Episodes

  • The New Path to Peace? Ukraine, Gaza, & The Resurgence of ISIS

    The New Path to Peace? Ukraine, Gaza, & The Resurgence of ISIS
    Aug 25 2025
    This week, we break down the latest diplomatic efforts in the war in Ukraine, the dangerous new tactics complicating aid efforts in Gaza, and the brutal resurgence of ISIS on the African continent. Is a path to peace finally on the table, and what are the new global threats we need to be watching?

    Episode Highlights
    • Ukraine Diplomacy: We discuss the new framework for a long-term peace deal in Ukraine, including a shift in Russia's position on security guarantees and the potential for a direct meeting between Putin and Zelensky.

    • Gaza's Humanitarian Crisis: We explore the dangerous new tactic of militants impersonating aid workers, the ongoing stalemate in ceasefire negotiations, and the internal political pressures facing Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

    • ISIS Resurgence: We analyze the brutal comeback of ISIS in Africa, the strategic use of their newsletter Al-Naba to broadcast their intentions, and the chilling, religiously motivated violence targeting Christian communities.


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    46 mins
  • New Cold Wars? A look at Global Power Plays from Alaska to the Middle East

    New Cold Wars? A look at Global Power Plays from Alaska to the Middle East
    Aug 11 2025
    This week we break down a whirlwind of global events, from a high-stakes summit in Alaska to a dangerous new phase in the Middle East. We analyze the motivations behind the Trump-Putin meeting and the international backlash to Israel's plan for Gaza City, and look at the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Mexico over drug cartels.

    Episode Highlights
    • The Trump-Putin Summit: We explore the upcoming meeting between President Trump and President Putin in Alaska, which is intended to discuss the future of the war in Ukraine. We look into why this bilateral meeting has sparked concern and confusion, especially regarding Ukraine's exclusion from the initial talks, and what a potential territorial exchange might mean for the region.

    • Gaza's Escalation & Global Backlash: We dive into the international response to Israel's plan to take control of Gaza City, including strong rebukes from the United Nations and key allies like Germany, who has halted arms exports to Israel. We also discuss the significant policy divergence between the U.S. and the UK on the issue of a Palestinian state.




    • The U.S. vs. Mexican Cartels: We explain the U.S. administration's official designation of drug cartels as "global terrorist organizations" and a new directive to use military force against them. We also examine the tension this creates with Mexico, whose president has stated that U.S. military will not be entering Mexican territory.


    • China-Russia Joint Naval Drills: We break down the recent joint naval exercises between China and Russia in the Sea of Japan, which simulated attacks on adversarial submarines and amphibious ships. We discuss the significance of these drills as a demonstration of their growing "no-limits" strategic partnership and a response to U.S. military presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

    Are you ready to understand the forces shaping tomorrow's headlines? Follow "This Week Explained" wherever you listen to podcasts and hit subscribe to get alerted to new episodes! If you enjoyed this deep dive, please leave a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify – it truly helps others discover the show. You can also engage with us by leaving comments on Spotify. Discover more great podcasts from the Leon Media Network at leonmedianetwork.com, and follow us on social media @thisweekexplained.
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    This Week Explained is presented by our new friends over at Fresh Roasted Coffee & Positively Tea. Have a cup of the best tasting coffee that gets Tiana & Kervin through breaking down the latest geopolitics news! Visit our link - https://lddy.no/1lc0u & use our promo code THISWEEK for 20% off your first purchase!
    Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Follow us @thisweekexplained for more.
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    Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed on the podcast 'This Week Explained' are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity. The information provided on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or a substitute for independent research and analysis. Each individual listener should research and identify their own opinions based on facts and logic before making any decisions based on the information provided on the podcast. The podcast hosts and guests are not responsible for any actions taken by individuals based on the information provided on the podcast.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-explained--6199515/support.
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    47 mins
  • Ukraine, Gaza & Asia's New Flashpoint: A World in Flux

    Ukraine, Gaza & Asia's New Flashpoint: A World in Flux
    Jul 28 2025
    This week, we unpack the latest diplomatic and military developments in Ukraine and Gaza, alongside a new and escalating conflict in the South China Sea. Are these regional flashes leading to a broader global recalibration?


    Episode Highlights:
    • Ukraine's Diplomatic Dance: High-level meetings are on the horizon, with US President Trump, British Prime Minister Starmer, and EU Commission President von der Leyen discussing an end to the war, while the US pressures China to halt support for Russia's aggression.

    • Gaza's Humanitarian Catastrophe: Ceasefire negotiations have stalled, leading to a grim humanitarian crisis with increasing starvation deaths, as Israel signals a major military campaign to dismantle Hamas.

    • Thailand-Cambodia Border Eruption: A century-old territorial dispute has exploded into heavy fighting, displacing nearly 200,000 people and testing alliances amidst accusations of civilian targeting and the use of banned munitions.

