Topic: International Business

A donor note from "Animas of Dogpatch" sparks a discussion on the reported 180-day suspension of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) by the Trump administration. The suspension is framed as a move to allow American companies to compete more effectively in global markets where bribery is common. The hosts explore the implications of "tax-deductible bribes" for national security.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport faced unprecedented passenger volume and a severe shortage of TSA agents, leading to wall-to-wall crowds. Reports indicate 15 federal agents were deployed to assist the existing 50-person staff, alongside a 15% retention bonus for screening officers. Travelers utilized Southwest Airlines Business Select tickets to access priority lanes and bypass two-hour wait times.