Global Law and Business: Recent Episodes

View Details

At Harris Bricken, we keep close tabs on what is happening around the world, and we know that our friends and clients do, as well. We are happy to provide this podcast series: Global Law and Business, hosted by international attorneys Fred Rocafort and Jonathan Bench, where we look at the world by talking with business leaders, innovators, service providers, manufacturers, and government leaders around the globe.

In Episode #100, we are joined by Gary O’Sullivan, Irish lawyer and partner at SOS Legal LLP. We discuss:

• Gary’s travels through Latin America
• The services provided by SOS Legal
• Why Ireland is experiencing an inflow of people, after historically being a country of emigrants
• The strong Chinese flavor of Ireland’s immigrant investor program
• Why Ireland is attractive for companies looking for an European Union entry point
• Issues of concern for the Irish

Recommendations

• Gary
  • Visit Ireland, in particular Cork, the west coast, and the Wild Atlantic Way
  • Doing Good Better: Effective Altruism and How You Can Make a Difference, by William MacAskill
    • William MacAskill’s interview on The Tim Ferriss Show (#120)
  • The Future of the Professions: How Technology Will Transform the Work of Human Experts, by Daniel Susskind and Richard Susskind
  • Intermission
• Jonathan
  • Manchester United Legends to Create World’s First Soccer Dao, by Andrew Asmakov (Decrypt)

View Details

At Harris Bricken, we keep close tabs on what is happening around the world, and we know that our friends and clients do, as well. We are happy to provide this podcast series: Global Law and Business, hosted by international attorneys Fred Rocafort and Jonathan Bench, where we look at the world by talking with business leaders, innovators, service providers, manufacturers, and government leaders around the globe.

In Episode #99, we are joined by Jack Hedge, the Executive Director of Utah Inland Port Authority. We discuss:

• Jack's international trade logistics background at the Port of Tacoma and Port of L.A.
• The scale of L.A.'s port compared to all other U.S. ports
• The reasons for the global increase in shipping costs per container
• The current state of international shipping companies and their impact on global trade
• The need for pragmatic and helpful government regulations in dealing with international carriers
• The current state of global energy consumption
• The smart technologies that will change port infrastructures around the world
• What an inland port does
• Utah's unique geographical situation and how it is helping to alleviate pressure on coastal ports
• Recommendations from:
  • Jonathan
    • Manchester United Legends Create World's First Soccer DAO (Decrypt)
  • Fred
    • Sam Harris' Making Sense Podcast - Ask Me Anything #19

We’ll see you next time for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Gary O’Sullivan, Irish lawyer and partner at SOS Legal.

View Details

At Harris Bricken, we keep close tabs on what is happening around the world, and we know that our friends and clients do, as well. We are happy to provide this podcast series: Global Law and Business, hosted by international attorneys Fred Rocafort and Jonathan Bench, where we look at the world by talking with business leaders, innovators, service providers, manufacturers, and government leaders around the globe.

In Episode #98, we are joined by Dr. Jerry Chidester, board-certified plastic surgeon. We discuss:

• Jerry's formative years growing up in Saudi Arabia on a hospital compound during the Persian Gulf War.
• Reasons people come to him as a physician and surgeon.
• Medical necessity vs. beauty standards.
• Contemporary visions of beauty becoming a multicultural and multiracial blend.
• Trends in the plastic surgery world, including non-invasive or minimally-invasive procedures, rapid recovery, and substitutions for traditional surgeries.
• Building his medical practice with social media and becoming a thought leader and influencer within the plastic/cosmetic surgeon community.
• How social media influencers have impacted the plastic surgery industry, including providing additional educational opportunities for potential patients.
• International rhinoplasty experts in Colombia, Turkey, Italy, Australia, and Asia.
• Changing cultural acceptance standards in conservative countries like Saudi Arabia.
• Recommendations from:
  • Jerry
    • Blinkist
    • Book of Boba Fett (Disney+)
  • Jonathan
    • Manchester United Legends to Create World's First Soccer DAO (Decrypt)
  • Fred
    • Canadian Men's National Team on Twitter

View Details

At Harris Bricken, we keep close tabs on what is happening around the world, and we know that our friends and clients do, as well. We are happy to provide this podcast series: Global Law and Business, hosted by international attorneys Fred Rocafort and Jonathan Bench, where we look at the world by talking with business leaders, innovators, service providers, manufacturers, and government leaders around the globe.

In Episode #97, we are joined by Jack Rhysider, host of the Darknet Diaries podcast. We discuss:

• Jack's background as an information security professional
• The passion for podcasts that led to Darknet Diaries
• How the proliferation of electronic devices both facilitates and compromises security
• Hackers
• The need for legal upgrades to better address cyber threats
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Jack
    • Sandworm: A New Era of Cyberwar and the Hunt for the Kremlin's Most Dangerous Hackers, by Andy Greenberg
    • Countdown to Zero Day: Stuxnet and the Launch of the World's First Digital Weapon, by Kim Zetter
    • This Is How They Tell Me the World Ends: The Cyberweapons Arms Race, by Nicole Perlroth
    • Black Duck Eggs (Darknet Diaries)
    • Project Raven (Darknet Diaries)
  • Jonathan
    • Alula Adventures
  • Fred
    • MDMA Could Help Cure PTSD (VICE News)

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Jerry Chidester, board-certified plastic surgeon!

View Details

At Harris Bricken, we keep close tabs on what is happening around the world, and we know that our friends and clients do, as well. We are happy to provide this podcast series: Global Law and Business, hosted by international attorneys Fred Rocafort and Jonathan Bench, where we look at the world by talking with business leaders, innovators, service providers, manufacturers, and government leaders around the globe.

In Episode #96, we are joined by Dami Adepoju, Director of Development, West Africa at Marriott International. We discuss:

• Dami's path from Brooklyn to Lagos.
• The aspirational nature of contemporary Nigerians.
• West Africa's diversity.
• The challenges behind hotel development in the region.
• COVID-19 impact's on business activities.
• An insider's take on happening Lagos.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Dami
    • Visit Nigeria (ideally during Detty December)
    • Butter Honey Pig Bread, by Francesca Ekwuyasi
  • Jonathan
    • "Web3 is the future, or a scam, or both" (Vox), by Peter Kafka
  • Fred
    • Heresy Financial (YouTube)

View Details

At Harris Bricken, we keep close tabs on what is happening around the world, and we know that our friends and clients do, as well. We are happy to provide this podcast series: Global Law and Business, hosted by international attorneys Fred Rocafort and Jonathan Bench, where we look at the world by talking with business leaders, innovators, service providers, manufacturers, and government leaders around the globe.

In Episode #95, we are joined by Ryan Ansin, Co-Founder of Revolutionary Clinics. We discuss:

• The evolution of the cannabis industry
• Why it’s harder to succeed in the cannabis space than in any other
• Ryan’s efforts to help cannabis companies source ethically
• Why entrepreneurship can be a “poison”
• How Ryan’s interest in social justice dovetails with his business activities
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Ryan
    • Tuxedo Park, by Jennet Conant
    • Robinhood Snacks
    • The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less, by Barry Schwartz
    • The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance, by Joshua Waitzkin
  • Jonathan
    • “You will have a digital avatar sooner than you think,” by Jennifer Alsever (Utah Business)
    • “NFT Community Dismayed By RTFKT Sale To Nike, While Noting Pre-Sale Shady Behavior” (Snobette)
  • Fred
    • “Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and copyright,” by Andres Guadamuz (WIPO Magazine)
    • Psychedelics Law Blog

View Details

In Episode #94, we are joined by Rodolphe Ruffié, Senior Associate at Clifford Chance. We discuss:

• High-stakes cross-border disputes, including WTO disputes and award enforcement proceedings.
• Public international law vs. private international law.
• Companies suing countries.
• E-sports and space law.
• China investing in Australian mining companies with African operations.
• How mining law is both technical and political in nature.
• Western Australia's isolation and unique identity.
• Rodolphe's travels from his French roots to the U.S., Western Australia, and New Zealand.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Rodolphe
    • Final Fantasy – Remake of Final Fantasy VII on Playstation 4 and 5
  • Jonathan
    • "Meet Bethany and Seth Mandel, the D.C. power couple out to popularize ‘Big Family’," by Jennifer Graham, Deseret News
  • Fred
    • "What Are We Doing?," by Jonathan Malesic, Notre Dame Magazine

View Details

In Episode #93, we are joined by Dan McLeod and Mark Plum, directors at East West Associates. We discuss:

• Dan and Mark's experiences in an emerging Asia.
• Changing dynamics regarding manufacturing in China.
• Evolving views on Section 301 tariffs.
• COVID-19's impact on those doing business in or with China.
• The keys to a smooth transition out of China.
• Southeast Asia's China competitors.
• The pros and cons of Mexico sourcing.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Mark Plum
    • Keep an eye out for China's 2022 20th Party Congress
  • Dan McLeod
    • IP Protection
    • "Made in China 2025"
  • Jonathan
    • Zeihan on Geopolitics
  • Fred
    • CUHK webinars

View Details

In Episode #92, we are joined by Aman Thakker, Senior Programs Manager at Indiaspora, a nonprofit organization of global Indian origin leaders committed to inspiring the diaspora to be a force for good by providing a platform to collaborate, build community engagement, and catalyze social change. We discuss:

• Indialogue, which is Aman's newsletter covering India's current economic and political developments.
• Aman growing up in India, leaving India, and then returning to India through his academic focus.
• What it is like to work at a think tank, especially having honest discussions behind closed doors on how to educate the public on difficult issues.
• Cooperation between U.S. and India in defense matters.
• Cooperation between Indian and U.S. states.
• India's overall scorecard over the last 20 years, including limitations like corruption, India's religious vs. secular split, and insufficient reforms.
• India's relationship with China and Russia.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Aman
    • • War and Peace in Modern India: A Strategic History of the Nehru Years by Srinath Raghavan
      • The Fateful Triangle by Tanvi Madan
      • The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
  • Jonathan
    • The Deep Dish Podcast
  • Fred
    • Indialogue Newsletter by Aman Thakker
    • House of Secrets: The Brari Deaths (Netflix)

View Details

In Episode #91, we are joined by Gregor McQueen, Founder and CEO of McQueen Associates. This episode was recorded at the end of October 2021. Events since then are not addressed in this podcast. We discuss:

• What geopolitical risk means.
• The difference between black swans and gray rhinos.
• How McQueen Associates helps clients manage geopolitical risks.
• Thought leaders in geopolitical risk management.
• Diversification from China through the risk management lens.
• Pandemics and risk.
• Risks on the horizon.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Gregor
    • My wish: Help me stop pandemics (TED Talk), by Dr. Larry Brilliant
    • The Long Game: China's Grand Strategy to Displace American Order, by Rush Doshi
    • China Law Blog
      • In particular, 'Who Owns "Your" Overseas Factory and Why It Really Matters,' by Dan Harris
      • "Shelter Manufacturing in Mexico: Back by Popular Demand," by Adrián Cisneros Aguilar
      • '"Mexico Is the New China" and Manufacturers Are Moving There,' by Dan Harris
  • Jonathan
    • Nouri app
  • Fred
    • The Taiwan Gazette
      • In particular, 'Thinking Outside the Pot: The Relationship Between Taiwan and the Steam Rice Cooker,' by Qin Xian Yu (translated by Hon Yee Tong and edited by Sabrina Chung)

