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Courage is not loud. Sometimes it is a 13-year-old girl standing in a courtroom, promising to defend dignity no matter the cost.  Noura Ghazi's life was shaped by detention, disappearance, and resistance long before she became a human rights lawyer. Growing up in Damascus with a father repeatedly imprisoned for political opposition, she chose early to confront injustice through law rather than violence. From defending political prisoners during the Syrian revolution to marrying her husband inside a prison and later founding No Photo Zone, Noura has built a life rooted in resilience, civil rights advocacy, and unwavering belief in human dignity.  Now living in France as a political refugee, she continues her work supporting families of detainees, survivors of torture, and the disappeared. Her story is not simply about survival. It is about choosing mindset over fear, purpose over despair, and love even in the shadow of loss. This conversation invites reflection on what it means to remain Unstoppable when freedom, justice, and even safety are uncertain.  Highlights:  00:07:06 – A defining childhood moment reveals how a confrontation in a Syrian courtroom shaped Noura's lifelong commitment to defending political prisoners.  00:12:51 – The unpredictable nature of Syria's exceptional courts exposes how justice without standards creates generational instability and fear.  00:17:32 – The emotional aftermath of her father's release illustrates how imprisonment reshapes entire families, not just the person detained.  00:23:47 – Noura's pursuit of human rights education demonstrates how intentional learning becomes an act of resistance in restrictive systems.  00:32:10 – The early days of the Syrian revolution clarify how violence escalates when peaceful protest is met with force.  00:37:27 – Her marriage inside a prison and the global advocacy campaign that followed reflect how personal love can fuel public courage.  00:50:59 – A candid reflection on PTSD reveals how trauma can coexist with purpose and even deepen empathy for others.  About the Guest:   Noura Ghazi's life has been shaped by a single, unwavering mission: to defend dignity, freedom, and justice in the face of dictatorship. Born in Damascus into a family deeply rooted in political resistance, she witnessed firsthand the cost of speaking out when her father was detained, tortured, and disappeared multiple times. That lived experience became her calling. Since 2004, she has defended political prisoners before Syria's Supreme Security State Court, and when the Syrian revolution began in 2011, she fully committed herself to supporting detainees and the families of the disappeared. Even after her husband, activist Bassel Khartabil Safadi, was detained, disappeared, and ultimately executed, she continued her advocacy with extraordinary resolve.  Forced into exile in 2018 after repeated threats and arrest warrants, Noura founded NoPhotoZone to provide legal aid, psychological support, and international advocacy for victims of detention, torture, enforced disappearance, and displacement across Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey. Her mission is not only to seek justice for the imprisoned and the missing, but to restore agency and hope to families living in uncertainty and trauma. Recognized globally for her courage and leadership, Noura remains committed to amplifying the voices of the silenced and ensuring that even in the darkest systems, human rights and human dignity are never forgotten.  https://nouraghazi.org/   https://nophotozone.org/   Book – Waiting by Noura Ghazi - https://www.lulu.com/shop/noura-ghazi-safadi/waiting/paperback/product-1jz2kz2j.html?page=1&pageSize=4   About the Host:  Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog.  Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards.  https://michaelhingson.com   https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/   https://twitter.com/mhingson   https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson   https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/  Thanks for listening!  Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.  Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!  Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app.  Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you are enjoying the show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. Michael Hingson  00:09 Well, welcome everyone to another episode of unstoppable mindset. Today, we get to chat with Nora Ghazi, who lives in, I believe, France right now. She was born in Syria. She'll tell us about that, and she has had an interesting life, and I would say, a life that has had lots of challenges and some treachery along the way. But we'll get to all of that, and I will leave it to her to describe most of that, but I just want to tell you all we really appreciate you being here and hope you enjoy the episode. So Nora, how are you? Noura Ghazi  00:49 Thank you, Michael, for having me in this great broadcast, doing well. Michael Hingson  00:57 Well, there you go. Well, why don't we start? I love to start this way. Why don't you tell us kind of about the early Nora, growing up and so on, where you grew up, what anything you want to talk about, regarding being a younger person and all of that and and however we want to proceed, we'll go from there. Noura Ghazi  01:17 Okay, so since I was a child, my childhood wasn't like normal, like all the kids at my age, because my father was like a leader in opposition party against the previous Syrian regime. Michael Hingson  01:34 So you were born in Syria? Noura Ghazi  01:37 Yes, I work in Damascus. I'm from Damascus, but I have some like multiple origin that I'm proud of. But yes, I'm from Damascus. So since I was five years old, my father was disappeared and because he was wanted with other, like fellows at his party and other, let's say aliens, parties of opposition against the previous regime. So he disappeared for six years, then he was detained and transferred to what was named the supreme security state court. So it was during my adultness, let's say so since I was a child like I had at that time, only one sister, which is one year younger than me, we were moving a lot. We had no place to live. So my mother used to take us each few days to stay at some, someone place, let's say so it caused to us like changing schools all, all the time, which means changing friends. So it was very weird. And at that age, okay, I I knew the words of like cause, the words of leader or dictatorship. I used to say these words, but without knowing what does it mean. Then, when my father detained, it was his ninth detention. Actually, my mother was pregnant with my brother, so my brother was born while my father was in prison. And while he was in prison, the last time he disappeared for one year, three months, he was in like a kind of isolation in security facility. Then he was referred to this court. So in one of the sessions of the trials, I had a fight with the officer who, like who was leading the patrol that bring my father and other prisoners of conscience. So at the end of this fight, I promised my father and the officer that, okay, I will grow up and become a human rights lawyer and defend political prisoners, which I did at the end. Michael Hingson  04:05 So what? What was the officer doing? He was taking people to the court. Noura Ghazi  04:12 Yes, because Okay, so there is many kind of prisons now. They became like, more familiar to like public opinion because of, like 15 years of violence in Syria. So there was, like the the central civil prison in Damascus, which we call ADRA prison, and we have said, NIA jail, military prison. So those two prisons, they were like, holding detainees in them. So they they used to bring detainees to the court in busses, like a kind of military busses, with patrol of like civil police and military police. So the officer was like. Heading the patrol that was bringing my fathers from other prison. Michael Hingson  05:05 So you, so you, what was the fight about with the officer and your father and so on? What? How? Well, yeah, what was the fight? Noura Ghazi  05:16 It's very good question, although at that time, it was a very like scary situation, but now I laughed a lot about it. Okay, so they used to to catch all the prisoners in one chain with the handcuffs. So we used to come to hug and kiss my father before entering the court. So I was doing what I used to do during the trials, or just upon the trials, and then one of the policemen, like pushed me away. So I got nervous, and my father got nervous. So the officer provoked me. He was like a kind of insulting that my father is a detainee, and he is like he's coming to this court. So I, like I replied that I'm proud of my father and his friends what they are doing. So he somehow, he threats me to detain me like my father, and at that time, I was very angry, and I curse the father Assad just in on the like in the door, at the door of the court, and there was people and and Like all the the policemen, like they were just pointing their weapon to me, and there was some moments of silence. Then they took all the detainees into the court. So at this moment, while I'm entering the court behind them, I said, I will grow up and become a human rights lawyer to defend political prisoners. Michael Hingson  07:02 What did the officers say to that? Noura Ghazi  07:06 Because they used to look to us as because we are. We were against father Assad and the dictatorship, so they used to see us, even if we are kids, as enemies. Michael Hingson  07:22 Yeah, so the officer but, but he didn't detain you. I was Noura Ghazi  07:27 only 13 years, yeah, okay, they used to to arrest the kids, but they didn't. Michael Hingson  07:37 So did the officer react to your comment? You're going to grow up to become a civil rights lawyer? Noura Ghazi  07:43 He was shocked, was he? But I don't know if he knew that I become a human yes, there at the end, yeah. Michael Hingson  07:54 And meanwhile, what did your father do or say? Noura Ghazi  07:58 He was shocked also, but he was very proud, and until now, he like every time, because I'm also like, very close to to his friends who I used to visit in prison. Then I become a human rights lawyer, and I was the youngest lawyer in Syria. I was only 22 years old when I started to practice law. So during the the revolution in Syria, which started in 2011 some of his friends were detained, and I was their lawyer also. So I'm very close to them. So until now, they remember this story and laugh about it, because no one could curse or say anything not good about father Assad or or the family, even in secret. So it's still, like, very funny, and I'm still like, stuck somehow in, like, in this career and the kind of activism I'm doing, because just I got angry of the officer 30 years ago. So at this, at that moment, I've decided what I will be in the future. I'm just doing it well. Michael Hingson  09:20 From everything I've read, it sounds like you do a good job. Noura Ghazi  09:25 I cannot say it's a job, because usually you you do a job, you get paid for your job, you go at a certain time and come back at a certain time. You do certain tasks. But for me, it's like a continuing fight, non violent fight, of course, for dignity, for freedom, for justice, right, for reveal the truth of those who were disappeared and got missing. So yes, until now, I'm doing this, so I don't have that. Are the luxury to to be paid all the time, or to be to have weekends or to work until like certain hour at night. I cannot say I'm enjoying it, but this is the reason why I'm still alive, because I have a motive to help and support other people who are victims to dictatorship and violence. Michael Hingson  10:25 So your father went into court and what happened? Noura Ghazi  10:31 He was sentenced. At the end, he was sentenced to three years in prison. And it's a funny story, another funny story, actually, because, like the other latines at that at that trial, like it was only my father and other two prisoners who sent who were sentenced to three years in prison, while other people, the minimum was seven years in Prison, until 15 years in prison. So my mother and us, we felt like we are embarrassed and shy because, okay, our father will will be released like in few months, but other prisoners will stay much longer. So it's something very embarrassing to our friends who whom their fathers got sentenced to like more. Michael Hingson  11:30 Did you ever find out why it was only three years? Noura Ghazi  11:33 We don't know because it's an exceptional court, so it's up to the judge and the judge at that time, like it's it's very similar to what is happening now and what happened after 2011 so it's a kind of continuing reality in in Syria since like 63 which was the first time my father was detained. It was in 63 just after the what they called the eighth March revolution. So my father was only 11 years old when he was detained the first time because he participated in a protest. So it's up to the judge. It's not like a real court with like the the fair trial standards. So it's it's only once you know, the judge said the sentences for each one. So two prisoners got confused. They couldn't differentiate like Which sentence to whom, so they asked like again, so he forgot, so he said them again in different way. So it's something like, very spontaneously, yeah, very just moody, not any standard. Michael Hingson  12:51 Well, so Did your father then serve the three years and was released. Or what happened? Noura Ghazi  12:58 He was released on the day that he should be released, he disappeared for few days. We didn't know what happened. Then he was released. Finally he came. We used to live with my my grandma, so I was the one who opened the door, and I saw just my father. So we we knew later that okay, he was moved again to a security facility because he refused to sign a paper that say that he will not practice any oppositional action against the authority. So he refused, yeah, yeah. Michael Hingson  13:43 Well, I mean, I'm sure there's, there's a continuing story, what happened to him after that. So he came home, Noura Ghazi  13:53 he came out to my grandma. It was a big surprise, like full of joy, but full of tears as well. Michael Hingson  14:01 And you're you were 16 now, right? Noura Ghazi  14:04 I was when he was raised. I was 15, yeah, okay, yeah. And my sister was 14. My brother was two years and a half, so for him, okay, the father is this person that we visit behind bars every Monday, not this one who stay with us. So for him, it was weird. For my brother, he was very like little kid to understand. Then my father went to to see his parents as well. Then we came back to our apartment that we couldn't live more than few months because my father was detained. So at this night, everything was very, very, very new, like because before the three years he he was disappeared for six years, so there was. Nine years. We don't live with my father, so my brother used to sleep just next to my mom, actually my sister and me, but okay, we were like a teenager, so it's okay. So my brother couldn't sleep. Because why he keep, he kept asking why my father is sleeping with us while he's not with his friend at that place. And he was traumatized for many days. But usually when, like a political prisoner released, usually, like, we have a kind of two, three weeks of people visiting the family to say, Okay, it's it's good. We're happy for you that he was released. So the first two, three weeks were full of people and like, social events, etc. Then the, the real problem started. So my father studied law, but he was fired from university for security reasons at the the last year of his study, and as he was sentenced so he couldn't work, my mother used to work, and so like suddenly he started to feel that okay, He's not able to work. He's not able to fulfill the needs of his family. He's not able to spend on the family. The problems between him and my mother started. We couldn't as like my sister and me as teenagers. We couldn't really accept him. We couldn't see that. He's the same person that we used to visit in prison. He was very friendly. We used to talk about everything in life, including the very personal things that usually daughters don't speak with fathers about it. But then he became a father, which we we we weren't used to it, and he was shocked also. So I can say that this, this situation, at least on emotional and psychological level, for me, it lasted for 15 years. I couldn't accept him very well, even my my sister and and the brother and it happens to all like prisoners, political prisoners, especially who spent long time in prison. Michael Hingson  17:32 So now is your father and well, are your father and your mother still alive? Or are they around? Noura Ghazi  17:41 They are still alive. They are still in Damascus, Michael Hingson  17:44 and they're still in Damascus. Yes, how is I guess I'll just ask it now, how is Syria different today than it was in the Assad regime, Noura Ghazi  17:56 like most of Syrians, and now we should differentiate about what Syrians will talk. We're talking so like those Syrians, like the majority of Syrians, and I'm meaning here, I'm sorry, I shouldn't be very direct. Now, the Arab Sunni Syrians, most of them, they are very happy. They are calling what happened in in last eight December, that it's the deliberation of Syria, but for other minorities, like religious or ethnic minorities, of course, it's almost the same. For me, I feel that okay, we have the same dictatorship now, the same corruption, the same of like lack of freedom of expression. But the the added that we have now is that we have Islamist who control Syria. We have extremists who control Syria. They intervene even in personal freedoms. They they are like, like, they are committing crimes against minorities, like it started last March, against alawed. It started last July, against Druze. Now it is starting against Kurdish, and unfortunately, the international community turning like an attorney, like, okay. They are okay with with it, because they want, like their own interest, their own benefits. They have another crisis in the world to take care and to think about, not Syria. So the most important for the international community is to have a stable situation in Syria, to be like, like, no kind of like, no fight zone in the Middle East, and they don't care about Syrian people. And this is very frustrating for those who. Who have the same beliefs that I have. Michael Hingson  20:04 So in a lot of ways, you're saying it hasn't, hasn't really changed, and only the, only the faces and names have changed, but not the actions or the results Noura Ghazi  20:16 the faces and names, and most important, the sects, has changed. So it was very obvious for me that most of Syrians, they don't mind to be controlled by dictator. They only mind what is the sect of this dictator? Michael Hingson  20:35 Unfortunately. Well, yeah. Well, let's go back to you. So your father was released, and you had already made your decision about what you wanted to be, what how does school work over there? Did you go to a, what we would call a high school? Or how does all that work? Noura Ghazi  20:58 Yeah, high school, I was among the like the student who got the highest score in Damascus. I was the fourth one on Damascus when I finished. We call it back like Baccalaureate in Syria, which came from French. And I studied law, and I was also very, like, really hard, hard study person. So I was graduated in four years. Actually, nobody in Syria used to finish studying law in Damascus University only in four years. Like some people stayed more than 10 years because it it was very difficult, and it's different than like law college or law school or university of law, depending on the country, than other countries, because we only like study law. Theoretically, we don't have any practice because we were 1000s of students, it was the like the maximum university that include students. And I registered immediately in the Bar Association in Damascus, and I started because we have, like, a kind, it's, it's similar to stage for two years, like under the supervision of another lawyer who was my uncle at the first and then we we have to choose a topic in certain domain of flow, to write a kind of book which is like, it's similar to thesis, to apply it, to approve it, and then to have the kind of interactive examination, then we have the the final graduated. So all of them to be like a practice lawyer. It's around six years, a little bit more. So my specialist was in criminal law, and my thesis, what about what we call the the impossible crime. It was complicated topic. I have to say that in Syria at that time, I'm talking about end of of 90s, beginning of 2000 so we don't have any kind of study related to human rights. We weren't allowed even to spell this word like human rights. So then in 2005 and 2006 I started to study human rights under international laws related to human rights in Jordan. So I became like a kind of certified human rights defenders and the trainer also, Michael Hingson  23:47 okay, and so you said you started practice and you finished school when you started practice, when you were 22 Yes, okay, I'm curious what, what were things like after September 11, of course, you know, we had the terrorist attacks and so on. Did any of that affect anything over in Syria, where you lived, Noura Ghazi  24:15 of course, like, we stayed talking, watching the news for like four months, like until now we remember, like September 11. But you know, I now when I remember, it was a shock, usually for the Arab world, or Arab people like America is against the Arab world. So everything happened against it was like, this was like, let's say 2030, years ago. Everything that caused any harm to America, they celebrate it. So that. At that time, I was 19 years old, and okay, it's the first time we we hear that a person who was terrorist do like is doing this kind in in us, which is like a miracle for us. But then I started to to think, okay, they it's not an army. They are. There are civilians. Those civilians could be against the the policies of the US government. They could be like, This is not a kind of fight for freedom or for rights or for any like, really, like, fair cause. This is a terrorist action against civilians. And then we started, I'm very lucky because I'm from very educated family. So we started to think about, like, okay, bin Laden. And like, which we have a president from Qaeda now in Syria, like, you can imagine how I feel now. Like, I Okay, all the world is against al Qaeda, and they celebrated that the President in Syria is from al Qaeda. So it's, it's very it's, it's, really, it's not logical at all. But the funniest thing that happened, because, like, the name of Usama bin Laden, was keeping on every like, every one tongue. So I have my my oldest uncle. His name is Usama, and he lives in Germany for 40, more than 40 years, actually. So my brother was a child, and he started to cry, and he came to my mother and asked her, I'm afraid, is my uncle the same Usama? So we were laughing all, and we said, No, it's another Usama. This is the Usama. This is Osama bin Laden, who is like from is like a terrorist group, etc. But like this unfortunate incident started to bring to my mind some like the concept of non violence, the concept of that, okay, no civilian in any place in the world should be harmed for any reason, Because we never been told this in Syria and mostly in most of of countries like the word fight is very linked to armed fights, which I totally disagree with. Michael Hingson  27:56 Well, the when people ask me about September 11 and and so on. One of the things that I say is this wasn't a religious war. This wasn't a religious attack. This was terrorist. This was, I put it in terms of of Americans. These were thugs who decided they wanted to have their way with people. But this is not the way the Muslim the Islamic religion is there is peaceful and peace loving as as anyone, and we really need to understand that. And I realize that there are a lot of people in this country who don't really understand all about that, and they don't understand that. In reality, there's a lot of peace loving people in the Middle East, but hopefully we'll be able to educate people over time, and that's one of the reasons I tell the story that I do, because I do believe that what happened is 19 people attacked the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and so on, and they don't represent the the typical viewpoint of most people, religious wise in the Middle East. And I can understand why a lot of people think that the United States doesn't like Arabs, and I'm not sure that that's totally true, but I can appreciate what you're saying. Noura Ghazi  29:28 Yeah, I'm talking about specific communities actually, who they are, like totally against Israel, and they believe that you us is supporting Israel. So that's that's why they have their like this like attitude towards us and or like that US is trying to invest all the resources in the in the Middle East, etc. But what you were mentioning. Is really very important, because those 19 persons, they like kind of they, they cause the very bad reputation for for Muslims, for Middle Eastern because for for for other people from other countries, other culture or other religion, they will not understand that, okay, that, as you said, they don't represent Muslims. And in all religions, we have the extremist and we have those peaceful persons who keep their their religion as a kind of direct connection with God. They respect everyone, and normally in in in Syria, most of of the population like this, but now having a terrorist as a President, I'm not able to believe how there is a lot of Syrians that support him. Mm, hmm. Because when Al Qaeda started in Syria at the beginning, under the name of japet Al Nusra, then, which with July, who is now Ahmad Al shara, was the leader, and he's the leader of the country now most of Syrians, especially the the the Sunni Syrians, were against this, like terrorist groups, because the most harm they cause is for for Sunnis in Syria, because all other minorities, they will think about every Sunni that they, He or she, like, believe and behave like those, which is totally not true. Michael Hingson  31:47 Yeah, I hear you. Well, so September 11 happened, and then eventually you started doing criminal law. And if we go forward to what 2011 with the Syrian revolution? Yeah, and so what was, what was that revolution about? Noura Ghazi  32:10 It was okay. It started as a reaction against detaining kids from school. Okay, of course, this like the Syrian people, including me, we were very affected and inspired about what was happening in Egypt and Tunisia. But okay, so the security arrested and tortured those kids in their south of Syria. So people came out in demonstration to ask for their freedom and the security attack those protesters with, like, with weapons, so couple of persons died. So then it was, it started to be like a kind of revolution, let's say, yeah, the the problem for me, for lot of people like me, that the the previous Syrian regime was very violent against protesters and the previous president, Bashar Assad, he refused to listen to to to those people, he started to, like dissipated from the reality. So this like, much violence that was against us, like, I remember during some protest, there was not like, small weapon toward us. There was a tank that bombing us as protesters, peaceful, non violent, non armed protesters. So this violence led to another violence, like a kind of reaction by those who defected from the army, etc. And here, my father used to say, when the opposition started to to carry weapon in a country that, like the majority of it, is from certain religion, this could lead to a kind of Jihadist methodology. And this is what happened. So for for people like us, which we are very little comparing of like, the other beliefs of other people like we were, we started to be against the Syrian regime, then against the jihadist groups, then against that, like a kind of international, certain International, or, let's say original intervention, like Iran and Russia. So we were fighting everywhere, and no one. No one wanted us because those like educated, secular, non violent people, they. Form a kind of danger for every one of those parties. But what happened with me is that I met my late husband during a revolution at the very early of 2011 and having the relationship with me was my own revolution. So I was living on parallel like two revolution, a personal one and the public one. And then, like he was detained just two weeks before our our wedding. He was disappeared, actually, for nine months, then he was moved to the same prison that my father was in, to the central prison in Damascus that we got married in prison by coincidence. I don't know if coincidence is the right word in this situation, but my late husband was a very well known programmer and activist. So we were he was kind of, let's say, famous, and I was a lawyer and lawyer that defend human rights defenders and political prisoners. And the husband was detained, so I used to visit him in prison and visit other prisoners that I was their lawyers. And because my like, we have this personal aspect that okay, the couple that got married in prison and that, okay, I'm activist as a lawyer, and my late husband was a well known programmer. So we created a very huge campaign, a global campaign. So we invested this campaign to like, to shed the light about detention, torture, disappearance, exceptional courts, then, like also summary execution in Syria. So then, after almost three years of visiting him regularly, he disappeared again in 2015 and in 2017 I knew that he was sentenced to death, and I knew the exact date of his execution, just in 2018 which was two days ago. It was October 5. So this is what happened then. I had to leave Syria in 2018 so I left to Lebanon. Michael Hingson  37:27 So you left Syria and went to Lebanon? Noura Ghazi  37:33 Yes, the The plan was to stay only six months in Lebanon because I was wanted and I was threatened like I lived a terrible life, really, like lot of Syrians who were activists also, but the plan was that I will stay in Lebanon for six months, then I will leave to to UK because I had A scholarship to get a master in international law. But only two months after I left to Lebanon, I decided to stay in Lebanon to establish the organization that I'm I'm leading until now, which was a project between my late husband and me. Its name is no photo zone, so it was a very big decision, but I'm not regrets. Michael Hingson  38:23 You, you practice criminal law, you practiced human rights, you visited your your fiance, as it were, and then, well, then your husband in prison and so on. Wasn't all of that pretty risky for you? Noura Ghazi  38:42 Yes, very risky. I, I lived in under like, different kind of risk. Like, okay, I have the risk that, okay, I'm, I'm doing my activism against the previous regime publicly because I also, I was co founder of the First Family or victim Association in Syria families for freedom. So we, we were, like, doing a kind of advocacy in Europe, and I used to come back to Syria, so I was under this risk, but also I was under the risk of the like, going to prison, because the way to prison and the prison itself were under bombing. It was in like a point that separate the opposition militias and the regime militias. So they were bombing each other and bombing the prison and bombing the way to prison. So for three years, and specifically for like, in, let's say, 2014 specifically, I was among, like, I was almost the only lawyer that visited the prison, and I, I didn't mind this. I faced death more than 100 time, only on the way to prison, two times the person next to me in the like transportation. It's a kind of small bus. He died and fell down on me, but I had a strong belief that I will not die, Michael Hingson  40:21 and then what? Why do you think that they never detained you or or put you in prison? Do you have any thoughts? Noura Ghazi  40:29 I had many arrests weren't against me, but each time there was something that solve it somehow. So the first couple of Earths weren't actually when, when my late husband was detained, he he made a kind of deal with them that, okay, he will give all the information, everything about his activism in return. They, they canceled the arrest warrant against me. Then literally, until now, I don't know how it was solved. Like I, I had to sleep in garden with my cats for many nights. I i spent couple of months that I cannot go to any like to family, be house or to friend house, because I will cause problem for them, my my parents, my brother and sister, and even, like my sister, ex, until like just three months before the fall of the Syrian regime, they were under like, investigation By the security, lot of harassment against them so, but I don't know, like, I'm, I'm survive for a reason that I don't really realize how, Michael Hingson  41:52 wow, it, it's, it certainly is pretty amazing. Did you ever write a book or anything about all of this, Noura Ghazi  42:02 I used to write, always the only book like, let's say, literature or emotional book. It was about love in prison. Its name is waiting. And I wrote this book in English and basil. My late husband translated it. Sorry. I wrote it in Arabic, and Basset translated it into English in prison. So it was a process of smuggling the poems in Arabic and smuggling the them in English, again out of the prison. And we published the book online just after basil disappearance in 2015 then we created the the hard copies, and I did the signature in in Beirut in, like, early 2018 but like, it's, it's online, and it's a very, like light book, let's say very romantic. It's about love in prison. I'm really keen to write again, like maybe a kind of self narrative or about the stories that I lived and i i I heard during my my journey. Unfortunately, like to write needs like this a little stable situation, but I did write many like legal or human rights book or like guides or studies, etc. Michael Hingson  43:34 Now is waiting still available online? Noura Ghazi  43:37 Yes, it's still available online. Michael Hingson  43:40 Okay? It would be great if you could, if you have a picture of the book cover, if you could send that to me, because I'd like to put that in the notes. I would appreciate it if you would, okay, for sure. But anyway, so the the company you founded, what is it called Noura Ghazi  44:02 it's a non government, a non profit organization. Its name is no photo zone. Michael Hingson  44:07 And how did you come up with that name? Noura Ghazi  44:12 It was Vasil who come up with this name, because our main focus is on prisoners of conscious and disappeared. So for him, it was that okay, those places that they put disappeared in them. They are they. There is no cameras to show the others what is happening. So we should be the the like in the place of cameras to tell the world what is happening. So that's why no photos on me, like, means that prisons or like unofficial detention centers, because they're it's an all photo zone, right? Michael Hingson  44:54 And no photo zone is is still operating today. Noura Ghazi  44:58 It's still operating. We are extending our work, although, like we have lots of financial challenges because of, like, funds issues, but for us, the main issue, we provide legal services to victims of torture, detention, disappearance and their families. So we operate in Syria, Lebanon and Turkey. We are a French woman led organization, but we have registration in Turkey and Syria, and like in seven years now, almost seven years, we could provide our services to more than 3000 families who most of them are women, and they are responsible about kids who they don't have fathers. So we defend political prisoners. We search the disappeared. We provide the legal services related to personal and civil status. We provided the services related to identification documents, because it's a very big issue in Syria. Beside we provide rehabilitation, like full rehabilitation programs for survivors of detention or torture, and also advocacy. Of course, it's a very important part of our our work, even with the lack of fund, we've decided in the team, because most of the team, or all the team, they they were themselves victims of detention, or family members of victims, even the non Syrian because we have many non Syrian member in the team. So for us, it's a cause. It's not like a work that we're doing and getting paid. So we're, we're suffering this this year with the fund issues, because there is a lot of change related to the world and Syrian issues, which affected the fund policies. So hopefully we'll be, we'll be fine next year, hopefully, and we're trying to survive with our beneficiaries this year, Michael Hingson  47:02 yeah, well, you, you started receiving, and I assume no photo zone started receiving awards, and eventually you moved out of Lebanon. Tell me more about all of that. Noura Ghazi  47:16 During my journey, I I got many international recognition or a word, including two by Amnesty International. But after almost two years, like just after covid, like the start of covid, I was thinking that I should have another residence permit in another country because, like, it became very difficult for Syrians to get a residence in Lebanon. So I I moved to Turkey, and I was between Lebanon and Turkey. Then I got a call from the French Embassy in Turkey telling me that there is a new kind of a word, which is Marianne award, or Marianne program, that initiated by the French president. And they it's for human rights defenders across the world, and they will give this award for 15 human rights defender from 15 country. And I was listening, I thought they want me to nominate someone. Then they told me that the French government are honored to choose you as a Syrian human rights defender. So it was a program for six months, so I moved to Paris with my cat and dog. Then they extended the program and to become nine months. And at the almost at the end of the program, the both of Lebanese and Turkish authorities refused to renew my residence permit, so I had to stay in France to apply for asylum and a political refugee currently. Michael Hingson  49:10 And so you're in France. Are you still in Paris? Noura Ghazi  49:13 I'm still yes in Paris. I learned French very fast, like in four months. Okay, I'm not perfect, but I learned French. Michael Hingson  49:25 So what did your dog and cat think about all that? Sorry, what did your dog and cat think about moving to France? Noura Ghazi  49:33 They are French, actually, originally, they are friends. Michael Hingson  49:36 Oh, there you go. Noura Ghazi  49:38 My, my poor dog had like he he was English educated, so we used to communicate in English. Then when I was still in Lebanon, I thought, okay, a lot of Syrians are coming to my place, and they don't speak English, so I have to teach him Arabic. Then we moved to Turkish. So I had to teach him Turkish. Then we came to. France. So now my dog understand more than four languages, Michael Hingson  50:06 good for him, and and, of course, your cat is really the boss of the whole thing, right? Noura Ghazi  50:12 Of course, she is like, the center of the universe, Michael Hingson  50:16 yeah, yeah, just ask her. She'll tell you. And she's Noura Ghazi  50:20 very white, so she is 14 years. Oh, it's old, yes. Michael Hingson  50:29 Well, I have a cat we rescued in 2015 we think she was five then. So we think that my cat is 15 going on 16. So, and she moves around and does very well. Noura Ghazi  50:46 Yeah, my cat as well. Michael Hingson  50:49 Yeah. Well, that's the way it should be. So with all the things that you've been dealing with and all the stress, have you had? Noura Ghazi  50:59 PTSD, yes, I started, of course, like it's the minimum, actually, I have PTSD and the TSD, and I started to feel, or let's say, I could know that the what is happening with me is PTSD two years ago. I before, like, couple of months before, I started to feel like something unusual in my body, in my mind. At the beginning, we thought there is a problem in the brain. Then the psychologist and psychiatrist said that it's a huge level of PTSD, which is like the minimum, and like, we should start the journey of of treatment, which is like the behavior treatment and medical treatment as well. Like, some people could stay 10 years. Some people need to go to hospital. It's not the best thing, but sometimes I feel I'm grateful that I'm having PTSD because I'm able to deal with people who are in the same situation. I could feel them, understand them, so I could help them more, because I understand and as a human rights defender and like victim of lot of kind of violations, so I'm very aware about the like, let's call it the first aid, the psychological first aid support. And this is helpful somehow. Okay, I'm suffering, but this suffering is useful for others Michael Hingson  52:47 well and clearly, you are at a point where you can talk about it, which says a lot, because you're able to deal with it well enough to be able to talk about it, which I think is probably pretty important, don't you think? Noura Ghazi  53:03 Yeah, actually, the last at the first time I talked about it very publicly in a conference in Stockholm, it was last October, and then I thought it's important to talk about it. And I'm also thinking to do something more about PTSD, especially the PTSD related to to prisons, torture, etc, this kind of violations, because sharing experience is very important. So I'm still thinking about a kind of certain way to to like, to spread my experience with PTSD, especially that I have lot of changes in in my life recently, because I got married again, and even the the good incident that people who have PTSD, even if they have, like good incident, but it cause a kind of escalation with PTSD, Michael Hingson  54:00 yeah, but you got married again, so you have somebody you can talk with. Noura Ghazi  54:06 Yes, I got married five months ago. The most important that I could fall in love again. So I met my husband in in Paris. He's a Lebanese artist who live in Paris. And yeah, I have, I have a family now, like we have now three cats and a dog and us as couple. But it's very new for me, like this kind of marriage, that a marriage which I live with a partner, because the marriage I used to is that visit the husband in prison. I'm getting used to it. Michael Hingson  54:43 And just as always, the cat runs everything, right? Yes, of course, of course. So tell me about the freedom prize in Normandy. Noura Ghazi  54:55 Oh, it was like one of the best thing I had in my life. I. Was nominated for the freedom prize, which is launched by usually they are like young people who who nominate the the nominees for this prize, but it's launched by the government of Normandy region in France and the International Institute for Human Rights and peace. So among hundreds of files and, like many kind of round of, like short listing, there was me, a Belarusian activist who is detained, and a Palestinian photographer. So like, just knowing that I was nominated among more than 700 person was a privilege for me. The winner was the Palestinian photographer, but it was the first time they invite the other nominee to the celebration, which was on the same date of like liberating Normandy region during the Second World War. So I chose, I thought for my for couple of days about what I will wear, because I need to deliver a message. So I, I I came up with an idea about a white dress with 101 names in blue. Those names are for disappeared and detainees in Syria. So like there was, there was seven persons who worked on this dress, and I had the chance to wear it and to deliver my message and to give a speech in a very important day that even like those fighters during the Second World War who are still alive, they they came from us. They came from lot of countries. I had the privilege to see them directly, to touch them, to tell them thank you, and to deliver my message in front of an audience of 4500 persons. And it's like I love this dress, and like this event was one of the best thing I had in my life. Michael Hingson  57:21 Do you have a picture of you in the dress? Yes, I would think you do. Well, if you want, we'd love to put that in the show notes as well, especially because you're honoring all those people with the names and so on. Kind of cool. Well, okay, so, so Syria, you're, you're saying, in a lot of ways, hasn't, hasn't really changed a whole lot. It's, it's still a lot of dictatorship oriented kinds of things, and they discriminate against certain sex and and so on. And that's extremely unfortunate, because I don't think that that's the impression that people have over here, Noura Ghazi  58:02 exactly I had a chance to visit Syria, a kind of exceptional visit by the French government, because, as political refugees were not allowed to visit our country of origin. And of course, like after eight years, like out of Syria after six years without seeing my family. Of course, I was very happy, but I was very traumatized, and I I came back to Paris in in July 21 and since that time, I feel I'm not the same person before going to Syria. I'm full of frustration. I feel that, okay, I just wasted 14 years of my life for nothing. But hopefully I'm I'm trying to get better because okay, I know, like much of human rights violations mean that my kind of work and activism is more needed, yeah, Michael Hingson  59:03 so you'll so you'll continue to speak out and and fight for freedom. Noura Ghazi  59:10 Yes, I continue, and I will continue fighting for freedom, for dignity, for justice, for civil rights, and also raising awareness about PTSD and how we could invest even our pain for the sake of helping others. Michael Hingson  59:29 Well, I want to tell you that it's been an honor to have you on the podcast, and I am so glad we we got a chance to talk and to do this because having met you previously, in our introductory conversation, it was very clear that there was a story that needed to be told, and I hope that a lot of people will take an interest, and that it will will allow what you do to continue to grow, if people would like to reach out to you. And and help or learn more. How do they do that? Noura Ghazi  1:00:05 We you have the the link of my website that people could connect me, because it includes my my email, my personal email, and I always reply. So I'm happy to to talk with the to contact with people, and it also include all the all my social media, Michael Hingson  1:00:23 right? What? What's the website for? No photo zone. Noura Ghazi  1:00:27 It's no photo zone.org. No photo zone.org. Michael Hingson  1:00:30 I thought it was, but I just wanted you to say it. I wanted you to say it. Noura Ghazi  1:00:35 It's included in my website. Michael Hingson  1:00:37 Yeah, I've got it all and and it will all be in the show notes, but I just thought I would get you to say no photo zone.org Well, I want to thank you for being here. This has been a wonderful time to have a chance to talk, and I appreciate you taking the time to, I hope, educate lots of people. So thank you very much for doing that, and I want to thank all of you for listening and watching. We'd love you to give us a five star rating. Give us a review. We really appreciate ratings and reviews. So wherever you're watching or listening to this podcast, please give us a five star rating. Please review the podcast for us. We value that, and I know that Nora will will appreciate that as well. Also, if you if you know any guests, and Nora you as well, if you know anyone who you think ought to be a guest on the podcast, we would really appreciate it. If you would let us know you can reach me. At Michael M, I, C, H, A, E, L, H, I at accessibe, A, C, C, E, S, S, i, b, e.com, love to hear from you. Love to hear your thoughts about the podcast. So Nora, very much my I want to thank you again. This has been great. Thank you very much for being here. Noura Ghazi  1:01:56 Thank you Michael, and thank you for those who are listening, and we're still in touch.

