Former allies became foes when the Soviets maintained their grip on post-war Eastern Europe to spread communism. Beyond the clash of ideologies, an arms race had begun between emerging superpowers. For decades Americans stood at hypervigilance, living under the constant threat of a nuclear exchange. When the Soviet Union finally collapsed from within, it looked like the US had won the Cold War. But from its long legacy remain the old divisions which fuel today’s conflicts.

Netflix’s Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War explores the decades-long struggle between the United States and the USSR. World leaders, prominent academics, and other witnesses to history weigh in on the existential threat of this global chess match. From detonation to détente, from the fall of the Soviet Union to the rise of Putin, the series makes the case that the Cold War still is felt in today’s hot zones.

In this episode of You Can't Make This Up, host Rebecca Lavoie interviews executive producer and director Brian Knappenberger.

SPOILER ALERT! If you haven't watched Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War yet, make sure to add it to your watch-list before listening on.

Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts.