Podcasts about Thailand

I'm your China travel guide, Missionary Ben. Follow me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I share a new Chinese city or county to pray for every single day. Please send any questions or comments to our new, secure email: chinacompass@privacyport.com. You can also find China Compass on Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/c/chinacompass), which allows for donations as well as podcast “collections.” Last but not least, nearly everything else we are involved in can be found at PrayGiveGo.us! Why the Prison Pulpit? The goal is to remind people to pray for persecuted believers as Hebrews 13:3 teaches: “Remember those who are in prison, as bound with them.” We’ve looked at Wang Yi and Early Rain Church’s writings in the aftermath of their arrest and attack in 2018, but I’ve also regularly turned to other persecuted ministers who have gone before, such as Richard Wurmbrand, to give us a voice literally from prison. This week we are at a camp in Thailand for MKs; that is, missionary kids. Our youngest daughter is participating and it strikes me how fast the time has gone… I crossposted today's podcast to my Substack, if you'd like my notes: ChinaCall.Substack.com Follow China Compass Thank you for listening! Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! There’s also a donation link at PrayforChina.us if you’d like to support our China ministry. For everything else, visit PrayGiveGo.us. Hebrews 13:3: Remember those who are in prison, “as bound with them”!

If you could invent a new kind of school what would it look like? What skills would you teach children, and how would the school be run?On this edition of People Fixing The World we visit the Mechai Pattana School in Thailand which was founded by the campaigner Mechai Viravaidya in 2008 on principles of charity and leadership. Children are responsible for every aspect of running the school, from buying food for the kitchens to disciplining fellow students and even recruiting new staff.The children also run their own businesses, and perform several hours of community service every week. Many of the students come from underprivileged backgrounds, but their school fees are “paid” by planting 800 trees a year, together with their families.The idea is for the school to produce “change-makers” – could it be a model for others to follow?Presenter: Myra Anubi Producer/reporter: William Kremer Series Producer: Jon Bithrey Editor: Tom Bigwood Sound mix: Annie Gardiner

We're sharing our experiences from five amazing days in Chiang Mai, Thailand. In this episode, we talk about the city's rich history, cultural attractions, and travel tips, including the best temples to visit, local cuisine, and unique experiences like visiting Tiger Kingdom, participating in a cooking class, and an overnight jungle trek adventure.Download our ⁠5 Days in Chiang Mai Itinerary⁠ to take this exact same trip!When visiting Chang Mai, do not forget to download an eSim from ⁠⁠Airalo⁠⁠ and pack ⁠⁠insect repellent⁠⁠, a ⁠⁠rechargeable powerbank⁠⁠, and this ⁠⁠foldable backpack ⁠really came in handy!We recommend staying where we stayed at the ⁠Away Chiang Mai Thapae Resort A Vegan Retreat⁠ , but other good options are ⁠Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts⁠ or the ⁠Coucou Hotel⁠In this episode we did a ⁠Thai Farm Cooking Class ⁠and a ⁠Jungle Trek⁠ (2 days/1 night) and HIGHLY recommend both!Find great flight deals to Chiang Mai, and everywhere else, by signing up for ⁠⁠⁠⁠Thrifty Traveler Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get flight deals sent straight to your inbox. Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Shop: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trip Itineraries⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Storefront ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and contact us at travelsquadpodcast@gmail.com to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.

Pollyanna and Jojo return for the Spring 2026 premiere to discuss Jojo's over-budget cottage renovation and Pollyanna's food-poisoning disaster in Thailand. They dive into patriarchal beauty shaming, cosmetic tweaks, and a horrific discovery involving Jojo's cat. The duo debates the merits of pea milk and mushroom gummies while declaring one home design trend officially 'out'. This episode is proudly sponsored by Oka. Listeners can use the code Oka Spring 15 for a 15% discount on their Spring/Summer 2026 collection. www.oka.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we'll be talking about new airport screening policies rolling out imminently, how Thailand ranks amid global taxi scam complaints, and a little later a foreign travelers viral complaints about rude treatment in Thailand has elicited strong reactions online.

Edoardo Molinari er statistikguruen for det europæiske Ryder Cup-hold. Han og hans team laver statistik for fire af de bedste danske golfspillere og et hav af andre verdensstjerner. Vi har mødt ham til en snak (1:01:30) om hans egen karriere, om statistik, hvad DU skal blive bedre til og om Ryder Cup. Jacob Skov Olesen tog endnu et topresultat, og han bevæger sig stille og roligt mod toppen af ranglisten. Det samme gjorde Nanna Koerstz Madsen, der brændte banen af i Thailand og endte i top-5. ECCO Touren ruller i Spanien, Amstrup er på plads dernede, flere danske damer er i Australien, og så var Thomas Bjørn med helt fremme på den europæiske seniortour i Spanien. Golf Showet er produceret i samarbejde med https://golfexperten.dk og https://dmgreenkeeping.dk

Dalam kunjungan ini, Ketua Komisi Empat, Siti Hediati Hariyadi atau Titi Soeharto, mengapresiasi keberhasilan petani lokal yang mampu menembus pasar ekspor melalui produk olahan turunan bawang merah.Perusahaan ini tidak hanya menjual bawang mentah, namun telah berhasil melakukan uji coba produksi tepung bawang hingga pasta bawang yang kini merambah pasar internasional. Saat ini, bawang merah Brebes tercatat rutin memenuhi pasar Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, hingga Singapura.Kunjungan ini turut didampingi oleh Wakil Direktur Utama Perum Bulog dan Bupati Brebes sebagai bentuk sinergi antara legislatif dan eksekutif dalam menjaga stabilitas harga bawang merah di tingkat petani.

It is Victory Monday for Golf's Preeminent Gambling Podcast! Andy returns from vacation and immediately gives Brendan his flowers for picking Jacob Bridgeman to win the Genesis Invitational. PJ issues an apology for laughing at Brendan's belief in The Bridgeman, who cashed 100-1 tickets for bettors everywhere. Andy and Brendan recap the weekend at Riviera and shine a light on Bridgemans path to the PGA Tour and his first career victory. Kevin Van Valkenburg joins from the on-site media center in LA to share some observations from the ground, touching on Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Aldrich Potgieter, and more. Andy, Brendan, and Kevin also discuss the online pushback against Riviera after the pros tore up a soft course this week after all the rain on Thursday. After debating whether there should be a "Shotgun Start Book Club," there's a brief Tiger Woods conversation amongst the group, with everyone believing that he will, in fact, play on the Champions Tour in 2026. Brendan is convinced that Tiger will be playing the Masters, too! Andy moves to ban Spider putters on the PGA Tour before recapping the rest of the week in pro golf, including the Magical Kenya Open and Jeeno Thitikul's first-ever win in Thailand. In news, the DP World Tour has settled its fines with almost all of the eligible LIV players... except for Jon Rahm. Andy and Brendan wonder if this means his 2027 Ryder Cup status is truly in doubt as even Tyrrell Hatton decided to cut the check. PJ and Andy are both in Florida for the big Ballfrogs match on Monday night, but it remains to be seen if Brendan will make it down south through the snow. Stay tuned for some in-person TGL takeaways on Wednesday's episode!

Welcome back to the Magician On Duty Journey Series! Magician On Duty welcomes a new chapter in its Journey Series with a deeply evocative episode from COTU (Citizen of the Universe) (@cotusounds) — a DJ and producer whose work treats electronic music less as genre and more as lived experience. COTU's story reads like liner notes written in motion. Born in the Far East of Russia, shaped by distance and displacement, he carries the worldview of a true outsider — curious, searching, and untethered. His musical awakening came not in a studio, but at dawn: New Year's Day 2017, at Thailand's SIMIRAM Festival on Koh Phangan. A wooden dance floor hovered above the sea, visuals rippled across stone, fire dancers moved against the dark, and a violin cut through the air as the sun rose. It was there, in that fleeting convergence of sound, light, and human connection, that music revealed itself not as entertainment, but as transformation. That revelation followed him west. In the United States, during a period marked by personal upheaval, COTU turned to DJing as a form of healing. What emerged was a sound rooted in intention — organic house, melodic techno, indie dance, downtempo — woven together with the patience of a narrator rather than the urgency of a performer. His sets unfold slowly, rewarding attention, blurring the line between the introspective and the ecstatic. Each mix is a passage through emotional terrain, guided by restraint, tension, and release. From underground warehouses and intimate club rooms to desert festivals and legendary countercultural gatherings, COTU has carried this ethos across continents. His presence is unforced, his selections deliberate — the kind of DJ who trusts silence as much as sound, and atmosphere as much as momentum. Radio platforms and global tastemakers have embraced his mixes for that very reason: they feel lived-in, cinematic, and quietly radical in their refusal to rush. In 2024, COTU extended this narrative into original production, releasing his own music and collaborating with like-minded artists while contributing remixes that deepen, rather than disrupt, the emotional arc of the source material. His productions echo the same philosophy as his DJ work — subtle, textured, and guided by feeling rather than formula. This new Magician On Duty Journey Series episode distills COTU's artistic identity into a single, fluid statement. It's a mix that invites surrender rather than spectacle — a slow-burn voyage designed for late nights, long drives, and inward moments. Less a peak-time declaration, more a reminder: the most powerful journeys happen when the music listens back. Follow COTU here: https://www.instagram.com/cotumusic https://soundcloud.com/cotusounds linktr.ee/cotumusic

We sit down with Ron of Buya Toys to trace a wild pivot from gaming industry 3D artist to full-time music-inspired toy maker in Thailand. Growing up in the Middle East, art became survival, identity, and escape. After losing his job, Ron found clarity through music, The Artist's Way, and sculpting musicians like Doechii, Tyler, JID, and SZA into bold, stylized figures. We unpack launching Buya just seven months ago, shutting down a Kickstarter mid-run, pivoting to preorders, and selling out. This episode is about trusting your gut, building from heartbreak, and turning fandom into form.On Instagram: @buya_toysThis Episode is Sponsored by: Empire Blisters – Your go-to source for blister packaging! With 19+ styles and bundle deals, they've got everything you need to make your toys shine. Use code TOYSONTAP10 at checkout for 10% off. Patreon members get 20% off another reason to join!Support the Show on Patreon Unlock exclusive episodes, early access, and behind-the-scenes content: patreon.com/toysontapThanks to Our SupportersRate & Review the Show! Leave a rating and review wherever you listen it's the best way to help Toys on Tap grow!

