Successful Iranians

AI is moving so fast that it’s hard to tell what’s signal and what’s noise, so we sat down with Ali Ansari to get specific. Ali is the founder and CEO of Micro One, an AI-driven human data training and annotation platform, and he’s built it into a business focused on improving intelligent systems at scale. We start with the origin story: born in Iran, a family leap to the US through the green card lottery, and arriving in Los Angeles at 10 without English. That pressure-cooker learning curve sets the tone for a life of experimenting, failing, and iterating quickly. From selling his dad’s loafers on eBay to flipping textbooks and building Cash Books Now with Amazon API signals, Ali explains how early “small bets” create a feedback loop that makes entrepreneurship feel inevitable. Then we zoom out to the future of work: are we living through an AI bubble, or the next industrial age? Support the show

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He crossed one of the hottest deserts on Earth at 16 because his faith left him with no legal way out, then landed in San Francisco with $75 and barely any English. That’s where Payam Zamani’s story starts, and it quickly becomes a masterclass in resilience, immigration, and what it really takes to build a life when the stakes are real. We talk through Payam’s early years growing up Baha’i in Iran, the constant pressure and discrimination, and the moment he realises survival means leaving everything behind. From Pakistan to the US Embassy in Islamabad, he describes his first direct experience of human rights and why the United States still represents “hope to the world”, even while wrestling with its contradictions. It’s an unfiltered conversation about gratitude, complexity, and refusing to let hardship become an excuse. From there we move into entrepreneurship and the Silicon Valley ecosystem: why contract law matters, why failure is treated as experience, and why venture capital and reinvestment create momentum that’s hard to copy elsewhere. Payam shares how he and his brother built AutoWeb.com, an early internet pioneer in online car buying, and how that journey leads to a public company valued at around $1.2bn. We also dig into the darker side of capitalism: greed, excessive materialism, and the hollow feeling that can follow “winning”. Finally, Payam lays out his idea of spiritual capitalism: building companies that serve people, changing hearts not just rules, and aiming for a coherent life where work and values cannot be separated. If you care about startups, leadership, immigrant success, purpose-led business, or building wealth without losing yourself, you’ll get a lot from this one. Subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave us a review with your biggest takeaway. Support the show

What does it take to rise from nothing in Iran to a world series poker champion on the global stage? Melika Razavi's life story reads like an epic novel, filled with challenges that would have broken many, but which instead forged an unstoppable force of nature. Born near the Caspian Sea in Iran, Melika's rebellious spirit emerged early as she defied societal restrictions on women. Riding bicycles when it was forbidden, practicing Kung Fu, attending theater against her family's wishes – these small acts of defiance laid the foundation for a woman who would refuse to accept limitations throughout her life. At 15, facing the prospect of an arranged marriage, Melika escaped to South Africa with her mother who had been separated from her children for six years. Their reunion and subsequent struggles, including arriving to find her mother's husband had sold everything they owned, created the crucible that shaped Melika's extraordinary resilience. Standing on a rainy beach with nothing to their name, her mother spoke words that would become Melika's north star: "Remember this day well, because one day you'll look back and see how far you've gone." The podcast takes us through Melika's remarkable journey: working in retail at 16, juggling education with night shifts at clubs, opening her own sports massage clinic, and her eventual discovery of poker. Her path to becoming a World Series of Poker bracelet winner in 2020 wasn't just about skill, but about approaching the game with the same philosophy she applies to life: "Sometimes you get a bad beat, but you keep going until you win." Even when facing discrimination in the poker world due to her Iranian heritage, Melika refused to be deterred. With over 2 million Instagram followers today, Melika uses her platform to advocate for freedom in Iran while continuing to build businesses and pursue new dreams. Her story isn't just inspiring – it's a masterclass in creating your own destiny regardless of where you begin. As she puts it, "I believe our life is like a book that you write. So write it good, because when you look back, you're going to say, 'Wow, I've done an amazing job.'" Listen now and let Melika's journey challenge you to break free of them. Support the show

