In our first episode of Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the highs and lows of Biden's first term, Biden's policies in comparison to previous presidents and other leaders, as well as China -- its real estate sector, industrial and manufacturing industries, and its views on tech.
We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com.
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Econ 102 is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. To learn more: www.turpentine.co
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TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Episode Preview
(01:24) Overview of Biden's first term
(02:56) The most important thing Biden's done
(12:19) What are the chances of Trump returning?
(14:03) In the 1970s once again
(14:47) Woke concerns among Republicans
(15:38) Noah's ideal foreign policy
(17:46) Japan's importance in foreign policy
(19:29) Main foreign policy concerns in the next cycle
(20:30) The ideal containment strategy
(22:55) China
(26:23) Getting to 1 billion Americans as a foreign policy measure
(27:24) Real estate in China
(31:33) Comparing and contrasting Chinese and American industrial policy
(37:02) China's stomp on the IT industry to encourage manufacturing
(39:09) The difference in Chinese and American views of manufacturing
(43:18) Revitalizing American manufacturing
(46:08) The services industry
(48:03) A shortage of human truckers
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SPONSOR THIS PODCAST:
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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.
