# Ant Wars > The media establishment grapples with a shifting political landscape as the Trump transition team challenges journalistic norms and international diplomatic protocols from London to Moscow. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 881 - **Published:** 2016-11-27 - **Length:** 2h 55m - **Topics:** [Trump Transition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trump-transition.md), PropOrNot, NATO Spending, [Steve Bannon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/steve-bannon.md), Ant Wars, [Media Bias](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-bias.md), [Zwarte Piet](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zwarte-piet.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars ## About this episode Donald Trump and Steve Bannon face intense media scrutiny as the transition team navigates allegations of alt-right ties and internal policy shifts. While The New York Times editorial board describes a defensive meeting with the President-elect, the administration signals a potential reversal on waterboarding following consultations with General James Mattis. Tensions escalate further as Trump suggests Nigel Farage for UK Ambassador, sparking backlash within the House of Commons. Mainstream outlets including CNN and The Washington Post face criticism for promoting PropOrNot, a controversial blacklist targeting independent news sites like Zero Hedge as Russian propaganda. Christiane Amanpour’s recent CPJ award speech serves as a flashpoint for debates on media echo chambers and the suppression of dissenting views on climate change. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg signals a shift toward increased European defense spending, and Professor Stephen Cohen warns of a potential hot war with Russia over the Donbass region and Syrian interests. John C. Dvorak attempts a recorder performance during a formal knighting ceremony for a high-tier executive producer. Adam Curry details the intensifying Zwarte Piet controversy in the Netherlands and the racism directed at politician Sylvana Simons. The program concludes with a look at the emerging threat of an Ethiopian ant supercolony and the absurdity of NPR segments dedicated to the science of massaging kale. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/transcript.md. ### 1. Adam Curry, John C. Dvorak, Mold Susceptibility (0:00–2:06) Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the program from Austin and Northern Silicon Valley. Curry describes suffering from a seasonal mold allergy that causes extreme fatigue, despite using HEPA filters and ozone treatments. The hosts establish the date as November 27, 2016, for Episode 881. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [mold](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mold.md), [hepa filter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hepa-filter.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), [austin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/austin.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Weather Reporting, Media Accountability (2:07–2:58) A news clip features a weather report where the anchor expresses outrage over sunny conditions despite predictions of rain. The hosts use the clip to highlight perceived incompetence in local news broadcasting. Keywords: [weather report](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/weather-report.md), [news anchor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/news-anchor.md), rain clouds, [media criticism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/media-criticism.md), sunshine [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Christiane Amanpour, CPJ Award, Climate Change Statistics (3:00–9:13) CNN's Christiane Amanpour receives the Burton Benjamin Memorial Award from the Committee to Protect Journalists. During her acceptance speech, she claims 99.9% of scientists agree on global warming and argues against providing equal airtime to "deniers." The hosts dispute her statistics and analyze her comments regarding her past reporting on the Bosnian genocide. Keywords: [christiane amanpour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/christiane-amanpour.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [climate change](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climate-change.md), committee to protect journalists, [bosnia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bosnia.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/3.md) ### 4. Social Media, Fake News, Foreign Hacking Claims (9:14–14:48) Christiane Amanpour addresses the "tsunami of fake news" and the role of social media in bypassing traditional media gatekeepers. She calls for Facebook and advertisers to crack down on false reports and suggests that foreign powers like Russia are hacking democratic systems in the U.S., Germany, and France. Keywords: [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md), [fake news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fake-news.md), [facebook](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/facebook.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [christiane amanpour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/christiane-amanpour.md), [echo chambers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/echo-chambers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Media Echo Chambers, NPI Conference, YouTube Search (14:49–16:27) The hosts criticize journalists for reporting on the National Policy Institute (NPI) conference without watching the actual video footage. They discuss the difficulty of finding specific content on YouTube due to poor search algorithms and date ordering. Keywords: npi conference, [alt-right](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alt-right.md), [youtube](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/youtube.