8 chapters across the catalog
Network Equal Time Rules and Convention Production
Broadcast networks are reportedly limiting convention coverage to two hours to avoid triggering equal time requirements for the Republican convention. Despite the involvement of Hollywood talent like Kerry Washington and Eva Longoria, the virtual production is described as lifeless and overly scripted.
Dr. Deborah Birx faced criticism and "canceling" on social media following an interview with the Christian Broadcast Network (CBN). In the clip, Birx praised President Donald Trump's ability to analyze granular scientific data and integrate his business background into medical discussions. The hosts note that her positive comments about the President's competence triggered a negative reaction from mainstream media outlets.
NPR Serial Podcast, Inverted Broadcast Network Model
The success of the NPR Serial podcast is analyzed through the lens of the "Kodak phenomenon," where established institutions fail to adapt to new technology. The traditional centralized broadcast model is being inverted as affiliates and listeners become active producers. NPR's inability to monetize the podcasting phenomenon is attributed to their rigid adherence to professional broadcast standards and refusal to accept user-generated content.
Dish Network Turner Dispute and HBO Streaming
Dish Network drops Turner Broadcasting channels, including CNN, due to a carriage dispute, replacing them with MSNBC. The hosts discuss Michael Wolff's thesis that television is disrupting the internet through new streaming services from HBO and CBS. They also criticize Adobe for its "spy-like" reporting features embedded in the Flash player used for online video distribution.
The hosts critique the ITU's proposed definition of "spam," which excludes information transmitted over broadcast networks. They argue that the definition is hypocritical, as it protects traditional corporate advertising while criminalizing similar bulk digital communication. John C. Dvorak suggests that all advertising is essentially a form of spam.
CBN Reports on Islamization of Paris and Street Prayers
The Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) aired a report featuring "hidden camera" footage of Muslim worshippers blocking streets in Paris for Friday prayers. The report claims the French government is giving Islam privileged status despite the burqa ban. The hosts note that local Parisians have responded by holding "pork and wine" festivals in the same neighborhoods to protest the disruption of foot traffic.
The utility of the Slingbox for accessing local news from different geographic markets like Detroit, Hawaii, and London is discussed. The hosts express a desire to expand their "Slingbox community" to include locations like Hong Kong, Russia, and Iran to bypass national media narratives. Virgin Media's service in the UK is criticized for poor installation times.
The acquisition of Sling Media by Dish Network is reviewed, along with the legal restrictions that prevent satellite providers from offering out-of-market local stations. The Slingbox is seen as a technological workaround for consumers who want to watch television from their home cities while traveling.
