RedCircle VERIFY_TOKEN_e5da434d-6c7e-4334-a628-580c93c37718 -- Rendered At Sun, 03 May 2026 18:12:55 +0000 Cargo Cult https://redcircle.com/shows/cargo-cult en-US All rights reserved. Cargo Cult Cargo Cult is a podcast hosted by Naomi Karavani and Michele Greenstein that pulls back the curtain on these often forgotten forces shaping our digital world. A cargo cult is what happens when people copy the visible parts of something they think is successful — without understanding the deeper systems that actually make it work. The term comes from World War II. Allied forces landed on remote Pacific islands, bringing with them cargo: food, medicine, equipment, and more. To the islanders, this sudden arrival of wealth and technology seemed magical. They noticed planes landing on runways, soldiers in uniforms, and people waving flags. After the war ended and the soldiers left, some islanders built fake airstrips and wooden control towers, hoping the cargo would return. They copied the form, not the function. Today, “cargo cult” is used as a metaphor — especially in science, business, and tech — to describe similar behavior: loving the surface level symbols of surface of success but missing what actually made it happen. So what does this have to do with Big Tech? A lot. In the tech world, there’s a tendency to imitate what successful companies look like on the outside — without really understanding what made them powerful in the first place. Teams copy Google’s culture, Amazon’s strategies, or Facebook’s experiments — but often miss the context that made those things effective. We believe the real engines of Big Tech’s rise are rarely talked about: deep partnerships with the state, access to elite networks, and the invisible support of powerful institutions. Our podcast, Cargo Cult, is about exposing this reality — and pushing back on the myth that tech’s biggest winners got there through merit, hustle, or pure technical innovation alone. The truth is, many of these companies were shaped from the beginning by their relationships with the U.S. government and intelligence community. Google got early funding connected to DARPA. Amazon’s cloud arm, AWS, landed massive contracts with the CIA and Department of Defense. Palantir was funded by In-Q-Tel, the CIA’s venture fund. Microsoft has long been a major federal contractor and now runs one of the largest government cloud platforms on the planet. These companies weren’t just building better software. They were aligning with the long-term agendas of state power — especially around surveillance, data collection, and behavior control. And yet, all over the world, tech founders and governments keep chasing and advertising the aesthetic of Big Tech: innovation labs, AI initiatives, moonshot pitches, and “disruption” — without understanding the political and financial structures that actually enabled these companies to dominate. This is the heart of cargo cult thinking. It’s not that Big Tech didn’t have talented engineers or good products. And we have nothing against open-plan offices or slick pitch decks. But the story we’re often told — of scrappy underdogs changing the world with nothing but brains and code — leaves out everything that made that kind of success possible in the first place. Regulatory capture, government funding, military contracts, surveillance programs, the workings of capitalism, and aligning with long-term elite agendas — these are the real foundations of Big Tech, and it's the stuff we like to talk about on the show. We also talk about pop culture sometimes. ____ Complain at cargocultpod@gmail.com e5da434d-6c7e-4334-a628-580c93c37718 Cargo Cult is a podcast hosted by Naomi Karavani and Michele Greenstein that pulls back the curtain on these often forgotten forces shaping our digital world.

A cargo cult is what happens when people copy the visible parts of something they think is successful — without understanding the deeper systems that actually make it work.

The term comes from World War II. Allied forces landed on remote Pacific islands, bringing with them cargo: food, medicine, equipment, and more. To the islanders, this sudden arrival of wealth and technology seemed magical. They noticed planes landing on runways, soldiers in uniforms, and people waving flags. After the war ended and the soldiers left, some islanders built fake airstrips and wooden control towers, hoping the cargo would return. They copied the form, not the function.

Today, “cargo cult” is used as a metaphor — especially in science, business, and tech — to describe similar behavior: loving the surface level symbols of surface of success but missing what actually made it happen.

So what does this have to do with Big Tech?

A lot.

In the tech world, there’s a tendency to imitate what successful companies look like on the outside — without really understanding what made them powerful in the first place. Teams copy Google’s culture, Amazon’s strategies, or Facebook’s experiments — but often miss the context that made those things effective.

We believe the real engines of Big Tech’s rise are rarely talked about: deep partnerships with the state, access to elite networks, and the invisible support of powerful institutions. Our podcast, Cargo Cult, is about exposing this reality — and pushing back on the myth that tech’s biggest winners got there through merit, hustle, or pure technical innovation alone.

The truth is, many of these companies were shaped from the beginning by their relationships with the U.S. government and intelligence community. Google got early funding connected to DARPA. Amazon’s cloud arm, AWS, landed massive contracts with the CIA and Department of Defense. Palantir was funded by In-Q-Tel, the CIA’s venture fund. Microsoft has long been a major federal contractor and now runs one of the largest government cloud platforms on the planet.

These companies weren’t just building better software. They were aligning with the long-term agendas of state power — especially around surveillance, data collection, and behavior control. And yet, all over the world, tech founders and governments keep chasing and advertising the aesthetic of Big Tech: innovation labs, AI initiatives, moonshot pitches, and “disruption” — without understanding the political and financial structures that actually enabled these companies to dominate.

This is the heart of cargo cult thinking.

It’s not that Big Tech didn’t have talented engineers or good products. And we have nothing against open-plan offices or slick pitch decks. But the story we’re often told — of scrappy underdogs changing the world with nothing but brains and code — leaves out everything that made that kind of success possible in the first place. Regulatory capture, government funding, military contracts, surveillance programs, the workings of capitalism, and aligning with long-term elite agendas — these are the real foundations of Big Tech, and it's the stuff we like to talk about on the show. We also talk about pop culture sometimes.

____

Complain at cargocultpod@gmail.com

]]> episodic no Cargo Cult cargocultpod@gmail.com yes full Requiem for a Friend Requiem for a Friend 24 2 Cargo Cult Friendship is so important. Photo: Avi Schiffman

]]> <p>Friendship is so important. Photo: Avi Schiffman</p> 9b3825e6-50ce-4d39-a52c-9c9193824f93 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 03 Sep 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3527 yes full STOP SPYING!!!!! (ft. Albert Fox Cahn) STOP SPYING!!!!! (ft. Albert Fox Cahn) 23 2 Cargo Cult We ask Albert Fox Cahn, founder and Executive Director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.), about how local policing has turned into local surveillance, the campaign to ban facial recognition in New York State, personalized "AI" pricing, opting out at airport security, and more.








