The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series
Peter Zeihan
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 the YouTube Channel @zeihanongeopolitics Thanks for listening, and don't forget to subscribe!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 13, 2026 • 7min
Winners and Losers of the Iran War: Ukraine and Russia || Peter Zeihan
A deep look at how Persian Gulf oil export losses are reshaping global markets. Analysis of shifting export vulnerabilities after Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian infrastructure. Exploration of Gulf states and Ukraine building drone and counter-drone industries. Discussion of a possible geopolitical realignment around Russia, Iran and Gulf interests.
Apr 10, 2026 • 9min
The End of the WTO || Peter Zeihan
A deep dive into how the WTO came about and why its consensus rules have frozen global trade liberalization. Discussion of slow adjudication and weak enforcement that undermine the system. Examination of regional consequences: North America's industrial gaps, Europe’s export dependency, Northeast Asia’s demographic export pressure, and Southeast Asia’s relative resilience. Prediction of fast political and economic upheaval ahead.
5 snips
Apr 9, 2026 • 7min
How to End American Power || Peter Zeihan
A sharp take on a presidential call for nations to secure their own oil and the colonial-style consequences that could follow. A look at how abandoning collective security might force allies to rearm and spark interstate fights over resources. An argument that such shifts could swiftly erode American strategic power and remake global geopolitics into a 1930s-style scramble.
8 snips
Apr 8, 2026 • 6min
So You Want to Take Iran's Oil… || Peter Zeihan
A geopolitical tour of Iran’s energy map, from offshore South Pars gas to Khuzestan’s oil fields. Discussion of how seizing infrastructure could cut domestic power and spark humanitarian crisis. Examination of why controlling islands or ports does not equal controlling production. Reflections on ethnic tensions, past occupation failures, and the military realities of attempting to hold territory.
6 snips
Apr 7, 2026 • 3min
Russia Draws American Blood in Iran || Peter Zeihan
A detailed look at a strike on a U.S. base in Saudi Arabia and how defenses were penetrated. Discussion of damage to an AWACS and shrinking interceptor supplies. Examination of how wide-area early warning systems detect drones and missiles. Revelation that Russia supplied real-time targeting data to Iran and the geopolitical fallout that could follow.
5 snips
Apr 6, 2026 • 6min
Can the British Reopen the Strait of Hormuz? || Peter Zeihan
A skeptical take on the British plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz without U.S. help. Discussion about who today can actually project naval power into the Gulf and why navies take years to build. A look at Iran's maritime 'toll' system and the real threat from missiles and drones. Argument that protecting shipping would require coastal control and that only a political deal is realistic.
11 snips
Apr 6, 2026 • 3min
A Flawed Trade System in Europe || Peter Zeihan
A critique of European trade schemes that try to exclude the U.S. Discussion of how global trade depends on U.S. naval power and Europe’s limited maritime reach. Examination of European agricultural protectionism and its effect on dealmaking. Contrast of speedy Australia talks with decades-long ratification fights like Mercosur and Canada.
7 snips
Apr 3, 2026 • 5min
The Strait of Hormuz Remains Open...For Iran || Peter Zeihan
Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is functioning, but only under Iranian control and new clearance rules. Captains face insurance gaps and legal exposure while ships queue outside the Gulf. Iran processes vessels at its ports and collects transit fees that alter regional trade flows and fund military resupply.
16 snips
Apr 2, 2026 • 7min
U.S. Ground Troops Coming to Iran || Peter Zeihan
Discussion of U.S. troop movements toward Iran, including marine and airborne deployments. Breakdown of the forces' composition and limits without heavy armor. Analysis of Karg Island’s strategic importance and the risks of occupying it. Consideration of alternative operations in the Strait of Hormuz and how timing shapes possible actions.
15 snips
Apr 1, 2026 • 4min
The Death of the First-Time Home Buyer || Peter Zeihan
A concise look at why first-time buyers are being priced out and how demographics shape future housing demand. Discussion covers how new construction affects GDP and keeps demand afloat. Exploration of aging homeowners preferring to stay put and how millennial household formation changes the market over time. A warning about higher financing costs as retirements tighten available capital.
