"Econ 102" with Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg
Economist and "Noahpinion" writer Noah Smith and investor Erik Torenberg analyze current events, technology, business, and more through an economic lens. The podcast aims to make sense of complex topics in an accessible way.
Episodes
What AI Means for Anthropic, Washington, and Jobs
Noah Smith joins Erik Torenberg at the 2026 American Dynamism Summit in Washington, D.C. to discuss Anthropic's relationship with Washington, bioterrorism risks stemming from AI, why Noah isn't worried about AI causing job loss, and more.
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Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:28 - Anthropic, DOD, & Government Control of AI
04:28 - Sponsor: NetSuite
09:44 - Advice for Dario & Anthropic
12:13 - Partisan Po
Technology, Crime, and Public Safety w/ Garrett Langley, CEO of Flock Safety
In this episode of Econ 102, Noah and Erik are joined by Flock Safety CEO to cover America's crime crisis and how to solve it with technology. They explore international comparisons, why America's crime problem is unique, how cameras can deter crime, tradeoffs in crime reduction, and more.-Sponsors:NotionAI meeting notes lives right in Notion, everything you capture, whether that's meetings, podca
Europe's Future, Online Politics, and Populism in America
In this episode of Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg cover Europe's economic future, how internet discourse has changed politics, the rise of identitarian populism on both the right and left in America, and more.-Sponsors:NotionAI meeting notes lives right in Notion, everything you capture, whether that's meetings, podcasts, interviews, conversations, live exactly where you plan, build, and
Immigration Debate w/ Pascal-Emmanuel Gobry and Noah Smith
In this episode of Econ 102 originally aired on the Sphere Podcast, Noah Smith and Pascal-Emmanuel Gobry sit down for a debate on immigration. They cover the philosophical underpinnings of their arguments, where they find common ground, border enforcement, deportation, public opinion, and more.-Sponsors:NotionAI meeting notes lives right in Notion, everything you capture, whether that's meetings,
AI Business Models, Rare Earths, and China's Economic Challenges
In this episode of Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore AI's effects on productivity, how AI business models will shake out, the US and China's rare earth minerals industries, and China's economic challenges, including demographics, real estate, and involution.-Sponsors:NotionAI meeting notes lives right in Notion, everything you capture, whether that's meetings, podcasts, interviews, c
Manufacturing's Future, The Electric Tech Stack, and Automation
In this episode of Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg cover the transformation of global manufacturing, the rise of the electric tech stack, the landscape of jobs and economic policy, and the state of today's online discourse.–SPONSORS: NetSuite More than 42,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, the #1 cloud financial system bringing accounting, financial management, inv
Who Profits from AI?
In this episode of Econ 102, Noah Smith and explore how AI is reshaping the economy, jobs, business profitability, industry competition, and financing, while drawing historical parallels and offering insights into its broader societal impact.–SPONSORS:ZcashZcash offers private, encrypted digital money that protects users from AI-powered surveillance, allowing people to store and spend wealth witho
AGI Thought Experiment with Dwarkesh Patel, Noah Smith, and Erik Torenberg | From the a16z Podcast
In this episode from the a16z Podcast, Dwarkesh Patel, Noah Smith, and Erik Torenberg discuss AGI, exploring how AI might transform labor markets, economic growth, space exploration, and geopolitical dynamics in the coming decades.–SPONSORS:ZcashZcash offers private, encrypted digital money that protects users from AI-powered surveillance, allowing people to store and spend wealth without compromi
Making Sense of Milei, AI & Employment, and America's Future
In this episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore Argentina's economic reforms under President Milei, development models in emerging economies like Vietnam and Malaysia, effective crime reduction strategies, and how AI might reshape our workforce and population dynamics in the coming decades.–SPONSORS:CartaCarta is offering up to 40% off a new Carta plan, including cap table management, QSBS
Sam D'Amico and Noah Smith on How China Masters Manufacturing (And How America Can Catch Up)
This week, we’re airing a live conversation between Noah Smith and Sam D’Amico, founder and CEO of Impulse Labs, about how China’s Electric Tech Stack and tightly integrated supply chains are fueling its lead in industries from EVs to robotics, while exploring solutions for revitalizing U.S. manufacturing. The conversation also covers regulatory challenges, the value of co-locating engineers and f
The 2nd China Shock: Why Chinese Companies Are Making Zero Profit
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg analyze recent global events—from a political shift in New York to the Israel-Iran conflict—while exploring U.S.-China economic dynamics, evolving industrial policies, and the risk of a recession. The conversation also touches on historical economic shifts, tariffs, and manufacturing trends.
