Shows
Europod & Sphera • NewsTrump and JD Vance back Le Pen: ‘This isn’t democracy’Marine Le Pen, the leader of France’s far-right National Rally, is now, we could say, a convicted criminal. And her allies across the Atlantic, US Vice President JD Vance and president Donald Trump are not holding back, talking about witch hunts and a minor offense. But why are they supporting Le Pen and what is the reaction from France’s far right? Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.Follow us on...2025-04-0404 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsTrump slams EU with 20% tariff, retaliation plans set in motionDonald Trump’s “Liberation Day” just delivered a pretty nasty blow to the global trading system. The United States has decided to impose a 10 percent minimum tariff on all imports coming into the country. The EU, and other top trading partners like China, Japan, and Vietnam, got hit with even higher rates. What kind of economic fallout can we expect from these tariffs? And what is Europe going to do about it?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co prod...2025-04-0305 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsOrbán welcomes Netanyahu, defying ICC arrest warrantIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to visit Budapest tonight in his very first trip to a European country since the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants against him and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over war crimes committed in Gaza. But Netanyahu will not be detained in Viktor Orban’s Hungary and the ICC not only will be defied but it also has limited means to respond to this trip. But what is Hungary’s plan to defy the arrest warrant and why is Netanyahu meeting up with Orban?Join us on our j...2025-04-0205 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEPP’s NGO transparency funding review fails by a single voteOn Monday evening, the European People’s Party EPP tried and failed to push for a review of how the European Commission funds certain climate NGOs. The text voted by the MEP’s in Strasbourg argues that the Commission is basically paying NGOs to lobby for the Green Deal. Or,simply put, hiring cheerleaders for its own policies.But what is the underlying reason the EPP has declared war on NGOs and did the Commission water down the agreement over NGO lobbying transparency?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European cont...2025-04-0105 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsThe tariff war is on: what it means for Europe and how it will reactDonald Trump has warned that if the EU and Canada team up against the US, we’ll see huge tariffs, much larger than anything we’ve seen so far. This is coming after Trump announced plans to slap a 25% tariff on hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of imported cars and auto parts from countries like Mexico, Canada, South Korea, Japan, and, of course, Germany. But what does this move mean for the European car industry, and will the EU respond to Trump's latest tariffs?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the Eur...2025-03-2805 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsInvestigation reveals legal and human rights concerns in Italy-Albania asylum centresImagine risking everything to reach safety, only to be sent to another country against your will. That’s exactly what happened to Nizam, who crossed the Mediterranean for a better life in Italy, only to end up detained in a camp in Albania. He’s just one of many asylum seekers caught in Giorgia Meloni’s so-called “fast-track” asylum system. But an investigation by VoxEurop reveals the legal challenges and human rights concerns mounting. So, is this a solution to irregular migration, or just another violation of fundamental rights?Join us on our journey through the...2025-03-2704 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEU leaders push Vučić on reforms but stay silent on Serbia’s protestsSerbian President Aleksandar Vučić dined with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa in Brussels last night. And what sounds like a simple diplomatic dinner was in reality a chance for the EU to ask Belgrade to deliver on EU reforms if it wants to join the block, but nothing on the protests was discussed. So how long can the EU keep ignoring the growing protests in Serbia before it risks losing credibility in the region?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the...2025-03-2604 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsWhy US officials’ ‘pathetic Europe’ claim is a bigger deal than you thinkA bombshell report from The Atlantic has revealed private Signal messages between top U.S. officials, including Vice President JD Vance, discussing a military strike on Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The problem is that they were so casual about military operations that they let a journalist into their private chat. Yup they offered him a front-row seat to active war planning and to calling Europe pathetic.So what does all this tell us about the U.S. administration’s attitude toward Europe? And what does it mean for the future of transatlantic collaboration?Join us o...2025-03-2505 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsErdoğan jails rival fueling protests and democracy fearsOn Sunday, Turkey took a sharp turn toward full-blown autocracy. Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, arguably President Tayyip Erdoğan’s biggest political rival, was arrested and removed from office. Allegedly his crime is corruption. But in reality this is a textbook political purge. What does İmamoğlu’s arrest mean for Turkey’s political future and can Europe collaborate with a country sliding into dictatorship? Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network....2025-03-2405 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsDid Serbia use a ‘sound cannon’? Protesters call for investigationMore than half a million people have signed a petition demanding an independent investigation into whether Serbian security forces deployed a sonic weapon or a sound cannon to disperse protesters in Belgrade on March 15. The petition, addressed to the UN and the Council of Europe, calls for accountability, arguing that the use of illegal means against civilians is a serious violation of constitutional and international rights.But what is a sound cannon and what is the government's response to the allegations?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the E...2025-03-2104 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEU Summit: Ukraine, Defence and everything you need to knowSo, EU leaders have now gathered in Brussels, as they often do, to discuss Ukraine, Europe’s defense strategy, and economic competitiveness. For this summit Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will join via video link possibly in an attempt to convince Europeans to approve faster the next help package of 40 billion euros, proposed by EU’s high representative Kaja Kallas. But will everyone be on board and what else is on today’s agenda? Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europ...2025-03-2004 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsUkraine’s ceasefire on Putin’s terms. What does he want, and will it last?So, Vladimir Putin has agreed to a limited ceasefire, which basically means he’ll stop bombing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, for now. This comes after a high-stakes phone call with US president Donald Trump, who is apparently in his own bubble seeing this as a successful diplomatic move.But what does this so-called ceasefire really mean for Ukraine? And what are Putin's conditions for abiding by it?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Netw...2025-03-1904 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsGermany’s €500B spending plan: What’s at stake?In a historic vote, German lawmakers are set to decide on amendments to the country's Basic Law, their constitution. This amendment would unlock billions in funding for defense, infrastructure, and climate initiatives. Leading the charge is Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz, along with his conservative CDU party, who have joined forces with the Social Democrats and the Greens to push through a €500 billion special fund. But will this ambitious plan secure enough support? And what impact will it have on Germany’s and Europe’s political and economic landscape?Join us on our journey...2025-03-1804 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsNegligence and corruption fueled North Macedonia’s nightclub infernoA night out turned into a nightmare in North Macedonia. On Sunday morning a fire ripped through a packed nightclub in the town of Kočani, killing at least 59 people and injuring over 150. The cause of this tragedy is a mix of reckless decisions, negligence, and corruption, an all-too-familiar pattern in the Balkans. But is this another wake up call? And will anyone actually be held accountable?