Welcome to a special edition of Lunch with Shelley! This time, we had the honour of sitting down with an extraordinary guest, Ambassador Audra Plepyte, at the historic Lithuanian Embassy in Washington D.C. Ambassador Plepyte isn’t just Lithuania’s representative in the United States; she’s also a trailblazer as the country’s first female ambassador to America and a distinguished diplomat with over 30 years of experience. Get ready to join us for a fascinating conversation that will take you from Soviet-era Vilnius to Lithuania’s vibrant modern culture—all over a meal that’s as rich in flavour as the dialogue.
Meet Ambassador Audra Plepyte
Ambassador Plepyte embodies diplomacy at its finest. Her three-decade-long career includes a host of influential roles within Lithuania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She’s tackled both bilateral and multilateral issues, headed key departments like the European Union and Personnel divisions, and even led international missions focused on conflict prevention. Beyond Lithuania, she’s represented her country as ambassador to Spain and the World Tourism Organization. Now, Ambassador Plepyte is breaking new ground as Lithuania’s envoy to both the United States and the United Mexican States.
Her poise and expertise are evident, but what truly stands out is her passion for her work and the causes she champions. Over lunch, she shared deeply personal stories of her childhood in Vilnius and her perspectives on freedom, hope, and the evolving spirit of Lithuania.
Growing Up in Soviet-Era Vilnius
Our conversation began with a glimpse into Ambassador Plepyte’s upbringing in Vilnius during the years of Soviet control—an era plagued by limitations but also marked by resilience. For her and many others, the United States symbolised freedom and hope, a beacon of optimism in difficult times. Those years fuelled her dedication to Lithuania’s sovereignty and its place on the global stage.
Hearing her talk about those experiences gave us a fresh appreciation for how far Lithuania has come. It’s clear that her background shaped not only her career but also her belief in the importance of openness, progress, and fostering connections across borders.
Lithuania Today: A Land of Youth, Modernity, and Warmth
Ambassador Plepyte painted a captivating picture of her homeland today. Lithuania has transformed into a welcoming, forward-looking nation with a thriving and happy young population. This modernity is balanced by a deep respect for history and tradition, making the country an exciting and grounded place to visit.
From cutting-edge technology to rich cultural festivals, Lithuania embraces the future while holding onto the values of its past. It’s young, innovative, and alive with creativity—a reflection, perhaps, of the energy and optimism that Ambassador Plepyte exudes herself.
A Lunch to Savour at the Lithuanian Embassy
Our dining experience matched the vibrancy of our conversation. Held at the Lithuanian Embassy, which is celebrating its 100th year in its stunning Washington location, the meal was a celebration of taste and tradition.
The spread featured delicious salmon, freshly baked bagels, and an assortment of Lithuanian cheeses that added a uniquely Baltic flair. Desserts were no less remarkable, offering a perfect sweet note to match the warmth of our host. Every bite told a story of culture and heritage, adding another layer to the delightful afternoon.
The Embassy itself is a testament to history and resilience, standing tall as a symbol of Lithuania’s enduring presence on the world stage. This setting couldn’t have been more fitting for such an inspiring and enjoyable conversation.
Join the Conversation
This episode is packed with stories of hope, resilience, and progress. From diplomacy and freedom to music, history, and, of course, food, there’s so much to take in. Whether you’re curious about Ambassador Plepyte’s incredible career, Lithuania’s evolving identity, or just looking for a great lunch recommendation, this one’s for you.
Check out this episode on Lunch With Shelley or wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. And as always, Peace, Love, and Lunch!
