Beyond the Summit with Amir Golshani

Did the U.S. Just Fail in Iran? | Professor Kian Tajbakhsh

Amir Golshani — Fri, 22 May 2026 16:14:35 GMT

Is the United States facing a quiet, strategic humiliation in the Middle East? In this episode of the Beyond the Summit podcast, host Amir Golshani rejoins renowned international relations expert and former political prisoner Dr. Kian Tajbakhsh to dissect the hidden mechanics of a chaotic geopolitical standoff. Dr. Tajbakhsh delivers an unfiltered masterclass on why current Western strategies may be failing their war aims, how secret Chinese and Russian shadow banking networks are keeping Tehran's economy on life support, and the shocking reality behind leaked reports regarding Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Tune in to discover whether Washington's latest diplomatic moves are accidentally guaranteeing a much more brutal, nuclear-armed conflict down the line, or if a fragmented diaspora can truly spark a transition inside a regime prepared to use absolute force.

The Illusion of Iranian Power: Why the Regime is Imploding | Jason Brodsky

Amir Golshani — Wed, 13 May 2026 22:27:48 GMT

In this high-stakes episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Jason Brodsky, Policy Director at United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI), to expose the "hollow" reality of the Iranian regime in 2026. As the naval blockade tightens and the Islamic Republic faces a "terminal" economic crisis, Brodsky reveals why the regime's military threats are increasingly empty and how their alliance with China is a strategic illusion. From the hidden vulnerabilities of the IRGC to the shifting dynamics of the Mojtaba Khamenei succession, this conversation deconstructs the defeatist narratives in the West and explores why the Iranian people remain the ultimate game-changer for regional peace. If you want to understand why the "illusion of power" is finally shattering and what the Trump administration’s next moves could be, this deep dive is essential viewing for anyone tracking the endgame of the Islamic Republic.

U.S. Retired Admiral Mark Montgomery: The IRGC Must Be Punished

Amir Golshani — Tue, 12 May 2026 00:30:39 GMT

This episode of Beyond the Summit delivers a masterclass in global strategy as host Amir Golshani sits down with Retired Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery, the "chief architect" of modern cyber sovereignty and a definitive voice on integrated deterrence. In this explosive first episode, Montgomery pulls back the curtain on the silent byproduct of the upcoming Trump-Xi summit, exposing why China may view the Iranian regime as an "expendable" asset in the face of a crippling U.S. maritime blockade. From the haunting "amnesia" of Europe regarding the IRGC’s murder of 32,000 citizens in just 36 hours to the tactical reality of what targets remain after the decimation of Iran’s drone and missile power, this conversation moves beyond the headlines to reveal the high-stakes game of regime change, the feasibility of arming internal opposition, and the potential for a secular, democratic future led by Prince Reza Pahlavi. Watch to understand why the fight for the Strait of Hormuz is about more than just oil, it is a battle for the very definition of freedom and the opportunity for a new generation of Iranians to finally break free from 47 years of "mafia-style" rule.

Is the Iranian Regime Actually Close to Collapse? Aaron David Miller

Amir Golshani — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 18:17:55 GMT

Is the Islamic Republic reaching a "hurting stalemate," or is the worst yet to come?

In this urgent episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with veteran diplomat Aaron David Miller, a man who spent 25 years "in the room" serving six U.S. Secretaries of State, to deconstruct the reality of the current naval blockade on Iran. As the world watches the Strait of Hormuz, Miller offers a sobering warning: geography is destiny, and while the U.S. is betting on economic "choking," history shows that regimes don't often collapse from the air or the sea alone. We dive into the "Trump mindset," the haunting possibility of Iran turning into a "North Korea of the Middle East," and why Washington’s biggest blind spot might be the very people it claims to support.

The End of the Regime: Canada’s Role in Iran’s Collapse | Peter MacKay

Amir Golshani — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:30:00 GMT

"Kick them out." These are the three words former Canadian Defense and Foreign Affairs Minister Peter MacKay has for those tied to the Iranian regime living in Canada.

