February 09, 2026

Pepsi's Navy (A Dash of Info)

13 minutes

Send us Fan Mail

During the Cold War, selling soda to the Soviet Union wasn’t just difficult—it was nearly impossible. The ruble wasn’t convertible, capitalism was suspect, and Coca-Cola was seen as pure American propaganda. So how did Pepsi pull it off?

This episode unpacks one of the strangest business deals in history: how Pepsi broke into the USSR through bartering, traded soda for vodka, and—briefly—became the owner of a Soviet naval fleet. From Khrushchev’s televised first sip to submarines changing hands, this is a story about soft power, creative capitalism, and the absurd ways the Cold War was quietly negotiated—one can at a time.

Patreon
Support the show by becoming Patreon . Listen AD free and a week early. Have some one on one time wi

Big Fork Brands
Use Code INFOGO to get 20% OFF

Professor Bees Digestive Aid
Use code INFOGO to get 10% OFF

Big Fork Brands
Use Code INFOGO to get 20% OFF

Patreon
Support the show by becoming Patreon . Listen AD free and a week early. Have some one on one time wi

Cozy Earth
Use Code INFOGO to get 21% OFF

Old Glory
Use Code INFOGO to get 15% off at checkout

Strong Coffee Company
Get 20% OFF | Promo Code: INFOGO

Support the show

Thank You for listening and Stay curious,
Kat & William

Email [email protected]

If you would like to support Info On The Go click the link below