Podcasts about Istanbul

It's ev.news Briefly for Tuesday 04 August 2026, only today's headlines and just the facts in just 4 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the ev.news Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/evnewsEVS TAKE THE LEAD IN IRELAND'S NEW-CAR MARKET AS JULY HITS NEW RECORDBattery electric vehicles have become Ireland's top new-car fuel type, with July setting a record of 9,682 BEV registrations, up 97.67% year on year, taking the seven-month total to 29,840 units, a 61.06% rise on 2025. EVs held 26.1% of the market over that period, ahead of petrol-electric hybrids at 24.6%, petrol at 20.4%, PHEVs at 14.5% and diesel at 12.5%, with Nevo's Derek Reilly crediting lower running costs, newer technology and models priced between €20,000 and €30,000 for reaching the tipping point.VOLVO EX50 SET FOR US IN 2027Volvo will bring the EX50 compact electric crossover to US and Canadian showrooms in autumn 2027 at a price in the high $40,000s, replacing the EX40 as its entry-level US EV and filling a gap left when the EX30 and EX30 Cross Country exit after the 2026 model year. Production starts in spring 2027 at Volvo's $1.3 billion, 250,000-unit Kosice plant in Slovakia, using the SPA3 modular platform with an 800-volt system for faster charging, better efficiency and flexible battery and motor combinations.HYUNDAI AND KIA TOP 100,000 EUROPE EVSHyundai and Kia sold a combined 131,032 EVs in Europe in H1 2026, their first half-year above 100,000, putting them on course to beat 2025's full-year 183,912, as European BEV registrations rose 33.7% to over 1.24 million and took roughly 22% of the market. The Kia EV3 led with 27,121 units from around €36,000, while cheaper models filled out the range: the Hyundai Inster sold 16,594 units, the Kia EV2 launched in Germany in March at €26,600, and the EV4 added 14,502 units during its ramp-up.FRENCH BEV SHARE HITS 35% IN JULYBattery-electric cars took 35% of French new-car registrations in July 2026, with the PFA recording 44,378 BEVs from a market of 126,808 units that grew 9% year on year, roughly double the share of two years earlier. The rise coincided with Round 3 of France's social leasing scheme, reopened on July 16, which covers 29% of purchase price up to €6,500, rising to €9,000 for EEA-built vehicles and batteries plus €500 for an EEA motor, caps payments at €200 a month with no deposit, and has drawn offers such as the Citroën ë-C3 from €94 a month and Renault Twingo from €130.NORWAY HITS 97.6% EV SHARE IN JULYNorway registered 9,609 new passenger cars in July, up 0.5% year on year, of which 9,379 were battery-electric, a 97.6% share up from 96.9% in June, while Østfold reached 99.6% with 672 of 675 registrations. Used-market data followed suit, with private ownership transfers of used EVs up 8% in July against falls of 5.7% for diesel and 6.7% for petrol, and year-to-date used EV transfers up 43.2% to 103,892, now ahead of diesel overall.ALSO STARTS TM-B DELIVERIES AFTER DELAYAlso will deliver its first Launch Edition TM-B electric bikes this week through mid-September, ending a delay caused by an industry-wide surge in demand for raw materials and electronic components that left the bike short of key parts and stalled its manufacturing ramp-up. The TM-B uses a pedal-by-wire system in which pedalling spins a generator that communicates with the motor, with no mechanical link to the wheel, alongside a slick interface, over-the-air updates and a modular frame that accepts different seats and cargo racks.NISSAN SHOWS INTERSTAR-E ELECTRIC CAMPERVANNissan and German converter Eifelland will debut the Interstar-e Relax electric campervan at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf this month, using a Truma Eezy parking heater powered by vehicle-to-load from the 87 kWh traction battery, removing the need for a campsite hookup, diesel generator or engine idling. The donor van is rated at up to 255 miles (410 km) WLTP unladen, though the conversion's added weight will cut that materially, with 130 kW DC and 22 kW AC charging, a fixed bed, 90-litre fridge, induction hob, sink, wood trim and portable toilet, priced at €89,900 (about $102,000).CHUNG CHECKS IONIQ 3 TURKEY LAUNCHHyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Eui-sun toured the group's Izmit plant near Istanbul on July 30 to check production readiness and quality control ahead of Ioniq 3 mass production in mid-August, also visiting Hyundai Mobis's Battery System Assembly plant and urging staff to make the car one of Europe's safest. The Ioniq 3 is Hyundai's first subcompact BEV built for Europe and the first EV made at Izmit, which has built combustion compacts since 1997, and it will roll out across Europe in H2 2026 as the first Hyundai there with the next-generation Pleos Connect infotainment system.FARIZON CUTS AUSTRALIAN SV VAN PRICESFarizon has cut prices by up to A$8,500 (US$5,570) across its SV electric van range in Australia, extending EV price competition into the light commercial segment, with revised pricing now starting at A$62,990 (US$41,260) before on-road costs for the SWB. The mid-size SV, with roughly 1t to 1.2t of payload, previously came in SWB low roof, LWB low roof and LWB high roof forms with an 83 kWh LFP battery, and has been joined by an SLWB high roof variant using a 106 kWh NMC pack.MASSACHUSETTS TARGETS EVS FOR GRID PAYMENTSMassachusetts plans to add electric cars to its virtual power plant under the next phase of ConnectedSolutions, paying owners to export power at peak times and extending vehicle-to-grid from school buses and commercial fleets into private driveways. The state's 150,000-plus EVs represent a notional 11.25GWh of storage at 75kWh each, though depth-of-discharge limits, charger power and everyday driving needs reduce that considerably; eligible models at launch are the Ford F-150 Lightning, Nissan Leaf, Kia EV9, Polestar 3 and Volvo EX90, paying $275 per average kilowatt delivered during summer events, or roughly $1,375 to $2,750 a season.QUEENSLAND E-BIKE CRACKDOWN NETS 991 TICKETSQueensland police issued 991 traffic infringement notices to e-bike riders in the first month of Operation Yankee Surety, which began on 1 July, averaging 32 a day, alongside 249 impounded illegal machines and 24 people charged with drink-riding. The crackdown rests on new laws allowing roadside seizure of non-compliant devices and breath-testing, with devices capable of exceeding 25km/h (15.5mph) banned outright and motors required to be restricted to that limit.ROMANIAN POWER CRUNCH STOPS FORD AND DACIAFord and Dacia have halted production at their Romanian factories through Aug. 19 after severe electricity shortages hit the country. Ford has suspended production of the Puma Gen E in Craiova, 230 km (134 miles) west of Bucharest.TESLA MODEL 3 POWERS HANDMADE MINI JETBOATYouTuber Tyler Fever spent three years stripping a 2021 Tesla Model 3 and fitting its drivetrain into a handbuilt aluminium mini jetboat hull, machining a custom output shaft to bypass the 9:1 reduction and couple the rotor directly to the jet pump, since the motor's roughly 18,000 rpm gave around 2,000 rpm against the 6,000–8,000 rpm impellers need. He used a standard-range pack for its smaller footprint, mounting four modules of about 150 lbs (68 kg) each vertically in laser-cut enclosures, and had to replace the factory BMS and motor controller with an Orion BMS and third-party inverter after they failed to communicate, with the series covering a successful lake run and later testing in Nashville.

A once-iconic shopping center in Roseville serves as the backdrop for a new short story collection exploring migration, identity and belonging.“Har Mar,” released in July, is the debut collection from author Hilal Isler. The interconnected stories follow women whose lives span Turkey and Minnesota as they navigate family, grief, love and the challenges of building a life between cultures.From a nanny hoping to leave her life in Istanbul behind to a bookseller coping with loss through an unlikely relationship, each character searches for connection while confronting uncertainty.MPR News host Kelly Gordon spoke with Isler about the inspiration behind “Har Mar,” why she chose the Roseville shopping center as the book's title and setting, and what she hopes readers take away from the collection.

He was elected mayor of Istanbul in 2019, and had announced his candidacy for the 2028 presidential elections. But Ekrem İmamoğlu is now behind bars, and his trial, on charges including fraud and organised crime, could take 12 years By Kaya Genç. Read by Philip Ishak Arditti This piece first appeared in the Dial. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod

Velká prázdninová dramata se odehrávají ve vysokých horách a v mořských vlnách. Malé drama jsme zaznamenali zpočátku minulého týdne na pražském letišti. Rodina ve složení pán, paní a dvě děti se chystala k odletu do Istanbulu. Měli se na co těšit. Istanbul je krásné město a kupodivu je tam v těchto dnech menší horko než u nás, pokud mohu věřit informacím mého mobilu.

This week, we join Keiran Mustafa at Kismet in Borough Market, surrounded by bulgur kofte, fried liver, lamb neck, chicken shish and what may be the greatest spread we've ever had on the podcast. Keiran reveals how a completely mad three-day trip through Cyprus and Istanbul with Dom helped inspire the restaurant, and explains the meyhane culture of meze, raki, music and long nights that they are bringing to London. Keiran tells us about Sundays with his Turkish-Cypriot nan in Edmonton, where he was instructed to sit down and eat continuously before being sent home with bags of leftovers. We hear how those meals, particularly her bulgur kofte and dangerously addictive Turkish-Cypriot lasagne, eventually led him towards cooking. His first pub kitchen was microwaving cream and Stilton to pour over steaks and spooning jarred salsa onto frozen crayfish flatbreads, but his next job began with half a lamb on the worktop on day one and a lesson in filleting fish on day two. From there came Chez Bruce, where a pig's trotter on his trial was repeatedly sent back until it was properly “mahogany”, followed by a year on the notorious vegetable section doing an almost unimaginable amount of onion work.We also discuss the endless Scotch egg production at The Harwood Arms, the job advert that took him to Le Bab, pitching his own Turkish restaurant idea to JKS and deciding within five minutes of meeting Chet Sharma that he had to work with him.You can book a virtual demonstration with Quooker to find the right setup for your kitchen and remember, until the end of August, if you use the code GO TO FOOD, you'll get free installation and a free Quooker glassware set. Just head to www.Quooker.co.uk now!Get 2 Months of Blinq For Free - With Code - GOTOBLINQ - https://blinqme.com/Watch and Subscribe To Our Youtube Videos Here - https://www.youtube.com/@gotofood Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wer steckt eigentlich hinter den Videos von Arda Saatci? Wie filmt man jemanden, der von Berlin nach New York läuft? Und wie ist das Team Cyborg entstanden?Paul Maximilian ist der Mann hinter der Kamera von Team Cyborg und in dieser Folge des Hauptstadt Podcasts sprechen wir über die Geschichte hinter der Geschichte.Was du in dieser Folge erfährst:Wo ist Paul aufgewachsenWie ist Paul zur Kamera gekommenWie Paul und Arda Saatci sich in Hamburg kennengelernt habenWie aus einer zufälligen WG das Team Cyborg entstanden istWie Arda Saatcis erstes YouTube-Video auf einem Sportplatz entstandWie ein gebrochenes Schienbein das Projekt Berlin–New York fast beendet hätteWie man mit dem Loch nach so einem Cyborg-Projekt umgehtÜber Paul Maximilian Paul stammt aus einem kleinen Dorf in Ostfriesland. Mit 19 zog er nach dem Abi ein halbes Jahr allein durch Südamerika – eine Reise, die ihn geprägt hat. Danach brachte er sich Videoschnitt selbst bei, brach sein BWL-Studium ab und ist seitdem seit über zehn Jahren selbstständig als Videograf und Cutter. Über Hamburg und Madeira wurde er zum festen Mann hinter der Kamera von Arda Saatci und Team Cyborg.Für wen ist diese Folge?Für alle, die Arda Saatci und Team Cyborg verfolgen, für Läufer und Hobbysportler, für Kreative und Selbstständige, die aus ihrem Handwerk etwas Eigenes aufbauen wollen – und für alle, die wissen wollen, was hinter einem viralen Projekt wirklich passiert.Gespräche mit Menschen, die nicht den einfachsten Weg gegangen sind. #besterpodcastAufnahmedatum: 2026Wenn dir die Folge gefällt, abonniere den Kanal. Das kostet dich nichts und hilft mir, weitere spannende Gäste vors Mikrofon zu holen.Paul MaximilianInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulmaxis/Hauptstadt PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hauptstadtpodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4KB8CFjcxsxjTvjqb3wwwQApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/de/podcast/hauptstadt-podcast/id1526119406Wolfgang PatzInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfgang.patz/Kapitelmarken00:00 – Der Mann hinter Arda Saatci03:08 – Was gefällt Paul an Berlin und was nicht?05:41 – Pauls Vita: Mit 19 allein durch Südamerika17:55 – Studium abgebrochen, mit 20 selbstständig48:03 – Wie Paul Arda Saatci kennengelernt hat50:26 – Arda Saatcis erstes Video auf dem Sportplatz01:00:00 – Berlin nach New York: Cyborg Season 2024 und der Anruf01:03:56 – Wie das erste Cyborg-Video explodierte01:15:21 – Das gebrochene Schienbein & die Reha01:28:24 – Team Cyborg in Japan: Cyborg Season 2025 neue Dimension01:43:54 – „Death Valley" Cyborg Season 2026 & Red Bull01:47:04 – Tränen hinter der Sonnenbrille01:51:40 – Sommerloch, Istanbul & Abschluss

The history of sports in Turkey is deeply contested. Over the decades, journalists, pundits, non-professional historians, sports scholars, and everyday people have offered competing narratives about the origins of modern sports in the late Ottoman Empire.  In The Ottoman World of Sports: Refashioning Bodies, Men, and Communities in Late Imperial Istanbul (University of Texas Press, 2026), Murat Cihan Yıldız tells the story of how Istanbul's Muslims, Christians, and Jews—gymnastics teachers, football coaches, weightlifters, journalists, athletes, and fans—created a gendered and class-stratified civic project that promoted athletics as a source of fun, beauty, and moral education. Influenced by the emerging global vogue for organized sports, all boys from the expanding middle class of the late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century imperial capital were expected to exercise and compete on the playing field in order to develop into moral men. Yet even as the embrace of modern athletics transcended ethnoreligious divisions, it did not erase them. Drawing on a wide range of archival research in multiple languages, Yıldız shows that sportsmen created new communal boundaries in team affiliations, fandom, and sports media. Adeptly reconstructing Istanbul's imperial culture as it was experienced more than a century ago, The Ottoman World of Sports recovers a lived imperial culture whose defining features were shaped by its multiethnic, multireligious, and multilingual sportsmen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

The history of sports in Turkey is deeply contested. Over the decades, journalists, pundits, non-professional historians, sports scholars, and everyday people have offered competing narratives about the origins of modern sports in the late Ottoman Empire.  In The Ottoman World of Sports: Refashioning Bodies, Men, and Communities in Late Imperial Istanbul (University of Texas Press, 2026), Murat Cihan Yıldız tells the story of how Istanbul's Muslims, Christians, and Jews—gymnastics teachers, football coaches, weightlifters, journalists, athletes, and fans—created a gendered and class-stratified civic project that promoted athletics as a source of fun, beauty, and moral education. Influenced by the emerging global vogue for organized sports, all boys from the expanding middle class of the late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century imperial capital were expected to exercise and compete on the playing field in order to develop into moral men. Yet even as the embrace of modern athletics transcended ethnoreligious divisions, it did not erase them. Drawing on a wide range of archival research in multiple languages, Yıldız shows that sportsmen created new communal boundaries in team affiliations, fandom, and sports media. Adeptly reconstructing Istanbul's imperial culture as it was experienced more than a century ago, The Ottoman World of Sports recovers a lived imperial culture whose defining features were shaped by its multiethnic, multireligious, and multilingual sportsmen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

The history of sports in Turkey is deeply contested. Over the decades, journalists, pundits, non-professional historians, sports scholars, and everyday people have offered competing narratives about the origins of modern sports in the late Ottoman Empire.  In The Ottoman World of Sports: Refashioning Bodies, Men, and Communities in Late Imperial Istanbul (University of Texas Press, 2026), Murat Cihan Yıldız tells the story of how Istanbul's Muslims, Christians, and Jews—gymnastics teachers, football coaches, weightlifters, journalists, athletes, and fans—created a gendered and class-stratified civic project that promoted athletics as a source of fun, beauty, and moral education. Influenced by the emerging global vogue for organized sports, all boys from the expanding middle class of the late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century imperial capital were expected to exercise and compete on the playing field in order to develop into moral men. Yet even as the embrace of modern athletics transcended ethnoreligious divisions, it did not erase them. Drawing on a wide range of archival research in multiple languages, Yıldız shows that sportsmen created new communal boundaries in team affiliations, fandom, and sports media. Adeptly reconstructing Istanbul's imperial culture as it was experienced more than a century ago, The Ottoman World of Sports recovers a lived imperial culture whose defining features were shaped by its multiethnic, multireligious, and multilingual sportsmen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/gender-studies

The history of sports in Turkey is deeply contested. Over the decades, journalists, pundits, non-professional historians, sports scholars, and everyday people have offered competing narratives about the origins of modern sports in the late Ottoman Empire.  In The Ottoman World of Sports: Refashioning Bodies, Men, and Communities in Late Imperial Istanbul (University of Texas Press, 2026), Murat Cihan Yıldız tells the story of how Istanbul's Muslims, Christians, and Jews—gymnastics teachers, football coaches, weightlifters, journalists, athletes, and fans—created a gendered and class-stratified civic project that promoted athletics as a source of fun, beauty, and moral education. Influenced by the emerging global vogue for organized sports, all boys from the expanding middle class of the late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century imperial capital were expected to exercise and compete on the playing field in order to develop into moral men. Yet even as the embrace of modern athletics transcended ethnoreligious divisions, it did not erase them. Drawing on a wide range of archival research in multiple languages, Yıldız shows that sportsmen created new communal boundaries in team affiliations, fandom, and sports media. Adeptly reconstructing Istanbul's imperial culture as it was experienced more than a century ago, The Ottoman World of Sports recovers a lived imperial culture whose defining features were shaped by its multiethnic, multireligious, and multilingual sportsmen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sports

