In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the global influence of U.S. politics on Western countries, the persistence of Western civilization as a political unit, the synchronization of political interests via the internet, and the potential for significant right-wing and free speech shifts in Europe given increased American cultural influence. —

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the future of space colonization, touching on the implications of Mars and lunar settlements, the technological advancements driving space exploration, and how multi-planetary life might reshape human cultures, geopolitical dynamics, and economic structures. —

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss Curtis Yarvin's influence on government efficiency ideas, the pitfalls of gridlock and bureaucratic decay, and how transformative figures and strategic decision-making affect national and corporate success. —

Samo Burja discusses his "Great Founder Theory," in the Word of DaaS Podcast with Auren Hoffman, arguing that exceptional individuals throughout history have shaped civilization by creating influential institutions, while also exploring modern challenges around societal trust, fertility rates, and the changing dynamics between young and old generations in contemporary society. —

This week on Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the significance of desalination technology, its advancements, costs, and potential to transform scarcity in regions with water shortages, highlighting how countries like Israel, Singapore, and the Gulf monarchies have employed these technologies and speculating on the geopolitical and environmental impacts. —

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the impact of social media platforms like Twitter, now X, especially under Elon Musk's ownership. They explore the changing political landscape, the dynamics of media personalities, and the evolving role of social media in shaping public discourse and political behavior. —

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg the current situation in Syria, including the impact of President Assad's exile, the role of various factions and foreign powers, and the challenges of establishing a stable government amid ongoing conflict. —

Samo Burja and Rudyard Lynch explore global power shifts and the psychological impacts of modernity, drawing parallels between current societal changes and historical patterns from medieval times through the 1600s to analyze contemporary challenges in technology, surveillance, and social control. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/73c93dab-ae97-4cd1-af2b-e71406a6c16b  —

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the dynamics of populism in politics. They analyze its strengths, limitations, and impact on institutions, governments, and political strategies, with a deep dive into historical and contemporary examples, including Trump, Brexit, and Orban's Hungary. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/d47475a8-fe9e-44a1-aa34-83e0621c8f6a  —

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss how Trump's victory signals a new alliance between right-wing politics and tech industry leaders like Elon Musk, while exploring the challenges and opportunities of reforming government institutions through technological innovation. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/c1bed565-e2a0-4a82-bb0b-6bd36b8d673d  —

Today on Live Players, we're releasing an interview from Steve Hsu on the Manifold Podcast with Samo Burja. They unravel the complexities of our world, discussing China's rise, Europe's future, and industrial shifts. This episode delves into unique research methods, journalism challenges, and the dynamic ecosystem of Silicon Valley. They explored urbanization impacts, labor shortages, and the evolution of cultural and political movements, and the strategic roles of industry giants, the potential for retired tech experts in science, and the crossroads where intellectual life meets venture capital. —

This episode of Live Players centers on the alarming issue of declining fertility rates worldwide, examining specific country examples such as Japan, South Korea, and Turkey, and the societal and technological implications of these demographic changes.  Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg explore potential interventions, such as tax breaks for families, and the possibility of extreme measures like state-managed reproduction programs. They also tackle cultural and economic factors influencing fertility and the urgency of addressing this underpopulation crisis to prevent civilizational collapse.  —

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the unique role of Palladium Magazine as a non-profit that promotes intellectual and cultural community-building. They highlight the magazine's focus on 'governance futurism' and the importance of creating new and inspiring thought while remaining non-partisan. They also explore the concept of functional elites and the need to rejuvenate cultural and intellectual scenes, with specific examples from San Francisco's dynamic environment. They also cover the broader social and political implications of modern tech-centric culture and its potential future trajectories. —

In today's episode of Live Players, we're featuring a discussion between Samo Burja, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg about the inherent differences between civilizations and their impact on history and politics. They explore the parallels and distinctions between ancient civilizations like Babylon and modern entities like Silicon Valley, the influence of Abrahamic religions, and how societal patterns challenge our current understanding.  —

This week on Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg debate the merit and harms of globalization. They explore the implications of Peter Thiel's views on globalization potentially hindering innovation, and analyze the historical context and current impacts of globalization on innovation, trade, and political stability. They also discuss the resilience and adaptability of different economic policies, the role of regional industries, and the influence of technological advancements on global power dynamics. —

In this episode of Live Players, we're releasing a conversation between Nathan Labenz of the Cognitive Revolution Podcast and Samo Burja on the strategic dynamics of artificial intelligence through a geopolitical lens. They discuss AI's trajectory, the chip supply chain, US-China relations, and the challenges of AI safety and militarization. 

