# Sell Your Kidney! > Leaked memos expose the price of Libyan oil as the Treasury Department defends its deep ties to Wall Street and the World Health Organization ramps up pandemic rhetoric. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 126 - **Published:** 2009-08-30 - **Length:** 1h 21m - **Topics:** Lockerbie leak, [Goldman Sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), Fed Audit, [Swine Flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swine-flu.md), Organ Trade, Geithner, [Gaddafi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gaddafi.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney ## About this episode Leaked documents from the United Kingdom suggest the release of the Lockerbie bomber was a strategic move to secure oil interests with Muammar Gaddafi in Libya. Prime Minister Gordon Brown faces scrutiny as memos indicate the administration prioritized energy security over justice, potentially positioning Gaddafi’s son for a future leadership role. The fallout coincides with the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy, sparking a debate over the Massachusetts Senate seat succession and the media’s portrayal of his burial at Arlington National Cemetery. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner defended the revolving door between Goldman Sachs and the federal government in a recent Wall Street Journal interview, describing former executives as essential statesmen. This defense comes as Congressman Ron Paul pushes HR 1207 to audit the Federal Reserve, a move Barney Frank suggests could pass the House by October. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization and Director-General Margaret Chan face criticism for H1N1 swine flu warnings that skeptics claim are being used to drive healthcare reform and vaccine sales for companies like Sanofi Pasteur. In the UK, Health Secretary Andy Burnham oversees a 40-million-pound swine flu call center where idle staff reportedly play Trivial Pursuit due to a lack of actual emergencies. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak dissect the absurdity of modern propaganda, from Law & Order SVU pregnancy pact plots to the US Forest Service profiling campers based on their preference for Tecate beer and tortillas. The duo examines the irony of Cymbalta commercials that pair bird chirps with warnings of liver failure and suicidal thoughts. Guest perspectives on the organ trade from author Sally Satel highlight the tension between the National Kidney Foundation and those seeking a legalized market for life-saving donations. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/transcript.md. ### 1. Adam Curry, John C. Dvorak, No Agenda Episode 126 Introduction (0:01–4:13) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 126 of the No Agenda podcast on August 30, 2009. Curry describes attending a haute couture fashion show in Amsterdam where his 19-year-old daughter walked the catwalk. The hosts coordinate their recording schedule for the upcoming week, noting Curry's travel plans from Chicago back to the Netherlands. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), fashion show [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/1.md) ### 2. UK Government, Libya Oil Deal Document Leaks (4:13–4:50) Leaked documents from the United Kingdom suggest that the release of the Lockerbie bomber was motivated by oil interests involving Libya. The hosts posit that the memos serve as a cover-up for Gordon Brown's administration to deflect from deeper political scandals. They predict that Muammar Gaddafi's son is being positioned to take over leadership in Libya. Keywords: [gordon brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gordon-brown.md), [libya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libya.md), oil swap, [muammar gaddafi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/muammar-gaddafi.md), [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Ted Kennedy Funeral, Massachusetts Senate Seat Succession (4:51–9:42) The passing of Senator Ted Kennedy prompts a discussion regarding media coverage of flag-draped coffins and his burial at Arlington National Cemetery. Potential successors for the Massachusetts Senate seat are analyzed, including Michael Dukakis and Carolyn Kennedy. The hosts recall Dukakis's failed presidential run and the infamous tank photograph that damaged his public image. Keywords: [ted kennedy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-kennedy.md), [massachusetts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/massachusetts.md), [michael dukakis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-dukakis.md), carolyn kennedy, [arlington cemetery](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/arlington-cemetery.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/3.md) ### 4. US Chamber of Commerce, Global Warming Trial Proposal (9:44–12:57) The US Chamber of Commerce has proposed a public trial to challenge the EPA's findings on global warming, focusing on whether climate change is man-made or inherently harmful. The discussion highlights the potential economic impact of cap and trade policies on small and medium-sized businesses. Mention is made of the Netherlands putting out a tender for a carbon trading system on the Euronext exchange. Keywords: [us chamber of commerce](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/us-chamber-of-commerce.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), [epa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/epa.md), [cap and trade](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cap-and-trade.md), [carbon trading](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-trading.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Dutch Royal Family, Associated Press Privacy Lawsuit (12:59–15:30) The Dutch Royal Family won a privacy case against the Associated Press regarding vacation photos taken in Argentina. The judge ruled the images lacked newsworthiness under European human rights legislation, though no monetary damages were awarded. The hosts argue the ruling is largely symbolic as the photos continue to circulate as part of the news coverage of the trial itself. Keywords: dutch royals, [associated press](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/associated-press.md), [privacy law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy-law.md), [argentina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/argentina.md), [human rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/human-rights.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/5.md) ### 6. WHO Warning, Severe Swine Flu Strain Claims (15:31–18:42) The World Health Organization issued a warning regarding a severe form of H1N1 swine flu that reportedly targets the lungs of healthy young people. The hosts express skepticism, suggesting the narrative is being used to push healthcare reform or expensive hospital treatments. Comparisons are made to the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, with claims that historical vaccinations and stress played a role in that era's mortality rates. Keywords: [world health organization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-health-organization.md), [h1n1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h1n1.md), [swine flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swine-flu.md), [1918 pandemic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/1918-pandemic.md), [vaccines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccines.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Population Control, WHO Incompetence, Margaret Chan (18:42–22:58) A discussion on the World Health Organization's history includes claims about the suppression of DDT and its impact on malaria deaths in poor nations. Director-General Margaret Chan's background is scrutinized alongside a Rand Corporation white paper regarding parental consent for adolescent vaccinations. The hosts suggest these organizations are aligned with population control agendas and corporate interests like Sanofi Pasteur. Keywords: [margaret chan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/margaret-chan.md), [world health organization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-health-organization.md), [ddt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ddt.md), [rand corporation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rand-corporation.md), [population control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/population-control.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/7.md) ### 8. UK Swine Flu Call Centers, Trivial Pursuit Controversy (22:59–24:40) Staff at UK swine flu call centers have reportedly been playing Trivial Pursuit and Monopoly due to a lack of incoming calls. The 40-million-pound operation, overseen by Health Secretary Andy Burnham, is criticized for its perceived waste of resources. The hosts mock the situation as an example of government inefficiency during a hyped health crisis. Keywords: [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), [andy burnham](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andy-burnham.md), [swine flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swine-flu.md), [call centers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/call-centers.md), trivial pursuit [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Gardasil Vaccine, HPV Side Effects Controversy (24:40–26:22) The hosts revisit their opposition to the Gardasil HPV vaccine, citing reports of paralysis and death in young women following the injection. They claim the drug was poorly tested and suggest its market push was a financial strategy to recover losses from the withdrawal of Vioxx. The segment emphasizes the high cost of the three-shot regimen and alleged risks to healthy teenagers. Keywords: [gardasil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gardasil.md), [hpv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hpv.md), [vaccine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccine.md), [cervical cancer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cervical-cancer.md), [merck](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/merck.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Organ Trade, Sally Satel, National Kidney Foundation (26:23–34:34) Author Sally Satel's book "When Altruism Isn't Enough" is used to discuss the legalization of a market for kidney donations. The National Kidney Foundation is criticized for opposing financial incentives for donors, which the hosts attribute to the influence of the lucrative dialysis industry. Additional reports mention a German company, Tutogen, involved in the secretive global trade of body parts extracted from corpses. Keywords: sally satel, national kidney foundation, [organ donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/organ-donation.md), [dialysis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dialysis.md), tutogen [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Timothy Geithner, Goldman Sachs Revolving Door (34:34–40:59) Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner's interview with the Wall Street Journal is analyzed, specifically his defense of the "revolving door" between Goldman Sachs and the government. Geithner describes former Goldman executives as "deeply honorable men" and "statesmen" necessary for navigating the financial crisis. The hosts mock his terminology, such as "walking back" government investments and the 16% return rate claimed for taxpayers. Keywords: [timothy geithner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/timothy-geithner.md), [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [treasury department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/treasury-department.md), bob rubin, [wall street journal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street-journal.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Henry Paulson, AIG Bailout, Geithner Tax Evasion (40:59–43:57) The segment examines the frequent phone calls between former Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson and Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein during the AIG bailout. Geithner's past failure to pay federal taxes is also addressed, noting his refusal to provide a direct explanation during public inquiries. The hosts characterize the government's actions during the 2008 crisis as "offensive" and "extraordinary" maneuvers to benefit specific financial institutions. Keywords: [henry paulson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/henry-paulson.md), [aig](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aig.md), [lloyd blankfein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lloyd-blankfein.md), [timothy geithner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/timothy-geithner.md), [tax evasion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-evasion.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Federal Reserve Audit, Ron Paul, Barney Frank (43:57–48:50) Congressman Ron Paul's bill HR 1207 to audit the Federal Reserve is discussed following comments by Barney Frank suggesting it may pass the House in October. Bloomberg's lawsuit against the Fed to reveal the recipients of two trillion dollars in loans is highlighted as a key transparency battle. The hosts debate whether such an audit would cause a market run or provide necessary public accountability. Keywords: [federal reserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-reserve.md), [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md), [barney frank](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barney-frank.md), [hr 1207](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hr-1207.md), [bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bloomberg.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Timothy Geithner, Resignation from Private Boards (48:50–51:29) A list of organizations Timothy Geithner resigned from to join the Treasury Department is reviewed, including the Trilateral Commission, the Council on Foreign Relations, and the Rand Corporation. The hosts question the "public service" nature of his role given his previous high-level affiliations and board fees. They note a one-year recusal period mentioned in his disclosure documents. Keywords: [timothy geithner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/timothy-geithner.md), [trilateral commission](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trilateral-commission.md), [council on foreign relations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/council-on-foreign-relations.md), [rand corporation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rand-corporation.md), group of 30 [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Cymbalta Commercial, Pharmaceutical Disclaimer Analysis (51:30–56:52) An analysis of a television commercial for the antidepressant Cymbalta focuses on the disproportionate length of the side-effect disclaimers compared to the sales pitch. The hosts note the inclusion of subtle audio cues like dog barks and bird chirps intended to influence the viewer's mood. They highlight the irony of an antidepressant warning of increased suicidal thoughts and liver failure. Keywords: [cymbalta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cymbalta.md), [antidepressants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/antidepressants.md), [pharmaceutical advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pharmaceutical-advertising.md), [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md), [suicide risk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suicide-risk.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/15.md) ### 16. TSA Cybersecurity, SRA International Contract (56:55–58:42) SRA International has been awarded a $53 million contract to protect the Transportation Security Administration's IT systems from cyberattacks. The hosts link this to Federal CIO Vivek Kundra's oversight and express skepticism about the necessity and cost of the project. They suggest such contracts often go unreported due to their technical complexity. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [vivek kundra](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vivek-kundra.md), sra international, [cybersecurity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cybersecurity.md), [information technology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/information-technology.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton Africa Trip Speech (58:44–1:01:00) Bill Clinton's speech to a group of bloggers is interpreted by the hosts as a subtle jab at his wife, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. While discussing her trip to refugee camps in the Congo and meeting with President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in Liberia, Bill remarks that American Secretaries of State "ought to be in the places of human misery." The hosts jokingly suggest he wants her to stay there. Keywords: [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [congo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congo.md), [liberia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/liberia.md), [secretary of state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secretary-of-state.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Law & Order SVU, Teen Pregnancy Propaganda (1:01:01–1:03:57) The hosts critique an episode of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit concerning a "pregnancy pact" among teenagers, labeling the show a propaganda tool. They mock the dialogue and the actress's delivery of a list of health risks associated with teen motherhood, such as dyslexia and blindness. The segment touches on the cultural trend of "accessory babies" popularized by celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Madonna. Keywords: [law & order svu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/law-order-svu.md), [teen pregnancy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/teen-pregnancy.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [television](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/television.md), [angelina jolie](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angelina-jolie.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Banana Extinction, Genetically Modified Forests (1:03:57–1:07:33) A fungal disease threatening global banana supplies leads to a discussion on the potential for Monsanto to introduce genetically modified replacements. Similarly, International Paper and ArborGen are seeking USDA permission to plant genetically engineered forest trees in the United States. The hosts express concern over the "Frankenforest" trend and the industrialization of natural ecosystems. Keywords: [bananas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bananas.md), [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), international paper, arborgen, [genetic engineering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/genetic-engineering.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/19.md) ### 20. No Agenda Donations, Website Technical Issues (1:07:34–1:12:35) The hosts address a technical failure with their PayPal donation link that caused a significant drop in revenue. They acknowledge several donors, including Ian Smith, John Matthews, and Barbara Starr, who requested a plug for a Girl Scout camp in Ohio. A new five-dollar monthly subscription option is introduced on the updated donation page. Keywords: [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [website](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/website.md), [crowdfunding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crowdfunding.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/20.md) ### 21. National Medical Device Registry, Healthcare Bill (1:12:36–1:15:05) A provision in the proposed healthcare bill for a "National Medical Device Registry" is scrutinized for its potential to track implantable devices. The hosts speculate on the implications of collecting "outcomes data" for Class 2 and Class 3 devices like pacemakers. They jokingly refer to the registry as a precursor to the "mark of the beast" or widespread human chipping. Keywords: [healthcare reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/healthcare-reform.md), [medical devices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medical-devices.md), [pacemakers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pacemakers.md), [hhs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hhs.md), national registry [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Hamid Karzai, Afghanistan Election Rift (1:15:07–1:15:46) Reports of a rift between Afghan President Hamid Karzai and U.S. officials emerge following allegations that his running mate is a heroin trafficker. Karzai reportedly walked out of a meeting with U.S. envoy Richard Holbrooke. The hosts remind listeners that Karzai was originally a CIA-backed leader installed during the Bush administration. Keywords: [hamid karzai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hamid-karzai.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), heroin trafficking, [richard holbrooke](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/richard-holbrooke.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Arctic Sea Hijacking, Russian Missile Claims (1:15:47–1:16:48) The hijacking of the Russian freighter Arctic Sea is linked by some sources to the Israeli Mossad. Speculation suggests the ship was carrying cruise missiles destined for Iran rather than its declared cargo of timber. The segment also mentions that U.S. Customs and Border Protection will maintain the authority to search laptops at the border for up to 30 days. Keywords: [arctic sea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/arctic-sea.md), [mossad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mossad.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [cruise missiles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cruise-missiles.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/23.md) ### 24. US Forest Service, Racial Profiling Warning, Outro (1:16:49–1:20:45) The US Forest Service in Colorado has reportedly issued a warning to look for campers eating tortillas, drinking Tecate beer, and playing Spanish music as indicators of illegal marijuana cultivation. The hosts mock the profiling criteria and the smell of the beer before closing the show. They announce the next recording for Thursday at 8 a.m. Pacific Time. Keywords: us forest service, [colorado](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/colorado.md), tecate beer, tortillas, [marijuana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marijuana.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/126-sell-your-kidney/chapter/24.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/125-breaking-news-ted-kennedy-is-dead.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/127-poppy-futures-blooming.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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