Special Competitive Studies Project - SCSP

Strait Forward

#17 in Government · 🇸🇬 #77 in Government · 🇳🇿

About the show

Strait Forward is a podcast series from the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), where Channing Lee takes a deep-dive into Taiwan, the island at the forefront of technological innovation and the global fight for democracy. Hear Taiwanese experts discuss geopolitics, technology, and culture.

Newest episodes

How Arizona Became America's Chip Hub

Nov 9, 2026 38 min

How did Arizona become a major hub for Taiwanese semiconductor investment, and what did it take to make the partnership work? In a new mini-series about “How Arizona Became America’s Chip Hub,” host Channing Lee visits Phoenix to speak with Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA). Watson traces the relationship behind TSMC’s Arizona investment, beginning with a 2013 trip to Taiwan, years before a specific project was on the table. They discuss how Arizona brought government, industry, and universities together to attract investment, address the cost challenges of U.S. manufacturing, and build the supplier networks and talent base that semiconductor companies need. Watson explains how ACA serves as a single point of contact for businesses navigating different levels of government, and why consistent support across Republican and Democratic administrations helped build trust. The conversation also explores Arizona’s growing ties with Taiwan, opportunities in AI and healthcare, and what other states can learn from Arizona’s approach. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

What Taiwan Brings to the Robot Race

Oct 27, 2026 37 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, recorded at the Taiwan Expo USA in Dallas, Texas, host Channing Lee explores how the United States and Taiwan can partner on robotics. She sits down with CH Wu (吳志煌) of Aeolus Robotics, a Taiwanese company whose robots already work in airports and nursing homes across Taiwan and Japan. Joined by the company’s robot Aeobot, nicknamed xiaobai (小白), CH shares how the company trains physical AI, why robots replace tasks rather than jobs, and how security patrols at U.S. data centers became its first American pilot projects. They explore why CH sees the United States and Taiwan as partners rather than competitors in the budding, global robotics industry. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Why Taiwan’s Tech Firms are Betting on Texas

Oct 13, 2026 34 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, host Channing Lee goes to the Taiwan Expo 2026 in Dallas, where more than 150 Taiwanese companies are showcasing Taiwan’s latest innovations in artificial intelligence, autonomous drones, robotics, semiconductor manufacturing, and more. As economic ties between Taiwan and Texas continue to strengthen, Taiwanese firms are looking to the Lone Star State as a growing hub for investment and advanced manufacturing. TAITRA Chairman James Huang shares his perspectives on the future of U.S.–Taiwan trade, the opportunities for Taiwanese businesses in Texas, and the challenges of expanding into the American market. Channing also speaks with MICROIP’s Peter Wang, Gye Tay Machinery Works’s (GMW) Jacob Liao, and Iván Romo of SMarTsol Technologies, the supplier of Techman Robot, about their technologies and their plans to expand into the United States. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

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All episodes

How Arizona Became America's Chip Hub

Nov 9, 2026 38 min

What Taiwan Brings to the Robot Race

Oct 27, 2026 37 min

Why Taiwan’s Tech Firms are Betting on Texas

Oct 13, 2026 34 min

Inside Taiwan’s First Sovereign AI Benchmark

Sep 29, 2026 47 min

In this crossover episode with our “Chipping In” event series, host Channing Lee takes the stage with Taiwan's Minister of Digital Affairs, Lin Yi-jing (林宜敬), one year into his tenure at the Ministry of Digital Affairs (moda). A former IBM researcher, startup founder, and bestselling author, Minister Lin explains why "who controls AI controls the past," how Taiwan is building a sovereign AI corpus and a weekly-updated “Basic Evaluation Benchmark” that tests 180+ models for Taiwanese values, and why he calls Taiwan the "honeypot of the free world" as it absorbs 2.6 million cyberattacks a day. They discuss how a Trojan horse incident inspired new cybersecurity standards; Taiwan's push for access to frontier cyber models, data backups and satellite links for wartime resilience; and how an anti-scam partnership with a U.S. company traced a thread from Taipei to Cambodia. Plus: what keeps the minister up at night, and why he sees echoes of Oppenheimer in today's AI race. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Made in Wisconsin: Inside Foxconn's American AI Manufacturing Boom

Sep 15, 2026 54 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, Channing Lee tours Foxconn's Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin campus with Robert Schlaeger, Head of U.S. Region Public & Government Affairs at Foxconn, to unpack how the Taiwanese electronics manufacturing giant built one of its largest U.S. footprints — and is enabling America to build in the age of AI. They trace Foxconn's roots in America back to Houston in the 1980s, discuss the pivot from Wisconsin's original consumer-electronics plans to today's booming AI data server production, and explore how the company trains a local workforce through partnerships with Wisconsin’s technical colleges and Taiwanese universities. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Why Taiwan Didn’t Steal America’s Chip Industry (Pt. 3: Industry & Culture)

Sep 1, 2026 50 min

Building advanced semiconductor foundries — and serving as the world’s trusted semiconductor supply chain capital — requires far more than purchasing multi-million-dollar lithography equipment. It also requires a fundamental alignment between a company’s business strategy, structural architecture, and organizational culture. In the last episode of a three-part Strait Forward miniseries on why Taiwan did not steal America’s chip industry, host Channing Lee speaks with Dr. Konrad Young, a former Director for Research and Development (R&D) at TSMC, to discuss the secret sauce behind Taiwan’s semiconductor industry — and why Taiwan’s partnership with American tech firms has been the key to both countries’ technological successes. 00:00:09:16 — Introduction 00:02:20:11 — Dr. Young's Early Career 00:04:24:23 — Origins of Taiwan's Semiconductor Industry 00:05:31:06 — Taiwanese Talent Pipeline Through US Universities 00:07:40:05 — The Fabless/Foundry Split 00:10:34:14 — Why TSMC Chose the Foundry Model Over the IDM 00:12:57:14 — TSMC's Difficult Early Years 00:17:16:14 — Cultural Conflict Between Manufacturing Discipline and R&D Creativity 00:20:46:03 — The Financial/ROI Advantage of the Foundry Model vs. the IDM Model 00:23:51:10 — Development of the 0.13 Micron Process 00:27:14:22 — TSMC's Dominance in Foundry 00:28:04:05 — Culture of Foundry Work vs. Big-Country "King" Mentality 00:32:02:00 — How the AI boom is reshaping demand and TSMC's business 00:34:28:03 — AI and Automation's Potential Impact on Manufacturing Labor 00:38:34:18 — Why Dr. Young Chose to Return to Taiwan from the US 00:41:10:16 — Building TSMC's Unique R&D Culture 00:43:08:12 — Working Under Morris Chang and TSMC's Cultural Legacy 00:46:22:21 — Taiwan Recommendation Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Why Taiwan Didn’t Steal America’s Chip Industry (Pt. 2: Institutional Ecosystem)

Aug 18, 2026 28 min

Political rhetoric often relies on simple villains, and few narratives are as convenient — or as fundamentally flawed — as the claim that Taiwan "stole" America's semiconductor industry. In this second episode of Strait Forward's three-part miniseries, host Channing Lee continues debunking this myth by examining the institution at the heart of Taiwan's chip story: the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). Channing sits down with Stephen Su, Senior Vice President at ITRI, to trace how a single 1974 breakfast meeting between Taiwanese officials led to a pivotal technology licensing agreement with RCA — bringing 36 researchers to the US for a year of training that would seed Taiwan's entire semiconductor foundry industry. Su walks through how ITRI incubated both UMC and TSMC as spinoff companies, and explains why he attributes only a small fraction of Taiwan's success to luck — the rest coming from decades of sustained hard work once that initial opportunity was in place. The conversation also explores TSMC's deeply global supplier ecosystem, ITRI's ongoing research partnerships with US universities like Stanford, Berkeley, CMU, and MIT, and Su's framework for understanding Taiwan's evolving role — from "Made in Taiwan," to "Made by Taiwan" overseas, to what he argues must become "Made with Taiwan": a model of deep international partnership essential not just for semiconductors, but for the future of AI and quantum computing. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Why Taiwan Didn’t Steal America’s Chip Industry (Pt. 1: Geoeconomic History)

Aug 4, 2026 51 min

Political rhetoric often relies on simple villains, and few narratives are as convenient — or as fundamentally flawed — as the claim that Taiwan "stole" America’s semiconductor industry. In a new three-part miniseries of Strait Forward, host Channing Lee seeks to debunk this myth by examining how and why Taiwan built its chip industry, and how Taiwan’s emergence as a manufacturing powerhouse enabled America to unleash its innovation power. This first episode featuring Dr. Roy Lee, formerly Taiwan's Representative to the EU and Belgium and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, explores the geopolitical and economic conditions that created the urgency — and opportunity — for Taiwan to become the world’s chip hub. Contrary to the narrative of theft, Taiwan’s semiconductor success resulted from a deliberate, 45-year strategic partnership built on mutual survival, risk-taking, and shared security imperatives between Washington and Taipei. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Assessing PLA Military Readiness

Jul 20, 2026 42 min

China's military is testing Taiwan in new ways — fewer dramatic air incursions, and far more Coast Guard ships crowding Taiwan's waters in a slow, deliberate squeeze. In this episode, host Channing Lee sits down in the Strait Forward studio with Dr. I-Chung Lai, President of the Prospect Foundation, to assess how Taiwan reads the readiness of the People's Liberation Army to conduct an operation around the island. They dig into whether Beijing has the capability for a full-scale invasion, why a blockade or quarantine may be the more realistic threat, what China might be learning from conflict in the Middle East, and how gray-zone tactics are reshaping the fight across the strait. Lai closes on a hopeful note: a Taiwan growing more economically confident and more sure of its own ability to defend itself. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Sharing Boba Tea, Sharing Taiwan

Jul 7, 2026 36 min

It's Taiwan's most famous export in a cup, but behind every chewy tapioca pearl is a global business story of culture, competition, and surprising technology. In this episode, host Channing Lee talks about all things boba with Greg Chen, CEO of International Business and Chief Investment Officer for the group behind Sharetea and Unique Green (UG) Tea, two of Taiwan's biggest bubble tea brands. They cover where boba came from, how the drink became a worldwide phenomenon and a symbol of Taiwanese culture, why Chinese chains flooding the market pose a growing competitive threat, and how AI-powered machines are helping stores leap from 100 cups a day to thousands. Producer Bobby Owens also tries boba for the very first time. Keep up with SCSP on our website and social media: https://www.scsp.ai/ https://www.youtube.com/@SCSPAI https://www.instagram.com/scsp.ai/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/company/specialcompetitivestudiesproject/posts/ https://substack.com/@scsp/notes https://www.tiktok.com/@scsp.ai https://x.com/scsp_ai Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

The U.S.-Taiwan Semiconductor Education Alliance

Jun 23, 2026 48 min

As the United States and Taiwan deepen their semiconductor partnership, can they build a talent pipeline resilient enough to sustain it? Recorded live in Orlando at the 2026 U.S.-Taiwan Semiconductor Higher Education Networking Event, on the sidelines of the NAFSA: Association of International Educators 2026 Annual Conference, host Channing Lee sits down with three university leaders shaping that future: Dr. Lin Chi-Hung, President of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan; Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, President of San Jose State University in the heart of Silicon Valley; and Dr. Reza Abdolvand, Professor and Chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Central Florida. Fresh off the signing of a new memorandum of understanding, they dig past the buzzwords into what an education partnership really requires, from micro-credentials to cross-border student exchanges, why education may be the ultimate win-win in U.S.-Taiwan relations, and how each side defines success. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

How Taiwan is Building an AI Island

Jun 9, 2026 25 min

Taiwan's Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs, Chia-Lin Yang, joins host Channing Lee live at the AI+ Expo for a conversation on Taiwan's ambitions to become an “AI island” grounded in democratic values. They discuss the mission of Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs (moda), the country's Ten AI Initiative, and the challenge of building a competitive software ecosystem to match Taiwan's already dominant hardware capabilities. Deputy Minister Yang also reflects on AI governance, cybersecurity priorities, and what it will take to push Taiwan's digital transformation from prototype to widespread adoption. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

A Strategy for Defending Taiwan

May 26, 2026 43 min

Channing Lee hosts a live conversation at the 2026 AI+ Expo Bookstore with historian Eyck Freymann, a Hoover Fellow at Stanford University. Drawing from Freymann’s new book, Defending Taiwan: A Strategy to Prevent War with China, the discussion delves into the "deterrence stack," a multi-layered defense framework encompassing political, military, strategic, and economic pillars. Freymann explains that while the United States is well-prepared for conventional military scenarios, it remains vulnerable to gray-zone tactics and economic coercion, making a comprehensive strategy essential for navigating future cross-strait crises. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Defending Against PRC Doublethink & Information Manipulation

May 12, 2026 42 min

At the 2026 AI+ Expo, host Channing Lee speaks with Doublethink Lab Founder and CEO Ttcat, Senior Analyst Jerry Yu, and Strategic Partnership Manager Dahyun Kim to expose the evolving tactics of PRC influence. From the alarming "GoLaxy Leak"—which revealed PRC state-backed AI profiling of Taiwan and U.S. citizens—to the "Borderless Group" content farms infiltrating social media, this episode pulls back the curtain on PRC foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). The team discusses the critical role of democratic control over the AI supply chain and shares why human vigilance is still the best digital defense. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

How to Brew Taiwanese Tea

Apr 28, 2026 25 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, host Channing Lee sits down with Paul Chang, founder of the Morganhope Tea Shoppe in Taipei, to discuss the history and uniqueness of Taiwanese tea. As a "first-generation tea maker," Paul explains how his shop blends modern practices with ancient craftsmanship. He walks Channing through a tea tasting experience, exploring the spectrum of seaweed-like notes in Taiwanese green tea to the honeyed sweetness of Oriental Beauty oolong. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Japan's Stake in the Taiwan Strait

Apr 14, 2026 52 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, host Channing Lee is joined by Ken Moriyasu, Senior Fellow at the Hudson Institute and former foreign correspondent for Nikkei Asia, to discuss how Japan is navigating its stake in Taiwan’s future. Drawing on decades of experience reporting from Beijing, Washington, and Tokyo, Moriyasu provides a sobering, pragmatic assessment of the Japan-Taiwan relationship and the shifting geopolitical realities of the Indo-Pacific. They discuss the recent, controversial statements by Prime Minister Takaichi, who described a Taiwan contingency as "survival-threatening" for Japan, as well as Japan’s potential role in a cross-strait conflict. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

A Ghost Nation’s Struggle for Survival

Mar 31, 2026 58 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, host Channing Lee is joined by Taipei-based freelance journalist Chris Horton to discuss his new book, Ghost Nation: The Story of Taiwan and Its Struggle for Survival. With over two decades of experience reporting for major news outlets from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, Horton offers an "outsider-on-the-inside" perspective on the island’s history and how Taiwan has evolved from a geopolitical afterthought to an indispensable global player that still struggles for formal recognition. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Why Taiwan Matters to Every U.S. City & State (Subnational Diplomacy Explained)

Mar 17, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Strait Forward celebrates its first anniversary with a special crossover episode featuring SCSP’s in-person “Chipping In” event series! Host Channing Lee welcomes on stage Andrea Yang, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO), to discuss how Taiwan is engaging in subnational diplomacy across American cities and states. She provides a historical overview of Taiwan’s resilient diplomatic efforts since 1979, highlighting how Taiwan’s 13 representative offices, numerous "Sister City" relationships, and significant tech industry investments across America foster critical cultural, agricultural, economic, and tech ties between the United States and Taiwan. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

How to Cook Taiwanese Cuisine

Mar 3, 2026 39 min

On this episode of Strait Forward, host Channing Lee explores the rich tapestry of Taiwanese culture through the lens of its world-class cuisine. Moving beyond the "clichés" of beef noodle soup (牛肉麵) and xiaolongbao (小籠包), the episode highlights how food serves as a powerful unifier and a key component of Taiwan's global soft power. Author and award-winning food journalist Clarissa Wei discusses her cookbook, Made in Taiwan: Recipes and Stories from the Island Nation, explaining how centuries of history—from Japanese colonial rule to post-war American influence—have created a unique culinary melting pot. The episode then moves into the kitchen as cooking instructor Ivy Chen joins Channing for a hands-on lesson in making Stir-Fried Rice Vermicelli, or Chao Mi Fen (炒米粉), teaching the essential wok techniques and "folding" methods that define authentic Taiwanese home cooking. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Civilian Preparedness Through Film & TV

Feb 18, 2026 54 min

On this episode of Strait Forward, Channing Lee is joined by Lin Jin-Chang and David Kao, among the creators of Taiwanese TV series “Zero Day Attack,” to discuss the important role that film and television play in civilian preparedness. Released in August 2025, “Zero Day Attack” depicts the grey-zone threats that the PRC poses to Taiwan and the resilience of the Taiwanese people amid the pending threat of invasion. The show is currently only available to watch in Taiwan and Japan. A former National Security Council official in Taiwan, executive producer Lin shares how he brought his decades of experience in government to the script to ensure an authentic portrayal of PRC hybrid warfare tactics. The series is the first to portray cross-strait tensions on the big screen – a topic that has long been considered a "taboo" in the entertainment industry due to the pressure of the Chinese market. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Cognitive Warfare & Civilian Defense

Feb 2, 2026 42 min

On this episode of Strait Forward, host Channing Lee sits down in Taipei with Puma Shen (沈伯洋), a member of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan, associate professor of criminology at National Taipei University, and co-founder of Kuma Academy and Doublethink Lab. Puma breaks down the multitude of threats that Taiwanese civilians face from Beijing, ranging from traditional military coercion to the invisible battleground of cognitive warfare, their impact on domestic Taiwanese politics, and what ordinary citizens are doing to defend themselves. He discusses how the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) uses transnational repressions to intimidate the Taiwanese people, and why he believes it is important to stay strong. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Unpacking the U.S.-China Commission's Recommendations on Taiwan + Predictions for 2026

Jan 12, 2026 51 min

In this first episode of 2026, host Channing Lee rings in the new year with a look at recent events surrounding Taiwan, including a record-breaking $11 billion U.S. arms package and unannounced, large-scale PLA military exercises. Randy Shriver and Mike Kuiken, Chair and Vice Chair of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, join Channing to discuss the USCC’s 2025 Annual Report and its recommendations to the U.S. Congress on Taiwan, predictions for the region in 2026, and the critical "window of opportunity" for deterrence as 2027 looms closer. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Unpacking Taiwan’s Wild Year — And Libby Reveals What’s Next

Dec 15, 2025 36 min

On this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing and Libby wrap up the year in Taiwan news, reflecting on a turbulent but ultimately optimistic 2025. They discuss major geopolitical and defense developments, including Japan's assertive comments on Taiwan's security, Taiwan's increased defense budget, and recent U.S. arms sales and legislative assurances. Following a special announcement, Libby reflects on her years living and working in Taiwan, sharing personal stories, and explaining why the democratic island is an essential model for the world. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Taiwan's Vision for Space

Dec 8, 2025 33 min

On this episode of Strait Forward, recorded live at SCSP’s AI+ Space Summit, Channing and Libby speak with Holmes Liao, Senior Advisor at the Taiwan Space Agency (TASA), about how Taiwan is rapidly building its space capabilities. The discussion covers Taiwan's latest FORMOSAT satellite launch, its efforts to leverage existing strengths in electronics and manufacturing, and how both private and public sector initiatives are integrating AI for smart satellite operations. They also discuss how Taiwan is overcoming geopolitical challenges in space through international and commercial partnerships to safeguard security in the Indo-Pacific. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Can a Board Game Prepare Taiwan for War?

Nov 25, 2025 42 min

On this episode of Strait Forward, Channing and Libby are joined by KJ Chang, founder of Mizo Games, to discuss the studio’s board game, 2045, which simulates a PLA invasion of Taiwan 20 years in the future. KJ explains that his games are inspired by real-world events and Taiwan's history, aiming to use the "pressure of the play" to help players understand the difficult choices made at the edge of survival. Following the interview, the Strait Forward team – joined by producer Bobby Owens – try out the game for themselves! Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Securing Taiwan's Energy Supply

Nov 10, 2025 43 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, Channing and Libby delve into Taiwan's energy security, a critical issue due to the island’s high import dependency and vulnerability to geopolitical risks. They open with a segment featuring Caleb Barnes, Associate Director for Fusion at SCSP, to discuss the most common concerns about nuclear energy in Taiwan, then welcome Tsaiying Lu, Research Fellow & Director of Energy Security Research at Taiwan’s Research Institute for Democracy, Society, and Emerging Technology (DSET), who details Taiwan's ongoing energy resilience efforts. Tsaiying explains the complex politics surrounding nuclear power in Taiwan, how the island plans to meet the energy demands of its semiconductor fabs and the AI industry, and new research into lesser-known threats to Taiwan’s energy supply. Additional reading: Vulnerabilities at Depth: Submarine Power Cable Sabotage and Supply Chain Risks Amid China’s RiseClimate Change and Infrastructure Resilience: An Analysis of Water Resources and Electricity Use in Taiwan’s Semiconductor Industry Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Taiwan and Europe: A Shared Democratic Future

