Podcasts about charm offensive

Jason recaps the penultimate episode of Pluribus season one, then brings in producer Ian to discuss Carol’s new tactics for extracting information from the hivemind, Zosia rizzing Carol up, the lore drops we learned, and, finally, their predictions for what could happen in the looming confrontation when Manousos finally reaches Albuquerque in the finale. Follow Jason: IG & Bluesky Follow Rosie: IG & Letterboxd Follow X-Ray Vision on Instagram Join the X-Ray Vision DiscordSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reposted from Wax Episodic, which you can find at: https://podcastica.com/podcast/wax-episodic — We're happy to see Carol finally start asking some questions and intrigued by the answers. And how very human of her to be distracted by Zosia's charm offensive.  Next up on Pluribus: S1E9 “La Chica o El Mundo”. Let us know your thoughts! You can email or send a voice message to oneofus@podcastica.com. Or join our Discord where you can leave comments and chat with hosts and other listeners: https://discord.gg/6WUMt3m3qe  Or get subsumed into our Podcastica Facebook group, where we put up comment posts for each episode, at facebook.com/groups/podcastica. Other Wax Episodic shows: Consider trying one of these other intelligent, engaging, oftentimes delightfully twisted shows that we cover on this very podcast: Fallout (Amazon): A crazy retro-futuristic post-apocalyptic melange of wholesomeness and depravity. One of the best looking shows on TV, funny as hell, violent AF (but in a cartoony way), and with a great cast, including Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets) and Walton Goggins (The White Lotus, The Righteous Gemstones). Not to be missed! Hosted by Jason, Kara, and Kasi. IT: Welcome to Derry (HBO): A fun, scary, and surprisingly great prequel to the 2016 and 2019 IT movies, Pennywise stalks the children of 1962 Derry. A mix of heart, mystery, charm, and some shockingly disturbing Nightmare on Elme Street-esque horror. Cohosted by Shawn of Strange Indeed. Alien: Earth (FX): From the brilliant Noah Hawley (Fargo, Legion), this one really scratches that sci-fi itch. A greedy corporate tech overlord transfers the consciousness of a group of terminally ill children into highly performant synth bodies. And the Xenomorph is in it, too. Also, Tim Olyphant! Hosted by Jason, Kara, and Randy. Come join our Discord and chat with hosts and other listeners:  It's our own little private Podcastica space to talk about Pluribus, Fallout, Welcome to Derry, Alien: Earth, other shows, and whatever else we want. It's free, and it's fun, and you won't believe how wonderful it feels, Carol. Invitation link: https://discord.gg/6WUMt3m3qe  Check out other shows on our network at podcastica.com.  Show support and get ad-free episodes and a bunch of other cool stuff: patreon.com/jasoncabassi  Or go to buymeacoffee.com/cabassi for a one-time donation. Seriously, you'll be glad you did once you understand how wonderful it feels.  Digging our podcast? A quick, free, and easy way to show support and help bump us up in the charts is to give us a rating or a review: On Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wax-episodic-alien-earth/id1824392797 On Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sA66ySwVRIsdzBBdriEGV?si=87f36cd30cc54dc5  Or just search for “Wax Episodic” wherever you get podcasts.  Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carol sleeps with the 'enemy' - how's Manousos going to look her behavior?! While he's been in the sick bed, Carol's visiting ANOTHER spa and writing O.G. Raban stories.  Is the Hive Mind on a Charm Offensive?  Or is Carol? + We sing Christmas 'CAROL's'!!! Join our hive mind in saying 'Hi Carol!" to the hit new AppleTV show PLUR1BUS - created by Vince Gilligan, the creator of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul! The 'Hi Carol' podcast crew from Double P Podcasts, reach us across social media, Instagram, Facebook, BlueSky, Threads, Twitter:  @DoublePHQ 00:00 Intro 02:32 Bubba's rating 04:35 Catfish's rating  08:25 Big Question: How will Manousos look at Carol's behavior?  