In this episode of Last Meal, I’m in Montmartre, Paris, sitting down with a thinker I’ve long admired: author and Atlantic staff writer Thomas Chatterton Williams.
Thomas is someone who fundamentally refuses to be pinned down. Whether we’re discussing the "artificial intimacy" of our digital age or the weight of an inherited name, our conversation always returns to a central theme: the courage required to outgrow the identity you were born into.
We recorded this in a city that runs at a different speed, and that environment opened up a profound dialogue about the cost of convenience in the West, the psychological danger of stagnation, and why the most important work often happens when we are "hungry"—both literally and figuratively.
This isn't a show about recipes. It’s a deep-dive into the wisdom, legacy, and ethics that define us. I prepare the dish my guests would choose for their final feast not for the food itself, but to unlock the conversations that truly matter before the clock runs out.
In this episode, we explore:
✅ The Ritual of the Daily: Why optimising for convenience has cost us our connection to community.
✅ The Digital Loneliness Crisis: How "artificial intimacy" creates the illusion of connection while leaving us more isolated than ever.
✅ Identity and Progress: Thomas reflects on three generations of change—from his father’s grandmother being married to a man born into slavery, to his own life in Paris.
✅ The "Hungry" Writer: Why high stakes and survival often produce the most focused and urgent intellectual work.
✅ The Philosophy of Effort: The vital lesson Thomas’s father taught him: you have to work twice as hard to bring honour to your name.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 – Intro
01:23 – France vs America
08:08 – The “August Pause”
13:39 – Is interconnectivity toxic?
21:43 – Outgrowing Identity
27:25 – Traveling to appreciate home
28:31 - Thomas' Last Meal
33:37 – The Wine of Two Lives
38:22 – Madeleine de Proust
45:00 - Confronting Mortality
53:00 - Stagnation vs Growth
58:20 - Writer's Journey Begins
1:08:00 - Hunger Drives Excellence
1:14:00 - Lesson Optimisation
1:22:45 - Praswell Grass Cutting
1:25:25 - The Origins of the Name Thomas Chatterton
1:32:50 - Experience Worth Every Cent
1:36:06 - A Father's Pride
1:41:27 - Last Word
Follow Thomas
https://x.com/thomaschattwill
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
What does it mean to live a meaningful life when we know our time is limited? In this profound yet light-hearted conversation, world-renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson explores the deepest questions of human existence, from the power of curiosity to the courage required to face mortality with purpose.
This isn't a typical interview about black holes and distant galaxies. Instead, we dive into the philosophy of living well, the importance of continuous learning, and why the knowledge of our mortality might be the greatest gift we have. Neil shares his perspectives on education, the cosmic view of humanity, and how understanding our place in the universe can transform how we approach each day.
Key Insights:
Why mortality creates focus and urgency in life
The power of manufacturing your own meaning
How curiosity can transform education and society
The cosmic perspective on human division and unity
Personal reflections on 9/11 and collective trauma
The relationship between creativity, courage, and living fully
Why learning something new every day matters
Whether you're seeking wisdom about purpose, exploring philosophical questions about existence, or looking to cultivate a more meaningful approach to life, this conversation offers profound insights from one of our greatest scientific minds on what it truly means to be human.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
02:08 - Words Neil Invented
16:38 - Does Neil Have OCD?
19:59 - Dinner Party for Aliens
25:03 - At War with a Lobster
30:25 - Comfort vs Adventure
33:30 - Is Meaning Meaningless?
35:55 - School's Out for Summer
41:50 - Neil was a DANCER?
45:30 - Curiosity
49:45 - Neil's MEAL Reveal
54:02 - Indulging the Senses
01:01:20 - Opening Dan's Wine
01:06:04 - Dinner with the Dead
01:17:03 - Can Wine Heal Wounds?
01:26:16 - Earth Has No Borders
01:31:47 - Dinner on an Asteroid
01:36:57 - Neil's Wish for Aliens
01:44:42 - Is Risk Beneficial?
01:47:19 - Getting Drunk with Neil
01:49:25 - 9/11 - Four Blocks From Ground Zero
02:04:00 - The Math of Tragedy
02:12:40 - Never Wait to Say It
02:14:15 - Last Word
About Neil deGrasse Tyson:
Neil deGrasse Tyson is an astrophysicist, author, and science communicator known for making complex scientific concepts accessible to general audiences. He is the director of the Hayden Planetarium and host of StarTalk. His work bridges science and philosophy, encouraging people to think deeply about their place in the universe.
