The Mechanics of Influence | Ahmed Shihab-Eldin & Rahma Zein

Description

"We are all maneuvering in life normally, but our hearts are very much broken." Journalists Ahmed Shihab-Eldin and Rahma Zein sit down with moderator, cartoonist Khalid Albaih for an essential conversation on the weight of narrative in a time of systemic erasure. We explore the role of journalism, storytelling, and cultural expression in shaping narratives around resistance, identity, and the shared realities of Palestine and Sudan. From the front lines of global media to the personal ripple effect of a single headline, the discussion delves into the reasons we tell stories, beyond informing others, to make sense of the world for ourselves. The speakers reflect on their experiences navigating media outlets, the challenges of representation, and the ways journalism and creative work intersect with advocacy. This episode was recorded on November 21, 2025 00:00 Introduction: Voices from the Frontlines 02:51 Navigating Life with a Broken Heart 08:22 Beyond the Bio: Redefining Identity 11:00 The Responsibility of Every Storyteller 16:33 Finding a Voice in Conflict 18:55 The Power and Danger of Headlines 24:35 Reclaiming Narratives in the Digital Age 32:10 The Myth of Objectivity in Journalism 38:38 Channeling Collective Rage into Progress 46:17 The Weight of Systems vs. The Power of People 49:30 The True Cost of Speaking Out 01:01:53 Sudan and the Silence of Structural Erasure Ahmed Shihab-Eldin is an Emmy-nominated journalist, producer and actor. He is known for award-winning documentaries and films on social justice, premiering at Cannes and other major festivals. His resume includes PBS, Al Jazeera, HuffPost Live and “VICE on HBO”. He co-created Al Jazeera English’s The Stream and published Demanding Dignity (2013). He currently hosts the podcast Out Loud, conversations with people challenging the status quo; teaches as Adjunct Professor at the University of Bari and is producing The Visitor. His work has been recognised by GQ and Forbes’ 30 Under 30. Rahma Zein is a former Egyptian journalist with over a