6 chapters across the catalog
The decentralized social media network known as the Fediverse is expanding as platforms like Gab.com and Minds.com adopt federation protocols. Comparisons are drawn between the current state of social media and the early days of AOL and peering agreements in the late 1990s. There is speculation that Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey may eventually federate the platform to maintain dominance.
A new list of keywords allegedly used by the National Security Agency (NSA) to trigger surveillance machines is discussed. The list, reportedly sourced from a Business Insider report on the Prism program, includes unexpected terms such as Steve Case, Bubba the Love Sponge, and "Texas Jihad." Skepticism is expressed regarding the validity of the list and the inclusion of specific entities like "MI-17."
Corporatism and the President's Advisory Council on Jobs
The hosts read the roster of the President's Advisory Council on Jobs and the Economy, noting the heavy presence of CEOs from companies like Intel, Comcast, and Facebook. They define this alliance between government and major corporations as modern corporatism or "intellectual fascism." The segment argues that these appointments prioritize corporate profits over public interest.
Obama Jobs Council, Charles River Associates Shills
President Obama's new economic appointments are criticized, specifically AOL co-founder Steve Case and UC Berkeley professor Carl Shapiro. Shapiro is identified as a former consultant for Charles River Associates, a firm known for defending corporations against antitrust lawsuits. The documentary "Inside Job" is recommended as a companion to these topics.
Steve Case, Flock of Seagulls Misconception
A brief humorous aside addresses a mistaken belief that AOL co-founder Steve Case was a member of the 1980s new wave band Flock of Seagulls. The hosts laugh at the absurdity of the claim and the reaction of a listener who found the confusion particularly entertaining.
Speculation is mounting regarding a potential merger between AOL and Yahoo as a response to Microsoft's interest in the space. Analysts note that the homepages of both services have become nearly identical in layout and function. The departure of visionary leaders like Steve Case has left AOL appearing "rudderless" as it struggles to maintain its former cultural relevance.