About Last Meal with Tom Nash:
Last Meal explores life's deepest questions through intimate conversations about mortality, meaning, and what matters most. Each episode features thought leaders, philosophers, scientists, and artists discussing how they find purpose in a finite existence.
#NeilDeGrasseTyson #MeaningOfLife #Philosophy #PersonalGrowth #Mortality #Wisdom #SelfImprovement #LifePurpose #CosmicPerspective #Existentialism #PersonalDevelopment #Consciousness #LivingWithPurpose #LifeLessons #PhilosophicalThinking #HumanExistence #FindingMeaning #Curiosity #LifeWisdom #SelfActualization #MortalityAwareness #PurposeDrivenLife #DeepConversations #IntellectualDiscourse #ThoughtLeadership #MindsetGrowth #LifePhilosophy #ExistentialQuestions #AuthenticLiving #ContinuousLearning
What happens when one of the world’s leading physicists sits down for the final meal of his life? In this episode of Last Meal, I share a dish chosen by Brian Greene—bestselling author, Columbia University professor, and one of the most influential voices in modern physics—as we dive into the ideas, experiences, and turning points that shaped his extraordinary life.
From the nature of reality to the limits of human perception, from the search for meaning to the multiverse and mortality, this conversation blends science, philosophy, and introspection in a way only Brian Greene can. If you’re fascinated by cosmology, consciousness, purpose, storytelling, or simply what truly matters at the end of a life, this is an episode you’ll want to watch in full.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
02:00 – Life in New York
06:00 – The cosmic & the everyday
10:00 – Perception, experience, & meaning
14:00 – How our senses shape reality
17:00 – Building a life of purpose
20:00 – Early Influences
25:00 – Veganism & Food Ethics
27:52 – Brian’s LAST MEAL
32:00 – The Final Conversation
36:00 – Is there a Multiverse?
41:00 – Brian's Turning Point
45:00 – Awe, memory, and the arc of a life
49:00 – Brian's Mystery
1:03:32 – Last Word
Follow Brian Greene
https://x.com/bgreene
Follow Tom Nash
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
#BrianGreene #TomNash #djhookie #TheoreticalPhysics #Cosmology #Multiverse #MeaningOfLife #SciencePodcast #Philosophy #FoodShow #LifeStories #BigQuestions #FinalMeal
In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with philosopher and author Peter Boghossian for a live dinner conversation at Franklin Salon in New York City. Over his chosen final dish, we explore how beliefs are formed, the role of discomfort in personal growth, and what it really means to live an honest life.
Peter’s known for having “impossible conversations” around the world, but here, he opens up about truth, meaning, and what gives life its depth when all certainty fades. Between laughter, reflection, and a few uncomfortable truths, we share a meal that becomes something much more—a meditation on being human.
🍽️ Last Meal brings together fascinating people for a conversation about life, philosophy, and the meal they’d choose if it were their last on earth.
Chapters
00:00 – Opening
02:00 – Conversation
05:00 – Belief
10:00 – Honesty
14:00 – Learning
16:00 – Mortality
18:00 – The Meal
20:00 – Ritual
25:00 – Adversity
30:00 – Lessons
34:00 – The Good Life
36:00 – Truth
42:00 – Gratitude
45:00 – Last Word
Follow Peter
https://www.youtube.com/@UCzoizcjErP9bNWnuU2CbWxg
Follow Tom:
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie
Special thanks to Roy, Julia, Brittany, Tom & the whole team at Franklin Salon.
Filmed by ClearCut Media
https://www.clearcut-media.com/
and Jonathon LeGrice
https://www.jonolegrice.com/
Scott Barry Kaufman: Psychologist on Self-Actualization, Victim Culture & The Stories We Tell Ourselves | Last Meal
What happens when a kid labeled "slow" in special education becomes a Yale PhD and Columbia professor? Scott Barry Kaufman's journey challenges everything we think we know about human potential, rejection, and the narratives that shape our lives.
In this raw and provocative conversation, Scott opens up about breaking out of special education through sheer determination, sneaking into Carnegie Mellon through the opera department, and why he believes we've fundamentally misunderstood what it means to live well.
