# Fat China > A mysterious Senate primary victory in South Carolina and a psychological profile of the President collide with China’s strategic resource grab in a destabilizing South Africa. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 208 - **Published:** 2010-06-13 - **Length:** 1h 58m - **Topics:** Alvin Greene, Fat China, Chantix side effects, Blue Stream 2, [Julius Malema](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julius-malema.md), [Obamacare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obamacare.md), NASA solar warnings - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china ## About this episode The Obama administration faces a psychological and political reckoning as psychotherapist Robin of Berkeley publishes a profile in American Thinker suggesting the President exhibits signs of childhood trauma and Schizotypal Disorder. While Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel reportedly prepares to exit the White House, a political firestorm erupts in South Carolina where an unemployed veteran named Alvin Greene secured the Democratic Senate nomination despite a total lack of campaigning. The victory has prompted House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn to call for a federal investigation into the source of Greene’s filing fee and his recent felony obscenity charges. Global instability deepens as the ANC Youth League’s Julius Malema advocates for Zimbabwe-style land seizures and the nationalization of South African mineral reserves. This internal tension coincides with a massive resource grab by China, which is positioning itself to fill the vacuum left by nearly one million white South Africans fleeing the country since 1994. Meanwhile, the geopolitical fallout from the Israeli raid on a Turkish flotilla reveals a hidden energy war over the Blue Stream 2 pipeline and Russia’s attempt to dominate natural gas supplies to the Mediterranean. In the United States, the FBI has launched a massive mortgage fraud crackdown, which serves as a tactical distraction from the complicity of major banks in the subprime crisis. Dame Andrea Spongberg receives her official knighthood during this session as the community prepares for a No Agenda Gathering in Madrid. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak analyze the disturbing marketing of the antidepressant Pristiq and the smoking cessation drug Chantix, noting reports of users entering zombie-like states. The program also highlights the rise of the six-pocket syndrome in China, where the one-child policy has produced a generation of little emperors facing an unprecedented obesity epidemic. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/transcript.md. ### 1. No Agenda Episode 208, Gitmo Nation Media Assassination (0:00–1:43) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 208 of the No Agenda show from their respective locations in Southern California and Silicon Valley. Curry reports feeling ill with a potential stomach virus, jokingly referred to as Nardo or Nando's. The hosts establish the "Gitmo Nation" theme and prepare to analyze the week's media narratives. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [media assassination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-assassination.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Producer Credits, Dame Andrea Spongberg Knighthood (1:44–5:23) The hosts acknowledge Andrew McKinnon as the series producer for June and announce a new knighthood for Andrea Spongberg. Kelly Spongberg donated to surprise Andrea with the title of Dame, citing a need for "No Agenda karma" following a family medical diagnosis. Elaine Hengem is also recognized as an associate executive producer for her contribution from Gainesville, Florida. Keywords: andrea spongberg, kelly spongberg, [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), elaine hengem, andrew mckinnon [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/2.md) ### 3. No Agenda Gathering, Madrid Meetup Coordination (5:24–7:57) A "No Agenda Gathering" or "NAG" is announced for Thursday, June 17th, in Madrid, Spain. The event is hosted by Fakina Shol, who has dubbed the region "Gitmo Nation Castanets." Listeners are directed to a dedicated webpage with a map and signup sheet to coordinate with other "naggers" in the area. Keywords: [madrid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/madrid.md), [spain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spain.md), gitmo nation castanets, fakina shol, [meetup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meetup.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/3.md) ### 4. No Agenda Art Generator, Community Contributions (7:58–9:39) The hosts highlight the No Agenda Art Generator website, which allows listeners to create custom montage artwork for the show. The tool overlays official show elements designed by Randy Asher onto user-uploaded images. Recent artistic contributions from Paul T and Paul Couture are praised for maintaining the show's visual identity. Keywords: [randy asher](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/randy-asher.md), [paul t](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-t.md), [paul couture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-couture.md), [album art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/album-art.md), [graphic design](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/graphic-design.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Health Insurance Rate Hikes, Obamacare Impact (9:40–10:43) An internal email from Mevio human resources reveals a 6% increase in dental insurance rates under the Guardian plan. The hosts attribute the rising costs to the early effects of the Affordable Care Act, colloquially known as Obamacare. They express frustration that insurance premiums are rising despite political promises of cost reductions. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [mevio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mevio.md), [guardian](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/guardian.md), dental insurance, [healthcare reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/healthcare-reform.