View Details

In Episode #90, we are joined by Karim Anjarwalla, Managing Partner at Anjarwalla & Khanna. We discuss:

• Karim’s work as an international business lawyer in Kenya, where he was recently recognized as the Kenyan Lawyer of the Year
• One transaction that was significant enough to move the Kenyan currency against the USD
• Kenya as the most open sub-Saharan economy to foreign investors
• The activities of private equity funds like Helios, African Best, DPI, and many others that are focused solely on African investments
• The attractiveness of Nairobi vs. Johannesburg
• The African Growth and Opportunities Act
• The Africa Continental Free Trade Area
• Nairobi, Lagos, Cairo, and Johannesburg as hubs for fintech and agritech
• How the new generation of successful African entrepreneurs approach their wealth and social responsibility to solve deep-seated social problems in Africa
• How African lawyers are perceived by their clients as trusted advisors beyond legal skills
• The vast difference in the regulatory experience of civil servants
• How investors and businesses should not make the mistake of treating Africa as one market
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Karim
    • Tanzania Nobel Prize for Literature (Abdul Razak Gurna)
    • Theelephant.info
    • Visit Bofa Beach Kilifi
  • Jonathan
    • Grantchester (Amazon Prime / BBC / PBS)
  • Fred
    • The Triumph and Terror of Wang Huning by N.S. Lyons, Palladium (Oct. 11, 2021)

View Details

In Episode #89, we are joined by Akshat Divatia, an immigration attorney at Harris Bricken. We discuss:

• How Akshat's experience as an immigrant and time abroad impact the way he helps clients through the U.S. immigration process
• An overview of the U.S. immigration system's types of visas
• The U.S. immigration system vs. other countries
• The worldwide talent pool impacting the U.S.'s ability to compete worldwide
• Changes to U.S. immigration policy from the Biden Administration
• Global immigration trends and immigrant flows
• Akshat's experiences living in Argentina and Spain
• Recommendations from:
  • Akshat
    • Libby app for audiobooks
    • The Culture Map by Erin Meyer
  • Fred
    • Chief MAKOi's Youtube channel on living a seafarer's life
  • Jonathan
    • Weighing the Pros and Cons of Doing Business in Xi Jinping's China by Gregor McQueen (Directorship)

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Karim Anjarwalla, Managing Partner at Anjarwalla & Khanna!

View Details

In Episode #88, we are joined by Federico A. de Jesús, Principal at FDJ Solutions. We discuss:

• Federico's early days in Puerto Rico and American University in Washington, DC
• Working for Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi and the Obama Administration
• An insider's take on CODELs (congressional delegations)
• A critical look at US policy toward Latin America
• Why Federico decided to start his own consulting firm
• Recommendations from:
  • Federico
    • Building professional relationships
    • Collaborate and communicate with people on the other side of the aisle
  • Fred
    • Spitting Image on YouTube

View Details

At Harris Bricken, we keep close tabs on what is happening around the world, and we know that our friends and clients do, as well. We are happy to provide this podcast series: Global Law and Business, hosted by international attorneys Fred Rocafort and Jonathan Bench, where we look at the world by talking with business leaders, innovators, service providers, manufacturers, and government leaders around the world.

In Episode #87, Jonathan and Fred look back at the podcast’s second year and look ahead at 2022.

Some of the highlights:

• Covid's impact, especially on developing nations with reduced healthcare infrastructure compared to developing nations;
• China perils and promise;
• Cannabis development in the U.S. and internationally;
• Blockchain and cryptocurrencies;
• An appeal for guest and topic recommendations; and
• The most downloaded episodes of 2021
  1. Episode 65 – Natalie O’Regan (Cannabis in Ireland)
  2. Episode 64 – Simon Igelman (Technology in Law & International Trade)
  3. Episode 67 – Enrique Martinez (Crypto and Blockchain)

We look forward to your continued listenership in 2022!

View Details

In Episode #86, we are joined by Eli Neal, principal at 4 Corners Financial Forensics. We discuss:

• How IRS 280E impacts cannabis business valuations, especially retail marijuana shops.
• What factors are key in determining cannabis business value, whether you are using the income, market, or asset approach.
• What do you do when your business partners do not keep good financial records and how to recreate financial statements from receipts and bank statements (if there are any).
• How Eli developed clientele in his mid-20s when competing with larger accounting firms.
• The bet way for business owners to avoid a valuation fight (hint: the shotgun approach generally works best with one joint appraisal rather than competing appraisals)
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Eli
    • Think about Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a possibility
  • Jonathan
    • An open letter to businesses about diversity, Utah Business, by Roy Banks

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Federico A. de Jesús, Principal at FDJ Solutions!

View Details

In Episode #85, we are joined by Associate Professor Elena Sychenko, from Saint Petersburg State University in Russia. We discuss:

• The origins of Elena's interests in human and labor rights.
• Why it's important to not just win cases, but also reconstruct systems.
• Elena's thoughts on Sicily, where she spent time studying at the University of Catania.
• The challenging and terrifying experience of working on a report on forced labor in Pakistan.
• Educating Russian law students on Chinese law.
• The broader Russia-China relationship.
• Basics of the Russian legal system.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Elena
    • American Factory (Netflix)
    • The Dream of the Celt by Mario Vargas Llosa
  • Fred
    • Squid Game (Netflix)

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Eli Neal, principal at 4 Corners Financial Forensics!

View Details

In Episode #84, we are joined by Weston Konishi, President of the Sake Brewers Association of North America (SBANA). We discuss:

• How a long stint in Japan led to a passion for sake
• Weston's work with the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation
• The U.S.-Japan relationship
• Fumio Kishida's ascension to Japan's premiership
• How craft beer paved the way for sake in America
• SBANA's mission
• What the future holds for the U.S. sake industry
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Weston
    • Sake Recs:
      • Narutotai Ginjo Nama Genshu Sake
      • Dassai 45 Dassai Junmai Daiginjo
      • Domestic sake brewers
    • Kampai! For the Love of Sake (Amazon Prime)
    • The Birth of Saké (Amazon Prime)
  • Jonathan
    • "A ninja with a sword assailed a U.S. Army special operations unit in California," NPR, by Bill Chappell
  • Fred
    • Searching For Sugar Man (Amazon Prime)

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Elena Sychenko, from Saint Petersburg State University in Russia!

View Details

In Episode #83, we are joined by Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law at Seattle University, author, and attorney. We discuss:

• The hierarchy of India's court system, from state courts to high courts to the Indian Supreme Court with 34 sitting judges
• The recent appointment of three female judges to the Indian Supreme Court (but a significant disparity remains)
• India's first female chief justice
• Indian litigation vs. arbitration
• Judicial appointments and the significant turnover compared to the U.S. Supreme Court
• The increase of more women CEOs in Indian and its legal profession (higher percentages than the U.S.)
• Where India still has room for improvement
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Sital
    • Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death, and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity by Katherine Boo
    • Gully Boy on Amazon Prime
  • Jonathan
    • WomanStats
    • Country Notes (Council on Foundations)
  • Fred
    • The Americans on FX

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Weston Konishi, Former Director of Partnerships and Development at U.S.-Japan Council!

View Details

In Episode #82, we are joined by Robert Lamb, a Harris Bricken international attorney. We discuss:

• Current challenges with international supply chains
• The components of supply chain finance, including the various types of letters of credit
• Rob's insights into China's developments since it joined the WTO
• The diminishing skill of thinking deeply
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Robert
    • The Immortality Key: Uncovering the Secret History of the Religion with No Name by Brian C. Muraresku
    • The Birth of Tragedy by Friedrich Nietzsche
    • Beyond Good and Evil by Friedrich Nietzsche
    • The Marriage of Heaven and Hell by William Blake
  • Jonathan
    • Dilbert by Scott Adams
    • The Far Side by Gary Larson
    • XKCD Comics
  • Fred
    • "The "Lost Outlying Island" of the Tachen Diaspora" by Kai-yang Huang

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Sital Kalantry to discuss India's fascinating Supreme Court!

View Details

In Episode #81, we are joined by David Sargsyan, partner at Ameria. We discuss:

• Armenia's economy today, including its emergence as a tech hub.
• The synergies between China and Armenia.
• An overview of Armenian culture.
• The role played by diaspora Armenians in the country.
• What prompted David to attend Notre Dame Law School (Fred's alma mater!).
• The path ahead for Armenian law firms.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • David
    • AmCham Armenia
    • Men Without Women, by Haruki Murakami
  • Jonathan
    • "Societies that treat women badly are poorer and less stable" (The Economist)
  • Fred
    • The Jaded Cynic, newsletter by Roberto De Vido

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Sital Kalantry to discuss India's fascinating Supreme Court!

View Details

In Episode #80, we are joined by Gregory Schaffer, author of Emerging Powers and the World Trading System. We discuss:

• Greg's career path, from an early interest in history and foreign affairs to being a regular visitor at the WTO in Geneva.
• How the development of international trade law capacities helped make Brazil, China, and India supporters of the international trade system established at the behest of the United States.
• Was China's accession to the WTO cause or effect?
• What consitutes international trade law capacity? What role do lawyers play?
• The U.S.'s paradoxical shift from shaper of the international trade system to revisionist power that undermines said system.
• Emerging powers in the international trade law sphere.
• The economic Cold War between China and the United States.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Greg
    • Country Driving and Oracle Bones, by Peter Hessler
  • Jonathan
    • Emerging Powers and the World Trading System: The Past and Future of International Economic Law, by Gregory Shaffer
    • "'Reversing Gears': China Increasingly Rejects English, and the World," The New York Times, by Li Yuan
  • Fred
    • "How the Bobos Broke America," The Atlantic, by David Brooks
    • River Town, by Peter Hessler

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with David Sargsyan to learn more about Armenia.

View Details

In Episode #79, we are joined by Marco Algorta, Public Relations Manager at Khiron Life Sciences and a cannabis activist in Uruguay. We discuss:

• Why Marco is less bullish about Uruguay's cannabis sector than he was a few years ago.
• Uruguay's strengths and weaknesses as a cannabis actor.
• What Uruguay needs to do to get its canna mojo back.
• Uruguay's broader political and economic environment.
• Colombia and other countries to watch in Latam when it comes to cannabis.
• Marco's experience setting up CannaPur and selling it to Khiron.
• What makes canna startups thrive (or fail).
• Regional differences in Marco's native Brazil.
• Uruguay's outsized role in world football/soccer.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Marco
    • Don Quijote de la Mancha, by Miguel de Cervantes
  • Jonathan
    • Five Kingdoms, by Brandon Mull
  • Fred
    • Red Roulette: An Insider's Story of Wealth, Power, Corruption, and Vengeance in Today's China, by Desmond Shum

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Gregory Schaffer, author of Emerging Powers and the World Trading System.

