Shows
The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 31: Islam and Identity Beyond Belief | With Ali RizviEpisode 31 of The Emancipated Citizen Podcast features a wide-ranging conversation between Zac Alrayyis and Ben Snow and Ali Rizvi, author of The Atheist Muslim and former co-host of Secular Jihadists.
In this episode, we talk with Ali about Muslim identity beyond belief, the difference between faith, culture, and politics, and the challenges faced by Muslims and ex-Muslims navigating public discourse in a polarized world. We explore how criticism of religion can coexist with respect for people, how liberal societies often struggle to hold that distinction, and why conversations around Islam are so frequently distorted by both bigotry...
2026-02-101h 21The Emancipated CitizenChristmas Special 2025: BioShock Was a Warning, Not Just a GameIn our Christmas Special 2025, Ben and Zac examine BioShock and BioShock Infinite as political warnings — not just games.
Across Rapture and Columbia, the BioShock series explores what happens when societies are built on absolutist ideologies: unrestrained libertarianism, weaponized revolution, religious nationalism, and historical mythmaking. In this episode, we trace how both worlds collapse under the weight of ideas that place power, purity, and destiny above human dignity.
We discuss Andrew Ryan’s radical vision of freedom without ethical limits, Atlas’s cynical manipulation of revolutionary language, and how political movements can hollow out ideology until it bec...
2026-01-081h 57The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 29: Charlie Kirk, America’s Democratic Collapse & the Paradox of ToleranceListen to Episode 29 of The Emancipated Citizen Podcast with Ben and Zac, where we examine the ongoing decay of Western democracy, the rise of political violence, and the moral challenge presented by the paradox of tolerance. These themes are sensitive and require a balance of blunt honesty with empathetic awareness toward those experiencing profound loss during this turbulent moment in history.
Our intention is not to disrespect the deceased or their families. Rather, we aim to acknowledge the harsh realities of how certain individuals and movements contributed to the current climate of political instability. We hope to...
2025-11-211h 35The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 28: A Warning for the Free WorldA warning from history and lived experience: authoritarian movements are rising across the West, dismantling democratic institutions under the guise of nationalism and “freedom.” From Saudi Arabia’s repression to Germany’s far-right surge, the patterns are clear — and the cost of inaction is high.
For the full transcript and citations for claims made, check out the article on Medium:
https://medium.com/@alrayyisabdulrazzag/a-warning-for-the-free-world-d14fcd06321b
#Democracy #Freedom #RuleOfLaw #HumanRights #AntiFascism #Authoritarianism #GermanyPolitics #FreeSpeech #StopTheAfD #DefendDemocracy
Consider supporting this project by becoming a patron:
patreon.com/TheEmancipatedCitizenPodcast
Or if you w...
2025-08-171h 09The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 27: Sponsored To A Safe Haven - One Post at a TimeIn this episode of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast, hosts Zac Alrayyis and Benjamin Snow have a conversation with Anas about his journey, a Syrian refugee. They explore the challenges faced by refugees, particularly ex-Muslims and LGBTQ individuals, in conservative societies like Egypt. The conversation delves into the importance of activism, social media connections, and the struggles of identity amidst societal pressures. This conversation delves into the complexities of refugee sponsorship, the challenges faced by individuals in oppressive environments, and the nuances of migration policies. The speakers share personal experiences and insights into the refugee process, highlighting the importance of...
2025-04-021h 27The Emancipated CitizenChristmas Special 2024: Goblins, Elves, and Fantastical Prejudice - The Politics of FantasyExploring Race and Representation in Fantasy Narratives | The Emancipated Citizen Podcast
In this thought-provoking holiday episode, we delve deep into the racial divides, hierarchies, and representation within beloved fantasy narratives. From the systemic marginalization of humanoid races like orcs, goblins, and house elves to the real-world cultural narratives that shape their creation, this episode critically examines the intersection of fantasy literature and societal prejudices.
Special guest Clarissa Janeen joins us to discuss:
The lived experiences of marginalized characters in fantasy worlds (The Lord of the Rings, Harry Pot...
