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The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series

Peter Zeihan·921 episodes

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Welcome to The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series! Geopolitical Strategist Peter Zeihan is a global energy, demographic and security expert. If you want to stay informed on the realities of geography and populations, you've come to the right place. Zeihan's worldview offers insights into how global politics impact markets and economic trends, helping industry leaders navigate today’s complex mix of geopolitical risks and opportunities. Expect a forward-looking approach to what will drive tomorrow’s headlines, delivered in digestible, accessible and relevant takeaways for audiences of all types. For more info or to subscribe to the newsletter, visit: zeihan.com Subscribe to t...

Episodes

3 min
Jun 3, 2026Episode 917
Should Alberta Secede from Canada? || Peter Zeihan

Enough signatures have been gathered to force an independence referendum and vote in Alberta. Just a reminder that secession is legally possible in Canada following a successful referendum. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4uzWuhT

3 min
Jun 2, 2026Episode 916
Magyar Tries to Rebuild the Visegrád Group || Peter Zeihan

Hungary's new Prime Minister, Peter Magyar, made his first foreign trip to Poland. This trip is not a reflection of ideological unity, but rather a rebuilding of regional cooperation within the Visegrád Group.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4dAVQLc

4 min
Jun 1, 2026Episode 915
Ebola Outbreak and Delayed Detection by the U.S. || Peter Zeihan

At least 50 are dead due to a new Ebola outbreak in Central Africa, and the U.S. was the last to hear about it. This is a glaring example of the breakdown in the U.S. public health and monitoring system.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4v4YvCs

3 min
May 29, 2026Episode 914
Can Iran Control Internet Cables in the Gulf? || Peter Zeihan

We've previously discussed the vulnerabilities of global internet infrastructure, but today we'll focus on subsea data cables in the Persian Gulf.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4tVi9jB

3 min
May 28, 2026Episode 913
Civita di Bagnoregio: A Microcosm of Italy || Peter Zeihan

Civita is living proof that places facing decline can adapt and overcome by drawing on their unique identity. This hilltop town-turned-tourist destination is a microcosm of Italy itself. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter:

3 min
May 27, 2026Episode 912
The U.S. Gets a Taste of Corruption || Peter Zeihan

Trump is no stranger to helping out his cronies, but this new settlement that creates a $1.8 billion fund to compensate conservatives allegedly targeted by past Justice Department actions is a bit on the nose, even for him.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/43ka5xL

4 min
May 26, 2026Episode 911
The U.S. Gets a Taste of Corruption || Peter Zeihan

There were some recent tests in the Philippines involving the Japanese Type-88 anti-ship missile system and the U.S. Typhon launcher. These truck-mounted systems can move throughout the islands, rather than relying on fixed bases.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/43hKnKe

7 min
May 25, 2026Episode 910
Latvia's Political Flux Caused by Drones || Peter Zeihan

Latvia's government is in flux following the firing of the defense minister, his party leaving the coalition, and the prime minister resigning. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/42DU3yH

4 min
May 22, 2026Episode 909
Cuba Faces a Humanitarian Crisis || Peter Zeihan

Collapsing fuel supplies have left Cuba with a severe energy and humanitarian crisis. While a single Russian fuel shipment bought them some time, with the lack of Venezuelan oil imports and the U.S. Navy restricting access, things aren't looking good.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4tJpbI1

3 min
May 21, 2026Episode 908
Is Now a Good Time for China to Invade Taiwan? || Peter Zeihan

With the U.S. distracted (and depleted) by the Iran War, should China seize this opportunity to invade Taiwan?Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4uLwQ9x

3 min
May 20, 2026Episode 907
Using U.S. Energy as Leverage || Peter Zeihan

Trade relations between the U.S. and Europe are on the fritz. The latest in all the noise is the suggestion that the U.S. could restrict LNG exports to the EU if trade negotiations break down. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter:

2 min
May 19, 2026Episode 906
Impacts on the U.S. Power Grid from the Iran War || Peter Zeihan

The U.S. is relatively insulated from the conflict in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, since it's a net exporter of nearly every major energy source. Most other countries aren't so lucky...Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3PtkG6d

5 min
May 18, 2026Episode 905
Iran Diplomacy Has Yet to Begin || Peter Zeihan

The administration’s centralized and personalized approach to foreign relations has collapsed U.S. diplomacy across multiple fronts, including stalled Iran talks, poor relations with allies, and uncertainty ahead of future negotiations with China. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/432Ubrs

3 min
May 15, 2026Episode 904
So You Want to Break Iran... || Peter Zeihan

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has forced Iran to get creative with its oil storage. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4dfET7q

5 min
May 14, 2026Episode 903
Will the Swiss Cap Their Population? || Peter Zeihan

On June 14, Switzerland will vote on a referendum to cap its population at 10 million. Current projections don't put the Swiss population crossing that number until 2035 or 2040.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter:https://bit.ly/4np12EY

6 min
May 13, 2026Episode 902
This Ain't Your Father's Tanker War || Peter Zeihan

