Seeing Death Clearly : Recent Episodes
Jill McClennen
Seeing Death Clearly is a show that challenges you to think about your beliefs about death, dying, grief, and living life. I found through first-hand experience that the more I came to terms with my thoughts and feelings about death and dying, the more present I became in my everyday life and I hope to share that with you too, how you can live a better life by having a healthier relationship with death and dying. Each episode will feature a guest that will share with us their beliefs and stories about death and dying, these will be real honest conversations about a topic most of us avoided talking about our entire lives.I am on a mission to change that, one conversation at a time.
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In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen talks with life coach, author, and publisher Mia Godfrey about what it means to rebuild your life after profound loss. Mia's story is one of resilience, but it isn't a story of "getting over" grief. Instead, it's about learning to carry loss while continuing to move forward.
Mia shares what it was like growing up in communist Romania, losing her father as a young adult, and struggling with alcohol and prescription pills as she tried to cope with overwhelming grief. She reflects on meeting her late husband during a mission trip, moving to the United States, and the devastating shock of becoming a widow at just 35 years old when he died unexpectedly from heat stroke at the age of 42.
The conversation also explores Mia's experience caring for her sister during an 11-month battle with ovarian cancer before her death in 2023. That loss eventually led Mia to begin therapy, opening another chapter in her own healing journey. Together, Jill and Mia discuss how grief changes throughout our lives, why every loss is different, and how support can come from unexpected places.
Throughout the episode, they explore the importance of community, the courage it takes to ask for help, and why comparing grief only creates more suffering. Mia shares how writing became part of her healing process, eventually leading her and her husband to start Scribble Pages Publishing, where they help others tell their own stories and preserve their legacies.
Jill and Mia also talk about caregiving, self-care, holding space for someone who is grieving without trying to fix their pain, and why conversations about death and end-of-life planning are ultimately conversations about love. They discuss the value of legacy work, preparing loved ones for the future, and creating meaning even after life's most difficult experiences.
Whether you've experienced the death of a spouse, parent, sibling, or another significant loss—or you're supporting someone who has—this episode offers compassionate insights into grief, resilience, healing, and finding hope after unimaginable change.
00:00 Grief Is Personal
01:30 Meet Jill And Mia
02:13 Sudden Loss Of Husband
04:57 Faith And Community Support
06:39 Starting Over Alone
13:19 Father Loss And Addiction
18:34 Orphanage Work And Education
19:28 New Life In America
21:33 Caring For Sister
23:37 Remarriage And Blended Family
26:10 Sister Loss Grief
27:29 Therapy To Book
28:52 Self Publishing Journey
29:53 Writing Routine Evolution
30:15 Books Two And Three
31:51 Lessons From Grief
35:05 Holding Space Better
38:42 Wellness Coaching Focus
42:02 Retreats And Courses
43:18 Where To Find Mia
44:08 Publishing Others Next
46:01 Unexpected Global Readers
47:21 Caregiver Self-Care
48:47 Podcast Closing Call
https://www.instagram.com/miagodfreyauthor/
https://www.amazon.com/Buried-Not-Broken-Survival-Sisterhood/dp/B0G6Y12J29
miagodfrey.com
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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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When someone dies, the grief is only part of what families are carrying. Along with the emotional pain often comes a long list of decisions, paperwork, phone calls, family dynamics, and practical tasks that can feel impossible to manage while you're mourning.
In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen talks with Sarah Baldwin, founder of Restfully, about why navigating loss shouldn't have to be so overwhelming and how better support can help people focus on what matters most.
Sarah shares the deeply personal experience that inspired Restfully. After her mother died from lung cancer, she found herself facing the same confusing and fragmented system that so many families encounter after a death. Although her mother's death had been expected, nothing truly prepared her for the emotional weight or the practical responsibilities that followed. Drawing on her background in finance and operations, Sarah realized there had to be a better way to connect people with trustworthy resources during one of the most difficult times of their lives.
Together, Jill and Sarah explore the reality that grief doesn't begin only after someone dies.
Anticipatory grief can be just as profound, and even when families know a death is coming, they often feel unprepared for everything that follows. They discuss how logistical demands—finding hospice, planning a funeral, cleaning out a home, managing paperwork, or coordinating services—can leave little room to simply grieve.
A major focus of the conversation is the importance of personalized grief support. Sarah explains Restfully's four grief personas—Open Heart, Quiet Anchor, Steady Hand, and Seeker—and how each reflects a different way people process loss and seek help. Rather than assuming everyone grieves the same way, these personas encourage a more compassionate, individualized approach to communication and support.
Sarah also shares how Restfully is expanding beyond educational resources into practical tools designed to make help easier to find. The platform is developing a vetted vendor directory and a "solution database" that allows people to search by the problem they're trying to solve—whether they need a funeral home, hospice provider, death doula, estate attorney, home cleanout service, grief counselor, or another type of support. They also discuss scholarship opportunities and other efforts to make these services more accessible to people who might otherwise struggle to afford them.
The conversation touches on the challenges of building a mission-driven business in the end-of-life space. Sarah talks openly about balancing the desire to provide meaningful support with the realities of sustaining an organization financially. Jill and Sarah also discuss how grief often shows up in unexpected ways, including anger expressed online, family conflict, or emotional reactions that may not immediately be recognized as grief at all.
Throughout the episode, both emphasize that there is no single "right" way to grieve. People need different kinds of information, different kinds of support, and different timing. Meeting people where they are—with practical resources, compassion, and without judgment—can make an enormous difference during one of life's hardest experiences.
Whether you're planning ahead, supporting someone who is seriously ill, grieving the loss of a loved one, or simply interested in improving end-of-life care, this conversation offers thoughtful insights into making death and grief a little less overwhelming and a lot more human.
00:00 Death Connects Us
01:21 Meet Sarah Baldwin
02:15 What Is Restfully
02:49 Why She Started
05:55 Losing Her Mom
08:43 Clearing Space To Grieve
09:36 Unexpected Logistics Stress
12:27 Building The Team
13:21 Four Grief Personas
17:14 How The Personas Formed
20:37 Sitting With Unknowns
22:55 Death Work And Cultural Shift
25:27 Evolving Doula Roles
26:59 Grief Fuels Online Anger
31:40 Personal Grief and Triggers
34:05 Breaking Comment Loops
37:14 Rounding Up on People
39:15 Charging for Care Work
42:17 Restfully Solution Database
48:32 Where to Find Sarah
49:24 End of Life Planning Offer
https://www.restfullycare.com/
https://www.restfullycare.com/grief-personas
sarah@restfullycare.com
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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Death doesn't have to be a taboo topic. In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen is joined by Annalouiza Armendariz and Wakil David Matthews, interfaith ordained ministers and co-hosts of the End of Life Conversations podcast.
Together, they explore how talking openly about death, dying, and grief can reduce fear, strengthen communities, and help people make more informed decisions about the end of life. Drawing from their work in funeral service, spiritual care, education, and end-of-life support, Annalouiza and Wakil share practical insights into preparing for death while also reflecting on the emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of living well.
The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including advance care planning, hospice, advance directives, medical aid in dying (MAID), voluntarily stopping eating and drinking (VSED), grief, caregiving, and the growing need for stronger community support. They also discuss the unique challenges faced by people who are aging or dying without close family, why affordable end-of-life support is often difficult to access, and how mutual aid and neighborhood connections can help fill those gaps.
Jill, Annalouiza, and Wakil also talk about teaching children to speak honestly about death, the importance of using clear language instead of euphemisms, and why normalizing these conversations benefits people of every age. They don't shy away from subjects that are often avoided, including the physical realities of dying, mental health, caregiver burnout, and the ways fear and silence can make the dying process more difficult for everyone involved.
Whether you're planning ahead, supporting someone who is seriously ill, working in healthcare, or simply curious about how we can approach death with greater openness and compassion, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives and practical ideas that can help make these conversations feel less overwhelming.
Talking about death won't make it happen sooner—but avoiding the conversation can leave families unprepared. By planning ahead, building community, and learning to have honest conversations, we can reduce anxiety, support one another more effectively, and ultimately live with greater intention.
00:00 Compassionate Caregiving
00:15 Meet the Hosts
01:57 How Their Podcast Began
03:35 Podcasting Lessons Learned
05:13 The Many Hats They Wear
07:07 Planning Class and Nonprofit
08:44 Aging Alone and Affordability
11:30 Rebuilding Community Support
13:23 What to Say in Grief
15:14 Saying Death Out Loud
19:53 Raising Death Literate Kids
23:17 Narcan and Hard Talks
24:44 Mental Health and MAID
28:18 Disability and MAID Ethics
30:55 Dying as Sacred Process
31:55 Caregiving Over Numbing
34:32 Hospice Story and Anxiety
38:29 Shame and Everybody Poops
43:54 Facilities and Community Options
47:29 Legal Risks and Compassion
49:01 Wrap Up and Resources
50:19 End of Life Planning CTA
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2257447
https://endoflifeconvos.substack.com/
https://www.jaguar-journey.com/
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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Host Jill McClennen, a death doula and funeral celebrant, speaks with Northern California end-of-life doula Lori Goldwyn about death doula work, grief, and end-of-life planning. Lori explains how childhood fear of death, her background in women’s health, and her mother’s death in 2010 moved her from birth doula work into hospice volunteering and then end-of-life doula care after training with INELDA in 2016.
They discuss parallels between birth and dying, how advance directives can be hard to follow during medical crises, and the emotional weight of decisions like intubation and life support.
Lori shares her first experience supporting a medical aid in dying (MAID) client, including the complex medication process and her initial guilt, and both emphasize informed choice, compassionate support, and the need to relieve families from managing these intense moments alone.
00:00 Families Shouldn’t Carry This
00:12 Meet Your Host and Guest
01:33 Lori’s Path to Doula Work
04:39 Birth and Death Parallels
08:09 When Plans Meet Reality
12:17 God’s Will and Medical Choices
15:49 VSED and Family Conflict
18:30 First MAID Client Story
22:05 MAID Protocols and Stress
24:10 Why Families Hire Support
25:23 Reaching Prescribing Doctors
26:00 Doula Credibility Gap
28:32 Questions Patients Should Ask
29:57 Why Doulas Fill Gaps
31:58 MAID Timing Pressures
33:17 First MAID Case Lessons
35:26 Aftercare and Adrenaline
38:02 Teamwork and Pricing
40:22 Making Doula Work Sustainable
47:45 Wrap Up and Resources
48:34 Vacation and Planning Offer
https://MorituriDoulaServices.com
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567692093960
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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Death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen hosts Philadelphia-based medical historian Brandon Zimmerman to discuss his 2024 book, “Dissection Photography: Cadavers, Abjection, and the Formation of Identity,” about medical students (1880–1930) taking souvenir photos with cadavers and what the images reveal about coping with death through humor, ritual, and discomfort.
Brandon describes modern cadaver lab realities, including fainting, vomiting, sensory reactions, and students naming cadavers, and contrasts today’s mostly donation-based system with past body procurement through grave robbing and unclaimed bodies.
They explore ethical issues raised by a recent Pennsylvania grave robbing case tied to the oddities market, cemetery neglect, and stewardship, including how criminalizing ownership of human remains may drive the trade underground.
00:00 Faith Meets Dissection
02:24 Meet Brandon Zimmerman
03:56 Why Cadaver Photos Existed
04:57 Modern Lab Coping
07:30 Uncanny Dead Body Reactions
10:59 Preservation Changes Anatomy
13:47 Donations Versus Unclaimed
14:53 Naming the Cadavers
17:31 Recognizing Someone You Knew
19:57 Where Bodies Come From
20:59 Unclaimed Lives Honored
24:23 Cremains Lost in Neglect
28:01 Grave Robbing Returns
29:21 Student Dream Photos
32:17 Oddities Market Economics
35:20 Inside the Storage Locker
38:19 Can You Spot Stolen Bones
42:10 Cemetery Laws and Security
45:59 Wrap Up and Book Info
46:57 Grave Robbing History Deep Dive
https://www.instagram.com/brandozim/
https://www.amazon.com/Dissection-Photography-Cadavers-Abjection-Formation/dp/1529222184
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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Jill McClennen, a death doula and funeral celebrant, hosts Seeing Death Clearly and talks with Ralf Ellervee about preserving life stories as a lasting legacy that supports grief, healing, and conscious living. Ralph shares how interviewing his grandfather—an Estonian surgeon deported to Siberia at age nine—showed him how easily memories can be lost, especially with dementia, serious illness, or unexpected death.
He explains why long audio recordings often go unused, while a printed book with photos becomes a timeless keepsake families reread and pass down. Ralph describes how his company, Ethos Books (ethosbook.co), evolved from in-person interviews and writers into an app that guides storytelling, lets users skip or edit answers, and can use AI to identify old photos and add context.
Jill also connects this work to her funeral and end-of-life planning conversations, and offers a complimentary 30-minute call for support.
00:00 You Die Twice
01:56 Meet Ralph Ellervee
03:34 Grandfather’s Siberia Story
04:59 School Project Spark
07:20 Why Books Beat Audio
09:23 Hard Memories Matter
12:28 From Service to App
15:06 Don’t Wait for Dementia
18:00 Family Voices Together
21:43 Photos and AI Context
24:59 Timeless Power of Books
29:05 Every Life Matters
32:19 Stories at End of Life
37:20 Legacy and Second Death
41:16 Where to Find Ethos
42:03 Closing and Next Steps
Homepage: http://ethoslifestories.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theethosbook
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethos.book/
Support the show
Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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On Seeing Death Clearly, death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen speaks with transpersonal psychologist Dr. Irene Blinston about her research on grief healing, consciousness, and paranormal encounter experiences. Blinston explains the psychomanteum—an environment of darkness, quiet, sensory reduction, and angled mirror gazing originally developed by Dr. Raymond Moody—where grieving participants try to connect with deceased loved ones and become their own medium.
She outlines the three-phase, single-session process (preparation with mementos, up to 60 minutes mirror gazing, and debrief), eligibility screening to avoid harm, and reports that 92% of 100 analyzed participants had reduced grief symptoms that lasted over time. Participants described voices, touch, smells, and rare apparitions, including a major transformation in a mother with prolonged grief.
Blinston also discusses her research on childhood religious apparitions, parallels with near-death and UFO encounter themes, and shares where to find her book and resources.
00:00 Grief Contact Breakthrough
00:16 Show Intro and Guest
01:37 What Is a Psychomanteum
03:55 Who Can Participate
06:36 Three Phase Session
09:02 Debrief and Results
11:17 Apparitions Voices and Senses
15:30 Life Changing Case Stories
18:26 Access and Availability Today
20:23 Certification and Wider Uses
22:24 Consciousness Beyond Death
23:40 Mediumship and Timelines
25:03 Grid of Collective Mind
27:01 Doctoral Apparition Research
30:09 Fatima and UFO Parallels
34:39 Which Religions Appear
37:26 End of Life Visions
39:36 Where to Find Irene
41:46 End of Life Planning Help
https://www.youtube.com/@insearchofgnosis
https://portaltohealinggrief.com
https://freebook.portaltohealinggrief.com/
Support the show
Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, I speak with Lori Rizzo, a death doula in the Philadelphia area, about her transition from corporate leadership and training into end-of-life care. Lori shares how her personal experiences led her to this work and why she has become especially passionate about supporting individuals living with dementia and the people who care for them.
We discuss the challenges many families face after a dementia diagnosis, including stigma, isolation, and the overwhelming amount of information that can be difficult to navigate. Lori explains why education, community support, and early planning can make a meaningful difference for both the person living with dementia and their care partners.
Our conversation also explores common misconceptions about hospice care, including the belief that hospice provides around-the-clock caregiving. Lori emphasizes the importance of having conversations about end-of-life wishes long before a crisis occurs and shares her approach of "hope for the best, plan for the rest" when discussing advance care planning.
We talk about the role of death doulas in supporting individuals and families through serious illness, the dying process, and grief. Lori shares how doulas can help create comforting bedside environments through music, reading, ritual, and meaningful connection, while also offering a calm and steady presence when circumstances don't unfold as expected.
In addition, Lori highlights valuable community resources, including Dementia Friendly Pennsylvania, memory cafés, and support groups that help reduce isolation and build connection for families affected by dementia.
Whether you are caring for someone with dementia, planning ahead for the future, or simply curious about the role of a death doula, this conversation offers practical insights, compassionate guidance, and a reminder that no one has to navigate these experiences alone.
In This Episode We Discuss:
- Lori's journey from corporate leadership to death doula work
- Dementia, stigma, and caregiver isolation
- The importance of early end-of-life conversations
- Common misconceptions about hospice care
- Advance directives and end-of-life planning
- Vigil planning and creating meaningful bedside experiences
- The role of death doulas during serious illness and dying
- Dementia Friendly Pennsylvania, memory cafés, and support groups
- Supporting families through uncertainty, grief, and change
www.compassionatecrossingsdoula.com
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
https://www.dementiafriendlypa.org/
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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Death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen hosts clinical psychologist Batya Ludman and Jewish educator Gina Junger to discuss their book, The Jewish Journey Through Loss: From Death to Healing, and how Jewish mourning traditions support grief and healing.
They explain active rituals like shoveling dirt at burial, tearing a ribbon or garment, and sitting shiva as a week-long “permission to grieve,” with visitors bringing food, stories, and support while mourners set the tone.
They describe stages after shiva, including shloshim and year-long practices, memorial prayers like Mourner’s Kaddish, and customs such as covering mirrors and placing stones on graves.
They also discuss Chevra Kadisha body preparation, simple burial practices, quick burial, differences between Israel and the diaspora, COVID-era online shiva, and the book’s use for mourners, clinicians, and end-of-life decision-making.
00:00 Shiva Permission to Grieve
00:17 Podcast and Guests Intro
02:52 Why They Wrote the Book
04:10 Jewish Funeral Participation
08:41 Sitting Shiva Explained
11:47 Beyond Shiva Ritual Stages
14:07 Chevra Kadisha and Tahara
18:14 Burying Quickly and Memorials
21:14 Differences by Death and Place
25:40 COVID and Zoom Shiva Etiquette
28:34 Covering Mirrors Meaning
31:33 Who the Book Helps
38:19 End of Life and Children
41:18 Where to Find the Book
44:00 Host Closing and Call to Action
The Jewish Journey Through Loss: From Death to Healing
https://a.co/d/03VvOz5E
Support the show
Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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In this episode, I talk with Alexander Josephson, a Toronto-based architect whose father's cancer diagnosis unexpectedly led him into the world of digital legacy and remembrance.
When his father asked him to design a memorial, Alex began thinking about how we honor and remember the people we love. In a time when so much of our lives exists online, he wondered if there was a better way to preserve stories, memories, photographs, videos, and family history for future generations. That question eventually led him to create Cumulus, a platform designed to bring those pieces together in one meaningful place.
During our conversation, we explore grief, legacy, ritual, memorialization, and the ways technology can support connection rather than replace it. We also talk about the importance of creating spaces—both physical and digital—that help families remember, share stories, and stay connected across generations.
At one point, Alex gives me a tour of the Cumulus website. If you're listening rather than watching, don't worry. He does a wonderful job describing what he's seeing on screen, making it easy to understand how the platform works and imagine what it offers.
00:18 Meet the Host and Guest
02:13 From Architect to Death Tech
03:24 The Spark Behind Cumulus
06:12 Celebrating Lives and Legacy
07:18 Becoming a Death Doula
09:02 VSED and MAID Debates
16:58 Designing Beautiful Memorial Spaces
21:51 Ritual, Cost, and Modern Funerals
23:59 Building Legacy Continuity
24:36 Marketing End-of-Life Innovation
25:18 Digital Burden After Death
26:11 Storage Trust Vision
28:43 Why Funeral Websites Fail
29:34 Time Capsules for Kids
30:55 Beyond Social Media Grief
32:15 End-of-Life Culture Shift
33:49 Platform Walkthrough Demo
38:01 Shared Control and Costs
39:30 Where to Find Cumulus
40:25 Legacy Projects and Feedback
41:43 Podcast Closing Call to Action
alexanderjosephson (instagram)
cumulusworld (instagram)
cumulus.world (web)
partisanarchitecture (instagram)
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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On Seeing Death Clearly, death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen talks with Wendy Juergens about grief, dying, and healing through writing, including end-of-life planning and conscious living. Wendy shares the story of her son Nick, a Navy veteran who died by suicide nearly 14 years ago at age 32, and how writing her book, Hey, It’s Me, helped her stay connected to him, learn more about his life, and support others facing suicidal crisis or suicide loss.
They discuss the stigma and silence around suicide, the importance of open, age-appropriate talks with children about death—especially through pet loss—and how talking and storytelling can prevent isolation.
Wendy describes researching veterans’ challenges returning home, exploring post-traumatic growth, and creating a “Grief to Growth” workshop while continuing work on a pet loss book and a possible memoir.
00:00 Welcome and Episode Setup
01:09 Meet Wendy Jurgens
02:56 Writing Through Grief
04:19 Pet Loss and Kids
06:14 The Writing Process
10:06 Nick’s Story Begins
13:03 Signs and Medium Messages
16:56 Post Traumatic Growth
19:09 Breaking Suicide Silence
22:26 Talking Openly Saves Lives
24:17 Going Public With the Mission
25:27 Sibling Support Lunches
26:03 Veterans Returning Home
26:46 Nick’s Navy Stressors
29:06 Identity After Leaving
31:04 Losses and Perspective
32:35 Choosing Your Circle
34:20 Feeling Grief Fully
35:50 Book and New Projects
38:27 Writing as Therapy
41:29 Closing and Next Steps
https://www.wendyjuergens.com
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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Jill McClennen hosts a conversation with David Zartman and Joanna Franco from Caring House, a nonprofit hospice home in Torrance, California. They explain that Caring House serves people in the final days or weeks of a hospice journey, staffed 24/7 by caregivers, and works with many hospice agencies because it is a non-medical residential care facility.
Families can visit freely, often stay overnight in reclining chairs, and may bring pets; volunteers include chefs, death doulas, and therapy dogs. The guests describe funding through pay-what-you-can fees, donations, grants, and fundraisers, with no one turned away for inability to pay. They discuss rituals, honoring residents after death, flexible time for families to stay, and staff debriefing and grief.
00:00 What Caring House Is
00:15 Meet the Host
01:25 Meet David and Joanna
02:35 Why Caring House Is Different
03:37 Who It Serves
04:25 Working With Hospices
06:43 Life at End of Life
08:39 Food and Volunteers
09:34 Staffing and Overnight Family
12:50 Admissions and Waitlist
13:59 Nonprofit Funding Model
16:14 Hospice Coverage Reality
18:57 Death Doulas in House
20:09 Facing Death and Control
23:53 Grief Lessons From Work
25:27 Losing Sandra Young
26:11 Lessons From Grief
26:49 Staff Facing Death Daily
29:41 Honoring Residents After Death
30:58 Family Time After Passing
33:57 Rituals Music And Goodbyes
35:51 Pets And Therapy Dogs
38:10 Why Caring Houses Matter
43:46 Support Donate And Connect
45:39 Final Thanks And Planning Help
https://www.yourcaringhouse.org/
https://www.instagram.com/yourcaringhouse/
https://www.facebook.com/YourCaringHouse/
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jill@endoflifeclarity.com
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Host Jill McClennen, a death doula, end-of-life care planner, and funeral celebrant, interviews Laurel Hill Funeral Directors Tasha Dugan and Amanda Kyle about what funeral directing looks like behind the scenes. They discuss embalming and body preparation, service planning, costs, flowers, paperwork, and supporting families from the first call through the funeral.
Amanda shares her path from animal rights work and veterinary care to funeral service, and Tasha describes moving from insurance and autopsy work into full-time funeral directing. They explore why ritual and personalization matter in grief, how death doulas and funeral directors can work together, and how doulas can help families communicate needs during arrangements.
The conversation also covers weather challenges for burials, hand-dug green burials, pet funerals at Laurel Hill’s pet cemetery, aquamation legislation in Pennsylvania, and how media stories about cremation increase requests for witnessed cremations.
00:00 Doula Trust Story
00:15 Show Intro and Guests
01:59 Amanda’s Path to Death Care
03:20 Tasha’s Funeral Director Journey
06:11 What Funeral Directors Do
10:29 Death Doulas vs Funeral Directors
14:22 Personalization and Embalming Value
15:46 How Doulas Help Arrangements
23:56 Weather and Winter Burials
26:14 Weather Delays Services
27:17 Hand Dug Green Burials
27:59 Pet Cemetery Stories
32:12 Aquamation Legal Push
33:30 Cremation Documentary Fears
35:51 Death Arts Festival Recap
37:46 Death Doulas Meet Funeral Care
41:02 Contact Laurel Hill Team
42:43 Bookstore and Summer Events
44:36 End of Life Planning CTA
https://laurelhillphl.com/
https://www.facebook.com/laurelhillphl
https://www.instagram.com/laurelhillphl/
From Fear of Death to Funeral Director: Tasha Dugan’s Journey at Philadelphia’s Historic Laurel Hill Cemetery
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Death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen speaks with Matt Fogelson about growing up in 1980s Manhattan, then losing his workaholic father to lung cancer when Matt was 19 and his father was 46. Matt describes carrying unspoken grief for decades, using pain to stay connected, and how family silence around dying robbed them of meaningful end-of-life conversations.
He shares how music and playing guitar became a private outlet for depression and rage, and later a bridge to his own son, helping him heal and avoid repeating emotional absence. The conversation also explores conscious living, legacy, and end-of-life planning, including the regret of devoting life to work over relationships. Matt discusses his Substack “Fine Tuning,” leaving law, and his memoir, “Fatherhood in a Different Key.”
00:00 Facing Mortality
00:16 Meet the Host and Guest
01:19 Growing Up 80s Manhattan
03:05 Life After New York
04:09 His Father’s Diagnosis
06:43 Decades of Hidden Grief
11:29 Music as a Lifeline
13:31 Denial and No Goodbye
14:57 Why We Avoid Death Talk
19:47 Childhood Grief and First Funeral
22:46 Shiva and Grief Advice
24:12 Music as Emotional Outlet
26:06 Soundgarden and Screaming
28:40 Safe Ways to Let It Out
31:07 From Lawyer to Memoirist
33:30 Cats in the Cradle Reflections
35:44 Writing in the Basement
37:03 Quitting Law and Launching
37:51 Regrets of the Dying
39:39 Family Cycles and Workaholism
43:41 Where to Find Matt
44:34 End-of-Life Planning CTA
https://www.mattfogelson.com/
https://mattfogelson.substack.com/
Restrung Fatherhood in a Different Key
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Death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen interviews Mel Bennett, founder of Life Forest in New Hampshire, a nonprofit cemetery and public arboretum where human and pet cremated remains are buried with newly planted trees. After caring for her mother through early-onset frontal lobe dementia, Mel received her mother’s ashes in a plastic bag and box, which pushed her to create a more meaningful, healing legacy. She explains how the land is conserved, how each tree is legally protected as a burial monument, and how families get long-term, deeded access using GPS coordinates and mapping software. Mel shares the science behind their certified wool shrouds that support soil health, plus QR-code memorial markers for equal memorialization. Life Forest prioritizes accessibility, offers free burial for anyone under 20, supports unclaimed deaths, and helps expand similar cemeteries in other states.
00:00 Her Smile in Bloom
00:18 Show and Guest Intro
01:29 Mel’s Roots and Big Question
02:34 Childhood Fear and Mom’s Wisdom
04:40 Dementia Caregiving Journey
07:13 Ashes in a Bag
09:08 From Idea to Life Forest
11:04 Planting the Dogwood
13:09 Building the Arboretum
16:47 Legal Protections for Trees
18:39 Deeded Rights and GPS Mapping
25:15 Wool Shroud Science
28:59 How Families Prepare Remains
31:18 Choosing the Right Tree
32:12 Soil Sun and Pollination
35:03 Public Arboretum Access
36:20 QR Code Memorials
38:57 Pets Fees and Fairness
42:49 Accessibility and Community
43:31 Child Grief Book Project
50:49 Expanding Life Forest Model
54:40 Where to Find Life Forest
55:16 End of Life Planning Call
https://lifeforestcemetery.com/
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Death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennen hosts Jermaine on Seeing Death Clearly to explore how talking about death can lead to more conscious living.
Jermaine shares how a conversation revealed his mother did not understand how her 401(k) connected to real choices, which led him to help her intentionally live out long-held dreams through travel before she died suddenly from a stroke. They discuss grief, regrets, impermanence, and how cultural habits and fear drive inaction around money, dying, and legacy planning, even when tools exist.
Jermaine describes family, seasons of life, and the importance of using meaningful things now rather than saving them for later, including receiving gifts as expressions of love.
He introduces HeirLight, an AI-guided end-of-life planning tool that helps people create wills and other documents more easily and in multiple languages.
00:00 Compounding Blind Spots
00:20 Meet the Host and Guest
01:37 Jermaine on Family and Travel
03:09 Seasons of Life and Regrets
05:58 Money Fear and Die With Zero
09:26 Mom’s 401k Wake Up Call
12:38 Dream Trip and Sudden Stroke
17:18 Inaction and Cultural Barriers
22:34 Buddhism Stoicism and Impermanence
28:20 Vipassana Retreat Story
31:16 Meditation Intensity and Grace
33:07 War Changes Perspective
35:11 Use the Good Stuff
37:55 Learning to Receive
40:47 Perfect Tuesday Mindset
45:07 Time With Elders
47:40 Community Over Stuff
49:59 Building an Estate App
56:06 How the App Works
01:00:38 Simple Will Basics
01:03:12 Closing and Next Steps
https://heirlight.com/en
YouTube video of Jermaine and his parents "They came here with nothing. 40 years later, we went back."
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Death doula and funeral celebrant Jill McClennan hosts a conversation with Joy Jolie about how repeated loss, grief, and serious illness shaped Joy’s views on dying, healing, and end-of-life planning.
Joy describes multiple breast cancer diagnoses in her family, including her own, and shares how her mother declined chemo and radiation, while her sisters faced lasting harm and, in one case, workplace pressure to undergo treatment. Joy explains why she questioned standard cancer care, sought resources like Crispy Cancer and The Truth About Cancer, and emphasized informed consent and personal medical choice.
The episode also discusses Canada’s MAID program, supporting choice while warning about coercion and lack of support, and touches on psychedelics for depression and death anxiety. Joy shares her shift toward conscious living, legacy, and helping others through her Joy of Resilience work.
00:00 Suffering and Growth
00:17 Meet Jill and Joy
01:31 Joy’s Losses and Awakening
04:12 Seven Breast Cancer Diagnoses
04:54 Coercion and Treatment Pressure
06:53 Searching for Causes
11:26 Informed Consent and Choice
20:49 Quality of Life Conversations
25:00 Sister’s Final Journey
27:09 A Call for Medical Autonomy
27:26 Health Choices Matter
28:31 Hope and Culture Shift
28:43 MAID and Personal Choice
29:55 Slippery Slope Concerns
36:00 Hospice Policies and Oversight
37:59 Eugenics and Human Value
39:27 Mental Illness Gray Areas
40:15 Psychedelics as Treatment
41:27 Family Impact and Nuance
44:40 Grief and Die Wise
48:37 Division and Complexity
50:44 Building Joy Resilience
52:11 Services and Resources
54:49 End of Life Planning
https://joyofresilience.com
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Host Jill McClennen, a death doula and funeral celebrant, talks with Jessica LeBeau-Richman, a South Jersey pet death doula, about the often overlooked grief of losing an animal and how people can stay connected through ritual, keepsakes, and conscious goodbyes.
Jessica shares how her rescue cat Sammy led her from years of nonprofit social services into end-of-life doula work for pets, and how she supports families with anticipatory grief, quality-of-life decisions, vet-visit advocacy, and after-death choices like burial or cremation.
They discuss the lack of cultural support for pet grief, including shame and limited workplace compassion, and both describe in-home euthanasia as a beautiful experience.
The conversation highlights how honoring pet loss can support healing, legacy, and more present, intentional living.
01:24 Jessica’s Pet Doula Path
03:11 Sammy’s Story Begins
04:55 Shelter Work to Doula Work
07:13 Why Pet Grief Hits Hard
07:50 In Home Goodbye Rituals
09:52 Keepsakes and Ongoing Bonds
11:55 Older Pets and Second Chances
13:49 Euthanasia Versus Human Endings
15:31 When Is It Time
16:26 Sammy’s Final Day
21:30 Support During Loss
22:46 Becoming a Pet Doula
23:12 Pet vs Human Care
23:45 Quality of Life Assessment
24:29 Pet Memorialization Options
25:53 Pet Doula Training
26:56 Building the Business
29:19 Pet Burial Options
29:56 Backyard Pet Burials
30:54 Personal Burial Stories
32:33 Honoring Animal Remains
34:55 Appreciating Life Through Death
35:49 Tactile Moments with Pets
37:46 Connect with Jessica
38:37 End of Life Planning
Website: https://jessicaendoflifepetdoula.carrd.co/
Instagram: @jessica.petlossdoula
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Host Jill McClennen, a death doula and funeral celebrant, speaks with Rae Dumont, a Belgian-born pediatrician turned family therapist, about caring for chronically ill children and why connection and honest, age-appropriate truth matter as much as clinical skill. Dumont discusses her novel, “In the Shadow of Silence,” about a father’s depression and suicide and the different ways children and a spouse who is also a psychiatrist process grief, shame, guilt, anger, and “what if” thinking, especially after sudden or violent loss. They contrast depression-related suicide with end-of-life choices in serious illness, and emphasize presence, compassion, and bearing witness when cure isn’t possible. The conversation also explores embracing mortality, how the mindset at death affects loved ones, preparing children for death through honesty, and the value of end-of-life planning and supportive conversations before a crisis.