    • Geopolitical Chessboard: The Southeast Asian conflict highlights the strategic competition between the US and China, with Beijing positioning itself as a mediator and the US balancing its alliances while deterring conflict over Taiwan.
    Are you ready to understand the forces shaping tomorrow's headlines? Follow "This Week Explained" wherever you listen to podcasts and hit subscribe to get alerted to new episodes! If you enjoyed this deep dive, please leave a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify – it truly helps others discover the show. You can also engage with us by leaving comments on Spotify. Discover more great podcasts from the Leon Media Network at leonmedianetwork.com, and follow us on social media @thisweekexplained.
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    This Week Explained is presented by our new friends over at Fresh Roasted Coffee & Positively Tea. Have a cup of the best tasting coffee that gets Tiana & Kervin through breaking down the latest geopolitics news! Visit our link - https://lddy.no/1lc0u & use our promo code THISWEEK for 20% off your first purchase!
    Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Follow us @thisweekexplained for more.
    -------------
    Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed on the podcast 'This Week Explained' are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity. The information provided on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or a substitute for independent research and analysis. Each individual listener should research and identify their own opinions based on facts and logic before making any decisions based on the information provided on the podcast. The podcast hosts and guests are not responsible for any actions taken by individuals based on the information provided on the podcast.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-explained--6199515/support.
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    42 mins
  • Beyond the Headlines: Can Peace Hold in Ukraine, Gaza, Syria?

    Beyond the Headlines: Can Peace Hold in Ukraine, Gaza, Syria?
    Jul 21 2025
    This week, we dive into the intensifying conflicts in Ukraine, the deepening humanitarian crisis and stalled truce talks in Gaza, and the alarming escalation of sectarian violence in Syria. We analyze the complex dynamics, international responses, and what these developments mean for global stability.



    Episode Highlights:
    • Ukraine War Update: Explore the increased reliance on drone warfare, the effectiveness of the latest EU sanctions, the crucial role of continued military aid, and the viability of a potential US-Ukraine drone deal.



    • Gaza Ceasefire Hurdles: Understand the complexities of the proposed 60-day truce, the trust issues between Israel and Hamas, and the devastating impact of the humanitarian crisis on negotiations.



    • Syria's Sectarian Surge: Examine the fresh wave of violence in Suweida between Druze militias and Sunni Bedouin fighters, Israel's military intervention, and the international reactions to the escalating situation.


    • Iran's Stance & Regional Volatility: Discuss Iran's response to US strikes on its nuclear facilities and how this, combined with other conflicts, contributes to increased regional instability and the risk of wider confrontations.

    • The "Who Stops First" Dilemma: Delve into the pervasive issue of mistrust and unfulfilled promises that hinders de-escalation in both the Gaza and Syrian conflicts.
    Are you ready to understand the forces shaping tomorrow's headlines? Follow "This Week Explained" wherever you listen to podcasts and hit subscribe to get alerted to new episodes! If you enjoyed this deep dive, please leave a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify – it truly helps others discover the show. You can also engage with us by leaving comments on Spotify. Discover more great podcasts from the Leon Media Network at leonmedianetwork.com, and follow us on social media @thisweekexplained.
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    This Week Explained is presented by our new friends over at Fresh Roasted Coffee & Positively Tea. Have a cup of the best tasting coffee that gets Tiana & Kervin through breaking down the latest geopolitics news! Visit our link - https://lddy.no/1lc0u & use our promo code THISWEEK for 20% off your first purchase!
    Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Follow us @thisweekexplained for more.
    -------------
    Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed on the podcast 'This Week Explained' are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity. The information provided on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or a substitute for independent research and analysis. Each individual listener should research and identify their own opinions based on facts and logic before making any decisions based on the information provided on the podcast. The podcast hosts and guests are not responsible for any actions taken by individuals based on the information provided on the podcast.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-explained--6199515/support.
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    48 mins
  • US-Iran Crisis: Trump's Ultimatum & Gaza's Stalemate

    US-Iran Crisis: Trump's Ultimatum & Gaza's Stalemate
    Jul 14 2025
    This week, we unravel the explosive escalation between the U.S. and Iran, marked by blistering rhetoric and a direct challenge from President Trump. We also delve into the intractable ceasefire negotiations in Gaza and an unorthodox peace proposal from the West Bank.

    Episode Highlights:
    • The US resumes military aid to Ukraine, including Patriot systems via NATO, amidst escalating Russian aerial attacks and a three-year high in civilian casualties.




    • Israeli PM Netanyahu's office issues and retracts a forceful statement defending his Gaza war strategy and asserting military successes against Hamas and Iranian threats.



