6 chapters across the catalog
A host describes a frustrating interaction with a telemarketer claiming to be an "official partner" of Google Ads. The caller allegedly suggested that the host would need to pay a fee and provide personal information to be removed from their calling list. The host characterizes this practice as illegal extortion and questions why consumer protection advocates are not addressing it.
Twitter Password Issues, Silicon Valley Corporate Culture
A host recounts a frustrating experience trying to recover a Twitter password, criticizing the lack of responsive PR and customer support at major tech firms. The discussion shifts to a new policy in Mountain View or San Francisco that may ban tech companies from providing free food in order to support local restaurants.
Birthday Call-outs, Social Justice Warrior Rental Bias
Birthday wishes are sent to various producers, including a 31st birthday for Brad. A listener story from Mountain View, California, describes a leasing agent who suggested a rental application would be fine "as long as they weren't Trump supporters." The hosts discuss the legality and prevalence of political bias in the Silicon Valley housing market.
The housing market in Mountain View, California, has become so inflated that even tech workers earning six-figure salaries are living in RVs and vans parked on city streets. Google employees reportedly use the company's gym and cafeteria facilities while living in vehicles to avoid median rents of over $4,000. Google officials acknowledge that their high salaries contribute to the pressure on local infrastructure and housing availability.
Google Self-Driving Car Accident and Mosul Dam Risk
A Google self-driving car was involved in a low-speed collision with a bus in Mountain View, California, which the hosts interpret as a failure of "skip logic" algorithms. Separately, U.S. officials warned of a catastrophic risk of failure at the Mosul Dam in Iraq, which could displace over a million people if it collapses.
Frank Navarro, a history teacher and Holocaust expert at Mountain View High School, was placed on paid leave after comparing Donald Trump's rhetoric to that of Adolf Hitler. Navarro defended his lesson as historically factual, citing parallels in the focus on foreigners and national greatness.
