# Q-Burn > A deep dive into state-sanctioned propaganda and the technical mechanics of digital decay as the guardians of reality reunite in the San Francisco FEMA region. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 654 - **Published:** 2014-09-21 - **Length:** 2h 58m - **Topics:** Smith-Mundt, [Gamergate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gamergate.md), Q-burn, ISIL vs ISIS, Climate March, Dassault Rafale, [BART](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bart.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn ## About this episode Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak reunite in the San Francisco FEMA region to analyze the legal implications of the Smith-Mundt Act revocation, which now permits the U.S. government to direct propaganda at domestic audiences. The hosts examine how this legislative shift coincides with the rise of Involuntary Social Network Disorder, a behavioral trend exemplified by JetBlue passengers prioritizing selfies during emergency landings. From their mobile studio, they break down the technical and social decay of the digital era, contrasting the fragility of modern social media archives with the historical permanence of the Gutenberg press. International tensions take center stage as the French military releases high-definition airstrike footage that doubles as a marketing reel for Dassault Rafale fighter jets. In the Middle East, the administration of Barack Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry push the term ISIL while mainstream media outlets stick to ISIS, signaling a linguistic power struggle. Meanwhile, attorney Alan Dershowitz advocates for constitutional adaptations to allow targeted killings and bypass due process for suspected terrorists. The hosts also scrutinize the Scottish Independence Referendum results, suggesting Prime Minister David Cameron utilized the vote to marginalize the Labour Party through strategic devolution. Technical nostalgia surfaces as Adam Curry explains the mechanics of Q-burn on vinyl records during a deep dive into radio history. The duo critiques the technical failures of Chuck Todd on the redesigned Meet The Press and mocks the corporate-funded grassroots optics of the People's Climate March. The episode concludes with a look at the power-sharing deal in Afghanistan and the failure of Kim Dotcom's political movement in New Zealand. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/transcript.md. ### 1. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak, San Francisco FEMA Region Reunion (0:00–5:45) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the show from San Francisco, noting the rare occurrence of both "guardians of reality" being in the same FEMA region. Curry describes his mobile studio setup and technical difficulties involving a Netgear router and a Freedom Pop MiFi device. The hosts discuss the convenience of mobile hotspots versus phone tethering. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), fema region, [netgear](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netgear.md), [freedom pop](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freedom-pop.md), [mifi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mifi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Podshow 10-Year Reunion, Dogpatch Saloon San Francisco (5:45–9:55) Adam Curry recounts his disappointment with the Podshow 10-year reunion held at the Dogpatch Saloon in San Francisco. While he enjoyed seeing former colleagues like Michael Butler and Chris Beshears, he notes that many people did not attend due to a lack of Facebook presence. The hosts reflect on their inability to have a normal dinner conversation without saving "content" for the podcast. Keywords: [podshow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podshow.md), dogpatch saloon, [michael butler](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-butler.md), chris beshears, [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [lexus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lexus.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Smith-Mundt Act Revocation, Government Propaganda Legalization (9:55–11:47) The hosts discuss the revocation of the Smith-Mundt Act via the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2013. They argue this change allows the United States government to legally direct propaganda at domestic audiences. This legal shift is presented as a fundamental change in how news and government messaging reach the American public. Keywords: [smith-mundt act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smith-mundt-act.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [ndaa 2013](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ndaa-2013.md), [department of state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-state.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Involuntary Social Network Disorder, JetBlue Emergency Landing Selfies (11:47–14:06) A listener named Candace is credited with naming a new condition: Involuntary Social Network Disorder (ISND). The hosts define this as the compulsive need to use smartphones and social media regardless of the situation. They cite passengers taking selfies during a smoke-filled JetBlue emergency landing as a primary symptom of this narcissistic behavioral trend. Keywords: involuntary social network disorder, isnd, [jetblue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jetblue.md), [selfies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/selfies.md), [millennials](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/millennials.md), [narcissism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/narcissism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Gamergate, Social Justice Warriors, Progressive Stack Concept (14:08–21:45) The discussion shifts to Gamergate and the influence of "Social Justice Warriors" (SJWs) in gaming journalism. A clip from an Occupy Wall Street assembly illustrates the "progressive stack," a system where marginalized groups are prioritized in speaking orders while "privileged" white males are told to step back. The hosts link these ideologies to the narcissism of the millennial generation. Keywords: [gamergate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gamergate.md), [social justice warriors](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-justice-warriors.md), progressive stack, [occupy wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/occupy-wall-street.md), [millennials](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/millennials.md), [political correctness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/political-correctness.