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Comedian, writer & podcast host

Zahra Noorbakhsh

Broaden your understanding of the American Muslim female experience with Zahra Noorbakhsh, an Iranian-American Comedian, Writer, Actor, and co-host of the #GoodMuslimBadMuslim podcast.

Trusted by Pop Culture Collaborative, Golden Thread Theatre, CNN

Zahra Noorbakhsh, Comedian | Podcast Host & Writer
Zahra Noorbakhsh

Zahra Noorbakhsh

Los Angeles, United States

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Zahra Noorbakhsh's biography

At a glance

  • Iranian-American comedian and writer
  • Co-host of #GoodMuslimBadMuslim podcast
  • Creator of All Atheists Are Muslim show
Zahra Noorbakhsh is a feminist Muslim, Iranian-American comedian and co-host of the award-winning podcast, #GoodMuslimBadMuslim. The podcast was listed as a “must listen” by Oprah Magazine, and Zahra was invited to the Obama White House to record an episode. She is a Senior Fellow on comedy for social change with the Pop Culture Collaborative. In addition to her two sold-out performances of her stand-up comedy special “On Behalf of All Muslims” at the Golden Thread Theatre in San Francisco, her solo performance of “All Atheists are Muslim: A Romantic Comedy” was originally directed by CNN’s W. Kamau Bell. Reza Aslan says, "always insightful, always subversive... Zahra's comedic romps disrupt an outdated narrative." Her writing is featured in the New York Times and on NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross.

Zahra's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Creating Comedy For Social Impact
After numerous national stand-up tours, Zahra understands the balance in the relationship between audiences and performers. She will show you how comedy allows your colleagues and customers to explore new cultures with greater empathy. With insights that apply to both online and in person challenges, your audience will emerge from this session with powerful new tools.
Curating A Quality Zoom Experience
Let’s face it – while most of us hate public speaking, we hate live conference calls even more. With this fun and practical guide to best practices, you’ll learn life hacks for better communication and greater representation of ideas.
On Behalf Of All Muslims
In this in-person, 50-minute performance, Zahra Noorbakhsh flies in from Planet Islam, home of the Muslim world, all 1.8 billion of them, to speak on behalf of her people. In her signature inquisitive and unapologetic style, Zahra dives into her colonized mind and her evolving sexuality. She explores her relationships with her superior immigrant parents, her mediocre white husband, and her unhealthy obsessions with TED talks. This Feminist Muslim Queer Iranian American comedian explores intersectionality with honesty and laughter.

Why we recommend booking Zahra

Zahra Noorbakhsh brings her insights from comedy to allow your colleagues and customers to explore new cultures with greater empathy. With insights that apply to online and in person challenges, Zahra provides powerful new tools to help.

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Trusted by Pop Culture Collaborative, Golden Thread Theatre, CNN

Featured Projects

Zahra Noorbakhsh - The #GoodMuslimBadMuslim Monthly podcast cover

frequently asked questions

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I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

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Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

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You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.