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Dive deep into the Taiwan Strait, a pivotal battleground of the clash between Western hegemony and Eastern resistance, as well as the transition from a fading unipolar world to an emerging multipolar order. Uncover the complexities of cross-strait relations between Taiwan and mainland China, contextualizing them within the broader landscape of global politics. Gain a fresh perspective on Taiwan and beyond, distinct from what is typically portrayed in mainstream media.
Episodes

Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
Ep 13: Martial Law for Me but Not for Thee
Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
Tuesday Dec 24, 2024
In an embarrassing turn of events, Taiwan's ruling party, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), publicly expressed support on social media for Yoon Seok-yeol's declaration of martial law in south Korea before quickly deleting the post amid public backlash. Once at the forefront of the fight to end the Kuomintang's martial law and establish liberal democracy in Taiwan, the DPP is now facing intense criticism for seemingly adopting the very actions it once condemned. As tensions escalate in Taiwan amid strained Sino-American relations, this episode scrutinizes the rhetoric surrounding Taiwan's supposed role as a beacon of democratic values in East Asia. Join us as we explore the contradictions, PR disasters, and the disturbing rise of anti-democratic rhetoric within the DPP's agenda.
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Sunday Dec 08, 2024
Ep 12: Atoms for "Peace" - Taiwan's Secret Nuclear Weapons Program
Sunday Dec 08, 2024
Sunday Dec 08, 2024
In this episode of STXY, we talk about one of Taiwan's most secretive and controversial chapters—the rise and fall of its nuclear weapons program. From covert uranium enrichment deals with South Africa to advanced warhead designs tested at hidden sites, we trace the decades-long journey of the KMT's nuclear ambitions. Discover how researchers achieved breakthroughs, like plutonium production, and the lengths Taipei went to mask its intentions under civilian cover stories. This episode unpacks the intricate web of espionage, technology, and geopolitics that defined Taiwan’s brush with nuclear weapons—and what it reveals about the delicate balance between security and global alliances. Tune in for a riveting exploration of this high-stakes chapter in history.
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Friday Nov 01, 2024
Ep 11: On the Joint Sword 2024B Drill
Friday Nov 01, 2024
Friday Nov 01, 2024
In this episode of STXY, we unpack the recent Joint Sword 2024B military drill and what it signals about the complex dynamics between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan. With recent developments in cross-strait relations, we examine the strategic intentions behind these exercises and analyze the broader implications for security, diplomacy, and regional stability. We'll also explore how the drill reflects ongoing shifts in military preparedness and messaging, from strategic posturing to potential scenarios impacting both sides of the Strait. Tune in for a nuanced conversation that seeks to go beyond the headlines and uncover the deeper geopolitical moves shaping the region's future.
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Thursday Oct 10, 2024
Ep 10: Soulbinding and the "ROC"
Thursday Oct 10, 2024
Thursday Oct 10, 2024
On the occasion of the 113th Posthumous Birthday of the "Republic of China," we delve into the remnants of the former Chinese government that passed at the young age of 38. After 1949, the Republic of China ceased to exist as a living entity, yet its name has lingered, haunting Taiwan for over seven decades, constantly redefined by various political actors––like different souls reanimating the same corpse. Join us as we unpack this political soulbinding and explore how figures from Chiang Kai-shek to Lai Ching-te, with their differing convictions, have reanimated this political zombie.
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Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Ep 9: Taiwan Separatism pt.1: The Origins
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
In this episode, we delve into the intricate history of Taiwan's separatist movement, beginning with the island's return to China in 1945 after fifty years of Japanese occupation. As we explore the internal tensions and external pressures that fueled this movement, you'll discover how a fringe idea gained ground amidst the contradictions within Taiwan's society and global geopolitics. Join us as we uncover the forces behind the rise of separatist ideology and how it continues to be exploited by imperialist powers to further their own agendas.
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Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
Ep 8: Microchips & Macro Politics w/ "Mr. T."
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
In this episode of Strait Talk with Xiangyu, we explore the intricate world of semiconductors and geopolitics with a seasoned industry insider, "Mr. T." Discover the crucial role that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) plays in shaping global tech trends and its strategic importance on the world stage, particularly its impact on Sino-US relations. Join us for an enlightening conversation that uncovers the power dynamics and technological advancements at the heart of the global chip industry.
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Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
In this episode, we share a dark and painful chapter of history: the military brothel system established by the Kuomintang (KMT) in 1950, which persisted until the closure of the last military brothel in Kinmen in 1992. Joining the discussion are Andrea Heinz and Elly Arrow, outspoken activists against sexual exploitation, from the Red Light Exposé podcast. Together, we examine the origins and operations of these military brothels, drawing connections to modern-day phenomena and shedding light on exploitation, violence, and abuse in the global sex industry. By examining this troubling past, we aim to underscore the exploitative nature of the sex industry and its impact on societies worldwide.
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Elly's YouTube Channel
Red Light Exposé
When Men Buy Sex
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Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Ep 6: Meeting "Douglas MacArthur" (w/ Mario Cavolo)
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
In this episode of Strait Talk, I sit down with Mario Cavolo, a multifaceted writer and actor residing in Shenyang City, Liaoning Province. Mario shares his experiences portraying General Douglas MacArthur in the Chinese historical series Crossing the Yalu River, and we discuss how his character's role in the Korean War connects with my family's history, which led to my relatives living in Shenyang today. Our conversation spans various topics, including the impact of historical events on personal lives and the increasing vilification of China in western media. Mario offers his unique insights into these complex issues, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in history, media, and cross-cultural experiences. Join us for a candid and thought-provoking discussion that bridges past and present, personal and global narratives.
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