https://vimeo.com/1147139373?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci You live in a world that most people do not realize is completely upside down and what we think is success is actually tearing us apart on the inside. We’re empty and we're seeking something meaningful, something sacred. And when we find that shamanic path, we enter a doorway into a completely altered reality where life shows up extremely differently, more beneficially with more guidance, with more support, with more mystical moments and revelations. With a connected web of life all around us. Today's guest, Angell Deer is a mystic medicine man and an author of the newest book, Becoming the Medicine. He shares so many beautiful shamanic tools and experiences to get you started on your path of opening up this right side up world for yourself. Join us to find out more! Angell Deer is trained as a veterinarian, medicine man, animist teacher, ordained minister, beekeeper, herbalist, reiki master, breathwork practitioner, and meditation teacher, international speaker, and sacred disruptor.  Angell has dedicated his life to remembering and transmitting ancient wisdom. He has over two decades of spiritual and ecological work as a steward of The Sanctuary, an intimate refuge located in The Catskills. He is the founder of the New York Bee Sanctuary. Angell Deer has served as an advisor to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).   Angell Deer is the founder of Sacred Paths, a Shamanic school with programs to honor the paths of The Earthwalker, The Firekeeper and The Stargazer.  He offers wisdom talks, mentoring and coaching, meditations, shamanic healing as well as several courses and events. Angell Deer is also the author of The Sacred Web: The Magical Craft of Your Sacred Shamanic Space and most recently, Becoming the Medicine. Watch or listen to the show to learn how to use shamanic tools and experiences to have more mystical moments and revelations in your life. You’re Invited! READ: Becoming the Medicine https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Medicine-Sacred-Shamanic-Practice/dp/B0G25F2YQ5/ ANGELL DEER BIO Angell Deer is a devoted steward of rewilding projects across the U.S. and Europe. He walks the path of Andean Cosmology and Norse Shamanism, learning from elders, communing with the land, and listening for the old songs that still live in the trees, the bones, and the breath.  A weaver of stories, people, and worlds, he teaches from the fertile ground where grief meets grace, and where purpose is forged in the fire of personal and planetary transformation. His work calls us back to a more-than-human world, where healing is relational, and prayer is made with both hands in the soil.  He has spoken at Harvard Business School, the French Embassy in New York, and global gatherings such as the French Davos Forum and the Concert for Earth, where he was honored as an “Earth Rockstar.”  He now lives with his wife and children at La Ferme du Cerf Bleu, a renovated 18th-century farm in Burgundy, France, in devotion to land, community, and the mystery—tending to trees, bees, and ancestral ceremony. LINKS Web: https://www.sacredpaths.earth/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/AngellDeer.SacredPaths Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thesanctuaryny Substack: https://substack.com/@angelldeerwisdom YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSOoF-w9d3Y9_-2dXNImjqQ YOUR GUIDE TO SOUL NECTAR: KERRI HUMMINGBIRD Kerri Hummingbird, Medicine Woman, Mother and Mentor, is the Founder of Inner Medicine Training, a Mystery School that shares potent ancient traditions from the Andes and Himalayas for owning your wisdom and living your purpose. She is the #1 international best-selling author of “Inner Medicine: Becoming One with Mother Earth for the Survival of Humanity”, “Love Is Fierce: Healing the Mother Wound”, “The Second Wave: Transcending the Human Drama” (on the int'l bestseller charts for over 6 years) and the award-winning best-selling book “Awakening To Me: One Woman's Journey To Self Love” which describes the early years of her spiritual awakening. As the host of Soul Nectar Show, Ms. Hummingbird inspires people to lead their lives wide awake with an authenticity, passion and purpose that positively impacts others. As a healer and mentor, she catalyzes mind-shifts that transform life challenges into gifts of wisdom. If you are wondering what the heck is going on, the answer is simple. We are in the process of a massive shift in consciousness that can most aptly be described as the metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. As a medicine woman, I guide you to the next deepest understanding and embodiment of yourself as a spiritual being. Whether you receive a shamanic healing session, participate in the Reinvent Yourself Training program, or join us for Inner Medicine Training, one thing is certain: you will connect more deeply with your true self and learn to navigate the changes in your life from an empowered space within. SCHEDULE A FREE DISCOVERY SESSION: https://tinyurl.com/SoulNectarChat JOIN SOUL NECTAR TRIBE! https://kerrihummingbird.com/membership In Soul Nectar Tribe, we are joining forces to influence a new conversation on the planet…one that respects and honors all of life and looks forward seven generations to ensure the consequences of our actions are what we choose to create for our descendents. When we join our sparks together in community and comraderie, we become a powerful beacon of light and hope. FREE GIFTS! 1. Receive the free Reinvent Yourself ebook and guided meditations at http://www.kerrihummingbird.com/gift 2. Receive the Second Wave Guided Meditation Pack for free at http://www.thesecondwave.media LINKS FOR KERRI HUMMINGBIRD Website: www.kerrihummingbird.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerri.hummingbird.sami Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerri.hummingbird/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@soulnectarshow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrihummingbird/

