Sharp Tongue

EPISODE 44: You're Not Dead Yet: Losing His Dad on 9/11 | Host of Dead Talks podcast David Ferrugio Dying Laughing with JessimaeThis week marks 25 years since September 11th. David Ferrugio, host and creator of DeadTalks and author of the upcoming book You're Not Dead Yet, was just 12 years old when his father died on 9/11.David joins Jessimae to talk about growing up alongside grief, what it's like when the entire country remembers the worst day of your life, still wanting our dead dads' approval, and how losing someone can completely change the way you choose to live.Most importantly, they remember who David's father was—not just how he died.Plus, two fatherless Italians talking about death. So naturally, there are laughs.

EPISODE 43: Dolly Parton: The Stories Behind Jolene, Elvis, Whitney Houston & Dollywood Dying Laughing with Jessimae This week, Dying Laughing celebrates the one and only Dolly Parton, from Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You to Dollywood, Elvis, Whitney Houston, rhinestones, wigs, philanthropy and an incredible business empire. A loving, hilarious tribute to a woman who turned heartbreak into music, poverty into purpose and somehow made everything sparkle.

EPISODE 43: Dolly Parton: The Stories Behind Jolene, Elvis, Whitney Houston & Dollywood Dying Laughing with Jessimae This week, Dying Laughing celebrates the one and only Dolly Parton, from Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You to Dollywood, Elvis, Whitney Houston, rhinestones, wigs, philanthropy and an incredible business empire. A loving, hilarious tribute to a woman who turned heartbreak into music, poverty into purpose and somehow made everything sparkle.

EPISODE 42: The Greatest Fumbles in Sports & Life | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing with Jessimae Everybody drops the ball. This week, Jessimae tackles life's biggest fumbles, from money and missed opportunities to bad relationships, career choices, regret and the mistakes that may have actually changed our lives for the better. She looks back at some of her own questionable decisions, including the opportunities she let go, the relationships she stayed in too long and the moments when hindsight made everything look a lot clearer than it felt at the time. Plus, listeners share the balls they wish they hadn't dropped, the people they chased instead of their dreams, the grudges they held too long and the choices that seemed like failures but ultimately led them somewhere better. Because sometimes a fumble is just a fumble, and sometimes dropping one ball is how you finally get your hands free to catch another.

EPISODE 42: The Greatest Fumbles in Sports & Life | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing with Jessimae Everybody drops the ball. This week, Jessimae tackles life's biggest fumbles, from money and missed opportunities to bad relationships, career choices, regret and the mistakes that may have actually changed our lives for the better. She looks back at some of her own questionable decisions, including the opportunities she let go, the relationships she stayed in too long and the moments when hindsight made everything look a lot clearer than it felt at the time. Plus, listeners share the balls they wish they hadn't dropped, the people they chased instead of their dreams, the grudges they held too long and the choices that seemed like failures but ultimately led them somewhere better. Because sometimes a fumble is just a fumble, and sometimes dropping one ball is how you finally get your hands free to catch another.

EPISODE 41: Funerals Gone Wild Dying Laughing with Jessimae Funerals bring together grief, family dysfunction, exes, old grudges, religion, money, alcohol and sometimes an actual dead body, then expect everyone to behave normally. What could possibly go wrong? This week, Jessimae shares a bizarre story from her dad's funeral and dives into listeners' wildest funeral stories: family drama, inappropriate behavior, strange traditions and moments so insane you have to laugh. Welcome to Funerals Gone Wild.

EPISODE 41: Funerals Gone Wild Dying Laughing with Jessimae Funerals bring together grief, family dysfunction, exes, old grudges, religion, money, alcohol and sometimes an actual dead body, then expect everyone to behave normally. What could possibly go wrong? This week, Jessimae shares a bizarre story from her dad's funeral and dives into listeners' wildest funeral stories: family drama, inappropriate behavior, strange traditions and moments so insane you have to laugh. Welcome to Funerals Gone Wild.

EPISODE 40: Putting the FUN in Funeral | Dan the Funeral Man Dying Laughing with Jessimae Jessimae sits down with Dan the Funeral Man, a funeral director from Salem, Ohio who's putting some much-needed personality back into death. Think hot pink caskets, leopard-print urns, custom memorials and final send-offs that actually look like the person being remembered. Dan takes us behind the curtain of the funeral industry to answer the questions everyone secretly wants to ask: What happens to our bodies after we die? What does embalming actually do? Why are funerals so expensive? What should grieving families spend money on, and what can they skip? And, of course, what are the wildest things he's witnessed at a funeral? They also explore why funeral customs are changing, how families can create more personal celebrations of life, and what spending every day around death has taught Dan about grief, regret and being alive. Because if you lived loud, why the hell should you be buried beige?

