From KGB agent to global powerbroker, Vladimir Putin has ruled Russia for over two decades—with a legacy defined by control, conflict, and calculated ambition.

In this episode, we explore the life and rise of one of the most influential—and controversial—leaders of the 21st century. From his Cold War roots in Soviet intelligence to his grip on the modern Kremlin, Putin’s story is shaped by the past and driven by a relentless pursuit of power.

In this episode, we uncover:

• ​Putin’s early life in post-war Leningrad
• ​His Cold War years as a KGB agent in East Germany
• ​His rapid ascent through Russian politics after the fall of the Soviet Union
• ​The consolidation of his power and the silencing of his critics
• ​Key global flashpoints—from Crimea to Ukraine and beyond
• ​His impact on geopolitics, democracy, and Russia’s place in the modern world

Follow for more revealing biographies of world leaders, disruptors, and historical figures who shaped our times.