‘Post Reports’ podcast: How to launch a second act in life, with comedian Zarna Garg

“Post Reports” is the daily podcast from The Washington Post. Unparalleled reporting. Expert insight. Clear analysis. Everything you’ve come to expect from the newsroom of The Post – for your ears.

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In this episode:https://www.washingtonpost.com/washington-post-live/2025/11/25/second-act-zarna-zoya-garg/

Comedian, author, actor Zarna Garg posing for a photo with her book, This American Woman. PHOTO: Facebook @Zarna Garg

From starting a tomato sauce company to launching matchmaking services, Zarna Garg’s entrepreneurial spirit has always been on display. But when daughter Zoya Garg dragged her to an open-mic event and introduced her mother to the world of stand-up comedy, the older Garg seemed skeptical.

Fast-forward six years later. Now, Zarna Garg has streaming comedy specials, a best-selling book and millions of followers on social media.

Host Elahe Izadi spoke with Zarna and Zoya at The Washington Post’s Global Women’s Summit. Before a live audience, the three explore Zarna’s journey to finding comedy, the changing face of the industry on social media, and how it’s never too late to launch a second act in life.