Identified with Nabil Ayers

In the premiere of Identified Season Two, Nabil Ayers speaks with musician and activist Tom Morello about his extraordinary upbringing and journey toward understanding his identity. Tom shares stories about his trailblazing mother—an adventurous white teacher from a small Illinois town who raised him alone as a Black child in a segregated suburb—and the complex legacy of his absent Kenyan father. Their conversation traverses generational resilience, the racism Tom faced growing up in Libertyville, Illinois, and the emotional reckoning of meeting his father for the first time at age 30. Tom discusses finding belonging in unexpected places: among childhood friends, through music, and ultimately, with the Kenyan family he never knew he had. He also opens up about being a sperm donor in the '90s—and the surprising family connections that have surfaced in recent years. This episode explores what it means to define family on your own terms, and how connection can transcend distance, time, and silence. Host: Nabil Ayers Guests: Tom Morello Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji Production Company and Network: Palm Tree Island Music: Nouela and Patricia Brennan Palm Tree Island Team: Sophia Moore & Asli PehlivanliSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

That's a wrap on Season One of Identified. In this final recap episode, Nabil Ayers revisits memorable conversations with guests. Highlights include Ione Skye's poignant connection with her musician father, Geoff Rickly's stories of family legacy and rebellion, Dawn Richard's reflections on the impact of New Orleans and Hurricane Katrina on her identity, and Foo Fighters bassist Nate Mendel's evolving relationship with the late Taylor Hawkins.  Identified will be back in early 2025 for Season Two.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the season finale of Identified Season One, Nabil Ayers interviews activist Nelini Stamp. In their conversation, Nelini reflects on her upbringing with a large but disconnected network of half-siblings from her father's side in Belize, contrasted with a close-knit Puerto Rican family on her mother's side. The conversation delves into cultural and political histories of Belize and Puerto Rico, addressing themes of race, class, and identity. Nelini discusses her complicated family dynamics, the community that supported her and her mother, and her personal experiences with grief and identity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Identified, host Nabil Ayers talks with musician and record label founder Mac McCaughan. They discuss the various ways McCaughan defines family, from his upbringing in South Florida to his influential music career with Superchunk and Merge Records. Mac shares personal stories about performing music with his father and son, the impact of moving to North Carolina, and the evolution of his band and record label. The conversation delves into McCaughan's musical journey, family traditions, and the challenges and joys of maintaining personal and professional relationships. Host: Nabil Ayers Guest: Mac McCaughan Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji Production Company: Palm Tree Island Music: Nouela and Patricia BrennanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Identified, Nabil Ayers sits down with graphic novelist, tattoo artist, and filmmaker, James Spooner. They delve into the nuances of family dynamics, the complexities of growing up in non-traditional households, and the unexpected bonds formed with both family and friends. Spooner shares stories about his diverse family background, his journey discovering over 20 siblings, and the continuous challenge of building a meaningful relationship with his own children. Through candid conversations, they unpack the importance of trust, community, and the inevitable cycles of family life. Host: Nabil Ayers Guest: James Spooner Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji Production Company: Palm Tree Island Music: Nouela and Patricia BrennanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Identified, host Nabil Ayers interviews Ukrainian chef and food writer, Olia Hercules. Olia reflects on her efforts to document family history and the challenges faced due to lost records from the Soviet era. She shares poignant family stories of displacement, survival, and the strong sense of community that characterized her upbringing. The conversation touches on the importance of food and cooking, highlighting traditional recipes and the skills passed down through generations. Olia also discusses coping with current hardships in Ukraine by drawing strength from her ancestors' resilience.  Host: Nabil Ayers Guest: Olia Hercules Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji Production Company: Palm Tree Island Music: Nouela and Patricia BrennanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Identified, host Nabil Ayers interviews Ahmed Gallab, the musician behind Sinkane. Ahmed shares his multicultural upbringing, spanning London, Sudan, Boston, and Provo, Utah, and how these experiences shaped his understanding of family. He recounts his first encounter with music through his grandfather's religious chanting and his journey into hardcore music in Ohio. Ahmed discusses the significance of community in his life, the challenges of fitting in, and the cultural traditions that continue to influence him. Tune in to explore the intricate connections between music, identity, and family. Host: Nabil Ayers Guest: Sinkane Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji Production Company: Palm Tree Island Music: Nouela and Patricia BrennanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Identified, host Nabil Ayers sits down with Fabi Reyna, founder of She Shreds Media and musician behind Reyna Tropical. They discuss Fabi's upbringing in Mexico, her complex relationship with her father, and her journey to amplify the voices of women and non-gender conforming people through her art. From childhood memories to her love for touring, Fabi shares how movement and music shape her identity. Tune in as they delve into themes of family, tradition, and chosen kinship. Host: Nabil Ayers Guest: Fabi Reyna (Reyna Tropical) Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji Production Company: Palm Tree Island Music: Nouela and Patricia BrennanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Identified, host Nabil Ayers explores the deep familial connections and musical journey of the brothers Alejandro and Estevan Gutiérrez, known collectively as Hermanos Gutiérrez. The Gutiérrez brothers share insights into their childhood, the influence of their cultural heritage, and the profound impact of their sibling bond on their lives and music career. The episode delves into their creative process, their unique relationship, and their reflections on family and identity. Host: Nabil Ayers Guest: Hermanos Gutiérrez Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji Production Company: Palm Tree Island Music: Nouela and Patricia BrennanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Identified, host Nabil Ayers interviews the accomplished musician and broadcaster Nabihah Iqbal. Nabihah reflects on her family history, untold stories from World War I and the Partition of India, and her own experiences growing up in a large immigrant family in London. She discusses the impact of the pandemic on her family connections and highlights the challenges faced by non-white individuals in various professional fields, including the music industry. This conversation sheds light on the profound influence of family and history on personal and cultural identity. Host: Nabil Ayers Guest: Nabihah Iqbal Executive Producer: Kieron Banerji Production Company: Palm Tree Island Music: Nouela and Patricia BrennanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.