The Jacob Shapiro Podcast

The conversation dives into China's new export restrictions on critical minerals, igniting discussions on international trade and geopolitical tensions. With the U.S. still dependent on imports, the challenges of accessing essential materials are made clear. The duo explores how sustainable practices in mining clash with public perception and political priorities. Additionally, they ponder the legacy of wartime innovations that shaped modern metallurgy and question the future of metal refining amidst a rapidly changing market.

Matt Gertken, Chief Geopolitical Strategist at BCA Research and former Stratfor analyst, discusses a pivotal shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Europe amidst the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He debates the potential implications of Turkey's role in the Black Sea and examines whether Russia might set its sights on invading the Baltics. Gertken also analyzes the political complexities in Germany and delves into the delicate tensions between Iran, Israel, and the U.S., all while highlighting China's influence in the Middle East.

Narath Carlile, a physician and healthcare innovator teaching at Harvard, sheds light on time management and human flourishing. He discusses the challenges of work-life balance in healthcare, emphasizing the impact of AI and informatics on personal productivity. Narath shares insights on combating burnout and achieving 'deep success' over shallow achievements. He advocates for empathy within the healthcare system and highlights the importance of reclaiming personal time in a fast-paced world. The conversation is a blend of personal stories and practical strategies for well-being.

Emma Pennisi, a seasoned veteran in the USAID domain, offers a deep dive into the decline of the agency and its broader implications for U.S. global influence. She discusses the origins and controversies surrounding USAID and highlights the risks of a diminished focus on global health initiatives. Pennisi shares personal stories showing the transformative impact of foreign aid, emphasizing the dangers posed by potential power vacuums. The conversation ultimately calls for a renewed understanding of the importance of humanitarian efforts amidst shifting political landscapes.

Daryl Ritchison, the North Dakota State Climatologist and Director of the North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network, dives into the fascinating world of weather dynamics. He discusses the unusual snowfall in the Gulf and its historical significance. The conversation shifts to how a weak La Niña influences weather patterns and the intricate effects of the negative Pacific Decadal Oscillation. Ritchison also highlights weather's critical role in agriculture and its geopolitical impacts, particularly regarding winter wheat production in Russia and global trade dynamics.

--Timestamps:(00:07) - Intro(00:30) - Monetize the asset side of the balance sheet(17:18) - Bitcoin(25:00) - Debt(32:17) - Macro looks at England, India, Brazil, China(41:40) - Indonesia's Future: Opportunities and Risks(53:42) - Gaza and Analyzing Trump's Negotiation Strategy--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapCI Site: cognitive.investmentsSubscribe to the Newsletter: bit.ly/weekly-sitrep--The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.Cognitive Investments is an investment advisory firm, founded in 2019 that provides clients with a nuanced array of financial planning, investment advisory and wealth management services. We aim to grow both our clients’ material wealth (i.e. their existing financial assets) and their human wealth (i.e. their ability to make good strategic decisions for their business, family, and career).--

The conversation dives into the chaos of recent global events, from Luka Doncic's trade to Trump's tariff threats. With a creative NBA metaphor, they explore the intricate political landscape and negotiation strategies among nations. The hosts critique contemporary tariff policies and examine the multipolar world’s shifting dynamics. They reflect on the changing perception of U.S. foreign policy and the evolving role of institutions. Humor lightens the weighty topics, leading to an exciting announcement about their upcoming podcast.

Jacek Bartosiak, founder of Strategy&Future and a distinguished geopolitical analyst from Poland, brings his sharp insights to the discussion. He argues that a systemic global war is already unfolding, emphasizing the implications for the U.S. if it falls into hubris. The conversation covers the precarious state of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, evolving EU dynamics post-Brexit, and the shifting influences of China and Russia. Bartosiak also warns of the need for Europe to reclaim agency and prioritizes peace over war in shaping future global stability.

This discussion dives into the shake-up in the tech market caused by Deep Seek, a Chinese AI company, and its implications for U.S.-China relations. A closer look at Nvidia reveals how AI rivalry is shaping investor sentiment. The conversation shifts to the importance of decentralized tech and explores the intricate economic ties between the U.S. and Mexico. Amid geopolitical tensions, they emphasize Mexico's growing significance in trade and the future of U.S. foreign policy.

Jacob discusses several key geopolitical developments, focusing on President Trump's recent inauguration and the implications of his trade policies. Notably, Trump did not immediately raise tariffs on China as anticipated, signaling a potential shift towards negotiation rather than confrontation in international trade. Shapiro also highlights the significance of Secretary of State Marco Rubio's first diplomatic visit to Panama, suggesting it could mark a renewed focus on Latin America. Additionally, he reflects on Ursula von der Leyen's remarks at Davos regarding the complexities of global trade and the need for Europe to establish a more cohesive capital market. Throughout the discussion, Shapiro emphasizes the importance of adaptability and resilience in navigating today's unpredictable geopolitical landscape.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Intro(02:03) - Navigating a New Administration's Trade Policies(10:17) - The Future of European Integration(13:44) - Current Events in the Democratic Republic of Congo(19:21) - Resilience in a Changing World--Referenced in the Show:--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapCI Site: cognitive.investmentsSubscribe to the Newsletter: bit.ly/weekly-sitrep--The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.Cognitive Investments is an investment advisory firm, founded in 2019 that provides clients with a nuanced array of financial planning, investment advisory and wealth management services. We aim to grow both our clients’ material wealth (i.e. their existing financial assets) and their human wealth (i.e. their ability to make good strategic decisions for their business, family, and career).--