Optimism can feel like it’s in short supply in Colombia. An IPSOS poll in September found that 89% of Colombians believed the country was “on the wrong track” – more than any other country polled. As elections approach next year, there are fears the discontent may empower more radical options. In his new book, and in his latest column for AQ, former finance minister Mauricio Cárdenas offers some ideas on how to channel desire for change in a constructive way, while weighing in on some of the major issues shaping the country today.Guests:Mauricio Cárdenas is a distinguished visiting fellow at the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University and was Colombia’s finance minister from 2012 to 2018.Brian Winter is the editor-in-chief of Americas QuarterlySupplemental reading:"How to Avoid a Caudillo in Colombia (and Elsewhere)" by Mauricio Cárdenas(https://www.americasquarterly.org/article/how-to-avoid-a-caudillo-in-colombia-and-elsewhere)