A Trusted Voice
Mandana is a dynamic media presence known for her compelling storytelling, insightful commentary, and ability to engage audiences across politics, culture, business, activism, and identity.
As a regular contributor on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, she blends personal narrative with sharp analysis to foster meaningful conversations that resonate widely. Mandana co-hosted and produced The Dissenters alongside Debra Messing, featuring trailblazing guests including Hillary Clinton, Jane Fonda, Adam Schiff, and Eva Longoria, inspiring listeners through authentic dialogue. She has also hosted conversations with Jay Shetty, Halle Berry, Lena Waithe, Eric Holder, and she wants you know she hosted a zoom with Barbara Streisand.
In addition to her broadcast work, Mandana is regularly featured in major outlets including Fortune, Forbes, The Hollywood Reporter, and Harper’s Bazaar, and writes impactful op-eds - most recently for Katie Couric Media - continuing to shape public discourse and cultural conversations across platforms.
Mandana shows up in the hardest moments with heart, courage, and conviction, using her own social platforms to educate, build community, find common ground, and inspire action. As a woman, mother, and Iranian immigrant, she brings a lived perspective that blends moral clarity with deep empathy, offering a voice that resonates across political, cultural, and generational lines.
THE DISSENTERS
The Dissenters, produced and hosted by Mandana and Debra Messing, was a 2020 Dear Media podcast series spotlighting people who refused to accept the status quo and instead took bold action to create change. Over its 21-episode run, Mandana and Debra led candid conversations with activists, leaders, and cultural icons, including Hillary Clinton, Jane Fonda, and more, exploring the moments that sparked their courage and the movements they built. The series earned strong listener reviews, maintaining a 4.0+ rating on Apple Podcasts, and cemented Mandana’s reputation as a thoughtful interviewer and connector of purpose-driven voices.
IN THE NEWS
Mandana Dayani: 'I am a Voter' puts youth participation center stage for 2024 election
'Register a Friend' Day seeks to boost civic engagement
'Heartbreaking' to watch people not show up for women assaulted by Hamas, says activist
On Debra Messing’s New Podcast with Mandana Dayani
Meet Archewell President Mandana Dayani | Jessica Yellin | News Not Noise
Take those who chant ‘death to America’ seriously: Activist | On Balance
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS AND PANELS
Remembering The Nova Music Festival Massacre | Uncomfortable Conversations | FULL EPISODE
International Women's Forum x Vital Voices
Coming to America: HIAS Panel
Cornell Jewish Unity Rally
How Women Build Movements: A Conversation with the Founders of “I am a voter.”
Feed the People: Social Media Content As Activism
IN CONVERSATION WITH
In Conversation with Moran Stela Yanai
In Conversation with Dara Horn
In Conversation with Kasra Aarabi