In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras welcomes Valentin, Communications Director at the College of Europe in Bruges. Being an alumnus of the College, Andras and Valentin discuss political communication, European federalism, and the future of democracy in a digital age.Valentin shares his unconventional career path from sports management and youth activism to leading communications at one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions. He shares his experience when he was working with the Greens, the challenges of shaping messages that truly change minds, and why political communication should focus on impact rather than visibility.They explore how emotions, attention economics, and algorithms shape public opinion, how populism thrives in today’s digital ecosystem, and why progressive movements often underestimate psychology and framing. Valentin discusses the power of narratives, the loss of grand ideologies, and the need to redefine progress beyond technology toward social connection, time, and quality of life.Andras and Valentin discuss AI’s growing influence on persuasion, its ethical risks in politics, and the widening gap between those who use it aggressively and those who hesitate for moral reasons. Valentin also explains how the College of Europe approaches authentic communication, focusing on trust and community over digital advertising, and what this means for future generations of European leaders.This episode goes into the core questions of what makes communication real, how Europe can rebuild trust and meaning in its story, and how technology can serve people rather than control them.https://www.linkedin.com/in/valentindupouey/
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras welcomes Prince Charles-Antoine de Ligne La Trémoïlle for a wide-ranging conversation about nobility, heritage, responsibility, business, and the state of Europe today.
Prince Charles-Antoine shares the remarkable history of his family, whose roots date back a 1000 years and whose name carries stories of knights, alliances, and a lineage intertwined with European history. He explains what it means to hold a noble title in the modern world, how the concept of noblesse oblige still guides him, and why setting an example remains an essential duty.Andras and the Prince explore his entrepreneurial projects, from developing the eco-resort “Your Nature” in Belgium to his earlier ventures in the United States. The discussion expands into the broader economic and political landscape: Europe’s challenges with overregulation and taxation, the cultural shifts in work ethic, and the balance between democracy, efficiency, and long-term vision.The conversation includes money, freedom, and the meaning of happiness, as well as the importance of reading, culture, and the value of manual skills in a changing world shaped by technology and AI. They reflect on art, taste, and what defines good judgment, whether in aesthetics, leadership, or politics. The Prince offers candid views on Europe’s decline, the rise of Asia, and the lessons to be learned from Switzerland’s pragmatic democracy.
Centuries of history and the realities of today come together: a personal and philosophical look at responsibility, culture, and what it means to live with purpose.
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras welcomes foreign policy analyst and educator Botond Feledy for a broad conversation about Europe’s political culture, leadership, identity, and the meaning of “the common good”.Long-time Brussels insider and co-worker of Jesuits, Botond shares his journey from studying law and international relations in France to launching Hungary’s first foreign policy magazine, working in the European Parliament, and later leading the Jesuit European Leadership Programme in Brussels.He reflects on how formative experiences such as his grandfather’s wartime stories and academic life in France and Germany shaped his perspective on Europe’s moral and institutional challenges. The discussion explores how Jesuit education helps reflection, self-leadership, and dialogue across differences, and why helping young professionals discern their own values may be key to building a more responsible generation of European leaders.Andras and Botond also discuss the philosophical foundations of leadership and respect, the long-term role of the Jesuits in European reconciliation, and the balance between efficiency and democracy in a world where autocracies challenge liberal values. They examine Europe’s vulnerability to disinformation, its struggle for a shared identity, and the tension between solidarity, national interest, and the pressures of global competition.The episode moves from personal history to geopolitics, from mentorship to moral philosophy, drawing a portrait of Europe as both fragile and resilient, and reminding listeners why playing the long game in democracy, education, and human values may be the only way forward.Botond's LinkedIn: / feledybotond European Leadership Programme: https://jesc-elp.eu/
