The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series
Peter Zeihan
Welcome to The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series! Geopolitical Strategist Peter Zeihan is a global energy, demographic and security expert. If you want to stay informed on the realities of geography and populations, you've come to the right place. Zeihan's worldview offers insights into how global politics impact markets and economic trends, helping industry leaders navigate today’s complex mix of geopolitical risks and opportunities. Expect a forward-looking approach to what will drive tomorrow’s headlines, delivered in digestible, accessible and relevant takeaways for audiences of all types. For more info or to subscribe to the newsletter, visit: zeihan.com Subscribe to the YouTube Channel @zeihanongeopolitics Thanks for listening, and don't forget to subscribe!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 31, 2025 • 10min
A Reckoning for Pakistan || Peter Zeihan
The recent deadly clashes along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border have less to do with current events, and more to do with the fractured ethnic and political foundations of the countries. So, let's look at the mounting instability threatening Pakistan's internal cohesion.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3J58g1u
6 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 7min
Trump and Petro Revive the Colombian Cocaine Industry || Peter Zeihan
A political clash is brewing as Trump cuts military and economic aid to Colombia, potentially reviving the cocaine trade. Colombia’s geography has long facilitated coca cultivation, fueling its dual economies and historical conflict. The decline of FARC created a vacuum for new trafficking actors, and the U.S. aid cuts threaten to push farmers back into coca production. With Petro’s populist stance reshaping leadership, tensions are mounting between him and Trump, highlighting the complex dynamics of U.S. foreign policy and drug economics.
19 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 8min
A $20 Billion Band-Aid for Argentina || Peter Zeihan
The US has committed around $20 billion to support Argentina through a currency swap. This lifeline raises questions about whether it can truly save a country plagued by a history of defaults and economic mismanagement. The discussion highlights Argentina's deteriorating rule of law, erratic tariffs, and leadership failures that have stifled investment. There's also a critical look at the role of U.S. Treasury in this bailout and the potential lessons Argentina teaches the U.S. about the consequences of policy missteps.
12 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 5min
Qatar Bribes Its Way into Idaho || Peter Zeihan
Discover how Qatar is investing in a U.S. training facility, not creating a new base, and learn about the tiny nation's enormous natural gas wealth shaping its foreign policy. Dive into Qatar's controversial history of funding extremist groups and its strategic partnership with the U.S. during the war on terror. Explore the implications of Qatar using cash to influence U.S. politicians, highlighting the blurred lines between investment and bribery. This discussion uncovers the complex dynamics of power and influence in international relations.
7 snips
Oct 27, 2025 • 4min
Venezuela and the War Powers Act || Peter Zeihan
The discussion dives into the Trump administration's aggressive stance on alleged Venezuelan drug smuggling and its legal implications under the War Powers Act. It explores the complex relationship between presidential military authority and Congress's role in declaring war, emphasizing the tensions that arise when the two branches interact. Peter critiques the administration's inadequate communication with Congress and highlights frustration over the lack of transparency regarding military operations. Ultimately, he argues that until Congress takes action, presidential authority remains unchecked.
9 snips
Oct 24, 2025 • 5min
Congressional Midterms: Electoral Bloodbath or More of the Same || Peter Zeihan
The podcast dives into the dynamics of the upcoming midterms, questioning whether they will result in an electoral bloodbath or a continuation of the status quo. It discusses how Senate constraints limit significant changes regarding impeachment. Despite controversies, Trump’s policies surprisingly haven’t led to major voter backlash. The Epstein scandal emerges as a rare political gain for Democrats. Overall, the discussion reflects on the unpredictability of voter behavior and hints at a slow, inevitable political reset on the horizon.
Oct 23, 2025 • 4min
Tomahawk Missiles for Ukraine || Peter Zeihan
The discussion dives into the potential game-changing impact of Tomahawk missiles on the war in Ukraine, particularly how they could disrupt Russian infrastructure. Key Russian drone production sites are identified as crucial targets for altering the conflict. Political challenges are deemed less daunting than technical hurdles faced in supplying the missiles. The limitations of Ukraine's naval capacity and the risks associated with deploying untested mobile prototypes are highlighted, signaling a significant escalation in the conflict.
11 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 6min
So, You Want to Invade Venezuela... || Peter Zeihan
The podcast dissects the complexities of potential U.S. military intervention in Venezuela. It highlights Maduro's corrupt regime and the nation’s deep entanglement in drug trafficking. Peter details the formidable geographic obstacles to a military invasion, particularly around Caracas, and the logistical nightmares of occupation. He contrasts the post-conflict challenges in Iraq with those anticipated in Venezuela, emphasizing the unsustainable nature of airlift for feeding millions. A strategic landing in Maracaibo emerges as a more feasible option, hinting at the grim realities of such an undertaking.
9 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 6min
Israel-Palestine: Credit Where Credit's Due || Peter Zeihan
A ceasefire seems to be keeping the peace between Israel, Gaza, and Hamas, with refugees returning home. The discussion highlights Trump’s unorthodox approach, credited for brokering the truce. However, skepticism remains about the deal's longevity, given ongoing land disputes. The role of Jared Kushner in leveraging business ties is also noted as a key strategy. Peter even speculates on Trump’s chances for a Nobel Peace Prize, considering the unpredictable nature of the committee.
Oct 20, 2025 • 3min
All That Bitchin' Won't Keep China Around || Peter Zeihan
The discussion kicks off with a bold proposal for a 100% tariff on all Chinese imports. Peter Zeihan delves into the critical role of rare earths and how China's dominance in this sector impacts global industry. He highlights China's recent export restrictions and the U.S. response, pushing for urgent action. As demographics shift, the looming trade collapse due to China's aging population becomes evident. Zeihan urges listeners to proactively plan for a future with diminished Chinese influence.
