Podcasts by The Corrigan Cast

Dawn of the downsizers from 2023-12-12T17:13:37

There is some hope, small as it may be, that today's generations can turn away from the evils of materialism. For the text of this vlog, visit Listen

Goodbye Nanny State! Hello Overbearing Mother Society (it's beginning to look a lot like China!) from 2023-11-23T18:06:09

The state and its associates are taking greater control of the everyday lives of its citizens. We should be more concerned about this. For the text of this vlog, visit Listen

A little blue in the green, green grass of Ireland from 2023-11-07T19:22:06

Ireland in winter isn't a great place to be at the best of times. So when one is struggling for direction it can seem particularly bleak. For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Seventh heaven: Seven benefits of living in Colombia from 2023-10-17T15:22:43

Here are seven reasons why we feel Colombia is one of the world's best countries to live in for one's health and well-being. Do you agree? For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Free love and sexual fluidity: Queer today, gay tomorrow from 2023-10-04T13:39:39

Sexuality may be more fluid than some of us like to think it is. For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Yes Güicán! But you just can't touch the snow-capped mountains | Magical Colombia! from 2023-09-28T16:05:11

The snow-capped peaks near the town of Güicán in Colombia's Boyacá department are fairly easy to reach. The pre-trek bureaucracy can present its own challenge, though. And don't touch th...

'An alcoholic?! Me?! No way!' from 2023-09-14T15:22:17

If he were an alcoholic, our podcaster would be following in the, um, fine tradition of heavy-drinking Irish writers. However, can he even come close to being associated with such esteemed (and ...

Colombia's credit contradiction from 2023-09-04T16:00:40

Many beer-serving tiendas in Colombia say they don't give credit. In reality, with the payment systems in operation, they often do. For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Less stress, less success in these idle times from 2023-08-24T16:12:07

It is said that less stress leads to more success. This doesn't mean, however, that we shouldn't push ourselves or look to get outside our comfort zone. For the text of this audio blog,...

Cartagena: A costly Colombian Caribbean city but more relaxed than I'd remembered from 2023-08-15T16:50:25

The fact that Cartagena is one of Colombia's top tourist destinations meant I wasn't keen to return. Yet, my recent visit had more positives than negatives. For the text of this audio b...

Colombia's plebeian transport: A riveting ride from 2023-08-08T16:22:29

From roadblocks to unruly passengers and jousting rival drivers, there's rarely a dull moment when travelling by bus in Colombia. For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Tight times ahead with no respite in sight — we ain't seen nothing yet from 2023-07-26T15:45:40

While times have been difficult income-wise for our writer in Bogotá this year, it's not certain an indefinite return to Europe will make things any better. For the text of this audio blog,...

Exacting revenge from 2023-07-18T16:51:05

It is said that revenge is a dish best served cold. In some circumstances, it's best left in the kitchen indefinitely. For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Fattening up our future health problems with ultra-processed foods from 2023-07-11T15:48:41

Be it due to ignorance, indifference or negligence, what some parents allow their toddlers to eat is worrying. For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

In need of some peace and quiet? Sleepy Somondoco is the place to go to from 2023-07-04T19:45:17

The small town of Somondoco, in Colombia's Boyacá department, is as quiet and peaceful as they come in these parts.

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Bogged down in Bogotá from 2023-06-27T16:27:14

A move away from Bogotá won't solve all of my issues but it may give a boost to both body and mind.

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Video version of IQuiz "The Bogotá Pub Quiz", edition LXII: What a Juuune! | Give it a go! from 2023-06-23T15:27:31

Play this video version of IQuiz LXII. The live event was held at Cervecería Gigante, Bogotá on Thursday 22 June 2023 (important to know this for the on-this-day questions!). Let us know how y...

Fiendish frenemies: The toxicity of ambivalent relationships from 2023-06-15T14:05:54

While keeping your enemies closer than your friends may be prudent advice, studies show it's the frenemies that you need to watch the most. For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Drink-from-home boozers: Take to the tiendas instead! from 2023-06-07T15:18:43

In Colombia, drinking from home is generally more expensive and can incommode housemates and neighbours. Booze in tienda bars instead, guys! For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Making the bell toll for us while we still can | What's rung is rung! from 2023-05-30T18:38:15

What's rung is rung but we should keep ringing while we still can.

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Not so gaga for physical footy: Time to nip it in the rib?! from 2023-05-18T16:34:16

Returning to play a contact sport after a long gap was fun. Dealing with the rib injuries sustained has been less fun.

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

The panadería's pudgy pauper: Is a boy's begging for bread killing him softly? from 2023-05-11T15:16:30

I have reason to doubt the bona fides of a boy who begs for bread in Bogotá. Am I being too cruel? For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Little thirst to teach English in these thinking times | Any chance of a few pennies for my thoughts?! from 2023-05-04T16:34:30

There are worse gigs out there yet Wrong Way is far from enthusiastic for English teaching. If only one could get a few pennies for one's thoughts. For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Still chasing that dragon. Don't dream it's over! from 2023-04-13T20:35:19

From BBC Radio 5 Live's Drive show, Wednesday 12 April 2023. Listen to the programme in full at ...

A Boyacá fruit route: Tierra Negra-Nuevo Colón-Turmequé from 2023-04-13T15:22:18

While it's not marketed as such, Wrong Way wandered across this pleasant three-town "fruit route" in Colombia's Boyacá department. It's set to become The Wrong Way Corrigan...

The quiet man conquereth (beware the quiet ones) from 2023-04-05T14:37:47

Playing the quiet man, being the silent type, often leads to better results in resolving certain disputes.

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Benign smartphone use: My message to BBC Radio 5 Live, thanks to my phone! from 2023-04-03T14:31:53

It's a theme I've explored many times, the positive and negative aspects of smartphones (see, for example, Listen

Find a way or fade away: But is the end nigh for the age of the wage slave? from 2023-03-28T15:07:01

While most of us dream of earning money from what we truly enjoy doing, the reality is usually quite different. But is the wage-slave age coming to an end?

For the text of this audio blo...

Chasing Zetaquirá's waterfalls — from hot to cold from 2023-03-21T17:20:02

The Boyacá town of Zetaquirá has plenty of attractions, including Colombia's tallest thermal waterfall. Just be careful bathing in its waters when the rains come! For the text of this audio...

Tourism cancer from 2023-03-14T14:56:34

There are various reasons why there's a belief that 'tourism's greatest cancer is tourism.' Is the industry environmentally unsustainable? 

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Agents of short-change from 2023-03-07T14:54:12

It was only after getting paid that I discovered the hefty percentage the talent agency awarded itself from the payment from the production company for the role I played. 

For the te...

Rewarding the reckless from 2023-02-27T15:39:48

While some people seek loans for their very survival, others seem to do so in order to maintain a relatively costly social life. Attempting to cut back isn't part of their modus operandi. <...

Living with unsettled and unsettling questions from 2023-02-15T16:43:20

For many of today's most contentious issues, the solutions are unlikely to be found by adopting a fundamentalist approach. Some, however, believe their way is the only way. 

For the ...

Abandoning the beer standard from 2023-02-09T17:26:05

There's much to be said for adopting a more lightweight approach to drinking beer. This can be easier said than done, however.  

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Focusing on filling the glass from 2023-02-01T15:45:06

Longing for halcyon days of yore is about as useful as overly focusing on past traumas.  

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

A shout-out to Sutamarchán from 2023-01-25T16:23:50

Sutamarchán's claim that it has the best climate in the world is quite debatable. That aside, it's a nice town to visit. 

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

The care necessities: Dealing with old age from 2023-01-20T15:45:22

The mental decline of a loved one is arguably more difficult to come to terms with than seeing him/her physically deteriorate. In terms of prevention, lifestyle choices at a younger age could he...

A Pauna cracker: Somewhat satisfying and not too dry from 2023-01-12T12:35:12

The town of Pauna in Colombia's Boyacá department may not top many must-visit lists but it has its plus points all the same. 

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Finding that savoury spot between feasting and fasting from 2023-01-03T16:12:01

Incorporating intermittent fasting into our lives could work wonders for our overall health. That and cutting out highly processed foods. 

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

The Wrong Way "hits" of 2022 from 2022-12-29T16:13:20

It's perhaps a sign of people's declining attention spans that Wrong Way's most-viewed content this year has been on YouTube Shorts. Silliness sells!  

For the text of this audio blo...

BBC Radio 5 Live Christmas message from 2022-12-23T18:51:36

My Christmas message to BBC Radio's 5 Live Drive show. The thumbnail photo makes sense when you listen to the audio! Fair play to Mairead Smyth, she knows her plant machinery! 