As the Iranian economy faces a 180% inflation "death spiral" and a naval blockade, we are at a historical hinge point. Is the regime truly collapsing, or is this a strategic pause?

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Peter MacKay (former Minister of National Defense, Foreign Affairs, and Justice) to unpack the "spillover effect" that a free Iran would have on the Western world.

Save Its Head or Save Its Face? Iran’s Final Gamble | Dr. Nazee Moinian

Amir Golshani — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 20:00:00 GMT

In this high stakes episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Dr. Nazee Moinian, a diplomat, PhD scholar, and adjunct fellow at the Middle East Institute, to dissect a regime in its final bind. From the "unthinkable" possibility of a nuclear dirty bomb to the "Lionesses" of Gen Z leading a new revolution, this is a masterclass in the cold reality of Middle Eastern geopolitics. Dr. Moinian reveals why she’s shifted from supporting diplomacy to advocating for a "Reagan-style" blueprint of internal pressure, explaining why Tehran must now choose between saving its head or saving its face. If you want to understand why the "blockading of the blockade" has left the regime with no way out, this conversation is your front-row seat to the endgame.

"I Despise My Own Government" | Jeffrey Sachs’ Shocking Apology to Iran

Amir Golshani — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 21:00:00 GMT

In this explosive episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani goes head to head with world-renowned economist and geopolitical strategist Professor Jeffrey Sachs in a debate that challenges the very foundation of Western foreign policy. You are about to witness a rare, unfiltered confrontation: Sachs issues a stunning apology for 70 years of "appalling" U.S. intervention, while Golshani, speaking from his lived experience on the streets of Tehran, demands accountability for the "bullets" and "executions" carried out by the regime itself. Is Iran a victim of a global "American Empire," or is the civilization being held hostage from within? From the "Axis of Evil" to the secret maneuvers of the CIA and Mossad, this conversation strips away the propaganda to reveal the uncomfortable truth about the future of the Iranian people. Watch to the end for Professor Sachs’ direct message to the students of Tehran University, it is a moment of raw honesty you won't see on mainstream news.

$435 Million a Day: The Math That Destroys The Iranian Regime | Miad Maleki

Amir Golshani — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT

As a US naval blockade tightens around the Strait of Hormuz and a fragile ceasefire hangs by a thread, the Iranian regime is bleeding $435 million every single day. In this urgent episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Miad Maleki, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) and former US Treasury official and the strategic architect behind the "Maximum Pressure" campaign, to reveal the surgical financial math that is pushing the Islamic Republic to a total breaking point. From the "Day 16" countdown when Iran’s oil storage hits maximum capacity to the internal desperation of a regime that can no longer pay its own soldiers, Miad provides an unprecedented insider’s look at the financial warfare currently reshaping the Middle East. Whether you are tracking the global economy or the future of a free Iran, this conversation delivers the definitive roadmap to the regime's looming economic collapse.

Iran’s Regime Thinks It’s Winning | Meir Javedanfar

Amir Golshani — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Dr. Meir Javedanfar, a leading Iranian-Israeli analyst and lecturer at Reichman University. As tensions reach a breaking point in the Strait of Hormuz and secret negotiations surface in Pakistan, Dr. Javedanfar delivers a chilling warning: The Islamic Republic is "drunk on power" and has learned nothing from the catastrophic end of the Iran-Iraq War.

Iran Is Closer to Collapse Than Anyone Admits | Mehrdad Marty Youssefiani

Amir Golshani — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 18:15:00 GMT

Is the Islamic Republic closer to collapse than anyone admits?

While the world watching the fragile ceasefire, a deeper crisis is unfolding inside Iran. The regime is no longer fighting to win, it is fighting to survive. In this high stakes episode of Beyond the Summit, we go behind the headlines with an ultimate insider who has spent decades "in the room where it happens."