Mya is stepping out of the studio and into the heart of the action. This week, we're bringing you a special field report from “She Ties”, an event dedicated exclusively to female riggers and male bottoms. Since Fox (male rigger) and Mya (female bottom) can't speak to this dynamic from personal experience, we're passing the mic to the community. Featuring atmospheric audio recorded on-site, we hear from a global roster of voices—hailing from Thailand and Taiwan to the UK and Russia. What's inside: - The Nuance: Why individual connection always trumps the binary. - The Physicality: Practical tips for navigating different body types and mechanics. - The Social Shift: Breaking down the "big spoon/little spoon" stigma in the rope scene. The Interview Guest List: - Riggers: HuaHua, Yada Kinabalu, Noir_fix, May, Sasha - Bottoms: Pang, Co, Ratta - Spectators: Gorgone and Sawyer A quick note: The audio is live and "in the wild"—forgive the background noise, but enjoy the energy!

Today we'll be talking about the new supermajority coalition led by Prime Minister Anutin and what that means for the future of policy creation, poverty rates in Thailand climbing despite economic growth signals, and later we have some classic Thaiger tales in the form of lewd acts on beaches, foreign laughing gas smugglers, and a monk in hot water after love guru-ing multiple women.

From hotels on petrol (gas) station forecourts in Thailand to Singapore's ingenious tourism match-making scheme... On our fast-paced Start The Week show, Gary and Hannah stop over in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, the Philippines and India in search of the answers to travel's big questions. We begin by discussing ASEAN representation on the Gaza Board of Peace, aircraft orders tied to tariff negotiations and whether the Indonesia-US trade deals still stands. Plus, can Malaysia become "Asia Pacific's most connected nation" by 2030? Why is Farm Tourism sowing collaborative seeds in the Philippines? And Why is Vietnam emerging as a hot vegetarian destination for Indian tourists? Plus, why are we talking about Aunties Not Algorithms? And will more South East Asian countries convert petrol (gas) stations into hotels as the region transitions to EVs?

In diesem Podcast spricht Antonijo Lovric über seine Erfahrungen im Muay Thai, seine Sparring-Sessions mit Yuki Yoza und seine Reise als Kämpfer. Er teilt Einblicke in sein Training im Suksoi Gym in Aachen, seine Vorbereitungen auf kommende Kämpfe und seine Ziele im internationalen Kampfsport. Antonijo reflektiert über die kulturellen Unterschiede zwischen Japan und Thailand im Kampfsport und die Bedeutung von Muay Thai in seinem Leben.Er sieht sich als talentierten Kämpfer, der noch nicht genug Bekanntheit hat.Sein Vater ist der Inhaber des Suksoi Gyms, was ihm viele Vorteile bietet.Er hat bereits in Thailand und Japan gekämpft und plant, dort weiter zu trainieren.Antonijo glaubt, dass die Muay Thai Szene in Deutschland sich weiterentwickelt.Er hat keine Hobbys außer dem Training und dem Kämpfen.Er möchte in Zukunft Titel gewinnen und seinen Status im Kampfsport aufbauen.Die Unterstützung seiner Familie ist ihm sehr wichtig.Er hat eine klare Vorstellung davon, was Muay Thai für ihn bedeutet.Hörbar ab 24.02.26 au allen bekannten Plattformen. @antonijolovric@suksoi_gym____________________________________________________www.teeptalkmedia.dewww.khunpon.de Code TEEP10 für 10% Rabatt www.okami-fightgear.com Code TEEP15 für 15% rabattwww.muaythai-camp.com Promocode 'podcast'

Students at several universities in Iran have staged anti-government protests - the first on this scale since January's deadly crackdown. It's not immediately clear whether any demonstrators were arrested on Saturday. Also: President Trump says he's increasing his worldwide trade tariff to fifteen per cent. As the fourth anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war approaches, our reporter in Moscow looks at how the country has changed. A deadly virus has wiped out more than seventy captive tigers in Thailand, prompting anger from animal rights campaigners. There's controversy at the Berlin film festival after comments from the organisers about politics. And how boring are draws in a football match - Japan experiments with getting rid of them in favour of penalty shoot-outs.The Global News Podcast brings you the breaking news you need to hear, as it happens. Listen for the latest headlines and current affairs from around the world. Politics, economics, climate, business, technology, health - we cover it all with expert analysis and insight.Get the news that matters, delivered twice a day on weekdays and daily at weekends, plus special bonus episodes reacting to urgent breaking stories. Follow or subscribe now and never miss a moment. Get in touch: globalpodcast@bbc.co.uk

The White Lotus: Season 3, Episode 8 "Amor Fati" On their last night in Thailand, Laurie, Jaclyn, and Kate are forced to deal with the changes in their friendship; Belinda and Zion negotiate a major deal; Timothy comes up with a shocking plan for his family. Feedback : blackgirlcouch@gmail.com  (audio/written) Tumblr: blackgirlcouch Youtube: ChristinaBCG Instagram: @blackgirlcouch

World news in 7 minutes. Monday 23rd February 2026.Today : Italy Olympics. Slovakia Ukraine threat. France protest. Thailand sugar. Afghanistan Pakistan strikes. Japan gold. Somalia aid. Nigeria attack. US tariffs. Galapagos tortoises.SEND7 is supported by our amazing listeners like you.Our supporters get access to the transcripts and vocabulary list written by us every day.Our supporters get access to an English worksheet made by us once per week.Our supporters get access to our weekly news quiz made by us once per week.We give 10% of our profit to Effective Altruism charities. You can become a supporter at send7.org/supportWith Stephen DevincenziContact us at podcast@send7.org or send an audio message at speakpipe.com/send7Please leave a rating on Apple podcasts or Spotify.We don't use AI! Every word is written and recorded by us! We do not consent to the podcast being used to train AI.Since 2020, SEND7 (Simple English News Daily in 7 minutes) has been telling the most important world news stories in intermediate English. Every day, listen to the most important stories from every part of the world in slow, clear English. Whether you are an intermediate learner trying to improve your advanced, technical and business English, or if you are a native speaker who just wants to hear a summary of world news as fast as possible, join Stephen Devincenzi, Juliet Martin and Niall Moore every morning. Transcripts, vocabulary lists, worksheets and our weekly world news quiz are available for our amazing supporters at send7.org. Simple English News Daily is the perfect way to start your day, by practising your listening skills and understanding complicated daily news in a simple way. It is also highly valuable for IELTS and TOEFL students. Students, teachers, TEFL teachers, and people with English as a second language, tell us that they use SEND7 because they can learn English through hard topics, but simple grammar. We believe that the best way to improve your spoken English is to immerse yourself in real-life content, such as what our podcast provides. SEND7 covers all news including politics, business, natural events and human rights. Whether it is happening in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas or Oceania, you will hear it on SEND7, and you will understand it.Get your daily news and improve your English listening in the time it takes to make a coffee.For more information visit send7.org/contact or send an email to podcast@send7.org

Morse code transcription: vvv vvv Single vaccine could protect against all coughs, colds and flus, researchers say Austrian climber found guilty after girlfriend froze to death on mountain Russia Ukraine war How one Russian village lost its fighting age men to conflict Greys Anatomy star Eric Dane dies at 53 after ALS diagnosis Asos co founder dies after Thailand balcony fall Couple trade London home for Carmarthenshire 80 acre nature reserve How much could Andrews arrest hurt the Royal Family UK government finances better than expected in January BBC News weekly quiz Why was the mysterious fossil smiling An unprecedented moment for UK and a former prince

