# Brand Snowden

> Political strategists weaponize the Ferguson protests for the 2014 midterms while Edward Snowden’s broken glasses become the latest tool in high-stakes international branding.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 643
- **Published:** 2014-08-14
- **Length:** 2h 54m
- **Topics:** Brand Snowden, Ferguson Riots, [Elizabeth Warren](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elizabeth-warren.md), ISIS Propaganda, [Marie Harf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marie-harf.md), Bioweaponry, [Geert Wilders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geert-wilders.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden

## About this episode

The Democratic Party is reportedly positioning Elizabeth Warren as a radical populist alternative to Hillary Clinton to secure the progressive base ahead of the 2014 midterms. This strategic maneuvering coincides with escalating unrest in Ferguson, Missouri, where Missouri State Senator Jamila Nasheed and activist Al Sharpton are accused of inflating racial narratives to drive voter turnout. The FAA's implementation of a no-fly zone over the protests further suggests a coordinated effort to control the media landscape and suppress independent reporting of the civil unrest.

In the Middle East, the rise of ISIS has triggered a wave of neoconservative war rhetoric from Senator John McCain and Senator Lindsey Graham, who claim the group poses an immediate threat to the American homeland. Despite CIA Director John Brennan previously dismissing the global caliphate as a feckless delusion, State Department spokespeople Marie Harf and Jen Psaki are struggling to define a clear military objective. Meanwhile, the emergence of Brand Snowden reveals a highly curated image of the whistleblower, specifically focusing on his trademark broken Burberry glasses as a tool for relatable hero iconography while he remains a fixture of international media conferences.

Technical failures at the National Passport Center have exposed the fragility of the Consular Consolidated Database, a system integrated with FBI tools that is nearly five years past its expiration date. In Canada, a surge of Indian migration following the election of Narendra Modi is reshaping local demographics in Victoria, where public needle disposal units signal a growing addiction crisis. The episode also features a breakdown of the Persian snap by George Clooney and a debunking of North Korean execution myths originally sourced from a Chinese satirical website.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/transcript.md.

### 1. Elizabeth Warren, Hillary Clinton, and Democratic Party Strategy (0:00–5:51)

Analysis of the Democratic Party's internal dynamics suggests Elizabeth Warren is being positioned as a radical liberal alternative to Hillary Clinton. A listener note from a "wingtip" elitist source claims Clinton is too cozy with Wall Street and lacks the populist appeal Warren generates among progressives and Occupy Wall Street supporters. The discussion highlights how gender and race are used as primary lenses for liberal voters, regardless of actual policy outcomes.

Keywords: [elizabeth warren](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elizabeth-warren.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [democratic party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democratic-party.md), wingtips, [income inequality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/income-inequality.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Elizabeth Warren Memes and the Science Belief System (6:05–8:13)

A comparison between Elizabeth Warren and Sarah Palin explores why Warren is favored by the media despite a perceived lack of original memes or catchphrases. The "I believe in science" slogan is critiqued as turning a methodology into a dogmatic belief system. References are made to Warren's "We Believe" speech at the Netroots Nation conference.

Keywords: [elizabeth warren](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elizabeth-warren.md), [sarah palin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarah-palin.md), [science](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/science.md), netroots, [memes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/memes.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Hotels.com Commercials and the Decline of Advertising Jingles (8:13–12:54)

A Hotels.com commercial featuring an elderly woman and a younger lover is criticized for being creepy and desperate. The evolution of marketing is traced back to the Apple 1984 commercial, which shifted the industry toward "mini-movies" rather than effective musical jingles. Successful branding examples like Empire Today and Kars4Kids are cited as proof that simple, repetitive jingles remain superior for brand recognition.

Keywords: hotels.com, booking.com, [apple](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple.md), [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), [jingles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jingles.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Ferguson Protests and Racial Narrative Manipulation (12:55–19:47)

The protests in Ferguson, Missouri, following the shooting of Michael Brown are analyzed as a potentially manufactured racial crisis designed to drive Democratic voter turnout for the 2014 midterms. Al Sharpton is characterized as a professional agitator and federal snitch. Missouri State Senator Jamila Nasheed is criticized for claiming Brown was killed "execution style" without evidence, contributing to a narrative of Black Americans being "under siege."