01:31 Pediatrics to Family Therapy
03:11 Kids Need Honesty
03:45 Novel and Family Fallout
05:35 Why Fiction Not Memoir
07:22 Suicide Shame and Guilt
09:41 Violent Loss Trauma
11:40 Spouse as Psychiatrist
16:51 You Cant Save Everyone
18:26 Compassion Without Cure
20:48 Accepting Death Frees Life
22:40 End of Life vs Suicide
23:53 Talking Death With Kids
25:36 Hospice Goodbye Story
26:41 Gifts Before Dying
27:03 Tibetan Death Teachings
28:10 Reincarnation And Legacy
29:44 Talking To Kids
32:08 Suicide And Loved Ones
33:16 Facing The Unvarnished Truth
37:03 Supporting Families Too
38:25 Why Write This Book
42:09 Guilt What Ifs And Limits
46:42 Finding The Book
https://www.raedumontwriting.org
In the Shadow of Silence
Also find the book here
Book Review
Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of DeathSupport the show
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In this episode, Jill McClennen speaks with Philadelphia-area researcher and photographer Edward Snyder about abandoned and forgotten cemeteries and what they reveal about dying, grief, legacy, and conscious living. Ed explains how his interest in cemetery art grew into decades of documenting burial practices and the death care industry, including stories of cemeteries destroyed, built over, or only partly moved, leaving human remains under streets, playgrounds, and parking lots. He cites the Philadelphia Archaeological Forum’s map of 200 historic burial sites. He describes cases like Monument Cemetery near Temple University and the First Baptist Church burial ground, where thousands may still remain. They discuss what can happen legally when construction finds remains, the dumping of tombstones along the Betsy Ross Bridge shoreline, neglect and restoration efforts at Mount Moriah, Mount Vernon, and Har Hasetim, and how green burials and community events can fund long-term care.
01:40 Cemetery Photography Obsession
04:51 How Many Hidden Burial Grounds
07:17 Monument and Lafayette Cemeteries
09:04 Construction Finds and the Law
11:09 Tombstones Dumped in Rivers
16:50 Grave Robbing at Mount Moriah
21:59 Turning Cemeteries into Green Space
27:48 Why Cemeteries Get Abandoned
29:12 Green Burial as a Lifeline
35:51 Camden Cemeteries and River Markers
https://thecemeterytraveler.blogspot.com/
Abandoned and Forgotten Cemeteries of Philadelphia and its Environs book on Amazon
“History Lives at Fort Mifflin” multi-author event
April 11, 2026, Fort Mifflin, 6400 Hog Island Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19153
“Abandoned Site Photography” Artist Talk Event with Ed Snyder and Veronika Schmude, April 15, 2026, Plays and Players Theatre, 1714 Delancey St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
“The Challenge of the Abandoned Cemetery” presentation at the Spring 2026 Pennsylvania Chapter meeting of the Association for Gravestone Studies, May 2, 2026, Berks History Center, Reading, PA
Seeing Death Clearly episodes mentioned in this podcast:
How Natural Burial is Changing End-of-Life Planning with Ed Bixby
Reviving Philadelphia’s Forgotten Mount Vernon Cemetery with Brandon Zimmerman
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In this episode my guest Cristian Cibilis Bernardes, founder and CEO of Autograph and I explore how preserving memories can become a powerful part of legacy and end-of-life planning. The conversation highlights why hearing a loved one’s voice and stories can bring comfort, healing, and deeper understanding during grief.
Autograph is a platform designed to preserve people’s life stories before they are lost. Autograph records weekly phone interviews with an AI historian named Walter, capturing real conversations about a person’s memories, relationships, and life lessons. The recordings are transcribed and organized into private, connected pages that map the people, places, and experiences that shape a life, creating what Cristian describes as a living library of family wisdom.
The platform also sets clear boundaries around technology. Instead of creating AI avatars or simulations of the dead, every story is grounded in real recordings to protect authenticity and avoid the ethical concerns that can arise when technology recreates a person who has died.
The conversation explores how documenting memories can support healing, strengthen family connections, and encourage more conscious living.
01:36 Autograph Explained
03:22 Time Vault for Families
04:56 Grief and Boundaries
06:35 Stories Shape Identity
08:40 AI and Authentic Memory
13:06 How the Platform Works
16:02 Pricing and Access Model
17:28 Don’t Wait to Record
20:12 Christian’s Origin Story
21:56 AI Translation and Connection
24:02 Love Notes for Later
25:51 Kids Change Everything
26:58 Life Is Hard for Everyone
28:01 Authoring Your Own Story
28:51 Screens and Fading Memories
31:33 Why Walter Is Audio
34:34 Gratitude and Mortality
37:20 Measured Optimism as Founder
38:35 Escaping Algorithm Negativity
41:40 Doing AI Companions Right
44:36 Where to Find Autograph
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccibils
https://autograph.ai
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End-of-life doula Joy Rodriguez talks with me about death doula work and supporting people who choose medical aid in dying. Medical aid in dying is often misunderstood and can be hard to access even where it is legal, especially when it is difficult to find participating providers. Joy shares her path from hospice volunteering in Washington to serving as a volunteer client advisor with End of Life Washington, helping families locate eligible doctors, understand the process, and prepare for the day of death.
She notes that hospice would not allow her to volunteer if she did that work. After moving to Hawaii, Joy saw how limited education and navigation support left many unaware of the law, so she now offers paid doula support with a sliding scale. They discuss emotional labor, the value of planning early, how a person’s “line in the sand” can change as illness progresses, and keeping clients as the “captains” of their own end-of-life choices.
00:00 Clients Captain Their Ship
00:20 Show Intro And Episode Setup
02:12 Joy Journey Hospice To Washington
05:34 Volunteering And Finding Providers
07:29 Pay Emotional Labor And Access
09:02 Paid Doula Work In Hawaii
15:24 Education Gaps And Public Awareness
17:16 Autonomy Misconceptions And Doctors
21:58 Planning Listening And Lines Shift
28:08 Doulas Versus Social Workers
33:52 Scope Of Practice And Captain Metaphor
41:18 Wrap Up And Where To Find Joy
42:24 Final Call To Action
honoluludeathdoula.com
Free bereavement group for aid in dying families: Medical Aid in Dying Group Registration
Community Care Events Medical Aid In Dying Bereavement Support Group
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jill@endoflifeclarity.com
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In this episode, a palliative care physician explains how early support and thoughtful end-of-life planning can reduce fear, ease suffering, and improve quality of life for patients and families.
Dr. David Casarett, chief of Palliative Care at Duke Health, describes palliative care as whole-person support that relieves symptoms and helps people make difficult medical decisions, even while receiving aggressive treatment. He contrasts this with hospice, which focuses on comfort for those expected to have six months or less to live.
00:17 Welcome to Seeing Death + Meet Dr. David Casarett
01:49 What Palliative Care Really Is (and What It Isn’t)
03:50 Palliative Care vs. Hospice: The Key Differences
04:39 How to Access Palliative Care Outside the Hospital
08:42 Misconceptions & Resistance: Why Palliative Care Gets Misread
10:38 Making Hard Choices: Ventilators, Odds, and Patient Goals
14:08 Age Isn’t the Whole Story: Function, Resilience, and Will to Live
16:15 Inside the Interdisciplinary Team: Social Work, Chaplaincy, Nursing & More
19:23 The Undiscovered Country: A Doctor’s Travel Guide to the End of Life
20:21 What People Fear About Dying (and What It Often Looks Like)
21:34 How Death Happens: The Body’s Timing, Physiology, and a Peaceful End
25:04 The Moment of Death: Quieter Than the Movies
25:57 What Comes After? Making Peace With the Unknown
26:34 Can People Sense Their Death? Monks, Intuition, and Timing
27:59 A Patient Who ‘Needed to Go Home’: The Botswana Story
31:43 Patterns Across Cultures: Visions and ‘People in the Room’
32:57 Terminal Delirium vs. End-of-Life Visions (and When to Treat)
35:47 Why Education Matters: Preparing Families for What’s Normal
36:36 Media Myths, Hospice Misconceptions, and Getting Support Sooner
41:45 Changing Care Earlier: Goals-of-Care Conversations + AI ‘Goal Coach’
45:23 Where to Find the Book + Final Thanks and Listener Support
Website: www.casarett.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-casarett
David’s TED Talk: A Doctor's Case for Medical Marijuana
David’s TEDxTalk: Gods, Munchkins & The Science Of Reviving The Dead
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jill@endoflifeclarity.com
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In this episode, for Black History Month, Jill interviews her longtime friend Rashine Curry (Rah Rah), a mother of six from Atlantic City. Rah Rah describes how poverty, racism, and systemic bias shaped her life, including incarceration, untreated mental illness, and medical neglect in prison. She shares major losses: her daughter’s father was murdered when the baby was six months old, her longtime partner and father of her other children was murdered, and she was not allowed to attend his funeral while incarcerated. She also recounts her brother’s murder, being raped in prison, and witnessing incarcerated people die after requests for medical help were ignored.
Rah Rah talks about how she welcomed a woman, who once sheltered Rah Rah and her children during homelessness, into her home for hospice. Rah Rah provided hands-on care, kept family visitors close, used music meant for hospice patients, and says Ms. Denise died peacefully on December 20. Rah Rah also speaks about her father’s ongoing incarceration: he received a 65-years-to-life sentence for snatching a bag of money from UPS, has been imprisoned about 35 years, is now 75, blind, and showing signs of dementia and being denied clemency despite petitions.
00:00 From Prison to Peace: Rah’s New Life
00:15 Meet the Host + Black History Month Episode Setup
01:21 How Cathedral Kitchen Opened Jill’s Eyes to Systemic Bias
03:03 Rah Introduces Herself: Atlantic City, Motherhood, and Reentry
06:16 Grief Piled on Grief: Murders, Separation, and Mental Health
11:38 Survival, Crime, and the Inhumanity of Prison
14:29 Paying It Forward: Bringing Her Benefactor Home for Hospice
19:43 The Final Days: Love, Exhaustion, and Letting Her Rest
23:04 After Death: Signs, Spirits, and What Still Lingers at Home
24:01 Spirits at Home: Feeling Ms. Denise Still Around
25:12 Signs & Comfort: When the Spirit Tries to Calm You
26:10 Remembering Ms. Denise: The Life of a Beloved Friend
27:54 Show Up Before It’s Too Late: Visiting Loved Ones at End of Life
31:31 Her Father’s Prison Story: A Final Visit in Handcuffs
34:34 Aging, Dementia & Prison Reform: Why Keep Him Locked Up?
35:52 Clemency Denied & Life Inside Blind: The System’s Failures
39:51 Coping With Grief: Music, Grandkids, and Staying Busy
41:36 Cathedral Kitchen Changed My Life: Certificates, Community, and Purpose
43:50 Protecting Your Peace: Choosing Solitude Over Toxic Relationships
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In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, host Jill McClennen, a death doula and funeral celebrant, speaks with Marcy Shrewsbury Lopez about her extraordinary love story and journey through grief.
Marcy shares her experience being married to her husband, who was 46 years older than her, and the deep connection they shared until his death at 98 years old.
She reflects on the challenges of caregiving and her path to healing through art, teaching, and nature. Marcy also discusses her memoir, 'A Place of Promise,' which portrays their love story and her personal growth.
This conversation highlights the themes of love, aging, and the perseverance required to move forward after losing a loved one.
00:00 Finding a Place of Promise
00:21 Introduction to the Podcast
01:24 Marcy's Early Life and Background
03:40 Life in The Bahamas and Return to New Jersey
07:15 Pursuing Art and Medical Illustration
10:56 Meeting and Marrying Adrian
12:50 Caring for Adrian and Coping with Loss
16:19 Moving Forward and Embracing New Experiences
19:38 The Healing Power of Horses
21:24 A Healing Connection with Horses
22:30 Art as a Grieving Outlet
24:45 The Power of Nature in Healing
26:33 Teaching and Giving Back
29:21 Writing a Memoir: A Journey of Love and Loss
33:54 The Challenges of Publishing
41:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578733719839
https://www.marcieshrewsburylopez.com
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In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, host Jill McClennen, a death doula and funeral celebrant, is joined by Ken Biery, a seasoned funeral director and founder of the Funeral Service Collective. Ken shares his journey from military service into the funeral profession and the experiences that shaped his commitment to innovation and family-centered care.
Together, they explore how the funeral industry is evolving, including emerging ideas such as sustainable memorials, underwater cemeteries, and the growing role of live-streamed services. The conversation also highlights how younger generations’ desire for meaningful, personalized experiences is reshaping traditional funeral practices.
A central focus of the episode is the potential for collaboration between funeral directors and death doulas. Ken and Jill discuss how these roles can complement one another by offering emotional, spiritual, and educational support to families, and they outline practical ways death doulas can begin building relationships with funeral homes. This episode offers thoughtful insight into how collaboration can strengthen end-of-life care and better serve communities.
00:00 Introduction to Compassionate End-of-Life Care
00:39 Meet Ken Beery: A Journey from Military to Funeral Service
00:55 Innovations in the Funeral Industry
03:08 The Role of Death Doulas in Funeral Services
08:47 Challenges and Opportunities for Collaboration
17:59 The Importance of Personalized Memorials
24:02 Collaborating with Funeral Homes
25:02 Building Referral Partnerships
26:48 Addressing Certification Concerns
32:18 The Importance of Teamwork
35:25 Generational Differences in the Industry
38:14 The Role of Technology
43:24 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information
https://thefunsc.com/
https://www.instagram.com/funeralservicecollective
https://www.facebook.com/funeralservicecollective
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
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jill@endoflifeclarity.com
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In this episode, I’m joined by Thomas Dixon, a Philadelphia native with a powerful and deeply personal story. Thomas shares his journey from working in psychiatry research to teaching middle school in South Korea, and the life-altering shift that followed a near-fatal accident in 2010. After being hit by a car, Thomas developed epilepsy and a permanent episodic memory disability that reshaped his daily life—and his sense of purpose.
Living with memory loss led Thomas to write his memoir, I'm Sorry, That's Awesome, and to develop ME.mory, a digital memory system designed to help people record, organize, and recall their life experiences. In our conversation, we talk about what it’s like to live with an invisible disability, how memory loss impacts identity and independence, and why memory is something all of us, regardless of diagnosis, are slowly losing over time.
Thomas is currently raising funds to support the continued development and public relaunch of ME.mory. You’ll find links in the show notes if you’d like to learn more or support his work. This is a thoughtful, eye-opening conversation about memory, meaning, and what it means to adapt when life changes everything.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Acceptance
00:25 Welcome to Seeing Death Podcast
00:47 Guest Introduction: Thomas Dixon's Journey
02:32 Life After the Accident
04:11 Understanding Memory Loss
07:15 Career Transition and Acceptance
09:09 Building a New Life and Relationships
11:32 Creating Memory: The Digital System
14:01 Writing the Memoir: 'I'm Sorry, That's Awesome'
18:36 Discussing Death and Cultural Perspectives
20:18 Reflecting on Family Losses
21:48 Impact of Injury on Life Perspective
22:43 Living with Memory Disability
25:03 Navigating Social Interactions
32:25 Traveling with Memory Challenges
37:36 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts
https://biausa.org/brain-injury/community/speakers-bureau/thomas-dixon
I'm Sorry... That's Awesome!: Inventing a Solution for Memory Loss on Amazon https://a.co/d/1GXfKOZ
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-combat-memory-loss-together
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
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jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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In this episode of 'Seeing Death Clearly,' host Jill McClennen talks with Christian Millward, a mother of six from Idaho, about her journey with grief and spirit communication. Christian shares how the deaths of her mother and seven-week-old daughter, Indi, led her to discover her spiritual connection and create the Indie Star Cards, a tool to help people communicate with loved ones who have passed away.
They discuss emotional awareness, generational trauma, and the importance of having an exit strategy for antidepressant use during pregnancy. Kristen also emphasizes the importance of normalizing discussions about death and spirit communication to facilitate the healing process.
00:00 Introduction to Spirit Communication
00:40 Meet Our Guest: Christian Millward
02:10 Kristen's Journey Through Grief
04:26 The Loss of Baby Indi
07:33 Generational Trauma and Healing
07:55 The Role of Antidepressants
11:26 Creating the Indi Star Cards
12:24 Normalizing Spirit Communication
15:05 Using the Indi Star Cards
19:43 Finding Peace Through Awareness
20:46 Sacred Tools and Their Significance
21:12 The Journey of Creating Handmade Decks
22:04 Communicating with Loved Ones Beyond
23:49 Personal Experiences with Spirit Communication
31:25 Teaching and Building a Community
34:33 Navigating Emotional Health and Medication
37:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
https://www.indistarcards.com/
hello@indistarcards.com
https://www.instagram.com/indi.star.cards/
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
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jill@endoflifeclarity.com
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In this episode, Michael Williams, the founder of Memoir Studio, discusses his transition from end-of-life planning to helping people write their memoirs. They explore the therapeutic power of storytelling, especially for older adults, and how sharing personal stories can offer emotional and historical value. Michael emphasizes the importance of acknowledging life's ups and downs, regrets, and failures in memoir writing. Michael shares touching stories of his clients finding their voices and the profound impact of preserving legacies through narrative.
00:35 Guest Introduction: Michael Williams
00:40 Michael's Journey: From End-of-Life Planning to Memoir Writing
00:46 The Power of Storytelling
00:55 Therapeutic Benefits of Memoir Writing
01:02 Fear of Judgment and Vulnerability
01:15 Welcoming Michael to the Podcast
01:36 Michael's Background and Passion for Memoirs
01:54 End of Life Planning Facilitator
02:55 Supporting Families and Addressing Practical Aspects
04:55 Transition to Memoir Work
05:10 Discussing End of Life Plans with Clients
06:07 Reassuring Conversations About Death
08:57 Legacy Work and Finding Meaning
12:30 Recording and Transcribing Stories
13:34 Helping Clients Find Their Voice
18:12 The Importance of Preserving Stories
18:48 Personal Reflections on Family Stories
22:09 The Value of Listening to Elders
23:19 The Importance of Journaling
23:41 Family Stories and Names
25:00 Everyone's Life is Interesting
29:38 The Power of Group Writing
30:10 Therapeutic Benefits of Writing
32:38 Challenges in Writing Memoirs
34:47 Honesty and Universal Themes in Memoirs
38:59 Dealing with Regrets and Mistakes
42:54 End of Life and Legacy
43:07 Conclusion and Resources
Links: My Substack page: https://memoirstudio.substack.com
The Memoir Studio at https://memoirstudio.ca
My personal website: https://www.michaelwilliamsstoryteller.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storycatcher/
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
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In this end-of-year episode of Seeing Death Clearly, host Jill McClennen sits down with her husband Steven to reflect on three years of podcasting. As the year 2025 closes, they discuss personal and professional highlights, stoicism, aging, and emotional experiences with death and grief. They delve into broader societal issues like elder care in the United States and the balance of everyday life. Jill also shares plans for future episodes, re-inviting past guests to explore their evolving perspectives. This candid conversation touches on navigating uncertainty, staying connected, and living intentionally.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:36 Reflecting on the Past Year
02:14 Guest Highlights and Future Plans
03:13 Navigating a Chaotic Year
06:47 Thoughts on Aging and Society
16:35 End of Life Conversations
21:33 Home Funerals and Personal Rituals
23:41 The Importance of Pre-Planning
24:22 Challenges in Discussing Mortality
28:18 Caregiving and Government Support
33:24 Reflections on Life and Death
41:08 Looking Forward to the Future
43:22 Podcast Appreciation and Future Plans
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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In this episode, I welcome back Barbara Karnes to discuss the journey of transitioning from 'we' to 'me' after her husband Jack's death.
Barbara shares heartfelt stories about her early days in hospice care, highlighting the value of understanding daily responsibilities and her experiences with end-of-life preparations, emphasizing the importance of discussing finances and duties early.
We also discuss how death doulas play a role in modern hospice care, her thoughts on medical aid in dying, the creation of her widely beneficial booklets like 'Gone From My Sight,' and offers perspectives on educating families about the natural process of dying.
This episode aims to open minds and demystify death, dying, and grief, encouraging listeners to prepare and embrace end-of-life conversations.
00:00 Introduction to End of Life Education
00:45 Guest Introduction: Barbara Carnes
01:35 Adjusting to Life After Loss
02:56 The Importance of Being Prepared
04:18 Challenges of Living Independently
07:10 Support Systems and Grief Counseling
08:54 End of Life Doulas and Hospice Care
13:31 Medical Aid in Dying: Perspectives and Ethics
00:00 Comparing Birth and Death
25:39 Contemplating Mortality and Legacy
27:12 Current Projects and Writing
28:07 The Importance of Food at End of Life
30:28 The Family Support Bundle
33:11 The Origin of 'Gone From My Sight'
36:11 Personal Stories and Impact
40:04 The Shift Back to Home Deaths
43:48 Resources and Contact Information
46:17 Final Thoughts and Farewell
https://bkbooks.com/products/approaching-death-support-kit
https://bkbooks.com/blogs/something-to-think-about
https://www.instagram.com/barbarakarnesrn/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbarakarnesrn/
Support the show
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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In this episode of 'Seeing Death Clearly,' host Jill McClennen, a death doula and funeral celebrant, welcomes Marni Blank, a former attorney turned entrepreneur and end-of-life doula. They discuss the emotional and logistical challenges families face regarding end-of-life planning. Marni shares her personal journey, including her mother's serious accident, which highlighted the importance of having essential paperwork in order.
The conversation focuses on the significance of open discussions about end-of-life wishes, the role of a death doula, and practical advice for organizing important documents. They emphasize the importance of choosing the right people for roles like healthcare proxies and how preparation can provide peace of mind. Jill and Marni also address the common barriers and emotional reactions people have when discussing these topics and offer insights into facilitating these important conversations.
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
00:43 Meet Marni Blank: From Attorney to End-of-Life Doula
00:55 The Importance of End-of-Life Planning
02:44 Challenges and Realizations in End-of-Life Conversations
03:50 The Role and Impact of a Death Doula
04:25 Personal Stories and Experiences
08:09 Navigating Family Dynamics and Responsibilities
10:09 The Emotional and Practical Aspects of End-of-Life Decisions
37:21 The Role of Medical Professionals in End-of-Life Care
41:05 Marni's Business and Resources for End-of-Life Planning
44:10 Conclusion and Call to Action
Website: https://beginwiththeend.co/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beginwith_theend/
Book a Free Call: https://calendly.com/marni-blank/marni-blank-initial-consultation
Plan Well Organizer: https://beginwiththeend.co/plan-well-organizer
Support the show
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/end-of-life-planning to learn more about End of Life Care planning and schedule a free 30-minute call.
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In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, Dave Roberts talks about his journey navigating grief after the death of his daughter, Janine. Roberts, an addictions counselor and psychology professor, shares his perspectives on spirituality, the afterlife, and the different ways he and his wife coped with their loss while supporting each other. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining bonds with loved ones, embracing varying beliefs, and the role of community in healing. Roberts discusses how his experience has transformed his approach to living genuinely and offers tips for those dealing with loss. This insightful conversation sheds light on the intersection of grief, end-of-life planning, and the potential for spiritual growth through challenging experiences.
00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts
00:11 Welcome to Seeing Death Clearly
00:36 Guest Introduction: Dave Roberts
01:38 Dave's Background and Career
04:06 The Tragic Story of Janine
08:10 Coping with Grief and Loss
17:24 Supporting Each Other Through Grief
20:56 Living with the End in Mind
24:41 Choosing Our Path: Embracing Challenges and Legacy
25:33 Teaching About Death: Finding Joy and Responsibility
27:29 Death, Dying, and Bereavement
28:56 Integrating Science and Spirituality
31:15 Personal Transformations and Beliefs
41:03 Encouraging Critical Thinking and Respect
45:48 Conclusion and Contact Information
My episode on Dave's podcast https://youtu.be/_2cYKpY88bQ?si=LUDW677SjaEN82kc
Personal Website: http://davidrobertsmsw.com/
When The Psychology Professor Met The Minister on Amazon : https://a.co/d/bWzOO3n
The Teaching Journeys Podcast : https://rss.com/podcasts/theteachingjourneyshttps://www.youtube.com/@daveroberts301
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.j.roberts1/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-roberts-56690513/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daver3103/
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jill@endoflifeclarity.com
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In this special Thanksgiving episode, Jill McClennen discusses the complex emotions of gratitude and grief that many people experience during the holidays. Early in the morning, Jill felt a mix of thankfulness and sadness and realized that she was not alone in these feelings. Holidays often amplify what we're already feeling, creating a paradox of joy and sorrow, especially when dealing with the loss of loved ones, relationship issues, or even societal pressures.
Jill emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief instead of suppressing it. She recounts her personal experiences, including the loss of her grandmother and the challenges of maintaining holiday cheer amidst grief. Jill advises on setting boundaries, creating new rituals, and finding personal ways to cope, such as art and movement.
She reminds listeners that it's okay to feel both gratitude and grief, and encourages them to reach out for support and to honor their complex feelings during the holiday season.
00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Reflections
00:50 Navigating Complex Emotions During Holidays
01:44 Societal Pressures and Isolation
02:24 Grief and Loss in Relationships
03:22 Anticipatory Grief and Global Concerns
04:16 Historical Context of Thanksgiving
05:43 Environmental Grief and Hope for the Future
06:49 The Empowered Grief Journey
08:29 Creating New Rituals and Setting Boundaries
13:37 Art as a Coping Mechanism
16:53 Final Thoughts and Support
18:09 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
Support the show
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, Jill McClennen sits down with Tolley Casparis, a death doula from Southern California, to explore the realities of supporting people at the end of life. They discuss the emotional challenges of caregiving, the importance of community, and how conscious preparation can create healing for both the dying and their loved ones. This conversation offers insight into the compassionate, yet often misunderstood, work of death doulas.
Tolley shares what it truly means to guide someone through their final days, addressing emotions that often go unnamed, such as anger, fear, and frustration. She emphasizes the power of holding space consistently and quietly, and how these small acts can profoundly impact both the person dying and their families. The discussion also covers the accessibility of quality end-of-life care, navigating medical aid in dying, and the delicate balance between volunteer and paid work in the field.
They explore the challenges around certification, the influence of social media on death doula work, and why ongoing learning and genuine community are essential for anyone supporting the dying. This episode provides an honest, grounded look at death doula work, conscious living, and supporting others with compassion and clarity.
https://deathprofesh.com/
Insta @tolleycasparis and @yourdeathprofessional
00:00 Introduction and Purpose
00:10 Welcome to Seeing Death
00:35 Guest Introduction: Tolley Casparis
01:01 The Realities of Death Doula Work
01:12 Challenges and Certifications
01:47 Personal Background of Tali Caspar
03:19 Balancing Paid and Volunteer Work
03:21 End of Life Care Plans
03:43 Dealing with Difficult Conversations
07:44 The Concept of a Good Death
17:47 Art and Grief
21:13 Certification Debate
24:19 The Challenge of Gaining Experience as a Death Doula
26:09 Heart-Centered Qualifications and Volunteering
26:56 The Debate on Charging for Services
29:08 Certification and Training Controversies
32:57 Marketing and Personal Branding
39:59 Navigating Client Relationships and Boundaries
44:46 Building Community and Setting Industry Standards
45:28 Conclusion and Call to Action
Support the show
Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
jill@endoflifeclarity.com
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Jonathan Foster joins the conversation to share the story behind Indigo, his book about the life and death of his daughter, Quincy. This episode explores how a parent’s grief can reshape faith, deepen compassion, and reveal new ways to heal and live consciously. It offers an honest look at love, loss, and the courage it takes to rebuild meaning after tragedy.
He explains how losing her forced him to rethink long-held beliefs about God, certainty, and what it means to love without conditions. Jonathan describes how this heartbreak challenged his theology but also opened space for a more expansive, healing understanding of love that is not limited by religious rules. He shares how nature, community, and honest conversations about death and dying helped him stay connected to his daughter’s legacy while learning to live with deep sorrow. Together, they reflect on the “sin of certainty,” the power of curiosity, and the importance of end-of-life awareness in shaping a more compassionate world.
Jonathan’s background spans decades of ministry, writing, and advocacy. He is a father of three, a former church planter, and a partner of one, with a doctorate in theology from Northwind Seminary. His work, including his leadership with lovehaiti.org and the co-founding of OpenTable.network, centers on love-driven community, inclusion, and human connection. His book Indigo: The Color of Grief has been praised by progressive Christian thinkers for its honest exploration of death, mourning, and healing. This conversation offers comfort, clarity, and a reminder that even in loss, beauty and meaning can still be found.
jonathanfosteronline.com
00:00 Introduction: Exploring Life and Death
00:16 Meet the Host: Jill McClennan
00:41 Guest Introduction: Jonathan Foster
01:34 A Mother's Grief and Appreciation
03:03 The Meaning Behind 'Indigo'
05:06 Faith, Loss, and Transformation
09:57 Navigating Grief and Relationships
17:11 The Divine and Gender Perspectives
20:33 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies
22:51 Questioning Good and Bad
24:17 The Absurdity of Defining Good and Bad
26:39 Leaving Religion and Asking Questions
30:48 The Sin of Certainty
34:34 Understanding Sin and Love
37:15 Unconditional Love and Compassion
41:40 The Complexity of Love and Forgiveness
43:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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In this episode, our guest is Princella Seymour, a social worker with decades of experience in geriatrics and dementia care. Princella shares how she was called into elder care work, why early planning is essential, and what families often struggle with when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
Together, they explore the emotional, financial, and logistical realities of caregiving, along with the federal and state resources that many people don’t know are available. Princella highlights the importance of honest conversations, clear planning, and making decisions before a crisis hits so families can focus on connection rather than chaos.
Her new book, Everything You Need to Know About Me, inspired by the countless families she’s supported through painful, confusing decisions, is now available on Amazon.
As CEO of Complete Elder Solutions, she has guided thousands of families through the complexities of aging.
00:00 Introduction to Seeing Death Clearly
00:43 Meet Prince Seymour: A Journey in Geriatric Social Work
02:07 Navigating Alzheimer's and Dementia Care
06:12 The Role of a Care Coach
08:01 Financial and Legal Planning for Elder Care
16:17 The Importance of Pre-Planning
19:21 Encouraging Conversations About End-of-Life Care
24:05 Navigating Family Conversations About End-of-Life Planning
24:51 The Importance of Written Wishes
25:17 Family Dynamics and Funeral Experiences
25:46 The Challenges of Caregiving
26:10 Making Tough Decisions in Crisis Situations
27:29 The Cost of Care and Financial Strain
28:13 Balancing Caregiving with Personal Responsibilities
29:33 Support Programs for Caregivers
31:18 The Value of Professional Guidance
40:35 Revisiting End-of-Life Plans Over Time
43:15 Conclusion and Resources
URL https://www.completeeldersolutions.com/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/complete-elder-solutions/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CompleteElderSolutions#
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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In this episodeI talk with Kimberley Mead, a grief therapist who transitioned from a career in the arts at age 40. Kimberley shares her journey into grief therapy and the development of her game, Morbid Curiosity, which has sparked transformative conversations about death. She discusses the importance of storytelling in grief therapy and how her game fosters deeper connections and meaningful conversations about mortality.
The episode also highlights the profound impact of discussing death on personal relationships and societal attitudes towards grief. Jill and Kimberley delve into the nuances of grief, the power of storytelling, and how addressing these themes can enrich our lives.
The episode promises an insightful conversation that navigates grief with compassion and curiosity, encouraging listeners to explore conscious living and end-of-life planning. Tune in for a heartwarming and thought-provoking discussion about death, dying, and the legacy we leave behind.
00:00 Introduction to Seeing Death
00:36 Meet Kimberley Mead: From Arts to Grief Therapy
01:42 The Power of Storytelling in Grief Therapy
02:54 Personal Journeys and Career Changes
04:01 The Game of Morbid Curiosity
06:17 Understanding Grief and Pain
09:58 The Role of Pain in Healing
12:12 Engaging Conversations Through the Game
14:54 Creating Meaningful Connections
16:33 How the Game Works
24:08 Exploring Historical Perspectives on Privacy
24:56 Deep Conversations and Meaningful Connections
26:11 Embracing Death Positivity
27:47 Navigating Personal Loss and Memories
29:46 The Importance of Deep Friendships
31:09 Creating and Sharing the Morbid Curiosity Game
39:35 The Role of a Grief Therapist
41:48 Where to Find the Game and Workshops
44:13 Supporting the Podcast
https://www.morbidcuriositygame.com
https://www.facebook.com/morbidcuriositygame
https://www.instagram.com/morbidcuriositygame/
https://kmeadcounseling.com/
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In this episode of the podcast 'Seeing Death Clearly,' host Jill McClennen talks to Jo Beth Polly about her experiences with infertility and the death of her husband from brain cancer. Jo Beth shares how these profound losses shaped her life and career in helping others navigate grief.
