# Blotto

> A predictable cadence of national security events suggests the FBI is orchestrating its own relevance while the surveillance state expands under the guise of climate resilience.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 562
- **Published:** 2013-11-03
- **Length:** 2h 47m
- **Topics:** FBI cycle, [LAX shooting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lax-shooting.md), [Hillary Clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [Healthcare.gov](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/healthcare-gov.md), NSA spying, [Lumosity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lumosity.md), [Daylight Savings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daylight-savings.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto

## About this episode

The FBI is operating on a predictable six-week cadence of national security events, a cycle that allegedly forecasted the November 1 shooting at Los Angeles International Airport. While the agency immediately seized jurisdictional control, skeptics point to KTLA footage and statements from Airport Police Chief Patrick Cannon suggesting the incident mirrored recent training exercises. The narrative surrounding suspect Paul Anthony Ciancia and his supposed New World Order manifesto is framed as a federal effort to link anti-government sentiment to domestic terrorism.

Discrepancies in the LAX timeline include the diversion of a flight of Thai musicians to San Jose rather than nearby Ontario, and the transport of victims to UCLA Medical Center despite heavy traffic. Meanwhile, the Southern Poverty Law Center and Mark Potok are accused of stoking racial tension by linking the shooter to the Patriot movement. In Washington, President Obama issued an executive order on climate change that critics argue expands FBI and DOJ surveillance powers by tying environmental resilience to critical infrastructure protection. This shift occurs as Hillary Clinton faces scrutiny for $400,000 speaking fees from Goldman Sachs and allegations that the State Department offloaded spying blame onto the NSA to protect her 2016 ambitions.

Technical failures haunt the administration as Healthcare.gov reportedly enrolled only six people in its first 24 hours, a disaster confirmed by University of Texas supercomputer experts. A neuroscience professor debunks Lumosity marketing, clarifying that physical exercise outperforms digital puzzles for cognitive health. The episode concludes with a look at the convenience of commerce behind Daylight Savings Time and the disturbing rise of state propaganda in schools via Teen Kids News.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/transcript.md.

### 1. FBI Six-Week Cycle, LAX Shooting Prediction (0:00–3:57)

The discussion centers on a theory regarding the FBI's operational cadence, claiming the agency orchestrates or highlights national security events every six weeks to maintain relevance. This "six-week cycle" allegedly predicted the timing of the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) shooting on November 1, 2013. Tech journalist Molly Wood is mentioned as having noted the accuracy of this schedule during her travel planning.

Keywords: [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [lax shooting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lax-shooting.md), [six-week cycle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/six-week-cycle.md), [national security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-security.md), [molly wood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/molly-wood.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/1.md)

### 2. LAX Shooting Skepticism, FBI Jurisdictional Role (4:00–10:42)

Skepticism is raised regarding the authenticity of the LAX shooting, citing a lack of empirical evidence and suspicious media imagery that resembles practice dummies. Analysis of KTLA footage and statements from Airport Police Chief Patrick Cannon suggests the event mirrored a recent training exercise. The FBI's immediate assumption of lead investigative authority at the airport is questioned as an unusual jurisdictional move.

Keywords: [lax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lax.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [ktla](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ktla.md), patrick cannon, [training exercise](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/training-exercise.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Flight Diversions, San Jose Airport Logistics (10:42–14:19)

A group of high school musicians from Thailand had their flight diverted from LAX to San Jose Airport, 400 miles away, following the shooting. The logistics of this diversion are questioned given the proximity of other Southern California airports like Ontario or Burbank. The explanation provided suggests that airline fuel planning and pre-set alternates often dictate such long-distance diversions during emergencies.