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sp...2025-03-1705 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsHuawei, Bribes, and the EU: A new corruption scandal hits parliament“Absolutely forbidden to open this door” signs are plastered with blue and white police tape on doors of European Parliament offices. And all this feels like a depressing déjà vu! Just a few years after the Qatargate bribery scandal rocked the EU’s only directly elected institution, accusations of cash-for-favors are once again casting a shadow on current and former European lawmakers. The “alleged bribery” would have benefited China’s tech giant Huawei, the Belgian prosecutor’s office said on Thursday. But who is involved and what is the parliament doing to fight corruption?Join us on our jo...2025-03-1404 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsCan Putin say 'nyet' to Trump’s proposed ceasefire with Ukraine?So the latest diplomatic gymnastics around Ukraine are all about the proposed 30 day ceasefire between the two countries. President Donald Trump has suggested that he might target Russia financially if Moscow refuses to accept it. This ceasefire was brokered in Saudi Arabia between the U.S. and Ukraine, and now the world is waiting for Russia’s response. Will Vladimir Putin say “nyet” to Trump or will he accept the deal?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co p...2025-03-1304 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsPortugal’s government collapses: what’s next?This is the third time in three years Portugal is heading for a snap election. The political instability is more evident than ever for the country and analysts are worried if it will have a domino effect on the already vulnerable Portuguese economy. But why is political instability becoming the norm in a country that, until recently, was seen as one of Europe’s most stable democracies? What happened this time and what implications can this have on a European level? Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European cont...2025-03-1205 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsWhy Greenland’s election is a breaking point for Denmark, the EU, and the USGreenlanders are heading to the polls today for an election that is set to be one of the most consequential in Greenland’s history. The self-ruling Danish territory will elect 31 members of its legislature, the Inatsisartut, as they do every four years, but this time, the stakes are existential. So, will Greenland remain part of Denmark, will it push for full independence, or will it strengthen ties with major powers like the U.S. and Europe?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.P...2025-03-1105 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsRussia and US backed Georgescu barred from Romanian election re-runCălin Georgescu was, just a few months ago, a fringe pro-Russian, ultranationalist known to few people even in Romania. Now the Central Electoral Bureau has decided to bar him from running in May’s presidential election rerun. This decision comes after allegations of attempting to subvert the constitutional order, extremism and endorsement of fascist leaders. But is this the final call for the authorities, and what does this reveal about foreign interference in European elections?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Pr...2025-03-1004 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsA tribute to the International Women's Day (and why it matters)Tomorrow’s International Women’s Day will not be an occasion for ‘celebration’, but for protest. As it has happened over the past few years, women and feminist movements across the globe are expected to take the streets for a massive strike: a women’s strike. In some countries, key sectors such as education, healthcare, and other industries will participate in the protests as well. But why do women strike and where does this movement historically come from?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Prod...2025-03-0704 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsWhy today’s extraordinary EU Council in Brussels is a special oneToday, 6th of March 2025, Brussels is set for yet another day of critical discussions. EU heads of state are gathering in Europe’s Capital for a much-awaited Special European Council. On the agenda? Nothing less than how the EU will act amidst a geopolitical crisis which has seen US President Donald Trump cornering Ukraine’s Volodimir Zelensky, almost forcing the latter into a peace deal negotiation with Vladimir Putin. So, what’s going to happen in Brussels today? And why is this meeting so special?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the Europe...2025-03-0604 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsThe Commission waters down CO2 targets to give flexibility to car makersThe European Commission is giving carmakers a break, relaxing its CO2 targets by introducing a three-year average instead of annual compliance. The goal? To offer "predictability and fairness" and help struggling automakers avoid billions in fines. But critics argue this is a major step back in the EU’s climate commitments, favoring industry interests over the Green Deal. Is this a necessary adjustment or just another loophole for car makers?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sp...2025-03-0505 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsWhat is Von der Leyens’s €150B toolkit for boosting EU defence?European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed the ‘Rearm Europe Plan,’ a bold strategy to channel up to €800 billion into military investments. The plan includes relaxing fiscal rules, offering substantial loans, and mobilising private capital to strengthen Europe’s defence capabilities. With Trump cutting military aid to Ukraine and hinting at a reduced NATO role, the EU faces growing pressure to take control of its own security. But as leaders debate the financial and strategic implications, a crucial question remains: is this the dawn of a stronger Europe, or are we merely fuelling an arms race that diverts...2025-03-0404 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEurope’s ‘coalition of the willing' after Trump humiliates ZelenskyyAs US president Donald Trump publicly humiliated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, Europe found itself scrambling to take charge. In response, leaders are pushing for a so-called "coalition of the willing" to provide Ukraine with security guarantees, if a ceasefire is reached. The UK and France are leading the charge, while Italy’s Giorgia Meloni is trying to mediate, leveraging her ties with Trump. But what does this coalition really entail, what does it mean for Europe and what can we expect from the EU summit on March 6th? Join us o...2025-03-0304 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsGreece: Massive protests over train disaster could crash the governmentTwo years after Greece’s deadliest train crash, the country is at a standstill. Today marks the anniversary of the Tempe rail disaster that killed 57 people. Despite repeated EU warnings about safety risks, Greece’s railway system remained dangerously outdated. Now, with no trial and growing suspicions of a government cover-up, public outrage is boiling over. So, today Greeks are taking to the streets in 350 cities worldwide, expressing their deep distrust in the government, as Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis faces his biggest political test yet.Join us on our journey through the events that shape...2025-02-2804 min
