Best Erik Torenberg Podcasts (2024)

1
E41: Meta’s Open Source Strategy, Amazon’s Culture Drift, and What’s Going on With Character.AI 54:40

4h ago54:40

54:40

This week, Byrne and Erik discuss Meta’s open source strategy, Google’s hiring of Character.AI’s CEO, the calculus behind the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and more. 🔥Apply to join over 400 founders and execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj --- RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, c…

1
Tech Maturity and What Lies Ahead 1:05:26

2h ago1:05:26

1:05:26

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.type…

1
The Eastern European Experiment 59:12

2h ago59:12

59:12

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja dive deep into the complex transformation of Eastern Europe since the fall of communism. They discuss the region's economic evolution from small business-driven economies to potential tech hubs, examine how countries like Poland balance traditional values with Western influences, and an…

1
Ancient Greece 1:04:51

4d ago1:04:51

1:04:51

In this episode of History 102, WhatIfAltHists creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg uncover the diverse and fascinating world of ancient Greek city-states, beyond Athens and Sparta, and their unique cultures. Discover the realities of ancient Greece beyond the myths, including its complex social structures, its role in philosophy, and its impac…

1
E71: Marc Andreessen on Higher Education and Tech Culture 33:39

4d ago33:39

33:39

In this episode of Upstream, we’re releasing an interview from 2021 with Marc Andreessen, Sriram Krishnan, and Aarthi Ramamurthy. They discuss the higher education system's inefficiencies, high costs and lack of competition, and explore innovative education models including cohort-based learning and unbundling education components. Marc shares pers…

1
E40: The Age of the AI Organization 1:05:36

5d ago1:05:36

1:05:36

This week, Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg are joined by Omar Shams, the founder of Mutable AI, for a deep dive into Omar’s great piece, The AI Organization. In this conversation, they explore the potential of AI to transform organizational productivity, the limitations of financial metrics in GDP, and AI's role in political processes and societal …

1
Explaining Kamala’s VP Pick, the US Economy, Venezuela’s Fall and China’s Rise 1:04:23

7d ago1:04:23

1:04:23

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.ty…

1
E70: Katherine Boyle on Religion, Journalism, and Polarization 59:16

11d ago59:16

59:16

In this episode of Upstream, we revisit a 2020 conversation with Erik Torenberg and Katherine Boyle exploring the intersection of religion and media in this tech-driven world. Katherine discusses her Washington Post article on how San Francisco's tech advancements have largely bypassed religious institutions. They explore the factors behind this ga…

1
EU in Flux 1:02:29

11d ago1:02:29

1:02:29

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja dive deep into the European Union. They examine the bloc's historical foundation centered on peace and economic prosperity, contrasting its ambitious goals with its current realities. They discuss EU's challenges, including a fragmented digital market, inconsistencies in labor and defen…

1
Mesopotamia 1:01:53

11d ago1:01:53

1:01:53

In this episode of History 102, join WhatIfAltHists creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg as they explore the intricate history of Mesopotamia. This episode dives into the origins, advancements, and eventual decline of one of the world's earliest civilizations, covering everything from early agriculture to the prominent empires and their societa…

1
E39: Mental Models and Financial Infrastructure with Patrick McKenzie 1:03:12

13d ago1:03:12

1:03:12

This week, Byrne Hobart is joined by Patrick McKenzie (patio11), host of the podcast Complex Systems, to discuss the complexity and endless fascination of financial infrastructures, the role of fraud in finance, talent spotting strategies and the importance of building networks. 🔥Apply to join over 400 founders and execs in the Turpentine Network: …

1
AI, Software, and White-Collar Jobs 1:01:42

16d ago1:01:42

1:01:42

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 Turp…

1
Imperial Russia 1:01:44

15d ago1:01:44

1:01:44

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg Explore the tumultuous history of Imperial Russia, from its Viking origins to the rise of the Romanovs and the impact of the Mongols. When did Russia truly become a significant player on the global stage, and what were the key events that solidified its status? L…

1
E69: Balaji Srinivasan on the Rise of the Tech Counter Elites 1:43:50

18d ago1:43:50

1:43:50

Last week, Erik Torenberg sat down with Balaji Srinivasan to discuss the vibe shift to the right in Silicon Valley, particularly after the attempted assassination of President Trump. This episode originally aired in Moment of Zen. They discuss the rising tensions between tech counter-elites and political incumbents, and why tech is at odds with "Am…

1
Advice for the Next US President 56:21

18d ago56:21

56:21

In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja tackle the pressing challenges for the next U.S. president, focusing on bureaucratic inefficiencies and the need for reform. They discuss foreign policy, including managing relations with China, reassessing military strategies, and fostering economic alliances. They also address the ine…

1
Kamala's Chances, Biden/Trump's Legacy 1:01:14

21d ago1:01:14

1:01:14

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://hmplog…

1
E38: Resurgence of Prediction Markets, AI Adoption and Complex Financial Systems 1:01:14

19d ago1:01:14

1:01:14

This week, Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg discuss the resurgence of prediction markets, the balance of sophisticated vs. 'dumb' money, Biden's nomination odds and the impact of AI on software economics. 🔥Apply to join over 400 founders and execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj --- SPONSORS: BABBEL: 🌐 Ready t…

1
Brazil: A Country of the Future? 59:34

23d ago59:34

59:34

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg talk about why Brazil hasn't lived up to its expectations as a global powerhouse. Despite having immense natural resources, a large population, and a favorable geographic position, Brazil's industrialization has been stymied by high crime rates, severe corruption, and political dysfunction. They dig in…

1
E68: Tyler Cowen on Talent, the Importance of Stamina, and Predicting Success 56:37

26d ago56:37

56:37

This week on Upstream, we’re releasing a fascinating discussion with economist, professor, and bestselling author Tyler Cowen about how to find talented people. This was recorded in 2022 around the launch of his book 'Talent: How to Identify Energizers, Creatives, and Winners Around the World' co-authored with Daniel Gross. Tyler and Erik discuss s…

1
Byzantine Empire 1:10:29

26d ago1:10:29

1:10:29

In this episode of History 102, WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg talk about the story of the Byzantine Empire, Rome's eastern successor, and how it thrived while the West crumbled. They also discuss on the Byzantine Empire's constant battles against invaders and how it defied expectations to survive for a millennium. Why is th…

1
E37: 2024 Election Updates, Partisanship on Wikipedia, and Amazon’s Media Business 59:56

26d ago59:56

59:56

On this week’s episode of The Riff, Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg discuss how the 2024 presidential election has changed, why Wikipedia’s partisanship problem is difficult to solve, and the strategy behind Amazon’s media business. 🔥Apply to join over 400 founders and execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj --…

1
J.D. Vance, Biden's Path Forward, and Silicon Valley’s Shift to Trump 1:05:49

30d ago1:05:49

1:05:49

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 …

1
Can China Power its Rise? 56:39

1M 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
E67: A Deep Dive on René Girard with David Gornoski 1:24:57

1M ago1:24:57

1:24:57

This week on Upstream, we're releasing a 2019 interview with David Gornoski and Erik Torenberg on the Village Global podcast, offering a deep dive into René Girard's Mimetic Theory, exploring its far-reaching societal impacts and surprising connections to ancient rituals and myths. They unpack the concept of mimetic desire and the profound influenc…

1
Christianity 1:03:08

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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

1M 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
E66: Noah Smith on 2024 Election Strategy, American Civil Service, and Cash Benefits 1:00:49

1M ago1:00:49

1:00:49

In this week’s episode of Upstream, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss America's future. They cover the 2024 presidential race, 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 ci…

1
E65: Bret Weinstein on Evolutionary Biology, Markets, Moral Progress, and More 1:17:00

2M ago1:17:00

1:17:00

This week on Upstream, we’re airing an interview with evolutionary biologist Bret Weinstein from 2020, originally from the Village Global podcast. They discuss Weinstein's work on evolutionary trade-offs, the intersection of markets and moral progress, as well as future governance. beehiiv: Head to https://beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20…

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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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
E64: Richard Hanania on Trump's Genius, Antisemitism, and Election Predictions 1:13:44

2M ago1:13:44

1:13:44

In this episode of Upstream, Erik Torenberg and Richard Hanania discuss the surprising support for Donald Trump within Silicon Valley, contrasting it with earlier elections. They also explore reasons behind this shift, such as anti-wokeness sentiments, dissatisfaction with left economic policies, and the Democrats' anti-tech stance. beehiiv: Head t…

1
Communism 1:00:48

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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
E63: Balaji Srinivasan and Glen Weyl on Decentralized Governance, Politics, and History 1:20:29

2M ago1:20:29

1:20:29

In 2019 Erik Torenberg sat down with Balaji Srinivasan and Glen Weyl to talk about the future of a decentralized world. They cover decentralized governance, politics, voting, and more. This conversation was recorded orginally for Village Global's Venture Stories. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogx…

1
The Power Structures of Cities 51:52

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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
E62: Mike Solana on Thinking Freely and What Tech Means for Culture 1:12:00

2M ago1:12:00

1:12:00

In 2020 Erik Torenberg sat down with Mike Solana, then VP at Founders Fund (now the Editor In Chief of Pirate Wires) to go deeper into his commitment to controversial ideas and freedom. He discusses the dynamics of America's culture wars, debating freedom vs. equality, the resurgence of Marxism, and the roots of anti-American sentiment. This conver…

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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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
Ancient China 59:07

3M 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…

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