Welcome to The Astana Times!
The Astana Times, Kazakhstan’s leading English-language newspaper, has been serving readers for almost 13 years.
We are your go-to source for reliable news on Kazakhstan and the Central Asian region, including current affairs, business news, political developments, and tourism highlights.
Our channel is dedicated to showcasing the beauty, diversity, and rich cultural heritage of Kazakhstan, ensuring you stay informed about the latest developments in this vibrant country.
From Fahrenheit 451 to AI: A Struggle to Keep Thinking
This episode examines the parallels between Ray Bradbury's "Fahrenheit 451" and the impact of AI on independent thought, inspired by futurist Brett King's insights.
17 Nov 2025
I Met Netflix Co-Founder. Here’s What He Taught Me About Failure and Innovation | AT Reads to You
Aida Haidar recounts meeting Netflix co-founder Marc Randolph and shares his insights on embracing failure and rapidly testing ideas to foster innovation, especially when addressing real-world problems in this interview.
21 Aug 2025
Kazakhstan’s Creative Industry Boom | Why Art = Asset | The Astana Times Unplugged | EP4
Host Aigerim Yessenzhanova interviews Sandugash Beisenbekova, founder of ShyraQ Studio, about Kazakhstan's booming creative industry and the investment potential of handmade Kazakh rugs.
1 Jul 2025
Oil Won’t Last Forever: What’s Kazakhstan’s Plan B? The Astana Times Unplugged | EP3
Researcher Aruzhan Yesmagambetova discusses Kazakhstan's energy transition and economic diversification with hosts Aida Haidar and Assel Satubaldina, exploring the implications of moving away from fossil fuels in this interview.
6 Jun 2025
AIF 2025: Kazakhstan Doesn’t Just Host — It Shows Up
A correspondent from The Astana Times observes Kazakhstan's multi-vector diplomacy at the Astana International Forum 2025, highlighting its shift from image to tangible impact.
20 May 2025
Riding Creative Wave: What India Taught Me About Kazakhstan’s Untapped Power
At the WAVES Summit in Mumbai, Aida Haidar witnessed India’s booming creative economy firsthand.
Inspired by India’s vision to grow its creative sector to $50B by 2029, Aida reflected on Kazakhstan’s own rich storytelling potential. She believes Kazakhstan, with its deep traditions and emerging talent, holds an untapped cultural power waiting to be realized.
27 Mar 2025
More Than Singer: Why World Needs Dimash Now More Than Ever | AT Reads to You
In her latest column, Aida Haidar reflects on why Dimash Kudaibergen's presence in the world is more important than ever. While she admits she’s not a fan, she recognizes his God-given talent and unmatched vocal range—something no one can deny.
But Dimash is more than just an artist. His performances aren’t just about hitting impossible notes; they carry deep, powerful messages that feel organic, never forced. His authenticity shines through, making his music resonate far beyond the stage.
Aida writes that although she has never met or interviewed Dimash, she believes that who he is on stage reflects something greater—the resilience of the Kazakh people. A nation that has endured hardships but continues to move forward with strength, generosity, and grace, never allowing adversity to turn into bitterness.
20 Mar 2025
Rediscovering Nauryz, Traditions & Kazakh Identity | The Astana Times Unplugged | EP2
Kazakhstan celebrates Nauryz this week as a symbol of renewal, unity, and cultural heritage—but beyond the festivities, Nauryz raises deeper questions.In the second episode of The Astana Times Unplugged podcast, three journalists, colleagues and friends, sit down to explore what Nauryz means for them, what it reveals about being Kazakh today and whether identity is something we inherit or something we actively build.🔔 Join the conversation! Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe to The Astana Times channel.
4 Mar 2025
Sea of Solar Panels: Reflections on Renewable Energy from Abu Dhabi | The AT reads to you
Ever wondered how your favorite journalists sound when they bring their stories to life? Now, listen to select articles narrated by the Astana Times authors themselves.
29 Jan 2025
Superpower of Kazakhstan is Diplomacy | The Astana Times Unplugged | EP1
How can Kazakhstan navigate the complex world of global politics while maintaining its strategic independence?
In this episode, we explore Kazakhstan’s position as a middle power, its diplomatic strategies, and the challenges of balancing relationships with global superpowers.
Who has been a guest on The Astana Times
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Marc Randolph
Sandugash Beisenbekova
Aruzhan Yesmagambetova
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
366,101
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 30 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
6
Social presence
97
YouTube
86
Engagement
0
Host of The Astana Times?
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