Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Grounded State. In a world overflowing with headlines and instant commentary, this podcast takes a different approach—examining international affairs through the enduring lenses of history, political theory, and diplomacy. In this opening episode, Patrick Era introduces the mission and philosophy behind The Grounded State: understanding not only what happens in world politics, but why it happens. Join us as we lay the foundation for thoughtful, historically grounded conversations about the forces shaping our world.