15:35 Christmas CAROLs  21:38 Twilight Zone Parallels  24:18 You Gotta Laugh 25:43 Episode Breakdown 48:45 Skinsuit of the Week 50:02 Pluribus or U.S.?  51:24 Feedback  Charm Offensive season 1 episode 8 s1e8 s01e08 s1e08 Carol takes a different tack with the Others and discovers more than she anticipated. Manousos awakens in unfamiliar surroundings.  Christmas CAROLs sing-along: All I want for Christmas is my ice-cold Gatorade, My own grenade, My Sprouts re-made! All I want for Christmas is a way to reverse it, Then I could wish you "Fine. Good Riddance. F- You!." Oh the weather outside is frightful But the hive is so delightful Since there's nothing we don't know Let it go, let it go, let it go – CAROL! We aren't showing signs of stopping Our numbers are only slightly dropping Unless you want to be solo Let it go, let it go, let it go – CAROL! Will you stop being so uptight? This is now what we call the norm Why don't you give up the fight And we can help you transform It will stop you from all this crying And you'll lose your fear of dying We swear it's not a death blow Let it go, let it go, let it goooooo – CAROL! Here comes Manousos, here comes Manousos, right up the Darien Gap They'll offer him water and a ride, yet he ain't taking their crap He'll face peril, to reach Carol, all is scary and blight He got real sick, on a Chunga Palm stick, and Manousos went night-night I'm dreaming of some hot ladies And my picture on each wall Where the party's hopping and The chicks are sopping And everyone is at my beck and call I'm dreaming of some hot ladies And a royal straight flush Where no one's minding My hot tub grinding With the whole cleaning staff I'm dreaming of some hot ladies And a ride on air force one It's the mile high club With 8 billion in one They all say I'm super fun May your days be merry and bright And may little Koumma stay upright   Director  Melissa Bernstein Writers Jonny Gomez (written by) Vince Gilligan (created by) Ariel Levine (executive story editor) Vera Blasi (executive story editor) Jonny Gomez (executive story editor) Cast Rhea Seehorn ... Carol Sturka Karolina Wydra ... Zosia Carlos-Manuel Vesga ... Manousos Miriam Shor ... Helen John Cena ... Menik Gooneratne ... Laxmi Jeff Hiller ... Larry Samba Schutte ... Mr. Diabaté Peter Bergman ... Davis Taffler Darinka Arones ... Kusimayu Anna Mhairi ... Vesper Max Reeves ... Margaux Olivia Rouyre ... Genevieve Amaraa Sanjid ... Otgonbayar Khaliun Amarburen ... Byamba Rayaan Kamal Khan ... Ravi Piyush Gupta ... Aarush Viji Nathan ... Padma Sharon Gee ... Xiu Mei David Niu ... Neu Xiansheng Elena Estér ... T'ika Jennifer Esquivel ... Sisa Phuong Kubacki ... Soleil Robert Bailey Jr. ... DHL Guy José Juan Ramos Ramos ... Friendly Driver (as Jota Ramos) François Guétary ... Blofinger Soledad Campos ... Maternal Other Tim Keller ... Mayor Tim J Diego Gonçalves ... Nurse David Wiater ... Pharmacy Worker Jenelle Baptiste ... Calm Person Thor Knai ... Bjorn Tedd Taskey ... Captain Matthew Page ... First Officer Imani Love ... Cleo Esther Omegba ... Jasmine Karan Soni ... Deshpande Allan McLeod ... Bob Jack Mikesell ... Ray Woody Fu ... Dave Blair Beeken ... Jenn Eric Steinig ... Mel Bernadette Guckin ... Maureen Monique Lott ... Monique Monae Lott ... Monae Sam Quinn ... Craig Merritt C. Glover ... Nurse Tara Southerland ... Tatted-Out Orderly Roy Ward ... Stone-Faced Man Dennis Milliken ... Driver(as Dennis W. Milliken) Toby Sanchez ... Janitor(as Michael Toby Sanchez) Teagan Sucherman ... Neighbor Girl Isak Tufic ... Neighbor Boy Composer Dave Porter Cinematographer Marshall Adams (director of photography) Editor Skip Macdonald Casting Sharon Bialy Russell Scott Sherry Thomas Production Designer Denise Pizzini Art Directors Dins Danielsen (supervising art director) Guillermo Llaguno (art direction) Chet Maxwell Set Decorator Ashley Michelle Marsh Costume Designer Jennifer L. Bryan Albuquerque plays itself This podcast was made by humans

