Death, Sex & Money

Archie Matlow, a non-binary writer and audio producer known for their memoir 'Dead Mom Walking,' shares a poignant story about their mother’s unconventional choice to pursue alternative cancer treatments over standard medicine. They discuss the emotional complexities of navigating grief and the enduring bond between a mother and child amid terminal illness. Archie also reflects on how these experiences influenced their understanding of love, loss, and the nuanced struggles families face during health crises.

Guy Branum, a comedian and writer known for "Hacks," and Chanel Miller, author of the acclaimed memoir "Know My Name," dive into the absurdity of humor born from hardship. They share powerful stories of using comedy as a coping mechanism for trauma and societal issues. The conversation shifts to the challenges of writing during crises and the intersection of AI and personal connections. Miller's journey from victim to comedic storyteller highlights the resilience found in laughter, showcasing how humor can lead to healing even in the darkest moments.

Joe Gow, a former chancellor known for his unconventional choice to create porn with his wife Carmen Wilson, candidly shares their journey. They discuss how adult filmmaking played a role in revitalizing their marriage, sparking humor and open communication. The couple delves into the unexpected fallout from their decision, including professional repercussions and familial challenges. They also confront societal misconceptions about pornography, highlighting the importance of self-expression and intimacy in midlife relationships.

In 2020, we made an episode about a listener who cheated on his wife with sex workers and was going through a divorce. He told us the idea to go on the website Seeking Arrangement came from an episode we made about sugar babies. A few weeks ago we called “Ethan” back to see what’s changed in his life since our first conversation, and how he navigates discussions about his past infidelity with his new wife.Death, Sex & Money is now 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 new email address, where you can reach us with voice memos, pep talks, questions, critiques, is deathsexmoney@slate.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anna talks to writer Ada Calhoun, author most recently of the novel Crush, about a married woman succumbing to extramarital temptation (she wrote it while she herself was separating from her husband) and then to comedian Rosebud Baker about her new Netflix comedy special, The Mother Lode, which is all about late-stage pregnancy and early motherhood.This episode was recorded live at On Air Fest in New York City on February 20th. Death, Sex & Money is now 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since the inauguration in January, we’ve been getting emails and voice recordings from people whose lives have been thrust into uncertainty due to changes made by the Trump administration. Many federal workers and people who rely on federal money have lost their jobs. Others feel vulnerable and uncertain. This week, we’ll hear from a range of people who’ve been affected, from an IRS attorney who’s been a target of Elon Musk’s DOGE efforts to an army sergeant who could very likely be forced out of her post because she’s trans. Podcast production by Cameron Drews.Death, Sex & Money is now 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 new email address, where you can reach us with voice memos, pep talks, questions, critiques, is deathsexmoney@slate.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chelsea Devantez, a comedian and TV writer known for her memoir and podcast Glamorous Trash, shares her journey of writing about a past filled with domestic violence. Faced with legal barriers that silenced her, she pivoted to reveal how societal systems perpetuate victim silencing. The conversation also delves into the impact of complex PTSD, the challenges of ambition for women in comedy, and the journey of embracing femininity. Chelsea highlights the importance of storytelling and the complexity of navigating personal trauma in a male-dominated world.

The conversation delves into the evolving perceptions of masculinity amidst societal changes and the aftermath of the #MeToo movement. Personal stories reveal the emotional challenges men face in navigating their identities, from caregiving roles to societal expectations. The impact of digital communities on masculinity and personal reflections on aging provide deeper insights into the complexity of manhood today. Listeners are encouraged to share their own experiences, fostering a community dialogue on modern masculinity.

Kaveh Akbar, an acclaimed poet and writer whose novel 'Martyr!' is a National Book Award finalist, shares his journey from addiction to sobriety. He discusses how poetry became his new obsession and a healing outlet. Kaveh reflects on the transformative power of creative expression and how it reshaped his identity. He humorously recounts his youthful passions, like collecting basketball cards, and emphasizes the importance of embracing new, healthier obsessions in life.

Tasha Adams, the ex-wife of Stewart Rhodes, founder of the Oath Keepers, shares her harrowing journey of survival from an abusive marriage shadowed by extreme politics. She discusses her fear upon learning about Stewart's commutation by Trump, emphasizing the emotional turmoil tied to January 6. Tasha reflects on her isolation during their relationship and her courageous escape with their six kids. Battling amidst the chaos, she finds clarity in her own strength and the hope for a better future as she copes with the complexities of her past.