Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the war between Israel and Hamas, analyzing the moral problems with the leftist response. They explore geopolitical power dynamics in the Arab world and how this conflict signifies the decline of American power. They also touch on Saudi Arabia's alliance and recent events, Israel's treatment of Palestinians and violation of rights, and the possibility of Israel retaliating and the military challenges they face. Finally, they explore the concept of American hegemony and its potential end.

Bernie Sanders' movement and its failings are discussed, including privatization, student loans, healthcare, and the wealth gap. The impact of Sanders' movement on Biden and the Democratic Party is explored, as well as the influence of Elizabeth Warren. The importance of negotiation in healthcare and the need for actual Medicare for all are also discussed.

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the next age of globalization, moving away from China. They explore attitudes towards deficit spending, rising interest rates, and the consequences of increasing national debt. They also discuss adjusting for inflation in global trade, the shift in China's role in globalization, and geopolitical factors hindering investments. The podcast concludes with speculation on triggers for increased economic optimism.

Economist Noah Smith fact-checks Republican Presidential candidate Vivek's Ramaswamy's platform, covering climate science sources, economic facts on renewable energy, and foreign policy stance towards China, Russia, and Taiwan.

Join Adam Nash, CEO of Daffy and seasoned fintech leader from Wealthfront and LinkedIn, as he dives into the economic impacts of AI and the current tech downturn. He discusses how AI is reshaping workforce dynamics, emphasizing adaptability over traditional skills. Adam also explores the dual nature of technology, advocating for cautious optimism while fostering grassroots innovations. Finally, he shares his journey in revolutionizing charitable giving through Daffy, addressing the challenges of navigating the startup ecosystem.

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg compare today's economy to the Reagan-era, discuss the actual cost of the war in Ukraine, and analyze the economics of the populist anthem 'Rich Men North of Richmond'

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the factors brewing up a major crisis for China’s economy, impact on US, falling resource prices affect inflation, China’s recession, paradox of thrift, options for allaying unrest, China owning a Sri Lankan city, and comparisons to past economic crises.

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss student debt, millennial politics, conservatism, international relations, and more. They explore the evolution of opinions on student debt, millennials becoming conservative, the consequences of wealth inheritance, and the potential political future of Gen Z. They also touch on Trump's foreign policy, the right on Taiwan vs China, and the impact of inheritance on society. The podcast delves into the contrasting behavior of millennials and Gen Z, as well as the correlation between political beliefs and mental health.

In this podcast, Noah and Mike debate the effectiveness of industrial policy. They discuss the importance of aligning industries with national goals, the role of market forces, and the complexity of policy implementation. They also explore the impact on national security, the benefits of industrial policy in job creation, and the challenges of decoupling from China while pursuing decarbonization goals. The speakers highlight the importance of local multipliers and clustering in the semiconductor industry, and the value of entrepreneurial spirit in overcoming obstacles.

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the failings of higher education, working class economic prospects, the American healthcare system, and predictions for the future of higher education. They explore the commercialization of research, the impact of the economy on the job market and college experience, and the rise of specialization. They also discuss the high cost of healthcare in the US and the need for affordable essential services. Overall, they predict resistance to change from elite schools, a decline in liberal arts and for-profit schools, and potential success for vocational schools.