Podcasts about Armenia

Groong Week in Review - December 21, 2025Topics:Ukraine War and EU RiftSiege on Etchmiadzin and the ChurchPeace Dividend or Political TheaterTRIPP and Competing Power ClaimsGuest: Dziunik AghajanianHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 498 | Recorded: December 23, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/498VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Ui21tqO_d2U#ArmenianChurch #Etchmiadzin #TRIPP #ArmeniaPolitics #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In Ukraine, the Christmas season is being observed even amid war. We hear one story from a Christian ministry leader and Kyiv resident. Also, the Trump Administration has recalled nearly 30 ambassadors and senior embassy officials, serving mostly in African and Asian countries, from their posts. And, a $500 million AI factory is set to open in Armenia. Plus, members of Parliament grant full clearance for Santa Claus to use Ireland's airspace to deliver toys to the country's children. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

In this insightful and high-level episode of Most Memorable Journeys, Elisabeth speaks with Natalia Kardash, one of Cyprus' most influential connectors in business, media, and international relations.For over 26 years, Natalia has called Cyprus home, building an extraordinary personal business network of more than 6,000 people, enabling her to bridge international executives with Cypriot opportunities. Her career is a masterclass in publishing, communications, PR, and strategic networking, always focused on turning ideas into successful ventures.Natalia is the Founder of the SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS Leaders' Club, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of VESTNIK KIPRA Expert Platform and SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS Magazine, a Member of the Corporate Advisory Board at the University of Cyprus, an Honorary Fellow of CIM Cyprus Business School, and the visionary force behind flagship events such as BEST LEGAL Conference, BEST INVEST Congress, and the Health & Beauty Forum.In this conversation, we explore:How Natalia connects global business leaders with CyprusThe power of trusted networks and relationship capitalWorking with expat communities and fostering cross-sector collaborationHer special regional focus on Armenia, Kazakhstan, and UzbekistanWhy genuine connection is the foundation of sustainable business growthRemarkably, Natalia has been personally connected to every President of the Republic of Cyprus, underscoring her deep-rooted influence and credibility.This episode is about leadership, vision, and the rare ability to connect the right people at the right time, creating value far beyond borders.

New economic cooperation plans take shape between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Trump Administration proposes an international roadway through southern Armenia linking Azerbaijan to its Western Exclave, bordering Turkey.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningPsalm 46:1 — Global Nations Prayer: Peace, Protection and God's Help for Crisis Nations From London to Kigali, from Seoul to Mexico City, from Rome to Cape Town — a global 6 P.M. prayer within the DailyPrayer.uk 24-Hour Devotional Cycle. Scripture (NIV): Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Isaiah 60:2 — “Darkness covers the earth… but the Lord rises upon you.” Across the world, searches rise for “prayer for nations,” “global peace,” “war and crisis updates,” “how to pray for countries in turmoil.” December always intensifies global anxiety. Prayer: Father, in the name of Jesus, we pray over the nations facing deep instability today. We lift Ukraine, still carrying war-weariness and displacement. We lift Haiti, battling violence, hunger and fragile governance. We lift South Sudan, enduring flooding, conflict and humanitarian strain. We lift Armenia, carrying grief, transition and regional tension. Lord, move with power where governments are shaking, where families are uprooted, where fear is rising and hope feels thin. Bring protection to civilians, wisdom to leaders, stability to regions and comfort to communities facing trauma. Let peace interrupt violence; let Your presence interrupt despair. Shine Your light over every nation in darkness. In Jesus' name. Amen. Prayer Points: prayer for nations, prayer for protection, prayer for peace, prayer for stability, prayer for leaders, prayer for civilians, prayer for relief, prayer for wisdom, prayer for mercy, prayer for global hope Life Application: Choose one nation today and speak Psalm 46:1 over it. Pray for one leader, one community, one family affected by crisis. Declaration: I declare that God's peace rises over every nation and His strength breaks every chain of fear. Call to Action: Share this prayer and visit DailyPrayer.uk for global devotional resources. 24-Hour ARC Connector:Previous: Friday 12 P.M. — Healing for Winter FatigueThis Episode: Friday 6 P.M. — Global Nations PrayerNext: Friday 8 P.M. — Overcoming Relational Strain in DecemberOutro: Thank you for praying with us today. For more daily devotion, follow us on all social platforms at DailyPrayer.uk. Support This Ministry:https://buymeacoffee.com/reverendbencooper psalm 46:1 prayer, global nations prayer, prayer for peace, prayer for crisis nations, christian prayer for nations, reverend ben cooper, dailyprayer.uk, global praSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Questa inchiesta giornalistica realizzata in Armenia tra la capitale Yerevan e la città di Gymri, porta alla luce, attraverso l'incontro con madri, avvocati, l'accesso a documenti inediti e luoghi sensibili, un stistema criminale di adozioni illegali sconosicuto nella sua ampiezza, gravità e per ora impunito. Un'inchiesta giudiziaria su sospette adozioni illegali all'estero è in corso in Armenia dal 2019 con 11 imputati e riguarda trenta casi di bambini adottati con una decisione della Corte tra il 2016 e il 2018, tra cui venti in Italia, gli altri tra Stati Uniti e Francia. Il principale imputato è Razmik Abrahamyan, direttore dell'Ospedale di Maternità Repubblicano di Yerevan, accusato, in particolare, di «separazione illegale di un bambino dai genitori o sostituzione di bambino». Tra gli altri imputati figurano Liana Karapetyan, ex direttrice dell'orfanotrofio “Mankan Tun”, chiamato anche “Children's Home” di Yerevan, ex funzionari del Ministero della Giustizia Armeno, del Comune di Yerevan, del Ministero del Lavoro e degli Affari Sociali armeni e Anush Garsantsyan, che è stata fino al 2022 la rappresentante in Armenia degli enti italiani accreditati dalla CAI (Commissione per le Adozioni Internazionali), l'autorità centrale italiana in materia di adozioni internazionali. Sarebbero 830 le madri armene che oggi cercano i figli, strappati dalla loro braccia alla nascita, adottati, senza il loro consenso libero e informato, all'estero. Madri a cui spesso era vietato vedere i neonati dichiarati morti, o mostrato un corpo diverso, minacciate, sedate. Oppure messe sotto pressione, perché sole, minorenni, o senza la possibilità di prendersi cura di figli dichiarati, in molti casi, in modo falso, malati. Questa inchiesta è stata realizzata da Sabrina Pisu e dalla fotogiornalista Cinzia Canneri con il supporto del Journalism Fund Europe.