Can you charm someone into assimilation? In Pluribus Episode 8 (“Charm Offensive”), the Others turn up the emotional manipulation — and Carol feels every bit of it. As Zosia returns with a new strategy to win her over, Carol lets her guard down just enough to spark intimacy, only to realize how calculated everything might be.Brandon & Chanel break down the beauty, heartbreak, and ethical gray zones:Zosia's slow-burn seduction: companionship, compliments, and… mango ice cream storiesThe recreated diner scene — touching tribute or disturbing fake memory?Carol's evolving whiteboard: the return of “What I Know About Them”That kiss: meaningful connection or hive-sanctioned distraction?Carol's conflicted monologue: “This is mental illness. It's psychosis.”Manousos wakes up — in a hospital under Others' care — and breaks out againThe Others' plan to spread the “gift” beyond Earth… while still starving hereZosia's line that says it all: “We wish you would give up. But we also love Wycaro.”With standout performances from Rhea Seehorn and Karolina Wydra, this episode explores the blurry line between comfort and control, love and coercion, autonomy and assimilation. And Brandon & Chanel are here to break it all down — from fake diners to forced hope to that final, haunting glance out the window.

Carol is asking the questions that we've had for so long. So hold your theory crafting in check for a moment, Pluribus has something to tell us. Jim and A.Ron are examining the differences between Carol and Manousos. Carol is in bed with the enemy. And we find out where this all started, right here on Pluribussin on Bald Move. Bald Move Christmas 2025 - How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) Bald Move Christmas groundhog.baldmove.com Kepler-22b Pete Peppers YouTube Send us feedback at pluribus@baldmove.com. Hey there!  Check out https://support.baldmove.com/ to find out how you can gain access to ALL of our premium content, as well as ad-free versions of the podcasts, for just $5 a month! Join the Club! Join the discussion:  Email | Discord | Reddit | Forums Follow us: Twitch | YouTube | Twitter  |  Instagram  |  Facebook Leave Us A Review on Apple Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the finale steadily approaching, Jo and Rob are here to help break down the second-to-last-last episode of the first season of ‘Pluribus'. (0:00) Intro (8:04) Connectivity and empathy (14:37) Hive-mind theater (23:53) Carole in the New World (40:37) Rob's hypothetical (42:37) A Manousos question (47:44) Breaking down the info nuggets (56:57) Anticipating the finale Email us! prestigetv@spotify.com or lickingthedonut@gmail.com Subscribe to the Ringer TV YouTube channel here for full episodes of The Prestige TV Podcast and so much more! Hosts: Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney Producer: Donnie Beacham Jr. Additional Production Support: Justin Sayles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Pluribus Episode 8, "Charm Offensive," takes an intimate turn as the Others swap brute force for "weaponized empathy," meticulously rebuilding Carol's favorite diner for a date designed to break her will. We break down the psychology behind Zosia's seduction tactics, from the stargazing to that shocking kiss, and debate whether this is perfect manipulation or if Zosia is actually compromised by genuine feelings. With Carol clinging to the brutal truth that "they eat people" and Manousos making a desperate run for the border, this episode proves that intimacy can be deadlier than violence, join us as we dissect every coded gesture and what it means for the season endgame. Hit like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments below!

The Rhineland Crisis and the Olympic Charm Offensive: Colleague Charles Spicer details the 1936 Rhineland crisis, where Graham Christie provided London with accurate advance warning of Hitler's move, only to have the intelligence ignored due to public pacifism; the narrative shifts to the 1936 Olympics, a high point of Nazi deception where even the skeptical Vansittart was charmed, while Conwell-Evans devised a plan to bypass Prime Minister Baldwin and send David Lloyd George to meet Hitler, intending to use Lloyd George's immense political stature to "civilize" the dictator and secure peace. 1933

Title: Meghan's Taylor Swift Gambit Stalls; Sussex Scrutiny Rises—and William's Hug Goes ViralDescription: Reports say Meghan's overtures toward Taylor Swift aren't landing, as revived claims about her 2016 Rwanda trip and fresh commentary argue the Sussexes face growing institutional pushback. We track William's Brazil “hug” photos undercutting a long-repeated narrative, a Lisburn plaque dilemma over Andrew's old title, and renewed debate over what to call “Mr Mountbatten Windsor.”Hear our new show "Crown and Controversy: Prince Andrew" here.Check out "Palace Intrigue Presents: King WIlliam" here.

In this episode of Hub Politics, Sean Speer, along with Amanda Galbraith, principal at Oyster Group, and David Coletto, founder and CEO of Abacus Data, discuss Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent trip to Washington. They examine his diplomatic approach with President Trump, including his public flattery and the communication challenges this creates. They also discuss whether Canadians will accept the necessary compromises in trade negotiations despite Carney's previous "elbows up" campaign rhetoric. They also explore the emerging NDP leadership race, particularly Rob Ashton's working-class candidacy, and the growing significance of generational politics; how age-based divisions over housing, wealth accumulation, and economic opportunity may reshape Canadian political dynamics in the coming years. The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet. Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get our best content when you are on the go: https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify) Want more Hub? Get a FREE 3-month trial membership on us: https://thehub.ca/free-trial/ Follow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en CREDITS: Amal Attar-Guzman - Producer, Sound Editor, and Video Editor Sean Speer - Host To contact us, sign up for updates, and access transcripts email support@thehub.ca