For a...

Lending Migración Colombia a helping hand from 2022-12-22T15:27:42

Migración Colombia's visa-registration process is fairly smooth. It has one quite significant blind spot, however. 

For the text of this audio blog, go to Listen

Unattended bags on buses? Not a problem in Colombia from 2022-12-15T14:54:01

In most countries, an unattended bag on a bus would lead to security chaos. Not in Colombia, at least not for Expreso Gómez Villa. 'Carry on regardless.' 

For the blog version of thi...

The Hypocrite World Cup: Everyone's a winner from 2022-12-07T15:08:13

There is an abundance of holier-than-thou hypocrites abound these days, many coming from the "freedom"-loving West. 'Do as I say, not as I do.'  

For the text of this audio blog, see...

Audio blog: The digital dystopia from 2022-11-24T15:16:53

The many drawbacks of the Digital Age are becoming more apparent. Taking back a modicum of control won't be easy. 

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: The just-how-it-is society from 2022-11-11T17:21:17

Many people have a tendency to just accept certain longstanding rules and regulations, even if they make little sense in today's world. 

For the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Audio blog: The calm of La Palma (when music's not blaring, that is!) from 2022-11-04T15:19:09

La Palma in Cundinamarca, Colombia is a nice Andean town but it has lots of similar, easier-to-get-to competition in these parts. 

For the text of this audio blog, go to Listen

Audio blog: Everlasting love? from 2022-10-26T17:14:24

Are the concepts of everlasting love and soulmates just pure fantasy? Whatever the case, as the saying goes, 'love don't (sic!) come easy'.  

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: The bellicose side to biking in Bogotá, worsened by the snooty "e-scooterers" from 2022-10-19T15:32:52

Bogotá's cycle paths, like many things in the city and Colombia in general, are something of a free-for-all. The recent e-scooter invasion isn't helping the situation. 

Read the text...

Audio blog | Grupo Vanti's vanity: 'The customer is rarely right' from 2022-10-11T16:27:48

Seeing as how Colombia's network gas provider, Vanti, loves to squeeze money from its customers, it could close its customer service department to save even more cash. Because such a service at ...

Audio blog: Colombia's clothes-in-the-window bane from 2022-09-29T16:36:07

There are some ridiculous rules enforced in some of Colombia's apartment complexes.  

For the text of this audio blog, go to Listen

Audio blog | San Luis de Gaceno: Going its own way from 2022-09-21T18:36:03

San Luis de Gaceno in the hot low-lying lands of Colombia's Boyacá department has much going for it, particularly as a place to unwind. 

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Easygoing El Peñon. But is Topaipí tops? from 2022-09-16T14:49:50

Two of Colombia's lesser-visited spots, the neighbouring towns of El Peñón and Topaipí in Cundinamarca, are appraised here. Is Topaipí tops? 

For the text version, go to Listen

Audio blog: Hooked on the BBC (or CCP if you will) from 2022-09-09T15:41:39

Even with all of Bogotá's other delights, Wrong Way Corrigan finds it hard to do without his BBC fix. 

For the text of this audio blog, go to Listen

And now for something a little different ... from 2022-09-06T01:48:43

BBC Radio 2's Sounds of the 90s. A great production! https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001bjp8

#FearneCotton #Sou...

Audio blog: The liberal illusion from 2022-09-01T15:19:48

The actions of many who profess to be liberals suggest they are anything but. 

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Colombia on the fringes from 2022-08-19T15:19:44

As Colombia tries to widen its tax base, many of its citizens seem to live outside the state's structures. Wrong Way is the same boat somewhat. 

Read the text of this audio blog at <...

Audio blog: The Bogotá curse from 2022-08-12T15:38:53

Has the rather inauspicious date of Wrong Way's first arrival to Bogotá set the tone for his time in the city? 

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Return of the peripatetic preceptor and the languid language learners from 2022-08-05T18:54:34

Wrong Way is back giving in-person English classes to adults. Does it matter, though, that he's not a "real" teacher? 

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Decluttering discussion with Nihal Arthanayake on BBC Radio 5 Live from 2022-08-02T16:39:01

My decluttering discussion with Nihal Arthanayake on BBC Radio 5 Live. 

