# Gay Marriage > Political maneuvering meets economic reality as the hosts dissect the California marriage debate and the suspicious alignment of corporate media with presidential fundraising. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 53 - **Published:** 2008-10-25 - **Length:** 1h 38m - **Topics:** [Proposition 8](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/proposition-8.md), [Sequoia Capital](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sequoia-capital.md), [Oil Prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-prices.md), [Campaign Finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance.md), [Aeroflot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aeroflot.md), Google Stock, [Federal Reserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-reserve.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage ## About this episode Barack Obama and Joe Biden face scrutiny over their public opposition to gay marriage as Proposition 8 looms in California. John C. Dvorak and Adam Curry analyze the legal distinction between religious institutions and civil contracts, arguing that the current political stances of the Democratic ticket are calculated maneuvers rather than genuine convictions. The hosts explore the practicalities of civil unions, the complexities of interstate marriage laws, and the historical precedent of green card marriages for immigration purposes. Economic instability dominates the landscape as Sequoia Capital issues a dire "RIP Good Times" warning to Silicon Valley startups while the Financial Times struggles with inaccurate reporting. General Electric and MSNBC are accused of aligning with the Obama campaign to protect advertising revenues from potential campaign finance reform. Meanwhile, John C. Dvorak reveals his retirement strategy of betting against oil prices via DTO as crude drops toward $60, and Adam Curry criticizes the Federal Reserve for manipulating the money supply in a manner comparable to diluting milk with bovine growth hormones. Technical glitches and high-society dinners provide a lighter contrast to the looming financial collapse. John C. Dvorak recounts a horizontal tasting of overpriced 2002 California vintages at the residence of Larry Ellison, where guests were required to remove their shoes in a lobby resembling a Four Seasons hotel. Adam Curry shares the mechanical realities of boiling eggs at high altitude and the discomfort of being interrogated by immigration officials during his marriage to Patricia Paay. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/transcript.md. ### 1. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak, Router IP Address Conflicts (0:01–1:36) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the program from their respective locations in the West Coast and Silicon Valley North. Curry describes troubleshooting a technical issue where his router became confused by multiple devices, including an iMac and a MacBook Pro. He concludes that conflicting IP addresses, likely triggered by his phone, were causing the disconnects experienced during the previous week's recording. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [router](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/router.md), [ip address](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ip-address.md), [macbook pro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/macbook-pro.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/1.md) ### 2. NetSuite 10th Anniversary, Comcast Connectivity Issues (1:38–3:20) John C. Dvorak recounts attending a 10th-anniversary party for NetSuite, a company he describes as "SAP in the clouds" for small to medium enterprises. The conversation shifts to Dvorak's persistent bandwidth issues on Comcast, noting the irony that their connection is often better when Curry is in England. Dvorak mentions his intention to have Comcast monitor his five-megabit upload stream to diagnose the warbling audio quality. Keywords: netsuite, [sap](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sap.md), [cloud computing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cloud-computing.md), [comcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/comcast.md), [bandwidth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bandwidth.md), [enterprise software](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/enterprise-software.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Tom Perkins' Automated Sailing Ship, Larry Ellison's House (3:21–5:01) Dvorak describes seeing Tom Perkins' world-famous automated sailing ship while traveling to a dinner party at Larry Ellison's residence. He clarifies that while the ship is a technological marvel built in Turkey, he has no desire to attend parties on boats. The dinner took place at Ellison's house, which Dvorak characterizes as a "crash pad" designed like a Four Seasons lobby where guests must remove their shoes. Keywords: [tom perkins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-perkins.md), [larry ellison](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/larry-ellison.md), maltese falcon, sailing ship, [woodside](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/woodside.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Overpriced California Wines, 2002 Vintage Horizontal Tasting (5:03–6:40) During the dinner at Larry Ellison's, Dvorak selected wines for a small group of 22 guests, including a horizontal tasting of 2002 California vintages like Colgin and Bryant Family. He criticizes these high-end bottles, which retail for $500 to $600, for having excessive alcohol content reaching 15.7%. Dvorak argues that a $20 bottle of Bordeaux he consumed later was superior, as the expensive California wines smelled primarily of ethanol. Keywords: [colgin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/colgin.md), ebreu, araujo, bryant family, [bordeaux](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bordeaux.md), [ethanol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ethanol.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Empress of China Restaurant, San Francisco Landmarks (6:41–9:22) Dvorak proposes visiting the Empress of China, a classic but faded restaurant in San Francisco's Chinatown, for a future review. He describes the venue as a semi-decadent landmark located on the 10th floor of a building overlooking the district. The hosts discuss the merits of reviewing such locations for listeners who frequent the city, contrasting it with the high-end entrepreneurial dinners Dvorak usually attends with figures like Dan Farber. Keywords: empress of china, [chinatown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chinatown.