The history of sports in Turkey is deeply contested. Over the decades, journalists, pundits, non-professional historians, sports scholars, and everyday people have offered competing narratives about the origins of modern sports in the late Ottoman Empire.  In The Ottoman World of Sports: Refashioning Bodies, Men, and Communities in Late Imperial Istanbul (University of Texas Press, 2026), Murat Cihan Yıldız tells the story of how Istanbul's Muslims, Christians, and Jews—gymnastics teachers, football coaches, weightlifters, journalists, athletes, and fans—created a gendered and class-stratified civic project that promoted athletics as a source of fun, beauty, and moral education. Influenced by the emerging global vogue for organized sports, all boys from the expanding middle class of the late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century imperial capital were expected to exercise and compete on the playing field in order to develop into moral men. Yet even as the embrace of modern athletics transcended ethnoreligious divisions, it did not erase them. Drawing on a wide range of archival research in multiple languages, Yıldız shows that sportsmen created new communal boundaries in team affiliations, fandom, and sports media. Adeptly reconstructing Istanbul's imperial culture as it was experienced more than a century ago, The Ottoman World of Sports recovers a lived imperial culture whose defining features were shaped by its multiethnic, multireligious, and multilingual sportsmen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

In the midst of a world in upheaval, Erdoğan has remade Turkey in his own image. Once a shining portal that straddled East and West, Istanbul's streets now teem with nationalistic fervour, political repression and rampant corruption. In the old Ottoman neighbourhood of Karagumruk, journalist Suzy Hansen goes looking for the truth about modern Turkey. In this episode of the podcast, Suzy will show how– through the lives of local inhabitants–  conflicts are spiralling into regional crises, deepening the fault lines now fracturing Europe and the Middle East. Join us for an eye-opening account of a nation on the frontlines of history– the rise of an autocrat, the resurrection of an empire, and the human stories unfolding in its shadow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Intensifying clashes between Ukraine and Russia in the Black Sea are threatening a crucial trade artery responsible for nearly a third of the world's wheat supply, stoking fears of soaring prices and shortages. Earlier in July, a Russian cruise missile struck the grain carrier Golden Leo, claiming ten lives. This marked the deadliest blow yet in a mounting campaign by both Russian and Ukrainian forces targeting cargo ships in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. "This is a new development in recent months," claims shipping analyst Yoruk Isik, who runs the Istanbul-based Bosphorus Observer consultancy. Isik warns that cargo vessels are caught in a deadly tit-for-tat. "Ukraine has been targeting Russian seaborne bulkers in particular, the ones transporting stolen grain from the occupied territories of Ukraine," explains Isik, "Russia retaliated and hit Ukraine's civilian port infrastructure in Odesa; a mid-sized vessel carrying corn out of Odesa was totally sunk, other vessels were damaged, and sailors died," he adds. Turkey's Shipowners' Association, having logged 136 incidents involving commercial vessels in recent months, is now urging its members to avoid the Black Sea altogether. Beyond its role as a key channel for Russian oil, the Black Sea is a lifeline for global grain exports, with Russia and Ukraine among the top suppliers. "It is very important to note that most of Russia's agricultural commodities are exported through the Black Sea, and that almost all of Ukraine's agricultural commodities are shipped via Ukraine's ports," warns Isik. Bad timing for harvest  Around a third of the world's wheat moves through these waters. The surge in attacks across the Black Sea and the neighbouring Sea of Azov has brought exports to a near standstill. "No port is officially closed, but almost no shipowner wants to go there, so trade is close to zero," claims Istanbul-based international grain dealer Can Atbasoglu. "Sellers want buyers to handle the vessels, and buyers want sellers to handle the vessels, but shipowners don't want to risk it." This deadlock arrives at the worst possible moment: harvest time. "Normally, Russian sellers would have sold all their August cargoes by now; I don't know if anybody has any sales on their books at present," says Atbasoglu. Turkey agrees deal to clear Black Sea of mines that threaten Ukrainian exports Wheat prices are already reacting. "The price in Romania is, say, 20-25 percent higher – that's the clearest effect we're seeing. But everybody is waiting for some kind of intervention, and soon," adds Atbasoglu. Turkey now leads a NATO mission, along with Bulgaria and Romania, to safeguard navigation in the Black Sea. However, former Turkish ambassador and navigation rights expert Mithat Rende believes Ankara will be wary of any effort to enforce passage for commercial ships. "It's very important that the Ukrainian war should not be transformed into a regional war," cautions Rende. "Where would it stop? Would you fire missiles and intercept Russian missiles in the Black Sea? They (Russia) already accuse all of us of fighting Russia as NATO. It's very important to avoid such operations," he adds. Full impact yet to be felt Rende argues Ankara's priority is diplomacy, having played a pivotal role in brokering the 2022 United Nations-backed grain export deal after Russian forces blocked Ukrainian shipments. "Turkey maintained a dialogue with both the Russian and the Ukrainian sides at the same time," says Rende, "But is there political will for a ceasefire now? I don't see it at present." Grain trader Atbasoglu warns the full impact of the disruption is not yet reflected in prices. "Buyers are still not fully reacting. It's seen more as an August, or at the latest a September issue, and the markets still want to believe both sides will get together and talk," he says. However, Atbasoglu cautions that time may be running out. "In 2022, Ukraine was completely closed off, and there was a major panic. We saw the effect: wheat prices jumped 50 percent in 2022, and we could expect something similar if this continues," he concludes. Africa and the Middle East, which are heavily reliant on Black Sea grain, are beginning to seek pricier alternatives. Europe, too, may soon feel the strain, as drought-hit wheat harvests threaten to push global food prices even higher.

The history of sports in Turkey is deeply contested. Over the decades, journalists, pundits, non-professional historians, sports scholars, and everyday people have offered competing narratives about the origins of modern sports in the late Ottoman Empire.  In The Ottoman World of Sports: Refashioning Bodies, Men, and Communities in Late Imperial Istanbul (University of Texas Press, 2026), Murat Cihan Yıldız tells the story of how Istanbul's Muslims, Christians, and Jews—gymnastics teachers, football coaches, weightlifters, journalists, athletes, and fans—created a gendered and class-stratified civic project that promoted athletics as a source of fun, beauty, and moral education. Influenced by the emerging global vogue for organized sports, all boys from the expanding middle class of the late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century imperial capital were expected to exercise and compete on the playing field in order to develop into moral men. Yet even as the embrace of modern athletics transcended ethnoreligious divisions, it did not erase them. Drawing on a wide range of archival research in multiple languages, Yıldız shows that sportsmen created new communal boundaries in team affiliations, fandom, and sports media. Adeptly reconstructing Istanbul's imperial culture as it was experienced more than a century ago, The Ottoman World of Sports recovers a lived imperial culture whose defining features were shaped by its multiethnic, multireligious, and multilingual sportsmen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/book-of-the-day

Hull City are in Istanbul for the second leg of their pre-season trip, and are preparing to face Kasimpasa on Saturday. Transfer chatter continues to dominate the news agenda, and in today's episode, Baz (and his dodgy laptop) is joined by Kathryn and Fletch to talk the latest arrivals, expected incomings and speculation. Get your exclusive discounted offer on your NORD VPN: ⁠⁠⁠Click here to go to the dedicated page⁠⁠. There's no risk with NORD's 30-day money-back guarantee. away this summer but still want to be able to watch all your favourite shows, including televised Hull City games - then sign up to NORD VPN to ensure you can access all streaming services even when out of the UK! Sign up, stay secure and support the podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Urlaub an den schönsten Plätzen Europas, darum geht es in der Urlaubs-Serie von Ramazan Demir, Imam und Religionspädagoge. In seinen „Gedanken für den Tag“ lädt er heute ein, ihm zu folgen an die letzte Station des historischen Orient-Express. Gestaltung: Alexandra Mantler – Eine Eigenproduktion des ORF, gesendet in Ö1 am 29.07.2026

“There is the burden of being homeless and the burden of being judged for it.” — Saumya Roy on poverty in America How does the world look at America in the MAGA age? This is our third conversation drawn from How We See It, a collection of essays about America from the excellent new publication The Dial. In the first, The Dial's Paris-based editor Madeleine Schwartz offered a very French version about the oddities of Trump's America. In the second, the Turkish novelist and commentator Kaya Genç gave us his view from Istanbul. Today, we have a take on America from the Indian-born Saumya Roy, Al Jazeera's San Francisco correspondent and the author of Castaway Mountain, a book about the wastepickers of her hometown Mumbai. Saumya Roy's inside-out America is the one glimpsed from the back of a San Francisco cab, whose Indian driver told her he'd walked here from Mumbai. In her Dial essay, Roy compares the poverty of her hometown, Mumbai — the subject of Castaway Mountain — with the homelessness outside that San Francisco cab. The comparison isn't quite what you'd expect. Mumbai's poverty is vaster and more dehumanizing — a hundred thousand street people against San Francisco's eight thousand. But in Mumbai Roy finds a social kind of poverty, whereas in San Francisco it's atomized and isolating. In the land of personal responsibility, she reports, there's a double burden of being on the street: being homeless, and being judged for it. Some of the street people Roy meets even shower at a gym each Christmas so their families won't know their predicament. And yet Roy still recognizes the American dream. She reports that it often burns brighter in a Mumbai slum — where a young gig worker told her he wants to be “the Elon Musk of India” — than it does in America itself. That dream can be real, she says, just as it can be cracked. From the back of her San Francisco cab, Saumya Roy sees both Americas. Five Takeaways •       “I Walked from Mumbai to the US.” A cab driver's five-word answer contains the whole story. In the popular imagination, Indian America is the America of tech CEOs and startup founders; beneath it are millions — many undocumented — who chased the same dream, work small jobs, and were left behind by the wave. San Francisco, Roy observes, is a boom and bust town — dot-com, social media, now AI — and the American dream is a wave: catch it and you make an amazing life; miss it and you may end up sleeping in the subway car of the world's richest city. The dream, she says, can be fulfilled — and the dream can be cracked.•       The Double Burden. Mumbai's poverty is vaster and more dehumanizing than anything in America — children dying of tuberculosis in their teens, perhaps 100,000 people on the street against San Francisco's eight thousand. But it is social: even at a distance you see cooking smells, cradles, families living together on the sidewalk. American homelessness struck Roy as profoundly isolated — everything owned in a shopping cart, riding the train aimlessly because no one is waiting anywhere. And the ideology of personal responsibility cuts both ways: if success is earned, failure must be deserved. Hence the double burden — being homeless, and being judged for it — and the people who shower at a gym each Christmas so their families won't learn where they live.•       What Is Growth For? The AI boom is minting $250 million research salaries and trillion-dollar IPOs that will change the face of San Francisco for decades — while polls show seventy to eighty percent of Americans fear losing their jobs to AI investment, and a single medical expense can capsize a family. Young Americans watch the markers of their parents' lives — a home, affordable gas, a job within a year of graduation — drift out of reach. Roy's question is the one policymakers keep dodging: what is growth really for, if it doesn't translate into a better quality of life for the people who need it most?•       The Mumbai Model. Roy's editor at The Dial asked why she wrote “homeless” for San Francisco but not for Mumbai — and the answer became the essay. In Roy's own lifetime, Mumbai has moved more than 100,000 people off its sidewalks and railway tracks: not by sweeps, evictions, and demonization, but by involving communities — especially women — and giving people confidence that the housing they moved to would be safe and secure. Meanwhile only ten to twelve percent of San Francisco's homeless report substance use or mental illness as the cause; eighty-eight percent are simply priced out, often working two or three jobs. As Roy puts it: they deserve a hug more than they deserve to be evicted.•       The Dream Burns Brighter Abroad. Reporting on unemployment in a Mumbai slum, Roy climbed a steep staircase to interview a young gig worker and asked him his dream. “I want to be the Elon Musk of India,” he said. The American dream, Roy suggests, now burns brighter in Mumbai and the Gulf than in America itself — where the darkness is emotional rather than economic, a mourning for the idea of America rather than its numbers. Neither MAGA nor doom-monger, Roy watches a country that leads the world in innovation while paying developers not to build wind farms, and concludes that what people everywhere are grappling for — left, right, and abroad — is a system that reflects the crises they actually live. About the Guest Saumya Roy is Al Jazeera's San Francisco-based correspondent, covering technology and the environment. A former Mumbai journalist who co-founded the microfinance nonprofit Vandana Foundation, she is the author of Castaway Mountain: Love and Loss Among the Wastepickers of Mumbai (Astra House, 2021), one of NPR's best books of the year. Her essay on Mumbai, San Francisco, and the American dream appears in How We See It: The World Looks at America in the Age of Trump (The New Press, June 2026), edited by Madeleine Schwartz. References: •       How We See It: The World Looks at America in the Age of Trump, edited by Madeleine Schwartz (The New Press, June 2026). Adam Shatz: “It is often foreigners who understand us best.”•       Castaway Mountain: Love and Loss Among the Wastepickers of Mumbai by Saumya Roy — her acclaimed account of the lives built on Mumbai's Deonar garbage mountain, an NPR best book of 2021.•       Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo — the Mumbai classic in whose tradition Roy's reporting stands.•       Madeleine Schwartz and The Dial — the volume's editor, whose own Keen On America conversation about the book preceded this one.•       Stephen Marche — the old friend of the show whose re...

As both the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church have seen a huge surge of young adults converting in recent years, Kari and Harry have fielded many questions from people interested in learning more about their faith. In this episode, they share the backstory of their spiritual journey, how it's evolved, and their big hope for the future. Ep. 107 Show Notes: o  Favorite Podcasts: The Bible in a Year, The Catechism in a Year, Father Evan Armatas, Word on Fire, Live with the Louhs, The Arenao  Hallow Appo Father Mike Schmitz on Catholic + Orthodox Common Ground on the Eucharist - “Pray for the unity of Christians, that one day, what divides us as Christians, may be overcome by what unites us as Christians.”o "Pope Leo XIV attends the Divine Liturgy at the Patriarchal Church of Saint George in Istanbul, and joins Patriarch Bartholomew I to underscore the bonds that unite us in our Christian faith and the continuing efforts to seek full communion"o  Join Kari on Substack, Instagram, or Facebook; Sign Up for Kari's email listo Kari's Bestselling Book for Moms: Is Your Daughter Ready?o Kari's Bestselling Devo for Teen & College Girls: Yours, Not Hers: 40 Devotions to Stop Comparisons and Love Your Lifeo  Kari's Books: Love Her Well, More Than a Mom, 10 Ultimate Truths Girls Should Know and Liked: Whose Approval Are You Living For? 

The Israeli parliament's decision to postpone a vote on recognising the Armenian genocide by Ottoman Turkey is being seen as a triumph for regional diplomacy, as Azerbaijan in particular seeks to avert a further escalation in tensions between its close allies. The Israeli government gave no official reason for postponing the vote to formally recognise the Armenian genocide by Ottoman Turkey during World War I, which would have ratified a motion approved by the cabinet last month.  Ankara strongly denies the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Armenians constitute genocide. While the motion's architect, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, called recognition a “moral duty”, critics say the move took aim at Turkey amidst rising tensions. Based in Tbilisi, Israeli defence and security expert Eugene Kogan claims Israel badly miscalculated. “Foreign Minister Sa'ar could have waited and not just dropped a bomb that led to different repercussions coming from different sides,” he said. Armenia, which is seeking to normalise ties with Turkey, reacted coolly, with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan saying he saw no need to comment. Meanwhile, Israel's close ally Azerbaijan reportedly lobbied Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to drop the motion. “At the end of the day, it might be either dropped or dismissed, and it will not come again to the new parliament agenda,” predicted Kogan. The Knesset dissolved on 17 July and won't reconvene until after elections scheduled for 27 October. Israel's recognition of the Armenian genocide unsettles Turkey and Azerbaijan Azerbaijan's influence The Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that pressure from Azerbaijan tipped the scales, though officials deny it. Azerbaijan supplies nearly 40 percent of Israel's oil and is a major customer for Israeli arms. The two countries' partnership involves frequent Israeli ministerial visits and strong military cooperation, especially crucial for Israel given Azerbaijan's border with Iran. Baku also maintains a deep alliance with Ankara, summed up in the phrase “one nation, two states”. As Israeli-Turkish tensions flare over the Gaza conflict and Ankara's support for Hamas, Azerbaijan is walking a diplomatic tightrope. Zaur Gasimov, a Caucasus expert at Istanbul's Turkish-German University, believes Baku viewed the Israeli genocide motion as a direct threat to its difficult balancing act. “I can imagine that there were negotiations and talks on various levels between political elites of both countries,” he said. “For Israel, Azerbaijan is still of paramount importance. I would even say it's much more significant than it used to be with regard to the situation in and around Iran. So Baku was and is maybe the key intermediary between Israel and the Republic of Turkey.” In what may be a calculated move to turn up the heat on Israel, Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev welcomed Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa this month. It was the first visit by a Palestinian leader since 2011. “They [Israel] perceive it with a great sense of caution,” claimed analyst Kogan. “They don't know exactly what came out of this particular meeting between Aliyev and the Palestinian prime minister. And so there is a lot of guessing games right now taking place in both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem about the outcome.” Such ambiguity over Baku's intentions could strengthen its diplomatic hand, he suggested: “If Aliyev is involved in this Palestinian issue directly and no longer indirectly, it makes the situation very different for the Israelis.” Turkey warns it could be Israel's 'next enemy' as tensions escalate Syrian precedent Baku is already leveraging its strong relationships with both Israel and Turkey to cool tempers. “We have organised meetings between Turkey and Israel in Baku, specifically at the very beginning of the change of the Assad regime in Syria, where both parties had their own legitimate concerns,” said Hikmet Hajiyev, chief foreign policy adviser to the Azerbaijani president. Syria is viewed as a potential flashpoint, with Israel and Turkey having a military presence. One tangible outcome of Azeri-brokered talks was the establishment last year of a military hotline in Syria, providing a rare glimmer of hope as tensions continue to mount. “It's not unavoidable that Israel and Turkey will reach confrontation. I think we can stop this process,” argued Gallia Lindenstrauss, a specialist in Turkish foreign policy at Tel Aviv University's Institute for National Security Studies. “They have a hotline between the Israeli Air Force and the Turkish Air Force, making sure that we will not have a collision in the skies of Syria, because we know both air forces are operating there. And the hotline has managed to keep the situation quiet. If I'm trying to find some anchor of reassurance that Turkish-Israeli relations can be controlled, it's Syria.” As Israel approaches elections, a temporary lull in Turkish-Israeli tensions is anticipated. Still, since the main opposition shares the government's concerns over Turkey, relations are set to remain fraught.

