Best Toren Podcasts (2024)

1
Can China Power its Rise? 56:39

1d ago56:39

56:39

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss China's energy strategy and its broader geopolitical implications. Contrary to popular belief, China is not aggressively pursuing energy independence but remains reliant on imports despite significant domestic oil production. The conversation delves into China's geopolitical strategy, its milit…

1
Christianity 1:03:08

1d ago1:03:08

1:03:08

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg explore the surprising origins of Christianity. From a carpenter's son's teachings to its unexpected rise to global dominance, discover how this religion, appealing to the marginalized, provided a sense of community and purpose in a brutal world. Learn how this r…

1
E36: Meritocracy, Modeling Globalization, and The Burden of Knowledge 1:02:25

2d ago1:02:25

1:02:25

This week, Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg dive deep into David Graeber's controversial concept of 'Bullshit Jobs,' exploring its validity and impact. They also discuss the future of labor and employment in the era of AI, the intricate dynamics of globalization, and the complexities of corporate governance. 🔥Apply to join over 400 founders and exec…

1
Evaluating Trump’s Policy Platform 1:01:32

3d ago1:01:32

1:01:32

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 …

1
The Slave Trade 1:03:31

7d ago1:03:31

1:03:31

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discuss the history of the Muslim slave trade, a forgotten tragedy that predates and rivals the Atlantic slave trade in both scale and brutality. Dive into the complex dynamics and enduring impact of this dark chapter in African history, and explore the Muslim an…

1
E35: How to Be President, the Future of AI Celebrities, and Training Larger AI Models 1:00:17

7d ago1:00:17

1:00:17

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne discuss the evolution of monetary systems, the economics of AI investments, and how AI is impacting the job market for junior software developers. 🔥Apply to join over 400 founders and execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj --- SPONSORS: BABBEL: 🌐 Ready to achi…

1
The 'Be Careful What You Wish For' Episode 59:22

7d ago59:22

59:22

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 i…

1
# 99 Sharen Carey: 40 years of providing healthcare in Big Sur! 1:19:46

11d ago1:19:46

1:19:46

In 1984 Sharen came to Big Sur and since then she has been proving Big Sur with excellent healthcare. It was an honor for me to speak with her. Please email with any questions, suggestions etc. Thanks for listening! BIG SUR HEALTH CENTER Support the Show. _________________________________________________ This podcast is a production of the Henry Mi…

1
Axial Age: History's Turning Point 1:03:40

17d ago1:03:40

1:03:40

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg dive deep into the Axial Age, a transformative time that birthed new philosophies and religions. Uncover the surprising link between the invention of coinage, explore the decline of traditional religions, and discover the reasons why people sought new spiritual p…

1
E34: Chamath & Tinder, Threads API, and the Difficulties of Scaling AI Labs 1:04:41

17d ago1:04:41

1:04:41

This week, Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg discuss a lesser-known Chamath Palihapitiya story, the index rebalancing trade as a postmodern part of finance, AI labs, crypto, and more. beehiiv: Head to https://beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months. Byrne Hobart is hiring an associate! Check out the JD here: https://www.the…

1
Trump/Biden, Chomsky/Foreign Policy, & Romantic Relationships 1:07:10

19d ago1:07:10

1:07:10

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…

1
Communism 1:00:48

24d ago1:00:48

1:00:48

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg talk about the brutal cost of communist ideology, from mass killings to cultural destruction, and the psychological motivations driving its appeal. From Marx to Mao, explore the rise, fall, and enduring legacy of communism, its impact on history, and its surprisi…

1
E33: AI Therapy, 4chan, and Why Conferences Are Like Cities 1:06:30

24d ago1:06:30

1:06:30

This week, writer Byrne Hobart and investor Erik Torenberg discuss the economics of conferences and cities, rise of meme stocks, future of coding in the age of AI and more. beehiiv: Head to https://beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplo…

1
The Macro Episode 56:34

25d ago56:34

56:34

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 E…

1
The Power Structures of Cities 51:52

30d ago51:52

51:52

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the enduring influence of cities on human civilization, exploring their role as the longest-lived human institutions and their impact on social and political structures. They also examine the common criticisms of modern cities like San Francisco, their political landscape and the legacy of Democratic and Republ…

1
Rise of Islam 55:56

1M ago55:56

55:56

This episode of History 102 explores the fascinating rise of Islam, its Golden Age, and its decline, unpacking the cultural, political, and economic factors that shaped this pivotal period in history. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lyn…

1
E32: Populism, Elites, and Preparing for AGI 56:43

1M ago56:43

56:43

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne discuss populist cycles, why billionaires buy media companies, how to invest if you think AGI is coming soon, and more. beehiiv: Head to https://beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogx…

1
Europe, Immigration, and Taiwan 1:04:49

1M ago1:04:49

1:04:49

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 a…

1
# 98 On the Warpath: My Battles With Indians, Pretendians, and Woke Warriors 1:10:27

1M ago1:10:27

1:10:27

New Title by Elizabeth Weiss: On the Warpath: My Battles With Indians, Pretendians, and Woke Warriors. Previous podcast episode with Elizabeth Weiss Elizabeth at the Heterodox Academy Recent article in the NY Post Magnus reached out to the faculty at Anthropology Dept. and received no response or a response saying "I decline" with a referral to the…

1
The Turbulence of Boeing: Decline and Future Prospects 49:23

1M ago49:23

49:23

Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg talk about the decline of Boeing. They discuss Boeing's recent troubles, including fatal crashes and maintenance problems, and how these issues reflect broader concerns about U.S. industrial and military capabilities. The conversation also covers the impact of globalization on Boeing's manufacturing processes, competit…

1
Medieval Europe 1:07:56

1M ago1:07:56

1:07:56

This episode of History 102 explores the European Middle Ages, its misunderstood aspects, technological and social advancements, and critical events. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discover how the seemingly "dark" medieval era set the stage for the scientific revolution, the age of exploration, and the rise of modern Europe…

1
E31: Google API Documentation Leak, Apple's Plans for Siri, and Analyzing Texas Instruments 46:28

1M ago46:28

46:28

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne discuss Elon Musk's and Yann Lecun's Tweets, what we can learn from Google's API decumentation leaks, how Apple is planning on improving Siri, and more. beehiiv: Head to https://beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Tu…

1
The Vibecession & the Future Economy under Trump vs Biden with Kyla Scanlon 1:08:53

1M ago1:08:53

1:08:53

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…

1
# 97 Breakfast at Deetjen's with Shelley Newell 2:02:19

1M ago2:02:19

2:02:19

Breakfast at Deetjen's with Shelley Newell (episode is unexpurgated and approved by the authority) I so thoroughly enjoyed this episode! Her ability to recall so many characters and stories through the years in such vivid detail was incredible. I loved hearing all of the background sounds over breakfast at Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn! / Stephanie Ann Rig…

1
Ancient China 59:07

1M ago59:07

59:07

This episode of History 102 delves deeply into the ancient history of China, from its foundation around 2000 BC to the fall of the Han Dynasty around 200 AD. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg also explore the rise and fall of the Shang, Zhou, Qin, and Han dynasties, uncovering the political and social forces that shaped ancient…

1
E30: xAI Fundraising, Vivek's BuzzFeed Investment, and Ad-Based AI Monetization 1:03:05

1M ago1:03:05

1:03:05

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne talk about xAI's fundraising round, Vivek Ramaswamy's investment in BuzzFeed, and the dynamics of using ads to monetize AI. beehiiv: Head to https://beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmp…

1
Live Players Analysis: Drug Cartels in Mexico 44:29

1M ago44:29

44:29

In this episode of 'Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss the intricate dynamics of Mexican drug cartels and their impact on both Mexico's political and economic landscape. The discussion delves deep into how drug revenues sustain elites, non-state actors, and insurgencies worldwide — with notable examples from the Taliban to Chechen …

1
Elite Overproduction and the Future of the Right 1:02:29

2M ago1:02:29

1:02:29

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 sma…

1
How to Find the Frontiers of Knowledge, Samo Burja for The Stoa 56:59

2M ago56:59

56:59

Today we're publishing a talk Samo Burja gave to The Stoa in 2020 all about how to find and advance uncrystallized fields of knowledge. In this discussion, Samo critiques current academia for its inefficiencies and proposes supporting new intellectual endeavors with proper economic and social incentives. The discussion covers the potential for new …

1
#96 Iguana John speaks about his early life. 33:20

2M ago33:20

33:20

We lost Iguana John Thursday morning, May 23. He died from heart failure at the Community Hospital. John was born John Carlin in January of 1956. Many of us here in Big Sur have been touched by John. He did indeed have an Iguana on his shoulder for many years. Both his parents were deaf so John signed fluent ALS (American sign language). He lived f…

1
E29: Meme Stocks, Reserve Currencies, and the Case Against Home Ownership 1:07:19

2M ago1:07:19

1:07:19

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne talk about meme stocks, the nature of reserve currencies, and why you should consider not owning a home in America. beehiiv: Head to https://beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y…

1
Controlling US Inflation, Global Trade, and the Future of India and Japan 59:12

2M ago59:12

59:12

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 discus…

1
Ancient India 1:04:24

2M ago1:04:24

1:04:24

This episode of History 102 dives into ancient India, exploring its rich civilizations, philosophical divergences from the West, and the profound influence of the caste system on its society. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg also debunk myths and explore the real impact of the caste system, Hindu nationalism, and the arrival o…

1
E28: Amazon’s Potential for an Airline, Hidden Economic Gains, and the Nature of Equities 1:03:04

2M ago1:03:04

1:03:04

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne talk about Amazon’s potential to buy a passenger airline, hidden economic gains, equities, and more. beehiiv: Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/t…

1
# 95 Dave Nelson: Father, Husband, Naturalist & Big Sur Neighbor... 1:25:30

2M ago1:25:30

1:25:30

Some of the people and places we touch on: Jeff Norman Peter Cummings Gary Breschini Trudy Haversat Terry Jones Alfred Kroeber J.P. Harrington The Rat Creek Fire Fort Hunter Liggett Butterflies in Big Sur Big Sur Watersheds Fair Watershed as an idea/concept CB-handles: The Green Pea The Hook Red Tail Sticky Wicket Big Sur thirty years from now THAN…

1
Case for Biden, Biden vs Trump, China 49:21

2M ago49:21

49:21

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, tra…

1
WW2 in the Pacific 1:06:48

2M ago1:06:48

1:06:48

This episode of History 102 features a follow up analysis of World War II focused on Japan, China, and the events located in the Pacific. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discuss the build-up to the Pacific War, the geopolitical backdrop of Japan's militaristic expansion, and the cultural psyche that fueled its aggressive acti…

1
Biden's New Tax Plan, Algorithmic Pricing, and Noah's Media Diet 57:44

2M ago57:44

57:44

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 Breakdowns Each episode …

1
E27: Costco's Business Model, Martingale Strategies, and Usage-Based Lock-in for AI 52:37

2M ago52:37

52:37

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne talk about how to apply Costco's business model in other industries, the risky business of Martingale strategies, usage as a potential barrier to AI model development, and more. Get Harmonic: Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine during your demo. --- This sh…

1
WW2 59:09

2M ago59:09

59:09

This episode of History 102 features a comprehensive analysis of World War II. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discuss the build-up to the war, including the aftermath of World War I and the conditions in Europe that led to the rise of Hitler. Recommendations for further reading on the subject are provided, enhancing understa…

1
Academia's Impact on Society | Rudyard Lynch Interviews Samo Burja 1:03:26

2M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

In this episode of Live Players, Rudyard Lynch (@whatifalthist on YouTube) interviews Samo Burja and covers a range of topics including why Samo left academia, the current state of education, the impact of bureaucratization and managerial ideology on society, and the state of democracy and legislation in modern Western societies. This conversation …

1
# 94 The California Skywatcher: A conversation with author William Selby 1:42:07

2M ago1:42:07

1:42:07

Where to find the best weather forecast and why it is always right. What about the Big Sur weather? Will we survive the upcoming weather? Plus many more questions answered by: Author and Earth Scientist William Selby! www.rediscoveringthegoldenstate.com >>>>>>>>>> National Weather Service Bjorn Lomborg Support the Show. ____________________________…

1
E26: Stripe's Unbundling Strategy, What AI Means for Education, and 24-Hour Markets 1:05:20

2M ago1:05:20

1:05:20

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne discuss AI & education, Stripe's shift towards unbundling, and the possibility of 24 hour markets. Get Harmonic: Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine during your demo. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, cov…

1
How the Fed Works, Currency Crises, and TikTok ban [Listener Mailbag] 46:41

3M ago46:41

46:41

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 th…

1
The Spanish Empire 1:06:26

3M ago1:06:26

1:06:26

In this episode of History 102, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg delve into critical historical moments and patterns, focusing on the Spanish Empire's unique and often overlooked role in shaping the modern world. This episode challenges common historical narratives by examining Spain's extractive policies, and the consequences of its colonization e…

1
The Future of Democracy 1:14:42

3M ago1:14:42

1:14:42

This episode features Erik and Samo's 2nd-ever interview for the Venture Stories podcast, an in-depth discussion of geopolitics, statecraft, and the study of society. It was recorded in 2019. They cover: how might cryptocurrencies increase centralized state power? What do our economic analyses miss when they do not look inside the inner workings of…

1
E25: Lambda School Drama, Meta's Path to AI, and Why Hardware Constraints Protect Your Privacy 1:09:26

3M ago1:09:26

1:09:26

On this week's episode of The Riff, Erik and Byrne discuss income sharing agreements, the privacy/security/usability efficient frontier, and how Meta ended up with all their GPUs. Get Harmonic: Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine during your demo. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcas…

1
Wealth Distribution, Fixing Healthcare, and UBI 1:06:19

3M ago1:06:19

1:06:19

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! …

1
Rise of Rome 1:01:59

3M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

In this episode of History 102, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg explore the rise of Rome, from its origins as a small settlement in Central Italy to becoming a dominant force in the known world, drawing parallels between historical events and modern-day societal patterns. They discuss themes of decadence, social cohesion, and the cyclical nature o…

1
# 93 My Father Shot a Tiger: Talking about Nagaland with Easterine Kire 1:24:02

3M ago1:24:02

1:24:02

Easterine Kire Nagaland Sky is My Father by Easterine Kire Naga Voices from the War, a presentation by Easterine Kire __________ Early impressions of Nagaland / short video Talking to you from a rooftop in Viswema / short video __________ Languages disappearing __________ Writers we mention: Chinua Achebe, Nigeria Ngugi wa Thiongo, Nigeria Amos Tut…

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