Geopolitical Economy Report
Ben Norton
Geopolitical Economy Report is an independent news outlet that provides original journalism and analysis to understand the changing world.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 8, 2026 • 30min
USA admits it lied about Venezuela drug trafficking - while CIA supported cartels
The podcast exposes the U.S. government's misleading claims about Venezuela, particularly the fabricated 'Cartel de los Soles.' It reveals how Trump's administration aimed to seize Venezuelan oil while perpetuating a narrative of drug trafficking that the DOJ later admitted was false. The CIA's historical involvement in drug trafficking in Latin America surfaces, along with connections to allied leaders in multiple countries. The discussion ties these events to imperialistic policies, shedding light on the political hypocrisy surrounding the U.S. drug war.

Jan 6, 2026 • 37min
Blatant colonialism: Trump says USA will 'run' Venezuela and take its oil
The discussion revolves around Donald Trump's declaration to 'run' Venezuela and take its oil, highlighting the U.S. military's aggressive actions. Trump's remarks about exploiting infrastructure and resources raise eyebrows. Historical context is provided, detailing past U.S. interventions and coup attempts. The podcast critiques the rebranding of the Monroe Doctrine as a means of asserting dominance. It also addresses the implications for other Latin American countries and the overarching theme of imperial ambitions.

6 snips
Jan 4, 2026 • 42min
The real reason why Trump bombed Venezuela and abducted President Maduro
The podcast dives into the shocking U.S. actions against Venezuela, including the alleged kidnapping of President Maduro and the bombing of the country. It explores the real motivations behind U.S. aggression, highlighting geopolitical strategies and the revival of the Monroe Doctrine. The discussion reveals how Venezuela's rich oil and critical minerals are at the center of U.S. imperial ambitions. Additionally, the podcast critiques U.S. claims of promoting democracy, exposing the hypocrisy in their alliances and interventions across Latin America.

13 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 40min
Dedollarization grows: Countries drop dollar assets, as gold overtakes US Treasury bonds
The trend of de-dollarization is accelerating, with countries and investors moving away from the US dollar. Central banks are increasingly buying gold, which has now surpassed US Treasury holdings as a reserve asset. Washington's sanctions and tariffs have backfired, prompting nations to seek alternatives in finance. The emergence of payment systems like BRICS Pay and the growing internationalization of the renminbi highlight the shift toward a multipolar financial order. This dynamic is reshaping global trade and investment landscapes.

Dec 29, 2025 • 32min
The US supported a coup in this country to hurt China & help Israel
In a deep dive into Cold War Two, the U.S. pressures nations to cut ties with China while supporting pro-Taiwan candidates. Notably, Donald Trump's alleged meddling in Honduras aims to install a right-wing leader who favors Israel. The podcast explores the historical context of U.S. interference in Latin America and details the electoral maneuvers in Honduras, emphasizing evidence of fraud and manipulation. The dynamics between Honduras, the U.S., Taiwan, and Israel highlight a broader strategy to reshape geopolitical alliances.

Dec 26, 2025 • 30min
USA is the worst pirate on Earth: Trump boasts of stealing Venezuela's oil
The podcast delves into the U.S. government's seizure of Venezuelan oil, emphasizing accusations of piracy. Trump’s boast about 'keeping' the oil highlights the blatant disregard for international law. Discussions touch on the U.S. blockade's legality, threats to Venezuela's leadership, and the revival of colonial doctrines aimed at resource control. China's support for Venezuela and parallels with historical imperialism add depth to the analysis. The conversation underscores the U.S. military’s ties to corporate interests and the ongoing quest for dominance in Latin America.

12 snips
Dec 18, 2025 • 21min
Trump admits he wants to take Venezuela's oil — and give it to US corporations
The conversation dives into Donald Trump's bold claim about seizing Venezuela's oil for U.S. corporations, revealing underlying colonial motives. Discussions cover the historical context of Venezuela's oil nationalization and the impact of U.S. sanctions, portrayed as illegal by UN experts. Insights into Trump's coup attempts and the naval blockade highlight the aggressive tactics employed. The episode critiques media narratives and questions the legitimacy of U.S. interests while framing it as a modern imperialist strategy.

Dec 15, 2025 • 38min
US influence in Latin America grows: Nazi-tied, pro-Israel, anti-China candidate wins Chile election
The podcast dives into the election of Chile's far-right president, José Antonio Kast, whose father had Nazi ties. It examines U.S. interventions in Latin America, particularly the resurgence of pro-U.S. regimes promoting neoliberal policies. Kast's admiration for Donald Trump and former dictator Pinochet raises alarm over regional stability. The discussion also highlights Chile's strategic resources, like lithium and copper, and the implications of rising far-right influence across Latin America.

Dec 11, 2025 • 1h 10min
What is Socialism with Chinese Characteristics? This is how China's economic model works
Ben Norton, a political journalist focusing on geopolitics and global economy, dives deep into China's unique model of 'socialism with Chinese characteristics.' He discusses how China evolved into the world's largest economy and revolutionized poverty reduction. Norton illuminates Deng Xiaoping's reforms, state ownership dynamics, and the strategy of 'grasp the big, let go of the small.' He also explores the implications of China's industrial policy for global value chains, its green energy advancements, and contrasting governance perceptions. It's a captivating analysis of a complex economic landscape.

8 snips
Dec 7, 2025 • 1h 9min
This is the US empire's new strategy for global dominance
Explore the U.S. National Security Strategy's ambitious push for global dominance! Delve into plans for nearshoring manufacturing to Latin America and reviving the Monroe Doctrine. Discover how the U.S. aims to decouple from China and foster military strength in the face of a new Cold War. Hear about Marco Rubio's role in shaping these policies and the implications for U.S.-Russia relations. Uncover the geopolitics of resource control and the strategy behind dollar dominance as America recalibrates its global influence.