    • US President Trump reportedly does not object to a potential Israeli strike on Iran, favoring the threat of force as leverage for a diplomatic solution to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

    • Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain elusive due to fundamental disagreements on a permanent ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal, and the elimination of Hamas's capabilities.


    • An unorthodox "Emirate of Hebron" peace proposal from West Bank sheikhs, offering full recognition of Israel and a break from the Palestinian Authority, faces widespread skepticism and backlash.




    • Tensions between the U.S. and Iran escalate rapidly following Iran's Supreme Leader's threats and President Trump's direct, forceful counter-rhetoric and claims regarding past strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.


    Are you ready to understand the forces shaping tomorrow's headlines? Follow "This Week Explained" wherever you listen to podcasts and hit subscribe to get alerted to new episodes! If you enjoyed this deep dive, please leave a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify – it truly helps others discover the show. You can also engage with us by leaving comments on Spotify. Discover more great podcasts from the Leon Media Network at leonmedianetwork.com, and follow us on social media @thisweekexplained.
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    This is an advertisement from our new friends over at BetterHelp. Helping you build the mental resilience to navigate a complex world! Talk it out, with BetterHelp! Visit our link - BetterHelp.com/THISWEEK. Using this link acts as your promo code THISWEEK for 10% off your first month!
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    This Week Explained is presented by our new friends over at Fresh Roasted Coffee & Positively Tea. Have a cup of the best tasting coffee that gets Tiana & Kervin through breaking down the latest geopolitics news! Visit our link - https://lddy.no/1lc0u & use our promo code THISWEEK for 20% off your first purchase!
    Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Follow us @thisweekexplained for more.
    -------------
    Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed on the podcast 'This Week Explained' are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity. The information provided on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or a substitute for independent research and analysis. Each individual listener should research and identify their own opinions based on facts and logic before making any decisions based on the information provided on the podcast. The podcast hosts and guests are not responsible for any actions taken by individuals based on the information provided on the podcast.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-explained--6199515/support.
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    52 mins
  • US Aid Cuts, Gaza Ceasefire Hopes, & NATO's Future

    US Aid Cuts, Gaza Ceasefire Hopes, & NATO's Future
    Jul 8 2025
    This week, we unravel the critical developments shaping our world, from the concerning pause in US aid to Ukraine and escalating attacks, to the fragile hopes for a ceasefire in Gaza. Plus, we break down the seismic shifts revealed at the recent NATO summit. Are we witnessing a dangerous new phase in global conflicts, or a pivot towards a more self-reliant international order?
    Episode Highlights:
    • Ukraine's Critical Juncture: The immediate impact of the five-month pause in US military aid and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's announced cuts for 2026, and how this emboldens Russia.

    • Gaza Ceasefire Hopes & Hurdles: An in-depth look at Hamas's "positive response" to the US-brokered 60-day ceasefire proposal, Israel's reservations, and the ongoing complexities of achieving lasting peace.

    • NATO's New Era: The landmark commitment to a 5% GDP defense spending target for all allies, the reaffirmation of Article Five, and the "birth of a more European NATO."

    • Diplomatic Theater & Geopolitical Realities: Unconventional moments from the NATO summit, including Trump's golf game with Finnish President Stubb and his "daddy issues" exchange with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, alongside the serious discussions on Russia and Spain's "free ride."
    Are you ready to understand the forces shaping tomorrow's headlines? Follow "This Week Explained" wherever you listen to podcasts and hit subscribe to get alerted to new episodes! If you enjoyed this deep dive, please leave a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify – it truly helps others discover the show. You can also engage with us by leaving comments on Spotify. Discover more great podcasts from the Leon Media Network at leonmedianetwork.com, and follow us on social media @thisweekexplained.
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    This is an advertisement from our new friends over at BetterHelp. Helping you build the mental resilience to navigate a complex world! Talk it out, with BetterHelp! Visit our link - BetterHelp.com/THISWEEK. Using this link acts as your promo code THISWEEK for 10% off your first month!
    -------
    This Week Explained is presented by our new friends over at Fresh Roasted Coffee & Positively Tea. Have a cup of the best tasting coffee that gets Tiana & Kervin through breaking down the latest geopolitics news! Visit our link - https://lddy.no/1lc0u & use our promo code THISWEEK for 20% off your first purchase!
    Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Follow us @thisweekexplained for more.
    -------------
    Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed on the podcast 'This Week Explained' are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity. The information provided on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or a substitute for independent research and analysis. Each individual listener should research and identify their own opinions based on facts and logic before making any decisions based on the information provided on the podcast. The podcast hosts and guests are not responsible for any actions taken by individuals based on the information provided on the podcast.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-explained--6199515/support.
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    49 mins
  • 12-Day War Aftermath: Iran Strikes, Gaza Ceasefire Hopes, & Ukraine's New Front

    12-Day War Aftermath: Iran Strikes, Gaza Ceasefire Hopes, & Ukraine's New Front
    Jun 30 2025
    Tired of feeling overwhelmed by the headlines? Welcome to This Week Explained, your weekly deep dive into the most complex and impactful stories shaping our world. Join Tiana and Kervin as they unpack the critical developments of the week, helping you understand the 'why' behind the global chaos.

