The Orientalist Express Podcast: Recent Episodes
The Orientalist Express Team
A podcast series by The Orientalist Express that seeks to make foreign affairs interesting and understandable to everyday people.
We we begin a new administration in Washington, it’s clear that the old way of doing things in American foreign policy needs to be critically evaluated and reconsidered. Core assumptions about why America is involved around the world and why it matters can no longer be taken for granted. The American people have spoken, and it’s time those of us committed to the “traditional” view of American foreign policy need to adapt. So that’s why we’ve decided to shift gears on this podcast with a new series that seeks to challenge long-held beliefs and worldviews about the international order and the “Washington Consensus.” “Why Are We Here” will take a critical look at America’s engagement in places all over the world and try to understand where it makes sense for America to engage, and where it makes sense to pull back our involvement.
In “Why Are We Here, Episode I: The Phantom Presence,” we take a very broad look at the U.S.-led international order that has been in place for over 75 years. The “Liberal International Order” as it’s known, is the set of global organizations like the U.N. and rules like “freedom of trade on the ocean” that America has, for the most part, tried to uphold (as opposed to just letting the strongest country do whatever it wants, they have to follow the rules we all agree to). Was this system really to our benefit? Was it all just an illusion of power?
On this episode, Nicholas is joined joined once again by Stephen and Matthew in our first episode since the 2024 election. In fact, this is our first regular recording in about two and a half years! On this episode, we’ll engage in wild speculation about what American foreign policy might look like for the incoming administration and why it matters to the average American.
Are you looking for a career with global travel opportunities and mission to help improve lives all around the world? On November 18, Global Minnesota will be hosting a free webinar on navigating international career opportunities in the U.S. Government. In this event, you’ll hear insights and advice from an expert panel featuring representatives from the U.S. State Department, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Commercial Service, and the U.S. Agency for International Development. They will share exciting new opportunities and hiring tracks, including what skills might benefit you and how to get started. This free webinar is open to everyone and you can register right now at this link:
Register Here
On this episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from one of the panelists for this event, Penelope Thomas. She serves as the Development Diplomat in Residence for USAID. Her overseas assignments include Bangladesh, Barbados, Colombia, The Dominican Republic, Egypt, Guyana, Jamaica, Mali, Nigeria, and Pakistan. She is also a graduate of St. Olaf College in French and Spanish. And if that wasn’t interesting enough, she is an accomplished singer and was a member of the renowned Gospel group called The Sounds of Blackness, and was once a backup singer for Prince when he recorded the soundtrack for the 1989 film Batman. She provides a sneak peak of the upcoming webinar and provides more insight into her fascinating life and work.
Hear untold stories of international connections with new monthly episodes by subscribing to The Global Minnesota Podcast. Now available on all podcast streaming apps!
LinksInternational Careers Webinar
Past Podcast Episode Featuring State Department Webinar Panelist
Presidential Management Fellows Program
Payne Fellowship Program
USAID Careers
USA Jobs Website
Prince - Batdance Music Video
Global Minnesota’s Great Decisions program features grassroots discussion groups where people from all over the state get together in their communities to talk about the big foreign policy issues of our time. Groups are made up of all different backgrounds including community organizations, church groups, universities, and even groups of friends who want to learn more about complex international issues.
On this episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from a Great Decisions expert speaker, Christi Siver, and a local Great Decisions group leader Renee Brown-Goodell. They have joined to talk about their roles in the Great Decisions program, the process for joining or starting a group, and how these groups foster international learning across the state.
LinksGreat Decisions Discussion Groups
As a major player in global affairs, Germany has a critical role in steering the transatlantic relationship. Earlier this summer, Global Minnesota partnered on an event with the Germanic-American Institute and the Bertelsmann Foundation to discuss the U.S.-German relationship. The event featured remarks from Irene Braam, Executive Director of the Bertelsmann Foundation, and Rainer Breul, who serves as the Head of Political Affairs at the German Embassy in Washington, D.C.
On the latest episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from Rainer Breul as he shares more about his background, the connections between Germany and Minnesota, and the essential importance of the U.S.-German relationship.
LinksGermany Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Department of State Office of Sub-National Diplomacy
Global Minnesota’s Classroom Connection program inspires our littlest learners with fun and interactive lessons about a country’s culture, language, and daily life. International volunteers from all over the world go to elementary and middle school classrooms to spark global curiosity about people from other countries. Global Minnesota recently expanded this program to Mankato, Minnesota, further increasing our reach across the state.
On this episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, we are joined by Angie Davis, a kindergarten teacher with Washington Elementary School in Mankato, Nowrin Koly, a Classroom Connection volunteer from Bangladesh, and Madeline Wildeson, Assistant Director for Retention at the Kearney International Center at MSU Mankato. They participated in our pilot program to expand Classroom Connection to Mankato and have joined to talk about their background and experiences with the program.
LinksClassroom Connection Program
This interview was recorded on June 17, 2024.
As part of Global Minnesota’s K-12 Education Programs, Academic WorldQuest engages the next generation of global leaders, preparing them to thrive in and actively shape their globally connected future. Students are challenged to think about the global and local implications of international events by answering a series of multiple choice questions on a variety of foreign affairs topics. They are inspired to continue applying this knowledge and passion as they go forward in the world. Global Minnesota held the statewide Academic WorldQuest competition this past March at the Mall of America, where the team from Mounds View High School won the championship.
