CaucasTalk: Recent Episodes
Andrew & Eli
Well, “all good things must come to an end,” as they say. (Even though this isn’t actually true.) It has been our singular privilege and joy to bring you CaucasTalk for the last 4+ years, and we are struck to the heart to say goodbye. Our life situations have made it such that a) we … Continue reading "CT114 – 😭 End of the Road! 😭 | FINAL EPISODE | Lessons Learned | Listener Statistics | Words of “Wisdom” | Farewell from Andrew & Eli"
A Happy New Year note—with some news minutes—from yours truly at CaucasTalk! Tahseen from Rise’n’Glide: https://caucastalk.com/episode67
After three years of hanging in the wings just listening to CaucasTalk, Abdurahim finally steps up to the mic to represent his beautiful Dagestani people group, the Aghuls. (Thanks to some arm-twisting from Andrew 🙂 The Aghuls hail from the southern midlands of Dagestan and, like many people groups, they lack strong resources for their … Continue reading "CT113 – Aghuls: In Their Own Words! | Losing One’s Own Language | Language Recovery & Advocacy | Avgaz.app"
How does a truck driver from Wisconsin become a champion of local cultural developing a rural mountain valley in the North Caucasus? Matt Johnson tells us today, not only of his several and often hair-raising ascents of Mt. Elbrus one many of the six routes—including lightning storms, crevasses, and a mountain rescue—but much more about … Continue reading "CT112 – Elbrus Alpine Foundation: Matt Johnson on the West Face of Elbrus | Locally-Led Development | Lightning, Crevasses & Avalanches | Mountain Rescue | KLM Fail!"
Who are the Cossacks? And what is their connection to the North Caucasus? The fascinating history of this group of “free men” become warrior caste interweaves with the history of the whole region. Our good friend (and Chislic Festival champion) Ian Tuttle eloquently unpacks the birth, rise, and continued existence of this people and their … Continue reading "CT111 – Who Are the Cossacks? with Ian Tuttle | Military Caste | Cossack Saber Manual | Foreign Accents"
If there’s one topic that gets the blood stirring of the today’s young folk, it’s old age! Or… not. Actually, the fact that’s funny tells us in the West a whole lot about our own cultural views on this very important topic. And would you believe there are places in the world where this topic … Continue reading "CT110 – Old Age in the North Caucasus | Centenarians | Dannon Yogurt | CaucasTalk in Print!"
Education is a deeply-held value embedded in families and throughout the North Caucasus. From early childhood through the university years, high levels of academic achievement are considered “normal,” according to our guest today. Madina from Ingushetia shares about her personal experience growing up as a student, and now as a top English tutor in Ingushetia. … Continue reading "CT109 – Education in the North Caucasus | Madina, English Teacher from Ingushetia | Tutoring | ЕГЭ & SATs | Local Languages in Schooling"
The Dargin people inhabit mainly the middle latitudes of Dagestan, from the foothills up into the mountains. As our knowledgeable and articulate guest today, Saida, shares with us, the word “Dargin” means “inside,” as in deep in the mountains, and that is where this people can be found. Their traditions range and vary from embroidery … Continue reading "CT108 – Dargin: In Their Own Words! | “My roots were calling me” | Embroidery | Ancient Armor | Child Exchanges"
Louisa the Lezginka shares today about the—you guessed it—Lezgin people! And yes, for those of you wondering (like Andrew), the word “Lezginka” refers not only to the Caucasus-wide national dance, but actually is the term for female members of the Lezgin nation. Louisa hails from the ancient and venerable city of Derbent and gives us … Continue reading "CT107 – Lezgins: In Their Own Words! | The Lezginka | Southern Dagestan | A Folk Song! | Shalbuzdag | Tasty Tea"
We’ve talked lots about food on this podcast, but what about the actual experience of getting it? The act of dining out in the North Caucasus brings with it a whole host of quirks, habits, and cultural expectations that may be every bit as unfamiliar as the food. Join us as we “dig in” in … Continue reading "CT106 – Dining Out in the North Caucasus | Décor | Napkins | Play Places | Pizza & Sushi | “The Button”"
When you hear the word “retirement,” what comes to mind? Collecting shells on a beach? Sitting with an armload of grandkids? To some it means a life of independence facilitated through professional care. For others, it’s receiving with honor the support of children and family. Whatever the vision, our care for the elderly in our … Continue reading "CT105 – Retirement in the North Caucasus | Independent Living vs. Orphaned Parents? | Status Ascribed vs. Status Achieved"
While holidays may seem to be predictable parts of our cultures, dig a little deeper and they contain a treasure trove of insights and wonder. Holidays in the North Caucasus are no different. Today we attempt a fly-over of the 50+ primary holidays celebrated annually across the region. Some are Russian, some are religious, some … Continue reading "CT104 – Holidays in the North Caucasus | Igby | Rival Podcast?? | Shout Outs!"
