# No Agenda 008 > A deep dive into the DHS Automatic Targeting System, the global credit crunch, and the corporate scandals of Carly Fiorina and the music industry elite. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 8 - **Published:** 2007-12-15 - **Length:** 1h 8m - **Topics:** DHS Watchlists, Credit Crunch, [Bain Capital](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bain-capital.md), [Carly Fiorina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carly-fiorina.md), Ron Paul Blimp, Apple Tablet, Alan Grubman - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008 ## About this episode The Department of Homeland Security has placed Adam Curry on a lookout list generated by the Automatic Targeting System, a program that assigns threat ratings based on federal and tribal databases. This revelation follows a tense secondary interrogation at Newark Liberty Airport where Customs and Border Protection agents utilized RFID-embedded passports to track historical travel data, including a 2003 trip to Iraq. The American Civil Liberties Union warns that this system operates outside the Privacy Act, preventing citizens from contesting records that are retained for forty years. Global central banks, including the Federal Reserve, have launched a coordinated effort to stabilize markets during the subprime credit crunch through blind auctions and ten-billion-dollar loans. Meanwhile, Bain Capital, the former venture capital firm of Mitt Romney, moves forward with a leveraged buyout of Clear Channel, raising concerns about media deregulation and political influence. In the music industry, attorney Alan Grubman faces scrutiny for negotiating both sides of licensing deals, while former HP CEO Carly Fiorina addresses the 2005 boardroom scandal involving the tracking of private phone records. John C. Dvorak shares a recipe for homemade tarragon vinegar while critiquing the theology degree of Mike Huckabee. The Ron Paul Blimp emerges as a tactical maneuver to bypass traditional media gatekeepers as California moves its primary date to capture billions in political advertising. The program concludes with a look at Apple Newton patents and the future of pen-based tablet computing. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/transcript.md. ### 1. Marriage Metaphors, Cold Weather in Guilford and California (0:01–1:43) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the program by comparing the freezing temperatures in Guilford, UK, to the chilly 35-degree weather in Northern California. The hosts joke about their routine of making tea simultaneously, likening their rapport to that of an old married couple. Keywords: [guilford](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/guilford.md), [northern california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northern-california.md), fahrenheit, [tea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tea.md), marriage metaphor [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Linguistic Rant, Origins of By and Large (1:43–3:13) A discussion regarding the phrase "up and about" transitions into a critique of the idiom "by and large." The hosts express annoyance with the phrase's frequent use by politicians and CEOs like Carly Fiorina, questioning its etymological origins and its function as a filler for speakers who are stalling for time. Keywords: [carly fiorina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carly-fiorina.md), [linguistics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/linguistics.md), [by and large](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/by-and-large.md), [idioms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/idioms.md), corporate speak [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Peter Day, Carly Fiorina HP Boardroom Scandal (3:14–4:29) The BBC program Global Business, hosted by Peter Day, is highlighted for its in-depth interview with former HP CEO Carly Fiorina. The discussion references the 2005 Hewlett-Packard scandal involving the tracking of cell phone records and the impersonation of board members. Keywords: peter day, [bbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc.md), [carly fiorina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carly-fiorina.md), [hewlett-packard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hewlett-packard.md), boardroom scandal [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Jonathan Coulton, Podsafe Christmas Music Video (4:30–6:07) The hosts review a Christmas song by Jonathan Coulton that has gained popularity within the podsafe music community. They discuss the production quality of the accompanying YouTube video and the difficulty of understanding the lyrics without the on-screen text. Keywords: jonathan coulton, podsafe music, [christmas song](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/christmas-song.md), [youtube](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/youtube.md), [lyrics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lyrics.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Alan Grubman, Music Industry Legal Rackets (6:08–9:42) The conversation shifts to the power of music industry lawyer Alan Grubman and his firm's practice of negotiating both sides of licensing deals. An anecdote involving Ron Bloom and Princess Stephanie of Monaco illustrates how high-level industry connections operate in New York, while the hosts conclude that major labels are failing to adapt to new distribution models. Keywords: alan grubman, [music industry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/music-industry.md), [record labels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/record-labels.md), [ron bloom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-bloom.md), princess stephanie [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Queen Mary 2, Panama Canal Design Limitations (9:42–12:14) National Geographic's "Super Ship Saturday" prompts a discussion about the Queen Mary 2 and its massive scale compared to the Titanic. The hosts explain that the ship's width prevents it from using the Panama Canal, requiring it to travel around Cape Horn, and note that Homeland Security restrictions often prevent journalists from touring the vessel. Keywords: queen mary 2, [national geographic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/national-geographic.md), cunard, [panama canal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/panama-canal.md), [homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homeland-security.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Yacht Junkets, Seasickness on the Highlander (12:14–14:39) A story about a press trip on the Forbes yacht, the Highlander, explores the logistics of corporate junkets around Manhattan Island. The narrative focuses on the claustrophobia of being stuck on a boat during media events and the inevitability of attendees becoming seasick regardless of the vessel's size. Keywords: [forbes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/forbes.md), highlander, [yacht](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yacht.md), [manhattan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/manhattan.md), seasickness [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Automatic Targeting System, DHS Terrorist Watchlists (14:39–18:11) Adam Curry describes being placed on a "lookout list" generated by the Automatic Targeting System (ATS), a DHS program that assigns a threat rating based on various federal and tribal databases. The discussion highlights ACLU concerns regarding the 40-year data retention policy and the fact that the system operates outside the Privacy Act, preventing citizens from contesting their records. Keywords: ats, [homeland security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/homeland-security.md), [aclu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aclu.md), [privacy act](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy-act.md), [secondary screening](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secondary-screening.