Minxin Pei, a Claremont College professor and expert on US-China relations, joins Rana Mitter, Harvard Kennedy School's modern China specialist. They discuss Trump's complex relationship with Xi Jinping, touching on tariffs and military tensions over Taiwan. The conversation dives into the challenges of economic rivalry, AI dominance, and how Trump might strategize to counter China’s rise. They also explore Xi's leadership paradox amidst tightening global dynamics and the fate of U.S.-China ties in an era of increasing geopolitical uncertainty.

Season 2 of Face-Off: US vs China begins Tuesday, February 11. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Sanger, a national security correspondent for The New York Times and author of 'New Cold Wars,' dives deep into the evolving tensions between the U.S., China, and Russia. He expresses concerns about the burgeoning alliance between China and Russia and its implications for global stability. The discussion touches on nuclear threats and espionage, the imbalance in student exchanges, and the strategic significance of the AUKUS pact. Sanger offers insights into the complexities of U.S.-China relations and the looming dangers ahead.

Former professor Lyle Goldstein and Taiwanese expert Syaru Shirley Lin discuss the possibility of US-China war over Taiwan, including historical context, military strategies, global ramifications, Taiwan-China relations, and the imperative of quality diplomacy to prevent conflict.

Keyu Jin and Elsie Chen discuss China's economic downturn, real estate meltdown, tech entrepreneurs disappearing, college graduates opting out. Elsie Chen's article on 'lying flat' trend. Analysis of Chinese economy, US-China relations, and Taiwan tensions.

Authors John DeLury and Nigel Inkster discuss China's espionage tactics and the US-China intelligence relationship. They delve into historical cases, the evolution of Chinese intelligence, challenges in monitoring Chinese activities, and China's unique intelligence structure. The podcast offers insights on global intelligence alliances and China's geopolitical influence.

Chinese born professor Minxin Pei discusses the evolving relationship between Xi Jinping and Joe Biden, highlighting misconceptions about Xi's leadership. They explore Xi's strategic vision, foreign relationships, and the dynamics between Xi and Biden. The podcast also touches on Biden's briefing before meeting Xi, CIA profiling on China, surveillance in China, and espionage rivalry between the US and China.

Yo Yo Ma discusses how music can ease tensions between the U.S. and China, highlighting the cultural impact of his music. The podcast delves into Yo Yo Ma's childhood influences, reflections on cultural identity, and the role of music in providing comfort. It also explores the delicate balance between optimism and pessimism in challenging times and discusses the intertwining of classical music, philosophical questions, and global relations.

Tong Zhao discusses China's expanding nuclear arsenal, AI control of nuclear weapons, and the possibility of arms control agreements with the U.S. Topics include Xi Jinping's strategic shift, new missile silos, global geopolitical implications, and the impact of anti-corruption measures on Chinese politics.

Prof. Willy Shih and Wayne Ma discuss Apple's reliance on China for iPhone manufacturing, the challenges faced by the tech giant, and the strategic moves to maintain their relationship. They delve into Apple's diversification struggles, competition with Huawei, and China's response to US bans while exploring the evolving tech landscape.