What happens when you say yes to something that terrifies you?This week on the podcast, Lise Thorne @walking_this_way and I talk about saying yes before you feel ready, body acceptance, money confidence, and why women must stop staying small.I'm joined by refreshingly honest content creator Lise Thorne , who is also the founder of The Money Conversation and Welcome Home Project, to talk about rebuilding confidence in midlife.Just before turning 40, Lise boarded a plane to Thailand for a Muay Thai retreat. She almost didn't get on that flight. That decision became the foundation for a new relationship with movement, self-belief and identity.If you're navigating midlife change, struggling with confidence, or wanting to feel more in control of your money — this episode is practical, honest and empowering.Confidence isn't something you wait for.It's built. Decision by decision.Lise is a real power house and another great example of what we can achieve when we step out of our own way.Keypoints-02:18 – The Airport Tears Why Lise almost didn't get on the plane to Thailand.06:40 –Saying Yes Before You Feel ReadyThe identity shift that comes from doing the scary thing anyway.11:25 – Movement as a Mental Health ToolWhy even small physical action changes your state.15:10 –Body Confidence vs Body AcceptanceWhy acceptance can feel more honest — and more powerful.19:45 –Becoming an “Athlete” at 20+ StoneChallenging stereotypes and redefining what strength looks like.24:30 – The £100,000 Investing LessonThe financial decision that changed everything.29:10 – Why Women Must Join the Money ConversationClosing the financial confidence gap.33:45 – Pressure, Midlife & Modern WomanhoodCareer, body, family — and choosing not to shrink.38:20 – The Welcome Home ProjectSupporting vulnerable single mothers and refugee families in practical ways.43:10 –What Confidence Really IsAction first. Certainty later.45:55 – Final ReflectionsWhy growth rarely feels glamorous — but always builds strength.Go and follow ⁠@walking_this_way to keep up to date with their progress.If this conversation resonated with you:Subscribe to Liberté – Free to BeLeave a rating or reviewShare it with a woman who might need to hear it todayThe more women who find this podcast, the more confidence, courage, and permission we can spread.✨ See you next week for another inspiring conversation.Keep being fabulousRachel x

Hello everyone, and welcome back to All About Thailand with Lonely Traveller Productions.Just a quick update from us here as we continue our journey, bringing you the real Thailand — the people, the places, and the experiences we love to share.Thanks for following along with us, and don't forget to like and follow for more updates coming very soonwww.lonelytravelerproductions.com www.lonelytravel.co.uk #AllAboutThailand #LonelyTravelerProductions #ThailandTravel #UdonThani #TravelThailand

In which the Mister joins me in reviewing SEND HELP (2026), from writers Damian Shannon and Mark Swift, the film is directed by Sam Raimi.  A mousy corporate strategist named Linda (Rachel McAdams) and her arrogant, nepo-baby boss Bradley (Dylan O'Brien) are the only survivors of a private jet crash on a remote island in the Gulf of Thailand.  The workplace hierarchy is instantly demolished when Linda reveals she is a "Survivor" super-fan with formidable wilderness skills, leaving the injured and helpless Bradley entirely dependent on the employee he previously humiliated and passed over for a promotion.  As their isolation stretches on, the survival mission descends into a darkly comedic and visceral battle of wills, where the shifting power dynamic becomes just as dangerous as the elements themselves.  The film clocks in at 1 h and 53 m, is rated R and is currently in theaters.  Please note there are SPOILERS in this review. #SendHelp #DamianShannon #MarkSwift #SamRaimi #RachelMcAdams #Linda #DylanOBrien #Bradley #EdyllIsmail #Zuri #XavierSamuel #Donovan #DarkComedy #PsychologicalHorror #PsychologicalThriller #Thriller #Adventure #Horror #InTheatersNow #NewRelease #FridayFamilyFilmNight Opening intro music: GOAT by Wayne Jones, courtesy of YouTube Audio Library

Dive into the raw emotions of Prince's unexpected death, as Opie, Carl Ruiz, and Vic Henley share hilarious and heartfelt stories about his iconic music that still shakes the soul. Uncover the controversy surrounding wrestler Chyna's explosive documentary, featuring insider revelations from director Anthony about her tragic end and unseen footage that sparks debate. Tune in for witty banter, surprising twists on redemption, and a peek at Thailand's brutal Prison Fighters program—perfect for fans craving irreverent insights into pop culture's darkest corners. OH! Lingerie football. Almost forgot.4/21

Subscribe now to skip the ads. Join our Discord. Danny and Derek have been disqualified from the Games for incessant podium crashing. In this week's news: tensions rise between the United States and Iran with reports of likely military strikes by the U.S. (1:32 ); Trump announces Gaza “Board of Peace” funding and troop details (11:39), Hamas refuses to disarm absent Palestinian statehood (15:31), and the UN Human Rights Office says that Israel is committing ethnic cleansing in Gaza and the West Bank (17:12); the Wall Street Journal reports the United States withdraws from Syria (21:00), Cambodia's prime minister accuses Thailand's military of occupying Cambodian territory (23:54); a UN investigation finds evidence of genocide in Sudan by the RSF (26:51); the U.S. deploys military personnel to Nigeria (28:38); another round of Ukraine peace talks makes little progress (31:01); British police arrest Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, former prince, on suspicion of misconduct in public office tied to Jeffrey Epstein (34:00); Peru's congress removes President José Heri amid ongoing instability (36:20); Cuba's fuel crisis worsens as the U.S. blockade restricts oil supplies (39:09); Marco Rubio and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez deliver Munich Security Conference speeches (41:26); and the EPA rescinds the 2009 endangerment finding as the administration rolls back more U.S. climate regulation (44:51). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode unpacks the 8 February 2026 snap election and constitutional referendum in Thailand. The results paint a mixed picture: a decisive win for the country's conservative forces alongside signals of progressive change, particularly regarding the drafting of a new constitution. Dialogues on Southeast Asia sits down with Prof Duncan McCargo, President's Chair in Global Affairs at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and a world-leading specialist on Thai politics, to make sense of what the results mean. Prof McCargo focuses on the comparative politics of Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, on which he has published widely. He is the author of a dozen books, including Fighting for Virtue: Politics and Justice in Thailand (Cornell, 2019) and Future Forward: The Rise and Fall of a Thai Political Party (NIAS Press, 2020). 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

NO RESERVATIONS — Welcome to a new season of The Full Bleed. This year, we're going to be talking to makers and creators, of course, but also more about the business of magazines. Because, let's face it, making a magazine is not easy. It never has been. But we're seeing more and more magazines—in print—out in the world and there's a reason for that. At a time where the digital world is a messy place, and that's being polite, magazines are perfectly positioned as a part of an “analog” wave that is going to become more and more important in the media and in marketing.  We open the season with Nathan Thornburgh from Roads & Kingdoms, a media brand that started out as a media brand—stay with me here—with the support of Anthony Bourdain, yes, that one, and then pivoted to becoming a kind of gastronomic tour company with loads of content on their website, and has now published their first magazine. And it won't be their last. Travel, especially these days, is pure analog, a completely human experience. It touches the senses in a way not many things can. Think about Anthony Bourdain's work and you think of how immersed he was everywhere he went. Whether he was writing about the reality of a kitchen or filming a meal of noodles at a roadside stand in Thailand, he was all in. His was a very human-centered media, full of sights and smells and sounds and people. And that's what Roads & Kingdoms will try and replicate. On the page. On every page. — This episode is made possible by our friends at Freeport Press. A production of Magazeum LLC ©2021–2025

This episode unpacks the 8 February 2026 snap election and constitutional referendum in Thailand. The results paint a mixed picture: a decisive win for the country's conservative forces alongside signals of progressive change, particularly regarding the drafting of a new constitution. Dialogues on Southeast Asia sits down with Prof Duncan McCargo, President's Chair in Global Affairs at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and a world-leading specialist on Thai politics, to make sense of what the results mean. Prof McCargo focuses on the comparative politics of Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, on which he has published widely. He is the author of a dozen books, including Fighting for Virtue: Politics and Justice in Thailand (Cornell, 2019) and Future Forward: The Rise and Fall of a Thai Political Party (NIAS Press, 2020). Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/southeast-asian-studies

This episode unpacks the 8 February 2026 snap election and constitutional referendum in Thailand. The results paint a mixed picture: a decisive win for the country's conservative forces alongside signals of progressive change, particularly regarding the drafting of a new constitution. Dialogues on Southeast Asia sits down with Prof Duncan McCargo, President's Chair in Global Affairs at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and a world-leading specialist on Thai politics, to make sense of what the results mean. Prof McCargo focuses on the comparative politics of Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, on which he has published widely. He is the author of a dozen books, including Fighting for Virtue: Politics and Justice in Thailand (Cornell, 2019) and Future Forward: The Rise and Fall of a Thai Political Party (NIAS Press, 2020). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

Magnus planerar sin sommarturné och Agnes drömmer om pompelmöss i Thailand.

Today we'll be talking about a monkey attack that left an influencer hospitalized, a cannabis scam foiled in Pattaya, and a little later some headlines made regarding interference in both Thai and American elections.

