Death, Sex & Money

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.

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.