In this episode of the Big Time Talker podcast, Burke Allen speaks with award-winning author John Dragonetti about his book The Falcon and the Sheikh. John shares stories from his decades living in the Middle East, including his time in Cairo and Dubai during a period of major transformation in the region. The conversation explores the history behind Dubai’s development, the cultural and political dynamics of the Gulf, and John’s personal perspective on current events involving Iran and its neighboring states. This episode offers a fascinating look at the people, politics, and real-life experiences that shaped John’s writing and his view of the Middle East today.