The Jacob Shapiro Podcast

Welcome to week two! Rob and Jacob are back at it, updating you on the latest and greatest trends in the Market, Supply Chains, and Tech.00:30:-23:00 Market update23:00-31:20: Mexico supply chains31:20-end: “Friction” and technologyThanks for tuning in!Make sure to check out the Cognitive Dissidents site and services here.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

As the Supreme Court takes up one of the most consequential trade cases in decades, former Biden administration official and Yale-trained lawyer Peter Harrell joins Jacob L. for a real-time breakdown of what’s at stake. Together, they cut through the legal jargon to reveal how a 1977 emergency powers statute became the foundation for Donald Trump’s sweeping tariff regime—and why the Court’s decision could reshape U.S. trade, markets, and global power. A crash course in law, economics, and political brinkmanship.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(00:45) - Supreme Court and Tariff Legality(05:09) - Understanding IEPA and Its Implications(15:30) - Potential Outcomes and Impacts(22:24) - US-Mexico-Canada Trade Relations(26:27) - Mexico's Trade Challenges(26:35) - Trump Administration's Legal Battles(27:49) - Supreme Court's Role in Tariff Decisions(28:20) - Foreign Governments' Reactions(30:36) - Impact of US Elections on Trade Policy(34:46) - Historical Context of Tariffs(38:25) - Trump's Trade Deals with Cambodia and Malaysia(43:24) - Future of US Tariff Policy(48:39) - Implications for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses--Referenced in the Show:Peter Harrell - https://carnegieendowment.org/people/peter-harrell?lang=en Twitter - https://x.com/petereharrell--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

South Korea stands at the crossroads of global power - caught between China, the United States, Japan, and its unpredictable neighbor to the north. Jacob Shapiro and Professor Jeffrey Robertson unpack how a nation long described as “the shrimp among whales” has learned to navigate the world’s toughest geopolitical waters. From shifting alliances and nuclear restraint to the economic promise of unification, this episode reveals how Korea’s pragmatism may shape the future of Asia.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(01:45) - Professor Jeff Robinson(02:08) - Jeff's Background and Experience in South Korea(02:55) - South Korea's Rapid Changes and Current Events(04:54) - US-South Korea Relations and Historical Context(12:43) - South Korea's Domestic Politics and Policy(16:51) - South Korea-Japan Relations(19:59) - South Korea's Perception of China(24:05) - South Korea's Stance on Taiwan and Nuclear Deterrent(25:48) - Nuclear Deterrence on the Korean Peninsula(27:40) - North Korea's Current Status and International Relations(29:10) - Prospects of Korean Peninsula Unification(37:57) - South Korea's Economic and Demographic Challenges(41:56) - Australia-South Korea Relations(48:27) - Impact of US-South Korea Relations on Education and Future Prospects(50:42) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts--Referenced in the Show:Jeffrey Robinson's Website: https://junotane.com/--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

When U.S. aircraft carriers appear off Venezuela’s coast, it’s not just saber-rattling - it’s a mirror held up to a century of empire. Jacob and LatAm analyst Elohim Monard dissect what’s really driving Washington’s renewed aggression in the Caribbean, from Trump and Rubio’s internal power struggle - to the shadow of China, the lure of oil, and the global rise of hard-line politics. Together, they trace the fault lines connecting Venezuela, Argentina, Peru, and the United States... and ask whether a new “right-wing international” is already reshaping the Americas.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(00:29) - Halloween Anecdote and Personal Updates(01:16) - Coca-Cola and American Empire(02:53) - Venezuela and US Foreign Policy(04:35) - US Military Movements and Implications(10:53) - Internal US Politics and Foreign Policy(20:37) - Historical Context and Neoconservatism(35:06) - US Strategy in Latin America(35:41) - China's Influence and Russia's Role(36:43) - US Military Presence and Economic Interests(42:22) - Historical Context and Legal Justifications(44:25) - Emerging Right-Wing Politics in Latin America(48:07) - Comparative Analysis of US and Latin American Politics(56:02) - Future Implications and Concluding Thoughts--Referenced in the Show:Conversando de Política - https://conversandodepolitica.com--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

