# Pollen Tsunami

> From the legality of NSA surveillance to the UK election results and the rise of autonomous trucking, the global landscape shifts under new technological and political mandates.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 720
- **Published:** 2015-05-10
- **Length:** 2h 50m
- **Topics:** NSA Ruling, [UK Election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uk-election.md), EMP Threat, [Clinton Foundation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinton-foundation.md), Pollen Tsunami, [Autonomous Trucks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/autonomous-trucks.md), Waze Traffic
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami

## About this episode

A federal appeals court ruled the National Security Agency's bulk collection of American phone records illegal, a landmark decision following revelations by Edward Snowden. This ruling arrives as Congress faces a June 1st deadline to renew Section 215 of the Patriot Act, pitting the ACLU against federal surveillance mandates. Meanwhile, the Clinton Foundation faces renewed scrutiny over the State Department's failure to independently review private donations during Hillary Clinton's tenure, particularly regarding the non-transparent Clinton Health Access Initiative.

In the 2016 presidential cycle, candidates Ted Cruz and Mike Huckabee are warning of an Electromagnetic Pulse attack from Iran, coinciding with NORAD's strategic move back into the Cheyenne Mountain bunker. Former Congressman Mike Rogers launched Americans for Peace, Prosperity and Security to steer national security rhetoric, while Senator Cory Booker called for the U.S. government to collaborate with Silicon Valley to produce viral memes against ISIS. Internationally, David Cameron secured a decisive victory in the UK General Election, triggering the resignations of Ed Miliband, Nick Clegg, and Nigel Farage amid protests over proportional representation in Whitehall.

Cultural shifts take center stage as media reports label the current allergy season a pollen tsunami linked to climate change, while the Austin Ballet's performance of Swan Lake highlights the enduring power of Tchaikovsky. Sofia Vergara and Nick Loeb enter a public legal battle over frozen embryos that challenges Hollywood's political narratives. The program concludes with a formal knighting ceremony for Sir Chris of Carmel by the Sea, honoring his commitment to the value-for-value model.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/transcript.md.

### 1. Mother's Day, Presidential Proclamation, and Eating Insects (0:00–4:03)

The discussion opens with reflections on Mother's Day and the lack of listener donations related to the holiday. A presidential proclamation by Barack Obama regarding Mother's Day is read, highlighting its inclusive language for biological, adoptive, and foster mothers. The conversation shifts to a recent push by figures like Kofi Annan and the World Food Program encouraging Westerners to eat insects, a practice already common for millions globally.

Keywords: [mother's day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mother-s-day.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [kofi annan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kofi-annan.md), [insects](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/insects.md), [world food program](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-food-program.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Austin Ballet Performance of Swan Lake (4:04–7:17)

A personal anecdote describes attending a performance of Swan Lake by the Austin Ballet at the Long Center in Austin, Texas. The experience included the convenience of pre-paid intermission drinks in sippy cups and a reflection on the timelessness of Tchaikovsky's music since 1877. The high cost of tickets and the formal attire of the audience, including tuxedos and bow ties, are noted.

Keywords: swan lake, austin ballet, tchaikovsky, long center, nureyev

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Hugo Boss and SS Uniform History Correction (7:18–8:16)

A correction is issued regarding a previous statement about fashion designers and Nazi Germany. While Armani was previously mentioned, it was actually Hugo Boss who manufactured the uniforms for the SS and Waffen SS. The aesthetic quality of the historical Hugo Boss designs is briefly acknowledged despite the association.

Keywords: hugo boss, armani, waffen ss, [nazi germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nazi-germany.md), fashion history

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/3.md)

### 4. United Kingdom General Election Results and Proportional Representation (8:16–17:58)

The 2015 UK General Election resulted in a decisive victory for David Cameron and the Conservative Party, defying media predictions of a dead heat. The resignation of Labour leader Ed Miliband, Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg, and UKIP leader Nigel Farage followed the results. Discussion focuses on the "British arithmetic" of the electoral system, where UKIP received 13% of the vote but only one seat, leading to protests in Whitehall regarding proportional representation.