In this episode, Andras welcomes Aurelien for an extraordinary first-hand account of how he and his family were evacuated from Israel on 7 Oct 2023 after the barbaric attacks of Hamas. His recount blends diplomacy, personal resilience, and how geopolitics affects personal lives.Aurelien shares how his path took him from journalism to advocacy work in Brussels, and how life as the spouse of an EU diplomat led his family ultimately to Jerusalem.He tells the story of the dramatic days surrounding 7 October 2023, when the Hamas attacks caught his family in Tel Aviv on holiday. Aurelien shares the confusion, fear, and difficult choices of protecting his children amid sirens, rocket alerts, and unfolding chaos. The conversation explores what it means to stay calm in crisis, the ethical dilemmas of evacuation, and the contrasting realities faced by diplomats, locals, and aid workers in a conflict zone.Andras and Aurelien discuss identity, responsibility, and the moral complexity of working for the EU in such a charged environment. They reflect on how macro-level politics collide with family life, what empathy looks like under pressure, and the invisible weight of leaving others behind. The episode captures the fragility of normal life when history breaks in, and how one man’s story reveals the personal cost of global events.linkedin.com/in/aureliendayde
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras welcomes violinist Anzhela Hovhannisyan and former Google staffer, future of work specialist David Timis for a deep conversation that covers AI, music, technology, and the search for meaning in work and life.Anzhela shares how she got from Armenia to Brussels, how music became her lifelong calling, and why cultural heritage and intuition shape every performance. David shares his insights he learned throughout his career at Google and now working as a future of work and AI expert on how technology is shaping our lives.Together, they explore what connects music and AI: storytelling, intuition, empathy, and the pursuit of meaning beyond efficiency.They discuss “talent stacks”, childhood influences, and how combining diverse skills creates unique careers.The conversation also touches on copyright challenges in the age of generative AI, the growing value of human-made art, and the importance of education in preparing younger generations for a rapidly changing future.This episode raises timely questions: What makes work truly meaningful? How do intuition, empathy, and taste set humans apart? And in a world where machines can create, why might imperfection and human presence become more valuable than ever?linkedin.com/in/anzhela-hovhannisyan/linkedin.com/in/davidtimis/
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras speaks with political analyst and commentator Julien Hoez for a discussion on French politics, the challenges of European integration, and the future of media.
Julien, founder of the political newsletter The French Dispatch, brings his experience as a consultant, Substack writer, and political advisor to discuss how national identity, ideology, and communication shape the political landscape.
They discuss how France manages its global diaspora, pressure on Emmanuel Macron and his politics, and the tension between political narratives and reality. Julien shares his take on what it means to represent progressive values without becoming partisan, and how historical awareness can help avoid shallow reactions to complex problems.
Andras and Julien look at how the digital media environment, constant reaction cycles, and the positioning of European politicians in a world shaped by shifting alliances and increasing public distrust.
This episode offers a pragmatic look at what drives public opinion and policy beyond slogans and surface-level takes. / julienhoez
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras talks with coach and communications specialist Helen Dunnett about values, emotional intelligence, and how better conversations can change everything.Helen shares her personal insights, how after her divorce and career transitions she discovered coaching and realised the power of self-awareness and listening. Together, they discuss why asking the “right” questions matters, how emotions are often misunderstood, and why understanding your true values can guide better choices in life and work.András and Helen talk about emotional drivers like perfectionism, people-pleasing, and the “hero” mindset, and discuss how recognising these patterns can free us from unhelpful habits. The conversation touches on conflict in the workplace, parenting, challenges of online communication, and the role of curiosity-driven dialogue in building trust.This episode offers practical insights and honest reflections on improving relationships with others and with ourselves, and why clarity on your values might be the most powerful tool you have. / helendunnett