View Details

In Episode #78, we are joined by Mareo McCracken, Chief Customer Officer/CRO at Movemedical.

We discuss:

• Mareo's voracious reading habits
• What's different between and what's consistent across sales environments around the world
• How Mareo's company, MoveMedical, "solves" the medical device industry
• Dealing with rejection
• Mareo's upcoming book, Really Care for Them: How Everyone Can Use the Power of Caring to Earn Trust, Grow Sales, and Increase Income. No Matter What You Sell or Who You Sell It To

• Listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Mareo
    • Sell Different by Lee Sales
    • The Big Leap – Gay Hendricks
    • Conscious Luck – Gay Hendricks
• • Jonathan - My Road to Cancellation by Joel Peterson
  • Fred
    • Turning Point: 9/11 and the War on Terror on Netflix

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Marco Algorta, Public Relations Manager at Khiron Life Sciences and a cannabis activist in Uruguay.

View Details

In Episode #77, we are joined by Jayesh Kothari, associate partner at DSK Legal’s Mumbai office.

We discuss:

• Why foreign companies should consider investing in India
• The role of democracy in making India an attractive business destination
• India's steps to speed up dispute resolution, particularly arbitration
• Preferred and up-and-coming destinations for foreign investment
• The impact of COVID-19 on the Indian economy
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Jayesh
    • You Can Win by Shiv Khera
    • Coffee Can Investing: The Low Risk Road to Stupendous Wealth by Saurabh Mukherjea
  • Fred
    • The Internet Country by Aaryaman Vir and Rahul Sanghi

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Mareo McCracken, Chief Customer Officer/CRO at Movemedical, to talk about international sales.

View Details

In Episode #76, we are joined by Andrew Hupert, professor at Hult International Business School.

We discuss:

• The China where anything was possible, but nothing was easy
• Why there is no going back to "normal" when it comes to China
• How manufacturing destinations like Vietnam, Thailand and Mexico compare (or don't) to China
• China's increasing influence in Latin America
• How neglect of domestic infrastructure complicates U.S. foreign policy
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Andrew
    • Globalism 2.0, podcast hosted by Andrew Hupert
    • Mexico News Daily
    • MexicoNOW
    • Vietnamnet
    • The Business Times - Singapore
  • Jonathan
    • Honest Movie Trailers on YouTube
  • Fred
    • Meth, Vanilla and ‘Gulags’: How China Has Overtaken the South Pacific One Island at a Time, Politico, by Susanna Luthi

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Jayesh Kothari, associate partner at DSK Legal's Mumbai office to discuss India.

View Details

In Episode #75, we are joined by Ilya Umanskiy, director of the Current Consulting Group.

We discuss:

• Ilya's path from Moscow to New York City to Hong Kong
• Case study: Managing a high net-worth family's reputational risks
• Lessons from the Afghanistan withdrawal
• How long stints in Hong Kong help Ilya design solutions in a culturally sensitive way
• The importance of mentorship
• How universities are letting youth down
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Ilya
    • Upstream: The Quest to Solve Problems Before They Happen by Dan Heath
    • Normal Accidents: Living with High-Risk Technologies by Charles Perrow
  • Jonathan
    • SupChina Newsletter
  • Fred
    • Sky News on YouTube

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Andrew Hupert, professor at Hult International Business School, to discuss his experiences in China, Vietnam, and Mexico, and more!

View Details

In Episode #74, we are joined by Luis Martínez, the Director of the Southeast Energy, Climate and Clean Energy Program at Natural Resources Defense Council.

We discuss:

• How Luis' desire to be the next Jacques Costeau led to a career in environmental law
• Luis' time at the Puerto Rico Environmental Quality Board and his advocacy in support of Vieques cleanup efforts
• The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which Luis helped design
• Shifting political winds on climate policy
• How the devastation wreaked by Hurricane Maria sparked a conversation on energy resiliency in Puerto Rico
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Luis
    • Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
    • Ted Lasso on Apple TV+
  • Jonathan
    • Darknet Diaries podcast
  • Fred
    • Making Sense podcast with Sam Harris - Episode #258 - The Fall of Afghanistan: A Conversation with Peter Bergen

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Ilya Umanskiy, director of the Current Consulting Group, to discuss risk management, asset protection, and related topics.

View Details

In Episode #73, we are joined by Attorney-Advisor at the U.S. Department of State, Niels Von Deuten.

We discuss:

• The role of State Department lawyers
• How the Department's legal office, aka "L", is organized
• The difference between L and the legal attaches posted at U.S. missions abroad
• Niels' diverse assignments, from representing the Department on employment matters, to supporting the bureaus in charge of African and Near Eastern affairs
• Clerking for both trial and appeals judges
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Niels
    • A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine
  • Jonathan
    • Foreign Policy’s Africa Brief
  • Fred
    • CIA’s Former Counterterrorism Chief for the Region: Afghanistan Not an Intelligence Failure. It’s Much Worse
    • Cocaine Cowboys: The Kings of Miami on Netflix

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Luis Martínez, the director of the Southeast energy, climate, and clean energy program at Natural Resources Defense Council.

View Details

In Episode #72, we are joined by Kelly Sullivan, the current head track and field coach at Seattle University and former Team USA coach.

We discuss:

• Kelly's experiences mentoring 23 Division III All-American athletes
• Coaching at the World Track and Field Championships and the Olympic Festival
• Preparing athletes for competition beyond colleges and universities
• Traveling extensively overseas and engaging with coaches and athletes from around the world
• Whether elite athletes are "born with" innate excellence inside them
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Kelly
    • Stillness Is the Key by Ryan Holiday
    • Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
    • Chasing Excellence by Pat Melgares
  • Jonathan
    • All Round Champion on BYU TV
  • Fred
    • Sam Harris' Making Sense Podcast - Episode #256 - A Contagion of Bad Ideas

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Niels Von Deuten, Attorney-Advisor at the U.S. Department of State.

View Details

In Episode #71, we are joined by Taiwanese cannabis lawyer Zoe Lee, of Better Call Zoe fame.

We discuss:

• Zoe's path to becoming Taiwan's best-known cannabis lawyer, and what her docket looks like.
• The legal status of cannabis and CBD in Taiwan.
• Zoe's inspirations for her podcast, In the Weeds.
• Legalization efforts in Taiwan and Zoe's prediction on when legalization will come about.
• The incongruity between Taiwan's progressive ethos and the country's restrictive cannabis laws.
• Zoe's foray into politics with the Green Party Taiwan, and the views on cannabis of Taiwan's mainstream parties.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Zoe
    • Zoe's podcast, In the Weeds
    • The Taiwan Take podcast
    • Grass is Greener (Netflix)
    • Have a Good Trip Adventures in Psychedelics (Netflix)
  • Jonathan
    • Foreign Policy South Asia Brief
  • Fred
    • The Endless Trench (Netflix)

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Kelly Sullivan, Seattle University's head track and field coach.

View Details

In Episode #70, we are joined by Robert Fatton Jr., the Julia A. Cooper Professor of Government and Foreign Affairs in the Department of Politics at the University of Virginia and one of the foremost experts on Haiti.

We discuss:

• Prof. Fatton's path from Port-au-Prince to Charlottesville
• Our guest's experience as a sportscaster during Haiti's 1974 World Cup appearance and how he became a Real Madrid fan
• Why the Haitian Revolution is a fundamental event in world history, which shapes Haiti to this day
• The 1915-1934 U.S. occupation of Haiti
• The mysteries surrounding the recent assassination of President Jovenel Moïse
• Haiti's challenges ahead
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Robert
    • The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L'Ouverture and the San Domingo Revolution by C. L. R. James
    • Avengers of the New World by Laurent Dubois
    • Exterminate All the Brutes, a documentary series by acclaimed filmmaker Raoul Peck
    • Rhum Barbancourt
  • Jonathan
    • Ban on transgender athletes in girls sports stalls in Utah Senate committee, Deseret News
  • Fred
    • The Side of Haiti You've Never Seen
    • Barbancourt over ice cream (H/T Joe Callahan)

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Zoe Lee, Taiwan's pioneering cannabis lawyer!

View Details

In Episode #69, we are joined by Andrew Peaple, editor at The Wire China, and co-founder and presenter of the Asia Matters podcast.

We discuss:

• Andrew's journalism career, including a 16-year stint at The Wall Street Journal.
• The JET Program and why it represents a soft power triumph for Japan.
• How journalism has been impacted by the growth of the public relations industry, as well as the emergence of social media.
• Asia Matters, and how it was partly motivated by existing gaps in non-China Asia coverage.
• The importance of understanding how Asians are interacting with each other - not just DC thinktank perspectives.
• The culture shock of returning to the UK after many years abroad.
• Brexit and Britain's importation of the American culture wars.
• What it means if someone in the UK compares you to Marmite.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Andrew
    • In Our Time (BBC podcast)
    • Invisible China, by Scott Rozelle and Natalie Hell
  • Fred
    • Asia Matters, of course!

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Robert Fatton Jr., one of the foremost experts on Haiti.

View Details

In Episode #68, we are joined by Sam White, serial entrepreneur and CEO at Freedom Services Group, a UK-based insurance agency.

We discuss:

• How Sam's first job at a car insurance brokerage led to starting her own international insurance group focused on women.
• Data bias against women in insurance and medical science, including male drug testing, seatbelts designed for the male torso, financial services, and insurance policy coverage language focused more on golf clubs than baby equipment and handbags.
• Insurance liability limits across oceans.
• Australia's win-win business environment compared to the U.S. and U.K.'s win-lose environment.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Sam
    • Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Pérez
    • Everything is F*cked: A Book About Hope by Mark Manson
    • The Chimp Paradox: The Acclaimed Mind Management Programme to Help You Achieve Success, Confidence and Happiness by Steve Peters
  • Fred
    • Corridos, POLITICO Canadian focused newsletter
  • Jonathan
    • Agatha Christie's Ordeal By Innocence stream on Amazon
    • Agatha Christie's The Pale Horse stream on Amazon
    • Agatha Christie's The ABC Murders stream on Amazon

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Andrew Peaple from Asia Matters Podcast!

View Details

In Episode #67, we are joined by Enrique Martinez, CEO and founder of WebCapitalists Corp., a cryptocurrency and blockchain consulting company.