Klingel, Zeugnis, Arme hoch, raus! Sechs Wochen, die sich anfühlen wie ein anderer Planet. Wie kriegt man dieses Gefühl noch einmal zurück?Michi klettert mit dreizehn Jahren nachts aus einem Zugfenster in Ostende. Jochen fliegt an der Costa Brava auf, weil im verspiegelten Fahrstuhl die Disco-Sticker leuchten. Diese Naivität, dieses Es-passiert-gleich-was - genau das versuchen wir bis heute mit auf jede Reise zu nehmen.Und dann ein Ort, an den niemand freiwillig reist: Ein paar Schneeflocken legen London lahm, alle Flüge sind gestrichen, und ein Shuttle-Bus setzt Jochen im Dunkeln vor einem Hotel ab, in dem hunderte Fremde dasselbe Schicksal teilen: steckengeblieben zu sein. Business-Typen, die ins Nichts starren. Fremde, die zusammen feiern. Kinder, die aus Langeweile winzige Schneemänner auf Parkplätzen bauen. Wie ein Raumschiff im Orbit, in dem alle festhängen und niemand weiß, wo genau man ist und wann es weitergeht.Dazu kommen die lieben Jenny und Basti von 22places mit Packtipps, die selbst bei Jochen noch was reißen könnten. Und eine Weekender Card, die überraschend tief geht: ein Mitbringsel, das mehr bedeutet als sein Preis.Schönes Wochenende, ihr Lieben.—

Eine Metropole auf zwei Kontinenten, getrennt durch Wasser. Fünfzehn Millionen Menschen, die größte Stadt Europas, Hügel so steil, dass deine Schritte-App durchdreht, und abends wartet eine kleine orange Katze darauf, dass du nach Hause kommst.Camilla war in Istanbul. Jochen träumt schon lange davon, kommt als Journalist aber gerade nicht so leicht hin. Also hat die Chefin übernommen und alles mitgebracht, was diese Stadt ausmacht.Istanbul ist laut, riesig, fordernd. Aber das Geheimnis liegt in den Pausen. Du steigst auf eine Fähre, trinkst Tee aus dem Glas, und plötzlich wird diese riesige Stadt zwischen zwei Kontinenten für zwanzig Minuten ganz still. Du setzt dich auf eine Bank, und schon streicht dir eine Katze ums Bein. Du stehst in der blauen Stunde vor der Blauen Moschee und bekommst eine Gänsehaut, die du nicht bestellt hast.Dazwischen isst du dich durch eine Metropole, die weder die saure Gurke noch den süßen Cheesecake auslässt. Fermentierte Säfte to go, ein Maiskolben vom Wagen auf dem Weg zur Fähre und immer, wenn der Trubel zu groß wird, hilft derselbe Tipp: geh einmal mehr um die Ecke. Hinter der nächsten Straße, hinter einer unscheinbaren braunen Holztür, wartet manchmal eine ganze Oase. Oder ein kleines neues Abenteuer.—Unsere Werbepartner findet ihr hier.

"Everything starts with trust." "Start with listening." "Culture is nothing different from the collective behaviour of people." "Dare to do things differently." "Leadership is giving direction and inspiration to bring out the best possible for the organisation." Brief Bio Karl Deppen is President and Chief Executive Officer of ARCHION Corporation, the new holding company bringing together Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and Hino Motors. ARCHION began operations on 1 April 2026, combining two major Japanese commercial-vehicle brands to strengthen scale, competitiveness and investment in decarbonised transport, autonomous driving and digital mobility solutions. Deppen began his career more than 35 years ago with the former Daimler-Benz Group in procurement and supply-chain management. His international assignments have included Portland, Istanbul, Beijing, Stuttgart, Brazil and Japan. He has held roles spanning procurement, logistics, product management, leadership development, finance and general management, including Regional CFO for Daimler's China operations, responsibility for finance across Mercedes-Benz assembly plants and R&D operations, leadership of the South American truck business, membership of the Daimler Truck Board of Management with responsibility for Asia, and President and CEO of Mitsubishi Fuso. His first Japan assignment began in 2002, when he became one of the earliest Daimler employees to join Mitsubishi Fuso after Daimler acquired a stake. That experience, followed by a return to Japan two decades later, shaped his conviction that adaptability in Japan begins with patient listening, understanding context and resisting the urge to impose pre-formed answers. Narrative Summary Karl Deppen's leadership journey is unusually broad, even by the standards of a global automotive executive. Over more than three decades, he has moved across functions, continents and cultures, building experience in procurement, supply chains, product management, human resources, finance and operational leadership. That range now matters enormously. As President and CEO of ARCHION Corporation, he is leading the integration of Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino at a time when the commercial-vehicle industry is being reshaped by decarbonisation, autonomous driving, digitalisation and intensifying Asian competition. His first encounter with Japan came in 2002. He arrived without Japanese language ability or previous exposure to the country and entered a highly operational environment at Mitsubishi Fuso. The language barrier sharpened his ability to observe, draw, use numbers and read what people were trying to communicate. More importantly, it taught him patience. Trust was not created through positional authority or a perfectly delivered executive message. It emerged through repeated interaction, careful listening and a visible effort to understand. That lesson became central to his approach when he returned to Japan roughly twenty years later. Rather than assuming that earlier experience gave him a complete map, he deliberately treated the country and company as changed environments. Japan is a high-context culture, and effective leadership requires understanding the operating system beneath visible processes. What can initially look slow, complicated or overly cautious may reflect customer requirements, stakeholder commitments, quality expectations or prior experience. Deppen's practical response is to ask why repeatedly, suspend judgement and speak directly with employees, customers, suppliers, banks and other stakeholders before changing the system. He also sees genuine strength in Japanese decision-making. Consensus building through nemawashi and formal approval mechanisms such as the ringi-sho can extend the front end of a decision, but once the team is aligned, execution can be exceptionally fast. The leadership opportunity is therefore not to discard consensus, but to shorten decision cycles while preserving commitment and execution discipline. This is decision intelligence in practice: understanding not only what decision should be made, but how the organisation must be engaged so that the decision becomes real. Trust, transparency, empowerment and accountability form the backbone of Deppen's leadership philosophy. Employees need enough information to understand direction, freedom to act within clear expectations and accountability for outcomes. Difficult moments are decisive proof points. Leaders either build trust by listening to bad news and solving problems, or destroy it by shooting the messenger. In a zero-defect culture, fear can drive mistakes underground. Psychological safety is therefore not softness; it is an operating requirement that allows risks, missed targets and errors to surface early enough to be corrected. Innovation follows the same logic. Deppen supports structured improvement circles, skip-level dialogue, pilots and repeated lessons-learned reviews. The goal is not reckless experimentation, but controlled learning: try something on a limited scale, assess what worked, identify root causes when it did not, refine the process and then scale. For artificial intelligence, he argues that simply digitising an existing paper workflow rarely changes the needle. Companies need end-to-end redesign at the data layer, potentially supported by tools such as digital twins, automation and integrated decision systems. Ultimately, Deppen defines culture as collective behaviour. Purpose, vision and values matter only when translated into visible practices: what people do, what they refuse to tolerate, how they respond to mistakes and how they treat one another. His advice to leaders arriving in Japan is therefore disciplined and practical: start with listening, understand the context, assume there is a reason behind existing behaviour, learn enough language to widen access to the culture, and build the trust that makes change possible. Q&A Summary What makes leadership in Japan unique? Japan combines a high-context communication environment with strong expectations around quality, detail and collective commitment. Decisions are rarely just agreements between two senior people. They are embedded in a wider network of stakeholders, informal nemawashi and formal mechanisms such as the ringi-sho. This can make the decision phase appear slow, particularly to executives from low-context cultures. The advantage is that once consensus is genuine, implementation can move with impressive speed because the people responsible for execution understand the rationale and are already committed. Effective leadership therefore respects the social architecture of the decision while working to reduce unnecessary delay. Why do global executives struggle? Global executives often arrive with a strong track record and an assumption that proven headquarters practices should be transferred quickly. The visible process may look inefficient, bureaucratic or resistant to change. Deppen cautions that there is usually a good reason for why people do things the way they do. The reason may sit with a Japanese customer, a regulatory expectation, a quality requirement or an unspoken stakeholder agreement. Leaders struggle when they judge before they investigate. Direct engagement with employees, customers, suppliers, banks and partners helps reveal the operating context and prevents premature restructuring based on incomplete information. Is Japan truly risk-averse? Japan often displays high uncertainty avoidance, especially where mistakes can damage reputation, customer trust or career security. However, Deppen distinguishes caution from an unwillingness to improve. The greater danger is a zero-error aspiration that encourages people to conceal problems. Leaders must create psychological safety for employees to raise a flag, admit that a target may be missed and request help. Innovation becomes possible when experiments are bounded through pilots, resources and review points. A failed pilot should produce a structured lesson, not a search for someone to blame. What leadership style actually works? Deppen's approach begins with active listening and develops through communication, transparency, empowerment and accountability. He argues that people quickly sense whether a leader is genuinely trying to understand them. Trust grows through meaningful dialogue and is tested when conditions become difficult. Leaders must clarify expectations, provide freedom to operate and hold people accountable without turning accountability into punishment. He summarises his model as TEAM: trust, empowerment, accountability and mutual ambition. Shared ambition matters because a large, team-dependent organisation cannot succeed if the CEO's targets are not believed or owned by the wider workforce. How can technology help? Technology can accelerate transformation, but only when leaders redesign work rather than automate yesterday's process. Applying artificial intelligence to an existing paper flow may produce marginal efficiency without changing the business outcome. A stronger approach examines the process end to end, starts with the data layer and asks how the workflow would be designed if digital capability were native from the beginning. AI, automation, decision intelligence and digital twins can improve speed, visibility and scenario testing, but the human organisation still needs the trust and learning discipline required to adopt them. Does language proficiency matter? Japanese proficiency helps because language opens a window into culture, relationships and assumptions that may not be stated directly. Deppen also notes that Japan contains substantial English capability, although employees may hesitate to speak when they fear exposure or embarrassment. Leaders can lower that barrier through patience, written follow-up, visual explanation and an environment in which imperfect language is accepted. Language should improve communication, not become an excuse to avoid it. What's the ultimate leadership lesson? The central lesson is to start with listening. A leader entering Japan should temporarily set aside fixed ideas about what is right or wrong and first understand the existing operating system. Culture is the collective behaviour of people, so change depends on the practices that leaders repeatedly model and reinforce. Purpose and values provide direction, but trust turns them into action. Leadership succeeds when people understand the direction, feel empowered to contribute, accept accountability and share the ambition to achieve something together. Author Credentials Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver globally across all leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programs, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three best-sellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have also been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō (ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin (プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう), and Gendaiban "Hito o Ugokasu" Rīdā (現代版「人を動かす」リーダー). In addition to his books, Greg publishes daily blogs on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, offering practical insights on leadership, communication, and Japanese business culture. He is also the host of six weekly podcasts, including The Leadership Japan Series, The Sales Japan Series, The Presentations Japan Series, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews. On YouTube, he produces three weekly shows — The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews — which have become leading resources for executives seeking strategies for success in Japan.

Today we visit a baklava shop in Istanbul at the intersection of autocracy, violence and urban renewal. Kelly speaks with journalist Suzy Hansen, author of the book “ From Life Itself: Turkey and Istanbul in the Age of Erdogan” about a 2019 attack on a Syrian-owned sweet shop and what it says about Turkey today.  (Note: the sweet shop we discuss in this episode, El Nour, is still open today and can be found in Istanbul's Karagümrük neighborhood, here is a link on Google Maps.)  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aston Villa have shattered their transfer record to land 20-year-old Swiss midfield phenom Johan Manzambi from SC Freiburg in a £59.5 million deal. In this episode, we break down how Unai Emery's side crashed Newcastle's medical party at the eleventh hour to secure one of Europe's most sought-after young talents.From his standout campaign at Freiburg—which included a Europa League final showdown against Villa in Istanbul—to his history-making super-sub performance at the 2026 World Cup for Switzerland, we analyze where Manzambi fits into Emery's tactical Swiss Army knife and what this massive statement tells us about Villa's ambitious trajectory. `Johan Manzambi` `Aston Villa` `Unai Emery` `SC Freiburg` `Newcastle United Transfer` `Premier League Transfers 2026` `World Cup 2026` `Villa Park` `Tactical Breakdown`

Samuel Ben-Ur and Bill Roggio. The Hamas political bureau has relocated to Istanbul, choosing Khalil al-Hayya as a leader closely aligned with Iran and Hezbollah. Inside Gaza, Hamas continues to obstruct food distribution and hijack aid supplies. While Israel successfully eliminated several military commanders, the organization has yet to name replacements. New "pilot zones" are being explored to distribute aid through Palestinian alternatives, potentially bypassing Hamas control. (10)1962 YEMEN

Help us expand our Muslim media project here: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipDonate to our charity partner Baitulmaal here:http://btml.us/thinkingmuslimThe Middle East is changing rapidly, but are we witnessing the end of conflict or simply the beginning of a new phase?In this episode of The Thinking Muslim, Muhammad Jalal sits down with geopolitical analyst Sami Hamdi to examine the shifting balance of power across the Middle East. From Donald Trump's claim that the war is over, to Iran's long-term strategy, the role of Saudi Arabia, the Houthis, and America's approach to the region, this conversation explores the political calculations shaping today's headlines.The discussion also examines whether attitudes towards Israel are beginning to change in both the United States and the United Kingdom, looking at JD Vance's comments on the Israel lobby, sanctions on violent Israeli settlers in the West Bank, and Andy Burnham's remarks on Palestine.The episode opens with reflections on the TPSS Conference in Istanbul and concludes with a personal conversation about Sami's outlook after years of analysing one of the world's most volatile regions.About Sami Hamdi:Sami Hamdi is a British journalist, political commentator, and risk intelligence advisor specialising in Middle Eastern affairs and international geopolitics. Renowned for his strategic analysis of the region, he regularly provides insight into the political, military, and diplomatic developments shaping the Middle East.In 2025, Hamdi was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while in the United States, reportedly in connection with statements he had made about the war in Gaza. Today, Sami Hamdi remains one of the leading voices analysing the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape of the Middle EastYou can find Sami Hamdi here:X: https://x.com/SALHACHIMIIG: https://www.instagram.com/salhachimi/‎Follow the The Thinking Muslim channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbDYCfV5PO199ImLqZ34Become a member here:https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/membershipOr give your one-off donation here:https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/donateListen to the audio version of the podcast:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vXiAjVFnhNI3T9Gkw636aApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-thinking-muslim/id1471798762Purchase our Thinking Muslim mug: https://www.thinkingmuslim.com/merchFind us on:X: https://x.com/thinking_muslimLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-thinking-muslim/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Thinking-Muslim-Podcast-105790781361490Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinkingmuslimpodcast/Telegram: https://t.me/thinkingmuslimBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/thinkingmuslim.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.com/@thinkingmuslimpodcastFind Muhammad Jalal here:X: https://twitter.com/jalalaynInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jalalayns/Sign up to Muhammad Jalal's newsletter: https://jalalayn.substack.comWebsite Archive: https://www.thinkingmuslim.comDisclaimer:The views expressed in this video are those of the individual speaker(s) and do not represent the views of the host, producers, platform, or any affiliated organisation. This content is provided for lawful, informational, and analytical purposes only, and should not be taken as professional advice. Viewer discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