On this episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from John, Alicia, Jaiesh, and Josiah, of the winning Mounds View team. They recently returned from the national competition in Washington, D.C. and talked about Academic WorldQuest, their trip to D.C., and how this competition helps prepare them to live in an increasingly global world.
LinksAcademic WorldQuest
2024 Competition Press Release
Global Minnesota offers a wide-range of programs in our mission to advance international understanding and engagement in Minnesota. Their efforts include major public events with international dignitaries, grassroots foreign policy discussion groups, K-12 education programs, international student outreach, and international Professional Exchanges. Overseeing all of these programs is Global Minnesota’s Program Director.
On this episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from Erin Hart as she discusses her first four months in this role. Her career spans several tours as a Foreign Service Officer, as well as leadership positions at several nonprofit organizations in Minnesota. She joined to talk about her experiences, program highlights, and what to expect from Global Minnesota throughout this year.
LinksErin Hart in Oman (Beginning at 1:17)
Kabul City Initiative
Global Minnesota Events
Professional Exchanges
Discussion Groups
K-12 Education Programs
The State Department has a growing number of career tracks and entry points for a variety of professionals. Diplomats in Residence are available to answer questions and share insight with those interested in joining the State Department.
On the latest episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from the Diplomat in Residence for the Midwest region, Susan Falatko. She joins to talk about her time in the foreign service, the Diplomat in Residence program, and how to get a job in the Foreign or Civil Service.
LinksState Department Careers
Talent Network Sign Up
On January 31, Global Minnesota hosted the popular annual event, the U.S. Foreign Policy Update. In this event, Diplomat in Residence and retired career Foreign Service Officer Tom Hanson discussed the latest foreign policy developments, trends, and challenges facing the U.S. this year. His insightful and wide-ranging discussion included topics like the repercussions from the ongoing war in Ukraine, concerns facing China’s economy, renewed conflicts in the Middle East, and ongoing global struggles for peace and security.
This episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast is a follow-up conversation with Tom Hanson featuring questions that were submitted during the event.
LinksEvent Recording: 2024 U.S. Foreign Policy Update
Global Minnesota Membership
In 2022, Global Minnesota was delighted to host Fellows from the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) in Minnesota as part of our Professional Exchanges Program. One such visitor was Luis Villaherrera, who is fighting for democracy and human rights in El Salvador.
He joined The Global Minnesota Podcast to talk about his Minnesota experience with the YLAI program, his recent Obama Scholars award, and the important work he is doing to advance government accountability in Central America.
LinksYLAI Program
Obama Scholars Program
Global Minnesota Professional Exchanges
Upcoming Event: Global Social with YLAI Fellows
TRACODA
The Daily: El Salvador
The Little Prince
Global Minnesota Gala
On this episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from Katherine A. Brown, President & CEO of Global Ties U.S. She joins to talk about the national Global Ties Network, their upcoming National Meeting and Advocacy Day in early March, Citizen Diplomacy Day on February 16, and how these professional exchange programs benefit communities throughout the United States and around the world.
LinksGlobal Minnesota Professional Exchanges
Global Ties U.S.
Global Ties Network
Global Ties Community Impact Study
Podcast Episode with Leorian Ricardo
State Department Alumni Exchange Program
Upcoming Event: Global Social with International Visitors
In the Classroom Connection program, international visitors teach sessions on their country’s culture and language in a fun and interactive format that sparks the curiosity of our youngest learners. Marzia Saleem is one of this year’s Humphrey Fellows from Pakistan and recently volunteered at Anne Sullivan Elementary School in the first grade classes of Whitney Newbauer and Amanda Davey.
On the latest episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from Marzia, Whitney, and Amanda as they share their experience bringing the world to Minnesota classrooms!
LinksClassroom Connection Program
Humphrey Fellow Marzia Saleem
On this episode, Nicholas is joined by Sasha Nicolle, founder of the nonprofit Emanate International and currently the Advancement Officer for the local nonprofit Lift Up the Vulnerable (LUV). They are an international NGO working primarily in Sudan and South Sudan to prevent the trafficking and oppression of vulnerable children and women. Sasha also appeared on a previous podcast episode a couple years ago which focused on Emanate International and the critical need for us to change the way we think about international development. She has joined today to talk more about LUV, the status of international development in Sudan and South Sudan, and why international development is important for us here at home.
LINKS
Lift Up the Vulnerable
LUV Event
The Case for Foreign Aid
Emanate International Podcast Episode
Power of Community to Affect Change
Earlier this year, Global Minnesota had the honor of welcoming the former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, Algeria, and Bahrain, Ronald Neumann, for an in-depth public conversation about the critical need to modernize the State Department. He provided a comprehensive summary of ways in which we can better support our diplomats abroad, and the implications of this important work here at home. You can catch that recording here.
On this episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear Ambassador Neumann continue the conversation about his diplomatic career, careers in the foreign service, and a behind-the-scenes look at life as an Ambassador.
