7 chapters across the catalog
A report on the "tampon tax" and the stigma surrounding menstruation leads to a discussion on the linguistic trend of dropping "T" sounds (glottal stops). The hosts reference a 1998 South Park episode that mocked this speech pattern and debate the usage of terms like "anyways" and "university."
In a YouTube interview, President Obama was asked why many states still apply a luxury tax to tampons. Obama admitted he had no idea why the tax exists but speculated it was because men were making the laws when the taxes were passed. The hosts push back against the narrative that white men are the "enemy" in this debate, arguing that the issue is a matter of state tax policy rather than a coordinated effort to oppress women.
Ashley Judd performed a poem by 19-year-old Nina Donovan titled "I am a Nasty Woman" at the Women's March. The performance touched on various social issues, including the "pink tax" on feminine hygiene products compared to the tax status of Viagra and Rogaine.
European Cultural Differences, Sanitary Product Preferences in Italy
A cultural observation from Italy suggests that a majority of women there prefer sanitary napkins over tampons. The hosts discuss this as a unique regional difference within the European Union that is rarely covered in mainstream media. The conversation touches on how education and tradition influence consumer product choices across different countries.
Vodka Tampon Media Scare, Interior Minister Helicopter Crash
A news clip warns parents about teenagers using vodka-soaked tampons to get drunk, a story the hosts deconstruct as a recurring media scare. In international news, Mexico's Interior Minister Blake Mora died in a helicopter crash. The hosts suggest the crash may be related to the "Fast and Furious" gun-running scandal and the cleaning up of evidence.
Vodka Tampons and Eating Disorder Study Scams
Police in Germany issued a warning about teenagers using vodka-soaked tampons to get drunk without having alcohol on their breath. The hosts suspect this may be a "copycat" trend inspired by a recent Law & Order episode. They also critique a study claiming women would trade a year of life for a perfect body, labeling it a marketing scam for a new charity.
Johnson & Johnson OB Tampon Shortage, Toxic Shock Syndrome
A nationwide shortage of Johnson & Johnson OB brand tampons is identified after failed attempts to locate the product at various retailers like Rite Aid and Ralphs. Reports indicate the product is being sold on eBay for as much as $160 due to its disappearance from store shelves. Speculation arises that the shortage is a cover-up for cases of toxic shock syndrome or significant production issues that the company has not fully disclosed to the public.
