Dead Serious

What do you get when you mix a stand-up comic who got his start roasting Jeff Ross on Clubhouse, a funeral director with a catalog of human absurdity, and a guy who’s got bathroom codes for every Starbucks on Long Island? You get Dead Serious, Episode 119 - a hilarious, raw, and revealing conversation that sits at the intersection of hustle, humor, and humanity.In “Punchlines, Palms, and a Shot at the Spotlight,” we dig into the unlikely rise of Joseph Lombardo aka porkchopz - from managing construction projects to managing crowds with killer punchlines. He shares how the pandemic was the best thing that ever happened to him (comedy-wise), what it’s like performing in front of 600 elderly Boca retirees, and why some comedians are funnier in a funeral home than on stage.Along the way, the crew unpacks Long Island’s legendary roadways, the politics of lettuce on sandwiches, funeral home horror stories, and what it really means to bomb on stage. Whether you’re here for the laughs, the life lessons, or just the hot take on gay marriage stats - this one goes deep and doesn’t let up.⏱️ Timestamps[00:00] Intro[05:23] Swindlehurst, Helicopters, and Long Island Mayhem[12:47] From Clubhouse Roasts to Comedy Clubs[24:15] Bombing, Branding, and the Business of Being Funny[30:55] Outro

Welcome to another episode of Dead Serious, where we unpack the mysteries of life, death, and everything in between.In Episode 118, “Spirits Among Us,” we sit down with the captivating Bianca Rose - an evidential psychic medium, modern mystic, and self-described human Ouija board. Hosts Vin and JK ask the hard questions about the spirit world, the skeptics, and what really happens after we die.This isn't crystal ball fluff. From channeling spirits with terrifying accuracy to investigating haunted asylums and guiding families through grief, Bianca shares how she’s turned a gift rooted in childhood fear into a mission of connection, healing, and hard evidence.Prepare to question your beliefs, confront your doubts, and maybe even discover that your late loved ones aren’t as far away as you think.Timestamps:[00:00] Intro[05:23] “I’m Literally the Human Ouija Board”[12:47] Bianca’s First Encounters with Spirits[24:15] Duppy, Dark Entities, and Opening the Wrong Doors[30:55] Outro

Join hosts Vin and Jon on this fascinating episode of 'Dead Serious' as they dive into the intriguing world of metal detecting and historical exploration with special guest Frank Jurs. Discover the secrets beneath our feet her on Long Island, from Revolutionary War buttons to coins from the 1600s, and learn about the rich history embedded in the soil of Long Island. Frank shares his passion for unearthing centuries-old artifacts, the meticulous research required, and the thrill of holding a piece of history. This episode offers a deep dive into the past, connecting the dots between historical events and the artifacts that reveal them. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and captivating stories.00:58 The Podcasting Revolution: From Rogan to Local Voices10:03 Real Estate Insights: Long Island's Unique Market21:46 Metal Detecting Adventures: Unearthing History28:51 Colonial History and Early American Artifacts31:45 Arrowhead Hunting and Native American Artifacts34:15 Exploring Local History and Personal Discoveries49:39 Historical Sites and Cemeteries58:07 Living Conditions in Historical New York59:28 Military Buttons and Their Stories01:02:59 Colonial Coins and Their Significance01:09:55 Historical Landmarks and Their Stories01:15:42 Dream Excavation Sites

What happens when a nurse becomes the patient - and nearly loses it all?In this deeply personal and emotionally charged episode of Dead Serious, Vin sits down with Joanne, a veteran ER nurse whose life was turned upside down by a mysterious illness that left her fighting for survival. With raw honesty and a survivor’s wisdom, Joanne opens up about her near-death experience, the brutal aftermath, and how she’s rebuilding life with a new heart and a new perspective.This is more than a medical story - it's a philosophical reflection on resilience, modern healthcare, motherhood, and the unseen strength required to begin again after everything breaks.📌 Timestamps[00:00] Intro[05:23] Life Before It All Changed[12:47] The Day It Hit: Fever, Collapse, and Emergency Care[24:15] From Coma to Rebirth: Transplant, Recovery, and Perspective[30:55] Outro