In this episode, Andras sits down with author and speaker Rabbi Levi Smothkin for a conversation about his global best-seller book “Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe”. They discuss universal truths, human nature, agency, and finding meaning through adversity.Based in New York but speaking from Brussels, Levi discusses how we distilled 33 volumes of private letters written by one of the most influential Hasidic leaders of the 20th century into an inspiring and practical book that speaks to everyone.Levi shares how these letters, written decades ago to people from all walks of life, mirror the same inner struggles we face today: fear, anxiety, isolation, and the search for purpose. He reflects on how these teachings helped him out of a dark period, and how they offer not just religious insight, but a universal and deeply practical framework for resilience, healing, and growth.András and Levi explore how faith, instead of being a dogma but rather as the potential of the human soul, can reconnect us with meaning and with others. Levi explains how giving to others and aligning ourselves with the natural rhythm of “give and take” restores our emotional balance.When discussing the role and importance of rituals, they conclude that rootedness serve as an anchor for progress and how rediscovering our sense of agency helps reclaim our story after trauma.Through personal stories and reflections on grief, and the legacy of figures like Dr. Edith Eger, they talk about healing not by forgetting pain, but by transforming it into purpose and meaning. Whether it’s the experience of a former prisoner of war or the resilience of people who’ve lost loved ones, Levi emphasizes how choosing to live fully can also be an act of carrying others forward.Levi’s book can bought online at https://a.co/d/7rN0ct8
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras speaks with Roger Cohen, founding director of career coaching company OrientaEuro in Brussels, about career change, job search tips and how AI can support or hinder coaching.Having moved from a career in engineering and management to building a coaching company in Belgium, and why being fired pushed him to take that step. He explains how an engineer’s process mindset improved how they work with jobseekers, combining clear structures with flexibility so that each person’s career can improve.Andras and Roger also discuss the aspects of professional use of AI through its “AICCA” assistant to draft CVs and cover letters, suggest interview questions, map out career paths and identify skill gaps.Roger highlights the need to keep candidates and coaches in control, making sure AI-generated content remains authentic and aligned with the person’s profile. They also explore the challenges jobseekers face with automated recruitment filters, why Brussels’ skills mismatch is hard to close, and the importance of strategy when applying.This episode offers a practical look at building confidence and structure in job searches, using AI as a support tool, and focusing on clarity rather than shortcuts.Roger Cohen’s LinkedIn: / rogercohen
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras sits down with Gui Athia, lobbyist and corporate affairs expert, TEDx speaker, and author of Get the Memo. With a career spanning leadership roles at Nike, Renault, Alcatel, and beyond, Gui shares his journey from Brazilian boardrooms to the heart of European public affairs.They explore the themes of trust, values, intuition, integrity and governance, drawing on Gui’s experiences related to corporate culture, building trusted brands and walking the fine line between his own values and his professional accountability.Gui tells the story of his career choices, including walking away from a senior role based on his instinct and integrity, and why trust isn’t a given, instead it’s built deliberately through action, consistency, and clarity. He shares the framework behind his book and introduces the idea of “trust pillars” as a practical way to align one’s values with strategic outcomes.Andras and Gui also discuss the role of lobbying and corporate diplomacy, the limits of performance metrics in stakeholder engagement, and the challenges of navigating the modern ‘age of opinion’, where visibility is high, scrutiny is intense, and leadership requires moral clarity.Stories of the Brazilian Carnival sponsorships to World Cup diplomacy, from risk-taking to boardroom persuasion, this episode is a lesson in business management, ethical leadership, and the art of making the invisible notion of trust tangible.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/athia/
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras reconnects with longtime friend and diplomat turned academic, Zoltan Feher for a extensive conversation on Hungarian identity, global politics, and the shifting world order. From student activism in post-communist Hungary to working in diplomacy in Washington and Ankara, Zoltan reflects on the dreams of EU and NATO integration, the rise of China, and the complex triangle between the U.S., EU, and China.They explore how in a globalized world values like democracy, rule of law, and transatlantic solidarity are being tested to the brink of collapse and how their 1990s optimism gave way to a fragmented present. Zoltan also shares how academia, global affairs, and even personal risk-taking have shaped his view on courage, responsibility, and what it means to build a meaningful career in uncertain times.Dr. Zoltán Fehér is a Diplomat-Scholar, Geostrategist; Nonresident Fellow, Part of the Atlantic Council, A Global China Hub expert; Professional Lecturer & Visiting Scholar, Currently working at George Washington University.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoltan-feher/
