# Taboose

> A secret gold heist by the Dutch government and the militarization of Disney Junior highlight a world shifting toward centralized control and fortress mentalities.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 672
- **Published:** 2014-11-23
- **Length:** 3h 3m
- **Topics:** Gold Repatriation, Fortress North America, Jonathan Gruber, [Avian Flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/avian-flu.md), UKIP Victory, Uber Downgrade, [Vice Media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vice-media.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose

## About this episode

The Dutch government secretly repatriated 16 billion euros in gold from New York to the Netherlands, signaling a major shift in European financial sovereignty. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak analyze this clandestine move alongside the inauguration of the Single Supervisory Mechanism, which grants the European Central Bank unprecedented oversight of Eurozone banks. These maneuvers coincide with a massive avian flu outbreak in the Netherlands that has forced the culling of 200,000 chickens and a nationwide transport ban.

Senator John McCain led a delegation to the Halifax International Security Forum to pitch a Fortress North America strategy, while Vice President Joe Biden visited Turkey to negotiate ISIS containment with President Erdogan. In the United Kingdom, the UKIP party secured a second parliamentary seat as three men appeared in court for a suspected beheading plot. Meanwhile, MIT economist Jonathan Gruber faces backlash for his comments on American voter intelligence, and the Department of Homeland Security expands internal checkpoints 100 miles from the New Mexico border. Tech developments include the SPDY protocol rollout and a $20,000 Bitcoin donation to the OpenBSD project.

Adam Curry recounts a tense negotiation with Veronica Magazine over a reunion photo shoot for the show Countdown, eventually settling for Economy Comfort seating. John C. Dvorak shares a 1970s motorcycle story involving hypothermia and a failed attempt to pick up a hitchhiker near Lake Tahoe. The broadcast concludes with the traditional Curry family recitation of Psalm 121, a ritual performed whenever the homestead is vacated.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/transcript.md.

### 1. Amsterdam Lowlands, John C. Dvorak Travel Plans (0:00–3:49)

Adam Curry broadcasts from The Pipe in Amsterdam while John C. Dvorak prepares to travel north from Silicon Valley to Port Angeles. The hosts discuss the early start time of the show and the depressing, overcast winter weather currently affecting the Netherlands.

Keywords: [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [port angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/port-angeles.md), [utc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/utc.md), [skype](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skype.md), the pipe, [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Wagamama Restaurant, Polish Visa Issues in the Netherlands (3:50–6:20)

A visit to a Wagamama restaurant in southern Amsterdam reveals a staff primarily composed of Polish and Latvian immigrants. A conversation with a Polish server highlights frustrations regarding the United States visa waiver program and the difficulty Polish citizens face when attempting to visit family in America despite Poland's status as a NATO ally.

Keywords: wagamama, [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [poland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/poland.md), [visa waiver program](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/visa-waiver-program.md), [nato](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nato.md), [latvia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/latvia.md), pan-asian food

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Uber Experience, Austin Airport Transit (6:20–7:56)

A recent Uber trip to the Austin airport involved a messy minivan that appeared to be used as a primary residence by the driver. The experience serves as a contrast to typical professional car services, noting the "trashy" condition of the vehicle despite the driver's proficiency.

Keywords: [uber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uber.md), [austin airport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin-airport.md), [rideshare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rideshare.md), minivan, [transit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/transit.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/3.md)

### 4. TSA Pre-Check, Trusted Traveler Number Technicalities (7:57–10:14)

Technical issues with Delta Airlines prevented a TSA Pre-Check status from appearing on a home-printed boarding pass. Re-entering a Trusted Traveler Number at the airport desk successfully triggered the Pre-Check status, while a separate discussion notes that Southwest Airlines occasionally grants Pre-Check status to frequent flyers who have not completed the formal federal interview process.

Keywords: [tsa pre-check](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa-pre-check.md), [delta airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/delta-airlines.md), trusted traveler number, goes card, [southwest airlines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/southwest-airlines.md), [airport security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airport-security.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Airport Security, Microphone X-Ray Identification (10:15–11:42)

Carrying a Rode Procaster microphone through airport security often triggers manual bag searches because the device resembles a canister of explosives or a large adult toy on X-ray machines. An anecdote is shared regarding a former Spy Magazine editor who intentionally packed bags with adult toys to annoy security personnel.

