A Podcast By The Basilinna Institute
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Tholos Talks is a series following the spirit of the Tholos circle, where Ancient Greek intellectuals gathered to debate the issues of their day. Through deep insight and thought-provoking dialogue, we offer the tools to decode complexity and illuminate the path forward.
Tholos Talks is a Basilinna Institute produced podcast.
Coffee, Trade, and Tech, Episode #5
Digital Sovereignty and the New Trade Order
In episode five of our Tholos Talks series that unpacks the defining economic challenges of the 21st century — Coffee, Trade, and Tech — Jake welcomes Sabina Ciofu, Associate Director - International at techUK, to discuss the evolving landscape of digital trade policy. The conversation highlights recent developments such as the UK–India Free Trade Agreement and the U.S.–UK digital trade framework, with Sabina offering insights into the uncertain future of U.S. engagement in digital trade and its potential implications for other countries.
The Future of USMCA and
Regional Trade Dynamics
Coffee, Trade, and Tech, Episode #4
Jake welcomes Ryan C. Berg, Director of the Americas Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) to discuss the evolving dynamics of U.S. trade policy and regional strategy in the Western Hemisphere. Highlighting key issues surrounding the impact of the Trump administration’s tariff policy, the upcoming 2026 USMCA review, and the future of regional collaboration, supply chains, and economic integration.
Recovering Looted Artifacts
and Turning the Tide on
Antiquities Trafficking
Understanding the Thriving Trade in Looted Antiquities, Episode #4
In episode four of Understanding the Thriving Trade in Looted Antiquities — a Tholos Talks series that explores the global repercussions of the antiquities trade — Deborah talks to JP Labbat, a leading expert in cultural heritage protection, to discuss the evolving fight against antiquities trafficking and the recovery of stolen artifacts.
Heritage in Crisis and The Changing Role of Museums
Understanding the Thriving Trade in Looted Antiquities, Episode #3
In episode three of Understanding the Thriving Trade in Looted Antiquities — a Tholos Talks series exploring the global repercussions of the antiquities trade — Deborah welcomes Richard Kurin, an American cultural anthropologist, museum official, and author, to discuss the evolving role of museums in preserving heritage, combating the illicit trade in antiquities, and serving as vital sources of public knowledge.
Decoding U.S., China, and
Latin America Dynamics
Coffee, Trade, and Tech, Episode #3
Jake and Margaret Myers, Managing Director for Institute for America, China, and the Future of Global Affairs (ACF) at The John Hopkins University Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and Basilinna Senior Fellow discuss China’s “ever evolving” engagement with Latin America, the effectiveness of the Belt and Road Initiative in Latin America, opportunities for constructive U.S. engagement in Latin America, and other key insights from Margaret’s research.
Semiconductors and the
Global Economy
Coffee, Trade, and Tech, Episode #2
Jake sits down with John Neuffer, President and CEO of the Semiconductor Industry Association, to explore the complexity of the global semiconductor market. They discuss how the industry has been shaped by America First trade policies, how semiconductor trade will influence U.S.-China relations, and the urgent challenges facing the semiconductor workforce.
The Dark Side of the Art Market:
The Illicit Trade
Understanding the Thriving Trade in Looted Antiquities, Episode #2
Deborah sits down with Tess Davis, Executive Director of The Antiquities Coalition, to examine the implications of cultural racketeering and discuss strategies for preserving our shared history.
Coffee, Trade, and Tech, Episode #1
Trump 2.0
Jake sits down with Scott Miller and Bill Reinsch—better known as The Trade Guys. Together, they break down the shifting landscape of global trade, the transformative role of technology in economic policy, and what businesses must navigate in an increasingly complex market.
Why Do Culture and Heritage Matter?
Understanding the Thriving Trade in Looted Antiquities, Episode #1
In our premiere episode, Deborah Lehr, Basilinna CEO, and founder of the Antiquities Coalition, sits down with Ambassador Irina Bokova to kick off our series on culture and discuss a fundamental question: What is the role of culture, and does it matter?