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Adult Pertussis Vaccine, Whooping Cough Guilt Campaign (10:44–12:19) A television commercial warns parents that they are the primary spreaders of pertussis, or whooping cough, to their infants. The advertisement encourages adults to receive a pertussis vaccine to prevent potentially fatal infections in babies. The hosts criticize the ad for using guilt-based marketing tactics and disturbing audio of a coughing infant. Keywords: [pertussis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pertussis.md), [whooping cough](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/whooping-cough.md), [vaccine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccine.md), [healthcare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/healthcare.md), [pharmaceutical ads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pharmaceutical-ads.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/6.md) ### 7. WikiLeaks, Bradley Manning and State Department Cables (12:20–17:48) The detention of a 22-year-old intelligence officer, later identified as Bradley Manning, is discussed following the leak of a helicopter combat video to WikiLeaks. The leak reportedly includes 260,000 classified State Department "cables" covering topics such as the Vatican's sex abuse scandals. The hosts question why WikiLeaks is withholding certain documents and express skepticism regarding the term "cables" in modern diplomacy. Keywords: [julian assange](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julian-assange.md), [bradley manning](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bradley-manning.md), [wikileaks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikileaks.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [cables](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cables.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/7.md) ### 8. American Thinker, Psychological Analysis of Barack Obama (17:49–21:39) An article from AmericanThinker.com by psychotherapist Robin of Berkeley suggests President Barack Obama may suffer from childhood trauma or psychological disorders. The analysis explores theories ranging from endocrine disturbances to Schizotypal Disorder and high-functioning autism. The hosts discuss Obama's perceived lack of passion and "flat" emotional responses to national crises. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), robin of berkeley, [american thinker](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/american-thinker.md), [asperger's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/asperger-s.md), [psychology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/psychology.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Political Perception, Rahm Emanuel and White House Dynamics (21:40–25:35) The hosts discuss the public's growing dissatisfaction with the Obama administration and rumors of Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel's impending departure. They compare Obama's demeanor to previous presidents, including claims that George W. Bush was heavily medicated. Brief mentions are made of Michelle Obama's legal background and Bill Clinton's health issues. Keywords: [rahm emanuel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rahm-emanuel.md), [michelle obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michelle-obama.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [george w. bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md), [senate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/senate.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Alvin Greene, South Carolina Democratic Primary Upset (25:36–28:53) Alvin Greene, an unemployed veteran with no campaign website or funding, won the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate in South Carolina. His victory over Vic Rawl sparked national confusion and allegations that he was a Republican plant. Greene's media appearances are characterized by repetitive, vague answers regarding his "old-fashioned" campaigning methods. Keywords: alvin greene, [south carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-carolina.md), [democratic party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-party.md), vic rawl, [senate race](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/senate-race.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Keith Olbermann, Alvin Greene Investigation (28:53–33:50) Keith Olbermann and House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn call for an investigation into Alvin Greene's $10,400 filing fee. The discussion highlights Greene's arrest for "felony obscenity" involving a minor and a pornographic incident at a college dorm. Clyburn suggests Greene and other candidates may be part of a larger scheme to disrupt the Democratic primary. Keywords: [keith olbermann](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-olbermann.md), [jim clyburn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jim-clyburn.md), felony obscenity, [south carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-carolina.md), [campaign finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Voter Behavior, Open Primaries and Protest Votes (33:52–36:26) The hosts speculate on how a candidate like Alvin Greene could win a major primary, suggesting it may be a result of voter apathy or intentional "joker" votes. They discuss the mechanics of open primaries in California and South Carolina, where independent voters can influence party outcomes. The segment concludes with a transition to the BP oil spill coverage. Keywords: [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [south carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-carolina.md), open primary, [independent voters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/independent-voters.md), protest vote [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Jake Knotts, Racial Slurs in South Carolina Politics (36:27–38:56) South Carolina State Senator Jake Knotts faced criticism for using racial slurs to describe Nikki Haley and President Obama. Knotts claimed Haley, who is of Indian descent, was being "programmed" by a network of Sikhs to run for governor. He defended his comments as being "in jest" while insisting the state needs a "good Christian" leader. Keywords: jake knotts, [nikki haley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nikki-haley.md), [south carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-carolina.md), sikhism, [racial slurs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/racial-slurs.