Podcasts about Central Asia

What does it mean, three decades after the demise of the USSR, to inhabit cities built for a future that has never arrived? In pursuit of the question—what is left of the socialist city?—this book aims not only to trace the material and mnemonic remains of the socialist city,  but to show how the Soviet discourse of the city at times engendered radical ideas that challenged the narrow confines of state socialism itself. These ideas are, for instance, the efforts of Esperanto-speaking internationalists from Czechoslovakia to build the internationalist city from below in the Central Asian steppe, the quest of Armenian Futurists to root the architectural style of Soviet Armenia in the country's Persianate heritage, or a Jewish-Kyrgyz philosopher's vision of turning a science town in the hinterland of Moscow into the first ecopolis of the USSR. In an effort to rethink the life and afterlife of the Soviet city from its geographical South, The Death and Life of Southern Soviet Cities: Urban Futures and Their Afterlives (Routledge, 2026) explores the material and immaterial legacies of socialist-era urbanization in Central Asia and the Southern Caucasus. To this end, it embarks on a historical and ethnographic journey to urban sites in Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. In a quest to reconstruct competing visions of urbanity that emerged from within the Soviet South, using varied empirical sources in Armenian, Czech, Kyrgyz, and Russian, the book outlines four urban visions: bottom-up urbanity, rooted urbanity, polycentric urbanity, and ecocentric urbanity. By understanding the social vision of a "socialist city of the future" beyond the political center in its trans-local independence, the book highlights the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Soviet South and its historical embeddedness within the regional dynamics of the Global South. David Leupold is a sociologist, scholar of memory wars and research fellow in the ERC-funded research project REVENANT: Revivals of Empire. He is the author of the prize-winning book Embattled Dreamlands: The Politics of Contesting Armenian, Turkish, and Kurdish Memory (2021), the former principal investigator of the DFG-funded research project Future Images of the Past (2021–2025), and a current resource scholar for the Monterey Initiative in Russian Studies (Middlebury Institute of International Studies). He lives in Berlin.  This interview was conducted by Ernest Lee, PhD student at the University of Chicago. He researches the history of postcolonial energy through the lens of development, infrastructure and environment, with a focus on West Africa and Southeast Asia.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

What does it mean, three decades after the demise of the USSR, to inhabit cities built for a future that has never arrived? In pursuit of the question—what is left of the socialist city?—this book aims not only to trace the material and mnemonic remains of the socialist city,  but to show how the Soviet discourse of the city at times engendered radical ideas that challenged the narrow confines of state socialism itself. These ideas are, for instance, the efforts of Esperanto-speaking internationalists from Czechoslovakia to build the internationalist city from below in the Central Asian steppe, the quest of Armenian Futurists to root the architectural style of Soviet Armenia in the country's Persianate heritage, or a Jewish-Kyrgyz philosopher's vision of turning a science town in the hinterland of Moscow into the first ecopolis of the USSR. In an effort to rethink the life and afterlife of the Soviet city from its geographical South, The Death and Life of Southern Soviet Cities: Urban Futures and Their Afterlives (Routledge, 2026) explores the material and immaterial legacies of socialist-era urbanization in Central Asia and the Southern Caucasus. To this end, it embarks on a historical and ethnographic journey to urban sites in Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. In a quest to reconstruct competing visions of urbanity that emerged from within the Soviet South, using varied empirical sources in Armenian, Czech, Kyrgyz, and Russian, the book outlines four urban visions: bottom-up urbanity, rooted urbanity, polycentric urbanity, and ecocentric urbanity. By understanding the social vision of a "socialist city of the future" beyond the political center in its trans-local independence, the book highlights the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Soviet South and its historical embeddedness within the regional dynamics of the Global South. David Leupold is a sociologist, scholar of memory wars and research fellow in the ERC-funded research project REVENANT: Revivals of Empire. He is the author of the prize-winning book Embattled Dreamlands: The Politics of Contesting Armenian, Turkish, and Kurdish Memory (2021), the former principal investigator of the DFG-funded research project Future Images of the Past (2021–2025), and a current resource scholar for the Monterey Initiative in Russian Studies (Middlebury Institute of International Studies). He lives in Berlin.  This interview was conducted by Ernest Lee, PhD student at the University of Chicago. He researches the history of postcolonial energy through the lens of development, infrastructure and environment, with a focus on West Africa and Southeast Asia.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/russian-studies

David Hunsicker spent two decades at USAID building the institutional capacity for what came to be called Strategic Religious Engagement. That work culminated in the 2023 policy Building Bridges in Development, a framework for partnering with religious communities and faith-based organizations around shared goals. In this conversation, Hunsicker traces the path from a Pennsylvania Dutch upbringing, through conversion to Islam and graduate study in Central Asia, to an unexpected pull into US government work after September 11. We discuss the policy work that followed, what was lost when USAID was closed in 2025, and the new Strategic Religious Engagement Hub at Georgetown's Berkley Center. Show Notes:Building Bridges in Development: USAID's Strategic Religious Engagement Policy (https://berkleycenter.georgetown.edu/publications/building-bridges-in-development-usaid-s-strategic-religious-engagement-policy/)Send us Fan Mail

What does it mean, three decades after the demise of the USSR, to inhabit cities built for a future that has never arrived? In pursuit of the question—what is left of the socialist city?—this book aims not only to trace the material and mnemonic remains of the socialist city,  but to show how the Soviet discourse of the city at times engendered radical ideas that challenged the narrow confines of state socialism itself. These ideas are, for instance, the efforts of Esperanto-speaking internationalists from Czechoslovakia to build the internationalist city from below in the Central Asian steppe, the quest of Armenian Futurists to root the architectural style of Soviet Armenia in the country's Persianate heritage, or a Jewish-Kyrgyz philosopher's vision of turning a science town in the hinterland of Moscow into the first ecopolis of the USSR. In an effort to rethink the life and afterlife of the Soviet city from its geographical South, The Death and Life of Southern Soviet Cities: Urban Futures and Their Afterlives (Routledge, 2026) explores the material and immaterial legacies of socialist-era urbanization in Central Asia and the Southern Caucasus. To this end, it embarks on a historical and ethnographic journey to urban sites in Armenia and Kyrgyzstan. In a quest to reconstruct competing visions of urbanity that emerged from within the Soviet South, using varied empirical sources in Armenian, Czech, Kyrgyz, and Russian, the book outlines four urban visions: bottom-up urbanity, rooted urbanity, polycentric urbanity, and ecocentric urbanity. By understanding the social vision of a "socialist city of the future" beyond the political center in its trans-local independence, the book highlights the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Soviet South and its historical embeddedness within the regional dynamics of the Global South. David Leupold is a sociologist, scholar of memory wars and research fellow in the ERC-funded research project REVENANT: Revivals of Empire. He is the author of the prize-winning book Embattled Dreamlands: The Politics of Contesting Armenian, Turkish, and Kurdish Memory (2021), the former principal investigator of the DFG-funded research project Future Images of the Past (2021–2025), and a current resource scholar for the Monterey Initiative in Russian Studies (Middlebury Institute of International Studies). He lives in Berlin.  This interview was conducted by Ernest Lee, PhD student at the University of Chicago. He researches the history of postcolonial energy through the lens of development, infrastructure and environment, with a focus on West Africa and Southeast Asia.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

Hear about travel to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan and the annual Amateur Traveler trip as host Chris Christensen and guest Bill Abbott talk about a tour to 2 of the 5 'Stans in Central Asia. This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Why should you go to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan? Chris says, "In this area, you can stand in these beautiful cities that date back over two thousand years. This is a trip through some of the great crossroads of world history: Persian empires, Silk Road merchants, Turkic tribes, Mongol armies, Timurid architects, Russian generals, Soviet planners, and two very different modern countries. This is not the edge of the map as we tend to view it, but historically, it's the middle of the map." In this episode of Amateur Traveler, we celebrate episode 1,000 with a trip through Central Asia to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. The episode follows a G Adventures trip, Best of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, with a small group of Amateur Traveler listeners. ... https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-uzbekistan-and-turkmenistan/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hi, I'm John Sorensen, President of Evangelism Explosion International, and you're listening to Share Life Today. As we conclude this week talking about the church globally and how we're called to go to the nations, I wanted to share a testimony with you from a challenging part of the world. Made up of the former Soviet Union and most of the Middle East, Central Asia is a region where persecution happens almost every day to Christ-followers. And yet, God is moving mightily in these countries. For instance, in a small village in Lebanon, a family heard the Gospel from a team of Christians who knocked on their door. The husband, the wife, and all the children gave their hearts to Christ that day. And the villagers were not pleased and began persecuting them heavily. However, God used these same Christians who led the family to Christ to share with the villagers also, and their minds were changed. So let's be encouraged today to step out ourselves and to share the Gospel. You can learn more about how you can share your faith at ShareLife.Today. That's ShareLife.Today.