In this episode, András is joined by two global experts in the communication world—Bonnie Caver, founder of Reputation Lighthouse and board member of the Global Alliance for PR, and Adrian Cropley, founder of the Centre for Strategic Communication Excellence. They meet in Brussels to discuss the real-world implications of artificial intelligence in communication, ethics, organizational culture, and leadership.Coming from opposite ends of the globe—Texas and Melbourne—they bring decades of strategic experience into an authentic and honest conversation about how AI is reshaping content creation, as well as organizations functions, make decisions, and re-define trust.They dig into the messy middle of AI implementation: why most organizations are doing it wrong, what it takes to align technology with brand values, and what gets lost when efficiency takes precedence over culture. Bonnie and Adrian also reveal the dangers of skipping the groundwork—bad inputs, generic outputs, and a creeping sameness across industries.This conversation goes beyond discussing the latest tools and instead tries to define the responsibilities that come with them.Whether you're a communication professional, leader, strategist, or just trying to understand where we’re all headed—this episode asks the hard questions and doesn’t shy away from complexity.Bonnie Caver: / bonniecaver Adrian Cropley: / cropleycommunications
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras sits down with Marie Terese, a former international opera singer turned voice and communication expert. Marie Terese brings over 20 years of experience from European opera houses and concert halls to help professionals find their authentic voice in business settings.From her early struggles with stuttering as a child to performing in eight languages across Europe, Marie Terese shares how singing became her path to confident communication. Bringing her years of performing experience, she developed her innovative and creative method, Ask your Voice ® that has reached all five continents.The conversation also goes into practical breathing techniques that form the foundation of powerful speaking. Marie Terese explains why most people don't breathe properly and demonstrates simple methods to center yourself before important presentations or meetings.Marie Terese draws parallels between performing opera characters and embodying your professional identity, whether you're a CEO, engineer, Secretary General, lawyer, EU representative, policy advisor or team leader. She addresses common challenges like the overuse of filler words ("um," "uh") and how younger professionals can find their voice in hierarchical settings as well as gender balance in team meetingsThe discussion touches on accent work and international communication, with Marie Terese explaining how she helps clients from all 27 EU countries as well as outside the EU to articulate clearly in English while maintaining their individual character.Marie Terese emphasizes that voice work goes beyond technical delivery, it's about building self-worth and confidence. She's currently writing two books: a children's story about finding your voice and a professional guide filled with client case studies from her international practice.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-ter...[…]ile_view_base_contact_details%3BZARfIGjfS9qYAF9bwiiKwg%3D%3DWebsite: www.askyourvoice.comEmail: info@askyourvoice.com
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras sits down with Laura Shields—media trainer, former broadcast journalist, and founder of Red Thread—to explore the stories we tell ourselves, and how those stories evolve when shaped by trauma, neurodivergence, and lived experience. Laura opens up about her journey from a high-pressure media career to building a business in Brussels, navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and dyspraxia along the way.The conversation ranges from geopolitics and 9/11 to generational trauma, psychedelic therapy, and the emotional cost of performance-driven careers. With warmth, wit, and striking honesty, Laura reflects on what it means to cope, to hope, and to reframe one’s identity through self-awareness and acceptance—without giving up the fight for better.LinkedIn: / laurashieldsmediatrainer Topics Covered:Laura’s unconventional path from CNN and BBC to Brussels entrepreneurshipPersonal reflections on trauma, 9/11, and the power of live mediaNeurodivergence explained: ADHD, dyspraxia, and how late diagnosis reframes identityThe intersection of mental health, resilience, and self-compassionWhy “healing” isn’t always the right word—and why that mattersBuilding a business that works with your brain, not against itOn storytelling, public speaking, and finding peace beyond the performanceGuest: Laura Shields – Founder of Red Thread | Media & Communication Trainer | Former CNN/BBC journalist | Advocate for neurodiversity and mental health awareness.Notable Quote: "I'm not ashamed of any of this stuff. I like the fact that my brain is different. I don’t think it’s better or worse—but I’m still getting to know it.”