We discuss:

• Why an aerospace engineer became an early adopter of Bitcoin.
• The Byzantine Generals Problem and what it tells us about blockchain.
• How Hurricane Maria and the devastation it brought about in his native Puerto Rico made Enrique a more vocal technologist for crypto.
• Blockchain's applications to fields as varied as healthcare and art sales.
• Enrique's work with retired athletes looking to earn revenue by tokenizing their collectibles.
• Why ticket scalpers need to be beware of blockchain.
• Criticisms of crypto.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Enrique
    • Bitcoin White Paper by Satoshi Nakamoto
    • The Bitcoin Standard: The Decentralized Alternative to Central Banking by Saifedean Ammous
    • Stay up to date with Wyoming's cryptocurrency
    • Stay up to date with Miami's cryptocurrency
    • Bitcoin.org
    • Stay up to date with Twitter CEO, Jack Dorsey
  • Fred
    • Global Law and Business Episode 47 – James Cooper (Intellectual Property and Blockchain)
    • The China History Podcast
  • Jonathan
    • "The secret economics of a VIP party," The Economist, by Ashley Mears

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Sam White to discuss the insurance world, the differing work styles across the Anglosphere, and more!

View Details

In Episode #66, we are joined by Chris Campbell, in-house attorney for Baker Hughes and Tales of The Tribunal podcast host.

We discuss:

• The evolution of Chris's podcast, Tales of The Tribunal
• Risotto, wine, and sunshine - or how Chris ended up in Italy
• A lawyer's perspective on the oil and gas industry
• The pros and cons of working as in-house counsel
• Chris's education in China and experience working on China-related matters
• Up-and-coming fields of law
• Recommendations from Tales of the Tribunal
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Chris
    • Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know About the People We Don’t Know by Malcolm Gladwell
    • High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America (Netflix)
  • Fred
    • Revisionist History by Malcom Gladwell
  • Andrew Smith (guest host)
    • "Advancing sustainable development with FDI: Why policy must be reset," Hinrich Foundation, by Simon J. Evenett and Johannes Fritz

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Enrique Martinez to discuss global cryptocurrency markets!

View Details

In Episode #65, we are joined by Natalie O’Regan, a cannabis activist in Ireland.

We discuss:

• The state of cannabis legislation in Ireland.
• Natalie's research on drug policy.
• The "hamster wheel" of stigma in the context of drugs.
• Society's need for labeling and its connection to cannabis laws.
• Ireland's road ahead toward cannabis legalization.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Natalie
    • Chasing the Scream: The First and Last Days of the War on Drugs by Johann Hari
    • Drug Use for Grown-Ups: Chasing Liberty in the Land of Fear by Carl Hart
  • Fred
    • Screen your calls before you answer them
    • DarkHorse Podcast with hosts Bret Weinstein and Dr. Heather Heying
  • Jonathan
    • 2020 U.S. Olympic Trials on YouTube
    • 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Chris Campbell to discuss his The Tales of the Tribunal Podcast, and much more!

View Details

In Episode #64, we are joined by Simon Igelman, an international business associate at Garfinkle Biderman LLP, a Canadian-based law firm.

We discuss:

• Simon's background in technology and how he created his website Trade Law Report that pulls the most up to date online chatter about international trade from around the web, including Twitter.
• Balancing artificial intelligence (AI) advances and legal concerns.
• The process of becoming a lawyer in Canada, including articling.
• International trade in Canada and how it varies from but is largely intertwined with the United States.
• Covid-19's impact on timber prices in the United States and Canada.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Simon
    • Trade Law Report
    • World Trade Law: Text, Materials and Commentary by Simon Lester, Bryan Mercurio, Arwel Davies
    • All the Shah's Men: An American Coup and the Roots of Middle East Terror by Stephen Kinzer
  • Fred
    • "How Academic Freedom Ends" by Timothy McLaughlin, The Atlantic
  • Jonathan
    • "Why is Lumber So Expensive? And when will things get back to normal?" by Ben Sprague, Substack

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Natalie O'Regan to discuss cannabis in Ireland.

View Details

In Episode #63, we are joined by Alberto Villarreal, Managing Director at Nepanoa Transformation Advisory.

We discuss:

• An inside look at international consulting firms.
• Latin America (LatAm) as a marketplace and for back office or company operations.
• LatAm's talented labor force and affinity for Western-style work culture.
• Concerns for a company looking at utilizing LatAm, including security and costs.
• Why companies with strong culture generally have an easier time establishing themselves in LatAm.
• Advice for people considering a consulting career and pursuing an MBA at the University of Chicago.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Alberto
    • Follow the U.S.-Mexico Foundation
    • Piece of advice, "Don't be afraid to work internationally."
  • Adrián
    • The Cheat Code: Going Off Script to Get More and Go Faster by Brian Wong
    • La Ingenieria de la Exportacion, by Nicola Minervini
  • Jonathan
    • The Spy Who Came In from the Cold by John le Carré

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Simon Igelman, as we discuss technology in law and international trade.

View Details

In Episode #62, we are joined by Azhelle Wade, The Toy Coach.

We discuss:

• How a passion for working with children led to a career in toy design and development.
• The importance of market research for aspiring toymakers.
• Legal concerns for toymakers, including intellectual property and testing.
• Toys as a case study in the importance of protecting molds when manufacturing overseas.
• What toy entrepreneurs doing business in China can expect.
• The difficulties of reshoring toy production.
• Salsa, bachata, and the joy of dancing across language barriers.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Azhelle
    • Online Marketing Made Easy, podcast by Amy Porterfield
    • The Toy Coach Podcast
    • The Toy Coach Instagram
    • Toy Creators Academy
  • Fred
    • Dunkirk
  • Jonathan
    • "Manufacturing costs are rising," by Jared Van Orden, Utah Business

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Alberto Villarreal, as we discuss business expansion and barriers in Latin America.

View Details

In Episode #61, we are joined by Andrew House, partner and co-leader of the national security team at Fasken.

We discuss:

• Andrew's career trajectory, from criminal defense work in Halifax to Canada's national security establishment in Ottawa.
• The challenges of working in post-conflict Kosovo.
• Foreign investment reviews in Canada, and the outsized role of America's concerns.
• Why legal knowledge is beneficial when working in government relations.
• The shifting tides of Canada's COVID experience, and why the pandemic constitutes a healthy wake-up call on Canada's industrial base.
• Canada's challenges in its relationship with China.
• Key differences between Canadian and U.S. officialdoms.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Andrew
    • The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, by William L. Shirer
    • Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, by Doris Kearns Goodwin
    • The Comey Rule, on Showtime
  • Fred
    • "Gargantuanisation," by John Lanchester, London Review of Books
  • Jonathan
    • Why Does the C.I.A. Need Puppets?, on Sway, New York Times podcast

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Azhelle Wade, AKA The Toy Coach!

View Details

In Episode #60, we are joined by Hector Correa, of Smart Strikes Consulting.

We discuss:

• Hector's jump from computer science to consulting.
• How a focus on tech solutions might distract from deeper inefficiencies.
• The advantages Mexico presents to foreign companies.
• Misconceptions concerning safety issues in Mexico.
• Mexico's creative industries.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Hector
    • Are Your Lights On? by Gerald Weinberg
    • US-Mexico Business Association (AEM)
  • Fred
    • "The origin of COVID: Did people or nature open Pandora’s box at Wuhan?," Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, by Nicholas Wade
  • Jonathan
    • Disunited Nations: Succeeding in a World Where No One Gets Along by Peter Zeihan

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Andrew House to discuss his experience working in Canada's national security establishment (and more).

View Details

In Episode #59, we are joined by Joe McCall, managing partner at Byrne & McCall, an Irish accountancy firm.

We discuss:

• Brexit's impact on Ireland, including efforts by companies to diversify from the large UK market.
• What makes Ireland attractive to companies setting up HQ or R&D facilities.
• Which US industries are heading to Ireland.
• An Irish counterpoint to US-led efforts to establish a global minimum tax rate.
• Why Ireland is heading into another Celtic Tiger era.
• How the Emerald Isle has weathered the COVID storm.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Joe
    • Ireland and the EU Post Brexit, by Ray Bassett
    • Brexit: The Movie
  • Fred
    • "Bridging the Gulf: why Greece is making new friends in the Middle East," The Times

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Hector Correa to talk about Mexico.

View Details

In Episode #58, we are joined by Dr. Elizabeth Freund Larus, chairman of the University of Mary Washington's Political Science and International Affairs Department and author of Politics and Society in Contemporary China.

We discuss:

• China relations at a time when we know the country "won't morph into a more liberal polity."
• The pragmatic origins of Dr. Larus' interest in China.
• Taiwan's foreign relations, and why America wants other countries to recognize Taipei (even if it doesn't officially do so itself).
• The Belt and Road Initiative's impact on Central and Eastern Europe, and why China and Russia don't see eye to eye on the subject.
• Why Dr. Larus expects China to get "stronger and stronger" … till demographics get in the way.
• Advice for those interested in foreign affairs, including unexpected paths such as hospitality.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Dr. Larus
    • Her Politics and Society in Contemporary China
  • Jonathan
    • China 2021 Trends White Paper (China Skinny)
  • Fred
    • @relevantorgans

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Joe McCall to discuss what's happening in the Emerald Isle!

View Details

In Episode #57, we are joined by Moses Wanki Park, a barrister and international arbitration attorney at Hong Kong's Liberty Chambers.

We discuss:

• How Moses' service as an officer in the Korean Navy helped instill discipline and the ability to work under pressure.
• South Korean views of North Korea.
• Why Moses chose to study and work in Hong Kong.
• Wigs!
• How there is no such thing as a typical day at work for Moses.
• Some representative matters handled by Moses.
• What's happening in Korea these days, including its handling of the pandemic.
• The relationship between barristers and solicitors in Hong Kong.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Moses
    • Billions (Netflix)
  • Jonathan
    • "China’s Digital Currency Threatens America’s Financial Dominance," The Federalist, by Helen Raleigh
  • Fred
    • "Is America Living in a 9/10 Moment," The Dispatch, by David French

We’ll see you next week for another exciting and informative episode when we sit down with Elizabeth Larus to discuss China, the Belt and Road Initiative, Taiwan, and more!

View Details

In Episode #56, we are joined by Katarzyna Kuźma, a partner at Polish law firm DZP.

We discuss:

• Katarzyna's multinational career path, which includes studies in Germany and several years working in Barcelona.
• Who are Katarzyna's client, and in which kind of matters does she represent them?
• Overseas expansion by Polish firms.
• The all-encompassing impact of EU law on Poland.
• Poland's resilient economy and its post-COVID prospects.
• China's growing influence in Central and Eastern Europe.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Katarzyna
    • Berta Isla, by Javier Marías
    • Blackout, by Marc Elsberg
    • Olga Tokarczuk's work
  • Jonathan
    • "Navigating PPE Transactions During a Global Pandemic," International Law Quarterly, by Peter Quinter and Tucker Thoni
  • Fred
    • Simon Malinowski's Canna Law Blog articles on New York

View Details

In Episode #55, we are joined by Eduardo Diaz Rivera, Founder of Alta Real Estate Fund.