Max and Maria sit down with Dr. Nina Khrushcheva, Professor of International Affairs at the New School and one of the world's leading experts on Russia, to discuss her new Russian‑language book Nikita Khrushchev: Vozhd vne sistemy (“Nikita Khrushchev: An Outlier of the System”) and her experience as one of the few scholars still traveling to and from Russia. As Nikita Khrushchev's great‑granddaughter and adoptive granddaughter, she offers a rare, personal view of how Russian culture, politics, and society are evolving. Mentioned:  No Exit from Stalin | by Nina L. Khrushcheva in Project Syndicate (April 2026)  Russia's Descent Into Tyranny: How Four Years of War Have Remade Society | by Nina L. Khrushcheva in Foreign Affairs (Dec. 2025)  Nikita Khrushchev: Vozhd vne sistemy (Nikita Khrushchev: An Outlier of the System) | Book by Nina L. Khrushcheva  Feedback? Suggestions? Ideas to help us improve? Email us at erep@csis.org.  If you love Russian Roulette, let us know by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Listen to our sister podcast, covering all things Europe through a Washington lens: CSIS Podcasts | The Eurofile 

Today's HeadlinesFreedom for some, continued struggles for many in NigeriaAs war displaces Lebanese families, SAT-7 reminds children: ‘You Are Not Alone'Summer Bible Camps launch in 13 countries to reach thousands of kids

Think the Black Death was just a medieval European tragedy? Think again.When you picture the Black Death, you probably imagine a third of Europe being wiped out while flagellants marched through British and French villages. But pandemics don't stop at borders. What if our standard history lessons have completely ignored more than half of the story?In this special episode for the Chalke History Festival, host Paul Bavill sits down with Tom Asbridge, Reader in Medieval History at Queen Mary University of London and author of The Black Death, a Global History. Together, they shatter the Euro-centric myths to reveal a truly global disaster that stretched from Central Asia all the way across the medieval world.Discover how the plague reshaped the wealthy and sophisticated Mamluk Empire. Massive Middle Eastern cities like Cairo—which completely dwarfed London with a population of half a million people—faced unimaginable mass mortality. Tom explains the fascinating doctrinal differences that dictated survival; while Christian Europe viewed the disease as divine punishment that justified flight and abandonment, Islamic doctrine saw it as a merciful martyrdom. This completely altered how communities reacted, locked down, and ultimately collapsed under the weight of the pandemic.From the horrific eyewitness accounts of parents burying their own children to the long-term socioeconomic shifts that triggered peasant revolts and altered workers' rights, this episode zooms out to a global scale and zooms in on the raw human experience. If you want to understand the true scale of history's most terrifying disease, hit play now!About Our GuestTom Asbridge is a professional historian, author, and Reader in Medieval History at Queen Mary University of London.See Tom Live: Catch Tom speaking at the Chalke History Festival on Friday 26th June at 4:00 PM. Grab your tickets at: https://www.chalkefestival.com/Buy the Book: Get your copy of The Black Death, a Global History directly from the History Rage Bookshop to support the show: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780241399408Recommended Episodes To Check Out NextEpisode 193: Luke Pepera rages that there is an African history long before any Europeans turned up.Episode 143: Eleanor Janega brings the rage to prove that medieval women absolutely worked.Support and Follow History RageIf you love truth being freed and myth getting a long, slow, brutal death, help us keep the anger alive!Support us on Patreon: Join the inner circle for £5 a month to get entry into our monthly book draws, pitch questions to future guests, access live streams, and grab the coveted History Rage mug: https://www.patreon.com/historyrageFollow us on Twitter/X: https://x.com/HistoryRageVisit our Website: Get the latest updates and episodes directly at https://www.historyrage.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Comments/ideas: ACFpod@outlook.comChina's carbon market is already the world's largest, and it's about to get far more complex. Leading market expert Jeff Huang has a front-row seat to what's coming: absolute emissions caps replacing the old intensity targets, carbon auctioning arriving in steel, cement and aluminium, and Hong Kong quietly positioning itself as the trading hub that connects all of it to global markets. If you're watching how carbon pricing shapes capital flows and CBAM compliance, this episode is worth your time.Reference: AEX Holdings. Op-ed sample - Beyond critical mass (China Daily, 16 January 2026)ABOUT JEFF: Jeff Huang is founder & CEO of AEX Markets based in Hong Kong. He is former Managing Director Greater China of the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), VP Asia for Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX), and was appointed Chief Advisor for Chongqing Gas Exchange. He's also founder of AsiaREC Limited, a non-profit carbon standard in Hong Kong. Jeff has more than 10 years of experience in cross-border M&A, Joint Ventures and futures markets in the United States, covering spaces including exchanges, futures companies, financial software infrastructure, etc. Prominent deals he has led include the creation of the Tianjin Climate Exchange (a joint venture between CCX and CNPC/PetroChina), forming a JV for futures brokerage between Citic and Calyon (SocGen) and a fintech acquisition for SunGard.Recommendation: The Great Game by Peter Hopkirk: A gripping historical account of the 19th-century imperial rivalry between the British and Russian empires as they vied for supremacy in Central Asia.HOST, PRODUCTION, ARTWORK: Joseph Jacobelli  |  MUSIC: Ep76 onward excerpts from Vivaldi's La Follia, played by Luca Jacobelli.

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Richard is joined by Barrie Harrop. Barrie shares his thoughts on why advanced volumetric modular construction represents a crucial step in how affordable housing can be delivered in Australia. They discuss why conventional construction methods are no longer equal to the scale of the problem, and how a factory-based approach to building can deliver quality housing faster and more affordably than anything currently available in the Australian market.They also explore the concept of air rights and the significant untapped opportunity sitting above underutilised commercial buildings across Australia's capital cities. Barrie explains how lightweight modular construction makes this opportunity newly viable and outlines the collaborative research programme underway with Western Sydney University to map and scale this approach across Australia. The episode concludes with Barrie's views on government policy, the compliance challenges facing innovative construction methods, and why he believes the industry cannot wait for policy to catch up. About Our GuestBarrie Harrop is Executive Chairman of Thrive Construct, which he co-founded with architect Peter Billis to deliver affordable, high-quality housing through advanced volumetric modular construction. With a distinguished career spanning more than four decades and crossing continents, Barrie was the project initiator behind Melbourne Central, one of the country's most significant urban renewal projects, created Australia's first food court at Gallerie Food Affair Gawler Place, Adelaide, and was instrumental in launching R.M. Williams into their first CBD store in the world. The R.M. Williams StoryR.M. Williams story of growth began when Barrie met the late John Swain in his tin-shed office. He presented to the previous majority shareholder, the late John Swain, in the late 70s, at their modest tin-shed workshop in Percy Street, Prospect, South Australia, where 15 artisans crafted boots, saddles, whips and belts (today over 1,500 craft people make RM Williams boots).Barrie's goal was to persuade Mr Swain to open the first R.M. Williams Capital City retail store as the anchor tenant at The Gallerie. Though initially unconvinced, believing his market was limited to rural customers, Barrie presented an underwritten proposal to bring R.M. Williams to city consumers with a new brand that was more relevant to this target market, paving the way for its evolution into one of the world's leading handmade bootmakers and an enduring Australian icon.Barrie also served for 16 years as a board advisor to the Industrial Bank of Japan (IBJ). More recently, Barrie led the masterplanning of a new city for 400,000 people in Central Asia, an experience of building at extraordinary scale that now underpins Thrive's joint venture with China State Construction.Tune into the EpisodeIf you're interested in understanding how advanced volumetric construction could reshape housing delivery in Australia, and what a truly scalable solution to the affordability crisis might look like, this is a must-listen episode. Barrie's breadth of experience makes for a very compelling discussion. EPISODE LINKSBarrie HarropThrive ConstructLarge Scale Project Development ExperienceWe'd love your feedback, send us a message today.LET'S CONNECTSubscribeInstagram Website LinkedIn Email > podcast@charterkc.com.au   This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered investment or financial advice. This podcast is not intended to replace or supplement professional investment, financial or legal advice. Please seek professional advice based upon your personal circumstances. The views expressed by our podcast guests may not represent those of Charter Keck Cramer. This podcast may not be copied, reproduced, republished or posted in whole or in part without the prior written consent of Charter Keck Cramer.