There is a tradition that it was the young boy Ignatius whom Christ took upon his knee to explain to His followers that they must become as children to enter the Kingdom. He knew the holy Apostles personally and, with St Polycarp (February 25) was a disciple of St John the Evangelist. He succeeded Evodus as second Bishop of Antioch, the capital of Syria and at that time one of the largest cities in the world. Here, during the persecutions of Domitian, he strengthened the faithful, brought many pagans to Christ, and prayed that he himself would be granted the crown of martyrdom. His flock called him the Godbearer, a title that he did not refuse, for he said that all Christians after their Baptism are truly Bearers of Christ, clothed in the Holy Spirit.   When peace was restored to the Church for awhile, the holy Bishop devoted himself to organizing the young Church on strong foundations at a time when the last of the Apostles had only recently passed away. He established the principle that the Grace imparted to the Apostles at Pentecost was handed down to the bishops appointed by them, and so on through the generations: the Apostolic Succession.   The Emperor Trajan, passing through Syria to make war in Armenia, spent some time in Antioch and initiated a persecution of Christians. Rejoicing that the time of martyrdom had at last arrived, Ignatius presented himself before the Emperor and eloquently declared his faith in Christ.   "So you are a disciple of the one crucified under Pontius Pilate?" asked the Emperor.   "I am the disciple of Him who has nailed my sin to the Cross, and has trodden the Devil and his devices underfoot."   "Why do you call yourself the Godbearer?"   "Because I carry the living Christ within me!"   "Therefore, let the bearer of the Crucified One be taken in chains to Rome, there to be fed to the lions for the amusement of the people."   And so it was. During the long and difficult journey to Rome, cruelly mistreated by his guards, the Saint wrote a series of letters to the young churches which remain one of the treasures of the Church. In Smyrna, he was able to meet with his fellow-disciple Polycarp and entrust to him the care of the churches whose shepherd he had been. As Trajan had ordered, in Rome he was taken to the amphitheater and, as the Synaxarion says, "entered the arena as though approaching the holy altar to serve his last Liturgy in the presence of the faithful, who were crowded among pagans on the steps of the amphitheatre." In a few moments he was completely devoured by the lions, save for a few bones. These were gathered by the faithful and returned to Antioch.   In his Letter to the Romans, the holy Bishop wrote to some who wished to rescue him from his martyrdom: "I am the wheat of God, and am ground by the teeth of the wild beasts, that I may be found to be the pure bread of God."

What is a call? How does a person know if God is calling them to mission service? Join in a discussion as these and other questions are addressed.

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) A landmark legal ruling closes the week as a Wisconsin judge is found guilty of obstructing federal immigration agents, becoming the first state judge convicted for blocking an ICE arrest. Meanwhile, the man behind the Brown University shooting is identified after killing himself during a police standoff, with authorities confirming he was also responsible for the murder of an MIT professor. The case raises new questions about migrant crime, visa pathways, and possible foreign intelligence angles tied to nuclear research. The White House signals a tougher stance on immigration enforcement, moving to sharply increase denaturalization cases while warning that current citizenship laws are being exploited. President Trump also advances plans to reclassify marijuana to encourage research, finalizes a deal forcing TikTok's Chinese owner to sell most of its US stake, and prepares to decide whether Chinese drone maker DJI poses a national security threat. Abroad, Venezuela deploys naval escorts to protect oil shipments amid a US blockade, raising the risk of direct confrontation. Trump's Gaza peace plan stalls as Israel continues targeting Hamas leaders, even as another US-backed peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan quietly holds. The episode closes with Bryan previewing a special unscripted, listener-driven series for Christmas week.    "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: Wisconsin judge guilty obstruction ICE, Brown University shooter identified, MIT professor killing, migrant crime visas, denaturalization push, marijuana reclassification, TikTok ByteDance sale, DJI national security review, Venezuela oil blockade, Gaza peace plan, Armenia Azerbaijan agreement, Wright Report listener Q&A

In EVN Report's news roundup for the week of December 19: the European Union approves 20 million euro military aid package under the European Peace Facility; the National Security Service releases document alleging Archbishop Ezras Nersisyan, the Catholicos' brother collaborated with the Soviet KGB in the late 1980s; Azerbaijani gasoline reaches Armenia for the first time via the Azerbaijan-Georgia-Armenia rail route and more.

Conform ultimului raport al organizației  internaționale pentru libertatea presei Reporters sans frontières (RSF), care publică anual un Indice Mondial al Libertății Presei, în 2025 Kazahstanul se situează pe locul 141 din 180 de țări, relatează radio Europa Liberă în limba kazahă. „În timp ce calitatea informațiilor online s-a îmbunătățit, represiunea a devenit mai sofisticată: singurul spațiu în care mass-media independentă poate încă opera liber - internetul - este supus unui control sporit”, subliniază RSF în secțiunea dedicată Kazahstanului.În 2025, Kazahstanul a urcat un loc față de anul precedent, ajungând pe poziția 141, dar scorul său general a scăzut. Deși în 2024 se situa la 41,1 puncte, anul acesta a scăzut la 39,34 puncte.RSF evaluează libertatea presei folosind cinci indicatori. Kazahstanul a înregistrat o scădere semnificativă a indicatorilor politici, economici și juridici.Potrivit autorilor raportului, „autoritățile folosesc toate mijloacele posibile pentru a împiedica acoperirea media a evenimentelor sensibile, cum ar fi protestele din ianuarie 2022 de o amploare fără precedent în istoria recentă a țării”. Aceste mijloace includ arestări, atacuri, blocaje ale telecomunicațiilor și întreruperi ale internetului.RSF subliniază, de asemenea, că guvernul finanțează anumite instituții media private pentru a disemina mesaje pro-guvernamentale, menținând în același timp un control strict asupra numirii redactorilor-șefi ai mass-media deținute și controlate de stat.Pe plan juridic, organizația notează că, deși defăimarea a fost eliminată din Codul Penal, infracțiunea de „difuzare deliberată de informații false” rămâne o infracțiune. Raportul menționează, de asemenea, că Ministerul Afacerilor Externe invocă uneori „securitatea națională” pentru a refuza arbitrar acreditarea jurnaliștilor străini.În ceea ce privește siguranța jurnaliștilor, Kazahstanul ocupă locul 118, o creștere de șapte locuri față de anul precedent. Cu toate acestea, raportul subliniază că presiunile persistă. TUMO lansează Institutul Patrimoniului Cultural Armean Centrul armean pentru Tehnologii Creative TUMO a anunțat oficial lansarea Institutului Patrimoniului Cultural Armean, care dorește să fie un centru de documentare și conservare a patrimoniului armean, relatează agenția de presă Armenpress.Institutul va avea  o platformă online open access.Platforma, care este deschisă tuturor, permite utilizatorilor să exploreze patrimoniul din Armenia și din Nagorno-Karabah prin intermediul unor modele 3D complet accesibile, descoperind istoria lor și putând examina ușor fiecare detaliu.Pe lângă activitatea sa de digitalizare a patrimoniului, institutul dezvoltă un ecosistem incluziv de inițiative în domeniul patrimoniului: colectează istorii orale despre monumente și comunități, înregistrează tradiții și conservă patrimoniul sonor și muzical. 

In EVN Report's news roundup for the week of December 19: the European Union approves 20 million euro military aid package under the European Peace Facility; the National Security Service releases document alleging Archbishop Ezras Nersisyan, the Catholicos' brother collaborated with the Soviet KGB in the late 1980s; Azerbaijani gasoline reaches Armenia for the first time via the Azerbaijan-Georgia-Armenia rail route and more. The post EU Approves 20 Million Euro Military Aid Package appeared first on EVN Report.

Max and Maria spoke with Sergey Radchenko about the state of affairs in peace negotiations over Ukraine as we come to the close of 2025. They discuss the different parties' goals and positions, and how this current round of negotiations compares to the talks in Istanbul at the start of the full-scale invasion back in 2022. This conversation was recorded on December 12, 2025. "America's Magical Thinking About Ukraine: A Bad Deal Is Worse Than No Deal," by Sergey Radchenko (Foreign Affairs, December 2025). "The Talks That Could Have Ended the War in Ukraine: A Hidden History of Diplomacy That Came Up Short — but Holds Lessons for Future Negotiations," by Samuel Charap and Sergey Radchenko (Foreign Affairs, April 2024).

Over 35 years ago, the Gyumri earthquake left the second largest city in Armenia in shambles. Now three decades later the remnants of this disaster still remain, both visually throughout the city, and in the cruel cycle of poverty that has resulted. Through housing initiatives to permanently reduce domik, or container living, afterschool programs that provide enrichment for the future generation, and vocational training that gives people the opportunity to provide, strides are being made to not only move forward, but to thrive forward.  Learn more about the Paros Housing, After School, and Vocational Center and get involved here: https://parosfoundation.org/donations/paros-center/

Spotlight on Silence - December 18, 2025This episode examines a growing pattern of political pressure in Armenia, where journalists, lawyers, activists, and clergy are targeted through criminal prosecutions, selective justice, and coordinated propaganda. Drawing on recent cases and legal analysis, the discussion focuses on how laws such as Article 236 are used to constrain speech, protest, and independent institutions.Topics:Criminalization of Speech and Dissent in ArmeniaLegal Pressure on Lawyers, Journalists, and ClergySelective Justice and Coordinated PropagandaArticle 236 and the Policing of ProtestArmenian Center for Political Rights (ACPR) Reports:2025-10-17 Statement on case of Aleksander Kochubaev: https://bit.ly/4j7thWK 2025-10-27 Statement on case of Ruben Mkhitaryan: https://bit.ly/4aopzFR 2025-11-14 Statement on case of Antifake: http://bit.ly/48YZOtr2025-12-06 Injustice in Armenia - Part I: https://bit.ly/4qAzhtNGuest: Rafael IshkhanyanHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 497 | Recorded: December 13, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/497VIDEO: https://youtu.be/-aRS_GqoCjE#SpotlightOnSilence #ArmeniaJustice #PoliticalPrisoners #FreedomOfSpeech #RuleOfLaw #HumanRights #GroongSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Radio International - The Ultimate Eurovision Experience is broadcast from Malta's Radio 105FM on Tuesday evenings from 2100 - 0059 hours CET. The show is broadcast live on Wednesday evenings from 1900 - 2300 hours CET on the Eurovision Radio International Mixcloud Channel as well as on the Facebook Page of Eurovision Radio International with an interactive chatroom.         AT A GLANCE - ON THE SHOW THIS WEEK  The Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025 - We have a Winner Junior Eurovision 2025 Interview with  Sofia Nersesian (JESC 2025, Ukraine, Number 2) Junior Eurovision 2025 Interview with  Nela Mančeska (JESC 2025, North Macedonia, Number 7 Junior Eurovision 2025 Interview with  Leonardo Giovannangeli (JESC 2025, Italy, Number 12) Junior Eurovision 2025 Interview with  Inês Gonçalves (JESC 2025, Portugal, Number 13) Step into a Eurovision Christmas - Eurovision Artists sing Christmas Songs  The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 National Final Season Eurovision Spotlight: Austria's History at the Eurovision Song Contest  with Chris Poppe (final in the current series) Eurovision News with Nick van Lith from www.escXtra.com Eurovision Birthday File with David Mann Eurovision Cover Spot with David Mann Eurovision Calendar with Javier Leal  National Final Update for Junior and Eurovision Song Contest with Alain Forotti  New Music Releases by Eurovision Artists  Your music requests    The Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025 - We have a Winner: The 23rd edition of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest was held on Saturday 13 Dec 2025 from the Gymnastic Hall of the Olympic City in Tblisi in Georgia with young artists from 18 countries taking part. In the running order: Malta, Azerbaijan, Croatia, San Marino, Armenia, Ukraine, Ireland, The Netherlands, Poland, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Georgia, Cyprus, France and Albania. Returning countries were Azerbaijan, Croatia and Montenegro while Estonia and Germany took a break. The Hosts of the show were David Aladashvili and Liza Tsiklauri. The show started at 1700 hours CET.        Lou Deleuze - Junior Eurovision 2025 Winner for France   CONGRATULATIONS !!! to Lou Deleuze from France   for winning the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025  with the song "Ce Monde"   with a total of 248 points       The Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025 Scoreboard   Interviews with four Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025 Little Artists:  The Radio International Rowing Reporter Alain Forrotti has traveled to Tiblisi, Georgia to meet some of the young stars and interview them. Meet the four young artists on the show this week.  Sofia Nersesian (Ukraine, Number 2, "Motanka"),  Nela Mančeska (North Macedonia, Number 7, "Miracle" ),  Leonardo Giovannangeli (Italy, Number 12, "Rockstar") Inês Gonçalves (Portugal, Number 13, "Para onde vai o amor?")         The Eurovision Spotlight - The history of Austria at the Eurovision Song Contest:  It is time for the traditional look at the next host country's Eurovision Song Contest entries. JJ won Eurovision 2025 and with that Austria will host the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in the Wiener Stadthalle on 12 and 14 May 2026 for the two Semi Finals and the Grand Finale to take place on Saturday, 16 May 2026. Over the next weeks and before the National Final Season for 2026, Radio International's team members will be reviewing all the Eurovision entries from Austria. Chris Poppe will be continuing series of the Eurovision Spotlight looking at the history of Austria at the Eurovision Song Contest.   Eurovision News, New Song Releases, Birthday File, Coverspot, Eurovision Calendar:Also JP will be joined by David Mann for the Eurovision Birthday File and Eurovision Coverspot.  Javier stands in for Nick and will be presenting the Eurovision News courtesy of escXtra.com. There will be a lot of the great new releases of Eurovision artists on the show as well as great Eurovision Classics. Javier will be updating us on the upcoming Eurovision events in the Eurovision Calendar and Alain Forotti gives us already some updates of the National Finals regarding the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025 and the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 and and....   For full details of this week's Show Content and Play List - click here

Groong Week in Review - December 14, 2025Topics:  - Armenia between EU and Russia  - Church–state confrontation in Armenia  - Artsakh concessions and return debate  - Economy, debt, and governance  - NSS raids Artsakh officesGuest: Arthur Khachatryan, MPHosts:  - Hovik Manucharyan  - Asbed BedrossianEpisode 496 | Recorded: December 15, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/496#ArmeniaPolitics #EUvsRussia #ArmenianChurch #Artsakh #GeopoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

