7 chapters across the catalog
The hosts thank the "No Agenda Fudge" producers for their support and transition into a discussion about political "pay-to-play" schemes. They cite a report that donor Tim Gill received a medal after contributing $400,000 to the Biden campaign, while his partner was named an ambassador. The hosts jokingly suggest offering "No Agenda Ambassadorships" for a fee.
The hosts discuss the prestigious nature of ambassadorships to the UK and France, often awarded to major political donors. Adam Curry jokingly expresses interest in becoming the U.S. Ambassador to Holland if Donald Trump remains in office, citing the "party scene" and the official title of "The Honorable."
The marketing director for KaiOS reached out to discuss a potential brand ambassadorship for the "detox phone." A debate ensues regarding the ethics of a podcast host accepting payment to promote a product they already use and endorse. Comparisons are made to European versus American journalistic standards regarding corporate junkets.
The discussion turns to other targets of the hacker Guccifer, including venture capitalist John Doerr of Kleiner Perkins and Senator Lisa Murkowski. The hosts speculate that Doerr's leaked emails might reveal his attempts to secure an ambassadorship to France or England through political donations. They also discuss Doerr's failed "green" investments with Al Gore.
Media Industry Shifts and Anna Wintour Ambassadorship
The hosts discuss changes in the cable news landscape, including restructuring at Fox News and the move of several pundits to Current TV. They also report on rumors that President Obama may appoint Vogue editor Anna Wintour as Ambassador to the UK or France as a reward for her significant fundraising efforts.
Cynthia Stroum, Luxembourg Ambassadorship Resignation
Cynthia Stroum, a major fundraiser for the Obama campaign, resigned from her post as Ambassador to Luxembourg following a scathing State Department investigation. The report cited a confrontational management style and issues with alcohol. The hosts discuss the practice of awarding "cushy" diplomatic posts to top political bundlers who raise hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The U.S. ambassadorship to the Vatican is described as a highly desirable post focused primarily on social events and dining. Personal anecdotes mention family members serving in diplomatic roles in Korea and the perceived lifestyle benefits of being an ambassador in Europe.