]]> <p>We ask Albert Fox Cahn, founder and Executive Director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.), about how local policing has turned into local surveillance, the campaign to ban facial recognition in New York State, personalized &#34;AI&#34; pricing, opting out at airport security, and more.</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Cahn&#39;s Business Insider piece on home insurance spying: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/homeowners-insurance-nightmare-cancellation-surveillance-drone-ai-future-2024-8" rel="nofollow">https://www.businessinsider.com/homeowners-insurance-nightmare-cancellation-surveillance-drone-ai-future-2024-8</a></li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>Cahn&#39;s Business Insider piece on AI pickpocketing: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-quietly-picking-your-pocket-with-personalized-pricing-2024-7" rel="nofollow">https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-quietly-picking-your-pocket-with-personalized-pricing-2024-7</a></li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>Cahn&#39;s WIRED piece on expanding surveillance after January 6: <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-the-capitol-attack-doesnt-justify-expanding-surveillance/" rel="nofollow">https://www.wired.com/story/opinion-the-capitol-attack-doesnt-justify-expanding-surveillance/</a></li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>STOP&#39;s Pregnancy Panopticon Report: <a href="https://www.stopspying.org/pregnancy-panopticon" rel="nofollow">https://www.stopspying.org/pregnancy-panopticon</a></li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>Ban the Scan NY: <a href="https://www.banthescan.org/" rel="nofollow">https://www.banthescan.org/</a></li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>Cahn on X: <a href="https://x.com/FoxCahn?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" rel="nofollow">https://x.com/FoxCahn?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor</a></li></ul><p><br></p> b3cce8bd-d0d1-469a-b4bb-e239f7f55e5a https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 27 Aug 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3600 yes full Storyliving & Dying by Disney Storyliving & Dying by Disney 22 2 Cargo Cult Disclaimer of Liability:

The "Cargo Cult" podcast (hereinafter referred to as "the Podcast") is produced and distributed by Naomi Karavani, Michele Greenstein, their affiliates, partners, agents, and any of their representatives (collectively referred to as "the Producer"). By accessing and listening to the Podcast, you acknowledge and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions in this disclaimer.

No Professional Advice:

The Podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be construed as, professional advice of any kind, including but not limited to legal, medical, financial, psychological, or other professional advice. The Producer makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information or content provided on the Podcast. You should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of the Podcast.

No Warranty of Content:

The Podcast and all content provided therein are presented "as is" and "as available" without any warranty, express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The Producer does not warrant that the Podcast will be uninterrupted, error-free, or free from viruses or other harmful components.

Limitation of Liability:

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Producer, including its officers, directors, employees, agents, affiliates, and licensors, shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any damages whatsoever, including but not limited to loss of profits, data, or other intangible losses, arising out of or in connection with your use of the Podcast, whether based on warranty, contract, tort, or any other legal theory, even if the Producer has been advised of the possibility of such damages.

Third-Party Content and Links:

The Podcast may contain references or links to third-party websites, services, or content. The inclusion of any link or reference does not imply endorsement or approval by the Producer of such third-party sites or content. The Producer is not responsible for the availability, content, or accuracy of any third-party websites or services, and any interactions with third parties are solely between you and the third party. You agree that the Producer shall not be liable for any damages or losses arising from your use of or reliance on any third-party content.

Intellectual Property:

The Podcast and all related content, including but not limited to audio recordings, scripts, trademarks, logos, and other intellectual property, are the Producer's or its licensors' exclusive property. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, or modification of any content from the Podcast is strictly prohibited without the prior written consent of the Producer.

Changes to Disclaimer:

The Producer reserves the right to modify, amend, or update this disclaimer at any time without prior notice. Your continued use of the Podcast following any changes constitutes your acceptance of the revised disclaimer. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer periodically for any changes.

Governing Law and Jurisdiction:

This disclaimer shall be governed by and construed by the laws of Amerikkka, without regard to its conflict of law principles. Any disputes arising out of or related to this disclaimer or your use of the Podcast shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Amerikkka.

Severability:

If any provision of this disclaimer is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue to be valid and enforceable. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed modified to the extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable while maintaining the original intent of the provision to the maximum extent possible.

Acknowledgment:

By accessing and listening to the Podcast, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this disclaimer. If you do not agree with any part of this disclaimer, you should not access or listen to the Podcast.

For any questions or concerns regarding this disclaimer, please contact your mom at 1-666-420-6969.

]]> <p><strong>Disclaimer of Liability:</strong></p><p>The &#34;Cargo Cult&#34; podcast (hereinafter referred to as &#34;the Podcast&#34;) is produced and distributed by Naomi Karavani, Michele Greenstein, their affiliates, partners, agents, and any of their representatives (collectively referred to as &#34;the Producer&#34;). By accessing and listening to the Podcast, you acknowledge and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions in this disclaimer.</p><p><strong>No Professional Advice:</strong></p><p>The Podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be construed as, professional advice of any kind, including but not limited to legal, medical, financial, psychological, or other professional advice. The Producer makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information or content provided on the Podcast. You should consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content of the Podcast.</p><p><strong>No Warranty of Content:</strong></p><p>The Podcast and all content provided therein are presented &#34;as is&#34; and &#34;as available&#34; without any warranty, express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The Producer does not warrant that the Podcast will be uninterrupted, error-free, or free from viruses or other harmful components.</p><p><strong>Limitation of Liability:</strong></p><p>To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Producer, including its officers, directors, employees, agents, affiliates, and licensors, shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any damages whatsoever, including but not limited to loss of profits, data, or other intangible losses, arising out of or in connection with your use of the Podcast, whether based on warranty, contract, tort, or any other legal theory, even if the Producer has been advised of the possibility of such damages.</p><p><strong>Third-Party Content and Links:</strong></p><p>The Podcast may contain references or links to third-party websites, services, or content. The inclusion of any link or reference does not imply endorsement or approval by the Producer of such third-party sites or content. The Producer is not responsible for the availability, content, or accuracy of any third-party websites or services, and any interactions with third parties are solely between you and the third party. You agree that the Producer shall not be liable for any damages or losses arising from your use of or reliance on any third-party content.</p><p><strong>Intellectual Property:</strong></p><p>The Podcast and all related content, including but not limited to audio recordings, scripts, trademarks, logos, and other intellectual property, are the Producer&#39;s or its licensors&#39; exclusive property. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, or modification of any content from the Podcast is strictly prohibited without the prior written consent of the Producer.</p><p><strong>Changes to Disclaimer:</strong></p><p>The Producer reserves the right to modify, amend, or update this disclaimer at any time without prior notice. Your continued use of the Podcast following any changes constitutes your acceptance of the revised disclaimer. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer periodically for any changes.</p><p><strong>Governing Law and Jurisdiction:</strong></p><p>This disclaimer shall be governed by and construed by the laws of Amerikkka, without regard to its conflict of law principles. Any disputes arising out of or related to this disclaimer or your use of the Podcast shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Amerikkka.</p><p><strong>Severability:</strong></p><p>If any provision of this disclaimer is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue to be valid and enforceable. The invalid or unenforceable provision shall be deemed modified to the extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable while maintaining the original intent of the provision to the maximum extent possible.</p><p><strong>Acknowledgment:</strong></p><p>By accessing and listening to the Podcast, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this disclaimer. If you do not agree with any part of this disclaimer, you should not access or listen to the Podcast.</p><p>For any questions or concerns regarding this disclaimer, please contact your mom at 1-666-420-6969.</p> 92e512a0-df74-41f1-8c35-4ab219943517 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 20 Aug 2024 09:08:00 +0000 2840 yes full JD Vance in My Pants (ft. Jorge Rocha) JD Vance in My Pants (ft. Jorge Rocha) 20 2 Cargo Cult We got a Peter Thiel-funded venture capital tech bro on the ticket before GTA 6

]]> <p>We got a Peter Thiel-funded venture capital tech bro on the ticket before GTA 6</p><ul><li>Jorge on X: <a href="https://x.com/LineGoesDown" rel="nofollow">https://x.com/LineGoesDown</a></li><li>Unlimited Hangout article about Vance &amp; Thiel: <a href="https://unlimitedhangout.com/2024/07/investigative-reports/the-man-behind-trumps-vp-pick-its-worse-than-you-think/" rel="nofollow">https://unlimitedhangout.com/2024/07/investigative-reports/the-man-behind-trumps-vp-pick-its-worse-than-you-think/</a></li></ul> aa6bd042-256a-4de8-b904-bfc4d0a1e24c https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:08:00 +0000 5109 yes full Who Needs Arms Who Needs Arms 19 2 Cargo Cult Thousands of unionized workers at Samsung, the world’s largest memory chipmaker, are striking against the company’s refusal to negotiate. Demands include a 3.5% base rate increase, paid leave for the date of union establishment, compensation for loss of wages during the strike, and transparency into the incentive-based bonus system. The union has about 30k members and represents 24% of all workers within the company. We also discuss driverless taxis, cashier-less bullet purchases, and armless eldercare robots.