In this episode of War & Peace, Olga Oliker and Alissa de Carbonnel are joined by Joshua Kucera, Crisis Group's Senior Analyst for the South Caucasus, to discuss the increasingly difficult situation facing people displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh in Armenia after Azerbaijan regained control of the territory in a rapid 2023 offensive. They unpack the refugees' mounting challenges–from insecure housing after cuts to government assistance to discrimination–and their growing frustration with Armenia's government. They also examine the role refugees from Karabakh might play in Armenia's 2026 elections and peace efforts with Azerbaijan, their hopes of return, and what the EU can do to help Yerevan respond.For more, check out our Armenian-Azerbaijani Conflict and Europe & Central Asia pages. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We see the diversification mirage – one of our 2026 Outlook themes – playing out in real time with a sharp spike in global bond yields. Natalie Gill, Portfolio Strategist at the BlackRock Investment Institute, explains. FOR PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION IN THE U.S., CANADA, LATIN AMERICA, AUSTRIA, BELGIUM, DENMARK, FINLAND, FRANCE, GERMANY, IRELAND, ISRAEL, ITALY, LIECHENSTEIN, LUXEMBOURG, NETHERLANDS, NORWAY, PORTUGAL, SOUTH AFRICA, SPAIN, SWEDEN, SWITZERLAND, THE UNITED KINGDOM, HONG KONG, SINGAPORE AND AUSTRALIA. FOR INSTITUTIONAL, PROFESSIONAL, QUALIFIED CLIENTS/INVESTORS IN OTHER PERMITTED COUNTRIES. General disclosure: This document is marketing material, is intended for information and educational purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities or any investment strategies. The opinions expressed are as of [DATE] and are subject to change without notice. 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Powered by NoFo BrewingThis week, we travel to Argentina to check in on some old friends in a finalWe see which familiar names are struggling in Guatemala and Poland- and to the latter, what a win in Armenia means playing that Polish clubA streak comes to an end in England and we're seeing double in Cameroon as AFCON is right around the corner...Around the planet in 32 minutes... it's The Roots...

Gruzja coraz mocniej dryfuje w stronę autorytaryzmu. Nowe ustawy, presja na media, ingerencja w edukację i polityka pełzającej izolacji od Zachodu przypominają dziś niepokojący „model rosyjski”. Co oznacza to dla Kaukazu, dla bezpieczeństwa regionu i dla Unii Europejskiej? Czy Gruzja świadomie staje się kolejnym państwem w orbicie wpływów Kremla, podczas gdy Armenia próbuje wyrwać się z jego uścisku? W rozmowie z Agnieszką Filipiak (Forbes Women Polska) analizujemy: czy władze Gruzji kopiują rosyjskie metody kontroli społeczeństwa, jak nowe reformy edukacyjne zmieniają młode pokolenie, dlaczego rosyjscy obywatele masowo osiedlają się w Gruzji,

Freestyle Friiday gets you started on your weekend on SDH AMWe go over the results from yesterday in Europe and preview the weekend in England- with your latest from the pressers across the PremWe also go a little into Soccer Over There territory learning about some teams that got some key wins...Vancouver World Cup Committee Lead Jessie Adcock visits as SDH continues the series on each host city's preps for the tournament in 2026We go over the discussions in the NWSL about salary cap and salaries- Soccer For USPod's Bart Keeler joins the segment and previews episode 133

In EVN Report's news roundup for the week of December 12: Armenia and Germany sign joint declaration on a new Strategic Agenda for bilateral partnership; Yerevan and Baku begin talks on potential export of Azerbaijani fuel to Armenia; Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan proposes a joint roadmap with Azerbaijan to close two issues: the return of Armenians to Nagorno-Karabakh and Baku's so-called “Western Azerbaijan” narrative and more.

We have to seek to know what God's Plan and Purpose is for us. I've known almost from birth, from my earliest conscious days, that God had a Plan and a Purpose for my life. And all I've tried to do, all my life, is to be OBEDIENT – to hear the call and to go out and do it. It takes an enormous amount of faith, that's why I seek the Holy Spirit! There are nine gifts of the Holy Spirit – but the gift that I asked for above all others is the gift of faith in order to be able to do what God says! In my life, going to Ukraine, going to Russia, Armenia, Georgia, Poland – is only in OBEDIENCE to what God is calling me to do.  I am determined, TODAY God will pour out His Holy Spirit on ALL flesh, and ALL who call on the Name of the Lord will be delivered. He has promised, He HAS to do it… This is why I can go to any country where there has been no revival and EXPECT God to fulfil His Promise to pour out His Spirit on whoever, on ALL flesh. 'Whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it,' (John 14.12-14, NIV). 

In 2025, a new initiative exploring cultural dialogues between Europe and the Middle East was launched, involving organizations from Italy, France, Croatia, the Netherlands and Armenia. Titled Cross-Looking, the project examines how contemporary visual artists can challenge inherited colonial frameworks and reimagine perceptions of the "Other." It brings together 22 young artists for residencies in Yerevan, Cairo, Istanbul, and Rome. In this special English-language podcast episode, we speak with the project's initiator Andrea Savorani Neri about the initiative's goals and his work in Armenia.

In this episode, I sit down with pianist and educator Mirna Lekić for a conversation that spans continents, sound worlds, and the deeper layers of what music can mean in a human life.Born and raised in Sarajevo during the Bosnian War and now based in New York City, Mirna brings a rare perspective to the piano — one shaped by resilience, migration, devotion, and an unshakable belief in music as a stabilizing, healing force.We explore her acclaimed 2023 album MIRAGE, a breathtaking collection of sonic illusions and cultural crossings that reimagines the piano as a global storyteller — moving from Azerbaijan to Spain, Armenia to Java, and beyond.This episode dives into:how early musical experiences during war shaped Mirna's artistic identitythe healing and stabilizing role music played during her family's resettlementthe depth of Bosnian and Balkan musical influenceshow cultural diversity becomes musical philosophy, not performanceMIRAGE and its groundbreaking approach to sound, resonance, and identitycollaborative work with living composers, shadow puppeteers, and multidisciplinary artistshow educators can guide young musicians toward authenticity in a rapidly changing worldIt's a conversation about healing, devotion, heritage, and the power of sound to help us make sense of where we come from — and where we're going.

Groong Week in Review - December 7, 2025Topics1988 Earthquake RememberedPashinyan's War on the Armenian ChurchEU-Armenia RelationsNagorno-Karabakh Negotiation DocumentsARAR Foundation PollGuestBenyamin PoghosyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 494 | Recorded: December 8, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/494Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

This session will examine key considerations for leaders, senders, and international travelers/workers in the areas of duty of care, risk assessment, contingency planning, security, and common pitfalls ("lessons learned") in international mission work.