    In this week's episode:
    • Ukraine War Intensifies: Kervin analyzes President Putin's declaration that "The whole of Ukraine is ours" and Russia's multi-pronged strategy, including the new northern front in Sumy. Discover how intensified missile and drone attacks are degrading Ukraine's infrastructure and testing its air defenses. We also discuss Ukraine's strategic resilience through domestic arms production.
    • Gaza's Complex Crisis: We shift focus to Gaza, examining the IDF's targeted killing of Hakham Muhammad Issa Al-Issa and the heartbreaking humanitarian situation with persistent reports of civilian casualties near aid distribution sites. Learn about the alarming threats faced by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) and the ongoing diplomatic deadlock in ceasefire negotiations.
    • The 12-Day War Aftermath: Israel & Iran: Dive deep into the recent "12-Day War" between Israel and Iran, including Israel's "Operation Rising Lion" and Iran's "Operation True Promise III". We discuss the significant US involvement with "Operation Midnight Hammer" and President Trump's unique transactional diplomacy, including his controversial claims about saving Khamenei. Kervin explains the "fragile" ceasefire and the effectiveness of the strikes on Iran's nuclear program.
    • A Glimmer of Hope in Africa: Amidst the heavy news, we highlight the significant peace agreement signed this week between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda , a rare moment of genuine diplomacy and a step towards shared prosperity in a region grappling with instability.
    Are you ready to understand the forces shaping tomorrow's headlines? Follow "This Week Explained" wherever you listen to podcasts and hit subscribe to get alerted to new episodes! If you enjoyed this deep dive, please leave a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify – it truly helps others discover the show. You can also engage with us by leaving comments on Spotify. Discover more great podcasts from the Leon Media Network at leonmedianetwork.com, and follow us on social media @thisweekexplained.
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    This is an advertisement from our new friends over at BetterHelp. Helping you build the mental resilience to navigate a complex world! Talk it out, with BetterHelp! Visit our link - BetterHelp.com/THISWEEK. Using this link acts as your promo code THISWEEK for 10% off your first month!
    -------
    This Week Explained is presented by our new friends over at Fresh Roasted Coffee & Positively Tea. Have a cup of the best tasting coffee that gets Tiana & Kervin through breaking down the latest geopolitics news! Visit our link - https://lddy.no/1lc0u & use our promo code THISWEEK for 20% off your first purchase!
    Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Follow us @thisweekexplained for more.
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    Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed on the podcast 'This Week Explained' are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity. The information provided on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or a substitute for independent research and analysis. Each individual listener should research and identify their own opinions based on facts and logic before making any decisions based on the information provided on the podcast. The podcast hosts and guests are not responsible for any actions taken by individuals based on the information provided on the podcast.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-explained--6199515/support.
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • BREAKING: US Strikes Iran | War or Calculated Conflict?

    BREAKING: US Strikes Iran | War or Calculated Conflict?
    Jun 22 2025
    The Middle East is on edge after the United States launched strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, marking a significant escalation in tensions. Is this a precursor to a wider war, or a calculated move to force Iran back to the negotiating table?

    Are you ready to understand the forces shaping tomorrow's headlines? Follow "This Week Explained" wherever you listen to podcasts and hit subscribe to get alerted to new episodes! If you enjoyed this deep dive, please leave a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify – it truly helps others discover the show. You can also engage with us by leaving comments on Spotify. Discover more great podcasts from the Leon Media Network at leonmedianetwork.com, and follow us on social media @thisweekexplained.
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    This is an advertisement from our new friends over at BetterHelp. Helping you build the mental resilience to navigate a complex world! Talk it out, with BetterHelp! Visit our link - BetterHelp.com/THISWEEK. Using this link acts as your promo code THISWEEK for 10% off your first month!
    -------
    This Week Explained is presented by our new friends over at Fresh Roasted Coffee & Positively Tea. Have a cup of the best tasting coffee that gets Tiana & Kervin through breaking down the latest geopolitics news! Visit our link - https://lddy.no/1lc0u & use our promo code THISWEEK for 20% off your first purchase!
    Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network! Follow us @thisweekexplained for more.
    -------------
    Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed on the podcast 'This Week Explained' are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or entity. The information provided on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice or a substitute for independent research and analysis. Each individual listener should research and identify their own opinions based on facts and logic before making any decisions based on the information provided on the podcast. The podcast hosts and guests are not responsible for any actions taken by individuals based on the information provided on the podcast.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/this-week-explained--6199515/support.
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    18 mins