Over Here, Over There: International Politics & Culture Podcast

Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler; Copyright: © 2026 Over Here, Over There. All rights reserved. Website: https://www.overhereoverthere.org
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Politics
  • Updated Biweekly

Over Here, Over There: Your essential guide to US-EU politics, international relations, and cross-cultural dialogue. Join Dan Harris (BBC commentator) and Claudia Koestler (Süddeutsche Zeitung Senior Editor) for expert analysis on democracy, transatlantic relations, and global affairs.  What We Cover:• US-European political relations & transatlantic dialogue• Democracy, governance & political systems worldwide• Cultural differences & cross-cultural understanding• International trade, tariffs & economic policy• Expert interviews with global leaders & decision-makers  Perfect for: Policy professionals, international relations students, and globally-minded citizens who want insider perspectives on world politics. New episodes weekly Hosts: Dan Harris - International marketing consultant, BBC Radio political commentatorClaudia Koestler - Senior Editor, Süddeutsche Zeitung (Germany's leading newspaper) Connect with us:Website: overhereoverthere.orgSupport us: patreon.com/overhereoverthere #InternationalPolitics, #USEURelations, #Democracy, #GlobalAffairs, #CrossCulturalDialogue, #TransatlanticRelations

  1. 5d ago

    Is Democracy Delivering?

    Why are voters losing faith in democracy—and what might restore it? Over a pint in a lively London pub, the hosts of Over Here, Over There compare the political mood in Britain, Germany and the United States. They discuss Andy Burnham’s new premiership and the pressure to deliver results, the AfD’s surge in Saxony-Anhalt, and why some voters feel frustrated or disconnected from democratic politics. Is the public expecting change too quickly—or reacting to real problems such as the cost of living, political distrust, and a sense that globalisation hasn’t worked for everyone? The conversation also explores how social media fuels comparison and pessimism, whether London’s international character can broaden our perspective, and what a democratic “fightback” might look like in the US. Plus: a preview of the hosts’ upcoming “Dump-o-meter.” A candid, cross-border conversation about democracy, populism, political polarization and everyday life in the UK, Germany and America. What matters more to you: fast results from political leaders, or protecting democratic checks and balances? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments. This episode is a conversation and political commentary, not a news bulletin. The views expressed are those of the hosts. If you enjoyed the discussion, like, subscribe, and share Over Here, Over There — a Podcast Across Borders. What should we compare next? #Democracy #UKPolitics #GermanyPolitics

    Is Democracy Delivering?

  2. Aug 24

    I, Claudia: A Fishy Question - Why is Iceland Rethinking Europe?

    A country with no standing army, a €7.3 billion fishing industry and a complicated relationship with Europe is about to ask a surprisingly big question: should Iceland restart EU membership talks? On 29 August 2026, Icelanders will vote — not on joining the European Union, but on whether to reopen negotiations. A “Yes” vote would start talks; it would not make Iceland an EU member. A second referendum would be required before Iceland could actually join. In this monologue episode of Over Here, Over There, Claudia looks beyond the headline. Why did Iceland’s EU talks stop in 2013? Why is control of its fishing grounds so politically powerful? And why has Donald Trump’s interest in Greenland — along with his apparent confusion between Greenland and Iceland — made Europe look different from Reykjavík? Iceland already has access to the European single market through the European Economic Area and participates in Schengen. It also sits in the strategically important GIUK gap between Greenland and the United Kingdom, making this small North Atlantic country significant far beyond its size. The result is a debate about much more than Brussels. It is about fish, sovereignty, economic security, Arctic geopolitics and trust in an old ally. Iceland has not suddenly fallen in love with the European Union. It is asking what to do when yesterday’s certainties begin to wobble. Watch the episode and tell us: would you reopen the talks — or keep Iceland outside the EU? This episode is presented as a pre-referendum analysis. Please check the latest official information if watching after 29 August 2026. 🎙️ Over Here, Over There — the transatlantic podcast and beyond, comparing how the same world looks different from Europe and America. Please check out this and other episodes on our website overhereoverthere.org and all major podcast platforms. Most episodes are available in video and audio versions. Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, leave a comment, and hit that notification bell to be alerted when another episode drops! This all helps us grow the OHOT podcast and bring you more content like this. Thanks again.

