In this episode co-hosts Dr. Billy Riggs and Vipul Vyas explore the complex dynamics of global shifts, focusing on tariffs, trade, and the impact of US policies on innovation and talent. They discuss the implications of isolationism, the role of Europe and China in shaping the future of automation, and the political dysfunction that hinders progress in the US. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a new understanding of global cooperation and the importance of maintaining leverage in a multipolar world.

Takeaways

- The US is facing a potential isolation due to its trade policies.
- Tariffs are being used as a tool for leverage in global trade.
- The attractiveness of the US as a destination for talent is declining.
- Other economies are becoming more competitive, reducing the US's talent extraction advantage.
- Political dysfunction in the US is a significant barrier to innovation.
- The future of American innovation depends on rebuilding trust with allies.
- A multipolar world is emerging, challenging US dominance.
- Europe and China are advancing in automation and innovation.
- The US must invest in domestic capacity to remain competitive.
- The current global landscape requires a reimagining of international agreements.

Sound bites

- "What's going on with tariffs?"
- "We're not beholden to anyone."
- "The map is being redrawn."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction
00:41 - Explanation of Omission from Episode 10
01:44 - Welcome to Rewiring the American Edge
03:33 - What's Going on With Tariffs
05:38 - The Risk of Volatility
08:47 - Impacts to Innovation: Access to Markets and Talent
14:52 - Navigating Conflict in Politics Helps Facilitate Innovation
16:22 - Importance of Agile Regulation
18:47 - Maintaining Economic Leverage
25:46 - Closing

Additional Resources

American Allies Want to Redraw the World’s Trade Map, Minus the U.S

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/13/world/europe/trump-tariffs-trade-europe-us.html

China’s Economy Grows Steadily Despite Trump’s Tariffs

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/14/business/china-economy-gdp-q2.html

ASML and the Dutch Chip Industry

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/05/technology/asml-chips-tariffs-trade.html