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/13.md) ### 14. FBI Mortgage Fraud Crackdown, Publicity Stunts (38:56–43:26) The Financial Times reports that the FBI is preparing to arrest hundreds of people for falsifying income on mortgage applications. The hosts dismiss the news as a publicity stunt intended to frighten the public rather than address systemic banking issues. They argue that banks were complicit in the subprime crisis by ignoring documentation requirements. Keywords: [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [mortgage fraud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mortgage-fraud.md), [financial times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-times.md), [foreclosure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/foreclosure.md), subprime loans [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/14.md) ### 15. South Africa, World Cup Tourism and 2006 Optimism (43:28–48:10) The hosts contrast current World Cup coverage with a 2006 Globe Trekker report that painted an overly optimistic picture of Johannesburg. The older report claimed crime was a thing of the past and highlighted luxury developments like Melrose Arch. The hosts suggest the media is ignoring the underlying poverty and social issues in the townships surrounding the new stadiums. Keywords: [south africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-africa.md), [johannesburg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/johannesburg.md), [world cup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-cup.md), globe trekker, [nelson mandela](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nelson-mandela.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Julius Malema, Zimbabwe-Style Land Redistribution Threats (48:11–52:47) BBC Newsnight reports on the rise of Julius Malema, the controversial leader of the ANC Youth League, who advocates for seizing white-owned land. Malema's rhetoric and the "Shoot the Boer" song have raised fears that South Africa could follow the economic collapse of Zimbabwe. The hosts criticize the Western media for failing to report on the deteriorating racial and economic situation. Keywords: [julius malema](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julius-malema.md), [south africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-africa.md), [bbc newsnight](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc-newsnight.md), [zimbabwe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zimbabwe.md), [apartheid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apartheid.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/16.md) ### 17. South African Inequality, Racial Tensions and Mining (52:47–56:41) Julius Malema targets South Africa's vast mineral reserves, including platinum and gold, for nationalization. Meanwhile, Ernst Roots of the AfriForum youth organization defends white farmers against threats of violent land redistribution. The hosts discuss how South Africa has become the most unequal society on earth since the end of apartheid. Keywords: [julius malema](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julius-malema.md), ernst roots, [platinum](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/platinum.md), [gold](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gold.md), [newsnight](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newsnight.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Global Interests, China and White Flight in South Africa (56:42–1:01:12) The hosts suggest that China is positioning itself to take over South Africa's mineral wealth as racial tensions drive "white flight" from the country. Statistics indicate that nearly one million white South Africans have left since 1994, including half of the men aged 20 to 40. A Goldman Sachs report is cited as evidence of a coordinated "big grab" of resources during the World Cup. Keywords: [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [pretoria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pretoria.md), [afrikaners](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afrikaners.md), white flight [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Listener Donations, Mexico Cell Phone Registration (1:01:14–1:04:42) The hosts thank various donors, including Kurt Cicero and John Martinez. A listener from Tijuana reports that Mexico has implemented mandatory cell phone registration to combat drug dealing, threatening to cut off service for those who do not comply. Catherine Cable from the UK is also thanked for her support and for recruiting new listeners. Keywords: kurt cicero, john martinez, catherine cable, [mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mexico.md), cell phone registration [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Dame Andrea Spongberg Bestowal, No Agenda Rings (1:04:43–1:07:24) Andrea Spongberg is officially knighted as a Dame of the No Agenda Roundtable. The hosts discuss the ongoing production of No Agenda rings, which are expected to be completed by the end of summer. They reiterate the requirements for becoming a knight or dame through significant financial support of the program. Keywords: andrea spongberg, [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [dame](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dame.md), [no agenda rings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-rings.md), [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/20.md) ### 21. NASA Solar Activity Warnings, Space Weather Cover Story (1:07:24–1:10:09) NASA's Heliophysics division warns that the sun is "waking up," potentially leading to severe space weather that could knock out power grids and GPS. The hosts speculate that these warnings are a cover story for potential internet shutdowns or EMP events related to secret space wars. They express distrust in the National Academy of Sciences' framing of the issue. Keywords: [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), [sun](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sun.md), [solar flares](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/solar-flares.md), [national academy of sciences](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-academy-of-sciences.md), [emp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emp.