]]> <p>Thousands of unionized workers at Samsung, the world’s largest memory chipmaker, are striking against the company’s refusal to negotiate. Demands include a 3.5% base rate increase, paid leave for the date of union establishment, compensation for loss of wages during the strike, and transparency into the incentive-based bonus system. The union has about 30k members and represents 24% of all workers within the company. We also discuss driverless taxis, cashier-less bullet purchases, and armless eldercare robots.</p> be5170b4-db47-4720-8ee5-9de28a42acb5 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 16 Jul 2024 09:08:00 +0000 5153 yes full When Google Met Wikileaks When Google Met Wikileaks 18 2 Cargo Cult We explore the secret 2011 meeting between then-Google CEO Eric Schmidt and then-on-house-arrest Julian Assange and consider how the internet has changed the relationship between people and the corporate state. We also talk about brat summer and the Council on Foreign Relations. Photo: Eric Schmidt & Jared Cohen

  • Transcript of 2011 Meeting: https://wikileaks.org/Transcript-Meeting-Assange-Schmidt.html
  • Vogue Interview: https://www.vogue.com/article/julian-assange-interview-when-google-met-wikileaks
  • Democracy Now Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unJ_8oiuQyU 
]]> <p>We explore the secret 2011 meeting between then-Google CEO Eric Schmidt and then-on-house-arrest Julian Assange and consider how the internet has changed the relationship between people and the corporate state. We also talk about brat summer and the Council on Foreign Relations. Photo: Eric Schmidt &amp; Jared Cohen</p><ul><li>Transcript of 2011 Meeting: https://wikileaks.org/Transcript-Meeting-Assange-Schmidt.html</li><li>Vogue Interview: https://www.vogue.com/article/julian-assange-interview-when-google-met-wikileaks</li><li>Democracy Now Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unJ_8oiuQyU </li></ul> b19f4558-1d62-4f6d-8fda-a9bee035e6a9 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 09 Jul 2024 09:08:00 +0000 4720 yes full Cypherpunk Wikifreaks Cypherpunk Wikifreaks 17 2 Cargo Cult We talk about Julian Assange's plea deal, the "censorship pyramid," encryption as resistance, an NSA patent Assange found in 1999, Hillary Clinton's Russian Wikileaks, the CIA being able to hack into Apple and Android cellphones, and more. TW: Cenk Uygur's voice at 7:30 ish. Photo: Julian Assange

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🔥✨📆💫☄️

Pre-order the 2025 Cargo Cult Calendar: https://tally.so/r/mDel4j

🔥✨📆💫☄️

]]> <p>We talk about Julian Assange&#39;s plea deal, the &#34;censorship pyramid,&#34; encryption as resistance, an NSA patent Assange found in 1999, Hillary Clinton&#39;s Russian Wikileaks, the CIA being able to hack into Apple and Android cellphones, and more. TW: Cenk Uygur&#39;s voice at 7:30 ish. Photo: Julian Assange</p><ul><li>Assange’s 2006 Blog Post: <a href="https://cryptome.org/iq-org/IQ.ORG.htm" rel="nofollow">https://cryptome.org/iq-org/IQ.ORG.htm</a></li><li>Independent Article on the NSA Patent Assange Found: <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/network-this-is-just-between-us-and-the-spies-1126316.html" rel="nofollow">https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/network-this-is-just-between-us-and-the-spies-1126316.html</a></li><li>Guardian Article on Assange hacking MILNET in 1991: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2011/jan/30/julian-assange-wikileaks-profile" rel="nofollow">https://www.theguardian.com/media/2011/jan/30/julian-assange-wikileaks-profile</a></li><li>Video of US Airstrike on Afghanistan: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?ab_channel=AlJazeeraEnglish&v=UaqY12VHFv4" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaqY12VHFv4&amp;ab_channel=AlJazeeraEnglish</a></li><li>Recording of Conversation between Eric Schmidt &amp; Julian Assange: <a href="https://web.archive.org/web/20130915053137/http://wlstorage.net/file/cms/assange-schmidt.mp3" rel="nofollow">https://web.archive.org/web/20130915053137/http://wlstorage.net/file/cms/assange-schmidt.mp3</a></li><li>Full Text of When Google Met Wikileaks: <a href="https://archive.org/details/whengooglemetwik0000assa" rel="nofollow">https://archive.org/details/whengooglemetwik0000assa</a></li></ul><p>-</p><p>-</p><p>🔥✨📆💫☄️</p><p>Pre-order the 2025 Cargo Cult Calendar: https://tally.so/r/mDel4j</p><p>🔥✨📆💫☄️</p> a19cdf10-86a5-45be-aa5f-14b1cf183385 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3301 yes full Apple pAI Apple pAI 16 2 Cargo Cult Apple's launching a new set of generative AI tools and making privacy promises about integrating with OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Elon Musk is OpenAI's #1 hater, and also bad at dating.

]]> <p>Apple&#39;s launching a new set of generative AI tools and making privacy promises about integrating with OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Elon Musk is OpenAI&#39;s #1 hater, and also bad at dating.</p> 3e8e20dd-2b3c-4e35-afe4-779badef78cf https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 18 Jun 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3145 yes full AI Warfare Conference AI Warfare Conference 15 2 Cargo Cult We watch 20 hours of the two-day "AI Expo for National Competitiveness" so you don't have to, and talk about Eric Schmidt's new kamikaze drone company. Photo: Eric Schmidt

]]> <p>We watch 20 hours of the two-day &#34;AI Expo for National Competitiveness&#34; so you don&#39;t have to, and talk about Eric Schmidt&#39;s new kamikaze drone company. Photo: Eric Schmidt</p> 12ca36c9-d726-4a33-ae44-889caee3bf4b https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 04 Jun 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3840 yes full Mark the Cable Guy (Underwater Internet P2) Mark the Cable Guy (Underwater Internet P2) 14 2 Cargo Cult Private U.S. corporations like Google and Meta mediating access to the internet is lowkey goated when digital colonialism is the vibe. Photo: Mark Zuckerberg

]]> <p>Private U.S. corporations like Google and Meta mediating access to the internet is lowkey goated when digital colonialism is the vibe. Photo: Mark Zuckerberg</p> 6c162843-09d7-49b7-a8a6-3ee66c6cd6f1 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 28 May 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3545 yes full ChatGPT Lost Her Voice ChatGPT Lost Her Voice 13 2 Cargo Cult Scarlett Johansson is suing OpenAI for using a voice "eerily similar" to hers for ChatGPT 4o. We also yap about NYC Mayor Eric Adams's voice clone speaking Yiddish, ElevenLabs turning every news article into a podcast, BBL Drizzy, Joaquin Phoenix's high-waisted pants, and Google entering its "Gemini era."