Today’s double episode [re-release of episode 27A & 27B] is truly a tour de force. In this our second installment of “In Their Own Words,” our good friends Tembulat & Zalina take us on a deep dive into the very heart of Circassian / Kabardian culture. Not only musicians, this couple also hand makes instruments … Continue reading "CT103 – Kabardians: In Their Own Words! | Tembulat & Zalina Champion Circassian Culture & Language | 🎵 Live Music! 🎵 | Sister Cities"
Rock climbing is alive and well in the North Caucasus. In an environment in which a few sports are exalted above all others, rock climbing has begun to offer an alternative activity for all ages. Teddy shares today about his involvement with On Sight rock climbing gym and community center in Nalchik, the capital of … Continue reading "CT102 – “On Sight” Climbing Gym in Nalchik: Interview with Teddy | Community Development | Undeveloped Rock Climbing | Gerontology"
Without a doubt, our most popular series has been “In Their Own Words,” in which we give you our listeners a chance to hear from the peoples of the North Caucasus directly. Not long ago we decided to try for one interview with every one of the 34 official languages of Dagestan—and some say there … Continue reading "CT101 – Tabasaran: In Their Own Words! | World’s Most Complex Language | Multilingualism | Carpet making"
When you hear, “business startup,” your mind may go to Silicon Valley, Y Combinator, and high risk investments. Well now you can add to your list Dagestan’s very own business accelerator, IARD — the Innovation Accelerator of the Republic of Dagestan — run by our new friend Vali. Vali shares about the incredible surge in entrepreneurship … Continue reading "CT100 – Business Accelerator IARD in Dagestan: Interview with Vali | Community Investment Funds | Lak Nation | Village Trash Clean-Up"
A young man of only 20 years, Magomed is already making lasting change for his minority Dagestani language group, the Kaitag. Most people have never heard of the 20,000 speakers of Kaitag, and yet Magomed is advocating on the international stage to get his language officially recognized. Possibly most instructive is the way Magomed has … Continue reading "CT99 – Kaitag: In Their Own Words | Endangered Languages | Dargwa Dialects of Dagestan | Achieving International Recognition of a Language"
BeyondRedSquare Virtual Tours Website In the spirit of “sticking it to Covid,” today Andrew unveils a brand new, unique offering from his tour company, Beyond Red Square: Virtual Tours! Six virtual tours are offered: Virtual Dagestan Virtual Chechnya Virtual Mt. Elbrus Climb Virtual Caucasus Mountain Adventures Virtual Soviet Vacation (Caucasus Mineral Waters Region) Virtual Moscow … Continue reading "CT96 – Announcing: Virtual Tours to the North Caucasus! | 60-minute Interactive Online Experiences | Beyond Red Square"
“Every time a language dies, it’s like someone just dropped a bomb on the Louvre.” The treasures contained in a human language cannot be overestimated, according to Dr. Daniel Wilson, linguist and language technology pioneer. A research fellow at the University of the Free State, South Africa, and Moscow resident, Daniel has been living in … Continue reading "CT98 – Interview: Dr. Daniel Wilson on the Didoi & Tsez in Dagestan | XRI Institute | Language Technology"
Have you gotten the impression that the only options for sports in the North Caucasus are skiing and wrestling? We’re here today with Misha to put that misconception to rest. Misha left his profession as a lawyer to introduce tourists to the wonderful adventures awaiting the willing-hearted in the North Caucasus. Working with his wife, … Continue reading "CT97 – Top 10 Extreme Sport Adventures in the NC | Interview with Misha from M&M’s Tours | Rope Jumping | Arctic Surfing"
LINKS to MUSIC BELOW!! 👇 Riddle: What do you get when you cross Circassian death metal, two-stringed fiddles, sharp ears and a big heart? The audiological phenomenon—and our friends—known as Ored Recordings. For over a decade Ored founders Bulat Khalilov and Timur Kodzoko have been on the hunt for local sounds of the North Caucasus. … Continue reading "CT95 – Interview: Punk Ethnographer Bulat Khalilov | Ored Recordings | “Live Tradition” | Music Samples Included!"
At long last, the stars aligned and not only did we record our first in-person recording session since 2019, but we brought our wonderful WIVES with us! Hollie and Cristi share from their years of mothering in the North Caucasus a taste of what it has been like for them. From birth stories to playground … Continue reading "CT93 & 94 – Our Wives Speak Out! Birth & Child-rearing in the Caucasus: Interview with Hollie & Cristi | Birth stories | Cross-Cultural Mothering"
Hava is many things—an Ingush mother, a beloved grandmother, but also an entrepreneur who has opened two 5-star hotels, a polyglot, and an artisan. Most interesting, perhaps, is her artisanal work with fish leather. Yes, you read that right—tanned fish skin. Under the tutelage of another Ingush innovator, Hava tans the skins of sturgeon, salmon, … Continue reading "CT92 – Interview with Hava: Ingush Entrepreneur | Squid Handbags | Fish Leather Lamps | 4-Star Hotels"
Welcome back to a new year of CaucasTalk! For our first episode back after our break, we were dazzled and privileged to interview three of the North Caucasus’ own female Fulbright Scholars. These young women all studied and taught for a year or more in the US and are now back in the Russia determined … Continue reading "CT91 – Interview with Three Female Fulbright Scholars from the North Caucasus | Living in the USA | “Go Hilltoppers!”"
We’ve done it! We’ve come to the end of the year, and what a year it has been. While the ride has been bumpy for all of us, we actually are grateful for growth and progress of CaucasTalk. We want to give a great, big shout out of thanks to you our listeners, Facebook commenters, … Continue reading "CT90 – End of 2020 | Year in Review | Farewell “Dame Covidia” | Newsletter Sign Up!"
Was it Bill Cosby who said that kids say the darndest things? This has always been true, and as it is our goal to give our listeners the most unfiltered view of the North Caucasus, what could be better, we thought, than hearing from our own children? Rather than sick all eight of them on … Continue reading "CT89 – Kids’ Interview! | All about Life in the North Caucasus | Favorite Foods | Playground Wrestling | Quiz"
Allow us to take you for a ride today—literally. As of the last month, both your CaucasTalk hosts have become proud car owners. This means we have gained first-hand driving experience in the North Caucasus. And this is no small thing. In fact, it’s incredible. We both feel extremely awesome and are loving the freedom … Continue reading "CT88 – Driving in the North Caucasus | “The Circles of Stress” | Bukhankas | Leaning on Local Friends"
We love to share with our listeners what life is like in the Caucasus today. But it’s also important to hear what life was like at other times. Elina, a Russian born and raised in pre-war Grozny, Chechnya, shares with us today what life during her childhood was like. If you’ve only learned about Chechnya … Continue reading "CT87 – Growing Up in Grozny | Interview with Elina from Pyatigorsk on Life in Pre-War Chechnya | Big Announcement from Eli"
History was made yet again last Saturday night when Khabib Nurmagomedov defended his undefeated record as the undisputed UFC lightweight champion of the world. He choked out American interim UFC champion Justin Gaethje in the second round to bring his record to 29-0. What followed the fight was as stunning as the fight itself as … Continue reading "CT86 – UFC 254: Khabib vs. Gaethje | Khabib Retires | Legacy of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov | Do Caucasus Men Cry?"
We give to you one of our most popular episodes ever – Music in the North Caucasus (Episode 13, December 15, 2017). It’s got some of the most listens of any of our shows. Check out the original shownotes: This episode is the proverbial tip of the iceberg. It’s a lump on the tip of … Continue reading "CT85 – Music in the North Caucasus | Local Instruments | Rasul Gamzatov | EPIC REVEAL: Andrew Sings!"