Mehrdad Marty Youssefiani, Director of Iran Freedom Congress, joins host Amir Golshani to pull back the curtain on the regime’s "No Legitimacy" crisis. From the psychological trauma of the 1975 OPEC siege to the "Persian Carpet" vision for a pluralistic future, this conversation defines the moment the Islamic Republic became a "parasite" on its own civilization.

Why Iranians are "Afraid" of the Ceasefire | Behnam Ben Taleblu

Amir Golshani — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 20:45:00 GMT

Is this the end of the Islamic Republic, or just a strategic breather? At this historic inflection point, Amir Golshani sits down with Behnam Ben Taleblu (FDD) to dissect the fragile ceasefire in Islamabad and why the Iranian people are "afraid of peace."

As the first high level physical negotiations since 1979 loom, the region stands on a knife's edge. While headlines talk about diplomacy, the reality on the ground in Iran tells a different story: of 10 year blackouts, regime led intimidation, and a population that feels "fair-weather" support from the West.

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, we cover:

The "Defanged" Regime: Why a military setback hasn't yet translated into political collapse.

The Strait of Hormuz: How 12 mines are holding the global energy market hostage.

The "Islamabad Trap": Are these negotiations a path to peace or a lifeline for the IRGC?

The Human Reality: Heartbreaking insights into what Iranians are saying on monitored landlines about "tolerating missiles" for the sake of freedom.

The North Korea Parallel: The dangerous lesson of the 1990s and why "finishing the job" matters.

Iran’s Next Move: Dirty Bomb, Ceasefire… or War Again? | Farzin Nadimi

Amir Golshani — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 23:45:00 GMT

Is the Iran ceasefire a tactical masterstroke or a catastrophic trap? Dr. Farzin Nadimi reveals why the IRGC is racing toward a "Dirty Bomb" while the world looks away.
The missiles have stopped, but the gears of war are turning faster than ever. In this urgent episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Dr. Farzin Nadimi, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute and a veteran historian of the IRGC’s military architecture.

As a fragile two-week truce holds, Dr. Nadimi delivers a chilling reality check: the "Mission is NOT Accomplished." While media focuses on the diplomatic theater in Islamabad, the regime is reportedly moving 60% enriched uranium to black sites. We explore the high-stakes transition from tactical strikes to the nightmare of a "gun-type" nuclear device.

Trump’s Iran Strategy — The Real Game Behind It | Abteen Vaziri

Amir Golshani — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Abteen Vaziri, attorney, investment expert, and former U.S. Congressional candidate, to pull back the curtain on "Trump’s Gambit."

While the mainstream media focuses on the surface-level chaos, Abteen reveals the "Real Game": a calculated strategic move designed to bankrupt the Chinese Communist Party by severing their energy lifeblood in Tehran. From his childhood escaping the 1979 Revolution to his career in American finance and politics, Abteen brings a "high-signal" perspective on why the West is fundamentally misreading the Middle East and what the "Islamotrauma" in Western cities means for our future.

Iran Has Reached a Point of No Return | Professor Ali Ansari Explains

Amir Golshani — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Has Iran reached the point of no return? In this episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Professor Ali Ansari, one of the world’s most preeminent historians of modern Iran, to navigate the "fog of history" and uncover the terminal decline of the Islamic Republic. While the regime spends millions to control the narrative abroad, it has fundamentally lost the hearts and minds of its people at home. Professor Ansari breaks down why the "emotional contract" between the state and the people is permanently shattered and explains the historical patterns of recurrence that suggest we aren't just seeing a cycle of protests, we are witnessing the death of a political system.

Strongly recommend to follow Professor Ansari on Substack Iranshahr.substack.com

What Happens After the Fall of Iran’s Regime? | Mariam Memarsadeghi

Amir Golshani — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:15:00 GMT

What happens after the fall of Iran’s regime, and is the world ready for what comes next?

