This is without a show about what happens when things we've taken for granted suddenly disappear.

My name is Omar Alakad, I'm a journalist and a novelist.

On this podcast we explore the finite nature of so much of what's around us.

What happens if we run out of sand, or if we can't grow coffee, or if we abolish prisons?

Would our lives be better for it? Would it threaten our survival?

Join me as I get into these questions and the consequences of a world without.

Listen now on Apple or wherever you get your podcasts.

I'm on 34th Street in Manhattan, outside Macy's at Harold Square.

I worked here more than 25 years ago and on one fateful day as a 23 year old I came face to face with bonafide all time Hollywood stardom.

Sort of face to face. Let's go inside.

Macy's was my first job when I arrived in New York.

I worked behind the counter as a fragrance specialist for Chanel.

I was not a spritzer. Spritzers were the male models in front of the counter.

The bait to lure customers so that I could dazzle them with my knowledge of the product line.

Can I help you, ma'am?

Yeah, Chanel number 19. You do know who wears number 22. The Queen Mother.

I hear she smells great.

Your French teacher? Well, you have no choice. You have to wear Chanel number five.

Coco?

For the divarce, looking to get her groove back.

Yes, it's an Oda toilet. No, it's not literally toilet water.

Most people run screaming when they see anybody standing there with a fragrance bottle.

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