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Resume Padding, Executive Producer Credits (1:10:09–1:11:43) The hosts suggest that listeners who are unemployed can use "Executive Producer of the No Agenda Show" as a legitimate credit on their resumes. They offer to vouch for donors, explaining that the role involves story curation and financial support similar to Hollywood production roles. This is presented as a way to explain gaps in employment during the recession. Keywords: [resume](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/resume.md), [employment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/employment.md), [executive producer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producer.md), [job market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/job-market.md), [career advice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/career-advice.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Rabid Fox Attacks, Toyota Prius Skepticism (1:11:44–1:14:37) A report of a rabid fox attack in North Carolina leads to a discussion about the ubiquity of the Toyota Prius. The hosts criticize the Prius as a "statement car" that is overpriced and aesthetically unappealing. They argue that the environmental benefits are a scam, particularly regarding the disposal of large batteries. Keywords: [raleigh](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/raleigh.md), [north carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-carolina.md), [toyota prius](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota-prius.md), [hybrid cars](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hybrid-cars.md), [environment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/environment.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Prius Driving Experience, Rudy Sarzo Anecdote (1:14:38–1:17:12) One host recounts renting a Prius and finding the driving experience "flimsy" and uncomfortable. They share an anecdote about meeting legendary bassist Rudy Sarzo in Los Angeles, only to be shocked when the rock star drove away in a Prius. The hosts joke that driving a hybrid car is inconsistent with Sarzo's heavy metal pedigree. Keywords: rudy sarzo, quiet riot, blue oyster cult, [toyota prius](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toyota-prius.md), [los angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/los-angeles.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Pristiq Antidepressant, Targeted Daytime Advertising (1:17:13–1:20:17) The hosts analyze a commercial for the antidepressant Pristiq, noting that the advertisement features a "wind-up" robot metaphor. They observe that the commercial has been adapted for different demographics, including a version specifically targeting black women during daytime television. The segment highlights the extensive list of side effects mentioned in the ad, including suicidal thoughts. Keywords: pristiq, [depression](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/depression.md), [pharmaceutical ads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pharmaceutical-ads.md), [serotonin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/serotonin.md), norepinephrine [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Chantix Side Effects, Zombification and Vivid Dreams (1:20:17–1:24:22) Listener emails describe harrowing experiences with the smoking cessation drug Chantix, including extreme insomnia, vivid dreams, and "zombie-like" behavior. One account details an uncle who disappeared and wandered the city in a confused state while on the medication. The hosts question why the drug remains on the market given its potential to cause psychological breaks. Keywords: [chantix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chantix.md), [smoking cessation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smoking-cessation.md), [side effects](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/side-effects.md), [insomnia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/insomnia.md), [pfizer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pfizer.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Chantix Marketing, Pfizer Warning Labels (1:24:23–1:27:13) A Chantix commercial featuring a woman named Robin is played to highlight the drug's official warnings. The ad admits to potential changes in behavior, hostility, and suicidal ideation. The hosts mock the "sugar pill" comparison in the clinical studies and the overall danger of the product compared to natural alternatives. Keywords: [chantix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chantix.md), [pfizer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pfizer.md), [suicidal thoughts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suicidal-thoughts.md), [nausea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nausea.md), [pharmaceutical ads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pharmaceutical-ads.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/27.md) ### 28. BP Oil Spill, Media Hyperbole and Scare Tactics (1:27:13–1:30:47) The hosts critique the media's "9/11" style framing of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. They discuss a Rolling Stone article by Matt Taibbi and a report from a Russian professor predicting the spill could last 70 years. The segment suggests that the extreme environmental warnings are being used as a scare tactic to manipulate the public. Keywords: [bp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bp.md), [gulf of mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gulf-of-mexico.md), [rolling stone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rolling-stone.md), [matt taibbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/matt-taibbi.md), vladimir kucherov [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Blue Stream 2, Israeli-Turkish Flotilla and Gas Geopolitics (1:30:48–1:33:45) The hosts link the recent Israeli raid on a Turkish flotilla to a larger geopolitical struggle over natural gas. They suggest the incident is related to the Blue Stream 2 pipeline and Russia's attempt to control gas supplies to Israel. This energy conflict is framed as a precursor to a potential war involving Iran and Saudi Arabia. Keywords: blue stream 2, [israel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/israel.md), [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [natural gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/natural-gas.