# The Third Shoe Show

> A massive leak of Madoff victims and a swimmer’s public fall from grace define a week of institutional failure and economic anxiety.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 69
- **Published:** 2009-02-05
- **Length:** 1h 29m
- **Topics:** Madoff victims, SEC whistleblower, [Michael Phelps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-phelps.md), [Gordon Brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gordon-brown.md), TARP funds, [FEMA camps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fema-camps.md), Peanut salmonella
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show

## About this episode

Bernie Madoff victims including Arthur Rock and various Berkeley residents face public exposure after the New York Post published a 300-page list of the Ponzi scheme's targets. Whistleblower Harry Markopolos testified before Congress, lambasting the SEC for its failure to act on years of warnings. SEC official Linda Thomsen faced sharp criticism for her refusal to answer direct questions during the hearing, highlighting a systemic lack of accountability within the regulatory body.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown sparked international concern after accidentally referring to the global economic crisis as a depression during a speech on protectionism. Meanwhile, Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps lost major corporate sponsorships following the release of a photograph showing him using a glass pipe. In the United States, Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner remains under fire for tax filing errors made via TurboTax, while President Barack Obama continues a series of high-profile media appearances to address the deepening recession. The FDA is also facing scrutiny for its failure to prevent a salmonella outbreak at a peanut butter plant that resulted in eight deaths.

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak launch the first weekday edition of the program, broadcasting from London and Silicon Valley. Dvorak reveals his status as a Doctor of Divinity through the Universal Life Church while the pair analyzes the authenticity of Bruce Springsteen’s working-man persona during the Super Bowl XLIII halftime show. The broadcast concludes with a skeptical look at the military presence during the national anthem and the rise of carbon trading schemes.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/transcript.md.

### 1. Gitmo Nation Branding and Weekday Show Premiere (0:01–1:53)

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak introduce the premiere of the weekday edition of the No Agenda show, broadcasting from London and Silicon Valley. They discuss the "Gitmo Nation" branding and note that Rush Limbaugh has adopted similar terminology for his own program. The hosts plan to increase their output to two shows per week.

Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md), [rush limbaugh](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rush-limbaugh.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Bernie Madoff Scam Victim List and SEC Whistleblower (0:57–3:38)

A 300-page PDF listing victims of the Bernie Madoff Ponzi scheme was published by the New York Post, including venture capitalist Arthur Rock and residents of Berkeley. Discussion turns to the testimony of whistleblower Harry Markopolos, who criticized the SEC for being inadequate and under-motivated. SEC official Linda Thomsen is highlighted for her refusal to answer specific questions during congressional testimony.

Keywords: [bernie madoff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bernie-madoff.md), [sec](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sec.md), arthur rock, [whistleblower](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/whistleblower.md), [harry markopolos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harry-markopolos.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Michael Phelps Marijuana Photo Controversy and Role Models (3:39–5:32)

Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps faced public backlash and the loss of corporate sponsorships after a photograph surfaced showing him using a glass pipe. The conversation compares the public's reaction to Phelps' drug use with the acceptance of Barack Obama's past marijuana use. The hosts argue that while the imagery is negative, marijuana is not a banned substance in many professional sporting contexts.

Keywords: [michael phelps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-phelps.md), [marijuana](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marijuana.md), [sponsorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sponsorship.md), [olympics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/olympics.md), role models

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/3.md)

### 4. European Economic Crisis and Polish Labor Migration (5:33–8:05)

Economic instability in the European Union is leading to "delocalization," with reports of Irish businesses and workers moving to Poland. While many Polish workers are returning home from Western Europe, Irish pubs are reportedly opening in cities like Łódź. The hosts criticize the structure of the EU for subsidizing Eastern European growth while established economies like Ireland face severe debt downgrades.

Keywords: [poland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/poland.md), [ireland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ireland.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), delocalization, [economic crisis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-crisis.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Gordon Brown Economic Gaffes and Doha Agreement (8:05–10:54)

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown made a verbal slip by referring to the global economic state as a "depression" rather than a "recession" during a speech on protectionism. Another gaffe is revisited where Brown claimed to have "saved the world" during a parliamentary session. The segment briefly mentions the Doha Agreement as a trade mechanism intended to open global markets.

Keywords: [gordon brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gordon-brown.md), [recession](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recession.md), [depression](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/depression.md), doha agreement, [world trade organization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-trade-organization.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Barack Obama Private Breakfast and FDR Prayer References (10:55–12:26)

President Barack Obama appeared at a "private breakfast" that was broadcast live on CNBC, where he referenced Franklin D. Roosevelt leading prayer sessions during tough times. The hosts interpret this as a sign of desperation regarding the current economic situation. They question the transparency of events labeled as private while being televised to the public.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [cnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnbc.md), [fdr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fdr.md), prayer breakfast, [economic crisis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-crisis.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Presidential Term Limits and Franklin D. Roosevelt History (12:26–14:42)

The history of presidential term limits is explored, noting that Franklin D. Roosevelt's four terms led to the 22nd Amendment. The hosts speculate that without this amendment, Bill Clinton might still be in office. They discuss how the Founding Fathers did not originally include term limits, assuming the nature of the job would prevent lifelong tenure.