–Laura Shieldsbe.linkedin.combe.linkedin.comLaura Shields - Red Thread EU | LinkedIn
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras sits down with fashion psychologist and branding expert Marleen Beevers for a close look into the clothing, self-image, and “Satisfashion”.They explore how fashion acts as both armor and self-expression, how we form impressions in seconds, and how clothing choices can reflect (or distort) our values and identities.They discuss how outward appearance with inner values can create not only more authentic professional presence but also greater personal clarity. Whether it’s a deliberate choice of color, fabric, or silhouette, style becomes a language we speak, often without realizing it.They discuss how branding, both personal and corporate, can either connect or mislead, and how self-knowledge is the foundation for consistency across our visual, verbal, and behavioral signals.Marleen shares how intuitive dressing, self-perception, and emotional granularity overlap. The conversation covers symbolic clothing, internal alignment, dopamine shopping, and the ethics of branding, all through the lens of personal leadership.www.satisfashion.style / marleen-beevers-612618161 IG : marleenbeeversSatisfashion book : https://satisfashion.eu/collections/all
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras sits down with Luc Gillis, a former lifetime EU official living a full life with visual impairment. His career at the European Commission spanned over 40 years, from switchboard operator to senior roles in HR and EU staff selection. Luc shares his perspective on how the EU institutions have professionalised over time, particularly in the field of human resources, and reflects on his own experience living with a visual impairment.They discuss:- The evolution of the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) and HR practices- Disability, ability, blindness vs. impairment, and using the right language- How digital tools and accessible design for visual challenges transformed his work and life- Why Luc opposes quotas but strongly supports equal opportunities- The importance of “reasonable accommodation” in both policy and attitude- Broader reflections on diversity, meritocracy, and being part of the EU project
In this episode of Beyond the Bubble, Andras welcomes communications consultant Jacques Foul for a rich conversation about identity, discipline, Artificial Intelligence, and the inner work of growth.From his early life attending a military boarding school and coming from a multicultural upbringing, Jacques had experiences studying in South Africa, France, and the U.S. He shares how structure, travel, and cross-cultural experiences have influenced his worldview. Andras explores Jacques’ use of AI as a tool for self-reflection and personal development and how asking deeper questions can help uncover deeper truths.They discuss personal agency, historical realities, how to avoid victimhood narratives, and how AI might become a catalyst for better introspection and storytelling.LinkedIn: / jacquesfoul
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Beyond the Bubble, András speaks with Elizabeth Krahulecz, a Brussels-based EU regulatory strategist, about the day her life changed forever — and how she transformed tragedy into strength.
Elisabeth was seriously injured in the 2016 Brussels Airport terrorist attack. She shares the harrowing details of that day, her physical and psychological recovery, and the long journey from survival to healing and joy. Along the way, we discuss transgenerational trauma, the stigma of invisible injuries, the pressure to “bounce back,” and what it truly means to rebuild a meaningful life.
Elizabeth Krahulecz is an EU regulatory and public policy strategist with over 20 years’ experience in government relations and strategic advisory. A former diplomat and Big 4 leader, she has helped shape impactful policy strategies across sectors including financial services, tech, and manufacturing.
She was awarded the Hungarian Gold Cross of Merit for her contributions to public service and diplomacy and now serves on the board of IOD Hungary, using her expertise to connect companies with policymakers and support sustainable growth.
LinkedIn:
In this episode, András speaks with Tom Meyers, osteopath, author, and body-centred stress expert. Tom shares his personal and professional journey—from burnout to developing The Reaset Approach—and explores what it means to stay resilient in body, mind, and spirit. We look into how stress, identity, and future readiness intersect, and how practices in both science and self-awareness can help us maintain balance in the “exponential age” to be more fitfull for the future.About the Guest:Tom Meyers is an osteopath (D.O., MSc. in Osteopathy) with a private practice in Brussels, specializing in stress-related disorders for nearly 20 years. His clinical experience led him to develop The Reaset Approach, which he has taught in Belgium, India, and Dubai. Beyond the treatment room, Tom is an author (*Futurize Yourself*, *The Futures Effect*) and an international speaker, having addressed more than 30 organizations and institutions worldwide. As *The Fitfull Futures Explorer*, Tom explores how to stay resilient—physically, mentally, and spiritually—amid rapid change. He speaks on topics such as health evolution, well-ageing, and longevity. Tom is also the Belgian Ambassador for Healthgevity Nation and an active member of the Association of Professional Futurists and the Professional Speakers Association, Belgium.
In this episode, Andras speaks with Alejandro Ribo Labastida — professor of European Studies, negotiation trainer, and explorer of culture, power, and self-awareness. Alejandro discusses institutional complexities of the EU, personal layers of identity, trust, and assumptions on how we negotiate and live together — as citizens, diplomats, neighbors, and humans.From Catalan identity and Spanish culture, to the role of "trust" and the "shadow of the future" in negotiations, Alejandro reveals how our values, behaviors, and assumptions shape both diplomacy and daily life. They also discuss first principles, “spiritual narcissism”, the role of institutions, and why the EU — and even your apartment building — rely on the same fragile infrastructure: shared trust and enforceable rules.X: [aribo](https://x.com/aribo)