Oct 27, 2025 34 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, Channing and Libby move beyond the U.S.-Taiwan conversation and dive into the evolving relationship between Taiwan and Europe. They highlight the shared democratic values and significant economic ties that are driving deeper cooperation. In this episode, they welcome Jonas Parello-Plesner, Executive Director of the Alliance of Democracies Foundation and author of The Battle for Taiwan. Jonas offers a critical European perspective on Taiwan, detailing the varied approaches countries across the continent take when it comes to engaging with Taiwan. He discusses how the war in Ukraine has heightened Europe's awareness of the threat to Taiwan, the challenges posed by Chinese coercion, and the dangers of "preemptive obedience" among European nations. Ultimately, Jonas argues that supporting a free Taiwan is vital for global economic stability and the future of democracy. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

D.C. Grad Students on China, Party Politics, and Taiwan’s Future

Oct 13, 2025 47 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange are joined by three young Taiwanese leaders — Fanny Chao, Alaze Lin, and Joyce Chiang — who bring unique experience from Taiwan's three major political parties. As grad students in Washington D.C., the guests discuss how the U.S. capital fosters common ground and nuance that is often missing in domestic Taiwanese politics. The conversation tackles controversial arguments about Taiwan's strategic value and defense spending, candid assessments of their respective parties’ policies, and reflections on how their view of Taiwan's place in the world has changed since coming to the United States. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Deterrence by Drone

Sep 22, 2025 52 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange explore the evolving role of drones in modern warfare and their importance for Taiwan's defense. They discuss the shift from large, expensive military drones to more affordable, mass-produced systems, and the impact of the War in Ukraine on drone development and deployment. The episode features Lorenz Meier, founder and CEO of Auterion, who details his company's mission to build an "Android for drones" — a common open-source operating system for future drone swarms. Meier shares his "Kyiv to Taiwan" story, explaining how his experiences in Ukraine highlighted the urgent need to help Taiwan develop its drone army for deterrence rather than just defense. He further elaborates on the operational applications of drones, from long-range deep strike capabilities against naval targets to close-range combat, emphasizing the applicability of lessons learned from Ukraine to Taiwan's defense challenges. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 15 - Public Opinion & Polarization

Sep 8, 2025 39 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange welcome Lev Nachman, an assistant professor in the Graduate Institute of National Development at National Taiwan University (NTU) and author of Contested Taiwan: Sovereignty, Social Movements, and Party Formation. They discuss how public opinion and polarized politics shape perceptions of recent events in Taiwan. Lev Nachman shares his expertise on political participation in Taiwan, discussing public identity, willingness to fight, and the implications of the "great recall movement." He analyzes how polarization impacts national security and the ongoing debate surrounding Taiwan's defense budget, including different perspectives on military spending. The conversation also touches on the rising influence of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) and the importance of independent voters in Taiwan's political landscape. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 14 - Spilling the Tea on Taiwan Expo, Han Kuang Exercises, Recalls & More

Aug 25, 2025 30 min

In this special catch-up episode of #StraitForward, co-hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange return to the studio to "spill the tea" on the latest from Taiwan. Channing shares insights from her trip to the Taiwan Expo USA in Dallas, detailing Taiwan's strong economic ties with Texas and the innovative technologies on display, from intelligent manufacturing to smart healthcare. The hosts also dive into major news from Taiwan over the summer, including the recent Han Kuang military exercises and the July recall votes, exploring what these events mean for the island's defense, its democracy, and its political future. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 13 - Reporting in Taiwan and China

Aug 11, 2025 29 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, recorded in June at the AI+ Expo, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange are joined by Emily Feng, an international correspondent at NPR and author of Let Only Red Flowers Bloom. This conversation explores the role of storytelling and reporting in understanding complex geopolitical landscapes like China and Taiwan. Emily shares her unique experience as a foreign correspondent, including her years in China, the circumstances that led to her expulsion, and her subsequent move to Taiwan. The discussion delves into the evolving media coverage of Taiwan, the surprising realities of reporting on China from Taiwan, and how her two years living on the island profoundly shaped her understanding of identity and cross-strait relations — a central theme in her book. Emily explores the nuanced, often emotional, dimensions of identity for people both within the PRC and in Taiwan. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 12 - Cyber Statecraft

Jul 28, 2025 27 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, recorded on the final day of the AI+ Expo, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange welcome Audrey Tang back to the show. Audrey delves into her new role as Cyber Ambassador, discusses the groundbreaking ROOST initiative (Robust Open Online Safety Tools) – a decentralized, open-source defense against online harms – and shares her thoughts on the state of AGI. The discussion highlights Taiwan's unique approach to tech-driven diplomacy: bypassing traditional hurdles by focusing on shared public infrastructure and technical interoperability, as exemplified by collaborations with California on digital democracy tools and identity verification. Finally, Audrey shares her choice for Taiwan's official emoji! Check out Strait Forward on YouTube! Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 11 - Defense Tech

