Dr. Steve Tsang discusses Xi Jinping thought and its goals for China's national rejuvenation. He explains Xi's desire for a prominent global role, centralizing power, and reshaping international order. Tsang shares insights on deterring Xi Jinping and contrasts his ideology with past CCP leaders.

Dr. Sheena Chestnut Greitens discusses Xi Jinping's 'Comprehensive National Security concept' with over 20 components, emphasizing preventive security measures. The podcast explores China's national security system, Xi's approach to regime stability, citizen mobilization, surveillance technology, and its impact on foreign policy decisions.

Exploring China's perspective on the Israel-Hamas conflict and Red Sea tensions, discussing Chinese blame on the US, lack of action in response, and potential for broader escalation. Mr. Tuvia Gering analyzes China's strategy, economic interests, and reluctance to work with the United States in the Middle East crises.

Dr. Matthew Funaiole and Mr. Brian Hart discuss Hidden Reach's analysis of China's growing influence abroad, addressing topics such as civilian research vessels, ground stations in South America, and the role of satellite imagery in open-source intelligence. They explore China's military civil fusion strategy, its efforts to displace US influence, and upcoming research projects.

Mr. Hans Kristensen, expert on China's nuclear capabilities, discusses China's expanding nuclear stockpile and its modernization campaign. He addresses the uncertainties surrounding China's nuclear program, its potential escalation scenarios, and the credibility of its 'no first use' policy. He also explores China's interest in tactical nuclear weapons and compares Chinese, Russian, and US planners' objectives. The episode highlights the recent arms control talks between the US and China and the importance of monitoring China's nuclear development.

Elbridge Colby, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy and Force Development, discusses US strategic competition with China, focusing on the PRC military threat and the need to equip allies for military deterrence. He highlights debates within the Republican party on how much to focus on China and advocates prioritizing the PRC in force planning and relationships with allies. The podcast also explores China's preparation for conflict, concerns about the Biden administration's policy in Asia, and the importance of clear public statements and a military build-up to defend Taiwan.

Two leading experts, Dr. Tong Zhao and Dr. Fiona Cunningham, debate whether China's expanding nuclear arsenal represents a shift in China's nuclear strategy. They discuss China's evolving view on nuclear weapons, its pursuit of escalation management capability, and the implications of its accelerated nuclear expansion. The debate also covers China's nuclear deterrent system, advanced warhead technology, and the role of nuclear weapons in a Taiwan contingency. Lastly, they explore the connection between China's non-nuclear strategic capabilities and its nuclear strategy.

Debate on whether the US and China are in a new Cold War. Topics covered include the clash of interests and competition between the two countries, the ideological dimension of their relationship, the need for clarity in defining a Cold War, and the role of ideology and multipolarity in the international system.

Experts debate whether China is more likely to blockade or invade Taiwan in the next ten years. They discuss reasons for a blockade, including military capabilities and potential scenarios. They analyze China's strategies and the challenges involved, as well as the potential consequences and economic costs of a blockade. The podcast concludes with a poll on whether views have changed after the debate.

Ms. Bonnie Glaser and Mr. Chad Sbragia discuss Xi Jinping's determination to reunify with Taiwan, exploring his signaling and approach, the risks of conflict, China's integration initiative, challenges in the PLA, implications of upcoming elections, China's military options, and communication challenges.