We explore why comfort food connects us to memory, the difference between healthy and unhealthy selfishness, and whether our obsession with trauma and victimhood is actually holding us back from reaching our potential.
Scott doesn't hold back on controversial territory—from his views on addiction and over-diagnosis to why he thinks people are too quick to define others' narratives for them. We also get into the philosophy of self-actualization, why the self might be an illusion (that still matters), and what his grandmother's hotdog mess reveals about legacy and love.
This is a conversation about authenticity, transcendence, and the power of owning your story—not the one society hands you.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Introduction
03:20 - From Special Ed to Yale
06:15 - The Carnegie Mellon Backdoor
08:05 - Adversity as Catalyst for Growth
09:38 - Miss G: The Grandmother Who Taught Grit
10:40 - What Legacy Really Means
13:10 - Self-Actualisation Explained
17:15 - Healthy Selfishness vs. Unhealthy Selfishness
21:13 - Scott's Last Meal
26:20 - What Makes Comfort Food Comforting?
28:00 - Where Would You Have Your Last Meal?
30:10 - The Self as Illusion
32:10 - Experience vs. Purpose
34:00 - Nothing Happens for a Reason
37:16 - Making Peace with Not Having Children
39:20 - The Wine That Punches Above Its Weight
41:41 - Holding Grudges
44:09 - Owning Your Narrative
48:28 - Mirth Over Suffering
50:00 - Authenticity vs. Pretence
54:16 - Manufacturing Compassion & Activism
57:06 - Old Ladies
58:25 - Habits You Regret
1:00:00 - Self-Belief & Dipping Your Toe In
1:02:45 - Are We Defining People Into Victimhood?
1:05:20 - The Story You Tell Yourself
1:08:34 - Scott's Fear of Elevators
1:09:43 - The Sailboat Model of Self-Actualisation
1:11:16 - The $4000 Coffee Machine
1:12:45 - Is "Addiction" overused?
1:17:00 - Self-Diagnosis & Social Media Incentives
1:19:18 - Are We Losing Our Inspiring Characters?
1:21:38 - What Is a Life Well Lived?
1:24:30 - The Year Scott Would Relive
1:26:18 - Scott The Magician
1:28:00 - Final Message
1:28:42 - Last Word
FOLLOW Scott
https://www.instagram.com/scottbarrykaufman/
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie
Self-Actualization Tests: https://self-actualizationtests.com
Psychology Podcast: @thepsychologypodcast
#ScottBarryKaufman #SelfActualization #LastMeal #Psychology #VictimCulture #Authenticity #HumanPotential
Yale happiness expert Dr. Laurie Santos reveals why everything you think about happiness is wrong - and what actually works.
In this live conversation from SXSW Austin 2025, psychology professor and Happiness Lab podcast host Laurie Santos breaks down the biggest myths keeping you miserable:
1) Why money stops making you happier at $100k (not $10 million)
2) How spending on others beats spending on yourself
3) Why rumination and worrying actually make problems worse
4) How your phone is stealing 30% of your social connections
5) The counterintuitive way thinking about death improves your life
Dr. Laurie Santos is a Yale psychology professor, host of The Happiness Lab podcast, and researcher specialising in human happiness and wellbeing. Santos shares research-backed strategies that actually move the happiness needle, from her "junior faculty lasagna" last meal choice to practical tips for breaking phone addiction.
Key Topics:
* Happiness science and psychology
* Money and materialism myths
* Social connection and loneliness
* Technology's impact on wellbeing
* Mortality and meaning
*Evidence-based happiness strategies
Follow Laurie:
https://www.instagram.com/lauriesantosofficial/
Follow Tom:
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction at SXSW
5:10 Laurie's Last Meal choice
8:12 Death anxiety and happiness
15:30 Money can buy happiness (Kinda)
22:00 How phones can make us miserable
29:00 The biggest happiness myths
37:00 Why rumination fails
45:00 Personal Deep Dive
#HappinessScience #Yale #Psychology #SXSW #LastMeal #WellbeingResearch
Join Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, a renowned philosopher and author, as she sits down for an enlightening conversation on 'Last Meal.' Delve into her journey from teaching philosophy to writing accessible philosophical books and fiction. Rebecca discusses her complex relationship with food, particularly her hypothetical last meal, which she wouldn't regularly eat due to her love for the animal. Explore ethical dilemmas, the value of life, the quest for knowledge, and the struggle with religious upbringing.
