Vaping Unplugged Podcast

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, we sit down with Peter Beckett from Clearing the Air to unpack a troubling claim shaking EU policymaking: that thousands of consumer responses to an EU consultation on taxing nicotine products are supposedly “fake.” An obscure NGO called Impact Unfiltered alleged that more than 18,000 consumer submissions were little more than tobacco industry manipulation — a claim the European Commission is reportedly taking seriously. But is there any evidence to back it up? Peter walks us through Clearing the Air’s investigation into these accusations, explaining why the claims don’t hold up, how GDPR protections were misrepresented as “anonymity,” and why equating shared language with industry coordination is a fundamental analytical failure. The conversation also digs into who Impact Unfiltered actually is, where the narrative originated, and why this matters far beyond a single consultation — especially with major EU tobacco and nicotine policy decisions looming, including tax reform, the revision of the Tobacco Products Directive, and a likely political showdown in the coming years. At stake is a basic democratic question: do consumer voices still count in EU policymaking — or can they be dismissed as “fake” when they become inconvenient? 🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen on all your favourite audio platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Deezer.

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, Michael Landl, Director of the World Vapers’ Alliance, sits down with Barnaby Page from E-Cig Intelligence — a former reporter who now provides deep analysis on global harm reduction and nicotine policy. Together, they unpack the findings of the fourth edition of E-Cig Intelligence’s ongoing survey of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), revealing how lawmakers across the EU perceive vaping, safer nicotine alternatives, and future regulation. They also take a closer look at COP11 — what happened behind the scenes, what it means for consumers, and how global conversations are shaping the European policy landscape. From shifting political attitudes to international debates, this episode offers a clear and honest look at where nicotine policy is heading next. 🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube or listen on all your favourite platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Deezer. 📲 Stay connected with the World Vapers’ Alliance: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: fb.com/wvalliance

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, our host Liza Katsiashvili, Director of Operations at the WVA, sits down with Timothy Andrews, Director of Consumer Issues at the Tholos Foundation and a leading partner of the initiative Prohibition Does Not Work. Together, they dive into the global trend of prohibition on safer nicotine products and unpack why these bans fail to reduce smoking rates. Instead, prohibition fuels illicit markets, undermines public health, and leaves consumers with fewer — and more dangerous — options. From country case studies to the bigger picture for harm reduction, Timothy and Liza explore how smarter, consumer-driven policies can save lives. 📲 Stay connected with the World Vapers’ Alliance: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: fb.com/wvalliance

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, our host and Director Michael Landl, Director of the World Vapers’ Alliance, sits down with Frederik Roeder, Managing Director of the Consumer Choice Center, to discuss the grim reality of vaping in Turkmenistan. Vaping, or the use of e-cigarettes, is banned in Turkmenistan due to a comprehensive anti-tobacco law that prohibits their sale, import, distribution, and use. While not officially published, this informal ban led to the disappearance of vape products from shelves in 2023, and attempting to bring them into the country can result in confiscation and potential fines or jail time. While smokers in the country face limited options and vapers face outright hostility, the World Health Organization only adds fuel to the fire by pushing prohibitionist narratives instead of supporting harm reduction. Michael and Fred unpack what this means for consumers, why the WHO continues to block life-saving alternatives, and what can be done to challenge this global double standard. 📢 Share your thoughts in the comments and join the fight for smarter regulation. 📲 Stay connected with the World Vapers’ Alliance in social media: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_allianceFacebook: fb.com/wvalliance

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, our host, Liza Katsiashvili, Director of Operations at the World Vapers’ Alliance, chats with Petr Horáček about the state of vaping in Czechia. The country has made real progress in embracing harm reduction, once seen as a frontrunner, but big challenges remain. They talk about the victories Czechia has already achieved, the policies that made it a leader in the past, and the roadblocks still standing in the way of better regulation. From lessons learned to what needs to change, this is a candid look at vaping in the heart of Europe. 📲 Stay connected with the World Vapers’ Alliance and join the fight for smarter regulation: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: fb.com/wvalliance

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, our host Liza Katsiashvili, Director of Operations at the World Vapers' Alliance, sits down with Peter Beckett from Clearing the Air to break down the latest tax hikes on vaping and other nicotine alternatives across the European Union.What’s behind the EU’s push for higher taxes? How will it impact adult consumers, public health, and the broader harm reduction movement? Is there still time to shift the conversation? From policy deep-dives to real-world consequences, this episode brings you the facts — unplugged and unfiltered. 👉 Learn more about Peter’s work and stay informed by visiting: https://clearingtheair.eu/en/ 📲 Stay connected with the World Vapers’ Alliance and join the fight for smarter regulation: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: fb.com/wvalliance

