Best Kevin Lester Podcasts (2025)

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What Judaism Really Says About Death, Heaven & Reincarnation with Rabbi Manis Friedman (#224) 1:22:26

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12h ago1:22:26

1:22:26

Rabbi Manis Friedman joins me on DEAD Talks to unpack some of life’s biggest questions: Why are we here? Why do we fear death? What really happens after we die? From Judaism’s view on the afterlife, reincarnation, heaven, and resurrection, to the universal search for meaning and purpose — Rabbi Friedman breaks it all down with wisdom, clarity, and …

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Ricki Lake on Love, Loss & Finding Joy Again (#223) 1:09:34

7d ago1:09:34

1:09:34

Ricki Lake joins David on DEAD Talks to share her deeply personal journey through grief, resilience, and rediscovering joy. She opens up about losing her husband, the challenges of navigating heartbreak, and finding love again later in life. With candor and warmth, Ricki reflects on her career, her personal struggles, and the life lessons that emer…

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Ep 08 - Built to Imagine, Called to Lead: A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Kevin R. Johnson 1:01:45

12d ago1:01:45

1:01:45

From two rejection letters to the pulpit of Abyssinian. In this episode of The Ministry Exchange, Rev. Dr. Kevin R. Johnson unpacks a journey marked by resilience, prophetic courage, and legacy leadership. Now the 21st Senior Pastor of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, Dr. Johnson reflects on what it means to lead with conviction—ev…

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The Near-Death Experience That Changed Everything About Fear & Living with Anita Moorjani (#222) 1:14:27

14d ago1:14:27

1:14:27

In this deeply moving episode of DEAD Talks, David Ferrugio speaks with Anita Moorjani, internationally bestselling author and speaker, about her extraordinary near-death experience during end-stage cancer. Anita shares how she slipped into a coma, left her body, and experienced a state of pure love, awareness, and connection — and how this transfo…

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Parkland School Shooting: A Mother’s Story of Loss and Grief (#221) 46:27

21d ago46:27

46:27

Patricia Oliver, mother of Joaquin “Guac” Oliver, joins David Ferrugio on the DEAD Talks Podcast to share her journey of grief, resilience, and advocacy after the Parkland school shooting. Patricia opens up about losing her son in the tragedy, transforming unimaginable pain into purpose, and building a legacy of change in his honor. Through Change …

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Ep 07 - Ministry In Every Key: A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller 53:37

27d ago53:37

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In this episode of The Ministry Exchange, Dr. Alyn E. Waller returns to explore the sacred intersection of music and ministry—and why, for him, both have always been essential. Raised in a parsonage where his mother played piano and family harmonies sounded like Sam Cooke and James Brown, Dr. Waller found his voice early and never stopped using it—…

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What the Bible Really Says About Death, Heaven & the Afterlife (#220) 1:12:16

28d ago1:12:16

1:12:16

What does the Bible really say about death, heaven, and the afterlife? In this episode of DEAD Talks, David Ferrugio sits down with New Testament scholar Dr. Eric Zito to uncover the Bible’s true teachings on life after death, resurrection, and what Christian hope actually means. They explore some of the most misunderstood—and controversial—topics,…

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3 Years After Her Husband’s Death, Whitney Lyn Allen Shares What Really Helps (#219) 54:04

1M ago54:04

54:04

When Whitney Lyn Allen’s husband died suddenly in her arms, her entire world shattered. In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Whitney opens up about the shock of sudden death, the raw pain of early grief, and the signs that convinced her her husband was still with her. Now, three years later, Whitney reflects on what really helps in t…

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Ep 06 - Leadership That Builds People: A Conversation with Bishop Keith W. Reed Sr. 1:05:43

1M ago1:05:43

1:05:43

In this episode of The Ministry Exchange, Bishop Keith W. Reed Sr. shares the powerful leadership principles that have sustained his 43-year pastorate at Sharon Baptist Church in Philadelphia. With wisdom forged through decades of ministry, Bishop Reed recounts a pivotal shift in his leadership: choosing not to be a “one-man band,” but an orchestra…

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Gary Sinise on losing his son and his grief journey (#218) 1:00:24

1M ago1:00:24

1:00:24

Actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise opens up about the heartbreaking loss of his son Mac to a rare cancer and the personal grief journey that followed. In this moving episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Gary shares how service has kept him grounded, the role of fatherhood in shaping his healing, and the power of vulnerability in the face of loss. Thr…

