Strange News: AI and the New Age of 'Book Burning', eBay and Stalking, Fauci Rides Again, and More
Summary
Hosts Matt, Noel, and Ben discuss the deaths of musicians Glen Hansard and Kavinsky, then analyze activist Sam Tunick’s federal charges for using Graphene OS to protect his phone data at border control. They detail eBay’s $50 million settlement for harassing journalists and MySpace’s algorithm-free relaunch. The episode concludes with Dr. Anthony Fauci pleading the Fifth during a Senate hearing on COVID-19 origins, exploring lab leak theories and political implications.
Topics discussed
Intro, musician obituary, and Kavinsky's Olympic song
Activist detained at airport and Graphene OS privacy
eBay harassment lawsuit and 'White Knight' strategy
MySpace revival and corporate culture discussion
Ad breaks and podcast promotions
Anthony Fauci testimony and COVID origins debate
Data centers exempt from acid rain regulations
Southern Water sewage scandal and executive trial
Ad breaks and podcast promotions
Wagner Group remnants and tramadol trade in Africa
AI companies buying and destroying physical books
Outro, listener contact info, and final ads
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