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Zbigniew Brzezinski Quote, Surveillance and Population Control (21:46–22:46) John C. Dvorak reads a quote attributed to Zbigniew Brzezinski regarding the use of computers for deliberate programming of human behavior and continuous surveillance. The quote suggests a future of massive depression and deliberate population reduction. The hosts express slight skepticism regarding the absolute authenticity of the specific phrasing but agree with the sentiment. Keywords: [zbigniew brzezinski](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zbigniew-brzezinski.md), [national security council](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-security-council.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md), [fascism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fascism.md), [population control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/population-control.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Steve Jobs, Silicon Valley Tech Bans, WALL-E Movie Analysis (22:46–24:27) Adam Curry discusses how Steve Jobs and other Silicon Valley CEOs reportedly restricted their own children's use of technology. Curry reflects on the 2008 Pixar film WALL-E as a "message from the grave" from Jobs about the dangers of technological dependency. The film is characterized as a warning about a future where humans are physically and socially degraded by screens. Keywords: [steve jobs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/steve-jobs.md), wall-e, [pixar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pixar.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [ipad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipad.md), technology addiction [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Union Square Buskers, Sarah Austin Selfie, Lewd Birthday Cakes (24:28–27:34) The hosts describe the atmosphere at Union Square in San Francisco, noting that tourists prefer taking selfies to tipping street performers like saxophonist Justin Ward. They recount an interaction with Sarah Austin at the reunion and a birthday celebration for "Matt" involving a lewdly decorated cake. They criticize the "paparazzi" behavior of guests who filmed the cake rather than experiencing the moment. Keywords: [union square](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/union-square.md), justin ward, [sarah austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarah-austin.md), matt cassamassina, [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [selfies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/selfies.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Social Media History, LiveJournal to MySpace Transition, Digital Decay (27:35–32:07) The conversation traces the evolution of social media from LiveJournal to MySpace and the rise of "self-adulation" through animated GIFs and diary blogs. They discuss the fragility of digital archives, noting that many photos hosted on defunct services like TwitPic or stored in proprietary formats like iPhoto may be lost forever. They compare the current internet era to the slow societal shift following the Gutenberg press. Keywords: [livejournal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/livejournal.md), [myspace](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/myspace.md), [library of congress](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/library-of-congress.md), twitpic, [digital archiving](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/digital-archiving.md), gutenberg [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/9.md) ### 10. No Agenda Value-for-Value Model, Executive Producer Credits (32:07–36:17) Adam and John explain the "Value-for-Value" funding model, which rejects traditional advertising to avoid corporate and audience censorship. They credit high-tier donors, including Grand Duke David Foley and Sir Jimmy Gouts. A special promotion is mentioned where a "6666" donation triggers a free "holobook" gift from Sir Jimmy Gouts. Keywords: [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [david foley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-foley.md), jimmy gouts, holobook, [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/producers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Lady Rosie of Kent, Jihadi Jim, Scottish Independence Mention (36:18–39:23) The hosts read a donation note from Lady Rosie of Kent (Rosalind Furness), who uses the segment to send a message to a friend in Hong Kong. The note humorously speculates that her friend's silence might mean he has joined ISIS as "Jihadi Jim." The segment concludes with a "Shut up slave" jingle and a brief mention of the Scottish independence vote. Keywords: rosalind furness, turnbridge wells, james dwyer, [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [scotland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scotland.md), [referendum](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/referendum.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Radio History, Turntable Mechanics, Q-Burn Definition (39:24–42:34) Adam Curry shares a technical history of radio broadcasting, explaining how DJs used "quick start" turntables and slip mats to queue records. He defines "Q-burn" as the audible wear and tear at the beginning of a vinyl record caused by repeated queuing with a diamond needle. This anecdote is prompted by a gift of digitized 12-inch import records from his former colleagues at Decibel Radio. Keywords: [radio broadcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radio-broadcasting.md), turntables, slip mats, q-burn, [vinyl records](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vinyl-records.md), decibel radio [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Scottish Independence Referendum, David Cameron Political Strategy (42:35–52:35) The hosts analyze the results of the Scottish Independence Referendum. They discuss a theory from listener Owen McGinty suggesting the vote was a "win-win" for Prime Minister David Cameron. By offering devolution, Cameron effectively marginalized the Labour Party's influence in England, as most Labour MPs are from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. They also touch on the potential for voter fraud in the "No" victory. Keywords: [scotland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scotland.md), [referendum](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/referendum.md), [david cameron](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-cameron.md), [alex salmond](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alex-salmond.md), [ukip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukip.md), [nigel farage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nigel-farage.md), [labour party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/labour-party.