Death, Sex & Money

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.

Jen Sterger, a former sports media personality and subject of the infamous Brett Favre sexting scandal, and AJ Daulerio, ex-editor of Deadspin, dive deep into the complexities of betrayal and ethical dilemmas in journalism. They discuss the immense personal fallout from viral fame, including relentless online harassment and the struggle to reclaim one's identity. Their journey of healing unfolds as they reconnect through shared experiences and a rescue dog, highlighting the power of forgiveness and the challenges of starting anew after public disgrace.

Chef José Andrés, a celebrated restaurateur and humanitarian, opens up about his journey through fatherhood, discussing his insecurities and the lack of a manual for parenting. He reflects on his rocky upbringing in Spain and how it influences his role as a father to three daughters. José shares humorous anecdotes about seeking online advice for parenting while balancing his demanding culinary career. His heartfelt insights highlight the importance of prioritizing family alongside professional success, revealing the emotional challenges of parenting and business.

Maxine Simone Williams, the founder of WeMetIRL, brings her expertise in in-person dating events to the table. She shares fascinating insights into the charm of offline dating and the enchanting power of serendipitous love. Listeners recount memorable encounters—from asking an Uber driver out to surprising romances at community events. The discussion dives into the frustrations of dating apps, the joyful unpredictability of real-life connections, and the delightful stories that remind us how love can blossom in the most unexpected places.

Isabel Allende, the beloved Spanish-language author, shares her profound journey through grief and resilience. She discusses the impact of her daughter’s death on her writing and how her mother inspired her to keep creating. Allende also explores finding love in her late 70s, sparking a fresh perspective on relationships. The conversation reveals her insights on personal transformation, forgiveness, and the healing power of storytelling, highlighting a life rich with experience and deep connections.