The Missing Piece [International]

Today, we’re looking at a political shift that is redefining the American Dream and the very structure of the economy. The rising tide of democratic socialism, once a fringe label, is now a mainstream movement with a powerful foothold in Congress. While its focus on wealth inequality resonates with millions, critics warn that the policy prescriptions—from sweeping federal job guarantees to massive wealth redistribution—could fundamentally alter free-market principles and individual liberty, posing concerning questions for the nation's long-term fiscal health and personal freedom.But while the left pushes for this transformation, the right is quietly building a counteroffensive. Donald Trump is wasting no time gearing up for the midterms, leveraging his formidable base to back a new wave of "America First" candidates. With a laser focus on turnout and a strategy that weaponizes culture war issues, the former president is positioning himself as the kingmaker of the 2026 cycle, aiming to reclaim a congressional majority and cement his vision for the GOP's future. We’ll break down the battle lines.

These days, we’re looking at a major political fracture. Tucker Carlson, once the most powerful voice in the MAGA movement, has officially broken with the Republican Party after 35 years. His reason? He says the party has abandoned "America First" to prioritize foreign interests, a direct clash with Trump over the Iran war. This split signals deep instability within the conservative coalition, with Carlson claiming many will follow him out.Why does this matter now? As America turns inward, the geopolitical stakes couldn't be higher. The U.S.-China competition is quietly reshaping global alliances, and whoever wins the technological race for AI and quantum computing will define the next century. With American democracy facing a major test this November, the outcome here will directly impact that global contest.Dr. Michael Patrick joins the latest show to discuss more.

This week, the US-Iran deal is dominating headlines, and Vice President JD Vance is at the center of a confusing and contradictory messaging storm. Vance, once a private skeptic of war with Iran, has now become the administration's chief defender of a deal critics call a capitulation. But should Vance be thinking harder about the narrative he's selling? On one hand, he claims Iran's nuclear program is "destroyed" — a claim U.S. intelligence reportedly disputes — while also touting "gentlemen's agreements" not in the written deal. The message is muddled further as Vance warns Israel not to criticize Trump, even as Trump himself undermines negotiations with threats of force from afar. Add to that Vance's own failed trip to lead talks and an Iranian snub at the negotiating table. So what’s the real strategy? Guest Info: Dr. Jamsheed K. Choksy is a Distinguished Professor, former Chair of the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures, former Chair of the Department of Central Eurasian Studies, and current Director of the Inner Asian and Uralic National Resource Center at Indiana University - Bloomington.

Three years into Russia’s full-scale invasion, the battle for Ukraine isn't just on the frontlines—it’s in the White House. The world watched in disbelief as President Trump openly berated President Zelensky, echoing Kremlin talking points and suspending critical intelligence sharing. This wasn't diplomacy; it was a betrayal of democratic solidarity. But it’s part of a pattern: a foreign policy defined by whiplash, transactional tantrums, and a dangerous indifference to alliances. So, as the U.S. veers from unreliable to openly hostile, the question falls to Europe. How does the EU respond to this chaos? Do they finally step up as a sovereign defense power, or continue to chase a fading American promise? We’re breaking down the strategy, the stakes, and the stark new reality for a continent left to defend itself.Guest info: Dr. Alexander John Motyl is an American historian, political scientist, poet, writer, translator, and painter. He is a resident of New York City. He is professor of political science at Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey, and a specialist on Ukraine, Russia, and the Soviet Union.

“America feels like it’s coming apart at the seams—and that’s where we’re starting today. On one side, political polarization has turned neighbors into enemies, and faith in democracy is hanging by a thread. Meanwhile, Donald Trump keeps framing China as a pushover, a nation that will simply fold under pressure. But is he dangerously misreading Beijing’s long game? We’ll break down why China’s strategy isn’t weakness—it’s patience. And as if that wasn’t enough, the escalating war between the US and Iran is sending shockwaves through the global economy. Oil prices are spiking, markets are reeling, and American families are feeling the pinch at the pump. How did we get here—and is there a way out? Guest Info: Dr. Marcus De Freitas is Senior Fellow at Policy Center for the New South, focusing on International Law, International Relations and Brazil, and is currently a Visiting Professor of International Law and International Relations at China Foreign Affairs University in Beijing, China.