From the significance of human and animal life to the foundational moral rule that 'everybody matters equally,' this episode is a captivating blend of intellect, humor, and deep introspection. Don't miss the touching anecdotes about Spinoza, Einstein, and the essence of secular humanism, all while reflecting on the beauty of life's simplest pleasures like fruit. Engage with Rebecca’s profound thoughts on free will, moral progress, and the importance of living authentically.
00:00 Intro
01:27 Rebecca's Last Meal
03:46 Philosophical Musings on Life and Death
07:30 Ethics, Morality, and Humanism
12:30 Spinoza, Science, and Determinism
23:05 Personal Reflections and Life Lessons
27:25 Last Word
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
What do rock stars and scientists have in common? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with Howard Bloom—music publicist turned theoretical thinker—to explore the deep connections between storytelling, science, and human progress. We talk about his time working with music icons, his theories on collective intelligence, and why he believes ideas, not individuals, are what truly shape history.
With eight transformative books under his belt, including a forthcoming Grand Unified Theory of Everything, Howard shares the crucial moments that shaped his life: from a revelatory bar mitzvah to his groundbreaking work with Michael Jackson. Howard's dedication to the principles of 'truth at any price' and 'seeing the world anew' has carved a unique path filled with astonishing stories, including his ventures in cognitive neuroscience and his success in the entertainment industry.
00:00 Intro
00:54 Howard Bloom's Background and Achievements
01:51 Howard's Last Meal
02:47 Childhood Memories and Atheism
06:01 Working with Michael Jackson
10:53 Insights on Fame and Performance
13:05 Journey into the Entertainment Industry
18:41 Creative Process and Legacy
25:39 Final Thoughts and Legacy
27:45 Last Word
Follow Howard
https://x.com/HowardxBloom
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
What can death teach us about life? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with Barbara Butcher—former forensic investigator—to discuss her extraordinary career working crime scenes in New York City. We dive into the psychology of forensic work, the emotional impact of facing death daily, and the lessons she’s learned about life, grief, and resilience.
Barbara Butcher shares her personal journey of overcoming societal expectations and personal hardships. From her childhood in a large family, her struggles with alcoholism, to becoming one of the few female medical examiners in New York, Barbara's story is one of resilience and self-discovery. She also reflects on the nature of truth, the importance of service, and how working with death has shaped her perspective on life and mortality.
00:00 Intro
01:05 Childhood Memories and Aspirations
03:04 Breaking Barriers in a Man's World
06:51 Overcoming Personal Struggles
15:49 Finding Meaning and Joy in Life
23:21 Final Thoughts and Reflections
25:20 Last Word
Follow Barbara
https://www.instagram.com/butcher.barbara/
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
Join Tom as he sits down with the extraordinary Chris Do. Dive deep into the mind of this 'loud introvert,' as Chris shares insights on his journey from a shy, introverted kid to a prominent entrepreneur and educator. Discover how a reluctant leap into YouTube transformed his life, and explore his philosophies on design, contrast, and the unified self.
Learn about his values on altruism, the urgency of living in the moment, and his poignant reflections on mortality. Chris passionately discusses the importance of loving oneself, embracing opportunities, and the impactful lessons he's gathered over his career. Don’t miss this episode packed with profound wisdom and the delicious symbolism of Chris Do’s Last Meal!
00:00 Intro
01:03 Starting the YouTube Journey
02:04 Chris' Last Meal
03:14 The Importance of Contrast in Design
05:22 Finding Identity and Teaching
08:20 Defining Moments and Teaching Philosophy
09:54 Parenting and Life Philosophy
13:11 Beliefs and Stoicism
18:38 Self-Worth and Business Philosophy
25:58 Last Word
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
Tonight, I sit down with Taryn Southern — futurist, storyteller, and all-round clever-cookie — for a conversation that’ll take you from the dizzy heights of curiosity to the quiet moments of meaning.
Taryn talks candidly about her battle with breast cancer, the paradoxes that shape a life well-lived, and the strange comfort of the meal she’d choose if it were her last. Along the way, we touch on agency, wisdom, resilience, and the fine art of making relationships count.
It’s a conversation that’s equal parts heart, head, and stomach.
