6 chapters across the catalog
Rand Paul's struggling presidential campaign is highlighted through a "dumbass" Google Hangout where he snapped at a viewer asking if he was still running. The hosts suggest his campaign is "toxic" following the indictment of a former campaign manager associated with Ron Paul. They conclude that his Silicon Valley support has largely evaporated.
Rick Ledgett TED Talk, NSA Deputy Director, Google Hangout
NSA Deputy Director Rick Ledgett gave a TED talk via a Google Hangout from Fort Meade as a response to Edward Snowden. Ledgett defended the agency's "minimization procedures" and argued that the NSA protects the privacy of "citizens of the world," a phrase the hosts find suspicious.
Edward Snowden at South by Southwest via Google Hangout
Edward Snowden appeared at South by Southwest via a Google Hangout, a choice of platform criticized by privacy advocates given Google's relationship with the intelligence community. ACLU lawyer Chris Soghoian defended the move, while skeptics suggest Snowden remains a CIA asset whose messaging is restricted to promoting encryption. The discussion highlights the irony of using centralized cloud services to discuss surveillance.
Barack Obama, Google Fireside Hangout, Domestic Drone Strikes
President Barack Obama participated in a "Fireside Hangout" on Google where he addressed the legality of drone strikes against American citizens. The hosts deconstruct the President's response regarding the different rules for counter-terrorism operations inside versus outside the United States. They express concern over the lack of a definitive "no" regarding the use of lethal drones on domestic soil.
Google Plus, Mike Elgan, and Social Media Hangouts
Adam Curry expresses confusion over the value of Google Plus, despite being in thousands of "circles." He mentions that tech journalist Mike Elgan is a proponent of the platform. The hosts discuss the "Hangout" feature and the "No Agenda" community circle, though Curry finds the notification system overwhelming and a "time sink."
Google Hangout Drones, Precision Strikes and National Emergency
During a Google Hangout, President Obama defended the use of drones, claiming they are precise and result in few civilian casualties. The hosts analyze his language, arguing that the "tight leash" on drone strikes is tied to the ongoing national emergency powers.