LinksEvent Recording: Modernizing America’s Diplomacy
Ambassador Neumann Bio
American Academy of Diplomacy
America’s Other Army (Book)
American Diplomat (Podcast)
The General and the Ambassador (Podcast)
Earlier this year, Global Minnesota had the honor of welcoming the former U.S. Ambassador to Cyprus, Kathleen Doherty, for an in-depth public conversation about the unique situation of this divided Mediterranean island. She provided an excellent summary of the static conflict in this region and what it means for all of us here at home, as well as the wider world abroad. You can catch that recording here.
On this episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear Ambassador Doherty continue the conversation about her diplomatic career, careers in the foreign service, and a behind-the-scenes look at life as an Ambassador.
LinksEvent Recording: Cyprus in Context
Ambassador Doherty Bio
On this episode, hear from one of last year’s YLAI Fellows who recently returned to Minnesota to showcase his new projects as part of the State Department’s Citizen Diplomacy Action Fund. Leorian Ricardo is Creative Director at Moro Studio, an arts and publishing studio that is leading the development of the comic book industry and providing professional opportunities for young talent and new, underrepresented voices in the Dominican Republic. He shared his comic book workshops called “Be the Superhero of Your Own Story” at local schools including Gideon Pond Elementary, Nova Classical Academy, and Risen Christ Catholic School and spoke with next generation creators at the Minneapolis College of Art & Design.
LinksGlobal Minnesota Professional Exchanges
YLAI Program
CDAF Fellowship
Moro Studio Website
On the latest episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from the keynote speaker for the upcoming Global Business Outlook John Pournoor. He is the CEO of Government Analytica and has 35 years of experience working at the intersection of governments and industry.
He will be presenting the top global business megatrends that will be critical to corporate success in 2024. Catch this episode to get a preview of his discussion and learn more about the can't-miss business event of the year.
LinksEvent Page: Global Business Outlook
Government Analytica
Global Minnesota Corporate Membership
In October, some of Global Minnesota’s staff will participate in the International Strategic Crisis Negotiation Exercise, a diplomacy simulation to help college students learn the negotiation process. To support this effort, Global Minnesota will host TWO free public events featuring former U.S. Ambassadors. The first features former Ambassador to Cyprus, Kathleen Doherty, on October 19, while the second features former Ambassador and Deputy Assistance Secretary of State Ron Neumann on October 30.
On our latest podcast episode, hear from the local organizer for the diplomacy simulation, retired U.S. Navy Commander Jon Olson and Diplomat-in-Residence for the University of Minnesota – Duluth Tom Hanson. They share an exclusive preview of these two upcoming diplomacy events, the current situation in Cyprus, and how Global Minnesota and the diplomacy simulation help to inform and engage the next generation of foreign policy professionals.
On this episode we’re taking a deep dive into local politics. In particular, we’re going to address some very particular issues currently impacting Salt Lake City, Utah. We have the honor of being joined once again by Grant Miller. Grant is a public defender in Salt Lake City and has recently announced his candidacy for the Utah State House of Representatives for House District 24. Grant joined to discuss his campaign platform and talk through some of the issues most critical to Utah and his proposed solutions.
LINKS
Grant Miller Campaign Website
This past month, an incredible group of emerging professionals from countries all across Africa have been visiting Minnesota as part of the Mandela Washington Fellowship program. On the latest episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from two of these impressive Fellows, Marcellin Tsihoboto and Slyvia Phaphali Adzitey about their professional careers, their time in Minnesota, and the insights they learned which will be brought back to their home countries.
On the latest episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from Elizabeth Horst and Kin Moy, two Senior Foreign Service Officers at the U.S. Department of State who are both originally from Minnesota. They discussed Minnesota’s recent bid to host a World Expo, the role that organizations like Global Minnesota play in citizen diplomacy, and how American foreign policy affects us all right here in America’s heartland.
Special thanks to former Global Minnesota President Mark Ritchie and the entire Minnesota Expo 2027 Committee for their inspiring advocacy to bring the world to Minnesota. Though the 2027 Expo was awarded to Serbia, their incredible efforts have helped raise Minnesota’s global profile.
Subscribe to The Global Minnesota Podcast to hear untold stories of international connections each month!
LinksU.S. State Department Bureaus
Minnesota Global Stats
Susan Falatko (Diplomat in Residence)
State Department Careers
Global Minnesota Professional Exchanges
Expo 2027
Protez Foundation (MPR Interview)
Global Minnesota recently launched a new virtual youth diplomacy program to connect Ukrainian and American high school students. In this program, students from Kyiv and Lviv, Ukraine are connecting with Edina High School students through online meetings and via social media platforms.
On the latest episode of The Global Minnesota Podcast, hear from Edina High School teacher Lindsey Smaka and Andrii Ushytskyi from America House, Kyiv on how these young people have deepened their knowledge, empathy and understanding of one another during this difficult time in Ukraine.
LinksPublic Event with Ambassador of Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch
Global Minnesota K-12 Education Program
Yulia Tymoshenko
In a new series of audio conversations, Global Minnesota Marketing & Communications Manager Nick Hayen talks with some of the amazing people Global Minnesota connects with in our mission to advance international understanding and engagement. Subscribe to The Global Minnesota Podcast to catch these monthly episodes!
