Coming up on Carte Blanche on M-Net & M-Net HD [101], Sunday 12 November 2023 at 19:00.
The Last Train Out
Willie Marais was once a steam train driver born opposite the railway station in Touws River in the Western Cape. Built in 1881, the station was the central hub of the community. Touws River was one of many thriving towns built around an extensive railway network. That all changed in the 1980s when any route deemed uneconomical was simply cut off. Entire communities were drained of their lifeblood, leaving thousands jobless, and the towns began to die. Today, these towns are sad remnants of their former glory, with most inhabitants surviving on state grants, and the tracks leading to these far-flung places are lined with derelict and abandoned sidings. While trucks thunder past, the people left in their dust cling to the hope that, somehow, their towns can be revived.
Producer: Liz Fish
Presenter: Govan Whittles
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The LinkedIn Swindler
He was a man whose financial acumen impressed several hard-nosed businesspeople. Backed by references from a respected lawyer, he was a well-connected broker who could provide funds for big international projects… At least, that’s what he claimed on his LinkedIn profile. Using the business networking platform to contact brokers who acted on his behalf to secure clients, he lured people in with the promise of millions in investment funds. The only catch was the payment of an underwriting fee, refundable once the deal was finalised. But the refunds never materialised. The so-called LinkedIn Swindler duped 39 clients from around the world, vanishing with their money and unfulfilled promises of investment.
Producer: Catherine Rice
Presenter: Erin Bates
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A Big Life
A once healthy and happy child who suddenly fell into the depths of depression and attempted suicide… Josh Crickmay’s story could have ended quite differently were it not for the unique and life-altering intervention of his parents, Kathy and Andrew. When their son – just 15 – became violent and endured bouts of severe depression, eventually dropping out of school, they sought medical help. After a year filled with hospital visits, Josh was diagnosed with high-functioning autism, a condition on the spectrum that affects the ability to communicate and socialise. The diagnosis was the turning point for Kathy and Andrew who decided that saving their only child meant taking drastic steps as a family. They quit their jobs to take him on a “Birding Big Year”: 365 days to spot and document 1000 species of birds. And so began a year of adventure that would eventually save Josh and provide him with much-needed purpose.
Producer: Stenette Groskopf
Presenter: Claire Mawisa
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Carte Blanche: The Podcast
Unique stories. Unique perspectives. Carte Blanche: The Podcast delves beneath the headlines into South African and global issues, bringing you the stories that matter. Like what you hear? Drop us a rating or review.
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Please note Carte Blanche line-ups are subject to change.
