4 chapters across the catalog
The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge is identified as a highly orchestrated public relations campaign rather than a spontaneous viral movement. A clip of Kermit the Frog participating is criticized for its poor quality. The hosts argue that the campaign is a form of mass manipulation, forcing people to participate or face social stigma.
C-SPAN Social Media Specialist, Tout Investment Analysis
The hosts discover that C-SPAN has hired a "digital social media specialist" and is promoting a platform called "Tout." They find that World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and Vince McMahon are major investors in Tout, leading them to conclude that the political conventions are being treated like professional wrestling.
Adam Curry recounts a meeting with WWE champion The Miz at his studio, discussing how the wrestler meticulously crafts his "bad guy" persona. The hosts compare the scripted nature of professional wrestling to the "media farce" of cable news, praising Vince McMahon's marketing brilliance.
Vince McMahon's attempt to compete with the NFL through the XFL is described as a commercial fiasco. Jesse Ventura's involvement as an announcer for the league while serving as Governor of Minnesota caused significant friction with the local media. The segment also touches on the contested Senate race between Al Franken and Norm Coleman in Minnesota.
