ChinaTalk

Chris Miller teaches at Tufts University and is a leading expert on Russian affairs, known for his book "Putinomics." He delves into the motivations behind Putin's invasion of Ukraine, discussing his isolated decisions and the disarray within his security council. The conversation also touches on the impact of sanctions on the Russian economy and the changing political sentiments in Russia, drawing parallels with historical events like Nazi Germany. Additionally, Miller explores the intricate dynamics of the Russia-China tech trade amid ongoing global tensions.

Justin Sherman, a Fellow at the Atlantic Council, delves into Putin's historical use of cyber operations during conflicts, like in Georgia and Crimea. He analyzes Russia's current cyber warfare tactics amid the war in Ukraine, highlighting the Kremlin's strategic restraint in major cyber offensives. Sherman discusses the intricate ties between the Russian government and cyber criminal networks, questioning whether recent arrests are genuine or mere political theater. He also emphasizes the complexities faced by Western leaders in responding to these evolving cyber threats.

Casey Handmer, a former NASA Jet Propulsion Lab system architect and founder of Terraform Industries, takes listeners on a journey through the future of space exploration. He discusses how Starlink could enhance internet access in developing countries and critiques the US immigration system for hindering scientific talent acquisition. The conversation then shifts to the costs of sending humans to Mars and the innovative engineering behind SpaceX's Starship. Handmer advocates for a balance between public-sector support and private innovation in the evolving space ecosystem.

Andrew Methven, author of the Slow Chinese Substack, dives into the colorful world of Chinese internet slang. He breaks down quirky phrases like 'rainbow farts' and reveals how gaming terms have crept into political discussions. The conversation uncovers the connection between slang and societal issues, including the evolution of language driven by social media. Methven also shares insights on the funny side of learning Chinese, highlighting valuable resources for language enthusiasts.

Peter Martin, author of "China's Civilian Army: The Making of Wolf Warrior Diplomacy," joins Schwarzman scholar Jason Zhou to explore the evolution of China's diplomatic style. They discuss the youthful diplomats of the '80s and how their ethos transformed into the assertive 'Wolf Warrior' approach today. Fascinating tidbits arise, from Xi Jinping's in-laws to the significance of Tiananmen in shaping modern strategies. The duo also humorously touches on why Chinese right-wingers send calcium pills to the foreign ministry. It's a deep dive into the nuances of nationalistic rhetoric in diplomacy.

Peter Martin, author of "China’s Civilian Army: The Making of Wolf Warrior Diplomacy," dives into the evolution of China's foreign ministry's strategies. He discusses the historical challenges faced by diplomats transitioning from guerrilla leaders to representatives abroad. The conversation reveals how personal memoirs provide insight into the complexities of Chinese diplomacy, especially during politically turbulent times like the Cultural Revolution. Martin highlights the nuanced relationships with the Soviet Union and the impact of ideological shifts on China's diplomatic identity.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Barnhart, a history professor and author, teams up with Tanner Greer, an insightful essayist. They delve into the motivations behind Japan's imperial ambitions and its quest for resource self-sufficiency. The conversation highlights FDR's concerns about Japan's possible invasion of the USSR and the alarming miscalculations that escalated tensions leading to World War II. Insights into the bureaucratic influences and innovative educational methods, like historical simulations, round out this captivating exploration of historical geopolitics.

The hosts share their renewed passion for home cooking, emphasizing how special ingredients elevate meals to gourmet experiences. Delving into creativity as a coping mechanism, they highlight the therapeutic nature of Chinese landscape painting and personal growth through literature. The evolution of the podcast is celebrated, with a focus on objective analysis in U.S.-China relations. Future collaborations, listener support, and a tribute to a recently deceased historian reveal their ambitious plans moving forward. An enlightening exploration of China's historical context enriches the conversation.

Xiran Jay Zhao, a New York Times bestselling author known for her novel 'Iron Widow,' dives into the fascinating world of her sci-fi reimagining of Wu Zetian. She shares intriguing insights about Chinese history hidden in her work and her viral rise on YouTube after analyzing cultural themes in 'Mulan.' The discussion also critiques Confucianism and its negative impacts on women's roles, while revealing how censorship affects creativity in C-dramas. It's an engaging mix of history, feminism, and modern storytelling.

Yangyang Cheng, a Yale Law School postdoc and particle physicist, shares her insights on the complexities of US-China scientific relations. She discusses the emotional toll of geopolitical tensions, the challenges faced by Chinese scientists, and the implications of language in this discourse. Cheng critiques terms like 'brain drain' and examines the need for ethical considerations in science. Together with Alex Liang, they advocate for recognizing the humanity behind the politics, stressing the importance of collaboration over competition.