# Thermostat Placebo > Media manipulation takes center stage as record-breaking debate ratings collide with subliminal branding and a legislative push for mandatory social media surveillance. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 746 - **Published:** 2015-08-09 - **Length:** 2h 41m - **Topics:** Fox Debate, CISA Bill, [Iran Deal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran-deal.md), Placebo Thermostats, Tesla Hacking, Pyongyang Time - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo ## About this episode Fox News and the Republican National Committee shattered cable records as 24 million viewers tuned in for the first primary debate, yet the broadcast faced immediate scrutiny for its production choices. Analysis of the visual framing reveals a potential bias in candidate introductions, where the prominent placement of the Facebook logo appeared to serve as a subliminal grading system for participants like Donald Trump and Ted Cruz. This high-stakes media event highlighted a growing rift between traditional conservative gatekeepers and the populist energy surrounding the 2015 election cycle. Beyond the debate stage, the Senate Intelligence Authorization Act for 2016 introduced Section 603, a controversial measure requiring social media companies to report suspected terrorist activity to federal authorities. In the Middle East, President Obama defended the Iran nuclear deal at American University, while Kurdish forces in Syria seized abandoned oil refineries to establish local energy independence. Meanwhile, the World Anti-Doping Agency faced a massive data leak exposing widespread corruption in international athletics, and the Pentagon attributed a sophisticated cyberattack on the Joint Chiefs of Staff to Russian state actors despite a lack of official White House confirmation. Technical oddities surfaced during the week as Amazon Echo devices were repeatedly triggered by the word elections, raising significant privacy concerns for smart-speaker owners. The episode also explores the curious history of placebo thermostats in corporate offices and the marketing-driven breakup of Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog. Listeners from the UAE provide a unique perspective on how Gulf leaders view the American political landscape, while the No Agenda community celebrates new life and knightings in the Round Table. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/transcript.md. ### 1. Fox News Republican Debate Ratings, Cable Television Records (0:00–2:26) The first Republican primary debate of the 2015 cycle drew 24 million viewers on Fox News, setting a record for a non-sporting event on cable television. While the figures were high for cable, they remained significantly lower than the 88 million viewers who watched the 1980 Reagan-Carter debate on broadcast networks. Keywords: [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), [republican debate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republican-debate.md), [ratings](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ratings.md), [cable tv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cable-tv.md), [nielsen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nielsen.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Facebook Logo Subliminal Messaging, Fox News Bias Claims (2:28–6:11) Analysis of the Fox News debate broadcast suggests the prominent placement of the Facebook "F" logo next to candidates served as a subliminal "fail" grade. Claims are made that Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg's Democratic ties influenced the production, while Mark Zuckerberg's political interests are characterized as focused primarily on H1B visa expansion and immigration. Keywords: [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), [mark zuckerberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-zuckerberg.md), [sheryl sandberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sheryl-sandberg.md), [subliminal messaging](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/subliminal-messaging.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Megyn Kelly Focus Group, Donald Trump Media Treatment (6:11–8:38) Fox News host Megyn Kelly and pollster Frank Luntz are accused of using rigged focus groups to create a narrative of declining support for Donald Trump. Audio clips from the post-debate coverage show participants criticizing Trump's "whining" and "crony capitalism" while praising other candidates for their professional demeanor. Keywords: [megyn kelly](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/megyn-kelly.md), [frank luntz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/frank-luntz.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), [focus group](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/focus-group.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Visual Graphics Analysis, Fox News Candidate Favoritism (8:39–10:22) A detailed review of the candidate introductions reveals variations in how the Facebook and Fox logos were framed, suggesting a hierarchy of favoritism. Candidates like Jeb Bush and Scott Walker received cleaner shots without the "F" logo, while Ted Cruz and Donald Trump were framed with large, stationary logos interpreted as negative branding. Keywords: [jeb bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jeb-bush.md), [scott walker](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/scott-walker.md), [ben carson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ben-carson.md), [ted cruz](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-cruz.md), on-screen graphics [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Ben Carson Interrogation Comments, Geneva Convention Discussion (10:23–12:21) Dr. Ben Carson's debate performance is criticized following his refusal to rule out waterboarding or "enhanced interrogation" techniques. Carson argued that war should not be "politically correct," a stance interpreted by some as a disregard for international law and the Geneva Conventions. Keywords: [ben carson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ben-carson.md), [waterboarding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/waterboarding.md), [torture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/torture.md), [geneva convention](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geneva-convention.md), [interrogation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/interrogation.