This episode features Marika Ollaranta and Helena Saren from Business Finland, which is dedicated to promoting Finland’s international business ties. They will be part of a delegation of Finnish businesses and the Ambassador of Finland visiting Minnesota in May focused on helping Minnesota businesses learn decarbonization best practices.
Interested in meeting this delegation in May? Contact Corporate Relations Officer Steve Riedel to find opportunities for global access and exposure to meet your company’s Sustainable Development Goals.
In a new series of audio conversations, Global Minnesota Marketing & Communications Manager Nick Hayen talks with some of the amazing people Global Minnesota connects with in our mission to advance international understanding and engagement. Subscribe to The Global Minnesota Podcast to catch these monthly episodes!
This episode features two World Press Institute International Fellows, Ms. Fauziyya Tukur, a senior journalist focusing on disinformation for the British Broadcasting Corporation from Abuja, Nigeria, and Mr. Saqib Tanveer, social media editor for the Independent Urdu newspaper based in Islamabad, Pakistan. The World Press Institute was established in 1961 to strengthen and promote the founding principles and best practices of journalism. Each year, WPI brings together 10 professional journalists from all over the world and immerses them in the governance, politics, business, media, journalistic ethics, and culture of the United States. While they journey across the United States, they learn about the roles and responsibilities of the U.S. media, while engaging in the life and times surrounding them. Global Minnesota and WPI will showcase all ten of these individuals at a free Global Journalism Spotlight event at 6:00PM on March 23 at the Minneapolis Central Library.
On this episode, Nicholas is joined by guest star John Patterson. John who works at the U.S. Agency for International Development and is a founding board member and adjunct professor for the University of San Diego's new Master's of Science in Humanitarian Action program. They discuss John’s work with USAID, the link between humanitarian assistance and foreign policy, and Minnesota’s vast connections to international development and refugee assistance programs.
LINKS
University of San Diego Master’s of Science in Humanitarian Action
USAID
Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance
Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism
Food for Peace Program
Nagorno-Karabakh War
MINN 2020 Global Report
Alight (formerly American Refugee Committee)
USGLC in Minnesota
Stephen and Nicholas take a deep dive into the latest NATO summit in Madrid. They discuss the importance of NATO’s invitation to bring Finland & Sweden into the alliance, the dramatic increase of NATO forces in Eastern Europe, and NATO’s new Strategic Concept which places a heavy emphasis on countering China’s aggression. They also explain the overall importance of the thawing Arctic region and American leadership during this critical time in international relations.
LINKSBlog Post: The Return of the NATO Alliance
Blog Post: The Next Phase of the War in Ukraine
Russian Invasion of Georgia
NATO Baltic Map
NATO 2022 Strategic Concept
Quad Alliance
Blog Post: Global Policy & Climate Change (Arctic Ocean Shipping Lanes)
Blog Post: South China Sea (UN Convention on the Law of the Sea)
Global Minnesota
Minnesota International NGO Network
On this special edition of The Orientalist Express podcast, we discuss the devastating invasion of Ukraine by Russia’s military forces. Nicholas and Matthew are joined by returning guest host Toms Ratfelders, who previously worked in the Latvian government, and Steve Hatting, who recently returned from living in Ukraine for the past seven years. The team shares their thoughts on this monumental shift in European security and what it could mean for the future of international relations. Steve also shares his personal experiences in Ukraine and his optimism for the continued survival of Ukraine as an independent nation.
LINKSAlight (local org) Rapid Response Team in Poland
Ukraine Refugee Assistance
Support for Kyiv Jewish Community
Euromaidan Press Links for Support
Ukrainian Army Support (with Crypto donation)
Ukrainian Army Support
Ukraine President Zelenskyy Plays Piano
On this episode, Nicholas is joined by guest star Brianne Wolf. Brianne is a US Global Leadership Coalition Next Gen Leader and was recently appointed to the USGLC Nebraska Advisory Committee. Brianne works as the Director of Global Learning for the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She recently graduated from the University of Nebraska with a Master’s in Natural Resource Sciences as well. They discuss her small-town upbringing and her work connecting UNL students with the world. They also go through the ways in which America’s global engagement benefits the people of Nebraska.
LINKSUSGLC In Nebraska
Agribusiness
Land O Lakes Venture 37
Blog Post: UN Sustainable Development Goals
US SDG Academy
Book: The Beauty of what Remains
Book: I Contain Multitudes
University of Nebraska UN SDG Panel
University of Nebraska Global Learning Hub
On this episode, Nicholas is joined by retired Navy Admiral Michael Franken. Admiral Franken served for years in the U.S. Navy and has held numerous senior posts including the Deputy Director of Military Operations for U.S. Africa Command. More recently, he is currently running for one of Iowa’s U.S. Senate seats in 2022. We discuss his time in AFRICOM and the role of American engagement with Africa and the world. Then, we go through the ways in which American foreign policy benefits the people of Iowa and Admiral Franken’s plans if he is elected to the U.S. Senate.
LinksMichael Franken Bio
Frankenforiowa.com
AFRICOM
Blog Post: How U.S. Development & Diplomacy Helps Africa & America
Blog Post: The Future Is Africa
Blog Post: How Global Leadership Helps Us All
PEPFAR
Power Africa
Tricare
On this episode, Nicholas talks with Sasha Nicolle who is the founder and CEO of a new nonprofit known as Emanate International. Emanate International is a brand-new organization that is focused on providing resources to help nonprofit, NGO, and social enterprise leaders to think critically about how they do their international work. In particular, Emanate hosts a variety of videos and content centered on ensuring equitable development without disrupting local economies or displacing aid recipients. Sasha discusses how she views international development today and the steps that Emanate is undertaking to change this landscape to do global good better.