    I, Claudia: A Fishy Question - Why is Iceland Rethinking Europe?

  3. Aug 13

    I, Claudia: US Funds Far-Right in Europe

    The US State Department just launched a $5 million grant scheme to fund  organisations in Europe — pushing "Western civilizational heritage,"  anti-migration narratives, and attacks on the free press.  Right before Germany's September 2026 elections. This is not a conspiracy theory. It is an official US government programme,  published on state.gov, run by a bureau originally created to fight Soviet  authoritarianism. That same bureau is now targeting allied democracies. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had to warn Washington publicly : stay out  of our elections. In this episode of Over Here, Over There, we look at what is actually in  this grant scheme, who is behind it, why Germany is uniquely placed to  recognise the danger — and what it means when the country that spent decades  lecturing the world about election interference starts doing it to its friends. Key Topics US foreign policy funding in EuropeGermany's response to US influenceThe role of the State Department in European politicsHistorical context of US democracy promotionThe impact of foreign funding on European electionsGermany's constitutional resilience against external influenceThe evolution of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and LaborImplications for US-Germany relationsSound Bites "Germany had to warn the US not to interfere with its elections""Developing civilizational bonds, democratic resilience and rule of law in Europe""Germany's constitutional model was built to be hard to break" 🎙️ Over Here, Over There — the transatlantic podcast and beyond, comparing how the same world looks different from Europe and America. Please check out this and other episodes on our website overhereoverthere.org and all major podcast platforms. Most episodes are available in video and audio versions. Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, leave a comment, and hit that notification bell to be alerted when another episode drops! This all helps us grow the OHOT podcast and bring you more content like this. Thanks again. ,

    I, Claudia: US Funds Far-Right in Europe

  4. Jul 16

    Free Speech Under Pressure: Jacob Mchangama on Germany & the US

    Is free speech under threat in the world's leading democracies — including Germany and the United States?  In this episode of Over Here, Over There — the podcast across borders, host Claudia Koestler talks with Jacob Mchangama, Danish lawyer, professor at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), and author of Free Speech: A History from Socrates to Social Media, recorded live at the Amerikahaus in Munich. Mchangama is one of the foremost global experts on free speech, civil liberties, and democratic backsliding. In this wide-ranging conversation, he argues that we are living through a global free speech recession — and that both Europe and the United States are moving in a more speech-restrictive direction, each for very different reasons. In this episode: 🇩🇪 Why free speech in Germany is fundamentally different from the US — and what history has to do with it 🇺🇸 How the Trump administration is challenging democratic norms — and why the First Amendment is the last line of defense 🌍 The "global free speech recession" — which countries are getting it right (Taiwan, Hungary, Denmark) and which are not 📱 Social media, algorithms, and disinformation — are platforms really radicalizing users? ⚖️ Hate speech laws vs. free expression: where should the line be drawn? 🏛️ What democracies must do to protect themselves — without becoming what they fear 🤖 AI, information access, and why you must never outsource your mind Key quote from this episode:"Free speech is the first freedom of a democracy — without it, none of the other rights or democratic processes are really possible." — Jacob Mchangama About Over Here, Over There: :Over Here, Over There is a transatlantic podcast hosted by Claudia Koestler and Dan Harris, sharing and comparing news, politics, culture, and current affairs across the Atlantic. Recorded often at iconic and esteemed venues. 🎙️ Subscribe for new episodes every other week. 📍 Recorded at Amerikahaus München, Munich, Germany.

