Question: Is Xi gaining influence & is Trump’s power waning as they prepare to meet in China?

The United States faces challenges in the Strait of Hormuz as the Russo-Ukrainian War persists. Xi Jinping’s leadership continues to assert authoritative control over Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the South China Sea, while potentially leveraging U.S. political dynamics for Chinese expansionism. This climate highlights current global power shifts.

Beetle on soil near a nuclear missile with US Air Force markings in a bunker

Question: What do cuckoos, kings, cleaner fish, caterpillars, and beetles have to do with nuclear proliferation?

The Trump administration is receiving a lot of criticism over the war with Iran, but I’m hearing few suggestions from those critics on what to do now. I can understand criticizing the administration for initiating the conflict without a better-developed strategic plan. But where do we go from here? If you’re the POTUS, what’s your next move?

Update: “No Kings” 3 in Rural Missouri – Local Residents Rally in Warrenton to Express their Support for Constitutional Rights & Opposition to Trump’s Politics

On a brisk Saturday in Warrenton, Missouri, a crowd gathered for the No Kings rally, expressing discontent with the current political climate. Attendees voiced concerns about authoritarianism, government corruption, and the degradation of constitutional rights. The rally reflected a desire for democratic principles and connection among like-minded individuals in a predominantly conservative area.

Question: Are guns & gold fueling war in Sudan?

Fox News recently reported that President Trump is sending 200 troops to Nigeria to protect Christians who are being persecuted there. Fox has also reported Christians being killed in Sudan. So, why isn’t President Trump sending troops to Sudan as well?

Analysis: Trump & Zelenskyy 2.0 – A Pre-Brief for the Second 2025 White House Meeting

There’s a lot at stake in the Trump & Zelenskyy White House Meeting 2.0, but I’m keeping my expectations low. Here’s why…

Question: Are democracies, free coffees, and world-class retail businesses worth fighting for?

What makes a retailer world class? Great products and services at an affordable price?! Everything in one place?! FREE COFFEE?! There may be more to this than meets the eye…

Question: Where is the line between parrots (noise-makers) and patriots (servant-leaders)?

What does the end of the HBO series Band of Brothers have to do with parrots, organizational psychology, and the current cultural zeitgeist? Click the link to find out… (8 minute read – if you’re faster than the average)

Analysis: President Trump’s Terrific Tariffs, Oversimplified

President Trump’s April 2, 2025 tariff announcement imposes a 10% tax on imported goods, leading to increased prices for U.S. consumers and potential losses of $3,800 per household. While tariffs raise federal revenue, they may also encourage domestic production if U.S. goods can compete with cheaper foreign options. Protests against tariffs are expected as consumers react to rising costs.