In this episode, Heimo Scheuch welcomes French Ambassador Matthieu Peyraud for an insightful discussion about the French market, wienerberger's activities in France, and the broader economic and industry-specific context. Together, they explore how Franco–Austrian business relations contribute to sustainable growth, highlight opportunities in the construction and infrastructure sectors, and reflect on the shared challenges and innovations shaping the future of Europe's built environment. Follow Heimo Scheuch on Instagram: instagram.com/heimoscheuch Visit our Corporate Website: wienerberger.com Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/wienerberger Follow us on Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/wienerberger

Abba Mark's teaching pierces the heart because it strips away our worldly sense of “justice” and places us before the wisdom of the Cross. The lawyer's questions are not unlike our own: What do we do when wronged? What about fairness? What about the law? But the Elder directs him beyond human reasoning toward the spiritual law of Christ. For the world, the offense is external, and the “solution” is measured by punishment and recompense. For the ascetic, the wound of injustice exposes what is hidden in the heart. If resentment rises, then the wrong is ours as much as the other's. To forgive is not indulgence or naiveté—it is participation in the very judgment of God, who alone knows how to weigh every soul. Vengeance, on the other hand, is a kind of blasphemy: it accuses God of judging wrongly, and so it becomes a heavier sin than the original injury. Here the Evergetinos reveals the paradox of the Gospel: to suffer wrong with gratitude is not weakness but true knowledge. To pray for those who wrong us confounds the demons and makes us sons of the Crucified. The magistrate may punish, but the monk endures; the court may balance debts, but love “endures all things.” The Elder's words burn away excuses. To forgive is not optional—it is the very condition of our own forgiveness. To harbor vengeance is to live in fantasy, enslaved to illusions of fairness. But to embrace affliction as one's own and to entrust judgment to God is to step into the reality of mercy, where the only true justice is love. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:06:42 Adam Paige: Philokalia combined volume 1 to 5 by Nun Christina is indeed 825 pages long 00:06:54 Anna: I'm looking for The Philokalia St. Peter of Damascus 00:07:57 Bob Čihák, AZ: One of our current books is “The Ascetical Homilies of Saint Isaac the Syrian, revised 2nd Edition” 2011, published by Holy Transfiguration Monastery, https://www.bostonmonks.com/product_info.php/products_id/635 . This hard-covered book is on the expensive side but of very high quality. 00:09:53 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 287, D 00:17:59 jonathan: st nick 00:18:02 Adam Paige: Jolly ol St Nick 00:18:30 Una: Santa Clause! 00:25:56 Nina and Sparky: It is a hard teaching, but it matches 1 Cor 6:7 Now indeed [then] it is, in any case, a failure on your part that you have lawsuits against one another. Why not rather put up with injustice? Why not rather let yourselves be cheated? 00:26:19 Nina and Sparky: Sorry, It is Forrest! 00:31:35 Rick Visser: Should we not protest injustice? 00:37:44 Anthony: The decision of the Opus Dei Priest in the movie There Be Dragons has been one of my examples 00:38:21 Maureen Cunningham: What happens if you do not like them . How can you love them ?? 00:41:08 Bob Čihák, AZ: Yet Christ threw over the tables of the money changers in the Temple, and maybe did even more? 00:43:35 Maureen Cunningham: Nelson Mandela  when went prisons. They were so hateful 00:44:57 Catherine Opie: I used to be an avid protestor and activist until one day at an anti nuclear protest outside the French Embassy in London I realised I was getting angry with people and pointing the finger at others when I lacked a great deal myself and am far from perfect. So who am I to rage at others?  After my conversion to Catholicism I have realised its not up to me, I certainly am not to participate in evil or condone it and can stand firm in my principles and do positive things to help others. But that it is simply necessary to pray for those who commit evil and injustice to others just as I would pray for those suffering injustice. I find I am less angry and wound up when I know I can offer these things up to God and that its way above my job description to save the world. Activism is such a distraction. And we can be manipulated by the agendas of man through our emotions. 00:46:10 Rick Visser: Simone Weil said: "The greatest and most efficacious vehicle for social and political change is sacrificial love." 00:46:22 Catherine Opie: Reacted to "Simone Weil said: "T..." with ❤️ 00:47:18 jonathan: A Priest once told me, once you have the heart of Christ, then you can go flip tables, until then, be quite, be gentle and be peaceful. Blessed are those persecuted for my sake. Blessed are the meek, and poor in spirit. 00:47:37 Bob Čihák, AZ: Reacted to "A Priest once told m..." with

With the Zapad Military exercises occurring again near the Polish border, Dominic Bowen has Antoine Renaux on the podcast. They analyse the challenges of NATO, Russia's probing operations, NATO's response, and more importantly, NATO's preparedness. Find out more about Article 5 and the potential scenarios, why hybrid warfare and cyber attacks are the future and the geopolitical risks we are facing. Antoine Renaux is an Economic Intelligence & Geopolitics Analyst, his expertise lies in defence and security policy, economic intelligence, and geopolitical risk analysis. His career spans strategic intelligence, public affairs, and policy analysis roles across both public and private sectors, giving him a nuanced, operational understanding of complex international dynamics.His key areas of expertise lie in:OSINT & competitive intelligence in the defense industry.Policy & geopolitical analysis, including diplomatic reporting at the French Embassy's Military Representation in Austria.Event & project management, including contributions to high-profile initiatives such as the Warsaw Security Forum.His approach combines precision, strategic insight, and actionable analysis to support decision-making in high-stakes environments. Motivated by a passion for strategy and security, I aim to contribute where analytical rigour, geopolitical awareness, and clear communication can make a decisive impact.The International Risk Podcast brings you conversations with global experts, frontline practitioners, and senior decision-makers who are shaping how we understand and respond to international risk. From geopolitical volatility and organised crime, to cybersecurity threats and hybrid warfare, each episode explores the forces transforming our world and what smart leaders must do to navigate them. Whether you're a board member, policymaker, or risk professional, The International Risk Podcast delivers actionable insights, sharp analysis, and real-world stories that matter.Dominic Bowen is the host of The International Risk Podcast and Europe's leading expert on international risk and crisis management. As Head of Strategic Advisory and Partner at one of Europe's leading risk management consulting firms, Dominic advises CEOs, boards, and senior executives across the continent on how to prepare for uncertainty and act with intent. He has spent decades working in war zones, advising multinational companies, and supporting Europe's business leaders. Dominic is the go-to business advisor for leaders navigating risk, crisis, and strategy; trusted for his clarity, calmness under pressure, and ability to turn volatility into competitive advantage. Dominic equips today's business leaders with the insight and confidence to lead through disruption and deliver sustained strategic advantage.The International Risk Podcast – Reducing risk by increasing knowledge.Follow us on LinkedIn and Subscribe for all our updates!Tell us what you liked!

On this show we've talked a lot about the debate around vaccinating birds against highly pathogenic avian influenza, and the opposing views on the issue within the egg and broiler industries. For clues on how to break that deadlock, we looked to a country that experienced very similar pushback when they first started talking about vaccinating their own birds, but still managed to make it work. Charles Martins Ferreira is the Deputy Agricultural Counselor at the French Embassy in Washington. As a trained veterinarian, Charles has worked on sanitary and phytosanitary issues all over the world. Now his job specifically involves monitoring the situation with bird flu in North America. Charles joins us to talk about the French experience with HPAI, the debate surrounding vaccination, and the incredible success they've had in curbing outbreaks. We also get into the importance of post-vaccination surveillance, and how bold leadership was instrumental in getting them across the finish line. 

A summer breeze envelops the gardens of the French Embassy in Berlin. On this 14th of July, the tricolour flag flies proudly alongside its German counterpart, symbolising a friendship forged by time and history. The air is buzzing with a joyful hubbub, a mixture of French and German accents, as nearly a thousand guests gather to celebrate the national holiday. But tonight, there is a special scent in the Berlin air: the smell of sea spray, apples and crème fraîche. Tonight, France has the face of Normandy. At the centre of this excitement, Hervé Morin, President of the Normandy Region, wears a proud smile. Standing alongside his host, the French Ambassador to Germany, His Excellency François Delattre, he is not simply a distinguished guest, but the architect of a presence that is highly significant. For the ties between Normandy and Germany go beyond mere diplomatic courtesy. It is a true story of heart and reason.