Keywords: [ferguson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ferguson.md), [michael brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-brown.md), [al sharpton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-sharpton.md), [missouri](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/missouri.md), [police state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/police-state.md), jamila nasheed

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Revolutionary Communist Party and St. Louis Riot History (19:48–21:51)

Bob Avakian and the Revolutionary Communist Party USA are identified as opportunistic groups exploiting the Ferguson unrest. Historical context is provided regarding the 1917 St. Louis race riots, which were among the first major documented riots in the U.S. and resulted in the destruction of East St. Louis. The discussion suggests that current looting and destruction follow a long-standing pattern of civil unrest in the region.

Keywords: bob avakian, revolutionary communist party, [st. louis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/st-louis.md), [race riots](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/race-riots.md), [marxism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marxism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Media Control and the 1917 Model T Shooting Anecdote (21:51–26:12)

The FAA's implementation of a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) over Ferguson is viewed as an attempt to control the media message by restricting news helicopters. A historical clip from 1970 describes the 1917 St. Louis riots starting after police in a black Model T Ford drove through neighborhoods shooting at residents, eventually leading to the death of two detectives.

Keywords: [notam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/notam.md), [ferguson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ferguson.md), [st. louis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/st-louis.md), model t, police detectives

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Political Strategy and Blue State Demographics (26:13–32:39)

A comparison between Oakland and Ferguson suggests that riots only occur where the Democratic Party needs to mobilize voters to gain a foothold. The strategy involves targeting states like Georgia and Texas for demographic shifts. The hosts argue that the lack of riots in deep-blue Oakland, despite police shootings, proves that civil unrest is a tool used primarily for political gain in contested Republican-held territories.

Keywords: [oakland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oakland.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [georgia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/georgia.md), [wendy davis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wendy-davis.md), [gerrymandering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gerrymandering.md), [midterm elections](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/midterm-elections.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Jamila Nasheed and the Election Crisis Team (32:39–38:10)

Missouri State Senator Jamila Nasheed is scrutinized for her role in the Ferguson narrative, with the hosts noting her position on the urban issues and redistricting committees. President Obama's decision to interrupt his Martha's Vineyard vacation to speak on Ferguson—while ignoring crises in Ukraine and the Middle East—is framed as a calculated move to protect Democratic seats in the House and Senate.

Keywords: jamila nasheed, missouri senate, ballotpedia, [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [martha's vineyard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/martha-s-vineyard.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Gay Games 2014 and the Segregation of Sports (38:10–44:16)

President Obama's video message welcoming athletes to the 2014 Gay Games in Cleveland and Akron is criticized as a step backward for equality. The hosts argue that segregating sports by sexual orientation is exclusionary and unnecessary given the participation of LGBT athletes in the mainstream Olympics. Corporate sponsorship from companies like Coca-Cola and Marriott is highlighted as the primary driver for the event.

Keywords: gay games, [cleveland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cleveland.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [lgbt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lgbt.md), [coca-cola](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/coca-cola.md), [segregation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/segregation.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Marie Harf, Jen Psaki, and State Department Rivalry (44:17–47:45)

State Department spokesperson Marie Harf is accused of attempting to undermine her colleague Jen Psaki to take over her position. A press briefing clip shows Harf defending Secretary of State John Kerry's stay at a sanctioned hotel in Burma by claiming hotels are exempt from personal sanctions. Harf's dismissive comment about Psaki potentially "stealing towels" is cited as evidence of internal friction.

Keywords: [marie harf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marie-harf.md), [jen psaki](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jen-psaki.md), [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [burma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/burma.md), [sanctions](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sanctions.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/10.md)

### 11. No Agenda Art and the Monument to Elbow Macaroni (47:46–51:47)

The hosts thank artist Martin JJ for the episode artwork and discuss the No Agenda Art Generator. A donation from a producer in University City, Missouri, mentions a local restaurant called Cheezology and a monument to elbow macaroni. The producer's note expresses concern over the "No Justice No Peace" meme being used by Al Sharpton to recruit "justice disciples" in the wake of the Michael Brown shooting.

Keywords: [no agenda art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-art.md), cheezology, university city, [missouri](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/missouri.md), [michael brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-brown.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Israel-Palestine Conflict and Behavioral Therapy for "Essentially" (51:48–55:04)

The Israel-Palestine conflict is framed as a partisan issue where progressives use "Free Palestine" as a tribal marker. The hosts also discuss a self-imposed behavioral therapy experiment using a buzzer to stop the over-use of the word "essentially." A brief mention is made of the Koch brothers' contributions to liberal causes like PBS.

