Shows
2024-10-0800 minJoking Not JokingQuintessa Swindell and Realness[Encore episode] Actor Quintessa Swindwell (Trinkets, Prime Target [forthcoming], and Black Adam) and the hosts get into one of the core questions of The Lexicon: What *is* realness? Can we find objective truth in the modern world? How do we remain authentic to ourselves, while steering clear of counterfeit truth claims? The trio goes deep, buckle up.ORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan Head of Production: Liz L...
2024-09-2523 minJoking Not JokingRamy Youssef Has a Goal Age?[This encore episode releases in honor of an epic year for Ramy Youssef (starring in the Oscar-nominated film Poor Things, guest-directing an episode of Emmy-nominated series The Bear, releasing his film Ramy Youssef: More Feelings, speaking out on behalf of people suffering in the Middle East and more)]Do most people live in a state of ‘death denial’? Should we all aspire to live to a healthy 102; or shoot for a more modest, albeit blessed, 63 years? Are therapy, astrology, and deep breathing the keys to a longer, happier life? Actor, comedian, writer, and director Ramy Youssef joins Mo a...
2024-09-1725 min
The Midnight MiracleWhat's Your Goal Age? [Joking Not Joking]Comedian Mo Amer, from Season 1 of The Midnight Miracle, invites his friend, the comedian and actor Ramy Youssef onto the mic. Mo, along with Azhar Usman, talk to Ramy about "death denial," and other light AF banter. Ramy shares his greatest accomplishment in life. The Professor shows up to teach we dum dums a thing or two. (Originally published in 2023). Listen to Joking Not Joking wherever you get your podcasts.ORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama...
2024-02-0725 minJoking Not JokingWas Muhammad Ali an American Muslim Saint? ft. Imam Zaid ShakirBorn Ricky D. Mitchell in Berkeley, CA in 1956, Imam Zaid Shakir converted to Islam in 1977 while serving in the United States Air Force. He studied the religion of Islam extensively, and today is popularly regarded as “America’s Imam,” and one of the most prominent Muslim preachers alive. Imam Zaid was Muhammad Ali’s spiritual leader, guide, and dear friend, and was whispering prayers into his ear in his hospital room when he passed away. Per Ali’s prior request, he led his funeral prayer and presided over his memorial service. Among other achievements and accolades, he is also the co-fou...
2024-01-0419 minJoking Not JokingYou Went to Clown School? ft. Ahamed Weinberg and Paul EliaComedians Ahamed Weinberg and Paul Elia are back with Mo & AZ to discuss Clown School: how it’s affected Ahamed’s standup routine, and how it shaped his rise as a comedian in Los Angeles. Clown is fast emerging as a fourth genre of comedy (after standup, sketch, and improv). Also: a message for Bill Cosby (Spoiler: the disgraced legend may owe Mo a significant payment for alleged joke theft).Guests: Ahamed Weinberg, Paul EliaORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah...
2023-12-2821 minJoking Not JokingSo You Grew Up in Alief? ft. Tobe Nwigwe & Bassam TariqMo and AZ are joined by Grammy-nominated rapper, singer, and actor Tobe Nwigwe and filmmaker, producer, and screenwriter Bassam Tariq to discuss Alief: what it was like growing up in a suburb of Houston, and its lasting impact on who they are today. Alief (aka “SWAT” - Southwest Alief Texas) also gave the world Beyoncé, Lizzo, and a bunch of other artists and entertainers. Is there something in the water?Guests: Tobe Nwigwe, Bassam TariqORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah...
2023-12-2119 minJoking Not JokingWhere We Headed, Player? ft. Paul EliaMo’s hit Netflix show “MO” is making waves globally, and people are talking. Fellow comedian Paul Elia (Conan, Ramy, Lowkey Comedy) joins Mo and AZ to further discuss their backstories, and the process of the Come Up. Palestine-based standup phenom Adi Khalefa delivers a dispatch from the Arab streets. Guests: Paul Elia, Adi KhalefaORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan Head of Produ...
2023-12-1420 minJoking Not JokingWhat's Your Origin Story?“Making it” in show biz is different for everyone. Mo shares the story behind his rise in the entertainment industry: from doing standup in high school to becoming a nationally, then internationally, touring comedian and award-winning actor/creator. AZ shares a bit about his own winding path–from lawyer to startup founder to comic–and the duo reminisce about their proverbial Come Up.ORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan
2023-12-0718 min
The MuslimCentric Podcast#56 Preacher Moss | American Muslim Comedian | Allah Made Me FunnyPreacher Moss is a distinguished American comedian, writer, and educator, best known for his pivotal role as the founder of the groundbreaking comedy tour, 'Allah Made Me Funny.' This tour played a crucial role in boosting the confidence of Muslims worldwide in the aftermath of the events of 9/11 in 2001. Collaborating with fellow comedians Azhar Usman, Mo Amer, and Azeem Muhammad, Preacher Moss embarked on a journey that not only entertained but also served as a source of empowerment.