For further background, see Listen

Audio blog: The WhatsApp voice messages of wrath from 2022-07-22T15:19:39

Some people love to communicate using WhatsApp voice messages. Wrong Way doesn't. And he thinks those who use them excessively are selfish. 

Read the text of this audio at Listen

Audio blog: 'Death to dissenters. It's for your own good.' from 2022-07-13T14:59:12

Being a dissenter isn't always easy but when one sees discrepancies in the mainstream narrative, one has to ask honest questions. Getting honest answers is another issue altogether. 

Audio blog: A pleasant Villanueva vibe from 2022-07-07T18:17:04

While Villanueva may not exactly be one of Colombia's tourism hotspots, it has a nice vibe to it all the same.   

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Colombia's foreign "saviours" from 2022-07-01T15:39:11

Some foreigners who come to Colombia seem to think their "mission" is to save the "impoverished" locals. And some Colombians are quite happy to go along with this. 

Read the text of ...

Audio blog: Conservative Colombia left in the cold — for now from 2022-06-21T14:55:23

Colombia has elected a leftist president for the first time in its history. Does this mean the country is about to go the socialist route, à la Venezuela? 

Read the text of this audi...

Audio blog: Making ends meet in Colombia from 2022-06-17T16:21:20

The idea that many of Colombia's country folk, campesinos, live a life of poverty or close to it really depends on how one views it. 

Read the text of this blog at Listen

Audio blog: Set on singlehood from 2022-06-09T16:17:19

Some people seem to view long-term singletons as being lonely and sad. Not all of us feel the need to have a regular partner, though. 

Read the text of this blog at Listen

Audio blog | Saboyá, Boyacá A rare hotel less Colombian town from 2022-06-01T15:46:12

Most Colombian towns, no matter how small, seem to have a hotel or the like. The quaint Saboyá in Boyacá bucks this trend. It's still worth a visit all the same. 

Read the text at Listen

Audio blog: Bogotá's biking blues from 2022-05-23T17:24:25

Bogotá's authorities like to boast about the city's many cycle lanes. 

They may look good on paper but, in reality, many are in very poor condition. 

Read the text of thi...

Audio blog: Colombia's aggressive-driver mentality from 2022-05-05T15:19:22

The driving style of many Colombians falls into the 'short-term gain, long-term loss' category. 

It could be argued this sums up the country's behaviour in many spheres. 

Audio blog: Paths to cleaner living from 2022-04-27T15:03:12

Trying to change one's ways, especially when addiction is involved, often requires taking rather drastic measures. For many, religion is the answer.  

Wrong Way believes in a somewha...

Audio blog | Colombia decides: Go with Gutiérrez or plump for Petro? from 2022-04-22T15:33:44

Colombia's upcoming presidential election is set to be a head-to-head between the leftist Gustavo Petro and centrist Federico "Fico"  Gutiérrez. 

Is the country about to elect i...

Audio blog: A balmier (and wetter) side to Boyacá from 2022-04-09T15:39:30

Colombia's Boyacá department may not be too well known for its tropical treats, but it does have some pleasing hotspots. The small town of Santa María is one of them. 

Read the text ...

Audio blog: Drunk almost to death on the culture wars from 2022-03-31T15:24:33

Dealing with the pernicious actions of those drunk on the culture  wars/cancel culture is proving to be a difficult task for the soberer amongst us. We're not without hope, though.  Listen

Audio blog: Running frantically to a more troubled life from 2022-03-24T15:54:46

Many of us would do well to match the tortoise's tempo rather than the hare's when it comes to work and our lives in general. 

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Leo Varadkar: Visa-free travel to Ireland for Colombians | 'New generation' Boric encouraging from 2022-03-18T17:58:47

Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister, Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, talks to me about his plans to make it easier for Colombians to visit the country,  why he has been trying to persuade Latin American...

Audio blog: Feigning understanding. Who cares anyway? from 2022-03-16T15:30:15

While at times I wish I had native-level Spanish, in most scenarios, what I have suffices. The locals don't appear to listen to what one has to say for the most part in any case. 

Re...

Audio blog: In awe of the strongman from 2022-03-09T16:02:14

The strongman leader still appears to appeal to many, whether one looks East or West. Such types may be easier to read than the "gentler"  tyrants. 

Read the text of this audio ...

Audio blog: Tibaná time from 2022-03-07T16:46:48

Tranquil #Tibaná may not be every traveller's "cup of coffee" but,  unnecessary sweetened brews aside, it's got enough going for it to warrant a visit. 