Keywords: [lax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lax.md), san jose airport, [flight diversion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flight-diversion.md), [aviation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aviation.md), high school musicians

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/3.md)

### 4. LAX Eyewitness Discrepancies, Medical Transport Logistics (14:20–20:39)

Conflicting eyewitness reports from the LAX shooting are analyzed, noting discrepancies in the shooter's clothing and the presence of police helicopters before the event. Questions are raised about why victims were transported to UCLA Medical Center, 400 minutes away in traffic, rather than closer facilities. Observations of triage areas and video footage lead to claims that the emergency response appeared staged or inconsistent with a real mass casualty event.

Keywords: [lax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lax.md), ucla medical center, [tmz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tmz.md), [eyewitness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eyewitness.md), police helicopter

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Scripted Language Analysis, "Belongings" and "Hit the Deck" (20:40–24:38)

The use of specific terminology by LAX eyewitnesses, such as "belongings," "be screened," and "hit the deck," is criticized as sounding scripted rather than natural. An anecdote about the television show "Swamp Thing" illustrates how writers often force actors to use unnatural slang like "blotto." The analysis suggests that the language used in news interviews often mirrors law enforcement or cinematic scripts.

Keywords: [linguistics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linguistics.md), [script writing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/script-writing.md), [swamp thing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swamp-thing.md), [terminology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terminology.md), [eyewitness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eyewitness.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Eyewitness Jose Analysis, CNN Sweeps Week Coverage (24:38–29:23)

An interview with an eyewitness named Jose is deconstructed, highlighting logical inconsistencies in his account of the shooter's movements between Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. The timing of the LAX event is noted to coincide with the beginning of November "sweeps week" for television networks. CNN's wall-to-wall coverage is described as a strategic move to capitalize on the drama for ratings.

Keywords: [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), jose, [eyewitness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eyewitness.md), sweeps week, terminal 3

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Media Analysis, Zen TV Experiment and Audio Perception (29:23–33:42)

The "Zen TV Experiment" is referenced to explain how the human brain fills in blanks when watching television news. It is argued that listening to news audio without the distracting visuals of "mayhem" allows for a more critical analysis of the facts. The segment contrasts the sensationalist visual reporting of television with the more curated audio reports found on outlets like NPR.

Keywords: [zen tv experiment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zen-tv-experiment.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [media literacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-literacy.md), visual bias, [dick wolf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dick-wolf.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Paul Anthony Ciancia, New World Order Conspiracy Claims (33:42–40:02)

The background of LAX shooting suspect Paul Anthony Ciancia is examined, specifically the claims that he carried a "manifesto" referencing the New World Order. CNN correspondent Barbara Starr's definition of the New World Order as a conspiracy theory is contrasted with a 1991 speech by President George H.W. Bush using the exact same term. The narrative is framed as an attempt by federal officials to link anti-government sentiment to domestic terrorism.

Keywords: paul anthony ciancia, [new world order](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-world-order.md), [barbara starr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barbara-starr.md), [george h.w. bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-h-w-bush.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Southern Poverty Law Center, Racial Tension Allegations (40:03–46:06)

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and its senior fellow Mark Potok are criticized for an "exclusive" report claiming the LAX shooter's note contained anti-government rants and slurs against Janet Napolitano. The SPLC's assertion that the "Patriot movement" has grown due to the election of a black president is labeled as racially inflammatory. The discussion suggests such organizations profit from stoking racial and political divisions.

Keywords: [splc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/splc.md), [mark potok](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-potok.md), [janet napolitano](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/janet-napolitano.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [race relations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/race-relations.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Healthcare.gov Failures, Obama-bot Dinner Anecdote (46:06–51:06)

A dinner with a group of Obama supporters and a computer science professor reveals a sense of apathy among Democrats regarding the NSA and the failures of Healthcare.gov. The professor, who has access to the University of Texas supercomputer center, acknowledges the technical disaster of the health insurance exchange website. Documents revealed that only six people successfully enrolled in the site during its first 24 hours of operation.

