# SnowJob

> A landmark Supreme Court ruling on marriage equality collides with escalating global tensions as the Obama administration intensifies its pursuit of Edward Snowden across international borders.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 525
- **Published:** 2013-06-27
- **Length:** 2h 59m
- **Topics:** DOMA Ruling, Snowden Leaks, GCHQ Spying, [Regulatory Capture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/regulatory-capture.md), FEMA Gasifier, [Bertha Foundation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bertha-foundation.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob

## About this episode

The United States Supreme Court has struck down Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act, a landmark ruling that forces federal recognition of same-sex marriages originally restricted by the 1996 Bill Clinton-era law. While Edith Windsor secures a victory against a $350,000 tax bill, the decision ignites a fierce debate over whether the judiciary or individual states hold the ultimate authority to define domestic partnerships. This legal shift raises immediate questions about the future of federal benefits and the potential for broader challenges regarding polyamorous and multi-partner household structures.

Secretary of State John Kerry and the Associated Press claim that Al-Qaeda operatives in Yemen are actively altering communication methods following the Edward Snowden leaks, though the lack of subsequent drone strikes suggests these assertions may be exaggerated. In Europe, the GCHQ faces intense scrutiny from German officials for tapping fiber optic cables, while the European Stability Mechanism considers an 8% levy on German bank deposits. Domestically, Senator John McCain and John Bolton demand aggressive diplomatic retaliation against Vladimir Putin for harboring Snowden in a Moscow transit lounge. Meanwhile, the Obama administration continues its record-breaking use of the Espionage Act against whistleblowers like James Hitzelberger, as media figures like David Gregory and Ed Schultz publicly question the legality of investigative journalism.

John Dvorak recalls his early career clashes with a young Dianne Feinstein on a California air pollution board, painting a portrait of regulatory capture that persists in today’s FISA courts. The program also investigates the mysterious Bertha Foundation and its ties to WikiLeaks, the sudden downfall of Paula Deen amidst a pharmaceutical marketing war, and a FEMA-approved DIY wood-burning gasifier for emergency power. The show concludes with a skeptical look at a spinning Egyptian statue in Manchester and a listener tip on how to bypass automated phone menus using strategic profanity.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/transcript.md.

### 1. San Francisco Heat Wave and July 4th Fog (0:00–2:17)

The hosts open the program discussing a heat wave in Northern California and the lack of air conditioning in San Francisco homes. They note the traditional weather pattern where fog rolls in during the July 4th fireworks, obscuring the view for spectators. The conversation transitions into the local atmosphere following recent Supreme Court rulings.

Keywords: [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [july 4th](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/july-4th.md), [fog](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fog.md), [heat wave](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/heat-wave.md), barometric pressure

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Supreme Court Overturns Defense of Marriage Act Section 3 (2:18–8:57)

The United States Supreme Court ruled Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional, affecting federal recognition of same-sex marriages. Originally signed by President Bill Clinton in 1996, the law defined marriage as between one man and one woman for federal purposes. The ruling allows legally married same-sex couples to access federal benefits and file joint taxes, though the hosts question the role of the judiciary in creating law.

Keywords: [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md), [doma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/doma.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [section 3](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/section-3.md), [same-sex marriage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/same-sex-marriage.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Government Involvement in Marriage and Polyamory Benefits (8:59–14:03)

A discussion ensues regarding why the government is involved in licensing marriage at all, suggesting it is primarily a mechanism for doling out benefits like healthcare and tax breaks. The hosts speculate that the legal logic used for same-sex marriage could eventually extend to polyamorous relationships or polygamy. They cite Mormon communities as a historical example of multi-partner households and discuss the corporate-like management of large families.

Keywords: bigamy, polyamory, [mormonism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mormonism.md), tax benefits, [healthcare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/healthcare.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/3.md)

### 4. California Proposition 8 and State Rights Over Marriage (14:03–17:45)

The conversation shifts to the legal battle over California's Proposition 8 and the specific lawsuit involving Edith Windsor, who faced a $350,000 tax bill after her partner's death. While the Supreme Court's ruling on DOMA provides federal relief, the hosts note that 34 states still have prohibitions against same-sex marriage. They argue the core issue is whether states, Congress, or the Supreme Court should have the final authority over marriage definitions.

