Foreign Press Podcast

Can the U.S. and China Rebuild Trust? 07.07.2026 28min

Trade once anchored the US-China relationship—but can it still serve as a bridge in an era of deepening rivalry? In this episode of the Foreign Press Podcast, AFPC-USA speaks with Merle Hinrich, chair and founder of the Hinrich Foundation, about the growing trust deficit between the world's two largest economies. Joining the conversation is Ana Swanson, international trade reporter for The New York Times, who explores how globalization gave way to geopolitical competition. They discuss the fallout from President Donald Trump's recent visit to China, rising protectionism, industrial policy, rare earth export controls, and the future of global trade, analyzing whether the old model of engagement has come to an end.

The Benefits and Challenges of Independent Journalism 03.07.2026 19min

The media industry is changing at a pace we’ve never seen before. Layoffs, shrinking newsrooms, the rise of the creator economy and new platforms like Substack are challenging what it means to be a journalist today. More reporters are leaving traditional media, or being forced to leave, and building independent brands. But can independence truly replace everything a newsroom provides? What do journalists gain, what do they lose, and what does this transformation mean for the future of journalism? To help us explore those questions, White House Correspondent Patrícia Vasconcellos interviewed Mallary Tenore Tarpley. Mallary is an award-winning journalist, journalism professor, and the author of the thought-provoking article "What Journalists Gain—and Lose—When They Go Independent."

What Hormuz Means for Asia's Energy Security 30.06.2026 39min

As tensions in the Middle East disrupted one of the world's most critical shipping routes, what did the Strait of Hormuz blockade reveal about the future of global trade and energy security? In this episode, ImportGenius Research Director William George discusses his latest Hinrich Foundation paper, co-authored with Lynn Hughes, examining how the crisis exposed stark differences in the resilience of Asian economies. He explains why China weathered the disruption relatively well, why Japan's energy strategy proved more resilient than expected, and why Vietnam emerged as one of the most vulnerable countries. The conversation also explores how shifting supply chains could accelerate Vietnam's adoption of Chinese renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles. George joins veteran journalist Roseanne Gerin to unpack what the Hormuz crisis says about energy security, geopolitical competition, and the realities of doing business in an increasingly multipolar world.This podcast episode was produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this episode.

How the US-China Race Shifted from Tariffs to Chokepoints 23.06.2026 38min

The 2025 U.S.-China trade war was about far more than tariffs. According to Georgetown University scholar Evan Medeiros, it marked a structural turning point in the relationship between the world's two largest economies. In this episode, Medeiros joins veteran journalist Roseanne Gerin to discuss his latest research paper, "A New Era of U.S.-China Interaction: From Competing to Racing," published by the National Bureau of Asian Research with support from the Hinrich Foundation. They explore how the trade conflict evolved into a broader supply-chain war, exposing vulnerabilities on both sides and reshaping competition over critical minerals, semiconductors, advanced technologies, and global manufacturing networks. Medeiros explains why the U.S. and China are now engaged in a "race for leverage," how economic interdependence is increasingly being weaponized, and what this means for policymakers, businesses, and the future of global trade. The conversation also examines China's push for self-sufficiency, America's evolving strategy toward Beijing, and the growing challenges of managing competition while maintaining coexistence.This podcast episode was produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this episode.

The Frontlines of Journalism: Nadia Bilbassy on Conflict and Credibility 04.06.2026 55min

In our latest episode, Nadia Bilbassy, the Bureau Chief for Al Arabiya News Channel and the outlet’s chief White House Correspondent, reflects on a groundbreaking career that has taken her from some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones to the center of U.S. foreign policy reporting in Washington. Drawing on decades of experience covering wars, diplomacy, and political upheaval, Bilbassy discusses what reporting from places like Sudan, Rwanda, Somalia, and Iraq taught her about journalism, responsibility, and the human cost of conflict. She also explored her role as a pioneering Arab journalist reporting from Africa for a major Arab television network, the evolution of journalism in the digital age, and the growing challenges posed by misinformation, polarization, and social media. Bilbassy offers insights into how Arab audiences view the United States, the complexities of covering American foreign policy for international viewers, and the realities of war reporting from both the battlefield and the diplomatic arena.This interview was conducted by Alan Herrera, who oversees AFPC-USA's editorial operations.

Inside S&P Global’s Approach to Media, AI and Reputation: A Conversation with Christina Twomey 20.05.2026 36min

In our latest episode, journalist Roseanne Gerin sits down with Christina Twomey to discuss the evolving relationship between journalism, corporate communications, and global markets.Twomey reflects on her transition into the Chief Communications Officer role at S&P Global and how joining the C-suite reshaped her approach to leadership, strategy, and reputational risk. The conversation explores the growing influence of AI in communications, the rise of misinformation and deepfakes, and why trust and strong journalist relationships remain essential in an increasingly fragmented information environment.Twomey also shares insights into crisis management, global messaging, media engagement, and the importance of maintaining clear, factual communication during periods of geopolitical and market uncertainty. The episode builds on Twomey’s previous 2024 interview with AFPC-USA editorial supervisor Alan Herrera and offers listeners a deeper look at how communications leadership is adapting in real time to technological disruption and global change.

