Topic: Spare

The discussion turns to Prince Harry's memoir, *Spare*, in which he accused Camilla of leaking stories to the press to rehabilitate her own image at his expense. Tina Brown acknowledges the role of sophisticated PR secretaries in transforming the public's perception of Charles and Camilla. The hosts suggest NPR's coverage is an attempt to capitalize on the high ratings generated by Harry and Meghan's media ventures.

The FDA issued an emergency use authorization allowing the monkeypox vaccine to be delivered subcutaneously at one-fifth of the standard dose to stretch limited supplies. This "dose-sparing" strategy is based on a single study, raising concerns among patients about its actual effectiveness. The change from intramuscular to under-the-skin injection is criticized as an experimental move on the public without sufficient data.

The U.S. State Department ordered the closure of the Russian consulate in San Francisco, the oldest in the country, dating back to 1852. Black smoke was seen billowing from the consulate chimney as staff reportedly burned records before the Saturday deadline. The closure is a retaliatory move following Russia's expulsion of hundreds of U.S. diplomats.

The hosts review a 2002 Australian film titled "Seconds to Spare," mocking its poor acting and production quality. They highlight a specific scene where a character accuses the CIA of using drug money to fund covert operations, noting how "No Agenda" themes occasionally appear in fictional media.

Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the session from San Francisco, noting the heavy fog and local "Spare the Air" restrictions on wood-burning fires. They discuss a Wired article regarding a proposed 14-level underground bus station and high-speed rail hub. The hosts express skepticism regarding the feasibility of French TGV or German ICE style trains operating on existing local tracks.