Episodes

  • Citizen Dan: Whose Side Are You On, Mr. Trump?
    Aug 18 2025

    Over Here, Over There's Dan Harris speaks with BBC Radio Wiltshire and Gloucestershire host Graham Rogers again this week regarding the White House EU Summit regarding peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. After a disappointing meeting in Alaska for President Trump, can he rally EU leaders with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who have gathered for an unprecedented meeting at the White House to discuss their response to Russian President Putin's demands for a possible solution to the conflict? The stakes are high on all sides, and the world will see how far the Trump Administration will go in favouring Russia over America's long-standing allies, a position that no other President has taken in US history.

    The conversation focuses on the diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict in Ukraine, particularly the meeting between President Zelenskyy and President Trump, alongside European leaders. The discussion highlights the complexities of foreign policy, the influence of leadership decisions, and the implications of the ongoing war on global relations and resources.

    Takeaways

    • Diplomatic efforts are crucial in halting the conflict in Ukraine.
    • Zelenskyy's visit to the White House is significant for Ukraine's future.
    • Trump's previous meeting with Putin raised concerns about his stance on Russia.
    • European leaders' presence at the White House indicates a united front.
    • Zelenskyy cannot constitutionally give up land without parliamentary approval.
    • The Donbass region is strategically important and rich in minerals.
    • Past agreements with Russia have failed, raising doubts about future guarantees.
    • Trump's desire for a Nobel Peace Prize may influence his decisions.
    • The ongoing war impacts U.S. domestic policies and resources.
    • The outcome of the meeting could redefine U.S. foreign policy.


    Sound Bites

    • "A big day at the White House."
    • "Trump seems easily swayed by Putin."
    • "What is Trump's endgame?"

    Please don't forget to like, subscribe and share the podcast. We'd very much appreciate it. It's available on all major podcast platforms. You can also check out our website www.overhereoverthere.org and support us on Patreon. Thanks!

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    7 mins
  • Citizen Dan: JD Vance's Presidential Bid Begins in the Cotswolds
    Aug 16 2025

    BBC Radio Wiltshire and Gloucestershire host Graham Rogers explores with Dan Harris, political commentator and podcast co-host 'Over Here, Over There', the significance of JD Vance's visit to the Gloucestershire-Wiltshire border. Dan describes JD Vance's background, the role of the Vice President, and Vance's potential future in politics. The discussion highlights Vance's rise in prominence compared to previous vice presidents, his political aspirations, and the implications of his actions on the international stage.

    Takeaways

    • JD Vance is a rising political figure with a military background.
    • He has a legal education from Ohio State and Yale Law.
    • Vance's book 'Hillbilly Elegy' gained him significant recognition.
    • The Vice President's role can be influential, especially in the Senate.
    • Vance's visit to Fairford Air Force base is seen as a strategic move.
    • He is positioning himself for a potential presidential run in 2028.
    • Vance's controversial views align with the MAGA movement.,
    • His international engagements enhance his political profile.
    • The Vice President's visibility is often determined by the President.
    • Vance's popularity exceeds that of many past vice presidents.

    This episode is available on all major podcast platforms (YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. Please don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to the podcasts with good people like yourselves. We'd really appreciate it.

    We're off on our summer break and will begin OHOT Series 4 in September. However, we'll be dropping a few episodes when needed, so stay tuned and make sure you turn on the 🔔 notifications, so you don't miss an episode.

    Sound Bites

    • "Who is JD Vance?"
    • "His rise has been quite amazing."
    • "He's in pole position for the GOP nomination in 2028."


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    8 mins
  • Democracy's New Anthem "10%", by The Pleasure Bombs
    Jul 16 2025

    What if a song could inspire a global movement? Join us for a powerhouse episode of the Over Here, Over There Podcast as we welcome the legendary Pleasure Bombs, the band behind the podcast’s iconic theme, “Increase Democracy By Ten Percent,” for their first in-depth interview in years!

    Discover why “Increase Democracy By Ten Percent” continues to be a bold anthem for freedom and justice, and why it should be the hymn for our generation as democracy faces new challenges across the world.
    Dive into exclusive stories linking the Pleasure Bombs’ music to the fall of the Berlin Wall and moments that changed the world, and also behind-the-scenes connections between the song, the band, and the hosts.

    You can listen to '10%' at the end of the episode, or on Bandcamp here, along with some other great tracks for the Pleasure Bombs' 'Food Plus Sex Equals Nature' album.


    Join the conversation—hit like, comment, share, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes where history meets the present!




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    18 mins
  • The Donmar Warehouse's Recipe for Success
    Jun 13 2025

    Step into the heart of London’s legendary West End Theatre scene with hosts Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler as they sit down with Silvia Melchior from the iconic Donmar Warehouse Theatre! 🎭

    Discover why the West End is hailed as the best theatre scene in the world, and what makes the Donmar Warehouse a totally unique gem—an intimate space where world-class plays and Hollywood A-listers like David Tennant, Adrien Brody, and more light up the stage.

    In this exclusive episode of Over Here, Over There, Silvia Melchior pulls back the curtain on the Donmar’s secrets:

    • How does a small theatre attract global superstars?
    • Why do celebrities choose the Donmar over higher-paying gigs?
    • What challenges does the West End face, and how does the Donmar thrive against the odds?
    • What can theatres worldwide learn from London’s innovative approach?
    • Why is the Donmar Warehouse a role model for the arts and the future of theatre?


