# Carbon Credits and the CIA

> Intelligence agencies hunt for new recruits while security theater fails at the gate and the global carbon market faces a reckoning over questionable environmental math.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 64
- **Published:** 2009-01-03
- **Length:** 1h 35m
- **Topics:** CIA recruitment, [Carbon credits](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-credits.md), Gaza conflict, Yellowstone swarm, Zune bricking, [Russian gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russian-gas.md), TSA failure
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia

## About this episode

The Central Intelligence Agency has launched a public recruitment campaign targeting scientists and engineers for clandestine intelligence gathering, sparking debate over whether these job postings serve as a honeypot for potential threats. Simultaneously, a security breach involving a reporter carrying gunpowder components past TSA agents using a fake boarding pass has exposed significant vulnerabilities in airport protocols. These domestic security concerns coincide with a massive earthquake swarm at Yellowstone National Park, where over 100 daily tremors near the mega-volcano caldera have raised alarms about a potential extinction-level atmospheric event.

Global energy and environmental markets face upheaval as Russia throttles natural gas supplies to Ukraine, threatening European heating stability during a record cold snap. In the Pacific Northwest, the carbon credit industry faces scrutiny over the efficacy of zero-till farming and airline offsets, while new research from the World Commission on Dams suggests hydroelectric reservoirs may emit more greenhouse gases than fossil fuel plants. Meanwhile, Dr. Don Easterbrook and other climate scientists point to the Pacific Decadal Oscillation as evidence of a looming thirty-year global cooling phase, directly challenging the United Nations IPCC temperature models and NASA solar data.

Technical glitches defined the New Year as a programming error regarding the leap second bricked 30GB Microsoft Zune players across the globe. In the world of celebrity, Bianca Jagger and Annie Lennox have taken to the streets to protest the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, while Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver navigate separate public relations scandals involving extramarital affairs and controversial comments on the British diet. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak conclude with a look at the future of the Obama administration and the aggressive tax collection tactics currently plaguing New York City residents.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/transcript.md.

### 1. Shipping Costs, UK Import Taxes and Linen Sets (0:01–1:48)

A discussion regarding the high cost of shipping goods to the United Kingdom, specifically noting a $45 charge for t-shirts. Speculation arises that these costs are driven by textile import taxes rather than simple logistics. An anecdote describes ordering linens for a king-size bed and being surprised by a 35-pound customs fee upon delivery.

Keywords: [shipping](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shipping.md), import taxes, [fedex](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fedex.md), linens and things, king size bed

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Studio Setup, MXL-2010 Microphone and Audio Routing (1:51–5:50)

The technical configuration of a new combined audio and video production studio is detailed, featuring hard-wired connections and an MXL-2010 condenser microphone. The signal chain includes a Yamaha mixer, a compressor, a limiter, and an Apex 204 "big bottom" processor to enhance the Skype connection. Technical difficulties with network address translation and port configuration on a BT line currently prevent the integration of phone calls via Gizmo.

Keywords: mxl-2010, yamaha ng124cx, apex 204, [skype](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skype.md), voice over ip

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Stock Market Trends, January Barometer Superstition (5:52–7:34)

The stock market showed significant gains during low-volume trading days at the end of the year and the start of January. Reference is made to the "January Barometer" superstition, which suggests that the market's performance in January predicts the trend for the entire year. Uncertainty remains regarding whether the upcoming Obama administration will trigger further market volatility or growth.

Keywords: [stock market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stock-market.md), [boxing day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boxing-day.md), january barometer, [obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obama.md), [dow jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dow-jones.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Oil Price Predictions, Bandwagon Jumping Claims (7:34–10:06)

A host addresses criticism regarding past predictions of oil reaching $200 a barrel when the price was actually $126. The discussion touches on the concept of being a "bandwagon jumper" in both financial markets and sports. Correspondence from the "East Coast Research Division" is mentioned in relation to these shifting market stances.

Keywords: [oil prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-prices.md), cary lutz, [market volatility](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/market-volatility.md), sports fans, [investment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/investment.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Gaza Strip Conflict, Bianca Jagger and Annie Lennox Protests (10:11–12:53)

British celebrities Bianca Jagger and Annie Lennox have publicly protested the ongoing conflict and humanitarian tragedy in the Gaza Strip. The discussion contrasts the high volume of casualties in Gaza with the intense media obsession surrounding the death of John Travolta's son, Jett Travolta. The segment highlights the disparity between local celebrity news and global geopolitical crises.