Keywords: [proposition 8](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/proposition-8.md), [gavin newsom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gavin-newsom.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [states rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/states-rights.md), edwina windsor

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Media Claims of Al-Qaeda Changing Tactics After Snowden Leaks (17:46–19:50)

The Associated Press and Secretary of State John Kerry claim that Al-Qaeda groups in Yemen are changing their operational methods due to information leaked by Edward Snowden. Kerry suggests that Americans may die as a consequence of these leaks because terrorists now know how to protect their communications. The hosts express skepticism, questioning why the government hasn't used drone strikes if they are so aware of Al-Qaeda's specific behavioral changes.

Keywords: [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [yemen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yemen.md), [associated press](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/associated-press.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Global Surveillance Backlash and GCHQ Fiber Optic Tapping (19:51–24:10)

Reports indicate that the British intelligence agency GCHQ has been tapping into fiber optic cables to monitor international traffic, causing friction with European allies. German officials have expressed concern over whether there is a legal basis for spying on friendly nations. The hosts play a clip of British Foreign Secretary William Hague defending the intelligence community, which they remix to highlight the irony of his "protecting freedoms" rhetoric.

Keywords: [gchq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gchq.md), [fiber optics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fiber-optics.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [william hague](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/william-hague.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Unabomber Manifesto and the Negative Impact of Technology (24:10–26:36)

The hosts reflect on the Unabomber manifesto, noting that Ted Kaczynski was a certified genius from Harvard who predicted the negative societal impacts of technology. They argue that the internet has "screwed" society by cheapening art and writing while sucking away time through social media addiction. They observe that despite increased computing power, personal organization has not improved for the average user.

Keywords: [ted kaczynski](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-kaczynski.md), [unabomber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unabomber.md), [harvard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harvard.md), [technology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/technology.md), [internet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Edward Snowden IRC Chat Logs and Corporate Targets (26:36–27:59)

Ars Technica published IRC chat logs from 2006 allegedly belonging to Edward Snowden, where he expressed strong views against CIA leaks. The hosts discuss the possibility that Snowden was a hitman or a deliberate plant to go after corporate entities like Google. They suggest the media is focusing on Snowden's location to distract from the substantive issues of government surveillance.

Keywords: [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [ars technica](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ars-technica.md), irc logs, [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/8.md)

### 9. John McCain and Vladimir Putin on Snowden's Transit Status (28:00–30:26)

Senator John McCain criticizes Russian President Vladimir Putin for allowing Edward Snowden to remain in the transit lounge of a Moscow airport. Putin maintains that because Snowden has not cleared customs, he is technically not in Russia, a move McCain describes as "old Soviet double-speak." The hosts note that the U.S. has become a "laughing stock" in its attempts to extradite the whistleblower.

Keywords: [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [moscow airport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moscow-airport.md), [kgb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kgb.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/9.md)

### 10. John Bolton Advocates Penalizing China and Russia (30:27–33:30)

Former UN Ambassador John Bolton argues that the U.S. should withdraw ambassadors from Beijing and Hong Kong to penalize China for allowing Edward Snowden to leave. Bolton dismisses the lack of an extradition treaty with Russia as irrelevant, suggesting Putin is simply "shearing a pig" for intelligence. He advocates for a more aggressive diplomatic response to force the return of the NSA contractor.

Keywords: [john bolton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-bolton.md), [beijing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/beijing.md), [hong kong](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hong-kong.md), [extradition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/extradition.md), [putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/putin.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Security Clearances and the Vulnerability of System Administrators (33:30–36:14)

With over five million Americans holding security clearances and 1.5 million holding top-secret status, the hosts argue that foreign intelligence agencies likely already have the information Snowden leaked. They highlight the critical role of system administrators (sysadmins) in government programs, including an anecdote about a drone program sysadmin who became physically ill from viewing strike footage. They warn that targeting sysadmins will only make government systems more insecure.

