In the electrifying conclusion to Tom Bilyeu’s conversation with ex-CIA officer Andrew Bustamante, the lens widens to encompass today’s global flashpoints. Andrew applies his framework of power, leverage, and outcomes to the powder keg of present-day geopolitics. From Covid conspiracies and biological warfare, to the rise of China, the fate of the U.S. dollar, and the shifting allegiances shaping the 21st century, Andrew breaks down how world leaders really make decisions—far removed from conventional morality.
This part takes a deep dive into modern conflict zones including Russia-Ukraine, the Israel-Palestine crisis, and the West’s declining grip amid new authoritarian contenders. Tom and Andrew wrestle with the hard questions: Are chemical and biological weapons just another leverage tool? Why are democracies struggling while strongman regimes rise? And what does the America-first, leverage-maximizing approach actually look like in real time? Buckle in for a rapid-fire tour through the next era of global power, what it has to do with everyday life, and why understanding the "spy playbook" has never mattered more.
SHOWNOTES
41:06 South Africa, Racism, and the Realpolitik of Moral Authority
44:22 Mineral Rights, Intelligence, and Considering Long-Term Strategy
46:35 Gain of Function, Covid, and the Hard Truth About Bioweapons
52:21 Sacrifice and Power—Would Governments Trade Millions for Leverage?
56:29 The Powder Keg of 2024: India, Pakistan, Russia, Gaza, and Beyond
57:58 The End of American Supremacy and Rise of the New Power Bloc
60:11 Democracy vs. Strongman: The Global Leadership Struggle
62:19 Europe’s Identity Crisis: Allies, Dependency, and Internal Division
70:42 China’s Long Game, Rare Earths, and U.S. Manufacturing Dilemma
79:44 Porter's 5 Forces and The New Economic Wars
81:58 Iran’s Position, Proxy Wars, and Shifting Middle Eastern Power
86:24 Western Values: Will They Defend Them or Fade?
91:04 Trump’s Geopolitical Report Card and the Future of American Strategy
92:55 Where to Follow Andrew Bustamante
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