Best MERICS Podcasts (2025)

1
Xi Zhongxun and party history, with Joseph Torigian and Alexander Davey 32:10

Play Pause

2d ago32:10

32:10

To understand the Communist Party today requires an understanding of its history. To that end, Joseph Torigian and MERICS Analyst Alexander Davey join Johannes Heller-John to talk about a person who devoted more than 70 years of his life to the cause of the CCP, namely Xi Zhongxun, father of China’s party and state leader Xi Jinping. Joseph Torigia…

1
A Very Starfleet Christmas With Jim Johnson 50:29

4h ago50:29

50:29

Merry Christmas and welcome to a special holiday edition of Strange New Pod. Julian sits down with Jim Johnson, Project Manager for Star Trek Adventures at Modiphius, for an overdue and insightful conversation about the past, present, and future of STA. They discuss Jim’s background and love of theater, reflect on how Star Trek Adventures Second Ed…

1
Domestic debates on China’s global impact, with Alexander Davey and Kristin Shi-Kupfer 34:48

6d ago34:48

34:48

2025 has seen the Chinese government act with increasing confidence in its own power and agency on the international stage. Is this confidence mirrored in Chinese self-perceptions? MERICS Analyst Alexander Davey and professor for sinology at the University of Trier Kristin Shi-Kupfer join Johannes Heller-John to cast a spotlight on domestic debates…

1
Under the Radar Favorite Episodes 1:08:54

6d ago1:08:54

1:08:54

This week, we are diving into some of our favorite under-the-radar Star Trek episodes that deserve a lot more love. Deep cuts, strange choices, and episodes that quietly say a lot about the franchise we love. This week’s picks: Julian revisits TNG Season 1’s “Arsenal of Freedom,” a rough era classic packed with big ideas, strange tech, and early-se…

1
The Trek Movieverse | Is There a Future? 2:28:37

13d ago2:28:37

2:28:37

With Skydance’s acquisition of Paramount, the Trek movie landscape has shifted once again. The Kelvinverse looks to be shelved (again), and now rumors are swirling about a brand new cinematic take on Star Trek from Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves writers Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley. So what’s changed since our Trek at the Movi…

1
China's global vision, with Katja Drinhausen and Manoj Kewalramani 44:36

15d ago44:36

44:36

Eighty years after its foundation, calls for a reform of the United Nations are abundant. Since 2021, China has put forth ideas for such reforms and a different world order in the form of international initiatives like the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative or Beijing’s most recent addition, the Global Governance Initiati…

1
Alternative Space: Susan and Tilly Bridges 1:16:41

15d ago1:16:41

1:16:41

In the latest episode of Alternative Space, host Amy Imhoff sits down with the brilliant Susan and Tilly Bridges for a thoughtful, candid, and energizing conversation about representation across the Star Trek universe and beyond. Together, they dig into the realities of being women and trans creators in the writers' room, the complexities of being …

1
China in 25: MERICS China Forecast + Ausblick 2026 + Macron und Wadephul in China 25:40

20d ago25:40

25:40

In dieser Folge des "China in 25"-Podcasts wagen Bernhard Bartsch, Mikko Huotari und Claudia Wessling einen Blick ins Jahr 2026. Dabei schauen sie auf die Ergebnisse unseres MERICS China Forecast, die anstehenden Themen des kommenden Jahres und die Chinareisen des französischen Präsidenten Macron und des deutschen Außenministers Wadephul. Für Mikko…

1
Tony Todd | Remembering a Legend 1:09:00

20d ago1:09:00

1:09:00

This week on Strange New Pod, we honor the legendary Tony Todd on what would have been his birthday and a little over a year since his passing. We look back at his unforgettable impact on Star Trek, from Kurn, brother of Worf, to Older Jake Sisko in "The Visitor," to the formidable Hirogen Alpha on Voyager. We also celebrate his powerful legacy in …

1
Talking Star Trek Adventures w/ Al Spader, Meric Moir, and Michael Dismuke 1:04:57

1M ago1:04:57

1:04:57

Strange New Pod beams up an incredible trio for this special episode as Julian sits down with the writers behind the Star Trek Adventures Second Edition Starter Campaign: Al Spader, Meric Moir, and Michael Dismuke. Together, they dive into the creative heart of the campaign, exploring the inspiration behind its story, how it welcomes brand-new TTRP…