]]> <p>Scarlett Johansson is suing OpenAI for using a voice &#34;eerily similar&#34; to hers for ChatGPT 4o. We also yap about NYC Mayor Eric Adams&#39;s voice clone speaking Yiddish, ElevenLabs turning every news article into a podcast, BBL Drizzy, Joaquin Phoenix&#39;s high-waisted pants, and Google entering its &#34;Gemini era.&#34;</p> 24cf353f-0ee3-4aa0-9f9b-590c77a1ae05 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 21 May 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3589 yes full Deep Blue CIA (Underwater Internet P1) Deep Blue CIA (Underwater Internet P1) 12 2 Cargo Cult We're talking about the iPad commercial, German anti-Tesla activists, AI dating concierges, and the underwater internet cables of the deep sea bourgeoisie. Photo: Jeff Bezos

]]> <p>We&#39;re talking about the iPad commercial, German anti-Tesla activists, AI dating concierges, and the underwater internet cables of the deep sea bourgeoisie. Photo: Jeff Bezos</p> a096294d-adea-41c9-a66f-090053bf4df7 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 14 May 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3593 yes full Digital Money Honey Digital Money Honey 10 2 Cargo Cult We talk about central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), which will enable a new level of financial surveillance and social control. And we’re joined by John F O’Donnell, a guy with horrible karaoke etiquette. We promise we're not a con op lim hang !!! Photo: Jerome Powell

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Kitty History: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-Lvv1f5Qu4


Guaranteed Income Pilot Program Act of 2023: https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5776?s=1&r=42#:~:text=Introduced%20in%20House%20(09%2F27%2F2023)&text=This%20bill%20directs%20the%20Department,the%20ages%20of%2018%2D65.


A Proposal for CBDC based UBI: https://www.institute.global/insights/tech-and-digitalisation/proposal-web3-based-universal-basic-income


IMF’s CBDC Virtual Handbook: https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/fintech/central-bank-digital-currency/virtual-handbook


“Greatest backdoor Wall Street bailout of all time”: https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303763804579183680751473884


Digital Currency vs. Existing Electronic Currency: https://www.nttdatapay.com/blog/types-of-digital-currency/#:~:text=What%20distinguishes%20digital%20currency%20from,those%20connected%20to%20the%20Internet.


CBDC vs. Crypto: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/11/cbdcs-how-different-cryptocurrency-stablecoin/#:~:text=The%20main%20difference%20between%20CBDCs,data%20protection%20and%20online%20privacy.


The Federal Reserve Dissing Crypto: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SxNyL3YFaM

IMF Dissing Crypto: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4NpCf5Phj0

BIS Dissing Crypto: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mvSsM1uqGo


The benefits of a cashless society: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/benefits-cashless-society-mobile-payments/


Atlantic Council CBDC Tracker: https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/cbdctracker/


Atlantic Council Donors: https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/report/2022-annual-report/


IMF Working Hard on Global CBDC Platform Concept, Georgieva Says: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-06-19/imf-working-hard-on-global-cbdc-platform-concept-georgieva-says?embedded-checkout=true


BIS Survey on CBDCs: https://www.bis.org/publ/bppdf/bispap136.pdf


BIS Explained: https://www.bis.org/about/index.htm


BIS Livestream, “Central bank digital currencies, digital payments, and the future of money”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVD1ZFPzcbg


Biden Executive Order on CBDCs: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/03/09/executive-order-on-ensuring-responsible-development-of-digital-assets/


Statement from Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen on the Release of Reports on Digital Assets: https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0956


US Policy Objectives for a CBDC System: https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/09-2022-Technical-Evaluation-US-CBDC-System.pdf


The IMF on Nigeria’s CBDC: https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2021/11/15/na111621-five-observations-on-nigerias-central-bank-digital-currency


U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) announces “Catalyst: Inclusive Cashless Payment Partnership” for India: https://2012-2017.usaid.gov/india/press-releases/oct-14-2016-usaid-launches-catalyst-drive-cashless-payments-india


Indian PM Modi Announces Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 to be Pulled Out of Circulation immediately: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/rs-500-and-rs-1000-notes-pulled-out-of-circulation-immediately-pm-narendra-modi/articleshow/55315473.cms


The Federal Reserve on Programmable CBDC: https://www.federalreserve.gov/publications/files/money-and-payments-20220120.pdf


JP Morgan on Programmable Money: https://www.jpmorgan.com/onyx/programmable-payments-purpose-bound-money


Bank of England calls on ministers to decide whether a CBDC should be programmable: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2021/06/21/bank-england-tells-ministers-intervene-digital-currency-programming/#:~:text=Bank%20of%20England%20tells%20ministers%20to%20intervene%20on%20digital%20currency%20'programming',-Digital%20cash%20could&text=The%20Bank%20of%20England%20has,is%20spent%20by%20the%20recipient.


Eswar Prasad on the “Future of Money” at the WEF: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyANVmHJB3c


Factchecking the Eswar Prasad Quote: https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-world-economic-forum-cashless-society-false-cbdc-592718364311


Ron DeSantis on CBDC and “Woke Banking”: https://www.c-span.org/video/?532981-1/governor-ron-desantis-campaigns-hampton-nh


Republican Lawmakers Introduce Legislation to Ban a CBDC in the U.S.: https://www.coindesk.com/policy/2024/02/27/republican-lawmakers-introduce-legislation-to-ban-a-cbdc-in-the-us-again/


Trump Campaign Vows to Block CBDC: https://thehill.com/business/4416139-trump-vows-to-block-creation-of-digital-dollar/


Trump Admin Floats Idea of “USDC,” US Digital Currency: https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/17/22888225/jared-kushner-us-treasury-mnuchin-government-federal-cryptocurrency-trump-white-house


Better than Cash Alliance: https://www.betterthancash.org


Digital Dollar Project: https://digitaldollarproject.org


The IMF’s Tobias Adrian on a Synthetic CBDC: https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2019/05/13/sp051419-stablecoins-central-bank-digital-currencies-and-cross-border-payments


The IMF’s Tobias Adrian used to be at the NY Fed Before the IMF: https://www.tobiasadrian.com/About


