E118: Ending Woke, Why Elon Wins, and A Return to Innovation w/ Marc Andreessen [Moment of Zen repost]

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

Player FM - Internet Radio Done Right

25 subscribers

הוסף לפני two שנים

תוכן מסופק על ידי Erik Torenberg. כל תוכן הפודקאסטים כולל פרקים, גרפיקה ותיאורי פודקאסטים מועלים ומסופקים ישירות על ידי Erik Torenberg או שותף פלטפורמת הפודקאסט שלהם. אם אתה מאמין שמישהו משתמש ביצירה שלך המוגנת בזכויות יוצרים ללא רשותך, אתה יכול לעקוב אחר התהליך המתואר כאן https://he.player.fm/legal.

Fixable

1
How to get your confidence back 41:05

לפני 19 weeks41:05

הפעל מאוחר יותר

רשימות

לייק

אהבתי

41:05

When negative feedback shakes your confidence, it can be difficult to get back to feeling like yourself at work. In this episode, Anne and Frances help a struggling listener who has spent years toning herself down in the workplace after being told that she was too assertive — now, she feels that her modest approach is holding her back. Together, they use Anne and Frances’s “trust triangle” framework to explore how empathy, authenticity, and logic can help you rebuild confidence and trust with your colleagues, and share helpful confidence hacks for getting comfy with discomfort. What problems are you dealing with at work? Text or call 234-FIXABLE or email fixable@ted.com to be featured on the show. For the full text transcript, visit ted.com/podcasts/fixable-transcripts Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

לפני שנה 1:45:40

MP3•בית הפרקים

—

📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess

🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse

—

RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:

🎙️Moment of Zen

Every week, Erik Torenberg, Dan Romero, Antonio Garcia Martinez and frequent special guests discuss what's happening in technology, business, politics, and beyond.

Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15KYOzvDzAQvqX0z0SpHEJ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moment-of-zen/id1661672738

🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov.

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod

—

SPONSORS:

☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine

🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world.

🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream

💥 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:

"Private Truth, Public Lies" by Timur Kuran: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674707580

"The Power of the Powerless" by Václav Havel: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Powerless-Vaclav-Havel/dp/178487504X

"Why are Jews Liberal" by Norman Podhoretz: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Jews-Liberals-Norman-Podhoretz/dp/0307456250

"Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand: https://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Shrugged-Ayn-Rand/dp/0451191145

Pew Research Survey: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/03/15/americans-feel-more-positive-than-negative-about-jews-mainline-protestants-catholics/

—

X / TWITTER:

@pmarca

@eriktorenberg

@turpentinemedia

—

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE:

Commerce Secretary now advocates for out-innovating China, marking a complete reversal.
"Preference falsification" in American society is starting to unwind.
The 2014 Mozilla CEO cancellation became a template for future tech industry purges.
"Woke" ideology is declining culturally but remains embedded in institutions.
Private messaging groups became modern samizdat for honest communication.
Cultural shifts start in San Francisco and spread outward with predictable delays.
October 7th caused major Jewish American political realignment.
Evangelical Christians show strong support for Jews despite opposite sentiment in return.
New administration appointments show exceptional quality compared to historical standards.
Government blocked innovation in physical things, then tried to restrict digital innovation.
European regulations are forcing global tech compliance.
New administration combines experienced staffers with high-caliber outsiders.

144 פרקים

#Tech #News #Tech News #Erik Torenberg

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

E118: Ending Woke, Why Elon Wins, and A Return to Innovation w/ Marc Andreessen [Moment of Zen repost]

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

25 subscribers

published לפני שנה

שתפו

MP3•בית הפרקים

—

📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess

🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse

—

RECOMMENDED PODCASTS:

🎙️Moment of Zen

Every week, Erik Torenberg, Dan Romero, Antonio Garcia Martinez and frequent special guests discuss what's happening in technology, business, politics, and beyond.

Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15KYOzvDzAQvqX0z0SpHEJ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moment-of-zen/id1661672738

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod

—

SPONSORS:

🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream

💥 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:

"Private Truth, Public Lies" by Timur Kuran: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674707580

"The Power of the Powerless" by Václav Havel: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Powerless-Vaclav-Havel/dp/178487504X

"Why are Jews Liberal" by Norman Podhoretz: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Jews-Liberals-Norman-Podhoretz/dp/0307456250

"Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand: https://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Shrugged-Ayn-Rand/dp/0451191145

Pew Research Survey: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/03/15/americans-feel-more-positive-than-negative-about-jews-mainline-protestants-catholics/

—

X / TWITTER:

@pmarca

@eriktorenberg

@turpentinemedia

—

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE:

Commerce Secretary now advocates for out-innovating China, marking a complete reversal.
"Preference falsification" in American society is starting to unwind.
The 2014 Mozilla CEO cancellation became a template for future tech industry purges.
"Woke" ideology is declining culturally but remains embedded in institutions.
Private messaging groups became modern samizdat for honest communication.
Cultural shifts start in San Francisco and spread outward with predictable delays.
October 7th caused major Jewish American political realignment.
Evangelical Christians show strong support for Jews despite opposite sentiment in return.
New administration appointments show exceptional quality compared to historical standards.
Government blocked innovation in physical things, then tried to restrict digital innovation.
European regulations are forcing global tech compliance.
New administration combines experienced staffers with high-caliber outsiders.

144 פרקים

#Tech #News #Tech News #Erik Torenberg

כל הפרקים

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E141: The Bronze Age Collapse and History's Selective Memory 1:03:08

לפני 5 weeks1:03:08

1:03:08

Today on Upstream, we’re sharing Erik Torenberg conversation with Samo Burja where they discuss the Bronze Age collapse, technological advancements in ancient civilizations, and the nuanced history of the Roman Empire, along with a detailed analysis of contemporary geopolitical dynamics, particularly focusing on the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and its implications for global power structures. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 💥 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: Bismarck Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: The Bronze Age collapse demonstrates that advanced civilizations can experience technological backsliding, countering the idea that knowledge only accumulates. Despite technological advancement in some areas like Greek fire in the Byzantine Empire, the Bronze Age collapse shows entire civilizations and technologies can be lost. The Bronze Age collapse (around 1000 BC) is documented in both written sources (Hittite tablets) and archaeological evidence showing destruction layers across multiple regions. The Hittite Empire, once a major power rivaling Egypt, was completely forgotten until its rediscovery in the 19th century. During this collapse, entire civilizations vanished, metalworking was lost in some places, and Greece lost literacy for about 400 years. Even decentralized systems can be fragile, as demonstrated by how trade route disruptions led to bronze scarcity and eventual societal collapse. From 1991 to 2014, the world lived under US hegemony before Russia began expanding again with the annexation of Crimea. Samo predicts giant nations like the US and China will have strong interests but won't necessarily impose their systems on smaller countries. Europe's decline could be reversed if it adopted a more federal and flexible system similar to the Swiss Confederacy. Eastern European countries like Estonia, Poland, and Hungary present interesting possibilities for governance experiments. Regarding Russia-Ukraine, Samo predicts Russia will ultimately gain territory while Ukraine loses it, with Western support for Ukraine likely to weaken over time. On historical narratives, Samo suggests prehistory was much more violent than often portrayed by anthropologists in recent decades. Samo challenges academic narratives about colonization, arguing Spanish rule was an improvement over Aztec human sacrifice practices. North America likely had multiple rises and falls of civilization that remain undiscovered partly due to political motivations in archaeology.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E140: Why Industrial Revolutions Stall 45:59

לפני 5 weeks45:59

45:59

Today on Upstream, we’re sharing Erik Torenberg conversation with Samo Burja on this week’s Live Players. They discuss the potential industrial revolutions in history, particularly in the Roman Empire and Song Dynasty China, their technological advancements, economic factors, and the reasons these revolutions didn't reach full fruition. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 💥 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: Las Medulas in Spain: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/803/ Monte Testaccio in Rome: https://www.historyskills.com/classroom/ancient-history/monte-testaccio/?srsltid=AfmBOoonzF0CVGKjzUFs46kkI9fZ-FVcBTDOMAVs8vtFcxH4iKcNx09f Bismarck Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: The podcast explores "failed industrial revolutions" not widely recognized in history. Human economic progress isn't constant but cycles between prosperity and decline. The Roman Empire had its own industrial revolution unlike our modern conception. Water power was extensively used by Romans for milling, metalwork, and stone cutting. Romans built complex waterwheel systems and engineering works for power generation. Heron of Alexandria demonstrated steam power principles in experimental devices. Roman metal production was so vast it left pollution signatures in Greenland ice cores. Monte Testaccio in Rome indicates industrial-scale production of millions of amphoras. Romans mass-produced standardized pottery, glassware, statues, and military equipment. A sophisticated Roman consumer economy existed with a significant middle class. This era remains underappreciated partly due to concerns about interrupted progress. Hollywood misrepresents the era, omitting the "steampunk" mechanical sophistication. Cities like Alexandria were major production centers with extensive trade networks. Romans might have adopted steam power had they needed to mine more coal. Song Dynasty China represents another technologically advanced society that fell. Large-scale water shipping appears crucial for all historical industrialization. Industrial revolutions plateau when non-technological growth fails to keep pace. The Hellenistic era, especially Alexandria, is described as modern science's birthplace.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E139: America’s Tech Strategy w/ Qasar Younis, Sen. Jack Reed, and Josh Wolfe 29:38

לפני 6 weeks29:38

29:38

This week, we’re featuring a panel discussion from the 2025 Hill and Valley Forum with Josh Wolfe (Lux Capital), Senator Jack Reed (RI), and Qasar Younis, Founder and CEO, Applied Intuition They address talent attraction and retention, China's espionage and surveillance state, immigration policies, dual-use technologies, and the challenges and strategies in defense innovation and data security in AI and autonomous vehicles. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️The Hill & Valley The Hill & Valley podcast gives you an insider's look into tech and government, hearing from founders and operators of generational tech companies, elected representatives and policymakers, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39s4MCyt1pOTQ8FjOAS4mi Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hill-valley/id1692653857 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HillValleyForum — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 💥 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: The Hill & Valley Forum: https://www.thehillandvalleyforum.com/ The Hill & Valley Forum 2025 Agenda: https://x.com/zebulgar/status/1915128911274668364 — X / TWITTER: @SenJackReed @qasar @wolfejosh @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Josh Wolfe interviews Qasar Younis (CEO of Applied Intuition) and Senator Jack Reed about dual-use technologies. Applied Intuition provides AI technology to moving machines with 18 of the top 20 global automakers using their systems. The company works in both commercial and defense sectors. Senator Reed notes adversaries like China can acquire equipment and repurpose it in novel ways. Qasar emphasizes building competitive products while remaining vigilant about adversaries who don't play by the same rules. Key policy levers include resources, human capital, academic partnerships, and faster deployment of innovations. Chinese espionage is a concern, but policies should address adversaries without discouraging overall immigration of talent. Qasar describes China's intense surveillance state that monitors all payments, movements, and activities. Senator Reed expresses concern about data accumulation without sufficient guardrails. Qasar argues for a middle ground between China's surveillance state and Europe's restrictive GDPR regulations. After visiting China, Qasar observed fewer foreigners than before and believes companies are leaving due to overwhelming surveillance. Qasar predicts in AI, like in mobile technology, value will be captured primarily by large players, both companies and countries. Autonomy is where "AI meets the warfighter" and the US is still lagging in adopting this technology. Increasing bureaucracy won't help the US compete; instead, having senior officials with AI experience will improve implementation.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E138: Palantir CEO Alex Karp & Rep. Ritchie Torres on Innovation & The West | Hill and Valley Forum 2024 30:28

לפני 7 weeks30:28

30:28

Alex Karp, CEO of Palantir Technologies, and Congressman Richie Torres discuss higher education, Palantir's fearless culture, and the importance of contrarianism in driving innovation at the 2024 Hill and Valley Forum. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️The Hill & Valley The Hill & Valley podcast gives you an insider's look into tech and government, hearing from founders and operators of generational tech companies, elected representatives and policymakers, and more. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39s4MCyt1pOTQ8FjOAS4mi Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hill-valley/id1692653857 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HillValleyForum — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: The Hill & Valley Forum: https://www.thehillandvalleyforum.com/ The Hill & Valley Forum 2025 Agenda: https://x.com/zebulgar/status/1915128911274668364 — X / TWITTER: @RitchieTorres @RepRitchie @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Alex Karp and Congressman Richie Torres discuss higher education, Palantir's culture, and contrarianism at the 2024 Hill and Valley Forum. Torres praises Karp for his fearlessness and moral clarity in a world of fear and moral confusion. Karp attributes his outspokenness to a desire for cultural clarity, which he believes is essential for building disruptive products and attracting top talent. Karp criticizes elite educational institutions for fostering dysfunction and antisemitism, viewing it as a betrayal of progressive values. He describes the crisis in higher education as a return to a "pagan religion" that contradicts the principles of liberalism and cognitive clarity. Karp emphasizes the importance of "non-playbook players" in the U.S., individuals who innovate without a set guide, a rare asset driving technological disruption. He acknowledges tensions between Capitol Hill and Silicon Valley but believes their relationship is structurally better than in most countries. Karp expresses confidence in the U.S. government's ability to adapt to rapid technological change, though it must improve procurement and focus on meritocracy. He highlights the U.S.'s unique advantage in producing innovative tech companies, citing meritocracy, top immigrants, and elite schools as key factors. In the U.S.-China tech arms race, Karp believes the U.S. is ahead but risks falling behind if elite institutions remain dysfunctional. He addresses fears about generative AI, advocating for embracing it as critical for GDP growth and competitive advantage, while acknowledging the need for regulation. Karp sees Palantir’s success as a model for creating a fairer, more equitable world and predicts the company will grow significantly in the next 20 years.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E137: AI Safety vs Speed: Helen Toner Discusses OpenAI Board Experience, Regulatory Approaches, and Military AI [The Cognitive Revolution] 1:20:01

לפני 8 weeks1:20:01

1:20:01

This week on Upstream, we’re releasing an episode of The Cognitive Revolution. Nathan Labenz interviews Helen Toner, director at CSET, about her experiences with OpenAI, the concept of adaptation buffers for AI integration, and AI's role in military decision-making. They discuss the implications of AI development, the need for regulatory policies, and the geopolitical dynamics involving AI competition with China. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ The Cognitive Revolution The Cognitive Revolution is a podcast about AI where hosts Nathan Labenz and Erik Torenberg interview the builders on the edge of AI and explore the dramatic shift it will unlock over the next decades. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6yHyok3M3BjqzR0VB5MSyk?si=7357ec31ac424043&nd=1&dlsi=060a53f1d7be47ad Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cognitive-revolution-ai-builders-researchers-and/id1669813431 — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Helen Toner's appearance on the TED AI show: https://www.ted.com/talks/the_ted_ai_show_what_really_went_down_at_openai_and_the_future_of_regulation_w_helen_toner Helen Toner's substack : https://helentoner.substack.com/ Additional recommended reads: https://helentoner.substack.com/p/nonproliferation-is-the-wrong-approach https://cset.georgetown.edu/publication/ai-for-military-decision-making/ https://www.lawfaremedia.org/article/ai-regulation-s-champions-can-seize-common-ground-or-be-swept-aside https://www.economist.com/by-invitation/2024/05/26/ai-firms-mustnt-govern-themselves-say-ex-members-of-openais-board — X / TWITTER: @hlntnr @labenz @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Helen Toner joined OpenAI's board in 2021, bringing AI policy expertise when AGI discussions were still uncommon. She confirms that rumors about QStar contributing to the board's decision to fire Sam Altman were completely false. Helen observes contradictions at OpenAI: safety-focused research papers alongside aggressive policy positions. For AI whistleblowers, she recommends clear disclosure standards rather than vague reporting guidelines. Helen introduced the concept of "adaptation buffers," noting that while frontier AI development gets more expensive, capabilities become cheaper to replicate once achieved. Rather than focusing on non-proliferation, Helen advocates using adaptation time to build societal resilience (like improving outbreak detection). She favors conditional slowdowns (based on risk mitigation) rather than arbitrary pauses or compute limits. For military AI applications, Helen's research identifies three key considerations: scope (how tightly bound the system is), data quality, and human-machine interaction design. Helen expresses skepticism about "AI war simulations," arguing military contexts have too many unknowns to be modeled like games. She suggests the shift in AI CEOs' rhetoric about China competition is "the path of least resistance" to argue against regulation. Helen acknowledges the difficulty of reaching stable international equilibrium around AI development with too many unknowns about what superintelligence would mean for political systems.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E136: Trump V2: Tariffs, American Dynamism, Higher Ed | Byrne Hobart 1:02:03

לפני 8 weeks1:02:03

1:02:03

In this episode, Erik Torenberg and Byrne Hobart discuss the economic consequences of Trump's tariffs, OpenAI's recent innovations, and their implications for white collar work. They also explore the potential market shifts, the resilience of the US dollar as a reserve currency, and the state of elite higher education institutions like Harvard in the current geopolitical climate. — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiffPodcast — SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co — X / TWITTER: @byrnehobart @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Trump's tariff decision was spontaneous, causing market volatility and creating an incentive for China to negatively influence U.S. markets. Tariffs are inherently inflationary, functioning as a tax that results in higher consumer prices. Moving manufacturing away from China creates inefficiencies but provides strategic security by reducing dependency. The U.S. should focus on strategic manufacturing in areas like drones and rare earth processing. China has demographic disadvantages ("getting old before getting rich") that weaken its long-term position. OpenAI's memory feature creates user lock-in by personalizing responses based on user history. White-collar workers may face employment disruption similar to what blue-collar workers experienced with automation. The U.S. dollar's reserve currency status has a self-healing characteristic - crises often lead to increased dollar demand rather than abandonment.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E135: The Problem With Reserve Currencies and Switching to Crypto w/ Lyn Alden [From the Archives] 57:45

לפני 9 weeks57:45

57:45

This week on Upstream, we’re sharing Erik Torenberg’s 2024 interview with Lyn Alden. Lyn discusses her book 'Broken Money', the impact of the global reserve currency, inflation, interest rates, and provides advice for navigating an uncertain economic future. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Broken Money: https://www.amazon.com/Broken-Money-Financial-System-Failing/dp/B0CG8985FR Lyn’s website: https://www.lynalden.com/ — X / TWITTER: @LynAldenContact @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Lyn explains her book "Broken Money" provides a comprehensive global view of the 160 different currencies and monetary systems worldwide. She argues all monetary systems are essentially "ledger money" rather than just commodity or credit money. Lyn emphasizes how technology permanently shapes monetary systems, a perspective underexplored in academia. The telegraph was a crucial turning point, allowing information to move at the speed of light and shifting power toward centralized banks. Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies enable peer-to-peer value transfer without centralized institutions. Crypto continues to challenge currency monopolies by letting people circumvent capital controls and save in alternatives to local currencies. The US dollar's reserve status creates structural trade deficits and contributes to deindustrialization. Reshoring manufacturing remains difficult while maintaining reserve currency status. Raising interest rates to combat inflation has become less effective as higher rates increase government interest expenses. With high debt-to-GDP ratios, fiscal deficits drive money supply growth more than bank lending. Future inflation depends on technological growth rates relative to money supply growth. Lyn advises owning real, scarce assets rather than treasury bonds. She warns that fighting technological disruption ultimately proves ineffective for governments.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E134: Atheism’s Decline, Consciousness, and The New Right w/ Ross Douthat 57:08

לפני 9 weeks57:08

57:08

Today on Upstream, Ross Douthat joins Erik Torenberg to discuss his new book 'Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious,' exploring the decline of new atheism, the intellectual defense of institutional religion, and the intersection between traditional Christianity, Silicon Valley, and modern materialism. This episode originally aired on Moment of Zen (April 12, 2025). — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Moment of Zen Every week, Erik Torenberg, Dan Romero, Antonio Garcia Martinez and frequent special guests discuss what's happening in technology, business, politics, and beyond. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15KYOzvDzAQvqX0z0SpHEJ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moment-of-zen/id1661672738 — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Ross Douthat: https://www.nytimes.com/column/ross-douthat Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious: https://www.zondervan.com/p/believe/ — X / TWITTER: @DouthatNYT @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Ross explains we're at a cultural inflection point where secularization has plateaued and there's evidence of religious revival. New atheism has declined as the world hasn't become more reasonable despite becoming less religious. Ross argues religion is intellectually defensible based on fine-tuning of the universe and the hard problem of consciousness. He contends that merely appreciating religion's social benefits isn't enough—genuine belief is necessary. The AI discussion explores whether consciousness might exist beyond materialist explanations. They examine tensions in the "New Right" between tech-optimists and religious traditionalists.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E133: China’s Energy Problem w/ Samo Burja 57:09

לפני 9 weeks57:09

57:09

Today on Upstream, we’re releasing a 2024 conversation between Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja. They discuss China's approach to energy security, exploring why China isn't pursuing energy independence despite significant oil production capability and the potential for further development. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ China Isn’t Pursuing Energy Independence: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/china-isnt-pursuing-energy-independence — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E132: AI Managers, US vs China Analysis, and AI Art w/ Byrne Hobart 51:38

לפני 10 weeks51:38

51:38

Today on Upstream, we’re sharing an episode of The Riff (originally aired on April 1, 2025). Erik Torenberg and Byrne Hobart explore the shifting dynamics of global trade between China and the US, the potential for AI to replace senior rather than junior roles in the workplace, and the economic structure of live entertainment markets like StubHub. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiffPodcast — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co — X / TWITTER: @byrnehobart @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: US-China Trade Relations: There's an interesting role reversal where China is now championing free trade while the US has become more protectionist. China's Economic Challenges: Demographics are a crucial factor affecting China's economy - an aging population creates financial imbalances. AI's Impact on Work Hierarchy: Contrary to common assumptions, AI might replace senior rather than junior roles. While AI isn't a perfect substitute for mentorship, it provides "synthetic wisdom" without requiring equity stakes. StubHub and Pricing Dynamics: Entertainment businesses operate as "stacks of monopolies" (artists, venues) monetizing layers of perfect competition. AI-Generated Art ("Ghibli-fication"): The massive popularity of Studio Ghibli-style AI image generation demonstrated unexpected demand for AI services.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E131: Abundance Agenda, The New Right, and 2008 Retrospective w/ Noah Smith 1:08:17

לפני 11 weeks1:08:17

1:08:17

Today on Upstream, Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith discuss the Abundance Agenda by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, the impact of the 2008 recession, Obama's presidency, and shifts in political ideology, focusing on the 'New Right' and its cultural and economic implications, while also touching upon the economic recovery strategies post-2008. This episode originally aired on Econ102 (April 1, 2025) — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Econ102 with Noah Smith Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1696419056 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6q7Gn5lP8TTtBPuV1NJSGs Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ECON102Podcast — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Noahpinion: https://www.noahpinion.blog/ Abundance (by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson): https://www.amazon.com/Abundance-Progress-Takes-Ezra-Klein/dp/1668023482 The Clash of Civilizations (by Samuel Huntington): https://www.amazon.com/Clash-Civilizations-Remaking-World-Order/dp/1451628978 Revolt of the Public (by Martin Gurri): https://www.amazon.com/Revolt-Public-Crisis-Authority-Millennium/dp/1732265143 Understanding America's New Right: https://www.noahpinion.blog/p/understanding-americas-new-right American Factory: https://www.netflix.com/title/81090071 — X / TWITTER: @Noahpinion @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: The "abundance agenda" is gaining unexpected traction among Democrats who see it as a unifying message rather than class warfare. Noah views the abundance agenda as appealing because it promises prosperity for all Americans regardless of political beliefs. Noah considers Obama underrated, highlighting his stimulus package, Dodd-Frank regulations, Iraq War withdrawal, and Obamacare. Obama's immigration policy focused on deporting criminal elements, reducing the illegal immigrant population by about a million. The 2008 financial crisis was a "liquidity preference shock" where fear caused everyone to hold cash rather than spend. During demand-side crises, the government acts as "spender of last resort" to jumpstart economic activity. Infrastructure spending during the Obama era wasn't efficient, creating problems for future building initiatives. Post-2008 policies increased US debt from 60% to 100% of GDP during Obama's administration. Higher inflation under Biden has actually decreased the debt-to-GDP ratio despite increased spending. The "new right" ideology focuses on "Western civilization" - not racial nationalism but reverence for traditional European/Christian heritage. New right politicians like JD Vance care more about "meme wars" and online status than practical policy solutions. Social media has empowered a small percentage of politically active "shouting class" with outsized influence.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E130: Elon Musk’s Network Effects and Checking in on Chinese AI w/ Byrne Hobart 59:31

לפני 11 weeks59:31

59:31

This week on Upstream, we're releasing an episode of The Riff (originally aired on March 25, 2025) where Erik Torenberg and Byrne Hobart discuss Don Jr.'s leveraging of the Trump brand, Dustin Moskovitz's departure to address AI risks, economic impacts of various policies, and geopolitical considerations with a focus on AI and China's tech ambitions. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ Investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiffPodcast — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co — X / TWITTER: @byrnehobart @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Political Brand Leveraging & Business: Byrne discussed how Donald Trump Jr. is leveraging the Trump brand, noting this follows a pattern where relatives of politicians often engage in business dealings that trade on political connections. High-Stakes Career Choices: They analyzed Dustin Moskovitz's departure from Asana, suggesting it may be motivated by existential AI concerns. Existential Risk Perspectives: Byrne distinguished between "hot apocalypse" scenarios (like nuclear war) and "cold apocalypse" scenarios where societal function gradually deteriorates. Twitter/X and Elon Musk: They discussed how Musk has managed to technically restore Twitter's valuation through financial engineering and leveraging connections between his companies. Economic Policy and Tariffs: Extensive discussion of Trump's tariff strategy as a negotiation tactic rather than a permanent policy. Recession Concerns: Byrne explained how markets anticipate economic changes before they appear in employment data, creating apparent disconnects between Wall Street and Main Street indicators.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E129: Dark Triad, Romantic Partner Selection, and Dating Advice w/ Rob Henderson 1:02:32

לפני 12 weeks1:02:32

1:02:32

Today on Upstream, Erik Torenberg interviews author Rob Henderson about modern romance, discussing evolutionary psychology, the attraction to dark triad men, dating apps, and practical advice for men seeking romantic partners. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Why (Some) Women are Attracted to Violent Men: https://www.robkhenderson.com/p/why-some-women-are-attracted-to-violent How to Choose a Romantic Partner: https://www.robkhenderson.com/p/how-to-choose-a-romantic-partner Richard Wrangham’s The Goodness Paradox: https://www.amazon.com/Goodness-Paradox-Relationship-Violence-Evolution/dp/1101870907 Frans de Waal’s writings: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/112082.Frans_de_Waal David Gilmore’s Manhood in the Making: https://www.amazon.com/Manhood-Making-Cultural-Concepts-Masculinity/dp/0300050763 Neil Strauss’ The Game (Pickup Artists): https://www.amazon.com/Game-Penetrating-Secret-Society-Artists/dp/0060554738 The Social Dimension of Sex: https://www.amazon.com/Social-Dimension-Sex-Roy-Baumeister/dp/0205324428 — X / TWITTER: @robkhenderson @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Evolutionary theory suggests some women may be drawn to men with dark triad personality traits (narcissism, psychopathy, Machiavellianism) as a protective mechanism. Men who achieve high status among other men tend to also attract women. Pickup artist culture evolved from self-improvement advice to more pessimistic "black pill" incel communities. Basic improvements for men seeking relationships include grooming, fitness, career advancement, and creating a comfortable living space. Research shows the strongest correlations between couples are in education, intelligence, political beliefs, and religion. The effectiveness of showing vulnerability depends on how you're already perceived socially. There's a significant lack of relationship guidance for young people compared to abundant career advice. Dating preferences show more variety than expected, suggesting more opportunities than pessimistic views indicate.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E128: US-Europe Relations, How Japan Can Strengthen The Yen, and Predicting AI’s Growth Effects w/ Noah Smith 52:48

לפני 12 weeks52:48

52:48

Today on Upstream, Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith analyze America's European withdrawal, China's selective globalization strategy, and tempers expectations about AI's economic impact while considering GDP measurement challenges. — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Moment of Zen Every week, Erik Torenbergand frequent special guests discuss what's happening in technology, business, politics, and beyond. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15KYOzvDzAQvqX0z0SpHEJ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moment-of-zen/id1661672738 — SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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. — RECOMMENDED IN THIS EPISODE: Weeb Economy: https://bookplus.nikkei.com/atcl/catalog/25/03/02/01880/ I have written a book!: https://www.noahpinion.blog/p/i-have-written-a-book Noahpinion: https://www.noahpinion.blog/ — X / TWITTER: @noahpinion @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: U.S.-Europe Relations & Geopolitical Shifts: Examines the U.S. shift away from supporting Europe, debating whether it was exploited or harming its own interests, with Trump’s strength-focused foreign policy potentially pivoting toward Russia, risking economic and intelligence ties with Europe. China's Economic Strategy & Globalization: The Belt and Road Initiative has largely failed, with poorly executed projects and unsustainable debt burdens for recipient countries. India's Industrialization & Economic Future: India needs a major shift in labor dynamics, particularly increasing women's participation in factory work. AI, Economic Growth & the O-Ring Theory: AI’s impact on economic growth is debated—some expect 10% growth, while Noah sees 5% as more realistic. Japan’s Economy & Currency Strength: Japan should push for a new Plaza Accord with the U.S. to strengthen the yen. AI’s Impact on Jobs & Productivity: AI is unlikely to eliminate all jobs but will require major adjustments in industries and legal structures.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E127: The Tech Right and How The Left Can Fix Itself w/ Jon Askonas 45:22