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/8.md) ### 9. Border Protection Interrogations, Secondary Screening Procedures (18:12–23:14) A detailed account of a recent entry into the United States via Newark Liberty Airport describes the transition from primary customs to secondary interrogation. The narrative covers the use of RFID-embedded passports, the repetitive nature of questioning by CBP agents, and the physical search of luggage and personal documents. Keywords: [cbp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cbp.md), rfid passport, [secondary screening](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secondary-screening.md), [interrogation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/interrogation.md), palace hotel [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/9.md) ### 10. TSA Jetway Encounters, Airport Security Discrepancies (23:15–26:19) The hosts compare security experiences across different U.S. airports, including Chicago, San Francisco, and Newark. One host recounts being met at the jetway by agents specifically looking for him, noting that the intensity of the search often depends on the specific resources and staffing levels of the local Customs and Border Protection office. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), chicago o'hare, [san francisco airport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco-airport.md), jetway, secondary search [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Iraq Visas, Old Passports and Tracking (26:19–28:03) Speculation arises regarding why a host is flagged by security, focusing on a 2003 trip to Iraq and various visa stamps from Kuwait. They discuss whether the transition to a new passport with an RFID chip allowed the government to more effectively track historical travel data that was previously only recorded on paper. Keywords: [iraq](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iraq.md), [kuwait](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kuwait.md), [visa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/visa.md), [passport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/passport.md), [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/11.md) ### 12. TSA Incompetence, Duty-Free Liquid Restrictions (28:04–30:35) The hosts criticize the TSA's implementation of security theater, specifically the confiscation of duty-free perfumes exceeding 110 milliliters. They question the lack of investigative journalism into the agency's hiring practices and mock the "Clear" program for encouraging citizens to voluntarily provide retinal scans and fingerprints to the government. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [newark airport](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newark-airport.md), [retinal scan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/retinal-scan.md), duty-free, [liquid ban](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/liquid-ban.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Railway Security, Hazardous Material Vulnerabilities (30:35–33:05) A report on PBS regarding the insecurity of the U.S. railway system is discussed, featuring a writer who placed fake bomb markers on hazardous material tankers. The hosts argue that current security measures are focused on harassing individuals rather than addressing systemic vulnerabilities like the transport of chlorine gas through major cities. Keywords: railway security, [chlorine gas](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chlorine-gas.md), [pbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pbs.md), bombs, hazardous materials [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Central Bank Coordination, Global Credit Crunch (33:06–35:23) The Financial Times reports on an unprecedented coordinated effort by global central banks to stabilize markets during the credit crunch. The discussion explains how the Federal Reserve and other institutions offered $10 billion loans to commercial banks to provide liquidity against subprime debt and prevent a total market collapse. Keywords: [central banks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/central-banks.md), [federal reserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/federal-reserve.md), [financial times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-times.md), [northern rock](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northern-rock.md), [credit crisis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credit-crisis.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Blind Auctions, Derivatives and Bank Liquidity (35:23–38:16) The mechanics of bank-to-bank trading and derivatives are explored, focusing on the "blind auction" system used by central banks to lend money without stigmatizing the borrowing institutions. This strategy ensures that banks have guaranteed equity to trade against for 30-day periods, theoretically preventing a freeze in the global financial system. Keywords: [derivatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/derivatives.md), blind auction, [equity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/equity.md), subprime debt, [liquidity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/liquidity.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Bain Capital, Clear Channel Acquisition (38:18–41:03) Mitt Romney's former venture capital firm, Bain Capital, is reported to be involved in the leveraged buyout of Clear Channel. The hosts discuss the potential conflict of interest regarding a presidential candidate's ties to a massive media conglomerate and the deregulation of media ownership under the FCC. Keywords: [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [bain capital](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bain-capital.md), [clear channel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clear-channel.md), [kkr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kkr.md), [fcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fcc.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Presidential Campaign Fatigue, Ross Perot Conspiracy (41:03–43:42) The hosts analyze the 2008 presidential race, noting the fatigue of candidates like Hillary Clinton and the "dark horse" status of John McCain. They revisit the 1992 Ross Perot campaign, discussing the unverified claims that Perot dropped out due to threats against his family from government black ops. Keywords: [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [ross perot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ross-perot.md), [john mccain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-mccain.md), [black ops](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-ops.