2025-01-171h 35The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 25: Atheism, Identity, and the Fight for Reform in Egypt - A Conversation With Mohamemd NofalIn this episode, we sit down with Egyptian former Muslim and atheist Mohammed Nofal to discuss his courageous journey from Islam to atheism, his infamous TV appearance, and the broader struggles faced by ex-Muslims, atheists, and religious minorities in Egypt. We explore the country’s historical, cultural, and political landscape, delving into the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood, the impact of secular dictators, and the influence of Islamofascism on Egyptian society. Join us as we analyze the challenges of reforming Islam, the intersection of ethnic and cultural identity, and the potential paths toward a more inclusive and tolerant future fo...
2024-09-171h 54The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 24: From the Ring to the Kremlin – Trans-Hysteria At The OlympicsWelcome back to The Emancipated Citizen Podcast!
In our 24th episode, we, Ben and Zac, discuss the human rights implications and aspects of the 2024 Summer Olympics, starting with women’s boxing, the slander some of the competitors have faced, and the wider implications of this fiasco for LGBT and gender-non-conforming people in Algeria and beyond. We also examine the roles that prominent authors, such as J.K. Rowling and Richard Dawkins, have played in this context. As the discussion progresses, we delve deeper into the Kremlin’s and Putin’s role in driving the anti-trans hysteria that is inc...
2024-09-011h 09The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 23: Torn Borders & Broken Dreams - Georgia's Soviet Legacy and Quest for IndependenceJoin us on the latest episode of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast as we sit down with Gocha, a fierce Georgian activist, rallying against proposed legislation threatening the independence of NGOs in Georgia. Through a journey spanning from Georgia's tumultuous history with colonial powers to its modern struggles for sovereignty, Gocha shares firsthand accounts and personal insights. Explore the echoes of Soviet oppression, the tumultuous reign of Saakashvili, and the ongoing battle for human rights under Putin's shadow. With Gocha's impassioned plea for a future free from Russian meddling, this episode is a call to action for defenders of democracy...
2024-08-281h 06The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 22: Navigating Dual Identities - Expert Insights On Queer (Ex) Muslim Mental HealthIn our latest installment of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast, we engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with Jimmy Bangash, a trailblazing psychotherapist, activist, and representative of the Council of Ex Muslims of Great Britain. With a poignant blend of personal experience and professional expertise, Jimmy sheds light on the often overlooked struggles faced by ex-Muslims and LGBTQ+ individuals within Muslim societies. From navigating the intricacies of dual identities to confronting the harsh realities of ostracism and discrimination, Jimmy's insights offer a powerful testament to the resilience of marginalized communities. From the psychological toll of cultural norms to the urgent need...
2024-05-0952 minThe Emancipated CitizenEpisode 21: Free Russians For for Peace And Human RightsJoin us for a conversation in Episode 21 of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast, as we sit down with Yalo, a courageous Russian activist who has dedicated their life to advocating for peace, human rights, and environmental justice. Despite facing exile due to their unwavering activism against the invasion of Ukraine and systemic corruption, Yalo continues to champion the cause of a more open and inclusive society. Through their tireless efforts in amplifying queer voices and and calling for peace, Yalo exemplifies the resilience and determination of those fighting for justice in the face of adversity. An important topic of our...
2024-03-1159 minThe Emancipated CitizenEpisode 20: Breaking Chains - Women's Rights and Faith's FrayWelcome back to the Emancipated Citizen Podcast! In this latest episode, we sit down with Zara Kay, a courageous women's rights advocate and Ex-Muslim from Tanzania. As the founder of Faithless Hijabi, Zara has been a guiding light for countless women navigating life beyond religion and the hijab. Join us as we delve into the depths of social injustices, from the harrowing realities of forced marriage to the urgent need to address anti-LGBT violence.
Throughout the conversation, Zara confronts the challenges and obstacles faced by women seeking autonomy and freedom in societies dominated by oppressive n...
2024-02-261h 05The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 19: A Trans-Continental Exchange - Queer Plight, Flight, And RightsWelcome to another episode of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast where we host brave individuals fighting for freedom and individuality. This episode features Lilith Hanoum, a refugee from Pakistan currently residing in Germany, advocating tirelessly for the rights of the trans and LGBT community. Dive into Lilith's inspiring tale, as she navigates her identity against societal pressures, within a cultural and religious framework, and eventually opens up to the existence of a third gender.
Born in a Pakistani village in the 80s, Lilith faced a struggle with understanding her identity amid traditional gender roles. Her journey to self-discovery...