This week, we examine coming US inflation and labour market data, and the Fed outlook following a hawkish set of minutes this week. In Europe, we discuss reports that President Lagarde could be leaving the ECB early and consider the growth and inflation outlook for the region. Across Asia, we preview the Bank of Korea and Bank of Thailand policy meetings, and examine key coming data in India, Japan and Australia. Chapters: US: 2:00; Europe: 8:15;  Asia: 14:00

Well, my wife is dead, time to go to Thailand to get a new wife for $600. For the full episode, go to patreon.com/mostcontroversial

Olympic history is filled with bizarre, discontinued, and surreal moments, particularly in the early 20th century. Standout oddities include live pigeon shooting, painting/literature competitions, underwater swimming, and a 200-meter obstacle swim in the Seine. There is a lot of weird history. Watch the ⁠⁠⁠podcast⁠⁠⁠ Fight me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠war of the barons⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Travel to Croatia with me ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Travel to Greece with me ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Travel to Thailand with me ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sister podcast the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mystery of Everything⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Coffee Collab With The Lore Lodge ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠COFFEE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Bonus episodes as well as ad-free episodes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Find us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Join us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Discord⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Submit your relatives on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The King's brother is suspected of misconduct in public office. Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has previously denied wrongdoing. Also: Dame Antonia Romeo has been appointed as Sir Keir Starmer's new Cabinet Secretary. And police in Thailand have gone undercover to arrest a man suspected of stealing thousands of pounds worth of Buddhist artefacts.

One of the most memorable parts of travel is the people that we meet - not just the friends we make or the people we stay with but also the incidental encounters along the way. Speaking with people on our travels is one of the ways we learn the most about the places we're visiting and it's amazing how long these people stay in our minds, even when we don't know their names. In this episode I share some of my own small but memorable encounters, as well as including stories from four guests. Eryn Gordon starts us off with a tale from Thailand, where the people are stereotypically friendly and she proves it to be true. Amy Willis then shares a place she goes where it's easy to make a connection with the local people wherever you are. Nomad Bianca Rappaport explains how she's managed to both make and maintain connections during her years of housesitting in many places around the world, and finally Heidi Brown highlights one of the big benefits of repeated visits to a beloved place. Links: Eryn Gordon’s website Earth to Editorial - https://earthtoeditorial.com/ Eryn's TEDx Talk on “What it means to be a good traveler” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WQYSdm-5ps Amy Willis from Ker & Downey https://kerdowney.com/ Amy's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/amynwillis/ Bianca Rappaport Website: https://wanderwell.club/ Bianca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderwellclub - Heidi Brown - https://www.heidikristinbrown.com/ Heidi’s memoir The Map I Draw: A Memoir of Travel as a Passport to Self - https://amzn.to/44Mky6T Join our Facebook group for Thoughtful Travellers - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thoughtfultravellers Join our LinkedIn group for Thoughtful Travellers - https://notaballerina.com/linkedin Sign up for the Thoughtful Travellers newsletter at Substack - https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com Show notes: https://notaballerina.com/383 *Full disclosure: Amazon Services LLC Associates Program NotABallerina.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.Support the show: https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You know those moments when you think you've reached the end of the story… …and then someone opens a dusty cardboard box and you realise you're actually just getting started? This episode begins not in Thailand.Not on WhatsApp.Not in a bar with a man in full Admiral whites. It begins in a garage. Specifically, retired detective and criminologist Professor Vince Hurley's garage. Inside? Old case files. Notes. Clippings. Things packed away but never quite forgotten. The kind of paperwork that doesn't shout… it just waits. And when we start going through those boxes together, something becomes very clear: Patterns don't disappear.They just gather dust. In this episode of The BADmiral, we step back in time. We look at what was known, what was said, what was documented — long before this podcast existed. We explore how experienced investigators think, how instincts form, and why sometimes your gut is simply pattern recognition catching up with you. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Patreon to make sure you don't miss it.

Miquita Oliver catches up with Jordan Stephens in Thailand to discuss the blurred lines of reality TV, the emotional pull of teen drama nostalgia and the ancient origins of the Olympics. Credits: Producer: Jonathan O'Sullivan Technical Producer: Oliver Geraghty Assistant Producer: Caillin McDaid Production Coordinator: Rose Wilcox Executive Producer: Dino Sofos Commissioning Producer for BBC: Jake Williams Commissioners: Dylan Haskins & Lorraine OkuefunaMiss Me? is a Persephonica production for BBC Sounds

Three members of Citi's global real estate research team—Nick Joseph in the United States, Aaron Guy in the U.K., and Howard Penny in Australia—joined the latest episode of the Nareit REIT Report podcast to share their thoughts on regional outlooks and sector performance.Citi's overall expectation is for higher real estate stock returns this year versus in 2025. One key theme across all markets is supply and demand, Joseph said. “The supply picture broadly is more encouraging globally,” he noted, while Citi economists are generally “constructive” on global growth this year.Higher total returns in 2026 are anticipated in the U.S., Europe, Latin America, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines. In Australia and China, Citi is expecting about similar performance this year versus last year, while weaker performance is forecast in Hong Kong, Japan, and the Middle East.REITs are well positioned in the U.S. for 2026, with about a 10% to 15% total return, Joseph said. He commented on the “massive dispersion” of performance within the REIT sector. “That's really what gets us excited about different REIT opportunities because different stocks and different sectors will perform differently and create a lot of different alpha generation opportunities.”

Joey hat rausgefunden, dass Orangen an den Orten, von denen sie ursprünglich kommen, gar nicht orange werden, sondern grün bleiben. Auf einmal ist seine Welt zusammengebrochen, denn wieso nennen wir eine Farbe nach einer Frucht, die diese Farbe eigentlich gar nicht hat? Weil er in dieser desillusionierten Welt nicht allein leben möchte, zieht er Julia heute mit in die Scheiße und euch noch dazu. Julia juckt das aber relativ wenig, denn sie ist jetzt ein international Superstar. Mehrere ausländische Klatschmagazine berichten nämlich inzwischen von ihrem Affenbiss in Thailand oder schwupps, kommt sie plötzlich aus dem Blitzlichtgewitter gar nicht mehr raus. Weil das Ego dadurch natürlich schnell mal in die Höhe schießen kann klären wir heute direkt, in welchen Bereichen wir am meisten Recht haben wollen und zu guter letzt beantworten wir die Frage, die euch seit Ewigkeiten auf den Lippen brennt: Welcher Salat ist unser Liebster? Höre "Die Nervigen" immer schon Montags kostenlos bei Podimo. Zusätzlich gibt es jede Woche eine Bonusfolge bei Podimo Premium: https://podimo.de/nervig Du möchtest mehr über unsere Werbepartner erfahren? Hier findest du alle Infos & Rabatte: https://linktr.ee/dienervigen Du möchtest Werbung in diesem Podcast schalten? Dann erfahre hier mehr über die Werbemöglichkeiten bei Seven.One Audio: https://www.seven.one/portfolio/sevenone-audio

Today we'll be talking about sewage in the sea grossing out beachgoers in Jomtien, Cocaine worth millions seized in Phuket police raids, and a little later good news for motorists under the age of 55 looking to renew their driver's licenses.

INTRO (00:24): Kathleen opens the show drinking a Scorpion Dust IPA from Fuzzbot Brewing Company. She reviews her weekend in Tucson and Scottsdale, golfing and searching for javelinas.    TOUR NEWS: See Kathleen live on her “Day Drinking Tour.”   TASTING MENU (2:05): Kathleen samples Doritos Simply NKD chips and M&M's Peanut Butter Cinnamon Roll candy.    COURT NEWS (33:14): Kathleen shares news about Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart reunite at the Milan Olympics, and Taylor Swift celebrates Olympic skier Breezy Johnson's engagement.    UPDATES (34:22) : Kathleen shares updates on Mt. Everest banning amateurs from base camp, Juliette Lewis flies RetrieveAir, French police uncover a massive Louvre ticket fraud scheme, the Chief Mouser of 10 Downing Street turns 15, the “Wizard of Oz” at Sphere in Vegas is rolling out an enhanced version late 2026, and Britney Spears sells her music catalog.   FRONT PAGE PUB NEWS (57:44): Kathleen shares articles on the leak of the Tennessee Titans new logo, Gene Simmons says rap doesn't below in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Route 66 is turning 100 years old, schools are removing analog clocks, Spike the Chihuahua is now the oldest dog in the world, Wendy's is closing 300 more locations, the Seattle Seahawks are for sale, and a St. Louis puppy is crowned MVP at the 2026 Puppy Bowl.    HOLY SHIT THEY FOUND IT (54:55): Kathleen reads about a megalodon shark tooth discovered off the coast of North Carolina, and a “fire tiger” is captured on a trail cam in Thailand.    WHAT ARE WE WATCHING (1:15:51): Kathleen recommends watching the 2026 Milan Winter Olympic coverage on NBC and Peacock.   SAINT OF THE WEEK (1:22:42): Kathleen reads about St. Xavier, patron saint of Catholic missions.    FEEL GOOD STORY (1:17:40): Kathleen shares a story about a French cat named Filou who traveled 250 km over five months to return home from Spain. 