Keywords: [israel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/israel.md), [palestine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/palestine.md), [progressives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/progressives.md), [koch brothers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/koch-brothers.md), behavioral therapy

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Daily Tech News Show and Cable Sports Scams (55:05–58:53)

A host recounts an appearance on Tom Merritt's Daily Tech News Show, which involved technical difficulties with Google Hangouts and Mac drivers. This leads to a discussion of the website "What You Pay For Sports," which exposes how cable subscribers pay nearly $80 a year for ESPN through carriage fees regardless of whether they watch sports.

Keywords: [tom merritt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-merritt.md), [daily tech news show](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-tech-news-show.md), [espn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/espn.md), [cable tv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cable-tv.md), [carriage fees](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carriage-fees.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Donor Acknowledgments and Scotch Recommendations (58:53–1:04:51)

The hosts read donations from listeners in Massachusetts, California, and Quebec. In response to a request for an affordable scotch recommendation, John Dvorak suggests Macallan 12-year-old as a high-quality starter option, noting that Macallan 18 is smoother but significantly more expensive. A humorous anecdote involves "Miss Mickey" drinking the Macallan and leaving the host with Jack Daniels.

Keywords: macallan 12, laphroaig 30, pittsfield, gatineau, [scotch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scotch.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Daily Tech News Show Promotion and the NA33 Car (1:04:52–1:07:26)

Promotion of the 10th anniversary of the Daily Source Code and an appearance on Tom Merritt's show. A producer from Nabone, Indiana, is highlighted for his "NA33" themed car, featuring No Agenda license plates and "Adios Mofo" stickers. The hosts encourage listeners to propagate the formula and support the show via Dvorak.org.

Keywords: [tom merritt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-merritt.md), [daily tech news show](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-tech-news-show.md), nabone, [indiana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/indiana.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Media-Induced Depression and Sean Hannity's Agenda (1:07:30–1:12:57)

A New York Magazine article discusses how constant exposure to cable news causes clinical depression. Sean Hannity is criticized as a Republican "stooge" and the analog to Al Sharpton. A clip from Hannity's show regarding ISIS and the "convert or die" ultimatum is analyzed, with a guest clarifying that Christians are often allowed to stay and pay taxes, unlike the Yazidis.

Keywords: [sean hannity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-hannity.md), [new york magazine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-magazine.md), [depression](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/depression.md), [islam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/islam.md), [yazidis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yazidis.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Yazidi Religion and the "Devil Worshipper" Misconception (1:12:58–1:16:58)

The Yazidi people, currently trapped on a mountain in Iraq, are clarified to be a Kurdish group with a religion linked to Zoroastrianism and Sufi Islam, rather than being Christians as some media outlets imply. They are considered apostates by Sunnis. The hosts debunk the narrative that the U.S. is only intervening to save Christians, noting the Yazidis' distinct cultural and religious identity in the Nineveh province.

Keywords: [yazidis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yazidis.md), zoroastrianism, sufism, nineveh, [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/17.md)

### 18. ISIS Atrocity Claims and Statistical Exaggerations (1:16:58–1:21:05)

Sean Hannity's claims of children being "cut in half" and "heads on posts" are scrutinized for lack of evidence. While a guest on Hannity's show confirms a humanitarian crisis involving starvation and thirst, he does not corroborate the specific gore claims. The hosts also perform "math on the fly" to debunk a claim of 40,000 people being massacred, suggesting the actual numbers are significantly lower.

Keywords: [sean hannity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sean-hannity.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), decapitation, [genocide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/genocide.md), [humanitarian crisis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/humanitarian-crisis.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/18.md)

### 19. CIA Director John Brennan on the Islamic Caliphate (1:21:06–1:23:33)

A 2011 clip of CIA Director John Brennan is played, in which he dismisses the idea of a global Islamic caliphate as a "feckless delusion." The hosts agree with Brennan's assessment that these groups should not be elevated into something larger than they are. Sean Hannity is criticized for using the clip to paint Brennan as out of touch, despite the hosts finding Brennan's original logic sound.