When a Brazilian payment system threatens U.S. credit-card profits, it exposes a deeper fracture in the global economy: sovereignty versus rent-seeking, innovation versus control. Jacob and Rob trace the fight over PIX from Brasília to Washington and beyond -into currency wars, trade tantrums, and the strange new politics of the Western Hemisphere. What does it mean when the world’s “rules-based order” starts punishing countries for building better systems?--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Overview(00:50) - Halloween in Paris vs. New Orleans(01:40) - Current Events and Volatility(02:36) - Introduction to Pix Payment System(03:25) - How Pix Works and Its Impact(05:58) - US Investigation into Pix(08:35) - Geopolitical Implications and US-Brazil Relations(13:30) - Privacy Concerns and Central Bank Control(17:23) - Credit Card Companies vs. Pix(22:25) - Brazil's Political Landscape and Economic Outlook(28:08) - US-Argentina Relations and Economic Policies(30:25) - Discussing Currency Strategies(31:16) - Argentina's Currency Swap and US Involvement(32:49) - US Banks and Argentina's Financial Crisis(35:55) - US Military Buildup in the Caribbean(36:48) - US-Colombia Relations and Regional Tensions(42:22) - Impact of Cocaine Production on Latin America(48:35) - Currency Discipline and Global Financial Stability(54:27) - The Future of Global Currencies(01:00:19) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Japan rewired its politics: a power shift, a woman at the helm, and a minority government forced to bargain for every vote. What follows when high approval collides with hard math - aging demographics, weak yen, and defense budgets racing past old taboos? Analyst Tobias Harris, author of The Iconoclast and writer of Observing Japan, joins The Jacob Shapiro Podcast to unpack the country’s most surprising election in years - one that produced its first female prime minister and a government held together by negotiation. Expect sharper debates on security, energy, food, and China ties, with South Korea and Washington watching. Is this real generational change or a new face for old factions? The stakes: whether Japan can act before events act on it.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction (00:25) - Challenges in Understanding Japanese Politics(01:05) - Recent Japanese Election Overview(02:00) - Unexpected Election Results and Political Shifts(05:45) - Historical Context and Political Fragmentation(07:29) - Farewell to Shigeru Ishiba(12:31) - Rise of Japan's First Female Prime Minister(22:57) - Public Perception and Future Prospects(27:46) - Understanding Political Longevity(28:30) - Policy Expectations and Challenges(32:49) - Economic and Fiscal Policies(37:39) - Foreign Policy and Relations with China(43:15) - Japan-South Korea Relations(48:55) - Japan-US Relations and Defense Strategy(55:45) - Concluding Thoughts on Leadership--Referenced in the Show:Tobais' website: https://observingjapan.com/Observing Japan Substack: https://substack.com/@observingjapan--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Gold prices are soaring, private equity is unraveling, and data centers have become the next speculative frontier. Beneath all of it lies a simple question: what happens when faith in liquidity, stability, and infinite growth begins to fray? From central banks hoarding bullion to insurers gambling on AI infrastructure, the same story unfolds—risk disguised as resilience. And somewhere between coffee tariffs and capital flows, you can glimpse the new shape of a global economy learning to live without certainty.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(01:03) - Catch-Up and Current Events(02:09) - Gold Market Analysis(08:40) - Global Currency Dynamics(17:42) - US Gold Reserves and Fiscal Policy(25:24) - Podcast Wrap-Up and Listener Engagement(26:25) - Urgent Financial News: Private Equity and Insurance Capital(27:57) - Private Equity's Desperation for Retail Investors(28:33) - The Volatility Spiral and Liquidity Crisis(31:43) - Private Equity's Leverage on Captive Insurance(32:48) - The Data Center Investment Bubble(41:23) - AI Demand and Data Center Overcapacity(48:52) - The Future of Energy Prices and AI(50:45) - Rising Coffee Prices and Tariff Impacts(57:19) - The Global Trade System and Commodity Markets(01:00:05) - Conclusion: The State of Global Markets--Referenced in the Show:--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