Keywords: [fdr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fdr.md), [constitutional amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitutional-amendment.md), [bill clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-clinton.md), [term limits](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/term-limits.md), [founding fathers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/founding-fathers.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Fairness Doctrine History and Right-Wing Talk Radio (14:43–17:55)

The Fairness Doctrine, which required broadcasters to provide balanced coverage of controversial issues, is discussed in the context of its 1987 repeal under the Reagan administration. Democrats like Nancy Pelosi are reportedly interested in reinstating the policy to counter the influence of right-wing talk radio figures like Rush Limbaugh and Michael Savage. The hosts argue that talk radio is primarily entertainment and did not dictate the 2020 election outcome.

Keywords: [fairness doctrine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fairness-doctrine.md), [rush limbaugh](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rush-limbaugh.md), [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md), [ronald reagan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ronald-reagan.md), [fcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fcc.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Timothy Geithner Tax Issues and Obama Accountability (17:56–21:27)

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner faced scrutiny during his confirmation for using TurboTax to prepare filings that contained errors. President Obama's tendency to publicly apologize for administrative "screw-ups" is analyzed as a stylistic choice compared to the management style of George W. Bush. The hosts question how the President has time for governance given his frequent media appearances.

Keywords: [timothy geithner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/timothy-geithner.md), [turbotax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turbotax.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [tarp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tarp.md), [tax evasion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-evasion.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Deaths of Guy Cavagnac and Gary Christmas (21:28–24:02)

Two acquaintances of the hosts passed away recently, including director Guy Cavagnac and Gary Christmas of the "Christmas Twins." Gary Christmas was known for his coffee shop "Backstage" in Amsterdam and for performing with Tina Turner. The hosts reflect on the superstition that deaths occur in groups of three.

Keywords: guy cavagnac, gary christmas, [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), christmas twins, [tina turner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tina-turner.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Forbes Web Celebs List and Wealth Rankings (24:03–27:58)

The Forbes "Web Celebs" list is criticized for its rankings, which placed Perez Hilton at the top and included the hosts alongside Leo Laporte. The discussion shifts to the methodology of the Forbes Richest People list, with the hosts questioning the accuracy of wealth estimates for private individuals. They note that while Forbes puts significant effort into these lists, they often contain high-profile omissions like Oprah Winfrey.

Keywords: [forbes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/forbes.md), web celebs, [leo laporte](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leo-laporte.md), [perez hilton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/perez-hilton.md), [oprah winfrey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oprah-winfrey.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Wall Street Bonuses and Carbon Trading Schemes (27:58–29:34)

Wall Street firms reportedly handed out $150 billion in bonuses in 2007 despite the looming financial crisis, leading to comparisons with Ponzi schemes. The hosts jokingly suggest entering the carbon trading business as a way to profit from the next potential financial scam. They express total skepticism regarding the integrity of the current global financial system.

Keywords: [wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street.md), [bonuses](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bonuses.md), [ponzi scheme](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ponzi-scheme.md), [carbon trading](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-trading.md), [financial system](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-system.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Super Bowl XLIII Commercials and Military Presence (28:44–33:15)

The Super Bowl XLIII broadcast featured the crew of US Airways Flight 1549 and a national anthem performance by Jennifer Hudson. General David Petraeus participated in the coin toss, which the hosts criticize as an unnecessary military intrusion into a commercial sporting event. They also note the high volume of "house ads" NBC ran for its own programming like "Heroes."

Keywords: [super bowl](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/super-bowl.md), [david petraeus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-petraeus.md), [jennifer hudson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jennifer-hudson.md), [flight 1549](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flight-1549.md), [nbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Bruce Springsteen Halftime Show and Pepsi Ads (33:16–36:48)

Bruce Springsteen's halftime performance is reviewed, with the hosts questioning the authenticity of his "working man" persona given his massive net worth. The show featured Max Weinberg and the E Street Band, ending with Springsteen jokingly shouting "I'm going to Disneyland." Other Super Bowl highlights mentioned include the Star Trek movie trailer and various Pepsi advertisements.

Keywords: [bruce springsteen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bruce-springsteen.md), [halftime show](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/halftime-show.md), max weinberg, [pepsi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pepsi.md), [star trek](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/star-trek.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/14.md)

### 15. National Anthem Traditions and the Pledge of Allegiance (36:48–41:39)

The tradition of playing the national anthem at sporting events and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in schools is debated. A news story is discussed involving a teacher who allegedly placed a picture of Barack Obama next to the American flag, leading to parental complaints. The hosts reflect on the history of the "under God" phrase in the pledge and its role in reinforcing republican values.

Keywords: [national anthem](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-anthem.md), [pledge of allegiance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pledge-of-allegiance.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [schools](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/schools.md), [patriotism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriotism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Mercury in High Fructose Corn Syrup (41:41–44:59)

Mainstream commercials are attempting to debunk reports that high fructose corn syrup contains trace amounts of mercury. The hosts explain that mercury can enter the production process as a catalyst during the manufacturing of the syrup. They criticize the food industry's propaganda and the lack of public concern regarding industrial food processing.

Keywords: [high fructose corn syrup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/high-fructose-corn-syrup.md), [mercury](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mercury.md), [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md), [food safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/food-safety.md), catalyst

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Peanut Butter Salmonella Outbreak and FDA Oversight (44:59–46:45)

A major salmonella outbreak linked to a peanut butter processing plant has resulted in at least eight deaths and widespread contamination. The hosts criticize the FDA for failing to act on prior warnings about the plant's unsanitary conditions. They compare the lack of criminal prosecution for the CEO to the high-profile imprisonment of Martha Stewart.

Keywords: [salmonella](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/salmonella.md), [peanut butter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peanut-butter.md), [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md), [melamine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/melamine.md), [wrongful death](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wrongful-death.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Raw Milk Regulation and Dungeness Valley Creamery (46:45–48:14)

The Dungeness Valley Creamery in Washington State faces ongoing regulatory harassment for providing raw milk. The hosts argue that raw milk is superior to pasteurized products but is suppressed by legislation favored by large-scale industrial dairy producers. They contrast the treatment of clean raw milk farms with the leniency shown to industrial plants facing contamination issues.

Keywords: [raw milk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/raw-milk.md), dungeness valley creamery, [pasteurization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pasteurization.md), [washington state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-state.md), [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/18.md)

### 19. UK Milk Shortage and Canola Oil Origins (48:14–50:33)

A blizzard in London caused a temporary milk shortage at local Sainsbury's stores. The discussion shifts to the origins of canola oil, noting it is a rebranded version of rapeseed oil developed in Canada. Additionally, the hosts mock the British tabloids for their obsessive coverage of Jessica Simpson's physical appearance.

Keywords: [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [blizzard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blizzard.md), [canola oil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canola-oil.md), [rapeseed](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rapeseed.md), jessica simpson

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/19.md)

### 20. FEMA Camps and Historical US Coup Attempts (50:33–54:53)

Concerns are raised regarding FEMA camps and gun control legislation like H.R. 45. The hosts discuss the "Business Plot," a 1933 attempt by wealthy businessmen to recruit General Smedley Butler to overthrow President Roosevelt. They argue that while overt coups are rare in the US, the government has effectively been taken over by the military-industrial complex.

Keywords: [fema](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fema.md), h.r. 45, general butler, [fdr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fdr.md), [second amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/second-amendment.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/20.md)

### 21. US Airways Flight 1549 Cockpit Audio Release (54:54–58:16)

The BBC released edited audio of the US Airways Flight 1549 emergency landing in the Hudson River. The hosts analyze the communication between Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger and air traffic control, noting the calm demeanor of the pilot. They express frustration with the FAA for not releasing the full, unedited raw audio of the incident.

Keywords: [flight 1549](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flight-1549.md), [hudson river](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hudson-river.md), teterboro, [air traffic control](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-traffic-control.md), [bird strike](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bird-strike.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Show Production and Finnish Listeners (58:16–1:01:03)

The hosts discuss internal show production notes, including a plan to play at least two Obama-related jokes per episode to maintain a light, radio-style atmosphere. They mention a group of Finnish listeners who reportedly stopped their own "No Agenda" style show because they could not keep up with the hosts' new twice-weekly schedule.

Keywords: obama jokes, [skype](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skype.md), [finland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/finland.md), [podcast production](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-production.md), radio style

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Sarbanes-Oxley and the Lack of IPO Markets (1:01:06–1:03:42)

The collapse of the IPO market is attributed to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which increased the cost and complexity of going public. The hosts argue that the lack of traditional IPOs forced financial institutions to create risky real estate investment packages to maintain profits. Personal anecdotes about the "pricing meeting" process during an IPO are shared to illustrate industry "scams."

Keywords: [sarbanes-oxley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sarbanes-oxley.md), [ipo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ipo.md), [real estate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/real-estate.md), [investment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/investment.md), [financial collapse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-collapse.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Origin of the First 100 Days Metric (1:03:43–1:06:14)

The hosts investigate the origin of the "First 100 Days" political metric, debating whether it started with Franklin D. Roosevelt or was popularized by Steve Jobs during the 1984 Macintosh launch. They conclude that while Jobs used it as a marketing milestone, it likely has deeper roots in the Roosevelt administration's rapid legislative push.

Keywords: [fdr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fdr.md), [steve jobs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/steve-jobs.md), 100 days, [macintosh](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/macintosh.md), [presidency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/presidency.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Dick Cheney Warnings and Inauguration Security (1:06:15–1:09:15)

Former Vice President Dick Cheney warned of a high probability of a nuclear or biological attack, criticizing the Obama administration's security policies. The hosts discuss a theory that Cheney used a wheelchair during the inauguration specifically to avoid standing for Obama's speech. They also mention high-resolution "gigapan" photos of the inauguration crowd.

Keywords: [dick cheney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dick-cheney.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/terrorism.md), [inauguration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/inauguration.md), [tom brokaw](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tom-brokaw.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Joe Biden Listening Tour and Political Exile (1:09:16–1:11:03)

Vice President Joe Biden has been assigned to a "listening tour" focused on the middle class, which the hosts interpret as a way to keep him out of the main political picture. They speculate that Biden's tendency to speak his mind led the administration to place him in a "penalty box." The seating arrangement at the inauguration is cited as evidence of his diminished status.

Keywords: [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [middle class](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/middle-class.md), [listening tour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/listening-tour.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [vice president](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vice-president.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Rod Blagojevich and Chicago Political Culture (1:11:04–1:13:30)

The corruption scandal involving Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is discussed as a symptom of Chicago's "mob-like" political style. The hosts compare the rapid release of Blagojevich's wiretap tapes to the secrecy surrounding other government audio. They also note the changing demographics of Chicago, specifically the significant growth of the Latino population.

Keywords: [rod blagojevich](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rod-blagojevich.md), [chicago](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chicago.md), [richard daley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/richard-daley.md), [corruption](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corruption.md), latino population

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/27.md)

### 28. John C. Dvorak Writing Process and Universal Life Church (1:13:31–1:17:09)

John C. Dvorak describes his non-linear writing process for his PC Mag columns and books, explaining that he rarely relies on traditional notes. The conversation shifts to the Universal Life Church and its founder, Kirby Hensley. Dvorak reveals he holds a "Doctor of Divinity" degree from the organization, which allows him to use the "D.D." suffix.

Keywords: [writing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/writing.md), [pc mag](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pc-mag.md), [universal life church](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/universal-life-church.md), [kirby hensley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kirby-hensley.md), doctor of divinity

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Aaron Burnett and CNBC Insider Ties (1:17:10–1:22:29)

CNBC anchor Aaron Burnett is criticized for her past ties to Goldman Sachs and the Council on Foreign Relations. The hosts highlight a segment where she appeared to defend Wall Street bonuses, leading them to label her a "reptilian insider." Personal experiences working with various CNBC personalities, including "Power Lunch" anchors, are shared.

Keywords: [aaron burnett](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aaron-burnett.md), [cnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnbc.md), [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [council on foreign relations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/council-on-foreign-relations.md), [wall street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wall-street.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/29.md)

### 30. TARP Transparency and Economic Hitman Theory (1:22:30–1:27:24)

A GAO document reveals that $293.7 billion has been dispersed through the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), with significant funds going to the automotive industry. The hosts propose that the US is experiencing "economic hitman" tactics in reverse, where foreign creditors like China will eventually make demands on American sovereignty. They conclude that the entire financial and regulatory system, including the SEC, is fundamentally corrupt.

Keywords: [tarp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tarp.md), [gao](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gao.md), [economic hitman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-hitman.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [corruption](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corruption.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Show Outro and Sign-off (1:27:25–1:28:48)

The hosts wrap up the premiere weekday episode, debating the "Crackpot and the Buzzkill" nicknames. They confirm the next show will likely be on Saturday. Adam Curry signs off from London and John C. Dvorak signs off from Silicon Valley, closing the 88-minute broadcast.

Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md), [podcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/69-the-third-shoe-show/chapter/31.md)

- [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/68-crackpot-the-buzz-kill.md)
- [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/70-short-changed.md)

---

This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. Every public page on this site has one: add `.md` to its URL, or request it with `Accept: text/markdown`.

- [Site index for agents (llms.txt)](https://search.noagendashow.net/llms.txt)
- [Home](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- [Search transcripts](https://search.noagendashow.net/search.md)
- [All episodes](https://search.noagendashow.net/episodes.md)
- [Topics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topics.md)
- [People](https://search.noagendashow.net/people.md)