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Derek Thompson on Why America Can't Build, Abundance, and Substack
In this episode of Econ 102, we're republishing a conversation between Noah Smith and Derek Thompson recorded live on Substack in June. They explore Derek’s shift from The Atlantic to Substack and unpack the “abundance agenda” — a vision for revitalizing American politics through better housing, energy, and innovation policy. Their wide-ranging conversation touches on economic reform, trendspottin
What Replaces Twitter? With Noah Smith & Chris Best, CEO of Substack
This week, we're republishing a conversation from last month between Noah Smith and Substack CEO Chris Best, originally streamed on Substack Live. They discuss the future of media in an AI-driven world, including Noah's vision for AI-powered newsletters, the rise of independent voices, and the evolving roles of platforms like TikTok and Twitter. The conversation also explores Substack's potential
China, Tesla, and the Electric Tech Stack Revolution
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss China’s economic strategies, technological advancements, and geopolitical challenges, contrasting them with U.S. policy. They discuss topics from the Hong Kong protests to battery manufacturing and emphasize the need for American industrial policy, education reform, and strategic investment to stay competitive.
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Cost Disease, USAID Debate, and is Curtis Yarvin Trapped in 2020
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore persistent economic myths and recent developments—from cost disease in services like healthcare and education to stagnating manufacturing productivity, rising higher education costs, drug pricing policies, and student loan debates—while also reflecting on broader intellectual shifts driven by culture wars and foreign aid discussions.
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Noah Smith & Matt Yglesias on the Electric Technology Crisis, China, and America's Future
This week, we're republishing a conversation Noah Smith and Matt Yglesias hosted live on Substack this past Monday. They revisit a wide-ranging conversation on the transformative role of electric motors, batteries, and industrial policy in a politically polarized era, touching on the history of energy, global economic competition, AI regulation, the Inflation Reduction Act, Democratic strategy, an
India-Pakistan, Building Back Military Power, and Immigration
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg examine global conflicts—especially India-Pakistan tensions—the U.S. military and industrial strategy amid rising threats from China, and the implications of AI and electrification, emphasizing the need for smarter immigration and industrial policies to maintain America's technological and geopolitical edge.
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The Middle Class Myth, China's Future, and What Really Happened in 1971
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg debunk myths about the American middle class and globalization, analyze historical data on wage stagnation and trade, assess China’s technological rise, and discuss U.S. economic resilience and policy responses to protectionism.
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You Can't Tariff Your Way to Greatness
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore how nostalgia influences politics and economic policy in the US and China, comparing their consumer cultures, industrial strategies, and the complex effects of tariffs on domestic economies and global relations.
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The Deindustrialization Paradox
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore topics ranging from the futuristic themes of Black Mirror and the societal impact of technology to a critical analysis of Trump’s de-industrializing tariff policies versus Biden’s growth-focused subsidies, while also examining libertarianism’s influence on American politics and the cultural shifts it may entail.
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The Bond Market Rules Everything
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the Trump administration’s trade policies, their impact on U.S. manufacturing and investment, discussing strategies to counter China’s influence through multi-country trade blocs and industrial policy, and examining currency dynamics, economic default risks, and the complexities of global trade.
RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Tools and Weapons with Brad Smi
Tariff Mayhem and Capital Flight
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg analyze the global repercussions of Trump’s broad tariff policies, critique misconceptions about trade deficits, and explore the economic fallout and potential policy responses.
RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Tools and Weapons with Brad Smith
Join Microsoft Vice Chair Brad Smith as he explores tech's impact on society with Bill Gates and Satya Nadella sharing untol
The New Left vs The New Right
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore the rise of the 'abundance' ideology among Democrats, assess Obama's economic legacy, and analyze the New Right's evolving influence, offering a broad perspective on shifting political and economic discourse.
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Abundance Debate, Sex Politics, and Left vs Right Economic Populism
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Tornberg explore Japan’s economic and societal structure—covering urban zoning, housing policy, and government efficiency—before critiquing Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, advocating for balanced market dynamics and governance, and discussing broader socio-political themes like right-wing ideologies, gender in the workforce, and economic populism.
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How Europe, America and China are Repositioning
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore global economic issues, including US-European relations influenced by defense commitments, the impact of Trump’s policies, China’s Belt and Road Initiative and its exclusion of India, the role of AI in economic growth, government spending’s effects on GDP, and briefly discuss Smith’s upcoming book, Weeb Economy, and Noah's trip to Japan.
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Making Sense of America's Tariff Chaos
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the chaos caused by Trump's trade policies, tariffs' effects on the U.S. economy, potential recession risks, economic isolationism, policy uncertainty, investment impacts, and the broader cultural and societal shifts in America, including the decline of Christianity, the rise of wokeness, and community disintegration.
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AI, Stargate, & Surveillance with Auron McIntyre and Lev Polyakov
In this episode, Noah Smith recently went on the Break the Rules podcast, hosted by Lev Polyakov, for a debate with Auron MacIntyre. They discuss the societal implications of AI development, focusing on Trump's relationships with tech leaders, AI systems like Stargate, surveillance, economic productivity, regulatory measures, geopolitical competition, and immigrant labor's role in technological ad
Richard Hanania & Noah Smith: Making Sense of Trump, Elon, and Global Politics
This week, we're sharing Richard Hanania and Noah Smith’s live conversation from Feb 6th, recorded for their Substack audiences. This is the first time the two writers have met, and in this conversation they covered fundamental differences between the American right and left movements. They also discuss Elon Musk's positioning as the future Republican kingmaker and Noah's theory that Musk envisio
Elon calls Noah a Liar, Inflation, and Changes Democrats Need to Make
This week Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss three key areas where Democrats need to rethink their strategy: embracing anti-inflation policies similar to the Clinton era, focusing on genuine threats to democracy rather than partisan hobby horses, and abandoning progressive language policing that alienates voters. Noah also talks about how Elon Musk has transformed Republican effectiveness by br
Europe's Fate, Ukraine & Russia, and the Post-American Era
In this episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss how Ukraine has proven surprisingly resilient throughout the war by maintaining its economy and developing significant domestic drone manufacturing capabilities. He argues that "Europe is not toothless" despite America's shifting role, detailing how Europe collectively has greater manufacturing capacity than America and identifying three key r
How the Macro, Tariffs and DOGE will Impact your Bank Account | Noah Smith on How To Money
This week, we’re bringing you an episode from the How to Money podcast, hosted by Joel Larsgaard and Matt Altmix, with special guest Noah Smith. Together, they dive into a range of topics, including the impact of tariffs, Substack’s revolutionary media model, and Noah’s unique economic philosophy. Tune in for insights on the escalating national debt, the baby bust, and the rising costs of U.S. hea
Elon's Real Goal at DOGE & How to Fix the Debt
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg talk about DOGE, Elon Musk's initiative to reform government spending, and explore why it might be more about ideology than efficiency. Noah talks about how he would fix the US debt beyond simply cutting waste. They also cover the future of major programs like Medicaid ($804B/year), the trade-offs between inflation and austerity, and how conservatives might
Patrick Collison & Noah Smith: How Can the US Stay Ahead Technologically?
