acknowledge the hurdles encountered in preserving their Iranian identity amidst the cultural landscape of their adopted home.
As Iranian Americans, Nikoo and Rose exchange anecdotes illuminating their struggles with cultural assimilation and the pervasive pressure to conform. Yet, amidst these tribulations, they find solace in the pursuit of authenticity and individuality, rejecting the confines of stereotypes. Their discourse, encompassing themes of gastronomy, melodic expression, and personal development, serves as a testament to the transformative journey towards self-acceptance and the unyielding resilience of the human spirit.
22 May 2024
Tarof: The Art of Iranian Hospitality
Trailer for Diaspora Discussions Season 1, Episode 1
22 May 2024
Tarof, Tahdig and Identity as Iranian Diaspora | Joanna Joy
On the first episode of Diaspora Discussions, Nikoo Nooryani and her guest discuss their experiences as Iranian diaspora and their connection to their culture. They talk about the challenges of fitting in while growing up, the importance of language and food in their culture, and their desire to learn more about their heritage.
The conversation highlights the importance of community, connection, and embracing one's cultural identity. Nikoo and Joanna (@littlejoybook) discuss their experiences as Iranians living outside of Iran as they emphasize that they are not experts on Iranian culture and history. As new friends, they are here to learn from each other and share what their parents have taught them. An example of those Iranian traits is the concept of tarof, which is a form of hospitality in Iranian culture.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
145
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 31 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
24
Social presence
0
YouTube
64
Engagement
32
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