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Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin talk about the Patriots’ and Eagles’ wins in the NFL’s title games; the New York Times’ Juliet Macur discusses the sex abuse scandal in U.S. gymnastics; and Deadspin’s Dave McKenna helps remember D.C. sports legend Gary Mays. NFL playoffs (1:41): A conversation about the Patriots’ inevitability, the rise and fall of the Jaguars, the state of being Blake Bortles, and the shocking excellence of Nick Foles. Larry Nassar (24:40): The New York Times’ Juliet Macur discusses the power of the victim impact statements from Aly Raisman and other gymnasts, and talks about how the sport should reckon with its massive sexual abuse scandal. Gary Mays (42:52):Deadspin’s Dave McKenna memorializes the one-armed basketball and baseball star, who died last week at the age of 82. McKenna explains how Mays shut down Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor, and how he thrived despite being deprived of opportunities due to segregation. Afterballs (1:00:21): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Best friends Cat and Christine met in college and have stayed close in the years since. But their class differences became very clear—and uncomfortable—when they both struggled to get pregnant. This episode is part of our series Opportunity Costs: Money and Class in America. All this week we're bringing you five conversations about the moments in life when you've felt your class status the most, in collaboration with our partners at BuzzFeed News. Find out more at deathsexmoney.org/opportunitycosts. Did you know we have a weekly email newsletter for the Death, Sex & Money community? Every Wednesday we send out podcast listening recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.And follow the show on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Got a story to share? Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From January 22-26, we're sharing your stories about your class status, and when you've felt it most in your life. Don't miss the launch of Opportunity Costs! Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and every Wednesday we'll send you show updates as well as listening recommendations, letters from our inbox and a note from Anna. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Got a story to share or an episode idea for Death, Sex & Money? Email us any time at [email protected] up to date and follow the show on Twitter and on Facebook. We're on Instagram too! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss the Vikings’ last-second win over the Saints and other NFL playoff doings; the Wall Street Journal’s Ben Cohen joins to talk about Trae Young; and Sam Miller comes on for a conversation about a 50-inning baseball game. NFL playoffs (1:35): Stefan consoles Josh about the Saints’ tragic defeat. They also talk about whether Blake Bortles is an elite quarterback and the dominance of the Jaguars’ and Vikings’ defenses. Trae Young (20:15): Ben Cohen explains how Stephen Curry influenced Oklahoma’s freshman superstar and other members of the “Curry Generation.” Fifty-Inning Baseball (37:25):Sam Miller dares to imagine what might happen if a major-league game lasted much, much longer than any game has ever lasted before. Afterballs (59:49): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, former NFL player Nate Jackson, and football writer Melissa Jacobs discuss the NFL playoffs. Then Stefan talks to Spencer Hall of SB Nation about the University of Central Florida’s claim on college football’s national championship. And Stefan talks to soccer writer Jonathan Wilson about Manchester City’s dominance of England’s Premier League.NFL playoffs (1:09): Stefan Fatsis, former NFL player Nate Jackson, and football writer Melissa Jacobs discuss the first round of the NFL playoffs, more controversy over head injuries, a reported rift inside the New England Patriots, and Jon Gruden’s hiring as head coach of the Oakland Raiders.College football (14:35): Stefan talks to Spencer Hall of SB Nation about unbeaten Central Florida’s self-declaration as the national champion of major college football.Manchester City (29:50): Stefan talks to Blizzard editor Jonathan Wilson about Manchester City’s dominance in England’s Premier League, and the chances it can pull off an unprecedented “quadruple”—winning the league title, FA Cup, League Cup, and European Champions League.Afterball (39:51) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready to get mad.Stay in the loop and subscribe to our weekly email newsletter. Every Wednesday we'll send you our favorites from the audio world, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.And right now, if you support the show with a gift of $30 or more, we'll send you a special thank you at the start of the New Year: our new mini-podcast experiment, "Pull Quote." To learn more, go to deathsexmoney.org/donate.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by the Gist’s Mike Pesca to discuss a whole bunch of sports conundrums. Among the questions they ponder: How many seventh-grade basketball players would it take to beat LeBron James? How would you change an NBA court or an NFL field if irregularities were allowed? What’s a more worthwhile career—a few years of brilliance or a decade-plus of mediocrity? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we begin 2018 together, we're sharing our first mini-episode of Pull Quote, our latest podcast experiment, with all of you. It's not too late to sign up for the entire first batch of Pull Quote episodes. Chip in $30 or more to support our work at Death, Sex & Money right now, and we’ll email you a special link every morning for a week where you can listen in. Plus, you’ll get to tell us what you think about this Pull Quote series and whether we should make more.Are you subscribed to our weekly email newsletter? If you're not, you should be! Every Wednesday we send out our favorites from the audio world, fascinating letters from our inbox and important updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the Billboard Hot 100, two can be the loneliest number. While having a No. 1 song can define an artist’s career, there’s far less glory in finishing one spot shy of the top slot. Yet some No. 2 hits have gone on to become classics. This month, Chris Molanphy looks at three songs that still loom large in our culture: “Shop Around” by the Miracles; “We Got the Beat” by the Go-Gos; and “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Ben Strauss to discuss why academically rigorous universities like Wesleyan are betting big on football. They also speak with Rick Telander about the life and legacy of hoops legend Connie Hawkins.Division III football (3:09): Ben Strauss joins to assess the trend of elite schools investing big in sports, and what happens on campus when universities prioritize football. Connie Hawkins (23:15): Rick Telander, the author of Heaven Is a Playground, explains how Connie Hawkins—who died back in October—became a mythical figure on the New York playground scene, and why he’s a tragic figure. Afterballs (33:33): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I talk with a friend about her life after heroin addiction.Stay in the loop and subscribe to our weekly email newsletter. Every Wednesday we'll send you our favorites from the audio world, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.And right now, if you support the show with a gift of $30 or more, we'll send you a special thank you at the start of the New Year: our new mini-podcast experiment, "Pull Quote." To learn more, go to deathsexmoney.org/donate.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Andrew Brandt to discuss the allegations against Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson; by Chris Nowinski to talk about the NFL concussion protocol; and by Deadspin to assess the rise of fake sports news. Jerry Richardson (1:41): Former Green Bay Packers vice president Andrew Brandt discusses the allegations that the Carolina Panthers owner engaged in inappropriate workplace behavior, and Richardson’s announcement that he’s going to put the team up for sale. NFL concussion protocol (22:04): Chris Nowinski of the Concussion Legacy Foundation joins for a conversation about the recent spate of high-profile head injuries in pro football, and how to get fans and players and teams and the league to care about the dangers of big hits. Fake sports news (39:41): Deadspin’s David Roth talks about fake sports news stories populating websites like viralusa.org, as well as the online hoax that had some people convinced that the Washington football team had changed its name to the Redhawks. Afterballs (58:52): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How witnessing heroin overdoses every day is affecting one paramedic in Charleston, West Virginia. Stay in the loop and subscribe to our weekly email newsletter. Every Wednesday we'll send you our favorites from the audio world, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Warren Cromartie and the Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh to discuss Shohei Ohtani and Giancarlo Stanton; David Epstein joins to assess Russia’s Olympics ban; and Daniel Libit talks about his muckraking site NM Fishbowl. Shohei Ohtani and Giancarlo Stanton (2:10): Former Japanese League star Warren Cromartie assesses how Japanese star Shohei Ohtani will perform in the major leagues, while Ben Lindbergh explains the economics of the Los Angeles Angels’ deal with Ohtani and the Yankees’ trade for slugger Giancarlo Stanton. Russia’s Olympics ban (25:21): David Epstein explains the International Olympic Committee’s move to (kind of) ban Russia from the Winter Games. NM Fishbowl (41:57): Daniel Libit talks about his year-long effort to investigate New Mexico athletics and whether the model could work nationwide. Afterballs (1:05:55): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reconsidering what we put up with.Send us your 30-second voice memos about what you wish you could tell your younger self about dealing with harassment and bullying at work: [email protected] in the loop and subscribe to our weekly email newsletter! Every Wednesday we'll send you our favorites from the audio world, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Jeremy Stahl of Slate, and Howard Bryant of ESPN discuss the rift among NFL players over the league’s plan to donate money to social causes. Then Stefan and Josh Levin talk to Tom Haberstroh of