In this episode of “Coast To Coast AM,” hosted by Art Bell, the focus was on the complexities of the U.S. monetary system and national debt. The guest, Andrew Gause, a renowned currency historian and economist, delved into how America’s monetary policy has been historically influenced by private interests rather than elected officials. Gause discussed his views on various financial and political issues, emphasizing the indirect control of monetary policy by vested interests, a perspective he has shared in over 450 radio and TV programs.
Art Bell expresses his confusion about the economy, particularly the stock market’s performance and the rising price of gold. Gause offered his insights on these topics, suggesting that the surge in both the stock market and gold prices was due to an influx of new money, a consequence of Treasury Secretary Rubin’s maneuvers with civil service trust funds. This action, while legal, raised questions about Rubin’s fiduciary responsibility and the ethical implications of using trust funds to avoid national default.
Gause also highlighted the predominance of long-term treasury obligations in the U.S. financial system, explaining that these are the primary means by which the national debt is financed. The episode continues with a discussion on the nature of the national debt and its implications for the average American, aiming to educate listeners about the complex interplay of economics, politics, and individual financial security.
Art Bell and Andrew Gause explored the difference between the U.S. deficit and the national debt, focusing on how the government has convinced the public to establish various trust funds, such as those for social security and road maintenance. Gause highlighted that these trust funds, amounting to almost $3 trillion, are not stored as cash but are replaced with IOUs in the form of treasury bonds, indicating a substantial part of the national debt is owed to these funds.
They discussed the practical issues related to these funds, like the inability to utilize the $160 billion in the highway trust fund due to its composition of treasury bonds, not immediately available cash. This led to a broader conversation about the illusion of the national debt and various fringe suggestions to resolve it, such as minting a trillion-dollar coin, which Gause dismissed as impractical.
Gause also touched upon the concept of replacing Federal Reserve notes with United States notes to save on interest payments, a change he deemed prudent without affecting current spending programs. The focus then shifted to the electronic money supply, which at almost $5 trillion, significantly overshadows the paper money supply. Gause expressed concern about the stability of the financial system, given the vast sums of electronic money that could potentially cause an overnight disaster.
The conversation continued with an analysis of the increasing U.S. debt ceiling and its implications. Gause opined that raising the debt ceiling to five and a half trillion dollars would be an inflationary move, essentially indicating the government’s plan to print new bonds and, if necessary, for the Federal Reserve to create new money to purchase these bonds. This, he suggested, would only delay the inevitable financial reckoning, hinting at a looming economic crisis.
Art Bell and Andrew Gause continued their discussion on the U.S. financial system. Gause emphasized the impact of increasing the money supply on the value of the dollar, predicting a decrease in its value corresponding to the increase in money supply. He also expressed skepticism about the long-term effectiveness of such fiscal policies, suggesting that those responsible for these decisions might not face the consequences directly.
Gause predicted significant financial changes within the next 6 to 12 months, citing the large volume of treasury bond auctions and the government’s efforts to manage the debt. He speculated that the federal government might create additional money supply to pay off impending debts, leading to a temporary economic euphoria. This scenario, he feared, would result in a booming economy and low interest rates, potentially influencing the re-election of the current administration.
The discussion then shifted to the role of the Federal Reserve and its relationship with the presidency, particularly focusing on Alan Greenspan’s upcoming renomination. Gause suggested that Greenspan might lower interest rates to support the economy, thereby benefiting the current administration. He warned of the potential consequences for individuals with fixed return investments like bonds, as their purchasing power could be eroded.
Gause and Bell also touched upon the everyday impact of these policies, such as the increasing cost of groceries, illustrating how inflation affects ordinary people. Gause criticized the Federal Reserve for controlling the money supply, asserting that it effectively controls the country. Despite this, Bell expressed a reluctant support for the Fed, arguing that its alternative – placing monetary control in the hands of those responsible for unrestrained spending – could hasten financial collapse.
Art Bell and Andrew Gause delved into the potential consequences of the U.S. government’s fiscal policies. Gause criticized the Federal Reserve for enabling Congress to spend future generations’ money through bond issuance, leading to national debt that will be shouldered by children and grandchildren. He argued that if Congress could only issue notes instead of bonds, the resultant inflation would lead to immediate political consequences, aligning with the intentions of the founding fathers.
The conversation then shifted to the impending debt ceiling hike and the possibility of the U.S. government defaulting on its debts, a scenario both Gause and Bell considered unlikely but worth discussing. Gause theorized that in the event of a default, the U.S. would be subject to international jurisdiction, potentially being foreclosed upon by the World Trade Organization in The Hague.
