Obsessed With Death

In this episode, Rob and Greg discuss Anthony “TJ” Hoover, a man declared brain dead who woke up during organ harvesting surgery, raising questions about medical protocols and organ donation. Next, they talk about Barry Griffiths, who tragically stabbed himself while trying to separate frozen burgers, highlighting the risks of living alone. Finally, they explore a new exercise pill, LaKe, which mimics the effects of running a 10K without physical effort, and its potential impact on health and fitness.

Penny Smith, BSN, RN is a (US) nationally certified hospice and palliative care nurse, social media influencer and author of Influencing Death, Reframing Dying for Better Living. 

Comedian and Podcaster Greg Stone joins the final word as guest co-host, and to be honest, we didn't get into one story...but it's a great episode and you'll love it! I promise we'll get back to more stories next episode.

Watch Greg's Full Special - Greg Stone Nobody Presents

Grace Wethor is an award-winning actress, director, bestselling author, and leading advocate for brain cancer and pediatric health. Diagnosed with an untreatable brain tumor at 13, she turned her experience into a mission, working with the White House and Capitol Hill to advance legislation securing over $100 million in funding for youth healthcare. Her latest book, Seven Thompson & the Art of Remembering, is a global bestseller and available here.

We celebrate one year of The Final Word!

Thank you for listening!

Don't miss comedian Benny Blue's debut comedy special, Live From My Mother's Funeral, now streaming on YouTube!

In this episode, Rob and Gary kick things off by exploring the idea that having a lot of possessions is linked to mortality and death, with Rob sharing the strange reactions he gets when people realize he doesn’t own much. They then dive into fascinating new research on human aging, revealing that it occurs in two accelerated bursts rather than gradually, impacting cardiovascular health, metabolism, and immune function around ages 44 and 60. The conversation also touches on James Earl Jones' decision to preserve his iconic Darth Vader voice through AI for future Star Wars projects. Finally, they discuss NASA's upcoming rescue mission to the International Space Station and the challenges of safely bringing astronauts back to Earth.

Charley Burlock and Rob explore the tension between traditional private grief and the public nature of online mourning. Should we appreciate how the internet allows for a communal experience of mourning?

Read Charley's full article from The Atlantic.

My Brother Died. His Facebook Page Lives On.

The Final Word - A Monthly Series from Obsessed with Death!

In this episode Rob and Gary discuss some new funeral ideas that Rob would like to take place when he passes, Disney's legal battle to dismiss a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Jeffrey Piccolo, citing a prior arbitration agreement linked to his Disney+ subscription. We also cover the charges brought against two doctors, a personal assistant, and others in connection with the overdose death of actor Matthew Perry, exploring the tragic misuse of ketamine therapy and the exploitation of Perry's struggles with addiction.

Sheldon Solomon is a leading figure in psychology, known for his extensive research on the effects of death awareness on human behavior. His influential studies have not only advanced academic understanding but also reached wider audiences through impactful documentaries and publications.