https://youtu.be/L1wE2Koy7eQ Tomas Milar, Founder and CEO of Eqvista, is passionate about helping businesses value what’s hard to value by making private company valuations more accurate, transparent, and actionable. Through a product-first mindset and relentless innovation, Tomas has built Eqvista into a leading equity management and private market valuation platform serving more than 25,000 companies, helping founders, investors, and employees make better decisions with real-time company valuations. We explore Tomas Milar’s PrivateCo Valuation Framework: Industry Data, Private Data, Public Comparables, Client Data, and Audit Defensibility. Tomas explains why accurate private company valuations require combining multiple data sources instead of relying on static reports, how proprietary datasets and public market benchmarks improve pricing precision, and why audit-defensible valuations build confidence for fundraising, compliance, and M&A transactions. He also shares how a product-first approach has fueled Eqvista’s growth while advancing real-time valuations and expanding shareholder liquidity through controlled tender offers. — Value What’s Hard to Value with Tom Milar  Good day, dear listeners. Steve Preda here with the Management Blueprint Podcast, and my guest today is Tomas Milar, the founder and CEO of Eqvista, a leading equity management and private market valuation platform serving more than 25,000 companies. Tom, welcome to the show.  Steve, thank you so much for having me. Thank you.  Well, you’ve got a very interesting background and business. We talked before the show that both of us are from Europe, studied in different countries, and come from a financial background. So it’s very interesting. Out of the 350-plus guests I’ve had, I’ve never had someone with such a similar background.  Interesting. Thank you. Yes. I took every opportunity to study anywhere. One semester I studied at three different universities at the same time. So yes, I was taking exams left and right at different universities. It would be April in Finland, May in Turkey, and later June back in the Czech Republic.  That’s great.  In one week, I would really make that whole circle. Crazy times.  I heard about professors teaching at multiple universities, but students attending multiple universities… Maybe two at the same time in the same country.  But I had three.  Three in different countries? That’s completely crazy. I guess if you wanted to fast-track your career, get to Silicon Valley young, start a company, and already reach a modicum of success, you had to do that, right?  You know what? Or you drop out of school and do zero schools. That’s also an option. Now let’s be serious for a bit. For me, it wasn’t really about the education. For me, it was whether I could make it. So it was more of a challenge than an academic achievement. Yeah, it was a fun time back then. I would have a Tuesday exam in Turkey, then fly north. I would have to change clothes in Prague because in Finland I was only about 50 miles from the Polar Circle. It would still be winter there, so I’d pack winter clothes and then take an exam in Oulu, which is almost at the Polar Circle. Yeah. So from Istanbul to the Polar Circle. It was a fun time back then.  I saw it on your LinkedIn page—North Ostrobothnia—and I couldn’t imagine where that place was. So I actually Googled it, and the pictures were all ski slopes. I figured it had to be a cold place.  It was very cold. Yes. A lot of saunas.  Yeah, that’s lovely. Let’s get into the topics. One question I always ask my guests is: What is your personal why, and how are you manifesting it in your business?  You know, I learned the hard way that you never ask “why.” At least for me, after living in China. Things just happen. They just happen. Some people don’t really know certain things are possible until they make them possible. So from impossibility to possibility. It’s always interesting to see things happen without a rational reason. I don’t think it’s really about a why. I think it’s really about being naïve when you do things, just doing them, and figuring things out along the way.  Yeah. Well, I agree with you about naïveté. I believe it’s a great entrepreneurial trait because it allows you not to kill good ideas..  Yes, yes. …before they have a chance to develop. And Steve, the more you know about certain things, the less likely you are to start a business in that particular industry, right? Doctors never start hospitals. Bankers never start banks or neobanks because they understand how difficult it is. So that naïveté—to be foolish and hungry—it really works. Yeah. Actually, that’s what works for me. Again, I never thought about business ideas in terms of why I should be doing them. Let me ask you this instead.  What energizes you about running Eqvista?  I think it comes in different phases. Right now, we’re going to launch a controlled tender offer. For those who don’t know what that is, when you issue stock to employees or investors, you can get it back. We don’t really like the term “buy it back,” but that’s essentially what happens. Once you issue options or stock, you can actually buy it back and redistribute those same shares to different investors or shareholders. That’s our new product. We have a very big challenge in front of us, and it’s how to price stock.  We perform valuations on over $8 billion of client assets every month. We’re one of the largest equity valuation platforms on the market. That’s actually what energizes me. Not really the number, but how hard it is to become number one and what drives innovation. Because if you want to be number one at anything, you need to innovate. What we've actually fixed is the report. When you issue stock, you need to have a stock price.Share on X  That stock price reflects the market, how the company is doing, and the different funding rounds. Usually, you find that stock price in a report. It’s a PDF—40 to 60 pages. By the time you receive the report, the valuation is already outdated. One month. Two months. Three, four, five, even six months. In 2026, startups move so fast that in six months some companies grow exponentially. Yeah.  I saw your LinkedIn post about SpaceX. There was an April 2026 valuation of $1.6 trillion. Then you posted again four days ago, showing it was over $2.6 trillion. That’s more than a 40% increase in just two months for one of the most valuable companies in the world. Yeah. How does that happen?  Particularly for SpaceX, there are multiple factors. There’s definitely hype, no doubt about it, because 95 times revenue—that’s ridiculous, right? For a publicly traded company, we usually see six or seven times revenue. That’s probably the best multiple. But 95 times revenue—that’s unheard of. How does that happen? There are multiple reasons, right? One of them is innovation. Another is that SpaceX is the only company actually launching spacecraft into orbit.  And yeah, obviously, there’s the Elon Musk factor. If you look at the space economy, whatever we’re doing on Earth, we’ll be doing the same things in space, right? So looking at SpaceX as a bridge between the dream of space and practically mirroring what we do here on Earth, I think that’s a great analogy.  For us, it's a really nice demonstration of how any company going public should have a real-time valuation.Share on X It doesn’t have to be publicly available. You can choose. Again, think about how Merrill Lynch—I think it was Merrill Lynch and Bank of America—helped with the roadshow and all the due diligence and documents. I can’t even understand how they modeled the valuation one time. They probably had to do that every three days.  But if they had a real-time valuation, they could clearly understand what was happening in the market. So, going back to your original question about what excites me, this is exciting because we built the largest valuation model on the market. Currently, without SpaceX—because SpaceX would take up half of the benchmark—we constantly value over $4 trillion in assets.  Okay. So let’s talk about this because, in my time at my investment banking firm, we had a valuation practice, and we offered six different types of valuations. But really, we just wanted to have an enchilada process where we would have EVA valuations, multiples, private and public comparables, DCF, and all that stuff. But I’m really wondering because, when you’re valuing small private companies, you’ve got all these liquidity discounts, marketability discounts, ownership discounts, all these discounts.  So it kind of boggles my mind how you guys can value all these startups, which may not even have revenue and may be very early-stage. Because this podcast is about frameworks, I’d like you to share with us—with me and the listeners—a framework that simplifies this whole valuation. What are the major elements? If you had to constrain yourself to five major elements of your valuation, what would they be?  Yeah, I can definitely help with that. Obviously, the first one is the industry, right? The industry. We have our models and datasets that we’ve acquired over the years. We have valued $400 billion in client assets manually. Okay. Manually. Even before AI, we were using AI, right? So we really tested the models. We really worked on what works and what doesn’t. That’s one element. It’s the dataset.  Obviously, public comparables. We have incredible models for choosing and picking the right companies, right? There are 4,000 publicly traded companies on the market. That’s a very important dataset. Then we have data taken directly from clients. That’s also very important. The data actually reflects the reality of the company. Obviously, you can estimate, but all these estimates…  There are platforms out there that give you a range. There’s actually a company now that tried to copy us, but they came up with such an unfortunate solution. They have a range. And Steve, who knows the range? Let’s say you have a $100 million company valuation. They came up with a valuation range of $30 million to $100 million. Two hundred?  Okay, great.  Thirty to one hundred. Thirty to one hundred. Okay. I’m like, “That’s not even a range.” It’s ridiculous. So, again, you can try to copy it, but it’s not going to work. You have to have analysts. We have an in-house team of close to 20 valuation analysts with double master’s degrees, CBAs, CFA Level III, and NACVA certifications.  So we can also issue certified reports. We can support all the defensibility. So, in case any company is undergoing M&A, we can help with additional questions from the Big Four, McKinsey, or PricewaterhouseCoopers when they challenge the valuation. We can defend the stock price. It doesn’t really happen when we issue the stock, but it happens down the road.  Yeah. That’s fantastic. So let me ask you this. What drives growth at Eqvista?  What drives growth at Eqvista? The product. It’s really as simple as that. The product and our company economics. We don't really waste time and energy on things that don't work. We focus heavily on what really works and only on what works.Share on X We haven’t raised much money, right? We bootstrapped the company. We raised half a million dollars. I always gave up on fundraising because I’m a product founder.  I don’t really do many roadshows or meetings. I actually hate meetings. I stay with my team. I’m product-centric, super focused on the product, and I think that’s one of the reasons we’re successful. I’ve always been fortunate to build amazing products and hire very talented people who can understand what we’ve built and sell it. So it’s the product. I’ve always believed in pull marketing rather than push marketing.  Obviously, outbound outreach is also extremely important. But pull marketing is where you start, especially in the early stage when you want to grow to, let’s say, half a million, one million, or two million dollars in revenue. Because direct sales are extremely hard.  So what’s one thing that you’re actively trying to figure out in your business?  It’s the price. It’s the stock price. How to effectively value companies. That’s what excites me, and that’s what we try to figure out on a practically daily basis. We have a team of specialists focusing on stock pricing and stock price discovery. Adoption is going to be extremely important. How successful we’ll be in distributing the stock price to different segments of the market.  I’m trying to understand this. You already have 25,000-plus companies whose valuations you manage. You’re able to defend these valuations in court or in M&A situations. So what do you mean exactly by trying to figure out how to effectively value companies? I mean, it sounds like you’ve figured it out. So to what degree have you not figured it out?  We have it, right? But for us, it’s about efficiency. Efficiency and how precisely we can price the stock. That’s probably the big question, even for the public market. Some companies are underpriced. How is it possible that a company with a strong balance sheet has a lower value than the cash in its accounts? These are the types of things.  It’s definitely a different approach to value a company with a couple hundred thousand dollars in revenue versus a company with $300 million in revenue and a $22 billion post-money valuation. These are crazy formulas and approaches. We’re still working on the precision because, at that scale, companies are extremely sensitive to any type of deviation. Even one percent can mean hundreds of millions of dollars.  So that’s very important. Actually, it’s also very important for startups to realize that, at the lower level, they might be undervalued by a few hundred thousand dollars or a few million dollars. That’s also something founders, CEOs, and CFOs should really be considering. That’s why real-time valuation is extremely important for all of us. We’re just trying to teach the market about real-time valuation.  Yeah. I can imagine. Even listed companies that have public data can move dramatically based on market sentiment. Something happens in Iran, and the stock can drop ten percent in a day. What could happen in a private company when you don’t have real-time data available?  Yes.  It’s going to be a really thorny issue.  It is.  So if you had a magic wand, Tom, and you could fix one thing in your company in the next twelve months, what would that be?  Adoption. Real-time valuation adoption. How we teach the market about real-time valuation. That would be the thing I would love to fix.Share on X We actually have a few ideas about how to do it. We’re becoming our own client. We’re becoming our own client, so we’re actually launching a controlled tender offer—a secondary marketplace, practically. Down the road, we could apply for an ATS, an Alternative Trading System. But that’s eight, nine, or ten months from now. At least that’s our vision, and that’s where we’d like to be headed.  So you’re going to do something like a relisting or a reverse IPO?  Not really a reverse IPO. No. Just to help shareholders liquidate their stock. It’ll practically be a platform where employees or investors can liquidate their stock. That’s something we’d like to focus on. We issue stock, manage it, reprice it, and we’d also like to help provide liquidity.  Wow. These are very exciting challenges.  Yes.  A lot of people have tried to overcome this, so if you do, you’ll definitely be pioneers in this area. Perhaps AI can help with that.  Perfect. Yeah. I have a list of people I know, how to use them, and when. So you’re always welcome.  All right. If people would like to learn more or contact you, where can they find you? Or where can they find Eqvista? How can they connect with you and learn more?  Yeah. I can definitely help with multiple subjects: company formation, bootstrapping a company, any product-related questions, and, obviously, equity management, stock pricing, valuation discovery, efficiency, and, most importantly, anything about Eqvista. You can find us at eqvista.com. E-Q-V-I-S-T-A dot com. The same goes for email. It’s tom@eqvista.com.  Okay, awesome. You can check Tom out on LinkedIn as well. That’s Tomas Milar. I think you’re listed with your longer first name. He posts regularly—very exciting articles, especially the recent one I saw on SpaceX and how the valuation shot up like a rocket. Definitely check it out.  If you enjoyed this conversation, make sure you subscribe, follow us on YouTube, give us a review on Apple Podcasts, and stay tuned because once or twice a week we bring you exciting entrepreneurs like Tom, who share their frameworks with you. So thanks for coming, Tom, and sharing your insights. And thanks for listening. Important Links: Tom's LinkedIn Tom's  website Tom's Email: tom@eqvista.com

In this episode of Flavors Unknown, Emmanuel Laroche speaks with Chef Maksut Aşkar, the chef behind Neolokal in Istanbul. This is a conversation about much more than one restaurant. It is a journey into Istanbul's food culture, the difference between Anatolian and Ottoman cuisine, the flavors of Antakya, Turkish breakfast, heirloom ingredients, sustainability, pistachios, desserts, mentorship, and the role of design in a dining experience. Chef Maksut explains why “Turkish cuisine” can be an oversimplification, why traditions must evolve to stay alive, and how Neolokal creates a bridge between memory and modern gastronomy. The episode document highlights themes including Istanbul's culinary richness, Anatolian versus Ottoman cuisine, spices, sustainability, storytelling, pistachios, mentorship, Turkish breakfast, desserts, and design. What you’ll learn from Chef Maksut Aşkar Istanbul’s culinary diversity and history Difference between Ottoman and Anatolian cuisine The concept of Neolocale and tradition updating Sustainable sourcing of rare ingredients The role of storytelling in culinary experience The importance of preserving culinary heritage Innovative techniques in traditional recipes The significance of pistachios in Turkish cuisine The open-source approach to culinary knowledge The future of Turkish culinary traditions   Chapters00:00 Introduction and guest introduction01:57 Istanbul as a city of gastronomy04:00 Geography and cultural melting pot of Anatolia06:07 Differences between Ottoman palace cuisine and Anatolian home cooking09:03 Unique ingredients and regional flavors13:02 Must-try foods for first-time visitors to Istanbul15:59 The concept of Neolocale and tradition preservation19:52 Innovating while respecting culinary heritage23:05 Storytelling and educational approach in the restaurant31:00 The importance of ingredients like pistachios and mulberry molasses32:56 Sharing recipes and open source philosophy36:01 Training young chefs and culinary mentorship37:00 Rapid fire questions and personal preferences49:58 Closing remarks and future outlook Beyond the Mic: My Stories in Print A Taste of Madagascar: Culinary Riches of the Red Island invites readers to join me on his unforgettable journey across the island of Madagascar, where a vibrant culture and stunning ecosystem intertwine to create an extraordinary culinary experience. Explore the unique ingredients and traditions that define Madagascar and discover their profound impact on the global culinary landscape. Alongside the captivating stories, the book presents a collection of exciting recipes that showcase the incredible flavors and ingredients of Madagascar. Get the book here! “Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door” is my debut book, published in Fall 2022. It features insights from chefs and culinary leaders interviewed on the Flavors Unknown podcast, offering a behind-the-scenes look at creativity, culture, and the future of the hospitality industry. Get the book here! Links to most downloaded episodes (click on any picture to listen to the episode) Chef Sheldon Simeon Chef Andy Doubrava Chef Nina Compton Chef Jacques Pepin Social media Chef Maksut Aşkar Instagram Social media Neolokal Instagram Links mentioned in this episode Neolokal in Istanbul SUBSCRIBE TO THE ‘FLAVORS UNKNOWN' NEWSLETTER

From Suzy Hansen, whose previous book, Notes on a Foreign Country, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, From Life Itself: Turkey, Istanbul, and a Neighborhood in the Age of Erdoğan (Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2026) is a story for a world out of joint. An absorbing account of one neighborhood in Istanbul that has seen profound change, it offers lessons for all of us who feel the pressure of the disorienting global forces remaking our lives. Karagümrük, a neighborhood once dominated by Ottoman-era homes, is now known for petty thieves, cheap apartment blocks, and an influx of Syrian refugees. It's here that Hansen went looking for the truth behind the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's authoritarian turn, a catastrophic regional war, and an accelerating geopolitical crisis. She asks: Was Turkey a harbinger of what would soon arise in other countries, the resurgence of authoritarianism? Or do the lives in this neighborhood, and the transformations of Erdoğan's Turkey, reveal a more complex story? During a decade spent reporting from Karagümrük, Hansen discovered the neighborhood's secrets and got to know some of its people: Ismail, the longtime muhtar, or neighborhood councilman; Huseyin, a loyalist in Erdoğan's Islamic nationalist AK Party; and Ebru, a real estate agent and mother with ambitions to unseat Ismail. Through these local perspectives, Hansen connects the events unfolding in Karagümrük to the forces roiling Turkey, the Middle East, and the world, capturing the sweep of the last ten years in microcosm.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

From Suzy Hansen, whose previous book, Notes on a Foreign Country, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, From Life Itself: Turkey, Istanbul, and a Neighborhood in the Age of Erdoğan (Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2026) is a story for a world out of joint. An absorbing account of one neighborhood in Istanbul that has seen profound change, it offers lessons for all of us who feel the pressure of the disorienting global forces remaking our lives. Karagümrük, a neighborhood once dominated by Ottoman-era homes, is now known for petty thieves, cheap apartment blocks, and an influx of Syrian refugees. It's here that Hansen went looking for the truth behind the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's authoritarian turn, a catastrophic regional war, and an accelerating geopolitical crisis. She asks: Was Turkey a harbinger of what would soon arise in other countries, the resurgence of authoritarianism? Or do the lives in this neighborhood, and the transformations of Erdoğan's Turkey, reveal a more complex story? During a decade spent reporting from Karagümrük, Hansen discovered the neighborhood's secrets and got to know some of its people: Ismail, the longtime muhtar, or neighborhood councilman; Huseyin, a loyalist in Erdoğan's Islamic nationalist AK Party; and Ebru, a real estate agent and mother with ambitions to unseat Ismail. Through these local perspectives, Hansen connects the events unfolding in Karagümrük to the forces roiling Turkey, the Middle East, and the world, capturing the sweep of the last ten years in microcosm.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/middle-eastern-studies

Party statement | 2 July 2026 The Turkish regime is attempting to stamp out all forms of local and international antiwar activity ahead of the upcoming Nato summit in Ankara. The CPGB-ML joins all progressive and anti-imperialist workers in condemning the brutal kidnapping of young comrades who were attending a youth camp organised by the World Anti-imperialist Platform in Istanbul. This action comes as imperialist leaders prepare to converge for the annual Nato conference in Ankara next week (7-8 July). ------------------------------------- Subscribe! Donate! Join us in building a bright future for humanity! www.thecommunists.org www.lalkar.org www.redyouth.org Telegram: t.me/thecommunists Twitter: twitter.com/cpgbml Soundcloud: @proletarianradio Rumble: rumble.com/c/theCommunists Odysee: odysee.com/@proletariantv:2 Facebook: www.facebook.com/cpgbml Online Shop: https://shop.thecommunists.org/ Education Program: https://thecommunists.org/education-programme/ Each one teach one! www.londonworker.org/education-programme/ Join the struggle www.thecommunists.org/join/ Donate: www.thecommunists.org/donate/

From Suzy Hansen, whose previous book, Notes on a Foreign Country, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, From Life Itself: Turkey, Istanbul, and a Neighborhood in the Age of Erdoğan (Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2026) is a story for a world out of joint. An absorbing account of one neighborhood in Istanbul that has seen profound change, it offers lessons for all of us who feel the pressure of the disorienting global forces remaking our lives. Karagümrük, a neighborhood once dominated by Ottoman-era homes, is now known for petty thieves, cheap apartment blocks, and an influx of Syrian refugees. It's here that Hansen went looking for the truth behind the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's authoritarian turn, a catastrophic regional war, and an accelerating geopolitical crisis. She asks: Was Turkey a harbinger of what would soon arise in other countries, the resurgence of authoritarianism? Or do the lives in this neighborhood, and the transformations of Erdoğan's Turkey, reveal a more complex story? During a decade spent reporting from Karagümrük, Hansen discovered the neighborhood's secrets and got to know some of its people: Ismail, the longtime muhtar, or neighborhood councilman; Huseyin, a loyalist in Erdoğan's Islamic nationalist AK Party; and Ebru, a real estate agent and mother with ambitions to unseat Ismail. Through these local perspectives, Hansen connects the events unfolding in Karagümrük to the forces roiling Turkey, the Middle East, and the world, capturing the sweep of the last ten years in microcosm.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

What happens when a handbag is designed as a work of art instead of just an accessory? In this episode, Elif Akaydin, founder of Patent of Heart, shares how her journey from Istanbul to New York shaped a brand rooted in craftsmanship, storytelling, and purpose. She explains how hand embroidery, chain stitch techniques, and upcycled leather create bags that feel personal, while balancing one-of-a-kind artistry with the realities of production, pricing, and growth. Alifa also shares why pop-ups and boutiques have been key to building her business, and how producing in Istanbul supports women artisans while giving back to women's education.Key Takeaways:Art creates connection — Handcrafted details transform handbags into meaningful, collectible pieces.Creativity needs structure — Production, pricing, and scalable design are just as important as inspiration.Purpose builds loyalty — Ethical manufacturing and giving back can strengthen a brand when they're woven into the business.

