# Cheerleaders for Science > Federal authorities seize control of the internet directory while global powers move to de-dollarize and the FBI orchestrates a holiday bomb plot in Oregon. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 256 - **Published:** 2010-11-28 - **Length:** 1h 56m - **Topics:** ICE Seizures, Portland Plot, Cloned Meat, Euro Trade, [Biometrics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/biometrics.md), [Ronnie Chasen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ronnie-chasen.md), Science Cheerleaders - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science ## About this episode The Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) launched a massive internet crackdown, seizing over 70 domain names including Torrent-Finder and Rap Godfathers. Technical analysis reveals these seized landing pages are managed by the IMMIX Group under a $7.8 million federal contract, utilizing Google Analytics to track visitors. This holiday-timed enforcement coincides with international efforts by the UK registry Nominet to allow the Serious Organized Crime Agency to take down websites via DNS, signaling a global shift toward centralized internet control. In the wake of the assassination of Hollywood publicist Ronnie Chasen in Beverly Hills, leaked coroner reports confirm the use of 9mm hollow-point bullets, fueling speculation of a professional hit. Meanwhile, the FBI arrest of Mohamed Osman Mohamud in Portland for a Christmas tree lighting bomb plot faces scrutiny after revelations that undercover agents provided the fake explosives and failed to record a critical meeting due to a technical difficulty. Geopolitical tensions rise as North Korea and South Korea exchange artillery fire, while Russia and China move to bypass the U.S. dollar by adopting the Euro for bilateral energy trade. In the European Union, Food Standards Agency scientist Andrew Wage approved meat from cloned cattle for sale, just as the administrative body banned Sweden from using national flags on food labels to suppress local identity. Bob Woodward appeared on C-SPAN to defend his neutrality, claiming he allows his young daughter to cast his votes in the booth. The episode captures the absurdity of the Taliban's internal power struggle, where a radical commander reportedly hacked Mullah Omar's envoy to death. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak break down the ScienceCheerleader.com initiative, identifying it as a PR campaign to sanitize the image of the NIH and NASA for future vaccination drives. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/transcript.md. ### 1. No Agenda Episode 256 Introduction, Gitmo Nation West (0:00–1:34) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 256 of the No Agenda podcast on Sunday, November 28, 2010. The hosts broadcast from their respective locations in Southern California and Northern Silicon Valley, greeting the live audience in the chat room. They introduce the show's theme of "protecting human resources" and "media assassination." 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), [southern california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/southern-california.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Department of Homeland Security, ICE Domain Name Seizures (1:35–7:01) The Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unit reportedly seized approximately 70 domain names, including Torrent-Finder and Rap Godfathers, for alleged copyright violations. Technical analysis of the "seized" landing pages reveals tracking via Google Analytics and redirection to servers managed by the IMMIX Group under a $7.8 million federal contract. A spokesperson for ICE, Corey W. Bassett, confirmed the court-ordered warrants to the New York Times, though skeptics noted the timing coincided with annual holiday crackdowns on counterfeit goods. Keywords: [homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homeland-security.md), [ice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ice.md), torrent-finder, seizedservers.com, [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Counterfeit Rolex Market, UK Website Takedown Proposals (7:00–9:53) Holiday enforcement against counterfeit luxury goods like Rolex watches often peaks in late November, particularly in locations like Canal Street in New York City. Simultaneously, the UK domain registry Nominet is considering proposals to allow the Serious Organized Crime Agency to take down websites via DNS. These international moves are viewed as part of the broader Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) framework for intellectual property enforcement. Keywords: [rolex](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rolex.md), [canal street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canal-street.md), nominet, serious organized crime agency, [acta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acta.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/3.md) ### 4. DNS Infrastructure, OpenDNS Blocking by Verizon and Time Warner (9:54–12:29) Domain Name System (DNS) serves as the fundamental directory of the internet, predating the web and allowing users to navigate via names rather than IP addresses. Major internet service providers, including Verizon Wireless and Time Warner Cable, have begun blocking or redirecting OpenDNS traffic to proprietary marketing pages. This practice is criticized as a tool for monetization that undermines the original intent of open internet protocols, especially as the transition to complex IPv6 addresses makes DNS more essential. Keywords: [dns](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dns.md), opendns, verizon wireless, [time warner cable](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/time-warner-cable.md), [ipv6](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipv6.