Dayan Reynolds, an expert on Eastern European democracy and lead for Belarus at the International Republican Institute, speaks with me about about how USAID implementing partners like IRI work with locals in Belarus to foster democracy in an authoritarian regime; background on geopolitics and culture in Eastern Europe; America's relationship with democracy as a global concept; and what people get wrong about American support for democratic activism abroad.

Tune in to learn more about an often overlooked part of Europe and Putin's only ally in the region.

Special thank to Open Gov Hub in Washington, DC for providing the studio for us to record in!

USAID Foreign Service Officer Taly Lind shares her story promoting democracy and human rights; preventing violent extremism; fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; and her plan to continue helping people in need here in the United States in a post-USAID world.

Listen in to hear about the merits of spreading democracy through peace and learn more about how USAID promoted positive values across the world.

USAID Policy Analyst Lauren Baker talks about her time shaping international development policy as a subject matter expert; promoting indigenous rights in the aid and development process; the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in policymaking; and her hopes for the future of aid in a time of tumult.

Tune in to learn more about one of the many dedicated civil servants who chose helping others as the guiding light in their career path.

Special thanks to Open Gov Hub in Washington, DC for providing the studio space for recording!