LinksEmanate International
MINN Summit
Circular Flow
Emanate Patreon
This episode features another special guest from the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition. USGLC’s Midwest Outreach Director Nezar Jamal joins Nicholas to continue the discussion on the importance of American global engagement and how it benefits the average American. In particular, they highlight the ways in which Minnesota enjoys significant public sector and non-profit growth through investments in America’s international affairs budget. American diplomacy and international development ensure our economic prosperity, national security, and improved public health.
LinksUSGLC in MN
Minnesota International NGO Network (MINN)
Global Minnesota
USGLC Event with Rep Tom Emmer
Star Tribune Op Ed
Sanneh Foundation
Land O Lakes Venture 37
How U.S. Development Benefits Africa
Marshall Plan
USGLC Heartland Summit
On this episode, we are joined by special guest star Nazila Jamshidi. Nazila is a gender equality and human rights specialist involved in Afghanistan’s development and democracy processes during the past decade. Nazila worked with various international organizations, like the U.N., USAID, and IFRC, to integrate gender perspectives and human rights approaches in creating and implementing development and humanitarian programs and policies. Nazila moved to the United States from Afghanistan in 2016, where she pursued her undergraduate education at Georgetown University, and she currently an M.A. candidate at Columbia University. Nazila is also a member of the U.S. Global Leadership’s 2021 Next-Gen Global Leaders Network. She joins host Nicholas Hayen in discussing the role of American engagement in Afghanistan and what this should look like as the last remaining US troops depart the country.
LinksArticle About Nazila Jamshidi
IFRC (Red Cross)
Feminist Majority Foundation
USGLC Next Gen Global Leaders Program
On a special episode of The Orientalist Express podcast, Nick interviews Alex Grant from the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition. Alex is director of the USGLC’s Heartland Initiative which seeks to highlight thebenefits of U.S. foreign policy and the federal international affairs budget while showing how those programs benefit the average American. We discuss the importance of U.S. foreign affairs spending, where that money goes, and how it ultimately serves as an investment that provides benefits to Americans here at home. Then, Nick and Alex discuss the broader importance of U.S. global leadership and why it is important for the United States to continue to stay engaged with the rest of the world.
LinksUSGLC Website
MINN Website
Foreign Affairs Budget
PEPFAR
Feed the Future
Power Africa
US Trade & Development Agency
Foreign Assistance Tracking Website
USGLC COVID Needs Assessment
USGLC Next Gen Global Leaders Program
Devex: USGLC FY22 Needs Assessment
2021 USGLC Report on Reports
USGLC COVID-19 Hub
USGLC Fact Sheet on Central America
Minnesota Resources
In our first episode after the contentious 2020 US Presidential election, Nicholas & Stephen take a close look into what to expect out of a foreign policy by the new incoming president Joe Biden. Though President Trump has been defeated and will leave office in January, the isolationist feelings that helped power his candidacy remain within American domestic politics. Will a Biden foreign policy be a return to the Obama years, or a departure to something new? Then, the team discusses how this new foreign policy could impact the average American.
LinksThe Iran Nuclear Deal (Article)
What A Biden Foreign Policy Could Mean For You (Article)
The Blob
As the protests over the death of George Floyd have morphed into a larger conversation about policing in America, the Trump administration has responded by sending federal officers into cities throughout the country. One of the most disturbing parts of this has been unknown officers abducting people off the street and throwing them into unmarked vans. On this episode, Stephen and Nick have brought back guest contributor Grant Miller who is a defense attorney practicing in Utah. We talk about the legality of these actions and the overall trend of degradation of our freedoms in the Bill of Rights.
LinksACLU Lawsuit: https://aclu-or.org/sites/default/files/field_documents/index_newspapers_-_tro_against_feds.pdf
Three Felonies A Day: https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704471504574438900830760842
The Bill of Rights: https://billofrightsinstitute.org/founding-documents/bill-of-rights/
Giglio/Brady Information: https://www.lexipol.com/resources/blog/brady-giglio-and-you-how-the-duty-to-disclose-exculpatory-information-impacts-police-disciplinary-files/
The Tyranny of Good Intentions (Book): https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/155833/the-tyranny-of-good-intentions-by-paul-craig-roberts-and-lawrence-m-stratton/
BONUS DISCUSSION:
On this episode, Nicholas, Stephen, and Matthew talk about the major changes facing the world during the global Coronavirus pandemic crisis. Specifically, they look at the ways in which this will radically change the modern economy and workforce. Then, the question of China looms large these days. Is China winning the soft-power battle by projecting confidence and competency in the face of the pandemic while the rest of the world suffers? Finally, the team debates one of Stephen’s long-held theories about the true victims of the Battle for Middle-Earth.
LinksGlobalization
Qassem Soleimani
Disappearances in China
Hong Kong Protests Continue
What You Need To Know About The Coronavirus
The Global Response To COVID-19
Bonus TrackDuring our economic discussion, the team had a detailed debate about the merits of Universal Basic Income (UBI). Here is a bonus track that didn’t make it into the main episode which features that discussion.
