Topic: Arak

The hosts perform a knighting ceremony for Sir Hummus from the Middle East. They discuss the traditional anise-flavored spirit "Arak," comparing it to Greek Uzo, French Pastis, and Italian Sambuca. The segment reinforces the "value for value" model of the podcast.

Honeywell is reportedly continuing business operations in Iran through its subsidiary, Universal Oil Products, despite U.S. sanctions. The company is involved in upgrading the Arak refinery while simultaneously serving as a major contractor for the United States government. The hosts highlight the contradiction of a U.S. defense contractor developing Iran's energy infrastructure.