Death and Friends

Latest Episodes:

S1 E11 | Y’all Gonna Make Me Lose My Mind, Up In Here, Up In Here: Guillotines and The French Revolution Jul 29, 2021

Show notes

Look, to be real honest with you, we put every single good joke we had about decapitation in the episode, so this description is just gonna be a load of nothing. Sorry. Anyway, Nash speaks French super badly in this one, so at least that’s something, right?

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N'allons-nous pas ramener les références de Brendan Fraser?

S1 E10 | It's Alive! Frankenstein? It's Galvanism, Grave Robbing, and The Manic Pixie Dream Girl Jul 22, 2021

Show notes

Brace yourself for a shocking tale that will leave you questioning the very essence of life and death! Witness the unforgettable account of Giovanni Aldini's electrifying experiment on George Foster's corpse in 1803. Picture this: an operating theater in Newgate, London, packed with an anxious audience, eyes glued to a lifeless body. As Aldini cranks up the voltage, Foster's body convulses and grimaces in a macabre dance, blurring the lines between the living and the dead. This episode of Death and Friends captures the chilling atmosphere and the morbid curiosity that defined an era obsessed with reanimation and the mysteries of electricity.

But that's not all—travel back to the Age of Enlightenment where scientific rivalries sparked groundbreaking discoveries. We journey through the contentious relationship between Luigi Galvani and Alessandro Volta. Galvani's experiments with frog legs and his theory of "animal electricity" faced fierce opposition from Volta, who believed the key lay in the metal rods, not the electricity itself. This heated debate didn't just end in laboratories; it inspired literary giants and influenced the creation of Frankenstein. Join us as we blend humor and historical context to illuminate how these early scientific endeavors dared to push the boundaries of what we know about life, death, and everything in between.

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Topics:

Reanimation, Age of Enlightenment, Science, Human Curiosity, Luigi Galvani, Alessandro Volta, Frankenstein, History, Macabre, Wit, Insight, Scientific Fervor, Experiment, Electrifying, Grotesque, Convulsions, Grimaces, Dark Fascination, Professional Rival, Metal Rods, Animal Electricity, Frog Legs, Groundbreaking Work, Mary Shelley

S1 E9 | Edgar Allan Whoa and Why You Should Just Go Ahead And Write Your Own Obituary Jul 15, 2021

Show notes

Discover the shocking truths and wild theories behind Edgar Allan Poe's mysterious death. Was he a victim of rabies, a brain tumor, or something even more sinister? Join us as we piece together his final days and challenge the traditional narrative with fresh medical insights that reveal a perplexing web of possibilities. From his eerie discovery in a Baltimore gutter to the dubious first obituary that shaped his dark legacy, prepare to be both enlightened and entertained.

But we don't stop there—get ready for a whimsical ride as we imagine Poe surviving past 1849 and becoming an unexpected influencer in modern pop culture. Picture Edgar Allan Poe contributing to "The Black Parade" and "Pirates of the Caribbean," and even embracing a quirky alternate identity as a famous Mexican named Edgar. It's a blend of historical intrigue, medical mysteries, and playful humor that promises to leave you with a new appreciation for the life and legacy of one of America's most enigmatic writers.

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Topics:

Edgar Allan Poe, Obituaries, Death, Mystery, Medical Insights, Historical Facts, Brain Tumor, Phrenitis, Fictional Legacy, Pop Culture, Humor, Baltimore, Boston, Orphan, Wealthy, Temperance, Blind Study, Brain Swelling, Mexican Heritage, Literary Homage

S1 E8 | Ritual Killings in Meso America and Other Recipes for Your Summer Get Together Jul 08, 2021

Show notes

Join us on this journey into the heart of Mesoamerica as we explore the fascinating world of the Aztecs, particularly focusing on their origins, culture, and mythology. Listen in as we unravel the complexities behind the term "Aztec," which encompasses various tribes with the Mexica being the most dominant. Guided by the god Huitzilopochtli, the Mexica made their way to the Valley of Mexico, eventually settling by Lake Texcoco despite initial conflicts. This episode is rich with tales from their storied past, including the chilling narrative of a royal marriage meant to appease Huitzilopochtli, illustrating the darker facets of their culture such as human sacrifice.

