Greg and Dan talk with Brian Katulis from the Middle East Institute about current events in Iran, where citizens are expressing anger over the spiraling economy and recession. Brian explains how Iran has historically leaned toward the West and has shown interest in democratic models, but the question remains: how could such a transition realistically unfold?

They also discuss the potential global impact if Iran were to become a democracy — noting that it could be transformative, but only if a fundamentally different Iran emerges.

Brian additionally highlights his upcoming podcast episode, Taking the Edge Off the Middle East, releasing January 20th on Spotify and Apple!