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), dan farber, [zdnet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zdnet.md), landmark [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Sequoia Capital, Financial Times Reporting Errors (9:23–12:23) Adam Curry criticizes the Financial Times for its delayed and inaccurate reporting on Sequoia Capital's "RIP Good Times" presentation. The venture capital firm held an all-hands meeting advising portfolio companies to cut costs by 60% and prepare for a dire economic climate. Curry notes that the story broke weeks earlier on Valleywag after Sequoia accidentally leaked a non-password-protected video of the confidential meeting. Keywords: [sequoia capital](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sequoia-capital.md), [financial times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-times.md), valleywag, loic le meur, [venture capital](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/venture-capital.md), [powerpoint](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/powerpoint.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Media Companies, Campaign Finance Reform Obstacles (12:24–16:10) The hosts argue that true campaign finance reform is impossible because media companies are the primary beneficiaries of election spending. John C. Dvorak admits he was wrong to bet on John McCain, noting that McCain's adherence to public funding limits puts him at a disadvantage against Barack Obama's massive private fundraising. They contend that networks and newspapers will always favor candidates who spend hundreds of millions on advertising. Keywords: [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [campaign finance reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance-reform.md), [media revenue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-revenue.md), [electoral college](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electoral-college.md), [alex jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alex-jones.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Barack Obama's Prime Time Special, Foreign Donation Concerns (16:10–18:28) Barack Obama purchased a 30-minute prime-time television special for an estimated $1 million per network, leading Fox to delay the World Series by 15 minutes. The hosts discuss the lack of transparency in modern campaign finance, specifically the difficulty in tracking small internet donations. Curry mentions that his own donation to Ron Paul via a Dutch credit card was technically illegal, highlighting the potential for foreign money to enter U.S. elections. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [world series](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-series.md), [fox network](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-network.md), [campaign finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance.md), foreign donations, [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/8.md) ### 9. General Electric, MSNBC Support for Barack Obama (18:29–22:04) Dvorak analyzes why General Electric and its subsidiary MSNBC have aligned so strongly with the Obama campaign. He suggests that corporate media entities view John McCain's history of campaign finance reform as a threat to their bottom line. The discussion covers the wave of newspaper endorsements for Obama, including the Chicago Tribune, which the hosts attribute to the media's desire for a president who will continue high-volume advertising spending. Keywords: [general electric](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/general-electric.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [chicago tribune](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago-tribune.md), [media bias](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-bias.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/9.md) ### 10. C-SPAN Financial Crisis Hearing, Subprime Mortgage Donations (22:05–24:09) During a C-SPAN investigative committee hearing on the financial crisis, Representative Tom Davis questioned Alan Greenspan, Christopher Cox, and John Snow regarding campaign contributions. The hearing revealed that Barack Obama received the most donations from subprime mortgage lenders and Wall Street firms over the last 20 years. Curry expresses disappointment that the American public does not see the connection between these donations and the current economic turmoil. Keywords: [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), [alan greenspan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alan-greenspan.md), christopher cox, john snow, [subprime mortgages](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/subprime-mortgages.md), [wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Democratic Leadership, Small Business Tax Concerns (24:10–27:18) Adam Curry expresses anger over the prospect of a Democratic-controlled government, specifically criticizing figures like Barney Frank, Nancy Pelosi, and Chris Dodd. He argues that the United States is moving toward a socialist model that makes running small to medium-sized businesses impossible due to increased taxation and regulatory burdens. Curry claims that small businesses, which create the majority of jobs, will be "screwed" to provide handouts for others. Keywords: [barney frank](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barney-frank.md), [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md), [christopher dodd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/christopher-dodd.md), [socialism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/socialism.md), [small business](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/small-business.md), [taxes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taxes.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Political Cycles, Wealth Redistribution Debate (27:18–29:41) The hosts discuss the fickle nature of the American electorate and the potential for a Republican comeback if Democrats fail to fix the economy within two years. Curry takes issue with cultural figures like Jon Stewart advocating for "spreading the wealth," arguing that true wealth is created by small businesses with 50-60 employees rather than government checks. They predict that the "Do-Nothing Congress" will face consequences if the financial crisis persists. Keywords: [jon stewart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jon-stewart.md), [wealth redistribution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wealth-redistribution.md), [republicans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republicans.md), [democrats](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democrats.md), [small business](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/small-business.md), [economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Executive Compensation, Bank Bailout Backlash (29:41–31:09) The discussion turns to