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja are joined by Ben Landau-Taylor, a Senior Analyst at Bismarck Analysis. Ben recently published an article in Palladium Magazine about the pervasive problem of fraud in academia. They discussed how fraudulent activities, particularly in medical research, often go undetected due to flawed peer review processes and institutional protectionism. They explore key cases, and possible solutions, including external watchdogs, intellectual authorities and regulatory bodies in maintaining academic integrity.

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja explore why mass immigration may not solve Europe's economic woes. They talk about cultural assimilation difficulties, political tensions, and potential long-term consequences for European societies. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja dive deep into the complex transformation of Eastern Europe since the fall of communism. They discuss the region's economic evolution from small business-driven economies to potential tech hubs, examine how countries like Poland balance traditional values with Western influences, and analyze the impact of EU integration. Samo offers predictions about Eastern Europe's economic growth, social changes, and geopolitical alignments, providing a comprehensive look at one of Europe's most dynamic regions and its place on the global stage. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja dive deep into the European Union. They examine the bloc's historical foundation centered on peace and economic prosperity, contrasting its ambitious goals with its current realities. They discuss EU's challenges, including a fragmented digital market, inconsistencies in labor and defense policies, and bureaucratic hurdles. They also explore Brexit's impact, the interplay between the EU and NATO, and the implications of energy policies, immigration, and the possibility of a European superstate.  — RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja tackle the pressing challenges for the next U.S. president, focusing on bureaucratic inefficiencies and the need for reform. They discuss foreign policy, including managing relations with China, reassessing military strategies, and fostering economic alliances. They also address the inefficiencies in the non-profit sector's handling of social services and suggest innovative solutions such as creating special economic zones to boost manufacturing. They cover energy policy, advocating for cost-effective nuclear power and shifting defense priorities toward affordable drone technology.  --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812 --- SPONSORS: Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox.

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg talk about why Brazil hasn't lived up to its expectations as a global powerhouse. Despite having immense natural resources, a large population, and a favorable geographic position, Brazil's industrialization has been stymied by high crime rates, severe corruption, and political dysfunction. They dig into Brazil's missed opportunities for industrialization and modernization, comparing its circumstances with other countries like China, Japan, and those in Africa and Latin America.   --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812 --- SPONSORS:

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss China's energy strategy and its broader geopolitical implications. Contrary to popular belief, China is not aggressively pursuing energy independence but remains reliant on imports despite significant domestic oil production. The conversation delves into China's geopolitical strategy, its military preparedness, and the potential consequences of a conflict over Taiwan. The episode also explores the broader implications of a potential U.S.-China industrial competition and the risks of a bipolar world. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812 --- SPONSORS: Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox.

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the enduring influence of cities on human civilization, exploring their role as the longest-lived human institutions and their impact on social and political structures. They also examine the common criticisms of modern cities like San Francisco, their political landscape and the legacy of Democratic and Republican policies. -- SPONSORS:

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg talk about the decline of Boeing. They discuss Boeing's recent troubles, including fatal crashes and maintenance problems, and how these issues reflect broader concerns about U.S. industrial and military capabilities. The conversation also covers the impact of globalization on Boeing's manufacturing processes, competition with Airbus and emerging Chinese aerospace companies, and the need for innovation and industrial discipline. This detailed analysis provides valuable insights into the challenges and future prospects of the U.S. aerospace sector. Please note there is a small error at the beginning of the discussion when Samo mixed up the 737 Max with 787 Dreamliner, but Samo's original analysis of the 737 Max crash is correct in his Bismarck Brief upon which this episode is based - check it out https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/the-decay-of-boeing -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV

In this episode of 'Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the intricate dynamics of Mexican drug cartels and their impact on both Mexico's political and economic landscape. The discussion delves deep into how drug revenues sustain elites, non-state actors, and insurgencies worldwide — with notable examples from the Taliban to Chechen rebels. They also discuss the potential threats posed by Mexico's porous border to U.S. national security, the global demand for drugs, the implications of drug legalization in first world countries, and the potential geopolitical shifts involving China and the U.S. --- SPONSOR: BEEHIIV Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox.

