10 chapters across the catalog
The hosts observe a trend of traditional television shows adopting the visual style of podcasts by placing large microphones and headphones in front of hosts. They criticize the technical choices, noting that many shows use the "wrong" microphones for the aesthetic they are trying to achieve.
Public Media Revenue, Broadcast Infrastructure, Neumann Microphones
The hosts analyze the financial health of public media, suggesting that the total revenue for all public media entities may be significantly higher than reported. They mock NPR's reliance on expensive equipment, such as $7,000 Neumann microphones, while claiming they need government support. The discussion touches on the relevance of traditional radio in an era of ubiquitous streaming and podcasting.
Itinerant Fundraiser, NPR Podcast Guide, Time Talent Treasure
A book titled "Confessions of an Itinerant Fundraiser" and an NPR startup guide to podcasts are discussed as contrasting models of media funding. The hosts emphasize their reliance on "Time, Talent, and Treasure" from their audience, noting that many listeners are disgruntled government employees, military personnel, and specialized professionals who provide "boots on the ground" intelligence.
Neumann U-47 Microphone Replica, Curry-Dvorak Audio Products
The hosts discuss a high-quality replica of the Neumann U-47 tube microphone, a legendary piece of studio equipment. The conversation touches on the difficulties of finding a reliable OEM partner for a potential "Curry-Dvorak" branded microphone line. They also joke about the "union contracts" at NPR and other legacy media outlets.
WeWork Documentary, Selfie Culture and Millennials
Adam Curry reviews the WeWork documentary on Netflix, describing the company's rise and fall as an "Instagram dream" sold to millennials. He criticizes the cult-like atmosphere and the "Steve Jobsian" hype generated by CEO Adam Neumann, which led to a $47 billion valuation despite a flawed business model.
Liz Neumann, Accelerationism and Boogaloo Boys
Former DHS official Liz Neumann appeared on NPR's "Fresh Air" to discuss the threat of white supremacy and a concept called "accelerationism." Neumann claimed groups like the Boogaloo Boys seek to accelerate societal collapse to trigger a civil war. However, research into the term "accelerationism" reveals it is primarily a French philosophical and social theory regarding capitalism, with its link to white nationalism being a minor, recently added footnote.
The hosts analyze the audio quality of various podcasts, specifically "Sophia with an F," discussing the technical merits of different microphones. They debate the suitability of studio mics like the Neumann for live broadcast environments.
Executive Producer Donations, Bandrew Scott, Sir Mike
Bandrew Scott, creator of the YouTube channel "Podcastage," donated $1,000 to the show and requested knighthood. The segment includes a detailed discussion of vintage microphones, specifically the Neumann U47 and its high market value. Other high-tier donors, including Sir Mike and Sir Eco Instant, are recognized for their contributions to the "Value for Value" network.
A clip from the BBC features Vanessa Neumann, a representative for Juan Guaidó, discussing the ongoing efforts to flip the Venezuelan military. Neumann characterizes the Maduro government as the world's largest drug cartel and the primary provider of narcotics to the United Kingdom. The hosts critique the interview, suggesting that the opposition's narrative is becoming increasingly desperate and "hinky" as the attempted coup stalls.
The hosts discuss the high-end studio builds at Gimlet Media, noting the use of expensive Neumann microphones to achieve an "NPR-like vibe." They contrast this corporate, "radio-style" approach to podcasting with the "honest" and minimalist aesthetic of the No Agenda Cluedio.