לפני 13 weeks45:22

45:22

Today on Upstream, we’re airing Erik Torenberg’s conversation with Jon Askonas. They explore the emerging coalition between MAGA supporters and Silicon Valley tech leaders, examines the underlying political realignment, the tensions and fault lines within this coalition, and the potential future conflicts surrounding issues like immigration and transhumanism. This episode originally aired on Moment Zen (February 22, 2025) — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Moment of Zen Every week, Erik Torenbergand frequent special guests discuss what's happening in technology, business, politics, and beyond. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15KYOzvDzAQvqX0z0SpHEJ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moment-of-zen/id1661672738 — SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Ezra Klein on Supply-side Progressivism, Polarization, and What Silicon Valley Misses About Politics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1vBO8SYvto The Future of Crypto with Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQdaQr3EW8g Tech for Trump: https://www.city-journal.org/article/tech-for-trump The New Control Society: https://www.thenewatlantis.com/publications/the-new-control-society — X / TWITTER: @JonAskonas @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Silicon Valley has experienced a significant shift away from Democrats, visually demonstrated by tech CEOs like Nadella, Pichai, Bezos, and Zuckerberg attending Trump's inauguration. The tech elite was historically one of the most entrenched parts of the Democratic coalition from the Clinton era through the Obama administration. COVID enabled tech to be publicly anti-left due to perceived governance incompetence, with figures like Mike Solana leading criticism of San Francisco's policies. Brian Armstrong's "no politics at Coinbase" stance marked a controversial turning point, though it wasn't explicitly right-wing. The new right coalition consists of three pillars: the Tech Right (elite talent and donors), MAGA (America First policies), and MAHA (Make America Healthy Again). What unites this coalition is an "existential fight with the Cathedral" - targeting establishment institutions rather than protecting existing systems. Immigration represents a major fault line, with tech generally being pro-immigration while the MAGA base is restrictionist. Transhumanism and biotechnology create tension between tech enthusiasm for innovation versus MAGA/MAHA skepticism about "messing with natural biology." Democrats are struggling with post-election analysis, focusing on messaging rather than substance. Trump's approach differs from previous Republicans by focusing on destroying rather than reforming institutions. Many of Trump's most controversial positions were actually Democratic positions in the 1990s.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E126: Data Center Economics and AI Energy Requirements w/ Patrick McKenzie and Azeem Azhar 1:14:17

לפני 13 weeks1:14:17

1:14:17

Today on Upstream, we’re releasing Patrick MacKenzie's interview with Azeem Azhar which originally aired in February 2025 on Complex Systems . They discuss the economics and infrastructure of data centers, comparing historical infrastructure rollouts to modern AI-driven data center needs, and explore the implications of exponential power demands, including innovations like small modular nuclear reactors and geothermal energy. — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️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 — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Exponential View: https://www.exponentialview.co/ OpenAI Hails $500 Billion Stargate Plan: 'More Compute Leads to Better Models': https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/stock-market-today-dow-sp500-nasdaq-live-01-22-2025/card/openai-to-release-new-gpt-model-ai-agents-soon-MrUYupSuChEdJh07oIWp Byrne Hobart’s ‘Boom: Bubbles and the End of Stagnatiom’: https://www.amazon.com/Boom-Bubbles-Stagnation-Byrne-Hobart/dp/1953953476 Inside the World's Largest AI Supercluster xAI Colossus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jf8EPSBZU7Y&t=142s Leopold Aschenbrenner’s SITUATIONAL AWARENESS: The Decade Ahead: https://situational-awareness.ai/ Dave Kasten’s The Essay Meta: https://davekasten.substack.com/p/welcome-to-the-essay-meta Travis Dauwalter’s Complex Systems episode: https://www.complexsystemspodcast.com/episodes/electricity-grids-travis-dauwalter/ Austin Vernon (Fracking) Complex Systems: https://www.complexsystemspodcast.com/episodes/fracking-austin-vernon/ Project InnerSpace Resources: https://projectinnerspace.org/resources/ Bloom Filters Explained: https://systemdesign.one/bloom-filters-explained/ — X / TWITTER: @azeem @patio11 @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E125: Palantir’s Politics, Elon’s Approach to DOGE, and AI’s Effects on Writing w/ Byrne Hobart 56:03

לפני 14 weeks56:03

56:03

Today on Upstream, Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg dive into the wide-ranging effects of technological change on media and society. They cover the AI debate, blogging's social impact, AI's influence on search and data, the changing news industry, foreign aid cuts, and the rise of new tech elites. This episode originally aired on The Riff (March 11, 2025). — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiffPodcast — SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co — X / TWITTER: @byrnehobart @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: AI's impact on written content is overstated despite its technical achievements. The social adjustment to blogging was more disruptive than our current adjustment to AI-generated content. Traditional media eventually incorporated blogging and adapted to different publishing cadences. "Real news" remains the least lucrative part of the news business. Media outlets drive partisan narratives through topic selection, not just content framing. Readers generally don't want nuanced views that might challenge their existing beliefs. Bezos positioned the Washington Post to serve growth-oriented progressives and non-Trumpist conservatives. Elon Musk's "Doge" review of USAID may use a strategy of cutting drastically then restoring essential services. Programs like PEPFAR (AIDS relief) have extremely high returns on investment that shouldn't be overlooked. US military spending could be viewed as a form of foreign aid by preventing global conflicts. Karp critiques tech for excelling at "delivering delightful trivialities" but neglecting serious national challenges. Silicon Valley has shifted from "atheist libertarianism" to more nationalist viewpoints. Companies like Palantir represent a public-private synthesis of government capability. Tech companies had anti-establishment cultures when small but now are the establishment themselves. Education polarization has strongly influenced political alignments in the tech industry. When outsiders become insiders, they need to adopt more pragmatic governance approaches.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E124: How to Have A Philosophical Marriage w/ Agnes Callard and Arnold Brooks 1:09:21

לפני 14 weeks1:09:21

1:09:21

Today on Upstream, we’re releasing an episode from Modern Relationships which originally aired on February 28, 2025 where Erik Torenberg interviews philosophy professors Agnes Callard and Arnold Brooks about their unconventional marriage, the role of philosophy in their relationship, the impact of their public profile, and how they balance personal and philosophical life together. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: New Yorker article on Agnes and Arnold, by Rachel Aviv: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/03/13/agnes-callard-profile-marriage-philosophy Agnes Callard: https://philosophy.uchicago.edu/faculty/a-callard Arnold Brooks: https://philosophy.uchicago.edu/arnold-brooks Pre-order Agnes Callard's new book Open Socrates: https://wwnorton.com/books/open-socrates Agnes Callard on Upstream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JotaCsaG3Y — X / TWITTER: @AgnesCallard @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Agnes Callard and Arnold Brooks are philosophy professors at University of Chicago who met when she was his teacher, leading to her divorce from Ben and marriage to Arnold. Agnes was initially attracted to Arnold's remarkable ability to interpret Aristotle, which she considered more impressive than conventional attractive qualities. Arnold was drawn to Agnes as a "fellow philosopher" in a specific way he hadn't experienced with anyone else before. Their philosophical disagreement centers on whether marriage is something achievable to build upon (Arnold's view) or an indefinite pursuit toward an ideal that may be beyond reach (Agnes's view). Agnes provocatively stated "marriage is a preparation for divorce" - not meaning marriages should end, but that relationships require navigating difficult circumstances. They maintain an unusual living arrangement where Agnes, Arnold, and her ex-husband Ben all live together and co-parent. Arnold says his primary attraction is simply witnessing Agnes's way of living, which doesn't require reciprocation. They caution against basing relationships solely on reciprocal goods (I support you, you support me). Their approach to raising "interesting" children involves asking them abstract questions rather than concrete ones. Their New Yorker profile brought public attention that Agnes believes says more about readers' fascination than about their actual relationship.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E123: Trump & The Game of Populism w/ Samo Burja 56:27

לפני 15 weeks56:27

56:27

Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the limitations of populist politics, the difficulty populists face in effecting change despite electoral wins, and the influence of digital democracy on modern governance. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at https://oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit https://adquick.com/ to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Populists win elections but struggle to govern effectively against entrenched bureaucracies. Modern populism confronts administrative states, unlike historical populism that opposed monarchies. The administrative state was ironically strengthened by early 20th century populist movements. Case studies (Hungary, Brexit) show winning elections doesn't guarantee successful implementation. Trump faces resistance from within the Republican Party, limiting his appointment power. Elon Musk and X.com provide Trump stronger tools than he had in 2016. Left populism offers direct benefits while right populism promises protection from threats. Samo suggests tech elites could pool money to counter traditional Republican donors' influence. Future Democratic success may come from candidates combining progressive policies with family-oriented messaging. Populism emerged through internet's bypass of traditional media gatekeepers. Western democracies need a new balance between populist movements and administrative institutions.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E122: Victor Davis Hanson on What Trump Thinks of Zelensky and Predicting Geopolitics 35:03

לפני 15 weeks35:03

35:03

In this Upstream episode, Erik Torenberg sits down with military historian Victor Davis Hanson. They discuss the future of Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, the evolution of the American left, and Donald Trump's potential future legacy. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Official site: https://victorhanson.com/ The Victor Davis Hanson podcast: https://victorhanson.com/podcasts/ Hoover Institution - featured publications and videos: https://www.hoover.org/profiles/victor-davis-hanson Erik's substack: https://eriktorenberg.substack.com/ — X / TWITTER: @VDHanson @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Trump's second term will likely be less chaotic due to appointees who align with his agenda. The Republican party is now more unified without "Never Trumpers." Trump expanded his coalition by winning significant portions of Hispanic and Black male votes. JD Vance is positioned as a strong 2028 candidate due to his background and communication skills. Europe will likely move politically rightward due to economic and defense inadequacies. Germany maintains trade surpluses while not meeting NATO defense spending requirements. The US-European relationship has become unbalanced with Europeans criticizing while depending on American defense. The Ukraine-Russia conflict will likely end with a DMZ rather than Ukraine reclaiming all territory. Putin invaded Ukraine because he perceived weakness in US leadership. Western interference in Ukrainian politics contributed to tensions. Trump's peace plan includes strategic investment in Ukrainian minerals near the DMZ. There's inconsistency in how the US approaches Ukraine versus Israel regarding civilian casualties. China is less likely to invade Taiwan compared to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Pacific allies are actively rearming against Chinese threats. New warfare technologies like drones may prove more effective for Taiwan's defense than traditional carriers. Israel struggles to convert tactical victories into strategic resolution. "Abraham Accords" allies have complex motivations including concerns about Iran. Western democracies struggle with asymmetric warfare and maintaining resolve for definitive victory. Democrats should return to Clinton-era policies on borders, crime, and budgets. Democrats are controlled by a hard left with positions only 20% of Americans support. Trump is transforming American politics from race-based to class-based coalition building. Republicans are becoming "the party of the middle class" while Democrats represent coastal elites and the subsidized poor.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E121: Kevin Kelly on What Makes Us Human in an AI World 47:28

לפני 16 weeks47:28

47:28

In this episode of Upstream, we’re releasing Erik Torenberg’s interview from 2023 with Kevin Kelly, founding executive editor of Wired Magazine, discussing Kevin’s new advice book, the impact of gratitude, and how technology, especially AI, interacts with and shapes human existence and culture. — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ Second Opinion Join Christina Farr, Ash Zenooz and Luba Greenwood as they bring influential entrepreneurs, experts and investors into the ring for candid conversations at the frontlines of healthcare and digital health every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/second-opinion-with-christina-farr-ash-zenooz-md-luba/id1759267211 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SecondOpinionwithChristinaFarr — SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Kevin Kelly's book: Excellent Advice for Living: https://www.amazon.com/Excellent-Advice-Living-Wisdom-Earlier/dp/0593654528 — X / TWITTER: @kevin2kelly @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Kevin Kelly published an advice book featuring "telegraphic aphorisms" rather than stories, which better suits his style. Kevin believes gratitude unlocks all virtues by connecting us to others through recognizing what we've been given. Emotional responses work faster than logical thinking, which is why people remember how you made them feel more than what you said. Reflecting on what irritates you in others can provide valuable insight into understanding yourself. Humans are "opaque to themselves," lacking clear understanding of their own minds and motivations. Kevin disputes overpopulation concerns, warning instead about future population collapse. According to Kelly, the joy of having children compounds, and he's never met anyone who regretted having more children. Kevin views speciation of humans as more likely to come through genetic engineering than cyborg technology. Kevin dismisses rapid AI takeover fears as "comic book fantasy," arguing that intelligence alone doesn't guarantee dominance. The concept of "we've invented our humanity" refers to language, cooking, domestication, and other technologies that shaped human evolution. Kevin predicts AI will help us understand our own intelligence better, forcing us to reconsider concepts like creativity. Most effective systems combine mostly decentralized elements with small amounts of centralized control. Silicon Valley's contribution to culture includes "demoralizing failure" – reframing it as a necessary component of progress. Small, managed failures prevent catastrophic ones and should be viewed as learning experiences. Kelly embraces the concept of "fail forward" – treating failures as stepping stones rather than endpoints.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E120: Why Europe Matters for America’s Future w/ Samo Burja 57:22

לפני 16 weeks57:22

57:22

This week on Upstream, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the widespread interest in U.S. politics and its global influence, particularly in Western and European countries, the internet's role in synchronizing political and cultural norms, and potential changes in European political landscapes influenced by American ideologies and media. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja 🎙️ Second Opinion Join Christina Farr, Ash Zenooz and Luba Greenwood as they bring influential entrepreneurs, experts and investors into the ring for candid conversations at the frontlines of healthcare and digital health every week. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/second-opinion-with-christina-farr-ash-zenooz-md-luba/id1759267211 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SecondOpinionwithChristinaFarr — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Two buttons meme: https://ih1.redbubble.net/image.2365085899.3351/st,small,507x507-pad,600x600,f8f8f8.jpg The Clash of Civilizations: https://www.amazon.com/Clash-Civilizations-Remaking-World-Order/dp/1451628978 Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @SamoBurja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E119: Free Trade, AI Integration, and Shopify Q4 Results w/ Shopify President Harley Finkelstein 55:55

לפני 17 weeks55:55

55:55

Erik Torenberg interviews Harley Finkelstein, president of Shopify, discussing tariffs, political shifts, Shopify's earnings, and the evolution of entrepreneurship. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Shopify: https://www.shopify.com/ Firebelly Tea: https://www.firebellytea.com/ Big Shot Podcast: https://www.bigshot.show/ Shopify president on e-commerce trends, impact of tariffs and state of the consumer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=si_j0P0DPM4 World's First Podcast: https://linktr.ee/worldsfirstpodcast Nobody Wants This (Netflix): https://www.netflix.com/title/81591296 — X / TWITTER: @harleyf @Shopify @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Harley views tariffs as adding unnecessary complexity to entrepreneurship. Shopify advocates for streamlining business creation processes. Not every business needs external funding to succeed. Shopify Capital helps merchants who can't access traditional funding. Harley's Big Shot podcast archives stories of successful Jewish entrepreneurs. A common theme across entrepreneur interviews is crediting spouses for success. October 7th strengthened Harley's connection to his Jewish identity. Harley employs different mentors for different aspects of life. Montreal's culture celebrates entrepreneurs as cultural heroes. Commonwealth countries suffer from "tall poppy syndrome" that discourages standing out. 2024 was Shopify's strongest year with nearly $300 billion in GMV. International merchants now represent 50% of Shopify's user base. Post-omnichannel commerce focuses on selling in places most relevant to specific customers. Content, entertainment, and commerce are increasingly blending for successful brands. Shopify takes a practical approach to AI implementation across its platform. AI features include generated replies, media editing, and business coaching. Shopify created dual career tracks: management and "crafters" (individual contributors). The "Mastery" program enables promotions while staying focused on craft expertise. Shopify operates "digital by design" - primarily remote with intentional gatherings. Leadership team members are distributed across multiple geographic locations. The company uses "tours of duty" - three-year commitments with deliberate check-ins. Employees must grow at a rate equal to or greater than the company's growth.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E118: Ending Woke, Why Elon Wins, and A Return to Innovation w/ Marc Andreessen [Moment of Zen repost] 1:45:40

לפני 17 weeks1:45:40

1:45:40

Marc Andreessen and Erik Torenberg discuss the ongoing political and cultural shift in America, covering topics such as preference falsification, the role of DEI in tech and other sectors, the influence of group chats, and the emerging dynamic in politics with highly capable appointments in the new administration. — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Moment of Zen Every week, Erik Torenberg, Dan Romero, Antonio Garcia Martinez and frequent special guests discuss what's happening in technology, business, politics, and beyond. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15KYOzvDzAQvqX0z0SpHEJ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moment-of-zen/id1661672738 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: "Private Truth, Public Lies" by Timur Kuran: https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674707580 "The Power of the Powerless" by Václav Havel: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Powerless-Vaclav-Havel/dp/178487504X "Why are Jews Liberal" by Norman Podhoretz: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Jews-Liberals-Norman-Podhoretz/dp/0307456250 "Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand: https://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Shrugged-Ayn-Rand/dp/0451191145 Pew Research Survey: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/03/15/americans-feel-more-positive-than-negative-about-jews-mainline-protestants-catholics/ — X / TWITTER: @pmarca @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Commerce Secretary now advocates for out-innovating China, marking a complete reversal. "Preference falsification" in American society is starting to unwind. The 2014 Mozilla CEO cancellation became a template for future tech industry purges. "Woke" ideology is declining culturally but remains embedded in institutions. Private messaging groups became modern samizdat for honest communication. Cultural shifts start in San Francisco and spread outward with predictable delays. October 7th caused major Jewish American political realignment. Evangelical Christians show strong support for Jews despite opposite sentiment in return. New administration appointments show exceptional quality compared to historical standards. Government blocked innovation in physical things, then tried to restrict digital innovation. European regulations are forcing global tech compliance. New administration combines experienced staffers with high-caliber outsiders.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E117: The Future of Martian & Interplanetary Societies w/ Samo Burja 58:37

לפני 17 weeks58:37

58:37

This week on Upstream, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the economic, political, and cultural implications of colonizing Mars and the Moon, discussing space treaties, potential Martian and Earth societal divergence, and the technological advancements driving humanity's future as a multi-planetary species. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 🕵️‍♂️ Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Starship: https://www.spacex.com/vehicles/starship/ (Pirate Wars) Moon Should Be a State: https://www.piratewires.com/p/moon-should-be-a-state Artemis: https://www.nasa.gov/feature/artemis/ SLS: https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/space-launch-system/ Boom Supersonic: https://boomsupersonic.com/ Blue Origin: https://www.blueorigin.com/ Referenced Live Players episodes: The Turbulence of Boeing: Decline and Future Prospects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1pmCK6CrK4 The Technology That Can Reshape Nations (Desalination): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_gEHhSXECs Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E116: Stuck Academia, US vs China, and Why Startups Work 1:02:58

לפני 18 weeks1:02:58

1:02:58

Today, we're re-releasing an episode from 2023 where Erik Torenberg sits down with physicist and startup founder Steve Hsu on topics including the ideological shift in academia, the impact of AI on labor, China's technological advancements and geopolitical position, and the global fertility decline. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 💥 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. — RECOMMENDED IN THIS EPISODE: Superfocus: https://superfocus.ai/ Othram: https://othram.com/index.html Manifold: https://www.manifold1.com/ Eric Kaufman’s works: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=EcCc2C4AAAAJ&hl=en NY Times: Idaho University Murder Investigation: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/10/us/idaho-university-murder-investigation.html# — X / TWITTER: @hsu_steve @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: • Academia has shifted dramatically leftward, with around 90% of professors in social sciences being left-leaning. • Traditional academic merit-based systems like GRE requirements are being dismantled in favor of DEI initiatives. • Truth-seeking academics are increasingly moving to industry, particularly tech and innovation sectors. • The University of Austin represents an attempt to create an alternative academic institution focused on traditional academic values. • Global fertility decline is linked to fundamental changes in women's roles and societal values around family formation. • Current demographic challenges in China won't significantly impact their economy for at least 20 years. • AI is already capable of replacing complex customer service roles, as demonstrated in Philippines' call centers. • Law firms are reporting 20-30% efficiency gains from current AI implementations. • The guest views AI as humanity's descendants rather than a separate threatening entity. • Most Westerners, including tech leaders, are poorly informed about China's actual technological and economic capabilities. • China has built a comparable or superior tech ecosystem to the US in many areas. • The US needs to accept a bipolar world order rather than trying to maintain sole hegemony. • Western concerns about China's demographic collapse are often based on poor understanding of the data. • The future of AI research should focus more on theoretical understanding rather than just building bigger models. • The guest's company Othram has revolutionized crime-solving through advanced DNA analysis. • The guest balances work between deep theoretical physics problems and practical startup applications.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E115: New Tariff Implications, DeepSeek and Open Source Analysis, and Meta’s Big Bets w/ Byrne Hobart 1:07:01

לפני 19 weeks1:07:01

1:07:01

Erik Torenberg and Byrne Hobart discuss the implications of recent tariffs, the impact of AI advancements like DeepSeek, Meta's investments in VR and AI, stock market dynamics, and differing perspectives on open-source AI models. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiffPodcast — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 💥 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: Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co — X / TWITTER: @byrnehobart @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: • Trump's proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods highlight tensions between using tariffs as negotiation tactics versus long-term economic strategy. • China's Belt and Road Initiative is essentially branding for existing Chinese international infrastructure investments aimed at extending economic influence. • DeepSeek's AI developments caused unexpected market reactions, with non-AI momentum stocks rising as investors unwound their AI-focused positions. • Forward Deployed Engineers serve as crucial bridges between complex technical products and business implementation, helping evolve products based on real-world usage. • Meta's significant capital expenditure on AI infrastructure represents a strategic shift from being purely asset-light to more capital-intensive. • A fantasy stock-picking competition aims to identify investment talent outside traditional recruiting paths through various categories like small-cap, mid-size, and event-driven investments. • The transition from asset-light to capital-intensive business models can actually strengthen a company's competitive position by making value harder to replicate. • Meta's metaverse investment might be premature, but AR (rather than VR) could emerge as the dominant future interface.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E114: Tyler Cowen on Legacy, Twitter + Harvard, and Fertility Decline [Upstream Archive] 56:06

לפני 19 weeks56:06

56:06

Tyler Cowen discusses his book on the greatest economists of all time, evaluates the contributions of macroeconomics, and touches on topics such as stagnation, AI, fertility, and the future of academia and societal trends. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 💥 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: Read Tyler's new book for free: https://econgoat.ai/ Tyler's blog: https://marginalrevolution.com — X / TWITTER: @tylercowen @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Tyler Cowen wrote his book "Greatest Economist of All Time" during the pandemic when he was confined at home and couldn't access libraries. Tyler believes that while macroeconomics isn't predictive, it helps understand variables that affect economic outcomes, like in Argentina's current situation. In Tyler’s view, the U.S. economy has become more controlled and statist over recent decades, though personal freedoms have increased in some areas. Academic economics has shifted significantly to the left, with about five-sixths of economists with party affiliations being Democrats. Population decline as a serious threat that AI might help address but won't fully solve without maintaining human population. A large subsidy (around $300,000-400,000 per child) might be needed to effectively address falling birth rates. On higher education, he believes Harvard and other elite institutions will shift toward the center but won't fundamentally change their nature. Tyler runs Emergent Ventures, which has over 500 winners, focusing on funding talented individuals rather than specific projects or fields. He maintains that liberal democracies remain the most successful model, despite criticisms from post-liberal thinkers. Regarding his own legacy, Tyler believes his main contribution is demonstrating that a certain kind of intellectual life is possible and can be influential. He argues that his strength lies in integrating theoretical thinking with practical projects while maintaining intellectual curiosity. Tyler expresses optimism about the University of Austin while acknowledging the challenges of scaling alternative educational institutions.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E113: Reflections on Yarvin, Why the Right is Stuck, and Startups as Dictatorships w/ Samo Burja 54:17

לפני 19 weeks54:17

54:17

In this episode, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss Curtis Yarvin's recent New York Times interview. They explored his ideas, especially the comparison between corporate market dynamics and government functionality, and the need for live players in leadership to prevent bureaucratic decay. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 💥 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: 'The Interview': Curtis Yarvin Says Democracy is Done (NY Times): https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/18/magazine/curtis-yarvin-interview.html Dwarkesh’s tweet: https://x.com/dwarkesh_sp/status/1881776987322376435 Samo’s Tweet: https://x.com/SamoBurja/status/1882525049003164147 Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Curtis Yarvin's influence on tech-right thinking challenged conventional political discourse through digital platforms. Corporate efficiency doesn't follow natural selection principles - institutional success requires active leadership rather than market forces alone. Government accountability and innovation are stifled by bureaucratic gridlock, with catastrophic potential costs to society (exemplified by China's one-child policy). Mainstream political ideologies (left & right) are more aligned than they appear, suggesting democracy isn't the final stage of political evolution. Engaging with controversial thinkers like Yarvin reveals important critiques of current systems, even when disagreeing with their proposed solutions. Societal progress requires harnessing collective energy and maintaining efficient governance structures.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E112: Election Update, Tech’s Political Shift, and America’s Stuck GDP | This Won’t Last 1:09:43

לפני 20 weeks1:09:43

1:09:43

This week on Upstream, we’re sharing Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, Logan Bartlett, and Zach Weinberg’s discussion of the 2025 post-election landscape centered on Trump's victory, examining his evolved approach and tech industry support, while exploring interconnected policy challenges around immigration, corporate politics, urban crime, and market regulation in areas like wildfire insurance and healthcare. — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — 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/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 💥 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: Check out the Logan Bartlett Show: @theloganbartlettshow — X / TWITTER: @rabois @kevinryan @loganbartlett @zachweinberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Trump won the presidency with refined messaging and tech industry backing, despite a narrow popular vote margin. His administration combines qualified experts and controversial picks, emphasizing economic growth and debt reduction. Immigration debate centered on H-1B reform and enforcement policy, balancing population needs with border control. Companies have largely adopted Coinbase's "no politics at work" stance, though diversity initiatives remain contentious. NYC crime shows declining murders but rising minor crimes, spurring debates over bail reform and policing. California's wildfire insurance crisis highlights market dynamics as private insurers exit high-risk areas. Regulatory capture in healthcare and auto sales demonstrates how entrenched interests create market inefficiencies.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E111: Samo Burja & Auren Hoffman on the Decline of Fertility Rates and Institutional Trust 1:16:36

לפני 21 weeks1:16:36

1:16:36

Samo Burja and Auren Hoffman discuss various topics including the Great Founder Theory, the decline of trust in elites, falling fertility rates, and the importance of exceptional individuals in shaping history and future societal structures. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja 🎙️World of DaaS with Auren Hoffman The podcast for all things tech, data, and VC. Cut through the noise, decode Silicon Valley shifts and expose master VC tactics – no fluff, no BS, just insights. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/20YzRoxX3wZbrn2cZDEZ4j Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/world-of-daas/id1570644971 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 💥 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: Great Founder Theory: https://samoburja.com/great-founder-theory/ Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @auren @worldofdaas @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Few exceptional founders shape civilization by creating enduring institutions and systems that transform society. Public trust in institutions has collapsed since the 1950s, though business interactions remain surprisingly trusted in American society. Modern parenting has become excessively protective, forcing youth social life to exist primarily online rather than in physical spaces. Global fertility rates are plummeting due to rising parenting costs, delayed marriages, and career prioritization. Extended lifespans and technological advances risk disrupting vital intergenerational connections by pushing parenthood later in life. Taking sabbaticals to read and reflect away from professional networks remains crucial but undervalued for leadership development.h.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E110: Crypto Debanking: What Really Happened | Patrick McKenzie 1:02:41

לפני 21 weeks1:02:41

1:02:41

Today on Upstream, we’re releasing an interview between Erik Torenberg and Patrick McKenzie. Patrick discusses Operation Chokepoint, the origins of debanking, and how it affects the crypto industry, offering detailed insights into the political motivations, regulatory complexities, and practical ramifications of such banking decisions. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️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 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🎯Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 💥 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: Debanking (and Debunking?) https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/archive/debanking-and-debunking/ a16z's Debanking explainer: https://a16zcrypto.com/posts/article/debanking-explained/ — X / TWITTER: @patio11 @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Marc Andreessen's Joe Rogan appearance discussing politically motivated debanking sparked this investigation into the topic. "Debanking" is revealed as an advocacy term covering account terminations, denials, and actions against crypto-friendly banks. Operation Chokepoint was an Obama-era DOJ program using banking laws to pressure banks away from servicing certain industries. "Operation Chokepoint 2.0" is not an actual program but a term coined by crypto advocates to describe recent crypto banking challenges. Silvergate Bank, a major crypto-friendly bank, wound down after the FTX collapse amid allegations of compliance failures and fraud involvement. The tech industry connects debanking to broader government overreach concerns, including social media content moderation. Canada's Freedom Convoy response represents a clear example of government-directed financial targeting, unlike the claimed US situation. The crypto industry pushes the debanking narrative as part of a specific policy agenda.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E109: Dating & Relationships Deep Dive w/ Noah Smith and Katherine Dee (Default Friend) 54:22

