Maggie sits down with Ambassador Cynthia Efird, a 40-year veteran Foreign Service Officer, for a fascinating conversation about the often-overlooked impact of diplomacy. From an unexpected encounter with rapper 50 Cent in Angola to the critical role U.S. embassies play as global early warning systems, Efird brings diplomacy to life with vivid storytelling and deep insight. She explains how soft power—through aid, advocacy, and cultural exchange—advances American interests, promotes human rights, and fosters global stability. In a world of rising tensions, Efird makes a strong case: diplomacy isn’t just powerful—it’s essential, effective, and remarkably cost-efficient.

The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!