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.

Carol Walker, a political commentator and Times Radio presenter, teams up with Charles Hecker, a Russia expert and author, to dissect the intricacies of Zelensky's upcoming meeting with a US army delegation. They delve into a draft peace plan's unfeasibility for Ukraine, emphasizing political impossibilities regarding territorial concessions. The duo also explores Trump's strategic motives towards Ukraine and questions whether Europe can step in to support Ukraine should US backing wane, alongside reflections on political dynamics affecting New York's mayor-elect.

In this episode, Murat Shekhar, CFO of Turkish Airlines, shares insights on the airline's ambitious growth and innovative digital strategies in aviation. Fashion producer Lily Austin discusses how fashion houses are investing in films, balancing brand visibility with storytelling. Charles Hecker dives into the international media landscape, analyzing Trump's high-profile lawsuit against the BBC and its implications. The podcast delves into Canada's pivot towards China and the political stakes of Marine Le Pen's trial, impacting French elections.

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.