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
13 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 3min
Should China Invade Siberia? || Peter Zeihan
Could China really seize Siberia while Russia is preoccupied with Ukraine? The discussion dives into the complexities of Siberian energy resources, highlighting Western control and operational challenges. With a low population and limited agricultural potential, long-term Chinese occupation seems unlikely. Additionally, Russia's formidable nuclear arsenal serves as a significant deterrent against invasion. The podcast also explores the need to physically isolate Siberia from European Russia, but ultimately concludes that such scenarios are far from imminent.
17 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 3min
Life After Trump: President JD Vance || Peter Zeihan
What happens when a sitting president exceeds the average lifespan? The discussion dives into how a hypothetical President J.D. Vance might govern. Comparing him to past leaders like JFK and Obama, the risks of his lack of a robust political network are explored. Yet, there's a chance that Vance could show unexpected leadership in a crisis. Ultimately, the conversation concludes that his presidency could be a gamble, heavily reliant on his personal capabilities rather than a strong advisory team.
14 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 6min
Would You Like Some Plutonium with That? || Peter Zeihan
The U.S. faces significant electricity shortages and needs to ramp up its energy generation capabilities. A fascinating solution discussed is mixed-oxide (MOX) fuel, which replaces traditional uranium with a uranium-plutonium blend. The podcast explores the economic viability of MOX and its predominant use by Russia. Concerns about sourcing plutonium and potential proliferation risks also arise, especially with the U.S. plan to convert decommissioned warheads to MOX. Can this pilot program succeed by 2026 despite the challenges?
23 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 7min
A Dark Future for American Agriculture || Peter Zeihan
U.S. agriculture faces a looming crisis due to aggressive tariffs, pushing international buyers away. Exports to China have plummeted, with beef and soy purchases nosediving over 90%. Producers must brace for a future where Chinese demand fades amid demographic shifts. Domestic consumption is constrained by a shrinking population, leading to spiraling farm incomes. Limited federal support and administrative challenges further exacerbate the situation, threatening the livelihood of farmers against a backdrop of global competition.
8 snips
Oct 11, 2025 • 9min
A Break for Ukraine || Peter Zeihan
The discussion highlights a potential shift in U.S. policy towards Ukraine, focusing on providing precision targeting intelligence for strikes inside Russia. It explores past U.S. concerns over energy prices and Biden's decision to limit Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries. The conversation moves to Trump's evolving stance toward Ukraine, his foreign policy choices, and the significant impact of recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil capacity. The episode concludes with insights on how U.S. support could drastically alter the battlefield dynamics.
6 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 7min
A Rare Sign of Life in Congress || Peter Zeihan
Finally, some sparks of life are igniting in Congress as senators rise against the tide of executive power. Peter Zeihan discusses the fallout from Trump's influence on the Republican Party and the implications of nominating unqualified candidates. Concerns about E.J. Antony’s potential leadership at the Bureau of Labor Statistics showcase how sensitive and respected U.S. data is globally. Notably, the withdrawal of Antony's nomination indicates a shift, with centrist senators asserting their authority and hinting at a resurgence of congressional independence.
13 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 7min
America’s Generals Gathered for...That? || Peter Zeihan
In a lively discussion, critiques arise regarding Pete Hegseth's qualifications as a defense secretary. The impact of his focus on culture-war issues raises concerns about military recruitment and capabilities. Trump's speech comes under fire for its aimlessness and lack of substance, sparking alarm over his suggestion to use cities as military training grounds. As Peter shares his unease, listeners ponder the implications of these leadership styles on national defense.
5 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 3min
And You Thought the Jones Act Was Dumb... || Peter Zeihan
Discover the surprising impact of tariffs on semi-trucks, which carry a staggering 90% of U.S. cargo. Find out how the Jones Act historically shifted freight from water to trucks, creating lasting consequences for transport costs. Learn about the new 100% tariff on trucks and its ripple effects on American workers and companies. Understand which regions benefit from proximity to mega-ports, escaping the brunt of these rising costs. This lively discussion opens your eyes to unexpected national security implications tied to everyday goods.
5 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 5min
Testing NATO (Trump and Europe Prepare for the Worst) || Peter Zeihan
Tensions escalate as Russian drones invade NATO airspace, prompting President Trump to advocate for a shoot-down policy. Peter Zeihan explores Russia's strategic motives and the deficiencies of drone capabilities in a potential large-scale invasion. He assesses NATO's military readiness and the political will among European leaders to respond forcefully. Meanwhile, Europe seeks to enhance defense cooperation amid growing threats, all while cautioning against the risks of independent rearmament without U.S. support.
8 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 5min
Say Goodbye to the World's Trade Routes || Peter Zeihan
In a world on the brink of trade route upheaval, the podcast explores which paths will crack first. Southeast Asian corridors, particularly the Malacca–Lindas route, are poised for stability, while the Persian Gulf faces imminent threats due to geopolitical tensions. The fate of the Baltic Sea hangs in the balance, tied intricately to the ongoing Ukraine conflict. As alliances shift and globalization wanes, the podcast dives deep into the precarious landscape of global trade and its uncertain future.