Keywords: [healthcare.gov](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/healthcare-gov.md), [obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obama.md), [glenn greenwald](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-greenwald.md), [university of texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/university-of-texas.md), supercomputing

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Gun Control Propaganda, Texas Abortion Law (51:06–55:12)

The repetitive nature of mass casualty events is described as a propaganda tool for gun control that eventually numbs the public. This is compared to the RIAA's legal campaign against MP3s, which inadvertently popularized Napster by bringing it to the public's attention. Additionally, the Texas Supreme Court's decision to overturn objections to a restrictive abortion law is mentioned as a missed topic of conversation during a recent social gathering.

Keywords: [gun control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gun-control.md), [riaa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/riaa.md), [napster](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/napster.md), [texas supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas-supreme-court.md), [molly wood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/molly-wood.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Compromised Hosts, NSA Surveillance Concerns (55:12–56:41)

Listener feedback is addressed regarding whether the show's hosts have been compromised by the NSA or CIA. One listener suggests that the agency might be using records of Silk Road purchases as leverage to change the show's narrative about General Keith Alexander. The hosts deny being influenced, maintaining their critical stance on domestic spying.

Keywords: [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [silk road](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silk-road.md), [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md), [domestic spying](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/domestic-spying.md), [listener feedback](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/listener-feedback.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Lumosity Brain Games, Physical Exercise Benefits (56:42–58:28)

A discussion with a neuroscience professor debunks the marketing claims of "brain game" companies like Lumosity. The professor clarifies that "neuroelasticity" is a made-up marketing term, whereas "neuroplasticity" is the scientific reality. He asserts that physical exercise, such as walking or jogging, is significantly more effective for cognitive health than digital puzzles.

Keywords: [lumosity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lumosity.md), [neuroplasticity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neuroplasticity.md), [neuroscience](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neuroscience.md), [psychology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/psychology.md), [cognitive health](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cognitive-health.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Academic Career Management, MKUltra Knowledge (58:28–1:02:40)

The idea of a management agency for "superstar" professors is proposed, comparing their career trajectories to professional athletes. A conversation with a professor reveals that while many academics are unaware of the CIA's MKUltra program, those in high-level research are often familiar with it. The segment suggests that researchers should seek Department of Defense (DOD) funding rather than NIH grants for more substantial resources.

Keywords: [mkultra](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mkultra.md), [nih](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nih.md), [dod](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dod.md), academic research, career management

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Korean Dinner Details, Crème Brûlée Torch (1:02:40–1:04:53)

Details of a Korean dinner are shared, featuring spicy squid, shrimp, and beef. A humorous moment is described where a professor used a laboratory torch to caramelize a homemade crème brûlée. The hosts conclude that their social interactions with "Obots" have become too friendly to maintain their usual level of mockery.

Keywords: korean cuisine, [beef](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/beef.md), crème brûlée, laboratory equipment, social event

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Producer Credits, Robert Alter, Value for Value (1:04:53–1:08:08)

The show acknowledges its financial supporters under the "Value for Value" model. Robert Alter is credited as an Executive Producer while working in Paris, and Jeffrey Fitch is named an Associate Executive Producer. The segment emphasizes that the show relies entirely on listener contributions rather than traditional advertising.

Keywords: [robert alter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robert-alter.md), jeffrey fitch, [paris](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paris.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [executive producer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producer.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Daylight Savings Time, Convenience of Commerce (1:08:10–1:13:04)

The history and purpose of Daylight Savings Time are explored, tracing legislation from the Uniform Time Act of 1966 to the Energy Policy Act of 2007. While often attributed to farmers or energy savings, the legal justification is frequently cited as the "convenience of commerce." The theory presented is that extra daylight in the evening encourages billions of dollars in additional consumer shopping.