EPISODE 40: Putting the FUN in Funeral | Dan the Funeral Man Dying Laughing with Jessimae Jessimae sits down with Dan the Funeral Man, a funeral director from Salem, Ohio who's putting some much-needed personality back into death. Think hot pink caskets, leopard-print urns, custom memorials and final send-offs that actually look like the person being remembered. Dan takes us behind the curtain of the funeral industry to answer the questions everyone secretly wants to ask: What happens to our bodies after we die? What does embalming actually do? Why are funerals so expensive? What should grieving families spend money on, and what can they skip? And, of course, what are the wildest things he's witnessed at a funeral? They also explore why funeral customs are changing, how families can create more personal celebrations of life, and what spending every day around death has taught Dan about grief, regret and being alive. Because if you lived loud, why the hell should you be buried beige?

EPISODE.39: When Should You Say Goodbye to a Pet? Dying Laughing with Jessimae Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest decisions we'll ever make—but how do you know when it's the right time? In this episode, Jessimae explores the heartbreaking question every pet owner eventually faces: What makes a good quality of life, and when does holding on become holding them back? Inspired by a moving article written by a palliative care physician, she dives into the world of pet hospice, quality-of-life assessments, pain management, and why animals often hide their suffering until the very end. Jessimae also shares the deeply personal story of saying goodbye to her soul dog, Carlin, and how she ultimately knew it was time. Along the way, she discusses the emotional weight of euthanasia, the surprising similarities between human and veterinary hospice care, and why sometimes the greatest act of love is letting go on a good day instead of waiting for the worst one. Whether you're grieving a pet, caring for an aging companion, or simply want to be better prepared for one of life's most difficult moments, this episode offers compassion, practical guidance, and a reminder that loving our animals also means knowing when to say goodbye.

EPISODE.39: When Should You Say Goodbye to a Pet? Dying Laughing with Jessimae Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest decisions we'll ever make—but how do you know when it's the right time? In this episode, Jessimae explores the heartbreaking question every pet owner eventually faces: What makes a good quality of life, and when does holding on become holding them back? Inspired by a moving article written by a palliative care physician, she dives into the world of pet hospice, quality-of-life assessments, pain management, and why animals often hide their suffering until the very end. Jessimae also shares the deeply personal story of saying goodbye to her soul dog, Carlin, and how she ultimately knew it was time. Along the way, she discusses the emotional weight of euthanasia, the surprising similarities between human and veterinary hospice care, and why sometimes the greatest act of love is letting go on a good day instead of waiting for the worst one. Whether you're grieving a pet, caring for an aging companion, or simply want to be better prepared for one of life's most difficult moments, this episode offers compassion, practical guidance, and a reminder that loving our animals also means knowing when to say goodbye.

EPISODE 38: Can Jimothy Save Us All? Dying Laughing with Jessimae This week, Jessimae takes a break from the heavy stuff to embrace the wonderfully absurd. From an unbelievable sugar daddy story involving a very alive wife and a dead mouse, to sharks at water parks, AI teachers, Frankie Valli's seemingly immortal touring schedule, and the latest internet grifts, this episode explores the strange corners of modern life with humor, curiosity, and just enough existential dread. Somewhere along the way, one tiny raccoon named Jimothy emerges as humanity's best chance for survival. Because if the world keeps getting weirder... we're going to need him.

EPISODE 38: Can Jimothy Save Us All? Dying Laughing with Jessimae This week, Jessimae takes a break from the heavy stuff to embrace the wonderfully absurd. From an unbelievable sugar daddy story involving a very alive wife and a dead mouse, to sharks at water parks, AI teachers, Frankie Valli's seemingly immortal touring schedule, and the latest internet grifts, this episode explores the strange corners of modern life with humor, curiosity, and just enough existential dread. Somewhere along the way, one tiny raccoon named Jimothy emerges as humanity's best chance for survival. Because if the world keeps getting weirder... we're going to need him.

