Podcast appearances and mentions of natasha lance rogoff

Ron talks about how compliments are so important. He also sarcastically takes a look at showers and bathtubs..... Guest: producer  Natasha Lance Rogoff took the production of Sesame Street to Moscow in Russia with some very interesting results

Guest: Natasha Lance Rogoff on making Sesame Street in Russia in the turbulent 1990s. The post Sesame Street in Russia appeared first on The Eurasian Knot.

Trotha, Hans vonwww.deutschlandfunkkultur.de, Studio 9

Trotha, Hans vonwww.deutschlandfunkkultur.de, Studio 9

Trotha, Hans vonwww.deutschlandfunkkultur.de, Studio 9

Natasha Lance Rogoff and her team fight bureaucracy to bring Sesame Street to a newly democratic Russia; Johanne Pelletier reconnects with her late father's friend and helps him navigate the end of his life; and Dave Fromm decides to become a pro basketball player in Europe, despite a distinct lack of talent. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/

Documentary filmmaking Natasha Lance Rogoff on bringing Sesame Street to Russia, the mechanics of a television global series, what makes Sesame Street so successful, the driving force behind creating art in dangerous circumstances and how she learned to write a memoir. *ABOUT NATASHA LANCE ROGOFFNatasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning American television producer, filmmaker, and the author of the bestselling book, Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia. Lance Rogoff executive produced Ulitsa Sezam, the Russian adaptation of Sesame Street from 1993-1997. * RESOURCES & LINKSMuppets in Moscow by Natasha Lance Rogoff Russian Millenials Speak Openly About America The Art of Memoir by Mary KarrBird by Bird by Anne Lamott Save the CatFor show notes, transcripts and to attend our live podcasts visit: podcast.londonwriterssalon.comFor free writing sessions, join free Writers' Hours: writershour.com*FOLLOW LONDON WRITERS' SALONTwitter: twitter.com/​​WritersSalonInstagram: instagram.com/londonwriterssalonFacebook: facebook.com/LondonWritersSalonIf you're enjoying this show, please rate and review this show!

This week, Anthony talks with award-winning filmmaker and journalist Natasha Lance-Rogoff about her recent book Muppets in Moscow which details Natasha's story of bringing Sesame Street to post-communist Russia almost 30 years ago.From the kidnapping of Elmo to AK-47s and assassinations, getting The Muppets across the finish line was more than a challenge, Natasha is incredibly honest with Anthony on what it really took–and provides insight on Putin and the Russia we see today.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jordan Rich filled in on NightSide:Did you know that bringing the beloved television show Sesame Street to the former Soviet empire was not a walk in the park? In fact, it was a challenging and dangerous venture for the show's production team. The project overcame bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office! American television producer and filmmaker Natasha Lance Rogoff joined Jordan to share this thrilling tale about “Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia.”

How do you produce a children's TV show in post-Soviet Russia? What's the secret to Sesame Street's international success? This we, we chat with Natasha Lance Rogoff, producer of the Russian Sesame Street (Ulitsa Sezam), about her unexpected crazy true story detailed in her book Muppets in Moscow. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an is an award-winning filmmaker, journalist and the TV producer/director who, with her team, brought Sesame Street to Russia after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Meet a daring creative woman with an incredible story,  Natasha Lance Rogoff.  She is the author of “Muppets In Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street  in Russia. “  Natasha was the American TV producer tasked with launching the public television show in  the former Soviet Union.  Amidst bombings, assassinations and a military takeover of the production office, she and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning and a new way of seeing the world to the children of Russia,, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire.

Natasha produces content for television and digital platforms and is the CEO of an Ed-Tech Company, An Associate Fellow in Harvard University's Art, Film, and Visual Studies Department.Natasha Lance Rogoff is the Author and Writer of "MUPPETS IN MOSCOW", THE UNEXPECTED CRAZY TRUE STORY OF MAKING the SESAME STREET in RUSSIA.Natasha Lance Rogoff discusses how she had an interest in Russia, the literature, and culture at a young age, why she wrote the book, the many challenges in bringing "Muppets in Moscow" such as car bombings, assassinations, and the dedication of her co-workers both American and Russian! There were cultural differences in show ideas, and how the children auditioned for the show.Natasha also discusses getting married and being pregnant while traveling and working during the time Moscow was being created and produced in Russia! Ulitsa Sezam was on for ten years and has made an impact on children from all areas of Ukraine and the former Soviet Union! /Muppets-Moscow-Unexpected-Making-Sesame

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be.  In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production--from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves--despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. 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

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be.  In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production--from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves--despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be.  In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production--from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves--despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/performing-arts

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be.  In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production--from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves--despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/russian-studies

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be.  In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production--from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves--despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/communications

Alcatraz: 250 Years on the Rock - John Martini The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and as part of our Art Of Living interview series, we have an excellent program about America's most notorious island: Alcatraz,  home of Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary.  Our guest today is Smithsonian Associate John Martini. John Martini will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up, and the title of John Martini's presentation is Alcatraz: 250 Years on the Rock  Check out our website for more details. Thank you so much for listening. We've got a great guest today for our Smithsonian Associates  Art Of Living interview series with Smithsonian Associate John Martini.   I'll introduce  Smithsonian Associate John Martini in just a moment.  But, quickly, if you missed any episodes, last week was our 706th episode when I spoke to Smithsonian Associate, returning guest biblical scholar and NYT best-selling author Dr. Bart Ehrman.  Two weeks ago, as part of our series on Women's History Month, I spoke with award-winning American television producer, filmmaker, and journalist Natasha Lance Rogoff author of the new book Muppets in Moscow.   Excellent subjects for our Not Old Better Show audience, especially during Women's History Month…If you missed those shows, along with any others, you can go back and check them out with my entire back catalog of shows, all free for you, there on our website, NotOld-Better.com Alcatraz is America's most notorious island, and its most misunderstood. Beginning with its first sighting by Europeans in 1769 through its present standing as the top paid tourist attraction in San Francisco, its history is multi-layered. Former National Park ranger and historian John Martini talks to us today about how he's uncovered both the island's infamous past as a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963 and its lesser-known roles as a Civil War fortress, political prison for Confederate sympathizers, and a military prison for recalcitrant U.S. Army soldiers and Native American warriors.  The title of John Martini's presentation at Smithsonian Associates is Alcatraz: 250 Years On The Rock.  We've got lots of questions for John…let's jump right in. My thanks to John Martini for his generous time today.  Remember to check out John Martini's presentation at Smithsonian Associates is Alcatraz: 250 Years On The Rock.  And, check out the show notes today for more information and ticket details.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to you, my wonderful Not Old Better Show audience… Let's talk about better.  The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates interview series.  Thanks, everybody.  For more details, please check out Smithsonian Associates:  https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/alcatraz

