# Stroking the Ugly Stick

> A suspicious death at Freddie Mac and a push for global maritime taxes headline a look at government overreach and the industrialization of the food supply.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 91
- **Published:** 2009-04-22
- **Length:** 1h 35m
- **Topics:** [Freddie Mac](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freddie-mac.md), [Monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), [Somali Pirates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/somali-pirates.md), [Unilever](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unilever.md), David Kessler, Polo Horse Deaths
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick

## About this episode

The death of Freddie Mac Acting CFO David Kellermann by apparent suicide has sparked intense skepticism following his brief tenure in the role. Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak question the official narrative surrounding the 16-year veteran, suggesting his knowledge of internal firm operations may have played a role in the tragedy as the financial crisis deepens.

In the UK, Communities Secretary Hazel Blears and other high-ranking officials face ridicule after being photographed with visible confidential documents, echoing a recent security breach involving the Cobra team. Meanwhile, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is identified as a potential vehicle for global taxation, using Somali piracy as a pretext for international maritime jurisdiction. In Florida, the sudden death of twenty-one polo horses in Wellington due to suspected toxin exposure has triggered a massive investigation into potential foul play. On the industrial front, Monsanto is under fire from German activists for filing a patent on a genetically modified pig, while former FDA Commissioner David Kessler warns that the food industry is neurologically conditioning Americans to become hyper-eaters through salt and sugar manipulation.

Scientific research funded by Unilever has identified C-tactile nerve fibers that respond optimally to a stroking speed of five centimeters per second, leading to a pitch for a pleasure-calibrating iPhone app. The hosts also explore the utility of the Kaito BT-409 hiking pole as a defensive tool while Adam Curry recounts a failed attempt to update the slang in a Swamp Thing script during his acting days.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/transcript.md.

### 1. No Agenda Episode 91 Introduction and Countdown (0:04–1:39)

The No Agenda podcast begins its 91st episode on April 22, 2009, featuring hosts Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak. The introduction establishes the "Gitmo Nation" theme and provides donation information via the No Agenda Library. Technical difficulties with VLC and QuickTime are briefly noted during the opening sequence.

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), [gitmo nation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gitmo-nation.md), [podcast intro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast-intro.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Command Line Efficiency and Twitter as Web Interface (1:39–5:19)

A discussion regarding the efficiency of using a command line interface over a Graphical User Interface (GUI) highlights a reported time savings of one hour per day. The workflow involves tools like Mutt for Gmail and VIM for show outlines, emphasizing a keyboard-only approach to minimize mouse usage. Twitter is characterized as a command line for the web due to its syntax-based commands.

Keywords: [command line](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/command-line.md), [unix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unix.md), [gui](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gui.md), [twitter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/twitter.md), [mutt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mutt.md), [gmail](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gmail.md), [vim](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vim.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Typing Habits and Backspace Usage Among Youth (5:19–7:33)

Observations on the typing habits of younger generations reveal high speeds despite a lack of formal training. The discussion notes a tendency for young users to rely heavily on the backspace key to correct errors rather than using advanced navigation commands. The physical wear on keyboards, specifically the backspace key, is cited as evidence of these behavioral patterns.

Keywords: typing, [keyboard](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/keyboard.md), backspace, [education](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/education.md), self-taught

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Zycam Zinc Treatment for Cold Prevention (7:33–9:49)

A personal anecdote regarding a head cold leads to a discussion about Zycam, a zinc-based cold remedy. While acknowledging skepticism regarding its effectiveness as a potential placebo, one speaker claims it successfully prevents colds when used at the first sign of symptoms. The conversation includes a humorous pitch for a hypothetical sponsorship based on "blasting nose holes" with the product.

Keywords: zycam, [zinc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zinc.md), cold remedy, [placebo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/placebo.md), [nasal spray](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nasal-spray.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Union Pacific Steam Locomotive 844 Oakland Visit (9:49–13:18)

The Union Pacific locomotive 844, a historic steam engine built in 1944, recently visited Oakland and Stockton. The massive 454-ton machine is noted for its 80-inch drive wheels and continuous service history. The segment transitions into a trivia discussion about the standard US railroad gauge of four feet, eight and a half inches, tracing its origins back to Roman chariot ruts.

Keywords: [union pacific](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/union-pacific.md), locomotive 844, steam engine, [oakland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oakland.md), railroad standards

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/5.md)

### 6. UK Government Security Lapses and Document Leaks (13:19–17:16)

High-ranking UK officials, including Communities Secretary Hazel Blears, have been photographed by press carrying visible confidential documents. This follows a similar incident involving a security director who resigned after exposing Cobra team memos. The discussion mocks the irony of spending billions on cybersecurity while failing to use basic physical security measures like envelopes.