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/13.md) ### 14. New Zealand Election, Kim Dotcom, Snowden and Greenwald Appearance (52:44–1:03:43) The hosts critique the "Moment of Truth" event in New Zealand organized by Kim Dotcom, featuring Edward Snowden and Glenn Greenwald via video link. They argue the event was a political failure, as Dotcom's Mana Party lost its only seat in Parliament while Prime Minister John Key won a massive victory. The hosts characterize the participants as arrogant and out of touch with average New Zealand voters. Keywords: [new zealand](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-zealand.md), [kim dotcom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kim-dotcom.md), [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [glenn greenwald](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-greenwald.md), [julian assange](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julian-assange.md), [john key](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-key.md), mana party [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/14.md) ### 15. NFL Domestic Violence, BART Prohibition Orders, Gender Dynamics (1:03:44–1:09:18) A discussion on the surge of domestic violence reporting in the NFL leads to a report on BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) police seeking expanded powers to issue prohibition orders. The hosts discuss the cultural shift in how domestic abuse is handled and the under-reporting of violence committed by women against men. John Dvorak shares a controversial anecdote about his wife's views on the subject. Keywords: [nfl](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nfl.md), [domestic violence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/domestic-violence.md), [bart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bart.md), [ray rice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ray-rice.md), protective orders, [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Violence Against Women Act, Political Timing, Republican Stereotypes (1:09:20–1:15:00) The hosts analyze the timing of the Ray Rice elevator tape release, noting it coincided with the anniversary of President Obama's reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act. They suggest the media narrative is being shaped to paint Republicans as "wife beaters" to secure the female vote for Democrats. Adam Curry recounts a conversation with a "database lesbian" in San Francisco about gun ownership in Texas. Keywords: [violence against women act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/violence-against-women-act.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [tmz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tmz.md), [republicans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republicans.md), [democrats](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democrats.md), [gun rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gun-rights.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Meet The Press Redesign, Chuck Todd Moderation Errors (1:15:00–1:21:25) John C. Dvorak critiques the new format of NBC's *Meet The Press* under moderator Chuck Todd. He describes technical glitches, including failed clip rollouts and poor camera angles that showed Todd's pen blocking other guests' faces. Dvorak also notes a moment where Admiral Mike Mullen appeared to condescend to Todd, calling him "John" instead of Chuck. Keywords: [meet the press](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meet-the-press.md), [chuck todd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chuck-todd.md), [nbc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc-news.md), [mike mullen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-mullen.md), [television production](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/television-production.md), broadcast errors [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Naomi Klein, Carbon Tracker, Climate Change Budgeting (1:21:26–1:28:08) The hosts play clips of author Naomi Klein and the Director of the OMB discussing the "carbon bubble" and the financial cost of "climate denial." They mock the "climate math" provided by Carbon Tracker, which claims the world has a strict carbon budget to keep warming under 2 degrees Celsius. The OMB director's statement that climate denial is "fiscally foolish" is labeled a "sackable offense" by the hosts. Keywords: [naomi klein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/naomi-klein.md), carbon tracker, [350.org](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/350-org.md), [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), [omb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/omb.md), climate preparedness [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/18.md) ### 19. People's Climate March, Purpose.com, NGO Funding Models (1:28:08–1:36:50) Adam Curry investigates the organizations behind the People's Climate March, specifically focusing on "Purpose.com" and "Avaaz." He describes a sophisticated business model where for-profit B-corps and non-profit 501(c)(4) agencies work together to launch social movements. Curry argues these movements are funded by major foundations like Rockefeller to serve corporate interests under the guise of grassroots activism. Keywords: people's climate march, purpose.com, avaaz, jeremy hymans, [rockefeller foundation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rockefeller-foundation.md), [501c4](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/501c4.