# Schwack the Nose

> Western media outlets retreat into self-censorship following the Paris massacre while the Pentagon adopts aggressive new rhetoric and Bill Gates samples recycled sewer water.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 685
- **Published:** 2015-01-09
- **Length:** 2h 44m
- **Topics:** [Charlie Hebdo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charlie-hebdo.md), [Sony Hack](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sony-hack.md), Methane Cloud, CES 2015, Stingrays, Opium Production
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose

## About this episode

The Charlie Hebdo massacre in Paris has ignited a global debate over free speech, media self-censorship, and the cultural stability of the European Union. While the 'Je suis Charlie' slogan sweeps social media, major American news outlets including the New York Times and NBC face criticism for refusing to publish the satirical cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad. This reluctance to stand with French journalists highlights a growing trend of voluntary censorship in the West, even as French citizens describe the attack as a permanent fracture in their national identity.

White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest and former DNC Chairman Howard Dean have drawn scrutiny for their rhetorical efforts to distance the attacks from Islamic extremism, with Dean labeling ISIS a cult rather than a religious group. Meanwhile, Pentagon spokesperson Rear Admiral John Kirby introduced the phrase 'schwack every nose' to describe the military strategy against ISIL, a term that coincides with a $2.4 billion arms sale to Iraq involving 175 M1A1 Abrams tanks. Domestically, FBI Director James Comey continues to assert that North Korea was the sole actor behind the Sony Pictures hack, despite skepticism regarding the ease of spoofing IP addresses and the possibility of an inside job.

In a lighter segment, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2015 is dismissed as a parade of useless gadgets, ranging from $30 Bluetooth lightbulbs to the 'Belphie stick' designed for taking rear-angle selfies. Bill Gates made headlines by drinking water processed from sewer sludge via the OmniProcessor, while Adam Curry shares his surprisingly positive experiences at high-end Austin pedicure salons. The episode also features a Big Data report from John C. Dvorak, proving that newsletter subscribers are twice as likely to click on stories about kittens than those about a battered Harry Reid.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/transcript.md.

### 1. Host Health Update, Flu Symptoms, Russian Orthodox Christmas Dinner (0:00–7:04)

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the show discussing their recent illnesses, comparing symptoms of a widespread flu strain and the effectiveness of antivirals like Relenza and Tamiflu. Dvorak describes his recovery process, which included attending a traditional Russian Orthodox Christmas dinner at Russian House in Austin with Sir Gene, Earl of Texas. The hosts note the timing of the flu epidemic coinciding with the Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flu.md), [relenza](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/relenza.md), [tamiflu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tamiflu.md), russian house, orthodox christmas

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Charlie Hebdo Shooting, Prophet Muhammad Icon Proposal, French Free Speech (7:04–12:27)

The hosts analyze the terrorist attack on the Charlie Hebdo offices in Paris, questioning the official narrative while discussing the cultural impact of the "Je suis Charlie" slogan. A proposal is made for social media users to change their icons to depictions of the Prophet Muhammad as a stand for free speech. The discussion touches on the methodical nature of the attackers and the high profile of the French cartoonists targeted.

Keywords: [charlie hebdo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charlie-hebdo.md), [paris](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paris.md), [prophet muhammad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prophet-muhammad.md), je suis charlie, [freedom of speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freedom-of-speech.md), gladio b

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/2.md)

### 3. European Multiculturalism Tension, Pim Fortuyn, Paris Attack Video Anomalies (12:28–17:19)

Adam Curry reflects on his time living in the Netherlands, citing the assassination of Pim Fortuyn and the social tensions regarding Muslim integration in Europe. The hosts examine video footage of the Paris shooting, noting perceived anomalies in the execution of a wounded police officer and criticizing mainstream media for censoring the footage. They argue that Americans do not fully grasp the level of cultural tension currently present in the European Union.

