THAT Conversation with Tarek Ali

Tarek Ali

For the past 7 years, Tarek Ali has always prefaced his talks with, “I never come to be right, I come to start the conversation.” And on this podcast, he continues THAT conversation. The thought-provoking conversations w not only inspire self-reflection and challenge societal norms, but also provide you with the tools for self-improvement. Tune in every week to hear Tarek have THAT conversation, either alone or with an insightful guest, as we grow closer to our highest potential—together. We talk mental & physical health, society & culture, financial literacy, business, social injustice, relationships, and so much more. Listen anywhere you get your podcasts & please RATE and REVIEW the podcast so THAT conversation can reach and heal more people.

Subscribe to subscriber edition -->  Leapintohealing.com

read less

Our Editor's Take

THAT Conversation with Tarek Ali is a podcast dedicated to healing. Tarek Ali uses his platform to speak about topics people might find difficult to bring up. The host talks about overcoming abusive relationships, dealing with addiction, and hidden depression. He explores how to find closure after a breakup and how to identify anxiety and ask for help.

There are conversations about anything from colorism to childhood trauma and habit transformation. Podcast host Ali strives to destigmatize topics that usually come with a lot of shame. The host hopes to get more people talking and, by doing so, help them grow in every aspect of their lives. He is open and vulnerable, unafraid to expose his true self to encourage others to do the same.

The host of THAT Conversation has experienced many forms of trauma in his life. Ali grew up poor and was homeless for long periods. Other kids often bullied the host for being Black, obese, and queer. He also was a victim of sexual assault. Ali decided to open up about his struggles on social media to deal with these issues. He started a YouTube channel when he was 15, back when discussing mental health on the platform wasn't that common. But many people found his content relatable. The podcast is another way for Ali to continue promoting honest discussions.

THAT Conversation offers solo episodes, as well as ones with a guest. When it's only Ali, the host usually reveals intimate details from his life to make listeners feel less alone. For instance, in one episode, he talks about a recent diagnosis he received for anxiety. Ali explains his struggle to accept that and start a new medication regime. In another episode, the host reveals his history of hating his Blackness. Other installments find Ali inviting guests like Mary, who is four months sober. She talks about her alcohol dependency. Together, they explore how she can forgive herself.

Ali is empathetic toward his podcast guests and his listeners, offering radical grace. THAT Conversation with Tarek Ali releases episodes on an intermittent basis.

read less
Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness
EducationEducation
Society & CultureSociety & Culture
Mental HealthMental Health
Self-ImprovementSelf-Improvement

