Charles Hecker

Angela Stent, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, shares expert insights on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and its economic toll. Charles Hecker delves into the risks companies face when considering re-entering Russia. Josh Weinstein discusses the cruise industry's resilience and evolving consumer behavior. Max Chafkin analyzes Elon Musk's influence on business innovation. Kathleen Delaski speaks on the future of education amidst rising costs, while Arash Hashemi shares his culinary journey promoting healthy eating.

Geoffrey J. Hall, a Japanese politics expert, dives into the implications of Japan's new Prime Minister, Sanae Takechi, discussing her ultra-conservative policies and the tricky coalition landscape. Alex Szczerbiak analyzes the political fallout of recent Russian drone incursions in Poland, highlighting the fleeting sense of unity among parties. Charles Hecker reviews major news, including L’Oréal's acquisition of Kering’s beauty portfolio, pondering the effects of corporate consolidation on creativity in the industry.

In this insightful discussion, Charles Hecker, a seasoned author and Russia analyst, delves into the recent US government shutdown. He examines the political standoff, its impact on federal workers, and the significant economic costs involved. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the Global Sumud Flotilla, highlighting international reactions and legal complexities following its interception. Hecker also reflects on Jane Goodall's remarkable legacy in primatology and the shift in Zimbabwe's agriculture from tobacco to an emerging blueberry market.

Alex von Tunzelmann, a historian and cultural analyst, joins Charles Hecker, a Russia expert, to dissect the week's news. The discussion dives into alarming incursions into Estonian airspace and NATO's response, viewed through a Finnish lens. Petri Burtsoff shares insights on Nordic teens and their relationship with technology, including a mobile phone ban in schools. Tyler Brûlé explores Swiss lifestyle trends and the allure of foreign pharmacies, while also touching on the evolving landscape of media censorship under political pressures.

In this engaging discussion, Charles Hecker, a Russia analyst, sheds light on Trump’s surprising shift regarding military aid to Ukraine. Latika Burke talks about Australia’s diplomatic juggling act with China, while Hannah Lucinda-Smith reports on Turkey's cultural censorship as Spotify threatens to withdraw. Fiona Wilson celebrates the 80th anniversary of the beloved Moomins, exploring their influence on culture and themes of friendship. The conversation seamlessly weaves between geopolitics and whimsical nostalgia.