It would be foolish to believe that American government has successfully ended the war with Iran, despite what Trump posted on social media. Based on the latest report, Iran has officially rejected any possible proposal from the US, and demanded American government to re-consider the terms and agreements. At the same time, Trump has delegated Marco Rubio to "take care of" Cuba, and any relevant concerns. What does it mean in fact? How should we know that Trump's party is going off the course? Is it too late to make the changes? Guest Info: https://open.spotify.com/show/1sCv2FRl8yAI1ri8X4T4ss

"Imagine a machine that doesn’t just calculate, but creates. That doesn’t just respond, but reasons. We’re asking the uncomfortable question: What happens when AI stops acting like a tool and starts emulating you? From mimicking conversation to showing emotional nuance, AI is blurring the line between human and machine. But here’s the real challenge—it’s not just copying us; it’s outthinking us. Outpacing our logic, our creativity, even our biases. So what’s left for humanity? Will we be partners, puppets, or relics? Join us as we explore a future where our own intelligence is no longer unique—just the starting line. Guest Info: Dr. John MacCormick is a computer science author, educator, and researcher. He grew up in New Zealand, studied mathematics and computer science in England, and now lives in Pennsylvania, USA. His latest book is called "Thinking AI: How Artificial Intelligence Emulates Human Understanding."

In Nepal, the Himalayas aren’t the only barrier. Across this nation of 30 million, spotty or non-existent internet access cuts millions off from the global economy. Imagine trying to earn a living wage when you can’t apply for remote work, check market prices for your crops, or access online banking. Students fall behind. Small businesses lose customers. Young people leave. While the world goes digital, entire villages stay silent—and poverty deepens. Today, we ask: In a country where connectivity could lift wages and transform lives, why is the web still out of reach? How should the world understand the crisis at this moment? In this brand-new episode, we will address all the details.

Today — China and Brazil: a trade partnership now topping $150 billion, fueled by soy, oil, and green tech. But while Beijing deepens its foothold in Latin America’s largest economy, where is Washington? Some analysts say the US is quietly stepping back — distracted by rivalries elsewhere and losing influence in its own ‘backyard.’ From Brazil’s Belt and Road flirtation to the shrinking appeal of dollar-denominated deals, we’re asking: Is the US ceding ground in Latin America on purpose? Later, we’ll talk to an economist in São Paulo about why Chinese infrastructure loans are outpacing US investment — and what that means for regional politics. In this special episode, we will talk about all the details. Guest Info: Dr. Marcus Vinicius De Freitas is Senior Fellow at Policy Center for the New South, focusing on International Law, International Relations and Brazil, and is currently a Visiting Professor of International Law and International Relations at China Foreign Affairs University in Beijing, China.

Based on the latest report that American President Donald Trump's visit to China was rather unfruitful, in terms of "asking" China to help with the war between the US and Iran. Iran continues to see the political threat from the US, despite the fact that both sides agreed to re-open the talk again. It is one thing that China helps with the global economy, it is another major concern that Trump can't trust Iran. In this episode, we will dive into the details. Guest Info: Professor Jamsheed K. Choksy is a Distinguished Professor, former Chair of the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures, former Chair of the Department of Central Eurasian Studies, and current Director of the Inner Asian and Uralic National Resource Center at Indiana University - Bloomington.

For this brand-new episode, we’re talking about the billionaires pulling the strings—and why so many oligarchs are suddenly stepping back from political parties. From Moscow to Washington, these ultra-wealthy power brokers used to bankroll campaigns and call in favors. Now? They’re going independent, staying silent, or pivoting to tech and media instead. What changed?We’ll break down the new risks—public backlash, sanctions, and the rise of populism that doesn’t want their money. Plus, we’ll look at the deeper trend: political divisions aren’t just between left and right anymore. Around the world—from Brazil to Hungary to India—the old party loyalties are crumbling. Fragmentation, extremism, and anti-establishment movements are reshaping democracy. So, are oligarchs fleeing because parties can no longer protect them? Or are they building new forms of influence outside politics? Guest Info: Dr. Christopher A. Hartwell is Professor of International Business Policy, ZHAW School of Management and Law, and Professor of International Management, Kozminski University.

For decades, we’ve heard it said: “American democracy needs moral people.” But what if today’s most visible form of Christianity is doing the opposite? Welcome back. In this episode, we’re looking at how the MAGA movement has distorted religious faith — turning a gospel of humility, justice, and care for the stranger into a flag-waving culture war weapon. The result? A Christianity that increasingly fuses with partisan power, economic grievance, and loyalty to a single leader.Scholars warn this isn’t just bad religion — it’s a threat to democratic norms. When faith abandons institutional checks, embraces conspiracy narratives, and sanctifies political victory over civic process, democracy weakens from within. We’ll explore how “Christian nationalism” reshapes worship into political spectacle, why pluralism suffers, and what it means when pastors start using pulpits as campaign stages.Guest Info: Dr. Matthew Boedy has written for many publications and authored three books. He's appeared on CNN and MSNBC and in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and other media outlets. He has been a leader in faculty organizing since 2020 as president of the Georgia conference of the American Association of University Professors. He is the author of the book called "The Seven Mountains Mandate-Exposing the Dangerous Plan to Christianize America and Destroy Democracy."

This episode, we’re cutting through the noise on the latest from Ukraine. Over the past 48 hours, reports have confirmed intensified drone and missile strikes along the eastern front, with both sides digging in as winter approaches. Meanwhile, NATO held an emergency session—reaffirming artillery and air defense pledges, though stopping short of new troop commitments. The alliance is visibly uneasy about supply lines as political gridlock brews in Washington. Speaking of which: the US is now floating long-term solutions beyond stopgap aid. Think multi-year security guarantees, a NATO membership roadmap, and using frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine’s grid. But can these plans survive election-year politics? From the battlefields to the briefing rooms, we’ll break down what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what a “permanent peace” might actually cost. Guest Info: Dr. Sergiy Korsunsky is a Senior Adviser at the Nihon Cyber Defense Co., Ltd. He served as Ambassador of Ukraine to Japan in 2020-2025. Prior to that he served as Director of the Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine in 2017-2020. He holds a diplomatic rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. Ambassador Korsunsky’s previous positions include: Ambassador of Ukraine to Turkey (2008-2016), Director-General of the Economic Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2006-2008); Minister-Counselor and Acting Ambassador at the Embassy of Ukraine in the USA (2000-2005).

As we continue to pay closer attention to what is happening around the world today, especially regarding the complication of the geopolitics, it is time that we ask the question: Is there anything that we can learn from those historical leaders? How much do we know about the relationship between Churchill and De Gaulle? How did both past leaders shape the economic and the political world? In this episode, we will find out more. Guest Info: Dr. Richard Vinen specializes in twentieth century history. His current research is on Modern Britain He published Thatcher’s Britain (Simon and Schuster, 2009) and is currently working on a study of military service in post-war Britain. Previously he has worked mainly on twentieth century France and produced a number of publications on Vichy, the fourth republic and the Algerian War.

In this episode, we challenge decades of US policy toward Iran, arguing for a strategic pivot from maximum pressure to managed deterrence. We explore how Washington can secure the Strait of Hormuz—not through carrier strike groups alone, but by leveraging economic statecraft and regional diplomacy. With Iran’s nuclear threshold shrinking and global oil chokepoints under threat, the future of maritime order hangs in the balance. Tune in to understand why a new Hormuz doctrine is essential—and how US recalibration could either stabilize or shatter the emerging multipolar world.Guest Info: Dr. Jamsheed Choksy is a professor of Central Eurasian Studies at Indiana University, Bloomington. Professor Jamsheed Choksy’s research broadly covers the development of societies, especially sectarian communities, in Central Asia, the Near East and South Asia studied through interdisciplinary approaches involving history, religious studies, international affairs, politics, anthropology, archaeology, language.

Since President Trump expressed his interests in "taking over" Cuba, the Cuban government has been very anxious. It is one thing to listen to the political rhetorics from Trump, it is even more concerning to see how Trump will make it happen. Geopolitical games are no longer the same, instead, it is making more chaos these days. In this brand-new talk, Professor Weyland joins the show to share more details. Guest Info: Professor Kurt Weyland's research interests focus on democratization and authoritarian rule, on social policy and policy diffusion, and on populism in Latin America and Europe. He has drawn on a range of theoretical and methodological approaches, including insights from cognitive psychology, and has done extensive field research in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Peru, and Venezuela. After receiving a Staatsexamen from Johannes-Gutenberg Universitat Mainz in 1984, a M.A. from UT in 1986, and a Ph.D. from Stanford University in 1991, he taught for ten years at Vanderbilt University and joined UT in 2001. He has received research support from the SSRC and NEH and was a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center in Washington, DC, in 1999/2000 and at the Kellogg Institute, University of Notre Dame, in 2004/05. From 2001 to 2004, he served as Associate Editor of the Latin American Research Review.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the intricate political and economic ties between Japan and the US—a partnership that defines stability in the Indo-Pacific. But with Trump’s upcoming visit to China, the calculus is shifting. Will Washington send strong signals to its key allies, Japan and Taiwan, or will the promise of a deal with Beijing raise new anxieties? We’ll explore the high-stakes diplomacy and what it means for the future of the alliance.Guest info: Dr. Michael Green is CEO of the U.S. Studies Centre at the University of Sydney and Henry A. Kissinger Chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Previously, he was Director of Asian Studies and Chair in Modern and Contemporary Japanese Politics and Foreign Policy at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. During the George W. Bush administration, Green served as Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs and Senior Director for Asian Affairs at the National Security Council. He is the author of Line of Advantage: Japan’s Grand Strategy in the Era of Abe Shinzo, among other books.