Keywords: [john brennan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-brennan.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [caliphate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/caliphate.md), [al qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Neoconservative War Rhetoric and the ISIS Threat (1:23:33–1:27:22)

Fred Kagan and Senator Lindsey Graham are criticized for promoting fear-based rhetoric regarding ISIS. Kagan claims ISIS has acquired radioactive materials for a "dirty bomb," while Graham asserts that ISIS represents a direct threat to the American homeland. The hosts characterize this as "terrorism of the highest degree" enacted by politicians to justify further military intervention.

Keywords: fred kagan, [lindsey graham](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lindsey-graham.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [dirty bomb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dirty-bomb.md), [neoconservatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neoconservatives.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/20.md)

### 21. John McCain and the "See You in New York" Meme (1:27:22–1:32:19)

Senator John McCain and CNN analyst Bob Baer discuss the threat of ISIS fighters with American passports returning to the U.S. McCain cites a quote from ISIS leader Baghdadi—"See you in New York"—as proof of an impending attack. Baer also mentions unconfirmed reports of ISIS members crossing the Mexican border. The hosts dismiss these claims as "horrible propaganda" designed to terrorize the public.

Keywords: [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [anderson cooper](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anderson-cooper.md), [bob baer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-baer.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), mexican border

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Marie Harf on the Strategy to Defeat ISIS (1:32:19–1:34:56)

State Department spokesperson Marie Harf struggles to define the U.S. goal regarding ISIS during a press briefing. When asked if the goal is to "defeat" the group, she offers vague generalities about containing the threat and preventing the group from taking more territory like Erbil or Baghdad. The hosts label her response as "bullshit" and a "steaming pile" of generalities.

Keywords: [marie harf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marie-harf.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [baghdad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/baghdad.md), [erbil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/erbil.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/22.md)

### 23. John Kerry and the Iconic Severed Head Photo (1:34:56–1:38:59)

Secretary of State John Kerry describes a "grotesque" photograph of a seven-year-old child holding a severed head as "iconic" and "stomach-turning." The hosts argue that the photo is being used as a psychological tool to create empathy and fear in parents. They suggest the image is a calculated piece of propaganda designed to justify military action by focusing on "jobs, healthcare, and education" for the region.

Keywords: [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Khaled Sharouf and the Australian Terrorist "Class Clown" (1:39:00–1:43:22)

An Australian news report deconstructs the background of Khaled Sharouf, the man whose son was pictured holding a severed head. Sharouf is described by a former barrister as a "pathetic figure" and a "class clown" with a history of drug abuse and mental illness. His previous terrorism conviction involved stealing clocks and batteries from a Big W store, leading the hosts to question the credibility of his "master terrorist" persona.

Keywords: khaled sharouf, [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [sydney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sydney.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Social Media Selfies and the Manipulation of Reality (1:43:22–1:46:07)

The hosts discuss how social media users manipulate their own reality through filtered selfies and "living a lie." They argue that this habit makes the public more susceptible to manipulated media propaganda. A brief mention is made of Ryan Block's comments regarding the hosts' age and relevance.

Keywords: [selfies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/selfies.md), [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [filters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/filters.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [ryan block](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ryan-block.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Guess the Spokeshole: Susan Rice and Coca-Cola (1:46:09–1:49:49)

In a game of "Guess the Spokeshole," a clip is played of National Security Advisor Susan Rice praising Coca-Cola's investment in Africa. The hosts identify Rice by her cadence and criticize her for "kissing Coca-Cola's butt." They note her transition from UN spokesperson to National Security Advisor after her Secretary of State nomination was blocked.

Keywords: [susan rice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/susan-rice.md), [coca-cola](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/coca-cola.md), [africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/africa.md), [national security advisor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-security-advisor.md), [madeline albright](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/madeline-albright.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Social Media as an International Health Disaster (1:49:50–1:53:11)

Social media is characterized as an "international health disaster" that exacerbates gossip and narcissism. The hosts note that the terminology used—such as "viral"—mirrors that of a pandemic. An anecdote is shared about a woman who aggressively forces people into selfies, highlighting the intrusive and soul-chipping nature of modern digital interactions.

Keywords: [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md), [world health organization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-health-organization.md), [viral](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/viral.md), [narcissism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/narcissism.md), [selfies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/selfies.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/27.md)

### 28. The Illness of Social Inclusion and the Head on a Stick (1:53:12–1:57:12)

The hosts explore the psychological impact of seeing friends post photos of gatherings where one was excluded. They compare modern social media tagging to the indigenous belief that photographs steal the soul. A humorous reference is made to a "John Dvorak head on a stick" used for photos in Detroit as a way to simulate presence.