Practically, Gause suggested that a default could result in the transfer of taxing authority from Congress to an international bailing-out institution like the International Monetary Fund or the World Bank. This could lead to the creation of a new currency, with U.S. dollars exchanged for World Trade units, effectively transferring fiscal control to an international organization. Such a scenario, Gause argued, would be a significant step towards global consolidation and potentially a one-world government, with a unified currency and elimination of trade borders.
Art Bell and Andrew Gause discussed the potential fallout of the United States becoming a debtor nation and facing international legal consequences. Gause painted a grim picture, suggesting that in such a scenario, the United States could face UN sanctions, lose its sovereignty, and be subject to international law. He explained that this could lead to the U.S. being bailed out by international financial institutions, resulting in the transfer of taxation power to these entities.
Gause also discussed the potential market reactions to a U.S. default. He predicted a rapid and severe devaluation of mutual fund assets and financial chaos in the markets. This would lead to a sharp decline in the value of long bonds and a dramatic increase in the price of gold. However, Gause noted that the physical gold market would likely shut down due to the collapse of the derivatives market related to gold, leading to a disconnect between the official price of gold and its actual market value.
The conversation then turned to the concept of derivatives, which Gause described as financial instruments that derive their value from the right to trade an underlying asset rather than from the asset itself. He used the example of Orange County’s financial troubles to illustrate the risks associated with derivatives, explaining how they are essentially bets on future market scenarios. Gause highlighted the complexity and high-risk nature of derivatives, suggesting they are akin to gambling.
Art Bell and Andrew Gause discussed the role of derivatives in the financial market and the strategies for individual financial protection. Gause explained that the Federal Reserve Banks’ Open Market Committee encourages the use of derivatives as a tool to obscure their financial maneuvers. He described how the Federal Reserve might use derivatives to influence market prices without directly buying or selling large quantities of bonds or gold, thus manipulating the market in a way that is difficult for the average person to understand.
Gause illustrated this with an example of a potential panic buying of gold. Normally, this would cause the price of gold to skyrocket. However, the Federal Reserve could sell gold contracts to meet the demand, stabilizing the price temporarily and buying time to adjust their position. This kind of manipulation, according to Gause, prevents sudden market changes and keeps the public unaware of underlying issues.
Discussing the precarious nature of this financial juggling, Gause expressed admiration for the Federal Reserve’s ability to maintain this balance but warned of the potential consequences if this juggling act fails. He advised the average person to protect themselves by gradually moving a portion of their wealth into tangible assets like gold and silver coins. Gause emphasized that in times of financial chaos, tangible assets become more valuable compared to stocks, bonds, and other paper investments.
Concluding the segment, Gause offered educational resources to listeners, suggesting they educate themselves and take proactive steps to safeguard their financial future. He provided information on how to obtain these resources and encouraged listeners to take action in light of the evolving economic landscape.
Art Bell and Andrew Gause discussed the complexities surrounding the introduction of new $100 bills in the U.S. and the issue of counterfeit money. Gause revealed that a large volume of paper money circulates overseas, and there have been instances where U.S. currency has been counterfeited to such a high degree that even the Federal Reserve Bank can’t distinguish the fakes from authentic notes. He referred to the notorious super notes produced in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, with East German help and printing presses sold by the U.S. to Iran during the Shah’s era.
Gause discussed the widespread circulation of U.S. hundred-dollar bills in Russia and Europe and the impact of counterfeit money flooding European markets. He speculated that there might be a plan to demonetize the old $100 bill in favor of the new one, capturing a significant amount of money without any conflict. This move, however, raises questions about inflation and the legal status of the old bills, especially if they are being counterfeited extensively.
Bell expressed his confusion and concern over the situation, reflecting a common uncertainty about the effects of introducing new currency while old notes remain in circulation. The discussion highlighted the complexities of currency management on a global scale and the potential economic implications of such monetary policies.
Gause, describing his expertise, differentiated himself from an economist by focusing on the historical aspects of the U.S. monetary system. He stressed the importance of understanding the country’s monetary history to avoid repeating past mistakes, suggesting that economists often overlook historical patterns in their analyses.
Art Bell and Andrew Gause continued their discussion about economic preparedness and the impact of financial downturns on society. Gause agreed with a listener’s suggestion that having a food supply and other usable assets is crucial, especially in the event of a severe economic downturn. He emphasized the importance of being prepared for any situation, including having a well-stocked pantry and being self-sufficient.