John’s 17 Plugs: https://linktr.ee/therealjfod

]]> <p>We talk about central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), which will enable a new level of financial surveillance and social control. And we’re joined by John F O’Donnell, a guy with horrible karaoke etiquette. We promise we&#39;re not a con op lim hang !!! Photo: Jerome Powell</p><p>-</p><p>-</p><p>Kitty History: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-Lvv1f5Qu4" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-Lvv1f5Qu4</a></p><p><br></p><p>Guaranteed Income Pilot Program Act of 2023: <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5776?r=42&s=1#:~:text=Introduced%20in%20House%20(09%2F27%2F2023)&text=This%20bill%20directs%20the%20Department,the%20ages%20of%2018%2D65." rel="nofollow">https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5776?s=1&amp;r=42#:~:text=Introduced%20in%20House%20(09%2F27%2F2023)&amp;text=This%20bill%20directs%20the%20Department,the%20ages%20of%2018%2D65.</a></p><p><br></p><p>A Proposal for CBDC based UBI: <a href="https://www.institute.global/insights/tech-and-digitalisation/proposal-web3-based-universal-basic-income" rel="nofollow">https://www.institute.global/insights/tech-and-digitalisation/proposal-web3-based-universal-basic-income</a></p><p><br></p><p>IMF’s CBDC Virtual Handbook: <a href="https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/fintech/central-bank-digital-currency/virtual-handbook" rel="nofollow">https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/fintech/central-bank-digital-currency/virtual-handbook</a></p><p><br></p><p>“Greatest backdoor Wall Street bailout of all time”: <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303763804579183680751473884" rel="nofollow">https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702303763804579183680751473884</a></p><p><br></p><p>Digital Currency vs. Existing Electronic Currency: <a href="https://www.nttdatapay.com/blog/types-of-digital-currency/#:~:text=What%20distinguishes%20digital%20currency%20from,those%20connected%20to%20the%20Internet." rel="nofollow">https://www.nttdatapay.com/blog/types-of-digital-currency/#:~:text=What%20distinguishes%20digital%20currency%20from,those%20connected%20to%20the%20Internet.</a></p><p><br></p><p>CBDC vs. Crypto: <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/11/cbdcs-how-different-cryptocurrency-stablecoin/#:~:text=The%20main%20difference%20between%20CBDCs,data%20protection%20and%20online%20privacy." rel="nofollow">https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/11/cbdcs-how-different-cryptocurrency-stablecoin/#:~:text=The%20main%20difference%20between%20CBDCs,data%20protection%20and%20online%20privacy.</a></p><p><br></p><p>The Federal Reserve Dissing Crypto: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SxNyL3YFaM" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SxNyL3YFaM</a></p><p>IMF Dissing Crypto: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4NpCf5Phj0" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4NpCf5Phj0</a></p><p>BIS Dissing Crypto: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mvSsM1uqGo" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mvSsM1uqGo</a></p><p><br></p><p>The benefits of a cashless society: <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/benefits-cashless-society-mobile-payments/" rel="nofollow">https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/benefits-cashless-society-mobile-payments/</a></p><p><br></p><p>Atlantic Council CBDC Tracker: <a href="https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/cbdctracker/" rel="nofollow">https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/cbdctracker/</a></p><p><br></p><p>Atlantic Council Donors: <a href="https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/report/2022-annual-report/" rel="nofollow">https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/in-depth-research-reports/report/2022-annual-report/</a></p><p><br></p><p>IMF Working Hard on Global CBDC Platform Concept, Georgieva Says: <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-06-19/imf-working-hard-on-global-cbdc-platform-concept-georgieva-says?embedded-checkout=true" rel="nofollow">https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-06-19/imf-working-hard-on-global-cbdc-platform-concept-georgieva-says?embedded-checkout=true</a></p><p><br></p><p>BIS Survey on CBDCs: <a href="https://www.bis.org/publ/bppdf/bispap136.pdf" rel="nofollow">https://www.bis.org/publ/bppdf/bispap136.pdf</a></p><p><br></p><p>BIS Explained: <a href="https://www.bis.org/about/index.htm" rel="nofollow">https://www.bis.org/about/index.htm</a></p><p><br></p><p>BIS Livestream, “Central bank digital currencies, digital payments, and the future of money”: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVD1ZFPzcbg" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVD1ZFPzcbg</a></p><p><br></p><p>Biden Executive Order on CBDCs: <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/03/09/executive-order-on-ensuring-responsible-development-of-digital-assets/" rel="nofollow">https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/03/09/executive-order-on-ensuring-responsible-development-of-digital-assets/</a></p><p><br></p><p>Statement from Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen on the Release of Reports on Digital Assets: <a href="https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0956" rel="nofollow">https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0956</a></p><p><br></p><p>US Policy Objectives for a CBDC System: <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/09-2022-Technical-Evaluation-US-CBDC-System.pdf" rel="nofollow">https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/09-2022-Technical-Evaluation-US-CBDC-System.pdf</a></p><p><br></p><p>The IMF on Nigeria’s CBDC: <a href="https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2021/11/15/na111621-five-observations-on-nigerias-central-bank-digital-currency" rel="nofollow">https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2021/11/15/na111621-five-observations-on-nigerias-central-bank-digital-currency</a></p><p><br></p><p>U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) announces “Catalyst: Inclusive Cashless Payment Partnership” for India: <a href="https://2012-2017.usaid.gov/india/press-releases/oct-14-2016-usaid-launches-catalyst-drive-cashless-payments-india" rel="nofollow">https://2012-2017.usaid.gov/india/press-releases/oct-14-2016-usaid-launches-catalyst-drive-cashless-payments-india</a></p><p><br></p><p>Indian PM Modi Announces Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 to be Pulled Out of Circulation immediately: <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/rs-500-and-rs-1000-notes-pulled-out-of-circulation-immediately-pm-narendra-modi/articleshow/55315473.cms" rel="nofollow">https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/rs-500-and-rs-1000-notes-pulled-out-of-circulation-immediately-pm-narendra-modi/articleshow/55315473.cms</a></p><p><br></p><p>The Federal Reserve on Programmable CBDC: <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/publications/files/money-and-payments-20220120.pdf" rel="nofollow">https://www.federalreserve.gov/publications/files/money-and-payments-20220120.pdf</a></p><p><br></p><p>JP Morgan on Programmable Money: <a href="https://www.jpmorgan.com/onyx/programmable-payments-purpose-bound-money" rel="nofollow">https://www.jpmorgan.com/onyx/programmable-payments-purpose-bound-money</a></p><p><br></p><p>Bank of England calls on ministers to decide whether a CBDC should be programmable: <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2021/06/21/bank-england-tells-ministers-intervene-digital-currency-programming/#:~:text=Bank%20of%20England%20tells%20ministers%20to%20intervene%20on%20digital%20currency%20'programming',-Digital%20cash%20could&text=The%20Bank%20of%20England%20has,is%20spent%20by%20the%20recipient." rel="nofollow">https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2021/06/21/bank-england-tells-ministers-intervene-digital-currency-programming/#:~:text=Bank%20of%20England%20tells%20ministers%20to%20intervene%20on%20digital%20currency%20&#39;programming&#39;,-Digital%20cash%20could&amp;text=The%20Bank%20of%20England%20has,is%20spent%20by%20the%20recipient.</a></p><p><br></p><p>Eswar Prasad on the “Future of Money” at the WEF: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyANVmHJB3c" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gyANVmHJB3c</a></p><p><br></p><p>Factchecking the Eswar Prasad Quote: <a href="https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-world-economic-forum-cashless-society-false-cbdc-592718364311" rel="nofollow">https://apnews.com/article/fact-check-world-economic-forum-cashless-society-false-cbdc-592718364311</a></p><p><br></p><p>Ron DeSantis on CBDC and “Woke Banking”: <a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?532981-1%2Fgovernor-ron-desantis-campaigns-hampton-nh=" rel="nofollow">https://www.c-span.org/video/?532981-1/governor-ron-desantis-campaigns-hampton-nh</a></p><p><br></p><p>Republican Lawmakers Introduce Legislation to Ban a CBDC in the U.S.: <a href="https://www.coindesk.com/policy/2024/02/27/republican-lawmakers-introduce-legislation-to-ban-a-cbdc-in-the-us-again/" rel="nofollow">https://www.coindesk.com/policy/2024/02/27/republican-lawmakers-introduce-legislation-to-ban-a-cbdc-in-the-us-again/</a></p><p><br></p><p>Trump Campaign Vows to Block CBDC: <a href="https://thehill.com/business/4416139-trump-vows-to-block-creation-of-digital-dollar/" rel="nofollow">https://thehill.com/business/4416139-trump-vows-to-block-creation-of-digital-dollar/</a></p><p><br></p><p>Trump Admin Floats Idea of “USDC,” US Digital Currency: <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/17/22888225/jared-kushner-us-treasury-mnuchin-government-federal-cryptocurrency-trump-white-house" rel="nofollow">https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/17/22888225/jared-kushner-us-treasury-mnuchin-government-federal-cryptocurrency-trump-white-house</a></p><p><br></p><p>Better than Cash Alliance: <a href="https://www.betterthancash.org" rel="nofollow">https://www.betterthancash.org</a></p><p><br></p><p>Digital Dollar Project: <a href="https://digitaldollarproject.org" rel="nofollow">https://digitaldollarproject.org</a></p><p><br></p><p>The IMF’s Tobias Adrian on a Synthetic CBDC: <a href="https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2019/05/13/sp051419-stablecoins-central-bank-digital-currencies-and-cross-border-payments" rel="nofollow">https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2019/05/13/sp051419-stablecoins-central-bank-digital-currencies-and-cross-border-payments</a></p><p><br></p><p>The IMF’s Tobias Adrian used to be at the NY Fed Before the IMF: <a href="https://www.tobiasadrian.com/About" rel="nofollow">https://www.tobiasadrian.com/About</a></p><p><br></p><p>John’s 17 Plugs: <a href="https://linktr.ee/therealjfod" rel="nofollow">https://linktr.ee/therealjfod</a></p> 28edf310-b036-41ad-9867-67e4fccf5ae3 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 23 Apr 2024 09:08:00 +0000 4000 yes full Lavender & Just Walk Out Shopping Lavender & Just Walk Out Shopping 9 2 Cargo Cult We talk about Israel’s automated kill lists generated by an “AI” assassination machine named Lavender and Amazon’s automated checkout experience called “Just Walk Out.”

]]> <p>We talk about Israel’s automated kill lists generated by an “AI” assassination machine named Lavender and Amazon’s automated checkout experience called “Just Walk Out.”</p> 14a52976-4041-49e4-8478-4c3a52ddd9e5 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 16 Apr 2024 09:08:00 +0000 4578 yes full Robodoggy Style Robodoggy Style 8 2 Cargo Cult Talking about Truth Social and killer robots.

]]> <p>Talking about Truth Social and killer robots.</p> 8f4c90c7-f876-45e8-8bb8-1b2b67c41e51 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 02 Apr 2024 09:08:00 +0000 4887 yes full Yer Grounded Yer Grounded 7 2 Cargo Cult Boeing has certainly helped kill people in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. But did it also kill a Southern funcle? Fasten your seatbelt, because this Boeing story has it all. Plane crashes, union busting, offshoring, whistleblowers, and a mysterious parking lot death. We also talk about the Justice Department’s new lawsuit against Apple for monopolizing smartphone markets. Btw rejected titles for this episode include No Plane No Gain, Error Plane Mode, Airline Fractures, Plane in the Neck, and Boeing Pains.

]]> <p>Boeing has certainly helped kill people in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. But did it also kill a Southern funcle? Fasten your seatbelt, because this Boeing story has it all. Plane crashes, union busting, offshoring, whistleblowers, and a mysterious parking lot death. We also talk about the Justice Department’s new lawsuit against Apple for monopolizing smartphone markets. Btw rejected titles for this episode include No Plane No Gain, Error Plane Mode, Airline Fractures, Plane in the Neck, and Boeing Pains.</p> b78b0c9b-ce7a-4b94-a448-6480d021ce6f https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 26 Mar 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3568 yes full TikTok Censorship, Peter Thiel, Facial Surveillance, Oh My (ft. Pat Burtscher) TikTok Censorship, Peter Thiel, Facial Surveillance, Oh My (ft. Pat Burtscher) 6 2 Cargo Cult Here we discuss the TikTok ban and Clearview AI, a US company with a database of more than 40 billion facial images from the public internet. We also listen to big tech kingmaker Peter Thiel explain why artificial intelligence and facial recognition are "kind of communist." And we're joined by Pat Burtscher (https://www.instagram.com/patburtscher/), the nation's foremost cabbage diet expert. Photo: Hoan Ton-That

For nerds who like to sign petitions: https://www.banfacialrecognition.com/

]]> <p>Here we discuss the TikTok ban and Clearview AI, a US company with a database of more than 40 billion facial images from the public internet. We also listen to big tech kingmaker Peter Thiel explain why artificial intelligence and facial recognition are &#34;kind of communist.&#34; And we&#39;re joined by Pat Burtscher (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/patburtscher/" rel="nofollow">https://www.instagram.com/patburtscher/</a>), the nation&#39;s foremost cabbage diet expert. Photo: Hoan Ton-That</p><p>For nerds who like to sign petitions: <a href="https://www.banfacialrecognition.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.banfacialrecognition.com/</a></p> f47ef3e1-252d-4c40-a9e1-84cbce46e143 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 19 Mar 2024 09:08:00 +0000 3824 yes full Feddit Feddit 5 2 Cargo Cult We explore Reddit’s journey from online community to data business. We also cover NYT suing OpenAI for copyright infringement and Google laying off a group of striking contractors. RIP Aaron Swartz. Photo: Alexis Ohanian and Steve Huffman

]]> <p>We explore Reddit’s journey from online community to data business. We also cover NYT suing OpenAI for copyright infringement and Google laying off a group of striking contractors. RIP Aaron Swartz. Photo: Alexis Ohanian and Steve Huffman</p> 813a7aa8-888a-412c-a63c-67ee4c5e5193 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Fri, 08 Mar 2024 10:08:00 +0000 5437 yes full Let Tim Cook Let Tim Cook 4 2 Cargo Cult They say the next dystopian surveillance technology will be launched by a gay CEO ... Really makes you feel like part of history. Photo: Tim Cook

]]> <p>They say the next dystopian surveillance technology will be launched by a gay CEO ... Really makes you feel like part of history. Photo: Tim Cook</p> abdbfe76-d95d-4cc7-9d9c-3a5533866ded https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:08:00 +0000 3113 yes full Transhuman Fat (Neuralink P2) Transhuman Fat (Neuralink P2) 3 2 Cargo Cult In Part 2 of this series on Neuralink and the brain-computer interface (BCI), we discuss the current human trials for the N1 implant, FDA commissioner Robert Califf, and key figures in the movement of transhumanism such as Julian Huxley (President of the British Eugenics Society), Ray Kurzweil (Director of Engineering at Google), and Zoltan Istvan (Bus Driver). Sorryyyyyyyy this is late. This was recorded on Feb 4th but we couldn't edit it until now. Naomi was on tour doing comedy and Michele had to dance in the Super Bowl. Photo: Ray Kurzweil

]]> <p>In Part 2 of this series on Neuralink and the brain-computer interface (BCI), we discuss the current human trials for the N1 implant, FDA commissioner Robert Califf, and key figures in the movement of transhumanism such as Julian Huxley (President of the British Eugenics Society), Ray Kurzweil (Director of Engineering at Google), and Zoltan Istvan (Bus Driver). Sorryyyyyyyy this is late. This was recorded on Feb 4th but we couldn&#39;t edit it until now. Naomi was on tour doing comedy and Michele had to dance in the Super Bowl. Photo: Ray Kurzweil</p> a728ddf3-1778-4c75-b844-d06bceebd6c8 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Thu, 22 Feb 2024 10:08:00 +0000 6621 yes full Brain Chip Drip (Neuralink P1) Brain Chip Drip (Neuralink P1) 2 2 Cargo Cult Founded in 2016, Neuralink has developed a device that can implant ultra-thin threads inside the brain. The threads connect to a custom-designed chip with electrodes that can read data from groups of neurons. It’s a yarmulke homie no cap. In Part 1 of this series on Neuralink and the brain-computer interface (BCI), we explore the cruel and unusual monkey torture that built the company and Elon Musk’s plan for “human/AI symbiosis.” We recorded this ep before Daddy Musk’s Monday announcement that the first human received a Neuralink implant.