1
China in 25: Klingbeil in China + Handelsüberschuss + Chinas Inlandsinvestitionen 23:46

1M ago23:46

23:46

In dieser Folge des "China in 25"-Podcasts sprechen Bernhard Bartsch, Mikko Huotari und Claudia Wessling über die China-Reise von Finanzminister und Vize-Kanzler Lars Klingbeil, über Chinas globale Handelsüberschüsse und über den Einbruch der chinesischen Inlandsinvestitionen. Während die Reise von Vize-Kanzler Klingbeil eine Art Rückkehr zur Norma…

1
Star Trek Khan: A Sit Down with David Mack and Kirsten Beyer 55:10

1M ago55:10

55:10

This week on SNP, we’re sitting down with two titans of the Star Trek universe: David Mack and Kirsten Beyer, the brilliant writers behind Star Trek: Khan. We’ll dive deep into the origins of one of Trek’s most iconic villains, explore how they brought new depth to Khan’s legacy, and get a peek behind the curtain of writing within the Star Trek can…

1
SNA Whatever Should Be Done Must Be Done, Act 3: "The Codex" Season Finale 1:45:32

1M ago1:45:32

1:45:32

Star Trek Adventures: Whatever Should Be Done Must Be Done — Act III “The Codex” Second Edition Starter Campaign Finale! After seven months of exploration, discovery, and danger, the SNA crew reaches the grand finale of the Star Trek Adventures Second Edition Starter Campaign. What will they uncover in The Codex? Can they protect the ideals of the …

1
US China policy under Trump 2.0, with George Yin 25:03

2M ago25:03

25:03

The relationship between the US and China has been fraud with conflict for many years and its twists and turns have global effects. In this episode, George Yin joins Johannes Heller-John to decipher the China policy of the US and its continuities and changes over the last administrations. They also discuss what the EU can do to find its place amids…

1
"Eternity's Face" Star Trek Khan Finale Review 1:29:18

2M ago1:29:18

1:29:18

Join us live as we dive into Star Trek: Khan, the brand-new scripted podcast that expands one of Trek’s most legendary stories. This week, Girafe and the crew break down the finale of the series, "Eternity's Face!" Episode Synopsis: Dissent among Khan's followers threatens Venture's launch. Khan faces one last threat to his rule, and a final decisi…

1
China in 25: Das Treffen von Trump und Xi - Deutsch-chinesische Beziehungen + Chinas nächster Fünfjahrplan 22:59

2M ago22:59

22:59

In dieser Folge des "China in 25"-Podcasts sprechen Bernhard Bartsch, Mikko Huotari und Claudia Wessling über die mit Spannung erwartete Begegnung von Donald Trump und Xi Jinping in Südkorea, über den Stand der deutsch-chinesischen Beziehungen nach der Absage der China-Reise von Außenminister Wadephul und den nächsten Fünfjahrplan, dessen Schwerpun…

1
Star Trek Khan "Original Sin" Review 1:08:53

2M ago1:08:53

1:08:53

Join us as we dive into Star Trek: Khan, the brand-new scripted podcast that expands one of Trek’s most legendary stories. This week, Girafe, Julian, and Hawk break down the penultimate episode of the series, "Original Sin!" Episode Synopsis: Five years after disaster sweeps the planet, Khan's people and the Elboreans prepare their joint, single ve…

1
SNA Whatever Should Be Done Must Be Done, Act 2: "Into the Shadow Maw Nebula" 1:38:15

2M ago1:38:15

1:38:15

Strange New Adventures: “Into the Shadow Maw Nebula” (Act Two of whatever Should Be Done Must Be Done) The chase intensifies as the crew of the Challenger follows Urotoxa’s trail deep into the mysterious Shadow Maw Nebula, a swirling expanse of volatile energy and treacherous gravitational currents. On a moon shrouded within, Urotoxa and her team m…

1
Star Trek Khan Episode 6-7 Reviews w/ Jessie Earl 1:42:29

2M ago1:42:29

1:42:29

Join us as we dive into Star Trek: Khan, the brand-new scripted podcast that expands one of Trek’s most legendary stories. This week, Girafe and Hawk are joined by our friend and special guest Jessie Earl to break down episodes six and seven, "The Good of All" and "I am Marla."" The Good of All" Synopsis: Khan struggles to understand the Elboreans …