Keywords: [pim fortuyn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pim-fortuyn.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), islamification, [multiculturalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/multiculturalism.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [ak-47](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ak-47.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Media Self-Censorship, Mark Stein, Prophet Muhammad Cartoons (17:21–21:43)

The segment highlights the refusal of major American news outlets like the New York Times and NBC to show the Charlie Hebdo cartoons, contrasting this with the stance of the late editor Stéphane Charbonnier. Author Mark Stein criticizes Western media for retreating into self-censorship and failing to disperse the risk by standing with the French publication. The hosts argue that American freedom of speech is weakened by voluntary censorship regarding Islamic subjects.

Keywords: stephane charbonnier, [mark stein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-stein.md), [self-censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/self-censorship.md), [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md), [huffington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/huffington-post.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/4.md)

### 5. White House Response, Josh Earnest, CAIR Islamophobia Claims (21:44–26:41)

White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest is criticized for his response to the Paris attacks, specifically his focus on "foreign fighters" and the "peaceful" nature of Islam. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is featured for its warnings against a growing "Islamophobic movement" in Europe. The hosts argue that European citizens are not experiencing irrational fear but are simply tired of violence committed in the name of religion.

Keywords: [josh earnest](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/josh-earnest.md), [white house](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-house.md), [isil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isil.md), [cair](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cair.md), [islamophobia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/islamophobia.md), [hamas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hamas.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/5.md)

### 6. French Cultural Trauma, Female Perspective, American Stereotypes (26:41–29:00)

A French woman describes the deep trauma in Paris following the killing of prominent journalists, stating that the traditional image of France is "over." The hosts briefly digress into a discussion about American stereotypes of French women and the cultural significance of the satirical magazine to the French public.

Keywords: [charlie hebdo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charlie-hebdo.md), [paris](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paris.md), french culture, [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [stereotypes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stereotypes.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/6.md)

### 7. President Obama's Ministry of Fear, Vigilance Warnings (29:00–31:56)

President Obama is criticized for using the Paris attacks to instill fear in Americans by stating such events can happen anywhere. The hosts mock the administration's call for "vigilance" among Americans living abroad, comparing the rhetoric to a fictional "Ministry of Fear" broadcast. They argue the messaging is designed to keep the public in a state of constant anxiety.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [john kerry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kerry.md), [vigilance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vigilance.md), terror alerts, ministry of fear

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/7.md)

### 8. The Onion's Self-Censorship, Joe Randazzo, US-France Alliance Rhetoric (32:00–36:19)

Former Onion editor Joe Randazzo discusses why the satirical outlet avoids depicting Muhammad, which the hosts interpret as an admission of self-censorship. President Obama's praise for France as America's "oldest ally" is contrasted with the "freedom fries" era of 2003, highlighting the inconsistency of political rhetoric regarding international relations.

Keywords: [the onion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-onion.md), joe randazzo, [lawrence o'donnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lawrence-o-donnell.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [freedom fries](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freedom-fries.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Brian Brushwood Meeting, Russian Cuisine, Putin's Geopolitics (36:22–41:51)

Dvorak recounts a surprise meeting with magician Brian Brushwood at a Russian dinner in Austin, organized by the Earl of Texas. The conversation covers the aesthetics of Russian waitresses, the specifics of Russian celebratory salads, and a Russian official's comment that the Paris tragedy proves Russia is not the primary threat to Europe.

Keywords: [brian brushwood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brian-brushwood.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), russian house, sturgeon, [chechnya](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chechnya.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Social Media Experts, Uber Drivers, The Conversation Meme (41:52–47:18)

The hosts rant against the proliferation of self-proclaimed "social media experts" on LinkedIn and among Uber drivers. They trace the "having a conversation" marketing meme back to the Cluetrain Manifesto and mock the insular nature of the social media and YouTube influencer communities.

Keywords: [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md), [seo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/seo.md), [linkedin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linkedin.md), [uber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uber.md), cluetrain manifesto

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Howard Dean on Islamic Extremism, Gun Control, Religious Labels (47:20–54:10)

Former DNC Chairman Howard Dean appears on MSNBC to argue that ISIS is a "cult" rather than an Islamic group. The hosts highlight Dean's unintentional argument against gun control when he noted that terrorists in France obtained AK-47s despite strict laws. The discussion questions why political figures go to great lengths to distance Islam from the acts of extremists.

Keywords: [howard dean](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/howard-dean.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [morning joe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/morning-joe.md), [gun control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gun-control.md), [ak-47](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ak-47.md), [quran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/quran.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Rear Admiral John Kirby, Schwacking Noses, Pentagon Body Counts (54:10–1:01:40)

Pentagon spokesperson Rear Admiral John Kirby is mocked for using the term "schwack every nose" to describe killing ISIL fighters. The hosts use the Urban Dictionary to investigate the etymology of "schwack" and criticize the Pentagon's refusal to provide body counts. They argue that the goal of "degrading and destroying" is a vague metric designed to prolong military engagement.

Keywords: [john kirby](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kirby.md), [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [isil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isil.md), schwack, body count

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/12.md)

### 13. US Arms Sales to Iraq, M1A1 Abrams Tanks, Chrysler Mounts (1:01:41–1:08:38)

A formal notification to Speaker John Boehner reveals a $2.4 billion arms sale to Iraq, including 175 M1A1 Abrams tanks and various machine guns. The hosts speculate that these weapons often end up in the hands of ISIS, creating a cycle where the US must sell even more equipment to the Iraqi government. They specifically investigate the "Chrysler mount" for .50 caliber machine guns.

Keywords: [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md), [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [john boehner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-boehner.md), m1a1 abrams, chrysler mount, [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Executive Producer Contributions, Baron von Sizemark, Knighting Ceremony (1:08:38–1:12:28)

The show transitions to the Value-for-Value segment, acknowledging a $799.99 donation from Paul Simon of Toronto. Simon is elevated from Baronet to Baron von Sizemark of the Upper Horseshoe. The hosts discuss the competitive nature of the "well-heeled knights" and play requested jingles for the new Baron.

Keywords: [paul simon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-simon.md), [toronto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/toronto.md), baron von sizemark, [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [no agenda art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-art.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Donor Thank You, Jessica Flood's Birthday Note, Karma Requests (1:12:33–1:16:38)

The hosts read a series of donation notes, including a $600 contribution from Francis M. Sheehy and a $767.89 anonymous donation. A notable "sweetest note ever" comes from Jessica Flood, who donated $333.33 for her husband Justin's 33rd birthday. The segment includes requests for "jobs karma" and specific show jingles.

Keywords: francis sheehy, jessica flood, justin flood, [birthday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthday.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/15.md)

### 16. eBay Shop Promotion, Wired Magazine Outreach, Nurse Props (1:16:41–1:22:31)

The hosts promote a listener's eBay shop, "Gorgeous Clothes and Stuff," based in the UK. They encourage producers to contact Wired Magazine editor Eric Stoyer to recommend the No Agenda show for their podcast lists. The segment concludes with a brief acknowledgment of nurses who sent "props" to the show.

Keywords: [cardiff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cardiff.md), gorgeous clothes and stuff, [wired magazine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wired-magazine.md), eric stoyer, [nurses](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nurses.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Methane Cloud over New Mexico, Climate Change Pivot (1:22:33–1:28:41)

A massive methane cloud detected by NASA satellites over New Mexico is identified as the new focal point for climate change activists. The hosts suggest that methane is being positioned as the "new CO2" because previous carbon narratives have failed to gain traction. They discuss the alleged link between the cloud and fracking operations and mock President Obama's plan to "shrink the cloud."

Keywords: [methane](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/methane.md), [new mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-mexico.md), [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [fracking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fracking.md), [greenhouse gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenhouse-gas.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Texas Earthquakes, Fracking Lubricants, Wind Farm Failures (1:28:42–1:32:26)

A series of earthquakes in the Fort Worth area is linked to fracking activities, with the hosts discussing the theory of "lubricating" fault lines. They also report on wind farms in the North Sea that require diesel-powered heaters to prevent freezing during cold snaps, highlighting the inefficiencies of green energy.

Keywords: [fort worth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fort-worth.md), [fracking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fracking.md), [earthquakes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/earthquakes.md), [wind farms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wind-farms.md), [north sea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-sea.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/18.md)

### 19. FBI Director James Comey, Sony Hack, North Korea Evidence (1:32:26–1:36:12)

FBI Director James Comey claims to have "clear evidence" that North Korea hacked Sony Pictures, citing sloppy tradecraft and direct IP address connections. The hosts remain skeptical, arguing that IP addresses are easily spoofed and that the FBI is ignoring the possibility of an inside job by ex-Sony employees.

Keywords: [james comey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-comey.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [sony pictures](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sony-pictures.md), [north korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-korea.md), [ip addresses](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ip-addresses.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Harry Reid's Exercise Injury, Mob Corruption Theories, 33 Code (1:36:13–1:41:39)

Senator Harry Reid's explanation for a severe eye injury—attributed to a broken exercise band—is scrutinized. The hosts suggest the injury looks more like the result of a physical assault and point to Reid's mention of his "33rd year" in Congress as a potential Masonic or occult code. They discuss the history of political and mob corruption in Nevada.

Keywords: [harry reid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harry-reid.md), [nevada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nevada.md), exercise equipment, black eye, [33](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/33.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Newsletter A-B Split Test, Kittens vs. Harry Reid (1:41:40–1:49:47)

John C. Dvorak presents a "Big Data Report" on an A-B split test conducted via the No Agenda newsletter. The test compared a subject line about a "cute kitten" versus one about "Harry Reid being beaten up." The results showed that while the Reid subject line had more opens, the kitten subject line generated twice as many clicks and significantly more donations, suggesting upbeat content drives better engagement.

Keywords: [big data](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/big-data.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md), a-b testing, [kittens](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kittens.md), [harry reid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harry-reid.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/21.md)

### 22. FBI Stingrays, DIRT Boxes, Cell Site Simulators (1:49:48–1:55:49)

The hosts discuss the FBI's use of "cell site simulators" like Stingrays and airborne "DIRT boxes" (Digital Receiver Technology) to track mobile phones. They review a letter from Senators Chuck Grassley and Patrick Leahy questioning the legality of these devices. The technology, often mounted on Cessnas, mimics cell towers to harvest data from thousands of citizens without warrants.

Keywords: [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [aclu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aclu.md), [stingray](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stingray.md), dirt box, [chuck grassley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chuck-grassley.md), [boeing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/22.md)

### 23. CES 2015 Critique, Internet of Things, Bluetooth Lightbulbs (1:55:51–1:59:04)

The 2015 Consumer Electronics Show is dismissed as a collection of useless "wearables" and "smart home" gadgets. The hosts mock specific products like self-watering flowerpots and $30 Bluetooth-enabled lightbulbs, arguing that the technology industry has hit a plateau with no meaningful innovation.

Keywords: ces 2015, [internet of things](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet-of-things.md), [smart home](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smart-home.md), [bluetooth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bluetooth.md), lightbulbs

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/23.md)

### 24. 4K Television, Curved Screens, Pedicure Salon Experience (1:59:06–2:02:34)

The hosts discuss the marketing of 4K and Ultra HD televisions, noting that Grand Duke David Foley's company, UltraFlix, received an award at CES. Adam Curry then shares a detailed story about his positive experiences getting pedicures at high-end salons in Austin, describing the relaxation and foot massages involved.

Keywords: [4k](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/4k.md), ultra hd, [david foley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-foley.md), curved tv, pedicure, [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/24.md)

### 25. PC Magazine Best of CES, Selfie Sticks, Belphie Sticks (2:02:35–2:09:59)

A review of PC Magazine's "Best of CES" list leads to a discussion on the "Belphie stick," a device designed to help users take selfies of their own buttocks. The hosts mock the "masturbatory" nature of selfie culture and criticize the inclusion of household appliances like washing machines in "gadget" lists.

Keywords: [pc magazine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pc-magazine.md), lg g flex 2, selfie stick, belphie stick, roti-matic

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Bill Gates OmniProcessor, Drinking Sewer Sludge (2:10:05–2:13:20)

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is promoting the "OmniProcessor," a machine that turns sewer sludge into drinking water and electricity. A video of Bill Gates drinking the processed water is analyzed, with the hosts suggesting Gates has a psychological fixation on sanitation and "poop drinking."

Keywords: [bill gates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-gates.md), omniprocessor, sewer sludge, [sanitation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sanitation.md), [melinda gates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/melinda-gates.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Final Donor Credits, Dame Stacey of Common Core, Currency Parity (2:13:25–2:18:53)

The final segment of donor acknowledgments includes a $1,030.05 donation from Sir John Donovan and a $99.99 donation from Herb Lamb. Anastasia Treckles is dubbed "Dame Stacey of the Common Core" for her work as a professor. The hosts also note the Euro's near-parity with the US Dollar and the drop in crude oil prices to $47.

Keywords: [sarnia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarnia.md), [napa valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/napa-valley.md), [common core](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/common-core.md), [euro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/euro.md), [exchange rate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/exchange-rate.md), [oil prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-prices.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Italian Developer Illness, Knighting Ceremony, Scorpion TV Ratings (2:18:53–2:23:41)

Adam Curry discusses the difficulties of getting work done while his Italian developer, Andrea, and his family are sick with the flu. A formal knighting ceremony is held for Sir Sheehy and Dame Stacey. The hosts briefly argue over the success of the TV show "Scorpion," which Dvorak insists is a failure despite high viewership numbers.

Keywords: andrea, [flu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flu.md), sir sheehy, dame stacey, [scorpion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scorpion.md), [cbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbs.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Afghanistan Opium Production, UNODC Report, Heroin Prices (2:23:42–2:27:06)

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports a record increase in opium production in Afghanistan for 2014. The hosts discuss the expansion of poppy "hectarage" and the role of US military bases in protecting these fields. They note that the high supply has driven heroin prices significantly lower than methamphetamine.

Keywords: [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [unodc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unodc.md), [opium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/opium.md), [poppy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/poppy.md), [heroin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/heroin.md), [meth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meth.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Ebola Mission in Liberia, Infrastructure Transition, Pentagon Strategy (2:27:06–2:28:54)

Senator Coons calls for a change in Pentagon strategy in Liberia, suggesting that US troops stay to transition Ebola treatment units into permanent community health clinics. The hosts criticize the subtext of the report, suggesting it implies a long-term American military presence is required for basic infrastructure in Africa.

Keywords: [ebola](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ebola.md), [liberia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/liberia.md), senator coons, [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Personal Drones, FAA Regulations, Own the Drone Protection System (2:28:56–2:34:41)

The hosts discuss the rapid growth of the personal drone industry, led by DJI Innovations. Adam Curry proposes a "Drone Protection System" (DPS) called "Own the Drone," which would use netting or net guns to capture trespassing drones. They debate the upcoming FAA regulations regarding commercial versus amateur drone pilots.

Keywords: [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), dji innovations, [faa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/faa.md), [chris anderson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-anderson.md), net gun

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/31.md)

### 32. AirAsia Crash, Tony Fernandes Stock Sales, Weather Briefings (2:34:42–2:38:51)

Suspicious stock transactions by AirAsia founder Tony Fernandes, who sold nearly a million shares in an insurance subsidiary days before the Flight 8501 crash, are highlighted. The hosts also criticize Indonesian authorities for blaming the crash on "weather" and mandating manual weather briefings for pilots, which they argue is standard practice already.

Keywords: [airasia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airasia.md), tony fernandes, stock transactions, [indonesia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/indonesia.md), flight 8501

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Pilot Autonomy, TSA Slogans, Taylor Swift Dating Rumors (2:38:51–2:44:46)

The show concludes with a discussion on pilot autonomy versus automated flight systems. A listener report from SFO details a TSA agent's honest admission that their goal is "not to do any work." Finally, the hosts mock a tabloid story about Taylor Swift and Karlie Kloss before signing off for the Thursday episode.

Keywords: [pilots](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pilots.md), [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [sfo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sfo.md), [taylor swift](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taylor-swift.md), karlie kloss, ok magazine

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/685-schwack-the-nose/chapter/33.md)

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