In a recent episode of the No Agenda Show, co-host Adam Curry opened with a heartfelt tribute to the late John C. Dvorak, reflecting on the profound influence Dvorak had on technology journalism. Curry, calling in from a San Francisco hotel room the day after Dvorak's private memorial, shared memories of the service attended by roughly 70 people, including friends who traveled from as far as Tokyo and the Netherlands. Curry emphasized Dvorak's unique approach to product reviews, noting, "He wrote about how these products sucked because he felt they could be better. That really was a big part of his role in the world."
The episode, titled "En Banc," also delivered the show's signature media deconstruction, examining a D.C. Circuit Appeals Court ruling that blocked construction of President Trump's $400 million White House ballroom. The hosts compared coverage across Fox, ABC, and CBS, highlighting the court's decision that "whether or not a massive ballroom should be constructed is for Congress to decide." The segment underscored the ongoing judicial and political tensions surrounding the project.
Other stories tackled included a $567 million judgment against Meta over child safety on Facebook and Instagram, the escalating WNBA controversy after Clay Travis offered $10 million for a game between the Las Vegas Aces and a high school boys' team, and Michigan candidate Abdul El-Sayed's Medicaid comments amid reports on his wife's psychiatric practice. The hosts also delved into the strange saga of British academic Jason Arday, whose book "Great and Unfortunate Things" was released amid allegations of fabricated credentials, and highlighted Staten Island activist Scott LoBaido, who chartered a banner plane over New York City targeting Zohran Mamdani from his hospital bed after open-heart surgery.
Dvorak's legacy as a pioneering tech journalist was a recurring theme. Known for his sharp critiques and willingness to challenge industry narratives, Dvorak's work inspired many in the field. Curry's reflections offered listeners a personal glimpse into the man behind the bylines, emphasizing his commitment to honesty and improvement in technology.
The episode concluded with meetup reports from ten cities, showcasing the show's global community. No Agenda, a listener-supported podcast, continues to provide an independent, skeptical take on media and politics, honoring Dvorak's memory while carrying forward his spirit of inquiry.