From Suzy Hansen, whose previous book, Notes on a Foreign Country, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, From Life Itself: Turkey, Istanbul, and a Neighborhood in the Age of Erdoğan (Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2026) is a story for a world out of joint. An absorbing account of one neighborhood in Istanbul that has seen profound change, it offers lessons for all of us who feel the pressure of the disorienting global forces remaking our lives. Karagümrük, a neighborhood once dominated by Ottoman-era homes, is now known for petty thieves, cheap apartment blocks, and an influx of Syrian refugees. It's here that Hansen went looking for the truth behind the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's authoritarian turn, a catastrophic regional war, and an accelerating geopolitical crisis. She asks: Was Turkey a harbinger of what would soon arise in other countries, the resurgence of authoritarianism? Or do the lives in this neighborhood, and the transformations of Erdoğan's Turkey, reveal a more complex story? During a decade spent reporting from Karagümrük, Hansen discovered the neighborhood's secrets and got to know some of its people: Ismail, the longtime muhtar, or neighborhood councilman; Huseyin, a loyalist in Erdoğan's Islamic nationalist AK Party; and Ebru, a real estate agent and mother with ambitions to unseat Ismail. Through these local perspectives, Hansen connects the events unfolding in Karagümrük to the forces roiling Turkey, the Middle East, and the world, capturing the sweep of the last ten years in microcosm.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/eastern-european-studies

From Suzy Hansen, whose previous book, Notes on a Foreign Country, was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, From Life Itself: Turkey, Istanbul, and a Neighborhood in the Age of Erdoğan (Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2026) is a story for a world out of joint. An absorbing account of one neighborhood in Istanbul that has seen profound change, it offers lessons for all of us who feel the pressure of the disorienting global forces remaking our lives. Karagümrük, a neighborhood once dominated by Ottoman-era homes, is now known for petty thieves, cheap apartment blocks, and an influx of Syrian refugees. It's here that Hansen went looking for the truth behind the Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's authoritarian turn, a catastrophic regional war, and an accelerating geopolitical crisis. She asks: Was Turkey a harbinger of what would soon arise in other countries, the resurgence of authoritarianism? Or do the lives in this neighborhood, and the transformations of Erdoğan's Turkey, reveal a more complex story? During a decade spent reporting from Karagümrük, Hansen discovered the neighborhood's secrets and got to know some of its people: Ismail, the longtime muhtar, or neighborhood councilman; Huseyin, a loyalist in Erdoğan's Islamic nationalist AK Party; and Ebru, a real estate agent and mother with ambitions to unseat Ismail. Through these local perspectives, Hansen connects the events unfolding in Karagümrük to the forces roiling Turkey, the Middle East, and the world, capturing the sweep of the last ten years in microcosm.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The pervasive exhaustion resulting from witnessing modern global atrocities often creates a paralyzing "hopeRot," yet the cultivation of an radical "HopeCore" remains an essential engine for systemic transformation. Writer and curator, Shumon Basar, analyzes the rewiring of the global psyche through the rise of Gulf Futurism and the eventual arrival of a post-Western reality. His critique centers on the provincialization of the West, a phenomenon where a minority population disproportionately dictates universal narratives and conceptual models. The discussion further traverses the evolution of Dubai from a startup city to a global urban paradigm, alongside a sobering exploration of the war on amnesia", as Basar describes it, through alternative institutions and magical historical thinking. Ultimately, the conversation confronts the unmasking of power and the abandonment of institutional shame, reinforcing the vital necessity of counter-histories in an increasingly ahistorical digital age.   00:00 Introduction 04:36 The Rewiring of the Global Psyche 07:30 Spectral Enemies and the Geography of Time 10:08 Provincializing the West and Cognitive Mapping 16:13 The Foundational Myths of Unification 27:31 The Paradox of HopeRot and HopeCore 34:39 Absolute Impunity and the Narrative Battle 44:02 The Reckoning of Liberal Fascism 53:48 Alternative Institutions and the War on Amnesia 01:00:10 Magical Historical Thinking in the Extreme Present   Shumon Basar is a British-Bangladeshi writer, editor, and curator born in 1974. He attended Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge University (1993–1996) and studied at the AA School, London (1998–2000). In 2005 he joined Goldsmiths, University of London's doctoral program in Visual Cultures. He is co-author with Douglas Coupland and Hans Ulrich Obrist of The Age of Earthquakes: A Guide to the Extreme Present (Penguin, 2015) and The Extreme Self: Age of You (Walther & Franz König, 2021), and co-curated the large-scale exhibition Age of You at MOCA Toronto and Jameel Arts Centre, Dubai. Since 2010, Basar has been Commissioner of the Global Art Forum, Art Dubai's annual transdisciplinary summit. He became a founding member of Fondazione Prada's Thought Council in 2015. He is Adjunct Curator at Art Jameel and holds editorial and advisory positions at Tank, Bidoun, 032c, and Flash Art. He has lived in Dubai, Vancouver, Berlin, Beirut, and Istanbul.   Connect with Shumon Basar

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has transformed Turkey from a fragile democracy into an increasingly authoritarian state. His grip on power may be stronger than ever.The discussion explores Erdoğan's political legacy, the collapse of Turkey's democratic opposition, the imprisonment of Istanbul's mayor, and how conflicts in Syria, Ukraine, and the wider Middle East have reshaped Turkey's geopolitical influence. Rob also argues that America's foreign policy has unintentionally strengthened Erdoğan's position, while examining the growing relationship between Donald Trump and Turkey.Is Turkey now beyond the point of democratic recovery? What happens when Erdoğan eventually leaves power? And what lessons should Europe and the United States take from Turkey's political trajectory?Join Rob Morris and Ruairi for an in-depth discussion on one of the world's most important—and often misunderstood, countries.Topics covered:Erdoğan's consolidation of power, Turkish politics and democracy, Turkey and NATO, Syria and the Middle East, The Russia–Ukraine war, Donald Trump and Turkey, Turkish economy and inflation, The future of Turkish democracy, Geopolitics and international relations#Turkey #Erdogan #Geopolitics #MiddleEast #NATO #Politics #Democracy #InternationalRelations #Trump #Syria #Ukraine #Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Books⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok

American actress and Gossip Girl star Kelly Rutherford joins Tanya Rose to reveal the travel experiences that have shaped her life.   From growing up in California to building a life between New York and Monaco, Kelly reflects on family heritage, the cities she called home and the destinations she returns to time and time again. Together, they discuss everything from her favourite cafés and travelling with children to life in Monaco and the Italian road trip she hopes to repeat with her daughter. In this episode, she talks about: Discovering her English and Danish roots Losing her passport in France Kelly's favourite city in the world Raising children in New York vs Los Angeles Her favourite cafés in Paris, London and New York What it's like to live in Monaco The simple suitcase rule she always follows The best way she has found to get her children to go to museums with her Her favourite magazine for travel recommendations The unforgettable Italian road trip she took with her daughter

In this episode, we unpack the summer transfer market's loudest blockbuster: Fenerbahçe's staggering €39 million swoop for Mason Greenwood. After restarting his career with a highly productive two-year stint at Olympique de Marseille, the 24-year-old English forward lands in Istanbul with massive expectations on his shoulders. We break down the tactical fit for the yellow-and-navy, the dramatic twist that saw Atlético Madrid abandon the chase, and whether Greenwood is the missing piece required to shatter Galatasaray's historic four-year dominance in the Süper Lig. `Mason Greenwood` `Fenerbahce Transfer` `Marseille Record Sale` `Super Lig 2026` `Istanbul Derby` `Football Transfer News` `Champions League Qualifying`

Join host Sue Rose Minahan as she welcomes Rick Levine—internationally renowned astrologer and Seattle local—to speculate on the profound “4° Barbault Basket Burst” occurring on July 19th.The celestial sky is presenting a powerful alignment. The first major shift arrives on July 19, 2026, anchoring at 4° and involving five distinct planets: the Moon, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto.This interlocked pattern forms a grand trine and mystic triangle, creating a supportive "cradle" of trines and sextiles that will hold a tight, potent orb at 4° for three consecutive days.The Core Dynamics of the Alignment-The Outer Planet Foundation: The mystique of this pattern pivots on the outer planets, which are currently engaging in an extended mini grand trine spanning 2024–2029 (concentrating at its tightest from 2025–2027).-The Jupiter Amplifier: Jupiter in Leo adds a massive dynamic energy to the mix, hinging a "BIG" tag onto this aspect and promoting a lasting legacy that pushes humanity forward.-The Lunar Trigger: While the outer planets move slowly, the Moon transiting Libra acts as the crucial fifth point. The Moon unites these five archetypes of transformation, serving as the immediate catalyst that begins a collective bursting through old paradigms.With Uranus and Pluto intensely breaking old patterns, this extraordinary planetary cradle acts as a true launching pad for elevated cultural consciousness.RICK LEVINE: is a world-renowned astrologer, scholar and author. He continues to be a widely respected voice in the global astrology community, giving professional talks and seminars around the world. Astrology Hub Foundations: Midpoints Aug 20 (18-22) 2026 Lily Dale; 2026 UAC; 2027 TBA 6-day workshop Buellton, California.https://www.RickLevineAstrologer.com/https://www.patreon.com/ricklevine https://www.youtube.com/@RickLevineTHE EDUCATORHe has a special gift for bridging the gaps between astrology and spirituality, science and religion, the head and the heart. For over twenty years, millions of readers from around the world became acquainted with the relevance of astrology through Rick's authentic daily horoscopes that appeared on Yahoo, AOL, Huffington Post, LA Times, Tarot.com, and many other sites. Tens of thousands of serious astrology students view Rick's teachings on YouTube every month. Classes with Astrology Hub, Kepler Astrology College, Heaven & Earth.COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS-Founding trustee of Kepler College-Co-founder (with Jeff Jawer) of StarIQ.com-Co-author of eight editions of Barnes and Noble's annual Your Astrology Guide. -Subject of Sacred Mystery's DVD, Quantum Astrology: Science, Spirit, and Our Place in the Cycles of History. COMMUNITY AWARDS-The International Astrologer of the Year at the Krishnamurti Institute of Astrology's 28th International Astrology Conference in Kolkata, India.-The Fomalhaut Award for Astrological Excellence in Istanbul, Turkey.-Favorite Social Media Content Creator and Favorite Astrology YouTube Channel by ISAR (The International Society for Astrological Research). THE PERSONRick Levine's articles and poems have graced the pages of many magazines and websites, including The Mountain Astrologer. He is a true modern-day wizard, a net-junkie, a lover of fine red wine and is rumored to have been initiated into his astrological studies by Pythagoras, himself. Email: rlevine@stariq.comSUE ‘Rose' MINAHAN: Evolutionary Astrologer, Consultant, Writer, Speaker, Mythology enthusiast. Dwarf Planet University graduate; Vibrational Astrology Student under Linda Berry, Kepler Astrology Toastmaster Club (KAT). Wine Country Speakers. Associate of Fine Arts Music Degree, & a Certificate of Fine Arts in Jazz. Artist, musician. Founder of Talk Cosmos weekly conversations awakening heart and soul consciousness since 2018.#4°BarbaultBasket #AndreBarbault #RickLevine #astrology2026 #UranustrinePluto #JupiterinLeo #Moon #TalkCosmos #SueRoseMinahanSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hey, Family Brand community! We are so glad to be back in the studio. It probably doesn't feel like we've been gone since we recorded a few episodes ahead of time, but after spending the last few weeks traveling through Croatia and Turkey, we're excited to sit down and share some of the biggest lessons we brought home with us. Every trip has a way of changing us, and this one was no exception. Our first stop was Croatia, where we hosted another Family Brand cruise with our good friend Antony and the Solomori team. If Croatia has been sitting on your travel bucket list, consider this your sign to move it to the top. It's absolutely beautiful, but what impacted us most wasn't just the scenery—it was the culture. Everywhere we went, we saw families making time for one another, preserving traditions, sharing stories, and simply slowing down. Meals weren't rushed. Conversations stretched for hours. We even learned a Croatian word that quickly became the theme of our trip: pomalo—which simply means take it easy, slow down, don't rush. It became a reminder that maybe we're not meant to race through life quite as fast as we often do. Then we landed in Turkey, and talk about a complete shift. Everything felt unfamiliar—in the best possible way. From hearing the call to prayer echo across Istanbul to visiting beautiful mosques, trying a traditional Turkish bath, navigating a language barrier, and experiencing a culture completely different from our own, we found ourselves having conversations as a family that we never would have had otherwise. It challenged some assumptions, expanded our understanding of another faith and culture, and reminded us how valuable it is to step outside what's comfortable. We left with an even greater appreciation for the kindness we experienced everywhere we went and for how much there is to learn simply by being curious. By the time we made it home, each of us had something different we were bringing back. For some of us, it was a renewed commitment to slow down and prioritize family. For others, it was a deeper appreciation for home, or even a desire to start reading physical books again instead of always listening to audiobooks. More than anything, this trip reminded us that growth doesn't just happen through travel—it happens anytime we're willing to be open to new people, different perspectives, and meaningful conversations. Whether your next adventure is across the world or simply across town, we hope it stretches you in all the best ways. Hit play to hear the full conversation! We dive much deeper into the stories, the laughs, the culture, and the lessons that simply can't all fit into a blog post. P.S. We're here to help you build your own Family Brand, one episode at a time. So go ahead, hit play, and let's grow together! Or, if you're ready to dive even deeper into our community, follow the links below. LINKS: All Links Family Brand! stan.store/familybrand familybrand.com/quiz familybrand.com/retreats.  Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Back in the Studio After Three Weeks Away 00:41 Our Family Trip Through Croatia and Turkey 01:03 The Family Brand Cruise Through Croatia 02:18 Why Croatia Should Move Up Your Travel List 03:05 From Croatia's Coast to Istanbul, Turkey 04:13 A Croatian Village Where Everyone Knows Your Family 06:06 Preserving Family Stories and Traditions 07:15 What Strong Families and Croatian Culture Have in Common 09:28 Pomalo: Slow Down, Relax, and Don't Rush 10:33 Experiencing Istanbul and Turkish Culture 11:26 What Turkey Taught Us About Faith and Perspective 12:30 Stepping Outside Our Comfort Zone as a Family 13:12 Helping Our Kids Experience a Different Way of Life 15:00 What Each of Us Brought Home From the Trip 15:27 Travel, Curiosity, and Learning From Other People 16:21 Slowing Down and Prioritizing Family 17:05 Rediscovering the Joy of Reading 18:13 Here's to the Rest of Summer  

What does it really mean to build bridges that last for decades? I want you to meet Bircan Unver, whose lifelong commitment to responsibility, creativity, and global citizenship has shaped more than 25 years of meaningful work through Light Millennium. From growing up as the eldest of seven children in Turkey to creating an internationally recognized nonprofit connected with the United Nations, Bircan shares how art, public media, and open dialogue can bring people together across cultures. We explore why responsibility begins with each of us, how local communities can help solve global challenges, and why issues like water security, environmental stewardship, and human connection matter more than ever. I believe you'll enjoy hearing how one person's unstoppable mindset continues to inspire collaboration, education, and hope for a better future. Highlights: 06:55 - How growing up with responsibility shaped Bircan's lifelong commitment to serving others. 18:30 - Why public access television became the foundation for sharing voices and building community. 26:15 - The story behind founding Light Millennium and creating a nonprofit built on dialogue and education. 36:55 - How local communities can play a meaningful role in advancing United Nations goals. 49:45 - Why water security, cybersecurity, and gender equality are becoming deeply connected. 55:40 - Bircan reflects on preserving ideas through books, creativity, and lifelong learning. About the Guest: Bircan Ünver is the Founder-President of The Light Millennium, a Charitable Global Human Advancement Organization (LMGlobal.Org, 2001, New York); Executive Producer of the LMTV Programs; Multi-Media and Event Producer; Host, Author, Publisher, Public Speaker; [Head] NGO Representative of The Light Millennium to the United Nations Department of Global Communications since 2005 (formerly, UN.DPI); and Chair, Outreach and Partnerships Subcommittee at Global NGO Executive Committee and director for the 2021-2023 term. She has been also a Content Provider at QPTV since 1992, and she is the editor and co-founder of the U.S. Turkish Library & Museum Project. She has undertaken the Organization's e-publications, public programs since its inception in August 1999, and #LightMillenniumTV Series and Specials in all aspects of it since January 2000; along with, the LMGlobal.Org's all UN-related activity and programs since 2005. Bircan is the author and director of the Compulsory Peace & ICTs Education from Kindergarten to K-12, and Beyond Campaign, which she launched it through the Light Millennium Global in support of the Summit of the Future in 2024. The Campaign has delivered its 8th session along with the Coalition for the Campaign, which contains 22 organizations and educational institutions including The Light Millennium Global as the leading organization. Further,  she is also author of the bi-annual international high school project, “J.U.C. Media, Research, Writing & Innovation Awards”. The third of its kind was dedicated to the “Water Action Decade” and was delivered  (virtually) on the World Water Day, March 22, 2025. Bircan served as a mentor to the GPODS for three consecutive terms in Winter'22, Summer'22, and Fall'22 Fellowship Programs; and delivered lectures on “How to associate with the UN-NGO”, Public Access TVs in the U.S., and the latest one was on the #WaterActionDecade and the #2023UNWater Conference. To attach that, on behalf of LMGlobal.Org, she organized and hosted an Outside-UN Side Event ID #W175, titled, “What Is Your Commitment To The #WaterActionDecade? ~ Seven Core Ideas Toward #WaterAwareness, #WaterConscience and #GameChangers” in NYC on March 21, 2023, and was the head delegate of the LMGlobal.Org at the #UN2023WaterConference. Based on LMGlobal.Org's Commitments to the #WaterActionDecade, she launched #OneMinuteWaterActionCommitment during the #W175 Side Event, along with continues to work toward #WaterAwareness toward building up #WaterConscience.  She served as the chair of the ATAA Committee on UN Relations, guided its association to the UNDGC in 2020, and also served as the New York Regional Vice-President of ATAA (Assembly of Turkish American Associations) from October 2019 to January 2022. Furthermore, she served on several Planning Committees of the UN-Civil Society Conferences, and the Planning Committee of the High-Level Forum on the Culture of Peace (HLF-CoP). She has been a strong advocate of the UN Vision, Programs & Sustainable Development Goals (2015-2030) along with the relevant UN Days, which are in line with the LMGlobal.Org's Mission/Purposes since its association with the UNDGC (formerly, UN.DPI/NGO) in December 2005. Currently, Bircan is on the Advisory Board of the Turkish Forum (based in Germany). She encourages and guides interested civil society organizations and members of academia toward their educational institutions' associations with the UN, along with engaging them with the UN Programs that are within her networks and beyond. Further, she is an Ambassador of Peace and Goodwill for Anuvrat (Anuvibha) Global Organization (Jaipur, India, since 2014); and a Member of the Global Movement for the Culture of Peace (GMCoP, since 2012). Bircan is also the founder and president of the IsikBinyili.Org Association based in Istanbul (2010), which is a sister organization and counterpart of the LMGlobal.Org. Author of the following four book titles in print (Turkish): “En Kutsalı Yaratmak” (The Most Sacred is to Create) (1995, 2022), “Sanatın Labirentlerinde” (The Labyrinths of Arts) (2016), and “Işık Yollarında (“The Ways of the Light”) (poetry, 2017), and “Bin Yıl Daha…” (2020, A Thousand Years More…). Also, she is the author of the concept and compilation of the “Hope Never Fades” (English) book (Istanbul, 2023). Bircan initially received her local and studio television production certificates at QPTV.Org in 1992. Based on this capacity, she produced and broadcasted near to 260 television programs through local channels in New York City, which are also available online through www.vimeo.com/channels/LightMillenniumTV including 36 #OneMinute #WaterAction PSAs. Bircan celebrated her 30th Anniversary at QPTV.Org through a video profile, titled, “A Turkish Experience in America” (Duration: ~9 min. Production Year: 2022). Her works through The Light Millennium Global is a recipient of various national (U.S.) and international awards and recognitions including two awards from the Foundation of Alliance Community 2023 Hometown Media Awards (F-ACM-HMA for her “GroundWater” Light Millennium TV program in Web-based Programming and Online Events / Independent Producer categories (received at Brick TV, New York), the Anuvrat Ahimsa Award For International Peace-2023 (received in Mumbai, India), and the 2023 International Volunteer President Award by Institution of Green Engineers (received in Chennai, India), and ashe is also the recipient of the 2024 Best Web-Based Program – Independent Producer for the #HopeNeverFades program by F-ACM-HMA, which was produced based on the 2023 J.U.C. Media, Research & Writing Awards (ACM HomeTown Media Awards, San Jose, CA). Bircan holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree from the Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University (Istanbul, 1988) and a Master's Degree (M.A.) from Media Studies of the New School University (New York City 1999). Ways to connect with Bircan**:** Websites: www.lmglobal.org  (active web site) | www.lightmillennium.org (serves as the organization's web archive)#LightMillenniumTV | www.vimeo.com/LMTV | www.vimeo.com/channels/LightMillenniumTV Social Media: Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/bircan-ünver-7353207 X@lightmillennium Instagram@lightmillennium 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 subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . 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 have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson  00:04 What if the biggest thing holding you back isn't what's in front of you, but rather what you believe? Welcome to Unstoppable Mindset, where inclusion, diversity, and the unexpected meet. I'm your host, Michael Hingston, speaker, author, and advocate for inclusion and possibilities. This podcast explores how the beliefs we carry shape the way we live, lead, and connect with others. Each week, I talk with people who challenge assumptions, face adversity head-on, and show what's possible when we choose curiosity over fear. Together, we focus on mindset, resilience, and the small shifts that lead to meaningful change. Let's get started. Well, hello everyone, and I want to welcome you to another edition of Unstoppable Mindset, and today we get to talk to a very interesting person with a with a lot of roots in Turkey, but she is also doing a lot of work with the United Nations here in the U.S. and other places. Her name is Birchan Umfer, and I hope I got that right. And Bircan Unver  01:23 thank you. Michael Hingson  01:24 Oh, good. And Berjan is is with us, and is going to talk about a number of things that she is working on. She's working on, and for years has been involved with a program called Light Millennium, and we'll we'll talk about all that, but let's just start and and as usual we'll have a great conversation. So, Bir John, I want to welcome you to Unstoppable Mindset. We're glad you're here. Bircan Unver  01:50 Thank you so much, Michael Hingston. It's great honor and privilege to have your guests. Especially, I love the title Unstoppable Minds. It's really inspiring and triggering the mind. Thank you. Michael Hingson  02:08 Well, my pleasure. We're glad that you have the time to to spend with us, and we will we will we will do it and make it work. Well, let's start. I love to start this way because I really want people to learn about you. Tell us kind of about the early Birchan growing up, and then we'll go from there. So tell us about Birchan and growing up, and and and all of that. Bircan Unver  02:32 Thank you. This will be a little bit different than most people know about me, my work. Well, we'll get to Michael Hingson  02:38 your work. Bircan Unver  02:40 Yeah, I know. I mean, the people who already know my work. What I'm gonna say now is completely too different from Berja. So I am a elder of seven siblings, and I was born in an ancient village in Mid Anatolia, actually nearby the Black Sea region, and I'm proud with my age, 1959, and my family moved to town first from the village, and then Istanbul for our educations for their kids, and but I don't know really as a girl child growing up with seven kids, as especially with a traditional family, being older girl is not a good idea. But but maybe it was a kind of tough childhood as a girl child. I I don't feel that I never been a child. That's really what I feel. But on the other hand, and that was you know when you are growing up, living through like I was a kind of second mom, and also our home was kind of everyone our guest from the village town and stay over not only one night, like or a week, like sometimes months, even years. You won't believe that, and it was not because either. So, but those kind of build up maybe my feeling to be responsible, so I consider myself a responsible person because I was responsible for my sisters, brothers, and also washing dishes, making helping my mom to prepare the meal, lunch, breakfast, and clean up. Like you know, I was kind of second person, second mom at home. So those early things, all those stolen my childhood, but at the same time, provide me being able to do everything from very early age. Even though I remember several times at the time. The bread wasn't, you know, you you weren't buying the bread from the market, but from the bakery, real where they were baking the bread. So she was, and time to time also she was making the the bread at home, and then she she wasn't sending me to school because then I had to stay with my brothers and kids so she can make the you know breads a big amount for a couple days. So that said, also gave my idea. I want to suddenly want to work as soon as you know I'm 17, 1617, So and then I started early working at a bank, and it was my first eight years. I worked at a bank in Istanbul. It is called Istanbul Bank, and then my graphic is like life graphic is a little bit different, like curvy, not like straight line. Then after eight years working at a bank, I started to university and fine arts, and then I had kind of interest art history, especially TV production, art history, arts in in the concept is producing art documentaries. That was kind of my vision. Also, it was also my reason initially coming to the U.S. learning TV production. Of course, English as first. So that was very much my childhood until you know 18 until starting at the bank, and then the rest is another story. I have, I must say, I would have three different life. Michael Hingson  06:48 Well, you had certainly an interesting childhood, needless to say, and I, I can understand what you're saying about being the oldest and all the challenges. I was not. I was the youngest, but we only had two siblings, and neither of us we were we were both males, and so we we did not do a lot in terms of preparing meals and all that sort of stuff. Except my brother and I were both in the Boy Scouts, and so when we went camping and other things like that, we learned how to cook on an open or an open fire and and things like that. But still, I understand that you you had a a lot that you had to do. What lessons did you learn by being the oldest child? What kinds of things do you think that you you carry over to what to your life today, because you were the oldest. Bircan Unver  07:44 I think two different components of that. One is also because it wasn't only I was the as a kid at the home and as a girl, girl, but also at the time there wasn't that kind of awareness which we have today. Which I mean, my mom got married with my dad at the age of 15, and she had birth. She had given me birth at the age of 16, the reason I'm bringing up this, when we were going to shopping Kapolechar, Grand Market of Istanbul, when I was 1516, and literally we were halfway age difference between my mom and myself. And when I was saying mom, and the people were surprised, and she and isn't your sister, other sister? They were asking me, and she was my mom. So, but this is in the long later years. I always become the best friend with my mom, and even my brother was saying, "Oh, now I understood that she, you are the joy of my mom because she can kind of a joke, and the others, my kids, like they are kids, but I'm her friend because they kind of feel similar. That is one, you know, lifetime developed feeling and strong connection, different connection with my mom, and the other also, as I mentioned at the beginning, it really this whole, you know, not selected, but where you, which house you born, which condition you grow up, that build up for me early high level responsibility. I feel responsible to do everything, and I, you know, that's a little bit tiring because that's what I want to say here. You say something in our after our initial Zoom meeting. It's really very inspiring. You say something. I just took note. We can solve all the worst problem. We can. You say you don't say we cannot. You say we can. Solve all the world's problems. So, like, it wasn't possible. It's not possible, but you know, as if I could solve the problems or I could carry everything. So it's kind of you know build up my bricks in my life. Michael Hingson  10:18 One of the things that you certainly, it sounds like you learned as you were growing up, though, was was all about responsibility and and and learning to take charge, but learning about responsibility and and feeling that it was okay to be responsible for others in your family and so on. And I think a lot of people don't necessarily learn a lot of lessons about responsibility, like they should. But you were put in a position where you had to do that, which is is certainly a good thing because you clearly have have done that in your life. Bircan Unver  10:54 That's very true, and also it goes with everything. Let's say sometimes some people think maybe unnecessary action when people cut trees, even in their you know backyard or front yard, whatever trees or any type of trees or fruit trees. I really get mad and upset because it is irresponsible to nature, to their own environment, just feeling they're responsible to trees, loving the trees, loving the you know, for instance, if when I was it was two weeks ago, I was working on at my desk, a bees was you know flying around me, and I don't like you know trying to hit and chase the bees, and I just left the window open, moved the room two hours, and it's gone. So I don't want to hurt things, even though if it bites, it would hurt me, right? So to kind of find a way, being responsible, because also I have a subconscious thinking that if I try to chase a herd, if an insect, any of them, they you know they react sharp. So I'm not a threat to them. So they are not threat to me. So I kind of make a subconscious connection, communication. Michael Hingson  12:22 Well, and it's it's better to to learn to love than than not. So I I hear what you're saying. Now you didn't go to college or university, right? Or you did? Bircan Unver  12:35 Of course, I did. That's what I was just briefly brought this stair at that level. That after eight years working at at Istanbul Bank, from literally actually 17 to 24 or 23 late 23 early 24 then I started at the Fine Arts University in Istanbul, and I mainly study both as major Turkish tradition arts and also along with as a minor. We didn't have a minor, but we had we didn't have the minor degree, but we had a selected course. So I was following up several like four years in a row and also whole year around, not a quarter semester base artist troy and contemporary art. So I started writing on art and exhibit and interviewing artists while I started study at the Fine Arts University, which is top university in Fine Arts in Istanbul, Myanmar, Sinan Fine Arts University. Michael Hingson  13:44 So you learned a lot about fine arts, and Bircan Unver  13:47 yeah, Michael Hingson  13:47 and you had obviously learned about finance from the bank, which Bircan Unver  13:51 is didn't learn that Michael Hingson  13:53 much, huh? Bircan Unver  13:53 Not at all, and I didn't like it. That's why I, you know, I changed all my life line. Michael Hingson  14:00 Right, but but you enjoyed art. Bircan Unver  14:03 Yes, and because also art always for me, and it as it is today. Whatever the life problems we cannot be resolved, art is always for me a branch to hold on and to kind of feel strength, connect with the nature, with the art culture, whom I never might met, or maybe you know through art, through music, through books. So it's kind of really, I think the the best human conscious and what we leave behind is what we produce. Creative might be a little bit another discussion. What is the term defined? And now everyone using like creative for everything, but creativity is like really what stays, you know, central. And something as what is already before, and what you brought it something new, that new perspective, like cubism and faism and expressionism and all that different genres or pop arts and another one Dali's movement. So all the Dadaism, so each of them brought something what is already existed, and then you know moved to different level, and also technology and communication brought where we are today. So and music, I'm not any degree. Degree train or understand, but I love music as most people about music and arts and literature and writing is always for me. Also taking pictures. I don't trust my memory much, but this is not new, not because of my age now. But I somewhat I always like take the pictures, whether I have cell phone, the oldest, you know, digital or the manual photo photographs. So even though when I run into where where was it, where I was, who was with, who next to me? I can't remember. But why I love that? Because really, it brings, it captures your life, even you don't remember, and then reconnect. Also, I I come up with a new concept. I haven't done anything yet, but it's kind of developing in my mind, that we can, we are able to capture the past, but we cannot capture the future, because you know whether you know unexpected the one photo comes up, or an audio recording, or all those movies, musics, and documentaries and paintings throughout artistry, you can really capture the past depending on what you know your background or interest and education, but you cannot capture the future. But you can imagine, we can imagine the future. We can invest into the future. Michael Hingson  17:16 Well, and and the the reality is that that the future is based on so many things that happen in the past, and so you can learn to to use some of that information and and have a better idea of what the future might be like, and that's that's pretty fascinating too. So so, how long did you go to college Bircan Unver  17:42 in in Turkey the basic four university education is annual base, not semester base. It's a four years, and actually when I started it was five years. Then later on they the system education board changed it to like four years plus two years. So I graduated from a four years fine arts, and then I have a master's degree based in New York News School University. Michael Hingson  18:20 Ah, in New York. Bircan Unver  18:21 Yeah. Michael Hingson  18:22 Okay. So that was was that two years. Bircan Unver  18:27 Yes, but it was a little bit different again. Yeah. See, because first when I was here for the first time, 18 919, 89 to 1994, I started and I took to six credits and I love it. But I had to go back to Istanbul, so then I got the you know absence live of absence, and then but coming back three years later, I readmitted, and then I finish it. I got my graduate diploma in 1999 May 1999 Michael Hingson  19:12 Okay, so Bircan Unver  19:14 you've been dealing late. You've been Michael Hingson  19:17 dealing with school for a while, but but while all that was going on, you got interested in, and you started to to do things regarding public access television. And you started that, if I read your biography correctly, in in 1991, you started doing things with public public access TV. Tell us a little bit about that, and why did you do that? Bircan Unver  19:41 That's really the kind of key point in my life. In as for the initial one of the two reasons that I came to the U.S. as the first time, I was you know the first aim to learn English. The second also. To learn the TV production, and then my first year was in the U.S. was in L.A. and then I was looking for the schools and just I'm I I'd like to get the formal education, formal training, and then one of my friends there, whom I met there, she said my aunt is TV producer at Queens Public TV in New York, and she is looking for someone like you who really wants to get in and all that. And then I think a couple months later, I had a very brief trip to New York, and I met with her, and then I met with her at QPTV. Now she is unfortunately not with us, but she was also she was the first Turkish producer at QPTV, and I'm forever grateful in memory of her. She was the one who introduced me QPTV, so I met Victor at QPTV in 1990, and then when I went back to LA, I decided to move to New York. So as soon as I moved to New York and I registered to QPTV's both field production and studio, and at the time, there were seven, eight months waiting list. Eventually, I got it on the list, 1991, and first I got the field production certificate, and it was I think six months something, and we had a group project and solo project, and then studio and studio production. It's when the same group project after you are learning all the equipment and then shooting and everyone is crewing everyone is helping each other within the same group of the class and then also producing group project and then the individual project that it is the similar step for the field production and the studio, that also provides a certificate to enabling us to use QPTV equipment, studios taking out the equipment, inviting studios, studios. Unfortunately, after COVID 19, there has been a long dragging issue. They haven't opened the studios. This is I don't want to get in because it is beyond our concept, but because that was my initial reason also moving to New York. And then once I started producing program and airing, I really loved idea from one idea, just idea, and then put paper and develop it. Bring yes, bring the crew, especially with the manual three-inch tapes, and to present, put everything in a tape, and then submit it an ARC schedule. I really love that. So then, while I was there, and then I said, "Okay, I want to really have a master's degree on TV production. So my master's degree from New Zealand University is in media studies. So and I got my diploma May 1999 So, but New Zealand was amazing. I learned all the first my you know my life although it was 39 maybe 3839 years old when I was Photoshop and Premiere or Evid and all the first offline digital all the software program I learned at the new school and I edited my first program offline at the new circle as well, but when I got diploma, and then I had nowhere no access to continue. Also, you know, it's just I, I never been about the person. My mind and my heart wealthy, but not financial terms. And then, so QPT was always my second home because it provides me continuing the producing and provides me access, provides me equipment. It's like provides the community. That's what it is exists for, especially in support of the Article First Amendment and freedom of expression, and also QPTV format is really, really not well known, or not QPTV loaned. It is public access, pack programming, public education and government programming, non-commercial. So it's it is not much known widely, but it is really one of the best symbol of democracy. And now it's kind of a little bit diminishing because also widespreading out other web streaming platforms like this or other, so that there are so many. Discussion and issues, and also there is one petition to the New York Senate that is called Team New York that could also bring in all the web streaming to this community media access public access media. So then, Michael Hingson  25:19 oh, go ahead. Bircan Unver  25:20 No, I mean the question is so QPTV had has been the longest since 1991. I've been providing content, and as long as I am in the US, if I'm out of the country, even if I am out of the country, my previously submitted programs are rerunning in different, you know, whenever they schedule for my new programs, I determine which time slot because I have a time slot to be scheduled, and whether 28 minutes or one hour. But especially again after COVID 19, I couldn't produce anything at the studio at QPTV, but like this Zoom-based programs, and then for the late million organization, the programs I produce and then edit them, reformat them to schedule for QPTV. But it wasn't as it used to be produced at QPTV, at the studio with the crew, that's the excitement teaming up. It's really, I love it. But Zoom, this type also make more maybe manageable, but also bring more intonation speakers. You know, through online connection. If Speaker 1  26:54 you enjoy Unstoppable Mindset and would like to help us continue bringing these conversations to you each week, we've created a way for you to support the show. Your contribution helps us cover production costs and continue sharing stories, insights, and ideas that inspire people to live with purpose and possibility. If supporting the podcast feels right for you, you'll find the link in the show notes. Thank you for being part of the Unstoppable Mindset Community. Michael Hingson  27:28 So you you started in public access television and and and are still doing that essentially. But in 2000 you started Light Millennium TV. Tell us about Light Millennium Television. Bircan Unver  27:42 Thank you so much. Because Late Millennium, I still consider it's my third child because already 25th anniversary. The flyer on my back says 25th That also refers the 25th anniversary of the Light Millennium. I think a the experience and production, and also providing three platform QPTV, Queens Public TV, but actually the 1992 Communication Act and PAC programming, public government public education and government programming; those emerge with my new school education, like Fatrus, Plato, the concept of the two ways of messaging, and for the first time in my life, at the age of I think it was I was 39 I was able 3039, I was able to use. It was very new, also for the war. Internet. We had the internet at the new school as our media class, the open forum. One week media theory class. We have open discussion forum about Greek philosophy, further is communication, media theory. The other class we had the classic format. So all these together merged in my mind, and I really felt I found my medium. That medium is the internet, which me, especially someone is living in New York, who has you know 30 years first life in Turkey, Istanbul, that culture, and then I I didn't want to kind of disconnect from my root cultures, and internet provided me that connections, and also I always like to write and communicate, so so it becomes like natural medium. And then when I just graduated in May 1999 I send out by then like 40 people with my friends. Colleagues, and then I said, "Oh, I want to start a platform. This platform is going to be ours. And everyone wants to say, kind of to expand the QPTV's concept, because when I say QPTV's concept, this is the again First Amendment, and they don't control the content. They don't say anything you can do, you cannot unless it is a threat to someone's life. So it's all the content, or you are responsible as the producer. So I really love that freedom and responsibility again. And then then I was mentoring at the New York Food Moon Finance and Television, and I was kind of trying to find what I want to do, and I was already producing programs at QPTV. I never give up as as long as I could afford to produce the time and edit. Edit is always more time consuming, and then the executive director of the at the time 1999 Woman Film Man Television, she said you can form a nonprofit. I never taught it before, and I'm forever thankful to her. And then I said I don't know what to do where to start because she perhaps she saw the potential because I was producing non-commercial and publishing, trying to promote, you know, through group emails, and whatever the you know social media available at the time. Well, mostly email and group emails, and then she suggested me a volunteer lawyers of arts that she said they can help you, and I never knew and I never thought I if I never came to U.S. maybe I will never had a concept of forming a nonprofit or light minimum. So that U.S. and all combination brought me and news called Queens Public TV, First Amendment, United Nations Article of 19 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Everything together kind of merged in my mind. Also, the projects I produce, I communicate, is contact with people, I learn from them. So then, when I contacted with them, they ask me, you know, what is my statement this type? And then I drafted all of them, and they put in medical, you know, terms and terminology, and I was lucky that we got a pro bono at the time one of the you know major U.S. law firms. I I think I can say now because they even though I think merged K Shuler, but they took our case and they formed my organization on on a pro bono basis and officially the first as a non profit organization done with the 500 1c T V together. So we officially formed 2001 July 17, and we and then right after that they filed 501c3 for us, and then we granted that in September 18, 2002. Bircan Unver  33:14 My memory is not good, but I I remember that date as of today because it was kind of imprinted in my mind, but also the beauty was that the granted granting 501 c3 was effective of the formation date, which is July 17 2001 So then, since I developed started the light minimum concept, introducing speaking people trying creating an open platform that everyone can you know contribute be part of it, so then I started in January 2000 on January 13 2000 started first monthly the like TV series at like at QP TV. That's how it came about. Michael Hingson  34:02 Yeah, you have certainly created quite a niche in in the whole light millennium and all the other things that you've done, which is pretty fascinating. How did you get connected with the United Nations? Because I know you're doing work with them. Bircan Unver  34:18 Thank you. Actually, the concept with the UN use, I don't do work for them. Michael Hingson  34:29 Right. Bircan Unver  34:29 We do work with them. Right. You're connected Michael Hingson  34:34 with them. You're not working for them. I understand that. Bircan Unver  34:36 Yeah, I just you know one word, but it's key key differences. But as as I mentioned, how the light millennium concept emerged, and also my master's degree program, media studies at the New School, and also there is another person I have to mention here, also in. Separate for her respectful and loving memory, Danielle Camille. She was my advisor for my thesis project advisor at the new school, and all that TV ideas and my thesis project. And she loved, and I got all A. And my first TV ideas project was peace, reality, or utopian dream, and it was 11 minutes or so. It was just before the first Clinton administration election, just October, I think 2002 and then I interviewed many academicians, civil society, non-profits who whose focus area on peace and war and you know against nuclear or all that and and then that actually the concept peace reality or utopian dream that took me to the United Nations I don't know now as a as an outsider, at the time it was so welcoming, and I went to photo department. They share me with photos, and I got all the books I was looking for. Of course, public library. I got all the books about the peace and peace organization. So that 12 minutes program, peace rate or utopian dream, and physically led me to step in the UN for the first time, and then producing this project, searching kind of open to me new horizon, and also my advisor was persistent. Birjan, we know you are great. You produce fundamental programs on arts, but I want you to do something else. So that actually also forced me to move beyond producing something beyond arts. And so then then peace, reality, or utopian dream concept came in, but also it wasn't far topic in my life because my son was born 20 when I was 2022 Now he is 45 His name is Borush, and mean is in Turkish peace. Peace also at the time, you know, Africa hunger, and I was hoping when I get 4050, this will be over. It's not the case, but as a vision, I always look for humanistic positive for the humanity, not you know for myself well-being. Michael Hingson  37:38 Well, you you kind of act as a bridge between UN programs and local communities. Tell me more about that because you view that you view yourself as being a bridge between UN programs and the local community. Why do you why do you view yourself as more of a bridge? Bircan Unver  38:00 That's very nice metaphor, and I think it's very true for me too. Maybe I could take it two three step backs. One is the village I was born. There is a river, and and then there was a bridge, and that bridge was kind of fundamental. Really, going to where you know people are established, living in all the agriculture and large fields, and it was kind of nostalgic to me. It's a bridge, but it's a stone, short bridge. That's the the first part. The second Istanbul. You know, my life main path when I was in Istanbul, Turkey in Istanbul, and Istanbul the Bosphor and then the Istanbul Bridge. Now the name changed, and now three bridges, and not just the bridge itself, but also Turkish geographic Turkey's geographical space place on Earth and especially on in between Europe and Asia and Black Sea and then the Mediterranean Sea and then when you go down North Africa, and then you go up like Russia and North Europe. So you see that that connection physically, geographically, and troy physical bridges. We live, we grow up with this kind of as part of our DNA and vision. When I was working on this, the first the initial need you know in the non-profit world to describe the need need was to connect with my culture, people, friends, family, the internet medium, and then village is also metaphor, and when we associated with the. I let I'm proud to say it. Let the association process. That was also my vision from that small video for the class project. And then, then I realize this is also. I think today is real fact that local communities, even Queens here, people are paying 1000s of dollars to come to New York to get visas. All that trying to get the sponsor, you know, to attend a conference, and I I didn't see much interest within the local nonprofits there, and that little bit was shocking realization for me. So I brought to my programs UN visions programs, MDGs, UN days, sustainable development goals. For instance, when it was announced at the UN for the 2023 agenda, we created dreams for humanity. So we brought people from lots of life, poets, authors, and youths to really share their ideas for humanity, for peace. Michael Hingson  41:12 Well, you-it sounds like, from all that I've read and and studied, you're you're, or at some point, you kind of have moved more into dealing with a lot of things with the environment. So I know that your program has been able to get a credit accredited as an observer observer status with the UN Environment Program. How is how has that affected what you do and all of your work going forward. Bircan Unver  41:43 Thank you. This is also another important, I think, milestone for us. The first in connection with the UN, associated with the in the formerly United Nations Department of Public Information, and then it has changed to Department of Global Communications. Officially, we've been associated since 2005, active and good standing, and we are able to be presented at the UN with six representatives, and therefore we are able also to reflect back to our committee's networks from the UN and it's two ways. I really like the concept two ways messaging, and then always environment in somewhat it involves in our programs. But let's say through water, through energy, through, for instance, when the forest fires really burns my heart. So being sensible and trying to, as much as I could, to attend the meetings, especially MDGs for the first phase of the Millennium Declaration, really, it's. I consider UN is the best school I ever had, and it's for me lifetimes to call, and I learn about so many countries I will never otherwise know them much. Some of the names you hardly hear in media and anywhere else, so it's kind of opens and to see the global spectrum. Also, one of the things I really love at the UN, whether you you are a ambassador or president or prime minister of a country that has maybe a population 1 million or 2 million or 1 billion or two 1.6 billion, the largest one, so you have the same minutes of speaking time, same voting, especially of course, I'm talking about the general assembly. So those things I follow up, and we try to incorporate time to time. And water issue always, I wanted to involve. I want to do something about, but it's just not like because I love the tourists, and I'm not, you know, scientist, so I'm not officially trained. So also, I'm not able to protect the, you know, fires in the forest. And every year it's getting worse and worse. And then I'm sensible, but you know, you can't do much about it. And eventually, although our last name is same, but we are not blood connected. Professor Oljoymer, at the time he was vice president for the UN Water at the UN, and we connected. And I was following up, and I was aware his work before we met. We connected through the UN. So then, especially during the COVID era, then when I've seen his speeches, natural-based solutions, and then his piece on smart water, so I propose him if we can do something. About water, and then he was very supportive, very kind, very modest. We had our first water program on the World Water Day in March 2001 and then it has turned out an annual program, and we kind of made the global connections and collaborations, and especially first three, four of them, Professor Olja led and guide, and also we worked together in a sense that I brought one part of the speakers and he brought other parts. So it was also great, diverse speakers and also the level of the speakers from whether civil society, academia, UN, and youth, all that. So we already presented six of them, and 2023 we were part of the UN Water Conference. We presented a program, and then last year we participated and presented a program site event in Nice on the Ocean Conference, and we kind of we also had previously on the ocean again. So plastic also become whether ocean, whether water, whether land life, like plastic, is becoming a huge in every level. Not plastic, but also chemical, all all sorts of polluters on in environment. So then we become promoting, producing, and there are really great level of academicians and experts, and they also like to share and connect their research and their findings. So it's a platform to break down together, and then when it is a video, when it is posted as both a summary along with the full presentation or speech, so it becomes a really source where you know you can find diverse voices, diverse solutions, diverse ideas, and also we align them in support of the UN days, UN conferences, SDGs, sustainable development goals like Water Days. Also, we collaborate with an organization in India, IGEN Green Institution, Green Engineers Institute of Green Engineers. So they are focusing on energy SDG seven. So we contribute them, bringing speakers. Bircan Unver  47:40 So then they join us to our program. So really, it's an organic volunteer base. So that that actually, I was so proud that we got a call, invitation to submit the application for this accredited status, and it was June 2025 after the ocean conference. I think ocean conference kind of brought them cumulatively and maybe brought their attention. And then October they asked our official documents, the bylaws and and certificate of organization, which is the regular require any formal application at the UN, and then I I submitted them in I think it was October 1525 but I haven't heard anything, and then I thought maybe you know they didn't consider, and then literally a year later, in June, last June, we got approval, and with a, it's not just accredited for a special one particular conference. It is an observer status assembly to contribute draft ideas. I mean, to contribute drafts, draft resolution to observe, to participate, and then also to be responsible to provide every four-year quadrennial report. Let's say if we fail to produce contribution at any level to this cause, then you know we may lose that observed status, but of course we'll do our best to contribute and to continue. Michael Hingson  49:27 With all of the work that you've done in all of this, I want to come back to World Water Day in a moment. But with all the work that you've done and all the the the things that you've done in public television and so on, when you host these meetings or you participate in these meetings, do they get televised? Also, are you able to bring those to to the public through public television? Bircan Unver  49:53 When it is Zoom, then I edit within my time slot within the limits of. Time slots and QPTV provides two different time slots. One is 20-eight minutes, the other one is 50-eight minutes. So then, let's say if it's two-hour session, I you know a little bit edit and then title, etc. and part one, part two, and also depending on the length of the session or 20-eight minutes. So then I schedule them through the local channels, as we spoke at QPTV. Also, I make them available through our vmail.com/lmtv channel on web on the web. Also, when we have a summary or outcomes, so we also provide those links and share through social media. Try our best to make those information available, visible, and reachable. Michael Hingson  50:51 Well, that I'm glad you do that. I'm glad that it gets to be something that is a lot more publicized than you just attending a meeting-that's important, I would think, to do when when you talk about World Water Day and so on. One of the things that that I I understand you do is you compare water security directly with cybersecurity and gender equality. Those are three different sorts of things when you include water security. Tell us more about that. Bircan Unver  51:24 This was our latest program in last March, and we had in our prior program on AI a discussion on AI a public discussion on AI policy or AI arc. So he's a professor and at the SUNY, and he's a mathematician, and he's also teaching cybersecurity. And when I was talking about when we met about the water conference upcoming, actually in this December, in the United Emirates on I think December six to eight. Even I was thinking to attend, but I wanted part a bit this time virtually instead of going there. So when we were talking about and and I really like this idea and I say as I asked exactly what you asked for, and then his really statement explanation made great sense because everything is nowadays control troy some form of electronic or AI or a combination of those systems, right? Competing systems. So if or if there is a technical issues, that's one case. But if there is a hack, especially water is the life source for everyone, whether you are billion or trillion, or you are you know ordinary people on the you know everyday life. So water is the source for everything, including producing the energy. AI. So water is the life itself. So then, when he said, if any hacking, whether you know small you know some you know people with a bad intention or some maybe big corporation because some profit purpose they want to sell more you know bottled water whatever or some international security issues you you may name this many other things. So if a computer system, if the control mechanism, if the AI system, whatever that combination in that system, is hack, then everything is a huge risk, and that's number one. How it connects with the water. Also now you know we smart how everything is electronic. Everything and then when that somewhat the life collapses there. So including water, including energy. So everything is so much you know interconnected. And then how that the gender equality came. Also, we follow Michael the UN annual-based dedication team for each UN Day or conferences. For instance, last year, water and gender equality, because water and gender required is also so inseparable concept and conditions in many parts of the world, and then also our professor Emre Tokus, he also. Make beautiful connection that if woman or when woman, if and when women are more in the security, cyber security, IT technology sectors, they are more sensitive. They are more like maybe natural in their dealings, like mother protection. So more protective, so there is less risk than where it is now. So to increase the gender equality, both not burden on the woman, you know, where it's the water scarcity that woman has to carry the burden. Girls, even five, seven years old, when developing countries, when it comes to developing countries, and then if the girls are, and also that was staggering. Stats he gave sort of shocked me today because he is a professor at SUNY. So what I mean by that, he said one of his class has only four girls out of 31. of his class has only one girl. One of his class doesn't have no girl. So even though if if girls are girls are not getting in this field, how we gonna bring the gender balance in all cross-cutting sectors of society. So that's how both from the UN perspective, the dedication team, also cybersecurity, the profile from a university that girls are not showing attention, interest studying cybersecurity. That was the fact based on his class last semester. One Michael Hingson  56:46 of the things that you have done, as I understand, is you've written several books. Bircan Unver  56:53 Yes, there are more, but hopefully I could get work on them, publish them as well. The my first book was Michael, based on my interviews with artists and my reviews on art exhibits, and also when I had questionnaire surveys like with artists, galleries, academicians, professors, students. When I before my first life prior prior the U.S. So when I went back after four years and I was really eager to get in a job for as a TV producer and somewhat that didn't work despite all my efforts even I my project load and everyone was after me, but they want to take the project, but not give me the role what I deserve for. So then I kind of close myself, and then I said I want to compile my books, my articles, my interviews. So that was how my first book came about in Turkish. To create is the most sacred. So, like the value to give the highest value for the creativity, intellectual production. That is through all those interviews, reviews, and questions. So that's that was the first book. The second book is in a way a bridge again between U.S. and Istanbul, New York and Istanbul, or maybe L.A. New York and Istanbul. Because when I came in, also I've done freelance journalism, so I wrote some you know reviews and the magazine. I used to, you know, send and appear my interviews and reviews. So and it was include not too frequent, but it was include some of major exhibits, both from LA and also from the Metropolitan Museum in MoMA in New York. Also Turkish artists here. So I met them, you know, when I was living. I started living in here. So then I a combination of those, and also that was another metaphor developed in my mind when I was Istanbul. I was feeling like the labyrinths of arts. So that's my second book title in Turkish labyrinths in arts. So like you are like this kind of narrow and small world in Istanbul art worlds and very high competition, and then nobody expanding to New York and LA expansion means bringing some, for instance, Franz Bacon, Thomas Hart Benton, and Max Ernst and Marina Magritte. Those also the last part connecting with the New York Istanbul from my art based on my art background. Michael Hingson  59:51 So, were any of the books published in English? The Bircan Unver  59:54 last 120, 23 is English, but. It is a compilation concept is written me. I directed the project, and of course I have some pieces also beside the concept. But it is a compilation by 24 contributors. It is based on the JUC Media Research Writing Awards 2021 and 2023 High School Awards Project, and also it is also engaging the youth to involve the UN programs at an early age and encourage them award them. So that also the next one is going to be on the Water Action Decatur in the same line, same concept, and also I have a book project since 2022 I couldn't still 2022 2020 actually. I dream, therefore I am. I have 80% of the book manuscript is ready, but I couldn't finalize it, and so the other one also I was hoping but couldn't to have a book for the 25th anniversary of the latentium. Unfortunately, it didn't happen. It's a little bit seemingly not going to happen this year to come up 25th anniversary of late millennium, but I had 20 anniversary of the late millennium in Turkish, and so this is completely different issue because I introduced like Millennium both in Turkish and in English, so it's like Tiffany Sister is the Turkish one, and then I formed Turkish sister in 2010, and then so on the 20th anniversary of the Turkish organization, as it is association, official association. So I compile the first part, the concept vision, very much like Millennium, because it's the system. But the second part based on the programs, activities, and challenges in Istanbul. So this book also in English will be first the the manifesto and the first all the history will be very much in English, the original one. But the second part is going to be completely, you know, selected ideas and projects and programs from the website and public programs from the last 20-five years, and it's hard hard things to do. It it's very challenging. I couldn't do it. Michael Hingson  1:02:47 It's it's a lot of work. Well, Berjan, I I want to tell you that we have now been talking for more than an hour. Time flies when you're having fun. Man, I'm going to go. I'm going to have to go ahead and and end our time, but we'll have to do this again and and continue the discussion. But I really appreciate you taking the time to be here, and I hope that people will monitor your programs and and and read your books if they can read Turkish or English, whichever works. Troy Bircan Unver  1:03:18 has so many English pieces, and now everyone welcome to look out our website. And what's the Michael Hingson  1:03:26 website again? Bircan Unver  1:03:28 lmglobal.org. Michael Hingson  1:03:32 lmglobal.org. Okay. Bircan Unver  1:03:34 Yes, but the whole archive from 2019 to 2000 no, 2019 no. of course not 2019 1999 to 2018 The archive. Our initial website is light millennium.org Millennium is with double N double N. So the everything we are talking about, all the process, our UN programs, and the reports from the UN NGO briefings, some conferences we participated. If anyone has any question, I'll be happy to provide the link and you know to contact them. Michael Hingson  1:04:17 And we will put that information in the show notes, the notes for the podcast. So I want to thank you for being here. This has been absolutely informative. I really appreciate your time, and I hope the programs continue to go well. So I want to thank you again for being here, and this has just been a lot of fun. Bircan Unver  1:04:39 Thank you so much, Michael Kingston, it is great honor and privilege. Especially, you are a hero, and your your story is amazing, and you are also taking really one of the challenges works like producing these programs, and we never met in real life. And then this is also like Millennium and your work. How we connected through? Otherwise, there was no like regular environment or database environment that we could meet. Your work and your dedication and your inspiring contribution really connected us and bring us together in this session. Thank you, and I'm really grateful for that. Michael Hingson  1:05:29 Thank you for being here with me on Unstoppable Mindset. I hope today's conversation left you with a fresh perspective, a new insight, or at least something worth thinking about. If you're ready to go deeper into the ideas that shape how we see ourselves and others, I have a free gift for you. Head over to michaelhingson.com and download my free ebook, Blinded by Fear. It explores the invisible beliefs that hold us back and shows you how to reframe them so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and share this show with someone who can use a reminder that growth starts with mindset. When people think differently, we all move forward together. Thanks again for listening. Keep learning, keep questioning, and keep choosing to live with an unstoppable mindset

