Podcast Summary: Armstrong & Getty On Demand – "Could We Just Look At The Daisies!?"
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Host/Authors: Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty
Platform: iHeartPodcasts
Introduction
In the episode titled "Could We Just Look At The Daisies!?", hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty discuss a range of contemporary issues, primarily focusing on controversies surrounding the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), diversity initiatives within governmental agencies, and critiques of modern Hollywood productions. The conversation is marked by a critical tone towards current administrative policies and cultural trends.
FAA and Department of Transportation Criticism
Secretary Pete Buttigieg's Leadership
The episode opens with Joe Getty expressing strong disapproval of Secretary Pete Buttigieg's management of the Department of Transportation (DOT).
Joe Getty (00:23): "Do you know how badly everything's run since he's run this Department of Transportation? He's a disaster."
Getty criticizes Buttigieg's tenure, alleging mismanagement and negative impacts, particularly related to diversity initiatives.
FAA Staffing and Air Traffic Control Issues
Armstrong and Getty delve into recent FAA mishaps, highlighting a significant reduction in air traffic controllers.
Jack Armstrong (03:31): "There are supposed to be one dealing with helicopters, one with planes. But for some reason the supervisor let somebody go home early."
They discuss how reduced staffing levels might have contributed to recent aviation incidents, emphasizing the potential dangers of under-resourced air traffic control.
Analysis of Recent Helicopter Crash
Expert Insights and Pilot Errors
A former Blackhawk pilot provides an analysis of a recent helicopter crash, suggesting that pilot error and policy lapses were primary factors.
Former Blackhawk Pilot (02:01): "They were at the wrong height. So that's a pilot error. The first would be a policy error."
Key points include inadequate crew numbers, miscommunication with air traffic control, and insufficient visibility protocols in crowded airspace.
Impact of Diversity Policies on FAA Operations
The discussion pivots to how diversity initiatives within the FAA may have impacted hiring practices, potentially compromising operational efficiency.
Jack Armstrong (07:49): "It is still patently insane."
Armstrong and Getty argue that the FAA's shift towards diversity over merit has led to a decline in qualified hires, referencing a lawsuit filed by over 3,000 rejected applicants.
Diversity vs. Merit in Government Hiring
Historical Context and Policy Changes
Armstrong outlines the evolution of FAA hiring practices, noting that former FAA Administrator Michael Huerta introduced behavioral questionnaires to promote diversity.
Jack Armstrong (08:03): "The BQ, that questionnaire was purportedly discontinued in 2018... but a 2019 class action lawsuit... claims it still exists."
He contends that these changes have diluted the effectiveness of hiring standards, favoring diversity metrics over qualifications.
Critique of Behavioral Questionnaires
The hosts criticize the behavioral questionnaires (BQ) as ineffective and counterproductive for selecting competent air traffic controllers.
Guest (08:39): "Do you have the training to be an air traffic controller? Are you sober?"
They argue that such questionnaires prioritize personal traits over professional qualifications, undermining the FAA's operational integrity.
Hollywood's "Amelia Perez" – A Case Study in Oscar-Bait
Overview of the Controversial Film
Armstrong and Getty shift focus to the Hollywood film "Amelia Perez," critiquing its premise and Oscar nominations.
Guest (18:16): "It's really entertaining... the most likely movie to win best picture."
They mock the film's plot, which centers on a transgender cartel boss, and question its artistic merit despite numerous Oscar nods.
Satirical Take on Industry Practices
The hosts employ satire to highlight perceived flaws in Hollywood's award nomination processes, suggesting that political correctness drives cinematic choices over quality.
Jack Armstrong (19:18): "They stopped prioritizing CTI graduates... it's still patently insane."
Technology and AI Advancements
Smartphone AI Enhancements
The conversation briefly touches on recent AI updates in smartphones, such as improved text prediction and camera functionalities.
Guest (15:35): "Press the camera button and then it will tell you what kind of dog that is."
They discuss the practicality and potential privacy concerns of AI-driven identification features.
Immigration Policies and Guantanamo Facility Proposal
President's Plan for Migrant Detention
Armstrong and Getty critique the president's initiative to create a migrant facility at Guantanamo Bay, viewing it as a solution for detaining high-priority criminal aliens.
Jack Armstrong (33:11): "Shut up, you commie."
They argue that this approach reflects a lack of empathy and effective policy-making, expressing skepticism about its implementation and cost-effectiveness.
Economic Implications of Deportation Methods
The hosts reference a tweet by Ian Bremmer highlighting the exorbitant costs of military deportation flights compared to commercial ones.
Guest (34:15): "The problem would be I don't think you can take known child rapists and put them on a United flight with a ticket."
They emphasize the inefficiency and ethical concerns surrounding the proposed deportation methods.
Conclusion
Throughout the episode, Armstrong and Getty maintain a critical stance on governmental and cultural developments, particularly focusing on the FAA's operational challenges and the perceived decline in merit-based hiring due to diversity initiatives. Additionally, they offer a satirical critique of Hollywood's award-driven filmmaking, using "Amelia Perez" as a primary example. The hosts conclude by reinforcing their skepticism towards current immigration policies and technological advancements that they believe compromise societal standards and operational integrity.
Notable Quotes:
- Joe Getty (00:23): "Do you know how badly everything's run since he's run this Department of Transportation? He's a disaster."
- Former Blackhawk Pilot (02:01): "They were at the wrong height. So that's a pilot error. The first would be a policy error."
- Jack Armstrong (07:49): "It is still patently insane."
- Guest (08:39): "Do you have the training to be an air traffic controller? Are you sober?"
- Jack Armstrong (08:03): "The BQ, that questionnaire was purportedly discontinued in 2018... but a 2019 class action lawsuit... claims it still exists."
- Guest (18:16): "It's really entertaining... the most likely movie to win best picture."
- Jack Armstrong (33:11): "Shut up, you commie."
- Guest (34:15): "The problem would be I don't think you can take known child rapists and put them on a United flight with a ticket."
This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the key discussions and viewpoints expressed in the "Could We Just Look At The Daisies!?" episode of Armstrong & Getty On Demand. It is intended to inform those who have not listened to the episode about the main topics covered and the perspectives offered by the hosts.