Gorilla Lives Matter, Meth Loans & Fax Machines, Smartphone Cancer

In this vintage episode of the Brand X Podcast, originally broadcast on May 31, 2016, hosts John Jamingo and Deuce kick things off with light-hearted banter about classic summer foods like grilled hot dogs, potato salad, and especially the beloved Jersey tomato. The duo fondly reminisce about summertime produce and recount funny stories from their youth and experiences working in local food shops, highlighting Jersey tomatoes' messiness—yet unmistakable deliciousness.

The main topic shifts to the highly publicized Harambe incident at the Cincinnati Zoo, where a gorilla was shot after a child fell into its enclosure. John and Deuce passionately debate the ethical considerations of the event, firmly supporting the zoo’s decision to protect the child despite public backlash. They criticize what they see as an overzealous tendency to anthropomorphize animals and challenge the notion that tranquilizing the gorilla would have been a safer or more effective option. The conversation also touches on reactions from political figures and zookeepers, and humor is injected as John suggests stuffing Harambe as a zoo reminder.

The episode also features amusing anecdotes about quirky news stories, such as a man attempting to secure a loan to buy methamphetamines and the outdated use of fax machines. Rounding out the show, John and Deuce discuss a controversial study linking cell phone radiation to cancer, ultimately expressing skepticism and framing it as a cash grab for research funding. They close with their trademark irreverence and calls for listener engagement on social media.

• [00:00:05] Episode introduction and vintage Brand X banter
• [00:01:11] Listener appreciation and early show milestones
• [00:02:01] Memorial Day food traditions and Jersey tomato appreciation
• [00:08:03] Discussion of the Harambe gorilla incident at Cincinnati Zoo
• [00:23:13] Social media reactions and teachable moments from Harambe event
• [00:29:26] Quirky news: Man tries to get a loan to buy meth & fax machine humor
• [00:40:33] Cell phone radiation study linking usage to cancer and skepticism
• [00:55:40] Show wrap-up, listener engagement, and episode sign off