Natasha Lance Rogoff's daunting task of making Sesame Street in post-Soviet Russia. In the early 90s, American journalist Natasha Lance Rogoff was covering the collapse of the Soviet Union – until the Muppets came calling, and she was tasked with bringing Sesame Street to Moscow. After decades of communism a new Russia was emerging, but could it embrace a US TV show? Creating Ulitsa Sezam was a daunting challenge for Natasha. She would have to overcome a huge culture clash and, along the way, face mobsters with shark tanks, bankruptcy, and the kidnapping of Elmo. Natasha has written a book called Muppets in Moscow: The unexpected crazy true story of making Sesame Street in Russia. Presenter: Asya Fouks Producer: Maryam Maruf Editor: Munazza Khan

Armageddon & The End - Dr. Bart Ehrman The Not Old Better Show, Author Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, I'm Paul Vogelzang and today's show is brought to you by BetterHelp and Sunday. As part of our Art Of Living author interview series, we have an excellent program about Armageddon, with returning biblical scholar and NYT best-selling author Dr. Bart Ehrman. Thank you so much for listening. I'll re-introduce Dr. Bart Ehrman to our Not Old Better Show audience in just a moment.  But, quickly, if you missed any episodes, last week was our 705th  episode when I spoke to award-winning American television producer, filmmaker, and journalist Natasha Lance Rogoff author of the new book Muppets in Moscow.  Two weeks ago, as part of our series on Women's History Month, I spoke with Smithsonian Associate, Emmy award-winning filmmaker Sara Lukinson about the magnificent Barbra Streisand.  Excellent subjects for our Not Old Better Show audience, especially during Women's History Month…If you missed those shows, along with any others, you can go back and check them out with my entire back catalog of shows, all free for you, there on our website, NotOld-Better.com Our guest today and returning audience favorite, Dr. Bart Ehrman, has written or edited over thirty books, including six New York Times bestsellers.  Dr. Ehrman's newest book, Armageddon: What the Bible Really Says about the End. Already a New York Times bestseller, Dr. Ehrman will reveal, as a Biblical scholar, why our popular understanding of the Apocalypse is all wrong—and why that matters. Dr. Bart Ehrman says we will find nearly everything the Bible has to say about the end in the Book of Revelation: Dr. Ehrman tells us today why The Book of Revelation is a mystifying prophecy filled with bizarre symbolism, violent imagery, mangled syntax, confounding contradictions, and very firm ideas about the horrors that await us all. But whether you understand the book as a literal description of what will soon come to pass, interpret it as a metaphorical expression of hope for those suffering now, or only recognize its highlights from pop culture, what you think Revelation reveals…is almost certainly wrong. Please join me in welcoming to the Not Old Better Show on radio and podcast, returning biblical scholar and NYT best-selling author Dr. Bart Ehrman. My thanks to BetterHelp and Sunday for sponsoring today's show.  My thanks to returning biblical scholar and NYT best-selling author Dr. Bart Ehrman.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show, and of course, my thanks to you, my wonderful Not Old Better Show audience… Let's talk about better.  The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates interview series.  Thanks, everybody. 

Muppets In Moscow - Natasha Lance Rogoff The Not Old Better Show, Author Interview Series Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Author Interview Series on radio and podcast. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today's show is brought to you by Shady Rays sunglasses and Trivia Star the #1 trivia game in the Apple app store.  As part of our Art Of Living author interview series, we have an excellent program about wild tale of producing the Russian version of Sesame Street (Ulitsa Sezam) in the early to mid-1990s. Thank you so much for listening. We've got a great guest today for our  Art Of Living author interview series with Natasha Lance Rogoff, author of the new book, Muppets in Moscow and I'll introduce her in just a moment.  But, quickly, if you missed any episodes, last week was our 704th  episode when I spoke to Smithsonian Women's History Month Series Smithsonian Associate, Emmy award-winning filmmaker Sara Lukinson about the magnificent Barbra Streisand.  Two weeks ago, as part of our Smithsonian Associates Science Literacy series, I spoke to scientist, journalist, and author Kelly Beatty.  For the past 35 years, J. Kelly Beatty has kept his readers on the edge of their front-row seats to much of the exploration of our solar system as senior editor of Sky & Telescope.  Excellent subjects for our Not Old Better Show audience, especially during Women's History Month…If you missed those shows, along with any others, you can go back and check them out with my entire back catalog of shows, all free for you, there on our website, NotOld-Better.com After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring the venerable, long-time popular children's program Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western idealistic values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In 1993, the Sesame Workshop hired our guest today Natasha Lance Rogoff, an American, to bring Sesame Street to Russia. The Muppets and Sesame Street are American cultural icons, and introducing them to Russia so soon after the collapse of communism would not be easy. In Muppets in Moscow, our guest today, Natasha Lance Rogoff brings the story to life. Natasha Lance Rogoff , fluent in Russian, is an award-winning American television producer, filmmaker, and journalist who has produced television news and documentaries in Russia, Ukraine, and the former Soviet Union for CBS, NBC, ABC, and PBS. Natasha Lance Rogoff executive produced Ulitsa Sezam, the Russian adaptation of Sesame Street, between 1993 and 1997 That, of course, is our guest today Natasha Lance Rogoff, reading from her new book, Muppets In Moscow.  Please join me in welcoming to The Not Old Better Show, Author Interview Series on radio, and podcast Natasha Lance Rogoff. My thanks to Shady Rays sunglasses and Trivia Star the #1 trivia game in the Apple app store, for sponsoring today's show.  My thanks to Natasha Lance Rogoff for her generous time and reading.  My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show, and of course, my thanks to you, my wonderful Not Old Better Show audience… Let's talk about better.  The Not Old Better Show Smithsonian Associates interview series.  Thanks, everybody. 

Welcome to Finding Certainty, where we explore the stories and strategies of successful leaders and entrepreneurs. In this episode, host Patrick Laing interviews producer, director, and writer of television documentaries and children's programming for over 25 years, Natasha Lance Rogoff. The best-selling author of, Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia, the book (and writer) have received widespread recognition, including a starred review in Publishers Weekly. Patrick and Natasha discuss her inspiring journey of helping bring Sesame Street to Russian audiences, the challenges she and her team faced along the way (including assassination attempts, a car bombing, and more), and the lessons they learned, including the importance of perseverance, creativity, and finding common ground across cultures and perspectives. Natasha shares how The Muppets helped change the perspective and aspirations of an entire generation of Russians. She and Patrick touch on the Russian/Ukrainian conflict and Natasha shares some important insights into the conflict, the people, and the challenges of being Russian. Join Patrick in this engaging conversation with Natasha Lance Rogoff to hear her unique and insightful story, and learn from her experience in overcoming obstacles and achieving goals. For more information on Natasha, visit her website at https://www.natashalancerogoff.com/. For more info on Finding Certainty, Certainty Management, and/or Patrick Laing, visit https://www.certaintyteam.com/ or text the word Certainty to 26786.

