# Almost Certain = Fact!

> Intelligence officials admit to tapping the internet backbone while climate scientists pivot to probability-based models as global warming enters an apparent pause.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 552
- **Published:** 2013-09-29
- **Length:** 2h 53m
- **Topics:** Upstream Collection, IPCC AR5, Phoebus Cartel, [iOS 7](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ios-7.md), [Westgate Mall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/westgate-mall.md), [Metadata](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metadata.md), [Carbon Budget](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-budget.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact

## About this episode

The Senate Intelligence Committee hearings took a sharp turn as Senator Dianne Feinstein and NSA Director Keith Alexander defended domestic surveillance programs using the Westgate Mall attack in Nairobi as a primary justification. Feinstein admitted to the existence of Upstream Collection, a process that taps directly into the internet backbone and domestic telecommunication lines, while proposing a seven-day window for the NSA to monitor foreign targets entering the United States without an immediate FISA warrant.

Senator Ron Wyden pressed Deputy Attorney General James Cole on the definition of metadata, exposing a technical capability for broad data access that contradicts official legal restrictions. Meanwhile, the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report introduced a global carbon budget based on computer simulations, while European Commissioner Connie Hedegaard compared the climate to a medical diagnosis requiring a cure. In the private sector, the New York Police Department began a campaign urging citizens to upgrade to iOS 7, a move suspected of facilitating remote device shutdowns during public protests.

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the session with a demonstration of the Otamatone, a Japanese electronic instrument that sets a surreal tone for the day's heavy geopolitical analysis. The hosts also explore the history of the Phoebus Cartel and its role in establishing planned obsolescence, contrasting modern five-year failure cycles in electronics with the century-old Livermore light bulb.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/transcript.md.

### 1. Otamatone Musical Instrument and Show Introduction (0:00–1:48)

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 552 of the No Agenda show from Austin, Texas. Curry introduces a new Japanese electronic musical instrument he purchased called an Otamatone, which resembles a giant musical note. The hosts briefly discuss the cost and novelty of the device before transitioning into the day's news topics.

Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), otamatone, japanese device, [podcast intro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-intro.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Miss World 2013 Pageant in Bali (1:49–3:15)

The hosts discuss the recent Miss World 2013 pageant held on the Indonesian island of Bali. Megan Young, representing the Philippines, was crowned the winner, though the hosts note her American background. They briefly debate the differences between the Miss World and Miss Universe competitions.

Keywords: miss world, [philippines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/philippines.md), [bali](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bali.md), [indonesia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/indonesia.md), megan young

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Senate Intelligence Committee Hearings and NSA Roaming Gap (3:16–8:18)

The discussion shifts to the Senate Intelligence Committee hearings featuring Director of National Intelligence James Clapper and NSA Director Keith Alexander. Senator Dianne Feinstein describes a "donut hole" or gap in the law regarding "roaming incidents," where surveillance must cease when a foreign target enters the United States. Feinstein proposes a seven-day window to allow continued surveillance while seeking a FISA court warrant.

Keywords: [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [dianne feinstein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dianne-feinstein.md), [james clapper](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-clapper.md), [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md), [fisa court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa-court.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Westgate Mall Attack and Al-Qaeda Twitter Presence (8:18–13:48)

Senator Dianne Feinstein uses the Westgate Mall attack in Nairobi, Kenya, to justify the necessity of NSA surveillance programs. The hosts critique the intelligence community's failure to prevent the attack despite reported warnings. They also highlight the emergence of an official Al-Qaeda Twitter account, Shomokalislam, mocking its low follower count and public messaging.

Keywords: [nairobi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nairobi.md), [kenya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kenya.md), [al-shabaab](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-shabaab.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [westgate mall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/westgate-mall.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Congressional Surveillance and Potential Executive Leverage (13:48–16:14)

The hosts revisit a prior clip where intelligence officials refused to confirm whether members of Congress are subject to phone monitoring. They suggest that such data collection could provide the executive branch with leverage or blackmail material over the legislature. The segment highlights the lack of direct questioning regarding these practices during public hearings.

