The Covered Call Podcast Podcast

We just got back from 12 days on the ground in China—what we’re calling the Middle Kingdom Expedition—and sat down while the jet lag was still fresh to capture our impressions.This wasn’t a sightseeing tour. It was a boots-on-the-ground, trains-and-taxis, cigars-and-coffee kind of trip—ten cities in twelve days—meeting people, building connections, and getting a firsthand feel for life and business in modern China.We went in with plenty of questions and a few preconceived notions. Some were confirmed, many were flipped upside down.From Shenzhen’s whisper-quiet electric streets to unexpected home-cooked dinners with near-strangers, the warmth and openness we encountered caught us off guard—in the best possible way.In this episode, we talk about:* The surprising beauty and style of Chinese cities* Cultural nuances that unlock deeper connections* Why politics rarely came up (and why that matters)* The vanishing expat scene—and the opportunities that might create* Our biggest takeaways for anyone curious about working with China todayWhether you’re China-curious, a fellow freedom seeker, or just here for the travel stories, this one’s packed with moments that made us stop and say, “Wait, this isn’t what I expected.”See you inside,Lovis & Jason This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

In this conversation, Peter Alexander shares his extensive experience and insights on the complex relationship between the United States and China. He discusses the misconceptions surrounding China, the impact of sanctions, and the need for a more nuanced understanding of China's strategic goals. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of cooperation over competition and explores potential paths for a collaborative future between the two powers.Chapters00:00 The China Conversation Nobody Wants to Have06:02 Understanding the Current US-China Relations11:44 China's Strategic Moves in Technology and Trade16:40 The Underestimation of China's Capabilities23:30 China's Global Image and Soft Power25:00 Understanding China's Export Dynamics30:24 The U.S. Response to China's Economic Strategies35:58 China's Manufacturing Efficiency and Quality Improvements43:55 The Shift in Global Technology and Innovation49:35 Navigating U.S.-China Relations: Cooperation vs. Competition56:59 The Complementary Nature of US-China Relations01:05:26 Understanding China's Capitalism01:13:35 The Chinese Perspective on Global Events01:18:29 Envisioning a Collaborative Future01:23:29 The Path Forward for US-China Relations01:26:25 Overtime This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

Willem Middelkoop shares his extensive career journey, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, independence, and understanding financial systems. He discusses his various roles, from photojournalism to fund management, and highlights the significance of being adaptable and open to new opportunities. Willem delves into the complexities of the financial system, the current geopolitical landscape, and the future of investments, advocating for a proactive approach to wealth management. He defines freedom not just in financial terms but as a state of being that allows for personal exploration and fulfillment.TakeawaysWillem emphasizes the importance of freedom and independence in his life.Curiosity drives Willem's career choices and investments.He believes in opening multiple doors to opportunities.Understanding money is crucial, as many take it for granted.Willem's journey reflects a balance between risk and reward.He advocates for a proactive approach to investing.The current geopolitical landscape presents both risks and opportunities.Willem defines happiness as a consistent state of being, not just peak moments.He believes the journey of investing is more fulfilling than the destination.Willem's philosophy encourages following one's inner compass. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Willem Middelkoop04:41 Willem's Career Journey and Philosophy12:33 The Importance of Curiosity and Flexibility21:25 Understanding Money and Financial Independence29:14 The Complexity of the Financial System36:39 Traveling and Observing Economic Disparities48:37 Defining Freedom and Independence49:04 Finding Happiness in Simplicity51:01 The Journey vs. The Destination52:14 Understanding Wealth and Financial Freedom54:56 Navigating Global Financial Shifts58:45 Investment Strategies for the Future01:01:19 The Joy of Daily Routines01:05:06 Reflections on Career Choices01:08:17 The Future of Investing and Personal GrowthLinks:Commodity Discovery Fund: https://en.cdfund.com/The Big Reset Book: https://a.co/d/iNEVL3G This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

