Ask a Death Doula

March Madness End of Life Edition

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 08:55:13 -0500

In this special episode, Suzanne O’Brien, RN, founder of Doulagivers Institute and former oncology and hospice nurse, celebrates the one-year anniversary of her book The Good Death: A Guide for Supporting Your Loved One Through the End of Life.

After caring for more than 1,000 people at the bedside, Suzanne witnessed how much fear and confusion families experience simply because they were never taught what to expect during the end-of-life process.

Just 100 years ago, families knew how to care for loved ones at the end of life. Today, much of that knowledge has been lost. This episode explores how education, compassion, and open conversations can help us bring this sacred knowledge back.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why understanding death can help us live more meaningful lives
• What inspired Suzanne to write The Good Death
• Lessons learned from caring for over 1,000 people at the end of life
• Why end-of-life education is urgently needed today
• How individuals and communities can help shift the culture around death and dying

March Madness: End-of-Life Edition Events

Goodreads Giveaway
To celebrate the first anniversary of The Good Death, we are giving away 10 signed copies of the book.

Enter the giveaway here
https://www.goodreads.com/

Host Your Own Good Death Book Club or Death & Dying Course

We are inviting people around the world to host their own Good Death Book Clubs or community Death & Dying courses based on Suzanne’s book.

Information Zoom
March 18
7:00 PM Eastern

Save your seat here
https://doulagivers.zoom.us/meeting/register/qKEjSnH0Rres4rUyyPI27A

During this session you will learn how to host a Good Death Book Club, facilitate meaningful conversations about death and dying, and bring end-of-life education to libraries, community groups, and spiritual centers.

The Good Death Review Party

March 31

Join us for a live celebration and review party to help more people discover The Good Death.

During this event we will celebrate the book’s first anniversary, write reviews together, share stories and reflections, and give away special gifts and merchandise.

Join here
https://doulagivers.zoom.us/j/89693019952

Why This Conversation Matters

Every single one of us will experience end-of-life, either personally or with someone we love. Yet most families enter this sacred time without guidance or education.

When we bring back the knowledge of how to care for someone at the end of life, fear decreases, connection deepens, and love leads the way.

Death returns to being the natural and sacred experience it was always meant to be.

Resources

Learn more about Doulagivers Institute
https://doulagivers.com

Get The Good Death
https://thegooddeathbook.com

Register for the next Free Doulagivers Family Caregiver Training
https://event.webinarjam.com/4kv5v/register/6rv9vhm?webinar_id=20

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here Join us at Life Café here Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here   Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑
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How Thinking About Death Makes You Happier

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 10:35:45 -0500

What if the secret to a happier life isn’t positive thinking — but remembering that life is finite?

After caring for more than 1,000 people at the end of life, Suzanne B. O’Brien, RN discovered a profound truth: awareness of death doesn’t create fear — it creates gratitude.

Recently quoted by The New York Times on happiness, Suzanne shares how working with dying patients transformed her life. What once felt like obligation — “I have to” — became privilege — “I get to.” Even ordinary moments began to feel extraordinary.

In this episode, she explores how consciously acknowledging mortality awakens presence, clarity, gratitude, and deeper life meaning. She also reflects on research highlighted by The Washington Post showing that healthy mortality awareness can actually increase happiness and life satisfaction.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why death awareness increases gratitude instead of anxiety
• The most common regret of the dying
• How shifting from “have to” → “get to” changes everything
• The science behind mortality awareness and meaning
• A simple daily reframing practice to start today

After sitting bedside with thousands in their final days, Suzanne noticed a powerful pattern:
No one wished they had worked more or worried more.
They wished they had lived more fully, loved more openly, and been more present.

Death is not the enemy.
It is the great teacher of how to live.

Because when we understand death,
we finally understand life.

The One Question That Determines Your Good Death

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:53:42 -0500

What if one question could change everything about how you die?

In this powerful episode, Suzanne shares a pivotal moment from her early days as an oncology nurse that transformed her understanding of end-of-life care. At the heart of this story is the one question that becomes the foundation for all future medical decisions:

What does quality of life mean to you — and when would you consider it no longer acceptable?

Without this conversation, the system is designed to keep treating — even when it no longer aligns with what matters most.With it, care becomes aligned, peaceful, and intentional.

You’ll learn why most end-of-life suffering comes from lack of planning, how fear drives crisis decisions, the difference between hope and false hope, and why defining your quality-of-life benchmark is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family.

A good death doesn’t begin in the final days — it begins the moment you choose how you want to live.

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here   Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑
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Can Learning About Death Heal Grief?

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 09:05:01 -0500

Can learning about death actually heal grief?

In this deeply moving episode from The Good Death virtual book tour, Suzanne B. O’Brien, RN, sits down with award-winning filmmaker and death educator Johanna J. Lunn, co-founder of The When You Die Project.

After experiencing multiple profound losses early in life, Johanna was unexpectedly guided toward a life devoted to exploring death, grief, and consciousness through film and community dialogue. What she discovered is transformative:
education about death doesn’t increase fear — it dissolves it.

Together, Suzanne and Johanna explore how understanding what truly happens at the end of life can soften grief, awaken spiritual insight, and reconnect us to the essence of who we are.

In this episode, they discuss:
• Why avoiding conversations about death amplifies suffering
• How awareness brings peace instead of fear
• Lessons from those at the end of life
• The continuity of love and consciousness
• Grief as a doorway to awakening

This conversation is for anyone who is grieving, fears death, or feels there is something more to this human experience.

Because when we understand death…
we begin to truly understand life.

Johanna J. Lunn is an award-winning filmmaker and co-founder of The When You Die Project, a Canadian initiative dedicated to fostering conversations and education about death and dying through film and community engagement. Through documentary storytelling and public dialogue, her work explores mortality, grief, meaning, and the profound spiritual dimensions of the human journey. Website here: https://whenyoudie.org

What the Dying Teach Us About the True Meaning of Love

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:31:38 -0500

This Valentine’s Day, we’re talking about love — not the romanticized version we’ve been sold, but the deeper truth revealed by those at the end of life. After sitting with over 1,000 people as they were dying, one message comes through again and again: love is the meaning of life. Not achievement. Not productivity. Not perfection. Love. In this episode, Suzanne B. O’Brien RN shares what the dying teach us about: Why we’ve misunderstood love The Four Truths people realize at the end of life How coherence — heart-led living — changes everything Why the heart was always meant to lead, and the mind to support What true life mastery actually looks like How remembering who we truly are transforms our choices, relationships, and peace. This is an invitation to soften, to remember, and to return home to the truth of who you are: a spiritual being having a human experience, here to learn love. 💜In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Valentine’s Day reimagined through end-of-life wisdom The Four Truths revealed at the bedside Heart coherence vs. mind-led survival Love as alignment, not attachmentLetting go of judgment and fear Why love is not something we earn — it’s who we areReflection Questions: Where in your life has the mind been leading instead of the heart? What would change if love guided your choices?How might your life feel if you trusted your heart as truth? 🌟Resources Mentioned: Download the Universal Life Mastery Guide A gentle guide to remembering who you are, why you’re here, and how to live from coherence and love. https://doulagivers.com/ulm-guide/ Closing Thought: Love isn’t something we find. It’s something we remember. Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here   Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑
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One Year of The Good Death: The Stories You’ve Shared Changed Everything

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:00:30 -0500

In this episode, Suzanne O’Brien reflects on the first anniversary of The Good Death and the simple intention behind the book: to soften fear, open conversations, and remind us that death can be sacred and peaceful when we plan ahead. After hearing from caregivers, nurses, doctors, and families whose lives were changed by the book, Suzanne invites listeners to leave a heartfelt review—because reviews are how this message reaches people before crisis, supports overwhelmed caregivers, and helps families discover another way to walk the end-of-life journey.

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here   Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑
If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create the life you want by surrounding yourself with positivity and watching daily.  Click here to subscribe! ツ CONNECT WITH ME ツ
Leave a comment on this video and it'll get a response. Or you can connect with me on different social platforms too:

The One Thing to Do To Build a Thriving Death Doula Business

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 09:20:22 -0500

In this episode, Suzanne shares her guiding model, Serve & Assist, and why it’s essential for heart-centered death doulas and caregivers today. Learn how serving your community first—through education and presence—creates trust, impact, and a sustainable practice without pressure or hustle.

Suzanne explains why 80–90% of a positive end-of-life experience comes from planning ahead and how this work can bring both purpose and fulfillment.

If you want to make a real difference while staying in integrity with your heart, this episode is for you.

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Holding Space for Men and Veterans at the End of Life with Adam Daviau

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 09:34:49 -0500

Are Men and Veterans Being Left Alone in Grief and at the End of Life?

Or Are We Asking Them to Carry Their Pain in Silence?

