What does the First Amendment mean in a modern, diverse America? In this episode of Back in America, host Stan Berteloot speaks with Knox Thames, an international human rights lawyer, advocate, and author with over 20 years of experience across U.S. administrations. Thames, who served as the Special Advisor for Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia, unpacks the historical roots and contemporary challenges of religious freedom in the United States.

From the First Amendment’s foundational promise of freedom of religion to the complexities of pluralism in a globalized world, this thought-provoking conversation delves into the importance of protecting the rights of all religious minorities. Thames also reflects on his book, Ending Persecution: Charting the Path to Global Religious Freedom, offering insights into how the U.S. can lead by example in a world grappling with religious intolerance.

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Host Stan Berteloot welcomes Coco Kee, entrepreneur, blockchain pioneer, and host of the Blockchain Asia Podcast. Coco shares her journey from studying literature and theater at Peking University to becoming a leading figure in cryptocurrency.

• Coco discusses on the 2024 U.S. elections and offers a unique perspectives on theChinese-American voters.
• Exploration of the surprising connections between politics and cryptocurrency.
• Coco opens up about her experiences as an immigrant and how her arts background shaped her approach to technology and business.
• Insights on how regulatory changes under different U.S. administrations have impacted the cryptocurrency industry.
• Explanation of Bitcoin's resurgence linked to political shifts and China's stance on crypto, addressing capital control vs. decentralization.
• Discussion on the convergence of AI and blockchain and how it could decentralize computing power and data ownership, counteracting big tech monopolies.
• Practical advice for crypto beginners, including ETFs as a safe entry point into digital currencies.
• Reflection on Coco’s political awakening after the 2016 election and her views on opportunities and freedoms in the U.S.
• An eye-opening discussion bridging global perspectives, emerging technologies, and a decentralized future.

About Back in America Podcast: Back in America is a thought-provoking podcast hosted by French journalist Stan Berteloot offering a multicultural perspective on American identity, culture, and values. With over 25 years of European experience, Stan explores what it means to be American through intimate conversations with diverse guests, tackling complex issues like racism, social justice, and the evolving American Dream. Featuring voices often overlooked in mainstream media, the podcast delves into timely topics and offers a critical yet empathetic view of modern America. Through live interviews and innovative storytelling, Back in America brings diverse perspectives to the forefront.

In this episode of Back in America, Stan Berteloot sits down with David Reaboi, a national security expert, media analyst, and Claremont Institute Fellow, known for his incisive takes on political warfare and influence operations. Dubbed a “right-wing Twitter pugilist” by Politico, David shares his unique perspective on some of the most contentious issues shaping the United States today.

We discuss his views on Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, and the evolving dynamics of federalism. David offers his candid take on January 6, the role of political violence, and how America’s fractured unity might lead to a breaking point. Our conversation also explores Hungary’s role as a beacon for some conservatives, the influence of figures like Elon Musk, and whether America needs to reconcile its history of slavery and Native American displacement.

David provides a window into his worldview, shaped by his upbringing, intellectual pursuits, and career at the intersection of national security and political commentary.