DEAD Talks
David Ferrugio
DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio normalizes the conversation around death. Each new guest shares their experience with death in a way that shatters the ”don’t talk about it” taboo. It’s the one thing we all share in common, so let’s talk about.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 9, 2026 • 60min
When “I Love You” Comes Too Late with Nacya Marreiro (#248)
Nacya Marreiro, stand-up comic who turns personal pain into sharp humor. She talks about grieving her father before fully processing loss, a teenage near-death surfing experience, and tangled family dynamics. Short, candid stories about numbness, unexpected tears, anger, and using comedy to cope.
Feb 2, 2026 • 1h 4min
Losing a sibling to addiction with Kalie Shorr (#247)
What happens when grief doesn’t wait — and the world is watching?In this deeply moving episode of DEAD Talks, artist Kalie Shorr shares the story of losing her sister to an overdose, filming a music video the very next day, and watching her private pain become public commentary.We talk about addiction, sibling loss, grief while in the spotlight, supporting children after loss, and how tragedy reshapes identity, family, and purpose.This is an honest conversation about:Loving someone with addictionThe weight of “last conversations”Grieving while being expected to performTurning pain into meaning and advocacyA must-listen for anyone touched by grief, addiction, or loss.For more on Kalie Shorr: @kalieshorrIf you're looking for Grief Support check out our new Grief Journey Appwww.studio.com/griefjourneySupport the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Sign Up For E-Mail Updates Here > Submit Your EmailHats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “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 Talks DEAD 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
Jan 26, 2026 • 49min
What Grieving Children Actually Need — with Rich Schimel (#246)
What does grief look like through the eyes of a child?In this episode of DEAD Talks, host David Ferrugio sits down with Rich Schimel, founder of A Little Hope Foundation, an organization created after 9/11 to support children navigating profound loss.With over two decades of experience, Rich shares what actually helps grieving children—and what doesn’t. From the importance of safe, judgment-free spaces to the long-term emotional impact of losing a parent young, this conversation challenges how we think about grief, healing, and support.This episode is for:Parents raising grieving childrenAnyone who lost a parent early in lifeThose impacted by suicide or overdose lossAnyone who wants to understand grief more honestlyGrief isn’t something you fix. It’s something you learn to live with.For more on Rich Schimel and A Little Hope Foundation: https://alittlehope.org/If you're looking for Grief Support check out our new Grief Journey Appwww.studio.com/griefjourneySupport the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Sign Up For E-Mail Updates Here > Submit Your EmailHats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “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 Talks DEAD 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
Jan 19, 2026 • 1h 18min
Death Is the Lens That Makes Life Clear with Davide De Pierro (#245)
In this engaging discussion, Davide De Pierro, a writer exploring themes of grief and meaning, shares profound insights on how death shapes our understanding of life. He discusses Emerson's ideas on loss, the narrative of memories in his novel, and the loneliness experienced at funerals. The conversation delves into Tolstoy's reflections on mortality and how contemplating death can inspire intentional living. Ultimately, Davide emphasizes love as a central purpose in crafting a meaningful life and the resilience we develop through grief.
