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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.

Technology journalist Casey Newton, known for his insights into tech trends and Elon Musk, dives deep into Musk's recent eccentric behavior. They explore the evolution of Musk's public image from an innovative entrepreneur to a polarizing figure. Newton discusses the role of social media in shaping perceptions and the profound implications of Musk's acquisition of Twitter. A fascinating segment on simulation theory adds a philosophical twist, questioning our reality and the impact of generative AI on society's views. A must-listen for tech enthusiasts!

Kelefa Sanneh, esteemed writer for The New Yorker and author of Major Labels, shares his insights on staying connected to new music as we age. He dives into how nostalgia influences our musical tastes and the challenge of balancing old favorites with fresh sounds. The impact of platforms like TikTok on music discovery is explored, along with the emotional bonds we have with songs from our youth. Kelefa offers practical tips for finding new music in today’s digital landscape, making it accessible for all generations.

Nancy Keats, a former Wall Street Journal reporter, dives into the disconcerting truth about airplane coffee and water safety. She recounts her investigations that revealed alarming hygiene issues, including infrequent cleaning of water tanks. The conversation explores the implications of unsafe drinking conditions, shedding light on bacteria like E. coli lurking in the skies. Keats discusses regulatory changes prompted by her work, urging travelers to think twice before sipping that in-flight brew.