    Free Speech Under Pressure: Jacob Mchangama on Germany & the US

  5. Jul 3

    250 Years USA: The Constitution America Needs Right Now

    What if the most important democratic document of the last 250 years wasn't written in Philadelphia — but in post-war Germany? In this episode of Over Here, Over There, Claudia Koestler makes a case that might surprise you: Germany's Basic Law — the Grundgesetz — is one of the most sophisticated constitutional documents ever written.  Written in 1949, in the rubble of the darkest chapter in modern history, the Grundgesetz starts with three words that changed everything: "Die Würde des Menschen ist unantastbar." Human dignity is inviolable. Not a right. Not a freedom. Dignity — placed permanently beyond the reach of any government, any majority, any vote. Claudia will walk you through what makes it genuinely brilliant - and why others should build upon it. 🎙️ Over Here, Over There is a podcast about what Europe and America can learn from each other — one conversation at a time. 👉 Subscribe for new episodes every other week.

    250 Years USA: The Constitution America Needs Right Now

  6. Jul 3

    Celebrating the 250th? Not Me! An Honest Conversation About the U.S. Anniversary

    America turns 250 this year. But do Americans plan to celebrate it, or are divisions in the country putting people off the joyous occasion? In this episode of Over Here, Over There, Claudia (DE, Germany) and Dan (American, living in the UK) get personal about the United States' Semiquincentennial — and ask the questions most people are afraid to say out loud. They explore the significance of the anniversary, American patriotism, historical milestones, cultural celebrations, and the future of American ideals from a transatlantic perspective. Key questions: Will Dan and other Americans be celebrating the 250th? When did Dan last truly celebrate July 4th? What do Indigenous Americans think of this milestone? How does the UK see its former colony at 250? And what would it actually take to feel proud to be American right now? Insider and outsider perspectives. One very complicated birthday. 🎧 Over Here, Over There is a podcast about transatlantic life, culture, and politics — hosted by a German journalist and an American commentator living in Britain. 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode. 📩 Find us on Instagram, Spotify & Apple and all major podcast platforms — links in our channel page. Takeaways: The US Semiquincentennial is a moment to reflect on American ideals and history. Patriotism in the US is often quiet and centered around family and community. Current political divisions affect national celebrations and unity. The Declaration of Independence and Constitution symbolize core American values. Global perceptions of American patriotism are complex and sometimes conflicted. Resources: US Declaration of Independence (Franklin Printing Company) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Declaration_of_Independence John Adams Series on HBO - https://www.hbo.com/series/john-adams US Constitution - https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/constitution Dirk Stefan's Episode on Staying Optimistic - https://overhereoverthere.org/episodes/stay-positive  Guest links: Twitter - https://twitter.com/danharris LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danharris/

    Celebrating the 250th? Not Me! An Honest Conversation About the U.S. Anniversary

  7. Jun 3

    Bridging Cultures: Germany's Best Known American, Gayle Tufts

    Imagine moving to a country where you didn't speak the language and had to perform on stage and TV to live audiences. Daunting? Definitely. But not only did singer, songwriter, and entertainer Gayle Tufts do just that, but she has also become Germany's best-known American and a leading cultural bridge-builder. In this engaging conversation, hosts Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler explore various themes with Gayle, including the nuances of German humor, the evolution of comedy in Germany, and her personal journey of navigating identity and belonging in a new country. The discussion also touches on the impact of political events on cultural exchange, the importance of education and the arts, and the significance of dialogue in today's world.  Gayle's innovative and creative performances, highlighted by her trademark 'Dinglish', a blend of German and English, have endeared her to German audiences and made her a household name. The conversation concludes with a focus on the power of entertainment to address societal issues and foster connections across cultures.  Join this entertaining, heart-warming episode, which kicks off our series on humour and comedy from around the world. Discover why laughter and song are some of the best ways to build cultural bridges and understanding during these divisive times.  Check out all our episodes at overhereoverthere.org. Please don't forget to like, share, subscribe, and comment. We'd very much like to hear from you. Thank you! You can find Gayle Tufts' website and upcoming schedule at https://gayle-tufts.de/.

