Firsthand Observations on the Dismantling of the Soviet Union
May 13, 2024
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Journalist and author Kevin Maney discusses the tumultuous 1990s in the Soviet Union. Topics include transition period optimism, missed opportunities, exploring the Soviet Union through fiction, changing global dynamics post-Soviet Union to post-9/11 era, and reflections on global alliances and missed opportunities in the tech industry.
Author's rediscovery and pursuit of publishing novel set in 1990s Russia.
Impact of changing political landscapes on Western business expansions in post-Soviet Russia.
Deep dives
Rediscovering a Novel after 30 Years
After writing a draft of a novel set in Russia 30 years ago, the author rediscovered it while cleaning up old printouts. Prompted by his daughter's curiosity, he revisited the novel and found it surprisingly good, sparking a renewed interest in getting it published. Over the years, the author had gained experience and success in writing nonfiction books, providing him with the knowledge and path needed to pursue publishing his novel.
Snapshot of Optimism in a Changing Russia
The novel, based on real experiences and events in Russia during a time of transition in the early 1990s, portrays an era filled with optimism and aspirations for progress. Young characters in the novel reflect the societal hope for creating businesses and engaging in private enterprises amid connections with the West. The narrative captures a moment of positivity and the anticipation of significant transformations in the country.
Business Expansion Dreams Shift Amid Political Changes
In the 1990s, businesses like McDonald's and Procter & Gamble rushed into Russia, envisioning a future with open economies and stable legal systems. The anticipation of a predictable and lawful business environment drove Western companies to invest in Russia. However, with changing political landscapes and the emergence of new leaders, the economic potential was disrupted, causing a retraction from global engagement and diminishing the optimistic business expansion aspirations.
Watch Carol and Tim LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF. Journalist and author Kevin Maney discusses his book Red Bottom Line about the tumultuous 1990s in the Soviet Union. Hosts: Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Producer: Paul Brennan.