Keywords: [david cameron](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-cameron.md), [ed miliband](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ed-miliband.md), [nigel farage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nigel-farage.md), [ukip](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukip.md), [conservative party](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/conservative-party.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Germanwings Flight 9525 Preliminary Investigation Report (17:59–21:19)

A review of the preliminary report on the Germanwings Flight 9525 crash highlights new data from the recovered flight recorder. The report indicates that 33 seconds before impact, there was an input on the right-side stick that was insufficient to disengage the autopilot. This detail raises questions about whether the co-pilot had a moment of remorse or if the autopilot system was designed to be uninterruptible during the descent.

Keywords: [germanwings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germanwings.md), flight 9525, [andreas lubitz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andreas-lubitz.md), [airbus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus.md), [flight data recorder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flight-data-recorder.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/5.md)

### 6. EMP Threat Narratives in 2016 Presidential Campaign (21:20–26:26)

Republican presidential candidates Ted Cruz and Mike Huckabee are incorporating the threat of an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) attack into their campaign rhetoric. The narrative suggests that an Iranian nuclear device could be used to fry the American electrical grid. Coinciding with these warnings, NORAD announced a move back into the Cheyenne Mountain bunker to ensure protection against such pulses.

Keywords: [ted cruz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-cruz.md), [mike huckabee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-huckabee.md), [norad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/norad.md), [emp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/emp.md), cheyenne mountain

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Mike Rogers and Americans for Peace, Prosperity and Security (26:27–35:07)

Former Congressman Mike Rogers has launched a new organization called Americans for Peace, Prosperity and Security (APPS) to influence the 2016 national security debate. The group aims to move presidential candidates beyond rhetoric regarding threats from ISIS and Iran. Rogers is also reportedly launching a daily talk show on the Cumulus/Westwood One radio network, following a career path similar to other political commentators.

Keywords: [mike rogers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-rogers.md), apps, [national security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-security.md), cumulus, [westwood one](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/westwood-one.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Sofia Vergara and Nick Loeb Embryo Legal Battle (35:07–47:46)

Businessman Nick Loeb is engaged in a public legal battle with his ex-fiancée, actress Sofia Vergara, over two frozen female embryos. Loeb authored a New York Times op-ed arguing that life begins at conception and that he should be allowed to bring the embryos to term via a surrogate. The case is analyzed as a potential psychological strategy to link Hollywood figures with "heartless" Democratic values while promoting pro-life narratives.

Keywords: [sofia vergara](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sofia-vergara.md), nick loeb, [embryos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/embryos.md), [pro-life](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pro-life.md), [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/8.md)

### 9. NSA Bulk Phone Record Collection Ruled Illegal (47:48–49:26)

A federal appeals court ruled that the National Security Agency's bulk collection of American phone records is illegal. The ruling, stemming from a lawsuit filed by the ACLU following Edward Snowden's revelations, comes just before the June 1st deadline for Congress to renew Section 215 of the Patriot Act. The decision puts pressure on lawmakers regarding the proposed USA Freedom Act.

Keywords: [nsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nsa.md), [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [aclu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aclu.md), [patriot act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriot-act.md), [usa freedom act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usa-freedom-act.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/9.md)

### 10. Congressional Insider Trading and the STOCK Act (49:26–52:14)

Lawyers for the House of Representatives are arguing that the SEC cannot investigate congressional staffers for insider trading due to constitutional protections. The investigation involves Brian Sutter, a former staffer for the House Ways and Means Committee, who allegedly leaked Medicare decisions to lobbyists. Despite the passage of the STOCK Act, critics argue that transparency requirements are being bypassed or legally challenged.