For 18 years Ron poured his life into the people of Central Asia, helping them to release worship music in their own indigenous language. On this conversation James talks with Ron about the power of worship in connection to the Great Commission. Find out more about YWAM Furnace below

Whistling Arrows and Heavenly Horses: The Han-Xiongnu War John Ross speaks with Scott Forbes Crawford about his book The Han-Xiongnu War, 133 BC–89 AD. For more than two centuries, Han China fought a bitter struggle against the Xiongnu, a powerful confederation of horse-riding nomads from the Asian steppe. This was far more than a border war. It helped shape the future of China, transformed Central Asia, and opened the routes that would become known as the Silk Road. In writing this history, Scott followed the example of China's greatest historian, Sima Qian (the subject of BOA episode 82), and took a biographical approach. We learn about remarkable figures such as Modun, the ruthless founder of the Xiongnu Empire; Li Guang, the legendary “Flying General”; the explorer Zhang Qian; and Princess Jieyou, a royal diplomat/spy who spent decades advancing Han interests deep in Central Asia. Notes: The full title of Scott Crawford's book is: The Han-Xiongnu War, 133 BC–89 AD: The Struggle of China and a Steppe Empire Told Through Its Key Figures (Pen & Sword, 2023) To learn more about Scott's work, including his novel Silk Road Centurion, visit his website: https://www.scottforbescrawford.com/   The Books on Asia Podcast is co-produced with Plum Rain Press. Podcast host Amy Chavez is author of The Widow, the Priest, and the Octopus Hunter: Discovering a Lost Way of Life on a Secluded Japanese Island. and Amy's Guide to Best Behavior in Japan.The Books on Asia website posts book reviews, podcast episodes and episode Show Notes. Subscribe to the BOA podcast from your favorite podcast service. Subscribe to the Books on Asia newsletter to receive news of the latest new book releases, reviews and podcast episodes.

Ralph Goff is a retired senior CIA officer and former intelligence executive, best known as a six-time CIA Chief of Station with a 35-year career in U.S. intelligence. His overseas service included postings and operational work across Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, and several war zones. He later served as Chief of Operations for Europe and Eurasia and as head of the CIA's National Resources Division, where he worked with senior U.S. private-sector figures in finance, banking, and security.Before joining the CIA, Goff served in the U.S. Army as a Russian linguist and signals intelligence officer on the East German border during the late Cold War, monitoring Soviet forces. After retiring from the CIA in October 2023, he became a public commentator on intelligence, Russia, Ukraine, and great-power competition. He has traveled regularly to Ukraine, met with Ukrainian officials, and argued that Western support for Kyiv has often been too cautious. In a 2025 interview, he said the West had given Ukraine “enough weapons to bleed, not to win,” criticising fear of escalation as a strategic constraint. In 2025, Goff was reportedly selected by CIA Director John Ratcliffe to become Deputy Director for Operations, the post overseeing human intelligence and covert action, but the appointment was later withdrawn. Reporting by Politico and The Washington Post said the reversal surprised many intelligence professionals and was linked by sources to political concerns, including Goff's public support for Ukraine. Today, Goff is known as a forthright advocate for rebuilding U.S. clandestine capabilities, strengthening Western intelligence posture, and supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. His public persona combines old-school operations experience, Atlanticist conviction, and a blunt critique of risk-aversion in Western policy.----------LINKS:https://www.thecipherbrief.com/experts/ralph-goffhttps://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/ex-cia-chief-we-gave-ukraine-enough-weapons-to-bleed-not-to-win-r3q0r2fcghttps://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/02/cia-drops-agency-veteran-clandestine-operations-00267346----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/scaling-up-campaign-to-fight-authoritarian-disinformation----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Car4Ukrainehttps://car4ukraine.com/en-US/campaignsDzyga's Pawhttps://dzygaspaw.com/projectsSuperhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/----------PLATFORMS:Substack: https://substack.com/@siliconcurtainTwitter: https://twitter.com/CurtainSiliconLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjonathan/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6NO7y93zG11JMtqm----------

This is a live show, recorded on stage at the Antique Bar in Melbourne. Joining me on stage were three guests who between them have cycled through some of the most remote, challenging and eye-opening places on earth, Fergal Guihen, Em Hulbert and David McCourt.Fergal cycled from Roscommon, Ireland to Sydney via Mauritania, Iran, Afghanistan, the Tibetan Plateau and beyond. Em Hulbert is mid-journey on a solo ride around the world, delivering water filters to communities in need through her project The Water Cycle. David McCourt set off from Melbourne bound for Northern Ireland, taking a route through Central Asia, Iran, Bangladesh, Nepal and Turkey that took years and produced stories he'll be dining out on forever.In this episode we cover:Going from thought bubble to turning pedalsLuxury items on the bike and what actually earns its placePerceptions versus reality: China, Iran, Bangladesh and ThailandGetting drugged and robbed in the Iranian desertA sex dungeon in rural Thailand at 4am after 250 kilometresThe Nullarbor without music, podcasts or any distraction at allSolo female bicycle travel and the extra layer that comes with itThe spaces in between and why that's where the magic happensWhy the hardest moments are the ones you'd go back and reliveWant to hear the full individual episodes with each guest? Find them here:Em Hulbert: Ep. 127: David McCourt: Ep. 99: and Ep. 120. Fergal Guihen: Ep. 144 and Ep. 145: Follow the guests on Instagram:Em Hulbert: @emhulbertFergal Guihen: @rossi.to.aussieDavid McCourt: @longwayhome__2022 Check out Old Man Mountain's new Manzanita Handlebar Cradle  Support the showBuy me a coffee!I'm an affiliate for a few brands I genuinely use and recommend including:

节目简介｜Episode Description｜エピソード紹介这期节目我跟大家简单聊聊我今年暑假的安排，包括回中国、中亚旅行、北海道旅行，还有暑期网课的计划。因为六、七月到八月初有很多事，《五分钟中文》的更新可能不会像平时那么及时，也希望大家见谅。In this episode, I share my summer plans, including my trip back to China, travels to Central Asia and Hokkaido, and my summer teaching schedule. Since I'll have a lot going on from June through early August, podcast updates may not always be as timely as usual. Thank you for your understanding.今回は、中国への帰国や中央アジア旅行、北海道旅行、そして夏休み中の授業予定について簡単にお話しします。6月、7月から8月初めにかけて予定が多いため、『五分钟中文』の更新がいつもより遅くなることもあるかもしれませんが、ご了承ください。#旅行 #TravelPlan #暑假安排 #Summer #夏休み #暑假计划 Send us Fan MailSupport the show如果您喜欢我的播客，欢迎通过下方方式表达您的支持。您的支持对我来说是巨大的鼓励。但无论如何，我都很感激有您作为听众。能够每周与您分享几分钟的时光，对我来说是莫大的荣幸。❤️If you enjoy my podcast, you're welcome to show your support through the options below. Your support means a great deal to me and is a huge source of encouragement. But no matter what, I'm truly grateful to have you as a listener. It's an honor to share a few minutes with you each week!❤️ ☕

Iran appears increasingly isolated, yet missiles and drones keep flowing. A new China–Iran railway through Central Asia may help explain why. Drawing on years of travel in the region, Eugene examines the corridor, its geopolitical implications, and what it could mean for the future of the Middle East.

03 Jun 2026. Abu Dhabi is freezing all rent hikes until further notice. Tenants signing new leases will pay the same rent as the preceding contract, with residential, commercial and industrial rents all frozen. We get analysis on what that means for the market. The Wegovy weight loss pill is here, with the UAE only the second country in the world to greenlight it. The country is also set to become a hub for Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy production, serving up to 70 countries across the Gulf, Africa and Central Asia. We hear from Executive VP Emil Larsen. Plus, with UAE fuel prices up nearly 66% since February, it’s getting more expensive to transport goods. Could the cost of food go up? We find out with the CEO of Choithrams. And DXB saw a welcome revenue boost from Eid Al Adha travel. We find out what families planning summer travel can expect at the world’s busiest airport.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

① British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has made a three-day China visit. Can China and Britain develop a long-term strategic partnership? (00:54) ② Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee is leading a large delegation on a tour to Central Asia. What is driving Hong Kong to seek closer ties with the region? (15:47) ③ A European Parliament committee has voted to scrap EU import duties on a range of US goods in order to comply with a US-EU trade deal. Why is the EU ready to compromise? (24:53) ④ Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is urging Washington to keep out of her country's domestic affairs. We look at how tensions grow between the US and Mexico over anti-drug cooperation. (34:14) ⑤ From DeepSeek's Liang Wenfeng to Unitree Robotics' Wang Xingxing and AgiBot's Peng Zhihui, a number of young entrepreneurs are becoming central figures in China's next wave of tech innovation. What's driving this new generation of innovators? (43:37)

Deep in the mountains in the heart of Central Asia, an AFM missionary family seeks to share the gospel with the unreached people of this predominantly Hindu and Buddhist region. It's a tall task, but what the Castillo family discovered was that God has already been working on hearts through the influence of the Holy Spirit.                                                               ----------------Today's stories are told by the Castillo family, AFM career missionaries on the Himadri Project in Central Asia. Subscribe and leave us a review if you enjoyed listening to today's story!

Ghost opens episode 109 with the Iran peace deal moving toward signature: a draft plan is on the table, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are proposing a $300 billion investment fund for Iranian reconstruction, and Ghost walks through why this is the Venezuela model playing out in real time, not a Zionist puppet operation. Jim Rickards calls it a game of chicken and says the US blinks first. Ghost dismantles the Washington Examiner's "Abraham Architecture" op-ed as neocon regime change dressed up in platitudes, and reiterates Saudi Arabia's unbreakable red line on Palestine. Ben Gavir declares Israel will not allow any deal, while the US quietly prepares to pull all military aircraft from Ben Gurion within 72 hours of a signing. The episode then pivots to a bombshell: an Israeli state TV documentary exposes ritualistic child sexual abuse in the Gush Etzion West Bank settlement, with survivor testimony describing Knesset members as participants. Ghost connects it to the UN's blacklisting of Israel for prison sexual violence and an Israeli-born US attorney dropping gun charges against an Israeli national running an illegal biolab in Las Vegas. The episode closes with the DRC Ebola outbreak accelerating and Trump's Armenia rail deal revealing the emerging global trade corridor from Central Asia to North America.

Max and Maria welcome Sir Lawrence Freedman, historian, author, and Emeritus Professor of War Studies, King's College London, to discuss the future of the war in Ukraine, how he sees the conflict evolving, and what to expect in the critical months ahead. Is Ukraine winning the drone race? by Sir Lawrence Freedman  Link to Substack: Comment is Freed   Thoughts? Guest suggestions? Ideas to help us improve? Email us at erep@csis.org.  If you love Russian Roulette, let us know by subscribing and leaving a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Listen to our sister podcast, covering all things Europe through a Washington lens: CSIS Podcasts | The Eurofile  

Outsourcing podcast Get the full show notes for this outsourcing podcast here: outsourceaccelerator.com/590   Frank Prempeh, CEO of Corpshore Solutions, returned to the Outsource Accelerator Podcast to discuss the BPO's expansion into Uzbekistan, where it became the first Canadian outsourcing firm to set up. From the country's deeply multilingual workforce to AI-driven demand for non-English data annotation, Frank lays out a clear case for Central Asia as the next major outsourcing destination.   References: Website: https://corpshore.solutions/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/corpshore-solutions   Start Outsourcing Outsource Accelerator can help you transform your business with outsourcing. Get in touch now, or use one of the resources below.   Business Process Outsourcing Get a Free Quote - Connect with 3 verified outsourcing experts & see how outsourcing can transform your business Book a Discovery Call - See how Outsource Accelerator can help you enhance your company's innovation and growth with outsourcing The Top 40 BPOs - We have compiled this review of the most notable 40 Business Process Outsourcing companies in the Philippines Outsourcing Calculator - This tool provides you with invaluable insight into the potential savings outsourcing can do for your business Outsourcing Salary Guide - Access the comprehensive guide to payroll salary compensation, benefits, and allowances in the Philippines Outsourcing Accelerator Podcast - Subscribe and listen to the world's leading outsourcing podcast, hosted by Derek Gallimore Payoneer - The leading global B2B payment solution for the outsourcing industry   About Outsource Accelerator Outsource Accelerator is the world's leading outsourcing marketplace and advisory. We offer the full spectrum of services, from light advisory and vendor brokerage, though to full implementation and fully-managed solutions. We service companies of all sectors, and all sizes, spanning all departmental verticals. Outsource Accelerator's unique approach to outsourcing enables our clients to build the best teams, access the most flexible solutions, and generate the best results possible. Our unrivaled sector knowledge and market reach mean that you get the best terms and results possible, at the best ALL-IN market-leading price - guaranteed.

Is Kazakhstan entering a new political era or consolidating authoritarian rule under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev?In this episode of Talk Eastern Europe's Deep Dive, Alexandra Karppi speaks with journalist and researcher Paolo Sorbello about Kazakhstan's controversial constitutional referendum and what it could mean for the country's future.The discussion explores the restructuring of parliament, the return of the vice presidency, concerns over centralization of power, restrictions on civil society and media, and the broader geopolitical balancing act between Russia, China, Europe and the United States.Paolo Sorbello is the English-language editor at Vlast.kz and has covered Central Asia for nearly two decades. ABOUT THIS PODCASTWe publish twice weekly:- Every Tuesday: Expert Interviews featuring deep dives withleading analysts, journalists, and scholars- Every Friday: Weekly News Roundup with essential updatesand commentary on the latest developmentsRead the New Eastern Europe Magazine Bimonthly publication with exclusive long-form analysis. →Become a member: https://neweasterneurope.eu/become-a-member-of-new-eastern-europe/Support us on PatreonJoin our community for bonus content, early access,behind-the-scenes insights, and access to our exclusive WhatsApp group where we discuss the news in real-time. → Join the Talk Eastern Europe community: https://www.patreon.com/talkeasterneuropeBrief Eastern Europe NewsletterWeekly briefing sent out every Monday with news updates,expert commentary, and our editorial picks - free to your inbox. → Subscribe: https://briefeasterneurope.eu/subscribeFree ArticlesRead our latest analysis at neweasterneurope.euFOLLOW USInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/neweasterneuropemag/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewEasternEurope/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-eastern-europe/

Digital finance is no longer only about banking apps and payments.It is becoming a question of infrastructure, trust, customer behaviour, and how financial systems evolve in emerging markets.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Nika Kurdiani, CEO of TBC Uzbekistan, joins the show for a sharp conversation on digital banking, AI, open banking, and why Uzbekistan is becoming one of the most interesting financial markets to watch.Nika explains how TBC built one of the largest digital financial ecosystems in Central Asia, why customer experience matters more than legacy banking scale, and how AI is bringing the relationship manager back into the app.From cash economies and digital adoption to regulation, ecosystem strategy, and the future of financial services, this episode explores what happens when fast-growing markets leapfrog traditional banking models.

A regional deep dive exploring how Uzbekistan can anchor an Islamic investment and capital-raising corridor across Central Asia. The session highlights opportunities for regional cross-border trade and capital flows, infrastructure financing, investment partnerships, and the policy measures needed to elevate Uzbekistan's competitiveness as an Islamic finance and capital market hub in the New Asia economic landscape.Moderator:Dr Adnan Aziz, Managing Director, Inclusive Resource ManagementPanelists:Alisher Djumanov, Managing Partner, AD WealthDiyor Isroilov, Head of Investor Center Coordination Unit, Ministry of Investment, Industryand Trade of the Republic of UzbekistanJames Sadler, Head of Debt Capital Markets and Structured Finance, Banking and Corporate Finance, Oman Investment BankLeah Weldon-Evans, Head of Islamic Capital Markets and Structuring, Simmons & Simmons Middle EastUlan Abylgaziev, Division Manager, Line of Finance Division, Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector

In today's episode of The Quiz, we're blasting off to test your knowledge on everything from legendary Hollywood stars to major moments in American wartime history. Can you answer these? Florida Landmarks: We take a drive down south to look at a famous stretch of highway. What is the reptilian nickname given to the road running straight from Naples to Fort Lauderdale, Florida? Presidential Decisions: We travel back to a pivotal moment in the American Civil War. On November 5, 1862, which commander of the Army of the Potomac did President Abraham Lincoln officially fire? Global Geography: We wrap things up with a trip to Central Asia. Can you name the official capital city of Tajikistan? Play. Share. Listen, with Host of ‘The Rich Zeoli Show,' Rich Zeoli. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it take to bring the gospel where Christ is not yet known—and remain faithful for the long haul? Summary In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson speaks with Janelle Stoops about calling, cost, perseverance, and leadership formation in frontier mission. Drawing from her years in Central Asia and her current leadership with A3, Janelle shares what she has learned about reaching unreached and unengaged people groups, preparing leaders for mission, and cultivating rhythms that sustain faithful service over time. Main Points Calling begins with surrendered obedience. Janelle shares how a sense of calling at age 16 eventually led her to Central Asia as a young missionary. Frontier mission is costly and often slow. Life among unreached people requires perseverance, cultural humility, language learning, and faithful obedience when visible fruit takes time. God is already at work among the unreached. Stories of dreams, visions, digital outreach, and spiritual hunger remind us that mission begins with joining what God is already doing. Prayer must come before strategy. Janelle emphasizes extraordinary prayer as foundational for ministry among unreached and unengaged peoples. Disciple-making should be relational and reproducible. The gospel spreads naturally through families, friendships, local believers, and simple practices that new disciples can carry forward. Leadership must be formed for the long haul. Competence and charisma should never outpace character; healthy leaders need spiritual formation, rhythms of silence and solitude, and wisdom for each season of life.   Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast and share it with a leader, missionary, or young person discerning a call to mission. We'd also love for you to join the conversation in the Lausanne Movement Podcast space on the Lausanne Action Hub, where you can share your thoughts and engage with our podcast community—and if this episode encouraged you, please consider leaving a rating or review so others can discover it too. Guest Bio Janelle Stoops serves as U.S. President of A3, bringing experience in global missions leadership, organizational strategy, and cross-cultural engagement. She previously served with her family as a church planter in Central Asia, later worked with Frontiers in strategic leadership roles, and now helps strengthen A3's work of developing Christlike leaders for mission and multiplication. A3's announcement of her appointment describes her as uniquely qualified to lead its U.S. ministry into its next chapter of growth and impact. Lausanne Movement Podcast Archive The Making of a Leader: How God Forms Character, Calling, and Influence Over a Lifetime with Richard Clinton The Art of Whole Life Mentorship: An Interview with Ole-Magnus Olasfrud Training Christlike Leaders for the Harvest: Preparing Leaders in Every Nation and Every Sector of Society   Links & Resources A3 — Learn more about A3's work developing Christlike leaders who multiply churches and transform communities. A3 Leaders — Explore stories, updates, and resources from A3's global leadership community. Mission Frontiers Article by Janelle Stoops — Janelle's article on using AI tools with wisdom in nonprofit and mission contexts.

After Putin's Beijing visit - long on rhetoric, short on results - I look more broadly as Asia: the limits of the "friendship with no limits" with China, heding with India, and the ebbing of hegemony in Central Asia. In short, everyone is a transactional pragmatist, behind the talk of "all-weather partnerships" and "eternal friendships." But then again, isn't everyone everwhere, these days?The podcast's corporate partner and sponsor is Conducttr, which provides software for innovative and immersive crisis exercises in hybrid warfare, counter-terrorism, civil affairs and similar situations.You can also follow my blog, In Moscow's Shadows, and become one of the podcast's supporting Patrons and gain question-asking rights and access to exclusive extra materials including the (almost-) weekly Govorit Moskva news briefing right here. Support the show

Welcome back to Part 2 of our interview with Andy and Mary Ellen Faust, Canadian Americans who have worked with a mission organization focused on Bible translating for over 20 years. Mary Ellen is a recruiter and missions coach, and Andy is an instructor at the Canada Institute of Linguistics. Separately, they spent many before marriage in former Soviet bloc countries, and then they met in and returned to Central Asia as a young family. Listen to their stories of what they thought would be a short return to Canada that turned into 16 years.See photos of our guests and sign up for our email list at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠roundtripstories.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow @roundtripstoriespodcast on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Producers for MMO #219   Associate Executive Producers Serpent Slithered his way to the AEP spot   Fiat Fun Coupon Producers Eli the Coffee Guy Trashman Susan A. Nail Lord of Gaylord Praetor Wiirdo of the not so flat lands   Booster Producers phifer

What is God leading you to uniquely do in the discipleship of Him? In this episode, Jeff and Steve discuss:  Developing leaders and allowing God to sow the seeds for what will happen later.  Creating IBAM and the Tiger Medical Institute. Keeping the gospel as the core, no matter the tool of your business.  Realigning with the Kingdom Path.    Key Takeaways:  The outside of something can look fantastic, but the inside may be crumbling. Don't just take what you see at face value.  Discipling is a commitment to walk with Jesus, not just speaking the right words. He calls for us to abide with Him.  Abiding with Jesus does not require a grandiose plan. It requires walking with Him in His way.  There is nothing secular in your life. Every decision and every action you take is sacred.    "If you want to disciple others, you've got to be a disciple yourself." —  Steve Adams   Episode References:  Practicing The Way by John Mark Comer With by Skye Jethani At Work As In Heaven by Scott Ryser Jordan Raynor Books: https://www.jordanraynor.com/books Get Free Access to Third Fish Academy: https://www.thirdfish.org/   About Steve Adams: Steve Adams is the Founder and CEO of IBAM (International Business As Mission), a global movement equipping Christian entrepreneurs to launch redemptive businesses that fuel church planting, disciple-making, and sustainable poverty alleviation. After leaving a successful corporate banking career at God's urging, Steve built a company to $100M in revenue — then redirected that operating discipline toward Kingdom impact. A 2004 mission trip to Bangkok ignited a calling that would reshape his life. Over the next decade, Steve helped plant 30 churches and witnessed 1,500 new believers come to Christ. But something was missing. As a businessman, he couldn't see himself working as a traditional missionary in a way that used his particular strengths. A business-driven mission trip to Russia in 2007 changed everything — training local believers to start sustainable businesses as platforms for discipleship showed him the power of entrepreneurship as a mission. In 2014, Steve launched IBAM and built the Three Fish Model: Give a Fish (startup loans), Teach to Fish (biblical entrepreneur training), and Equip for Discipleship. Today, IBAM operates across multiple countries in Africa, Asia, and Central Asia, with indigenous master trainers replicating the model locally. Biblical business training has raised loan repayment rates from roughly 40% to over 90%, proving that every dollar creates a flywheel — not a one-time handout. Steve also hosts the IBAM Biblical Entrepreneurship Show, a weekly podcast inspiring faith-driven entrepreneurs worldwide. His long-term vision: a business-as-mission practitioner in every village and one million entrepreneurs discipling nations through business. Learn more at www.ibam.org   Connect with Steve Adams: Website: http://www.ibam.org/  Website: https://www.tigermi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iBAM-org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-l-adams/ Twitter: https://x.com/ibamtoday Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/internationalbusinessasmission Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibamtoday/     Connect with Jeff Thomas:  Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/ Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/ Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up Email: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Our guests today are Andy and Mary Ellen Faust, Canadian Americans who have worked with a mission organization focused on Bible translating for over 20 years. Mary Ellen is a recruiter and missions coach, and Andy is an instructor at the Canada Institute of Linguistics. Separately, they spent many years before marriage in former Soviet bloc countries, and then they met in and returned to Central Asia as a young family. Listen to Part 1 of Andy and Mary Ellen's stories, from when the locals celebrated as Andy and Mary Ellen met at an international church in Uzbekistan to when they moved to neighboring Kyrgyzstan to help with a translation project. With toddlers in tow and making two international moves, the needs of the family became greater than just finding alternative flour sources.See photos of our guests and sign up for our email list at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠roundtripstories.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow @roundtripstoriespodcast on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Join us for a Global Wind Report 2026 special looking at the critical role of the workforce in enabling wind deployment at scale. Neil Mellin and Katy Hall from NES Fircroft reveal how expanding talent access and fostering diversity can accelerate offshore wind projects and unlock untapped markets worldwide. The panel also discuss the critical importance of predictable project pipelines for attracting the right talent, especially in emerging markets like APAC and Central Asia. Discover how targeted pathways, apprenticeship programs, and community engagement are shaping the future of offshore wind's workforce, bringing fresh perspectives from regions historically underrepresented in energy.We break down:Why the offshore wind industry faces a skills bottleneck in HV electrical technicians and how to overcome itThe role of diversity and inclusion in expanding the talent pool — from gender to regional representation— and why it's a strategic advantageInnovative strategies NES Fircroft employs, such as returnship programs and Indigenous community collaborations, to build long-term local capacityHow stable policies, long-term project certainty, and partner-led community initiatives are vital for industry growthThe fascinating link between renewable energy expansion and regional economic development, and how inclusive recruitment can catalyze this processWith Katy Hall, Global Head of Diversity, NES Fircroft and Neil Mellin, Regional Business Development Director - Renewables, NES FircroftGWEC's Offshore Wind Podcast is hosted by Stewart Mullin, GWEC's Chief Industry Officer, and Rebecca Williams, GWEC's Deputy CEO, who leads on all GWEC's Offshore Wind work.The podcast, or 'show' as Stewart still likes to call it, features leading voices from across the sector, whether that is large OEMs, key supply chain manufacturers or political leaders driving policy, to talk about how we can all work together to deliver on offshore wind's enormous potential.Follow Stewart on LinkedIn hereFollow Rebecca on LinkedIn here and Instagram hereFollow GWEC on LinkedIn here and Instagram here