Jan 12, 2026 • 1h 1min
George Carlin’s Daughter on Grief, Fame, and Losing Her Father (#244)
What happens when your father’s death becomes a public event?In this deeply moving episode of DEAD Talks Podcast, Kelly Carlin shares the untold story of losing her father and legendary comic, George Carlin, and navigating grief in the spotlight.We explore:Public vs private griefIdentity after lossWhy death can be a turning point, not an endingHow grief gives permission to live more truthfullyFor more on Kelly Carlin please check out her podcast, her youtube channel and her courses, retreats and more:Courses, retreats and support networkKelly's Youtube"Humans On The Verge" PodcastJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Sign Up For E-Mail Updates Here > Submit Your EmailHats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “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 Talks DEAD 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
Jan 5, 2026 • 1h 28min
He Died — And the Ego, Anger, and Identity Never Returned (#243)
David A. Williamson had a near-death experience during cardiac arrest that didn’t just change his beliefs — it ended the person he used to be.After watching his body die from outside the hospital room, he returned without the anger, fear, and rigid identity that once controlled his life.We explore ego death, consciousness, attention, and how a single experience can permanently alter how you relate to the world — and to other people.This conversation isn’t about death itself.It’s about what survives when identity falls away.For more on today's guest: David A. WilliamsonSign Up For E-Mail Updates Here > Submit Your EmailIf you're looking for Grief Support check out our new Grief Journey Appwww.studio.com/griefjourneySupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Hats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “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 Talks DEAD 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
Dec 29, 2025 • 2h 3min
She Didn’t Believe in Mediums—Until She Became One (#242)
What happens when grief unlocks abilities you never believed in?In this powerful episode of DEAD Talks, a lifelong skeptic shares how losing her grandfather led to full-body apparitions, psychic downloads, and an unexpected awakening into mediumship and spiritual awareness. Alongside this, we explore complex grief, estranged family relationships, addiction, end-of-life reconciliation, and the emotional weight of unfinished love.This episode challenges what we think we know about death—and what might continue after it.To book a private session with Allison, visit brainwiggle.comAllison shares more of her experiences on social media:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brain.wiggleIG: https://www.instagram.com/brainwiggle/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brain.wiggleIf you're looking for Grief Support check out our new Grief Journey Appwww.studio.com/griefjourneySupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Sign Up For E-Mail Updates Here > Submit Your EmailHats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “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 Talks DEAD 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
Dec 22, 2025 • 58min
You Can Learn Intuition: How Mediumship & Awareness Actually Work with Alysa Conger (#241)
Intuition isn’t magic — and it isn’t reserved for a few people.In this episode of DEAD Talks, we explore how intuition and awareness actually work, using mediumship as a lens to understand how humans perceive information beyond logic and overthinking.This conversation breaks down:How intuitive perception shows up (imagery, sensation, “knowing”)How mediumship works without mysticism or dogmaWhy anxiety and control block intuitive awarenessHow these abilities are learnable, not exclusiveThis is a grounded conversation about mediumship, intuition, and human consciousness — without fear, hierarchy, or false certainty.For more on Alysa visit https://www.hellowhosaidthat.com/Or, follow her on IG @alysamcongerWatch our first two podcast together below:Episode #181 "She Saw Death Before It Happened"Episode #215 "Grief, healing and the power of perspective"If you're looking for Grief Support check out our new Grief Journey Appwww.studio.com/griefjourneySupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Sign Up For E-Mail Updates Here > Submit Your EmailHats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “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 Talks DEAD 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
Dec 15, 2025 • 44min
We Don’t Know How to Deal With Death Anymore – with Paul Koudounaris (#240)
Why does modern society avoid death—and what is it costing us?In this episode of DEAD Talks, host David Ferrugio speaks with Paul Koudounaris, renowned art historian and author of Memento Mori, about how different cultures around the world honor the dead, why the West struggles with grief, and why pet loss is one of the most misunderstood forms of mourning.From mummy rituals and skull festivals to Buddhist animal funerals, Paul shares how ritual—not avoidance—helps people heal. This conversation reframes death as connection, not fear.A must-listen for anyone navigating grief, loss, or curiosity about death.For more on Paul Koudounaris: https://www.instagram.com/hexenkult/If you're looking for Grief Support check out our new Grief Journey Appwww.studio.com/griefjourneySupport the ShowJoin the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Sign Up For E-Mail Updates Here > Submit Your EmailHats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “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 Talks DEAD 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
Dec 8, 2025 • 59min
What She Saw After Dying in Surgery (NDE) #239
In this powerful episode of DEAD Talks, Tricia shares her real near-death experience after being clinically dead during surgery following a devastating car accident. She describes leaving her body, watching doctors operate on her, encountering angels and divine light, traveling through space, and feeling the pull of prayers from her loved ones.Tricia reveals what she believes happens after death, how her experience reshaped her understanding of God, fear, love, and consciousness — and why she believes life continues beyond the body.This episode explores:Near-death experiences • The afterlife • Life after death • Reincarnation • Spiritual awakening • Soul purpose • Consciousness • Grief & healingFor more on Tricia Barker: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/triciabarkerangelcommunicatorWebsite: https://triciabarkernde.com/ Sign Up For E-Mail Updates like book releases and news here > Submit Your EmailIf you're looking for Grief Support check out our new Grief Journey Appwww.studio.com/griefjourneySupport the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Hats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “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 Talks DEAD 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