They discuss the isolating nature of grief, the importance of genuine support, and how such intense experiences can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of what truly matters in life. Jo Beth emphasizes that while grief is incredibly challenging, there is always potential for joy and purpose to emerge from it.
The conversation also touches on the importance of presence over busyness, particularly in parenting, and how society often misguides us. Together, they explore the idea that by acknowledging and working through grief, individuals can find a renewed sense of connection and purpose.
00:00 Introduction and Host's Perspective on Grief
01:30 Guest Introduction and Infertility Journey
02:33 Navigating Grief and Isolation
07:07 Therapy and Coping Mechanisms
10:09 Spirituality and Physical Impact of Grief
15:55 Living with Purpose and Presence
21:15 Reflecting on Life's Priorities
25:33 Discussing the Pressure of Youth Sports
26:51 Reflecting on the Impact of Over-Scheduling
28:36 COVID-19: A Forced Pause and Its Lessons
33:33 The Value of Happiness Over Achievement
38:49 Grief and Joy: Co-Authoring a Book
42:40 The Importance of Seeking Help
45:24 Closing Remarks and Support
https://nwagriefspecialists.com/
https://www.facebook.com/nwagriefspecialists
Episode with Chris Mamone our coauthor https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/episodes/16878010
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In this podcast episode, Janet Turkula and Ryan Olivera, the founders of Give Willow, a platform designed to support families during funeral planning by allowing the community to contribute financially. Janet shares her personal story of losing her father at 21 and the struggle her family faced with unexpected funeral expenses, which inspired her to create Give Willow.
The platform works like a wedding registry, enabling families to list specific items needed for a funeral, making it easier for friends and family to offer meaningful support. Ryan, who specializes in tech startups, discusses his initial discomfort with the topic of death but explains how working with Janet and understanding her vision changed his perspective.
They both aim to change societal attitudes towards death, making it a more open and community-supported process. The platform also provides resources to help with the often-overwhelming administrative tasks following a death. The episode emphasizes the importance of planning for end-of-life and reducing the stigma around discussing death.
- Janet's Personal Story and Inspiration
- The Birth of Give Willow
- Ryan's Journey and Partnership
- How Give Willow Works
- Future Goals and Vision
- The Cost of Dying and Unclaimed Bodies
- Personal Reflections on Death and Grief
- The Importance of Planning for Death
- Conversations with Children About Death
- Encouraging End-of-Life Planning
- Creating a Platform for End-of-Life Planning
- Changing the Stigma Around Death
- Celebration of Life vs. Traditional Funerals
info@givewillow.com
Ryan@givewillow.com
Website: https://givewillow.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/givewillow/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@givewillow
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Funeral director and celebrant Allyse Worland shares how her lifelong passion for funeral service began with a personal tragedy and grew into a calling to help others through death, grief, and healing. With sixteen years of experience, she offers a unique look at what it means to care for both the living and the dead—bringing compassion, artistry, and education to end-of-life care. Her story sheds light on how funeral professionals are embracing change, from eco-friendly green burials to more meaningful, personalized celebrations of life.
Allyse has worked in funeral service since she was fifteen, growing up in a small town in Indiana where community and ritual shaped her values. Today, she is a licensed funeral director, embalmer, restorative artist, and educator who trains others in ethics, compliance, and compassion. She also serves as a funeral celebrant, helping families create personalized ceremonies that honor their loved ones without relying solely on traditional religion.
Her interest in restorative art began when, at nine years old, she saw a family member who had died by suicide and felt deep sadness at how unnatural he looked. That moment inspired her to learn the science and art of restoration, helping families remember their loved ones with dignity.
Allyse also advocates for green burial options and helps families explore “shades of green”—from natural cemeteries and biodegradable caskets to eco-friendly embalming fluids approved by the Green Burial Council. She believes education empowers families to make conscious, sustainable choices about death care.
As a mentor, Allyse encourages new funeral professionals to adapt to changing values around death, dying, and legacy. She teaches that understanding grief, reducing stigma around death by suicide, and celebrating life are essential to modern death care.
After years of nonstop dedication, Allyse now embraces self-care and balance, recognizing that caring for others begins with caring for herself. Her story reflects a powerful truth at the heart of death work: by facing death with love, we learn how to live more consciously.
https://www.rememberingalife.com NFDA's Remembering A Life Website
Have License Will Travel | Continuing Education
https://www.linkedin.com/in/allyse-worland-cfsp-818109326/
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Funerals in the United States have become unaffordable for many families, often forcing them into debt, fundraising, or unwanted cremations. This episode features Cheri Wallace, who shares a powerful grassroots solution: cemetery societies. By returning to community-based traditions of shared land and collective care, she believes people can reclaim death care in a way that is affordable, sustainable, and rooted in dignity. The conversation highlights how death doulas, grief awareness, and green burial practices are reshaping how we plan for the end of life.
Cheri explains how personal loss and her sister’s struggles inspired her mission. After seeing her sister forced to turn to GoFundMe for burial expenses, Cheri began searching for a solution. Through prayer and research, she realized that communities once managed death care by pooling small contributions to purchase land and create burial grounds. Today, she is reviving this model through nonprofit cemetery societies. These groups form boards, adopt bylaws, and provide affordable burial options without the financial burden of traditional funeral homes.
Her work emphasizes conscious living and dying, as well as legacy planning. Each member can join with as little as $100, ensuring that no one is excluded from having a burial. The societies also embrace ecological responsibility by avoiding embalming, concrete vaults, and costly caskets. Families may choose self-directed funerals or bring in professionals, giving them freedom and flexibility.
Education plays a key role in Cheri’s vision. With support from the Green Burial Council and guidance from death doulas, societies learn how to operate responsibly and sustainably. Grants and petitions are helping expand the effort nationwide, to create 100 cemetery societies in 100 counties led by trained doulas.
This vision challenges the current funeral industry, which often prioritizes profit over people. By encouraging community, creativity, and healing, Cheri offers a way to honor loved ones while reducing financial strain. Instead of debt and stress, families can invest in meaningful memorials, gardens, or community spaces. It is a return to simple, compassionate death care that empowers individuals to reclaim their right to die with dignity.
https://letsbetrees.org
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In this special episode of Seeing Death Clearly, Jill reflects on three years of deep conversations about death, dying, grief, and living fully. As the podcast enters its fourth year, Jill shares what she’s learned from her incredible guests — from Holocaust survivors to hospice workers, death doulas, authors, and more.
She talks about how the podcast has evolved, the lessons it’s taught her, and the moments that have touched her deeply. Jill shares stories that moved her, guests who changed her perspective, and the surprising ways this work has impacted her life.
This episode is a heartfelt thank-you to listeners and guests, and an invitation to be part of the journey ahead. Jill also shares ways you can support the podcast and invites you to connect, share ideas, and even suggest guests you’d love to hear again.
Whether you’ve been with the podcast since the beginning or are just discovering it now, this episode is a celebration of connection, curiosity, and courage.
Email: jill@endoflifeclarity.com
Facebook: End of Life Clarity
Join the End of Life Clarity Circle Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16utkrMass/
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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Grief can change the course of a life, and for Jason Tuttle, it became both a personal journey and a calling to help others. As a father and caregiver, he lived through the daily realities of hospital stays, medical decisions, and profound loss. After the death of his son in January 2022, Jason began to share his experiences with grief, end-of-life planning, and conscious living as a way to heal and to guide others through their own journeys.
Jason and his wife were in their twenties when their first son was born with Eagle-Barrett syndrome, a rare condition that required weeks in the NICU. Over time, both of their children developed severe developmental delays and epilepsy, and Jason became the full-time medical caregiver. He spent nearly every hospital day at their sides, balancing hope with the hard truths of illness. When his son died, grief came in waves of anger, isolation, and heartbreak. Therapy and journaling offered a way to process, and writing publicly helped him connect with others who felt the same.
Today Jason continues this work by creating resources, speaking about grief and dying, and sharing his perspective on legacy and healing. His journey shows how end-of-life care and death doula work are not only about preparing for death, but also about living with purpose and love. This conversation is an honest reflection on caregiving, conscious living, and the ways grief can shape a meaningful path forward.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552174684952
https://www.instagram.com/letterstozachary2022
https://letterstozachary.com
https://www.tiktok.com/@letterstozachary2022
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I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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End-of-life doula Kasey March shares how personal loss and a background in guiding people through complex systems led her to death work. After experiencing the painful absence of support when her grandmother died in the ICU, she realized the importance of conscious planning, education, and compassionate guidance for both the dying and their loved ones. Her work centers on having conversations before a crisis arises, empowering families to make decisions grounded in values, legacy, and healing.
Kasey helps families navigate end-of-life care, plan legacy projects, and prepare for difficult decisions with compassion and clarity. She often supports clients through advance directives, hospice options, and even medical aid in dying, always centering the client’s wishes. Beyond one-on-one work, she educates communities about grief, dying, and medical decision-making, reminding people that preparation can prevent confusion and guilt later.
For Kasey, a “well-supported death” means reducing burdens, opening space for connection, and helping families integrate grief without judgment. Through advocacy, education, and compassionate presence, she works to ensure that death, like birth, can be approached with dignity, choice, and love.
Links: Website www.doulacarefordying.com
October 27, 2025 at noon Kasey will be appearing on EXIT MATTERS, a live online series hosted by Patient Choices Vermont (PCV). How our final chapter unfolds depends upon the people, support, and choices that surround us. Kasey's session will cover "What is a Death Doula?"
IG: @doulacarefordying | w: doulacarefordying.com
on death & dying: the role of an end of life doula quick watch
a good death or a well-supported death? quick watch
resources and motivation to help you and your loved ones have a well-supported death. Click here!
No visitors please, a free PDF template for when you need to tell friends and family your loved one isn't accepting visitors, click here!
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In this episode, the guest shares her journey of living with Lewy body dementia, exploring how grief, acceptance, and conscious planning shape her approach to life and death. She reflects on the challenges of diagnosis, the impact on her independence, and the ways she finds healing while preparing her legacy for her family.
Growing up in Texas, she experienced loss early when her mother passed away right after high school, which eventually led her to move across the country before settling in Indiana. With a background in mental health and years as an EMT, she recognized the early signs of her condition and understood what the future might hold. For her, grief was not about having the disease but mourning the life she had imagined for herself, including the cultural and familial roles she hoped to embrace.
Her symptoms began subtly, with coordination and balance issues that affected walking, stairs, and driving. Initial medical visits were dismissive, attributing her symptoms to menopause or depression, until she finally found a neurologist who listened. Physical and occupational therapy helped her maintain mobility at home, while support from a Facebook community of women facing similar diagnoses provided vital emotional connection and guidance.
Therapy played a critical role in helping her re-accept her diagnosis as symptoms changed her daily life, from losing the ability to drive to needing a shower chair. Her past experiences with loss informed her approach to end-of-life planning: she has prepared documents and arrangements to reduce stress for her family. She even planned a joyful, personalized living funeral. Through this, she embraces death with humor, love, and intentionality, seeking to create healing, connection, and a lasting legacy while living consciously to the fullest.
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CKRK8as8Y/
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In this episode, AJ Coleman shares his journey of losing his wife to brain cancer, raising their daughter as a single father, and finding healing through grief, storytelling, and conscious living.
AJ Coleman, author of Keep Those Feet Moving, became a widower at 33 when his wife died of brain cancer, leaving him to raise their 16-month-old daughter. He described those first months as a blur of grief, survival, and determination to honor his wife’s wishes while staying strong for his child. Though others expected him to fall apart, AJ chose to focus on love, healing, and creating memories that would keep his wife’s presence alive for their daughter.
As a single father, he learned the everyday struggles of parenting—figuring out how to dress his daughter, balancing work, and managing grief. Yet he discovered strength in their bond, leaning on his daughter as much as she leaned on him. Over the years, he kept her mother’s memory alive through photos, stories, and humor, recognizing that grief is not only about loss but also about preserving love and legacy.
AJ’s journey highlights the realities of anticipatory grief, the importance of end-of-life planning, and the unexpected ways healing unfolds. Writing his book became a form of therapy, helping him process loss while offering hope to others navigating death, grief, or setbacks. His story reminds us that while family and friends can support us, true healing comes from within through resilience, openness, and conscious living. For him, carrying on his wife’s legacy is not just about remembrance, but about choosing to live fully, despite loss.
https://keepthosefeetmoving.com/
Amazon book link
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This episode explores how writing, grief, and spiritual connection can help us process loss and live more consciously. Poet and author Cyra Dumitru shares her journey of losing her brother David to suicide, and how poetry became a vital tool for healing, end-of-life reflection, and honoring his legacy. Her story shows how creative expression can help us face trauma, navigate grief, and discover meaning after loss.
Cyra grew up in a family that cherished language. Her parents filled her childhood with stories, poems, and the beauty of words. She discovered early that writing could make imagination real, like the first time she wrote about a bird and felt its presence in the room. This love of language grew into a lifelong practice of poetry, journaling, and honoring the power of imagination.
When her brother David died by suicide, Cyra was only sixteen. She witnessed his final moments and carried the trauma and regret for years. Poetry became her lifeline, giving her a way to process the physical, emotional, and spiritual weight of that loss. Over time, she began to feel David’s presence in dreams and memories, not as “her brother who died,” but as a loving spirit who continued to walk beside her.
Through decades of writing, revising, and reflection, Cyra created a book that blends poetry, memory, and healing. She believes that writing allows grief to move through the body, opening space for discernment, connection, and even joy. Journaling, especially noticing small daily beauties, became a grounding practice that helped her reclaim inner balance.
Her work highlights how creative expression, end-of-life reflection, and conscious living help us carry grief, honor legacy, and move toward healing.
If you’re struggling, call 988 or visit the Suicide Prevention Resource Center.
www.cyrasweetdumitru.com
To purchase Cyra’s book, head to Bookshop
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What happens when a childhood fear of death transforms into a lifelong calling? Funeral director Tasha Dugan, who works at the historic Laurel Hill Cemetery in Philadelphia, shares her powerful journey from being a frightened child at funerals to guiding families through grief, legacy, and healing. Her story shows how facing death directly can open doors to conscious living, spiritual growth, and death positivity.
Tasha was born in South Philadelphia and raised partly in North Carolina before returning at age seven. Inspired by her aunt, who worked for the medical examiner’s office, she grew fascinated with the stories behind every death. That curiosity led her to work as an autopsy technician at Temple Hospital and eventually to become a funeral director, a role she has embraced for more than 15 years. Today, she finds joy in helping families participate in rituals such as green burials and hands-on care, creating profound opportunities for healing and closure.
Her journey has also been deeply spiritual. Once afraid of dying, she now embraces it as part of life’s cycle and helps others do the same. She advocates for sustainable practices like aquamation and natural burial, honoring both loved ones and the earth. Her most meaningful moments come when she sees a grieving family move from pain to peace, knowing their loved one has been honored with compassion and dignity.
Laurel Hill itself has a rich history. Founded in 1836, it was a leader in America’s rural cemetery movement, designed by Scottish-born architect John Notman as both a burial ground and a landscaped arboretum along the Schuylkill River. Families once hired renowned sculptors to craft elaborate monuments, turning the site into one of Philadelphia’s first cultural attractions. Today, Laurel Hill East and West span 265 acres of gardens, art, and history, serving as both sacred ground and a public space for remembrance, reflection, and education.
https://laurelhillphl.com/
tdugan@laurelhillphl.com
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Lisa Cox has spent her life as a teacher, guiding people through different stages of learning and growth. Now, as a death doula and shamanic practitioner, she helps individuals and families navigate the profound transition of dying. Her work blends practical support, like completing advance healthcare directives and organizing end-of-life documents, with emotional and spiritual guidance. Lisa emphasizes that dying is a deeply personal experience, and every doula brings unique skills, whether that’s bedside vigil, family mediation, or helping clients prepare in advance.
Through her monthly online Death Cafes with Morbid Anatomy, Lisa creates safe spaces for open conversations about death, grief, and legacy. She has seen firsthand how important it is for people to address end-of-life plans early, noting that hospice care not only improves quality of life but can also extend it when started sooner.
Lisa also speaks about the importance of conscious living, feeding the soul through meaningful experiences, nature, creativity, and connection. She challenges the idea of postponing joy until retirement, urging people to live richly now, regardless of age or health. Her message is clear: planning for death is not just about preparing for the end, it’s about learning to live more fully in the present, so that when the final transition comes, it can be met with peace, dignity, and love.
www.hjertehagen.net
FB and IG pages/accounts and YouTube are all under @HjertehagenHealingPassages
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095116136496
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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In this episode, I’m joined by Aaron Pyne, a meditation teacher, digital artist, and the creator of Inner Realms Journey. This imaginative and mythically inspired guided meditation experience helps people of all ages explore their inner world. Aaron blends ancient traditions, storytelling, and spiritual tools to support people in navigating life, death, and everything in between.
Aaron shares how his early fascination with mythology led him into meditation and spirituality, and how over time he integrated those passions with his skills in art and technology. The result is Inner Realms Journey, a platform offering more than 80 immersive audio meditations that guide users through magical landscapes, help them discover their unique avatars, and create deeply personal sanctuary spaces.
What began as a personal creative project evolved into something much bigger, one that’s now being used in children's hospitals to support kids facing terminal illness. These guided meditations help young people process fear, anxiety, and uncertainty, while also giving them a way to create a legacy project: a story, map, or vision of where they’ll go after death. Families can then use the same tools to continue connecting with their loved one even after they’ve passed.
Aaron also speaks about spiritual dimensions, ancestral connection, and the energetic aspects of dying that are often overlooked in modern Western culture. He shares how imagination and myth can be healing tools, offering comfort, wonder, and even excitement about what comes next.
Whether you’re a caregiver, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone curious about what lies beyond this life, Aaron’s work invites you to see the dying process through a magical and empowering lens. This conversation is filled with beauty, depth, and a refreshing approach to death that honors both mystery and imagination.
www.AaronPyne.com
www.InnerRealmsJourney.com
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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Elizabeth Wood, a sociologist who studied gender and sexuality, found her focus shifting when her mother was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2009 and later terminal cancer in 2012. Watching her mother’s final months opened her eyes to the ways our healthcare system avoids death and how families often do the same. This deeply personal experience led Elizabeth to explore death work from a more practical and emotional place, beyond academic research.
Her mother’s story was unique. After a life of unfulfilling relationships, she discovered her identity as a sexual dominant in her late 50s. Those years, especially during peritoneal dialysis, were surprisingly freeing and fulfilling for her. She even began writing about her experience for an online sex magazine, opening a window into the joy she found in reclaiming her sexuality.
Though mother and daughter always spoke openly about sex, they struggled to talk about death. Elizabeth’s mom often received mixed messages from her medical team, with some doctors avoiding end-of-life discussions and others trying to prepare her. Even as her health declined, she never verbally acknowledged that she was dying, though Elizabeth later found journal entries that hinted at her quiet attempts to say goodbye.
The experience revealed how little space there is in medicine to talk about both death and sexuality. Despite being open in many parts of her life, her mother feared judgment and avoided sharing her identity with healthcare providers. Elizabeth believes this silence, rooted in stigma and power dynamics, leads people to miss out on important support and care.
https://elizabethannewood.com
Bound: A Daughter, a Domme, and an End-of-Life Story - https://www.amazon.com/Bound-Daughter-Domme-End-Life/dp/1631526308
Between Us: Healing Ourselves and Changing the World Through Sociology - https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/B/bo215858659.html
https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethAnneWoodAuthor
https://www.instagram.com/elizabeth.anne.wood/
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Ed Bixby shares his journey from real estate developer to national leader in the green burial movement. After inheriting Steelmantown Cemetery, a family burial ground in New Jersey dating back to the 1700s, Ed shifted his focus toward more natural and sustainable ways of honoring death. His love for the land, history, and simple living helped shape a new approach to dying, one that respects nature, supports families, and celebrates each person’s legacy.
In this episode, Ed explains how natural burial aligns with conscious living and deep healing. He contrasts traditional burial practices with green alternatives, highlighting how natural cemeteries require fewer resources and allow the environment to thrive. He also shares how COVID-19 led more people to ask deeper questions about end-of-life choices.
Now, many are rethinking cremation and traditional funerals in favor of legacy trees, simple burials, and authentic connection to nature. Ed’s story offers hope and practical insight for a more grounded, compassionate future of death care.
globalgreenburialalliance.net
destinationdestinymemorials.com
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Meghan J. Maher, a death doula based in Central Florida, shares how the loss of her mother led her to this meaningful work. After experiencing grief firsthand, Megan began volunteering with a local hospice and discovered what end-of-life doulas do. The connection was instant she knew this path was right for her. Now, she helps families navigate the dying process with emotional, spiritual, and practical support.
Megan reflects on how our society often avoids talking about death. Most people have never witnessed someone dying, which leads to fear, denial, and uncertainty. She believes we need to return to being a village, offering support not only to those at the end of life but also to their caregivers, families, and communities. She talks about how nature’s cycles can help us feel more connected and grounded, even during hard times.
Megan emphasizes that doula work doesn’t have to become a business. It’s enough to gain skills and offer support informally within families, neighborhoods, and friend circles. The work matters even if it’s done quietly and without pay. She also explains the difference between hospice and doula care, noting that doulas often have the gift of time and can support families long before hospice becomes available.
As someone caring for young children while supporting aging parents, Megan understands the pressure on the “sandwich generation.” She urges people to ask for help and to offer help in creative ways like spending time with a caregiver’s kids or running errands. Small actions make a big impact. When we stop pretending we’re okay doing it all alone, we open the door to true connection, healing, and care at the end of life.
https://www.meghanjmaher.com/
https://www.instagram.com/meghanjmahereold/
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What if dying could be more peaceful, intentional, and healing for both the living and the dying? In this powerful conversation, healer and death priestess Cristabeth Ingold shares how her soul’s calling guides her to support individuals and families through death, grief, and spiritual healing. Her work spans the physical and energetic realms, blending bodywork, astrology, ancestral healing, and soul-guided practices to help people face the end of life with clarity and peace.
Christabeth works closely with the dying and their loved ones, offering bedside support and spiritual guidance as souls prepare to transition. She combines tools like Akashic records, oracle cards, energy medicine, and traditional Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage to bring comfort and clarity during life’s most sacred thresholds. Her journey began early in life, feeling called to this path through personal experiences of death and loss. As a death doula and spiritual practitioner, she now helps others heal grief, explore forgiveness, and reconnect with ancestral wisdom.
Christabeth also speaks about breaking down the cultural and patriarchal systems that distance us from death, calling instead for a return to ritual, ceremony, and conscious living. Through her work, she invites us to examine how we carry emotional pain and how unprocessed grief can impact our physical health. Whether guiding souls to the other side or helping the living reflect on their legacy, Christabeth reminds us that healing is always possible and that we can always begin again, even in our final breaths.
www.soulfullynourishing.com
https://www.instagram.com/christabethli/
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In this moving conversation, Deborah Charman and Brian Wardale share their powerful personal journeys through grief, caregiving, and healing, and how those experiences inspired their work in suicide prevention and emotional education. Both survivors of deep loss and personal struggles, they now use their stories to help young people navigate grief, end-of-life challenges, and the difficult emotions that can come with living and dying.
Brian, after his father’s stroke, stepped up to care for his mother until she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Losing his role as caregiver sent Brian into a spiral of depression, eventually leading to a life-altering suicide attempt that resulted in the amputation of his leg. Through that pain, he found a new purpose by sharing his story and helping others.
Deborah worked as a healthcare aide, caring for elderly patients who often struggled with the emotional weight of aging and dying. She used compassion and deep listening to help them find meaning in their final years. Having survived her own suicide attempt decades earlier, Deborah brings personal insight to their mission of guiding others through emotional struggles.
Together, Brian and Deborah developed an educational program for young people, focusing on conscious living, emotional resilience, and making good choices in difficult moments. Their framework teaches kids to understand their feelings, process grief, and build hope for the future. By sharing their experiences with death, dying, and healing, they help others move from despair to meaning, offering a message of hope for anyone facing life’s hardest challenges.
https://www.survivorsofhopelessness.com/
https://teensuicidepreventionsociety.com/
https://www.facebook.com/brian.wardale
https://www.instagram.com/the.iron.byron/
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In this heartfelt episode, Daryl McCullough shares how childhood grief led him to create a story that now helps others navigate death, loss, and healing. What started as a middle school writing assignment after the death of his cousin became a lifelong journey of finding meaning in grief and honoring loved ones through storytelling. His children’s book, The Story of Tree and Cloud, began as a crayon-illustrated parable about connection and the enduring nature of spirit, written in the wake of that early loss.
Years later, when Daryl’s mother was dying of cancer, he found that very book carefully saved by her, a reminder of their shared love and the deeper threads of life, death, and legacy. That moment inspired him to turn his childhood story into a published book, beautifully illustrated by his aunt, to help children and adults alike process death in a gentle, natural way. Set in California’s oak trees and infused with universal spiritual ideas, the story reflects Daryl’s belief that life continues beyond physical form, whether through nature, memory, or something greater than ourselves.
Daryl speaks openly about caring for his mother through hospice, the power of legacy, and the healing that comes from making meaning out of grief. His second book, Chubby the Bear’s Big Choice, explores bullying, friendship, and self-worth—again using storytelling as a tool for conscious living and emotional healing. For Daryl, writing children’s books is not just about entertainment—it’s about helping people of all ages sit with life’s hardest moments and offering hope that we are never truly alone.
From working through childhood loss to donating his books to nursing homes and schools, Daryl’s mission is clear: to use art and story as a bridge between grief and growth. Through conscious living, love of nature, and honoring family legacy, he’s offering a path toward healing for anyone navigating the journey of life and death.
https://www.instagram.com/author_darylmc/
https://www.darylrmccullough.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Tree-Cloud-Daryl-McCullough/dp/166571140X
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For over 25 years, Caroline has walked beside the dying and their families, offering support, stories, and sacred presence. Her work as a death doula and funeral celebrant has brought her into homes, long-term care facilities, and sacred circles, where she’s helped others navigate grief and end-of-life transitions with honesty, humanity, and compassion.
Caroline’s journey began as a volunteer, eventually leading her into long-term care where she found her calling—sitting with people at the end of their lives and learning from their stories. She described the deep spiritual moments that arise when sitting quietly with someone near death, where small miracles and lessons in compassion reveal themselves. Over the years, she’s supported grieving families, helped children understand death, and made space for people to feel and express the messy emotions that loss brings.
She shared that many people today don’t follow one faith but instead build a patchwork of beliefs. However, when death nears, fear often rises because the topic hasn’t been discussed. Caroline believes these conversations matter. She even normalized them in her own family by talking openly about funerals during car rides and creating playlists with her children for their future services.
In her work, Caroline has learned to hold space for both deep sadness and lightness. Sometimes, her goal during a funeral is simply to get someone to laugh. She’s also created rituals like “ice catchers,” made from frozen petals, seeds, and fruit, which families hang on trails as an act of remembrance and quiet healing. Whether she's singing hymns or playing rap music requested by the deceased, she meets each moment with authenticity and reverence.
Caroline’s work reminds us that grief is muddy but not hopeless, and that legacy, love, and laughter can walk beside sorrow.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-fenelius-carpenter-2001464a/
https://www.facebook.com/share/19EwSjU2xT/
www.samla.ca
Caroline@samla.ca
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When we think about end-of-life, we rarely think about archivists, but maybe we should. Emily Cabaniss, a Seattle-based archivist, shares how her work preserving the personal records of the deceased offers profound insight into grief, legacy, and dying. Her reflections reveal how archivists often act as invisible companions to the dead, holding space for stories left behind.
As an archivist in the Pacific Northwest, Emily works with unique historical records, from personal letters to business documents, textiles, and audio recordings. Her job involves preserving these items and making them accessible, ensuring the legacies of individuals and communities are not lost to time. She explains that an archive is not just a storage room but a program focused on the care, description, and access of primary sources. Emily shares how deeply relational this work can be, especially since most of the people she interacts with through the records are deceased.
She reflects on the emotional and ethical complexities of handling someone’s personal materials after they’ve died. From diary entries to correspondence, archivists like Emily witness the private lives of people who will never know they’re being seen. This creates a unique form of grief, parasocial connections to those long gone, where the archivist feels close to a person whose descendants will never know them.
Her experiences working with homicide files also highlighted the troubling ways society views death, particularly the objectification of victims. It made her more aware of how records contribute to someone’s legacy and how archivists play a crucial role in shaping how that legacy is remembered.
Emily’s story is a powerful reminder that healing, grief, and conscious living extend far beyond immediate end-of-life care. The work of archivists intersects with death care in unexpected ways, holding sacred space for memory, identity, and humanity.
To be part of Emily’s end-of-life project, reach out to her ecabaniss@winthropgroup.com
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Dr. Marc Cooper is the founder of The Contemporary Elder Institute and author of the book Older to Elder: The Thinking and Being of a Contemporary Elder
In this episode, he shares how embracing growing older can lead to wisdom, freedom, and profound healing. In this powerful conversation, he explains the difference between simply aging and stepping into elderhood, a role that brings meaning, spiritual growth, and legacy.
At nearly 80 years old, Dr. Cooper calls himself an “Elder for Our Times.” He believes that talking openly about death helps people live more fully. From his viewpoint as an elder, he sees a growing shift in awareness about dying, grief, and end-of-life planning. Instead of fearing aging or death, he encourages others to use these natural processes to deepen their understanding of life.
He reflects on how growing older gives people the chance to let go of the past, make new choices, and develop a new sense of purpose. Unlike being “older,” which society often sees as useless or in decline, being an “elder” means offering wisdom, holding space for others, and guiding with compassion. Elders, he says, have earned the right to speak freely, think deeply, and live authentically, without worrying what others think.
In cultures that honor their elders, aging is viewed as a valuable asset. But in today’s society, aging is often hidden or feared. Dr. Cooper explains that this fear comes from a culture focused on staying young and making money. He challenges that mindset, teaching that death is not the enemy, it’s a powerful teacher. When we face death, we become more alive. We learn to let go, love more deeply, and focus on what really matters.
He ends with a reflection on legacy. He invites others to imagine what they would write on their tombstone and live today with that in mind. Dr. Cooper now teaches others how to become elders, helping them use death and aging as tools for conscious living and healing.
Engage with Marc on Substack: https://drmarcbcooper.substack.com/
Learn more about Older to Elder: https://www.requestingwisdom.com/
Learn more about Marc, the Author: https://www.drmarcbcooper.com/
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This episode shares the powerful story of Diane Cordell, a woman whose entire life has been shaped by the presence of death, and her commitment to helping others understand and cope with it. From growing up in a family where death was never a taboo topic to serving in the Air Force and later becoming a trailblazing detective sergeant in the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, Diane’s journey is deeply connected to grief, trauma, and healing.
Diane was introduced to death early in life, her grandfather and father were both morticians, so conversations about loss were natural in her home. After serving in the Vietnam-era U.S. Air Force, she entered law enforcement, where she worked for 27 years. Her time in homicide shaped her deeply, as she handled some of the most painful aspects of death, including sudden loss, suicides, and the task of notifying families. She was one of the first women in her office and helped build systems of support and crisis management, all while staying grounded in compassion and fairness.
Her stories reflect the reality of how death affects families, how closure brings healing, and how important it is to talk about death honestly. Diane’s reflections are not only a tribute to her career but also a reminder of the emotional labor behind this kind of work. Diane’s wisdom is a gift. Her story encourages listeners to embrace the truth that death is a part of life and that healing often begins with a conversation.
To learn more about death doula work, grief, or end-of-life planning, visit Jill McClennen’s website or listen to more episodes of Seeing Death Clearly.
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Matt Jacobson shares the story of how losing his father changed the course of his life and inspired a deeper connection to legacy, grief, and purpose. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on fatherhood, the impact of grief, and how honoring a loved one can lead to unexpected healing and direction.
Matt grew up in Temecula, California, and was studying finance at San Diego State when he received the devastating call that his father had died. He left his plans behind and returned home to take over the family’s mattress store, an unexpected path that placed him squarely in his father’s shoes. As he ran the business, memories of his dad flooded back, especially their early morning conversations and the life lessons tucked into everyday moments. His dad had been a single father raising three boys, encouraging learning through reading and sparking Matt’s entrepreneurial spirit in creative ways, like hiding pizza money in exchange for reading assignments.
