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
Jan 6, 2026 • 46min
Societies on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown
Brink Lindsey, a senior executive at the Niskanen Center and author residing in Thailand, dives deep into the societal effects of abundance versus scarcity. He reflects on Keynes' prediction of modern societies experiencing nervous breakdowns amid prosperity. Lindsey discusses falling birthrates and demographic challenges, and defines human flourishing as realizing one's full potential. He warns against distractions of consumerism while exploring how AI could disrupt job markets. Ultimately, he advocates for pluralistic communities and reforms to make capitalism work for everyone.
Jan 5, 2026 • 49min
The School of Misery: The Children of a Manufactured Miracle
In this enlightening conversation, Erica L. Green, a New York Times education reporter and co-author of *Miracle Children*, teams up with investigative journalist Katie Benner. They delve into the troubling realities of T.M. Landry, a school once hailed as a miracle but marred by exploitation and deceit. Topics include the manipulation of student narratives in college applications, the racial dynamics at play, and the complexities surrounding the school's founders. Their insights challenge conventional notions of success in education and illuminate the systemic issues that need urgent reform.
Jan 5, 2026 • 32min
WTF Will Happen in 2026?
In this insightful discussion, Charles Kupchan critiques the impact of Trump on U.S. global leadership, while warning about the dangers of losing the balance between idealism and realism in foreign policy. Soli Ozel explores Europe's challenges and Turkey's strategic opportunities in a multipolar world, alongside regional tensions with Iran. Chris Schroeder highlights the competitive landscape of China and America, emphasizing the need for innovative governance. Together, these experts paint a complex picture of the geopolitical landscape leading into 2026.
Jan 3, 2026 • 45min
Why Smart People Still Believe in God
Daniel K. Williams, a historian and scholar of American Christianity, dives into the intriguing interplay between faith and reason. He argues that enlightenment ideals and Christian beliefs have coexisted in U.S. history, with figures like Jefferson and early Puritans blending rational thought and faith. Williams discusses how Darwin's theories challenged but did not extinguish belief in God, emphasizing religion's crucial role in moral frameworks. He also reflects on the dynamics between modern evangelicals and mainline Protestants, envisioning a future where rational faith thrives.
Jan 2, 2026 • 38min
The All-Collar Crisis: When White Collar Work Meets Blue-Collar Reality
Julia Hobsbawm, founder of Workathon.io and a prominent voice on the future of work, discusses the looming crisis for white-collar workers in an AI-driven world. She predicts by 2030, half of the U.S. workforce will be freelance, reshaping job security. Julia highlights the connection between geopolitics and employment, the rise of gig work, and the need for corporate leaders to foster trust through genuine storytelling. With echoes of history, she emphasizes that crises can birth opportunities, urging a global roadmap for the future of work.
Jan 1, 2026 • 55min
Keen on America: Andrew Reflects on 2025 & 2026
In this conversation, David Masciotra, a journalist and cultural critic, interviews Andrew Keen about the outlook for 2026. Keen shares his surprisingly optimistic view on America’s future, despite concerns like the growing wealth gap and Trump's controversial policies. They discuss the shift from social media to AI as a dominant force, and the vibrant cultural landscape of 2025 in films and literature. Keen also touches on the resilience of democracy and the need for Democrats to embrace innovation, all while hinting at the potential ramifications of cryptocurrency scandals.
Dec 31, 2025 • 46min
The Istanbul Perspective: A Time for Monsters and Middle Powers
Soli Özel, a political commentator from Istanbul with expertise in Turkish geopolitics, delves into the shifting multipolar world and Turkey's emerging role as a middle power. He discusses how managing vulnerabilities will be crucial for global influence, contrasts America's self-image with its current foreign policy, and critiques performative diplomacy during turbulent times. Özel also evaluates the prospects for peace in Ukraine and the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, offering insights into what 2026 might hold for global stability.
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.
