

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

Apr 21, 2025 • 48min
Dr. Jessica Zucker on Miscarriage, Pregnancy Loss & Breaking the Silence (#205)
Dr. Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles–based psychologist specializing in reproductive health and the author of the award-winning book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement. She is also the creator of the viral #IHadaMiscarriage campaign, which has helped millions of people worldwide feel less alone in their grief.In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Jessica opens up about the traumatic miscarriage that reshaped her life and career. She shares raw details of her experience, the unspoken grief of pregnancy loss, navigating breast cancer, and the societal silence that surrounds women’s trauma.In this episode, Jessica shares:
Her personal story of miscarriage and recovery
The emotional complexity of grief, self-blame, and silence
The partner’s role in pregnancy loss and healing
How her advocacy turned pain into a global movement (#IHadaMiscarriage)
The importance of breaking cultural taboos around women’s health
This conversation is raw, validating, and deeply necessary—whether you’ve experienced pregnancy loss yourself, know someone who has, or want to understand the silent grief too often left in the shadows.Her new book "Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Lives": Buy her newest book here!Instagram: @ihadamiscarriageWebsite: drjessicazucker.comJoin the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop HerePurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop Here All links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sha... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 14, 2025 • 40min
A 10-Year-Old’s Brilliant Perspective on Life, Death & the Afterlife | Sean the Science Kid (#204)
What can a 10-year-old teach us about life, death, and the afterlife? More than you’d think.In this enlightening episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Sean the Science Kid blends science, spirituality, and philosophy in ways most adults never do. From the mysteries of souls and consciousness to multi-dimensional realities, Sean shares his remarkable perspective on what it means to live, die, and exist beyond.In this episode, Sean explores:
How science and spirituality intersect when talking about life and death
The mysteries of souls, consciousness, and the afterlife
Quantum physics, multidimensional realities, and our choices
Why kids sometimes see truths adults overlook
His hilarious love for mac & cheese—mixed into the deepest of conversations
This conversation is funny, fascinating, and unexpectedly profound—proof that wisdom can come from the youngest voices.Sean The Science Kid on Instagram: @learningwithseanthesciencekidJoin the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop HerePurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop Here All links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 7, 2025 • 1h 17min
Fallon Farinacci: Surviving the Night Her Family Was Held Hostage & Murdered (#203)
Fallon Farinacci recounts the harrowing night her family was held hostage by a stalker in their small, tight-knit Métis community—a night that ended in the tragic murders of her parents.In this gripping episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Fallon shares her firsthand account of the threats, the failure of police protection, and the trauma that reshaped her life. She speaks candidly about the aftermath: navigating grief, raising her voice against systemic negligence, and finding strength through her community.In this episode, Fallon shares:
The night her family was held hostage and her parents were murdered
How grief, trauma, and community shaped her healing
The failures of the justice system and police response
Why she advocates for Indigenous communities and victims’ families
The power of resilience, courage, and turning tragedy into advocacy
This is a story of survival, grief, and justice—raw, emotional, and deeply important.For more on Fallon Farinacci: www.fallonfarinacci.comJoin the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop HerePurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop Here All links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 31, 2025 • 1h 13min
The Pain of Watching a Parent Die: Grief, Anticipation & Life After Loss (#202)
What does it feel like to watch a parent die?In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, host David Ferrugio sits down with Grant Magdanz to explore the raw reality of losing a parent. Grant shares his deeply personal journey of grief during his father’s battle with leukemia, the emotional weight of anticipatory grief, and how he eventually found meaning in life after loss.We discuss:
The complexities of grief—beyond just sadness
Anticipatory grief and what it teaches us about love
Navigating the slow decline of terminal illness
Finding meaning in loss and carrying a parent’s legacy forward
Why grief is never “one size fits all”
This is a deeply vulnerable conversation about family, love, and the universal truth of saying goodbye to a parent.Follow Grant Magdanz on IG: https://www.instagram.com/grantmagdanz/Join the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop HerePurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop Here All links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok + more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 24, 2025 • 1h 25min
Dan Soder on Grieving a Complicated Father & Finding Healing (#201)
Comedian Dan Soder opens up about losing both his father and sister at a young age, blending his signature comedic wit with raw honesty. He shares the complicated reality of grieving a difficult father, the impact of parental abandonment, and how those early traumas shaped his adult life.Through this vulnerable conversation, Dan reflects on:
Using comedy as a lifeline in dark times
How childhood trauma affects adult relationships
The healing power of therapy and forgiveness
Facing emotional pain head-on to find growth and resilience
This episode is a mix of humor, heartbreak, and healing — showing how laughter and honesty can coexist even in life’s hardest moments.Dan Soder: https://www.dansoder.com/Join the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop HerePurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop Here All links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok + morewww.deadtalks.net
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Mar 17, 2025 • 1h 44min
Robert Edward Grant on Free Will, Fate & the Mysteries of the Universe (#200)
In this special 200th episode of DEAD Talks, host David Ferrugio sits down with Robert Edward Grant, a renowned polymath, entrepreneur, and thought leader, to explore life’s biggest questions: Is life predetermined? Do we really have free will? What is the true nature of reality?Robert shares profound insights on metaphysics, ancient philosophy, mathematics, and consciousness, offering a rare perspective on how love, perception, and belief systems shape the reality we experience. From exploring the mysteries of death and the afterlife to uncovering the hidden patterns of the universe, this conversation challenges the way we think about life, growth, and destiny.We explore:
Free will vs. fate — who’s really in control?
