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How to Lose Wars and Tank the Economy

Aug 27, 2026 · 26m

Summary

Host Rob Gunther interviews former Rep. Adam Kinzinger on the Trump administration’s aggressive economic tactics, including “Operation Economic Outcast” against Iran and a collapsed trade deal with Canada. Kinzinger argues these moves are driven by ego rather than strategy, damaging alliances and undermining the post-WWII order. He critiques the lack of clear goals in Iran, the exemption of China from sanctions, and the failure to effectively communicate US objectives, warning that this approach isolates America and risks long-term geopolitical instability.

Topics discussed

Sponsors: ADT Security and Opill birth control Intro: US trade war with Canada and sanctions on Iran Sponsors: Ground News, Built, and Kohler smart toilets Interview: Adam Kinzinger on Trump's trade wars and ego Canada's sovereignty and standing up to US pressure Geopolitics: Might makes right vs. post-WWII order Information warfare: Iran's memes and US messaging failures Sponsors: Home Chef and Temptations cat treats Operation Economic Outcast: Sanctions and exempting allies Military strategy: Air war limitations and ground invasion risks Conclusion: Cost of war and future Middle East stability Outro and sponsors: Wayfair and Liquid I.V.
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