Keywords: [congress](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congress.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [blackmail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blackmail.md), [james clapper](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-clapper.md), [eric holder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eric-holder.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Marco Rubio and NSA Safeguard Questioning (16:16–19:52)

Senator Marco Rubio is criticized for his performance during the intelligence hearings, with the hosts suggesting he appeared compromised or coached. Rubio asked General Keith Alexander a "softball" question regarding the size and scope of NSA safeguards for American privacy. The hosts interpret his delivery as hesitant and subservient to the intelligence agencies.

Keywords: [marco rubio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marco-rubio.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md), [senate intelligence committee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/senate-intelligence-committee.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/6.md)

### 7. FBI Agent Sentencing and Child Pornography Allegations (19:53–21:34)

The hosts discuss the 15-year prison sentence of a former FBI agent involved in leaking information about a fake underwear bomber in Yemen. They note that the majority of the sentence was tied to child pornography charges found on his computer. A theory is proposed that such charges are used as a "Marco Polo" tactic to compromise or silence individuals.

Keywords: [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [leak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leak.md), [child pornography](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/child-pornography.md), [associated press](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/associated-press.md), [yemen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yemen.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Ron Wyden and Metadata Collection Definitions (21:35–27:01)

Senator Ron Wyden questions Deputy Attorney General James Cole regarding the definition of metadata collection. Cole argues that the program should not be called "surveillance" because it only collects phone numbers, dates, and durations rather than content. The hosts analyze Cole's verbal stumbling as an admission that the technical capability for broader data access exists despite legal restrictions.

Keywords: [ron wyden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-wyden.md), james cole, [metadata](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metadata.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [senate intelligence committee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/senate-intelligence-committee.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Upstream Collection and Internet Backbone Tapping (27:02–32:27)

Senator Dianne Feinstein admits to the existence of "Upstream Collection," which involves tapping directly into domestic telecommunication lines and the internet backbone. She describes a 2011 compliance incident where the NSA inadvertently bundled and acquired domestic emails. The hosts mock her technical explanation of "bundled" emails and her use of the term "internet background."

Keywords: upstream collection, [dianne feinstein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dianne-feinstein.md), [fiber optics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fiber-optics.md), [at&t](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/at-t.md), [fisa court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa-court.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Cell Site Location Data and Bulk Collection Plans (32:28–38:06)

Senator Ron Wyden repeatedly asks General Keith Alexander if the NSA has ever collected or planned to collect American cell site location information in bulk. Alexander refers to a previous unclassified response stating the NSA has no current plans to do so under Section 215. Wyden expresses frustration, claiming the question regarding past plans remains unanswered.

Keywords: [ron wyden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-wyden.md), [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md), cell site data, [geolocation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geolocation.md), [section 215](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/section-215.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Media Security Clearances and Classified Briefings (38:07–42:21)

Senator Dan Coats mentions that broadcast executives and media personnel were given classified briefings to correct their understanding of NSA programs. The hosts argue that if media members hold security clearances, they are legally barred from reporting the truth, creating a massive conflict of interest. They suggest the news media is effectively compromised by the intelligence community.

Keywords: [dan coats](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dan-coats.md), [media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media.md), [security clearance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security-clearance.md), [classified information](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/classified-information.md), [conflict of interest](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/conflict-of-interest.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/11.md)

### 12. The Fifth Estate Movie and Global Surveillance News (42:21–47:06)

The hosts round up several news items, including the upcoming premiere of the Julian Assange biopic "The Fifth Estate." They discuss Glenn Greenwald's collaboration with Jeremy Scahill on U.S. assassination programs and a New York Times report by Laura Poitras on NSA social connection mapping. Additionally, they note the Amsterdam Internet Exchange's plan to establish direct lines to the U.S. East Coast.

Keywords: [julian assange](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julian-assange.md), [glenn greenwald](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-greenwald.md), [laura poitras](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/laura-poitras.md), amsterdam internet exchange, [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Bulk Records Collection and Personal Privacy Opt-Out (47:07–49:54)

Senator Tom Udall asks General Keith Alexander if there are upper limits on telephone record collection and if the goal is to collect all American records. Alexander's response confirms the authority to collect various types of bulk records. In response to these revelations, one host describes "opting out" of the surveillance state by using an older iPod Touch with Wi-Fi instead of a standard cellular phone.