1
SNA Whatever Should Be Done Must Be Done, Act 1: "Performance Evaluation" 1:52:47

2M ago1:52:47

1:52:47

As the crew of the USS Challenger embarks on the final chapter of the starter campaign, Commander Xanthus th’Raviq faces a difficult test. Admiral Robert April personally conducts a debriefing, questioning whether this crew is truly suited to continue the hunt for the fugitive Dr. Urotoxa. With the Admiral’s reluctant blessing, the Challenger sets …

1
Exploring strategic new frontiers, with Helena Legarda 28:16

2M ago28:16

28:16

China has designated cyberspace, outer space, the polar regions and the deep sea as “strategic new frontiers”. It sees competition with the US and Europe extending into these areas as well. Helena Legarda, Head of the Foreign Relations Program at MERICS, joins Johannes Heller-John to talk about what interests China has in these areas and how Europe…

1
CCP priorities and the Fourth Plenum, with Alexander Davey 24:34

2M ago24:34

24:34

Ahead of the Fourth Plenum of the 20th Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), this episode of the MERICS China Podcast looks at three issues that are high on the priority list for Chinese decisionmakers, namely urban development, social welfare and global trade tensions. Alexander Davey, Analyst in the Politics and Society Program …

1
Star Trek Lower Decks | Season One Five Years Later w/ Jean Kang 2:21:09

2M ago2:21:09

2:21:09

It’s time to boldly go… to a party in the Cerritos Lounge five years in the making! 🚀Join us LIVE as we celebrate the fifth anniversary of Star Trek: Lower Decks Season One, the series that turned ensign chaos, heartfelt storytelling, and deep-cut Trek references into an animated phenomenon! We’re joined by special guest Jean Kang, Lower Decks stor…

1
SNA Dare to Be Wise, Act 3: "Fractured Identities" 1:38:43

2M ago1:38:43

1:38:43

With Ensign Tennan critically injured but still determined to lend his expertise, the crew of the U.S.S. Challenger faces its greatest trial yet. As they make first contact with the mysterious Bryozoan Conveyer, the truth of the Colony’s invasion finally comes to light: the species is not seeking conquest, but survival, driven to desperate measures…

1
The local reassertion of the Communist Party, with Katja Drinhausen and Nis Grünberg 28:41

3M ago28:41

28:41

Governing the people and keeping society “harmonious”, stable and united is seen by the CCP leadership as a core task. The party is now systematically inserting itself into all layers and spheres of society. Johannes Heller-John talks to MERICS Experts Katja Drinhausen, Head of the Politics and Society Program, and Nis Grünberg, Lead Analyst. Toget…

1
Star Trek at NYCC 2025 | New York Comic Con Wrap-Up 1:30:43

2M ago1:30:43

1:30:43

We’re beaming up to break down everything Trek fans were treated to this weekend! From the first look at Strange New Worlds Season 4 to the second official trailer drop for Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, there’s a lot to talk about, and we’ve got thoughts. Join us as we dig into all the big reveals, panel highlights, surprise moments, and yes, even …

1
SNW "Ring of Fire" | A Sit Down With David Mack 1:01:40

3M ago1:01:40

1:01:40

On this bonus edition of Strange New Pod, Julian and Emcee welcome New York Times bestselling author David Mack aboard to talk all about his brand-new Star Trek: Strange New Worlds novel, Ring of Fire! Get ready for a deep dive at warp speed as they explore everything from Pike’s haunted past and Una’s hidden secrets to Spock, Chapel, and La’An’s t…

1
Star Trek Khan "Imagination's Limits" Review 1:24:31

3M ago1:24:31

1:24:31

Join the SNP crew as they dive into Star Trek: Khan, the brand-new scripted podcast that expands one of Trek’s most legendary stories. This week, Girafe and the crew break down episode five, "Imagination's Limits!" Episode Synopsis: Khan and his people prepare for inescapable calamity, and learn they are no longer alone on this world. Are these mys…

1
Alternative Space: Tiffany Chow 1:11:43

3M ago1:11:43

1:11:43

On this episode of Alternative Space, Girafe sits down with Dr. Tiffany Chow, a leading physician and neuroscientist specializing in Alzheimer’s and other dementias. They explore the latest insights into neurodegenerative disorders, discuss the unique ways space travel affects the brain, and reflect on the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode “Sa…