Radio International - The Ultimate Eurovision Experience is broadcast from Malta's Radio 105FM on Tuesday evenings from 2100 - 0059 hours CET. The show is broadcast live on Wednesday evenings from 1900 - 2300 hours CET on the Eurovision Radio International Mixcloud Channel as well as on the Facebook Page of Eurovision Radio International with an interactive chatroom.             AT A GLANCE - ON THE SHOW THIS WEEK  Live Interview with Djurdja (Montesong 2026, Montenegro's National Final to Eurovision Song Contest 2026) The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 National Final Season The Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025 - Review and Preview - The Warm-Up Eurovision Spotlight: Austria's History at the Eurovision Song Contest  with Alasdair Rendall Eurovision News with Nick van Lith from www.escXtra.com Eurovision Birthday File with David Mann Eurovision Cover Spot with David Mann Eurovision Calendar with Javier Leal  National Final Update for Junior and Eurovision Song Contest with Alain Forotti  New Music Releases by Eurovision Artists  Your music requests    Live Interview with Djurdja (Montesong 2026):  Montesong is the national selection process to find the song and the artist that will represent Montenegro at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. The winner of Montesong 2026 will go to Vienna, Austria in May waving the flag for Montenegro and of course singing the song that will be selected in Montenegro. Our very first guest of the National Final Season for Eurovision 2026 will be Djurdja. Her entry is entitled "Dominos" and is penned by a number of songwriters well known in the world of the Eurovision Song Contest: David Lindgren Zacharias, Melanie Wehbe, Patrik Jean, Herman Gardarfve and Eric Lehmann. The Interview Team of Radio International will be thrilled to have Djurdja on the show.       The Eurovision Spotlight - The history of Austria at the Eurovision Song Contest:  It is time for the traditional look at the next host country's Eurovision Song Contest entries. JJ won Eurovision 2025 and with that Austria will host the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in the Wiener Stadthalle on 12 and 14 May 2026 for the two Semi Finals and the Grand Finale to take place on Saturday, 16 May 2026. Over the next weeks and before the National Final Season for 2026, Radio International's team members will be reviewing all the Eurovision entries from Austria. Alasdair Rendall will be continuing series of the Eurovision Spotlight looking at the history of Austria at the Eurovision Song Contest. The Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025: The 23rd edition of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest will be held on Saturday 13 Dec 2025 from the Gymnastic Hall of the Olympic City in Tblisi in Georgia with young artists from 18 countries taking part. In the running order: Malta, Azerbaijan, Croatia, San Marino, Armenia, Ukraine, Ireland, The Netherlands, Poland, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Georgia, Cyprus, France and Albania.  Returning countries are Azerbaijan, Croatia and Montenegro while Estonia and Germany are taking a break. The Hosts of the show are David Aladashvili and Liza Tsiklauri. The show starts at 1700 hours CET. Last year's Winner was Georgia's Andria Putkaradze who won with the song "To my mom".  To get you into the mood for the upcoming Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025 on Sat 13 Dec 2025, 1700 hours CET via www.junioreurovision.tv, listen back to Radio International from 07 Dec 2022 which features the Galary of the Winners of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest - click here     Eurovision News, New Song Releases, Birthday File, Coverspot, Eurovision Calendar:Also JP will be joined by David Mann for the Eurovision Birthday File and Eurovision Coverspot.  Javier stands in for Nick and will be presenting the Eurovision News courtesy of escXtra.com. There will be a lot of the great new releases of Eurovision artists on the show as well as great Eurovision Classics. Javier will be updating us on the upcoming Eurovision events in the Eurovision Calendar and Alain Forotti gives us already some updates of the National Finals regarding the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025 and the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 and and....   For full details of this week's Show Content and Play List - click here

Something is rotten in the state of Armenia. Many know aboutthe Armenian Genocide from the early 20th Century. Few realize that the same threats continue to loom over Armenian Christians still. In recent years, Azerbaijan ethnically cleansed over 100,000 Armenians from their ethnic homeland in Nagorno-Karabakh. Is there a pattern between these actions from the last century and today?And why are there several Armenian archbishops sitting injail right now – in Armenia? Would the Armenian government really attack the Armenian Christian Church? Joining Andy to address these and other issues is Joel Veldkamp. Joel serves with Christian Solidarity International (CSI) and provides shocking insights into the sobering situation in Armenia. If you find this episode helpful, please give us a positiverating and review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. Also share this episode with a friend so they too can be blessed by these insights.To learn more about resources mentioned in this episode, seethe following:Christian Solidarity International (CSI) Website : https://csi-usa.org/ Link for sending a letter on behalf of Suleiman Khalil: https://www.csi-int.org/campaigns/suleiman-khalil/In Days of Darkness: A Manual for Ordinary Christians FacingUnusual Times, by Andy Coleman (Book):https://www.amazon.com/Days-Darkness-Ordinary-Christians-Unusual/dp/1636985734 Christian Emergency Alliance (Website):https://www.christianemergency.com/Christian Emergency Alliance (Twitter / X):https://x.com/ChristianEmerg1Christian Emergency Alliance (Facebook):https://www.facebook.com/christianemergencyChristian Emergency Alliance (Instagram):https://www.instagram.com/christianemergencyalliance/The Christian Emergency Podcast is a production of theChristian Emergency Alliance.Soli Deo Gloria

Curious how to build real web apps with AI without turning into a prompt robot? We sit down with developer advocate and author Emma Saroyan to unpack a practical path for using OpenAI APIs and Next.js to turn ideas into shipped projects you actually understand. From smart prompting to project structure, Emma shows how to work with AI as an assistant you guide, not a textbook to copy.Emma also takes us inside her community work in Armenia, sharing how culture shapes developer communication and adoption. We talk about how to avoid over-reliance on tools, and why accessibility matters—especially for newcomers who can use AI to prototype quickly and then deepen their skills. If you're ready to ship faster without losing your craft, tune in, subscribe for more conversations like this, and leave a comment with the next AI-powered feature you want to build.Connect with Emma on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-saroyanCheck out Emma's book 'Generative AI for Web Development': https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/979-8-8688-0885-2______

More than 300 children were kidnapped from a school in the Western Nigerian village of Papiri in November, but in the aftermath, accounts of the kidnappings were confused and misleading. BBC Africa's Madina Maishanu was part of a team of journalists who faced huge risk to visit the site of the kidnappings and hear the testimonies of parents. In October this year, a young Chechen woman living in Armenia, Aishat Baimuradova, was killed. She'd previously escaped a repressive life in Chechnya but is now believed to be the first Chechen woman in exile to be killed outside of Russia. BBC Russian's Zlata Onufrieva and Olga Prosvirova set out what is known about Aishat's life and death, and consider the implications of her killing for Chechen women living in exile. This episode of The Documentary comes to you from The Fifth Floor, the show at the heart of global storytelling, with BBC journalists from all around the world. Presented by Faranak Amidi. Produced by Laura Thomas, Caroline Ferguson and Hannah Dean. (Photo: Faranak Amidi. Credit: Tricia Yourkevich.)

In EVN Report's news roundup for the week of December 5: Armenia and the EU adopt a new Strategic Agenda; Church–state tensions continue to escalate as ten bishops call for the Catholicos' resignation; Government releases key OSCE Minsk Group documents from past Nagorno-Karabakh negotiations and more.

Ed and Reid are here to discuss a range of topics, like: Getting insulted at the doctor, problems with The Matrix, Steam banning the game Horses, holiday memories, and an ad hoc review of Zero Dark Thirty. This episode is brought to you by the Republic of Armenia and Daron Malakian's new centrist rallying cry, "Your Lives Burn."