What if money could make you freer instead of more dependent? Matt McClintock joins the pod to dive into Bitcoin’s evolution from digital experiment to geopolitical force - a technology challenging governments, redefining sovereignty, and reshaping how value moves across the world. Matt and Jacob explore what “freedom money” really means, why personal sovereignty now collides with state power, and how the struggle between fiat and crypto reveals the future of economics, trust, and control in a multipolar world.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Overview(00:20) - Addressing Listener Concerns(02:08) - Engaging with the Community(02:49) - Welcoming Back Matt McClintock(03:44) - Bitcoin: A Journey of Discovery(05:53) - Understanding Bitcoin's Evolution(09:41) - Bitcoin's Global Significance(12:59) - Bitcoin's Unique Characteristics(24:28) - Bitcoin as Freedom Money(29:23) - Bitcoin and Economic Freedom(29:56) - Bitcoin's Role in Oppressive Regimes(30:45) - Government Reactions to Bitcoin(32:35) - Personal Security and Bitcoin(34:45) - Bitcoin and Legal Concerns(44:40) - Bitcoin's Sovereignty and Legal Framework(55:30) - Bitcoin's Unique Position in the Financial World(01:00:34) - The Future of Bitcoin and Fiat(01:01:38) - Closing Thoughts and Reflections--Referenced in the Show:Link to White Paper: https://bespokegroup.io/sovereigntyparadox/Link to Matt’s Substack: https://mattmcclintock.substack.com/--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob Shapiro is joined by Matt Pines, Executive Director of the Bitcoin Policy Institute, to discuss the accelerating convergence of Bitcoin, AI, geopolitics, and energy. Pines argues that technological change is happening faster than existing frameworks can manage, pushing once-fringe ideas into mainstream policy debates. They explore how AI and Bitcoin are straining U.S. infrastructure, particularly the electrical grid, and what this means for national security and economic stability. The discussion also considers the rise of “techno-feudal” elites, political backlash risks, and whether America can maintain an edge against China’s state-driven infrastructure build-out. Pines closes with reflections on Bitcoin’s rapid rise as both a strategic asset and a test of U.S. policy adaptability.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(01:33) - The Acceleration of Change(07:16) - Energy Consumption and Infrastructure Challenges(15:24) - Political and Economic Implications(21:35) - US vs China: Technological Race(27:26) - Future of Sovereignty and Power(33:11) - The Future of AI and Techno-Surveillance Capitalism(35:01) - Economic Implications of Universal Basic Income(35:35) - Sci-Fi Futures and Technological Transformations(36:27) - Bitcoin's Role in a Techno-Feudal World(41:25) - Political and Social Reactions to Technological Change(42:58) - The Rapid Evolution of AI and Its Impacts(53:14) - Bitcoin Policy and National Interest(58:38) - Geopolitical and Monetary Challenges Ahead(01:02:45) - Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook--Referenced in the Show:Bitcoin Policy Institute - https://www.btcpolicy.org--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob Shapiro reconnects with Chase Taylor (of Pinecone Macro) for a wide-ranging conversation on U.S. competitiveness. The two dig into why electricity costs, labor shortages, and weak industrial policy matter far more than endless chatter about tariffs or rate cuts. They trade scenarios on how soaring power demand, grid fragility, and demographic decline could shape America’s future against China. Along the way, they touch on robots, nearshoring to Mexico, farm policy, and why simple, obvious analysis is often the most powerful--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(00:43) - Contrarian Views on US Macroeconomics(02:51) - Competitiveness and Power Prices(08:10) - Energy Policy and Grid Reliability(18:31) - Labor Market and Automation Challenges(22:31) - Global Competitiveness and Future Outlook(35:45) - Global Capital Flows and Economic Risks(38:05) - The Role of Stable Coins and Agriculture Insights(38:54) - Challenges and Opportunities in Agriculture(43:50) - Bitcoin and Digital Assets Discussion(51:19) - Investment Strategies and Market Outlook(56:23) - Policy Impacts and Future Concerns--Referenced in the Show:https://www.pineconemacro.com/--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob steps away from his usual roster of experts to bring listeners a first-person account from Kathmandu. Law student and human rights scholar Prasansha Rimal