Topic: Show Production

18 chapters across the catalog

Maiden America
Episode 1493

1493: Maiden America

Podcast Production Deadlines and Bordeaux Pastries

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the session discussing a specific French pastry from Bordeaux called a canelé, which Dvorak purchased at a Berkeley farmer's market. The conversation shifts to their creative processes, where Curry explains his requirement for a five-hour production deadline to filter content effectively. Dvorak agrees, noting he maintains a strict clip limit to ensure only the highest quality material is included in the broadcast.

Texas Balls
Episode 1451 3:15:03 - 3:18:04

1451: Texas Balls

New Show Music, ISO Soundboard Testing

A professional musician submitted a bombastic news-style theme for the show, which the hosts review. While appreciating the production quality, they decide it doesn't quite fit the "No Agenda" brand. They proceed to test various "ISO" sound clips, including "disinformation," "we did it," and a clip of an NPR host saying they want to kill themselves.

Boo You
Episode 1074 1:03:23 - 1:06:50

1074: Boo You

No Agenda Show Art and Newsletter Discussion

The hosts discuss the process of selecting show art and titles, highlighting a recent piece by "Illuminati" featuring a monkeypox theme. They also address a formatting error in the recent newsletter and the lack of feedback from the audience regarding specific essays and images included in the publication.

End of an Era
Episode 1038

1038: End of an Era

Ramsey Cain Final Best Of Special Edition

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak introduce a special "Best Of" edition of the show, noting it is likely the final compilation produced by long-time contributor Ramsey Cain. Cain has moved on to a new job, ending a run of approximately six to ten produced clip shows. The hosts discuss the rarity of taking time off, noting they only do so a few times a year, and invite listeners to provide feedback on the "Best Of" format.

Bug Ramen
Episode 1037 58:25 - 1:00:36

1037: Bug Ramen

Ramsey Cain Best Of, Podcast Production Update

The upcoming Thursday episode will feature the final "Best Of" production by Ramsey Cain, who has moved into a new professional role. Cain's contributions have been a staple of the show's archives, and his departure marks the end of an era for these specific curated segments. Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback or pick up the production mantle for future archival releases.

Fruit Machine
Episode 986 54:49 - 58:19

986: Fruit Machine

No Agenda Show Format and Art Generator

The hosts discuss the internal mechanics of the No Agenda show, including the "X series" of best-of episodes. They acknowledge a lapse in the show's traditional format due to their vacation and encourage listeners to contribute artwork via the No Agenda Art Generator. The discussion emphasizes the "onion-like" complexity of the show's long-form deconstruction.

Dangerous Speech
Episode 798

798: Dangerous Speech

Super Bowl 50 Production Quality and Lady Gaga Performance

Critical analysis of the Super Bowl 50 broadcast focuses on poor color grading and a lack of traditional cheerleader coverage. Lady Gaga receives high praise for her rendition of the national anthem, which is identified as the evening's highlight. The discussion contrasts the lackluster television production with the excitement of the Denver Broncos' victory.

Party Boat
Episode 794 1:40:06 - 1:42:52

794: Party Boat

Host Communication Breakdown, Production Notes

A breakdown in communication occurs between the hosts regarding a production note sent via email. One host expresses frustration that a planned "joke" or segment was ruined because the other did not read the message. The exchange highlights the informal and often chaotic nature of their live production process.

Show 200.7 Redux
Episode 736 1:41:50 - 1:43:50

736: Show 200.7 Redux

Soundbyte Software, iPad Carts and Show Openings

Adam Curry reveals he uses "Soundbyte" software on an original iPad to trigger the show's jingles and sound effects. He explains that the show's opening is actually composed of three distinct audio elements timed to the hosts' introductory remarks. This setup replicates the functionality of old-school radio "cart machines."

Show 200.7 Redux
Episode 736 2:23:25 - 2:31:10

736: Show 200.7 Redux

Show Night Logistics, FIFO Problems and Clip Production

Dvorak and Curry discuss the "FIFO" (First In, First Out) problem of managing high email volumes on "show night." They explain their strict deadlines for donations and clip submissions, noting that anything sent after midnight Pacific Time usually gets pushed to the next show. Curry describes his morning routine of producing clips to ensure they are fresh in his memory for the broadcast.

Understanding No Agenda
Episode 425 1:50:35 - 1:55:17

425: Understanding No Agenda

Show Prep Logistics and Production Costs

The hosts contrast their preparation styles: Dvorak collects clips and articles spontaneously, often using an H2 recorder while watching movies, while Curry builds a more structured outline. They address a question about production costs, arguing that "time is money" and the "Value for Value" model accounts for the hours spent on research and studio setup.

Hats of State
Episode 367 1:48:20 - 1:52:33

367: Hats of State

No Agenda Clip Show, Comedy Production

The hosts discuss the upcoming Sunday "Clip Show," which features a compilation of significant and humorous audio segments from the show's history. The production process involves editing short clips into a comedic narrative, similar to the style of "Austin Powers." The segment includes a final knighting for Sir Spike, Sir Paul, and Sir Armin before transitioning to the second half of the program.