The tables are flipped this week: We want YOU to do the talking. It’s Feedback Week here at CaucasTalk and we want to hear from you. Help us direct the future of the podcast. This year has thrown so much into flux and we’ve all had to make changes. CaucasTalk is no exception. We are … Continue reading "CT84 – FEEDBACK WEEK!! | Survey & Questionnaire! | Let your voice be heard | Direct the future of the Podcast | Join the newsletter"
While religion may be a tender subject to bring up in mixed company in some parts of the world, in the North Caucasus, it’s unavoidable. Hardly a day goes by that we don’t talk religion with one friend or another. To understand the Caucasus, then, is to talk—and listen, and hear, and think—about religion. Over … Continue reading "CT83 – Religion in the North Caucasus PART 3/3 | Religion Today | Nuances | Religion & Tradition"
Today’s conversation dwells on the multiplicity of religious influences that entered Dagestan through the ancient city of Derbent, as well as through the Western Caucasus. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all had established presences here at various times and much architecture remains to show it. While religion may be a tender subject to bring up in … Continue reading "CT82 – Religion in the North Caucasus PART 2/3 | Mountain Jews | Derbent Juma Mosque | Sentinsky Church, Karachay-Cherkessia"
While religion may be a tender subject to bring up in mixed company in some parts of the world, in the North Caucasus it’s unavoidable. Hardly a day goes by that we don’t talk religion with one friend or another. To understand the Caucasus, then, is to talk—and listen, and hear, and think—about religion. Over … Continue reading "CT81 – Religion in the North Caucasus PART 1/3 | Overview of Religion | Focus on Islam | Star Wars and KBR"
Got a rumbling in the tummy? Eyes aching? Liver flagging? Lungs languishing? The North Caucasus region has a solution for you: stinky water. That’s right, good old fashioned olfactory mineral water bubbling up from the depths just may have what you need to wash your ailments away. Not only that, a whole cluster of cities … Continue reading "CT80 – The Wonderful World of Waters: Interview with Teacher and Mineral Water Enthusiast Roman! | Watery Neck-Dangling | Khabib vs. Gaethje UFC 255"
Let’s be honest: some of us like to buy books, but others of us like to actually read them. Today we hear from a true bibliophile and, what shall we say, Kavkazophile—a lover of books and the Caucasus. Ian Tuttle, once an exchange student between Hastings College in Nebraska and Pyatigorsk State University, shares with … Continue reading "CT79B – Top 10 Books on the North Caucasus | Interview with Ian Tuttle, Caucasus Fanatic and Bibliophile | PART B"
Let’s be honest: some of us like to buy books, but others of us like to actually read them. Today we hear from a true bibliophile and, what shall we say, Kavkazophile—a lover of books and the Caucasus. Ian Tuttle, once an exchange student between Hastings College in Nebraska and Pyatigorsk State University, shares with … Continue reading "CT79A – Top 10 Books on the North Caucasus | Interview with Ian Tuttle, Caucasus Fanatic and Bibliophile | PART A"
Emre Basok is a Turkish-born Circassian pursuing his PhD in Ohio. He studies how language supports identity and heritage and has recently turned his interests to his roots. He comes in as the third of our Circassian guest this summer and brings even more depth to the textured and colorful history of the Circassian diaspora. … Continue reading "CT78 – Interview with Emre Basok, PhD. | Circassian Language Identity & Maintenance in Turkey | Bi-Literacy | Circassian Benevolent Association | UNESCO"
David Shawgen is the founder of Circassologia, an information portal devoted to the culture, history, and future of the Circassian people. He also works at a Circassian History Museum. What you might not expect is that this museum is located in Israel! David shares how his people came to exist in Israel—along with Syria, Jordan, … Continue reading "CT77 – Circassian Diaspora in Israel | Interview with David Shawgen | Research Fellow at Circassiologia | The NC’s Newest McDonalds"
Do you love driving? Do you love breathtaking vistas? How about a little adventure, a few bumps, and a lot of fun? And would you like all of that on a tour of Dagestan? Then meet Off-Road Camper, Dagestan’s only luxury off-road tour company. They put you behind the wheel of a classic Soviet-style “bukhanka,” … Continue reading "CT76 – Offroad Camper Russia with Andreas & Sveta | УАЗ Буханка / UAZ Bukhanka Car Camping in Dagestan"
Here is the continuation and conclusion of our interview with Circassian cultural champion, YouTube creator, and founder of ELAJ skincare products, Suhein Beck. ——————-Once in a while, you run across a true cultural champion. For the Circassian nation, today’s interview guest Suhein Beck is such a champion. Her nearly nomadic upbringing has produced in her … Continue reading "CT75 – Interview with Suhein Beck, Circassian Cultural Champion PART II | ELAJ Skin Care | Lezginka in the USA"
Once in a while, you run across a true cultural champion. For the Circassian nation, today’s interview guest Suhein Beck is such a champion. Her nearly nomadic past produced in her an eclectic present. From media production to skin care products, Beck brings her heritage to bear on life today, remixing ancient traditions with current … Continue reading "CT74 – Interview with Mover and Shaker Suhein Beck PART I | Circassian Cultural Champion | Migration from Syria to Turkey to USA"
SEE VIDEOS ON CAUCASTALK WEBSITESummer is nearly here, and in the North Caucasus one thing that means is weddings. (Well, usually it does. Not so much these days.) Lines of white cars decked with flowers and ribbons careening through the city, horns blaring. Massive gatherings around massive piles of food. Fiery Lezginka dancing, tons of … Continue reading "CT73 – Weddings in the North Caucasus | Life Cycle Events | Videos"