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Executive Producer Credits, Brad Meltzer's Decoded Promotion (12:29–15:37) Executive producers Matthew Shower and Winthrop Minnesota are credited for their financial support of the program. Additional contributions from Sir Kelly Spongberg and Noah Cutler are acknowledged, with Cutler promoting his brother-in-law's new History Channel series, Brad Meltzer's Decoded. The television show investigates secret symbols and codes, including topics like the Bohemian Grove and the White House cornerstone. Keywords: matthew shower, sir kelly spongberg, [brad meltzer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brad-meltzer.md), [history channel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/history-channel.md), decoded [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/5.md) ### 6. No Agenda Coin Delivery Issues, GitmoNation.org SEO (15:38–18:38) A listener named Alan purchased the domain GitmoNation.org to redirect traffic to the show's main website for search engine optimization purposes. The hosts address ongoing delays regarding the delivery of 10-10-10 challenge coins, advising donors to contact "Eric the Shield" at a dedicated email address to resolve missing orders. They reiterate the "Value for Value" funding model, which relies on direct listener support rather than traditional commercial advertisements. Keywords: gitmonation.org, [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), eric the shield, [challenge coins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/challenge-coins.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Ronnie Chasen Murder Investigation, Hollywood Publicist Assassination (18:39–22:09) The investigation into the murder of prominent Hollywood publicist Ronnie Chasen has intensified following leaked coroner reports indicating she was shot with 9mm hollow-point bullets. Chasen was known for her ability to generate Oscar buzz for major films before being killed in Beverly Hills. The professional nature of the shooting has led to speculation regarding a targeted assassination rather than a random act of violence. Keywords: [ronnie chasen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ronnie-chasen.md), [hollywood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hollywood.md), hollow point bullets, [academy awards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/academy-awards.md), [beverly hills](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/beverly-hills.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/7.md) ### 8. David F. Nolan Death, Libertarian Party Co-Founder (22:10–24:45) David F. Nolan, the co-founder of the National Libertarian Party, died at age 66 in Tucson, Arizona, following a mysterious car accident. Emergency crews used the jaws of life to extract Nolan from his vehicle, but he passed away the following day of "unknown causes" in the hospital. His death is noted alongside other recent high-profile fatalities, including a BP executive involved in Gulf operations who died in a small plane crash. Keywords: david f. nolan, [libertarian party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libertarian-party.md), [tucson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tucson.md), [car crash](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/car-crash.md), political deaths [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Sumo Wrestling Results, Japanese Listener Outreach (24:46–26:17) A segment of recent sumo wrestling results is played to appeal to potential listeners and donors in Japan. The clip mentions athletes such as Miyabi Yama, Toyozakura, and Koryu, who clinched his first winning tournament. The hosts note that their current listener base in Japan is primarily composed of American expatriates and architects. Keywords: [sumo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sumo.md), [japan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/japan.md), miyabi yama, basho, [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/9.md) ### 10. FBI Portland Christmas Tree Bomb Plot, Mohamed Osman Mohamud (26:17–31:01) The FBI arrested 19-year-old Mohamed Osman Mohamud for an alleged plot to detonate a car bomb at a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Portland, Oregon. Court affidavits reveal that undercover agents spent six months grooming the suspect and provided him with a fake explosive device and a detonator phone. Critics argue the operation constitutes entrapment, noting that a key meeting where Mohamud allegedly expressed a desire to be "operational" was not recorded due to a "technical difficulty." Keywords: [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [portland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/portland.md), [oregon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oregon.md), mohamed osman mohamud, [entrapment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/entrapment.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Jihad Recollections Magazine, Spook Propaganda Analysis (31:01–37:09) A PDF publication titled "Jihad Recollections," hosted on Archive.org, is analyzed for its high production value and Western-style editorial layout. The magazine features articles on 9-11 and fitness tips for avoiding "evil" gyms, which the Portland bomb suspect reportedly contributed to. The hosts suggest the publication is a sophisticated "spook" propaganda tool designed by intelligence agencies to identify and radicalize susceptible individuals for future law enforcement stings. Keywords: jihad recollections, [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [archive.org](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/archive-org.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [osama bin laden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/osama-bin-laden.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Lyndon LaRouche Dope Inc, PayPal Refund Warning (37:10–39:22) The book "Dope, Inc.," originally published by the Lyndon LaRouche organization in 1978, has been re-released with claims regarding British involvement in the opium trade. The hosts discuss the book's introduction, which thanks US intelligence services, suggesting a complex relationship between LaRouche and the CIA. Separately, listeners who ordered 10-10-10 coins via PayPal are warned to seek refunds before the 90-year dispute window expires due to production delays. Keywords: [lyndon larouche](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lyndon-larouche.md), dope inc, [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), [american express](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/american-express.