There is a quiet truth in end-of-life care that is rarely spoken about: many men—and especially veterans—carry grief, trauma, and emotional pain without support. In this episode of Ask a Death Doula, Suzanne O’Brien, RN—founder of Doulagivers Institute—is joined by end-of-life doula Adam Daviau for an honest, compassionate conversation about grief, presence, and dignity at the end of life.

🔗 Connect with Adam Daviau:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beautifulexistencedoulaservices
Website: Here

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

The 3 Types of Pain at the End of Life (and How to Manage Them)

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 09:33:49 -0500

Is End-of-Life Pain Really Being Managed?

Or Are Families Being Asked to Do the Impossible Without Training?

There is a quiet truth in end-of-life care that many families discover too late: pain is often misunderstood, mismanaged, or missed entirely. In this episode of Ask a Death Doula, Suzanne O’Brien, RN—founder of Doulagivers Institute—speaks with honesty, clarity, and deep compassion about pain management at the end of life and what family caregivers truly need to know. This is not about blame. It is about education, empowerment, and dignity.

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

LIFE CAFE is Now WEEKLY: Building a Global Community Built on Love

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 17:23:28 -0500

In this episode of Ask a Death Doula, Suzanne O’Brien shares a heartfelt reflection on this moment in humanity—and a special announcement:

Doulagivers Life Café is now meeting weekly, live, free, and globally. Life Café was born during the COVID pandemic as a sanctuary when fear and isolation were overwhelming. Today, it returns weekly as a space to pause, breathe, and remember our shared humanity. This is not about doing more. It’s about being. And choosing love over fear.

🌍 In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Why most end-of-life experiences are harder than they need to be

• How death becomes one of our greatest teachers about life

• The difference between human ego energy and being/heart energy

• How fear impacts the nervous system and keeps us disconnected

• Why Life Café was created—and why it’s now weekly

💛 The Heart of This Episode Every day, we are being asked to choose: love or fear. When we choose love, we come back into coherence—with ourselves, with others, and with life itself.

🗓️ LIFE CAFÉ (WEEKLY)

LINK HERE

Every Wednesday 12:00–1:00 PM Eastern Time

Live on Zoom | Free | Global

Life Café is a place to simply show up—in presence, compassion, and non-judgment. Each gathering closes with a global meditation and prayer, holding humanity and the Earth in love.

🧭 FREE GUIDE Universal Life Mastery (ULM) Guide What Suzanne has learned from end-of-life patients about how to live more fully.

👉 Download here: https://doulagivers.com/ulm-guide/

💬 QUESTION FOR YOU

Where in your life are you being invited to choose love over fear right now?

#AskADeathDoula #LifeCafe #Doulagivers #ChooseLove #EndOfLifeWisdom #ConsciousLiving #NervousSystem #Presence #LoveOverFear

A Year in Review — Doulagivers Institute 2025 | Global Impact, Compassion & Care

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 07:45:00 -0500

As we close out 2025, Suzanne B. O’Brien, RN shares a heartfelt Year in Review for the Doulagivers Institute, reflecting on three extraordinary milestones that are helping transform end-of-life care around the world. This episode honors what’s possible when education, compassion, and community come together.

🌍 In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: • Expanding End-of-Life Education Worldwide In January 2025, the Doulagivers Level 1 End-of-Life Doula Training was expanded into 15 languages and offered completely free.

To date, more than 400,000 people in 36 countries have accessed this foundational caregiver education—returning a skill once passed down through generations. With 98% of hands-on end-of-life care provided by family caregivers, this training continues to fill one of the most critical gaps in modern healthcare.

A Book That Met the World Suzanne reflects on the release of The Good Death, launched March 18, 2025. Often described as “What to Expect When You’re Expecting—for the other end of life,” the book became an instant international bestseller and was named one of Library Journal’s Best Books of 2025. Now available in Spanish and distributed across Europe, China, and India, the book is helping families approach end-of-life with peace, clarity, and empowerment.

Compassion Made Tangible in Guatemala One of the most moving moments of the year was Suzanne’s return to Guatemala to witness the completed Elizabeth Kübler-Ross Respite House, which Doulagivers Institute helped fund. The respite house now provides a safe and dignified place for families traveling from the mountains to Guatemala City for medical care—families who previously slept on the streets while their loved ones were hospitalized. This story is a powerful reminder of what happens when compassion becomes action.

🎧 Listen, Reflect & Share This episode is a celebration of impact, gratitude, and the growing global movement to restore sacredness to both life and death.

🌟 Free Live Masterclass Invitation Jan. 1st at 7pm EST : CLICK HERE: https://suzannebobrienrn.com/masterclass Continue the journey with Suzanne in this free live online masterclass:

Is The DEATH DOULA Movement DYING?

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:58:46 -0500

Is the Death Doula Movement Dying? Or Is It Being Called to Grow Up? There is a quiet question being asked behind the scenes of end-of-life care—by hospices, medical teams, families, and even doulas themselves: Is the death doula movement losing its way? In this powerful episode of ASK A DEATH DOULA, Suzanne B. O’Brien, RN—founder of the Doulagivers Institute and author of the bestselling book THE GOOD DEATH—speaks with honesty, compassion, and clarity about what is really happening within the death doula movement today. This is not an attack. It is a call to integrity. 🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why death doulas exist in a non-regulated, non-medical, and unlicensed space—and why that matters The difference between a certificate of completion and meaningful, evidence-based end-of-life education How the explosion of “trendy” death doula trainings has created wide variability in ethics, depth, and preparedness What a 2020 article in the Journal of Palliative Care and Social Practice revealed about hospice teams struggling to trust doulas due to inconsistent training. Why death is not a medical experience, yet still requires education in physiology, signs and symptoms, ethical scope, and interdisciplinary collaboration. How Doulagivers listened—to hospices, medical directors, families, and their own graduates—and responded. Real-world examples of Doulagivers graduates working successfully inside hospice systems: Michelle Donaldson, full-time Doulagiver employed by Unified Care Hospice Karen Midlo, hospice community educator Jane Whitlock, resident Doulagiver in senior living Lindsay Ward, now a full-time Volunteer & Bereavement Coordinator for her hospice. Why these women are achieving both IMPACT and INCOME—and why they are not outliers. The important decision that beginning in 2026, Certified Doulagivers will be application-only. Why This Moment Matters The aging demographic shift is undeniable. Mainstream medicine cannot meet the demand alone. Doulas—when properly educated—are not a threat to hospice. They are an asset. They are the bridge. The eyes. The ears. The heart. As one hospice medical director shared about Doulagivers graduate Michelle Donaldson: “The presence of a Doulagiver provides an additional layer of compassionate care—extra eyes, hands, and heart at the bedside. What makes Michelle truly exceptional is the depth of her knowledge, her calm and grounding demeanor, and her ability to have meaningful, honest conversations about the end of life in a way that is both comforting and deeply human.” If you feel that being a Doulagiver / End-of-Life Doula is your calling—and you want training that hospices trust, families rely on, and that is grounded in real bedside experience— 👉 Apply to become a Certified Doulagiver Beginning in 2026, certification will be application-only to ensure alignment, readiness, ethical responsibility, and the highest standard of care. 👉 Or start with our Level 1 End-of-Life Doula Family Caregiver Training A powerful introduction to evidence-based end-of-life care that is transforming families and communities worldwide. 🔗 Apply here: https://join.doulagivers.com/path-to-... 🔗 Level 1 Training: Click here: https://event.webinarjam.com/4kv5v/re... With gratitude and unwavering commitment, Suzanne B. O’Brien, RN Founder, Doulagivers Institute

How Doulagivers is Changing the Face of End-of-Life Care Worldwide

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 04:30:00 -0500

In this episode, Suzanne O’Brien shares her inspiring journey from working as a nurse to becoming the founder of Doulagivers, an organization dedicated to providing free end-of-life care training to people around the world. Suzanne discusses her impactful work in countries like Guatemala and Thailand, where she has helped bring compassionate care and vital resources to communities in need. She emphasizes the belief that compassionate end-of-life care is a fundamental human right, and describes the ongoing global expansion of Doulagivers’ mission.

Suzanne highlights several recent milestones, including the successful completion of a much-needed respite house in Guatemala, which offers comfort and support to those facing end-of-life challenges. She also announces the launch of Spanish-language training programs to better serve diverse communities, and introduces the upcoming Life Café community initiative, designed to foster open conversations and support around end-of-life issues. Throughout the episode, Suzanne encourages listeners to choose love over fear, embrace conscious and intentional living, and become part of the growing movement to make compassionate, accessible end-of-life care available to all.

