Bob Murphy Show

Mikkel Thorup is founder and CEO of ExPat Money. He joins Bob to discuss various geopolitical events, including Trump's talk of grabbing the Panama Canal and Greenland, as well as the dollar's shrinking importance in the global economy. He gives thoughts on the importance of setting up a "Plan B" of assets and living arrangements outside your home country.Mentioned in the Episode and Other Links of Interest:The YouTube version of this interview.Mikkel Thorup's Expat Money Show. His Wealth, Freedom, and Passports conference in March 2025.Thorup's article on Trump wanting the Panama Canal.The link for Monetary-Metals.com.Help support the Bob Murphy Show.

Bob first explains the neoclassical theory of "optimal tariffs," by which a large country can use a modest tariff to improve its terms of trade. He then shows how this theoretical possibility is consistent with standard arguments making the case for free trade.Mentioned in the Episode and Other Links of Interest:The link for Monetary-Metals.com.Fed Reserve Bank of Richmond piece on optimal tariff theory.Bob and Josh Hendrickson discuss Stephen Miran's strategy for using tariffs to help the US position.Bastiat's "Petition of the Candlemakers."Bob on the Human Action podcast clarifies comparative advantage.Bob interviews Brian Domitrovic on economists having a biased view of tariffs vs. income taxes.Help support the Bob Murphy Show.

Adam Heyman returns to share his sharp insights on Trump's latest maneuvers, including a striking announcement about Gaza. They dissect the strategic dismantling of USAID and its controversial ties to government meddling. The conversation dives into how Trump's tariffs are shaping trade dynamics while addressing the complexities of vaccine liability and international politics. With a blend of humor and serious critique, they explore the implications of government secrecy and political accountability, offering a fresh perspective on today’s heated political landscape.

The executive editor of the Libertarian Institute, Sheldon Richman, joins Bob to push back against the popular use of the term "corporate" as a pejorative. They cover both cultural and theoretical issues.Mentioned in the Episode and Other Links of Interest:The YouTube version of this episode.Sheldon Richman's post on the term "corporate." His bio at the Libertarian Institute.Murray Rothbard's essay on Michael Milken.Help support the Bob Murphy Show.

In yet another crossover, Adam Haman returns to discuss the recent admission by the feds that the origin of Covid-19 was probably the Wuhan lab leak. Adam and Bob then discuss the age-old question, "If you could go back in time and find baby Hitler, would you...?"Mentioned in the Episode and Other Links of Interest:The YouTube version of this episode.The Haman Nature page.Help support the Bob Murphy Show.

Fergus Hodgson, a New Zealand native and author of "The Latin America Red Pill," shares his insights on the realities of life in Latin America. He challenges mainstream narratives about the region, discussing the complexities of poverty and political corruption. Hodgson analyzes Javier Milei's election in Argentina, exploring the potential for classical liberal policies. He also reconsiders immigration and border issues, detailing personal experiences as an ex-pat and examining the nuanced dynamics of cultural cohesion and economic disparities.

Adam Haman, co-host and political commentator, joins Bob Murphy to dissect the whirlwind events of Trump's inauguration day. They probe into Elon Musk's controversial hand gesture and its broader implications. The discussion then shifts to internal conflicts within the Democratic Party and the ethical dilemmas of political pardons. They also critique societal reflections prompted by 'The Purge,' consider Trump's executive actions on gender identity, and cast a skeptical eye on contemporary education and government policies.

A thought-provoking critique of Curtis Yarvin’s controversial stance on government control leads the discussion. Topics include the moral implications of immigration policies and how they align with traditional economic models. The exploration of economic utility highlights misunderstandings in government objectives. A challenging look at state roles questions whether government serves the people or owns them. Additionally, the clash between secular values and Christian perspectives is examined, urging a reconsideration of individual happiness and moral frameworks.

In this engaging discussion, fire insurance expert Adam Haman joins Bob Murphy to dissect the alarming LA fires. They tackle the pressing issues of wildfire insurance in California and the government's role in mismanagement. Adam emphasizes the crisis of securing affordable fire coverage amid climate change. The duo critiques the detracting focus on DEI initiatives in firefighting and highlights critical operational failures during emergencies. With insightful analysis and a sprinkle of humor, they illuminate the complexities of fire management and accountability.

Adam Terrell, host of The Theocracy Podcast and author of Public Stoning, engages in a deep discussion with Bob Murphy on the intersection of Christianity and private law. They explore how private law can enhance accountability and efficiency in crime management without state intervention. The dialogue touches on the role of technology in trust-building, rethinking consent in justice systems, and the moral complexities of community practices, including public stoning. Biblical narratives also serve as a lens for understanding modern legal frameworks and personal ethics.