]]> <p>Founded in 2016, Neuralink has developed a device that can implant ultra-thin threads inside the brain. The threads connect to a custom-designed chip with electrodes that can read data from groups of neurons. It’s a yarmulke homie no cap. In Part 1 of this series on Neuralink and the brain-computer interface (BCI), we explore the cruel and unusual monkey torture that built the company and Elon Musk’s plan for “human/AI symbiosis.” We recorded this ep before Daddy Musk’s Monday announcement that the first human received a Neuralink implant.</p> 6fa395f1-230b-418b-b1cf-0d9c71ccb600 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Thu, 01 Feb 2024 10:08:00 +0000 4408 yes full We're Back We're Back 1 2 Cargo Cult Fortune Tellers and Cameos are in. Sam Altman and Tom's Toothpaste are out. Welcome to Season 2. Send your burning questions to cargocultpod@gmail.com. Photo: Sam Altman

]]> <p>Fortune Tellers and Cameos are in. Sam Altman and Tom&#39;s Toothpaste are out. Welcome to Season 2. Send your burning questions to cargocultpod@gmail.com. Photo: Sam Altman</p> 392ebdbf-4fc3-4394-861e-2bbdb0a023df https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Thu, 25 Jan 2024 10:08:00 +0000 4564 yes full Bot Save the Queen Bot Save the Queen 15 1 Cargo Cult This one is about having feelings for "AI." We look into Replika, the company whose chatbot was in the news because it encouraged a 19-year-old to become an assassin. Then we learn about InflectionAI, the second-best-funded generative AI startup (behind OpenAI) whose owners want to create "personal AI for everyone."


]]> <p>This one is about having feelings for &#34;AI.&#34; We look into Replika, the company whose chatbot was in the news because it encouraged a 19-year-old to become an assassin. Then we learn about InflectionAI, the second-best-funded generative AI startup (behind OpenAI) whose owners want to create &#34;personal AI for everyone.&#34;</p><h3><br></h3> bf32e05b-9c1f-4ad1-b512-a2f193dec101 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 18 Jul 2023 12:08:00 +0000 3791 yes full Dim Sun Rising & Pizza Bot Collapse Dim Sun Rising & Pizza Bot Collapse 14 1 Cargo Cult We debate the viability of solar geoengineering and learn about the Drapers, a "venture capital family" with a pretty racist and eugenicist history. Then, we try to figure out how a Silicon Valley-based robot pizza company called Zume failed to turn a profit.

]]> <p>We debate the viability of solar geoengineering and learn about the Drapers, a &#34;venture capital family&#34; with a pretty racist and eugenicist history. Then, we try to figure out how a Silicon Valley-based robot pizza company called Zume failed to turn a profit.</p> 2287ab44-63c8-465c-8b16-750fdd8db4be https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 11 Jul 2023 12:08:00 +0000 4021 no full Crystal Clear with Palantir (In-Q-Tel P3) Crystal Clear with Palantir (In-Q-Tel P3) 13 1 Cargo Cult On this 4th of July, it's time to meet Palantir, a powerful and Patriotic software company that helps Western countries derive insights from their data and whose first client was the CIA. In this episode, we disclose the company's underreported origins, make fun of the eccentricities of its bipartisan founders, and cover its controversial work with the US military, cops, border patrol, and more. We discover some Lord of the Rings lore.

]]> <p>On this 4th of July, it&#39;s time to meet Palantir, a powerful and Patriotic software company that helps Western countries derive insights from their data and whose first client was the CIA. In this episode, we disclose the company&#39;s underreported origins, make fun of the eccentricities of its bipartisan founders, and cover its controversial work with the US military, cops, border patrol, and more. We discover some Lord of the Rings lore.</p> 7520cdbb-1500-4c18-a4d4-a76dfdde0615 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 04 Jul 2023 12:08:00 +0000 3352 no full Dating App Crap Dating App Crap 12 1 Cargo Cult We consider how the gamification of love affects our sanity and the shape online dating might take in the future. We also investigate how Match Group (parent company of Tinder, Hinge, OKCupid, and more) dominates the dating app industry and discover a new conservative-only dating app funded in part by Peter Thiel. Then we investigate the bizarre and untimely death of Peter Thiel's side piece. This episode also includes a brief and just okay Jordan Peterson's impression.



More information on the Eliminating Abusive and Rampant Neglect of Interactive Technologies (EARN IT) Act:

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2020/01/congress-must-stop-graham-blumenthal-anti-security-bill

]]> <p>We consider how the gamification of love affects our sanity and the shape online dating might take in the future. We also investigate how Match Group (parent company of Tinder, Hinge, OKCupid, and more) dominates the dating app industry and discover a new conservative-only dating app funded in part by Peter Thiel. Then we investigate the bizarre and untimely death of Peter Thiel&#39;s side piece. This episode also includes a brief and just okay Jordan Peterson&#39;s impression.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>More information on the Eliminating Abusive and Rampant Neglect of Interactive Technologies (EARN IT) Act:</p><p><a href="https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2020/01/congress-must-stop-graham-blumenthal-anti-security-bill" rel="nofollow">https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2020/01/congress-must-stop-graham-blumenthal-anti-security-bill</a></p> fffab2b5-3cb5-41b4-a593-a7cda41df843 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 27 Jun 2023 12:08:00 +0000 4038 yes full Netflix Loses its Chill Netflix Loses its Chill 11 1 Cargo Cult Netflix is raising prices, cracking down on password sharing, and adding an ad tier. Here we cover this sea of changes at the company, discuss why it's a target of the writers' strike, and investigate its founders, Marc Bernays Randolph and Reed Hoffman. How to support the WGA writers: https://www.wgacontract2023.org/take-action/stand-with-writers

]]> <p>Netflix is raising prices, cracking down on password sharing, and adding an ad tier. Here we cover this sea of changes at the company, discuss why it&#39;s a target of the writers&#39; strike, and investigate its founders, Marc Bernays Randolph and Reed Hoffman. How to support the WGA writers: <a href="https://www.wgacontract2023.org/take-action/stand-with-writers" rel="nofollow">https://www.wgacontract2023.org/take-action/stand-with-writers</a></p> 294749a1-5d34-447e-b9f0-6e8a004b0c4b https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:08:00 +0000 4306 yes full Google & The CIA (In-Q-Tel P2) Google & The CIA (In-Q-Tel P2) 10 1 Cargo Cult We track Google's journey from the Stanford University dorms to Davos. We also cover a few poignant flashpoints in the relationship between Google and the CIA, like trying to help overthrow the Syrian government in the 2010s and creating Intellipedia (Wikipedia for spooks). Take a shot every time Michele says “apparatus.”

]]> <p>We track Google&#39;s journey from the Stanford University dorms to Davos. We also cover a few poignant flashpoints in the relationship between Google and the CIA, like trying to help overthrow the Syrian government in the 2010s and creating Intellipedia (Wikipedia for spooks). Take a shot every time Michele says “apparatus.”</p> 0f7c7409-ae63-41cd-9e8b-e74fb65f9a1a https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 13 Jun 2023 12:08:00 +0000 3237 no full CIA's Venture Capital Arm (In-Q-Tel P1) CIA's Venture Capital Arm (In-Q-Tel P1) 9 1 Cargo Cult In-Q-Tel is a strategic venture capital firm created in 1999 to invest in technologies that serve the mission needs of the CIA and the broader intelligence community, including the FBI, NSA, and DHS.