This week, Noah Smith and Stripe CEO Patrick Collison recorded a live conversation on Substack covering topics such as American technological leadership, global competition, industrial policy, foreign direct investment, post-financial crisis productivity trends, US financial system advantages, progressive policies, the middle class, tariffs, immigration, technological advancements like humanoid ro
Understanding US-China Relations Right Now with Nathan Labenz
In this week’s episode of Econ 102, Noah Smith, with special guest Nathan Labenz (host of AI podcast The Cognitive Revolution) breaks down the current landscape of U.S.-China relations and how once-allies became rivals under Xi Jinping's aggressive strategies. While China shows growing AI capabilities like DeepSeek, Smith emphasizes that the real concern isn't about AI models but rather military a
Paul Krugman on Leaving NYT, America's Economy, and Trump
This week Noah Smith and economist Paul Krugman hopped on a call to discuss Paul's departure from the New York Times, the benefits of independent writing, U.S. manufacturing and industrial policy, geopolitics, Trump 2.0, and the impact of public opinion on economic and political discourse. This conversation first aired in Noah's substack Noahpinion, so be sure to subscribe if you aren't already. -
Trump's Executive Orders, China's Economy, The Bull Case for the Middle East, and Europe's Decline
In this episode, Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith discuss wide range of topics, including Trump’s executive orders and their effects on U.S. politics, international tariffs, Michael Pettis's views on China's economy, the Middle East’s potential with solar energy, and Europe’s socio-political shifts, all through the lens of economics.--🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https
Noah Smith on Taiwan's Future, Nuclear Proliferation, and Trump 2.0 [ChinaTalk]
While traveling to Taiwan, Noah Smith sat down with ChinaTalk's managing editor and Taipei correspondent Lily Ottinger to explore wide range of geopolitical and economic issues, including the potential impacts of a second Trump administration on Asia, where Elon Musk stands on Taiwan, nuclear proliferation, China's economic strategies, Taiwan's defense and diplomatic policies, and demographic shif
A Debate with Scott Sumner: Industrial Policy, China, and National Security
In this episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg are joined by Scott Sumner, an American economist and previously the Director of the Program on Monetary Policy at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, examine the impact of U.S.-China relations on economic and industrial policies, discussing topics such as tariffs, manufacturing capabilities, technologies like drones and batteries, climate
Canada After Trudeau, Immigration Debate, and China's Economy
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore the possibility of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan, Xi Jinping's political future, U.S.-China tensions, Trump's and Biden's policies, the 2019 global protests, China's economic troubles, and the challenges facing Western nations, while also emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation on U.S. industrial policy.--🙏 Help shape our show by taking our q
Trump, Tariffs, and the New 80s: America's Next Cultural Reset
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss Silicon Valley's cultural influence, Marc Andreessen's predictions, what comes after wokeness, tariffs on China, Reaganomics, the 'polycrisis,' the future of industrial policy, and political dynamics involving Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Paul Krugman.--🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse.--REC
China's Demographic Time Bomb and America's Economic Future
In today's episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg answer listeners' questions and discuss global economic issues such as China's demographic challenges, currency crises, GDP vs. GDP per capita, the efficacy of long prison sentences, and the risks and benefits of economic stimulus, currency depreciation, and trade imbalances.--🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit
Relationships, Gender Wars, and Online Culture with Katherine Dee (Default Friend)
This week, Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith discuss modern dating dynamics, cultural shifts, and the impact of technology and social media on relationships with author and former dating advice columnist Katherine Dee, exploring generational differences contributing to the gender war and the broader societal implications.--🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/Tur
The New Left, Health Insurance Myths, and Solving Underpopulation
Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the high costs of healthcare, the challenges facing the center-left, the possibility of infinite economic growth, solutions to declining fertility rates, and the role of technology in addressing demographic challenges.--🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse.--RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Unpack PricingDive into the
A Debate on Immigration, Ethnostates, and National Identity
This week, Noah Smith talks to Erik Torenberg about his viral post on land acknowledgements, exploring how nations should be defined by institutions rather than ethnic identity. The conversation expands into a discussion of immigration, cultural assimilation, and sovereignty across countries like Israel, Japan, South Korea, and Botswana, examining how different nations navigate the balance between
Vitalik Buterin & Noah Smith | Is Authoritarianism Inevitable?
