GZERO World with Ian Bremmer

Dive into the transformative power of space in everyday life. Discussions highlight the implications of space control on national security and military tech. The podcast also unveils cutting-edge medical innovations driven by space technology. Hear from leading experts as they unpack the risks and opportunities of this new Space Age, setting the stage for exciting future explorations.

Thomas L. Friedman, a New York Times columnist and expert on Middle Eastern affairs, shares his insights on the recent Israel-Iran conflict and its ramifications. He discusses how Iran emerged weaker despite claims of survival, and how Netanyahu secured political gains through military action. The dialogue examines Trump's foreign policy victories, the impact on Gaza, and the complexities of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Friedman urges a focus on Israeli-Palestinian relations, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions amidst ongoing tensions.

Join Jason Kelly, co-founder of Ginkgo Bioworks, and Dawn Meyerriecks, former CIA Deputy Director for Science and Technology, as they delve into the pivotal role of life sciences in national security. They explore the dual-use potential of biotechnology and the urgent need for ethical oversight amid rising geopolitical tensions. Key topics include pandemic preparedness, the importance of vaccine production, and wastewater monitoring for viral trends. Their conversation emphasizes the necessity for innovation and investment to safeguard national resilience against emerging biological threats.

Homi Kharas, Senior Fellow at Brookings and co-founder of the World Data Lab, joins Shamina Singh, founder of the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, to discuss the booming global middle class and its impact on small businesses. They explore how small enterprises are vital for economic growth and job creation, alongside the challenges faced by 'strivers' in emerging markets. The duo highlights the importance of digital inclusion, e-commerce, and AI in empowering small businesses, ensuring they thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.

Emily Bazelon, a Yale Law School professor and New York Times Magazine staff writer, discusses the unprecedented shift in U.S. governance under Trump. She analyzes his extensive use of executive orders and the resulting pressure on the judiciary. With Congress sidelined, she highlights how the courts are responding to this challenge, emphasizing their crucial role and recent significant rulings. The conversation also touches on the politicization of the judiciary and the implications for the rule of law as tensions between the branches of government escalate.

Journalist Ben Smith, co-founder of Semafor and former editor-in-chief of BuzzFeed News, dives into the tumultuous relationship between Donald Trump and Elon Musk. He analyzes their messy fallout, revealing how it reflects broader trends in politics and tech. The discussion touches on Trump's influence over GOP funding and Musk's business ties, exploring how their power dynamics could reshape political journalism. As their bromance fades, what does this mean for future interactions between Silicon Valley and Washington?

Bonny Lin, Director of the China Power Project at CSIS, dives deep into the escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait. She discusses Taiwan's defense strategies under President William Lai, who aims to strengthen ties with the U.S. while facing political challenges at home. The conversation highlights China's aggressive military exercises and their implications for global stability. Lin also sheds light on the shifting perceptions of Taiwan's youth toward Western values amidst increasing Chinese pressure, revealing the delicate balance of sovereignty and security.

In a compelling talk with Ian Bremmer, Father James Martin, a Jesuit priest and bestselling author, delves into the historic election of Pope Leo XIV, the first North American pontiff. He discusses how Leo XIV might unite progressives and traditionalists within the Church, citing his early stances on war and migration. Martin emphasizes the Pope's advocacy for LGBTQ Catholics, particularly the trans community, and reflects on Pope Francis's lasting influence. With a clear mandate, Martin envisions Leo XIV as a bridge-builder amid global and internal divisions.

In this episode, Daniel Kokotajlo, a former OpenAI researcher and executive director of the AI Futures Project, shares vital insights from the AI 2027 report. He discusses the alarming pace at which artificial general intelligence (AGI) is developing, predicting an 80% chance of its emergence within five to six years. Kokotajlo emphasizes the potential for either a dystopian or utopian future due to AGI and warns about the concentration of power within a few tech firms. He calls for democratic oversight and transparency to mitigate existential risks.

Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen shares insights from his visit to El Salvador, where he addressed the wrongful deportation of Maryland resident Kilmar Abrego Garcia. He critiques the Trump administration's policies, arguing that financial incentives have distorted justice. Van Hollen stresses the importance of due process and the need for evidence-based immigration policies. He also discusses America's global leadership retreat and the harmful effects of chaotic trade policies on small businesses, calling for a vision that supports working people.