Beyond his success in the stand-up comedy realm, Preacher Moss's talents extended to writing for renowned f...
2023-12-011h 31Joking Not JokingDo You Believe Conspiracy Theories, Bro?Aristotle said: “It is the mark of an educated mind to entertain a thought without accepting it.” Mo and AZ discuss some known, and many lesser-known, conspiracies. But let’s be clear: AZ doesn’t believe in conspiracy theories; he believes in conspiracy facts. (For example, it turns out Aristotle never said that fake quote above. Seriously, Google it.)ORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan Head of P...
2023-11-3020 minJoking Not JokingIs Fiat Money the Greatest Scam of All Time? ft. Amir K & Furqan RydhanOOPSIE DOOPSIE! Seems like the U.S. Military might have accidentally, kinda, sorta maybe, allegedly misplaced trillions of dollars?! Comedian Amir K joins Mo and AZ, as they call up serial tech entrepreneur and Silicon Valley insider Furqan Rydhan (www.f.inc) to get the inside scoop on money: What does it really buy us (besides, like, nice cars and cool stuff)?Guests: Amir K, Furqan RydhanMore Info:Article: “U.S. Army Fudged Its Accounts by Trillions of Dollars, Auditor Finds,” by Scot J. PaltrowLink: https://www.reut...
2023-11-2324 minJoking Not JokingWhat is the Global Monoculture?Mo and AZ discuss what’s happening to culture, as technology and interconnectedness continue to shrink the world. Also, we get a throwback to September 2001, when AZ felt the need to check Oprah as to whether America is a ‘melting pot’ or a ‘salad bowl’—on live TV. Finally, “Ozzie Patel” is concerned about his depressed dog and calls up psychic reader Donna.ORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan
2023-11-1621 minJoking Not JokingBonus: Mo and Azhar's Excellent AdviceRelationship concerns? They got you. Time travel? Absolutely worth discussing. Aliens? Get ready for the hottest takes. Taped recently at a secret location in Houston, TX, this episode features Mo and AZ delivering incredible answers to the questions you didn't even know you had. [Originally recorded and published in September, 2023]Joking Not Joking is a Luminary Original, and a co-production between SALT, Legally Homeless, Inc., and Numinous Company, Inc.
2023-11-1035 minJoking Not JokingWhere Did Everything Come From? ft. Amir Sulaiman and Brother AliDoes anything mean anything? If so, how do we know? And if all we have are words to define other words, what is the origin of language itself? Poet Amir Sulaiman and rapper Brother Ali are back with Mo and AZ to discuss the origins of the universe, language evolution, and, well, everything. Guests: Amir Sulaiman, Brother AliORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan
2023-11-0921 minJoking Not JokingAre We Recording? ft. Amir K & Brother AliENERGY VACUUM! AZ calls up a man whom The New Yorker described as “perhaps the most influential Islamic scholar in the Western world,” but forgets to mention that the call is being recorded. Can Mo ever forgive the blunder? Comedian Amir K joins the guys as they catch up with their dear friend and collaborator, indie rap pioneer and host of The Travelers Podcast, Brother Ali. Guests: Amir K, Brother AliORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick...
2023-11-0230 minJoking Not JokingIs Porn Addiction a Public Health Crisis?Mo, AZ, the Professor, and Guruji discuss the pornification of the modern world—its impact on society, mental health, and how it affects dating, marriage, and relationships today. The genie’s out of the bottle, and in everyone’s pocket. More Info:Book: Pornified: How Pornography Is Damaging Our Lives, Our Relationships, and Our Families by Pamela Paul (Henry Holt & Company: 2005)https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pornified Need Help? Check out the non-profit Fight The New Drug:https://fightthenewdrug.orgORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC...
2023-10-2619 minJoking Not JokingO Canada! Wannabe America? ft. Dave MerhejeMo and AZ razz Lebanese-Canadian standup comedian, actor, and dear friend Dave Merheje (Ramy, Sometimes I Think About Dying) on not only being from Canada, but wanting to move back. Their roast of Canada takes a very important, very relevant pit stop on their journey towards Realness.Guest: Dave MerhejeORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan Head of Production: Liz LeMay
2023-10-1926 minJoking Not JokingAre We Living in a Simulation? ft. Amir SulaimanElon Musk supposedly believes in Nick Bostrom’s “Simulation Hypothesis,” the notion that we are living in a hyper-realistic computer simulation. Are we? Mo and AZ consult with 3x Grammy-nominated poet and Marvel screenwriter Amir Sulaiman about whether we’re currently, at this moment, right now, living in a simulation, or if it’s just a mindf*ck of a situation. Enjoy “The Simulation Song” and plan to listen to this uber-trippy, mind-bending episode at least twice. It’s so weird. Guest: Amir SulaimanORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALT
2023-10-1224 minJoking Not JokingWhat Is Realness Anyway? ft. Quintessa SwindellActor Quintessa Swindwell (Black Adam, Trinkets) and the hosts get into one of the core questions of The Lexicon: What *is* realness? Can we find objective truth in the modern world? How do we remain authentic to ourselves, while steering clear of counterfeit truth claims?Guest: Quintessa Swindell ORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan Head of Production: Liz LeMayHe...