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Donald Trump Immigration Claims, Mexican Government Comic Book (12:23–16:36) Donald Trump defended his claims that the Mexican government intentionally sends "bad" people across the U.S. border to avoid social costs. The discussion references a 2005 Mexican comic book that allegedly provided instructions on how to cross the border illegally and navigate the American system. Keywords: [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [immigration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/immigration.md), [mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mexico.md), [border patrol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/border-patrol.md), comic book [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Lindsey Graham Debate Performance, Subliminal Audio Gaffes (16:38–19:47) Senator Lindsey Graham's performance in the "happy hour" debate is analyzed, focusing on his emotional appeal regarding Social Security and his family history. A specific audio moment where a moderator used the word "query" is highlighted as a potential subliminal jab at the Senator's personal life. Keywords: [lindsey graham](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lindsey-graham.md), [social security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-security.md), [fox news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fox-news.md), subliminal, query [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Amazon Echo Security, Alexa Wake Word Glitches (19:48–21:23) The Amazon Echo smart speaker reportedly triggered multiple times during the debate broadcast because the wake word "Alexa" sounds similar to the word "elections." This is cited as a significant security and privacy concern for users whose devices may record or act on television audio. Keywords: [amazon echo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon-echo.md), [alexa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alexa.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), [security breach](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security-breach.md), [smart speakers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smart-speakers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Marco Rubio Economic Claims, Rand Paul Campaign Strategy (21:23–24:20) Senator Marco Rubio is criticized for claiming the 2015 economy was "dramatically different" from five years prior. Additionally, Rand Paul's aggressive debate strategy against Donald Trump is discussed in the context of his campaign manager's appearance on the Chris Matthews show. Keywords: [marco rubio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marco-rubio.md), [rand paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rand-paul.md), [chris matthews](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-matthews.md), [economy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economy.md), [campaign manager](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-manager.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Carly Fiorina Closing Statement, Hillary Clinton Criticism (24:21–27:31) Carly Fiorina is praised for a strong closing statement that directly targeted Hillary Clinton's record on Benghazi and emails. In contrast, Lindsey Graham's closing remarks focused heavily on the Iranian nuclear threat and the radical nature of the Ayatollah. Keywords: [carly fiorina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carly-fiorina.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [benghazi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/benghazi.md), [planned parenthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/planned-parenthood.md), [2016 election](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/2016-election.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Donald Trump Campaign Contributions, Hillary Clinton Wedding Attendance (27:31–30:17) Donald Trump openly admitted during the debate that he used campaign contributions to buy influence with politicians like Hillary Clinton and Nancy Pelosi. He cited Clinton's attendance at his wedding as a specific example of the transactional nature of the American political system. Keywords: [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [nancy pelosi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nancy-pelosi.md), [campaign finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance.md), [cronyism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cronyism.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/11.md) ### 12. iSideWith.com Questionnaire, Millennial Political Slant (30:17–40:26) A live walkthrough of the iSideWith.com political questionnaire explores how the site matches users with candidates. Despite answering with a mix of views, the results often skew toward Bernie Sanders for millennials, though a host's test resulted in a tie between Marco Rubio and Mike Huckabee. Keywords: isidewith, [bernie sanders](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bernie-sanders.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [millennials](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/millennials.md), political quiz [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/12.md) ### 13. PBS NewsHour Analysis, Mark Shields on Trump (40:27–43:51) Pundits Mark Shields and David Brooks discussed Donald Trump's debate performance on the PBS NewsHour, with Shields arguing that Trump's attack on Megyn Kelly was a strategic mistake. The segment also addresses the "Mother Church" status of Fox News for conservative voters. Keywords: [pbs newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs-newshour.md), [mark shields](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mark-shields.md), [david brooks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-brooks.md), [judy woodruff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/judy-woodruff.md), [megyn kelly](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/megyn-kelly.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Fosbury Flop Analogy, Political Methodology Changes (43:51–45:21) The "Fosbury Flop" in high jumping is used as an analogy for how new technology or environments allow for radical changes in methodology. Just as foam pits allowed jumpers to land on their backs, changing media landscapes allow candidates like Donald Trump to ignore traditional political rules. Keywords: fosbury flop, high jump, dick fosbury, [olympics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/olympics.md), [technology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/technology.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Diamond and Silk, Trump YouTube Support (45:22–50:58) A viral YouTube video featuring two women, later known as Diamond and Silk, shows them "stumping for Trump" and praising his independence from donors. The hosts discuss whether the support is organic or orchestrated, noting how Trump embodies the classic American success story. Keywords: [diamond and silk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/diamond-and-silk.md), [youtube](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/youtube.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), stump for the trump, [viral video](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/viral-video.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/15.md) ### 16. No Agenda Show Logistics, Episode 746 Introduction (50:58–52:50) The hosts transition into the administrative portion of the show, discussing listener feedback and the artwork for episode 745 provided by Rob Little. They reiterate the show's "Value for Value" model, noting the absence of traditional corporate sponsors. Keywords: [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), rob little [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Executive Producer Credits, Listener Donations (52:51–1:00:37) The show acknowledges high-tier donors, including "P-Anonymous" and Joni Audufre, for their financial support. Personal notes from listeners are read, covering topics from wedding anniversaries to new listener recruits and birthday wishes. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [executive producer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/executive-producer.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), p-anonymous, joni audufre [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Mile High Club, Show 747 Promotion (1:00:38–1:02:48) The hosts announce a "Mile High Club" theme for the upcoming episode 747, encouraging $52.80 donations to match the altitude of a mile. Artists are invited to submit logos for the club to be featured in the newsletter and on mobile lock screens. Keywords: [mile high club](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mile-high-club.md), [boeing 747](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boeing-747.md), [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [artwork](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/artwork.md), [newsletter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newsletter.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Office Temperature Study, Placebo Thermostats (1:02:50–1:07:38) A widely reported study claiming office temperatures are biased against women is debunked as being based on a sample size of only 16 participants. An anecdote from an HVAC professional describes the use of "placebo thermostats"—unconnected devices installed to give employees a sense of control over their environment. Keywords: [hvac](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hvac.md), thermostats, [nature journal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nature-journal.md), [gender gap](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gender-gap.md), [placebo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/placebo.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/19.md) ### 20. CISA Cybersecurity Bill, Mandatory Terrorist Reporting (1:07:39–1:10:25) The Senate's Intelligence Authorization Act for 2016 included Section 603, which would require social media companies to report "actual knowledge" of terrorist activity to authorities. Critics view this as a significant burden on Silicon Valley firms like Twitter and Facebook. Keywords: [cisa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cisa.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [intelligence authorization act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intelligence-authorization-act.md), section 603, [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Wildfire Reporting Bias, Amy Goodman vs Judy Woodruff (1:10:26–1:12:50) A comparison of wildfire reporting between PBS NewsHour and Democracy Now! highlights how different outlets frame natural disasters. While Judy Woodruff provided standard statistics, Amy Goodman linked the California fires to a "drought-fueled" climate change agenda. Keywords: [wildfires](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wildfires.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [amy goodman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amy-goodman.md), [democracy now](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/democracy-now.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Obama Iran Deal Speech, Nobel Peace Prize Irony (1:12:52–1:21:16) President Obama's speech at American University defending the Iran nuclear deal is analyzed for its hawkish rhetoric. Despite his Nobel Peace Prize, Obama noted he has ordered military action in seven countries, leading to characterizations of the President as a "warmonger" who views war as the only alternative to the deal. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [iran deal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran-deal.md), nuclear treaty, [nobel peace prize](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nobel-peace-prize.md), [warmonger](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/warmonger.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/22.md) ### 23. European Migrant Crisis, Australian Border Policy (1:21:16–1:25:33) The escalating migrant crisis in Europe is discussed, focusing on the 750% increase in arrivals in Greece and the dangerous crossings from Libya. The segment contrasts European struggles with Australia's "harsh" border controls under Prime Minister Tony Abbott, which involve turning boats back at sea. Keywords: [greece](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/greece.md), [calais](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/calais.md), [mediterranean](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mediterranean.md), [tony abbott](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tony-abbott.md), [asylum seekers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/asylum-seekers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Passport Revocation Bill, Edward Snowden Exit Controls (1:25:34–1:28:00) House Bill HR 237 proposes giving the Secretary of State discretion to revoke the passports of American citizens suspected of terrorist affiliations. The discussion touches on the legality of such moves and the lack of formal exit controls for travelers leaving the United States. Keywords: hr 237, [passport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/passport.md), [edward snowden](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/edward-snowden.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), exit visas [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Selective Eating Disorder, Pediatric Mental Health (1:28:02–1:30:18) A Duke University study suggests that "picky eating" in preschoolers may be a symptom of deeper psychiatric issues like depression or ADHD. Critics argue this is a path toward over-medicating children for normal behavioral variations. Keywords: [dsm-5](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dsm-5.md), picky eaters, [adhd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adhd.md), [depression](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/depression.md), [duke university](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/duke-university.