Here are some pratical hints about applying for a long stay visa in French Polynesia: the three steps to follow so you can leisurely enjoy the islands. Note - this information is current as of July 2025. Summary If you're an American who wants to stay longer in French Polynesia than the standard 90-day visa allows, you must apply for a long-stay visa. However, unlike in some Caribbean nations, such as the Bahamas, you cannot simply extend your visa when it is nearing expiration. If you don't have a long-stay visa, you'll be required to leave. So, if you worry about completing boat tasks on time or if you want to explore this beautiful country longer, apply for a long-stay visa from Panama. The basics: You need to request an appointment at the French Embassy online. It takes time to complete the request, and you'll need to have documents handy. You will ultimately need to visit the Embassy three times to complete all the steps. Your request requires approval from both Panama and Papeete in Tahiti. That means it could take weeks for your visa to arrive. Finally, you'll find helpful resources in the links below. To get complete details of the process, listen to the full podcast or check out  Applying for a Long Stay Visa for French Polynesia (https://www.fit2sail.com/countdown-to-cruising/2025/5/9/applying-for-a-long-stay-visa-for-french-polynesia). Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Jacaranda's Journey - https://www.jacarandajourney.com/fp90days  SV Sabado post - https://www.svsabado.com/2024/03/28/applying-for-a-french-polynesia-long-stay-visa-from-panama/   French visa website - https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/visa-wizard#/   Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Today's episode of the Boat Galley Podcast is brought to you by Revolve Tec USA—the innovators behind the smartest tool on your boat.” Smart boaters are switching to the Revolve 3-in-1 Boating Tool—a marine-tough, extendable, floatable system that replaces your boat hook, stiff brush, and soft brush in one compact design. Whether you're docking, scrubbing the deck, or cleaning your hull, the 3-in-1 boating tool gives you more utility, less gear, and zero compromises. Ditch the clutter. Upgrade your deck setup with gear that's built to do more. Visit BoatToolPro.com and use coupon code BOAT10 to get 10% off your order today! Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig        

Here are some pratical hints about applying for a long stay visa in French Polynesia: the three steps to follow so you can leisurely enjoy the islands. Note - this information is current as of July 2025. Summary If you're an American who wants to stay longer in French Polynesia than the standard 90-day visa allows, you must apply for a long-stay visa. However, unlike in some Caribbean nations, such as the Bahamas, you cannot simply extend your visa when it is nearing expiration. If you don't have a long-stay visa, you'll be required to leave. So, if you worry about completing boat tasks on time or if you want to explore this beautiful country longer, apply for a long-stay visa from Panama. The basics: You need to request an appointment at the French Embassy online. It takes time to complete the request, and you'll need to have documents handy. You will ultimately need to visit the Embassy three times to complete all the steps. Your request requires approval from both Panama and Papeete in Tahiti. That means it could take weeks for your visa to arrive. Finally, you'll find helpful resources in the links below. To get complete details of the process, listen to the full podcast or check out  Applying for a Long Stay Visa for French Polynesia (https://www.fit2sail.com/countdown-to-cruising/2025/5/9/applying-for-a-long-stay-visa-for-french-polynesia). Subscribe to the Boat Galley Newsletter! - https://theboatgalley.com/newsletter-signup-2 Links (Amazon links are affiliate links, meaning that The Boat Galley Podcast earns from qualifying purchases; some other links may be affiliate links): Jacaranda's Journey - https://www.jacarandajourney.com/fp90days  SV Sabado post - https://www.svsabado.com/2024/03/28/applying-for-a-french-polynesia-long-stay-visa-from-panama/   French visa website - https://france-visas.gouv.fr/en/web/france-visas/visa-wizard#/   Nica email - nica@fit2sail.com Carolyn email - carolyn@theboatgalley.com Today's episode of the Boat Galley Podcast is brought to you by Revolve Tec USA—the innovators behind the smartest tool on your boat.” Smart boaters are switching to the Revolve 3-in-1 Boating Tool—a marine-tough, extendable, floatable system that replaces your boat hook, stiff brush, and soft brush in one compact design. Whether you're docking, scrubbing the deck, or cleaning your hull, the 3-in-1 boating tool gives you more utility, less gear, and zero compromises. Ditch the clutter. Upgrade your deck setup with gear that's built to do more. Visit BoatToolPro.com and use coupon code BOAT10 to get 10% off your order today! Click to see all podcast sponsors, past and present. - https://bit.ly/3idXto7 Music: “Slow Down” by Yvette Craig        

Karen Kevra was passionate about playing the flute as a child. But in college, she became disillusioned and walked away from classical music. Her long and winding journey brought her back to music, and in the process, transformed the music scene in Vermont.Karen Kevra is founder and artistic director of Capital City Concerts (CCC), which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. It has become one of Vermont's premier and most beloved chamber music series, holding concerts in Montpelier and Burlington. Kevra is a Grammy-nominated flutist who performs at each of the CCC concerts. She has shared the stage with members of the Emerson String Quartet, the Paris Piano Trio, the Borromeo String Quartet, the Boston Chamber Music Society and Trey Anastasio of Phish.Kevra has performed throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe, including performances at Carnegie Hall and the French Embassy in Washington D.C. When the Covid pandemic closed down performance venues, Kevra turned to telling stories. She launched a podcast, Muse Mentors, a series of beautifully crafted interviews with artists, activists and thinkers in which she explores the transformative role that mentors have played in their lives. She is on the music faculty of Middlebury College.Kevra credits her own mentor with changing the course of her life. As an adult, Kevra sought out a teacher, Louis Moyse, a renowned flutist, composer and co-founder of the Marlboro Music Festival. She was introduced to Moyse by Jim Lowe, the longtime arts editor of the Barre-Montpelier Times Argus, who has advised Kevra over the years. Lowe shared a recording of Moyse with the aspiring young flutist.“I'd never heard flute playing like that before, and I'd never heard music making like that before, and so that was it," says Kevra. "I finally decided to screw up my courage and pick up the phone and make a phone call to go and play for Louis Moyse, in hopes of being able to study with him.”Moyse and Kevra instantly bonded. Louis and his wife moved to Montpelier and he encouraged Kevra to launch Capital City Concerts. “Invite your friends to come and play,” he counseled. Their musical relationship blossomed into a lifelong friendship that lasted until Moyse's death at the age of 94 in 2007.Kevra says of her 25-year long music series: “These concerts are kind of a respite from all of the difficult stuff that's going on in the world and the news. We're offering a kind of salve for the soul.”

Jello again. Jack and the gang are broadcasting from Washington DC and Jack gets invited to a high-class dinner with some of the most important people in the capital.Episode 211 of The Jack Benny Show. The program originally aired on on March 15, 1936.Please email questions and comments to host@classiccomedyotr.com.Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/classiccomedyotr. Please share this podcast with your friends and family.You can also subscribe to our podcast on Spreaker.com, Spotify, iTunes, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, and Google podcasts.This show is supported by Spreaker Prime.

Hailing from Toronto, and now based in Paris, Nora has traveled the world in search of best practices of how to care best for each other. Passionate about sustainability, after much observation and research, she developed the E.I (Environmental Intelligence) principles and the E.I training program.     In 2004, She joined the French Embassy in Canada as a Senior Attaché covering the environmental and the renewable energy sector. She then joined the France International Investment Agency in 2008 (based in New York City). In the midst of the financial crisis, she lead an internal campaign promoting sustainable investments strategies.   As an expert in sustainability, Nora was named the Chief Representative for the City of London in France in 2018. In this role, she developed a multifaceted positive impact strategy redefining London's new long term ambition. As a result of her efforts, a post-Brexit strategy focused on sustainability, inclusivity, diversity, and tech for good.    Over the years, She has managed to champion sustainable development strategies within businesses, both large and small, while addressing carbon neutrality, soil regeneration and anti-waste laws at the institutional level.   In addition, Nora is a writer, writing articles for Medium, and the leading New York based sustainability publication Conscious Magazine. She is a public speaker and the Founder of  Who CAREs Chronicles.   Established in 2006, Who Cares Chronicles empowers individuals & organizations through training and strategic guidance to unlock the potential of Environmental Intelligence (EI).  This flagship program is informed by 30 years of experience in Indigenous knowledge and expertise that is merged with modern science, tech, and academia.  It mission is to equip participants to navigate the ecological and social shift by future-proofing businesses, fostering sustainable urban development, managing climate risks, safeguarding biodiversity, optimizing resource use, and becoming effective environmental leaders.   In 2020, Nora was named Leaders for Climate Action.    WHo CAREs!? Chronicles creates and provides services that are focused on good corporate and/or community driven practices, with the objective to inspire and duplicate sustainable and regenerative practices in the corporate world and beyond -- from urban agriculture, inclusivity, education, diversity, mindfulness programs and much more.  The program is offers a new and more informed level of CSR-- Corporate Social Responsibility.   According to AI results on the web, Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a business model that considers a company's impact on society and the environment. It's also known as corporate citizenship.  In general, CSR involves: Ethical behavior: Companies should be transparent and ethical in their operations.  Sustainable practices: Companies should adopt practices that reduce their environmental impact.  Stakeholder engagement: Companies should consider the needs of their customers, employees, and other stakeholders.  Legal compliance: Companies should follow the law and international norms.    Some specific examples of CSR include but are not limited to:  Reducing waste, carbon emissions, and resource consumption Implementing recycling and water conservation programs Offering environmentally-friendly products Donating to nonprofits   Nora has, indeed, created a new lexicon by curating and promoting sustainable and regenerative good practices in the corporate world and beyond. From her perspective, Curating Caring, Sustainability and Regeneration are the long lasting values behind the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility. Nora joins me today via Streamyard to discuss environmental intelligence, the climate, the ripple effect, and how we all need to care. Keywords:   Caring Community Climate Sustainability Renewables Recycling CSR Corporate citizenship   About The Host:   Dr. Shirley Madhere is a NYC-based plastic surgeon and Founder of Holistic Plastic Surgery.  This philosophy is based on a whole-body, mind, and spirit approach to beauty and incorporates wellness, integrative nutrition, functional aesthetics, and complementary medicine.   Dr. Madhere's approach to optimal outcomes in plastic surgery is through a lens of wellness, and is grounded in science and backed by ivy league medical study, research, and extensive surgical training.  View her menu of services at ElementsandGraces.com.  Consultations are available in-office, virtually, and online via Click-lift.com.   Coming soon: Dr. Madhere offers beauty on call services through Jet Set Beauty Rx, a mobile medical aesthetics unit delivering beauty in the privacy of your own home.  Reserve at JetSetBeautyRx.com. About This Podcast:   As a creative outlet and means to broaden the perspective on the “spectrum of beauty,”  Dr. Madhere created Forever F.A.B., a podcast dedicated to Fashion, the Art of living well (i.e., wellness), and all things Beauty.  Visit ForeverFABpodcast.com for past and new episodes: https://www.foreverfabpodcast.com/ .    If you enjoy listening to the Forever F.A.B. podcast, get more audio and visuals with a membership through Patreon.  Choose the Gold, Platinum, or Diamond tier for premium added content, special co-hosts, lifestyle videos, branded merchandise, and private access to Dr. Shirley's Clubhouse by visiting patreon.com/ForeverFAB.   Catch the latest episode of the Forever F.A.B. podcast on Apple podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iheartradio, Podbean, Amazon podcasts, and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.  For past episodes featuring guest star interviews, beauty product reviews and innovations in plastic surgery, visit ForeverFABpodcast.com.   Call to Action:    You may follow Nora on social: @whocareschronicles and @thequeenofcare. For more information about Nora and how you can care about the environment, please visit www.theenvironmentalintelligence.com and www.whocareschronicles.com.  *****   If you liked this episode of the Fifteen Minutes of FAB on the Forever FAB podcast, please share it and subscribe to the feed. Did you learn anything new? Review this episode by writing just one word to describe the value you got from listening today, and give this episode a five-star rating.   In case you missed it, listen to past episodes or check out who's coming up next on foreverfabpodcast.com.   If you enjoy listening to the Forever F.A.B. podcast, get more audio and visuals with a membership through Patreon.  Choose the Gold, Platinum, or Diamond tier for premium added content, special co-hosts, lifestyle videos, branded merchandise, and private access to my Clubhouse by visiting patreon.com/ForeverFAB.   If you are the Founder of or represent a beauty brand and want to be featured on an episode of the Forever FAB podcast segment of Fifteen Minutes of FAB, send me some stuff.  Visit ForeverFABpodcast.com and fill out the Contact form.   For general holistic beauty tips or to set up an appointment with me to discuss your personalized options for leveling up your beauty, go to ElementsandGraces.com and sign up for my newsletter.   And for an online e-consultation on time, anytime and on your time, visit Click-Lift.com for your wellness, plastic surgery, and beauty questions on the go.   And… if you don't want to go anywhere or leave your home, look out for Jet Set Beauty Rx offering mobile aesthetic medical services, such as injectable fillers and multi-vitamin facial treatments.  Jet Set Beauty Rx is coming to your neighborhood soon.      Useful Links:   https://consciousmagazine.co/artificial-intelligence-age-empathy/ 

Hailing from Toronto, and now based in Paris, Nora has traveled the world in search of best practices of how to care best for each other. Passionate about sustainability, after much observation and research, she developed the E.I (Environmental Intelligence) principles and the E.I training program.     In 2004, She joined the French Embassy in Canada as a Senior Attaché covering the environmental and the renewable energy sector. She then joined the France International Investment Agency in 2008 (based in New York City). In the midst of the financial crisis, she lead an internal campaign promoting sustainable investments strategies.   As an expert in sustainability, Nora was named the Chief Representative for the City of London in France in 2018. In this role, she developed a multifaceted positive impact strategy redefining London's new long term ambition. As a result of her efforts, a post-Brexit strategy focused on sustainability, inclusivity, diversity, and tech for good.    Over the years, She has managed to champion sustainable development strategies within businesses, both large and small, while addressing carbon neutrality, soil regeneration and anti-waste laws at the institutional level.   In addition, Nora is a writer, writing articles for Medium, and the leading New York based sustainability publication Conscious Magazine. She is a public speaker and the Founder of  Who CAREs Chronicles.   Established in 2006, Who Cares Chronicles empowers individuals & organizations through training and strategic guidance to unlock the potential of Environmental Intelligence (EI).  This flagship program is informed by 30 years of experience in Indigenous knowledge and expertise that is merged with modern science, tech, and academia.  It mission is to equip participants to navigate the ecological and social shift by future-proofing businesses, fostering sustainable urban development, managing climate risks, safeguarding biodiversity, optimizing resource use, and becoming effective environmental leaders.   In 2020, Nora was named Leaders for Climate Action.    WHo CAREs!? Chronicles creates and provides services that are focused on good corporate and/or community driven practices, with the objective to inspire and duplicate sustainable and regenerative practices in the corporate world and beyond -- from urban agriculture, inclusivity, education, diversity, mindfulness programs and much more.  The program is offers a new and more informed level of CSR-- Corporate Social Responsibility.   According to AI results on the web, Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a business model that considers a company's impact on society and the environment. It's also known as corporate citizenship.  In general, CSR involves: Ethical behavior: Companies should be transparent and ethical in their operations.  Sustainable practices: Companies should adopt practices that reduce their environmental impact.  Stakeholder engagement: Companies should consider the needs of their customers, employees, and other stakeholders.  Legal compliance: Companies should follow the law and international norms.    Some specific examples of CSR include but are not limited to:  Reducing waste, carbon emissions, and resource consumption Implementing recycling and water conservation programs Offering environmentally-friendly products Donating to nonprofits   Nora has, indeed, created a new lexicon by curating and promoting sustainable and regenerative good practices in the corporate world and beyond. From her perspective, Curating Caring, Sustainability and Regeneration are the long lasting values behind the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility. Nora joins me today via Streamyard to discuss environmental intelligence, the climate, the ripple effect, and how we all need to care. Keywords:   Caring Community Climate Sustainability Renewables Recycling CSR Corporate citizenship   About The Host:   Dr. Shirley Madhere is a NYC-based plastic surgeon and Founder of Holistic Plastic Surgery.  This philosophy is based on a whole-body, mind, and spirit approach to beauty and incorporates wellness, integrative nutrition, functional aesthetics, and complementary medicine.   Dr. Madhere's approach to optimal outcomes in plastic surgery is through a lens of wellness, and is grounded in science and backed by ivy league medical study, research, and extensive surgical training.  View her menu of services at ElementsandGraces.com.  Consultations are available in-office, virtually, and online via Click-lift.com.   Coming soon: Dr. Madhere offers beauty on call services through Jet Set Beauty Rx, a mobile medical aesthetics unit delivering beauty in the privacy of your own home.  Reserve at JetSetBeautyRx.com. About This Podcast:   As a creative outlet and means to broaden the perspective on the “spectrum of beauty,”  Dr. Madhere created Forever F.A.B., a podcast dedicated to Fashion, the Art of living well (i.e., wellness), and all things Beauty.  Visit ForeverFABpodcast.com for past and new episodes: https://www.foreverfabpodcast.com/ .    If you enjoy listening to the Forever F.A.B. podcast, get more audio and visuals with a membership through Patreon.  Choose the Gold, Platinum, or Diamond tier for premium added content, special co-hosts, lifestyle videos, branded merchandise, and private access to Dr. Shirley's Clubhouse by visiting patreon.com/ForeverFAB.   Catch the latest episode of the Forever F.A.B. podcast on Apple podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iheartradio, Podbean, Amazon podcasts, and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.  For past episodes featuring guest star interviews, beauty product reviews and innovations in plastic surgery, visit ForeverFABpodcast.com.   Call to Action:    You may follow Nora on social: @whocareschronicles and @thequeenofcare. For more information about Nora and how you can care about the environment, please visit www.theenvironmentalintelligence.com and www.whocareschronicles.com.  *****   If you liked this episode of the Fifteen Minutes of FAB on the Forever FAB podcast, please share it and subscribe to the feed. Did you learn anything new? Review this episode by writing just one word to describe the value you got from listening today, and give this episode a five-star rating.   In case you missed it, listen to past episodes or check out who's coming up next on foreverfabpodcast.com.   If you enjoy listening to the Forever F.A.B. podcast, get more audio and visuals with a membership through Patreon.  Choose the Gold, Platinum, or Diamond tier for premium added content, special co-hosts, lifestyle videos, branded merchandise, and private access to my Clubhouse by visiting patreon.com/ForeverFAB.   If you are the Founder of or represent a beauty brand and want to be featured on an episode of the Forever FAB podcast segment of Fifteen Minutes of FAB, send me some stuff.  Visit ForeverFABpodcast.com and fill out the Contact form.   For general holistic beauty tips or to set up an appointment with me to discuss your personalized options for leveling up your beauty, go to ElementsandGraces.com and sign up for my newsletter.   And for an online e-consultation on time, anytime and on your time, visit Click-Lift.com for your wellness, plastic surgery, and beauty questions on the go.   And… if you don't want to go anywhere or leave your home, look out for Jet Set Beauty Rx offering mobile aesthetic medical services, such as injectable fillers and multi-vitamin facial treatments.  Jet Set Beauty Rx is coming to your neighborhood soon.      Useful Links:   https://consciousmagazine.co/artificial-intelligence-age-empathy/ 

