In this episode of So Life Wants You Dead, Nora sits down with Chris Tartaro. Chris Tartaro is a television director from Queens, NY, who currently works on the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. He is a father of 3 and a husband of 1.
He is also half of “blazrdog” [pronounced Blazer Dog] Their music can be found on all streaming platforms. For more info head to blazrdog.com.

Chris has faced significant health challenges, including a Hodgkin's Disease diagnosis at age 16 and a benign brain tumor (meningioma) at age 40. In this episode, we discuss his experience with these diagnoses, how music is a guiding force in his life, and how he balances parenthood with illness. Chris shares his perspective on the emotional and practical aspects of his medical journey, the impactful role of creativity in his recovery, and how he navigates life and work post-illness.

Artwork by Ronaé Fagon; Music by Milo Segal

01:54 Chris's Brain Tumor Diagnosis

03:38 Hospital Experience and Surgery

07:43 Reflections on Past Illness: Hodgkin's Disease

19:19 Impact of Illness on Personal Life and Career

24:37 Adjusting to Life Post-Surgery

31:25 Embracing Sobriety

32:08 Parenting Through Illness

33:03 Facing Mortality and Love Bombing

36:46 Creative Outlets During Recovery

39:15 Music as a Lifeline

47:09 The Impact of Illness on Creativity

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