

DEAD Talks
DEAD Talks w/ David Ferrugio engages with death a little differently. Each new guest shares their experience with death, grief and loss in a way that shatters the ”don’t talk about death” taboo. You could cry, but you may have some laughs along the way.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 12, 2023 • 43min
What Thousands of Deaths Teach Us About Life (#125)
What can we learn from being present at thousands of deaths? As a hospital chaplain in a 1,000+ bed trauma center, J.S. Park has sat with countless families in their final moments—offering comfort, guidance, and presence when life ends. In this conversation, he shares the profound lessons he’s learned about grief, resilience, and what truly matters while facing death head-on.For more on J.S Park please visit https://linktr.ee/jspark3000 and check him out on Instagram @jspark3000Support the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Oct 4, 2023 • 51min
Finding Healing in Community: The New Normal (#124)
Grief can feel isolating—but what happens when strangers come together to share their pain openly? That’s the idea behind The New Normal Charity, a community-driven space changing how we approach grief, mental health, and healing. In this episode, founder Benjamin May shares his personal journey of loss and trauma, why he started the movement, and how free, honest conversations can sometimes do what traditional therapy can’t.Please visit www.thenewnormalcharity.com to get involved or read more on the cause.Follow The New Normal Charity on Instagram: @tnncharitySupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Sep 27, 2023 • 31min
Living 100 Years of Wisdom, Death & Longevity With Uncle Jack (#123)
At 100 years old, Uncle Jack shares the secrets to longevity, joy, and facing death with wisdom. He's become a viral influencer with over 2 million followers, his century of life lessons will inspire anyone searching for meaning, resilience, or perspective on aging and dying.Born in 1923, Uncle Jack has lived through an entire century of change — from growing up with a backyard “zoo,” to serving heroically as a World War II Army Veteran, to becoming a modern-day mega influencer with over 2 million followers worldwide. At 100 years old, Uncle Jack continues to capture hearts with his infectious joy, raw honesty about life and death, and his timeless perspective on what it really means to live.In this powerful episode of DEAD Talks, host David Ferrugio sits down with his uncle to uncover the secrets to longevity, his reflections on grief and dying, and the lessons learned over a century of living. From the battlefield to the digital age, Uncle Jack’s story proves that resilience, humor, and human connection are more valuable than perfection.If you’ve ever wondered how to live fully, embrace aging, or face death with wisdom, this conversation with a man who has truly seen it all will inspire you.👉 Listen now to learn from Uncle Jack’s 100 years of wisdom, and don’t forget to subscribe for more raw conversations about life, death, grief, and the afterlife.Ask Uncle Jack: 100 Years of Wisdom (launched September 26, 2023 everywhere books are sold) Website (book also can be purchased from Amazon, Target, Good Reads, Barnes & Noble, etc.) Follow Uncle Jack and learn more here: https://linktr.ee/askunclejack Support the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Sep 19, 2023 • 1h 2min
Living by Paradox: Grief, Death & Inspiration With Sah D’Simone (#122)
Why does our society avoid talking about death and grief? Sah D’Simone breaks down the stigma, exposing how silence around mortality leaves us unprepared for loss. This powerful conversation blends spirituality, emotional healing, and raw truth about what it means to face death directly.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Sah D’Simone joins David Ferrugio to explore the paradox of life and death — why grief is avoided in our culture, and how facing mortality head-on can transform the way we live. Sah shares his insights on navigating grief, normalizing conversations about death, and finding inspiration in life’s most difficult moments.They also tackle the hidden burdens of loss, from managing funeral costs and the deceased’s affairs to the emotional weight of saying goodbye. Sah D’Simone calls for a cultural shift: more education on mortality, deeper acceptance of grief, and better preparation for end-of-life realities.If you’ve struggled with grief, questioned how to talk about death, or want to live with more meaning, this episode offers wisdom, healing, and hope.👉 Subscribe for more episodes that break the silence around death, grief, and the afterlife. Connect with Sah D'Simone https://shor.by/sahdsimonehttps://www.tiktok.com/@sahdsimonehttps://www.instagram.com/sahdsimonehttps://www.facebook.com/sah.dsimone/ Support the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Sep 13, 2023 • 48min
Losing Her Father, Healing, and Finding Perspective With Gabby Reece (#121)
Gabby Reece lost her father in a tragic plane crash when she was just five years old — a loss that shaped her entire perspective on life, grief, and resilience. In this candid conversation, the former professional beach volleyball star, fitness leader, bestselling author, and podcast host opens up about growing up without her father, the lessons she’s carried through loss, and how she’s turned pain into purpose.Together with David Ferrugio on DEAD Talks, Gabby shares her unique perspective on grief, healing, and success, while also bringing humor and wisdom to a topic often avoided. This episode is as heartfelt as it is inspiring — proof that grief can be both a teacher and a motivator for living fully.If you’ve ever struggled with loss, searched for meaning after tragedy, or needed perspective on healing, this conversation will move you.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more raw and powerful episodes about life, death, grief, and the afterlife.Check out her own podcast, The Gabby Reece Show on your favorite podcast platformSupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Sep 6, 2023 • 55min
Inside the Minds of Hospice Nurses: Death, Dying & Stories With Nurse Julie & Nurse Penny (#120)
