Face-Off: The U.S. vs China
Airwave Media
FACE-OFF: US vs CHINA is an inside look at the turbulent relationship between the world's two superpowers, the two men in charge, and the vital issues that affect us all.
FACE-OFF is hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jane Perlez, former New York Times Beijing bureau chief and current fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center. In each episode Professor Rana Mitter, recently of the University of Oxford and now professor of modern China at the Harvard Kennedy School, chats with Jane on what’s at stake.
FACE-OFF is produced in partnership with Rowhome Productions.
FACE-OFF is hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jane Perlez, former New York Times Beijing bureau chief and current fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center. In each episode Professor Rana Mitter, recently of the University of Oxford and now professor of modern China at the Harvard Kennedy School, chats with Jane on what’s at stake.
FACE-OFF is produced in partnership with Rowhome Productions.
Episodes
Mentioned books
13 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 33min
The Rugby Gambit
In this engaging discussion, Oliver Nobetau, a Papua New Guinea government lawyer and Lowy Institute fellow, sheds light on a unique rugby deal that links sports diplomacy to national security. He explains how a $600 million rugby franchise for PNG guarantees no Chinese military presence. Meanwhile, Rana Mitter, a Harvard professor, provides historical context on China's ambitions in the Pacific. The conversation dives into the strategic value of Papua New Guinea, the implications of newfound defense agreements, and sports as a tool for geopolitical leverage.
7 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 35min
Rise of the Robots
Alberto Moel, a robotics scientist at the University of Hong Kong, and Rana Mitter, a historian of modern China at Harvard, discuss the rapid advancements in China's robotics sector. Moel reveals how robots are transforming factories, predicting iPhones could soon be assembled by robots. He raises concerns about the implications for U.S. manufacturing. Mitter adds a socio-economic perspective, highlighting the job displacement automation brings in both China and the U.S. Together, they navigate the complex landscape of technology and geopolitics.
13 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 54min
The Xi Factor
Jake Sullivan, former U.S. National Security Advisor and Harvard professor, shares insights from his extensive dealings with Xi Jinping, revealing the contrast between Xi's public bravado and private diplomacy. He discusses China's strategic ambitions to surpass the U.S. and the implications of technological advances, including AI. Joining him is Rana Mitter, who offers historical context on China's military purges and the complexities of U.S.-China relations. Together, they explore the risks of China's rise and the resilience of both nations.
35 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 52min
China's Arms Race
Zhou Bo, a retired senior colonel in the People's Liberation Army and military affairs commentator, joins historian Rana Mitter for an engaging discussion on China's military evolution. They explore China's accelerated naval expansion and advancements in hypersonic missiles, revealing Xi Jinping's purges aimed at a loyal military. Topics include the implications of China's no-first-use policy, Taiwan's status, and the lessons learned from Russia's actions in Ukraine. The conversation emphasizes the need for US-China military dialogue amid growing tensions.
18 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 59min
Generation Burnout
In this discussion, Chang Che, a Chinese-American journalist exploring post-pandemic China, shares insights on the disillusionment of Chinese youth embracing 'garbage time.' He highlights their quiet rebellion against a stagnant system, the decline in marriage rates, and the creative responses emerging among young people. Historian Rana Mitter adds depth by comparing global youth discontent and questioning whether AI will truly revive opportunities. The conversation reveals a complex landscape of frustration, innovation, and the search for identity in challenging times.
Nov 4, 2025 • 3min
Season 3 Trailer
Dive into the intriguing dynamics of U.S.-China relations, exploring the fierce competition that has become a systemic struggle. Contrast the impulsive leadership styles of Trump and Xi Jinping, as they steer their nations in opposing directions. Delve into the expansion of China's military capabilities and the role of AI and robots in future warfare. Plus, hear about the disillusionment of Chinese Gen Z as they search for new paths in a rapidly changing world. Get ready for a captivating season ahead!
Oct 28, 2025 • 18min
THE GREATER WAGER EPISODE 5: The Break-Up
Discover how Nixon's ambitious strategy to engage China shaped U.S.-China relations for decades. Tensions rise as Xi Jinping's assertiveness signals a power shift. Experts discuss today’s diplomatic pitfalls and the complexities of economic reliance. With Taiwan becoming a flashpoint, fears of military confrontation loom. Can the U.S. reclaim strategic leverage like in the 1970s? The conversation navigates the challenges of collaboration on pressing global issues and reflects on Nixon's legacy of engagement over isolation.
5 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 17min
THE GREAT WAGER EPISODE 4: Shared Secrets
Explore the unprecedented collaboration between the U.S. and China during the Cold War. The podcast reveals how Kissinger shared CIA intelligence with Chinese officials, strengthening their alliance against a common enemy: the Soviet Union. Discover the strategic significance of western China in surveillance efforts and the negotiations for spy stations prior to formal recognition. Hear about Deng Xiaoping's secretive visit to the CIA and the mutual benefits that emerged from this covert partnership, transforming the balance of power.
14 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 17min
THE GREAT WAGER EPISODE 3: When Nixon Met Mao
Dive into the historic 1972 meeting between Nixon and Mao, where U.S.-China relations were dramatically reshaped. Uncover Nixon's secret strategy to counter the Soviet Union by charming the Chinese leadership. Experience the tension as Kissinger rushes Nixon to an unexpected meeting, and marvel at the cultural theatrics of their banquet. Discover how this pivotal encounter granted China international legitimacy and propelled Nixon to diplomatic fame. The public's fascination in both nations skyrocketed, marking a transformative moment in Cold War history.
10 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 17min
THE GREAT WAGER EPISODE 2: Plots & Private Planes
Explore the secretive strategies behind Nixon and Kissinger's clandestine trip to China during the Cold War. Discover how Pakistan was chosen for its discretion, and the amusing connection to Frank Sinatra's plane. Delve into Kissinger's surprising lack of expertise on China, the tense moments aboard the flight, and the complex dynamics during his first meeting with Premier Zhou Enlai. As geopolitics hang in the balance, witness Nixon's triumph and the global reactions to this groundbreaking diplomatic maneuver.
