Slate Culture Feed

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.

Stefan Fatsis is joined by former NFL player Hamza Abdullah and ESPN’s Howard Bryant toanalyze race and sports. ESPN writer Mechelle Voepel and MinnPost.com’s Pat Borzi chat aboutthe WNBA. And director Adam Hootnick discusses his documentary about Texas high-schoolfootball, What Carter Lost. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens, Aisha Harris, and Julia Turner discuss HBO's Insecure with Slate's Veralyn Williams, the classic film Dr. Strangelove, and the Vulture article: "The Toxic Drama on YA Twitter" with Slate's Laura Miller. The Slate Culture Gabfest is brought to you by Sun Basket. Sun Basket sends organic, non-GMO ingredients right to your door, so you can skip the grocery store and prepare meals in just 30 minutes! Choose from Paleo, Gluten-Free, Lean & Clean, and Vegetarian options. Go to ​SUN BASKET dot com slash CULTURE​ today and get 50% off your first order! ​SUN BASKET dot com slash 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 Care.com. Care.com is the largest digital marketplace for care for everyone in the family—find nannies, sitters, housekeepers, dog walkers, and more. To save 30% off a Care.com Premium membership— visit Care.com/CULTURE when you subscribe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel Ward's husband, Steve, died unexpectedly when she was in her early 30s. Afterward, she says in some ways she re-experienced adolescence—while feeling older than ever. Want to suggest a podcast episode for our Welcome to Adulthood playlist? Go here: deathsexmoney.org/adulthood. 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 are joined by Johnette Howard to discuss Ezekiel Elliott’s suspension, tennis writer Ben Rothenberg comes on to talk about Sascha Zverev, and Mike Schur analyzes the Los Angeles Dodgers’ excellence. Ezekiel Elliott (2:16): Johnette Howard joins to review the domestic abuse allegations leveled against the Cowboys running back, if the NFL punishment system worked in this case, and whether the suspension marks a change in the NFL’s treatment of alleged victims. Sascha Zverev (15:14): New York Times tennis writer Ben Rothenberg and Johnette assess Zverev’s impressive defeat of Roger Federer and if the 20-year-old can be the one to finally unseat tennis’ Big 4. Los Angeles Dodgers (27:47): The Good Place creator Mike Schur discusses how the Dodgers got so great, the team’s transition from lousy to good (and rich) ownership, and how fans in L.A. might react to another early postseason exit. Afterballs (47:17): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens, Julia Turner and Stephen Metcalf discuss The Public Theater's new production of Hamlet starring Oscar Isaac, Netflix's Friends From College, and the maligned genre of prog rock with Dave Weigel. 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. They make applying for a loan simple and help you to understand the entire mortgage process fully. To get started, go to RocketMortgage.com/CULTURE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stefan Fatsis and Josh Levin are joined by ProPublica’s David Epstein to discuss Usain Bolt’s loss to Justin Gatlin. The Irish Times’ Ken Early also talks about Neymar’s record-setting transfer, and Josh and Stefan analyze Colin Kaepernick’s NFL exile. Usain Bolt (1:14): David Epstein joins to dissect Usain Bolt’s final competitive 100-meter race, Justin Gatlin’s surprise win, and how the sport is handling its perpetual doping problems. Neymar (19:06): Ken Early assesses the shocking departure of the Brazilian star from Barcelona, the mind-boggling price paid by Paris Saint-Germain, and why he believes the transfer is such a tragedy. Colin Kaepernick (32:10): Josh and Stefan discuss whether the league is colluding against the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback and whether it would ever be possible to prove such collusion is happening. Afterballs (49:20): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dana Stevens, Julia Turner, and Stephen Metcalf discuss Christopher Nolan's new film Dunkirk, the musical podcast 36 Questions, and sellouts with musician and writer Franz Nicolay.The show 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 Casper, an online retailer of premium mattresses. Get 50 dollars toward any mattress purchase by going to Casper.com/culture and using the 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jeff Garlin says the key to marriage, comedy, parenting and dealing with his food addiction is to be present. That doesn't mean it's always easy. Want to suggest a podcast episode for our Welcome to Adulthood playlist? Go here: deathsexmoney.org/adulthood. 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 are joined by sportswriter Jessica Luther to discuss girls in baseball. Dan Nosowitz also talks about trends in basketball sneakers, and Scrabble champion Will Anderson comes on the show to recount his victory.Girls in Baseball (1:29): Jessica Luther joins to describe her time covering the elite Girls Travel Baseball team, why girls are dissuaded from playing baseball in high school, and what can be done to increase female participation in the sport.Death of the High-Top (15:53): Esquire contributor Dan Nosowitz assesses Kobe Bryant’s role in the decline of high-top basketball shoes, whether the ankle support actually works, and how sneaker-makers are finding more ways to sell shoes. Scrabble (29:38): An interview with Will Anderson, 2017 the North American Scrabble champion, with analysis of his victory, the debate over Boggle versus Scrabble, and some stump-the-champ anagramming. Afterballs (50:57): Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the mid-1980s, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” and “We Are the World” gathered dozens of the biggest stars in music to put on a show for a good cause. The two songs spawned imitators, but today, the charity megasingle is a relic of pop music’s past, except around the holidays. This month, we examine how good intentions, pique, excess, and vanity led to the rise and fall of the do-gooder celebrity pop song. Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jamelle Bouie, Dana Stevens, and Stephen Metcalf discuss War For the Planet of the Apes, the Netflix film Okja and the ethics of meat eating, and the state of comedy under Trump. The Culture Gabfest is brought to you by Rocket Mortgage from Quicken Loans. They make applying for a loan simple and help you to understand the entire mortgage process fully. 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 Sun Basket, delivering fresh, organic ingredients and quick, healthy recipes to your door. Choose from Paleo, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, and Family options. Find out more at SunBasket.com/Culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bullseye host Jesse Thorn's latest project has him interviewing interviewers about...interviewing. Go behind the scenes of Death, Sex & Money as Anna talks about how she gets good tape. Do you subscribe to our weekly newsletter? You SHOULD! 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 and ESPN’s Mina Kimes are joined by Slate’s Jim Newell to discuss Jordan Spieth’s British Open win. Josh and Mina also dissect Kyrie Irving’s trade drama, and Slate’s Ben Mathis-Lilley analyzes Hugh Freeze’s ousting as Ole Miss football coach. Jordan Spieth (2:15):Jim Newell joins to talk about how Jordan Spieth avoided a Sunday collapse, how he compares to Tiger Woods, and whether Spieth is cool or dorky. Kyrie Irving Trade Request (13:49): Josh and Mina examine the motivations behind the star point guard’s bid to leave Cleveland, where he could end up landing, and if this means the last of LeBron James’ prime years will be wasted.Hugh Freeze (30:50) Slate’s Ben Mathis-Lilley delves into the scandal-filled backstory of the Ole Miss football coach’s ouster, which featured gas mask bongs, America’s public information laws, and a vengeful coach named Houston Nutt. Pre-Twitter Viral Sports Stories (45:30): In lieu of afterballs, Josh, Mina, and Ben opine on what notable pre-social media sports story would have broken Twitter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ronnine Bartley married her husband Lawrence while he was in prison. They had two kids and dreamed about a life together on the outside. Now, Lawrence has a chance at parole.Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for audio picks, 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.

