# Power & Gossip

> A deep dive into the Germanwings crash narrative, the strategic importance of the Yemen conflict, and how Walter Winchell invented the modern celebrity gossip machine.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 708
- **Published:** 2015-03-29
- **Length:** 3h
- **Topics:** [Germanwings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germanwings.md), Walter Winchell, [Jade Helm 15](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jade-helm-15.md), Yemen Conflict, [Ted Cruz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-cruz.md), [AIIB](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aiib.md), [Payday Loans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/payday-loans.md)
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip

## About this episode

The investigation into Germanwings Flight 9525 takes a sharp turn as co-pilot Andreas Lubitz faces scrutiny over hidden medical records and a history of depression. While British reporter Neil Connery and other mainstream outlets consolidate a murder-suicide narrative based on torn-up sick notes found in Dusseldorf, technical ADS-B data from Flightradar24 suggests the aircraft's altitude was manually dialed down to 96 feet. This rapid consensus raises questions about the influence of corporate sponsors like Boeing on PBS NewsHour and the potential for mechanical failures in Airbus fly-by-wire systems to be overlooked.

Geopolitical tensions escalate as the Saudi-led Decisive Storm coalition intervenes in Yemen to secure the strategic Port of Aden and the Bab-el-Mandeb strait. In Lausanne, P5+1 negotiators including Wendy Sherman and Mohammad Javad Zarif hammer out nuclear details while the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank signals China's intent to challenge the renminbi as a reserve currency. Domestically, Senator Ted Cruz pivots his 2016 strategy toward country music fans, a move mocked by Bill Maher but recognized as a calculated play for the massive Christian radio demographic. Meanwhile, the Pentagon faces backlash over Bowe Bergdahl desertion charges and the upcoming Jade Helm 15 military exercises in Texas.

Walter Winchell's legacy of gossip journalism is resurrected through a look at his staccato radio delivery and the modern evolution of celebrity culture on the Wendy Williams Show. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak break down the high costs of the new Bat Signal notification system while navigating technical failures and listener feedback regarding the show's critical tone. The segment concludes with a surreal report on glow-in-the-dark dogs in Texas and the Voluntary Human Extinction Movement.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/transcript.md.

### 1. No Agenda Episode 708 Introduction, Bat Signal App Costs (0:00–3:02)

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open episode 708 from Austin and Silicon Valley. They discuss the "Bat Signal" notification system for the show, noting that the previous free tier for push services ended, now costing $200 monthly. New app integrations including PushBullet and Pushover are introduced to provide live stream alerts to listeners.

Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [pocketnoagenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pocketnoagenda.md), pushbullet, pushover, [bat signal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bat-signal.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Germanwings Flight 9525 Investigation, Co-Pilot Andreas Lubitz Claims (3:03–14:00)

The investigation into the Germanwings Flight 9525 crash focuses on co-pilot Andreas Lubitz and his medical history. Reports suggest Lubitz suffered from depression and vision problems potentially linked to SSRIs or other antidepressants. Discrepancies are noted regarding the cockpit voice recorder audio, specifically claims that only the pilot's breathing and passenger screams were audible despite loud automated cockpit warnings.

Keywords: [germanwings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germanwings.md), [andreas lubitz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andreas-lubitz.md), [airbus a320](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus-a320.md), [cockpit voice recorder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cockpit-voice-recorder.md), [antidepressants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/antidepressants.md), [ads-b](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ads-b.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Media Narrative Discrepancies, Andreas Lubitz Medical Records (14:00–19:08)

Media outlets, led by British reporters like Neil Connery, report on torn-up sick notes found at Andreas Lubitz's residences in Dusseldorf and Montabaur. The narrative suggests Lubitz hid a medical condition from his employer. Local officials and neighbors express disbelief at the murder-suicide theory, while the hosts question the rapid consolidation of the "crazy pilot" narrative.

