Death and Friends

Nash Flynn, Angel Luna, KnaveryInk

Have you ever wondered about death? Sure you have - after all, you're not Keanu Reeves, probably. As it turns out, humans have gotten pretty good at dying over the course of history - and we've really committed to the bit in a lot of (death)ways. Join comedians Nash Flynn and Angel Luna on a world history tour of death and dying. What's the worst that could happen?

  1. 11/06/2025

    S6 E2 | Jack Ze Killer: France’s Version of Jack the Ripper, Because They Could Not Let England One-Up Them… Again

    Join us as we unravel the bizarre life of Joseph Vacher, the 19th-century French criminal whose grim deeds and tragic beginnings make for a haunting yet strangely humorous tale.The chilling recount of Joseph Vacher’s violent crimes paints a terrifying portrait of fear and tragedy in rural France. We track his ruthless path from young shepherds to unsuspecting travelers, reflecting on the societal anxieties that his heinous acts amplified during the Belle Époque with sick hats, strange smells. You know, because of the gun. ⁠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.⁠⁠ Joseph Vacher, Bread-related Accident, French Family, Mental Health Care, Forensic Science, Poverty Politics, Master of Disguise, Asylums, Alienists, Mental Health Care System, Belle Époque, Serial Killer, Violence, Fear, Tragedy, Law Enforcement, Communication Challenges, Rural France, Murder, Vagabonds, Anarchists, Tabloid Sensationalism, Serial Killer, Violence, Fear, Tragedy, Law Enforcement, Communication Challenges, Rural France, Murder, Vagabonds, Anarchists, Tabloid Sensationalism

    42 min
  2. 10/02/2025

    S6 E1 | Finger Prince? I Hardly Know Him: How A Few Murders Led to The Creation of The Forensic Fingerprinting System

    Picture this: we're in the midst of a brainstorming for season six, and in an effort to impress a girl, we choose true crime. Can you imagine? Anyway this season is true crime.This episode is not just about thematic choice, kick off the season with us as we navigate the twists and turns of forensic history, starting in 1882 France, where the world of fingerprints take a giant step, there's a crime spree, and a french guy that will not let stuff go. Oh my! We back baby! ⁠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.⁠⁠ True Crime, Season Six, Pitches, Brainstorming, Paris, 1882, Metric Measurements, Mustachioed Masterminds, Forensic Science, Alphonse Bertillon, Facial Geometry, Criminal Identification, Fingerprinting, Stratton Brothers, Courtroom Drama, Expert Testimonies, Justice, French Thrusts, Comical Chaos, Workplace Dynamics, Cultural Sensitivity, Workplace Dynamics, Quirky Personalities, Historical Context, Advent, Dark Humor, Intriguing Narratives, Nepo Baby, Desk Job, Revolutionary, Criminal Identification, Physical Characteristics, Skepticism, Success, Prominence, French Police Force, Relatable, Scientific Achievements, Ravishol, Crimes, Execution, Fame, Ancient Babylonian, Chinese Practices, Johann Mayer, Sir William Herschel, Dr. Henry Folds, Uniqueness, Bengal, Japan, Modern Forensic Science, Humorous Commentary, Lightening, Grim Topic, Historic Case, Stratton Brothers, Alfred, Albert, Execution, Masks, Trial, Standard Practice, Europe, Expert Testimonies, Reliability, FBI, Technological Advancements, AI, Future Crime Scenes, Death, French Thrust, Mishaps, Misunderstandings, Life, Bur

    46 min
  3. D&F&F Ep3 | Cemetery tour of Graceland with Coimetromania (Grace Robbins) and Yes the Audio Gets Better

    10/31/2024

    D&F&F Ep3 | Cemetery tour of Graceland with Coimetromania (Grace Robbins) and Yes the Audio Gets Better

    Join us as we explore the rich tapestry of history, art, and mystery woven into Chicago's iconic Graceland Cemetery. This episode features the fascinating insights of cemetery tour guide and historian Coimetromania, our special guest, Grace Robbins. Together, we unravel the stories behind Graceland's founding by Thomas Barbour Bryan, who sought a serene resting place after the dismal conditions found in Chicago's City Cemetery. Discover how this historic site has become a distinguished landmark, not just for its picturesque landscapes but also for its role in revolutionizing cemetery design in the U.S. amidst an atmosphere full of intrigue. Journey with us through Graceland Cemetery's unique traditions and ecological endeavors, where prairie installations and buzzing beehives echo a commitment to biodiversity. We delve into the cemetery's multi-use spaces that connect people with nature, reflecting on the architectural evolution of its chapel and the significance of its historic oil-burning crematory. Hear the touching story of Douglas and Jerry, which underscores the emotional weight and foresight of pre-planning shared resting spaces. As the Chicago train rumbles by, it becomes a charming reminder of life continuing amidst the quietude of the graveyard. And what's a graveyard tour without a chilling ghost story? We uncover the eerie legend of Inez Clark, a young girl whose death in the 1880s has inspired tales of the supernatural. From myths about her statue vanishing during thunderstorms to the touching tokens left by visitors, Inez’s story captivates those who wander through Graceland. Finally, we celebrate cemeteries as vital community spaces, encouraging listeners to engage with their local cemetery culture. Whether picnicking, playing bagpipes, or simply exploring, these sites offer a vibrant blend of history and life. Discover the upcoming events and resources to immerse yourself in this fascinating world. ⁠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.⁠⁠⁠ Have you seen our NEWER and GAYER website? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.deathandfriends.gay/⁠⁠ Keywords: Graceland Cemetery, Chicago, Cemetery History, Cemetery Design, Cemetery Culture, Cemetery Traditions, Cemetery Events, Cemetery Resources, Cemetery Engagement, Cemetery Community, Cemetery Architecture, Cemetery Ghost Stories, Cemetery Hauntings, Cemetery Biodiversity, Cemetery Wildlife, Cemetery Multi-use Spaces, Cemetery Pre-planning, Cemetery Columbaria