Keywords: [rode procaster](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rode-procaster.md), [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [x-ray](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/x-ray.md), [explosives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/explosives.md), spy magazine, [dildos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dildos.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Sinclair Lewis, Babbit Novel Analysis (11:43–13:10)

The 1922 novel Babbit by Sinclair Lewis is examined as a study of the stereotypical American businessman living a life defined by social memes. The narrative follows a character who is perceived as a success by his peers but is viewed as a sympathetic loser by the reader.

Keywords: [sinclair lewis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sinclair-lewis.md), babbit, american businessman, 1920s literature, [memes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/memes.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Science of Survival, L. Ron Hubbard and Scientology (13:11–16:26)

A package from a No Agenda knight in Australia contained a copy of Science of Survival by L. Ron Hubbard along with a six-page handwritten letter. The book, written after Dianetics, focuses on human tonality and frequencies, prompting a discussion on the lost art of letter writing and the Church of Scientology's recruitment tactics.

Keywords: [l. ron hubbard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/l-ron-hubbard.md), science of survival, [scientology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scientology.md), [dianetics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dianetics.md), handwritten letters, [knights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knights.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Dutch Gold Reserves, Repatriation from New York (16:28–18:23)

The Dutch government recently admitted to secretly repatriating 16 billion euros worth of gold from New York to the Netherlands via ship. This move follows similar actions by Germany and Switzerland, leading to speculation about the future stability of gold prices.

Keywords: [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [gold reserves](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gold-reserves.md), [repatriation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/repatriation.md), [new york](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york.md), dutch bank, [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [switzerland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/switzerland.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Dutch Television, Electric Car Advertising Trends (18:24–19:12)

Observations of Dutch television reveal a high frequency of advertisements for board games and electric vehicles. The BMW i-series, including the i3 and i8, has a significant presence in the Netherlands, contrasting with the American-subsidized Tesla market.

Keywords: [tesla](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tesla.md), bmw i8, bmw i3, [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [glenn beck](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/glenn-beck.md), [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Credit Card Security, European Chip and Pin Failures (19:13–24:22)

American credit cards equipped with chips are failing to utilize the standard PIN security protocol in Europe, instead defaulting to a signature-based system. Furthermore, European point-of-sale terminals are offering dynamic currency conversion that applies unfavorable exchange rates to unsuspecting American travelers.

Keywords: [chip and pin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chip-and-pin.md), [credit cards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credit-cards.md), [exchange rates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/exchange-rates.md), [fraud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fraud.md), [starbucks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/starbucks.md), [apple pay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple-pay.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Avian Flu Outbreak, Dutch Poultry Culling (24:23–27:35)

A significant outbreak of avian flu in the Netherlands has resulted in the culling of over 200,000 chickens across multiple farms. Authorities have implemented a 72-hour transport ban on poultry, eggs, and manure to contain the virus, which has also been detected in Germany and the UK.

Keywords: [bird flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bird-flu.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [avian flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/avian-flu.md), [poultry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/poultry.md), [chickens](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chickens.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [agriculture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/agriculture.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Chicken Farming, Aggressive Behavior of Roosters (27:36–29:52)

A personal anecdote about keeping chickens deconstructs the "idyllic" image of farm life, noting that fresh eggs require time to congeal and that chickens are often aggressive, reptilian animals. The story highlights the difficulty of retrieving eggs from protective and pecking roosters.

Keywords: [chickens](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chickens.md), roosters, [farming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/farming.md), [eggs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eggs.md), [animal behavior](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/animal-behavior.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Veronica Magazine, Dutch Media Reunion Photo Shoot (29:52–33:05)

Veronica Magazine, a major Dutch lifestyle publication, invited Adam Curry to participate in a reunion photo shoot for former hosts of the show Countdown. The negotiation involved the magazine's reluctance to pay for premium airfare, eventually settling on "Economy Comfort" for the international flight.