Welcome to Dead Serious, the only show where mortality meets mystery with a side of sarcasm and Long Island wisdom. In this week's episode, "Is There Really a Body Farm in Farmingdale?", hosts Vin and JK dig into death - literally and philosophically.Is there a secret forensic cemetery hiding in plain sight on Long Island? Why do funerals cost more than your first car? What the hell is a “green burial” and why does it sound like a Whole Foods coupon? Vin - our resident funeral philosopher - and JK unpack the economics, the ethics, and the unexpected comedy behind the business of dying. Oh, and we also talk about mold-your-own-dildo kits and strip clubs. You’ve been warned.Prepare for a mix of dark humor, sharp insights, and unfiltered honesty as we explore death culture, celebrity body farms, funeral trends, and the occasional bizarre human behavior. Modern-day stoicism never smelled this much like embalming fluid.Timestamps[00:00] Intro – What is a “Body Farm” and why Farmingdale?[05:23] Babysitters, boob jobs, and the au pair apocalypse[12:47] Inside the Funeral Biz: Green burials, casket choices & corpse aesthetics[24:15] Celebrity Death Draft: Who's next? (Spoiler: It might be Flavor Flav)[30:55] Outro – Moist mics, strip club memories, and Theo Von philosophy

Welcome back to Dead Serious - the only podcast where a casual chat about cookies, Teslas, and parallel parking naturally ends with $10,000 taped to a funeral photo.In Episode 114, Vin and JK wax poetic like two blue-collar Socrates's. From the absurdities of modern dating to the existential hell of Ozempic face, this is philosophy in a black T-shirt - with a dash of nicotine gum and cremation ash.We question the simulation (again), debate if you can get away with murder on Long Island (you can’t), and discuss whether soft cookies are the gateway drug of adulthood (they are). Oh, and in case that wasn’t enough - someone really did find ten grand taped to a casket photo. Which begs the question: what are you burying with Nana?💀 Dead Serious starts with laughs, but somehow always ends with us questioning our mortality. Stick around. It's cheaper than therapy.👇 Timestamps[00:00] Intro – Long Island Serial Killers and Glitter on the Flowers[05:23] South Shore vs. North Shore Philosophy (and $600K shoebox houses)[12:47] Handsome Homebuyer, Real Estate Gurus & the Cringe Olympics[24:15] Cookies as Religion, Health Anxiety, and the Ozempic Side Hustle[30:55] Outro – AI Doctors, Parallel Parking Trauma, and Ten Grand in the Box

In this unforgettable episode, we dive into the extraordinary life of Kevin Shea - a man who went from surviving the South Tower collapse on 9/11 to building a futuristic geodesic dome in Long Island, powered by solar, wind, and geothermal energy. A modern philosopher with the soul of a fireman and the heart of an innovator, Kevin takes us on a raw, emotional, and often hilarious journey through trauma, resilience, and reinvention.🔥 From retrograde amnesia to Red Bull-fueled flirtations, to near-death experiences and underground pipelines - Kevin's story isn’t just a memoir; it’s a meditation on purpose, identity, and building something that lasts.This one goes deep. This one goes wide. This one goes full dome.👇 Timestamps:[00:00] Intro[05:23] Life Before 9/11 & Firehouse Culture[12:47] The 9/11 Story: South Tower, Collapse & Survival[24:15] From Healing to Building the Geodesic Dome[30:55] Outro & Reflections on Purpose

Welcome back to Dead Serious - where philosophy meets reality, and the only thing guaranteed is that we’re all just figuring it out.In this episode, JK and Vin sit down to answer every question you’ve ever had (and some you wish you didn’t) about the business of death. From what actually happens behind the scenes at a funeral home, to the psychological weight of dealing with grief daily, we go deep - no pun intended.We also talk about the shifting funeral industry, the growing corporate takeover of mom-and-pop funeral homes, and why dying has become so expensive. Plus, the strange rituals, surprising legalities, and unexpected moments that come with the job.If you’ve ever wondered about the real cost of a funeral, what goes into preserving a body, or why funerals are so important for the living, this one’s for you. No taboos. No fluff. Just real talk.Timestamps:00:32 Political Disgust and Anxiety05:55 Economic Struggles and High Costs07:02 Bird Flu and Egg Prices11:16 Government Inefficiency and Corruption19:38 Social Security and Future Concerns29:52 Balancing Work and Family Life35:08 Skiing with Kids43:46 Rat Encounters in the Subway47:54 Personal Loss and Coping Mechanisms53:45 Generational Differences and Financial Struggles56:07 Real Estate and Community Changes59:25 Funeral Industry Insights and Challenges01:06:09 Corporate Takeovers in the Funeral Business01:25:23 Political Views and Social Commentary

