"Live Players" with Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the current Iran conflict, how we got into this situation, and how the US can turn this into a winning moment and reindustrialize. Along the way they discuss rebuilding the US military to win the next war using start ups, the exit options for the current administration, and how to decrease the need for oil. — 00:00 Introduction 00:43 Energy independence and Iran 02:49 A brief history of how we got here 08:27 Oil as THE globalized good 24:26 The Options out of Iran 26:25 China’s smart moves 29:04 We are in an energy Crisis 32:09 Startups are needed to win the next wars 38:05 Using this war as a way to reindustrialize the US 40:30 US energy change recommendations — Bismark Analysis: https://www.bismarckanalysis.com/ https://twitter.com/samoburja https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg — Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details, please see https://a16z.com/disclosures . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss talent, immigration, culture, and what AI means for them, including novel talent hunting methods, what Denmark gets right, and more. — 00:00 Introduction 01:55 Economists & the Case for Immigration 07:01 Assimilation & Cultural Transformation 12:17 Democracy & Mass Immigration 16:08 The Denmark Model 20:07 The Skilled Immigration Debate 27:57 Optimal Population Size 33:23 AI, Automation & the Future of Labor 39:09 The Future of Immigration Politics 43:12 Peak Human Talent & the Idiocracy Question — Bismark Analysis: https://www.bismarckanalysis.com/ https://twitter.com/samoburja https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg — Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details, please see https://a16z.com/disclosures . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg explore ancient complex human society that likely predates agriculture and written history by thousands of years. They discuss ancient seafarers, violence in prehistory, how archaeology needs to change, how irreplaceable historical evidence is being lost, and more. — Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & Palladium Issue 19 03:30 Ancient Seafaring & Mariners at the Dawn of History 15:00 Native Americans & Pre-Clovis Settlements 20:37 Genomics & Violence in Prehistory 25:14 The Decay of Historical Knowledge & The Digital Dark Age 35:42 Reforming Archaeology for the Future 46:54 Closing thoughts — Palladium Magazine Issue 19: https://www.palladiummag.com/2025/11/17/palladium-19-long-history/ Bismark Analysis: https://www.bismarckanalysis.com/ x.com/samoburja x.com/eriktorenberg — Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details, please see https://a16z.com/disclosures . Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Buja and Erik Torenberg discuss the pivotal role of hardware in the advancement of AI, the strategic importance of semiconductor manufacturing, and the intricate geopolitical dynamics between the US, China, and Taiwan. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — SPONSORS: ☁️More than 41,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, the #1 cloud financial system bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, HR, into ONE proven platform. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine learning: https://netsuite.com/102 — LINKS: Bismarck Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: • The thesis is that hardware is crucial to winning the AI race because capital accumulation leads to more data gathering, which has been happening since before AI through platforms like social media, smartphones, and self-driving cars. • Two critical hardware aspects are data collection platforms (sensors, cameras, mapping) and computational infrastructure (data centers, chips), where proximity to chip manufacturing provides competitive advantages. • NVIDIA's dominance stems partly from founder Jensen Huang's Taiwanese-American background and personal relationships with TSMC leadership, creating what could be called a "Taiwan lobby" in Silicon Valley. • Taiwan's economic interests align with mainland China (half their manufacturing is there) while their political interests align with the US, creating strategic tensions. • Export controls on semiconductors to China came too late and actually incentivized China to develop their full semiconductor stack independently. • The US should create a special industrial zone near San Francisco with cheap energy, reduced regulations, and government funding to compete with China in chip manufacturing. • China no longer has cheap labor but rather very skilled, expensive labor, especially in coastal areas where wages can reach $100-200K annually. • A second-best option for the US would be building semiconductor manufacturing in Texas near existing infrastructure like Starbase. • The recommended strategy includes targeting allies' semiconductor companies for replacement, implementing talent acquisition programs, and using defense/national security arguments to justify the investment. • The US should start with purely American-made chips for sensitive government applications (NSA, CIA) as a national security imperative. • Co-locating chip fabs, data centers, and AI labs would create a powerful feedback loop where 15-minute drives replace 15-hour flights for collaboration. • On automation, AI will likely automate white-collar knowledge work first since digital activities are easier to train on than physical world tasks. • Automating knowledge work could lead to dangerous political consequences, as displaced white-collar workers might turn to activism and push for protectionist policies. • There's a risk that AI automation could lead to negative economic growth if it only automates 95% of white-collar work while leaving physical jobs intact. • The "laptop class" poses more political danger than physical workers because they have better tools for organizing and influencing policy. • Physical automation will likely require specialized companies for each domain (baristas, waiters, etc.) rather than general-purpose robots, leading to gradual economic growth. • On immigration, while top talent is desirable, roughly half of crucial industry leadership should be domestic citizens to ensure patriotic alignment with national interests. • Having homogeneous cultural groups within companies (speaking only Hindi, Mandarin, etc.) can create unfair advantages and isn't true meritocracy. • Immigration works best with diversity from many countries rather than concentration from single nations. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss geopolitical and societal complexities of the India-Pakistan conflict, examining the historical context, demographic challenges, military capabilities, and potential outcomes of the ongoing tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — SPONSORS: ☁️ More than 41,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, the #1 cloud financial system bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, HR, into ONE proven platform. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine learning: https://netsuite.com/102 — LINKS: India: Live Players Analysis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GbsYh2kx7Y Bismarck Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: • The India-Pakistan conflict is rooted in the partition of British India. • Both countries have significant military capabilities, including nuclear weapons. • India's large Muslim population poses internal stability challenges during conflicts. • Pakistan's military plays a crucial role in maintaining state cohesion. • The potential for a prolonged war could lead to significant domestic unrest in India. • China's involvement in the region complicates the geopolitical landscape. • The conflict is characterized by a cycle of sporadic fighting and ceasefires. • Misunderstandings about the precariousness of Pakistan's state legitimacy are common. • An expansionist war for India lacks a clear victory scenario. • The historical narratives of both countries shape their current political identities. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the potential industrial revolutions in history, particularly in the Roman Empire and Song Dynasty China, their technological advancements, economic factors, and the reasons these revolutions didn't reach full fruition. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — SPONSORS: ☁️ More than 41,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, the #1 cloud financial system bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, HR, into ONE proven platform. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine learning: https://netsuite.com/102 — LINKS: Las Medulas in Spain: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/803/ Monte Testaccio in Rome: https://www.historyskills.com/classroom/ancient-history/monte-testaccio/?srsltid=AfmBOoonzF0CVGKjzUFs46kkI9fZ-FVcBTDOMAVs8vtFcxH4iKcNx09f Bismarck Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss "failed industrial revolutions" throughout history that aren't as widely recognized as the modern Industrial Revolution. Contrary to the common belief of constant economic progress, human history has shown societies getting richer and then poorer in cycles. The Roman Empire experienced an industrial revolution different from our modern understanding. Roman slavery wasn't the reason they didn't industrialize further, as slaves became expensive in later periods. Water power was extensively utilized by Romans for milling flour, ironworks, sawing wood, and cutting marble at industrial scales. Romans employed sophisticated engineering, using aqueducts to transport water for power generation in various mechanical applications. Archaeological evidence reveals hundreds of sites where Romans harnessed water power through complex waterwheel systems. Romans understood the concept of using heat to generate motion, as demonstrated by Heron of Alexandria's steam engine experiment. The scale of Roman metal production was so vast it left detectable lead pollution signatures in Greenland ice cores. Monte Testaccio in Rome, an artificial hill composed entirely of broken pottery fragments, represents industrial-scale production of approximately 53 million amphoras. Romans mass-produced standardized items including pottery, glassware, statues, and military equipment with interchangeable parts. The Roman economy featured a sophisticated consumer market with a significant middle class that purchased mass-produced goods. This era is underappreciated partly because it's concerning that a society on an industrialization trajectory could be interrupted. Hollywood's portrayal of the era as merely "swords and sandals" fails to capture the advanced mechanical elements that would have appeared almost "steampunk" to modern eyes. Roman cities like Alexandria were not just centers of taxation but significant production hubs with globalized trade networks. The Roman Empire might have easily adopted more advanced steam power if they had needed to dig more coal, but their abundant wood and other fuel sources made it unnecessary. Song Dynasty China in the 12th century represents another advanced technological society that still fell to military challenges despite its innovations. Large-scale shipping over water appears to be a crucial prerequisite for industrialization in all these historical cases. Industrial revolutions may plateau when growth of non-technological factors (population, territory) fails to keep pace with technological advancement. The Hellenistic era (particularly Alexandria) is described as "the birthplace of modern science" and worthy of further discussion. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ Second Opinion: Join Christina Farr, Ash Zenooz and Luba Greenwood as they bring influential entrepreneurs, experts and investors into the ring for candid conversations at the frontlines of healthcare and digital health every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/second-opinion-with-christina-farr-ash-zenooz-md-luba/id1759267211 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SecondOpinionwithChristinaFarr — SPONSORS: ☁️ More than 41,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, the #1 cloud financial system bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, HR, into ONE proven platform. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine learning: https://netsuite.com/102 — LINKS: Two buttons meme: https://ih1.redbubble.net/image.2365085899.3351/st,small,507x507-pad,600x600,f8f8f8.jpg The Clash of Civilizations: https://www.amazon.com/Clash-Civilizations-Remaking-World-Order/dp/1451628978 Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Western civilization as a political unit continues to exist. The U.S. presidency significantly influences global politics. Cultural synchronization is evident across Western nations. Free speech is becoming a central issue in Europe. Political priorities in Europe are increasingly aligned with U.S. interests. Social media plays a crucial role in shaping political discourse. The concept of democracy in Europe is evolving. There is a growing demand for free speech in Europe. The internet's influence on free speech is undeniable. Political change in the U.S. impacts global political dynamics. European countries lack true sovereignty due to external influences. Client states like Canada and Europe have significant sway over US politics. The introduction of free speech in Europe may lead to a rightward shift in politics. Political identities in Europe are fluid and subject to change. There is a growing demand for change in European political priorities. Sovereignty requires both resource independence and a capable population. Cultural power is often a reflection of military strength. Admiration for military power influences cultural perceptions globally. The US's cultural dominance is tied to its military power and commercialized culture. The relationship between Europe and America is complex and evolving. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ More than 41,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, the #1 cloud financial system bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, HR, into ONE proven platform. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine learning: https://netsuite.com/102 — LINKS: Starship: https://www.spacex.com/vehicles/starship/ (Pirate Wars) Moon Should Be a State: https://www.piratewires.com/p/moon-should-be-a-state Artemis: https://www.nasa.gov/feature/artemis/ SLS: https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/space-launch-system/ Boom Supersonic: https://boomsupersonic.com/ Blue Origin: https://www.blueorigin.com/ Referenced Live Players episodes: The Turbulence of Boeing: Decline and Future Prospects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1pmCK6CrK4 The Technology That Can Reshape Nations (Desalination): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_gEHhSXECs Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Human civilization may become multi-planetary in the near future. Economic barriers to space travel are diminishing, making colonization feasible. International treaties on space may not hold as nations pursue territorial claims. The moon's resources could lead to a new space race among nations. Cultural identity on Mars will evolve differently from Earth due to environmental factors. Genetic engineering may be necessary for human adaptation to Mars. Martian societies may develop a sense of pride and distinct identity over generations. Life on Mars could resemble life on a submarine, fostering strong community bonds. The relationship between Earth and Martian colonies may mirror historical colonial dynamics. Martians may view Earthlings as privileged and less resilient. Martian communities will likely be isolated and self-sufficient. Cultural identity on Mars may evolve independently from Earth. Terraforming Mars could spark cultural debates among settlers. Technological advancements will shape the culture of space colonies. The moon may become an industrially important part of the solar system. Future Martian society will value hard work and frugality. Genetic adaptations may occur among humans living on different planets. The colonization of space could lead to a return of genetic diversity. AI could play a significant role in the future of space colonization. The solar system has vast resources that will be explored and utilized. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ More than 41,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, the #1 cloud financial system bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, HR, into ONE proven platform. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine learning: https://netsuite.com/102 🔐 Vanta automates security compliance and builds trust, helping companies streamline ISO, SOC 2, and AI framework certifications. Learn more at https://vanta.com/complex — LINKS: 'The Interview': Curtis Yarvin Says Democracy is Done (The New York Times): https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/18/magazine/curtis-yarvin-interview.html Curtis Yarvin on the End of American Democracy (Podcast): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcSil8NeQq8 Dwarkesh’s tweet: https://x.com/dwarkesh_sp/status/1881776987322376435 Samo’s Tweet: https://x.com/SamoBurja/status/1882525049003164147 Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Curtis Yarvin's influence on the tech right is significant. Natural selection does not apply to corporate functionality. Leadership is crucial for the adaptability of institutions. Government accountability is often lacking compared to corporate structures. The risks of government failure can be catastrophic. Innovation is stifled by bureaucratic gridlock. Democracy may not function effectively in a gridlocked system. Yarvin's vision includes anarcho-capitalist elements. Government spending can be inefficient and wasteful. Honesty about trade-offs in governance is essential. The one-child policy in China is a prime example of disastrous governance. Sweden's COVID policy was more effective than many Western approaches. Inefficient government can have astronomical costs on society. Political ideologies are often more aligned than they appear. Curtis Yarvin's ideas challenge conventional political thought. Intellectual diversity is crucial for a healthy discourse. Engaging with controversial thinkers can strengthen our understanding. The digital age offers new platforms for intellectual exchange. Societal progress requires harnessing the energies of the nation. Democracy is not the end of political evolution. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️World of DaaS with Auren Hoffman The podcast for all things tech, data, and VC. Cut through the noise, decode Silicon Valley shifts and expose master VC tactics – no fluff, no BS, just insights. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/20YzRoxX3wZbrn2cZDEZ4j Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/world-of-daas/id1570644971 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ More than 41,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, the #1 cloud financial system bringing accounting, financial management, inventory, HR, into ONE proven platform. Download the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine learning: https://netsuite.com/102 🔐 Vanta automates security compliance and builds trust, helping companies streamline ISO, SOC 2, and AI framework certifications. Learn more at https://vanta.com/complex 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod — LINKS: Great Founder Theory: https://samoburja.com/great-founder-theory/ Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @auren @worldofdaas @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Great founders create enduring institutions and systems that shape civilization's trajectory, not just through individual achievements but by establishing lasting frameworks like America's founding fathers or Bismarck's unification of Germany. Trust has eroded across most institutions since the 1950s, with only the military retaining significant public confidence, though business interactions remain surprisingly trusted in the US. Modern parents have become excessively protective, severely restricting children's independence and forcing youth culture to exist primarily online rather than in physical spaces. Global fertility rates are declining sharply across all societies, driven by factors like intensive parenting costs, delayed marriages, and career prioritization. Technology and longevity advances risk pushing parenthood too late in life, potentially disrupting important intergenerational connections and cultural transmission. Taking extended breaks from successful careers to read, reflect, and reset perspective is undervalued but crucial for leadership development and personal growth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSOR: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine — LINKS: The Untapped Potential of Desalination: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/the-untapped-potential-of-desalination 1957, 1978, 2005 Chicken Sizes diagram: https://compote.slate.com/images/4e407854-6360-4172-a85e-d7b8c64fd365.jpg?width=1200 Growth, efficiency, and yield of commercial broilers from 1957, 1978, and 2005: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579119385505 Live Players: Can China Power Its Rise?