Decoding Japan's Future: Global Power Landscape and Geopolitics

In this episode of Live Players, Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg delve into an analysis of Japan's multidimensional identity as a highly homogeneous ethno state, an economic powerhouse, and as a hub for innovation in tech & AI. They also cover its aging population, nuanced military stance, and nuclear ambitions. If you need an ecommerce platform, check out our sponsor Shopify: https://shopify.com/momentofzen for a $1/month trial period. Note: This deep dive was recorded before the earthquake that struck western Japan on Jan 1, 2024. - 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 --- Live Players is 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: HARMONIC | SHOPIFY 🧲 Learn why Craft, Bedrock, NEA and 100s more trust Harmonic’s data to source deals. Harmonic is the most complete startup database, finding new companies as soon as they incorporate and tracking them through IPO. Head to https://bit.ly/harmonicturpentine and make sure to mention Turpentine VC during your demo. SHOPIFY: https://shopify.com/momentofzen 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/momentofzen — LINKS: Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/ --- TIMESTAMPS: (00:10) Intro (00:51) Japan's Role in Global Geopolitics (03:19) Japan's Aging Population and Economic Challenges (06:16) Japan's Work Culture and Economic Future (10:28) Sponsor: Shopify (12:04) Japan's Fertility Crisis and Potential Solutions (18:53) Japan's Technological Advancements and Economic Impact (41:12) Japan's Military Situation and Geopolitical Role (54:00) Japan's Future in Asia (57:41) Japan's Future Challenges -- This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].