Al Nafs Podcast - Roots and Narrative

Today we dive into Iraq beyond the headlines — the memories, the kitchens, the rivers, the art, the loss, and the love that survives across generations. 🇮🇶💛 Linda Dangoor shares her journey of growing up in Baghdad, leaving after the revolution, and rebuilding identity through art, food, and storytelling. From the Tigris River 🌊 to life abroad, we explore the question: Where is home, when home is no longer a place? We talk: • Childhood in Baghdad 🏡 • Family, language, and belonging 🤍 • The Tigris as memory 🌊 • Diaspora, exile & identity 🧳 • Cooking as heritage & healing 🍲 • Mesopotamian art & clay culture 🎨 • Returning to yourself, wherever you are 🌱 This conversation is emotional, cultural, human — and real. If you’...

When war destroys faces… he gives them a second chance. In this emotional episode, Dr Mohammed Hassan Hussain, an ENT and nasal reconstruction surgeon, shares how he leaves the UK every few weeks to perform life-changing surgeries on war-injured patients in Lebanon. From children with devastating facial injuries to survivors who’ve lost everything, his story is one of courage, faith, and hope. This conversation goes beyond medicine — it’s about standing with those who suffer and finding purpose through compassion. 👉 Don’t forget to LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & SHARE 🙏 Watch, be inspired, and share their voices with the world. #Hope #Inspiration #Humanity #Surgeon #War...

In this episode, we sit down with Hassan Mohamad, a transport planner whose story of resilience, identity, and ambition takes us from the streets of Basra to the heart of London. He shares: Growing up in the Iraqi diaspora and navigating life in the UK His pivotal role in transport planning during the COVID-19 crisis (including the Nightingale Hospital project) How infrastructure, mobility, and ambition can transform both cities and lives His reflections on food, culture, resilience, and the vision needed to rebuild Iraq’s future This is a powerful conversation about roots, determination, and the power of planning — in life...

Welcome to another heartfelt episode of Roots and Narrative with your hosts, Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani. In this special episode, we welcome Naba back after her time away due to the passing of her father. Join us as we navigate the complexities of grief, share personal stories, and discuss the importance of community support during difficult times. In this episode, we also share exciting news about our upcoming trip to Iraq! We’ll be exploring the rich heritage, meeting our fans, and conducting interviews that highlight the resilience and stories of the Iraqi people. From visiting historical sites li...

In this heartfelt episode of Roots & Narratives, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome the talented Mayassah Alsader, a landscape architect and historian. Mayassah shares her insights into the field of landscape architecture, tracing its historical roots back to the 16th century and discussing its evolution. She explains that landscape architecture encompasses much more than just plant selection; it involves shaping outdoor spaces to create memorable destinations, from private gardens to public parks and university campuses. Join us as we explore the vital role landscape architects play in enhancing our living environments and fostering connections through thoughtfully designed spaces. ...

In this episode of Roots & Narratives, hosts Rida Alwan and Hawra Milani welcome the inspiring Raghad Al-Abboodi, who shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Babylon to pursuing a career in technology. Raghad discusses her childhood experiences in a region marked by conflict and how they shaped her identity and ambitions. She reflects on the challenges she faced as a woman in tech, particularly when choosing to study computer science at the University of Babylon. Join us as Raghad's story unfolds, highlighting resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe...

In this episode, we welcome Zahra, the founder of Iraqi Innovators, a media company dedicated to tech and startup news in Iraq. Zahra shares her passion for promoting Iraq's development and changing misconceptions about the country. She discusses her unique background, being ethnically Pakistani, and her deep-rooted connection to Iraq, particularly through her Shia heritage. Zahra reflects on her first experience visiting Iraq, which was when she moved there, and highlights the challenges she faced in traveling within the country. Join us as we explore Zahra's journey, her insights into the Iraqi landscape, and her vision for the future. Hosted...