Today we're publishing a talk Samo Burja gave to The Stoa in 2020 all about how to find and advance uncrystallized fields of knowledge. In this discussion, Samo critiques current academia for its inefficiencies and proposes supporting new intellectual endeavors with proper economic and social incentives. The discussion covers the potential for new academic structures, the role of social scenes in fostering innovation, and the need for a genuine pursuit of knowledge versus mere intelligence signaling. At the end, Samo answers questions from the audience to go deeper into the themes of the talk. -- LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief:  https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ -- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:29) Samo's Insightful Talk on Finding the Frontier of Knowledge (01:11) Navigating the Landscape of Knowledge and Institutions (03:20) The Role of Crackpots in Advancing Knowledge (05:11) Practical Steps Towards Identifying and Advancing in Your Field (07:20) Evaluating Institutions and Communities for Knowledge Advancement (11:40) Interactive Q&A: Connecting Knowledge Frontiers with Live Players (15:00) Debating the Viability of Competing with Current Academia (20:30) The Role of Super Connectors in Knowledge Domains (24:42) Live Players' Paths to Acquiring Knowledge (28:39) Exploring the Intersection of Science and Spirituality (29:29) Reviving Scenes and Cultural Renaissance (32:26) The Potential of Intellectual and Cultural Frontiers (34:32) Scenius, Knowledge Synthesis, and the Future of Intellectual Communities (38:46) Navigating the Meta Crisis Through Games and Biology (41:43) Rethinking Knowledge Production and Distribution (52:31) Envisioning a New Model for Intellectual Excellence (54:32) Final Reflections on Intellectual Authority and Responsibility (56:29) Wrap

In this episode of Live Players, Rudyard Lynch (@whatifalthist on YouTube) interviews Samo Burja and covers a range of topics including why Samo left academia, the current state of education, the impact of bureaucratization and managerial ideology on society, and the state of democracy and legislation in modern Western societies. This conversation was taped in 2023. Subscribe to Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg's podcast History 102 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1730633913 --- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | HARMONIC Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox.

This episode features Erik and Samo's 2nd-ever interview for the Venture Stories podcast, an in-depth discussion of geopolitics, statecraft, and the study of society. It was recorded in 2019. They cover: how might cryptocurrencies increase centralized state power? What do our economic analyses miss when they do not look inside the inner workings of companies? How do media companies drive news narratives? ​​ Also discussed: Democracy, capitalism, and the Hong Kong protests. ​​Silicon Valley's startup culture as it contrasts with corporate culture as descended from IBM. ​​Free trade, domestic protectionism, and subsidy of foreign exports as trade strategies for developing nations: lessons from Japan, South Korea, and pre-1980s Iran. Kissinger's approach to geopolitics. Gorbachev and Deng Xiaoping, and Marxism's legacy. ​​​The political future of the European Union and the economic future of the Indian Ocean. Systems of immigration in France, Canada, the U.S., and Japan. ​Predictions for meaning-making in the modern era. --- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | HARMONIC Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox.

This week Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss India as a live player. They cover: India's demographics and the barriers it faces towards industrialization and wealth. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- SPONSOR: HARMONIC

This is a special re-airing of an episode Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg taped for Venture Stories (Village Global's podcast) in 2019 . Their conversation covers the following: the distinction between invention vs. adoption of technology. What a truly egalitarian society might like, and whether such a society can exist. How individuals' personal theories of history have influenced outcomes in the past, from the USSR's espionage of the Manhattan project to Christianity & the Roman elites. The U.S. government as an institution under Great Founder Theory, and its foreign policy in the 20th and 21st centuries. Lee Kuan Yew and Singapore, and Paul Kagame and Rwanda. Patronage as a social technology used by the Chinese Communist Party. To what extent China's social stability is dependent upon the promise of growth. Bureaucratic legibility as a key mechanism by which technology is a centralizing force. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- REFERENCED ARTICLES: “Functional Institutions are the Exception” https://samoburja.com/functional-institutions-are-the-exception/ “How Roman Emperors Handled the Succession Problem” https://samoburja.com/how-roman-emperors-handled-the-succession-problem/ “Intellectual Dark Matter” https://www.samoburja.com/intellectual-dark-matter/ --- SPONSOR: HARMONIC

