# Resume Normal Activity! > A deep dive into the intersection of Hollywood propaganda, pharmaceutical subsidies under the BRAIN Initiative, and the erosion of medical privacy through new state gun laws. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 501 - **Published:** 2013-04-04 - **Length:** 2h 46m - **Topics:** [Olympus Has Fallen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/olympus-has-fallen.md), [BRAIN Initiative](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brain-initiative.md), Chemonics, [Gun Control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gun-control.md), IRS Targeting, Bitcoin Volatility, H7N9 Bird Flu - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity ## About this episode The Pentagon and major media outlets are coordinating a propaganda push through Hollywood blockbusters like Olympus Has Fallen to justify military posturing against North Korea. Producer Avi Lerner and Millennium Pictures are identified as key drivers of this narrative, while Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel faces scrutiny for bizarre vocalizations and a perceived lack of competence during recent hearings. The strategic use of North Korea as a buffer zone for China and Russia remains the unspoken reality behind the bellicose rhetoric emanating from the State Department. President Obama’s announcement of a $100 million BRAIN Initiative on World Autism Awareness Day serves as a massive subsidy for the pharmaceutical industry and IBM’s Watson medical systems. In the domestic sphere, Captain Mark Kelly and Gabby Giffords are accused of staging media events to push for universal background checks and medical privacy waivers in Connecticut. Meanwhile, the IRS is intensifying enforcement against small businesses through third-party reporting, and the Netherlands faces a debt crisis where ING Bank technical glitches are viewed as a dry run for a cashless society and wealth seizure. This episode features a formal knighting ceremony for Todd Brink and Scott Olsen as they join the No Agenda Roundtable. Adam Curry explores cinematic predictive programming in Cloud Atlas regarding the San Onofre nuclear plant, while John C. Dvorak questions the rebranding of pork chops as Porterhouse cuts by the National Pork Board. The show concludes with a look at the Chechnya skyscraper fire and its implications for 9/11 structural collapse theories. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/transcript.md. ### 1. Rain Sticks, Texas Weather, and Sir Gitmo Slave (0:00–2:32) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the show discussing heavy rainfall in Austin, Texas, and Northern Silicon Valley, jokingly attributing the weather to their use of rain sticks. They note that Lake Travis is receiving much-needed runoff despite media narratives about permanent drought. The hosts also send well-wishes and "karma" to community member Sir Gitmo Slave, who was recently hospitalized. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [rain sticks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rain-sticks.md), [lake travis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lake-travis.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md), sir gitmo slave [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Media Movie Tie-ins, Robert Redford, and George Stephanopoulos (2:33–4:53) The discussion explores the trend of major news networks using segments to promote Hollywood films, specifically citing Robert Redford's appearance on Good Morning America. Redford's interaction with George Stephanopoulos is highlighted as an example of the blurred lines between political operatives and news anchors. The hosts suggest that news directors' personal connections to political advisors influence coverage. Keywords: [robert redford](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robert-redford.md), [george stephanopoulos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-stephanopoulos.md), [abc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abc-news.md), [disney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/disney.md), [good morning america](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/good-morning-america.md), [movie promotion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/movie-promotion.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Olympus Has Fallen, North Korea, and Avi Lerner (4:53–7:06) The film Olympus Has Fallen is analyzed as a propaganda tool that mirrors real-world tensions with North Korea. Producer Avi Lerner and Millennium Pictures are identified as key players, with the hosts noting Lerner's history as a film distributor in Israel and his financial ties to Viacom and Blockbuster. Matt Lauer's interview with Gerard Butler is used to illustrate how movie publicity departments coordinate with news cycles. Keywords: [olympus has fallen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/olympus-has-fallen.md), [gerard butler](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gerard-butler.md), [matt lauer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/matt-lauer.md), avi lerner, millennium pictures, [viacom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/viacom.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Dennis Rodman, Vice Media, and Viacom Corporate Ties (7:06–10:43) Dennis Rodman's visit to North Korea is linked to Vice Media, which the hosts reveal is significantly funded or owned by Viacom. They discuss the involvement of the Harlem Globetrotters, a Disney-owned entity, in the diplomatic trip. The segment concludes with an anecdote about meeting Viacom chairman Sumner Redstone in South Korea. Keywords: [dennis rodman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dennis-rodman.md), [vice media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vice-media.md), [viacom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/viacom.md), [harlem globetrotters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harlem-globetrotters.md), [disney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/disney.md), [sumner redstone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sumner-redstone.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Chuck Hagel, Secretary of Defense, and Strange Audio (10:44–13:56) Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel is criticized for his public speaking performance and perceived lack of competence. The hosts play a specific audio clip from a hearing where Hagel makes an unusual, high-pitched squeaking sound. They debate whether the audio was manipulated, concluding it is a genuine, bizarre vocalization from the Secretary. Keywords: [chuck hagel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chuck-hagel.md), [department of defense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-defense.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [secretary of defense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secretary-of-defense.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/5.md) ### 6. North Korea Preemptive Strike, Press Briefings, and Rubicon (13:58–17:10) A Pentagon press briefing featuring George Little addresses the possibility of a preemptive strike against North Korea. The hosts criticize the official stance on "peace and stability" as disingenuous given the 60-year military alliance with South Korea. They also reference the television series Rubicon as a realistic depiction of how intelligence agencies use maps and geopolitical context. Keywords: [north korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-korea.md), george little, [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [south korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-korea.md), [amazon prime](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon-prime.md), [rubicon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rubicon.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Geopolitical Buffer Zones, BBC News, and Nuclear Facilities (17:10–19:37) The strategic importance of North Korea as a buffer zone for China and Russia against American influence in Japan and South Korea is discussed. The hosts critique a BBC News report regarding the restart of nuclear facilities at Youngbyon, arguing that the media relies on "official" claims without visual evidence or verified sources. Keywords: [bbc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc-news.md), [vladivostok](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladivostok.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), youngbyon, [nuclear reactor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nuclear-reactor.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/7.md) ### 8. CIA Media Infiltration, Family of Secrets, and Operation Mockingbird (19:38–23:56) The discussion centers on the historical and ongoing infiltration of mainstream media by the CIA, referencing the book Family of Secrets. The hosts claim that many military pundits and journalists, including Bob Woodward, have intelligence backgrounds and serve as conduits for agency-written narratives. They describe a process where the agency places stories in foreign papers to have them "laundered" back into American news as fact. Keywords: [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [gina smith](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gina-smith.md), [bob woodward](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-woodward.md), [family of secrets](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/family-of-secrets.md), [langley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/langley.md), [covert action](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/covert-action.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Public Logic, Global Warming Hoax, and Al Roker (23:57–26:32) A segment on the NBC Today show featuring Al Roker is criticized for mocking Americans who believe global warming is a hoax. Roker's use of Superstorm Sandy as definitive proof of climate change is dismissed by the hosts as unscientific. They argue that the public uses logic to question mainstream narratives, which the media then labels as "conspiracy theories." Keywords: [al roker](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-roker.md), [nbc today](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc-today.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), [superstorm sandy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/superstorm-sandy.md), [conspiracy theories](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/conspiracy-theories.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Show Logistics, Episode 500 Art, and Newsletter (26:33–28:12) The hosts celebrate reaching episode 501 and discuss the artwork submitted by the community for the milestone. They clarify that a logo used in the newsletter was a variation of the NASCAR/Daytona 500 logo. Listeners are encouraged to visit the No Agenda Art Generator and subscribe to the show's newsletter. Keywords: [episode 500](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/episode-500.md), [thorin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/thorin.md), [indy 500](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/indy-500.md), [nascar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nascar.md), [no agenda art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-art.md), [newsletter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newsletter.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Executive Producer Credits, Donations, and Karma (28:12–37:08) The hosts read a list of high-tier donors and executive producers, granting "karma" and new titles within the show's peerage system. They discuss technical issues with PayPal rejecting certain debit cards and thank contributors from various locations, including Russia, the Netherlands, and California. Specific mentions include Todd Brink's knighthood and David Foley's "de-douching" request. Keywords: todd brink, [david foley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-foley.md), [janice kang](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/janice-kang.md), [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), [challenge coins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/challenge-coins.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Media Buyers, The Highlander Yacht, and Drudge Report (37:08–39:22) An aside explores the world of corporate advertising and the lifestyle of young media buyers in New York. The hosts describe lavish trips on the Forbes yacht, The Highlander, used to court advertisers who often don't read the publications they buy space in. They also note a Drudge Report headline featuring mac and cheese, suggesting the site's editors listen to the podcast. Keywords: [media buyers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-buyers.md), forbes magazine, [the highlander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-highlander.md), [drudge report](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drudge-report.md), [mac and cheese](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-and-cheese.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Donation Jingle, Hot Pockets, and Mac and Cheese Delivery (39:22–42:36) A personal anecdote describes the arrival of a bulk shipment of mac and cheese at the Curry household, which was mistaken for a makeup delivery by a neighbor. The hosts also mention new "Hot Pockets Mac & Cheese" products and remind listeners of the various ways to donate to the show via Dvorak.org or NoAgendaShow.com. Keywords: [hot pockets](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hot-pockets.md), [mac and cheese](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-and-cheese.md), [mickey curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mickey-curry.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), donation button [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Hope for Haiti, Reese Witherspoon, and Aid Transparency (42:37–45:16) The hosts revisit the 2010 Haiti earthquake relief efforts, playing a clip of Reese Witherspoon taking a donation call to illustrate the "insincerity" of celebrity telethons. They cite a report from the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR) that criticizes the lack of transparency in how billions of dollars in US aid to Haiti were actually spent. Keywords: [reese WITHERSPOON](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reese-witherspoon.md), [hope for haiti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hope-for-haiti.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), center for economic and policy research, haiti aid [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Chemonics International, USAID, and Illuminati Logos (45:16–50:02) Chemonics International is identified as a massive for-profit contractor for USAID that manages development projects in conflict zones. The hosts criticize the company's performance in Haiti and examine its corporate logo, which they describe as having "Illuminati" or "New World Order" symbolism. They note the company's leadership has deep ties to the US government and the Clinton administration. Keywords: chemonics, [usaid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usaid.md), susie mudge, [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), iso 9001, [illuminati](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/illuminati.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/15.md) ### 16. NGO Culture, For-Profit Philanthropy, and Taxpayer Funding (50:03–53:29) The discussion critiques the "NGO culture" where for-profit companies like Chemonics receive vast sums of taxpayer money under the guise of international aid. The hosts argue that these organizations often prioritize high executive salaries and administrative paperwork over actual humanitarian results. They express frustration with the "hoity-toity" nature of modern philanthropy. Keywords: [ngo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ngo.md), [usaid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usaid.md), susie mudge, brightcove, [philanthropy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/philanthropy.md), tax dollars [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Dov Zakheim, Project for the New American Century, and Cholera (53:30–56:15) Dov Zakheim, a former Pentagon official and member of the Project for the New American Century (PNAC), is linked to the board of Chemonics. The hosts discuss his history as a "fraud chief" and his ties to both neoliberal and neoconservative circles. They contrast the wealth of these contractors with the cholera outbreak in Haiti caused by UN peacekeepers. Keywords: dov zakheim, project for the new american century, [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [booz allen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/booz-allen.md), [cholera](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cholera.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Obama Brain Initiative, World Autism Awareness Day, and Pharma (56:15–59:46) President Obama's announcement of a $100 million initiative to map the human brain is analyzed as a boon for the pharmaceutical and insurance industries. The hosts note the timing of the announcement on World Autism Awareness Day and suggest the funding is a "starter crumb" for long-term corporate research. They argue the project is more about prescribing drugs than scientific discovery. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [brain initiative](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brain-initiative.md), [autism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/autism.md), [pharmaceutical industry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pharmaceutical-industry.md), [affordable care act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/affordable-care-act.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Prosthetic Limbs, Bioethics, and Prescribing Drugs (59:47–1:03:22) The hosts mock President Obama's rhetoric regarding the BRAIN Initiative, specifically his pronunciation of "prosthetic" and his claims about curing Parkinson's and epilepsy. They express skepticism over the "bioethics commission" and the partnership with the private sector, asserting that the ultimate goal is to expand the market for psychiatric medications. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), prosthetic limbs, [bioethics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bioethics.md), [cdc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cdc.md), [alzheimer's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alzheimer-s.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/19.md) ### 20. IBM Watson, ADHD Diagnosis, and Chuck Hagel's Rhetoric (1:03:23–1:07:29) The use of IBM's Watson computer in hospitals is discussed as a fulfillment of past predictions regarding medical expert systems. The hosts then pivot to a New York Times report on the rising rates of ADHD diagnoses in American children. They also highlight Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel's sudden use of the word "bellicose" to describe North Korea, suggesting it is a coordinated talking point. Keywords: [ibm watson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ibm-watson.md), [adhd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adhd.md), [cdc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cdc.md), [chuck hagel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chuck-hagel.md), [bellicose](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bellicose.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Common Sense Laws, Gun Control, and Constitutional Debate (1:07:30–1:13:11) President Obama's use of the phrase "common sense laws" to describe gun control measures is analyzed as a linguistic tactic to bypass constitutional arguments. The hosts argue that the administration is attempting to frame opposition to background checks as "crazy talk" while ignoring the actual constraints placed on government by the founders. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [common sense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/common-sense.md), [gun control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gun-control.md), [second amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/second-amendment.md), [aurora](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aurora.md), [newtown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newtown.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Rural Iowa vs. Urban Chicago, Gun Ownership Logic (1:13:12–1:15:03) The hosts critique a story told by President Obama regarding his wife's visit to rural Iowa, where she supposedly understood why farmers would want guns for protection. They point out the logical inconsistency in the President's stance, questioning why self-defense is considered valid in Iowa but not in high-crime areas of urban Chicago. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [michelle obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michelle-obama.md), [iowa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iowa.md), [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md), gun protection [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Mark Kelly, Gabby Giffords, and Background Check Staging (1:15:03–1:20:35) Captain Mark Kelly and his wife, former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, are criticized for their roles as activists for gun control. The hosts describe a televised segment where Kelly buys a gun to demonstrate the ease of the process as "staged" and "bad acting." They argue that Kelly is using his wife's injury to push a political agenda involving universal background checks. Keywords: [mark kelly](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-kelly.md), [gabby giffords](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gabby-giffords.md), [gun control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gun-control.md), [background checks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/background-checks.md), [nra](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nra.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Medical Records, Privacy Waivers, and Connecticut Gun Laws (1:20:35–1:24:18) The discussion explores how new gun laws in states like Connecticut require citizens to sign waivers of medical privacy to obtain "eligibility certificates" for firearms or ammunition. The hosts argue that the NRA and the government are collaborating to integrate mental health records into the NICS background check system, which they believe will discourage people from seeking psychiatric help. Keywords: [medical privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medical-privacy.md), [connecticut](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/connecticut.md), eligibility certificate, [nics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nics.md), [jared loughner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jared-loughner.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Diana DeGette, Magazine Clips, and IRS Targeting (1:24:19–1:28:04) Congresswoman Diana DeGette is mocked for her comments suggesting that banning high-capacity magazines would work because the "bullets will have been shot" and the magazines cannot be reused. The hosts transition to a discussion about the IRS targeting small businesses and independent contractors, citing a Time Magazine article about the "tax gap" and under-reported income. Keywords: [diana degette](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diana-degette.md), [high-capacity magazines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/high-capacity-magazines.md), [colorado](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/colorado.md), [irs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/irs.md), [small business](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/small-business.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/25.md) ### 26. IRS Enforcement, Debt Cancellation, and Challenge Coins (1:28:06–1:32:41) The hosts discuss IRS enforcement strategies, including the use of third-party reporting (W-2s and 1099s) to ensure compliance. They warn listeners about the tax implications of debt cancellation on mortgages and the potential for the IRS to scrutinize small business bank accounts. A humorous aside mentions the possibility of the IRS auditing "challenge coins" and mac and cheese donations. Keywords: [irs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/irs.md), w-2, [1099](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/1099.md), [debt cancellation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/debt-cancellation.md), [mortgage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mortgage.md), [challenge coins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/challenge-coins.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Listener Birthdays, Ham Radio, and St Kilda Hookers (1:32:43–1:43:19) A series of listener notes and donations are read, including a birthday wish for a friend of Ashley Hurst in Seattle. The hosts discuss ham radio call signs and a donation from a listener in Australia who compares the cost of the show to "St Kilda hookers." Technical difficulties with an Excel spreadsheet lead to a discussion about the show's production process and the need for continued financial support. Keywords: ashley hurst, [ham radio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ham-radio.md), [bitcoin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bitcoin.md), st kilda, [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [open office](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/open-office.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Knighting Ceremony, Peerage Rules, and Baron of Silicon Valley (1:43:20–1:46:42) The hosts conduct a formal knighting ceremony for Todd Brink and Scott Olsen, welcoming them to the No Agenda Roundtable. David Foley is named the Baron of Silicon Valley, and Janice Kang is promoted to Baronet. They joke about creating an "e-book" to define the complex rules of the show's peerage system. Keywords: [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), todd brink, scott olsen, [david foley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-foley.md), [janice kang](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/janice-kang.md), [peerage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peerage.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/28.md) ### 29. San Onofre Nuclear Plant, Cloud Atlas, and Matrix Clues (1:46:43–1:50:10) Adam Curry presents a "second half of the show" theory involving the movie Cloud Atlas and the San Onofre nuclear plant in California. He suggests that the film contains clues about a potential "stunt" or event at the plant, similar to the Fukushima disaster. He also references a 9/11 expiration date on Neo's passport in The Matrix as evidence of cinematic predictive programming. Keywords: san onofre, cloud atlas, [the matrix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-matrix.md), [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md), [nuclear energy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nuclear-energy.md), [fukushima](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fukushima.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Radiation and Public Health Project, Robert Alvarez, and Hypothyroidism (1:50:11–1:54:35) A report from the Radiation and Public Health Project claiming that Fukushima radiation caused hypothyroidism in West Coast infants is scrutinized. The hosts identify board member Robert Alvarez as a former Clinton administration official with a history of anti-nuclear activism. They argue the report is biased and designed to extort the nuclear industry rather than provide objective health data. Keywords: robert alvarez, [fukushima](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fukushima.md), [hypothyroidism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hypothyroidism.md), [radiation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radiation.md), [west coast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/west-coast.md), [hawaii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hawaii.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Shale Gas Hype, Bitcoin Volatility, and Finviz (1:54:36–1:59:33) The "shale gas boom" in America is questioned, with the hosts suggesting that fracking has not delivered the 100-year energy independence promised by the government. They also discuss the extreme volatility of Bitcoin, speculating that central banks are now "playing in the game" to destabilize the cryptocurrency. The financial website Finviz is recommended for tracking market data. Keywords: [shale gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shale-gas.md), [fracking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fracking.md), [bitcoin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bitcoin.md), [central banks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/central-banks.md), [gold](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gold.md), finviz [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Chapel Hill Giant Voice, Angela Merkel, and Paparazzi (1:59:34–2:02:49) The hosts play a recording of the "Giant Voice" emergency broadcast system from a military base, which they describe as a glimpse into a dystopian future. They also share a link to a Portuguese website featuring paparazzi photos of German Chancellor Angela Merkel on vacation, noting her anger over the privacy intrusion. Keywords: [chapel hill](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chapel-hill.md), [giant voice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/giant-voice.md), [angela merkel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angela-merkel.md), [portugal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/portugal.md), [paparazzi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paparazzi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Australia Royal Commission, Child Sex Abuse, and Institutional Failure (2:02:50–2:07:47) A massive Royal Commission in Australia is investigating institutional child sex abuse, with estimates of up to 100,000 potential victims. The hosts discuss how the investigation has expanded beyond the Catholic Church to include sports clubs, schools, and detention centers. They compare the situation to the Penn State scandal and suggest that "elites" in various institutions protect each other. Keywords: [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [julia gillard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julia-gillard.md), [royal commission](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/royal-commission.md), child sex abuse, [catholic church](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/catholic-church.md), [penn state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/penn-state.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Rewards for Justice, Joseph Kony, and International Courts (2:07:49–2:12:51) The State Department's "Rewards for Justice" program has been expanded to offer $5 million for information leading to the arrest of foreign nationals accused of war crimes. While Joseph Kony is the public face of the program, the hosts argue the new legislation is actually designed to target individuals in Syria and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They express concern over the use of "mixed or hybrid" international courts. Keywords: [rewards for justice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rewards-for-justice.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [joseph kony](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joseph-kony.md), lra, [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/34.md) ### 35. H7N9 Bird Flu, Jim Rogers, and Agricultural Disaster (2:12:51–2:15:17) A new strain of bird flu, H7N9, has emerged in Shanghai, China, resulting in several deaths. The hosts play a clip of investor Jim Rogers warning about a global agricultural disaster due to low inventories and an aging farmer population. Rogers predicts that food prices will skyrocket this decade as production fails to meet consumption. Keywords: [h7n9](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/h7n9.md), [bird flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bird-flu.md), [shanghai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shanghai.md), [jim rogers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jim-rogers.md), [agriculture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/agriculture.md), [food prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/food-prices.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/35.md) ### 36. Chechnya Skyscraper Fire, 9/11 Comparisons (2:15:18–2:16:37) A luxury skyscraper in Chechnya caught fire and burned completely, which the hosts use to revisit debates about the collapse of the World Trade Center buildings on 9/11. They mock the official narrative of fire-induced collapses, noting that the Chechen building did not fall into its own footprint despite the extensive blaze. Keywords: [chechnya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chechnya.md), skyscraper, [fire](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fire.md), [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md), [controlled demolition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/controlled-demolition.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/36.md) ### 37. Conrad Black, Prison Smuggling, and Mail Fraud (2:16:38–2:21:44) Former media mogul Conrad Black, recently released from a US prison, discusses the "dehumanizing" nature of the American justice system. Black claims that contraband in prisons is smuggled in by corrupt guards rather than visitors, making glass partitions in visiting rooms unnecessary. The hosts recount Black's conviction for mail fraud and his ties to Chicago business interests. Keywords: [conrad black](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/conrad-black.md), [toronto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toronto.md), [prison reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prison-reform.md), [smuggling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smuggling.md), [mail fraud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mail-fraud.md), [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/37.md) ### 38. Civilian National Security Force, Secret Service, and Epi Intelligence (2:21:45–2:27:53) The hosts examine the creation of a "Ready Reserve Corps" under the Affordable Care Act, which they link to President Obama's earlier call for a civilian national security force. They discuss new federal frameworks that could allow Secret Service agents to arrest local sheriffs who refuse to enforce federal laws. The segment also highlights the "Epidemiological Intelligence Service" within the CDC. Keywords: [secret service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secret-service.md), [affordable care act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/affordable-care-act.md), [cdc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cdc.md), ready reserve corps, sheriffs, [epidemiology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/epidemiology.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/38.md) ### 39. National Service, Mika Brzezinski, and The Draft (2:27:54–2:31:16) MSNBC's Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough are criticized for supporting the idea of mandatory national service for young adults. The hosts argue that "giving back" is already accomplished through high taxes and that mandatory service is a form of time-taxation. They suggest the ultimate goal is to bring back the military draft to support ongoing foreign wars. Keywords: [mika brzezinski](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mika-brzezinski.md), [morning joe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/morning-joe.md), [national service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-service.md), the draft, [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/39.md) ### 40. Netherlands Economic Crisis, Cashless Society, and ING Bank (2:31:16–2:34:59) The Netherlands is facing a severe economic crisis with consumer debt reaching 250% of available income. The hosts report on technical glitches at ING Bank that left customers with zero balances and unable to use debit cards at supermarkets. They warn that this may be a "dry run" for a cashless society where the government can easily seize a percentage of private wealth. Keywords: [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [ing bank](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ing-bank.md), [cyprus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cyprus.md), [cashless society](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cashless-society.md), consumer debt [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/40.md) ### 41. Revolution TV Series, NCAA Final Four, and Detroit Vibes (2:34:59–2:39:44) A clip from the TV show Revolution mentions a "Governor Affleck" in California, which the hosts find amusing. They then pivot to the NCAA Final Four basketball tournament, predicting that the University of Michigan will win the championship. They argue that a Michigan victory is "needed" to provide good vibes for the city of Detroit, which is currently under the control of emergency bankers. Keywords: [revolution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/revolution.md), [ncaa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ncaa.md), [final four](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/final-four.md), [michigan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michigan.md), [louisville](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/louisville.md), [detroit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/detroit.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/41.md) ### 42. Meat Industry Rebranding, Pork Chops, and SE Cupp (2:39:46–2:42:58) The National Pork Board and the Beef Checkoff program are rebranding cheaper cuts of meat with more prestigious names, such as turning pork chops into "Porterhouse chops" and "Ribeye chops." The hosts also briefly mention a C-SPAN interview featuring MSNBC's SE Cupp and a "Millennial" guest who speaks about the "interdependent global world." Keywords: national pork board, beef checkoff, porterhouse chop, se cupp, [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/42.md) ### 43. Millennial Viewpoints, Outro, and Sunday Show Preview (2:42:58–2:46:32) The show concludes with a critique of Millennial "globalist" rhetoric and a reminder of John C. Dvorak's upcoming birthday. The hosts sign off from their respective locations in Austin and Silicon Valley, promising more coverage of "Euroland" and the global economy on the following Sunday episode. Keywords: [millennials](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/millennials.md), global generation, [world war ii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-war-ii.md), [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/501-resume-normal-activity/chapter/43.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/500-codeword-austin.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/502-nuevo-orden-mundial.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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