(00:01:20) Listening to Higher Self and Life Mastery
(00:02:32) Suzanne’s Nursing Background and Disillusionment
(00:03:38) Transition to Hospice and Founding Doula Givers
(00:10:06) Doulagivers Thailand: The Beginning
(00:12:22) Inspired Guidance and the Path to Guatemala
(00:13:58) Influence of Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
(00:16:43) The Vision and Creation of the Guatemala Respite House

Links mentioned in this episode:

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation

Fundación Elisabeth Kübler Ross Guatemala

Join the Life Cafe here

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

#deathdoula #deathdoultraining #dyingwell #death #life #deatheducation #doulagivers #hospice #hospicecare #hospicenurse #deathdoula #soulmidwife #deathmidwife #endoflifeplanning #healthcareproxy #funerals #fearofdeath #endoflifedoula #thegooddeath #hospice #grief #deathawareness #birth #endoflife #deathpositivity #consciousdying #dying #advanceplanning #deathpositive #gooddeath #consciousliving #endoflifedirective #palliativecare #advancedirective #livefully #suzannebobrien. #lifecafe #consciousness #awarenes

From Pharmacy Tech to Full Time End of Life Doula —How Following Your Calling is Priceless

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Michelle Donaldson.

Michelle Donaldson, a certified end-of-life doula from Doulagivers Institute, joins this episode of "Ask a Death Doula" to share her profound insights into hospice care. Her journey from advanced EMT and pharmacy technician to end-of-life doula reflects her deep commitment to holistic, dignified support. Inspired by her own parents’ hospice experiences, she now works with a dedicated hospice team in Las Vegas to blend non-medical guidance with traditional care, creating a more personal and transformative experience for patients and their families.

Education and empathy shine throughout our conversation as Michelle highlights the gaps families often face within the hospice system. She emphasizes the importance of preparing and supporting family caregivers—those who carry much of the emotional and physical load. Through her compassionate training, real-life stories, and collaboration with the hospice team, Michelle helps families navigate end-of-life challenges with confidence, connection, and cultural sensitivity. Her work shows the invaluable impact doulas can have in turning overwhelming moments into peaceful, meaningful memories—and she invites anyone drawn to this mission to join the growing movement of compassionate end-of-life support.

(00:02) The Role of End-of-Life Doulas
(05:20) Improving End-of-Life Care Through Education
(13:48) Making an Impact in End-of-Life Care
(20:11) Navigating End-of-Life Care Conversations
(24:07) Transforming End-of-Life Care Together
(37:00) Join the Death Doula Movement

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest: Michelle Donaldson

Website: Open Arms Doula

Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑
If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create the life you want by surrounding yourself with positivity and watching daily.  Click here to subscribe! ツ CONNECT WITH ME ツ
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Service is the New Success

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What if the true measure of success isn't found in material achievements but in aligning with your heart's purpose and serving others with love? Join us for an enlightening journey as we challenge traditional notions of success, drawing wisdom from those nearing the end of life. We share the story of transitioning from the routine disillusionment of nursing to uncovering profound peace and purpose within hospice care. This transformation reveals how following one's intuition and making heart-guided choices leads to genuine fulfillment. Our gratitude extends to Success Magazine for showcasing the Doulagivers Institute's mission and the impactful work we continue to do.

(00:02) Redefining Success Through Heart Alignment
(16:07) Legacy Through Love and Service

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Creating The New Earth: A Return to Heart Guidance

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What if the key to a fulfilled and regret-free life lies in embracing the present moment? Join us on a transformative journey as we unravel the profound shift from living in fear and ego to embodying love, unity, and heart guidance. We reflect on the invaluable wisdom shared by individuals at the end of their lives, urging us to transform mundane routines into privileges steeped in gratitude. By perceiving each day as a "little lifetime," we explore the power of presence and the realization that energy never ends but simply changes form—a perspective that reshapes how we approach daily life.

Our exploration continues with the vibrant and complex tapestry of life, as illustrated by the bustling backdrop of New York City. Discover how intentional living and choosing compassion over judgment can unlock entirely different realities based on our choices and awareness. We discuss the collective consciousness shift towards higher dimensions of understanding and connectivity, not only with humanity but with our planet and beyond. This episode delves into the essence of life as a frequency of love and service for all, and how practicing beingfulness allows us to respond to life's challenges with grace, fostering a community focused on collective well-being.

(00:02) Living in the Present Moment
(15:14) Awakening to a New Earth
(26:54) Awakening Universal Life Mastery Community

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here   Register for the ULM Masterclass: How to Access the "Joy of Being" November 20th at 7pm ET on Zoom here Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑
If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create the life you want by surrounding yourself with positivity and watching daily.  Click here to subscribe! ツ CONNECT WITH ME ツ
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Can Home Wakes Be The Answer To Traumatic Grief with Guest Lee Webster —Former President of the NHFA

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Lee Webster.

Have you ever considered the lost art of caring for our deceased loved ones personally? Lee Webster, a pioneer in end-of-life care, shares her profound insights into how society has shifted away from hands-on death care, and what we can do to reclaim these sacred practices. With her journey from a hospice volunteer to a leader in national end-of-life organizations, Lee unravels the layers of fear and distance created by modern funeral industry practices and public health concerns, encouraging us to rediscover the empowering aspects of home funerals and personalized rituals.

Journey with us as we explore the historical transformation of our approach to death and mourning, and how societal norms have distanced us from the deceased. Lee Webster argues that by reclaiming intimate acts, such as bathing our deceased, we not only honor them but also provide ourselves with an essential, cathartic outlet for grief. Discover how slowing down and creating meaningful rituals can lead to healthier mourning, turning a potentially traumatic period into one of emotional and spiritual reflection.

As we wrap up our conversation with Lee, the focus turns to the financial and environmental implications of modern funeral practices. By highlighting the benefits of natural burials, Lee emphasizes the importance of making informed, cost-effective choices that honor our loved ones while considering the planet's well-being. Through personal anecdotes and insights, we explore how families can create lasting memories with small, meaningful gestures, transforming the end-of-life process into an authentic, healing experience.

(00:02) Empowering Choices in End-of-Life Care
(07:41) The Sacred Practice of Caring
(12:39) Creating Meaningful End-of-Life Rituals
(21:43) Practical Aspects of End-of-Life Care
(27:56) Reclaiming Authentic End-of-Life Practices
(37:40) Revolutionizing End-of-Life Choices

⚡ Lifting The Lid Festival of Death and Dying (November 14-16, 2025) — Grab your tickets here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/liftingthelid/1853754

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Links mentioned in this episode:

National Home Funeral Alliance

End of Life Doula Alliance

Green Burial Council

Conservation Burial Alliance

Funeral Consumers Alliance

LIFTING THE LID Festival of Death and Dying Partnership Announced!!! Interview with founder of the festival —Jo Dagless!

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Jo Dagless.

How often do we pause to consider the profound connection between life and death? Our latest episode invites you to join us on a journey with Jo, a visionary in the arts and theater, who has transformed her encounters with grief into a global dialogue through the Lifting the Lid festival. Scheduled from November 14th to 16th, this festival has become an international beacon for open conversations about mortality, blending community engagement and digital innovation. Jo’s collaboration with funeral director Victoria Keen exemplifies a refreshing approach to death discussions, making them accessible and meaningful worldwide. As we navigate the delicate intersection of life and mortality, the episode reveals how embracing our finite existence can redirect our path toward growth, gratitude, and purpose.

The Lifting the Lid festival strives to restore death to its natural, sacred place in our lives, offering space to explore end-of-life choices through art, poetry, and dialogue. Its evolution into an inclusive event unites professionals, artists, and curious minds, moving away from traditional symbols to a more welcoming experience. With natural burials and home funerals gaining interest, the festival promotes compassionate choices that honor life’s fragility and wisdom. Listeners are encouraged to engage in these vital conversations, reclaim agency over how we live, die, and are remembered, and embrace the truth that every moment is precious.

⚡ Lifting The Lid Festival of Death and Dying (November 14-16, 2025) — Grab your tickets here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/liftingthelid/1853754

(00:02) Lifting the Lid Festival on Death
(08:06) Embracing Life
(13:14) Celebrating Diversity and Open Conversations
(20:26) Exploring End of Life Conversations
(33:08) Self-Care and End of Life Conversations
(37:28) Celebrating Life and Connection

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Jo Dagless

Executive Producer and Co-founder of Lifting the Lid International Festival of Death and Dying

LinkedIn: Jo Dagless

Instagram

FB Group: Lifting The Lid Festival of Death and Dying

When Persistence and Passion ARE the WIN! In Conversation when NYT Bestselling author John Kenney

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with John Kenney

What if embracing your vulnerabilities could be the key to unlocking your dreams? Join us as we welcome John, an inspiring writer whose remarkable journey from a copywriter to a published author in The New Yorker is a testament to the power of persistence and passion. John opens up about facing years of rejection and self-doubt before finding success, and how taking risks, like moving to France, transformed his path. His story is a powerful reminder that true fulfillment comes from the joy of pursuing what you love, not just from accolades.

We also explore life's deeper connections, revealing how understanding our mortality can enrich our appreciation for the present. Through heartfelt discussions about friendships, love, and the beauty of everyday moments, we consider the essence of living fully. This episode also introduces Bud Stanley, an obituary writer whose journey through attending strangers’ funerals offers profound insights into self-discovery and gratitude. Filled with thought-provoking reflections, this episode encourages listeners to embrace life's transitions and find peace in the simplicity of each moment.