When Tyler called Joe Studwell's How Asia Works "perhaps my favorite economics book of the year" back in 2013, he wasn't alone: it became one of the most influential treatments of industrial policy ever written. Now Studwell has turned his attention to Africa with How Africa Works. Tyler calls it excellent, extremely well-researched, and essential reading, but does Studwell's optimism about the continent hold up under scrutiny? Tyler and Joe explore whether population density actually solves development, which African countries are likely to achieve stable growth, whether Africa has a manufacturing future, why state infrastructure projects decay while farmer-led irrigation thrives, what progress looks like in education and public health, whether charter cities or special economic zones can work, and how permanent Africa's colonial borders really are. After testing Joe's optimism about Africa, Tyler shifts back to Asia: what Japan and South Korea will do about depopulation, why industrial policy worked in East Asia but failed in India and Brazil, what went wrong in Thailand, and what Joe will tackle next. Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links, or watch the full video on the new dedicated Conversations with Tyler channel. Recorded January 23rd, 2026. Other ways to connect Follow us on X and Instagram Follow Tyler on X Sign up for our newsletter Join our Discord Email us: cowenconvos@mercatus.gmu.edu Learn more about Conversations with Tyler and other Mercatus Center podcasts here. Image Credit: Nick J.B. Moore

Actor David Carradine, renowned for Kung Fu and Kill Bill, died at 72 in a Bangkok hotel on June 4, 2009, under bizarre circumstances. Found naked in a closet with cords tied around his neck and genitals, police suspected accidental death by autoerotic asphyxiation rather than suicide. Key details surrounding his life and death include:The Incident: Carradine was found by a hotel maid in the Swissotel Nai Lert Park Hotel, hanging in a closet with curtains.Cause of Death: While initially reported as a potential suicide, forensic experts and police indicated the death was likely an accidental result of dangerous sexual practices.Controversy: There were no signs of a struggle in the room, but the peculiar, bound nature of the body led to widespread speculation and tabloid coverage.Final Days: Witnesses reported that Carradine appeared to be in good spirits, playing piano in the hotel lobby just days before his death while in Thailand to film the movie Stretch.Unusual Life: Known for a tumultuous personal life, he had previously spoken about his struggles with suicidal thoughts and had a history of erratic behavior, including a 1974 incident where he was arrested for breaking into a neighbor's home while naked.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-opperman-report--1198501/support.

This week Jonathan & Brad are joined by Shae Wall to interview a global missionary that SVCC supports, Suzy Triplett! Check out Friends of the City to see all of the work Suzy does in Thailand! Click here to support their work: https://www.servantpartners.org/donate JM's Album Of The Week: The Brilliance - Brother Bradford's Book Club: Preparing for Easter: Fifty Devotionals Readings from C.S. Lewis

Today we will talk about several major stories making headlines across Thailand and the region — including a Thai man who died in police detention after his arrest for assault, a series of controversial incidents involving foreign tourists in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya, and the arrest of four Myanmar nationals over the fatal attack of an American man in Bangkok. We'll also look at Indonesia's US$7.62 billion Ramadan stimulus package and whether it can truly boost economic growth.

Have you longed to integrate your Christian faith into your patient care—on the mission field abroad, in your work in the US, and during your training? Are you not sure how to do this in a caring, ethical, sensitive, and relevant manner? This “working” session will explore the ethical basis for spiritual care and provide you with professional, timely, and proven practical methods to care for the whole person in the clinical setting. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/qpah9kh1lttg6cm1jjop9/Bob-Mason-Ethics-of-Spiritual-Care-revised.pptx?rlkey=0emve2ja8282nv8xc4uinq1hg&st=9033htwx&dl=0

Belle wanted nothing to do with her parents’ faith in Jesus. In college, she proclaimed herself an agnostic and sought to live without God. But a breakup with her boyfriend and growing depression sent her on a downward spiral. She thought of ending her life. In those depths of despair, she thought of her parents joy in Christ, and eventually trusted Him as Savior. Later, she heard a man speak about a people group in China who had never heard the gospel. She wanted to go there to tell them, but some people discouraged her because of the danger. She went anyway. Together with a young man she met in college and eventually married, Belle spent the rest of her life taking the gospel to people in China and Thailand. Thousands of people trusted Jesus, and the legacy of this woman, Isobel Kuhn, lives on in those lands. Who gave a young woman a new life and hope and walked with her as she dealt with difficult life challenges? Jesus. Are you wondering what life is about? Perhaps questioning your existence? Turn to Christ—"God’s one and only son” (John 3:18) who died for you (Romans 5:8). He loves you enough to provide life that lasts forever (John 3:16). Yes, “whoever believes in [Jesus] has eternal life” (3:36). And when we believe in Him, as Belle did, He will be with us as we face life’s challenges and help us extend His love to others.

Check out host Bidemi Ologunde's new show: The Work Ethic Podcast, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Email: bidemiologunde@gmail.comIn this episode, host Bidemi Ologunde zooms in on three global "signals" from Feb 9–15, 2026: a trust stress-test for Western alliances at the Munich Security Conference, a stability-versus-reform showdown in Thailand's election and constitution referendum, and a quiet but pivotal resilience upgrade in global health as WHO prequalifies an additional novel oral polio vaccine supplier. What do these seemingly separate headlines reveal about the world's new operating system, where credibility is measured in capabilities, legitimacy is negotiated in the rules, and preparedness depends on redundant supply chains? Are alliances becoming more transactional, and if so, what does that mean for deterrence and diplomacy? Can a government be "stable" while the constitution itself is up for renegotiation? And why might a vaccine manufacturing decision in one week matter as much as a summit speech?Quick question: when you buy something handmade, do you ever wonder who made it, and where your money really goes? Lembrih is building a marketplace where you can shop Black and African-owned brands and learn the story behind the craft. And the impact is built in: buyers can support vendors directly, and Lembrih also gives back through African-led charities, including $1 per purchase. They're crowdfunding on Kickstarter now. Back Lembrih at lembrih.com, or search “Lembrih” on Kickstarter.Support the show