In today's special episode, we're sharing a conversation between Noah Smith and Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin recorded back in June for the Bankless podcast. They discuss whether authoritarian regimes could outcompete liberal democracies in the 21st century, exploring the impact of technological advancements, the internet, and decentralized technologies like crypto on information dynamics an
DOGE, Political Realignment, and the End of 'Groups'
This week, Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith explore economic policies, political dynamics, societal issues, including the abolition of income tax, government agency efficiency, the evolving political landscape, technology's impact on freedom and dignity, and the challenges of maintaining a competent civil service. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/ab409e21-1697-4621-a9b8-cfd31
Post-Trump Reflections: Fixing Blue Cities
Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the evolution and challenges of urban development in American cities, particularly the rise and fall of blue cities like San Francisco and New York, while exploring historical trends, fiscal policies, and socio-political dynamics. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/69fa9439-ace9-43c3-9a96-9876a7e440bc—RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Unpack PricingD
Trump and Shadow President Elon
Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg analyze the aftermath of the Trump 2024 election, debating what to expect on political strategies, economic policies, and the power of figures like Elon Musk, while discussing potential shifts needed within the Democratic Party to address changing voter demographics. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/7411dfd6-68b4-4590-b8c5-64aac8ba953f--📰 Be n
Trump vs Kamala, Hereticon, Election Craziness
This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg examine the 2024 presidential election, Trump's influence on American politics, and the interplay of conservative movements with domestic and international issues. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/70765901-d8f7-46b6-b580-3cc3f3874b7f--📰 Be notified early when Turpentine drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/ex
Mini: Comparing the New Axis to WWII
Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg analyze the historical Axis powers in comparison to today's emerging adversarial nations, emphasizing geopolitical dynamics, military capabilities, and the evolving balance of power. For full shownotes, visit highlight: https://highlightai.com/share/577e5681-76d2-498c-8ebc-7b136b1b598f--Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.
Mini: Tariffs on China, Trump, and National Security
Noah breaks down the number one issue no one is grappling with in regards to tariffs on China. For full shownotes, visit highlight: https://highlightai.com/share/1835116c-516d-4cab-a2ee-19f4504bc263--Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess--SPONSOR:GiveWellGiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable
Progressivism: Past, Present, Future
This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg delivers a masterful analysis of American progressivism's rise, fall, and potential future resurrection as a class-focused movement in the 2030s. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/c29e2f67-3580-4753-913b-f87c744c6118--📰Be notified early when Turpentine drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess --REC
Comparing Trump, Biden, and Obama's China Strategies
Noah Smith breaks down the last two decades of US-China policy shifts - and where we go from here in anticipation of the November election. Let us know if you like these short-form Econ 102 friday bonus episodes by emailing econ102@turpentine.co.--Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess--SPONSOR:GiveWellGiveWell spends 50,000 hours every
Why Nations Fail, AI & Jobs, Economics as a Science
This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg tackle the shift in economic research from empirical studies to "big think" theories, critically examine Acemoglu's work on institutions and AI's impact on jobs, and debate the future of economics as a science.--🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/--RECOMMENDED PODCAST:🎙️ This
Kamala vs. Trump: Economic Plans and Foreign Policy Showdown
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the political nuances that influence the Republican and Democratic parties in the U.S. They explore the historical shifts in party dynamics, immigration policies, and the evolving economic strategies under potential future administrations. --🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/--REC
International Development, The Reserve Currency, and Xi Jinping’s Legacy
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg unpack China's economic strategies under Xi Jinping, from the controversial tech crackdown to the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative. They explore the intricacies of international currency dynamics, dissect Ben Bernanke's pivotal role in the 2008 financial crisis, and examine the complex effects of brain drain on developing nations.--🔥 Apply to join over 40
Noah's new book topic, Evaluating Immigration, Saving Midwestern Cities
