Over Here, Over There: International Politics & Culture Podcast

Over Here, Over There looks back at the NO KINGS march and the Democratic election successes that followed, using both to outline a path forward for strengthening democratic norms, behaviours, and institutions that have been undermined by the Trump Administration. Not since the Civil War has the United States been so internally divided and under threat, even as foreign adversaries grow stronger and more audacious in their attempts to weaken the US and its allies. Claudia and Dan explore innovative strategies to counter these destructive forces—tactics that can be implemented now—and urge Democrats to elevate leaders who are bolder, more forward-thinking, and more effective in confronting Trump’s anti-democratic agenda.

More ideas and strategies will be explored in future episodes, so stay tuned. For now, listen, engage, and join the conversation—and please don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share the episode with thoughtful people like yourselves.

Stay for the bonus track: our adopted theme tune, “10%” by The Pleasure Bombs — now an anthem of the pro-democracy movement. Hear the song’s backstory in our previous episode, where we interviewed the band in Bari, Italy. 

You'll find The Pleasure Bombs' other great hits on Bandcamp. Just create an account and sign in, and enjoy tunes like 'Plunge into the Sea', 'The Lovelist Weed', and more. 

We took a short break, but we’ve been busy building new content. Much more is on the way. Visit our website at overhereoverthere.org for updates.

Over Here, Over There co-host Dan Harris speaks with BBC Radio Wiltshire presenter Graham Rogers about the implications of Donald Trump's unprecedented second state visit to the UK, exploring the political dynamics, public opinion, and the expectations from both sides regarding trade and international relations. The risk is mainly on the UK side as it tries to score diplomatic points in the background, away from the pomp and pageantry on display before Trump. Will it be a risk worth taking? Tune in for the conversation, and please don't forget to like, share, and subscribe. Thank you!

In this fourth on-the-ground update, Claudia from "Over Here, Over There" Podcast explores Kathmandu’s return to life. But what's next? Nepal´s geography makes it a coveted piece on the world’s chessboard. Can it stay independent, or will it become a playground for superpowers? Discover why Nepal’s strategic location, enormous hydropower potential, and vital rivers can shape the future far beyond the Himalayas, and learn why Nepal’s fate should matter to you, wherever you live. 

Tune in for smart insights on Himalayan geopolitics and its future. Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and join the conversation—your thoughts and stories matter!

My multi-talented #podcast colleague, #Claudia #Koestler, is fearless. Thinking she would have an intriguing and relaxing holiday in #Nepal (and other #South Asian countries), upheaval and unrest followed her arrival in that mystical country. Instead of barricading herself in her hotel room, she headed into #Kathmandu's streets in true consummate journalistic fashion to witness the widespread protests, the collapse of the government, and the ensuing #military takeover, which has now restored some semblance of order. As Claudia reports, after 25 deaths from live ammunition (the most in Nepal's history) and the burning down of government buildings and the old regime's residences, #Nepal’s former Chief Justice #Sushila #Karki, a reformer and bulwark against corruption, has now been sworn in as the interim President. Catch Claudia's fascinating update in this latest 'Over Here, Over There' episode, and her insight as to why revolution in this #Himalayan country concerns us all. Please don't forget to like, subscribe, and share it. Thank you!

In this update, Claudia Koestler shares her experiences in Kathmandu amidst ongoing riots and political turmoil. Claudia describes the surreal atmosphere, the collapse of the government, and the resulting safety concerns for both locals and foreign visitors. She highlights the grassroots efforts of citizens to maintain order in the absence of police and reflects on the broader implications of the crisis.

Here are some highlights that Claudia covers:

• The atmosphere in Kathmandu is surreal amidst the chaos.
• Protesters view the situation as a war, not just a crisis.
• The government's collapse has left travelers in a precarious position.
• The absence of police is met with relief by some locals.
• Convicted criminals are now free due to the police's disintegration.
• Citizens are forming watch groups for self-defense.
• Foreign visitors face unique safety concerns during unrest.
• The Hilton's destruction symbolizes political retribution.
• Personal safety is a constant concern in volatile situations.
• Vigilance is essential for navigating such crises.

Please don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode and podcast with like-minded people who care about the on-going crisis in Nepal and other hotspots 'Over Here, Over There'. Thank you!

Reporting directly from Kathmandu, in this episode of the “Over Here, Over There” podcast co-host Claudia uncovers what's behind Nepal’s violent Gen Z protests after the controversial social media ban. Caught right in the middle of the ongoings, she explores the roots of youth anger, exposing corruption and lavish lifestyles among politicians’ families, and revealing why the ban felt like a betrayal of freedom and democracy - and what it means for the EU, UK and the US.

► Why did the Nepal government ban Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube?
► How did Gen Z take to the streets—and what does it mean for free speech?
► What lessons can Europe and the US learn from Nepal’s crisis?
► Are social media platforms fueling unrest and division worldwide?
► Is there a future for independent, ethical online platforms?

Join Over Here, Over There for real stories, and global analysis. 