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Zug Switzerland, Disruption Movie, Corporate Social Media Leverage (1:36:51–1:42:30) The hosts note that many international NGOs are headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, a known tax haven. They discuss the movie *Disruption*, featuring Van Jones, as a recruitment tool for climate activism. They also examine "Meatless Monday" as a marketing opportunity for large corporations like Dole and Morningstar to leverage social media for brand image. Keywords: [zug](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zug.md), [switzerland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/switzerland.md), [van jones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/van-jones.md), meatless monday, pr agencies, social media experts [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Gray is Green, The Poop Project, World of 7 Billion Contest (1:42:30–1:50:08) Adam Curry explores the "Partners" list of the People's Climate March, highlighting bizarre organizations like "The Poop Project" and "Gray is Green." He reviews a student video from the "World of 7 Billion" contest that depicts cow farts as a primary cause of climate change. The hosts characterize these educational resources as "pure propaganda" designed to guilt children. Keywords: gray is green, the poop project, population connection, [methane](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/methane.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [cows](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cows.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Racing for the Green, NGO Scam Strategy (1:50:09–1:55:36) Inspired by the climate NGOs they researched, the hosts jokingly brainstorm their own "scam" called "Racing for the Green." The plan involves guilting Formula One and NASCAR into paying "sustainability" fees to offset carbon emissions. They discuss the financial benefits of running a 501(c)(4) alongside a consulting B-corp to maximize personal revenue. Keywords: racing for the green, [formula one](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/formula-one.md), [circuit of the americas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/circuit-of-the-americas.md), [extortion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/extortion.md), [ngo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ngo.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Donor Thank You Segment, ITM Credits (1:55:37–2:02:19) The hosts read through a list of producers and donors who contributed to the show. Notable mentions include Audrey Symes, Daniel McDonald (who created kale book artwork), and Sir Rich Leiter. The segment includes various "sequential number" donations and "double nickel" contributions from the listener base. Keywords: audrey symes, daniel mcdonald, scott waldherr, rich leiter, [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [producers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/producers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Technical Interlude, Sonic.net, Birthday Announcements (2:02:20–2:05:17) While John Dvorak attempts to fix a peering issue with his Sonic.net internet connection, Adam Curry reads birthday announcements for listeners. Celebrants include Sir Keith Chamberlain (73), Rosalind Furness (41), and Paige Walden. The hosts struggle with technical lag and router settings during the transition. Keywords: [sonic.net](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sonic-net.md), keith chamberlain, rosalind furness, paige walden, [birthdays](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthdays.md), router reboot [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Oktoberfest in San Francisco, Munich Beer Statistics (2:05:19–2:08:01) The hosts revisit a debate from the previous night regarding the timing of Oktoberfest. While Dvorak argued it shouldn't be called Oktoberfest if it starts in September, Curry points out that the official Munich festival is a 16-day event that begins in late September. They recall seeing people in lederhosen driving through San Francisco. Keywords: oktoberfest, [munich](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/munich.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), lederhosen, [beer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/beer.md), septober [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/25.md) ### 26. UN Security Council, John Kerry, ISIL vs ISIS Terminology (2:08:01–2:15:53) The hosts review footage from a UN Security Council meeting on Iraq. They mock John Kerry's "authoritative" tone and the use of the term "ISIL" by the administration versus "ISIS" by the media. They highlight Kerry's inclusion of Iran as a potential partner in the "coalition of the willing" and criticize the "holistic approach" rhetoric used by Middle Eastern ministers. Keywords: [un security council](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/un-security-council.md), [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [isil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isil.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [bahrain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bahrain.md), [qatar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/qatar.md), [samantha power](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/samantha-power.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/26.md) ### 27. On the Media, George Washington University, CIA Influence (2:15:53–2:18:39) Adam Curry plays a clip from the NPR program *On the Media* featuring Mark Lynch from George Washington University. The clip discusses the linguistic battle over whether to call the militant group ISIS, ISIL, or IS. The hosts suggest that George Washington University is a front for intelligence agencies and that the media's refusal to use the President's preferred term (ISIL) shows a power struggle. Keywords: [on the media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/on-the-media.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), mark lynch, [george washington university](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-washington-university.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [linguistics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linguistics.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/27.md) ### 28. French Airstrikes in Iraq, Dassault Rafale Sales Pitch (2:18:39–2:21:17) The hosts analyze France's first airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Iraq. They argue the high-quality video released by the French military is essentially a "sales pitch" for the Dassault Rafale fighter jet. They suggest France is eager to demonstrate the jet's combat effectiveness to potential Middle Eastern buyers after years of struggling to export the aircraft. Keywords: [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md), rafale, dassault, [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md), [airstrikes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airstrikes.md), [military sales](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-sales.md), [abu dhabi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abu-dhabi.