ChinaTalk

Jose Luis Ricón Fernández de la Puente, an independent researcher known for his keen insights on industrial policy, dives into a range of captivating topics. He challenges the notion that the state solely birthed innovations like the iPhone, while exploring Taiwan's strategic importance in tech. The flaws in U.S. research funding and its impact on innovation are dissected, alongside an intriguing discussion on the societal effects of Mormonism. Plus, he shares strategies for longevity, emphasizing diet and exercise over fleeting fads.

Chris Thomas and Steph Lee, creators of the hit YouTube channel for authentic Chinese recipes, dive into the complexities of Chinese cooking. They discuss how they make intricate recipes accessible while preserving authenticity. The duo explores the growing fascination with baking in China, contrasting it with traditional cooking methods. They also highlight the regional diversity of Chinese cuisine and the significance of cultural culinary heritage in modern cooking. Their insights into the evolving landscape of cooking content make for a delightful listen!

Richard Fontaine, CEO of CNAS and a leading voice in national security, dives deep into U.S.-China relations. He discusses Biden’s foreign policy strategies, touching on human rights issues and climate cooperation. Fontaine shares insights from his debates with Ely Ratner and the influence of tech on policy. He also reveals his passion for faith-centered studies and reflects on the evolving identity and purpose in contemporary China. Plus, stick around for a humorous take on parenting and grocery delivery!

Maggie Lewis, a law professor specializing in Taiwan, and Lev Nachman, a PhD student focused on Taiwanese politics, dive into the complexities of U.S.-Taiwan relations under the Biden administration. They discuss the challenges facing the KMT party, shifting generational dynamics, and the rise of indigenous musical voices like Abao. Additionally, they explore Taiwan's educational opportunities during COVID-19 and the broader implications of social movements and asylum policies. Their engaging conversation is laced with humor and insightful analysis.

Rob Atkinson, President of ITIF and a leading voice on tech and innovation policy, shares insights on U.S. industrial strategy amid China's rise. He discusses the urgent need for America to boost its technological competitiveness and critiques past economic ideologies. The conversation dives into navigating complex global trade dynamics and the necessity of stronger international alliances. Atkinson also emphasizes the importance of expertise in government to tackle strategic industries and proposes the creation of a National Technology Council to bolster innovation.

Rana Mitter, a Professor of Chinese history at Oxford, delves into China's World War II legacy and its effect on modern nationalism. He discusses how the recent film 'The Eight Hundred' reflects a changing narrative around this pivotal period. Mitter emphasizes the shift in historical recognition, comparing the significance of 1945 to 1949. He also highlights the once-stigmatized Kuomintang heroes and how oral histories help preserve their stories. Intriguingly, he draws parallels between China's suffering during the war and Holocaust narratives, exploring their impact on current diplomatic relations.

Matt Brazil, a historian and co-author of 'Chinese Communist Espionage, An Intelligence Primer,' discusses the intricate history of the Chinese Communist Party's use of espionage. He highlights key events like the assassination attempt on Zhou Enlai and how such acts shaped public perception. Brazil contrasts China’s state security evolution under Deng Xiaoping with Western intelligence strategies. He also dives into the humor of economic espionage consulting, and shares insights on the impact of supercomputers on surveillance and military tactics.

Richard Danzig, former Secretary of the Navy and current senior fellow at Johns Hopkins, delves into the intricate dynamics of U.S.-China relations. He discusses the implications of trade policies on military risks and the strategic necessity for a 500-ship Navy. Danzig explores the contrasting approaches of U.S. and Chinese firms, questioning risk tolerance and the balance of openness versus security. He also shares unique fiction recommendations, offering listeners a creative respite from geopolitics, emphasizing the richness of storytelling.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Brown, the Director of the Defense Innovation Unit, shares insights from his extensive experience in tech leadership. He highlights the rising threat of industrial espionage and the need for strategic collaboration in U.S.-China tech competition. Brown emphasizes the importance of advancing basic research and adapting military procurement to keep pace with innovation. The conversation also covers the nuances of research methodologies in both nations and the urgency for the U.S. to form solid strategies to maintain technological leadership amid rapid change.

Neil Thomas, a research associate at the Paulson Institute's MacroPolo, offers deep insights into Chinese business and politics. He dives into KFC's remarkable marketing strategies that helped it thrive in China. Thomas discusses the fascinating 'Toilet Revolution' sparked by tourist complaints, transforming public sanitation. He also explores the evolution of Chinese propaganda under Xi Jinping, highlighting how storytelling methods blend with media. The conversation is lively, reflecting on fast food culture with a humorous rap that critiques the chicken served.