WS Podcast

<p><strong>Who really controls the flow of oil, metals, and food around the world? In this episode, we explore the hidden world of commodity trading and the powerful traders who shape the global economy. Inspired by the bestselling book <em>The World for Sale</em> by Javier Blas and Jack Farchy, this conversation reveals how a small group of traders influence global markets, geopolitics, and financial systems.</strong></p> <p>We discuss how commodity trading works, who the key players are, and why companies like Glencore, Vitol, and Cargill hold enormous economic power. The episode explores how these traders operate in high-risk environments, often navigating political instability and global crises to secure valuable resources.</p> <p>We also examine the four major global developments that transformed commodity markets: the opening of previously closed economies, the collapse of the Soviet Union, the rapid economic rise of China, and the growing financialization of global markets.</p> <p>Along the way, we explore how fear and greed drive markets, why traders often buy during times of crisis, and how financial instruments such as futures and options allow speculation on commodities without ever touching physical goods.</p> <p>If you want to understand how global markets really work - and how politics, finance, and natural resources intersect - this episode offers a fascinating look into one of the most influential yet secretive industries in the world economy.</p> <p>All the love, all the power, all of the time! </p> <p>If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link: <a href="https://linktr.ee/w.salski">https://linktr.ee/w.salski</a> </p> <p>Instagram: / unusual.stories_podcast</p> <p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@WS_Podcast">https://www.youtube.com/@WS_Podcast</a> </p> <p>Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2bcP2r30SdpUuUCU6Jmnk9?si=ce70a31da4d04854">https://open.spotify.com/show/2bcP2r30SdpUuUCU6Jmnk9?si=ce70a31da4d04854</a> </p> <p><a href="http://Primal.net">Primal.net</a>: @wspodcast </p> <p>Link to the book on Amazon: <a href="https://amzn.eu/d/05mUNMca">https://amzn.eu/d/05mUNMca</a> </p> <p>Related Media: </p> <p>"Let's Talk About Money" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/tZY2v4MyKpZLto6U13Bl">https://fountain.fm/episode/tZY2v4MyKpZLto6U13Bl</a></p> <p>"The Creature from Jekyll Island" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/vgDpH28sM1q3DbM7h7r9">https://fountain.fm/episode/vgDpH28sM1q3DbM7h7r9</a></p> <p>"Psychology of Money" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/gReodmLToRnWwZ06afiC">https://fountain.fm/episode/gReodmLToRnWwZ06afiC</a></p> <p>"The Black Swan" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/tAtbEebsvxVDqsi5MQXf">https://fountain.fm/episode/tAtbEebsvxVDqsi5MQXf</a></p> <p>"New Confessions of Economic Hitman" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/PQCF1Jrp2ihVjCJZk7Lu">https://fountain.fm/episode/PQCF1Jrp2ihVjCJZk7Lu</a></p> <p>Simon Dixon Hard Talk - <a href="https://fountain.fm/show/KkbRGlYpogiteOTyZupi">https://fountain.fm/show/KkbRGlYpogiteOTyZupi</a></p>

<p>In this week’s episode, we dive into Morgan Housel’s <em>The Psychology of Money</em>, exploring how financial success is shaped not just by numbers and strategy, but by mindset, emotions, and the way we interpret the world around us.</p> <p>We uncover why the soft skills of finance: patience, discipline, humility, and emotional awareness, often matter more than technical knowledge when it comes to building wealth. We’ll discuss the powerful influence of fear and greed on financial decisions, and how understanding these emotions can help us avoid costly mistakes in markets and in life. Additionally, we examine how each person views money through a unique lens shaped by their experiences, reminding us that financial advice is never truly universal.</p> <p>We also explore the idea of defining personal wealth and understanding what “enough” truly means. Instead of endlessly chasing more, we reflect on the importance of protecting the non-financial aspects of life - reputation, relationships, freedom, and happiness - which ultimately give money its meaning. Along the way, we touch on the remarkable power of compound interest and how small, consistent decisions made over time can shape extraordinary outcomes.</p> <p>Finally, we discuss the critical difference between getting wealthy and staying wealthy, and why preserving wealth often requires restraint, patience, and a healthy respect for uncertainty. The conversation also explores the deepest form of wealth - the freedom to control your time and live according to your values, and why each person’s financial strategy must reflect their own goals, risk tolerance, and life circumstances.