In this heartfelt episode of Roots & Narratives, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome photographer and artist Emily Garthwaite, who shares her profound experiences in Iraq. The episode opens with a touching tribute to Naba's late father, Sayied Salah Al Madani, inviting listeners to keep him in their prayers. Emily, who has been documenting the Iraqi Arbaeen for several years, discusses her deep connection to the country and its culture, having spent significant time there since 2017. The conversation explores her early life, family background from the Channel Islands, and her journey as an artist. Tune in to discover Emily's...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome their friend Mugdad Alkhateeb, who shares his inspiring journey from a non-educational background to becoming a university head lecturer. The episode delves into the challenges and triumphs Mugdad faced while pursuing his education later in life. The discussion highlights the importance of education and personal growth, as well as the support from the community in achieving one's goals. Join us for an engaging conversation filled with motivation and insights into the transformative power of education. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to support the channel! Hosted by Simplecast...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome Dr Rabbie Hanna, a Chaldean Iraqi oncologist and head of robotics, who has flown in to participate in an upcoming medical conference. The discussion begins with an exploration of the Chaldean community, highlighting their significance as the majority of Christians in Iraq, their historical presence, and current demographics. Dr. Hanna shares insights into the Chaldean population, noting that they represent about 3% of Iraq's total population, with many having left the country over the years, leading to underpopulated villages that once thrived. The episode sets the stage for a deeper...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome sit down with Hashim Ali, a talented physiotherapist from Hull Football Club. Hashim shares his inspiring journey from growing up in West London to becoming a key figure in the world of football physiotherapy. Despite his family's limited interest in the sport, Hashim developed a passion for football at a young age and has achieved significant milestones in his career. The conversation delves into his experiences, the challenges he’s faced, and the lessons learned along the way. Tune in to hear Hashim's unique perspective on balancing personal interests an...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome Hassan Abdulrazzak’s, a multifaceted individual whose journey spans the globe. Born in Prague to Iraqi parents, Hassan shares his unique upbringing, speaking Czech until the age of three before moving to Iraq. He reflects on his childhood in Baghdad, highlighting his family's beautiful home in Karada. With a rich background as a doctor, biologist, playwright, and a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, Hassan's experiences in various countries, including Cairo, Algeria, London, and the USA, offer a fascinating perspective on culture and creativity. Tune in to explore hi...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome author and scriptwriter Samantha Elias to discuss her new book focused on Judeo-Arabic. Samantha shares her experiences as a second-generation Iraqi Jew, detailing her family's migration history and the cultural significance of the language. The conversation explores the rich linguistic connections between Arabic and Judeo-Arabic, emphasising the shared heritage of language and culture. Samantha reflects on the positive response her book has received from the Iraqi community worldwide, highlighting the importance of preserving and celebrating this unique linguistic tradition. Tune in for an insightful discussion on identity, language, and...

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? We're offering a limited-time opportunity to travel to Iraq with a group of like-minded explorers — all for an amazing price! This all-inclusive package includes: ✅ Return travel & all transfers ✅ 5-star hotel accommodation ✅ Guided tours to breathtaking sites ✅ Group travel experience with full support Everything is covered — just pack your bags and join us! 👉 Reserve your spot now: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScIFt42-gAblW6XG2YSm71OKl10dc2OlqbvucMYXG0gIBRIxQ/viewform 📩 Or get in touch with us directly to learn more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collecti...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome Hassanane Balal, a passionate football supporter, especially of the Iraq national team. The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted discussion about football loyalties, particularly Hassanane's support for Manchester United. Hassanane shares his admiration for the podcast, highlighting its significance for the Iraqi community by providing a platform for diverse voices and experiences. He reflects on his recent trip to France, where he followed the Iraq Olympic team, and emphasises the shared challenges and experiences faced by individuals within the community. Tune in for an insightful discussion that underscores the...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome Dr Amina Al-Yassin, a remarkable guest with a wealth of experience from multiple countries. Amina shares her journey, starting from her early life in Sur, South Lebanon, to her move to the UK at the age of three. She reflects on her family's background, with her mother being Lebanese and her father having roots in both Iraq and Lebanon. The conversation explores Amina's diverse experiences and the significant impact of her multicultural upbringing. Join us as we delve into Amina's story and the fascinating insights she brings to the...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome musician, researcher, and composer Khyam Allami. He shares his journey from being born in Damascus to having Iraqi roots, and moving to London at the age of nine. He discusses his academic background, including his PhD in experimental composition, which he completed a couple of years ago. Khyam delves into the focus of his research, which explores the intersection of experimentalism in Arabic music and the importance of cultural context, highlighting his unique position between Arab culture and his experiences in the UK. Tune in for an insightful conversation...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome Rashad Salim, a scholar and artist, who shares his insights into the heritage of Iraqi boats. Rashad's background is rich and diverse; he comes from a family of artists, with his father, Nazar Selim, being both an artist and a diplomat. Born in Sudan, Rashad's childhood was spent in various countries including China, Sweden, and Yugoslavia, before returning to Iraq at the age of 13. Throughout his travels, he developed a fascination with water and boats, which he discusses in depth. The conversation touches on themes of mobility, cultural heritage...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome British Iraqi screenwriter and director Amadeus. Amadeus shares his journey of immigrating from Baghdad to the UK in 1998 at the age of five, fleeing the oppressive regime of Saddam Hussein. He discusses the challenges faced by his family during this transition, including the risks associated with their migration and the emotional impact of such a significant life change. Tune in as Ahmed offers insights into his early years and the experiences that shaped his identity and creative journey. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com ...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome special guest Hawra Milani, a tech professional dedicated to empowering women in the industry. Hawra shares her journey through notable companies like Google and Meta, as well as her personal challenges, including her experience with ADHD and recent redundancy. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in the tech field. Hawra also discusses her exciting new project—a medical podcast in Arabic based in Iraq. She elaborates on the podcast's mission to interview top doctors and explore the complexities of the Iraqi healthcare system, which lacks the st...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome the remarkable Ashtar Al Khirsan, a visionary artist and advocate for cultural heritage. A graduate of the National Film and Television School, Ashtar shares her inspiring journey from creating documentaries for the BBC to making award-winning short films. The conversation dives deep into her personal story of being estranged from her father for over 30 years, only to discover he lived just 20 minutes away. Ashtar discusses the emotional complexities of her experience and the profound connection she feels to her Iraqi heritage. Join us for a heartfelt and engaging dialogue...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani sit down with Mohammad Taher, known as the "airport guy." Mohammed shares his journey from being born and raised in Northwest London to pursuing an engineering degree and transitioning into the aviation industry. He reflects on his childhood experiences, including attending various schools, and discusses the personal growth he underwent during his university years. With a focus on helping the youth find work in aviation, Mohammed provides insights into his career path and the importance of self-development. Tune in to hear his inspiring story and valuable advice for aspiring aviation...

