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
Jun 23, 2023 • 51min
Grieving 9/11 With My Mother: Love, Loss & Strength | DEAD Talks (#110)
On September 11th, my mom lost her husband — and I lost my father. For the first time, she joins DEAD Talks to share her story of grief, resilience, and raising her children as a widow in the aftermath of 9/11.This deeply personal conversation captures how she remembers that day, how she navigated grieving while caring for her kids, and the strength it took to rebuild a life after devastating loss. Her perspective embodies the purpose of this podcast: breaking the silence around grief while honoring love that endures beyond tragedy.I’m proud to share this episode with the woman who carried me through it all — my mother. Her courage and wisdom are a reminder that grief can break us, but love helps us survive.👉 Subscribe now for more raw and powerful 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
Jun 16, 2023 • 37min
End-of-Life Encounters in Hospice: Love, Loss & The In-Between | Nurse Hadley (#109)
What really happens at the end of life? Hospice Nurse Hadley has witnessed extraordinary encounters from her patients — including moments where they saw their deceased loved ones before passing. These stories reveal as much about how we live as they do about how we die.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Nurse Hadley joins David Ferrugio to share the lessons she’s learned from the bedside, how her own personal loss transformed her spiritual beliefs, and why she believes end-of-life care carries profound wisdom for the living. She also discusses her new book The In-Between, which offers a heartfelt look at death, dying, and the beauty found in life’s final moments.If you’ve ever been curious about what happens in hospice, or want comfort in facing mortality, this conversation will leave you with hope and perspective.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful episodes on life, death, grief, and the afterlife.Purchase "The In-Between" hereFollow Nurse Hadley on YouTube, Instagram or TikTok. 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
Jun 2, 2023 • 1h 9min
Craig Shoemaker: Using Laughter to Heal Grief & Trauma (#108)
Can laughter really heal grief? Emmy Award–winning comedian Craig Shoemaker believes it can. Known as one of the funniest stand-ups of his generation and named Funniest Male Stand-Up Comic at the American Comedy Awards, Craig joins DEAD Talks to share how he’s turned decades of personal trauma and grief into healing through humor.In this conversation with David Ferrugio, Craig opens up about his own losses, the science and power of laughter, and why comedy is more than just entertainment — it’s survival. From his legendary career on stage to his work as a coach helping people apply humor in everyday life, Craig shows how we can all learn to take laughter seriously.If you’ve ever used humor to get through hard times, or wondered how comedy and grief collide, this episode will inspire and entertain.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful conversations on life, death, grief, and resilience.For more on Craig Shoemaker including his coaching program please visit: www.craigshoemaker.com@officialcraigshoemaker on InstagramSupport 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
May 26, 2023 • 49min
How to Deal With Grief: Anxiety, Guilt & Healing | What’s Your Grief (#107)
How do you actually deal with grief? Litsa Williams, grief therapist and co-founder of What’s Your Grief (a platform serving over 5 million people), joins DEAD Talks to share practical ways of coping with loss, anxiety, guilt, and the messy emotions grief leaves behind.In this conversation with David Ferrugio, Litsa offers guidance on how to support yourself or someone else after loss, how to approach unexpected death and trauma, and why grief education is essential for healing. As one of the leading voices in grief support, she breaks down the different ways grief shows up and how to navigate it with compassion.Whether you’re grieving personally or supporting a loved one, this episode provides tools, validation, and hope.👉 Subscribe now for more conversations that break the silence around death, grief, and resilience.Visit www.whatsyourgrief.com for more information on their amazing platform.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
May 19, 2023 • 1h 7min
Dr. Eben Alexander: Proof of Heaven & Near-Death Experiences (#106)
What happens after we die? Dr. Eben Alexander — neurosurgeon and author of the bestselling book Proof of Heaven — shares his extraordinary near-death experience after a rare illness left him in a 7-day coma. During that time, he experienced vivid memories of another realm, more real than anything on Earth, challenging everything he once believed as a man of science.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Dr. Alexander joins David Ferrugio to discuss consciousness beyond the brain, the lessons he learned from his NDE, and how his journey bridges the gap between science and spirituality. His story has captivated millions worldwide, offering one of the most compelling accounts of life after death.If you’ve ever wondered about the afterlife, consciousness, or the possibility that death is not the end, this conversation will open your mind.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful episodes exploring death, grief, and the afterlife.For more on Dr. Eben Alexander please visit www.ebenalexander.comSupport 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
May 12, 2023 • 44min
Good Mourning Podcast on Grief, Loss & Healing | Sally Douglas & Imogen Carn (#105)
