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Forbidden Paradise: Iran's Forgotten Heritage We're Not Supposed to Know

Published on: 9th September, 2024

There's more to Iran and Persian culture than what you'll see on Fox News.

That's the main point of today's episode. My wife Sana shared with me a Facebook post that did a fairly deep dive - as deep as you can get with a Facebook post anyway - on some of the highlights of the Persian culture and history.

I asked Sana, who is Iranian, if she would record a podcast and share some of her experiences as an Iranian, and how she views the American culture from that lens.

As usual we stray from the path a bit with the conversation, but manage to stay true to our intent.

In this episode you'll hear about the progressive policies of Cyrus the Great, advancements in science, medicine, and mathematics, to the unique role of women in Persian society.

Once you've finished listening to this, you might second-guess your decisions to rely on mainstream news sources re: that part of the world!

Episode highlights:

00:39 Exploring Persian Culture and History

01:36 Ancient Iran's Contributions to Civilization

04:43 Persian Innovations and Influence

06:06 Gender Roles in Ancient Iran

07:15 Modern Reflections on Ancient Wisdom

09:55 Community vs. Individualism

17:00 Cultural Reflections and Personal Growth

18:21 Understanding American Historical Perspective

19:19 The Importance of Learning from History

22:26 Contrasting American and Persian Cultures

26:03 The Influence of Persian Culture in America

30:31 Encouragement to Explore Persian History

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About the Podcast

Ba Vojdaan با وجدان
Conscious Living in a Zonked-Out World
Conscious Living...In a Zonked-Out World.

If you consider yourself to be reasonably sane, and often find yourself saying words to the effect of...

"WTF happened to this world?"...

Welcome. You're among friends.

با وجدان (transliterated to Ba Vojdaan) is a Persian word which translates to English as "Conscientious".

I don't know about you, but I'm alarmed by the lack of conviction and integrity in our culture. People are on "autopilot" morally and spiritually. Whatever the talking heads on the boob tube tell us to think, that's what we think.

Sure, this has always been a problem since the dawn of time, but it just seems more pronounced in recent years.

And no one notices.

And those who do notice...they seem to either not care, or have given up trying to make a difference.

This podcast is one man's response to this pandemic of moral laziness and apathy.

Carry yourself with "Vojdaan" and you'll instantly set yourself apart from the zombies inhabiting our land.

This podcast will show you how to do it, and allow you to interact with others who think the same way.

So subscribe to the podcast and reclaim your sanity with daily interviews featuring folks who refuse to march in step with the rhythm of the world that is driving us into despair and chaos.

And if you're able, would you be willing to leave a rating and review of the show while you're here on the app?

It really helps to build credibility for the show!

Guest reviews:
"I cannot overlook James’ great speaking voice. His tone is clear, articulate, and pleasant to the ear, making it easy for listeners to stay engaged and absorb the content of the interview. His vocal qualities undoubtedly contribute to the success of his podcast.”
-Laura Davidson – Author of The Logic of Freedom

"James, I've always seen that what you do comes out of a place of love. And that means you're doing right by the universe. It means you're doing right by God. It means you're doing what you were created to do in this world."
-Nathaniel Mayfield - Trumpet virtuoso and entrepreneur

“I really enjoyed being interviewed by James. He made me feel very comfortable, asked thought provoking questions and his demeanor reveals the passion he has for his work”
-Gary Greenfield (RIP) founder Greenfield Water Systems

“James navigated the conversation with ease. It was a delight to delve into the creative process and the hurdles of the performing arts.”
–Tamra Grace Jones, Boston-based Soprano

James is awesome to talk with. Super knowledgable and a real pro. He gave me the space and freedom to really express my thoughts!
-Vinnie Cieselski, Founder of Vinnie and the Hitmen

“It was lovely chatting with James about the concept of unschooling and self-directed learning. He asks the hard questions that people ask when they hear of “unschooling” for the very first time. It was great to have the chance to delve in deep and unpack this newest alternative form of education.”
-Judy Arnall (Child education and development advocate)

"James is a thoughtful and engaged interviewer, taking the conversation in thought-provoking directions and always making sure concepts are fully explained, so no listener will be left behind."
-Sage Dammers, founder and CEO Addictive Wellness

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About your host

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James Newcomb