Today we're dropping a special episode of History 102 with Rudyard Lynch (@Whatifalthist on YouTube). Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg delve into the critical moments and competing narratives of the fall of the Roman Empire. They compare the classical Greeks and Romans, identify key Roman figures and outsiders who impacted the course of history, and identify the major influences that shaped their era - and our current one. --- RELATED PODCAST: Subscribe to History 102 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- RECOMMENDED BOOKS: The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon The World of Late Antiquity: AD 150-750 (Library of World Civilization) by Peter Brown Empires and Barbarians: The Fall of Rome and the Birth of Europe by Peter Heather --- LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @whatifalthist (Rudyard) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction to History 102's The Fall of Rome (00:14) Context and Theories (03:11) The Rise of Rome: From Village to Empire (24:52) The Huns' Invasion and Its Impact (40:06) Post-Roman Empire: The Birth of New Civilizations (48:04) Reflecting on Rome's Legacy and Modern Comparisons (52:02) Recommended Reading

In this episode Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the current state and future state of America, China, Russia, Ukraine, energy, the US dollar, AI, Peter Zeihan, Balaji Srinivasan, and more. This episode was recorded in 2023 for the Upstream podcast - before the two started Live Players. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. -- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. -- SPONSOR: BRAVE Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. -- LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ -- Timestamps: (00:00) Episode preview (00:58) Who's right: Balaji, Zeihan, or Olson? (05:00) Why China's prospects aren't as bad as Zeihan thinks (07:28) What have we learned one year out after Ukraine? (11:15) Future of The U.S. dollar (13:11) Sponsor: Turpentine | Brave (13:10) Balaji's Bet (14:57) Future of America (19:20) Why Brazil hasn't panned out (21:00) Is AI communist and crypto libertarian (26:53) Evolution of elites (31:04) Comparing Elon and SBF (33:29) Economics of automation and AI (37:23) How intellectual culture has changed (45:07) America and China converging (47:27) Startup cities vs incumbents (50:14) Bismarck Analysis (52:56) Samo's upcoming research interests (55:04) Wrap

In this conversation, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss Alibaba after Jack Ma's exit and analyze the Chinese Economy. With 1.3 billion users and $135 billion in revenue, Alibaba is like China's version of PayPal, Amazon, and Walmart combined. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. __ This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. — SPONSOR: BRAVE   Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) What Happen to Alibaba after Jack Ma's Departure (00:44) Alibaba: From Revolutionary to Incumbent (16:06) Sponsor: Brave | Turpentine (17:53) Jack Ma's Influence (21:58) Who's In Charge in China (25:39) Pushing Away Jack Ma (31:50) Losing the Economic Advantage (42:24) China's Ambitions and Realities (47:56) Alibaba's Future (54:16) Wrap