Europod & Sphera • News Austria's centrist parties form coalition, shutting out the far right Austria may finally have a government! After five months of deadlock, the conservative People’s Party (ÖVP), center-left Social Democrats (SPÖ), and liberal Neos have agreed on a coalition. This is Austria’s first-ever three-party coalition at the federal level and keeps the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) out of power, despite their win in last September’s elections. Quite the political experiment! But will it work and when will the new government be in place according to this information?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European U...2025-02-2704 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsThe EU is launching the Clean Industrial Deal, but what exactly is it?Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is headed to Antwerp to launch the “Clean Industrial Deal,” yet another time with the same big promises and the same CEOs nodding in agreement. Von der Leyen’s pitch today is all about making the European industry competitive while keeping the Green Deal alive.The Commission’s new plan is to save industry, jobs, and apparently the climate, all in one go.But can a plan fit it all and will anything actually change this time around?Join us on our journey through the events that shape th...2025-02-2604 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsFriedrich Merz won the German elections. What now?Friedrich Merz and his Christian Democratic Union won Germany’s election with a solid lead, no surprise there. However, they didn’t secure an outright majority, meaning Merz must now initiate coalition talks with other parties to form a government. The deadline is Easter, and Europe is anxiously waiting for him to make key decisions.But with a divided parliament and rising pressure from all sides, can Merz form a stable government or is Germany heading for political deadlock?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Unio...2025-02-2504 min
Europod & Sphera • News3 years of Ukraine war: EU leaders are ramping up their supportToday marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In a strong show of support, thirteen European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, traveled to Kyiv, with another 24 participating in discussions online. These meetings reaffirm the EU’s commitment to Ukraine amid ongoing war and Donald Trump turning his back to president Zelensky while causing chaos during the past few weeks..But what is the EU’s future plan and can leaders change the course of events? Join us on our journey through the events that shape the Europea...2025-02-2405 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsMerz vs. Von der Leyen: The next power struggle for Europe?Germans are heading to the polls, and it looks like Friedrich Merz is on track to become Germany’s next chancellor. That should mean a match made in heaven with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as they are both from the same party, the European People’s Party. But politics isn’t a fairy tale, and this isn’t your typical love story. If anything, it’s more like a long-running sibling rivalry.But how can this duo shape Europe’s politics and what else can we expect from the German elections?Join us on o...2025-02-2105 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsZelenskiy negotiates peace with U.S. envoy as Trump blames Ukraine for the warU.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia with Keith Kellogg, landed in Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In other conditions this would be a nice diplomatic moment, right now things are way too complicated. Zelenskyy has clarified that he wants this meeting to be “constructive,” but that’s harder than it sounds when the leader of Kellogg’s own country has been busy calling him a dictator and asking for elections to replace him. So what can we expect from these talks and what are European leaders doing in response?Join us...2025-02-2005 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBrussels drug wars: Can a police merger tackle the violence?So, Brussels is experiencing a surge in drug-related violence. In the past few weeks, multiple shootings have taken place, leaving two people dead and several others injured. Authorities say this wave of violence is linked to organized crime and the drug trade. And the new Belgian government is discussing whether merging the city's six fragmented police zones into one could be a solution to the growing crime problem. But would that actually work?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: B...2025-02-1904 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsUkraine: EU fails to reach consensus as US and Russia decide its futureSo, European leaders met in Paris for an emergency summit, called by French President Emmanuel Macron. And as we discussed in yesterday's episode the goal was to come up with a common response to the U.S. decision to start negotiations with Russia over ending the war in Ukraine, without inviting Europe or Ukraine. And to figure out what the continent most affected by this war can do to protect itself and support Ukraine. So today, we’re talking about how European leaders failed to agree on Ukraine or, really, on anything substantial. So what can we exp...2025-02-1804 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEuropean leaders in Paris, U.S. and Russia discuss Ukraine alone in RiyadhSo, EU leaders are in full-on crisis mode. Again. This time, they’re scrambling to respond to a rather blunt questionnaire from Washington, yes, an actual questionnaire, that they have to think about during their meeting in Paris and that is asking what kind of security guarantees Europe is willing to provide Ukraine. But what worries Europe, and will these talks find any point of consensus?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network....2025-02-1704 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsMunich car attack escalates security and migration debate just before electionsGermany’s upcoming election is now dominated by a single issue: migration. After a violent attack on a trade union demonstration by an Afghan asylum seeker, conservative frontrunner Friedrich Merz is doubling down on his calls for tougher law and order. Meanwhile, the far-right AfD is surging in the polls, blaming lax migration policies. With security fears shaping the debate, how will this attack influence the final days of the election campaign? And can it push Germany closer to the far right?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and th...2025-02-1405 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsTrump and Putin decide on Ukraine: Are EU-US relations at their worst?Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are reportedly pushing for peace talks to end the war in Ukraine, but with one major catch: Europe is being completely left out of the conversation. While the US and Russia make plans, European leaders are scrambling to figure out what’s next. Ursula von der Leyen insists Europe must remain at the center of negotiations, while António Costa bluntly states that the EU “cannot be treated as an ATM.” Are the EU- US relations at their worst?Join us on our journey through the events that shape t...2025-02-1305 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsZelenskyy open to swap land with Putin and to give up KurskUkraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has put forward a high-stakes geopolitical proposal: the possibility of a land swap with Vladimir Putin. The idea could fundamentally reshape the conflict, with Ukraine potentially offering part of the Kursk region, a territory that it has controlled inside Russia since a surprise incursion last year, in exchange for land currently occupied by Russia in Ukraine.But is this a real step toward peace, or a dangerous precedent?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.2025-02-1204 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEU promises ‘firm and proportionate’ retaliation to Trump’s tariffsThe European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security have responded this morning to the U.S. tariffs on aluminum and steel announced overnight, calling them unjustified and vowing that the EU will respond with "firm and proportionate countermeasures." Translation? The EU is getting ready to hit back. But how will these tariffs impact Europe, and can the EU really strike back?