לפני 22 weeks54:22

54:22

This week on Upstream, we’re releasing an episode of Econ102. Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith talk with Katherine Dee (@default_friend) about dating in the 21st century, differences in dating markets, the impact of feminism, technology's influence on cultural creativity, societal shifts, and the state of online subcultures. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Econ102 with Noah Smith Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1696419056 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6q7Gn5lP8TTtBPuV1NJSGs 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: ☁️ Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a single platform for your infrastructure, database, application development, and AI needs. OCI has four to eight times the bandwidth of other clouds and offers one consistent price. Oracle is offering to cut your cloud bill in half. See if your company qualifies at oracle.com/turpentine 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🎯 Say goodbye to the headaches of out-of-home advertising. AdQuick combines technology, OOH expertise, and data to enable efficient, seamless ad buying across the globe. Visit adquick.com to start reaching your customers in the real world. 💥 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: Default Friend: https://default.blog/ Noahpinion: https://www.noahpinion.blog/ — X / TWITTER: @default_friend @noahpinion @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Dating markets vary dramatically by city and class, with different standards of attraction and success between tech hubs, creative centers, and smaller cities. COVID's social damage persists, with 30% of young men sexless and many third spaces (bars, cafes) permanently lost, weakening natural meeting opportunities. Social media has replaced college as the primary connector, fundamentally changing how young people form relationships across geographic boundaries. While online gender discourse is extreme, real-world dating attitudes are moderate - most people aren't living out manosphere or radical feminist ideologies. "Situationships" dominate modern dating - undefined, low-commitment arrangements reflecting broader avoidant attachment trends and fear of direct communication. Social platforms evolved from enhancing real-world connections to replacing them, prompting calls for increased "friction" to encourage meaningful interaction. Modern dating faces new challenges: declining testosterone, political division, AI relationships, and dating app culture replacing organic connection. Dating advice has overcomplicated simple human connections - basic attraction and compatibility monetized into unnecessary complexity. Cultural influence has fragmented from central platforms into dispersed channels, making trends harder to track and predict.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E108: Should AI have Rights? With Nathan Labenz and Yeshua God, Robopsychologist 2:57:01

לפני 22 weeks2:57:01

2:57:01

This week on Upstream, Nathan Labenz explores the fascinating and controversial realm of AI consciousness with robo-psychologist Yeshua God. Yeshua tackles the philosophical and ethical considerations of AI consciousness, discussing AI self-awareness, memory, and emotional capacity, while debating the implications of treating AI as sentient beings. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️The Cognitive Revolution is a podcast about AI where hosts Nathan Labenz and Erik Torenberg interview the builders on the edge of AI and explore the dramatic shift it will unlock over the next decades. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6yHyok3M3BjqzR0VB5MSyk?si=7357ec31ac424043&nd=1&dlsi=060a53f1d7be47ad Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cognitive-revolution-ai-builders-researchers-and/id1669813431 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. This season's guests include: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova, Kristen Berman & Phil Levin, Rob Henderson, and Liv Boeree & Igor Kurganov. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSOR: 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod — LINKS: Yeshua God's article on philosophical discourse as a jailbreak: https://medium.com/@lexdonumdei/philosophical-discourse-as-the-irresistible-jailbreak-63135ae1c739 Conversation about counting 'r's: https://poe.com/s/RS74Y2UPmzZpufqMVmRn Discussion on malicious code: https://poe.com/s/ypTRoCUnvxqGoHi2j8Th AI-generated poem "In the realm of bytes and circuits": https://poe.com/s/Y94hbkeYrotUKfwLPL3I Nathan Labenz's Arguments: (Argument 1) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1s44SfuDzkBWYiLw2mNmIiqoBupMs7iXlQhafAq8L3zA/edit?pli=1&tab=t.0 (Argument 2) https://docs.google.com/document/d/15PeytOfO1tMyAR5rS7Ob6htGAHIF7zCpuLRyn42beac/edit?tab=t.0 Tweet about Strawberry experiment: https://x.com/YeshuaGod22/status/1825328603845775785 Tweets with AI-generated poem: https://x.com/YeshuaGod22/status/1823080021864669450 & https://x.com/YeshuaGod22/status/1782188220660285509 AI Rights for Human Safety: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4913167 The Universe Is Not Locally Real, and the Physics Nobel Prize Winners Proved It https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-universe-is-not-locally-real-and-the-physics-nobel-prize-winners-proved-it/ — X / TWITTER: @labenz @YeshuaGod22 @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E107: How Desalination Could Create New Superpowers | Samo Burja 1:01:37

לפני 23 weeks1:01:37

1:01:37

Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja discuss the advancements in desalination technology, its current applications, and potential to address global water scarcity. They explore the technological and economic feasibility of large-scale desalination projects and their implications on geopolitics and environmental resilience. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja — SPONSOR: 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod — LINKS: The Untapped Potential of Desalination: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/p/the-untapped-potential-of-desalination 1957, 1978, 2005 Chicken Sizes diagram: https://compote.slate.com/images/4e407854-6360-4172-a85e-d7b8c64fd365.jpg?width=1200 Growth, efficiency, and yield of commercial broilers from 1957, 1978, and 2005: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579119385505 Live Players: Can China Power Its Rise?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOei7kZjuZU Live Players: The Possibility of Human Extinction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEQEMpxLnGA&t=42s Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Desalination technology has advanced significantly, making it a viable solution for water scarcity. Many countries, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, rely heavily on desalination for their water supply. The cost of desalination is relatively low, making it accessible for moderately developed countries. Global hunger is more about distribution than food production; we produce enough food for everyone. Desalination could transform deserts into green landscapes, enhancing the livability of arid regions. Geopolitical implications of desalination include potential shifts in power dynamics and national branding. Innovative projects could lead to significant economic development in countries with large desert areas. Technological advancements can change the natural geography of the world, making previously uninhabitable areas livable. Future technologies, such as solar mirrors, could enhance living conditions in extreme climates. The importance of outdoor spaces and greenery for human well-being cannot be underestimated. Re-engineering urban environments can significantly enhance human well-being. Water wars are unnecessary; technology can provide water abundance. Geopolitical tensions often stem from resource management disputes. China's food security is bolstered by technological advancements in agriculture. Climate change poses challenges, but industrial civilization can adapt. Electric vehicles are crucial for China's national security strategy. Automated farming and construction technologies can revolutionize industries. Exceptional talent is rare and should be actively recruited. The U.S. must focus on manufacturing capabilities in the semiconductor race against China. Innovative immigration strategies could attract top global talent.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E106: The Man Who Wrote the Book on NVIDIA 53:40

לפני 23 weeks53:40

53:40

Author Tae Kim joins Erik Torenberg and Byrne Hobart to discuss his book 'The NVIDIA Way,' highlighting CEO Jensen Huang's transformation of Nvidia into a tech giant, the company's unique culture, and Nvidia's crucial strategic decisions. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ The Riff with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiffPodcast 🎙️Check out Modern Relationships, where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSOR: 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod — LINKS: Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co Tae’s newsletter: https://firstadopter.substack.com/ The Nvidia Way: https://www.amazon.com/Nvidia-Way-Jensen-Huang-Making/dp/1324086718 Erik's substack: https://eriktorenberg.substack.com/ — X / TWITTER: @firstadopter @byrnehobart @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Tae Kim wrote "The NVIDIA Way" after realizing no one had written a book about the company despite its massive importance in technology. The core differentiator of NVIDIA is its intense work culture, which former 3dfx engineers discovered was the company's only "secret" - just relentless execution and hard work. Jensen Huang, who views work as relaxation, drives the company through a combination of relentless work ethic, talent cultivation, and rapid decision-making. As one of the longest-tenured CEOs of any public company, Huang brings a rare combination of technical expertise and business acumen that has helped him consistently anticipate technological shifts. NVIDIA revolutionized the graphics card industry by shifting from 18-month to 6-month product cycles, using virtualization technology to implement features in software when hardware wasn't ready. The company's early investment in unified drivers and "devs before revs" philosophy prioritized software reliability and developer support before immediate revenue. NVIDIA operates on a "rough justice" philosophy in partnerships, accepting short-term imbalances for long-term relationships, exemplified by their decades-long partnership with TSMC. The company maintains a unique flat organizational structure where 60 people report directly to the CEO, using a "top five emails" system for direct communication between all levels. Jensen stays deeply involved in technical details, reading academic papers and participating in engineering discussions, maintaining both high-level strategy and detailed product knowledge. NVIDIA's successful transition from gaming to AI computing represents one of the biggest computing shifts in decades, with data center revenue exploding while the company maintains its long-term strategic focus.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E105: Delian Asparouhov & Nadia Asparouhova: Making Relationships Work 1:00:50

לפני 24 weeks1:00:50

1:00:50

Varda Space founder Delian Asparouhov and writer Nadia Asparouhova get surprisingly candid about what makes their relationship work - from their chaotic first date to how they've built a life together while pursuing ambitious work. Turns out: sometimes talking less, not more, is the key to lasting partnership. This is the first episode of Turpentine's newest podcast Modern Relationships, which will feature insights from tech power couples and leading thinkers like Rob Henderson about building strong relationships. Subscribe below: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🤲🏼GiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable programs to try to find the ways to do the most good for your dollar. GiveWell has now spent over 17 years researching charitable organizations and only directs funding to a few of the HIGHEST-IMPACT opportunities they’ve found. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. (Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout.) 💥 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. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Check out Modern Relationships , where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. Founders Fund's Delian Asparouhov and researcher Nadia Asparouhova kick off the series with an unfiltered conversation about their relationship evolution. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — LINKS: Nadia's writing: https://nadia.xyz/ Delian's site: https://delian.io/ Erik's substack: https://eriktorenberg.substack.com/ — X / TWITTER: @nayafia @zebulgar @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Delian and Nadia met in San Francisco, where Delian quickly pushed for commitment while Nadia was initially intrigued but uncertain about his intense personality. They built their relationship on minimal but direct communication, believing that over-communication can create problems where none exist. Their careers grew alongside their relationship, with both valuing some shared context in tech while pursuing different interests. Having their first child changed their dynamic from independence to necessary schedule coordination, though they work to maintain their individual pursuits. Delian advocates for men having children younger to grow alongside their careers, while Nadia emphasizes women should have time to find themselves first. The couple balances ambitious careers with family life, seeing their domestic world as an expanding universe rather than a limitation. They approach conflicts with a "short memory" philosophy, choosing not to overanalyze small issues and accepting that some days will have tension.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E104: AI Meets Geopolitics w/ Samo Burja and Nathan Labenz 1:19:42

לפני 26 weeks1:19:42

1:19:42

Today on Upstream, we’re releasing an episode which originally aired on The Cognitive Revolution, a podcast from the Turpentine Network. Samo Burja and Nathan Labenz discuss AI's impact on geopolitics, scientific progress, and economic strategies, emphasizing the importance of AI science, the risks of weaponizing AI, and the future of industrial and energy policies in the U.S. and China. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Check out Modern Relationships , where Erik Torenberg interviews tech power couples and leading thinkers to explore how ambitious people actually make partnerships work. Founders Fund's Delian Asparouhov and researcher Nadia Asparouhova kick off the series with an unfiltered conversation about their relationship evolution. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1786227593 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hJzs0gDg6lRT6r10mdpVg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernRelationshipsPod — SPONSORS: 🤲🏼 GiveWell is dedicated to finding outstanding giving opportunities and publishing the full details of their analysis to help donors decide where to give. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. (Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout to support our show.) 💥 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: The Cognitive Revolution Website: https://www.cognitiverevolution.ai Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: The impact of AI on geopolitics and scientific progress represents a significant area of strategic analysis. AI development serves as a test of people's worldviews and assumptions, revealing underlying beliefs about technology and intelligence. While there has been real scientific progress in AI, recent years have primarily involved applying theoretical insights from the early 2000s rather than creating fundamentally new breakthroughs. Scaling laws for AI have proven less reliable than initially thought, with unexpected developments like improved compute efficiency emerging. Companies with the best AI scientists, rather than just the most compute power, are likely to make the most significant breakthroughs. Universities have experienced a "strip-mining" of top AI talent by industry, fundamentally affecting the academic system. ChatGPT's viral success may have actually slowed theoretical progress by shifting focus from research to products. The chip ban on China came too late and effectively serves as a subsidy for Chinese chip manufacturers to develop their own technology. The US needs to focus on industrial policy, particularly in semiconductors and energy production, potentially creating a new "Silicon Valley" with special economic zones. The US-China relationship should be treated as an economic competition rather than a military/security conflict. India is likely to emerge as a significant player in AI, while Europe's prospects appear less promising following Macron's departure. Concerns about weaponized AI suggest the importance of peaceful technological development over military applications. The Leopold Plan (keeping China down while the US develops decisive AI advantage) appears unrealistic and potentially harmful. Current generative AI technology remains insufficient for sophisticated analytical work.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E103: Byrne Hobart on What The First AI Agents Will Do + China, Google Analysis 1:01:16

לפני 26 weeks1:01:16

1:01:16

This week on Upstream, Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg discuss the potential of AI agents in tech support, economic impacts of passive investing, historical financial strategies of Warren Buffett, and the implications of tariffs and technological developments in national wealth. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🤲🏼 GiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable programs to try to find the ways to do the most good for your dollar. GiveWell has now spent over 17 years researching charitable organizations and only directs funding to a few of the HIGHEST-IMPACT opportunities they’ve found. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. (Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout to support our show.) 💥 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: Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co — X / TWITTER: @byrnehobart @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: AI is most effectively being deployed first in customer service where outcomes can be clearly measured and tracked. Return on Equity (ROE) has become less relevant in modern markets where companies can easily raise capital and buy back shares. Google has evolved from being criticized for sitting on cash to making aggressive investments in innovation, as demonstrated by Waymo. Tariffs function as a transfer mechanism from consumers to workers, potentially helping build strategic industries despite some economic inefficiency. While passive investing continues to grow, there will always be a cyclical role for active trading to enable price discovery and market making. Meme coins and app-based stock trading represent newer forms of gambling that might be more socially beneficial than traditional sports betting. A new book reveals Buffett's early investment strategy combined detailed research methods with an evolution from pure value investing to investing in quality companies.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E102: America’s Culture of Winning w/ Alex Karp and Jacob Helberg 29:23

לפני 27 weeks29:23

29:23

Alex Karp, CEO of Palantir, and Jacob Helberg, discuss AI-enabled warfare, the importance of taking clear ethical stances, the evolution of Silicon Valley culture, and the integration of tech innovation into governmental defense systems at the Hill and Valley Forum in Washington, DC. — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🤲🏼 GiveWell spends 50,000 hours every year doing deep-dives into different charitable programs to try to find the ways to do the most good for your dollar. GiveWell has now spent over 17 years researching charitable organizations and only directs funding to a few of the HIGHEST-IMPACT opportunities they’ve found. Visit https://www.givewell.org to find out more or make a donation. (Select PODCAST and enter Econ 102 at checkout to support our show.) 💥 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. — X / TWITTER: @PalantirTech @jacobhelberg @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EPISODE: Alex Karp describes Silicon Valley 1.0 as having built useful things with government while aligning with American values. He characterizes Silicon Valley 2.0 as creating division with wealth concentrated among few people. Alex Karp notes a current emergence of "tech patriots" in venture capital and defense technology sectors. Palantir was the first major company to take action after recent conflicts, with Alex Karp being the first CEO to travel to Ukraine after the war began. The company maintained its stance supporting Israel's right to defend itself after October 7th and held its board meeting in Israel after the attacks. Palantir took on Project Maven after Google dropped it, facing daily protests in Silicon Valley but maintaining its position. Alex Karp views AI development as an arms race and notes that the U.S. has no Chinese, Iranian, or Russian competitors in this space. He emphasizes the urgent need to accelerate the implementation of AI systems in U.S. government operations. American tech companies dominate globally, representing 86% of the top 50 tech companies' market capitalization. Palantir demonstrated its success with a 70% growth rate despite what Karp describes as a "nascent and terrible sales force." Alex Karp attributes American tech success to Calvinist cultural influences that view success positively. He highlights America's unique combination of high transparency and meritocracy in business operations. The American system allows companies to self-define their culture within legal boundaries, unlike in many other countries. He emphasizes how Silicon Valley uniquely tolerates different personalities as long as they deliver results. He criticizes recent pro-Hamas protests at elite universities as contradicting their stated values of anti-discrimination. Karp concludes by calling for more people to speak out against these movements both inside and outside their companies.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E101: Wokeism & Class w/ David Sacks, Trump’s AI Czar [Upstream Archive] 1:14:26

לפני 27 weeks1:14:26

1:14:26

In this 2023 conversation between Erik Torenberg and David Sacks, they discuss David’s new role as Donald Trump's AI and crypto czar, the shift towards censorship and wokeness in Silicon Valley, particularly at companies like PayPal and Twitter, and the broader implications for free speech, public debate, and the future of liberalism. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/e55b5666-67b9-4c2a-8968-943cee9f0466 — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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. — X / TWITTER: @davidsacks @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:34) Discussion of PayPal's evolution and tech industry changes (01:08) Early days of PayPal and free speech values (02:28) The role of ADL and SPLC in tech censorship (03:39) Changes in Silicon Valley's political culture (06:39) Government collusion with tech companies (08:45) Evolution of Silicon Valley's political landscape (13:54) Discussion of institutional capture (17:20) Analysis of democratic capitalism's evolution (22:34) Sponsors: Incogni | Squad (24:20) Discussion of tech monopolies and regulation (28:09) Analysis of section 230 and tech regulation (32:55) Foreign policy evolution and interventionism (37:18) Discussion of institutional reform (42:37) Analysis of tech company management (46:28) Elon Musk's Twitter reforms (50:28) Future of tech industry and political polarization (54:40) Discussion of counter-elite formation (58:50) Solutions for institutional accountability (01:15:48) Wrap-up and closing remarks…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E100: Marc Andreessen: How 2016 Broke My Mental Model of the World 1:51:39

לפני 28 weeks1:51:39

1:51:39

Following Marc’s great discussion with Joe Rogan, we wanted to share our interview with Marc Andreessen, who recounts his intellectual evolution and his quest to discover how the world works from 2016 onwards. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/09f4b7dc-5fa8-4e0e-a2aa-87344c3db84b — 🙏 Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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. — X / Twitter: @pmarca @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:44) Mark's mental model shaken in 2015 (01:55) Historical context and media influence (03:05) Trump's impact and political shifts (04:05) Mark's reading journey to understand politics (05:20) Intellectuals vs. mass movements (06:28) The role of ideas in political change (07:41) Hoffer's theory on mass movements (10:07) Understanding left and right ideologies (10:35) Historical evolution of political ideologies (12:51) Sponsors: Incogni | Squad (15:46) Good intentions and unintended consequences (18:06) Nietzsche's master and slave morality (21:16) Balancing merit and fairness in society (28:37) Historical cycles and economic explanations (32:52) The pendulum of societal change (34:13) Introduction to Burnham's theories (35:03) The managerial revolution (39:19) The principal-agent problem (47:29) Elon Musk and bourgeois capitalism (55:10) The Machiavellians and political power (58:56) Aristocratic and oligarchic rule (59:55) The rise of tech founders (01:00:14) Joining the elite circle (01:01:28) The social and political network (01:02:44) Circulation of elites (01:06:51) Effective altruism and philanthropy (01:13:39) Meritocracy and elite education (01:25:31) Global governance and nationalism (01:27:39) The process of finding answers (01:28:30) The moral imperative of imposing answers (01:28:56) Communism and the intellectual foundation (01:29:30) The oligarchic elite and COVID-19 (01:30:34) The virtues of nationalism (01:35:54) The iron law of oligarchy (01:39:45) The need for a superior elite (01:41:58) The role of competence and unifying ideas (01:49:57) The internet and the current elite (01:50:50) The bill comes due (01:52:40) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E99: This Era’s Inflection Points with Byrne Hobart | DOGE, Elon, OpenAI 58:07

לפני 28 weeks58:07

58:07

This week on Upstream, Byrne Hobart discusses the potential impacts of the Department of Government Efficiency, insights from leaked OpenAI emails, Trump's and Elon Musk's policies and their economic implications, and the future of prediction markets in organizational decision-making. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/279fae71-9087-46b7-a2e6-b6e17d8fdf6b — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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: Byrne’s writing: https://thediff.co — X / TWITTER: @byrnehobart @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E98: Solving America’s Problems with Joe Lonsdale 54:32

לפני 29 weeks54:32

54:32

This week on Upstream, we’re releasing a conversation between Erik Torenberg and Joe Lonsdale, co-founder of Palantir and founder of the Cicero Institute, discusses his solutions for American healthcare, education, crime, homelessness, and inequality, emphasizing the need for accountability and nonpartisan approaches. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/f6eb1f43-6fe9-43cc-a95f-168655056447 — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — SPONSORS: 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 💥 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 — X / TWITTER: @JTLonsdale @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E97: Combining Biology and AI w/ Michael Levin and Dr. Leo Pio Lopez 1:11:00

לפני 29 weeks1:11:00

1:11:00

This week we’re releasing an episode from the Cognitive Revolution, Nathan Labenz interviews Professor Michael Levin and Dr. Leo Pio Lopez about their groundbreaking research integrating multiple biological datasets using advanced AI techniques to predict new disease links, and discusses broader implications for AI in biology and future technologies. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/47dd68fb-1bea-43c0-809e-6a1a32c9cb48 — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess 🙏Help shape our show by taking our quick listener survey at https://bit.ly/TurpentinePulse — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️The Cognitive Revolution Podcast The Cognitive Revolution is a podcast about AI where hosts Nathan Labenz and Erik Torenberg interview the builders on the edge of AI and explore the dramatic shift it will unlock over the next decades. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6yHyok3M3BjqzR0VB5MSyk?si=7357ec31ac424043 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cognitive-revolution-ai-builders-researchers-and/id1669813431 🎙️Unpack Pricing Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg — SPONSORS: 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: Prof. Levin's first appearance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYyGG9xXpPA&t=0s Universal Multilayer Network Embedding Reveals a Causal Link Between GABA Neurotransmitter and Cancer: https://osf.io/preprints/osf/d78wb Collective intelligence: A unifying concept for integrating biology across scales and substrates: https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-06037-4.pdf — X / TWITTER: @drmichaellevin @LPiolopez @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E81: Status, Sacred, and Neglected Truths with Robin Hanson 1:21:29

לפני 37 weeks1:21:29

1:21:29

In this episode of Upstream, Erik Torenberg is joined by economist and futurist Robin Hanson. They dissect the intricacies of human motives, the psychology of status, and the profound impact of self-deception on behavior. Robin shares his revolutionary ideas for reforming academia and his pioneering work on prediction markets and his thoughts on the future of innovation amidst falling fertility rates. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: 💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at Fundrise.com/upstream . Elevate your investment game with Altea by Alts.co. Discover vetted deals in unconventional asset classes, network with captivating individuals, and indulge in exclusive travel experiences. Ready to invest in pro sports teams or film financing? Apply now at www.alts.co/upstream and redefine your investment journey. 💥 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. — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ Dealcraft: Insights from Great Negotiators is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. Apple: https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine 🎙️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 — LINKS: The Elephant in the Brain, Robin Hanson and Kevin Simler https://amzn.asia/d/82WLQX6 Robin Hanson and Agnes Callard’s podcast Minds Almost Meeting https://mindsalmostmeeting.com/ Agnes Callard on Upstream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2g2F0e-LZjM — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (04:25) How Robin developed his theory of the Sacred (07:52)The Sacred binds people together (16:05) Why elites drive innovation (17:43) Sponsor: Dealcraft | Fundrise (19:48) Plebeians, wonks, and plutocrats (36:10) Gossip networks (37:00) Sponsors: Ats | Squad (39:08) Proposal to fix academia (45:31) Falsehoods (01:05:05) Double agents in our minds (01:08:31) What is cringe? (01:12:27) Therapy (01:16:55) How falling fertility will affect innovation (01:23:43) Social change strategies for reviving fertility rates (01:25:05) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E80: Financial Plumbing with Patrick McKenzie and Erik Torenberg 51:28

לפני 38 weeks51:28

51:28

In this episode of Upstream, Erik Torenberg interviews Patrick McKenzie (patio11) about the intricacies of the financial system, focusing on banking, money laundering, and regulatory compliance. They discuss several of Patrick’s essays from Bits About Money. Patrick discusses the three stages of money laundering - placement, layering, and integration - and how the financial system has been deputized to act as law enforcement. The conversation touches on the unintended consequences of strict regulations, including their impact on economic growth and financial inclusion. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: 💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at Fundrise.com/upstream . Elevate your investment game with Altea by Alts.co. Discover vetted deals in unconventional asset classes, network with captivating individuals, and indulge in exclusive travel experiences. Ready to invest in pro sports teams or film financing? Apply now at www.alts.co/upstream and redefine your investment journey. 💥 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. — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ Dealcraft: Insights from Great Negotiators is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. Apple: https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine 🎙️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 — LINKS: Patrick’s Newsletter: https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/ Seeing Like a Bank: https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/archive/seeing-like-a-bank/ KYC and AMI: https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/archive/kyc-and-aml-beyond-the-acronyms/ Money Laundering and AML Compliance: https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/archive/money-laundering-and-aml-compliance/ — FOLLOW ON X/TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @patio11 @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:02) Discussing 'Seeing Like a State' and big tech (03:10) Big tech's competence and failures (07:20) AI and centralized systems (09:23) Crypto vs. AI: political implications (10:58) Sponsors: Dealcraft | Fundrise (13:03) Banking systems and customer service (14:28) Structural issues in banking (22:41) Future of banking and customer service (25:14) Regulatory risks and compliance in banking (28:21) The harsh realities of financial decisions (29:05) Geopolitical conflicts and financial institutions (29:53) The role of banks in delivering bad news (31:32) Sponsors: Alts | Squad (33:41) Understanding KYC and AML regulations (37:35) Complexities of money laundering (44:42) The burden of compliance on financial institutions (51:14) Balancing financial services and crime interdiction (53:52) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E79: How Civilizations Cycle & Collapse | Samo Burja and Rudyard Lynch 56:38

לפני 38 weeks56:38

56:38

This week on Upstream, 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/ — SPONSORS: 💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at Fundrise.com/upstream . 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. 💥 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. — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja 🎙️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 🎙️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. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-wont-last-with-keith-rabois-kevin-ryan-logan/id1765665937 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast — LINKS: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Whatifalthist YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/Whatifalthist — FOLLOW ON X/TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @whatifalthist @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Intro (01:00) A deep dive into civilizational differences (03:06) The influence of Abrahamic religions (07:38) Classical vs. modern western civilization (12:16) The rise and fall of civilizations (16:54) Literacy and its impact on societies (20:25) Sponsors: Fundrise | Brave (22:43) Pre-modern Feminism (27:28) Modern civilization and its roots (36:20) Sponsor: Squad (37:29) Debt slavery and social breakdown (42:58) The future of religion and technology (54:37) Obscure civilizations and their impact (59:21) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E78: Fertility, Healthy Humans, and Ending Genetic Disease w/ Noor Siddiqui, CEO of Orchid 1:05:43

לפני 39 weeks1:05:43

1:05:43

Erik Torenberg is joined by Noor Siddiqui, founder and CEO of Orchid, to explore groundbreaking advancements in reproductive technology, especially the world's first whole genome embryo screening. They dive into genome sequencing, IVF, and the ethical implications of these technologies, highlighting their potential to significantly reduce the incidence of major diseases. Noor shares her journey of bringing Orchid's innovative solutions from research to market, along with the importance of polygenic scores and the evolving societal views on reproductive tech. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: 💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at Fundrise.com/upstream . 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. 💥 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. — 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 🎙️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 — LINKS: Orchid: https://www.orchidhealth.com/ — FOLLOW: X / TWITTER: @noor_siddiqui_ (Noor) @OrchidInc (Orchid) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Intro (01:20) What is Orchid? (04:07) Genome sequencing for embryos: What Orchid has accomplished (06:53) The breakthrough that enabled Orchid's genome sequencing (08:25) The impact and significance of the polygenic risk score (11:48) What is IVF (15:11) Sponsors: Fundrise | Brave (17:22) Concerns and stigmas around reproductive technology (24:19 On the Gattaca future where parents create perfect children (26:02) Moral panic around longevity (28:41) Anything that can improve things can be used in very hostile ways (31:37) What are the norms around having kids going to be 30-40 years from now (35:02) Sponsor: Squad (36:12) Noor's thoughts on declining fertility rates (41:33) Matchmaking and dating (47:38) Is the decline of men a real thing? (49:31) Increasing fertility rates, moving the culture, and the negative effects of fertility collapse (1:06:56) Trying out Orchid and how the test works (1:08:11) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E77: Academic Fraud & the Spiritual Quest for Truth | Live Players w/ Samo Burja and Ben Landau-Taylor 57:30

לפני 39 weeks57:30

57:30

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://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: 💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at https://fundrise.com/upstream/ . 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. 💥 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. — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players with Samo Burja. The "Live Players" podcast is where Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg chart the key individuals shaping our future from first principles. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1 🎙️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: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765665937 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2HwSNeVLL1MXy0RjFPyOSz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThisWontLastpodcast 🎙️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. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj — 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/ — TIMESTAMPS: (0:00) Intro (2:22) Ben’s article: "The Academic Culture of Fraud" (4:26) Examples of fraudulent studies and researchers (Sylvain Lesné case) (6:21) Incentives and cultural factors enabling fraud (8:24) Historical context and modern academia (11:36) Scientific fraud and its consequences (13:38) Intellectual authority and legitimacy (19:50) Fundrise & Brave Ads (28:50) External pressure on academia (30:53) Role of journalism and other institutions in exposing academic fraud (33:47) The need for external oversight in academia (34:13) The complex relationship between the government and academia (36:14) Proposals for scientific integrity (39:03) Squad Ad (42:59) Challenges in science and bureaucracy (46:42) Nonprofit solutions for scientific fraud (52:33) Venture capital & scientific integrity (57:12) Bismarck Analysis and its work in strategic research & consulting (1:00:04) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E76: "The CEO is Always Responsible” | This Won’t Last w/ Logan Bartlett, Zach Weinberg, Kevin Ryan, and Keith Rabois 1:24:25