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [echo chambers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/echo-chambers.md), heil trump [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Newsroom Hierarchy, Liberal Bias, Media Demise (16:27–18:53) John C. Dvorak describes the internal hierarchy of newsrooms, noting a lack of conservative voices among reporters and editors. The hosts argue that the mainstream media is out of touch with society and failed to predict its own decline or the rise of Donald Trump. Keywords: [newsroom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newsroom.md), [editors](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/editors.md), [progressives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/progressives.md), [david brooks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-brooks.md), media business, [trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trump.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/6.md) ### 7. Tribune Company, Craigslist, Hearst Media Failures (18:53–20:37) The hosts recount meetings with the Tribune Company and Hearst executives in the mid-1990s. They highlight the failure of these media giants to recognize the threat posed by Craigslist to their classified ad revenue, despite Craig Newmark offering them the product. Keywords: tribune company, [craigslist](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/craigslist.md), [craig newmark](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/craig-newmark.md), [hearst](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hearst.md), [classified ads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/classified-ads.md), vignette [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/7.md) ### 8. Andrea Mitchell, NBC News, Mein Kampf Translation (20:37–22:17) Andrea Mitchell reports on white supremacist support for Donald Trump, specifically referencing a "Heil Victory" meeting. She provides a translation of "my struggle" as "Mein Kampf" to link the movement to Nazi ideology. Keywords: [andrea mitchell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andrea-mitchell.md), [nbc news](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nbc-news.md), [mein kampf](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mein-kampf.md), [white supremacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-supremacy.md), [election cycle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-cycle.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/8.md) ### 9. New York Times Podcast, Donald Trump Meeting (22:18–27:54) The New York Times podcast "The Run-Up" features reporters Maggie Haberman and Michael Barbaro discussing Donald Trump's visit to their editorial board. They describe Trump's demeanor as defensive and compare him to an "unhappy kid." Trump reportedly mentioned a secret fear held by Barack Obama but refused to disclose details. Keywords: the run-up, [maggie haberman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/maggie-haberman.md), michael barbaro, [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Journalism Style, Trumpism, Economic Philosophy (27:55–30:23) Reporters discuss the experience of interviewing Donald Trump and his reaction to being identified by New York Times staff. The conversation touches on the conflict between "Trumpism" as an economic philosophy and the views of Paul Ryan. Keywords: [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [trumpism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trumpism.md), [paul ryan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paul-ryan.md), [infrastructure](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/infrastructure.md), economic philosophy [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Steve Bannon, Breitbart, Seinfeld Royalties (30:24–34:13) The hosts analyze Steve Bannon's role in the Trump administration, noting his background at Goldman Sachs and his investment in the television show Seinfeld. They argue that Bannon is an economic strategist rather than an alt-right propagandist and mention that the New York Times admitted there is no hard evidence of him making anti-Semitic statements. Keywords: [steve bannon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/steve-bannon.md), [breitbart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/breitbart.md), [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [seinfeld](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/seinfeld.md), [anti-semitism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anti-semitism.md), [bond market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bond-market.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/11.md) ### 12. New York Times Reporter Style, Sloppy Appearance (34:14–35:40) A discussion focuses on the changing appearance of New York Times reporters, contrasting the "buttoned-down" style of past journalists like Andrew Ross Sorkin with the perceived "sloppy" appearance of newer staff members. Keywords: [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md), [andrew ross sorkin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andrew-ross-sorkin.md), [fashion](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fashion.md), [journalism standards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism-standards.md), slobs [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Trump and Bannon, Media Smugness, Sanctimonious Git (35:41–41:21) Donald Trump defends Steve Bannon against allegations of alt-right ties, suggesting he would fire Bannon if such claims were proven. The hosts criticize the "seductive" nature of Trump's interviewing style as described by journalists and define the term "sanctimonious git." Keywords: [steve bannon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/steve-bannon.md), [breitbart](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/breitbart.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [urban dictionary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/urban-dictionary.md), smugness [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Post-Truth, Oxford Dictionary, RT Analysis (41:22–44:36) The Oxford Dictionary names "post-truth" as the word of the year for 2016. An RT segment defines the term as a shift where emotion outweighs objective facts in public opinion. The hosts argue that a lack of investigative resources in corporate media leads to the repetition of political lies. Keywords: [post-truth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/post-truth.md), [oxford dictionary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oxford-dictionary.md), [rt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/rt.md), [investigative journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/investigative-journalism.md), [aleppo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aleppo.