Today’s episode comes to you out of the same quarantine many of you our listeners are in. Responses to COVID have varied significantly across the North Caucasus. Some republics are getting hit much harder than others. But amid the struggles, we share about good-will relief projects popping up everywhere. We share about how our local … Continue reading "CT72 – COVID in the Caucasus | Local Relief Projects | Airplane Food at Home | Man Runs Marathon in Bedroom"
Next month marks 75 years since the end of WWII. Its devastating effects touched every corner of Europe, but many are surprised to learn that the North Caucasus are no exception. Nazi forces aimed as far as oil fields in Chechnya in the east to fuel their forces as well as the ports of the … Continue reading "CT71 – Commemorating WWII in the North Caucasus | Nazis on Mt. Elbrus | Santa Claus in the Caucasus"
PLEASE CONSIDER SUPPORTING OUR GOFUNDME CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT CAUCASUS FAMILIES IN NEED https://www.gofundme.com/f/coronavirus-in-the-north-caucasus We often find ourselves explaining to people that we are not the only foreigners living here in the North Caucasus, or in Russia, for that matter. Since last year we’ve been corresponding with our now friend, Felix, a writer, traveler, and scholar … Continue reading "CT70 – Interview with Trekker, Scholar, Writer Felix Light | Expats in Moscow | GoFundMe for Local Families in Need"
Whether you live in Dagestan or Denver, Dubai or Des Moines, being a dad takes some special skills and wisdom. Andrew and Eli combine their collective years of experience “dadding” to bring you insider tips and tricks needed for sparkling success parenting in the North Caucasus. As with the rest of everyday life, the mundane … Continue reading "CT69 – A Day in the Caucasus Life #5: Dadding in Dagestan | Tools, Skills, & Special Abilities"
Just when you thought daily life couldn’t get more interesting—we bring you our fourth installment of “A Day in the Caucasus Life.” It’s a truism that you can’t see what you can’t see—that is, until you look. This couldn’t be truer of culture. So much is hidden in plain sight, if we’ll only have the … Continue reading "CT68 – A Day in the Caucasus Life #4: Things People Say | How to Become an Ethnographer | Ingush Wedding Story"
One thing we love about living in the North Caucasus is meeting other foreigners connected to the region. Most who we meet have real passion and interest in this place and its peoples. Today we talk with one man with unusually strong commitment for Dagestan. Tahseen is the founder of Rise ’N Glide, the first-ever … Continue reading "CT67 – Rise ‘N Glide: American Sports Tourism in Dagestan | CT Back for 2020 | Announcement!"
Dear Listeners, what a year! Thank you for journeying with us for our third calendar year! We have some exciting Patreon news to share, plus Andrew unveils brand new, hot-off-the-presses custom tours with Beyond Red Square. And as rest is a part of work, we are taking January and February of 2020 totally off from … Continue reading "CT 2019 Year-End Wrap Up! Patreon Update | BRS Custom Tours for 2020 | Happy New Year from CaucasTalk!!"
If you can’t find Adygea (Adyghea/Adygheya) on a map, or if you never knew that sub-tropical forests grow in the North Caucasus, you’re not alone! Looking for soft rolling forests, deep caves, train rides, and famous cheese? Consider Adygea. One of the most remote republics in the region, it stretches from the north side of … Continue reading "CT66 – Travel Tips: Adygea! Sub-Tropical Hikes | Caverns | Cheese"
They say that good things come in small packages. That is undeniably true of Ingushetia, the smallest of the North Caucasus Republics. If you’ve been hearing about this place (which you have if you’ve been listening to us!) and are ready to strike out on your own, today’s Travel Tip is for you. Andrew gets … Continue reading "CT65 – Travel Tip: Ingushetia! Legends of the Mountains | Magas | Nazran | Tower Complexes"
Paying bills has never been so entertaining! Andrew and Eli regale us with tales of trial and triumph as they travail to get things done from the depths of unfathomable bureaucracy. Yet even there we find that people are people, a smile does wonders, and life can be hacked, even in Russia. We’re sure today’s … Continue reading "CT64 – A Day in the Caucasus Life #3: Getting Things Done (or Not) | Line-Standing Etiquette, Document Drama, Aposti-what?, “The Look of Mercy”"
This episode will take you for a ride… on public transportation! And it’s a heck of a lot more interesting than it may seem. With deftness and penetrating insight—and quite a bit of experience—Andrew and Eli examine some of the more colorful aspects of Caucasus life on buses, trams, trolleys, and the ever ubiquitous marshrutkas. … Continue reading "CT63 – A Day in the Caucasus Life #2: Public Transport | The People In Our Neighborhood"
Some of the most mundane places we visit in daily life can actually teach us the most about ourselves if we look closely. Come with us as we visit some everyday places in the North Caucasus and unpack a bit of what they’re about. We think you’ll agree that there’s more than meets the eye! … Continue reading "CT62 – A Day in the Caucasus Life: Playgrounds | The Oldest Postal Woman | Patreon Update | Unveiling BRS Cultural Tours!"
If there’s one thing the Caucasus is not short on, its complexity. Complexity of languages, cultures, borders, history, politics, religion, even food! But if there’s one thing that balances that complexity—or maybe just outweighs it—it’s beauty. In Episodes 60 and 61 we take a dip into two of these fabulously complex and equally lovely regions: … Continue reading "CT61 – South Ossetia | Dima from Caucasus Explorer!"
If there’s one thing the Caucasus is not short on, its complexity. Complexity of languages, cultures, borders, history, politics, religion, even food! But if there’s one thing that balances that complexity—or maybe just outweighs it—it’s beauty. In Episodes 60 and 61 we take a dip into two of these fabulously complex and equally lovely regions: … Continue reading "CT60 – Abkhazia | “The Caucasus Changed Me” | Dima from Caucasus Explorer!"