Keywords: neil connery, independent television news, [dusseldorf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dusseldorf.md), montabaur, sick notes, psychological autopsy

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/3.md)

### 4. PBS NewsHour Sponsorship, Corporate Media Skepticism (19:08–21:16)

A critique of PBS NewsHour's coverage of the Germanwings crash highlights the influence of corporate sponsors like Boeing. The segment suggests that major news organizations may avoid investigating mechanical failures in Airbus aircraft to protect the broader aviation industry. The use of ITN packages by PBS is noted as a way to distance the network from potentially biased reporting.

Keywords: [pbs newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs-newshour.md), [boeing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing.md), [airbus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus.md), [itn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/itn.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [underwriters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/underwriters.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/4.md)

### 5. ADS-B Data Analysis, Flight Management Computer Settings (21:17–32:28)

Technical data from Flightradar24.com suggests the Germanwings aircraft's altitude setting was manually changed from 38,000 feet to 96 feet. This ADS-B data indicates someone twirled the altitude dial on the Flight Management Computer rather than simply pressing a button. The lack of authentication in the ADS-B "extended squitter" system is discussed as a potential security vulnerability.

Keywords: [ads-b](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ads-b.md), [flightradar24](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flightradar24.md), [transponder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/transponder.md), flight management computer, extended squitter, altitude dial

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/5.md)

### 6. Airbus Fly-By-Wire Systems, Military Pilot Perspectives (32:30–35:44)

A military pilot compares the manual controls of the Boeing 707 to the fly-by-wire systems used by Airbus, expressing distrust in automated flight protections. Alternative theories regarding the Germanwings crash are mentioned, including potential magnetic interference from the Large Hadron Collider and a conspiracy involving an investigative team looking into banking fraud at the Vatican Bank and Mossad.

Keywords: boeing 707, [air france](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-france.md), [fly-by-wire](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fly-by-wire.md), [hydraulics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hydraulics.md), [large hadron collider](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/large-hadron-collider.md), crypto ag

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Walter Winchell Legacy, Invention of Gossip Journalism (35:45–41:49)

The history of Walter Winchell is explored as the foundation of modern celebrity-driven news. Author Neil Gabler describes how Winchell moved gossip from marginalized scandal sheets to the mainstream press in the 1930s and 40s. The segment argues that gossip empowers the public by invading the privacy of the elite, creating a "cultural democracy" that persists today.

Keywords: walter winchell, neil gabler, gossip column, [celebrity culture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/celebrity-culture.md), [new york post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-post.md), power gossip

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Walter Winchell Radio Style, Paul Harvey Comparison (41:50–47:32)

Archival audio of Walter Winchell demonstrates his fast-paced radio delivery and use of a telegraph sound effect to punctuate news items. His influence is traced to later broadcasters like Paul Harvey, though Harvey lacked Winchell's high-speed "patter." The transition from radio to television is cited as the point where Winchell's specific style lost its mainstream dominance.

Keywords: walter winchell, [paul harvey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-harvey.md), radio patter, telegraph sound, [60 minutes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/60-minutes.md), news style

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Wendy Williams Show, Modern Celebrity Gossip Mechanics (47:35–53:38)

The Wendy Williams Show is analyzed as a modern evolution of Winchell's gossip model, characterized by an intimate connection between the host and the audience. The discussion posits that modern politicians have become celebrities, allowing the public to feel a sense of control over them through the consumption of personal trivia and scandals.

Keywords: [wendy williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wendy-williams.md), [the view](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-view.md), [tmz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tmz.md), [celebrity gossip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/celebrity-gossip.md), [bill maher](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-maher.md), [empowerment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/empowerment.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Texas Agricultural Anomalies, Glow-in-the-Dark Dogs (53:38–55:18)

A brief, surreal discussion touches on claims of agricultural and biological experiments in Texas, including cows used to grow human babies and "glow-in-the-dark" dogs engineered with jellyfish DNA. The mention of "HIV corn" or pharmacological corn highlights fears regarding genetically modified organisms.