Keywords: [gaza strip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gaza-strip.md), [israel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/israel.md), bianca jagger, annie lennox, jett travolta

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Silent PC Components, NPC Noise Custom Computers (12:54–16:08)

The benefits of custom-engineered silent computers from NPC Noise in Vancouver, Washington, are explored. These machines utilize specialized Antec cases, large slow-moving fans, and soundproofing to maintain high performance without the noise typical of standard PCs. A comparison is made to loud AMD sample machines that sounded like jet testing centers.

Keywords: silent pc, npc noise, antec, quad core, amd chips

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Netbook Operating Systems, Android and Mac OS X Ports (16:08–17:04)

Technologists are successfully loading the Android operating system and Apple's Mac OS X onto various netbook hardware, such as the HP 1000 and Asus EeePC. While Apple reportedly has mechanisms to "brick" unauthorized installations, the portability of these small devices makes them attractive targets for OS experimentation.

Keywords: [netbook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netbook.md), [android](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/android.md), [mac os x](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac-os-x.md), hp 1000, asus eeepc

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Hydropower Environmental Impact, Trouw Daily Report (17:04–19:51)

A report from the Dutch newspaper Trouw suggests that large-scale hydroelectric dams may contribute more to global warming than fossil fuel plants due to reservoir emissions. The World Commission on Dams estimates that between 40 and 80 million people have been displaced by such projects worldwide. There is skepticism regarding whether this information is legitimate environmental science or oil industry propaganda.

Keywords: [hydropower](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydropower.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), trouw, [reservoirs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reservoirs.md), world commission on dams

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Veganism and Environmental Activism, PETA Radicalism (19:51–21:30)

A discussion links environmentalism and global warming discourse to a push for veganism and the elimination of cattle herds. The hosts express wariness of radical animal rights activists associated with groups like PETA. Mention is made of the "Green" television channel and its programming, including Emeril Lagasse's "Emerald Green."

Keywords: [veganism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veganism.md), [vegetarianism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vegetarianism.md), [peta](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peta.md), green planet, emerald green

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Global Cooling Predictions, UN IPCC Model Errors (21:31–24:30)

Dr. Don Easterbrook and other scientists suggest the Earth may enter a cooling phase for the next 30 years due to the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) shifting to a cool mode. This contradicts UN IPCC models that predicted soaring temperatures. The discussion notes that NASA data on solar winds and magnetism has supported non-man-made climate drivers since 2002, though mainstream media coverage remains sparse.

Keywords: [global cooling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-cooling.md), [ipcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipcc.md), [don easterbrook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/don-easterbrook.md), [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), pacific decadal oscillation

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Yellowstone National Park, Mega-Volcano Earthquake Swarm (24:31–27:17)

Yellowstone National Park is experiencing a swarm of approximately 100 earthquakes per day, raising concerns about the giant caldera. A "mega-volcano" eruption at this site could potentially kill a vast majority of life on Earth by blocking the sun with atmospheric debris. The geographic scale of the caldera is noted as being roughly one-quarter the size of Wyoming.

Keywords: [yellowstone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yellowstone.md), caldera, [earthquakes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/earthquakes.md), mega-volcano, [wyoming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wyoming.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Zune 30GB Bricking, Leap Second Programming Error (27:18–30:27)

Microsoft's 30GB Zune MP3 players were "bricked" on December 31st due to a programming error related to the leap second. The US Navy began implementing leap seconds in 1972 to sync solar time with atomic time. The hosts express frustration with artificial time adjustments, including daylight savings time, questioning their actual energy efficiency.

Keywords: microsoft zune, [leap second](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leap-second.md), [us navy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/us-navy.md), atomic time, [daylight savings time](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daylight-savings-time.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/12.md)

### 13. TSA Security Theater, Public Fear and Hand-Wringing (30:29–33:27)

A critique of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) describes modern security measures as a "sham" designed to foster a culture of fear. The discussion suggests that Americans have become overly "skittish" and "hand-wringers" regarding terrorism and environmental issues. This climate of fear is contrasted with the perceived bravery of previous generations.

Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [security theater](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security-theater.md), [60 minutes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/60-minutes.md), [yellowstone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yellowstone.md), [political correctness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/political-correctness.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/13.md)

### 14. CIA Recruitment Ads, Clandestine Intelligence Gathering (33:27–35:57)

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has begun running radio and television advertisements to recruit scientists and engineers for "clandestine intelligence gathering." The hosts speculate that these public job postings might serve as a "honeypot" to identify potential threats or screwballs. A comparison is made to the NSA, which is often referred to as "No Such Agency."

Keywords: [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [recruitment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recruitment.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [clandestine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clandestine.md), [honeypot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/honeypot.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Gunpowder Airport Security Test, Fake Boarding Passes (35:58–39:13)

A reporter successfully bypassed TSA security using a fake home-printed boarding pass while carrying the components of gunpowder (charcoal, sulfur, and saltpeter) in clearly labeled bottles. Despite the presence of these materials, security agents were more concerned with a pan flute in her luggage. The segment criticizes the effectiveness of TSA swabbing procedures and general security protocols.

Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [gunpowder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gunpowder.md), saltpeter, [boarding pass](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boarding-pass.md), [security breach](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security-breach.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/15.md)

### 16. CIA Kids Page, Code Breaking Games (39:13–41:13)

The CIA maintains a website for children featuring games, puzzles, and code-breaking challenges. The hosts jokingly compare the site to the movie "The Last Starfighter," suggesting it is a tool to identify and recruit child prodigies. Concerns are raised about the ethics of targeting children for intelligence-related activities.

Keywords: [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), last starfighter, code breaking, [recruitment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recruitment.md), [trojan horse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trojan-horse.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Gina Smith CIA Story, Economic Hitman Disinformation (41:14–43:30)

An anecdote describes how the CIA allegedly attempted to place reporter Gina Smith in a high-paying newspaper job to serve as a conduit for disinformation. The discussion extends to the book "Confessions of an Economic Hitman" and how to identify "stooge" journalists by analyzing their past work and consistent biases.

Keywords: [gina smith](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gina-smith.md), [disinformation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/disinformation.md), [economic hitman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-hitman.md), [journalists](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalists.md), [washington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-post.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Yelp Reviewer Strategy, Analyzing Archival Content (43:31–45:10)

A strategy for evaluating the reliability of online reviewers and journalists involves checking their historical archives to see if their tastes align with the reader's. Using Yelp as an example, the host explains how to verify a reviewer's credibility by comparing their past restaurant ratings to one's own known preferences.

Keywords: [yelp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yelp.md), [restaurant reviews](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/restaurant-reviews.md), archival research, [marketwatch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketwatch.md), [consumer advice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/consumer-advice.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Gaza Strip History, British Post-WWII Mandates (45:11–48:57)

The historical roots of the Gaza Strip conflict are traced back to the post-World War II era and the British role in drawing regional borders. The discussion covers the establishment of Israel as a refuge for Jewish survivors and the subsequent decades of territorial disputes. The current escalation is attributed to persistent missile fire and the lack of a clear diplomatic resolution.

Keywords: [gaza strip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gaza-strip.md), [israel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/israel.md), [palestine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/palestine.md), [world war ii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-war-ii.md), british mandate

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Obama Inauguration, Social Craziness and Economic Policy (48:57–50:43)

The upcoming inauguration of Barack Obama is characterized as a massive social event with numerous exclusive balls and "A-list" guest lists. Predictions are made that the administration will focus on "empty phraseology" and "endless campaign speeches" while attempting to stimulate the economy by printing a trillion dollars.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [inauguration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/inauguration.md), [stock market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stock-market.md), trillion dollar stimulus, campaign speeches

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/20.md)

### 21. UK Tracker Mortgages, LIBOR and Interest Rates (50:43–52:13)

In the United Kingdom, interest rates on savings accounts have dropped to 0.1%, falling below the rate of inflation. Banks are reportedly preventing "tracker mortgages"—which follow the LIBOR rate—from dropping further, despite contractual agreements. This move by financial institutions is criticized as a breach of contract that would likely lead to lawsuits in the United States.

