In this episode, the podcast introduces 'Death, Sex & Money', a show about taboo topics. It features the story of Adonis Williams, a NYC mover, and his experiences with people in transition. They also discuss financial struggles, assisting victims of domestic violence, and retirement plans.
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Quick takeaways
Adonis Williams provides free moving services for survivors of domestic violence, offering them a safe and supportive environment during their transition.
Adonis shares insights into the challenges of living in New York City, including rising rental costs and the need for individuals to share apartments.
Deep dives
Adonis Williams: The Mover Who Helps Domestic Violence Survivors
Adonis Williams is a professional mover in New York City who offers his services for free to help survivors of domestic violence escape unsafe situations. Adonis started his business after encountering a woman and her children in need, and since then, he has been providing this essential service for over 20 years. He places ads and distributes cards to shelters, and on weekends, he moves individuals and families who are desperate to leave abusive households. Adonis offers a listening ear and a safe space, often becoming an empathetic listener and sounding board for his clients, as they share their stories and seek reassurances during the moves.
Daily Challenges of a New York City Mover
Adonis Williams, a professional mover in New York City, shares his observations on the challenges of living and working in the city. He highlights the rising rental costs, making it difficult for anyone, including lawyers, doctors, and advertising professionals, to afford living alone. Adonis explains that the exorbitant rent prices force people to share apartments and split costs. He also discusses how he encounters individuals going through various life transitions, in both positive and negative situations, such as divorces. Adonis plays a comforting and supportive role for his clients, offering a listening ear and non-judgmental support during these transitional periods.
The Origins of Adonis Williams' Moving Business
Adonis Williams' journey as a mover began when he purchased a van in 2000 due to financial constraints. He initially used the van for personal transportation, but after encountering a woman and her children in need of help, he offered his moving services for free. Adonis recognized the lack of support and resources for individuals leaving abusive situations. For the first five years, he didn't charge for his services and focused on helping survivors of domestic violence. Later, he transitioned to running his moving business full-time, acknowledging that he could earn more money in this field than in his previous job at airport security.
Adonis' Moving Business: A Personal Connection
Adonis Williams' personal experiences and family history with domestic violence have informed his work as a mover. Adonis grew up witnessing the abusive dynamics between his parents. He describes how he, along with his siblings, ultimately intervened to remove his mother from an abusive situation. These experiences, combined with his own commitment to living a life free from violence and substance abuse, have shaped Adonis into a compassionate and empathetic mover. He develops deep connections with his clients, opens up about his own mistakes and lessons learned, and creates a safe space for individuals to share their vulnerabilities during the moving process.
Heavyweight will be back next week with a brand new episode. But today, we’re excited to introduce you to Death, Sex & Money — a show hosted by Anna Sale about the topics that we tend to shy away from in polite conversation. The story we have for you is about a New York City mover named Adonis Williams. Over the past 20 years, Adonis has moved thousands of people in and out of the city. With each move, he catches a glimpse of a life in transition.