Eastern Winds: Xi Gains Influence Over Global Politics & Trump’s Power Wanes 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

Welcome to the Jungle: 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?

Cartoon character dancing energetically at a street dance battle surrounded by cheering crowd and colorful lights

Naive, Defensive, & Uncultured: Being Square in a Shapeshifting World

I briefly discuss the challenges of distinguishing between AI-generated content and genuine articles, societal pressures to integrate marketing and entertainment into content creation, and the balance between being yourself and changing yourself in a rapidly-evolving world.

The Trouble with Hegemony: US-Iran War is Driven by a Desire for Influence

Hegemony is dominant influence, not violence. A county can be influential without being violent. But the quickest way to expand power is through violence. And violence often comes with the territory of hegemony.

Guns & Gold: What’s wrong with 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?

Question: Does the USA need Greenland?

It’s possible that another country (e.g. China, Russia) or group of countries (e.g. European Union) could seek to seize Greenland to develop its resources and use its land for its own strategic advantage. The United States may be seeking to beat its rivals, including the European Union, to this potential outcome. But, what if they don’t need to?

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…

Thank You for Your Service: The Fine Line Between Patriots & Parrots

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)

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.