Death, Sex & Money

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.

Adrianna Adams, a Certified Financial Planner at Domain Money, joins for a deep dive into the emotional and psychological aspects of retirement planning. She emphasizes how financial advice is more about understanding client needs than just crunching numbers. Adrianna shares insights on the importance of balancing short-term spending with long-term security, and why frequent checks on 401(k)s can heighten anxiety. Discover how conscious habits and effective communication are key to preparing for a financially secure retirement.

In this captivating conversation, Ego Nwodim, a talented comedian and actor recognized for her time on Saturday Night Live, reflects on her journey of leaving the show and embracing new freedoms. She discusses the importance of trusting her instincts and body signals when making significant life choices. Ego also delves into her upbringing in a hardworking family, her post-show cake-eating rituals, and the impact of her father's absence, which inspired her podcast, Thanks, Dad. Prepare for laughter and poignant insights!

The discussion dives into the emotional and financial turmoil of deciding to have children. Felix, childless by choice, contrasts with Anna, a mother navigating the costs of parenting. They tackle budgeting for kids, unexpected expenses, and the potential long-term benefits of raising children. The conversation shifts to how adult children can support aging parents and the societal pressures surrounding procreation. Ultimately, they explore the intricate balance between personal freedom and legacy in a world where financial decisions intertwine deeply with familial choices.

Claudia Morales, the girlfriend of progressive activist Ryan Carson, shares her harrowing experience of witnessing Ryan's 2023 murder in Brooklyn. She recounts her frantic attempts to save him and the shocking wave of online harassment she faced afterward. Claudia sheds light on how social media distorted their identities, mischaracterizing her and Ryan in the culture wars. She reflects on their deep connection formed through music and activism, and discusses the unexpected grief rituals created by their community. Her story highlights the painful intersection of personal loss and public scrutiny.

Christine Brown Woolley, a former sister wife from the reality show Sister Wives, shares her transformative journey from polygamy to monogamy. She discusses her childhood in a polygamist community and the challenges of navigating family dynamics with multiple wives. Christine reflects on how reality TV forced her family to confront issues and reveals her breaking point for leaving. Now happily remarried, she emphasizes the importance of respect and choice in relationships, leaving listeners inspired by her quest for autonomy and love.

Nick Offerman, actor and woodworking enthusiast, discusses his role in the film Sovereign, where he plays an extremist. He explores the complexities of portraying controversial characters and the impact of misinformation on ordinary people. Offerman shares his joy in teaching woodworking skills, emphasizing their importance for community connection. He reflects on the profound influence of poet Wendell Berry on his values and his efforts to balance a media career with agrarian principles through initiatives like the Offerman Woodshop.

Peter van Agtmael, a documentary and war photographer, discusses the emotional toll and ethical complexities of his work, particularly in war zones. He shares how childhood stories inspired him to photograph conflict and reflects on the misconceptions he had about the power of images to enact change. Peter also reveals the impact of losing colleagues on his perspective and speaks candidly about the challenges of documenting both veterans and controversial groups like the KKK. He sheds light on how becoming a parent has reshaped his approach to risk and storytelling.

Brendan Liao, a recent Jeopardy! champion and early-career job seeker, shares his unique experience listing himself as a 'stay-at-home son' and the challenges of job hunting post-graduation. Nitish Pahwa, a business writer, unpacks the structural hurdles in today's job market, highlighting automation's role in recruitment. Melanie Ehrenkranz, a writer focusing on layoffs, discusses the emotional turmoil and financial strain of losing a job and how many reevaluate their relationship with work afterward. Tune in for a blend of personal stories and insightful analysis!

Nick Dothée, a writer and actor who has battled addiction and undergone multiple cosmetic surgeries, shares his poignant journey. He opens up about how these surgeries strained his marriage and forced him to confront deeper emotional issues. Listeners discuss their own beauty interventions, revealing the fine line between self-improvement and vanity. From outrageous surgery expenses to personal recoveries, the conversations touch on self-worth, societal pressures, and the search for acceptance beyond physical appearance.