Last time we spoke about the beginning of the Nomohan incident. On the fringes of Manchuria, the ghosts of Changkufeng lingered. It was August 1938 when Soviet and Japanese forces locked in a brutal standoff over a disputed hill, claiming thousands of lives before a fragile ceasefire redrew the lines. Japan, humiliated yet defiant, withdrew, but the Kwantung Army seethed with resentment. As winter thawed into 1939, tensions simmered along the Halha River, a serpentine boundary between Manchukuo and Mongolia. Major Tsuji Masanobu, a cunning tactician driven by gekokujo's fire, drafted Order 1488: a mandate empowering local commanders to annihilate intruders, even luring them across borders. Kwantung's leaders, bonded by past battles, endorsed it, ignoring Tokyo's cautions amid the grinding China War. By May, the spark ignited. Mongolian patrols crossed the river, clashing with Manchukuoan cavalry near Nomonhan's sandy hills. General Komatsubara, ever meticulous, unleashed forces to "destroy" them, bombing west-bank outposts and pursuing retreats. Soviets, bound by pact, rushed reinforcements, their tanks rumbling toward the fray. What began as skirmishes ballooned into an undeclared war.   #189 General Zhukov Arrives at Nomohan Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. Though Kwantung Army prided itself as an elite arm of the Imperial Japanese Army, the 23rd Division, formed less than a year prior, was still raw and unseasoned, lacking the polish and spirit typical of its parent force. From General Michitaro Komatsubara downward, the staff suffered a collective dearth of combat experience. Intelligence officer Major Yoshiyasu Suzuki, a cavalryman, had no prior intel background. While senior regimental commanders were military academy veterans, most company and platoon leaders were fresh reservists or academy graduates with just one or two years under their belts. Upon arriving in Manchukuo in August 1938, the division found its Hailar base incomplete, housing only half its troops; the rest scattered across sites. Full assembly at Hailar occurred in November, but harsh winter weather curtailed large-scale drills. Commanders had scant time to build rapport. This inexperience, inadequate training, and poor cohesion would prove costly at Nomonhan. Japan's army held steady at 17 divisions from 1930 to 1937, but the escalating China conflict spurred seven new divisions in 1938 and nine in 1939. Resource strains from China left many under-equipped, with the 23rd, stationed in a presumed quiet sector, low on priorities. Unlike older "rectangular" divisions with four infantry regiments, the 23rd was a modern "triangular" setup featuring the 64th, 71st, and 72nd. Materiel gaps were glaring. The flat, open terrain screamed for tanks, yet the division relied on a truck-equipped transport regiment and a reconnaissance regiment with lightly armored "tankettes" armed only with machine guns. Mobility suffered: infantry marched the final 50 miles from Hailar to Nomonhan. Artillery was mostly horse-drawn, including 24 outdated Type 38 75-mm guns from 1907, the army's oldest, unique to this division. Each infantry regiment got four 37-mm rapid-fire guns and four 1908-era 75-mm mountain guns. The artillery regiment added 12 120-mm howitzers, all high-angle, short-range pieces ill-suited for flatlands or anti-tank roles. Antitank capabilities were dire: beyond rapid-fire guns, options boiled down to demolition charges and Molotov cocktails, demanding suicidal "human bullet" tactics in open terrain, a fatal flaw against armor. The division's saving grace lay in its soldiers, primarily from Kyushu, Japan's southernmost main island, long famed for hardy warriors. These men embodied resilience, bravery, loyalty, and honor, offsetting some training and gear deficits. Combat at Nomonhan ramped up gradually, with Japanese-Manchukuoan forces initially outnumbering Soviet-Mongolian foes. Soviets faced severe supply hurdles: their nearest rail at Borzya sat 400 miles west of the Halha River, requiring truck hauls over rough, exposed terrain prone to air strikes. Conversely, Hailar was 200 miles from Nomonhan, with the Handagai railhead just 50 miles away, linked by three dirt roads. These advantages, plus Europe's brewing Polish crisis, likely reassured Army General Staff and Kwantung Army Headquarters that Moscow would avoid escalation. Nonetheless, Komatsubara, with KwAHQ's nod, chose force to quash the Nomonhan flare-up. On May 20, Japanese scouts spotted a Soviet infantry battalion and armor near Tamsag Bulak. Komatsubara opted to "nip the incident in the bud," assembling a potent strike force under Colonel Takemitsu Yamagata of the 64th Infantry Regiment. The Yamagata detachment included the 3rd Battalion, roughly four companies, 800 men, a regimental gun company, three 75-mm mountain guns, four 37-mm rapid-fires, three truck companies, and Lieutenant Colonel Yaozo Azuma's reconnaissance group, 220 men, one tankette, two sedans, 12 trucks. Bolstered by 450 local Manchukuoan troops, the 2,000-strong unit was tasked with annihilating all enemy east of the Halha. The assault was set for May 22–23. No sooner had General Komatsubara finalized this plan than he received a message from KwAHQ: "In settling the affair Kwantung Army has definite plans, as follows: For the time being Manchukuoan Army troops will keep an eye on the Outer Mongolians operating near Nomonhan and will try to lure them onto Manchukuoan territory. Japanese forces at Hailar [23rd Division] will maintain surveillance over the situation. Upon verification of a border violation by the bulk of the Outer Mongolian forces, Kwantung Army will dispatch troops, contact the enemy, and annihilate him within friendly territory. According to this outlook it can be expected that enemy units will occupy border regions for a considerable period; but this is permissible from the overall strategic point of view". At this juncture, Kwantung Army Headquarters advocated tactical caution to secure a more conclusive outcome. Yet, General Michitaro Komatsubara had already issued orders for Colonel Takemitsu Yamagata's assault. Komatsubara radioed Hsinking that retracting would be "undignified," resenting KwAHQ's encroachment on his authority much as KwAHQ chafed at Army General Staff interference. Still, "out of deference to Kwantung Army's feelings," he delayed to May 27 to 28. Soviet air units from the 57th Corps conducted ineffective sorties over the Halha River from May 17 to 21. Novice pilots in outdated I 15 biplanes suffered heavily: at least 9, possibly up to 17, fighters and scouts downed. Defense Commissar Kliment Voroshilov halted air ops, aiding Japanese surprise. Yamagata massed at Kanchuerhmiao, 40 miles north of Nomonhan, sending patrols southward. Scouts spotted a bridge over the Halha near its Holsten junction, plus 2 enemy groups of ~200 each east of the Halha on either Holsten side and a small MPR outpost less than a mile west of Nomonhan. Yamagata aimed to trap and destroy these east of the river: Azuma's 220 man unit would drive south along the east bank to the bridge, blocking retreat. The 4 infantry companies and Manchukuoan troops, with artillery, would attack from the west toward enemy pockets, herding them riverward into Azuma's trap. Post destruction, mop up any west bank foes near the river clear MPR soil swiftly. This intricate plan suited early MPR foes but overlooked Soviet units spotted at Tamsag Bulak on May 20, a glaring oversight by Komatsubara and Yamagata. Predawn on May 28, Yamagata advanced from Kanchuerhmiao. Azuma detached southward to the bridge. Unbeknownst, it was guarded by Soviet infantry, engineers, armored cars, and a 76 mm self propelled artillery battery—not just MPR cavalry. Soviets detected Azuma pre dawn but missed Yamagata's main force; surprise was mutual. Soviet MPR core: Major A E Bykov's battalion roughly 1000 men with 3 motorized infantry companies, 16 BA 6 armored cars, 4 76 mm self propelled guns, engineers, and a 5 armored car recon platoon. The 6th MPR Cavalry Division roughly 1250 men had 2 small regiments, 4 76 mm guns, armored cars, and a training company. Bykov arrayed north to south: 2 Soviet infantry on flanks, MPR cavalry center, unorthodox, as cavalry suits flanks. Spread over 10 miles parallel to but east of the Halha, 1 mile west of Nomonhan. Reserves: 1 infantry company, engineers, and artillery west of the river near the bridge; Shoaaiibuu's guns also west to avoid sand. Japanese held initial edges in numbers and surprise, especially versus MPR cavalry. Offsets: Yamagata split into 5 weaker units; radios failed early, hampering coordination; Soviets dominated firepower with self propelled guns, 4 MPR pieces, and BA 6s, armored fighters with 45 mm turret guns, half track capable, 27 mph speed, but thin 9 mm armor vulnerable to close heavy machine guns. Morning of May 28, Yamagata's infantry struck Soviet MPR near Nomonhan, routing lightly armed MPR cavalry and forcing Soviet retreats toward the Halha. Shoaaiibuu rushed his training company forward; Japanese overran his post, killing him and most staff. As combat neared the river, Soviet artillery and armored cars slowed Yamagata. He redirected to a low hill miles east of the Halha with dug in Soviets—failing to notify Azuma. Bykov regrouped 1 to 2 miles east of the Halha Holsten junction, holding firm. By late morning, Yamagata stalled, digging in against Soviet barrages. Azuma, radio silent due to faults, neared the bridge to find robust Soviet defenses. Artillery commander Lieutenant Yu Vakhtin shifted his 4 76 mm guns east to block seizure. Azuma lacked artillery or anti tank tools, unable to advance. With Yamagata bogged down, Azuma became encircled, the encirclers encircled. Runners reached Yamagata, but his dispersed units couldn't rally or breakthrough. By noon, Azuma faced infantry and cavalry from the east, bombardments from west (both Halha sides). Dismounted cavalry dug sandy defenses. Azuma could have broken out but held per mission, awaiting Yamagata, unaware of the plan shift. Pressure mounted: Major I M Remizov's full 149th Regiment recent Tamsag Bulak arrivals trucked in, tilting odds. Resupply failed; ammo dwindled. Post dusk slackening: A major urged withdrawal; Azuma refused, deeming retreat shameful without orders, a Japanese army hallmark, where "retreat" was taboo, replaced by euphemisms like "advance in a different direction." Unauthorized pullback meant execution. Dawn May 29: Fiercer Soviet barrage, 122 mm howitzers, field guns, mortars, armored cars collapsed trenches. An incendiary hit Azuma's sedan, igniting trucks with wounded and ammo. By late afternoon, Soviets closed to 50 yards on 3 fronts; armored cars breached rear. Survivors fought desperately. Between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m., Azuma led 24 men in a banzai charge, cut down by machine guns. A wounded medical lieutenant ordered escapes; 4 succeeded. Rest killed or captured. Komatsubara belatedly reinforced Yamagata on May 29 with artillery, anti tank guns, and fresh infantry. Sources claim Major Tsuji arrived, rebuked Yamagata for inaction, and spurred corpse recovery over 3 nights, yielding ~200 bodies, including Azuma's. Yamagata withdrew to Kanchuerhmiao, unable to oust foes. Ironically, Remizov mistook recovery truck lights for attacks, briefly pulling back west on May 30. By June 3, discovering the exit, Soviet MPR reoccupied the zone. Japanese blamed:  (1) poor planning/recon by Komatsubara and Yamagata,  (2) comms failures,  (3) Azuma's heavy weapon lack. Losses: ~200 Azuma dead, plus 159 killed, 119 wounded, 12 missing from main force, total 500, 25% of detachment. Soviets praised Vakhtin for thwarting pincers. Claims: Bykov 60 to 70 casualties; TASS 40 killed, 70 wounded total Soviet/MPR. Recent Russian: 138 killed, 198 wounded. MPR cavalry hit hard by Japanese and friendly fire. Soviet media silent until June 26; KwAHQ censored, possibly misleading Tokyo. May 30: Kwantung Chief of Staff General Rensuke Isogai assured AGS of avoiding prolongation via heavy frontier blows, downplaying Soviet buildup and escalation. He requested river crossing gear urgently.   This hinted at Halha invasion (even per Japanese borders: MPR soil). AGS's General Gun Hashimoto affirmed trust in localization: Soviets' vexations manageable, chastisement easy. Colonel Masazumi Inada's section assessed May 31: 1. USSR avoids expansion.  2. Trust Kwantung localization.  3. Intervene on provocative acts like deep MPR air strikes. Phase 1 ended: Kwantung called it mutual win loss, but inaccurate, Azuma destroyed, heavy tolls, remorse gnawing Komatsubara. On June 1, 1939, an urgent summons from Moscow pulled the young deputy commander of the Byelorussian Military District from Minsk to meet Defense Commissar Marshal Kliment Voroshilov. He boarded the first train with no evident concern, even as the army purges faded into memory. This rising cavalry- and tank-expert, Georgy Konstantinovich Zhukov, would later help defend Moscow in 1941, triumph at Stalingrad and Kursk, and march to Berlin as a Hero of the Soviet Union.Born in 1896 to a poor family headed by a cobbler, Zhukov joined the Imperial Army in 1915 as a cavalryman. Of average height but sturdy build, he excelled in horsemanship and earned the Cross of St. George and noncommissioned status for bravery in 1916. After the October Revolution, he joined the Red Army and the Bolshevik Party, fighting in the Civil War from 1918 to 1921. His proletarian roots, tactical skill, and ambition propelled him: command of a regiment by 1923, a division by 1931. An early advocate of tanks, he survived the purges, impressing superiors as a results-driven leader and playing a key role in his assignment to Mongolia. In Voroshilov's office on June 2, Zhukov learned of recent clashes. Ordered to fly east, assess the situation, and assume command if needed, he soon met acting deputy chief Ivan Smorodinov, who urged candid reports. Europe's war clouds and rising tensions with Japan concerned the Kremlin. Hours later, Zhukov and his staff flew east. Arriving June 5 at Tamsag Bulak (57th Corps HQ), Zhukov met the staff and found Corps Commander Nikolai Feklenko and most aides clueless; only Regimental Commissar M. S. Nikishev had visited the front. Zhukov toured with Nikishev that afternoon and was impressed by his grasp. By day's end, Zhukov bluntly reported: this is not a simple border incident; the Japanese are likely to escalate; the 57th Corps is inadequate. He suggested holding the eastern Halha bridgehead until reinforcements could enable a counteroffensive, and he criticized Feklenko. Moscow replied on June 6: relieve Feklenko; appoint Zhukov. Reinforcements arrived: the 36th Mechanized Infantry Division; the 7th, 8th, and 9th Mechanized Brigades; the 11th Tank Brigade; the 8th MPR Cavalry Division; a heavy artillery regiment; an air wing of more than 100 aircraft, including 21 pilots who had earned renown in the Spanish Civil War. The force was redesignated as the First Army Group. In June, these forces surged toward Tamsag Bulak, eighty miles west of Halha. However, General Michitaro Komatsubara's 23rd Division and the Kwantung Army Headquarters missed the buildup and the leadership change, an intelligence failure born of carelessness and hubris and echoing May's Azuma disaster, with grave battlefield consequences. Early June remained relatively