New York Times bestselling author Emily Nagoski discusses strategies for maintaining passion in long-term relationships, distinctions between desire and pleasure, impact of illness on intimacy, challenging societal norms through sex education, and the dual control mechanism in sexual response.

Writer Amy Lin discusses the science of grief and coping with young widowhood in her memoir 'Here After'. Topics include childhood eccentricities and storytelling abilities, a blind date mix-up, navigating grief and support, healing in the hospital, the complexity of grief, the interplay of grief and narrative structure, and finding courage in unexpected moments.

Distinguished historian, award-winning author, and artist Nell Irvin Painter discusses her unique perspective on American history, intertwining history and art in her life. She reflects on challenges in academia, human tendencies of cruelty and kindness, and overcoming discouragement in artistic pursuits. The conversation also explores issues of otherness, intersectionality, and upcoming book projects.

David Remnick, Editor of The New Yorker, shares insights on his journalism journey, experiences in Russia, and the impact of demagoguery on news credibility. From Yeshiva mishaps to interviewing icons, his reflections on writing, music as escapism, and the evolving media landscape make for an engaging discussion.

Renowned writer, Lucy Sante, shares her late-in-life gender transition journey and new memoir. She discusses her admiration for the American Thesaurus of Slang, struggles with questioning her gender identity, and reflections on childhood experiences. Lucy also explores the influence of a poetry class on her teaching and writing style, encounters with artists, and pivotal mentors. She delves into challenges with success, feelings of inadequacy, and the impact of self-acceptance on her life.

David Byrne, a versatile artist known for his diverse work, discusses his creative process blending art, technology, and perspective. Topics include the Talking Heads' unique sound, the impact of music technology evolution, instrument swapping in the studio, and adapting to new technologies in music production.

From acclaimed pop spectacles to Super Bowl halftime shows to the Closing Ceremony for the London Olympics, artist and stage designer Es Devlin has transformed large-scale performative sculptures and environments transporting audiences. She joins to discuss two decades of design spanning opera, theatre, and stadium extravaganzas.

Aparna Nancherla, a comedian, shares her experiences with impostor syndrome and how she copes with self-doubt. She discusses creating a resume listing failures, making up words to gauge reactions, and not putting too much value on success. The podcast explores societal perceptions of impostor syndrome and the importance of embracing failure for personal growth.

The Critic's Daughter is an exquisitely rendered portrait of a unique father-daughter relationship and a moving revelation of family and identity. Author Priscilla Gilman joins to talk about her memoir, a candid account of loss and grief, forgiveness, and love.

Carrie Brownstein discusses her journey from Sleater-Kinney to Portlandia, reflecting on punk influences, stage persona evolution, and coping with grief through music. Explore her artistic partnerships, unconventional hobbies, and the importance of embracing restlessness in creativity.