Can the G7 Survive a Fragmented World? 19.05.2026 32min

In our latest episode, produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation, host Roseanne Gerin sits down with Peter Draper, co-editor with Andreas Freytag of The Elgar Companion to the G7, to explore the future of the Group of Seven as it approaches 50 years at the center of global economic governance.Draper explains how the G7’s informal structure allows world leaders to negotiate sensitive issues — from climate policy to sanctions and financial crises — away from public scrutiny while navigating domestic political pressures. The conversation also examines the mounting challenges facing the bloc, including the rise of China, the growing influence of BRICS, and the expanding role of the G20. Draper discusses how populist politics, shifting alliances, and changes in U.S. leadership are straining the consensus that once unified the world’s leading democracies.This episode was produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this episode.

The Skills Journalism Teaches You for Life After Media: Insights from Lenovo's David Hamilton 15.05.2026 40min

In our latest episode, Ana Rita Guerra, a Portuguese journalist who is the West Coast correspondent for Lusa, sat down with veteran journalist David Hamilton, now Director of Communications at Lenovo North America, to discuss his transition from journalism into public relations and the insights he gained navigating both industries. Hamilton shared insights about his transition out of journalism and how that experience was essential to helping him navigate his career pivot. Those journalistic instincts very much help him guide his team today. A valuable listen to those looking to make the jump from journalism to public relations and corporate communications.

The U.S. Balance of Payments Gamble: All About the Section 122 Strategy 05.05.2026 38min

What happens when one legal path to tariffs is closed—and another quickly opens?In this episode, AFPC-USA, in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation, sits down with Dawn Shackleford, president of Looking Glass Trade, LLC, to unpack how the Trump administration pivoted to Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 after the U.S. Supreme Court blocked its use of IEEPA to impose tariffs. Shackleford explains what Section 122 allows, why the administration settled on a 10% tariff, and what would be required to justify going higher. She also breaks down what a genuine balance-of-payments crisis actually looks like—and why international institutions like the IMF matter in determining whether trade restrictions are warranted. Hosted by veteran journalist Roseanne Gerin, this conversation offers a clear-eyed look at the legal, economic, and global stakes behind America’s evolving trade strategy.This podcast episode was produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this episode.

Why the WTO Is Struggling to Adapt 21.04.2026 49min

In our latest episode, AFPC-USA explores why the World Trade Organization is struggling to adapt to a rapidly changing global economy. Host Roseanne Gerin sits down with Keith Rockwell, Senior Research Fellow at the Hinrich Foundation and former longtime WTO spokesman. Drawing on his latest white paper, Rockwell argues the WTO is at an existential turning point. He explains how core principles like most-favoured-nation treatment and consensus decision-making are increasingly under strain. The conversation examines why incremental reforms may fall short of saving the institution in addition to the rise of alternative trade frameworks outside the WTO.This podcast episode was produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this episode.

China's Industrial Catalog and the Global Trade Ripple Effect 17.03.2026 40min

China now produces more than 30% of the world’s manufactured goods—more than the United States, Germany, and South Korea combined. In this episode, host Roseanne Gerin sits down with economist Mariko Watanabe to unpack what that scale really means. Drawing on Watanabe’s research with the Hinrich Foundation, the conversation explores why some scholars believe China should push its global manufacturing share even higher—and how scale has become a strategic asset. But size comes with consequences. The episode examines how industrial policy is reshaping global competition and how overcapacity can distort markets, suppress prices, and strain trade relationships worldwide.This podcast episode was produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this episode.

Funding, Lawsuits, and the First Amendment: Inside VOA’s Defining Moment 25.02.2026 41min

In this episode, Patsy Widakuswara, Voice of America's Washington bureau chief, breaks down the lawsuit that bears her name and what it means for the survival of VOA. She shares how the legal fight reshaped the lives of hundreds of journalists placed on leave. Alongside VOA's press freedom editor Jessica Jerreat, she explores what’s at stake for editorial independence and public trust. The two unpack Congress’s recent funding decision for U.S. Agency for Global Media and whether it signals stability ahead. They also reflect on political pressure, newsroom resilience, and reporting in uncertain times. How do journalists keep doing their jobs when the institution itself is under threat? And what does this moment reveal about the global fight for press freedom?This interview was conducted by Alan Herrera, who oversees AFPC-USA's editorial operations.

When the Classroom Meets the Crisis: Regina McCombs on Preparing Reporters for Risk 25.02.2026 30min

In Minnesota, journalism students are preparing for a reality few classrooms once imagined. Senior lecturer Regina McCombs discusses how today’s reporters must navigate not only misinformation and AI-generated media, but also real-world safety risks. Through the new Crisis Ready Media initiative, students are receiving training typically reserved for professionals covering conflict zones. The program includes hostile-environment awareness and first-aid instruction designed to help journalists make smart decisions in volatile situations. Organized alongside local newsroom partners, the training reflects the pressures facing reporters amid ICE operations and protests in Minneapolis. McCombs explains why preparation, ethics, and verification matter more than ever in an era of disinformation. Participation is voluntary, underscoring that safety and choice remain central to the program’s mission. This episode explores how journalism education is evolving — and what it means for the next generation of reporters.This interview was conducted by Alan Herrera, who oversees AFPC-USA's editorial operations.