Keywords: [tom udall](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-udall.md), bulk records, [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), [ipod touch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipod-touch.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/13.md)

### 14. iOS 7 Security Features and NYPD Upgrade Campaign (49:55–53:42)

The New York Police Department is reportedly handing out flyers encouraging citizens to upgrade to Apple's iOS 7. While the official reason is the new "Activation Lock" security feature to deter theft, the hosts speculate on more nefarious motives. They discuss a patent that could allow authorities to remotely disable phones in specific geographic areas, such as during protests.

Keywords: [ios 7](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ios-7.md), [apple](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple.md), [nypd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nypd.md), activation lock, protest surveillance

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Native Advertising in The Crazy Ones (53:42–54:59)

The hosts critique the premiere of the Robin Williams sitcom "The Crazy Ones," describing it as a half-hour "native advertisement" for McDonald's. The plot centered on securing McDonald's as a client and featured Kelly Clarkson singing a jingle. They argue that the line between entertainment and corporate promotion has been completely erased.

Keywords: [native advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/native-advertising.md), [robin williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robin-williams.md), [mcdonald's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mcdonald-s.md), the crazy ones, [product placement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/product-placement.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Producer Donations and The Green Knight (55:00–1:00:26)

The hosts acknowledge executive producer Timothy Dickman, who donated to become the "Green Knight." They recount the story of how they first met during the early days of CNET television pilots in San Francisco. The segment includes the "de-douching" and "karma" rituals for various donors.

Keywords: timothy dickman, green knight, [cnet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnet.md), [leo laporte](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leo-laporte.md), [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Executive Producer Credits and No Agenda PR (1:00:26–1:09:42)

The hosts read through a long list of donations and letters from "Associate Executive Producers." Topics in the letters range from recovery from pulmonary embolisms under Obamacare to memories of UK pirate radio station Radio Caroline. They also promote the No Agenda mobile apps available on Amazon and Android.

Keywords: [obamacare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obamacare.md), radio caroline, [no agenda app](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-app.md), [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md), [executive producer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producer.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Eric Holthaus and Environmental Extremism (1:09:50–1:11:32)

Meteorologist Eric Holthaus, formerly of the Wall Street Journal, made headlines by vowing never to fly again and considering a vasectomy to reduce his carbon footprint. The hosts mock this as a trend of "environmental extremism" and "hippie" posturing. They question the actual impact of one person refusing to fly on a scheduled commercial flight.

Keywords: eric holthaus, [wall street journal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street-journal.md), [vasectomy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vasectomy.md), [carbon footprint](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-footprint.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/18.md)

### 19. IPCC Fifth Assessment Report and Climate Services (1:11:33–1:19:16)

The IPCC released the executive summary of its Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) for policymakers. The hosts analyze the messaging, noting the shift toward terms like "extremely likely" and the introduction of a "global carbon budget." They critique the concept of "climate services" as a way to integrate carbon pricing into every sector of the global economy.

Keywords: [ipcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipcc.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), global carbon budget, world meteorological organization, [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Global Warming Pause and Media Coverage (1:19:17–1:21:29)

CBS News reports on the "apparent pause" in global warming since 1998, noting that temperatures have not risen despite increasing greenhouse gases. The hosts discuss how this data provides ammunition for skeptics and complicates the narrative for climate scientists. They highlight the difficulty of maintaining a sense of urgency during a cooling trend.

Keywords: global warming pause, [cbs news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbs-news.md), benny peiser, [greenhouse gases](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenhouse-gases.md), climate skeptics

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Climate Model Simulations and Probability Scales (1:21:29–1:25:33)

The hosts examine the methodology of the IPCC report, which relies heavily on computer simulations and "qualitative levels of confidence." They explain that the widely cited "95% certainty" figure is an extrapolation of the term "extremely likely" rather than a direct statistical fact. They argue the report is based on consensus and agreement rather than definitive proof.

Keywords: [climate models](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-models.md), [computer simulations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/computer-simulations.md), [probability](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/probability.md), extremely likely, [ipcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipcc.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Connie Hedegaard and the Planet Diagnosis Metaphor (1:25:34–1:27:41)

European Commissioner for Climate Connie Hedegaard compares the IPCC report to a medical diagnosis, stating that a 95% certainty of a dangerous disease requires a cure. The hosts criticize this metaphor as alarmist and scientifically inaccurate. They discuss the EU's targets for 2030 and the push for an "energy budget" for the Earth.