Keywords: [daylight savings time](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daylight-savings-time.md), uniform time act 1966, energy policy act 2007, [commerce](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/commerce.md), [benjamin franklin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benjamin-franklin.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/17.md)

### 18. National Awareness Months, Cultural Marxism in Sports (1:13:06–1:14:58)

A list of presidential proclamations for November is reviewed, including National Diabetes Month and National Native American Heritage Month. The controversy surrounding the Washington Redskins name is dismissed as "cultural Marxism." The segment notes the irony of attacking the Redskins while other teams like the Florida State Seminoles use similar imagery without equal scrutiny.

Keywords: [diabetes month](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diabetes-month.md), [redskins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/redskins.md), florida state seminoles, [cultural marxism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cultural-marxism.md), [alzheimer's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alzheimer-s.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Climate Change Executive Order, Cybersecurity Spying (1:14:58–1:20:33)

President Obama's executive order on "Preparing the United States for the Impacts of Climate Change" is analyzed as a broad expansion of federal power. The order links climate resilience to Presidential Policy Directive 21, which focuses on critical infrastructure and cybersecurity. This move is interpreted as giving the FBI and DOJ full reign to increase domestic surveillance under the guise of environmental protection.

Keywords: [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [executive order](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-order.md), [cybersecurity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cybersecurity.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [critical infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/critical-infrastructure.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Glenn Greenwald, Hillary Clinton Spying Allegations (1:20:33–1:25:53)

Glenn Greenwald's strategy of slowly leaking NSA documents is praised for keeping the surveillance issue in the public eye. General Keith Alexander's recent comments at the Council on Foreign Relations are interpreted as shifting blame for spying from the NSA to "policy makers" like ambassadors. This leads to a theory that the State Department, under Hillary Clinton, was involved in spying initiatives that are now being blamed on the NSA to protect her future political ambitions.

Keywords: [glenn greenwald](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-greenwald.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [keith alexander](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keith-alexander.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Hillary Clinton Speaking Fees, Goldman Sachs (1:25:53–1:29:36)

Hillary Clinton's recent speeches for Goldman Sachs, for which she reportedly earned $400,000, are characterized as a form of "pre-paid bribery" or extortion. The segment compares these high fees to the way the Yakuza used golf club memberships for money laundering. A new book titled "Double Down" is also mentioned, which allegedly details President Obama's comments on his proficiency with drone strikes.

Keywords: [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [speaking fees](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/speaking-fees.md), [bribery](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bribery.md), double down

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Hillary Clinton 2016, Neoliberalism and Sociopathy (1:29:36–1:34:20)

Director Rob Reiner's appearance on Bill Maher's show, where he called Hillary Clinton the "single most qualified person ever" to run for president, is critiqued. The hosts argue that Clinton represents a "neoliberal" and "sociopathic" political class that is deeply connected to the military-industrial complex. Despite their personal distaste, they predict she will be the first "Empress" of the United States due to her extensive connections and the lack of viable Republican opposition.

Keywords: [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [rob reiner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rob-reiner.md), [bill maher](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-maher.md), [neoliberalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neoliberalism.md), [2016 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2016-election.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Secret Service Scandals, Rafael Prieto Suicide (1:34:20–1:39:31)

The recent suicide of Secret Service agent Rafael Prieto is discussed within the context of the "Clinton body count" conspiracy theory. Prieto was reportedly under investigation for an unreported relationship with a foreign national. The segment suggests that the Secret Service has been "cleaned up" through dismissals and scandals to prepare for a potential Hillary Clinton presidency.

Keywords: [secret service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secret-service.md), rafael prieto, [clinton body count](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinton-body-count.md), prostitution scandal, [2016 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2016-election.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Eugenics History, Liberal Apathy (1:39:31–1:41:56)

A debate over the history of the eugenics movement in the United States reveals that many modern liberals are unaware of its origins within their own political lineage. The hosts recall the "question authority" mantra of 1960s Berkeley hippies, contrasting it with what they perceive as modern liberal blind obedience to the Obama administration.