reflects on Nepal’s fragile democracy, its youth-led protests, and the deeper frustration with corruption and stagnant politics. She describes how social media both sparked dissent and revealed inequality, while broader grievances fueled unrest. Jacob underscores the courage of her testimony, noting that her perspective adds invaluable, if subjective, insight into Nepal’s ongoing political transformation--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Overview(03:21) - Introducing Prasansha Rimal(06:04) - Nepal's Political Landscape and Youth Protests(15:11) - Economic Challenges and Social Media's Role(26:25) - Geopolitical Context: Nepal Between China and India(42:01) - Future Hopes and Reflections(45:29) - Final Thoughts--Referenced in the Show:--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob and Rob reunite after a long break, tracing the threads between a dizzying run of global events and markets that seem strangely calm. Jacob frames the conversation with parallels to the 1920s, questioning whether today’s mix of political volatility, speculative fervor, and rapid technological change echoes past cycles of boom and fracture. Alongside Rob’s market perspective, he explores AI’s slowdown, labor shortages, and the looming electricity crunch, before pulling the discussion toward deeper questions of resilience, innovation, and Bitcoin’s place in geopolitics.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome(00:37) - Catching Up with Rob(01:12) - Geopolitical and Market Overview(02:16) - Market Sentiment and Fundamentals(07:24) - Historical Comparisons and Economic Patterns(10:59) - Challenges in the Current Market(18:48) - CapEx Cycles and Future Projections(31:32) - Energy Infrastructure and Grid Issues(39:56) - Questioning the Centralized Grid(40:46) - Geopolitics and Energy Access(41:37) - Historical Parallels and Government Intervention(43:20) - The Future of Energy Consumption(48:25) - AI Adoption and Market Expectations(58:30) - Bitcoin and Geopolitical Shifts--Referenced in the Show:--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob Shapiro sits down with Jacek Bartosiak, founder of Strategy&Future, to discuss Russia’s drone incursions into Polish airspace and their broader implications. From Warsaw’s perspective, deterrence has failed, pushing debate toward a “politics of punishment.” Bartosiak outlines the fracturing of NATO credibility, the rise of an Intermarium bloc from the Baltics to Turkey, and Ukraine’s surprising military innovations. Together, they explore how Poland, Ukraine, and regional allies may reshape Europe’s security landscape amid U.S. retreat.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Introduction(00:22) - Current Geopolitical Tensions in Poland(01:07) - Historical Context: The Intermarium Concept(02:04) - Polish Perspective on Western Media(02:58) - Russian Drone Incursion into Poland(05:41) - Poland's Strategic Debate and NATO's Role(10:40) - Ukraine's Military and Strategic Position(14:21 US-European Relations and Trump's Policies(24:55) - Future of NATO and Eastern European Alliances(27:43) - Geopolitical Tensions in Eastern Europe(28:35) - NATO's Role and Perceived Weakness(29:43) - Poland's Strategic Position and Military Capabilities(31:42) - Putin's Miscalculations and Regional Dynamics(33:48) - Historical Context and Turkey's Role(36:48) - China's Influence and Future Scenarios(48:06) - Belarus and the Future of Eastern Europe(51:39) - Concluding Thoughts on Regional Stability--Referenced in the Show:Strategy and Future - https://patronite.pl/p/strategy-and-future/ --Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

After a month-long hiatus recovering from illness, Jacob Shapiro returns to the podcast joined by recurring guest Elohim Monard. Together, they examine the transactional nature of U.S.–Latin America relations, debating whether the region is part of a declining American empire and how leaders like Claudia Sheinbaum and Lula navigate Washington’s shifting policies. Their discussion ranges from Brazil’s geopolitical role to Venezuela’s fragility, highlighting the Latin Americanization of U.S. politics and the uncertain trajectory of American power--Timestamps:(00:00) - Intro & Personal Update(00:59) - Elohim and Conversando de Política (02:46) - Discussion on US-Latin America Relations(03:51) - The Decline of the American Empire(19:58) - Brazil's Role in Latin America(38:01) - US Foreign Policy Contradictions(38:58) - Historical Context of US Alliances(39:36) - China's Strategic Interests(39:52) - US