WAC Houston

The war in Iran has dominated every headline. But in Gaza, there is no ceasefire. The suffering didn't pause; it just stopped being covered. In this episode, Maryanne Maldonado sits down with Dr. Alice Rothchild, physician, author, filmmaker, and one of the most unflinching voices on the Gaza crisis. A former Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School with nearly 40 years of practice as an OB-GYN, Dr. Rothchild has spent decades traveling to Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel, documenting what mainstream media doesn't show. She serves on the board of the Gaza Mental Health Foundation, is a member of the Jewish Voice for Peace Health Advisory Council, and has written multiple books on the human cost of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including Broken Promises, Broken Dreams, and On the Brink, translated into multiple languages. She's also a Jewish American who has dedicated her life to telling the Palestinian story. That combination, medical credibility, firsthand access, and moral courage, makes her one of the most important voices you can hear right now. While the world's attention shifts, Dr. Rothchild reminds us: Gaza is still there. And the people inside it still need the world to pay attention. Why Dr. Rothchild matters on this subject: Nearly 40 years as an OB-GYN, former Harvard Medical School faculty Has traveled to Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel repeatedly since the late 1990s Author of multiple books on Palestinian health and human rights Producer of the award-winning documentary Voices Across the Divide Board member, Gaza Mental Health Foundation Jewish Voice for Peace Health Advisory Council member Co-founder of Americans Jews for a Just Peace — Boston One of the few American Jewish voices with direct on-the-ground Gaza experience. Hosted by Maryanne Maldonado | The Greater Loop — A podcast of the World Affairs Council of Houston Subscribe for global affairs content that connects the world to your world.

The fall of Assad. The capture of Maduro. A ceasefire in Iran. On the surface, it looks like Russia is losing ground, but is it? Dr. Angela Stent, one of the world's leading experts on U.S.-Russia relations and author of Putin's World, says the picture is far more complicated than the headlines suggest. In this episode, Maryanne Maldonado sits down with Dr. Stent to unpack what's really happening inside Russia, whether Putin's grip on power is as strong as it appears, and what a Trump-era reset of U.S.-Russia relations actually means for Ukraine, Europe, and the global order we've taken for granted. From sanctions and oil revenues to NATO fractures and China's quiet role — this is the conversation that puts it all in context. Hosted by Maryanne Maldonado | The Global Lens — A podcast of the World Affairs Council of Houston Subscribe for global affairs content that connects the world to your world. Topics covered: Is Russia really losing influence — or just recalibrating? Putin's grip on power and rising domestic pressure The Trump-Putin relationship and what it means for Ukraine Why a negotiated peace remains out of reach Sanctions, oil revenues, and Russia's economic cracks Europe's fear that Russia's ambitions go beyond Ukraine China's role as Russia's most critical lifeline The shift toward a post-Western global order

India is rewriting the rules of global power, and nobody does it quite like New Delhi. In this episode of The Global Lens, host Maryanne Maldonado sits down with Ambassador Rahul Chhabra, a 40-year veteran of Indian diplomacy, to break down how India is simultaneously managing its relationships with the United States, Russia, and China without fully committing to any of them. From buying Russian oil while courting Washington, to resetting ties with China while keeping troops at the border, India is executing one of the most complex foreign policy balancing acts in modern history. Ambassador Chhabra calls it "strategic autonomy", and he explains exactly what that means, why it works, and how long India can keep it up. In this episode: Why India refuses to pick a side, and why that's actually strategic How Trump's pressure on Modi over Russian oil is playing out India's tactical stabilization with China (and why it's not a real reset) The role of soft power in India's rise as a global force What India's rise actually means for Houston, Africa, and Southeast Asia Why India is now a rule-shaper, not a rule-taker Whether you follow geopolitics closely or you're just trying to understand what's happening in the world right now, this conversation will give you the full picture. Want to see Ambassador Chhabra in person? He'll be speaking live in Houston on April 9, 2026, at Asia Society Texas. Don't miss it https://wachouston.org/event/1077-indias-global-leadership/ Subscribe so you never miss an episode. #India #Geopolitics #ForeignPolicy #IndiaChina #IndiaUS #BRICS #Modi #GlobalAffairs #Diplomacy #TheGlobalLens #WACHouston

