Podcast Summary: And That's Why We Drink – Episode E411: A Chef Boyardee Vape Situation and a Sheepless Shephard
Release Date: December 22, 2024
Hosts: Christine Schiefer and Em Schulz
I. A Chef Boyardee Vape Situation
In the early segment of episode E411, Christine and Em delve into their humorous yet relatable struggles with vape devices. Em introduces the "Vape Situation" by sharing a personal anecdote:
Em [01:37]: "I drank because I thought ahead and before we recorded, I got me a little smoothie. And by a little, I mean two big ones."
Christine quickly transitions the conversation to their experiences with vape sticks rolling away, likening the persistent misplacement to a playful chaos reminiscent of a Chef Boyardee toy:
Christine [15:02]: "I lift all my blankets looking for it, because it rolled away."
Em echoes this sentiment, humorously comparing the vape stick's tendency to roam free to a Chef Boyardee relationship:
Em [15:11]: "I feel like you and that vape stick have, like, a Chef Boyardee relationship where it's just gonna roll down the hill into your house if you ever lose." (15:11)
This segment highlights the hosts' ability to find humor in everyday mishaps, setting a lighthearted tone for the episode.
II. The Sheepless Shephard: The Legend of Hans Trapp
Transitioning seamlessly, Em announces the main feature of the episode—a deep dive into a chilling Christmas legend:
Em [18:24]: "This is our Christmas episode." (18:24)
The hosts introduce Hans Trapp, a folkloric figure rooted in medieval German lore. Em elaborates on Hans Trapp’s backstory, presenting him as a deranged figure with dark intentions:
Em [26:00]: "Here's the story of Hans Trapp, who is a Christmas character." (26:00)
Christine adds layers to the legend, discussing Hans Trapp’s conflict with the Church and his eventual transformation into a malevolent entity:
Christine [33:06]: "And he pissing everyone off. It's like, I'm gonna just go piss off anyone who can make any rule they want." (33:06)
The conversation delves into the supernatural aspects of Hans Trapp, comparing him to other dark Christmas figures like Krampus. They explore various versions of his story, including his motivations, actions, and the divine intervention that ultimately leads to his downfall:
Em [38:04]: "And then he became a cannibal scarecrow." (38:04)
Christine [57:17]: "He now is like sort of the Leonardo DiCaprio. Like the catch me if you can." (57:17)
Through animated dialogue, the hosts weave a captivating narrative around Hans Trapp, blending historical elements with modern interpretations. They discuss how his legend serves as a cautionary tale during the festive season, emphasizing themes of good versus evil and the consequences of defying authority.
III. True Crime Segment: The Michelle Martinko Cold Case
In a compelling true crime segment, Em introduces the cold case of Michelle Martinko, offering listeners a gripping narrative that intertwines with the episode's themes of mystery and the supernatural:
Em [71:33]: "I brought the goods this time." (71:33)
Background and Disappearance
Michelle Martinko, born in 1961 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was a charismatic 18-year-old with a promising future. On December 19, 1979, after attending a high school choir banquet, Michelle went to Westdale Mall for Christmas shopping and to pick up a winter coat her mother had placed on layaway. Her disappearance sparked immediate concern:
Christine [82:35]: "She was 18. And, you know, when you're, like, 18, and you finally maybe have, like, a job or a little bit of cash, and you're like, I can buy Christmas presents for people." (82:35)
The Investigation
Early in the investigation, suspicion fell on two primary individuals:
- Kurt Thomas: A friend who had seen Michelle at the mall the night of her disappearance.
- Andy Seidel: Michelle's abusive ex-boyfriend, whose obsessive behavior post-breakup made him a prime suspect.
Despite initial suspicions, both were eventually exonerated:
Christine [95:31]: "And Andy. They said he didn't know her." (95:31)
Breakthrough with DNA Evidence
Decades later, advancements in DNA technology provided a breakthrough. In 2018, using genetic genealogy techniques akin to those that solved the Golden State Killer case, investigators re-examined evidence from Michelle's car and clothing. This led to the identification and conviction of Jerry Burns, a long-overlooked individual connected to the crime scene.
Em [101:05]: "Oh my God." (101:05)
Resolution and Aftermath
Jerry Burns was convicted in 2020, bringing closure to a case that had haunted Michelle's family for 41 years. Despite being a person of interest for years, the lack of physical evidence initially hindered the investigation. The eventual conviction underscored the importance of technological advancements in solving cold cases.
Em [95:50]: "I don't think that was him. Which is like, I have nothing to go on." (95:50)
Impact on Michelle’s Family:
The resolution of the case provided a sense of closure for Michelle's family, although it remained a complex and emotionally taxing ordeal:
Christine [102:03]: "But Michelle's family believes that Jerry was the killer." (102:03)
Em [114:06]: "It's my financial wellness, which feels more important than ever." (114:06)
Reflection:
Throughout the segment, Christine and Em reflect on the emotional toll of cold cases and the relentless pursuit of justice, highlighting the interplay between human perseverance and technological progress.
IV. Interwoven Paranormal Experiences
Throughout the episode, Christine shares personal paranormal experiences that tie back into the overarching themes of mystery and the unknown:
Christine [05:49]: "I've got it handled. Go back to bed." (05:49)
Christine [44:23]: "Do you ever talk to Harry out loud? No. Maybe once or twice ever, but not really." (44:23)
These anecdotes serve to enrich the narrative, blending true crime with paranormal storytelling, and providing a multifaceted listening experience.
V. Conclusion
Episode E411 of "And That's Why We Drink" masterfully intertwines humor, folklore, and true crime, offering listeners an engaging and thought-provoking journey. From the lighthearted "Vape Situation" to the eerie legend of Hans Trapp and the gripping resolution of the Michelle Martinko cold case, Christine and Em deliver a comprehensive exploration of themes that resonate deeply with their audience.
Notable Quotes:
- Em [18:24]: "This is our Christmas episode."
- Em [26:00]: "Here's the story of Hans Trapp, who is a Christmas character."
- Christine [57:17]: "He now is like sort of the Leonardo DiCaprio. Like the catch me if you can."
- Em [71:33]: "I brought the goods this time."
This episode exemplifies the podcast's unique blend of chilling tales and real-life mysteries, all shared over a comforting glass of wine or a nostalgic milkshake. Whether you’re a fan of true crime, the paranormal, or simply enjoy the hosts' dynamic chemistry, E411 delivers a memorable experience that underscores why listeners keep coming back—because the world's a scary place, and that's why we drink.