The conversation then shifted to health insurance and the challenges posed by preexisting conditions, illustrating the broader theme of preparedness and risk management in different aspects of life. Gause recounted an experience during a snowstorm, observing people’s desperate behavior in supermarkets, which led him to ponder the potential chaos during an economic emergency.
The discussion also touched on societal issues, such as the potential for increased violence during hard economic times, as exemplified by a news story from Honolulu involving a violent incident triggered by economic desperation.
Regarding financial investments, Gause advised listeners to diversify their portfolios and consider tangible assets like gold and silver coins. He addressed concerns about 401(k) retirement plans, emphasizing the importance of what’s inside these plans, such as stocks or bonds, and suggesting that people sell bonds and consider investing in stocks or precious metals.
Andrew Gause and Art Bell continued their discussion on investing in precious metals like gold and silver, as well as the broader economic picture. Gause suggested that both gold and silver are good investments, but he predicted that silver might outperform gold percentage-wise due to its traditional ratio to gold. He also noted the overall upward trend in commodities prices, indicating that this would be a year for commodities to rise. Gause pointed out that inflation is returning and will do so with significant impact.
When asked about when to invest in gold and what signs to look for, Gause advised looking for indicators like a dramatic rise in long bond yields, which would signal an impending downturn in interest rates. He suggested that a steady rise in gold prices, particularly if it breaks $450, would be a strong confirmation of an upward trend.
Gause also addressed a caller’s question about the seeming paradox of both the stock market and gold prices rising simultaneously. He argued that this situation indicates an unhealthy market, driven not by a healthy economy but by excess government funding and manipulation of money supply, particularly by the Treasury Secretary using pension funds to pay off debt.
A caller then brought up the topic of derivatives, challenging Gause’s characterization of them as mere financial instruments for market manipulation. Gause responded by asserting that the Federal Reserve does indeed use derivatives, particularly futures, as a part of their monetary policy strategy.
Art Bell and Andrew Gause engaged in a detailed discussion about the Federal Reserve’s use of derivatives in monetary policy. Gause insisted that the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, which executes the Open Market Committee’s trades, uses derivatives as a significant tool. He highlighted that derivatives have legitimate uses, like allowing farmers to sell their crops before they are harvested, but also acknowledged that they can be misused for speculative purposes.
A caller joined the conversation to discuss the nature of derivatives further. He expressed a view that derivatives have evolved as financial instruments, some of which are used by major investment banks for profit generation. Gause agreed that derivatives serve as a control mechanism in the financial market but maintained his stance that they are used by the Federal Reserve in monetary policy.
Another caller questioned the sustainability of the U.S. debt, wondering if the government could continue to roll it over indefinitely. Gause responded that the limit would be reached when a significant portion of the government’s income goes towards interest payments. He expressed skepticism about the government’s ability to continue managing its debt without making drastic cuts to welfare and entitlement spending.
Gause expressed his view that the U.S. Treasury Secretary has limited options left to manage the country’s financial situation. He predicted a rise in the debt ceiling and an increase in money creation, leading to steady hyperinflation over the next seven years. Gause anticipated significant price increases in everyday items and compared the situation to historical instances of hyperinflation.
The conversation then shifted to a discussion about a large gold find near Yellowstone National Park, which had been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A caller inquired about the government’s interest in the site and the amount of gold present. Gause suggested that the site could bring significant economic benefits to the region, but political pressures and international interests were complicating the situation. He speculated that if the site falls under UN control, any gold extracted would belong to the UN, not the U.S.
Another caller questioned the inevitability of an economic and social collapse, citing the resilience of other countries with worse financial conditions than the U.S. Gause acknowledged this point but emphasized the unique position of the U.S. dollar as the preferred currency for international transactions, particularly in unstable economies. He noted that this demand for dollars lends strength to the currency and allows the U.S. more leeway in managing its financial issues.
Gause discussed the idea that if foreign nations stop holding reserves in U.S. dollars, it could lead to significant economic repercussions. He expressed concern about the move towards an electronic currency system, noting that it could lead to increased control and monitoring of financial transactions.
Gause then addressed a caller’s question about tangible assets, confirming that 14 karat gold, 18 karat gold, and sterling silver are considered tangible assets but advised against gemstones due to their lack of standardization in value. Regarding a potential economic crash, Gause stated that money in bank accounts, CDs, and money market funds would be the least secure, with depositors being the last to get paid.