Keywords: [eugenics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eugenics.md), [bill gates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-gates.md), [berkeley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/berkeley.md), [hippies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hippies.md), [political philosophy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/political-philosophy.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Food Stamp Fraud, Occupy Wall Street Co-option (1:41:56–1:46:43)

The debate over food stamp (SNAP) fraud is addressed, with the hosts arguing that the government should focus on enforcement rather than cutting benefits for the needy. They contrast the "petty" fraud of the poor with the systemic fraud of Wall Street. The segment also reflects on how the Occupy Wall Street movement was ignored by mainstream media until it could be co-opted and ridiculed.

Keywords: [food stamps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/food-stamps.md), [snap](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/snap.md), [occupy wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/occupy-wall-street.md), [fraud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fraud.md), [mainstream media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mainstream-media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/25.md)

### 26. US Manufacturing Strategy, Global Economic Competition (1:46:43–1:50:30)

Secretary of State John Kerry's comments on the US becoming competitive in manufacturing are analyzed as a sign that the US is positioning itself as a "cheap labor" alternative to China. The hosts express concern that this shift will lead to increased pollution and a "blue-collar" future for American workers. They also note that even "innovative" American products like Google Glass are currently manufactured in China.

Keywords: [manufacturing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/manufacturing.md), [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [epa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/epa.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [google glass](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-glass.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Texting While Driving, Planned Obsolescence (1:50:31–1:56:14)

The dangers of texting while driving are discussed, with claims that it is more hazardous than drunk driving. The conversation shifts to "planned obsolescence" in consumer goods, specifically light bulbs. The hosts criticize compact fluorescent lights as a scam and advocate for LED technology, despite the higher initial investment.

Keywords: [texting while driving](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texting-while-driving.md), led lights, [planned obsolescence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/planned-obsolescence.md), [light bulbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/light-bulbs.md), [texas law](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas-law.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Donation Segment, Value for Value Model (1:56:14–2:02:21)

The show processes a series of donations from listeners in Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. The hosts reiterate their "Value for Value" model, explaining that they avoid traditional advertising to maintain their independence and avoid being targeted by activists. They credit their audience for keeping the show viable for over six years.

Keywords: [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Angela Merkel Gender Joke, Signature Drone Strikes (2:02:23–2:05:39)

A slip of the tongue by journalist Bob Woodward, referring to German Chancellor Angela Merkel with male pronouns, is used to fuel a recurring joke about her gender. The discussion then turns to "signature strikes," where the CIA targets individuals based on behavioral patterns rather than confirmed identity. These strikes are criticized for their lack of judicial oversight and high civilian casualty rates.

Keywords: [angela merkel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angela-merkel.md), [bob woodward](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-woodward.md), signature strikes, [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/29.md)

### 30. USA Freedom Act, Silicon Valley Immunity (2:05:39–2:13:38)

The USA Freedom Act, sponsored by Senator Patrick Leahy, is analyzed as a piece of legislation that codifies existing spying practices while offering a veneer of transparency. Major tech companies like Google, Apple, and Microsoft have endorsed the bill, which the hosts argue is a move to secure legal immunity for handing over user data. They suggest that the bill does little to protect civil liberties and primarily serves the interests of Silicon Valley and the intelligence community.

Keywords: [usa freedom act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usa-freedom-act.md), [patrick leahy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patrick-leahy.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [fisa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Tech Dependency, Financial Bubble Warnings (2:13:39–2:18:13)

The public's dependency on major tech platforms like Gmail and Facebook is questioned, with the hosts suggesting that users could easily manage their own email servers. They discuss the potential for a new tech bubble, noting that current valuations for companies like Twitter are based on "eyeballs" rather than profitability. However, they conclude that a true bubble burst is likely still far off because there is still a high level of skepticism in the market.