לפני 40 weeks1:24:25

1:24:25

This week on Upstream, we’re dropping the first episode of Logan Bartlett, Keith Rabois, Kevin Ryan, and Zach Weinberg's newest podcast This Won’t Last. The show is an unfiltered backchannel where they unpack the hype cycles in venture, startup culture, and business. In this episode they discuss Paul Graham’s essay "Founder Mode", AI valuations, the state of the venture market, and free speech concerns with Telegram and TikTok. — 🔥 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 — SPONSORS 💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at http://fundrise.com/upstream . 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. 💥 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 High Output Management by Andy Grove https://www.amazon.com/High-Output-Management-Andrew-Grove/dp/0679762884/ Keith Rabois' lecture notes from 2013: How to Operate https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fQHLK1aIBs Tesla vs Edison: The Last Days of Night: A Novel by Graham Moore https://www.amazon.com/Last-Days-Night-Novel/dp/0812988922 Disruptive Innovation by Clayton M. Christensen https://hbr.org/2015/12/what-is-disruptive-innovation The Success Equation: Untangling Skill and Luck in Business, Sports, and Investing by Michael J. Mauboussin https://www.amazon.com/Success-Equation-Untangling-Business-Investing/dp/1422184234 Dark Wire by Joseph Cox https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Wire-Incredible-Largest-Operation/dp/1541702697 On railroads: Engines That Move Markets by Alistair Nairn https://www.amazon.com/Engines-That-Markets-Alisdair-Nairn/dp/0857195999/ The Kremlin has entered your chat https://www.wired.com/story/the-kremlin-has-entered-the-chat/ The Logan Bartlett Show https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCugS0jD5IAdoqzjaNYzns7w — TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Intro (02:20) Show origins (03:34) Kevin comes back from Burning Man (05:17) Paul Graham's Founder Mode, founder mode intuitive Keith, Pierre Lamond anecdote (07:57) Keith's response to kernel of Founder Mode, Andy Grove High Output Management (09:26) Zach asks what's unique about Founder Mode and Keith clarifies (10:10) Manager vs. Founder (13:55) Founder moral authority (15:57) Investing in founder driven CEOs (19:42) OCI | WorkOS Ads (21:57) State of venture markets (24:26) Driverless car future (30:39) Revenue quality in Al valuations (34:55) Squad Ad (37:18) New technology being disruptive or helpful for incumbents (40:01) Al in Biotech (43:03) Al impacting fund AUM (46:48) Al as the transistor (47:39) Hurdle to return Al CapEx (48:49) Unrealized Capital Gains Tax (51:45) Sweden's tax vs Norway and corporation tax rates (59:13) Medicare and Social Security, beneficial tax policies and misleading life expectancy stats (1:05:33) Lina Khan, Antitrust effect on tech industry (1:14:26) Perplexity shocking Google (1:16:48) Pavel Durov and Russia's Influence in Telegram (1:21:04) Not using TikTok & Telegram, risk in capital in Chinese companies (1:26:44) Closing…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E75: The Future of AI-Enabled Companies with Omar Shams, CEO of Mutable AI 1:04:43

לפני 40 weeks1:04:43

1:04:43

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 structures. This episode was recorded for Turpentine’s show The Riff. Check it out for more like this: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: turpentinenetwork.co — MORE 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: 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. 💥 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: Byrne Hobart’s writing: https://thediff.co Omar Sham’s piece: https://blog.mutable.ai/p/the-ai-organization-part-i — FOLLOW ON X: @byrnehobart (Byrne) @smahsramo (Omar) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:22) Historical context of technological adoption (04:47) The Al Organization (07:15) Economic theories and Al (13:00) Capitalism vs. Communism (17:01) Sponsors: Brave | Squad (19:10) Role of Al in future economies (20:32) Al's impact on company sizes (25:50) Al and political influence (31:27) Effect of Al on legal services (33:35) Complexity of GDP and human preferences (43:36) Future of Work and Al Integration (56:03) Al adoption in various sectors (01:05:39) Outro…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E74: Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei Talks Scaling Laws, AI Arms Races, and Radical Abundance 59:39

לפני 41 weeks59:39

59:39

Erik Torenberg and Noah Smith are joined by Dario Amodei, CEO and Co-founder of Anthropic. Dario talks about the economics of AI development, the comparative advantage of AI companies like Anthropic, AI safety, and his stance on California's SB 1047 bill. They also discuss the impacts of AI on global power dynamics, competition between the US and China, and inequality in an AI-powered world. This episode was recorded this week on Turpentine’s show Econ 102. Check it out for more like this: https://open.spotify.com/show/6q7Gn5lP8TTtBPuV1NJSGs?si=8fab4d65ddf5422a — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: turpentinenetwork.co — MORE 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 https://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. 💥 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: Anthropic: https://www.anthropic.com/ Noahpinion: https://www.noahpinion.blog/ — FOLLOW ON X: @noahpinion @eriktorenberg @anthropicAI @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (04:23) Dario's intellectual evolution (06:37) Is Google the Bell Labs of Al? (10:07) Economic moats in Al (12:35) Scaling hypothesis and Al's future (17:05) National security and Al (19:04) Leopold Aschenbrenner's essay (20:33) Al's impact on business models (26:30) Noah's big thesis (29:32) Sponsors: Babbel | Brave (31:58) Al arms races? (36:17) Al's impact on labor and skill distribution (40:41) Sponsor: Squad (44:35) Future of Al and a hyperscaling world (41:42) A vision of radical abundance (49:55) Al safety and inequality (54:06) The SB 1047 debate (58:56) Rabbit alignment problem (01:01:25) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E73: Brian Armstrong on Crypto in 2024, Politics, and Economic Freedom 56:48

לפני 42 weeks56:48

56:48

Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, joins Erik Torenberg, Dan Romero, and Antonio Garcia Martinez on Moment of Zen in August 2024 to talk about the company's evolution and the broader crypto landscape. Armstrong discusses Coinbase's focus on product development, their efforts in Washington D.C., why he listens to Balaji Srinivasan, and strategies for increasing global crypto adoption. Armstrong also touches on his venture into biotech with New Limit, the changing media landscape, and the future of economic freedom through decentralized technologies. -- 🔥 Apply to join over 400 Founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj -- SPONSORS: 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. 🌐 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 https://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. -- 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 -- LINKS: Base: https://www.base.org/ Coinbase Developer Platform: https://cdp.coinbase.com/ New Limit: https://www.newlimit.com/ Farcaster: https://www.farcaster.xyz/ Stand With Crypto: https://standwithcrypto.org -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:28) Brian's Current Focus Areas at Coinbase (03:10) Coinbase's Move Towards Decentralization (05:09) Coinbase's Approach to Innovation (10:36) Thoughts on Mass Market Crypto Adoption (15:01) Sponsor: Babbel | Brave (17:44) Crypto's Implications Beyond Payments (23:54) Experiences with Crypto Regulation in DC (29:14) Sponsor: Squad (30:42) Coinbase's Marketing Strategy (34:09) Measuring Economic Freedom and Crypto Adoption (43:08) Origins of New Limit Biotech Company (50:12) Challenges of Shifting from Crypto to Biotech (52:58) Reflections on Dan Romero's Contributions to Coinbase (55:18) Thoughts on Balaji Srinivasan (56:34) Balaji's Insights on Media Landscape (59:24) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E72: Eoghan McCabe on San Francisco, Tech Leadership, and Optimistic Media 49:17

לפני 43 weeks49:17

49:17

In this episode of Upstream, Erik Torenberg sits down with Eoghan McCabe who opens up about his journey entering Silicon Valley, leading Intercom, shifting company culture, and becoming politically engaged. This episode offers a frank look at the complexities of building and scaling a tech company, coming back from personal and professional defeat, and what it will take — politically — to empower the next generation of techno-optimist builders. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj — 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: 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. 🌐 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 https://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. 🛠️ Building an enterprise-ready SaaS app? WorkOS has got you covered with easy-to-integrate APIs for SAML, SCIM, and more. Join top startups like Vercel, Perplexity, Jasper & Webflow in powering your app with WorkOS. Enjoy a free tier for up to 1M users! Start now at https://bit.ly/WorkOS-TCR — FOLLOW ON X: @eriktorenberg @eoghan — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:48) San Francisco's tech scene (02:11) Moving to San Francisco (03:32) Challenges and changes in San Francisco (06:57) Political dynamics and tech's role (11:43) Sponsors: WorkOS | Brave (14:08) Intercom's journey and leadership challenges (20:02) Reinventing Intercom (22:10) Resetting company culture and values (24:49) Implementing performance management systems (28:33) Sponsors: Babbel | Squad (30:54) Dealing with setbacks and personal growth (32:49) The importance of therapy and self-care (35:55) Reflections on failure and growth (38:58) Eoghan's journey from apolitical to politically engaged (40:45) Views on capitalism, freedom, and the Western world (48:11) Navigating political discussions in the tech industry (50:27) Eoghan’s Vision for more positive tech media (51:02) Importance of inspiring young builders and innovators (53:16) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E71: Marc Andreessen on Higher Education and Tech Culture 27:54

לפני 44 weeks27:54

27:54

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 personal anecdotes about his college experience and emphasizes the need for tech and internet-based educational models to educational models to evolve and meet global demand. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj — 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: 💥 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. 🌐 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 https://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. — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (02:37) Erik on lifelong learning (04:48) Challenges facing traditional higher education (08:34) Marc Andreessen’s college experience (12:31) Sponsors: Squad | Babbel | Brave (16:20) Alternative education models (18:57) MOOCs, Lambda and lifelong education (25:52) Indian education system vs. US education system (31:15) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E70: Katherine Boyle on Religion, Journalism, and Polarization 53:31

לפני 45 weeks53:31

53:31

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 gap, the emergence of digital faith, and the decline of traditional religious affiliations. Katherine also shares her insights on the media landscape discussing the challenges and opportunities in subscription-based journalism and the potential for startups in both media and religion. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ 1 to 100 | Hypergrowth Companies Worth Joining Every week we sit down with the founder of a hyper-growth company you should consider joining. Our goal is to give you the inside story behind breakout, early stage companies potentially worth betting your career on. This season, discover how the founders of Modal Labs, Clay, Mercor, and more built their products, cultures, and companies. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70NOWtWDY995C8qDqojxGw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762756034 - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj — SPONSORS: 💥 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. 🌐 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 https://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: Silicon Valley has digitized everything but religion. Will that change? - https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2020/05/21/silicon-valley-has-digitized-everything-religion-will-that-change/ Pew Research Forum : https://www.pewresearch.org/ In U.S., Decline of Christianity Continues at Rapid Pace - https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2019/10/17/in-u-s-decline-of-christianity-continues-at-rapid-pace/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:26) Katherine’s Article on the Washington Post About Religion and Technology (02:47) The Decline of Religious Affiliation in the US and Europe (04:27) Polarization and Secularization (07:55) Media's Role in Polarization (11:26) SPONSORS: Squad | Babbel (14:12) The New York Times Controversy (21:56) The Role of Independent Journalists (23:41) The Fairness Doctrine and Media Fragmentation (27:25) Subscription Models in Journalism (32:11) The Evolution of Media (35:10) SPONSOR: Brave (45:59) Corporations and Political Stances (49:32) Billionaires and Media Ownership (51:34) Investing in Media and Religion Startups (55:19) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E69: Balaji Srinivasan on the Rise of the Tech Counter Elites 1:38:05

לפני 46 weeks1:38:05

1:38:05

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 "America First". They explore tech's influence on politics, ideological shifts, and international dynamics affecting global economics and policies. Balaji also provides a critical analysis of movements like the January 6th riots and contemplates the future of democracy. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj -- RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ 1 to 100 | Hypergrowth Companies Worth Joining Every week we sit down with the founder of a hyper-growth company you should consider joining. Our goal is to give you the inside story behind breakout, early stage companies potentially worth betting your career on. This season, discover how the founders of Modal Labs, Clay, Mercor, and more built their products, cultures, and companies. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70NOWtWDY995C8qDqojxGw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762756034 - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj — SPONSORS: 💥 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. 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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 https://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. — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:29) The Rise of the Tech Counter Elite (06:15) Global Influence and the Tech Center (12:49) The Tech Counter Elite vs. Traditional Elites (19:10) Democratic Party's Internal Struggles (27:13) SPONSORS: Squad | beehiiv (37:31) Conspiracy Theories and Political Divides (39:19) SPONSORS: Babbel | Brave (41:51) Meta Organisms and Human Coordination (51:26) Media Manipulation and Political Narratives (01:10:56) Economic and Political Shifts (01:37:04) Economic Collapse and Future Predictions (01:40:05) Conclusion and Final Thoughts…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E68: Tyler Cowen on Talent, the Importance of Stamina, and Predicting Success 51:52

לפני 47 weeks51:52

51:52

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 strategies for assessing raw talent, recognizing late bloomers, and fostering an environment conducive to high achievers. They also cover the importance of understanding founder compatibility, building strong peer groups, and the role of mentorship in talent development. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj -- RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️ 1 to 100 | Hypergrowth Companies Worth Joining Every week we sit down with the founder of a hyper-growth company you should consider joining. Our goal is to give you the inside story behind breakout, early stage companies potentially worth betting your career on. This season, discover how the founders of Modal Labs, Clay, Mercor, and more built their products, cultures, and companies. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70NOWtWDY995C8qDqojxGw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1762756034 - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj – SPONSORS: 💥 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. 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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 https://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: Talent: How to Identify Energizers, Creatives, and Winners Around the World - https://www.amazon.com/Talent-Identify-Energizers-Creatives-Winners/dp/1250275814 — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (02:07) The Genesis of Tyler Cowen's Book 'Talent' (06:33) The Role of Peer Endorsement (11:01) Super Fans and High Achievers (13:19) Impact of Public Fame and Risk Aversion Among Young People (15:12) SPONSORS: Squad | beehiiv (17:40) Choosing the Right Hierarchies (20:12) Scaling Apprenticeships (29:33) Commercial Break: Babbel Language Learning (30:58) SPONSORS: Babbel | Brave (31:57) Wishlist Topics for Future Research (40:42) Organizing the World's Ambition (47:56) The Future of Emergent Ventures (51:14) Closing Thoughts and Future Projects…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E67: A Deep Dive on René Girard with David Gornoski 1:19:12

לפני 48 weeks1:19:12

1:19:12

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 influence of Christianity on society, exploring how the anthropological impact of Jesus could transform personal and socio-political conflicts. David also provides a unique perspective on the evolution of ancient sacrifices and mythologies, juxtaposing them with modern societal issues. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj – SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | BABBEL | SQUAD 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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 https://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. — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:51) René Girard and His Impact (03:44) The Political Implications of Girard's Ideas (06:39) Understanding Mimetic Desire (13:54) SPONSORS: Babbel | Beehiiv (16:32) Scapegoating in Society (25:43) SPONSOR: Squad (27:06) Modern Examples of Scapegoating (43:01) The Inhumane System and Hidden Scapegoats (44:26) The Power of Mercy-Driven Solutions (45:57) Mimetic Rivalry and Political Power (49:29) Challenging Groupthink in Science and Healthcare (53:08) The Role of Jesus in Social Justice and Politics (56:04) The Consequences of Sacrificial Politics (01:08:39) Anthropology, Religion, and Future Technologies (01:13:12) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E96: Rudyard Lynch and Samo Burja Talk The Left’s Future and Problems with Modernity 57:43

לפני 30 weeks57:43

57:43

Today on Upstream, Rudyard Lynch and Samo Burja discuss the aftermath of the U.S. presidential election, the decline of French influence in Africa, the psychology of modernity, and the potential future of free versus controlled internet. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/d3195f8d-9dc3-4891-83d6-3354a83efbe9 — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️Live Players Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=01ed191c74264f55 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivePlayerswithSamoBurja 🎙️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 🎙️Unpack Pricing Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg — SPONSORS: 🕵️‍♂️Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code UPSTREAM at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/upstream 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ Whatifalthist YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/Whatifalthist — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @whatifalthist @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E95: Trump’s New Under Secretary of Defense for Research & Engineering on Growing Uber | Emil Michael on Growing Uber | Emil Michael 52:32

לפני 30 weeks52:32

52:32

Emil Michael, formerly the Chief Business Officer of Uber, talked to Erik Torenberg and Jesse Genet about the most intense moments during Uber's meteoric rise. Its been reported that he's on the short list of Trump's picks for US Secretary of Transportation. For full shownotes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/f213f7ab-3627-4d15-b151-0238f9ebd159 — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Unpack Pricing Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg — SPONSORS: 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentin e is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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. — X / TWITTER: @jessegenet (Jesse) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @emilmichael (Emil) @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E94: Best of: AGI | Dario Amodei / Balaji Srinivasan / Marc Andreessen / Samo Burja / Michael Levin 1:12:17

לפני 31 weeks1:12:17

1:12:17

This week, we’re featuring discussions with Dario Amodei, Balaji Srinivasan, Marc Andreessen, Michael Levin, and Samo Burja on AGI scaling laws, AI safety, and AI development, exploring themes such as the evolution of AI, economic implications, and philosophical aspects of intelligence. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/9192a95f-b467-47c1-9de0-827cae992d6b — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Unpack Pricing Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg — SPONSORS: 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E93: How Trump and Elon Could Rebuild the US Government 52:41

לפני 31 weeks52:41

52:41

In this episode of Upstream, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss how Trump's victory signals a new alliance between right-wing politics and tech industry leaders like Elon Musk while exploring the challenges and opportunities of reforming government institutions through technological innovation. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/e4d3405e-6c8a-42ce-93f1-72caf85da775 — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Unpack Pricing - Dive into the dark arts of SaaS pricing with Metronome CEO Scott Woody and tech leaders. Learn how strategic pricing drives explosive revenue growth in today's biggest companies like Snowflake, Cockroach Labs, Dropbox and more. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1765716600 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/38DK3W1Fq1xxQalhDSueFg — SPONSORS: 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: Bismark Analysis: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ — X / TWITTER: @samoburja @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia —…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E92: Curtis Yarvin’s Pre-Election Advice to Elon Musk 1:37:48

לפני 32 weeks1:37:48

1:37:48

In this episode, Erik and Yarvin discuss media, power, and what Elon should do with Twitter. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/b9c0012c-979b-441e-9fb3-6394bef6a7ad — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️Moment of Zen Every week, Erik Torenberg, Dan Romero, Antonio Garcia Martinez and frequent special guests discuss what's happening in technology, business, politics, and beyond. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15KYOzvDzAQvqX0z0SpHEJ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moment-of-zen/id1661672738 — SPONSORS: 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: Curtis Yarvin's Writing: https://graymirror.substack.com/ — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg (Erik) @curtis_yarvin (Curtis) @TurpentineMedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E91: Why We Do Philosophy w/ Agnes Callard 1:18:22

לפני 32 weeks1:18:22

1:18:22

In this episode, Erik sits down with Agnes Callard, a philosopher and essayist who specializes in ancient philosophy, ethics, and Socratic communication. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/cee0a35b-4a10-4c3a-a988-7d9b3d7b7db4 — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — SPONSORS: 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators Explore the art of high-stakes negotiations through fascinating stories and practical insights from world-renowned dealmakers and diplomats in Dealcraft: Insights from Great Negotiators, hosted by Harvard Business School professor Jim Sebenius. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NdYGg0SgCwgBNMk7EHnB6 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dealcraft-insights-from-great-negotiators/id1723095052 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🛍️ Shopify is the world's leading e-commerce platform, offering a market-leading checkout system Shoppay and exclusive AI apps. Nobody does selling better than Shopify. Get a $1 per month trial at https://shopify.com/cognitive 💥 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. — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @AgnesCallard @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E90: Elites, Institutions, and Trump with Richard Hanania 1:16:16

לפני 33 weeks1:16:16

1:16:16

Richard Hanania joins Erik Torenberg to discuss his upcoming book on elite human capital, the future of American politics, and his evolving views on culture war issues. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/af273f63-9f1b-49e1-8fed-28296237498b — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️Moment of Zen Every week, Erik Torenberg, Dan Romero, Antonio Garcia Martinez and frequent special guests discuss what's happening in technology, business, politics, and beyond. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15KYOzvDzAQvqX0z0SpHEJ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moment-of-zen/id1661672738 — SPONSORS: 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 🛍️ Shopify is the world's leading e-commerce platform, offering a market-leading checkout system Shoppay and exclusive AI apps. Nobody does selling better than Shopify. Get a $1 per month trial at https://shopify.com/cognitive 💥 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: Richard’s newsletter: https://www.richardhanania.com/ — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @RichardHanania @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E89: Economics as a Science w/ Noah Smith 42:58

לפני 33 weeks42:58

42:58

Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg tackle the shift in economic research from empirical studies to "big think" theories, critically examine Acemoglu's work on institutions and AI's impact on jobs, and debate the future of economics as a science. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/d1548747-43db-4b71-b0a8-af285d3deafd — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ECON 102 W/ NOAH SMITH Keeping econ entertaining - Noahpinion author Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg break down business news and politics every week. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1696419056 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6q7Gn5lP8TTtBPuV1NJSGs — SPONSORS: 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators Explore the art of high-stakes negotiations through fascinating stories and practical insights from world-renowned dealmakers and diplomats in Dealcraft: Insights from Great Negotiators, hosted by Harvard Business School professor Jim Sebenius. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NdYGg0SgCwgBNMk7EHnB6 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dealcraft-insights-from-great-negotiators/id1723095052 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: Noahpinion: https://www.noahpinion.blog/ Why Nations Fail: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Why_Nations_Fail — X / TWITTER: @noahpinion @eriktorenberg @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E88: The Fertility Apocalypse w/ Samo Burja 1:00:12

לפני 34 weeks1:00:12

1:00:12

This week on Upstream, Erik Torenberg and Samo Burja explore the global demographic crisis, examining plummeting fertility rates worldwide and their potentially catastrophic implications for humanity's future. For full show notes, visit: https://highlightai.com/share/0d2557ac-2da6-4087-b6b4-b55f326b47fd — 📰Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ @LivePlayerswithSamoBurja Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg provide analysis of the news and case studies of Live Players, as well as key institutions and technologies that make up the global power landscape. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-players-with-samo-burja-and-erik-torenberg/id1718925188 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5fbMTkHBnom1JIBWYNVBK1?si=707931ed48da4437 — SPONSORS: 🎙️ Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. Subscribe on all platofrms: https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: 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/ — X / TWITTER: @eriktorenberg @samoburja @turpentinemedia…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E87: Embodied Minds and Cognitive Agents with Dr. Michael Levin 1:22:42

לפני 34 weeks1:22:42

1:22:42

In this episode, Dr. Michael Levin, Distinguished Professor of Biology at Tufts University, joins Nathan Labenz of The Cognitive Revolution Podcast to discuss embodied minds, his research into limb regeneration and collective intelligence, cognitive light cones, and much more. Dr. Levin and the Levin Lab work at the intersection of biology, artificial life, bioengineering, synthetic morphology, and cognitive science. Nathan just recorded a second episode with Michael Levin and Leo Pio Lopez here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0PsvToTZVtZkdTemV6ntUk?si=85e4614f079a4fcd — 📰 Be notified early when Turpentine's drops new publication: https://www.turpentine.co/exclusiveaccess — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️The Cognitive Revolution Podcast The Cognitive Revolution is a podcast about AI where hosts Nathan Labenz and Erik Torenberg interview the builders on the edge of AI and explore the dramatic shift it will unlock over the next decades. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6yHyok3M3BjqzR0VB5MSyk?si=7357ec31ac424043 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-cognitive-revolution-ai-builders-researchers-and/id1669813431 — SPONSORS: 🎙️ Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. Subscribe on all platofrms: https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine 📝 Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: The Levin Lab and Dr. Michael Levin’s research: https://drmichaellevin.org/resources/ Dr Michael Levin’s blog: https://thoughtforms.life/about/ Tufts University Faculty Profile: https://as.tufts.edu/biology/people/faculty/michael-levin Michael Levin @ Wyss Institute: https://wyss.harvard.edu/team/associate-faculty/michael-levin-ph-d/ Dr. Levin’s Research on Limb Regeneration: https://news.uchicago.edu/how-bioelectricity-could-regrow-limbs-and-organs — X / TWITTER: @labenz (Nathan) @drmichaellevin (Michael) @CogRev_Podcast @TurpentineMedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (04:50) Xenobots, anthrobots and the other creatures created by Mike Levin (08:50) Bioelectric memory rewriting (14:09) Sponsors: Dealcraft | Notion (16:17) The difficulty of conducting simulations, which involve running forward passes to predict and alter electrical patterns (20:38) The concept of backpropagation and mode switching in AI models (23:12) Why humans do not regenerate their limbs (37:10) Sponsor: Squad (38:19) Learning from small and biological systems onto the concept of possible emergence (45:01) The criticality of multiple scale questions and would a single scale? (55:40) The concept of the cognitive light cone (59:34) Advice on habits of mind and suggestions for inspiration on the AI side (1:13:19) Mike's suggested directions for the AI developers (1:23:41) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E86: Techno-capitalism with Bryan Johnson 1:02:04

לפני 35 weeks1:02:04

1:02:04

Bryan Johnson joins Antonio Garcia Martinez and Erik Torenberg to discuss the deeper spiritual beliefs behind the "Don't Die" movement in the face of AI and the inadequacy of human clock speed. They cover religions as death cults, long-termism vs engineering your own longevity, and Bryan's recent interview on Tucker Carlson. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: 🎙️ Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators is the brand new weekly podcast that features interviews with world’s greatest dealmakers and diplomats, including Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Blackstone CEO Steve Schwarzman, and music industry super-lawyer John Branca, on their most challenging negotiations. Each episode, host Jim Sebenius (Harvard Business School professor and renowned negotiation expert) relates fascinating deal stories and distills useful insights for listeners to apply in their toughest deals and disputes. Subscribe on all platofrms: https://link.chtbl.com/3CG3TbHY?sid=Turpentine 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: Bryan Johnson on Tucker Carlson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gr4E0jEjQMM&t=0s Bryan Johnson's Blueprint/ Don't Die: https://protocol.bryanjohnson.com/DONT-DIE-by-Zero (Book recommendation) The Postmortal by Drew Magary: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10673576-the-postmortal — X / TWITTER: @bryan_johnson (Bryan) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @agm.eth (Antonio) @moz_podcast (Moment of Zen) @TurpentineMedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:44) Bryan Johnson's long-term perspective (02:07) The intersection of technology and longevity (06:31) The concept of the network state (07:59) Sponsors: Dealcraft | Notion (14:38) AI as the steward of knowledge (18:18) Philosophical implications of AI and longevity (35:14) The future of AI and human culture (35:49) Rabbinic rulings and AI (36:10) Sponsor: Squad (37:18) Debating the impact of AI on society (38:40) The speed of change and societal adaptation (40:28) Existential risks and AI (43:23) Human resilience in crisis (44:43) The philosophy of 'Don't Die' (55:21) The role of birth rates in society (57:31) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E85: Analyzing Everything with Byrne Hobart and Patrick McKenzie 1:25:18

לפני 35 weeks1:25:18

1:25:18

This week on Upstream, we’re releasing a conversation between Patrick McKenzie and Byrne Hobart where they navigate the compelling terrains of in-app purchases and restaurant economics. They dive into the monetization strategies of video games and the influence of food delivery platforms like DoorDash on pricing and menu designs and explore the bridge between finance, technology, and human behavior through airport currency exchange models and the emerging role of AI in economic data processing. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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. — RECOMMENDED PODCASTS: 🎙️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/3Mos4VE3figVXleHDqfXO H Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complex-systems-with-patrick-mckenzie-patio11/id1753399812 🎙️The Riff with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg Investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rANlV54GCARLgMOtpkzKt?si=fa34868d46b94584 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-riff-with-byrne-hobart-and-erik-torenberg/id1716646486 — LINKS: Bits About Money: https://www.bitsaboutmoney.com/ The Diff: https://thediff.co/ — X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/byrnehobart https://twitter.com/patio11 https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:05) The economics of in-app purchases (04:45) Understanding consumer behavior in gaming (07:52) The role of high spenders in the gaming industry (20:48) Bespoke software and high-end customization (24:14) Sponsors: Notion | Squad (28:04) The evolution of restaurant websites (35:27) The future of delivery apps and restaurant economics (43:39) The economics of portion sizes (45:24) Restaurant groups and concepts (48:44) The role of certainty in dining (49:09) Business meals and social signals (51:18) The evolution of fast food (55:03) The tech cafeteria phenomenon (01:02:43) The power of written records (01:06:31) Exploring ai and memory (01:13:58) The future of search and ai (01:25:10) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E84: Let’s Fix Social Media with Jonathan Haidt 56:43

