The Zeitgeist

Recent Episodes

Episode 139: The German-Polish Relationship amid Changing European Security Challenges

Posted January 14, 2026 • 00:35:13

The European security landscape is shifting. The United States is pressuring Europe to manage the defense of its region, and many NATO allies have growing...

Episode 138: The Trump Administration, the AfD, and German Foreign Policy

Posted December 17, 2025 • 00:31:24

Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) has been known for its foreign policy embrace of Russia and China, but in recent months, the party has turned...

Episode 137: Friedrich Merz: Foreign Policy Chancellor

Posted December 4, 2025 • 00:35:54

Chancellor Merz has received praise internationally for many German foreign policy and defense initiatives in 2025: suspending the “debt brake”...

Episode 136: The Role of Communities in Times of Crisis

Posted November 20, 2025 • 00:28:26

In Washington, DC, LGBTQ+ organizations enhance the city’s cultural life, provide services, and represent the community’s political interests. At...

Episode 135: Reenergizing the German Economy

Posted November 12, 2025 • 00:32:48

The German economy is stagnating, and Chancellor Friedrich Merz has promised an autumn of reforms. But are the government’s policies enough to restore...