Another caller inquired about the safety of money market funds, and Gause reiterated that these funds are closely tied to the bond market and would likely be at risk in the event of a financial downturn. When asked about international stocks, Gause suggested that technology companies might do well, but even blue-chip industrial companies could see a loss of principal.
Gause also gave his perspective on foreign currencies, recommending staying away from weaker currencies than the dollar and favoring the Swiss Franc and German Mark. He expressed skepticism about the Japanese Yen, citing Japan’s banking crisis and their significant holdings in U.S. dollars and Treasury bonds.
Andrew Gause and Art Bell discussed the potential consequences of a U.S. debt default and the implications of the country’s status as a debtor nation. Gause emphasized that if the U.S. were to default on its debt, it could face United Nations sanctions, including trade embargoes and the seizure of funds from exported products. He pointed out that the U.S. would not receive lenient treatment from other nations and would likely face serious repercussions.
Gause also commented on the currency exchange rates, particularly the Japanese yen’s value against the U.S. dollar. He criticized the G7’s decision-making process on currency values, suggesting that it lacked transparency and enabled insider trading.
The conversation then shifted to U.S. presidential candidates’ economic policies. Gause and Bell discussed various candidates’ stances, including tax reforms and economic strategies. Gause was asked to give his opinion on which candidate might be the best for the U.S. economy and also to speculate on who might win the presidency.
A listener’s question about the future currency in the event of an American dollar collapse led to a discussion about alternative forms of currency, such as weapons, drugs, information, and electronics. Gause did not foresee a scenario akin to “Mad Max” but rather a gradual decline in the value of money, leading to a future where younger generations might find the current economic situation laughable.
Gause expressed his preference for Richard Lugar among the presidential candidates, citing Lugar’s advocacy for honest taxation. He supported the idea of shifting from taxing production to taxing consumption, criticizing the current system for penalizing workers’ income.
Regarding other candidates, Gause discussed Pat Buchanan’s protectionist policies, recognizing the need to protect domestic industries but warning against the economic isolationism Buchanan proposed. Gause also critiqued Steve Forbes’ flat tax proposal, arguing that it would still unfairly tax American workers while allowing multinational corporations to import goods tax-free. He advocated for a consumption-based tax system to encourage more production and savings and reduce consumption.
The conversation shifted to commodities and derivatives markets, with Gause advising caution for the average investor considering options or futures in gold. He recommended physical possession of gold over derivatives due to the high risk of amplified losses in the derivatives market.
Gause also addressed investing in gold within an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). He mentioned that American Eagles in gold and silver are acceptable vehicles for IRA investments.
Gause agreed with a caller’s observation that inflation often precedes economic collapse, drawing parallels between the economic situation of the Roaring Twenties and the present day. He predicted significant changes in monetary values in the U.S. within the next 12 months and noted that those with debts might benefit from inflation as they would repay loans with less valuable dollars.
A caller from Salt Lake City brought up the idea of a one-world currency, potentially in the form of a chip implanted in the body, tying it to biblical prophecies about the Antichrist. Gause responded that waiting for such a dramatic event might be too late and suggested that the transition to a cashless society, promoted as a convenience, is already underway.
Gause also addressed a listener’s concern about the risks associated with owning Krugerrands and Maple Leafs, two types of gold bullion coins. He explained the legal risks, including the requirement to report sales to the Treasury and the potential for government confiscation under certain circumstances. Gause recommended trading these for old circulated $20 gold pieces, which might offer more security.
Another caller questioned whether signs of economic foreclosure were already present, citing NAFTA and the Mexican bailout. Gause acknowledged these signs but emphasized that an inflationary cycle could have a similar impact.
Art Bell introduced his theory of “the quickening,” suggesting that social, political, and economic events are accelerating. Gause agreed, stating that economic matters are indeed quickening, with changes occurring so rapidly that many people are not paying attention.
One listener inquired about the legality of a nonprofit organization investing in gold and silver. Gause wasn’t certain but advised consulting an accountant for clarification.
Discussing investment strategies, Gause discouraged investing solely in municipal bonds, citing their vulnerability to fluctuations in the treasury bond market. He stressed the importance of diversifying investments rather than holding large amounts of cash, which he viewed as risky, especially considering potential currency changes. Gause suggested investing in tangible assets like gold, silver, art, antiques, or collectibles.
A caller brought up the FairTax movement, advocating for a consumption tax over taxing production. Gause supported this idea, explaining that it would mean individuals pay taxes based on their consumption level, thereby creating a fairer redistribution of wealth.