Keywords: [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), jellyfish dna, pharmacological corn, hiv corn, sea monkeys

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Listener Feedback, Negative Tone Criticism (55:18–59:52)

A listener email from a former fan moving to China criticizes the show for being too "angry" and "negative," stating a preference for positive content like that found on the TWiT network. The hosts defend their "red pill" approach of deconstructing media, contrasting it with the "positive" but deceptive messaging of corporate media and televangelists like Joel Osteen.

Keywords: [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [denver](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/denver.md), [positive thinking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/positive-thinking.md), [joel osteen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joel-osteen.md), [media deconstruction](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-deconstruction.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Uber Intelligence Network, Geopolitical Anecdotes (59:53–1:03:52)

Conversations with Uber drivers in Austin provide anecdotal insights into international perspectives. A driver from Baghdad claims Iraqis believe the CIA and Mossad are behind regional instability, while a driver from Kashmir suggests that Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 was the target of a "disappearing" weapon test.

Keywords: [uber](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uber.md), [kashmir](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kashmir.md), [baghdad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/baghdad.md), [cia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cia.md), [mossad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mossad.md), [mh370](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mh370.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/12.md)

### 13. No Agenda Art, Technical Recording Failures (1:03:53–1:07:11)

The hosts thank artist Lynn Hartson for recent show art and producer Martin JJ for saving a previous episode with a backup stream recording after a technical failure. A discussion follows regarding the difficulty of retrieving files from older hardware like the iRiver IFP-799 on modern operating systems.

Keywords: lynn hartson, [martin jj](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/martin-jj.md), iriver ifp-799, backup recording, audio stream

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Executive Producer Credits, Fletcher Fest Donations (1:07:12–1:12:34)

Executive producers and donors are recognized, including Steven Yarosh and Thomas Nussbaum. The "Fletcher Fest" promotion is discussed, where donors contributing $314.15 receive a personalized shout-out. A "Boom Shakalaka" sound bite from a Charles Schwab commercial is introduced into the show's audio repertoire.

Keywords: steven yarosh, [fletcher fest](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fletcher-fest.md), [boom shakalaka](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boom-shakalaka.md), charles schwab, [thomas nussbaum](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/thomas-nussbaum.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Internet Outage Rituals, Voluntary Human Extinction Movement (1:12:35–1:17:00)

A donor's request for an "Internet!" scream to use during office outages leads to a discussion about the Voluntary Human Extinction Movement. This is prompted by a listener email referencing Patrick Moore's comments on Greenpeace's shifting ideology. The segment concludes with a reflection on the inaccuracy of mainstream media reporting based on personal experiences with fact-checkers.

Keywords: [internet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet.md), easy button, michael hintz, [greenpeace](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greenpeace.md), voluntary human extinction movement

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Michigan Meetups, DEA Sex Party Scandal (1:17:00–1:20:28)

A No Agenda meetup is announced for April 1st in Westland, Michigan. The discussion shifts to a news report regarding DEA agents in Colombia attending sex parties funded by drug cartels. The agents reportedly received only minor suspensions despite the potential for blackmail and the presence of government-issued equipment at the parties.

Keywords: [michigan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michigan.md), westland, [dea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dea.md), [colombia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/colombia.md), [cartels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cartels.md), [hookers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hookers.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Social Media Songs, Ukraine Official Suicides (1:20:29–1:24:51)

The hosts discuss a new social media-themed song and the registration of the "letsgetsocial.today" domain. The news segment covers a series of suspicious suicides among high-ranking Ukrainian officials and the shooting of Boston police officer John Moynihan, a veteran who was previously honored for his role during the Boston Marathon bombing investigation.

Keywords: james black, [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [suicides](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suicides.md), boston police, john moynihan

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Iran Nuclear Negotiations, P5+1 Negotiator Profiles (1:24:52–1:36:18)

The P5+1 nuclear negotiations in Lausanne, Switzerland, are scrutinized, with a focus on the backgrounds of the negotiators. Profiles include Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and U.S. Undersecretary Wendy Sherman, whose ties to the Albright Stonebridge Group and Fannie Mae are highlighted. The hosts question the true nature of the deal and the involvement of Russia and China.