Episodes

E16: Whole lotta SEX — Healing Body Trauma, Sexual Agency, & Growing Beyond Judgement
Feb 8 2024
E16: Whole lotta SEX — Healing Body Trauma, Sexual Agency, & Growing Beyond Judgement
Send us a Text Message.The labyrinth of personal healing is often clouded with the shame and secrecy of our deepest struggles. Embark with me, Tarek Ali, as I traverse the raw and intimate pathways of my own self-discovery, laying bare the battles with anxiety and the transformative power of returning to one's roots. This episode is a candid revelation, an invitation to listeners to journey alongside as I unpack the layers of my past that have sculpted the person I am today. From the gentrifying streets of Los Angeles to the private recesses of personal trauma, we tackle the complexities of self-worth, body autonomy, queerness, and the messiness of healing.Through the lens of my own narrative, we examine several things: the intersection of queer identity and navigating sexuality, bringing to light the stereotypes within the LGBTQ+ community and the struggles for self-acceptance in the face of social pressures; reclaiming your body when past experiences stole it from you; and rekindling the relationship you have with you body after a lifetime of self-abuse. I share poignant moments from my own childhood and the journey towards reclaiming my body's narrative. It's a story of growth, self-love, and the courage to confront the demons of one's past. As we navigate the intricate dance of self-discovery, we laugh, we learn, and perhaps most importantly, we find solace in the shared experiences of our struggles. This heartfelt episode culminates in a celebration of vulnerability and the solace found in expressing one's truth. It's a reminder that healing is an ongoing process, one that requires grace, self-compassion, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. I leave you with thoughts steeped in hope and encouragement, urging you to embrace your journey with kindness and reflection, and to continue the conversation on self-compassion as we part ways. Thank you for lending your ears and hearts; may this dialogue resonate with you as much as it has with me, Tarek Ali.subscribe for more shows and episodes: Leapintohealing.com Support the Show.
E09: Hidden Depression — The Signs We Ignore, Acting Out of Character, & Craving Validation
Nov 1 2022
E09: Hidden Depression — The Signs We Ignore, Acting Out of Character, & Craving Validation
Send us a Text Message.Depression and anxiety are much more than just feelings of sadness. They are changes in behavior that make you act out of character and turn to others for the validation you should be giving to yourself. In this episode, Tarek reveals the therapist-approved method he uses to nurture himself back to health when he was close to burnout. Including tools and methods he came up with to use when feeling triggered by unmet childhood needs. Because we are human. We get depressed. But it is the process of climbing out and loving ourselves that helps us suffer less and grow more.Please like, rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast.Tarek Reveals:After Fashion Week, Tarek realized he was getting close to burnout.Meditating with the Daily Calm app and journaling relieved some of Tarek’s anxiety but he realized he was going through depression.Tarek acted out of character so he knew he needed to better understand his behavior.Dating apps feel like a necessary evil to Tarek but they also provide him with validation.In NY, people didn’t see Tarek for who he wanted to be seen as.12-year-old Tarek is still crying about his unmet childhood needs.  Tarek’s family felt love through eating soul food together. When he wants to feel comfort, he eats.Self-care is a way Tarek validates himself but not caring for himself is an outward expression of his internal depression.Identifying your needs helps you embrace better methods.Tarek shares the method he uses to remind himself of when he wants to validate himself.Care enough about yourself to put in the work. It is worth it!Join the community!:THAT Convo Pod@thatconvopod on InstagramConnect with Tarek:@itstarekali on Instagram@itstarekali on TwitterTarek Ali on YouTube@itstarekali on TikTok Support the Show.
E08: Waiting to be Happy — Self-Doubt, Appreciating the Small Wins, Living in Your Dreams, & Burnout
Oct 4 2022
E08: Waiting to be Happy — Self-Doubt, Appreciating the Small Wins, Living in Your Dreams, & Burnout
