Over Here, Over There: International Politics & Culture Podcast

In this conversation, Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler discuss the state of the U.S. presidential election and the Trump-Biden debate from the perspective of Europe. They explore how closely Germany and the UK follow the election and the media's response to the debate. They also discuss the importance of the election for the world and the potential impact of a Trump or Biden presidency. The conversation touches on the age issue of Biden, the values represented by the two candidates and their parties, and the potential outcome if Germany and the UK had the right to vote in the U.S. election. They also discuss the need to consider more than just one performance or issue when making a decision and the importance of competence in a leader. The conversation concludes with a discussion about Biden's struggles and challenges at this crucial time of his presidency and the existential threat to democracy, drawing the apt analogy of Hemingway's 'Old Man and the Sea'.

As a bonus to this discussion, we have added our theme song, Can You Increase Democracy by '10%' by The Pleasure Bombs in full at the end of the episode. A cracking tune. Enjoy!

Here are some key takeaways from the episode:

· Germany and the UK closely follow the U.S. presidential election and the Trump-Biden debate.

· The outcome of the U.S. election is of tremendous importance to the world, especially to allies in Europe and Western countries.

·  The media's response to the debate focused more on Biden's performance rather than the content and important issues at stake.

· The age issue of Biden has become a central focus, overshadowing other important issues and values represented by the candidates and their parties.

· It is important to consider more than just one performance or issue when deciding an election.

· Competence should be a key factor in choosing a leader, regardless of age.

·  If Germany had the right to vote in the U.S. election, it is likely that a majority would vote for Biden, aligning with shared values and democratic principles.

·  Biden's performance in the debate has raised concerns and may have affected his standing in swing states.

·  The analogy of Hemingway's 'The Old Man and the Sea' represents the dilemma of whether Biden should hang on or let go of his pursuit of the presidency.

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We're tackling the buzzworthy topic of cannabis legalization in Germany. Grab your preferred chill beverage and join Claudia! Cannabis in Germany has a long history, from its hemp heyday in the 1920s to its criminalization in the 1970s. Fast forward to 2017, medical cannabis was legalized, and as of April 2024, small quantities for personal use are allowed. The new law aims to curb the black market and ensure quality, but don't expect Dutch-style weed shops—Germany's sticking to cannabis social clubs and other limited channels. Opinions are split, but one thing's clear: times are changing, and so might our society. What about Claudia? Does she avail herself of this new freedom? Tune in and find out.

In the world of gift-giving, tales of the unexpected abound. From mysterious boxes that promise the world but deliver only disappointment to DIY disasters crafted with love (and lots of glue), each present tells a story. But fear not, says Claudia, even the most misguided gifts come from a place of good intentions. So, when you receive that garden gnome on a unicycle or a box of stallion semen, grin and bear it, and embrace the hilarity of the worst gifts imaginable.

Claudia Koestler humorously explores cultural quirks Europeans find peculiar about Americans, from overt patriotism and effusive customer service to long commutes and ice-filled drinks. She discusses litigious tendencies, public bathroom privacy, and circumcision norms, highlighting cultural differences while inviting listeners to reflect and share their perspectives on these intriguing observations.

Farmers strikes are prevalent throughout the EU, some of which can have a distinct impact on a country's economy and across society. In Germany, recent farmer protests have caused chaos, blocking roads and factories. In this podcast episode, Over Here, Over There' co-host Claudia Koestler provides an in-depth explanation of the ongoing farmers' protests in her country. Learn about the issues, demands, and troubles as farmers voice their concerns and fight for their rights - while some take intolerable measures and deepen the division of society. Stay informed on the background and latest developments surrounding this new and significant movement in Germany.

Having something for long a time one could start thinking, rightly or wrongly, that it is yours. The Elgin Marbles, also known as the Parthenon Marbles, are Greek sculptures that have been housed in the British Museum for more than 200 years. As Claudia explains, the Marbles were taken controversially from the Parthenon in Athens by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century. It is believed they were forcibly removed and sold to the British government, sparking a debate that continues to this day. This is a classic 'Over Here, Over There' issue about how the Greek and British governments each view this intractable matter. But let's leave it to Claudia to offer a solution and tell us why it is important not only to these two countries but to world heritage. 