We discuss:

• Eduardo's background in finance and investment banking with UBS and Credit Suisse.
• The investment banking community in Latin America compared to the U.S. and E.U.
• Opportunities for Mexico and greater Central America and South America.
• Political trends in Latin America and their potential effect on the business environment.
• Mexican cannabis legalization.
• Listening, and watching recommendations from:
  • Eduardo
    • Skin in the Game: Hidden Asymmetries in Daily Life, by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
    • El Enigma Spinoza, by Irvin D. Yalom
    • Visit Mexico!
  • Jonathan
    • The China Paradox Seminar Series, hosted by World Trade Center Utah
  • Fred
    • Indonesia, Spain mark 500 years since circumnavigation by Magellan-Elcano (The Jakarta Post)

View Details

In Episode #54, we are joined by Nadège Rolland, Senior Fellow for Political and Security Affairs at the National Bureau of Asian Research.

We discuss:

• How the June 1989 Tiananmen Square protests helped spark Nadège's interest in China.
• Working in the French national security establishment, and how it differs from its U.S. counterpart.
• The March 2021 Anchorage meeting between Secretary of State Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang.
• China-Europe relations, and the tensions between European countries' values and their economic interests.
• Why China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) should be of concern to the rest of the world.
• The prospect of partial decoupling and the emergence of a subsystem where China is dominant.

• Listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Nadège

    • Eat the Buddha: Life and Death in a Tibetan Town, by Barbara Demick

      • Jonathan

    • Indialogue, by Aman Thakker

      • Fred

    • The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann (Netflix)

View Details

In Episode #53, we are joined by Ryan Hurley, general counsel at Copperstate Farms.

We discuss:

• What's happening in Arizona following the approval of Proposition 207, which legalizes adult-use cannabis.
• The sea change in Arizonans' views on cannabis in recent years.
• Copperstate Farms, the largest medical cannabis grower in the Southwest.
• The intersection between cannabis and environmental issues, including renewable energy.
• What adult-use legalization in Mexico will mean to the cannabis industries in Arizona and the rest of North America.
• The overall economic climate in Arizona and why it's an attractive destination for those taking advantage of the remote work revolution.
• Harris Bricken's new Phoenix office.

• Listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Ryan:

    • King of the Hill (whose main character has some strong views on cannabis!)

      • Fred:

    • The Fall Of Hong Kong: China's Strategic Plan To Conquer Hong Kong And Purge It Of Its People, by Ching Cheong (MEMRI)

View Details

In Episode #52, we are joined by Esko Cate, a Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)-based international transactional lawyer with Vietnam International Law Firm (VILAF).

We discuss:

• Life in Vietnam during this time of great dynamism in the country
• Vietnam's legal market and law firm culture
• The impact of U.S.-China tensions on Vietnam
• Contemporary Vietnamese attitudes toward Americans
• Vietnam's lauded response to COVID-19
• Differences between HCMC and Hanoi
• The role of Overseas Vietnamese (Viet Kieu) in Vietnam's renaissance

• Listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Esko:

    • Vietnam travel and Vietnamese food

      • Jonathan:

    • The Queen's Gambit (Netflix)

      • Fred:

    • Indigo Traveler

    • Bald and Bankrupt

View Details

In Episode #51, we are joined by Kristina Koehler-Coluccia, Shanghai-based head of business advisory services with Woodburn Accountants and Advisors.

We discuss:

• What is happening on the ground in China with foreign companies leaving or diversifying, retrenching, and enhancing their China presence.
• How to build a solid business network when seeking to enter the China market, including lawyers, accountants, headhunters, payroll companies, media agencies, PR professionals, logistics, and warehousing.
• China best business norms and practices, including why email never took off in China the way it has in the West.
• Why foreign companies fail in China.
• Why education and producing good content is key for your China strategy.

• Listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Kristina:

    • Wealth Without Borders Podcast by Howard Whiteson

    • Mosaic of China Podcast by Oscar Fuchs

      • Jonathan:

    • The Once-Classified Tale of Juanita Moody (Smithsonian Magazine)

      • Fred:

    • The White Tiger (Netflix)

View Details

In Episode #50, we are joined by Lisa Delpy Neirotti, Sport Management Professor & Director of Sport Management Degree programs at The George Washington University School of Business.

We discuss:

• Lisa's career as a scholar of the Olympic Games (attended 19 consecutive Games) and 5 World Cups
• The crucial and interconnected relationships among athletes, spectators, sponsors, and host countries in producing mega-events
• Systemic cheating in professional sports
• Career paths for those interested in sport management and sport marketing
• NCAA athletes benefiting financially from their name, image, and likeness
• Covid's impact on the world of sport, comparing MLS, NFL, and NBA seasons and the impact on the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games
• Advice for parents with children who are interested in becoming collegiate and professional athletes

• Listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Lisa:

    • The Ultimate Guide to Sports Marketing by Stedman Graham, Lisa Delpy Neirotti, and Joe Jeff Goldblatt
    • Front Office Sports
    • Sportico

    • Sports Business Journal

      • Jonathan:

    • New Tokyo Olympic Chief Says Games Without Spectators Not the Plan (Nikkei Asia)

    • Park City, Utah for Powder Snowboarding

      • Fred:

    • The Death of Stalin (Netflix)

View Details

In Episode #49, we are joined by Nicole Zhao, international tax CPA with MaloneBailey. We discuss:

• Big CPA firm life in China and the U.S.
• International tax and audit
• Tax issues for foreign companies looking to establish a U.S. presence
• Tax code changes expected under the Biden Administration
• Why estate planning in 2021 will be important for high net worth people
• Advice for businesses that struggled in 2020
• International banking and transfer pricing

• Listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Nicole:

    • IRS Newsroom
    • TheTaxAdviser.com
    • Journal of Accountancy

    • The Crunch, MaloneBailey's monthly newsletter

      • Jonathan:

    • We're Trying to Recreate the Lives We Had: The Somali Migrants Who Became Maine Farmers (The Guardian)

      • Fred:

    • 16 Microsoft Word Tips You Need to Learn Now (PC Mag)

View Details

In Episode #48, we are joined by Tyler LeMasters, who is currently a candidate for the Spokane City Council. We discuss:

• The motivations behind Tyler’s candidacy
• How COVID-19 has impacted political campaigning
• The impact on the Spokane area of the Great Reset and accompanying shift to telework
• What is the proper role of government and the importance of letting communities make their own decisions
• A former resident’s view of China and its relationship with the United States
• Tyler’s experiences in Israel

• Listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Tyler: The Road to Serfdom, by Friedrich Hayek
  • Jonathan: “Xi leads fight against poverty” (Xinhua)
  • Fred: “The Disaster Tourist” (Huffington Post), by Kent Russell

To learn more about Tyler’s campaign you can visit the following pages or reach out directly via email.

• Website: votetylerlemasters.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/tylersl
• Instagram: @lemasterst
• Email: tyler@votetylerlemasters.com

View Details

In Episode #47, we are joined by James Cooper, Associate Dean for Experiential Learning, Professor of Law, and Director of International Legal Studies at California Western School of Law. We discuss:

• The opportunities presented by the Great Reset.
• James' intellectual property journey, from t-shirt counterfeiter to infringement victim, to U.S. delegate to World Intellectual Property Organization.
• China's own journey, from copier to inventor.
• Proyecto ACCESO, a judicial technology transfer project, and James' involvement with it.
• James' pivot to a focus on blockchain.
• Teaching law.
• Whether all Canadians are polite.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • James:

    • Roberto Bolaño's work

    • The Crown (Netflix)

      • Jonathan:

    • CSIS Mailing Lists

      • Fred:

    • "Chaguan: China faces fateful choices, especially involving Taiwan," The Economist

View Details

In Episode #46, we are joined by Marc Chandler to discuss global currencies, foreign exchange, and global economic policies. We discuss:

• How developed and developing nations are weathering Covid and their post-Covid prospects.
• Whether debt-fueled Covid recovery monetary policies are smart, which nations are more likely to successfully employ such strategies, and which will struggle.
• U.S. Treasury bonds compared to the European bond market.
• What one generation owes to another generation in terms of its economic legacy.
• China's role in helping countries in its economic orbit recover from Covid.
• The role of a boutique foreign exchange provider in international business transactions.
• The interplay between global currencies and monetary policies.
• The role of virtual currencies and central banks' reactions to them.
• Countries on Marc's watchlist - for good and less good reasons.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Marc:

    • The Hidden Lives of Trees by Peter Wohlleben

    • The Weirdest People in the World by Joseph Henrich

      • Jonathan:

    • BYU's Conner Mantz is One of the Best Distance Runners in the World (Deseret News)

      • Fred:

    • A Foreign Service Murder (Foreign Service Journal)

We’ll see you next week when we sit down with James Cooper for a provocative conversation about international intellectual property.

View Details

In Episode #45, we are joined by Kai-Friedrich Niermann, to discuss Germany, the EU, and cannabis. We discuss:

• Germany’s major topics of the day: Covid, climate change, Brexit, and cannabis policy.
• Germany’s role within the EU, including its reluctance to take a leading role, together with Germany’s alliance with France in addressing Poland and Hungary’s rule of law problems.
• Kai’s decision to become a lawyer and transition from general corporate work to cannabis.
• Europe’s booming CBD market and novel food regulations in the EU, together with uneven criminal enforcement.
• The emergence and Kai’s involvement in the European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) and the International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA).
• Germany’s path toward broader cannabis legalization.
• Outside investment in the EU’s cannabis market from Canada, the U.S., Spain, New Zealand, and Australia.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Kai:

    • Deeper Shades of House (a German music podcast)
    • Crowdinvest.de (an investment tracker database for German investments)
    • Hanfverband.de (for information on Germany’s cannabis market)

    • Krautinvest.de (a cannabis investment tracker for Germany)

      • Jonathan:

    • Family Tree and Memories apps from FamilySearch

      • Fred:

    • The Crown from Netflix

We’ll see you next week when we sit down with Marc Chandler for a provocative conversation about global currencies, foreign exchange, and global economic policies.

View Details

In Episode #44, we are joined by Isaac Stone Fish, CEO and founder of Strategy Risks, as well as a renowned journalist. We discuss:

• What initially drew Isaac to China, where he lived for seven years, and his experiences visiting all of China's provinces, autonomous regions, and direct-administered municipalities.
• The importance of interesting conversations in a journalist's work.
• Isaac's new venture focusing on political risk in China.
• Chinese companies and ESG: The soft complicity of low expectations?
• The one thing on which Isaac strongly agrees with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
• What does a post-CCP China look like, and the implications for the United States.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Isaac:

    • The Sunlight Dialogues, by John Gardner

    • Lonesome Dove, by Larry McMurtry

      • Jonathan

    • 2021 State of the State Address, by Utah Governor Spencer Cox

      • Fred:

    • Little Big Women (Netflix), directed by Joseph Hsu

We’ll see you next week when we sit down for yet another provocative conversation, this time with Kai Friedrich Niermann.

View Details

In Episode #43, we are joined by Nadja Vietz, a partner at Monereo Meyer Abogados dual-hatted as a Harris Bricken attorney, to discuss foreign direct investment (FDI) in Spain. We discuss:

• Why Spain is an attractive destination for investment.
• What constitutes foreign investment under Spanish law, including the treatment of EU, EFTA, and now British investors.
• Spain’s recent restrictions on FDI inflows, and the role of the COVID-19 pandemic and protectionism in the imposition of those restrictions.
• How prior authorization is required for certain investors, including those controlled by foreign governments.
• Which sectors are most affected by the restrictions?