Send us a Text Message.Imagine being dressed by your favorite world-renowned designers at NY’s Fashion Week and getting praise for your hard work, then an overwhelming sense of dissatisfaction and depression washes over you. But you don’t know… why. In this episode, Tarek first catches us up on his busy last couple of weeks, then shares his personal journal entries that helped him get to the bottom of his emotions, and how he showed up for himself once he identified them. And to end, Tarek reminds us of the power and importance of rest, to not only heal but to get the job done! This episode just keeps on giving so settle in to be transformed.Please like, rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast.Tarek Reveals:Taylor acknowledges Tarek’s healing help.Dreams don’t have to be big to be important.Just because you haven’t made money with your creativity yet doesn’t make you less of an artist.Tarek is signed to Gotham Group!!Millions of people watched the Tarek and Taylor podcast on socials.Body dysmorphia makes videos and full-body shots uncomfortable for Tarek.The story behind being dressed by Diesel and Peter Do at NYFW.Time off to heal is important!How the influx in creators + Tiktok has changed the Revenue in influencing marketingTarek doesn’t do anything God doesn’t tell him to do.Fashion week in NY brought excitement but also emotional ups and downs.Tarek’s superpower is his writing. He has started writing three TV shows and a film.How you get to burnout.Appreciate the small wins.Don’t feel guilty for resting. Rest is a privilege you’ve earned.Join the community!:THAT Convo Pod@thatconvopod on InstagramConnect with Tarek:@itstarekali on Instagram@itstarekali on TwitterTarek Ali on YouTube@itstarekali on TikTok Support the Show.
E07: THAT…Toxic Relationship — Finding Your Light Again & Eliminating Self-judgment
Aug 28 2022
E07: THAT…Toxic Relationship — Finding Your Light Again & Eliminating Self-judgment
Send us a Text Message.Whether we like it or not, childhood wounding leaks into our adult relationships. And, without therapy or healing work we are at the mercy of the trauma we grew up with because we are always searching for love. In this episode, Tarek is joined by Taylor, an indispensable friend from college, who is still grieving a breakup. During their conversation, Tarek and Taylor discuss how to find purpose, the importance of self-care, eliminating judgment, and THAT it is perfectly okay to be sad. Even if you have done the work or are in a loving relationship, you will identify with this heart-to-heart conversation.Please like, rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast.Tarek Reveals:Taylor was a vital part of Tarek’s college experience.Childhood traumas can make us go back to toxic relationships.Taylor jumped into a new relationship before she was completely healed from her last breakup.Tarek admits he was a clown during Fright Fest.Talent plus passion equals your purpose.Our boundaries are strongest when we are in a secure place.Finding the right therapist is like dating.Self-care is taking the action to give yourself what you need.Sadness creates a vacuum where we will do anything just to feel something.Taylor does the “I feel” exercise which opens up her childhood wounds.Tarek shares his lessons on healing.There is absolutely nothing wrong with being sad.Learning to say I love you from a distance.Tarek recommends the healing words of Sarah Jake Roberts.Taylor yearns for a place to worship, either online or in person.No one can take away our light.National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 Join the community!:THAT Convo Pod@thatconvopod on InstagramConnect with Tarek:@itstarekali on Instagram@itstarekali on TwitterTarek Ali on YouTube@itstarekali on TikTokVideos of Tarek & Taylorhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgW7Iwieans&t=554shttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LN8vKuq8PH0&t=143s Support the Show.
E05: The Big YES: I got SIGNED!! — From Unliked to Redemption, Your Success is Near!
Jul 18 2022
E05: The Big YES: I got SIGNED!! — From Unliked to Redemption, Your Success is Near!
Send us a Text Message.The YES after a thousand NOs!  In this episode, Tarek is still processing the news that he got his big YES! He is now a SIGNED SCREENWRITER to a very reputable management group and is swaggering in the endless possibilities of what this means for his writing and filmmaking career. It is proof that when you continue to believe, you can change your circumstance, and ultimately change the world.Please like, rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast.Tarek Reveals:This podcast is an authentic expression of who Tarek is.Christian found that Tarek’s YouTube videos touched his soul.Everyone deserves to have THAT conversation.Tarek got his YES! He is a signed Screenwriter!Being connected in the business is a big deal.A book, a feature film, and a television series are all in the works.Christian was with Tarek throughout the process of writing the pilot.Tarek’s pilot will show others how to have an emotional impact on viewers without triggering them.Determined to follow his dreams, Tarek pushed through the fear and emotional strife.Art should be directed toward healing people.Does Tarek’s rep already know who is already interested in buying his work?A writer’s voice is what hooks studios for future projects.Unliked is written by a YouTube influencer, while Redeem is a 1-2 punch of Tarek.Join the community!:THAT Convo Pod@thatconvopod on InstagramConnect with Tarek:@itstarekali on Instagram@itstarekali on TwitterTarek Ali on YouTube@itstarekali on TikTokWhy You Feel Like a Failure in Your 20s Support the Show.