The captivating story of a young American television producer's adventures bringing Sesame Street to post-communist Russia. Against the backdrop of bombings, assassinations, and culture clashes—pitting Western values against three hundred years of Russian thought, the Russian-American creative team battles to bring laughter, entertainment, and education to millions of Russian children and families. This book is published by ROWMAN & LITTLEFIELD and is nothing short of a fascinating tale which is hard to put down. The book's author NATASHA LANCE ROGOFF is to be commended and we are more than delighted to have her as a guest on the Rick Flynn Presents podcast. This is one amazing story and you are about to hear one amazing guest. Get the book "Muppets in Moscow - The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia" anywhere books are sold. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rick-flynn/support

Muppets in Moscow is Natasha Lance Rogoff's account of launching a Russian version of the American tv series Sesame Street. If a single announcer supplies the dialogue dubbing when a foreign film is shown in Russia where do you find the technical skills you need? Should you feature exclusively ethnically Russian actors or include nationalities from former Soviet republics? What puppets from Russian folklore might be suitable and what kind of education for children are you trying to achieve? Anne McElvoy asks Natasha about how she found the answers to these questions and how that period of Russian TV differs from the media landscape there today. Plus New Generation Thinker Victoria Donovan looks at punk protest and films such as Little Vera (1988); Lucy Weir traces the ways in which art and music responded to the era of Perestroika and beyond; and, Tamar Koplatadze explores how literature from across the former republics of the USSR is beginning to process the Soviet past. Producer: Ruth Watts

Ed and Ron are honored to welcome Natasha Lance Rogoff to The Soul of Enterprise. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western idealistic values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow, Natasha Lance Rogoff brings the story to life. Lance Rogoff, a young American television producer fluent in Russian, was chosen to lead a crew of hundreds of American and Russian artists, producers, educators, writers, and puppeteers to create the Russian adaptation. During the production, against the backdrop of bombings and the assassination of her Russian broadcast partners, Lance Rogoff and the team remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia. In her book, she illuminates how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production, from the show's educational framework to scriptwriting to the new Russian Muppets themselves, often pitting Sesame Street's Western values against nearly four centuries of Russian thought. In spite of the challenges, the show would go on to become a major hit, airing for over a decade. Muppets in Moscow explores post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, it provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains more relevant than ever today.

Ed and Ron are honored to welcome Natasha Lance Rogoff to The Soul of Enterprise. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western idealistic values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow, Natasha Lance Rogoff brings the story to life. Lance Rogoff, a young American television producer fluent in Russian, was chosen to lead a crew of hundreds of American and Russian artists, producers, educators, writers, and puppeteers to create the Russian adaptation. During the production, against the backdrop of bombings and the assassination of her Russian broadcast partners, Lance Rogoff and the team remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia. In her book, she illuminates how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production, from the show's educational framework to scriptwriting to the new Russian Muppets themselves, often pitting Sesame Street's Western values against nearly four centuries of Russian thought. In spite of the challenges, the show would go on to become a major hit, airing for over a decade. Muppets in Moscow explores post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, it provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains more relevant than ever today.

Ed and Ron are honored to welcome Natasha Lance Rogoff to The Soul of Enterprise. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western idealistic values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow, Natasha Lance Rogoff brings the story to life. Lance Rogoff, a young American television producer fluent in Russian, was chosen to lead a crew of hundreds of American and Russian artists, producers, educators, writers, and puppeteers to create the Russian adaptation. During the production, against the backdrop of bombings and the assassination of her Russian broadcast partners, Lance Rogoff and the team remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia. In her book, she illuminates how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production, from the show's educational framework to scriptwriting to the new Russian Muppets themselves, often pitting Sesame Street's Western values against nearly four centuries of Russian thought. In spite of the challenges, the show would go on to become a major hit, airing for over a decade. Muppets in Moscow explores post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, it provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains more relevant than ever today.

If you think your job is tough, today's episode will leave you shocked .Baila Sebrow, producer and host of The Definitive Rap Show sat down with American TV producer Natasha Lance Rogoff to discuss her memoir, Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia, which Rowman & Littlefield published recently. It chronicles Natasha's experience producing a Russian version of Sesame Street in post-Soviet Union Russia. In the process, Natasha, who is Jewish, and her colleagues faced the assassinations of their broadcast partners, a car bombing, and the takeover of the show's production office by Russian soldiers with AK47s. The book captures the occurrences of a disagreement creating a fun, educational children's television show against the violent backdrop of 1990s Moscow. It also relays the cultural clashes that threatened to derail Natasha's efforts to bring the Muppets and their idealistic values to millions of children across the former Soviet empire, including Ukraine. As one of the people on Natasha's team put it, “You are tasking us with developing this curriculum to help kids learn the skills they need for an open society, but how can we do it if we haven't lived in an open society?” The show is off the air now, but its legacy—the Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street) generation—remains. We see it in the Russians walking out of Russia because they oppose Putin's war and do not want to fight, and we see it on the Ukrainian side—the same age cohort, fighting for their freedom. Since its release, the book has been covered in The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, Vulture, and on MSNBC's “Morning Joe,” among others.  Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning American television producer, filmmaker, and journalist who has produced television news and documentaries in Russia, Ukraine, and the former Soviet Union for CBS, NBC, ABC, and PBS. Lance Rogoff executive produced Ulitsa Sezam, the Russian adaptation of Sesame Street, between 1993 and 1997. She also produced Plaza Sesamo in Mexico. In addition to her television work, Lance Rogoff has reported on Soviet underground culture as a documentary director and magazine and newspaper writer for major international media outlets.  Today, Lance Rogoff produces content for television and digital platforms and is the CEO and founder of an ed-tech company. An associate fellow in Harvard University's Art, Film, and Visual Studies department, she divides her time between Cambridge, MA and New York City. Natasha talked about what she envisioned for this production before things went crazy, and why she chose to produce a Sesame Street type of show.  Natasha described the most difficult part of this assignment, and the difficulties she faced working in Russia.  She explained why this production of a Russian Sesame Street got so dangerous, and how a backer who was going to come in with a million dollars for the show was blown up in his car.  The show concluded with Natasha's message of what she would most like people to understand about the Russian people and their country.  *WATCH THIS INTERVIEW

