Ray Hanania is an award-winning journalist, comedian, columnist, radio host, and media strategist whose career spans five decades of storytelling, public engagement, and bridge-building across cultures. A former Chicago political reporter, Ray has covered everything from City Hall to community struggles, bringing depth, clarity, and humanity to every story.

As a Palestinian-American stand-up comedian and co-founder of the Israeli-Palestinian Comedy Tour, Ray uses humor to break barriers and foster understanding. He is also the founder of Urban Strategies Group, providing media and public relations consulting to political, governmental, and private clients.

Ray writes weekly opinion columns for Arab News and other outlets, focusing on Arab American issues, media bias, politics, and global affairs. He has hosted radio shows nationwide and authored multiple books shedding light on culture, politics, and identity.

On The Lightning Strike, Ray proudly sponsors the “What’s On Your Mind” segment—giving voice to everyday Americans and sparking honest, insightful conversations about the issues that matter most.