This might meet with controversy, but I think Adam is correct. growing non-indigenous varietals, whether it be Armenia, Georgia or anywhere else, supports the chances of burgeoning wine regions to get any traction in the world of wine. It is tough out there where brand recognition is a tough battle to win, and consumers are inundated with messaging. Adam has taken, not sure I can call it the high road, but "A" road to getting his wines recognized as worthy of your attention. And he has done it by growing what otherwise would be sacreligious varietals.   In this special episode, I sit down with Adam Kablanian, the visionary founder and owner of Alexandria Winery in Armenia—a man whose life has spanned the worlds of microchip design and ancient terroir, bringing together the precision of Silicon Valley and the heart of Armenian soil. Our story begins with Adam Kablanian's ambitious dream: to put Armenia on the world wine map, proving that its volcanic soils and diverse terroirs can produce wines of excellence and distinct character. Raised in physics and forged in the fires of tech entrepreneurship, Adam Kablanian isn't your typical winemaker. He talks about hiring talented minds for his tech companies and learning, through trial and success, that potential is more about people and environment than just experience. This philosophy naturally transitioned when he began examining the land, the grapes, and the possibilities in Armenia—a nation with a deep but interrupted history of winemaking. Adam Kablanian shares how he could have chosen the comfort and prestige of Napa, but instead, he was drawn to the challenge and the adventure of Armenia, where land is cheaper, and the story richer. His approach is pragmatic and inspirational; recognizing the headwinds of unfamiliar grape names and unknown regions, he decided to bridge old and new by producing international varietals alongside Armenia's indigenous grapes. His winemaking isn't just about bottles—it's about creating honest wines that echo the terroir, about blending ancient vines with modern techniques, and, most importantly, about making wine accessible. From his initial days struggling with unremarkable local wines, to witnessing Armenia's transformation as technology and global culture elevated the nation's palate, Adam Kablanian reflects on the intersection of progress and tradition. He sees his winery not just as a business—"a $10 million investment in belief"—but as a proof point that Armenia, with its elevation, volcanic soils, and unique varieties, can inspire the world. This episode invites you behind the curtain—to learn not just about wine, but about vision, persistence, and the courage to marry old roots with new dreams. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or just wine-curious, the journey of Adam Kablanian will remind you that wine is much more than a drink; it's an expression of humanity, a link between land, culture, and the boldness it takes to create something lasting. So pour a glass, settle in, and let this story inspire your next sip and next adventure. YouTube:  https://youtu.be/bJ9_r7-LYQQ #WineTalks #ArmenianWine #WinePodcast #Terroir

Spain's radically different approach to migration, how Norway is taking the fun out of gambling and a rare glimpse into an Italian prison amid a push to reform. Then: the brutal murder of journalist and environmental defender Hakan Tosun, NVIDIA's new AI hub in Armenia, and our first Age is Just a Number profile, featuring Lefteris Arapakis – a man on a mission to clean up the Mediterranean.

Jon Najarian, co-founder of Market Rebellion and TradeMonster, discusses how his first trip to Armenia and his daughters' influence have deepened his relationship to his heritage. He shares a remarkable family story, from the founding of the Lazar Najarian–Calouste Gulbenkian School in Syria to pioneering organ-transplant surgery in the United States.

We've talked a lot about Lordi and their 2006 win in Athens, and with the 20th anniversary rapidly approaching next year, we wanted our listeners to be up on one of the best contests of the otherwise not-so-great '00s era. And who better to join us in Athens than Greek pop expert and comedian Mano Agapion to talk about all the high and lowlights of the Grand Final? Jeremy taps the sign with his one rule of rock, Dimitry imagines a young Alexander Rybak getting inspired, Mano has OPINIONS about Anna Vissi, and Oscar's duty freeeeeeeee.Listen to Oscar & Mano's podcast, Drag Her: https://headgum.com/drag-her-a-rupauls-drag-race-podcastWatch the unbroadcast HD version of 2006: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqxXIq5xEWkgermThis week's companion playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5oxMmEDitWpE4PAnk5WOI0 The Eurovangelists are Jeremy Bent, Oscar Montoya and Dimitry Pompée.The theme was arranged and recorded by Cody McCorry and Faye Fadem, and the logo was designed by Tom Deja.Production support for this show was provided by the Maximum Fun network.The show is edited by Jeremy Bent with audio mixing help was courtesy of Shane O'Connell.Find Eurovangelists on social media as @eurovangelists on Instagram and @eurovangelists.com on Bluesky, or send us an email at eurovangelists@gmail.com. Head to https://maxfunstore.com/collections/eurovangelists for Eurovangelists merch. Also follow the Eurovangelists account on Spotify and check out our playlists of Eurovision hits, competitors in upcoming national finals, and companion playlists to every single episode, including this one!

Groong Week in Review - November 30, 2025TopicsOSCE MG DissolvedLibaridian on Submitting to Turkey and AzerbaijanNew Constitution to be Drafted by March 2026Archbishops, Letters, Attacks on the ChurchBorder Commissions Meet in BakuComments from Jacob PursleyGuestArthur KhachikyanHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 493 | Recorded: December 2, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/493Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Es difícil abordar un tema tan delicado como el genocidio del «pueblo de la cruz». Por eso, D. Ricardo Ruiz de la Serna, profesor de Historia del Mundo Actual en CEU San Pablo (Madrid, España) y autor del libro «El genocidio armenio», pone las bases en este primer programa de «Un ancla en la tormenta», presentándonos la situación histórica, cultural y política de la Armenia histórica, para que conociendo la vida que había antes de «El genocidio armenio», podamos valorar más los acontecimientos trágicos que seguirán.

He was born into a Christian family at Nikopolis in Armenia. When he was eighteen his parents died, and with twelve other young men he established a small monastery. After a few years, much against his will he was made Bishop of Colonia, but he continued to live the ascetic life of a monk. After nine years of service as bishop, discouraged by the worldliness and intrigue around him, he secretly left for Jerusalem to live as a monk. He was divinely guided to the monastery of St Sabas, who received him and, knowing nothing of his rank, assigned him a lowly place among the new monks. Saint John cheerfully undertook whatever task was given to him and served the other monks in humility and silence. After completing his novitiate he was given a cell where he lived in total silence, fasting five days a week. On Saturdays and Sundays he joined the brethren for prayer, Communion and meals; but even at these times the other monks were edified by his silence and unceasing compunction. Saint Sabas desired to make him a priest and took him to be ordained by the Patriarch of Jerusalem. Saint John asked the Patriarch for a private meeting and explained that he could not be ordained because he was already a bishop. The Patriarch returned St John to St Sabas, telling him only that it was impossible for him to ordain John, who should be allowed to live in silence and solitude. Saint Sabas was perplexed (thinking that some sin prevented the monk from being ordained), but soon received a revelation of John's true rank.   After many years of reclusion, St John withdrew further to a cave in the desert for nine years. He became known as a divinely-enlightened counselor and a wonderworker, and cheerfully received all who came to him for guidance or prayer. In 509 he returned to the monastery, where he lived as an anchorite in his cell, communicating with the world only through one of his disciples. For many years he lived only on thin porridge, into which he would mix ashes. One day a disciple saw him pouring ashes into his food, and John abandoned the practice, not wanting to be known for the practice of any virtue.   Once he asked God for a sign revealing whether he would be granted to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Taking a fig-seed, he placed it on a bare rock outside his cell. Without soil or water, the seed brought forth a plant, put forth leaves and flowers, and produced three figs, which St John shared with his disciples. The Saint then made ready for death. He reposed in peace, at the age of 104.

