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.
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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.
Episode 1 - Why Taiwan Matters
Episode 1
Monday, March 17, 2025 • Duration 45:21
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 background
Taiwan's journey from isolation to recognition
Introducing Taiwan to a new audience
Challenges in global diplomacy
Taiwan's role in global innovation
Maintaining democracy in the face of external threats
The evolving threat from Beijing
Opportunities for US-Taiwan cooperation in 2025
Ambassador Yui's recommendations for learning more about Taiwan
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 history
Dr. 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.
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.
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.
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 technology.
Talent Ecosystem in Taiwan (00:25:41:13 - 00:28:10:14): Michelle explains why semiconductors are a common topic and attractive career path in Taiwan due to industry size, high pay, and global opportunities.
Navigating Geopolitical Complexities (00:28:10:16 - 00:31:09:01): Michelle discusses how geopolitical shifts, particularly since COVID-19, have complicated the global semiconductor supply chain and how UMC manages risks.
Episode 7 - Keeping Watch on U.S.-Taiwan Ties
Episode 8
Monday, May 19, 2025 • Duration 50:39
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, particularly the question of the United States as a reliable friend.
Generational Differences in Views in Taiwan (00:41:47 - 00:44:41): Insights into how different generations in Taiwan perceive the U.S. relationship based on their unique historical contexts.
Misconceptions on Both Sides (00:44:41 - 00:47:26): Addressing common misunderstandings about Taiwan in the United States (e.g., threat perception) and about the United States in Taiwan (e.g., the monolithic view of U.S. policy).
Episode 6 - The KMT's Blueprint for the Future
Episode 7
Thursday, May 8, 2025 • Duration 54:11
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 (00:40:12 - 00:41:12): A brief discussion on the differing viewpoints within the U.S. regarding dialogue with Beijing.
The KMT's Future Vision and Younger Voices (00:41:47 - 00:44:41): Insights into the KMT's goals for internationalization and rejuvenation, and the increasing involvement of younger individuals within the party.
The KMT's Push for Parliamentary Reform (00:44:41 - 00:47:26): Discussion on the KMT's efforts to reform Taiwan's legislative processes to enhance checks and balances.
Episode 5 - The DPP's Agenda for Taiwan
Episode 6
Monday, May 5, 2025 • Duration 52:13
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 Parties in the US (00:27:04 - 00:30:50): Iris shares insights into the DPP's interactions with other political entities in Washington D.C., emphasizing a focus on factual communication rather than direct political infighting.
Continuity and Change Under President Lai (00:31:15 - 00:37:57): An examination of the policy continuities from the Tsai administration to the Lai administration, as well as new areas of emphasis, particularly in defense, foreign policy messaging, and economic diplomacy focused on future industries.
Episode 9 - Economic Security
Episode 10
Monday, June 16, 2025 • Duration 41:06
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 Director of Economic Security research at DSET (Research Institute for Democracy, Society, and Emerging Technology), Taiwan's premier think tank on national security and technology. Jeremy introduces DSET's mission and its founding context.
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Competition and Expansion Strategies (00:31:09:03 - 00:34:27:10): Discussion on the competitive landscape, including China's investments, and UMC's cautious approach to capacity expansion, citing its Singapore fab and collaboration with Intel.
Trusted Partnerships (00:34:27:12 - 00:35:39:22): Channing highlights Vice President Hsiao's emphasis on trusted partnerships as a cornerstone of the U.S.-Taiwan semiconductor relationship.
Future of Semiconductors and AI (00:35:40:00 - 00:37:11:13): Michelle discusses how ongoing trends like automation and AI will continue to drive semiconductor growth and innovation.
Michelle Yun's Taiwan Recommendation (00:37:11:15 - 00:38:13:18): Michelle recommends trying breakfast soup dumplings in Taiwan, especially from less famous, local spots.
Reflections on the Conversation (00:38:46:16 - 00:40:44:21): Channing and Libby reflect on sustained government support and the critical role of relationships (clustering effect, talent ecosystem, people-to-people ties) in Taiwan's semiconductor success.
Future Opportunities for US-Taiwan Engagement (00:47:26 - 00:50:26): Discussion on potential avenues for closer collaboration in technology, investment, and cultural exchange.
Shifting the Narrative: Taiwan as an Asset (00:51:14 - 00:52:16): The importance of framing Taiwan not as a problem but as a valuable partner for the United States.
Ting's Recommendation for Understanding Taiwan (00:52:16 - 00:52:16): Ting recommends visiting his hometown of Daxi (大溪) to experience the intersection of Taiwan's diverse cultures and history.
The KMT's Stance on the Defense Budget (00:47:26 - 00:50:26): Howard clarifies the KMT's position on recent defense budget discussions, emphasizing the context of record-high proposed and approved budgets.
Howard Shen's Recommendation for Understanding Taiwan (00:51:14 - 00:52:16): Howard recommends trying "neuro tongue" (beef soup) as a way to experience Taiwanese culture.
The Role of Young People in the DPP (00:38:59 - 00:43:13): Discussion on how young people are influencing the DPP's policymaking and their hopes for Taiwan's future, including efforts to engage youth in public service and policy discussions.
Addressing American Misconceptions About the DPP (00:43:33 - 00:46:52): Iris addresses common misunderstandings Americans might have about the DPP, particularly regarding its stance on independence and its progressive domestic policies, while highlighting shared anti-communist values.
Iris Shaw's Recommendation for Understanding Taiwan (00:46:52 - 00:49:44): Iris recommends learning about the "Keep Taiwan Free" bear and the broader movement for Taiwan's international participation as a way to understand Taiwanese identity and aspirations.
Taiwan's Unique Economic Relationship with China (10:04 - 12:08)
Jeremy explains the complex and evolving economic relationship between Taiwan and China. He describes how it has shifted from a complementary dynamic, where Taiwan helped industrialize China with technology and capital, to one of increasing competition as China aims for manufacturing dominance.
Jeremy elaborates on Taiwan's proactive stance on economic security. He notes Taiwan's implementation of an outbound investment screening system in 1993, predating many international counterparts. He also introduces Taiwan's "N-1 principle" for controlling technology flows, ensuring China’s access to Taiwanese innovation is always at least one generation behind.
The Future of Taiwan's Semiconductor Industry (19:33 - 23:30)
Jeremy discusses the current pressures on Taiwan's semiconductor industry to diversify manufacturing globally. He frames the investment of Taiwanese tech companies abroad, such as TSMC's presence in the US, as a "win-win scenario" that strengthens interdependence and serves the national interests of both the U.S. and Taiwan.
Creating "Non-Red Supply Chains" for Strategic Technologies (23:52 - 30:30)
DSET advocates for developing supply chains free from Chinese components, particularly for strategic technologies like drones. Jeremy explains the urgency, given China's dominance and "weaponization" of the drone market, and discusses Taiwan's active efforts to build these "non-red" supply chains, including collaborations with Eastern European countries to support countries like Ukraine.
Recommendations for U.S.-Taiwan Economic Security Cooperation (30:48 - 35:13)
Jeremy offers key policy recommendations for strengthening U.S.-Taiwan cooperation on economic security. He stresses the importance of leveraging Taiwan's unique, on-the-ground intelligence and know-how regarding supply chains and China's industrial activities.
Jeremy’s Taiwan Recommendation (35:13 - 37:19)
Jeremy recommends DSET's research report: "Walking a Tightrope: Navigating Taiwan-U.S. Semiconductor Security Under Trump 2.0," which can be found on DSET's website at dset.tw/en.
Reflections on the Conversation (38:45 - 40:44)
Channing and Libby reflect on the importance of economic security to national security and Taiwan's foresight in this area given its relationship with China. They also underscore Taiwan's role as a "center of excellence" for understanding and navigating complex economic security challenges when it comes to China.
