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
9 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 4min
Can 3D Printing Save U.S. Manufacturing? || Peter Zeihan
As global manufacturing faces pressure from collapsing supply chains and tariffs, 3D printing emerges as a potential savior. The discussion delves into how tariffs are pushing companies to rethink production locations, while highlighting the tech's limitations in complex multi-material assemblies. Prototyping and lightweight aerospace parts are identified as prime use cases. Despite slower speeds compared to traditional methods, there's optimism for niche growth in 3D printing as manufacturers adapt to economic challenges.
10 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 6min
The AI Race to Regression || Peter Zeihan
Explore the surprising notion that the AI race might lead us to regression instead of progress. Discover how current fears around AI often miss the mark. Learn about GPT-5's focus on specialized users rather than casual interactions. Delve into the hardware bottlenecks limiting AI advancements, particularly in chip production and data center efficiency. Uncover concerns about the concentration of AI access among governments and corporations due to chip shortages. Finally, consider the daunting journey of reindustrialization that lies ahead.
5 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 5min
The Fourth Sale Revolution: Supermajor Tech || Peter Zeihan
Discover how a new synthetic proppant from ExxonMobil could ignite a fresh shale revolution in the U.S. Learn the ins and outs of hydraulic fracturing, alongside how recent tech advances can boost well output significantly. Delve into the dynamics of major oil companies consolidating their power in the shale market. Plus, find out why lighter-density proppant enhances production by penetrating formations deeper and holding fractures open more effectively. Technological advancements signal that the shale boom isn't ending anytime soon.
7 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 6min
Crippling the Kremlin with Russian Sanctions || Peter Zeihan
Sanctions on Russia's energy sector are discussed, revealing significant impacts from the Trump administration's policies. Key players like Rosneft and Lukoil are scrutinized, highlighting their financial struggles and the necessity of divesting international assets. Hungary's exemption under Viktor Orban raises questions about energy reliance while Rosneft's technical weaknesses jeopardize complex projects. The potential shutdown of the Sakhalin LNG project could signal further operational challenges for Russia. It's a gripping examination of geopolitics and energy dynamics!
5 snips
Nov 17, 2025 • 5min
Myanmar Is More Important Than You Think || Peter Zeihan
Myanmar may be overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in global geopolitics and economics. Amid a long-standing civil war, its potential as a low-cost manufacturing hub could shift supply chains away from China. Ongoing conflicts bolster drug trafficking, influencing the global heroin market. Additionally, China sees Myanmar as a strategic land route, complicating regional politics. With an intricate ethnic landscape and upcoming elections, the future of Myanmar is uncertain yet pivotal.
27 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 6min
The Semiconductor Frontier || Peter Zeihan
Explore the cutting-edge world of semiconductors as advancements in ASML’s High-NA EUV lithography machines are unveiled. Discover the significance of these massive machines that enable ultra-fine etching at the nanometer scale. Examine Intel's race to regain its position with new High-NA trials and the potential transformative leap for chip architecture. Delve into the complexities of semiconductor supply chains and geopolitical implications. Will Intel rise to lead, or remain second-best? The future takes shape!
10 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 8min
New Strategies in the Ukraine War || Peter Zeihan
The conflict in Ukraine is evolving with shifting strategies from both Russia and Ukraine. Russia is now targeting rail infrastructure instead of power grids, impacting troop movements. Meanwhile, Ukraine is striking back with deep attacks on Russian oil facilities and ports. The concept of a 'shadow fleet,' involving uninsured tankers, raises the stakes for Russian oil exports. Peter highlights how recent developments change the battlefield dynamics and the implications of these aggressive tactics.
9 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 2min
The Last Generation to Protest || Peter Zeihan
The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into how young populations drive significant protests, highlighting their willingness to challenge governments. Peter reveals that a robust youth demographic is crucial for impactful movements, citing past successes in South Korea. He also explores the alarming trend of declining birth rates, which limits countries with a vibrant under-30 crowd. Closing thoughts shed light on where youth bulges still exist, pinpointing nations like Nepal and Nigeria, and their potential for future protests.
32 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 8min
How Was Trump's Trip to Asia? || Peter Zeihan
President Trump's recent trip to Asia shook up U.S. trade dynamics. Observations highlight the shift away from Northeast Asia due to demographic changes, while Southeast Asia emerges as a valuable partner. Trump's mixed messaging on tariffs creates challenges for businesses adapting their supply chains. Although there are promises of agreements with ASEAN countries, the details remain vague. The impact of Trump's leadership style on negotiations and enforcement issues complicates U.S.-China relations, with ongoing tariff chaos likely to persist.
10 snips
Nov 8, 2025 • 4min
Imminent US Strikes Against Venezuelan Government || Peter Zeihan
The imminent U.S. military strikes against Venezuela highlight a frail military landscape in the country. The degradation of Latin American militaries since the 1980s is explored, alongside how Hugo Chavez's rule transformed Venezuela's armed forces into a corrupt entity. Current assessments reveal outdated equipment and poor leadership. A potential U.S. removal of Maduro could be swift, but fears of post-regime chaos and armed unrest loom large due to widespread civilian access to firearms.