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss how China's technological advancements in space exploration and quantum technology could change things around the world. They cover China's active pursuit of these advancements, not just for economic reasons, but to enhance its global influence and power. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. __ This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Sourcery by Molly O'Shea Sourcery by Molly O'Shea brings the conversations founders and investors have behind closed doors into the light. Subscribe for upcoming episodes with: Delian Asparouhov of Founders Fund and Varda Space, and Chris Power of Hadrian. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ni3Tese9CtZa3oxpCjgTg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SourceryVC/ — SPONSOR: BRAVE   Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) Diving Deep into China's Technological Ambitions (04:13) China's Space Endeavors: A Dual-Use Strategy (06:26) New Space Race: Commercial and Military Implications (10:49) Sponsor: Brave (12:34) Future of China's Space Exploration and Technological Advancements (28:35) Role of Private Sector in China's Space Industry (33:41) Evaluating China's Focus on Technological Innovation (46:01) Futuristic Governance and Technological Breakthroughs (50:50) Wrap __ This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg dive deep into how Xi Jinping is shaping China's society today and its place in the world. They discuss Xi's firm hold on power, his connections with different political groups, and how his decisions are affecting China's economy, military, and politics. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co/  — SPONSOR: BRAVE   Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:30) China's Political Landscape (01:22) Xi Jinping's Power Base (10:35) Impact of Xi Jinping's Leadership (15:55) SPONSOR: BRAVE (16:56) Future of China Under Xi Jinping's Successor (30:22) Private Enterprise in China (36:06) Xi Jinping's Legacy and Future Challenges (50:24) Future of China's Scientific Inquiry (51:34) Wrap __ This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We're launching new shows every week, and we're looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss tech stagnation, drawing from Peter Thiel and Tyler Cowen's theories on technological progress rates with energy consumption as a metric. They also delve into Y Combinator and Andreessen Horowitz's influence and potential futures amidst differing views on tech slowdown, and they touch on regulatory, cultural, and economic bottlenecks. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co/ We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: https://eriktorenberg.com/  — SPONSOR: BRAVE Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:35) What is Tech Stagnation? (03:20) Exiting the Great Stagnation (06:23) The Future is Already Here (But Not Evenly Distributed) (08:19) Sponsor - Brave (09:20) How Tech Culture Has Stagnated (17:38) On Industrial Jargon (22:50) The Importance of Clear Language in Tech (24:08) Energy Consumption in Tech Progress (27:23) The Critique of Energy Consumption as a Measure of Progress (29:04) The Great Stagnation Debate (31:01) Bottlenecks of Stagnation (37:10) Y Combinator and the Software Slowdown (47:26) The Future of Tech: Applying Software to Manufacturing (48:54) Wrap

In this episode Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss Tucker Carlson's interview with Vladimir Putin, the history behind the Russia-Ukraine war and the media's war propaganda machine. They also cover Poland's role within Europe, its political economy and emergence as a high-income nation, and nuclear weapons. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co/ - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj — We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: https://eriktorenberg.com/  — SPONOR: BRAVE Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction to Live Players (00:29) Putin's Perspective and Strategy (06:37) Putin's Historical and Cultural Arguments (16:23) Putin's Future Plans and Potential Outcomes (23:33) Sponsor: Brave (24:33) Poland's Political Economy Transformation (30:39) Political Economy of Poland: Success or Failure? (32:22) The Impact of Catholicism on Polish Nationalism (34:08) Poland's Economic Growth and Immigration Policies (35:20) The Decline of Catholicism and Cultural Convergence in Poland (35:41) Poland's Political Economy and the Future of its Society (37:53) Poland's Role within Europe and its Political Alliances (42:01) Poland's Economic Inequality and its Impact on Society (49:55) Poland's Energy Challenge and Potential Nuclear Weapons Development (54:21) Poland's Future: Staying in NATO but Leaving the European Union (55:39) The Propaganda Challenge Faced by Countries like Russia and Israel

In this episode Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss AstraZeneca, Novo Nordisk, and big pharma's dysfunction despite its enormous economic power, incentives behind scientific breakthroughs and the potential for improvement and changing the FDA's approval processes. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co/ — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj — New podcast: Thesis Driven Leader Series - Brad Hargreaves interviews the leading voices at the intersection of real estate, cities, innovation and technology. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thesis-driven-leader-series/id1724813949 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HY9OJ7WvoDzPaodgaHw6A Substack: https://www.thesisdriven.com/podcast — We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: https://eriktorenberg.com/. — SPONSOR: BRAVE Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to  https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) Discussion on AstraZeneca and Pharmaceutical Innovation (00:41) The Economic Giant: Pharmaceutical Industry (01:20) AstraZeneca's Market Capitalization and COVID-19 Vaccines (02:13) Strategies of Modern Pharmaceutical Giants (04:08) The Exception to the Industry: Novo Nordisk (06:31) Disconnects Between Profitability and Innovation (08:41) Market Failure in Pharmaceutical Industry (08:50) The Role of Patent System in Pharmaceutical Industry (15:17) The Need for Scientifically Minded Founders (30:34) Sponsor: Brave (31:34) The Role of FDA in Pharmaceutical Industry (39:16) The Impact of Managerial Approach on Pharmaceutical Industry (41:59) The Potential Impact of a Beauty Boom

