Discover how Houston cemented its reputation as Space City and why it remains the epicenter of aerospace innovation. In this episode, Megan Ortiz from Axiom Space reveals the bold next steps shaping our future in orbit — from the launch of the next-generation space station to the future of spacesuits designed for lunar missions.

You'll uncover how international collaboration, from Italy to Saudi Arabia, is transforming private space endeavors into global efforts that foster peace and understanding. Megan shares how commercial space projects are not just technological feats but diplomatic bridges, uniting nations beyond geopolitical tensions.

In this episode of The Greater Loop, we sit down with Francisco J. Monaldi — one of the world’s leading experts on Latin American energy and oil policy — to unpack the seismic political changes in Venezuela and what they mean for the global oil market. Following the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro and the rise of interim leader Delcy Rodríguez, we analyze investor confidence, sanctions, institutional hurdles, foreign investment prospects, and shifting geopolitical risks. Monaldi gives clear, data-driven insight into why Venezuela’s oil industry collapsed, what recovery would realistically take, and how this affects energy prices, U.S. policy, and regional competition. Whether you’re following markets, geopolitics, or Venezuela’s future, this episode explains the key developments you need to know. Keywords: Venezuela oil, Francisco Monaldi, Maduro capture, Delcy Rodríguez, PDVSA, oil markets, energy policy, U.S.–Venezuela relations, global energy security, Latin America politics.

Once seen as a force for peace and prosperity, globalization promised to make nations more connected, economies more efficient, and the world more stable. But the global order built on open markets and interdependence has begun to unravel, revealing the risks of relying on fragile supply chains, deepening inequality, and fueling geopolitical rivalry.

Join David J. Lynch, senior writer on global economics for The Washington Post, for a compelling discussion on how the globalization gamble went wrong and what it means for the future of the world economy. Drawing on decades of experience reporting from Washington, Beijing, and beyond, Lynch offers a clear-eyed look at how the pursuit of economic integration reshaped politics, empowered adversaries, and left democracies struggling to adapt.

This timely program examines what lessons can be learned and how the United States and its partners can navigate a world where globalization’s biggest bet may have backfired.

David J. Lynch is a senior writer on global economics for The Washington Post, covering the intersection of markets, policy, and geopolitics. With decades of experience reporting from Washington, Beijing, and other global capitals, Lynch has analyzed how economic trends shape international relations and impact everyday life. He is the author of The World’s Worst Bet: How the Globalization Gamble Went Wrong, offering an in-depth look at the risks and consequences of the modern global economy.

Join us on The Greater Loop as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Jake Mossawir, CEO of the Bilingual Education Institute. Discover how this Houston-based institute is transforming language education for international students and refugees, offering a unique blend of language and vocational training. Learn about their innovative programs, community impact, and future plans to expand language learning to K-12 students. Don't miss this insightful episode that highlights the power of education in bridging cultural divides. #languagelearning #houston #podcast #Education #CommunityImpact

As the vicious, destructive wars in Ukraine and the Middle East rage on—and US policymakers debate continuing military support in both regions—it is worth considering America’s own relationship with war in the twenty-first century. What has driven our connections to war, not just from a policy perspective, but from a cultural one as well? Why do we assume war will deliver on its promise to solve nearly all our problems overseas? And why is it that the United States spends an inordinate amount of its resources on preparing for war, yet its citizens continue to fear what they deem a dangerous world? In a wide-ranging discussion, Texas A&M University professor and US Army retired colonel Gregory A. Daddis considers both our faith in war and our fear of war and how these tensions shape our very identity as Americans in the modern world. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with historian and author Greg Daddis as he discusses his acclaimed book, Faith & Fear: America’s Relationship with War Featured Speaker: Gregory A. Daddis Gregory A. Daddis Gregory A. Daddis is Professor of History and holds the Melbern G. Glasscock Endowed Chair in American History at Texas A&M University. A retired US Army colonel, he deployed to both Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. Daddis specializes in the history of the Vietnam Wars and the Cold War era and has authored five books, including Pulp Vietnam: War and Gender in Cold War Men’s Adventure Magazines and Withdrawal: Reassessing America’s Final Years in Vietnam. He also has published numerous journal articles and several op-ed pieces commenting on current military affairs, including writings in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The National Interest. He is the recipient of the 2022-2023 Fulbright Distinguished Scholar Award, Pembroke College, University of Oxford.

Houston is one of the most globally connected cities in the United States, and at the heart of that global network are the women diplomats who represent their countries here. Join us for a special lunch program and panel discussion featuring the Subcommittee of Women Diplomats of the Consular Corps of Houston, a group dedicated to fostering international collaboration, elevating women’s leadership in diplomacy, and strengthening ties between Houston’s local communities and the world. Over lunch, hear directly from distinguished diplomats about how women are shaping the future of global engagement. Drawing on their diverse experiences, the panel will explore how the roles of women diplomats, education, business, & public diplomacy play in the world.

This Veteran’s Day, join us for a powerful conversation with retired Green Beret Scott Mann and representatives of Badger Six, an organization dedicated to rescuing Afghan allies left behind after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Together, they will recount the early days of the U.S. mission in Afghanistan, the sacrifices of their Afghan allies, and the ongoing humanitarian fight to evacuate and resettle those left behind under Taliban rule.

In this episode Jorge Franz, Senior Vice President of Tourism and Industries at Houston First, discovers how Houston First promotes the city as a top destination for visitors, manages key city assets, and fosters international relations. Jorge shares insights on Houston's vibrant tourism industry, the city's global appeal, and exciting future developments, including the expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center and hosting major international events. Tune in to learn why Houston is a dynamic, international city with endless opportunities.

#houston #Tourism #worldaffairs

In this episode of The Greater Loop, we sit down with John Moseley, Chief Commercial Officer of the Port of Houston, to explore the dynamic role the port plays in both local and global trade. Discover how the Port of Houston, the largest in the United States, contributes significantly to the Texas economy and supports the local community through various initiatives. John shares insights into the port's growth, its impact on international trade, and the exciting future that lies ahead. Tune in to learn about the challenges and opportunities in navigating one of the world's busiest ports.

Kevin Pasha, Managing Director of Wealth Management at JPMorgan. Discover insights into Houston's evolving economy, the city's vibrant cultural scene, and how global trends are shaping local industries. Kevin shares his unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing Houston, offering a glimpse into the future of this dynamic city. Tune in for an engaging conversation that highlights Houston's everlasting potential.