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/25.md) ### 26. World Anti-Doping Agency, Lance Armstrong Vendetta (1:30:20–1:31:56) The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is investigating allegations of widespread doping in international athletics following a data leak. The conversation references the downfall of Lance Armstrong, suggesting his case was driven by a personal vendetta. Keywords: [wada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wada.md), [doping](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/doping.md), [athletics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/athletics.md), [lance armstrong](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lance-armstrong.md), [blood tests](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blood-tests.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Pentagon Email Hack, Russian Attribution Claims (1:31:56–1:34:24) Unnamed sources within the Pentagon attributed a sophisticated cyberattack on the Joint Chiefs of Staff's unclassified email system to Russia. However, White House spokesperson Josh Earnest declined to officially name a culprit, leading to accusations of media manipulation. Keywords: [pentagon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pentagon.md), [joint chiefs of staff](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joint-chiefs-of-staff.md), [hacking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hacking.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [josh earnest](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/josh-earnest.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/27.md) ### 28. PBS NewsHour Modernization, Sound Effect Segues (1:34:24–1:35:54) The PBS NewsHour has reportedly updated its production style with new sets and jazzy sound effects in an attempt to modernize. The changes are attributed to influence from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, though the new audio segues are described as "lame." Keywords: [pbs newshour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs-newshour.md), [bill gates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bill-gates.md), [melinda gates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/melinda-gates.md), broadcast style, segues [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Charlie Rose Native Advertising, Fish Concert Promotion (1:35:53–1:41:42) Charlie Rose is accused of using his PBS show for "native advertising" by promoting specific movies and Phish concert dates during his weekend wrap-up. The promotion of a Phish show in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, is cited as an example of potential corruption in public broadcasting. Keywords: [charlie rose](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/charlie-rose.md), [pbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs.md), [cbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbs.md), [native advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/native-advertising.md), phish [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Bobbi Kristina Brown Lawsuit, Nick Gordon Allegations (1:41:42–1:43:25) A lawsuit filed against Nick Gordon alleges he gave Bobbi Kristina Brown a "toxic cocktail" before placing her face-down in a bathtub. The case involves claims of domestic disputes and financial motives following the death of Whitney Houston's daughter. Keywords: bobbi kristina brown, nick gordon, [whitney houston](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/whitney-houston.md), [lawsuit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lawsuit.md), toxic cocktail [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Planned Parenthood History, Margaret Sanger Eugenics (1:43:27–1:48:26) Ken Blackwell of the Family Research Council discussed the eugenics-based roots of Planned Parenthood and founder Margaret Sanger. The segment also explores the role of religion in maintaining a moral framework for democracy, suggesting that without it, society relies solely on government and television for ethics. Keywords: [planned parenthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/planned-parenthood.md), [margaret sanger](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/margaret-sanger.md), [eugenics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eugenics.md), [family research council](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/family-research-council.md), [religion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/religion.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/31.md) ### 32. San Francisco Biking, Traffic Ticket Disputes (1:48:27–1:50:23) A listener from San Francisco describes a protest regarding "The Wiggle" cycling path, where police have been ticketing cyclists for failing to stop. The discussion shifts to the general difficulty of driving in San Francisco and the aggressive nature of the city's traffic. Keywords: [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), [cycling](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cycling.md), traffic tickets, wiggle, [road safety](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/road-safety.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Anniversary Donations, Global Listener Shoutouts (1:50:26–1:54:21) The hosts read a long list of $88.15 donations made in honor of a wedding anniversary. Contributors from Alberta, Wisconsin, Australia, and Germany are acknowledged, with some requesting title changes or personalized cards. Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anniversary.md), [canada](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canada.md), [australia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/australia.md), [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/33.md) ### 34. NASA New Horizons Pluto Data, Transmission Speed Skepticism (1:54:22–1:57:47) Calculations regarding the New Horizons mission to Pluto suggest that transmitting 64 gigabytes of data at the reported slow speeds would take nearly a decade, rather than the 16 months claimed by NASA. This discrepancy leads to skepticism about the mission's technical transparency and funding motives. Keywords: [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), [pluto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pluto.md), new horizons, [data transmission](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/data-transmission.md), baud rate [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Defcon Meetup, No Agenda Community Updates (1:57:48–2:03:47) Updates from the No Agenda community include a report from a Defcon 23 meetup and shoutouts to listeners in the Philippines and New Zealand. A "make good" is performed for Oscar Schenck, promoting his private surf school, Hot Zone Surf. Keywords: [defcon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/defcon.md), [meetup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meetup.md), [philippines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/philippines.md), [mile high club](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mile-high-club.md), hot zone surf [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/35.md) ### 36. VoidZero Baby Announcement, Knighting Ceremony (2:03:47–2:07:25) Mark "VoidZero," who manages the show's technical infrastructure, is congratulated on the news of an upcoming baby boy. The segment concludes with a formal "knighting" ceremony for P-Anonymous and John Atima, inducting them into the No Agenda Round Table. Keywords: [voidzero](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voidzero.md), [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), p-anonymous, john atima [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/36.md) ### 37. Death Valley Moving Rocks, NASA Research Funding (2:07:26–2:12:23) The mystery of the "wandering rocks" in Death Valley's Racetrack Playa was solved by researchers who observed thin sheets of ice pushing the stones across the mud. NASA's involvement in a 10-year study of these rocks is questioned as a potential waste of space-exploration funds. Keywords: [death valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/death-valley.md), sailing stones, [nasa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasa.md), ice sheets, racetrack playa [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/37.md) ### 38. Tesla Hacking, Defcon Cybersecurity News (2:12:24–2:16:22) At the Black Hat and Defcon security conferences, researchers demonstrated that Tesla vehicles and Android fingerprints are vulnerable to hacking. Additionally, a new digital mode for ham radio called FSQ (Fast Simple QSO) is introduced for high-frequency chat and file transfers. Keywords: [tesla](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tesla.md), [hacking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hacking.md), [defcon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/defcon.md), [black hat](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-hat.md), [fireeye](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fireeye.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/38.md) ### 39. North Korea Time Zone, Japanese Colonial History (2:16:23–2:21:50) North Korea announced the creation of "Pyongyang Time," setting its clocks back 30 minutes to break from the time zone imposed during Japanese colonial rule. While media outlets portrayed the move as erratic, historical context shows it is a return to the original Korean time zone used before 1910. Keywords: [north korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-korea.md), pyongyang time, [kim jong un](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kim-jong-un.md), [japan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/japan.md), time zone [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/39.md) ### 40. Celebrity Breakups, Muppets Primetime Promotion (2:21:50–2:24:57) A string of high-profile celebrity breakups, including Gwen Stefani and Zayn Malik, culminated in the "split" of Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog. The Muppet breakup is identified as a marketing stunt to promote their new primetime television show. Keywords: miss piggy, [kermit the frog](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kermit-the-frog.md), [gwen stefani](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gwen-stefani.md), zayn malik, [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/40.md) ### 41. UAE Perspective on Trump, Middle East Leadership (2:24:58–2:28:03) A letter from a resident in the UAE describes how Gulf Arab leaders view President Obama as weak compared to the "great man" leadership style they respect. Donald Trump's background as a businessman is seen as a positive attribute in a culture that values successful negotiators. Keywords: [uae](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uae.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [leadership](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/leadership.md), [gulf coast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gulf-coast.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/41.md) ### 42. Water Fluoridation Debate, Kentucky Cavity Study (2:28:05–2:32:13) Research into water fluoridation in Kentucky shows that cavity rates nearly doubled after fluoridation became law. The discussion explores the history of fluoride as an industrial waste product and its alleged use in covert operations to make populations more docile. Keywords: [fluoride](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fluoride.md), [water supply](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/water-supply.md), [kentucky](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kentucky.md), cavities, [mimi dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mimi-dvorak.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/42.md) ### 43. Syrian Oil Refineries, Kurdish Energy Production (2:32:13–2:36:44) In northeastern Syria, Kurdish authorities have taken over abandoned oil fields and established makeshift refineries to meet local energy needs. The geopolitical struggle involves competing pipeline interests between Qatar, Turkey, and Iran, with Turkey positioning itself as a primary energy hub for Europe. Keywords: [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [kurds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kurds.md), [oil refineries](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-refineries.md), [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [pipelines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pipelines.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/43.md) ### 44. Show Outro, Predator Drone Sign-off (2:36:45–2:41:38) The hosts conclude the episode by reflecting on the "mind control" of the political debates and thanking the listeners for their support. The show ends with the traditional "predator drones" sign-off and a series of audio clips. Keywords: [sign-off](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sign-off.md), [predator drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/predator-drones.md), [adios mofo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adios-mofo.md), [podcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast.md), [credits](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credits.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/746-thermostat-placebo/chapter/44.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/745-unicorn.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/747-heteronormative.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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