Over the past 20 years, working in 13 countries has introduced me to remarkable individuals and diverse perspectives. As an immigrant and refugee who left Iran as a child and moved often, I developed not just a tolerance for change but a deep appreciation for the discomfort and growth it brings. Every move exposed me to new languages, ways of thinking, and cultural expressions of work and art.

One thing, however, has been consistent: universal frustration with inauthentic communication and overused buzzwords. Across cultures and workplaces, the irritation with hollow, performative language is palpable. Inspired by these experiences, I’ve stayed connected with extraordinary people and am now eager to expand these conversations through my new podcast.

In this space, friends, experts, and even anonymous callers join me to unpack the origins and impact of buzzwords—why they exist, why they frustrate us, and when, if ever, they hold meaning. As my friend Autumn, a writer and podcast guest, aptly put it, buzzwords are “the art of saying something while saying nothing.” If you’ve ever questioned your perspective in a world inundated with performative language, this podcast might offer the clarity you need.