Transactional Relationships(41:04) - Latin America's Shift Towards China(41:58) - Colombia's Balancing Act(43:27) - Peru's Growing Chinese Influence(45:45) - US-Latin America Relations: A Historical Perspective(47:45) - The Latin Americanization of US Politics(51:17) - Soft Dictatorships and Media Relations(01:00:07) - US Military Actions in Latin America(01:06:10) - The Future of US-Latin America Relations--Referenced in the Show:Elohim's Podcast - https://www.conversandodepolitica.com/ --Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob and Rob dig into Trump’s firing of the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner, exposing the political theater surrounding government data. They explore labor hoarding, CPI distortions, and the fragility of public statistical institutions in a polarized, AI-saturated world. The conversation spans historical context, philosophical takes on truth and data, and the coming war for proprietary information. They close with a baffling shift in U.S.-India trade policy—and a call for help understanding what the hell is going on.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction (00:44) - Employment Data(02:42) - Trump's Reaction and Bureau of Labor Statistics(05:07) - Challenges in Measuring Employment(12:24) - Historical Context and Political Interference(21:06) - Impact of Data Quality on AI and Public Trust(27:29) - Speculation on the Future of Data Commoditization(29:02) - The Decline of Respect for Objective Data(31:01) - Historical Perspectives on Data and Statistics(32:36) - The French Example of Data Collection and Secularism(34:05) - The Impact of AI on Information and Truth(36:35) - The Value of Proprietary Information in the Age of AI(44:36) - Historical Parallels and the Power of Information(49:43) - US-India Trade Relations and Geopolitical Strategy(56:03) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob Shapiro sits down with Luke Gromen for a wide-ranging discussion about AI’s disruption, the U.S. fiscal outlook, and global power dynamics. Jacob noted that AI is rapidly commoditizing data and could upend white-collar industries, but he and Luke agreed that intuition and discerning quality data points remain critical. They dug into Europe’s strategic weaknesses, the U.S.-China rivalry, and vulnerabilities in supply chains like rare earths. On the U.S. fiscal front, Luke argued that the government must financially repress bondholders, with stablecoins potentially becoming a tool for yield curve control. They closed with a look at Bitcoin’s growing role as a “neutral reserve asset.”--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction (01:17) - The Impact of AI on Research and Content Creation(05:18) - Economic Predictions and Intuitive Analysis(11:38) - Concerns About AI and Future Job Markets(16:45) - Geopolitical Surprises and Strategic Incompetence(23:14) - US-China Relations and Rare Earth Vulnerabilities(30:14) - Fiscal and Monetary Health of the United States(27:00) - US-China Relations Again(31:09) - Restructuring Debt and Inflation Concerns(32:17) - Housing Market and Inflation Dynamics(33:45) - Economic Policies and Market Reactions(38:57) - Stable Coins and US Fiscal Strategy(50:30) - Bitcoin as a Reserve Asset(01:00:18) - Investment Advice and Final Thoughts--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob interviews Dr. Van Jackson, an international relations scholar specializing in East Asian and Pacific security. They discuss the accelerating pace and volatility of U.S. foreign policy, characterizing Trump-era actions as part of a broader counter-revolutionary, oligarchic project. Van critiques both major U.S. parties and highlights the risk of diversionary wars as legitimacy crises grow. They explore the geopolitics of Iran, Israel, and China, and conclude with insights on North Korea and potential U.S. troop withdrawal from South Korea, outlining a rare “win-win-win” scenario for all parties on the Korean Peninsula.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(04:52) - Discussion on US Power and Global Politics(08:30) - Middle East Policy and US-Israel Relations(16:30) - Defining Fascism and White Nationalism(23:32) - Trump's Base and Political Dynamics(30:07) - Potential Diversionary Conflicts and Foreign Policy(35:19) - The Inevitability of War with China(35:52) - China's Strategic Interests in Taiwan and the South China Sea(36:49) - The Role of Allies in US-China Relations(38:25) - The Controversy Over Arming Allies(40:57) - Trump's Foreign Policy and Its Impact on Alliances(42:56) - Japan and South Korea's Dilemma(46:42) - The Future of US Hegemony and Global Alliances(51:01) - The Role of the Democratic Party in US Politics(58:52) - North Korea's Nuclear Deterrent and US Relations(01:05:15) - Potential US Troop Withdrawal from South Korea(01:08:49) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob welcomes economic policy expert Mike Konczal for a wide-ranging conversation on American capitalism, industrial policy, and the evolving role of the state. They explore how the Biden administration’s economic agenda challenges decades of neoliberal orthodoxy, discuss the implications of increased public investment, and examine what it means to have a “pro-worker” economy. Konczal brings deep insight into the politics and pragmatics of economic reform, offering a nuanced look at the shifting landscape of U.S. economic policymaking.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Introduction(00:17) - Disclaimer and Encouragement to Listen(01:13) - Starting the Conversation: Economy and Tariffs(01:34) - Discussing Richard Rorty and Substack(04:31) - The 2025 Tax Act: Key Points and Implications(07:45) - Healthcare Market Rework and Medicaid Cuts(10:57) - Energy Market Changes and Green Energy(13:38) - Immigration Policies and ICE Funding(18:11) - Balancing Criticism with Positive Aspects(27:15) - Economic Shockwaves and the Republican Party(27:39) - Market Reactions and Fiscal Policies(28:30) - Deficit and US Debt Perspectives(30:14) - Healthcare Cuts and Fiscal Impact(34:04) - Tariffs and Market Uncertainty(39:53) - Inflation and Interest Rates(45:54) - Future Economic Strategies and Affordability(52:41) - Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook--Referenced in the Show:Mike's Website + Book: https://www.mikekonczal.com/--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob and Rob Larity dive deep into U.S. interest rate dynamics, focusing on Jerome Powell, Trump’s criticism of the Fed, and the potential political and market-driven forces affecting rate decisions. They explore Fed mechanics, historical precedent for presidential interference, and potential appointments like Scott Bessent. They also examine the inflationary impact of trade policy, tariff theatrics, and global economic slowdown signals. The episode concludes with Rob’s investment outlook—bearish on bonds, cautious on equities, and optimistic about international and niche small-cap opportunities.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(00:13) - Discussion on Interest Rates and Political Interference(01:29) - Casual Conversation and Personal Updates(02:54) - Focus on Jerome Powell and Fed Criticism(09:54) - Mechanics of the Federal Reserve System(14:55) - Historical Context and Presidential Influence on the Fed(25:35) - Scott Bessant's Role and Potential Impact(33:58) - Critique of Janet Yellen's Bond Strategy(35:02) - Challenges of Managing National Debt(35:40) - Market Reactions and Yield Predictions(39:49) - Impact of Tariffs and Trade Deals(44:26) - Inflation and Economic Indicators(57:15) - Investment Strategies in Current Market(01:08:28) - Concluding Thoughts and Recommendations--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--

Jacob Shapiro speaks with Fahd Humayun about the shifting geopolitical dynamics in South Asia and the Middle East. They discuss Pakistan’s perspective on the Iran-Israel conflict, U.S.-Pakistan relations under a potential second Trump term, and the strategic implications of Pakistan’s recent military and diplomatic moves. The conversation also explores India-Pakistan tensions, the lowering threshold for military escalation, the role of China in regional alliances, and the internal political challenges facing Pakistan. Humayun emphasizes the need for regional diplomacy, stability, and cautious optimism about Pakistan’s political and democratic future.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(01:11) - Current Geopolitical Tensions: Iran, Israel, and Pakistan(03:48) - Pakistan's Perspective on US Intervention(05:16) - Unprecedented Meeting: Pakistani Army Chief and President Trump(08:05) - Historical Context: Pakistan-US Relations(12:44) - India-Pakistan Relations: Recent Developments(31:21) - China's Role in South Asia(43:36) - Domestic Politics in Pakistan(50:37) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts--Referenced in the Show:Fahd's Website: https://www.fahdhumayun.com/ --Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today’s volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--