# Neelis Kroes Is Hot > European regulators take the lead on big tech oversight while presidential hopefuls navigate the gauntlet of late-night television and shifting economic platforms. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 14 - **Published:** 2008-01-27 - **Length:** 1h 3m - **Topics:** [Neelie Kroes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neelie-kroes.md), Antitrust law, [Ron Paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md), [Sarbanes-Oxley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarbanes-oxley.md), SFO security, [Neoliberalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neoliberalism.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot ## About this episode European Commissioner for Competition Neelie Kroes emerges as the primary global enforcer of antitrust law as the European Union challenges the Google-DoubleClick merger. While the United States Department of Justice appears to have ceded its regulatory dominance, Kroes is aggressively targeting international cartels and price-fixing in industries ranging from paraffin wax to high-tech advertising. This shift in power signals a new era where European privacy and competition standards dictate the terms for American corporate giants. Domestic economic policy remains volatile as Ron Paul introduces a four-point revitalization plan aimed at repealing the Sarbanes-Oxley Act to prevent capital flight to London. Presidential candidates Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney are currently being vetted through the lens of late-night television appearances on David Letterman and Jay Leno, while Barack Obama gains momentum following a decisive victory in the South Carolina primary. Meanwhile, travelers at San Francisco International Airport report inconsistencies in TSA security protocols, including the manual 'SS' boarding pass markings and the aggressive marketing tactics of the Clear registered traveler program. Heavy storms in Northern California have turned the San Francisco Bay Bridge into a hazardous water feature, with flooding in the Yerba Buena Island tunnel causing massive traffic delays. Amidst the rain, the utility of Costco golfing umbrellas and the transition to PG Tips Special Blend tea provide small comforts. This episode features a correction from listeners regarding a Battlestar Galactica reference and a look at Verbatim archival gold discs designed to survive a century of media rot. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/transcript.md. ### 1. San Francisco Bay Area Storm, Traffic and Infrastructure Flooding (0:01–4:02) Heavy rain in Northern California caused significant traffic delays and localized flooding on the San Francisco Bay Bridge. Observations from the commute include water collecting in the Yerba Buena Island tunnel and large sheets of water falling from the upper deck of the bridge onto vehicles below. The storm reportedly dropped approximately six inches of rain over a short period, leading to hazardous driving conditions and office workers delaying their departures from the city. Keywords: [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [bay bridge](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bay-bridge.md), yerba buena island, goat island, [flooding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flooding.md), [traffic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/traffic.md), [weather](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/weather.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Book Titles and Seinfeld Coffee Table Book Reference (4:03–5:29) A discussion regarding the concept of a book consisting solely of book titles leads to a comparison with a fictional project from the television show Seinfeld. In the series, the character Kramer developed a coffee table book about coffee tables that featured integrated legs, allowing the book itself to function as a piece of furniture. The conversation explores the idea of creative concepts that require minimal writing once the title or premise is established. Keywords: book titles, [seinfeld](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/seinfeld.md), kramer, coffee table book, [publishing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/publishing.md), [humor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/humor.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Golfing Umbrellas and Colorblindness Testing (5:29–10:11) A chance encounter on Second Street in San Francisco prompts a discussion about the utility of large golfing umbrellas purchased from Costco. One participant describes carrying a heavy-duty green umbrella, while the other mistakenly identifies it as red, leading to a conversation about the DOTS colorblindness test administered in grade school. The durability of high-end umbrellas is contrasted with portable "bumper shoot" models that often fail in high winds. Keywords: umbrellas, [costco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/costco.md), colorblindness, dots test, [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), rain gear [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Neoliberalism, Globalization and Economic Policy Definitions (10:12–13:44) The term neoliberalism is examined through various definitions, identifying it as a set of economic principles favoring globalization and internationalism. Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton are cited as archetypal examples of neoliberal leaders. The discussion critiques definitions found on Wikipedia and Corpwatch, ultimately linking the concept to the economic strategies described in the book "Confessions of an Economic Hitman." Keywords: [neoliberalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neoliberalism.md), [ronald reagan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ronald-reagan.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [globalization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/globalization.md), [economic policy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-policy.md), [wikipedia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikipedia.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Free Speech TV, Gay News and CNET Buzz Out Loud (13:45–17:03) A review of alternative media networks highlights Free Speech TV and its "Gay News" segment, which is noted for its practice of outing public figures. The visual style of this programming is compared to the CNET podcast "Buzz Out Loud," hosted by Tom Merritt and Molly Wood. The conversation touches on the experience of finally seeing the physical appearance of long-time podcast hosts and how it often differs from the listener's mental image. Keywords: [free speech tv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-speech-tv.md), [cnet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnet.md), [buzz out loud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/buzz-out-loud.md), [tom merritt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-merritt.md), [molly wood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/molly-wood.md), gay news [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Podcast Consumption Habits and Commute Timing (17:04–19:34) The length of podcast episodes is identified as a critical factor in listener retention, as many users match their consumption to the duration of their daily commutes. A "wizard" concept is proposed that would automatically curate a playlist of tech, sports, and news based on a user's specific travel time. The hosts reject a listener's request to split their hour-long show into two parts, emphasizing the flexibility of digital playback. Keywords: [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [commute](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/commute.md), [ipod](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipod.md), [buzz out loud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/buzz-out-loud.md), [tech 5](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tech-5.md), [user experience](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/user-experience.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/6.md) ### 7. US Information Agency, Propaganda and Internet Jamming (19:34–21:44) Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld is quoted regarding the need for the U.S. Information Agency to expand its propaganda efforts into the digital realm through blogs and internet dissemination. This leads to a theoretical discussion on the technical difficulty of "jamming" internet downloads compared to traditional radio broadcasts like Voice of America. The concept of a company that could intercept and alter data streams is briefly explored. Keywords: [voice of america](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voice-of-america.md), [donald rumsfeld](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-rumsfeld.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [jamming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jamming.md), usia, [blogs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blogs.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/7.md) ### 8. SFO Customs Hack and Secondary Screening Experience (21:45–25:55) A traveler describes a recurring experience of being flagged for secondary screening at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) despite being recognized as a former MTV personality. A theoretical "hack" is proposed involving the manipulation of customs forms and the "M" or stripe markings used by Border Patrol officers. The story highlights the perceived inconsistency and manual nature of the secondary screening process for international arrivals. Keywords: [sfo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sfo.md), [customs and border protection](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/customs-and-border-protection.md), [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md), [passport control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/passport-control.md), security hack, [secondary screening](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secondary-screening.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Airport Security SS Markings and Clear Program (25:56–30:12) An incident at airport security involves a traveler receiving an "SS" (Secondary Screening) notation on their boarding pass after a perceived negative interaction with a document checker. The traveler claims to have bypassed the additional screening by simply not showing the marked pass to the next officer. The segment also critiques the "Clear" registered traveler program, likening its representatives to carnival barkers. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [secondary screening](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secondary-screening.md), [boarding pass](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boarding-pass.md), [clear program](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clear-program.md), [airport security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airport-security.md), [sfo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sfo.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/9.md) ### 10. PG Tips Special Blend Tea Transition (29:27–31:11) A brief update on personal beverage preferences confirms a total switch to PG Tips Special Blend tea. The product, originally a limited anniversary release in a gold box, is described as smoother than the standard PG Tips variety. The discussion notes the minor price difference and the health benefits of antioxidants found in the tea. Keywords: [pg tips](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pg-tips.md), [tea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tea.md), [antioxidants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/antioxidants.md), special blend, consumer products [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Verbatim Archival Gold Discs and Media Longevity (30:13–35:38) Verbatim has released a gold-layered archival disc designed to preserve data for 100 years. The discussion addresses the reality of "disc rot" and media failure, with one participant recounting the use of a high-quality Plexstore drive to recover data from a failing 20-year-old CD-ROM. The conversation questions the necessity of physical archiving in an era where most data is stored on Google or Apple servers. Keywords: verbatim, archival media, plexstore, [cd-rom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cd-rom.md), [data rot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/data-rot.md), gold discs [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/11.md) ### 12. 2008 Presidential Primary Predictions and Voter Fraud (34:57–38:10) Following Barack Obama's victory in the South Carolina primary, political predictions suggest a Democratic ticket of Clinton and Obama facing a Republican ticket of McCain and Romney. Rudy Giuliani's campaign is described as struggling due to concerns over his past associates. Allegations of voter fraud in various primaries are mentioned, alongside Ron Paul's "Going for the Gold" fundraising campaign targeting a five million dollar goal on February 5th. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [rudy giuliani](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rudy-giuliani.md), [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Candidate Performance on Late Night Talk Shows (38:11–41:41) The effectiveness of presidential candidates is evaluated based on their appearances on late-night programs hosted by David Letterman and Jay Leno. Mike Huckabee is praised for his quick wit and musical ability, while Mitt Romney is criticized for appearing "goofy" and lacking presidential style, drawing comparisons to Howard Dean's failed campaign. John McCain is noted for his comfort on television and his rapport with Jon Stewart. Keywords: [mike huckabee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-huckabee.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [david letterman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-letterman.md), [jay leno](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jay-leno.md), [jon stewart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jon-stewart.md), [howard dean](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/howard-dean.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Consumption Tax, VAT and the Black Market (41:42–45:14) Mike Huckabee's proposal to replace the income tax with a consumption tax is debated, with references to the Value Added Tax (VAT) systems used in Europe. While a consumption tax might capture revenue from the "gray market" and drug dealers, it is criticized for potentially creating a large black market for services. Personal anecdotes regarding the difficulty of managing payroll paperwork for small businesses are used to illustrate why people often prefer "under the table" cash payments. Keywords: [mike huckabee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-huckabee.md), [consumption tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/consumption-tax.md), [value added tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-added-tax.md), [vat](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vat.md), [black market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-market.md), [tax policy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-policy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Ron Paul Economic Plan and Sarbanes-Oxley Repeal (45:15–49:30) Ron Paul has released a four-point economic revitalization plan that includes televising Federal Reserve meetings and repealing the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The discussion argues that Sarbanes-Oxley has damaged the U.S. high-tech sector and driven capital to London by imposing excessive reporting costs and personal liability on CEOs. The act is characterized as a "knee-jerk reaction" to the Enron and MCI scandals that has ultimately hurt the American economy. Keywords: [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md), [federal reserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-reserve.md), [sarbanes-oxley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarbanes-oxley.md), [enron](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/enron.md), [financial regulation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-regulation.md), [marketwatch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketwatch.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/15.md) ### 16. EU Antitrust Enforcement and Neelie Kroes (49:32–53:17) Neelie Kroes, the European Commissioner for Competition, is highlighted for her aggressive stance on antitrust enforcement and cartel busting. A BBC "In Business" report by Peter Day suggests that the European Union has taken over the role of global antitrust regulator as the United States has "dropped the ball." The discussion mentions Kroes's past reputation in the Netherlands and her recent efforts to target price-fixing in various industries, including paraffin wax. Keywords: [neelie kroes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neelie-kroes.md), [bbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc.md), peter day, [antitrust](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/antitrust.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [microsoft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/microsoft.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Google-DoubleClick Merger and EU Regulatory Power (53:18–58:34) The potential for the European Union to block the merger between American companies Google and DoubleClick raises questions about international regulatory jurisdiction. While the EU cites privacy and competition concerns, it is unclear what practical actions they could take if U.S. entities ignored their rulings. An anecdote about meeting BBC journalist Peter Day describes him as a quintessential old-school reporter who interviewed the hosts about the early days of podcasting. Keywords: [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), [doubleclick](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/doubleclick.md), [neelie kroes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neelie-kroes.md), [mergers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mergers.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), [bbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/17.md) ### 18. No Agenda Format, Listener Feedback and Outro (58:39–1:03:14) The hosts reflect on the "No Agenda" format, noting that listeners appreciate the conversational, eavesdropping quality of the show. A correction is issued regarding a quote about networked computers, which listeners identified as being from the television series Battlestar Galactica. The episode concludes with a promise to return in a week and a mention of a "scathing review" of the show to be posted on a personal blog. Keywords: [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), battlestar galactica, [blog](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blog.md), [feedback](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/feedback.md), [sign-off](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sign-off.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/14-neelis-kroes-is-hot/chapter/18.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/13-turned-on-by-esther-dyson.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/15-hot-horse-meat-and-hidden-salami.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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