00:00 Intro
01:40 Taryn’s Last Meal
04:30 Cancer Battle
09:05 Finding Humor in Dark Times
12:36 Agency and Control
14:15 Ownership and Gratitude
18:13 Success & Navigating Life's Journey
21:39 Spotting Toxic Traits
28:22 Objective Truth
30:20 Last Word
Follow Taryn
https://www.youtube.com/user/tarynsouthern
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast #tarynsouthern
From law school to late-night comedy—Tom Delgado’s career path has been anything but ordinary. In this episode of Last Meal, we dive into his love for history, his unique take on storytelling, and why he left the legal world behind. We discuss New York’s unpredictable charm, the fine line between comedy and education, and how embracing uncertainty led him to a more fulfilling life.
Join Tom Delgado as he reveals his fascinating transition from a lawyer to a stand-up comedian. Explore the nostalgic dishes of his Nicaraguan heritage, and delve into his passion for history and tour guiding in New York City. Tom candidly discusses the challenges of pursuing comedy, the impact of smartphones on attention spans, and his unique perspective on materialism and societal norms. Tom shares his experiences of making a financial adjustment, and ultimately, embracing his authentic self. Don't miss this engaging conversation that goes beyond last meals to explore life's biggest questions and the pursuit of passion.
00:00 Intro
02:07 From Law to Comedy
04:54 Tour Guiding Adventures
06:01 Passion for History
06:56 Life in Different Eras
09:01 New York City: A Living Organism
10:51 Flip Phone Lifestyle
12:13 The Challenges of Texting and Calling
13:25 The Excesses of Modern Society
15:40 The Impact of Social Media
18:37 AI and the Future of Creativity
21:09 The Essence of Live Comedy
22:55 Reflections on Life and Death
26:17 Last Word
Follow Tom
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG1OIoLEjzyjkXA8MHQyiQw
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
Join us on this soul-stirring episode of 'Last Meal' featuring the distinguished professor and behavioral economist Dan Ariely. Dive deep into a heartfelt conversation where Dan shares his transformative journey from a severe burn injury to his groundbreaking research on pain management and self-acceptance. Discover the profound lessons he's learned about happiness, human resilience, and the significance of trying new experiences. Learn how a brush with mortality reshaped his outlook on life, and get inspired by his thoughts on facing terminal illness with grace and introspection. Plus, watch as Dan braves his very first try of his very Last Meal!
00:00 Intro
01:05 A Life-Changing Re-evaluation
02:25 The Half Beard Story
04:05 Social Science Insights
06:01 Exploring Happiness and Acceptance
08:20 Dan's Last Meal
10:13 The Philosophy of Trying New Experiences
13:58 Defining Moments and Resilience
16:32 The Last Chapter of Life
24:52 The Struggle with Misbelief
30:40 Last Word
Follow Dan
https://x.com/danariely
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
What if you could speak from the grave? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with Bill Edgar, the Coffin Confessor, to talk about his extraordinary job—revealing the final wishes and secrets of the dead at their own funerals. We discuss the unexpected truths people take to the grave, the ethics of exposing secrets, and how facing mortality changes our perception of life and honesty.
Bill shares his journey from being a street kid and recounts his harrowing childhood, his transformative love story, and his experiences within the 'death industry.' As he indulges in his Last Meal — Bill opens up about the impact of secrets, the essence of redemption, and the hope for an afterlife. The conversation also touches upon his views on cosmic justice, his role in exposing wrongdoers, and the joys of family life. Dive into a raw and heartfelt dialogue that explores the complexities of life, death, and the legacy we leave behind.
00:00 Intro
00:48 Bill's Last Meal
01:44 Love and Lifelong Companionship
02:38 Secrets and Skeletons: The Impact of Hidden Truths
04:18 Facing Mortality: Working in the Death Industry
05:59 Vultures at Funerals: The Harsh Realities
06:48 A Modern-Day Robin Hood: Righting Wrongs
09:35 Spirituality and Atheism: A Complex Relationship
11:15 Fighting and Redemption: A Life of Struggles
24:03 The Coffin Confessor: A Unique Profession
25:34 Final Thoughts and Reflections
28:00 Last Word
Follow Bill
https://www.instagram.com/thecoffinconfessor
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
How do we break free from social conditioning? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with Aella—writer, data analyst, and internet provocateur—to discuss belief systems, personal autonomy, and the psychology of risk. We explore her journey from growing up in a strict religious environment to challenging societal norms through extreme experiences and data-driven self-experimentation.