He was born into a Christian family at Nikopolis in Armenia. When he was eighteen his parents died, and with twelve other young men he established a small monastery. After a few years, much against his will he was made Bishop of Colonia, but he continued to live the ascetic life of a monk. After nine years of service as bishop, discouraged by the worldliness and intrigue around him, he secretly left for Jerusalem to live as a monk. He was divinely guided to the monastery of St Sabas, who received him and, knowing nothing of his rank, assigned him a lowly place among the new monks. Saint John cheerfully undertook whatever task was given to him and served the other monks in humility and silence. After completing his novitiate he was given a cell where he lived in total silence, fasting five days a week. On Saturdays and Sundays he joined the brethren for prayer, Communion and meals; but even at these times the other monks were edified by his silence and unceasing compunction. Saint Sabas desired to make him a priest and took him to be ordained by the Patriarch of Jerusalem. Saint John asked the Patriarch for a private meeting and explained that he could not be ordained because he was already a bishop. The Patriarch returned St John to St Sabas, telling him only that it was impossible for him to ordain John, who should be allowed to live in silence and solitude. Saint Sabas was perplexed (thinking that some sin prevented the monk from being ordained), but soon received a revelation of John's true rank.   After many years of reclusion, St John withdrew further to a cave in the desert for nine years. He became known as a divinely-enlightened counselor and a wonderworker, and cheerfully received all who came to him for guidance or prayer. In 509 he returned to the monastery, where he lived as an anchorite in his cell, communicating with the world only through one of his disciples. For many years he lived only on thin porridge, into which he would mix ashes. One day a disciple saw him pouring ashes into his food, and John abandoned the practice, not wanting to be known for the practice of any virtue.   Once he asked God for a sign revealing whether he would be granted to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Taking a fig-seed, he placed it on a bare rock outside his cell. Without soil or water, the seed brought forth a plant, put forth leaves and flowers, and produced three figs, which St John shared with his disciples. The Saint then made ready for death. He reposed in peace, at the age of 104.

Después de habernos situado en el contexto de la Armenia histórica, el Prof. Ricardo Ruiz de la Serna, profesor de Historia del Mundo Actual en CEU San Pablo (Madrid, España) y autor del libro «El genocidio armenio», expone en este nuevo episodio de «Un ancla en la tormenta» el proceso del declive del Imperio otomano. En los intentos que hubo de reformarse y superar este declive, preguntándose por la identidad de la nación otomana, movimientos nacionalistas de panturquismo empezaban a cuestionar la posición de tolerancia que tenía hacia los cristianos, una minoría religiosa. Tras la serie de derrotas militares a los países balcánicos –mayoritariamente cristianos– empezaban a mirar a los armenios como una amenaza existencial a la estabilidad de su Imperio debilitado; el desarrollo de ese estado de alienación y sospecha de los armenios de parte de los otomanos provocaría, finalmente, «el genocidio armenio».

Max speaks with Michael Kimmage about his immediate reactions to the new 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, and the rapid-fire diplomacy taking place in response to its release. This conversation was recorded on November 24, 2025.

Conversations on Groong - December 1, 2025Topics:US and VenezuelaPotential for New War on IranIs Azerbaijan a “Middle Power”?Europe's Confused Geopolitical IdentityArmenia's Confused GeopoliticsGuest: Eldar MamedovHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 492 | Recorded: November 29, 2025VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SjcJMIis7sgSHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/492#IranCrisis #AzerbaijanPolitics #EuropeanGeopolitics #ArmeniaSecurity #SouthCaucasus #GlobalPowerPoliticsSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

Conversations on Groong - November 27, 2025Topics: Clergy Arrests in Armenia Church Under Pressure Prayer Breakfast Controversy Western Silence on Repression CSI's Findings in YerevanGuest: Joel VeldkampHosts:Hovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 490 | Recorded: November 25, 2025SHOW NOTES: https://podcasts.groong.org/490VIDEO: https://youtu.be/BGnt2feIXMs#ArmenianChurch #ReligiousFreedom #ClergyArrests #ChristianSolidarityInternational #HumanRightsInArmeniaSubscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

We all know that huge sums of money are invested in creating new, more effective weapons of war.  Brian Abrams sees an opportunity to invest instead in what he calls "peace tech," emerging businesses using technologies and creative methods designed to prevent war from happening in the first place. He's created a new firm, B Ventures, and in this Blue Sky episode he describes with infectious optimism his exciting vision for the future.    Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Brian Abrams  Bill Burke introduces Brian Abrams, founder of B Ventures Group, an investment fund focused on global peacebuilding and conflict resolution through "peace tech." Brian's extensive background in managing over $1 billion in assets and his human-centric investment philosophy are highlighted.  02:09 From Founder to Venture Capitalist  Brian shares his career journey, starting as an entrepreneur in India where he experienced failure, which led him to realize his strength in spotting opportunities rather than operationalizing them. He then transitioned to venture capital in Israel, building a fund from $2 million to over $1.2 billion, emphasizing the role of luck and a pivotal moment in fostering peace initiatives.  08:28 The Genesis of Peace Tech  Brian reflects on his past experiences, including a startup's condition to include Palestinian teammates during an acquisition, which planted the seed for his current work. He explains his philosophy of using money to serve people and approaching problems from a bottom-up perspective, leading him to focus on peace tech as an alternative to military tech.  10:17 The Rationale for Peace Tech  Drawing inspiration from Thich Nhat Hanh's philosophy of 'interbeing,' Brian articulates why war is illogical and a form of collective self-harm. He emphasizes the enormous economic cost of violent conflict, totaling $19 trillion annually, and how venture capital's bottom-up, experimental approach can offer innovative solutions for peacebuilding.  15:28 AI in Crisis Simulation  Brian describes an investment in a startup founded by a Harvard researcher who developed an AI-powered crisis simulation platform. This technology aims to anticipate and prevent future conflicts, like potential World War III over Taiwan, by running thousands of scenarios daily, far exceeding traditional war games.  21:32 Business Model for Peace Tech  Brian explains the twofold business model for peace tech startups: selling to friendly governments and to companies for competitive landscape analysis. He emphasizes that a for-profit model ensures scalability and continuous funding, unlike grants, allowing for exponential growth and a virtuous cycle to prevent major conflicts.  29:23 Peace Tech: Agile and Ethical  Brian highlights the agility of venture-backed peace tech companies compared to traditional government or academic initiatives, citing an example of a startup rapidly forming after the dismantling of the US Institute of Peace. He defines peace tech as anything that preempts, mitigates, or resolves violent conflict, adhering to a 'first do no harm' principle.  34:26 Peace Tech Investments and Ecosystem  Brian discusses additional investments, including a company creating digital twins of societies to understand and model civil conflicts like those between Armenia and Azerbaijan. He describes the growing Peace Tech ecosystem, drawing parallels to the private space industry's exponential growth, and aims to build a global community of founders and investors.  41:12 Conclusion and Call to Action  Bill Burke reflects on how technology's ability to show the grim reality of war might increase the fervent desire for peace. Brian encourages listeners to connect via LinkedIn and join the Peace Tech community, expressing his strong optimism for the future impact of this movement.   

