If You're Listening Why is Venezuela falling apart?
Dec 10, 2025
The podcast delves into the tumultuous situation in Venezuela, highlighting a tense moment when Donald Trump offered safe passage to President Maduro. It explores Venezuela's rich oil history and the failed attempts to diversify its economy. The narrative unfolds with Hugo Chávez's rise to power, his populist tactics, and the consequences of nationalizing oil. It examines the catastrophic collapse caused by a crash in oil prices, leading to severe shortages and hyperinflation, all underscored by a mix of delusion and systemic corruption.
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Maduro’s Reported Flight Offer
- During a reported 15-minute phone call, Donald Trump offered Nicolás Maduro safe passage if he left Venezuela immediately.
- Reuters said Maduro sought legal amnesty for himself and cronies, and now sleeps in different houses nightly fearing strikes.
Big Oil, Bigger Contradiction
- Venezuela has the world's largest proven oil reserves yet faces a decade-long economic collapse.
- The crisis can't be explained simply by corruption, sanctions, or socialism alone.
Oil Royalties Built Society
- Foreign oil companies once ran Venezuela's wells and paid royalties that funded broad social programs.
- Early oil royalties funded modernisation and welfare across Venezuelan society.