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/14.md) ### 15. Filter Bubbles, The Bubble Community, Election Denial (44:36–46:24) The hosts discuss "filter bubbles" and how media outlets and pollsters were trapped in a reality where a Trump victory was considered impossible. They reference a Saturday Night Live skit about "The Bubble," a planned community for progressives to escape the election results. Keywords: filter bubble, [saturday night live](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/saturday-night-live.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [election results](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-results.md), [progressives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/progressives.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/15.md) ### 16. PropOrNot, Washington Post, Neo-McCarthyism (46:26–49:54) The Washington Post promotes a website called PropOrNot, which features a blacklist of sites allegedly spreading Russian propaganda. The list includes Zero Hedge, the Corbett Report, and Ron Paul. The hosts label this "Neo-McCarthyism" and criticize the Post for publishing what they deem fake news. Keywords: propornot, [washington post](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-post.md), [jeff bezos](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jeff-bezos.md), [blacklist](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blacklist.md), [zero hedge](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zero-hedge.md), [ron paul](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ron-paul.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Stephen Cohen, Russia Relations, U-2 Spy Planes (49:55–53:10) Professor Stephen Cohen discusses the potential for a "hot war" with Russia in the Baltics, Ukraine, or Syria. He warns that Trump will face opposition from a pro-Cold War coalition if he seeks detente with Putin. Additionally, the hosts note the return of U-2 spy planes to active service. Keywords: [stephen cohen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stephen-cohen.md), [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [cold war](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cold-war.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), u-2 dragon lady, lockheed [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/17.md) ### 18. Putin's Political Pressure, Ukraine and Syria Deal (53:11–55:07) Stephen Cohen explains the internal political pressure Vladimir Putin faces in Moscow from ultra-nationalists. There are concerns in Russia that Putin might "sell out" ethnic Russians in Ukraine's Donbass region in exchange for a deal with the Obama administration regarding Syria. Keywords: [vladimir putin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vladimir-putin.md), [ukraine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ukraine.md), [syria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/syria.md), [moscow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/moscow.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), ultra-nationalists [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/18.md) ### 19. CNN U-2 Access, ISIS Reconnaissance, Lockheed Sales (55:07–58:54) CNN receives rare access to a U-2 spy plane mission targeting ISIS. The report highlights technological upgrades to the 1950s-era aircraft. The hosts characterize the segment as a "sales job" for Lockheed Martin's military hardware. Keywords: [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), u-2 spy plane, [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), [global hawk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-hawk.md), [drones](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drones.md), [lockheed martin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lockheed-martin.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/19.md) ### 20. State Department Briefing, NATO Buildup, Iran Missile Defense (58:54–1:03:39) RT reporter Gayane Chichakyan questions State Department spokesperson John Kirby about NATO's buildup near the Russian border. Associated Press reporter Matt Lee challenges Kirby on the necessity of a European missile defense system if the Iran nuclear deal was successful. Keywords: [john kirby](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-kirby.md), [matt lee](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/matt-lee.md), [nato](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nato.md), [kaliningrad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kaliningrad.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [missile defense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/missile-defense.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Jens Stoltenberg, NATO Spending, European Army (1:03:40–1:06:03) NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg agrees with Donald Trump's demand that European nations increase defense spending. Currently, only five countries meet the 2% GDP target. The hosts also discuss the possibility of Europe implementing an "Iron Dome" defense system. Keywords: [jens stoltenberg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jens-stoltenberg.md), [nato](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nato.md), [defense spending](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/defense-spending.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [gdp](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gdp.md), [iron dome](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iron-dome.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Andrew Jackson, Donald Trump Comparison, Media Abuse (1:06:05–1:09:43) John Dickerson discusses the historical parallels between Andrew Jackson and Donald Trump on C-SPAN. He notes that Jackson famously said, "By their abuse they shall elect me," referring to the media's role in galvanizing his constituency, a tactic mirrored by Trump. Keywords: [andrew jackson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/andrew-jackson.