Cracked Racquets Editor-in-Chief Alex Gruskin checks in on this week's WTA and ATP Tour action. He shares his takeaways from the ground in Lincoln. He then breaks down the biggest results from Athens, Iasi, Gstaad, Bastad, and Umag, offers his predictions for the rest of the week, plus SO much more!! Episode Notes Lincoln Challenger - 6:25 WTA Athens - 19:40 WTA Iasi - 23:15 ATP Gstaad - 24:45 ATP Bastad - 29:00 ATP Umag - 30:05 WTA 125Ks (Kitzbuhel, Istanbul, Rome) - 31:40 ATP Challengers (Granby, Pozoblanco, Bunschoten, Cordenons) - 33:10 Laurel Springs Ranked among the best online private schools in the United States, Laurel Springs stands out when it comes to support, personalization, community, and college prep. They give their K-12 students the resources, guidance, and learning opportunities they need at each grade level to reach their full potential. Find Cracked Racquets Website: https://www.crackedracquets.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/crackedracquets Twitter: https://twitter.com/crackedracquets Facebook: https://Facebook.com/crackedracquets YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/crackedracquets Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I've got an extremely busy week down in Mobile, Alabama, and so I'm re-sharing the John MacArthur memorial podcast I did last July after he passed away. I begin with a few memories of running into MacArthur's writing and preaching, followed by a clip of what may have been his shortest exposition ever: Hebrews 13:3. I'm your China travel guide, Missionary Ben. Follow and/or message me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I post (among other things) daily reminders to pray for China.You can also email me @ bfwesten at gmail dot com. Lastly, to learn more about our ministry endeavors or get one of my missionary biographies, visit PrayGiveGo.us! After John MacArthur passed away a year ago today, it dawned on me that there was an opportunity to honor him while mostly keeping to the topic of my mid-week podcast, the Prison Pulpit, reminding us to pray for the persecuted church. But before sharing the MacArthur preaching clip from 1973 on Hebrews 13:3, I briefly talk about the following topics… My first MacArthur memory: Scary Nursing Home Book Stand My best MacArthur memory: Titus exposition (via mp3) from Istanbul to Sophia, Bulgaria My only visit to Grace Community Church: Random Tuesday in 2012 My favorite MacArthur sermon: https://www.gty.org/sermons/GTY104/the-tale-of-two-sons My closest connection to John MacArthur: My late Uncle Jack Read the written version of today’s podcast on my Substack: https://chinacall.substack.com/p/macarthurs-shortest-exposition-ever Why did I begin this weekly Prison Pulpit series? To remind us all to pray for persecuted pastors and believers (such as Pastor Wang Yi) as Hebrews 13:3 teaches us to do (“as bound with them”), by sharing from his own published writings in China, as well as more prison stories and sermons from others like the late Richard Wurmbrand. Here’s my humble attempt at expositing Hebrews 13:3: https://chinacall.substack.com/p/remember-my-chains Follow China Compass Follow or subscribe to China Compass on whichever platform you use. You can also send any questions or comments on X: @chinaadventures or via email (bfwesten at gmail dot com). Hebrews 13:3!