It is rather confusing to understand the political, and the military strategies under American President Donald Trump, when it comes to the war with Iran. Over one month into the war, the international community still seeks "better answers" from Trump, while other parts of the world look for better economic and political partners. In this brand-new episode, Mr. Avraham (Avrum) Burg, who served as interim President of Israel for 20 days, from July 12 to August 1, 2000, joins the show to talk about the current political state in Israel and what we should expect from America. Guest Info: Mr. Avraham (Avrum) Burg is a thinker, a writer and a peace activist. Avrum Burg began his political career in the movement against the Lebanon War. He continued on to a long political career where he served in a variety of public positions including in the Knesset as a member of the Labor Party, Speaker of the Knesset, and Chairman of the Jewish Agency.

President Trump launched a war of choice against Iran, declaring victory one moment while demanding NATO allies join the fight the next . But Germany said ‘this is not our war,’ and the EU insists it was ‘not consulted’ . So why did the alliance refuse to help? Because under NATO’s charter, this conflict falls outside their defensive boundaries, leaving Trump fuming that the alliance is a ‘one-way street’ . Today, we dissect the contradictions in Washington’s strategy and why traditional allies are keeping their distance."Guest Info: Prof. Jamsheed K. Choksy is a Distinguished Professor, former Chair of the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures, former Chair of the Department of Central Eurasian Studies, and current Director of the Inner Asian and Uralic National Resource Center (US Title VI) at Indiana University - Bloomington. In 2008, he was nominated by President George W. Bush to the National Council on the Humanities and served as a member of the council until 2019.

Four years. That’s how long Russia thought this war would take—days. Instead, we are now entering the fifth year of a conflict that has become a brutal test of will. And as the missiles keep flying and the front lines barely move, two very different pictures are emerging.On one side, you have Ukraine. A nation that, despite the cold and the constant pressure, is more unified than ever. We’re seeing it in places you can’t measure on a map—in the secret ceremonies where special forces bind themselves to centuries of warrior tradition, reminding themselves that they are not just soldiers, but a single, unbreakable 'pack' . This isn’t just about holding the line; it’s about identity. It’s about survival.And on the other side? Russia. A country that increasingly looks strong only on the surface. Sure, the cafes in Moscow are still open, but beneath that facade, the confidence is cracking . The Kremlin is burning through unimaginable resources—over 1,280,000 troops lost, thousands of tanks destroyed—just to grind forward a few meters at a time . They are paying an insane price of 156 soldiers for every square kilometer of land they occupy .Today, we’re going to look at the shifting momentum of this war. How Ukrainian unity is solidifying into an unbreakable wall, and why Russia—despite its size—is starting to show the cracks of a losing effort.Guest Info: Paul Hockenos is a Berlin-based journalist. His recent book is Berlin Calling: A Story of Anarchy, Music, the Wall, and the Birth of the New Berlin.

Sitting US President Donald Trump promised to end the war with Iran soon, given the fact that his administration has caused major international concerns and military confusion. It is one thing to know how this war will cause domestic sacrifice among the voters, it is another issue to add unwanted anxieties upon the international leaders. In this brand-new conversation, Dr. Jamsheed Choksy will explain the latest from Trump and Iran. Guest Info: Dr. Jamsheed Choksy is a professor of Central Eurasian Studies at Indiana University, Bloomington. Professor Jamsheed Choksy’s research broadly covers the development of societies, especially sectarian communities, in Central Asia, the Near East and South Asia studied through interdisciplinary approaches involving history, religious studies, international affairs, politics, anthropology, archaeology, language.

More Than four years, war in Ukraine continues to be the attention of the international community. In addition to the reactions and the political shifts in the US, leaders in Europe are also demanding the active participation of the US. According to the recent political expert, it is time for Ukraine to give up and ask for further dialogues from Russia. Will Ukraine do as it is needed? How about the voices of the European allies? Guest info: Professor Michael C. Desch is the Packey J. Dee Professor of International Relations at the University of Notre Dame and founding Brian and Jeannelle Brady Family Director of the O'Brien Notre Dame International Security Center.

