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
15 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 7min
Colombia Avoids War with the US || Peter Zeihan
Tensions in Colombia peaked after Maduro's capture, igniting fears of conflict. A surprising call between Trump and President Petro helped ease the situation. The podcast explores the strategic importance of Colombia's geography and its pivotal role in U.S. interests, especially regarding cocaine interdiction. Peter discusses Colombia's security culture shaped by years of civil war and its economic ties to the U.S. The potential for Colombia as a low-cost manufacturing partner alongside Mexico is also highlighted, amidst their ongoing drug challenges.
18 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 4min
Venezuela’s End: Was a Deal Struck? || Peter Zeihan
Speculation arises around a potential U.S. deal with Russia or China regarding Venezuela, but clarity is needed. Peter argues that neither Russia nor China can provide meaningful concessions. He highlights Russia's limited military reach and minimal investments in Venezuela. China's focus on investment over military influence lacks the naval power for control. The U.S. Navy's dominance allows for uninterrupted maritime operations, but recent U.S. actions may signal a shift in support. Ultimately, Peter concludes that the U.S. has the autonomy to dismantle Chinese influence alone.
9 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 5min
Venezuela Offers Trump an Oil Bribe || Peter Zeihan
Venezuela's leadership is making headlines with a bold offer of 30-50 million barrels of oil to President Trump, viewed as a blatant political bribe. The motivations behind this move are tied to securing U.S. recognition and protection amidst a dire economic situation. As exports face steep challenges, Venezuelan oil tanks are nearing capacity. This raises urgent legal and ethical dilemmas for the U.S. regarding sanctioned crude, while the impending collapse of Venezuelan oil production looms without international buyers.
13 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 9min
Venezuela's End: Next on the Chopping Block || Peter Zeihan
This discussion dives into U.S. activism in Latin America, focusing on Venezuela as a pivotal point. With Cuba losing its oil lifeline, instability looms for the island. Brazil is highlighted as a strategic concern, especially regarding its coastal cities and political maneuvering. Honduras is examined as a wild card, with plans for U.S.-backed leadership. The challenge of rebuilding nations post-regime change is explored, alongside the need to counter Chinese influence in the region.
12 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 7min
The New Ukraine Proxy War || Peter Zeihan
Russia is depleting its prewar vehicle stock at an alarming rate, leading to military exhaustion. The war's terrain favors Ukrainian drones over Russian armored units, which are losing their initial advantages. Casualties are mounting for Russia as demographic limits hinder their mobilization efforts. Meanwhile, European military industries are ramping up, contrasting sharply with Russia's decline. The podcast explores the shifting dynamics of warfare, with European support bolstering Ukraine and China backing Russia.
13 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 9min
No Immigrants & Negative Growth = Canada’s Economic Tipping Point || Peter Zeihan
Canada's recent 0.2% population decline raises alarms about its future economic stability. The podcast delves into decades of low birth rates and the repercussions of Stephen Harper's immigration strategy. It highlights cultural shifts and housing affordability crises in major cities, alongside Trudeau's sudden restriction of migration. The discussion ties these issues to Canada's reliance on American trade and the looming need for a more robust workforce. Ultimately, the long-term effects of these policies could reshape Canada's economic fabric.
20 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 4min
"Death to the Dictator" Protests in Iran || Peter Zeihan
Protests erupt in Iran with chants of 'Death to the Dictator,' highlighting deep-rooted economic and political tensions. The loss of oil revenue weakens the regime's ability to maintain loyalty through patronage. Tehran's heavy reliance on military forces to suppress dissent reveals the internal strains of governance. Despite historical resilience, the Iranian state faces challenges in integration and popular support. While revolution seems possible, systemic change is expected to be gradual rather than sudden.
7 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 3min
Venezuela's End: The Oil Question || Peter Zeihan
Venezuela's future hinges on oil, but it's fraught with challenges. The Orinoco Belt holds promise yet demands significant investment and sophisticated extraction techniques. Historical ties with foreign firms have left a mark on PDVSA, but a brutal purge has led to a collapse in expertise. Restoring oil output will require massive funding and faces numerous hurdles. As the country grapples with these realities, the fate of its oil industry remains precarious.
7 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 4min
The US Economy Is (Kind of, Sort of) Growing || Peter Zeihan
Recent data shows the U.S. economy is growing faster than expected, but a closer look reveals some troubling trends. Industrial construction spending is falling, signaling a need for more investment. Data centers inflate industrial activity despite their high costs. Aggregate consumption seems steady, yet it's uneven, with the top 10% driving half of all spending. Overall growth appears lopsided and heavily reliant on bubble-prone sectors, raising concerns about economic fragility and policy-driven uncertainty.
10 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 5min
US Foreign Policy After Trump || Peter Zeihan
Exploring the chaotic future of US foreign policy post-Trump reveals a country devoid of strategic direction. Demographic shifts are set to reshape economic needs, complicating foreign relations. The collapse of bipartisan consensus has left no clear plan in its wake. Key planning offices weakened during Trump's tenure have hampered strategic foresight. Peter warns that without thoughtful policies, conflicts may escalate. He forecasts a turbulent decade ahead, hinting at the potential for new political forces to rise.