2023-10-0523 minJoking Not JokingBelieve in Ghosts? ft. Ahamed Weinberg and Paul EliaMo, AZ, and comedian Ahamed Weinberg discuss the demonic forces they’ve encountered in childhood basements, AirBnBs, and at Coachella!? Comedian homie Paul Elia also chimes in. Oh, and Bollywood agent “Ozzie Patel” calls up the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International with some questions re: devil worship.Guests: Ahamed Weinberg, Paul EliaORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan Head of Production: Liz LeM...
2023-09-2825 minJoking Not JokingSo You Wanna Live Forever? ft. Ramy YoussefDo most people live in a state of ‘death denial’? Should we all aspire to live to a healthy 102; or shoot for a more modest, albeit blessed, 63 years? Are therapy, astrology, and deep breathing the keys to a longer, happier life? Actor, comedian, and writer Ramy Youssef joins Mo and AZ for some light AF banter.Guest: Ramy YoussefORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan Head of Pr...
2023-09-2125 minJoking Not JokingWait, So Aliens Are Real?!Meet “The Professor” (the defacto guide through the Joking Not Joking universe), who introduces The Realness Lexicon (a shorthand meta-language co-created by the hosts). Mo and AZ discuss the central importance of “keeping it real,” the purported existence of aliens, the moon landing, proper drying techniques after relieving oneself, and the inherent superiority of the iPhone. More Info:Article: “Former Israeli space security chief saysextraterrestrials exist and Trump knows about it” Link: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/ncna1250333ORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive...
2023-09-1320 minJoking Not JokingWho is Mo? Who is Azhar?Join comedians Mo Amer and Azhar Usman on a journey—towards uncovering the sometimes funny, sometimes terrifying Big Answers to life’s Big Questions (Are we living in a simulation? What is money? Where did the world come from?)—all while remaining really real with yourself and your friends.ORIGINAL AUDIO PRODUCTION, MUSIC & SOUND DESIGN BY SALTExecutive Produced by Mo Amer, Azhar Usman, Noah Gersh, Jamie Schefman, Nick Panama, Kenzi WilburHead of Creative: Jordan Galvan Head of Production: Liz LeMayHead of Post Production: Robert AdlerPr...
2023-09-1301 min
Modern MinoritiesAzhar Usman believes in (the) Truth“Who controls the rhythm of the algorithm?” Azhar Usman is a Muslim American writer, actor, comedian, producer - and many other things - of Indian descent (by way of Chicago). Dave Chappelle once declared, “Azhar’s like a comedian from the future.” One of the most outspoken voices of his generation, Azhar’s a writer & Co-Executive Producer for Hulu’s award-winning RAMY (stop what you’re doing and watch this show NOW). Marvel Studios recently also announced that Azhar would be joining the MCU in the highly anticipated Disney+ show MS.MARVEL (Raman fan-girls over the comic it’s based on). Az...
2023-04-031h 11
Modern MinoritiesAzhar Usman believes in (the) Truth“Who controls the rhythm of the algorithm?” Azhar Usman is a Muslim American writer, actor, comedian, producer - and many other things - of Indian descent (by way of Chicago). Dave Chappelle once declared, “Azhar’s like a comedian from the future.” One of the most outspoken voices of his generation, Azhar’s a writer & Co-Executive Producer for Hulu’s award-winning RAMY (stop what you’re doing and watch this show NOW). Marvel Studios recently also announced that Azhar would be joining the MCU in the highly anticipated Disney+ show MS.MARVEL (Raman fan-girls over the comic it’s based on). Az...
2023-04-031h 11
Modern MinoritiesAzhar Usman believes in (the) Truth“Who controls the rhythm of the algorithm?”Azhar Usman is a Muslim American writer, actor, comedian, producer - and many other things - of Indian descent (by way of Chicago). Dave Chappelle once declared, “Azhar’s like a comedian from the future.” One of the most outspoken voices of his generation, Azhar’s a writer & Co-Executive Producer for Hulu’s award-winning RAMI (stop what you’re doing and watch this show NOW). Marvel Studios recently also announced that Azhar would be joining the MCU in the highly anticipated Disney+ show MS.MARVEL (Raman fan-girls over the comic it’s based on). A...
2021-04-161h 09
The TFM PodcastEverybody's Bad In Bed With Somebody (@RealMoAmer)Jared is joined on this week's Tuesday episode of The JTrain Podcast by comic Mo Amer to read your emails and answer questions about how to deal with a girl who's too aggressive in bed, dealing with false rumors about your sexual prowess, next steps after a girl suddenly breaks off communication, determining whether a guy is just flirty or interested in something more, and how to get guys to buy you drinks at the bar. Plus, Hypotheticals and the news with comic Azhar Usman and ManSamp. Check it out, and enjoy.
twitter.com/JTrain56 // twitter.com...
2017-04-241h 06