In a polarized era, history can become a subject of political contention. Many see America as perfect; many others argue that the national experiment is fundamentally flawed. The truth, Meacham shows, likely lies between these extremes. America has had shining hours, and also dark ones. In American Struggle, Pulitzer Prize-Winner Jon Meacham illuminates the nation’s complicated past. This rich and diverse collection covers a wide spectrum of history, from 1619 to the twenty-first century, with primary-source documents that take us back to critical moments in which Americans fought over the meaning and the direction of the national experiment. From the founders to Lincoln to Obama, from Andrew Jackson to Theodore Roosevelt to Ronald Reagan, from Seneca Falls to the March on Washington, this chorus—sometimes discordant and always fascinating—tells the story of the country and of its people. As clashes over liberty and slavery, inclusion and exclusion, play out, these voices, brilliantly framed by Meacham’s singular commentary, remind us that contentious citizenship and fair-minded observations are essential to bringing about the more perfect union envisioned in the Preamble to the Constitution, which Frederick Douglass called a “glorious liberty document.” Conflict is nothing new in our democracy; rather, as Meacham and these texts show, tensions are inherent, stubborn, and perennial. And American Struggle teaches us anew that to know what has come before, to watch as long-running disputes rise and fall, is to be armed against despair. Featured Speaker: Jon Meacham Jon Meacham is a Pulitzer Prize–winning biographer. The author of the New York Times bestsellers Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power, American Lion: Andrew Jackson in the White House, Franklin and Winston, Destiny and Power: The American Odyssey of George Herbert Walker Bush, and The Soul of America: The Battle for Our Better Angels, he is a distinguished visiting professor at Vanderbilt University, a contributing writer for The New York Times Book Review, and a fellow of the Society of American Historians. Meacham lives in Nashville and in Sewanee with his wife and children.

What is really happening inside modern Russia—and what does it mean for the future of global security? In this episode, veteran journalist and former CNN Moscow bureau chief Jill Dougherty joins the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston to unpack the power dynamics shaping Vladimir Putin’s Russia and its growing impact on the world stage. Drawing on decades of experience covering the Kremlin, Dougherty explores how Russia has shifted from the relative openness of the post–Cold War era to a system increasingly defined by centralized power and strategic control. The conversation traces Putin’s early ambitions—from his student years in Leningrad to his career in the KGB—and how those formative experiences continue to shape his leadership style today. The discussion also examines Russia’s evolving geopolitical strategy, including its relationships with China, Iran, and North Korea, and how these partnerships are reshaping global alliances. From nuclear signaling to hybrid warfare tactics such as cyber operations, sabotage, and election interference, Russia’s actions continue to test the resilience of NATO and Western democracies. Dougherty also analyzes Putin’s current strategic posture amid ongoing tensions involving Ukraine and Europe, highlighting why some experts see his approach as increasingly cautious—and what that may signal about the future of the conflict. For policymakers, students of international relations, and anyone trying to understand today’s rapidly shifting global landscape, this episode offers essential insight into one of the most consequential geopolitical stories of our time. Watch to gain a deeper understanding of Russia’s strategy, the fragile balance of power in Europe, and the risks that could shape international security in the years ahead. Jill Dougherty served as CNN’s Moscow Bureau Chief for almost a decade. She reported on the presidencies of Boris Yeltin and Vladimir Putin, as well as the political career of Mikhail Gorbachev, the first – and last – Soviet president. She covered a number of seminal events in modern Russia, including the collapse of the Soviet Union; the coup against Gorbachev; Ukraine’s Orange Revolution and Maidan Revolution of Dignity; Georgia’s Rose Revolution; Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Dougherty served as CNN White House correspondent for six years, covering the presidencies of George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. As Foreign Affairs Correspondent she reported from the U.S. State Department. She served as U.S. Affairs Editor, reporting from Washington, DC. Based in Hong Kong, she was Managing Editor CNN International, Asia-Pacific, in charge of sevenbureaus across the region. She currently is a CNN on-air contributor, commenting on Russia-related issues; Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University’s Center for Eurasian, Russian and East European Studies; Distinguished Fellow at The Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars; and Fellow at the Kennan Institute. She has pursued research on Russia and the media as a fellow at the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government; at the Woodrow Wilson Center; and at the International Centre for Defense and Security in Tallinn, Estonia. Dougherty received her B.A. degree in Slavic Languages and Literature from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and her M.A. from Georgetown University, where she researched Russia’s soft power diplomacy.

Escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran are reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. In this episode of *The Greater Loop* from the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, host Maryanne Maldonado sits down with Middle East expert Mona Yacoubian to unpack the rapidly evolving crisis and what it could mean for regional stability and global security. The conversation explores the key triggers behind the latest escalation, including stalled negotiations reportedly mediated by Oman, military strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities, and the broader strategic questions driving the conflict. Were these actions meant to weaken Iran’s military infrastructure, deter future threats, or signal something larger about regime stability and regional power dynamics? Yacoubian and Maldonado also examine how the crisis is reverberating across the region—from tensions in the Gulf to potential spillover involving Lebanon and Iran-aligned groups such as Hezbollah. They discuss how proxy networks, alliance politics, and the credibility of U.S. commitments to regional partners are shaping responses across the Middle East. The episode also dives into the diplomatic dimension of the crisis, including the role of back-channel negotiations, international oversight bodies such as the United Nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency, and the difficult path toward de-escalation. At stake is more than a single confrontation. This moment could redefine the regional order, influence global energy markets, and test the balance between military pressure and diplomacy. With insights into escalation dynamics, alliance management, and the uncertain future of U.S. strategy in the Middle East, this conversation provides essential context for understanding one of the most consequential geopolitical developments of our time.

What really determines success in hostage negotiations? It’s not just intelligence briefings or strict protocols — it’s trust, relationships, and human instinct. In this powerful conversation, Roger D. Carstens, former U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, shares a rare behind-the-scenes look at high-stakes international hostage diplomacy. Drawing from cases involving Brittney Griner and Evan Gershkovich, Carstens explains why there is no single playbook when negotiating with nation-states versus terrorist groups. He reveals the unseen work that begins long before headlines break — the countless conversations with families, coordination across government agencies, quiet alliance-building with foreign partners, and the critical role of intuition when data alone isn’t enough. In an era increasingly shaped by AI and analytics, Carstens makes the case that empathy, listening, and moral courage remain the most powerful tools in crisis diplomacy. Ambassador Roger D. Carstens served as the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs (SPEHA) at the U.S. Department of State from 2020 to 2025. During his tenure, he orchestrated and led negotiations with the Taliban, Syria’s Assad Regime, Venezuela’s Maduro government, the People’s Republic of China, Russia, Belarus, and Foreign Terrorist Organizations such as Afghanistan’s Haqqani Network, Yemen’s Houthis, and Mali’s JNIM, returning over 65 American hostages and wrongful detainees during the Trump and Biden Administrations. He also prioritized supporting the families of those detained, partnering with them and keeping them informed of the work being done to bring their loved ones home. Prior to assuming this role, Mr. Carstens was a Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. He previously served in Amman, Jordan, as the Country Director for a U.S.-based international nongovernmental organization (INGO) that provided humanitarian assistance to Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons. Prior positions include Senior Civilian Advisor on the Commander’s Advisory and Assistance Team (CAAT) in Afghanistan; Project Director for an INGO based in Somalia; Senior Fellow at the Center for a New American Security; and Special Assistant for Legislative Affairs in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Mr. Carstens is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel who served in Special Forces and the 1st Ranger Battalion. He is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy and holds master’s degrees from the U.S. Naval War College and St. John’s College. Mr. Carstens is the recipient of the 2023 Robert A. Levinson Excellence in Government Service Award, was selected as a Distinguished Member of the Special Forces Regiment and received St. John’s College Alumni Association Award of Merit in 2024. He is a Member of the Board for both the Hostage U.S. and the Foley Foundation and has been selected as a Distinguished Senior Fellow at the McCain Institute. This discussion offers essential insight into international crisis management, national security strategy, and the deeply human side of global affairs.