The harsh reality of Alzheimer’s, its evolving research, and the emotional toll on caregivers.Welcome back to Dead Serious, where we tackle life’s toughest conversations with brutal honesty and a touch of dark humor. In this episode, we dive deep into the devastating impact of Alzheimer’s—what it does to the brain, how families cope, and the latest research that’s challenging everything we thought we knew.From theories about Alzheimer’s being an autoimmune disease to the eerie connection between sugar and cognitive decline, we pull no punches in discussing the science, the heartbreak, and the unexpected moments of humor that arise in the face of it all.Timestamps:00:00 The Brain's Mysteries and Theories on Alzheimer's01:50 Classified Jobs and Government Work04:40 Career Shifts: From Kids to Geriatrics06:10 Psychiatric Stories and Schizophrenia11:42 Seizures and Workplace Trauma15:29 Alzheimer's: Symptoms, Misconceptions, and Care28:21 Music and Art Therapy for Dementia34:55 Navigating Assisted Living Decisions36:46 Raising Funds and Community Support38:47 Connecting Families with Resources50:10 Discussing Dementia and Alzheimer's01:02:57 Funeral Planning and Personal Reflections

This episode is all over the map—just the way we like it. From black squirrels in Uniondale to dogs in carriages, from the future of AI-powered funerals to the very real possibility of sex robots ruining civilization, we’re covering it all.We dive into:🔥 The weirdest emotional support animal you’ve ever heard of (spoiler: it’s in a baby carriage).🦌 A deep (and kind of reluctant) discussion on hunting, deer population control, and whether we’d actually pull the trigger.📱 The evolution of anxiety—are we all just hopelessly addicted to our phones?👀 Political theater and whether we’re all just pawns in a game that’s been playing us forever.💀 How AI is coming for the funeral business—holographic wakes, anyone?And, of course, a whole lot of nonsense in between 🤔00:53 Hunting and Ethical Dilemmas02:43 Political Commentary and Social Observations09:41 Health Anxiety and Modern Technology12:54 Funeral Home Stories and Emotional Moments25:51 Nostalgia and Modern Life30:56 Mediums and Skepticism37:21 Celebrity Moms and Their Influence39:38 Online Criticism and Keyboard Warriors40:59 Immigration and Deportation Issues46:13 Political Polarization and Media Influence49:18 AI and Its Impact on Society58:45 Conspiracy Theories and Government Distrust01:09:30 Social Media Personalities and Mental Health

In this episode of 'Dead Serious,' host Vincent Gilmor is joined by the crew of th 'Who Are These Guys?' podcast - Jesse, JK, and Kurt.  They dive deep into a variety of topics including post-holiday relief, family dynamics, the concept of death coming in threes, and some candid reflections on challenging moments between friends.  The conversation flows into parenting woes, handling sensitive situations, conspiracy theories, and even dabbling with the ideas of planning one's own funeral.  Tune in for an engaging mixture of humor, personal stories, and intriguing discussions. 00:00 Post-Holiday Reflections 04:31 Parenting Challenges and Sick Kids 11:09 Funeral Planning and Family Conflicts 17:14 VR Gaming Experiences 22:34 Conspiracy Theories and Misinformation 32:56 Drone Warfare and Robotics 35:21 Cartwheel Challenges and Fun 40:41 Funeral Stories and Reflections 56:29 Weight Struggles and Health 01:03:13 China's Population Policies and Government Control 01:07:37 Healthcare System Woes 01:17:57 The Struggle with Obesity and Lifestyle Choices 01:22:53 Bizarre Foods and Cultural Practices 01:29:09 Scams, Catfishing, and Online Deception 01:32:39 Funeral Preferences and Reflections

Step right up for a ringside seat as Steve, Dimitri, Elissa, and Vincent jab their way through the nitty-gritty (and hilariously gritty) details of this year’s Long Island Fight for Charity! From corporate execs-turned-boxers to amateur sparring matches that turned into accidental smackdowns, we’re unpacking the drama, laughs, and $100K charity check moments. It’s the ultimate mix of Rocky meets The Office, Long Island edition. A breakdown of the event logistics (and a near-arrest story that’s as Long Island as bagels and lox). 💪 Training tales from boxers learning to swing without knocking out the dentist. 🎉 Why Fight for Charity is also the best networking event on the island. 💡 Insight into the charities supported, including Eden II’s incredible autism programs. Think we’re pulling punches? Fuhgeddaboudit. Hit play to laugh, learn, and maybe get inspired to lace up next year.

