Hidden Forces

Scott Gottlieb, former FDA head and current board member at Pfizer, shares insights from his book, "Uncontrolled Spread." He discusses the systemic failures that worsened the COVID-19 crisis and the economic fallout from initial lockdowns. Gottlieb explains the virus's mechanics and vaccine effectiveness, addressing risks and the importance of informed choices. He dives into the debate on alternative treatments like Ivermectin and emphasizes the need for enhanced pandemic preparedness through a national security lens.

David Wessel, a Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, unveils the controversial truth behind Opportunity Zones—tax breaks marketed as social justice but seemingly benefiting the wealthy instead. He dives into the political machinations that allowed such provisions to slip through with little scrutiny, revealing the underlying dynamics of power in Washington. Wessel also discusses current issues like infrastructure bills and the landscape of upcoming elections, shedding light on the intricate relationship between wealth, policy, and democracy.

Telecom industry veteran Jon Pelson, author of "Wireless Wars," sheds light on the turbulent journey of 5G technology. He reveals how American innovation inadvertently fueled China's telecom rise, particularly through companies like Huawei. Pelson shares gripping tales of industry leaders and highlights the intricate dance between U.S. businesses and the Chinese Communist Party. He emphasizes the urgent need for the U.S. to harness its culture of innovation to reclaim its leadership in global telecommunications and counteract China's strategic moves.

Bradford McArthur, host of the documentary series "The Empire's New Clothes," dives into the cyclical forces shaping empires and societies. He discusses financial nihilism as a contemporary investment philosophy, addressing the complexities of market speculation. The conversation also navigates the post-truth landscape, emphasizing the need for unified societal truths. McArthur examines the interplay between leadership, media influence, and the importance of personal growth amidst financial struggles, highlighting the relevance of active participation in both politics and investing.

Kai-Fu Lee, CEO of Sinovation Ventures and former president of Google China, shares his insights on our AI-driven future. He discusses the pivotal technologies, like deep learning and quantum computing, that will shape the next two decades. Kai-Fu delves into the ethical dilemmas facing autonomous vehicles and the societal challenges posed by job displacement. He also explores the unsettling potential of AI and digital currency within a post-scarcity world, emphasizing the need for transparency and ethical considerations in technology.

Simon Mikhailovich, founder and Managing Partner of The Bullion Reserve, shares his profound insights as an émigré from the Soviet Union. He reflects on the harsh lessons learned from his upbringing in Leningrad and the complexities of Soviet life, linking them to today's socio-political challenges in the West. The discussion shifts to the waning faith in traditional safe havens like U.S. treasuries, highlighting gold's enduring value as a reliable investment amidst systemic risks. Mikhailovich emphasizes the importance of strategic relationships to ensure liquidity during uncertain times.

Adam Tooze, Professor of History at Columbia University and author of "Shutdown: How COVID Shook the World Economy," unpacks the tumultuous first year of the pandemic. He analyzes the interplay between power and knowledge, examining how trust in authorities was fractured. Tooze also critiques the fragility of the neoliberal order and discusses challenges posed by rising powers like China. The conversation delves into the future of U.S. leadership, the role of central banks, and the pressing need for innovative solutions to climate change and societal division.

In this engaging discussion, Daniel Markey, a Senior Expert on South Asia and author of "China's Western Horizon," dives into China’s complex relationship with its Eurasian neighbors. He reveals how China's historical perspectives shape contemporary security concerns and economic goals. Markey explores the Belt and Road Initiative's evolution into a geopolitical strategy, addressing its implications for regional dynamics and partnerships, especially with Russia. The conversation also reflects on the geopolitical shifts following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan and their impact on alliances.

Jonathan Schroden, Director of the Countering Threats & Challenges Program at CNA and strategic advisor on Afghanistan, dives deep into the complexities of America's withdrawal from Afghanistan. He discusses the public narratives surrounding the chaotic exit and the strategic reasoning behind it. Schroden highlights the failures of U.S. military strategies, the Taliban's adept use of technology for information warfare, and the role of corruption within the Afghan government. He also examines the implications of this withdrawal on regional stability and the threat posed by emerging terrorist organizations.

Laurel Miller, Director of the International Crisis Group’s Asia Program and former deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan, delves into the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. She explores the rapid collapse of the Afghan government and army, shedding light on the intelligence oversights that contributed to the fallout. The conversation touches on China's, Russia's, and Iran's implications amid these shifts, the challenges facing the Taliban in governance, and the lessons learned from U.S. foreign policy miscalculations in the region.