the public outrage over massive executive payout packages, citing a bank CEO who walked away with $300 million after only two weeks. Dvorak suggests that these "obscene" salaries are fueling a "soak the rich" sentiment among the public. They argue that the current bailout does not address structural issues but instead highlights the disconnect between elite executive earnings and the general public's financial struggles. Keywords: [bank bailout](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bank-bailout.md), [executive pay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-pay.md), [jack welch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jack-welch.md), [wealth tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wealth-tax.md), [class warfare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/class-warfare.md), [economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Barack Obama's Birth Certificate, Hawaii Trip Conspiracy (31:10–32:35) The hosts discuss the legal challenges regarding Barack Obama's eligibility for the presidency, specifically a lawsuit in Pennsylvania concerning his birth certificate. They speculate on the timing of Obama's trip to Hawaii to visit his ill grandmother, noting conspiracy theories suggesting the trip was actually intended to resolve birth record issues. Dvorak observes that failing to produce a "vault version" of the certificate has created a persistent legal and political distraction. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [birth certificate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birth-certificate.md), [hawaii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hawaii.md), [kenya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kenya.md), [natural born citizen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/natural-born-citizen.md), [lawsuit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lawsuit.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Joe Biden's "Tested" Comment, Eight-Year Terror Cycle (32:36–33:58) Joe Biden's recorded comment about Barack Obama being "tested" by an orchestrated international crisis is analyzed. Dvorak introduces his theory of an eight-year cycle of major attacks, citing the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and the September 11 attacks. However, Dvorak predicts the next "attack" in 2009 will be financial rather than physical, involving a reset of the global reserve currency and a devaluation of the U.S. dollar. Keywords: [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [world trade center](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-trade-center.md), financial attack, [reserve currency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reserve-currency.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/15.md) ### 16. LAX Bombing Plot, Symbolic Targets (34:00–37:16) Dvorak recounts the failed "Millennium Plot" to bomb Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), where a terrorist was caught entering from Canada through Port Angeles, Washington. He argues that terrorists prefer targets with high economic and symbolic impact, such as airports or the World Trade Center, rather than the Space Needle or Sears Tower. The hosts discuss the panic-driven cancellations of public events in Seattle and San Francisco following various rumors. Keywords: [lax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lax.md), [los angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/los-angeles.md), [port angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/port-angeles.md), sears tower, [space needle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/space-needle.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Geopolitics, Arab War Methodology (37:17–41:07) The hosts debate the incentives behind global terrorism and the cyclical nature of war. Dvorak references an article from the London Times by a professor of war studies explaining the historical "hit-and-run" methodology of Arab warfare dating back to the 1400s. Curry expresses frustration with the human cost of these cycles, questioning whether Americans should be proud of a government that represents them through military force in places like Afghanistan and Iraq. Keywords: [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md), hit-and-run, war studies, london times [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/17.md) ### 18. American Isolationism, Global Military Presence (41:07–43:33) Dvorak and Curry discuss the United States' transition into a global "police state" following World War II. They note that the U.S. maintains military bases in over 200 locations, including Germany, which they argue is a mechanism for moving money rather than a modern security necessity. Curry laments the loss of American isolationism and expresses frustration that the country seems trapped in a predictable cycle of interventionism and economic reset. Keywords: [world war ii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-war-ii.md), [isolationism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isolationism.md), [military bases](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-bases.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [police state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/police-state.md), [economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Train Safety, Electronic Devices on Airplanes (43:34–46:29) A passing train prompts a discussion about a recent California train wreck allegedly caused by an engineer texting. Curry, an experienced pilot, dismisses the FAA rules requiring passengers to turn off electronic devices as "horseshit." He explains that while cell phones can cause annoying audio interference in a cockpit when searching for towers, they do not actually interfere with modern flight instruments or navigation systems. Keywords: [berkeley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/berkeley.md), [train wreck](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/train-wreck.md), [texting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texting.md), [laptops](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/laptops.md), [cell phones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cell-phones.md), [aviation safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aviation-safety.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Brazil Airport Incident, Dinner Reservations (46:29–48:22) Dvorak shares an anecdote about a flight attendant in Brazil ordering him to close his laptop while the plane was still parked at the gate. The conversation is briefly interrupted by a phone call for Dvorak regarding a dinner reservation. The hosts confirm they will be dining at Chapeau in San Francisco later that evening, having secured a 6:00 PM seating following a cancellation. Keywords: [brazil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brazil.md), [tam airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tam-airlines.md), chapeau, empress of china, [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [laptop](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/laptop.