Another listener questioned whether it was better to make extra mortgage payments or invest in gold. Gause strongly recommended investing in gold or silver, especially for those with an adjustable-rate mortgage capped at a reasonable rate. He advised against locking up too much equity in a house, suggesting that it might be wise to leverage the equity for investment in tangible assets.
A caller inquired about the legality of nonprofit organizations investing in gold and silver. Gause was unsure about the specifics and advised consulting an accountant for accurate information.
Gause warned against investing solely in municipal bonds, highlighting their vulnerability to changes in the treasury bond market. He suggested diversifying investments and considering tangible assets like gold and silver over holding large amounts of cash.
A caller questioned what role the U.S. military might play if international sanctions were enforced against the U.S. due to debt default. Gause doubted the military would protect domestic interests in such a scenario, citing international law obligations.
The conversation shifted to the idea of a one-world currency and the potential for a cashless society. Gause expressed concerns about the loss of privacy and control in such a system.
A listener asked about the implications of a U.S. default on the debt. Gause explained that it would immediately impact social security and other trust funds heavily invested in treasury bonds, leading to a significant economic downturn. He also discussed the Republican plan to increase the debt ceiling, emphasizing the complexities and risks involved.
A listener asked about the legality of nonprofit organizations investing in gold and silver. Gause wasn’t certain and suggested consulting a tax expert for advice.
Discussing the U.S. potentially defaulting on its debt, Gause considered the extraordinary measures that the Treasury Secretary might take to avoid default. He believed that defaulting would have far worse consequences than any legal repercussions for unauthorized actions by the Treasury Secretary.
A caller from Rochester, New York, asked about the power of military intervention if international sanctions were imposed on the U.S. due to debt default. Gause doubted the military would defend domestic interests in such a scenario, citing its obligations under international law.
Gause advocated for diversifying investments and not relying solely on municipal bonds or cash. He suggested investing in tangible assets like gold, silver, and food storage.
A listener from Alaska inquired about Gause’s expertise, to which Gause replied that the discussion centered around money and economic strategies.
A caller from Bellevue pointed out the rising future prices of gold and silver as indicators of impending economic issues. Gause agreed and advised listeners to avoid wealth denominated in debt and to invest in tangible assets and equity.
Gause also discussed the importance of self-sufficiency, encouraging listeners to grow their own food and focus on producing real wealth. He suggested that remonetizing the Federal Reserve System with United States notes could stabilize the republic within five years.
Regarding the U.S. gold reserves, Gause clarified that they are pledged against the Federal Reserve note issue and, therefore, unlikely to be sold off as a last resort.
Gause revealed that the largest gold supply is stored in the vaults of the privately-owned Federal Reserve Bank of New York. He emphasized that the gold in Fort Knox is pledged against monetary reserves, thus not belonging to the United States. Gause suggested that understanding the Federal Reserve’s control over wealth is key to addressing economic challenges.
A caller from Austin, Texas, asked about the best investment options, and Gause humorously responded with a mention of Howard Stern, indicating that there’s no straightforward answer. Another caller from Detroit inquired about the security of funds in credit unions compared to banks. Gause explained that credit unions, which don’t create money but loan out deposits, are a more honest form of banking but cautioned that funds could be tied up in long-term loans.
Gause also discussed the unlikelihood of changes to the mortgage interest rate deduction, calling it a ‘sacred cow’ due to strong lobbying. He argued that a flat tax proposal is impractical and advocated for a consumption-based tax system, which he believed would encourage savings and fairer taxation.
Regarding the upcoming U.S. presidential election, Gause predicted that Bill Clinton would be reelected due to a strong economy orchestrated by the Federal Reserve. He foresaw a repeat of the economic conditions from 1977 to 1980, with rising interest rates and inflation towards the end of Clinton’s second term.
Art Bell clarified that Gause had no connection with the show’s sponsors and was brought on solely for an unbiased discussion on the economy.
Art Bell explained how companies selling gold make money. They profit from the spread between the actual price of gold and the price of collectible coins. He distinguished between buying gold for speculation on its increased value and purchasing it close to the ounce price for its numismatic value, which provides protection against government confiscation.
A caller from Austin, Texas, inquired about the best way to resell gold coins. Bell explained that there are established prices and grading systems, allowing the sale of gold coins to almost any coin dealer.
Another caller asked about the savings and loan scandal. Bell summarized the incident, explaining that deregulation allowed savings and loan institutions to invest in risky ventures. When these investments failed, taxpayers bore the cost due to government guarantees. He criticized the system for allowing these institutions to gamble with guaranteed funds.