Episode 159 with Boubacar Demba Coly, who is an inspiring ecosystem builder, business and entrepreneurship coach, and tech conceptor who is leading change in Gambia's startup scene. As the project manager of the Gambia Tech Project, Boubacar is at the forefront of creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs and enabling a thriving tech ecosystem in a country often seen as challenging for business.The Gambia Tech Project, launched in partnership with the French Embassy and the Alliance Franco Banjul, is dedicated to supporting innovation through incubation, mentorship, funding, and networking. With a focus on empowering young entrepreneurs, the program has ambitious goals: coaching 50 entrepreneurs annually, incubating 10 startups, and organising global tech-entrepreneurship events to connect over 300 innovators.During this episode we explore Boubacar's journey, the mission of Gambia Tech, and the untapped potential of Gambia's youth. From fintech to agritech, hear how this initiative is turning bold ideas into successful ventures, building sustainable networks, and redefining what's possible in the region.What We Discuss With BoubacarKey lessons from building ecosystems in Senegal and how they've influenced the approach to development in Gambia.The biggest challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Gambia and potential strategies to overcome them.Strategies for helping entrepreneurs in Gambia overcome the perception of the country as an unfavourable business environment.The unique opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship presented by Gambia's young and dynamic population.Common traits and practices shared by the most successful startups on the Gambia Tech program.Did you miss my previous episode where I discuss Alternative VC Investing: Building Stronger Last-Mile Ecosystems to Drive Startup Growth in Africa? Make sure to check it out!Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps!Connect with Terser:LinkedIn - Terser AdamuInstagram - unlockingafricaTwitter (X) - @TerserAdamuConnect with Boubacar:LinkedIn - Boubacar Demba ColyTwitter (X) - @gambiatechDo you want to do business in Africa? Explore the vast business opportunities in African markets and increase your success with ETK Group. Connect with us at www.etkgroup.co.uk or reach out via email at info@etkgroup.co.ukSubscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and bonus material - Unlocking Africa Newsletter

This week, Kelly talks with the French Ambassador for Sports, Samuel Ducroquet, about the growing role of sports in diplomatic efforts. Samuel Ducroquet was appointed French ambassador for sport in February 2023. He joined the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs in 2007 as an International Civilian Volunteer at the French Permanent Mission to the EU in Brussels, and has since worked as a political advisor at the French Embassy in Qatar. His experience as an Olympic attaché at the French Embassy in Tokyo allowed him to develop a real expertise on sports diplomacy, reinforced by his position as senior manager in charge of the dignitaries programme in the International Relations Department of the Paris 2024 Games organizing committee, from 2022 to 2023. The opinions expressed in this conversation are strictly those of the participants and do not represent the views of Georgetown University or any government entity. Produced by Freddie Mallinson and Theo Malhotra. Recorded on December 2, 2024. Diplomatic Immunity, a podcast from the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University, brings you frank and candid conversations with experts on the issues facing diplomats and national security decision-makers around the world. Funding support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. For more, visit our website, and follow us on Linkedin, Twitter @GUDiplomacy, and Instagram @isd.georgetown

Dr. Samuel Jamier, Executive Director of the New York Asian Film Festival/Foundation (NYAFF), tells me about his childhood, growing up as a Korean adoptee in France and how his experiences led him to his current role of promoting stories from around the world.  He shares his thoughts about reducing stereotypes and advancing representation in film, including:  Supporting quality films with multi-dimensional characters vs. blanket support of films with actors who identify with under-represented groups Encouraging increased viewership of films with subtitles Volunteering with the NYAFF. ========================================== Bio: Dr. Samuel Jamier is a distinguished curator, producer, and the Principal of SMLX Consulting, a leading consultancy dedicated to empowering creative teams and enhancing storytelling across Asia and beyond. As the Executive Director of the New York Asian Film Festival/Foundation (NYAFF), Sam brings extensive expertise from his pivotal roles at the Japan Society, The Korea Society, and the French Embassy. After relocating to New York City from Paris in 2002, Sam began his career as a Chargé de Mission for the Cultural Services of the French Embassy, where he spearheaded the literary program. At The Korea Society, he orchestrated diverse programming initiatives, spanning from foreign policy and corporate symposia to Korean cinema and traditional performing arts. His multidisciplinary programs featured notable figures such as Bong Joon-Ho and the DPRK delegation to the UN for the NY Philharmonic's "Live from North Korea" concert. As a Senior Film Programmer at the Japan Society, he curated comprehensive film series and festivals, notably the acclaimed Japan Cuts festival. In his current role at NYAFF, Sam has transformed the festival from a niche operation focused on Kung Fu flicks and genre movies to a globally influential event, fostering industry relationships across China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Sam's work is influenced by his unique background as a Korean adoptee raised in Brittany, France. His personal journey navigating multicultural identities inspires his commitment to fostering authentic cultural representation and enhancing storytelling accuracy for global entertainment professionals.

The agency opts for wood, for bio-sourced, local materials mainly that are increasingly available, and for the circular economy. Here are two examples of unusual projects : the French embassy in Gabon & a fire station in France.By Bulle, Poirier & Justman Architectes.Read by EstherImage teaser DR © Bulle, Poirier & Justman ArchitectesSound engineering : Bastien Michel___If you like the podcast do not hesitate:. to subscribe so you don't miss the next episodes,. to leave us stars and a comment :-),. to follow us on Instagram @comdarchipodcast to find beautiful images, always chosen with care, so as to enrich your view on the subject.Nice week to all of you ! Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.

The Front to the Films podcast is thrilled to announce our latest episode featuring a conversation with Georges Strachan-Heyes, retired British Army officer and Director of Operations for the UK and NATO at Onebrief. In this episode, hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), Georges brings his exceptional insights in discussing The World War II Foundation's newest documentary, Dad's Secret War: France 1944. This gripping documentary, based on Scholars of Mayhem by Daniel C. Guiet and Timothy K. Smith, chronicles the daring World War II missions of Jean Claude Guiet, who served with Britain's Special Operations Executive (SOE) and America's Office of Strategic Services (OSS). His covert operations helped arm and organize the French Resistance in Nazi-occupied France following D-Day, ultimately shaping the Allied breakthrough in Europe. Jean Claude's “Salesman II” circuit team played a vital role in holding back German reinforcements from Normandy, a critical part of the Allied advance. As Georges recounts, Guiet's story adds a powerful chapter to the narrative of WWII, bringing to light the real risks and sacrifices made by the unsung agents operating behind enemy lines. On September 10, 2024, the Foundation held a special advance screening of Dad's Secret War at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg). It was a memorable evening attended by 150 senior active and retired members of the Special Operations and Airborne communities, along with their families. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees deeply moved by this untold story of heroism and resilience. Georges Strachan-Heyes, who served as the keynote speaker, delivered exceptional remarks that resonated with the entire audience. His speech, which was so captivating and insightful that it left the room spellbound, delved into the film's themes and explored how covert actions by the OSS and SOE transformed the course of WWII. His remarks were so impactful that we immediately invited him to share more on Front to the Films. In this podcast episode, airing as a lead-up to the formal premiere of Dad's Secret War at the French Embassy in Washington, DC, on November 14, Georges joins Colonel Rendall to discuss the importance of bringing this story to the screen. He touches on themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the meticulous training and bravery required of SOE agents. Georges also reflects on the documentary's production, which involved collaboration with the Newhouse School, offering students a hands-on opportunity to explore WWII history and contribute to historical storytelling as part of The World War II Foundation's Doccumentary, Film, Photography and History Program. Their involvement reinforces the film's dual purpose: honoring the sacrifices of WWII veterans while educating future generations on the critical lessons of the past. Following its Embassy premiere, Dad's Secret War: France 1944 will be aired nationwide on nearly 300 American Public Television channels. The film, narrated by Kevin Bacon, invites viewers into the life of Jean Claude Guiet and his comrades, revealing the profound human and historical impact of their missions in occupied France. Georges and Colonel Rendall's conversation serves as an enlightening primer for the documentary, giving listeners a rare perspective on the bravery and complexities of war, and how these untold stories resonate in today's world. Join us for this extraordinary episode of Front to the Films, where we honor those who lived and served in the shadows, and look forward to the story's reach on a national scale. This conversation is both an introduction to the documentary as well as a fitting tribute to the courage that defined the Greatest Generation.

Former Minister for Culture and Broadcaster, Ed Vaizey is sharing his Travel Secrets with Tanya Rose this week. Ed shares the many fantastic and unique places he had the privilege of visiting while working as an MP, from the Middle East to the French Embassy, the villa where you can step inside an iconic painting and the Wonder of the World that definitely is as good as it looks in photos. Don't forget to follow @travelsecretsthepodcast and remember, you can watch all of our episodes on YouTube.Places mentioned:Taj MahalOctopussy HotelLake Palace hotelRajasthanNew YorkJapanAfghanistanAbu Dhabi LouvreJoo Chiat, Singapore Nagarekawa Cho, HiroshimaFish Market, Tokyo, JapanIsrael Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beta, Ireland's festival of art and technology, will return for its second edition with a focus on interrogating the relationship between power and technology, examining how digital tools influence society and how we can take agency back in their use. Co-founded and supported by The Digital Hub, Beta will return from 1st to 17th November and will feature a series of events including two exhibitions, several interactive workshops, performances, a thought-provoking conference, and an assembly focussed on artificial intelligence and art. Cannes Film Festival winner Noire, the Unknown Life of Claudette Colvin will make its Irish debut at this year's Beta Festival. Directed by Stéphane Foenkinos and Pierre-Alain Giraud, Noire tells the real-life story of 15-year-old Claudette Colvin, who refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in a segregated 1950s Alabama through an immersive and encapsulating digital performance showing the power of storytelling through technology. Noire is presented by The Digital Hub, the French Embassy in Ireland and Institut Francais, as part of the official Novembre Numérique programme, and is supported by Smart Dublin. This year, Beta will host two exhibitions: the first Unsettling the Algorithm: Seeds of Resistance, is an international exhibition curated by Aisling Murray and Nora O' Murchú. Featuring artists including Irish-Iraqi artist Basil Al-Rawi, Tega Brain and Sam Levigne, Firas Shehadeh, Winnie Soon and Tzu-Tung Lee, Nora Al Badri and Mediengruppe Bitnik among others, the exhibition will explore how digital infrastructures and algorithms shape, influence and govern our daily lives. Separately, the Local Artists Network will spotlight emerging Irish artists with new work from Conan McIvor, Aisling Phelan, Cailean Finn, and more. Among these installations will be the interactive artwork Boogaloo Bias, which explores the dangers of unregulated use of facial recognitiontechnology particularly among law enforcement. Created by Jennifer Gradecki and Derek Curry, the project examines the practice of 'brute forcing', where law enforcement substitutes images of celebrities resembling suspects when high-quality images are unavailable and explores themes of accountability and bias in automated systems. Keynote addresses by cognitive behavioural scientist and member of the UN's AI Advisory Board Abebe Birhane and Head of Arts Technologiesat London's Serpentine Gallery Kay Watson will be delivered at the conference, while several workshops, discussions and think-ins will be hosted by ADAPT research centre, the Creative Futures Academy, Fire Station Artists' Studios and Creative Spark during the festival. Key highlights for the festival will include: Noire, the Unknown Life of Claudette Colvin tells the real-life story of the 15-year-old who refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in a segregated 1950's Alabama in a near-mirror event to that of Rosa Parks, told through an immersive digital performance. Noire won the inaugural award for Best Immersive Experience at Cannes Film Festival earlier this year and the production is brought to Ireland by the Beta Festival and The Digital Hub, in association with the French Embassy and Institut Francais, and is supported by Smart Dublin. Noire will make its Irish debut at the Samuel Beckett Theatre from 7th - 10th November. Assembly on Art and AI will bring together AI researchers, policy makers, cultural leaders and artists to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on arts and culture and identify challenges and opportunities to fuel a rolling agenda of areas to consider when creating policy centred on AI. Cold Call, a call centre created by Tega Brain and Sam Lavigne that reimagines carbon offsetting, by transforming the concept of time theft - a form of resistance where employees deliberately slow productivity - into a carbon-saving strategy aimed at high-emission companies. Through the call centre, viewers are encouraged to call fos...

Dare to Dream with Debbie Dachinger Guest, Angell Deer, a mystic, medicine man, teacher, permaculturist, beekeeper & international speaker. He's dedicated his life to remembering & teaching ancient wisdom through the lineages of Andean Cosmology & Norse Shamanism. Angell's journey from the corporate world to becoming a shaman. Andean Cosmology and Norse Shamanism - two powerful traditions This week I featured ANGELL DEER: Andean & Norse Mystic Medicine Man creating Sacred Shamanic Space! Click above to watch it now.

Highlights: 1. Andean cosmovision as a point of convergence to a sacred link2. Norse Shamanism's use of divination, healing ceremonies, magic and trance work3. What makes a space sacred, so it impacts our spiritual journey?4. Insights on Inca Andean CosmologySubscribe, Like and Comment!My guest, Angell Deer is the founder of The Sanctuary, a revered Shamanic Healing Center nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, New York. He is the author of the book, "The Sacred Web: The Magical Craft of Your Sacred Shamanic Space." Angell creates a haven for individuals seeking connection with nature and ancient wisdom teachings. Additionally, he serves as the Founder and Executive Director of The New York Bee Sanctuary. Through his advocacy, research, and education initiatives, he has championed the cause of bee conservation on local and global scales. Angell's career, however, began in the corporate world - with over two decades of experience in leadership roles within the luxury retail and sustainability industries. Angell reached the pinnacle of corporate success which was accompanied by a profound realization that the life he had built was lacking meaning. He embarked on a deeper exploration of spirituality and holistic wellness. Drawn to the ancient wisdom of Andean Cosmology and Norse Shamanism, Angell immersed himself and embraced his purpose as a shaman, mystic, and healer. His unique journey has led him to become a sought-after international speaker, sharing his insights on spirituality, wellness, and environmental stewardship. Angell has spoken in front of global audiences at the French Embassy in New York, at Harvard Business School, and at Parson School of Design in NYC. Learn more at: ⁠https://www.thesanctuaryheal.com/⁠"Dare to Dream" podcast, with host, Debbi Dachinger, offers cutting-edge conversation on metaphysics, quantum creating, channeling, healing, UFO's, paranormal and extraterrestrials.Join Debbi on Instagram: ⁠@daretodreampodcast⁠ and @⁠debbidachinger⁠My gift to you: Free Starseed Report and Video: ⁠https://www.galactic-shaman.com/⁠ which includes~ • a Starseed Video and Report. You will deep dive into 19 different Starseeds – each species has its own gifts, career, and purpose. Find your galactic origins in this mind-blowing information.♥New program: Join the 'Animal Spirit Medicine' Shamanic Healing Program: ⁠https://www.myvisibility.site/shamanic⁠ Begin a profound journey in the sacred, mystical realm of animal beings who've chosen to share their wisdom here on Earth.#debbidachinger #DareToDream #podcast #spirituality #AngellDeer #spiritual #shaman #sacred #NorseShamanism #AndeanCosmo #Inca #TheSanctuary #sacredness #magic #SacredShamanSpace #MedicineMan #ascension #permaculturist #beekeeper #AncientWisdom #AndeanCosmology #Starseed #mysticBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dare-to-dream-with-debbi-dachinger--1980925/support.