It is never America's job to choose the next leader for The Islamic Republic of Iran, according to the Trump administration. The destiny is in the hands of Iranian people, if they desire. Some believe Trump administration should leave the nation alone, let alone putting boots on the ground, while others oppose. In this special interview, we will discuss all the necessary details. Guest Info: Professor Jamsheed K. Choksy is a Distinguished Professor, former Chair of the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures, former Chair of the Department of Central Eurasian Studies, and current Director of the Inner Asian and Uralic National Resource Center (US Title VI) at Indiana University - Bloomington. In 2008, he was nominated by President George W. Bush to the National Council on the Humanities and served as a member of the council until 2019.

Tensions are at a breaking point. President Trump is weighing a military strike on Iran, with options on the table that range from limited attacks to a full-scale campaign . But behind the scenes, his own generals are pushing back. We’re learning that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, has personally warned the White House that an attack could be far more dangerous than anticipated—pointing to depleted munitions, the risk of a prolonged conflict, and the threat to American troops . So, is the U.S. heading toward war? And will Trump listen to his top advisors or pull the trigger? Today, we break down the military standoff with Iran and the last-ditch diplomatic talks in Geneva that could decide it all. Guest info: Professor Jamsheed Choksy is a Distinguished Professor, former Chair of the Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures, former Chair of the Department of Central Eurasian Studies, and current Director of the Inner Asian and Uralic National Resource Center (US Title VI) at Indiana University - Bloomington. In 2008, he was nominated by President George W. Bush to the National Council on the Humanities and served as a member of the council until 2019.

We've heard of the United Nations, but what about the Board of Peace? Donald Trump has created a new world order—literally. His much-ballyhooed Board of Peace is officially up and running, with the goal of tackling global conflict. But rather than bringing clarity, it's leaving the world more confused than ever . Allies are divided, with some European powers refusing to join while authoritarian regimes sign up . With a billion-dollar price tag for permanent membership and Trump holding the gavel, is this a genuine peace initiative or a Trump-branded clubhouse? We break down the new power play." Guest Info: Professor Paul Poast is an associate professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Chicago, where his area of research and teaching is international relations.

Sierra Leone is one special nation today, given the fact that natural resources are plethora, as well as the hospitality of the people. This African nation continues to allure travelers around the world. Meanwhile, this nation has gone through so much in the past few decades, especially how social and political changes created deeper memories for many. In this special interview, Betsy Small, author of a new book called " Before Before: A Story of Discovery and Loss in Sierra Leone," joins the show to share her stories while living and working in in Sierra Leone.

Many people believe Donald Trump is a personalist because his leadership style prioritizes loyalty to him above all else—over political ideology, party platforms, or even institutional rules . He has reshaped the Republican Party into what scholars describe as a "personal political vehicle," where control is maintained through unwavering fealty rather than traditional party structures. Ultimately, the perception stems from how Trump has centralized power around his persona, making himself the singular focus of his political movement. In this episode, Professor Seva Gunitsky, an associate professor of political science at the University of Toronto, joins the latest show to talk more. His work examines how international forces like war and globalization shape democracy and domestic reforms.

As we continue to pay much closer attention to the complication of geopolitical games these days, it is equally crucial for us to understand how fat the world has come. The issue of slavery has been critical for us, as we prepare to step forward to a new year. In this special episode, we will talk to Dr. Carries Gibson, author of the amazing book :The Great Resistance: The 400-Year Fight to End Slavery in the Americas." Dr. Gibson will share with us the research and the details in this book. Carrie Gibson is the author of three works of history: The Great Resistance: The 400-Year Fight to End Slavery in the Americas (2026), El Norte: The Epic and Forgotten Story of Hispanic North America (2019), and Empire’s Crossroads: A History of the Caribbean From Columbus to the Present Day (2014). Prior to gaining a PhD in history at the University of Cambridge in 2011, she worked as journalist for The Guardian and Observer in London. She is currently living in Seoul, South Korea.

Can a single conflict rewrite the rules of global power? Since the full-scale invasion, Ukraine has become the epicenter of a struggle not just for territory, but for the future of the international order. By defiantly defending its sovereignty, it challenges the very idea of spheres of influence and redraws the boundaries of security. This reset hinges on a pivotal, often paradoxical player: China. While officially calling for peace, Beijing’s economic and diplomatic support for Russia provides a critical lifeline, positioning China not as a neutral mediator, but as a decisive architect of whatever new world emerges from this war.Dr. Alexander John Motyl is an American historian, political scientist, poet, writer, translator, and painter. He is a resident of New York City. He is professor of political science at Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey, and a specialist on Ukraine, Russia, and the Soviet Union.

In this new episode, we turn to Syria—a nation shattered by over a decade of civil war, now a fractured chessboard of regime control, foreign militias, and humanitarian crisis. The economy is in freefall, with currency collapse and crippling sanctions deepening civilian despair. Enter President Trump, whose policy has been defined by a sudden withdrawal of U.S. troops, a focus on defeating ISIS, and stark warnings to adversaries like Iran and Russia, all while imposing the heaviest economic pressures yet on Damascus. We examine the volatile results of this "America First" approach to a deeply complex war.Guest Info: Dr. Jamsheed Choksy is a professor of Central Eurasian Studies at Indiana University, Bloomington. Professor Jamsheed Choksy’s research broadly covers the development of societies, especially sectarian communities, in Central Asia, the Near East and South Asia studied through interdisciplinary approaches involving history, religious studies, international affairs, politics, anthropology, archaeology, language.

What is happening in the city of Minneapolis draws the attention beyond the domestic audience. The ongoing protests and riots are causing major political and economic concerns for both the Democrats and the Republicans. People in China and Iran are seeking opportunities to "re-engage" with US, as the international policies continue to shift. In this special episode, Dr. Michael Patrick, a renowned international affairs scholar joins the show to share his insights and analysis.

In Vietnam, the Communist Party isn't just the sole political authority; it is the architect of the nation's destiny. Its internal structure and leadership selections are pivotal, shaping every policy turn. As Vietnam emerges as a global economic success story, this political engine is central to the transformation. In this episode, we examine how the Party's evolving power dynamics and governance directly fuel—or sometimes restrain—breakneck growth, infrastructure miracles, and ambitious reforms. In this amazing episode, Dr. Hai Hong Nguyen, Visiting Scholar In Residence of American University, and the assistant professor of international relations and global politics, joins the show to discuss the details. Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@willli9755/featured

Such unconventional but straightforward message from American President Donald Trump to the world was indeed shocking. Not only Trump mentioned his desire for Greenland, but also his unceasing wants for a "better game" which could benefit America only. In this special interview, Dr. Marcus Vinícius De Freitas, Professor Visitante, China Foreign Affairs University, and a Senior Fellow, Policy Center for the New South, joins the show to talk more.

Protests and riots continue in the nation of Iran, as the political tensions rises by the hour. It seems to be the case that the current Iranian regime is about to lose the control of the citizens and their trust in the government. Sitting US President Donald Trump warns the nation leader that American government could step in if the situation worsens. In this exclusive interview, Professor JAMSHEED K. CHOKSY, who is Distinguished Professor of Iranian and Central Eurasian Studies in the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies and Director of the Inner Asian and Uralic National Resource Center at Indiana University, joins the latest show to share his insights and analysis.

In this special interview, we're diving into the heart of Venezuela's prolonged crisis—a story of economic collapse, humanitarian suffering, and a fractured political stalemate. Against this backdrop, we’ll examine a pivotal but often overlooked factor: the Trump administration's decisive rejection of the established international order. By sidelining multilateral diplomacy in favor of unilateral pressure, his approach didn't just fail to unseat Maduro; it intensified the nation's agony and reshaped the rules of global engagement. We’ll unpack how this deliberate ignorance of complex, coordinated solutions has left Venezuela trapped and the world order more fragile.Professor Kurt Weyland is Mike Hogg Professor in Liberal Arts in the Department of Government, University of Texas at Austin. Professor Weyland's research interests focus on democratization and authoritarian rule, on social policy and policy diffusion, and on populism in Latin America and Europe. He has drawn on a range of theoretical and methodological approaches, including insights from cognitive psychology, and has done extensive field research in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Peru, and Venezuela. His latest book, Democracy’s Resilience to Populism’s Threat: Countering Global Alarmism.

In this special interview, Paul Shearman, an international actor and playwright whose work bridges the U.S., China, and the U.K., joins the show to talk about how he discovered "new life" after experiencing dramatic turns in life. Plus, Paul explains in details why 65 is the prime age to start life again.

This year's visit of Iran’s Foreign Minister to China came at a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern and global politics. With tensions escalating in the region due to the Israel-US axis and growing instability, this high-profile diplomatic engagement underscores the strategic importance of Iran-China relations. These two ancient civilizations, bound by shared interests and common challenges, are forging a partnership that holds profound implications for regional stability and global politics. In this episode, we will dive into how we should expect the relationship between China and Iran, and what US should expect in 2026. Guest: Dr. Jamsheed Choksy is a professor of Central Eurasian Studies at Indiana University, Bloomington. Professor Jamsheed Choksy’s research broadly covers the development of societies, especially sectarian communities, in Central Asia, the Near East and South Asia studied through interdisciplinary approaches involving history, religious studies, international affairs, politics, anthropology, archaeology, language.

