# Battle of the Billionaires

> Media narratives collide as the Koch brothers face intense scrutiny while global reports suggest weather modification and new loopholes in government surveillance systems.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 230
- **Published:** 2010-08-29
- **Length:** 2h 7m
- **Topics:** [Koch Brothers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/koch-brothers.md), [HAARP](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haarp.md), [Carlos Slim](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carlos-slim.md), Lead Bullet Ban, [SNCF](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sncf.md), RFID Trash, [No Agenda Records](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-records.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires

## About this episode

The Koch brothers face a coordinated media offensive as Jane Mayer of The New Yorker and outlets like Democracy Now! target their libertarian funding. Charles and David Koch are accused of orchestrating covert political operations, a narrative that contrasts sharply with the media's historical treatment of George Soros. This deconstruction reveals how associative messaging and neurolinguistic programming are used to frame philanthropic donations to the ACLU and cancer research as part of a sinister agenda.

Global tensions and domestic surveillance escalate as Pakistani and Russian sources allege the HAARP system is being utilized for weather modification during regional floods and heatwaves. In Mexico, a systems engineer for Carlos Slim claims to have installed a backdoor into the national ID system to allow citizens to delete their data. Meanwhile, the EPA considers a ban on lead ammunition under the Toxic Substance Control Act, and Cleveland implements RFID-tagged garbage cans to monitor household recycling habits. Additional reports cover the radicalization of prisoners in the UK and the arrest of a former Canadian Idol contestant in an Ottawa bomb plot.

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak knight new members into the No Agenda Roundtable, celebrating the launch of No Agenda Records with its first release by GX2. The program explores the absurdity of Summer's Eve advertisements and the technical hurdles of turning plastic into oil. From the dangers of ghost hunting on North Carolina train trestles to the automated emergency landing errors on British Airways, the hosts capture the strange reality of the week's news.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/transcript.md.

### 1. Southern California Weather, Reservoir Trespassing Anecdote (0:01–2:17)

The hosts open the program discussing the unseasonably cool weather in Southern California and Northern Silicon Valley. One host recounts a recent nature walk behind his home that led to a local water reservoir. He describes the lack of security at the site and jokes about the ease of trespassing near the water supply.

Keywords: [southern california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/southern-california.md), [reservoir](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reservoir.md), [trespassing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trespassing.md), [hiking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hiking.md), [weather](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/weather.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Executive Producer Credits, Matthew Carey Musical Song (2:18–5:42)

The show acknowledges top financial supporters, including Executive Producer Sean Connolly and Associate Executive Producers Troy Walters and George Tangen. A special mention is made of Matthew Carey, a playwright and songwriter from South Australia. Carey's new musical, "It's a Dad's Thing," features a song inspired by the show's themes regarding parenting and morning routines.

Keywords: [sean connolly](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-connolly.md), [troy walters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/troy-walters.md), [matthew carey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/matthew-carey.md), [musical](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/musical.md), [songwriting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/songwriting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/2.md)

### 3. No Agenda Dice, Branding Strategy Discussion (5:43–7:00)

A listener named Chris proposed creating "In the Morning" dice as a promotional item for the show. The hosts debate whether to include their faces on the dice, ultimately deciding against it to keep the focus on the show's brand rather than their individual personas. They express a desire to avoid "bobblehead" style merchandising.

Keywords: chris, dice, [branding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/branding.md), [merchandise](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/merchandise.md), bobbleheads

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/3.md)

### 4. GotNoAgenda.com Email Service, Revenue Sharing (7:00–8:48)

Enzo has launched gotnoagenda.com, a service offering custom email accounts and forwarding for fans of the show. The pricing is set at $33.33 for two years of storage or $22.22 for forwarding. Two-thirds of the revenue from these subscriptions is donated back to the podcast to support its operations.

Keywords: enzo, email hosting, gotnoagenda.com, [revenue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/revenue.md), digital services

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Knight Rings, Rearden Steel Signet Designs (8:50–11:11)

Sir Paul Couture has developed designs for official No Agenda knight rings made of Rearden steel. The hosts review the signet ring prototypes, which feature the "ITM" (Hit People in the Mouth) logo and a knight's helm. They decide that the rings should be exclusive to those who have achieved knighthood through the show's donation system.