On a Wednesday morning, the Wisconsin Bug Guy, State Entomologist PJ Liesch, has advice to reduce mosquito populations around the home and farm. Thinking about having an auction? Steffes Group, Inc. recommends giving yourself ample time to spread the word. Paid for by Steffes. Wisconsin State Fair is having a birthday party celebration for the Cream Puff on Aug. 10 with a unique new flavor, according to Kristi Chuckel. The world is watching France because of the Olympics, but before athletes arrived, headlines were talking about farmer protests. Christian Ligeard with the French Embassy explains why.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered how market psychology shapes investment strategies? In our latest episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Laurent Bernut, whose extensive career spans from the diplomatic halls of the French Embassy to the fast-paced realm of Japanese capital markets and hedge funds. Laurent takes us through Japan's economic landscape, describing the current inflation, a weakening yen, and an ongoing real estate surge. He also sheds light on the investment opportunities within Japan's craftsmanship industries and the evolving openness towards foreign capital. Whether you're an investor or merely a market enthusiast, Laurent's insights offer a treasure trove of valuable information.Shifting gears, we explore the intricate dance between bull and bear markets with a focus on sector rotation and understanding beta. Laurent details how different sectors, such as consumer staples and technology, react to market changes and why adjusting long and short positions is crucial for risk management. We delve into the concept of net beta versus net exposure, offering strategies to optimize investment performance amidst fluctuating markets. If you've ever been curious about the mechanics of stock performance and the importance of market regimes, this segment is packed with actionable insights.To wrap things up, we delve into the psychological dimensions of trading, particularly the concept of toxic shame and its profound impact on traders. Laurent shares compelling personal anecdotes, showing how self-worth can either fuel success or lead to self-sabotage. We also tackle the challenges of short selling in volatile markets and why position sizing is vital. As a special treat, Laurent gives us a preview of his upcoming book and the invaluable lessons it promises. This episode is a must-listen for anyone keen on understanding the deep connections between market dynamics and trading psychology. Don't miss out!The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It's social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world's first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today:

If you think back to international headlines this spring, you might remember seeing French farmers riding their tractors, not in the field, but in the streets of Paris. They were protesting the European Union's environmental regulations. France is the No. 1 agricultural producer in the EU. French Embassy Agricultural Counselor Christian Ligeard says the Farm to Fork strategy for agriculture under the European Union's Green Deal aims to reduce pesticide usage by 50 percent by 2030. He explains that growers cannot make those cuts in that timeframe and still be profitable. Ligeard says farmers in France embrace sustainability initiatives, but they are asking the EU to implement a more reasonable timeline to cut back inputs. They also want to see research on alternative pesticide solutions for them to use. They do like the incentive-based, voluntary approach of sustainability here in the U.S. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hamas Supreme Leader Ismail Haniyeh agreed to a cease-fire proposal. Today marks Holocaust Remembrance Day, a day to commemorate the 6 million Jewish lives lost in WWII, and the survivors. And among those gearing up for the 2024 Olympic games is the Vatican and the French Embassy to the Holy See.

Google tells me that the idea on Gentle Parenting has been around since 1930. The internet is now leveraging on its popularity including big media houses like the Times of India who recently , well , precisely on 26th March '24 published a photostory with the title that goes ' Why Gentle Parenting is not for Indian Kids'! This one poorly argued photostory had many FB groups and mom channels in uproar with the complaint of how rigid the idea behind this photostory has been.Gentle parenting has been my approach too and more like respectful parenting and my ally in this has been Shailaja Paramathma, a dear friend from the times when I was trying to work my hand at writing. Shailaja has worked in the core administration team and also as the Admin head for different establishments for a period spanning over a decade. Wearing different hats in her career, she has been an English teacher, having worked for the French Embassy as well as a Journalist for a few years before she embraced Parenting as her full time occupation. We decided to go ahead and disseminate this story and present our counter arguments based on real life experiences in an intimate and fun filled conversation today.Find TOI photostory  HERESupport the showPrepare for Birth, explore Prenatal and Postnatal Preparation Classes, visit www.birthagni.comSupport the show: If you like what you hear, leave us a rating on Spotify app and answer the question at each episode! a review on Apple podcasts. Share on Whatsapp/Insta/FB Share on Insta and tag us @divyakapoorvox Support the production by making a donation at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/birthagni. This ensures the continuity and quality and a good coffee on sleepless recording nights! Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at https://www.birthagni.com/#subscribe and receive DISCOUNTS, SALE updates and GIFTCARDS on our premium 'Own your Birth' program You can book a 20 min FREE Discovery call at https://www.birthagni.com/bookfreesession ...

Susan Baer doesn't shrink when people complain that other businesses are cheaper. After 30 successful years in business, Susan teaches us how to build relationships, articulate our value and know our worth. Are you tired of accepting less? Allow Susan's wisdom to wash over you. If you want to learn more about personal as well as financial empowerment, this episode is for you!About Guest, Susan Baer. After living in Europe in her 20's, and volunteering at the English Speaking Feminists of Geneva, Susan moved back to the US, and landed a job at the French Embassy in Washington, DC. Susan then worked at a start-up international company, and a computer training company. These jobs led her to the work she has been doing for the past 30 years when she started her own company, CEO and Founder of Baer Technology,  teaching computers to residential and corporate clients. About Host, Alicia Sutton. Alicia was a media lawyer for a decade in New Zealand and the UK, as well as a professional film and theatre actress, and a Global Corporate Facilitator and Executive Coach. Alicia has delivered over 300 training programmes around the world on personal impact, mindset, communication and leadership skills.Find out more about Alicia https://www.aliciajanesutton.comConnect with Alicia on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aliciajanesutton/Connect with Alicia on LinkedIn https://nz.linkedin.com/in/aliciajanesuttonConnect with Alicia on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AliciaSuttonFB/Find out more about Susan https://www.baertechnology.comConnect with Susan on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/baertechnology/Connect with Baer Technology on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/baertechnologyinc/ Connect with Baer Technology on Instagram https://www.facebook.com/baertechnology/Give Susan a Call! US (202) 364-1000Support the show

Was Napoleon a military dictator, or a man who did what was necessary in order to preserve a French republic that was crumbling? To discuss the coup in which Napoleon became "First Consul" of France, Dana is joined by Pascal Confraveaux from the French Embassy.Support Noble Blood:— Bonus episodes, stickers, and scripts on Patreon— Noble Blood merch— Order Dana's book, 'Anatomy: A Love Story' and its sequel 'Immortality: A Love Story'See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the D-Suite, Gartner experts share their data, analytics and AI predictions for 2024 and beyond. In the second part of this episode, we show insights from Ericsson's head of AI and automation, Rickard Wieselfors, on the role of generative AI (GenAI) for digital transformation.The predicts featured are:00:00:54 By 2026, 75% of CDAOs who fail to make organizationwide influence and measurable impact their top priority will be assimilated into technology functions. 00:05:54 By 2026, 90% of organizations will suffer more than 10 production-impacting events annually due to insufficient GenAI skills and testing investments.00:09:33 By 2025, use of natural language as a primary data management API will be the dominant interface leading to a 100x consumption of data across the ecosystem.00:13:22 By 2025, 90% of current analytics content consumers will become content creators enabled by AI. Jorg Heizenberg is a Gartner VP Analyst in D&A CDAO Leadership and Operations. Jorg explores data and analytics (D&A) trends and best practices with a human-centric focus. His primary coverage areas are the D&A strategy and operating model; data-driven culture and behavior; D&A organizations, roles, and skills. He has a background in D&A business and technology consulting with over three decades of experience in planning, designing, and implementing D&A. His motto: D&A is about people!Ehtisham Zaidi is a Gartner VP Analyst in D&A Data Architecture and Solutions. Ehtisham focuses his research on data management architecture and solutions. His coverage areas include data fabric architectures, data mesh operating models, data engineering as a discipline, and data integration architecture and technology. His recent research focus has been around the incorporation of GenAI in data management technology to improve productivity of data resources. He believes in “making data easy” and enabling “data management for the masses.”Edgar Macari is a Gartner Director Analyst in D&A Business Analytics and Data Science. Edgar specializes in guiding organizations to democratize data and analytics (D&A), maximizing the value derived from their investments in this field. His expertise spans key areas, including D&A strategy, self-service analytics, augmented analytics, analytics and business intelligence (ABI) platforms, data literacy, and cultural change. His recent research explores the profound impacts of AI on democratizing D&A. His motto: D&A is a team sport — don't play alone!Erick Brethenoux is a Gartner Distinguished VP Analyst in D&A Artificial Intelligence. Through his research and advisory duties, Erick guides organizations on the strategic, technology and pragmatic implementation of AI techniques and next-generation decision-modeling systems. Prior to Gartner, Erick has held various executive positions building products and AI platforms. Erick has also conducted a scientific mission for the French Embassy in the U.S. while conducting his research as a Ph.D. candidate at University of Delaware within a cognitive sciences multidisciplinary program. Erick is also currently an adjunct professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. 00:16:53 Powering Transformation by Intelligent Automation and Al Please subscribe and share the episode with your colleagues. Thank you for listening. Gartner Podcasts are a production of Gartner, the world's leading research and advisory company. Equipping executives across the enterprise with indispensable insight, advice, and tools to achieve their mission critical priorities. You can learn more at Gartner.com. All content in Gartner Podcasts is owned by Gartner and cannot be repurposed or reproduced without Gartner's consent. Gartner is an impartial, independent analyst of business and technology. This content should not be construed as a Gartner endorsement of any enterprise's product or services. All content provided by other speakers is expressly the views of those speakers and their organizations.