Keywords: hazel blears, [10 downing street](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/10-downing-street.md), [security breach](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security-breach.md), [financial times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-times.md), confidential memos

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Tamil Tiger Protests and Somali Pirate Prosecution (17:16–18:16)

Protests regarding the humanitarian crisis involving the Tamil Tigers in Sri Lanka are contrasted with the high-profile media coverage of a Somali pirate brought to New York for trial. The pirate, described as looking very young, appeared cheerful during his arrival in the United States.

Keywords: tamil tigers, [somali pirates](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/somali-pirates.md), [new york](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york.md), [protests](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/protests.md), [sri lanka](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sri-lanka.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Naval Buildup and Maersk Hijacking Insurance Claims (18:18–23:16)

A Canadian Navy producer provides insight into maritime operations, suggesting that snipers are more tactical than heavy artillery for hostage situations. The discussion questions the global naval buildup in response to piracy and notes that Maersk ships are insured by AIG. Connections are drawn to historical arms transport and the potential involvement of private security firms like Blackwater.

Keywords: [navy seals](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/navy-seals.md), [maersk](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/maersk.md), [aig](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aig.md), somali piracy, [blackwater](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blackwater.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/8.md)

### 9. No Agenda Ugly Stick and Walking Stick Trends (23:17–26:27)

The concept of the "No Agenda Ugly Stick" is proposed as a show premium, inspired by the Irish shillelagh and the philosophy of walking softly while carrying a big stick. The hosts discuss the history of walking sticks and canes as both tools for stability and potential fashion trends. Logistics of shipping such a large item are briefly considered.

Keywords: shillelagh, walking stick, ugly stick, [premium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/premium.md), [self-defense](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/self-defense.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/9.md)

### 10. UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (26:28–27:10)

A theory is presented linking the Somali piracy issue to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The claim suggests that granting the UN jurisdiction over international waters is a step toward global government and international taxation of offshore activities.

Keywords: [united nations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/united-nations.md), [law of the sea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/law-of-the-sea.md), [hillary clinton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hillary-clinton.md), [global government](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-government.md), [jurisdiction](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jurisdiction.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Fascism and Compulsory Youth Service Discussion (27:12–29:32)

A personal anecdote involving 83-year-old Dutch in-laws leads to a comparison between current government policies and historical fascism. The mother-in-law, a survivor of the bombing of Rotterdam, likens proposed compulsory youth service in the US and UK to her experiences in 1940s Europe. The discussion focuses on government control of corporations and mandatory national service.

Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [gordon brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gordon-brown.md), [fascism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fascism.md), compulsory service, [world war ii](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-war-ii.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/11.md)

### 12. Freddie Mac CFO David Kellermann Suicide (29:32–31:58)

The death of Freddie Mac Acting CFO David Kellermann is discussed with skepticism regarding the official ruling of suicide by hanging. Kellermann, a 16-year veteran of the firm, had only been in the CFO role since September. The hosts question the timing and circumstances, suggesting he may have known too much about the organization's internal workings.

Keywords: [freddie mac](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freddie-mac.md), david kellermann, [suicide](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/suicide.md), [cfo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cfo.md), [financial crisis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/financial-crisis.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/12.md)

### 13. No Agenda Donation Numerology and Producer Support (31:58–34:43)

The podcast's donation model is reviewed, highlighting the use of significant numbers by contributors, such as 1337 (leet), 1984, and 2001. The hosts express gratitude for the "open source" community of producers who contribute code, technical support, and FM transmitter setups to distribute the show.

Keywords: [donations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donations.md), [numerology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/numerology.md), 1337, [1984](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/1984.md), [open source](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/open-source.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Knighting of Michael Zelina and Donation Challenges (34:43–40:18)

Michael Zelina is knighted following a donation of $1,081, a number that Adam Curry presents as a challenge for listeners to decode. Other donations mentioned include $54.40 (referencing "54-40 or Fight") and $4.51 (referencing Fahrenheit 451). Additionally, the domain 2tothehead.com is confirmed as registered by a producer.

Keywords: [michael zelina](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/michael-zelina.md), [knighting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/knighting.md), 1081, [fahrenheit 451](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fahrenheit-451.md), 2tothehead

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Portuguese Linguiça Sausage and Regional Varieties (40:18–42:46)

A discussion on linguiça, a Portuguese sausage, explores its availability in the United States and Brazil. John Dvorak requests listener recommendations for high-quality sausage factories, specifically mentioning Taylor's Sausage in Oregon. A suggestion is made to create a Twitter-based locator for the product.