Keywords: [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), lausanne, [p5+1](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/p5-1.md), mohammad javad zarif, [wendy sherman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wendy-sherman.md), [fannie mae](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fannie-mae.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Yemen Conflict, Geopolitical Importance of Aden (1:36:20–1:44:58)

The Saudi-led "Decisive Storm" coalition's intervention in Yemen is framed as a strategic move to secure the Bab-el-Mandeb strait and the Port of Aden. The hosts argue the conflict is less about religion and more about protecting global shipping lanes and oil pipelines. The proximity of the U.S. drone base in Djibouti is noted as central to regional control.

Keywords: [yemen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yemen.md), [houthis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/houthis.md), [saudi arabia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/saudi-arabia.md), aden, bab-el-mandeb, [djibouti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/djibouti.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Syrian Chemical Weapons Narrative, Ted Cruz Criticism (1:44:59–1:49:44)

The media narrative regarding chemical weapons in Syria is challenged, citing reports that rebels were responsible for previous attacks. The discussion transitions to the 2016 presidential race, criticizing Gwen Ifill's dismissive reporting on Ted Cruz's announcement. The hosts express personal distaste for Cruz's style while acknowledging his intelligence and political connections.

Keywords: [bashar al-assad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bashar-al-assad.md), [chemical weapons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chemical-weapons.md), [newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newshour.md), [ted cruz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-cruz.md), [gwen ifill](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gwen-ifill.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Ted Cruz Country Music Strategy, Bill Maher Deconstruction (1:49:44–1:58:05)

Ted Cruz's claim that his musical taste shifted to country music after 9/11 is analyzed as a calculated political move to appeal to a massive radio audience. Bill Maher's mockery of the claim is deconstructed, with the hosts arguing that Cruz's strategy is "brilliant" for reaching the 48% of Americans who consume country and Christian music. An MSNBC guest's offensive comment linking country music to "killing Muslims" is also noted.

Keywords: [ted cruz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-cruz.md), [bill maher](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-maher.md), [country music](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/country-music.md), [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), jamila lemieux

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Oakland Zoo Feeding Program, Linguistic Annoyances (1:58:06–2:01:10)

A report on a public feeding program at the Oakland Zoo, where visitors can provide produce for elephants and other herbivores, is used to highlight a linguistic pet peeve. The hosts express irritation at the frequent use of the word "veggies" in news reporting, viewing it as demeaning and juvenile.

Keywords: oakland zoo, [elephants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elephants.md), herbivores, [veggies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/veggies.md), [kale](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kale.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Insect Protein Initiatives, European Vegetarian Trends (2:01:11–2:08:23)

European initiatives to introduce insect protein into animal feed and human diets are discussed as a form of "mind control" by elites. The segment also covers "Veggie Thursday" in Ghent, Belgium, where schools and public offices promote meat-free meals for environmental and animal welfare reasons, which the hosts view as a political attack on meat consumption.

Keywords: [entomophagy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/entomophagy.md), [insect protein](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/insect-protein.md), [mad cow disease](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mad-cow-disease.md), ghent, veggie thursday, [animal welfare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/animal-welfare.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Netherlands Power Outage, Irish Water Meter Debacle (2:08:23–2:11:42)

A massive power outage in the northern Netherlands reveals the vulnerability of a cashless society, as citizens were unable to purchase fuel or groceries without electronic payments. In Ireland, the ongoing "water debacle" continues as citizens protest the installation of smart meters and new laws allowing the government to deduct water charges directly from bank accounts.

Keywords: [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), [schiphol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/schiphol.md), [cashless society](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cashless-society.md), [ireland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ireland.md), [water meters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/water-meters.md), [smart meters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smart-meters.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Bowe Bergdahl Desertion Charges, Military Accountability (2:11:44–2:15:20)

The legal case against Bowe Bergdahl for desertion and misbehavior before the enemy is discussed following his release from Taliban captivity. While the charges carry significant prison time, reports suggest the Pentagon may negotiate a deal to avoid jail time. The hosts express concern that the "fix is in" to protect the Obama administration's narrative regarding the prisoner exchange.

Keywords: [bowe bergdahl](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bowe-bergdahl.md), [desertion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/desertion.md), [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [taliban](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/taliban.md), [prisoner exchange](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/prisoner-exchange.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Climate Change and Women, House Resolution 29 (2:15:26–2:18:04)

California Representative Barbara Lee introduced House Resolution 29, which claims climate change disproportionately affects women and may drive them into "transactional sex" or "sex work." The hosts mock the resolution's preamble, which links environmental stress to an increase in prostitution and early marriage in developing nations.

Keywords: [barbara lee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barbara-lee.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), house resolution 29, transactional sex, [reproductive health](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reproductive-health.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Federal Budget Deficit, Military Spending vs Healthcare (2:18:06–2:19:35)

A critique of proposed federal budget cuts focuses on the decision to reduce healthcare benefits while maintaining or increasing military spending. The hosts point out the irony of cutting social services while the Pentagon remains unable to pass an audit, suggesting the public is being misled about the necessity of these fiscal priorities.

Keywords: [federal deficit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-deficit.md), healthcare cuts, [military spending](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/military-spending.md), [pentagon audit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon-audit.md), [corruption](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corruption.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Jade Helm 15 Exercise, Agoraphobia Anecdote (2:19:35–2:25:44)

The military training exercise "Jade Helm 15" has sparked concerns in Texas about a potential federal takeover. The hosts compare the "blending in" tactics of Special Forces to an anecdote about agoraphobics being sent to grocery stores as therapy. The segment also covers humorous ways to avoid street canvassers by claiming to "hate" the cause they are promoting.

Keywords: [jade helm 15](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jade-helm-15.md), [special forces](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/special-forces.md), [texas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texas.md), agoraphobia, [andronico's](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andronico-s.md), street canvassers

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Military Propaganda Leaflets, Listener Donations (2:25:46–2:32:50)

A listener who served as a loadmaster in the Air Force shares propaganda leaflets designed to look like currency that were dropped over Afghanistan. The hosts then read a series of donations, including a "douchebag call-out" for a non-contributing listener and a card from Marta Calistrom listing synonyms for the word "amazing."

Keywords: c-17 globemaster, [afghanistan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/afghanistan.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md), stuart rushing, james rockle, marta calistrom

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Job Karma Success, Facebook Donation Group (2:32:51–2:40:10)

A listener from the Netherlands reports finding a job after years on benefits, attributing it to "job karma." The hosts discuss a No Agenda Facebook group organized by Mimi Curry that is pooling funds to knight a member. They contrast the "positive" Facebook community with the more critical environment of the show's Reddit community.

Keywords: pascal schelfhout, [harlem](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/harlem.md), [job karma](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/job-karma.md), [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [reddit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reddit.md), [mimi curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mimi-curry.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, China Economic Risks (2:40:13–2:46:02)

The rise of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is framed as China's move toward establishing the renminbi as a global reserve currency. This development follows the U.S. failure to ratify IMF reforms. However, reports of defaulting trust companies and manipulated economic data suggest significant underlying risks in the Chinese financial system.

Keywords: [aiib](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aiib.md), [renminbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/renminbi.md), [reserve currency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reserve-currency.md), [imf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/imf.md), [brics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brics.md), trust companies

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/31.md)

### 32. Payday Loan Regulation, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (2:46:05–3:00:19)

President Obama's push for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to regulate payday loans is analyzed. The hosts compare the high fees of payday lenders to the even higher effective APRs of credit card late fees and utility penalties. They argue that while payday loans can be predatory, the broader financial system—including student loans—operates on similar principles of debt entrapment.

Keywords: [payday loans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/payday-loans.md), [cfpb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cfpb.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), apr, [usury laws](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usury-laws.md), [student loans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/student-loans.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/708-power-gossip/chapter/32.md)

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