Germany has been at the heart of Europe’s harm reduction debate, but rising taxes and looming flavour bans are threatening its progress. In this episode, host Michael Landl speaks with Christian Tänzer, a vape shop owner from Cologne and a frontline witness to how these policies impact real people. The conversation dives into the consequences of Germany’s regulatory direction, the pressure on small businesses, and how these changes undermine efforts to help smokers quit. They also explore the broader implications for harm reduction across Europe, the role of consumer advocacy, and why Germany's choices matter beyond its borders. 🎧 If you care about evidence-based public health and the right to safer alternatives, this is an episode you can’t miss. For more updates and content, follow the World Vapers’ Alliance on all platforms: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: fb.com/wvalliance

The United Kingdom has long been considered a global benchmark for progressive harm reduction policies. But today, that reputation is under threat. In this episode, host Liza Katsiashvili speaks with Mark Oates, Director of WeVape UK, founder of the Snus Association, and one of the most vocal advocates for safer nicotine alternatives. The conversation dives into the UK’s changing approach to vaping, including the proposal of a nationwide flavour ban, its political motivations, and the real consequences it may bring for public health. They also explore broader regulatory trends, the role of consumer advocacy, and what this shift means not only for British vapers but for global harm reduction efforts as a whole. 🎧 If you care about evidence-based policy and the future of safer alternatives to smoking, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. For more updates and content, follow the World Vapers’ Alliance on all platforms: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: fb.com/wvalliance

Martin Cullip on the UK's Crackdown on THR! In this episode host Liza Katsiashvili speaks with British commentator and harm reduction advocate Martin Cullip about the UK's evolving stance on THR — and what it signals for global product control. They discuss looming tax hikes, potential flavor bans, and how the UK’s shift could undermine its once-progressive approach to harm reduction. Martin also unpacks the broader international context, including the role of the WHO and the FCTC in shaping misguided policies that may harm, rather than help health. 🎧 Tune in for a critical look at what's happening in the UK — and why it matters. 📲 Follow the World Vapers’ Alliance for more: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: fb.com/wvalliance

Why Do Well-Meaning Initiatives Sometimes Hurt the Very People They Aim to Help? In this episode of the Vaping Unplugged Podcast, we sit down with Shrey Madaan, an associate at the Consumer Choice Center in India and a dedicated advocate for consumer rights, to discuss the complex reality of vaping in India—from restrictive legislation to the pressing challenges faced by the Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) community today. Through real-life stories and policy missteps, we unpack how well-intentioned bans can backfire and why empowering personal choice and access to less harmful alternatives is essential to moving public health forward. 🎧 Hit play to rethink what progress really looks like. Follow the Consumer Choice Center Instagram: Instagram.com/ConsumerChoiceC Twitter: x.com/ConsumerChoiceC Follow World Vapers' Alliance and stay tuned for the next episode: Twitter: x.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: instagram.com/vapers_alliance TikTok: tiktok.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: fb.com/wvalliance

Why do well-meaning policies sometimes hurt the very people they aim to protect? In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, we sit down with Elizabeth Hicks - U.S. Affairs Analyst at Consumer Choice Center to explore how harm reduction offers a smarter, more compassionate alternative to outright bans. From real-life stories to policy missteps, we discuss Why bans often backfire The power of personal choice How to make public health actually work for people. Hit play to rethink what progress really looks like. This is Vaping Unplugged Podcast with the World Vapers' Alliance - Everything you need to know about vaping and tobacco harm reduction advocacy. Follow World Vapers' Alliance and stay tuned for the next episode: Twitter: https://twitter.com/vapers_alliance Instagram: https://instagram.com/vapers_alliance Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ WVAlliance

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, we're joined by the one and only Ivan Bik, aka Vaping Bik – a renowned podcaster and outspoken advocate for harm reduction. Ivan brings his signature energy and insight as we dive into the current state of vaping in the Netherlands.What’s happening with Dutch vape laws? How are consumers reacting to flavor bans? What does the future look like for harm reduction in the Netherlands?From political debates to public misperceptions, we cover it all — raw, real, and unplugged.Whether you're a passionate vaper, a harm reduction advocate, or just curious about global vaping policies, this episode is a must-listen.For more content follow Bik’s Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@VapingBikThis is Vaping Unplugged Podcast with the World Vapers' Alliance - Everything you need to know about vaping and tobacco harm reduction advocacy.Follow World Vapers' Alliance and stay tuned for the next episode:Twitter: https://twitter.com/vapers_allianceInstagram: https://instagram.com/vapers_allianceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WVAlliance

Bulgaria is at a crossroads. With the highest smoking rate in the EU at 37%, the country is now considering a total ban on vaping products—a decision that could have catastrophic consequences for public health.In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, we dive into the alarming situation in Bulgaria and the fight to stop this misguided prohibition. We’ve launched the "Stop The Ban" campaign to educate policymakers and the public on the life-saving potential of vaping. Prohibition has never worked, and this ban risks pushing smokers and vapers back to deadly cigarettes or dangerous black-market alternatives.Joining us is Elina Ivanova-Atanassov, a devoted vaping activist who has been on the frontlines of this battle. She shares insights into the political climate, the myths driving this ban, and what we can do to defend harm reduction and fight for our right to safer alternatives.This is Vaping Unplugged Podcast with the World Vapers' Alliance - Everything you need to know about vaping and tobacco harm reduction advocacy.Follow World Vapers' Alliance and stay tuned for the next episode:Twitter: https://twitter.com/vapers_allianceInstagram: https://instagram.com/vapers_allianceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WVAlliance