(00:02) Journey to Becoming a Writer
(12:50) Reflections on Life and Death
(22:57) Exploring Life and Death Through Stories

Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest: John Kenney

New York Times Best-selling Author, longtime contributor to The New Yorker Magazine - Shouts & Murmurs

Instagram: @johnkenneywriter

Get a copy of his latest book here > I See You've Called in Dead: A Novel

What is a GOOD DEATH?

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What if embracing death could bring more meaning to life? Join us on a profound exploration into the concept of a "good death," where we unravel the practical and emotional dimensions often shrouded in fear. We tackle the age-old perception of death as a sacred rite of passage and invite listeners to redefine their relationship with life's inevitable end. Together, we establish personal benchmarks for quality of life—like recognizing loved ones, self-care, and mobility—that aid in making thoughtful decisions about end-of-life care. Reflect on what truly matters to you and how you can ensure your wishes are honored when it counts.

In a world where death is often viewed with trepidation, we propose a paradigm shift—seeing it as a sacred transition rather than a final bow. Hear the moving story of a man in the ICU whose perspective was transformed by a compassionate nurse, illustrating how death can be a beautiful rite of passage. This episode also shines a light on living a life aligned with your true calling, enriching both your journey and the world around you. We invite you to engage with the "When You Die Project" and the film "Saying Goodbye: Preparing for Death," exploring how to approach death with dignity and wisdom. Embrace this sacred journey with us, remembering that each life is an exquisite gift meant to be lived fully and meaningfully.

(00:02) Good Death Concept
(08:45) Embracing Death as a Sacred Experience
(23:23) Living a Fulfilling, Purposeful Life

👉 Saying Goodbye: Preparing for Death: Watch Chapter 2 in the When You Die Trilogy then attend the LIVE Q&A on October 19th at 6pm EST > Grab your tickets here! Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
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The GOOD DEATH BOOK Tour comes to Boise, Idaho!

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Unlock the secrets to navigating the profound journey of end-of-life care with insights from my 20 years of experience as a hospice and oncology nurse. You'll gain the tools needed to transform your perception of mortality from one of fear to acceptance, understanding death as a sacred rite of passage. By exploring the expansion of Doulagiver's Institute to Boise, Idaho, as part of the Good Death Book Tour, we emphasize the importance of planning and understanding the phases of end of life. Learn practical strategies like the three-question technique and appreciate the benefits of home wakes and funerals, empowering you to support loved ones through terminal diagnoses with compassion and grace.

Embrace a shift in societal attitudes towards death, recognizing it as a release from pain and an opportunity for healing. This episode highlights the upcoming Pacific Northwest and Boise events, including a Level One training session and a film screening of "Being Mortal," that underscore the necessity for compassionate care. We challenge conventional perceptions by drawing on insights from diverse cultures and religions, encouraging a life filled with gratitude and values alignment. Join us in this thought-provoking discussion, where we advocate for quality of life over mere longevity and highlight the profound impact of community support in the journey toward a good death.

(00:02) Expanding Doulagiver's Institute in Boise
(10:56) Shifting Perception on End of Life
(16:28) Launch and Events for Good Death

LIVE BOISE EVENTS:

OCTOBER 15th BOISE: Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training & Book Signing of THE GOOD DEATH October 15th Save Your Seat Here

OCTOBER 16th BEING MORTAL FILM SCREENING 4:00pm. Reserve your seat here

OCTOBER 18th THE GOOD DEATH BOISE BOOK SIGNING & Honoring Humanity Presentation with Suzanne B. O'Brien RN at Barnes & Noble Oct. 18th at 11am. Get tickets here

Join our next FREE Death Doula Discovery Webinar:

GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here   Please Share!   Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
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Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
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Talking to Children about Death: My Guardian Angel

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Jerry and Nya Chambless

How can a childhood friendship ignite a transformative cinematic journey? Join us as we sit down with a young filmmaker and her father to unpack the inspiring story behind their heartfelt film, shaped by the powerful bond with her friend. Through their intimate narrative, we promise you'll gain insight into how personal experiences are woven into storytelling, exploring themes of self-love, healing, and the profound impact of early connections. Discover the emotional depth of transforming real-life events into art, and learn how this journey of creation offers a medium for healing from the deep pains of loss and bullying.

In our conversation, we navigate the sensitive terrain of grief and storytelling's healing embrace, discussing how the film bravely addresses bullying and the silence surrounding it. This episode offers more than just a glimpse into the filmmaking process; it’s a call to action for compassion and inclusion, highlighting the importance of presence and understanding in life’s fragile moments. By sharing this young filmmaker's journey, we hope to inspire listeners to support a film that not only educates but also fosters a more caring and inclusive future generation

(00:02) Young Filmmaker Reflects on Friendship
(14:10) Healing Through Loss and Reflection
(20:03) Empowering Message

💜Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

Meet our guest:

Nya Chambless

Actress, Writer, & Director

Website: Nya Chambless

Facebook: My Guardian Angel Film

Instagram: @nyachambless_

What is Your legacy? How to Leave Your Story

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Darren Evans

What if technology could help us preserve the true essence of a life well-lived? In this episode, Darren Evans, creator of After Cloud, shares how his digital platform captures personal histories and legacies, especially in end-of-life care. Through powerful stories, like a hospice patient leaving video messages, Darren shows how digital storytelling bridges generations, deepens compassion, and empowers families to carry forward wisdom and traditions.

We also explore After Cloud’s unique approach to transforming memorial spaces into interactive experiences, allowing visitors to engage with the rich narratives of the deceased. From glow-in-the-dark QR codes on headstones to memorial benches that speak of lives once lived. Darren illustrates how technology can aid in grief transition and preserve legacies. This conversation invites us to reflect on what it means to have a “good death,” reminding us of the importance of cherishing everyday moments, being prepared, and leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

(00:04) Digital Life Storytelling for End-of-Life Care
(14:08) Connecting Generations Through Digital Storytelling
(21:35) The Future of Legacy Storytelling
(27:49) Exploring a Good Death Through Legacy

Join the waitlist for our Fall Live Semester

Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Darren Evans

CEO & Founder, After Cloud

LinkedIn: Darren Evans

Website: www.aftercloud.co.uk

ELEpisode List

Finding Purpose: From Death Doula Training to Community Educator for Ancora Hospice

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Karen Midlo

When Karen unexpectedly lost her husband, she embarked on a journey that reshaped her understanding of life and death, moving from her demanding role as an executive director in senior living during the COVID-19 pandemic to finding her true calling as a certified death doula and grief educator. In this episode, Karen shares her transformative experiences, showing how moments of deep challenge fueled her passion to support seniors and their families. Together, we navigate the complex landscape of end-of-life choices, including Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) and Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED), clarifying misconceptions and highlighting their significance. With an emphasis on clear communication and family support, we examine the impact of dementia on planning, drawing attention to valuable resources like the dementia toolkit from Compassion and Choices that help ensure informed, personalized decisions. Karen also reflects on the sacredness of end-of-life experiences, illustrating how, with the right education and support, these moments can shift from fearful to profoundly meaningful. Through her personal stories and dedication to community education, the episode underscores the importance of embracing conversations about death, concluding with gratitude for Karen’s invaluable contributions and anticipation for future discussions that will continue to illuminate the profound journey of life and its inevitable end.

(00:02) Finding Purpose in End of Life
(10:08) Exploring End-of-Life Choices and Planning
(18:18) Embracing Life and End-of-Life Education
(28:42) Empowering End-of-Life Education and Support
(38:16) End-of-Life Education and Support

Join the waitlist for our Fall Live Semester

Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Karen Midlo

End-of-Life Doula & Certified Grief Educator

Email: eoldoulakaren@gmail.com

Cell Phone: 281-910-3313

Website: endoflifedoulasid.doulagiverslegacyleaders.com

ELEpisode List

Experiencing "Moral Injury" In The Healthcare Profession - We Need To Do Better

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Jennifer A. O'Brien.

Discover the powerful journey of caregiving with Jennifer, a seasoned healthcare administrator with nearly 40 years of experience, whose personal losses and the tender care of her late husband, a hospice doctor battling cancer, shaped her profound perspective on end-of-life care. In this heartfelt conversation, Jennifer shares the wisdom behind her books The Hospice Doctor’s Widow and Care Boss, offering invaluable insights into the true meaning of presence during life’s most precious moments. Together, we explore the misunderstood nuances of hospice and palliative care, the importance of advanced care planning, and the moral challenges faced by healthcare professionals. This episode invites us to reframe death not as an adversary but as a natural part of life, empowering caregivers and families to lead with compassion, clarity, and courage in the face of life’s final chapter.