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Bob Woodward C-SPAN Interview, Obama's Wars Double-Talk (39:22–45:44) Journalist Bob Woodward appeared on C-SPAN to discuss his book "Obama's Wars," where he utilized linguistic patterns described by the hosts as "double-talk" or neuro-linguistic programming. Woodward recounted a 1990s anecdote where Al Gore told Bill Clinton to "get with the goddamn program," which Woodward framed as a positive example of candid truth-telling. The hosts argue Woodward functions as a conduit for military intelligence rather than a traditional investigative reporter. Keywords: [bob woodward](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-woodward.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), obama's wars, [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [al gore](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-gore.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Professor Obama Meme, General Petraeus Lead Sled Dog Quote (45:44–50:47) Bob Woodward describes an interaction where he showed President Barack Obama a quote about the corruption of war from author Rick Atkinson. Obama responded by referring Woodward to his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, leading Woodward to label the president "Professor Obama" for his intellectual strategic reviews. The segment also highlights General David Petraeus offering to be Rahm Emanuel's "lead sled dog" in Afghanistan, illustrating the friction between military leadership and the White House inner circle. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [general petraeus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/general-petraeus.md), [rahm emanuel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rahm-emanuel.md), [nobel peace prize](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nobel-peace-prize.md), rick atkinson [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Bob Woodward Voting Habits, Daughter in the Booth (50:47–53:09) Bob Woodward claimed in an interview that despite being a registered Democrat in Washington, D.C., he remains "avowedly neutral" by allowing his young daughter to cast his votes since she was four years old. The hosts mock this claim as either a fabrication or a bizarre parenting choice. They suggest his registration as a Democrat is a professional necessity for anyone seeking to maintain a vocation within the political culture of the District of Columbia. Keywords: [bob woodward](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-woodward.md), [washington dc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-dc.md), [voting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voting.md), [democrat](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democrat.md), neutral [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/15.md) ### 16. CBC The National Commercial, News vs. Emotion (53:09–54:51) A promotional advertisement for the CBC news program "The National" lists hypocrisy, anger, sorrow, and fear as the primary elements of a "good story." The hosts criticize the Canadian government-run broadcaster for prioritizing emotional manipulation over facts and truth. They note the commercial ran frequently during hockey broadcasts, reinforcing a specific psychological profile for the news-consuming public. Keywords: [cbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbc.md), [the national](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-national.md), [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md), [ministry of truth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ministry-of-truth.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Haiti Elections, Cholera Outbreak and UN Peacekeepers (54:52–1:00:34) Haiti held national elections amid a devastating cholera outbreak that has been linked to a UN peacekeeping base. Candidates Jude Célestin and musician "Sweet Mickey" Martelly emerged as frontrunners following the disqualification of Wyclef Jean. The hosts allege the election is being managed to facilitate the "Clintonization" of Haiti, involving the establishment of casinos and offshore banking interests while the local population suffers from lack of medical aid. Keywords: [haiti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haiti.md), sweet mickey martelly, [cholera](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cholera.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [un peacekeepers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/un-peacekeepers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/17.md) ### 18. North Korea Artillery Exchange, Russia-China Euro Trade (1:00:36–1:02:49) North Korean state media expressed regret over civilian deaths following an artillery exchange with South Korea, claiming the South used civilians as human shields near military facilities. The hosts suggest the conflict serves as a distraction from a significant geopolitical shift where Russia and China have agreed to use the Euro for bilateral energy trade. This move is interpreted as a direct effort to circumvent the United States dollar as the global reserve currency. Keywords: [north korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-korea.md), [south korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-korea.md), [nhk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nhk.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/18.md) ### 19. John Bolton on EU Democratic Deficit, Brussels Bureaucracy (1:02:49–1:05:21) Former UN Ambassador John Bolton criticized the European Union for its "democratic deficit," noting that the majority of legislation passed in the UK Parliament simply enacts decisions already made by unelected bureaucrats in Brussels. Bolton argues the European Parliament lacks real influence, leaving policy decisions to a non-transparent executive body. The hosts agree with this assessment, characterizing the EU as a fascist-leaning administrative dictatorship. Keywords: [john bolton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-bolton.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [brussels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brussels.md), [uk parliament](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uk-parliament.md), [democracy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democracy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Cloned Cattle Meat Approval, EU Labeling Restrictions (1:05:21–1:09:30) The Food Standards Agency's chief scientist, Andrew Wage, announced that meat and milk from cloned cattle are "unlikely" to present a food safety risk, leading to their approval for sale in the EU. Simultaneously, the EU has reportedly banned Sweden from placing national flags on jam and jelly labels to discourage nationalism and promote equal competition. The hosts argue these policies benefit large industrial corporations at the expense of consumer transparency and local quality standards. Keywords: cloned cattle, food standards agency, [brussels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brussels.md), [sweden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sweden.md), [labeling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/labeling.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Jose Manuel Barroso, Irish Wage Cuts and Defective Medical Devices (1:09:30–1:12:20) European Commission President José Manuel Barroso emphasized the need for "fiscal consolidation" and "social commitment" to preserve the European welfare state. A listener from Ireland reports that government employees have faced 25% wage cuts while public services for the elderly are being reduced. The same correspondent alleges that an American medical device company in Ireland, Lake Region Medical, is knowingly selling defective products while preparing to go public. Keywords: [jose manuel barroso](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jose-manuel-barroso.md), [ireland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ireland.md), [welfare state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/welfare-state.md), lake region medical, [fiscal consolidation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fiscal-consolidation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Donor Thank You Segment, Episode 257 Created By Credit (1:12:21–1:18:16) The hosts acknowledge various donors, including those on the $33.33 "boarding pass" subscription and those seeking "cloud karma." They announce a special "Created By" credit for anyone willing to donate $257 for the upcoming episode. The segment contrasts the show's listener-supported model with the "fake" non-commercial status of NPR and PBS, which the hosts claim run advertisements disguised as sponsorships. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [boarding pass](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boarding-pass.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [pbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Real ID Act, L1 Identity Solutions and James Loy (1:18:16–1:24:20) Florida has begun implementing the REAL ID Act, which will require a "gold star" on driver's licenses for citizens to board airplanes or enter federal buildings by 2014. The program is being managed by private corporations like L1 Identity Solutions, whose board includes James Loy, the former Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security. Loy defended his transition from government to a private company profiting from the legislation he helped create as "the American economic way." Keywords: [real id act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/real-id-act.md), [florida](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/florida.md), l1 identity solutions, james loy, [homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homeland-security.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Biometrics Task Force, BAT and HIID Systems in Theater (1:24:20–1:31:40) The Department of Defense is utilizing advanced biometric systems, including the Biometrics Automated Toolset (BAT) and the Handheld Interagency Identity Detection (HIID) system, in Iraq and Afghanistan. Lisa Swan of the Biometric Task Force explained that these "modalities" include iris, palm, and facial recognition, with plans to move toward DNA tracking. While currently used for "detainee operations" in military theaters, the technology is being positioned for friendly civilian applications such as accessing medical and financial records in the U.S. Keywords: [biometrics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/biometrics.md), [department of defense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-defense.md), bat, hiid, iris scanning [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Upton Sinclair, Evolution of Democratic Tax Policy (1:31:40–1:34:51) The hosts discuss the legacy of author Upton Sinclair, who wrote "The Jungle" and ran for Governor of California on a platform that included repealing the state sales tax. They contrast Sinclair's anti-tax socialist stance with modern Democratic and Progressive platforms that often advocate for increased taxation. They suggest the shift occurred because modern politicians view tax revenue as a pool of capital they can later access through private-sector roles after leaving government. Keywords: [upton sinclair](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/upton-sinclair.md), [the jungle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-jungle.