An intimate and thought-provoking discussion that dismantles the complexities of emotional trauma, identity, and the quest for rational thought. From debunking myths about her journey in sex work to sharing heartfelt insights on her unconventional childhood, Aella delves into her psyche with raw honesty. Discover her unique approach to decision-making, her views on luck, and her compelling rationale behind her last meal.
00:00 Introduction and Misconceptions
01:16 Aella’s Last Meal
02:56 Openness and Risk-Taking
04:02 Luck, Intelligence, and Attractiveness
07:06 Childhood and Upbringing
09:28 Transition to Camming
15:20 Faith and Losing Religion
17:17 Social Connections and Internet
22:54 Cultural Norms and Trauma
28:22 Rational Thinking and Final Thoughts
29:55 Last Word
Follow Aella
https://x.com/Aella_Girl
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
Is personal freedom under threat? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with journalist and libertarian thinker Nick Gillespie to discuss free speech, the future of media, and why he believes individualism is more important than ever. We explore the risks of groupthink, the power of open debate, and the tension between personal liberty and collective responsibility.
From philosophical musings to the significance of artificial flavors, Gillespie weaves a tapestry of thoughts on existentialism, legacy, and modern society. Uncover why he views life through the lens of Christian existentialism, his take on living in the moment, and the profound impact of parental influence. Gillespie's reflections on death, gratitude, failure, and the essence of a successful life are complemented by his unique dietary preferences and a surreal last meal scenario.
00:00 Intro
01:09 Nick Gillespie's Last Meal
01:52 Promethean Philosophy and Enlightenment
02:53 Christian Existentialism and Barabbas
04:41 Creating Meaning in a Post-War World
07:01 Living Forever and Appreciating the Present
09:07 Imposter Syndrome and Personal Growth
14:29 Legacy and Parenting
15:56 Artificial vs. Natural Preferences
19:50 Failures and Success in Life
24:08 Reflections on Mortality and Meaning
26:37 The Ideal Last Meal Context
28:14 Last Word
Follow Nick
https://x.com/nickgillespie
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
Is free speech under attack? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with Greg Lukianoff—lawyer, author, and president of FIRE—to discuss the rise of cancel culture, the psychology of censorship, and why free expression is critical to a functioning democracy. We talk about the impact of ideological conformity, the growing fragility in institutions, and what happens when we silence dissent instead of engaging with it.
Discover Greg’s unique approach, 'constructive pessimism' or 'Russian optimism,' as a means to achieve happiness. Learn about his passion for his choice of Last Meal, rooted in his family's tradition. But it's not all light-hearted: Greg delves deep into his personal battles with depression and suicidal thoughts, sharing the life-saving importance of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Explore his sharp observations on free speech, the pitfalls of cancel culture, and the dire consequences of intellectual disempowerment. Anchored by a love for comic books and a relentless quest for authenticity, this episode is a compelling blend of humor, hardship, and hope, leaving you hungrier than ever for a genuine taste of life's complexities. Don't miss it!
00:00 Intro
00:56 Greg's Last Meal
02:36 Comic Books and Free Speech
03:13 The Struggles of Defending Free Speech
05:59 Battling Depression: A Personal Journey
10:57 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Recovery
15:11 The Rise of Cancel Culture
20:55 The Power of Honest Conversations
25:15 Greg's worst present
28:00 Last Word
Follow Greg
https://x.com/glukianoff
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
Why do smart people believe weird things? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with Michael Shermer—founder of The Skeptics Society and author of "Why People Believe Weird Things" — to explore ideological certainty, cognitive biases, and how skepticism can lead to a more fruitful life. We discuss free speech, the dangers of dogmatism, and how to stay intellectually open while still being skeptical.
Shermer, delves into life's biggest questions through the lens of rationality and critical thinking. From his journey from evangelical Christianity to skepticism, to his thoughts on consciousness and the random nature of existence, Shermer shares profound insights on finding meaning in a universe without inherent purpose.