Read the text of this au...

Audio blog: The West "woke" to its demise from 2022-02-28T16:01:11

While #VladimirPutin may have lost his mind, so has much of #TheWest, where many concern themselves with trivial issues while major problems go unchecked. 

Read the text of this audi...

Audio blog: Lest we forget from 2022-02-21T14:42:16

As society (slowly) realises we have to learn to live with #covid19 rather than stop living, we must not forget the many acts of madness enforced on us throughout the pandemic.  

Rea...

Audio blog: Never-ending solo searching from 2022-02-14T15:32:06

At this moment in time, a life of #solitude sounds rather bliss, if one could make it sustainable that is.   

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: A reinvigorated fun police from 2022-01-27T16:16:18

Many people seem to get more enjoyment out of denying others their small dose of fun rather than doing anything exciting themselves. The  #coronavirus pandemic has given such types more sco...

Audio blog: Gachetá if you can from 2022-01-20T16:19:29

Capital of the province of #Guavio in #Cundinamarca, #Colombia, one could do worse than spend a few nights in #Gachetá when looking for a  short escape from Bogotá. 

Read the te...

Audio blog: Addicted to a prescribed life from 2022-01-13T20:36:17

Medical science has made some great advancements in recent history. But #BigPharma and the like aren't always the best solution to our health problems. 

Read the text of this audio b...

Covid-19, anti-vaxxers & immunity: My chat with Noel D. Walsh on Shannonside Northern Sound from 2022-01-07T15:51:46

Noel D. Walsh is in the Joe Finnegan Show hot seat on Shannonside  Northern Sound and he chats to me about covid-19, vaccines and plans to  return to #Ireland for a long-overdue pint!<...

Audio blog: As Bog(otá)-standard as it gets from 2022-01-06T15:20:52

While having a (good) #routine can be beneficial, one also has to be able to accept change. 

And, sometimes, one must look to enforce change,  especially when life looks to have...

Audio blog: Wrong Way's tops and flops of 2021 from 2021-12-23T17:41:14

The #coronavirus pandemic once again dominated the global agenda in  2021. 

The most popular Wrong Way Corrigan posts of the year largely reflect this (or it might be simply dow...

Audio blog: Cosying up to Cúcuta from 2021-12-10T15:54:01

#Cúcuta may not feature high on the list of must-see cities in Colombia, but it has its charms. 

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Ten-up, a decade of 'Wrong Way Corrigan — The Blog' from 2021-12-03T18:38:30

On 03 December 2011, Wrong Way Corrigan — The Blog was created. Ten years later, it's still going, perhaps not quite strong, but going nonetheless. To where exactly, who knows?  

Rea...

Audio blog: The Great Resignation from 2021-11-22T14:28:40

The pandemic has seen many people leave their old jobs in search of more fulfilling employment, a move that has been termed the  #GreatResignation. To what, however, are we resigning oursel...

Audio blog: The case for non-pharmaceutical covid defences from 2021-11-12T18:33:56

Governments and public health bodies across the world seem unwilling to accept that #NaturalImmunity alone can combat #covid19, despite growing evidence of its robustness for many people. <...

Audio blog: The thuggish thief, a growing problem for Colombia? from 2021-11-05T19:09:11

Perception is reality and right now many Colombians believe — whether this is actually the case or not — that the country is experiencing a  rise in violent crime. And some blame this on th...

Audio blog: The barrio banker from 2021-10-29T19:01:56

Bank of Wrong Way's generous loan terms makes it a popular choice with some folk in one North #Bogotá barrio. It's certainly no #Rothschild  Bank.

Read the text of this audio blog ...

Audio blog: These boots aren't made for walkin' from 2021-10-15T18:10:49

Like many things in #Colombia, shoes on offer here may have plenty of style but they often lack real substance, as I've found out to my cost and frustration.

Read the text of this audio b...

Audio blog: Happy in Jenesano from 2021-10-01T17:41:51

Some might say all towns in #Colombia's #Boyacá department are the same, but Wrong Way's time in #Jenesano and its surrounds was memorable all the same.

Read the text of this audio blog a...

Audio blog: Rocking in the fear world from 2021-09-25T18:22:22

An irrational fear of contracting covid-19 is seeing people risk their lives in other ways in a bid to avoid the infection.