Keywords: [paul couture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-couture.md), [signet ring](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/signet-ring.md), rearden steel, [knight](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knight.md), [branding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/branding.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Right-Wing Tag Team Label, Media Bias Claims (11:12–12:42)

The hosts respond to a listener's friend in Austria who labeled the show a "right-wing tag team." They reject this characterization, arguing that they criticize Fox News as frequently as left-leaning outlets like MSNBC. They assert that listeners often project their own biases onto the show's content.

Keywords: [frankfurt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/frankfurt.md), [rachel maddow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rachel-maddow.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), political labeling, [media criticism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-criticism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Laura Ingraham, Park51 Mosque Controversy Deconstruction (12:43–18:05)

The hosts analyze a segment where Laura Ingraham filled in for Bill O'Reilly on Fox News. They highlight Ingraham's apparent reversal on the "Ground Zero Mosque" (Park51) issue, noting she previously supported it in 2009. They criticize her for failing to address her change in stance even after playing a clip of Mayor Michael Bloomberg mentioning her prior support.

Keywords: [laura ingraham](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/laura-ingraham.md), [bill o'reilly](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-o-reilly.md), [michael bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-bloomberg.md), park51, [ground zero mosque](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ground-zero-mosque.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/7.md)

### 8. BuildingWhat.org, World Trade Center 7 Investigation (18:04–19:48)

A new campaign and website, BuildingWhat.org, has launched to raise awareness about the collapse of World Trade Center Building 7 on September 11, 2001. The site features architects and engineers questioning the official fire-based explanation for the tower's fall. The name is derived from a quote by New York State Supreme Court Judge Edward Lehner.

Keywords: [building 7](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/building-7.md), [world trade center](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-trade-center.md), buildingwhat.org, [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md), edward lehner

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Iraq War Combat Mission, Obama Campaign Promises (19:49–21:54)

President Barack Obama announced the end of the U.S. combat mission in Iraq, a move the hosts compare to his original campaign pledges. They discuss the distinction between ending the war and simply transitioning troop roles. The conversation also touches on unfulfilled promises regarding the closure of the Guantanamo Bay detention camp and government transparency.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [iraq war](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq-war.md), combat mission, [guantanamo bay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/guantanamo-bay.md), [campaign promises](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-promises.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Pakistan Flooding, HAARP Weather Modification Theories (21:54–24:45)

The hosts discuss reports from Pakistani and Russian sources alleging that the HAARP (High-frequency Active Auroral Research Program) system is being used for weather modification. Some Pakistani websites claim the devastating floods in the region were man-made. Similar claims are noted from Russian scholars regarding extreme heatwaves in Russia.

Keywords: [pakistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pakistan.md), [haarp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haarp.md), [weather modification](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/weather-modification.md), [flooding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flooding.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/10.md)

### 11. National Preparedness Month, Ready.gov PSA Criticism (24:45–32:53)

The federal government has designated September as National Preparedness Month, launching the Ready.gov website with various public service announcements. The hosts critique the "poorly acted" video series featuring a family preparing for disasters like toxic train derailments. They express skepticism toward the Citizen Corps and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), labeling them as government-run "grassroots" initiatives.

Keywords: ready.gov, [fema](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fema.md), [national preparedness month](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-preparedness-month.md), citizen corps, cert

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/11.md)

### 12. California High-Speed Rail, SNCF Holocaust Records (32:53–36:21)

California officials are requiring the French national railway, SNCF, to disclose records related to the transport of Jews to concentration camps during WWII as a condition for bidding on the state's high-speed rail project. The hosts link this to Edwin Black's research on IBM's involvement in the Holocaust and discuss the "We Will Not Be Chipped" movement.

Keywords: [high-speed rail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/high-speed-rail.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [sncf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sncf.md), [holocaust](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/holocaust.md), [ibm](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ibm.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Urban Infrastructure Report, California Rail Freight (36:21–37:47)

A report from the Center for Urban Infrastructure suggests that California's high-speed rail project may prioritize freight transport over passenger travel. The report focuses on linking Bakersfield and Fresno in the Central Valley. The hosts discuss the logistical challenges of the plan, including the need for massive parking structures and "air rights."

Keywords: [bakersfield](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bakersfield.md), [fresno](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fresno.md), [high-speed rail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/high-speed-rail.md), [freight](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freight.md), urban infrastructure

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/13.md)

### 14. British Airways Emergency Landing, Automated Message Error (37:48–41:31)

Passengers on a British Airways flight from London to Hong Kong were terrified when an automated announcement mistakenly informed them of an imminent emergency water landing. The airline apologized for the error, which occurred while the Boeing 747 was at 30,000 feet. The hosts speculate on how such a system is triggered and the potential for legal action.