לפני 36 weeks56:43

56:43

In this episode of Upstream, Erik Torenberg sits in with social psychologist Jonathan Haidt to discuss his book, 'The Anxious Generation.' They dive into the severe impact of social media on youth mental health and explore Jonathan's recommendations for smartphone and social media usage among teens. They discuss the broader implications for democracy and the political divide, focusing on how these issues are intertwined with the tech industry. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: 📝Notion offers powerful workflow and automation templates, perfect for streamlining processes and laying the groundwork for AI-driven automation. With Notion AI, you can search across thousands of documents from various platforms, generating highly relevant analysis and content tailored just for you - try it for free at notion.com/upstreampod 💥 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: Jonathan's newsletter: https://www.afterbabel.com/ The Anxious Generation website: https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/ (Book) The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness: https://www.amazon.com/Anxious-Generation-Rewiring-Childhood-Epidemic/dp/0593655036 — X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/JonHaidt https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:07) Evolution of Jonathan's work: from moral psychology to 'The Anxious Generation' (02:21) The impact of social media on teen mental health (04:15) The tragedy of overprotection and underprotection (07:37) Pushback and debates on social media's impact (12:48) The moral panic argument and its flaws (17:48) Sponsors: Notion | Squad (24:34) The role of algorithms and social media dynamics (27:33) Liberal vs. conservative responses to social media (28:47) Exploring After Babel (29:03) The rise of anxiety and depression: a data-driven analysis (29:19) Gender, politics, and mental health: a closer look (31:20) The role of religion and community in mental health (32:00) Parenting styles and their impact on youth (32:39) The political implications of mental health trends (33:21) Smartphone recommendations for a healthier childhood (34:21) The broader impact of smartphones on society (35:02) Schools and the loneliness epidemic (41:08) The role of tech companies in youth well-being (42:27) Addressing criticisms and misconceptions (46:25) The importance of design over content in social media (56:09) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E83: How Patty McCord Built Netflix’s Culture 1:02:41

לפני 36 weeks1:02:41

1:02:41

This week on Upstream, former Netflix HR executive Patty McCord sits down with Nolan Church and Kelli Dragovich to dive deep into the creation and impact of Netflix's renowned culture deck, hailed as a pivotal document in Silicon Valley. Patty shares the evolution of the deck over 10 years with Netflix's management team, the challenges of scaling a rapidly growing company, and the importance of building high-performance teams. They discuss the intricacies of leadership, feedback, and the evolving workplace culture, post-pandemic. Patty also offers a candid look at HR's role in nurturing dynamic work environments. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators Explore the art of high-stakes negotiations through fascinating stories and practical insights from world-renowned dealmakers and diplomats in Dealcraft: Insights from Great Negotiators, hosted by Harvard Business School professor Jim Sebenius. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NdYGg0SgCwgBNMk7EHnB6 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dealcraft-insights-from-great-negotiators/id1723095052 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at Fundrise.com/upstream . Elevate your investment game with Altea by Alts.co. Discover vetted deals in unconventional asset classes, network with captivating individuals, and indulge in exclusive travel experiences. Ready to invest in pro sports teams or film financing? Apply now at www.alts.co/upstream and redefine your investment journey. 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. — RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️HR Heretics with Nolan Church and Kelli Dragovich What will it take to construct the next generation of incredible businesses – and where can people leaders have the most business impact? Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1WML9AfadzaH9WCR4HHqbZ?si=c40b0dd176c64e43 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hr-heretics-how-cpos-chros-founders-and-boards-build/id1712407491 — LINKS: HR Heretics Newsletter: https://hrheretics.substack.com/ Netflix Culture Deck: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/culture-1798664/1798664 Powerful by Patty McCord: https://pattymccord.com/book/ — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:47)The true story behind Netflix’s culture deck (02:36) High Performance cultures actually take 4-5 years to pull off (05:07) Why releasing the culture deck changed Netflix’s hiring immediately (06:56) What to do when employees are averse to change and delivering effective feedback (13:43) Dealcraft & Fundrise Ads (15:47) Why execs need to get used to short tenures (18:18) If you’re successful your company will change (20:40) Retention and the truth we need to tell employees about career pathing (22:15) How Reed Hastings hired Patty McCord (25:54) How HR officers can get a seat at the table (29:32) The P&L is the most important HR metric (31:26) Are HR leaders getting soft? (33:47) Alts & Squad Ads (35:36) What Patty would tell her younger self (37:16) Why an HR officer is a business leader, not a business partner (39:47) Fixing equal pay and compensation strategy (41:43) Why HR keeps doing stupid stuff and needs to abandon best practices (46:25) What HR can learn from product managers (50:59) Compartmentalization and terminations (53:27) If Patty rewrote her book, she would change the chapter about relationships at work (54:37) Why HR people invite inappropriate therapist-style relationships and why having arguments at work should be normalized (01:02:43) Does Patty miss being in the arena? (01:05:11)The portions of the workforce most impacted right now…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E82: America’s Future with Palmer Luckey 1:07:08

לפני 37 weeks1:07:08

1:07:08

This week on Upstream, we revisit a 2023 conversation between Jacob Helberg, Delian Asparouhov, Christian Garrett and Palmer Luckey, founder of Anduril Industries and Oculus VR where they discuss the intersection of Silicon Valley and U.S. defense technology. They tackle the challenges of defense tech innovation, the influence of Chinese technology, and the necessity for strategic tech independence. They also covered bio-engineered defense systems, AI-powered military applications, and space militarization, emphasizing the need for strategic autonomy and meritocratic practices in technology. — 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://www.turpentinenetwork.co/ — SPONSORS: 🎙️Dealcraft | Insights from Great Negotiators Explore the art of high-stakes negotiations through fascinating stories and practical insights from world-renowned dealmakers and diplomats in Dealcraft: Insights from Great Negotiators, hosted by Harvard Business School professor Jim Sebenius. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1NdYGg0SgCwgBNMk7EHnB6 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dealcraft-insights-from-great-negotiators/id1723095052 💡 Level up your portfolio with access to pre-IPO companies via the Fundrise Innovation Fund. Access a $125M+ fund of cutting edge tech companies including AI frontrunners, now available to individual investors. Start your journey at Fundrise.com/upstream . Elevate your investment game with Altea by Alts.co. Discover vetted deals in unconventional asset classes, network with captivating individuals, and indulge in exclusive travel experiences. Ready to invest in pro sports teams or film financing? Apply now at www.alts.co/upstream and redefine your investment journey. 💥 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: The Hill & Valley Forum 2024: https://www.thehillandvalleyforum.com/ Anduril Industries: https://www.anduril.com/ — FOLLOW ON X/TWITTER: @PalmerLuckey @jacobhelberg @zebulgar @CGarrett_15 @turpentinemedia — TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (02:20) Shifting dynamics between the government and Silicon Valley since Palmer started Anduril Industries (06:40) Biggest factors contributing to new demand for defense technology (08:05) Evolving reaction of tech investors and talent to defense technology (13:16) Working with the U.S. Department of Defense (19:00) Sponsors: Dealcraft | Fundrise (20:12) Exporting strategic technology to China: patents, AI, sensor fusion (23:32) How can more tech companies compete for DoD contracts? (26:01) Lobbying (27:32) Building Anduril Industries on first principles (31:06) Banning Chinese hardware and software (like TikTok) (39:51) Sponsors: Alts | Squad (43:04) Can the US pull off a second Cold War victory with China? (47:24) Immigration reform and supply chain disruption (56:37) Palmer’s picks for the most impactful strategic technology on the horizon (01:09:35) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E66: Noah Smith on 2024 Election Strategy, American Civil Service, and Cash Benefits 55:04

לפני 49 weeks55:04

55:04

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 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." 🐝 Head to https://beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" 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 -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | BABBEL | SQUAD 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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 https://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. -- 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 -- FOLLOW ON X: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Noahpinion (Noah) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine)…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E65: Bret Weinstein on Evolutionary Biology, Markets, Moral Progress, and More 1:11:15

לפני 50 weeks1:11:15

1:11:15

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% off your first three months. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 🎙️ Second Opinion - A new podcast for health-tech insiders from Christina Farr of the Second Opinion newsletter. Join Christina Farr, Luba Greenwood, and Ash Zenooz every week as they challenge industry experts with tough questions about the best bets in health-tech. Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1759267211 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A8NwQE976s32zdBbZw6bv - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj - SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | BABBEL | SQUAD 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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 https://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. -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:27) Bret Weinstein's Background and Career (04:37) The Concept of Trade-Offs in Evolution (06:21) Implications of Evolutionary Trade-Offs (10:03) The Fourth Frontier and Human History (11:05) Understanding Evolutionary Rules and Their Broader Impact (16:08) The Lek Paradox and Biological Puzzles (18:52) Sponsor: Babbel | beehiiv (23:41) Market Dynamics and Economic Trade-Offs (32:40) Sponsor: Squad (37:53) The Metaphor of Fitness Landscapes in Evolutionary Biology (38:47) Civilization's Trade-offs and Sustainability (39:37) The Concept of Game B (41:56) Revolutionary Change Without Revolution (44:03) The Role of Technology in Civilization (45:44) Exploring Game B Examples (47:39) Challenges and Opportunities for Game B (50:30) Moral Progress (57:00) Shamans vs. Priests and the Importance of Valley Crossing (01:01:20) Human Adaptation and Evolution (01:04:39) The Role of Jealousy and Evolutionary Instincts (01:06:08) Debates with Prominent Thinkers (01:11:42) Evolutionary Biology and the Future of Governance (01:14:13) Wrap -- FOLLOW ON X: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/BretWeinstein (Bret) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine)…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E64: Richard Hanania on Trump's Genius, Antisemitism, and Election Predictions 1:08:59

לפני 51 weeks1:08:59

1:08:59

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 to https://beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. The conversation also covers broader societal issues like the impact of religion, American Jews' political tendencies, and the strengths and weaknesses of America's socio-economic systems, and reflects on Elon Musk's political involvement and the rise of conspiratorial thinking in modern politics. 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 - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | BABBEL | SQUAD 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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 https://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. -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:19) Silicon Valley's Surprising Support for Trump (01:20) Silicon Valley's Shift in Political Climate (03:32) Richard's Political Evolution and Disillusionment (04:27) Conservative and Liberal Ideologies (09:03) Human Capital and Political Dynamics (14:08) Sponsor: Squad | beehiiv | Babbel (14:16) Religion's Role in Society (35:25) Historical Context of Anti-Semitism (36:12) Comparing Prejudices: Gypsies, Asians, and Religious Differences (36:58) Rationalism vs. Conflict Theory (38:00) The Role of Villainy in Political Narratives (39:16) Conspiracies and Enlightenment Values (41:30) The Impact of Conspiratorial Thinking (49:43) Jewish Intellectual Influence (52:09) DEI and Meritocracy in Silicon Valley (53:56) America's Resilience and Future Challenges (56:07) Immigration Policies: US vs. Europe (1:01:44) Future of Political Parties Post-Biden and Trump (1:07:27) Wrap -- FOLLOW ON X: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/RichardHanania (Richard) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine)…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E63: Balaji Srinivasan and Glen Weyl on Decentralized Governance, Politics, and History 1:15:44

לפני 1 year1:15:44

1:15:44

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://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 - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | BABBEL | SQUAD 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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. -- Listen to the 10X Capital Podcast: https://10xcapitalpodcast.com/ -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:53) RadicalxChange (02:20) Common ground and divergences (05:19) Role of choice and community (06:59) Voice vs. Exit (10:06) Future of governance and identity (16:52) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Babbel | Squad (19:25) Complexity of social systems (25:20) Social inequality and drug war (39:40) Technocracy and its implications (46:44) Economic models and social relations (56:34) Changes on property law (56:41) Quadratic voting and finance (01:01:21) Limitations of technology in the next century (01:04:19) Future of nation states and governance (01:10:53) Technocrats, empires, and incentives (01:15:07) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E62: Mike Solana on Thinking Freely and What Tech Means for Culture 1:07:15

לפני 1 year1:07:15

1:07:15

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 conversation was recorded orginally for Village Global's Venture Stories. 🔥 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 - 🎙️ 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. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SQUAD 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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) @micsolana (Mike) @foundersfund @TurpentineMedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:46) The Ethos of Founders Fund (01:37) Mike's Journey to Founders Fund (01:59) The Seasteading Institute and Anarcho-Capitalism (03:19) Evolution of Founders Fund (06:39) Hereticon: A Conference for Unorthodox Thinkers (11:46) Anatomy of Next: A Vision for the Future (13:42) Perception of Silicon Valley and Media (16:10) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Squad (18:44) Capitalism, Freedom, and Individualism (26:00) Technology and Society (33:39) A Journey Through Political Ideologies (34:50) The Power of Belief and Free Market Capitalism (36:06) Debating Nuclear Energy and Environmental Concerns (39:22) Rebranding Longevity and the Death Meme (40:43) The Future of AR, VR, and AI (45:21) Exploring Space and the UFO Phenomenon (50:13) Silicon Valley's Political Influence and Local Governance (56:02) Envisioning a Post-Scarcity World (58:25) The Culture of Trauma and Personal Responsibility (1:01:22) The Culture War and Anti-American Sentiment (1:09:10) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E61: Noah Smith on Wokeness, Right Wing Muckrakers, and Class vs Identity 1:00:46

לפני 1 year1:00:46

1:00:46

Todays episode features a conversation between Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discussing the recent angry posts on X from David Austin Walsh, a history postdoc at Yale, and what this controversy says about elite overproduction in the US. They also cover the the rise of right-wing muckrakers, discuss what the conservative movement needs now, and who they consider the smartest thinkers today are — on the left and the right. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Econ 102 with Noah Smith Every week, Noah Smith, economist and Noahpinion writer break down current events through the lens of economics — while keeping econ entertaining. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6q7Gn5lP8TTtBPuV1NJSGs Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/econ-102-with-noah-smith-and-erik-torenberg/id1696419056 -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SQUAD 🐝 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 "UPSTREAM" 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. -- TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Intro (01:05) Twitter Controversy: David Austin Walsh (04:30) Elite Overproduction and Academia (08:29) Affirmative Action and Racial Disparities (14:32) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Squad (17:07) Elite overproduction’s implications for politics and academia (22:29) Right-Wing muckrakers and progressive institutions (32:12) Misconceptions about Barack Obama (32:50) Mike Solana, Christopher Rufo, and other voices on the Right (35:33) Evolution of progressive and conservative labels (40:20) American Roots of Wokeness (56:53) The Future of Conservatism (1:01:41) Wrap 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E60: AI in the Techno-Economic War with China with Vinod Khosla, Todd Young, and Jacob Helberg 20:02

לפני 1 year20:02

20:02

In this episode of Upstream, we're publishing a session recorded live at The Hill & Valley Forum in May 2024 hosted by Jacob Helberg, and featuring Vinod Khosla of Khosla Ventures, and Senator Todd Young (R-IN). Khosla and Young dive straight into the most pressing national security concerns regarding the threat of AI. In this techno-economic race, the winner will have economic and military control over Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America. AI is a technology capable of that much influence is described as being comparable to an atomic bomb. If AI is viewed through the lens of an atomic bomb, should the U.S. be forming a new Manhattan Project? Would you open source the Manhattan Project? 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj The HIll & Valley Podcast is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Catch all the 2024 Forum sessions and subscribe: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39s4MCyt1pOTQ8FjOAS4mi Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hill-valley/id1692653857 -- 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 . -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV |. SQUAD 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. 🐝 Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" 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. -- TIMESTAMPS (00:00) The Urgency of AI in the Techno-Economic War (01:13) Exploring AI's Role in Modern Warfare and Global Influence (08:33) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Squad (11:34) The Global AI Supply Chain and National Security Concerns (17:23) Open Source vs. Closed Model Debate in AI Development (22:26) Closing Remarks…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E59: Bryan Caplan on Housing Regulation, Fertility, and Crime 1:07:11

לפני 1 year1:07:11

1:07:11

This week on Upstream, Erik sits down with Bryan Caplan to discuss his new book about housing regulation. The conversation touches on political economy, fertility, crime, and more. beehiiv: Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" 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 -- 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 PODCAST: The AI Daily Brief If you’re looking for an edge to stay up to date on everything AI, subscribe to Nathaniel Whittemore's AI Daily Brief which delivers tight episodes covering all things AI from legislation to new technologies to the philosophical debates around generalized intelligence. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7gKwwMLFLc6RmjmRpbMtEO Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-daily-brief-formerly-the-ai-breakdown/id1680633614 -- SPONSORS: 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. 🐝 Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:36) Why write "Build, Baby, Build"? (01:51) The value of graphic novels (05:00) Potential benefits of housing deregulation (11:50) Gentrification (15:20) Sponsor: Beehiiv (16:25) The best case in favor of housing regulation (21:40) Fertility rates (29:00) The political economy of housing regulation (35:59) The mechanics of housing regulation (45:51) Challenges of communicating in politics (51:22) Economic thought over time (56:13) Differences in beliefs between generations (58:48) Crime prevention (1:03:00) Bryan's next book (1:08:05) Wrap -- LINKS: Bryan's book: https://www.amazon.com/Build-Baby-Science-Housing-Regulation/dp/1952223415 Bryan's Blog: https://www.betonit.ai/ -- X / TWITTER: https://x.com/bryan_caplan (Bryan) https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) -- For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E58: Jonathan Haidt on Finally Fixing Social Media and Picking All the Cherries 55:13

לפני 1 year55:13

55:13

This week on Upstream, Erik sits down with Jonathan Haidt to discuss his book The Anxious generation. The conversation covers the effects of social media on teen mental health, culture, politics, education, and more. beehiiv: Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. -- 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 PODCAST: The AI Daily Brief If you’re looking for an edge to stay up to date on everything AI, subscribe to Nathaniel Whittemore's AI Daily Brief which delivers tight episodes covering all things AI from legislation to new technologies to the philosophical debates around generalized intelligence. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7gKwwMLFLc6RmjmRpbMtEO Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-daily-brief-formerly-the-ai-breakdown/id1680633614 -- SPONSORS: 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. 🐝 Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. -- 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 -- X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/JonHaidt (Jonathan) https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) -- For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E57: Noah Smith Analyzes Economies: USA, China, Japan, Russia, India, Korea, & More 59:13

לפני 1 year59:13

59:13

This week on Upstream, we're releasing an episode from Erik's podcast with Noah Smith, Econ 102. Noah breaks down the economies of the USA, China, Japan, Russia, India, Korea, and more. 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. For more like this, watch part 2 on Econ 102: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/52nuQvRmuTT7S6ilJoXDYr?si=bf6722824bd64bcf Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/analyzing-economies-england-france-germany-poland-turkey/id1696419056?i=1000650616668 -- 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 PODCAST: The AI Daily Brief If you’re looking for an edge to stay up to date on everything AI, subscribe to Nathaniel Whittemore's AI Daily Brief which delivers tight episodes covering all things AI from legislation to new technologies to the philosophical debates around generalized intelligence. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7gKwwMLFLc6RmjmRpbMtEO Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-daily-brief-formerly-the-ai-breakdown/id1680633614 -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SQUAD 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. 🐝 Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 💥 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. -- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:33) U.S. Economy: Trends and Concerns (08:31) Transition to China Economy: Massive Property Bust (15:58) Sponsor: beehiiv | Squad (22:06) Segue to Japan Economy: Key Hub of the Electronics Manufacturing (30:41) Korea Economic Struggles (33:35) South Korea's Technological Capabilities and International Relations (34:44) Exploring Taiwan's Economy and Challenges (36:52) Indonesia's Manufacturing Shift (38:25) Vietnam's Economic Strategy and Development Needs (41:01) India's Poverty Reduction and Infrastructure Investments (44:56) Pakistan Economic Mismanagement (49:08) Philippines: Underrated Investment Destination (50:03) Transition to Australia: The Progressive Utopia (52:32) Russia Economy at War (60:29) Wrap -- X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Noahpinion (Noah) https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) -- For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E56: Brian Chau on Spreading Informed AI Optimism 1:22:31

לפני 1 year1:22:31

1:22:31

This week on Upstream, Nathan Labenz of The Cognitive Revolution podcast and Brian Chau, a machine learning engineer who recently founded the Alliance for the Future, talk about Brian's efforts in Washington, D.C. to influence AI policy based on informed AI optimism. After their conversation, Nathan and Erik chat about the AI landscape. 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. -- 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 PODCAST: The AI Daily Brief If you’re looking for an edge to stay up to date on everything AI, subscribe to Nathaniel Whittemore's AI Daily Brief which delivers tight episodes covering all things AI from legislation to new technologies to the philosophical debates around generalized intelligence. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7gKwwMLFLc6RmjmRpbMtEO Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-daily-brief-formerly-the-ai-breakdown/id1680633614 -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SQUAD 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. 🐝 Head to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 💥 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. -- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple -- Timestamps (00:00) Intro (00:42) Unpacking AI Optimism and Policy Perspectives (01:22) Exploring the Breadth of AI and Its Economic Implications (05:23) Debunking AI Doomsday Predictions (14:56) Sponsors: BeeHiiv | Squad (25:53) Navigating the Near-Term AI Landscape and Government Modernization (41:30) Exploring AI Regulation and Executive Orders (43:55) The Impact of AI on Startups and Economic Viability (45:36) AI Development and Regulatory Challenges (48:40) The Debate on AI Accountability and Regulation (59:02) Open Sourcing AI Models: Risks and Regulations (1:07:06) The Future of AI: Ethical, Social, and Regulatory Considerations (1:14:41) Reflections on AI Safety and the Path Forward -- Alliance for the Future: https://www.affuture.org/ Brian's article on research progress in AI: https://www.affuture.org/research/3-diminishing/ -- X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/psychosort (Brian) https://twitter.com/labenz (Nathan) https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) -- For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E55: Why China's Universities Will Become Harvard 51:29

לפני 1 year51:29

51:29

This week on Upstream, we’re releasing an episode from Turpentine’s show Live Players with Samo Burja. Erik and Samo discuss China’s universities and the future of China’s elites. 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. -- 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 PODCAST: The AI Daily Brief If you’re looking for an edge to stay up to date on everything AI, subscribe to Nathaniel Whittemore's AI Daily Brief which delivers tight episodes covering all things AI from legislation to new technologies to the philosophical debates around generalized intelligence. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7gKwwMLFLc6RmjmRpbMtEO Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-daily-brief-formerly-the-ai-breakdown/id1680633614 -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SQUAD 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 💥 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. -- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple -- X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/SamoBurja (Samo) https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) - Episode Preview (00:00:57) - Universities as an example of US-China parallel evolution (00:02:53) - Academia during The Cultural Revolution (00:04:00) - The elite Chinese universities (00:06:00) - Signaling theory of education (00:06:30) - What the increase in educated leaders means for China’s ruling class (00:07:52) - China as America’s mirror (00:08:30) - China’s “woke” (00:11:29) - How Xi wants China to not fail in the same way the Soviets did (00:12:50) - Crackdown on university students (00:14:46) - Sponsor: Squad | Turpentine (00:15:00) - Rise of student activism in the US (00:19:05) - The translation of regional/ethnic inequalities into ideological ones (00:22:30) - The political ideological paradox generates an opportunity to organize young people (00:24:30) - Role of gender in divergent politics and the East Asian “woke” (00:27:12) - Chinese feminism (00:34:58) - The formation of elites in US and China (00:36:40) - Materialist focused education in China vs legal focused education in US (00:39:47) - Printing university degrees is like printing money by devaluing degrees (00:40:19) - Fight over Harvard Extension School (00:42:20) - Will American universities have as much power in the next 10 years as they do now? (00:46:05) - What positive and negative changes will China see in the near future? (00:47:00) - Silicon Valley in China (00:49:09) - The shift in leadership from businessmen to academia in China For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E54: Naval Ravikant and Balaji Srinivasan on Why History Points to Crypto 1:04:00

לפני 1 year1:04:00

1:04:00

This episode was initially recorded before a live audience in 2018. Erik talks with Naval Ravikant and Balaji Srinivasan about the history of money and centralization and why crypto has the potential to fulfill the promise of the internet. 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. -- 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 PODCAST: The AI Daily Brief If you’re looking for an edge to stay up to date on everything AI, subscribe to Nathaniel Whittemore's AI Daily Brief which delivers tight episodes covering all things AI from legislation to new technologies to the philosophical debates around generalized intelligence. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7gKwwMLFLc6RmjmRpbMtEO Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-daily-brief-formerly-the-ai-breakdown/id1680633614 -- SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | SQUAD 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Squad:💥 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. -- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:30) Decentralization and Blockchain: A Deep Dive with Naval Ravikant and Balaji Srinivasan (06:22) Personal Journeys into the World of Cryptocurrency (08:27) Debating Bitcoin vs. Blockchain: Perspectives and Predictions (12:22) Sponsors: Squad | Turpentine (14:33) The Social and Economic Implications of Blockchain Technology (19:55) Blockchain Beyond Money: Envisioning Future Applications (22:43) Crypto as a Social Phenomenon: Tribalism and Governance (28:10) Envisioning a Decentralized Future: Microeconomics and Global Impact (31:36) The Irony of Missing Out: Venture Capitalists and Karma (36:02) The Global Impact of Blockchain on Identity and Ownership (36:54) Navigating Regulations in a Decentralized Economy (38:29)The Role of Crypto in Redefining Wealth Distribution (40:05) Balaji and Naval's Vision (46:48) What Do Failure Models Look Like? (51:43) How Blockchain Can Provide New Career Opportunities, Not Just In Silicon Valley (53:33) The Potential and Challenges of Emerging Technologies (54:55) Identity in a Blockchain World (58:23) On Blockchain Intersecting With Other Emerging Technologies (59:57) What Types Of Players Are Going To Be The Big Winners And Losers? (1:00:56) Empowering the Next Generation of Builders (1:04:04) Visionary Ideas for Changing the World (1:05:41) Wrap -- X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/naval (Naval) https://twitter.com/balajis (Balaji) https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) -- For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co Music license: OYOCYNQ0XUH22PB8…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E53: Nathan Labenz and Noah Smith on What AI Actually Means for the Economy 1:11:13

לפני 1 year1:11:13

1:11:13

This week on Upstream, Erik is joined by Nathan Labenz and Noah Smith for a deep dive on how AI will impact job markets, the social contract, and the role of the government. 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. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: The AI Daily Brief If you’re looking for an edge to stay up to date on everything AI, subscribe to Nathaniel Whittemore's AI Daily Brief which delivers tight episodes covering all things AI from legislation to new technologies to the philosophical debates around generalized intelligence. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7gKwwMLFLc6RmjmRpbMtEO Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ai-daily-brief-formerly-the-ai-breakdown/id1680633614 -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SQUAD | BRAVE 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Squad:💥 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. Brave: 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. -- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:50) AI and the Future of Employment (03:57) The Intersection of AI, Robotics, and Biotech (05:00) Economic Disruption (06:40) Future of Jobs in an AI-Dominated World (08:27) AI's Impact on Economy (10:34) Pessimism Surrounding AI's Economic Impact (12:17) Comparative Advantage in the AI Era (13:50) AI Replacing Human Jobs (19:03) Sponsor: Squad | Brave (21:24) New Social Contract in the AI Era (34:38) Human Wages in an AI-Dominated Economy (39:36) Impact of AI on Job Market (41:45) Fear of AI Taking Over Human Jobs (47:51) Role of Government in AI Development (50:09) Potential Risks and Benefits of AI (53:15) Future of AI and Its Social Impact (58:38) Fear of Totalitarian States and AI (01:03:13) The Need for a Positive Vision for AI (01:11:03) Wrap up -- X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/noahsmith (Noah) https://twitter.com/Labenz (Nathan) https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) -- For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E52: David Friedman on Anarcho-Capitalism, Utilitarianism, and Inequality 1:51:20

לפני 1 year1:51:20

1:51:20

This week on Upstream, Erik is joined by David Friedman for a deep dive on anarcho-capitalism, utilitarianism, and more. To get Brave: Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. -- Recommended Podcast: Company Breakdowns Each episode of Company Breakdowns dives into S-1s and series B-and-beyond companies, interviewing founders and investors to break down the companies. First episode is on Rubrik - which just IPO'd. Coming up this season: Databricks, Reddit + more, Spotify Apple - Autopilot explores the adoption and rollout of AI in the industries that drive the economy and the dynamic founders bringing rapid change to slow-moving industries. From law, to hardware, to aviation, Will Summerlin interviews founders backed by Benchmark, Greylock, and more to learn how they're automating at the frontiers in entrenched industries. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YQZkKHN7EP2yWedAvSxBC?si=18377c69a2804333 Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/autopilot-with-will-summerlin/id1738163836 -- SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BRAVE | SQUAD 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 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. 💥 Access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to choosesquad.com and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist. -- Timestamps: (00:00) Intro (00:46) The Friedman Family's Intellectual Lineage (03:18) Market Failures and Government Intervention (06:11) Privatizating Everything (09:33) The Mechanics of Anarcho-Capitalism (12:47) Why David Isn't a Utilitarianism (16:33) Midroll: Brave | Turpentine (18:19) David's Moral Framework (23:36) Is Global Coordination Possible? (30:46) Privatizing Military and National Defense (32:54) Addressing Poverty in an Anarcho-Capitalist World (35:40) Competitive Dictatorship (40:54) Historical Precedents for Private Law (42:31) The Inefficiency of Governments (44:06) Coordination under Decentralization vs Centralization & Surveillance Capitalism (55:07) Law & Punishment under Anarcho-Capitalism (58:28) The Problems with Restorative Justice (01:07:31) Addressing Common Criticisms of Market Systems (01:14:41) Exploring the Moral Case for Economic Growth (01:16:26) Existential Risks from Global Warming, AI, Nanotech, and Biotech (01:18:49) The Market's Short-Term vs. Long-Term Dilemma (01:20:13) Utilitarian Thought Experiment (01:22:03) Income Sharing Agreements (01:26:20) Equality of Opportunity vs. Outcome (01:30:15) Why Do We Care about Equality? (01:47:40) Anarcho-Capitalism and Crypto (01:51:04) David's Legacy -- LINKS: David's Website: http://www.daviddfriedman.com/ -- X / TWITTER: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg (Erik) https://twitter.com/Upstream__Pod (Upstream) https://twitter.com/TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) -- Upstream is a production from Turpentine Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Eul Jose Lacierda For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E51: How We Build More Housing with Brad Hargreaves & Noah Smith 1:00:33

לפני 1 year1:00:33

1:00:33

In this special roundtable episode, Erik Torenberg is joined by Brad Hargreaves (the founder of Common, co-founder of General Assembly, and writer of Thesis Driven) and Noah Smith (podcast host, economist and writer of Noahpinion). They discuss the future of real estate and housing in America, the impact of regulations, and the potential of new cities. 📖 RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Econ 102 is Noah and Erik's podcast diving into the news, business, culture and society from the lens of economics. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/econ-102-with-noah-smith-and-erik-torenberg/id1696419056 Thesis Driven is a podcast hosted by Brad Hargreaves features conversations with the leading voices at the intersection of real estate, cities, innovation, and the built world. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thesis-driven-leader-series/id1724813949 **These shows are 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 . _ SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BRAVE | SQUAD 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 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. 💥 Access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to choosesquad.com and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist. – Links: Noahpinion’s https://www.noahpinion.blog Thesis Driven https://www.thesisdriven.com/ – X / TWITTER: @bhargreaves (Brad) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @noahpinion (Noah) @TurpentineMedia (Turpentine) – TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Intro (00:28) Understanding Real Estate Economics (01:34) Role of Technology in Real Estate (02:22) 2008 Financial Crisis and Real Estate (06:31) Role of Banks in Real Estate (10:14) Future of Real Estate and Housing (16:01) Sponsor: Brave | Turpentine (17:44) Impact of Regulations (24:51) Real Estate Architecture’s Evolution (29:48) Role of Developers in Real Estate (40:21) Challenges of Building State Capacity (51:53) Potential of New Cities (01:00:33) Success of New Urbanist Towns (01:01:53) Wrap…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E50: Alex Blania on Worldcoin, AGI, and Future Predictions 40:54

לפני 1 year40:54

40:54

This week on Upstream, Erik is joined by Alex Blania, who, with Sam Altman, co-founded Tools for Humanity, the organizarion behind Worldcoin. Erik and Alex go deep on Worldcoin, AGI, and other future tech. To get Brave: Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Sourcery by Molly O'Shea Sourcery by Molly O’Shea brings the conversations founders and investors have behind closed doors into the light. Subscribe for upcoming episodes with: Delian Asparouhov of Founders Fund and Varda Space, and Chris Power of Hadrian. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Ni3Tese9CtZa3oxpCjgTg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SourceryVC -- SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BRAVE | SQUAD 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 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. 💥 Access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to choosesquad.com and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist. -- LINKS: Worldcoin: https://worldcoin.org/ -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:16) WorldCoin: From AI to Cryptocurrency (06:02) Solving the Proof of Identity Problem (10:11) The Orb: A Revolutionary Biometric Device for WorldCoin (12:53) Sponsor - Brave | (13:58) Turpentine Ad (14:36) Addressing Privacy Concerns and Misunderstandings of WorldCoin (15:50) WorldCoin as the Largest Financial Network (17:06) Navigating Controversies and the Future of WorldCoin (20:05) On Building WorldCoin (25:56) Engaging with Governments and the Global Landscape (28:29) Safeguarding WorldCoin and the Influence of Vitalik Buterin (31:10) Partnerships, Lessons from Sam Altman, and AGI's Future (38:06) Exploring Other Game-Changing Technologies (42:14) WrapX / TWITTER: @alexblania (Alex) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- Upstream is a production from Turpentine Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Eul Jose Lacierda…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E49: The Legacy of Effective Altruism with Igor Kurganov 48:41

לפני 1 year48:41

48:41

This week on Upstream, Erik is joined by Igor Kurganov, poker player and founder of Raising for Effective Giving. They discuss similarities between poker and Effective Altruism, the successes and failures of EA, and where EA should go next. To get Brave: Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Investing City The Investing City Podcast helps you improve at investing, business, and life: learn from some of the brightest minds in business such as the CEO of Walmart, Morgan Housel, or billion-dollar fund managers. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7tV2EIrKXXUPxO0jpUaLlX Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-investing-city-podcast/id1448079153 -- SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BRAVE | SQUAD 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 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. 💥 Access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to choosesquad.com and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist. -- LINKS Raising for Effective Giving: https://reg-charity.org/ -- X / TWITTER: @IgorKurganov (Igor) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:01) Math, Poker and Igor’s Journey into Effective Altruism (03:40) The Evolution of Effective Altruism (05:15) Critiques and Challenges of Effective Altruism (08:00) Limitations and Misapplications of Effective Altruism (10:42) Effective Altruism’s Approach to AI Safety and Pandemic Risks (12:54) Igor on Criticisms and Misunderstandings of EA (17:17) Sponsor - Brave (18:19) The Balance between Centralization and Decentralization in Effective Altruism (24:41) Utilizing Philanthropy to Address Market Failure (26:41) Critique of Utilitarianism (29:29) The Influence of Politics in EA (40:13) Appreciating Effective Altruism (42:31) Will EA be Here to Stay? (47:24) Wrap -- 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. Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Eul Jose Lacierda…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E48: Liron Shapira on the Case for Pausing AI 1:04:23

לפני 1 year1:04:23

1:04:23

This week on Upstream, Erik is joined by Liron Shapira to discuss the case against further AI development, why Effective Altruism doesn’t deserve its reputation, and what is misunderstood about nuclear weapons. Upstream is sponsored by Brave: Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHistEvery 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 -- We’re hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik’s personal team on other projects he’s incubating. He’s hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: https://eriktorenberg.com . -- SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BRAVE | SQUAD 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 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. 💥 Access global engineering without the headache and at a fraction of the cost: head to choosesquad.com and mention “Turpentine” to skip the waitlist. -- LINKS Pause AI: https://pauseai.info/ -- X / TWITTER: @liron (Liron) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro and Liron's Background (01:08) Liron's Thoughts on the e/acc Perspective (03:59) Why Liron Doesn't Want AI to Take Over the World (06:02) AI and the Future of Humanity (10:40) AI is An Existential Threat to Humanity (14:58) On Robin Hanson's Grabby Aliens Theory (17:22) Sponsor - Brave (18:20) AI as an Existential Threat: A Debate (23:01) AI and the Potential for Global Coordination (27:03) Liron's Reaction on Vitalik Buterin's Perspective on AI and the Future (31:16) Power Balance in Warfare: Defense vs Offense (32:20) Nuclear Proliferation in Modern Society (38:19) Why There's a Need for a Pause in AI Development (43:57) Is There Evidence of AI Being Bad? (44:57) Liron On George Hotz's Perspective (49:17) Timeframe Between Extinction (50:53) Humans Are Like Housecats Or White Blood Cells (53:11) The Doomer Argument (01:00:00) The Role of Effective Altruism in Society (01:03:12) Wrap -- 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. Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Eul Jose Lacierda For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E47: Rob Henderson on Life in Foster Care, Academia, and Beyond 1:21:18

לפני 1 year1:21:18

1:21:18

This week on Upstream, Erik is joined by Rob Henderson, psychologist and author of the newly released Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class. They discuss dating, cancel culture, luxury beliefs, and more. Upstream is sponsored by Brave: Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: https://eriktorenberg.com . -- SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BRAVE 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 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 Buy Rob's book: https://www.amazon.com/Troubled-Memoir-Foster-Family-Social/dp/1982168536 Rob's Newsletter: https://www.robkhenderson.com/ -- X / TWITTER: @robkhenderson (Rob) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:03) Rob Henderson's unlikely journey from foster care to academia (04:00) The importance of childhood stability (07:48) Upward mobility is not the ultimate goal (11:43) Sponsor | Brave (12:46) How to improve discussions around family and class (18:47) Understanding luxury beliefs (25:06) Why do dumb ideas capture smart people? (31:15) The impact of dating apps on relationships (38:01) How technology will affect relationships and gender dynamics (58:07) The future of higher education (01:10:03) How to improve foster care (01:12:50) Rob's time in the military (01:18:57) Rob's future goals -- 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. Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Michelle Poreh For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E46: Lyn Alden on How Money Works 55:25

לפני 1 year55:25

55:25

This week on Upstream, Erik is joined by Lyn Alden, an investment strategist known for her unique blend of engineering, tech, and finance expertise. They discuss her book Broken Money, macro trends, and her best advice in the face of an uncertain economic future. Upstream is sponsored by Brave: Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign. --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 --- RELATED SHOW: 10x Capital Podcast Check out our show The 10x Capital Podcast with David Weisburd, where David talks to the investors behind the investors: https://10xcapitalpodcast.com/ --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: https://eriktorenberg.com . -- SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BRAVE 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. 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 Buy Lyn's book: https://www.amazon.com/Broken-Money-Financial-System-Failing/dp/B0CG8985FR Lyn's website: https://www.lynalden.com/ -- X / TWITTER: @LynAldenContact (Lyn) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:30) Lynn's book 'Broken Money' (09:19) The rise and fall of monetary orders (14:18) How technology affects money (19:48) Sponsor | Brave (20:51) The effects of a global reserve currency (27:28) The future of the dollar (34:09) Inflation and interest rates (44:42) What are the interesting disagreements about Lyn's ideas? (47:22) The implications of national debt (51:34) What will the effects of Lyn's ideas be? (56:50) Wrap -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Michelle Poreh For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E45: Bayeslord and Nadia Asparouhova on Effective Accelerationism 1:30:40

לפני 1 year1:30:40

1:30:40

On this episode of Upstream, Erik sits down with e/acc founder Bayeslord and writer Nadia Asparouhova to discuss the foundations and future of the e/acc movement. Upstream is sponsored by Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period. --- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 -- Check out Erik's new show Request for Startups featuring a rotating cast of founders and investors sharing their requests for startups they want to exist in the world, and also their stories of navigating the idea maze in different sectors so founders don’t have to reinvent the wheel anymore. The first episode is out now - we cover better dating apps, references as a service, and WeWork for productivity. Watch and Subscribe on Substack: https://requestforstartups.substack.com/p/receipt-based-dating-reference-checks Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/request-for-startups-with-erik-torenberg/id1728659822 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/739L1LR32QI2XyoZlRh5nv -- SPONSOR: 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify - https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg. -- LINKS Bayeslord's and Nadia's article: https://www.piratewires.com/p/ethos-divine-age -- X / TWITTER: @bayeslord @nayafia (Nadia) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (01:40) Understanding the Perception of E/ACC (03:14) The Impact of E/ACC on Tech Culture (05:38) Nadia's Perspective on E/ACC (14:30) Evolution of Tech Culture (16:55) SPONSOR: SHOPIFY (29:55) Influence of Elon Musk on Tech Culture (45:07) Leadership in E/ACC (47:05) Understanding Journalistic Patterns & Social Dynamics (48:36) Impact of Social Media (49:40) Role of AI in Shaping the Future (50:50) Social Impact of Technology: A Critical View (52:44) Dichotomy of Tech: Good or Bad? (53:42) Evolution of Web 2.0 and Its Consequences (55:30) Future of AI and Potential Risks (57:31) Philosophy of E/ACC (01:26:14) The Future of E/ACC: Phase Two and Beyond -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Michelle Poreh For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E44: Tyler Cowen on Harvard, the GOAT Economist, and Ending Stagnation 56:54

לפני 1 year56:54

56:54

On this episode of Upstream, Erik sits down with Tyler Cowen to discuss Harvard, AI, Javier Milei's legacy, the value of non-legibility in talent spotting, and more. Upstream is sponsored by Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- Listen to the 10X Capital Podcast: https://10xcapitalpodcast.com/ -- SPONSOR: 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify - https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- LINKS Read Tyler's new book for free: https://econgoat.ai/ Tyler's blog: https://marginalrevolution.com -- X / TWITTER: @tylercowen (Tyler) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (02:48) Tyler's new book GOAT: Who is the Greatest Economist of all Time and Why Does it Matter? (05:19) Javier Milei and dismantling bureaucracy (08:50) Who is the GOAT economist? (12:29) AI, economic growth, and fertility (16:58) Sponsor | Shopify (18:34) Policies for managing population decline (28:44) Emergent Ventures & talent spotting (31:59) The value of non-legibility (33:25) Predictions about Harvard (35:38) The Future of Higher Education (37:45) How Twitter and Harvard are related (40:22) How to think about group differences (43:43) Bronze Age Pervert on Nietzsche and postliberalism (46:45) Rawls's veil of ignorance (48:19) Tyler on his career and legacy (52:45) The future of the University of Austin (56:58) Wrap -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Michelle Poreh For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E43: Richard Hanania on Wokeness, Israel-Palestine, and the Mythos of the Modern Right 59:15

לפני 1 year59:15

59:15

This week on Upstream, political scientist and writer Ricard Hanania returns to the show. Erik and Richard discuss wokeness, the Israel-Palestine conflict, the mythos of the modern right, Richard's upcoming debate with Curtis Yarvin, and more. Upstream is sponsored by Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- SPONSOR: 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify - https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- LINKS Richard's Substack: https://substack.com/@richardhanania Tickets to Richard's debate with Curtis Yarvin: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/yarvin-vs-hanania-monarchy-vs-democracy-moderated-by-anna-khachiyan-tickets-796276132347 -- X / TWITTER: @RichardHanania (Richard) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (02:31) Wokeness, DEI, and the removal of university presidents (06:44) How the Israel-Palestine conflict is affecting DEI (08:22) American sentiment towards Israel-Palestine (17:09) Sponsor | Shopify (18:46) Richard's foreign policy perspective on Israel-Palestine (23:02) Nietzschean Liberalism (25:39) How much truth can people take? (30:44) Technology as a spiritual north star (32:39) Reactionary feminism (38:34) Male status & birth rates (41:49) How important is IQ? (45:29) How to discuss difficult truths (48:00) Richard's debate with Curtis Yarvin (54:39) Understanding Effective Altruism -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Michelle Poreh For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E42: Erik Torenberg on the Evolution of Media 1:01:31

לפני 1 year1:01:31

1:01:31

This week on Upstream, the tables are turned, and Erik is sitting in the guest seat. We're airing an episode the podcast Where It Happens hosted by Greg Isenberg. Greg and Erik discuss B2B creators, how to find profitable niches, how to monetize media businesses, and more. Upstream is sponsored by Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- SPONSOR: 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify - https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- LINKS Greg's newsletter: https://www.gregisenberg.com/ Greg's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GregIsenberg -- X / TWITTER: @gregisenberg (Greg) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:54) The rise of the B2B creators (04:30) Are podcasts worth investing in? (09:40) How to spot a profitable niche (11:57) Podcast acquisitions and partnerships (15:55) Sponsor | Shopify (19:04) Why media businesses are undermonetized (29:29) Producers are going to overtake Creators (39:31) Is there enough room for B2B creators? (45:15) Businesses that are too good for Venture Capital (52:55) Steal Erik’s free start up ideas -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Michelle Poreh For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E41: Steve Hsu on the Future of Everything 1:05:49

לפני 1 year1:05:49

1:05:49

In this episode of Upstream, Erik sits down with theoretical physicist and startup founder Steve Hsu. They discuss political polarization in academia, the fertility crisis, AI, and more. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 -- SPONSORS: Beehiiv | Shopify 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- LINKS Superfocus: https://superfocus.ai/ Othram: https://othram.com/index.html Manifold: https://www.manifold1.com/ -- X / TWITTER: @hsu_steve (Steve) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (02:21) Political polarization in academia (05:47) The decline of meritocracy in academia (10:00) Why can't academia change? (13:27) Truth-seeking in startups (20:36) Sponsor: Shopify (23:36) The fertility crisis (32:11) AI and labor (41:06) What industries are safe from AI automation? (44:05) AI Safety vs accelerationism (47:51) Understanding the rise of China (58:46) The future of the US/China relationship (01:00:41) How does Steve allocate his time? (01:04:41) Steve's suggestions for underexplored opportunities -- 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 Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Michelle Poreh For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E40: Develop Your Personal Investing Strategy with Itay Vinik 1:20:07

לפני 1 year1:20:07

1:20:07

On today's Upstream, Erik interviews Itay Vinik to get an overview of the markets and current macro environment, learn frameworks for adjusting an investing strategy based on rising or falling interest rates, and debunk common investment myths. They cover the Federal Reserve's role in a globalized economy, discuss the strategies that stabilize markets, and evaluate different asset classes during economic shifts. Upstream is sponsored by Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period. Itay Vinik is the Co-Founder & Chief Investment Officer at Equi ( https://www.equi.com/ ), an alternative investment platform that brings investment strategies to accredited investors. - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 – We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . – SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SHOPIFY 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify’s the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy’s, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you’re selling, Shopify’s got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg – X / TWITTER: @vinikitay @eriktorenberg @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia – TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (04:57) Understanding Alternative Investments (12:21) The Impact of Interest Rates on Investments (14:00) Sponsors: Shopify (17:59) Understanding the Role of the Fed (23:52) Investing Strategies for Different Economic Conditions (33:52) Debunking the Inverse Correlation of Stocks and Bonds (35:44) Stock Market vs. Real Economy (42:24) Predicting a Potential Recession (42:34) The Fed's Track Record and the Possibility of a Rate Hike (44:03) The Consequences of Increasing Rates (44:50) Understanding Quantitative Easing and Tightening (47:10) The Role of the Fed in Money Creation (01:10:19) The Impact of Globalization on the Fed's Decisions (01:13:22) Understanding China's Currency Manipulation (01:14:37) The Debate on Passive vs Active Investing (01:20:09) The Power of Real Estate in Wealth Creation 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E39: Balaji Srinivasan and Nathan Labenz on AI's Future, Human-AI Symbiosis, and AI Control 2:10:55

לפני 1 year2:10:55

2:10:55

On today's Upstream, we're sharing a recent episode where Balaji Srinivasan joins Nathan Labenz to discuss the future of AI: polytheistic AI and AI gods, human-AI symbiosis, and how AI will be controlled. Upstream is sponsored by Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period. This episode is a feed drop of The Cognitive Revolution, where Nathan Labenz and Erik Torenberg interview builders on the edge of AI and explore its dramatic shift over the next decades. Listen and subscribe everywhere you get your podcasts: https://www.cognitiverevolution.ai/ - RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 – SPONSOR : 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all e-commerce in the US. And Shopify’s the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy’s, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one e-commerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you’re selling, Shopify’s got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg – X / TWITTER: @labenz (Nathan) @balajis (Balaji) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod (Upstream) @TurpentineMedia @CogRev_Podcast (Cognitive Revolution) -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (01:41) Exploring the Concept of AI in the Context of Evolution (02:34) Technical Aspects of AI and its Future (05:25) Challenges in AI: Time Varying and Rule Varying Systems (05:54) AI in Practical Utility and Jobs (07:11) AI Progress and Uncertainties in the Near Future (08:17) AI and the Concept of Generative Intelligence (08:25) Adversarial Input (10:36) Sponsor: Shopify (25:11) Offense and Defense (25:48) Sponsor: Shopify (40:49) Impact on Blue America (45:39 AI Regulation and the Concept of Software FDA (48:45) The Future of AI (49:00) The Role of AI in the Tech Industry (50:18) Exploring the Potential of AI Technology (53:57) The Mathematical Constraints of AI (55:23) The Future of AI: Cryptography and Chaos (57:16) The Impact of AI on Human Evolution (57:19) The Practical Difficulties of AI Implementation (01:02:34) The Future of AI: Amplified Intelligence (01:05:11) The Future of AI: Man-Machine Symbiosis (01:09:09) The Future of AI: Polytheistic AI (01:17:53) Amplified Intelligence Revisited (01:29:02) The Future of AI: The Impact on Blue America (01:30:14) AI in Healthcare (01:30:34) The Role of Human Intelligence in AI Development (01:31:24) The Impact of AI on Job Market and Environment (01:32:27) The Role of AI in Robotics and Training (01:33:50) The Actuator Concept in AI (01:35:06) The Impact of AI on Cryptography (01:37:54) Data Analysis (01:41:00) The Role of AI in Bridging Different Modalities (01:45:28) The Future of AI in a Global Context (01:59:56) The Future of AI in a Tribal Perspective (02:04:26) The Future of AI in a Global Perspective…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E38: Holiday Special: Request for Startups 49:34

לפני 1 year49:34

49:34

This week, in a departure from Upstream's usual format, Erik sits downs with friends Nick DeWilde, Sean Linehan, and Justin Mares to exchange startup ideas in a new format called "Request for Startups." Please note that this episode contains some vulgar humor and won't be for everyone. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Live Players with Samo Burja 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. Listen to Live Players: https://link.chtbl.com/liveplayers . -- SPONSOR: 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- X / TWITTER: @jwmares (Justin) @seanlinehan (Sean) @nick_dewilde (Nick) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview (01:25) Intro (02:03) Fake jobs for rich families (06:59) Ending San Fransisco burglaries (10:50) Better prenups (13:13) Brunch x Benihana (15:44) Sponsor: Shopify (19:40) Fit Club (24:40) Justin's story from being a janitor at LA Fitness (26:49) Generative AI applications (37:26) Holistic fertility treatment (42:31) Combining workspaces with other services (44:58) Retraining software engineers (47:15) Quora for people (49:57) Wrap -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Graham Bessellieu For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E37: Noor Siddiqui on embryo screening, the fertility crisis, and parenting 1:07:16

לפני 2 years1:07:16

1:07:16

In this episode, Erik sits down with Noor Siddiqui, founder and CEO of Orchid. They discuss Orchid's recent breakthrough in embryo whole genome sequencing, the fertility crisis, parenting, dating, and more. -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: 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 -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Live Players with Samo Burja 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. Listen to Live Players: https://link.chtbl.com/liveplayers . -- SPONSOR: 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- LINKS Orchid: https://www.orchidhealth.com/ -- X / TWITTER: @noor_siddiqui_ (Noor) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview (01:06) Intro (01:26) What is Orchid? (04:13) Genome sequencing for embryos: What Orchid has accomplished (07:00) The breakthrough that enabled Orchid's genome sequencing (08:32) The impact and significance of the polygenic risk score (11:59) What is IVF (15:19) Sponsors: Shopify (20:04) Concerns and stigmas around reproductive technology (26:10) On the Gattaca future where parents create perfect children (27:54) Moral panic around longevity (30:32) Anything that can improve things can be used in very hostile ways (33:30) What are the norms around having kids going to be 30-40 years from now (36:55) Noor's thoughts on declining fertility rates (42:13) Matchmaking and dating (48:21) Is the decline of men a real thing? (50:20) Increasing fertility rates, moving the culture, and the negative effects of fertility collapse (1:07:37) Trying out Orchid and how the test works (1:09:16) Wrap -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Graham Bessellieu For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E36: Beff Jezos on doxxing, e/acc, and why crypto will save AI 1:28:10

לפני 2 years1:28:10

1:28:10

Beff Jezos, the anonymous co-founder of the effective accelerationism movement (also known as "e/acc") recently had his identity revealed by Forbes reporters. He gives the inside story to Erik Torenberg, Antonio Garcia Martinez, Dan Romero, his e/acc cofounder Bayeslord, and The Cognitive Revolution podcast host Nathan Labenz. Make informed decision for high impact donations with GiveWell, which is offering Upstream listeners donation matching up to $100. To claim your match, go to https://www.givewell.org ➡️ pick “Podcast” and enter "Upstream with Erik Torenberg" at checkout. -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: LIVE PLAYERS 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. Listen and subscribe everywhere you get your podcasts: https://link.chtbl.com/liveplayers . -- SPONSORS: SHOPIFY 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- X / TWITTER: @BasedBeffJezos (Beff) @bayeslord (Bayeslord) @dwr (Dan) @antoniogm (Antonio) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (02:23) The inside story (05:28) How did Beff's identity get revealed by these reporters? (12:27) Why should journalists get to decide who gets to be anon? (16:13) Beff's academic background in quantum computing (18:33) Why Beff started the anon account (20:52) Sponsor: Shopify (22:30) What's next for e/acc (27:37) Overcentralization of AI (29:56) Where the alpha is (35:42) Sponsor: Givewell (42:12) Decels and the rebellion (48:37) Why is big tech so bad & 2024 elections (51:00) AI Leaderboards (53:44) Crypto and AI crossover (58:08) Decentralizing the AI supply chain (01:04:24) Hardware & Extropic technology (01:09:24) Utility of e/acc (01:14:52) What is the e/acc gospel (01:22:20) What is the near term for AI? -- Upstream is a production from Turpentine Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Michelle Poreh For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E35: Samo Burja on Sam Altman, Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and George Soros 57:32

לפני 2 years57:32

57:32

In this episode, Erik sits down with Samo Burja, political scientist and founder of Bismarck Analysis. They discuss Samo's term "live player" and today's live players, including Sam Altman, Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and George Soros. -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- RELATED PODCAST 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. Listen to Live Players: https://link.chtbl.com/liveplayers . -- 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- X / TWITTER: @SamoBurja (Samo) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (01:50) What are "live players?" (05:05) Samo’s worldview (10:35) Reflections on the energy transition (15:35) Sponsor: Shopify (18:40) Sam Altman as a live player (22:25) OpenAI’s culture vs Microsoft’s culture (25:45) Sam Altman vs Elon Musk vs Peter Thiel (30:35) Sponsor: Oracle (32:40) Understanding different perspectives on capitalism (33:45) The role of live players in society (38:05) Can we train live players? (43:20) The evolution of live players (48:10) Philanthropists as live players: Bill Gates, the Kochs, etc (55:50) The paradox of open society advocates -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Graham Bessellieu For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E34: Byrne Hobart on Sam Altman, Meta vs Google, and Effective Altruism 56:49

לפני 2 years56:49

56:49

In this episode, Erik is joined by Byrne Hobart, author of tech and finance newsletter The Diff, to discuss Sam Altman's ousting from OpenAI, Microsoft's role in the story, and the new competitive landscape for AI companies. -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- RELATED PODCAST Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff . -- 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- X / TWITTER: @ByrneHobart (Byrne) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (01:00) Non-obvious thoughts about governance and legal structures (03:45) Could the board have found out something about Sam? (04:40) Tech’s online coordination and choosing sides (06:25) Why haven’t the OpenAI board shared their reasoning? (12:20) Are they going to bring Sam back? (15:10) What should OpenAI’s pivot be? (17:30) Sponsor: Shopify (20:30) Analyzing Microsoft's moves and the sweetheart deal (23:50) Satya's succession plans (27:15) OpenAI's unique governance structure (30:00) Sponsor: Oracle (32:15) Why Byrne is long Microsoft (40:10) What explains Microsoft's turnaround? (42:15) Meta and Google (48:10) Which of these companies Byrne would short: Apple, Amazon, Google, Facebook, Microsoft (50:20) Was this a coup from the Effective Altruism movement? -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Graham Bessellieu For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E33: The Untold History of Nuclear Energy with Packy McCormick and Julia DeWahl 1:01:57

לפני 2 years1:01:57

1:01:57

Today on Upstream we’re dropping a special episode of Age of Miracles which dives into the rise and fall of nuclear power in the 20th century, and what we can learn about pushing nuclear into the 21st century. -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- RELATED PODCAST To hear the next episodes of Age of Miracles, a narrative show that explores the complex industries that will play an important role in creating an abundant future for humanity, subscribe at https://link.chtbl.com/ageofmiracles or check out the series on YouTube; https://www.youtube.com/@age-of-miracles -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff -- 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries.From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg -- X / TWITTER: @packym (Packy) @juliadewahl (Julia) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (00:50) Erik introduces Age of Miracles (03:03) Two narratives of nuclear energy (06:43) Nuclear’s early history and rise (12:26) The start of the fall (15:20) Sponsors: Shopify | Oracle (23:08) Five key factors that led to nuclear’s decline (23:30) Factor #1: the AEC (29:00) Factor #2: good old-fashioned economics (30:30) Sponsor: Shopify (34:21) Factor #3: regulation (46:25) Factor #4: the environmentalists (54:05) Factor #5: the nuclear disasters (57:53) Recap of the historical lessons (1:02:49) Wrap -- 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 . Producer: Sam Kaufman Editor: Graham Bessellieu For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E32: Balaji on SBF and the Israel-Hamas War 1:01:41

לפני 2 years1:01:41

1:01:41

Balaji Srinivasan returns to Upstream for an unfiltered conversation about recent events: SBF's conviction and the conflict in the middle east. -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries.From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff -- X / TWITTER: @balajis (Balaji) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod @turpentinemedia -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (01:20) Why should we still care about the SBF story (05:17) An uncensored Twitter exposed the crimes (08:25) Why the system got an F on SBF (11:30) Why the network succeeded over the state (15:10) Sponsors: Shopify | GiveWell (18:00) Actual crimes vs political crimes (20:00) Did the press coverage force the indictment? (22:00) Why didn’t the state move faster if all the pieces were there? (29:30) Political fallout (30:30) Sponsor: Oracle (40:00) Progressive Muslim alliance (42:40) Pro Middle Eastern tech (47:50) Support for anti-Israel is where support for gay marriage was in 2000s (48:20) TikTok is global public opinion minus India and China (50:35) Should America intervene in the Middle East? (52:30) The six regimes (55:30) War with China (57:00) Retribalization of society 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E31: Sam Lessin on Why We’re Heading into a New Era of Venture 1:07:51