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss Africa as the potential "next China," its corrupt governments, and Botswana's leadership example. They also touch on the Indian Ocean's geopolitical significance, what it means for the global Islamist movements and migration trends towards China, and the need for strong local governance to avoid pitfalls like civil war and kleptocracy. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://www.shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co/ - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj - We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: https://eriktorenberg.com/. — Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv — SPONSOR: Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://www.shopify.com/momentofzen — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Intro (00:25) A backdrop for what's happened in Africa over the past 20 years (05:26) Nigeria and Ethiopia: The benefits of continent scale without the drawbacks of politics resulting in civil war or dysfunction (08:30) How to make the new states of Africa become wealthy while respecting individuals and no genocide (10:00) Botswana as an example of a well-run presidential democracy (12:40) Diamond mining in Botswana and partnership with De Beers was good for the economy (15:20) Unpacking the impact of Nigeria's population growth on economic growth (22:24) Sponsor - Shopify (23:59) The bullish case for Africa rests more on the development projects of Ethiopia (33:50) How to make third world cities first world cities (35:44) Africa's importance in the broader geopolitical struggle among great powers (41:10) Lessons from South Africa's deep history in the last century (49:05) On countries becoming decolonized and independent and becoming sustainable (54:11) Africa is a vast enough continent where the challenges faced by the regions of Africa are very different (56:28) Wrap

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss US government spending, regulation, and the importance of strategic restructuring for improved efficiency. They cover the reasons why DARPA is a model for enhanced focus and efficiency in government teams, and discuss ways the US can address challenges like education and healthcare spending. They also touch on the feasibility and potential drawbacks of implementing UBI amidst concerns about political power dynamics and economic sustainability. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://www.shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj --- Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co/ --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: https://eriktorenberg.com/ --- SPONSOR: Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://www.shopify.com/momentofzen --- LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Intro (00:28) Deep Dive into DARPA (03:27) The Impact of DARPA on the Economy (06:02) The Future of DARPA and its Influence (10:43) The Effectiveness of Term Limits (12:19) The Autonomy and Flexibility of DARPA (23:41) Sponsor: Shopify (25:16) The Power and Limitations of the President (28:47) The Potential for Government Efficiency (32:57) Tackling Healthcare and Education Challenges (48:10) The Impact of Regulatory Capture (51:47) Closing Thoughts on Government Efficiency

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss China as America's mirror, how the prestige of American universities is waning while Chinese students are increasingly choosing to study within China, the role of gender in political divergence and what Chinese “woke” looks like, and how China's leadership is shifting to academia from businessmen. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: www.eriktorenberg.com --- SPONSOR SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ The Growing Power of China's Elite Universities: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/the-growing-power-of-chinas-elite — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) - Episode Preview (00:02:53) - Academia during The Cultural Revolution (00:08:36) - China's “woke” (00:11:15) - How Xi wants China to not fail in the same way the Soviets did (00:15:00) - Rise of student activism in the US (00:17:02) - The translation of regional/ethnic inequalities into ideological ones (00:20:54) - The political ideological paradox generates an opportunity to organize young people (00:26:28) - Chinese feminism (00:32:51) - Sponsor: Shopify (00:36:21) - Materialist focused education in China vs legal focused education in US (00:41:53) - Will American universities have as much power in the next 10 years as they do now? (00:45:00) - What positive and negative changes will China see in the near future? (00:48:30) - The shift in leadership from businessmen to academia in China

On this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the key aspects of succession for the Sulzberger family of the NYTimes, Samsung Lee family, and Sweden's Wallenberg family. They debate the values of dynastic succession and touch on modern examples like Botswana. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: www.eriktorenberg.com. --- SPONSOR SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:29) Dynasties and Succession (00:54) The Succession Problem and its Implications (01:31) The Decay of Merit-Based Systems (04:40) The Power of Familial Associations (05:26) The Influence of Dynasties in Everyday Contexts (06:00) The Transfer of Informal Aspects of Power (07:15) The Role of Marriage in Transferring Personal Reputation (07:45) The Influence of Parental Success on Children (12:16) The Dynasty behind The New York Times (21:00) Case study: Bostwana (26:35) Sponsor: Shopify (28:08) The Lee family behind Samsung (35:27) The Wallenberg Family in Sweden