Grief gave Matt a new lens on life. He began thinking more about legacy and how quickly someone’s story can fade unless it’s captured. His father's quiet wisdom, deep respect for education, and stoic leadership had shaped Matt's values. Though his father rarely raised his voice, his words held lasting power. Matt recalls their last hike together before studying abroad, unaware that it would be one of their final moments together. His father had hidden the return of his cancer—a selfless act so Matt wouldn’t worry. Just weeks later, Matt got the call: his father was gone.
This conversation touches on grief, healing, the transition of roles after death, and how we honor those we’ve lost. It’s significant for anyone interested in death doula work, end-of-life planning, or creating legacy projects for loved ones.
Learn more about Life Books at https://lifebooks.io/
https://www.instagram.com/lifebooks.io/
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In this episode, Jill talks with her real-life friend Morgan Everitt, a death doula based in Bucks County, PA. Morgan shares how her journey began after her mom got sick in 2015. She came home to care for her, and after her mom passed in 2016, she had a powerful moment in 2017 when she overheard someone mention the word "death doula." It felt like a lightning bolt—she knew that was her calling. She started training in 2018 and has been slowly building her private practice, Heron’s Flight, over the past few years.
We talk about the important role death doulas play in end-of-life care. Morgan deeply respects hospice and palliative care and believes doulas help fill in the gaps, not compete with them. There can be tension between providers, especially in a field where most workers are women, but she emphasizes the power of collaboration. Everyone has the same goal: helping people and families have a better end-of-life experience.
Morgan shares how rewarding it is to work with clients over time, building relationships and planning ahead. That long-term support makes a big difference when the time comes. She also explains that being a death doula isn’t always easy. It can take time to make a living doing this work, and it involves much more than just sitting with people—there’s also paperwork, networking, and ongoing education.
We talk about the business side of this work—figuring out how to charge for our time. Both of us offer hourly rates or packages with payment plans to keep services accessible. We also discuss the struggle of getting people to value this kind of care. Many expect it to be free, especially when some offer it as volunteer work, which can make things harder for doulas trying to earn a living. Morgan reminds us that this work is valuable, and just like anyone else, we have bills to pay and families to support.
https://www.heronsflightdoula.com/
https://www.instagram.com/heronsflightdeathdoula/
https://www.tiktok.com/@morningtown
https://www.tiktok.com/@lamortcollective
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Tony Stewart joined the podcast to share his powerful story about love, loss, and healing after the death of his wife, Lynn. In his new book, Carrying the Tiger: Living with Cancer, Dying with Grace, Finding Joy While Grieving, Tony tells the story of Lynn’s sudden cancer diagnosis, their emotional journey through treatment, and the deep lessons they learned about life, love, and letting go. After Lynn’s death, Tony faced overwhelming grief, but over time, he found a way to live again and even to welcome new love into his life.
He shared how their world changed overnight when Lynn was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. Through clinical trials, hospital stays, and hard choices, they carved out several more meaningful years together. One of the most touching parts of Tony’s story is the two final weeks they spent together in home hospice, which he describes as some of the most sacred and beautiful days of his life.
Throughout the journey, Tony kept an online journal on CaringBridge.org, writing updates for friends and family. Over time, these posts grew into deep reflections about love, grief, and resilience. After Lynn’s death, friends encouraged him to turn his writing into a book. Carrying the Tiger brings together those raw and honest stories, offering a heartfelt look at grief and the surprising truth that sorrow and joy can live side by side.
Tony also spoke about his life before and after Lynn, his creative work, and how building a new relationship while grieving taught him that healing doesn’t mean forgetting.
https://www.tonystewartauthor.com/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DX8M6L1C
https://bookshop.org/p/books/carrying-the-tiger-living-with-cancer-dying-with-grace-finding-joy-while-grieving/99f820e6ae24fc58
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570889459153
https://www.facebook.com/tony.stewart.9083
https://www.instagram.com/tonystewartny/
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Jen Riggs shared her powerful journey of finding her true calling, supporting seniors and especially those living with dementia. After spending years as a stay-at-home mom, she pursued a career in commercial baking, only to have a major back injury end that chapter. What felt like a loss at the time became a turning point. Her cousin, a nurse at an assisted living facility, encouraged her to apply for a front desk position—and that’s where everything changed.
Jen immediately fell in love with the residents, their families, and the entire community. She found herself especially drawn to those living with dementia. These moments inspired Jen to learn more. She became a Certified Dementia Practitioner, facilitated support groups, and embraced the teachings of dementia care expert Teepa Snow.
Jen also opened up about her personal experience with her father, a brilliant man whose biggest fear, losing his cognitive abilities, came true. After years of estrangement, they reconnected just as he began showing signs of dementia. She described the heartbreak and challenges of navigating his care, but also the beauty and connection they found together. This experience solidified her purpose: to help families through these overwhelming experiences.
Now working with Dementia Family Support, Jen offers education, family counseling, and helps facilities build supportive dementia care cultures. Her message is clear: no one should go through this alone. Dementia doesn’t just affect one person; it impacts the whole family.
Jen encourages caregivers to ask for help, build a village of support, and know that it’s okay to struggle. Through her work, she helps others find strength, connection, and dignity in one of life’s hardest journeys.
www.dementiafamilysupport.org
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In this episode, I talk with Lowrey Brown and Brian Ruder from the Final Exit Network, a nonprofit organization that supports people who want more control over their end-of-life choices. Lowrey, the Exit Guide Program Director, grew up in a family where open conversations about death and the importance of quality of life were normal. She signed her first advance directive at 16 and has spent her life exploring how people can shape their own dying process, especially after seeing loved ones experience long, painful declines due to dementia.
Brian, president of the Board and a former exit guide, shares his personal story as someone who values independence and doesn’t want to suffer unnecessarily. Inspired by his mother’s end-of-life choices, Brian became involved in Final Exit to help others have more options outside the traditional medical system.
The conversation explores how Final Exit Network helps people who don’t qualify for medical aid in dying, including those with early-stage dementia or serious neurological conditions. Unlike medical systems that require a six-month terminal diagnosis, Final Exit provides education and guidance for those who want peaceful options on their own terms, legally, safely, and outside of state restrictions.
They also talk about the challenges of preparing families for this path, how social norms often don’t align with self-directed dying, and the emotional weight placed on caregivers. Final Exit exit guides support clients through every step—planning, preparation, timing, and after-death logistics—similar to what a death doula provides.
The episode ends with an honest look at legal issues, including how laws often treat all self-chosen deaths the same, regardless of context, and how Final Exit protects its work through the First Amendment by offering information, not physical help.
www.finalexitnetwork.org
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Rosalia Quintana, a nurse practitioner, has built a career in healthcare while also running a private practice focused on breathwork, psychedelic integration, and trauma transformation. In this conversation, she opens up about her struggles, including reaching the peak of her career in 2018, only to feel an overwhelming sense of emptiness and depression. Despite having everything she thought she wanted, she found herself questioning the purpose of life. She candidly discusses experiencing suicidal thoughts and the difficulty of seeing any light at the end of the tunnel. Knowing she had to find a way forward, she began searching for deeper meaning through various healing modalities, including breathwork, somatic practices, energy work, and even exploring different spiritual traditions.
The turning point came in 2022 when she had a near-death experience that completely shifted her perspective. She describes the terrifying moment of being outside her body, unable to connect with it, and the fear that overtook her. In this altered state, she was confronted with deep-seated fears, guilt, and shame, which manifested as dark, monstrous visions. She fought through these overwhelming experiences, ultimately realizing that the harshest judgment came from within herself. In her most desperate moment, she turned to prayer, calling out to God for help. What happened next changed everything.
Now, she approaches life with deep gratitude, even in the face of continued challenges. She shares the tools that help her navigate difficulties, from journaling and meditation to creative expression and movement. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that healing is an ongoing journey, and the tools we gather can help us face whatever comes next.
https://www.instagram.com/quantumalchemistmaster/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosalia-quintana-209172272/
https://linktr.ee/Quantumalchemistmaster
https://www.facebook.com/Quantumalchemistmaster
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Chris Mamone is an acceptance coach who helps people heal from grief, loss, and trauma so they can find self-acceptance and step into their power. His journey began with profound personal losses that reshaped his life and perspective.
In 2020, he experienced the death of his grandfather, and just two years later, after struggling with infertility for 12 years, he and his wife were thrilled to be expecting their first child. Tragically, their son was stillborn just one day before his due date. The weight of these losses was immense, and he had to make a choice—let grief consume him or find meaning and purpose in the pain.
Through his journey, he discovered that grief, loss, and trauma are rarely discussed openly in society. Many people told him to “move on” or “let it go,” but he realized that grief doesn’t work that way. Instead, he learned that moving forward is the key, not forgetting or suppressing emotions, but carrying them in a way that allows growth and healing. Grief becomes a lifelong companion, and when we find the lessons and blessings within it, we evolve into better versions of ourselves.
He has worked with people grieving lost children, family members, and even those struggling with traumatic, unexpected deaths. Grief often feels like slamming on the brakes while speeding down the highway—it forces a full stop, demanding us to process emotions we might otherwise ignore.
Acceptance is not about liking or agreeing with a loss, but acknowledging it as reality. Once we accept what has happened, we regain personal power and can make choices about how to move forward.
Through grief, he realized that much of what people stress about daily is insignificant. Major losses shift priorities, showing what truly matters. Losing his son, while incredibly painful, gave him this gift of perspective. He calls it the “gift of shitty wrapping paper”—something he would never wish for but ultimately changed his life. Every day, he continues to learn and practice acceptance, especially during difficult moments like his son’s birthday or the holidays.
https://www.facebook.com/thechrismamone
https://www.instagram.com/empoweredgriefjourney/
www.acceptancecoach.com
www.empoweredgriefjourney.com
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Jessica Fein shares her deeply personal journey of loss, grief, and resilience. Having lost two sisters, three parents, and most recently, her teenage daughter Dahlia—who passed away one week after her 17th birthday—Jessica's life has been profoundly shaped by death. Her memoir, which explores Dahlia’s life and the journey of moving forward together, has become a key part of her work in writing about grief.
Society widely acknowledges the devastation of losing a child, but the grief of siblings, who lose their lifelong companions and history keepers, is sometimes unrecognized. She discusses how children not only mourn their sibling but also experience the additional pain of witnessing their parents' grief, often feeling invisible in the process.
Jessica speaks about how the trauma of a long-term illness shaped their family. Dahlia lived with a degenerative disease from age five, creating an ongoing cycle of anticipatory and ambiguous grief. She explains ambiguous grief as mourning someone who is still alive but profoundly changed—whether due to illness, addiction, or other circumstances. This concept helped her make sense of the loss she experienced over time as Dahlia lost the ability to walk, talk, and even breathe without assistance. It also highlighted the loss of normalcy and community, isolating their family in ways few can understand.
She also touches on the impact of grief on relationships, acknowledging that 87% of marriages dissolve when a child has special needs, let alone a terminal illness. She and her husband grieve differently—she finds healing in open conversations, while he prefers silence. Understanding these differences has helped them navigate their loss together rather than apart.
TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClaQkyLnAaw
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/jessica.fein.92/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feinjessica/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-fein-b643b09
Personal Website: https://www.jessicafeinstories.com
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Katina Jones, known as the Purple Priestess, is a reverend with a deep love for the color purple, which she sees as a symbol of spirituality and healing. Everything changed after her mother passed away from ovarian cancer in 1988. At just 22, she had no guidebook on how to navigate such a loss. This left her searching for meaning and understanding.
To reconnect with her mother, she wrote a letter expressing her fear of not knowing where she had gone. That night, she had a vivid visitation dream—everything bathed in white except for the daiquiris they shared, just like on her 21st birthday. Though silent, the dream carried deep emotion, reassuring her that her mother was at peace. This experience shaped her belief in spiritual connections.
Years later, while working as a journalist, she attended a psychic fair and met Reverend Patricia, a psychic medium. That encounter deepened her journey into metaphysical studies. Over time, she received more signs, including dreams urging her to be present for those at the end of life. Despite the challenge of balancing work and raising children, she eventually trained as a hospice volunteer, dedicating over 100 hours to supporting patients and their families.
Last year, she launched the Purple Priestess, combining years of spiritual studies and personal experiences to help others navigate death and healing. Her mission is to be an advocate, guiding people through the process so they don’t have to face it alone. She believes everyone can honor their loved ones in their own way—whether through a dedicated space in their home, a simple remembrance rock, or personal rituals. There are no rules when it comes to grief and remembrance.
https://www.thepurplepriestess.com/
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https://www.foreverandaday.biz/
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In this episode, I welcome back Hospice Chaplain Hank Dunn. We dive into a crucial yet often misunderstood topic—artificial hydration, nutrition, and voluntary stopping of eating and drinking (VSED) at the end of life. We explore how feeding tubes work, when they are beneficial, and when they may prolong suffering. Hank shares stories of patients who regained the ability to eat, those who lived independently with feeding tubes, and others in vegetative states where continued artificial nutrition raised ethical concerns. He also touches on the history of feeding tubes, advancements in medicine, and how pop culture—like Grey’s Anatomy—portrays these issues.
Seeing Death Clearly Ep 60 “How to Make Hard Choices at the End of Life with Chaplain Hank Dunn https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/episodes/14879559
www.hankdunn.com
“Hank’s Deep Thoughts” https://www.youtube.com/@hankdunn6304
https://www.instagram.com/hospicechaplainhank
https://www.facebook.com/hank.dunn.9
hank@hankdunn.com
Article on “Minimal Comfort Feeding”https://www.jpsmjournal.com/article/S0885-3924(24)01116-3/fulltext
The “dementia” advance directive from End of Life Choices New York: https://endoflifechoicesny.org/directives/dementia-directive/
“VSED Resources Northwest” at this link: https://vsedresources.com/
Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking: A C
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Sandra Doyle, author of My Life at the Cemetery: It's Not as Dead as You Think, shares fascinating and unexpected stories from her years working in a cemetery. Her book features 88 captivating tales, ranging from heartwarming to shocking, each offering a glimpse into the lives and emotions of those left behind. Whether readers laugh, cry, or shake their heads in disbelief, every story provides a unique perspective on life, death, and everything in between.
While revisiting old notes and obituary records, Sandra realized she had a wealth of stories that needed to be told. A firm believer that every life has a story, she carefully changed names to protect privacy while ensuring the events remained true to life.
For Sandra, working at the cemetery was more than a job—it was a calling. She witnessed raw human emotions, from deep grief and enduring love to family conflicts so intense that law enforcement sometimes had to step in. Other stories were just as surprising in their own way.
Through it all, she emphasizes that while bodies may rest in cemeteries, the spirits of the departed remain connected to their loved ones. Sandra firmly believes in the presence of the spirit world, sharing accounts of widows sensing their late spouses or receiving messages in dreams. Her own experiences after losing her husband only strengthened her conviction that love transcends death.
In her interview, Sandra captures the beauty, chaos, and unexpected moments of life in a cemetery, reminding us that even in death, life’s stories continue to unfold.
https://www.optimist.org/
https://www.facebook.com/sandy.doyle.393
https://www.amazon.com/My-Life-Cemetery-Spiritual-Journey
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In this episode, Annie Sklaver Orenstein shares her personal journey of grief after losing her brother, Ben, in Afghanistan 15 years ago. After his death, Annie found little support for siblings, so she wrote Always a Sibling: The Forgotten Mourner's Guide to Grief, a book addressing the unique pain of losing a sibling. She discusses how there were no resources that resonated with her—most grief books focus on parents, spouses, or children, not siblings. As she researched and interviewed other bereaved siblings, she discovered patterns in their experiences that mirrored her own.
Annie talks about how, in the immediate aftermath of Ben's death, her parents were devastated, and she was left trying to navigate her grief while supporting them. She recalls a deeply moving moment when soldiers arrived to inform her mother of Ben’s death. The soldiers sat quietly with her mother in the kitchen, offering her their presence, which Annie believes was an act of deep compassion.
Through her research, Annie found that surviving siblings often feel invisible in the grieving process. Many try to protect their parents from additional pain by hiding their own sorrow. This dynamic creates a gap where siblings bottle up their grief, leading to long-term emotional strain. Annie’s work also reveals that society often questions the legitimacy of sibling grief, asking if the siblings were “close,” as though that should determine the validity of their loss.
Ultimately, Annie’s book serves as a resource for those grieving the loss of a sibling, offering validation for their pain and helping them feel less isolated. Whether or not siblings were close, their grief is real, and it’s time we recognized it.
https://www.instagram.com/anniesklaverorenstein
https://www.annieorenstein.com/
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Tash Ritz joins the conversation from Sydney, where she reflects on her global journey, growing up in New Zealand after being born in South Africa. With over 14 years of experience working in social enterprises, she has helped founders build businesses focused on social impact and environmental sustainability. Most recently, she authored the book Souling, a deeply personal exploration of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
She explains the concept of social enterprises in Australia, where for-profit businesses integrate meaningful impact beyond financial success. These companies work in areas such as waste reduction in fashion, food security, and supporting vulnerable populations, demonstrating that profit and purpose can coexist.
Tash shares her earliest memory of death, recalling the loss of a beloved family friend at the age of three. This experience, combined with being raised by a midwife mother, fostered an open dialogue about life and death in her household. As a Jewish woman, she has experienced the unique traditions surrounding death in her culture, where the deceased are cared for and buried swiftly. She contrasts this with the Māori practice of tangi, where open caskets and communal mourning create a powerful expression of grief.
Tash discusses how her understanding of grief has evolved. She reflects on the Western tendency to suppress emotions, which she believes can manifest in the body as illness. She emphasizes the importance of movement, sound, and somatic practices like yoga to process grief, highlighting that healing is not just mental but also physical and energetic.
Tash explores the idea that death is not only about the end of life but also the shedding of old identities, beliefs, and experiences. She finds inspiration in Eastern traditions that embrace transformation and renewal. Acknowledging the value of both medical and holistic approaches to mental health, she advocates for a blended path to healing—one that includes therapy, medication when needed, and alternative practices to help emotions move through the body.
https://souling.au/
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In this episode, we are joined by Daniel and Patrick Lazour, the creators of Nightside Songs, and Taibi Magar, the director of its Philadelphia production. Nightside Songs is more than a musical—it’s an immersive and communal experience that explores caregiving, illness, death, and the end-of-life journey. Audiences actively participate by singing, transforming each performance into a shared ritual rather than a traditional stage production.
The idea for Nightside Songs began in 2019. Originally conceived as a book musical, the Lazours struggled to capture the depth of the subject. Their experiences with palliative care and end-of-life conversations led them to rethink their approach, shaping a production that blends music, storytelling, and communal participation.
Unlike a traditional musical with a fixed structure, Nightside Songs is fluid and ever-changing. The Lazours wrote and refined numerous songs, adapting them through rehearsal and live performance. Each show responds to the audience’s energy, making every experience unique and deeply personal. This adaptability creates a space where audiences can connect with themes of grief and mortality in an intimate and meaningful way.
At its heart, Nightside Songs is both a theatrical event and a collective act of remembrance. It brings people together to confront universal experiences—illness, loss, and caregiving—while fostering connection and healing. The cast, a mix of longtime collaborators and new voices, delivers powerful performances that resonate across all backgrounds. In a world where conversations about death are often avoided, this production offers a rare and cathartic space to engage with these realities.
https://philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/night-side-songs/
https://philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/nsstour/
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In this episode, we explore memorial forests with Gillian Nye. Gillian shares her six years of experience helping families create meaningful, conservation-focused memorials through Better Place Forests.
Better Place Forests offers a natural alternative to traditional cemeteries, allowing families to choose a memorial tree where ashes are placed beneath the soil. The process is guided by ecological principles, mixing ashes with forest soil to support decomposition while preserving the health of the trees. Families can select their tree in person or virtually, with options for personalizing the memorial experience.
Gillian describes how these forests, ranging from 40 to 180 acres, are minimally developed to maintain their natural beauty. Trails, welcoming spaces, and simple amenities make them accessible while honoring the environment. Each tree is tagged for identification, ensuring families can return to visit and connect with their loved one’s memorial.
Memorial ceremonies vary widely, reflecting the unique wishes of each family. From singing songs and sharing poetry to incorporating personal items like Tibetan bells, these gatherings are deeply personal and often include meaningful rituals. Gillian highlights the beauty of adding dried flowers to the ashes and soil mixture, a touch that enhances the sensory experience of the ceremony.
She recounts touching stories, such as families recognizing their chosen tree from online photos or honoring loved ones by placing ashes together beneath a single tree. These moments, she explains, are a testament to the emotional connection people form with their memorial trees.
Better Place Forests also ensures long-term access to memorial trees by registering deeds with local counties. Families can authorize multiple ash placements under a single tree, accommodating future memorials. Gillian emphasizes the flexibility of the process, allowing families to hold back small amounts of ashes for other purposes or rituals.
This episode offers a heartfelt look at how Better Place Forests creates spaces for reflection, healing, and connection to nature, transforming end-of-life planning into a meaningful and personalized experience.
https://www.betterplaceforests.com/
https://www.facebook.com/betterplaceforests
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Brandon Zimmerman shares the fascinating history and challenges of Mount Vernon Cemetery, a hidden gem in North Philadelphia. Established in 1856, this 28-acre cemetery became a predominantly German burial ground, home to over 33,000 graves. Despite its historical significance, Mount Vernon has faced decades of neglect, transforming into an overgrown, derelict site. Today, the cemetery is an ecological marvel, with wildlife like deer, foxes, and native birds thriving amidst invasive overgrowth.
Brandon highlights Mount Vernon’s potential as a green space for the surrounding Strawberry Mansion neighborhood, an area in need of accessible natural spaces. Brandon hopes to reconnect the cemetery with the local community, fostering inclusivity and turning it into a space that serves as both a historical landmark and a neighborhood asset. Listeners will gain insight into Mount Vernon’s rich past, its present challenges, and the efforts to restore its dignity while embracing its wild, natural beauty.
The Mount Vernon Cemetery interment cards, a vital historic resource, were thought lost until a second, incomplete set was discovered in 2023. These 30,000+ cards, now being transcribed and digitized, are the only reliable means of locating burials at MVC and hold immense genealogical and historical value.
The Friends of Mount Vernon Cemetery are seeking $5,000 to complete this critical initiative, which will preserve this information for descendants, property restoration, and community engagement. 100% of your donation goes directly to the cards being transcribed. I hope you will consider donating after you listen to this episode.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-mount-vernon-cemeterys-interment-card-initiative
https://www.instagram.com/mtvernoncemetery
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Marie Miller, a medical medium and theta healing instructor based near Columbus, Ohio, shares her fascinating journey into the spiritual and healing realms. Her experiences began after a near-death experience as a child, which opened her perception to the spirit world. Growing up in a small town of 250 people, she often sensed when someone had passed away before others knew, a skill she credits to her natural connection with the unseen. Her childhood was enriched by the presence of her grandmother’s spirit, a relationship she didn’t realize was extraordinary until later conversations with her mother.
Marie began encountering a wider variety of spiritual phenomena as her abilities evolved. For Marie, every challenge presents a valuable lesson, and she believes that life’s difficulties often arise to teach us virtues or help us grow in unexpected ways.
Marie’s path led her to energy healing after discovering her sensitivity to Western medicine. As a medical medium, she uses theta healing to connect with a person’s body on a deep level, identifying the root causes of physical and emotional ailments. Unlike traditional medicine, which often treats symptoms, Marie focuses on uncovering unresolved traumas and emotions that manifest as disease. Through guided meditation and a theta brainwave state, she helps clients release stuck energy and facilitates their natural healing processes.
Marie emphasizes the transformative power of self-discovery in healing. Rather than simply providing answers, she guides clients to uncover their subconscious beliefs, fostering deeper, more lasting change. She believes understanding the subconscious is key to addressing life’s challenges and that anyone can learn these techniques with practice. Teaching theta healing is a significant part of her work, and she finds joy in empowering others to heal themselves, often working herself out of a job in the process.
Her insights into theta healing draw on ancient practices, modern techniques, and her unique life experiences. She explains that achieving a theta brainwave state, once a lengthy process for our ancestors, can now be learned quickly with proper training. This state allows access to the subconscious, where healing and transformation occur. Marie’s mission is to demystify these practices and make them accessible to anyone seeking to understand themselves and heal on a profound level.
houseofkellen.com
Facebook.com/houseofkellen
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Penny Smith, widely known as Hospice Nurse Penny on TikTok, brings over 20 years of experience as a nationally certified hospice nurse and a unique perspective shaped by her late start in nursing at age 40. Now 62, Penny embraces the wisdom of aging, especially in her work with end-of-life care. During the pandemic, she found her voice on TikTok, where her heartfelt stories about hospice care resonated with millions.
In this episode, Penny opens up about her journey with death anxiety, which once left her sleepless in her 30s. She shares how confronting her fears through open discussions about death transformed her perspective and how these conversations can improve not only the end-of-life experience but also the quality of life.
Penny educates her audience on the realities of hospice care, dispelling common myths and highlighting the choices available to those facing terminal illness. She shares poignant stories from her career, such as helping a hesitant patient reconsider his full-code status through compassionate dialogue. She also critiques the unrealistic portrayals of hospice in media, advocating for honest communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers. She aims to empower individuals to approach death with clarity, dignity, and peace through her work.
The conversation also delves into the fascinating topic of deathbed visions, often dismissed as hallucinations but frequently experienced by lucid individuals weeks before death. Penny underscores the importance of designating a trusted decision-maker and discussing end-of-life wishes to alleviate family stress during critical moments. She reflects on societal resistance to discussing death, sharing stories of patients and families grappling with these realities.
Listeners will hear about Penny's journey as a social media advocate, including the challenges of online criticism and the overwhelming support from her 2+ million followers. She candidly discusses her sobriety journey and how it underscores her commitment to authenticity and growth. Penny also previews her upcoming book, releasing January 14th, which she hopes will inspire readers to embrace mortality and live fuller lives.
https://www.tiktok.com/@hospicenursepenny
https://www.instagram.com/hospicenursepenny/
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This episode celebrates a significant milestone: two years of our podcast! Stephen and I reflect on the journey, exploring our growth, challenges, and the remarkable connections we’ve made along the way. A highlight of our conversation is our annual tradition of reviewing the past year, made even more special this time by recording in the same room, creating an intimate and dynamic exchange.
I share my deep gratitude for the inspiring guests who’ve brought their expertise and personal stories to the show. We reminisce about our decades-long friendship. Our shared history—college, running a bakery, and raising children—has shaped our exploration of aging, letting go, and embracing new phases in life.
We discuss the importance of community and stepping outside comfort zones. I reflect on how accepting mortality has helped me cherish life’s simple moments and live more authentically. Together, we explore the challenges of "cruise control" living and the courage it takes to grow beyond habits that no longer serve, emphasizing the rewards of meaningful connection and self-discovery.
I open up about my experience as a death doula, sharing how my work extends beyond sitting with those at the end of life. I candidly discuss the logistical and emotional demands of my role, balancing professional responsibilities with family life, and finding creative outlets—like designing death-positive apparel—to sustain my mission.
Throughout the episode, I reflect on how contemplating mortality has shaped my decision-making and deepened my appreciation for life. We delve into navigating life’s transitions and the importance of aligning care decisions with personal values. I share my journey as a podcaster and entrepreneur, recounting my growth over the past five years, from overcoming self-doubt to launching a successful podcast and death-positive apparel line.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com/store
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In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser shares his incredible journey of survival, resilience, and hope. At 96 years old, Ben recounts his story with remarkable detail, leaving no need for questions during this one-and-a-half-hour conversation. His experiences, detailed further in his memoir Living a Life That Matters: From Nazi Nightmare to American Dream, are both harrowing and inspiring.
Born in Kraków, Poland, in 1928, Ben was one of seven family members whose lives were irrevocably changed by the Nazi invasion in 1939. From escaping the Kraków Ghetto to enduring the Bochnia Ghetto, his early years were marked by relentless suffering.
Ben would later survive the unimaginable: four concentration camps, two death trains, and a death march, before being liberated in Dachau in 1945. Of his immediate family, only Ben and his older sister, Lola, survived.
After the war, Ben immigrated to the United States in 1947, settling in Los Angeles. He built a successful career in real estate, founding Ben Lesser and Associates, and found happiness with his wife, Jean, whom he married in 1950. Yet, his greatest achievement lies in his dedication to Holocaust education.
As the founder of the Zachor Holocaust Remembrance Foundation, Ben has worked tirelessly to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust endure. His memoir used worldwide in educational settings, offers a profound first-person narrative of survival, resilience, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.
Zachor Holocaust Remembrance Foundation- https://zachorlearn.org/
Ben's memoir Living a Life That Matters: From Nazi Nightmare to American Dream https://zachorlearn.org/product/living-a-life-that-matters-paperback/
YouTube version of this episode
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In this episode, Liz Fiedler shares her remarkable journey of resilience, transformation, and finding joy after profound loss. Raised on a cattle farm in Southwest Minnesota, Liz cultivated a love for agriculture, leadership, and flowers. Life took a pivotal turn when she married Josh, a man deeply connected to farming, and together they purchased 40 acres of his family’s original farmstead.
Tragedy struck in 2020 when Josh unexpectedly passed away from a heart attack, leaving Liz widowed with a young daughter and another child on the way. Amidst her grief, she found solace in her passion for flowers, which blossomed into a thriving cut flower farm, Sunny Mary Meadow. Starting as a small pandemic project, it grew to include wedding services, a new venue under construction, and a team of six employees managing thousands of blooms. Liz balanced the challenges of single parenthood, grief, and running a growing business with extraordinary perseverance.
Liz reflects on the trials of navigating grief, including community rumors, misinformation, and waiting months for clarity on Josh’s passing. With humor and raw honesty, Liz discusses the complexity of running a business while healing, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries, embracing joyful moments, and staying true to herself.
Now remarried to Brent, Liz’s life is a testament to resilience and renewal. Her story is an inspiring example of turning pain into purpose and living a full, intentional life.
This heartfelt episode offers a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the enduring human spirit. Liz’s candid reflections and actionable insights remind us that healing is about small, intentional steps and that joy can coexist with grief. Her journey is a moving reminder to embrace life’s challenges and celebrate its beauty, no matter the obstacles.
https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lizfiedlermergen
https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow
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David Edey, a certified executive advisor with over 35 years of experience, joins the podcast to share insights from his book Executor Help: How to Settle an Estate, Pick an Executor, and Avoid Family Fights. Inspired by his seven-year struggle to settle his parents' estate—despite them having a will—David provides practical guidance to help families avoid the legal battles, financial burdens, and emotional turmoil he endured.
David explains three essential steps for end-of-life planning and stresses that silence and lack of preparation often lead to devastating disputes, as inheritance can sometimes bring out the worst in people.
A key theme of the episode is the importance of addressing digital assets. With so much of life conducted online David emphasizes the need to organize and share login details with trusted individuals. He recounts a poignant example of a friend whose social media accounts remained active years after her death because her family couldn’t access them.
The episode also explores the challenges faced by executors, who may spend up to 100 hours over 18-24 months resolving estates. David shares strategies for avoiding disputes, such as keeping beneficiaries informed, setting realistic expectations, and preparing executors with the support of legal and financial professionals.
For families with minor children, David underscores the importance of naming a guardian and ensuring financial stability, sharing a touching story of siblings separated due to inadequate planning.
David invites listeners to visit DavidEd.com for free resources, including an executor checklist, a legacy readiness quiz, and access to his book. He also introduces the Legacy Builders Blueprint, a five-week course that helps individuals create a comprehensive plan for their legacy, including a Future File to organize essential documents and digital assets.
Estate planning may not be a popular topic, but it’s one of the most loving acts you can do for your family. Tune in to learn how to leave a legacy of peace and clarity, not chaos.
https://www.davidedey.com/
https://www.davidedey.com/resources.html
Episode of David’s podcast featuring Jill https://executorhelp.libsyn.com/how-to-live-
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In this episode, Kate Carson, a love, sex, and relationship coach, shares her transformative journey from scientist to a supportive guide for couples navigating grief and intimacy. After losing her baby at eight months pregnant, she faced the impact of profound loss on her relationships and sexuality, and she soon recognized a gap in resources for others experiencing similar struggles. Kate joined a peer support group and quickly noticed the lack of guidance addressing how grief affects intimacy. Inspired, she trained in tantra, eventually shaping a coaching practice that addresses the nuanced intersection of grief, love, and intimacy for clients worldwide.
Kate reflects on society's often "sterilized" approach to death and how it limits meaningful grief rituals, leaving people disconnected from their emotions. Likewise, she explains, sexual energy—vital to human experience—is often stigmatized, creating barriers to intimacy, especially after trauma. Kate observes that unresolved trauma can lead to prolonged gaps in physical connection between partners, but she emphasizes that rebuilding intimacy is a potent form of healing. Her work reveals how open communication and vulnerability can help couples separate their pain from one another, finding new closeness as they reconnect emotionally and physically.
