DEAD Talks

David Ferrugio
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Jul 1, 2022 • 34min

Hospice Nurse Julie on Death, Grief, and Lessons from the Dying (#61)

With over 900,000 TikTok followers, Hospice Nurse Julie has become a viral voice for changing how we see death — and how we can live better because of it. Through her educational and entertaining videos, she shares raw, compassionate insights from her years in hospice care, helping people navigate grief, loss, and acceptance.In this episode, Julie opens up about the most powerful lessons she’s learned from working with the dying, the importance of normalizing conversations about death, and how her mix of honesty, warmth, and humor has made her a comforting resource for millions.This conversation is both eye-opening and deeply moving, offering wisdom not just for those grieving, but for anyone who wants to embrace life more fully.Watch full conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Us5Rq-kpOyAFollow Hospice Nurse Julie on TikTok & Instagram 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
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Jun 24, 2022 • 31min

BJ Miller on What Really Matters at the End of Life (#60)

BJ Miller is a physician, author, and leading voice in hospice and palliative medicine, widely known for his 2015 TED Talk, What Really Matters at the End of Life. In this deeply moving episode, BJ reflects on his own near-death experience at 19, how it shaped his understanding of life and mortality, and why rethinking the way we approach death is essential.Speaking with clarity and compassion, BJ explores what it means to truly live while acknowledging our mortality, the lessons he’s learned from patients at the end of life, and his mission to reform the way society views dying.This conversation is a rare gift: an honest, profound, and inspiring look into the universal truths that surface when we face the end — and what they teach us about how to live now.Watch full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qSYhNsZep00Support 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
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Jun 17, 2022 • 43min

Hospice Nurse Penny on Normalizing Death, Grief, and End-of-Life Education (#59)

Hospice Nurse Penny has built a massive online following by doing something few people are willing to do: talking openly — and even humorously — about death. With her witty, sarcastic, and deeply compassionate approach, Penny has created viral content that normalizes conversations around dying, grief, and what it means to truly live.In this episode, Penny shares her journey as a hospice RN, the lessons she’s learned from years at the bedside, and why she believes educating the public about death is just as important as educating them about life. From grief and acceptance to the lighter moments of hospice care, she offers wisdom and perspective with refreshing honesty.This conversation is both educational and entertaining, proving that talking about death doesn’t have to be taboo — it can be healing.Watch full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/amcPQ7cfbB0Follow Hospice Nurse Penny on social media:Hospice Nurse Penny on Tik Tok: @HospiceNursePennyHospice Nurse Penny on Instagram: @HospiceNursePennySupport 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
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Jun 10, 2022 • 40min

The Grief Gang: Amber Jeffrey on Sudden Loss and Normalizing Grief (#58)

Amber Jeffrey, host of The Grief Gang Podcast in the UK, knows firsthand what it means to live with sudden loss. After losing her mother in 2016 to a heart attack, Amber spent years bottling up her emotions before realizing she needed an outlet. What started as a personal release soon became The Grief Gang — a community and movement dedicated to normalizing grief.In this episode, Amber shares her raw story of loss, her honest reflections on navigating grief, and how turning pain into purpose helped her connect with thousands of others who felt alone in their grief journey. Her humor, honesty, and powerful storytelling make this conversation both deeply moving and unexpectedly uplifting.This is a candid look at grief, resilience, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel less alone.Watch full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UAAkVp9SHlMFollow The Grief Gang Podcast on instagram: @thegriefgangpodcastVisit her website: www.thegriefgang.comListen to her podcast on Apple: The Grief Gang Podcast   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
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Jun 3, 2022 • 35min

Scarlett Lewis on Sandy Hook, School Shootings, and Choosing Love (#57)

Scarlett Lewis is the mother of Jesse Lewis, one of the children killed in the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on December 14, 2012. In the aftermath of losing her son, Scarlett founded the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Foundation, inspired by a message Jesse left on their family’s kitchen chalkboard shortly before he died: “Nurturing Healing Love.”In this episode, Scarlett shares her journey of grief and resilience, her mission to bring social and emotional learning into schools, and how choosing love has become a transformative formula for healing. She speaks candidly about the worst day of her life, the legacy Jesse left behind, and how compassion can be a powerful force for change in the face of violence and tragedy.This conversation is heart-wrenching yet profoundly hopeful, offering lessons on love, forgiveness, and the human capacity to turn unimaginable pain into a movement for good.Watch Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/G5LQqUZBQK8Support 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
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May 27, 2022 • 33min

Lil Xan Opens Up on Grief, Addiction, and Mental Health | With Durag Dev (RIP) (#56)

Hip hop artist Lil Xan (Diego) gets raw and honest in this episode of DEAD Talks, opening up about grief, addiction, and the death of his close friend Citgo to suicide. He reflects on how loss shaped his struggles with drugs, his path to sobriety, and the lessons he’s learned watching fellow artists like Lil Peep, XXXTentacion, and Juice WRLD die too soon.Lil Xan is joined by Durag Dev, designer and creator of LVXWA, who vulnerably shares his own experiences with grief and loss. Tragically, Durag Dev himself passed away in September 2025, making this conversation even more impactful as one of the last recordings capturing his perspective and spirit.This episode shows a side of Lil Xan that fans rarely see — thoughtful, self-aware, and deeply reflective about life, death, and the importance of checking in on each other. It’s also a tribute to Durag Dev, honoring his creativity, his story, and his voice in the grief and mental health conversation.Watch full episode on YouTube & Subscribe: https://youtu.be/hQUXhRlmikU@xanxiety on IG @duragdev & check out Durag Dev's brand: https://lvxwa.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
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May 21, 2022 • 36min

Bobby Boyd on Losing Both Parents to Cancer and Finding Strength (#55)

Bobby Boyd faced the unimaginable — losing both of his parents less than two months apart to cancer. In this raw and deeply personal episode, Bobby opens up about spending their final moments together, how he processed the grief during and after, and what life looks like when your foundation is gone.Beyond his loss, Bobby is known as a luxury realtor in Los Angeles, a former model, and a vibrant social media presence where he shares food, drink, and lifestyle content. Here, though, he offers something even more valuable: his vulnerability, honesty, and perspective on life after profound loss.This episode is about grief, resilience, and learning to keep living when life hits the hardest.Support DEAD Talks on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/deadtalksFollow Bobby on TikTok @bobbyboydliving & Instagram @bboydlaWatch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z-7rH8U4MF0Support 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
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May 13, 2022 • 42min

Surviving Multiple Losses and Suicide in the Family (#54)

Julia Fisher has endured more loss in a short span of time than most face in a lifetime. From the devastating death of her father to suicide, to several other family deaths within just a few years, Julia has had to navigate grief after grief while still trying to move forward with life.An actor by trade, Julia brings both depth and wit to this difficult subject. In this conversation, she reflects on how she’s processed tragedy, how humor can sometimes make the unbearable feel lighter, and the lessons she’s learned from navigating multiple losses all at once.Guest: @JuliaFayeFisher on InstagramSupport 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
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May 6, 2022 • 50min

Sports Psychology, Suicide Prevention, and Healing Through Brainspotting (#53)

Sports psychologist Paige E. Roberts, LICSW PhD, is on a mission to find better ways to treat mental illness, prevent suicide, and help athletes heal both mentally and physically. A sports and fitness enthusiast herself, Paige developed Performance Neuro Training — a unique blend of sports psychology, Brainspotting, and hot & cold photobiomodulation laser-light therapy.In this episode of DEAD Talks, Paige shares her groundbreaking practice and her personal story of loss, having experienced the death of several athlete friends to suicide. That loss became her catalyst to dedicate her life’s work to mental health, recovery, and suicide prevention.This is an insightful, hopeful, and inspiring conversation about the future of mental health and the tools available to heal.Watch full episode on YouTubeSupport 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
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Apr 29, 2022 • 1h 7min

Losing a Mother to Cancer and Finding Peace in Her Final Days (#52)

In this moving episode of DEAD Talks, Jorge Perez returns to share the story of losing his mother, Yolanda, to cancer. Having previously spoken about his father’s passing, Jorge now reflects on what it was like to witness his mother’s final days — and the unexpected peace that came with them.Jorge brings both humor and deep perspective as he explores the meaning he found in her passing, the lessons death continues to teach him, and how his grief journey has evolved. He also created a short documentary in honor of his mother, which beautifully captures her legacy.@jorgeperez on InstagramLegacy Yoland Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RizBLBVjVrk&feature=youtu.beSupport 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

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