Keywords: linguiça, [portuguese sausage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/portuguese-sausage.md), taylor's sausage, [brazil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brazil.md), [food](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/food.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Kaito Anti-Shock Hiking Pole Features (42:47–43:53)

A listener suggests the Kaito BT-409 anti-shock hiking pole as a real-world version of the "ugly stick." The device features a 9-LED flashlight, a compass, and a foldable design. The hosts discuss its utility for hikers and its potential as a defensive tool.

Keywords: kaito, hiking pole, flashlight, ugly stick, [amazon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amazon.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Polo Horse Deaths in Wellington, Florida (43:58–45:02)

Twenty-one polo horses died suddenly during a championship event in Wellington, Florida, due to suspected toxin exposure or drug reactions. The horses suffered from hemorrhaging of the lungs. Investigations into the cause are expected to take several weeks, with some suspecting foul play or accidental poisoning.

Keywords: polo horses, wellington florida, toxin, hemorrhaging, drug reaction

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/17.md)

### 18. Monsanto Pig Patent and Industrial Food Quality (45:02–51:05)

Monsanto has filed a patent for a genetically modified pig designed to produce more meat with less feed. German activists and politicians are opposing the patent, which would allow the company to sue farmers who breed the animals. The discussion expands to criticize the quality of industrial food, including tasteless BST-treated milk and the loss of traditional farming practices.

Keywords: [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), pig patent, [germany](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/germany.md), genetically modified, bst milk

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Postpartum Depression Act and Government Overreach (51:05–53:54)

The Melanie Blocker Stokes Mom's Opportunity to Access Health Education Research and Support for Postpartum Depression Act is criticized as a potential vehicle for government overreach. The hosts argue the bill's broad definitions could lead to mandatory mental health screenings for pregnant women and increased state intervention in child-rearing.

Keywords: [postpartum depression](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/postpartum-depression.md), melanie blocker stokes, [house of representatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/house-of-representatives.md), [screening](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/screening.md), [mental health](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mental-health.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Aviation News, Piaggio Pushers, and Joint Strike Fighter (53:55–57:40)

A comparison between the Piaggio pusher aircraft and the Beechcraft King Air leads into news about French President Nicolas Sarkozy's purchase of a large Airbus A330-200. The segment also covers the theft of several terabytes of data related to the Joint Strike Fighter program from the Pentagon and the financial strain the program places on European participants like Holland.

Keywords: piaggio, [king air](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/king-air.md), [nicolas sarkozy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nicolas-sarkozy.md), [airbus](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airbus.md), [joint strike fighter](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/joint-strike-fighter.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Global Warming Legislation and Climatology Funding (57:40–1:01:09)

Congress is holding hearings on energy and global warming bills that the hosts characterize as a "carbon tax" scam. They compare the current climate movement to previous environmental alarms like acid rain and the "coming ice age." The discussion posits that the field of climatology is driven by the pursuit of billions of dollars in research grants.

Keywords: [global warming](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/global-warming.md), [carbon tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/carbon-tax.md), [acid rain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acid-rain.md), [climatology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/climatology.md), [research grants](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/research-grants.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/21.md)

### 22. FDA Chief David Kessler on Food Addiction (1:01:10–1:03:13)

Former FDA Commissioner David Kessler's upcoming book is discussed, focusing on how the food industry uses fat, sugar, and salt to trigger dopamine responses in the brain. Kessler describes Americans as "conditioned hyper-eaters" who are neurologically hooked on processed foods. The hosts critique the lack of effective PR for the book's title in the initial news reports.

Keywords: [fda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fda.md), david kessler, [neuroscience](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neuroscience.md), [dopamine](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dopamine.md), [food industry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/food-industry.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Swamp Thing TV Series and the Word Blotto (1:03:13–1:04:55)

An anecdote regarding an acting role in the "Swamp Thing" television series highlights a disagreement over script dialogue. The speaker recounts an unsuccessful attempt to change the word "blotto" to more contemporary slang like "baked" or "wasted." The episode featured Rick Moretti from Magnum P.I. but is currently unavailable on Hulu.

Keywords: [swamp thing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/swamp-thing.md), [hulu](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hulu.md), [acting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acting.md), blotto, rick manetti

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Stephen Hawking Hospitalization and Family Guy History (1:04:56–1:07:20)

Physicist Stephen Hawking was hospitalized in Cambridge with a chest infection, prompting Sky TV to air his guest appearance on The Simpsons. This leads to a discussion on the history of the show Family Guy, noting it was canceled twice before becoming a major success. The hosts debate the show's humor and its evolution over three iterations.

Keywords: [stephen hawking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stephen-hawking.md), [the simpsons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/the-simpsons.md), [family guy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/family-guy.md), [seth macfarlane](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/seth-macfarlane.md), [television](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/television.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Unilever Research on Pleasure Nerves and Stroking Speed (1:07:21–1:11:14)

Scientists funded by Unilever have identified "C-tactile" nerve fibers in hairy skin that specifically transmit pleasure signals to the brain. The research indicates that the optimum speed for activating these nerves is four to five centimeters per second. The study suggests these fibers are absent from the hands to prevent functional touch from being confused with emotional pleasure.