Keywords: tracker mortgages, [libor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/libor.md), [inflation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/inflation.md), [interest rates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/interest-rates.md), [banking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/banking.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/21.md)

### 22. British Public Discontent, Whitehall Protest Threats (52:14–53:43)

A host recounts conversations with professional movers in London who expressed deep dissatisfaction with the current state of the UK government. One individual threatened to block Whitehall with his lorries within a year. The discussion compares the perceived passivity of the British public to the more frequent and aggressive protest culture in France.

Keywords: whitehall, cockney, movers, [protests](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/protests.md), [civil unrest](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/civil-unrest.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Jancis Robinson, Chateauneuf-du-Pape Wine Rankings (53:44–56:01)

Wine critic Jancis Robinson's recent rankings in the Financial Times are discussed, specifically her praise for various Chateauneuf-du-Pape labels. The hosts argue that the wine has become overpriced and trendy due to influence from critics like Robert Parker. They suggest there is a "sameness" to the variety that does not justify the $100+ price tags of high-ranked bottles.

Keywords: jancis robinson, chateauneuf-du-pape, [financial times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-times.md), robert parker, [wine tasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wine-tasting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/23.md)

### 24. San Francisco Dining, Chez Spencer and Fringale (56:01–57:29)

A review of recent dining experiences in San Francisco notes a decline in quality at Chez Spencer, attributed to a potential change in the kitchen staff. Conversely, the restaurant Fringale is mentioned as having a new chef who may have stabilized the menu. Plans are made to visit several locations during an upcoming trip to the city.

Keywords: chez spencer, [fringale](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fringale.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), chef changes, cuisine

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Peruvian Cuisine Trends, Chifa and Chop Suey (57:30–1:01:02)

The rise of trendy Peruvian restaurants in San Francisco is discussed, with a focus on "Chifa"—a fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisines. The host argues that Chifa is essentially a version of American Chop Suey, which evolved from Chinese railroad workers in the 19th century. Traditional Peruvian staples like the thousands of varieties of Andean potatoes are also highlighted.

Keywords: [peruvian food](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peruvian-food.md), chifa, chop suey, [potatoes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/potatoes.md), [andes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andes.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Jamie Oliver Controversy, Gordon Ramsay Scandal (1:01:02–1:03:26)

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver faced backlash for comparing the British diet unfavorably to that of slums in Soweto, South Africa. Meanwhile, Gordon Ramsay is embroiled in a tabloid scandal involving allegations of a long-term extramarital affair. The discussion reflects on the "roller coaster" nature of celebrity status and public image.

Keywords: [jamie oliver](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jamie-oliver.md), [gordon ramsay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gordon-ramsay.md), soweto, british diet, tabloid news

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Celebrity Big Brother, La Toya Jackson and Coolio (1:03:27–1:05:27)

The new season of "Celebrity Big Brother" in the UK features a cast including La Toya Jackson, rapper Coolio, and Vern Troyer (Mini-Me). The hosts discuss the plastic surgery of the Jackson family and the "kinky" reputation of some participants. The show is noted for its high viewership and the public's fascination with the private lives of minor celebrities.

Keywords: [celebrity big brother](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/celebrity-big-brother.md), la toya jackson, coolio, mini-me, vern troyer

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Michael Jackson Finances, Fergie Duchess of York (1:05:28–1:08:27)

Rumors regarding Michael Jackson's alleged bankruptcy are dismissed, with the hosts citing his massive royalty income and global assets. The conversation shifts to Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, and her career transitions from Jenny Craig spokesperson to reality TV star. Her "upper class air" is noted as a potential barrier to her popularity in the United States.

Keywords: [michael jackson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-jackson.md), neverland ranch, fergie, [duchess of york](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/duchess-of-york.md), [jenny craig](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jenny-craig.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Russia-Ukraine Gas Dispute, European Energy Security (1:08:27–1:09:22)

Russia has once again cut off the natural gas supply to Ukraine during freezing winter temperatures, a move that has historically impacted the broader European energy market. Reports indicate a 25% reduction in gas flow through the Ukrainian pipeline system. This event highlights Europe's dangerous dependency on Russian energy exports for home heating.