This week, Dr John Quinn joins Aebhric O'Kelly to discuss the emerging field of Damage Control Procedures (DCP) for austere, prolonged, and contested environments.Dr Quinn explores the growing operational gap between Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) and definitive surgical care, particularly in Ukraine and other high-threat environments where evacuation delays can extend for days. The discussion covers the development of DCP curricula, governance challenges, telemedicine oversight, surgical skills for non-surgeons, and the operational realities driving innovation in prolonged casualty care.The episode also examines lessons learned from Ukraine, the future of austere procedural medicine, and how modern conflict is reshaping medical doctrine across NATO and partner nations. Chapters00:05 – Introduction to Dr John Quinn and current operational work00:39 – Volunteering in Ukraine and advancing damage control resuscitation01:20 – What are Damage Control Procedures (DCP)?02:01 – The gap between TCCC and definitive surgery03:25 – Why delayed evacuation changes medical doctrine04:29 – Surgical skills for paramedics, nurses, and combat medics05:20 – Governance and legal challenges surrounding DCP06:26 – How surgeons may react to DCP concepts07:16 – Telemedicine oversight and surgeon mentorship in austere care09:11 – Surgical expertise shaping the DCP curriculum10:08 – Overview of the DCP programme structure11:16 – Tier 1 skills: surgical airways, thoracostomy, tourniquet conversion, traumatic amputations12:43 – Tier 2 skills: laparotomy, external fixation, fasciotomy, advanced burns14:29 – Tier 3 concepts: burr holes and REBOA15:47 – Future concepts: haemofiltration and advanced austere ICU care18:22 – Why DCP sounds controversial — and why it may still be necessary19:16 – Telemedicine vs autonomous procedural decision-making22:05 – Clinical governance and parallels with paramedic evolution23:38 – Why basic life support remains foundational25:35 – Historical parallels with early paramedic medicine26:36 – Expansion of chest tube and intraosseous use in Ukraine30:11 – What happens next for the DCP pathway?31:24 – The importance of listening to Ukrainian clinicians32:21 – DCP beyond special operations medicine33:32 – Introduction to the Disaster Health Institute (DHI)35:37 – Bridging strategic and operational medicine36:17 – SOF Combat Medical Conference (CMC) discussion38:19 – Upcoming RCSEd webinar on DCP39:30 – Lessons learned from Ukrainian workshops and role-zero care41:40 – Drone warfare, attacks on medical personnel, and evacuation challenges43:18 – Why Ukrainian medics are requesting Tier 1 and Tier 2 DCP capability45:18 – Upcoming DCP workshop at Medicine in the Mediterranean46:31 – Advice for clinicians entering austere medicine50:27 – AI, education, digital twins, and the future of medical contentGuest bioDr John Quinn is an operational clinician, researcher, and educator working across prehospital care, austere medicine, disaster health, and military medicine. Originally trained as a paramedic, he later completed both medical and doctoral training and now works clinically within the United Kingdom while supporting medical projects and training initiatives in Ukraine.Dr. Quinn is involved in the development of Damage Control Procedures curricula and collaborates with international subject matter experts, surgeons, and operational clinicians to improve prolonged casualty care capability in contested environments.Disaster Health Institute is a collaborative network focused on disaster health, operational medicine, epidemiology, humanitarian response, and strategic healthcare preparedness. The organisation works with subject matter experts across Europe, North America, Central Asia, Africa, and South America to develop evidence-informed approaches to modern operational health challenges.

Max and Maria welcome back Dr. Sam Greene, professor of Russian Politics at King's College London, to discuss the state of Russian public opinion today, and whether domestic conditions have begun change given the state of the economy, war, and reports of increasing paranoia in the Kremlin. 

Today's episode is an "on the ground" recording made by LMPC's team that recently visited ministry partners in Central Asia. Pastors Brian Salter and Wil Nettleton, joined by Tripp Johnston and Keith Michaels, sat down together in Baku, Azerbaijan to record this conversation and reflect on what they've seen during this trip.Please plan to join us at LMPC on May 17th at 6:00 P.M. for a full report about this trip.Host: Brian SalterSpecial Guests: Wil Nettleton, Tripp Johnston, & Keith MichaelsProducer: Ben WingardMusic arranged by David Henry and performed by David Henry and Hannah Lutz.To contact Pillar & Ground or to submit a question that you would like to hear addressed on a future episode, please email podcast@lmpc.org.  

BUFFALO, NY – May 13, 2026 – A new #casereport was #published in Volume 17 of Oncotarget on May 4, 2026, titled “Laryngeal leiomyosarcoma: A rare case report and literature review.” The study was led by first author Bolat Shalabaev and corresponding author Zhuldyz Kuanysh, both from the National Research Oncology Center, Astana, Kazakhstan. In this report, the authors describe a rare case of high-grade laryngeal leiomyosarcoma (LLMS) in a 64-year-old man who presented with progressive dyspnea and hoarseness caused by a large supraglottic mass. Laryngeal leiomyosarcoma is an exceptionally uncommon malignant tumor of smooth muscle origin, with fewer than 70 cases reported worldwide since it was first described in 1939. Because most laryngeal malignancies are epithelial tumors such as squamous cell carcinoma, diagnosis of LLMS can be particularly challenging and requires extensive histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation. Imaging studies revealed a heterogeneous laryngeal tumor causing near-complete obstruction of the airway. Histopathological analysis demonstrated high-grade spindle-cell proliferation with marked pleomorphism and pathological mitoses. Immunohistochemical testing showed strong expression of smooth muscle actin (SMA) and vimentin, while markers including CD34, myogenin, cytokeratins 5/6 and 7, and p40 were negative, supporting the diagnosis of high-grade pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma. The patient underwent extended laryngectomy with left neck dissection and formation of a permanent tracheostomy. Comprehensive staging with CT, MRI, and ultrasound showed no evidence of regional or distant metastases. Due to the tumor's aggressive pathological features—including a Ki-67 proliferation index reaching 60%—the multidisciplinary tumor board recommended adjuvant chemotherapy with doxorubicin and ifosfamide following surgery. “Complete surgical excision remains the cornerstone of therapy, while multidisciplinary-guided adjuvant treatment may benefit selected high-grade or high-risk patients.” Postoperative pathology confirmed a high-grade pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma classified as pT3N0M0 according to the AJCC 8th edition staging system. Importantly, surgical margins were negative, and no metastatic involvement was identified in the five examined lymph nodes. At the most recent follow-up, 12 months after surgery and completion of chemotherapy, the patient remained alive and free of recurrence or metastasis. The authors also reviewed recently published LLMS cases reported between 2021 and 2024. Their analysis confirmed persistent male predominance, frequent involvement of the glottic and supraglottic regions, and highly variable clinical outcomes ranging from long-term disease-free survival to rapid metastatic progression. The report further highlights the central role of immunohistochemistry in differentiating leiomyosarcoma from other spindle-cell neoplasms of the head and neck. Importantly, the study emphasizes that complete surgical resection with histologically negative margins remains the most important factor associated with favorable outcomes. While the role of chemotherapy in laryngeal leiomyosarcoma remains controversial, the authors note that individualized multidisciplinary treatment approaches may be particularly valuable in patients with high-grade or high-risk disease features. Overall, this report contributes important clinical insight into one of the rarest malignancies of the larynx. As the first documented case of laryngeal leiomyosarcoma reported from Central Asia, the study expands the limited global literature on this disease and underscores the importance of coordinated multidisciplinary care, detailed pathological evaluation, and long-term surveillance in optimizing patient outcomes. DOI - https://doi.org/10.18632/oncotarget.28862 Correspondence to - Zhuldyz Kuanysh - zhuldyzkuanysh@icloud.com Abstract video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3AoqIXo3Ys

Brother Matthew was a worldly teenager when his mother decided she and her son needed to go to church. By the end of that first service, both of them had committed their lives to following Christ. As Matthew grew in faith, he was convicted and inspired by the Acts accounts of Paul's missionary travels. Studying Paul's efforts to take the gospel to the Gentiles, Matthew began to ponder who the Gentiles were in his generation, living far from the truth of Christ? As he began to ask that question in prayer, God laid on his heart the nation of Afghanistan. Matthew began taking steps towards service in that war-torn country, and repeatedly God confirmed His calling. Months later, Matthew was in Uzbekistan, serving with a church-planting effort and getting on-the-ground education in Central Asia ministry and culture. Listen as Matthew tells the stories of the people he met who experienced supernatural visions and encounters with Jesus. He'll also talk about the risks of sharing the gospel among Muslims, and the miraculous story of how God helped him get approval for an Afghan visa from the Taliban consulate! Matthew will recount what it looked like when he arrived in Kabul – just a few years after Soviet tanks withdrew – and how the Lord led him to serve in a village as God faithfully guided, one step at a time. Pray this week for our persecuted Christian brothers and sisters in Afghanistan and throughout Central Asia.

Today's episode is an "on the ground" recording made by LMPC's team that recently visited ministry partners in Central Asia. Pastors Brian Salter and Wil Nettleton, joined by Tripp Johnston and Keith Michaels, sat down in a board room in Almaty, Kazakhstan to record some of their initial thoughts and reflect on their time on the first leg of this 10-day trip.Please plan to join us at LMPC on May 17th at 6:00 P.M. for a full report about this trip.Host: Brian SalterSpecial Guests: Wil Nettleton, Tripp Johnston, & Keith MichaelsProducer: Ben WingardMusic arranged by David Henry and performed by David Henry and Hannah Lutz.To contact Pillar & Ground or to submit a question that you would like to hear addressed on a future episode, please email podcast@lmpc.org.  

