Episode 35: Nathan Thornburgh: Food, Politics & Storytelling
(C) Cengiz Yar
In our final episode for this season, we spoke with journalist, editor, and Roads & Kingdoms co-founder Nathan Thornburgh to explore the intersection of food, politics, migration, and identity. Drawing on his years as a foreign correspondent covering conflict and political change, Nathan reflects on the stories that exist beyond the headlines and why food became his preferred lens for understanding the world.
Together, we discuss journalism, war, immigration, nationalism, and the role of storytelling in shaping public understanding. We explore how migration reshapes culture, what food can reveal about identity, and why sharing a meal often offers insights that politics cannot. From the Caucasus to contemporary America, Nathan examines the human stories behind some of today's most divisive issues and explains how Roads & Kingdoms continues to create spaces for dialogue through food and hospitality.
At its heart, this conversation is about curiosity, connection, and the enduring power of food to help us better understand one another.
You can also follow Nathan at @nthornburgh or @roadsandkingdoms
You can get a sense of storytelling through dishes in this delicious recipe from Roads & Kingdoms, Ragù alla Bolognese.
Learn more about Nathan Thornburgh and Matt Gouldings work: