In this thought-provoking episode of Reset Critical, host Niaz Kasravi is joined by Dr. Melina Abdullah, professor and co-founder of Black Lives Matter Los Angeles and Black Lives Matter Grassroots, and Ise Lyfe, a social enterprise executive, professor, artist, and activist. The discussion delves deep into the state of racial justice advocacy, the impact of recent socio-political developments, and the ongoing challenges posed by systemic racism and white supremacy. As they reflect on the backlash following significant strides in racial justice, they explore the intersection of capitalism, policing, and community safety. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, the conversation emphasizes the importance of community, the role of education, and the necessity of a continued fight for a more equitable society. Join us for a compelling discussion that aims to reset critical conversations around race, justice, and societal change.

Join Niaz Kasravi on Reset Critical as she explores the complexities of artificial intelligence (AI) with Nadia Davari, an accomplished attorney specializing in the intersection of entertainment, media, and technology. They discuss the benefits and risks of AI, from its role in daily tasks to its potential to replace jobs and pose ethical challenges. The conversation covers legal concerns such as copyright issues, the use of personal data, and individuals' responsibility to stay informed and engaged. The episode also highlights the importance of human skills, bipartisan legislation, and the need for hope and active participation to shape AI's future. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the realities and implications of living in an AI-driven world.

In this episode of Reset Critical, host Niaz Kasravi is joined by Patrice Sulton, a criminal defense and civil rights lawyer, to discuss urgent issues in criminal justice and racial equity. With extensive experience in criminal justice advocacy and research, Niaz leads an in-depth exploration of reforms, setbacks, and the future of these critical areas. Patrice, founder of DC Justice Lab and the new Executive Director of the Center on Race, Inequality, and the Law at NYU School of Law, shares her experiences and insights on creating meaningful change in the criminal justice system. Tune in as they explore the impact of legislative actions, shifts in narrative, and community engagement in fostering a more equitable society. Don't miss this engaging conversation that aims to reshape public discussion on criminal justice and racial justice advocacy.

Immigration judge and former DHS chief counsel Ashley Tabaddor joins Reset Critical

for a candid, deeply informed look at immigration in America—what’s actually legal,

what’s political theater, and what’s being done in our name. She explains how asylum

truly functions, why “undocumented” is not a crime at the border, and how COVID-era

policies like Title 42 skewed the numbers we think we understand. Drawing on

history—from the Chinese Exclusion era to today—she shows how language, law, and

executive power can dehumanize entire communities and create a “frictionless

deportation machine.” We explore myths about crime, the economic realities of labor

markets, and the costs of confusing civil immigration enforcement with criminal policing.

Ashley also clarifies the Supreme Court’s shadow-docket posture and explains why

litigation can act as a barrier, but civil society must push for change. Beyond policy, we

discuss human connection, bias, and the importance of rebuilding civic literacy—checks

and balances, federalism, and due process—in everyday conversations. It’s a tough but

hopeful discussion about defending dignity and strengthening democracy, one informed

listener at a time.

In the premiere of Reset Critical, we sit down with artist and activist Azam Ali to explore

issues of courage, conscience, and the cost of silence. Azam shares how a lifetime of

global advocacy informs her insistence on upholding principles rather than performative

“bridge-building” when fundamental rights are at stake. We delve into free speech,

dissent, and the uneasy double standards that emerge when censorship targets our

“opponents”. Azam reflects on art as a vehicle for truth, explaining how music can unify

people across ethnic and religious divides and galvanize real action. She opens up

about the experiences that shaped her voice and why she refuses to delegate her moral

compass to any party or algorithm. Together, we examine social media’s pull toward

extremes, the absence of credible leadership, and what it means to meet in the middle

without sacrificing core values. The conversation is frank, empathetic, and rooted in

shared humanity. We close with practical encouragement to have braver, more

meaningful conversations wherever we live and work.