Topic: High Tech

A distinction is made between "high tech" companies that manufacture hardware and chips, such as Intel and Apple, and social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. The argument posits that social networks and search engines are service-based internet companies rather than true high-tech innovators. This perspective challenges the common media narrative that equates social media influence with technical engineering prowess.

The hosts announce the launch of the No Agenda Mile High Club website and experiment with a new email listserv. The segment transitions into "Tech News," with John Dvorak preparing to discuss the latest developments in surveillance and digital privacy.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced a new Pentagon initiative to develop cutting-edge weapon systems to maintain U.S. military dominance. The hosts link this to increased military spending in Sweden following a suspected Russian submarine sighting and the U.S. selling defense equipment to South Korea.

Apple announces a $350 million investment to expand its facilities in Austin, Texas. The hosts speculate that the new facility will primarily serve as a large-scale customer support call center rather than a high-end engineering hub.

An upcoming trip to Portugal to visit high-tech companies necessitates a shift in the podcast recording schedule. The travel route through Frankfurt to Lisbon raises concerns about available bandwidth for remote broadcasting, leading to a plan to record the next episode on a Monday.

The hosts analyze a 2005 or 2006 Ridge Geyserville Zinfandel, noting its high alcohol content which is attributed to modern high-tech yeasts. A discussion follows regarding the practice of "watering down" dark, high-alcohol wines to improve taste or maintain sobriety at parties. The concept of a "field blend" is explained as a traditional method where different grape varieties are grown and harvested together.