Episode 15 - "Dead Ass? Dead Everything" with Kirsten Michelle Cills (Dying Up Here) & Laura Lyster-Mensh (Congressional Cemetery)
Summary
This final episode of *Indecent* explores the taboo of death through the lens of a terminally ill comedian and a death doula. Guests Kirsten Michelle Sills and Laura Leister-Mensch discuss the cultural shift from avoiding mortality to embracing "death positivity" and open conversations. They share personal insights on living with limited time, the reality of the dying process versus Hollywood myths, and the role of doulas in guiding families through end-of-life transitions.
Topics discussed
Intro: Celebrating the end of Indecent
Recap: End times prep and episode origin
The taboo of death and Victorian mourning rituals
Modern burial costs and global death traditions
Introduction of guests Kirsten and Laura
Kirsten's life with cystic fibrosis and comedy
Navigating special treatment and public perception
Living with a terminal diagnosis and zoomed-out perspective
Impact of mortality on behavior and social interactions
Legacy plans: Autobiography and a funeral roast
Hospitalization cycles and beliefs about the afterlife
Laura explains the role of a death doula
Cultural differences in death and the value of talking
Comedians share their preferred ways to die
Laura's background and the importance of open dialogue
Death education and reaching young people
Mortality as a tool for living a better life
Distinguishing the fear of dying vs. being dead
What dying actually looks like vs. Hollywood
How awareness of death enhances joy and appreciation
Final arrangements: Cremation vs. burial
Humor and authenticity at the deathbed
Worst and funniest things people say to the dying
Closing remarks and credits
Outro: Potential revival and contact info
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