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Surviving Against All Odds: Tom Nash on Life, Loss & Resilience (#217) 1:07:29

2M ago1:07:29

1:07:29

Tom Nash was given just a 2% chance to live when meningococcal septicemia changed his life forever at 19. The disease cost him both arms and legs, but instead of despair, Tom discovered a radical new perspective—reframing tragedy as a gift. In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Tom shares how surviving near-certain death gave him a ne…

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Ep 05 - Fruit That Remains: A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor Jr. 1:09:36

2M ago1:09:36

1:09:36

What does it mean to lead with vision, grace, and grit—while staying rooted in both tradition and innovation? In this episode of The Ministry Exchange, Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor Jr. joins Dr. J. Wendell Mapson Jr. for a rich conversation about legacy leadership, spiritual discernment, and building ministry that lasts. From growing up in South Jerse…

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Keri Hilson on Grief, Losing Her Father & Signs From the Afterlife (#216) 46:34

2M ago46:34

46:34

Grammy-nominated singer Keri Hilson joins the DEAD Talks Podcast to share her deeply personal journey of grief after losing her father in 2020. With raw honesty, Keri reflects on the pain of loss, the unexpected signs she’s received from the afterlife, and how her father’s presence continues to shape her life and career. From mystical encounters wi…

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Grief, Healing & the Power of Perspective (#215) 46:04

2M ago46:04

46:04

Medium Alysa Conger joins David Ferrugio on the DEAD Talks Podcast for an honest and unfiltered conversation about grief, healing, and the power of perspective. Together, they explore why the idea that grief can “get better” often triggers anger, and how belief systems shape the way we process loss. From trauma identity to the “glimmers” that bring…

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Ep 04 - Built For This: A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Danielle L. Brown 1:03:38

2M ago1:03:38

1:03:38

What does it look like to lead with clarity, courage, and consistency—across pulpits, classrooms, and communities? In this episode of The Ministry Exchange, Rev. Dr. Danielle L. Brown joins Dr. J. Wendell Mapson Jr. for a powerful conversation about calling, character, and the kind of leadership the Church needs today. From receiving her call to pr…

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What He Saw on the Other Side Changed Everything (#214) 1:28:00

2M ago1:28:00

1:28:00

After flatlining multiple times and surviving a traumatic brain injury, Landon Dennis shares his unforgettable near-death experience. From watching his own body in the back of an ambulance to standing in a glowing field where “even the grass loved him,” Landon’s story is a vivid glimpse into the afterlife. This raw, emotional, and deeply spiritual …

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9/11 South Tower Survivor: Brian Clark’s Incredible Escape (#213) 55:20

3M ago55:20

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Brian Clark is one of the few people who escaped from above the impact zone of the South Tower on 9/11. In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, host David Ferrugio sits down with Brian to hear his extraordinary firsthand account of survival from the World Trade Center. From being on the 84th floor on September 11th when Flight 175 struc…

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Ep 03 - The Call, The Cost and The Closure: A Conversation with Bishop Walter Thomas Sr. 1:35:18

3M ago1:35:18

1:35:18

What does it take to finish well—and set others up to begin? In this powerful episode of The Ministry Exchange, Rev. Dr. J. Wendell Mapson Jr. sits down with his lifelong friend and ministry brother, Bishop Walter S. Thomas Sr., Pastor Emeritus of New Psalmist Baptist Church. After 50 years of leading one of the nation’s most influential congregati…

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Near-Death on Ayahuasca & the Lessons of Buddhism | Jaymee Carpenter (#212) 1:14:33

3M ago1:14:33

1:14:33

Jaymee Carpenter shares a raw and soul-shaking story of addiction, near-death, and spiritual rebirth. After hitting rock bottom, a psychedelic ayahuasca experience left him face-to-face with death and changed everything. Through Tibetan Buddhism, Jaymee rewired his life, moving from darkness and despair to reflection, healing, and renewal. From his…

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What Death Taught Me About Life & Love with ALOK (#211) 50:17

3M ago50:17

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In this powerful and soul-stirring episode of DEAD Talks, David Ferrugio sits down with ALOK—internationally acclaimed author, poet, and performer—for one of the most profound conversations we’ve ever had. Together, they dive deep into death, grief, identity, the illusion of control, the meaning of presence, and how love and loss are forever intert…