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Oil Cabal, Enron and Global Economic Interests (1:33:45–1:38:06) The hosts argue that the global economy is driven by an "oil cabal" that includes major banks like JP Morgan. They note that Enron was involved in the original Blue Stream pipeline and that Vladimir Putin is currently consolidating Russia's energy influence in Europe. The BP spill is viewed as a distraction from the continued expansion of deep-water drilling and rising oil prices. Keywords: [enron](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/enron.md), [jp morgan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jp-morgan.md), [bp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bp.md), [oil prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-prices.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/30.md) ### 31. EU Economics, German Austerity and Military Cuts (1:38:07–1:41:34) Economists debate Germany's refusal to increase spending, which some fear will lead to a "double-dip" recession in Europe. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates urges NATO allies not to cut military budgets. The hosts suggest these budget cuts might provide the U.S. with a catalyst to finally withdraw from Afghanistan. Keywords: [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [robert gates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robert-gates.md), [nato](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nato.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Sedentary Behavior, Health Risks of Sitting (1:41:35–1:44:44) New research suggests that prolonged sitting is a distinct health hazard, independent of exercise habits. A news report claims that sitting for just two hours can increase blood sugar and decrease "good" cholesterol. The laundry list of risks includes diabetes, heart disease, and various cancers, leading the hosts to suspect a future pharmaceutical "fix" for sedentary lifestyles. Keywords: sitting, sedentary behavior, [diabetes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diabetes.md), [cardiovascular disease](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cardiovascular-disease.md), health research [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/32.md) ### 33. TSA Body Scanners, Privacy and Security Consultants (1:44:45–1:48:00) The Chicago Tribune reports on the widespread acceptance of full-body scanners at airports despite initial privacy concerns. Former DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff is noted for his role in promoting the technology while representing the vendors. The hosts criticize the use of these machines to detect small amounts of drugs rather than actual threats to aviation security. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [body scanners](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/body-scanners.md), [michael chertoff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-chertoff.md), [airport security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airport-security.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Fat China, One-Child Policy and Spoiled Brats (1:48:00–1:51:21) China is facing a growing obesity crisis among its youth, attributed to the rise of Western fast food and the "six-pocket syndrome." Author Paul French discusses his book "Fat China," which explores how the one-child policy has created a generation of "little emperors" who are lavished with food and attention. The hosts compare this to the development of "spoiled brats" in the West. Keywords: [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [obesity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obesity.md), [mcdonald's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mcdonald-s.md), paul french, [one-child policy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/one-child-policy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Executive Order, National Prevention Council and Lifestyle Modification (1:51:21–1:56:34) President Obama issued an executive order establishing the National Prevention, Health Promotion, and Public Health Council. The council is tasked with "lifestyle behavior modification" targeting smoking, nutrition, and "sedentary behavior." The hosts link this to the "nanny state" and the mainstreaming of monitoring technology like Lindsay Lohan's SCRAM alcohol-monitoring bracelet. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [executive order](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-order.md), lifestyle behavior modification, [lindsay lohan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lindsay-lohan.md), [scram bracelet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scram-bracelet.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/35.md) ### 36. Show Wrap-Up, Gitmo Nation Sign-Off (1:56:35–1:58:34) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak conclude the episode by encouraging listeners to visit Dvorak.org/NA to support the show. They emphasize the importance of monitoring official sources like WhiteHouse.gov to stay ahead of government indoctrination. The hosts sign off from their respective "command centers," promising to return for the next "early service" on Thursday. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md), [whitehouse.gov](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/whitehouse-gov.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/208-fat-china/chapter/36.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/207-what-do-you-call-soy-milk.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/209-escrow-schmeshcrow.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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