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [sales tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sales-tax.md), [socialism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/socialism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/25.md) ### 26. ScienceCheerleader.com, PR for Influenza Vaccinations (1:34:52–1:40:43) The website ScienceCheerleader.com features professional cheerleaders who are also scientists and engineers, including employees from NASA and the NIH. The hosts speculate that this "babe fest" is a sophisticated public relations campaign designed to improve the image of science following various scandals. They predict these women will eventually be used as spokespeople to promote influenza vaccinations to a skeptical public. Keywords: science cheerleader, [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), [nih](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nih.md), [influenza](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/influenza.md), [vaccinations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccinations.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/26.md) ### 27. RAND Corporation Report, Social and Behavioral Science Funding (1:40:44–1:44:47) A RAND Corporation report commissioned by the CDC expresses concern that public acceptance of vaccinations is "severely underdeveloped." The report suggests that 95% of funding has historically gone to biomedical research, but more should be diverted to "social and behavioral science" to motivate the public. Simultaneously, Citibank has introduced a "Flu Care Card" to facilitate vaccinations at 17,000 retail locations, highlighting the corporate monetization of public health initiatives. Keywords: [rand corporation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rand-corporation.md), [cdc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cdc.md), [vaccinations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccinations.md), [citibank](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/citibank.md), [behavioral science](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/behavioral-science.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/27.md) ### 28. PBS Sid the Science Kid, Super Duper Antibodies Game (1:44:47–1:46:20) The PBS Kids website features a game titled "Super Duper Antibodies" on the "Sid the Science Kid" page. The game depicts the character Sid being injected with a large hypodermic needle to fight "evil virus thingies." The hosts characterize this as early-childhood propaganda designed to normalize medical injections and heroin-like imagery for young children. Keywords: pbs kids, [sid the science kid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sid-the-science-kid.md), [antibodies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/antibodies.md), [vaccinations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccinations.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Taliban Internal Conflict, Mullah Omar's Envoy Hacked (1:46:21–1:48:43) Internal reports from Afghanistan suggest a generational rift within the Taliban, as a new, more radical commander reportedly "hacked to death" an envoy sent by the group's emir, Mullah Omar. The older generation of Taliban leaders, who have experience in diplomacy and governance, warn that the younger fighters are unwilling to negotiate with the U.S. The hosts find the brutal nature of the internal power struggle to be a form of "high comedy" amidst the ongoing war. Keywords: [taliban](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taliban.md), [mullah omar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mullah-omar.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [pakistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pakistan.md), [isi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Barack Obama Basketball Injury, Hispanic Caucus Elbow (1:48:43–1:51:22) President Barack Obama received 12 stitches after being elbowed in the face during a pickup basketball game. The injury was reportedly caused by a member of the Hispanic Caucus. The hosts compare the incident to previous presidential mishaps, such as George W. Bush choking on a pretzel or the elder George Bush falling ill during a state dinner in Japan. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [basketball](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/basketball.md), stitches, hispanic caucus, [george w. bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Sheila Bair FDIC Warning, Wall Street Journal Op-Ed (1:51:22–1:54:38) FDIC Chairwoman Sheila Bair published an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal discussing the "quiet confidence" of the American public in deposit insurance. Bair warned that excessive government borrowing poses a danger to long-term financial stability and urged Americans to look beyond partisan interests. The hosts interpret her language as a "hidden message" warning that the FDIC is functionally broke and that citizens should consider moving their money out of traditional banks. Keywords: [sheila bair](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sheila-bair.md), [fdic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fdic.md), [wall street journal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street-journal.md), [bank run](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bank-run.md), [economic crisis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-crisis.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Show Outro, Thursday Schedule Announcement (1:54:39–1:56:21) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak conclude the episode by encouraging listeners to support the show via Dvorak.org or NoAgendaShow.com. They remind the audience of the "Value for Value" model and announce their return for the next live broadcast on Thursday. The hosts sign off from their respective "Watchtower" and "Silicon Valley" locations. 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), [podcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/256-cheerleaders-for-science/chapter/32.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/255-radioactive-butts.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/257-the-moment-of-truth.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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