I didn’t really know how much advertisers surveil us.  I started to look into it.  Then I stopped looking: how much we have all lost our privacy was just too scary.  I look back on 10 years of reading in this Episode 261: Ways We Are All Getting Torq'd. Find the Show Notes page at: https://attackadspodcast.blogspot.com/2025/04/episode-261-ways-we-are-all-getting.html

The discussion opens with how ideology influences everyone, even scientists. Key scientific breakthroughs reshape our view of the universe, showcasing figures like Luca Turin in sensory science. An intriguing hypothesis connects biology and quantum physics to our sense of smell, exploring societal impacts of past pandemics. The legacy of Oswald Avery sheds light on DNA research amidst misinformation challenges. Lastly, media's role in shaping ideologies is scrutinized, alongside the ongoing fight against false narratives.

Not only does a constant onslaught of information drown us, we must sift out not just business propaganda, but ideological propaganda as well.  The effort leaves us cynical.  We should blame those in the title of Episode 259: The Butchers of Certainty. Find the Show Notes at: https://attackadspodcast.blogspot.com/2025/02/episode-259-butchers-of-certainty.html

This episode dives into how the label 'foreign' escalates the perceived threat of media influence. It humorously critiques U.S. laws targeting foreign ownership while advocating for dialogue over discord in politics. The relationship between political narratives and social media's role, especially concerning American values, is scrutinized. Personal anecdotes about gluten-related terms add a relatable touch, alongside reflections on the ethics of podcast funding and the valuable companionship fostered through listener interactions.

The podcast dives into the origins of the phrase 'long time no see' and its historical literary connections. Listeners are treated to delightful anecdotes about The Goon Show and its absurd humor, even capturing royal fans. A critical look at the National Association of Manufacturers reveals how they influenced radio to express anti-government sentiments through serialized dramas. The discussion also touches on corporate morality, challenging stereotypes about size, while reflecting on labor tensions and the lasting impact of propaganda on public perception.

Dive into the hidden dangers of a cashless society, where major credit card companies wield power over small businesses and consumers. Explore the depths of societal understanding through a quirky childhood memory of nail clippers and a critical view of economic forces at play. Reflect on the urgent issue of homelessness, urging wealthy property owners to take responsibility. With a mix of storytelling and current news updates, the podcast paints a vivid picture of today's financial landscape.

We humans are funny critters, with loves and hatreds and outright loathings that too often bear no real resemblance to any cogent rationality.  Yet it's all we've got.  I explore this in Episode 255: Reasoning & Irrationality. Find the Show Notes at: http://attackadspodcast.blogspot.com/2024/12/episode-255-reasoning-irrationality.html

Explore the chilling insights of Dorothy Thompson on the rise of fascism and its historical connections to America. Discover the parallels between early 20th-century Italy and current societal fears exploited for power. Delve into the legacy of Major General Smedley Butler and the bizarre coup conspiracy against FDR. Examine how wealthy elites influenced political narratives and reflect on the ominous similarities between past regimes and today's political landscape. Brace yourself for a thought-provoking journey through history and its echoes in modern times.

Dive into the unexpected world of subscription models and discover how they trap consumers in frustrating Software as a Service experiences. Explore the decline of SaaS spending and learn about the challenges of outdated pricing strategies. Get insights on monopolistic practices inflating consumer prices and hear personal anecdotes that illustrate current trends. Plus, uncover clever parallels between the razor industry and SaaS marketing tactics, showcasing how businesses innovate while keeping consumers dependent.

When something is new, its very introduction can cause friction, even havoc.  People always wonder how good or bad things could get.  In this Episode 252, I offer a bit disjointed ranting on the business end of Large Language Models, or Stupid ASOLs. Find the Show Notes at: https://attackadspodcast.blogspot.com/2024/10/episode-252-stupid-asols.html