Keywords: [british airways](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/british-airways.md), [emergency landing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emergency-landing.md), [747](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/747.md), automated announcement, [hong kong](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hong-kong.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Ghost Hunter Fatality, North Carolina Trestle Accident (41:31–43:00)

A ghost hunter was killed by a train on a railway trestle in North Carolina while investigating a local legend from 1891. Three other members of the group escaped, and one man pushed his girlfriend to safety before being struck. The hosts use the story as a cautionary tale about the dangers of trespassing on active train tracks.

Keywords: ghost hunter, [north carolina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-carolina.md), train trestle, [accident](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/accident.md), [paranormal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paranormal.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Carlos Slim, Mexican National ID System Loophole (43:00–46:05)

A computer systems engineer in Tijuana working for a company owned by Carlos Slim claims to be building a "loophole" into the new Mexican national ID system. The engineer allegedly inserted code that would allow individuals to remove themselves from the database via a specific URL. The hosts discuss the role of system administrators in resisting government surveillance.

Keywords: [carlos slim](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carlos-slim.md), [mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mexico.md), [national id](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-id.md), [sysadmin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sysadmin.md), [tijuana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tijuana.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Koch Brothers, New Yorker Covert Operations Article (46:05–48:55)

The hosts examine a Jane Mayer article in The New Yorker titled "Covert Operations," which profiles Charles and David Koch and their funding of libertarian causes. They compare this to Mayer's 2004 reporting on George Soros, noting a shift in tone. The discussion focuses on how "associative messaging" is used to frame the brothers' political activities negatively.

Keywords: [koch brothers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/koch-brothers.md), [jane mayer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jane-mayer.md), [the new yorker](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-new-yorker.md), [greenpeace](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenpeace.md), [libertarians](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libertarians.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Listener Feedback, Tattoo Policy Grievance (48:56–51:12)

A listener named Chris shares a grievance regarding his employer's policy that defines visible tattoos as "harassing behavior." Another supporter, Eric Gray, requests a shout-out for his podcasting colleagues and calls out a friend for not yet donating to the show. The hosts catch up on missed donation notes from the previous week.

Keywords: [tattoos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tattoos.md), [workplace policy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/workplace-policy.md), chris, ara der darian, [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Donation Segment, Washington State Speeding Tickets (51:12–56:09)

The hosts read donations from listeners in Georgia, Missouri, and England. A discussion about a listener moving to Tennessee leads to a critique of Washington State's traffic enforcement. They claim the state relies heavily on speeding ticket revenue in the absence of a personal income tax and advise travelers to use cruise control.

Keywords: [alpharetta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alpharetta.md), [omaha](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/omaha.md), [tennessee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tennessee.md), [washington state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-state.md), [speeding tickets](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/speeding-tickets.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Birthday Shout-outs, No Agenda Records Launch (56:10–57:32)

After brief birthday mentions for listeners Cody J. Stone and Chris Advent, the hosts announce the launch of No Agenda Records. The label's first release, "Amazing" by GX2, is now available on iTunes and Amazon. All proceeds from the music sales are directed toward supporting the podcast.

Keywords: [birthdays](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthdays.md), [no agenda records](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-records.md), [itunes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/itunes.md), [amazon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon.md), [gx2](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gx2.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Knighting Ceremony, Gene Simmons Hookers and Blow (57:32–1:00:54)

Sean Connolly and Matthew Carey are officially knighted into the No Agenda Roundtable for their $1,000 contributions. The ceremony includes the traditional "hookers and blow" meme, which the hosts note was recently referenced by Gene Simmons on his reality show, "Family Jewels," suggesting the show's influence is reaching mainstream celebrities.

Keywords: [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), [sean connolly](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-connolly.md), [matthew carey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/matthew-carey.md), [gene simmons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gene-simmons.md), [hookers and blow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hookers-and-blow.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Value-for-Value Model, Public Broadcasting Criticism (1:00:55–1:04:21)

The hosts explain the "Value-for-Value" funding model, contrasting their listener-supported approach with the corporate sponsorships found on NPR and PBS. They encourage listeners to contribute $5 a month to create a sustainable base for the show. They also mention that writers for Jon Stewart may be listening to the program for material.