Comedian Glenn Moore looks in his almanac at world events and what he was doing at the time. In this episode, a deadly spy operation causes Glenn to suspect his completely innocent Russian flatmate who just happens to have a novelty cigarette lighter in the shape of a gun. And not a novelty gun in the shape of a cigarette lighter.Perhaps best-known for his outrageously brilliant one-liners on Mock The Week , Glenn delivers a tale of comic mishaps and extraordinary scenes interwoven with a big event in history – and looks back through his almanac to find out other strange connections to the day as well.This is the first episode of the Second series of Glenn Moore's Almanac. To hear more episodes, search "Stand-Up Specials" on BBC Sounds.Written by Glenn with additional material by Katie Storey (Have I Got News For You, Mock The Week, The Last Leg) and produced and directed by David Tyler (Cabin Pressure, Armando Iannucci's Charm Offensive, etc)A Pozzitive production for BBC Radio 4

Charming students and greenlighting giant Chinese energy projects: just weeks after Dan Andrews’ parade photo call, Victorian premier Jacinta Allan is wooing Beijing despite Canberra’s deep sensitivities about the relationship. View an edited transcript of this episode, plus photos, videos and additional reporting on the website or on The Australian’s app. This episode of The Front is presented by Claire Harvey, produced by Kristen Amiet and edited by Tiffany Dimmack. Our team includes Lia Tsamoglou, Joshua Burton, Stephanie Coombes and Jasper Leak, who also composed our music. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

European leaders went on the charm offensive in their visit to the White House with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as they sought to ensure that US President Donald Trump's doesn't bow to Russia in an attempt to end the war in Ukraine.On The Last Word, Marion McKeone and Cal Thomas are joined by Edward Burke, lecturer in war studies at UCD, to discuss where things stand between Trump, Ukraine, Europe and Russia after the White House summit.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

This week on The Bolcast, Mikey's solo before and after the phone because Morgan is away for a sneaky Commander gathering. Her loss today because our guest is one of my faves in the Magic: The Gathering content creator sphere. She's down-to-Earth and funny. She's insightful and a champion of the cEDH format. She's a cosplay model and on the Commander Format Panel. Today, one half of the Scrybabies and one half of cEDH power couple makes one whole perfect guest - Lua Stardust calls in today to chat with Mikey!Make sure to check out all things Lua Stardust at https://www.luastardust.com. Another Am I The Mailbag? is next week so get your stories submitted to the amithebolas@gmail.com inbox. This time, a friend of Mikey's sent him one that makes him get mean and giggly.A couple of things to plug:As always, we are sponsored by Cardsphere.com!Card Sphere, Get your cards here! Check out the referral link below!Winslow Dumaine's - The Restless Kickstater:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/winslowdumaine/the-restless-a-hand-drawn-cooperative-tabletop-horror-gameDon't forget to use your BOLCAST promo at BoneBoxGames.com. Get your mitts on some amazing deckboxes for your collection.00:00:11 - Skip intro button00:01:12 - CardSphere.com is sponsoring us again! Use our referral link! Chatting about Bonebox Games and The Restless Kickstarter!CardSphere referral link: https://www.cardsphere.com/?referrer=bolcast00:10:12 - A conversation with Lua Stardust!00:42:15 - Mike chats about Edge of Eternities00:55:43 - Mike talks about how grateful he is for everything Magic: The Gathering has given him (friends, experiences, etc) and how a friend of his just started playing Magic which rules. Edited by Ken PeddleHere is our Linktr.ee (linktr.ee/amithebolas)Check us out on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@AmITheBolcastCheck out www.edhrec.com where Morgan edits and Carrozza writes.Music by Mike CarrozzaFind us on Bluesky - We're moving away from Twitter. Slowly, but it's happening.Podcast - @amithebolcastCarrozza - @mikecarrozzaMorgan - @indigogentlemanThanks for listening!

This week on Talking Royals, Charlene asks Chris and Lizzie about their busy week covering President Macron's state visit, and finds out that it's not all as glamorous as it seems.And, Prince Andrew's return to the headlines after the FBI dropped its Epstein investigation. Does it mean we could be about to see much more of the Duke?Plus, the state banquet menu is put to the taste test. Want to get in touch? Email talkingroyals@itv.com.

As Kyiv turns to Africa in its struggle against Moscow, we discuss how much African influence really matters to Ukraine’s overall war effort.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The news cycle never slows down and neither does Hub Hits. Each day we provide you with quick hits on topical stories, big issues and important voices appearing in The Hub. This episode features David Mulroney, Canada's former ambassador to China. He discusses the Carney government opening up lines of communication with Beijing, the potential security threat China poses, its coercive economic pressure tactics, as well as the risks associated with the increasingly positive reputation China is garnering among Canadians. He also shares what to look out for in conversations about China at the upcoming G7 summit in Alberta.   The Hub is Canada's fastest growing independent digital news outlet. Subscribe to The Hub's podcast feed to get all our best content: https://tinyurl.com/3a7zpd7e (Apple) https://tinyurl.com/y8akmfn7 (Spotify) Watch a video version on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHubCanada Want more Hub? Get a FREE 3-month trial membership on us: https://thehub.ca/free-trial/ Follow The Hub on X: https://x.com/thehubcanada?lang=en   CREDITS: Amal Attar-Guzman - Producer Alisha Rao - Sound Editor Harrison Lowman - Host

