What if tariffs aren’t punishing foreign countries—but actually taxing YOU?
In Episode 27 of Unconventional Times, host Richard Gordon sits down with former Indiana congressman and U.S. ambassador to India, Tim Roemer, for a candid, eye-opening conversation that flips conventional economic wisdom upside down.
You’ll discover how policies touted as protecting American jobs might be hitting your own wallet, and what really drives the decisions behind America’s global economic strategies.
Key Highlights from This Episode:
- Tariffs Decoded: Tim Roemer lays out in plain English exactly how tariffs work, who pays them, and why the common narrative about punishing foreign countries is misleading. (Spoiler: It’s your bank account on the line.)
- Real Impact on American Workers: The discussion goes deep on how tariffs are affecting everyday Americans—from layoffs in Indiana’s car plants to the rising prices on everything from sneakers to washing machines.
- Restoring the American Dream: Roemer shares a heartfelt vision for how American politics and policy can truly empower blue-collar and middle-class families, drawing on personal stories from his time in Congress.
- Behind-the-Scenes Diplomacy: Get an insider look at the job (and adventure) of being the U.S. ambassador to India, including how foreign policy priorities are set at the highest level.
- The Power (and Perils) of Leadership: Drawing inspiration from historical figures like Lyndon B. Johnson and Theodore Roosevelt, Roemer and Gordon explore the messy, complicated reality of political leadership—and the art of knowing when to step down.
Tune in for this passionate, unconventional interview that will make you question what you thought you knew about tariffs, leadership, and the future of working Americans. Then, join us next time for Part 2 as Richard Gordon and Tim Roemer continue this enlightening journey through policy and public service.
What can YOU do today to make a difference with these insights? Start by sharing this episode and having the tough conversations that times like these demand.
00:00 "Uncertainty in US Markets"
05:56 "LBJ: Mastering and Misusing Power"
07:40 Johnson's Leadership and Achievements
13:36 "Why Tariff Friendly Nations?"
16:46 Tariffs: Misleading Narratives and Realities
18:02 Double Taxation Strategy under Trump
21:51 "Climbing the American Ladder"
24:43 Rebuilding America: Jobs and Security
29:33 Biden vs Trump: Taking Credit
33:23 "Principled Politics: Beyond Winning"
34:39 "Accept My Decisions or Vote Me Out"
40:34 "U.S. Diplomatic Outreach in India"
41:38 "Richard Gordon & Tim Romer: Part 2"
Timestamped Overview
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