quiet: the Soviet MPR expanded the east-bank perimeter modestly; there was no major Japanese response. KwAHQ's Commander General Kenkichi Ueda, hoping for a quick closure, toured the Fourth Army from May 31 to June 18. Calm broke on June 19. Komatsubara reported two Soviet strikes inside Manchukuo: 15 planes hit Arshan, inflicting casualties on men and horses; 30 aircraft set fire to 100 petroleum barrels near Kanchuerhmiao. In fact, the raids were less dramatic than described: not on Kanchuerhmiao town (a 3,000-person settlement, 40 miles northwest of Nomonhan) but on a supply dump 12 miles south of it. "Arshan" referred to a small village near the border, near Arshanmiao, a Manchukuoan cavalry depot, not a major railhead at Harlun Arshan 100 miles southeast. The raids were strafing runs rather than bombs. Possibly retaliation for May 15's Japanese raid on the MPR Outpost 7 (two killed, 15 wounded) or a response to Zhukov's bridgehead push. Voroshilov authorized the action; motive remained unclear. Nonetheless, KwAHQ, unused to air attacks after dominating skies in Manchuria, Shanghai (1932), and China, was agitated. The situation resembled a jolt akin to the 1973 North Vietnamese strike on U.S. bases in Thailand: not unprovoked, but shocking. Midday June 19, the Operations Staff met. Major Masanobu Tsuji urged swift reprisal; Colonel Masao Terada urged delay in light of the Tientsin crisis (the new Japanese blockade near Peking). Tsuji argued that firmness at Nomonhan would impress Britain; inaction would invite deeper Soviet bombardments or invasion. He swayed Chief Colonel Takushiro Hattori and others, including Terada. They drafted a briefing: the situation was grave; passivity risked a larger invasion and eroded British respect for Japanese might. After two hours of joint talks, most KwAHQ members supported a strong action. Tsuji drafted a major Halha crossing plan to destroy Soviet MPR forces. Hattori and Terada pressed the plan to Chief of Staff General Rensuke Isogai, an expert on Manchukuo affairs but not operations; he deferred to Deputy General Otozaburo Yano, who was absent. They argued urgency; Isogai noted delays in AGS approval. The pair contended for local Kwantung prerogative, citing the 1937 Amur cancellation; AGS would likely veto. Under pressure, Isogai assented, pending Ueda's approval. Ueda approved but insisted that the 23rd Division lead, not the 7th. Hattori noted the 7th's superiority (four regiments in a "square" arrangement versus the 23rd's three regiments, with May unreliability). Ueda prioritized Komatsubara's honor: assigning another division would imply distrust; "I'd rather die." The plan passed on June 19, an example of gekokujo in action. The plan called for reinforcing the 23rd with: the 2nd Air Group (180 aircraft, Lieutenant General Tetsuji Gigi); the Yasuoka Detachment (Lieutenant General Masaomi Yasuoka: two tank regiments, motorized artillery, and the 26th Infantry of the 7th). Total strength: roughly 15,000 men, 120 guns, 70 tanks, 180 aircraft. KwAHQ estimated the enemy at about 1,000 infantry, 10 artillery pieces, and about 12 armored vehicles, expecting a quick victory. Reconnaissance to Halha was curtailed to avoid alerting the Soviets. Confidence ran high, even as intel warned otherwise. Not all leaders were convinced: the 23rd's ordnance colonel reportedly committed suicide over "awful equipment." An attaché, Colonel Akio Doi, warned of growing Soviet buildup, but operations dismissed the concern. In reality, Zhukov's force comprised about 12,500 men, 109 guns, 186 tanks, 266 armored cars, and more than 100 aircraft, offset by the Soviets' armor advantage. The plan echoed Yamagata's failed May 28 initiative: the 23rd main body would seize the Fui Heights (11 miles north of Halha's Holsten junction), cross by pontoon, and sweep south along the west bank toward the Soviet bridge. Yasuoka would push southeast of Halha to trap and destroy the enemy at the junction. On June 20, Tsuji briefed Komatsubara at Hailar, expressing Ueda's trust while pressing to redeem May's failures. Limited pontoon capacity would not support armor; the operation would be vulnerable to air power. Tsuji's reconnaissance detected Soviet air presence at Tamsag Bulak, prompting a preemptive strike and another plan adjustment. KwAHQ informed Tokyo of the offensive in vague terms (citing raids but withholding air details). Even this caused debate; Minister Seishiro Itagaki supported Ueda's stance, favoring a limited operation to ease nerves. Tokyo concurred, unaware of the air plans. Fearing a veto on the Tamsag Bulak raid (nearly 100 miles behind MPR lines), KwAHQ shielded details from the Soviets and Tokyo. A June 29–30 ground attack was prepared; orders were relayed by courier. The leak reached Tokyo on June 24. Deputy Chief General Tetsuzo Nakajima telegrammed three points: 1) AGS policy to contain the conflict and avoid West MPR air attacks;  2) bombing risks escalation;  3) sending Lieutenant Colonel Yadoru Arisue on June 25 for liaison. Polite Japanese diplomatic phrasing allowed Operations to interpret the message as a suggestion. To preempt Arisue's explicit orders, Tsuji urged secrecy from Ueda, Isogai, and Yano, and an advanced raid to June 27. Arisue arrived after the raid on Tamsag Bulak and Bain Tumen (deeper into MPR territory, now near Choibalsan). The Raid resulted in approximately 120 Japanese planes surprising the Soviets, grounding and destroying aircraft and scrambling their defense. Tsuji, flying in a bomber, claimed 25 aircraft destroyed on the ground and about 100 in the air. Official tallies reported 98 destroyed and 51 damaged; ground kills estimated at 50 to 60 at Bain Tumen. Japanese losses were relatively light: one bomber, two fighters, one scout; seven dead. Another Japanese bomber was shot down over MPR, but the crew was rescued. The raid secured air superiority for July.   Moscow raged over the losses and the perceived failure to warn in time. In the purge era, blame fell on suspected spies and traitors; Deputy Mongolian Commander Luvsandonoi and ex-57th Deputy A. M. Kushchev were accused, arrested, and sent to Moscow. Luvsandonoi was executed; Kushchev received a four-year sentence, later rising to major general and Hero. KwAHQ celebrated; Operations notified AGS by radio. Colonel Masazumi Inada rebuked: "You damned idiot! What do you think the true meaning of this little success is?" A withering reprimand followed. Stunned but unrepentant, KwAHQ soon received Tokyo's formal reprimand: "Report was received today regarding bombing of Outer Mongolian territory by your air units… . Since this action is in fundamental disagreement with policy which we understood your army was taking to settle incident, it is extremely regretted that advance notice of your intent was not received. Needless to say, this matter is attended with such farreaching consequences that it can by no means be left to your unilateral decision. Hereafter, existing policy will be definitely and strictly observed. It is requested that air attack program be discontinued immediately" By Order of the Chief of Staff  By this time, Kwantung Army staff officers stood in high dudgeon. Tsuji later wrote that "tremendous combat results were achieved by carrying out dangerous operations at the risk of our lives. It is perfectly clear that we were carrying out an act of retaliation. What kind of General Staff ignores the psychology of the front lines and tramples on their feelings?" Tsuji drafted a caustic reply, which Kwantung Army commanders sent back to Tokyo, apparently without Ueda or other senior KwAHQ officers' knowledge: "There appear to be certain differences between the Army General Staff and this Army in evaluating the battlefield situation and the measures to be adopted. It is requested that the handling of trivial border-area matters be entrusted to this Army." That sarcastic note from KwAHQ left a deep impression at AGS, which felt something had to be done to restore discipline and order. When General Nakajima informed the Throne about the air raid, the emperor rebuked him and asked who would assume responsibility for the unauthorized attack. Nakajima replied that military operations were ongoing, but that appropriate measures would be taken after this phase ended. Inada sent Terada a telegram implying that the Kwantung Army staff officers responsible would be sacked in due course. Inada pressed to have Tsuji ousted from Kwantung Army immediately, but personnel matters went through the Army Ministry, and Army Minister Itagaki, who knew Tsuji personally, defended him. Tokyo recognized that the situation was delicate; since 1932, Kwantung Army had operated under an Imperial Order to "defend Manchukuo," a broad mandate. Opinions differed in AGS about how best to curb Kwantung Army's operational prerogatives. One idea was to secure Imperial sanction for a new directive limiting Kwantung Army's autonomous combat actions to no more than one regiment. Several other plans circulated. In the meantime, Kwantung Army needed tighter control. On June 29, AGS issued firm instructions to KwAHQ: Directives: a) Kwantung Army is responsible for local settlement of border disputes. b) Areas where the border is disputed, or where defense is tactically unfeasible, need not be defended. Orders: c) Ground combat will be limited to the border region between Manchukuo and Outer Mongolia east of Lake Buir Nor. d) Enemy bases will not be attacked from the air. With this heated exchange of messages, the relationship between Kwantung Army and AGS reached a critical moment. Tsuji called it the "breaking point" between Hsinking and Tokyo. According to Colonel Inada, after this "air raid squabble," gekokujo became much more pronounced in Hsinking, especially within Kwantung Army's Operations Section, which "ceased making meaningful reports" to the AGS Operations Section, which he headed. At KwAHQ, the controversy and the perception of AGS interference in local affairs hardened the resolve of wavering staff officers to move decisively against the USSR. Thereafter, Kwantung Army officers as a group rejected the General Staff's policy of moderation in the Nomonhan incident. Tsuji characterized the conflict between Kwantung Army and the General Staff as the classic clash between combat officers and "desk jockeys." In his view, AGS advocated a policy of not invading enemy territory even if one's own territory was invaded, while Kwantung Army's policy was not to allow invasion. Describing the mindset of the Kwantung Army (and his own) toward the USSR in this border dispute, Tsuji invoked the samurai warrior's warning: "Do not step any closer or I shall be forced to cut you down." Tsuji argued that Kwantung Army had to act firmly at Nomonhan to avoid a larger war later. He also stressed the importance, shared by him and his colleagues, of Kwantung Army maintaining its dignity, which he believed was threatened by both enemy actions and the General Staff. In this emotionally charged atmosphere, the Kwantung Army launched its July offensive. The success of the 2nd Air Group's attack on Tamsag Bulak further inflated KwAHQ's confidence in the upcoming offensive. Although aerial reconnaissance had been intentionally limited to avoid alarming or forewarning the enemy, some scout missions were flown. The scouts reported numerous tank emplacements under construction, though most reports noted few tanks; a single report of large numbers of tanks was downplayed at headquarters. What drew major attention at KwAHQ were reports of large numbers of trucks leaving the front daily and streaming westward into the Mongolian interior. This was interpreted as evidence of a Soviet pullback from forward positions, suggesting the enemy might sense the imminent assault. Orders were issued to speed up final preparations for the assault before Soviet forces could withdraw from the area where the Japanese "meat cleaver" would soon dismember them. What the Japanese scouts had actually observed was not a Soviet withdrawal, but part of a massive truck shuttle that General Grigori Shtern, now commander of Soviet Forces in the Far East, organized to support Zhukov. Each night, Soviet trucks, from distant MPR railway depots to Tamsag Bulak and the combat zone, moved eastward with lights dimmed, carrying supplies and reinforcements. By day, the trucks returned westward for fresh loads. It was these returning trucks, mostly empty, that the Japanese scouts sighted. The Kwantung interpretation of this mass westbound traffic was a serious error, though understandable. The Soviet side was largely ignorant of Japanese preparations, partly because the June 27 air raid had disrupted Soviet air operations, including reconnaissance. In late June, the 23rd Division and Yasuoka's tank force moved from Hailar and Chiangchunmiao toward Nomonhan. A mix of military and civilian vehicles pressed into service, but there was still insufficient motorized transport to move all troops and equipment at once. Most infantry marched the 120 miles to the combat zone, under a hot sun, carrying eighty-pound loads. They arrived after four to six days with little time to recover before the scheduled assault. With Komatsubara's combined force of about 15,000 men, 120 guns, and 70 tanks poised to attack, Kwantung Army estimated Soviet-MPR strength near Nomonhan and the Halha River at about 1,000 men, perhaps ten anti-aircraft guns, ten artillery pieces, and several dozen tanks. In reality, Japanese air activity, especially the big raid of June 27, had put the Soviets on alert. Zhukov suspected a ground attack might occur, though nothing as audacious as a large-scale crossing of the Halha was anticipated. During the night of July 1, Zhukov moved his 11th Tank Brigade, 7th Mechanized Brigade, and 24th Mechanized Infantry Regiment (36th Division) from their staging area near Tamsag Bulak to positions just west of the Halha River. Powerful forces on both sides were being marshaled with little knowledge of the enemy's disposition. As the sun scorched the Mongolian steppes, the stage was set for a clash that would echo through history. General Komatsubara's 23rd Division, bolstered by Yasuoka's armored might and the skies commanded by Gigi's air group, crept toward the Halha River like a predator in the night. Fifteen thousand Japanese warriors, their boots heavy with dust and resolve, prepared to cross the disputed waters and crush what they believed was a faltering foe. Little did they know, Zhukov's reinforcements, tanks rumbling like thunder, mechanized brigades poised in the shadows, had transformed the frontier into a fortress of steel. Miscalculations piled like sand dunes: Japanese scouts mistook supply convoys for retreats, while Soviet eyes, blinded by the June raid, underestimated the impending storm. Kwantung's gekokujo spirit burned bright, defying Tokyo's cautions, as both sides hurtled toward a brutal reckoning. What began as border skirmishes now threatened to erupt into full-scale war, testing the mettle of empires on the edge. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. Patrols in May led to failed Japanese offensives, like Colonel Yamagata's disastrous assault and the Azuma detachment's annihilation. Tensions rose with air raids, including Japan's June strike on Soviet bases. By July, misjudged intelligence set the stage for a major confrontation, testing imperial ambitions amid global war clouds.

