# It Can't Happen Here > A classic dystopian novel provides the lens for deconstructing modern political theater, from empty chairs at the RNC to scripted media narratives and veteran mental health mandates. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 440 - **Published:** 2012-09-02 - **Length:** 2h 58m - **Topics:** [Sinclair Lewis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sinclair-lewis.md), Eastwooding, [The Newsroom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-newsroom.md), Veteran Mandates, ICE Scandal, Thalidomide Apology, [Hantavirus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hantavirus.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here ## About this episode Sinclair Lewis’s 1933 novel It Can’t Happen Here serves as the backdrop for a deep dive into modern American propaganda as Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak analyze the rise of a totalitarian media state. The hosts compare Lewis’s fascist themes to Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged while deconstructing the Clint Eastwood RNC speech and the subsequent media-manufactured Eastwooding meme. From the Republican National Convention to the Democratic National Convention, the episode traces how political theater and scripted narratives are used to manipulate public perception. Specific media critiques target the HBO series The Newsroom, with Dvorak labeling the Aaron Sorkin production as liberal propaganda designed to rewrite history through deceptive voter fraud statistics. The analysis extends to MSNBC hosts Martin Bashir and Lawrence O’Donnell, who are cited for claiming Mitch McConnell used racial dog whistles regarding the PGA Tour. Further reports cover Suzanne Barr’s resignation from ICE amid sexual harassment allegations, Angela Merkel’s trade mission to an Airbus factory in China, and a new executive order that could enroll 100,000 veterans in a longitudinal mental health study involving the antipsychotic drug Haldol. Personal moments include Adam Curry celebrating five days of a no-smoking campaign and a debate over the physics of the Hydroxy Booster fuel technology. The hosts perform a knighting ceremony for producers Robert Brock and Eric Bodenstab while acknowledging a bizarre incident where legendary guitarist Roger McGuinn entered the show's chat room. The episode concludes with a skeptical look at NASA and the BBC reportedly erasing original moon landing tapes. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/transcript.md. ### 1. No Agenda Episode 440 Introduction, Austin and Silicon Valley (0:00–2:25) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open No Agenda episode 440 from Austin, Texas, and Northern Silicon Valley. Curry reports on his fifth day of a no-smoking campaign, claiming his eyesight has improved. The hosts welcome the "knights" and human resources in the chat room at noagendastream.com. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md), [media assassination](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-assassination.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Sinclair Lewis, It Can't Happen Here Book Review (2:25–6:31) The hosts discuss the 1933 novel It Can't Happen Here by Sinclair Lewis. Curry compares the book's themes of a totalitarian fascist state to Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged, suggesting Rand may have been influenced by Lewis. Dvorak also recommends Life and Death in Shanghai, a book about the communist takeover of Shanghai. Keywords: [sinclair lewis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sinclair-lewis.md), [it can't happen here](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/it-can-t-happen-here.md), [atlas shrugged](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/atlas-shrugged.md), gutenberg press, michael meyer, [totalitarianism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/totalitarianism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Penn State Scandal, Sweet Caroline Song Ban (6:32–10:33) Dvorak highlights the banning of the song Sweet Caroline at Penn State University following the Jerry Sandusky scandal. He claims the song was originally written about a 12-year-old Caroline Kennedy, making the lyrics "touching me, touching you" inappropriate in the context of the school's recent history. Keywords: [penn state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/penn-state.md), sweet caroline, neil diamond, [caroline kennedy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/caroline-kennedy.md), [sports talk radio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sports-talk-radio.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Global Fact-Checking Meme, Netherlands Snap Elections (10:35–12:09) Curry observes a global trend of media "fact-checking" being used as a political weapon, specifically noting its rise in the Netherlands ahead of the September 12th snap elections. The hosts briefly compare the Dutch coalition system to early American vice-presidential selection processes. Keywords: [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), snap elections, [fact-checking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fact-checking.md), [media bias](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-bias.md), [coalition government](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/coalition-government.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Clint Eastwood RNC Speech, Media Reaction and Eastwooding (12:11–20:05) The hosts analyze Clint Eastwood's ad-libbed speech at the Republican National Convention involving an empty chair representing Barack Obama. They criticize the media for labeling the 82-year-old actor as "senile" or "bumbling" simply because he did not use a teleprompter. They dismiss the term "Eastwooding" as a manufactured media meme. Keywords: [clint eastwood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clint-eastwood.md), [republican national convention](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republican-national-convention.