1
Star Trek: Khan "Magical Thinking" Review 1:06:13

3M ago1:06:13

1:06:13

Join us live as we dive into Star Trek: Khan, the brand-new scripted podcast that expands one of Trek’s most legendary stories. This week, Girafe and Hawk break down episode four, "Magical Thinking!" Episode Synopsis: Marla McGivers identifies an urgent threat to the colony. Khan grapples with leading his followers through increasingly difficult ti…

1
China in 25: USA und China bei der UN + TikTok + EUCCC-Positionspapier 27:13

3M ago27:13

27:13

„China in 25“ – in rund 25 Minuten sprechen Mikko Huotari, Bernhard Bartsch und Claudia Wessling über aktuelle Entwicklungen in China. In dieser Folge geht es darum, wie China seine Position als globaler Akteur bei der UN-Generalversammlung in New York stärkte, wie Washington und China versuchen, einen Deal für TikTok aufzusetzen und wie europäisch…

1
SNA Dare to Be Wise, Act 2: "Not Yet Finished" 58:28

3M ago58:28

58:28

Act 2: Not Yet Finished of Dare to Be Wise is available now! After Ensign Tennan is critically injured while repairing Challenger’s impulse drive, the crew’s fate hangs in the balance. Can Dr. Voraal’s medical expertise save the young officer’s life? Or will Tennan become the Challenger’s first casualty? But there’s no time to breathe. As the ship …

1
Star Trek: Khan Episodes 1-3 Review 1:22:38

3M ago1:22:38

1:22:38

Join us as the SNP Crew dives into Star Trek: Khan, the brand-new scripted podcast that expands one of Trek’s most legendary stories. We’ll be breaking down the premiere episodes, sharing our thoughts, and chatting with you in real-time about what this means for the legacy of Khan Noonien Singh. Episode Synopses: Episode 1: "Paradise" — Marooned by…

1
Alternative Space: Elizabeth Kennick 1:00:33

3M ago1:00:33

1:00:33

In this brand new episode of Alternative Space, Amy and Giraffe sit down with Liz Kennick, President of Teachers in Space. Liz shares how her organization is empowering educators with real-world spaceflight experiences, hands-on experiments, and classroom-ready resources designed to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorer…

1
The Price of Power: Thomas Meric on Policy, Investment, and Infrastructure 1:17:49

3M ago1:17:49

1:17:49

In this episode of Know Power, hosts Noha and Mike are joined by energy finance expert Thomas Meric, formerly of Janney Montgomery. They explore how political pressure, regulatory constraints, and supply chain issues are shaping power markets, new builds, and nuclear deployment. Thomas explains the capital hurdles in energy investment, shares his v…

1
"New Life and New Civilizations" Strange New Worlds S3 Finale Review 2:04:52

3M ago2:04:52

2:04:52

Join the Strange New Pod Crew for our review of the Strange New Worlds season three finale, "New Life and New Civilizations." "New Life and New Civilizations" is written by Dana Horgan & Davy Perez, and directed by Marja Vrvilo. When an ancient, evil alien force re-emerges, Pike must make one of the hardest decisions of his life to stop the evil fr…

1
SNA Dare to Be Wise, Act 1: "Though We Stumble" 1:27:23

4M ago1:27:23

1:27:23

The journey continues as our crew launches into Adventure 2: Dare to Be Wise! In Act 1, the U.S.S. Challenger is ordered to survey a dense asteroid field, but the mission goes off-course almost immediately. When Commodore Xen and her crew arrive to begin their survey, the situation on board goes from bad to worse. Time is running out, Challenger’s …

1
SNW "Terrarium" Review 1:45:59

4M ago1:45:59

1:45:59

Join the Strange New Pod Crew for our review of the penultimate episode of Strange New Worlds season three, "Terrarium." "Terrarium" is written by Alan B. McElroy and directed by Andrew Coutts. When Ortegas crash lands on a deadly, toxic moon, where the chances of survival are slim to none, she finds herself stranded and forced to challenge her mos…

1
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization as a vehicle to promote narratives of China and Russia, with Claus Soong 21:16

4M ago21:16

21:16

From August 31 until September 1, China’s party and state leader Xi Jinping will chair the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in the Chinese port city Tianjin. Among the leaders expected at the summit is Russian president Vladimir Putin. In a new episode of our podcast, MERICS Analyst Claus Soong explores the role of the group in…