In this episode of Live Players, Sam Burja and Erik Torenberg delve into an analysis of Singapore's post-colonial rise to power as a city state, how city states are more oriented towards prosperity than other kinds of states, and the transferable strategies of Singapore to other regions. They also discuss ways that Singapore can be diplomatically active in US-China relations, Singapore's succession problems, and their draconian approach to law enforcement. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- SPONSOR SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen --- LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:25) Singapore and how it achieved full prosperity after being a post-colonial state in the 20th century (04:50) Understanding the era of Singapore's ascent (11:31) The forks in the road to Singapore's prosperity (19:40) Singapore's awareness of their demographic problems and their aging society (21:33) Sponsor: Shopify (23:21) On Singapore's draconian approach to law enforcement and the economics of wasting space (28:48) What can the world copy from Singapore's strategies? (35:10) On Singapore food self-sufficiency (and the promotion of insect food) (37:56) How should Singapore respond to de-globalization (45:44) Samo's thoughts on Singapore in 2024 as a culturally East Asian country (49:59) Succession problems and keeping the family legacy (52:39) Wrap

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg delve into an analysis of Japan's multidimensional identity as a highly homogeneous ethno state, an economic powerhouse, and as a hub for innovation in tech & AI. They also cover its aging population, nuanced military stance, and nuclear ambitions. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. Note: This deep dive was recorded before the earthquake that struck western Japan on Jan 1, 2024. - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj --- Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com. --- SPONSOR SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:10) Intro (00:51) Japan's Role in Global Geopolitics (03:19) Japan's Aging Population and Economic Challenges (06:16) Japan's Work Culture and Economic Future (10:28) Sponsor: Shopify (12:04) Japan's Fertility Crisis and Potential Solutions (18:53) Japan's Technological Advancements and Economic Impact (41:12) Japan's Military Situation and Geopolitical Role (54:00) Japan's Future in Asia (57:41) Japan's Future Challenges

On this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the way we misunderstand or skew history. They cover the Bronze Age, Europe's Decline, Russia/Ukraine conflict, and more. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com. --- SPONSOR SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen — LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:50) Technological Backsliding in Civilizations (01:59) The Mystery of Greek Fire (04:24) The Late Bronze Age Collapse (11:03) The Impact of Civilizational Failure (11:17) Predicting Centralization and Decentralization (12:30) The Fall of the Soviet Union (18:00) Sponsor: Shopify (19:37) The Future of Europe (21:49) The Role of the United States (25:10) The Potential of a Federal Europe (27:20) The Digital Cold War (28:40) The Rise of AI in Europe (29:29) Key Players in Europe's AI Scene (29:38) The Role of Macron and Orban in Europe's AI Development (30:16) The Potential of Eastern European Countries (32:41) The Future of Western and Northern Europe (33:41) Understanding Orban's Policies (33:50) The Demographic Challenges in Eastern Europe (36:13) The Impact of Nationalism and Cultural Conceptions (41:02) The Russia-Ukraine Conflict (50:10) The Influence of Politics on Historical Understanding (56:08) Revisiting the History of North America

On today's episode of Live Players, Samo Burja, shares his theory of long history, suggesting complex societies in human history is much older than traditionally assumed. He and Erik Torenberg discuss the implications of understanding ancient societies in the broader context of human behavior, power structures, China, the US, and A.I. existential risk. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com. --- SPONSOR SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen --- LINKS: - Samo's article in Palladium Magazine: https://www.palladiummag.com/2021/05/17/why-civilization-is-older-than-we-thought/ - Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Intro (00:26) Samo explains what long history is (the idea that human history has been far longer than previously believed) (02:16) Why civilization is older than we thought (07:27) The response of historians and archeologists and revision of general theories (14:24) The implications of having a new understanding of history and why would it matter (21:16) Sponsor: Shopify (22:56) Why do civilizations rise and fall? (31:04) The Downfall of Advanced Civilizations (31:37) The Role of Mythology in Modern Society (35:01) The Impact of Social Technologies on Civilizations (37:44) The Similarities Between the US and China (43:31) The Risks of Population Decline (47:33) The Role of Fertility in Society (53:21) Fertility, feminism, and anti-feminism