Keywords: [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [pbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Terry Gross Fresh Air, Koch Brothers Deconstruction (1:04:22–1:09:56)

The hosts play a segment from NPR's "Fresh Air" where Terry Gross interviews Jane Mayer about the Koch brothers. They point out the irony of NPR being supported by corporate sponsors like Chase and Lumber Liquidators while criticizing the Kochs' influence. The summary lists the various brands owned by Koch Industries, such as Brawny and Dixie.

Keywords: [terry gross](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terry-gross.md), [fresh air](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fresh-air.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [koch industries](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/koch-industries.md), [jane mayer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jane-mayer.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/23.md)

### 24. George Soros vs Koch Brothers, Media Double Standards (1:09:57–1:12:46)

The hosts compare the media's treatment of the Koch brothers to that of George Soros. They note that Jane Mayer's 2004 article on Soros was far less critical of his "secret meetings" than her current piece on the Kochs. They also highlight that the Koch brothers fund non-partisan groups like the ACLU and the show "Nova" on PBS.

Keywords: [george soros](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-soros.md), [jane mayer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jane-mayer.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [aclu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aclu.md), [libertarians](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libertarians.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Neurolinguistic Programming, Political Word Association (1:12:47–1:18:05)

During a lunch with colleagues, the host observed how political "word association" and neurolinguistic programming (NLP) affect public perception. He cites the use of terms like "hardline," "coctopus," and "astroturf" as tools to create negative connotations. He specifically addresses the false association being created between the Koch brothers and the "Swift Boat" campaign against John Kerry.

Keywords: [nlp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nlp.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), swift boat, hardline, word association

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Greenpeace Report, Heritage Foundation Science Criticism (1:18:06–1:22:35)

The hosts deconstruct a Greenpeace report on Koch Industries that served as a primary source for recent media hit pieces. They criticize the report's use of inflammatory imagery and its claim that the Heritage Foundation "misinterprets science." They also clarify the actual funding levels the Kochs provide to the Cato Institute.

Keywords: [greenpeace](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenpeace.md), [heritage foundation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/heritage-foundation.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), [cato institute](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cato-institute.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/26.md)

### 27. SuperFreakonomics, Nathan Myhrvold Global Warming Views (1:22:35–1:24:18)

A Sunday Times article featuring Nathan Myhrvold and the authors of "SuperFreakonomics" challenges mainstream views on global warming. The scientists suggest that water vapor is a more significant greenhouse gas than CO2 and that some warming may be beneficial. The hosts note the skepticism these scientists express toward Al Gore's climate advocacy.

Keywords: [nathan myhrvold](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nathan-myhrvold.md), superfreakonomics, [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), [co2](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/co2.md), water vapor

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Democracy Now, Koch Brothers Media Hit (1:24:18–1:30:05)

The hosts review a "Democracy Now!" segment that echoes the New Yorker's criticisms of the Koch brothers. They mock the program's outrage over the brothers' philanthropic donations to the American Museum of Natural History and cancer research. The segment attempts to link David Koch's seat on a cancer board to his company's production of formaldehyde.

Keywords: [democracy now](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democracy-now.md), [amy goodman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amy-goodman.md), [koch brothers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/koch-brothers.md), [formaldehyde](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/formaldehyde.md), [philanthropy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/philanthropy.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Sulfur Dioxide, Cap and Trade History (1:30:05–1:31:42)

The hosts discuss the history of sulfur dioxide (SO2) cap-and-trade programs, which are often cited as a model for carbon trading. They reference an article from "Green Left" claiming the SO2 scheme was a failure that did little to address acid rain or ocean acidification, suggesting the current climate policy is based on a flawed precedent.

Keywords: [sulfur dioxide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sulfur-dioxide.md), [cap and trade](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cap-and-trade.md), [acid rain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acid-rain.md), [environment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/environment.md), green left

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Eutricity, Urine-to-Electricity Technology (1:31:42–1:33:34)

Researchers at Harriet Watt University have developed a method to generate electricity and clean water from urine, a process they have named "eutricity." The hosts discuss the potential for this technology in power generation and joke about its future applications in a "human resources" context.

Keywords: eutricity, [urine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/urine.md), [renewable energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/renewable-energy.md), harriet watt university, [engineering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/engineering.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Rubicon TV Series, Spy Briefcase Advice (1:33:34–1:36:32)

The AMC drama "Rubicon" features a scene where a character gives detailed advice on the ideal briefcase for a covert operative. The hosts debate the accuracy of this advice, with one host claiming to possess an actual "spook briefcase" that contradicts the show's description. They suggest the scene might be a form of intentional disinformation.