In this urgent conversation, Amir Golshani sits down with Mariam Memarsadeghi, Senior Fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute and co founder of Tavaana, to confront the question few are truly prepared to answer: what does a real transition to freedom actually look like?

They go beyond headlines and explore the hidden dynamics shaping Iran’s future, from the risk of a more militarized and paranoid regime if it survives, to the fragile path toward a stable, pluralistic transition if it falls. This episode unpacks the role of the Iranian people, the influence of global powers, the challenge of unity in opposition, and why removing a regime is only the beginning.

If you want to understand not just how this ends, but what comes after, this conversation will change how you see Iran’s future.

Iran War Is Entering a Point of No Return | Prof. Robert Pape

Amir Golshani — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:30:00 GMT

If we cross that line, there may be no way back.
What happens when power creates the illusion of control?
In this episode, Robert Pape, one of the world’s leading experts on war and escalation, breaks down why the current Iran conflict may be approaching a point that cannot be reversed.
Hosted by Amir Golshani, this conversation goes beyond headlines to reveal the hidden dynamics shaping the war, how tactical success can lead to strategic failure, why escalation traps powerful nations, and what phase three could mean for the global economy and the future of the region.

Iran at the Breaking Point: Collapse, Chaos… or Democracy? | Kian Tajbakhsh

Amir Golshani — Sun, 22 Mar 2026 19:30:00 GMT

In this high stakes episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani sits down with Professor Kian Tajbakhsh, a respected scholar of urban policy, governance, and civil society whose profound insights are forged from both elite academia and the harrowing reality of political imprisonment inside Iran. As the Islamic Republic faces unprecedented internal and external pressure, Tajbakhsh argues that the regime is effectively writing its own "suicide note" through recent military escalations. Moving beyond mere geopolitical analysis, this conversation explores the "dual-column" nature of the Iranian state and the rare, empirical evidence that suggests Iran is more prepared for a democratic transition than any other nation in the region. From a formative childhood encounter with a Soviet soldier to the "viscosity" of Persian culture and the technical blueprints for repurposing state institutions, Tajbakhsh provides a masterclass on what it truly takes to rebuild a nation from the ashes of totalitarianism. This is an essential deep dive into power, resilience, and the endgame for a society standing on the precipice of a new era.

Iran After the Regime: Vali Nasr on Collapse, IRGC, and the Vacuum

Amir Golshani — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 22:15:00 GMT

This high stakes discussion with world renowned analyst Professor Vali Nasr provides a definitive look at an Iran currently undergoing its most seismic transformation in decades. In this episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani challenges the conventional wisdom that the Islamic Republic is a purely religious state, as Nasr argues instead that it has evolved into a hard headed, nationalist military bureaucracy. They break down the internal "silent coup" by the IRGC, the strategic logic behind Tehran’s refusal to buckle under unprecedented decapitation strikes following the 2026 uprisings, and the historical burden of the 1979 Revolution, where Nasr asserts that intellectuals "wanted to be fooled" by Khomeini. From the controversial identity politics of the Iranian diaspora to the terrifying prospect of a power vacuum in Tehran, this conversation offers an essential briefing on why the current regime is no longer sustainable and what forces are truly positioned to seize the future of Iran.

Iran Ends in 1 of 3 Ways, Richard Miniter Explanis

Amir Golshani — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 17:30:00 GMT

In this gripping episode of Beyond the Summit, investigative journalist and national security expert Richard Miniter joins Amir Golshani to deconstruct the escalating conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Shifting the focus from headlines to the harsh realities on the ground, Miniter argues that we have moved past a "war of choice" into a war of absolute necessity driven by Iran’s nuclear capabilities. From the internal economic collapse fueling a new revolution to the hidden failures of intelligence bureaucracies and the media, this conversation explores the three possible endgames for the Iranian regime. Discover why the "No-Kill" list exists, how global insurance markets are actually the ones closing the Straits of Hormuz, and what a post-1979 Iran could mean for the future of global stability.