On the final episode of the “My Idiot Wife” mini-series, Nicholas, Stephen, and Hannah summarize the verdict of the impeachment trial against the president and what this means for the future of presidential accountability. Then, the team discusses how the verdict could impact the upcoming 2020 elections. Hannah makes a surprise announcement and we give a huge shout-out to Choke Cherry Designs for the new Orientalist Express logo.
LinksTrump Claims His Re-Election Is In The National Interest
Norm Breaking & The Presidency
Choke Cherry Design
This episode continues our special impeachment series with a focus on the upcoming Senate trial. Nicholas, Hannah, and Stephen talk about what this trial might look like and why it matters. The team also speculates on the what a surrealist foreign policy might look like. Hannah joins the team as a representative of the average American who does not closely follow these topics. Throughout, Hannah keeps the conversation grounded with questions designed to simply explain the impeachment process and the current charges. In the final episode, the team will discuss the outcome of the Senate trial and what happens next.
LinksThe Liberal World Order
Realism
Infographic: A Quick Guide To Impeachment
The Articles of Impeachment
Lev Parnas
National Security Democrats Push For Impeachment
The Nixon Pardon
Possible State Charges Against Trump
Article on Pardoning During Civil Conflicts
This episode continues the discussion of the impeachment against president Trump. In part two, Stephen, Nicholas, and Hannah go into detail about the exact charges against the president, the evidence behind these charges, and the ways in which these charges may become formal articles of impeachment. Hannah joins the team as a representative of the average American who does not closely follow these topics. Throughout, Hannah keeps the conversation grounded with questions designed to simply explain the impeachment process and the current charges. In future episodes, the team will discuss the final articles of impeachment and how this could play out in the Senate.
Disclaimer: The title of this series was made at the direct request of Hannah. The Orientalist Express does not consider her or anyone else an idiot.
LinksUkrainian Maidan Protests
Viktor Yanukovych
Trump - Zelensky Call Memo (Not A Transcript)
Senate Report on Russian Election Interference
US Intelligence Claims 2016 Meddling By Ukraine Is Russian Propaganda
Emoluments Clause
Who Testified in Impeachment Inquiry?
Gordon Sondland Confirms Quid Pro Quo
The Gatekeepers (Book on White House Chiefs of Staff)
Podcast Episode 13, Better Call Cohen
On this special edition of The Orientalist Express, the team discusses the American impeachment process and how this has historically happened. Stephen and Nicholas are joined by Nicholas’ wife Hannah. Hannah joins the team as a representative of the average American who does not closely follow these topics. Throughout, Hannah keeps the conversation grounded with questions designed to simply explain the impeachment process. In the next couple episodes, the team will discuss the specific claims in the impeachment inquiry against president Trump and how this whole process plays out.
Disclaimer: The title of this series was made at the direct request of Hannah. The Orientalist Express does not consider her or anyone else an idiot.
Links:
Three Branches of Government
Impeachment Infographic
Censure
High Crimes & Misdemeanors
Chief Justice John Roberts
After two dozens episodes, Stephen and Nicholas take a look back on the goals of this podcast to try to better explain the knowledge gap between average citizens and foreign policy professionals. Is it a problem of education, messaging, or do pay-walled articles prevent most people from accessing expert opinions? How can fact-based policy exist in an age when comfortable lies and enthralling conspiracy theories are better received than the truth?
LinksCatholicism Wow!
Anti-Intellectualism
What “The West Wing” Gets Wrong About Politics
Foreign Affairs Magazine
Foreign Policy Magazine
Philippines’ President Throws People Out Of Helicopters
Trump Says To Take Syrian Oil
NaNoWriMo
Pictures Of Cats That Look Like Putin
The Hell Of Good Intentions (Book)
Dunning - Kruger Effect
On this episode, Nicholas, Stephen, and Toms discuss the possible resolutions of the Iran Nuclear Crisis. Will the United States and Iran ultimately end up in a shooting war? Can a new deal be salvaged? Or will the world end up holding its breath until 2021? Then, the team gets nerdy to discuss how International Relations theories can be explained and analyzed using the popular TV series Game of Thrones.
LinksThe OE Blog Post: What are the Alternatives to an Iran Nuclear Deal?
The OE Blog Post: Panel Discussion: What would a War against Iran Look Like?
Secondary Sanctions on Iran
The OE Blog Post: The China-America Trade War Explained
The OE Blog Post: How Oman Can Save the Iran Nuclear Deal
Iranian IRGC
Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif Sanctioned
Gulf of Tonkin
Political Tribes Book
Mutually Hurting Stalemates
Political Order & Political Decay Book
On this episode, Nicholas, Stephen, and Toms discuss the problems and pitfalls surrounding European collective security. Since the end of the Second World War, the standard power dynamic in Europe has been that of the victorious Soviet (and later Russian) forces versus the various nations of Western Europe (with strong backing from the United States). With the world heading towards a multi-polar system of several powerful nations dominating world affairs, European nations have increasingly talked about the need for a more limited security partnership, one that would be exclusive only to Europeans and would not rely on the United States as heavily. What are the challenges of providing for collective European security? Do we risk another devastating European war if we get this wrong? Then, the team discusses their thoughts and predictions just before the final episode of the epic series Game of Thrones. Beware of spoilers!
Links
PESCO
Military Industrial Complex
Financial Times article about PESCO
Angela Merkel discusses U.S., Russia, and China as adversaries.
Nord Stream Pipeline
China Belt and Road Initiative
This episode takes a deep dive into America’s recognition of the area known as the Golan Heights as part of Israeli territory. Stephen and Nicholas debate the importance of this measure and discuss the impacts (if any) that this will have on the average listener. Is this the sign of more change to come, or merely a recognition of the decades-long reality of this region of the world?
Links
Golan Heights Blog Post
Jerusalem Status Blog Post
1967 Arab-Israeli War
2019 Israeli Elections
Netanyahu Promises West Bank Annexation
West Bank Settlements Map
Nord Stream Pipeline
On this episode, Nicholas and Stephen tackle the immigration debate. In particular, we break down the main solutions being pursued by various nations to the problems of immigration including the benefits and risks of each. These include walls, temporary asylum, permanent citizenship, deportation, and refugee camps. Then, the team pivots to a quick summary of the crisis in Venezuela and asks the question, “Does America’s current actions qualify as an interventionist coup?”
LinksStephen Howard
Second Generation Radicals
Hannah Ardent
Long-Term Immigration Benefits
Current Refugee Numbers
Refugee Camps in Chad
American Refugee Committee
Venezuela’s Political Crisis
Russian Intervention in Venezuela
For Fun: Pink Floyd “The Wall”
On this episode, Nicholas, Stephen, Valida, and Matthew debate the criteria and preconditions needed to justify international intervention. In other words, when would the United States be justified to conduct a military intervention in a dictatorship or humanitarian crisis? Is there ever a justification, or should policymakers look only towards furthering American interests? Matthew and Nicholas also provide a few parenting tips that can be applied to international disputes.
LinksLeague of Arab States
The Future of War: A History
General Eric Shinseki
Obama Red Line Speech
Pakistan’s Nuclear Weapons
Copenhagen Theory
On this episode, Stephen and Nicholas discuss the possibilities of World War III and what that might look like. For decades, the world seems to have taken for granted the idea that large scale wars by great military powers is over. But what are the prospects for a global war? The team also takes a deep dive into current nuclear weapons technology and how those weapons might be used in a tactical sense in a theoretical Third World War.
Disclaimer: Though we discuss possible uses for nuclear weapons in a global conflict, it should be noted that this is not an endorsement of such tactics. We bring these up to highlight how deterrence must be considered in a whole range of different scenarios in order to prevent this type of catastrophe.
xXx (Action) Film
RAND Report on US Military Capabilities
Marshall Plan
Thomas Schelling: Arms and Influence (book)
Russian Nuclear Missile
US Nuclear Arsenal
On this episode, Stephen, Valida, and Nicholas discuss America’s grand national strategy (or lack thereof). First, the gang breaks down the importance of having an overarching policy strategy and how the United States can benefit from a more focused global policy. Then, the team offers their own ideas for what should become America’s national strategy for the next decade.
Links
Orientalist Express Article
Dean Acheson
Venezuela Refugees
American Troops in Africa
Burundi Ethnic Cleansing
Bonus Content:
Puns and bad pick-up lines abound in this episode of The Orientalist Express podcast. This time, the team analyzes America's increasingly aggressive trade policies and how effective they may be in achieving the administration's stated goals. Nicholas, Stephen, Matthew, and Toms also consider how national sovereignty is factored into trade deals across large organizations like the European Union.
Links
Global Minnesota
Trade Deficits
Washington Consensus
On this episode of The Orientalist Express, Nicholas, Stephen, and Valida analyze the classic theory by Samuel Huntington known as the "Clash of Civilizations." Written at the end of the Cold War, this theory stated that global conflict would start to fall along cultural lines rather than purely ideological or economic ones. After three decades, does this theory hold up?
The Clash of Civilizations
Subdivisions (Rush)
The Looming Tower
Uyghur Camps
Offshore Balancing
This is the inaugural episode of our new mini-series Flashpoints. On this series, The Orientalist Express team will provide their quick takes on a variety of hot conflicts around the world. On this episode, Nicholas, Stephen, Valida, Matthew, Daniel, and Sebastien discuss the following topics:
Israel/Palestine
South China Sea
Yemen
Ukraine
Syria
Venezuela
On this episode, the Orientalist Express goes global as we introduce two new contributors and try desperately to avoid talking about the British royal wedding. Sebastien Mouret joins the team as a student of international affairs from France, while a Latvian specialist under the name Daniel Storm also makes a debut appearance. They join Nicholas, Matthew, Stephen, and Valida for a discussion of the Iran nuclear deal and its fate after the U.S. withdrawal this month. Then, the gang takes a look at the tense situation in Israel and Gaza, as the United States opens up a new embassy in Jerusalem.