Dr. Michael Patrick, one renowned international journalist and a scholar on international relations, joins the latest show. In the conversation, Michael shares his perspectives on what happened this year between US and China, and how 2026 midterm election might make bigger impact beyond the US.

In an era of strategic competition and global uncertainty, the bedrock of America's alliances is being tested. From European capitals to the Indo-Pacific, partners are reassessing their roles. How should we understand this pivotal moment? Are current tensions a sign of weakening bonds, or a necessary evolution of shared burdens? While challenges over trade, defense spending, and priorities are real, the common foundation of security and democratic values remains. The future of these ties won't look like the past—it demands more adaptability and deeper cooperation to navigate a more complex world. In this brand-new episode, Professor Paul Poast joins the show to elaborate more in his recent article. Professor Paul Poast is Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago and a Senior Nonresident Fellow at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs.

Looking into 2026, everyone hopes that relationship between US and China will be much better, especially we are looking at the political and economic joint efforts. President Trump anticipates his state visit to China next year, while President Xi looks forward to better collaboration with more American business owners. In this conversation, Mr. Thomas Gehl, an experienced American businessman, international renowned consultant, joins the show to talk more.

While the world has grown richer, the gap between the rich and everyone else keeps widening. This is economic inequality—and it’s one of the most defining issues of our time.It shapes our health, our politics, and our opportunities. It fuels social unrest and undermines trust. From the cost of living crisis to debates over fair taxation, its effects are everywhere.In this brand-new conversation, we’ll explore why this decades-old problem isn't just a statistic, but a powerful force that still dictates the lives of billions and determines the future of our global community. Professor David Lay Williams is the professor of political science at DePaul University. He is the author of the new book called "The Greatest of All Plagues: How Economic Inequality Shaped Political Thought from Plato to Marx."

Artificial intelligence offers powerful advantages for national security, from intelligence analysis to cyber defense. However, its dual-use nature presents significant risks. AI systems can be exploited for sophisticated cyber-attacks, autonomous weapons, and pervasive disinformation campaigns, potentially destabilizing global security. Therefore, while harnessing its benefits, nations must establish robust international guardrails and ethical frameworks. Caution is essential to prevent AI from becoming a source of catastrophic conflict rather than a tool for enhanced safety. In this episode, Sergiy Korsunsky, the former ambassador of Ukraine to Japan joins the show to talk more. Mr. Sergiy Korsunsky is the former ambassador of Ukraine to Japan. He is now a senior adviser at Nihon Cyber Defence and distinguished global scholar at Temple University, Japan Campus.

In this episode, Will invites one of the honorable and distinguished American friends to join show, regarding his journey from America to China. During the conversation, Terry shares his views on modern day global politics, international relations, and how we should understand the current polarization in America today. Most importantly, we will listen to his own personal stories which impact his life and the lives around him.

A superpower rethinks its strategy. Regional powers seize the moment. From the negotiated tables in Vienna to the front lines of an endless-seeming conflict, the entire political map of the Middle East is being redrawn. The American era, as we knew it, is evolving, leaving a question mark over the region's future. Is this a moment for de-escalation, or a prelude to a new kind of cold war? On Today's The Missing Piece, we connect the dots between Washington's decisions and the social and political tremors being felt from Tehran to Tel Aviv, and from Riyadh to Gaza."Ms. Elizabeth Dent is the Nathan and Esther K. Wagner Senior Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, where she focuses on U.S. foreign and defense policy toward the Gulf states, Iraq, and Syria. She was previously the director for the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, managing the day-to-day U.S. defense relationship with the nations of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and many more. Prior to that, she served as the special assistant to the special presidential envoy to the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, supporting diplomatic engagements with coalition countries and working with local partners on the ground in Iraq and Syria to accelerate the campaign against ISIS.

Vietnam has officially became the most popular nations for international travelers today, especially among the Chinese nationals. Despite the political differences between the two nations, Chinese flood to Vietnam during the major holidays. Will this trend help with boosting the Vietnam's domestic economic growth? Is Vietnam ready for more Chinese investments? Meanwhile, rumor has it that North Korea is slowly approaching Vietnam to avoid UN sanctions. How should North Korea understand the political engagement with Vietnam today? Dr. Hai Hong Nguyen, is the Assistant Professor of Politics and International Relations at College of Arts and Sciences of VinUniversity in Hanoi, Vietnam. He is also the Vietnamese Fulbright Visiting Scholar in Residence at the School of International Service at American University (10/2024-7/2025).

