Ep. 1 - Evan Shapiro, Media Universe Cartographer

In the debut episode of Dave of the Dead, host David Chitel sits down with media universe cartographer Evan Shapiro for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about the moments that shape a life—and the courage required to reinvent when the old map no longer works. From growing up as a latchkey Gen-X kid to clawing his way into the entertainment business with no safety net, Evan shares the personal stories behind his outspoken public persona. The conversation moves fluidly through theater, television, corporate media, entrepreneurship, getting fired on his 50th birthday, and ultimately rebuilding a career by breaking every rule he was once told to follow. More than a conversation about media, this episode is about identity, resilience, creative risk, and being radically honest with yourself. Together, David and Evan dig into the four pillars of the show—Life, Business, Reinvention, and the Lessons That Outlive Us—setting the tone for everything to come.