EPISODE 37: Holy Shit. I'm Dying, Now What? | Douglas Cartwright Dying Laughing with Jessimae What happens when death stops being a distant concept and becomes part of your daily reality? This week, Jessimae welcomes her longtime friend, former neighbor, author, life coach, and spiritual teacher Douglas Cartwright for one of the most honest conversations ever featured on Dying Laughing. Shortly after being diagnosed with terminal glioblastoma, Douglas shares how the news has transformed his relationship with identity, fear, faith, purpose, and what it truly means to be alive. Together, they explore the difference between surviving and living, discuss why so many of us postpone the lives we really want, and reflect on answers from listeners who were asked one simple question: What would you do if you found out you were going to die? This isn't a conversation about losing hope. It's a conversation about finding it in the time we have left. Doug's Book: Holy Shit! We're Alive! Now What? https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Sh-Were-Alive-What-ebook/dp/B099DH91MZ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NESWO85NCMGD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ohePGAoLTJ17ZxDjINBvU5T1T3OqYwuQcgU3pOoMPrs.z2soya-ttktIi87NS3OMkwpXO4kdEDMJqgAbfA5-9WI&dib_tag=se&keywords=holy+shit+we%27re+alive+now+what&qid=1784672884&sprefix=holy+shit+were+alive+now+wh%2Caps%2C239&sr=8-1

EPISODE 37: Holy Shit. I'm Dying, Now What? | Douglas Cartwright Dying Laughing with Jessimae What happens when death stops being a distant concept and becomes part of your daily reality? This week, Jessimae welcomes her longtime friend, former neighbor, author, life coach, and spiritual teacher Douglas Cartwright for one of the most honest conversations ever featured on Dying Laughing. Shortly after being diagnosed with terminal glioblastoma, Douglas shares how the news has transformed his relationship with identity, fear, faith, purpose, and what it truly means to be alive. Together, they explore the difference between surviving and living, discuss why so many of us postpone the lives we really want, and reflect on answers from listeners who were asked one simple question: What would you do if you found out you were going to die? This isn't a conversation about losing hope. It's a conversation about finding it in the time we have left. Doug's Book: Holy Shit! We're Alive! Now What? https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Sh-Were-Alive-What-ebook/dp/B099DH91MZ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NESWO85NCMGD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ohePGAoLTJ17ZxDjINBvU5T1T3OqYwuQcgU3pOoMPrs.z2soya-ttktIi87NS3OMkwpXO4kdEDMJqgAbfA5-9WI&dib_tag=se&keywords=holy+shit+we%27re+alive+now+what&qid=1784672884&sprefix=holy+shit+were+alive+now+wh%2Caps%2C239&sr=8-1

EPISODE 36: Roast In Peace: The Internet's Greatest Fails Pt.2  | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing with Jessimae  The funeral disasters keep coming... In this second installment of The Internet's Funniest Funeral Fails, Jessimae shares hilarious listener submissions, unforgettable Reddit funeral fails, outrageous coffin reviews, and some of the funniest headstones ever carved into stone. From mariachi bands and funeral crashers to accidental burials and epitaphs that deserve comedy awards, this episode celebrates the beautifully imperfect moments that remind us grief and laughter often show up together. Because even our final goodbye doesn't always go according to plan—and honestly, that's kind of comforting.

EPISODE 36: Roast In Peace: The Internet's Greatest Fails Pt.2  | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing with Jessimae  The funeral disasters keep coming... In this second installment of The Internet's Funniest Funeral Fails, Jessimae shares hilarious listener submissions, unforgettable Reddit funeral fails, outrageous coffin reviews, and some of the funniest headstones ever carved into stone. From mariachi bands and funeral crashers to accidental burials and epitaphs that deserve comedy awards, this episode celebrates the beautifully imperfect moments that remind us grief and laughter often show up together. Because even our final goodbye doesn't always go according to plan—and honestly, that's kind of comforting.

EPISODE 35: The Death of Who You Used to Be | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing with Jessimae  Sometimes the most important funeral you'll ever attend is your own. In this honest, funny, and deeply personal solo episode, Jessimae explores the grief that comes with personal transformation. From saying goodbye to people-pleasing, perfectionism, over-apologizing, and the need for external validation, she reflects on the parts of herself that no longer serve her, and the unexpected joy of becoming someone new. Along the way, she asks whether our greatest personality traits are sometimes just well-dressed trauma responses, shares the lessons she learned from symbolically attending her own funeral, and explains why healing isn't about becoming someone different, it's about uncovering who you've been all along. Because sometimes the greatest loss isn't another person. It's the version of yourself you're finally ready to thank... and let rest in peace.

EPISODE 35: The Death of Who You Used to Be | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing with Jessimae  Sometimes the most important funeral you'll ever attend is your own. In this honest, funny, and deeply personal solo episode, Jessimae explores the grief that comes with personal transformation. From saying goodbye to people-pleasing, perfectionism, over-apologizing, and the need for external validation, she reflects on the parts of herself that no longer serve her, and the unexpected joy of becoming someone new. Along the way, she asks whether our greatest personality traits are sometimes just well-dressed trauma responses, shares the lessons she learned from symbolically attending her own funeral, and explains why healing isn't about becoming someone different, it's about uncovering who you've been all along. Because sometimes the greatest loss isn't another person. It's the version of yourself you're finally ready to thank... and let rest in peace.