Keywords: [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [natural gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/natural-gas.md), [gazprom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gazprom.md), [energy crisis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/energy-crisis.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Senate Appointments, Caroline Kennedy and Quid Pro Quo (1:09:23–1:11:02)

The process of governors appointing senators to vacant seats—such as those of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton—is criticized as undemocratic. The potential appointment of Caroline Kennedy to the New York Senate seat is described as a "quid pro quo" for her family's support of Obama. Michael Bloomberg's endorsement of Kennedy is labeled as "political malpractice."

Keywords: [caroline kennedy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/caroline-kennedy.md), [senate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/senate.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [michael bloomberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-bloomberg.md), [rod blagojevich](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rod-blagojevich.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/30.md)

### 31. New York City Taxes, Two Million Dollar Tax Bill (1:11:07–1:13:42)

A host recounts receiving a fraudulent two-million-dollar tax bill from the City of New York despite not living there. The story illustrates the aggressive nature of New York's three-tiered tax system (city, state, and federal) and the high legal costs required to fight erroneous residency claims. The segment warns of the "enormous powers" held by municipal tax authorities.

Keywords: [manhattan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/manhattan.md), [income tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/income-tax.md), [tax bill](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-bill.md), [legal fees](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/legal-fees.md), [residency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/residency.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/31.md)

### 32. New York State Debt, Selling Public Assets (1:13:44–1:16:51)

New York Governor David Paterson is considering leasing or selling state assets—including the Tappan Zee Bridge, the state lottery, and public parks—to address a massive budget deficit. The municipal bond market has reportedly collapsed, leading to radical privatization proposals. The hosts jokingly suggest selling the entire state to Dubai investors to create a "Middle East crisis" reality show in New York.

Keywords: [municipal bonds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/municipal-bonds.md), tappan zee bridge, david paterson, [privatization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privatization.md), [dubai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dubai.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Skype Technical Limitations, Chinese Checkers Plugin (1:16:53–1:20:26)

A technical discussion explores the limitations of the Skype Mac client, specifically the difficulty in accessing a dial pad during active calls to enter passcodes for conference bridges. The Windows version of Skype is noted for having "extras" like Chinese Checkers and "Skylook" for Outlook integration. The hosts express skepticism about the stability of these third-party Skype plugins.

Keywords: [skype](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skype.md), mac vs windows, [voip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voip.md), [conference calls](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/conference-calls.md), plugins

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/33.md)

### 34. Channel Curry, Aggregated Media Feeds (1:20:28–1:22:01)

The launch of "ChannelCurry.com" is announced, providing a centralized hub for all of Adam Curry's media feeds, including Twitter updates and show notes. The site features a combined RSS feed and video windows. The hosts thank the listeners and contributors who helped build and maintain the site's infrastructure.

Keywords: channel curry, [rss feeds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rss-feeds.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [show notes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/show-notes.md), [web design](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/web-design.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/34.md)

### 35. Carbon Credit Farming, Airline Offsets and Scams (1:22:02–1:25:57)

A critical look at the carbon credit industry examines how Canadian farmers are paid to use "zero till" practices to fix carbon in the soil. The hosts discuss the "painless" $8 carbon offsets sold by airlines and question where that money actually goes. They brainstorm a potential business model involving buying cheap land in Washington state to plant trees for carbon credit resale.

Keywords: [carbon credits](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-credits.md), zero till farming, airline offsets, green channel, tree planting

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/35.md)

### 36. Carbon Credit Currency, Tree Absorption Math (1:25:58–1:30:30)

Research into the value of carbon credits reveals that a 25-year-old maple tree absorbs roughly 1.1 kilos of CO2 per year. Calculations suggest that 36 trees are needed to absorb one ton of CO2, making the actual cost of a legitimate credit quite high. The discussion references a New Zealand website featuring "Save the Planet" carbon credit banknotes, treating them as a speculative future currency.

Keywords: carbon currency, maple trees, co2 absorption, [new zealand](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-zealand.md), [al gore](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-gore.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/36.md)

### 37. Show Outro, Daily Source Code and Sign-off (1:30:31–1:31:48)

The hosts conclude the episode from their respective "Gitmo Nation" locations in London and Silicon Valley. They announce plans to integrate phone calls in future episodes and mention the possibility of increasing the frequency of the "Daily Source Code." The show ends with the standard "No Agenda" sign-off.

Keywords: [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md), [daily source code](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-source-code.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/64-carbon-credits-and-the-cia/chapter/37.md)

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