"Live Players" with Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg

Turpentine
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"Live Players" with Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg

See the world through the eyes of society's greatest rule-breakers. The "Live Players" podcast charts the key individuals shaping our future from first principles across multiple domains: business, politics, philanthropy, and broadcasting from the digital town square Join host Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg as they analyze the mindsets of today's most intriguing business leaders, investors, and innovators through the lens of their bold actions and contrarian worldviews. You'll come away with a deeper understanding of the development of technology, business, political power, culture and more. If you want more than soundbites and sensationalism, this podcast delivers reasoned reflections on the live players who renew and transform civilization, whether we ask them to or not. Topics frequently covered: Business titans, political players, and philanthropists like Elon Musk, Sam Altman, Peter Thiel, George Soros, Donald Trump, and more with the power to remake industries, policies, borders, or societal norms. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co

  1. OCT 14

    Urbanization, Technology, and Global Shifts

    Today on Live Players, we’re releasing an interview from Steve Hsu on the Manifold Podcast with Samo Burja. They unravel the complexities of our world, discussing China's rise, Europe's future, and industrial shifts. This episode delves into unique research methods, journalism challenges, and the dynamic ecosystem of Silicon Valley. They explored urbanization impacts, labor shortages, and the evolution of cultural and political movements, and the strategic roles of industry giants, the potential for retired tech experts in science, and the crossroads where intellectual life meets venture capital. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/  — SPONSORS: Weights & Biases Weave is a lightweight AI developer toolkit designed to simplify your LLM app development. With Weave, you can trace and debug input, metadata and output with just 2 lines of code. Make real progress on your LLM development and visit the following link to get started with Weave today: https://wandb.me/cr  Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Manifold Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3zuFjXkJWBhQeNWYTaCdEX?si=cfe3d9c5c4f94932  — FOLLOW ON X: @hsu_steve @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (02:22) Discussion on Palladium Magazine (11:56) Insights on Bismarck Analysis (19:50) The role of technology and innovation (20:43) Sponsors: Weights & Biases | Brave (33:17) Effective altruism and rationalism (49:53) Global technological collaboration (50:29) China's strategic moves in tech (51:34) US and South Korea's strategic options (53:59) China's provincial strategies (55:25) China vs. South Korea in various industries (56:58) The Future of Europe and its challenges (01:15:08) Urbanization and its impact on fertility (01:27:15) Intellectual pursuits and modern challenges (01:37:37) Wrap

    1h 42m

  2. OCT 4

    The Possibility of Human Extinction

    This episode of Live Players centers on the alarming issue of declining fertility rates worldwide, examining specific country examples such as Japan, South Korea, and Turkey, and the societal and technological implications of these demographic changes.  Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg explore potential interventions, such as tax breaks for families, and the possibility of extreme measures like state-managed reproduction programs. They also tackle cultural and economic factors influencing fertility and the urgency of addressing this underpopulation crisis to prevent civilizational collapse.  — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/  — SPONSOR: Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Who is Portugal For? by Vasco Queirós: https://www.palladiummag.com/2024/02/23/who-is-portugal-for/  The Long Now Foundation: https://longnow.org/  — FOLLOW ON X: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:29) Demographic challenges and fertility crisis (02:07) Global fertility trends and anomalies (07:50) The impact of modernity on fertility (14:04) Future population projections and concerns (16:52) Sponsor: Brave (17:56) Life expectancy and healthspan (22:42) Potential solutions and interventions (31:17) The implications of declining fertility rates (34:04) Urbanization and population shifts (36:19) The future of industrial society (38:57) AI and human extinction scenarios (41:51) Cultural and political dynamics of fertility (50:52) Innovative solutions to population decline (58:33) The ethics of genetic engineering (59:53) Wrap

    1h 5m

  3. SEP 27

    Palladium, Intellectual Culture, and Silicon Valley

    In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the unique role of Palladium Magazine as a non-profit that promotes intellectual and cultural community-building. They highlight the magazine’s focus on 'governance futurism' and the importance of creating new and inspiring thought while remaining non-partisan. They also explore the concept of functional elites and the need to rejuvenate cultural and intellectual scenes, with specific examples from San Francisco's dynamic environment. They also cover the broader social and political implications of modern tech-centric culture and its potential future trajectories. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/  — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj 🎙️Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812  — SPONSOR: Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Palladium Magazine: https://www.palladiummag.com/  Quit Your Job: https://www.palladiummag.com/2022/01/06/quit-your-job/  — FOLLOW ON X: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:28) The vision behind Palladium Magazine (00:45) Challenges and opportunities in intellectual projects (01:46) The role of Palladium in modern discourse (04:49) Governance futurism and technological change (14:51) The importance of functional elites (20:20) Reviving public discourse (24:29) Intellectual Renaissance in San Francisco (25:32) Silicon Valley's existential questions (26:47) The rise of performance art in tech (28:53) The cultural impact of social media influencers (31:06) San Francisco's resurgence post-covid (32:11) The new ethos of tech and housing (37:59) The role of legacy institutions and succession (41:44) The importance of writing for intellectual growth (43:10) Encouraging young intellectuals (45:41) Conclusion and future discussions

    52 min

  4. SEP 19

    Civilizational Differences

    In today’s episode of Live Players, we’re featuring a discussion between Samo Burja, Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg about the inherent differences between civilizations and their impact on history and politics. They explore the parallels and distinctions between ancient civilizations like Babylon and modern entities like Silicon Valley, the influence of Abrahamic religions, and how societal patterns challenge our current understanding.  — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/  — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️History 102 with WhatifAltHist Every week, creator of WhatifAltHist Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg cover a major topic in history in depth -- in under an hour. This season will cover classical Greece, early America, the Vikings, medieval Islam, ancient China, the fall of the Roman Empire, and more. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj  🎙️This Won't Last Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-wont-last-with-keith-rabois-kevin-ryan-logan/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast 🎙️Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812  — SPONSOR: Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Whatifalthist YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/Whatifalthist  — FOLLOW ON X: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @whatifalthist @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:29) A deep dive into civilizational differences (03:11) The influence of Abrahamic religions (07:53) Classical vs. modern western civilization (12:21) The rise and fall of civilizations (16:59) Literacy and its impact on societies (20:30) Sponsor: Brave (26:20) Modern civilization and its roots (40:41) The future of religion and technology (52:21) Obscure civilizations and their impact (57:05) Wrap

    1h 2m

  5. SEP 11

    Globalization vs. Innovation

    This week on Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg debate the merit and harms of globalization. They explore the implications of Peter Thiel's views on globalization potentially hindering innovation, and analyze the historical context and current impacts of globalization on innovation, trade, and political stability. They also discuss the resilience and adaptability of different economic policies, the role of regional industries, and the influence of technological advancements on global power dynamics. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️This Won't Last Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-wont-last-with-keith-rabois-kevin-ryan-logan/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast 🎙️Complex Systems with Patrick McKenzie Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXOH  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812  — SPONSOR: Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — FOLLOW:  Samo Burja: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samo-burja Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamoBurja  Erik Torenberg: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriktorenberg/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg  — TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:28 The debate on globalization 02:21 Economic impacts of globalization 09:01 Historical context of global trade 16:26 Political implications of globalization 22:07 Future of globalization and political centralization 27:33 Sponsor: Brave 28:40 Potential scenarios for World War III 34:46 The rise of network states 44:42 Populism and immigration policies 49:46 Wrap

    55 min

  6. SEP 6

    AI's Impact on Geopolitics

    In this episode of Live Players, we’re releasing a conversation between Nathan Labenz of the Cognitive Revolution Podcast and Samo Burja on the strategic dynamics of artificial intelligence through a geopolitical lens. They discuss AI's trajectory, the chip supply chain, US-China relations, and the challenges of AI safety and militarization.  🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/  — RECOMMENDED PODCAST:  🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast — SPONSOR: Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: The Cognitive Revolution Website: https://www.cognitiverevolution.ai Bismarck Analysis: https://www.bismarckanalysis.com/  Subscribe to the Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/  — FOLLOW:  Nathan Labenz: Twitter (Podcast): https://twitter.com/cogrev_podcast  Twitter (Nathan): https://twitter.com/labenz  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanlabenz/  Samo Burja: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samo-burja Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamoBurja  — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:11) The evolution and Impact of AI (03:17) Scientific progress and AI (09:41) The role of AI scientists (11:57) Challenges in AI development (18:24) Sponsor: Brave (19:27) The economic impact of generative AI (23:49) The Cambrian Explosion of different definitions of intelligence (28:23) Strategic advice for national governments on AI (37:05) US-China economic competition (40:38) Other live players in the global AI landscape (41:34) The rise of Indian and European AI giants (44:51) The origins and implications of US-China AI Rivalry (46:57) The chip ban and its consequences (48:57) Strategies for US technological leadership (50:07) The role of ideological diversity in AI development (53:53) Avoiding the AI arms race (57:45) The future of AI: weaponization vs. peaceful applications (01:12:57) Open source and global coordination (01:13:56) Generative AI in personal workflows (01:17:33) Wrap

    1h 23m

  7. AUG 28

    Fraud in Academia with Ben Landau-Taylor

    In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja are joined by Ben Landau-Taylor, a Senior Analyst at Bismarck Analysis. Ben recently published an article in Palladium Magazine about the pervasive problem of fraud in academia. They discussed how fraudulent activities, particularly in medical research, often go undetected due to flawed peer review processes and institutional protectionism. They explore key cases, and possible solutions, including external watchdogs, intellectual authorities and regulatory bodies in maintaining academic integrity. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast — SPONSOR: Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. — LINKS: The Academic Culture of Fraud: https://www.palladiummag.com/2024/08/02/the-academic-culture-of-fraud/  Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/  Bismarck Analysis: https://www.bismarckanalysis.com/  — FOLLOW:  Ben Landau-Taylor: Website: https://www.benlandautaylor.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-landau-taylor-19a00056/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/benlandautaylor  Samo Burja: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samo-burja Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamoBurja  Erik Torrenberg: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriktorenberg/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg  — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:32) Ben’s article: "The Academic Culture of Fraud" in Palladium magazine (03:36) Examples of fraudulent studies and researchers (Sylvain Lesné case) (05:29) Incentives and cultural factors enabling fraud (07:35) Historical context and modern academia (10:46) Scientific fraud and its consequences (12:48) Intellectual authority and legitimacy (19:50) Sponsor: Brave (26:49) External pressure on academia (28:52) Role of journalism and other institutions in exposing academic fraud (31:24) The need for external oversight in academia (32:12) The complex relationship between the government and academia (34:13) Proposals for scientific integrity (39:56) Challenges in science and bureaucracy (43:21) Nonprofit solutions for scientific fraud (49:42) Venture capital and scientific integrity (54:02) Overview of Bismarck Analysis and its work in strategic research & consulting (56:54) Wrap

    1h 2m

  8. AUG 21

    Mass Immigration Won't Save Europe

    In this episode of Live Players, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja explore why mass immigration may not solve Europe's economic woes. They talk about cultural assimilation difficulties, political tensions, and potential long-term consequences for European societies. --- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co. --- RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ This Won't Last - Eavesdrop on Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg's monthly backchannel. They unpack their hottest takes on the future of tech, business, venture, investing, and politics. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast --- SPONSORS: 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/torenberg  Get first-party targeting with Brave's private ad platform: cookieless and future proof ad formats for all your business needs. Performance meets privacy. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. --- LINKS: Subscribe to Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction (00:39) Challenges of European Immigration (00:41) Historical Context and Current Events (01:26) Integration and Multiculturalism (06:54) Labor Markets and Economic Impact (21:44) Questioning Immigration as a Solution (27:12) Sponsor: Babbel | Brave (29:40) Proposed Solutions and Predictions (41:38) Final Thoughts and Next Steps (48:56) Conclusion

    52 min
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4.9
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About

See the world through the eyes of society's greatest rule-breakers. The "Live Players" podcast charts the key individuals shaping our future from first principles across multiple domains: business, politics, philanthropy, and broadcasting from the digital town square Join host Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg as they analyze the mindsets of today's most intriguing business leaders, investors, and innovators through the lens of their bold actions and contrarian worldviews. You'll come away with a deeper understanding of the development of technology, business, political power, culture and more. If you want more than soundbites and sensationalism, this podcast delivers reasoned reflections on the live players who renew and transform civilization, whether we ask them to or not. Topics frequently covered: Business titans, political players, and philanthropists like Elon Musk, Sam Altman, Peter Thiel, George Soros, Donald Trump, and more with the power to remake industries, policies, borders, or societal norms. Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co

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