Bell addressed a listener’s question about the location of U.S. gold reserves, confirming that the largest store of gold is in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. He clarified that this gold is not owned by the United States but is pledged against the monetary reserves.
The conversation then shifted to political discussions. A caller from Des Moines, Iowa, shared his insights on the upcoming Iowa caucuses, predicting Bob Dole would likely emerge as the winner, with Pat Buchanan as a strong contender. The caller doubted a potential alliance between Dole and Buchanan and speculated on Dole’s choice for a vice-presidential candidate, suggesting Colin Powell might be a consideration.
Bell expressed his personal opinions about the presidential candidates, appreciating Buchanan’s honesty and forthrightness. He also shared his concerns about Forbes’ temperament affecting his candidacy and discussed the potential impact of the Iowa caucuses on the presidential race.
A caller from Oakland, California, expressed skepticism about Bill Clinton’s re-election chances, citing various controversies. Bell agreed to address the caller’s concerns in a letter and requested proof for the allegations made.
Bell discussed the reliability of polls in predicting election outcomes, challenging a caller’s skepticism about their accuracy. He maintained that polls generally reflect public opinion fairly accurately, despite the caller’s assertion that they were as unreliable as “phony angel photographs.”
Listeners called in with various questions and comments. One caller from Loveland, Colorado, expressed gratitude for a recommendation Art Bell had made, while another from Detroit, Michigan, inquired about the authenticity of mail-order gold. Bell reassured the caller that U.S. minted $20 gold pieces are reliable purchases and suggested having any gold assessed by a coin dealer to verify its authenticity.
The conversation took a turn towards the unusual when a caller from Wenatchee shared experiences of having “weird visions” and strange interactions with electronic devices. Bell humorously suggested the caller stop holding their breath for extended periods, as it could lead to seeing “inky blackness.”
Another caller from San Diego inquired about an upcoming show on Bigfoot, and Bell confirmed the topic would be featured on his program “Dreamland.”
A caller humorously discussed a character called “Big Nose” and then shifted to commenting on the behavior of certain callers who, despite having genuine causes, often harm their points through their absurd approach.
The discussion then moved to politics, with a caller from Austin, Texas, expressing skepticism about poll results showing Bill Clinton leading against Republican candidates. Bell defended the general accuracy of polls, though he acknowledged the caller’s right to doubt them.
Listeners from various locations, including Vermont and Oregon, called in with their observations and opinions. One Vermont caller praised Pat Buchanan as a “breath of fresh air” and expressed regret that Colin Powell and Norman Schwarzkopf didn’t run for office.
A caller from Oregon provided a local perspective on the flooding situation in the area, and another caller brought up the topic of alleged misconduct in the White House related to the savings and loan scandal.
A caller from Sacramento asked about Bell’s views on the decriminalization of marijuana. Bell expressed his belief that marijuana should be decriminalized, arguing that it is less harmful than alcohol and that equating it with more dangerous drugs undermines the credibility of the drug war.
Another caller inquired about the band behind a piece of bumper music, which Bell identified as Blue Öyster Cult. The same caller also asked Bell which three historical figures he would like to meet. Bell humorously prioritized Shannon Doherty before considering more historical figures like Gandhi or George Washington.
A caller from San Diego posed a hypothetical question to Bell: if he could ask God one question, what would it be? Bell played along, imagining a conversation with God about the challenges faced by humanity and the concept of free will.
A listener from Gardena discussed a power outage in Los Angeles that affected the broadcast of the show. Bell confirmed there had been power issues in the area.
The conversation then took a turn towards the hypothetical, with a question about what Bell would do if he knew a comet was about to hit Earth and everyone had only one hour left. Bell responded that he would continue broadcasting to the end, providing commentary as the event unfolded.
A caller inquired about finding a copy of a specific science fiction television show, which Bell remembered watching but couldn’t recall the title. He discussed the challenges of obtaining certain TV shows on videotape, noting that some productions might not have been released for home viewing.
Another caller, Terry from Portland, expressed admiration for Bell’s show and shared his own aspirations to host a talk radio show. Bell encouraged Terry to pursue his dream and noted his upcoming appearance in Portland.
Bell also fielded a question about Steve Forbes’ stance on gun control. He mentioned hearing conflicting reports about Forbes’ position and couldn’t provide a definitive answer.
The show ended with a call from Missouri, where the caller had the honor of saying “good night America” on the show.