Welcome, Tatiks Mari Basmadjian and Hasmik Alibalian!
In this episode, Mary Basmadjian honors both of her grandmothers — her paternal grandmother, Mari Basmadjian, and her maternal grandmother, Hasmik Alibalian. She calls her Medz Mamas (Western Armenian for "grandmother") her Tatiks (Eastern Armenian), reflecting the cultural threads woven through her family story.
Both sides of Mary's family immigrated to the United States from Soviet Armenia in 1979, stepping into an unknown land without knowing the language. In a note to us, Mary shared, "I was named after Mari Tatik" — a sentence that carries profound legacy and devotion.
In this conversation, Mary shares memories of laughter and storytelling, summers by the pool, Halloween celebrations, life lessons, loss, and caring for one of her grandmothers in her later years. Through these reflections, we witness how deeply both women shaped the person — and artist — she has become.
About Today's Guest Mary Basmadjian
Mary Basmadjian is a stand-up comedian, actor, and producer based in Los Angeles. Her work explores intersectional identity, mental health, digital culture, and the Armenian immigrant experience.
Growing up around funny accents and family melodramas in the '90s led Mary to adopt comedy as a second language — because laughter heals.
Through her first-generation lens, Mary creates space for honest laughter that inspires connection and freer love. Her stand-up, character work, and sharp social commentary have made her a beloved fixture in Los Angeles and beyond.
Upcoming Performances
• HYE THERE — March 3rd in the San Francisco Bay Area
• Vartoush Loves You! — March 14th at Flappers Comedy Club
Big thanks to sound designer and musician Aris Buechele.
Follow us on The Medz Mamas Podcast.
Created by: Anoush Bargamian
Story by: Mary Basmadjian
Photos: Mary Basmadjian's library
Music & Sound Design by: Aris Buechele
The Medz Mamas Podcast is a place to honor and celebrate our Armenian grandmothers all across the globe. Subscribe today and share TheMedzMamas™ with friends & family!
TheMedzMamas™ was established in late 2020 to celebrate and honor Armenian grandmothers' lives, stories, and perspectives.
TheMedzMamas™ aims to amplify the voices of Armenian women, with a focus on this particular generation of women.
While we specifically feature Armenian grandmothers worldwide, anyone can enjoy the collection of stories. We serve as a multi-generational experience that teaches the value of our unique Armenian grandmotherhood experience within the fabric of our collective humanity.