Who Takes Power After Khamenei in Iran? Alex Vatanka on Iran’s Next Battle

Amir Golshani — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Alex Vatanka, a renowned Iran analyst, talks to Amir Golshani and shares insights on Iran's internal power struggles, regional geopolitics, and the prospects for regime change. This conversation explores the complexities of Iran's regime, the impact of internal factions, and the potential future scenarios for Iran and the Middle East.

The Fall of the Islamic Regime? Eli Lake on the "End of the Failed Experiment"

Amir Golshani — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 02:18:38 GMT

The fall of the Islamic Regime of Iran is no longer a question of "if," but "when." Renowned investigative journalist Eli Lake joins Amir Golshani to break down why the Iranian regime is at its weakest point in 47 years. From Israel’s unprecedented intelligence penetration to the "stolen revolution" of 1979, we explore the strategic roadmap for a post-mullah Iran. Is this the beginning of the end for the "failed experiment"?

The Biggest U.S Mistake On Iran — Behnam Ben Taleblu Explains

Amir Golshani — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:02:56 GMT

In this episode, Behnam, a leading Iran analyst and senior director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, talks to Amir Golshani and dives deep into Iran’s missile expansion, nuclear thresholds, and regional proxies. You'll discover how Tehran’s technical advancements, like 60% enriched uranium and covert facilities, are intertwined with their political maneuvers. We break down why indirect talks, missile build-up, and military posturing all serve the regime's long-term goal: survival at all costs.
Behnam shares the hidden lessons from history that reveal Tehran’s pattern of buying time, and what this means for Western diplomacy and deterrence. He explains why a peace deal that ignores missile capabilities risks delaying crises rather than solving them, and how the regime’s psychological playbook keeps the world on edge. With a focus on credible verification, the future of negotiations, and limited military options, this conversation is essential for policymakers, analysts, and anyone serious about understanding Iran’s true intentions.
If you care about avoiding a nuclear-armed Iran, want to understand the strategic mind behind its military doctrine, or seek insight into how history repeats itself, this episode is a must-listen. Behnam’s perspective offers clarity on the fine line between diplomacy and danger and what it takes to tip the balance toward stability, not catastrophe.
Why this works:
This episode immediately captivates by revealing how Tehran’s real strategy often involves deception, buying time, and military brinkmanship key insights that challenge common narratives. It targets policymakers, strategists, and informed listeners eager to decode Iran’s moves before crises spiral out of control. The specific analysis, historical lessons, and practical implications make it compelling and relatable, increasing the chances that browsers will hit play to understand the high-stakes game in Iran.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Behnam Ben Taleblu and His Expertise
05:02 Personal Journey: From Curiosity to Expertise
08:01 Defining Moments: Understanding Iran's Complex Landscape
10:36 Misunderstandings and Evolving Perspectives on Iran
13:52 Mental Resilience in High-Stakes Analysis
17:09 Recommended Readings for Understanding Iran
18:44 Discipline and Habits for Aspiring Analysts
21:33 Current Diplomatic Dynamics: Indirect Talks with Tehran
24:50 Technical Negotiations: Challenges and Realities
27:22 Positioning vs. Compromise in Diplomatic Talks
31:53 Strategic Time Buying: The Regime's Calculated Moves
34:11 Political Timelines: The Clock of Diplomacy and Conflict
37:42 Nuclear Enrichment: Understanding the Path to Weapons Capability
45:27 The Threat of Covert Nuclear Developments
50:43 Military Posturing: Precaution or Preparation?
54:56 Iran's Calculated Risks: Fear of Confrontation vs. Political Survival
58:12 Limited Military Action and Its Implications
01:04:08 The Role of Ballistic Missiles in Iran's Strategy
01:07:15 Challenges of Nuclear and Missile Negotiations
01:11:23 The Consequences of Military Restraint
01:15:21 Designing an Optimal Outcome for Iran
01:19:12 Strategic Mistakes and the Importance of Resolve
01:23:33 Defining Freedom and Its Importance
01:26:47 Beyond the Summit: Reflections on Engagement

Will Iran’s Regime Collapse Or Is the IRGC Too Strong?