(00:02) Navigating the End-of-Life Care Journey
(13:01) Clarifying Hospice and Palliative Care
(27:41) Exploring Advanced Care Planning Options
(32:10) Empowering Caregivers Through Leadership and Vision

Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Jennifer A. O’Brien

Interim Healthcare CEO, Author

Website: www.jenniferaobrien.com
LinkedIn: Jennifer O'Brien
Facebook Group: Hospice Doctor's Widow - Jennifer A. O'Brien, MSOD
Instagram: @hospicedoctorswidow

Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
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Turning Grief Into Art: Elizabeth Coplan's Journey With Grief Dialogues

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Elizabeth Coplan.

Elizabeth, the visionary behind Grief Dialogues, shares her powerful journey from passionate theater lover to transformative voice in the conversation about grief and death. Born from personal loss and her love for the stage, her poignant 10-minute play became a festival favorite, proving the profound ability of storytelling to create safe, healing spaces for sharing grief. Her work boldly challenges society’s discomfort with mortality, encouraging open and honest dialogue about dying and end-of-life experiences. In exploring the tension between modern medicine’s life-prolonging advances and honoring individual wishes, Elizabeth reframes death as a sacred rite of passage rather than something to fear. Now, as Grief Dialogues nears its 10th anniversary, she unveils plans for a groundbreaking immersive theatrical experience at the 2026 Edinburgh Fringe Festival—an emotional journey through grief that reveals the beauty, love, and deep human connection that can emerge in life’s final chapters.

(00:01) Creating Grief Dialogues
(07:03) Exploring Death and Grief Through Creativity

Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Elizabeth Coplan

Founder of Grief Dialogues

Website: www.griefdialogues.com
LinkedIn: Grief Dialogues
Facebook Group: Grief Dialogues
Instagram: @grief.dialogue

Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
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Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
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The Caregiver Crisis: Can This One Question Change That?

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What does it truly mean to live well as we approach the end of life?

In this powerful episode of the Good Death Podcast, we explore what it truly means to live well as we approach the end of life. Inspired by personal stories—from a grandmother’s courageous final months to families navigating the emotional toll of dementia—we confront the hard truths about caregiving, medical overreach, and the need for compassionate planning. With over 54 million caregivers in the U.S. often left unsupported, this episode emphasizes the importance of community, education, and tools like the dementia advanced directive. We also spotlight transformative choices like VSED (Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking) and the vital role of end-of-life doulas in restoring dignity and humanity to our final chapter. This is not just a conversation about death—it’s an invitation to live more consciously, with purpose, empathy, and courage.

(00:05) Caregiver Crisis and Quality of Life
(15:47) Power of Planning for Dementia Care
(20:43) Planning for Dementia Advanced Directives
(28:13) Empowering Choices in Dementia Care

Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here   Get The Dementia Advance Directive below Click here Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
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Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE   This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
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Healing with Heart: A New Vision for Hospice

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Dr. Karen Wyatt.

Renowned expert Dr. Karen Wyatt joins us for a profound conversation on end-of-life care, sharing lessons learned from her work with hospice patients and urging us to embrace the inevitability of death with awareness and gratitude. We delve into the missed opportunities for meaningful dialogue within medical systems, the tension between profit-driven hospice models and the deeply personal nature of dying, and the need for better community training to prepare families for what hospice truly provides. Drawing on Dr. Ira Byock’s white paper, we examine solutions to systemic issues like fraud, inadequate staffing, and the disconnect between corporate priorities and compassionate care. Together, we explore how compassion, forgiveness, and holistic practices can transform how we care for the dying, reminding us that presence, understanding, and the body’s natural capacity to heal deserve a central place in healthcare’s future.

(00:02) Transforming End-of-Life Care in America
(10:03) Revamping End-of-Life Care System
(13:57) Improving End-of-Life Care System
(24:55) Embracing Healing Through Compassion and Forgiveness
(35:31) Exploring End-of-Life Care Perspectives

Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Dr. Karen Wyatt

Founder, End-of-Life University

Best-selling Author

Website: eulopodcast.com
FB: End-of-Life University

Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
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Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
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Why End-of-Life Planning is the Key to a Good Death

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Reena Lazar.

Imagine finding unexpected peace in facing mortality—and letting that awareness transform the way you live right now. In this episode, Reena shares her remarkable journey from surviving a life-changing car accident at sixteen to becoming a pioneer in end-of-life education and co-founding Willow with Michelle Pante, a groundbreaking platform reshaping how we talk about and prepare for death. Together, they champion a pay-what-you-feel approach to workshops that empower people to plan ahead, downsize, and leave behind a final legacy of love and ease for those they cherish. Reena’s experiences, including her eye-opening peace work in Israel and Palestine, reveal how compassion, courage, and community can help us dismantle fear and embrace life with radical gratitude. This conversation invites you to discover how facing death can awaken you to what really matters—connection, forgiveness, and living with purpose before your time is up.

(00:02) Exploring End-of-Life Education and Awareness
(08:49) Navigating End-of-Life Planning and Downsizing
(19:49) Fostering Compassion Through Connection
(27:17) Embracing Life Through End-of-Life Work

Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Reena Lazar

Owner and Managing Director, Willow EOL Education & Planning

Website: www.willoweol.com
LinkedIn: Willow End of Life Education and Planning
Facebook Group: willoweol
Instagram: @willoweol
YouTube: WillowEoL

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Transformative Care: Supporting Veterans in Their Final Journey

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Dr. Qwynn Galloway-Salazar.

In this powerful episode, we follow Qwynn Galloway-Salazar’s inspiring path from new death doula to mentor and advocate for veterans, showing how one person’s courage to follow their heart can transform countless lives. From her first moment of sharing her passion on Dr. Karen Wyatt’s podcast to partnering with Suzanne O’Brien, Qwynn illuminates the unique struggles veterans face, from the invisible wounds of PTSD to the deep need for presence and forgiveness at the end of life. Through personal reflections and stories, we’re reminded that while resources matter, it’s the compassion of communities and the simple act of showing up that truly heal. This episode calls on us all to reimagine end-of-life care for veterans, embracing opportunities to offer understanding, support, and the transformative gift of peace.

(00:02) Supporting Veterans at the End
(06:44) Supporting Veterans Through Trauma
(19:58) Healing Veterans Through Forgiveness and Presence
(30:00) Elevating End of Life Care

Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Dr. Qwynn Galloway-Salazar

Founder — In Their Honor, LLC (ITH)

Website: intheirhonor.info
Facebook: qwynn.salazar
Instagram: @qgsalazar
LinkedIn: Dr. Qwynn Galloway-Salazar

Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
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Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
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Caring for a Loved One with Dementia? This Information can Change Everything

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Krista Montague, CDP, AT-BC.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Krista Montague—dementia care specialist and founder of Dementia Success Path—to unpack the complexities of dementia and Alzheimer’s, from understanding the differences and stages to recognizing early signs and managing challenging behaviors with compassion. Krista shares practical strategies for de-escalation, emphasizes the powerful role of community support for overwhelmed caregivers, and explains how genetics and lifestyle intersect in Alzheimer’s risk, offering hope through prevention and healthy habits. She also highlights the urgent need for legal and financial planning after diagnosis, including setting up powers of attorney and living trusts to safeguard families. This conversation is a reassuring guide for anyone touched by dementia, reminding us that no one has to face this journey alone.

(00:02) Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer's
(10:26) Recognizing Early Signs of Dementia
(15:20) Legal and Financial Planning for Dementia
(22:10) Managing Challenging Behaviors in Dementia
(27:52) Understanding Challenging Behaviors in Dementia
(35:50) Navigating Reality in Dementia Care
(39:10) Caregiving for Late-Stage Dementia Patients
(44:32) Supporting Dementia Caregivers

Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Krista Montague, CDP, AT-BC

Founder, Dementia Success Path

Website: dementiasuccesspath.com
Caregiver Mental Health Cheatsheet - Click Here!
Facebook Group: Dementia Caregiver Support & Activities for Challenging Behaviors Community
Private group
Instagram: @dementiasuccesspath
YouTube: Dementia Success Path

Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
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Reimagining The Funeral Industry with The Modern Mortician

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:30:00 -0500

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Melissa Meadow.

What if everything you thought you knew about funerals was wrong? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Melissa Meadow, also known as The Modern Mortician, to uncover the truth behind the funeral industry. With nearly 30 years of experience, Melissa shares her journey into eco-friendly and transparent death care, challenging outdated traditions and exposing common misconceptions. She breaks down the history of embalming, the marketing myths that drive costly decisions, and the rise of sustainable alternatives. Through her work and influential social media presence, Melissa empowers families to make informed, ethical choices and create meaningful, personalized farewells that truly honor their loved ones.

(00:02) Redefining the Funeral Industry
(14:45) Navigating the Funeral Industry Marketing
(19:25) Alternative Funeral Options and Practices
(27:53) Honoring Life Through Rituals and Grief
(38:58) Exploring Green End-of-Life Options
(47:26) Building a Positive Change Together

Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

Meet our guest:

Melissa Meadow

The Modern Mortician

Website: www.themodernmortician.com
IG: the_modern_mortician
FB: The Modern Mortician
TikTok: the_modern_mortician

Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑
If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create the life you want by surrounding yourself with positivity and watching daily. Click here to subscribe! ツ CONNECT WITH ME ツ
Leave a comment on this video and it'll get a response. Or you can connect with me on different social platforms too:

The Elder Care Crisis: Are we ready?