    Bridging Cultures: Germany's Best Known American, Gayle Tufts

  8. May 23

    250 Years of Hypocrisy? What a German Journalist Really Thinks About America

    🎙️ LIVE from the Amerikahaus Munich | Over Here, Over There — The Podcast Across Borders What does America really look like — from the outside? German journalist and author Johanna Roth spent four years reporting from inside the United States as a foreign correspondent for one of Germany's most respected newspapers, Die Zeit. What she found was a country at war with its own ideals — a nation that proclaimed "all men are created equal" while enslaving human beings, that celebrates freedom while living in fear, and that wraps its deepest contradictions in the flag. Her book "This is America — Is This America?" (published by Piper) is one of the most talked-about German-language analyses of the United States in years. And in this very special live episode, recorded on stage at the prestigious Amerikahaus Munich, your hosts Claudia Koestler and Dan Harris sit down with Johanna Roth for a candid, provocative, and deeply illuminating conversation — in both German and English. 🔥 In this episode, we ask: Was America founded by hypocrites — and does that original sin still define the country today? How close is American democracy to the edge? Who really runs America right now — Trump, or the Tech Bros? What do the 250 years between 1776 and today tell us about where the US is headed? Should Europeans even travel to the United States anymore? And: what can Germany and America learn from each other — if they're willing to listen? 📖 About Johanna Roth Johanna Roth (b. 1989) trained at the Deutsche Journalistenschule in Munich, and holds degrees in literature and political science. She served as US correspondent for four years before moving to Brussels as EU correspondent. Unlike many of her generation, she arrived in America without nostalgia — and left with a clear-eyed, analytical portrait of a country in profound conflict with itself. Her book "This is America — Is This America?" is available now via Piper Verlag. 🏛️ About the Amerikahaus Munich This episode was recorded live on stage at the Amerikahaus Munich — one of Germany's most important transatlantic cultural institutions, dedicated to fostering dialogue, understanding, and exchange between Europe and the United States. We are proud and grateful to partner with the Amerikahaus for this very special live recording. 🔗 Learn more: www.amerikahaus.de 🎧 About Over Here, Over There Over Here, Over There — The Podcast Across Borders brings you sharp, honest, and human conversations about what divides and connects the US and Europe. Hosted by Claudia Koestler and Dan Harris, the podcast explores transatlantic politics, culture, and society — with the curiosity of an insider and the honesty of an outsider. 🌐 Website: www.overhereoverthere.org

    250 Years of Hypocrisy? What a German Journalist Really Thinks About America
See All (97)

About

Over Here, Over There: Your essential guide to US-EU politics, international relations, and cross-cultural dialogue. Join Dan Harris (BBC commentator) and Claudia Koestler (Süddeutsche Zeitung Senior Editor) for expert analysis on democracy, transatlantic relations, and global affairs.  What We Cover:• US-European political relations & transatlantic dialogue• Democracy, governance & political systems worldwide• Cultural differences & cross-cultural understanding• International trade, tariffs & economic policy• Expert interviews with global leaders & decision-makers  Perfect for: Policy professionals, international relations students, and globally-minded citizens who want insider perspectives on world politics. New episodes weekly Hosts: Dan Harris - International marketing consultant, BBC Radio political commentatorClaudia Koestler - Senior Editor, Süddeutsche Zeitung (Germany's leading newspaper) Connect with us:Website: overhereoverthere.orgSupport us: patreon.com/overhereoverthere #InternationalPolitics, #USEURelations, #Democracy, #GlobalAffairs, #CrossCulturalDialogue, #TransatlanticRelations

Information

  • Creator
    Dan Harris and Claudia Koestler; Copyright: © 2026 Over Here, Over There. All rights reserved. Website: https://www.overhereoverthere.org
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    97
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Over Here, Over There: International Politics & Culture Podcast
  • Show Website
    Over Here, Over There: International Politics & Culture Podcast