Keywords: [stock act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stock-act.md), [sec](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sec.md), [john boehner](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-boehner.md), brian sutter, [insider trading](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/insider-trading.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Healthcare Bundled Payments and Diabetes Drug Price Fixing (52:14–59:15)

The healthcare industry is shifting toward "bundled payments," where insurers pay a flat fee for a procedure like a hip replacement regardless of the actual hospital stay duration. Simultaneously, a Bloomberg report indicates potential price fixing in the insulin market, where three major companies have matched price increases to the decimal point over five years. These costs have doubled despite low national inflation.

Keywords: [medicaid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medicaid.md), bundled payments, [diabetes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diabetes.md), [insulin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/insulin.md), [price fixing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/price-fixing.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/11.md)

### 12. VE Day Commemorations and Russian Victory Claims (59:16–1:03:36)

International leaders gathered in Poland and France to mark the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. While European nations held solemn ceremonies, Russia prepared for a massive military parade on May 9th, asserting that the Soviet Union was the primary force in defeating Nazi Germany. The United States' lack of a major public celebration compared to European counterparts is noted.

Keywords: [ve day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ve-day.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [ban ki-moon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ban-ki-moon.md), [poland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/poland.md), [world war ii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-war-ii.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Garry Kasparov Criticizes Obama's Russia Policy on Bill Maher (1:03:37–1:07:26)

During an appearance on Bill Maher's "Overtime," chess grandmaster and activist Garry Kasparov criticized the Obama administration's foreign policy regarding Russia. Kasparov pointed out that while the U.S. has many global bases, it had zero tanks in Europe by 2013. He highlighted that American troops are now facing Russian troops in Estonia and Latvia for the first time in recent memory.

Keywords: [garry kasparov](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/garry-kasparov.md), [bill maher](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-maher.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [nato](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nato.md), [estonia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/estonia.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Operation Atlantic Resolve and US Military Presence in Ukraine (1:07:26–1:11:45)

The Pentagon's "Operation Atlantic Resolve" is currently demonstrating U.S. commitment to European security through training missions and military exercises. Activities include training the Ukrainian National Guard and deploying naval vessels like the USS Truxtun to the Black Sea. The mission is framed as a response to Russian intervention in Ukraine and a reassurance to NATO allies.

Keywords: operation atlantic resolve, [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [nato](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nato.md), [black sea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-sea.md), [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Apple Watch Product Placement and Cultural Reception (1:11:46–1:12:28)

Observations of media figures like Charlie Rose wearing the Apple Watch suggest a coordinated product placement effort. The cultural reception of the device is described as cult-like, with some tech commentators jokingly comparing the act of showing off the watch to a collective salute.

Keywords: [apple watch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple-watch.md), [charlie rose](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charlie-rose.md), [product placement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/product-placement.md), [tech culture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tech-culture.md), [wearables](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wearables.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/15.md)

### 16. International Rescue Committee and Spying Allegations in Ukraine (1:12:29–1:20:29)

Two aid workers from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) were detained in Eastern Ukraine on suspicion of spying. An analysis of the IRC's Form 990 reveals a $450 million operation heavily funded by USAID and the British government. The organization's board and "overseers" include high-profile figures such as David Miliband, Timothy Geithner, Madeleine Albright, and Henry Kissinger.

Keywords: [international rescue committee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/international-rescue-committee.md), [david miliband](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-miliband.md), [usaid](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usaid.md), [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [kofi annan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kofi-annan.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/16.md)

### 17. No Agenda Art Generator and Creative Submissions (1:20:30–1:22:48)

The process for selecting episode artwork via the No Agenda Art Generator is detailed, emphasizing the need for original or highly derivative works to avoid copyright issues. A specific submission by "20 Watt Bulb" for episode 719 is praised for its professional quality. The hosts encourage listeners to support the show's value-for-value model to maintain independent commentary.