How consciousness and love shape reality
Ancient philosophy meets modern science
Finding personal growth through challenges and transformation
This is a thought-provoking and transformative conversation you won’t want to miss.Robert Edward Grant: https://robertedwardgrant.com/Join the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop HerePurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop Here All links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 7min
His Astonishing Near-Death Experience After a Train Accident | David Ditchfield (#199)
David Ditchfield’s near-death experience (NDE) is one of the most extraordinary stories ever shared on DEAD Talks. After being dragged under a speeding train and surviving against all odds, David encountered an afterlife experience that changed his life forever.In this powerful conversation, he recounts:
The moment of his brush with death
The presence of mysterious beings and an overwhelming sensation of love
The glimpse he had into a universe beyond our own
How the experience continues to shape his purpose and art
This is a must-listen for anyone curious about the afterlife, spiritual awakenings, or how a single near-death experience can transform an entire life.For more on David Ditchfield: https://www.shineonthestory.com/Join the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop HerePurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop Here All links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok + morewww.deadtalks.net
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 3, 2025 • 57min
He Lost His Brother Before a UFC Fight | Cody Stamann on Grief & Resilience (#198)
UFC fighter Cody Stamann faced his toughest battle outside the octagon: losing his brother to a tragic overdose just one week before a major fight in 2020. Instead of backing out, Cody stepped into the cage and fought while carrying the weight of his grief.In this raw and emotional episode of DEAD Talks, Cody opens up about:
The shock and heartbreak of sudden loss
What it meant to fight in the UFC just days after tragedy
How grief continues to shape his perspective on life and fighting
The resilience and perseverance it takes to move forward
This episode is a powerful reminder that even the strongest fighters face battles we can’t see. Join the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop Here Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/ 10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop Here All links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok + morewww.deadtalks.net
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Right to Die: Ethics of Euthanasia & Mental Health (#197)
At just 28 years old, contemporary artist and writer Joseph Awuah-Darko opens up about his struggles with chronic bipolar disorder, loneliness, and the bureaucratic process of assisted euthanasia in the Netherlands.In this episode of DEAD Talks, we explore:
The controversial ethics of euthanasia and the “right to die”
Men’s mental health, stigma, and societal silence
The emotional reality of living with bipolar disorder
Finding peace through art, purpose, and open dialogue
This is a powerful and thought-provoking conversation that challenges cultural taboos, sparks awareness, and advocates for empathy in how we approach mental health and end-of-life choices.Follow Joseph on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okuntakinte/ Join the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop Here Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/ 10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop HereAll links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok + morewww.deadtalks.net
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 17, 2025 • 54min
The Science of Grief: How the Brain & Body Process Loss (#196)
Why does grief feel so overwhelming—mentally, physically, and emotionally? In this fascinating episode of DEAD Talks, grief scientist Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor breaks down the biology of loss and what happens inside the brain and body when we mourn.As a leader in the study of prolonged grief disorder, Dr. O’Connor explores:
Why grief feels like a physical pain
The difference between normal grief and prolonged grief
How the brain rewires itself after devastating loss
The role of the immune and cardiovascular systems in grief
What science reveals about healing and resilience
This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating loss—or anyone curious about the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and the human experience of grief.Purchase Mary-Frances O'Connor's new book "The Grieving Body" HereJoin the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: Shop HerePurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉 https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: Shop HereAll links to everything DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok + more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


