Death, Sex & Money

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.

Ray Christian, a 20-year Army veteran and skilled storyteller, shares his compelling journey from a segregated childhood in Richmond to military service. He reflects on the complex motivations for enlistment during peacetime and the bonds forged amidst challenges. Ray discusses the psychological hurdles he faced transitioning back to civilian life, including grappling with PTSD. His anecdotes illuminate the paradoxes of military identity and the transformative power of camaraderie, all while navigating the path to academia and storytelling.

Alexandra Paul, known for her iconic role on Baywatch and the horror classic Christine, shares her harrowing experience of being stalked for over a decade. She dives into the emotional toll of constant harassment, the complexities of stalking laws, and the impact on her family. Paul highlights the intersection of fame and personal safety, discussing the vital need for boundaries. With valuable lessons learned, she offers hope to others facing similar predicaments, navigating the challenging landscape of celebrity culture and mental health.

Allison Williams, known for her roles in 'Girls' and 'Get Out', delivers a hilarious and introspective talk at the Tribeca Festival. She discusses the impact of Botox on her acting and the evolution of her character Marnie, who Gen Z surprisingly sympathizes with more than millennials. Joined by Gen Z hosts Amelia and Evan, they explore themes of privilege, nostalgia, and the societal pressures surrounding beauty standards. With anecdotes about parenting, friendship, and cooking fiascos, the conversation captures the unique generational perspectives around growing up.

A summer of love and loss unfolds as eight daters share their transformative experiences. From first-time encounters to the sting of ghosting, their stories capture the highs and lows of modern romance. One listener reflects on finding new love while grieving a lost partner, highlighting the emotional complexities of intimacy. Another discusses navigating polyamory amidst unexpected emotional challenges. Together, these stories encapsulate the evolving landscape of relationships and the quest for meaningful connections.

In this engaging discussion, financial coach Bethel Habte shares practical insights on managing money during turbulent times. Political economist Mark Blythe examines the broader economic implications of inflation, providing listeners with context for their financial decisions. Meanwhile, life coach Rebecca Auman explores the intersection of finance and intuition, encouraging listeners to reflect on their values. Together, they tackle everything from pet ownership costs to career uncertainties, offering advice that resonates in these unpredictable times.

Celine Song, the director of 'Past Lives,' reflects on her journey from matchmaking to filmmaking. She shares how her matchmaking experiences inspired her new movie, 'Materialists,' starring stars like Dakota Johnson and Chris Evans. The discussion dives into the interplay between love and financial dynamics in modern dating, revealing how societal pressures shape relationships. Celine also explores themes of beauty, wealth, and the complexities artists face, underscoring the intricate connections between personal and professional lives in the creative world.