No, the U.S. can’t escort tankers in the Persian Gulf today as it did during the 1980s Tanker War. Back in the 80s, the U.S. swooped into a regional conflict where attacks on shipping were limited, and the Strait remained open.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/49xcDvU

2 min
May 12, 2026Episode 901
Welcome to Captain Phillips' Nightmare || Peter Zeihan

Captain Phillips is shaking in his boots because piracy is returning to the high seas, specifically in the Red Sea and off the Horn of Africa. Somali pirates have already attacked multiple ships.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4ut7lcV

4 min
May 11, 2026Episode 900
Why U.S. Deployments in Germany Matter || Peter Zeihan

Relations between the U.S. and Germany are quickly deteriorating. German Chancellor Merz has criticized the U.S. for lacking a coherent negotiation strategy. President Trump responded by floating the idea of reducing U.S. troop deployments in Germany. It's one big mess.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3P7uYZw

7 min
May 8, 2026Episode 899
Markets Flash Back to the Past || Peter Zeihan

Before you get too excited, NO, I'm not giving away any financial advice. However, whatever the global markets are doing right now doesn't match the physical reality of the Iran war.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter:

4 min
May 7, 2026Episode 898
El Jardinero Gets Trimmed by Mexican Authorities || Peter Zeihan

Mexican authorities have arrested Audias Flores Silva (aka El Jardinero...not the scariest nickname I've heard), a senior figure in the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4cJfPa6

5 min
May 6, 2026Episode 897
Russia Tucks Tail in Mali || Peter Zeihan

The Russians are getting the boot from the Sahel, and it's all thanks to an unusual alliance between Tuareg separatists and a local branch of Al-Qaeda.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4t6erDe

3 min
May 5, 2026Episode 896
Japanese Weapons Are Open for Export || Peter Zeihan

Japan has lifted its long-standing restriction on exporting weapons. This will bring some fresh dynamism to the global defense industry, specifically in naval manufacturing and drones. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter:

2 min
May 4, 2026Episode 895
The Iran War Approaches a Tipping Point || Peter Zeihan

The Iran war is approaching a painful tipping point this week. Global energy flows remain in a chokehold, and economic conditions are worsening worldwide. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4eL93Sj

3 min
May 1, 2026Episode 894
Underwater Drones and the Future of Naval Warfare || Peter Zeihan

Drones have been all the rage in the Ukraine War, and they will continue to be one of the primary topics of warfare in the near future, but do underwater drones have any place in this conversation? Note: This video was recorded last year during one of Peter's backpacking trips. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4cIBvlr

3 min
Apr 30, 2026Episode 893
America's Leg Up on Petrochemicals || Peter Zeihan

The Iran War has caused a massive disruption in global petrochemical production. Since most of the world relies on oil-derived naptha, the ~12 million barrels/day shortage is taking a toll. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4sQt6Cg

7 min
Apr 29, 2026Episode 892
The Return of Kremlin Terrorism || Peter Zeihan

During the Cold War, Soviet intelligence agencies actively sponsored or even created terror cells throughout Europe. A recent mass shooting event in Ukraine suggest a return to old habits could well be happening. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/48K69JS

5 min
Apr 28, 2026Episode 891
Italy Gives Trump the Cold Shoulder || Peter Zeihan

Trump's chaotic and isolated approach to the Iran War has caused rifts between the U.S. and many of its closest European allies. Topping that list is the Italians. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4cH3gLa

4 min
Apr 27, 2026Episode 890
California’s Coming Energy Crisis || Peter Zeihan

The fallout from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is reaching California, triggering a serious energy crunch. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter:

8 min
Apr 24, 2026Episode 889
Iran War Winners and Losers: North American Energy || Peter Zeihan

As Persian Gulf and Russian exports collapse, global prices will rise, which should benefit the U.S. and Canada. However, if exports are halted to keep gasoline prices down, then North America would become oversupplied. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/489rNHd

4 min
Apr 23, 2026Episode 888
Guam and the Practical Impact of Climate Change || Peter Zeihan

I normally do not attempt to link climate change to local events, but current storms in the central Pacific demand we take a fresh look. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4dXN5LP

8 min
Apr 22, 2026Episode 887
A New Era in Hungary: Orbán Gets the Boot || Peter Zeihan

A new era is beginning in Hungary. A blowout in the latest election has removed Viktor Orbán from power and ushered in a new government led by Péter Magyar. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4sAQK5z

2 min
Apr 21, 2026Episode 886
Bring On the Jet Fuel Shortages || Peter Zeihan

Even if the Iran ceasefire holds, the world already has a months-long jet fuel shortage baked in. So, start saving for those summer vacation flights. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4cbWE8C

3 min
Apr 20, 2026Episode 885
MAGA – Breaking Up Is Hard || Peter Zeihan

When Marjorie Taylor Greene, Tucker Carlson, and Alex Jones all turn on Trump on the same day...it's worth looking into. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/424e5Ss