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [john dickerson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-dickerson.md), [c-span](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/c-span.md), national bank [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Moral Fiber, Sincerity vs Lying, Episode 880 Art (1:09:44–1:13:10) The hosts debate whether Christiane Amanpour is deliberately lying about climate change statistics or if she is "delusional." They also review the artwork for Episode 880, which featured a turkey with Hillary Clinton's head, and discuss the "value-for-value" model. Keywords: [christiane amanpour](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/christiane-amanpour.md), [lying](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lying.md), [sincerity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sincerity.md), [no agenda art](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda-art.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Native Ads, Media Mind Control, Pro-Trump Perception (1:13:10–1:17:23) The hosts address listener accusations of "native advertising" regarding their product mentions. They explain that their deconstruction of Hillary Clinton's propaganda often makes them appear pro-Trump to casual listeners who are used to traditional ad-supported media. Keywords: [native advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/native-advertising.md), [jimmy kimmel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jimmy-kimmel.md), [deconstruction](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deconstruction.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [propaganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/propaganda.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/24.md) ### 25. California Popular Vote, Electoral College, Larry Lessig (1:17:24–1:22:06) The hosts argue that California's massive popular vote margin for Hillary Clinton justifies the existence of the Electoral College. They criticize Professor Larry Lessig's Washington Post op-ed, which suggested electors should ignore the results to prevent a "crazy" outcome. Keywords: [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [popular vote](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/popular-vote.md), [electoral college](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electoral-college.md), [larry lessig](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/larry-lessig.md), [republic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/republic.md), [wyoming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wyoming.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Executive Producer Donations, Associate Producer Credits (1:22:07–1:33:08) The hosts thank high-tier donors for Episode 881. Lee Olivares is knighted after an $880 donation, and Andrew Martin contributes $250. Other significant donations come from R.K. Henley, John Donovan, and Dennis van Dendrijshin. The segment includes a discussion on PayPal issues and "Black Knight" status. Keywords: lee olivares, [paypal](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/paypal.md), [knighthood](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighthood.md), [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), stanmore, [memphis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/memphis.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/26.md) ### 27. NW Discovery Lab, Photography Education, Professional Techniques (1:33:09–1:36:25) Eric the Shill promotes the NW Discovery Lab, a non-profit teaching children legitimate photography using DSLRs. The hosts discuss professional photography techniques, including the use of 8x10 large format negatives and the "spray and pray" versus "one shot" philosophies. Keywords: nw discovery lab, [photography](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/photography.md), dslr, patricia steur, [hasselblad](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hasselblad.md), 8x10 [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/27.md) ### 28. Cabinet Picks, James Mattis, Dan Quayle Suggestion (1:36:28–1:42:00) The hosts discuss Donald Trump's potential cabinet picks, including James "Mad Dog" Mattis for Secretary of Defense. They analyze the resignation of James Clapper and the firing of Michael Flynn. A "genius pick" of Dan Quayle for Secretary of State is jokingly suggested. Keywords: [james mattis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-mattis.md), [michael flynn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-flynn.md), [james clapper](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-clapper.md), [dan quayle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dan-quayle.md), [david petraeus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-petraeus.md), [secretary of state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secretary-of-state.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/28.md) ### 29. Waterboarding, James Mattis, Trump's Flexibility (1:42:02–1:44:59) Donald Trump signals a change in his position on waterboarding after consulting with General James Mattis, who argued that the practice is ineffective. Media critics debate whether this represents a "flip-flop" or a sign of healthy temperament and flexibility in a leader. Keywords: [waterboarding](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/waterboarding.md), [james mattis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/james-mattis.md), [torture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/torture.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [negotiation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/negotiation.md), [ben carson](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ben-carson.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/29.md) ### 30. Gay Rights, Inauguration Performance, Elton John (1:45:00–1:47:21) A discussion regarding Donald Trump's stance on gay rights includes a premature claim that Elton John would perform at the inauguration. The hosts recall past performances by Aretha Franklin and discuss the lack of major artists willing to perform for the 2017 event. Keywords: [gay rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gay-rights.md), [elton john](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/elton-john.md), [inauguration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/inauguration.md), [aretha franklin](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aretha-franklin.md), [green day](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/green-day.