Jul 21, 2025 30 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, recorded at SCSP’s AI+ Expo, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange are joined by Dr. Yuh-Jye Lee, Senior Advisor at Taiwan's National Security Council. With a background in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and applied mathematics, Dr. Lee offers a unique perspective on how Taiwan can leverage emerging technologies for national defense. Welcome to Strait Forward Live (00:02:19:56 - 00:03:07:32): Hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange introduce the podcast, recorded live at the AI+ Expo, and welcome special guest Dr. Yuh-Jye Lee, Senior Advisor at Taiwan's National Security Council.Expo Reflections (00:03:49:58 - 00:04:44:31): Dr. Lee shares his excitement for being back in D.C. and highlights the drone arena as the most impressive exhibit he's seen at the AI Expo.Building Taiwan's Innovation Ecosystem for National Security (00:04:44:31 - 00:07:36:24): Dr. Lee discusses Taiwan's strategy for developing defense innovation, emphasizing the need for asymmetric capabilities, leveraging Taiwan's manufacturing foundation, and the creation of a new defense innovation office.Taiwan's Drone Strategy (00:08:19:53 - 00:12:41:29): Insights into Taiwan's approach to drone production, the potential for mass production, concerns about component sourcing, and the opportunity for Taiwan to contribute to a "democracy supply chain" by avoiding Chinese components.Developing Taiwan's Own AI Models (00:13:05:48 - 00:17:05:55): Dr. Lee explains the importance of Taiwan developing its own AI models, such as TAIDE, the "Trustworthy AI Dialogue Engine," to safeguard culture, values, and national security from external influences, especially from the PRC. Taiwan's New Cybersecurity Strategy (00:17:26:59 - 00:24:38:01): Discussion on Taiwan's new national cybersecurity strategy, driven by the rapid evolution of cyber threats and AI. Dr. Lee details its four pillars: whole-of-society defense resilience, homeland defense and critical infrastructure, key industrie...

Episode 10 - Digital Diplomacy

Jun 30, 2025 23 min

In this week’s episode of Strait Forward, filmed at our recent AI+ Expo, Channing Lee and Libby Lange speak with Chiayo Kuo, Founder of the Taiwan Digital Diplomacy Association. She shares her experiences conducting diplomacy in cyberspace and her vision for the future of AI-enabled diplomacy. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 9 - Economic Security

Jun 16, 2025 41 min

On this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange unpack how economic security is reshaping national security, detailing the measures the United States has adopted—from investment reviews to export controls—to protect its innovation edge. The episode features an insightful discussion with Jeremy Chih-Cheng Chang, CEO of the Research Institute for Democracy, Society, and Emerging Technology (DSET). Jeremy details Taiwan's longstanding experience with economic statecraft vis-à-vis China, including its pioneering outbound investment screening framework and its strategic "N-1" principle for technology flows. He also shares Taiwan's efforts to cultivate secure, trusted supply chains for key technologies like drones, advocating for deeper U.S.-Taiwan collaboration to counter geopolitical threats and maintain global technological leadership. What is Economic Security? (00:24 - 01:07) Hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange open the episode discussing their observations from the AI+ Expo about the increasing prevalence of economic security in national security conversations. U.S. Economic Security Tools (01:07 - 03:39) The hosts detail the steps taken by the United States to prioritize economic security. This includes the enhanced capabilities of CFIUS through FIRRMA (2018) to review investments in critical technologies and infrastructure, as well as efforts to restrict outbound investment that could fund the Chinese military. They also touch on export controls on advanced AI chips by consecutive U.S. administrations. The Critical Role of Allies and Partners (03:39 - 04:18) The conversation highlights that the US cannot unilaterally enforce economic security in a global economy. The hosts cite the collaborative restriction on exporting high-capacity lithography machines to China by the Netherlands, Japan, and the United States as a prime example of effective allied action. Introduction to Jeremy Chang (05:58 - 08:07) The hosts welcome Jeremy Chang, CEO and Di...

Episode 8 - The Birth of Taiwan's Chip Industry

May 27, 2025 42 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange dive deep into the origin story of Taiwan's world-leading semiconductor industry. From the initial "breakfast meeting" that set the course, to the deliberate strategic decisions, government foresight, and the development of crucial "cluster effects" that paved the way, Channing and Libby explore the foundations of Taiwan's chip prowess. This episode features Michelle Yun, Corporate Communications Manager at UMC (United Microelectronics Corporation), Taiwan's first semiconductor company established in 1980. Michelle discusses UMC's foundational role in Taiwan's chip ecosystem, its pure-play foundry business model, and how legacy chips power our everyday lives. She also provides an inside look into how Taiwan's tech companies navigate complex geopolitical landscapes as global innovation competition intensifies. Introduction to Michelle Yun (00:05:45:16 - 00:06:20:10): The hosts welcome Michelle Yun, Corporate Communications Manager at UMC, Taiwan's first semiconductor company, to share its founding story.The Birth of Taiwan Semiconductor (00:06:20:12 - 00:09:43:23): Michelle recounts the "breakfast shop" meeting where key officials decided to pivot to semiconductors.Strategic Decisions for Industry Success (00:09:44:02 - 00:14:11:08): Discussion of crucial government decisions, including the founding of ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute) and the establishment of the Hsinchu Science Park, and the benefits of industrial clusters.UMC's Business Model and Role (00:14:11:10 - 00:17:18:04): Michelle explains UMC's evolution as a pure-play foundry and its significance in democratizing chip design for fabless companies like Nvidia and Qualcomm.Defining Legacy vs. Leading-Edge Chips (00:17:18:06 - 00:21:20:18): Michelle provides a technical explanation of nanometer definitions and clarifies why legacy chips (e.g., 14nm and larger) remain crucial for various applications despite being older techn...