]]> <p>In-Q-Tel is a strategic venture capital firm created in 1999 to invest in technologies that serve the mission needs of the CIA and the broader intelligence community, including the FBI, NSA, and DHS.</p> a4742f0e-9417-4dbd-ad6f-a5d2e4cb82d3 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:08:00 +0000 2790 no full Elon Goes to Space Elon Goes to Space 8 1 Cargo Cult Did you know that SpaceX owes its life to the former head of In-Q-Tel, the CIA's venture capital arm? In this episode, we explore Elon Musk's rocket ambitions and the imperialist origins of SpaceX's satellite business. We also discuss the destructive effects of SpaceX's recent 4/20 Starship rocket launch in Southern Texas.


]]> <p>Did you know that SpaceX owes its life to the former head of In-Q-Tel, the CIA&#39;s venture capital arm? In this episode, we explore Elon Musk&#39;s rocket ambitions and the imperialist origins of SpaceX&#39;s satellite business. We also discuss the destructive effects of SpaceX&#39;s recent 4/20 Starship rocket launch in Southern Texas.</p><h3><br></h3> 45224c41-df95-486c-b6a5-741d4993ec9a https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Sat, 22 Apr 2023 12:08:00 +0000 4422 yes full Larry Ellison's Oracle: Biggest Tech Company You've Never Heard Of Larry Ellison's Oracle: Biggest Tech Company You've Never Heard Of 7 1 Cargo Cult Oracle is the world's second-largest software company by revenue (behind Microsoft). We explain Oracle's role as the database of all databases and explore the company's relationship with the U.S. government. We also discuss Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison's recent run-in with the Hawaiian police. Then, we mourn the loss of Cash App founder Bob Lee and the equally tragic loss of Naomi's Twitter Blue Check.

]]> <p>Oracle is the world&#39;s second-largest software company by revenue (behind Microsoft). We explain Oracle&#39;s role as the database of all databases and explore the company&#39;s relationship with the U.S. government. We also discuss Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison&#39;s recent run-in with the Hawaiian police. Then, we mourn the loss of Cash App founder Bob Lee and the equally tragic loss of Naomi&#39;s Twitter Blue Check.</p> d08867cc-e09e-4d69-93dd-c1d162faa751 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Sat, 01 Apr 2023 12:08:00 +0000 2172 yes full Robots for Grandma & Apple's New Headset Robots for Grandma & Apple's New Headset 6 1 Cargo Cult We chat about how robots are infiltrating the workforce in Japan, stealing jobs from baristas and caregivers alike. Then, we dive into Apple's recently announced wearable AR/VR headset (it looks like a pair of ski goggles) and explore the privacy implications of this new tech.

]]> <p>We chat about how robots are infiltrating the workforce in Japan, stealing jobs from baristas and caregivers alike. Then, we dive into Apple&#39;s recently announced wearable AR/VR headset (it looks like a pair of ski goggles) and explore the privacy implications of this new tech.</p> bbbb03a7-b4d4-4c2a-aa84-d243dfdc437a https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Sat, 18 Mar 2023 12:08:00 +0000 3994 no full ChatGPT's Founding Fathers ChatGPT's Founding Fathers 5 1 Cargo Cult Get to know all the chatbots, from Joseph Weizenbaum's 60s-era "therapist bot" named Eliza to today's infamous ChatGPT by OpenAI. And you might as well since one will probably be your boss soon.

]]> <p>Get to know all the chatbots, from Joseph Weizenbaum&#39;s 60s-era &#34;therapist bot&#34; named Eliza to today&#39;s infamous ChatGPT by OpenAI. And you might as well since one will probably be your boss soon.</p> b3ac601e-2dcc-43eb-b491-45cb96787114 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Sat, 04 Mar 2023 13:08:00 +0000 3737 no full Digital Islands, DARPA Insects, & E-Girl Psy-Ops Digital Islands, DARPA Insects, & E-Girl Psy-Ops 4 1 Cargo Cult A nation uploads itself to the Metaverse. The U.S. military develops stupid robots and terrifying insects. We discuss all this and react to TikTok e-girls in face-altering filters, telling Zoomers to "man up" and join the army.


]]> <p>A nation uploads itself to the Metaverse. The U.S. military develops stupid robots and terrifying insects. We discuss all this and react to TikTok e-girls in face-altering filters, telling Zoomers to &#34;man up&#34; and join the army.</p><h3><br></h3> 478de51a-4bff-4be3-ad18-210e9c4a98eb https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Sat, 18 Feb 2023 13:08:00 +0000 2695 no full Saudi Smart Cities (NEOM P2) Saudi Smart Cities (NEOM P2) 3 1 Cargo Cult 3 We can't stop talking about "The Line," the coming tech-centric smart city technically located on Saudi Arabian land but not governed by KSA law. In this episode, we look at some of The Line's weirdest features, including the unusual way younger residents will commute to school, and explain why Neom is more of an international capitalist project than a Saudi one.

]]> <p>We can&#39;t stop talking about &#34;The Line,&#34; the coming tech-centric smart city technically located on Saudi Arabian land but not governed by KSA law. In this episode, we look at some of The Line&#39;s weirdest features, including the unusual way younger residents will commute to school, and explain why Neom is more of an international capitalist project than a Saudi one.</p> 4d598a46-defa-4b73-bbe7-30eb12e95a74 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Sat, 04 Feb 2023 13:08:00 +0000 1370 yes full Line in the Sand (NEOM P1) Line in the Sand (NEOM P1) 2 1 Cargo Cult Neom is a smart "gigacity" in Saudi Arabia that puts all other smart cities to shame. Here we look into designs for "The Line," one of Neom's cities that project spokespeople are heralding as the "future of urban living." Complain at cargocultpod@gmail.com.

]]> <p>Neom is a smart &#34;gigacity&#34; in Saudi Arabia that puts all other smart cities to shame. Here we look into designs for &#34;The Line,&#34; one of Neom&#39;s cities that project spokespeople are heralding as the &#34;future of urban living.&#34; <span>Complain at cargocultpod@gmail.com.</span></p> 72a2a160-13e6-4be6-be36-565cee236eaf https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Sat, 21 Jan 2023 13:08:00 +0000 2325 no full Rise of Tiktok & eBay Blackmail Rise of Tiktok & eBay Blackmail 1 1 Cargo Cult We ask the burning question of our time: "Is TikTok sus?" Then, we learn how eBay executives stalked and blackmailed an elderly indie journalism power couple. This episode also includes ChatGPT's vision of a debate between a 9/11 conspiracy theorist and a "normal person." Complain at cargocultpod@gmail.com.

]]> <p>We ask the burning question of our time: &#34;Is TikTok sus?&#34; Then, we learn how eBay executives stalked and blackmailed an elderly indie journalism power couple. This episode also includes ChatGPT&#39;s vision of a debate between a 9/11 conspiracy theorist and a &#34;normal person.&#34; <span>Complain at cargocultpod@gmail.com.</span></p> da98919e-08e4-448d-9bf5-23ac904c4dd0 https://linktr.ee/cargocultpod Sat, 07 Jan 2023 13:08:00 +0000 2709 yes