If you think your job is tough, today's episode will leave you shocked. Baila Sebrow, producer and host of The Definitive Rap Show sat down with American TV producer Natasha Lance Rogoff to discuss her memoir, Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia, which Rowman & Littlefield published recently. It chronicles Natasha's experience producing a Russian version of Sesame Street in post-Soviet Union Russia. In the process, Natasha, who is Jewish, and her colleagues faced the assassinations of their broadcast partners, a car bombing, and the takeover of the show's production office by Russian soldiers with AK47s. The book captures the occurrences of a disagreement creating a fun, educational children's television show against the violent backdrop of 1990s Moscow. It also relays the cultural clashes that threatened to derail Natasha's efforts to bring the Muppets and their idealistic values to millions of children across the former Soviet empire, including Ukraine. As one of the people on Natasha's team put it, “You are tasking us with developing this curriculum to help kids learn the skills they need for an open society, but how can we do it if we haven't lived in an open society?” The show is off the air now, but its legacy—the Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street) generation—remains. We see it in the Russians walking out of Russia because they oppose Putin's war and do not want to fight, and we see it on the Ukrainian side—the same age cohort, fighting for their freedom. Since its release, the book has been covered in The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, Vulture, and on MSNBC's “Morning Joe,” among others.  Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning American television producer, filmmaker, and journalist who has produced television news and documentaries in Russia, Ukraine, and the former Soviet Union for CBS, NBC, ABC, and PBS. Lance Rogoff executive produced Ulitsa Sezam, the Russian adaptation of Sesame Street, between 1993 and 1997. She also produced Plaza Sesamo in Mexico. In addition to her television work, Lance Rogoff has reported on Soviet underground culture as a documentary director and magazine and newspaper writer for major international media outlets.  Today, Lance Rogoff produces content for television and digital platforms and is the CEO and founder of an ed-tech company. An associate fellow in Harvard University's Art, Film, and Visual Studies department, she divides her time between Cambridge, MA and New York City. Natasha talked about what she envisioned for this production before things went crazy, and why she chose to produce a Sesame Street type of show.  Natasha described the most difficult part of this assignment, and the difficulties she faced working in Russia.  She explained why this production of a Russian Sesame Street got so dangerous, and how a backer who was going to come in with a million dollars for the show was blown up in his car.  The show concluded with Natasha's message of what she would most like people to understand about the Russian people and their country.  *WATCH THIS INTERVIEW

Brian and Lee talk with award-winning television producer Natasha Lance Rogoff about her book “Muppets in Moscow”. Find out the amazing true story how Sesame Street came to Russia. The post The Brian and Lee Show: Interview with Natasha Lance Rogoff appeared first on WWDB-AM.

Natasha Lance Rogoff discusses her new book, Muppets In Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story Of Making Sesame Street In Russia. Plus film critic Ty Burr!

Car bombings, assassinations and a military takeover: these are just some of the things American TV producer Natasha Lance Rogoff and her team faced when trying to bring The Muppets to the former USSR in the 1990s.After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Russia that emerged was a chaotic, sometimes violent free-for-all for western investors and oligarchs, swooping in to buy up businesses, natural resources and really anything they could. For regular Russians, they had to navigate a new, more free society and Natasha, a fluent speaker with experience in Russian TV, was drafted in to introduce The Muppets as the ambassadors to show children how to do that.An exercise in trying to introduce western values but also establish international relations with a former enemy, almost every aspect of the Russian Sesame Street- Uliza Sezam - was coloured by cultural clashes. Both nationalities had to learn to work together and better understand one another. What was created was a wholly Russian show, with new characters founded in traditional folklore and music informed by Russia's rich cultural history. The show was a huge success, beloved by children across the entire USSR and ran for 10 years into Putin's reign of power.Natasha joins Dan to tell this extraordinary story as they delve into the societal pressures faced by Russia after the Soviet Union and its relationship with the west which is still so relevant today.Her new book is called ‘Muppets in Moscow.'Archive of Sesame Street and Uliza Sezam courtesy of Sesame Workshop.Produced by Mariana Des Forges and mixed by Dougal Patmore.If you'd like to learn more, we have hundreds of history documentaries, ad-free podcasts and audiobooks at History Hit - subscribe to History Hit today!Download the History Hit app from the Google Play store.Download the History Hit app from the Apple Store. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the early 1990s, and the USSR is no more. An intrepid young American TV producer has been given a seemingly foolhardy task: bringing the beloved children's show Sesame Street to Russia, and the rest of the post-Soviet sphere. This is the premise of Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022)—a memoir from that aforementioned producer, Natasha Lance Rogoff. Amidst car bombings, soldiers kidnapping Elmo, and a collapsing ruble, Lance Rogoff assembles a team of Russian creatives to adapt Sesame Street into Ulitsa Sezam, as the show is known in Russian. While culture clashes ensue at first, they eventually give way to cross-cultural empathy, as Lance Rogoff poignantly illustrates in the book. It's a story that feels especially resonant in the present day, with Russia and the West again at opposite ends of a daunting geopolitical divide.  Lance Rogoff talks with the New Books Network's Anthony Kao about how she came to produce Sesame Street in Russia, and gives us a taste of the adventures contained within Muppets in Moscow. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, The Diplomat, and Eater.  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

It's the early 1990s, and the USSR is no more. An intrepid young American TV producer has been given a seemingly foolhardy task: bringing the beloved children's show Sesame Street to Russia, and the rest of the post-Soviet sphere. This is the premise of Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022)—a memoir from that aforementioned producer, Natasha Lance Rogoff. Amidst car bombings, soldiers kidnapping Elmo, and a collapsing ruble, Lance Rogoff assembles a team of Russian creatives to adapt Sesame Street into Ulitsa Sezam, as the show is known in Russian. While culture clashes ensue at first, they eventually give way to cross-cultural empathy, as Lance Rogoff poignantly illustrates in the book. It's a story that feels especially resonant in the present day, with Russia and the West again at opposite ends of a daunting geopolitical divide.  Lance Rogoff talks with the New Books Network's Anthony Kao about how she came to produce Sesame Street in Russia, and gives us a taste of the adventures contained within Muppets in Moscow. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, The Diplomat, and Eater.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

It's the early 1990s, and the USSR is no more. An intrepid young American TV producer has been given a seemingly foolhardy task: bringing the beloved children's show Sesame Street to Russia, and the rest of the post-Soviet sphere. This is the premise of Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022)—a memoir from that aforementioned producer, Natasha Lance Rogoff. Amidst car bombings, soldiers kidnapping Elmo, and a collapsing ruble, Lance Rogoff assembles a team of Russian creatives to adapt Sesame Street into Ulitsa Sezam, as the show is known in Russian. While culture clashes ensue at first, they eventually give way to cross-cultural empathy, as Lance Rogoff poignantly illustrates in the book. It's a story that feels especially resonant in the present day, with Russia and the West again at opposite ends of a daunting geopolitical divide.  Lance Rogoff talks with the New Books Network's Anthony Kao about how she came to produce Sesame Street in Russia, and gives us a taste of the adventures contained within Muppets in Moscow. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, The Diplomat, and Eater.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/performing-arts