2024-02-121h 19The Emancipated CitizenChristmas Special 2023: Starship Troopers-Human Rights In The Terran FederationCelebrate the holidays with a twist! Our festive episode takes you on a riveting journey through the worlds of Starship Troopers, both in literary and cinematic realms. Explore the dynamics of human rights in this futuristic saga, drawing parallels between the 1959 novel and the 1997 film. Spoiler alert: it's not just about battling bugs; it's a thought-provoking adventure into the heart of freedom and democracy.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook:
@TheEmancipatedCitizen
https://instagram.com/theemancipatedcitizen?igsh=bTUyZ2dibjlv0Wxw
htttps://facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946791964
Feel free to contact us...
2024-01-091h 44The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 17: The War In Gaza - Tales Of Lies And BloodIn our latest episode, we embark on an exploration of the historical background surrounding the ongoing conflict in the middle east. Our journey unfolds as we delve into the complexities of the narratives, shedding light on the myths and propaganda perpetuated by both sides. From scrutinizing Instagram reels to dissecting other social media posts and distressing statements from Israeli officials, we aim to unravel the layers of misinformation that have contributed to the intensity of this war.
As we navigate through the tumultuous sea of information, we confront the harsh realities and biases that have s...
2023-11-131h 02The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 16: Unraveling the Web of Repression - The Assault on Saudi Voices and International WhitewashingIn this episode, we embark on a comprehensive journey into the complex web of repression in Saudi Arabia, with a spotlight on the suppression of social media activists. Our discussion navigates through the multifaceted layers of this issue, covering topics that range from the role of international figures like Trump, to the intricate involvement of the NSO Group, and Saudi Arabia's sophisticated whitewashing campaign.
We explore the outward moves towards liberalization, such as the new entertainment and tourism industries and sportswashing, which aims to present a more open image to the world. As we dissect t...
2023-10-301h 32The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 15: Kirkuk, A Frontier Of Kurdish IdentityJoin us for an enlightening podcast episode with hosts Zac and Ben, and special guest Hama Zangana. Explore the rich history and contemporary challenges of Kurdish identity, from past genocides to the complex issues of autonomy and contested territories.
This engaging conversation covers the role of America, the impact of ISIS, Iran's influence, and modern Iraq-Iran politics. Gain insights into the current situation in Kirkuk, proposed solutions, sanctions, and the role of NGOs and humanitarian relief efforts.
The episode concludes with reflections on the aspiration of a free Kurdistan and the in...
2023-10-152h 30The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 14: Justice For Eden (Part 2)
In our last episode of the season, the conversation continues, on Eden's tragic death and the far too common phenomena associated with it. We hear from our dear friend and colleague Wajeeh Lion, and go on to talk about the future of human rights in Saudi Arabia. We will miss you all for the time being, but we'll definitely be back.
Listen to part 1 here:
https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-ytz4m-13d20a0?utm_campaign=w_share_ep&utm_medium=dlink&utm_source=w_share
Contact me & Ben through our Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id...
2023-06-241h 21The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 13: From Bangladesh to Atheist Alliance International, Worldwide Solidarity CountsWe're honored to present to you our conversation with a dear friend and colleague at AAI, Tonoy Emroz. A free-thinker from Bangladesh, he has been overseeing the Atheist Support Network, serving on the AAI board of directors, writing, and helping many around the world through his work; we can attest to that personally. We talked about human rights in Bangladesh and beyond. We hope you find it enjoyable and informative.
Don't forget to chexk out Tonoy's blog :
https://www.atheistalliance.org/author/tonoy-emroz/
And click here if you want to know...
2023-04-161h 08The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 12: Justice For Eden (Part 1)The tragic death of Eden Knight left us shocked and outraged. A 23 year old trans woman who was lured to Saudi Arabia, back from the United States, abused and denied medical treatment, she found herself in an impossible situation and was left with the choice of ending it all. So systematic yet still so heavy. So incredibly needless. So close to home. Listen to our conversation with Dawn about the campaign demanding justice for her. Don't forget to subscribe and stay tuned for part two, where we'll hear from other Saudi activists and discuss the situation in the kingdom.
2023-04-0336 minThe Emancipated CitizenEpisode 11: The Struggles of the RohingyaJon is a journalist, activist and Rohingya refugee who was able to find a new home in Canada and today he told us about his struggles and the plight of the Rohingya people both in and out of Myanmar.