Keywords: [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md), [narcissism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/narcissism.md), [detroit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/detroit.md), [photoshop](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/photoshop.md), indigenous tribes

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Brandon Scott's Motorcycle Accident and NPR's Finances (1:57:12–2:00:29)

Producer Brandon Scott shares a story of surviving an 11-day coma after hitting a 250-pound doe on his motorcycle. Separately, a clip of former NPR head Vivian Schiller is played, where she admits that "underwriting" is just another word for advertising, confirming that public radio relies on corporate sponsorship despite its non-commercial branding.

Keywords: brandon scott, [motorcycle accident](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/motorcycle-accident.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [pbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs.md), [vivian schiller](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vivian-schiller.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Birthday Shout-outs and the Segway CEO Death (2:00:31–2:05:09)

The hosts read birthday wishes and donations from listeners in Oregon, Colorado, and Australia. A correction is made regarding the Segway: while the inventor Dean Kamen is alive, the CEO of the company famously died after riding a Segway off a cliff. The hosts advise a listener's daughter to avoid any vehicle with two wheels or less.

Keywords: [damascus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/damascus.md), [oregon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oregon.md), [brisbane](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brisbane.md), [segway](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/segway.md), dean kamen

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Final Donations and the "Jobs" Karma Shot (2:05:09–2:08:33)

A final round of donations is read from listeners across the U.S. and Australia. The hosts acknowledge the lower volume of donations for this specific show and provide "karma shots" for jobs and birthdays. They announce the next show will be broadcast from Manhattan, New York.

Keywords: [phoenix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/phoenix.md), [arlington](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/arlington.md), [minnesota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/minnesota.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), [oakland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oakland.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/31.md)

### 32. Edward Snowden's Broken Burberry Glasses and Brand Iconography (2:08:34–2:13:20)

The Wired magazine cover featuring Edward Snowden is analyzed, specifically focusing on his "trademark" broken Burberry glasses. The hosts argue that the missing nose pad is a deliberate branding choice to create a "relatable hero" icon, noting that Snowden is seen without glasses in Moscow and could easily have them fixed. This "Brand Snowden" development is viewed with high suspicion.

Keywords: [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [wired magazine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wired-magazine.md), burberry, [moscow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moscow.md), [branding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/branding.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Financial Logistics of Edward Snowden and International Transfers (2:13:21–2:15:58)

The hosts question how Edward Snowden funds his life in Russia, given the extreme difficulty of international bank transfers. A host shares a personal story of a bank blocking a transfer to the Netherlands for a birthday party under "terrorism" suspicion. They conclude that someone must be managing "Brand Snowden" and paying for hotel rooms and legal fees through non-traditional channels.

Keywords: [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [bank transfers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bank-transfers.md), fraud protection, [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/33.md)

### 34. The Snowden "Content" Mission and CIA-NSA Rivalry (2:15:58–2:21:26)

The Snowden leaks are framed as a potential mission to end the outsourcing of the intelligence community, which benefits the CIA over the NSA. The hosts argue that the information released—mostly PowerPoint slides with missing pages—is relatively innocuous. Snowden is now characterized as "content" for media conferences and Google Hangouts rather than a genuine whistleblower.

Keywords: [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [outsourcing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/outsourcing.md), [wired magazine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wired-magazine.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/34.md)

### 35. Antidepressants, Suicide, and Pharmaceutical Advertising (2:21:30–2:26:53)

The hosts discuss the link between antidepressant medication and suicide, suggesting that the drugs provide the "guts" to carry out the act. They criticize the pharmaceutical industry for prioritizing "follow-up sales" over cures, such as antibiotics. The U.S. is noted as one of the few countries allowing direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical advertising on television, which the hosts claim corrupts the doctor-patient relationship.

Keywords: [antidepressants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/antidepressants.md), [suicide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suicide.md), [pfizer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pfizer.md), [lipitor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lipitor.md), [pharmaceutical industry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pharmaceutical-industry.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/35.md)

### 36. CDC Director Tom Frieden on "Intentionally Created" Infections (2:26:53–2:30:00)

CDC Director Tom Frieden is caught on clip mentioning "intentionally created infections" as a real threat during a hearing. The hosts highlight this "bomb" as a rare admission of bioweaponry or laboratory-developed diseases. The comment was made in the context of Ebola and other emerging infections, but Frieden did not elaborate on who is creating them.

