This episode explores the fascinating Cold War trade deal between PepsiCo and the Soviet Union, highlighting the challenges of international commerce under currency restrictions. Starting with a 1972 agreement to exchange Pepsi syrup for Stolichnaya vodka, the deal evolved into an extraordinary barter involving 17 decommissioned Soviet warships. This unique arrangement made PepsiCo, briefly, the owner of a formidable naval fleet, demonstrating innovative trade practices and Cold War-era ingenuity. The story reflects the unusual dynamics of geopolitics and commerce. This podcast was created using Google Notebook LM.