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOei7kZjuZU Live Players: The Possibility of Human Extinction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEQEMpxLnGA&t=42s Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Desalination technology has advanced significantly, making it a viable solution for water scarcity. Many countries, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, rely heavily on desalination for their water supply. The cost of desalination is relatively low, making it accessible for moderately developed countries. Global hunger is more about distribution than food production; we produce enough food for everyone. Desalination could transform deserts into green landscapes, enhancing the livability of arid regions. Geopolitical implications of desalination include potential shifts in power dynamics and national branding. Innovative projects could lead to significant economic development in countries with large desert areas. Technological advancements can change the natural geography of the world, making previously uninhabitable areas livable. Future technologies, such as solar mirrors, could enhance living conditions in extreme climates. The importance of outdoor spaces and greenery for human well-being cannot be underestimated. Re-engineering urban environments can significantly enhance human well-being. Water wars are unnecessary; technology can provide water abundance. Geopolitical tensions often stem from resource management disputes. China's food security is bolstered by technological advancements in agriculture. Climate change poses challenges, but industrial civilization can adapt. Electric vehicles are crucial for China's national security strategy. Automated farming and construction technologies can revolutionize industries. Exceptional talent is rare and should be actively recruited. The U.S. must focus on manufacturing capabilities in the semiconductor race against China. Innovative immigration strategies could attract top global talent. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🤲🏼 GiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable programs to try to find the ways to do the most good for your dollar. GiveWell has now spent over 17 years researching charitable organizations and only directs funding to a few of the HIGHEST-IMPACT opportunities they’ve found. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. (Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout to support our show.) 📑 Discover Carta, the innovative end-to-end accounting platform revolutionizing private fund management with streamlined operations and on-demand insights. Experience the new standard at carta.com/investors . — LINKS: Book: Hatching Twitter: A True Story of Money, Power, Friendship, and Betrayal: https://www.amazon.com/Hatching-Twitter-Story-Friendship-Betrayal/dp/1591847087 Google Paper: Attention Is All You Need: https://proceedings.neurips.cc/paper_files/paper/2017/file/3f5ee243547dee91fbd053c1c4a845aa-Paper.pdf Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Check out Modern Relationships , where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. Founders Fund's Delian Asparouhov and researcher Nadia Asparouhova kick off the series with an unfiltered conversation about their relationship evolution. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Peter Thiel's thoughts have significantly influenced tech philosophy. Twitter's evolution reflects broader societal changes in communication. Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter highlights the power of individual influence. Political polarization is exacerbated by social media dynamics. The future of politics may hinge on personal branding and media personalities. Censorship in the digital age poses challenges to free speech. Corporate culture increasingly intersects with political beliefs. Social media platforms are arenas for elite discourse. The First Amendment plays a crucial role in protecting online expression. Political rebranding is becoming more common in the social media landscape. There's a desire to open the digital frontier. Cultural attitudes towards technology have shifted over the years. Europe's aging population affects its political dynamism. The political economy in Europe is in need of reform. American innovation is often stifled by older generations' preferences. The left struggles to find its voice in a right-dominated media landscape. Emerging left-wing voices may arise from unexpected places. Generational shifts will influence political and cultural dynamics. The digital age allows for new forms of activism and expression. The future of left-wing culture may depend on new, charismatic leaders. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🤲🏼 GiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable programs to try to find the ways to do the most good for your dollar. GiveWell has now spent over 17 years researching charitable organizations and only directs funding to a few of the HIGHEST-IMPACT opportunities they’ve found. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. (Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout to support our show.) 📑 Discover Carta, the innovative end-to-end accounting platform revolutionizing private fund management with streamlined operations and on-demand insights. Experience the new standard at carta.com/investors . — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Check out Modern Relationships , where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. Founders Fund's Delian Asparouhov and researcher Nadia Asparouhova kick off the series with an unfiltered conversation about their relationship evolution. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Middle Eastern governments often struggle with instability due to ethnic and religious divisions. The Syrian civil war exemplifies the challenges of governance in the region. Assad's fall may not significantly alter the power dynamics in Syria. Kurdish autonomy is a critical factor in the future of Syria. Islamist groups pose a significant challenge to stability in the region. Turkey's ambitions in Syria complicate the geopolitical landscape. Demographic changes will impact the political future of Syria. Foreign support has not been effective in sustaining the Assad regime. The future of Syria is uncertain, with many factions vying for power. Israel and Turkey's conflicting interests will shape Syria's future. Nationalism is a simple legitimizing political formula. Arab nationalism struggles due to the lack of unified representation. Geopolitical challenges hinder the formation of a unified Arab state. Islamism has emerged as an alternative unifying ideology. Political projects can lose legitimacy through repeated failures. The Taliban's legitimacy is rooted in religious authority. Democracy can be a powerful legitimizing force, even in non-democratic systems. Supporting stable monarchies may be more effective than backing rebel groups. Africa's political landscape is influenced by tribal and clan structures. Demographic changes will significantly impact the future of the Middle East. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSOR: 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Whatifalthist YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/Whatifalthist — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @whatifalthist @turpentinemedia Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 — 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse . — SPONSOR: 📝Notion: Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at https://notion.com/upstreampod — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Unpack Pricing - Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 — 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse . — SPONSOR: 📝Notion: Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at https://notion.com/cognitiverevolution — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Unpack Pricing - Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Unpack Pricing - Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg -- SPONSORS: Weights & Biases Weave is a lightweight AI developer toolkit designed to simplify your LLM app development. With Weave, you can trace and debug input, metadata and output with just 2 lines of code. Make real progress on your LLM development and visit the following link to get started with Weave today: https://wandb.me/cr 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: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Manifold Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3zuFjXkJWBhQeNWYTaCdEX?si=cfe3d9c5c4f94932 — FOLLOW ON X: @hsu_steve @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (02:22) Discussion on Palladium Magazine (11:56) Insights on Bismarck Analysis (19:50) The role of technology and innovation (20:43) Sponsors: Weights & Biases | Brave (33:17) Effective altruism and rationalism (49:53) Global technological collaboration (50:29) China's strategic moves in tech (51:34) US and South Korea's strategic options (53:59) China's provincial strategies (55:25) China vs. South Korea in various industries (56:58) The Future of Europe and its challenges (01:15:08) Urbanization and its impact on fertility (01:27:15) Intellectual pursuits and modern challenges (01:37:37) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSOR: 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: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Who is Portugal For? by Vasco Queirós: https://www.palladiummag.com/2024/02/23/who-is-portugal-for/ The Long Now Foundation: https://longnow.org/ — FOLLOW ON X: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:29) Demographic challenges and fertility crisis (02:07) Global fertility trends and anomalies (07:50) The impact of modernity on fertility (14:04) Future population projections and concerns (16:52) Sponsor: Brave (17:56) Life expectancy and healthspan (22:42) Potential solutions and interventions (31:17) The implications of declining fertility rates (34:04) Urbanization and population shifts (36:19) The future of industrial society (38:57) AI and human extinction scenarios (41:51) Cultural and political dynamics of fertility (50:52) Innovative solutions to population decline (58:33) The ethics of genetic engineering (59:53) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️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. 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 🎙️Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie 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 — SPONSOR: 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: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Palladium Magazine: https://www.palladiummag.com/ Quit Your Job: https://www.palladiummag.com/2022/01/06/quit-your-job/ — FOLLOW ON X: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) The vision behind Palladium Magazine (00:45) Challenges and opportunities in intellectual projects (01:46) The role of Palladium in modern discourse (04:49) Governance futurism and technological change (14:51) The importance of functional elites (20:20) Reviving public discourse (24:29) Intellectual Renaissance in San Francisco (25:32) Silicon Valley's existential questions (26:47) The rise of performance art in tech (28:53) The cultural impact of social media influencers (31:06) San Francisco's resurgence post-covid (32:11) The new ethos of tech and housing (37:59) The role of legacy institutions and succession (41:44) The importance of writing for intellectual growth (43:10) Encouraging young intellectuals (45:41) Conclusion and future discussions Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️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 🎙️This Won't Last Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-wont-last-with-keith-rabois-kevin-ryan-logan/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast 🎙️Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie 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 — SPONSOR: 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: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Whatifalthist YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/Whatifalthist — FOLLOW ON X: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @whatifalthist @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:29) A deep dive into civilizational differences (03:11) The influence of Abrahamic religions (07:53) Classical vs. modern western civilization (12:21) The rise and fall of civilizations (16:59) Literacy and its impact on societies (20:30) Sponsor: Brave (26:20) Modern civilization and its roots (40:41) The future of religion and technology (52:21) Obscure civilizations and their impact (57:05) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️This Won't Last Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-wont-last-with-keith-rabois-kevin-ryan-logan/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast 🎙️Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie 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 — SPONSOR: 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. — FOLLOW: Samo Burja: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samo-burja Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamoBurja Erik Torenberg: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriktorenberg/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg — TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:28 The debate on globalization 02:21 Economic impacts of globalization 09:01 Historical context of global trade 16:26 Political implications of globalization 22:07 Future of globalization and political centralization 27:33 Sponsor: Brave 28:40 Potential scenarios for World War III 34:46 The rise of network states 44:42 Populism and immigration policies 49:46 Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast — SPONSOR: 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: The Cognitive Revolution Website: https://www.cognitiverevolution.ai Bismarck Analysis: https://www.bismarckanalysis.com/ Subscribe to the Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — FOLLOW: Nathan Labenz: Twitter (Podcast): https://twitter.com/cogrev_podcast Twitter (Nathan): https://twitter.com/labenz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlabenz/ Samo Burja: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samo-burja Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamoBurja — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:11) The evolution and Impact of AI (03:17) Scientific progress and AI (09:41) The role of AI scientists (11:57) Challenges in AI development (18:24) Sponsor: Brave (19:27) The economic