Keywords: veronica magazine, [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [countdown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/countdown.md), [economy comfort](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy-comfort.md), [photo shoot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/photo-shoot.md), [media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/13.md)

### 14. No Agenda Art, Show 671 Dictator Artwork (33:07–35:33)

The hosts discuss the lack of new artwork submissions for the current episode, leading them to use an "evergreen" piece titled "Dictator" from the archives. They encourage listeners to continue submitting art to the show's gallery.

Keywords: [artwork](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/artwork.md), [podcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast.md), [creative commons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/creative-commons.md), [dictator](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dictator.md), evergreen box

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Aftermath Movie, Chris Penn and Tony Danza (35:33–39:46)

A No Agenda producer announces the release of the film Aftermath, featuring the final performance of Chris Penn alongside Tony Danza and Michael Anthony Hall. The movie is described as a gritty exploration of human devolution influenced by money and power, drawing comparisons to Reservoir Dogs.

Keywords: [aftermath](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aftermath.md), chris penn, tony danza, michael anthony hall, reservoir dogs, [independent film](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/independent-film.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/15.md)

### 16. No Agenda Donations, Knighting and Barony Ceremonies (39:47–46:20)

The hosts process several high-value donations, granting titles such as the Baron of South Orange County. Contributors request "karma" for various life events, including apartment hunting and relationship stability, while the hosts debate the rules of the No Agenda Peerage Court.

Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [barony](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barony.md), [orange county](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/orange-county.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), peerage court

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Kenya Bus Attack, Al-Shabaab Quran Recitation Test (46:20–48:26)

Al-Shabaab gunmen killed 28 people in northern Kenya after singling out victims who could not recite passages from the Quran. This event prompts a discussion on the ability of religious individuals to memorize scripture under pressure.

Keywords: [kenya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kenya.md), [al-shabaab](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-shabaab.md), [quran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/quran.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md), psalm 121, [france 24](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france-24.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Curry Family Traditions, Psalm 121 Ritual (48:27–50:32)

The Curry family maintains a tradition where the oldest grandchild recites Psalm 121 whenever the family departs from their homestead. The hosts discuss the ritualistic nature of this practice and its intersection with personal superstitions and obsessive-compulsive tendencies.

Keywords: psalm 121, family tradition, [prayer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prayer.md), [superstition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/superstition.md), [tourette's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tourette-s.md), [ocd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ocd.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/18.md)

### 19. UK Terror Plot, Beheading Allegations and Grey Tracksuits (50:32–52:36)

Three men appeared in a UK court charged with an imminent plot to behead a member of the public. The suspects, who were detained in armed raids, reportedly laughed and joked during the hearing while wearing standard police-issue grey tracksuits.

Keywords: westminster magistrates court, [old bailey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/old-bailey.md), beheading plot, high wycombe, [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md), grey tracksuits

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/19.md)

### 20. UKIP Election Victory, Mark Reckless and Geert Wilders (52:37–55:08)

The anti-EU UKIP party won its second seat in the British Parliament, a story that received significant coverage in the Netherlands due to parallels with Dutch politician Geert Wilders. The victory involved a former Conservative member switching sides to align with shifting voter sentiment.

Keywords: [ukip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukip.md), mark reckless, [british parliament](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/british-parliament.md), [geert wilders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geert-wilders.md), anti-eu, [local elections](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/local-elections.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/20.md)

### 21. European Banking Union, Single Supervisory Mechanism Inauguration (55:09–1:01:27)

The European Union has inaugurated the Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM), centralizing the oversight of all banks within the Eurozone under the European Central Bank. Officials described the move as a "revolution" in financial architecture and a major step toward deeper European integration.

Keywords: single supervisory mechanism, [european central bank](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-central-bank.md), [brussels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brussels.md), [mario draghi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mario-draghi.md), [banking union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/banking-union.md), financial architecture

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Angela Merkel Spying Probe, BND and NSA Relations (1:01:29–1:03:45)

German authorities have dropped the probe into the NSA's alleged spying on Chancellor Angela Merkel's mobile phone, citing a lack of evidence. The discussion touches on the capabilities of the German BND intelligence agency compared to the Russian FSB and American CIA.

Keywords: [angela merkel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angela-merkel.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [bnd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bnd.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), [espionage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/espionage.md), [fsb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fsb.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Disney Junior Militarization, Saluting the Air Force (1:03:47–1:07:07)

A segment on Disney Junior encouraging children to salute military parents is criticized as a form of early-childhood militarization. The hosts also discuss the increasing presence of patriotic rituals at sporting events, such as singing "America the Beautiful" with armed guards during baseball games.

Keywords: disney junior, [air force](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-force.md), [militarization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/militarization.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [national anthem](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-anthem.md), [baseball](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/baseball.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Halifax International Security Forum, Fortress North America (1:07:08–1:12:05)

Senator John McCain led a congressional delegation to the Halifax International Security Forum to discuss the creation of a "Fortress North America." McCain used the threat of ISIS to justify increased military cooperation and spending between the United States and Canada.

Keywords: halifax, [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), fortress north america, [military industrial complex](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-industrial-complex.md), [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Serena Shim Death, Turkish Intelligence Allegations (1:12:06–1:16:17)

American journalist Serena Shim was killed in a suspicious car accident in Turkey shortly after reporting that Turkish intelligence had accused her of spying. Shim had been investigating the smuggling of militants into Syria using World Food Program trucks as cover.

Keywords: serena shim, [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [press tv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/press-tv.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), militants, [world food program](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-food-program.md), [espionage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/espionage.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Joe Biden in Turkey, ISIS Proxy State Theories (1:16:18–1:21:59)

Vice President Joe Biden visited Turkey to urge a more active role in the fight against ISIS, while Turkish President Erdogan remains focused on toppling Bashar al-Assad. Speculation arises that Turkey is using ISIS as a proxy state to manage Kurdish populations and expand regional influence.

Keywords: [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [erdogan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/erdogan.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [humanitarian aid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/humanitarian-aid.md), [pkk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pkk.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/26.md)

### 27. French Jihadists, ISIS Online Recruitment Memes (1:22:00–1:26:23)

French media is highlighting the "self-radicalization" of citizens joining ISIS, focusing on the group's supposedly sophisticated online propaganda. The hosts question the narrative that a group of militants in Toyota trucks possesses superior digital marketing skills compared to Western agencies.

Keywords: [france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/france.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [jihadists](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jihadists.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), online recruitment, [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/27.md)

### 28. US Assistance to Ukraine, IMF and Sovereign Bonds (1:26:24–1:32:29)

Vice President Joe Biden announced a $20 million aid package for Ukrainian law enforcement and $3 million for food rations. The US has also guaranteed a $1 billion sovereign bond for Ukraine as part of an IMF-led effort to stabilize the country's financial sector following the 2014 change in government.

Keywords: [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [imf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imf.md), sovereign bonds, [kiev](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kiev.md), [osce](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/osce.md), [military aid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-aid.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Ukrainian Constitutional Reform, Broadcasting Board of Governors (1:32:32–1:37:09)

The United States is actively assisting Ukraine with constitutional reforms and "voter education" through the Broadcasting Board of Governors. This includes launching Russian-language television programs produced by Radio Free Europe to counter local narratives and align Ukraine with European standards.

Keywords: [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [broadcasting board of governors](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/broadcasting-board-of-governors.md), [radio free europe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radio-free-europe.md), [wto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wto.md), [constitutional reform](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitutional-reform.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Jonathan Gruber, Affordable Care Act Transparency (1:37:10–1:39:35)

The controversy surrounding MIT economist Jonathan Gruber's comments on the "stupidity of the American voter" regarding the Affordable Care Act is discussed. The segment links this lack of transparency to modern tech reporting, citing BuzzFeed's failure to disclose financial ties to Lyft while reporting on Uber.

Keywords: jonathan gruber, [affordable care act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/affordable-care-act.md), [obamacare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/obamacare.md), [buzzfeed](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/buzzfeed.md), [uber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uber.md), [lyft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lyft.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Uber and the Downgrade of the Middle Class (1:39:36–1:44:14)

The rise of Uber is framed as the "downgrade" of the middle class, where individuals use their personal vehicles to serve as "slaves" to the elite. The hosts argue that the gig economy has rebranded a scummy, difficult business—taxi driving—into a trendy lifestyle choice for the economically displaced.

Keywords: [uber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uber.md), [middle class](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/middle-class.md), [taxi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taxi.md), [gig economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gig-economy.md), [rideshare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rideshare.md), [danny devito](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/danny-devito.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/31.md)

### 32. Hitchhiking History, John C. Dvorak's Motorcycle Story (1:44:16–1:49:23)

John C. Dvorak shares a story from the 1970s about riding a Kawasaki motorcycle to Lake Tahoe to see BB King. After winning money gambling and attempting to ride home in freezing temperatures, he suffered from hypothermia and was unable to speak when he tried to offer a ride to a hitchhiker.

Keywords: [hitchhiking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hitchhiking.md), [motorcycle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/motorcycle.md), kawasaki, [lake tahoe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lake-tahoe.md), [bb king](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bb-king.md), [hypothermia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hypothermia.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Julien Blanc, Pickup Artist Controversy (1:49:23–1:52:02)

Dating coach Julien Blanc is the subject of international petitions seeking to ban him from various countries due to his "sexist" pickup tactics. The hosts suggest the controversy is a calculated publicity stunt designed to increase his visibility and seminar attendance.

Keywords: julien blanc, [pickup artist](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pickup-artist.md), [brazil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brazil.md), online petition, [sexism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sexism.md), [chick-fil-a](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chick-fil-a.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/33.md)

### 34. Immigration Executive Action, Prosecutorial Discretion (1:52:02–1:58:06)

The debate over President Obama's executive action on immigration is analyzed through the lens of "prosecutorial discretion." The hosts argue that the media and politicians are ignoring the legal reality that the policy simply instructs agencies to prioritize felons for deportation over families.

Keywords: [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [executive action](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-action.md), prosecutorial discretion, [luis gutierrez](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/luis-gutierrez.md), [democracy now](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democracy-now.md), [dhs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dhs.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/34.md)

### 35. Presidential Memoranda, New Americans Task Force (1:58:08–2:04:32)

President Obama signed memoranda creating the "New Americans Task Force" to integrate immigrants and refugees. The discussion highlights how these actions empower the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to make discretionary decisions on who stays in the country, often based on arbitrary criteria.

Keywords: presidential memorandum, [task force](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/task-force.md), [dhs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dhs.md), [ice](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ice.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [haiti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/haiti.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/35.md)

### 36. Life and Death in Shanghai, Sinclair Lewis Comparison (2:04:35–2:06:43)

The book Life and Death in Shanghai by Nien Cheng is recommended as a factual account of what happens when "creeps" gain power in a society. It is compared to Sinclair Lewis's fictional work It Can't Happen Here, illustrating the rise of authoritarianism and the suppression of dissent.

Keywords: [nien cheng](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nien-cheng.md), [life and death in shanghai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/life-and-death-in-shanghai.md), [sinclair lewis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sinclair-lewis.md), [it can't happen here](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/it-can-t-happen-here.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [communism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/communism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/36.md)

### 37. DHS Border Checkpoints, Internal Immigration Enforcement (2:06:44–2:12:59)

A story about a border patrol checkpoint 100 miles inside the New Mexico border illustrates the reach of the Department of Homeland Security. Another anecdote involves a traveler being questioned aggressively by US customs after visiting Canada solely to obtain a flu shot during a domestic shortage.

Keywords: [dhs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dhs.md), [border patrol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-patrol.md), [new mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-mexico.md), [flu shot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flu-shot.md), [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md), [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/37.md)

### 38. Moral Self-Licensing, Lauren Smith's Essay (2:13:02–2:16:16)

Lauren Smith, daughter of a No Agenda knight, received a top grade for her essay and speech on "moral self-licensing." The hosts discuss the concept and apologize for their previous skepticism regarding the academic reception of the topic.

Keywords: [moral self-licensing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moral-self-licensing.md), [essay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/essay.md), [education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education.md), lincolnshire, [psychology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/psychology.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/38.md)

### 39. Keystone XL Pipeline, Warren Buffett and Railroads (2:16:16–2:22:20)

The resistance to the Keystone XL pipeline is attributed to the financial interests of Warren Buffett and his railroad holdings, such as Burlington Northern. Shipping oil by rail is highly profitable for these companies but has created a shortage of railcars for Canadian farmers trying to get their grain to market.