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/30.md) ### 31. Mike Pence, Hamilton Controversy, History Buffs (1:47:22–1:52:13) Vice President-elect Mike Pence discusses being booed at a performance of the Broadway musical "Hamilton." Pence states he was not offended and told his children that the boos were "what freedom sounds like." The hosts analyze Pence's reaction and his claim to be a "history buff." Keywords: [mike pence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mike-pence.md), [hamilton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hamilton.md), [broadway](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/broadway.md), [chris wallace](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chris-wallace.md), [freedom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freedom.md), [history](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/history.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/31.md) ### 32. Racial Slurs on CNN, Don Lemon, Journalistic Context (1:52:14–1:57:24) A controversy erupts on CNN after author Charles Kaiser uses a racial slur while discussing Steve Bannon. This leads to a heated debate between Don Lemon and other commentators about whether journalists should use the full word in a historical or reporting context or stick to the "N-word" euphemism. Keywords: [don lemon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/don-lemon.md), [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), charles kaiser, [n-word](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/n-word.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/censorship.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/32.md) ### 33. Nigel Farage, UK Ambassador, House of Commons (1:57:25–2:03:59) Donald Trump tweets that Nigel Farage would do a "great job" as the UK's ambassador to the United States. The hosts play clips from the House of Commons where members previously called Trump a "buffoon" and a "wazook," highlighting the diplomatic tension between Trump and the British government. Keywords: [nigel farage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nigel-farage.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [house of commons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/house-of-commons.md), uk ambassador, [theresa may](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/theresa-may.md), [brexit](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brexit.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/33.md) ### 34. Ethiopian Ant Supercolony, Invasive Species, Ant Wars (2:04:01–2:09:49) Researchers identify a species of ant from Ethiopia, *Lepisiota canescens*, that is forming supercolonies and could become a globally invasive pest. The hosts compare this to the Argentinian ant, which has already taken over large parts of California and Europe, and joke about "Ant Wars." Keywords: [ants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ants.md), [ethiopia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ethiopia.md), [invasive species](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/invasive-species.md), supercolony, [argentina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/argentina.md), ant wars [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/34.md) ### 35. Press Access, Obama vs Trump, Media Demise (2:09:50–2:14:12) The media criticizes Donald Trump for ditching his press pool, but the hosts point out that the Obama administration also restricted access by releasing its own photos and videos. They argue that the "new media age" and tools like Twitter are accelerating the demise of traditional journalism. Keywords: [press pool](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/press-pool.md), [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [donald trump](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-trump.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [protocol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/protocol.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/35.md) ### 36. Newspaper Advertising, Standards Bodies, Value-for-Value (2:14:14–2:18:05) The hosts discuss the historical decline of newspapers due to television and the internet. They argue that the lack of a unified standards body for online metrics has hurt the industry and suggest that the "value-for-value" model is the only sustainable path forward. Keywords: [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), [nielsen](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nielsen.md), [craigslist](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/craigslist.md), [metrics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/metrics.md), [value-for-value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [newspapers](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/newspapers.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/36.md) ### 37. Donation Segment, Washington State Voting, Birthday Wishes (2:18:06–2:23:46) The hosts read donations from the "H series" of No Agenda shows. A donor from Washington State notes that voting records are posted online by name, challenging the concept of a secret ballot. The segment includes birthday wishes for several producers and mentions of donors from Romania and Australia. Keywords: [spokane valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spokane-valley.md), [washington state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington-state.md), [secret ballot](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/secret-ballot.md), [romania](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/romania.md), [portland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/portland.md), [des moines](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/des-moines.