It makes one wonder how some manage to leave their houses at al...

Audio blogs: Cry me a perico — adiós to a Bogotá addiction from 2021-09-17T18:24:54

An unexpected, largely unwanted change gives Wrong Way the chance to overcome a long-standing #Bogotá addiction. But will the departure of his main dealer lead to a reduction in consumption? &nb...

Audio blog: "Essential" Colombian expressions to help you through the day from 2021-09-10T18:55:04

Some helpful, what may be viewed as working-class Colombian words and sayings that will have you sounding like a local — well, almost. Just lose the accent, gringo marica.

Read the text o...

Audio blog: The vaccine vexers from 2021-09-03T17:53:59

First, it was coronavirus-containment measures that divided us. Now it's the idea of compulsory covid-19 vaccines.

All this pandemic division brings to mind #Raskolnikov's dream in Fyodor...

Audio blog: Warning! Being true to yourself causes harm from 2021-08-27T17:54:03

At a time when we could do with more of our leaders being true to themselves, what we seem to be getting is the complete opposite.

Rather than conviction, we're getting vacillation.

Audio blog: A series of unfortunate events — when Bogotá bites back from 2021-08-20T14:09:55

Whether it's letting the guard down or being foolhardy, our writer has experienced plenty of unfortunate events in #Bogotá.

Here we go through some of the more standout incidents.

...

Audio blog: Bogotá's perpetual Corner Bar barrio from 2021-08-12T18:39:41

A hedonistic paradise of sorts in its day, The Corner Bar, #Ballaghaderreen is no longer with us. For better or for worse, however, there's a similar vibe to be found today in the far north of #...

Audio blog: Enticing extras, the siren call of our times from 2021-07-30T18:24:32

Despite it often being ire-inducing, getting the call for #extras work can, at times, be too tempting to resist.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Our freedom isn't being taken away — we never had it in the first place from 2021-07-22T13:39:56

While many have complained about a loss of freedoms of late, the reality is we've never really been truly free. What we're experiencing now is a comedown from peak (relative) freedom.

Rea...

Audio blog: 'And your date of death is ...' from 2021-07-15T18:02:36

Would you opt to know the date of your death if you had the choice? It would come at a price, however.

Read the text of this blog at Listen

Audio blog: OK, covid's not the flu. But it's not yellow fever, either from 2021-07-08T17:58:40

Proof of a #YellowFever #vaccine to enter certain countries is being used as justification for a similar scheme for #covid_19. Wrong Way has issues with this comparison.

Read the text of ...

Audio blog: Breaking up (with WhatsApp groups) ain't hard to do from 2021-06-30T18:12:32

For some people in certain walks of life, leaving a #WhatsApp group is an emotional moment. Wrong Way, however, can easily live without such groups.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Scaling down survival mode from 2021-06-24T17:02:14

Despite decision-makers telling us that we have to learn to live with covid-19, the cautious approach to a full reopening dominates in many places, both publicly and privately.

Read the t...

Audio blog: Hold tight, the worst is yet to come from 2021-06-16T12:37:28

Those looking forward to a 21st-century roaring twenties should dampen down their expectations. While a new age may be dawning, it doesn't look that bright at all.

Read the text of this a...

Audio blog: Calling out the keyboard warriors from 2021-06-10T16:53:33

How would the ubiquitous #KeyboardWarriors handle themselves in the real world? Not very well, we wager.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Bogotá's Santandercito, keeping the satiated dullness at bay from 2021-06-03T16:09:23

Life in #BarrioSantandercito in the north of #Bogotá is seldom dull. Wrong Way's biggest issue is, as always, the lodgings — the location is fine, for now.

Read the text of this audio blo...

Audio blog: The Colombian compromise from 2021-05-26T12:39:24

The Colombian ability to find a workable-of-sorts solution when facing significant challenges is being put to the test during these current protests.

Read the text of this audio blog at <...

Audio blog: The quieter side to Bogotá from 2021-05-19T17:40:18

While being stuck in #Bogotá for over 15 months might seem like torture, there are some more relaxed parts of the city to help keep one sane.

To read the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Audio blog: Colombia — a system failure from 2021-05-12T17:04:50

#Colombia's under-pressure President Iván Duque could put his unpopularity to the only test that matters by calling an election — if the country had a parliamentary system in place that is.
...