Bleacher Report Magazine about the NBA’s new veganism. And Stefan talks about the forgotten, first black quarterback in New York Giants history, and the perception of black quarterbacks during the civil-rights era, with Louis Moore of Grand Valley State University.NFL protests (2:05): Stefan Fatsis, Jeremy Stahl of Slate, and Howard Bryant of ESPN discuss the rift among players involved in negotiating a deal with NFL management to aid social-justice causes—over where the money is coming from and whether it is mostly aimed at ending more than a year of on-field protests during the national anthem.NBA vegans (21:02): Stefan and Josh talk to Tom Haberstroh of Bleacher Report Magazine about his recent feature on Boston Celtics star point guard Kyrie Irving eschewing meat, and whether slimmer NBA players are better NBA players.Hank Washington (36:20): Stefan delivers an extended Afterball about the first black quarterback in New York Giants history, and then talks about the perception of black quarterbacks in the civil-rights era with Louis Moore, an associate professor at Grand Valley State University who studies African-American and sports history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A conversation about reclaiming your body after sexual assault.Send us your stories about the times you've been most aware of your class and how class differences have impacted your relationships. Send voice memos and emails to [email protected] in the loop and subscribe to our weekly email newsletter! Every Wednesday we'll send you our favorites from the audio world, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Spencer Hall to talk about Alabama’s loss to Auburn and Tennessee’s Greg Schiano fiasco; by Vann Newkirk to discuss Alabama’s 3-on-5 basketball near-miracle; and by Bruce Arthur to assess the Grey Cup. College football (1:53): Spencer Hall of SB Nation discusses Auburn’s big win over its rival Alabama, whether the Crimson Tide will get bounced from the College Football Playoff, and the University of Tennessee’s hiring and unhiring of football coach Greg Schiano. 3-on-5 basketball (22:40): Vann Newkirk of the Atlantic helps Josh and Stefan dissect Alabama’s spectacular, bizarre near-comeback against Minnesota in a basketball game in which they played three against five for most of the second half. Grey Cup (38:49): The Toronto Star’s Bruce Arthur joins for a conversation about the Toronto Argonauts’ win over the Calgary Stampeders, and about the overwhelming Canadianness of a snow-covered football championship game. Afterballs (50:30): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Donna Summer was a hitmaker for two decades and a dancefloor deity for more than three. Her collaborations with Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte were formative in dance, electronic and rock music, influencing everyone from David Bowie and Blondie to Madonna and Moby. But the rock establishment was stinting in its appreciation—whether at Comiskey Park in 1979, or the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the 2000s. This month, we examine how Summer became the Queen of Disco…and how she transcended that role altogether. Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When "It's a match!" takes on a whole new meaning. Are you in the same social class as your parents? Take our poll by texting "class" to 70101. And keep sending in your stories about the times you've been most aware of your class and how class differences have impacted your relationships. Send voice memos and emails to [email protected] in the loop and subscribe to our weekly email newsletter! Every Wednesday we'll send you our favorites from the audio world, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by the Ringer’s Kevin Clark to talk about NFL quarterback play and the Root’s Damon Young discusses Donald Trump’s feud with Lavar Ball. Plus: Slate’s June Thomas joins for an interview with swimmer Diana Nyad. Quarterbacks (2:00): Kevin Clark comes on for a conversation about Nathan Peterman’s extraordinarily bad debut as an NFL starter, plus the second-year surge of Carson Wentz, and the prognosis for Dak Prescott and Jared Goff. Lavar Ball vs. Donald Trump (21:22): Damon Young helps assess the feud between the basketball dad and the president of the United States. Plus, who’s right and who’s wrong in the war of words between Draymond Green and Mark Cuban about what we should call NBA “owners”? Diana Nyad (43:18): The record-setting marathon swimmer discusses her recent New York Times piece, “My Life After Sexual Assault.” Afterballs (52:02): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Sports Illustrated’s Grant Wahl to talk about the race for the U.S. Soccer presidency, and Mike Pesca comes on to talk about NFL celebrations, the Miami turnover chain, and inspirational locker room speeches. U.S. Soccer (1:30): SI’s Grant Wahl talks about the contenders for the top job in U.S. Soccer, why no women are running for the position, and whether promotion and relegation is coming to an American soccer field near you. Mid-Season Whimsy Spectacular (18:33): The original Hang Up trio of Stefan, Josh, and Mike Pesca reunite for a check-in about the state of whimsy in football. Should the NFL get credit for its celebration