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Ron Paul Blimp, California Primary Media Dollars (43:44–46:22) The emergence of the "Ron Paul Blimp" is discussed as a unique campaign tactic to bypass traditional media coverage. The hosts also explain why California moved its primary date forward to capture a larger share of the billions of dollars spent on political television and newspaper advertising. Keywords: [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md), [mike huckabee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-huckabee.md), [california primary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california-primary.md), [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), media money [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Political Ad Sales, Industry Rolodexes (46:23–48:03) A discussion on the mechanics of media sales explains why political advertising dollars rarely reach podcasting. The hosts describe how sales teams in broadcasting and publishing rely on established "Rolodexes" and why individual show producers might resist running ads for specific political candidates like Rudy Giuliani. Keywords: [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), [pc magazine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pc-magazine.md), [google adsense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-adsense.md), media sales, rolodex [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Google AdSense, Ann Coulter and Mitt Romney Ads (48:03–50:24) John Dvorak discusses the appearance of political advertisements on his blog, including ads for Ann Coulter and Mitt Romney. He notes the visual similarity between Romney and actor Treat Williams, while Adam Curry shares a listener's correction regarding the "Punch the Monkey" internet ad meme. Keywords: [google adsense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-adsense.md), [ann coulter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ann-coulter.md), [mitt romney](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mitt-romney.md), [treat williams](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/treat-williams.md), [political ads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/political-ads.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Flying in the UK, Tarragon Vinegar Recipe (50:23–52:03) Adam Curry describes the revitalizing experience of flying his plane to the south coast of England after a two-year hiatus. This leads to a culinary tip from John Dvorak on making homemade tarragon vinegar by steeping fresh herbs in white wine vinegar for several months. Keywords: [aviation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aviation.md), south coast, tarragon, [vinegar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vinegar.md), culinary tip [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/21.md) ### 22. One-Minute Tech Tips, Barefoot Doctor (52:04–53:46) The hosts announce a new series of "one-minute computer tips" for the PodShow network, inspired by similar health tips from the "Barefoot Doctor." The segment also touches on the relaxation of British drinking laws, which now allow pubs to remain open 24 hours a day. Keywords: tech tips, barefoot doctor, drinking laws, [britain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/britain.md), [hangovers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hangovers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Apple Tablet Rumors, Newton Pen Patents (53:47–55:25) A source close to Apple suggests the company is developing a new, ultra-light, pen-based computer. The device reportedly utilizes "write anywhere" patents dating back to the Newton era, combined with modern multi-touch technology to create a tablet-sized computing experience. Keywords: [apple](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple.md), [mac](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mac.md), [tablet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tablet.md), light pen, [newton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newton.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Dvorak.org Blog Management, Mike Huckabee Theology (55:27–58:23) John Dvorak explains the decentralized management of his blog, which is maintained by a group of "retired geezers" and libertarian-leaning volunteers. He mentions a recent post questioning Mike Huckabee's theology degree as an example of the content his self-selecting group of contributors produces. Keywords: [mike huckabee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-huckabee.md), [dvorak.org](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dvorak-org.md), [blogging](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blogging.md), [moderators](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moderators.md), theology degree [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Cage Match BBS, Daily Source Code Savants (58:23–1:00:58) The "Cage Match" bulletin board system is identified as an independent entity within the Dvorak empire, managed by volunteers Bubba and Catherine. Adam Curry compares this community-driven model to his "Daily Source Code" listeners, who contribute songs and segments to the show. Keywords: [cage match](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cage-match.md), [bbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbs.md), [daily source code](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-source-code.md), [community](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/community.md), contributors [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Blog Monetization, Google Ads vs. Cellertainment (1:00:59–1:04:23) The hosts debate the effectiveness of Google AdSense, with Dvorak claiming that a million page views only generate about $1,000 a month. They contrast this with "Cellertainment" models and affiliate programs like GoDaddy and Amazon, which offer higher revenue potential for independent media creators. Keywords: [google ads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-ads.md), page views, cellertainment, [godaddy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/godaddy.md), [amazon affiliates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon-affiliates.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/26.md) ### 27. Economic Hitmen, Michael Crichton's Next (1:04:24–1:07:05) The discussion returns briefly to international banking with a recommendation for the book "Confessions of an Economic Hitman." John Dvorak also recommends Michael Crichton's novel "Next," which explores the future of DNA ownership and genetic engineering. Keywords: [michael crichton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-crichton.md), [dna](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dna.md), [genetics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/genetics.md), [economic hitman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-hitman.md), [banking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/banking.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Celebrity Biographies, Show Outro (1:07:06–1:08:12) Adam Curry laments the lack of serious historical biographies at UK airports, noting that the sections are dominated by books about David Beckham and the Spice Girls. The hosts sign off from the Curry Manor and Northern California, concluding the episode. Keywords: [david beckham](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-beckham.md), [spice girls](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spice-girls.md), [eisenhower](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eisenhower.md), [biography](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/biography.md), [podshow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podshow.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/8-no-agenda-008/chapter/28.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/7-no-agenda-007.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/9-no-agenda-009.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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