“Shurpa without ayran is like throwing your money to the wind.”—Rashid the Wise If you want to know the delicious meaning of this proverb—and you should—just listen to today’s dive into Karachay-Cherkessia Republic. Back in the studio we welcome Rashid (see Episode 23) and this guy, well, he just knows everything. Mountain destinations for the … Continue reading "CT59 – Travel Tips: Karachay-Cherkessia! Beyond Dombay | Unsung Arkhyz | Lovely Kislovodsk | Best Hotels | Salty-Bubbly Yogurt Drink"
Interest in Chechnya is at an all-time high. It is an ancient, fascinating, complex, and little understood place. Our good friend Abdula, local tour guide and couch surfing host, takes us on a virtual tour of his homeland. He delivers expert tips on where to stay, what to eat, and places not to miss. Many … Continue reading "CT58 – Travel Tips: Chechnya! Heart of Chechnya Mosque | Lake Kezenoi-Am | Chepulgash"
Houston, the eagle has landed . . . in Dagestan! Today’s episode comes to you live (we love saying that) from the sunny shores of the Caspian Sea. There half of our team has permanently relocated! Our podcast now officially straddles the Caucasus range. LOTS of good stuff is happening over here. First, Eli unveils his … Continue reading "CT57 – Presenting: Apricot Media & Consulting | Patreon | Logo | Khabib v. Poirier"
We continue our Trans-Caucasus tour with another visit “south of the border,” this time to Georgia. (The country.) Our guest Giorgi actually takes his name from his motherland. An aspiring ethnologist, Giorgi skillfully traces many historical and cultural lines that have given rise to the character of this fascinating country today. Georgia stands out as … Continue reading "CT55 – Georgia: In Their Own Words! with Giorgi the Surprise Ethnologist!"
While not physically in the North Caucasus, the influence of Azerbaijan can be felt throughout region. Stretching from snow-capped mountains to subtropical citrus groves, it is a country of complex history and rich diversity. Today we enjoy the privilege of hearing from a young Azeri tour guide, Tural Omarov, as well as some clips of … Continue reading "CT54 – Azerbaijan: In Their Own Words! | Oil Baths, Mountains, Beaches, and More"
“In Russia, walking is exalted and extraordinary. It is not mundane. I’m not talking about the word ‘to walk’ (khodit), a verb that merely signifies moving from place to place by foot. This is about the holy of holies in Russian which is to gulyat . . .” Yes, in today’s episode we dip into that … Continue reading "CT53 – “Gulyat-ing”: The Essential Russian Pastime"
If Elbrus is the crown jewel of the Caucasus, Dagestan has to be the treasure chest. And who to better unpack that for us than our guest today Vladimir Sevrinovsky. A National Geographic editor and photographer, a filmmaker, writer, and tour guide, Vladimir has canvased Dagestan for years and knows it inside and out. And … Continue reading "CT52 – Travel Tips: Dagestan! With National Geographic Photographer Vladimir Sevrinovsky"
North Ossetia, like its crown jewel capital city Vladikavkaz, sparkles like a small gem in the North Caucasus. Tucked in at the feet of some of the most spectacular mountains in the range, it offers a spread of options to travelers. Tourists may enjoy the history and local flavor of Vladikavkaz, or prefer alpine hikes … Continue reading "CT51 – Travel Tips: North Ossetia! Vladikavkaz | Dargavs | Midagrabin Falls | Ossetian Pies!"
Listeners, thanks to your partnership, we have reached our 50th episode! For this our golden episode (hence the background color) today’s interview could not be more appropriate. Dr. Maria Polinsky, a professor at the University of Maryland, shares about her deep linguistic work on Dagestani languages, specifically Tsez/Didoi. Little else captures the heart and soul … Continue reading "CT 50 – The Dazzling Languages of Dagestan with Dr. Maria Polinsky"
The Nart sagas lie like bedrock, or like groundwater, deep under the surface of the cultures here in the Caucasus. It is our immense privilege to welcome our esteemed guest Dr. John Colarusso to the podcast today. Dr. Colarusso ranks as the world’s leading expert on the Narts. He is the only person to have … Continue reading "CT49 – Dr. John Colarusso on the Narts Sagas"
Where can you find gentle wooded mountains, miles of walking paths, sulfur baths, bubbly mineral waters, food from every part of the Caucasus, and the original Lobster Man? Welcome to the Caucasus Mineral Waters Region. Today’s Travel Tips come from yours, truly. We love and are proud of our little corner of the Caucasus. It’s … Continue reading "CT48 – Travel Tips: Caucasus Mineral Waters! Mineralnye Vody, Pyatigorsk, Kislovodsk, Essentukie, & Zheleznovodsk | MRV Airport"
If you’re looking for expert advice on travel in Kabardino-Balkaria, today’s Travel Tips are for you. We are joined once again by our good friend Shannon from Elbrus Elevation in Nalchik. He truly has the inside scoop on the nooks and crannies of this majestic Caucasus republic.
Quiz: What do the North Caucasus, Germany, and South Dakota have in common? Yep: MEAT. Today we hear from our wonderful guest Marnette about how a fascinating turn of history led Germans settlers in Russia out to the territory that became South Dakota. And with them they brought the wonderful tradition of shashlik—but with a … Continue reading "CT46 – The Chislic Circle: The Story of How German Settlers Brought Shashlik to South Dakota with Special Guest Marnette from Heritage Hall Museum"
With their republic all but in our back yard, the Karachai are among our near neighbors and good friends. It’s high time we hear from them! Today we welcome three Karachai into the studio to share many surprising insights into their culture. Did you know many Karachai don’t call their children “my son” or “my … Continue reading "CT45 – Karachai “In Their Own Words!” | Public Displays of Affection | Lezginka in Brooklyn"
The people of Chechnya are probably some of the least well-understood in the Caucasus to outsiders. In the spirit of our ongoing series “In Their Own Words,” today we give the mic to our Chechen friend and tour guide to share about his place and people from his own perspective. Aside from being an experienced … Continue reading "CT44 – Chechnya “In Their Own Words!” | Abdullah the Tour Guide & Couchsurfing Expert"
We are continually amazed at what a global community exists with strong ties to the North Caucasus. The cultures here reach out like branches across continents, as today’s guest demonstrates. Daria Kulesh—Moscow-born Russian, descended from Ingushetia, now living in the UK—makes her living singing songs about her Caucasus roots. Inspired by her beloved Ingush grandmother … Continue reading "CT43 – Award-Winning UK Singer Daria Kulesh Tells Stories of Ingushetia"
Some things only improve with age. We feel that way about a few of our early releases. Today we are re-releasing one of our most popular episodes ever, no. 7, “Meat and Tea,” all the way from summer 2017. We hope it will provide some inspiration for your outdoor activities this spring and summer. Enjoy!