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Produ...2025-02-1104 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsFrance bets big: Can €109 billion put Europe ahead in AI?France is making a bold move in the AI race with a €109 billion investment, backed by private and international investors. But can Europe really compete with the US and China, or is it still too caught up in regulations? As Brussels shifts from AI watchdog to innovation hub, questions remain over funding, infrastructure, and Europe’s place in the AI-driven future. In this episode, we break down the numbers, the power plays, and what it all means for Europe’s tech landscape.Join us on our journey through the events that sh...2025-02-1004 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsUSAID Freeze: America steps back, Europe steps up?Since Donald Trump’s reelection or even before that Washington’s foreign policy has been shifting from soft power to hard power. Translation? More tanks, fewer textbooks. More weapons, less humanitarian aid. The EU, which has long relied on the U.S. for global development efforts, is now looking at a major funding vacuum as USAID, America’s premier development agency, freezes nearly $40 billion in foreign aid.So what was USAID funding exactly, and who is expected to cover the gaps now?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European contin...2025-02-0704 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsSpyware scandal in Italy: journalists, activists, and government denialWhen WhatsApp alerts you that military-grade spyware hacked your phone, it’s not just paranoia, it’s reality. At least seven people in Italy, including journalists and activists, and another 83 people in more than 24 countries were targeted using Israeli-made spyware. The Italian government denies involvement, but questions remain: Who ordered the hacks? And what does this mean for press freedom and privacy in Europe?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Netwo...2025-02-0604 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsWhat is the new special tribunal to try Putin for the Ukraine invasion?Legal experts from the European Commission, the European External Action Service, the Council of Europe, Ukraine, and representatives from 37 countries agreed on the legal framework for a special tribunal to try Vladimir Putin and his officials for the crime of aggression against Ukraine.The experts finalized the so-called ‘Schuman draft Statute’, the core legal text governing the tribunal’s functioning.But, will this tribunal really bring justice? Will Putin ever pay for what he has done in Ukraine?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the Eu...2025-02-0504 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsTrump’s tariff gamble and the price the EU may payDonald Trump announced on Sunday that the US will “definitely” impose tariffs on the EU, citing concerns over the US trade deficit with Europe. While Trump has previously made threats without following through, some of his recent tariff measures, particularly on Canada and China, have been implemented stressing European leaders. But is Trump really going to impose tariffs on the EU, and if so what would the impact be?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co...2025-02-0404 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEU Defence spending: big plans, little budgetEU leaders are meeting in Brussels today, Monday, to discuss defense spending, without committing to real investments. This follows weeks of debate on the issue, fueled by growing concerns that Russia could test and destabilize Europe’s defenses at any moment. But instead of concrete funding plans, the focus of this meeting will be on identifying the EU’s priorities, securing necessary financial resources, and reinforcing existing partnerships.Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co pr...2025-02-0304 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsMerkel slams Merz: Has Germany’s CDU opened the door to the far-right?Angela Merkel has spoken, and she’s not happy. Three years after stepping down as Germany’s chancellor, she’s publicly criticizing her successor, CDU leader Friedrich Merz, for breaking a long-standing taboo: relying on far-right AfD votes to pass an anti-immigration motion in parliament. With Germany’s elections just weeks away, Merkel’s intervention has ignited a fierce debate over whether the firewall against the far-right is crumbling for good. What does this mean for Germany, Europe, and the future of mainstream conservatism? Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent a...2025-01-3104 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsThe EU stands firm with Denmark against Trump’s Greenland ambitionsDonald Trump is once again saying Greenland should belong to the U.S., but Denmark, and the EU, aren’t having it. European Council President António Costa reminded everyone that Europe doesn’t take kindly to territorial threats and European leaders have rallied behind Denmark, making it clear that Greenland is not for sale or for the taking. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has been securing support across Europe, while Greenland’s government firmly rejects any U.S. takeover. Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.2025-01-3004 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsIs the EU’s Competitive Compass the end of the Green Deal?The Competitive Compass is the Commission’s roadmap for strengthening the EU’s economy in a rapidly changing global market. It focuses on key priorities like reducing regulatory burdens, increasing investment in innovation, and helping European businesses compete with their U.S. and Chinese counterparts. And so far so good, but what does this mean for the EU’s environmental goals? Is the Competitive Compass the beginning of the end for the Green Deal?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Euro...2025-01-2904 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsFast fashion and climate change - How is Europe tackling textile waste?Fast fashion is responsible for 8-10% of global carbon emissions, more than aviation and shipping combined, and its environmental toll continues to rise. The industry thrives on overproduction and overconsumption, flooding the market with cheap, disposable clothing that drives a growing textile waste crisis. Across Europe, millions of tonnes of textiles are incinerated, dumped in landfills, or exported to countries where waste management systems are overstretched, causing severe environmental and social repercussions.This episode explores the hidden costs of fast fashion and Europe’s response to this crisis with EU-wide regulations aimed at promoting circularity, reducing wa...2025-01-2915 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsSabotage in the Baltic: What’s happening with the cables?A critical undersea cable connecting Sweden and Latvia was damaged in Swedish waters. This isn't just a technical hiccup, it’s a geopolitical flashpoint. Was it an innocent accident caused by bad weather? Or is there a more sinister force at play? Sweden’s coastguard seized a Bulgarian-owned tanker, NATO stepped up patrols under its Baltic Sentry mission, and suspicions of sabotage are hanging heavy in the air.Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.2025-01-2804 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsJustice for Tempe: Greeks fight for truth as new evidence emergesNearly two years after Greece’s worst railway disaster, tens of thousands took to the streets demanding accountability for the 57 lives lost. In this episode, we take a look into the Tempe train tragedy, unpack the damning evidence of missing CCTV footage, the undisclosed presence of flammable materials, and the alleged cover-ups that have surrounded the case.Why is this case more than just a Greek issue and what should happen next? Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in c...2025-01-2704 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsGerman elections: Merz’s vision for Germany and what it means for EuropeFriedrich Merz, the leader of Germany’s conservative CDU party, is tipped to become the next chancellor. His party is leading the polls by a wide margin ahead of the February 23 election. If elected, Merz would replace Olaf Scholz and bring a decisive shift in both foreign and domestic policies. But what is his vision for Germany’s and Europe’s future and what can we expect after February 23rd?