In the latest episode of Vaping Unplugged, we welcome Barnaby Page, Editorial Director at ECigIntelligence, to discuss the latest vaping research and what it means for consumers, regulators, and harm reduction advocates.Barnaby has been at the forefront of vaping industry analysis since joining ECigIntelligence in 2014 as one of its first employees. With a distinguished 30-year career as a journalist and editor, he has worked across Canada, the US, the Middle East, and the UK, covering industries from technology to advertising. His editorial expertise ensures that ECigIntelligence maintains high standards of accuracy and relevance, particularly in science-related topics. He is also a member of the Association of British Science Writers.In this episode, Barnaby breaks down the latest vaping studies, examining their methodology, findings, and impact on public perception and policy. From concerns about youth vaping and nicotine dependence to potential benefits for smoking cessation, we explore how scientific research shapes the ongoing debate on vaping.Key studies discussed:🔍 BMJ Open – Perceptions of nicotine among young people - https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/15/1/e092380.long 🔍 ScienceDirect – Substance use patterns and vaping - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460324002922?ref=cra_js_challenge&fr=RR-1 🔍 JAMA Network – Health outcomes linked to e-cigarettes - https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2829358 🔍 Wiley – Smoking cessation and vaping - https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/add.16756This is Vaping Unplugged Podcast with the World Vapers' Alliance - Everything you need to know about vaping and tobacco harm reduction advocacy.Follow World Vapers' Alliance and stay tuned for the next episode:Twitter: https://twitter.com/vapers_allianceInstagram: https://instagram.com/vapers_allianceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WVAlliance

In this compelling episode of the World Vapers’ Alliance Podcast, we take a deep dive into the ongoing challenges and opportunities for tobacco harm reduction (THR) in Brazil. Our guest, Alessandra Bastos Soares, a renowned pharmacist, former Director of ANVISA (Brazil’s Health Regulatory Agency), and co-founder of BS Assess Regulatory Consultancy, shares her expert insights on the prohibition of vaping in Brazil and the stigma that surrounds it.This episode will shed light on the need for sensible regulations, the fight against stigma, and the potential for vaping to save lives in Brazil. Whether you’re a consumer, advocate, or policymaker, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!This is Vaping Unplugged Podcast with the World Vapers' Alliance - Everything you need to know about vaping and tobacco harm reduction advocacy.Follow World Vapers' Alliance and stay tuned for the next episode:Twitter: https://twitter.com/vapers_allianceInstagram: https://instagram.com/vapers_allianceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WVAlliance

In this episode of Vaping Unplugged, we’re joined by David Clement, the North American Affairs Manager at the Consumer Choice Center. David brings a wealth of expertise in policy analysis and consumer advocacy. His insights have been featured on the CBC, Global News, The Toronto Star, and other major Canadian media outlets.David sheds light on Ottawa’s new regulations, exploring why these policies may be counterproductive for public health and harm reduction efforts. Drawing from his recent article, we discuss the potential unintended consequences of restricting nicotine pouch strength and how such measures could hinder smokers from transitioning to less harmful alternatives.Article: https://consumerchoicecenter.org/ottawas-new-nicotine-pouch-rules-are-counterproductive/This is Vaping Unplugged Podcast with the World Vapers' Alliance - Everything you need to know about vaping and tobacco harm reduction advocacy.Follow World Vapers' Alliance and stay tuned for the next episode:Twitter: https://twitter.com/vapers_allianceInstagram: https://instagram.com/vapers_allianceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WVAlliance

Join us for an insightful episode of Vaping Unplugged hosted by Liza Katsiashvili, Director of operations of the World Vapers’ Alliance. This time, we explore Sweden’s groundbreaking success in achieving its smoke-free goal with two incredible guests:👉 Stefan Mathisson: Founder and Editor of Vejpkollen, Sweden’s premier news portal and blog covering vaping trends, regulations, and advocacy. Stefan shares insights into Sweden’s unique approach to harm reduction and its impact on public health.👉 Federico N. Fernández: CEO of We Are Innovation, a global network of think tanks and NGOs championing innovative solutions to global challenges. Federico brings his expertise in policy advocacy and discusses how Sweden’s model can inspire global change.This is Vaping Unplugged Podcast with the World Vapers' Alliance - Everything you need to know about vaping and tobacco harm reduction advocacy.Follow World Vapers' Alliance and stay tuned for the next episode:Twitter: https://twitter.com/vapers_allianceInstagram: https://instagram.com/vapers_allianceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WVAlliance