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Ep 02 - Legacy, Ego and the Gospel: A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller 42:48

3M ago42:48

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What happens when ministry becomes performance—and pastors become personalities? In this episode of The Ministry Exchange, Dr. J. Wendell Mapson Jr. sits down with longtime friend and ministry peer Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller, Senior Pastor of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in Philadelphia. Together, they confront one of the most urgent questions facin…

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She Was Told She Had 6 Months to Live at 13 | Grace Wethor’s Story (#210) 58:55

3M ago58:55

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At 13 years old, Grace Wethor was told she had just 6 months to live. Ten years later, she’s not only alive—she’s thriving. In this inspiring episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Grace shares her remarkable story of survival, resilience, and purpose after being diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. From the fear of living with an 8% survival rate…

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Kevin Hines: Survived Jumping Off the Golden Gate Bridge (#209) 39:39

4M ago39:39

39:39

Kevin Hines is one of the few people in the world to survive a suicide attempt by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. In this deeply moving episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Kevin sits down with David Ferrugio to share the moment he believed his life was over—and the revelation, mid-fall, that he wanted to live. Now an internationally recognized m…

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Ep 01 - Is the Black Church Losing Its Fire? | The Ministry Exchange 23:50

4M ago23:50

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Church attendance is shifting. Leadership styles are evolving. Worship doesn’t sound—or feel—the same. So here’s the question no one wants to ask out loud: Is the Black Church still on fire… or just burning out? In this premiere episode, Dr. J. Wendell Mapson Jr. pulls back the curtain on the current state of the Black Church—what’s changed, what’s…

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Grieving a Pet: Rainbow Bridge Raina on Love, Euthanasia & Healing (#208) 36:47

4M ago36:47

36:47

Grief isn’t just for people—it’s for our pets too. In this heartfelt episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, David Ferrugio sits down with Jackie, also known as Rainbow Bridge Raina, a pet loss companion who helps people navigate the deep and often unspoken pain of losing a beloved animal. From the soul-level bond she shared with her dog Riley, to the c…

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Widowed Fatherhood: CJ Infantino on Grief, Anger & Raising Kids Alone (#207) 49:18

4M ago49:18

49:18

CJ Infantino had to learn how to raise his kids alone after losing his wife. In this raw and unfiltered episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, CJ opens up about the devastation of becoming a solo father to three kids, the identity crisis that followed, and how grief and anger shaped his journey. From anticipatory grief and mental health struggles to fi…

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Comedian Trae Crowder: Humor, Grief & Searching for the Afterlife (#206) 1:06:34

4M ago1:06:34

1:06:34

Comedian Trae Crowder joins the DEAD Talks Podcast for an unexpectedly deep and unfiltered conversation about death, grief, religion, and the afterlife. Known for his sharp wit and Southern voice, Trae opens up about losing his father and grandfather, growing up in rural Tennessee, and the vivid dream that forever changed how he views death. From a…

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Dr. Jessica Zucker on Miscarriage, Pregnancy Loss & Breaking the Silence (#205) 41:26

4M ago41:26

41:26

Dr. Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles–based psychologist specializing in reproductive health and the author of the award-winning book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement. She is also the creator of the viral #IHadaMiscarriage campaign, which has helped millions of people worldwide feel less alone in their grief. In this powerful episode of the …

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A 10-Year-Old’s Brilliant Perspective on Life, Death & the Afterlife | Sean the Science Kid (#204) 34:57

5M ago34:57

34:57

What can a 10-year-old teach us about life, death, and the afterlife? More than you’d think. In this enlightening episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Sean the Science Kid blends science, spirituality, and philosophy in ways most adults never do. From the mysteries of souls and consciousness to multi-dimensional realities, Sean shares his remarkable …

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Fallon Farinacci: Surviving the Night Her Family Was Held Hostage & Murdered (#203) 1:09:44

5M ago1:09:44

1:09:44

Fallon Farinacci recounts the harrowing night her family was held hostage by a stalker in their small, tight-knit Métis community—a night that ended in the tragic murders of her parents. In this gripping episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Fallon shares her firsthand account of the threats, the failure of police protection, and the trauma that resha…