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera...2025-01-2405 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsKallas and Tusk: The EU needs higher defence spending"There is no choice." That’s how Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk laid it out yesterday in the European Parliament, while outlining the priorities of Poland during its EU rotating presidency. His message? Europe must arm itself, not just to survive but to thrive in a world where reliance on the U.S. for security is increasingly precarious. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative echoed this sentiment emphasising the urgent need for the EU to take responsibility for its defence.Is this a shift in Europe’s defense strategy? And are we saying yes to Donald...2025-01-2305 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEurope wake-up: Can Davos be the alarm the EU can’t ignore?Global leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos are sounding the alarm, Europe is losing ground. With the world charging ahead, Europe risks being left behind, tangled in over-regulation and a lack of innovation. Former European Council President Charles Michel is calling for bold action, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggests Europe is prioritising red tape over progress. Is Europe really sleepwalking into catastrophe, as some claim? And more importantly, how can we turn things around before it’s too late?Join us on our journey through the events that...2025-01-2205 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEurope Talks Back : [Trailer]Europe Talks Back is a journalistic podcast that unpacks the social, political, environmental, and cultural events and trends shaping Europe today. Combining the sharp expertise of guests from the field of politics, economy, and NGOs with unique insights based on on-the-ground reporting of independent media, Europe Talks Back offers a fresh perspective on European matters, which goes beyond the headlines.Join Evi Kiorri every last Wed of the month to dissect these and other themes at the heart of European debates. Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.Follow u...2025-01-2200 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEurope's new challenges: defense, energy, and trade with Trump’s returnIn today’s episode of Long Story Short, we explore how President Donald Trump’s return to the global stage shakes Europe’s delicate balance. From his bold calls for NATO allies to spend 5% of GDP on defense to promises of cheap American LNG that could replace Russian energy, Trump’s policies pose tough choices for European leaders. Meanwhile, fears of a looming trade war add to the pressure as Europe struggles to safeguard its economic stability, strategic autonomy, and climate ambitions. Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the Europ...2025-01-2105 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsOver 100 Slovak psychiatrists urge Fico to change or exit politicsSlovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is facing sharp criticism from 155 mental health professionals, who’ve signed an open letter accusing him of authoritarian tendencies, divisive rhetoric, and policies that undermine Slovakia’s position in the EU and NATO. How has the government reacted, and what are the public’s fears?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.Follow us on:LinkedInInstagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.c...2025-01-2004 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsPolish prosecutors ask to lift immunity to charge former PM MorawieckiDescription: Former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki is under fire for his pandemic-era push for a mail-in election that cost millions and broke the rules. In today’s episode of Long Story Short, we unpack why prosecutors want to lift Morawiecki’s parliamentary immunity, what this case means for Poland and Europe’s democracies, and what’s next for the former PM and other key players. Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.2025-01-1704 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsFrance’s no-confidence vote: Bayrou struggles to tackle €53B deficitToday on Long Story Short, we focus on the political drama unfolding in France as Prime Minister François Bayrou faces a no-confidence vote in parliament. With a divided government, mounting public discontent over pension reforms, and wavering Socialist support, Bayrou’s ability to lead hangs in the balance. Will his last-minute concessions be enough to keep his fragile coalition intact? And what would a government collapse mean for France’s future, and the rest of Europe?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Pro...2025-01-1605 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsCeasefire in Gaza: hope or illusion as Europe watchesIn today’s episode of Long Story Short, we look into the potential ceasefire in Gaza and the high-stakes negotiations surrounding the release of Israeli hostages. With over 46,000 Palestinians and 1,200 Israelis killed, the toll of this conflict is staggering. What could this agreement mean for peace, Europe’s role in global diplomacy, and regional stability? Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.Follow us on:LinkedInInstagram Hosted on Ac...2025-01-1504 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEurope’s toxic crisis: Plastics industry lobbying to shield 'forever chemicals’Forever chemicals, the toxic, indestructible substances hiding in our everyday lives are threatening Europe’s environment and public health. From their staggering cleanup costs to the plastics industry’s relentless lobbying to block a ban, this episode unpacks the high stakes of PFAS pollution. Why should Europeans care? Because these chemicals don’t just stay in factories, they seep into our water, soil, and bodies. Tune in to explore what’s being done, what’s standing in the way, and why it’s crucial to act now.Join us on our journey through the events t...2025-01-1404 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsCroatia’s Milanović wins big: EU critics take charge… againZoran Milanović has been re-elected as Croatia’s president in a landslide victory, but what does this mean for Croatia and Europe? Join Evi Kiorri as she unpacks the political tensions, the EU skepticism, and the rising frustrations driving change in the Balkans. From corruption scandals to soaring inflation, we explore what’s next for Milanović, Croatia, and the European Union.Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.Follow us on:2025-01-1304 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsMusk's bizarre livestream with AfD's Weidel, EU's DSA and Martians fantasiesElon Musk had a chaotic livestream with Alice Weidel, co-chair of Germany's far-right AfD party, ahead of Germany's 2025 election. From awkward moments to bizarre claims about Martian saviours and historical blunders, Musk's endorsement of Weidel raises serious questions about tech influence on European politics and had the opposite effects of boosting AfD.The conversation also highlights potential violations of the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which could set a troubling precedent for social media's role in shaping elections.Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the Eu...2025-01-1004 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsCecilia Sala freed, Meloni’s diplomatic triumphItalian journalist Cecilia Sala has returned home being arrested in Tehran on December 19, Sala’s harrowing 3-week detention in the notorious Evin prison took a surprising turn with her release on January 8. With the involvement of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who personally took charge of the diplomatic negotiations, the case turned into a symbolic victory for both Italy and Meloni herself.Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co production with Sphera Network.Follow us on...2025-01-0904 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsWhat makes Greenland so important for Trump and for Europe?Greenland, a remote island with a population of just 60,000, has become the unexpected focus of a global power struggle. U.S. President Donald Trump’s audacious idea to buy the territory has stirred debates about sovereignty and self-determination, while exposing the Arctic as a strategic chessboard for world powers. Why does this matter to Europeans? Greenland holds 25 of the 34 critical raw materials essential for Europe’s green transition, making it a linchpin in the fight against climate change.Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the Euro...2025-01-0804 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsAustria’s far-right politics, Musk’s meddling, and the EU’s silenceAustria is on the brink of a historic political shift as the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) positions itself to lead the government. Meanwhile, Elon Musk stirs controversy in Germany by using his platform to amplify the far-right AfD ahead of snap elections, raising serious concerns about the influence of Big Tech on European democracy. For now all eyes are on Brussels to enforce the DSA, but why the lack of decisive action?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the European Union.Production: By Europod, in co...2025-01-0704 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsUkraine war deepens EU’s energy crisisOn our very first episode of the Long Story Short, we dive into the critical crossroads of 2025, where Ukraine's fight for freedom meets Europe’s energy uncertainty. In this episode, we unpack the latest updates from Ukraine, the abrupt halt of Russian gas via Ukraine, and what it all means for EU citizens facing rising energy costs and geopolitical tensions. What’s at stake for Europe, security, and industry as the war continues? And could this be the year Ukraine's war finally ends?Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and the...2025-01-0604 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsLong Story Short - TrailerLong Story Short is Europod's new daily podcast.Host Evi Kiorri breaks down one news story shaping Europe at a time, in just under five minutes, cutting through the noise and bringing you the facts, the context, and what it all means. Whether you’re on your lunch break, grabbing a coffee, or just catching your breath, Long Story Short is your new go-to for staying in the know.Starting January 6th 2025, episodes of Long Story Short will drop by 12.30 PM CET, from Monday to Friday.Long Story Short is pr...2024-12-1900 min
Europod & Sphera • News[REUPLOAD] The future is now: Closing the age gap in climate action movementIn this episode of Europe Talks Back we bring to you the story of Karen from France, who, despite retiring, decided to join Greenpeace. Karen explains why age should not be a barrier to making a difference in societal struggles. As a relatively older activist, Karen also emphasizes the importance of educating people of all ages about the perils of climate change and working together in unity to create a sustainable future. This inspiring story challenges the stereotype that climate activism is only for the young. We can't wait for the younger generations to be i...2024-12-1022 min
Europod & Sphera • News[REUPLOAD] From Ghost Towns to Vibrant Communities: The Musicians ex Machina experienceIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, we travel to Greece, where renowned musician Dimitris Mystakidis ignites deserted Greek villages with the power of music, as he resolutely strives to bring life and community back to these abandoned spaces, despite political interference and the challenges of revitalisation. Reporting for this episode by Jenny Tsiropoulou.Music cannot fix the structural issues that have made them empty in the first place. But what it can do is help shape people who could go on to change the world. - Dimitris MystakidisAbout Jenny...2024-12-0322 min
Europod & Sphera • News[REUPLOAD] Social media and mental healthIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, Juli Simond tells the story of Pit-Roig Vinyals, a German language teacher based in Barcelona, Spain. Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at age 23, Pit-Roig turned her personal battles into a mission, emphasising on mental health stigma dismantlement and open conversations that were once considered taboo. With an experience of over eight years in managing her conditions, Pit-Roig provides valuable insight into how one's mental health can be critically affected by frequent social media usage. Reporting on the ground by Pablo Jiménez Arandia.2024-10-1526 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsTakeaways from the EU electionsIn this episode we'll be commenting on the results of the EU elections and try to make sense of the results and what this could mean for our future and rights. We'll speak with Quentin Aries, a journalist based in Brussels and the editor of Sphera Network, the first network of independent media in Europe to reinvent the media space and paint a new picture of the continent through impactful, unbiased, raw and authentic stories.Tune into episode 11 now!Join us on our journey through the events that shape the European continent and...2024-06-1321 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsA new generation of student-led protestsIn today’s episode we'll look into the new generation of student, university and worker led protests that are shaping up across Europe, from France to Poland. And we’ll also discuss how this trend relates to a global narrative change around the future of work.We'll hear from journalists Samuele Maccolini from the Italian outlet VD News and Maciej Domagała, from the Polish outlet Krytyka Polityczna. We met with them in Budapest, during a live show produced by the Sphera Network project to discuss this topic.This is the first episode of a...2024-05-1615 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsWestern feminism has a whiteness problemWhite feminism is a self-proclaimed feminism shaped by the priorities of white, upper-middle-class, cisgender women. It assumes that all women experience misogyny in the same way - but it’s not.” What’s the point of breaking the glass ceiling if other women are left to pick up the pieces?Join our host of Europe Talks Back season 3, Gail Rego as she has a conversation with our guest French activist, feminist, journalist, filmmaker and writer Rokhaya Diallo. Tune into episode 3 nowThis series is produced in partnership with Sphera Network.Join us...2024-03-1925 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBest Podcast of the Year : Disability in Times of WarOnce the Russian invasion of Ukraine started, people with disabilities suffered tremendously. And amid the panic and chaos that followed the invasion, many were unable to evacuate from their homes. This left people trapped in the crossfire without access to bomb shelters. In the first episode of the second season of Europe Talks Back, host Juli Simond tells the story of Tetyana Herasymova, who is one of the approximately 2.7 million Ukrainians with disabilities. Tanya is one of those who managed to flee. Ever since, she’s been helping fellow Ukrainians with disabilities stuck near the frontlines of the war in...2023-12-3121 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsDieselgate Reloaded - Part 2In this episode of Europe Talks Back, Gail Rego continues to dig into the investigation by Stefano Valentino published by the pan-European online media, Voxeurop, on how the European car industry has lobbied EU institutions to weaken Euro Seven, the next European Emission Standard. Over the years, the EU has adopted progressively more stringent regulations on car emissions, but establishing this new standard is proving to be more difficult than in the past.This story is part of an investigation conducted with Voxeurop and supported by the Journalismfund Europe, the European Excellence E...2023-12-1514 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsDieselgate Reloaded - Part 1In this episode of Europe Talks Back, Gail Rego takes us inside the investigation by Stefano Valentino published by the pan-European online media, Voxeurop, on how the European car industry has lobbied EU institutions to weaken Euro Seven, the next European Emission Standard. Over the years, the EU has adopted progressively more stringent regulations on car emissions, but establishing this new standard is proving to be more difficult than in the past.This story is part of an investigation conducted with Voxeurop and supported by the Journalismfund Europe, the European Excellence Exchange i...2023-11-2916 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsEurope’s energy policies fire up Estonia’s woodland warriorsIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, Gail Rego tells the story of Liina Steinberg and her fight against the Estonian booming biomass industry. In the decades since independence from the Soviet Union, Estonia started relaxing its forest management practices, and large-scale