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

In this episode, host Billy Riggs talks with Dr. John (Hans) Gilderbloom who shares his personal journey and insights on housing policy, community engagement, and the health impacts of pollution, along with his wife Carla Snyder who talks about their forthcoming documentary Climate of Hope. The conversation explores the intersection of climate change, urbanism, and social justice, emphasizing the role of technology in addressing environmental challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of creating sustainable solutions that consider the needs of underserved communities and the potential of technology to drive change.

Takeaways

- AI and innovation can significantly enhance environmental solutions.

- Community engagement is crucial for addressing climate challenges.

- Historical context shapes current urban and housing policies.

- Health impacts of pollution are disproportionately felt in marginalized communities.

- Gentrification can lead to investment and revitalization if managed correctly.

- Data-driven approaches are essential for effective urban planning.

- Sustainable living requires collaboration across all levels of society.

- The role of technology in measuring and addressing pollution is vital.

- Creating a legacy for future generations is a shared responsibility.

- Funding and community involvement are key to successful climate initiatives.

Sound Bites

- "We need our communities to create a legacy."

- "We can measure pollution at every block."

- "We need a playbook for sustainable living."

Additional Resources

Climate Chaos: Killing People, Places, and the Planet (2025)

Edited by John Hans Gilderbloom

20% off at the link below

https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/climate-chaos-9781666940510/

Chromatic Homes: The Joy of Color in Historic Places
by John Hans Gilderbloom
https://www.kentuckypress.com/9780813176147/chromatic-homes/

Climate of Hope Documentary Trailer

Climate of Hope Documentary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yotW0FpYCcc&t=2s | https://climateofhopefilm.org/
Email questions, comments or any inquires to carla@carlajsnyder.com

Riggs, W. & Gilderbloom, J. (2016). Two-Way Street Conversion: Evidence of Increased Livability in Louisville. Journal of Planning Education & Research. https://doi.org/10.1177/0739456X15593147

Riggs, W. and Gilderbloom, J. (2015). ‘Two-Ways’ to Fix Our Neighborhoods. Planetizen.com. Retrieved from http://www.planetizen.com/node/75629/two-ways-fix-our-neighborhoods

End of the Road: Reimagining the Street as the Heart of the City
By William Riggs

https://bristoluniversitypress.co.uk/end-of-the-road

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to Rewiring the American Edge
01:02 - Exploring the Intersection of Planning, Design & Automation
03:33 - John Gilderbloom: From Activism to Academia
05:41 - The Impact of Rent Control and Housing Policy
07:28 - Historic Preservation as an Affordable Housing Strategy
09:09 - Rethinking Rental Housing and Urban Studies
09:54 - Reconnecting Through Academia
10:49 - The Book – Climate Chaos
13:10 - The Impact of Pollution on Health
17:06 - Technology's Role in Addressing Urban Issues
19:59 - Engaging Communities for Sustainable Change
22:24 - The Urgency of Climate Action

In this episode, the hosts Billy Riggs and Vipul Vyas talk shop with special guest Lee Riggs and discuss the intersection of innovation, automation, and education in the context of the American economy. They explore the challenges posed by uncertainty and chaos, the role of technology in education, and the need for cities to remain competitive. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparing for inevitable changes and the potential of crises to spur innovation. The hosts also highlight the need for long-term thinking in governance and the evolving landscape of jobs in the face of automation.

Takeaways
- Innovation and automation are crucial for the future of the economy.
- Chaos and uncertainty are normal cycles that require proactive planning.
- Technology is increasingly integrated into education, offering both - benefits and challenges.
- Cities must avoid complacency and adapt to global changes.
- Preparing for inevitable changes is essential for resilience.
- Crisis can drive innovation and technological advancement.
- Long-term thinking is necessary for effective governance.
- The future of jobs will require new skills and adaptability.
- Creativity will be a key differentiator in a world influenced by AI.
- Local resolve and private capital are vital for economic growth.

Sound bites
"Innovation ain't waiting for you."
"Crisis can be a good crisis."
"Innovation is here to stay."

Additional Resources:
Europe Stuck Between US and China
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/06/world/europe/european-union-china-tariffs.html
Who will AI impact most?
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/07/business/ai-job-cuts.html

Chapters
00:00 - Welcome to Rewiring the American Edge
01:45 - Navigating Chaos and Uncertainty
04:56 - The Role of Technology in Education
10:37 - Preparing for Future Changes
15:38 - Innovation as a Growth Engine
20:59 - The Future of Work and Creativity