Kate also dives into how trauma, particularly after loss, can be stored in the body and sometimes surfaces during moments of physical intimacy. She describes this release, which can sometimes involve grief or tears during orgasm, as a cathartic response that allows people to process unspoken sorrow. Through her perspective, listeners gain insight into the profound link between physical and emotional well-being, challenging them to see sexuality as a life-affirming force even amid life's hardest moments.
Further, Kate explores the concept of "sexual healing" as a means of restoration, particularly when intimacy triggers unexpected emotional responses. She explains that supportive affirmations, like “I love you,” can foster a safe space for vulnerability and healing. She advocates for honoring the body’s boundaries after trauma, childbirth, or illness and encourages couples to find alternative ways to connect without feeling pressured.
https://www.nightbloomcoaching.com/
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Adam Zuckerman has a unique and varied background, holding both a law degree and an MBA. His path took a different turn that led him to his current work, which revolves around estate planning and end-of-life organization.
Despite his accomplishments in law and business, Adam uses his expertise in a less conventional but deeply impactful way through his company, Buried in Work. The service focuses on helping people simplify and organize their estate information, ensuring a seamless transition for loved ones when the time comes. The company doesn’t draft wills or trusts but instead prepares individuals with a comprehensive structure to work efficiently with legal professionals and save money.
The idea for Buried in Work originated from a personal experience. Adam’s father, a leukemia survivor, passed away after a swift decline. As the executor of his father’s will, Adam managed the estate and documented every step of the process to help his family. When a financial planner praised his detailed work, it sparked the idea to share his knowledge. The website Adam created gained rapid interest, attracting over 10,000 visitors in just a week, proving the significant need for accessible, user-friendly estate planning resources.
Now, Buried in Work offers a variety of tools, including interactive guides, state-specific checklists, and even games like “One More Story” to prompt meaningful conversations. Adam emphasizes that effective estate planning isn’t just about having a will or trust; it’s about preparing so that loved ones can manage everything seamlessly. This preparation covers details as simple as paying bills and as vital as managing digital accounts or making health-related decisions.
Adam’s mission is to reduce the burden and confusion that families face during emotionally challenging times, making estate planning proactive rather than reactive. His story highlights the importance of planning ahead, both to protect loved ones and to make the most of the time we have.
www.BuriedInWork.com
CLEAR Kits: https://shop.buriedinwork.com/collections/clear-kits
Games: https://shop.buriedinwork.com/collections/games
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**In this episode my guest is Naila Francis, a grief coach, poet, interfaith minister, and community grief tender dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic support for those navigating grief, loss, and dying. Born in Barbados and raised across several Caribbean islands, she moved to the Philadelphia area as a child.
Her early career as a journalist and greeting card writer offered her unique insights into the human experience, but her path shifted as she felt called to work more directly with grief. In 2021, she founded Salt Trails, a collective designed to create safe spaces for community grief rituals, a vision inspired by the immense collective grief brought on by the pandemic.**
Naila’s primary focus now is helping people feel less overwhelmed and isolated in their grief. She creates nurturing environments where individuals can honor their losses without judgment and at their own pace, using tools and practices that support emotional well-being. Her workshops, like Writing the Broken Heart, use poetry and journaling as a way to connect participants with their emotions, offering solace and a sense of community. In our conversation, she recounts how participants have found healing by simply allowing themselves to cry and be present with their pain, a testament to her mission of giving grief the respect and space it deserves.
Naila shares her belief that grief, when approached with intentionality, can open us to more authentic living. She addresses the common fear of being consumed by overwhelming emotions and shares how fully embracing grief has led her to feel more alive and aligned with her true self. By turning toward grief rather than resisting it, she explains, people can experience profound healing and even unlock unexpected creativity. Her work is grounded in the understanding that while grief is often seen as something to overcome, it can instead be a deep source of connection and self-discovery.
For those interested in community-based grief rituals, follow Salt Trails on Instagram or visit her website, This Hallowed Wilderness, to learn more about her work and offerings.
Website: This Hallowed WildernessInstagram: @thishallowedwildernessFacebook: This Hallowed WildernessSalt Trails Instagram:
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Whitney Chew, born and raised in California, recently moved to New York. As a physician, she completed her residency during the pandemic. However, less than a year after finishing, Whitney realized that being a physician wasn’t her long-term calling. During this time, she witnessed immense death and dying, not only in her role as a physician but also on a personal level with the loss of loved ones. This experience gave her unique insight into both sides of the healthcare system—both as a caregiver and a grieving family member.
The pandemic shed light on the brokenness of the healthcare system and its lack of support for providers, leaving many, including Whitney, burned out and grieving without the chance to process their emotions.
In reflecting on her time as a physician, Whitney speaks about the uncomfortable reality that death is often viewed as a failure in the medical field, even though it’s inevitable. She notes how many physicians, especially oncologists, avoid discussing dying with patients, opting instead to present treatment options, even when they may not be curative. This discomfort creates a communication gap, leaving patients without the full picture of their prognosis.
Whitney also touches on the cultural differences between how death is handled in the U.S. versus other areas of the world, where conversations about end-of-life care are more normalized.
She emphasizes the importance of preventive conversations about death, including advanced healthcare directives, and how much easier those difficult moments could be if people planned ahead.
She also shares with us her personal experiences helping to get her Chinese Grandmother the end of life care she needed while honoring her cultural heritage.
Throughout her career, both as a physician and now as a coach, Whitney’s experiences underscore the need for open, honest conversations about death and the systemic issues within healthcare that hinder them.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/@WhitneyChew
https://www.instagram.com/theimposterdr
whitneychew91@gmail.com
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Dr. Bob Uslander, based in San Diego, runs a medical practice called Empowered Endings with his wife and partner, Elizabeth. Their work focuses on supporting people through difficult end-of-life journeys and providing personalized in-home care, including palliative care, dementia care, geriatric care, and more. With a holistic, high-touch approach, their team of compassionate professionals ensures patients and their families receive the support they need during these challenging times.
A key aspect of their practice is integrating end-of-life doulas, which adds immense value to their model of care. Dr. Uslander and his team have also founded an institute and community to provide education, training, and support for healthcare professionals who are committed to improving end-of-life care. This community also includes individuals looking to ensure a gentle and peaceful transition for themselves or a loved one. They operate a foundation dedicated to these causes.
Dr. Uslander shared his journey from working in emergency medicine, where he experienced moral injury, to transitioning into palliative care. He discovered the beauty in fully supporting patients through their end-of-life process, realizing how underserved families often are in the traditional healthcare system. This realization prompted him to establish his own practice in 2016.
A major mission of Empowered Endings is educating the public about palliative care and hospice care. Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for those with serious or complex illnesses, while hospice care is reserved for those who have a life expectancy of six months or less and are no longer pursuing aggressive treatments.
Dr. Uslander is also an advocate for MAID (medical aid in dying) and VSED (voluntarily stopping eating and drinking), supporting patients in California who qualify under the state’s legal framework which we talk about both processes and how they work. His practice offers a compassionate, empowering approach, helping individuals make informed decisions about their final moments.
https://empoweredendings.com/
https://empoweredendings.com/helpful-resources/
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Kelly Butler, based in Ottawa, Ontario, has lived in various parts of Canada and the U.S. She’s a mother of five and has worked in the realm of death and dying for 30 years, starting with hospice work in Atlanta, Georgia. For Kelly, the cycle of birth and death reflects life itself—beginnings and endings intertwined in a continuous flow. Her work has spanned decades, and she recently completed her master’s in health sciences.
Kelly is the founder of Community Deathcare Ottawa, a collective of practitioners and allies committed to family-led, community-based death care. The group’s mission is to shift death and dying from the medical system and funeral industry back into the hands of the community. This collective hosts events such as grief rituals, home funeral demonstrations, and educational talks on topics like natural burial. While the group doesn't provide direct care, they help connect individuals to the right resources within their community.
Her organization aims to inform the public about death, something society often avoids discussing. Members include death doulas, herbalists, and massage therapists, all bringing different skills to support people at the end of life. Kelly acknowledges the challenges of defining the role of a death doula, especially with varying levels of training and experience within the profession. She reflects on whether death doula work should be formalized or remain as a community-driven practice.
Kelly also teaches a mindfulness-informed end-of-life course, both as a practice of mindfulness and a contemplation of mortality. She emphasizes the importance of being present during death, noting that the body knows how to die, and it's essential to approach death with a sense of acceptance rather than fear. She likens this to facing climate change, noting that while we can't always change the outcome, we can choose how we navigate it—with presence, love, and acceptance.
https://www.facebook.com/people/Reclaiming-Death/100066604446905/?_rdr
https://communitydeathcareottawa.com/
https://learn.utoronto.ca/programs-courses/certificates/mindfulness-informed-end-life-care
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Jill Bodak, an osteopath in Toronto, Ontario, shares the deeply personal story of her father’s stroke in 2020, which flipped her world upside down. His stroke happened unexpectedly while skiing on the other side of the country, and what followed was an intense two-year journey of caregiving. Initially told that he wouldn’t survive, her father defied the odds but was left in a severely compromised state, requiring Jill to become his primary caregiver.
Over time, her father expressed that he no longer wanted to live, which led them to explore medically assisted death, a legal option in Canada. Jill’s writing throughout this period focused on family, grief, and caregiving. Her book, Loved Into Being: Reflections on Stroke and Being Indestructible, emerged as both a tribute and a conversation starter on end-of-life rights.
She speaks about the emotional complexity of caregiving and the challenging role reversal, explaining that her father's vulnerability during his recovery was a beautiful yet heartbreaking contrast to the physically active person he once was. Despite the overwhelming daily demands, they found moments of humor and connection—laughing together even when words failed.
Jill reflects on how this experience has deeply impacted her approach to wellness and the preciousness of life. She emphasizes the importance of understanding mortality and how it reshaped her perspective on treating the body and the mind. The journey through her father’s illness and eventual medically assisted death was both transformative and filled with moments of profound connection.
Her story offers a touching and honest look at caregiving, family dynamics, and the complex emotional landscape of end-of-life decisions.
Get her book here. https://www.amazon.com/Loved-Into-Being-Reflections-Indestructible/dp/B0BPGPKZJW
On Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/jill.bodak/
Website. https://www.jillbodak.com/
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In this episode, David Downie shares his profound journey, reflecting on his life and health as he nears the end of his time. Now in his 70s, he opens up about his long battle with heart issues, including multiple valve surgeries, and the challenges he's faced in managing his condition.
David candidly discusses the reality of doctors losing interest when patients can no longer be "fixed." He explains his decision to stop pursuing further treatments, choosing instead to focus on comfort through palliative care, which has helped him manage pain and improve his quality of life.
David reveals how meditation and mindfulness play a crucial role in his day-to-day existence, allowing him to navigate physical and emotional pain. He emphasizes the importance of being fully present in life, even as his health declines.
Though he remains alert and grounded, David expresses the relief that comes from accepting his fate, despite the occasional fear that creeps in. His perspective on death is shaped by his Buddhist beliefs, as he contemplates the opportunity to work through his karma as the end draws near.
David touches on the fears that come with dying alone, particularly the logistical challenges he may face as his condition worsens. He shares his concerns about the limitations of hospice care and how he's learned to take each day as it comes, without becoming overwhelmed by future uncertainties.
The episode also highlights the power of community, with a small group of friends committed to being by his side as he approaches death, ensuring he won't be alone in his final moments.
Through this conversation, David's story offers valuable insights into living and dying with dignity. His reflections on fear, suffering, and the inevitability of death encourage listeners to confront their own anxieties and to embrace life with openness and intention.
To follow along with David on his end of life journey, check out his YouTube channel linked below.
https://www.youtube.com/@daviddownie5594
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This episode is the first part of a two part episode where I had a deeply personal conversation with my friend David Downie, a former nurse who worked during the early days of the HIV pandemic. As someone who grew up in the 80s, I was aware of the epidemic but didn’t understand the full scope of what it was like for those on the frontlines. A few weeks ago, while on a phone call with David, I learned more about his powerful story, and I knew I had to invite him to share his experiences on the show.
David began by recounting his time as a nurse, starting in Colorado, when the HIV crisis began to unfold. In the early days, the disease seemed far away, affecting mostly communities in New York and Los Angeles. However, it soon reached Colorado, and David found himself caring for friends and patients affected by the epidemic. He worked in the ER and eventually at HIV clinics in Denver, witnessing the devastating toll the illness took on individuals and communities.
David shared the emotional burden of those early years when there was no test for HIV and people lived in constant fear of contracting the virus. When testing became available, the fear of a positive result weighed heavily on those waiting for answers. Later, when he moved to Los Angeles—one of the epicenters of the crisis—he worked at an HIV clinic and saw the early effects of treatments like AZT, which, despite offering hope, came with harsh side effects.
As our conversation progressed, David opened up about his current health struggles. Nearing the end of his life, he spoke candidly about his experience with heart failure and rheumatoid arthritis. He shared how his meditation practice, rooted in our shared connection at a meditation center in Philadelphia, has helped him cope with physical pain and navigate his final months with greater peace. David’s reflections on the inevitability of pain and death, and how meditation has shifted his perspective, offer a powerful message on finding acceptance and serenity in the face of life’s greatest challenges.
You can follow David's personal journey on his YouTube page. https://www.youtube.com/@daviddownie5594
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Dr. Viola Pierce, or Dr. V, has had a truly remarkable journey in the nursing profession, from starting as an LPN to becoming a doctorally prepared nurse with extensive experience in the emergency department. Her passion for nursing and education is evident in her commitment to helping other nurses not only survive but thrive in their careers. Through her work as a nurse business coach, Dr. V empowers nurse coaches and consultants to build successful businesses that allow them to work from anywhere in the world and on their own terms.
Dr. V's experiences in the ER, where she witnessed both the triumphs and tragedies of life, have deeply shaped her approach to nursing and life. Her belief in the importance of living fully in the "dash" between birth and death, along with her commitment to solving problems within the healthcare system, drives her mission to create better opportunities for nurses. By teaching nurses how to establish coaching and consulting businesses, she aims to revolutionize healthcare by enabling more personalized and efficient patient care, such as through the creation of infusion centers and home health agencies.
Dr. V's personal experiences with loss, including the deaths of her family members, have also informed her compassionate approach to patient care, particularly in end-of-life situations. Her ability to connect with patients and their families, often going above and beyond her duties, highlights the deep empathy and dedication she brings to her work. Whether she's teaching nurses, supporting families, or sharing her faith, Dr. V is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others, both within and outside the healthcare system.
https://www.facebook.com/viola.pierce1010
https://www.facebook.com/vpnursing/
https://www.instagram.com/vpnursing/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-viola-pierce-58885ab9/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXyEL-PwF8Q599gf9YEL_PA
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/morning-infusion-with-dr-v-nursing-podcast/id1568626898
https://www.tiktok.com/@vpnursing
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**Rose Luardo is a vibrant, multifaceted artist living in South Philadelphia, where she engages in various odd jobs, art projects, and gigs. She's a person who's always been intrigued—and admittedly a bit obsessed—with the concept of death.
In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly**, Rose reflects on the human condition and our relationship with mortality, presenting a perspective that challenges conventional views of human exceptionalism. She questions why humans consider themselves more special than other species, highlighting our tendency to see ourselves as the pinnacle of evolution, even though we're just another part of Earth's complex system.
Rose resonates with the idea that the Earth will continue without us, and in the grand scheme, things will be fine, even if it means that cockroaches inherit the Earth. She emphasizes the importance of accepting what we can and cannot control, advocating for the idea that we should strive to be the best humans we can be, despite our imperfections and the guilt and shame we may carry.
Rose notes the recent cultural shift towards discussing death more openly, recognizing the value in training people to assist with this transition. She shares a personal anecdote about attending the Beautiful Death Expo, where death was normalized and discussed in a way that felt as ordinary as visiting a mall.
The conversation also touches on the deep emotional experiences of those who have lost loved ones, particularly children, and how these realities are part of the human experience. Rose discusses the importance of facing these harsh truths head-on rather than ignoring them, suggesting that acknowledging death and trauma can lead to a more meaningful life.
Throughout, Rose reflects on how her understanding of death has influenced her life, making her feel lighter and less concerned with material pursuits. This perspective has allowed her to live more freely, shedding the pressures of capitalist values and embracing a simpler, more purposeful existence.
The conversation explores the physical changes that come with aging and menopause, and how these changes prompt a deeper consideration of mortality. This acceptance of the natural progression of life aligns with the overall theme of letting go and finding peace in the inevitability of death.
This episode offers listeners a profound and candid exploration of death, aging, and the human experience, challenging them to reconsider their relationship with life and mortality.
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Rose Luardo is a vibrant, multifaceted artist living in South Philadelphia, where she engages in various odd jobs, art projects, and gigs. She's a person who's always been intrigued—and admittedly a bit obsessed—with the concept of death, a curiosity that began in her childhood, possibly sparked by watching The Exorcist too young. This fascination with the unknown led her to create a coffin for a 2017 exhibition at Practice Gallery, an object she couldn't part with and eventually placed in an empty lot near her home.
Her father, a Filipino psychiatrist, greatly influenced her. He was open to discussing anything, from his life in the Philippines to cultural observations, which Rose recorded during a dialysis cruise. These recordings formed part of an art piece that combined her father's stories with a playful, yet poignant, commercial for a fictional "used coffin service."
Rose's work explores the intersection of death and life, evident in her "rave coffin," made from plush materials that evoke a comforting, womb-like environment. This piece invited visitors to experience her father's stories from within the coffin, challenging the fear and discomfort often associated with death.
Rose reflects on society's discomfort with death, contrasting it with the past when death was a more intimate, communal experience. She draws parallels between sex and death, noting that while both are often taboo, people are more willing to engage in conversations about sex, even though death is an inevitable part of life.
In contemplating death, Rose has turned to plant medicines like ayahuasca, seeking to understand the death experience better. She suggests that these experiences, along with practices like meditation, could be ways to prepare for death, a notion supported by recent studies on the therapeutic use of psychedelics for end-of-life anxiety.
Rose believes that confronting our fears—whether through art, conversation, or personal exploration—strengthens us and provides a deeper understanding of life's impermanence. As she notes, our culture often tries to avoid discomfort, yet life is inherently uncomfortable. By engaging with the things that scare us, we build resilience and come to terms with the transient nature of existence.
In a world increasingly disconnected from the realities of death, Rose's work and reflections offer a valuable perspective on embracing the inevitable with curiosity, creativity, and a touch of humor.
https://phillyfringe.org/events/crone-castle/
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Indra Rinzler is an astrologer who has been on a spiritual journey for over 50 years, specializing in Vedic astrology and the Enneagram of Personality. His work focuses on helping people discover their true selves, beyond who they think they are. With a unique perspective shaped by his extensive time in India and a deep commitment to spiritual growth, Indra shares his insights on life, happiness, and the inevitable journey toward death.
Moving to California, he started a commune with a focus on learning about life. This experience, combined with the early loss of both parents, allowed him to follow his path freely, exploring the deeper questions of happiness and fulfillment.
One of Indra's core beliefs is that life isn't designed to make us happy. Instead, happiness is something we must actively pursue, often by letting go of control and surrendering to what is. He discusses the challenges we face—ego, arrogance, insecurity, and societal expectations—that block our path to happiness. Indra suggests that these obstacles are not just to be overcome but are also opportunities for growth, reflecting where we are holding on too tightly to certain beliefs or desires.
Indra also delves into the concept of death, influenced by his study of Indian teachings that view life and death as a continuum. He emphasizes the importance of daily preparation for death, whether through meditation or other practices that encourage letting go of attachments. This preparation isn't about final exams but about daily practices that help us detach from the material world and find peace with what is.
Indra's philosophy extends to the idea of karma and life lessons. He suggests that our lives are shaped by choices made before birth, where we might have agreed to face certain challenges to learn specific lessons. This perspective helps his clients understand their struggles as part of a greater purpose, leading to a sense of relief and acceptance.
In his later years, Indra finds freedom in knowing less and needing less each day. He embraces the idea of surrender, letting go of control, and being content with what is. His journey is one of continual learning and letting go, finding happiness not in changing circumstances but in accepting them.
IndraRinzler.com
IndraRinzler@gmail.com
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Stephanie Chevrier, an artist based in Vancouver, Canada, has found herself deeply immersed in the exploration of death, reality, and what it means to be human. As an artist, she primarily works as a tattoo artist and illustrator, with a strong affinity for black ink. However, her curiosity extends far beyond her artistic pursuits, as she delves into the mysteries of consciousness and the afterlife.
Stephanie’s journey into the death space began with a fascination for near-death experiences (NDEs) and the scientific and personal accounts surrounding them. This exploration opened her mind to questions about what happens after death, the nature of reality, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Despite her skepticism, she found the research and stories compelling enough to challenge her lifelong beliefs.
Through her research, Stephanie noticed significant improvements in her mental health and relationships. She observed that by integrating conversations about death into daily life, she became more present and appreciative of the moments she shared with loved ones. This newfound perspective has inspired her to live fully in the present, embracing life’s fleeting nature.
Stephanie has also been deeply moved by the spiritual aspects of her work, which has led her to trust in the universe’s guidance and to let go of rigid plans. She believes that by listening to the subtle cues of the heart and following them, one can move toward their true purpose.
As she continues to share her insights on death and the afterlife, Stephanie remains open to the possibility that there is more to life than we can understand through materialism alone. She acknowledges that while science has made strides in understanding these phenomena, there is still much that remains beyond our comprehension. Ultimately, Stephanie hopes that by discussing these topics, people will become more open to the mysteries of life and death, leading to a deeper connection with themselves and others.
https://www.instagram.com/live.deathless/
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Rev. Christine Davies, the director of pastoral care at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey, shares her journey into hospital chaplaincy. As an ACPE supervisor and seminary professor, she teaches the art of hospital chaplaincy and educates clergy. Christine’s path began with a deep connection to her local Presbyterian church, a passion for helping others, and an early career as an EMT. This combination of experiences led her to shift from a pre-med major to religion, ultimately embracing chaplaincy. Her love for spiritual questions and supporting people during vulnerable times fueled this transition.
Christine's work involves addressing the spiritual and emotional needs of patients and families, especially during end-of-life situations. She emphasizes the importance of being present, listening, and holding space for individuals to explore their beliefs and emotions. Christine highlights the challenges chaplains face, such as dealing with the uncertainty of their impact and the complexities of supporting people through their spiritual distress.
In her role, Christine also focuses on advanced care planning, helping patients appoint healthcare proxies and discuss their wishes for end-of-life care. She stresses the importance of having these conversations early to alleviate the burden on loved ones during critical moments.
**Christine’s approach to chaplaincy extends beyond traditional religious boundaries. She recognizes that spirituality can exist outside of formal religion, offering support to individuals regardless of their beliefs. She often encounters people grappling with anger towards God or struggling with long-held beliefs that no longer serve them in their current situations. Christine’s compassionate presence allows for open exploration of these feelings.
Christine’s work is not limited to the hospital setting. She has also led bereavement groups and facilitated advanced care planning discussions in community settings.**https://www.christinevdavies.com
https://journeyingalongside.substack.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rev-christine-davies/
https://www.instagram.com/cvdavies/
https://www.facebook.com/christine.davies
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Yvonne Caputo, from Southeastern Pennsylvania, is deliciously semi-retired after a varied career. She began in education, moved to the area, and leveraged her second master's degree in clinical psychology to work in employee assistance. Eventually, she became the vice president of human resources for a retirement community, which was her last full-time job.
Her experience in the retirement community provided deep insights into aging, observing both the grace and struggles of residents and the critical importance of advanced directives. This perspective was invaluable when caring for her parents.
Her experience informed her own end-of-life planning, including completing an advanced directive and the "Five Wishes" document. She has had thorough discussions with her children and stepchildren about her wishes, emphasizing not wanting them to personally care for her but to find a good place for her when the time comes.
A poignant story she shares involves her father, they went through the document question by question, leading to an intimate and precious moment between them. His wishes were witnessed and shared with his medical team, making his final days more comfortable and aligned with his desires. Yvonne's father passed away in January 2010. This clarity helped Yvonne and her family ensure his final wishes were respected.
Yvonne highlights the importance of these conversations and documents, not only for ensuring one's wishes are respected but also for the peace and clarity they bring to loved ones. She emphasizes that while such discussions might seem daunting, they often lead to profound and intimate connections, as they did with her father.
Through her work and personal experiences, Yvonne advocates for others to engage in end-of-life planning. She believes that these preparations allow individuals to live their lives fully, knowing that their final wishes will be honored. She continues to share her journey and insights, encouraging others to embrace this important aspect of life.
https://ingeniumbooks.com/yvonne-caputo/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-caputo-1449137/
https://www.fivewishes.org/
yvonneauthor4@gmail.com
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**In this episode, George Ackerman, also known as “Sharon's son George”, shares his deeply personal journey of caring for his mother, who battled Parkinson's disease.
He lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman, on 1/1/2020 due to Parkinson's Disease. To honor his mother and continue helping in the Parkinson's awareness cause, George started TogetherForSharon® as a family initiative to keep Sharon Riff Ackerman's memory alive and to spread the message of Parkinson's Awareness and hope for a cure. Today, https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands across the country for PD Awareness.**
George discussed the importance of early diagnosis, noting the Michael J. Fox Foundation's progress in identifying a biomarker for Parkinson's. He hopes this research will lead to a simple blood test for early detection, which could significantly impact treatment and quality of life.
The conversation also touched on the emotional toll of caregiving and advocacy. George shared how his mother's hallucinations and delusions added to the difficulty of her care, ultimately leading to heartbreaking moments. Despite the challenges, he continues to fight in her memory, advocating for better support and awareness for those affected by Parkinson's.
**He highlighted the importance of self-care for caregivers, acknowledging his own struggles with balancing advocacy and personal well-being. George's story underscores the necessity of community support and the power of collective voices in the fight against Parkinson's.
George remains dedicated to his mission, driven by his mother's memory and the desire to prevent others from feeling alone in their journey. His advocacy extends to supporting the National Plan to End Parkinson's Disease, urging listeners to reach out to their senators for support.**
George is on a mission, and nothing will stop him until there is a cure. Join him and share in the mission toward a cure at https://www.togetherforsharon.com
Author of "A Son’s Journey from Parkinson’s Disease Caregiver to Advocate." To order your copy, click https://a.co/d/aWk7A3K. Available in Kindle/eBook and Hardcover at https://www.togetherforsharon.com/my-book/.
Social media links are available at https://linktr.ee/togetherforsharon.
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Dr. Marie Gasper Hulvat, hailing from Canton, Ohio, originally grew up in Omaha, Nebraska. She is a human design specialist, an intuitive EFT practitioner, and a trained Reiki master teacher in the Tibetan Usui tradition. Her journey began with Reiki, where during her Reiki One training, she encountered disembodied souls for the first time, an intense and sometimes painful experience.
Throughout her practice, Dr. Hulvat has encountered various souls, from children afraid of going to hell to a school shooter worried about the children he harmed. Her approach involves acknowledging their existence, expressing universal love, and helping them realize their fundamental essence as love. This realization often facilitates their transition into the light.
Dr. Hulvat's experiences have transformed her attitude toward death. Once terrified, she now sees death as a natural and peaceful transition, akin to life continuing in a different form. Her work has clarified her understanding of concepts like hell and purgatory, viewing them as states of being stuck rather than places of eternal torment.
She recommends reading "Under the Whispering Door" by T.J. Klune, a story about a man who helps souls transition, which closely mirrors her own experiences. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53205888-under-the-whispering-door
In conclusion, Dr. Hulvat's journey with Reiki and tapping has profoundly shaped her understanding of life, death, and the energetic connections between them. Her compassionate and intuitive approach continues to help many souls find peace and transition smoothly into the light.
https://www.soulstarattunement.com
Intuitive EFT Group Coaching:
https://zzdflzz.xperiencify.io/intuitive-eft/order/
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Sean Lynch has been writing his whole life. His first poetry book was published over a decade ago in 2013; since then, he's released four more. His latest book, “Halo Nest: poems on grief” is a deeply personal collection about grief, began nearly seven years ago after his mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2016. Sean's mother battled the disease for about a year before passing away at 59.
The new poetry book is intimately tied to places, Sean often visited his mother at Our Lady of Lourdes, the grief he felt during these times heightened his awareness of his surroundings, connecting him deeply to the spaces he frequented.
His mother passed away quickly, despite initial expectations. Sean vividly remembers being at his parents' place in Wildwood when she was brought home for hospice care. The emotional experience of seeing his family gather and the strange coincidences of numbers around her death stuck with him, influencing his poetry.
Writing this book was a cathartic process for Sean. Initially, he didn't intend to write about his mother's illness, but being a prolific writer at the time, he naturally recorded his experiences. One poignant poem, "The Day After," captures his raw emotions following his mother's death.
Sean's journey through grief was supported by antidepressants for several years, though he found the grieving process different when he stopped taking them. He talks about the balance of maintaining one's life amidst grief and the desensitization to death in public spaces.
Sean has had book readings throughout the Philadelphia region and has one coming up at the Pen and Pencil Club in Philadelphia on July 14th. His book, “Halo Nest: poems on grief” is available on Amazon and you can find it at the link below.
https://www.amazon.com/Halo-Nest-poems-Sean-Lynch/dp/B0D1NXJT8L
https://linktr.ee/seanlynchpoet
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Shelby Forsythia helps grieving people move through the pain and overwhelm of loss to experience peace, purpose, and joy again. She believes everyone deserves a good life, even if it’s not the one they thought they’d be living. Shelby Forsythia (she/her) is a grief coach, author, and podcast host. In 2020, she founded Life After Loss Academy, an online course and community that has helped dozens of grievers grow and find their way after death, divorce, diagnosis, and other major life transitions.
After her mother’s death in 2013, Shelby became a “student of grief” and now devotes her days to reading, writing, and speaking about loss. She never planned to become a grief coach, author, or speaker on grief. Like many who enter this line of work, she was profoundly changed by loss. Growing up in North Carolina, her childhood was idyllic—soccer, piano lessons, theater. Her parents stayed together, and she faced no major losses until her father lost his stable job, marking the beginning of what she calls the "four years of hell." This period included her father's brain aneurysms and surgery, her coming out as queer, and ultimately, her mother's death.
The cumulative losses were overwhelming, not just her mother's death but a loss of faith, home, and family structure. Her grief was multi-layered, a common experience shared by many she works with. Initially motivated and excited about life, she became uncertain if life could ever be good again. Almost ten years later, she finds herself in a space where life does feel good again, which sometimes feels like a miracle.
Being queer has taught her resilience and creativity, valuable in grief. Coming out prepared her to seek alternative support systems and healing methods. The intersection of queerness and grief brings a unique perspective, allowing her to reimagine life in more colorful, softer, and fluid ways. This adaptability is a blessing, offering new possibilities in loss.
Her podcast, Dear Grief Guide, is a gateway for listeners to connect with her work. It stands as a testament to her journey and the wisdom she’s gained, helping others navigate their grief with compassion and creativity.
https://www.shelbyforsythia.com/ Acccess Shelby's Free Workshop: Grow Through Grief: 3 Ways to Stop Feeling Stuck and Start Moving Forward
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Dr. Jeffrey Sankoff, originally from Montreal, Quebec, Canada moved to Denver over two decades ago, where he has been practicing as an emergency physician while raising their children. Outside of medicine, Dr. Sankoff is an avid triathlete and triathlon coach, hosting a podcast on the sport.
He shares how early-career doctors often grapple with feelings of failure when a patient dies, a process complicated by the litigious nature of the medical environment. Laws allowing physicians to apologize without admitting liability have improved communication with families, making difficult conversations slightly more manageable.
In discussing these conversations, Dr. Sankoff emphasizes the importance of being direct and compassionate. He strives to provide clarity and support to families during their most challenging moments, ensuring they leave without unanswered questions. The emotional toll of his work, especially when it involves children or unexpected violent deaths, is significant. He finds solace in physical activities like swimming, biking, and running, which help him recharge mentally.
Dr. Sankoff contrasts the healthcare systems of Canada and the United States, highlighting the benefits of Canada's single-payer system despite its flaws. He criticizes the profit-driven nature of American healthcare, arguing that it leads to worse outcomes and greater financial burdens for patients. He advocates for a system focused on patient care rather than profit, pointing out the ethical conflicts inherent in the current U.S. model.
Dr. Sankoff's philosophy on life and death extends to his approach to aging and health. He believes in staying active to maintain a high quality of life, seeing a direct correlation between how one lives and dies. He observes that those who live well tend to have better end-of-life experiences, advocating for a balanced, active lifestyle to maximize longevity and well-being.
Ultimately, Dr. Sankoff contemplates the medicalization of death and the societal fear of dying, advocating for a more accepting and prepared approach. He envisions a future where more people can die at home, surrounded by loved ones, rather than in the sterile environment of a hospital. This holistic view of life and death underscores his commitment to his profession and personal life, aiming to live fully and prepare for the inevitable with grace and acceptance.
www.tridoccoaching.com
www.tridocpodcast.com
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Lisa Pahl is a licensed clinical social worker in LA, she has extensive experience in community mental health, domestic violence, and supporting survivors of torture.