impact of generative AI (23:49) The Cambrian Explosion of different definitions of intelligence (28:23) Strategic advice for national governments on AI (37:05) US-China economic competition (40:38) Other live players in the global AI landscape (41:34) The rise of Indian and European AI giants (44:51) The origins and implications of US-China AI Rivalry (46:57) The chip ban and its consequences (48:57) Strategies for US technological leadership (50:07) The role of ideological diversity in AI development (53:53) Avoiding the AI arms race (57:45) The future of AI: weaponization vs. peaceful applications (01:12:57) Open source and global coordination (01:13:56) Generative AI in personal workflows (01:17:33) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast — SPONSOR: 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: The Academic Culture of Fraud: https://www.palladiummag.com/2024/08/02/the-academic-culture-of-fraud/ Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Bismarck Analysis: https://www.bismarckanalysis.com/ — FOLLOW: Ben Landau-Taylor: Website: https://www.benlandautaylor.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-landau-taylor-19a00056/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/benlandautaylor Samo Burja: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samo-burja Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamoBurja Erik Torrenberg: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriktorenberg/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:32) Ben’s article: "The Academic Culture of Fraud" in Palladium magazine (03:36) Examples of fraudulent studies and researchers (Sylvain Lesné case) (05:29) Incentives and cultural factors enabling fraud (07:35) Historical context and modern academia (10:46) Scientific fraud and its consequences (12:48) Intellectual authority and legitimacy (19:50) Sponsor: Brave (26:49) External pressure on academia (28:52) Role of journalism and other institutions in exposing academic fraud (31:24) The need for external oversight in academia (32:12) The complex relationship between the government and academia (34:13) Proposals for scientific integrity (39:56) Challenges in science and bureaucracy (43:21) Nonprofit solutions for scientific fraud (49:42) Venture capital and scientific integrity (54:02) Overview of Bismarck Analysis and its work in strategic research & consulting (56:54) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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: 🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast --- SPONSORS: 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/torenberg 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: Subscribe to Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction (00:39) Challenges of European Immigration (00:41) Historical Context and Current Events (01:26) Integration and Multiculturalism (06:54) Labor Markets and Economic Impact (21:44) Questioning Immigration as a Solution (27:12) Sponsor: Babbel | Brave (29:40) Proposed Solutions and Predictions (41:38) Final Thoughts and Next Steps (48:56) Conclusion Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 PODCASTS: 🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast --- SPONSORS: 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/torenberg 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: Subscribe to Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) Diving into Eastern Europe (00:48) Old Europe vs. New Europe (02:06) Political and cultural divides (02:22) Nuclear energy and policy differences (03:37) Immigration policies and economic impact (05:41) Economic growth in Eastern Europe (07:41) Demographic challenges and migration (08:47) Western Europe's dependency on Eastern Europe (11:45) Taxation and business environment (15:07) Sponsors: Babbel | Brave (22:19) Small business and political landscape (24:04) Education and credentialism (27:46) Comparing nationalism and economic models in Europe (28:33) Generational shifts in Eastern Europe (29:46) Gender norms and education in Eastern Europe (34:46) Westernization and cultural convergence (36:59) Future economic and social trends in Eastern Europe (39:13) Influence of American ideology and media (53:08) Geopolitical dynamics and defense industry (55:14) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 PODCASTS: 🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast — SPONSORS: 💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist. 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at https://babbel.com/torenberg 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: Subscribe to Bismarck Brief - https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ The American Challenge: https://www.amazon.com/American-Challenge-Jean-Jacques-Servan-Schreiber/dp/0689102461 — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) The Origins and Goals of the EU (01:56) Economic Challenges and Market Scale (04:57) Digital and Labor Market Fragmentation (08:18) The Vision of a European Super State (12:54) European Defense and Foreign Policy (18:24) Scientific and Industrial Policy in the EU (23:56) SPONSORS: Babbel | Brave (26:21) Brexit: Expectations vs. Reality (30:22) Economic and Political Tensions in Europe (33:05) The Future of the EU: Scenarios and Predictions (35:26) Challenges of EU Expansion and Decision Making (36:54) Energy Policies and Geopolitical Implications (42:48) The Future of European Integration (44:55) The Role of Higher Education in Europe (51:41) Multiculturalism and Immigration in Europe (58:46) Thoughts on European Integration (59:49) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 PODCASTS: 🎙️ 1 to 100 | Hypergrowth Companies Worth Joining Every week we sit down with the founder of a hyper-growth company you should consider joining. Our goal is to give you the inside story behind breakout, early stage companies potentially worth betting your career on. This season, discover how the founders of Modal Labs, Clay, Mercor, and more built their products, cultures, and companies. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70NOWtWDY995C8qDqojxGw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762756034 - 📣 COMPLEX SYSTEMS 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. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/torenberg 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: Live Players | Brazil: A Country of the Future? - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6P7jFeNiAk&list=PLEG8Q6Fb-Gi1Vz-zb0Bvbj5zaeg7voiOP --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:29) Analyzing U.S. Political Challenges (00:50) Bureaucratic Breakdown in America (03:02) Potential for Reform and Presidential Impact (04:11) Comparing U.S. and International Politics (07:43) Left and Right Wing Reform Perspectives (13:17) Corruption and Nonprofit Sector Issues (16:31) SPONSORS: beehiiv | Babbel (19:01) Historical Patterns of U.S. Governance (25:24) Advise for the Next US President (28:37) Economic Decoupling from China (29:03) Nuclear Energy as a National Priority (32:54) SPONSOR: Brave (33:56) Foreign Policy: Russia, Ukraine and the Middle East (44:15) Restructuring the U.S. Air Force (46:07) Special Economic Zones in the U.S. (52:59) Building a Competitive Manufacturing Base (53:36) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 PODCASTS: 🎙️ 1 to 100 | Hypergrowth Companies Worth Joining Every week we sit down with the founder of a hyper-growth company you should consider joining. Our goal is to give you the inside story behind breakout, early stage companies potentially worth betting your career on. This season, discover how the founders of Modal Labs, Clay, Mercor, and more built their products, cultures, and companies. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70NOWtWDY995C8qDqojxGw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762756034 - 📣 COMPLEX SYSTEMS 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: 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/torenberg 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. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months 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: The Roots of Brazil’s Long Stagnation - https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/the-roots-of-brazils-long-stagnation Popular social media network in Brazil - Orkut FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) Brazil: A Country of Untapped Potential (00:51) Historical Context and Geopolitical Fundamentals (03:36) The Need for Industrialization (04:29) Corruption and Political Dysfunction (09:48) The Impact of Aging Demographics (13:30) Imagining Alternative Histories for Brazil (17:12) SPONSORS: Babbel | beehiiv (26:16) The BRICS Illusion (27:35) The Future of Brazil's Government (28:17) Technocratic Possibilities and Challenges (29:40) Imitating Western Governments without Understanding Functionality (30:30) Comparing Brazil to Other Nations (31:50) SPONSOR: Brave (37:35) Lessons for Other Countries (37:47) Imitating Western Governments (49:28) Brazil's Potential as a Superpower (51:49) Comparing Brazil to Other LatAm Countries (54:12) The Bull and Bear Case for Brazil (56:44) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv --- 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. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/torenberg --- REFERENCED ARTICLES: “China Isn’t Pursuing Energy Independence” https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/china-isnt-pursuing-energy-independence --- LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) China's Energy Strategy: Pursuit of Economic Growth over Energy Independence (01:53) The Potential of China's Domestic Oil Resources (05:14) China's Economic Priorities (05:59) China's Relationship with Iran and Russia (08:53) Why It’s Important for China to Achieve Resource Independence (12:27) Strategic Miscalculations and the Risk of Conflict with China (16:15) SPONSORS: Beehiiv | Babel (19:00) China's War Likelihood Perception (20:34) China's Military and Economic Strategy (25:56) Potential Conflicts in East Asia (28:52) The Role of Industrial Capacity in Modern Warfare (31:10) The United States' Strategic Dilemma with China (33:32) China's Military Preparations and Oil Resources (38:48) The Taiwan Conflict: Economic and Military Implications (48:20) Strategic Competition and the Future of Global Power (51:20) The Sustainability of a Bipolar World (55:13) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv -- SPONSORS: 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/torenberg -- LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ The City Makes the Civilization: https://www.palladiummag.com/2024/05/31/the-city-makes-the-civilization/ -- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:30) Enduring nature of cities (04:27) Misunderstandings about modern cities (06:33) Political dynamics in urban areas (13:50) Sponsor: Babbel (15:17) Charter cities and network states (23:12) Digital and physical interplay of cities (27:07) Future of urban development (36:59) Overhaul in government staffing (39:39) Refounding on industrial civilization (47:19) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv -- SPONSORS: 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. Go to https://beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months -- LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ The Decay of Boeing: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/the-decay-of-boeing -- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction (00:40) The Boeing 737 Crashes (03:09) Boeing's Market Position and Risks (18:10) Sponsors: Beehiiv (20:18) Boeing's Future (24:19) US Aerospace Decline (30:36) Lessons from Airbus (43:31) Bismarck Brief on the Decay of Boeing (47:05) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj --- 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. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months --- 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/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ “Mexico’s Drug Cartels Are Not Competitors to the State” https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/mexicos-drug-cartels-are-not-competitors --- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:29) The Mexican Cartels: A Deep Dive (01:09) Global Implications of Drug Revenues (04:45) Cartels vs. Government: A Complex Relationship (07:58) The Future of Mexican Cartels (11:25) US-Mexico Relations and Drug Policy (18:30) Sponsor: Beehiiv (19:41) Industrialization and Economic Diversification (28:45) Historical and Global Comparisons (34:25) Conclusion and Final Thoughts (41:44) Outro and Sponsor Messages Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj 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/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 -- 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj 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/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812 --- 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. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months 🧲 Learn why Craft, Bedrock, NEA and 100s more trust Harmonic’s data to source deals. Harmonic is the most complete startup database, finding new companies as soon as they incorporate and tracking them through IPO. Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine during your demo. --- LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Rudyard's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhatifAltHist --- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @whatifalthist (Rudyard) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:30) Diving Deep with Samo Burja: A Journey from Physics to Geopolitics (04:14) Exploring the Bureaucratization of Society and Its Impacts (06:00) The Multifaceted Minds of the Past (11:40) Decline of Creativity and Cultural Depth (13:45) Zero-Sum Game of Academia and Its Societal Consequences (15:57) Competing Visions for the West (18:56) Sponsors: Beehiiv | Harmonic (28:09) Rethinking Education and Embracing Functional Institutions (32:08) Exploring Human Nature and Decision Making (32:59) The Evolution of Socialism and the Impact of Redefining Terms (34:02) Challenging the Education System and Advocating for Intellectual Diversity (35:37) Historical Knowledge and Its Relevance Today (37:49) The Role of Intellectuals and Politicians in Shaping Society (41:06) Innovative Ideas for Political and Social Reform (57:24) Addressing the Crisis of Confidence in Future Societies (58:50) Envisioning a Path Forward: Calls for Action and Reflection (1:02:57) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months 🧲 Learn why Craft, Bedrock, NEA and 100s more trust Harmonic’s data to source deals. Harmonic is the most complete startup database, finding new companies as soon as they incorporate and tracking them through IPO. Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine during your demo. --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple --- LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:50) Exploring Alternatives to Democracy and the Rise of CEO-Driven Countries (02:03) The Complexities of Government Transparency and Military Interventions (02:57) Analyzing Authoritarian Elements in Societies and the Hong Kong Protests (07:25) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Harmonic (09:35) The Influence of Economic Growth and Technology on Global Politics (13:37) Silicon Valley vs. Corporate America: A Battle of Cultures (15:01) The Future of Media: Silicon Valley's Integration with East Coast Media (28:04) Navigating the Complexities of Progress and Environmental Sustainability (35:21) Lessons from Historical Civilizations to Avoid Modern Decline (39:06) The Evolution of Whistleblowers and Heterodoxy (39:57) Reforming Societies: Historical Insights (40:51) Marx's Legacy and Predictions for the Future (43:28) China's Rising Influence and Global Shifts (45:43) Europe's Political Stability and Economic Challenges (48:44) The Future of Globalization and Regional Blocks (51:59) Decentralization, Blockchain, and State Power (55:09) Sovereign Individuals and Legal Jurisdictions (58:26) Immigration Policies and Cultural Integration (1:02:27) Globalization vs. Localization: Future Scenarios (1:06:11) Addressing Global Challenges: Climate Change and AI (1:09:54) Religion's Role in the Future (1:14:45) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 🧲 Learn why Craft, Bedrock, NEA and 100s more trust Harmonic’s data to source deals. Harmonic is the most complete startup database, finding new companies as soon as they incorporate and tracking them through IPO. Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine during your demo. --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple --- LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) Diving Deep into India's Demographics and Future Prospects (04:07) The Economic and Social Implications of India's Aging Population (07:23) India's Talent and Labor Force in the Global Context (10:06) Institutional Barriers and Governance Challenges in India (14:15) The Geopolitical Landscape: India, China, and Global Dynamics (19:53) Sponsor: Harmonic (21:00) If You're Betting On India, You're Betting On a Multipolar World (27:16) India's Digital and Economic Strategy for the Future (32:20) Comparing India and China: Leadership and Economic Strategies (32:33) The Impact of Brain Drain and Language Proficiency (33:46) Globalization's Influence on Regional Economies (36:56) India's Potential Partnerships and Geopolitical Strategy (38:14) The Future of India: Recommendations and Challenges (45:14) India's Political Economy and the Need for Reform (52:41) Navigating Globalization: A Skeptical Perspective (57:37) India's Demographic Dynamics and Education System (59:55) India's Geopolitical Strategy (1:01:09) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 🧲 Learn why Craft, Bedrock, NEA and 100s more trust Harmonic’s data to source deals. Harmonic is the most complete startup database, finding new companies as soon as they incorporate and tracking them through IPO. Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine VC during your demo. --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple --- LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- FOLLOW US ON X: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @samoburja (Samo) @whatifalthist (Rudyard) @turpentinemedia (Turpentine) --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:11) Exploring Civilizations: Flourish, Decay, and the Immortal Society (02:44) The Role of Society and Institutions in Shaping Civilization (04:07) Understanding Human Nature and the Impact of Institutions (05:06) The Dynamics of Flourishing vs. Decaying Institutions (08:40) Great Founder Theory vs. Technological Determinism (09:54) Government Innovation and Cultural Shifts (14:50) Rethinking Democracy and Governance (19:26) Designing Cities for Outliers: A Controversial Idea (23:07) Egalitarianism, Status, and Happiness in Societies (23:11) Sponsor: Turpentine (31:43) Understanding Mimetic Desire and Social Dynamics (34:19) The Role of Egalitarianism and Social Hierarchies (36:22) Prioritizing Outliers for Societal Wealth and Innovation (39:35) Theories of History and Political Dynamics (51:43) Recommendation for U. S. Foreign Policy (56:20) Globalization vs. Innovation: Navigating the Future (58:20) Centralization vs. Decentralization in the Future Society (59:10) Succession, Fertility, and the Future of Societies (1:01:34) Closing Thoughts on Centralization and Innovation (1:02:29) Wrap Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. --- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple --- 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 --- SPONSOR: HARMONIC 🧲 Learn why Craft, Bedrock, NEA and 100s more trust Harmonic’s data to source deals. Harmonic is the most complete startup database, finding new companies as soon as they incorporate and tracking them through IPO. Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine VC during your demo. --- 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. -- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple -- 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 | BRAVE 🧲 Learn why Craft, Bedrock, NEA and 100s more trust Harmonic’s data to source deals. Harmonic is the most complete startup database, finding new companies as soon as they incorporate and tracking them through IPO. Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine VC during your demo. 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. __ RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Autopilot explores the adoption and rollout of AI in the industries that drive the economy and the dynamic founders bringing rapid change to slow-moving industries. From law, to hardware, to aviation, Will Summerlin interviews founders backed by Benchmark, Greylock, and more to learn how they're automating at the frontiers in entrenched industries. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YQZkKHN7EP2yWedAvSxBC?si=18377c69a2804333 Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/autopilot-with-will-summerlin/id1738163836. __ 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 | BRAVE 🧲 Learn why Craft, Bedrock, NEA and 100s more trust Harmonic’s data to source deals. Harmonic is the most complete startup database, finding new companies as soon as they incorporate and tracking them through IPO. Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine VC during your demo. 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 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.