Keywords: [connie hedegaard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/connie-hedegaard.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [climate policy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-policy.md), [diagnosis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diagnosis.md), [carbon budget](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-budget.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Eric Groten and the EPA Supreme Court Case (1:27:42–1:35:46)

Environmental lawyer Eric Groten is challenging the EPA's authority to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act. The case, potentially heading to the Supreme Court, questions whether the EPA must prove that its regulations will meaningfully mitigate climate risks. The hosts discuss the 2007 ruling that classified carbon dioxide as a poisonous gas and the implications for future regulation.

Keywords: eric groten, [epa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/epa.md), [clean air act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clean-air-act.md), [carbon dioxide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-dioxide.md), [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/23.md)

### 24. James Hansen and the Ecuador Oil Drilling Dispute (1:35:47–1:40:57)

Climate scientist James Hansen and other activists wrote an open letter to President Rafael Correa of Ecuador, urging him not to drill for oil in the Amazon. Ecuador had previously offered to leave the oil in the ground if the international community provided $3.6 billion in compensation, but the initiative failed to attract sufficient funds. The hosts discuss the economic reality of poor nations choosing resource extraction over environmental preservation.

Keywords: [james hansen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-hansen.md), [ecuador](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ecuador.md), rafael correa, yasuni-itt, [oil drilling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-drilling.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Carbon Pricing and Solar Cycle Influences (1:40:57–1:46:45)

The discussion turns to the financial motivations behind climate policy, specifically the push for carbon pricing and cap-and-trade systems. The hosts argue that natural factors, such as the 11-year solar cycle, play a larger role in temperature variance than human activity. They suggest the current agenda is a "money grab" designed to benefit financial markets and transaction fees.

Keywords: [carbon pricing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-pricing.md), [imf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imf.md), [solar cycle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/solar-cycle.md), [global cooling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-cooling.md), [sun](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sun.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Phoebus Cartel and Planned Obsolescence in Light Bulbs (1:46:45–1:51:55)

The hosts explore the history of the Phoebus Cartel, a group of light bulb manufacturers in the 1920s that conspired to limit the lifespan of bulbs to 1,000 hours. They contrast this with the "Livermore light bulb," which has burned for over 110 years. The segment discusses how planned obsolescence has become a fundamental part of the modern economy, from iPhones to household appliances.

Keywords: phoebus cartel, [planned obsolescence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/planned-obsolescence.md), livermore light bulb, [thomas edison](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/thomas-edison.md), [led](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/led.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Solid State Electronics and Five-Year Failure Cycles (1:51:55–1:55:09)

A personal anecdote about a failed M-Audio device leads to a discussion on why modern solid-state electronics seem to fail on a predictable five-year cycle. A Comcast technician reportedly told one host that certain modems are designed to "go out" every five years. The hosts question why low-power, solid-state devices would have such limited lifespans without intentional engineering for failure.

Keywords: solid state, [m-audio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/m-audio.md), [comcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/comcast.md), docsis 3, [motorola](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/motorola.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Sack of Sixes Anniversary Donations (1:55:10–2:05:43)

The hosts process a large volume of $66.66 donations, referred to as a "sack of sixes," to celebrate the show's upcoming sixth anniversary. They provide "job karma" and "de-douching" for listeners from the Netherlands, Australia, and across North America. The segment includes a "smooth Delilah" voice reading of a birthday message for a listener's husband.

Keywords: [sack of sixes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sack-of-sixes.md), [anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anniversary.md), [donation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donation.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [birthday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthday.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Knighting Ceremony for Timothy Dickman and Rolf Lehman (2:05:48–2:09:00)

Timothy Dickman and Rolf Lehman are formally knighted as "Sir Green Knight" and "Sir Black Knight" for their contributions of $1,000 or more. The hosts perform the traditional No Agenda knighting ceremony, welcoming them to the roundtable. They also mention the availability of No Agenda rings for high-level donors.

Keywords: [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), sir green knight, sir black knight, timothy dickman, rolf lehman

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Sibling Bullying and Cybersecurity Foundations (2:09:01–2:14:57)

A report by Robin Kowalski on sibling bullying is discussed, with the hosts mocking the idea that common childhood interactions are now being classified as "violence." They analyze a public service announcement from "Smart Cyber Choices," which is sponsored by the security firm ESET. The hosts suggest these campaigns are the beginning of a "cybersecurity state" designed to lure the public into more surveillance.