I've got an extremely busy week down in Mobile, Alabama, and so I'm re-sharing the John MacArthur memorial podcast I did last July after he passed away. I begin with a few memories of running into MacArthur's writing and preaching, followed by a clip of what may have been his shortest exposition ever: Hebrews 13:3. I'm your China travel guide, Missionary Ben. Follow and/or message me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I post (among other things) daily reminders to pray for China.You can also email me @ bfwesten at gmail dot com. Lastly, to learn more about our ministry endeavors or get one of my missionary biographies, visit PrayGiveGo.us! After John MacArthur passed away a year ago today, it dawned on me that there was an opportunity to honor him while mostly keeping to the topic of my mid-week podcast, the Prison Pulpit, reminding us to pray for the persecuted church. But before sharing the MacArthur preaching clip from 1973 on Hebrews 13:3, I briefly talk about the following topics… My first MacArthur memory: Scary Nursing Home Book Stand My best MacArthur memory: Titus exposition (via mp3) from Istanbul to Sophia, Bulgaria My only visit to Grace Community Church: Random Tuesday in 2012 My favorite MacArthur sermon: https://www.gty.org/sermons/GTY104/the-tale-of-two-sons My closest connection to John MacArthur: My late Uncle Jack Read the written version of today’s podcast on my Substack: https://chinacall.substack.com/p/macarthurs-shortest-exposition-ever Why did I begin this weekly Prison Pulpit series? To remind us all to pray for persecuted pastors and believers (such as Pastor Wang Yi) as Hebrews 13:3 teaches us to do (“as bound with them”), by sharing from his own published writings in China, as well as more prison stories and sermons from others like the late Richard Wurmbrand. Here’s my humble attempt at expositing Hebrews 13:3: https://chinacall.substack.com/p/remember-my-chains Follow China Compass Follow or subscribe to China Compass on whichever platform you use. You can also send any questions or comments on X: @chinaadventures or via email (bfwesten at gmail dot com). Hebrews 13:3!

In dieser Episode korrigieren wir unser gefährliches Halbwissen über Gnocchi, staunen über den Aldi-Hype in Manhattan und suchen Verstärkung für einen Videodreh in Istanbul. Außerdem diskutieren wir die rote Karte für Balogun und Trumps Einfluss auf die Fußball-WM. Manuel empfiehlt ein spannendes Brettspiel namens „Dorfromantik". Zum Schluss beantworten wir, welche Kuchen und Desserts wir am liebsten mögen.   Transkript und Vokabelhilfe Werde ein Easy German Mitglied und du bekommst unsere Vokabelhilfe, ein interaktives Transkript und Bonusmaterial zu jeder Episode: easygerman.org/membership   Sponsoren Hier findet ihr unsere Sponsoren und exklusive Angebote: easygerman.org/sponsors   Das ist interessant: Aldi-Hype in Manhattan NBC News: German-owned supermarkets focused on value take U.S. by storm (YouTube)   Unsere Hausmitteilung Wir suchen eine*n Schauspieler*in in Istanbul für einen Videodreh am 29. und 30. September! Wenn ihr in Istanbul lebt, Deutsch sprecht und Interesse habt, bewerbt euch auf: easygerman.org/istanbul   Das nervt: Trump ruiniert Fußball Balogun-Sperre ausgesetzt - Trump: "Habe die FIFA um Prüfung der Roten Karte gebeten" (Tagesschau) Team Belgium sings YMCA to troll Trump after he helped them beat us. (YouTube)   Empfehlung der Woche: Dorfromantik Dorfromantik: Das Brettspiel (Wikipedia)   Eure Fragen Ashitha aus Indien fragt: Was ist euer Lieblingsdessert? Donauwelle (Wikipedia) Spanish Lemon Cheesecake (Gü Desserts) Hast du eine Frage an uns? Auf easygerman.fm kannst du uns eine Sprachnachricht schicken.   Support Easy German and get interactive transcripts, live vocabulary and bonus content: easygerman.org/membership

The "Community Meets Clinic" podcast series introduces clinicians and healthcare personnel specializing in rare neuroimmune disorders. In this episode, Krissy Dilger of SRNA spoke with Dr. Ayşe Altıntaş, Professor of Neurology at Koç University School of Medicine in Istanbul, Turkey, which has been designated as a Center of Excellence in Rare Neuroimmune Disorders. Dr. Altıntaş described the unmet needs in rare neuroimmune disorders and noted her role on an international panel developing updated NMOSD diagnostic criteria [00:03:40]. She outlined current research on mechanisms of optic neuritis, pregnancy complications and aquaporin-4 antibodies, and developing accessible biomarkers beyond CSF with a future goal of remote monitoring [00:06:01]. Dr. Altıntaş also explained Koç University's multidisciplinary demyelinating disease center model, emphasizing coordinated consultations, advanced MRI capabilities, shared decision-making, and the value of specialized centers, while expressing hope due to rapid advances in biomarkers and targeted therapies [00:11:43]. You can view the medical profile of Dr. Ayşe Altıntaş here:https://www.kuh.ku.edu.tr/doctors/ayse-altintasAyşe Altıntaş, MD is a professor of neurology at Koç University School of Medicine in Istanbul, Türkiye. She graduated from Ege University Faculty of Medicine in 1986 and completed her neurology residency there in 1992. She received early training in neuroimmunology as a fellow at Mayo Clinic under Prof. Moses Rodriguez and later continued her research at Mayo Clinic with Prof. Claudia Lucchinetti and Prof. Brian Weinshenker, focusing on the animal model, immunopathology, and imaging correlates of multiple sclerosis.Prof. Altıntaş served at Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine for 23 years before joining Koç University in 2018, where she established a neuroimmunology laboratory and continues to lead clinical and translational research. Her work focuses on multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) and MOG antibody-associated diseases (MOGAD), with an emphasis on biomarkers and disease mechanisms. She is actively involved in international organizations, including BioMS-eu, The MOG Project, Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association (SRNA), MEDEN, the MSBase Scientific Leadership Group, and the Guthy-Jackson Charitable Foundation International Scientific Consortium.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:39 Why Neurology03:40 Choosing Rare Disorders06:01 Current Research Projects11:43 Clinic Team and Workflow15:48 Advanced Imaging and Coordination17:20 Self Care and Balance20:20 Advice for New Patients22:17 Hope for the Future24:34 Closing

There's a long history of exploitation in the denim supply chain, as our first guest this week, Bego Demir, can attest. He developed incurable silicosis in the 2000s as a result of his sandblasting job in a Turkish factory producing jeans for a famous American brand.These days Bego coordinates Clean Clothes Campaign Türkiye, and is supporting a creative new activist strategy to hold another brand to account, this time for making big claims about being "responsibly made", while workers in a supplier factory in Istanbul faced harsh consequences when they dared to organise for better conditions.Earlier this year, the Dutch office of the CCC network filed a groundbreaking lawsuit against denim giant Levi Strauss. Their core argument is that Levi's used misleading claims on the labour conditions in its supply chain when advertising its products to Dutch consumers. Four individual consumers, who purchased Levi's products believing they were buying from an ethical brand, have joined the lawsuit. One of then, Pam, is also on this week's show sharing her perspective.Too many brands fail to prevent worker exploitation in their supply chains, from union busting to denying workers' their basic rights, whether that's the right to organise, to strike, or to be paid a living wage. Could this latest CCC tactic - to use consumer law that protects shoppers from greenwashing - make a difference? Let's find out.Find links and further reading at thewardrobecrisis.comSupport the show on Substack - wardrobecrisis.substack.comTell us what you think. Find Clare on Instagram @mrspress Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elif Koyutürk is a filmmaker, photographer, and all-around artist originally from Istanbul, now based in Bend, Oregon. Elif works across many mediums—photography, poetry, film, and more—but the throughline in everything she does is a drive to make people feel a story, not just read the facts of it. She brings a rare kind of power and passion to her work, and it's clear that her connection to land and place isn't just a subject for her, it's personal. Like so many fascinating people I talk to on this podcast, her path wasn't a straight line. She grew up between the massive city of Istanbul and her family's farm, raised by journalist parents and a house full of grandmothers steeped in Anatolian tradition. She taught herself photography using a camera with a moldy, secondhand 23-euro lens and won international awards with it before she ever touched professional, high-dollar gear. From there she talked her way onto a Red Bull film crew in a hotel lobby, worked in Austria, and eventually landed in Los Angeles with one suitcase and no contacts, on an "Extraordinary Ability" visa. In this conversation, we get into all of it—her childhood in Istanbul, her creative process and her synesthesia, and how she built a career from nothing through sheer resourcefulness and energy. We also spend a lot of time on her new film, Guardians of Anatolia, which premiered at Telluride Mountainfilm and follows a female-led nomadic tribe in Turkey's Taurus Mountains as they fight to hold onto a 9,000-year-old matriarchal way of life against modern water and land pressures. I hope you enjoy this one, as it hits on so many of the topics I enjoy– art, conservation, agriculture, creativity, and hard work– but with an international perspective that is now rooted here in the West. --- Elif Koyutürk Guardians of Anatolia Elif on Instagram Episode notes and links: https://mountainandprairie.com/elif-koyuturk --- THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Mountain & Prairie is listener supported via Patreon, and brought to you with support from the Freeflow Institute, The Nature Conservancy in Colorado, and the Well Done Foundation for their generous sponsorship. --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 0:00 - Introducing Elif Koyutürk 2:49 - Early Elif 7:36 - Artistic inclinations  11:33 - To the U.S.  18:34 - Off the plane in L.A. 22:20 - Making money 24:57 - Connections to friendships 28:50 - Being raw and clumsy 30:49 - Guardians of Anatolia origin story 37:49 - A vanishing way of life 40:23 - Emerging filmmaker  43:40 - Path forward for the film 45:54 - What's next 51:39 - Old Salt takeaways 57:15 - Plot twist: jiu jitsu! 1:02:52 - Rivers in Bend, OR 1:05:35 - Book recs 1:08:16 - Wrapping up --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts