# Democritate

> A strategic coup in Yemen and a new American war resolution collide with a total collapse of trust in mainstream media anchors and international investigations.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 695
- **Published:** 2015-02-12
- **Length:** 3h 1m
- **Topics:** Yemen Coup, [AUMF](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aumf.md), [Brian Williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brian-williams.md), Ukraine Proxy War, MH17 Redactions, [Jon Stewart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jon-stewart.md), [Houthi Rebels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/houthi-rebels.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate

## About this episode

Houthi rebels have seized control of the government in Sana'a, Yemen, prompting the United States, Britain, and France to shutter their embassies. The strategic takeover of this critical shipping choke point on the Gulf of Aden occurs as President Barack Obama requests a new Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against ISIL. This proposed resolution seeks to codify military action while introducing the ambiguous term "enduring offensive ground combat operations," a phrase critics argue provides a decade-long legal framework for expanded warfare.

Global tensions escalate as CNN issues an apology for labeling Ukrainian forces as "pro-US troops" during a segment on lethal aid. Senator John McCain continues to advocate for arming Ukraine despite Human Rights Watch reports of the Ukrainian army using prohibited cluster bombs in civilian sectors. Meanwhile, the Dutch government released 254 documents regarding the MH17 investigation, though heavy redactions and 89 withheld files fuel speculation regarding Russian culpability. In the media world, NBC News suspended anchor Brian Williams for six months following revelations of fabricated war stories, while Jon Stewart announced his departure from The Daily Show.

Technical resilience defines this broadcast as the production originates from a dilapidated room in the Hotel Pennsylvania using a T-Mobile LTE connection. A visual effects professional deconstructs the Jordanian pilot execution video, suggesting digital compositing and Twixtor software were used to create a high-production propaganda tool. The show concludes with a deconstruction of California Psychics and the discovery of Apollo 11 artifacts in Neil Armstrong's closet.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/transcript.md.

### 1. Comcast Connection Issues, Squirrel Damage and Cable Grades (0:00–3:52)

A technician named Corey identified the source of long-standing internet connectivity issues at a residence in Northern Silicon Valley. The problems were attributed to squirrels chewing through the insulation of the outdoor coaxial cable, a physical kink in the line, and the use of outdated RG59 grade cabling instead of the required RG6. Additionally, the signal was found to be "too hot," requiring the installation of an attenuator to prevent feedback loops.

Keywords: [comcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/comcast.md), [squirrels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/squirrels.md), rg6, rg59, coax cable, signal interference

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Hotel Pennsylvania, New York City Travel and JetBlue Delays (3:55–12:17)

Travel to New York City was disrupted by a "snowmageddon" event, resulting in a canceled JetBlue flight and lost theater tickets. Accommodations at the historic Hotel Pennsylvania, built around 1915, are described as subpar, featuring small beds, stuck windows, and evidence of poor maintenance. Observations of the hotel include the presence of police tape at crime scenes and the smell of marijuana in the hallways.

Keywords: hotel pennsylvania, [new york city](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-city.md), [jetblue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jetblue.md), [snowmageddon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/snowmageddon.md), [travel delays](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/travel-delays.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/2.md)

### 3. T-Mobile International Data, Tethering Limits and LTE Performance (12:18–14:56)

T-Mobile's international data roaming and tethering policies are analyzed during a remote broadcast. While the provider offers unlimited worldwide data, high-speed tethering for laptops requires separate data buckets that can reach costs of $50 for 20 gigabytes. The performance of LTE in New York City is noted as sufficient for high-quality audio transmission without significant latency.

Keywords: [t-mobile](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/t-mobile.md), [lte](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lte.md), data tethering, [roaming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/roaming.md), smartphone plans

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Reality TV Production, Ugly George and Supermodel Scouting (14:57–17:40)

A European reality television production in New York City involves a scout recruiting potential supermodels directly off the street for auditions with brands like Revlon and Avon. This method is compared to "Ugly George," a 1980s New York public access personality on Channel J known for approaching women on the street with a camera and a satellite dish backpack.

Keywords: [ugly george](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ugly-george.md), channel j, [reality tv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reality-tv.md), [supermodels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supermodels.md), scouting

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Book of Mormon Musical, Broadway and New York Atmosphere (17:41–19:08)

A visit to the Neil Simon Theatre to see the musical "Book of Mormon" is recounted, noting that tickets became available due to poor weather conditions. The production is praised for its humor and songwriting. Observations of the New York City streets during the cold snap include the freezing of waste and the reduction of typical city odors.

Keywords: book of mormon, neil simon theatre, [broadway](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/broadway.md), musicals, [new york city](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-city.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Real Estate Cycles, Economic Depression and Urban Migration (19:11–21:59)

A theory on economic cycles suggests a potential depression within two years that could lead to a collapse in real estate and rent prices, particularly in overbuilt markets like San Francisco. Advice is given to accumulate cash and wait for this market correction before attempting to purchase property in expensive urban centers like New York City.

Keywords: [real estate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/real-estate.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [new york](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york.md), [economic cycle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-cycle.md), [rent prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rent-prices.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Yemen Political Coup, Houthi Rebels and US Embassy Closure (21:59–31:24)

Houthi rebels have seized control of the government in Sana'a, Yemen, leading the United States, Britain, and France to close their embassies. New York Times reporter Rod Nordland reports from the ground that the streets remain relatively calm and that the Houthis are attempting to reach out to the U.S. for diplomatic recognition. Despite their official slogan—which includes "Death to America"—the Houthi leadership claims they are willing to cooperate against Al-Qaeda.

Keywords: [yemen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yemen.md), [houthis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/houthis.md), [sana'a](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sana-a.md), rod nordland, [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Gulf of Aden, Strategic Shipping Choke Points and Djibouti Drone Base (31:26–36:25)

The strategic importance of Yemen is linked to its location on the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, serving as a critical choke point for global shipping. The U.S. maintains a drone base in nearby Djibouti to target Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). Historically, the region has struggled with extreme poverty, particularly in the former South Yemen.

Keywords: [gulf of aden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gulf-of-aden.md), [djibouti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/djibouti.md), [red sea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/red-sea.md), [shipping lanes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/shipping-lanes.md), [al-qaeda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/al-qaeda.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/8.md)

### 9. AUMF Joint Resolution, ISIL Definition and Military Force Authorization (36:26–42:30)

President Barack Obama has requested a new Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, specifically using the acronym ISIL. The resolution cites threats to regional stability and the deaths of U.S. citizens like James Foley and Steven Sotloff. Critics point out that the resolution relies on "inherent rights of self-defense" and poetic license regarding the group's depravity.

Keywords: [aumf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aumf.md), [isil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isil.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), joint resolution, [military force](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-force.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Enduring Offensive Ground Combat, AUMF Limitations and Legal Frameworks (42:30–49:00)

The proposed AUMF contains a limitation against "enduring offensive ground combat operations," yet the term "enduring" remains undefined in the document. Historical precedent, such as Operation Enduring Freedom, suggests this could imply a duration of over a decade. The resolution also allows for targeting "associated persons," which creates a broad legal framework for military action against any entity deemed a successor or ally to ISIL.

Keywords: [aumf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aumf.md), ground combat, enduring freedom, [boots on the ground](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boots-on-the-ground.md), [legal framework](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/legal-framework.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Visual Effects Analysis, Jordanian Pilot Video and Wag the Dog (49:02–52:30)

A visual effects professional analyzes the video of the Jordanian pilot's execution, suggesting the use of digital compositing and "Twixtor" software for frame interpolation. The discussion posits that such highly produced media serves as a "Wag the Dog" style propaganda tool to build a coalition for military intervention in Syria and the eventual removal of President Bashar al-Assad.

Keywords: [visual effects](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/visual-effects.md), twixtor, [jordan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jordan.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), [wag the dog](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wag-the-dog.md), [bashar al-assad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bashar-al-assad.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Rear Admiral Kirby, ISIL in Afghanistan and Targeted Killings (52:32–57:02)

Rear Admiral John Kirby confirmed the killing of a former Guantanamo Bay detainee in Afghanistan who had recently pledged allegiance to ISIL. Kirby described the ISIL presence in Afghanistan as "nascent" and "aspirational" rather than a deeply rooted network. The justification for the strike was that the individual was "planning operations" against U.S. and Afghan personnel.

Keywords: [john kirby](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kirby.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [gitmo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo.md), [targeted killing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/targeted-killing.md), nascent

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Foreign Fighters, Intelligence Failures and Global Banking Dominance (57:05–1:00:29)

U.S. intelligence reports indicate that 20,000 foreign fighters, including 150 Americans, have joined militants in Syria. Skepticism is expressed regarding the NSA's inability to track these individuals despite widespread surveillance. The broader geopolitical strategy is characterized as a combination of global banking dominance and the authority to conduct drone strikes anywhere in the world.

Keywords: [foreign fighters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/foreign-fighters.md), [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [intelligence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intelligence.md), [banking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/banking.md), [derivatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/derivatives.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/13.md)

### 14. FBI Counterterrorism Testimony, Schengen Agreement and Travel Restrictions (1:00:30–1:06:44)

FBI Assistant Director Steinbach testified before Congress regarding the difficulty of tracking "broken travel" routes to conflict zones, such as those utilizing the European Schengen area. Steinbach noted that while the FBI does not currently curtail the travel of legitimate citizens, they utilize "tripwires" and social media monitoring to identify potential threats. The goal is described as achieving total "under control" status through a surveillance state.

Keywords: [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [counterterrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/counterterrorism.md), [schengen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/schengen.md), travel rights, [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Anonymous Operation, Anti-ISIL Cyber Warfare and Branding (1:06:45–1:08:36)

The hacking collective Anonymous has declared "war" on ISIL, claiming they will take down social media accounts and expose members online. The group's messaging, which includes slogans like "United as one, divided by zero," is criticized for being inconsistent and potentially serving as a front for government operations.

Keywords: [anonymous](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anonymous.md), [isil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isil.md), [cyber warfare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cyber-warfare.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Jon Stewart Resignation, The Daily Show History and Career Moves (1:08:37–1:11:21)

Jon Stewart's announced departure from "The Daily Show" prompts a look back at his tenure and the show's origins under Craig Kilborn. It is suggested that Stewart's personal brand became inseparable from the program, making it difficult for a successor to maintain its success. Stewart's move toward film direction is viewed as a natural progression following the success of his peers like Steve Carell.

Keywords: [jon stewart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jon-stewart.md), [the daily show](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-daily-show.md), [comedy central](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/comedy-central.md), craig kilborn, [viacom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/viacom.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Rand Paul, Kurdish Armament and the Seven Countries Memo (1:11:22–1:15:53)

Senator Rand Paul advocates for directly arming the Kurds and involving Arab troops on the ground to fight ISIL, while criticizing Hillary Clinton's foreign policy record. This is contrasted with General Wesley Clark's famous 2001 memo detailing a Pentagon plan to "take out" seven countries in five years, including Iraq, Syria, and Iran.

Keywords: [rand paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rand-paul.md), [kurds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kurds.md), [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [wesley clark](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wesley-clark.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [neocon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neocon.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Media Subversion, Celebrity Culture and Independent Analysis (1:15:54–1:18:29)

The distinction between independent analysis and mainstream "celebrity" news is discussed, highlighting the reliance of shows like "The Daily Show" on large writing staffs. An anecdote involves a media professional who expressed fear that listening to subversive independent content could lead to legal repercussions or deportation, illustrating the perceived boundary of acceptable discourse.

Keywords: [independent media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/independent-media.md), [celebrity culture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/celebrity-culture.md), [subversion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/subversion.md), [mainstream media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mainstream-media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Executive Producer Contributions, Knighting Ceremony and Soundboard Requests (1:18:30–1:27:25)

A knighting ceremony is held for high-tier donors Ryan Merritt, Samir Bhatti, and Philippine Flossman Vinke. Soundboard requests include clips of UK Home Secretary Theresa May and anime references. The "value-for-value" model is emphasized as the primary support mechanism for the program, allowing for independent deconstruction of news events.

Keywords: [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [theresa may](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/theresa-may.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Valentine's Day Donations, Japanese Traditions and Family Milestones (1:27:26–1:36:37)

Donors contribute Valentine's Day themed messages, including a description of Japanese traditions where only women give chocolate on February 14th, followed by "White Day" on March 14th. Various "karma" requests are fulfilled for listeners facing job losses, divorces, and new births.

Keywords: [valentine's day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/valentine-s-day.md), [japan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/japan.md), white day, [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Net Neutrality Skepticism, The Vergecast and Domestic Updates (1:36:38–1:42:20)

A donor expresses skepticism toward the mainstream "net neutrality" narrative promoted by tech outlets like The Verge. Meanwhile, a new "Domestic Update" CD is announced as a companion to previous international updates. The segment concludes with a reminder of the upcoming Sunday broadcast and the "propagate the formula" call to action.

Keywords: [net neutrality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/net-neutrality.md), [the verge](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-verge.md), [nilay patel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nilay-patel.md), [gazprom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gazprom.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Ukraine Proxy War, CNN Gaffe and Pro-US Troops (1:42:23–1:44:48)

CNN issued an apology after a news banner mistakenly referred to Ukrainian forces as "pro-US troops" during a segment on whether President Obama would send arms to the region. This slip is characterized as an accidental admission of the true nature of the conflict in Ukraine, which involves a government heavily influenced by Western interests and finance ministers.

Keywords: [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [kiev](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kiev.md), [proxy war](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/proxy-war.md), [gaffe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gaffe.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/22.md)

### 23. John McCain, Cluster Bombs and Ukraine Military Aid (1:44:49–1:48:03)

Senator John McCain advocates for providing defensive arms to Ukraine to increase the military cost for Russia. However, reports from Human Rights Watch indicate that the Ukrainian army has used prohibited cluster bombs in civilian areas. McCain argues that if the U.S. had provided better weapons earlier, the use of cluster munitions might have been avoided.

Keywords: [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [cluster bombs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cluster-bombs.md), [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [human rights watch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/human-rights-watch.md), [military aid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-aid.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Minsk Agreement, Normandy Format and Putin's Press Statement (1:48:02–1:51:56)

The "Normandy format" talks between Vladimir Putin, Angela Merkel, Francois Hollande, and Petro Poroshenko focused on the Minsk agreement and a ceasefire in eastern Ukraine. Putin's press statement expressed doubt regarding the status of surrounded Ukrainian troops and called for a political settlement to avoid further bloodshed, a stance contrasted with U.S. accusations of Russian aggression.

Keywords: [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [minsk agreement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/minsk-agreement.md), normandy format, [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [angela merkel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/angela-merkel.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/24.md)

### 25. MH17 Investigation, Dutch Redactions and Russian Resources (1:51:57–1:57:41)

The Dutch government released 254 documents regarding the investigation into the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, but 89 documents remain withheld and many others are heavily redacted. The redactions are attributed to a desire to avoid "provoking" other players, leading to speculation that the evidence does not definitively support the narrative of Russian culpability.

Keywords: [mh17](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mh17.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [redaction](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/redaction.md), [black box](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-box.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Turkey Stream Pipeline, Greece Energy and Cluster Bomb Manufacturers (1:57:43–2:01:34)

Gazprom and Turkey have finalized plans for the "Turkey Stream" natural gas pipeline, which is intended to bypass Ukraine and deliver gas to Europe via Greece by December 2016. In a separate investigation, Honeywell is identified as a manufacturer of cluster munitions, such as the MK 20, which are at the center of international law controversies.

Keywords: [gazprom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gazprom.md), turkey stream, [greece](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greece.md), [cluster bombs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cluster-bombs.md), [honeywell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/honeywell.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Greek Debt Crisis, IMF Negotiations and FBI Tracking (2:01:36–2:08:21)

IMF Chief Christine Lagarde expressed a willingness to listen to the Greek government's proposals for renegotiating their bailout deal. Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis is noted for his unconventional style and refusal to sign standard agreements, leading to rumors that Russia or the BRICS nations might offer alternative financial support to Greece.

Keywords: [christine lagarde](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/christine-lagarde.md), [greece](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greece.md), [imf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imf.md), [yanis varoufakis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yanis-varoufakis.md), [bricks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bricks.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Brian Williams Suspension, NBC News and Media Trust (2:08:22–2:15:07)

NBC News suspended anchor Brian Williams for six months without pay following revelations that he misrepresented his experiences during the 2003 Iraq War. Colleagues across NBC and MSNBC, including Rachel Maddow and Al Roker, expressed "best wishes" and "remorse" for Williams, while Lester Holt took over the anchor chair. The situation is described as a major blow to the "truth and transparency" brand of the network.

Keywords: [brian williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brian-williams.md), [nbc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc-news.md), [rachel maddow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rachel-maddow.md), [lester holt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lester-holt.md), [suspension](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suspension.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Joe Scarborough, Richard Engel and Sochi Hacking Fabrications (2:15:09–2:20:34)

Joe Scarborough defended Brian Williams by citing biblical verses about "casting the first stone," while simultaneously hinting that many in the industry have secrets. This occurs alongside criticisms of other NBC reports, such as a Richard Engel segment during the Sochi Olympics that allegedly fabricated a story about immediate hacking of mobile devices to create a sense of danger.

Keywords: [joe scarborough](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-scarborough.md), [richard engel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/richard-engel.md), [sochi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sochi.md), [nbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc.md), [fabrication](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fabrication.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Final Donor Acknowledgments, Divorce Karma and Job Requests (2:20:35–2:27:38)

The final segment of donor thank-yous includes a tribute to Gary Milton Carter, who passed away from malignant melanoma. Requests for "job karma" and "divorce karma" are processed for various producers. The hosts reiterate that the show's survival depends entirely on these voluntary contributions from the audience.

Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/karma.md), [divorce](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/divorce.md), [melanoma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/melanoma.md), [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Newsletter Marketing, Selfie Backlash and Hotel Room Photos (2:27:39–2:32:52)

A discussion regarding the show's newsletter reveals that a "selfie" of a host at a theater led to a temporary drop in donations, as some listeners perceived the host as "living it up." In response, a new selfie is taken in the dingy Hotel Pennsylvania room, featuring a towel stuffed in a window, to prove the lack of a "lavish" lifestyle.

Keywords: [newsletter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newsletter.md), [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md), [selfie](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/selfie.md), hotel pennsylvania, poverty vow

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/31.md)

### 32. Table of the Round, Knighting Ceremony and Hotel Logistics (2:32:53–2:35:49)

The official knighting of Sir Smokes A Lot and Dame Phil of Hollyhurst is completed. The hosts marvel at the ability to broadcast a high-quality show from a small, poorly equipped hotel room in New York City using a T-Mobile iPhone connection.

Keywords: [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), table of the round, hotel pennsylvania, [connectivity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/connectivity.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/32.md)

### 33. California Psychics, Economic Scams and Cold Reading (2:35:50–2:41:05)

The resurgence of "California Psychics" commercials is identified as a cyclical phenomenon often tied to economic depressions. The business model, which starts at $1 per minute but can escalate to $14 per minute, is deconstructed as a classic cold-reading scam that uses basic personal information to create the illusion of supernatural insight.

Keywords: california psychics, [scams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scams.md), cold reading, [depression](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/depression.md), dionne warwick

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/33.md)

### 34. Neil Armstrong's Closet, Apollo 11 Artifacts and Lost Footage (2:41:16–2:43:55)

The widow of Neil Armstrong discovered a bag of space artifacts in a closet, including a 16mm camera used during the Apollo 11 moon landing. This discovery is significant because much of the original high-quality recording material from the mission was previously thought to be lost or destroyed by NASA.

Keywords: [neil armstrong](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neil-armstrong.md), [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), [apollo 11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apollo-11.md), lunar module, 16mm camera

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/34.md)

### 35. Ebola Extinguishing Phase, USAID and Vaccine Shilling (2:43:57–2:48:45)

The Obama administration announced a transition from "fighting" to "extinguishing" the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. This is met with skepticism regarding the narrative provided by USAID officials. Simultaneously, Senator Patty Murray is criticized for "shilling" for the Gardasil HPV vaccine by citing unacceptably low take-up rates.

Keywords: [ebola](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ebola.md), [usaid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usaid.md), [vaccines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vaccines.md), [gardasil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gardasil.md), [hpv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hpv.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/35.md)

### 36. Keystone XL Veto, Jen Psaki and Transparency Questions (2:48:46–2:53:46)

President Obama is expected to veto the Keystone XL pipeline bill, officially to allow federal reviews to finish, though critics suggest it is to protect the interests of rail-owning donors like Warren Buffett. State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki faced difficult questions from reporter Matt Lee regarding the lack of transparency in the agency review process.

Keywords: [keystone xl](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keystone-xl.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [jen psaki](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jen-psaki.md), [transparency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/transparency.md), [epa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/epa.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/36.md)

### 37. Emoji Terrorist Threats, Anti-Semitism and Internet Asbos (2:53:46–2:57:59)

A Brooklyn teenager was arrested for making a "terrorist threat" after posting a police officer emoji next to gun emojis on Facebook. While the threat charges were dropped, the case highlights a lack of legal precedent for emojis. In the UK, discussions are held regarding "Internet Asbos" to block individuals from social media for persistent hate speech or anti-Semitic content.

Keywords: [emoji](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emoji.md), [nypd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nypd.md), [hate speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hate-speech.md), asbo, [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/37.md)

### 38. Show Sign-off, T-Mobile Performance and Final Mix (2:58:00–3:01:18)

The broadcast concludes with a final praise for the T-Mobile connection's stability throughout the three-hour show. A custom musical mix featuring show memes, "predator" quotes, and a Joe Biden clip serves as the outro. The hosts announce their return for the following Sunday.

Keywords: [sign-off](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sign-off.md), [t-mobile](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/t-mobile.md), [joe biden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joe-biden.md), [end of show](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/end-of-show.md), mix

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/695-democritate/chapter/38.md)

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