Hailing from Yerevan, Armenia, Innersha is a producer and live artist who has created a fresh and sophisticated perspective on contemporary live techno. Her sound is a dense constellation of IDM intricacies, celestial textures, and deep techno grooves that drift effortlessly into the depths of mind-altering psychedelia. This unique sonic signature has already led to visionary live sets at revered institutions including Bassiani, Berghain's Säule, and Pe:rsona, alongside multiple performances at this year's Mo:Dem Festival. For this recording, Innersha moves between the physical and the ethereal, constructing a narrative that perfectly balances the tactile weight of rhythm with the weightlessness of space. It is a trip that feels both intimate and expansive, navigating through cycles of sonic construction and deconstruction. A deep cerebral excursion witnessing the formation of entirely new sonic dimensions. Reflecting on the process that shaped this session, Innersha shares: "The recording is an exploration of materials and impressions gathered throughout 2025. Across the year, I found myself working with percussive instruments, exploring the pulse and the subtle variations of repetition that come from real movement. Another part of this process was diving into ambient abstraction, constantly shifting atmospheres that reshape the context. In the dialogue between these two elements, a story began to form about collapse, rebirth, and the formation of new universes. The set was recorded in my studio in Yerevan, where most of the days drift into exploring sound." Turn the volume high and lose yourself in a new realm of sound. Follow: https://soundcloud.com/innersha https://www.instagram.com/innersha_/

It's Friday, November 21st, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Christian ethnic cleansing survivors given new homes in Armenia Several families displaced by ethnic cleansing in their ancient Christian homeland more than two years ago were given new homes and plots of land on Tuesday through a charitable initiative seeking to help revitalize a rural Armenian mountain village, reports the Christian Post. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice.” The Tufenkian Foundation has cut the ribbon on a pilot refugee village in Svarants, completing the first 10 of 20 new homes in the upper reaches of Armenia's mountainous Tatev Municipality, which borders Iran and Azerbaijan. The new homes, which come with adjoining plots of land and a barn, were built specifically to help families rebuild their lives around the agricultural and livestock work they were doing before Azerbaijan's 2023 invasion of Nagorno-Karabakh. It's a predominantly Armenian region known affectionately to Armenians as the Republic of Artsakh. After a months-long military blockade, more than 120,000 ethnic Artsakh Armenians were forced from their homes in September 2023, and most have lived for two years throughout Armenia with what Artsakh leaders say has been inadequate social integration.  Judge orders Trump to end National Guard deployment in DC On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb, a Biden appointee, ordered the Trump administration to end its monthslong deployment of National Guard troops to help police the nation's capital, reports the Associated Press. She asserted that President Donald Trump's military takeover in Washington, D.C., illegally intrudes on local officials' authority to direct law enforcement in the district. Trump had said the troops were needed to deal with rampant crime and violence in Washington and support federal immigration law enforcement efforts there. Pope Leo met with Illinois' pro-abortion, pro-perversion governor The stream of liberal clergy and scandalous public figures who are given audiences with Pope Leo XIV seemingly never comes to an end. Now comes news that pro-abortion Democratic Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker spoke with Leo for 40 minutes at the Vatican during a private meeting on Wednesday, reports LifeSiteNews.com. In the past, Pritzker has designated Illinois a “sanctuary state” for women seeking abortions, expanded access to chemical abortion pills, and approved policies sexual perversion activists have long desired. To top it off, Pritzker may sign a bill that would legalize physician-assisted suicide. According to Proverbs 6:17, one of seven things that God hates is “hands that shed innocent blood.” A Pritzker spokesman said that the audience with Leo was arranged by pro-homosexual Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich, a man with whom he has had a long friendship. Neither Trump nor Vance not invited to Dick Cheney's funeral Political figures from across the aisle gathered Thursday in Washington, DC, for the funeral of former Vice President Dick Cheney — a key figure of pre-MAGA Republican politics, reports CBS News. The funeral, which was attended by two former presidents and all living former vice presidents, was a bipartisan who's who of Washington dignitaries yet with the notable absence of two of the country's current leaders. Neither President Donald Trump nor Vice President J.D. Vance were invited to the funeral. Cheney received full military honors at the invitation-only memorial service at Washington's National Cathedral. Attendees included former Presidents Joe Biden and George W. Bush, former First Ladies Jill Biden and Laura Bush, as well as former Vice Presidents Kamala Harris, Mike Pence, Al Gore, and Dan Quayle. George W. Bush: Dick Cheney was a serious man Former President George W. Bush eulogized Dick Cheney, his former vice president, as a consummate public servant who could be relied on, and who “lifted the standards” of those around him. BUSH: “In a profession that attracts talkers, Dick Cheney was a thinker and a listener. And when he did speak up, conveying thoughts in that even tone of voice, that orderly, unexcitable manner, you knew you were getting the best of a highly disciplined mind. “No colleague, no legislator, no foreign leader who ever met Dick Cheney ever doubted that they were dealing with a serious man.” Cheney, who served as Bush's vice president from 2001 to 2009, died on November 3 at the age of 84. Prior to being elected vice president, Cheney served as defense secretary, White House chief of staff, and as a congressman representing Wyoming. Texas Governor slams judge who blocked redistricting map Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott slammed the El Paso federal judge, a 2019 Trump nominee, who once worked for Abbott, for authoring the decision that blocked the state's congressional redistricting map that President Donald Trump wanted ahead of next year's elections, reports the San Antonio Express-News. ​In an appearance on Fox News, Abbott said a previous redistricting decision by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey Brown, who worked for Abbott when he was a Texas Supreme Court justice in the 1990s, was overturned last year. ABBOTT: “Judge Brown, who wrote that opinion, he was just reversed last year in a different redistricting decision. He was wrong last year. He's wrong this year. I have never seen an opinion so erroneous in its writing. That's something that the United States Supreme Court, I think, is just not going to tolerate.” ​Abbott said he is “confident” that the U.S. Supreme Court will side with Texas and allow the new map, which gives Republicans five more winnable seats, to be used in the 2026 midterm elections. The case has major ramifications for control of the U.S. House during the final two years of Trump's presidency. Republicans currently hold a five-seat majority in the U.S. House. If Democrats retake control of the chamber, they would have the power to stop all major legislation Trump wants passed and would be able to hold hearings to investigate the administration's policy decisions and actions. British shoe cobbler victorious in David vs. Goliath battle And finally, a British shoe cobbler in Gloucestershire, England, named Alan Macdonald, has been happily repairing shoes for thirty years at Macdonald Traditional Cobbler. MACDONALD: “Well, my father was a cobbler and my grandfather was a cobbler. So, I've been around probably since I was about five. I think my father had me doing work.” Recently, a corporate shoe repair chain wanted to open a location right across the street. Local citizens signed a petition to protect Alan McDonald, reports GoodNewsNetwork.org. The petition to reject the corporate newcomer collected 1,000 signatures from people in the area through social media, including the local Parliament member. MACDONALD: “You know, I hadn't expected this swell of support that's happened as a result of this application. I mean, I just was not expecting that.” A United Kingdom grocery chain Tesco had submitted a planning application together with another chain called Timpson, to open a new location of one of their bizarre service centers that offered combinations of dry cleaning, watch repair, key duplication, photo printing, engraving, portraiture, and shoe repair. To Macdonald's delight, when the corporate application for its new location was due to be discussed at a parish council meeting, Tesco confirmed it would not be moving forward.  However, it failed to specify whether or not the petition drive led to their decision. MACDONALD: “It was quite a worry to be honest. You know, I don't make a massive amount of money. I mean, only a small amount taken away from the income that I make here would make it very difficult to survive, to be honest.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, November 21st, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.