Step right up for a ringside seat as Steve, Dimitri, Elissa, and Vincent jab their way through the nitty-gritty (and hilariously gritty) details of this year’s Long Island Fight for Charity! From corporate execs-turned-boxers to amateur sparring matches that turned into accidental smackdowns, we’re unpacking the drama, laughs, and $100K charity check moments. It’s the ultimate mix of Rocky meets The Office, Long Island edition. A breakdown of the event logistics (and a near-arrest story that’s as Long Island as bagels and lox). 💪 Training tales from boxers learning to swing without knocking out the dentist. 🎉 Why Fight for Charity is also the best networking event on the island. 💡 Insight into the charities supported, including Eden II’s incredible autism programs. Think we’re pulling punches? Fuhgeddaboudit. Hit play to laugh, learn, and maybe get inspired to lace up next year. Visit https://www.lifightforcharity.org/ to learn more 🥊

In this episode of 'Dead Serious,' host Vincent Gilmor sits down with Paul and Larry from The Original Salpinos Italian Market.  They delve into a variety of engaging topics, including the intricacies of running a family-operated market, their unique products, and the challenges and triumphs of expanding their business.  The conversation covers everything from family traditions and memorable stories, to their inspirations and the evolution of their product offerings.  Paul and Larry also share personal anecdotes about their lives, highlighting their passion for food, their family's history in business, and their experiences balancing work with personal life. 02:46 The History of Sal Pino's 04:03 Expanding the Business 09:36 Challenges and Rewards of Running a Family Business 25:35 Social Media and Marketing Strategies 36:52 Corporate vs. Family-Owned Businesses 40:09 Psychic Medium Experiences 53:31 Mozzarella Making Process 01:04:21 Skiing Adventures and Mishaps 01:10:16 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up  The Original Salpino’s Links Website - https://www.theoriginalsalpino.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theoriginalsalpinos/ Uber Eats - https://www.order.store/store/salpinos-food-market/zIbznEYhRSufjKB5a5m4EQ

In part 2 of this episode of 'Dead Serious,' host Vincent Gilmor sits down with Jennifer B. Cona of Cona Elder Law to explore the intricacies of elder law, funeral pre-planning, and end-of-life decision-making.  The discussion navigates the complexities of Medicaid applications, the emotional toll of planning for end-of-life, and the importance of ethical and proactive planning.  Themes such as managing work-life balance, emotional challenges associated with death, transparent communication, and reflections on career evolution and office culture are central.  Personal stories and cherished family moments, including memories of Lake George, highlight the interconnected nature of life, death, and legal responsibilities.  The episode blends serious legal advice with light-hearted anecdotes, providing a comprehensive look at the multifaceted world of elder law. 00:34 A Strange Case of Pre-Planning 03:27 The Weight of Guardianship Responsibilities 05:41 Financial Planning for Funerals 14:35 Balancing Business and Personal Life 16:52 Balancing Business and Personal Life 18:20 Responsibility Towards Employees 19:28 The Value of Pre-Planning 21:29 Managing a Growing Business 23:43 Office Dynamics and Culture 27:31 Personal Preferences and Traditions 29:08 Favorite Places and Drinks Cona Elder Law Links Website - https://conaelderlaw.com YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGiC3OMQNsp-YNOIf2TtUyQ/videos Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/conaelderlaw LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cona-elder-law/

In the latest episode of “Dead Serious”, Vincent Gilmor sits down with Jennifer Cona of Cona Elder Law to discuss the multifaceted world of elder care, memory care, and estate planning.  The conversation begins with insights from Jennifer on the significance of planning ahead for long-term care and the evolving landscape of elder law. The focus shifts to the emotional and logistical challenges faced in memory care facilities, and the impactful work of charitable organizations supporting Alzheimer's and dementia patients.  Personal stories from Vincent about pet rescue and the professional stresses of handling sensitive cases, such as funerals for children, add a poignant touch.  Jennifer & Vincent explore the complexities of estate planning, including the importance of wills, trusts, and advanced directives, and the delicate balance lawyers and funeral directors must maintain between compassion and professionalism in their service to clients and grieving families. 00:55 Navigating Personal and Professional Life 01:38 The Evolution of Elder Law 02:34 The Importance of Planning Ahead 06:17 The High Costs of Elder Care 09:19 Community and Philanthropy 10:28 Balancing Work and Personal Life 17:36 The Importance of Full Disclosure 19:13 Legal Complications of Multiple Families 21:21 Intestacy and Inheritance Rights 23:45 Challenges of Will Contests 25:22 Handling Difficult Clients 31:52 The Necessity of Preplanning 35:26 Guardianship and Preplanning Benefits Cona Elder Law Links Website - https://conaelderlaw.com YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGiC3OMQNsp-YNOIf2TtUyQ/videos Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/conaelderlaw LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cona-elder-law/

In part 2 of this episode of Dead Serious,' host Vincent Gilmor continues his conversation with UFC fighter turned Real Estate Broker, Al Iaquinta, as they navigate the landscapes of life, death, and everything in between.  Al continues to share stories of his time in the UFC, including encounters with famous personalities like Dana White and Donald Trump. Al inquires about Vincent’s line of work and they both reflect on the importance of pre-planning funerals.  The conversation delves into the unique camaraderie within MMA gyms and the transition to real estate. Candid discussions about family, children, and the future reveal the multifaceted nature of embracing both life and eventual passing. 00:31 Funeral Home Antics: Networking with a Twist 01:25 Prank Calls and Scam Stories 05:59 Family and Fatherhood: Passing on Values 09:14 Boating and Beach Life: South Shore Adventures 12:47 The Business of Death: Funeral Costs and Planning 17:26 Discussing Family Graves and Mausoleums 18:40 Understanding Cemetery Costs and Options 20:15 Pre-Planning Funerals for Peace of Mind 22:41 Normalizing Conversations About Death 31:35 Camaraderie in MMA Gyms 35:47 Upcoming Fight for Charity Event 36:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In part 1 of this episode of Dead Serious, host Vincent Gilmor chats with former UFC fighter turned real estate broker, Al Iaquinta of Iaquinta Real Estate.  They discuss Al's transition from the intensity of the octagon to the nuanced world of real estate, his experiences growing up, and the influence of a strong community.  Hear about his past fights, how he navigated his way into the UFC, and his approach to house hacking.  Al also shares insights on the current real estate market, examining trends and the challenges of buying and selling homes today on Long Island. 00:24 High School Memories and Mischief 01:42 Parental Influence and Early Sports 03:14 Transition to Professional Fighting 04:34 The Ultimate Fighter and UFC Journey 09:02 Facing Khabib: The Wildest Weekend 22:06 Balancing MMA and Real Estate 26:34 Natural Ability and Weight Classes in MMA 27:36 Injuries and Transition to Real Estate 28:16 The Knee Surgery Dilemma 30:42 Dana White and UFC Politics 31:08 Merab's Journey and Work Ethic 33:59 Real Estate Ventures and House Hacking 42:18 Challenges for New Home Buyers 46:46 The Competitive Real Estate Market

In this second episode of “Dead Serious”, we dive into the chaos and rewards of a spontaneous road trip to Disney with kids in tow! From packing up the car like the Beverly Hillbillies to driving straight through to Florida, we recount the highs and lows of balancing family, business, and the need for a well-earned break. We get real about the importance of venturing into new territories, whether it’s becoming a figurehead in the digital world or exploring uncharted areas of life and death.  We also touch on the idea of normalizing conversations around mortality, facing the fear of the unknown, and embracing the inevitable. Hit play, and let’s talk about the things no one wants to talk about! 00:31 Exploring Digital Presence and Local Influence 01:59 Embracing Mortality in the Digital Age 02:58 The Allure and Pitfalls of Instant Fame 06:49 Vacation Adventures and Travel Woes 13:54 The Role of AI in Our Lives 15:01 Embracing Technology in Daily Tasks 17:32 The Future of AI and Its Implications 19:13 AI in Professional Settings 20:43 The Human Experience and Technology 22:41 Reflections on Life and Death 26:01 Guest Insights and Future Plans

Welcome to the first episode of the Dead Serious podcast with host Vincent Gilmor, funeral director of Noce Funeral Home in West Babylon, NY.   Today we talk about the pressures and joys of carrying on a family tradition, the intricacies of managing both a funeral home and a florist business, and the necessary role of community relationships in this unique industry.  We also touch on the emotional and economic realities of running a funeral home, and how he has transformed his anxiety into a superpower that aids in reading people and situations.  Whether it's dealing with challenging customers or balancing work and personal life, this origin story of Noce Funeral Home & it’s family tradition is of resilience, dedication, and genuine care. 02:46 Balancing Multiple Businesses 05:01 Community and Personal Sacrifices 06:47 The Business Side of Funerals 09:55 Personal Connections and Community Role 16:12 Pre-Planning and Client Interactions 18:19 The Importance of Genuine Care in Funeral Services 19:16 Building a Community Reputation 22:12 Handling Emotional and Unexpected Situations 25:02 Daily Operations and Challenges 28:20 Community Outreach and Legacy 30:44 Personal Adversity and Professional Growth