The Daily Show host Jon Stewart is known for being one of the best satirist on television, but in his directorial debut Rosewater, the comedic icon proved his hidden passion for activism. The film, which centers on real-life Iranian journalist Maziar Bahari puts a true spotlight on international problems and highlights and celebrates the efforts some have put forth to solve them.

In his recent interview for Voice of America’s satirical show OnTen, Stewart explained his unique form of activism.

“People always say, ‘Well, are you an activist?’ and I say, ‘No, I’m not really an activist,’ but if there’s some measure of activism in me, it’s the quiet activism of living pleasantly.”

When Saman Arbabi, the writer and producer who created Voice of America’s Parazit – which many consider to be “The Daily Show of Iran” – told Stewart that he’s “seen a lot of dickheads in this field”, Stewart replied that his form of activism aims to fight that stigma.

“When you go to a restaurant, the person who’s waiting tables, like, don’t be a dick to them,” said Stewart. “That mentality, I feel like, I try to infuse in my life and my work, if I can. I’ve worked a lot of shit jobs, and I’ve struggled a lot. I think you never lose, that person is always with you, to let you know that you’re not so great. I’ve been fired enough to know that that person is still in me, and that I have to work harder and get better.”

The OnTen interview will air on Friday. Rosewater opens in several cities on November 7, and premieres next at the Toronto International Film Festival.