E04: The End of Trauma & Suffering: Learning how to Feel, Heal, & Grieve
Jul 1 2022
E04: The End of Trauma & Suffering: Learning how to Feel, Heal, & Grieve
Send us a Text Message.When we experience emotional pain, it can feel as if we are the cause. We beat ourselves up and blame ourselves for things that may not have anything to do with us. In this episode, Tarek opens up about his journey through the healing process to overcome the systematic grief that has been a raw undercurrent in his life. He has decided to show up for himself every minute of every day. He shares the ups and downs of the grieving process and his renewed sense of self.Please like, rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast.Tarek Reveals:Even though putting pressure on himself was the catalyst for Tarek’s success, he understands being hard on himself is not sustainable.Your value is not based on what others think.When his relationship ended, Tarek grieved the loss of everyone who ever left him in his life.The feeling of always waiting for mommy and daddy to come home was exacerbated during the breakup.Healing is a process that takes as long as it takes.Sometimes people are just assholes. It has nothing to do with you.Freedom doesn’t always come easily, but it is worth it!Letting go of some people is necessary when you are growing in a different direction.Every new day is a chance to heal.It is important to spend quality time with yourself.Join the community!:THAT Convo Pod@thatconvopod on InstagramConnect with Tarek:@itstarekali on Instagram@itstarekali on TwitterTarek Ali on YouTube@itstarekali on TikTok Support the Show.
E03: Empowered by No: Take Me to the Pilot
May 30 2022
E03: Empowered by No: Take Me to the Pilot
Send us a Text Message.In today’s episode, Tarek shares the different times in his life he has put himself out there during his journey of success. Whether he was applying to Stanford, writing essay after essay for grants to fund his college dreams, or getting his pilot script in front of the ultra-influential and exclusive CAA, Tarek embraces the timeline God has set out for him. When you trust your inner knowing about who you are and what you are capable of, no one can stop you!Please like, rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast.Tarek Reveals:Tarek recently finished writing his first original pilot themed around the secret lives of influencers and how their actions are driven by trauma.Be intentional with your time. It is yours. It doesn’t master you.What you need will come when you need it.Smile in the face of rejection.Having someone believe in you empowers you.Confidence is one thing, trusting in your future is a whole other level of loving yourself.Everything is not for everyone.Applying at Stanford with no cash was a shot in the dark but Tarek knew he was destined for great things.The point where Tarek almost gave up on going to college.If you don’t put yourself out there you will never get what you want from life.Noes are stepping stones to Yeses.No one else can put an end to your dreams.Join the community!THAT Convo Pod@thatconvopod on InstagramConnect with Tarek:@itstarekali on Instagram@itstarekali on TwitterTarek Ali on YouTube@itstarekali on TikTok Support the Show.
E01: A Journey Back to Self: The Podcast Adventure Begins
May 1 2022
E01: A Journey Back to Self: The Podcast Adventure Begins
Send us a Text Message.Tarek has created a place for us to come together and have conversations that matter. In today’s inspirational stream of consciousness episode, Tarek freely shares THAT very personal conversation about the trauma he experienced during his formative years, how he came to own his story, his journey to find himself and understand his value, and more. This is a mask aside, gloves off venture into a vulnerable human spirit.Please like, rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast. Tarek Reveals:The fear of creating this podcast caused anxiety deeply rooted in the trauma-based belief that he needed to be perfect to be accepted.He just wanted to be himself in a world where everyone has preconceived ideas about who he should be.He was a Barbie girl who didn’t want to play sports.What it feels like to truly own your story.How he made himself invisible to keep a roof over his head.The guilt and gaslighting that shaped his teenage years.He reminds himself not to apologize for his story.In the past he felt his value came from what he could be for other people.His fear of loss.His Gods, Guides, and Ancestors (GGA).Working with ADHD.Why a podcast? Because he changes in front of a camera and he doesn’t need to be anyone but himself.Join the community!:THAT Convo Pod@thatconvopod on InstagramConnect with Tarek:@itstarekali on Instagram@itstarekali on TwitterTarek Ali on Youtube @itstarekali on TikTok    Support the Show.