Keywords: [keystone xl](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keystone-xl.md), [warren buffett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/warren-buffett.md), [berkshire hathaway](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/berkshire-hathaway.md), [railroads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/railroads.md), canadian national, grain

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/39.md)

### 40. No Agenda Support, Knighting of Sir Beardmaster General (2:22:22–2:28:51)

The hosts acknowledge financial support from the "producers" and perform a knighting ceremony for Sir Beardmaster General. They reiterate the value of their independent analysis compared to mainstream media and confirm titles for the protector of Orange County.

Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), beardmaster general, [orange county](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/orange-county.md), [peerage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peerage.md), [support](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/support.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/40.md)

### 41. Gender Interaction Analysis, No Agenda Academic Study (2:28:51–2:38:57)

A student at the University of Massachusetts submitted a paper analyzing the gender roles and power dynamics between the two male hosts of No Agenda. The hosts deconstruct the analysis, arguing that their interactions are a form of "performance art" and "improv" rather than traditional social behavior.

Keywords: university of massachusetts, [gender roles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gender-roles.md), [performance art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/performance-art.md), [improv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/improv.md), [red bull](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/red-bull.md), [stammering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stammering.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/41.md)

### 42. Vice Media, Tom Freston and Shane Smith (2:38:57–2:42:10)

The credibility and valuation of Vice Media are questioned, with the hosts suggesting that many of their "edgy" documentaries are scripted or rigged. The involvement of former Viacom executive Tom Freston and founder Shane Smith is highlighted as Vice moves toward a multi-billion dollar valuation.

Keywords: [vice media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vice-media.md), [tom freston](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-freston.md), [shane smith](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shane-smith.md), [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md), [viacom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/viacom.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/42.md)

### 43. Fukushima Radiation, Vice Media Cesium Claims (2:42:10–2:51:29)

A Vice Media documentary on Fukushima is criticized for using "sweetened" audio and sensationalist claims about radiation levels. Nuclear expert Rod Adams provides a counter-analysis, stating that the levels of cesium and iodine released do not pose the long-term public health threat suggested by the film.

Keywords: [fukushima](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fukushima.md), [radiation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/radiation.md), [cesium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cesium.md), [vice media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vice-media.md), [japan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/japan.md), [thyroid cancer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/thyroid-cancer.md), [rod adams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rod-adams.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/43.md)

### 44. Anthony Bourdain, Food Photography in Paris (2:51:30–2:55:15)

A clip of Anthony Bourdain in a Paris restaurant shows him encouraging the practice of taking photos of food for social media. The hosts lament this trend, suggesting that the obsession with documenting experiences for Twitter and Instagram detracts from the actual enjoyment of the meal.

Keywords: [anthony bourdain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anthony-bourdain.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [paris](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paris.md), food photography, [selfies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/selfies.md), [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/44.md)

### 45. Julian Assange Update, Swedish Court Appeal (2:55:15–2:57:34)

A Swedish appeals court has rejected Julian Assange's request to withdraw an arrest warrant, maintaining that he remains a flight risk. Assange's legal team argues that Swedish prosecutors should question him at the Ecuadorian embassy in London to move the investigation forward.

Keywords: [julian assange](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/julian-assange.md), [wikileaks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wikileaks.md), [sweden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sweden.md), [ecuadorian embassy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ecuadorian-embassy.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [pussy riot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pussy-riot.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/45.md)

### 46. Tech News, SPDY Protocol and WhatsApp Blue Dots (2:57:35–3:02:16)

The tech segment covers the SPDY protocol, a $20,000 donation to the OpenBSD project from a Bitcoin billionaire, and the emergence of Li-Fi technology. Additionally, user backlash against WhatsApp's "blue dot" read receipts is discussed, alongside decentralized chat alternatives like Tox.

Keywords: spdy, openbsd, li-fi, [whatsapp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/whatsapp.md), [bittorrent](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bittorrent.md), tox, [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/46.md)

### 47. Outro, Psalm 121 Sign-Off (3:02:17–3:03:28)

The hosts conclude the episode with their traditional sign-off from Amsterdam and Silicon Valley. Adam Curry recites a portion of the family prayer, Psalm 121, before ending the broadcast.

Keywords: [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), psalm 121, [sign-off](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sign-off.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/672-taboose/chapter/47.md)

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