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/37.md) ### 38. Recorder Performance, Knighting Ceremony, Mutton and Mead (2:23:52–2:26:45) John C. Dvorak attempts to play the recorder and tonette. The hosts conduct a formal knighting ceremony for Lee Olivares, welcoming him to the "roundtable" with a traditional list of humorous perks, including "mutton and mead" and "hookers and blow." Keywords: [recorder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recorder.md), tonette, [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), lee olivares, [hookers and blow](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hookers-and-blow.md), [chardonnay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/chardonnay.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/38.md) ### 39. Black Pete Controversy, Sylvana Simons, Dutch Racism (2:26:46–2:30:36) Adam Curry discusses the "Zwarte Piet" (Black Pete) controversy in the Netherlands. He describes the backlash against politician Sylvana Simons, who formed the "Think Party" to oppose the tradition. Curry notes the intense racism Simons has faced from Dutch constituents, including being called a "monkey." Keywords: [black pete](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-pete.md), [netherlands](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/netherlands.md), sylvana simons, [suriname](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suriname.md), [racism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/racism.md), think party [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/39.md) ### 40. Turkey Border Threats, Smallpox Outbreak, Refugee Camps (2:30:38–2:36:15) President Erdogan of Turkey threatens to open border gates to allow refugees into the EU following a snub from the European Parliament. Meanwhile, reports of a skin disease outbreak in a Bulgarian refugee camp lead to rumors of smallpox. The hosts discuss the legal implications of the Lisbon Treaty regarding contagious diseases. Keywords: [recep tayyip erdogan](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recep-tayyip-erdogan.md), [turkey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/turkey.md), [refugees](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/refugees.md), [smallpox](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smallpox.md), [bulgaria](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bulgaria.md), [lisbon treaty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lisbon-treaty.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/40.md) ### 41. European Travel Warnings, Holiday Terror Threats, RT Mapping (2:36:16–2:40:22) The U.S. State Department issues travel warnings for Europe during the holiday season, citing credible threats of terror attacks at Christmas markets. RT reports on the warnings, noting that the U.S. considers countries like Morocco and Egypt safer for travel than the UK or France. Keywords: [travel warning](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/travel-warning.md), [state department](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/state-department.md), [europe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/europe.md), [isis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isis.md), christmas markets, [morocco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/morocco.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/41.md) ### 42. NASCAR Athletes, Financial Hunger, Survival DNA (2:40:25–2:45:37) NASCAR champion Brad Keselowski shares a theory that professional athletes perform better when they are "financially hungry" and on the edge of poverty. He suggests this drive for survival is what makes great hunters and athletes, explaining why many go broke despite high earnings. Keywords: [nascar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nascar.md), brad keselowski, [athletes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/athletes.md), [floyd mayweather](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/floyd-mayweather.md), [poverty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/poverty.md), survival [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/42.md) ### 43. Science Friday, Massaged Kale, Bitterness Compounds (2:45:37–2:47:38) A segment from NPR's "Science Friday" explains the science behind "massaging" kale to make it tender. The process releases enzymes that interact with sulfur compounds, creating a bitter flavor. The hosts mock the trend, questioning why anyone would eat the vegetable. Keywords: [kale](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kale.md), [science friday](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/science-friday.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [enzymes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/enzymes.md), [sulfur](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sulfur.md), bitterness [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/43.md) ### 44. Netflix Tax, Electric Car Revenue, Episode Sign-off (2:47:47–2:55:47) California cities like Pasadena consider a "utility tax" on streaming services like Netflix to recoup lost cable revenue. The hosts compare this to taxes on electric cars intended to replace declining gasoline tax revenue, ending the show with a final reference to Ted Kaczynski's theories. Keywords: netflix tax, [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [pasadena](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pasadena.md), [gasoline tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gasoline-tax.md), [electric cars](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/electric-cars.md), [ted kaczynski](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ted-kaczynski.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/881-ant-wars/chapter/44.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/880-promise-to-prosecute.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/882-fact-check-false.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. Every public page on this site has one: add `.md` to its URL, or request it with `Accept: text/markdown`. - [Site index for agents (llms.txt)](https://search.noagendashow.net/llms.txt) - [Home](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - [Search transcripts](https://search.noagendashow.net/search.md) - [All episodes](https://search.noagendashow.net/episodes.md) - [Topics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topics.md) - [People](https://search.noagendashow.net/people.md)