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/28.md) ### 29. ISIS Beheading Video Blueprint, Turkish Drama Comparison (2:21:18–2:24:54) Adam Curry highlights a discovery circulating online that compares ISIS beheading videos to a trailer for a Turkish drama series. The visual elements—including the orange jumpsuit, the desert setting, and the camera angles—are nearly identical. The hosts suggest the videos are produced on green screens using professional actors and costumes rather than being authentic field recordings. Keywords: [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [beheading](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/beheading.md), turkish drama, [green screen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-screen.md), orange jumpsuit, [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/29.md) ### 30. John Cantlie Video, The Young Turks, Propaganda Pilot (2:24:56–2:34:17) The hosts discuss a new video featuring British journalist John Cantlie, who is being held by ISIS. Unlike previous videos, Cantlie is seated at a desk and speaks directly to the camera, promising a "series of programs" to explain the "truth" about the Islamic State. The hosts criticize *The Young Turks* for not playing the full audio and suggest the production is a sophisticated propaganda pilot. Keywords: [john cantlie](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-cantlie.md), [james foley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-foley.md), [the young turks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-young-turks.md), [cenk uygur](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cenk-uygur.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [western media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/western-media.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Sponsor segment: OxiClean Commercial, Inappropriate Smiling (2:34:21–2:35:21) A brief critique of a new OxiClean laundry detergent commercial. The hosts note the "weird creepy smile" of the new spokesperson and suggest that being the "OxiClean guy" is a dangerous job, referencing the deaths of previous spokespeople like Billy Mays. Keywords: oxiclean, laundry detergent, [commercial](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/commercial.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md), stain fighter [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Alan Dershowitz, Tunnels of Terror, Constitutional Adaptation (2:35:22–2:45:15) The hosts play clips of attorney Alan Dershowitz discussing his book *Tunnels of Terror*. Dershowitz argues that the U.S. Constitution must "adapt" to the threat of ISIS, suggesting that due process should be bypassed for those "bragging" about terrorism. He also advocates for "targeted killings" and a presidential approval process for the use of torture, which the hosts find abhorrent and racist. Keywords: [alan dershowitz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alan-dershowitz.md), [hamas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hamas.md), [israel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/israel.md), [torture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/torture.md), [constitution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitution.md), [due process](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/due-process.md), [targeted killing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/targeted-killing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Syrian Kurdish Refugees, Turkey Border Crossing (2:45:15–2:47:49) A report from France 24 describes 60,000 Syrian Kurds fleeing Aleppo to the Turkish border to escape ISIS. Adam Curry mocks a specific refugee interviewed who complained about walking "5 or 10 kilometers," noting that such a distance is a standard jog for many people and hardly constitutes an epic trek across a continent. Keywords: syrian kurds, [aleppo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aleppo.md), [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [refugees](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/refugees.md), gallagher fenwick, [france 24](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france-24.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Netflix VPN Ban, Iranian Internet Censorship, Fred Campbell (2:47:51–2:54:23) The hosts discuss Netflix's efforts to ban VPNs to satisfy Hollywood's regional licensing requirements. They compare this to a report from Iran where 69% of youth use circumvention technology to bypass government filters. They also examine a claim by Fred Campbell of CBIT that Netflix intentionally slowed its own traffic to blame ISPs and push for net neutrality regulations. Keywords: [netflix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netflix.md), [vpn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vpn.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/censorship.md), fred campbell, [fcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fcc.md), [net neutrality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/net-neutrality.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Afghanistan Power-Sharing Deal, John Kerry Mediation, Sign-off (2:54:24–2:58:27) The show concludes with news of a power-sharing agreement in Afghanistan between presidential rivals Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, brokered by John Kerry. The hosts mock the "National Unity" government as a half-measure. Adam Curry and John Dvorak sign off from their respective locations in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Keywords: [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [ashraf ghani](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ashraf-ghani.md), [abdullah abdullah](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abdullah-abdullah.md), [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [election audit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-audit.md), [sign-off](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sign-off.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/654-q-burn/chapter/35.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/653-evil-layer-cake.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/655-network-of-death.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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