logging has boomed to meet the demand for renewable energy and has become one of the EU’s largest exporters of wood pellets. As Liina saw the forests around her shrinking, she took her fight from the streets to the courts. With the NGO she founded in 2020 - Save the Estonian Forest - she...2023-11-1516 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsPoland: The border of humanityIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, Gail Rego tells the story of Elmi, a 60-year-old man who emigrated to Poland twenty-seven years ago from Somalia. Elmi started a new life in Poland's capital Warsaw and in 2007 established the Foundation “Good Start” in order to help newly arrived migrants with navigating the complex asylum process, translating official documents, arranging hospital visits, and organising Polish language courses. Almost three decades after arriving in Warsaw, he had to deal with the ruling Law and Justice Party's hardline on immigration. Still, the opposition's victory in the October elections is gi...2023-11-0120 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsHow is podcasting transforming the European Media landscape? - Part 2This special episode of Europe Talks Back is the second part of the recording of a panel debate held on the 12th of October at Bozar in Brussels, moderated by Alexander Damiano Ricci and organized by Sphera Media Lab and Arty Farty. Today, Alexander Damiano Ricci and his guests discuss how podcasts have increased the quality of information in the European media landscape and how to save them from misinformation. Also in the show, an interesting discussion between the panelist and the audience on the podcasting landscape. The guests are: A...2023-10-2520 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsHow is podcasting transforming the European Media landscape? - Part 1In this special episode of Europe Talks Back, Alexander Damiano Ricci and his guests discuss how podcasts incorporate alternative and independent points of view and how they improve the quality of the information in the European media landscape, but also how podcasting has changed the professional mindset of the panelists. Today’s episode is the first part of the recording of a panel debate held on the 12th of October at Bozar in Brussel, moderated by Alexander Damiano Ricci and organized by Sphera Media Lab and Arty Farty. The guests are:2023-10-1824 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of “Porto, please don't stop the music" Producer Alexander Damiano Ricci invites April Clare Welsh to discuss her work as a reporter and scriptwriter for the previous podcast episode “Porto, please don’t stop the music”. April Clare Welsh recalls how she got in touch with an underground music community and hub in Porto, called STOP. She also talks about the systemic deficiencies of public funding in the cultural sector in Portugal, highlighting differences and similarities between cultural sector in Portugal and in the UK. About April Clare Welsh April Clare Welsh is a freelance journalist based in Port...2023-10-1115 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsPorto, please don’t stop the musicIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, Juli Simond tells the story of Bruno Costa, a Porto-based musician who has become the president of a musicians, artists, and shopkeepers association called Alma Stop. The association was set up to protect the interests of the people who use the spaces at CC Stop -or just Stop - a four-story shopping centre that has been sustaining Porto’s underground music scene for more than 20 years and is home to an estimated 500 musicians. Today, the continued existence of the Stop community is under threat from the local authorities but...2023-10-0417 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of “Being trans in the Catholic Church" & A chat with Maria DiosProducer Alexander Damiano Ricci invites Katie Jickling to discuss her work as a reporter and scriptwriter for a previous podcast episode, “Being trans in the Catholic Church”. The conversation explores the relationship between the Church and LGBTQ people, the polarization of such issue in politics, and examines what are the costs and challenges of activism at a personal level. Also in the show, an interview with María Dios, producer of Europe Talks Back. About Katie Jickling Katie Jickling is a journalist reporting from Belgium but she comes or...2023-09-2724 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBeing trans in the Catholic ChurchIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, Juli Simond tells the story of Phyla Kupferschmidt, a 36-year-old trans woman originally from Canada but now living in Leuven, Belgium. As a transgender and Catholic person, Phyla has had a rough relationship with the Church and the congregation she is part of, but she has managed to bridge cultural divides and challenge stereotypes about gender and faith through activism. After the first awakenings of her sense of womanhood and the experience of the seminary in Canada she attended when she was still a man, Phyla has come o...2023-09-2020 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of “Social media and mental health: How being permanently on Twitter can lead to self-destruction”Producer Maria Dios invites journalist Pablo Jiménez Arandia to discuss his work as a reporter and scriptwriter for the previous episode, “Social media and mental health: How being permanently on Twitter can lead to self-destruction”. The conversation explores how platforms like Twitter and TikTok can foster unrealistic expectations and negatively impact self-esteem and self-perception, and the responsibility journalists and media companies have in striking a balance in the content they produce. About Pablo Jiménez Arandia. Pablo Jiménez Arandia is a journalist based in Barcelona. Through compelling storytelling and intimate...2023-09-1313 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsSocial media and mental health: How being permanently on Twitter can lead to self-destructionIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, Juli Simond tells the story of Pit-Roig Vinyals, a German language teacher based in Barcelona, Spain. Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at age 23, Pit-Roig turned her personal battles into a mission, emphasising on mental health stigma dismantlement and open conversations that were once considered taboo. With an experience of over eight years in managing her conditions, Pit-Roig provides valuable insight into how one's mental health can be critically affected by frequent social media usage. Reporting on the ground by Pablo Jiménez Arandia.2023-09-0626 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of "Post-separation abuse in the UK: The fight for freedom"Producer María Dios invites journalist Sophie Smith to discuss her work as a reporter and scriptwriter for a previous podcast episode, "Post-separation abuse in the UK: The fight for freedom". The conversation explores the dynamics of domestic and post-separation abuse in the UK. Sophie Smith delves into the hurdles that survivors confront within the family court system, unveiling a complex system fraught with challenges.About Sophie SmithSophie Smith is a Belgian-British freelance journalist based in London, England. She has written for national outlets including the Observer and P...2023-08-3016 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsPost-separation abuse in the UK: The fight for freedomIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, Juli Simond tells the story of Charlotte, a resilient mother who battles through the post-separation abuse she endured for over a decade in the UK. Trapped in an abusive relationship, she fought for her newborn child's safety with every ounce of strength she had. But just as she thought she had escaped her abuser's clutches, she stumbled upon a cruel truth. The system that was supposed to protect her failed to recognize her harrowing journey. Little did she know, the unforgiving labyrinth of the UK's legal system held yet another unexpected twist...2023-08-2318 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of "Italy's shrinking lakes: the case of Como"Producer María Dios invites Italian journalist Maria Colonna to discuss her work as a reporter and scriptwriter for a previous podcast episode, "Italy's shrinking lakes: the case of Como". The conversation explores the water crisis