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The Pain of Watching a Parent Die: Grief, Anticipation & Life After Loss (#202) 1:06:03

5M ago1:06:03

1:06:03

What does it feel like to watch a parent die? In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, host David Ferrugio sits down with Grant Magdanz to explore the raw reality of losing a parent. Grant shares his deeply personal journey of grief during his father’s battle with leukemia, the emotional weight of anticipatory grief, and how he eventuall…

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Dana Carvey Shares Jokes About Being a Dad #143 7:08

5M ago7:08

7:08

Send us a text On this week's show, my good Friend Dana Carvey talks about his two Son';s...Dex & Tom. He shares with the audience what it is like having kids and how names and atitudes get formed. His examples include "Sting" and Mike Tyson"...very funny! Support the show Hosted by: R. Scott Edwards Please Write a Review: in-depth walk through for…

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Dan Soder on Grieving a Complicated Father & Finding Healing (#201) 1:15:24

5M ago1:15:24

1:15:24

Comedian Dan Soder opens up about losing both his father and sister at a young age, blending his signature comedic wit with raw honesty. He shares the complicated reality of grieving a difficult father, the impact of parental abandonment, and how those early traumas shaped his adult life. Through this vulnerable conversation, Dan reflects on: Using…

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Jay Leno Funny 80's Comedy Material #142 6:46

5M ago6:46

6:46

Send us a text Here is a short comedy set by Jay Leno recorded back in the early 80's. He honed his material at clubs like mine back in the day, and as you will hear, dated or not...Funny is Funny! Very good material relatable to all of the audience. Listen, Enjoy, & Share! Support the show Hosted by: R. Scott Edwards Please Write a Review: in-dept…

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Robert Edward Grant on Free Will, Fate & the Mysteries of the Universe (#200) 1:36:27

6M ago1:36:27

1:36:27

In this special 200th episode of DEAD Talks, host David Ferrugio sits down with Robert Edward Grant, a renowned polymath, entrepreneur, and thought leader, to explore life’s biggest questions: Is life predetermined? Do we really have free will? What is the true nature of reality? Robert shares profound insights on metaphysics, ancient philosophy, m…

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"St. Patrick's Day Special w/Bob Worley #141 5:41

6M ago5:41

5:41

Send us a text On this special Holiday episode of Comedy Appeteasers, comic and good Friend, Bob Worley shares his experience with this drinking holiday. Do Not follow his path; but enjoy the comedy as Bob tells us how he celebrated St. Patricks Day...even though, as usual, it doesn't go well. Scott Edwards and Bob Worley bring a unique and humorou…

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His Astonishing Near-Death Experience After a Train Accident | David Ditchfield (#199) 1:02:46

6M ago1:02:46

1:02:46

David Ditchfield’s near-death experience (NDE) is one of the most extraordinary stories ever shared on DEAD Talks. After being dragged under a speeding train and surviving against all odds, David encountered an afterlife experience that changed his life forever. In this powerful conversation, he recounts: The moment of his brush with death The pres…

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From SNL- Dana Carvey at "Laughs Unlimited" 6:41

6M ago6:41

6:41

Send us a text Really fun short bit of standup comedy by Dana Carvey back in 1983 when he was a "Featured Act". You will hear a young Host (me) and Dana as we entertain the club audience. He references smoking as it was still allowed in those days. We did have a Non-smoking section; but really... did it matter, ha! Very funny and loose as usual, Da…

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He Lost His Brother Before a UFC Fight | Cody Stamann on Grief & Resilience (#198) 53:01

6M ago53:01

53:01

UFC fighter Cody Stamann faced his toughest battle outside the octagon: losing his brother to a tragic overdose just one week before a major fight in 2020. Instead of backing out, Cody stepped into the cage and fought while carrying the weight of his grief. In this raw and emotional episode of DEAD Talks, Cody opens up about: The shock and heartbre…

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TV Interview with Comedy Team "Mack & Jamie" #139 4:52

6M ago4:52

4:52

Send us a text Mack Dryden and Jamie Alcroft, celebrated as the dynamic comedy duo Mac and Jamie, have long championed the power of comedy to bring joy and laughter to audiences worldwide. Originating from a theater company in Key West, Florida, they transitioned into the world of syndicated comedy, producing an astounding 125 shows in a single yea…

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The Right to Die: Ethics of Euthanasia & Mental Health (#197) 55:30

6M ago55:30

55:30

At just 28 years old, contemporary artist and writer Joseph Awuah-Darko opens up about his struggles with chronic bipolar disorder, loneliness, and the bureaucratic process of assisted euthanasia in the Netherlands. In this episode of DEAD Talks, we explore: The controversial ethics of euthanasia and the “right to die” Men’s mental health, stigma, …

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TV News Interview w/Willie Tyler & Lester, Professional Ventriloquist #138 7:50

6M ago7:50

7:50

Send us a text Comic ventriloquist Willie Tyler, and his pal, Lester; do a TV interview from back in 1984. Lester gets in lots of jokes, and Willie shares how he also does music in his shows...and why. Great interview and short comedy entertainment from this Evening News Interview. Willie Tyler, a renowned ventriloquist known for his captivating pe…

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The Science of Grief: How the Brain & Body Process Loss (#196) 50:10

7M ago50:10

50:10

Why does grief feel so overwhelming—mentally, physically, and emotionally? In this fascinating episode of DEAD Talks, grief scientist Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor breaks down the biology of loss and what happens inside the brain and body when we mourn. As a leader in the study of prolonged grief disorder, Dr. O’Connor explores: Why grief feels like a …

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"Vague But True" by Tim Bedore Show #137 6:33

7M ago6:33

6:33

Send us a text Comic Tim Bedore shares another of his famous "Vague But True" segments as heard on the Bob & Tom Radio Show Nationwide. Tim crafted this special piece just for us, so listen to his wisdom and enjoy...Ha! Tim Bedore is a celebrated comedian renowned for his masterful comedic storytelling, particularly through his segment "Vague but T…

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Living After Loss: Finding Life Again After Losing Your Greatest Love (#195) 54:45

7M ago54:45

54:45

What happens when the love of your life is suddenly gone? In this heartfelt episode of DEAD Talks, entrepreneur and author Loren Ridinger shares her journey through the devastating loss of her husband, the lessons he left behind, and how she continues to find meaning, purpose, and love in life. Loren opens up about: Grief, resilience, and rebuildin…

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Jeff Altman & Jeff DeHart on TV's "Weeknight" Show #136 6:30

7M ago6:30

6:30

Send us a text On this audio version of "Weeknight" TV Show, comic actor Jeff Altman shares some show business info, and then Comic/impressionist Jeff DeHart shares a few impressions. All part of the Opening Night of my Laughs Unlimited new location...and Aprils Fools day! Our good Friends Harry Martin and Betty Vasquez were the show's anchors...ve…

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Comedian Ari Shaffir on Religion, Death & What Comes After (#194) 1:11:43

7M ago1:11:43

1:11:43

In this provocative and hilarious episode of DEAD Talks, comedian Ari Shaffir joins David Ferrugio for a conversation that dives deep into religion, death, and the afterlife—through the raw and unapologetic lens only Ari can bring. From psychedelic trips to personal encounters with mortality, Ari shares candid stories and challenges traditional bel…

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Del Van Dyke Stars at Laughs Unlimited show #135 6:34

7M ago6:34

6:34

Send us a text Here are a few minutes of fun standup comedy by Headliner Del Van Dyke as recorded LIVE at my comedy club Laughs Unlimited. Del was a Sacramento local comic who worked often for me. He got some TV exposure, and was always good with the crowds. Listen and Enjoy his humor! Del Van Dyke, a stand-up comedian hailing from Sacramento, has …

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From Grief to Mediumship: Connecting With the Other Side (#193) 50:20

7M ago50:20

50:20

What if profound loss could open the door to a deeper spiritual connection? In this moving episode of DEAD Talks, Charlotte Helliker shares her journey from devastating grief to discovering her mediumship abilities. Charlotte opens up about: How losing a loved one unlocked her ability to connect beyond the veil The powerful signs and messages she’s…

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"President Donald J. Trump" by Josh Rosen Show #134 5:52

7M ago5:52

5:52

Send us a text Josh Rosen, a renowned stand-up comic and impressionist from South Florida, has captivated audiences with his spot-on impersonations of political figures, most notably former President Donald Trump. As Trump embarks on another term, Rosen eagerly anticipates the opportunity to expand his comedic repertoire, using satire to exaggerate…