DEAD Talks

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 Show Join 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 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

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 Show Join 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 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

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/@blakeoftoday⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/blakeoftoday/ ⁠ Support the Show Join 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 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

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 Show Join 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 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

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 Show Join 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 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

What happens when comedy meets grief? Stand-up comic Nick Simmons joins DEAD Talks to share his powerful story of losing his mother to cancer at just 17 years old — and how that experience shaped both his life and his comedy career.Nick’s mother was diagnosed when he was 11 and told she had only six months to live, yet she fought for years. That journey left Nick with raw, honest perspectives on grief, loss, and resilience — and gave him a voice in comedy that blends heartbreak with humor.In this conversation with David Ferrugio, Nick opens up about how laughter and pain often coexist, why comedy can be a form of healing, and how his story continues to inspire his work. You may have seen Nick Simmons on CBS or performing alongside Bryan Callen — here, he brings both sharp humor and deep vulnerability to the topic of loss.If you’ve ever used humor to cope with grief, this episode will hit home.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful conversations on life, death, grief, and the afterlife.Follow Nick Simmons on Instagram ⁠@NotNickSimmons⁠For more links to Nick and to see his tour dates ⁠CLICK HERE⁠Support the Show Join 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 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

Natalie Weaver’s story is one of love, grief, and fierce advocacy. After losing her daughter Sophia in 2019 — a child born with facial differences and multiple disabilities — Natalie founded Sophia’s Voice to honor her memory and to fight for the rights of families navigating medical complexities.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Natalie joins David Ferrugio to share her mission to protect the disability community online, the battles she’s fought against social media giants, and her personal journey through unimaginable grief. She offers parents hope, resilience, and a reminder that every life, no matter how different, has profound value.This conversation is a powerful look at how grief can ignite purpose, how love continues beyond loss, and why advocacy for medically complex children and families is more important than ever.👉 Subscribe for more raw and inspiring conversations on life, death, grief, and resilience.⁠@nataliecweaver⁠Support the Show Join 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 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

Grief just happens — often when we least expect it. For comedian Laura Shepard, that moment came when she got the call that her father had died suddenly from a blood clot. At the lowest point of her life, she faced the raw realities of grief, loss, and all the unexpected details no one prepares you for.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Laura joins David Ferrugio to share her journey of losing a parent, the messy and often bizarre parts of mourning, and how grief ended up fueling her return to comedy. With equal parts vulnerability and humor, Laura tells stories that will make you laugh and cry while reminding us that grief is never a straight line.If you’ve ever lost someone, struggled to heal, or used humor as a survival tool, this episode will resonate deeply.👉 Subscribe now for more raw and real conversations about life, death, grief, and the afterlife.For more on Laura Shepard check her out on Instagram ⁠@laurashepard.pdf⁠ or ⁠https://linktr.ee/laurashep⁠Support the Show Join 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 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

Marci Burton survived a plane crash in the mountains of Kodiak, Alaska — while pregnant with her daughter and alongside her young son. Against all odds, she and four others were the only survivors of one of the deadliest bush plane crashes in Alaskan history.In this gripping episode of DEAD Talks, Marci joins David Ferrugio to share not only her survival story, but also her journey of grief, the loss of her mother, and the spiritual experiences that have shaped her understanding of life and death. From near-death trauma to paranormal encounters, Marci’s story blends survival with spirituality in a way that few ever experience.If you’ve ever wondered how people find meaning after tragedy, or how survival reshapes our beliefs about death and the afterlife, this conversation will stay with you long after you listen.👉 Subscribe now for more raw conversations on life, death, grief, and resilience.Support the Show Join 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 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

What happens when three siblings sit down to talk about losing their father on September 11th? In this very personal episode of DEAD Talks, David Ferrugio and his sisters share their perspectives on grief, family, and how loss reshaped their lives in different ways.Each sibling opens up about their unique grieving process, the memories they carry, and how their father’s death not only broke them but also brought them closer as a family. This heartfelt conversation touches on childhood memories, forgiveness, and the resilience required to keep moving forward after unimaginable tragedy.For David, this episode is one of the most meaningful in the series — an intimate family dialogue that shows grief is never one-size-fits-all, and that healing can look different for everyone.Watch our entire family discussing our experience with 9/11 here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-familys-9-11-story-grief-healing-resilience-173/id1498553334?i=1000668845512👉 Subscribe for more raw and real conversations on grief, life, death, and resilience. Support the Show Join 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 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