Keywords: [no agenda art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-art.md), 20 watt bulb, [digital art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/digital-art.md), [podcast production](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-production.md), [creative commons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/creative-commons.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Executive Producer Donations and Knighting Ceremony (1:22:50–1:29:45)

Several high-tier donors are recognized for their financial support of the program. Sir Frank Asgen Stott, Kristen Kiderman, and Sir Gene Natalia are among those contributing significant amounts. A formal knighting ceremony is conducted for Chris Kiderman, who is dubbed "Sir Chris of Carmel by the Sea" in recognition of his support.

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

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Clinton Foundation and State Department Ethics Review (1:29:47–1:35:15)

A heated exchange between a reporter and a State Department spokesperson reveals that the department did not independently review many private donations to the Clinton Foundation during Hillary Clinton's tenure. The discussion touches on the "Clinton Health Access Initiative" (CHAI) as a non-transparent entity. A comparison is drawn between the Foundation's donation structure and historical extortion methods used by the Japanese Yakuza.

Keywords: [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [clinton foundation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinton-foundation.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [memorandum of understanding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/memorandum-of-understanding.md), [yakuza](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yakuza.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Free Speech, Provocation, and the Texas Cartoon Contest (1:35:15–1:47:33)

Following an attack on a Muhammad cartoon contest in Garland, Texas, a debate has emerged regarding whether such events constitute "provocation" rather than protected speech. Commentators on MSNBC suggested that Pamela Geller's actions border on hate crimes. The discussion references the 1919 Supreme Court case Schenck v. United States and the "shouting fire in a crowded theater" analogy to explore the limits of the First Amendment.

Keywords: [pamela geller](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pamela-geller.md), [first amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/first-amendment.md), [hate speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hate-speech.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [supreme court](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/supreme-court.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Lawrence O'Donnell and the "Thug" Linguistic Debate (1:47:35–1:55:12)

MSNBC host Lawrence O'Donnell argued that the word "thug" has become a racially charged term used by racists to describe African Americans. A compilation of O'Donnell's past broadcasts, however, shows him using the word "thug" repeatedly to describe various political figures and criminals. This is presented as an example of the "insanity" and shifting standards of political correctness in modern media.

Keywords: [lawrence o'donnell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lawrence-o-donnell.md), [msnbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/msnbc.md), [thug](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/thug.md), [linguistics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linguistics.md), [political correctness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/political-correctness.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Senator Cory Booker and the Call for Viral Memes (1:55:12–1:58:31)

Senator Cory Booker expressed concern during a hearing that the U.S. government is "sucking" at social media compared to ISIS. Booker called for the government to leverage Hollywood and Silicon Valley to create "viral memes" to counter extremist messaging. The suggestion is criticized as a naive approach to complex geopolitical communication and state propaganda.

Keywords: [cory booker](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cory-booker.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [memes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/memes.md), [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Associate Executive Producer Credits and Birthday Announcements (1:58:31–2:05:53)

The show concludes its donor acknowledgments by thanking Associate Executive Producers and recognizing birthdays for listeners including Roy Leander and Oksana. Nicholas Principe is congratulated on achieving the rank of Baronet. The hosts express some disappointment regarding the recent volume of donations while reiterating the importance of the value-for-value model.

Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [birthdays](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/birthdays.md), [baronet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/baronet.md), [raleigh](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/raleigh.md), [san jose](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-jose.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/23.md)

### 24. UN Climate Change Hoax Claims and Scientific Uncertainty (2:05:54–2:15:55)

A chief business advisor to Australian PM Tony Abbott claimed that climate change is a UN-led hoax designed to establish a New World Order. Meanwhile, a study from the University of Bristol suggests that "climate denial" in public discourse causes scientists to overemphasize uncertainty in their reports. The study identifies psychological mechanisms like "stereotype threat" and "pluralistic ignorance" affecting the scientific community.

Keywords: [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [united nations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-nations.md), [tony abbott](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tony-abbott.md), university of bristol, [carbon dioxide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-dioxide.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Allergy Season Narratives and Climate Change Links (2:15:56–2:19:12)

Media reports are labeling the current allergy season a "pollen tsunami," with medical experts attributing the severity to climate change and rising CO2 levels. The discussion notes a trend of linking all environmental phenomena to global warming, despite a nine-year "drought" of major hurricanes hitting the United States since Katrina.

