ChinaTalk

Yan Qin, a lead analyst at Refinitiv specializing in carbon markets and China's energy policy, joins to unravel the complexities behind China's recent energy blackouts. They discuss the authenticity of China's climate pledges and the significant shift of industries moving westward. The conversation dives into the challenges of balancing energy reliability with sustainability, while also touching upon the critical role of global cooperation in combating climate change. Qin sheds light on the intricate dynamics between U.S.-China climate collaborations and public awareness surrounding these pressing issues.

Lisa Porter, a seasoned expert in national security science and technology, provides invaluable insights into the Department of Defense's R&D dynamics. She discusses how the Pentagon lacks the error correction of free markets, leading to inefficiencies. The conversation touches on why the U.S. lost its space launch dominance and the importance of empowering staff in government organizations. Porter also critiques the role of competition in defense procurement and the necessity for incorporating specialized expertise in technology development.

Blain Curcio, founder of Orbital Gateway Consulting, and Jean Deville, contributor to the China Aerospace Blog, dive into China's soaring ambitions in space. They highlight the rapid growth of China's space launch industry and the enthusiasm among its youth. The duo discusses China's innovative satellite constellations and the competitive landscape against Western companies. They also explore the influence of SpaceX on Chinese private space ventures and the optimistic vibe in the sector, showcasing a bright future for China's space exploration plans.

Logan Wright, an analyst at Rhodium Group specializing in the Chinese economy and real estate market, shares his insights on the Evergrande crisis and its implications for China's financial stability. He discusses the challenges faced by the property developer, the tightening regulations impacting the sector, and the broader economic ramifications. Wright also examines China's financial reforms amid rising credit risks and the long-term effects on global markets, emphasizing the urgent need for a strategic shift in the country's economic approach.

Julia Lovell, a prominent author known for her works on modern Chinese history, shares insights on the classic novel 'Journey to the West.' She delves into the origins of this literary masterpiece, focusing on the iconic character Sun Wukong. Lovell discusses Mao Zedong's surprising identification with the Monkey King and how adaptations during his reign censored over 90% of the story. The conversation also reveals the challenges of translating this rich text, highlighting themes of rebellion, humor, and cultural context.

Chris Miller, a history professor and Eurasia expert, joins independent researcher Kamil Galeev to explore Russia's evolving ambitions in East Asia. They dive into how the fur trade catalyzed Russian interests in Alaska and Hawaii. The conversation juxtaposes Russian expansion against China's historical stability, revealing key conflicts and dynamics. They also touch on the intrigues of Nikolai Rezanov's romantic endeavors in pursuit of trade. Unique anecdotes, like Mao's quirky shoe preferences, pepper this engaging discussion on imperial legacies and geopolitical implications.

Delve into China's shifting landscape with discussions on recent education and tech policies that spark government control and affect the middle class. Explore the wealth gap evolution since Mao's era and the Communist Party's balancing act. Unpack the tensions brewing between China and Australia, influenced by political spats and trade sanctions. Discover the transformative journey of launching a podcast, emphasizing the need for responsible analysis to foster informed global discussions about China's complexities.

Economist and historian Adam Tooze, known for his insights into 20th-century economic history, joins Matt Klein, co-host of the Overshoot newsletter, to dive into China's complex economic landscape. They discuss the CCP's human development achievements since 1949, the hyperinflation crisis from 1937 to 1949, and how past policies have shaped China's current economic strategies. Their analysis also touches on global economic trends and the potential implications for China's future in a rapidly changing world.

Eric Berger, a senior space editor at Ars Technica and author of "Liftoff," teams up with Corey Fitz, creator of the TaikoNautica newsletter, to dive into the revolutionary impact of SpaceX. They discuss how SpaceX almost faced failure early on and the intense commitment of its engineers. The conversation also touches on the unique challenges posed by the traditional space contracts, contrasting U.S. approaches with China's rapidly evolving space industry, all while exploring the crucial role of government support in fostering innovation.

Jake Eberts, the witty mind behind the @BadChinaTake account and a savvy China analyst in D.C., dives into the intriguing world of China Twitter. He spills the tea on his rise to infamy and the absurd conspiracy theories about his funding. Eberts reflects on the emotional toll of online interactions and the challenges of serious discourse amidst a sea of negativity. The conversation also unpacks the slippery narratives surrounding U.S.-China relations, urging a more nuanced perspective beyond simplistic views.