Travel broadens the mind, they say. Combined with study, it provides an incredible opportunity for personal development and forms a powerful differentiator in one's career and life, including the benefits to one's own country and the international community. However, to many students, studying abroad may seem like an unobtainable goal because of the perceived cost and challenges. In this episode, hosts Claudia Koestler and Dan Harris discuss the benefits and the 'how to's' of studying abroad with Dr. Jonah Otto, International Relations Director, Research and Teaching Fellow,  and Director of Internationalization Development and Incoming Exchange at the University of Augsburg in Germany. They discuss many of the questions that weigh on students' minds when considering making the seemingly big decision to go abroad.  Dr. Otto dispels the view that studying abroad is only for the affluent and high achievers and that any student in good standing has the opportunity to study abroad with only marginal additional cost, if any. As Dr. Otto explains, there is more financial and educational support available than students may realize to make studying overseas a reality. This episode is packed with useful information, both practical and inspirational, on the value international education brings to both students and society, which is not to be missed. Enjoy!

Dr. Jonah Otto's profile:
LinkedIn
ResearchGate
University of Augsburg
University's International office
Faculty's international office


Study Abroad Programs:
Study in Germany
Erasmus
Fulbright
State University of New York at Brockport, Center for Global Education & Engagement
London School of Economics and Political Science

The rise of extremist movements throughout the world is nothing new. However, their power and influence in Western democracies is particularly startling, especially in the bastion of such a stable democracy as Germany, whose political and economic strength so many throughout Europe rely on. This is why it is hard to fathom, Claudia Koestler states, why a critical mass of her fellow countrymen and women are turning to right-wing parties like the AfD (Alternative für Deutschland ). It's easy to be dismissive of such movements, but the rise of extremism has been building over the years and has now gained power and influence, becoming a fixture on the political landscape at the local, regional, and national levels. The alarm bells are now ringing and millions have taken to the streets to support their democratic way of life.  

But are the recent protests against the AfD throughout Germany going to be effective in turning back the tide of right-wing extremism? Hear how Claudia questions the motives and efficacy of these demonstrations and who they're aimed at. While it may not change the minds of many die-hard AfD supporters, Claudia argues that it will send an important signal across Germany and the world that values, freedom, and democracy are the core of Western society and worth standing up for.

Tune in to hear how different Monday mornings are from your town or city as Claudia makes her way to work in her Alpine splendor in Bavaria. Some things may be familiar, but the breathtaking landscape certainly helps distract her from the Monday morning blues. So, if you're listening to this on your way to work in Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, New York City,  Berlin, or Sydney, just imagine - with Claudia's help - what it would be like to be among the snow-capped mountains, frosty air, and pristine lakes of this beautiful Alpine region. But remember to keep your eyes on the road! Enjoy.

The death of Russian political activist and freedom rights campaigner Alexei Navalny stunned the world for its open brazenness at the hands of Vladimir Putin and his government. There is little doubt that Putin was responsible for Navalny's death, although a Russian court of law will no doubt never adjudicate on the manner.  Navalny's death leaves Russia without a significant opposition leader, but how much of an impact will it have on Putin's regime and Russia's relationship, if there is still one that can be called that, with the US and its Western allies? It is not only a great tragedy for his immediate family, friends and supporters but also serves as an inflexion point at a time of heightened tensions between Russia and the West, with the prospects of victory for either side in Russia's war with Ukraine still in the balance. 

Over Here, Over There is honoured to discuss the impact of Navalny's death on Russia and the West with Dr Neil MacFarlane, former Head of Politics and International Relations at Oxford University and an expert on Russian foreign policy and the regional dynamics of the former Soviet Union.  Dr. MacFarlane's academic career included positions in the United States and Canada. Beyond Oxford, among many other posts, he was a Faculty Associate of the Geneva Centre for Security Policy and held a visiting appointment at the College of Europe in Bruges. 

Please join us for an engaging and informative conversation with Dr MacFarlane and insight into what lies ahead for Putin and his regime's relationship with the West.