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome an inspiring activist Huda Jawad. Huda shares her personal journey, beginning with her birth in Baghdad in 1977 and her family's flight from Iraq at a young age due to her father's activism against Saddam Hussein's regime. She reflects on the challenges faced during these tough times in the Middle East and emphasises the importance of finding joy amidst adversity. Huda's story highlights resilience, family bonds, and the impact of political oppression, setting a powerful tone for the conversation. Join us for an insightful discussion that blends personal narrative with...

Join Rida and Naba as they look back on the highlights, challenges, and lessons of 2024—and share their exciting vision for 2025! 🌟 From personal growth to big plans ahead, this conversation is packed with inspiration and insights you won’t want to miss. 🎥 Watch now and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful discussions on the Alnafs Podcast! #ReflectAndGrow #2024Recap #2025Goals #PodcastHighlights #InspiringConversations #PersonalGrowth #AlnafsPodcast #Motivation #SubscribeNow Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome Philip, a self-taught British Iraqi chef and founder of Juma Kitchen. Philip shares his inspiring journey from the financial industry to the culinary world, revealing how his passion for food led him to launch his kitchen in Borough Market. He describes Juma Kitchen not just as a takeaway restaurant but as a significant representation of Iraqi cuisine and culture in London. Philip discusses the importance of his work as a voice for the Iraqi community, especially in light of current events in the Middle East. Join us for an...

In this episode of Al-Nafs podcast, hosts Rida Alwan and Naba Al Madani welcome talented bespoke fashion designer Rena Jawad. Recently married, Rena shares insights into her journey from designing her own wedding dress to creating elegant modest evening wear. Born in Baghdad, she moved to Jordan and then to the UK, where her cultural background significantly shaped her identity and craft. Rena discusses the challenges and joys of her work, including the personalized experience she offers to clients, ensuring each piece reflects their unique style. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about craftsmanship, culture, and the art of fashion...

In this episode we welcome award-winning author Hasan Kubba, celebrated for his book "The Unfair Advantage," which won accolades in 2021 and has been translated into multiple languages. The conversation delves into Hassan's background, starting with his early work helping local businesses establish an online presence and learn the ropes of marketing. Transitioning from agency work to consultancy and coaching, Hassan shares insights into his journey as both an author and a mentor. Join us as we explore his experiences, successes, and the themes present in his acclaimed book. A massive thanks to our sponsor for this episode https://www.mainstay...