On today's episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the legacy of Henry Kissinger. They define Kissinger's unique brand of international relations and evaluate his career through the lens of the current culture wars. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com. --- SPONSOR SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/momentofzen --- LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro  (00:54) Reflections on Kissinger's Career and Influence (02:15) Understanding Kissinger's Approach to World Order (06:43) Kissinger's Realism: A Deeper Look (09:30) Kissinger's Legacy and Influence on Modern Diplomacy (09:57) Applying Kissinger's Lens to Modern Foreign Policy (18:35) Sponsor: Shopify (23:44) Meritocracy (29:00) The Role of Academia in Shaping Statesmen (29:50) Simple Credos (32:00) The Nixon Tapes: A Historical Perspective (33:00) The Role of Meritocracy and Sameness in American System (34:00) The Struggles of India and the Influence of Lee Kuan Yew, former PM of Singapore (35:15) Critiques of Kissinger's Policies (42:45) The Blunt Realities of War and Politics (50:00) The Influence of Kissinger on Modern Foreign Policy

On today's episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg dive into all things nuclear. They cover the historical role of coal and oil in shaping global conflicts, the inevitability of nuclear proliferation, and the challenges of scaling nuclear energy. They also discuss the inevitability of nuclear weapons and Samo proposes a strategy to mitigate the risks associated. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com. --- SPONSOR: SECUREFRAME Secureframe: the only compliance automation platform with AI capabilities that help customers speed up cloud remediation and security questionnaires. Get 20% off your first year of Secureframe by mentioning "The Riff" during your free demo: https://secureframe.com/riff --- LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:55) How energy impacts geopolitics (02:43) Coal is extremely regional as an energy source (04:32) Oil is evenly distributed around the world (08:16) Fracking deconstrains energy (10:09) Nuclear enters the story in 1945 (16:38) When the great powers of the world limit nuclear proliferation. (18:14) Making nuclear energy affordable (21:27) Our energy needs are kind of trivial and we should be a nuclear civilization by now (23:30) Sponsor - Secureframe (24:28) Nuclear acceleration is inevitable (37:46) The US might as well reap the benefits from building cheap and abundant nuclear energy (47:34) Is the only way we get the abundance that comes with nuclear energy is to increase the risk of nuclear war? (55:02] On free export of nuclear technology across countries (57:27) Wrap

In the inaugural episode of the Live Players podcast, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg dive deep into the concept of a 'live player', a term coined by Samo. He explains a 'live player' as a person who steps away from societal norms, improvises and thinks from first principles, much like successful individuals such as Arnold Schwarzenegger. He emphasizes the importance of live players in driving societal transformation and preventing societal stagnation. They also compare and contrast three prominent live players: Peter Thiel, Sam Altman, and Elon Musk, and discuss their impacts, motivations, and differing views on societal change. Lastly, they evaluate philanthropists like George Soros, Bill Gates, and the Kochs, who transitioned from successful businessmen to major influencers in societal causes. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co --- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors (including Dan) sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don't have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we over better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com. --- SPONSOR: SECUREFRAME Secureframe: the only compliance automation platform with AI capabilities that help customers speed up cloud remediation and security questionnaires. Get 20% off your first year of Secureframe by mentioning "The Riff" during your free demo: https://secureframe.com/riff --- LINKS: Samo's Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction (00:08) Understanding the Concept of 'Live Players' (00:22) The Role of Conventions in Society (01:33) The Rarity of 'Live Players' and Their Impact (01:52) Arnold Schwarzenegger: A Live Player (03:21) Background of the Podcast Host (04:01) The Importance of Historical Knowledge (08:54) Reflections on Energy Transition (13:47) Discussion on Sam Altman and OpenAI (20:56) Comparing Live Players: Sam Altman, Elon Musk, and Peter Thiel (21:30) Sponsor: Secureframe (27:30) Understanding Different Perspectives on Capitalism (28:14) The Role of Live Players in Society (29:37) The Importance of Live Players in Innovation and Change (32:17) The Concept of a Live Players Academy (37:53) The Evolution of Live Players Over Time (42:20) The Transition from Capitalism to Philanthropy (50:31) The Paradox of Open Society Advocates