10 chapters across the catalog
South Africa Vaccine Skepticism, Excess Death Analysis
Surveys in South Africa indicate that between one-third and one-half of the population is resistant to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. The skepticism spans various religious and traditional groups. Analysis of excess death data suggests that while more people died in 2020 than in previous years, the causes and demographics of these deaths remain a subject of intense debate.
South Africa Alcohol Ban, Hospital Trauma Cases
South Africa implemented an immediate ban on alcohol sales until mid-January to alleviate pressure on hospitals. Correspondent Nomsa Maseko reports that while facilities in the Western Cape are at 140% capacity, the strain is largely due to trauma cases from crime and accidents rather than COVID-19.
Executive Producer Donations, Vaping Dude Named Ben
James Richard of Massachusetts is knighted as "Vaping Dude Named Ben" following a $271.27 donation. He shares a story about his wife, an illegal immigrant from 2013, and their upcoming trip to Johannesburg. Other donations include Jacob Turley, who requests a "de-douching" and various sound clips including the "magical shape-shifting Jew" and "Zika" jingles.
The hosts read a final list of producers from around the world, including donors from Sydney, Munich, and Johannesburg. They grant "job karma" to several listeners starting new positions in early January and thank the "anonymous lesbian" for her continued support.
Nelson Mandela Memorial, Fake Sign Language Interpreter and Security
The hosts analyze the memorial service for Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg, focusing on the fraudulent sign language interpreter, Thamsanqa Jantjie. Jantjie claimed to have suffered a schizophrenic episode involving hallucinations of angels during the event. The incident is viewed as a significant security failure, as the interpreter stood within arm's reach of global leaders including Barack Obama.
Bill Clinton, Nelson Mandela Relationship, South Africa 1993
Personal anecdotes from 1993 describe the atmosphere in Johannesburg during the transition from apartheid. Archival audio features Bill Clinton discussing his "special bond" with Nelson Mandela, claiming they became close friends after meeting at the 1992 Democratic Convention. Clinton recounts stories of Mandela calling to speak with Chelsea Clinton about her homework, though the hosts express skepticism regarding the sincerity of these claims.
Euronews reports on a rare cold snap in South Africa that brought snow to Johannesburg for only the 22nd time in 103 years. The event is contrasted with global warming narratives, noting how media outlets like NPR framed the weather as a human-interest story rather than a climatic anomaly.
The hosts contrast current World Cup coverage with a 2006 Globe Trekker report that painted an overly optimistic picture of Johannesburg. The older report claimed crime was a thing of the past and highlighted luxury developments like Melrose Arch. The hosts suggest the media is ignoring the underlying poverty and social issues in the townships surrounding the new stadiums.
District 9 Movie Review, South African Aliens, and Prawns
The science fiction film District 9 receives a highly negative review despite its acclaimed cinematography and special effects. The plot involves a million aliens stranded in a Johannesburg ghetto known as District 9, where they are derogatorily called "prawns." The narrative's focus on a multinational company (MNU) managing a forced relocation to a concentration camp is criticized for being stomach-churning and gross.
South African Resorts, Blue Train Service
Travel plans for a photo shoot at a five-star resort near Johannesburg include discussions of the Blue Train, a famous luxury rail service running to Cape Town. The region is known for its high-end tourism infrastructure, though many visitors opt to remain within the confines of secure resorts.
