ChinaTalk

Ben Smith, editor-in-chief of Semafor and author of 'Traffic', dives into the world of Chinese and Taiwanese TV with hosts Jordan and Irene. They explore a range of crime and police dramas while discussing the cultural implications of policing in China versus the U.S. The conversation shifts to co-productions and unique narratives, including a poignant Taiwanese miniseries about a mass shooting. They also analyze character motivations in journalism, contrasting personal struggles with media portrayals, all while showcasing the complexities of storytelling in a rapidly evolving region.

Margaret Palmieri, the Deputy Chief Digital Artificial Intelligence Officer at the DOD, dives into the transformative role of AI in military settings. She discusses the tension between innovation and diffusion of AI technologies. Challenges like data accessibility and the need for organizational change are front and center. Palmieri emphasizes the importance of integrating AI into workflows while maintaining human oversight and accountability. Despite bureaucratic hurdles, she expresses optimism about tech advancements in defense strategies, highlighting insights from recent conflicts like Ukraine.

Discover the vibrant world of Chinese music in 2023 as innovative artists shine across diverse genres. From the postmodernist rock of Tation to the soulful pop-rock of A Wordless Orange, the variety is rich. Explore themes of identity, emotional struggles, and the communal joy found in rap culture. The podcast delves into how contemporary music reflects societal issues while connecting listeners to nature's beauty and personal reflections. Join in on this musical journey that showcases both emerging talents and the evolution of sound in modern China.

Ryan Hauser, Editor of ChinaTalk, reflects on his first year of full-time podcasting. He discusses the challenges of content creation amid evolving audience preferences, particularly in the context of U.S.-China relations. Listeners get insights into the podcast's most popular episodes and the contrasting narratives of Taiwanese and mainland Chinese television, including a serious political drama and a lighthearted reality show. Hauser also touches on the impact of literature on personal expression and wraps up with a tribute to cultural connection through music.

Brad Setser, a Fellow at CFR and former USTR staffer, discusses critical topics surrounding US-China relations and trade. He breaks down China's growth trajectory and its implications for global power dynamics. Setser delves into the intricacies of debt negotiations involving countries like Zambia and Argentina, highlighting the significance of trade agreements. The conversation also touches on 'panda diplomacy' and the economic factors influencing China's domestic market, including pork prices and the balance of trade.

Kevin Xu, creator of the Interconnected Substack and a prominent voice on US-China tech relations, dives into the biggest tech stories of 2023. He discusses the fierce ongoing chip war and the race for AI model dominance. Xu highlights the booming electric vehicle market in China and the rise of platforms like PDD and Temu. TikTok's resilience amidst regulatory scrutiny also gets a spotlight, showcasing its unexpected staying power in an ever-evolving tech landscape.

Lin Fei-fan, former Deputy Secretary General of Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party and Sunflower Movement leader, joins Lu Yeh-chung, a diplomacy professor, to dissect Taiwan's upcoming presidential election. They discuss the implications of a three-party race and the KMT-TPP alliance's collapse. The conversation explores differing views on cross-strait relations, the importance of identity, and domestic issues like economic growth and employment. They also debate balancing military and tech investments for national security amidst increasing regional tensions.

Mike Gallagher, Chair of the Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the U.S. and China, shares his insights on fixing Congress. He discusses the relevance of the early Cold War and draws lessons from his military service in Iraq. Gallagher emphasizes the importance of clear writing in policymaking and reflects on decision-making dynamics in geopolitics, particularly in relation to China. He critiques contemporary legislative dysfunction and advocates for reforms to enhance governance and understanding of complex political issues.

Rohit Krishnan, a former investor and writer at Strange Loop Canon, dives into the recent tumult at OpenAI and its ripple effects on U.S.-China relations. He unpacks the leadership crisis spurred by the firing of CEO Sam Altman and the ensuing power struggle. The conversation shifts to the geopolitical landscape of AI, particularly contrasting advancements in the U.S. and China. Rohit also emphasizes the need for strategic regulation that fosters innovation while ensuring safety, highlighting the complex dynamics at play.

Matt Turpin, former China NSC Director and current fellow at Hoover and Palantir, dives into the intricate dynamics of US-China relations post-APEC. He discusses realistic expectations for diplomacy and the essential ingredients for coherent policymaking. Turpin shares insights on the implications of a potential second Trump administration, emphasizing the need for strong leadership and unified strategies. The conversation also touches on the importance of philanthropy in national security and the challenges media face in reporting on China.