Keywords: [tom frieden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-frieden.md), [cdc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cdc.md), [ebola](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ebola.md), [fort detrick](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fort-detrick.md), [bioweapons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bioweapons.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/36.md)

### 37. Consular Consolidated Database Outage and FBI Integration (2:30:01–2:32:39)

An insider at the National Passport Center provides details on the Consular Consolidated Database (CCD) outage. The system, which is 14 years into a 10-year life cycle, integrates multiple programs including FBI law enforcement tools. The backlog in visa and passport applications is attributed to the failure of this aging infrastructure and the "games" played with government contracts.

Keywords: ccd, [visa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/visa.md), [passport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/passport.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/37.md)

### 38. Canadian Border Control and Needle Disposal Units (2:32:41–2:35:49)

A host describes a recent trip to Victoria, Canada, noting that passport control for foot traffic on boats felt less rigorous than in the past. Observations in Victoria included "needle recycling" boxes on telephone poles in the middle of town, suggesting a significant public drug addiction issue in the city.

Keywords: [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md), [victoria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/victoria.md), [passport control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/passport-control.md), needle disposal, [drug addiction](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drug-addiction.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/38.md)

### 39. Indian Migration to Canada and the "Modi" Factor (2:35:51–2:38:29)

A sudden influx of Indian culture in Canada is noted, including Hindu radio stations and Bollywood TV channels. The hosts speculate that "smart money" is leaving India following the election of Narendra Modi. They mention that Canada has historically sold citizenships for around $250,000, a program previously popular with Hong Kong residents.

Keywords: [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md), [india](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/india.md), [narendra modi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/narendra-modi.md), [bollywood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bollywood.md), [citizenship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/citizenship.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/39.md)

### 40. Pussy Riot in House of Cards and Iraqi Puppet Governments (2:38:30–2:40:50)

Pussy Riot activists are set to appear in the new season of House of Cards, which the hosts view as anti-Putin propaganda. In Iraq, Haider al-Abadi has been named the new puppet leader, though Nouri al-Maliki is refusing to step down. Al-Abadi, educated in Britain, is described as a potential shill for Iran.

Keywords: [pussy riot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pussy-riot.md), [house of cards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/house-of-cards.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), haider al-abadi, [nouri al-maliki](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nouri-al-maliki.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/40.md)

### 41. George Clooney, the CIA, and the Persian Snap (2:40:51–2:46:13)

George Clooney is accused of being a CIA asset due to his political involvement and his fiancée Amal Alamuddin's high-profile legal work. A clip from Voice of America shows Clooney accidentally suggesting Iran is becoming "integrated into the United States." The hosts also discuss the "Persian snap" (Beshkan), a finger-snapping technique Clooney reportedly knows.

Keywords: [george clooney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-clooney.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [amal alamuddin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amal-alamuddin.md), persian snap

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/41.md)

### 42. European Deflation and Geert Wilders' ISIS Comments (2:46:13–2:48:35)

Geert Wilders is calling for military intervention against ISIS demonstrators in the Netherlands. Meanwhile, economic data shows Italy's GDP is shrinking and Germany is facing potential deflation. The European Central Bank is reportedly fighting this with negative interest rates and quantitative easing, leading to speculation about future conflict in Europe.

Keywords: [geert wilders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geert-wilders.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [deflation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deflation.md), [ecb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ecb.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/42.md)

### 43. North Korea Myths and the "Onion" Source Error (2:48:35–2:54:53)

Joseph Terwilliger, who accompanied Dennis Rodman to North Korea, reveals on Finnish radio that many Western media stories about Kim Jong-un are false. He confirms that the "executed" ex-girlfriend is alive and that many reports originated from a Chinese version of The Onion. The hosts use this to illustrate how mainstream networks run with unverified rumors about North Korea without evidence.

Keywords: [north korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-korea.md), [kim jong-un](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kim-jong-un.md), [dennis rodman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dennis-rodman.md), joseph terwilliger, [the onion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-onion.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/643-brand-snowden/chapter/43.md)

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