Local business director Zaur joins us today from the Elbrus region for an insider’s look at the economy of the North Caucasus region. While many sectors of the local economy do struggle, the situation is far from bleak as considered by some. Local entrepreneurs are routinely making bold moves, not just to make ends meet, … Continue reading "CT41 – Jobs & Economy in the North Caucasus: Agriculture, Tourism, Carpets, Caviar, and more"
Skiing . . . in Russia? That’s right. While many in the English-speaking world look to Europe’s Alps or the Rockies in the US, just under our noses here in the North Caucasus lies a little-known cluster of ski resorts. From the most chic and developed at Sochi down to the backcountry Cheget, the North … Continue reading "CT40 – Skiing in the North Caucasus: Sochi, Elbrus, Dombay, and Arkhyz"
The year 2018 finishes out with a bang as we hear from Armenians in their own words. And have they got words to share! Our guests give us an insider look at what it means to be Russian-born Armenians in the North Caucasus today. You will hear a remarkable compassion and open-mindedness as we cover … Continue reading "CT39 – Armenians “In Their Own Words”! | Akmat Grozny |"
In a region already teeming with diversity, North Ossetia pushes the boundary yet further. Unlike its neighboring republics in so many ways, we are delighted today to share an interview with some North Ossetians friends and for them to share about their people in their own words.But that’s not all. It turns out that the … Continue reading "CT38A – Ossetians “In Their Own Words!” | Interview: Asheville Sister City with Vladikavkaz"
In a region already teeming with diversity, North Ossetia pushes the boundary yet further. Unlike its neighboring republics in so many ways, we are delighted today to share an interview with some North Ossetians friends and for them to share about their people in their own words.But that’s not all. It turns out that the … Continue reading "CT38B – Ossetians “In Their Own Words”"
Leicester, England is not known for its mountains. In fact, it has none. Hailing from those very flatlands, Richard Hartfield treks mountains the world over. This summer, his explorations brought him all the way to our neck of the woods. His goal was to trek (that’s like walking, but with a backpack, and for weeks … Continue reading "CT37 – Interview with British Trekker Rich Hartfield"
The dust has begun to settle. The shouting receded to a murmur. It’s time for us to weigh in on the now historic UFC 229 fight between Khabib and McGregor on October 6th, 2018. Enlivening this discussion we feature Field Notes from the night of the fight. More importantly, we are joined by local Dagestani … Continue reading "CT36 – Khabib v. McGregor UFC 229: Local Dagestani Discusses the Fight! Featuring Ravil"
The feast continues in Episode 35 as we get into the specifics of what food people here actually eat. We take you on a mouth-watering tour through the food groups revealing a surprisingly colorful variety of cuisine. We are helped again by Cristi who brings a gravy-boatload of experience to the conversation. For many here … Continue reading "CT35 – Food in the North Caucasus PART 2 | What they eat here | Special Guest: Cristi!"
What’s one thing that ties together culture, history, and tourism here in the North Caucasus? And ties together everything else? Everywhere? That’s right: FOOD. It’s no secret that food brings people together. And here like everywhere, people love their food. Today we take a look at how food functions in society in general, and specifically … Continue reading "CT34 – Food in the North Caucasus PART 1 | Special Guest: Cristi!"
Having heard from the fellas, we now have a chance to hear a women’s perspective on Ingushetia. Some of our most articulate guests yet, these bright young women give us a new level of appreciation for Ingush culture and heritage. They hail from Magas, the “youngest city on earth” and bear the telltale pride of … Continue reading "CT33B – Ingushetia: “In Their Own Words!” PART B | Magas | The Teip System | The Wildest Mother-In-Law Custom On Earth | Ezdel | “Always Lezginka”"
FIXED: This episode was originally released majorly garbled (starting at minute 20, and following). The errors have been fixed now! Try again. Our apologies! We called in a double-episode for this one. Our awesome Ingush friends came out in droves to share about their unique and amazing land with us. In Part A you will … Continue reading "CT33A – Ingushetia: “In Their Own Words!” | PART A (*fixed) | The Ingush Thwertnick | Hard Facts about the Stone Towers | An Anthem!"
Our series “In Their Own Words” returns this week with a rich look at the peoples of Dagestan. With only one interviewee this time, this is admittedly a disservice to the fast array of ethnicities in Dagestan. But it’s a start and a great one at that. Our guest today shares candidly about growing up … Continue reading "CT32 – Dagestan: “In Their Own Words!” | Tightrope Walking | Nurmagomedov UFC | Life in Makhachkala | Lions & Eagles"
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is our great pleasure to introduce to you our No.1 fan, the model CaucasTalk listener, our very first emailer, Kevin Abernathy! Hailing form the deep south, Kevin and his pal Justin are on their way to summiting the Seven Summits of the World. Elbrus was their number 2, and they made … Continue reading "CT31 – INTERVIEW: Kevin & Justin on Summiting Elbrus, Russian Banya, Touring with BeyondRedSquare"
Last week we took a look at the place in the North Caucasus of one of the world’s most famous and beloved sports—football (soccer, if you’re an American). Today we look at the place in the world of the most famous and beloved sports in the North Caucasus: combat sports. The Caucasus region by far … Continue reading "CT30 – Sports in the North Caucasus PART 2: Wrestling, Boxing, & Martial Arts"
The World Cup has just ended in Russia, but passion for football (or soccer, if you will) burns bright as ever—and that is no less true for the North Caucasus than the rest of the country. Today in the first of a two-part deep dive into sports in the North Caucasus, Andrew unveils amazing Caucasus … Continue reading "CT29 – Sports in the North Caucasus PART 1: Soccer, Football, & the World Cup"
Today is August 5th meaning there are 10 days left to inquire about the upcoming CaucasTalk Adventure. What’s that, you ask?? The trip of a lifetime specially-designed for our beloved CaucasTalk community. Join us February 2-9, 2019 for an 8-day, 7-night journey into the heart of the North Caucasus! Inquiries, information, and registration at: www.beyondredsquare.com/podcast
[UPDATED INTRO! WAS LOST, NOW FOUND! 8.28.18] To commemorate our (approximate) 1-year mark of producing CaucasTalk, today we take a little walk down memory lane. Here for you now we present hand-picked clips of some of the best moments from our first nine episodes! Let the good times roll… Updated: 10:46 EDT
Today’s double episode is truly a tour de force. In this our second installment of “In Their Own Words,” our good friends Tembulat & Zalina take us on a deep dive into the very heart of Circassian culture. Not only musicians, this couple also hand makes instruments and knives. They provided so much rich content … Continue reading "CT27B – Kabardians: In Their Own Words! PART B"
Today’s double episode is truly a tour de force. In this our second installment of “In Their Own Words,” our good friends Tembulat & Zalina take us on a deep dive into the very heart of Circassian culture. Not only musicians, this couple also hand makes instruments and knives. They provided so much rich content … Continue reading "CT27A – Kabardians: In Their Own Words! PART A"
We sometimes speak of “the Caucasus” as if it’s one thing. But as you know, it’s dozens and dozens—ethnicities, languages, cultures, and expressions. So after months of preparation, we are eager and excited today to unveil our newest series, “In Their Own Words,” in which we interview representatives from each of the largest people groups … Continue reading "CT26 – New Series! “In Their Own Words”—Russians!"