Episode 7 - Keeping Watch on U.S.-Taiwan Ties

May 19, 2025 50 min

How is the U.S.-Taiwan relationship evolving in the face of major geopolitical shifts? Chieh-Ting Yeh, Director of US Taiwan Watch, joins hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange for a new episode of Strait Forward to explore the current dynamics and future of U.S.-Taiwan relations, examining cultural perceptions, economic ties, and the crucial role of people-to-people connections. Introduction to Chieh-Ting Yeh (00:04:19 - 00:06:12): Hosts welcome Ting Yeh, Director of US Taiwan Watch, who shares his background and the organization's mission to bridge understanding between the United States and Taiwan.The Origins of U.S. Taiwan Watch (00:06:13 - 00:09:49): Discussion about the unique beginnings of US Taiwan Watch as a hackathon project focused on tracking Taiwan-related legislation in the U.S. Congress.Ting’s Personal Journey (00:09:49 - 00:14:07): Ting shares his experiences growing up in Taiwan, his move to the United States, and the political awakenings that led to his interest in U.S.-Taiwan relations.Early Involvement in Taiwan Issues (00:14:07 - 00:17:58): Tracing Ting's engagement in Taiwanese student activism and the realization of differing narratives between Taiwan and the United States.Founding Critical and Media (Ketagalan Project) (00:18:42 - 00:25:25): An overview of the creation of this early English-language platform providing Taiwan-centric perspectives and covering key events like the Sunflower Movement.Major Events Shaping US-Taiwan Relations (Past Two Decades) (00:26:19 - 00:33:19): A deeper dive into the global impact of China's evolution, President Tsai Ing-wen's leadership, and growing cultural awareness of the U.S.-Taiwan dynamic.The Increasing Significance of Semiconductors (00:36:21 - 00:40:12): Discussion on how Taiwan's crucial role in the semiconductor industry has elevated its importance in the U.S. perspective.Taiwanese Perspectives on the US Relationship (00:40:12 - 00:41:12): Exploring how Taiwanese society views the United States, partic...

Episode 6 - The KMT's Blueprint for the Future

May 8, 2025 54 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange continue their exploration of Taiwan's political landscape by focusing on the Kuomintang (KMT), one of the island's two major political parties. Featuring an interview with Assistant Director of International Affairs for the KMT, Howard Cheng-Hao Shen, the conversation covers Shen’s personal journey into the party, the KMT's relationship with the United States and China, its efforts to engage younger generations, and its vision for Taiwan's future. Introduction to Howard Cheng-Hao Shen (00:04:19 - 00:06:12): The hosts welcome Howard Shen, Assistant Director of International Affairs for the KMT, who shares his background and involvement with the party.The KMT's Office in Washington D.C. (00:06:13 - 00:09:49): Discussion about the KMT's efforts to re-establish and maintain a representative office in the U.S. to deepen relationships and communication.Howard Shen's Personal Journey to the KMT (00:09:49 - 00:14:07): Howard shares his personal reasons for supporting the KMT, including a shift in perspective and alignment with the party's mission.The KMT's Historical Roots and Ideals (00:14:07 - 00:17:58): Tracing the KMT's founding by Sun Yat-sen in Hawaii and its early Republican ideals, as well as its complex history in modern China and Taiwan.The KMT's History in Taiwan Post-1949 (00:18:42 - 00:25:25): An overview of the KMT's rule in Taiwan, including the period of martial law and the eventual democratic transition initiated by the party.The KMT's Approach to China Under Ma Ying-jeou (00:26:19 - 00:33:19): A deeper dive into the KMT's rationale for pursuing closer economic and political ties with mainland China during Ma's administration, within the context of global trends.The KMT's Current Position on China (00:36:21 - 00:40:12): Howard explains the KMT's current "2D" policy: strong defense combined with maintaining channels for dialogue with Beijing.American Perspectives on Cross-Strait Dialogue...

Episode 5 - The DPP's Agenda for Taiwan

May 5, 2025 52 min

In this episode of "Strait Forward," Channing Lee and Libby Lange explore the history and evolution of Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) from its grassroots origins during the authoritarian era to its current standing. Featuring an interview with Iris Shaw, Director of the DPP's US mission, the discussion covers the party's advocacy for democratic reforms, its transition to governance, its work in Washington D.C., and its policy priorities under President Lai Ching-te. Introduction to the DPP and Early Discussion (00:00:40 - 00:08:03): Hosts Channing and Libby introduce their series on Taiwan's political parties by focusing on the ruling DPP. Libby shares her experiences working for President Tsai, highlighting international engagement and Taiwan's global profile. The discussion then covers key accomplishments of Tsai's administration (US-Taiwan relations, defense reforms, New Southbound Policy) and the initial themes under President Lai (societal defense resilience, AI investment, pragmatic foreign policy).Introduction to Iris Shaw, Director of DPP's US Mission (00:08:45 - 00:09:59): The hosts welcome Iris Shaw, who introduces her role and her extensive experience working with the DPP both in Taiwan and the United States.The DPP's Mission in the US (00:12:50 - 00:15:05): Iris explains the three-fold mission of the DPP in the U.S.: to invest in relationships, align interests, and compete against misinformation.History of the DPP's Founding (00:17:39 - 00:21:42): A look back at the DPP's establishment in 1986 during Taiwan's martial law period, driven by the pursuit of freedom and democracy, and the evolution of its platform regarding Taiwan's status.Transition from Activism to Governance (00:22:53 - 00:27:02): Discussion on the challenges and lessons learned as the DPP transitioned from a grassroots opposition movement to governing Taiwan, including the establishment of policy platforms for cross-strait relations.Interaction with Other Political Par...

