Death, Sex & Money

Jay Duplass, acclaimed filmmaker known for his collaborations with his brother Mark, shares his bold move towards solo projects. He dives into the emotional journey of leaving behind a long partnership, influenced by tricky union rules and Mark's rising career. Jay talks about his new indie rom-com, 'The Baltimoreons,' co-written with comedian Michael Strassner. He also explores the challenges of forging his artistic identity while navigating the industry's evolving landscape, touching on resilience and the complexities of sibling dynamics in filmmaking.

Tamara Yajia, a comedy writer and author of the memoir *Cry for Me Argentina: My Life as a Failed Child Star*, shares her hilariously chaotic upbringing in a loud and crass family. She reflects on navigating the complexities of a sex-positive environment and her experiences growing up in Argentina and the U.S. Tamara discusses parenting strategies today, the trials of being a child performer, and her celebrity encounters that shaped her journey. The blend of humor and heart makes her story both relatable and entertaining.

They say moving is one of life’s most stressful events. We asked for your stories about why you’re doing it. Plus, Heidi Reinberg was priced out of a Brooklyn neighborhood she loved. Where did she end up?  Death, Sex & Money is produced by Slate! To support us and our colleagues, please sign up for our membership program, Slate Plus. Members get ad-free podcasts, bonus content on lots of Slate shows, and full access to all the articles on Slate.com. Sign up today at slate.com/dsmplus. And if you’re new to the show, welcome. We’re so glad you’re here. Find us and follow us on Instagram and you can find Anna’s newsletter at annasale.substack.com. Our email address, where you can reach us with voice memos, pep talks, questions, critiques, is deathsexmoney@slate.com.  __ Get 50% Off Monarch Money, the all-in-one financial tool at www.monarchmoney.com/DSM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Casey Johnston, author of 'Physical Education' and writer of the Substack newsletter, She's a Beast, shares her inspiring journey from restrictive dieting to the empowering world of weightlifting. She discusses her childhood struggles with body image and societal expectations, and how discovering weightlifting transformed her emotional and physical well-being. Johnston highlights the importance of self-acceptance, the joy of community support, and redefined perceptions of fitness, challenging the constraints of diet culture with a newfound appreciation for strength.

Adonis Williams, a mover in New York City for over two decades, shares insights from his unique job helping people transition their lives. He reflects on the joys and sorrows of moving, from happy new beginnings to heart-wrenching farewells. Adonis reveals how he became a trusted confidant for many clients, addressing their personal struggles during relocation. He also discusses his altruistic approach, having worked for years without charging, and the impact of New York City's housing crisis on his clients' narratives.

Evan Osnos, a Staff Writer at The New Yorker and author of 'The Haves and Have-Yachts', shares insights from his deep dive into the lives of the ultra-rich. He discusses their values, quirky fears, and the social dynamics of wealth, especially the duality of yachts as symbols of luxury and isolation. Osnos also reflects on the ethical dilemmas faced by wealthy families and their complicated relationships with societal responsibility, fame, and privacy. Get ready for a fascinating look at the mindset of the affluent elite.

N.D. Austin, an innovative experience designer who grew up in a doomsday cult, shares how his unique background fuels his passion for transformative rituals. He recounts creating a heartfelt experience for Tony Hawk, involving a homemade train that helped mend friendships. The conversation dives into the power of storytelling and creativity in making personal and emotional moments memorable. They also explore the role of generosity in overcoming struggles, highlighting how these experiences foster meaningful connections.

Seth Rogen, the talented actor, writer, and producer behind hits like Superbad, opens up about Hollywood's chaotic balance of art and commerce. He candidly discusses the influences of his lifelong friendships on his artistry and the humor found within the industry's dysfunction. Rogen reflects on the challenges faced while creating his Emmy-nominated series, The Studio, revealing the emotional toll of navigating creativity and commercial demands. With anecdotes from his early comedic ventures, he emphasizes the importance of resilience and empathy in storytelling.

Brendan Paul, co-owner of the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas and an Elvis impersonator, shares his experiences marrying up to 75 couples a day. He dives into the kitschy charm of Vegas weddings while reflecting on the loneliness often felt by iconic figures like Elvis. Brendan discusses the emotional intricacies of officiating love ceremonies, even while grappling with his own life challenges. His unique perspective blends humor, nostalgia, and a touch of bittersweet reality, making each wedding a special moment for the couples involved.

Silvia Camila Muñoz, an immigrant from Peru, shares her harrowing experience of being detained by ICE after returning from her honeymoon in Puerto Rico. She reflects on her journey from coming to the U.S. on a work visa to the emotional and logistical challenges of her 49-day detention. With her husband, Bradley Bartell, they discuss how this ordeal impacted their relationship and the strength of their community ties amidst the chaos of immigration policies. Their story shines a light on love, resilience, and the complexities faced by immigrants.