Around the world today, economic growth is one of the most important and essential aspects, especially when we are facing additional political interruptions. In the nation of Argentina, the nation is undergoing tremendous political and economic reform. There is no denying that Javier Milei, one of the most well-known politicians, is betting on the assumption that his economic agenda will continue to bring charms and amusements to the people in Argentina. In this episode, Dr. Maria Victoria Murillo will join the show to elaborate on what is happening to Milei and his economic ambitions. Dr. Maria Victoria Murillo is the author of Labor Unions, Partisan Coalitions, and Market Reforms in Latin America (Cambridge University Press 2001) (translated as Sindicatos, Coaliciones Partidarias y Reformas de Mercado en América Latina by Siglo XXI Editores), Political Competition, Partisanship, and Policymaking in the Reform of Latin American Public Utilities (Cambridge University Press 2009), and the co-author of Non-Policy Politics: Richer Voters, Poorer Voters, and the Diversification of Electoral Strategies with Ernesto Calvo (Cambridge University Press 2019) and Understanding Institutional Weakness: Power and Design in Latin American Institutions (Cambridge University Press, Element in Latin American Politics and Society Series, 2019) with Daniel Brinks and Steven Levitsky.

After his recent visit to Asia, US President Donald Trump officially shifts his attention to strengthening the economic relations with those nations in Asia, such as Japan, South Korea, and China. It is rather beneficial for president Trump to understand and appreciate the financial contribution among those key players. Meanwhile, experts believe that it is high time that nation like Japan should pay more attention to leading the region, especially how China is growing in an unprecedented way. Trump needs those nations to win big for the MAGA party. Is this the right path for Trump and his party? How should we understand the economic factors between America and those nations today? Dr. Michael Jonathan Green is professor and chief executive officer at the United States Studies Centre. Previously Dr Green was Senior Vice President for Asia at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and is on leave from Georgetown University where he was Director of Asian Studies and Chair in Modern and Contemporary Japanese Politics and Foreign Policy at the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service. He served on the staff of the National Security Council at the White House from 2001 through 2005.

During his meeting with the Chinese President Xi Jin Ping at the APEC Summit, sitting US President Donald Trump brought up the war in the Ukraine and strongly urged China to help. By doing so, both leaders agreed that modern day warfare indeed decimates the global economy, as well as the unity of internationalism. What can we expect from China? Is China ready to help with the war in Ukraine, while Russia continues to taunt Ukraine with larger fatal weapons? Dr. Alexander J. Motyl is professor of political science at Rutgers University-Newark.Alexander J. Motyl (Ph.D., Columbia University, 1984) is professor of political science at Rutgers University-Newark. He served as associate director of the Harriman Institute at Columbia University in 1992-1998. A specialist on Ukraine, Russia, and the USSR, he is the author of six academic books and the editor or co-editor of over fifteen volumes.

Trip to Asia somewhat boosted American President Donald Trump's power in dealing with economic and political competitors overseas. Meeting with South Korean President, newly elected Japanese PM, as well as Chinese President Xi Jin Ping offered Trump the opportunities to re-learn the complication within the global trading structure. At home, people in America are still suffering from the government shutdown. No pay and no reason to believe that the GOP continue to bring miracles to the voters. What is happening to the MAGA culture today? Is Trump gaining more credits overseas? Professor Kurt Weyland's research interests focus on democratization and authoritarian rule, on social policy and policy diffusion, and on populism in Latin America and Europe. He has drawn on a range of theoretical and methodological approaches, including insights from cognitive psychology, and has done extensive field research in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Peru, and Venezuela. His latest book, Democracy’s Resilience to Populism’s Threat: Countering Global Alarmism.

As American President Donald Trump continues his trip in Asia, people in Japan anxiously awaits the big meeting between the American leader and the newly elected Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi. This meeting is rather important and significant for various reasons. Meanwhile, Sanae Takaichi is gearing up for making bigger changes, regarding those domestic concerns. What can we expect between the two leaders? Will China be the center of the topic? Peter Chai is a Ph.D. Researcher at the Graduate School of Political Science, Waseda University. He holds a BA in Economics and MA in Political Science from Waseda University. His research areas are political sociology, comparative politics, and public opinion, with a regional focus on East Asia.