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/20.md) ### 21. RIM Pagers, Early Wireless Networking (48:23–50:45) The hosts reminisce about early Research In Motion (RIM) messaging devices from the mid-1990s, which used high-wattage PC cards to send emails. Curry describes a flight where he and a colleague sent messages back and forth from their seats, potentially causing the pilot to report navigation system issues. They discuss the high levels of radio frequency (RF) interference emitted by early portable electronics like CD players. Keywords: research in motion, [blackberry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blackberry.md), pc card, rf interference, [navigation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/navigation.md), [wireless](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wireless.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Aviation Navigation Systems, Aeroflot Experiences (50:46–52:13) Curry explains the three primary navigation systems used in aviation: Non-Directional Beacons (NDB), VHF Omni-Directional Range (VOR), and modern GPS. Dvorak then describes his experience flying on the Soviet-era Aeroflot airline, specifically the Illyushin Il-62. He recalls the cramped conditions and the minimal difference between coach and first class, which often consisted only of a few inches of extra legroom and a curtain. Keywords: [gps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gps.md), vor, ndb, [aeroflot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aeroflot.md), illyushin il-62, radio frequencies [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Soviet-Era Air Travel, Russian Makeup Shortages (52:17–55:26) Dvorak details the "prison-like" service on Aeroflot flights just before the fall of communism, including reused plastic cups and meals served on aluminum platters. He notes that Russian flight crews would stock up on makeup in London because it was unavailable in the USSR. Curry adds that in 1988, travelers were advised to bring lipsticks, chocolate, and Matchbox cars as trinkets to bribe hotel floor attendants for basic services like phone calls. Keywords: [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [makeup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/makeup.md), trinkets, [communism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/communism.md), [air travel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-travel.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Boiling Eggs at Altitude, Russian Economic Trouble (55:26–57:43) Curry recalls a British Airways first-class flight where he learned it takes nine minutes to boil a soft-boiled egg at an 8,000-foot cabin pressure altitude. The conversation shifts to the current economic state of Russia and the "out of control" behavior of the children of Russian oligarchs. Dvorak mentions that some neighborhoods are now conducting character checks on potential residents to avoid the trouble associated with this new generation of wealthy Russians. Keywords: [british airways](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/british-airways.md), soft-boiled egg, cabin pressure, [bangers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bangers.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), oil wealth [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Currency Investment, Market Transparency Issues (57:43–1:01:57) A listener's question about currency investment prompts a discussion on the risks of day trading. Curry notes that the dollar's strength against the pound has effectively given him a 20% raise in local purchasing power. Dvorak warns against small investors entering the currency or stock markets, arguing that the system is rigged by non-transparent derivatives and that corporate accounting, as seen in the Arthur Andersen scandal, is often fraudulent. Keywords: [currency trading](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/currency-trading.md), [derivatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/derivatives.md), arthur andersen, stocks, [dollar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dollar.md), [pound sterling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pound-sterling.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Professional Gambling, Layaway Systems (1:01:58–1:05:46) Dvorak compares professional day trading to professional gambling, noting that only full-time experts with significant skill can consistently profit. They advocate for saving money rather than bailing out of the market at the bottom. The hosts praise the revitalization of "layaway" plans at major department stores, arguing that paying for items over time without credit cards leads to a greater appreciation for the products purchased. Keywords: [gambling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gambling.md), [day trading](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/day-trading.md), [layaway](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/layaway.md), [credit cards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credit-cards.md), [savings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/savings.md), [economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Oil Price Collapse, Retirement Fund Strategy (1:05:46–1:08:41) John C. Dvorak reveals that his entire retirement fund is invested in DTO, an exchange-traded note that bets against the price of oil. As oil prices dropped to $67, Dvorak's investment increased in value, and he predicts oil could fall as low as $40 or $50. They discuss the noticeable drop in gasoline prices at the pump, which have fallen below $3.00 a gallon in many parts of the United States. Keywords: [oil prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-prices.md), dto, exchange traded note, retirement fund, [gasoline](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gasoline.md), [inflation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/inflation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Federal Reserve Manipulation, Bovine Growth Hormone (1:08:41–1:12:31) The hosts criticize the Federal Reserve for manipulating the money supply, which they argue creates the boom-bust cycle rather than preventing it. Curry cites a Ron Paul video from the 1980s that frames currency dilution as a moral issue, comparing it to a government diluting milk. This leads to a discussion on Monsanto's bovine growth hormone (BST), which increases milk production but, according to Dvorak, results in a tasteless, lower-quality product. Keywords: [federal reserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-reserve.md), [alan greenspan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alan-greenspan.md), [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md), [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), [bst](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bst.md), [milk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/milk.