Happy Pride Month Libration Nation! This week's episode is so special and fun, with returning guest Rachel Yorkshire! Rachel is bringing us a wealth of books with LGBTQ stories by queer authors that she loves. We also enjoyed Iced Coffees, which as Rachel says, is the gayest of all drinks! Rachel lives in Richmond with her wife Marissa and their very spoiled dog. She and her wife both post their bookish endeavors and reviews over on their bookstagram lesbereaders, and they would love for you to give them a follow. If she's not reading, Rachel is probably daydreaming, laughing with friends, or bothering her dog. The first Pride March in New York City was held on June 28, 1970, on the one year anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. This month, I encourage you to read stories that celebrate the LGBTQ community, and the contributions they have made toward our society. There is a lot of hate being directed towards this community right now, and I encourage all of us to stand with them, show support and solidarity. In This Episode Rachel's previous DITL Episode - Carry On by Rainbow Rowell LesBeReaders (Rachel and her Wife's Bookstagram) Quietly Hostile by Samantha Irby Vampires Never Get Old by Natalie C. Parker & Zoraida Córdova (for fans of Vampire Stories) Bad Gays: A Homosexual History by Ben Miller & Huw Lemmey (for History Nerds)  Fun Home by Alison Bechdel (for people who love Graphic Novels) The Bechdel Test Heartstopper by Alice Oseman (for people who love Graphic Novels)  The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon (for fans of High Fantasy) It Came from the Closet Edited by Joe Vallese (for fans of Horror Movies) Too Scary; Didn't Watch Podcast Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas (for when you want a Supernatural YA Novel) Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz (for people who love coming of age stories) Moby Dyke: An Obsessive Quest To Track Down The Last Remaining Lesbian Bars In America by Krista Burton (for Gays who love going to the bars!) Stonewall Sports League Richmond Babes of Carytown Gay Bar: Why We Went Out by Jeremy Atherton Lin (for Gays who love going to the bars!)  The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun (for fans of The Bachelor or The Bachelorette—but make it gay) Our Wives Under the Sea by Julia Armfield (for when you want a Spooky, Mysterious, SAD book) Movies That Made Me Gay by Larry Duplechan (for fans of Classic Cinema) Stars in Your Eyes by Kacen Callender (for fans of Fluffy Rom-Coms) A little Pride Month History Here For It by R. Eric Thomas (one of Gigi's favorite books and writer)

Did President Trump speak with Xi Jinping about ending the trade war? The PBD panel breaks down conflicting reports, China's denial, and what this could mean for global markets, U.S. credibility, and Trump's next move in the art of the deal.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is wrapping up a tour this week of Southeast Asia where he has been selling the idea of China as a force for economic stability and prosperity. He has also criticized President Donald Trump's trade policies as destructive to the global economy. We'll look at how that message is being received. Also, Saudi Arabia has invested billions of dollars in the the electric vehicle industry in preparation for a post-oil future. And, the legacy of Indigenous runner Tom Longboat lives on at this year's Boston Marathon, which kicks off on Monday.Listen to today's Music Heard on Air. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

From the BBC World Service: Chinese President Xi Jinping is continuing his weeklong tour of Southeast Asia. He arrives in Malaysia tonight — a country that has been hit by a 24% American tariff. And, as countries wait to hear what's next on tariffs, South Korea has agreed to pump an extra $5 billion into its semiconductor industry. Plus, we take a closer look at Japan's aging society and declining birthrate.

From the BBC World Service: Chinese President Xi Jinping is continuing his weeklong tour of Southeast Asia. He arrives in Malaysia tonight — a country that has been hit by a 24% American tariff. And, as countries wait to hear what's next on tariffs, South Korea has agreed to pump an extra $5 billion into its semiconductor industry. Plus, we take a closer look at Japan's aging society and declining birthrate.

After Vietnam, China's President Xi Jinping has arrived in Malaysia. Unlike Vietnam, which trades more with the United States than with China, Malaysia has kept China as its top trading partner for 16 years. During the visit, Xi is also expected to discuss a free trade agreement between China and ASEAN, as Malaysia is currently chair of the regional bloc. Meanwhile, as the trade war with the US escalates, Beijing has reportedly ordered its largest airlines to halt further deliveries of Boeing jets.

