Colombia Calling - The English Voice in Colombia

In this episode, Dr. Gwen Burnyeat explores the fascinating relationship between horses, politics, and identity in Colombia, revealing how equestrian practices reflect broader social and political dynamics. Dr Gwen Burnyeat is Associate Professor in Anthropology and Development at Oxford University. The world of Colombian gaited horses, or cultura caballista (horse-riding culture), is often linked with uribismo, the right-wing identity associated with former president Álvaro Uribe Vélez. Ethnographic fieldwork in conflict-torn Antioquia reveals how horse-human practices of training, breeding, and competition cultivate orientations toward hierarchical authority, disciplined hypermasculinity, and control over land and living bodies. This occurs within histories of racialized regional identity, paramilitarism, and narco-culture. Read the full article: https://www.research.ed.ac.uk/en/publications/cultura-caballista-right-wing-political-identities-and-gaited-hor/
 
Tune in for this episode and the Colombia Briefing with Emily Hart.

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Richard McColl chats with Eric Tabone about his entrepreneurial journey in Colombia, the nuances of hiring across Latin America, and the cultural shifts in Bogota over the years. As a seasoned entrepreneur based in Colombia, Eric shares his experiences and insights from his journey to establish successful businesses in Latin America. Eric's latest venture, Nearshore Business Solutions, aims to bridge the gap between US companies and talent across Latin America. He emphasises the importance of hiring locally to create meaningful opportunities while also helping businesses tap into the rich talent pool in the region. "I started this company about two years ago... we help US companies hire across Latin America." As Eric continues to navigate the complexities of business and life in Colombia, his insights serve as a valuable reminder of the opportunities and challenges that come with being an entrepreneur in a vibrant and evolving market. For more on Eric's journey and to hear his thoughts on the future of Nearshore Business Solutions, check out the full episode.

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, freelance journalist Katharine Houreld discusses the complex involvement of Colombian mercenaries in the Sudan conflict, the regional and global power dynamics, and the human stories behind the headlines. Key topics include: The current conflict in Sudan and its origins. The involvement of Colombian mercenaries and their recruitment channels. Regional and international powers backing different sides in Sudan. The human stories of mercenaries and civilian victims. The role of external support and sanctions in prolonging the conflict. The impact of the conflict on neighboring countries and regional stability. The legal and moral questions surrounding mercenary participation in war. The future outlook for Sudan and the potential for resolution.

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Brian Murphy O'Neill shares the story of La Leyenda, a multi-stage mountain bike race in Colombia, celebrating its 10th anniversary. He discusses the race's growth, its role in promoting Colombia as an adventure tourism destination, and future plans including expansion into Aruba, Punta Cana, and on to Asia. The conversation shifts to future plans, focusing on the upcoming race scheduled for July 26-30, 2027, in Cali and the Valle del Cauca. Brian describes the excitement surrounding the event, stating, "Our team... it's always special to come back here." He highlights the unique cycling routes and the vibrant culture of Cali, which he believes offers an unparalleled experience for participants and spectators alike. https://www.la-leyenda.com

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Richard McColl interviews Simon Faulkner - Senior Lecturer of Academic Excellence at University College Birmingham - about the impact of natural disasters on Colombia's tourism industry, exploring recovery models, infrastructure challenges, and strategies for building resilient destinations. Key topics: Disaster management frameworks in tourism Impact of earthquakes on Colombian destinations Infrastructure challenges in Colombia's tourism sector Community involvement in recovery efforts Diversification of tourism products post-disaster 
Sustainable tourism development in Colombia. 
 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.