7 chapters across the catalog
A look back at the "shareware" era leads to a critique of modern creators who put content behind paywalls on platforms like Patreon. The hosts argue that paywalls limit relevance and are the first thing consumers cut during financial crises. They advocate for keeping content free and accessible to maintain a broad audience and cultural impact.
The Decline of Internet Freedom and The Helm Email Server
The hosts lament the end of the "golden age" of the internet as independent email servers are increasingly blocked by Gmail's "trustworthiness" filters. They discuss "The Helm," a hardware appliance designed to help users run private servers by using a paid SMTP relay service. They advocate for a return to "value for value" and open-source models to combat corporate control.
Sir David Foley was elevated to the rank of Grand Duke of the United States following significant financial contributions. Foley, a former shareware developer known for the product HyperDisc, expressed his support for the "value for value" model as a sustainable way to fund independent media.
The hosts advocate for supporting independent open-source developers through donations. They warn against "scam-ware" and deceptive download buttons on sites like CNET's Download.com, which often bundle toolbars and malware. A donor known as "Spoon Collection" contributes $333.33, sparking a discussion on the decline of the traditional shareware model.
Alternative Media Economy, Leo Laporte and PayPal
Adam Curry discusses his own habits of donating to other independent creators, including Leo Laporte's TWiT network. The hosts encourage listeners to support the "shareware" economy of software developers and podcasters. They emphasize that the No Agenda model relies entirely on this voluntary exchange to remain independent of corporate influence.
The hosts discuss the growth of the podcast and the need for more subscribers to reach their goal of producing three episodes per week. They emphasize a voluntary "value-for-value" donation model, comparing it to shareware, and note the increasing amount of research being integrated into the show.
Twitter Growth, Follower Quality, and Open Source Software
A discussion regarding social media growth highlights one host surpassing 10,000 followers on Twitter within twenty days. The conversation shifts to the utility of a large following for crowdsourcing information, specifically seeking recommendations for open-source or shareware programs to convert DVDs into laptop-viewable files.