ZTE Embargo
Hannah Arendt
Lebanon Civil War
Iran Nuclear Deal
Jerusalem Embassy
On this episode, The Orientalist Express welcomes a special guest to discuss the recent raid on the law office of Trump's personal lawyer Michael Cohen. Criminal defense lawyer Grant Miller joins Nicholas Hayen, Stephen Howard, and Matthew Spencer-Kociol to discuss the implications of attorney-client privilege and how it could relate to a future criminal case. Then, the gang examines the recent strikes against Syria in response to its continued chemical weapons use. Did the president have the correct authorization to issue this military intervention?
Attorney-Client Privilege
2001 AUMF
This episode is all about "the cyber." Nicholas. Matthew. Stephen, and Valida team up to discuss the emerging problems of cyber warfare. How is cyber warfare different from conventional warfare and is any deterrence possible? Then, the team breaks down the issues surrounding the proliferation of social media, Cambridge Analytica, and the role of these in waging information warfare.
Office of Personnel Management Hack
Russia Infrastructure Hack
Spear Phishing
The Sisyphean Task
On this episode, Stephen, Valida, and Nicholas are joined by our newest contributor Matthew Spencer-Kociol. The discussion this time is all about the process of democratization, or how a nation chooses to adopt democratic governance over authoritarian rule. Stephen also reveals a telling secret about his true reptilian identity.
Rentier State
Hegemonic Norms
Washington Consensus
WTO – World Trade Organization
Joseph Nye Soft Power
Walt and Mearsheimer
This episode is all about the Olympic Games, or at the very least the international relations drama behind them. Nicholas, Stephen, and Valida discuss the North Korea situation, Russia's meddling in the Olympic doping scandal, and the value of the Games in foreign policy.
On this episode, we continue our back to basics approach by looking to further understand the Liberal International Order. Nicholas, Stephen, and Valida discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of the order as it pertains to the everyday American. From economics, to human rights, to global security, there are certainly benefits and drawbacks that an American-led power structure seem to provide.
The Liberal International Order Explained
Panel Discussion: The Liberal International Order
In our first podcast of 2018, we introduce our newest contributor Valida Azamatova. She joins other South Dakota State University grads Nicholas Hayen and Stephen Howard to begin our back to basics approach to educating people about foreign policy and international relations. We begin by talking about the foundations of what is known as the "Liberal International Order." (Not to be confused with American liberal political ideas.) Then, the team makes some predictions about possible hotspots for conflict in 2018.
Thucydides Trap
Ukraine & Russia
China in the South China Sea
The Liberal International Order
With the international agreement over Iran’s nuclear weapons program in doubt, Nicholas Hayen and Stephen Howard discuss the possible impact of re-imposing sanctions. They also debate the larger impacts of this decision on the Middle East and the possibility of that the U.S. Congress will try to stall on the question of Iranian sanctions.
Rational Security Podcast
JCPOA
Iran Nuclear Deal Blog Post
MEK Definition
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps
Kurdistan Blog Post
Balkanization Definition
As a tumultuous summer draws to a close, Stephen, Kurt, Brandon, and Nick discuss the active debate surrounding ISIS fighters and their future in a post-caliphate world. Should nations attempt to rehabilitate returning fighters who have surrendered, or deny them re-entry into their home countries? Then, the team answers one of the most divisive topics in modern international relations: Is the world safer with nuclear weapons?
Nuclear Security Link
Nuclear Stockpile Report
Syria Conflict Live Map
Second Strike Capability
Rational Security Podcast
At the 101st day of the new administration, Stephen, Kurt, and Nick react to America's increasingly cozy relationship with dictators, authoritarians, and leaders who project strength. Is this policy just a reflection of realism, or should the U.S. do more to promote democracy and human rights throughout the world? Then, the team discusses the recent referendum in Turkey and why some people would vote away their own democratic powers. Lastly, Kurt and Stephen revive our Key Terms segment with a look at Populism and Illiberal Democracies.
LINKS
Liberal International Order
Liberal International Economic Order
Ross Perot
Fethullah Gulen
NATO Article 5
In Episode 04, the usual team is back together to discuss reactions to the Trump administration's travel ban against seven Muslim majority nations. In the second half, the team finally disagrees about something when confronting rumors that the Muslim Brotherhood may be designated as a terrorist organization.
In Episode 03, we react to the first days of the Donald Trump administration and its impacts on Middle East policy. First, we take a critical look at Israeli settlement policy and the prospects of peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Then, Kurt explains the rise of authoritarianism in Turkey and the constitutional changes that grant president Erdogan even more powers. And Stephen closes out the episode with remarks on the death of former Iranian president Rafsanjani.
LinksThe Third Intifada
Peace of Westphalia
Turkey's Constitutional Changes
Fethullah Gulen
Gezi Park Protests
Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani
Iranian Green Revolution
In this week's episode, the team discusses the intersection of American foreign policy and the Russian government. We begin with a continuation of last week's debate about likely Russian policy under the coming Trump presidency and then transition into a general discussion about Trump's picks for cabinet level positions regarding national security. Finally, we introduce a new segment called Key Terms, which is designed to help explain some of the jargon often used in the study of international relations.
In our first ever podcast, the Orientalist Express team takes a look at the future of several key Middle Eastern issues in light of the recent election of Donald Trump to the American presidency. Our main focus includes the likely breakdown of the Iran nuclear deal and the future of the Syrian Civil War. Contributors include Nicholas Hayen, Stephen Howard, Brandon Kenney, and Kurt Guner.