This week, Dj and Reg uncover how cognitive maps, colonial cartography, and the Mercator projection have shaped the way we see the world, and ourselves. From the distorted size of Africa to the African Union's push for the Equal Earth map, they explore how maps influence power, identity, culture, and storytelling.
Dj breaks down stats on Eurocentric mapping and self-perception, while Reg shares his love for fantasy maps and cartography. The episode also veers into the future with a hilarious debate about driverless cars and trust in machine navigation.
If you've ever wondered how borders are drawn, who gets to tell the story of a continent, or why Africa looks "smaller" on classroom maps—this conversation is for you.
Topics We Cover:
- Why maps are political, not neutral
- Mercator vs Equal Earth (and why it matters)
- The power of borders, perspective, and representation
- How geography education impacts identity
- Tech, navigation, and driverless futures
Listen. Reflect. Re-map your world.
Resources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0272494403000367
https://au.int/en/member_states/countryprofiles2
https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/african-union-urges-adoption-world-map-showing-continents-true-size-2025-08-14/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVqkFjZHQ4Q
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/stbuHDhTG5Q
You can also listen to Mama, We Made It! with Dj & Reg on:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mama-we-made-it-with-dj-reg/id1809918939
Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/20eLaINMng2ISxB3TH6hED?si=ac880381abfd406f
