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Jonathan Goldstein, host of Heavyweight, engages listeners with his unique storytelling. He reflects on the significance of a beloved turtleneck and how it ties to podcasting. The conversation takes a deeper turn as he shares a memorable dinner in Jerusalem, revealing unexpected friendships and romantic sparks between journalists. Delving into family dynamics, Goldstein speaks about navigating estrangement and emotional revelations with his father. Ultimately, he underscores the importance of connection and joy in every shared moment.

Ingrid Gould-Ellen, a Professor at NYU's Wagner School, dives into the perplexing issues surrounding housing assistance, specifically Section 8 vouchers. She discusses the baffling case of one listener struggling to find an apartment in Fond du Lac despite government support. The conversation broadens to explore the pitfalls of the housing system, including systemic inequality and administrative challenges. Additionally, they touch on the evolving landscape of internet fame and its implications for personal connections, capturing the intersection of housing and digital culture.

Zeke Faux, an investigative reporter for Bloomberg and author of 'Number Go Up,' dives deep into the sensational case of Sam Bankman-Fried, once a crypto superstar. Faux unpacks how over eight billion dollars vanished amid FTX's dramatic collapse. He shares insights from the chaotic world of cryptocurrency journalism, revealing how celebrity culture influenced the rise and fall of Bankman-Fried. The discussion highlights the complex intertwining of wealth, philanthropy, and ethical dilemmas in a landscape marked by both innovation and reckless speculation.

Barack Richman, a law professor at Duke University specializing in the diamond industry, joins to unravel the perplexing allure of diamonds. He discusses how these gems, marketed as rare and romantic, are actually more accessible than we think. Richman examines the historical exploitation tied to diamond production and the monopolistic strategies of companies like De Beers. He also addresses the rise of lab-created diamonds, highlighting the ethical concerns consumers face today. The podcast is a fascinating dive into gems that spark both desire and debate.

Maya Hawke, known for her role in Stranger Things and daughter of Hollywood stars Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke, joins Lucas Shaw, managing editor at Bloomberg News, to tackle the mystery of Netflix's elusive viewership data. They discuss how this lack of transparency impacts artists' compensation and raises broader questions about evolving entertainment dynamics. The conversation dives into the complexities of streaming metrics and their implications for the industry, highlighting the tensions between artistic integrity and profit-driven motives.

Craig Finn, lead singer of indie rock band The Hold Steady, shares his unique journey from a mundane office job to musical redemption. He discusses the quest for genuine job satisfaction, questioning whether true fulfillment is ever attainable. With humor, he reflects on the tension between ambition and contentment and explores the complexities of pursuing artistic dreams within a corporate environment. Additionally, the conversation takes a light-hearted turn as they share nostalgic anecdotes about their early experiences with cannabis.

A former fentanyl dealer shares insights on the chilling trend of mixing fentanyl with other drugs. He recounts his experiences navigating the drug trade from the Bronx in the 1980s to today, revealing the grave moral implications. Personal stories from users shed light on the paradox of drug availability in prisons, while discussing the relentless pull of fentanyl's effects. The podcast also emphasizes the significance of positive influences in recovery and provides essential resources for safe drug use.

Join journalist Ben Westhoff, author of "Fentanyl, Inc.," as he unpacks the disturbing rise of fentanyl in street drugs. He shares chilling recordings from a Chinese lab, revealing how dealers integrate this deadly substance into various drugs—often risking their own customers' lives. Westhoff discusses the dual legacy of fentanyl's creator and dives into the cultural narratives that led to the opioid epidemic. He also sheds light on the dangers of drug contamination and the stark realities of profit-driven practices in the drug trade.

Bill Fulton, an expert in urban planning and former mayor, dives into the intriguing world of transforming vacant offices into apartments. He discusses the paradox of empty workspace amidst a housing crisis, exploring zoning laws and community resistance. Fulton shares fascinating concepts, from backyard roller coasters to tiny apartments in malls, shedding light on the complexities of urban development. The episode also features a humorous debate about a viral zoo video that questions identity, keeping the discussion lively and engaging!

Andrew Leland, a writer and author of "The Country of the Blind," shares his profound journey of gradually losing his sight over two decades. He offers insights into navigating the emotional landscape of vision loss and discusses the importance of mindfulness and technology in coping with such changes. Andrew emphasizes the need for accessibility in digital spaces, highlighting the power of alt text. He also reflects on the identities shaped by blindness and the diverse perspectives within the blindness activism community.