In this exciting episode, we’ll explore the rich tapestry of Iranian life, from the grandeur of Persepolis to the poetry of Hafez, from bustling bazaars to the serene rhythms of Persian gardens.

Iran is a country of contrasts and continuity — where millennia-old traditions coexist with contemporary creativity. In this podcast, we’ll uncover the stories behind Iran’s remarkable history, tracing the rise and fall of empires, the influence of Zoroastrianism and Islam, and the enduring legacy of Persian civilization on the world stage.

But history is just the beginning. We’ll dive into Iran’s diverse culture — its languages, customs, and celebrations — and meet the people who keep these traditions alive. We’ll savor the flavors of Persian cuisine, from saffron-infused stews to rosewater sweets, and learn how food connects families and communities across generations.

Join us for this timely show about this ancient and culturally rich mysterious country.

The following books and articles have been used to assist in the production of this show. Please help our show and click on either of the links to purchase the book(s).

• History of Iran: An Enthralling Overview of Iranian History, Starting from the Ancient Persians through the Persian Empire to Modern Iran - Full of exciting events, memorable actors, bloody conflicts, and thriving cultural accomplishments, the history of Iran is a pleasure to dive into for any curious mind. From the prehistoric ages to the modern Islamic Republic, Iran has always maintained its prevalent position in history as one of the most vibrant, distinct, and diverse countries in the world. Located in western Asia, sandwiched between the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf, the mountainous regions of the Zagros Mountains have long been home to a civilization whose marvelous development throughout history is like no other. This book seeks to explore the rich history of Iran, all the way from the first Iranian peoples to the creation of the modern nation-state we know today. It analyzes the transformation of the region’s inhabitants from a primitive society to a world superpower to a country centered around strong religious principles and beliefs. Here’s just a small portion of what you will discover in this book: Detailed descriptions of Iran’s demography, culture, and physical and political geographies History of the first Iranian civilizations before 1000 BCE An in-depth look at the rise and fall of different powerful dynasties in the ancient and early medieval periods A journey through the Muslim Arab domination and the emergence of Islam as the prominent faith The age of various empires until the early modern times The Qajar and Pahlavi monarchies and the birth of the Iranian nation-state The triumph of the Islamic Revolution under Ruhollah Khomeini And much, much more!
• Revolutionary Iran: A History of the Islamic Republic - A new edition of the definitive history of revolutionary Iran, essential for understanding the country today For some 40 years the Islamic Republic has resisted widespread condemnation, sanctions, and sustained attacks by Iraq in an eight-year war. Many policy-makers today share a weary wish that Iran would somehow just disappear as a problem. But with Iran's continuing commitment to a nuclear programme and its reputation as a trouble-maker in Syria, Afghanistan, Lebanon and elsewhere, this is unlikely any time soon. An unending stream of assertions about the revolution's finally running down continue to be defied by events, and Iran's institutions are still formidable. This is the definitive history of this subject, from one of the world's principal experts.
• Iran: A Modern History - This history of modern Iran is not a survey in the conventional sense but an ambitious exploration of

Syria is more than a land shaped by ancient empires and contemporary conflicts—it is a country of remarkable cultural depth, where traditions live on in kitchens, in festivals, and in the rhythm of daily life. From the savory scents drifting through bustling souks to the poetic cadence of Arabic verse recited in coffeehouses, Syrian culture is rooted in millennia of heritage and animated by the warmth of its people.

Join us and learn about this fascinating country - from where it all started, to the rich, strong and warm country that is what Syria is today.

The following books and articles have been used to assist in the production of this show. Please help our show and click on either of the links to purchase the book(s).

