WAC Houston

What is really happening inside modern Russia—and what does it mean for the future of global security? In this episode, veteran journalist and former CNN Moscow bureau chief Jill Dougherty joins the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston to unpack the power dynamics shaping Vladimir Putin’s Russia and its growing impact on the world stage. Drawing on decades of experience covering the Kremlin, D...

Check out our full upcoming program with Clay Risen! https://wachouston.org/event/red-scare-mccarthyism-today/   The Red Scare and McCarthyism didn’t just define a moment in history — they reshaped American civil liberties, politics, and culture in ways that still resonate today. In this conversation, journalist and author Clay Risen explores how fear of communist infiltration spiraled into nation...

Escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran are reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. In this episode of *The Greater Loop* from the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, host Maryanne Maldonado sits down with Middle East expert Mona Yacoubian to unpack the rapidly evolving crisis and what it could mean for regional stability and global security. The conv...

What does America stand for in a moment of global uncertainty? And how should we understand the nation’s political divisions in the context of its history?   In this episode of The Greater Loop, the World Affairs Council of Greater Houstonbrings the Pulitzer Prize–winning historian and bestselling author Jon Meacham to explore the enduring story of the American experiment.   Drawing from his book,...

What really determines success in hostage negotiations? It’s not just intelligence briefings or strict protocols — it’s trust, relationships, and human instinct. In this powerful conversation, Roger D. Carstens, former U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, shares a rare behind-the-scenes look at high-stakes international hostage diplomacy. Drawing from cases involving Brittney Grine...

This episode welcomed Sean Theriault, Distinguished Teaching Professor of Government at the University of Texas at Austin, for a compelling discussion on the modern papacy and its growing influence in global affairs. In a time of geopolitical tension and social polarization, today’s popes must adapt their leadership to meet rapidly changing global challenges. Professor Theriault examined how Pope...

In this program Podcast, renowned Latin American energy expert Francisco J. Monaldi, Ph. D., examines the dramatic political shift in Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro and the uncertainties surrounding the country’s transition. Monaldi provides a clear, grounded assessment of what comes next — not only politically, but economically. With Venezuela holding the largest proven oil res...

Africa is entering a period of profound political transformation. With the world’s youngest population, rapid urbanization, and unprecedented digital connectivity, the continent is poised for increased political volatility, experimentation, and change. In this timely conversation, Ambassador Michelle D. Gavin — Senior Fellow for Africa at the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. Ambassador...

Women are not just a nice addition; they are essential to shaping the future of energy. Discover how the Houston chapter of the Women's Energy Network is fueling a global movement that empowers women to lead in the energy industry’s most critical moments. In this episode, we go beyond the typical talk about energy and diversity to reveal concrete strategies for women striving for leadership in a r...

Discover how Houston cemented its reputation as Space City and why it remains the epicenter of aerospace innovation. In this episode, Megan Ortiz from Axiom Space reveals the bold next steps shaping our future in orbit — from the launch of the next-generation space station to the future of spacesuits designed for lunar missions. You'll uncover how international collaboration, from Italy to Saudi A...

In this episode of The Greater Loop, we sit down with Francisco J. Monaldi — one of the world’s leading experts on Latin American energy and oil policy — to unpack the seismic political changes in Venezuela and what they mean for the global oil market. Following the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro and the rise of interim leader Delcy Rodríguez, we analyze investor confidence, sanctions, institution...

Once seen as a force for peace and prosperity, globalization promised to make nations more connected, economies more efficient, and the world more stable. But the global order built on open markets and interdependence has begun to unravel, revealing the risks of relying on fragile supply chains, deepening inequality, and fueling geopolitical rivalry. Join David J. Lynch, senior writer on global ec...

Join us on The Greater Loop as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Jake Mossawir, CEO of the Bilingual Education Institute. Discover how this Houston-based institute is transforming language education for international students and refugees, offering a unique blend of language and vocational training. Learn about their innovative programs, community impact, and future plans to expand langu...