It's the early 1990s, and the USSR is no more. An intrepid young American TV producer has been given a seemingly foolhardy task: bringing the beloved children's show Sesame Street to Russia, and the rest of the post-Soviet sphere. This is the premise of Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022)—a memoir from that aforementioned producer, Natasha Lance Rogoff. Amidst car bombings, soldiers kidnapping Elmo, and a collapsing ruble, Lance Rogoff assembles a team of Russian creatives to adapt Sesame Street into Ulitsa Sezam, as the show is known in Russian. While culture clashes ensue at first, they eventually give way to cross-cultural empathy, as Lance Rogoff poignantly illustrates in the book. It's a story that feels especially resonant in the present day, with Russia and the West again at opposite ends of a daunting geopolitical divide.  Lance Rogoff talks with the New Books Network's Anthony Kao about how she came to produce Sesame Street in Russia, and gives us a taste of the adventures contained within Muppets in Moscow. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, The Diplomat, and Eater.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/russian-studies

It's the early 1990s, and the USSR is no more. An intrepid young American TV producer has been given a seemingly foolhardy task: bringing the beloved children's show Sesame Street to Russia, and the rest of the post-Soviet sphere. This is the premise of Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022)—a memoir from that aforementioned producer, Natasha Lance Rogoff. Amidst car bombings, soldiers kidnapping Elmo, and a collapsing ruble, Lance Rogoff assembles a team of Russian creatives to adapt Sesame Street into Ulitsa Sezam, as the show is known in Russian. While culture clashes ensue at first, they eventually give way to cross-cultural empathy, as Lance Rogoff poignantly illustrates in the book. It's a story that feels especially resonant in the present day, with Russia and the West again at opposite ends of a daunting geopolitical divide.  Lance Rogoff talks with the New Books Network's Anthony Kao about how she came to produce Sesame Street in Russia, and gives us a taste of the adventures contained within Muppets in Moscow. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, The Diplomat, and Eater.  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

It's the early 1990s, and the USSR is no more. An intrepid young American TV producer has been given a seemingly foolhardy task: bringing the beloved children's show Sesame Street to Russia, and the rest of the post-Soviet sphere. This is the premise of Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022)—a memoir from that aforementioned producer, Natasha Lance Rogoff. Amidst car bombings, soldiers kidnapping Elmo, and a collapsing ruble, Lance Rogoff assembles a team of Russian creatives to adapt Sesame Street into Ulitsa Sezam, as the show is known in Russian. While culture clashes ensue at first, they eventually give way to cross-cultural empathy, as Lance Rogoff poignantly illustrates in the book. It's a story that feels especially resonant in the present day, with Russia and the West again at opposite ends of a daunting geopolitical divide.  Lance Rogoff talks with the New Books Network's Anthony Kao about how she came to produce Sesame Street in Russia, and gives us a taste of the adventures contained within Muppets in Moscow. Anthony Kao is a writer who intersects international affairs and cultural criticism. He founded/edits Cinema Escapist—a publication exploring the sociopolitical context behind global film and television—and also writes for outlets like The Guardian, The Diplomat, and Eater.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/communications

This week: Svitlana Morenets explains why Ukraine won't accept compromise in any form (00:56), Rana Mitter details Japan's plans for an anti-China coalition (05:43), and Mia Levitin reads her review of Muppets in Moscow by Natasha Lance Rogoff (13:17).  Produced and presented by Oscar Edmondson.

Between 1993 and 1997 Natasha Lance Rogoff, award-winning television producer and filmmaker, was the executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam, the Russian adaptation of Sesame Street. She joins us on Intelligence Squared to tell the extraordinary story of her determination to bring entertainment and democratic values to Russian children amid a backdrop of bombings, assassinations and a military pressure. Drawing on her new book, Muppets in Moscow, she shares her unique perspective of Russia's people, their culture and their complicated relationship with the West. Hosting this discussion is Carl Miller, Research Director at the Centre for the Analysis of Social Media at the think tank, Demos. ... Did you know that Intelligence Squared offers way more than podcasts? We've just launched a new online streaming platform Intelligence Squared+ and we'd love you to give it a go.  It's packed with more than 20 years' worth of video debates and conversations on the world's hottest topics. Tune in to live events, ask your questions or watch back on-demand totally ad-free with hours of discussion to dive into for just £14.99 a month. Visit intelligencesquaredplus.com to start watching today.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Natasha Lance Rogoff, Television Producer and Author on her latest book, “ Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia” Also, Concord High School Head Hockey Coach Duncan Walsh who is currently in his 33rd season having won nine Division One State Championships including three in a row.

Foreign language film and television has been dominating our screens. With films such RRR (India) making history as the first foreign language film to win the Best Original Song category at this year's Golden Globes, and Parasite (South Korea) scooping up all the major awards in 2020. To talk about the rise in foreign language film and television, filmmaker Natasha Lance Rogoff joins host Ben Monro-Davies, and shares the fascinating tale of how she brought Sesame Street to post-communist Russia. In the wake of political tensions, she talks about navigating the cultural clashes colouring nearly every aspect of the production and how she adapted the iconic series for Russian audiences. Her new book Muppets in Moscow hits UK bookshelves this month.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western idealistic values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow, Natasha Lance Rogoff brings the story to life. Lance Rogoff, a young American television producer fluent in Russian, was chosen to lead a crew of hundreds of American and Russian artists, producers, educators, writers, and puppeteers to create the Russian adaptation. During the production, against the backdrop of bombings and the assassination of her Russian broadcast partners, Lance Rogoff and the team remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia. In her book, she illuminates how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production, from the show's educational framework to scriptwriting to the new Russian Muppets themselves, often pitting Sesame Street's Western values against nearly four centuries of Russian thought. In spite of the challenges, the show would go on to become a major hit, airing for over a decade.