What happens when two friends lose their mothers only months apart? Sally Douglas and Imogen Carn, creators of the Good Mourning Podcast, turned their heartbreak into one of the most powerful grief platforms today. Im lost her mom to suicide, while Sally’s mother died from a seizure in her sleep — two devastating losses that sparked their mission to normalize grief conversations with honesty and humor.In this episode of DEAD Talks, they join David Ferrugio to share their personal stories, the lessons grief taught them, and the unexpected ways they’ve coped — from laughter to psychic mediums. They also discuss their book Honest Conversations About Grief and Loss, which offers support, validation, and practical tools for navigating grief.If you’ve ever struggled with loss, guilt, or anxiety, this conversation will show you that grief doesn’t have to be carried alone — and that healing can even include laughter.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful episodes about life, death, grief, and resilience.They have a new book called “Honest Conversations About Grief and Loss”Go have a listen and check out their amazing grief podcast, Good Mourning Podcast.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
May 5, 2023 • 46min
Social Death vs. Biological Death: Identity, Legacy & Grief | Conscious Lee (#104)
What’s the difference between social death and biological death? Conscious Lee — educator, thought leader, and creator with over 2 million followers — joins DEAD Talks to unpack how death shapes identity, value, and legacy.In this episode, Conscious Lee and David Ferrugio dive into what it means to live without value vs. biological mortality, how grief intersects with race and culture, and why conversations about death are inseparable from conversations about life. Known for his mix of intellectual debate, hip hop, and viral social commentary, Conscious Lee brings depth, energy, and honesty to a topic most avoid.If you’ve ever questioned how society defines life, death, and purpose, this conversation will challenge your perspective.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful episodes about death, grief, and the afterlife.For more on Conscious Lee: https://snipfeed.co/theconsciousleeFollow @DEADTalkspodcast on Instagram & @DEADTalkspodcast on TikTok. Subscribe to DEAD Talks on YouTube, Apple Podcast, Spotify & more. 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
Apr 28, 2023 • 44min
Inner Work, Healing Trauma & Living With Intention | Cameron Rosin (#103)
How do we heal from trauma, grief, and the obstacles life throws at us? Cameron Rosin — RN, plant-medicine educator, and host of This Might Be Helpful Podcast — joins DEAD Talks to share tools for living with intention, building healthier relationships with ourselves, and unlearning destructive patterns.In this conversation with David Ferrugio, Cameron explores the importance of “inner work” — from meditation and self-talk to shifting our mindset around grief. He blends philosophy with practical strategies, offering support and motivation for anyone looking to strengthen their mental health and emotional resilience.If you’re searching for ways to approach healing with clarity and purpose, this episode offers wisdom, compassion, and practices you can carry into your daily life.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful episodes about life, death, grief, and healing. Follow Cameron on Instagram or learn more on him from his website. 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
Apr 21, 2023 • 56min
Neil deGrasse Tyson on Life, Death & 9/11 | DEAD Talks (#102)
On September 11th, Neil deGrasse Tyson was just four blocks away from the World Trade Center. The world-renowned astrophysicist, author, and science communicator joins DEAD Talks to share how that day changed his life forever and how it shaped his views on mortality.In this conversation with David Ferrugio, Tyson explores how death has been both a motivator and a lens through which he views the universe. He explains the cosmic perspective on life and loss, why our mortality can inspire meaning, and how even tragedy can be understood within a larger framework of existence.This rare, deeply human conversation shows a side of Neil deGrasse Tyson you don’t often see — reflecting on grief, resilience, and what it means to be alive in the face of death.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful episodes on life, death, grief, and the afterlife.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
Apr 14, 2023 • 52min
Fatal Crash Killed 5 in His Family: Mason Sawyer’s Story of Grief & Survival (#101)
On July 25, 2021, Mason Sawyer’s life was shattered when a fatal car accident claimed the lives of five members of his family: his wife Kortni, son Riggins, daughter Franki, brother Race, and nephew Rider. His only surviving child, Blue, became Mason’s reason to keep going.In this deeply emotional episode of DEAD Talks, Mason joins David Ferrugio to share his story of unimaginable loss, survival, and the ongoing journey of raising his son while grieving the rest of his family. Mason, now host of The 10Ninety Podcast, opens up about trauma, healing, and how talking openly about grief has become a way to honor his loved ones and find peace.This is one of the most heartbreaking and inspiring stories of resilience ever shared on the podcast — a reminder that even in devastating loss, life can continue with love and meaning.👉 Subscribe now for more powerful episodes about life, death, grief, and resilience.For more on this guest visit his instagram @masonsawyer91Follow @DEADTalkspodcast on Instagram & @DEADTalkspodcast on TikTok. 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
