Time is a ridiculously funny thing, isn’t it? When Elyse and I started recording these talks, I don’t think that either of us could’ve imagined how relevant they’d be so many months later. This last talk in particular feels appropriate in opposition to this time of division, apathy and anguish that we’re currently living through. In 2025, the word ‘hope’ almost feels childish to reflect on, but there’s a vitality to that word that cannot be overstated. That the need for hope has to exist across ourselves internally and externally, especially as we continue to navigate the darkness of the world. I want to thank Elyse massively for how she’s opened her heart across these talks. Her willingness to share her doubts, uncertainties and fears is something I find so damn brave, and I hope it helps you listeners out there to feel less alone. As Father John Misty says on Pure Comedy “each others all we’ve got” (intro song is Pale Cerule by Ajwaa).

Something that Elyse and I strongly share is this thought that love isn’t discussed enough in our lives. That might sound paradoxical to some, but just think about it for a second; outside of the context of romance and immediate family…..how often do you hear love openly discussed? Which is a bewildering thought to hold when you consider the beautiful ways in which friendships and community shape our daily lives. That the act of exerting and witnessing love amongst people can contribute to keeping us sane in dire times; especially to those in close proximity to us. So this next episode is all about that, exploring the instances of love that Elyse has witnessed in the Middle East, along with exploring why love continues to be an act of resistance (intro song is Pale Cerule by Ajwaa).

When this series was conceived, the word ‘misconceptions’ was one of the first words that came to mind. As an American who’s lived abroad and has traveled (some of) the world, I think it’s beyond clear that the misconceptions of the Arab world are numerous beyond measure. As stated before, one of the hopes of this series is to celebrate the humanity and dignity of the Arabic people, especially the people of Palestine.

So with this episode, Elyse and I aimed to tackle some misconceptions head-on, both ones that are widespread in our home countries of America and Canada, while also challenging ourselves and our previously held misconceptions (intro song is Pale Cerule by Ajwaa).