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Gay Marriage, Civil Contracts vs. Church (1:12:32–1:16:47) The hosts discuss the legal and social aspects of gay marriage in California, specifically Proposition 8. Dvorak explains that marriage in the U.S. is a civil contract governing property, hospital visitation, and insurance benefits, rather than a purely religious institution. They discuss Gavin Newsom's role in the San Francisco marriage movement and the practical legal advantages of civil unions for resolving disputes over assets and healthcare. Keywords: [gay marriage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gay-marriage.md), [proposition 8](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/proposition-8.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), civil union, [gavin newsom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gavin-newsom.md), insurance benefits [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Political Stance on Marriage, State vs. Federal Law (1:16:49–1:20:52) Curry and Dvorak analyze the public opposition to gay marriage expressed by Barack Obama and Joe Biden, labeling their stances as politically motivated lies. They discuss the Republican "states' rights" approach to the issue, which aligns with the Constitution. The conversation covers the legal complexities of moving between states with different marriage and divorce laws, such as moving from Massachusetts to Connecticut. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [federalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federalism.md), divorce law, [massachusetts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/massachusetts.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Adam Curry's Green Card Marriage, Immigration Interviews (1:20:53–1:25:30) Adam Curry shares the story of his marriage to Patricia Paay, admitting they married primarily so she could obtain a green card to move with him for his MTV contract. They were married at New York City Hall with a talent coordinator as a witness. Curry describes the rigorous and "uncomfortable" separate interviews conducted by immigration officials a year later to prove their marriage was not a sham for residency purposes. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [patricia paay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patricia-paay.md), [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md), [green card](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-card.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [city hall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/city-hall.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Silicon Valley Talent, Google Stock Decline (1:25:31–1:28:27) Dvorak discusses the difficulty of bringing international tech talent into Silicon Valley due to immigration restrictions. He notes that Google's appeal has diminished as its stock price fell from $700 to the $300 range, leaving many employee stock options "underwater." Curry compares this to his own experience taking a company public in 1996, where he restruck the option pool to protect employees, a move he doubts Google's leadership would emulate. Keywords: [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), h1-b visa, [stock options](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stock-options.md), [eric schmidt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eric-schmidt.md), [sergey brin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sergey-brin.md), [larry page](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/larry-page.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Google's Jet Fighter, Advertising Business Trends (1:28:28–1:31:10) The hosts mock Google's founders for purchasing a jet fighter while promoting "green" values, comparing it to Larry Ellison's MiG. Curry reports that while traditional advertising is under pressure, transactional business models—such as those using coupon codes for Budget Rent-A-Car—are performing exceptionally well. They discuss upcoming promotional deals for listeners, including discounts on car rentals and Brookstone products. Keywords: [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), [larry ellison](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/larry-ellison.md), mig, [adwords](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adwords.md), budget rent-a-car, transactional business [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Pet Medicine Costs, Equestrian Doctors (1:31:11–1:33:45) The discussion turns to the high cost of veterinary care and the rise of corporate pet clinic chains. Curry mentions the success of podcast advertising for pet medications, particularly in the equestrian community where horse medicine is extremely expensive. A brief joke is made about "Special K" (ketamine) being a horse tranquilizer used recreationally by humans, contrasting it with Dvorak's preference for expensive Bordeaux. Keywords: pet meds, veterinarians, [pet insurance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pet-insurance.md), [horses](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/horses.md), [special k](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/special-k.md), [ketamine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ketamine.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Election Special, Digital Hollywood Panel (1:33:48–1:37:54) The hosts conclude the show by planning their coverage for the upcoming 2008 presidential election. They decide to record a follow-up episode on November 5th from the UK to provide a European perspective on the results. Curry mentions he will be speaking on a panel at Digital Hollywood in Los Angeles on Monday, while Dvorak prepares for his own sales calls. They sign off from the "Curry Condo" and Silicon Valley North. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), digital hollywood, [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [election day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-day.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/53-gay-marriage/chapter/35.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/52-solex.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/54-obama-armbands.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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