A Disabled Palestinian Walks into a Comedy Club… | Maysoon Zayid

Maysoon Zayid doesn’t just tell jokes—she breaks barriers. In this episode of Tarwida, the trailblazing comedian, writer, and disability advocate talks about navigating the world as a disabled Palestinian woman in such critical times. With her signature wit and raw honesty, Maysoon reminds us that laughter can be a powerful weapon—and that some things are too important not to joke about.

This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Nadia Roeske. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna.

This episode was recorded on December 21st, 2024. 

Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  

In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. 

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If you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!

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Relevant links and Resources: 

Follow Maysoon Zayid on Instagram @maysoonzayid

Watch Maysoon’s 2014 Ted Talk 

Buy Shiny Misfits through Amazon

Listen to Shiny Misfits on Audible

Follow Dean Obediallah on Instagram @deanobeidallah

Learn more about the history behind New York’s Arab American Comedy Festival 

Book Maysoon for your event or workshop through this link

The views and opinions expressed by guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the points of view of the Tarwida Podcast, its hosts, or its team. While we value open dialogue and diverse perspectives, these conversations are not an endorsement or representation of our personal opinions.