Keywords: [gmail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gmail.md), [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [tech bubble](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tech-bubble.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [investment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/investment.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/31.md)

### 32. 1999 Tech Bubble Comparison, Digital Literacy (2:18:14–2:22:29)

The current tech landscape is compared to the 1999 bubble, referencing failed companies like Webvan and Pets.com. A concern is raised that modern children are not being taught fundamental digital literacy, such as how file systems work, because technology is becoming increasingly "hidden" and managed by corporations. This trend is seen as a move toward a more dependent and surveilled society.

Keywords: [webvan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/webvan.md), pets.com, [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), file systems, [education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Index Funds vs. Mutual Funds, Prudential Interview (2:22:29–2:28:11)

A Frontline documentary segment is discussed, featuring an interview with a Prudential executive who claims to be unaware of research showing index funds outperform actively managed mutual funds. The hosts argue that the financial industry and media promote mutual funds because they generate higher fees and provide content for networks like CNBC. They advocate for index funds as a more reliable long-term investment strategy.

Keywords: [index funds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/index-funds.md), mutual funds, prudential, [frontline](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/frontline.md), [vanguard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vanguard.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/33.md)

### 34. Big Pharma Scams, Lipitor and Viagra (2:28:11–2:34:20)

Former pharmaceutical rep Gwen Olson explains the connection between cholesterol-lowering drugs like Lipitor and erectile dysfunction. She points out that Pfizer, the maker of Lipitor, also profits from its number two drug, Viagra, which treats a common side effect of the former. Additionally, the segment highlights extreme price variations for generic breast cancer drugs, ranging from $11 to over $400 at different pharmacies.

Keywords: [pfizer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pfizer.md), [lipitor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lipitor.md), [viagra](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/viagra.md), [big pharma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/big-pharma.md), [generic drugs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/generic-drugs.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/34.md)

### 35. Global Atrocities, Cat Predation Statistics (2:34:21–2:37:37)

A "clip blitz" covers a series of global news items, including the decapitation of a former pro football player in Brazil and a gang rape protest in Kenya. The segment also mentions a New York Times article claiming that domestic cats are responsible for killing billions of birds and small mammals annually. The hosts jokingly suggest that cats are a greater threat to global security than al-Qaeda.

Keywords: [brazil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brazil.md), [kenya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kenya.md), [world cup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-cup.md), [cats](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cats.md), [biodiversity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/biodiversity.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/35.md)

### 36. Teen Kids News, Terrorism Fear Mongering (2:37:37–2:43:14)

The program "Teen Kids News" is criticized for broadcasting what the hosts call state propaganda to children. The show features teenagers discussing their fear of terrorism and repeating Department of Homeland Security slogans like "see something, say something." The hosts are appalled that such a program is shown in schools and carries an Emmy Award-winning pedigree.

Keywords: teen kids news, [homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homeland-security.md), [osama bin laden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/osama-bin-laden.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [emmy awards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emmy-awards.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/36.md)

### 37. Fox Cartoon "High School USA", Show Sign-off (2:43:14–2:47:47)

The hosts review a controversial Fox cartoon titled "High School USA," which features crude humor involving breastfeeding and bodily functions. They contrast this "perverted" content with the "educational" propaganda of Teen Kids News. The episode concludes with a final call for listener support and a sign-off from Austin, Texas and Northern Silicon Valley.

Keywords: [fox](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox.md), [high school usa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/high-school-usa.md), [censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/censorship.md), [fcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fcc.md), [sign-off](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sign-off.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/562-blotto/chapter/37.md)

- [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/561-neuroelasticity.md)
- [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/563-law-of-the-jungle.md)

---

This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. Every public page on this site has one: add `.md` to its URL, or request it with `Accept: text/markdown`.

- [Site index for agents (llms.txt)](https://search.noagendashow.net/llms.txt)
- [Home](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- [Search transcripts](https://search.noagendashow.net/search.md)
- [All episodes](https://search.noagendashow.net/episodes.md)
- [Topics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topics.md)
- [People](https://search.noagendashow.net/people.md)