
"Live Players" with Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg
See the world through the eyes of society's greatest rule-breakers. The "Live Players" podcast charts the key individuals shaping our future from first principles across multiple domains: business, politics, philanthropy, and broadcasting from the digital town squareJoin host Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg as they analyze the mindsets of today's most intriguing business leaders, investors, and innovators through the lens of their bold actions and contrarian worldviews. You'll come away with a deeper understanding of the development of technology, business, political power, culture and more.If you want more than soundbites and sensationalism, this podcast delivers reasoned reflections on the live players who renew and transform civilization, whether we ask them to or not.Topics frequently covered: Business titans, political players, and philanthropists like Elon Musk, Sam Altman, Peter Thiel, George Soros, Donald Trump, and more with the power to remake industries, policies, borders, or societal norms.Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co
Latest episodes

33 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 59min
Is Europe Part of America?
Discover how U.S. political dynamics ripple through Europe, reshaping political landscapes and ideologies. Delve into the cultural tensions and media influences, revealing the urgent need for independent European media amid American dominance. Explore the potential for right-wing shifts in Europe spurred by social media's role in shaping public opinion. Consider the complexities of national sovereignty in a digital age and the lasting cultural impact of American ideals on Western civilization.

36 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 1h
Predicting Humanity’s Interplanetary Future
Dive into the fascinating possibilities of space colonization! There's a discussion on how Martian societies may evolve amidst the challenges of zero gravity and resource management. The competition for lunar territory intensifies, with nations vying for control akin to historical rivalries on Earth. The role of advanced AI in shaping future encounters and ethical dilemmas is highlighted. Cultural shifts unique to Martian life could reshape identity and community dynamics, while humanity contemplates a united front in the quest for multi-planetary existence.

60 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 57min
Curtis Yarvin and the Evolution of American Political Thought
This discussion delves into Curtis Yarvin's provocative ideas on government efficiency and the dynamics of democracy. It critiques the limitations of using market analogies for governance and explores the challenges of Congressional gridlock versus executive power. The concept of 'patchwork' governance offers a fresh take on competing state systems. The dialogue emphasizes the role of provocative thinkers in advancing political discourse, while contrasting governance outcomes during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

12 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 1h 20min
Why Elites Failed Us w/ Auren Hoffman [World of DaaS]
Auren Hoffman, host of the World of DaaS podcast, engages with Samo Burja, who presents his "Great Founder Theory." They discuss how exceptional individuals have historically shaped civilization and institutions. Topics include the evolving trust in elites, the decline of fertility rates, and the pressures facing modern parents. The conversation also navigates the paradox of trust in decentralized crypto systems and critiques the societal barriers faced by ambitious innovators today.

27 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Technology That Can Reshape Nations
Explore the transformative power of desalination technology in combating water scarcity. Discover how Israel, Singapore, and Gulf nations leverage these advancements. Delve into the geopolitical ramifications of turning arid regions into fertile lands and the interplay between climate change and water demand. Unpack the global tech talent race, highlighting immigration challenges and their impact on innovation. This insightful discussion reveals how technology reshapes nations and influences population dynamics.

80 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 1h 2min
Elon Musk, Social Media Influence, & the Future of Political Discourse
The discussion highlights the transformative role of social media, especially Twitter, under Elon Musk. It navigates the shifting landscape of political discourse and the impact of personal branding. The polarization in society is examined as well, alongside the cultural differences influencing political expression in Europe and America. Additionally, the implications of workplace norms on free speech and the emergence of new movements in Europe are explored, emphasizing the potential for a new political narrative driven by the younger generation.

18 snips
Dec 13, 2024 • 1h 3min
Syria After Assad
The podcast dives into Syria's complex political landscape following President Assad's potential downfall, highlighting the turmoil caused by ethnic and religious divisions. The challenges of establishing a stable democracy amidst ongoing conflicts are discussed, alongside the Kurdish struggle for autonomy and its impact on regional stability. Cultural barriers to identity among sects are examined, with insights into the post-war landscape and the intricate power dynamics involving foreign interests. The conversation also touches on how these issues resonate with governance challenges in Africa.

89 snips
Nov 29, 2024 • 1h 2min
Dissecting Modern Society with Rudyard Lynch
Rudyard Lynch, a keen analyst of global power dynamics, joins the conversation to delve into the psychological impacts of modernity. The discussion draws fascinating parallels between historical power shifts and today’s challenges, including technology and surveillance. Lynch critiques outdated political paradigms, revealing the disconnect in understanding modern sentiments. They also touch on cultural shifts, comparing nostalgia with current dystopian imagery, and explore how historical narratives continue to shape contemporary geopolitical relationships.

12 snips
Nov 15, 2024 • 58min
Populism vs The Deep State
Dive into the vibrant world of populism as it clashes with traditional governance. Discover how historical figures and contemporary events like Trump and Brexit have shaped political landscapes. Explore the complexities of political appointments and external influences within parties, alongside the impact of social media on populist strategies. What does the future hold for charismatic political candidates in the new digital age? Unravel the tangled relationship between populism and bureaucracy, and envision a more harmonious political future.

20 snips
Nov 8, 2024 • 57min
Advice for Trump and Elon
The discussion dives into the surprising implications of Trump's victory and its alliance with tech leaders like Elon Musk. It critiques traditional political predictions while examining how media dynamics are changing. The impact of generative AI on workflow and activism is explored alongside the evolving role of technology in governance. There's a focus on reforming government institutions and the necessity for bipartisan cooperation to navigate geopolitical challenges and enhance civil service efficiency.
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