Immerse yourself in a deeply engaging conversation with Payam Banifaz, an Iranian-American actor and comedian who has captured the hearts of many through his humorous portrayal of cultural experiences. Payam shares pivotal moments from his journey. With a refreshing perspective on the immigrant narrative, he discusses how laughter became a tool to bridge cultural gaps and foster connections. Payam’s viral videos depicting the quirky yet relatable dynamics of Iranian dads highlight not only the humor but also the tenderness underlying familial bonds. He dives into the cultural nuances that shape his comedic lens, revealing how he uses comedy to explore shared experiences of struggle and adaptation in a new country. His story goes beyond comedy, reflecting a broader narrative of resilience within the Iranian-American community, where many have successfully integrated their rich cultural heritage into their new lives. Payam speaks candidly about the expectations faced by first-generation immigrants and how he transitioned from traditional career paths into the arts—a field that has historically been met with skepticism from families. Throughout the episode, Payam outlines the challenges of the entertainment industry while emphasizing the importance of pursuing passions that resonate deeply with one’s identity. His journey is an inspiring testament to the immigrant Iranian spirit and the belief that challenges can be transformed into opportunities. Support the show

From Pizza Waiter to Hospitality Mogul: Tony Aalam’s Inspiring Journey Join us for an exclusive, one-hour conversation with Tony Aalam, a self-made entrepreneur and restaurateur whose journey from a humble waiter at Pizza Pomodoro to a powerhouse in London’s hospitality scene is nothing short of extraordinary. Tony shares his incredible story of falling in love with hospitality, navigating the VIP nightclub and members’ club circuit in London during the golden era of Peter Stringfellow, and the highs and lows of building a career in one of the world’s toughest industries. We dive deep into his Iranian roots, his passion for Italian food, and his unshakable belief in the power of making people happy. Tony opens up about the heartbreak of having a successful restaurant taken from him and how he rebuilt himself to rise again as a true icon in the industry. This episode is packed with entrepreneurial insights, personal triumphs, and candid reflections on life at the top of the hospitality game. Don’t miss this unforgettable journey of resilience, ambition, and the art of entertaining. Support the show

Join us for a conversation with Hadi Partovi. Hadi is an inredicable Tech Leader, Serial Investor of some of the biggest companies in the world such as Facebook, Dropbox, Uber, Airbnb, and the visionary behind Code.org. He shares his extraordinary journey from a war-torn Tehran to becoming a formidable force in the tech industry. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and seizing opportunities. Hadi's determination to restore his family's legacy dismantled by the Iranian Revolution is nothing short of inspiring, and his global mission to make computer science education accessible is transforming classrooms across the U.S with over 100 million students. Support the show

Join us as we sit down with John Parsiani a leading real estate broker and developer who has made waves in Miami’s bustling market. From his roots in Shiraz, Iran, to the challenges he faced in Sweden, John's journey is a compelling narrative of resilience and success. Listen as he opens up about the glamor of Miami's real estate scene, the hurdles of immigration, and how he sold over $448 million in real estate in 2022, all while staying true to himself and his heritage. John’s story is a fascinating exploration of cultural integration and identity. We unpack the contrasts between life in Sweden and the United States, and the unique experiences that shaped his professional path. Discover how he maneuvered through the intricacies of different societies, turning obstacles into stepping stones. Tune in for insights on how embracing discomfort and stepping beyond comfort zones can lead to formidable growth and success. Support the show

The Persian language save the culture and history of Iranians after the Arab conquests. The Persian language is so significant that it preserved the identity of one of the world's oldest civilizations. Join us as we uncover the profound complexities of the Persian language with our guest, Leyla Shams. This conversation sheds light on how the Iranian diaspora, particularly after 1979, has influenced Western perceptions, and why educating English speakers on this distinction is more significant than it appears. Support the show

Discover the dynamic world of franchising with Hossein Kasmai, a trailblazer in the industry who shares his invaluable insights gained from collaborating with over 700 companies. Explore how the franchising landscape has evolved beyond the dominance of fast-food giants to embrace lucrative opportunities in sectors like home services, fitness, and healthcare. Hossein uncovers the secrets to selecting the right franchise opportunity, spotlighting key considerations and red flags aspiring entrepreneurs should watch out for. Hear how franchising has revolutionized traditional blue-collar industries by integrating sophisticated marketing strategies, providing a structured pathway to business success. We dive into the financial nuances of owning a franchise, discussing liquidity requirements, the role of credit scores, and the strategic benefits of securing loans. Huossein offers an engaging narrative of his entrepreneurial journey, from pioneering technologies to launching a successful child safety identification business, demonstrating the resilience and passion needed for entrepreneurial triumph. Support the show

Discover the riveting journey of Dr. Shohreh Ghassemi, an Iranian oral surgeon and human rights advocate, whose story is a testament to resilience and dedication. From navigating the challenges of immigration and the travel ban to making groundbreaking strides in facial cosmetic surgery, Dr. Ghassemi's experiences illuminate the perseverance needed to thrive in a male-dominated field. Explore her perspectives on gender equality and the importance of teaching the next generation of surgeons, showcasing how personal grit can lead to professional excellence. We also explore the cultural nuances of beauty ideals in the Middle East, shedding light on the rising preference for non-invasive cosmetic procedures and female surgeons. The conversation delves into the increasing reliance on safe techniques like fillers and thread lifts, while reflecting on how social media shapes modern beauty standards. By paying homage to timeless icons like Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren, we celebrate the fusion of personality and charm with physical appearance as the essence of true beauty. Support the show

What if you could turn your passion into a thriving career while navigating the challenges of fame and cyberbullying? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Uldouz Wallace, the Iranian-Swedish actress, comedian, and social media influencer, who has captivated millions with her unique blend of humor and authenticity. Uldouz recounts her journey from studying marketing and advertising in Sweden to discovering her comedic talents in Vancouver, leading to viral success and recognition from industry legends like John Singleton and Marlon Wayans. Listen as she shares the highs and lows of her career, including the battle against typecasting and the emotionally draining experience of cyberbullying. Her insights reveal the often-hidden struggles behind maintaining a massive social media presence and the relentless drive required to stay ahead in the ever-evolving influencer landscape. Support the show

Experience the mesmerizing journey of Babak Amini, an Iranian guitarist and composer whose talent and resilience have transcended extraordinary challenges. From his childhood moments picking up a small guitar at age 10 to launching "Blue of the Rain," the first post-revolution guitar album in Iran, Babak's story is a testament to the power of passion against all odds. He recounts the adversities faced during the Iran-Iraq war and the cultural restrictions that couldn't deter his devotion to music, providing a glimpse into the life of an artist who never let go of his dreams. Babak's evolution as a guitarist is nothing short of remarkable. Listen as he shares his journey from resisting the use of a pick to mastering flamenco , all while drawing inspiration from legends like Paco de Lucia and Al Di Meola . His narrative unfolds with a significant highlight—collaborating with the distinguished guitar luthier Felipe Conde, leading to his very own signature guitar line. Babak's insights into the modern era of musicianship, where technology and diverse skills play a crucial role, offer invaluable lessons for aspiring guitarists. In our heartfelt conversation, Babak offers sage advice on music, fame, and trust. He emphasizes the importance of nurturing one's unique musical style over chasing quick fame and financial success. Support the show

Embark on an inspiring journey with us as we welcome the remarkable Poyua Hashemi, whose entrepreneurial spirit has led him from humble beginnings to founding tech company Spin Touch and SIP Awards, a global spirit brand evaluator. Poya's story is a testament to the power of passion and resilience. From selling candy in middle school to spearheading cutting-edge technology in augmented reality and VR, his experiences offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to turn their dreams into reality. But Pouya isn't just about business—his forays into magic, stand-up comedy, and acting provide a holistic view of balancing professional pursuits with creative outlets, especially during the challenging times of COVID-19. In an equally captivating segment, we dive into the life of a former business professional who has found new joy in creating comedy content on social media. Transitioning from a more traditional career path to the world of comedy reels, this individual's story underscores the liberating nature of creative expression, even when faced with criticism.Resulting in a large Instagram following to his content. Support the show

Ever wondered what it takes to go from being a heart doctor to an aspiring astronaut? This episode features Eiman, an associate professor of medicine and radiology at NMD, who's on the cusp of realizing his space travel dreams with Blue Origin's New Shepard. Join us as we journey through his incredible story of perseverance, from his roots in Iran to his thriving career in Nashville, Tennessee. Eiman opens up about his two-time finalist experiences with NASA and the emotional rollercoaster that has defined his relentless pursuit of space travel. We delve into the nitty-gritty of astronaut selection, contrasting traditional government programs with the emerging commercial spaceflight industry. Eiman shares the rigorous process he underwent, from psychological evaluations to medical exams, and the complex emotions tied to this career shift. Hear firsthand about the reactions of his family, especially his parents and wife, as they grapple with the excitement and risks of his upcoming suborbital flight. These insights provide a unique look into the human side of space exploration, highlighting the balance between ambition and personal sacrifice. Looking ahead, we explore the broader implications of human space travel, touching on subjects like rapid global travel, potential colonization of other planets, and the search for extraterrestrial life. Eiman reflects on our technological and financial hurdles, as well as the existential questions that arise from our quest to explore the cosmos. Support the show