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Nadja:

    • The Shadow of the Wind, by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

      • Jonathan:

    • The Next Four Years: Strategic Challenges & Opportunities Facing the United States (World Trade Center Utah discussion with former National Security Advisor H.R. McMaster)

      • Fred:

    • The Minions of Midas (Netflix)

We’ll see you next week when we sit down with Isaac Stone Fish for a provocative conversation about China and other topics.

View Details

In Episode #42, we are joined by David Knapp, co-founder of Ornavera and Director at Togram. We discuss:

• David’s move from Wausau, Wisconsin to Asia, where he has lived and worked for over three decades, starting in computer programming, then on to sales and executive positions.
• David’s experience as the president of Motorola Vietnam at the onset of the cellular phone era.
• Embedded software’s role in agricultural technology.
• Significant agricultural development and specific goals in Asian countries, including Singapore’s goal to have 20% of its vegetables grown in homes by 2030.
• Ornavera’s technology’s role in helping farmers better understand the soil temperature, electroconductivity, moisture, and mineral content.
• The future outlook for agricultural security and productivity in Asia and globally.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • David:

    • A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

      • Fred:

    • The Southern Tour Podcast hosted by Jonathan Chatwin

      • Jonathan:

    • Cobra Kai on Netflix

We’ll see you next week when we sit down with Nadja Vietz from Monereo Meyer Abogados to discuss recent developments in foreign direct investment (FDI) in Spain.

View Details

In Episode #41, we turn our attention to developing events in Myanmar with Robert Walsh, a project manager with deep expertise in the country. We discuss:

• Robert's trajectory from Burmese studies in the U.S. military to private sector work in Myanmar as the country's economy opened up.
• The drop in U.S. engagement with Myanmar under the Trump administration and how it emboldened the Tatmadaw, Myanmar's military.
• Latest developments following the coup by the Tatmadaw and accompanying detention of civilian leaders.
• Aung San Suu Kyi and the complexities surrounding her iconic figure.
• The Rohingya issue.
• Myanmar's prospects for growth in the face of Tatmadaw intervention in the economy.

Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

• Robert:

  • Bertil Lintner's books on Myanmar
  • Myanmar Times
  • Frontier Myanmar

  • Fred:

  • Fragrant oil, rare fungi, big bucks, by Ann Wang (Frontier Myanmar)

We’ll see you next week when we sit down with David Knapp from Ornavera to discuss technological developments in global agriculture.

View Details

In Episode #40, we are joined by Matt Plavan, CEO of Arcadia Biosciences. We discuss:

• Notable domestic and international developments in bioscience affecting plant genetics and the health of people in developing and developed nations.
• Arcadia’s work in increasing the nutritional value of traditional commodity products like soy and wheat that are widely consumed across the world.
• Developments in the biogenetics of cannabis (hemp) plants.
• The life of a CEO of a publicly traded company in a normal year and in a Covid-impacted year.

Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

• Matt:

  • The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

  • Fred:

  • Making Sense podcast, Episode #230 – An Insurrection of Lies by Sam Harris

  • Jonathan:

  • Africa’s Promising Untapped Potential for Hemp Production by New Frontier Data / Cannabyte

We’ll see you next week when we sit down with David Knapp from Ornavera to discuss technological developments in global agriculture.

View Details

In Episode #39, we are joined by Nadia Lazareva, a senior manager at HSBC in Hong Kong. We discuss:

• Nadia's path from her native Russia to Hong Kong
• Why learning Mandarin is a great investment
• What working at a large international bank like HSBC is like
• Nadia's advice to women and girls thinking of a career in banking
• Why there is nothing wrong with saying "I don't know"
• Finding the right balance between motherhood and work
• What a typical day looks like for a compliance officer at HSBC
• The role of risk in career-building

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Nadia

    • My Own Words, by Ruth Bader Ginsburg

      • Fred

    • Suspected Chinese spy targeted Californiapoliticians (Axios), by Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian and Zach Dorman

      • Jonathan

    • To Stop China's Imperial Designs, Let It Bleed ItselfDry (The Federalist), by Sumantra Maitra

We’ll see you next week!

View Details

In Episode #38, we are joined by Wen Lii (李問), director of the Matsu Islands chapter of Taiwan's governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). We discuss:

• Taiwan's status and its relationship with China, in plain English
• Matsu and its sister Kinmen islands unique position as Taiwanese islands on China's shores
• How China and Taiwan agreed on an informal schedule to exchange fire during the Cold War
• How our guest helped the DPP establish a Matsu presence and dramatically improve their vote tally on the islands
• Dressing up as a mussel shell and other tales from the Matsu campaign trail (pictures can be viewed HERE)
• Concerns on the islands over illegal fishing and sand mining activities by Chinese ships

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Wen

    • Visit Matsu!

      • Jonathan

    • Cannabis in the U.S. and E.U. (Harris Bricken webinar in partnership with German-based law firm KFN+ and Swiss-based law firm Froriep)

      • Fred

    • Rose Island (Netflix)

View Details

In Episode #37, Jonathan and Fred look back at the podcast's first year and look ahead at 2021.

Some of the highlights:

• How 2020 and COVID-19 will change the way lawyers approach their work, especially in the transactional space
• The China lessons of 2020 and how they will be applied going forward
• Why cannabis lawyers are excited about the next couple of years

• The most downloaded episodes of 2020

  1. Episode 4 – Geetha Kandiah (Southeast Asia)
  2. Episode 3 – John Brittell (East Africa)
  3. Episode 2 – Dr. Jose Raul Perales (Puerto Rico)
  4. An appeal for guest and topic recommendations

We look forward to your continued listenership in 2021!

View Details

In Episode #36, we are joined by Lingling Zhang, a Presidential Diamond Wellness Advocate with doTERRA International LLC. We discuss:

• Lingling’s experience moving from China to the U.S., including how she was received in the U.S. and how her decision was viewed by her Chinese colleagues.
• The IT (information technology) industry in China vs. the U.S.
• How Lingling’s IT experience prepared her to succeed after her significant transition away from IT and into health and wellness.
• Why the prevalence of health and wellness companies, including those focused on essential oils and other nutraceuticals, have been increasing and will likely continue to increase.
• The challenges of overseeing and managing a team across multiple countries and time zones.
• How dealing with individuals across borders makes those international borders matter less and brings people together foremost as people, no matter the languages, countries, or cultures.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Lingling

    • How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
    • The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz
    • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
    • The Secret (documentary) available on Netflix

    • www.doterra.com information regarding the benefits of essential oils, including a free class from a wellness advocate

      • Jonathan

    • Engineers of the Soul: Ideology in Xi Jinping’s China by John Garnaut

      • Fred

    • Hong Kong Noir, edited by Jason Y. Ng and Susan Blumberg-Kason

We’ll see you next week when we sit down to discuss our reflections on 2020 and predictions for 2021 for the blog and for international law and business.

View Details

In Episode #35, we are joined by Dominique Tolbert, owner of TLBRT Hospitality, Mesean Spices, and Global MBA student at George Washington University. We discuss:

• How Dominique's lifelong passion for food led her down the path of entrepreneurship
• Dominique's Liberian heritage's role in sparking her interest in hospitality
• The diverse culinary influences that guide Dominique's work
• Living in China as a Black woman, and how China reminded Dominique of West Africa
• Dominique's perspectives on Liberia, its region, and Africa generally
• George Weah, Liberia's soccer star turned president
• The return of the African Diaspora

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Dominique

    • André & his olive tree (Netflix)

    • Golden Veins (Fabrice Guerrier)

      • Fred

    • Electoral College votes (such as Florida's, broadcast on C-SPAN)

      • Jonathan

    • Inside Business newsletter

View Details

In Episode #34, we are joined by Uday Garg, Managing Partner at Mandala Capital, a private equity firm focused on long term and sustainable investments across the food value chain in India and Southeast Asia. We discuss:

• The basics of food and agriculture ("agri") investing and why it is helpful to analogize to the oil and gas business.
• Why food and agri investment makes sense in Southeast Asia and India, from both a demand and supply perspective.
• The $2,000 per capita GDP threshold as a good indicator for consumption spikes in emerging nations.
• Mandala Capital's strategy for investing in food and agri.
• Why so much investment goes into agritech and whether agritech is really a new investment area.
• What cannabis (especially hemp) is doing to the US and global market and why seed companies and branding companies are most likely to emerge as major players.
• Impact investing and calculating an SROI (social return on investment).

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Uday

    • 40 Chances: Finding Hope in a Hungry World by Howard G. Buffet

      • Jonathan

    • The New Tech Supply Chain, a Nikkei Asia webinar

      • Fred

    • A Woman Called Hey, a Sixth Tone article by Zhang Yue

View Details

In Episode #33, we are joined by Adam Bathgate and Korin Knights, lawyers at the Bermuda office of Walkers, an international law firm. We discuss:

• Bermuda's status as a British Overseas Territory (it is the oldest such territory)
• International finance centers (IFC) and the myths surrounding them
• Bermuda's specialties as an IFC: insurance and reinsurance
• What Adam misses about onshore in Europe—and what he does not.
• Korin's perspectives as a Bermudian lawyer at a global firm—and the example he hopes to set for aspiring lawyers from Bermuda
• Bermuda's opportunities for digital nomads and fintech entrepreneurs
• Developments in Bermuda's legal framework for cannabis

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Adam

    • The Spy and the Traitor, by Ben Macintyre

      • Korin

    • 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos, by Jordan B Peterson

    • Joe Rogan Experience

      • Jonathan

    • "Exclusive: Nintendo chief plots post-Animal Crossing future", Nikkei, by Jada Nagumo

      • Fred

    • "How China seeks to redefine global norms and keep the West at bay", Hong Kong Free Press, by Simon Shen

We’ll see you next week when we sit down with Uday Garg, managing partner at Mandala Capital.

View Details

In Episode #32, we are joined by Joel Gallo, CEO of Columbia China League Business Advisory Co., a cross-border transactions and management consulting firm. We discuss:

• The deferential treatment to Chinese companies listed on U.S. stock exchanges and why that matters to the markets and investors.
• The roles the Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Shanghai stock exchanges play and how those roles have been changing in light of China's reform and the opening up of its financial sector.
• What is going on with global stock markets now as leading indicators of companies and global economies.
• What increased interest in digital currencies within various countries' governments will do to the global currency market.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Joel

    • MIT Technology Review
    • Foreign Affairs

    • Le Monde Diplomatique

      • Jonathan

    • Pitchbook

      • Fred

    • Google Maps and Google Earth

    • The Florida Panhandle and St. Mark's Wildlife Refuge

We’ll see you next week when we sit down to discuss venture capital in Southeast Asia with Uday Garg.