Vicky Pattison joins Nikki Bedi and Richard Coles. The podcaster and author was Crowned Queen of the Jungle in 2015. Gaining fame initially through the reality TV show Geordie Shore, Vicky reflects on the ups and downs of her life in the public eye and shares her experiences in her latest book The Secret to Happy. George Linnane is a caver who was rescued by 300 volunteers after 54 hours underground. One of those volunteers was Maxine Bateman. They discuss what happened and how George is recovering just over a year after the event. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television producer. She has written, directed and produced numerous documentaries and children's television shows. Her book ‘Muppets in Moscow' is about the challenges and successes of bringing Sesame Street to post-communist Russia in the 1990s. George Takei chooses his Inheritance Tracks: Mona Lisa by Nat King Cole and Don't Fence Me In by Gene Autry. George Takei's Allegiance is at the Charing Cross Theatre in London until the 8th April. Radio 1's Matt Edmondson says he has spent his whole life trying to get thoughts out of his brain into the real world. So far, his interests have led him to broadcasting, magic, creating board games, TV formats and music. If any of the issues we've touched on during the programme affect you or someone you know please go to bbc.co.uk/actionline where you'll find information and support. Producer: Claire Bartleet

For our debut show of 2023, we welcome American TV producer Natasha Lance Rogoff to discuss her memoir, Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia, which Rowman & Littlefield published recently. It chronicles Natasha's experience producing a Russian version of Sesame Street in post-Soviet Union Russia. It falls under the category of “And you thought your job was tough.” Available now on voiceamerica.com, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

On this edition of Parallax Views, author, filmmaker, and TV producer Natasha Lance Rogoff joins us to discuss her new book Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia. Natasha was tasked with making the Russian version of Sesame Street, called Ulitsa Sezam, after the fall of the Soviet Union. The show faced many struggles as Russia was dealing with what it would become in the Soviet era. Additionally the country was dealing with incredible economic inequality, assassinations, car bombings, and communists who did not want Russia to transition to a capitalist system. Despite this, Ulitsa Sezam ended up being a hit amongst Russian children and originally ran from 1996 to 2007. That isn't, however, to say that it's road to success was an easy one. As Rogoff details, there were many cultural clashes that occurred during its making that had to be overcome. In this course of our conversation Rogoff and I discuss: - Rogoff's time in the Soviet Union prior to Ulitsa Sezam, her documentary Russia for Sale: The Rough Road to Capitalism, and her reporting on underground LGBTQ+ culture in the Soviet Union - The role of then Senator Joe Biden, Congress, and USAID (United States Agency for International Development) in the creation/making of Ulitsa Sezam; the show as a way to spread Western ideals like individualism, diversity, inclusivity, free-market capitalism, etc. - The issues that arised from wanting to show children in wheelchairs and disabilities on the show; and the way in which this led to a transformative, emotional moment for all involved in Ulitsa Sezam - The issue of music in Ulitsa Sezam; fear of change; proud of Russia's musical heritage; wanting to showcase different and eclectic forms on the show - Cultural exchange between the U.S. and Russia; U.S. pop culture demonization of Russia; overcoming cultural differences - An instance in which Ulitsa Sezam was going to play a really downbeat song that was seen as more in line with traditional Russian culture; how children reacted to a different, more upbeat song in contrast; Russian children singing WWII songs - The Ulitsa Sezam character Zeliboba (pictured below) Zeliboba from Ulitsa Sezam - The biggest obstacles in making the show; violence, culture clashes, and financial issues; overcoming the deaths of Natasha's confidants in Russia while making the show (there were assassination, car bombings, etc.) -  The emotional bond between those who were involved in making the show; the show brought together Russian, Ukrainians, Armenians, and others in collaboration; hundreds of freelancers; the project was unprecendented at the time; why Natasha stuck with the project even during the toughest times - Natasha's close friend Leonid Zagalsky, an investigative journalist in Russia, and his work with Natasha - Returning to Russia during the process of writing the book and the melancholy of that experience - The recent culture wars in the U.S. over Sesame Street and potential parallels with culture clashes Natasha saw in Russia; free speech and diversity of opinion; the unregulated internet - Approaching Russian society through the lens of the Muppets; how doing so offers a different perspective than, for example, a foreign policy lens; fostering empathy and the book's attempt to give deeper emotional understanding of Russian people and culture - One of the lessons from the book: the West cannot expect other societies to mirror their own; a need for a certain openness about other societies - And much, much more!

For our debut show of 2023, we welcome American TV producer Natasha Lance Rogoff to discuss her memoir, Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia, which Rowman & Littlefield published recently. It chronicles Natasha's experience producing a Russian version of Sesame Street in post-Soviet Union Russia. It falls under the category of “And you thought your job was tough.” Available now on voiceamerica.com, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

Samantha CardThe Athlete AdvantageSuccess Beyond Game Day™https://samanthacard.com/mentor-athletes-the-athlete-advantage/Natasha Lance Rogoff https://www.natashalancerogoff.com/Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1538161281/Dr. Nina Meyerhof and Janice HallOne Humanity Institutehttps://onehumanity.institute/

Matt Crawford speaks with Natasha Lance Rogoff about her book: Muppets in Moscow. Most of us have grown up watching Sesame Street and learning lessons through their gentle explanations and expert production by the Sesame Workshop. This is a whole other side of the Muppets as western ambassadors. Rogoff recounts her and her teams struggle to bring this beloved program to Russia in the early 1990's. The Berlin Wall had just fallen, and tensions were high, amidst bombings, assassinations and military takeovers of their production office, her and her team were risking everything to bring the Muppets to Moscow. A personal read that includes Rogoff's struggle to balance a new marriage and pregnancy while fighting for this show because she loved the Russian culture and people so. This book gives us valuable insight into diplomacy and how it worked in Russia and in my opinion how it should be used again. We need it now more than ever.

   December 19, 2022 - How did Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, and the rest of the Sesame Street expand their neighborhood to Moscow after the collapse of the USSR? In this episode, we meet the woman who adapted a beloved American TV show for an audience newly freed from behind the Iron Curtain. TV producer and filmmaker Natasha Lance Rogoff who brings us, “Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia.” It's the true story of the Soviet Union tearing down its walls and a reborn Russia opening its doors to the best the West had to offer -- despite assassinations, armed attacks, and even the kidnapping of Elmo at the barrel of AK-47s. Visit her at NatashaLanceRogoff.com, where you can navigate through to her social media accounts on all the major platforms, including @LanceRogoff on Twitter.

David Alfrey, MD & Natasha Lance Rogoff

David Alfrey, MD & Natasha Lance Rogoff

When the Soviet Union fell, the US poured billions into Russia to help its transition into Western-style democracy. But how could the free-market and capitalist values be sold to ordinary Russians who'd spent decades living by communist doctrine? The answer - according to American politicians - was to be found in the beloved children's TV show, Sesame Street. But the process of getting Ulitsa Sezam, as it was called in Russia, off the ground was anything but straightforward. There was trouble with financing and finding a broadcaster, assassinations, an armed takeover of their offices - and the kidnapping of Elmo. The Muppet-style puppets didn't go down so well at first - and the initial storylines were a bit grim - D for Depression anyone? Yet Ulitsa Sezam went on to become a major hit and aired for over a decade. Natasha Lance Rogoff was its executive producer and has written a book about her experience called Muppets in Moscow: The unexpected crazy true story of making Sesame Street in Russia.