EPISODE 34: Roast in Peace: The Internet's Greatest Funeral Fails Pt. 1 | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing with Jessimae  What do a 200-pound Saint Bernard, a casket buried in the wrong grave, farting church chairs, and an accidental blast of Highway to Hell all have in common? They're all real funeral stories. In this lighter episode of Dying Laughing, Jessimae shares some of the internet's funniest funeral fails, reads hilarious headstones, reviews unforgettable coffin reviews, and reminds us that even in our darkest moments, life has a way of being wonderfully absurd. Because grief doesn't erase humor, it often reveals it. Come for the chaos. Stay for the epitaphs.

EPISODE 34: Roast in Peace: The Internet's Greatest Funeral Fails Pt. 1 | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing with Jessimae  What do a 200-pound Saint Bernard, a casket buried in the wrong grave, farting church chairs, and an accidental blast of Highway to Hell all have in common? They're all real funeral stories. In this lighter episode of Dying Laughing, Jessimae shares some of the internet's funniest funeral fails, reads hilarious headstones, reviews unforgettable coffin reviews, and reminds us that even in our darkest moments, life has a way of being wonderfully absurd. Because grief doesn't erase humor, it often reveals it. Come for the chaos. Stay for the epitaphs.

EPISODE 33: A Masterclass In How To Die | Johno Verity Dying Laughing with Jessimae What if the secret to living well is learning how to die well? This week on Dying Laughing, Jessimae sits down with filmmaker, BMX rider, and accidental internet philosopher Johno Verity. Known for his cinematic videos of riding through the quiet streets of London before the rest of the world wakes up, Johno has built a devoted following by reminding people of something simple: put down your phone and go live your life. Together, they discuss the pursuit of baseline happiness, the importance of brain health, creativity, movement, and why so many of us have forgotten how to be present. Johno also opens up about losing both his stepfather and father, and the unexpected lessons grief has taught him about purpose, perspective, and what really matters. This is a conversation about mortality, mental health, adventure, and finding joy in the ordinary moments we're usually too distracted to notice. Because sometimes the best masterclass in how to live... comes from understanding how to die.

EPISODE 33: A Masterclass In How To Die | Johno Verity Dying Laughing with Jessimae What if the secret to living well is learning how to die well? This week on Dying Laughing, Jessimae sits down with filmmaker, BMX rider, and accidental internet philosopher Johno Verity. Known for his cinematic videos of riding through the quiet streets of London before the rest of the world wakes up, Johno has built a devoted following by reminding people of something simple: put down your phone and go live your life. Together, they discuss the pursuit of baseline happiness, the importance of brain health, creativity, movement, and why so many of us have forgotten how to be present. Johno also opens up about losing both his stepfather and father, and the unexpected lessons grief has taught him about purpose, perspective, and what really matters. This is a conversation about mortality, mental health, adventure, and finding joy in the ordinary moments we're usually too distracted to notice. Because sometimes the best masterclass in how to live... comes from understanding how to die.

BONUS EPISODE: | JESSIMAE PELUSO Dying Laughing with Jessimae For this special Father's Day bonus episode, Jessimae opens the vault and shares a conversation recorded with her father in September of 2015, years before Alzheimer's would take so much from him. What begins as a casual father-daughter conversation quickly turns into a hilarious, heartfelt, and occasionally outrageous journey through family history. Together they discuss growing up in a large Italian family, discovering hidden branches of the family tree, a great-grandmother rumored to be a witch in Italy, shotgun weddings, family drama, gambling, addiction, marriage, fatherhood, and even a few alleged mafia connections. Funny, imperfect, wise, stubborn, and completely himself, this episode is more than a conversation. It's a time capsule. For anyone who has lost a parent, it's a reminder that grief doesn't just leave us with memories. Sometimes it leaves us with their voice. And sometimes, that's enough to make us laugh one more time.

BONUS EPISODE: | JESSIMAE PELUSO Dying Laughing with Jessimae For this special Father's Day bonus episode, Jessimae opens the vault and shares a conversation recorded with her father in September of 2015, years before Alzheimer's would take so much from him. What begins as a casual father-daughter conversation quickly turns into a hilarious, heartfelt, and occasionally outrageous journey through family history. Together they discuss growing up in a large Italian family, discovering hidden branches of the family tree, a great-grandmother rumored to be a witch in Italy, shotgun weddings, family drama, gambling, addiction, marriage, fatherhood, and even a few alleged mafia connections. Funny, imperfect, wise, stubborn, and completely himself, this episode is more than a conversation. It's a time capsule. For anyone who has lost a parent, it's a reminder that grief doesn't just leave us with memories. Sometimes it leaves us with their voice. And sometimes, that's enough to make us laugh one more time.

EPISODE 32: 10 WAYS TO CELEBRATE YOUR DEAD DAD ON FATHER'S DAY | JESSIMAE PELUSO Dying Laughing with Jessimae Father's Day can be complicated when your dad is gone. In this special Father's Day episode, Jessimae shares stories about her father, the qualities she admired most, the habits that drove her crazy, and the unexpected ways grief keeps our loved ones alive through memory, humor, and everyday rituals. Inspired by a touching story about a man who arranged to send a postcard after his death, Jessimae imagines what her dad's final message might have been and invites listeners to consider what their own loved ones would say. From heartfelt reflections to ten completely ridiculous ways to celebrate your dead dad on Father's Day, this episode is a reminder that grief and laughter are often closer together than we think. Because sometimes the best way to remember someone isn't by crying. It's by laughing at the things that made them unforgettable.

EPISODE 32: 10 WAYS TO CELEBRATE YOUR DEAD DAD ON FATHER'S DAY | JESSIMAE PELUSO Dying Laughing with Jessimae Father's Day can be complicated when your dad is gone. In this special Father's Day episode, Jessimae shares stories about her father, the qualities she admired most, the habits that drove her crazy, and the unexpected ways grief keeps our loved ones alive through memory, humor, and everyday rituals. Inspired by a touching story about a man who arranged to send a postcard after his death, Jessimae imagines what her dad's final message might have been and invites listeners to consider what their own loved ones would say. From heartfelt reflections to ten completely ridiculous ways to celebrate your dead dad on Father's Day, this episode is a reminder that grief and laughter are often closer together than we think. Because sometimes the best way to remember someone isn't by crying. It's by laughing at the things that made them unforgettable.

EPISODE 31: 5 CONVERSATIONS TO HAVE BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE | JESSIMAE PELUSO Dying Laughing with Jessimae  Inspired by a New York Times article about conversations to have with aging parents, Jessimae explores the questions we often wait too long to ask. After polling listeners about what they wish they'd known before a loved one died, this episode expands beyond healthcare and end-of-life planning into something deeper: understanding the people we love while they're still here. From family stories and biggest regrets to childhood memories, life lessons, and unspoken dreams, 5 Conversations To Have Before It's Too Late is a practical and heartfelt guide to preserving connection before it becomes memory. Because one day, the answers disappear, but the questions stay with us forever.

EPISODE 31: 5 CONVERSATIONS TO HAVE BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE | JESSIMAE PELUSO Dying Laughing with Jessimae  Inspired by a New York Times article about conversations to have with aging parents, Jessimae explores the questions we often wait too long to ask. After polling listeners about what they wish they'd known before a loved one died, this episode expands beyond healthcare and end-of-life planning into something deeper: understanding the people we love while they're still here. From family stories and biggest regrets to childhood memories, life lessons, and unspoken dreams, 5 Conversations To Have Before It's Too Late is a practical and heartfelt guide to preserving connection before it becomes memory. Because one day, the answers disappear, but the questions stay with us forever.

EPISODE 30: THE SOUND OF GRIEF with Guitar maker and widower, Micah Teruya. Dying Laughing with Jessimae Micah Teruya joins Dying Laughing to discuss losing his wife after her 7-year battle with A.L.L. leukemia, and the extraordinary way he honored her memory by building a guitar containing her ashes and wedding ring. Together, they explore grief, caregiving, creativity after loss, and how pain can transform both art and identity. A moving conversation about love, resilience, and the unexpected gifts grief can leave behind.

EPISODE 30: THE SOUND OF GRIEF with Guitar maker and widower, Micah Teruya. Dying Laughing with Jessimae Micah Teruya joins Dying Laughing to discuss losing his wife after her 7-year battle with A.L.L. leukemia, and the extraordinary way he honored her memory by building a guitar containing her ashes and wedding ring. Together, they explore grief, caregiving, creativity after loss, and how pain can transform both art and identity. A moving conversation about love, resilience, and the unexpected gifts grief can leave behind.

EPISODE 29: THE ART OF GOING SILENT | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing  with Jessimae After stepping away for three months to finish her first book, Jessimae returns with an honest, funny, and unexpectedly emotional conversation about grief, burnout, creativity, and what happens when you stop feeding the machine long enough to hear yourself again. In this episode, she talks about the challenges of creative exhaustion, self-motivation, learning how to focus and how to use that focus to your advantage when building something meaningful. She also opens up about unlearning and undoing parts of who she thought she was, her experience at the Hoffman Institute, and the emotional chaos of writing honestly about family, grief… and exes while somewhat sober. Jessimae reflects on disappearing from the internet, the pressure of constant visibility, the strange state of the world while she was gone, and how some healing and transformation can only happen in private. Raw, reflective, and darkly funny, this episode marks the beginning of a new chapter for Dying Laughing.

EPISODE 29: THE ART OF GOING SILENT | Jessimae Peluso Dying Laughing  with Jessimae After stepping away for three months to finish her first book, Jessimae returns with an honest, funny, and unexpectedly emotional conversation about grief, burnout, creativity, and what happens when you stop feeding the machine long enough to hear yourself again. In this episode, she talks about the challenges of creative exhaustion, self-motivation, learning how to focus and how to use that focus to your advantage when building something meaningful. She also opens up about unlearning and undoing parts of who she thought she was, her experience at the Hoffman Institute, and the emotional chaos of writing honestly about family, grief… and exes while somewhat sober. Jessimae reflects on disappearing from the internet, the pressure of constant visibility, the strange state of the world while she was gone, and how some healing and transformation can only happen in private. Raw, reflective, and darkly funny, this episode marks the beginning of a new chapter for Dying Laughing.

EPISODE 28: WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE DIE | Hospice Nurse Julie McFadden Dying Laughing  with Jessimae Palliative care and hospice nurse Julie McFadden joins Dying Laughing for a calm, honest conversation about death, dying, and what actually matters at the end of life. Jess and Julie break down the real difference between palliative care and hospice, the biggest misconceptions around both, and why a comfortable death is often tied to privilege, access, and timing. They discuss what dying usually looks like in real life, how families can unintentionally make things harder, and what actually helps loved ones die with more dignity and grace. They also explore why death itself is often less scary than we imagine and close with a thoughtful reflection on what may happen to us on a spiritual level when we die. This episode is meant to reduce fear, offer clarity, and help listeners feel more prepared, not just for death, but for living.

EPISODE 28: WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE DIE | Hospice Nurse Julie McFadden Dying Laughing  with Jessimae Palliative care and hospice nurse Julie McFadden joins Dying Laughing for a calm, honest conversation about death, dying, and what actually matters at the end of life. Jess and Julie break down the real difference between palliative care and hospice, the biggest misconceptions around both, and why a comfortable death is often tied to privilege, access, and timing. They discuss what dying usually looks like in real life, how families can unintentionally make things harder, and what actually helps loved ones die with more dignity and grace. They also explore why death itself is often less scary than we imagine and close with a thoughtful reflection on what may happen to us on a spiritual level when we die. This episode is meant to reduce fear, offer clarity, and help listeners feel more prepared, not just for death, but for living.

EPISODE 27: THE ANGER STAGE OF GRIEF EXPLAINED Dying Laughing with Jessimae  Anger gets a bad reputation, but it's usually trying to tell you something. In this episode, I dig into the anger stage of grief and why anger is rarely about what we think it's about. We talk about how anger often comes from older, unprocessed pain, how it shows up as control, resentment, or “making deals with the universe,” and why ignoring it usually makes everything worse. I also break down famous angry pop culture characters, why we relate to them, and what they reveal about how society handles rage. Plus, I read listener submissions about the things that make them the most angry, from the deeply personal to the hilariously unhinged. This episode is honest, funny, and uncomfortable in the best way, because anger isn't the problem. Avoiding it is. ALAN WATTS on ANGER: https://youtu.be/Jd-lUSbMJAA?si=-LmdLE4VxiMSHKfV

EPISODE 27: THE ANGER STAGE OF GRIEF EXPLAINED Dying Laughing with Jessimae  Anger gets a bad reputation, but it's usually trying to tell you something. In this episode, I dig into the anger stage of grief and why anger is rarely about what we think it's about. We talk about how anger often comes from older, unprocessed pain, how it shows up as control, resentment, or “making deals with the universe,” and why ignoring it usually makes everything worse. I also break down famous angry pop culture characters, why we relate to them, and what they reveal about how society handles rage. Plus, I read listener submissions about the things that make them the most angry, from the deeply personal to the hilariously unhinged. This episode is honest, funny, and uncomfortable in the best way, because anger isn't the problem. Avoiding it is.

EPISODE 26: Why Humans Can't Let Go of Reality Dying Laughing with Jessimae  We're terrible at endings. We don't accept them, we negotiate with them. We upgrade them. We keep poking them like, “Are you sure sure?” This episode is about humans refusing finality and the wildly different ways that impulse shows up in real life. From Tom Brady cloning his dog, to a woman writing her own obituary, to a dad scheduling flowers from beyond the grave, to biology reminding us it does not negotiate, and finally to what happens when refusing to let go crosses an actual line, it's the same reality, the same discomfort, and very different coping skills. It's funny, it's uncomfortable, and it's extremely human.

EPISODE 26: Why Humans Can't Let Go of Reality Dying Laughing with Jessimae  We're terrible at endings. We don't accept them, we negotiate with them. We upgrade them. We keep poking them like, “Are you sure sure?” This episode is about humans refusing finality and the wildly different ways that impulse shows up in real life. From Tom Brady cloning his dog, to a woman writing her own obituary, to a dad scheduling flowers from beyond the grave, to biology reminding us it does not negotiate, and finally to what happens when refusing to let go crosses an actual line, it's the same reality, the same discomfort, and very different coping skills. It's funny, it's uncomfortable, and it's extremely human.

EPISODE 25: 20 LIFE LESSONS FROM 2025: Wine, Dogs, And the State of Play. Dying Laughing with Jessimae In Episode 25 of Dying Laughing, Jessimae reflects on the lessons of 2025 through a mix of pop culture moments and personal growth. She touches on everything from Katy Perry going to outer space and the film Sinners dominating the box office to Erika Kirk's weird "grief centered" world tour. From there, the episode dives into the lessons the year delivered including letting go, taking responsibility for healing, the grounding power of dogs, loss as a deeper understanding of love, self care as a non negotiable, manifestation as real life magic, wine as therapy, and why play remains the true home of joy. This episode is reflective, funny, and grounding and offers a reminder that growth often comes from both chaos and connection.

EPISODE 25: 20 LIFE LESSONS FROM 2025: Wine, Dogs, And the State of Play. Dying Laughing with Jessimae In Episode 25 of Dying Laughing, Jessimae reflects on the lessons of 2025 through a mix of pop culture moments and personal growth. She touches on everything from Katy Perry going to outer space and the film Sinners dominating the box office to Erika Kirk's weird "grief centered" world tour. From there, the episode dives into the lessons the year delivered including letting go, taking responsibility for healing, the grounding power of dogs, loss as a deeper understanding of love, self care as a non negotiable, manifestation as real life magic, wine as therapy, and why play remains the true home of joy. This episode is reflective, funny, and grounding and offers a reminder that growth often comes from both chaos and connection.

EPISODE 24: DYING LAUGHING'S HOLIDAY SURVIVAL GUIDE: CHRISTMAS EDITION Dying Laughing with Jessimae The holidays come with a lot of pressure to spend, perform, and recreate traditions exactly the way they've always been done. In this episode, Jessimae offers a different approach. Recorded with her niece in studio, Dying Laughing's Holiday Survival Guide: Christmas Edition is about ditching perfection and making Christmas fun and weird instead. Jessimae shares practical ways to lower expectations, break old rules, and find joy without overspending or emotionally spiraling. This episode is a reminder that you don't owe anyone a perfect holiday...you just deserve one that doesn't make you miserable.

EPISODE 24: DYING LAUGHING'S HOLIDAY SURVIVAL GUIDE: CHRISTMAS EDITION Dying Laughing with Jessimae The holidays come with a lot of pressure to spend, perform, and recreate traditions exactly the way they've always been done. In this episode, Jessimae offers a different approach. Recorded with her niece in studio, Dying Laughing's Holiday Survival Guide: Christmas Edition is about ditching perfection and making Christmas fun and weird instead. Jessimae shares practical ways to lower expectations, break old rules, and find joy without overspending or emotionally spiraling. This episode is a reminder that you don't owe anyone a perfect holiday...you just deserve one that doesn't make you miserable.

EPISODE 23: THE GRIEF OF JOY | JESSIMAE PELUSO Dying Laughing with Jessimae This episode explores what happens when joy and grief collide. In a week marked by devastating headlines including the mass shooting in Bondi and the loss of cultural icon Rob Reiner, Jessimae found herself coming off one of the most joyful comedy weekends of her career, and sitting with an uncomfortable question: Am I allowed to feel good right now? The Grief of Joy is a grounded, honest reflection on emotional whiplash, collective grief, and the guilt that can come with happiness during hard times. Jessimae unpacks why laughter isn't denial or disrespect, but a vital form of regulation and survival and how learning to hold both sorrow and joy is part of emotional adulthood. This episode is about honoring loss without shrinking joy, and allowing relief to exist without apology when the world feels heavy.

EPISODE 23: THE GRIEF OF JOY | JESSIMAE PELUSO Dying Laughing with Jessimae This episode explores what happens when joy and grief collide. In a week marked by devastating headlines including the mass shooting in Bondi and the loss of cultural icon Rob Reiner, Jessimae found herself coming off one of the most joyful comedy weekends of her career, and sitting with an uncomfortable question: Am I allowed to feel good right now? The Grief of Joy is a grounded, honest reflection on emotional whiplash, collective grief, and the guilt that can come with happiness during hard times. Jessimae unpacks why laughter isn't denial or disrespect, but a vital form of regulation and survival and how learning to hold both sorrow and joy is part of emotional adulthood. This episode is about honoring loss without shrinking joy, and allowing relief to exist without apology when the world feels heavy.

EPISODE 22: DYING LAUGHING'S HOLIDAY SURVIVAL — THANKSGIVING EDITION Dying Laughing with Jessimae In this special Thanksgiving episode, Jessimae Peluso returns to her hometown of Syracuse, NY to share a comedic and heartfelt Holiday Survival Guide. From family dynamics and childhood nostalgia to managing grief during the holidays, this episode blends humor, honesty, and practical emotional tools. Jessimae covers micro-joys, boundary-setting, holiday triggers, and the surprising science behind gratitude, drawing from researchers like Dr. Robert Emmons (UC Davis), Sue Johnson, and Amir Levine. She also offers coping strategies for political conversations, unsolicited questions, and the chaotic energy of Thanksgiving Eve - the biggest bar night of the year. A warm, relatable, and laugh-out-loud guide for anyone navigating the complexity of the holidays.

EPISODE 22: DYING LAUGHING'S HOLIDAY SURVIVAL — THANKSGIVING EDITION Dying Laughing with Jessimae In this special Thanksgiving episode, Jessimae Peluso returns to her hometown of Syracuse, NY to share a comedic and heartfelt Holiday Survival Guide. From family dynamics and childhood nostalgia to managing grief during the holidays, this episode blends humor, honesty, and practical emotional tools. Jessimae covers micro-joys, boundary-setting, holiday triggers, and the surprising science behind gratitude, drawing from researchers like Dr. Robert Emmons (UC Davis), Sue Johnson, and Amir Levine. She also offers coping strategies for political conversations, unsolicited questions, and the chaotic energy of Thanksgiving Eve - the biggest bar night of the year. A warm, relatable, and laugh-out-loud guide for anyone navigating the complexity of the holidays.

EPISODE 21: FEAR & LOAFING — HOW GRIEF CONSUMES YOU Dying Laughing with Jessimae In this rereleased episode,  (Part 6 of Grief Survival Guide miniseries) Fear & Loafing: How Grief Consumes You, Jessimae opens up about the ways she coped after losing both of her parents — from emotional eating and drinking to feeling unmotivated, inconsistent, and overwhelmed by fear. She explores how indulgence can become both a comfort and a cost during grief, and how loss can shift from agony into transformation through emotional excavation and self-awareness. If you've ever coped with grief through food, alcohol, avoidance, or anything in between, this honest and relatable episode will resonate deeply.

EPISODE 21: FEAR & LOAFING — HOW GRIEF CONSUMES YOU Dying Laughing with Jessimae In this rereleased episode,  (Part 6 of Grief Survival Guide miniseries) Fear & Loafing: How Grief Consumes You, Jessimae opens up about the ways she coped after losing both of her parents — from emotional eating and drinking to feeling unmotivated, inconsistent, and overwhelmed by fear. She explores how indulgence can become both a comfort and a cost during grief, and how loss can shift from agony into transformation through emotional excavation and self-awareness. If you've ever coped with grief through food, alcohol, avoidance, or anything in between, this honest and relatable episode will resonate deeply.

EPISODE 20: THE LANGUAGE OF LOSS Dying Laughing with Jessimae This episode is about the hardest gift we ever give — letting go. Jessimae shares what she learned from planning her dog Carlin's last day: how she knew it was time, the choice between home or hospital, and how even grief has its own language. It's tender, funny, and full of love because that's what Carlin gave her every single day.

EPISODE 20: THE LANGUAGE OF LOSS Dying Laughing with Jessimae This episode is about the hardest gift we ever give — letting go. Jessimae shares what she learned from planning her dog Carlin's last day: how she knew it was time, the choice between home or hospital, and how even grief has its own language. It's tender, funny, and full of love because that's what Carlin gave her every single day.