What are YOU doing in February, 2019? Why not join us in the first-ever CaucasTalk Adventure—an 8-day/7-night tour designed especially for you, our esteemed community! Everything you’ve heard about so far—the steaming tea, the smoky shashlik, the sizzling banya, the extreme sports, and let’s not forget the witty banter—we’ll do it all! Take a listen … Continue reading "SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: The CaucasTalk Adventure—February, 2019!!"
For the first half of 2018 our own host Eli was in Lezginka lessons with his son. For today’s episode, Andrew interviews Eli about what it’s been like to learn this rich Caucasus dance tradition. Get an insider’s perspective on what it’s like to be an outsider learning to enter in! Plus, we’ve got a … Continue reading "CT25 – Lezginka Part 2: Learning to Dance"
Our apologies for the delay! We skipped our June 1 release and took a little summer rest. But we’re back at it again. For any of you who missed it—or if you didn’t miss it and just want to hear it again—we have edited down our recent live broadcast for your listening pleasure. The night … Continue reading "CT – LIVE Episode!"
Have you ever felt that. . . you can’t stop the feeling? Well Justin Timberlake has. And he is not alone! Lezginka—the passionate, flashy, incendiary national dance of the North Caucasus—embodies this sentiment. From grandmas down to little kids, Adyghe to Dargin, Lezginka gets blood pumping, feet jumping, and hearts thumping across this land. Thus … Continue reading "CT24 – Lezginka! Part 1: What is it?"
Listen to our first LIVE broadcast! Also, CHAT LIVE with Andrew & Eli during the broadcast! Go to caucastalk.com/live Wednesday 16 May, 2018 at 7:30pm (GMT+3) Pacific – 9:30am Eastern – 12:30pm
BIG NEWS! Join us next week Wednesday May 16th, 2018 at 7:30pm Moscow Time (GMT +3) for the first-ever live audience recording of CaucasTalk AND a live online broadcast of the show! We couldn’t be more excited. Andrew and Eli have been booked as the evening entertainment at one of Pyatigork’s most popular local venues, … Continue reading "URGENT NEWS!! Live Broadcast NEXT WEEK! — May 16, 2018"
Would you like insider advice on traveling the North Caucasus from an insider with 20 years of experience guiding throughout the region? Today we welcome Rashid to the studio! We heard of Rashid from British explorer Levison Wood’s’ recent BBC documentary “From Russia to Iran.” He personally guided Wood and his crew for three weeks … Continue reading "CT23 – INTERVIEW: Rashid – Levison Wood’s Guide to the North Caucasus, and YOURS!"
Jeff, the founder of Experience It Tours, closes out “Tourism Month” with a bang. A veteran of many years running private tours in Morocco and beyond, Jeff casts a fresh light on the value of tourism around the world and how to do it well. We think you’ll agree when you hear him that his … Continue reading "CT22 – Tourism Month! INTERVIEW: Jeff says “Choose to travel!”"
It’s finally here—Beyond Red Square, your very own English-speaking tourism company geared entirely for adventures in the North Caucasus! Our very own Andrew and his colleague Josh, the company’s founders and directors, walk us through its unique features. This is no mere ad; rather it’s the fruit of many years of passion and hard work … Continue reading "CT21 – Introducing “Beyond Red Square”! – INTERVIEW: Andrew & Josh’s New Tourism Company"
The founts of wisdom (or at least suggestions) burst forth today as we give you travelers some down-to-earth advice about your upcoming visit to the North Caucasus. We invite you to take some notes as we share our favorite places to visit, things to do, and our own Caucasus wish lists. Plus we bring to … Continue reading "CT20 – How to Tour the North Caucasus THIS Summer! – The Inside Scoop"
There are some folks doing romantic jobs in the world, and today we talk with one of them. We are joined by the talented Instagram photographer, Josiah William Gordon. What is an “Instagram photographer?” We’re so glad you asked. Josiah is flown all over the world to promote and advertise beautiful locations with his photography. … Continue reading "BONUS EPISODE! Tourism Month! | INTERVIEW: Josiah the Instagram Photographer"
Tourism is getting a fresh new ‘doo as we kick off our very own Tourism Month! Summer is fast approaching so we decided to make certain our listeners are equipped with everything they need to launch out into the Caucasus on their own. Be sure to listen in over the next month as we share … Continue reading "CT19 – Tourism Month! | INTERVIEW: Maddie the Londoner | Field Notes: Living Water"
Brew a cuppa something hot and kick back on the couch for a relaxed conversation with Eli and Andrew today about the State of the Podcast! We announce some changes coming up which we think will definitely interest you! Thanks for listening.