We also spotlight the impressive achievements of the Aztec Empire under leaders like Montezuma I and Ahuizotl, highlighting their expansive reach and remarkable engineering feats like the Templo Mayor. Discover how their daily rituals and extreme religious practices, including mass sacrifices and bloodletting, were aimed at maintaining cosmic balance. Amidst this historical journey, we inject humor and banter, lightening the narrative with pop culture references and playful struggles with pronunciation. The episode wraps up with a cliffhanger introduction to an upcoming segment on medical facts, ensuring you'll want to tune in for more.

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Join the army of skeletons! ... wait it's called "Skeleton Army"? No it's better I've just been saying it wrong for weeks now.

⁠⁠Follow us on BlueSky(@deathandfriends.bsky.social)⁠⁠

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⁠⁠This is a KnaveryInk podcast.⁠

Topics:

Aztec, Mesoamerica, Mexica, Huitzilopochtli, Lake Texcoco, Valley of Mexico, Human Sacrifice, Montezuma I, Ahuizotl, Templo Mayor, Engineering, Religious Beliefs, Cosmic Balance, Medical Facts, History, Comedy, Podcast, Cultural References, Pronunciation, Translation

S1 E7 | Tell Cersei It Was Locusta: Poison Is This Woman’s Weapon and She Used It to Bring Down Rome Jul 01, 2021

Show notes

Ever wonder how a king tried to poison-proof himself but ended up in the most ironic of deaths? Or how a cunning Roman empress used deadly nightshade to clear the path for her power-hungry son? Join us on Death and Friends as we explore the twisted and tantalizing tales of history's most infamous poisoners. We start with a playful nod to rock documentaries, then plunge into the dark and curious history of poison—from early human discoveries to high-stakes political assassinations. Marvel at the story of Mithridates, who attempted to build immunity to poisons only to meet a grim fate marked by mutiny and an ironically failed suicide.

Feel the tension rise as we walk through the corridors of Ancient Rome, revealing the deadly power plays that brought Emperor Claudius’ rule to a venomous end. You'll learn about Agrippina the Younger's elaborate poison plot that paved the way for Nero's chaotic reign. And for a lighter twist, we sprinkle in some uproarious tales about bizarre remedies like "ass venom" and the peculiar importance of evening yogurt for vocal upkeep. Packed with dark humor, historical intrigue, and unexpected chuckles, this episode promises to keep you on the edge of your seat, whether you're a history buff or just in it for the laughs.

⁠⁠Support us on Patreon.⁠⁠

⁠⁠Follow us on BlueSky(@deathandfriends.bsky.social)⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Follow us on instagram(@deathandfriendspodcast)⁠⁠

⁠⁠Follow Nash Flynn @itsnashflynn.bsky.social ⁠⁠

⁠⁠Follow Angel Luna @GuerrillaJokes.bsky.social ⁠ ⁠⁠

⁠⁠This is a KnaveryInk podcast.⁠

Topics:

Poison, Poisoners, History, Infamous, Infamy, Mithridates, Nero, Agrippina, Roman, Emperor, Nightshade, Yogurt, Ass Venom, Assassinations, Humor, Dark, Macabre, Chuckles, Laughter, Chaos, Locusta

S1 E6 | The Origins of Vampirism: Elisabeth Bathory, Vlad the Impaler, and Other F**ked Up Sh** Jun 24, 2021

Show notes

Ever wondered how a 15th-century prince known for his brutal methods became the inspiration behind one of literature's most iconic vampires? Join us as we dig into the bloody history of Vlad the Impaler, the Prince of Wallachia, whose violent exploits and the symbolism of blood might have shaped Bram Stoker's Dracula. From Vlad's tumultuous rise to power and his infamous impalement techniques to his tragic end in battle, we navigate through a fascinating mix of dark humor and historical facts that bring this notorious figure to life.

But the horror doesn't end there. We also explore ancient and cultural practices to prevent the dead from becoming vampires, including decapitation and garlic-filled graves. Discover how diseases like porphyria and tuberculosis fed into vampire lore and catch the chilling tale of Mercy Brown, the "vampire" of Rhode Island. To lighten the mood, we share quirky personal anecdotes, quirky side stories, and even a surprisingly cheerful account of Elizabeth Bathory's horrific crimes. We wrap up with a cryptic personal experience, leaving a haunting question mark in your mind. Get ready for a wild, informative ride through the shadowy legends and realities of vampire history!

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⁠⁠This is a KnaveryInk podcast.⁠

Topics:

Vlad the Impaler, Bram Stoker, Dracula, Vampire History, Dark Humor, Blood Symbolism, Impalement, Ancient Cultures, Vampire Myths, Porphyria, Tuberculosis, Mercy Brown, Elizabeth Bathory, Jazz, Wicca, Witchcraft, Santeria, Personal Experience, Cryptic, Vampires, Vampirism

S1 E5 | Home is Where the Poisons Are: Everything In Your House Tried to Kill You in Victorian England Jun 17, 2021

Show notes

Did you know that your Victorian ancestors might have been slowly poisoned by their own walls? Join us on Death and Friends as we uncover the Victorian era's hidden household hazards. We'll take you through the deadly allure of arsenic-laden wallpaper and the dire consequences of poor home ventilation. Picture Victorian chemists, often without formal training, casually dispensing opiates and arsenic as miraculous cures. And if that wasn't enough, imagine pharmacies stocking fireworks and cholera treatments that included chloroform and opium. The Victorian home was anything but a safe refuge.

But the dangers didn't stop at the doorstep. Discover the explosive risks of methane-filled sewers and the lethal adulteration of everyday foods like bread and milk. From alum-tainted loaves causing severe health issues to borax-laced milk increasing the risk of deadly bovine tuberculosis, the era's public health landscape was a minefield. To lighten the mood, we shift gears with a quirky ASMR segment, taking a playful peek into Jeff's closet and his surprising Tweety Bird tattoo. Amidst the humor, we remind you that, despite the grim history lessons, you are loved and appreciated. This episode blends dark historical insights with a touch of comedy, ensuring you leave informed and entertained.

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Topics:

Victorian Era, Public Health, Arsenic, Wallpaper, Chemists, Opiates, Explosive Sewers, Adulterated Bread, Milk, Dark Historical Insights, Lighthearted Humor, ASMR, Quirky Closet, Affirmations, Tweety Bird Tattoo, Loved, Appreciated

S1 E4 | A Tale of Two Cities: Why Vesuvius Is the Scariest Mountain of All Time Jun 10, 2021

Show notes

Prepare to be transported back to the infamous year of 79 AD, where the streets of Pompeii were bustling with Roman life at its peak. Ever wondered what they did for fun? Spoiler: it involves a lot of public baths and some surprisingly cheeky graffiti, with male genitalia being a popular art theme. We’ll walk you through the everyday routines of Pompeians, offering both historical insight and plenty of laughs along the way.

Next, we grapple with Mount Vesuvius’s catastrophic eruption—a natural disaster so intense, it’s like "The Floor is Lava" meets nature's microwave. Using accounts from Pliny the Younger, we paint a vivid and darkly humorous picture of the chaos, panic, and sheer absurdity that unfolded. With our signature blend of grim jokes and modern-day comparisons, you'll understand the bizarre idea of what hell might have looked like during this disaster.

Finally, we dive into the aftermath, exploring how Pompeii and Herculaneum were preserved under layers of ash and debris. We uncover the fascinating process of creating plaster casts from the voids left by decomposed bodies and clarify some common misconceptions. Thanks to modern technology, we can now peep into ancient lives with even more clarity, all while keeping things irreverently humorous. Tune in for a rollercoaster of insights, laughs, and a few macabre moments as we bring ancient Pompeii to life.

⁠Support us on Patreon.⁠

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⁠This is a KnaveryInk podcast.

Topics:

Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Roman Life, Public Baths, Graffiti, Pliny the Younger, Destruction, Catastrophic Eruption, Pyroclastic Flows, Dark Humor, Ancient Life, Plaster Casts, Modern Technology, Medical Conditions, Historical Insights, Irreverent Humor

S1 E3 | The Potato Famine should be called The Great Hunger: British Empire on Their Absolute Bullshit Part 1 (of 1,089) Jun 03, 2021

Show notes

The British Empire's dark legacy still looms over Ireland, and we're here to pull back the curtain on centuries of tension, tragedy, and turmoil. Join us on Death and Friends as we peel back the layers of Irish-Anglo relations, starting with a cheeky critique of Boston's famine memorial—yes, the one awkwardly nestled among trendy eateries. From the profound impact of the Great Hunger to the messy aftermath of Brexit, we unravel the tangled web that is Northern Ireland's and the Republic of Ireland's shared history. Along the way, we ponder the weight of Tony Blair's apology and the echoes of British colonialism that still reverberate today.

Brace yourself for a deep dive into the harrowing details of the Irish Potato Famine. We'll unpack the catastrophic reliance on the blight-prone Irish Lumper potato and the horrific neglect by British authorities like Charles Trevelyan, who saw divine retribution where others saw human suffering. Dr. Angel joins us to break down the grisly medical realities of starvation, from hunger pangs to the fatal stages of malnutrition. Amidst the tragic history, we sprinkle in some dark humor and quirky anecdotes, including a curious nod to Tutankhamun's missing penis. This episode promises to be as enlightening as it is compelling.

⁠Support us on Patreon.⁠

⁠Follow us on BlueSky(@deathandfriends.bsky.social)⁠

⁠⁠Follow us on instagram(@deathandfriendspodcast)⁠

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⁠Follow Angel Luna @GuerrillaJokes.bsky.social ⁠ ⁠

⁠This is a KnaveryInk podcast.

Topics:

British Empire, Irish History, Irish-Anglo Relations, Great Hunger, Brexit, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Tony Blair, Irish Potato Famine, Starvation, Medical Realities, British Colonialism, Autophagia, Tutankhamun, Dark Humor, Historical Anecdotes

S1 E2 | King Tut Wasn't Murdered and Other Stories from Ancient Egypt May 27, 2021

Show notes

Join us on this spooky yet enlightening journey as we unravel the mysteries of ancient Egypt in "Exploring King Tut." We kick things off with the thrilling discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb by archaeologist Howard Carter and his benefactor, Lord Carnarvon, in November 1922. Experience the excitement and mystery surrounding the tomb's opening, including Carter's iconic words: "Yes, wonderful things." We'll also explore the humorous and intriguing dynamics between Carter and Carnarvon, and inject a bit of pop culture humor to keep the journey light-hearted.

Next, we venture into the reign of Akhenaten, one of Egypt's most controversial pharaohs. We'll discuss his dramatic shift from polytheism to the worship of a single god, Aten, and the upheaval it caused among his people. Discover the chaos following his death, including the enigmatic figures of Smenkhkare and Neferneferuaten, and how Tutankhamun and his successors sought to erase Akhenaten's legacy, restoring Egypt's traditional religious practices.

Lastly, we'll tackle the mystery surrounding King Tut's death. Explore Egyptologist Bob Breer's 1998 theory that Tut was murdered by his advisor Ay, who later took the throne. We'll sift through the evidence, including Tut's numerous health issues and the unusual findings in his x-rays, while considering alternative theories about his demise. To wrap it all up, enjoy a hilarious chapter filled with comedic mishaps and bloopers as we discuss the peculiarities of ancient Egyptian mummification and the strange rituals involved. Tune in for an episode packed with history, humor, and plenty of unexpected twists!

Brendan Fraser please love us. We are making a Skeleton Army for you.

⁠Support us on Patreon.⁠

⁠Follow us on BlueSky(@deathandfriends.bsky.social)⁠

⁠⁠Follow us on instagram(@deathandfriendspodcast)⁠

⁠Follow Nash Flynn @itsnashflynn.bsky.social ⁠

⁠Follow Angel Luna @GuerrillaJokes.bsky.social ⁠ ⁠

⁠This is a KnaveryInk podcast.

Topics:

Ancient Egypt, King Tutankhamun, Pharaoh, Archaeology, Howard Carter, Lord Carnarvon, Akhenaten, Monotheism, Murder, Mummification, Comedy, Podcast, Valley of the Kings, Tut's Tomb, Religious Shift, Succession, Conspiracy, Health Issues, Inbreeding, Bloopers

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