renaissance? Is the Miami turnover chain amazing, spectacular, or transcendent? Afterballs (44:11): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journalist Lisa Ling has been reporting on TV since she was 16. But she says telling other people's stories has always been a lot easier than sharing her own.Send us your stories about class. We want to hear about the times you've been most aware of it and how class differences have impacted your relationships. Email us and send voice memos to [email protected] in the loop and subscribe to our weekly email newsletter! Every Wednesday we'll send you our favorites from the audio world, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by Chuck Culpepper to discuss a crazy weekend in college football, by Charles P. Pierce to talk about Tom Brady’s weird diet and workout regimen, and by Greg Wyshynski to assess the Vegas Golden Knights.College Football (1:40): Chuck Culpepper of the Washington Post joins for a conversation about Alabama’s predictable dominance, the Big 12’s high-octane offenses, and whether Wisconsin will make the playoff.Tom Brady (15:59): Charles P. Pierce, the author of Moving the Chains: Tom Brady and the Pursuit of Everything, explains how the Patriots quarterback came to embrace weird lifestyle rituals.Vegas Golden Knights (31:54): ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski explains how the NHL’s Las Vegas expansion team got so good so fast, and whether hockey will succeed in Nevada.Afterballs (45:00): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlie Shrem made a fortune on cryptocurrency, lost it all, and spent a year in prison for a federal crime—all before turning 30. Support Death, Sex & Money today by becoming a sustaining member at $8/month and we'll send you our first-ever Death, Sex & Money mug. Go to deathsexmoney.org/donate or text "DSM" to 70101. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Levin is joined by Ben Lindbergh to discuss the World Series; by Don Van Natta Jr. and Jeremy Stahl to talk about behind-the-scenes machinations in the NFL; and by Alexandra Starr and Christina Cauterucci to examine sexual abuse in sports.World Series (1:39): The Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh comes on the show for a conversation about the Astros’ 13-12 win over the Dodgers in Game 5 of the World Series, as well as Yuli Gurriel’s racist gesture and Major League Baseball’s decision not to suspend him until 2018.NFL (22:31): Slate’s Jeremy Stahl and Don Van Natta Jr. of ESPN discuss their reporting on meeting between the league’s players and owners, as well as Colin Kaepernick’s lack of a role in those conversations.Sexual abuse in sports (41:45): Alexandra Starr and Christina Cauterucci join to talk about Starr’s Harper’s story about sexual abuse scandals in gymnastics, swimming, and other sports, and a new organization that’s trying to fix the scourge of abuse.Afterball (1:01:36): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 2004, Prince joined Tom Petty onstage at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony for what is now regarded as the institution’s greatest live performance. They were both first-ballot inductees—but their similarities go much deeper. On this month’s Hit Parade, we track the surprising parallels between two artists gone far too soon: from their fights with the music industry to their hits across genres and generations—and even the songs they gave to Stevie Nicks. Petty and Prince were category-defying, label-infuriating, and among the best pop songwriters of the late 20th century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss the World Series and Dusty Baker with ESPN’s Howard Bryant. Kevin Arnovitz of ESPN also joins to talk about the Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Alan Siegel helps assess the legacy of the Simpsons’ “Homer at the Bat.”Baseball (1:37): Howard Bryant comes on the show to preview the World Series matchup between the Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers, and to discuss the Washington Nationals decision not to retain manager Dusty BakerGiannis Antetokounmpo (17:03): Kevin Arnovitz explains how the Greek Freak has taken the leap to become an NBA superstar and what he’s like off the court.“Homer at the Bat” (31:35): Alan Siegel joins for a conversation about the classic Simpsons episode and the new mockumentary Springfield of Dreams: The Legend of Homer Simpson.Afterballs (46:34): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A few weeks ago, we interviewed a woman who shoplifts. Now, we talk with you about your reactions to her story.Support Death, Sex & Money today by becoming a sustaining member at $8/month and we'll send you our first-ever Death, Sex & Money mug. Go to deathsexmoney.org/donate or text "DSM" to 70101. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss Colin Kaepernick’s collusion grievance. They’re also joined by Evan Drellich to talk about Houston Astros star Jose Altuve, and by Caitlin Murray for a conversation about the Portland Thorns women’s soccer team.Kaepernick and collusion (1:50): Stefan and Josh assess whether Kaepernick’s grievance against the NFL has a chance of succeeding and what the quarterback has to gain from pressing a collusion claimJose Altuve (19:36): Former Houston Astros beat writer Evan Drellich explains how the 5-foot-6 second baseman transformed himself into one of the best players in baseball.Portland Thorns (37:25): Freelance writer Caitlin Murray discusses whether the National Women’s Soccer League champions provide a model for success for other women’s pro sports franchises.Afterballs (52:34): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special emergency episode of Slate’s sports podcast Hang Up and Listen, Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss the U.S. men’s national team’s disastrous loss to Trinidad and Tobago and what comes next for American soccer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Live from the Werk It Women's Podcast Festival at the Ace Hotel in downtown LA, we talk all about getting through your 20s with actors Alia Shawkat and Niecy Nash. Plus, a story from Terri Coleman about how Jose Cuervo taught her an important lesson in young adulthood. Give and get advice about life in your 20s at deathsexmoney.org/20sadvice.Want to celebrate your next Ellen Burstyn-inspired "should-less day" in style? Get our new "I'm having a SHOULD-LESS DAY" mug!" Support Death, Sex & Money today by becoming a sustaining member at $8/month and we'll send you one. Go to deathsexmoney.org/donate or text "DSM" to 70101. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss Jemele Hill, Jerry Jones, and Donald Trump with the Ringer’s Bryan Curtis. Yahoo’s Jeff Passan also joins to discuss the baseball playoffs, and Roger Bennett of Men in Blazers talks about Iceland’s World Cup dreams.Politics and the NFL (1:10): Bryan Curtis joins for a conversation about ESPN’s suspension of Jemele Hill, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones’ directive that his players stand for the national anthem, and the increasing politicization of the NFL.Baseball playoffs (22:52): Jeff Passan talks about Game 4 of the Astros-Red Sox series and the radical shift in how pitchers are deployed in the baseball postseason.Iceland (37:01): Roger Bennett revels in the soccer triumphs of the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup.Afterballs (49:46): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ellen Burstyn has won countless acting awards, but says she is proudest of raising her son. We talk about learning how to mother, leaving an abusive marriage and confronting death.Want to celebrate your next Ellen Burstyn-inspired "should-less day" in style? Get our new "I'm having a SHOULD-LESS DAY" mug!" Support Death, Sex & Money today by becoming a sustaining member at $8/month and we'll send you one. Go to deathsexmoney.org/donate or text "DSM" to 70101. Listen back to Ellen Burstyn in conversation with Gloria Steinem on Death, Sex & Money here. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin discuss the shifting politics of the NFL protests with Jamil Smith. Bloomberg View’s Joe Nocera also joins to discuss the FBI investigation of NCAA basketball, the Ringer’s Ben Lindbergh previews the baseball playoffs.NFL protests (2:24): Jamil Smith joins for a conversation about how NFL owners have tried to co-opt players’ protests for racial equality. FBI vs. NCAA (23:46): Joe Nocera comes on the show to break down the FBI’s investigation into the nexus between shoe companies, assistant coaches, and college basketball players. Why is the federal government sticking its nose into college hoops now, and can anything good come out of this inquiry. Baseball playoffs (41:11): Ben Lindbergh joins to discuss some of the postseason’s top contenders, among them the Cleveland Indians, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Washington Nationals, and the Houston Astros.Afterballs (56:42): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever since the ’60s, the recording industry emphasized the album over the single. By the ’80s, they were milking as many hits as possible from an album to convince you to buy it—from Thriller to Hysteria. But in the ’90s, labels changed tactics and tried to kill retail singles—promoting hits to radio that you could only buy on full-length albums. Why? They wanted consumers to shell out for more profitable CDs. As a result, musicians ranging from MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice, to Pearl Jam and Alanis Morissette, to Chumbawamba and Lou Bega became multiplatinum-selling artists. The industry’s ploy paid off, but it also created consumer resentment as people grew tired of paying nearly $20 to acquire one song.Here’s the story of how the recording industry toyed with consumers and chart fans, and how the internet struck back. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I want it, so I take it." A serial shoplifter explains why she does it, and how—and the conflicted feelings she has about her daughter following a similar path. Are you in Los Angeles? We want to see you at our live show next week! Tickets and info here.Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected] to support Death, Sex & Money? Become a WNYC member today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin and Marcus Thompson of The Athletic discuss the wave of protests against Donald Trump’s remarks about the NFL. Then they talk about Golden State Warriors star Kevin Durant’s recent Twitter snafu and his fragile psyche. And broadcaster and former U.S. soccer player Marcelo Balboa joins for a conversation about hot, new Major League Soccer team Atlanta United FC.NFL protests (1:35): Stefan Fatsis, Josh Levin, and Marcus Thompson of The Athletic discuss a remarkable weekend in professional sports that began with Donald Trump calling protesting NFL players “sons of bitches” and culminated in hundreds of athletes, coaches, owners, and others across sports rebuking the president in a wave of on-field protests and statements.Kevin Durant (27:16): Stefan, Josh, and Marcus assess Kevin Durant’s apparent insecurities—reflected in his new line of Nike sneakers with insoles that take on his critics—and whether it’s possible to be an NBA superstar and also mingle with the public like a regular guy. Soccer (41:13): Stefan interviews three-time World Cup soccer player Marcelo Balboa about Atlanta United FC, the Major League Soccer expansion team that recently drew a league-record 70,000 fans to a game in a new stadium in Atlanta. Afterballs (48:17): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by NPR’s Gene Demby to discuss Jemele Hill and ESPN’s conservative trolls, by HBO’s Eric Raskin to talk about Golovkin-Alvarez, and by Ninja Warrior’s Josh Levin for a conversation about obstacle course stardom.Jemele Hill (1:28): Gene Demby of NPR’s Code Switch comes on the show to explore why ESPN has become a target in the culture wars and the kinds of discussions that happen when people of color become leading voices in the mainstream media.Golovkin-Alvarez (25:43): Eric Raskin of the HBO Boxing podcast explains what made the middleweight fight between Gennady Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez an instant classic, and what can be done about scoring controversies in boxing.Josh Levin (46:55): A different Josh Levin comes on the show to chat about what it’s like to appear on American Ninja Warrior and his quest to become an Olympic rock climber.Afterballs (1:01:20): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Need help with the debt you already have? Balancing loan payments with the rest of your life expenses? We tackle your questions in part two of our call-in specials about student debt.Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected] to support Death, Sex & Money? Become a WNYC member today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is loan forgiveness a safe bet? When is college not a good investment? Is bankruptcy an option? Part one of our live call-in specials about student loan debt.Get your questions ready for our second night of live student loans call-ins TONIGHT (Wednesday, Sept. 13) from 8-9 pm ET. Watch and listen live at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. The website that expert Rohit Chopra mentioned about public service loan forgiveness during our episode is http://forgivemystudentdebt.org/. Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected] to support Death, Sex & Money? Become a WNYC member today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by the New York Times’ Mark Leibovich to discuss the NFL’s opening weekend, by Racquet’s Caitlin Thompson to assess Sloane Stephens’ U.S. Open win, and by Mike Pesca for a debate about the Red Sox’s sign-stealing.NFL (1:08): Mark Leibovich describes his experiences in New England and Dallas during pro football’s opening week, and whether owners are getting closer to dumping Commissioner Roger Goodell. Sloane Stephens (18:38): Caitlin Thompson joins to talk about the rise of the young American women at the U.S. Open, and what to make of Sloane Stephens’ surprising triumph.Red Sox sign-stealing (32:56): Mike Pesca returns to Hang Up to help Josh and Stefan decide whether the Red Sox’s technologically enabled sign-stealing scheme is cheating or gamesmanship.Afterballs (50:09): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner discuss the 40th anniversary re-release of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, whether Taylor Swift represents Trump-era art with critic Jody Rosen, and fan fiction with Laura Miller. The Culture Gabfest is brought to you by the Platinum Card from American Express. There’s a world of experiences waiting to open up with the Platinum Card. Backed by the services and security of American Express.And by Rocket Mortgage from Quicken Loans. Home plays a big role in your life. That’s why Quicken Loans created Rocket Mortgage. It lets you apply simply and understand the entire mortgage process fully, so you can be confident that you’re getting the right mortgage for you. To get started, go to RocketMortgage dot com/culture.And by The Bureau, Sundance Now’s exclusive spy series called “both cerebral and gadget-filled” by the New York Times. Start your free 30-day trial of Sundance Now today by going to sundancenow.com and using the promo code culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We check in with the Another Round co-host about her long list of New Year's Resolutions, and why she says she's in "a much different place today" than she was at the top of the year.Get your questions ready for our LIVE student loans call-in episodes next Tuesday and Wednesday, September 12 and 13 at 8 pm ET! Watch our Facebook page for more details.Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney. Email us any time at [email protected] to support Death, Sex & Money? Become a WNYC member today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by SB Nation’s Spencer Hall to discuss college football. Aaron Schatz of Football Outsiders also joins to talk about NFL tanking, and Ed Cunningham explains his move to quit his job as a football announcer for ESPN.College football openers (2:14): Spencer Hall talks about Texas A&M’s crushing loss to UCLA, Howard’s exhilarating win over UNLC, and other scenes from college football’s opening weekend.NFL tanking (21:08): Aaron Schatz explains why and how the Jets, Bills, and Brows are losing on purpose; whether tanking is a sound strategy for NFL teams; and what the league should do to address it, if anything.Ed Cunningham (37:43): The longtime ESPN announcer explains how he came to the decision to quit his job as a college football analyst, why he developed ethical qualms about the game, and why he doesn’t enjoy watching the NFL.Afterballs (57:48): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens, Stephen Metcalf, and Isaac Butler discuss the social media satire Ingrid Goes West, Adult Swim's Rick and Morty, and Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede with Aisha Harris. The Slate Culture Gabfest is brought to you by Boll and Branch. Right now, get 50 dollars off your first set of sheets plus free shipping by going to BollandBranch.com and using promo code culture.And by Open Account, a podcast that gets personal about making, losing and living with money. Created by Umpqua Bank and hosted by SuChin Pak, download and subscribe to Open Account wherever you get your podcasts.And by the Platinum Card from American Express. There’s a world of experiences waiting to open up with the Platinum Card. Backed by the services and security of American Express. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The latest storm to hit the Gulf Coast has us thinking back to the people we met two years ago, for the series we put together around the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. In our newsletter this week, we compiled a list of local and national organizations where you can donate to Harvey relief efforts. If you're not subscribed, sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter. We'll also send you great audio recommendations, letters from our listener inbox and updates from the show. Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney.And as always, you can email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by the Wall Street Journal’s Jason Gay to discuss Floyd Mayweather’s win over Conor McGregor, by Ken Rosenthal to talk about the Athletic, and by Robert Lipsyte to assess Clay Travis and ESPN’s supposed liberalism.Mayweather-McGregor (1:30): Jason Gay, who watched the fight while high, explains why fans weren’t unhappy with the experience, and looks at what’s next for the two very rich fighters.The Athletic (16:09): Longtime sportswriter and baseball sideline reporter Ken Rosenthal explains why he signed on with the sports media start-up and why he believes its business model makes sense. Clay Travis and ESPN (32:54): Former ESPN ombudsman Robert Lipsyte discusses accusations that the Worldwide Leader of Sports is a liberal bastion and the marketing genius of Clay Travis, who has brought the culture wars to sports. Afterballs (52:24): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julia Turner, Dana Stevens and June Thomas discuss Steven Soderbergh's new film Logan Lucky, the eclipse with Atlas Obscura's David Plotz, and speech on the internet after Charlottesville. The Slate Culture Gabfest is brought to you by Rocket Mortgage from Quicken Loans. Home plays a big role in your life. That’s why Quicken Loans created Rocket Mortgage. It lets you apply simply and understand the entire mortgage process fully, so you can be confident that you’re getting the right mortgage for you. To get started, go to RocketMortgage dot com/Culture.And by the Platinum Card from American Express. There’s a world of experiences waiting to open up with the Platinum Card. Backed by the services and security of American Express.And by The Bureau, Sundance Now’s exclusive spy series called “both cerebral and gadget-filled” by the New York Times. Start your free 30-day trial of Sundance Now today by going to sundancenow.com and using the promo code Culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katie Couric lost her husband to cancer in 1998. After 16 years of single parenthood, she remarried. But, she says, she still regrets the way she said goodbye the first time around.If you're in your 20s, we want to hear about your life dilemmas. Record a voice memo telling us what YOU need advice about. Send it to [email protected]. You can listen to Katie Couric's podcast here.Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter and we'll send you great audio recommendations, fascinating letters from our inbox and updates from the show. Sign up at deathsexmoney.org/newsletter.Follow the show on Twitter @deathsexmoney and Facebook at facebook.com/deathsexmoney.Email us any time at [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.