    Get inspired by stories from behind the scenes, learn what draws stars to this intimate London stage, and find out why the Donmar Warehouse is the beating heart of the West End. Whether you’re a theatre lover, an aspiring actor, or just curious about the magic of London’s arts scene, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and star power!

    Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more exclusive interviews and deep dives into the world’s most fascinating cultural hotspots!


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    44 mins
  • Democracies' Winning Strategy - Stronger Together
    May 28 2025

    Summary

    In this episode of the Over Here, Over There podcast, hosts Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler discuss President Trump's on-and-off-again 50% tariff on the EU, the reactions from European leaders, and the implications for global trade. They explore the upcoming midterm elections as a critical moment for Trump's presidency and the Democratic Party's need for strong leadership and unity. The conversation also touches on the rise of BRICS nations and the potential challenges they pose to Western democracies, as well as the possibility of another impeachment for Trump. The hosts emphasize the importance of unity and collective action in preserving democracy across borders.

    Subscribe here!


    Takeaways

    • The erratic nature of Trump's administration is the new norm.
    • European leaders reacted strongly to Trump's tariff announcement.
    • The midterm elections will serve as a litmus test for Trump's popularity.
    • Democrats need to present strong leadership to counter Trump.
    • The EU's unity is crucial in facing challenges from the US.
    • BRICS nations are rising as a significant global force.
    • Impeachment could be a possibility if Democrats regain control of the House.
    • Every individual plays a role in the future of democracy.
    • The US should learn from the EU's approach to unity and diversity.
    • Collective action is essential for preserving democratic values.

    Sound Bites

    • "Erratic is the new norm."
    • "Keep calm and carry on."
    • "Europe won't be bullied."
    • "Midterms will be the litmus test."
    • "The US can learn from the EU."
    • "The rise of BRICS is a major shift."
    • "Every single person matters."


    Here's the YouTube video episode.

    Look out for our videos on our OHOT YouTube Channel

    Website: https://overhereoverthere.org/

    Subscribe here!

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    37 mins
  • Crossroads in Italy: New Pope, New Deals
    May 13 2025

    From Bari with Updates: Get ready for a whirlwind tour of global headlines-straight from the sun-soaked streets of Bari, Italy! In this special episode of Over Here, Over There, Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler dive into the historic election of Pope Leo XIV, unpacking the drama, tradition, and global impact of the Vatican’s latest conclave. But that’s not all: they´re also breaking down the latest twists in the US-UK trade deal and what it means for politics, business, and ordinary people on both sides of the Atlantic.

    Join two friends from different worlds as we bridge borders, share local flavor from southern Italy, and offer fresh, informed takes on the stories shaping our world right now. Whether you’re a news junkie, a politics buff, or just curious about how global events connect us all, this episode is your passport to insight and lively debate.

    Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe-tell us what you think about the new pope and the future of transatlantic relations!


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    8 mins
  • I, Claudia: Who is Friedrich Merz?
    May 9 2025

    Who is Friedrich Merz, and why is the world watching Germany’s new chancellor? In this special monologue, Claudia Koestler, co-host of the Over Here, Over There podcast, dives into the dramatic rise, fall, and stunning comeback of Friedrich Merz. Discover his unique biography, from corporate lawyer to CDU leader, his years in political exile, and his return to power at age 69. Claudia unpacks the controversies, the coalition drama, and what Merz’s conservative, transatlantic vision means for Germany, Europe, and the world. Whether you’re a politics buff or just curious about global leadership, this episode brings you the insights and stories behind the headlines. Subscribe for more international perspectives!

    Takeaways

    • Friedrich Merz has a complex political history
    • His rivalry with Angela Merkel shaped his career
    • Merz's return marks a shift in CDU leadership
    • He is perceived as arrogant and divisive
    • His approach to the far-right is controversial
    • Merz's policies may be more confrontational than his predecessor
    • He faces challenges in a fragmented Bundestag
    • Public perception of Merz is mixed and critical
    • His leadership could impact transatlantic relations
    • The future of German politics is uncertain under Merz


    Please see this and other 'Over Here, Over There' episodes at www.overhereoverthere.org. Please don't forget to like, subscribe, and add to the discussion. Thank you!

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    7 mins
  • Trump's Shadow Over Europe
    May 6 2025

    Summary

    Over Here, Over There podcast hosts Claudia Koestler and Dan Harris discuss the current political landscape in Germany and the EU, as Dan was passing through Munich Franz Joseph Flughafen (Airport) enjoy a which also included a delicious alkohol-frei Pilsner beer. On tap was the light of recent tariffs and the shifting dynamics of international relations. Claudia emphasizes the need for Europe to find its own voice and unity in the absence of a reliable US partnership, while also addressing the implications of rising right-wing politics within the EU. Dan, being a multi-national citizen, concludes with reflections on the evolving special relationship between the UK and the US post-Brexit, with Italy and Giorgia Meloni's government getting a special mention.

    Takeaways

    • The German government needs to find its backbone and voice
    • Europe must seek independence and shared values
    • China is forming alliances while the US is less reliable
    • Trust issues in partnerships are becoming more pronounced
    • Multilateralism is challenged by current US politics
    • Europe needs to present a united front for democracy
    • The UK-US special relationship is under scrutiny post-Brexit
    • Right-wing politics are gaining traction in some EU countries
    • Countries are pursuing their own agendas within the EU
    • The future of EU unity depends on overcoming internal divisions
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    9 mins