8 chapters across the catalog
The hosts compare the "Asian model" of social media (TikTok), which emphasizes harmony and agreement within groups, to the "American model" (Twitter/X), which thrives on strife and conflict. They argue that the push to ban TikTok in the US is driven more by advertising competition from Google and Meta than by genuine concerns over Chinese influence or political content.
A 2010 Time Magazine article is cited, describing a "weird" encounter where FBI Director Robert Mueller walked into Mark Zuckerberg's office. The hosts argue that Facebook and other social media platforms are essentially government agencies with private-facing CEOs. They mention In-Q-Tel, the CIA's venture capital firm, as the foundational funder for many tech companies, including Palantir.
A news report from New Delhi reveals that Meta (Facebook) temporarily adjusted its hate speech policies to allow calls for violence against Russian "invaders" and support for the neo-Nazi Azov Battalion. The hosts find it "baffling" that a tech giant would openly permit hate speech and support for a previously banned extremist group based on shifting political winds. They argue these fluid rules contribute to a more volatile and controlled society.
Following 9-11, the FBI adopted a "no tolerance" policy that led to the erosion of legal boundaries. A 2009 Time Magazine article revealed that then-FBI Director Robert Mueller had his own office within the Facebook building, illustrating the deep ties between big tech and government surveillance. Adam Curry notes that he built Podcasting 2.0 specifically to protect free speech from this type of centralized government and corporate interference.
A donor note from Chism Cook describes an incident in Madison, Wisconsin, where a listener was kicked out of a bar for discussing Antifa and BLM. The hosts discuss the rise of "woke scolds" and the enforcement of political taboos in public spaces, comparing the current social climate to George Orwell's 1984.
Investigators used Micah Johnson’s Facebook activity, including "likes" on pages advocating violence against police, to establish a motive. This method of establishing "guilt by association" is identified as a primary way the FBI populates its BIE watchlists and justifies surveillance of social media users.
Kanye West publicly declared his support for Donald Trump during a 2016 concert in Sacramento, California. During a 17-minute rant, West also accused Google and Facebook of lying to the public before abruptly ending the show. This event led to West's hospitalization for what was officially described as exhaustion and mental health issues.
Sean King released a 72-page financial report to defend his reputation after public backlash regarding a Rihanna-hosted award ceremony. Investigation into King's Real Justice PAC reveals significant financial backing from Facebook co-founder Dustin Moskovitz and his wife Keri Tuna, totaling approximately $2 million.