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg dive into the complexities of immigration, global economic development, and cultural stereotypes. Noah also shares insights from his upcoming book on reviving Japan's economy, examining strategies like innovation, reforming large corporations, and attracting foreign investments.--🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network
Fracking, China, Immigration
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore the complexities surrounding fracking, China's economic growth and challenges, and tackle a controversy in Springfield involving false claims about Haitian immigrants and the larger implications for U.S. immigration policy.--🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/--RECOMMENDED
Preparing for a Second China Shock and Bad Economists with Brad DeLong
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Brad DeLong tackle pressing topics such as the potential for a 'China Shock 2', the effectiveness of missile defense systems, and the shifting role of economists since the Great Recession. They also explore the nuances of economic theory, policy implementation, and real-world outcomes, particularly in a fast-paced information age. --🔥 Apply to join over 400 Found
![The New Axis, Neoliberalism, and Germany [Mailbag]](https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/2e1e7f/2e1e7fab-705e-4b9e-a7a3-ab2ff6d3b565/4f6c6cf0-503d-4b3f-96b7-57193ff02138/3000x3000/67b38b69722c263a4c486213e7a23b10.png?aid=rss_feed)
The New Axis, Neoliberalism, and Germany [Mailbag]
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg summon their next dream guest and tackle some listener questions, including the role of economists in predicting outcomes, China's industrial strategy, the new axis, the state of Germany and Britain, and the legacy of neoliberalism.--🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/--RECOMMENDE
Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei on AI's Moat, Risk, and SB 1047
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg are joined by Dario Amodei, CEO and Co-founder of Anthropic. Dario talks about the economics of AI development, the comparative advantage of AI companies like Anthropic, AI safety, and his stance on California's SB 1047 bill. They also discuss the impacts of AI on global power dynamics, competition between the US and China, and inequality in an AI-powered w
Kamala/Trump Policy Discussion: Housing, Immigration, Tariffs
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore the the policies of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, complexities of housing affordability and wealth storage, challenges in immigration policies, and critique the effectiveness of tariffs.🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqjRECOMMENDED PODCAST:🎙️ This Won't Last
Tech Maturity and What Lies Ahead
This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the differentiation between technology and 'tech' as an investment category, the future of AI, potential profitability of AI companies, and the challenges faced by VC investors in the AI space.🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj--RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:🎙️ This
Explaining Kamala’s VP Pick, the US Economy, Venezuela’s Fall and China’s Rise
This week, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the implications of Tim Walz as Kamala Harris' VP pick, the stock market chaos of Monday August 5th, the state of the U.S. economy, the economic collapse of Venezuela, and the growth of East Asian countries. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj--RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:🎙️ Th
AI, Software, and White-Collar Jobs
In today's episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg tackle pressing listener questions focused on the economic impact of AI, software, immigration, and more. They also cover the potential for economic development in poor countries and the evolving nature of industrial policy in the US and China.🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to
Kamala's Chances, Biden/Trump's Legacy
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the potential of Kamala Harris as a presidential nominee, President Biden’s legacy, impact of COVID-19 on the economy and inflation, and the recent shifts in U.S. foreign relations and immigration policies.🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj--RECOMMENDED PODCAST
J.D. Vance, Biden's Path Forward, and Silicon Valley’s Shift to Trump
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the nomination of JD Vance as Vice President, Trump's political strategies, and the potential geopolitical shifts with a focus on China. The conversation also covers Biden's policy continuity and the role of tech leaders in shaping political directions. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz
Evaluating Trump’s Policy Platform
This week on ECON 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the Republican Party platform and its focus on economic issues. They also cover the influence of Trump-era policies, the evolving stance on immigration policies, cost reduction on education, housing and healthcare - and what Noah would do if he was the enlightened despot in charge of the US. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in
The 'Be Careful What You Wish For' Episode