2 min
Apr 17, 2026Episode 884
China Tries to Build Sand Bases, Again || Peter Zeihan

China is out building sand castles again in the South China Sea, and I bet you can guess how it's going to end.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4ekeF5W

5 min
Apr 16, 2026Episode 883
The Blockade of Iran Begins || Peter Zeihan

The blockade of Iran has officially begun. The first day was a bit slow, but this remains a monumental move by the U.S. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4sH96SF

5 min
Apr 15, 2026Episode 882
The Energy Crisis: Downstream Impacts || Peter Zeihan

The global energy crisis has moved from theoretical to very real. As the last shipments sent before the war begin to arrive, we are now hitting a turning point in the energy crisis. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4sodi9N

13 min
Apr 14, 2026Episode 881
Trump Goes on a Firing Spree || Peter Zeihan

Just because Trump is finally purging some of his administration doesn't mean that the problems are going away. The core issue still exists: Trump prioritizes loyalty and praise over competency and experience. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4bWT41Z

7 min
Apr 13, 2026
Winners and Losers of the Iran War: Ukraine and Russia || Peter Zeihan

The Iran war has slashed oil exports from the Persian Gulf, creating a global supply shortage that's just starting to hit markets. As prices are driven up and broader economic impacts unfold, winners and losers will begin to emerge. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4meB4U1

8 min
Apr 10, 2026Episode 880
The End of the WTO || Peter Zeihan

A cornerstone of modern globalization, the World Trade Organization (WTO), is collapsing. Following the Cold War, the post-WWII system needed a legal system to enforce trade rules, so the WTO was born. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4vaKeoS

6 min
Apr 9, 2026Episode 879
How to End American Power || Peter Zeihan

Trump's latest statement telling countries to secure their own oil dismantles the very fabric of the global order. We'd be stepping away from the post-WWII system where the U.S. provided security for everyone, so economic growth could be the priority. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4c4puXe

5 min
Apr 8, 2026Episode 878
So You Want to Take Iran's Oil… || Peter Zeihan

Taking Iran's Oil is far more complicated and dangerous than Trump has made it out to be. We're talking about a humanitarian crisis and a full-blown ground invasion to actually control Iranian production. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4dtlF05

2 min
Apr 7, 2026Episode 877
Russia Draws American Blood in Iran || Peter Zeihan

Iran was able to successfully strike Prince Sultan Air Base, which is a U.S. base in Saudi Arabia. And guess who supplied Iran with the targeting data necessary to carry out the strike? The Russians. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4lZB2PS

5 min
Apr 6, 2026Episode 876
Can the British Reopen the Strait of Hormuz? || Peter Zeihan

The British-led effort to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by forming a coalition without U.S. involvement is just unrealistic. Most countries lack the naval power to do this, and even if the coalition could assemble the ships needed, countering Iran's drones and missiles would be extremely difficult. Protecting shipping and reopening the strait would require naval escorts and control of vast stretches of the Iranian coastline...not something this coalition could achieve.

3 min
Apr 6, 2026Episode 875
A Flawed Trade System in Europe || Peter Zeihan

European efforts to build trade systems that exclude the U.S. are inherently flawed. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/413Yzpe

5 min
Apr 3, 2026Episode 874
The Strait of Hormuz Remains Open...For Iran || Peter Zeihan

Despite the ongoing conflict in the Persian Gulf, shipping in the Strait of Hormuz remains open...sort of. The Iranians have taken control, requiring ships to get clearance for safe passage. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/40XWUl6

7 min
Apr 2, 2026Episode 873
U.S. Ground Troops Coming to Iran || Peter Zeihan

The U.S. is preparing for a potential ground operation in Iran. Marines from the USS Tripoli and Boxer, as well as elements from the 82nd Airborne, could be looped in. Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/40RY3L0

3 min
Apr 1, 2026Episode 872
The Death of the First-Time Home Buyer || Peter Zeihan

Buying your first home is one of those major milestones that your parents and grandparents probably didn't even think twice about. Now, that milestone is slipping further out of reach for the average American.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4dPbkeK

3 min
Mar 31, 2026Episode 871
Ukraine Strikes Hit Baltic Export Facilities || Peter Zeihan

The global energy trade has been taking hit after hit, and things might be getting worse. Ukraine launched a large drone attack on oil export facilities in the Baltic, proving they can disrupt Russian exports.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4c4bHRw

8 min
Mar 30, 2026Episode 870
How to Break Iran || Peter Zeihan

If the U.S. wants to force a meaningful change in Iran's government, there's only one path forward. They have to destabilize the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihan Full Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4sB6eYq

7 min
Mar 27, 2026Episode 869
Aluminum Shortages Coming Soon || Peter Zeihan

Aluminum production in the Persian Gulf is going bye-bye. As Iran ramps up strikes on gas fields, pipelines, and power plants, the countries that depend upon cheap natural gas will no longer be able to run their smelters.Join the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/PeterZeihanFull Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4byhxKT

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