Podcast Summary: "Can I Walk With You?" Episode #2

Title: Can I Walk with You? #2
Host: Thoraya
Release Date: June 2, 2025

Overview:
In the second episode of Can I Walk With You?, host Thoraya continues her journey through the bustling streets of New York City, engaging in heartfelt and spontaneous conversations with passersby. This episode delves deep into themes of loss, resilience, and the ever-evolving nature of life in one of America’s most iconic cities.

Introduction to the Conversation

The episode opens with Alex reaching out to Dariah for a walking conversation, setting the tone for an intimate and genuine exchange. The dialogue begins with a simple request, highlighting the podcast's core premise of connecting through shared walks.

Notable Quote:

Alex (00:00): "Where are you walking to? Can I just walk with you there? I would just walk with you and have a conversation. Is that okay if I walk with you?"

Dariah’s Background and Insights

Dariah introduces herself as an internet personality and shares her journey into online content creation. Her passion for filmmaking and storytelling is evident as she discusses the inception of her YouTube channel seven years ago. This segment provides listeners with an understanding of her dedication and the personal fulfillment she derives from her work.

Notable Quote:

Alex (00:34): "Yeah, I guess so. I'm not usually in them, but my work is online on YouTube and stuff."

Dariah (02:48): "We experience loss every day, right? Did you get to keep the cup of coffee that you drank this morning?"

Exploring the Theme of Loss

A significant portion of the conversation centers around the concept of loss. Alex recounts a poignant encounter with a woman dealing with grief, which left a lasting impression on her approach to understanding relationships and loss. Dariah expands on this by reflecting on the constant changes and losses experienced in New York City.

Key Insights:

• Alex’s Reflection: She shares a metaphor about grief involving a jar, where the hurt remains a fixed part while life continues to expand, allowing for healing and moving forward.

  Notable Quote:

  Alex (02:37): "She said, you know, when you lose someone, think of it like a jar. And the hurt takes up, like, maybe one fourth of the jar. That one fourth of the jar is never gonna get smaller, but your jar gets bigger."

• Dariah’s Perspective: She discusses the daily experiences of loss in New York, from the changing landscapes to personal memories, emphasizing the city's duality of being a place to live and miss simultaneously.

  Notable Quote:

  Dariah (03:32): "New York is the place where you can live in and miss at the same time."

Personal Stories and Emotional Depth

Dariah shares her personal struggles with loss, recounting how a simple fortune cookie provided her with a profound sense of hope during a difficult time. This anecdote underscores the importance of unexpected moments of clarity and support in navigating personal hardships.

Notable Quote:

Dariah (06:07): "I got the fortune cookie that was black. And I said the same thing that I said when you found that notebook. It's like, it just means the future is unwritten. It's yours."

Alex responds empathetically, reflecting on his own pivotal year and the challenges he faced, fostering a mutual understanding and support between them.

Reflections on Change and Continuity

The conversation naturally transitions to how individuals maintain their core values amidst constant change. Dariah talks about holding onto dignity and principles despite the evolving environment of New York City. She highlights the grace and luck that help her stay grounded, even as the city around her transforms.

Notable Quote:

Dariah (05:15): "Dignity, Principles. Dignity. I've somehow hung onto those things."

Closing Thoughts and Mutual Appreciation

As the walk concludes, Dariah offers a heartfelt message to the listeners, emphasizing solidarity and collective resilience. She expresses gratitude for the conversation, reinforcing the podcast’s theme of connecting and understanding through shared experiences.

Notable Quote:

Dariah (08:04): "Good luck. We're all gonna be fine in future time. ... we're all in this together."

Alex reciprocates the appreciation, wrapping up the episode on a note of mutual respect and hope.

Conclusion

Episode #2 of Can I Walk With You? masterfully intertwines personal narratives with universal themes of loss and resilience. Through the authentic dialogue between Alex and Dariah, listeners gain deep insights into navigating life's challenges while cherishing memories and maintaining personal integrity. The episode not only captures the essence of New York City's dynamic yet nostalgic spirit but also underscores the importance of human connection in the face of inevitable changes.

Final Thoughts:
Thoraya’s Can I Walk With You? continues to offer a unique platform for meaningful conversations. By focusing on spontaneous interactions, each episode provides a window into the diverse experiences that shape everyday lives in New York City.