Keywords: [allergies](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/allergies.md), [pollen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pollen.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), [carbon dioxide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-dioxide.md), [hurricanes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hurricanes.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Charter School Funding and Accountability Concerns (2:19:12–2:29:04)

A report from the Center for Media and Democracy alleges that $3 billion in taxpayer money has been wasted on charter schools with little accountability. In Texas, the "Harmony Schools" network, linked to Turkish cleric Fethullah Gulen, is highlighted for its lack of transparency. The debate is complicated by political divides, where liberals criticize the schools but defend the Department of Education against Koch-funded efforts to dissolve it.

Keywords: [charter schools](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charter-schools.md), [department of education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/department-of-education.md), [koch brothers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/koch-brothers.md), [fethullah gulen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fethullah-gulen.md), harmony schools

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Automation, Autonomous Trucks, and Marissa Mayer's Laugh (2:29:05–2:35:47)

The rise of autonomous trucks is discussed as a "cascade effect" that could eliminate millions of jobs in the transport and service industries. Futurist Ray Kurzweil's theories on exponential technological growth are critiqued as misleading. The segment also features a clip of Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer being interviewed by Eric Schmidt, focusing on her distinctive laugh and its role in executive leadership.

Keywords: [autonomous trucks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/autonomous-trucks.md), [ray kurzweil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ray-kurzweil.md), [marissa mayer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marissa-mayer.md), [eric schmidt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eric-schmidt.md), [singularity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/singularity.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/27.md)

### 28. EU Digital Single Market and Copyright Licensing (2:35:48–2:39:11)

The European Commission is moving forward with the "Digital Single Market" plan, which aims to simplify cross-border VAT rules but also modernize copyright laws. New legal precedents in the European Court of Justice suggest that simply linking to copyrighted material could be deemed an infringement. Critics argue this represents a "boiling frog" scenario for internet freedom in Europe, potentially requiring bloggers to be licensed.

Keywords: [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), digital single market, [copyright](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/copyright.md), [vat](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vat.md), [licensing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/licensing.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Medicare Meaningful Use and Wearable Data Collection (2:39:12–2:42:38)

Phase three of the "Meaningful Use" program will reportedly require physicians to collect and share health data from 15% of their patients, including data from wearables like Fitbits. Failure to comply could result in cuts to Medicare reimbursements. This mandate is seen as a significant boon for tech companies like Apple and Fitbit as they integrate into the federal healthcare infrastructure.

Keywords: [medicare](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/medicare.md), meaningful use, [fitbit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fitbit.md), [apple watch](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple-watch.md), [health data](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/health-data.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Nike and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) (2:42:39–2:46:38)

Nike announced it would create 10,000 U.S. jobs if the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade deal is approved. President Obama visited Nike headquarters in Oregon to promote the pact, which critics argue expands corporate power and undermines labor regulations. The logic of Nike moving production back to the U.S. under a free trade deal is questioned, given the company's historical reliance on overseas labor.

Keywords: [nike](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nike.md), [tpp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tpp.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [phil knight](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/phil-knight.md), [free trade](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-trade.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Waze Traffic Issues and Morse Code Retirement (2:46:39–2:50:51)

The navigation app Waze is causing friction in Los Angeles neighborhoods by redirecting heavy traffic through quiet backstreets. In military news, Fort Huachuca in Arizona announced it will no longer teach Morse code, marking the end of an era for traditional signal training. The show concludes with a reminder of the upcoming Thursday broadcast and a final "fist bump" sign-off.

Keywords: [waze](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/waze.md), [google maps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-maps.md), [morse code](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/morse-code.md), [fort huachuca](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fort-huachuca.md), [ham radio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ham-radio.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/720-pollen-tsunami/chapter/31.md)

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