Keywords: [security clearance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security-clearance.md), [sysadmins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sysadmins.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [espionage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/espionage.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Ed Schultz Criticizes Snowden on MSNBC (36:14–40:25)

MSNBC host Ed Schultz labels Edward Snowden a "coward" and a "punk" for not returning to the U.S. to face charges. Schultz states he will "err on the side of the President" and national security over the whistleblower's claims. The hosts mock Schultz's emotional appeal to the September 11th attacks as a justification for modern surveillance programs.

Keywords: [ed schultz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ed-schultz.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [patriotism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriotism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Nelson Mandela Health Watch and Obama Visit (40:26–41:55)

Media outlets are closely monitoring the health of Nelson Mandela in South Africa, with reports suggesting he is being kept on life support until President Obama arrives for a visit. NBC News reported an anecdote from Mandela's daughter, Zinzi, claiming her father smiled when told of Obama's upcoming visit. The hosts characterize the coverage as performative and synchronized with the President's travel schedule.

Keywords: [nelson mandela](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nelson-mandela.md), [south africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-africa.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), zinzi mandela, [nbc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc-news.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Technical Difficulties with USB Audio Equipment (41:57–44:42)

The show experiences a brief interruption as one host struggles with Edifier USB speakers. The host explains the incremental volume control mechanism of the device, which requires repeated clicking rather than holding a button. The segment serves as a brief aside on the frustrations of modern consumer technology interfaces.

Keywords: edifier, usb speakers, [audio engineering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/audio-engineering.md), [troubleshooting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/troubleshooting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/14.md)

### 15. David Gregory Questions Glenn Greenwald on Aiding Snowden (44:43–50:03)

On Meet the Press, host David Gregory asked journalist Glenn Greenwald why he shouldn't be charged with a crime for "aiding and abetting" Edward Snowden. Greenwald responded by accusing the Obama administration of attempting to criminalize investigative journalism. The hosts view Gregory's question as a warning to all journalists and whistleblowers that the government is monitoring their activities.

Keywords: [david gregory](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-gregory.md), [glenn greenwald](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-greenwald.md), [meet the press](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meet-the-press.md), [treason](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/treason.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Prosecution of Whistleblowers Under the Espionage Act (50:04–52:54)

The hosts discuss the Obama administration's aggressive use of the Espionage Act against former government employees, citing the case of James Hitzelberger. They argue that the government maintains a double standard where it demands transparency from citizens but hides its own actions behind claims of national security. They criticize the media for not challenging the assumption that whistleblowers are inherently criminal.

Keywords: [espionage act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/espionage-act.md), hitzelberger, [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [whistleblowers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/whistleblowers.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Producer Donations and Medical Record Privacy (52:55–1:01:44)

During a donor thank-you segment, a physician contributor warns about the government's mandate for Electronic Health Records (EHR). He suggests that the move to digital records is designed to facilitate real-time snooping by the NSA and CIA, recommending that patients find doctors who still use paper charts. Other donors request "karma" for family health issues, including leukemia and strokes.

Keywords: [medicare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medicare.md), [electronic health records](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electronic-health-records.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), paper charts, [leukemia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leukemia.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Ayn Rand Mac and Cheese and Hollywood Agents (1:01:44–1:05:48)

The hosts play a humorous "Ayn Rand Mac and Cheese" audio clip and discuss a donation from a Hollywood talent agency. They debate whether they need agents for bit parts in films and briefly touch on the inefficiency of video podcasts, noting that most users prefer downloading MP3s for consumption during commutes.

Keywords: [ayn rand](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ayn-rand.md), [mac and cheese](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-and-cheese.md), symbio agency, [brooklyn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brooklyn.md), [video podcasts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/video-podcasts.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/18.md)

### 19. No Agenda YouTube Conversions and Texas Meetup (1:05:49–1:10:59)

A new automated system has been established to convert the podcast into YouTube videos immediately upon release, though the hosts express dislike for the "sped-up" playback versions. They also announce a "No Agenda Texas" meetup scheduled for September and mention a new Kindle book titled "Foot on the Shore" written by a show producer.

Keywords: [youtube](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/youtube.md), [rss feed](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rss-feed.md), [kindle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kindle.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [meetup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meetup.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Investigation into the Bertha Foundation and WikiLeaks Funding (1:10:59–1:20:19)

The hosts investigate the Bertha Foundation, which provides legal support for WikiLeaks and Edward Snowden through lawyer Jennifer Robinson. They identify Lara Tabatznik as the founder and CEO, noting the foundation's lack of transparency regarding its financiers. The organization funds various social activism projects and the Ubuntu Education Fund, but its ultimate source of wealth remains obscure.

Keywords: [bertha foundation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bertha-foundation.md), [wikileaks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikileaks.md), jennifer robinson, lara tabatznik, [philanthropy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/philanthropy.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Fitzgibbon Media and Celebrity PR for Activism (1:20:20–1:27:38)

Fitzgibbon Media is identified as the PR firm representing both Julian Assange and Edward Snowden. The firm's client list includes MoveOn.org, Amnesty International, and various celebrity-backed causes like "Artist Action." The hosts explain the "pay-for-play" nature of modern public relations, where celebrities like Paul McCartney and Dave Matthews are recruited to lend credibility to political campaigns.

Keywords: fitzgibbon media, [moveon.org](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moveon-org.md), [paul mccartney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-mccartney.md), [bono](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bono.md), [public relations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/public-relations.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Google Smart Home Demonstration and Wikipedia Tracking (1:27:39–1:30:19)

Google demonstrated new "enhanced search" capabilities in a New York City townhouse, showing how the technology understands real-world entities like Barack Obama and the Eiffel Tower. Meanwhile, Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales is criticized for allegedly tracking editors on the Snowden talk page. The hosts mock the "Smart Home" concept as a way for corporations to collect more metadata on private lives.

Keywords: [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), [smart home](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smart-home.md), [jimmy wales](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jimmy-wales.md), [wikipedia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikipedia.md), [metadata](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metadata.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/22.md)

### 23. FEMA Wood-Burning Gasifier for Emergency Power (1:30:19–1:33:52)

A FEMA brochure describes how to build a wood-burning gasifier to run internal combustion engines and generators during a grid failure. The technology converts wood pellets or charcoal into gas that can power a vehicle or a home generator. The hosts express fascination with the DIY nature of the project and its utility for emergency preparedness.

Keywords: [fema](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fema.md), [gasifier](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gasifier.md), wood pellets, [generator](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/generator.md), [emergency preparedness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emergency-preparedness.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/23.md)

### 24. President Obama's Climate Action Plan Speech (1:33:53–1:41:28)

President Obama delivered a major speech on climate change, asserting that the 12 warmest years in history occurred in the last 15 years. He claimed that 97% of scientists agree that human activity contributes to global warming and called for urgent action. The hosts analyze the "performative" nature of the speech, noting the President's use of his roles as a father and an American to bolster his arguments.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [carbon dioxide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-dioxide.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), [greenhouse gases](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenhouse-gases.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Natural Gas as a Transition Fuel and Nuclear Energy (1:41:29–1:44:30)

The President's climate plan emphasizes natural gas as a "transition fuel" to lower carbon pollution. The hosts discuss the potential for small, modular nuclear reactors but argue that the U.S. regulatory environment makes standardized nuclear power impossible. They contrast the U.S. system with France's standardized nuclear infrastructure, which is more cost-effective.

Keywords: [natural gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/natural-gas.md), [nuclear power](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nuclear-power.md), [nea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nea.md), [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md), [regulatory capture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/regulatory-capture.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Coal Industry Decline and Energy Imports from Mexico (1:44:30–1:49:35)

While the U.S. has a 350-year supply of coal, the Clean Air Act and new regulations are forcing the closure of domestic coal plants. In Texas, electricity is being imported from coal plants in Mexico built by GE, effectively moving the pollution across the border rather than eliminating it. The hosts describe this as a form of "corporatism" that benefits large entities like GE at the expense of domestic energy independence.

Keywords: [coal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/coal.md), [ge](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ge.md), [mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mexico.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [clean air act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clean-air-act.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Public Choice Theory and Regulatory Capture in FISA Courts (1:49:37–1:51:55)

The concept of "regulatory capture" is applied to the FISA court and intelligence oversight committees. The hosts argue that leaders like Dianne Feinstein and Mike Rogers have been captured by the agencies they are supposed to oversee, acting more like spokespeople for the CIA and NSA than independent regulators. This dynamic allows the intelligence community to expand surveillance programs with minimal judicial or legislative pushback.

Keywords: [regulatory capture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/regulatory-capture.md), [fisa court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa-court.md), [patriot act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriot-act.md), [dianne feinstein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dianne-feinstein.md), [mike rogers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-rogers.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Customer Service Tip for Bypassing Automated Voice Systems (1:51:57–1:55:05)

A listener shares a tip for bypassing automated phone menus: using profanity. Because many commercial voice systems are programmed to detect "agitated" callers to prevent frustration, swearing at the machine often triggers an immediate transfer to a human representative. The hosts encourage listeners to test this "agitation" algorithm on various corporate support lines.

Keywords: [microsoft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/microsoft.md), [voice recognition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voice-recognition.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [customer service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/customer-service.md), life hack

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Global Donor Recognition and Birthday Shout-outs (1:55:08–2:02:04)

The hosts read a list of international donations from countries including Brunei and Germany. They acknowledge various birthdays, including a tribute to George Orwell, who would have been 110 years old. They also remind listeners to check their PayPal subscriptions, as the service frequently cancels recurring donations without notice.

Keywords: [brunei](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brunei.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [george orwell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-orwell.md), [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), [subscriptions](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/subscriptions.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Howard Stern's Stance on Government Surveillance (2:02:06–2:06:32)

Radio host Howard Stern expressed support for government surveillance programs, arguing that they are necessary to foil terror plots. Stern stated he believes the government's claims about stopping 50 attacks and is willing to trade some privacy for safety. The hosts criticize Stern, suggesting his wealth has disconnected him from the concerns of average citizens regarding civil liberties.

Keywords: [howard stern](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/howard-stern.md), [sirius xm](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sirius-xm.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md), [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Media Defamation of Ecuador and Economic Hitmen (2:06:33–2:13:17)

U.S. media outlets have begun a campaign to defame Ecuador as a hub for money laundering and drug processing after the country considered granting asylum to Edward Snowden. The hosts reference the book "Confessions of an Economic Hitman," noting that Ecuador has long been a target for U.S. exploitation. They also mock reporters who flew to Cuba on an Aeroflot flight expecting to find Snowden, only to find an empty seat.

Keywords: [ecuador](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ecuador.md), [aeroflot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aeroflot.md), [money laundering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/money-laundering.md), [cocaine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cocaine.md), [economic hitman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-hitman.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/31.md)

### 32. John Dvorak's Coca Leaf Anecdote in the Andes (2:13:19–2:21:15)

John Dvorak recounts a trip to the Andes mountains where he used coca leaves to combat altitude sickness. While younger American travelers refused the leaves due to their association with cocaine, Dvorak found them essential for maintaining energy at high altitudes. He describes "breezing past" exhausted millennials on a hike because he utilized the local traditional remedy.

Keywords: [andes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andes.md), [coca leaves](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/coca-leaves.md), [altitude sickness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/altitude-sickness.md), novica, [millennials](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/millennials.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer Anecdotes (2:21:17–2:24:25)

Dvorak shares historical anecdotes from his time working with Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer on a California air pollution board. He describes Feinstein as a "dummy" who once ordered a security chain removed from a file room because she mistakenly thought it was being used to lock women inside. He also makes disparaging remarks about Boxer's personal conduct during her early career.

Keywords: [dianne feinstein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dianne-feinstein.md), [barbara boxer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barbara-boxer.md), [air pollution district](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-pollution-district.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [sexism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sexism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/33.md)

### 34. Intelligence Committee Oversight and Capture Theory (2:24:25–2:29:06)

The hosts return to the failure of the House and Senate Intelligence Committees to provide meaningful oversight. They argue that Mike Rogers and Dianne Feinstein have been "captured" by the intelligence community, often repeating classified gossip as fact to justify surveillance. They suggest these leaders should be replaced by individuals who are not enamored with the "spy" culture.