Charles Payne's daily take on Making Money: Everyone is talking about Bret Baier's FOX News interview with Elon Musk and his team at DOGE. Charles and his panel agree on the importance of DOGE speaking to everyday Americans to combat the left-wing media stories about them, compelling evidence of fraud & abuse, and making sure misspent government funds are put back in the hands of hardworking Americans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

1/2: #IRAN: CHARM OFFENSIVE. BEHNAM BEN TALEBLU, FDD 1887 TEHRAN

122: #IRAN: CHARM OFFENSIVE. BEHNAM BEN TALEBLU, FDD 1925 PERISA

In our first Opponent Spotlight of 2025, we're thrilled to be joined by Sheena and Chad Smith of For the Glory KC to cover off season roster moves and some predictions for Saturday night. Check out the episode to hear Sheena and Chad's thoughts on:  National MLS perspective versus the local nuanced vibes around SKC (and Peter Vermes)Most exciting moves over the offseasonKeys to success for SKC this season and this weekendThoughts on Dániel Sallói's moustacheFind and follow For The Glory KC on Bluesky and Instagram and listen on Spotify!--Then we catch up on Austin's own massive offseason moves, covering:All our new boys!Our Most Expensive 'Fit Check to dateThe club's "Charm Offensive"Social Media Stand Outsand as always, stick around 'til the end to find out The Man of Steph's Jersey!Support the show

We read the papers so you don't have to. Today: The Times covers Starmer's trip to the EU. But while the Labour leader tries to butter up Brussels, Coco fears he could end up eating some humble pie. Meanwhile, Jacob leaps to the defense of all men after the Daily Mail suggests they should be banned from gyms. Plus – The Telegraph says women should embrace the Fox News look – but Miranda isn't sure about the MAGA makeover. Miranda Sawyer is joined by comedian Jacob Hawley and journalist Coco Khan.  Support Paper Cuts and get mugs, t-shirts, extended ad-free editions and access to our exclusive live streams here: back.papercutsshow.com Follow Paper Cuts: • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/papercutsshow.bsky.social • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@papercutsshow • Twitter: https://twitter.com/papercutsshow • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papercutsshow • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@papercutsshow Illustrations by Modern Toss https://moderntoss.com  Use code PAPERCUTS to get an exclusive 60% off an annual Incogni plan: https://incogni.com/papercuts Written and presented by Miranda Sawyer. Audio production: Simon Williams. Production. Liam Tait. Design: James Parrett. Music: Simon Williams. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Exec Producer: Martin Bojtos. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. PAPER CUTS is a Podmasters Production Podmasters.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

#NewWorldReport: Venezuela charm offensive.  Latin American Research Professor Evan Ellis, U.S. Army War College Strategic Studies Institute. @revanellis #NewWorldReportEllis 1912 VENEZUELA

From Obama's effortless cool aura to Zelenskyy's stoic defiance, charm and charisma have shown themselves to be game-changers in politics. Often dismissed as superficial, these qualities can shift public opinion, steer policy, and even swing elections. Today on The Bunker, Zing Tsjeng speaks with Julia Sonnevend, author of Charm: How Magnetic Personalities Shape Global Politics, to explore the power of charm global politics.     Buy Charm: How Magnetic Personalities Shape Global Politics through our affiliate bookshop and you'll help fund The Bunker by earning us a small commission for every sale. Bookshop.org's fees help support independent bookshops too.  We are sponsored by Indeed. Go to Indeed.com/bunker for £100 sponsored credit.      Support us on Patreon.   Written and presented by Zing Tsjeng. Producer: Liam Tait. Audio producer: Jade Bailey. Managing editor: Jacob Jarvis. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production.    Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rick Klein, ABC News Political Director; François-Philippe Champagne, Industry Minister ; Mike Le Couteur, CTV News & Rachel Aiello, CTV News ; The Front Bench with: Saeed Selvam, Jamie Ellerton, Karl Bélanger & Marieke Walsh.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has begun a new campaign to charm foreign leaders and foreign investors. The strategy comes in the wake of the CCP's top-level meetings in the third plenum, where the regime outlined an economic goal of domestic production, but gave very little in terms of practical steps in fixing the damaged Chinese economy. Yet, while the CCP appears to be trying to form new deals, another crisis for the regime is looming in the background: the United States is planning to announce new sanctions on the CCP, after NATO determined that the regime's support is enabling Russia's war in Ukraine. We'll discuss in this episode of Crossroads. Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.   ⭕️

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On this episode, Sarah Sabet and I discuss Scandi-Crime, how her book club fell in love with Lynn Painter, and we have an extended conversation about a fantastic organization that, unfortunately, neither of us have had a chance to connect with: @readandrunchicago on Instagram!   Books mentioned in this episode:    What Betsy's reading:  Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros  The Resort by Sarah Ochs Annie Bot by Sierra Greer  Dune by Frank Herbert  The Husbands by Holly Gramazio    Books Highlighted by Sarah:  The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett The China Garden by Liz Berry  The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris  The Brilliant Life of Eudora Honeysett by Annie Lyons The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson  The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson The Girl who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter Devil's Trill: A Daniel Jacobus Mystery by Gerald Elias  The Art of Gathering: How we Meet and Why it Matters by Priya Parker    Other Books Mentioned in the Episode: All books available on my Bookshop.org episode page.   The Charm Offensive by Alison Cochrun  I'm Traveling Alone by Samuel Bjork  The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis  Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne  Becoming by Michelle Obama  Atonement by Ian McEwan  Faust by J.W. Von Goethe  Fellow Travelers by Thomas Mallon  The Chestnut Man by Soren Sveistrup  Last Summer on State Street by Toya Wolfe  Gaybash by David Jay Collins

Late last week Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama was in the ethnic Greek town of Himare, where he announced the restitution of some 400 titles to homes in the area to residents who have been suing the Albanian state for more than 30 years. Rama's attempt to reconcile with the Greeks of Himare comes as the town's mayor elect, Fredi Beleri, remains imprisoned, and for many this gesture does not go far enough in addressing the longstanding and serious issue of minority property rights. Vassilis Nedos, Kathimerini's diplomatic and defense editor, joins Thanos Davelis to break down Edi Rama's charm offensive toward the Greeks of Himare, the issue of property rights facing the Greek minority, and more.You can read the articles we discuss on our podcast here:Rama theatrics with ethnic Greek propertiesAnkara ‘threatens' own marine parksSkrekas: We will keep fighting against inflation

Doc welcomes Black Label Society drummer, Jeff Fabb, to the show. This episode features the songs "Charm Offensive" by Suicides Cages and "Love and War" by Jeff Fabb. Follow Jeff Fabb on Instagram @jefffabb and Twitter @JFabb Follow Doc on Instagram and Twitter @DocCoyle Please check out this episode's sponsor Suicide Cages at https://suicidecages.bandcamp.com/ Listen to more great podcasts like this at soundtalentmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Xi Jinping visits Europe for the first time in five years, we ask whether China or western Europe have any real interest in reviving relations. Then: UK foreign secretary David Cameron promises long-term aid during a visit to Kyiv as the US warns of chemical weapons being used by Russia. Plus: the latest business headlines and a round-up of what's hitting cinemas this week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does David Cameron's US charm offensive tell us about the UK's foreign-policy strategy? Plus: we discuss whether Ireland's new taoiseach, Simon Harris, will help to boost Fine Gael's electoral prospects and why Germany's chancellor, Olaf Scholz, has joined Tiktok. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we are joined by author Alison Cochrun, writer of the best-selling romance novels The Charm Offensive and Kiss Her Once For Me. Her latest work, Here We Go Again, is a “new queer rom-com following once childhood best friends forced together to drive their former teacher across the country.” Here We Go Again is available now from Simon & Schuster Canada! We had a great time hearing about Alison's journey to becoming an author after being a full-time high school English teacher, the ups and downs of publishing, being inspired to write a story based on personal experience, how Alison incorporates humour into her books, how she writes queer characters with varying experiences of being queer, and so much more! Be sure to also check out Alison's other titles, The Charm Offensive (one of Laura's fave reads!) and Kiss Her Once For Me, both available from Simon & Schuster Canada. Learn more on Alison's website, and follow Alison on Instagram!

Welcome to the beautiful world of queer romance with author Alison Cochrun. Hear about the stories behind her heartwarming novels that celebrate love's many hues and the courageous journey of self-discovery that echoes through her pages. From the award-winning "Kiss Her Once for Me" to the charm of "The Charm Offensive," and the excitement building around "Here We Go Again," Alison shares her thoughts on crafting the quirkiest, most endearing characters that resonate with readers everywhere. Discover how a feverish six-day writing stint morphed into an international bestseller, and why taking risks can lead to the most beautiful of love stories — in books and in life. Grab your favorite cozy blanket and a cup of tea; this is one conversation about life, love, and literature that you won't want to miss. Connect with Alison on her website and Instagram. Get copies of her books The Charm Offensive, Kiss Her Once for Me and Here We Go Again. Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance. More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files More about Alan via @theatre_podcast on Instagram and listen to The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales **Content warning: We do talk about mental health and suicide towards the end of this episode.  EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Alison Cochrun chose “quirky, Queer romance” because she's always loved a “Happily ever after” but after reading “The Wedding Date” by Jasmine Gulliory she wanted to start writing her own. Alison didn't always intend to write Queer books because she didn't know she was gay until she was 33. Most of her writing when she was younger was Young Adult Fantasy Writing “The Charm Offensive” helped Alison come out and embrace her Queerness From a young age Alison knew she wanted to be a writer or a teacher. Low self confidence got in the way of writing at first. In her mid twenties Alison was super risk adverse and had a massive fear of failure that turned her off of writing and taking the teaching path. Alison wrote the first draft of “The Charm Offensive” in six days - it felt like a fever dream. Sharing that messy first draft was the intentional risk Alison took that lead to what is now an international best seller. Alison writes very personal stories and, thus, gives a lot of herself to the audience when she writes a book. Writing characters that are based on different parts of herself allowed Alison to develop a beautiful feedback loop between herself and readers. It allowed her to continue to be more vulnerable in her writing. Alison shares that there is a lot of writing that happens that isn't writing. It's about getting to know your characters and really understand them. Alison is a big fan of former Was It Chance guest, Venessa Kelley who has done art for Alison's work. Advice to up and coming writers: write the story you want to write - there are readers out there! Trust yourself. Winning the Lambda Literary award for best LGBTQ Romance in 2023 was an amazing moment in Alison's life. She is currently finding opportunities to teach writing and stretch her writing skills in new genres. Leaving her teaching career to be a full time writer was the greatest risk of Alison's life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A.M. Edition for March 15. WSJ reporter Liza Lin explains how Chinese officials hope to reverse years of pandemic-induced isolation and boost the world's second-largest economy. Plus, Vladimir Putin wins another six years in office. And, U.S. federal prosecutors are investigating Meta for its role in illicit drug sales. Luke Vargas hosts. Listening on Google Podcasts? Here's our guide for switching to a different podcast player. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 3421: The Charm Offensive

Donald Trump has secured a resounding win in the first 2024 Republican presidential contest in Iowa. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have launched attacks in Iraq and Syria as concerns grow over the Gaza conflict escalating. China is sending its most significant delegation to Davos since 2017, as it looks to woo the global elite. A Polish court has blocked the dismissal of a top prosecutor by the new government. Plus, Succession and The Bear win big at the Emmys.  Listen to our special episode on Davos here. Listen to our special episode on the Iowa caucuses here. Visit the Thomson Reuters Privacy Statement for information on our privacy and data protection practices. You may also visit megaphone.fm/adchoices to opt out of targeted advertising. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Xi Jinping, the leader of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), recently traveled to the United States where he attempted to lure business back into China. It appears, however, that the charm offensive has failed. China is facing a credit crash, its manufacturing and real estate economies are crumbling, and investors are deeming China too risky to put their money in. This could have serious implications for the CCP, especially as Xi is allegedly debating bringing back lockdown policies. In this episode of Crossroads, we'll discuss these topics and others, and answer questions from the audience. Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.   ⭕️

#PRC: #Japan: ROK: Wang Yi charm offensive. Lance Gatling, principal of Nexial Research based in Tokyo,@GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill: https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/International-relations/Japan-and-China-foreign-ministers-vow-to-improve-mutual-ties 1927 Nagato

#PRC: #EU: Wang Yi tries a charm offensive for the disdainful and retreating Europe.  Theresa Fallon, director of the Center for Russia Europe Asia Studies, @GordonGChang, Gatestone, Newsweek, The Hill https://www.reuters.com/world/china/europe-should-not-shy-away-working-with-china-wang-says-2023-11-24/ 1849

Comedian Glenn Moore looks in his almanac at major world events and what he was doing at the time. In this episode, a Royal Wedding is the backdrop to a massive crisis in Glenn's own love life. Perhaps best-known for his outrageously brilliant one-liners on Mock The Week , Glenn delivers a tale of comic mishaps and extraordinary scenes interwoven with a big event in history – and looks back through his almanac to find out other strange connections to the day as well. Written by Glenn with additional material by Katie Storey (Have I Got News For You, Mock The Week, The Last Leg) and produced and directed by David Tyler (Cabin Pressure,“Armando Iannucci's Charm Offensive, and many more). A Pozzitive production for BBC Radio 4

Let's talk about Putin's diplomatic charm offensive.... --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/beau-of-the-fifth-column/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/beau-of-the-fifth-column/support

Photo: No known restrictions on publication. @Batchelorshow #Colombia: President Gustavo Petro on a charm offensive: New York, DC, Palo Alto, Bogota. Mary Anastasia O'Grady, WSJOpinion. https://www.wsj.com/articles/a-colombian-marxists-charm-offensive-venezuela-white-house-nicolas-maduro-socialism-democracy-9c2b2d12