Pepe Escobar is a veteran journalist, author, and geopolitical analyst renowned for his coverage of Eurasia, energy politics, and the rise of a multipolar world order. A longtime foreign correspondent who has lived across Europe and Asia, he gained prominence with his "Roving Eye" column at Asia Times, where he serves as editor-at-large, and is also a columnist for The Cradle. Since the 1980s, Escobar has extensively reported from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Central Asia, the Middle East, Iran, and China, often focusing on pipelines ("Pipelineistan"), great-power competition, and resistance to Western hegemony. Known for his colorful, sharp style and staunch anti-imperialist perspective, he is the author of books including Globalistan, Red Zone Blues, and Raging Twenties, making him a leading voice in alternative and non-Western geopolitical commentary.Watch the Cornerstone Forum 26'https://shaunnewmanpodcast.substack.com/Silver Gold Bull Links:Website: https://silvergoldbull.ca/Email: SNP@silvergoldbull.comText Grahame: (587) 441-9100Bow Valley Credit UnionBitcoin: www.bowvalleycu.com/en/personal/investing-wealth/bitcoin-gatewayEmail: welcome@BowValleycu.com Expat MoneyExpatmoney.com/SNPGet your voice heard: Text Shaun 587-217-8500

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Dr. Minhas Khan from Peshawar University about the complexities of intra-faith relations and the limitations of Samuel Huntington's "Clash of Civilizations" theory. They explore how the perception of the Muslim world as a monolithic entity is often a reductive Western construct used to serve political agendas, rather than an accurate reflection of its diverse cultural and ethnic landscapes. The conversation delves into the historical and structural roots of internal divisions within Islam, such as the Sunni-Shia divide, arguing that these fractures are frequently exacerbated by deliberate foreign engineering and statecraft rather than purely ancient theological hatred. Pinna and Khan also examine the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, highlighting the role of resource control—specifically oil—and the unique position of Pakistan as a potential diplomatic mediator in a region where economic interests often override religious identity. Dr. Minhas Majeed Khan is an Assistant Professor of International Relations at University of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. Born in Lakki Marwat, a remote area in the South of KP, she was married at the age of 16 due to which she had to discontinue her studies. With the support of her husband and three children she took a restart after 16 years of marriage and obtained her Ph.D. degree in International Relations in 2013. Dr. Khan teaches various courses to students of Masters level, MPhil and Ph.D. She is currently supervising one Ph.D., one Mphil and six undergrads dissertations. She has to her credit various publication in national and international academic journals. Her areas of interest focus on the study of religion and its role in politics, role of gender in peace and security, foreign policy decision-making, conflict resolution, US and Pakistan relations; regional politics of South, South West and Central Asia, the Pakhtuns; and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). As a Muslim woman, she strongly feels committed to strengthen the role of women in conflict transformation and peace building in a diverse setting with an aim at promoting peace and tolerance for a peaceful and stable international society. Dr. Khan is an active member of Pakistan Girls Guide Association and member to Regional Institute of Policy Research and Training (RIPORT) Board of Directors since 2010.

And then we got to this part where the trail had … um … the trail fell down the mountain!                                                               ----------------Today's stories are told by Alisha Taylor, a former AFM missionary to the Himadri in Central Asia.

What do leaders need to be aware of when they are leading people from different cultures? People from different cultures may use different language, and have different customs, behaviours, values and even risk tolerances than you are used to. They may also have different expectations and tastes, as well as a different world view.What may be acceptable to you, may not be acceptable to them and vice versa. This can create challenges for leaders if they do not know how to adapt their leadership effectively.In this episode of Delivering Adventure, Patrick Barrow joins Chris and Jordy to share some key strategies that leaders can use to build better connections across cultures. Pat has worked as guide across Central and Southeast Asia, Europe, Canada and Australia.Patrick shares his experiences working with indigenous reindeer herders in the arctic, leading guests across the Stans and adapting to a leadership role in his new home in Canada.Guest BioPatrick Barrow has been guiding around the globe for 20 years, toggling between adventure travel and outdoor education. A student of anthropology, originally from Australia, Pat's path into adventure guiding came through travel. Pat has worked across Europe and Australia, parts of the Indian and Nepalese Himalaya, the Stans and the Silk Road of Central Asia and West China, jungles of South East Asia, on the Yamal Peninsular of Arctic Russia with Indigenous Reindeer Herders, and most recently Canada. Pat's career focus has been on facilitating formative expeditions for both youth and adults in culturally remote locations around the world. In particular living a decade between Kyrgyzstan and Russia, and guiding locally in Kyrgyzstan across the Tienshan Mountains. Guiding locally has given a unique perspective in working across cultures and what it takes to manage international teams. In Canada Pat is an ACMG hiking guide and an Outdoor Council of Canada Instructor.In Australia Pat has Cert IV in Outdoor Recreation, Cert IV in Outdoor Leadership, Cert IV Trainer & Assessor and is an Associate Fellow of the Academy of Extreme Environment Medicine. Guest LinksTengrie Expeditions: www.tengriexpeditions.comPatrick Barrow Contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-barrow-83712b36Patrick Barrow Instagram: LinkResource LinksFeedspot Top 30 Pacific Northwest Adventure Podcasts: LinkFollow or SubscribeDon't forget to follow the show!Share & Social Linkshttps://linktr.ee/deliveringadventure

In part one of a two-part series, This Way Out's Ebony Joseph examines a growing global wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation—from Africa to Eastern Europe and Central Asia—where governments are increasingly criminalizing queer identity under the guise of “morality,” “tradition,” or child protection. Featuring insights from Neela Goshal of Outright International, Gurchaten Sandhu of ILGA World, and Polish advocate Annamaria Linczowska, the report connects these laws to political power plays, colonial legacies, and rising authoritarianism, while highlighting their real-world consequences—from increased violence to the silencing of advocacy. Despite legal shifts in some regions, the piece underscores the ongoing struggle for safety, visibility, and basic rights, and the critical role of grassroots movements in pushing back. Featured speakers: Phil Thoman, Pope Leo XIV, Father James Martin, Steven Reigns, Ebony Joseph, Neela Goshal, Gurchaten Sandhu, Annamaria Linczowska In NewsWrap: Russia escalates its campaign against LGBTQ communities, as courts label advocacy groups “extremists,” a U.S. appeals court upholds West Virginia's ban on Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming surgeries, raising concerns about broader limits on transgender healthcare nationwide, transgender Idaho residents sue the state over what some are calling the harshest bathroom ban in the country, human rights groups issue travel warnings ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America citing risks for LGBTQ people and other marginalized communities, and Pope Leo XIV weighs in on same-sex marriage, emphasizing unity over doctrine as debate continues within the global Church—and more international LGBTQ news reported this week by Joe Boehnlein and Tanya Kane-Parry (News Writer Ebony Joseph, News Producer Brian DeShazor). Credits: Associate Producer Lucia Chappelle, News Producer/ Host Brian DeShazor, News Editor Ebony Joseph, feature report Ebony Joseph producer, NewsWrap reporters Joe Boehnlein and Tanya Kane-Parry, music by Joy Oladokun and Kim Wilson.

Max and Maria welcome back Elina Ribakova to discuss her latest piece in Foreign Affairs, exploring the Ukrainian defense industry and its potential capacity to help Europe secure its own defense.  More from Elina in Foreign Affairs: Europe's Untapped Arsenal: Ukraine Has Forged the Defense Industry the Continent Desperately Needs 

1 Hour and 52 MinutesPG-13Dr. J. Otto Pohl received his PhD in History from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He has taught at the American University Iraq Sulaimani, University of Ghana, and American University of Central Asia. He is the author of Ethnic Cleansing in the USSR, 1937–1949 (Greenwood, 1999), The Stalinist Penal System (McFarland & Co., 1997), and The Years of Great Silence The Deportation, Special Settlement, and Mobilization into the Labor Army of Ethnic Germans in the USSR, 1941–1955 (Columbia University Press, 2022). His articles have appeared in, among other journals, The Russian Review, Journal of Genocide Research, Human Rights Review, and Studies in Ethnicity and Nationalism.This is a combination of two episodes:Episode 1062: Who Was the Most Persecuted Group Under the Soviet Regime? w/ J. Otto PohlEpisode 1166: An Overview of the Soviet Regime Pre- and Post-War w/ J. Otto PohlThe Years of Great SilenceDr. Pohl's SubstackDr. Pohl's PatreonDr. Pohl's TwitterPete and Thomas777 'At the Movies'Support Pete on His WebsitePete's PatreonPete's Substack Pete's SubscribestarPete's GUMROADPete's VenmoPete's Buy Me a CoffeePete on FacebookPete on TwitterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-pete-quinones-show--6071361/support.