Keywords: [mike rogers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-rogers.md), [dianne feinstein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dianne-feinstein.md), [fisa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa.md), [oversight](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oversight.md), [intelligence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intelligence.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/34.md)

### 35. European Stability Mechanism and German Bank Levies (2:29:07–2:34:36)

The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) may soon require an 8% levy on German bank deposits to fund future bailouts. Meanwhile, EU President Herman Van Rompuy is pushing for an "automatic exchange of information" regarding all forms of income, including capital gains and royalties, by 2015. The hosts characterize this as a total clampdown on financial privacy in Europe to eliminate the "black market" of cash.

Keywords: [esm](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/esm.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), bundesbank, [tax avoidance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-avoidance.md), [herman van rompuy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/herman-van-rompuy.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/35.md)

### 36. Fox News Rhetoric and Partisan Name-Calling (2:34:36–2:37:14)

The hosts play a clip from Fox News featuring aggressive partisan name-calling and finger-pointing. They express exhaustion with the low quality of mainstream media debate, which they argue has replaced reason with shouting. The segment highlights the "slave" status of the public in the face of government spying and media distraction.

Keywords: [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), [michelle malkin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michelle-malkin.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), partisan media, [rhetoric](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rhetoric.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/36.md)

### 37. ShotSpotter Technology and the Boston Bombing (2:37:14–2:41:21)

ShotSpotter is a gunfire detection system that uses acoustic triangulation to pinpoint shooting incidents in major cities like Oakland and San Francisco. The hosts question why ShotSpotter data from the Boston Bombing has not been released to clarify the timeline of the shootout between police and the Tsarnaev brothers. They suggest the system is capable of much broader audio surveillance than is publicly admitted.

Keywords: [shotspotter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shotspotter.md), [boston bombing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boston-bombing.md), [triangulation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/triangulation.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [oakland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oakland.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/37.md)

### 38. Paula Deen Controversy and Diabetes Drug Marketing Wars (2:41:22–2:46:14)

The hosts link the sudden downfall of celebrity chef Paula Deen to a marketing war between pharmaceutical giants Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. Deen was the spokesperson for the diabetes drug Victoza, which is marketed heavily to African American communities. They suggest that Deen's past use of racial slurs was weaponized by competitors to destroy her effectiveness as a brand ambassador during a critical period for diabetes drug competition.

Keywords: [paula deen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paula-deen.md), victoza, [novo nordisk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/novo-nordisk.md), [eli lilly](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eli-lilly.md), [diabetes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diabetes.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/38.md)

### 39. Marrakesh Treaty for the Visually Impaired (2:46:16–2:52:59)

A diplomatic conference in Marrakesh resulted in a treaty to facilitate access to published works for the visually impaired. Stevie Wonder supported the initiative, which addresses the fact that 95% of books are not available in accessible formats due to publisher fears of copyright infringement. The hosts argue that the podcast itself serves as a vital information source for the "print challenged" community.

Keywords: marrakesh, [stevie wonder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stevie-wonder.md), [copyright](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/copyright.md), [drm](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drm.md), [blind](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blind.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/39.md)

### 40. Spinning Egyptian Statue at Manchester Museum (2:53:04–2:55:40)

A 4,000-year-old Egyptian statue at the Manchester Museum was filmed "spinning" in its display case via time-lapse footage. While the museum curator suggested spiritual causes, the hosts dismiss it as a "shameless" marketing stunt designed to draw visitors. They argue that simple vibrations from foot traffic or manual manipulation between frames are the likely logical explanations.

Keywords: manchester museum, [egypt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/egypt.md), [statue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/statue.md), time-lapse, [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/40.md)

### 41. Bureau of Intelligence and Research and Show Outro (2:55:41–2:59:17)

The hosts conclude the show by teasing a future investigation into the State Department's Bureau of Intelligence and Research (INR). They also mention upcoming coverage of Texas Senate Bill 5 regarding abortion legislation. The program ends with a final reminder of the "protect their freedoms" remix and a call for listener support to keep the show independent.

Keywords: inr, [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), phillip goldberg, [texas senate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas-senate.md), [drone star state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drone-star-state.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/525-snowjob/chapter/41.md)

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