As students return home for the semester, we all may feel slightly more distant from the academic discussion and debate that takes place on campus. Fortunately, in today’s digital world, separation from the campus community does not necessarily result in our disengagement from these conversations. Whether you have an extra 30 minutes of time on your hands or an hour to burn, podcasts are an accessible means through which you can stay caught up with policy experts, news, and discussions taking place around the world. Below are five free podcasts that will keep you connected with the international community while at home. Each podcast is available on the organization’s website as well as on Apple Podcasts.

The Truth of the Matter | Center for Strategic & International Studies

Average length: 30 minutes

CSIS is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization that is looked upon as a leader in strategic insight and scholarship on international affairs since its founding in 1962. The Truth of the Matter is hosted by Bob Schieffer and Andrew Schwartz. Through this podcast, the hosts seek to break down complex policy issues of the day through informed discussion. Recent episodes focus on COVID-19 in North and South Korea and The Age of Mass Protests. 

Brookings Cafeteria Podcast | The Brookings Institution

Average length: 30 - 45 minutes

The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit, research based institution in Washington, D.C. whose mission is to conduct in-depth research that leads to new ideas for solving problems facing society at the local, national, and global level. The Brookings Cafeteria Podcast is a great way to keep up with national and international ideas as well as the experts that have them. Recent episodes have touched on The 1979 Iranian Revolution’s Enduring Impact on the World and Global China’s Relationship with Europe.

The World in 30 Minutes with Mark Leonard | The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR)

Average length: 30 Minutes

The European Council on Foreign Relations is the first pan-European think-tank that aims to conduct innovative, independent research on European foreign and security policy. They seek to provide a safe-space for activists, decision-makers, and influencers to share ideas. New episodes are released weekly and focus on issues facing European states such as globalization, Russian foreign policy, and the refugee crisis. Recent episodes have included Corona Angst – How the Virus Puts the European Project and Globalisation at Risk and The EU as a Regulatory Superpower: Can EU Law be a Geopolitical Tool?

The Economist Radio | The Economist

Average length: 25 Minutes

The Economist is a leading source of analysis on global affairs and international economics. Although its popular weekly issue requires a subscription, the Economist Radio offers over 300 episodes of their podcast to listeners for free. Episodes are centered around different focus areas, ranging from “future-gazing” to markets, the economy, and business. Recent episodes have discussed China’s anti-covid industrial complex, coalition talks in Israel, and the extension of Putin’s tenure in office. New episodes are uploaded each week.

First Person | Foreign Policy

Average length: 30 - 35 minutes

Founded by Harvard Professor Samuel Huntington, Foreign Policy seeks to maintain an independent viewpoint and rigorous exploration of global issues. They currently maintain five podcasts focusing on pressing global issues relating to climate change, the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, and the intelligence sector. Foreign Policy’s weekly podcast, First Person, welcomes a prominent guest each week for a narrative-driven conversation touching upon a timely and important event in global affairs. Recent episodes have included The Other Brexit, Death of a War Correspondent, and The Filmmaker Who Took on Bolsonaro. Episodes are uploaded every Friday.