How Space Became a Tool of Diplomacy

What does space exploration have to do with global diplomacy?

In this episode of Talking Foreign Affairs, host Adil Cader sits down with Charles Bolden, former NASA Administrator and veteran astronaut, for a rare look into how science has shaped international cooperation at the highest levels.

From commanding shuttle missions to leading NASA during one of its most politically complex periods, Bolden reflects on how space became a channel for peacebuilding — particularly between the United States and Russia. He shares gripping stories from space and beyond, including efforts to preserve ISS cooperation even as political relations back on Earth grew tense.

This conversation unpacks the quiet power of science diplomacy, why space still matters in foreign affairs, and how global collaboration is possible even in divided times.

A must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of exploration, leadership, and diplomacy.

Tune in, share it with a friend, and explore more episodes in the Talking Foreign Affairs series — where world leaders and changemakers share the stories behind the headlines.

In this episode, former WTO Director-General Pascal Lamy joins Adil Cader for a candid conversation on why trade is about peace, power, and the planet, not just money.

From the collapse of WTO dispute mechanisms to the fragile balance between climate policy and international commerce, Lamy unpacks the future of multilateralism, the risks of nationalism, and why global trade rules need a serious reboot.

🎧 A must-listen for anyone interested in international relations, diplomacy, climate policy, and economic justice.

#TalkingForeignAffairs #WTO #PascalLamy #GlobalTrade #ClimatePolicy #InternationalRelations #Diplomacy #Multilateralism #PeaceThroughTrade #EconomicJustice

Former WTO Director-General Roberto Azevêdo speaks with Adil Cader about how global trade intersects with climate action, public policy, and the power of the private sector.

They explore the broken consensus model at the WTO, how developing countries are carrying the cost of climate rules, and why private corporations might just lead the next big wave of climate action.

🎧 From WTO reform to regenerative agriculture, this episode is packed with insight on where global trade is heading and who’s shaping it.

#TalkingForeignAffairs #WTO #RobertoAzevêdo #GreenEconomy #TradeAndClimate #GlobalTrade #PrivateSectorLeadership #SustainableDevelopment #InternationalPolicy #EconomicReform

In light of Professor Joseph Nye's recent passing, Talking Foreign Affairs is spotlighting our 2021 conversation with "the architect of modern international relations".

He gave us the language of soft power and smart power — ideas that remain foundational in diplomacy today.

In a world of rising tensions and blurred alliances, Nye leaves us asking:

What kind of power will really matter in the 21st century?

We were honoured to feature his voice on the podcast.

It was fierce, it was viral — and it still shakes up the internet over a decade later. 💥

The Hon Julia Gillard reflects with Adil Cader on the speech that made history, the generational divide on gender equality, and what we can all learn from the fight for inclusion and respect.

🎙️ A powerful episode on feminism, politics, and legacy — from one of the world’s most trailblazing leaders.

#TalkingForeignAffairs #JuliaGillard #MisogynySpeech #GenZ #Leadership #GlobalSouth #GenderJustice #WomenWhoLead

Adil Cader continues his conversation with former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon — one of the most influential voices in international diplomacy and global leadership.

In this second part, Ban Ki-moon offers deep insights into the need for urgent climate action and the power of sports diplomacy to bridge global divides.

He reflects on the role of gender equality in leadership and the values that must drive the next generation of changemakers.

Stay until the end to find out if the United Nations can really unite a divided world, and how.

Adil Cader begins his conversation with former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon — a leader whose journey from a small Korean village to the helm of the United Nations is truly inspiring.

In this first part, we explore how Ban Ki-moon’s early experiences during the Korean War shaped his passion for diplomacy, what it takes to be an effective negotiator in global affairs, and the human side of leadership in times of crisis.

What lessons can young leaders draw from Ban Ki-moon’s remarkable journey? Stay tuned to find out.

Adil Cader continues his conversation with the world’s foremost expert on chimpanzees, Dr. Jane Goodall. 

Previously, we explored Dr. Goodall’s impactful career, the dreams that started it, and the insightful learnings that she has gained through the years. If you have not listened to part 1 yet, we encourage you to check it out first and then come and enjoy this episode.

In this part, we explore how Dr. Goodall’s Roots and Shoots program empowers young leaders and discuss the impact of social media and technology on animal conservation. We’ll also touch on the effects of COVID-19 on global activism and Dr. Goodall’s insights on women's representation in science and leadership. 

What role do you play in shaping global environmental policy? Stick around to find out. 

In this conversation, Adil Cader sits down with Dr. Jane Goodall, a global leader bringing about great change in her role as a noted anthropologist.

In this first part, the world's foremost expert on chimpanzees explores her impactful career and the dreams that started it. 

What can we learn from the conflict resolution and nurturing behaviors of chimpanzees, and can we apply those lessons to global leadership and mentorship? Stay tuned to find out.

Talking Foreign Affairs empowers young leaders to play an active role in foreign affairs by making diplomacy accessible, one conversation at a time.

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