This episode explores the striking parallels between Ray Bradbury’s dystopia and today’s algorithm-driven world. Inspired by Fahrenheit 451 and a conversation with futurist Brett King, the piece examines how AI is reshaping work, decision-making, and even our ability to think independently.

In this episode, Aida Haidar shares her experience meeting Marc Randolph, co‑founder of Netflix, at the InMerge summit in Baku. She reflects on the lessons he shared about failure, innovation, and the mindset required to turn ideas into reality.

Aida explores why taking risks can be challenging in some cultures, and how true innovation emerges not from a single brilliant idea, but from many trials and errors. According to Randolph, traditional business plans often fall short — what matters is testing ideas quickly, cheaply, and simply. Most importantly, ideas are born from real problems and pain points.

For anyone hesitant to fail, or ready to take a first step, this conversation is a reminder: failure is allowed, and success comes to those willing to start small.

In this episode of Astana Times Unplugged, we sit down with Sandugash Beisenbekova founder of ShyraQ Studio, to explore why Kazakhstan’s creative industry is on the rise, and why a handmade Kazakh rug could be your next Bentley-level investment.

In this episode, we dive into the complexities of Kazakhstan’s energy transition and economic diversification with our guest Aruzhan Yesmagambetova, a researcher at the Center for Sustainable Development. Together with co-hosts Aida Haidar and Assel Satubaldina, we unpack what a just transition means for a country still heavily reliant on fossil fuels and mono-industrial cities.

At The Astana International Forum 2025, Kazakhstan’s role as a dialogue hub felt more relevant than ever.

The Astana Times correspondent observes how the country’s multi-vector diplomacy is moving beyond image — toward impact

At the WAVES Summit in Mumbai, Aida Haidar witnessed India’s booming creative economy firsthand.

Inspired by India’s vision to grow its creative sector to $50B by 2029, Aida reflected on Kazakhstan’s own rich storytelling potential. She believes Kazakhstan, with its deep traditions and emerging talent, holds an untapped cultural power waiting to be realized.

In her latest column, Aida Haidar reflects on why Dimash Kudaibergen's presence in the world is more important than ever. While she admits she’s not a fan, she recognizes his God-given talent and unmatched vocal range—something no one can deny.

But Dimash is more than just an artist. His performances aren’t just about hitting impossible notes; they carry deep, powerful messages that feel organic, never forced. His authenticity shines through, making his music resonate far beyond the stage.

Aida writes that although she has never met or interviewed Dimash, she believes that who he is on stage reflects something greater—the resilience of the Kazakh people. A nation that has endured hardships but continues to move forward with strength, generosity, and grace, never allowing adversity to turn into bitterness.

Kazakhstan celebrates Nauryz this week as a symbol of renewal, unity, and cultural heritage—but beyond the festivities, Nauryz raises deeper questions.In the second episode of The Astana Times Unplugged podcast, three journalists, colleagues and friends, sit down to explore what Nauryz means for them, what it reveals about being Kazakh today and whether identity is something we inherit or something we actively build.🔔 Join the conversation! Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe to The Astana Times channel.

Ever wondered how your favorite journalists sound when they bring their stories to life? Now, listen to select articles narrated by the Astana Times authors themselves.

How can Kazakhstan navigate the complex world of global politics while maintaining its strategic independence?

In this episode, we explore Kazakhstan’s position as a middle power, its diplomatic strategies, and the challenges of balancing relationships with global superpowers.