Filling the Sink

Cillian Shields, a Catalan News journalist, dives into the history and cultural significance of the Catalan language. Together with Lócan Doherty, they discuss the current resurgence of Catalan and its evolution in the digital age. Lócan shares his humorous journey of learning Catalan as a South African mathematician, emphasizing the connections it fosters within the local culture. The challenges of accessing language classes amid growing interest are also explored, alongside a delightful Catalan phrase that adds a whimsical touch to the conversation.

On October 29, an isolated upper-level depression affected Spain, causing heavy rain and floods.  One month on, we discuss the tragedy, explore whether Catalonia is prepared for this kind of meteorological phenomenon and question why these slow-moving storm systems are becoming increasingly frequent. Catalan News journalist Oriol Escudé talks to scientists and climate change experts David Pino and Davide Faranda, who explain the climatological conditions of the Spanish Mediterranean basin. We learn how human activity is affecting the intensity of storms and find out why construction in flood prone areas is still permitted. To learn more about how Catalonia handles extreme weather events, we visit the Protecció Civil control and crisis centers and meet the Deputy Director of Operations, Imma Solé. Host Beth Cohen unveils Catalonia’s long history of flood episodes and analyzes current drought statistics to discover that every cloud has a silver lining. This week’s Catalan phrase is “Qui sembra vents, recull tempestats” - in English, “He who sows winds, reaps storms”. It can perhaps serve as a warning that, if we continue to mistreat the planet and climate change advances, we can expect more storms like this in future. 

In this engaging discussion, Cillian Shields, a Catalan News journalist, sheds light on the rampant housing crisis in Barcelona. He reveals how relentless rent hikes and exploitative contracts are displacing locals. Cillian shares insights from tenants' struggles, while exploring the implications of new rent cap laws and the paradox of reduced rents paired with dwindling housing availability. The episode highlights grassroots protests and the rising tide of activism as residents combat the dual threats of tourism and luxury real estate-induced gentrification.

Join Catalan News journalist Oriol Escudé as he delves into Barcelona's bustling brunch scene, where over 300 spots cater to the trend. He chats with Billy Thorens, owner of a popular brunch chain, uncovering the secret to its success. Meanwhile, Beth Cohen investigates the revival of 'esmorzar de forquilla', a traditional Catalan breakfast. With guest Albert Molins, they debate the cultural clash between brunch and this hearty meal, sharing personal favorites and discussing the future of local cuisine.

Guifré Jordan, a journalist from Catalan News Agency, provides a compelling overview of the events leading to the 2014 Catalan self-determination vote, including early protests and unofficial referendums. Gerard Escaich Folch, journalist and head of Catalan News, highlights influential pro-independence leaders and the varying reactions from the Spanish government. The discussion also features personal stories from voters and contrasts the ambitions for independence with the complexities that have unfolded in the decade since.

Magí Farré, an expert in cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals, and Luis Comas, co-founder of Canamedics, share insights on the medical uses of cannabis. They discuss its potential to relieve chronic pain, cancer symptoms, and multiple sclerosis. Farré delves into how legal changes could improve patient access, while Comas highlights the challenges of cultivating licensed medicinal cannabis in Catalonia. Together, they reflect on the evolving landscape of cannabis legislation and its therapeutic benefits, shedding light on a groundbreaking industry.

Adrià Terol, a cultural manager of Barcelona cemeteries and an expert on funeral rituals, sheds light on Catalonia's unique traditions surrounding All Saints Day. He discusses the intriguing history of Barcelona's Poblenou and Montjuïc cemeteries, revealing how niche tombs emerged as egalitarian solutions. The conversation highlights the artistry of gravestones, like the iconic Kiss of Death, and explores the Museum of Funeral Carriages, showcasing the evolution of burial practices. Local customs, along with a playful Catalan phrase, add a festive twist to this reflective dialogue.

October 19th is the World Health Organization’s International Day Against Breast Cancer. In 2022, more than 2 million people worldwide were diagnosed with the illness, while the number of diagnoses here in Catalonia last year was around 5,400. Although breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed type of cancer in women, it has one of the highest survival rates, which have improved year after year. On the 200th episode of Filling the Sink, Oriol Escudé Macià joins Lea Beliaeva Bander to talk about some of the realities and myths surrounding breast cancer and who is at risk of getting it. We hear personal stories from breast cancer survivors Mònica Roldán, Grindel Darwich, and Anna Bacardit, as well as from campaigners Alba Martínez and Aurora Fernàndez, president of the association Ginkgo. We highlight the importance of early detection and discuss both private and public healthcare options and hear from oncologists about their biggest challenges. This week’s Catalan phrase is “de mica en mica s’ompla la pica”, which translates to “little by little the sink fills up,” and is the phrase behind the name of the podcast, and means “one step at a time.” Get in touch with the podcast team: fillingthesink@acn.cat

Cillian Shields, an expert on Catalonia's history, dives into the 1971 SEAT strike, a crucial event during the Franco dictatorship. He discusses how the SEAT 600 became a symbol of democratized driving in Spain. The conversation reveals the intense clash between workers fighting for their rights and police, culminating in the tragic death of Antonio Ruiz. Personal accounts from strike organizers shed light on the resilience and bravery of workers who sparked significant changes in labor rights amidst repression. A powerful reminder of how history is made.

Gerard Escaich Folch, a member of the Catalan News team, shares his insights from the Barcelona International Community Day, where he helped newcomers connect with the city. He discusses how expectations of life in Barcelona often clash with reality—from cultural differences and grocery shopping to navigating the chaotic local housing market. The event highlights the rich tapestry of personal stories from the international community, blending humor with the challenges of adapting to Catalan life and the warmth of welcoming connections.