Over Here, Over There's Dan Harris speaks with BBC Radio Wiltshire and Gloucestershire host Graham Rogers again this week regarding the White House EU Summit regarding peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. After a disappointing meeting in Alaska for President Trump, can he rally EU leaders with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who have gathered for an unprecedented meeting at the White House to discuss their response to Russian President Putin's demands for a possible solution to the conflict? The stakes are high on all sides, and the world will see how far the Trump Administration will go in favouring Russia over America's long-standing allies, a position that no other President has taken in US history. 

The conversation focuses on the diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict in Ukraine, particularly the meeting between President Zelenskyy and President Trump, alongside European leaders. The discussion highlights the complexities of foreign policy, the influence of leadership decisions, and the implications of the ongoing war on global relations and resources.

Takeaways

• Diplomatic efforts are crucial in halting the conflict in Ukraine.
• Zelenskyy's visit to the White House is significant for Ukraine's future.
• Trump's previous meeting with Putin raised concerns about his stance on Russia.
• European leaders' presence at the White House indicates a united front.
• Zelenskyy cannot constitutionally give up land without parliamentary approval.
• The Donbass region is strategically important and rich in minerals.
• Past agreements with Russia have failed, raising doubts about future guarantees.
• Trump's desire for a Nobel Peace Prize may influence his decisions.
• The ongoing war impacts U.S. domestic policies and resources.
• The outcome of the meeting could redefine U.S. foreign policy.

Sound Bites

• "A big day at the White House."
• "Trump seems easily swayed by Putin."
• "What is Trump's endgame?"

Please don't forget to like, subscribe and share the podcast. We'd very much appreciate it. It's available on all major podcast platforms. You can also check out our website www.overhereoverthere.org and support us on Patreon. Thanks!

BBC Radio Wiltshire and Gloucestershire host Graham Rogers explores with Dan Harris, political commentator and podcast co-host 'Over Here, Over There', the significance of JD Vance's visit to the Gloucestershire-Wiltshire border. Dan describes JD Vance's background, the role of the Vice President, and Vance's potential future in politics. The discussion highlights Vance's rise in prominence compared to previous vice presidents, his political aspirations, and the implications of his actions on the international stage.

Takeaways

• JD Vance is a rising political figure with a military background.
• He has a legal education from Ohio State and Yale Law.
• Vance's book 'Hillbilly Elegy' gained him significant recognition.
• The Vice President's role can be influential, especially in the Senate.
• Vance's visit to Fairford Air Force base is seen as a strategic move.
• He is positioning himself for a potential presidential run in 2028.
• Vance's controversial views align with the MAGA movement., 
• His international engagements enhance his political profile.
• The Vice President's visibility is often determined by the President.
• Vance's popularity exceeds that of many past vice presidents.

This episode is available on all major podcast platforms (YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. Please don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to the podcasts with good people like yourselves. We'd really appreciate it.

We're off on our summer break and will begin OHOT Series 4 in September. However, we'll be dropping a few episodes when needed, so stay tuned and make sure you turn on the 🔔  notifications, so you don't miss an episode.

Sound Bites

• "Who is JD Vance?"
• "His rise has been quite amazing."
• "He's in pole position for the GOP nomination in 2028."

What if a song could inspire a global movement? Join us for a powerhouse episode of the Over Here, Over There Podcast as we welcome the legendary Pleasure Bombs, the band behind the podcast’s iconic theme, “Increase Democracy By Ten Percent,” for their first in-depth interview in years!

Discover why “Increase Democracy By Ten Percent” continues to be a bold anthem for freedom and justice, and why it should be the hymn for our generation as democracy faces new challenges across the world.
Dive into exclusive stories linking the Pleasure Bombs’ music to the fall of the Berlin Wall and moments that changed the world, and also behind-the-scenes connections between the song, the band, and the hosts.

You can listen to '10%' at the end of the episode, or on Bandcamp here, along with some other great tracks for the Pleasure Bombs' 'Food Plus Sex Equals Nature' album. 

Join the conversation—hit like, comment, share, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes where history meets the present!

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Step into the heart of London’s legendary West End Theatre scene with hosts Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler as they sit down with Silvia Melchior from the iconic Donmar Warehouse Theatre! 🎭

Discover why the West End is hailed as the best theatre scene in the world, and what makes the Donmar Warehouse a totally unique gem—an intimate space where world-class plays and Hollywood A-listers like David Tennant, Adrien Brody, and more light up the stage.

In this exclusive episode of Over Here, Over There, Silvia Melchior pulls back the curtain on the Donmar’s secrets:

• How does a small theatre attract global superstars?
• Why do celebrities choose the Donmar over higher-paying gigs?
• What challenges does the West End face, and how does the Donmar thrive against the odds?
• What can theatres worldwide learn from London’s innovative approach?
• Why is the Donmar Warehouse a role model for the arts and the future of theatre?

Get inspired by stories from behind the scenes, learn what draws stars to this intimate London stage, and find out why the Donmar Warehouse is the beating heart of the West End. Whether you’re a theatre lover, an aspiring actor, or just curious about the magic of London’s arts scene, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and star power!

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more exclusive interviews and deep dives into the world’s most fascinating cultural hotspots!