Early in her career, she worked at the Florida Center for Survivors of Torture, and after moving to LA, she worked in community mental health for several years. She then switched to working in hospice care, where she found her true calling.
In 2018, she co-created The Death Deck with her business partner, Lori. The idea stemmed from Lori's experience with her husband Joe's terminal illness, where Lori felt unprepared for making critical decisions. The Death Deck was designed to help people have meaningful conversations about death and end-of-life preferences before a crisis occurs. The deck includes 112 cards, many of which are multiple-choice to make the conversation easier and even inject humor to lighten the mood.
She shares her experiences hosting events like Death Over Drafts, where people gather in breweries to discuss death in a relaxed setting. These events foster a sense of community and help normalize conversations about death and dying. She highlights the importance of having these conversations to prepare for the inevitable and reduce the emotional burden on families.
For those interested in learning more, The Death Deck is available on their website and she welcomes connections and questions from anyone looking to engage further in these vital conversations.
https://thedeathdeck.com/
https://www.facebook.com/thedeathdeck/
https://www.instagram.com/thedeathdeck/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-pahl-lcsw-89669070/https://www.deathoverdrafts.com/
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In this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, I spoke with my friend Ashley Holmes, a Holistic Fertility Coach dedicated to supporting women struggling with infertility by bringing mind, body, and spirit into balance. Her journey began from personal experience, facing her own fertility challenges, which inspired her to help others. Ashley noticed the widespread, unspoken grief and suffering that comes with infertility and miscarriage. To provide a supportive community, she created a Facebook group for individuals worldwide to share their experiences and find hope.
**Ashley discussed the profound grief associated with infertility and miscarriage, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and honoring this grief rather than suppressing it. She emphasized that moving forward requires addressing these emotions instead of simply trying again without processing the pain.
Ashley's background is rooted in a small town in Manitoba, Canada. At 18, she moved to New Zealand, married a Kiwi, and eventually returned to Canada with her three children. Her life was marked by significant losses, including the death of her brother at 11 and her stepbrother later in life. These experiences shaped her compassionate nature and her understanding of grief's impact on the nervous system. Yoga played a transformative role in Ashley's healing journey. Initially drawn to the physical practice, she discovered the deeper benefits of yoga, particularly the yin and restorative practices that help release stored emotions and stress.**
Ashley works one-on-one with clients, offering personalized and customized programs that include yoga, yoga nidra meditations, chakra balancing, reiki, and Ayurveda. She believes in a holistic approach to fertility, emphasizing the need to address emotional healing before moving forward.https://www.instagram.com/ashley_holmes3202/
https://www.facebook.com/ashley.holmes.3979
Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/271957647919481/?ref=share_group_link
Website (with Links to Books):
https://holisticfertilitycoachinc.my.canva.site/
Free Gift Healing Hearts Meditation
subscribepage.io/C2MZms
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My guest in this episode is Stephanie Jones. One significant childhood memory involves the first time she remembers discussing death. This incident led to a brief conversation about death, spurred by her grandmother's passing soon after. Growing up as a Jehovah's Witness, death was framed within the context of resurrection and an afterlife, which provided some comfort but also left her with many unanswered questions.
Leaving the Jehovah's Witness faith at 22 was a pivotal moment. She found the religion's misogynistic views stifling and couldn't reconcile her own life choices with its teachings. Married at 18 and a mother by 19, she struggled within a community that didn't support her personal growth. Her breaking point came when religious elders blamed her for her husband's irresponsible behavior, prompting her to leave the church. This departure allowed her to explore her identity, eventually coming out as a lesbian, which led to her being disassociated from the church and estranged from her family and community.
Her mother's death marked another turning point. Her mother died unexpectedly after a battle with cancer, which she had kept secret. The emotional distance and lack of communication left her with a mix of anger and grief, especially as she learned more about her mother's difficult life after her passing. Open and honest conversations with her kids transformed their relationship, fostering understanding and closeness that had previously been missing.
Reflecting on her mother's life and their strained relationship, she now feels empathy rather than resentment. Learning about her mother's hardships helped her understand the woman behind the struggles, providing a sense of closure and forgiveness. This perspective has informed her current work, where she empowers busy moms to manage their time effectively, helping them focus on health and relationships. Through VIP sessions, she guides them in automating their homes, organizing their schedules, and finding balance, aiming to prevent stress and burnout and enhance their quality of life.
https://astounding-founder-9607.ck.page/ac48824d00
https://www.instagram.com/steph_theboundariesbabe/
https://www.facebook.com/StephtheBoundariesBabe
https://www.tiktok.com/@theboundariesbabe
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In this episode, my guest is Dr. Brendan Kwiatkowski, an educator, researcher, and speaker focused on the social-emotional development and well-being of boys and men. Brendan, who earned his Ph.D. in Education from the University of Edinburgh in 2023, conducted an in-depth study on the emotions, masculinities, and schooling experiences of teenage boys. His interdisciplinary research merges psychology, sociology, and education to humanize and empower participants by giving voice to their lived experiences.
Brendan's work explores why some boys are highly emotionally expressive while others are not, and how these differences shape their beliefs about masculinity. He teaches at a local university, training future teachers, and works directly with boys and men to help them connect with their emotions in healthy ways.
A key theme discussed is the concept of restrictive masculinity, which includes the harmful messages boys receive about suppressing emotions, needing to be self-reliant, and feeling the pressure to dominate. These beliefs can lead to emotional disconnection from a young age, often around age five and during early adolescence (13-15 years). This disconnection is reinforced through societal norms and personal experiences, such as funerals, where boys learn to suppress sadness because they see men around them doing the same.
Brendan emphasizes that expressing emotions is crucial but warns that doing so in unsafe environments can be detrimental. He notes that suppressed emotions can resurface in harmful ways, such as anger or violence, often displaced onto others. This is evident in scenarios like domestic violence spikes following sports events.
Brendan highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for emotional expression. Teenage boys often restrict their emotions due to fear of judgment, not wanting to burden others and the fear of being hurt by emotional closeness. He encourages honest conversations and support among boys and men to break these patterns of emotional suppression.
In the broader context, Brendan points out that while both socialization and biology play roles in shaping behaviors, socialization significantly impacts emotional expression. He also touches on the importance of understanding grief as a complex emotional experience, often involving a mix of sadness, anger, and even humor, which can be overwhelming without proper support.
https://remasculine.com/
https://ifs-institute.com/
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In this episode, my guest is Ashley Oppon, host of "Dine with the Divine." Ashley, a registered nurse from New Jersey, describes her nursing job as her "muggle job," revealing her love for theology and religion. Growing up Catholic, Ashley's curiosity led her to explore various faiths, finding something meaningful in each. This exploration shaped her understanding of human belief systems and the cultural significance of faith worldwide.
Ashley's professional journey in oncology for the past seven years brought her face-to-face with death regularly. Her multicultural background, with roots in West Africa, exposed her to vibrant funeral traditions, contrasting with the more reserved American approach to death. These experiences sparked her interest in understanding and supporting others through the grieving process.
Working as a nurse, Ashley witnessed diverse reactions to death, from acceptance to fear. Her exposure to hospice care deepened her conviction that death should be approached with acceptance and understanding, rather than fear. This led her to explore the role of death doulas, eventually inspiring her to provide support for those facing end-of-life decisions.
Ashley emphasizes the importance of living without regrets and embracing life fully. She encourages people to address unresolved issues and live authentically, drawing from her belief that acknowledging death's inevitability can lead to a more fulfilling life.
In a society focused on prolonging life, Ashley advocates for acknowledging death as a natural part of existence. She believes that accepting death's reality can alleviate the fear surrounding it and facilitate healthier grieving processes. By embracing the transient nature of life, Ashley hopes to empower individuals to live with purpose and find peace in the face of mortality.
https://www.instagram.com/dinewiththedivine
https://www.sankofahealingsanctuary.com/
https://www.instagram.com/sankofahs/
https://good-grief.org/
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In this week's episode, I talk with Helen Bauer, host of the Heart of Hospice podcast. This is part 2 of a two-part interview. Over the years, she's observed a profound inward shift in patients as they approach death, noticing changes in their communication and socialization long before their bodies begin to shut down.
In describing the dying process, she emphasizes the profound stillness she's witnessed at the moment of death, reflecting on the sacredness and emptiness of the physical body. While acknowledging the difficulty in articulating the sensation, she mentions a sense of missing energy.
She reflects on various beliefs about the afterlife, remaining open-minded to diverse perspectives. Having learned from her experiences in hospice, she now values the importance of supporting individuals' beliefs without imposing her own. She emphasizes the significance of meeting people where they are, respecting their beliefs, and providing support tailored to their needs.
She challenges the notion of a universal definition of a "good death," emphasizing the individuality of the dying process. For her, dying is deeply personal, and preferences for the dying process vary widely among individuals. She advocates for honoring each person's wishes and beliefs, rejecting the idea of a one-size-fits-all approach to death.
My episode with Helen Bauer on the Heart of Hospice Podcast
https://www.theheartofhospice.com/podcast/episode/23f1c2af/death-doulas-are-expert-guides-at-end-of-life
To connect with Helen, reach out via email at helen@theheartofhospice.com or visit https://www.theheartofhospice.com/.
The Heart of Hospice Podcast
Hospice Navigation Services
The Heart of Hospice on IG
The Heart of Hospice on FaceBook
@TheHeartHospice on Twitter
The Heart of Hospice on LinkedIn
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In this week's episode, I talk with Helen Bower, host of the Heart of Hospice podcast. This is part 1 of a two-part interview. The following is a link to my guest episode of The Heart of Hospice Podcast. https://www.theheartofhospice.com/podcast/episode/23f1c2af/death-doulas-are-expert-guides-at-end-of-life As a nurse with 34 years of practice, Helen introduces her unique bond with Sonny, a 74-pound golden doodle, with whom she volunteers in hospice, offering solace to patients and families.
Helen embarked on her hospice journey unexpectedly after transitioning from being a stay-at-home mom. Her transformative experience on her first day in hospice care solidified her commitment to this field. She vividly recounts a poignant moment when she witnessed an LVN providing exceptional care and support to a dying patient and their family, challenging nursing stereotypes and emphasizing the importance of every role in hospice care.
**Reflecting on her observations, Helen discusses the subtle changes she's witnessed in patients as they approach the end of life, emphasizing the shifts in communication and consciousness before the body begins its final shutdown. She shares touching anecdotes of patients experiencing visions and connecting with loved ones before passing.
In a world where death has become medicalized and distant, Helen's insights offer a refreshing perspective, encouraging a deeper understanding of the dying process.**
To connect with Helen, reach out via email at helen@theheartofhospice.com or visit https://www.theheartofhospice.com/.
The Heart of Hospice Podcast
Hospice Navigation Services
The Heart of Hospice on IG
The Heart of Hospice on FaceBook
@TheHeartHospice on Twitter
The Heart of Hospice on LinkedIn
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My guest today is Sue Burns, author of the book A Common Life, A Voice from the Progressive Era where she published her great-great grandmother Mary's diary from the late 19th century Iowa farm life.
We talk about the demographics of Iowa in the late 19th century., Her great great grandmother, Mary, managed to raise six children without losing any, although there might have been unrecorded miscarriages or infant deaths. Sue highlights that Mary's diary, like many others from the time, did not extensively cover topics like pregnancy or childbirth, reflecting a cultural silence around such matters.
Sue discusses Mary's diary entries regarding deaths in the community, which were frequent and treated as a natural part of life. Mary herself experienced grief after her husband's death, which followed a period of illness and medical procedures documented in the diary.
Describing Mary's farm, Sue mentions its size (about 240 acres), the crops grown, and the various buildings on the property, including a windmill, barn, and corn crib. She details Mary's involvement in farm management, including decisions about planting, harvesting, and eventually renting out the land for income.
Sue reflects on Mary's accounts of butchering chickens and a pig, speculating about her involvement in these tasks and the practicalities of farm life. She also discusses the layout of Mary's house, including a main living room with a coal-burning stove and a separate "summer kitchen" building.
She recounts the process of preserving Mary's diary, which was written on fragile paper found in an attic. Sue and her mother collaborated to transcribe and digitize the diary, eventually donating a copy to the Iowa Women's Archive.
Sue emphasizes the importance of preserving family histories like Mary's diary, which offers unique insights into past lives and experiences. She notes the limitations of relying solely on written records and highlights the value of oral history and personal connections in understanding the past.
https://marybriggsacommonlife.blogspot.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Common-Life-Voice-Progressive-Era
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Amy Flanagan has had a diverse career journey that led her to a unique role in medical education. Initially pursuing acting from a young age her passion shifted, leading her to the Uniformed Services University, the U.S. military's medical school. There, she played patients with different illnesses, aiding medical students in honing their diagnostic and communication skills.
Her enthusiasm for teaching through experience propelled her to become the director of the facility, a role she cherished until 2015 when she retired due to a diagnosis of narcolepsy. She continues to contribute as a part-time consultant, specializing in helping doctors improve their communication skills, especially in delivering challenging news to patients.
Amy highlights the need for enhanced communication training in medical education, noting that while it's present, it often gets overshadowed by other curriculum demands. She emphasizes the importance of doctors learning to convey compassion and empathy effectively, particularly in delivering distressing diagnoses or news.
Amy talks about the human aspect of healthcare professionals and the significance of providing support and guidance to navigate difficult conversations with patients. She shares anecdotes illustrating the impact of effective communication and the challenges inherent in delivering bad news. In her current role, Amy offers individualized training and support to improve communication skills.
Drawing from personal experiences, including the loss of her sister to a rare illness, Amy emphasizes the unpredictability of life's challenges and the importance of accepting and preparing for difficult circumstances. She emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in healthcare, acknowledging the emotional toll on both patients and providers.
Amy's commitment to improving communication in medicine reflects a broader societal need for compassionate and empathetic care.
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2104812/14515794 My episode on her podcast The Savvy Communicator.
@savvycommunicator on all social media
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My guest in this episode is Chaplain Hank Dunn. Hank is an ordained healthcare chaplain, bestselling author, and speaker who, for more than 30 years, has been helping patients and their families as they struggle with end-of-life decisions. In this episode emphasizes the importance of understanding these treatments as they may not always align with what's best at the end of life.
His experience as a nursing home chaplain led to his involvement in ethical committees, especially after Virginia passed a Natural Death Act, granting patients the right to refuse treatment and have advanced directives.
He began educating families about treatment options, which led to the creation of a booklet. Despite initial reluctance from the ethics committee, research on CPR outcomes prompted the production of "Hard Choices for Loving People," addressing the complexities of end-of-life decisions.
He emphasizes that end-of-life decisions are not solely medical but also emotional and spiritual, requiring individuals to let go and accept the inevitability of death. He stresses the importance of palliative care, which focuses on comfort and symptom alleviation at any stage of illness.
Feeding tubes, hospitalization, and transitioning to hospice are major decisions discussed in his book. He addresses misconceptions about hospice, illustrating its role in prioritizing comfort over futile treatments. Orders such as "do not hospitalize" offer patients and families more control and thoughtful consideration in their care decisions.
www.hankdunn.com
https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Choices-Loving-People-Palliative
https://www.amazon.com/Light-Shadows-Meditations-Life-Threatening-Illness
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Following the decision, I prioritized my aunt's comfort as we prepared to remove her oxygen support. The nurse and I made her as comfortable as possible, opting for comfort care with a touch of morphine to ease her pain.
Reflecting on the day, I found solace in the serenity of the room. With all distractions muted, I held her hand, conveying love and reassurance, even reading aloud from "A Wrinkle in Time.”Despite initial hesitation, the book's themes of fear and acceptance resonated, offering a parallel to our shared journey. Reading aloud connected us, grounding me in the moment.
As her breath stilled, I comforted her, echoing the words of my grandmother. Watching her peaceful transition, I reflected on life's transient nature, finding solace in the beauty of her final moments. Reflecting on her life, I found comfort in knowing I was there for her. Despite the sadness, I was so happy to be with her for her final moments.
Looking back, I realize now that I should have asked earlier for palliative care involvement, recognizing the value of open communication and advocacy in ensuring a peaceful transition.
Having navigated my aunt's journey, I emphasize the significance of candid conversations about end-of-life wishes, underscoring the importance of support and preparation.
In the days after, I confronted layered emotions, finding solace in shared memories and the opportunity to honor loved ones' legacies. Reflecting on our time together, I cherish the memories and the enduring impact of her smile, finding comfort in the shared moments that define our bond.
Grief is a complex journey, yet amid the pain, I find solace in the shared memories and the enduring connections that transcend life's final moments.
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/14343949 Episode with Barbara Karnes that I referenced in this episode.
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In the latest episode, I share a personal experience of losing my aunt after her two-week stay in the ICU.
Despite being familiar with medical procedures from my volunteer work, seeing a loved one in that setting was different. I remember walking into the ICU and hardly recognizing her.
During her last days, the hospital ensured her comfort, although it was tough seeing her struggle. I had discussions with the palliative care team and understood the gravity of her condition.
Reflecting on this experience, I realize how knowledge and preparation eased the process for both my aunt and me. Being informed empowered me to navigate difficult decisions, even though they weren't mine to make, I was able to advocate to have her wishes followed.
As her condition deteriorated, we allowed nature to take its course. It's a reminder of the importance of palliative care and having these conversations at any stage of illness.
Ultimately, we liberated her from the medical interventions that sustained her life. It's a term I learned from my mentor, Ali, which reframes the act of letting go as setting the person free.
This experience has taught me the significance of being present during the end of life, embracing the discomfort, and finding solace in the knowledge that we did our best for our loved ones.
Next week I will finish up the story about my experience.
The episode of Seeing Death Clearly with my mentor Alison Kepple https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/13062233
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Marie Scott, the Creator and Founder of Happy and Healthy After Widowhood boasts an impressive resume as a best-selling author of three published books, with two more in the pipeline. She's also recognized internationally as a speaker and holds certifications as a Health and Grief Coach.
Following the loss of Dave, her husband of three decades, and her mother in the same year, Marie pursued education, laying the groundwork for her life-changing program: the 7 Steps to Healing After Loss. This roadmap offers guidance to widows and widowers, aiming to help them lead fulfilling lives filled with wellness, laughter, and the possibility of love once again.
Dave's battle with esophageal cancer was a poignant chapter, defined by his choice to prioritize quality of life over aggressive treatment. Through functional medicine, Marie addressed her own health issues, underscoring the transformative power of dietary choices.
Amidst the dual loss of her husband and mother to Alzheimer's, Marie found solace in practices like journaling and meditation. These experiences birthed the seven steps to healing, advocating for nurturing relationships and discovering new avenues of purpose.
Now embracing life with Jeff, Marie finds joy in shared interests like hunting, and savoring each moment together. Her journey stands as a testament to resilience, offering hope, gratitude, and encouragement to those navigating life's challenges after loss.
Website
https://www.mariescottwellness.com/
My Top 10 Grief-Busting Tips
https://www.mariescottwellness.com/media
Happy & Healthy after Widowhood / Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/happyandhealthywidow/
https://www.instagram.com/mariescottwellness /
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariescottwellness/
Contact
https://www.mariescottwellness.com/contact
The book is referenced in the podcast episode. Being Mortal by Atul Gawande
https://atulgawande.com/book/being-mortal/
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Meloney, a first-generation BVI islander from Tortola in the Caribbean, shares her unique cultural background, heavily influenced by her Jamaican roots. She highlights the diverse religious and cultural landscape of Jamaica, including the presence of various ethnicities and religions. Despite being predominantly Christian, Jamaican culture is a fusion of different beliefs and practices.
She delves into the intersection of Christianity and African spirituality in her upbringing, emphasizing the blend of Christian teachings with African rituals like Obia or Voodoo. Meloney recounts her experiences with death, particularly the tradition of "nine nights" celebrations before funerals, where families gather to honor the deceased with food, music, and storytelling, turning grief into a celebration of life.
Reflecting on encounters with spirits, Meloney shares anecdotes from her life, including sightings of black bats symbolizing departed spirits and eerie experiences in church. She discusses the significance of facing mortality and the fear of unfinished business, drawing from personal struggles and losses in her journey toward mental health advocacy.
Meloney candidly discusses her battle with bipolar disorder and the impact of witnessing classmates' suicides. These experiences prompted her to create a safe space through her blog, "The Between and the Rocks," where she promotes mental health awareness and offers support to others facing similar challenges. Additionally, Meloney is a serial entrepreneur and a devoted mother, cherishing her role as a parent despite past traumas like miscarriages and the loss of her child's father.
In the face of grief and loss, Meloney finds solace in memories and acknowledges the bittersweetness of remembrance. She concludes by emphasizing the importance of embracing life's uncertainties and cherishing every moment, guided by the understanding that while death is inevitable, the way we choose to live is within our control.
Blog: www.dopamineontherocks.com
Facebook.com/dopamineontherocks
Instagram.com/dopamineontherocks
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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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Dr. Kim Harms has encountered numerous challenges throughout her 67 years. She endured the tragic losses of her mother, son, and husband, all to different circumstances. These losses prompted her to delve into the topic of death, exploring how individuals manage it and the impact it has on their lives.
In her reflections, Kim highlights the unexpected nature of grief, especially when it comes to losing a child. She emphasizes the importance of confronting grief head-on and not allowing it to consume one's life. Kim observes societal attitudes toward death, noting a prevalent sense of control and avoidance, particularly in Western culture.
Through her experiences and observations, Kim advocates for embracing life with joy, even in the face of grief. She stresses the significance of cherishing moments with loved ones and fostering connections. Kim shares insights from her journey of healing and encourages others to navigate their grief with resilience.
In her book, Kim explores the concept of legacy, emphasizing the impact of everyday interactions on shaping one's legacy. She delves into discussions about death and dying, challenging common fears and misconceptions. Drawing from diverse perspectives, she encourages open dialogue about the end of life and practical preparations for it.
Kim shares personal anecdotes, including her husband's peaceful passing and her son's impactful funeral, which brought communities together in support. She discusses forgiveness and reconciliation as essential aspects of coping with loss and fostering healing.
Ultimately, Kim's message is one of hope and empowerment, urging individuals to confront their mortality with courage and preparation. Her book serves as a guide for navigating the complexities of grief and preparing for the inevitable, offering practical advice and heartfelt reflections.
https://www.drkimberlyharms.com/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHG23HD5
drkim@pinelakelawfirm.com
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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**Isabel Knight, also known as The Death Designer, operates a unique business focused on end-of-life planning. She employs principles of human-centered design to assist individuals in navigating the complexities of death care. This approach involves co-creating systems and products with users to ensure they meet their needs effectively.
Isabel emphasizes the importance of making death care more human-centered, aiming to alleviate the stress and confusion often associated with the process. She guides people in obtaining death certificates, understanding funeral options, and initiating difficult conversations about end-of-life preferences.**
Isabel acknowledges that her clientele extends beyond those planning for themselves to include caregivers and family members of terminally ill individuals. She observes a cultural reluctance to engage in discussions about death, which she attributes to societal attitudes toward self-worth and aging. Isabel challenges these perceptions, advocating for the celebration of individuals' lives and the recognition of caregiving as a reciprocal act.
In addition to her consultations, Isabel advocates for more sustainable and inclusive practices within the death care industry. She discusses alternative methods of disposition, such as water cremation and natural organic reduction, which offer environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional burial and cremation. Isabel also addresses the need for greater inclusivity in death care, particularly for marginalized communities like the polyamorous and non-monogamous.
Through workshops and collaborative initiatives, Isabel facilitates discussions among diverse groups to identify gaps and biases in existing death care systems. By centering the experiences of vulnerable populations, she aims to create resources that benefit everyone. Isabel emphasizes the collective wisdom of communities in shaping more equitable and compassionate approaches to death care.
https://www.open-love.org/end-of-life-planning
https://www.thedeathdesigner.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thedeathdesigner/
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Jen Henry was born and raised in Riverside, California, where she still resides. Her mission, which she refers to as lifestyle recovery, stems from her upbringing as an only child, where everything was handed to her without understanding the value of need or want. Despite having both parents, she felt disconnected and misunderstood, with her emotional intensity often overwhelming those around her.
Tragedy struck early in Jen's life with the loss of numerous family members and friends, leading her to question the purpose of life and indulge in reckless behaviors, including drug use. Despite her intelligence and early academic prowess, she found herself bored and disconnected in school, eventually succumbing to substance abuse by her teenage years.
Jen's descent into addiction led to a cycle of arrests and incarcerations, which she initially saw as a form of salvation but ultimately realized worsened her situation. Despite attempts at rehabilitation through programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, she struggled with codependency and a lack of self-identity, leading to relapses and further turmoil.
Over the past 13 years, Jen has navigated the challenges of choosing life over addiction, grappling with existential questions and shifting her perspective on death. She acknowledges the support of her ancestors and believes in their continued presence, guiding her through life's struggles.
Despite skepticism from others, Jen's beliefs have propelled her to success, including financial stability, entrepreneurial ventures, and recognition as a bestselling author and motivational speaker. She urges others to focus on what they can control in life, rather than dwelling on external factors beyond their influence.
https://www.unleashingresilience.com
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Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Meet Iris Van Nespen, a Belgian emergency room physician turned life coach. She's on a mission to help women, and people in general, reclaim their joy and self-acceptance. Iris emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's own beauty, believing that it leads to a more fulfilling life and, ultimately, contributes to world peace.
Iris delves into the challenge of judgment, both self-judgment and judging others. Drawing from her experience in the emergency room, she emphasizes the need for compassion, especially for patients. Her self-discovery and awareness journey have led her to a more compassionate approach, influencing those around her to do the same.
Reflecting on the healthcare system, Iris sheds light on the paradox doctors face—being overworked, lacking psychological training, and losing a sense of self. She shares a personal story about ignoring health concerns due to her dedication to work, emphasizing the importance of self-care for healthcare professionals.
Iris passionately advocates for a shift towards understanding the reasons behind people's behaviors rather than passing judgment. She touches on the disconnect from nature and the profound impact it has on mental health. Iris encourages reconnecting with the beauty of the planet and embracing our role as part of nature's cycle.
In a poignant moment, Iris shares her experience harvesting apples in France, underscoring the abundance of beauty in the world that often goes unnoticed. Her message resonates with the essence of being present, appreciating life's moments, and acknowledging our interconnectedness with the planet.
Iris van Nispen's journey, from emergency room physician to life coach, highlights the transformative power of self-awareness and compassion. Her insights provide a roadmap for listeners to reclaim joy, foster understanding, and contribute to a more harmonious world.
https://linktr.ee/reclaimyoursparkle
https://www.facebook.com/irisvannespen
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My guest this week is Deborah Grassman and for 30 years, she served as a hospice nurse practitioner within the Department of Veterans Affairs. While trained as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, her focus shifted towards hospice care, where she unearthed a unique revelation about trauma's transformation at life's end, an aspect not formally identified before.
In her discussions, she shed light on the distinct challenges veterans faced during their end-of-life reflections, often linked to military service, moral injuries, and life reviews.
Veterans exhibited unique needs, and her observations prompted the Hospice Veteran Partnership, later adopted by NHPCO. Her journey accelerated into webinars, films, books, and nationwide training, emphasizing veterans' distinctive end-of-life experiences.
She founded a non-profit, Opus Peace, addressing unexplored aspects of trauma at life's end. Veterans expressed not only PTSD but also a deeper soul injury, feeling lost or disconnected. Recognizing a pattern, she termed it a "soul injury," a wound separating individuals from their authentic selves.
Stoic facades often crumbled at life's end, revealing three impediments: unwarned loss and hurt, unforgiven guilt and shame, and fear of helplessness and loss of control. Recognizing these, her mission became helping people heal their relationship with themselves.
Opus Peace, her non-profit, aimed to propagate the soul injury message, offering tools and concepts. Two books, "Peace at Last" (focused on veterans) and "The Hero Within," focused on healing one's internal hero, could be accessed on their website.
Opus Peace conducted four-day virtual training sessions, providing resources for workshops on soul injury. Online courses, titled "MasterPEACE," covered various topics and holistic tools, making education accessible. Donations were encouraged to support their pioneering work.
https://opuspeace.org/
https://courses.opuspeace.org/
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
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Meet Brenda, a Londoner who, at 59, has dedicated most of her career to the charity sector, specifically working with Friends of the Earth, an environmental lobbying organization. Around four or five years ago, Brenda faced a challenging period at work, compounded by issues with her eye health and the onset of menopause. This stress took a toll on her physical health, leading to a month-long absence from work, during which she struggled to eat and experienced an undiagnosed illness.
Reflecting on this stressful time, Brenda and her husband now believe it was primarily stress-related. This experience served as a wake-up call, prompting Brenda to delve into self-development, counseling, and coaching sessions provided by her workplace. Finding coaching immensely helpful, she decided to retrain as a coach and well-being trainer, specializing in mental health awareness, menopause awareness, and stress management.
Transitioning into her mid-fifties, Brenda embraced a new career path, focusing on one-on-one coaching sessions and workshops that empower individuals to plan for their future and approach menopause positively. She also emphasizes the diversity of experiences during menopause, acknowledging that each person is unique.
Brenda discusses her experiences with grief, having faced the loss of her parents, highlighting the different dynamics of grieving for a mother versus a brother. She emphasizes the importance of dealing with grief in a thoughtful and resilient manner, drawing on the tools she has developed through her own stress management and mental health awareness work.
Having navigated grief personally, Brenda values open conversations about the universal human experience of loss. She recognizes the privilege of having had a strong relationship with her parents and aims to instill gratitude in her own children for the positive experiences they share as a family.
As Brenda approaches her 60th birthday, she reflects on the changing perspectives that come with age. Her newfound sense of purpose and the skills she has acquired allow her to view life with optimism and the belief that doors can open even in later stages. Brenda acknowledges the importance of discussing topics like grief openly and appreciates platforms like podcasts for providing valuable insights into the diverse ways people cope with life's challenges.
https://stresslesscoach.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/thestresslesscoach/
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In the 1970s, Elizabeth Kubler Ross and Dame Cicely Saunders revolutionized our approach to death. While Kubler Ross emphasized the neglect of the dying in America, Saunders proposed a novel philosophy with her Hospice program. The focus shifted from mere medical treatment to a holistic approach of embracing life during the dying process.
Our guest, Barbara Karnes, a registered nurse, embarked on her hospice journey driven by Saunders' vision. Inspired by the idea of creating a space for living, Barbara started volunteering for hospice. The original essence of hospice, existing outside the medical model, has been gradually absorbed, and Barbara sees the emergence of end-of-life doulas as a refreshing return to that independent, compassionate approach.
She envisions a future where end-of-life doulas integrate into the hospice model, providing the crucial gift of time that medical professionals often lack. Barbara emphasizes the importance of educating communities about the distinctive role of doulas, urging them to connect with churches, senior citizen communities, and nursing facilities.
The conversation delves into the societal perception of death as a medical emergency and the reluctance to let go. Barbara advocates for a shift in mindset, facilitated through community education and open dialogue about death. She believes that normalizing death will lead to a more balanced approach to living.
Reflecting on historical shifts in how death is handled, Barbara notes a cyclical pattern. From deaths at home to hospital settings and now a return to a preference for dying at home, education plays a crucial role in shaping societal attitudes. She encourages parents to discuss death openly with their children, contributing to a more informed and accepting future.
Barbara's philosophy underscores life as a continual learning process, emphasizing the importance of expressing love regularly. Drawing parallels between life's tightrope walk and our attempts to balance experiences, she stresses the significance of never leaving words unspoken. In the realm of end-of-life care, expressing love becomes a profound and essential practice, echoing the fundamental truth that life is, indeed, a school of learning.
https://bkbooks.com/ for all of Barbara's books and resources
https://www.instagram.com/barbarakarnesrn/
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My guests today are Kathleen McGee, Elder Care Coordinator and Director of Care Coordination at Rothkoff Law Group and Chelsea Duckers, one of the care coordinators at Rothkoff Law Group.
In an ideal world, we'd all proactively plan for future challenges, especially as our needs change with age. Reality often sees us facing issues reactively. Rothkoff clients range from those in good health to those in crisis, spanning the entire spectrum. From recognizing fall risks and home modifications for the healthy and independent, to navigating hospital stays and acute healthcare changes for those in crisis, our care coordination steps in at every stage.
Since the pandemic, they have noticed a positive shift. More people are coming in earlier, expressing a desire to plan ahead rather than waiting for a crisis. The uncertainty and fear during the pandemic have normalized conversations around death, prompting earlier considerations for end-of-life planning.
The pandemic served as a stark reminder that unexpected health challenges can happen at any age. While discussing death remains a societal taboo, the pandemic forced us to confront the idea, challenging us to be a part of our own conversations and make our wishes known. It emphasized the importance of early planning to avoid emotional decision-making during crises.
There is a cultural discomfort with openly discussing death, a discomfort that Rothkoff Law Group aims to alleviate through education around death. Kathleen and Chelsea encourage families to select agents confidently and have conversations with loved ones to avoid the shock of discovering unspoken wishes during times of crisis.