View Details

In Episode #31, we are joined by Doug Brush, a cybersecurity expert at Splunk. We discuss:

• Current legal frameworks used to address cybersecurity.
• Data privacy concerns, including the EU's GDPR and California's CCPA, and whether a business or government can ever be 100% cyber secure.
• How companies should think about their cybersecurity, including which data generates revenue for the business, the data lifecycle, breach responses, and cyber insurance.
• The goals, motivations, cadences, and patterns of state-sponsored and other hacker groups.
• Some of the most important issues being discussed today among cybersecurity professionals.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Doug

    • Various cyber insurance conferences available online (WSJ's Pro Cybersecurity Forum) (Net Diligence's Cyber Risk Conferences)

    • Splunk.com's free online webinars

      • Jonathan

    • Nikkei Asia's Inside the US Campaign to Cut China Out of the Tech Supply Chain

      • Fred

    • Sam Harris' Making Sense Podcast Episode #220 - The Information Apocalypse

    • GQ's The Mystery of the Immaculate Concussion

We’ll see you next week when we sit down with Joel Gallo, CEO of Columbia China League Business Advisory Co., a cross-border transactions and management consulting firm.

View Details

In Episode #30, we are joined by Sonia Gumpert, managing partner at Monereo Meyer Abogados, Harris Bricken's partner law firm in Spain. We discuss:

• How Sonia's firm accompanies foreign businesses on their "Spanish adventure."
• The experience of growing a leading business law firm from the ground up.
• Issues affecting women in the legal profession in Spain.
• The impact of COVID-19 on Spain and in particular its tourism sector.
• What Spain offers to foreign investors.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Sonia

    • Explore Spain!

      • Jonathan

    • Google Translate

      • Fred

    • YouTube Premium

    • "China's Man in Washington", by Mara Hvistendahl and Lee Fang (The Intercept)

View Details

In Episode #29, we are joined by Alberto Predieri, an Italian attorney and partner at de Bedin & Lee studio legale associato. We discuss:

• Alberto's fascinating career track, from Olympic sailor to international business attorney.
• The impact of COVID-19 on Italy and especially Lombardy, with Alberto's first-hand perspective.
• What a typical day looks like for a lawyer in Milan.
• The importance of understanding different cultural perspectives.
• Why a business lawyer working in a Continental jurisdiction might envy his or her common-law counterparts.
• The genesis of Alberto's Milan law firm's partnership with Hong Kong's de Bedin & Lee.
• AC Milan or Inter? (Spoiler: It's Juve for Alberto.)

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Alberto

    • Fauda (Netflix) ... GLB's first repeat recommendation!
    • Enquanto Salazar dormia (Portuguese) , by Domingos Amaral
      • Jonathan – "Greece 'sets up soundwave guns on its borders with Turkey to stop illegal migrants'", by Sophie Tanno (Daily Mail)
      • Fred – Return to the caves of Shan-Gan-Ning border, by Koo Lap (Apple Daily)

View Details

In Episode #28, we are joined by Sonu Ratra, Co-founder of Akraya and Founder of Women Back to Work. We discuss:

• Sonu's career path from India to the U.S. and working in a male-dominated technology environment.
• How a difficult business meeting after the birth of her daughter led to her founding Akraya and its Women Back to Work initiative that works to educate companies regarding the significant contributions of women who have taken a career break to care for children or other family members.
• The success story of one "returner" who is now a project manager at Cisco after a 19 year career gap.
• Barriers in the workplace for women of color, especially during and post-Covid.
• Sonu's involvement in an international "Peace through Business" program with The Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women, including her mentoring women entrepreneurs from Rwanda and Afghanistan.
• The worldwide contributions of women to society and women's rights as universal human rights.
• Advice for girls and women who want to have full participation and contribute to their work and world environments in meaningful ways.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Sonu

    • Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Brian Stevenson
    • No Shortcuts to the Top: Climbing the World's 14 Highest Peaks by Ed Viesturs, David Roberts, and Stephen Hoye
    • Hidden Brain podcast on NPR
      • Jonathan – World's Toughest Race: Eco-Challenge Fiji on Amazon Prime Video
      • Fred – Blind Spot: The Road to 9/11 podcast by NPR (hosted by Jim O'Grady)

View Details

In Episode #27, we are joined by Andrea Holtan, an international trade specialist and adjunct professor at Seattle University's Albers School of Business and Economics. We discuss:

• Andrea's career trajectory, including being the only female working for a Japanese company early in her career
• The role of licensed customs brokers
• The experience of working in South Africa and Kenya
• Section 301 tariffs: What they are, why they were imposed, and what they mean for Americans
• Antidumping and countervailing duty trends
• The scourge of forced labor

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Andrea – Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands, by Terri Morrison and Wayne A. Conaway
  • Jonathan – "Why China’s recovery is not what it seems" (Financial Times), by Michael Pettis
  • Fred – "Beijing Believes Trump Is Accelerating American Decline" (Foreign Policy), by Rush Doshi

View Details

In Episode #26, we are joined by Mark McLawhorn. We discuss:

• Mark's law firm, McLawhorn Legal
• South Carolina's consolidation as a foreign investment hub
• The importance of judicial clerkships in the American legal system
• Mark's LLM studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong
• The experience of being a Black man in Hong Kong
• Thoughts on our current national moment here in the United States

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Mark – The Social Dilemma (Netflix)
  • Fred – Rough Waters Ahead for Vietnam-China Relations, by Huong Le Thu (Carnegie Endowment for International Peace)
  • Jonathan – "This is the Asian Century: Seven reasons to be optimistic about it", by Nikkei staff writers (Nikkei Asian Review)

View Details

In Episode #25, we are joined by Adam Bigelow. We discuss:

• Adam's background in patent translation and gemstone mining with an eye toward tying together the Japan and US markets.
• The current Japanese business environment, compared to its Asian neighbors.
• How Shinzo Abe's departure and Yoshihide Suga taking the prime minister role will affect the way Japan does business internally and internationally.
• Japan's prospects as a country as it continues to grapple with its aging population.
• Japanese skill in automatization compared to its prospects for innovation.
• Japan's response to China's rise.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Adam

    • NHK World Broadcasts
    • Murakami Haruki's novels
      • Fred – Making Sense podcast by Sam Harris, Episode 217 - The New Religion of Anti-Racism
      • Jonathan – Hamilton musical on Disney+

View Details

In Episode #24, we are joined by Professor Eric Talbot Jensen, of Brigham Young University Law School. We discuss:

• How public international law resembles and differs from national bodies of law.
• The law of warfare as it applies to cyberwarfare, and how sovereign powers diverge in their views on the subject.
• Cyberwarfare's likely impact on future conflicts.
• Where are the world's best hackers?
• What rampant IP theft by China reveals about its geopolitical self-perception.
• The dangers of cyber-enabled election intervention by foreign powers in the 2020 U.S. elections compared to the 2016 elections.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Eric

    • Army of None: Autonomous Weapons and the Future of War, by Paul Scharre
    • Articles of War (Lieber Institute West Point)
      • Fred – Intelligence Matters (CBS News)
      • Jonathan – CounterPoint

View Details

In Episode #23, we are joined by Nathan Sheranian, Senior Director of HR at Freshworks. We discuss:

• The differences and similarities in companies and employees from Africa, Asia, and North America.
• Freshworks' expansion from its roots in India to Silicon Valley and beyond.
• Covid-19's impact on the work environment and whether multinational companies will fare differently than domestic companies.
• Corporate initiatives to address gender disparities in mid- and upper-level management in technology companies.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Nathan

    • The Story of Human Language, an Audible Great Course by John McWhorter
    • Washington: A Life by Ron Chernow
    • The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson
      • Fred – Cádiz are Finally Back, But Not in the Way That They Dreamed Of (The Guardian)
      • Jonathan – The Candy Shop War by Brandon Mull

View Details

In Episode #22, we are joined by Glenn Davies, CEO of CannAcubed, a cannabis technology company based in Singapore. We discuss:

• Why cannabis is an attractive crop for countries in Asia, even where legalization for domestic consumption may not be on the horizon for many years.
• How the UN's sustainability goals dovetail with cannabis growth, including Life on Land, Responsible Production, Poverty Alleviation, and Climate Action.
• Which countries in Asia are rising stars in the cannabis space.
• Why Asian cannabis is more sustainable than the North American cannabis model.
• The launch of the Asia Industrial Hemp Association and what it is doing for governments and companies in Asia.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Glenn

    • Biofuels in Asia - An Analysis of Sustainability Options (USAID)
    • Sustainable Development: Building a Case for Hemp by Pauline Sullivan, Catherine Chan-Halbrendt, and Tun Lin (Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management)
      • Fred - This Land podcast by Rebecca Nagel
      • Jonathan - Hong Kong Security Law Sparks Race for Asia's Next Financial Capital (Nikkei Asian Review)

View Details

In Episode #21, we are joined by Ofir Angel, chairman of AUREN Israel and an expert on advanced technologies and international taxation. We discuss:

• How Ofir grew a family business into a global consulting firm.
• Israel’s consolidation as an attractive investment destination over the last two decades and why Israeli businesspersons focus on international opportunities.
• How US companies in particular can benefit from Israel’s massive investments in infrastructure projects and the country’s advantages in life sciences.
• The critical importance of tax considerations when doing business abroad.
• Israel’s recent signing of a peace deal with the United Arab Emirates and which countries may follow the UAE.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Ofir

    • AUREN’s blog

    • Mind Time: How ten mindful minutes can enhance your work, health and happiness, by Michael Chaskalson and Dr Megan Reitz

      • Fred

    • Fauda (Netflix)

      • Jonathan

    • “The Israel-UAE deal is good news for a troubled region” (The Economist)

View Details

In Episode #20, we discuss:

• The role of the World Bank in global development and how to access a career in international development.
• How the World Bank, as a lender of last resort, classifies countries and balances a country's financing needs with its geopolitical and other risks.
• Key risks in infrastructure finance in developing nations.
• Key trends in PPPs, project finance, and infrastructure finance pre-, during-, and post-Covid.
• How developing nations are faring through Covid and their prospects for recovery.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Prajakta

    • The World Bank's PPP Blog article "COVID-19 and Infrastructure: A Very Tricky Opportunity" by Richard Abadie

    • The Financial Times and The Economist

      • Fred

    • "How China Controlled the Coronavirus" (The New Yorker), by Peter Hessler

      • Jonathan

    • "Coronavirus Stalks Southeast Asia's Once-thriving Unicorns" (Nikkei Asian Review), by Shotaro Tani, Wataru Suzuki, and Peter Guest

Note, the opinions expressed are solely Prajakta Chitre's and do not express views or opinions of the World Bank Group as an institution.

View Details

In Episode #19, we are privileged to engage in a fascinating, if at times sad, conversation with Rayhan Asat, a Washington, DC-based attorney and Uyghur advocate. We discuss:

• Who are the Uyghurs and what are the root causes of their current human rights crisis?
• The imprisonment by the Chinese authorities of Rayhan’s brother, Ekpar, after he participated in the U.S. State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).
• Uyghur forced labor in China supply chains and what companies can do to avoid getting entangled in the problem.
• The connections between the different Turkic peoples, including the Uyghurs.
• Rayhan’s views on Turkey, as a former resident of Istanbul.

View Details

In Episode #18, we talk with Patricia Almada, a Mexican criminal defense attorney. Topics covered include:

• How criminal practice differs in Mexico from common-law jurisdictions such as the United States.
• The due process implications of the shift to online hearings in Mexico and elsewhere as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Concerns over Mexican government initiatives that jeopardizes property and contractual rights.
• The Constellation Brands controversy in Mexicali.
• Being a woman in Mexico's male-heavy criminal courts.

View Details

In Episode #17, we sit down with Ebele Onyeabo, a Nigerian attorney who specializes in oil and gas law. We cover:

• How the Resource Curse has impacted and continues to impact Nigeria's economy and people.
• A rundown of the international oil and gas industry and what aspiring attorneys in this field should expect in order to excel.
• The gender imbalance in the oil and gas industry, as well as the greater energy industry, along with ideas to further promote women's participation.
• Nigeria's prospects for international business and future growth.
• Recent developments in Africa and West Africa of which international businesses should be aware.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Ebele

    • Why National Fail by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson
    • Becoming by Michelle Obama
    • BoJack Horseman (Netflix original series)

    • YouTube channels of Vice and Vox for accessible information on interesting topics

      • Jonathan

    • Nikkei Asian Review's article: Malaysia's Najib [Razak] to be Jailed for 12 Years After 1MDB Conviction

      • Fred

    • Forvo's website for a database of pronunciations in various languages

We’ll see you next week for another discussion on the global business environment as we discuss the practice of criminal law in Mexico and other topics with our guest Patricia Almada.

View Details

In Episode #16, we sit down with Mexican attorney Mariana Gallegos García Conde. We cover:

• How an aspiring psychiatrist ended up becoming a lawyer.
• The challenges and rewards of running your own law firm.
• Women and the Mexican legal profession.
• How a focus on compliance helps grow healthier businesses.
• What the new USMCA (T-MEC) means for Mexico in terms of compliance (and beyond).
• Mexico’s relationship with trade partners outside North America, including China.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Mariana

    • TED Talk: The Power of Vulnerability, by Brené Brown
    • Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, by Carol S. Dweck

    • Cracks podcast

      • Jonathan

    • WSJ’s The Future of Everything podcast

      • Fred

    • The Silence of Others, directed by Robert Bahar and Almudena Carracedo

View Details

In Episode #15, we discuss international schools with Arlo Kipfer. We cover:

• An overview of the global international school market.
• The Chinese legal and regulatory environment for its international schools.
• Important issues for foreign schools to consider when establishing their school brand in China.
• How Covid-19 is impacting K-12 international schools.
• Advice for people who want to teach in international schools around the world.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • Arlo

    • Redshirts by John Scalzy
    • Short Walks from Botoga: Journeys in the New Colombia by Tom Feiling
      • Jonathan – Nikkei Asian Review's Death of the Coffee King: Power and Money in Corporate India
      • Fred – Hardcore History podcast episodes titled Supernova in the East by Dan Carlin

View Details

In Episode #14, we discuss a variety of topics with former Huawei executive Simon Lacey, now a senior lecturer in international trade at the University of Adelaide. We cover:

• Australia’s strategic rethink of its relationship with China.
• Negative coverage of China in the mainstream media.
• The good, the bad and the ugly of working at Huawei as a foreigner.
• A long-term resident’s views on Indonesia.
• Which countries in Asia have gotten it right? The importance of a healthy sense of paranoia.
• The proper role of the state in markets.
• Transitioning from the business world to academia.

View Details

In Episode #13, we discuss what it’s like working for the Chinese government as an American with former Senior Government Consultant, James Moore. We cover:

• China’s general business environment pre-Covid and post-Covid.
• The division of labor between Chinese provincial governments and local governments with regard to business and fostering entrepreneurship.
• What it is like to work inside the Chinese government as a foreigner.
• Major draws to foreign businesses to continue to engage with China.
• Major limitations toward foreign businesses doing business with China.

• Reading, listening, and watching recommendations from:

  • James – The Economist’s dual language app 商论 (Shanglun) and the US-China Business Council’s newsletter.
  • Jonathan – The Ugly Chinaman by Bo Yang
  • Fred – The China Fantasy by James Mann

View Details

In Episode #12, we discuss Iran with World Trade Center Utah's President & CEO, Miles Hansen. We cover:

• -How Utah, a modestly populated landlocked state, punches above its weight in international business activity.
• Significant developments in Iran’s recent history.
• How Iran is perceived by the Saudis and its other neighbors in the Middle East and Asia.
• Iran’s interactions with China and other state actors that affect global business and security.
• What the West should know about the Iranian people as compared to the Iranian government.

View Details

In Episode #11, we discuss Chile with attorneys Juan Cristóbal Palma Orellana and Mario Tapia Echeverría. We cover:

• The role inequality has played in the protests that have affected Chile since late 2019, and the lessons that can be drawn.
• Chile's response to COVID-19 and the pandemic's impact on the country
• How Chile is strengthening its intellectual property rights (IPR) protection, in light of its continued inclusion in the United States Trade Representative's (USTR) Priority Watch List.
• Opportunities for foreign investment in the fisheries and aquaculture industries, as well as the tech sector.
• Our guests' views on Chile's prospects going forward and its place in Latin America.
• China's role in the Chinese economy.

View Details

In Episode #10, we discuss India with Hemang Parekh, a partner and transaction lawyer in Mumbai with DSK Legal. We cover:

• Recent notable developments in India’s business sectors.
• Why India is a good alternative to China from both a manufacturing base perspective and for financial investments.
• How India is benefiting from the US-China trade war.
• India’s relationship with China compared to the rest of its trading partners.
• The status and prospects of the India – U.S. relationship, including India benefiting from the U.S. seeking to relocate medical supply chains away from China.

View Details

In Episode #9, we discussed the latest developments in Hong Kong with Erik Mitbrodt, a Canadian attorney, former resident of the city, and an alumnus of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. We cover:

• Erik, Jonathan, and Fred's connections to Hong Kong
• What the new national security law imposed by China will mean for Hong Kong
• The Chinese authorities' perspective on Hong Kong and the need for the new law
• What Erik and our hosts miss the most about Hong Kong (and what they miss least)

View Details

In Episode #8, we are joined by David Baxter, an international public–private partnerships (PPP) consultant. We cover:

• Why PPPs are an important way of doing projects that benefit both developing and developed nations.
• The increased frequency of PPPs around the world.
• Past PPP success and failures, as well as promising PPP projects in the future.
• What is being planned with regard to public health-focused PPP projects in light of Covid-19.

View Details

In Episode #7, we are joined from Montevideo by attorney Dr. Rodolfo Perdomo, of Perdomo Abogados, to discuss Uruguay’s cannabis industry. We cover:

• Former President José “Pepe” Mujica’s critical role in making Uruguay the first country in the world to legalize recreational cannabis.
• The current legal framework for cannabis in Uruguay—and why there is no going back for the country when it comes to cannabis.
• Uruguay’s aspirations to become a world hub for cannabis research and production, and its new related legislation.
• Why Uruguay is a welcoming and attractive destination for foreign investors, and not just those in the cannabis sector.
• At one important thing you should know about Uruguay, aside from cannabis! (Hint: 1930 and 1950).

View Details

In Episode #6, we discuss current developments in the EU with Shannon Brandao, an international politics and law specialist and American attorney based in Belgium. We cover:

• The current status of Brexit, including how the European continent views and is preparing to cope with its effects.
• Latest developments in EU-US relations.
• Latest developments in EU-China relations.

View Details

In Episode #5, we discuss artificial intelligence (AI) with Dr. Valerie Hudson, University Distinguished Professor and George H.W. Bush Chair, Professor of International Affairs at Texas A&M University. We cover:

• Why today is a significant turning point for AI in human society.
• How the Covid-19 pandemic intensifies concerns about data collection and AI applications.
• What world business and government leaders should be considering when crafting AI policies, laws, and regulations.

View Details

In Episode #4, we discuss intellectual property rights (IPR) in Southeast Asia with Geetha Kandiah, director at KASS, one of the leading IP firms in the region. We cover:

• The composition of Southeast Asia and its diverse legal traditions.
• The state of IPR protection in Southeast Asia: increasing harmonization with international standards, but persistent challenges.
• Singaporean Daren Tang’s election to head the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
• Why international brands entering Southeast Asian markets often choose to buy their own trademarks.
• The impact of local languages on brand protection strategies.
• Suitable dispute resolution mechanisms for the region.
• Protecting against sales of counterfeits on e-commerce platforms.

View Details

In episode #3 we are joined by John Brittell, Managing Partner of Amani Partners.

We cover:

• East Africa as an economic unit that represents Africa’s fourth strongest GDP behind Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt.
• The key industries and sectors to consider when doing business in East Africa.
• Cultural differences to keep in mind when doing business in East Africa.
• East Africa’s main trading partners, including China’s increasing presence and the Chinese community’s response to COVID-19 relief efforts.
• An insider's viewpoint on doing business with typical domestic companies in East Africa.
• The local regulatory environment and how it impacts business.
• Resources for foreign companies that want to establish a presence in East Africa.

View Details

In episode #2 we are joined by Dr. José Raúl Perales, Deputy Director of the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation as we discuss Puerto Rico. We cover:

• Puerto Rico’s political status as an unincorporated U.S. territory, and how that impacts the island’s international role.
• Puerto Rico’s storied role as a manufacturing platform for U.S. companies, especially for the pharma sector.
• How concerns over supply-chain security and overdependence on China may give Puerto Rico an opportunity to attract some manufacturing back.
• Industry-specific opportunities in Puerto Rico, for example, business services such as phytosanitary certification for Latin American companies.
• Possible obstacles Puerto Rico might face as it tries to become a manufacturing powerhouse once again, such as energy and transport concerns.
• How Puerto Rico could form win-win partnerships with other U.S. jurisdiction, such as joint branding of “Made in the USA” products.

View Details

In episode #1 we are joined by Rodrigo Guedes Nunes, international business attorney and Vice President at Kaivo Biotech as we discuss Brazil. We cover:

• How Brazil is dealing with the COVID-19 crisis and the expected short- and long-term economic effects (teaser: Brazilian businesses are just starting to take it seriously);
• What Brazilians think about their largest trading partner, China, and their second-largest trading partner, the U.S. (teaser: China is an important trading partner, but Brazilians generally have more affinity for the U.S. than China);
• Why the next several months will provide a unique and unprecedented opportunity for M&A activity for U.S. companies that want to invest in Brazil (teaser: many Brazilian companies with good products and customer bases will need outside capital and partners to survive post-COVID-19);
• How Brazilian legislation provides opportunities for foreign investment and how to deal with bureaucracy (teaser: good rule of law, but you need good local advisers to facilitate your plans); and
• What is Brazil’s current business environment (teaser: Brazil is open for business and is very pro-Western ideals and developing relationships).