Audio blog: Colombia, between a rock and a hard place from 2021-05-06T22:16:31

As violent protests continue in Colombia, meaningfully quelling the unrest is a major challenge for all involved. There is no quick-fix solution.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: The case against covid vaccine passports from 2021-05-05T13:09:47

Due to the scarcity of #vaccines & the ethical need to inoculate, globally speaking, those more vulnerable to severe covid-19 infection, insisting on compulsory vaccine passports for travel ...

Audio blog: A dog's life in Colombia from 2021-04-28T13:12:14

Being a dog in Colombia tends to mean you can live a completely unrestricted life, unlike many of the Homo sapiens who call the country home.

Of course, it's stretching it to expect dogs ...

Along came a virus from 2021-04-21T17:12:20

Perhaps it's a sign that I've entered the final stage before complete madness, but here's the audio version of a poem — if the three short verses can be classed as such — I've penned expressing ...

Audio blog: Hardening the hands and strengthening the mind with an honest day's work from 2021-04-14T19:29:35

A recent return to work of a more physical nature put a bit of a pep in Wrong Way's step. It certainly helped break the pandemic monotony in any case.

To read the text of this blog, go to...

Audio blog: Swimming against the Big Tech tide from 2021-04-07T19:57:05

While technology's taking over of practically every aspect of our lives is a positive development for some, I certainly don't fully embrace it.

Read the text of this blog post at Listen

Audio blog: The price of independence from 2021-03-31T01:31:49

Trying to eke out a living as an independent worker is not to everybody's taste and it comes at a price. It might be just worth it all the same.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Audio blog: Growing up and taking responsibility from 2021-03-25T17:19:10

A state that controls practically every aspect of our lives is resulting in some people never really having to grow up. They know all their rights but very few of their responsibilities.

...

Audio blog: Dealing with a sexed-up society from 2021-03-17T17:39:35

The #sexualisation of society has ramped up considerably in the social media age. There is a pressing need to tone this down.

Read the text of this blog at Listen

Audio blog: Home is where the barrio is from 2021-03-10T17:33:08

My connection with #Bogotá's #BarrioSantandercito has never felt closer yet, so it could be argued, at times it's too close for comfort.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Colombia's Tourism Minister on covid supports, foreign visitors & Medellín's prostitution 'cancer' from 2021-02-23T17:44:15

Colombia's Vice Minister for Tourism, Julián Guerrero Orozco, discusses the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on tourism in the country and the various government measures introduced to help th...

Daniel Coronell on dating Duque's sister, unmasking Uribe, Petro's problems & Vicky Dávila's Semana from 2021-02-10T13:48:53

Renowned Colombian journalist Daniel Coronell joins us for a discussion ranging from the Hispanic influence in US politics and an "exclusive"  revelation of his love affair with President I...

Dr Jay Bhattacharya on covid controls, vaccine priority, failing our elderly & Tony Fauci's myopia from 2021-02-04T18:06:32

Co-author of the controversial Great Barrington Declaration, Dr Jay  Bhattacharya, tells us why he still thinks focused protection is the wisest coronavirus-containment strategy and that er...

Why I won't be rushing to get a covid vaccine (audio blog) from 2021-02-02T18:40:29

As the covid-19 vaccine rollout ramps up (unevenly) across the world, here I explain why I won't be in a panic to get jabbed.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Comunes: Old Farc wanna live like common people (audio blog) from 2021-01-27T20:48:43

It doesn't seem like the Colombian party formerly known as Farc has put a great deal of thought into its new name. Here's our take on it.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Negative utilitarianism in coronavirus times (audio blog) from 2021-01-26T18:40:03

In a world full of challenges and risks, we must try to ensure the least harm for the greatest number. We're not faring that well at it, though.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Trumpism: Why it won't go gentle into that good night (audio blog) from 2021-01-22T20:18

Those hoping that the forces that brought Donald Trump to the US presidency will disappear under a Biden administration are not in tune with reality.

Read the text of this audio at Listen

Audio blog: The Great Reset from 2021-01-20T02:04:46

A supposed 'Great Reset' has occupied many people's thoughts of late. Here are some exact details of what such a measure might actually entail.

Exciting times lie in store!

Read th...

Audio blog: Where's Archie? The case of Bogotá's Cuban cardiologist and the phantom smartphones from 2021-01-15T19:33:17

We all know the saying, 'If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.' Sometimes, alas, we can be convinced otherwise.