As the vicious, destructive wars in Ukraine and the Middle East rage on—and US policymakers debate continuing military support in both regions—it is worth considering America’s own relationship with war in the twenty-first century. What has driven our connections to war, not just from a policy perspective, but from a cultural one as well? Why do we assume war will deliver on its promise to solve n...

Houston is one of the most globally connected cities in the United States, and at the heart of that global network are the women diplomats who represent their countries here. Join us for a special lunch program and panel discussion featuring the Subcommittee of Women Diplomats of the Consular Corps of Houston, a group dedicated to fostering international collaboration, elevating women’s leadership...

This Veteran’s Day, join us for a powerful conversation with retired Green Beret Scott Mann and representatives of Badger Six, an organization dedicated to rescuing Afghan allies left behind after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Shannon Spann DeBruyn, lawyer, former CIA officer, and widow of Mike Spann. David Tyson, retired CIA operations officer, linguist, and recipient of the CIA’s Disting...

In this episode Jorge Franz, Senior Vice President of Tourism and Industries at Houston First, discovers how Houston First promotes the city as a top destination for visitors, manages key city assets, and fosters international relations. Jorge shares insights on Houston's vibrant tourism industry, the city's global appeal, and exciting future developments, including the expansion of the George R....

In this episode of The Greater Loop, we sit down with John Moseley, Chief Commercial Officer of the Port of Houston, to explore the dynamic role the port plays in both local and global trade. Discover how the Port of Houston, the largest in the United States, contributes significantly to the Texas economy and supports the local community through various initiatives. John shares insights into the p...

Kevin Pasha, Managing Director of Wealth Management at JPMorgan. Discover insights into Houston's evolving economy, the city's vibrant cultural scene, and how global trends are shaping local industries. Kevin shares his unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing Houston, offering a glimpse into the future of this dynamic city. Tune in for an engaging conversation that highlights...

The Pentagon insider America's top leaders trusted for global intelligence Admiral John Kirby draws on his decades-long experience under both the Obama and Biden administrations to offer a compelling, high-level briefing on geopolitical flashpoints shaping U.S. foreign policy today. As Pentagon and State Department spokesperson during Obama’s tenure and National Security Council communications adv...

The U.S.’ s vital relationship with Canada is one of our nation’s oldest, most dynamic and mutually beneficial international partnerships. Since well before the recent prominence of autocratic governments, Canada has long been a key ally for the U.S. in developing and sustaining a world order defined by open markets, fair trade and the promotion of democratic values. As a founding member of NATO a...

In 2026, Houston will stand at the center of the global sports universe, hosting the FIFA World Cup. But behind every spectacular goal,  and every roaring crowd, lies a sophisticated world of international diplomacy that most fans never see. At this unprecedented look behind the scenes of global sports diplomacy, you’ll discover how nations compete not just on fields and courts, but in boardrooms...

Join us on The Greater Loop podcast as we dive into the world of offshore drilling with Stuart Vogt, Vice President of Corporate Tax at TransOcean. Discover the complexities of tax compliance, the fascinating engineering behind drilling rigs, and the global impact of hydrocarbons. Stuart shares insights on navigating geopolitical challenges, the future of energy, and the rewarding experiences of w...

Join us for a conversation with Nadia Bollinger, Vice President and General Manager of Managed Services at HP. Nadia shares her unique journey from Fort McMurray, Canada, to leading a global team at HP. She discusses the challenges and rewards of her role, the impact of AI on IT services, and how the hybrid workforce is reshaping customer expectations. Nadia also reflects on her career growth and...

In this episode, we delve into the transformative shift towards sustainable energy solutions, spotlighting the potential of geothermal energy and carbon sequestration. Join us as we explore how these innovative sectors are reshaping the energy landscape, offering promising alternatives to traditional fossil fuels. Discover the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the quest for a cleaner,...