Hidden Forces

In this episode, Demetri Kofinas speaks with Marshall Kosloff, host of The Realignment and Arsenal of Democracy podcasts. They discuss the realignment framework applied to US foreign policy, AI and social media regulation, the 2024 election, and the risk of a new global conflict.

Famed historian of American Foreign Policy, Walter Russell Mead, discusses the evolving war in the Middle East and why we are living through the most dangerous period in international affairs since the 1930s. They explore historical parallels and differences, the apocalyptic strain in American politics, ideological influences on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, potential collusion among America's adversaries, and the possibility of direct U.S. involvement in Israel's war against Hamas.

Demetri Kofinas speaks with Michael Brenes, director of the Brady-Johnson Program in Grand Strategy at Yale University. They discuss the state of the U.S. defense industrial base, military readiness, and the impacts of U.S. military involvement in active conflicts and great-power competition on political stability. They also explore the challenges of supplying Ukraine, the evolution of the defense industrial base, strategic planning, the dangers of narrow focus in strategic thinking, and the consequences of pursuing great power rivalry.

Geopolitical analyst Kamran Bokhari discusses the recent attacks by Hamas in Israel, their potential involvement of Iran, and the possibility of a regional conflict. He also explores the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, analyzes Hamas's intentions and strategic thinking behind the attacks, and delves into the intricate leadership structure within Iran. The podcast examines the risks posed by Iran and Hamas, and discusses potential deescalation strategies in Gaza and with Hezbollah in the north.

"What the Bond Sell-off Means for Investors" features Andy Constan, a bond market expert, and Mike Green, an analyst. They analyze the recent turmoil in the bond market, discussing the rise in long-term government debt and its implications for the economy. Topics include the risk-reward for investors considering bonds in their portfolio and the challenges of forecasting economic activity, interest rates, and inflation. They also explore the impact of long-term interest rates on the housing market and the divergence between stock and bond returns.

Demetri Kofinas speaks with Henry Olsen, author of 'Working Class Republican,' discussing the rise of populism, political realignment, and disconnect between citizens and parties. They explore American electoral politics, including the potential scenarios for the 2024 elections and the importance of adapting to the new right.

Demetri Kofinas interviews Dylan Patel, a semiconductor and A.I. analyst, about the failure of U.S. semiconductor export controls on China. They discuss Huawei's Kirin 9000s chipset, China's progress in the chip industry, military and commercial implications, strengthening export controls, and rebuilding America's semiconductor industry.

Brad Setser, Whitney Shepardson Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, discusses the new geopolitics of global finance and China's economy. They explore economic policy transformations, China's high savings rate, German economy, dollar assets, and efforts to de-risk supply chains. Also, they delve into stimulating the semiconductor industry and China's dominance in electric vehicles.

Diana Choyleva, an expert in US-China relations, discusses Huawei's 5G phone, China's naval exercises, and the state of its economy. The podcast explores China's technological advancements, the US response, the CCP's strategy, and China's long-term perspective. It also highlights the need for internal reform in Western societies and China's desire to regain global dominance.

Alex Velez-Green, fmr. National Security Advisor to U.S. Senator Josh Hawley, discusses the risks faced by the US military in a conflict with China over Taiwan, including Chinese advancements, consequences of losing, and containing China. They also explore the state of America's defense industrial base and the need to invest in capabilities to deter China.