3. Therefore, I would imagine you know they are not min-maxing. You know that the encounters should have a "way out." You know the encounters should be less deadly because new players. You know this, just like you know the encounters should be tailored to two-hour sessions.
4. I am guessing that with 156 deaths, how many of those were brought back? I mean, players can have access to revivify pretty early on in the game. Maybe a temple nearby that can resurrect? Maybe a god intervening allowing for advantage on death saves? Maybe another player that just walks over and puts a goodberry or healing potion in the PCs mouth? Maybe someone 60' away simply casting a healing word? Maybe a deal with the devil to get them back?