Keywords: sibling bullying, robin kowalski, eset, [cyberbullying](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cyberbullying.md), san diego police foundation

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Margaret Sanger and the History of Planned Parenthood (2:14:57–2:22:35)

The hosts examine the eugenicist roots of Planned Parenthood and its founder, Margaret Sanger. They read excerpts from Sanger's 1930s writings, which expressed admiration for Nazi sterilization programs and targeted African American populations for birth control. The segment links this history to Bill Gates' father's involvement with the organization and modern concerns about genetic data privacy through services like 23andMe.

Keywords: [margaret sanger](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/margaret-sanger.md), [planned parenthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/planned-parenthood.md), [eugenics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eugenics.md), [bill gates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-gates.md), [nazi germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nazi-germany.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/31.md)

### 32. Navy Yard Shooting Video and Ammo Discrepancies (2:22:37–2:25:04)

The hosts critique the released surveillance video of the Washington Navy Yard shooter, Aaron Alexis. They point out that Alexis is seen carrying a shotgun but lacks a backpack or visible ammunition to account for the number of shots fired. They question why the media describes the video as "chilling" when it shows very little actual violence or tactical equipment.

Keywords: [navy yard shooting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/navy-yard-shooting.md), [aaron alexis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aaron-alexis.md), [shotgun](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shotgun.md), [surveillance video](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance-video.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Sandy Hook 911 Tapes and Media Censorship (2:25:04–2:30:08)

A court ruling in Connecticut ordered the release of 911 calls from the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Rachel Maddow is featured in a clip arguing that while she is a "free speech purist," the media should collectively refuse to broadcast the audio of the calls. The hosts find it uncharacteristic for a news person to advocate for the suppression of public records.

Keywords: [sandy hook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sandy-hook.md), [911 calls](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/911-calls.md), [rachel maddow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rachel-maddow.md), [freedom of speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freedom-of-speech.md), [connecticut](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/connecticut.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/33.md)

### 34. Clinton Global Initiative and Obamacare Outreach (2:30:09–2:37:13)

Bill Clinton and Barack Obama appeared together at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) to discuss healthcare and international aid. The hosts mock the "cheesy" production music and the awkward segues between topics like childhood obesity and Obamacare. Clinton emphasizes the need for young, healthy people to sign up for insurance pools to keep costs low for those with pre-existing conditions.

Keywords: [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [clinton global initiative](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinton-global-initiative.md), [obamacare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obamacare.md), [childhood obesity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/childhood-obesity.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/34.md)

### 35. Hillary Clinton 2016 Speculation and Political Strategy (2:37:14–2:42:37)

The hosts discuss the "Ready for Hillary" campaign and speculation regarding Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential run. Bill Clinton suggests she should enjoy her life and finish her book before making a decision. The hosts analyze the fundraising tactics of independent groups and predict a long, "tiresome" four-year campaign cycle.

Keywords: [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [2016 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2016-election.md), [ready for hillary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ready-for-hillary.md), [campaign finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/35.md)

### 36. John Kerry and the Promotion of Tolerance (2:42:37–2:45:36)

Secretary of State John Kerry is highlighted for his repeated use of the word "tolerance" in speeches regarding violent extremism. The hosts note his "Kennedy-esque" cadence and argue that the push for tolerance is a global legislative agenda. Kerry contrasts the "emptiness" of terrorist attacks with the positive offerings of schools and health clinics.

Keywords: [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [tolerance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tolerance.md), [violent extremism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/violent-extremism.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/36.md)

### 37. Orbital Sciences vs. SpaceX Media Coverage (2:45:37–2:53:46)

The hosts compare the massive media attention given to Elon Musk's SpaceX with the relatively quiet docking of Orbital Sciences' Cygnus spacecraft with the ISS. They argue that Orbital is a "real" aerospace company with deep ties to missile defense and satellite launches, while SpaceX serves as a celebrity-driven distraction. The segment concludes with a critique of "techie fanboys" who prioritize personality over industrial reality.

Keywords: orbital sciences, [spacex](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spacex.md), [elon musk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elon-musk.md), [international space station](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/international-space-station.md), cygnus

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/552-almost-certain-fact/chapter/37.md)

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