970: What’s the Real Danger From Russia?

Is Georgia the canary in the coal mine for a new Soviet-style rise in Eastern Europe? Studio Sponsor: Cardio Miracle - "Unlock the secret to a healthier heart, increased energy levels, and transform your cardiovascular fitness like never before.": https://www.briannicholsshow.com/heart What if the war in Ukraine isn’t just about Ukraine? What if it’s a warning shot for the rest of us? In this episode of The Brian Nichols Show, we’re diving into the underreported political firestorm brewing in Georgia - not the peach state, but the one nestled between Russia and Europe. Lika Kobeshavidze, a Georgian political writer and Young Voices fellow, joins Brian to unpack how her homeland is caught between freedom and authoritarianism, and why you should care. You’ll hear firsthand what it was like growing up in a "free" Georgia only to see it slowly slip back into the grip of authoritarianism. From Russian occupation to election rigging, to government crackdowns on peaceful protestors, Lika shares a chilling reality that sounds all too familiar in today’s global political climate. This isn’t just history - it’s happening now. But this episode isn’t just doom and gloom. It’s a masterclass in persuasion, messaging, and resistance. Brian and Lika dissect the cultural failures that allowed pro-Russia sentiment to creep back into Georgia and explore how smart marketing and narrative-building could turn the tide. Spoiler: it's not that different from what America just went through. We also tackle tough questions like: Is Russia a genuine global threat or just a declining empire with nukes? What’s really stopping the EU and NATO from welcoming Georgia in? And how can the West provide meaningful support without triggering global war? Lika doesn't pull punches - and neither does Brian. If you’ve ever wondered how liberty can die slowly - not with tanks, but with laws - this is the conversation you can’t afford to miss. Watch to the end for a rallying call to action and what YOU can do to support freedom in Georgia before it’s too late. ❤️ Order Cardio Miracle (https://www.briannicholsshow.com/heart) with code TBNS at checkout for 15% off and take a step towards better heart health and overall well-being! 📧Submit Listener Questions to [email protected] to hear your questions and perspectives answered and shared each and every week!  🎙️ WATCH The Brian Nichols Show, available on YouTube & Rumble. With over 970 episodes featuring local candidates, elected officials, economists, CEOs, and more, each show educates, enlightens, and informs. 🔗Follow Brian on social media: X.com/Twitter (https://www.briannicholsshow.com/twitter) & Facebook (https://www.briannicholsshow.com/facebook) 🔔 Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to The Brian Nichols Show for more captivating interviews and insights into common sense solutions for local problems! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices