The Road with Ali Sultan is a personal and unfiltered look into the life of comedian Ali Sultan as he hits the road chasing laughs—and something deeper. From comedy clubs to quiet moments in between, Ali shares the highs, lows, and honest reflections of a first-generation comedian carving out his path. It’s not just about stand-up—it’s also about Ali’s own journey: navigating identity, purpose, and growth. Along the way, he connects with interesting people from all walks of life, bringing humor, heart, and curiosity to every conversation.

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I reflect about doing comedy in Norway and all the eventful stuff that happened.

Ep. 16 I stopped a stabbing in Norway

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This week, I recap my trip to Toronto. I talk about meeting cool Yemenis, nightmare college gigs, and fear of flying.

Ep. 15 Toronto

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On this episode I reflect on my one year of living in NYC. I talk about the challenges and difficulties as well as some wins. I also chat with comedian Ahmed Khalaf about how funny our culture is with body shaming.

Ep. 14 One Year in NYC

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I share the story of how my neighbors and I took in a friendly stray cat, then sit down with my hilarious friend Ahmed Khalaf to trade war stories about our worst stand-up bombs — including the unforgettable night we got booed together at the University of Minnesota.

Ep. 13 Comedy Bombs

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I talk about dealing with the worst heckler I’ve ever had—someone who decided to yell out something transphobic in literally the last two minutes of my set. I got to experience something totally unexpected: the Black Circus. It was joyful, wild, and unforgettable—including a performer who somehow turned her head 360 degrees. Yes, really.I also share some thoughts on immigration, how long drives keep my creativity alive, what I love most about stand-up, and the layered reality of building a fanbase. Plus, why I love the DC comedy scene.

Ep. 12 Worst heckler of the Year

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In this episode, we go behind the scenes of SubwayTakes. I share a funny ADHD moment and reflect on why holding onto a dream is essential. We talk about the struggle of taking social media breaks in a world that demands constant updates, and the lingering feeling of never quite feeling accomplished.

Ep.11 Dreams and Subway Takes

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In this episode, I reflect on my terrible haircut and the importance of friendships and why isolating yourself can be harmful, even when it feels easier. I share a wild encounter where I was challenged to a fight by a man in the middle of shooting up heroin. I also talk about feeling reenergized and inspired by fellow comedians, and how a recent trip home brought me a deep sense of joy.

Ep. 10 Inspiring Week

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In this episode, I share a funny story about getting hit by a kid with no car insurance, and the bittersweet attempt to save a little sparrow that didn’t make it. I talk about rethinking my relationship with eating meat and thoughts on friends Nicole and John. I dive into how social media chips away at real happiness, why San Diego might be America’s most underrated city, living within my means, and how a great staff makes a comedy club truly shine.

Ep 9. San Diego and The Sparrow

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In this episode, I share memories of bonding with my uncle over childhood soccer games and reflect on the challenge of not resenting people who voted for the current administration. I open up about my growing frustration with greedy billionaires, my struggles with an addictive personality—especially online gambling—and how listening to Buena Vista Social Club reawakened a sense of wonder from my youth. I also talk candidly about living with hypochondria, briefly thinking I needed surgery, and wrap up with an update on my dad’s grave.

Ep. 8 Hypochondria & Gambling

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I open up about my journey with EMDR therapy and how it&#39;s helped me process deep feelings around my father—especially guilt and sadness. It’s been a powerful tool in my healing. I also share a joyful update about my recent performance in Cincinnati at the beautiful Commonwealth Sanctuary—such a warm, special experience.

Ep. 7 Daddy Issues and Cincinnati

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In this episode, I open up about my journey with panic attacks—what they feel like, when they started, and how I’ve learned to navigate them over time. It’s raw, real, and hopefully relatable if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by anxiety.  I also share some funny stories.

Ep. 6 My Journey with Panic Attacks

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In this episode, I share my recent trip to Eau Claire, where I had a fascinating and intense conversation with a man who had served time for his past actions involving torture. How I hate living gluten-free and love staying sober. While in town, I met some incredible people who made the experience memorable. I chat with Abenezeer, sharing laughs and insights. Tune in for a mix of serious stories and lighthearted moments!

Ep. 5 Eau Claire Chronicles

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This week’s episode is a wild ride! I ran into a guy who confidently thought &#34;hummus&#34; was pronounced Hamas (yes, really), got pulled over by an undercover cop for absolutely no reason, and somehow still managed to catch up with old friends and feel the love from my amazing Minneapolis fans. Chaos, comedy, and community—just how we like it. Tune in for laughs, stories, and a little hummus confusion. 🧆🚔❤️🎙️

Ep. 4 Minneapolis Love

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In this episode, I recap my trip to Milwaukee where I headlined some incredible comedy shows and met some unforgettable people along the way. I also share a not-so-great experience at Starbucks that left me shaking my head, but it was balanced out by a hilarious encounter with the funniest homeless guy I’ve ever met. On a deeper note, I open up about a tough, depressive week and talk about the power of thought and how I’m learning to push through the mental fog. This one’s a mix of laughs, real talk, and a phone call with my friend Abenezeer.

Ep. 3 Milwaukee Madness

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In this deeply personal episode, I share the story of running away from home at just 8 years old and navigating the wild streets of Sanaa on my own. It&#39;s a raw reflection on fear, resilience, and the search for freedom. I also call my mother to hear her side of the story—how she felt during those difficult hours and what she remembers most.

Ep. 2 Running away from home at 8

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In this episode, I open up about how I got into stand-up comedy and the personal journey that led me to discover my true calling.

Ep. 1 – How I Got Into Stand-Up Comedy

The Road with Ali Sultan is a personal and unfiltered look into the life of comedian Ali Sultan as he hits the road chasing laughs—and something deeper. From comedy clubs to quiet moments in between, Ali shares the highs, lows, and honest reflections of a first-generation comedian carving out his path. It’s not just about stand-up—it’s also about Ali’s own journey: navigating identity, purpose, and growth. Along the way, he connects with interesting people from all walks of life, bringing humor, heart, and curiosity to every conversation.