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    #234: The Bulgarian Punching Channel

    Merlin penetration tests his vacation.

    May 9th, 2024 · 84 minutes

    Merlin shares two recent experiences with Apple technology that were unqualified successes. Which, of course, leads to a jeremiad about some consumer tech that's a good deal less successful. John explains how writing books is like jazz, man.

    This episode of Reconcilable Differences is sponsored by:

    • Squarespace: Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code DIFFS.

    Stream this episode

    Download: MP3 (77.17 MB)

    Links and Show Notes

    Things kick off with a recent Apple ID dust-up, but John's not so sure it's any different than the usual Apple ID dust-ups. Merlin has a panic attack when his beloved debit card doesn't work.

    Then, there's some Follow-Up on the Magic Marker System which John thinks might be post hoc BS, and Merlin asks John to clarify his term for being his family's TV ambassador, although that's not the word he used.

    In something like a main topic, Merlin shares two recent experiences with Apple technology that were unqualified successes. Which, of course, leads to a jeremiad about some consumer tech that's a good deal less successful.

    Merlin suspects Airbnbs might be a racket for rich people to get free housekeeping for a house they've never actually lived in, and John explains how writing books is like jazz, man.

    In this week's members-only after show, Merlin has a quick drinking update, and then your hosts discuss the very good FX show, Shōgun. Spoiler Horn fires off at 2:08:06.

    You can sign up today to hear all the member episodes, get cool bonus stuff, and—yes—support this program.

    (Recorded on Tuesday, April 2, 2024)

    Credits
    Baader–Meinhof phenomenon
    The episode of Upgrade where Myke talks about his Apple ID problems
    A BS rationalization of the Waffle House Magic Marker System - TikTok
    The Flop House
    AeroGarden
    Shōgun
    The plastic pregnant lady
    The death of UK coal in five charts
    Rule of threes (survival) - Wikipedia

    Normally, the rule of threes contains the following:

    • You can survive three minutes without breathable air (unconsciousness), or in icy water.
    • You can survive three hours in a harsh environment (extreme heat or cold).
    • You can survive three days without drinkable water.
    • You can survive three weeks without food. Technically, many people have gone for 40 days on a water fast and have survived.
    Letterkenny - "To Be Faaaaair…"
    “To Be Fair” on Letterkenny - YouTube