Free Trip to Egypt with Tarek Mounib (ep. 186)

Are you sick of hearing about the “divisive” time we live in? Me too!

Tarek Mounib shares how to foster sincere dialogue and better understand people with viewpoints different than your own. Tarek’ tips were learned on his journey with an unlikely group of US travelers to the Middle East. He captured this experience in his film Free Trip to Egypt to help people see the power sincere listening and simple human connection have in overcoming “divisive” worldviews.

Today's conversation will not only inspire you but give you the tools to become part of the solution.

SHOW NOTES:

• Tarek is focused on working on meaningful projects that bring people together + influence humanity in a positive way.
• Tarek's love of arts came from his mom while his love of science + logic came from his dad.
• At nine years old, a teacher emanated kindness and empathy towards Tarek, leaving a lasting impact on his life.
• Instead of unity, Tarek believes that September 11 created a false division and was not addressing the true enemy of fear. 
• His film Free Trip to Egypt was inspired by questioning if there something we can together to impact the world in kindness instead of the negative acts.
• After announcing the project on the internet, Tarek received unexpected criticism and skepticism. Tarek humanized the conversations when speaking with others respectfully face-to-face.
• "[Free Trip to Egypt] showed me there are very few bigoted people in America and that's what renewed my faith in humanity."
• "As long as I am not reacting out of fear, I have access to people"
• Break down the fear: Tarek hoped to bring people to Egypt that were afraid of Egyptians, Muslims or the Middle East yet were courageous enough to make the step.
• What will happen when opposites come together? Tarek paired Americans with Egyptians from different backgrounds and watched the dynamics, connections + journeys that unfolded. 
• "Human connection is more powerful than any difference we might have."
• A shift in perspective: Each participant had a powerful, transformative change. 
• #PledgeToListen: A pledge to not demonize anyone who holds certain opinions, views or beliefs, but instead will try to understand their reasons and their arguments and express your own views in return. Take the pledge here.
• Find a Free Trip to Egypt screening near you, or host one in your community, here.

If you enjoyed hearing how human connection can change the world, you'll love my conversation with Leon Logothetis. Leon travels the world relying solely on the kindness of strangers, which he pays back in unexpected, inspiring ways. Listen to Leon on Live Inspired Podcast ep. 136.

TAREK MOUNIB'S LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Prayer of Quintessential.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Naïve optimism.

3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? My guitar and I’d play “Let it Be” by The Beatles.

4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? My grandfather.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Be true to your heart.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? You're good the way you are.

7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? He loved the world. 

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