In this program Podcast, renowned Latin American energy expert Francisco J. Monaldi, Ph.D., examines the dramatic political shift in Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the uncertainties surrounding the country’s transition. Monaldi provides a clear, grounded assessment of what comes next — not only politically, but economically. With Venezuela holding the largest proven oil reserves in the world, he explores the current realities of the country’s energy sector after decades of institutional collapse, mismanagement, and the deterioration of PDVSA. He explains why oil production fell so sharply, what would realistically be required to rebuild capacity, and whether foreign investment and U.S. oil companies could play a meaningful role in recovery.

Women are not just a nice addition; they are essential to shaping the future of energy. Discover how the Houston chapter of the Women's Energy Network is fueling a global movement that empowers women to lead in the energy industry’s most critical moments. In this episode, we go beyond the typical talk about energy and diversity to reveal concrete strategies for women striving for leadership in a rapidly evolving sector. Megan Jackson, founder of Legacy Subsea, shares how Houston’s unique energy footprint provides unparalleled opportunities for women to build confidence, influence policy, and break through industry barriers. Caitlin McNeilly, an asset engineer at Cord Energy, discusses the transformative power of mentorship, soft skills, and global perspectives that elevate women into senior roles. You'll learn about the innovative educational programs tailored to meet the technical, business, and soft skills needs of women in energy. From mastering corporate disclosures to navigating geopolitical risks like Venezuela, the Women's Energy Network offers targeted insights that fast-track careers and expand influence. Megan and Caitlin also share how local connections are creating global impact, fostering community, opening doors to high-profile panels, and shaping the industry's future through diversity. Ignoring these opportunities means missing out on the leadership shift that’s already underway. This is your chance to understand how women in Houston are leading the energy industry’s charge into a more inclusive, innovative future. An essential watch for anyone committed to growth and impact in energy today. Whether you're a woman looking to accelerate your career or a leader seeking fresh perspectives, this episode equips you with the real-world tools and inspiration to thrive. Join us as we explore community-building, mentorship, and strategic industry insights that are transforming energy leadership worldwide. Perfect for professionals, allies, and anyone eager to see diversity fuel progress, hit play and get inspired to make your mark.

In this episode of The Greater Loop, we sit down with Francisco J. Monaldi — one of the world’s leading experts on Latin American energy and oil policy — to unpack the seismic political changes in Venezuela and what they mean for the global oil market. Following the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro and the rise of interim leader Delcy Rodríguez, we analyze investor confidence, sanctions, institutional hurdles, foreign investment prospects, and shifting geopolitical risks. Monaldi gives clear, data-driven insight into why Venezuela’s oil industry collapsed, what recovery would realistically take, and how this affects energy prices, U.S. policy, and regional competition. Whether you’re following markets, geopolitics, or Venezuela’s future, this episode explains the key developments you need to know. Keywords: Venezuela oil, Francisco Monaldi, Maduro capture, Delcy Rodríguez, PDVSA, oil markets, energy policy, U.S.–Venezuela relations, global energy security, Latin America politics.

Join us on The Greater Loop as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Jake Mossawir, CEO of the Bilingual Education Institute. Discover how this Houston-based institute is transforming language education for international students and refugees, offering a unique blend of language and vocational training. Learn about their innovative programs, community impact, and future plans to expand language learning to K-12 students. Don't miss this insightful episode that highlights the power of education in bridging cultural divides. #languagelearning #houston #podcast #Education #CommunityImpact

Houston is one of the most globally connected cities in the United States, and at the heart of that global network are the women diplomats who represent their countries here. Join us for a special lunch program and panel discussion featuring the Subcommittee of Women Diplomats of the Consular Corps of Houston, a group dedicated to fostering international collaboration, elevating women’s leadership in diplomacy, and strengthening ties between Houston’s local communities and the world. Over lunch, hear directly from distinguished diplomats about how women are shaping the future of global engagement. Drawing on their diverse experiences, the panel will explore how the roles of women diplomats, education, business, & public diplomacy play in the world.