    37 min
  4. D&F&F Ep2 | Epoch Preservation: History Brought Back to Life Through Gravestone Restoration

    09/05/2024

    D&F&F Ep2 | Epoch Preservation: History Brought Back to Life Through Gravestone Restoration

    Ever wondered what it takes to bring an overgrown and forgotten cemetery back to life? Rachel Meyer and Josh Gerloff from Epoch Preservation (@epochpreservation) join us to share their incredible journey of transforming neglected burial grounds into beautifully maintained historical sites. Starting with Rachel's groundbreaking research, they moved on to tackling an overgrown cemetery in Gloucester using everything from scythes to goats. Along the way, they discovered the rich history behind their business name "Epoch," which, despite its pronunciation challenges, holds deep historical significance. We also dive into the meticulous art of gravestone conservation, discussing the challenges of maintaining these historic sites in the face of climate change and other environmental factors. Rachel and Josh talk about their favorite gravestone iconography and the intriguing details left by unidentified carvers. They also highlight alternative pathways into the field, emphasizing the value of hands-on experience and community connections over expensive formal education. Their personal anecdotes add a touch of humor and humanity to this specialized field. What would you want your gravestone to look like? We get creative and a bit whimsical in a segment dedicated to envisioning our own unique gravestone designs—from holographic markers to animatronic weeping angels. The conversation then shifts to the eerie allure of death masks and safety coffins, wrapping up with the poignant story behind the face of CPR dummies. Rachel and Josh's passion for their work shines through, offering a fascinating blend of historical insights, personal stories, and a dash of humor. Don't miss out on this engaging episode that brings the past into the present with a light-hearted touch! ⁠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.⁠⁠⁠ Have you seen our NEWER and GAYER website? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.deathandfriends.gay/⁠⁠ Topics: Epoch Preservation, Gravestone Conservation, Cemetery Restoration, Historic Burial Grounds, Climate Change, Death Masks, Safety Coffins, Cemetery Preservation, Networking, Volunteering, Apprenticeships, Hands-on Experience, Community Connections, Creative Grave Designs, Burial Preferences, Death and Remembrance, Historical Insights, Personal Anecdotes, Burying Hill, Newburyport, Graveyard Preservation, Accessibility, Community Engagement

    53 min
  5. D&F&F Ep1 | Medieval Literature and Black Death revisited with Dr. Mary M. Alcaro

    08/08/2024

    D&F&F Ep1 | Medieval Literature and Black Death revisited with Dr. Mary M. Alcaro

    Dr. Mary M. Alcaro, a visiting assistant professor of literature at Bryn Mawr College, takes us on a captivating journey through the intersections of plague, trauma, and Middle English texts. This episode kicks off our new interview series with Dr. Alcaro, who shares her path from undergraduate curiosity to a dissertation on the social and psychological effects of the Black Death. Through her fascinating insights, we uncover the profound influence of the plague on language and its lasting impact on literary theory and the history of medicine. Filled with humor and introspection, this conversation shines a new light on medieval literature and its contemporary relevance. Our discussion takes a closer look at Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Book of the Duchess," highlighting how Chaucer subtly addresses the plague's impact without explicitly mentioning it. Dr. Alcaro explains the use of terms like "wound" to reflect the collective suffering of the audience, drawing intriguing parallels to modern-day euphemisms and the language of trauma. We also explore the concept of a "history of omission," where what is left unsaid can be as revealing as what is recorded, and how language evolves in response to shared traumatic experiences. This episode offers a thought-provoking examination of how literary works navigate the complexities of human grief and communal memory. Rounding out the episode, we delve into the unexpected connections between medieval melancholia and modern-day humor, uncovering tales that resonate with contemporary comedic sensibilities. Dr. Alcaro reflects on the historical context of forced positivity during pandemics, drawing parallels to our recent experiences with COVID-19. We contemplate the long-term impacts of the pandemic on literature and society, pondering how themes of disease, isolation, and sensory perception might shape future works. Join us for an engaging and often humorous exploration of trauma, literature, and the enduring human experience across the ages. ⁠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.⁠⁠⁠ Have you seen our NEWER and GAYER website? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.deathandfriends.gay/⁠⁠ Topics: Trauma, Literature, Middle English, Plague, Black Death, Language, Literary Theory, History of Medicine, Geoffrey Chaucer, The Book of the Duchess, Wound, Omission, Euphemisms, Traumatic Events, Melancholia, Plague Prophylaxis, Humor, Contemporary Relevance, Grief, Memory, Pandemic, COVID-19, Isolation, Sensory Perception, Post-Pandemic Society, Social Norms, Developmental Concerns, Autism, Quarantine, Social Class, Misinformation, Social Alienation, Disease, Endemic, Identity, Irony, Dr. Mary M. Alcaro

    52 min
4.9
out of 5
95 Ratings

About

Have you ever wondered about death? Sure you have - after all, you're not Keanu Reeves, probably. As it turns out, humans have gotten pretty good at dying over the course of history - and we've really committed to the bit in a lot of (death)ways. Join comedians Nash Flynn and Angel Luna on a world history tour of death and dying. What's the worst that could happen?

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