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), eastwooding, [teleprompter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/teleprompter.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/5.md) ### 6. No Agenda Campaign Update, Tax Policy Rhetoric (20:06–20:53) Curry provides a brief political update on the rhetoric surrounding tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires. He notes the Democratic claim that Republicans intend to lower taxes for the wealthy while raising them for the middle class. Keywords: [tax breaks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-breaks.md), [millionaires](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/millionaires.md), [billionaires](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/billionaires.md), [middle class](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/middle-class.md), [political ads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/political-ads.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/6.md) ### 7. The Newsroom and The Postman Media Critique (20:54–23:16) Dvorak critiques the HBO series The Newsroom, calling it destructive liberal propaganda that attempts to rewrite history. Curry mentions the film The Postman, specifically noting a scene where the U.S. Postal Service oath is rewritten to include a line about "homeless trash" not stopping the mail. Keywords: [the newsroom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-newsroom.md), [hbo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hbo.md), the postman, kevin costner, [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [us postal service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/us-postal-service.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Bio-Terror Alerts, Vaccines Through the Mail (23:17–24:03) Curry shares an intuition regarding reports of the government testing vaccine delivery through the mail. He questions if this is related to ongoing congressional efforts to restructure the postal service or prepare for bio-terror alerts. Keywords: [vaccines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccines.md), [usps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usps.md), bio-terror, [congress](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congress.md), [mail delivery](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mail-delivery.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Voter Fraud Statistics, The Newsroom Propaganda Analysis (24:04–27:16) The hosts deconstruct a segment from The Newsroom regarding voter fraud statistics. Dvorak argues that citing only 86 cases of fraud over five years is a deceptive tactic, as voter fraud is notoriously difficult to prosecute without the very ID laws the show criticizes. Keywords: [voter fraud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voter-fraud.md), voter id laws, [the newsroom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-newsroom.md), [hbo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hbo.md), [republican party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republican-party.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Media Mind Control, Sex and the City Distraction (27:17–30:54) Dvorak analyzes a scene in The Newsroom where serious topics like London austerity riots and Mitch McConnell are rapidly followed by a discussion of Sex and the City. He argues this is a sophisticated propaganda technique designed to make the brain more receptive to messaging by pivoting to familiar pop culture. Keywords: [mind control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mind-control.md), [sex and the city](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sex-and-the-city.md), austerity riots, [mitch mcconnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitch-mcconnell.md), propaganda techniques [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Racial Code Words, MSNBC Analysis of Mitch McConnell (30:54–34:00) The hosts critique MSNBC's Martin Bashir and Lawrence O'Donnell for claiming Mitch McConnell used a racial "dog whistle" by mentioning the PGA Tour. The MSNBC hosts argued that referencing golf was a deliberate attempt to link Barack Obama to Tiger Woods' personal scandals. Keywords: [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [martin bashir](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/martin-bashir.md), [lawrence o'donnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lawrence-o-donnell.md), [mitch mcconnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitch-mcconnell.md), [tiger woods](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tiger-woods.md), [pga tour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pga-tour.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Forbidden Words List, Michelle Malkin and Juan Williams (34:00–39:45) Curry reviews a list compiled by Michelle Malkin of words now deemed "racist" by progressive media, including "angry," "aggressive," "Chicago," and "Constitution." He references Juan Williams' claims that GOP mentions of the Founding Fathers are euphemisms for slave ownership. Keywords: [michelle malkin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michelle-malkin.md), [juan williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/juan-williams.md), [racism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/racism.md), [code words](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/code-words.md), [constitution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitution.md), [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Barack Obama Iowa Speech, Black and White TV Comment (39:46–41:49) Curry highlights a comment made by Barack Obama in Iowa where he compared the Republican agenda to a "rerun" on "black and white TV." Curry jokingly labels the comment racist. The hosts also discuss the Republican National Committee purchasing promoted hashtags on Twitter to manipulate trending topics. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [iowa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iowa.md), [racism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/racism.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), promoted hashtags, [rnc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rnc.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Healthcare Law Claims, 2014 Implementation Date (41:51–44:16) The hosts question President Obama's claims that the new healthcare law is already "saving lives" and "cutting costs." Dvorak points out that the major provisions of the Affordable Care Act do not go into full effect until 2014, making current claims of success premature. Keywords: [obamacare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obamacare.md), [healthcare reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/healthcare-reform.md), [insurance companies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/insurance-companies.md), [2014](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2014.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/14.md) ### 15. GottaRegister.com and GottaVote.com, Dumbing Down Rhetoric (44:16–47:24) Curry ridicules the Obama campaign's use of the websites "GottaRegister.com" and "GottaVote.com." He argues the use of "gotta" instead of "got to" represents a "dumbing down" of the presidency and questions the linguistic choices made by campaign strategists. Keywords: gottaregister.com, gottavote.com, [ebonics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ebonics.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), campaign websites [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Obama Afghanistan Strategy, Sand Sculpture Metaphor (47:25–52:11) The hosts discuss Obama's campaign rhetoric regarding the war in Afghanistan and his criticism of Mitt Romney's lack of a plan. They also mock a giant sand sculpture of Obama being built for the Democratic National Convention, calling it a frightening metaphor. Keywords: [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), sand sculpture, [dnc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dnc.md), [iowa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iowa.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Ron Paul Campaign, Doug Wead on Romney Threats (52:13–56:14) Doug Wead, a senior advisor to the Ron Paul campaign, claims the campaign declined to attack Mitt Romney in Michigan because Romney threatened to "drop an A-bomb" on Paul's reputation. Curry expresses skepticism, suggesting the threat might have actually been directed at Rand Paul's future career. Keywords: [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md), [doug wead](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/doug-wead.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [rand paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rand-paul.md), michigan primary [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Peter Schiff Economic Predictions, 2013 Market Collapse (56:15–1:01:12) The hosts discuss Peter Schiff's predictions of a looming economic depression. Schiff argues that the Federal Reserve's artificial low interest rates are the only thing preventing a collapse and predicts a major crisis will hit during the next presidential administration, possibly by October 2013. Keywords: [peter schiff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peter-schiff.md), [economic collapse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-collapse.md), [federal reserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-reserve.md), [interest rates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/interest-rates.md), [2013](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2013.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Producer Donations, Simon Woodhead and Twit Controversy (1:01:13–1:04:05) Curry reads donation notes from producers, including Robert Rock and Simon Woodhead. Woodhead mentions he was moved to donate after seeing the "unfair treatment" of Adam Curry by Leo Laporte on the TWiT network, which he described as divisive. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [leo laporte](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leo-laporte.md), [twit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twit.md), simon woodhead, [anchorage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anchorage.md), [alaska](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alaska.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/19.md) ### 20. V-Moda No Agenda Headphones, Studio Gear Review (1:04:07–1:05:44) Curry reviews a pair of custom V-Moda headphones sent by Sir Robert Goshko. The "Knight Edition" headphones feature the No Agenda shield. Curry praises the sound quality and design but wonders if they are intended as reference monitors or consumer listening devices. Keywords: v-moda, [headphones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/headphones.md), studio gear, robert goshko, knight edition [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Value for Value Donations, Website Design Competition (1:05:45–1:11:08) The hosts acknowledge various donations from Honolulu, Indiana, and Texas. They announce a website design competition hosted by nagradio.com, where the winner receives a year of hosting and significant bandwidth. They also thank artists at noagendaartgenerator.com. Keywords: [honolulu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/honolulu.md), hurricane isaac, nagradio.com, [bandwidth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bandwidth.md), [web design](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/web-design.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/21.md) ### 22. New Jersey Pathmark Shooting, Veteran Media Narrative (1:11:09–1:19:05) The hosts analyze the media coverage of a shooting at a Pathmark supermarket in New Jersey involving a 23-year-old former Marine. They criticize the prosecutor and media for immediately emphasizing the shooter's military background and the use of an "AK-47" despite the shooter never being deployed. Keywords: pathmark, [new jersey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-jersey.md), us marine, [ak-47](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ak-47.md), [veteran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veteran.md), [mass shooting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mass-shooting.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/22.md) ### 23. AK-47 Meme, Media Scripting and Mind Control (1:19:09–1:22:36) Curry deconstructs a news interview with a neighbor of the New Jersey shooter, pointing out a moment where the witness appears to repeat a script provided by a producer regarding the "AK-47 as a military weapon." The hosts discuss the history of the Kalashnikov and its use in media narratives. Keywords: [ak-47](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ak-47.md), [kalashnikov](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kalashnikov.md), [media scripting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-scripting.md), [mkultra](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mkultra.md), [m16](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/m16.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Executive Order on Veteran Mental Health, 100,000 Enrollees (1:22:36–1:31:35) The hosts examine a new executive order aimed at improving mental health services for veterans. They express alarm over a provision to enroll 100,000 service members in a "longitudinal mental study" by the end of 2012, characterizing it as a potential "roundup" or "gulag" for veterans labeled as unstable. Keywords: [executive order](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-order.md), [veterans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veterans.md), [mental health](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mental-health.md), [ptsd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ptsd.md), tbi, [gulag](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gulag.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Edward Klein, Hillary Clinton Vice President Rumors (1:31:36–1:34:17) Author Edward Klein discusses a reported lunch between Valerie Jarrett and Hillary Clinton where the possibility of Clinton replacing Joe Biden as Vice President was raised. Clinton reportedly declined to avoid being tied to the Obama record ahead of a potential 2016 presidential run. Keywords: edward klein, [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [valerie jarrett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/valerie-jarrett.md), [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [2016 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2016-election.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Bill Clinton DNC Speech, 2016 Strategy (1:34:19–1:38:38) Edward Klein reports that Bill Clinton is writing his Democratic National Convention speech in longhand and refusing to share the contents with the Obama campaign. The hosts suggest the Clintons are positioning themselves for 2016 while distancing Hillary from the current administration by sending her to Vladivostok during the convention. Keywords: [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [dnc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dnc.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [vladivostok](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladivostok.md), [2016 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2016-election.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Suzanne Barr Resignation, ICE Sexual Harassment Scandal (1:38:39–1:41:25) Suzanne Barr, the Chief of Staff at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has resigned following allegations of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. The hosts note the timing of the resignation over Labor Day weekend as a classic move to bury the story. Keywords: [suzanne barr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suzanne-barr.md), [ice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ice.md), [sexual harassment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sexual-harassment.md), [department of homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-homeland-security.md), [resignation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/resignation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Mark Halperin on Paul Ryan, Media Punditry Critique (1:41:26–1:42:56) Dvorak mocks political pundit Mark Halperin for his analysis of Mitt Romney's vice-presidential pick, Paul Ryan. Dvorak criticizes the "stupid" questions and circular logic often found in mainstream political commentary on shows like Charlie Rose. Keywords: [mark halperin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-halperin.md), [paul ryan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-ryan.md), [charlie rose](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charlie-rose.md), [newsweek](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newsweek.md), [punditry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/punditry.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Birthday Donations, Rain Stick Rituals (1:42:58–1:46:47) Curry and Dvorak process donations from Reno, Nevada, and Grover, Colorado. A farmer in Colorado requests a "rain stick" ritual to combat a record-breaking drought. The hosts also acknowledge a donation from a producer who won a court case. Keywords: [reno](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reno.md), [nevada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nevada.md), [rain stick](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rain-stick.md), [colorado](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/colorado.md), [birthday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthday.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/29.md) ### 30. International Producer Notes, Tokyo and London (1:46:49–1:55:28) Producers from Tokyo, London, and Australia send notes and donations. Sir Mark Dytham in Tokyo mentions his wife's doubts about the moon landing. A London producer discusses the "value for value" model and the high proportion of "genius" content in the show compared to other media. Keywords: [tokyo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tokyo.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md), [moon landing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moon-landing.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Croatia EU Accession, Journalist Training in Germany (1:55:29–1:58:25) A producer in Zagreb, Croatia, discusses the country's upcoming EU accession and austerity measures. Werner Bogula in Hamburg, Germany, explains how he uses the No Agenda show as an example of "uncorrupted journalism" in his training courses for journalists. Keywords: [croatia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/croatia.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [zagreb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zagreb.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [vietnam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vietnam.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Hydroxy Booster Debate, Hydrogen Fuel Technology (1:58:25–2:02:52) Curry and Dvorak reignite their debate over the "Hydroxy Booster," a device Curry claims improves gas mileage by injecting hydrogen into an engine's intake. Dvorak remains skeptical, dismissing the technology as "bull crap" and questioning the physics of creating hydrogen on-board. Keywords: [hydroxy booster](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydroxy-booster.md), brown's gas, [hydrogen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydrogen.md), [fuel efficiency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fuel-efficiency.md), arrow classic rock [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Birthday Acknowledgments, No Agenda Knighting Ceremony (2:02:53–2:06:44) The hosts perform a knighting ceremony for Robert Brock and Eric Bodenstab for their significant financial support. They also acknowledge various birthday wishes for Adam Curry, including a planned producer lunch in Helsinki, Finland. Keywords: [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), robert brock, eric bodenstab, [birthday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthday.md), [helsinki](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/helsinki.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/33.md) ### 34. C-SPAN Social Media Specialist, Tout Investment Analysis (2:06:44–2:13:58) The hosts discover that C-SPAN has hired a "digital social media specialist" and is promoting a platform called "Tout." They find that World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and Vince McMahon are major investors in Tout, leading them to conclude that the political conventions are being treated like professional wrestling. Keywords: [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), tout, [wwe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wwe.md), [vince mcmahon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vince-mcmahon.md), [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md), infographics [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Roger McGuinn Chat Room Incident, Seven-String Guitar (2:13:59–2:17:56) Curry shares an anecdote about legendary guitarist Roger McGuinn entering the No Agenda chat room and being put off by the behavior of the participants. Dvorak mentions McGuinn's invention of the seven-string guitar. The hosts continue to search for information on the "Tout" platform and its C-SPAN connection. Keywords: [roger mcguinn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/roger-mcguinn.md), the byrds, [chat room](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chat-room.md), seven-string guitar, [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/35.md) ### 36. NASA and BBC Erased Moon Landing Tapes (2:17:56–2:23:54) The hosts discuss reports that both NASA and the BBC "erased" or "wiped" their original tapes of the 1969 moon landing. They express skepticism about the ability to "restore" degaussed tapes and mock a recent story about a kid's audio recording being used to fill the BBC's archives. Keywords: [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), [bbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc.md), [moon landing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moon-landing.md), [magnetic tape](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/magnetic-tape.md), degaussing, [apollo 11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apollo-11.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/36.md) ### 37. Thalidomide Scandal, Grunenthal Company Apology (2:23:55–2:26:31) The German pharmaceutical company Grunenthal has issued its first apology to victims of Thalidomide, 50 years after the drug caused thousands of birth defects. The hosts question the timing of the apology and whether it is related to the expiration of statutes of limitations. Keywords: [thalidomide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/thalidomide.md), softenon, grunenthal, morning sickness, [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [apology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apology.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/37.md) ### 38. Haldol Side Effects, Veteran Medication Concerns (2:26:31–2:33:20) The hosts read a long list of side effects for the antipsychotic drug Haldol (Haloperidol), including "worm-like tongue movements" and "seeing everything with a brown tint." They express concern that this drug will be used on the 100,000 veterans targeted by the recent executive order on mental health. Keywords: [haldol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haldol.md), haloperidol, [veterans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veterans.md), [side effects](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/side-effects.md), [nih](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nih.md), psychotic disorders [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/38.md) ### 39. California SB 1172, Gay Conversion Therapy Ban (2:33:20–2:40:04) The California legislature has passed SB 1172, a bill that prohibits mental health providers from engaging in "sexual orientation change efforts" with minors. The hosts discuss the legal definitions in the bill and question the government's intrusion into private therapy practices. Keywords: [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), sb 1172, [jerry brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jerry-brown.md), gay conversion therapy, [mental health](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mental-health.md), [legislation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/legislation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/39.md) ### 40. Angela Merkel in China, Airbus Factory Export (2:40:06–2:43:38) German Chancellor Angela Merkel visited China to sign trade deals and discuss EU government bonds. The hosts highlight the existence of an Airbus factory in China that has already produced 100 planes, criticizing the export of high-tech manufacturing facilities. Keywords: [angela merkel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angela-merkel.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [airbus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus.md), [trade deals](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trade-deals.md), eu bonds, [manufacturing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/manufacturing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/40.md) ### 41. Yosemite Hantavirus Outbreak, Curry Village Narrative (2:43:39–2:45:47) The hosts discuss the hantavirus outbreak at Curry Village in Yosemite National Park. Dvorak suggests the story might be a "hit job" by environmental groups like the Sierra Club to shut down the historic log cabins as part of an "Agenda 21" style land-use restriction. Keywords: [yosemite](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yosemite.md), [hantavirus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hantavirus.md), [curry village](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/curry-village.md), [sierra club](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sierra-club.md), [agenda 21](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/agenda-21.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/41.md) ### 42. Internet Freedom Policy, Haiti Cholera, Afghan Base (2:45:48–2:49:34) Curry covers several news items, including a State Department workshop on "Internet Freedom," the ongoing cholera epidemic in Haiti caused by UN peacekeepers, and the halting of the "green on blue" training program in Afghanistan. He also mentions the construction of a $100 million permanent drone base in Afghanistan. Keywords: [internet freedom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet-freedom.md), [haiti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haiti.md), [cholera](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cholera.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [united nations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-nations.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/42.md) ### 43. White House Beer Recipe, Corn Sugar Controversy (2:49:35–2:56:11) The hosts analyze the recently released White House honey ale recipe. They criticize the use of "malt extract" and "corn sugar," arguing that the recipe is a low-quality "bogus" formula intended to promote the high fructose corn syrup industry under the name "corn sugar." Keywords: [white house](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-house.md), beer recipe, [corn sugar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corn-sugar.md), [high fructose corn syrup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/high-fructose-corn-syrup.md), [lagunitas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lagunitas.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/43.md) ### 44. Show Outro, Sinclair Lewis Recommendation, Sign-off (2:56:12–2:58:24) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak conclude the episode by reiterating their recommendation of Sinclair Lewis's It Can't Happen Here. They remind listeners of the live stream schedule and the "value for value" model before signing off from Austin and Silicon Valley. Keywords: [sinclair lewis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sinclair-lewis.md), [it can't happen here](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/it-can-t-happen-here.md), [atlas shrugged](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/atlas-shrugged.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/440-it-can-t-happen-here/chapter/44.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/439-struggling-masses.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/441-poison-wheat.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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