Clement Leone stands in the war room, that is filled with many memories and mementos, at his home in Lake Heritage. He is wearing the Legion of Honor award which he received at the French Embassy in Washington D.C. (Darryl Wheeler/Gettysburg Times) This interview of Clem Leone was conducted at his home in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania by John Fenzel and his son Luke, on June 16, 2018.  At the time of this interview, Clem was 94 years old.  The following narrative is derived from multiple sources, detailed at the end of this post.  Many of the photos of awards, models and artifacts were taken at his home. Major Clement “Clem” Leone US Army Air Force   B24 Liberator Radio Operator 2nd Air Division/445th Bomb Group/700th Squadron POW - Stalag Luft IV Poland  Nov. '44 – May ‘45 Clem Leone was born in Baltimore in 1924.  He had two brothers and three sisters and one of his brothers served in the Merchant Marines during WW II.  I asked Clem what he remembered of growing up during the Great Depression.  “It was tough makin' a living.  Not enough food to eat.”  Clem had a step father who was a railroad telegrapher.  “He made an above average salary for the time, but even so, we had to scrounge everywhere we could to get food.”  Clem attended Southern High School, loved his experience, and characterized himself as a nerd.  “I went there to learn and I graduated with honors.” When the war broke out Clem was 17.  He wanted to enlist but his mother wouldn't let him.  “When they started drafting 18 year olds she let me go.”  Clem enlisted in November of '42.  The Army gave him several tests to identify his skills which would then be used to determine his military occupation.  Clem did well on the radio test and had he had the option of radio school or auto and truck mechanic school.  Clem had already taken auto shop in high school so he figured he should learn something else and he selected radio school.  Clem headed to Fort Pickett in Virginia and then to Miami Florida for basic training.  At the time the Army needed radio operators so badly that they shortened his basic training and sent him to radio school in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.  There he spent 13 weeks having “morse code pounded into you.”  Clem wanted to fly and after passing a physical for flying he went to gunnery school to learn every weapon on the aircraft.  The training was primitive but creative for the time and the technology available.   Next stop for Clem was Boise, Idaho where the gunners were teamed with a pilot, co-pilot, engineer and bombardier.  There were a total of 10 in the crew for the B24 Liberator.  The crew was sent to Sioux Falls where they practiced formation flying and Clem was assigned primary responsibility for the radio and secondary responsibility for the upper machine gun turret.  In November of '43 they left for Europe.  They headed for England via Brazil and then to the Ascension Islands.  “The Ascension Islands were a tiny speck in the middle of the ocean.  My thought right away was, the Navigator just got out of cadet training.  I hope he learned his lessons.”  The Navigator got them to the Ascension Islands where they had Thanksgiving dinner while they plane was serviced.  They then flew to Africa and then to Tibenham, England.  Clem was in the 700th Squadron and Jimmy Stewart was a pilot in the 701st Squadron.  One day Jimmy Stewart needed a radio operator to go on a training flight so he could check out a new pilot.  Clem volunteered.  “He was very strict.  You never would have guessed he was a movie star celebrity.” The crew's first flight in December '43 was a training mission to get accustomed to a new pilot.  During the flight, the number 4 engine caught fire and they were able to extinguish the flames.  The pilot was looking to make an emergency landing when the number 1 engine caught fire.  The pilot hit the bail out button and the crew ejected.  Clem didn't get out of the plane until they were at 800 feet, and he hit the ground so hard he broke his leg.  All but the pilot made it out alive. On February 4th of 1944 they had their first mission that took then into Frankfurt, Germany.  They loaded onto their plane, the “Wacky Donald” and headed for Germany.  Clem recalled the flight was uneventful, with lots of flack but no Nazi fighter planes.  They arrived at their target, dropped their bombs, and started to make their turn to head back to England.  One of the planes in the formation above the Wacky Donald had one bomb stuck in its bomb bay and when it released it hit the number two engine on the Wacky Donald.  Clem looked at the window to find a huge hole in the wing.  This forced them to drop out of formation and head back to Tibenham at a much slower speed than the rest of the formation.  The pilot ordered the crew to throw all non-essential equipment, including all but 50 rounds per machine gun, out of the bomb bay to lighten the plane to maintain their altitude.  They were 5 to 6 hours from home. Clem (lower left) with his crew. Top center is Lt. Robert Blomberg, an up and comer with the 445th Bomb Group who died at the controls when his ship blew up. Others in the crew were also KIA. Notable in this team photo is the small man next to Blomberg, Lt. Donald Widmark, co-pilot and brother of future actor Richard Widmark. The co-pilot would grab a parachute and leave Blomberg behind 75 years ago today. Clem's personal rule was to stay with the ship as long as the officers did, but when he saw Widmark bail out, he said, “It was time for this guy to go.” The plane and crew limped home and didn't hit any resistance until they received heavy flack over the coast of France just before they headed over the English Channel.  The plane dropped to about 4,000 feet and then received a radio transmission, “fighters at 6 o'clock.”  Two ME-109 were closing on the Wacky Donald.  Clem was in the upper gun turret and swung the guns around and took aim at the ME-109's.  Another transmission blared “fighters at 12 o'clock.”  Clem pivoted to 12 o'clock and saw a wonderful sight; two British Spitfires.  “Boy, they were beautiful.”  The Spitfires took out one of the Nazi planes and one of the Spitfires chased the other ME-109 back to France.  The Wacky Donald continued back to their air field and Clem recalled, “The White Cliffs of Dover….man they were beautiful!”.  The runway came into sight, but the excitement wasn't over.  The pilot said “I have to put us into a dive to get enough speed to land.  Put the landing gear into the down position and just pray they lock.”  Their prayers were answered, and the pilot got them home in one piece.  “None of us were hurt, but we did a lot of sweating.” With two near misses under his belt Clem flew 4 more missions into Germany and France without incident.  With D-Day looming, Operation Argument was developed.  The objective was sustained and heavy bombing of aviation related targets in Germany.  This was also known as “Big Week”.  The crew of the "Wacky Donald" received orders to bomb a ball bearing plant in Gotha Germany, 145 miles west of Dresden.  “That was a long flight.”  The 20 plane formation took off on February 24 '44.  While making their way to the target they came under attack by the Luftwaffe using Fokker 190's.   The enemy aircraft unleashed a barrage of incendiary rockets directly at the aft section of the "Wacky Donald." Clem was on the radio when he heard a tremendous explosion and saw flames begin to consume the plane. Amidst the chaos and the 200-mile-per-hour slipstream, Clem gripped the barrels of the top turret machine gun, a desperate attempt to maintain some semblance of control.  He looked around and found the tail gunner dead and half hanging out of the plane and one of the waist gunners dead in his position.  The other waist gunner was wounded but managed to eject.  The ball turret gunner came up to escape the fire, but he had to go back and retrieve his parachute leaving Clem and the Engineer to fight the flames with the fire extinguishers.  That proved to be pointless as massive amounts of hydraulic fluid fed the flames.  In a moment that seemed to stretch into eternity, Clem's dire circumstances took a dramatic turn.  The co-pilot climbed over Clem and exited the plane through the upper hatch and bailed out.  Clem's theory was, “if the pilot or the co-pilot leaves, it's time for this boy to go.”  Later Clem learned that 13 of the 20 planes in his formation were shot down. The engulfing fire reached the wing tanks, triggering a catastrophic explosion that instantly transformed the night sky. The force of the blast was so intense that it rendered Technical Sgt. Leone unconscious and propelled him clear of the disintegrating aircraft, setting him on a terrifying free-fall towards the earth below. Plummeting from an altitude of perhaps 10,000 feet, Clem was unconscious, his body hurtling down at a speed that should have guaranteed a fatal outcome upon impact. However, fate had other plans for the feisty airman. In a miraculous twist of events, Clem regained consciousness mid-fall, his face covered in blood, yet his mind startlingly clear. With death staring him in the face, he managed to summon his wits, frantically searching for the orange metal ring on his chest that stood between life and certain death. With a decisive yank, Clem pulled the ring, deploying his parachute and transitioning from a deathly free-fall to a controlled descent. Despite his injuries, including fractured ribs sustained upon impact, Clem survived the ordeal, a testament to his incredible resilience and presence of mind in the face of overwhelming adversity. This harrowing experience not only showcased Clem's indomitable spirit but also marked the beginning of an extraordinary tale of survival against all odds.   Clem put on his parachute and climbed through the upper hatch.  At this point the plane was still flying 240 mph and Clem had to hold on to the two upper guns to keep from blowing off.  The plane was being consumed by flames and Clem was trying to decide how to exit the plane without getting caught in the spinning props or being thrown into the big double tail in the rear.  “While I was contemplating what to do apparently the ship exploded because I found myself at 14,000 feet without an airplane.”   Clem knew he was over enemy territory, and his mind was spinning on how to avoid capture.  His chute opened without a problem and he could see below that there was a pond and he was headed straight into it.  “Well wouldn't you know it, I got out of the plane safely and here I am going to land in this pond and drown because I can't swim.”  Luckily, he remembered his training on how to use his cords to direct his landing.  At about 8,000 feet he saw a crowd of civilians running toward him.  Now he remembered being told that German civilians would kill American pilots because they were told they were gangsters. Clem made sure to pull his legs up so he wouldn't break them and instead broke three ribs and hurt his back. With the crowd rapidly approaching, Clem pulled out his sidearm to try and defend himself.  He could hear them yelling, “Hollander, Hollander!”  He then realized he wasn't in Germany but rather occupied Netherlands.  Clem motioned them to come closer and tried to use his language card to speak Dutch but to no avail.  They brought Clem to a farmhouse and gave him a slice of bread with some jelly and a drink.  Clem didn't know what to expect so he gave the Dutch his firearm in case he was captured.  Better the Dutch to have it than the Nazi's.  Then came a knock at the door and it was a member of the German Home Guard; A Dutch citizen in a Nazi uniform who said, “you are my prisoner.  For you the war is over.”  Clem was led down a road by the Home Guard followed by the Dutch villagers.  Clem was directed to enter a civilian camp, but the Dutch were yelling, “no, other way!”  A 17 year old ran up to Clem and said “come” and he began running.  Without thinking Clem took off with him.  At the same time the Dutch villagers handled the guard.  “They beat the daylights out of him!” They ran into the woods and took Clem to a camouflaged underground bunker just big enough for a cot and a bucket for a latrine.  They told him to stay put and they would be back as soon as the Nazi's stopped looking for him.  A few days later they returned with a doctor.  The doctor taped his ribs and gave him some pain killers and the Dutch brought him some food.  Clem was told he would have to stay put until the villagers were able to hand him off to the Dutch underground.  He hid in the shelter for a week.  One day he heard a truck pull up and was sure the Nazi's had finally found him.  Instead, it was the Dutch underground and Clem's luck continued.  The underground took him to Amsterdam where a family hid him for a while.  They hid him in the attic and sometimes closets.  In the evenings they took him out for walks. They were trying to arrange to get Clem into France and then over the Pyrenees Mountains into Spain and from there to England. The underground thought they had found safe passage and they took Clem and began walking south until they eventually came to a train station, and they handed Clem off to a guide to take him the rest of the way.  At the train station a Nazi soldier asked him where the train was headed.  Clem was dressed in civilian clothes and had identification papers that identified him as a deaf and dumb accountant from Sumatra.  They chose Sumatra because of Clem's Mediterranean complexion and Sumatra was a Dutch possession.  They took the train to a farmhouse in southern Holland and then walked to the border of Belgium.  At the border they had to time the patrols of the Belgium border guards so they could slip across the border.  Once across the border there was a truck waiting for them that took them into Antwerp. Clem was taken to a home where he was hidden for a short time until the underground felt they had another contact that could take him into France.  After exchanging pleasantries, the contact started asking Clem about the name of his plane, when he was shot down and who had helped him.  Clem made up stories about why he couldn't remember and gave up no information.  At that point he was led to a building and was handed over to the Nazi's.  After four and a half months Clem was no longer free.  It was July of 1944 and he had no idea when the war would be over.  I asked Clem what went through his mind at that point.  He said, “I thought it was all over.”  Clem was put in a prison cell with another American that had been captured, Odell Hooper from Oklahoma.  They remained there for about a week until the Nazis had accumulated more Americans.  They were then put on a passenger train to an interrogation center. “All that time, all my mom had was the telegram she received telling her I was shot down,” Leone said. “She didn't know whether I was dead or alive.” At the interrogation center they were put into solitary for a week.  When Clem was brought before the Nazi interrogation officer he was asked for his name, rank, and serial number.  The Nazi, in a very friendly manner said, “Leone.  That's Italian.  Aren't you fighting for the wrong side?”  Clem gave then no information and was sent back to his cell.  Next, they were taken by train to Stalag Luft IV located in present day Tychowo, Poland just south of the Baltic Sea.  Clem remembered when they stepped off the train they saw a long line of German guards, all very young in age and holding German Shepherds.  The Americans were told to run into the POW camp while the guards allowed the dogs to nip at their heels.  When Clem's group made it inside the camp the resident POWs told them, “You were lucky.  They usually prod you with bayonets.” “The Americans already there said we were lucky,” Leone remembered. “The captain who would prick people with bayonets had just gone on leave.” In eight months, Leone had one shower. Had him and his comrades known about the Jewish concentration camps, he admitted they probably wouldn't have gotten even the one shower so as to avoid being gassed. The camp held mainly allied air crews and most of the guards were from the Luftwaffe.  There was a connection between the aircrews which made life a tiny bit more bearable.  Clem was led to his cell by an elderly Nazi soldier who told him, “this won't be pleasant but its bearable and you will be able to live through it and you will be able to get to go home.”  Clem was offered the opportunity to be placed in the officer's camp as an orderly, but he refused.  He wanted to be with the NCO's.   The POWs were warned not to cross the warning wire” that extended around the perimeter of the camp.  If they stepped across it, they would be shot without warning.  Beyond the warning wire there was a series of fences and barbed wire entanglements to make sure no one thought of escape.  Food did exist and red Cross parcels were delivered with some regularity and had some nutrition in them.  Meals consisted of raw potatoes and bread with sticks in it.  Once they were given a block of cheese infested with bugs.  To pass the time they walked around the perimeter of the camp, played baseball with make-shift bats and balls, and played football with a make-shift football. The guards inside the camp were elderly and unarmed.  The POWs called them ferrets because they were always trying to get information from the POWs to pass along to the camp commandant.  The guards in the towers and in the Commandant's barracks were armed.  “They were nasty, and they all spoke perfect English.”  Bartering in the camp with the guards was a big business.  Cigarettes and spam carried high currency.   One of the men bartered with a guard for parts to a radio which he built into a functional transistor radio which kept the POWs somewhat informed of the progress of the war.  They knew the Allies were winning and that helped with morale. In January of '45 the Allies were advancing into Nazi Territory.  The men at the camp could hear artillery in the distance.  They thought Liberation could be not far away.  The Nazi's decided to evacuate the camp to avoid the Russian troops advancing from the east.  They decided to march the camp west.  The sick and wounded were transported by train.  On February 6, 1945, the remaining men began what would become known as the German Death March.   The men were assembled in columns of 4 or 5 across and were forced to march between 5 and 20 miles each day.  The men had inadequate clothing to provide them protection from one of Germany's harshest winters on record.  Snow and sub-zero temperatures resulted in frost bite and the complete lack of sanitation, food or drink resulted in extreme weight loss, lice, dysentery and in some cases death.  Men who could not keep up were escorted by a Nazi soldier into the woods and executed.  Sometimes the men were able to sleep in barns but often they slept in open fields exposed to the elements.  The march took the POWs through numerous German towns where they were distained by the German citizens who had endured prolonged and devastating Allied bombing.  They threw eggs and tomatoes and tried to assault the POWs.   They stole eggs for food. At one point, they collected all their cigarettes to trade with a farmer for a pig to roast. They dodged friendly fire from U.S. airplanes that had no way of knowing they were American prisoners. “Survival,” Leone said when asked what was going through his mind during the more than a year he spent in Europe. “How's this gonna end? What are they finally gonna do? Any time you don't have your freedom, I think you'd feel that way. The worst part of it as far as not having your freedom was that week in solitary.” Clem believes the march ended on May 6th, 1945.  That day they woke up and found that the guards had disappeared.   The POWs wondered what had happened.  A short while later they heard engines and soon a British Lorry appeared carrying British soldiers.    The number of men thought to have started the march was 6,000+.  The total time estimated for the march was 86 days.  It is believed the men covered 600+ miles as the Nazi's continually changed direction to avoid the advancing Soviet troops.  It is thought that 1,300+ men perished in the harsh winter conditions.  No official records were kept making it hard to get precise numbers.  Despite the lack of records this forced march is often compared to the Bataan Death March. The British took the POWs clothes and burned them.  They deloused the men and gave them plenty of time to take a nice hot shower.  Initially they were issued small portions of rations until their digestive systems became accustomed to food again.  Clem boarded the ship, The Jonathan Worth for a 13 day voyage home.  When they entered New York Harbor they were greeted with pleasure boats “with gals in bikini's and some of them had records playing don't fence me in.”  I asked Clem if he remembered seeing the Statute of Liberty.  “Oh Yes.  That was a wonderful site!”  Next, they were taken to Fort Dix and were given a big steak dinner.  They were permitted one phone call and Clem called his uncle to come pick him up.   Clem arrived back in Baltimore and had a 60 day recuperation furlough.  He looked up his high school sweetheart who had waited for him to return and they decided to get married and move to Miami where Clem was scheduled to report back for duty.  They were married and before they left on their honeymoon Clem received a letter to be ready to deploy to the Pacific.  Fortunately, when he returned from his honeymoon the war was over.   Clem went about building his life with a keen sense for making money and advancing.  He worked as an auto mechanic, then networked his way into a Pontiac dealership in the service area, became shop foreman and then went into sales and various other roles in the car business.  In a chance meeting someone asked him if he had ever considered teaching auto mechanics.  He had not but decided to give it a try because it had a pension.  Clem ended up teaching high school auto mechanics for 22 years and was beloved by his students.  He also stayed in the Army and Air Force Reserves for 33 years reaching the rank of Major.  “In my opinion, there are no real heroes in a war,” Leone said from his Mount Joy home in the Lake Heritage development. “There's nothing glorious about war. It's mayhem.” Clem Leone passed away at the age of 98 on Wednesday, September 28, 2022.  CLem received France's highest award, the Legion of Honor, at the French Embassy in Washington, D.C., and also received the Purple Heart, the POW Award and the Dutch equivalent to the French Legion of Honor. Luke Fenzel with Clem Leone (June 16, 2018) John and Luke Fenzel, with Clem Leone (June 16, 2018) The above narrative was derived from the following sources: Written Account by Walter Schuppe, Avon, CT, (860) 558-1072; walter11_22@yahoo.com "WWII vet, former POW, recalls War as 'Mayhem'," Gettysburg Times Article by Mark Walters, December 6, 2010 "Death for Wacky Donald," by Robert Matzen

Kosovo's threat to block visits by Serbian officials, Donald Trump's foreign earnings as president, the closure of the French embassy in Niger and Giorgia Meloni's end-of-year press conference. Plus: ‘On This Day' explores the mystery of UK pilot Amy Johnson, who disappeared 83 years ago today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An Ideal Husband is an 1895 comedy by Oscar Wilde which revolves around blackmail and political corruption, and touches on the themes of public and private honor. The action is set in London, in "the present", and takes place within a single day. "Sooner or later," Wilde notes, "we shall all have to pay for what we do." But he adds that, "No one should be entirely judged by their past." (Summary from Wikipedia)Characters:Narrator – Read by Alex FosterThe Earl Of Caversham, K.G. – Read by LintonViscount Goring, his son – Read by John GonzalezSir Robert Chiltern, Bart., Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs – Read by David BarnesVicomte De Nanjac, Attache at the French Embassy in London – Read by Juho FröjdMr. Montford – Read by Matthew WaltonMason, Butler to Sir Robert Chiltern – Read by Hugh McGuirePhipps, Lord Goring's servant – Read by Juho FröjdJames, footman – Read by Read by Chris GoringeHarold, footman – Read by Zachary Brewster-GeiszLady Chiltern – Read by Kristin HughesLady Markby – Read by Heather BarnettThe Countess Of Basildon – Read by JemmaBlytheMrs. Marchmont – Read by EzwaMiss Mabel Chiltern, Sir Robert Chiltern's sister – Read by Ophelia DarcyMrs. Cheveley – Read by Betsie BushProject Editor – Paula Berinstein --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/librivox1/support

Adopted 170 years apart, grown from similar philosophical roots, and shaped by different histories–a comparative examination of the French and the US Constitutions yields fascinating takeaways about the norms in the two nations. Featuring guests: Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center Florence Hermite, Head of the French Embassy's Justice Department

Welcome to Episode 1578, Segmenting the Fine Wine Consumers with Pauline Vicard and Andrea Lonardi This is the wine2wine Business Forum 2022 Series. The sessions are recorded and uploaded on Italian Wine Podcast. wine2wine Business Forum is an international wine business event, held annually in Verona, Italy since 2014. The event is a key reference point for wine producers and a diverse variety of wine professionals gather to develop and expand their wine business worldwide. Abstract: Fine wine consumers are a very specific segment of the wine market. Their profiles, needs and expectations can vary substantially from other wine consumers. From collectors to investors, they all respond to different motivations and buying patterns, that ARENI has been studying for the last four years, gathering both quantitative and qualitative data. This session will explore key insights from ARENI's latest research on fine wine consumers, and what it means in terms of successful marketing and communication campaign. More about today's speaker: Pauline Vicard Born and raised into a winemaking family in Burgundy, Pauline has been working in the wine sector for the last 15 years both in Europe and Internationally, in the market research department of the Burgundy wine office and the French Embassy, before creating her own corporate wine events and education company in Lille, France. She moved to London in 2015 to spearhead the Wine Library of the unique and acclaimed Clerkenwell London, a multi-space design destination, before developing the concept of Fine Minds 4 Fine Wines with Nicole Rolet that led to the creation of Areni Global. Pauline now directs all Areni's activities, when she is not studying for the Master of Wine exam or playing ultimate frisbee. Connect: Instagram: @labelsandgrapes Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pauline.vicard.7 Twitter: @Labelsandgrapes Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauline-vicard-70505b33/ More about today's moderator: Andrea Lonardi Born in Valpolicella, he graduated in Agriculture from the University of Bologna and holds a Master's in management from the Grande École de Montpellier. Lonardi began his career with the Italian Wine Group (GIV) where he oversaw Italian wine territories totalling more than 1,200 hectares. In 2012 he became COO of Bertani Domains, now Angelini Wines & Estates. Lonardi is VP of the Consorzio Tutela Vini della Valpolicella, sits on the board of Unione Italiana. In August 2023 Andrea Lonardi became Italy's second Master of Wine Connect: Instagram: @andrea_lonardi_al Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrea.lonardi.756 Twitter: @AndreaLonardi74 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-lonardi/ _______________________________ Let's keep in touch! Follow us on our social media channels: Instagram www.instagram.com/italianwinepodcast/ Facebook www.facebook.com/ItalianWinePodcast Twitter www.twitter.com/itawinepodcast Tiktok www.tiktok.com/@mammajumboshrimp LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/italianwinepodcast If you feel like helping us, donate here www.italianwinepodcast.com/donate-to-show/ Until next time, Cin Cin! Thanks for tuning in! Listen to more stories from the Italian Wine Community here on Italian Wine Podcast!