00:00 Intro
01:12 Michael's Last Meal
02:04 The Great American Bike Race
05:11 Journey to Skepticism
08:02 Losing Faith and Embracing Skepticism
11:38 Living a Skeptical Life
16:15 Daily Routines and Consistency
17:34 Scientific Mysteries and Consciousness
19:12 Fear of Death and Afterlife
21:11 Political Concerns and Future of Humanity
22:31 Life Lessons and Personal Beliefs
25:55 Wisdom and Personal Growth
28:11 Hypothetical Questions and Preferences
30:16 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Follow Michael:
https://x.com/michaelshermer
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
What does it take to stand up to a dictatorship? In this episode of Last Meal, I sit down with Masih Alinejad—journalist, activist, and dissident—to talk about her fight against Iran’s oppressive regime. We discuss her exile, the threats to her life, and the cost of speaking out against tyranny.
From her early days under compulsory veiling in Iran to becoming a powerful voice for freedom in exile, Alinejad reveals the personal and political challenges she's overcome. She moves us with memories of her family and culture, ignited by the aroma of her Last Meal. Despite facing an assassination plot and relentless persecution, Alinejad's spirit remains unbroken. Her journey from a village echoing 'Death to America' to finding solace in a united American neighborhood is a testament to resilience and hope.
00:00 Introduction
01:58 Growing Up in Iran
03:58 The Power of Family and Community
04:40 Masih’s Last Meal
08:10 Facing Threats and Assassination Attempts
16:53 The Fight Against Islamic Extremism
22:23 Reflections on Life and Legacy
26:28 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Follow Masih
https://www.instagram.com/masih.alinejad/
Follow Tom
https://www.instagram.com/djhookie/
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit:🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect:
http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash
http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash
https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits:
Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
Series DOP: Lauren Muir
Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/)
Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks:Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast
If the world were ending tomorrow, and you could have one Last Meal, what would it be? This simple question provides a platform from which to tackle life’s big questions. The conversations we rarely hear, but need to be having. Standing firmly in the impasse between food and philosophy, Last Meal explores the deeper discourse of our lives — wisdom, legacy, regret, ethics, beliefs, and the experiences that shape who we are. From world-renowned thinkers to cultural icons, guests are presented with their choice of Last Meal before sharing an intimate, thought-provoking conversation.
The idea is simple: when faced with the ultimate moment of reflection, what truly matters?
Often introspective, sometimes humorous but always personal and profound, Last Meal unveils a unique side of some of the most brilliant and compelling minds. The act of sharing a meal creates a unique space for honesty, allowing conversations to flow in unexpected and revealing directions.
At its core, Last Meal is about what people hold onto when everything else fades away. The final meal itself is more than just a dish — it’s a representation of memories, culture, and personal significance. A childhood comfort food, a decadent indulgence, or a nostalgic favourite — each choice tells a story. Through these candid stories, each guest reveals something essential about themselves, before exploring the digestible wisdom they’ve accrued over their time on the planet.
Season One of Last Meal premieres Wednesday, March 12, 2025, with weekly episodes running through June. With a diverse lineup of guests, including world-renowned scientists, authors, activists, and cultural icons, the series offers a rare glimpse into the minds of those who have shaped industries, influenced societies, and challenged conventional thinking.
This is a show that goes beyond small talk. It’s raw, unscripted conversations where nothing is off-limits. Some discussions are deeply personal, others intellectually rigorous, and many are unexpectedly funny. In a world where conversations are often superficial or performative, Last Meal offers something different—an honest, meaningful exchange that cuts through the noise. Because when the clock is running out, people tend to speak the truth.
This is Last Meal — Conversations to have before you die.
***
Produced by: This is 42 & The Milk Bar
For more episodes and updates, visit: 🔗 www.lastmealwithtomnash.com
Connect: http://instagram.com/lastmealtomnash http://facebook.com/lastmealtomnash https://www.tiktok.com/@lastmealtomnash
🎬 Credits: Producers: Desh Amila | Peter Cramer | Tom Nash Series DOP: Lauren Muir Opening Titles Cinematography: Patrick Harris
https://www.patrickharris.com.au/
Additional Cinematography:
Paul Howard (https://www.dophoward.com/)
Jonathon LeGrice (https://www.jonolegrice.com/) Editors: Peter Cramer | Tom Nash
🍽️ Special Thanks: Opening titles filmed at Porteño, Sydney – a huge thank you to Ben, Elvis & the team for their hospitality, and for Sydney’s finest dining experience.
📩 For official inquiries, please email: desh@thisis42.com
#LastMeal #TomNash #Food #Wisdom #Podcast