What if you could witness the 1979 revolution of a nation through the eyes of someone who lived it? Join us for an insightful conversation with Amir Tahiri, an esteemed Iranian-born journalist and scholar, as he takes us on a political journey of Iran's revolution. Amir's firsthand experiences as the executive editor of Iran's largest daily newspaper, Kayhan, offer a unique perspective on the Shah's leadership, the rise of Khomeini, and the seismic shifts that reshaped Iran and its global relationships. Join us as we dissect the economic and political paradigms that challenge conventional wisdom, like the perceived links between democracy and wealth. Amir unpacks the Shah's industrial ambitions, the strategic errors that facilitated Khomeini's ascent, and the complex geopolitical dance between Iran and the United States. Through detailed anecdotes and critical analysis, we expose the misinformation and external influences that fueled the revolution, providing a rich narrative that illuminates the nuances of this pivotal moment in history. Finally, we celebrate Iran's cultural resilience and the boundless creativity of the Iranian people, who continue to inspire despite oppressive regimes. Amir reflects on the enduring spirit of Iranians and their potential for greatness, amplified by social media's transformative power. #iran #iranrevolution #tehran #iranian Support the show

Join us as we sit down with the remarkable Tina Ghazimorad, editor-in-chief of Manoto News Desk, who shares her extraordinary journey from Tehran to the UK. Tina recounts the powerful influence of her family's pre-Islamic revolution stories on her career, revealing how these narratives ignited her passion for cinema and media. Discover the unique vision behind Manoto, a stylish, independent voice for Iranians that stands apart from government-backed networks. Tina's insights into the role of storytelling in envisioning a modern Iran are both compelling and inspiring. We dive into the often-overlooked challenges faced by Iranian media outlets like Manoto . From financial constraints to political pressures, maintaining an independent, non-ideological platform is no easy feat. #iran Support the show

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Have you ever pondered the intersection of cultural identity and financial acumen? Our latest episode features the remarkable Patty, who guides us through her journey from Iran to the U.S., navigating financial hurdles to emerge triumphant in law and finance. Patty is a media host, keynote speaker, content creator and author. Her story is not just one of numbers but of cultural resilience and the empowering lessons that financial literacy can bring to people everywhere, especially women. Diving into the world of investing and entrepreneurship, we confront common misconceptions head-on, thanks to Patty's invaluable insights. Gone are the illusions of startup glamor, replaced with the real potential of stock investments and the wonders of compound interest. Patty dissects the psychology behind investment fears and the advantages of an abundance mindset. As she shares her expertise on purchasing businesses wisely, she also teaches us to distinguish between making a true investment and inadvertently buying ourselves a job. We wrap up our conversation by examining the essence of financial independence and its impact on power dynamics in relationships and society at large. Patty illustrates why traits like prudence and thorough research may indeed make women superior investors and salespeople. Support the show

When Tehran Von Ghasri steps up to the mic, you know you're about to ride a wave of laughter that crashes through cultural barriers. Having the dual heritage of Iranian and African-American. His story is a masterclass in identity alchemy, turning inherited labels into a unique personal brand that resonates beyond the stage. We explore the universal language of comedy and how it has shaped our perspectives, serving as a beacon through the fog of societal norms. I share my own journey of finding solace in sarcasm, while Tehran illuminates the artistry behind our craft, tipping his hat to the likes of Ricky Gervais. Strap in as we tackle the heavier truths behind the laughs—embracing the duality of a comedian's life filled with both public joy and private battles. We reflect on the profound impact that humor can have on mental health and the shared dream of performing in places that hold pieces of our identity. Join Tehran and me for an unfiltered journey into the heart of what makes us laugh, cry, and everything in between. Support the show