Keywords: [rubicon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rubicon.md), [amc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amc.md), [spycraft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spycraft.md), [briefcase](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/briefcase.md), [disinformation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/disinformation.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/31.md)

### 32. Facebook Post Sentence, EPA Lead Bullet Ban (1:36:32–1:38:36)

A judge in Alabama sentenced a former student to join the military following a Facebook post that caused a campus lockdown. Additionally, the EPA is considering a ban on lead bullets and fishing sinkers under the Toxic Substance Control Act. The hosts view this as a backdoor method of gun control by making ammunition prohibitively expensive.

Keywords: [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [military service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-service.md), [epa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/epa.md), lead bullets, toxic substance control act

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Cleveland RFID Garbage Cans, Plastic-to-Oil Break-even (1:38:37–1:40:59)

Cleveland is implementing RFID tags in trash bins to monitor resident recycling habits. Separately, the hosts revisit a viral video about turning plastic into oil. They explain that the process, known as depolymerization, has existed for decades but faces significant energy break-even challenges and safety risks due to combustible byproducts.

Keywords: [cleveland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cleveland.md), [rfid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rfid.md), [recycling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recycling.md), depolymerization, paul baskis

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/33.md)

### 34. Summer's Eve Ad, Vagina Monologues Discussion (1:41:01–1:44:30)

A controversial Summer's Eve advertisement in "Women's Day" magazine suggested that vaginal hygiene is linked to career success and receiving raises. The hosts discuss the societal pressure on women regarding hygiene products and reference a segment from "The Vagina Monologues" that satirizes the marketing of scented douches.

Keywords: summer's eve, [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), vagina monologues, women's day, [hygiene](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hygiene.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/34.md)

### 35. UK Terror Alert, Prison Radicalization Report (1:44:31–1:46:13)

A report by Professor Michael Clarke warns that the UK faces a "severe" terror threat from a new generation of extremists radicalized in prison. The report suggests that 800 non-terrorist prisoners will soon be released and may carry out "lone wolf" attacks. The hosts characterize this as part of a government "frighten-you-as-machine" campaign.

Keywords: [united kingdom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-kingdom.md), [terror alert](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terror-alert.md), [radicalization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radicalization.md), [lone wolf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lone-wolf.md), michael clarke

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/35.md)

### 36. Canadian Idol Terrorist, Ottawa Bomb Plot (1:46:14–1:51:14)

Khurram Sher, a former "Canadian Idol" contestant, has been charged as part of a homegrown terrorist cell in Ottawa. The group allegedly used public library computers to plot bombings of Parliament Hill and the Montreal subway. The hosts find the story absurd, particularly the detail that a suspected terrorist would audition for a national singing competition.

Keywords: canadian idol, khurram sher, [ottawa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ottawa.md), [ied](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ied.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/36.md)

### 37. BP Subpoena Power, Senate Procedural Obstruction (1:51:15–1:56:46)

The U.S. Senate blocked a bill that would have granted subpoena power to the commission investigating the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Despite passing the House with overwhelming support, the bill was halted by Republican procedural objections. The hosts discuss the partisan optics of the move and the dangers of opposing major oil interests.

Keywords: [bp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bp.md), [deepwater horizon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deepwater-horizon.md), subpoena power, [senate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/senate.md), [republicans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republicans.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/37.md)

### 38. United Egg Producers, Factory Farming Standards (1:56:49–2:02:13)

The website EggSafety.org, run by United Egg Producers, is criticized for portraying industrial egg facilities as small family farms. The hosts discuss the practice of "beak trimming" to prevent cannibalism in crowded cages and the difference in quality between industrial eggs and those from free-range chickens.

Keywords: united egg producers, [factory farming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/factory-farming.md), beak trimming, [salmonella](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/salmonella.md), [eggs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eggs.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/38.md)

### 39. Show Outro, Adam Curry on TWiT (2:02:15–2:07:25)

The hosts conclude the episode by discussing Adam Curry's upcoming appearance on "This Week in Tech" (TWiT) with Leo Laporte and Kevin Rose. They debate whether Curry should share his "contrarian" views on the Paul Allen lawsuit on another platform. The show ends with a final call for listener support and a sign-off from both hosts.

Keywords: [twit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twit.md), [leo laporte](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leo-laporte.md), [kevin rose](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kevin-rose.md), [paul allen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-allen.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/230-battle-of-the-billionaires/chapter/39.md)

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