• Syria and the Assad Family: The History Behind Bashar al-Assad's Rise to Power and the Civil War - Syria and the Assad Family is a history that examines how Hafez al-Assad's middle son grew up and the events that brought him to power in Syria. It also comprehensively analyzes the ongoing civil war against Assad. Along with pictures of important people, places, and events, you will learn about Syria's notorious dictator like you never have before.
• Syria: A Recent History - Syria's descent into chaos since 2011 has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, while more than nine million people have fled their homes. In this timely account, John McHugo charts the history of Syria from the First World War to the present and considers why Syria's foundations as a nation have proved so fragile. He examines the country's thwarted attempts at independence under French rule before turning to more recent events: two generations of rule by the Assad family, sectarian tensions, the pressures that turned an aborted revolution into a proxy war, and the appearance of ISIS. As the conflict in Syria rages on, McHugo provides a rare and authoritative guide to a complex nation that demands our attention.
• Ancient Syria: A Three Thousand Year History - Syria has long been one of the most trouble-prone and politically volatile regions of the Near and Middle Eastern world. This book looks back beyond the troubles of the present to tell the 3000-year story of what happened many centuries before. Trevor Bryce reveals the peoples, cities, and kingdoms that arose, flourished, declined, and disappeared in the lands that now constitute Syria, from the time of it's earliest written records in the third millennium BC until the reign of the Roman emperor Diocletian at the turn of the 3-4th century AD.Across the centuries, from the Bronze Age to the Rome Era, we encounter a vast array of characters and civilizations, enlivening, enriching, and besmirching the annals of Syrian history: Hittite and Assyrian Great Kings; Egyptian pharaohs; Amorite robber-barons; the biblically notorious Nebuchadnezzar; Persia's Cyrus the Great and Macedon's Alexander the Great; the rulers of the Seleucid empire; and an assortment of Rome's most distinguished and most infamous emperors. All swept across the plains of Syria at some point in her long history. All contributed, in one way or another, to Syria's special, distinctive character, as they imposed themselves upon it, fought one another within it, or pillaged their way through it. But this is not just a history of invasion and oppression. Syria had great rulers of her own, native-born Syrian luminaries, sometimes appearing as local champions who sought to liberate their lands from foreign despots, sometimes as cunning, self-seeking manipulators of squabbles between their overlords. They culminate with Zenobia, Queen of Palmyra, whose life provides a fitting grand finale to the first three millennia of Syria's recorded history. The conclusion looks forward to the Muslim conquest in the 7th century AD: in many ways the opening chapter in the equally...

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), is a vibrant island nation located off the southeastern coast of China.

Despite its relatively small size, Taiwan boasts a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, shaped by centuries of indigenous traditions, Chinese influence, Japanese colonization, and modern globalization.

The people of Taiwan are known for their warmth, resilience, and deep sense of community, making the island not only a hub of economic activity but also a cultural treasure trove.

This episode explores Taiwan’s dynamic blend of ancient heritage and contemporary life—from the bustling night markets of Taipei to the sacred rituals of its indigenous peoples. We’ll dive into the legacy of Japanese architecture, the flavors of Taiwanese street food, and how this island nation has crafted a unique voice on the global stage.

References used in this show

The following books and articles have been used to assist in the production of this show. Please help our show and click on either of the links to purchase the book(s).

• TAIWAN UNVEILED:A JOURNEY THROUGH CULTURE, CUISINE, AND NATURAL WONDERS: An Insider's Guide to Exploring Taiwan's Hidden Gems and Timeless Traditions - Whether you're wandering through vibrant night markets, trekking through emerald mountain trails, or sipping bubble tea in the shadow of Taipei 101, Exploring Taiwan: The Ultimate Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors is your essential passport to the heart of this dynamic island nation. Written by a travel expert with over 15 years of firsthand experience, this immersive guide takes you beyond the tourist trail. With engaging narratives, vivid visuals, and step-by-step directions, you'll discover the best of Taiwan—its hidden alleys, ancient temples, modern marvels, and untouched coastal paradises. Inside This Book You’ll Discover: City by City Exploration: From the street food capital of Tainan to the scenic shores of Sun Moon Lake and the cultural heart of Taipei. Outdoor Adventures: Hike Alishan at sunrise, cycle the East Coast, and surf Taiwan’s secret beaches. Cultural Immersion: Learn essential phrases, festival etiquette, and the stories behind Taiwan’s rich heritage. Local Stories & Insights: Enriched with tips from locals, personal anecdotes, and practical advice tailored for first-time visitors. Offshore Islands and Beyond: Discover the military relics of Kinmen, the coral reefs of Green Island, and the indigenous soul of Orchid Island. Practical Travel Tips: Including transportation hacks, SIM card setup, currency exchange, safety tips, and how to travel responsibly. Whether you’re planning a two-week escape or a longer cultural dive, this beautifully written guide ensures your journey is smooth, memorable, and deeply enriching. Explore Taiwan like a local—this book shows you how.
• Forbidden Nation: A History of Taiwan - For over 400 years, Taiwan has suffered at the hands of multiple colonial powers, but it has now entered the decade when its independence will be won or lost. At the heart of Taiwan's story is the curse of geography that placed the island on the strategic cusp between the Far East and Southeast Asia and made it the guardian of some of the world's most lucrative trade routes. It is the story of the dogged determination of a courageous people to overcome every obstacle thrown in their path. Forbidden Nation tells the dramatic story of the island, its people, and what brought them to this moment when their future will be decided.
• Culture and Customs of Taiwan - Taiwanese society is in the midst of an immense, exciting effort to define itself, seeking to erect a contemporary identity upon the foundation of a highly distinctive history. This book provides a thorough overview of Taiwanese cultural life. The...