Reşmall: The Kurdish Culture Podcast

What is the meaning of friendship in Kurdish culture? In the season finale of Reşmall , hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy are joined by special guest Zana, a pharmacist and cultural researcher from Bakur. Together, they explore the profound depth, loyalty, and even sacredness that defines friendship within Kurdish culture. The team discusses the powerful meanings behind the Kurdish words for friends...

In January 2026, a shocking video of a Syrian soldier holding the braid of a fallen female Kurdish fighter sparked a global outcry. But why did this specific act ignite a worldwide campaign? In this episode of Reşmall , hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy dive into the deep-rooted cultural and historical significance of hair in Kurdistan. From the ancient stone carvings of long-haired rulers to classi...

Why do Kurds love the bazaar so much? In this sixth episode of Reşmall , hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy dive deep into the sensory, social, and historical heart of the bazaar. Discover why the city and the bazaar are entirely inseparable in Kurdish identity , how a vibrant chaikhana transforms into a "social parliament" across all classes, and even the historical role these bustling alleyways pla...

How do Kurdish couples get engaged and get married? In Episode 5 of Reşmall , hosts Stephen, Andy, and Sarhad dive into the complex world of Kurdish engagements and weddings. Joined by special guest Shabin, they explore everything from mothers on secret scouting missions to historical "wife-for-wife" exchanges. Learn how Mullahs formalize contracts and why dowries involve kilograms of gold. The gr...

What is the most important Kurdish holiday? In this fourth episode of Reşmall: The Kurdish Culture Podcast, hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy dive into the heart of Kurdish culture by exploring Newroz. Joined by special guest Arazu Barwari, the team explores the powerful legend of Kawa the Blacksmith and his victory over the tyrant Zahak. They discuss why Newroz is far more than just a spring equino...

What is so significant about bread in Kurdistan? In Kurdish culture, bread is far more than food — it is a symbol of life, God’s blessing, and deep moral bonds. Join hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy as they explore the sacred respect for naan, from ancient agricultural roots to everyday rituals: kissing fallen bread, never wasting it, and the powerful social covenant of “bread and salt.” Discover w...

Why is Kurdish hospitality so amazing? In this episode of Reşmall, the Kurdish Culture Podcast, hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy explore one of the most renowned aspects of Kurdish culture: hospitality. The discussion dives into why hospitality is so central to Kurdish life—rooted in survival in harsh environments, religious beliefs, and proverbs like “Guests are God’s guests.” Listeners learn the...

Why do Kurds care so deeply about respect? In this inaugural episode of Reşmall, the Kurdish Culture Podcast, hosts Stephen, Sarhad, and Andy explore the foundational value of respect in Kurdish society. Discover how respect transforms daily interactions: a powerful Peshmerga officer humbly defers to an elderly grandmother, younger people stand for elders, offer seats, serve first, and use honorif...