What if the biggest problems we face - climate change, AI, even war - have no nationality?We sat down with Jen Zhu Scott: investor, entrepreneur, mom, and the visionary behind PowerDynamics.ai.Named one of Forbes’ Top Women in Tech, Jen has advised HBO’s Silicon Valley, spoken on the TED stage, and now she’s building containerized compute and energy infrastructure to decentralize power—both literally and figuratively.But this episode goes much deeper than tech.We talk about:* Growing up in West China and catching a “lucky break” in Shenzhen* Why younger generations “lying flat” may be more evolved than we think* What it means to raise grounded kids in an AI-driven world* How Taoism helps her navigate leadership, parenting, and uncertainty* Why the West keeps getting surprised by China—and what that revealsAnd she drops one line we’ll never forget:“The biggest problems in the world aren’t American, Chinese, or German. They’re human.”If you care about the future - yours, your kids’, or the planet’s - this one’s worth your time.As always, thank you for being part of this curious and freedom-seeking tribe.Lovis & Jason This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

In this episode, Jason and Lovis engage with Alex Ostergaard, exploring his unique background, influences, and insights into personal development and investment strategies. Alex shares his journey from a non-traditional education path to becoming a successful real estate investor in Switzerland, emphasizing the importance of applying theories in real life. The conversation delves into the significance of self-image, resilience, and the impact of Austrian economics on decision-making and investment strategies. In this conversation, Alex shares insights into his family's real estate business, emphasizing the importance of having a personal stake in investments. He discusses the advantages of investing in Swiss real estate compared to other markets, highlighting the stability and potential returns. The conversation also touches on the significance of due diligence, the impact of currency strength on investment returns, and the future goals of the business. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

In this engaging conversation, CJ Gustafson shares his unique approach to business and writing, emphasizing the importance of being approachable and authentic. He discusses his journey of discovering product-audience fit, the balance between cash and equity businesses, and the significance of building relationships within the community. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI on business efficiency, the challenges of buying existing businesses, and the importance of obsession in entrepreneurship. Ultimately, CJ highlights the need for work-life integration and the joy of pursuing one's passions while creating value for others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

Join us as we sit down with Louis Vincent Gave, CEO of Gavekal, a leading financial research and fund management firm known for its East-West perspective. In this episode, recorded just weeks after Trump’s inauguration, Louis dives into the shifting global landscape - from a multipolar world and U.S. dominance to China’s industrial leapfrog over the West. With his unique vantage point from Hong Kong, Beijing, and beyond, Louis shares insights on macro investing, raising resilient kids in an AI-driven future, and why he bets on the renminbi and Brazilian markets. Plus, hear his take on must-read books like Parkinson’s Law and The General Theory of Portfolio Construction from his father’s work. Whether you’re an investor, parent, or global thinker, this conversation is packed with wisdom and wit!PS.: Only after the recording did we realize that the audio quality of Louis's track was poor. We used AI to enhance it - this made the audio useable but some distortions are noticeable. We kindly ask you to excuse us. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

Swen Lorenz shares his unique journey as an investor, entrepreneur, and writer, emphasizing the importance of contrarian thinking, networking, and pursuing freedom. He discusses his early interest in investing, the value of non-traditional education, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in his career. Swen also highlights the significance of building relationships and the opportunities available in cities like London, as well as his experiences living on the island of Sark. The discussion culminates in insights about the current investment landscape and the upcoming Weird S**t Investing Conference.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Swen Lorenz and His Journey03:51 The Importance of Taking Risks and Networking06:29 Education vs. Real-World Experience09:40 The Role of Freedom and Independence in Career Choices12:37 Establishing a Productive Routine15:25 The Impact of Location on Opportunities18:45 Building a Community and Networking Effectively21:21 Entrepreneurship: The Reality Behind the Glamour24:27 The Value of Consistency in Content Creation27:33 Weird S**t Investing: A Unique Investment Conference30:48 The Power of Contrarian Thinking in Investing46:23 Event Exclusivity and Vetting Process47:25 Investment Beliefs and Market Overvaluation50:17 The Value of Risk and Entrepreneurship53:19 AI and Originality in Investment Ideas55:17 Lessons from a $7 Million Failure57:53 Building a Network and Online Presence59:17 Reflections on the Conversation This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

In this episode, Lovis and Jason sit down with Luke Gromen to explore the intersection of family, freedom, and finance, drawing on Luke's transformative journey from his formative Boy Scout experiences to his rise as a leading macroeconomic thinker and founder of FFTT, LLC. The conversation delves into the lessons Luke learned navigating the 2008 financial crisis, the pivotal decision to embrace creative control in his career, and the profound influence of mentorship and family on his personal and professional success. With reflections on resilience, the evolving global economy, and the balance between independence and responsibility, this episode offers a deeply personal and thought-provoking look at what it means to live life on your own terms.TakeawaysThe balance between risk-taking and safety is crucial.Experiences in the Boy Scouts taught resilience and survival skills.Creative control in business allows for authentic expression.The 2008 financial crisis reshaped economic understanding.COVID-19 accelerated changes in economic dynamics.Maintaining freedom requires a balance between systems.Mentorship plays a vital role in personal development.Choosing the right partner is essential for success.Family and relationships provide the richest experiences in life. Flexibility in thinking is key to navigating challenges.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:25 Formative Experiences and Lessons from Boy Scouts05:18 Parental Influence and Risk Management07:56 Transitioning to Professional Life11:00 The Impact of 2008 Financial Crisis13:44 Starting FFTT and Creative Control16:35 Navigating Macro Trends and Market Changes19:39 The Evolution of Economic Dynamics Post-COVID22:13 Personal Reflections on Freedom and Technology25:15 Advice for Freedom-Minded Individuals28:04 The Future of Economic Systems and Global Relations48:27 The Impact of Technology on Financial Freedom51:06 Mentorship and Personal Growth53:40 Investments Beyond Career: Family and Fitness56:31 The Importance of Choosing the Right Partner59:40 Family as an Asset01:01:15 Navigating Life's Choices and Luck01:02:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com

In this engaging conversation, Ferg shares his unconventional journey from a sheep and beef farm in New Zealand to living a fulfilling life in Bali as a contrarian investor. He discusses his transition from traditional asset management to trading, the importance of finding value in hated sectors, and his insights on the current market landscape. Ferg emphasizes the significance of family, freedom, and community, while also addressing the realities of renewable energy and the investment opportunities in China. His passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) serves as a metaphor for his approach to life and investing, highlighting the balance between physical and mental challenges.Check out Ferg's Substack at: traderferg.substack.comTakeawaysFerg transitioned from farming to finance after realizing the unpredictability of agriculture.He found inspiration in a mentor who taught him about investing in hated sectors.Living in Bali allowed Ferg to manage his own investments and enjoy a lower cost of living.Ferg emphasizes the importance of family and spending quality time with loved ones.He believes in the value of transparency and sharing mistakes in the investment community.Ferg's investment strategy focuses on finding value in unloved sectors and contrarian opportunities.He discusses the challenges of relying solely on renewable energy sources.Ferg sees potential in the Chinese market despite negative sentiment.His approach to investing is influenced by his experiences in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.Ferg believes that personal development and physical fitness are crucial for mental clarity.Chapters00:00 Ferg's Journey: From New Zealand to Bali 11:05 Investing Philosophy: Contrarian Insights and Market Strategies 20:32 The Coal Debate: Economic Realities vs. Environmental Concerns 21:32 The Energy Crisis in Germany 26:56 The Challenges of Renewable Energy 32:17 The Illusion of Energy Transition 36:04 Finding Freedom in Lifestyle Choices 40:49 Building a Community Through Authenticity 49:11 Investment Strategies and Market Insights 01:00:06 China's Rise and Global Manufacturing Dynamics 01:02:13 The Complexity of US-China Relations 01:04:00 Investment Perspectives on Chinese Stocks 01:06:24 The Impact of Passive Investing on Market Dynamics 01:08:15 The Role of BJJ in Personal and Professional Life 01:12:13 Navigating Market Volatility and Personal Well-being 01:14:29 Introduction to Ferg's Substack This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit podcast.thecoveredcallpod.com