Day 1,518.Today, after months of back-room negotiations, delays and doubts, we go live to Brussels as the EU finally approves the €90 billion loan for Ukraine. How significant is this decision for Kyiv's war effort – and what happens now that the funding is secured? We also report on the proposal of “Donnyland”, a suggested name for territory in Donbas Ukraine may dedicate to Donald Trump. Then we round up the latest headlines from Russia and Central Asia.Contributors:Francis Dearnley (Host on Ukraine: The Latest). @FrancisDearnley on X.Dominic Nicholls (Host on Ukraine: The Latest). @DomNicholls on X.Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent). @Barnes_Joe on X.James Kilner (Russia Analyst). @Jkjourno on X.NOW IN FULL VIDEO WITH MAPS & BATTLEFIELD FOOTAGE:Every episode is now available on our YouTube channel shortly after the release of the audio version. You will find it here: https://www.youtube.com/@UkraineTheLatest CONTENT REFERENCED:Ukraine to launch EU-funded weapons spending spree after Orban defeat (Joe Barnes in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/04/21/ukraine-to-spend-90bn-eu-windfall-on-patriots-and-storm-sha/ The Ukrainian negotiator who can silence Russia's guns with one call (Joe Barnes in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/04/20/ukrainian-peacemaker-swapping-prisoners Ukraine proposes creating ‘Donnyland' to satisfy Trump (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2026/04/22/ukraine-proposes-creating-donnyland-to-satisfy-trump/ A banking crisis made in the Kremlin is gripping Russia (Melissa Lawford in The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/04/22/a-banking-crisis-made-in-the-kremlin-is-gripping-russia/ Putin closes major oil pipeline to Germany (The Telegraph):https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/04/22/putin-stokes-european-fuel-crisis-cutting-off-oil-germany/ Russian economy is faltering despite oil windfall, Sweden warns (Financial Times):https://www.ft.com/content/04a9d05d-2502-44d4-b7e0-041aaa4f83cd?syn-25a6b1a6=1 ‘Donnyland'? Ukraine Proposes Naming Part of the Donbas in Trump's Honor (New York Times):https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/21/us/politics/donnyland-ukraine-donbas-trump.html Russia and North Korea Celebrate Joining of First Road Bridge (Moscow Times):https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2026/04/21/russia-and-north-korea-celebrate-joining-of-first-road-bridge-a92556 New biography on author Mikhail Bulgakov labeled under 'drug propaganda' law in Russia (Kyiv Independent):https://kyivindependent.com/amid-growing-censorship-laws-book-on-author-mikhail-bulgakov-labeled-drug-propaganda-in-russia/?mc_cid=9364e648a5&mc_eid=08d0680a95 EMAIL US:Contact the team on ukrainepod@telegraph.co.uk . We continue to read every message, and seek to respond to as many on air and in our newsletter as possible.HIGHLIGHTS: EU approves €90 billion loan for Ukraine.A territory in the Donbas region of Ukraine may be named ‘Donnyland' in tribute to Donald Trump. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Miriam Horn is an award-winning journalist and author whose work lives at the intersection of conservation, food production, and the people working—often quietly and pragmatically—to hold those worlds together. Many listeners will recognize her from her excellent book "Rancher, Farmer, Fisherman," a title that's come up repeatedly on this podcast for its nuanced look at how working lands and conservation can coexist. But her new book, "Homesick for a World Unknown: The Life of George B. Schaller," zooms out to tell the story of a man whose influence touches nearly every corner of modern wildlife biology. If you're like I was before reading this book, you may not fully appreciate the importance of George Schaller and his work—but it's hard to overstate his impact. If you're working in wildlife science today—whether studying elk in Wyoming or snow leopards in Central Asia—you're building on a foundation he helped create. He helped shift wildlife biology away from specimen collection and distant population management toward long-term, immersive observation rooted in patience and deep respect for animals in their natural environments. And beyond his own research, his legacy lives on through the countless scientists he mentored around the world, many of whom went on to lead conservation efforts in their home countries. In this conversation, Miriam and I explore Schaller's remarkable life and the long arc of his influence—from his early days in Alaska to his groundbreaking work with gorillas, big cats, and high-altitude species across the globe. We talk about the tension between conservation and human needs, the role of humility and local knowledge in effective wildlife protection, and what Miriam learned after nearly a decade spent researching and writing this biography. It's a wide-ranging conversation about one man's life, but also about the bigger question of how humans can live responsibly within the natural world. "Homesick for a World Unknown" is available at your favorite bookseller now. I hope you enjoy this conversation and the book! --- Miriam Horn Homesick for a World Unknown: The Life of George B. Schaller Full episode notes and links: https://mountainandprairie.com/miriam-horn --- THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Mountain & Prairie is listener supported via Patreon, and brought to you with support from the Freeflow Institute, The Nature Conservancy in Colorado, and the Well Done Foundation for their generous sponsorship. --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 0:00 - Introducing Miriam Horn and highlighting the Well Done Foundation 6:17 - Feedback from George 10:00 - Beginning a decade of work 15:52 - Getting George to open up 19:52 - A bit of George's biography 24:39 - Becoming a charismatic megafauna 26:53 - Putting the gun down 31:03 - Humility and hard-headedness 33:29 - Seeking the full picture 36:57 - Husband and wife team 41:00 - Not protective parents 47:30 - George and Kay to the modern-day 52:39 - How George changed Miriam 59:11 - The writers Miriam admires 1:04:54 - Words of wisdom --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts

SCHEDULE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 4-14-2026.1874 MONET1. US Economic Resilience Amid Global Conflict. Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor discuss the surprisingly strong US economy despite Middle East instability. Consumer spending remains robust, wages are rising, and the Trump agenda of deregulation and tariffs is encouraging domestic investment.2. Russia and China's Strategic Calculations. Gregory Copley explains how Russia benefits from rising oil prices and expanded influence in Central Asia. Conversely, China fears regime collapse in Iran and seeks to diminish US global prestige during the conflict.3. The Risks of Puppet Government Models. John Batchelor and Gregory Copley critique the Trump administration's attempt to use Delcy Rodriguez as a model for Iran. They discuss how hardline leaders in Venezuela and Iran prioritize personal survival over national interests.4. King Charles III's Diplomatic Mission to Washington. Gregory Copley discusses King Charles III's upcoming visit to address Congress. The King aims to heal diplomatic rifts between Donald Trump and Keir Starmer, particularly regarding the Chagos Archipelago and Diego Garcia strategic nodes.5. Naval Challenges and Maritime Chokepoints. Grant Newsham asserts that the US Navy can successfully blockade the Strait of Hormuz and manage the Bab-el-Mandeb. He notes China and Russia are encouraging Iran to test American resolve through maritime provocations.6. The Resurgence and Failure of Industrial Policy. Veronique de Rugy criticizes the resurgence of industrial policy, noting past failures in Japan and China. She warns that World Bank recommendations for government-led industry protection often result in economic distortions and higher costs.7. Purges and Divisions within the Chinese Military. Piero Tozzi and Gordon Chang analyze Xi Jinping's recent military purges, including Zhang Youxia. These internal divisions and the removal of operational commanders may hinder China's ability to coordinate a successful invasion of Taiwan.8. Nuclear Deterrence and Battlefield Realities. Peter Huessy warns about the lack of nuclear education among modern policymakers. He discusses Russia's potential use of battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine to reverse military losses and Iran's acquisition of Russian missile technology.9. The California Gubernatorial Jungle Primary. Elizabeth Peek details the collapse of Eric Swalwell's campaign following misconduct allegations. The jungle primary system in California creates a risk for Democrats that two Republicans, like Steve Hilton, could face off in November.10. The Electoral Defeat of Viktor Orbán. Judy Dempsey explains how Peter Magyar defeated Viktor Orbán in Hungary by uniting a divided opposition. Hungarian voters rejected corruption and Russian interference, signaling a desire for rule of law and European integration.11. Populism and Energy Subsidies in Germany. Judy Dempsey observes the rise of the AfD party in Saxony, fueled by nationalist fervor among young voters. Chancellor Friedrich Merz faces pressure to address high energy costs and immigration while maintaining transatlantic relations.12. The Strategy of Economic Siege against Iran. Jonathan Schanzer describes the US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz as part of a wider economic war. This strategy aims to deplete regime revenue by hundreds of millions daily through heightened sanctions.13. Escalation and Unprecedented Diplomacy in Lebanon. Jonathan Schanzer discusses the IDF's efforts to establish a security zone in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah. Simultaneously, unprecedented direct talks between the Lebanese and Israeli governments are occurring at the US State Department.14. Dismantling Information Warfare in Hungary. Ivana Stradner celebrates Peter Magyar's victory over Viktor Orbán, emphasizing the need to dismantle the state-controlled media apparatus. She warns that Russia continues to use influence operations to support authoritarian leaders in Eastern Europe.15. Iran's Nuclear Ambitions and Fissile Material Extraction. Andrea Stricker outlines the challenge of extracting Iran's 60% enriched uranium from deeply buried sites like Fordo. She emphasizes that permanent peace requires the complete removal of fissile material and centrifuges to prevent breakout.16. Geopolitics of the Strait of Hormuz Blockade. Gregory Copley analyzes the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global oil markets. He argues the US must ensure the Red Sea remains viable while managing pressure from Saudi Arabia.