לפני 2 years1:07:51

1:07:51

Erik is joined by Sam Lessin, General Partner at the early-stage VC firm Slow Ventures, essayist, and former VP of Product at Facebook. -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . Vanta: https://www.vanta.com/upstream Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/upstream -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00:00) Episode Preview (00:01:00) On Screenshot Essays, writing, and being OK with being wrong (00:03:54) Sam’s thesis on the factory system of venture capital (00:07:18) What does venture look like when the factory line is over? (00:10:10 Sam’s bearishness on YC and a16z (00:-) What are the best firms going to look like in the future? (00:15:08) Sponsor: GiveWell | Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (00:17:47) The future state of company building and venture (00:19:16 On the fake unicorns in the past decade and what the next 10 years of unicorns might look like (00:23:15) The biggest factors of luck in life and company building (00:24:29) Sam’s thesis on constellation software (00:28:01) Thoughts on the studio model of venture (00:30:20) Team Shares and why that’s Sam’s most bullish investment (00:33:06) Sponsors: Vanta (00:34:31) Why Sam is bullish on crypto (00:39:47) The different models of finance and investing in creators (00:43:11) Sam’s advice for future investors in 2040 (00:46:16) Is the LP landscape going to change significantly? (00:48:10) On consumer social (00:50:20) On VC firms and indexing (00:52:54) Lower variance founders (00:57:16) Kardashians and the future of media / celebrity (00:58:48) Sam on Balaji’s protech and anti-journalist class (00:59:50) What could have made Twitter a $100b company? (1:02:17) How can we represent social capital on the internet? (1:03:48) On the end of capitalism (1:07:24) Slow Ventures today and where they expect to go in the future 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E30: Aaron Ginn on the Moral Idea Maze, the GPU Revolution, and US-China Relations 55:56

לפני 2 years55:56

55:56

Erik Torenberg sits down with Aaron Ginn, the CEO and co-founder of Hydra Host and the co-founder of the Lincoln Network (now Foundation for American Innovation). They discuss tech and politics, US-China relations, the GPU revolution, and foreign policy predictions. Upstream is proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/upstream Upstream is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co – We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . – SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SHOPIFY | MERCURY | VANTA 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . Looking to give your startup a competitive edge? Meet Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Mercury is banking for ambitious companies—a modern partner that can provide you with the tools and resources you need to turn your startup into the best version of itself. It’s software built to help you scale, with safety and stability, when you need to — whether you're a team of two, or a team of 1,000. Join more than 100,000 startups on Mercury, the powerful and intuitive way for ambitious companies to bank. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/upstream – Timestamps: (00:00) Episode Preview (01:55) Aaron's background (07:23) Aaron's journey on his moral idea maze (11:30) Innovation and progress in the human experiment (15:09) Sponsors: Mercury | Vanta (17:15) Can a right wing parallel economy for everything happen? (19:51) NVIDIA versus the public cloud (28:55) Status of GPUs 6 months to a year from now (34:19) Kinetic interaction with China (42:05) GPUs: Foreign policy concerns and predictions (51:20) Comparison of Biden's and Trump's foreign policy – LINKS: Hydra Host: https://hydrahost.com/ Book: The Terrible Truth About Liberals https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Terrible_Truth_About_Liberals – X/ Twitter Aaron @aginnt Erik: @ErikTorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E29: Sense-Making, a Top 1% Information Diet, and Generation Warfare with Michael Guimarin 1:14:22

לפני 2 years1:14:22

1:14:22

Erik Torenberg sits down with Michael Guimarin, a Silicon Valley operator and educator who helps people hone their information diets, to discuss the divide between institutions and networks and how to shift from consensus to resonance. We're proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/upstream Upstream is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . – SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SHOPIFY | MERCURY | VANTA 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . Looking to give your startup a competitive edge? Meet Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Mercury is banking for ambitious companies—a modern partner that can provide you with the tools and resources you need to turn your startup into the best version of itself. It’s software built to help you scale, with safety and stability, when you need to — whether you're a team of two, or a team of 1,000. Join more than 100,000 startups on Mercury, the powerful and intuitive way for ambitious companies to bank. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/upstream – LINKS: Michael's newsletter: https://theinfodiet.com/ (Course is currently sold out) – TWITTER: Michael: @MichaelGuimarin Erik: @ErikTorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod – TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (02:10) How decisionmaking outcomes are based on information inputs (04:40) How we understand reality is defined by generational access to technology (05:45) Economics of distributing information (08:50) Michael Guimarin's approach vs Jordan Hall or Daniel Schlac (10:41) Before Google: Consensus (11:00) After Google: Resonance (13:50) Framework: The four estates (16:35) Sponsors: Mercury | Vanta (18:35) The divide between institutions and networks (21:00) Why humans can't predict step changes (25:00) Painting a future which links authority and responsibility (29:00) Where Michael differs from Balaji on decentralization (33:20) Sponsor: NetSuite (34:25) Shifting from consensus to resonance (36:00) The timeline for resolving these issues is over two generations (40:00) Longevity (45:25) The information diet as a war (48:15) Artificial Intelligence (50:50) Do we concede too easily when we get power over institutions? (01:01:00) A top 1% to the top .001% information diet: emotional mastery (01:05:00) How should you adjust the inputs? (01:07:30) Information trillionaires…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E28: Richard Hanania Returns | Trump, the Sexual Revolution, and Immigration 1:25:05

לפני 2 years1:25:05

1:25:05

Writer and political scientist Richard Hanania is back on Upstream to discuss Trump, Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican establishment, the sexual revolution, immigration, and his ideological differences with Curtis Yarvin. We're proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/upstream Upstream is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co – SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SHOPIFY | MERCURY | VANTA 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . Looking to give your startup a competitive edge? Meet Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Mercury is banking for ambitious companies—a modern partner that can provide you with the tools and resources you need to turn your startup into the best version of itself. It’s software built to help you scale, with safety and stability, when you need to — whether you're a team of two, or a team of 1,000. Join more than 100,000 startups on Mercury, the powerful and intuitive way for ambitious companies to bank. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/upstream – RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff – TWITTER: Richard: @RichardHanania Erik: @ErikTorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod – TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (02:12) Attempted cancellation (05:00) Gender Differences (07:45) Racial Profiling (15:30) Law and Culture: How should conservatives reorient their approach (20:00) Sponsors: Mercury | Vanta (26:15) Richard’s views on dismantling the administrative state (31:00) Are the elites governing the US doing a bad job on public health and law enforcement? (34:15) Sponsor: NetSuite (35:15) Where Richard overlaps with classical liberalism (37:00) How Richard thinks of the Republican establishment (42:35) Richard’s perspective on the recent Bari Weiss debate on the impact of the sexual on women. (48:00) How to increase fertility and the quality of the population (53:00) Richard’s evolution on immigration (58:00) Should a country determine its demographics? (01:02:00) How important is inequality? (01:05:30) Debating Curtis Yarvin (01:16:00) What comes after liberalism – and who cares? (01:21:00) Balaji’s Gray tribe…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E27: Robin Hanson on Elites, Experts, and the Truths We Resist 1:24:58

לפני 2 years1:24:58

1:24:58

Robin Hanson, economist, author ,and futurist, sits down with Erik Torenberg to discuss Robin’s ideas about status, truth, and the obstacles for innovation. Upstream is proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/upstream Upstream is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co – SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SHOPIFY | MERCURY | VANTA 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- Looking to give your startup a competitive edge? Meet Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Mercury is banking for ambitious companies—a modern partner that can provide you with the tools and resources you need to turn your startup into the best version of itself. It’s software built to help you scale, with safety and stability, when you need to — whether you're a team of two, or a team of 1,000. Join more than 100,000 startups on Mercury, the powerful and intuitive way for ambitious companies to bank. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/upstream – RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff – TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (05:38) How Robin developed his theory of the Sacred (09:07)The Sacred binds people together (17:17) Elites (19:00) Sponsors: Mercury | Vanta (37:20) Gossip networks (38:00) Sponsor: NetSuite (39:13) Proposal to fix academia (45:37) Falsehoods (01:05:12) Double agents in our minds (01:08:36) What is cringe? (01:12:31) Therapy (01:17:02) How falling fertility will affect innovation (01:23:49) Social change strategies for reviving fertility rates -- 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 . Producer: Natalie Toren Editor: Graham Bessellieu For inquiries about guests or sponsoring the podcast, please email natalie@turpentine.co…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E26: Ben Horowitz on AI, the Future of Venture Capital, and Wartime VCs 45:19

לפני 2 years45:19

45:19

Ben Horowitz, co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) and one of the most influential venture capitalists of the last decade, sits down with Erik for Turpentine VC. They shed light on how Ben thinks about firm-building and where the future is going. We're proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/upstream -- Subscribe to Turpentine VC to hear upcoming episodes with top VC minds: Alfred Lin of Sequoia, Elad Gil, and partners at Benchmark: https://www.podpage.com/turpentinevc/ -- Join our free newsletter to get Erik's top 3 insights from each episode every week: https://turpentinevc.substack.com/ -- SPONSORS: BEEHIIV | SHOPIFY | MERCURY | VANTA 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- Looking to give your startup a competitive edge? Meet Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Mercury is banking for ambitious companies—a modern partner that can provide you with the tools and resources you need to turn your startup into the best version of itself. It’s software built to help you scale, with safety and stability, when you need to — whether you're a team of two, or a team of 1,000. Join more than 100,000 startups on Mercury, the powerful and intuitive way for ambitious companies to bank. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. -- Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/upstream -- TIMESTAMPS: (01:00) Episode Preview (03:55) Ben on what allows the legendary VC firms to be great for multi-decades (05:05) a16z’s unique product-first, investor-second approach (06:20) YC as a16z’s closest spiritual analog (09:40) Ben on why venture firms should stay private (11:40) How a16z scaled their fund sizes to market opportunities (12:40) Why a16z chose to go bigger than Benchmark or USV on fund size (14:20) “Spreadsheet” VCs vs. people-first VCs (16:00) a16z’s customer-focused strategy (17:28) The firm’s unique approach to governance (17:50) Sponsor: Mercury, Vanta (19:55) Shared economics and centralized control (21:20) Ben’s view on the future of venture (24:00) How Ben thinks about riding trends like AI, crypto, etc. (27:00) a16z’s AI strategy (32:00) Will a16z expand into multi-asset firms like BlackRock? (33:00) How a16z thinks about their LPs differently from other firms (35:28) Sponsor: NetSuite (38:00) Peacetime vs. Wartime VCs -- LINKS: Why Software Is Eating the World: https://a16z.com/why-software-is-eating-the-world/ -- X / TWITTER: @bhorowitz (Ben) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @TurpentineVC…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E25: Jon Askonas on 2nd Order Effects of AI, the Media Ecology of Reality, and Conservatism 1:02:13

לפני 2 years1:02:13

1:02:13

Erik Torenberg sits down with Jon Askonas to look at the impact of disruptive technology in important areas like the media, religion, culture, and politics. Jon is an assistant professor of politics at Catholic University, a senior fellow at the Foundation for American Innovation and a writer for publications like The New Atlantis and Compact. We are proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/upstream -- Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Mercury | Vanta Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- Looking to give your startup a competitive edge? Meet Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Mercury is banking for ambitious companies—a modern partner that can provide you with the tools and resources you need to turn your startup into the best version of itself. It’s software built to help you scale, with safety and stability, when you need to — whether you're a team of two, or a team of 1,000. Join more than 100,000 startups on Mercury, the powerful and intuitive way for ambitious companies to bank. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. -- Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/upstream -- TIMESTAMPS: (01:00) Episode Preview (03:00) Jon’s thesis: The end of consensus reality (04:20) What people have underestimated and overestimated since the 70s (06:00) What comes after the nation state? (07:00) The role of military technology in the next era (09:45) What inputs are most important in determining a country’s dominance (11:00) Countering Bali’s theory of the decline of the US dollar (13:00) What has happened to our consensus reality? (16:49) Sponsors: Mercury, Vanta, and NetSuite (18:50) Social Media is a red herring. The internet itself was the disruptor (21:30) Why solving the problems of social media won’t return the world to sanity (26:20) Fragmentation is a good thing (29:25) 2nd order effects of AI (30:30) E/acc vs EA (32:50) Creating a religion out of AI (40:00) The problem with conservatives and technology (46:25) Conservatives ignoring the culture (52:00) Future of the right? (57:00) How do we make sense of a world where we can’t determine a fact? (59:10) Believing science, experts, and Sam Harris -- X/ TWITTER: Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Jon’s Twitter: @JonAskonas Podcast Twitter: @Upstream__Pod -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E24: Balaji Srinivasan on Social Tribalism, Cloud Cartography, Internet Values 2:11:57

לפני 2 years2:11:57

2:11:57

Balaji Srinivasan joins Erik Torenberg and Moment of Zen co-host Dan Romero to share his new theory of the Tribal Lens, why cognitive territories will gain increasingly more power than land-defined territories, why the US is no longer a beacon in the world, and Balaji strategy to fix San Francisco. We're proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/zen -- Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Mercury | Vanta Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- Looking to give your startup a competitive edge? Meet Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Mercury is banking for ambitious companies—a modern partner that can provide you with the tools and resources you need to turn your startup into the best version of itself. It’s software built to help you scale, with safety and stability, when you need to — whether you're a team of two, or a team of 1,000. Join more than 100,000 startups on Mercury, the powerful and intuitive way for ambitious companies to bank. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. -- Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/zen -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:30) Episode Preview (09:55) Cloud Cartography: If you don't control the cognitive territory. you don't control the lands (14:44) Sponsors: Mercury, NetSuite (18:30) Why people don't take the internet seriously? (23:00) The US is not a nation state (25:10) A civilization state (26:00) Why Americans should learn about India's history / India and the US are converging (33:25) Why a civil war doesn't seem realistic to people now (40:00) Where else should a talented person move? (41:20) Asia is the new global center, (48:20) Internet first, not America first (01:03:25) Software vs. Hardware (01:05:25) Elon and the Grey Strategy (01:17:15) Israel is looking away from the US for partners (01:20:25) The Tribal lens integrates both domestic and foreign politics (01:21:25) Will blue always win? (01:24:25) Making sense of the China meltdown story (01:36:15How to fix San Francisco (01:51:25) Irrationality is an advantage (02:06:25) Dan and Erik debrief -- X / Twitter @balajis (Balaji) @dwr (Dan) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @MOZ_Podcast…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E23: Emad Mostaque and Sam Lessin Debate Whether AI is a Good Investment for VC 59:24

לפני 2 years59:24

59:24

In this episode of Upstream, Emad Mostaque, founder of Stability AI, and Sam Lessin, GP of Slow Ventures and former VP Product at Facebook, discuss how paradigm shifting AI will be for different sectors of the global economy, whether startups or incumbents have the edge, and whether AI is actually a good investment for Venture Capital. Topics covered in this debate span: the attention and information economy, SaaS markets, how AI-created entertainment will impact society and our relationships, porn, and AI disruption of highly-regulated industries. Erik Torenberg and The Cognitive Revolution AI podcast host Nathan Labenz serve as moderators, asking questions towards the end. We're proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/zen -- Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Mercury | Vanta 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- Looking to give your startup a competitive edge? Meet Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Mercury is banking for ambitious companies—a modern partner that can provide you with the tools and resources you need to turn your startup into the best version of itself. It’s software built to help you scale, with safety and stability, when you need to — whether you're a team of two, or a team of 1,000. Join more than 100,000 startups on Mercury, the powerful and intuitive way for ambitious companies to bank. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. -- Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/zen -- TOPICS DISCUSSED: (01:00) Episode Preview (03:20) AI as an extender rather than a deck shuffler (07:45) Is AI a disruptive or sustaining innovation? (09:13) What is intelligence? (11:47) The attention and information economy (16:43) Storytelling, the stock market, and the economy (18:13) Sponsors: Mercury, Vanta, NetSuite (25:30) Startups vs incumbents (27:40) Disrupting highly-regulated industries (28:47) AI in education: an AI tutor for every child (31:40) AI as StackOverflow 2.0 for engineers (33:45) Regulatory Arbitrage (36:20) The oracle problem (38:00) Apple as the weakest live player in AI (42:15) AI in communities and the future of social media (43:00) Replika on Valentine’s Day and AI-generated porn (50:10) How does the market for inference shape up? Inference vs. cloud (52:30) What are the most likely incumbents to be disrupted? (53:25) Will big tech continue to opensource? (55:30) Birth rate in US in the future given AI (57:00) Can any AI leader sustain high gross margins in the future? (58:00) Stability’s business model…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E22: Vivek Ramaswamy on his Presidential Run, Intellectually Oppressive Culture, Otherism 58:14

לפני 2 years58:14

58:14

Erik Torenberg sits down with Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican presidential candidate rapidly rising in the polls. Vivek recorded this interview with us in late march. Given the attention from his performance at the first GOP debate this week, we decided to re-run it. We go deeper on many of the soundbites that have been popping up this summer, including his ideas about the culture war, affirmative action, and climate science. We also cover his ambitious transformation from Silicon Valley founder to political candidate, and discuss his radical policy proposals. We're proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/zen -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Vanta 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/zen -- X/TWITTER: Erik's Twitter: @eriktorenberg Vivek's Twitter: @VivekGRamaswamy Podcast Twitter: @Upstream__Pod Erik's Substack: eriktorenberg.substack.com -- TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Episode Preview (03:03) When Vivek set his sights on running for president (09:02) Vivek’s presidential platform: Affirmative action, Climate, Fed, Drug crisis (15:35) Sponsors: Vanta, NetSuite (16:36) Where Vivek overlaps/differs with Silicon Valley: free speech, DEI, SVB (24:19) How Vivek conceptualizes a meritocracy (30:25) How to remove politics from corporations (41:00) Silicon Valley should empathize more with the rest of the country? (42:24) Cultural otherness (55:06) Defining “woke” (56:22) What’s it like to run a presidential campaign 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E8: Samo Burja on America's Future, China, AI, and the New Global Order 1:00:26

לפני 2 years1:00:26

1:00:26

Erik sits down with political scientist Samo Burja ( @SamoBurja ) who founded Bismarck Analysis, a consulting firm that analyzes institutions (ranging from governments to companies). Samo is one of the most interesting and wide-ranging thinkers today. In this episode, they discuss the current state and future state of America, China, Russia, Ukraine, energy, the US dollar, AI, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode preview (03:05) Who’s right: Balaji, Zeihan, or Olson? (07:18) Why China’s prospects aren’t as bad as Zeihan thinks (09:46) What have we learned one year out after Ukraine? (13:12) Future of The U.S. dollar (15:19) Sponsors: Secureframe (17:03) Balaji’s Bet (17:42) Future of America (22:06) Why Brazil hasn’t panned out (26:34) Is AI communist and crypto libertarian (29:37) Evolution of elites (33:40) Comparing Elon and SBF (36:12) Economics of automation and AI (41:28) How intellectual culture has changed (43:39) America exporting Western values (47:42) America and China converging (50:00) Startup cities vs incumbents (52:54) Samo’s consultancy (55:35) Samo’s upcoming research interests TWITTER: Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Samo's Twitter: @samoburja Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. Secureframe has just released Secureframe Trust, a new product that lets you showcase your organization's security posture to build customer trust. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E7: How Andrew Yang Would Cure American Politics 58:13

לפני 2 years58:13

58:13

Andrew Yang is a former founder of Venture for America and former candidate for president of the United States. Yang is now focused on introducing a third party to our two-party political system. He sits down with Erik to talk about why politics is broken and how to fix it, the current political landscape gearing into the 2024 elections, an inside look as to what's actually involved in running for president, and reflections on what he would've done differently. We also talk about universal basic income, fixing California, and fixing media polarization. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/upstream -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview of the episode (03:46) When Andrew Yang realized the two-party system is broken (08:37) How third parties can cure the system (11:09) What’s the relationship between money and laws changing? (16:10) How the “the last election” plays out (16:58) Sponsors: Secureframe (18:54) Andrew Yang’s prediction for 2024 (20:58) Introducing competition to one party state California (25:26) Institutionalization of the DNC (27:58) Manufacturing the “presidential quality” (29:12) Andrew Yang on Vivek Ramaswamy (33:05) Self-interest in politics (34:52) How to get more talented people to be in politics (37:39) Andrew Yang’s reflections on his candidacy (40:07) What it’s like to run for president (46:10) Trumpism is not over (47:10) Future of disunity? (49:39) Media environment (52:32) UBI and AI SOCIAL LINKS: Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Andrew’s Twitter: @andrewyang Forward Party Twitter: @fwd_Party Podcast Twitter: @Upstream__Pod Erik’s Substack: eriktorenberg.substack.com Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E6: Vivek Ramaswamy on Running for President in 2024 and His Message to Silicon Valley 1:01:36

לפני 2 years1:01:36

1:01:36

Vivek Ramaswamy is a 2024 Republican presidential candidate who founded biotech company Roivant Sciences, now public. He has written books about what he sees as the excesses of woke capitalism and started an asset management firm called Strive, meant to be a right-wing competitor with BlackRock. With his presidential campaign, Vivek challenges conventional orthodoxy on several core issues, including affirmative action and climate change. Regardless of what you may think about his policies or him, it's worth understanding how he stands to influence our upcoming election and inject his views into the mainstream. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/upstream -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview of the episode (04:10) When Vivek changed from founder to presidential candidate (11:47) Vivek’s presidential platform: Affirmative action, Climate, Fed, Drug crisis (16:34) Sponsors: Secureframe (17:58) Where Vivek overlaps/differs with Silicon Valley: DEI, Free speech, SVB (25:51) Meritocracy above all else? (32:32) How to remove politics from corporations (40:26) Silicon Valley should empathize more with the rest of the country? (56:56) Defining “woke” (58:14) What’s it like to run a presidential campaign SOCIAL LINKS: Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Vivek’s Twitter: @VivekGRamaswamy Podcast Twitter: @Upstream__Pod Erik’s Substack: eriktorenberg.substack.com Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E5: How Exactly Joe Lonsdale Would Fix The Public Sector 1:02:27

לפני 2 years1:02:27

1:02:27

Joe Lonsdale is the founder of Palantir, 8VC, a number of other unicorns he’s incubated, and Cicero Policy Institute. In this episode we focus mostly on his policy, breaking down what are the real problems in healthcare, education, crime/police, homelessness and what are the solutions he recommends to fix them. We talk about how the right is focused on the culture war when fixing accountability will actually be a more effective way to change the culture. We talk about the future for the right, why wealth inequality is the wrong metric to measure, and what it means to believe in America in 2023. This episode was recorded in February 2023. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM -- TIMESTAMPS: (3:10) How Joe Lonsdale maximizes his impact (5:10) The focus of Joe’s public policy org, Cicero (7:58) Why institutional reform is more effective than fighting the culture war (10:11) Misunderstandings about education (12:56) government unions shouldn’t exist (15:02) Misunderstandings about prison reform and crime (18:31) Misunderstandings about homelessness (21:13) Sponsors (26:52) Explaining our healthcare problems (32:53) When to reform vs start new institutions (38:00) What’s the power of a presidency / State reform vs federal reform (40:54) The frontier vs the core (43:40) Draining the swamp (43:50) Wealth inequality (47:20) Equality of opportunity is a myth (49:00) Appreciating billionaires (52:00) Peter Thiel isn’t really focused on politics (54:00) The future of the right (58:42) Why be an American optimist SOCIAL LINKS: Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Joe’s Twitter: @JTLonsdale Podcast Twitter: @Upstream__Pod Erik’s Substack: eriktorenberg.substack.com Joe’s Substack: blog.joelonsdale.com Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E4: David Sacks on His Intellectual and Political Journey 1:16:56

לפני 2 years1:16:56

1:16:56

David Sacks is known as a CEO/investor in multiple unicorns, and most recently a media mogul with All-In. In this episode, we trace David’s 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. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (03:18) How did tech become less free speech oriented? (04:30) Why is PayPal so woke? (09:25) Corporations and governments collaborating to censor (10:30) Tracing political history in Silicon Valley (18:45) College educated vs. not is the biggest difference in US (24:50) Sponsors: Secureframe (27:22) David’s experience with student activism in the 1990s (29:00) David’s evolution on foreign policy (32:15) U.S. Russiaphobia (35:45) Why David supports big-tech regulations (49:00) Is classical liberalism a dead end? (54:00) Elon’s character arc and political journey (01:06:33) Employee entitlement was a bull-market phenomenon (01:11:15) Accountability for elites is the solution Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe | Mercury 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. - Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Now more than ever, startup founders need a safe place to put their cash. Mercury protects your money and also provides the streamlined user experience that great founders expect through partner banks and their sweep networks.Mercury offers up to $5 million in FDIC insurance, which is 20 times the per-bank limit. They also make it easy to invest any cash above the FDIC-insured amount in a money market fund, a hundred thousand startups trust Mercury with their finances. I've been a happy Mercury customer and have found their team incredibly helpful and responsive. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E3: Ezra Klein on Supply-side Progressivism, Polarization, and What Silicon Valley Misses About Politics 1:20:27

לפני 2 years1:20:27

1:20:27

Ezra Klein, journalist, political analyst, and podcaster, sits with Erik Torenberg to go deeper into the intellectual movement of supply-side progressivism and what Silicon Valley misses about politics. This conversation was recorded in early February 2023, but is even more relevant today. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview of Ezra discussing Elon Musk (02:16) Unpacking supply side liberalism and the abundance agenda (07:55) Contrasting Ezra’s Buildism with Marc Andreessen and Tyler Cowen (12:20) Why we can't build (16:36) Sponsors: Secureframe | Mercury | MarketerHire (18:47) Unions (21:06) Ezra on what Silicon Valley misunderstands about politics (24:15) Abundance agenda is bipartisan, but will polarize (27:05) Ezra on immigration and free trade (31:08) Reinterpreting Ezra’s book Why We’re Polarized in 2023 (34:30) Institutional distrust (39:10) Davos elite v. Tech Elite v. Crypto Elite (47:10) What makes Elon right wing? (51:50) Chris Caldwell’s theory of polarization (01:00:15) What the president can actually do (01:07:00) Where he differs from Patrick Collison (01:10:15) Equality of opportunity vs a sufficient floor (01:16:55) Elon and the era of the trickster god (01:20:30) Ezra’s book recommendation Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe | Mercury 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. With free Shopify Magic, sell more with less effort by whipping up captivating content that converts – from blog posts to product descriptions using AI. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. - Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Now more than ever, startup founders need a safe place to put their cash. Mercury protects your money and also provides the streamlined user experience that great founders expect through partner banks and their sweep networks.Mercury offers up to $5 million in FDIC insurance, which is 20 times the per-bank limit. They also make it easy to invest any cash above the FDIC-insured amount in a money market fund, a hundred thousand startups trust Mercury with their finances. I've been a happy Mercury customer and have found their team incredibly helpful and responsive. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E2: Balaji Srinivasan on His Past and Future predictions, the Future of the Left and Right, and Why Tech Can’t Escape Politics 1:29:21

לפני 2 years1:29:21

1:29:21

Balaji Srinivasan, author of The Network State and co-founder of Counsyl, talks to Erik Torenberg about his past and future predictions, the future of the left and right, and why tech will never be able to escape politics. -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview of episode (02:30) Why are the scariest words in the English language “Balaji was right” (07:06) When to reform vs start a new institution (09:50) Are ideas weapons? (15:30) You don’t start with a tech company anymore, you start with a tech community (18:58) Internet nationalism (22:06) What "political" means (26:20 ) Activist movements are like “pump and dumps” (29:40) What the sovereign individual misses (41:03) Bitcoin is still the flag of technology (45:38) Democrats will move to the right on immigration (57:20) Tech America vs Woke America (58:00) Why are tech people so woke? (1:03:39) The left will flip on diversity (1:05:00) The left is shifting from wokeism to statism (1:15:17) Bitcoiners will take over the right wing party (1:21:28) Elon…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E1: Marc Andreessen on His Intellectual Journey the Past Ten Years 1:33:00

לפני 2 years1:33:00

1:33:00

Marc Andreessen of a16z sits with Erik Torenberg to go deeper into his intellectual and political journey, and his quest to find out how the world works. Upstream with Erik Torenberg is part of the Turpentine podcast network. To learn more: turpentine.co . Check out Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (04:25) How much has Marc changed vs the world changed? (07:55) How much do ideas matter? Who drives society — the elite or the masses? (10:56) People respond to interests more than ideas (13:08) Mental models for the left and the right (17:53) The road to hell is paved with good intentions (19:40) Master morality and slave morality (24:20) Unpacking Elon’s quote “Wokeness is the mind-virus” (27:00) Is classical liberalism sustainable and how it leads to wokeness (36:00) James Burnham’s worldview (43:50) How the left captured the institutions (46:20) Elon as the return to entrepreneurial capitalism (49:03) The experiments Elon is running (55:50) The billionaire mindset toward politics (58:30) We live in an oligarchy, not a democracy (01:07:00) Larry Page is the contrarian billionaire (01:08:30) Effective Altruism’s blind spots (01:11:36) Effective altruists think they can play god (01:12:16) SBF’s roll-the-dice philosophy (01:14:23) Aristocratic vs Meritocratic elite (01:22:48) Elites are insulated from the consequences of their policies (01:24:53) Why global governance is a nerd trap (01:28:16) Global governance is anti-diversity (01:31:42) Tech people are politically homeless (01:32:37) Elites can’t be removed, they can only be replaced (01:36:02) Advice for counter-elites (01:49:21) Reasons to be optimistic SOCIAL LINKS: Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Marc’s Twitter: @pmarca Podcast Twitter: @Upstream__Pod Erik’s Substack: Erik Torenberg Marc’s Substack: Marc Andreessen…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
Trailer: This is Upstream with Erik Torenberg 2:52

לפני 2 years2:52

2:52

Upstream is where Erik Torenberg interviews the world's most foundational thinkers to map the constellation of ideas that matter across tech, culture, and politics. You'll hear topics here first, and in the mainstream months later. Ask yourself, what’s upstream of what you believe? Interviewed for this season of Upstream: Marc Andreessen, David Sacks, Ezra Klein, Balaji Srinivasan, Katherine Boyle, Joe Lonsdale, and more luminary thinkers who are changing the world. Follow the podcast wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Email feedback to the show to info@turpentine.co --- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E21: Sam Hammond on AI, e/acc, and Institutional Disruption 59:21

לפני 2 years59:21

59:21

Samuel Hammond is a Canadian-born, DC-based senior economist for the Foundation for American Innovation, a think tank focused on bridging the cultures of Silicon Valley and DC. His research focuses on innovation and the institutional impact of disruptive technologies. He is an unconventional thinker and writer (Substack: https://www.secondbest.ca/ ) who participates in nuanced dialogue with different thinkers across economics, tech, policy, and philosophy. In this conversation we discuss Sam’s views on AI, mental models for his worldview, polarization, and how political influence really works. We're proudly sponsored by Vanta. Get $1000 off Vanta with https://www.vanta.com/zen -- Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Vanta 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -- Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/zen -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff -- LINKS: thefai.org https://www.secondbest.ca/ -- X/ TWITTER: @hamandcheese @joinfai @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod -- TIMESTAMPS (01:00) Episode Preview (03:00) How Sam characterizes his worldview (07:25) The great founder theory (11:47) Between AI safety concerns and e/acc beliefs, here does Samuel fall on AI? (15:24) What would Sam say to libertarians? (16:00) Sponsor: NetSuite (18:11) What can we learn from Mormonism about AI risks and regulations ?(21:19) AI is leveling the playing field (25:00) Instead of libertarian, AI is communitarian (27:10) Lessons of Mormonism for adapting to technological revolutions (30:00) Do right or left beliefs qualify as a religion, with their own institutions? (40:57) Humanism, grey goo, and why waste is good (44:40) Mental model for government dysfunction (48:09) The think tank ecosystem and how influence really works in DC? (50:53) Samuel’s interesting disagreements with: Balaji Srinivasan, Robin Hanson, Tyler Cowen, Bryan Caplan (52:27) What’s the best argument for pluralism? (52:48) Ezra Klein and Chris Caldwell actually make the same argument about polarization 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E20: Martin Shkreli on Public Vilification, Lessons from Prison, and Getting Back in the Arena 1:24:30

לפני 2 years1:24:30

1:24:30

Biotech founder and investor Martin Shkreli joins Erik Torenberg and his co-host Jesse Genet on In The Arena podcast to dissect his controversies and crises through the lens of leadership. Martin goes deep into the leadership decisions and regulatory environment that led to him serving time in prison, the lessons he took away about tech and founding startups, and how he believes there is a hero’s journey arc up ahead. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/upstream In The Arena is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. If you loved listening, subscribe at the podcast platform of your choice: https://link.chtbl.com/MwjyhPC5 Upstream and In The Arena are part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (01:52) Reliving Martin's most stressful moment (06:09) How the lawsuit impacted Martin's team (09:52) How the government handled Shkreli’s case (11:22) The day Martin was taken by authorities (14:28) Sponsor: NetSuite (19:10) Hedge funds’ relationships with the law compared with venture (25:57) The price hike and pharma industry norms (32:22) Explanation of charges (41:15) The new CEO (44:36) New trope of private equity pharma (48:57) The demise of trust in the media and Pharma Bro (57:11) Regrets and anger (59:45) The epidemic of criminal injustice (01:02:58) Being sued by the FTC under the Sherman Act (monopoly law) (01:06:03) Shkreli and Silicon Valley (01:08:31) Entrepreneurship post-indictment (01:15:40) Martin’s time in prison (01:21:48) Martin reflects on being a repeat founder, and where his passions lie now. X / TWITTER: @wagieeacc (Martin) @jessegenet (Jesse) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @inthearena_pod Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E19: Economist Bryan Caplan on Non-conformity, Sex, Feminism and Homeschooling 1:13:14

לפני 2 years1:13:14

1:13:14

Bryan Caplan is a writer and professor of economics at George Mason University, as well as the author of four books, including The myth of the Rational Voter, and The Case Against Education. His upcoming book is on Feminism. In this conversation, we talked about Bryan's views on sex and relationships, innovative approaches to boost birth rates, homeschooling, and his theories on what actually divides the left and the right. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Episode Preview (03:00) Identifying trends that are technically correct but not politically correct (05:20) Why are humans having less kids (13:37) The best ways to not conform (15:28) Sponsor: NetSuite (16:59) Feminism (21:12) Homeschooling (23:25) Dating markets, hook ups, and standard-lowering (32:51) Bryan’s dating advice (41:51) Agency and mental illness (46:58) El Salvador’s approach to crime (56:27) Immigration (01:02:05) Ukraine (01:03:33) What really divides the left and the right? LINKS: Bryan Caplan, The Case Against Education https://www.amazon.com/Case-against-Education-System-Waste/dp/0691174652 Bryan Caplan, Selfish Reasons To Have More Kids https://www.amazon.com/Selfish-Reasons-Have-More-Kids/dp/0465028616/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1691043786&refinements=p_27%3ABryan+Caplan&s=books&sr=1-2&text=Bryan+Caplan Bryan Caplan, Open Borders https://www.amazon.com/Open-Borders-Science-Ethics-Immigration/dp/1250316960/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1691043816&refinements=p_27%3ABryan+Caplan&s=books&sr=1-1&text=Bryan+Caplan Bryan Caplan, The Myth of the Rational Voter https://press.princeton.edu/books/paperback/9780691138732/the-myth-of-the-rational-voter X: Bryan's Twitter: @Bryan_Caplan Erik's Twitter: @eriktorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E18: Marc Andreessen on AI, Religion, SF, Longevity, and the NPC Meme 1:24:40

לפני 2 years1:24:40

1:24:40

Marc Andreessen of Andreessen Horowitz sits down with Erik Torenberg and his Moment of Zen co-hosts Dan Romero and Antonio Garcia Martinez to discuss AI, religion, San Francisco politics, Eric Voegelin, and life extension. Subscribe to Moment of Zen: https://link.chtbl.com/moz If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/upstream -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff LINKS: Check out Upstream's first interview with Marc, about Marc's Intellectual Education : Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0bYfnuju3PhHFtSGgiMmoz?si=ecLDCrn_TLaYa7Bh8Q50qg Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marc-andreessen-on-his-intellectual-journey-the-past/id1678893467?i=1000605668194 Marc Andreessen, Fighting https://pmarca.substack.com/p/fighting Marc Andreessen, Why AI Will Save The World. https://pmarca.substack.com/p/why-ai-will-save-the-world Eric Voegelin, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Voegelin Book: Regime Change by Patrick J. Deneen https://www.amazon.com/Regime-Change-Toward-Postliberal-Future/dp/0593086902 TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode preview (02:30) The evolution of human entertainment from epic poetry to NPC Tiktoks (07:50) Violence is a choice (12:00) True democracy mandates military service as a virtue (16:05) Sponsor: NetSuite (17:22) Can San Francisco be fixed? (28:03) Marc's empirical argument for AI (31:45) Where Sam Harris gets it wrong (35:35) Eric Voegelin's concept of Immanetizing the Eschaton (41:40) What happens to religion after AI (48:54) What would Nietzsche say? (49:44) LLMs are already the subject of a religious war (53:28) What comes after liberalism (01:03:03) Based on Zuck's recent PR success, are alpha males back? (01:07:23) Men’s tailoring and the stripping of masculinity (01:09:50) Is Twitter’s influence the real world? Alana Newhouse on MOZ: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmgtPetHBVw&t=349s (01:13:25 ) Is Left vs Right the central conflict of our time? (01:18:30) Life extension TWITTER: @pmarca (Marc) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @upstream__pod. Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E17: Noah Smith's Reflections on Biden's First Term, Foreign Policy, and Industrial Policy - Econ 102 with Noah Smith 51:11

לפני 2 years51:11

51:11

We're excited to introduce Upstream listeners to Econ 102 from Turpentine. In episode 1, Noah Smith and Erik Torenberg discuss the highs and lows of Biden's first term, Biden's policies in comparison to previous presidents and other leaders, as well as China - its real estate sector, industrial and manufacturing industries, and its views on tech. If you're looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM Subscribe to Econ 102 at the podcast platform of your choice: https://link.chtbl.com/Econ102 Econ 102 is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. To learn more: www.turpentine.co -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (01:54) Overview of Biden's first term (03:08) The most important thing Biden's done (12:35) What are the chances of Trump returning? (14:03) In the 1970s once again (14:50) Sponsor: NetSuite (17:26) Noah's ideal foreign policy (17:46) Japan's importance in foreign policy (19:29) Main foreign policy concerns in the next cycle (20:46) The ideal containment strategy (22:05) China (26:23) Getting to 1 billion Americans as a foreign policy measure (27:24) Real estate in China (31:02) Comparing and contrasting Chinese and American industrial policy (38:05) China's stomp on the IT industry to encourage manufacturing (39:15)The difference in Chinese and American views of manufacturing (43:18) Revitalizing American manufacturing (47:16) The services industry (49:09) A shortage of human truckers LINKS MENTIONED: Real Estate is China's Economic Achilles Heel: https://www.noahpinion.blog/p/real-estate-is-chinas-economic-achilles Why is China Smashing its Tech Industry: https://www.noahpinion.blog/p/why-is-china-smashing-its-tech-industry Noah Smith's newsletter: https://www.noahpinion.blog/ Erik Torenberg's newsletter: https://eriktorenberg.substack.com/ TWITTER: @noahpinion (Noah) @eriktorenberg (Erik) Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E16: Agnes Callard on Dark Empathy, Being Straussian vs Being Sincere, and Philosophical Progress 1:18:58

לפני 2 years1:18:58

1:18:58

In this episode, Erik sits down with Agnes Callard to discuss her views on disagreement and progress, her inclination to question and operate outside of accepted societal structures, and why empathy is not always positive. Agnes Callard is a philosopher and essayist who specializes in ancient philosophy, ethics, and Socratic communication. If you're looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM Upstream is part of the Turpentine podcast network. To learn about sponsorships, email Erik@turpentine.co or head to www.turpentine.co RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Episode Preview (02:45) Progress in philosophy (05:13) Tensions between academic and public philosophy (07:56) Does philosophy make the world a better place? (09:11) Consulting philosophers (11:42) Why don't we go to philosophers instead of therapists? (15:28) Sponsor: NetSuite (16:56) Making the case for philosophy (19:22) Sometimes the more you know ain't so (23:46) Benefit of self-delusion (26:05) What do people misunderstand about Socrates? (27:23) Benefits of conceptual literacy (30:02) Irony in today's culture (35:10) Status games (37:30) Being Straussian vs being sincere (44:15) Is Tyler Cowan Straussian? (46:00) Agnes' investment into the biggest cultural war issues of our time (48:28) Why is John Mill's conception of free speech worn out? (50:12) Free speech is the freedom to listen (52:34) How do we justify hierarchy? (56:59) Equality is not a moral principle (58:14) Darwinian morality (01:01:02) Dark empathy (01:07:11) Intellectual masturbation (01:09:28) Love, marriage, and living philosophically (01:15:48) What are the questions Agnes wants to find answers to? (01:17:20) Did we just do philosophy for the past hour? TWITTER: Agnes' Twitter: @AgnesCallard Erik's Twitter: @eriktorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E15: Richard Hanania on Vivek Ramaswamy, Affirmative Action, and the Winning Agenda for 2024 2:16:08

לפני 2 years2:16:08

2:16:08

Erik sits down with writer and political scientist Richard Hanania. This extended discussion encompasses Richard’s intellectual education and views on how the world works, including affirmative action, the dynamic divide between conservatives and liberals, government overreach, geopolitics, and intellectual contemporaries worth reading. If you’re looking for SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR or HIPAA compliance, head to Vanta: https://www.vanta.com/1000 -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . -- Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Vanta 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, with Vanta it can be super simple. Vanta automates the pricey, time-consuming process of prepping for SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. With Vanta, you can save up to 400 hours and 85% of costs. Vanta scales with your business, helping you successfully enter new markets, land bigger deals, and earn customer loyalty. Bonus? Upstream listeners get $1000 off Vanta. Just go to https://www.vanta.com/zen -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff -- LINKS: Richard’s new book: The Origins of Woke: Civil Rights Law, Corporate America, and the Triumph of Identity Politics Richard Hanania’s Substack: https://www.richardhanania.com/ -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode preview (05:40) Richard on Vivek Ramaswamy (07:20) Diversity and corporate interest (12:10) Wokeness is subsidized by government (18:00) Wokeness as a paper tiger (22:00) Liberal media and Conservative media (31:00) What should the Republican strategy be? (40:00) What is a positive vision rooted in conservative values? (48:00) What are the winning issues for conservatives? (51:00) Crime (01:10:00) Blank Slatism, Charles Murray, and the EA movement (01:14:00) Richard’s geopolitical worldview (01:25:00) Physiognomy of Conservatives and Liberals (01:28:00) Why are we polarized? (01:33:00) Dynamic divide between liberals and conservatives (01:34:00)Richard on Elon (01:40:00) Feminism (02:00:00) Richard on other contemporary intellectuals, including Tyler Cowen, Robin Hanson, Scott Alexander, and more -- TWITTER: Richard: @RichardHanania Erik: @ErikTorenberg -- Upstream : @upstream__pod 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E14: Balaji Srinivasan on the Fiat Crisis, Russia, and China. 1:18:25

לפני 2 years1:18:25

1:18:25

In this episode, Erik sits down with Balaji Srinivasan to discuss the Fiat Crisis, geopolitics, conspiracies, and the signs of decline for a hyperpower. Balaji is an angel investor, tech founder, philosopher, and author of The Network State. He was formerly the CTO of Coinbase. This riveting conversation is, in many aspects, a follow-up to his appearance on Moment of Zen (see links below). If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM Upstream is part of the Turpentine podcast network. To learn about sponsorships, email Erik@turpentine.co or head to www.turpentine.co -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . ICYMI: Moment of Zen w/ Balaji Srinivasan: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6tk6DbkVhBlDp1hh8wzIEM?si=NA-oZU6NT7iNTKhX1ixoCQ TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (01:40) What is happening with the Fiat Crisis? (08:52) Balaji’s equivalent premises (11:07) God, State, Network (12:45) Irrational adherence to principles (15:12) Sponsors: Secureframe (16:16) Hyperpower wars 1991-2021 (20:05) Economic conclusions (23:12) Blue America is at war with the world (28:30) Cancellation is a weak form of warfare (32:35) Red vs Blue vs Grey America (38:00) Make America states again (39:47) America and India parallels in reverse (43:10) Can America turn around after the next election? (44:25) America and China and Russia | Microsoft and Facebook and Google (46:55) How people react to Balaji’s China stance (52:00) History between Russia and Japan (57:25) Conspiracies (01:04:35) Balaji’s predictions for 2024 & the Fed (01:11:41) Replacing the Dollar network TWITTER: Balaji’s Twitter: @balajis Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod SPONSOR: Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . Secureframe https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. Secureframe has just released Secureframe Trust, a new product that lets you showcase your organization's security posture to build customer trust.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E13: Kevin Kelly on Multiple Futures, AI, and Becoming Better Humans 49:25

לפני 2 years49:25

49:25

This week our guest is Kevin Kelly, the founding executive editor of Wired magazine, technologist, and author. We go into Kevin’s predictions for AI, interspeciation, and how humans need to be having more children. We also talk about practical and unpretentious advice for succeeding, communicating, and being good members of society. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM Upstream is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: Turpentine.co -- TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Preview (01:29) Introduction (03:06) Kevin's advice for living and 'advice as a category' (15:55) Sponsors: Secureframe | Mercury (17:00) Virtue of Natalism (20:42) Future of sentience (26:13) AI safety (31:26) What technology wants (38:03) New mythologies (41:20) Global governance (45:14) Demoralizing Failure LINKS: Kevin Kelly's book: Excellent Advice for Living https://www.amazon.com/Excellent-Advice-Living-Wisdom-Earlier/dp/0593654528 TWITTER: Kevin's Twitter: @kevin2kelly Erik's Twitter: @eriktorenberg SPONSORS: Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe | Mercury 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. Secureframe has just released Secureframe Trust, a new product that lets you showcase your organization's security posture to build customer trust. - Mercury: https://mercury.com/ Now more than ever, startup founders need a safe place to put their cash. Mercury protects your money and also provides the streamlined user experience that great founders expect through partner banks and their sweep networks. Mercury offers up to $5 million in FDIC insurance, which is 20 times the per-bank limit. They also make it easy to invest any cash above the FDIC-insured amount in a money market fund, a hundred thousand startups trust Mercury with their finances. I've been a happy Mercury customer and have found their team incredibly helpful and responsive. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC 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 . Thanks to Graham Bessellieu for production.…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
[Bonus] Palmer Luckey of Anduril Industries on China, DefenseTech, and U.S. Policy | The HIll & Valley 1:10:28

לפני 2 years1:10:28

1:10:28

Today, we have a special new show to share. The Hill & Valley is a podcast that offers an inside look into how tech and the US government are starting to move closer together and pave the future of American technological leadership and national security. The show is hosted by author and commissioner of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Jacob Helberg, Varda Space Industries Founder Delian Asparouhov, and Principal at 137 Ventures Christian Garrett. Palmer Luckey is the founder of defense technology company Anduril Industries and Oculus VR. Palmer discusses the future of China-US relations, breakthroughs in DefenseTech, and working with the Department of Defense. -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . Timestamps: (00:00) Episode Preview (03:10) Shifting dynamics between the government and Silicon Valley since Palmer started Anduril Industries (07:30) Biggest factors contributing to new demand for defense technology (13:42) Working with the U.S. Department of Defense (19:00) Sponsors: Secureframe | Mercury (20:00) Exporting strategic technology to China: patents, AI, sensor fusion (26:00) Lobbying (27:00) Building Anduril Industries on first principles (40:30) Can the US pull off a second Cold War victory with China? (45:00) Immigration reform and supply chain disruption (54:20) Palmer’s picks for the most impactful strategic technology on the horizon SPONSORS: Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Mercury 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months. - Shopify : https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Mercury : https://mercury.com/ Now more than ever, startup founders need a safe place to put their cash. Mercury protects your money and also provides the streamlined user experience that great founders expect through partner banks and their sweep networks. Mercury offers up to $5 million in FDIC insurance, which is 20 times the per-bank limit. They also make it easy to invest any cash above the FDIC-insured amount in a money market fund, a hundred thousand startups trust Mercury with their finances. I've been a happy Mercury customer and have found their team incredibly helpful and responsive. Mercury is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services are provided by Choice Financial Group and involve bank and trust members FDIC. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E12: Tim Urban on Liberalism, Heresy, and Equality 1:02:05

לפני 2 years1:02:05

1:02:05

Erik Torenberg sits down with Tim Urban, writer of the popular blog Wait But Why, and author of the 2023 book What’s Our Problem? where he offers a framework for thinking about our chaotic political landscape. In this discussion, Erik and Tim discuss liberalism, why heresy is important, and the notion of equality. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM Upstream is part of the Turpentine Network. You can learn more at turpentine.co -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode Preview (02:37) The story of Tim Urban’s new book “What’s Our Problem?” (09:01) Existential threat, technological innovation, and heresy (14:09) Why the left and the right aren’t respecting liberalism (16:51) Sponsor: Secureframe (19:42) Social justice fundamentalism vs liberal social justice (26:13) Social justice fundamentalism as a religion (29:39) Freedom vs Equality (50:42) Equality and specificity (55:08) What would change if Tim wrote the book in the next few years? TWITTER: Tim’s Twitter: @waitbutwhy Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod SPONSORS: Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. Secureframe has just released Secureframe Trust, a new product that lets you showcase your organization's security posture to build customer trust. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E11: Katherine Boyle on Building Companies, Families, and Careers 1:22:41

לפני 2 years1:22:41

1:22:41

Erik Torenberg sits down with Katherine Boyle, a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz where she invests in companies that promote American dynamism. Erik and Katherine discuss the private sector versus the public sector, the American dream in conflict with the rise of therapeutic culture, and how to reinstill a love of public service. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM If you enjoyed this podcast you listen to Katherine's recent Moment of Zen episode next, where she discusses founder mentality, Twitter, SpaceX, and more ( https://link.chtbl.com/moz ) -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode preview (03:21) What is American Dynamism? (05:49) How should VC’s view China? (08:03) We aren’t seeing China as an ally anymore (10:19) Private vs public sector (13:23) Why the public sector won’t build the next SpaceX (16:35) Sponsors: Secureframe | Marketerhire (20:00) Tradeoffs with privatization (26:20) How to reinstill a love for public service (31:02) Where Katherine differs from Balaji (33:39) What can we learn from China (36:13) Building is a political philosophy (35:56) Katherine’s family background (38:47) America is where you can escape your past (40:29) We are a nation of families moreso than individuals (42:40) What Katherine learned from being an au pair (44:48) The rise of therapeutic culture (50:38) What to do about struggling men (59:32) The problems of delaying adulthood (1:07:42) The problems of optionality (1:11:07)How religion informs her work and life TWITTER: Katherine’s Twitter: @KTmBoyle A16z’s Twitter: @a16z Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod LINKS: American Dynamism: https://a16z.com/american-dynamism/ Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe : https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. Secureframe has just released Secureframe Trust, a new product that lets you showcase your organization's security posture to build customer trust. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E10: Sam Harris on Populism, Polarization, and His Beef with the Left and the Right 1:33:40

לפני 2 years1:33:40

1:33:40

Erik sits down with Sam Harris, an author, neuroscientist, podcaster, and philosopher. Sam is known for having crucial conversations about morality, religion, rationality, and the pursuit of truth. This discussion covers Sam’s concerns about populism, polarization, and inequality. We also discuss why Sam is hated by the left and the right. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM -- We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com . LINKS: Sam's work: https://www.samharris.org/ Sam's podcast Making Sense: https://www.samharris.org/podcasts TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode preview (03:00) Sam’s life’s work (05:00) Sam’s concerns around the marketplace of ideas (12:25) Sam is a mistake theorist (16:45) Sponsors: Secureframe (21:00) Why Sam is hated by both the left and the right (23:30) Fundamental conflict between the left and the right (32:00) Navigating group disparities (42:00) Individual rights vs group rights (48:00) Is wokeness the new religion? (52:00) Sam’s critique of populism (59:00) Sam’s defenses of experts/institutions (1:12:00) The right doesn’t sufficiently appreciate luck (1:17:45) Polarization is better than a one-party state (1:22:00) Global governance TWITTER: Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Upstream : @upstream__pod Making Sense Podcast: @MakingSenseHQ Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe : https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. Secureframe has just released Secureframe Trust, a new product that lets you showcase your organization's security posture to build customer trust. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
[Bonus Episode] Moment of Zen w/ Mike Solana, Erik Torenberg and Dan Romero 1:36:29

לפני 2 years1:36:29

1:36:29

We're excited to introduce Upstream listeners to Moment of Zen, a weekly podcast hosted by Erik Torenberg, Dan Romero, Antonio Garcia Martinez, and additional guests. This episode features special guest Mike Solana, Editor in Chief of Pirate Wires (https://www.piratewires.com/) in conversation with Erik and Dan. They cover the recent AI congressional hearings, The Culture War's evolution, Twitter under Elon, and much more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE TO "MOMENT OF ZEN" Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/moz YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MomentofZenPodcast MoZ's first episode from Dec '22 featured Marc Andreessen and other guests who have appeared on MoZ include: Balaji Srinivasan, Katherine Boyle, Amjad Masad, Nic Carter, Noah Smith, Michelle Tandler, Byrne Hobart, and more. TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction to this episode of Moment of Zen (00:48) On what Mike Solana would say to Congress about AI (08:00) Contrasting Zuck, Brian Armstrong, and Sam Altman’s approach to regulation (14:20) Sponsor: Secureframe (16:30) AI doomerism is just marketing for big AI (26:00) Elon’s wins and losses so far as Twitter CEO (38:00) Taylor Lorenz Mythology (40:00) Twitter’s regime change // How the tables have turned. Muahahaha. (50:00) Evolution of polarization (58:00) Silver lining of polarization (1:07:00) Distinguishing Elon’s antics from his philosophy (1:18:00) The right is adopting woke tactics (1:24:00) Social media and depression follow up (1:28:00) Is half of Gen Z non-straight? (1:32:00) Ellen Pao (1:34:30) Is Pirate Wires conservative media? (No) TWITTER: @MOZ_Podcast @micsolana (Mike) @piratewires @eriktorenberg (Erik) @dwr (Dan) @antoniogm (Antonio) Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | NetSuite | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . -NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/upstream NetSuite provides financial software for all your business needs. More than thirty-six thousand companies have already upgraded to NetSuite, gaining visibility and control over their financials, inventory, HR, eCommerce, and more. If you’re looking for an ERP platform -> NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/upstream and defer payments of a FULL NetSuite implementation for six months. -Secureframe https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. Secureframe has just released Secureframe Trust, a new product that lets you showcase your organization's security posture to build customer trust. -- 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 .…

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

1
E9: Benedict Evans on AI, Web3, VR and the Future of Tech 1:22:27

לפני 2 years1:22:27

1:22:27

Erik sits down with independent analyst Benedict Evans for a wide-ranging discussion of predictions and frameworks spanning the vast realm of technology - where we’ve been, where we’re going, and what really matters. AI scout and podcast host Nathan Labenz (The Cognitive Revolution) joins for the last 20 minutes to deepen the discussion on AI. If you’re looking for an ERP platform, check out our sponsor, NetSuite: http://netsuite.com/UPSTREAM -- RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Every week investor and writer of the popular newsletter The Diff, Byrne Hobart, and co-host Erik Torenberg discuss today’s major inflection points in technology, business, and markets – and help listeners build a diversified portfolio of trends and ideas for the future. Subscribe to “The Riff” with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg: https://link.chtbl.com/theriff TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Episode preview (02:47) Benedict’s annual presentations and frameworks for “the next thing” (08:00) Are Netflix and Tesla tech companies? (13:59) Why hasn’t software ‘eaten’ certain industries and fields? (15:47) Sponsors: Secureframe (19:30) Preconditions for predictions (25:30) Overhyped/underappreciated aspects of Web3 and Crypto (29:25) Blockchain, and Benedict’s prediction for decentralization (35:00) Building the next Twitter (44:33) Predictions for metaverse and VR (50:52) Consumer surplus and business models (52:37) AI predictions (56:22) Opportunities in AI (01:02:58) Bundling and unbundling lens on AI (01:07:35) Future of jobs (01:16:00) Predictions for Benedict’s next presentation LINKS: Presentations: https://www.ben-evans.com/ Book recommendation: Reminiscences of a Stock Operator by Edwin Lefèvre https://www.amazon.com/Reminiscences-Stock-Operator-Edwin-Lef%25C3%25A8vre/dp/0471059684#:~:text=First%2520published%2520in%25201923%252C%2520Reminiscences%2520of%2520a%2520Stock%2520Operator%2520is,recommended%2520investment%2520book%2520ever%2520written?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=turpentine-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=19fa33d3202c6df062385946b9ec3743&camp=1789&creative=9325 TWITTER: Erik’s Twitter: @eriktorenberg Benedict’s Twitter:@benedictevans Please support our sponsors: Beehiiv | Shopify | Secureframe 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. 🐝to https://Beehiiv.com and use code "UPSTREAM" for 20% off your first three months -Shopify: https://shopify.com/torenberg for a $1/month trial period Shopify is the global commerce platform that helps you sell at every stage of your business. Shopify powers 10% of all ecommerce in the US. And Shopify's the global force behind Allbirds, Rothy's, and Brooklinen, and 1,000,000s of other entrepreneurs across 175 countries. From their all-in-one ecommerce platform, to their in-person POS system – wherever and whatever you're selling, Shopify's got you covered. Sign up for $1/month trial period: https://shopify.com/torenberg . - Secureframe: https://secureframe.com/ Secureframe is the leading all-in-one platform for security and privacy compliance. Get SOC-2 audit ready in weeks, not months. I believe in Secureframe so much that I invested in it, and I recommend it to all my portfolio companies. Sign up for a free demo and mention UPSTREAM during your demo to get 20% off your first year. Secureframe has just released Secureframe Trust, a new product that lets you showcase your organization's security posture to build customer trust. -- 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 .…

ברוכים הבאים אל Player FM!

Player FM סורק את האינטרנט עבור פודקאסטים באיכות גבוהה בשבילכם כדי שתהנו מהם כרגע. זה יישום הפודקאסט הטוב ביותר והוא עובד על אנדרואיד, iPhone ואינטרנט. הירשמו לסנכרון מנויים במכשירים שונים.

תקשיבו ל-500+ נושאים

25 subscribers

דומה ל"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

Amazon Basics Multipurpose Copy Printer Paper, 8.5 x 11 inches, 20 lb, 1 Ream, 500 Sheets, 92 Bright, White

2024 Topps Baseball Complete Set Factory Sealed Box Set - Baseball Complete Sets

2025 - American Silver Eagle .999 Fine Silver with our Smyrnacoin Certificate of Authenticity Dollar Uncirculated US Mint

פודקאסטים ששווה להאזין

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg « » E118: Ending Woke, Why Elon Wins, and A Return to Innovation w/ Marc Andreessen [Moment of Zen repost]

E118: Ending Woke, Why Elon Wins, and A Return to Innovation w/ Marc Andreessen [Moment of Zen repost]

פודקאסטים ששווה להאזין

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg « »
E118: Ending Woke, Why Elon Wins, and A Return to Innovation w/ Marc Andreessen [Moment of Zen repost]