James C. Pearce, Jeremy Morris and Jonny Tickle discuss where “real Russia” actually begins and ends, from Moscow’s outer districts to small towns and industrial suburbs. They explore how most Russians live in microdistricts and new housing complexes, balancing comfort and sameness amid quiet courtyards, chain stores and long commutes. The conversation touches on post-Soviet planning, car culture, social isolation and the quiet stability many residents prize over change. What emerges is a portrait of everyday Russia that is ordinary, modern and found more in the suburbs than on Red Square.

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