Amir Golshani — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:30:00 GMT

In this conversation, Dr. Afshon Ostovar joins Amir Golshani and delves into the intricate power dynamics within Iran, focusing on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its evolution from a disorganized group to a formidable institution. He discusses the IRGC's multifaceted role in Iranian society, including its military, economic, and political influence. The resilience of the Iranian regime is examined, highlighting the importance of ideological consistency and elite protection. The impact of foreign intervention, leadership succession, and the sociopolitical implications of ongoing protests are also explored. Dr. Ostovar emphasizes the significance of public pressure for potential regime change while reflecting on the broader meaning of freedom and the future of Iran.

The Hidden Cost of Staying Quiet - Annahid Dashtgard

Amir Golshani — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 21:45:00 GMT

In this conversation, Annahid Dashtgard talks with Amir Golshani and shares her insights on belonging, leadership, and the personal journey of navigating identity as an immigrant. She discusses the profound impact of exclusion and the importance of confronting personal trauma to foster a sense of belonging. Annahid emphasizes the need for holistic health, the emotional labor involved in leadership, and the significance of storytelling in personal reconciliation. The dialogue explores the complexities of leadership, particularly for racialized individuals, and the ongoing process of reconciliation in both personal and societal contexts. Annahid's work aims to create inclusive spaces and empower individuals to embrace their true selves while navigating the challenges of modern society.

Iran Is Closer Than You Think — Nazanin Afshin-Jam on Unity & People Power

Amir Golshani — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 20:45:00 GMT

In this conversation, Nazanin Afshin Jam talks with Amir Golshani about the importance of unity for Iranian people and emphasizes on the power of people's collective strength and also shares her journey as an activist, discussing the importance of collective action, the challenges of navigating mental health in activism, and the role of personal experiences in shaping her advocacy. She emphasizes the need for unity in diversity, the responsibility of everyday people to educate themselves, and the impact of small acts of kindness. The discussion also touches on the lies propagated by totalitarian regimes, the role of media in shaping narratives, and the hope that the youth bring for future change.

How to Build Discipline When Motivation Is Gone

Amir Golshani — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 20:45:00 GMT

Most people misunderstand pressure and discipline. This conversation resets both. In this conversation, Coach Willy Manigat talks with Amir Golshani and shares his journey from a competitive childhood in Montreal and Ottawa to becoming a successful coach at Brock University. He discusses the importance of discipline, mindset, and accountability in both sports and life. Coach Willy emphasizes the role of mentorship, the significance of building a winning culture, and the lessons learned from adversity. He reflects on the values he hopes to instill in his players, the importance of self-accountability, and the impact of fatherhood on his leadership style. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the need for resilience, the power of teamwork, and the definition of true wealth beyond monetary gains.

Why “Islam Is the Problem” Feels True (And Why It Isn’t) | Dr. Reza Aslan

Amir Golshani — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:18:04 GMT

In this conversation, Reza Aslan discusses the enduring relevance of his book 'No God but God' with Amir Golshani and reflects on the evolution of his thoughts on Islam, identity, and the role of religion in society. He emphasizes the importance of understanding Islam in its historical context, the impact of social media on religious discourse, and the misconceptions that persist about Islam. Aslan also shares personal insights on public scrutiny, the cost of speaking out, and the significance of storytelling in bridging divides. The conversation highlights the complexities of belief, the search for meaning, and the need for compassion in a polarized world.

How to Stop Waiting for Life to Begin (Without Quitting Your Job)

Amir Golshani — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 20:45:00 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, Amir Golshani interviews Sarah Doss, a product designer at Disney, who shares her unique approach to life and design. Sarah emphasizes the importance of curiosity, storytelling, and intentional living, discussing how she balances her full-time job with travel and adventure. The conversation explores the impact of AI on product design, the significance of energy management, and the evolving definition of success in today's world. Sarah's insights inspire listeners to embrace curiosity and make intentional choices to create a fulfilling life.

Meditation Finally Works (Do This 5 Minutes a Day) | Forrest Knutson

Amir Golshani — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 20:45:00 GMT

In this enlightening conversation, Amir Golshani and Forrest Knutson delve into the practical aspects of meditation, emphasizing the importance of understanding how meditation works rather than relying on mystical interpretations. Forrest shares his journey into meditation, the challenges many face, and the techniques he teaches, such as HRV resonance and Om Japa, to help individuals achieve a deeper state of calm and clarity. The discussion also touches on the significance of grounding practices, the transformative power of meditation, and the need for balance in life. Forrest offers practical advice for beginners and reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences, including the importance of patience and integration in the meditation journey.

No Money. No Contacts. No Idea. Professor Sean Wise’s 24-Hour Playbook

Amir Golshani — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 21:45:00 GMT

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Sean Wise sits with Amir Golshani and shares his extensive experience in entrepreneurship, discussing the importance of willpower, the science behind successful startups, and the role of mentorship. He emphasizes the need for founders to embrace customer discovery, adapt to change, and focus on building a supportive community. Dr. Wise also reflects on his personal journey, the lessons learned from setbacks, and the evolving definitions of health, wealth, and freedom. His insights provide a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges of building successful ventures.

He Spoke the Truth… and They Tried to Silence Him | Dr. Hessam Nowzari

Amir Golshani — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 21:45:00 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, Dr. Hassam Nowzari sits with Amir Golshani and shares his profound insights on health, culture, and the importance of integrity in science. He reflects on his diverse upbringing, the journey into science, and the significance of gratitude and curiosity in life. Dr. Nowzari emphasizes the need for critical thinking in education and the responsibilities of experts in combating misinformation. He advocates for a holistic view of health, urging that it should not be commercialized, and highlights the interconnectedness of freedom, knowledge, and true wealth.

What We Get Wrong About Trafficking, Power & the Fight for Freedom

Amir Golshani — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 20:45:00 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, Dr. Pardis Mahdavi shares her journey with Amir Golshani, as an anthropologist, storyteller, and university leader. She discusses her experiences growing up between cultures, the importance of amplifying marginalized voices, and the emotional challenges faced in her fieldwork. Dr. Mahdavi reflects on the realities of migration, the narratives surrounding trafficking, and the significance of listening to those in need. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, authenticity, and the impact of her work on education and social justice. Through her stories, she inspires hope and resilience, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery and transformation.

Dr. Ali Khademhosseini: Printing Organs, Rethinking Meat & Betting on AI

Amir Golshani — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 20:45:00 GMT

A scientist who prints human tissues, builds meat without slaughter, and now uses AI to speed up discovery. In this conversation, Dr. Ali Khademhosseini sits with Amir Golshani and shares how he went from Tehran to MIT and Harvard, turned lab work into real treatments, and why the next decade of AI and biology will change food, health, and freedom. He discusses his immigrant experience, the importance of curiosity, and the challenges of risk-taking in academia. Dr. Khademhosseini highlights significant breakthroughs in bioprinting and organ-on-a-chip technology, emphasizing the real-world impact of his work. He reflects on the importance of resilience, leadership, and the drive to innovate for humanity, while also addressing misconceptions about cultivated meat and the future of AI in scientific discovery. His insights provide valuable lessons for future generations about passion, vision, and the relentless pursuit of meaningful work.

The Secret Deal That Stole an Election? Inside Craig Unger’s 30 Year Investigation

Amir Golshani — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 22:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani engages with Craig Unger, a renowned investigative journalist and author, exploring his journey through the evolving landscape of journalism, the importance of truth, and the human lessons learned from decades of reporting on power and influence. Unger shares insights on navigating complex sources, understanding human behavior, and the significance of maintaining independence and curiosity in the face of challenges. The conversation delves into the mechanisms of power, the ethics of journalism, and the necessity of historical awareness, culminating in a call to action for listeners to seek truth and integrity in their own lives.

She Escaped an Abusive Marriage — Then Changed Thousands of Lives : Dr. Roksana Bahramitash

Amir Golshani — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 00:54:49 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, Amir Golshani interviews Dr. Roksana Bahramitash, an Iranian-Canadian sociologist, writer, and filmmaker. They discuss her journey from Iran to Canada, her academic pursuits focused on women's empowerment, and the resilience of women in challenging circumstances. Dr. Bahramitash shares personal stories and insights on freedom, community support, and the importance of redefining success and health. The conversation highlights the unique definitions of freedom and the role of community in fostering resilience and personal growth.

The Hidden Rule Every Champion Follows: Patrice Gheisar, Football coach

Amir Golshani — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 04:59:49 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, Amir Golshani sits down with football coach Patrice Gheisar, who shares his journey from a player to a transformative leader in sports. Gheisar discusses the importance of cultural roots, personal growth, and the shift from chasing personal success to empowering others. He emphasizes the significance of resilience, character, and creating a caring culture within teams. Throughout the conversation, Gheisar reflects on the challenges of coaching, the impact of family, and the lessons learned from both victories and defeats. He advocates for empathy, self-reflection, and the power of mentorship, ultimately defining success as the connections made and the lives positively influenced along the way.

What They DON’T Tell You About Doing What You Love

Amir Golshani — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:56:20 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, Master Minji Jung shares her journey with Amir Golshani, shares insights on finding freedom in her profession and the legacy she hopes to leave behind. As a Taekwondo instructor, discussing the balance between her passion for martial arts and the challenges of running a business. She reflects on her upbringing in a Taekwondo family, the impact of injuries on her career, and the importance of mental health in sports. Minji emphasizes the significance of discipline, joy in work, and the role of leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field.

From Proving Them Wrong to Finding Peace | National Champion

Amir Golshani — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 13:18:28 GMT

In this conversation, Gokhan Bozygit shares his transformative journey with Amir Golshani, from being a competitive swimmer to a coach, emphasizing the importance of redefining success, finding balance in life, and the lessons learned from failure. He discusses the significance of resilience, the impact of cultural transitions, and the power of self-reflection. Gokhan also explores the meaning of freedom, the joy found in simplicity, and the legacy he wishes to leave behind. His insights provide valuable lessons for anyone striving for personal growth and fulfillment.

From War-Torn Iran to the American Dream | Siavash Fashi

Amir Golshani — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 12:19:57 GMT

In this episode of Beyond the Summit, host Amir Golshani interviews Siavash Fashi, founder of Six Packs Gym, who shares his incredible journey from a war-torn childhood in Iran to becoming a successful entrepreneur in America. Siavash discusses the importance of resilience, community, and self-discovery in his life. He emphasizes that health goes beyond fitness, focusing on self-love and confidence. Siavash also highlights the significance of wealth as a tool for impact and the freedom it provides. Throughout the conversation, he shares valuable lessons on overcoming challenges, building a supportive culture, and the importance of dreaming big while taking actionable steps toward success.

Startup Founder: Losing My Job Was the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me

Amir Golshani — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 14:09:58 GMT

In this conversation, Amir Golshani interviews David Sharpe, a startup founder and software developer, about his journey through various career shifts, the importance of health and wealth in achieving freedom, and the lessons learned from personal and professional challenges. David shares insights on maintaining balance in life, the unseen costs of success, and the significance of empathy and personal growth. The discussion emphasizes the importance of setting goals, taking action, and the role of creativity in defining one's identity and legacy.