at the heart of Italy's climate emergency. Maria Colonna uncovers the hidden impact of climate change on picturesque Lake Como as she highlights the need to raise awareness of the urgent need for action to protect this fragile ecosystem.Climate change is not just a topic we hear about, it's something you experience and witness with your own eyes...2023-08-1620 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsItaly's shrinking lakes: the case of ComoIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, Juli Simond tells the story of Filippo, a geologist and environmental guide, living in Como. Filippo discusses the impact of drought on Lake Como's ecosystem. He shares his concerns about the changing rainfall patterns and how they have led to fluctuating water levels, landslides, and floods. These extreme weather events have a significant impact on not only the infrastructure but also on the lake's delicate ecosystem. Filippo emphasizes the importance of changing the negative perception of Lake Como and highlighting the thriving underwater world that exists beneath its surface. He and his...2023-08-0918 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of "From Ghost Towns to Vibrant Communities: The Musicians ex Machina experience""Producer María Dios invites Greek journalist Jenny Tsiropoulou to discuss her work as a reporter and scriptwriter for a previous podcast episode, "From Ghost Towns to Vibrant Communities: The Musicians ex Machina experience". The conversation centers around a unique music festival held in abandoned villages in Greece. Jenny explains that she chose to focus on Dimitris Mistakivis, a professional musician and social activist, as the main character for the music festival episode. However, concerns about infrastructure, health services, and social isolation in rural areas are raised. Jenny highlights the lack of support from local government for cultural initiatives.2023-08-0216 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsFrom Ghost Towns to Vibrant Communities: The Musicians ex Machina experienceIn this episode of Europe Talks Back, we travel to Greece, where renowned musician Dimitris Mystakidis ignites deserted Greek villages with the power of music, as he resolutely strives to bring life and community back to these abandoned spaces, despite political interference and the challenges of revitalisation. Reporting for this episode by Jenny Tsiropoulou.Music cannot fix the structural issues that have made them empty in the first place. But what it can do is help shape people who could go on to change the world. - Dimitris MystakidisAbout Jenny...2023-07-2622 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of "Youth Homelessness: How to survive the streets when you are under 25"Producer María Dios interviews Spanish journalist Pablo Jiménez Arandia. Pablo was Europe Talks Back's reporter on the ground for the previous episode, "Youth Homelessness: How to survive the streets when you are under 25". In this podcast, Pablo shines a spotlight on the housing crisis in Europe through the captivating story of Mohammed, a young man who experienced homelessness in Barcelona. Young people that end up in the streets are growing all around Europe. Every day and every week that they spend in the streets, without shelter, without support, without help, will have lasting co...2023-07-1914 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsYouth Homelessness: How to survive the streets when you are under 25In this episode of Europe Talks Back host Juli Simond tells the story of Mohammed Bouzghaia, a resilient young man who has faced some of life's most formidable challenges head-on. Born and raised in Morocco, Mohammed chose to set sail for Spain, a trip riddled with adversity, with the hope of a brighter future. He found himself surviving alone on the streets of Barcelona where he faced language barriers and homelessness. His determination, coupled with his optimistic spirit, have allowed him to persevere. Mohammed’s life ordeal provides invaluable insights into the ongoing issue of youth homelessness in Europe....2023-07-1221 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of "The future is now: Closing the age gap in climate action movement"Producer María Dios interviews Italian journalist Irene Fodaro. Irene was Europe Talks Back's reporter on the ground for the previous episode, "The future is now: Closing the age gap in climate action movement". In this podcast Irene delves into the captivating world of climate activism in France, exposing the generation gap and the inspiring fight of a 70-year-old activist facing tear gas, to bridge the divide and unite generations in the urgent battle against climate change.We should really develop and strengthen intergenerational ties and dialogue and solidarity, because no generation is winning on t...2023-07-0516 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsThe future is now: Closing the age gap in climate action movementIn this episode of Europe Talks Back we bring to you the story of Karen from France, who, despite retiring, decided to join Greenpeace. Karen explains why age should not be a barrier to making a difference in societal struggles. As a relatively older activist, Karen also emphasizes the importance of educating people of all ages about the perils of climate change and working together in unity to create a sustainable future. This inspiring story challenges the stereotype that climate activism is only for the young. We can't wait for the younger generations to be i...2023-06-2822 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of "What Color is Dutch? Lifelines Twisted by Bias"German journalist Sarah Tekath exposes the ironies of progress and struggle in the Netherlands, discussing the challenges faced by people of color. Sarah is the reporter and scriptwriter behind Europe Talks Back's previous episode, What Color is Dutch? Lifelines twisted by bias. In that episode, Sarah highlighted Marisella de Cuba's activism against racism and colonial history.About Sarah TekathSarah Tekath is an experienced freelance journalist and foreign correspondent who has made Amsterdam her base since 2014. Specializing in social issues, particularly women's rights, Sarah has collaborated with multiple German...2023-06-2112 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsWhat Color is Dutch? Lifelines Twisted by BiasAlthough the Netherlands is internationally seen as a progressive country, the reality that many ethnic groups experience daily looks very different from the inside. In fact, over the past few decades, an ongoing battle against institutional racism has been taking place in the country. In this episode of Europe Talks Back, host Juli Simond tells the story of Marisella de Cuba, who was born on Aruba, a Caribbean island facing the coast of Venezuela that is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. When Marisella moved to the Netherlands’ mainland at a young age, she found herself confronting a soci...2023-06-1419 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsBehind the scenes of "Disability in Times of War", with Anna RomandashDisability representation is crucial for creating an inclusive society that values diversity and human rights. Disability representation in media and government can help break down social barriers, promote understanding and empathy, and empower disabled individuals to fully participate in society. Guest speaker Anna Romandash - also reporter and scriptwriter of ep1 of Europe Talks Back (Disability in Times of War) - shares why disability representation is essential and how journalists can improve their coverage of disability issues.About Anna RomandashAnna Romandash is a passionate and skilled Ukrainian journalist...2023-06-0716 min
Europod & Sphera • NewsDisability in Times of WarOnce the Russian invasion of Ukraine started, people with disabilities suffered tremendously. And amid the panic and chaos that followed the invasion, many were unable to evacuate from their homes. This left people trapped in the crossfire without access to bomb shelters. In the first episode of the second season of Europe Talks Back, host Juli Simond tells the story of Tetyana Herasymova, who is one of the approximately 2.7 million Ukrainians with disabilities. Tanya is one of those who managed to flee. Ever since, she’s been helping fellow Ukrainians with disabilities stuck near the frontlines of the war in...2023-05-3121 min