To see it is one thing. To live is another...

To see it is one thing. To live is another...

To see it is one thing. To live is another...

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, against a backdrop of massive cultural shifts, violence and political upheaval, Natasha Lance Rogoff took on the challenge of creating a program that had never existed before, Ulitsa Sezam, a Russian version of Sesame Street.  This new children's television program, produced by a Russian-American team, was designed to introduce children into the world of learning in a very joyful way.  What started as an attempt to entertain and educate millions of children across the former U.S.S.R., encouraging tolerance and inclusion, spiraled into the astonishing true story of culture clashes shaping all aspects of production. On the set, the production team navigated conflicts about topics like diversity, class, and even the notion of encouraging children's optimism about the future. Meanwhile, off the set, there were car bombings, assassinations of the show's top broadcast partners, and hostile takeovers of the production studios.  Muppets in Moscow is as much about the work that went into the show and how rewarding it was to bring such a popular American program to the former U.S.S.R., as it is about navigating the Russian television landscape in the 1990s and stretching the limits of freedom of expression in a society unaccustomed to such freedoms.  While Ulitsa Sezam ended in 2007 along with many other independently produced programs shut down by Putin's government, a generation of Russian children grew up watching it. The show's history offers a valuable perspective of Russia and its people that remains relevant today. Join us as Natasha Lance Rogoff sheds light on the core values and beliefs that shaped Russia during this tumultuous period and the clashes that continue to play out today between Putin's Russia and the West. SPEAKERS Natasha Lance Rogoff Journalist; Television Producer; Filmmaker; Author, Muppets in Moscow Leslie Dixon Screenwriter; Film Producer—Moderator In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are currently hosting all of our live programming via YouTube live stream. This program was recorded via video conference on November 17th, 2022 by the Commonwealth Club of California. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the early 1990's, as the Soviet regime fell, folks at the Children's Television Workshop believed it was the ideal time to launch a Russian 'Sesame Street.' The person chosen to head up the project, TV producer and filmmaker Natasha Lance Rogoff, has written a memoir about the myriad challenges she and her colleagues faced in trying to create the show. Her book is "Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected, Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Moscow."

After the fall of the Soviet Union, then-Senator Joe Biden spearheaded an effort in Congress to send the beloved show, "Sesame Street", to Russia.  The move was part of a larger aid package designed to help with education reform and win over the hearts and minds of Russian youth.  Natasha Lance Rogoff was hired as the executive producer of "Ulitsa Sezam" and was at the center of the show's production. She quickly found out that bringing this classic child's program to the former Communist nation would prove both challenging ... and deadly. Natasha Lance Rogoff recently joined FOX News Rundown Chris Foster to discuss her book, 'Muppets in Moscow.' She detailed how she and her partners had to deal with cultural conflicts, corruption, censorship, and even violence.  Due to time limitations, we could not include all of the conversation in our original segment. On the FOX News Rundown Extra, you will hear our entire interview with Natasha Lance Rogoff and learn more about the incredible story of "Ulitsa Sezam." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the fall of the Soviet Union, then-Senator Joe Biden spearheaded an effort in Congress to send the beloved show, "Sesame Street", to Russia.  The move was part of a larger aid package designed to help with education reform and win over the hearts and minds of Russian youth.  Natasha Lance Rogoff was hired as the executive producer of "Ulitsa Sezam" and was at the center of the show's production. She quickly found out that bringing this classic child's program to the former Communist nation would prove both challenging ... and deadly. Natasha Lance Rogoff recently joined FOX News Rundown Chris Foster to discuss her book, 'Muppets in Moscow.' She detailed how she and her partners had to deal with cultural conflicts, corruption, censorship, and even violence.  Due to time limitations, we could not include all of the conversation in our original segment. On the FOX News Rundown Extra, you will hear our entire interview with Natasha Lance Rogoff and learn more about the incredible story of "Ulitsa Sezam." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the fall of the Soviet Union, then-Senator Joe Biden spearheaded an effort in Congress to send the beloved show, "Sesame Street", to Russia.  The move was part of a larger aid package designed to help with education reform and win over the hearts and minds of Russian youth.  Natasha Lance Rogoff was hired as the executive producer of "Ulitsa Sezam" and was at the center of the show's production. She quickly found out that bringing this classic child's program to the former Communist nation would prove both challenging ... and deadly. Natasha Lance Rogoff recently joined FOX News Rundown Chris Foster to discuss her book, 'Muppets in Moscow.' She detailed how she and her partners had to deal with cultural conflicts, corruption, censorship, and even violence.  Due to time limitations, we could not include all of the conversation in our original segment. On the FOX News Rundown Extra, you will hear our entire interview with Natasha Lance Rogoff and learn more about the incredible story of "Ulitsa Sezam." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many Americans projected a red wave would sweep across America this election cycle as Republicans campaigned hard on top issues like inflation and crime. However, election results have depicted a much different picture thus far - with Democrats projected to take the Senate and the GOP potentially winning only a slim majority in the House. Though, in deep-blue New York, a different story is being told about the Republican Party, as four Republican congressional candidates were able to flip their traditionally blue districts to red. Former fire chief and NYPD Detective Anthony D'Esposito was among those who won, flipping New York's 4th Congressional district red in Nassau County. He joins to explain how garnering votes from Democrats and Independents played a role in his win, why he believes Lee Zeldin's 'tremendous race' for governor helped Republican candidates across New York, and how he plans to use his experiences as a first responder when he arrives in Washington. After the fall of the Soviet Union, then-Senator Joe Biden spearheaded an effort among Congress to send the beloved show, "Sesame Street", to Russia. The move was part of a larger aid package designed to help with education reform and win over the hearts and minds of Russian youth. Natasha Lance Rogoff was hired as the executive producer of "Ulitsa Sezam" and was at the center of the show's production. She joins the Rundown to discuss her book, Muppets in Moscow, and the inspiring and dangerous story of bringing the show to Russia. Plus, commentary from James Carafano, Heritage Foundation's Vice President for Foreign & Security policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many Americans projected a red wave would sweep across America this election cycle as Republicans campaigned hard on top issues like inflation and crime. However, election results have depicted a much different picture thus far - with Democrats projected to take the Senate and the GOP potentially winning only a slim majority in the House. Though, in deep-blue New York, a different story is being told about the Republican Party, as four Republican congressional candidates were able to flip their traditionally blue districts to red. Former fire chief and NYPD Detective Anthony D'Esposito was among those who won, flipping New York's 4th Congressional district red in Nassau County. He joins to explain how garnering votes from Democrats and Independents played a role in his win, why he believes Lee Zeldin's 'tremendous race' for governor helped Republican candidates across New York, and how he plans to use his experiences as a first responder when he arrives in Washington. After the fall of the Soviet Union, then-Senator Joe Biden spearheaded an effort among Congress to send the beloved show, "Sesame Street", to Russia. The move was part of a larger aid package designed to help with education reform and win over the hearts and minds of Russian youth. Natasha Lance Rogoff was hired as the executive producer of "Ulitsa Sezam" and was at the center of the show's production. She joins the Rundown to discuss her book, Muppets in Moscow, and the inspiring and dangerous story of bringing the show to Russia. Plus, commentary from James Carafano, Heritage Foundation's Vice President for Foreign & Security policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many Americans projected a red wave would sweep across America this election cycle as Republicans campaigned hard on top issues like inflation and crime. However, election results have depicted a much different picture thus far - with Democrats projected to take the Senate and the GOP potentially winning only a slim majority in the House. Though, in deep-blue New York, a different story is being told about the Republican Party, as four Republican congressional candidates were able to flip their traditionally blue districts to red. Former fire chief and NYPD Detective Anthony D'Esposito was among those who won, flipping New York's 4th Congressional district red in Nassau County. He joins to explain how garnering votes from Democrats and Independents played a role in his win, why he believes Lee Zeldin's 'tremendous race' for governor helped Republican candidates across New York, and how he plans to use his experiences as a first responder when he arrives in Washington. After the fall of the Soviet Union, then-Senator Joe Biden spearheaded an effort among Congress to send the beloved show, "Sesame Street", to Russia. The move was part of a larger aid package designed to help with education reform and win over the hearts and minds of Russian youth. Natasha Lance Rogoff was hired as the executive producer of "Ulitsa Sezam" and was at the center of the show's production. She joins the Rundown to discuss her book, Muppets in Moscow, and the inspiring and dangerous story of bringing the show to Russia. Plus, commentary from James Carafano, Heritage Foundation's Vice President for Foreign & Security policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. 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