In this episode, I interview Meredith Davis about her career path and current role. She received her bachelor's degree from Davidson College in English and her master's in occupational therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her previous work experience includes working as a Concierge at BF Saul, a Circulation manager for France Magazine at the French Embassy, and an Occupational Therapy Assistant at the Kennedy Krieger Institute. She is currently a Therapy Supervisor at the League Education and Treatment Center. We discuss: 0:46: An overview of her current role 1:57: What a typical day is like 3:20: The types of problems she helps her students with 4:08: The distinction between occupational therapy and speech therapy 5:58: The typical patient timeline 8:22: How students are typically referred to her 9:33: The process of determining a student's needs and goals 11:40: The level of treatment customization for students 15:02: An overview of the collaboration with other professionals in the role 17:10: The highs and challenges of her role 19:34: The training required for her role 22:00: Why she chose this career path 23:00: What she likes more about her current role than to previous jobs 24:47: Advice for narrowing down one's career interest 26:07: Advice for how to prepare for a career in occupational therapy in college 26:58: General career advice

Wongel Zelalem reports on the European Union accusing Niger of provocation after envoy got refused access to French embassy. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/support

*) Demonstrators protest outside French Embassy in Vienna against abaya ban A group of demonstrators have gathered in front of the French Embassy in Vienna to voice opposition in a display of solidarity against a recent ban on abayas in French schools. Organised as a peaceful protest, participants wore long dresses and carried banners with slogans such as "Abaya is our right and identity", "Do not judge women by their clothing", and "My clothes, my choice." The protest aimed to express strong disagreement with the decision in France that prohibits the wearing of abayas in educational institutions. *) Sweden failed to fulfil duties under NATO bid: Erdogan Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticized Sweden for failing to meet its obligations under a deal with Türkiye to join NATO, especially in light of recent terrorist protests in Sweden. Besides drafting new laws to better combat terrorism, Sweden must also enforce the measures in these laws, Erdogan said. Turkish president says these are evidence of Stockholm's inability to combat terrorism effectively. *) Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, sign defence pact Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, three West African Sahel nations ruled by military juntas, have signed a security pact promising to come to the aid of each other in case of any rebellion or external aggression. "Our priority is the fight against terrorism in the three countries," Mali's Defence Minister Abdoulaye Diop told journalists. Three countries struggling to contain militant insurgents, relations with neighbours and partners strained by coups. *) Death toll from Libya floods climbs to 11,300 in Derna — UN The death toll from the catastrophic flooding in Libya's eastern city of Derna has climbed to 11,300, the United Nations said in an update. Another 10,100 people are still missing in the devastated city, the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said late on Saturday. Elsewhere in eastern Libya outside Derna, the flooding took an additional 170 lives, the update said. *) TRT co-production 'Green Border' wins 7 awards at Venice Film Festival Green Border, a Türkiye's national broadcaster TRT's co-production directed by Polish master Agnieszka Holland, wins 7 awards at the 80th Venice Film Festival, including the Special Jury Prize. "Green Border" tells the compelling story of refugees on the border between Poland and Belarus. The film, supported by prestigious European funds, is a collaboration between Türkiye, Poland, France, the Czech Republic, and Belgium.

Even though India and France have had a strategic partnership for twenty-five years now, the bilateral relationship between these countries has received substantial impetus recently. The relationship spans common interests in the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific, a robust military and defense partnership, cooperation in high-tech areas such as space and nuclear, and, of course, a growing economic and trade relationship. What lessons can both countries offer each other? And what are some of the commonalities and differences in the French and Indian approaches to global governance and global challenges such as climate change in a multipolar world? What are the challenges in taking this relationship to the next level?In this episode of Interpreting India, Emmanuel Lenain joins Anirudh Suri to discuss these questions.Episode ContributorsEmmanuel Lenain is the Ambassador of France to India. He began his diplomatic career in 1997, serving in the French Foreign Ministry's United Nations Department, where he took part in peace negotiations on Kosovo. Since then, he has served in France's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, the Embassy of France in Beijing as the Prime Minister's technical adviser on multilateral affairs, the French Embassy in Washington, DC, as Consul General of France in Shanghai, Director for the Asia-Pacific Division of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and as Diplomatic Adviser to the Prime Minister.Anirudh Suri is a nonresident scholar with Carnegie India. His interests lie at the intersection of technology and geopolitics, climate, and strategic affairs. He is currently exploring how India is carving and cementing its role in the global tech ecosystem and the role climate technology can play in addressing the global climate challenge.

Vicki Dillard reports on Niger cutting off the French embassy's water, electricity and refusing them food deliveries in bid to get them to leave the country. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/support

Wongel Zelalem reports on Niger military leadership cutting off electricity and water supplies to the French Embassy in the capital Niamey with no food deliveries allowed. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/africandiasporanews/support

From the depth of space to the far reaches of the Atlantic, Space Counselor to the French Embassy and CNES Representative in the US Nicolas Maubert is an expert in exploring the unknown. At his day job, he's seen legends like Thomas Pesquet off into space, and in his free time, he's explored the high seas on solo missions. Listen to our conversation with this fascinating colleague, out now on the French Embassy's Podcast.

French embassy in Samoa will play a central role on regional issues.

Jack Benny - Jack Is Guest Of Honor At The French Embassy Dinner

Bernard Bouriscot worked in the French Embassy in China in the 1960s, where he befriended a man named Shi Pei Pu. Soon, Shi revealed his biggest secret - he was actually a woman in disguise! They fell in love, and Bernard started spying for the Chinese government in order to stay close to her. But Shi had more secrets, and Bernard was in for some shocking truths!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode Barbara shares some amazing stories and dives into how she was initially drawn toward spirituality and art throughout her life. We spoke about her journey becoming an art historian and her move to NYC where she became a well known gallerist and art dealer. We spoke about her experiences with spiritual giants like Maharishi Mahesh Yogi,  Swami Satchidananda, and Yogi Bhajan.  We also dialogue about the current shift in the art world, the reasons why spirituality might have been taboo in the past, along with  the potential the spiritual in art holds for our collective future.  Barbara has so much wisdom and insight to share around these subjects and I know you all are going to absolutely love this episode!!  ------------------------ Barbara Braathen is an art historian, curator, dealer and writer.  She had galleries in New York from 1980-2005, programming an eclectic mix of contemporary styles and media.  Exhibitions included graffiti personality Rammellzee, language artist Guy de Cointet, abstract painter Joan Waltemath, sculptor Donald Lipski, Surrealist legend Charles Henri Ford, spiritual expressionist Hunt Slonem,  magic painter Peter Grass, mystic John Wells, plus tombstone rubbings by the infamous Scott Covert, paintings and sculpture of the actor Fred Gwynne, a group show "Surrealismo" co-curated with "The Godfather of Gallerists" Leo Castelli, a collaboration with the French Embassy, Richard Osterweil paintings of the Romanov family at the Russian Embassy on New York's upper east side, as well as readings in the gallery by poet laureate John Ashbery,.  Group exhibitions included works by Marcel Duchamp, Man Ray, Jean Cocteau, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, and many others.  Barbara Braathen Gallery was reviewed in Artforum, Artnews, Art in America, Flash Art, The New Yorker, The Atlantic Monthly, and a host of other publications.  She holds a PhDC in modern art history from UCLA. Interest in spiritual subjects began while a college student in the 1960s.  Experiences in Los Angeles included close interfacing with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, Swami Satchidananda, Yogi Bhajan who brought Kundalini yoga to the west, and innumerable other spiritual leaders.  She as well participated in study groups with a close circle, the principle readings being in Theosophy (Blavatsky, Besant, Leadbetter), plus Cayce, Gurdjieff, and Hindu and Buddhist writings.  She has experienced several miraculous healings.  Current studies include the anthroposophical teachings of Rudolf Steiner.  She is on the Board of Directors of Spring River School, a Waldorf-inspired outdoor school in Jacksonville Florida where she currently resides. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbara_Braathen https://nyweekly.com/?s=Barbara+braathen https://www.readersdigest.co.uk/culture/art-theatre/barbara-braathen-an-aesthete-in-the-art-industry https://www.laprogressive.com/sponsored/barbara-braathen See More from Martin Benson *To stay up on releases and content surrounding the show check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠my instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ *To contribute to the creation of this show, along with access to other exclusive content, consider joining ⁠⁠⁠⁠my Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠! Credits: Big Thanks to Matthew Blankenship of ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Sometimes Island ⁠⁠⁠⁠ for the podcast theme music! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/martin-l-benson/support

*THIS WEEK:* Guess what's triggering Amateur Nation this week? “The”! BUZZER*GET A FREE MONTH OF DRYBAR COMEDY* Go to my *DryBar Comedy Special, “Amateur Nation*”: https://www.drybarcomedy.com/lous and *USE PROMO CODE: lousantini**ALSO THIS WEEK:* We all know that math is racist. But now, it's also sexist and homophobic! Yay! No more tipping!  I'm right again about TikTok. “Pfizer: bend over.” *On “A la Carte”:* Bernie Sanders doubles down on hypocrisy, a college kid says some words about stuff, pseudo-comedian, Chelsea Handler out dumbs HIM, and Finland declares, “Bring Your Mentally Ill Friend To Work Day”.*On “3 Pro Things”:* The ultimate Cleveland INDIANS fan, my favorite figure in all of Pro sports is honored, and a former President kills.*SUBSCRIBE* on Youtube for 60-second podcast previews every Thursday at 7 a.m. Eastern!:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOh5fIZVQdT0VG2M59S0Vwg *WATCH* the parody song: “My Prez” on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIJjjZLd3q0*WATCH* the parody song: “He's So Stupid (And We Hate That)”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kT8nBvvPl8&list=PLGw14MGhRN476V1fiL_Hn_i3cUNZtKLkT&index=5*WATCH* the parody song: “Oh, Say AOC!”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARSBDPysq5g&list=PLGw14MGhRN476V1fiL_Hn_i3cUNZtKLkT&index=6*WATCH* the parody song: “We Want LA”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARSBDPysq5g&list=PLGw14MGhRN476V1fiL_Hn_i3cUNZtKLkT&index=6*WATCH* the video: “30 Things That Are Like Driving a Prius”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARSBDPysq5g&list=PLGw14MGhRN476V1fiL_Hn_i3cUNZtKLkT&index=6*WATCH* the parody commercial: “Teachers Gone Wild!”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWUEnfGQJKs&list=PLGw14MGhRN476V1fiL_Hn_i3cUNZtKLkT&index=4*DOWNLOAD the book!* https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08254WSV4*Facebook:* https://facebook.com/lousantinientertainment *Instagram:* https://www.instagram.com/lou.santini3/*Truth Social:* https://truthsocial.com/@lousantini3*LinkedIn:* https://www.linkedin.com/in/lousantini/*GETTR:* https://gettr.com/user/lousantini

Striking Keolis bus drivers to rally at French Embassy at 1p today: 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC. Today's labor quote: Ida May Fuller. Today's labor history: 12,000 pecan shellers strike in San Antonio, Texas.   @wpfwdc #1u #unions #LaborRadioPod @AFLCIO @ATULocal689 @ATUComm #1u #ATUStrongerTogether Proud founding member of the Labor Radio Podcast Network.

In this weeks episode of the Working Artist Project, Darrian Douglas and Gregory Agid speak to clarinetist virtuoso, Evan Christopher Evan Christopher combines virtuosity, immaculate taste, and enthusiasm with a commitment to exploring the full range of possibilities in the New Orleans clarinet tradition. His highly personal brand of “contemporary, early jazz” strives to extend the legacies of early Creole clarinet heroes such as Sidney Bechet, Barney Bigard and Omer Simeon. Critics remarking on Christopher's dynamic expressiveness have coined his style “close-encounter music” (NEW YORK TIMES) and have called his respect for the music traditions of New Orleans, “a triumph, joining the present seamlessly to a glorious past.” (THE OBSERVER, UK). His journey on Clarinet Road began in 1994, when he left his native California to join the New Orleans music community. Diverse freelance work included gigs with musicians such as Al Hirt and veterans of Preservation Hall to funk and brass bands including the Nightcrawlers and Galactic. But in 1996, he left for San Antonio, Texas to appear nightly for nearly three years with the Jim Cullum Jazz Band and record several of their public radio programs, Riverwalk: Live from the Landing. When Christopher returned to New Orleans in 2001, his published research on the New Orleans clarinet style initiated pursuit of a Master's degree in Musicology at Tulane University. He began touring internationally and producing his “Clarinet Road” series of CDs (STR Digital). In August 2005, when Federal levees failed in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina decimating the city, Christopher left again for Paris at the invitation of the French Embassy's Cultural Services division, where he formed his group, Django à la Créole. This Europe-based quartet fused Gypsy Swing with Latin-tinged grooves of New Orleans and beyond and was distinguished for an acoustic intimacy paired with driving swing. Critics charmed by the group queried, “Is there a more graceful band at work at the moment?” (THE SUNDAY TIMES UK). Three CDs for Lejazzetal (London), in partnership with Frémeaux & Associés (Paris)—Django à la Créole (2007), Finesse (2010), and LIVE! (2014)—earned the group critical attention worldwide for its elegant character. As a composer, Christopher's original songs are the high point of acclaimed recordings including Delta Bound (Arbors, 2007) featuring pianist Dick Hyman, The Remembering Song (Arbors, 2010) featuring guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli, his clarinet feature on the Grammy-winning New Orleans Jazz Orchestra's Book One (2012) and his latest Clarinet Road CD, Bayou Chant & Other Textures (STR Digital, 2016). In July 2010, he had the honor to debut his Treat It Gentle Suite with the Minnesota Orchestra, which was the first concerto written for clarinet with band in the New Orleans style. Evan Christopher began his musical training on clarinet at age 11. In high school, he received the Louis Armstrong National Jazz Award and was one of the first graduates of the prestigious Idyllwild Arts Academy. He continued studies at the University of Southern California and graduated with honors from California State University, Long Beach. A brief teaching stint at the University of New Orleans saw the creation of a New Orleans music ensemble that performed with guest mentors such as Lucien Barbarin and Marcus Roberts. Since 2008, having returned once again to New Orleans, Christopher actively advocates for the cultural workforce and music education. He frequently tours with and records as a guest with forward-looking artists, while performances under his own name are often complemented by workshops and educational and community outreach. Occasional columns about the music scene and New Orleans culture written for NolaVie.com, evidence Evan's passion for the city's indigenous traditions.

In the 1920s, Josephine Baker escaped the violent racism of in the United States to seek refuge in Paris, like so many other Black American creatives have done over time. Baker found that France welcomed her, and the freedom she found there helped her become an international sensation in dancing, singing, and acting. Baker eventually became not only a French citizen but a decorated hero in the French Resistance during World War II. She also continued to speak out against racism in her home country, and was the only woman on the official speakers list at the 1963 March on Washington. All of this helped Baker become the first Black woman, first American, and first entertainer inducted into the Panthéon in Paris, one of the greatest honors bestowed in France. On this episode of Into America, host Trymaine Lee talks about the significance of this honor with Ricki Stevenson, a Black American whose own move to Paris in the 1990s was inspired by Baker, and who has been fighting for more recognition for Baker here in the States. During the induction ceremony last month, French President Emmanuel Macron called Baker “ever fair, ever fraternal, ever fraternal, and ever French,” and held her up as a shining example of French universalism: “Being Black didn't take precedence over being American or French. She was not fighting in the name of a Black cause, no she was fighting to be a free citizen, one who lived in dignity and completely free.”But France's relationship with race is much more complicated than that. Rokhaya Diallo, a French journalist, author, and activist, tells Into America that Macron's words dilute Baker's own contributions to civil rights, and also obscure the racism that Black French people like her experience on a daily basis. For a transcript, please visit https://www.msnbc.com/intoamerica. Thoughts? Feedback? Story ideas? Write to us at intoamerica@nbcuni.com.Further Listening: Into America: Harlem on My MindInto America: Haiti's Unforgiveable BlacknessEDITOR'S NOTE: After this episode published, we did hear back from a representative of the French Embassy in Washington, DC. Visit our website to read a summary of their statement.