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:30:00 -0500

The elder care crisis is here—are you ready?
In this episode of The Good Death Podcast, Suzanne B. O’Brien RN shares a powerful story from the frontlines of care, explores why most families are unprepared, and introduces the Living Well Aging Plans (Plan A, B & C) to help you plan ahead with confidence.
📘 Join the free Good Death Book Club to keep learning: TheGoodDeathBook.com 00:23 Understanding the Fear of Death
01:44 The Elder Care Crisis
02:11 Marsha's Story: A Case Study
06:07 The Growing Aging Population
09:21 Planning for Aging: Plan A, B, and C Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker?
Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe:
Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑
If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create the life you want by surrounding yourself with positivity and watching daily. Click here to subscribe! ツ CONNECT WITH ME ツ
Leave a comment on this video and it'll get a response. Or you can connect with me on different social platforms too:

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID): What You Need to Know Before Making This Choice

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What if your end-of-life journey could be as dignified and peaceful as possible?

Guided by my two decades of experience as a hospice and oncology nurse, I invite you to a candid conversation about Medical Aid in Dying (MAID), also known as Physician Assisted Death or Death with Dignity. This discussion aims to demystify the process, highlighting the distinction from euthanasia and exploring why some individuals find solace in choosing this path. With stringent criteria including a terminal illness prognosis of six months or less and the patient's ability to self-administer medication, MAID represents a complex yet empowering option for those facing the end of life.

We also navigate the wider landscape of end-of-life choices, shedding light on alternatives like palliative sedation and voluntarily stopping eating and drinking (VSED). Each offers its own pathway to maintaining dignity and control during life's final chapter. The pivotal role of a death doula is discussed, emphasizing thoughtful planning and emotional support. For those contemplating MAID, critical questions are posed to encourage reflection on fears, options, and the necessity of spiritual and emotional support. This episode is designed to empower you with knowledge, enabling informed and personal decisions free from external pressure.

We dive into:

00:00 Introduction to the Good Death Podcast 00:39 Understanding Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) 04:14 Legal Aspects and Criteria for MAID 05:56 Reasons People Choose MAID 08:19 Addressing Fears and Concerns 13:31 Alternative End-of-Life Options 15:57 The Role of Doulas and Support Systems 17:00 Making Informed Decisions 21:47 Invitation to the Good Death Book Club 23:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts If you found this podcast helpful, please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead.

Register for FREE to learn more: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE
GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Christine Caldwell

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Unlock the secrets to transforming end-of-life care with the healing power of psychedelics.

Join us in a thought-provoking conversation with Christine Caldwell, the visionary behind End of Life Psychedelic Care. Christine shares her incredible journey from meditative practices and a fascination with quantum mechanics to pioneering the use of psychedelics in easing the fear of death. The episode sheds light on her profound experiences in home health care and the pivotal role her son played in steering her towards this fulfilling and impactful path.

Our exploration doesn't stop there. We also navigate the fascinating landscape of psychedelic therapy and neuroscience, highlighting groundbreaking research from institutions like UCLA and NYU. Discover how substances like psilocybin and MDMA are offering hope and relief to those grappling with end-of-life anxiety and depression. We delve into the neurobiological mechanisms at play, examining how these substances can profoundly alter our brain's response to fear and stress, enabling a more peaceful transition. Christine shares insights from pioneering studies and discusses the resurgence of interest in psychedelic research that promises a brighter future for end-of-life care.

In a world where the spiritual and the scientific intertwine, this episode unravels the spiritual insights that psychedelics can offer. Through compelling stories and recent surveys, we emphasize the compassionate connections formed between caregivers and those at the threshold of life. From the critical role of end-of-life doulas to a moving story of a ketamine program pilot, we celebrate how psychedelics foster deep peace, love, and understanding even in the face of terminal illness. This conversation magnifies the ongoing journey of providing holistic, meaningful care at the end of life, and invites listeners to witness the powerful transformation that compassionate care and psychedelics can bring.

We dive into:

(00:00) Psychedelic Care at End of Life
(08:17) Psychedelic Therapy and Neuroscience Insights
(16:39) Spiritual Insights in Psychedelic Therapy
(30:40) Psychedelic Care for End-of-Life
(37:35) Compassionate End-of-Life Care Discussion

If you found this podcast helpful, please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Meet our guest:

Christine Caldwell

Founder and Executive Director, End of Life Psychedelic Care
https://www.eolpc.org
christine@eolpc.org

Christine is the founder of End of Life Psychedelic Care, a nonprofit organization grounded in the principle that safe and supported psychedelic care can help transform the death and dying journey.
She is the Co-Chair for the Dying Well Initiative, a part of the Global Wellness Institute and a graduate of the Psychedelics Today Vital Therapies and Integration Program.
Christine is also the former owner of a Sarasota-based 250-client home health care agency.

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and Doulagivers Institute is giving you for both for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now!
FREE Doulagivers Institute On-Demand Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Grief Today and How You Can Heal It

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Years ago, I stood beside countless patients in the hospital, overwhelmed by the harsh realities and often unmet emotional needs at the end of life.

It was during this time that the profound importance of open conversations about death began to unfold before me. Now, as a death doula, I invite you to join a transformative journey towards understanding grief, preparing for life's end, and embracing the sacredness of these inevitable experiences. Together, we'll explore how shifting our perspectives can change not only how we approach death, but how we live our lives with more intention and purpose.

In this enlightening episode of the Ask a Death Doula podcast, we unravel the complexities of grief and its profound impact on our emotional and spiritual well-being. We touch on essential topics such as discussing death with children and the healing power of practices like gratitude and meditation. Our conversations reveal that while grief is a deeply personal journey, its trajectory can be altered by understanding and embracing the emotions it brings. By recognizing grief as a non-linear process, we can begin to heal from past pain and create new traditions to honor those we've lost.

The episode also underscores the importance of self-care in the grieving process, urging us to listen to our bodies and emotions. We discuss societal myths around grief and the inadequate support systems, such as limited bereavement leave, that often hinder healing. This is the 12th and last installment of the Good Death Seminar Series. We highlight the transformative power of education in shifting our relationship with grief. We aim to foster a healthier perspective on death and life, one that encourages open dialogue, understanding, and ultimately, peace.

We dive into:

(00:00) Healing Grief and Talking to Children
(11:54) New Perspectives on Grief and Bereavement
(21:57) Navigating Grief and Healing Process
(28:34) Navigating Societal Myths on Grief
(42:39) Embracing Self-Care in Grief
(49:05) Honoring Loved Ones Through New Traditions
(57:21) Practicing Forgiveness and Healing Journey
(01:06:15) Teaching Children About Death
(01:15:25) Healing Grief Through Truth About Death

If you found this podcast helpful, please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and Doulagivers Institute is giving you for both for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now!
FREE Doulagivers Institute On-Demand Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Keeping Death Green: New Burial Options for Body Disposition

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What if your final farewell could honor both your legacy and the planet?

Welcome to an insightful exploration of the 11th installment of the Good Death Seminar Series, where we unpack the concept of "Keeping Death Green." Together, we explore how technological and medical advancements have transformed our perceptions of death, often veering away from its sacred nature. By revisiting historical perspectives and highlighting the gaps in contemporary hospice care, we aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of life's final chapters.

What does it mean to choose environmentally conscious end-of-life options? We dive into this critical topic by comparing traditional funerals with more sustainable alternatives like natural burials, water cremation, and human composting. We share invaluable insights into how these practices not only reflect personal and spiritual values but also contribute to environmental stewardship. We discuss the economic and ecological benefits of these greener options, inspiring listeners to consider the legacy they'd like to leave behind. From reducing carbon footprints to supporting biodiversity, these choices empower individuals to honor their loved ones while caring for the planet.

Lastly, we touch on the profound impact of body donation and other earth-friendly burial practices. By exploring the societal and personal implications of these choices, we highlight their role in medical education and environmental preservation. Our conversation stresses the importance of communicating end-of-life wishes and choosing reputable programs, ensuring that one's final act serves a greater purpose. We wrap up by reflecting on the sacredness of life and death, urging listeners to embrace the opportunities for growth and transformation that they present. Join us in reimagining the end-of-life journey as a meaningful transition that respects both our humanity and the earth.

We dive into:

(00:00) Global Check-In
(07:59) Green End-of-Life Burial Options
(17:04) Eco-Friendly Burial Options Discussion
(25:50) Eco-Friendly Burial Options Comparison
(41:02) End-of-Life Planning and Donation Options
(47:01) The Sacredness of End of Life

If you found this podcast helpful, please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and Doulagivers Institute is giving you for both for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now!
FREE Doulagivers Institute On-Demand Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

What are Home Wakes/Home Funerals? What is a FUNeral? All The Benefits and how to have them.

Tue, 27 May 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What happens when society loses touch with the sacred process of dying?

Discover the transformative insights as we explore the “rebirth of death” and its significance. With Suzanne O’Brien, a dedicated registered nurse with more than two decades in hospice and oncology care, uncover the forgotten truths of end-of-life processes, the gaps in hospice care, and the profound impact of embracing death with understanding and appreciation. Get ready to challenge modern perceptions and embrace a holistic approach to end-of-life care.

Suzanne O’Brien's mission is to empower family caregivers through practical education, and in this episode, she shares how her three-phase training program has reached over 369,000 people. Learn about the emotional and financial benefits of home wakes and funerals, and the inspiring potential of transforming traditional farewells into celebrations of life. Suzanne advocates for a positive end of life as a human right and invites listeners to engage in healing conversations about end-of-life care that can ease the burdens of grief.

Join us as we spotlight the revival of home funerals and the unique concept of living wakes, offering a heartfelt alternative to conventional rituals. Discover the empowerment found in writing a first-person eulogy and legacy messages that echo love and gratitude, ensuring our memory continues to resonate with loved ones. Celebrate life’s journey and the legacy we leave behind in this enlightening episode.

We dive into:

(00:00) The Rebirth of Death Seminar
(11:41) Empowering Family Caregivers in End-of-Life
(16:55) The Revival of Home Funerals
(28:53) Celebrating Life With Living Wakes
(35:19) Personal Touch in First Person Eulogies
(51:07) Expressing Love and Legacy Messages

If you found this podcast helpful, please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and Doulagivers Institute is giving you for both for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now!
FREE Doulagivers Institute On-Demand Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The 3 Most Common End-of-Life Phenomena Reported Worldwide: Is There Something More?

Tue, 20 May 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What if death isn't the end, but a sacred transition filled with profound experiences?

In this chapter of our Good Death Seminar Series titled "The 3 Most Common End-of-Life Phenomena Reported Worldwide: Is There Something More?", we explore the mysteries surrounding end-of-life phenomena, drawing from decades of experience in hospice and oncology care. As we unpack the three most common end-of-life events, such as the surge of energy and visions of loved ones, we aim to reshape the conversation around death, transforming it from one of fear to one of understanding and acceptance.

Join us as we share heartfelt stories of patients who have experienced remarkable moments at the end of their life journey. From Patricia's sudden clarity and joy in her final hours to children who speak of spiritual visitors, these narratives reveal the deep connections and transitions that occur during this sacred time. Through these experiences, we challenge the notion of dying alone, highlighting the shared nature of these phenomena and the comfort they bring to both the dying and their loved ones.

Together, we'll discuss how to create a nurturing environment for those nearing the end of life, emphasizing the importance of presence, silence, and respect. Whether you're a caregiver, family member, or curious soul, this episode offers a compassionate lens on life's final chapter, encouraging openness and heart-centered conversations.

We dive into:

(00:00) Good Death Seminar Series
(04:57) Reclaiming the Sacredness of Death
(12:29) Heart Guidance vs. Ego Guidance
(23:37) End of Life Phenomena
(31:02) Signs of Waiting in End-of-Life
(46:29) Visions of Loved Ones Before Death
(49:47) Dying Wisdom and Shared Experiences
(01:02:19) Facilitating Sacred Transitions in End-of-Life
(01:10:41) Book Release and Special Offer Announcement
(01:22:22) Pre-Ordering and Supporting Loved Ones
(01:38:00) Global Unity and Gratitude

If you found this podcast helpful, please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and Doulagivers Institute is giving you for both for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now!
FREE Doulagivers Institute On-Demand Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

What Does a Death Doula Do?

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Revolutionizing End-of-Life Care: The Vital Role of Death Doulas

Role of a death doula: a non-medical professional dedicated to providing holistic support to patients and their families through the end-of-life journey. We'll explore the multifaceted care death doulas offer, from emotional and spiritual support to physical and informational guidance. Listen in as we discuss the shortcomings of current hospice care structures, the critical need for better training for family caregivers, and how death doulas bridge these gaps by ensuring comprehensive end-of-life care. We also highlight the importance of recognizing death as a human experience rather than merely a medical event and how education on end-of-life care can empower families.

In this episode, we also address the challenges faced by hospice nurses and the significant role of death doulas in enhancing the quality of daily living for patients and their families. Discover the profound life lessons learned from working with the dying, such as the value of time, presence, compassion, and forgiveness. We'll delve into the specific roles and responsibilities of death doulas, including creating a sacred space during the vigil period and offering emotional support and guidance without providing medical or legal advice. If you're interested in learning more about this meaningful profession, don't miss our upcoming Death Doula Discovery Webinar. Secure your seat and join us for a deeper understanding of how death doulas are revolutionizing end-of-life care.

We dive into:

(00:02) What Does a Death Doula Do?
(06:34) Revolutionizing End-of-Life Care With Death Doulas
(20:11) Roles and Responsibilities of Death Doulas

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Doulagivers Institute
The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
FREE Doulagivers Institute Death Doula Discovery Webinar - Friday, April 17th 2025 @ 7:00PM CST
Doulagivers Spring 2025 Live Semester Waitlist - Join the Waitlist
Buy The Good Death Book

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series #8 - What To Do When Families Do Not Agree on End-of-Life Care For a Loved One

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Unlock the secrets to navigating end-of-life care with empathy and clarity in our latest episode of the Ask a Death Doula podcast.

Suzanne O'Brien invites you to explore the profound yet practical aspects of caring for loved ones in their final stages of life. From understanding advanced directives and dementia-specific care planning to addressing the emotional labyrinth of family dynamics, this episode is packed with insights to help you honor your loved ones' wishes and navigate these challenging conversations with confidence.

Join us as we share heartfelt stories from caregivers and hospice professionals around the globe, highlighting the universal challenges and emotional tolls of end-of-life care. Discover strategies to prevent caregiver burnout and learn how to support both yourself and your loved ones through this journey. We'll guide you through practical self-care techniques and emphasize the importance of community and open communication in reducing family conflicts and ensuring everyone's needs are met.

Through poignant storytelling and expert guidance, this episode offers a compassionate approach to understanding death as a sacred and natural part of life. We delve into the increasing prevalence of dementia and the vital importance of proactive care planning to prepare for an aging population. Whether you're a caregiver, family member, or simply curious about end-of-life care, this episode promises to empower you with the knowledge and support needed to embrace a "good death" for yourself and those you love. Join us, and transform your perspective on life and death with kindness, education, and support.

Mark your calendars!

On March 22nd, I’m hosting a private virtual event to celebrate "THE GOOD DEATH," and I want YOU to join me.

Pre-order the book today, and you’ll get exclusive access to a full day of training, conversation about what makes life an AMAZING journey. I will share my 5 pillar framework that I use every day, to create a life of fulfillment, joy and service- and you can too!

I can’t wait to share this journey with you. Grab your ticket here!

We dive into:

(00:01) End of Life Care and Decisions
(06:17) Understanding Advanced Directives and Dementia
(20:32) Family Caregiving for Elderly Relatives
(24:25) Preventing Caregiver Burnout
(36:52) Caregiver Self-Care and Regrets
(50:36) Child Hospice Care and Burnout Prevention
(59:01) Navigating Family Conflict in End-of-Life Care
(01:08:23) Planning for End-of-Life Care
(01:13:38) Navigating End-of-Life Care Challenges

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series #7 - How to Have a Family Conversation About Your End-of-Life Wishes- and Why this is One of the GREATEST Gifts You Could Ever Give to Them

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What if planning for the end of life could be one of the greatest gifts you give your loved ones?

As your host, Suzanne O'Brien, I unravel the complexities of end-of-life conversations, inviting a global audience from Canada to Thailand to join this critical dialogue. Together, we confront the challenges often associated with discussing end-of-life wishes, offering practical insights to help families navigate these sensitive discussions with empathy and understanding. Through powerful narratives and expert advice, we aim to transform these conversations from fear-inducing to empowering, ensuring that personal quality of life preferences are clearly communicated and respected.

Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we explore the significance of advance directives and the peace of mind they bring to both individuals and their families. Sharing a touching story about the complications that arise in their absence, we highlight the necessity of proactive planning. Emphasizing the importance of comfort, dignity, and cultural considerations, we provide guidance on how to ensure your end-of-life decisions align with your values and beliefs. With openness and compassion, we encourage listeners to engage in these conversations, highlighting the profound impact of having one's wishes documented and understood.

Creating a supportive environment for end-of-life planning is crucial, and we delve into innovative approaches like the "death cafe" concept to foster open dialogue. By setting specific dates for family meetings, utilizing tools like video calls, and involving loved ones in the process, we advocate for a comprehensive strategy that normalizes and celebrates the natural cycle of life. Join us for an enlightening session that not only educates but inspires, as we collectively embrace the sacred act of planning for a "good death" that honors and respects our deepest wishes.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

Mark your calendars!