Leading the News: Caren Bohan on Reporting, the White House, and the Future of Journalism 17.02.2026 32min

In this episode, Caren Bohan reflects on three decades in American journalism — from local reporting to the White House beat to leading the newsroom at USA Today. She offers practical guidance for foreign correspondents, discusses the challenges facing political reporting, and explores how the industry is adapting to rapid technological and economic changes.This interview was conducted by Roseanne Gerin, a veteran journalist with more than 25 years of experience and former editor at Radio Free Asia in Washington.

Beyond Rare Earths: Why the West’s Supply Chain Problem Is Bigger Than China 27.01.2026 57min

Western governments are racing to loosen China’s grip on rare earth minerals — but is that strategy too narrow to work? In this episode, Hinrich Foundation Senior Research Fellow Stewart Paterson explains based on his research why special interventions and short-term fixes won’t solve deeper supply-chain vulnerabilities. Drawing lessons from the Russia–Ukraine war, he highlights how many critical technologies depend on industrial processes the West no longer produces at scale. What does real resilience look like when global trade is weaponized? And how can allied nations rebuild capacity without turning inward?The conversation looks beyond rare earths to the broader question of economic security in an era of geopolitical fragmentation. Paterson spoke to Roseanne Gerin, a veteran journalist with more than 25 years of experience and former editor at Radio Free Asia in Washington.This episode was produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this episode.

On Reporting Even When the Toll is Deeply Personal: Thoughts from Al Jazeera's Gaza Bureau Chief 19.11.2025 48min

In this episode, Al Jazeera Gaza bureau chief Wael Al-Dahdouh reflects on reporting a war he says is “unprecedented in modern history.” As one of the few journalists able to document the conflict from inside Gaza, he describes covering mass destruction while grieving the loss of his own family members. Al-Dahdouh explains why he refuses to stop reporting, the collapse of press protections, and the rise of citizen journalists filling critical gaps. He also addresses widespread frustration with international media coverage and the moral weight of telling Gaza’s story under fire. His message is a call for courage, accuracy, and global solidarity among journalists—even when the cost is extraordinary.This interview was conducted by Alan Herrera, who oversees AFPC-USA's editorial operations.

How Trump's Tariffs Impact Automakers Around the World 19.08.2025 33min

How are Trump’s auto tariffs reshaping the global car industry? In this episode, the Association of Foreign Press Correspondents in the U.S. (AFPC-USA), in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation, dives into the ripple effects of trade tensions on automakers worldwide. Host Paul Beckett (Wall Street Journal) speaks with Yuka Hayashi, VP at The Asia Group and author of new Hinrich research, on why some automakers are hit harder than others. From Japan to South Korea to Europe, the conversation unpacks who’s losing, who’s adapting, and what it all means for the future of global trade.This episode was produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. AFPC-USA is solely responsible for the content of this episode.

Al Jazeera Media Network's Mohamed Moawad on Protecting Gaza's Journalists 06.08.2025 34min

In this episode of our Foreign Press Podcast, we met with Mohamed Moawad, an award-winning Arab journalist who is the Managing Editor for Al Jazeera Media Network, to discuss the ongoing crisis in Gaza and how it is impacting the organization's journalists—to say nothing of others who work round the clock to document its sheer scale. Al Jazeera Media Network recently published a call to action to protect Gaza's journalists; an unprecedented number have been targeted and killed since the crisis began.Join us for an educational yet sobering look into the issues affecting journalists and what Al Jazeera Media Network is doing to highlight their struggles.This interview was conducted by Alan Herrera, who is AFPC-USA's Editorial Supervisor.

The Impact of Smartphones on the U.S.-China Rivalry 29.07.2025 49min

On July 8, the Association of Foreign Press Correspondents in the United States (AFPC-USA) hosted a podcast episode produced in partnership with the Hinrich Foundation. The episode focused on the US-China tech rivalry, specifically on how smartphones have influenced the contentious relationship between the two nations amid global trade tensions.The episode was hosted by Vlad Savov, the Technology Editor for Bloomberg News in Hong Kong. The podcast guest was Michael Enright, the Pierre Choueiri Family Professor in Global Business at Northeastern University, who specializes in international competitiveness and business strategy. He recently published a paper for the Hinrich Foundation that dove into the smartphone issue, sharing key insights that demystify another dimension of the sensitive matters impacting global trade.

Unpacking the Beast That is Immigration in America 29.07.2025 1u 1min

The United States has a complicated relationship with immigration. Or, does it? In this podcast episode, we unpack immigration policies in the US and narratives around immigration with Prof. Hiroshi Motomura and Prof. Cecilia Menjívar from UCLA.This interview was conducted by Ankita M. Kumar, who is an AFPC-USA Professional Excellence awardee.