Carte Blanche: The Podcast

Cape Town’s criminal underworld is up for grabs following Mark Lifman’s murder. Then, caught in a debt spiral – it’s time for government to clean house. Later, spam calls be gone! And how well do you know your national symbols? But first: it’s been called one of the biggest, most dramatic political comebacks in recent history. As Donald Trump wins a second term in the Oval Office, his election victory reveals a lot about the American voter. With just over half of the US population saying “Yes, we want more of Trump”, his presidency is sure to deliver a fair amount of chaos. But with promises of better living conditions, most Americans are seemingly more than willing to put up with it. The rest of the world be damned… Caryn Dolley on Mark Lifman · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Another tender, another scandal. But it might not be too late. Then, it’s back to school for ANC members. We ask: what’s the point? Later, the US elections are here and it could be an uncomfortably close race. And a win for families as Tiger Brands offers to pay up. But first: this past week’s mini-budget was hardly one for the history books. With a strong emphasis on early retirement and public-private partnerships when it comes to infrastructure projects, we unpack some of the key points. Ghost Company Bags R428-Million Tender · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

All for show… Why this year’s BRICS Summit felt rather pointless. Later, why hundreds of medical professionals are fleeing to Canada. Then, society is seemingly calling it quits on news. Why that’s a problem. And how one women’s vision reshaped the mental health conversation in South Africa. But first, another girl found dead at the hands of a depraved man. The country recoiled in horror as 6-year-old Amantle Samane was raped and murdered in Orlando East in Soweto last week. She becomes yet another young life lost in the most brutal way imaginable. With a man in custody, and court proceedings expected to continue this coming Friday, young Amantle’s murder comes as the country grapples with two more court cases involving child trafficking and murder. We look at how these handful of cases serve as a reflection on our very broken society. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Budget cuts threaten to decimate our already fragile education sector. Later, express kidnappings are on the rise – we look at the stats. Then, a national hero – why rape survivor Alison Botha needs your help. And it’s bye-bye Karpowership! But first, more than 100 days in, our government of national unity is teetering on the edge as various political parties struggle to meet each other halfway. From the highly controversial Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill to National Health Insurance – powersharing roleplayers just can’t see eye-to-eye. So, can a newly formed conflict resolution committee be the GNU’s saving grace? Help Alison Botha · Carte Blanche · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

An organisation being torn apart from the inside – what the conflict between two ANC heavyweights reveals about the party. Then, another fail for former Public Protector, Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Later, the US hurricanes serve as a sobering preview of things to come. And a Minister on a mission – Gayton McKenzie delivers on his promises. But first, now that the City of Tshwane has a new mayor at the helm, two coalition role players are pulling in two very different directions. On the one hand, we have the DA making demands – give us back our mayor, or else. And on the other, the EFF is showing us its mature side and calling for stability. All this while the battle for Ekurhuleni heats up… Daily Maverick · Carte Blanche · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

The ocean covers 70% of the Earth’s surface, making it the largest living space on our planet. It’s a vast world, largely unexplored, and has the ability to both soothe and terrify. Embracing both these on a daily basis is Zandile Ndlovu, lovingly known by many as The Black Mermaid. Conservationist, activist, filmmaker, author, and South Africa’s first black female freediving instructor, Zandi has now added one more title to her long list of achievements – penguin warrior. We sit down with this formidable woman of the water to find out more about life under the sea, embracing fear, saving penguins, and changing lives. Save African Penguins from Extinction · Black Mermaid Foundation · The Black Mermaid · Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Labour Department raids expose dodgy employers. Then, the Lusikisiki Massacre reignites the illegal firearms conversation… Later, the tenth of October is D-day for Durban as taps run dry.

And a fascinating study on how viable a universal grant could be in South Africa. But first, the City of Tshwane finds itself rudderless once more as city mayor Cillier Brink is kicked from his mayoral seat. However, he might still make a triumphant return… Meanwhile, a few more candidates are waiting in the wings… Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

While the GNU looks healthy more than 100 days in, the same can’t be said for provincial government… Then, from Palestine to Lebanon – why President Ramaphosa believes South Africa could play an integral mediation role. Later, why Eskom’s proposed tariff hikes won’t address the real issue… Also, are we turning a corner in the fight against rhino poaching? And we find inspiration in the stories of 35 trailblazers under 35. But first, as pressure mounts on the ANC and President Cyril Ramaphosa to act against Justice Minister, Thembi Simelane, some are beginning to say this is all part of a ploy to halt prosecutions in the VBS and State Capture matters. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Beware the lemon… A cautionary tale when it comes to buying a second-hand car.

Then, another state-owned enterprise – this time to tackle our water woes. Also, how exploding pagers and walkie-talkies pave the way for a new kind of warfare. Later, how the world’s smelliest fruit is contributing to skyrocketing coffee prices. And the wheels of justice turn slowly – but at least, they’re turning. But first, just over two weeks into its existence, the two-pot retirement fund has already led to billions of rands making its way back into the economy. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook

Something is rotten in the state of… Joburg. From libraries to roads and everything in between – we look at the Joburg Files. Then, Helen Joseph Hospital hell. Later, wage negotiation season is officially open. Why public servants are fighting an uphill battle. We also discuss the rather bizarre US presidential debate. And a lesson in zen – how breathing and hamsters can help you chill. But first, we reflect on Pravin Gordhan's legacy. Carte Blanche Website · Chat on X · Chat on Facebook