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Once again, it is time for Ron and Ed to get a few things off their chests. Not since October 2024's Outstanding Olio has there been such a collection of Friday Farrago, Glorious Gallimaufry, or even Holiday Hodgepodge. Join us as we make our way through this Mishmash of Miscellany.
AI SHOW NOTES (while our editor is out)
Drug Trial Discussion
Ron shared an update on a promising cancer drug, dosterome, which showed promising results in phase 2 trials for rectal cancer, though it still needs to progress to phase 3 trials for approval. Ed inquired about any connection to AI in the drug's development, and Ron confirmed that AI may have played a role in its discovery.
iPhone Tariffs and Trade Concerns
Ed and Ron discussed Apple's potential iPhone price increase and the Trump administration's trade policies. They criticized Trump's proposed 25% tax on foreign-made iPhones and his threats against the EU. The conversation touched on the impracticality of bringing iPhone manufacturing back to the US and the negative effects of tariffs on innovation and competition. They also questioned the legality of Trump's tax proposal and expressed frustration with the overall situation.
Scott Adams and Shingles Vaccine
Ed and Ron discussed the passing of Scott Adams, creator of Dilbert, and shared personal reflections on his work and legacy. They also explored a recent medical finding linking shingles vaccination to a reduced risk of dementia, with Ron highlighting a potential connection to viral infections and Alzheimer's disease. Ed mentioned his intention to get the shingles vaccine, despite having had the disease before. The conversation concluded with technical adjustments to Ed's microphone and a reminder to listeners about contacting Ron and Ed via email and visiting their website for updates.
Political Commentary and Innovation Insights
Ed and Ron discussed Congressman Keith's post on X about voting for the House Reconciliation Bill, which Ed criticized for its spending and lack of significant reforms. They also talked about an article by Abigail Anthony on tribalism and its implications. Finally, Ed shared an interesting fact about a new product made from lab-grown T-rex leather, which is set to be launched by the end of 2025.
Rock and Roll's Resistance Impact
Ron and Ed discussed the impact of rock and roll, particularly in East Germany, where music was a tool for resistance against communism. They explored how rock and roll symbolizes American values of cooperation and individual freedom. Ed shared an example of "plusing" from AMC, which is offering 50% off movie tickets on Wednesdays to subscribers. They also briefly touched on President Trump's controversial policy regarding ships in U.S. ports, which Ron criticized for its economic repercussions.
Influential Movies and Political Views
Ed and Ron discuss influential movies based on a study using Wikipedia citations. They review the top 10 list, which includes unexpected entries like "Space Jam" and "Who Framed Roger Rabbit." The number one most influential film, according to this metric, is "Who Framed Roger Rabbit," which surprises both Ed and Ron. They discuss the reasons for its high ranking, including its groundbreaking special effects and iconic cameos. The conversation briefly shifts to Trump's proposal for tariffs on foreign movies and his idea to reopen Alcatraz, which Ron criticizes as impractical and expensive.
Pope Leo's Potential Economic Views
Ron and Ed discussed the Pope's recent visit to Chicago, noting his attendance at a World Series game in 2005. They reflected on the Pope's background and his choice of the name "Leo the 14th," which Ed explained was a reference to Leo the 13th, who authored the encyclical "Rerum Novarum" that founded Catholic social teaching. Ed predicted that Pope Leo the 14th would be more open to economic ideas than Pope Francis, given his American upbringing and dual citizenship in Peru. They expressed interest in Father Sirico's perspective on the new Pope.
AI's Role in Job Creation
Ed and Ron discussed a recent article by Scott Linscomb in The Dispatch titled "What if AI means more jobs? Not fewer." The article suggests that AI is more likely to supplement existing work rather than replace humans entirely, with studies showing modest effects on employment and new job tasks offsetting those eliminated. They also mentioned Jim Petakookas's example of AI's impact on medical imaging at the Mayo Clinic, where radiologist numbers increased by 55% since AI's implementation. Ron noted the difficulty in teasing out cause and effect in studies of AI's impact on employment, while Ed highlighted changes in job titles and categorization over time, such as the shift from "computer programmer" to "software developer."
Newsom's Governorship Critique and Preview
Ron and Ed discussed Gavin Newsom's record as governor, highlighting his increased state budget, decimated oil industry, and unfulfilled promises on homelessness. They criticized Newsom for blaming Turlock Mayor Amy Bublack for the homelessness crisis while ignoring his own failures. The conversation touched on similar issues with Andrew Cuomo and the challenges of executive experience in politics. They also previewed an upcoming interview with Dr. Jeffrey Singer about his book "Your Body Your Choice."
Bonus Content is Available As Well
Did you know that each week after our live show, Ron and Ed take to the microphone for a bonus show? Typically, this bonus show is an extension of the live show topic (sometimes even with the same guest) and a few other pieces of news, current events, or things that have caught our attention.
Click the “FANATIC” image to learn more about pricing and member benefits.