As Andrew calls it, this episode is truly the “icing on the cake” to our mini-series on Elbrus. Born at the base of Elbrus, raised on its slopes, and now literally living of the mountain itself—folks, it doesn’t get more local than this! Today’s guest is Takhir, a professional year-round guide on Mount Elbrus. But … Continue reading "CT17 – Mount Elbrus! INTERVIEW: Takhir the Trailblazer"
The first big news is that we’re upping the ante here at CaucasTalk. As threatened back in January, we’re moving to three releases per month. That’s right—3 (three) (III) (trés) (три). This will allow us to get you more of the juicy content we’re creating and that you’re craving. Look for releases on the 1st, … Continue reading "CT16 – Mount Elbrus! INTERVIEW: Milo the Mountaineer"
All right, enough with the facts and geology—Andrew takes us on a colorful tour of the zanier side of Europe’s highest peak, Mount Elbrus. Today we learn about the world’s worst outhouse, and attempt to drive to the summit, extreme sports on the mountain, chances to “glamp” at altitude, and even a poem by Pushkin. We … Continue reading "CT15B – Mount Elbrus! (part 2)"
Top of the morning and happy New Year to you! We’re kicking off the new year with a strong new mini-series: Mount Elbrus! For being the highest mountain in Europe, Elbrus is little known to the wider world. Today’s discussion long enough, that we decided to split it up and let you enjoy it over … Continue reading "CT15A – Mount Elbrus! (part 1)"
Welcome to the end of our mini-series on “The Arts in the Caucasus.” Have you ever wanted to dip a toe into Russian literature, but didn’t know where to start? Or maybe like some of us you’ve given it a go only to get stymied only a few chapters in. Renew your interest with Russian … Continue reading "CT14 – The North Caucasus in Russian Literature"
This episode is the proverbial tip of the iceberg. It’s a lump on the tip of the iceberg. It’s snow dusting the lump the tip of the iceberg. You get our point: the topic of “Music in the Caucasus” is deep and wide and, much like the iceberg, much of it remains obscured to us … Continue reading "CT13 – Music in the Caucasus"
“Censorship in the West is like everywhere else, it forces my colleagues to follow certain rules—the first rule being the box office.” —Otar Iosseliani The first in a mini-series on “Arts in the North Caucasus,” today we talk about film. “Talk about film?” It’s true, This is one episode especially for the show notes. Film … Continue reading "CT12 – Film in the Caucasus"
On a stroke of insight, we thought it wise to ask a real live woman to help us out in an episode devoted to discussing women in the Caucasus. We are delighted to host Cristi, Andrew’s wife, on today’s episode. Our question today is, “Who is the Caucasus woman?” The answers are myriad and we … Continue reading "CT11 – The Caucasus Woman – Featuring Cristi!"
Down through history and across the entire North Caucasus region, certain characteristics have emerged that idealize what is a “Caucasus Man.” Today we discuss what are these characteristics as described by the cultures around us. We also pull out from the files three colorful exemplars from history celebrated for their manliness. Ever heard of “the … Continue reading "CT10 – The Caucasus Man"
Welcome to our first non-episode—a brief installment to check in, say hey, and share some details of what’s been happening and what’s to come. We want to share with you some of the feedback we’ve gotten over the last few months and reflect on what we’ve learned. We have an award-winner to announce. And we … Continue reading "Non-Episode #1 — Previews, Awards, & Some Stats"
The nick-name for today’s episode is “Story Time with Uncle Andrew.” Not only is Andrew actually a good story-teller, but he has good stories to tell. The past few months have furnished us with a wealth of experience in Caucasus friends’ homes and visiting the various republics of the Caucasus. Today Andrew draws out key … Continue reading "CT9 – “Assuming Friendship” – 3 Weeks, 5 Homes"
Stereotypes . . . we all have them. Biases braid their way into how we interpret our daily experience. They inform our perception of reality, other cultures, and—most significantly—other people. And sometimes, they warp our perception of these things. Living in the North Caucasus we have experienced stereotypes in many directions, others’ about us as … Continue reading "CT8 – Humanizing Stereotypes"
What’s in a barbecue? Have you ever thought about the cultural significance of this seemingly insignificant even? Well, here in the North Caucasus, two foods in particular hold incredible cultural value: barbecue—here called “shashlik,”—and tea—or “chai.” In Episode 7, we walk you through explanation, analysis, and of course stories about these two popular pastimes. We … Continue reading "CT7 – Meat & Tea: The Food of the Caucasus"
Buckle up for today’s info-packed, highly entertaining episode about tourism in the North Caucasus. Today we interview our first ever American guest on the show: Shannon Scarbrough. Shannon is the founder of Elbrus Elevation, a top-notch English-speaking tour operation geared specifically toward Western/American clients, run out of the heart of the North Caucasus. We had … Continue reading "CT6 – Interview with Shannon Scarborough of Elbrus Elevation Mountain Tour Company | Quiz!"
What do Romans, pointy hats, mixed martial arts, and “articulate gobbledy-gook” have in common? Caucasus history! Now before you roll your eyes and skip this episode, assuming that history is boring and irrelevant, just have a listen. We’re talking Caucasus history here. Have we ever let you down before? Today we ask the question everyone … Continue reading "CT5 – A Brief Look at the History of the North Caucasus | News Minute!!"
BONUS EPISODE! So eager are we to get this podcast up and running that we are jumpstarting things this month with BONUS EPISODES! Instead of one episode every two weeks, we’re posting every week for the month of August (as long as we don’t exceed our monthly hosting limit with blubrry.com… but don’t worry your … Continue reading "CT4 – Culture: What Is It? And Our First Interview! BONUS EPISODE!"
Tourism in the North Caucasus, Part 2 We’re jumping right back into our fly-by of the NC region where we left off last time. Having grazed the surface of Dagestan, Chechnya, and Ingushetia, we today continue westward into Ossetia, Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachay-Cherkessia, and Adygheya—with a brief stop off in our fair region, the lovely, the bubbly … Continue reading "CT3 – Tourism in the North Caucasus, Part 2"
Tourism in the North Caucasus, Part 1 “What? Me, tour the North Caucasus?” That’s right. Today we begin a two-part series to introduce you to the marvelous republics of the North Caucasus. They are: Dagestan, Chechnya, Ingushetia, Ossetia, Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachay-Cherkessia, and Adygheya. In this episdode we cover the first three. Episode 2 Links The Range: … Continue reading "CT2 – Tourism in the North Caucasus, Part 1"
What is CaucasTalk? Welcome to CaucasTalk—your source for culture, history, and tourism in the North Caucasus mountains of Russia! We are Andrew and Eli, two Americans who live here and want to share the wonders and joys of the North Caucasus with the English-speaking world, and beyond. Today we bring you up to speed on … Continue reading "CT1 – Welcome to CaucasTalk!"