

Geopolitical Cousins
Jacob Shapiro & Marko Papic
Geopolitical Cousins throws together analysts Jacob Shapiro and Marko Papic for some of the most in-depth, off-the-wall geopolitical analysis in the world.
Episodes
Mentioned books

18 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 1h 24min
America Strikes Iran
Jacob and Marko dive into the U.S. bombings of Iranian nuclear sites, exploring historical patterns and potential consequences. They analyze the possibility of regime change and Iran's expected restraint, emphasizing the significance of the Strait of Hormuz. The hosts critique Trump's foreign policy instincts and discuss the complexities of a multipolar world. With cultural references and a sprinkle of humor, they tackle global implications and the cyclical nature of Middle Eastern conflicts, all while weaving in an unexpected tie to NBA dynamics.

12 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 42min
To Bomb or Not To Bomb
Marko and Jacob dive into the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, critiquing the U.S.'s military options and the complexities of intervention. They explore the delusions of political movements in America and dissect Europe’s unity amidst crises. The discussion touches on the failures of international agreements and advocates for a revamped global diplomatic model, humorously dubbed the 'Concert of Mar-a.' Finally, they analyze how charismatic leadership shapes global politics and the implications for future diplomacy.

8 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 2min
Israel Strikes Iran
In a gripping discussion, the hosts unpack Israel's military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, analyzing the potential for retaliation and the implications for U.S. strategy. They emphasize Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in the unfolding dynamics. Insights into Netanyahu's domestic pressures and the limited options for Iranian response reveal the fragile balance of power. Exploring historical parallels with military interventions in Syria and Serbia, they also navigate the complex relationships between the U.S., Israel, and Iran amidst rising tensions.

Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 34min
Manufactured Chaos
Marko and Jacob dive into the political chaos of ICE raids and protests in Los Angeles, revealing the media's role in amplifying the crisis. They dissect the hypocrisy surrounding immigration policies and the tensions between federal and state authority. Discussions turn to the evolution of populism in America, exploring how discontent may shift towards a centrist approach. They also analyze U.S.-China trade dynamics and reflect on how California's political maneuvers could signal deeper national divides, all while humorously highlighting the plight of self-driving cars.

15 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 1h 47min
The New Age of Making Stuff (or Pretending To)
Marko rants about AI doomers and the challenges of regulating the unknown. He and Jacob debate whether regulation stifles innovation or safeguards society, linking TikTok to historical treaties. The duo dives into U.S.-Mexico relations, highlighting AMLO's misperceptions, and explores the impact of narco geopolitics on trade and migration. Argentina’s economic chaos and skepticism of Western reactions add depth, ensuring a fast-paced and engaging discussion that zigzags through complex geopolitical issues.

May 29, 2025 • 1h 32min
Uber-Manliness
The discussion kicks off with a sharp critique of U.S. responses to Iran, showcasing Biden's steadiness amid chaos. The hosts hilariously connect Taylor Swift's influence to global politics. They dive deep into masculinity, contrasting traditional and modern views, while calling out toxic masculinity’s impact. Immigration policies take center stage, with a humorous look at the contrast between the West and Russia. Finally, the complexities of America's budget deficit are examined, highlighting the ripple effects on everyday lives and political dynamics.

17 snips
May 22, 2025 • 1h 51min
Maple Syrup and Soft Power
Marko and Jacob debate Canada's geopolitical standing, humorously defending it with maple syrup and AI. They mock draft global powers while discussing tech and demographic influences on future world order. The conversation speculates on city-states like Singapore emerging in a multipolar world, and how non-state actors could reshape international relations. They also delve into the complexities of Israel's geopolitical role and the rising influence of nations like Brazil, highlighting the unpredictable nature of global power dynamics.

94 snips
May 15, 2025 • 1h 27min
Our 2025 Geopolitical Power Draft
The hosts dive into chaos and caffeine with an entertaining Geopolitical Power Draft, discussing everything from Gulf monarchies to Trump's controversial jet gift. They explore Zelensky's strategic maneuvers and how Saudi Arabia is evolving in the geopolitical landscape. There's talk of multipolarity and emerging powers like the UAE in the AI race. The playful draft highlights potential power players over the next 30 years, examining the roles of countries like India, Turkey, and Brazil while challenging assumptions about military strength and demographics.

May 12, 2025 • 57min
TikTok Dictators and the End of Hegemony
The podcast dives into the chaos of Middle Eastern tensions, with missile strikes and Trump's strategic moves. It highlights Israel's misconceptions about U.S. loyalty and Jordan's balancing act in the face of criticism. A comedic look at Burkina Faso reveals its TikTok dictatorship and the role of gold in politics. The discussion shifts to the impact of nuclear weapons on global stability, and the dangers posed by advancements in AI. Ultimately, it champions multipolarity as a stabilizing force in an unpredictable world.

25 snips
May 5, 2025 • 1h 12min
A Jew and a Nihilist Talk About The Pope
The hosts dive into the free fall of the U.S. dollar and explore China's tech breakthroughs, with one still skeptical about BYD cars. They humorously analyze Europe's seemingly bleak future and discuss India-Pakistan tensions. The conversation also veers into Trump's Nobel aspirations, playful predictions about the Pope, and Japan's new role in trade negotiations. Amidst it all, they sprinkle in some humorous takes on NBA predictions and the impact of global events on everyday life.