4 chapters across the catalog
Google employees worldwide walked out to protest the company's handling of sexual harassment claims, specifically the $90 million exit package given to Android creator Andy Rubin. Protesters criticized the "negligent" culture regarding abuse of power and inequities. The hosts observe that mainstream media outlets, which compete with Google for ad revenue, have been surprisingly slow to amplify these negative stories.
Smith-Mundt Act Modernization, Broadcast Board of Governors
The 2013 modernization of the Smith-Mundt Act allows the Broadcast Board of Governors (BBG) to distribute its content domestically upon request. While the BBG claims it does not target U.S. audiences, local stations can now subscribe to free, high-quality news packages produced by the agency. This change has raised concerns about the potential for government-funded propaganda within the United States.
Broadcast News Packages, Audio Ambience Discrepancy
A technical critique of broadcast news "packages" focuses on the jarring transition between a reporter's live intro and their recorded voiceover. Reporters often record voiceovers in soundproof booths, creating a sterile audio quality that clashes with the natural ambience of the on-site footage. This practice is criticized as an unnecessary and "stupid" industry standard that detracts from the realism of the reporting.
A New York Post cartoon featuring a police officer shooting a chimpanzee has sparked a racism controversy due to perceived associations with Barack Obama. The hosts argue the cartoon was likely a poorly executed reference to a real-life pet chimp shooting in Connecticut and suggest the outrage serves as a distraction from the stimulus package. Musician John Legend published an open letter condemning the publication.