While we understand the societal aversion to discussing death, embracing these conversations can lead to a healthier relationship with the idea of mortality. Creating a dialogue around death can have a profound impact on living more present and fulfilling lives. It's an ongoing journey towards breaking the stigma and embracing the inevitability of death with grace and preparedness.
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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In this episode, my guest is Narinder Bazen, founder of the Nine Keys Death Midwifery Apprenticeship.
In her twenties as a Kundalini yoga and meditation teacher, Narinder found herself officiating weddings, blessing babies, and attending deaths within her community. Embracing her mystic roots, she began offering death care, grief care, and trauma care.
Our discussion evolves into the challenges of death work in a society that often views it as women's work, carried out freely without adequate support or compensation.
We talk about the current state of holistic death care and Narinder raises concerns about their sustainability, noting a lack of real support and financial viability. There is a need for a fundamental shift in the narrative around death work.
Narinder advocates for acknowledging the financial realities, addressing systemic pressures, and ensuring that death workers can find sustainability in their vital roles emphasizing the urgency to reevaluate and rework the systems for a more effective and sustainable future.
https://www.narinderbazen.com/
https://www.instagram.com/narinder.bazen.death.life
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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In this end-of-2023 episode, my husband Stephen Wilson takes on the role of interviewer, leading a conversation where we explore our intertwined paths and how they've led us to appreciate life's impermanence. Drawing parallels with our careers in food service, we find beauty in life's temporary nature.
The conversation turns personal as we discuss our polyamorous lifestyle and the complexities of navigating aging and end-of-life discussions with multiple partners, prompting introspection on relationships and priorities.
I ask Stephen questions about life, death, and the impact of our discussions on his perspective. The dialogue delves into the intricacies of relationships and the uncharted territory of discussing end-of-life matters with partners.
I am taking a break for the rest of December 2023, I'll return with a new episode on January 7th, 2024.
Don't miss the upcoming announcements for 2024 offerings by signing up for my newsletter. The link is in the show notes, where you can also grab a copy of my free workbook Living a Better Life.
If you are looking for a small business to support this holiday season, you can subscribe to the paid subscription feature or make a one-time donation to me using Venmo.
I hope everyone has a safe holiday season and I will be back in 2024!
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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Patricia Ayers is the Director of Clinical Services at Coras Wellness & Behavioral Health and she spent several years working for hospice and home care agencies. Eventually, she found herself teaching hospice at Stockton University for nine years, a role that she thoroughly enjoyed.
In this episode we talk about how people misunderstand hospice, thinking it's a place to go rather than a program that comes to you wherever you are. Learning about hospice sparked her interest because it seemed like a program everyone should know about. She taught it as a general studies course, attracting students from nursing, physical therapy, mental health, psychology, and social work backgrounds. Over the years, the class gained popularity, and many students found it beneficial, particularly nursing students who faced a significant hospice component in their certifications.
A recurring frustration in her work was witnessing clients sent home on hospice without a clear understanding of what they were signing up for. This lack of communication often led to tense situations when the hospice team explained the program, and families were caught off guard. Sometimes, clients were discharged too late, almost actively dying, causing confusion and distress for families.
One crucial point often overlooked is the relationship between pain and survival. Pain can keep individuals alive due to anxiety, and providing pain control allows them to relax, offering a chance for a peaceful passing. Unfortunately, families often misunderstood this, thinking the team had hastened the process.
The lack of clear communication about hospice and the reluctance to address death in our society bothered her. Patients and families were denied the opportunity to have important conversations and prepare for the inevitable. She designed an exercise for her students to simulate doctor-patient conversations about terminal diagnoses, highlighting the difficulty on both sides.
Patients often had questions about their treatment, side effects, and how it would affect their quality of life. However, discussions about timeframes and how to talk to their families remained challenging for both doctors and patients. Our society tends to avoid discussions about death, preferring to place individuals in nursing homes or hospitals rather than allowing the natural process to unfold at home.
This episode emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and accepting the natural progression of life.
https://coraswellness.org/
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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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In today's episode my guest is Nancy Alterman, a therapist with a focus on helping adults navigate relationship challenges. Nancy believes that nothing matters more in life than our relationships. She brings a wealth of experience, with over 35 years dedicated to families facing medical crisis.
Nancy emphasizes the immediate impact of clear objectives in the improvement process. Her expertise lies in strengthening communication and coping skills, guiding clients to address unresolved relationship struggles amid life's overwhelming difficulties.
One key aspect of Nancy's journey stems from a profound loss at the age of 12 when her mother passed away. This experience set her on a path to explore grief-related careers. Despite the challenges of early isolation, she found purpose in supporting others through geriatric care management and addressing various life changes beyond death.
A recurring theme in Nancy's work revolves around helping individuals live life to the fullest without regrets. Drawing from her own experiences, she encourages families to establish a support system to avoid isolation and remorse. Her unique perspective, shaped by personal loss and resilience, provides invaluable insights into aging, caregiving, and end-of-life issues, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's and dementia care.
Incorporating a spiritual practice into her life has been transformative for Nancy. She believes in the energy of creation, finding comfort and guidance in accepting outcomes beyond her control. This perspective allows her to be present for those who are suffering, a significant contribution rooted in her memories of isolation during grief.
As a therapist, Nancy's skills in suspending personal agendas, cultivating curiosity, and asking insightful questions shine through. She highlights the importance of not being overly eager or invested in a specific agenda during the therapeutic process, allowing individuals to discover their own wisdom.
Join us as Nancy shares her wisdom on topics such as aging, emotional health, well-being, and self-care. Learn how her unique journey has shaped a compassionate approach to helping others navigate the challenges of aging, death, and caregiving, ensuring they can face these realities with greater understanding and without regrets.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/nancy-m-alterman-lcsw-cherry-hill-nj/220502
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
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Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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In this podcast episode, we talk with Deb Driscoll, an author, spiritual teacher, and speaker, whose life has been a testament to the transformative power hidden within profound loss. Deb's story is about the heart-breaking tragedy of losing her 10-year-old son, Sage, a pivotal moment that shattered her world and set her on an unexpected path of healing and growth.
As Deb shares her personal evolution through grief, the importance of embracing loss not merely as a source of pain but as a profound opportunity for personal growth. She found solace in the idea that the healing journey is not a fixed destination but a continuous process.
Deb's work, rooted in Heart Repair and the transformation from big life loss to what she terms as "BIG LIFE MAGIC," highlights the intricate connection between significant loss and profound personal growth. She believes that our big life losses, whether through death, divorce, diagnosis, or unrealized dreams, offer a pathway to discovering the magic within ourselves.
The podcast also delves into the importance of preparing for grief and loss in advance, acknowledging the difficulty of conversations about life, death, grief, love, and joy. Deb shares a story about her sister's end-of-life journey, emphasizing the crucial role of open dialogues in building resilience when facing significant life losses.
Debra Driscoll's journey serves as a beacon for those navigating the complexities of grief, illustrating how turning loss into Big Life Magic is not only possible but a profound opportunity for self-discovery and transformation. Through intuitive guidance, spiritual practice, and storytelling, Deb invites others to tap into their own magic, believing that in doing so, they can become not only the best healers for themselves but also for others. Ultimately, her message resonates with the idea that every loss or challenge offers a lesson, an opportunity to strengthen our energetic hearts, and invite more love and magic into our lives.
Website - https://biglifemagic.com/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/BigLifeMagic
IG @biglifemagic
Book: A Series of Surrenders - https://bit.ly/ASeriesofSurrenderstheBook
A FREE resource for listeners. Heart TRepair Meditation & Journal Prompts - https://bit.ly/HeartRepairHelp
Big Life Magic Membership
https://biglifemagic.com/magic-membership/
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
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In this episode, I have a conversation with Eryn Johnson, a Philadelphia-based writer and facilitator, about her journey from a religious upbringing to her current spiritual beliefs. Eryn, whose work has graced publications like Well + Good, Insider, and Tilted House Magazine, brings a unique perspective to her exploration of queerness, mental health, spirituality, and healing.
Eryn's background is rooted in a Southern Baptist Christian environment, where faith played a central role in her life. She shares how growing up with a strong belief in God and a family whose core values were deeply entwined with Christianity profoundly shaped her worldview.
We explore how religious beliefs can be a source of both comfort and anxiety. Eryn shares her journey of transitioning away from her faith, which began during high school she discovered new spiritual practices, such as yoga and tarot, embarking on a path of spiritual exploration.
One key message that emerges from our conversation is the importance of fluidity and openness in Eryn's evolving spirituality. Her current beliefs encompass the idea that individuals return to the universe or energy after death, with potential connections to the energy of ancestors. She believes in souls embarking on a journey, processing, and reflecting on life.
Our discussion sheds light on the complexity of religious upbringing, the transformative power of personal exploration, and the significance of finding one's unique spiritual path. It encourages listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the meaning they choose to create in their lives.
Eryn also offers facilitation services, specializing in supporting individuals, especially those from religious backgrounds they've shed, in embracing their emotions, connecting with their bodies, and fully embodying themselves. Eryn's training in trauma-informed care, breathwork, yoga, meditation, and energy work equips them to provide valuable support.
For those interested in Eryn's work, they have developed a "religious trauma workbook" available on their website, designed to help individuals reclaim their autonomy from dogmatic religious experiences. Eryn is also available for facilitating breathwork in retreats and groups.
If you'd like to contact Eryn or learn more about their services, you can contact them at erynjohnsonfreelance@gmail.com.
https://joynotes.substack.com/
https://erynjohnson.com/
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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Jeanette Sealy, a dedicated Yoga Therapist, loving mother of four, and a veteran of the United States Air Force, is on a mission to bring healing and transformation to people's lives. Her profound personal journey through complex trauma has given her a deep understanding of the healing potential of Yoga and Ayurveda.
Since 1993, she has been unwaveringly committed to exploring the science of Yoga. As an Internationally Certified Yoga Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist, and Transformational Retreat Leader, she is the founder of Metta Bhav, a School Of Yoga Therapy, Ayurveda, and Thai Massage. Jeanette is also a death doula and Ayurvedic postpartum doula, using her wisdom and compassion to guide others on their path to healing and an extraordinary quality of life.
After becoming a hospice volunteer, Jeanette quickly fell in love with the sense of purpose, the people she met, and the profound impact she could have on their lives. It wasn't just a job for her; it was a profound calling. For 26 years, she dedicated herself to working in various healthcare settings, including nursing homes, hospice, and long-term care.
Already a dedicated yoga practitioner, she introduced the healing power of yoga to the populations she served. In 2003, she embarked on a transformative journey to become a certified yoga therapist, aiming to learn techniques for bringing yoga to individuals, even those on their deathbeds. In Jeanette's perspective, yoga is not limited to modern postural practices but is a holistic system of teachings and practices designed to help individuals find inner peace and self-discovery.
This journey led her to transition away from the corporate healthcare world and focus on working one-on-one with individuals in grief support. Today, she wears multiple hats as a yoga therapist, Ayurvedic doula, and massage therapist. Yet, her overarching mission remains constant across her many roles: helping people tap into their inner resources and discover their true selves, thereby empowering them to make more informed choices in life.
https://www.jeanettesealy.com
https://www.instagram.com/jeanettesealy
https://www.facebook.com/jeanettesealyyoga
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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Our guest, Sam Ruth, originally from Michigan but now in Colorado, shares her journey as a psychologist, author, and speaker.
She met her husband in Michigan at 24, and they reconnected later but tragically, he passed away in Colorado at 46, just four years later.
Sam turned to nature and the beauty of Colorado to heal. Sam's deep connection to spirituality emerged following her loss.
In her work as a psychologist, Sam encounters many individuals dealing with practical and financial aspects following a loss. She encourages people of all ages to consider these matters, even if it's not a pleasant topic to dwell on. Her husband's logical approach to these matters and planning ahead brought her some comfort when she needed it most.
Sam, a naturally restless thinker, initially struggled with meditation and yoga. Unable to even read, she turned to audiobooks while walking her dog, hoping to find some relief.
She ventured into meditation, vision boards, and other unconventional methods. Over time, she transformed as a person, incorporating meditation as a non-negotiable routine in her life.
Recognizing the need for support after her loss, Sam created a community called "Griefhab." Drawing on her background as a psychologist, she designed this community to provide the support she couldn't find elsewhere.
It offers a safe space for healing, where individuals are encouraged to heal in their unique ways. Sam also shares resources and support through her website, SamanthaRuth.com, where you can find her books, tools, and tips.
samantharuth.com
https://www.facebook.com/groups/griefhab7/
https://samantharuth.com/team-ruthless
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-be-ruthless-show/id1554585454
https://mailchi.mp/744821c8f40c/healing-together-through-the-holidays?fbclid=IwAR3KTxKiLb0Qo30FLqviSze22eZtXO-CtjinnSkHqP7nX1SXO_7LrPJc9Eo
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This week, we're deviating from our usual guest interviews due to a hectic week. Sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges our way.
One such challenge happened to me recently when my minivan was struck by a drunk driver. It could have been much worse, but we're grateful that no one was hurt. This incident reaffirmed my deep appreciation for life and the importance of living in the moment.
I've always emphasized the significance of mindfulness and death awareness, and this experience underscored their value. By practicing mindfulness and contemplating death, we can better grasp what truly matters in life.
The accident and not getting an episode done made me realize that getting stressed over minor inconveniences doesn't serve us.
In the past, I might have been anxious about not meeting expectations, but I've learned that it's okay to let go of that stress and focus on what's genuinely important.
I will also be taking a break in December, as both my children have birthdays and we celebrate Christmas. It's a time for reflection and spending time with loved ones. But don't worry; we'll be back in January with season 2 and some exciting guests.
Thank you for your support and understanding, and remember to cherish every moment.
You can subscribe to our podcast and support us financially to keep it ad-free. Your contribution, whether big or small, is greatly appreciated. You'll find the subscription link in the show notes, and you can make a one-time contribution via Venmo.
Thank you for being part of our "Seeing Death Clearly" community, and we can't wait to reconnect with you in the upcoming episodes.
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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In this podcast episode, I'm joined by Tony Lynch, the founder of The Global Grief Network, a worldwide community of grief workers, mental health practitioners, and coaches. This community is all about raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and providing support to each other.
During our conversation, Tony shares his personal journey of spiritual growth, self-acceptance, and self-discovery, all while facing the challenges of grief. We delve into the importance of self-reflection, understanding the origins of our habits, and the crucial process of addressing trauma and mental health issues.
Tony embraces diverse backgrounds and beliefs, promoting acceptance. He emphasizes the value of learning from others, regardless of their beliefs, and suggests that incorporating positive aspects from various belief systems can make us more enlightened individuals.
Tony advocates for everyone to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Over time, we accumulate habits from our surroundings that may no longer serve us as we grow older. Digging deep within ourselves helps us understand why certain habits no longer work and allows for personal growth.
Addressing trauma, PTSD, and mental health issues is essential, and it's never too late to heal and grow. This process has provided Tony with a better understanding of his past, present, and future.
Tony's work with men, helping them break free from mental struggles and witnessing their healing process, brings him immense joy. This work fills his heart with gratitude, making him both personally and altruistically fulfilled.
https://www.facebook.com/griefsupportformen
Fb- The Global Grief Network https://www.facebook.com/groups/695890305913338
Ig- https://www.instagram.com/mensgriefsupport/
Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-lynch-8035b6173/
LinkedIn group - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250521/
Podcast host - Grief Let’s Talk About It podcast -YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@griefletstalkaboutit/videos
1 international Amazon best-selling Author - Relentless -Stories of Overcoming Adversity
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Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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My guest this week is Casey Stevens. We had a heartwarming conversation about her incredible journey. High school was a turning point in her life, marked by a profound loss and her parents played a pivotal role in helping her navigate this grief by openly discussing death and grieving.
This experience, along with her volunteer work with people at the end of life, set her on a path to a career in spiritual psychology. Casey helps others break free from unproductive patterns and undergo radical transformations through conscious awakening.
Casey cherishes the memories of her great-grandmothers, who provided a strong presence during her childhood. When a close friend tragically took her own life in high school, Casey's parents supported her through the grief. They created space for her to process her emotions and involved teachers and friends in commemorating the friend's life.
Her mom's deep bond with her grandmother and her subsequent grief taught Casey the importance of openly sharing emotions. Her mother's willingness to talk about her sadness helped Casey process her own feelings.
During her school years, Casey engaged in community service and had a significant encounter with a hospice for people with HIV/AIDS. This experience had a profound impact, influencing her decision to pursue a career in psychology later in life.
She also shared a unique connection with an individual at Bailey-Boushay House in Seattle during her high school years. Despite his preference for solitude, they formed an extraordinary bond and had meaningful conversations. This experience helped Casey appreciate the value of human connection and the positive impact of giving one's time to help others.
You can find Casey by following the links below.
https://www.instagram.com/shrinkbigger/
https://linktr.ee/shrinkbigger
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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Nadia grew up in a family of spiritual seekers who openly discussed death. They believed that death wasn't an end but a transition to another dimension. Her mother's peaceful passing in October 2020 was a result of their many conversations about death, making it less frightening.
Her goal today is to stress the importance of open conversations about death to make it less scary and traumatic. Often, society disconnects from discussions about death, grieving, and building meaningful relationships while we're alive.
Her mother and she reconciled in her last ten years, despite past struggles. Her mother's sudden decline was a shock. In just six weeks, she went from a robust state to passing due to leukemia. It was peaceful; they opted out of chemo as per her wishes. They rushed to her side, and she knew she had to be there for her. Witnessing her departure was profound. Her mother's passing seemed like her soul's choice, and it happened swiftly. She waited for them, and as they entered her room, her eyes opened.
Everyone experiences death differently; there's no right or wrong. The message of the podcast is vital – discussing death and preparing for it through conversations can prevent trauma. Her mother's transition was an enlightening experience, contrary to societal norms. She left with peace, love, and a sense of rapture.
Her father's death contrasted sharply. His life took a solitary path due to his self-fulfilling prophecy. He died alone, isolated from loved ones. Forgiveness work allowed them to heal, but his transition was a relief.
This journey of acceptance and understanding brings her peace. Death is a unique experience for everyone, and openness can help us navigate it with grace.
Nadia's podcast episode with Jill #11 Death’s Sacred Medicine with Jill McClennen | Soul Health Mentor
Contact Nadia through her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/nadiaskrauss
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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In this episode, I spoke with Bryan Adler, an elder care attorney from the Rothkoff Law Group. My curiosity about elder care law grew when I began working as a death doula, and I was eager to learn more from Bryan.
Bryan shared that their firm, the Rothkoff Law Group, is committed to educating the public about issues related to the elderly and the professionals who assist them. When someone reaches out to them, whether it's a family member or the individual themselves, they often have concerns about a loved one's health or aging-related conditions. They may receive a diagnosis and be unsure of how to proceed. In such cases, the firm's team conducts a phone consultation to understand the situation and determine how they can be of assistance.
During these consultations, Bryan and his team delve into the clinical aspects of the situation, including diagnoses and the family's worries. They work on creating a comprehensive plan focused on ensuring the best possible care while also addressing financial concerns. Bryan emphasized that their team consists of non-lawyer professionals, including social workers who develop care plans, occupational therapists who handle home safety modifications, physical therapists who assess balance and mobility, death doulas to help with end of life planning, and a public benefits team that explores funding options through Medicare, Medicaid, and other government programs.
Their approach is team-based, and clients often stay with them for years, building strong relationships that extend beyond crisis management.
We also discussed the Elder Care Symposium, an educational event hosted by the Rothkoff Law Group. This year's theme is "Death is Part of Life," reflecting the crucial role of addressing end-of-life issues. The symposium, taking place on October 19th, offers both in-person and live streaming options for attendees. You can find more information in the show notes at https://rothkoffsymposium.com/.
The symposium, which began in 2018, aims to bring national discussions on elder care to the forefront and promote innovation in the field. Past topics have included Alzheimer's drugs and unique approaches to dementia care. This year, the focus is on death and dying, emphasizing that acknowledging and embracing this aspect of life is vital for elder care advocates. The hybrid format of the event allows for networking and flexibility in attending sessions, making it a valuable resource for professionals in the field.
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Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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In this episode, we're joined by Ariell Kirylo, a dear friend of mine for over two decades. She recently reached out to me after a year of supporting her friend Stephen, who tragically passed away at the age of 51 due to a sudden brain tumor. Ariell wanted to share her experiences and insights from this journey.
Many of us find it challenging to navigate end-of-life situations because it's often kept distant, hidden away in sterile hospital environments. Ariell's story is an inspiring example of how to show up and provide meaningful support to someone in their final moments.
Ariell noticed that various people around Stephen played different roles in his journey. Some were the "doers," meticulously organizing everything and tying up loose ends. Others were the "fighters," never giving up hope for a miraculous recovery. However, Ariell chose a different path. She created a safe space for Stephen to explore his thoughts and feelings, allowing him to travel in his mind and spirit to the other side while still on Earth.
This approach involved surrendering to the inevitability of death, something our modern society struggles with.
Ariell's story reveals her own journey towards surrendering, which began with a near-death experience when a tree fell on her car in September 2021.
Her perspective shifted as she contemplated death from both sides, realizing that death could be seen as a transition, a birth into another form of consciousness or an afterlife. This reframing of death can help us change our conversation and perception of it.
I asked Ariell how this experience transformed her. She shared that it deepened her understanding of intimacy and the acceptance of her own eventual passing. Watching Stephen's graceful departure, despite his moments of frustration and fear, showed her the beauty in facing death with grace and mastery.
Ariell encouraged us all to be present and unafraid when witnessing death, as there are valuable lessons to be learned. By embracing these lessons, we can wear them like pearls and prepare ourselves for our own inevitable journey.
Ariell invites us to view death as a beautiful and spiritual transition, guided by our faith and inner beliefs. This shift in perspective can help us confront the concept of death with a sense of wonder and acceptance.
You can see some of Stephen’s teachings from the end of his life in his Instagram https://instagram.com/fuzzymuzzy33?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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In this episode, my guest is John White.
John had two near-death experiences that completely changed his life and his ideas about the spirit world, he shares some of his insights with us in this episode.
During his first NDE, he had a car accident and the only thing he can recall is the moment of impact, it felt like he was propelled through space inside a balloon, stretching and then snapping back in an instant.
When he finally came to his senses, his wife at the time was yelling at him to get out of the car. He had no idea what had just occurred. He managed to exit the vehicle, and she was on the sidewalk with bleeding knees, being attended to by bystanders. It was a surreal experience, and he felt like he was this tiny being on the outside of the world.
He had never heard of near-death experiences until later after he moved to Florida and was recovering. When he shared his story with someone, they suggested it sounded like a near-death experience. He looked it up, and it indeed mirrored his own encounter.
In past life regressions, he discovered a profound truth. We are eternal beings with countless past lives, interconnected and all part of a greater whole. None of what we perceive as reality is actually real. You, in fact, are the creator of your own existence.
Everyone who enters your life serves a purpose, helping you heal and uncover your own truth, even through what may seem like negative experiences.
The lesson learned is that we are all divine. The divine essence, whether you call it God or Goddess, resides within each of us. It is not external but an intrinsic part of our being. We encompass everything that ever was and will be, having experienced it all.
Remembering this truth empowers you to manifest your desires and dreams.
However, breaking free from the control system designed by a select few who ran this planet is challenging but essential. Once you escape the confines of the matrix and see reality for what it is, your life transforms in unimaginable ways, making it inconceivable to return to the old way of living.
You can reach John by emailing him at johnwhite815@icloud.com.
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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In this episode, my guest is Amy Hensley.
Amy, co-creator of Sips and Wishes, introduces an approach to accessible medical education through relaxed and interactive gatherings held in homes.
Amy's connection with her best friend, Erin, who specialized in teaching nursing students about death and dying, prompted her to recognize the importance of including this topic in medical education.
Unlike her own nursing school experience, Erin's curriculum focused on fostering comfort around death, a crucial aspect of nursing.
Sips and Wishes events embody a relaxed environment where attendees engage in conversations about medical topics. The concept involves enjoying beverages and snacks while delving into interactive presentations.
Amy highlights that individual perspectives on life and death vary, and Sips and Wishes aim is to provide information to help attendees make informed decisions based on their unique views.
The focus is on informed choices, which stem from understanding medical options. By encouraging conversations and understanding, Sips and Wishes empowers individuals to make decisions aligned with their values and aspirations.
Through this innovative platform, Amy strives to bridge the gap between medical knowledge and public awareness, ultimately fostering a more informed society.
You can find out more on their website or Facebook page.
https://www.sipsandwishesparty.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085625110676
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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In this episode, I'm joined by Francesca Zampaglione, who has a unique perspective on death due to her background as a first-generation American with Italian immigrant parents.
She is the host of the "Office Flip Flops" podcast, where she and her guests share advice and insights. Despite the name, it's not about shoes; it's a source of quick inspiration with guests like TEDx speakers and authors, keeping episodes under 20 minutes for an easy, uplifting experience.
In this episode, Francesca shares with us what it was like witnessing the community show up at the time of her parent’s deaths.
The support her family received during their losses was remarkable, especially in today's American culture.
Her father's wish to pass away at home was fulfilled in 2002.
On his last night, surrounded by close relatives and his favorite traditional Italian music, it seemed as if he responded to the familiar tunes even in his coma.
When her mother was in transition in 2015, it was the most beautiful time of her life, it was a very beautiful experience since the family came even from Italy and were all there for her.
These experiences emphasize the value of connections and community during times of loss, leaving a lasting impact.
You can listen to Francesca’s podcast on all major platforms. Connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.
https://open.spotify.com/show/3MmCf1aTageu6WVmujCODv?si=398185d9ab3c4388
https://www.youtube.com/@francescazampaglione
https://www.instagram.com/_francesca_zampaglione/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tofrancesca/
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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In this episode, my guest is Rev. Ogun Holder.
Rev. Ogun Holder is the co-founder of project_SANCTUS - a safe, brave, online space to discover and be our Holiest self, and in so doing, together, create a world of love, justice, and liberation for all.
He is an ordained Unity minister (2011), and an award-winning author, and he holds certifications in spiritual coaching, grief & bereavement counseling, and the Enneagram.
Rev. Ogun is open to working with new clients for spiritual coaching as well as grief counseling.
He is one of the hosts of Pub Theology Live, a weekly podcast on life, culture, faith, meaning, and identity.
He is also the co-host of With Love And Justice For All, a podcast about embodied antiracism, dismantling oppression, fostering liberation, and the special challenges that arise as spiritual seekers.
Reverend Ogun has experienced the challenges of grieving multiple losses over the last eight years, starting with the passing of his wife due to cancer.
I came across Reverend Ogun's article titled "Grief as a Spiritual Practice," which deeply resonated with me.
His wisdom and perspective on the subject compelled me to reach out and invite him to be a guest on the podcast.
Reverend Ogun's belief in embracing grief as a natural process, allowing ourselves to feel and express every emotion as it arises, is a profound and healing approach.
He sees these emotions as leading us to the areas within us that need the most care and healing.
Our conversation also touches on the differences in grieving depending on your race, your ethnicity, your class, and your ability.
You can find Rev. Ogun Holder projectsanctus.com and revogunholder.com
There are also links to all of the books he talked about in the timestamps.
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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In this episode, I have a guest, Kristy Sue Bishop. Kristy Sue has devoted herself to exploring the depths of life’s shadows with identity death and embracing her new identity as the grieving slut and the rebirth witch. Kristy’'s journey began with the death of her ex-husband, which brought about complicated grief and a sense of isolation as she didn't fit into the mold of a traditional widow.
This difficult experience set her on a path of healing by addressing her grief. During that time, she had to grieve on different levels. She mourned the times when he was her partner and best friend. She also grieved the good and bad moments in their marriage.
Many people believe in finding closure by talking to others. They think that by doing so, they'll get the closure they need. Kristy Sue has come to realize that you don't necessarily need external conversations for closure. Often, it's an internal process of understanding and acceptance that brings the closure we seek.
This realization was powerful for her. It allowed her to see where I lacked personal boundaries and where I gave too much to the relationship. Healing on her own made her realize that she couldn't blame him anymore; he was no longer part of the picture. This process brought up deeper aspects of herself, and she went on a journey through her grief, reflecting on why she hadn't addressed these emotions earlier. No one ever tells us it's okay to grieve things in life that we lose. We experience many small losses in life, even if they're positive changes.
Kristy also talks about how she was unexpectedly thrown into a situation where she had to tell her kids about their dad's impending death. This experience, though incredibly difficult, gave her the courage to talk to them about anything. If she could share the hardest news with them, then discussing topics like sex became easier.
Now, she is open to discussing anything with her kids. This unfortunate event made her realize that there's no need to shy away from conversations. Discussing topics like sex, which might seem uncomfortable, became a lot more manageable.
You can find Kristy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/death_priestess/
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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In this episode, I'm joined by Patrick Gigliotti, a hospice care consultant with Compassus Hospice and Palliative Care in New Jersey. We discuss his work and the insights he has gained while working with hospice patients. We also share personal stories, focusing on the importance of being comfortable and open about ourselves without fear of judgment.
One significant topic we explore is the necessity of having conversations with our parents about their end-of-life wishes. Instead of leaving these conversations to strangers or doctors who may not know the whole picture, we should strive to have these important discussions ourselves.
We touch upon the fragmentation of the healthcare system, where specialists often focus solely on specific issues without considering the whole person. This approach can be improved to provide more comprehensive care.
We also talk about living life authentically, embracing our true selves without being dictated by others' expectations. Living inauthentically can be emotionally draining and detrimental to our well-being. While being true to ourselves may lead to some criticism, it's crucial to prioritize our happiness and not live in fear of others' opinions.
Patrick shares a valuable lesson he's learned from his work: life is unpredictable, and we must embrace its fluidity and be adaptable. Focusing on trivial matters and letting them affect us negatively can be wasteful when life is short and uncertain. Instead, we should cherish each day, make the most of opportunities, and appreciate what we have.
This podcast episode with Patrick Gigliotti sheds light on the importance of having end-of-life conversations with loved ones, seeking more comprehensive healthcare, and living authentically without fear of judgment. It teaches us to appreciate life's unpredictability and embrace opportunities, knowing that each day is a precious gift.
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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In this episode, my guest is Emily Cross.
Emily Cross is a multi-talented individual residing in Dorset, England, who has dedicated her career to serving the dying.
In 2017, Emily established her own practice, to provide support to both the dying and their families.
Recently she expanded her doula work to include both in-person and online services at the Steady Waves Center for Contemplation in Abbotsbury, Dorset, a community hub that offers end-of-life resources, education, meditation sessions, and open conversations.
Our conversation in this episode covers Emily’s career path and about the Steady Waves Living Funeral Ceremonies, a transformative and immersive experience designed to provoke deep reflection on mortality and life's priorities.
During this 2 to 3-hour-long ceremony, individuals confront their own mortality through various activities. This includes engaging in a writing exercise, experiencing their own memorial, and participating in a death visualization.
The Living Funeral offers a cathartic journey, helping participants develop a profound sense of mindfulness, acceptance, and appreciation for the fleeting beauty of life. By delving into death meditation, the ceremonies emphasize the significance of living fully in the present moment.
You can reach Emily Cross on Instagram @steady_waves_center
Or through her website www.steadywavescenter.com
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
TikTok
My guest is Jeff Hopper, and we get right into the conversation with this one.
Jeff is a hospice chaplain and he talks with me about his life journey to becoming a chaplain.
He also tells us about his work with patients, along with the valuable lessons he's gained along the way.
While incarcerated, Jeff encountered a Christian Hells Angel biker while, and despite his impending life sentence, he prayed for their meal. This encounter sparked a 30-year journey of self-discovery that led to him becoming a hospice chaplain, or spiritual counselor.
Jeff was a volunteer chaplain where he delivered death notices to inmates, informing them of the passing of their loved ones and their inability to attend the funerals due to their incarceration.
In my current role as a death doula, my focus is on supporting clients or patients, regardless of my personal beliefs in a similar way to Jeff as a hospice chaplain.
Jeff talks about the importance of living with intentionality. By consciously considering our words and actions, we can avoid unnecessary mistakes and ensure our actions align with our true intentions.
Emotions can be misleading, even when they come from a place of love.
Love should not be solely based on what someone does for us or their appearance, but rather an intentional choice.
As Jeff speaks with couples facing loss, he has learned that intentional love is key.
They acknowledge each other's flaws and imperfections, yet they continue to love one another.
This intentional love should extend to everyone, as it is what we truly need.
Jeff’s journey has taught him the importance of serving others, being intentional in love, and finding meaning in the work he does as a chaplain.
You can reach out to Jeff on Facebook
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
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Joining me today is Narayani Gaia, a spiritual guide who helps individuals harness their energy, transform their sensitivity into strengths, and heal the past.
She offers private sessions and group training both locally and remotely.
In our conversation, Narayani will share her personal experience of losing her partner and the valuable insights she gained while navigating the grieving process.
Along her journey, she discovered answers to many questions through various cultures and teachings.
One approach is adopting Buddhist practices. You can engage in personal meditation or simply sit quietly, breathe, and relax to gain a deeper understanding of the world.
During her grieving process, she allowed herself to experience sadness while also incorporating prayer.
Letting go of stories, people, past experiences, or even aspects of our lives requires discipline and self-care.
It is essential to process and move through emotions for emotional and physical well-being.
Failing to address and release emotions can hinder healing.
It may seem paradoxical, but connecting with your higher and lower self is crucial.
This integration work forms the foundation of her practice, where she shares the teachings she has received, experienced, and continue to practice daily through meditation and spiritual work.
You don't need elaborate rituals or experiences like those found in certain initiations or on reservations.
A simple ceremony with an authentic prayer, a candle, a journal, tissues, and a cup of tea can take you on a profound journey.
We all have the ability to connect with the sacred, and when we tap into our authenticity, the universe will guide us.
To contact Narayani, you can visit her website.
Links to her offerings.
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
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**In this podcast episode is Dr. Casey Sanders and we delve into two taboo topics in our culture: sex and death.
It's important to note that our conversation will not go into sexually explicit content. Instead, we aim to promote healthy dialogues among loved ones.
Dr. Casey Sanders, is a 35-year-old chiropractor and podcast host from Fort Worth, Texas.
He is co-host, alongside his wife Kari, of the podcast "Cum With KC".
Through their podcast, Dr. Casey and Kari aim to bridge the gap between monogamous and polyamorous couples, offering insights into the world of sexual exploration and liberation.
Their goal is to create a safe and easy space where conversations can take place, finding common ground and understanding.
In this episode, we talk about initiating age-appropriate conversations early on about sex and death, and how that can establish a foundation of trust and open communication within our families.
Both sex and death are often shrouded in silence and discomfort, primarily because we lack the necessary knowledge and guidance to broach these subjects.
By exploring these seemingly taboo topics, individuals can equip themselves with valuable insights and understanding.
The more we explore these areas, the better prepared we become in dealing with them.
Click the links below to listen to find Dr. Casey Sanders and listen to Cum With KC.**
https://linktr.ee/cwkc
https://www.instagram.com/cumwithkc
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
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In this podcast episode, Alison Kepple is the guest speaker who shares insights into the differences between palliative care and hospice care.
Alison is a Palliative Care Social Worker, End-of-Life Doula, and Psychopomp based in central New Jersey.
She fulfills her sacred duties by providing support to hospitalized individuals and their families through serious illness and injury, normalizing the dying process, and offering end-of-life education to interdisciplinary staff.
In addition to her professional roles, Alison is a wife, mother, and cat owner.
She highlights the role of death doulas as volunteers working with the palliative care team in a hospital setting.
She discusses how palliative care encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs, and involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers.
Listeners interested in incorporating the support of death doulas within a hospital setting will find this episode valuable, she shares tips on establishing a death doula volunteer program.
Alison also discusses her personal experience with loss with the death of her father at a young age and how it impacted her and her family.
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
TikTok
In this episode, I had the pleasure of talking with my friend Teri Brown, a talented singer/songwriter, about her journey of personal growth and transformation.
Teri opened up about the evolution of her spiritual beliefs and how they have reshaped her perspective on death and dying.
She also shared her experiences with psychedelics and the profound impact they have had on managing anxiety and depression.
Teri emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and body positivity as integral parts of her transformation.
Society often imposes unrealistic standards, and it's easy to fall into a cycle of self-judgment and negativity.
Teri realized that true transformation starts with self-love and acceptance.
Embracing her body and celebrating its uniqueness has been a transformative experience that has allowed her to find happiness and fulfillment.
Her story serves as a powerful reminder that true growth begins with self-love and embracing our individuality.
You can find Teri on Instagram @teribrownmusic and her website https://teribrownmusic.com/
To hear her band, check them out on Instagram @3rowbackmusic
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
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Kat Zammuto, a woman of mixed French and Brazilian heritage, has spent the majority of her life residing in the United States.
Growing up in California, she was exposed to the world of entertainment and modeling from a very young age, thanks to her father's occupation as a TV and video producer.
Kat's artistic inclinations extend across various creative domains.
Equipped with experience in modeling, acting, and digital media, as well as a degree in Business and Communications, she has managed to diversify her pursuits and achieve success in a wide range of projects.
Kat went through the profound loss of both her mother and her husband within a short period of time.
She shares her experiences of grief, navigating the dating scene in her 40s, and embarking on a journey of self-discovery through the creation of her own podcast "Kat on the Loose - Sex, Dating & Relationships."
A lot of what Kat shares is how the death of her loved ones helped her to appreciate life so much more, letting go of stress and anxiety in exchange for gratitude and living life fully.
You can find out more about Kat and listen to her podcast in the links below.
https://bio.site/katzammuto
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kat-on-the-loose-sex-dating-relationships/id1526070318
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
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In this episode, my guest is Suzanne Anderson, she has worked as a psychologist, author, coach, leadership consultant, and transformational teacher for over 30 years.
We talk about her new book “You Make Your Path By Walking” which she wrote after her beloved husband took his life, and how she used trauma and loss in a way that was profoundly transformational.
Part memoir, part guidebook, “You Make Your Path By Walking” accompanies readers on their own journeys through the barren landscape of trauma and grief, offering comfort, guidance, and inspiration to make meaning out of loss.
Whether you are going through a personal dark night or struggling with these uncertain and disruptive global times, this book offers a proven pathway to allow the breaking down to be the breaking open into a whole new way of living, loving, and leading.
Her book will be released on June 13, 2023, it is currently available for pre-sale on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Make-Your-Path-Walking-Transformational/dp/1647424429/
Suzanne believes that the current time is an initiatory period, where individuals can grow and find wholeness through experiences of loss and uncovering their true selves. Simply seeking the light is not enough; true self-discovery happens in the darkness.
Suzanne describes how during transitional periods in a culture, shadow elements that were previously ignored or excluded tend to surface. It is important to understand and integrate both the feminine and masculine aspects of ourselves, we need a deep connection between the feminine and masculine energies.
She blew my mind a little with the concept of "Kill the Queen," which suggests that two powerful women cannot coexist peacefully and often resort to making each other wrong or feeling inadequate.
Her first book “The Way of the Mysterial Woman Upgrading How You Live, Love, and Lead.” talks about how we can move beyond jealousy and embrace our own sense of enoughness and wholeness.
Website: https://mysterialwoman.com Facebook: @MysterialWomanTwitter: @MysterialWoman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mysterialwoman/
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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**My guest on the show today is Stephen Jenkinson, and he challenged me to think a little differently about what I believed to be true about death, dying, grief, and living life. I hope this interview does the same for you.
Stephen is the author of 6 books, a storyteller, musician, culture activist, a ceremonialist, and a grief literacy advocate with many years of experience. In this episode, he shares some of his wisdom with us.
In our society, death is often shrouded in silence and denial. But what if we could change the narrative and create a language that allows us to speak openly about dying? Acknowledging the importance of open and honest conversations surrounding this inevitable part of life is crucial.
Stephen shares with the listeners how he has helped people to have honest conversations about death and dying.
Stephen is an advocate for embracing the realities of death and engaging in honest conversations with those nearing the end of their lives. Through his unique approach, Stephen challenges the prevailing death-phobic culture and seeks to foster a deeper understanding and acceptance of mortality.
He also shares with the listeners a bit about the work he does on stage with "A Night of Grief and Mystery” which is a unique experience that defies genres and captivates the soul. He has discovered that what they offer is not theater but a profound ceremony. This is not a morbid endeavor, but a two-hour show filled with storytelling, advocacy, and thought-provoking messages. They delve into the urgent dilemmas of our time, reminding each listener that the future lies within our grasp.
To find out more about Stephen Jenkinson, his work and any of his events see the links below.**
https://orphanwisdom.com/events-list/
https://www.instagram.com/griefandmystery/
https://www.facebook.com/orphanwisdom/
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
TikTok
My guest this week is Zil Eiler.
Life & Business Coach Zil Eiler is originally from São Paulo Brazil and she comes from a family of entrepreneurs where she learned foundational business concepts at a very young age.
Today she lives in So Cal with her 3 kids and hubby, and has focused her efforts on Coaching coaches and entrepreneurs to gain the confidence, mindset shifts, and skills necessary to build a successful business their way.
Zil shares with us a bit about her experience of watching her mother, caring for her grandmother at the end of life, some of what her faith tells her the afterlife will be like, how she got through her husband almost dying, and how she uses death awareness in her coaching business.
Zil shares the tools she used to help calm her anxiety when her husband was hospitalized and how she had different age-appropriate conversations with each of her children.
You can find Zil at the links below.
Social handles: IG @zileilercoaching
Website: www.zileiler.com
Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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This week is part two of my conversation with Jay Deutsch about the healing journey he went on after the death of his wife by suicide.
We will pick back up at the story of Jay being in the cemetery, the moment he forgave Larissa, and what life was like afterward.
After finding forgiveness, Jay gets thrown back into a dark night of the soul, triggered by a relationship with his twin flame.
During a two week rapid awakening, Jay woke up a different person. Everything he believed for 49 years made no sense anymore and everything that he didn’t believe in made sense.
The podcast has a new paid monthly subscription feature where you can financially support the show, any amount, large or small will help. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Here is a link to my Venmo if you want to make a one-time contribution.
Venmo @Jill-McClennen Jill McClennenvenmo.com
You can also email me for more information at jill@endoflifeclarity.com
If you cannot support the show financially, you can share it with someone that may enjoy it.
Links to contact Jay and all of his groups.
https://selfloveandmindsetcoach.com
https://www.facebook.com/selfloveandmindsetcoach
https://fb.com/groups/selfloveandmindsetcoach
https://fb.com/groups/learning2LOVEyourself
https://fb.com/groups/mylifeafterloss
https://fb.com/groups/griefsupportforyoungadults
Support the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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Welcome back to Seeing Death Clearly. I'm your host, Jill McClennen, a death doula and end-of-life coach.
The conversations I have with my guests may challenge you to think outside the box of what you believe to be true about death, dying grief, and learning to live life to the fullest.
This week's episode is a little different.
I have a conversation with Jay Deutsche about the healing journey, he went on after the death of his wife by suicide.
Because the finished episode ended up being about an hour long, I cut it in half.
This week you'll get to hear the first half of the story.
Jay talks about his first experiences with death, how he and Larissa met, about her postpartum depression, and her first attempt at ending her life.
Then he goes on to share about the successful attempt at ending her life, the dark hole he went into, and the moment he was able to forgive her.
Next week, I'll bring the second part of his healing journey, he went through a dark night of the soul and came out the other side completely transformed.
In the 31 episodes of the podcast that I have recorded, this is the only one that has made me cry during the interview.
It's a really beautiful story of love and forgiveness.
Be sure to come back next week to hear the rest of the story of how Jay has transformed his life after the death of his wife.
You don't wanna miss the end of this story of how after the shift he now uses his experience to help others.
Jay talks next week about the work he does now with people, and about the Facebook groups he created, there are links here to all of them and you will hear more about them next week.
https://selfloveandmindsetcoach.com
https://www.facebook.com/selfloveandmindsetcoach
https://fb.com/groups/selfloveandmindsetcoach
https://fb.com/groups/learning2LOVEyourself
https://fb.com/groups/mylifeafterloss
https://fb.com/groups/griefsupportforyoungadults
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and share it with a friend.
If you want to be part of a death-positive community, to join in on discussions about death, dying, and living life; be sure to join my Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle.
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
TikTok
In this episode, my guest is Dr. Jessica Metcalfe, she is a general dentist by trade but ended up specializing in working with cancer patients.
Jessica kept wishing away the next 25 to 30 years, thinking she has to get through the dental profession and make it to retirement but working at the cancer center showed her that not everyone makes it to retirement and we need to live life today.
We talk about her work with patients and how when you go through cancer treatments it may affect your teeth and gums, depending on what type of treatments you have.
The after-treatment care can and should involve a variety of different types of doctors so you have the best possible outcome.
A lot of our conversation focuses on the role of community in our life and our death.
There are new ways that people are creating community and connection, it is not only about the “traditional” family unit.
Having conversations with a lot of people with different beliefs is also very important to our growth as human beings.
Developing relationships with other people can lead us to feel very vulnerable but it is important to do this if we want a deep connection.
Jessica does work with individuals on asking those hard questions, being vulnerable with yourself, and it's how you go about changing that inner voice.
If you're interested in connecting with her you can find her on her website https://www.drjessicametcalfe.com/and on all social media platforms with the same at Dr. Jessica Metcalfe.
https://linktr.ee/Dr.Jessica.Metcalfe
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
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Laura West is a Registered Nurse, energy healer, psychic medium, author, and podcast host dedicated to both the sciences and spirituality.
She hosts her own podcast called A Guided Life and authored her book titled Guided.
She is dedicated to spreading the word of love and teaching others how to communicate with their spirit guides through intuition.
Growing up Laura did not experience a lot of death, her Grandmother died when she was a teenager and Laura shares what she thinks her parents did correctly surrounding the illness and death.
Her experiences with grief are not as different than the rest of us even though she is a psychic medium but after her Grandmother died and she visited in her dreams, Laura had the confirmation needed to accept her gifts as a medium.
The time that Laura felt the most grief was after her dog died, and in our culture there can be a lot of shame connected to greiving pets, but she shares with us her experience.
Jill also shares why she sometimes feels she doesn’t grieve “properly”.
In the episode, we mention when I was a guest on Laura’s podcast as well as an episode she did about processing anxiety after being spiritually awakened. There is a link in the timestamps to both of those episodes if you would like to listen to them.
Thank you so much for joining us.
Find out more about Laura at https://linktr.ee/guidedwest
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
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In this episode, my guest is Patrick Linfante.
Patrick Linfante has experienced more valleys and mountaintops than most people – transforming from a broken man to an Ironman.
He uses his experience to give listeners a vision for creating their own path to their dreams, their own vision, and to recapturing the dream of their life.
Patrick should have died in a car accident 12 years ago.
After that experience, he devoted his life to sharing his story to help people not feel so alone.
He has found that being vulnerable helps others to be vulnerable, which bridges the gap between us.
Patrick shares some details about the accident and the long road to recovery, which was more mental than physical.
He has taken this experience and realizing that he has a second chance, he can use it to help people and he has dedicated his life to being in service to others.
“I want to know what I can do with this life. I want to know what a second chance can be. I wanna know how much I can use and try to counteract and offset that feeling of, I don't deserve this by, okay, I have gotten this chance, so what can I do with it?”
This is a really wonderful episode about healing and transformation.
You can go to the timestamps or the transcript to skip or find certain sections of the podcast.
You can reach Patrick through his website www.patricklinfante.com
Or on social media.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/patricklinfante
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/patricklinfante
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thepatrickperspective
Thank you so much for joining us.
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
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Welcome back to Seeing Death Clearly. I'm your host, Jill McClennen, a death doula and end-of-life coach.
In this episode, I talk with Danika Rose
Danika is a poet, a singer-songwriter, a mother, and a lover. She does business consulting and strategy and uses her intuition to help guide her clients. Danikah is also a psychic medium of 13 years and has a strong connection with people who have passed on.
Her business name is Danika Rose Creative, and you can find her on all the platforms.
Danikah Rose Naweli | Facebook
Danikah Intuitive Business Strategy & Authentic Marketing (@danikahrosecreative)
Our conversation gets into some really touchy subjects, you can check the time stamps to see if there are any parts you may want to skip, and there is a transcript of the full episode as well.
We talk about suicide and abortion, and this is partially a trigger warning but also a reminder that these are really deep topics that we share some of our thoughts and opinions but what is shared is by no means a complete explanation of what either of us believes about these topics.
Over time you will hear more about my beliefs, I have already had a few conversations with people about suicide, but one thing about me is that I am always learning and changing, so my beliefs around these topics have changed and will continue to change over time.
We also talk a bit about miscarriage and stillbirth, so if any of these subjects are sensitive to you, there are timestamps for you to be able to skip the sections you do not want to hear.
I would love for you to send me a message and let me know what you think about this episode, your beliefs about the topics we discuss, and if we gave you some new ways to view things.
Thank you so much for joining us.
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
TikTok
Welcome back to Seeing Death Clearly. I'm your host, Jill McClennen, a death doula and end-of-life coach.
In this episode, I talk with my friend Beth McMillian.
Beth McMillan is the forever winner of “2 Truths and A Lie”. She loves her boring job at the coolest place on earth and belongs to one cat. She has 2 kids, a mortgage, and is a Real AdultⓇ about 42% of the time.
Seeing Death Clearly is a show that challenges you to think about your beliefs about death, dying, grief, and living life.
Today’s episode covers a lot of ground over all of those topics including do animals have an awareness of death as humans do.
Beth shares with us what it was like growing up Jewish in the South.
Trigger warning that there is a bit of cursing in this episode, as well as a story of going through a reenactment of the Holocaust when Beth was in a teenage youth group.
You can go to the timestamps to skip that part if you would like.
Beth talks about two of her favorite books, here are the links to the books.
https://www.amazon.com/Stiff-Curious-Lives-Human-Cadavers/dp/0393324826
https://www.amazon.com/Smoke-Gets-Your-Eyes-Crematory/dp/0393351904
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend or family member that may find it helpful.
If you could leave me a 5-star review on your favorite platform, that helps more people find that show that may enjoy the conversations.
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
TikTok
In today's episode, I'm talking with Erin Hodgson.
I love talking with Erin, I was a guest on the podcast she cohosts and our conversation always flows so naturally. You can find a link to that episode here.
Erin and I talk about having tough conversations with children as well as how to work with our grief in a way that we can access it without it overwhelming us.
Erin is a psychic medium and intuitive healer who specializes in working with grief.
Erin has a long personal history with grief, both her own and that of those around her.
Through her healing journey, she has learned that grief is something we must learn to live with, move with, and find peace with.
Erin is a passionate advocate for openly acknowledging our grief, collectively and as individuals.
Since discovering her psychic medium gifts in her late 30's, Erin has found that her capacity to hold space for the women she works with is deeply enhanced through having a foot in each world, the human and the spiritual.
She uses several modalities and tools to provide a safe, compassionate, and loving space for women to grieve and heal.
Erin is a Co-Founder at Awakening the Wise Woman, they help women to believe they are enough so they can tap into their potential, be more present, and engage with life more fully.
Awakening the Wise Woman works with women who are fed up with staying stuck and small and are ready to say YES to change through leadership coaching and 1:1 grief support.
If you would like to learn more about how you can work with me on your end-of-life or grief journey, you can head to my website where you will find a link to book a complimentary 30-minute call.
You can also visit Awakening the Wise Woman’s website to learn more about how you can work with Erin.
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend or family member that may find it helpful.
If you would like to leave me a review on your favorite platform, that helps more people find that show that may enjoy the conversations.
Erin@awakeningthewisewoman.com
Erin Hodgson on Facebook
@erinhodgsonawakening Instagram
“We empower women to be bolder, braver, and bigger in all aspects of their lives.”
https://www.facebook.com/awakeningthewisewoman
https://www.awakeningthewisewoman.com
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
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Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
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In episode 9 of Seeing Death Clearly, my guest is Mary McMonagle.
Mary is your healing hype girl guiding you to live a purposeful life through her spiritual lifestyle brand True Vibe.
She is a reiki master teaching students to heal, transform and understand their life's purpose from a vibrational level. Also, she is a certified quantum life and energy coach.
Her brand True Vibe is about following your heart and staying true to yourself.
She believes healing doesn't happen overnight. Mary guides her clients to embody trust and confidence - trusting themselves and feeling confident living their purpose.
Mary specifically works with women who want to heal parts of themselves so they can attract their soulmate.
When you are really seeking love and you are getting ready to put yourself out there, it all comes down to healing beliefs that you have created over the years around your confidence, your self-love, and around trusting yourself.
“Our beliefs that are so ingrained in us from childhood, they were put there by our parents, by the society around us, whether it's our schools, our religions, and where we grow up. They stay with us and it really affects the way that we move through life. With my work with people around the end of life, we need to shift what we believe in order to meet the experiences that we're gonna have.”
This episode is a little different, we recorded it in two parts.
When I first spoke with Mary, her father was on hospice and we recorded an additional quick episode after her father died, so be sure to listen to the entire interview.
The break in recordings happens around the 38-minute mark, you can find the break in the chapters as well if you would like to jump there easily.
This is a really beautiful episode where we talk about healing as well as death and grief.
As with all of my conversations on the podcast, I hope it challenges you to think about your experiences and beliefs about death, dying, and grief.
Please subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly to hear more stories about people’s experiences around death, dying, grief, and living life.
You can find Mary at the links below, and be sure to check out the freebie she talks about in the episode.
Instagram: www.instagram.com/marymc4
Mary's Podcast: https://anchor.fm/mary-mcmonagle9
Upgrade Your Energy Freebie: https://mary-mcmonagle.mykajabi.com/offers/DLVUd92k/checkout
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life.
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
Website www.endoflifeclarity.com
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle
LinkedIn
TikTok
In episode 8 of Seeing Death Clearly, my guest today is Kelly Hayler.
Kelly is a trained End of Life Doula based in New York City with a deep understanding and respect that everyone brings their own fears, beliefs, and experiences to the topic of death and dying.
Her background is in project management which means she knows how to get organized and address your needs as quickly as possible. She is here to assist with your questions and navigate the path forward by talking about what you want, and what your options are and helping to prepare you for this phase of your life.
Kelly and I talk about her work as a death doula in New York City and her work with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Kelly was never afraid of death but in our culture today, we have made death so clinical and gotten away from community support.
We talked about how she had a similar experience to me during her training to become a death doula.
I found through first-hand experience that the more I came to terms with my thoughts and feelings about death and dying, the more present I became in my everyday life.
Kelly and I hope to share that with you too in this episode, how you can live a better life by having a healthier relationship with death and dying.
She shares about the death of a good friend and the experience they both had while Kelly supported her through her illness and the end-of-life process.
Our conversation also centers around grief, all types of grief, not just for the death of a loved one.
“Grief is about loss but doesn't mean it has to be about death only. It's about loss, we don't give ourselves a society enough kindness and gentleness around what it means to end a relationship or have to say this is not a healthy exchange, and I need to separate myself from that. You're coming from a place of feeling wounded or knowing that something wasn't healthy for you. There's still loss around that. You have to grieve that even if it was your choice or not.”
You can find Kelly at https://deathdoulanewyork.com/orhttps://linktr.ee/deathdoulanyc
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. https://bit.ly/betterlifeworkbook
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
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https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
In episode 7 of Seeing Death Clearly, my guest today is Fiona Pimentel.
Fiona grew up in the UK but lives in the Cayman Islands and has for the last 21 years.
Fiona and I talk about her experiences with death and dying, focusing on the death of her sister and her mother within a few weeks of each other.
It is an interesting story, she shares how things lined up in a way that almost felt like they were meant to be that way and how it allowed her to be with her mother for the last few weeks of her life.
“I sat by my mom’s bedside for a week and just kind of stroked her arms and put moisturizer on her skin. They teach you to put a drop of water on the person's tongue because they can't drink. I would say things like, I love you and stuff like that.”
We talk a lot about grief, how the body will process grief in unusual ways sometimes, and how most of us do not take the time to consciously process our grief.
“My Dad was kind of in a process of dying for two years. I didn't really grieve him that much until one day I was dancing and all of a sudden all this grief came out. It was the dance, it was the movement that brought it out.”
Fiona works with women who feel that they have a sense of purpose to help them to grow their confidence and to get clarity around what they need to do, to be more courageous in stepping out and doing the thing they feel called to do.
The work goes so well with the lessons we have learned from people that are near death, and the regrets that they have around not chasing after their dreams because of fear.
As with all of my conversations on the podcast, I hope it challenges you to think about your experiences and beliefs about death, dying, and grief.
You can find Fiona on Facebook.
https://www.seaorchardretreat.com/orchard-coaching-retreats/
She also has a Facebook group you may be interested in joining.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/calledtocourage
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. https://bit.ly/betterlifeworkbook
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
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https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
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https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
In today’s episode, I talk with my friend Brion about his experiences growing up as a Black man in America.
The experiences he shares do not represent how all Black men grow up in the United States, but it is his experience growing up in Trenton NJ.
It started with the death of his grandfather when he was 8 years old, and not understanding what he was feeling and how to process the grief.
Brion is a follower of Islam and he shares with us the beliefs that he has about death and dying according to his faith.
I share some of what I have observed about death and grief in the black community from my experiences with my friends, coworkers, and students.
This is by no means an expert opinion on the matter, only two friends having a conversation about our experiences.
As with all of my episodes, the conversation will challenge your thoughts and beliefs about death, dying, grief, and living life. Please listen with an open mind.
A quick warning that we do talk about gun violence and suicide in this episode, there are no graphic details and you can look to the time stamps if you would like to skip those parts of our conversation.
Brion shares about gun violence in his community including the death of two of his friends.
Together we share our experience around the death of my coworker and his teacher Chef Jonathan. Both of us felt his loss deeply but in different ways.
I have also added a full transcript of this conversation if you want to read it after listening.
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. https://bit.ly/betterlifeworkbook
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
https://m.facebook.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
In today’s episode, I am talking with Bex Feltmann.
Bex of Helper B LLC Holistic Healing Support is a former western medicine nurse of over 15 years with experience as an ER nurse and OR First Assistant who has adopted a more holistic approach as a provider.
She is a practicing holistic health and well-being astrologer and a Certified Provider of Compassionate Bereavement Care® offering empowering client-centered care through all of life’s transitions.
Her work is rooted in self-awareness and self-acceptance which supports her clients in living a more authentic approach to life.
In this episode, we also talk about her great experience with the death of her Grandmother.
Bex believes that death and grief are sacred experiences and she shares with us why she believes so.
Trigger warning: Bex and I talk about our slightly unconventional ideas about suicide, there are no graphic details but I didn’t want it to be a surprise.
I encourage you to listen to this episode with an open mind.
If this subject is a trigger for you please skip the episode or use the time stamps to skip the parts you don’t want to hear.
If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 in the US, you will be connected to trained counselors that will listen, understand how your problems are affecting you, provide support, and connect you to resources if necessary.
Bex's website is www.HelperB.comYou can also find her at https://www.instagram.com/helperBhealing/and
https://www.facebook.com/helperbhealing
Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast.
I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. https://bit.ly/betterlifeworkbook
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
https://m.facebook.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
In today's episode, Jill McClennen talks with Lauren Fonseca about the death of her sister at a young age, as well as Jill and Lauren’s love for the state of NJ.
Lauren talks about the experience of having a sister live with and die from Cystic fibrosis.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that causes problems with breathing and digestion. CF affects about 35,000 people in the United States. (source https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/cystic_fibrosis.htm)
When Lauren was 27 her sister died when she was 25.
Lauren shares with the listeners how her sister was a model for how to face death, she even was able to plan out her entire funeral from the outfit she would wear to the songs being sung and who would sing them.
In the end, her sister’s death led to her family being closer than they ever were.
**Join us for this moving conversation.
Lauren Fonseca works in higher education as both a professional staff and an instructor.**
She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2007 (two years before her sister died) and blogs about disability and higher education (among other things) at proffonseca.com.
Subscribe and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast, I appreciate the support and it helps get the word out to more people that could benefit from hearing the podcast.
Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. https://bit.ly/betterlifeworkbook
You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
https://m.facebook.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
In today's episode, Jill McClennen talks with Bonnie Silva about her background and how it has affected her beliefs about death, dying, and grief.
Bonnie Silva has worn many hats throughout her working career and in the most recent years being a Postpartum+EOL doula and UX/UI Designer.
As a doula, Bonnie has transitioned from Birth Doula and stepped into the EOL Doula path.
Through empathy, and sarcasm but with loving humor, she describes her work and understanding of life.
Bonnie lives in Brooklyn, NY with her beloved cats Lucifer and Delilah. On her days off she enjoys pole dancing, watching detective movies, and hanging with like-minded friends.
In this episode we talk about death doulas play an important role in society and will do even more so in the future.
We discuss the importance of informing people about the end of life and the challenges that come with it.
Jill and Bonnie discuss their common background of being raised Catholic and how it shaped their spiritual beliefs.
Bonnie became a death doula in 2020 after experiencing a stillborn birth as a birth doula.
We talk a lot about the importance of the online community, especially since 2020, but also how amazing it is that we could meet and it would not have been possible without the online platforms.
2020 also showed us a lot about grief and we both learned how to process it partially due to our training to become death doulas.
You can find Bonnie at bonniesilva.com and on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/realdoulaclub and on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@doulaclub
Her podcast is Doula Club on your favorite podcasting platform.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
https://m.facebook.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
Rebecca Johnson gives widows permission to widow their own way.
She is the host of the podcast; Love is not dead…Just my husband, which is a podcast for widows and anyone that is grieving.
As a widow that has survived multiple losses, and is living with a rare cancer, she is dedicated to encouraging widows moving forward in their grief.
After realizing she was falling down a rabbit hole of grief, she was determined to find her way back to the living.
In this episode, we will talk about how our experiences of death and dying will change with age as well as with our relationship with the person who has died.
Having conversations with our loved ones about what we want at the end of life is important to help prepare them if the unexpected happens.
When her husband suddenly died, she tried to navigate her grief in an unconventional way, learning that grief does not workthe way that we hope it will.
Time is needed to grieve properly and other people will judge how people grieve, but it looks different for every person.
Not all widows need the same type of support, not everyone has wonderful memories, the romanticized version of widows.
Your grieving will be different than everyone else, there is no right or wrong.
You can listen to Rebecca's podcast here. https://loveisnotdeadjustmyhusband.buzzsprout.com/share
Follow her on Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/loveisnotdead_justmyhusband/
Connect with her on Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/loveisnotdeadjustmyhusband
Please subscribe to my podcast to hear more stories about people’s experiences around death, dying, grief, and how thinking about our death can help us live a better life.
You can also connect with me on social media and join my Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle which is a death-positive community for conversations like these to happen every day.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
https://m.facebook.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
Seeing Death Clearly is my new podcast and on the first episode, I have my husband Stephen Wilson.
I decided to have Stephen on as my first guest because we have been together for about 23 years and we have talked about death and dying early on in our relationship but there is still more to talk about and learn about each other’s wishes.
Stephen grew up in FL and I was raised in NJ, which means that our backgrounds in life are pretty different.
He has basically always believed that life is part of death and that death is part of life.
Stephen’s parents were young when they had him and his grandmother was young when she had his mother, so he didn’t experience a lot of death of loved ones growing up.
Even though they didn’t experience a lot of death in their family when he was a child, both his parents worked in a hospital and so death was part of their normal conversations.
When he was a teenager he volunteered at the hospital to be part of a disaster preparedness exercise, the experience was interesting but it didn’t scare him.
Stephen had a young cousin die from a heroin overdose and we talk about how that experience made it clear that the death of a young person could happen to anyone including our children.
My worst nightmare is one of the children dying before us, and Stephen has a very grounded way of viewing this. He feels that the reality is, they could die before us, but we take steps to prevent this from happening.
Communicating with the parents of children that are around our children, and asking about guns in the home and how they are stored, are part of the measures we take to keep our kids safe. This could be a difficult conversation for some people to have.
Part of life is having conversations about hard topics such as asking other parents about guns and talking about our wishes for the end of life.
Having hard conversations will not prevent the unexpected from happening, it will make sure that when something does happen, we are as prepared as we can be.
You can’t live in fear of the knowledge that one day someone will die. Thinking about death and dying has made me appreciate the time I have with Stephen and the kids in a way I wasn’t expecting.
Please subscribe to my podcast to hear more stories about people’s experiences around death, dying, grief, and how thinking about our death can help us live a better life.
You can also connect with me on social media and join my Facebook group End of Life Clarity Circle which is a death-positive community for conversations like these to happen every day.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
https://m.facebook.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity
Welcome to Seeing Death Clearly, I am your host Jill McClennen, a death doula and end-of-life coach.
Seeing Death Clearly is a show that challenges you to think about your beliefs about death, dying, grief, and living life.
I found through first-hand experience that the more I came to terms with my thoughts and feelings about death and dying, the more present I became in my everyday life and I hope to share that with you too, how you can live a better life by having a healthier relationship with death and dying.
Each episode will feature a guest that will share with us their beliefs and stories about death and dying, these will be real honest conversations about a topic most of us avoided talking about our entire lives.
I am on a mission to change that, one conversation at a time.
This podcast is for the purpose of education only and is not a replacement for therapy.
I suggest you seek out the help of a trained medical professional if you are having thoughts of suicide or extreme fears about death and dying that are preventing you from functioning in your daily life.
Join me to hear people’s stories about their experiences, you will be able to listen to Seeing Death Clearly on all major platforms.
https://www.endoflifeclarity.com
http://www.instagram.com/endoflifeclarity
https://m.facebook.com/endoflifeclarity
https://www.facebook.com/groups/endoflifeclaritycircle/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillmcclennen
https://www.tiktok.com/@endoflifeclarity