In this engaging conversation, Kavin Chawla shares his journey as an abstract photographer, discussing how his upbringing in Thailand and experiences in nature have shaped his artistic vision. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity, playfulness, and embracing imperfection in photography. Kavin also reflects on the meditative aspects of being in nature and how it influences his creative process. He encourages aspiring photographers to stay true to their unique vision while drawing inspiration from others. As he prepares to launch his website, Kavin contemplates how to present his work authentically, moving away from conventional styles. The discussion concludes with recommendations for fellow photographers who embody similar values in their work. Links and Recommended Photographers: Kavin Chawla: Instagram Support the show on Patreon The Colorado Way book Natural Landscape Photography Awards (NLPA) Richard Martin: Wabi Sabi gallery Brent Clark's Website Michael Shainblum David Southern Robert Hecht: Instagram Jack Krohn: Instagram Scott Oller: Instagram Eric Bennett Matt Payne / Sean Tucker: Podcast Brooks Jensen: LensWork Erik Malm: Instagram

Coral reefs can still show living coral cover and yet be ecologically collapsing beneath the surface. In this episode, we break down new coast-to-coast reef assessments from Thailand that reveal a critical warning sign: reefs are losing structural complexity even when coral is still present. Structural complexity, also known as rugosity, is what gives reefs their three-dimensional shape. That shape creates habitat for fish, supports predator-prey balance, fuels biodiversity, and protects coastlines from storms. New research published in Science and Nature Climate Change shows that repeated bleaching events and chronic stress are flattening reef architecture, reducing resilience and weakening ecosystem function long before coral disappears completely. This episode explains why coral cover alone is no longer enough to measure reef health, what structural degradation means for fisheries and coastal communities, and how monitoring needs to evolve if we want real conservation progress.   Follow the show for clear, science-based ocean updates every weekday.   Support Independent Podcasts: https://www.speakupforblue.com/patreon Help fund a new seagrass podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/seagrass Join the Undertow: https://www.speakupforblue.com/jointheundertow Connect with Speak Up For Blue Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube