Advertise on podcast: UNSUGARCOATED with Aalia

In the compelling 101st episode of UNSUGARCOATED with Aalia, we get the Lebanese perspective as Lebanese-American award-winning author Dana Dargos takes center stage. She discusses her journey from the Bay Area to literary acclaim with her debut, "Einstein in the Attic." The episode explores Dana's diverse interests, cultural values blending Lebanese heritage with American upbringing, and her impactful storytelling. Listeners are immersed in Lebanon's rich history, the struggles of its people, and Dana's humanitarian work. The conversation delves into Dana's commitment to activism, highlighting her efforts to raise awareness about the Palestinian cause globally. Throughout, Dana's experiences, challenges, and hopes create a heartfelt plea for humanity, urging listeners to stand against racism, genocide, and injustice. Aalia and Dana navigate the complexities of history, culture, and the call to action that defines Dana's inspiring journey as a humanitarian, activist, and impactful author.

In the 100th episode, UNSUGARCOATED with Aalia welcomes Thomas Madden, the son of a Belgian diplomat, is a filmmaker, journalist, activist and founder of A Mad Production. Having personally documented life in Congo, South Sudan, Nepal, Iraq and Gaza on behalf of UNICEF, Thomas sheds light on how different stakeholders approach global geopolitical and humanitarian crises. Especially calling attention to the atrocities, oppression, and genocide taking place right now, he urges Western media to convey the reality and break the systematic oppression towards Palestinian people.

In this limited series and the 99th podcast episode of the show, host Aalia Lanius welcomes Quinn the Eskimo, a full-time digital “slowmad” who has been traveling the world for the last 3 years is now shifting his efforts to travel to Gaza. Quinn discusses his upcoming journey to the region, his collaboration with local organizations, and his commitment to sharing stories from conflict zones to raise awareness and inspire action. Quinn, as a white male, talks on dispelling ignorance as they explore the complexities of the Gaza conflict, emphasizing the importance of humanizing those affected and recognizing commonalities across cultural and political divides. The episode underscores the power of individual action in addressing global humanitarian crises and encouraging listeners to engage empathetically with these critical issues.

In this limited series, and the 98th podcast episode of the show, our host, Aalia is joined by Jewish-born, New York-based, Canadian Jess Salomon, to share her remarkable journey from U.N. war crimes lawyer to the spotlight of the comedy stage with her wife, a Palestinian Muslim. In this interview, they explore Salomon’s early experiences with Jewish traditions, her foray into the world of comedy, and the unique perspective she brings to the stage. Beyond the laughter, they talk about weighty topics, including her experiences with family and her understanding of Israel as a safe haven, the complexities surrounding Zionism, and the narratives surrounding Palestinians.

As part of this limited series and 97th episode of UNSUGARCOATED with Aalia, our host welcomes to the conversation United Kingdom based Fitness Trainer and Influencer, Nazia Khatun. After discussing her background and work to empower clients through fitness, neuroscience and trauma healing they dive into their critical perspectives of what “role model” means in a world that wants to cancel those speaking up for Palestinians suffering genocide as part of what is being dubbed the second Nakba, of “Catastrophe” since October 7th, 2023.

In this compelling podcast episode, our host engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Morani Kornberg, a distinguished Israeli-born Jewish scholar, writer, and poet holding a PhD. The focus of the episode revolves around the intricate history of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and what it would be like to be born Palestinian in contrast to Jewish, aiming to provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the region's complexities. Titled "From Los Angeles to Gaza: A Plea for Humanity," this episode aligns with the broader theme of this limited series as a podcast season. It seeks to bridge geographical and cultural gaps, fostering empathy and understanding. Through the insights provided by Kornberg, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted dynamics at play in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, emphasizing the importance of a humanitarian perspective in navigating the complexities of this enduring issue.

In our final episode of season 11, Aalia is joined by Johannes Bhakdi, the Founder and CEO of Quantgene. Jo brings his expertise in the biotech industry as they discuss the use of AI and genomics in preventative healthcare, to aid in the early detection and prevention of diseases. They also talk about the role emotional intelligence plays in the industry. Jo highlights the potential of genomics and AI in developing personalized treatment plans and bridging gaps in healthcare access. He also shares Quatgene's goals to make preventative care more accessible to all, and extend the healthy human lifespan by a decade within the next decade. Like, comment, and subscribe! Stay connected with your host on IG: @aalia_unsugarcoated Stay connected to our guest: @quantgene UNSUGARCOATED™ Media is a 501c3 media enterprise, using podcasts, print publications, short documentaries, and more to tell stories of empowerment in the face of adversity and trauma. For more information on our goals, content, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit our website.

In this episode, Aalia is joined by Aaron Michael Sanchez, author, talk show host and business strategist. Are you trying to figure out where to start when launching a business? Aalia and Aaron talk about the challenges and opportunities of starting one in a down economy, and how self-regulation, resilience and emotional intelligence are important qualities for entrepreneurs to possess. Aaron discusses his co-authored book "How to Start a Business in a Down Economy," sharing real-world advice and strategies. Like, comment, and subscribe! Stay connected with your host on IG: @aalia_unsugarcoated Stay connected to our guest: @aaronmsanchez UNSUGARCOATED™ Media is a 501c3 media enterprise, using podcasts, print publications, short documentaries, and more to tell stories of empowerment in the face of adversity and trauma. For more information on our goals, content, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit our website.

In this episode, Aalia is joined by Michael Kaye, the Director of Brand & Communications at OkCupid. Michael brings his insights into the online dating world and all things romance! He discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in dating and creating meaningful relationships. Michael and Aalia both share their personal experiences with online dating and relationships. Michael also shares about OkCupid’s efforts to connect online daters based on what actually matters and to create a safe dating space for all users. They also discuss the hot topic of AI and the role it can play in online dating! Like, comment, and subscribe! Stay connected with your host on IG: @aalia_unsugarcoated Stay connected to our guest: @michaelkayepr UNSUGARCOATED™ Media is a 501c3 media enterprise, using podcasts, print publications, short documentaries, and more to tell stories of empowerment in the face of adversity and trauma. For more information on our goals, content, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit our website.

In episode 92, Robert Pearl, MD, Forbes healthcare contributor, former CEO of The Permanente Medical Group, and author of two highly acclaimed books, "Mistreated" and "Uncaring," provides our audience with outstanding insight into the current and future state of the healthcare system. This episode delves into Pearl’s personal journey to becoming a healthcare leader, the importance of restructuring and repairing inadequacies within our healthcare system, ChatGPT and the innovation of AI in contemporary times, potential trends in the future of healthcare, the importance of prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion where Robert Pearl MD claims that “providing great care to everyone” is the ultimate goal, and the purpose of cultivating emotional intelligence in systems of health.

In this episode, Aalia is joined by Bryan Ruby, the first credited openly gay active professional baseball player and country music artist. Bryan shares his experiences and insights on the importance of representation and inclusion in sports and entertainment, as well as how storytelling and music can play a role in promoting social acceptance and empathy. He also shares the purpose behind his non-profit organization, Proud To Be In Baseball, which supports and encourages LGBTQ+ youth in the sport. Like, comment, and subscribe! Stay connected with your host on IG: @aalia_unsugarcoated Stay connected to our guest: @bryanrubyofficial

Episode 90 of UNSUGARCOATED with Aalia, features an indepth conversation with Karina Miller, filmmaker with over two decades of producing credits in film, television, and theater. In this episode, Karina shares her thoughts on the role of film in addressing social issues and discusses the behind-the-scenes stories of "Hail Mary," her latest movie that aims to authentically depict the struggles of undocumented immigrants. Through her experience in the film industry, Karina sheds light on the challenges that arise during the production process. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the intersection of film and social justice! Like, comment, and subscribe! Stay connected with your host on IG: @aalia_unsugarcoated