Read the text of this audio blog at Listen

Peter Hitchens on Anglican virtues, Japanese wisdom, lockdown lunacy, drug dopes & Venezuela from 2021-01-14T01:36:28

'The whole of the formerly Christian world is now living in the afterglow of Christianity but it doesn't last forever and what follows it will be, to me, quite alarming.'

This is one of...

Audio blog: 2021 — Reasons to be fearful from 2021-01-06T18:49:56

After a difficult 2020 for many, lots of people are looking to the positives for the year ahead. We can't be too optimistic, though.

To read the text of this audio blog, visit Listen

Audio blog: Bogotá's Fraudia López from 2021-01-04T19:06:36

Timing is everything and Bogotá Mayor Claudia López's decision to go on holiday to Costa Rica as a strict lockdown returns to parts of her city is misjudged, to say the least.  

Read...

Audio blog: Christening conservative Colombia from 2020-12-28T19:24:43

Colombians' tendency to be conservative when it comes to naming their offspring could be seen as a representation of the country's all-round conservatism.

Read the text of this audio blog...

Going coca loca down in Colombia with Ocean Malandra from 2020-12-11T13:55:49

Considering the bloody damage the cocaine trade inflicts on Colombia, many locals are...

Audio blog: Wrong Way's Loser and Winner of the Year Awards from 2020-12-09T16:55:53

Wrong Way's Loser and Winner of the Year 2020 are revealed. Exciting times ...

To read the text of this audio blog visit Listen

Audio blog: Western leaders' crimes against humanity from 2020-12-02T12:22:46

Rather than congratulating themselves for their coronavirus containment efforts, many of our leaders should be in the dock for crimes against humanity.

Read the text of this audio blog at...

The Viva Effect in Colombia and Latin America, with Rupert Stebbings from 2020-11-27T18:00

The arrival of low-cost carrier Viva Colombia, now Viva Air, to South America has played a major role in changing the aviation sector in the region.

In this episode, we speak to Rupert ...

Audio blog: Bogotá's cocaine barrios from 2020-11-25T14:35:06

While Colombia is well down the global list of cocaine consumption per capita, the drug does seem particularly popular for certain groups in the capital Bogotá.

Read the text of this audi...

Audio blog: Broadening the horizons, both mentally and physically from 2020-11-19T18:29:42

Should one choose work over the location or the location over the work?

Read the text of this audio at Listen

Inhaling the devil's breath in Colombia: A scopolamine nightmare from 2020-11-18T12:12:20

On a recent holiday to Cartagena, Cali-based Irishman Kevin McCaffrey fell victim to a scopolamine attack (for some background on that drug, see Listen

Audio blog: Living with a destructive parasite from 2020-11-10T20:49:26

While some microorganisms on our speaker's skin are beneficial, this particular one appears to be doing more harm than good. It might be about to disappear, though.

Read the text of this ...

Audio blog: 'Cry me a river?' 'Eh, no thanks' from 2020-11-05T18:01:37

Some people make a habit out of crying. It's not, however, to my taste.

Read the text of this audio at Listen

Audio blog: Christmas, the one thing that arrives early in Colombia from 2020-10-28T20:03:49

Whatever about commercial entities 'selling us' Christmas months in advance, I find it best to wait until at least December to get in the festive spirit. Many Colombian households clearly don't ...

Giovanni Figueroa: 'The absent father in the book could be a representation of the Colombian state' from 2020-10-23T13:20:34

Journalist and writer Giovanni Figueroa joins us to talk about his new book, La Casa de Agua, a coming-of-age novel set in a 1960s Boyacá town which touches on domestic violence, sexism...

Audio blog: Colombia's tough love from 2020-10-21T21:57:35

Wrong Way's "love" for Colombia, while not unconditional, has been obvious these last few years. Colombian officialdom is now severely testing the "relationship".   

Read the te...

Audio blog: Colombia's Migración mess from 2020-10-13T23:00

Migración Colombia appears to be struggling to deal with a backlog of cases after resuming services that had been suspended due to the pandemic. Extending the grace period seems like the best op...

Colombian visa applications in coronavirus times, what you need to know, with Camilo Trujillo from 2020-10-09T18:58:14

While most Colombian media have focused on the high-profile case of influencer Dominic Wolf failing to get residency (see https://youtu.be/AxIikBVyZKA<...