</p> <p>Join us to discover how <em>The Psychology of Money</em> offers timeless insights into the behaviors, habits, and perspectives that shape financial well-being. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that blends personal reflection, practical wisdom, and a deeper understanding of how money interacts with human nature.</p> <p>All the love, all the power, all of the time! </p> <p>If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link: <a href="https://linktr.ee/w.salski">https://linktr.ee/w.salski</a> </p> <p>Instagram: / unusual.stories_podcast</p> <p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@WS_Podcast">https://www.youtube.com/@WS_Podcast</a> </p> <p>Spotify: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2bcP2r30SdpUuUCU6Jmnk9?si=ce70a31da4d04854">https://open.spotify.com/show/2bcP2r30SdpUuUCU6Jmnk9?si=ce70a31da4d04854</a> </p> <p><a href="http://Primal.net">Primal.net</a>: @wspodcast </p> <p>Link to the book on Amazon: <a href="https://amzn.eu/d/0iMLD0hk">https://amzn.eu/d/0iMLD0hk</a> </p> <p>Related Media: </p> <p>"Let's Talk About Money" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/tZY2v4MyKpZLto6U13Bl">https://fountain.fm/episode/tZY2v4MyKpZLto6U13Bl</a> </p> <p>"Why You Shouldn't Buy Bitcoin?" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/FIM7ht8BaiEFkkqfeaSm">https://fountain.fm/episode/FIM7ht8BaiEFkkqfeaSm</a> </p> <p>"The Bitcoin Standard" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/RCwkrgPTPzFgvS2wGrkF">https://fountain.fm/episode/RCwkrgPTPzFgvS2wGrkF</a> </p> <p>"The 4 Laws of Financial Prosperity" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/d5pG9pbSQOr3FXVi4H3W">https://fountain.fm/episode/d5pG9pbSQOr3FXVi4H3W</a></p> <p>"The Price of Tomorrow" - <a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/Nrkb8qrat8Lk8tnXQFu3">https://fountain.fm/episode/Nrkb8qrat8Lk8tnXQFu3</a></p>

<p>In this week’s episode, we dive into an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation with Steven Puri, exploring what it truly means to work in a state of flow; and how productivity, creativity, and fulfillment emerge when we align how we work with how we’re wired.</p> <p>We explore the nature of flow states and why they are not reserved for elite performers, but accessible to anyone with the right tools and awareness. Drawing from Steven’s unique journey through the Hollywood film industry and the world of tech startups, we discuss how pressure, deadlines, and high-stakes environments can either drain us or elevate us, depending on how we structure our focus and energy.</p> <p>We unpack the difference between leading and managing, looking at how leadership creates conditions for flow, autonomy, and meaning, while management often focuses on control and output. We also dive into practical tools for cultivating flow in everyday life, from structuring deep work to reducing cognitive overload and how these insights ultimately led Steven to create The Sukha Company, a platform designed to help people access clarity, calm, and sustained productivity.</p> <p>Along the way, we draw inspiration from the work of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi on flow, Anna Lembke on balance and dopamine, Daniel Kahneman on attention and decision-making, and we explore chronotypes to understand how timing, energy, and biology play a critical role in how and when we do our best work.</p> <p>Join us for a thoughtful and energizing conversation about focus, leadership, creativity, and designing a life and workflow that supports your natural rhythm. Tune in to discover how flow isn’t about doing more - it’s about doing what matters, in the right state of mind.</p> <p>All the love, all the power, all of the time!</p> <p>If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link: <a href="https://linktr.ee/w.salski">https://linktr.ee/w.salski</a> </p> <p>Steven's Links: </p> <p><a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a> </p> <p>for a 3-day free trial - <a href="http://www.TheSukha.co">www.TheSukha.co</a></p> <p>Show Links: </p> <p>Instagram: / unusual.stories_podcast </p> <p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@WS_Podcast">https://www.youtube.com/@WS_Podcast</a> </p> <p><a href="http://Primal.net">Primal.net</a>: @wspodcast</p> <p>Related Media: </p> <p>"Finding Flow" - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ohwn2qlbkE"> </a><a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/hfEvgyPcADcSq2iAoCs5">https://fountain.fm/episode/hfEvgyPcADcSq2iAoCs5</a> </p> <p>"Thinking Fast and Slow" - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIwil-jid84"> </a><a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/cktX3OJgjLD2N8ZG4Fy3">https://fountain.fm/episode/cktX3OJgjLD2N8ZG4Fy3</a> </p> <p>"Meaningfully Involved" - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Om_ila73rGw"> </a><a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/xuUZeVDDHv4Ube4uZtz2">https://fountain.fm/episode/xuUZeVDDHv4Ube4uZtz2</a> </p> <p>"Why We Sleep" - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbHySUmXfJw"> </a><a href="https://fountain.fm/episode/fIGvLOFonxzNfrQ6usxT">https://fountain.fm/episode/fIGvLOFonxzNfrQ6usxT</a></p>

<p>In this week’s episode, we dive into <em>The Four Laws of Financial Prosperity</em>, exploring a timeless framework for building lasting wealth — not just financially, but mentally and strategically.</p> <p>We break down the four core laws outlined in the book and examine how they apply to modern life, where financial pressure, rising costs, and constant distractions make clarity harder than ever. Rather than treating money as a purely technical subject, we explore the deeper principles behind prosperity — discipline, focus, consistency, and intentional decision-making.</p> <p>Throughout the episode, we unpack some of the most common financial challenges people face today: lifestyle inflation, emotional spending, lack of direction, and the tension between short-term pleasure and long-term security. We discuss the psychological battle between instant and delayed gratification, and why mastering that dynamic may be one of the most important wealth-building skills of all.</p> <p>We also explore the importance of setting goals correctly — not vague wishes, but clear, measurable financial targets that align with your values. We reflect on prioritisation: how to allocate time, energy, and money toward what actually moves the needle, instead of reacting to urgency or social comparison.</p> <p>Beyond theory, this episode is deeply practical. We share actionable strategies for strengthening your financial position — from improving saving discipline and managing debt intentionally, to designing habits that compound over time. We examine how small, consistent behaviours often matter more than dramatic, one-time changes.</p> <p>Join us for a grounded and motivating conversation about taking control of your financial future. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to refine your strategy, this episode offers a structured, principle-based approach to building stability, clarity, and long-term prosperity in an increasingly uncertain world.</p> <p>All the love, all the power, all of the time!</p> <p>If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link: <a href="https://linktr.ee/w.salski">https://linktr.ee/w.salski</a></p> <p>Instagram: / unusual.stories_podcast</p> <p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@WS%5C_Podcast">https://www.youtube.com/@WS\_Podcast</a></p> <p><a href="http://Primal.net">Primal.net</a>: @wspodcast</p> <p>Link to the book on Amazon: <a href="https://amzn.eu/d/02p0hpMS">https://amzn.eu/d/02p0hpMS</a></p> <p>Related Media:</p> <p>"Let's Talk About Money" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/75naEHqjZy1fcObsjjhFec?si=f1718052b4e240a7">https://open.spotify.com/episode/75naEHqjZy1fcObsjjhFec?si=f1718052b4e240a7</a></p> <p>"Richest Man in Babylon" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/2xCaqTJupFu7jiIWqNNfPn?si=4e3d087db2664b72">https://open.spotify.com/episode/2xCaqTJupFu7jiIWqNNfPn?si=4e3d087db2664b72</a></p> <p>"Why You Shouldn't Buy Bitcoin?" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/5puvUXQwUH5GRNgQjVgZL9?si=e4fdf02e266f4e3f">https://open.spotify.com/episode/5puvUXQwUH5GRNgQjVgZL9?si=e4fdf02e266f4e3f</a></p> <p>"The Bitcoin Standard" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4AtMl4N6FXmfwo8CVueBvk?si=ce961af3d7df427f">https://open.spotify.com/episode/4AtMl4N6FXmfwo8CVueBvk?si=ce961af3d7df427f</a></p> <p>"7 Habits of Highly Effective People" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/480WQH0BQVFdshqODbWGji?si=34a20e16a98f44b2">https://open.spotify.com/episode/480WQH0BQVFdshqODbWGji?si=34a20e16a98f44b2</a></p> <p>"12 Rules for Life" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6GlA3XhyIhPYkVQJcff3Rz?si=543e8b3677594dc0">https://open.spotify.com/episode/6GlA3XhyIhPYkVQJcff3Rz?si=543e8b3677594dc0</a></p> <p>"Few Words on Energy" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6h2jGppenfi8O90D8IqhOY?si=39f83394541b4bc7">https://open.spotify.com/episode/6h2jGppenfi8O90D8IqhOY?si=39f83394541b4bc7</a></p> <p>"Successful Year(s)" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1u1LVAGfTYis4308n9gGat?si=d2a7df0bca904c0e">https://open.spotify.com/episode/1u1LVAGfTYis4308n9gGat?si=d2a7df0bca904c0e</a></p> <p>"Price of Tomorrow" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/29MqPQAYk1BttGYCPamwz3?si=a9af7262da334f26">https://open.spotify.com/episode/29MqPQAYk1BttGYCPamwz3?si=a9af7262da334f26</a></p>

<p>In this week’s episode, we dive into <em>The New Confessions of an Economic Hitman</em>, unpacking a chilling account of how modern empire operates — not through open warfare, but through debt, fear, and economic manipulation.</p> <p>We explore the book’s central claim: that a global “corporatocracy” quietly shapes world events by ensnaring nations in financial dependency. Through inflated economic forecasts, engineered loans, and strategic political influence, countries are drawn into a web of obligation that benefits multinational corporations while leaving local populations burdened with austerity, instability, and widening inequality. We examine the three-tier model described in the book — the Economic Hitman, the Jackal, and finally the Military — and what it suggests about how power is enforced when persuasion fails.</p> <p>We also reflect on the psychology behind the system. How do intelligent, well-meaning individuals become instruments of exploitation? The book’s personal narrative reveals how ambition, rationalisation, and gradual compromise can turn “development work” into economic colonisation. We discuss the idea that the system persists not only because of corruption at the top, but because of silence, complicity, and incentives that reward short-term gain over long-term wellbeing.</p> <p>Beyond historical examples — from Iran and Panama to Ecuador and Saudi Arabia — we consider how the strategy has evolved. Today’s tools may include subsidies, tax incentives, vulture funds, private military contractors, and financial engineering that shifts public wealth into corporate hands. We examine the provocative assertion that both Western powers and rising powers like China deploy similar debt-based leverage, and what this means for a multipolar world shaped by financial rather than territorial conquest.</p> <p>Finally, we turn to the book’s most hopeful dimension: the call to move from what it describes as a “death economy” — driven by extraction, fear, and scarcity — toward a “life economy” rooted in responsibility, cooperation, and conscious choice. We discuss the practical implications of this shift, including ethical consumption, community resilience, campaign finance reform, and the power of narrative in shaping incentives.</p> <p>Join us for a conversation that blends geopolitics, economics, ethics, and systems thinking. This episode challenges comfortable assumptions about development, aid, and global power — and asks a deeper question: if fear and debt sustain modern empires, what would it take to build something different?</p> <p>All the love, all the power, all of the time!</p> <p>If you'd like to support the podcast, follow this link: <a href="https://linktr.ee/w.salski">https://linktr.ee/w.salski</a></p> <p>Instagram: / unusual.stories_podcast</p> <p>YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@WS%5C_Podcast">https://www.youtube.com/@WS\_Podcast</a></p> <p><a href="http://Primal.net">Primal.net</a>: @wspodcast</p> <p>Link to the book on Amazon: <a href="https://amzn.eu/d/014J2ks6">https://amzn.eu/d/014J2ks6</a></p> <p>Related Media:</p> <p>"Let's Talk About Money" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/75naEHqjZy1fcObsjjhFec?si=f1718052b4e240a7">https://open.spotify.com/episode/75naEHqjZy1fcObsjjhFec?si=f1718052b4e240a7</a></p> <p>"Why You Shouldn't Buy Bitcoin?" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/5puvUXQwUH5GRNgQjVgZL9?si=e4fdf02e266f4e3f">https://open.spotify.com/episode/5puvUXQwUH5GRNgQjVgZL9?si=e4fdf02e266f4e3f</a></p> <p>"The Bitcoin Standard" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4AtMl4N6FXmfwo8CVueBvk?si=ce961af3d7df427f">https://open.spotify.com/episode/4AtMl4N6FXmfwo8CVueBvk?si=ce961af3d7df427f</a></p> <p>"The Creature from Jekyll Island" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1m01JKWp4m8TXxCp96Pf1f?si=9c14e5dfcb0a4a4a">https://open.spotify.com/episode/1m01JKWp4m8TXxCp96Pf1f?si=9c14e5dfcb0a4a4a</a></p> <p>"Price of Tomorrow" - <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/29MqPQAYk1BttGYCPamwz3?si=a9af7262da334f26">https://open.spotify.com/episode/29MqPQAYk1BttGYCPamwz3?si=a9af7262da334f26</a></p> <p>Simon Dixon's Work - <a href="https://www.simondixon.com">https://www.simondixon.com</a></p>