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Award-winning television producer Natasha Lance Rogoff on her book "Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia." Original air date 02 November 2022. The book was published on 17 October 2022.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/performing-arts

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/russian-studies

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. 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

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/communications

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the timing appeared perfect to bring Sesame Street to millions of children living in the former Soviet Union. With the Muppets envisioned as ideal ambassadors of Western values, no one anticipated just how challenging and dangerous this would prove to be. In Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), Natasha Lance Rogoff brings this gripping tale to life. Amidst bombings, assassinations, and a military takeover of the production office, Lance Rogoff and the talented Moscow team of artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and puppeteers remained determined to bring laughter, learning, and a new way of seeing the world to children in Russia, Ukraine and across the former Soviet empire. With a sharp wit and compassion for her colleagues, Lance Rogoff observes how cultural clashes colored nearly every aspect of the production—from the show's educational framework to writing comedy to the new Russian Muppets themselves—despite the team's common goal. Brimming with insight and nuance, Muppets in Moscow skillfully explores the post-Soviet societal tensions that continue to thwart the Russian people's efforts to create a better future for their country. More than just a story of a children's show, this book provides a valuable perspective of Russia's people, their culture, and their complicated relationship with the West that remains relevant even today. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning television director, producer and writer of more than 25 years. Her previous credits include executive producer of Ulitsa Sezam (Sesame Street in Russia) and producer of Plaza Sesamo (Sesame Street in Mexico.) After studying at the Leningrad State University, she wrote about Soviet underground culture, as well as one of the earliest exposé of Soviet government persecution of the Russian LGBTQ community in the San Francisco Chronicle. Her 1985 film, Rock Around the Kremlin, about underground rock artists, aired on ABC TV's “20/20. Lance Rogoff embedded herself with hardline Russian communist fascists for two years, filming “Russia for Sale” which aired on ABC's Nightline with Ted Koppel the night of the failed 1991 coup that ended the Soviet Union. She is now an Associate in the Art, Film and Visual Studies Department at Harvard University and lives between Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City. You can find her on Instagram and Twitter and follow the book on Facebook.  Rebekah Buchanan is a Professor of English and Director of English Education at Western Illinois University. Her research focuses on feminism, activism, and literacy practices in youth culture, specifically through zines and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/popular-culture

Award-winning television producer and documentary filmmaker Natasha Lance Rogoff chats with Trey Elling about MUPPETS IN MOSCOW: THE UNEXPECTED CRAZY TRUE STORY OF MAKING SESAME STREET IN RUSSIA. Topics include: Why Sesame Street asked her to bring the show to Russia (2:00) Starting with getting past Russia's gatekeepers (8:29) Finally finding Russian financing (14:42) The difficulty of convincing Russians to diversify the show's music (17:07) The Russian production team not understanding America's racism (23:59) Russia's culture and values worth exposing to its children with Sesame Street (30:11) Important details for the Russian Sesame Street neighborhood (39:05) The sadness involved with casting Russian child actors (43:41) Creating the Russia-specific Muppet puppets (47:27) Finally getting to the television premiere in October 1996 (52:26) The lasting legacy of Russian Sesame Street (54:41)

This time John talks about the death of the Durham Report as it finally fizzles out AND the murder of Marco Rubio on the debate stage by Senator Val Demings. He then interviews Natasha Lance Rogoff author of “Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia". Next John takes a call from Elizabeth in Los Angeles on anger vs outrage in politics. And finally some good news for Dems as the midterm elections begin in some states.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hosted by Andrew Keen, Keen On features conversations with some of the world's leading thinkers and writers about the economic, political, and technological issues being discussed in the news, right now. In this episode, Andrew is joined by Natasha Lance Rogoff, author of Muppets in Moscow: The Unexpected Crazy True Story of Making Sesame Street in Russia. Natasha Lance Rogoff is an award-winning American television producer, filmmaker, and journalist of television news and documentaries in Russia, Ukraine, and the former Soviet Union for NBC, ABC, and PBS. Lance Rogoff executive produced Ulitsa Sezam, the Russian adaptation of Sesame Street, between 1993 and 1997. She also produced Plaza Sesamo in Mexico. In addition to her television work, Lance Rogoff has reported on Soviet underground culture as a documentary director and magazine and newspaper writer for major international media outlets. Today, Lance Rogoff creates current affairs videos and is the CEO and founder of an ed-tech company that produces KickinNutrition.TV, a children's cooking and nutrition program. She is an associate fellow at Harvard University's Art, Film, and Visual Studies department. Lance Rogoff lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts and New York City. Author website: www.natashalancerogoff.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices