In this episode of Moment of Zen, Balaji Srinivasan sits down with Erik Torenberg to discuss the massive vibe shift in Silicon Valley a week after Trump's near-assassination, tech's emerging role as a counter-elite force, why Biden is president NPC, January 6, and the role of the media.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network:  https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

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 [email protected].

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RECOMMENDED PODCAST: COMPLEX SYSTEMS WITH PATRICK MCKENZIE (PATIO11)

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

--

SPONSORS:

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

🌐 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

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz

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LINKS:

Librem 5 Phone: https://puri.sm/products/librem-5/

School of Fish Meme: https://x.com/balajis/status/1489288836349784064

Graph: History is Running in Reverse: https://x.com/balajis/status/1749858089665257497

FBI Lost Count of Number of Informants at Jan 6: https://nypost.com/2023/09/19/fbi-lost-count-of-number-of-informants-at-capitol-on-jan-6-ex-official/

Most important article: https://time.com/5936036/secret-2020-election-campaign/

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FOLLOW US ON X:

@balajis (Balaji)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@turpentinemedia (Turpentine)

---

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:21) The Vibe Shift in the Tech Industry

(02:54) The Tech Counter-Elite

(08:01) Tech's Influence on Politics

(14:32) Tech's Impact on the Republican Party

(20:40) The Democrat Party and the Tech Counter-Elite

(26:49) Sponsors: beehiiv | Babbel

(29:39) The Core Disagreement: Who Should Run Things?

(38:45) The Power Struggle Between the Elite and Counter-Elite

(38:49) Sponsors: CommandBar | Squad

(40:02) Political Parties as Swarms of Ideologies

(41:04) Ant Colonies and Swarm Intelligence

(45:47) The Strength and Weakness of the NPC Meme

(49:56) Adapting to a Changing World Order

(53:27) Contextualizing the January 6th Events

(1:12:41) The Media's Role in Shaping Public Opinion

(1:13:28) The Erosion of Democracy and the Rise of One-Party States

(1:18:25) The Economic Collapse and the Future of Tech

(1:26:48) The Potential for New Cities and Countries

(1:41:54) Wrap

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 military preparedness, and the potential consequences of a conflict over Taiwan. The episode also explores the broader implications of a potential U.S.-China industrial competition and the risks of a bipolar world.

-

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 [email protected].

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST: LIVE PLAYERS with SAMO BURJA

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST: COMPLEX SYSTEMS WITH PATRICK MCKENZIE (PATIO11)

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

—

SPONSORS:

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

🌐 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

---

REFERENCED ARTICLES:

“China Isn’t Pursuing Energy Independence” https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/china-isnt-pursuing-energy-independence

---

LINKS:

Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/

---

FOLLOW US ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@samoburja (Samo)

@turpentinemedia (Turpentine)

---

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:46) China's Domestic Oil Production

(03:00) Energy Independence and Geopolitical Strategy

(04:00) Comparing US and China Energy Policies

(05:13) China's Economic Logic Over Energy Security

(06:09) China's Relationship with Iran and Russia

(07:55) Modernizing China's Petrochemical Industry

(08:33) Advising China on Resource Independence

(16:13) Sponsors: beehiiv | Babbel

(18:58) China's Strategic Priorities and War Likelihood

(22:16) Western Brinksmanship and Misconceptions

(29:29) The Role of Manufacturing in Modern Warfare

(30:44) The Need for a Massive Industrial Base

(33:30) Sponsors: Squad

(34:54) China's Strategic Military Preparations

(36:57) China's Oil and Resource Capabilities

(40:11) The Taiwan Conflict: Economic and Military Implications

(52:47) The Future of Global Power Dynamics

This week, Noah Smith joins Erik Torenberg to 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 civil service through initiatives like Project 2025. Noah also debunks the deep state myth and discusses the real issues surrounding Biden's age, questioning the influence of "political handlers" and the reality of a "deep state."

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

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/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812

--

SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | BABBEL | SQUAD

🌐 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/zen

🐝 Head to beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. A special offer is at https://beehiiv.com: use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months.

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

--

FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@Noahpinion (Noah)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

--

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Preview

(01:09) 4th of July Celebrations and Mailbag Questions

(01:51) Debate Reflections: Trump vs. Biden

(02:35) Biden's Age and Democratic Dilemma

(03:09) Kamala Harris: The Successor Debate

(04:12) Michelle Obama: A Potential Candidate?

(07:06) The Deep State: Myth or Reality?

(11:30) Bernie Sanders and the DNC

(13:58) Chevron Ruling and Its Implications

(19:10) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel

(22:44) Project 2025 and Civil Service Polarization

(30:34) Reflecting on the Floyd Protests

(31:57) The Impact of Trump's Presidency

(35:05) Sponsors: Squad 

(36:29) Debating the Administrative State

(38:31) Challenges in the Education System

(46:56) Redistribution and Class in America

(53:37) The Future of UBI and Cash Benefits

(57:51) Wrap

In this episode of Moment of Zen, Erik, Antonio, as well as two friends of the podcast who prefer to stay anonymous, discuss the disastrous Biden/Trump debate and what could happen after. They explore the state of U.S. politics by scrutinizing Joe Biden's controversial debate performance and its implications on his presidency, as well as reactions from the media and its impact on U.S. foreign relations.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

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/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812

--

SPONSORS: COMMANDBAR | NETSUITE | BEEHIIV | BABBEL | SQUAD

🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz

🌐 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/zen

🐝 Head to beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. A special offer is at https://beehiiv.com: use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months.

📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks.

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

--

FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@agm.eth (Antonio)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

--

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Political Gaffes and the Current State of Politics

(01:23) Sponsor: CommandBar

(02:18) Biden's Performance and Cognitive Decline

(03:21) The Role of Media and Public Perception

(07:15) Biden's Decision-Making and Political Dynamics

(12:53) Potential Political Replacements and Speculations

(14:55) Sponsors: Babbel | beehiiv

(19:51) International Perspectives and Influence

(22:30) Trump vs. Biden: Public Perception and Debate Tactics

(27:43) Sponsors: NetSuite | Squad

(36:54) Debating Biden's Public Image

(37:48) Tech's Right-Wing Shift and Trump Endorsement

(38:51) Silicon Valley's Political Divide

(39:53) Crypto's Trump Support

(40:49) Changing Political Opinions in Tech

(45:30) Trump's Unpredictable Nature

(46:32) Biden's Aging and Potential Successors

(51:38) January 6th and Its Aftermath

(1:07:01) Trump's Second Term Concerns

(1:20:59) Wrap

In this episode of Moment of Zen, Erik interviews Richard Hanania about the evolving political landscape in the U.S., focusing on the changing dynamics within both the Republican and Democratic parties. They discuss the influence of big tech, the rise of Trumpism, political polarization, and the intellectual underpinnings of current political ideologies.

We’re publishing this conversation across Moment of Zen and Upstream since the themes are highly relevant to both shows.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

--

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

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/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812

--

SPONSORS: COMMANDBAR | NETSUITE | BEEHIIV | BABBEL | SQUAD

🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz

📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks.

🐝 Head to beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. A special offer is at https://beehiiv.com: use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

🌐 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/zen

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

--

FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@RichardHanania (Richard)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

--

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:11) Silicon Valley's Shift: Anti-Wokeness and Economic Concerns

(03:23) Political Evolution and Disillusionment with the Right

(04:18) Conservatism, Technology, and Cultural Grievances

(08:56) Human Capital and the Right's IQ Problem

(13:53) Sponsor: CommandBar | Netsuite

(16:22) Religion, Fertility, and Societal Coordination

(19:10) The Return Philosophy and Women's Happiness

(21:17) Trump's Political Genius and Threat to Democracy

(26:01) Sponsor: beehiiv | Babbel | Squad

(29:59) Biden vs. Trump: Election Predictions and Policy Impacts

(38:34) Debunking Antisemitism Claims in Protests

(39:28) Political Strategy and Victimhood

(40:55) Historical Context of Antisemitism

(42:11) Comparing Minority Experiences

(42:56) Demonization and Conspiracy Theories

(45:14) Evaluating Political Motivations

(47:12) The Role of Intellectuals and Media

(52:03) Immigration and National Identity

(59:47) Future of American Politics

(1:02:40) On Open Borders

(1:04:51) IQ vs Common Sense

(1:07:42) The Future of the Left and Right

(1:13:56) Wrap

Today on Moment of Zen, Journalist Pascal-Emmanuel Gobry sits with Erik Torenberg to explain the volatile state of French politics following recent European Parliament elections where Macron’s party performed poorly and the National Rally did very well. The conversation offers insights into the broader implications of these political shifts, touches on the societal divisions fueling these changes, immigration, and the potential economic impact on France.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

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/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812

--

SPONSORS: COMMANDBAR | BABBEL | BEEHIIV | NETSUITE | SQUAD

🦾 Level up your ineffective website chatbot with CommandBar. CommandBar builds a new type of web assistant which delivers highly personalized responses, real time co-browsing, and can perform actions on behalf of the users. Learn how Hashicorp, Gusto, Freshworks and more use CommandBar at https://commandbar.com/moz

🌐 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/zen

🐝 Head to beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. A special offer is at https://beehiiv.com: use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks.

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

--

FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@pegobry_en (Pascal)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

--

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:35) Sponsor: CommandBar

(04:20) Macron's Strategy & Cohabitation

(08:11) The Political Landscape

(14:28) Comparison with U.S. Politics

(14:48) Sponsor: Babbel | beehiiv

(16:22) Macron's Unpopularity & Economic Challenges

(21:02) Energy Policy and the Rise of Populism

(24:01) Sponsor: Netsuite | Squad

(27:94) The Economic Consequences of Populism

(31:11) France vs. Brexit

(35:46) The Future of France

(45:00) Brexit Comparison & EU Reform

(52:57) The Role of Young People in the Future

(54:34) Wrap

In this episode that originally aired on Upstream, Erik sits down with Balaji Srinivasan to discuss the Fiat Crisis, geopolitics, conspiracies, and the signs of decline for a hyperpower. It was recorded in June of 2023. Balaji is an angel investor, tech founder, philosopher, and author of The Network State. He was formerly the CTO of Coinbase.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

RECOMMENDED PODCAST:

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/id1753399812https://podcasts.apple.com/id1753399812

-

SPONSORS: NETSUITE | BEEHIIV | SQUAD

NETSUITE

📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks.

BEEHIIV

🐝 Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. Go to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

BABBEL

🌐 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/zen

SQUAD

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

-

FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@balajis (Balaji)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Episode Preview

(00:51) Intro

(01:23) Understanding the flat crisis

(08:34) Balaji’s equivalent premises

(14:54) Sponsor: NetSuite and Beehiiv

(17:55) Aftermath of Iraq and Afghanistan wars

(20:35) Multipolar world

(25:17) Blue America is at war with the world

(28:35) Sponsor: Babbel | Squad

(31:02) Cancellation is a weak form of warfare

(33:05) Interplay of realism and idealism in the U.S

(37:00) Red vs Blue vs Grey America

(44:11) Concept of American partition

(46:00) Rise of India's national Identity

(47:00) Evolution of China and Russia

(53:00) Microsoft, Facebook, and Google

(54:00) Japan-USSR rivalry and its impact

(01:01:10) Conspiracy theories and historical narratives

(01:09:00) Balaji’s predictions for 2024 & the Fed

(01:18:31) Wrap

David Sacks is known as a CEO/investor in multiple unicorns, and most recently a media mogul with All-In. In this episode, he sits down with Erik Torenberg to trace his intellectual and political history from his days fighting student activism at Stanford to now. We cover the political and cultural changes in the last 30 years of silicon valley, how the real distinction today is between the college-educated and the not, and how even though 2⁄3 of the country didn’t go to college, their views are not represented in our institutions today. This episode was recorded in December 2022 but is just as relevant today. 

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

–

SPONSORS: NETSUITE | BEEHIIV | SQUAD

NETSUITE

📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks.

BEEHIIV

🐝 Power your newsletter with Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

SQUAD

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@davidsacks

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

LINKS:

Craft Ventures: https://craftventures.com/

All-In Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@allin

Glue.ai: https://glue.ai/

SaaS Grid : https://www.saasgrid.com/

–

FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@DavidSacks (David)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(02:11) How did tech become less free speech-oriented?

(03:35) Why is PayPal so woke?

(06:02) Woke Capitalism game

(08:52) Corporations and governments collaborating to censor

(16:22) Tracing political history in Silicon Valley 

(20:54) College educated vs. not is the biggest difference in US

Our elite is not democratic

(22:54) Sponsor: NetSuite | Beehiiv

(29:15) Foreign Policy and Realism

(32:28) U.S. Russiaphobia

(36:30) Sponsor: Squad

(38:05) Big Tech Monopolies and Regulation

(41:42) The Future of Silicon Valley and Monopolies

(42:32) Regulating Acquisitions and Startup Ecosystems

(45:39) Censorship and Section 230

(47:17) The Role of Free Speech in Social Progress

(53:52) Institutional Reform and Accountability

(54:56) Elon Musk's Influence on Tech and Media

(1:06:33) The Future of Political and Economic Accountability

(1:19:30) Wrap

Today we are airing Erik's interview with Joe Lonsdale, originally published on Upstream in 2023. Joe Lonsdale is the co-founder of Palantir, managing partner at 8VC, and the founder of The Cicero Institute, a nonpartisan policy organization discusses the root causes of educational inequality and homelessness, and argues for competence over culture wars, data-driven solutions, and market incentives to fix some of the US' most plaguing problems. Grow your newsletter with 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/to/JCkphVqj

–

SPONSORS: NETSUITE | BEEHIIV | SQUAD

NETSUITE

📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks.

BEEHIIV

🐝 Power your newsletter with Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

SQUAD

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

–

LINKS:

Cicero Institute: https://ciceroinstitute.org/

8VC: https://www.8vc.com/

Palantir: https://www.palantir.com/

Joe Lonsdale's blog: https://blog.joelonsdale.com

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FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@JTLonsdale (Joe)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:47) Philanthropy and Impact: Joe's Approach to Social Change

(01:18) Nonpartisan Solutions for Broken Systems

(02:55) Cicero Institute's Mission and Impact Across States

(07:42) Addressing Education Inequality and Accountability

(12:32) Reforming Prisons and Probation with Data and Accountability

(16:12) Tackling Homelessness with Common Sense and Accountability

(18:53) Sponsor: Netsuite | Beehiiv

(21:16) Introducing Market Incentives, Market Competition, and Market Accountability

(25:06) Sponsor: Squad

(26:34) Innovative Approaches to Healthcare

(31:12) Rethinking Healthcare and Leadership

(31:32) Innovating Within vs. Outside the System

(32:13) The Challenge of Reforming Institutions

(33:41) Navigating the Complexities of Defense and Innovation

(37:36) The Power of State-Level Impact and Education Reform

(39:29) Silicon Valley's Influence and Responsibility

(40:32) Cultural Shifts and the Role of New Institutions

(55:27) The Future of American Competence and Optimism

(57:42) Wrap

In this episode, Carlos Pereira, partner at BITKRAFT Ventures, joins Erik, Antonio and Dan as they delve into the significant transformations within gaming, betting, and combat sports, facilitated by cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, emphasizing the groundbreaking integration of cryptocurrency through Web3 gaming.

🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj

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SPONSORS: NETSUITE | BEEHIIV | SQUAD

NETSUITE

📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks.

BEEHIIV

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

SQUAD

💥 Head to Squad to access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to https://choosesquad.com/ and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist.

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LINKS:

Bitkraft VC:

https://www.bitkraft.vc/

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FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@cegapereira (Carlos)

@dwr (Dan)

@antoniogm (Antonio)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

–

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Opening Banter

(01:28) Diving Into Crypto and Gaming Discussions

(02:11) The Evolution and Challenges of Web3 Gaming

(04:44) Analyzing the Crypto Gaming Landscape

(13:48) The Future of Gaming: Web3 and Beyond

(17:23) Sponsor: Netsuite | Beehiiv

(18:29) Deep Dive into Web3 Gaming and Digital Economies

(32:38) Exploring User-Generated Content and Game Modding

(34:14) Sponsor: Squad

(42:19) Investment Perspectives on Gaming and Infrastructure

(45:47) The Fascinating World of Gaming Business

(49:49) The Evolution of Gaming: From PVE to PVP

(51:40) The Intriguing Dynamics of Safe Zones in Games

(53:29) The Rise of Financialized Gaming Experiences

(1:06:31) Karate Combat: A New Era of Crypto-Infused Sports

(1:17:15) The Future of Media and Crypto's Role

(1:23:13) Wrap

In this episode of Moment of Zen, Erik is joined by Jonathan Haidt, social psychologist at New York University’s Stern School of Business and author of the newly released book "The Anxious Generation."

They have a comprehensive discussion that touches on the polarization and dysfunction in American politics, the impact of social media on democracy, and the importance of reclaiming a play-based childhood for the current generation

-

SPONSORS: NETSUITE | BEEHIIV

NETSUITE

📈 NetSuite has 25 years of providing financial software for all your business needs. More than 36,000 businesses have already upgraded to NetSuite by Oracle, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform head to NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/zen - NetSuite has extended a one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks.

BEEHIIV

Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 https://Beehiiv.com and use code "MOZ" for 20% off your first three months

-

LINKS:

Website: https://jonathanhaidt.com/

Jon's Substack: https://www.afterbabel.com/p/welcome-to-the-after-babel-substack

The Anxious Generation: https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/

The Anxious Generation Book: https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/book

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FOLLOW ON X:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@JonHaidt (Jon)

@moz_podcast (Moment of Zen)

@TurpentineMedia

-

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:13) Evolution of Jonathan's Work: From Moral Psychology to 'The Anxious Generation'

(01:14) The Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental Health

(02:50) Exploring the Tragedy of the Modern Childhood

(07:29) Addressing the Criticism and Pushback

(12:08) The Unprecedented Effects of Social Media on Society

(19:37) Adapting to Technological Changes and the Future of Childhood

(20:20) The Dire State of Democracy in the Digital Age

(27:01) How Technology Affects Liberals and Conservatives Differently

(28:20) Unveiling the Research: The Rise of Anxiety and Depression

(28:48) Breaking Down the Data: Gender, Politics, and Mental Health

(30:48) The Protective Power of Religion and Community

(31:32) Parenting Styles and Moral Values

(32:07) Challenges for Progressive Organizations and the Democratic Party

(32:42) Recommendations for a Healthier Childhood in the Digital Age

(33:50) Addressing the Broader Issues Beyond Smartphones

(34:35) The Role of Schools in Children's Mental Health

(36:33) A Call for Intentional Community Building

(37:34) Navigating the Public Health Crisis with Apolitical Solutions

(40:41) Engaging with the Tech Industry: Critiques and Clarifications

(41:01) The Debate on Content Moderation and the Need for Structural Changes

(56:27) Wrap