Topic: Miriam Webster

The definition of bigotry is examined following listener feedback regarding the use of the term on the show. According to Miriam Webster, the primary definition involves a narrow-minded person who obstinately adheres to their own opinions. The discussion highlights how the term is often colloquially misunderstood as being exclusively related to racial prejudice.

A critique of the word "decimate" leads into a report on the vulnerability of Ukrainian cities like Lviv to high-trajectory ballistic missiles. The U.S. recently shut down its embassy in Kiev following warnings of missile tests. The segment highlights that while cruise missiles are easier to intercept, the new Russian ballistic technology poses a unique challenge to existing defense systems.

Adam Curry plays a clip of Jordan Peterson discussing his recovery from benzodiazepine addiction. The hosts focus on Peterson's use of the word "anyways," leading to a discussion on how language changes over time. They jokingly propose that the No Agenda Show should adopt the spelling "anywayz" with a Z to distinguish it from the navigation app "Waze."

The conversation shifts to the evolving taboos surrounding specific words, specifically the term "retarded" and its grammatical classification as a transitive verb versus a noun. This leads to a description of the hiring practices at Whataburger in Texas, where the fast-food chain is noted for employing mentally disabled individuals. The service model at these locations is highlighted for its personal touch and community integration.

A listener's reference to the hosts as "schmoes of news" leads to a deep dive into the "Shmoo," a fictional creature created by Al Capp for the Li'l Abner comic strip. The Shmoo was an allegorical animal that provided for all human needs and was famously delicious. The hosts clarify the difference between the cartoon character and the dictionary definition of "shmo" as an unintelligent person.

President Obama used the phrase "modest encroachments" to describe the surveillance programs. The hosts look up the definition of "encroach" in Merriam-Webster to argue that the president is essentially admitting to a crime. They also mock the use of "the team" as a corporate-style tactic to deflect individual responsibility.