Keywords: [unilever](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unilever.md), [neuroscience](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neuroscience.md), pleasure nerves, c-tactile, skin

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/25.md)

### 26. iPhone App Concepts and Metal Detection (1:11:15–1:14:36)

The hosts brainstorm iPhone app ideas based on the Unilever pleasure research, suggesting an app that uses the accelerometer to help users practice the correct stroking speed. They also discuss a metal detector app for the Android G-Phone that utilizes the device's built-in magnetic compass.

Keywords: [iphone app](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iphone-app.md), [accelerometer](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/accelerometer.md), [g-phone](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/g-phone.md), metal detector, [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Blackout Europe and Internet Censorship (1:14:36–1:17:24)

The European Union Parliament is set to vote on the "Blackout Europe" legislation, which includes "three strikes" rules for internet users and increased ISP monitoring. The discussion notes the recent blocking of The Pirate Bay in the UK and the use of child pornography laws as a pretext for broader internet filtering and bandwidth throttling.

Keywords: blackout europe, [eu parliament](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eu-parliament.md), three strikes law, [pirate bay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pirate-bay.md), [censorship](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/censorship.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Google Tax Avoidance and Mobile Phone Hardware (1:17:25–1:19:47)

Google is accused of avoiding over 100 million pounds in UK taxes by routing earnings through Ireland. The conversation shifts to the hardware limitations of the G-Phone, specifically its poor battery life compared to the Nokia E71. Adam Curry shares a personal story about incurring $600 in roaming charges despite turning off the phone's transmitter.

Keywords: [google](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google.md), [tax avoidance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tax-avoidance.md), [eric schmidt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/eric-schmidt.md), [ireland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ireland.md), [battery life](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/battery-life.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/28.md)

### 29. Iceland Economic Collapse and Wool Products (1:19:47–1:23:54)

Following the 44% drop in the Icelandic Krona, the country is discussed as a budget vacation destination. John Dvorak recommends purchasing Icelandic wool products, such as sweaters and blankets, specifically from the shop at the Reykjavik airport. The segment concludes with a tangent about high-quality bratwurst found in Wisconsin airports.

Keywords: [iceland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iceland.md), [reykjavik](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reykjavik.md), [wool](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wool.md), [sheep](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sheep.md), airport shopping

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Newspaper Industry Decline and New York Times Earnings (1:23:55–1:25:44)

The New York Times Company reported a 28.4% decline in revenue for its news media group, reflecting the ongoing collapse of the traditional newspaper industry. The hosts attribute this decline to a lack of skepticism in mainstream reporting and a failure to provide the "real news" that the public desires.

Keywords: [new york times](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/new-york-times.md), [boston globe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/boston-globe.md), [advertising revenue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising-revenue.md), [journalism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/journalism.md), [bankruptcy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bankruptcy.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Perez Hilton and the Miss USA Controversy (1:25:44–1:30:12)

Blogger Perez Hilton's role as a judge in the Miss USA pageant is criticized following his controversial question to Miss California, Carrie Prejean, regarding gay marriage. Adam Curry recounts a personal business encounter with Hilton in London, describing him as unprofessional and difficult to work with despite a significant contract offer.

Keywords: [perez hilton](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/perez-hilton.md), [miss usa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/miss-usa.md), carrie prejean, [gay marriage](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gay-marriage.md), [pageant](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pageant.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/31.md)

### 32. California Gubernatorial Race and Jerry Brown (1:30:14–1:32:58)

The upcoming California gubernatorial race features San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom and former Governor Jerry Brown. John Dvorak describes Jerry Brown as a highly intelligent but "spaced out" politician with deep roots in California history. The hosts mock the state's infrastructure, specifically the prevalence of potholes on the Bay Bridge.

Keywords: [jerry brown](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jerry-brown.md), [gavin newsom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gavin-newsom.md), [california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california.md), [governor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/governor.md), [politics](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/politics.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/32.md)

### 33. No Agenda Outro and Future Schedule (1:32:58–1:35:22)

The hosts wrap up episode 91 by summarizing missed topics like IMF bank losses and AIG contractor claims. They discuss the schedule for the next show, which will likely be recorded on Sunday or Monday via Skype while Adam Curry is traveling. The episode concludes with the standard sign-off from London and Silicon Valley.

Keywords: [no agenda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-agenda.md), [schedule](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/schedule.md), [skype](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skype.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/91-stroking-the-ugly-stick/chapter/33.md)

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