This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg celebrate America by discussing its future. They explore the 2024 presidential outlook, the Chevron ruling from the Supreme Court, and the polarization of the education system. Noah and Erik also discuss where wokeness goes from here, and the potential outcomes of integrating more conservatives into the civil service through initiatives like Pro
Trump/Biden, Chomsky/Foreign Policy, & Romantic Relationships
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg answer listener questions on intriguing topics from politics to personal relationships. They analyze Donald Trump, discuss Chomsky's influence on foreign policy, explore the economics of dating markets, and discuss Noah's theory 'why sex leads to love'.🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typefo
The Macro Episode
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg dive into some listener questions on economics and macroeconomics issues. They discuss the Federal Reserve's strategy on interest rates, the complexities of macroeconomic prediction, the evolution of industrial policy, and pick the best economists of all time.🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y
Europe, Immigration, and Taiwan
Today Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg answer more listener questions covering the surge of support for the hard right in European elections, the impact of immigration in Europe and the US, the future of Social Security, the stability of banks, and the best and worst taxes in the US. They also dive into the negative impact of China conquering Taiwan and why it is important to stand up against China's
The Vibecession & the Future Economy under Trump vs Biden with Kyla Scanlon
In this episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg are joined by Kyla Scanlon, creator, writer, analyst, and author of new book “In this Economy?" They discuss the vibecession, the housing crisis, leader fatigue, and the impact of the economy on political polarization and the age of austerity. The conversation also covers the impact of Trump's economic policies, the risk of hyperinflation, and the pot
Elite Overproduction and the Future of the Right
Today Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the recent angry posts on X from David Austin Walsh, a history postdoc at Yale, and what this controversy says about the social and economic trends of the elite in the US. They also cover the the rise of right-wing muckrakers, discuss what the conservative movement needs now, and who they consider the smartest thinkers today are - on the left and the rig
Controlling US Inflation, Global Trade, and the Future of India and Japan
In today’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg respond to pressing questions on US inflation, the possibility of the US becoming a petro-state, global trade dynamics in the context of geopolitical shifts, the potential impacts of de-dollarization, and the sustainability of defense strategies. They also cover the impact of recent wars, and discuss India and Japan. Thanks to all the listeners who
Case for Biden, Biden vs Trump, China
In this week’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg explore various aspects of Joe Biden’s presidency to evaluate a case for reelecting Biden, focusing on economic policy shifts, spending concerns, inflation, and industrial policy. They also emphasize the historical and current political dynamics between the U.S. and China, exploring tariffs, trade, oil production, and technology, with a nuanced
Biden's New Tax Plan, Algorithmic Pricing, and Noah's Media Diet
This week on Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the pros and cons of Biden's tax plan based on Noah's recent essay. They also answered listener questions on the German economy's success, Japan's government debt management, and strategies for staying well-informed on economic issues.Recommended Podcast: Company BreakdownsEach episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-a
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How the Fed Works, Currency Crises, and TikTok ban [Listener Mailbag]
In today's episode of Econ 102, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg tackle more listener questions: the Fed's impact on inflation and the economy, theories behind interest rates' unexpected effects, and 'greedflation'. The discussion also extends to shifts in Japan's economic policies amid currency valuation concerns, housing price disparities between the US and Canada, gentrification, balanced budget a
Wealth Distribution, Fixing Healthcare, and UBI
In today's episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg answer listeners' questions in rapid fire format, over topics such as the global reserve currency, fair taxation, wealth redistribution, education reform, healthcare, US manufacturing, how to revitalize cities, and more. Thanks to all our listeners who continue to write in with big meaty questions!This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of p
WW3 Analysis: China, The US, Ukraine, The Middle East
In this week’s episode, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg tackle more listeners' questions focused on conflicts and war. They cover various defense strategies, emphasizing the urgency of revitalizing the U.S. defense industrial base to prepare for potential conflicts. They discuss the differences between authoritarian and democratic powers, highlighting the significant risk of World War III and the im
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