Episode 4 - National Security

Apr 21, 2025 36 min

China's military pressure on Taiwan is escalating. How is Taiwan responding? Fei-Fan Lin, Deputy Secretary-General of Taiwan’s National Security Council, joins hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange to provide crucial insights into Taiwan's defense strategies. This episode explores Taiwan's multifaceted approach to national security, lessons learned from the Ukraine war, and the importance of societal resilience. Check out some related works: Two Island Nations, From Neighbors to Partners Taiwan: A Case Study in Resilience and Innovation Beijing’s Play for Taiwan’s Young Voices Intensifies Coming up: SCSP’s AI+ Expo for National Competitiveness, June 2-4 in Washington, DC. Register here! Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 3 - Digital Resilience

Apr 7, 2025 48 min

In this episode of Strait Forward, hosts Channing Lee and Libby Lange explore the crucial topic of digital resilience, particularly in the context of Taiwan's technologically advanced society. They discuss the multifaceted nature of digital resilience, encompassing both physical infrastructure and cybersecurity. The conversation delves into the challenges Taiwan faces, from natural disasters like typhoons to the pervasive threat of cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. The episode features a compelling interview with Audrey Tang, Taiwan's former Digital Minister and current Ambassador-at-Large for Cyber Affairs. Tang shares insights into Taiwan's innovative approaches to digital governance, including radical transparency, civic engagement, and the use of AI to foster digital democracy. The discussion highlights Taiwan's efforts to build a resilient and democratic digital ecosystem in the face of external pressures. They discuss: Digital Resilience DefinitionPhysical Digital ResilienceCybersecurity ThreatsDisinformation CampaignsAudrey Tang's RoleRadical TransparencyCivic Technology Initiatives (g0v, vTaiwan)Digital DemocracyAI's Role in Governance (Assistive Intelligence)Taiwan Gold Card Program Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 2 - The Road to Democracy

Mar 24, 2025 1 hr 2 min

This episode of "Strait Forward" explores the intricate history of Taiwan's democratization, focusing on the pivotal moments that shaped its current political identity. It begins by establishing a glossary of key historical terms and then dives into the impact of these events on Taiwan's societal fabric. Historian Dr. Dominic Yang joins the conversation to shed light on the profound effects of trauma and memory on Taiwan's journey towards democracy, and how these elements continue to influence the island's political landscape. They discuss: The lasting impact of Japanese colonial rule on Taiwan.The significance and consequences of the 228 Incident.The pervasive effects of the White Terror and martial law.Ethnic distinctions and their role in Taiwan’s political historyDr. Yang's background and research into trauma and memory studies.The KMT's arrival in 1949 and its immediate impact on Taiwan.The everyday experience of living under martial law.The challenges of reconciling historical trauma with democratic development. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 1 - Why Taiwan Matters

Mar 17, 2025 45 min

In the inaugural episode of "Straight Forward," Channing Lee and Libby Lange delve into the multifaceted importance of Taiwan in today's global landscape. They begin by discussing their personal connections to Taiwan and then provide a foundational overview of the island's geography, economy, and unique political status. Ambassador Alexander Yui joins the conversation to share his insights on Taiwan's journey from isolation to a key player in technology and democracy, the challenges it faces, and the burgeoning US-Taiwan relationship. They discuss: Ambassador Yui's career backgroundTaiwan's journey from isolation to recognitionIntroducing Taiwan to a new audienceChallenges in global diplomacyTaiwan's role in global innovationMaintaining democracy in the face of external threatsThe evolving threat from BeijingOpportunities for US-Taiwan cooperation in 2025Ambassador Yui's recommendations for learning more about TaiwanCheck out some related works: - The PRC’s Remote Poaching Model - The View from Taiwan: Democracy in Action - Beijing’s Play for Taiwan’s Young Voices Intensifies - Taiwan: Strength in Unity, Behind Innovation Power - Two Island Nations, From Neighbors to Partners - Taiwan: A Case Study in Resilience and Innovation Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Episode 0 - Podcast Trailer

Mar 10, 2025 1 min

SCSP’s Channing Lee and Libby Lange take a deep-dive into Taiwan, the island at the forefront of technological innovation and the global fight for democracy. Hear Taiwanese experts discuss geopolitics, technology, and culture. Strait Forward is a podcast by the Special Competitive Studies Project.

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Podcast details

Created by: Special Competitive Studies Project - SCSP
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 9, 2026
Episodes: 45
Release period: Every two weeks
Avg. episode length: 41 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

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