See his writing at https://www.humansinflight.org/home
2023-03-281h 18The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 10: Northern Lights Canada, helping ordinary citizens give refugees new lives in Canada.In a slight change from our usual format, we interviewed Stephen Watt, a founder of Northern Lights Canada who helps people sponsor refugees for resettlement in Canada. Are you interested in helping victims of human rights abuses directly? Well, if you are from Canada and have four friends who want to help to, you can.
2023-03-1554 minThe Emancipated CitizenEpisode 9: Religious Liberty In MalaysiaIn our latest episode we spoke to a Malasian asylum seeker in Sweden who has lost hope in living in freedom and dignity in his own home country after a long and frustrating court case where he tried to change his religious status, not be subject to Sharia Law, and thereby gain more civil liberties.
Can you add Encik Murtad FB https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100072720973272
YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@GerakanMurtadMalaysia
Twitter : https://twitter.com/FairuzMurtad
2023-02-121h 32The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 8: Time To End Witch Perscecutions In AfricaIn this episode of The Emancipated Citizen we talk to Dr. Leo Igwe who is an advocate for accused witches, a Doctor of Philosophy and co-founder of Advocacy for Accused Witches in Nigeria. Check out AfAW: https://advocacyforallegedwitches.law.blog/about-afaw/?fbclid=IwAR1RRJ0RKU2RLBk-0WGma_LqZfj2TTffUhUr6oRdsvAqNgRaAGyCqjJjkNk
This episode was informative and fun to record. If you enjoyed listening please subscribe and leave us a rating. Thanks!
2023-01-151h 39The Emancipated CitizenChristmas Special 2022: Human Rights in WesterosOn this holiday special we have a more light-hearted discussion about The World of Ice and Fire and the state of human rights in it. Do be warned though if you're not up to date there will be plenty of spoilers.
2022-12-301h 13The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 6: Woman, Life, Freedom - A New Revolution For IranIn this episode we interviewed Fati Masjedi, an Iranian exile and activist, about the history of Iran, the oppression the people of Iran face from the Islamic Republic and the hope for a democratic future.
2022-12-121h 11The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 5: Ukraine Aid Ops - Defending The European Frontier
In this episode, we're honored to present an exclusive interview with the Ukraine Aid Ops to bring you a first-hand perspective on the Ukrainian war.
For more on UAO, visit their website at:
https://ukraineaidops.org
Check out Hari ( @Hari_est ) and Maria ( @maria_drutska ) on Twitter.
2022-11-2842 minThe Emancipated CitizenEpisode 4: Working Towards An LGBT Friendly Saudi ArabiaWe have a conversation with one of the first openly gay Saudis in the scene, Wajeeh Lion, loudly protesting the Kingdom's criminalization and persecution of the LGBTQ community. We talk about the current situation, Saudi opposition, and stands of solidarity.
Subscribe to Wajeeh's YouTube Channel and follow him on Twitter!
https://www.youtube.com/c/WajeehGayLion
https://twitter.com/WajeehLionn
2022-10-171h 08The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 3: Ukraine In 2022 - An Insider’s PerspectiveIn this episode of the Emancipated Citizen Podcast we talk to the Ukrainian Journalist and host of the Ukraine Without Hype Podcast, Romeo Kokriatzki. We explore the political history of Ukraine and its current civil liberties situation after the Russian invasion. How did the country's political landscape develop to get to where we are today? How free are people in Ukraine? What is it like to live there through the war? Those and many more pressing questions are discussed in this episode.
2022-10-021h 03The Emancipated CitizenEpisode 2: The Plight Of The Saudi Shia MinorityIn this episode we explore the history of the Al Ihsa region of Saudi Arabia and the ongoing conflict between Wahabi hegemony in the country and the minority Shi`a community, their struggles for religious freedom and self-determination, with a special guest who grew up in this community and has had some harrowing experiences with the Saudi authorities.
2022-09-181h 10The Emancipated CitizenThe Emancipated Citizen Premire: Our MissionThis podcast is to be a platform for activists standing up against authoritarianism across the globe. We believe that every human is entitled to democratic representation and universal human rights. As the voices those people far too often get lost in the global discussion in favor of western-centered politics, we have taken those as our main focus. The podcast’s individual episodes will be centered around the experiences and backgrounds of activists around the world.
2022-09-0421 min