DEAD Talks

Celebrity trainer and motivational speaker Brandon Schram (B.Motiv8ed) opens up about how loss, grief, and adversity have shaped his life and his mission to inspire others. From losing his best friend at 17 to navigating the pain of overdose tragedies, Brandon shares a raw and unfiltered look at how grief has transformed his outlook on life.In this powerful episode of DEAD Talks, Brandon reveals how he has channeled his pain into building strength — both physically and mentally — and how he continues to help people live with purpose. Known for training high-profile clients and pushing boundaries in motivational speaking, Brandon discusses how fitness, resilience, and mindset became his tools for healing and growth.This episode isn’t just about tragedy — it’s about transformation. Brandon’s story offers practical lessons on how to turn loss into motivation, embrace resilience, and live a life of intention despite the obstacles. Whether you’re grieving, struggling to stay motivated, or searching for ways to push through life’s setbacks, this conversation will leave you inspired. For more on Brandon Schram follow him on Instagram @B.motiv8ed ⁠www.bmotiv8ed.com⁠   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 does it mean to truly rethink the end of life? In this episode of DEAD Talks, Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider — practicing internal medicine physician, founder of End Well, host of the TED Health Podcast, and leading healthcare advocate — brings a powerful perspective on how society views death, dying, and legacy.Dr. Shoshana shares her mission to transform the conversation around death in medicine and beyond. We discuss how patients and families can approach end-of-life care with compassion, how healthcare systems can better support dignity in dying, and why talking about mortality is essential for living fully. With her extensive experience in medicine, advocacy, and public speaking, Dr. Shoshana highlights the importance of breaking the stigma around death and preparing emotionally, spiritually, and medically for life’s inevitable transition.This episode will leave you not only informed but also inspired to live with more intention, compassion, and clarity about what matters most. For more on Dr. Shoshana please visit her website: www.shoshanaungerleider.com and her non-profit ⁠www.endwellproject.org⁠Support 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

Stand-up comedian Mona Shaikh faced unthinkable pain: she was abused by her father and, just before his death, found the strength to forgive him. With an intuitive sense that their final meeting would truly be the last, Mona shares her raw grief journey, the power of forgiveness, and the life lessons that emerged from one of the hardest chapters of her life.Known as the host and producer of Minority Reportz, Mona brings her sharp wit and fearless honesty to this conversation — blending humor with vulnerability in a way that makes her story both deeply moving and unexpectedly uplifting.This episode explores how forgiveness can free us, how comedy can become a lifeline in grief, and why facing pain head-on often leads to unexpected healing.Watch this episode on YouTubeFollow Mona on Instagram @monascomedywww.monashaikh.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 Discounts 10% 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 Talks YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net

What happens when you become the caregiver for your own parent at the end of their life? LA real estate professional Roger Perry stepped into that role for his mother, who survived a stroke but lived paralyzed for six years before passing away. Just five months later, he faced another devastating loss — the death of his stepfather.In this conversation, Roger opens up about the heavy responsibility of caregiving, the trauma of abuse he endured, and how therapy helped him navigate the overwhelming grief and loss that reshaped his life.This episode explores the reality of caring for loved ones, the challenges of end-of-life transitions, and the healing journey that comes when grief forces us to confront pain, resilience, and growth.Support the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free!Merch:Hats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: Shop Here “Dead Dad Club” & “Dead Mom Club” – Wear your story, honor your people.Exclusive Discounts 10% 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 Talks YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net

Most of us avoid thinking about money and death in the same sentence — but preparing financially for death is one of the greatest gifts we can leave our loved ones. In this episode, Jeremy Schneider, founder of Personal Finance Club, shares practical advice on how to organize finances, plan ahead, and make sure the people you love aren’t left with chaos when you’re gone.Jeremy explains simple but powerful steps to get your financial life in order, how to approach conversations about money and death, and why planning now can save your family from stress later.This episode offers a unique take on grief and loss — reframing financial planning not just as numbers, but as a profound act of love and responsibility.Support the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 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 Discounts 10% 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 Talks YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net

