Keen On America
Andrew Keen
Nobody asks sharper or more impertinent questions than Andrew Keen. In KEEN ON, Andrew cross-examines the world’s smartest people on politics, economics, history, the environment, and tech. If you want to make sense of our complex world, check out the daily questions and the answers on KEEN ON.
Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best-known technology and politics broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting KEEN ON, he is the host of the long-running show How To Fix Democracy and the author of four critically acclaimed books about the future, including the international bestselling CULT OF THE AMATEUR.
Keen On is free to listen to and will remain so. If you want to stay up-to-date on new episodes and support the show please subscribe to Andrew Keen’s Substack. Paid subscribers will soon be able to access exclusive content from our new series Keen On America. keenon.substack.com
Named as one of the "100 most connected men" by GQ magazine, Andrew Keen is amongst the world's best-known technology and politics broadcasters and commentators. In addition to presenting KEEN ON, he is the host of the long-running show How To Fix Democracy and the author of four critically acclaimed books about the future, including the international bestselling CULT OF THE AMATEUR.
Keen On is free to listen to and will remain so. If you want to stay up-to-date on new episodes and support the show please subscribe to Andrew Keen’s Substack. Paid subscribers will soon be able to access exclusive content from our new series Keen On America. keenon.substack.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 30, 2025 • 41min
From Carney to Epstein: Orderers vs Disorderers in our Age of Upheaval
In a thought-provoking conversation, Jason Pack, host of the Disorder podcast and a keen commentator on global geopolitics, discusses the evolving battle between 'orderers' and 'disorderers' in today's turbulent world. He asserts that Mark Carney emerged as a figure of stability in 2025, while predicts Epstein's re-emergence will stoke conspiracy fears in 2026. Pack emphasizes the dangers of ignoring elite unaccountability and warns against the rise of extremist movements, highlighting the need for a strong, technocratic approach to leadership.
Dec 29, 2025 • 50min
The China Paradox: Chris Schroeder on what America is Missing
Chris Schroeder, an entrepreneur and chair at the German Marshall Fund, shares firsthand insights from his recent travels in China. He emphasizes the importance of understanding nuance, contrasting China's dynamic hustle with Western media narratives. Schroeder discusses vibrant youth culture, advanced factory automation, and seamless digital transactions that challenge common assumptions. He also reflects on lessons America can learn from China's focus on delivery and long-term execution. Intriguingly, he compares China's rise to Japan's, emphasizing its unique scale and growing middle class.
Dec 28, 2025 • 42min
That Was The Year in Tech: When Nothing Happened (except Everything, Everywhere, All at Once)
Keith Teare, a tech entrepreneur and publisher known for his insights on Silicon Valley, discusses the paradox of 2025 as a year where nothing and yet everything happened. He highlights the fading skepticism around LLMs and argues that AI has become as essential as electricity. They predict significant shifts in tech as regulations adapt and funding consolidates among major players. Teare foresees AI transforming customer support, while education must evolve to integrate this technology. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on future developments in AI and tech leadership.
Dec 27, 2025 • 43min
Morbid Symptoms Abundant: The Demolition of Pax Americana
In this engaging discussion, Charles Kupchan, a Georgetown University professor and foreign policy expert, delves into the decaying state of the post-WWII international order. He criticizes Trump's 'demolition man' approach and highlights the alarming rise of autocratic regimes. Kupchan references Gramsci’s idea of an interregnum, where the old system falters and new solutions seem scarce. He advocates for a pragmatic, multilateral approach to foreign policy, underscoring the complexities of a multipolar future dominated by the US and China, with rising influences from India and Turkey.
Dec 26, 2025 • 48min
From Munich to Mar-a-Lago: Is Trump Appeasing Putin in Ukraine?
Jim Goldgeier, a scholar of U.S. foreign policy and Russia, dives deep into the complexities of the Ukraine conflict. He argues that Putin has no desire for peace unless it entails total control over Ukraine. Goldgeier critiques Trump's potential approach to negotiating with Putin, calling it appeasement. They discuss the necessity of raising the costs for Russia to push for a settlement and the critical role the U.S. plays in supporting Ukraine. Plus, he highlights the concerning rise of pro-Russian sentiment in Europe and the imperative for a stronger NATO.
Dec 25, 2025 • 40min
Americans Actually Dislike Each Other: The Unsavory Truth Behind the Data
Andrea Jones-Rooy, a data scientist and former NYU professor, dives into the fascinating yet unsettling truths about American society. She explains that while we may seem divided, it's often just a deep-seated dislike rather than genuine ideological disagreement. Jones-Rooy debunks myths about immigration, revealing that the undocumented population is smaller than perceived. She also discusses the shift from trusting institutions to media personalities and how emotional triggers like anger play into political engagement. Lastly, she emphasizes the need for curiosity and empathy to bridge divides.
Dec 24, 2025 • 53min
Cracked, Jagged and Leaderless: The World is No Longer Flat
Gary Gerstle, an economic historian and author of The Rise and Fall of the Neoliberal Order, discusses the decline of neoliberalism and the emergence of a jagged, leaderless world. He argues that Trump 2.0 signifies a shift from a flat world dominated by American ideals to one marked by rising borders and state capitalism. Gerstle examines the implications of presidential power, the challenges facing America's legal elites, and the chaotic nature of MAGA politics. He also expresses cautious optimism for a democratic response in this new landscape.
Dec 23, 2025 • 39min
2025: The AI Year Scripted by Gary Marcus in 2024
Gary Marcus, a cognitive scientist and AI researcher known for his critical views on AI models, dives into the realities of artificial intelligence. He discusses the limitations of large language models and the economic bubble around companies like OpenAI. Marcus predicts a turbulent future for AI in 2026, emphasizing the need for regulatory oversight and safer AI practices. He also highlights the competition between the U.S. and China and advocates for neurosymbolic approaches as the way forward. Will we finally see practical robots or merely demos? Tune in to find out!
Dec 22, 2025 • 38min
Justice is Round: Mussolini Couldn't Woo the World Cup, Neither Will Trump
Simon Kuper, an experienced football writer and World Cup historian, delves into the politics of the 2026 World Cup. He argues that efforts by figures like Trump to manipulate the tournament will fail, echoing Mussolini's past attempts. Kuper emphasizes the World Cup's role as a communal celebration over a political stage. He also discusses the importance of smaller nations, critiques high ticket prices, and explores the clash between local pride and celebrity culture. His insights on global football dynamics are as captivating as they are thought-provoking.
Dec 21, 2025 • 32min
Capitalism with a Nationalist Face: What Comes after Neoliberalism
Branko Milanovic, a renowned economist and former World Bank lead researcher, discusses his insights on the shift from neoliberalism to a nationalism-infused capitalism. He introduces the concept of 'homoploutia,' a new elite class that has emerged, blending wealth from both capital and labor. Milanovic argues that economic grievances fuel this rise of nationalism, while comparing the similarities and tensions between U.S. and Chinese capitalist models. He also reflects on the historical context of nationalism and its moral implications for society.