Dana Stevens, Julia Turner, and Stephen Metcalf discuss Edgar Wright's new film Baby Driver, Jay Z's album 4:44 with Slate's Jack Hamilton, and David Brooks' infamous sandwich column. The Slate 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 the AT&T original series Mr. Mercedes, based on the bestselling Stephen King novel. Mr. Mercedes premieres August 9th at 8 PM eastern/pacific on Audience Network. Watch it on DIRECTV or DIRECTV NOW. Learn more at att.net/mrmercedes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wimbledon (2:15):Howard Bryant joins to assess Roger Federer’s routine victory, Venus Williams’ recent resurgence, and whether the next generation of tennis stars will ever step up to challenge the sport’s veterans. Record-Setting Rookies (16:04): Sam Miller of ESPN discusses the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Cody Bellinger and the New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge, and whether either of the two players can become the new face of baseball. (Sorry, Mike Trout.) 30 for 30 (29:03): Producer Rose Eveleth talks about the inaugural season of ESPN’s new podcast series, featuring episodes on an all-female Arctic expedition and a multi-million-dollar baccarat swindle. Afterballs (46:47) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We met Lawrence Bartley inside Sing Sing prison in 2014. Now, almost three years later, he's up for parole for the first time in his 27 years behind bars. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for audio picks, 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.

In this jumbo-sized summer strut special, Stephen Metcalf, Julia Turner, Dana Stevens, and Chris Molanphy discuss the songs of the summer and our annual summer strut playlist. Find the playlist at slate.com/culturefest or facebook.com/culturefest. The Slate Culture Gabfest is brought to you by Rocket Mortgage by Quicken Loans. They give you confidence when it comes to refinancing your existing mortgage or buying a home. Go to RocketMortgage.com/Culture to get started. And by the AT&T original series Mr. Mercedes, based on the bestselling Stephen King novel. Mr. Mercedes premieres August 9th at 8 PM eastern/pacific on Audience Network. Watch it on DIRECTV or DIRECTV NOW. Learn more at att.net/MrMercedes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Levin and Ben Mathis-Lilley are joined by Daniel “Progressive Liberal” Harnsberger to chat about his wrestling persona. The Ringer’s Bryan Curtis also discusses Jamie Horowitz and Fox Sports, and Nick Greene analyzes NBA free agency. The Progressive Liberal (1:27): Professional wrestler Daniel Harnsberger joins to describe the inspiration behind his character, whether he’s critiquing the Democratic Party, and what it’s like to be the bad guy in wrestling. Jamie Horowitz (19:01): Bryan Curtis, editor-at-large of the Ringer, comes on the show to assess what the sacking of Fox Sports 1’s Jamie Horowitz means for the channel and FS1’s lineup of debate-based programming. NBA (35:04): Nick Greene joins to discusses Kevin Durant’s massive pay cut, and whether anything can be done about the massive exodus of talent from the East to the West. Afterballs (54:04) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.