Dave Collum, a Cornell University organic chemistry professor, joins James Howard Kunstler, a writer and podcast host known for his social commentary. They dive into Trump’s polarizing comments on foreign policy and explore the alarming decline in birth rates. The duo critiques the financial system, likening it to a Ponzi scheme, while discussing the implications of private equity and digital currencies like Bitcoin. They also reflect on urban development's challenges and society's growing reliance on pharmaceuticals, all while navigating the complex landscape of modern politics.
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Trump's Imperial Fantasies
Trump's imperial fantasies include annexing Canada and Greenland.
These fantasies may be resource grabs or a negotiation tactic.
insights INSIGHT
Resource Grab for EV Revolution
Whitney Webb suggests Trump and Musk's interest in Greenland and Canada is for vast mineral deposits.
These minerals are essential for the energy and EV revolution, benefiting billionaires like Musk and Bezos.
insights INSIGHT
Walkable Communities over EVs
The battered middle class can't afford new cars, hindering the EV revolution.
Kunstler advocates for walkable communities and reforming suburban sprawl.
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In 'One Up On Wall Street,' Peter Lynch explains how average investors can outperform professionals by leveraging their everyday experiences and knowledge. Lynch advocates for investing in companies and products that are familiar and understandable, rather than following trendy or complex investments. He provides easy-to-follow advice on analyzing financial statements, identifying different types of companies (such as cyclical, turnaround, and fast-growing companies), and maintaining a long-term investment strategy. The book emphasizes the importance of simplicity, patience, and fundamental analysis in achieving successful investments.
The Rise and Fall of American Growth
The U.S. Standard of Living Since the Civil War
Robert J. Gordon
The book describes the 100 years following 1870 as the 'Special Century,' a period of revolutionary growth and prosperity driven by innovations such as electric lighting, indoor plumbing, motor vehicles, air travel, and television. Gordon argues that this era of growth has been flatlining since 1970, marked by growing inequality, stagnating education, an aging population, and rising debt. He contends that the productivity growth of the past cannot be repeated and identifies several 'headwinds' that will continue to slow American economic growth. The book is divided into two main parts, covering the period from 1870 to 1940 and from 1940 to 2010, and includes detailed statistical analysis and historical anecdotes to support its arguments.
A Hunter-Gatherer's Guide to the 21st Century
Brett Weinstein
Heather Heying
This book, written by evolutionary biologists Heather Heying and Bret Weinstein, addresses the disconnect between human evolutionary history and the challenges of modern life. It explains how the rapid rate of change in the modern world has outpaced the ability of our brains and bodies to adapt, leading to issues such as widespread sleep deprivation, dangerous diets, damaging parenting styles, and backward education practices. The authors draw on decades of research and experiences from biodiverse ecosystems to provide a science-based perspective that aims to empower readers to live better, wiser lives.
The Coming Generational Storm
The Coming Generational Storm
What You Need to Know About America's Economic Future
Lawrence J. Kotlikoff
Lawrence J. Kotlikoff's "The Coming Generational Storm" provides a comprehensive analysis of the looming fiscal crisis facing the United States. The book highlights the unsustainable nature of current government promises regarding Social Security, Medicare, and other entitlement programs. Kotlikoff uses generational accounting to illustrate the massive unfunded liabilities and the potential consequences for future generations. He argues that drastic reforms are necessary to avert a catastrophic fiscal collapse. The book offers a detailed examination of the underlying economic and demographic factors driving the crisis. Kotlikoff proposes various policy solutions to address the problem, emphasizing the need for immediate action to ensure the long-term fiscal health of the nation.
The Preparation
The Preparation
Maxim Smith
Doug Casey
Matt Smith
Dave Collum is a professor of organic chemistry from Cornell University. He joins writer, blogger of "ClusterFuck Nation,”and host of the podcast “Kunstler Cast” James Howard Kunstler to discuss Trump’s comments on Canada, Greenland, Whitney Webb’s post on X, declining birth rates, financial system being a ponzi scheme, MAHA, private equity, bitcoin, CBDC, and much more. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE LIKE AND SHARE THIS PODCAST!!!
Coffee and a Mike 