What is it really like to be a hospice nurse? Nurse Julie and Nurse Penny open up about death, dying, grief, and the surprising lessons learned from caring for patients at the end of life. With humor, honesty, and heart, they break down misconceptions about hospice, reduce the fear of dying, and share powerful stories from the bedside.In this episode of DEAD Talks, David Ferrugio sits down with the viral duo to explore how hospice nurses help families navigate loss, why talking about death should never be taboo, and how compassion and even laughter can exist alongside grief. From emotional moments to uplifting insights, this conversation will change the way you think about life, death, and everything in between.If you’ve ever wondered what really happens in hospice care or how to better face mortality, this episode offers comfort, wisdom, and perspective from two nurses who have seen it all.👉 Subscribe now for more raw conversations on life, death, grief, and the afterlife.For more on Hospice Nurse Julie For more on Hospice Nurse Penny Support the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Aug 30, 2023 • 44min
Bryan Callen on Comedy, Spirituality & Facing Life’s Struggles (#119)
Bryan Callen — comedian, actor, and co-host of The Fighter & The Kid — joins DEAD Talks for a raw and hilarious conversation about comedy, spirituality, grief, and what it really takes to face life’s hardest challenges. Known for appearances on The Joe Rogan Experience and as one of stand-up’s sharpest voices, Bryan brings humor and wisdom to a topic most people avoid: death.In this episode, Bryan Callen and host David Ferrugio dive into how comedy helps us process loss, why spirituality matters when confronting mortality, and the lessons that come from grief. Equal parts insightful and funny, this is a must-listen with one of the best storytellers in comedy.If you’ve ever wondered how humor, grief, and philosophy collide, this episode will leave you thinking differently about life and death.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations blending comedy, grief, and raw reflections on mortality.For Bryan Callen tour dates and more check out: https://beacons.ai/bryancallenSupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Aug 23, 2023 • 32min
Death Is a Catalyst: Grief, Creativity & Healing | Blake Kasemeier (#118)
Death can break us — or it can become the catalyst that transforms us. After losing his mother to lung cancer, Blake Kasemeier turned grief into art, launching his acclaimed podcast series Good Grief and later expanding his storytelling on TikTok to reach millions. His work dives deep into parenthood, loss, healing, and the ways grief reshapes who we are.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Blake joins David Ferrugio to share how tragedy pushed him to create, the emotional truths behind Good Grief, and how his journey continues to inspire a growing audience online. Together they explore how grief, creativity, and vulnerability intersect — proving that even in the darkest moments, new meaning can emerge.If you’ve ever experienced loss, questioned how to heal, or wanted to see grief from a new perspective, this conversation will resonate deeply.👉 Subscribe for more powerful episodes on grief, death, and the afterlife. Follow Blake: https://www.tiktok.com/@blakeoftoday https://www.instagram.com/blakeoftoday/ Support the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Aug 16, 2023 • 55min
The Emotional Tides of Grief, Hallucinations & Healing | Yasmine Aker (#117)
Grief comes in waves — and sometimes it brings experiences that are beyond explanation. Yasmine Aker shares her extraordinary story of loss, beginning with a near-death-like spiritual experience that shaped her beliefs about heaven, hell, and what comes after we die. After losing her father, she encountered unusual hallucinations and a unique grieving process that pushed her to explore life, death, and spirituality in unexpected ways.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Yasmine joins David Ferrugio to open up about the bizarre and powerful moments that shaped her healing journey, the lessons she’s learned about grief, and how her story can help others process loss. Beyond her personal experience, Yasmine is also known for her acting roles on Good Trouble, FBI, and more.This is an episode for anyone who has faced the surreal side of grief, questioned the afterlife, or wondered how to find peace in the storm.👉 Subscribe now for more raw conversations about death, grief, and the afterlife.For more on our guest Yasmine Aker, follow her on Instagram @iamyasiSupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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Aug 9, 2023 • 1h 13min
Abandonment, Forgiveness & Grief: Losing a Father | Jessica Singleton (#116)
Her father abandoned her as a child — and the next time she saw him was on his deathbed. Stand-up comic Jessica Singleton shares her deeply personal grief journey of abandonment, trauma, and eventual forgiveness. From being left at a Waffle House as a kid to facing her father’s final moments, Jessica opens up about acceptance, grief, and the messy path toward healing.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Jessica joins David Ferrugio to discuss how comedy has helped her process pain, why forgiveness can be one of the hardest parts of grief, and how she continues to work through the wounds of her past. Equal parts raw and honest, this conversation is proof that grief doesn’t follow a straight line — and that healing can come from even the most complicated family stories.If you’ve ever faced abandonment, struggled with forgiveness, or carried unresolved grief, this episode offers perspective, relatability, and hope.👉 Subscribe for more raw and powerful conversations about life, death, grief, and the afterlife. Check out Jessica Singleton across social media for her comedy dates and more: https://linktr.ee/jmscomedySupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch“Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts10% off Neurogum – powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy.About DEAD TalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD TalksYouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net
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