Death, Sex & Money

In this engaging episode, comedian Phoebe Robinson, known for her work on Two Dope Queens, performs a hilarious reading of 'Cat Owner,' which explores the awkward dynamics of dating and pet ownership. Stage actor Peter Francis James brings Oscar Wilde's 'The Model Millionaire' to life, highlighting generosity and unexpected wealth. Acclaimed actress Amy Ryan reads 'You Again,' a touching story about revisiting past moments in love and the beauty of improvisation. Each story brilliantly weaves together themes of death, sex, and money.

Gwen, a flower-farm owner from Southwest Virginia, shares a poignant voice memo about her mother's decision to cut her sister from the will, revealing the turbulence within her family. Ergian Joshi, a graduate student and activist, discusses his awakening to family wealth and his commitment to redistributing his inherited money through Resource Generation. Both guests explore the emotional weight of inheritance and how family dynamics shift when money and legacy are at stake.

Screenwriter Russell Hainline, known for his work on Hallmark and Netflix holiday rom-coms like Hot Frosty, shares his surprising journey from horror to heartwarming films. He discusses how he navigates the challenges of writing within budget constraints while creating steamy moments in chaste narratives. Russell argues for the value of earnestness in storytelling, emphasizing the emotional comfort these movies provide. He also reflects on the themes of kindness and aspiration that define his romantic tales set in small-town fantasy.

Samin Nosrat, chef and author of the acclaimed book Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, shares her journey through grief and self-discovery. She explores the pressures of fame after her first book and how it led her to seek support from friends. Samin humorously recounts her 'chef 911' Thanksgiving texts and discusses the joys of new romance. She reflects on the importance of family trauma, hospitality rituals, and the gradual healing found in simple gatherings, showcasing how cooking and community can foster genuine connection.

In this captivating conversation, Raymond Antrobus, a British poet and author, shares his journey growing up with deafness. He candidly discusses the challenges he faced with hearing aids and the overwhelming nature of sounds they introduce. Raymond reflects on his bilingual experiences between Deaf and hearing worlds, the anxiety of misunderstandings, and how his past shapes his poetry. He also critiques traditional anger management techniques, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes in emotional well-being.

Sarah Amos, a media producer and journalist, reflects on her unconventional childhood as the daughter of Wally 'Famous' Amos, the cookie legend. She shares candid stories about growing up in a celebrity-filled mansion, grappling with her father's charm and financial missteps. The conversation dives into the complexities of family legacy, how Wally’s pursuit of fame strained their relationship, and the lessons Sarah learned about money. At its core, this exploration blends nostalgia with a quest for understanding their complicated history.

In this enlightening discussion, Lynne Gerber, a religious studies scholar and host of 'When We All Get to Heaven,' shares her journey into the Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) and its vital role during the AIDS crisis. She recounts discovering archival cassette tapes hidden under the church floor, revealing poignant sermons and songs that fostered community. Lynne highlights the transformative experience of MCC services, Troy Perry's charismatic leadership, and the church's efforts to create safe spaces for queer individuals, emphasizing its lifesaving support during difficult times.

Tig Notaro, an acclaimed comedian and filmmaker, shares her journey creating the documentary 'Come See Me in the Good Light' about poet Andrea Gibson, who battled ovarian cancer. Tig reveals how their creative connection blossomed and the deepening of friendship amid grief. She humorously recounts the Sundance experience in their cozy 'Snuggle Down' Airbnb. They discuss finding laughter in dark moments and the poignant decision-making around Andrea's final days, capturing the blend of heartbreak and humor that defined their relationship.

Adrianna Adams, a financial advisor at Domain Money, joins to discuss the complex world of intergenerational finance. She emphasizes the importance of setting personal financial goals before assisting aging parents. Adrianna clarifies how to navigate parental needs and delves into creative solutions like property ownership for emotional security. The conversation also touches on the often murky waters of inheritances and planning for cognitive decline without burdening children. It's a practical yet emotional exploration of family finances.

Carol Bell, mother of the late country musician Luke Bell, shares her journey of raising him through his struggle with mental illness. She discusses the balancing act between his charismatic swagger and paranoid delusions. Carol reflects on the impact of Luke's psychosis on their relationship and his music career, including the challenges of staying connected amidst his wandering lifestyle. After Luke's untimely death, she became a licensed therapist, aiming to honor his legacy through the Luke Bell Memorial Affordable Counseling Program.