Social media sensation, comedian, and philosopher Rodney Norman joins DEAD Talks to share his powerful perspectives on life, death, and finding meaning in misfortune. Having endured profound loss, including the death of his own child, Rodney brings raw honesty mixed with humor to help others see that even in pain, there can be perspective, growth, and light at the end of the tunnel.In this conversation, Rodney explores how tragedy can transform into wisdom, why humor is one of the most healing tools we have, and how embracing life’s misfortunes can lead to unexpected clarity. His mix of comedy, philosophy, and resilience makes this an inspiring listen for anyone navigating grief or trauma. Follow Rodney NormanInstagram: @rodneydnormanTikTok: @rodneydnormanwww.rodneynorman.com Support the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 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 Discounts 10% 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 Talks YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net

What happens when you lose a dear friend suddenly? Comedian, writer, and host of the Just Sayin’ podcast, Justin Martindale, shares his raw and emotional story of grief after the loss of a close friend in 2021.With humor and honesty, Justin reflects on navigating trauma, the isolation of Covid, and the unexpected ways grief affects us long after the moment of loss. Known for his sharp wit and creativity, Justin brings a deeply human side to this conversation — balancing laughter with truth, and resilience with vulnerability.Justin is also the writer of Hulu’s Huluween Dragstravaganza, and here he proves how comedy can sit alongside grief, helping us process the hardest moments of life. Follow @ justinmartindale on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinmartindale/?hl=en  Listen to 'Just Sayin' podcast with Justin: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-sayin-with-justin-martindale/id1612725859 Support the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 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 Discounts  10% 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 Talks YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net

What does it mean to lose your mother at only 20 years old? Singer and songwriter Airick G faced that reality when his mother died of scleroderma after years of illness. Forced to cope with grief at such a young age, Airick turned to music and art as a way to process the pain and share what he couldn’t always say out loud.In this episode, Airick opens up about the struggle of not feeling “fully grieved,” the challenges of accepting loss, and how creative expression can become both a release and a lifeline. His story is a raw and honest look at what it means to carry grief early in life — and how art can transform even the deepest wounds into something beautiful.Watch full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/H5lwCmzz5EUFollow Airick on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/airickgeee/?hl=enListen to Airick on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5lGNIGydODPbOUgNiaDkdL Support the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 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 Discounts  10% 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 Talks YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net

In 2012, Dayna Kathan (from Vanderpump Rules) lost her mother to brain cancer — a devastating event that shaped her life in profound ways. In this conversation, Dayna shares her grief journey with honesty, humor, and deep emotional insight.Balancing raw vulnerability with her natural wit, Dayna opens up about navigating loss, processing trauma, and finding meaning in the midst of heartbreak. Her story is both heartbreaking and uplifting, showing how even in the darkest moments, we can uncover growth and strength.You’ve seen her entertain on television, but here Dayna reveals the depth of her personal story — one filled with resilience, laughter, and love.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ez22Dv4WXSgFollow Dayna on IG @dadadaynsOn TikTok @daynakathan Support the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 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 Discounts  10% 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 Talks YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net

The story of almost dying three times. Music artist, Aria, was diagnosed with terminal cancer twice given a limited time to live. She's a two time cancer survivor and a survivor of a near fatal car accident. Aria defied the odds and beat death three times as she shares this space on DEAD Talks to discuss her story and how her life has taken a completely new meaning. Full of wisdom and inspiration that we all can learn from and apply to our own lives right away. Watch full episode: https://youtu.be/Q8rz8jdLWGEFollow Aria:Instagram @musicbbyariaTikTok @musicbyaria What does life look like after surviving death not once, but three times? Music artist Aria was diagnosed with terminal cancer twice and given limited time to live. She not only survived cancer — twice — but also walked away from a near-fatal car accident.In this episode, Aria shares her extraordinary story of defying the odds, what she’s learned from living on the edge of death, and how these experiences have given her life a new sense of meaning. Her reflections are filled with wisdom, raw honesty, and inspiration for anyone facing hardship or uncertainty.This conversation is a reminder that resilience, perspective, and purpose can be born out of even the most impossible battles with death.Support the Show Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $5 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 Discounts  10% 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 Talks YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | www.deadtalks.net