On March 22nd, I’m hosting a private virtual event to celebrate "THE GOOD DEATH," and I want YOU to join me.

I can’t wait to share this journey with you. Grab your ticket here!

We dive into:

(00:00) - The Good Death Seminar Series (13:52) - End-of-Life Decision Making Guidance (21:25) - Advance Directives and End-of-Life Wishes (31:52) - Comfortable End-of-Life Conversations (41:21) - Family Dynamics and End-of-Life Wishes (44:52) - Exploring End-of-Life Conversations and Planning (54:31) - Family Conversation on End-of-Life Wishes

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series #6 - How to Ensure the BEST End-of-life Experience for Yourself and the 9 Essential Questions You NEED to Answer

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What does it take to ensure a "good death"?

Join us as we explore this profound question with our esteemed guest, Susanna Bryan, a transformative figure in end-of-life care. Drawing from her rich experiences as a former hospice and oncology nurse, and founder of the Doula Givers Institute, Susanna offers enlightening insights into making the end-of-life experience more human-centered. Inspired by her volunteer work in Zimbabwe, she advocates for changes in the American system to focus on clarity, comfort, and dignity, and shares the nine essential questions that guide this process. Her journey underscores the importance of presence and a supportive community for those nearing life's end and provides a roadmap to align end-of-life experiences with personal values.

This episode delves into the delicate task of discussing end-of-life wishes with loved ones, focusing on maintaining quality of life and ensuring wishes are respected. We recount the heartfelt story of Mary, who faced terminal cancer with grace and celebrated her life through a living funeral. Mary's journey is a testament to the power of prioritizing personal comfort and symptom management over medical interventions. We also explore the role of palliative care in enhancing quality of life, encouraging listeners to consider practical, physical, and emotional preparations for future decisions.

Listeners are invited to consider their own end-of-life care preferences, from choosing a healthcare proxy to exploring environmentally friendly body disposition options. We highlight the significance of legal documents like the POLST form in ensuring wishes are followed and emphasize the value of clear communication with family. As we explore alternative end-of-life celebrations, such as body donation and living funerals, we encourage embracing personal choice to honor life and death. By empowering you with knowledge and confidence, this episode aims to make end-of-life planning a meaningful and sacred gift for both you and your loved ones.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

Mark your calendars!

On March 22nd, I’m hosting a private virtual event to celebrate "THE GOOD DEATH," and I want YOU to join me.

I can’t wait to share this journey with you. Grab your ticket here!

We dive into:

(00:00) - Good Death Seminar Series (10:00) - End-of-Life Care and Planning Discussion" (20:11) - Quality of Life and Care Planning (25:48) - Personalized End-of-Life Care Preferences (36:23) - End-of-Life Care Planning Choices (46:52) - Home Funeral and Disposition Options (52:32) - Body Donation and End-of-Life Celebrations (59:50) - Ensuring Legal Medical Preferences

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series #5 - What Quality of Life Means to You and Why This Should Be The Benchmark For How You Choose to Move Forward

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What if the end of life was not something to fear, but an opportunity to celebrate personal values and make informed choices?

Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as we promise to guide you through this transformative perspective shift in our Good Death Seminar Series. This episode sheds light on the importance of quality of life over mere life extension, underscoring death as a sacred rite of passage that deserves our respect and careful consideration. We delve into historical and cultural perspectives on death, offering insights to enrich your understanding of life itself.

Drawing on my extensive experience as a hospice and oncology nurse, we explore the significance of quality of life when facing serious illnesses. The discussion highlights the importance of advanced directives and healthcare proxies, emphasizing how these tools can empower individuals to make decisions aligned with their personal values. Real-life stories illustrate the profound impact of informed choices on end-of-life experiences, while practical guidance on symptom management and critical diagnosis questions ensure you and your loved ones can navigate these challenging times with confidence and clarity.

We also explore the critical role of communication and advocacy in medical settings, especially when confronting critical diagnoses. Discover how sharing experiences and having a third-party advocate, such as an elder care doula, can transform an overwhelming situation into an empowering journey. By fostering open conversations and planning ahead, you can ensure that end-of-life wishes are honored, turning what is often a difficult subject into a meaningful dialogue. Join us as we seek to inspire change, drawing on the wisdom of those at the end of life who remind us that presence and understanding are the greatest gifts we can offer.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

Mark your calendars!

On March 22nd, I’m hosting a private virtual event to celebrate "THE GOOD DEATH," and I want YOU to join me.

I can’t wait to share this journey with you. Grab your ticket here!

We dive into:

(00:00) Good Death Seminar Series Overview
(06:00) Quality of Life Seminar Series Recap
(14:22) Choosing Quality of Life Over Cure
(22:21) Critical Diagnosis
(37:14) Advocacy and Education in Health Choices
(44:07) Empowering Decision Making Through Communication

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series #4 - What is a Healthcare Proxy, the Incorrect verbiage being used and how do I choose one?

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Have you ever wondered how a healthcare proxy can impact your end-of-life planning?

As a devoted hospice and oncology nurse, I've witnessed firsthand the profound importance of choosing the right person to voice your medical wishes. Embark on this journey with me as I share heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking stories that reveal the true essence of a healthcare proxy and how it differs from a financial power of attorney. By the time we're done, you'll have gained invaluable insight into selecting someone who can ensure your journey concludes with dignity and peace.

Understanding the terminology around healthcare proxies can often feel like navigating a labyrinth. Terms like healthcare surrogate and healthcare agent might sound confusing, but each has a specific role in safeguarding your medical preferences. Drawing from over two decades of experience and memorable moments from around the globe, including a life-changing trip to Zimbabwe, I unravel these complexities. For those without an obvious choice, learn about innovative solutions like doula giver healthcare proxy mixers and support groups that help you make these crucial decisions.

The episode doesn't just stop at education—it’s a call to prepare and act. With the launch of the Good Death book, you have a chance to delve deeper into the art of living and dying well. I also invite you to a live masterclass where you can expand your understanding and engage with others on this journey. Join us and transform the way you approach end-of-life planning, ensuring that your wishes are honored, and your loved ones spared unnecessary distress.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:00) Choosing a Healthcare Proxy
(10:51) Understanding Healthcare Proxy Terminology
(21:54) Selecting a Healthcare Proxy Wisely
(31:58) Exploring Healthcare Proxy Options
(45:03) Announcing Good Death Book Launch Event

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series #3

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Unlock the secrets to a more peaceful and prepared end-of-life experience with insights from our latest session in the Good Death Seminar series.

As a hospice and oncology nurse, I draw from my extensive experience to transform the fear and chaos surrounding death into an opportunity for growth and understanding. You'll learn how to have essential end-of-life conversations that not only honor loved ones but also teach us valuable lessons about truly living. Discover how the Good Death Movement is reshaping societal perceptions and inspiring a more meaningful appreciation for life.

Our discussion delves into the importance of having advanced directive conversations with family and friends, ensuring that end-of-life wishes are respected and documented. Through poignant stories, such as that of Mrs. Murphy, we highlight the potential heartbreak and conflict that arise from avoiding these critical discussions. Learn about the role of certified end-of-life doulas and the significance of legal documents like advanced directives and the POLST form in making your wishes known and legally recognized.

Join us as we explore advanced directives' profound impact on families and medical professionals, offering peace of mind and clear guidance for those difficult decisions. We emphasize the need for proactive communication and preparation to bridge gaps in care and prevent misunderstandings. By participating in our movement, you contribute to a cultural shift in how society views death, fostering conversations that lead to a more serene and dignified end-of-life journey for all.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:00) Good Death Seminar Series Introduction
(06:22) The Importance of End-of-Life Planning
(20:07) Family Advanced Directive Discussion Comfort Level
(25:12) Advance Directive Importance and Preparation
(31:06) Advanced Directive Benefits and Challenges
(35:47) Advanced Directives and Legal Considerations
(45:06) The Importance of the Pulse Form
(57:04) Good Death Book Purchase Instructions
(01:10:51) Good Death Book Bonuses and Certification
(01:23:43) Initiating Conversations on End-of-Life Care
(01:32:28) The Good Death Movement Conclusion

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series #2

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 04:30:00 -0500

How prepared are you to support a loved one at the end of life?

This is a question many avoid but is crucial for everyone to consider. In the Good Death Seminar Series, we equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the journey of end-of-life care. We begin by sharing personal stories that illustrate the transformative power of being educated and empowered in this role. Together, we'll explore the history and purpose of hospice care, the impact of Medicare, and critical questions you should ask when selecting a hospice provider. Our goal is to make a meaningful difference, even if it helps just one person find peace and positivity in challenging times.

As we continue, we confront the challenges posed by the rising number of for-profit hospices, questioning how profit-driven motives might affect the quality of care. Through poignant narratives like Mr. Penn's, we expose systemic gaps and the urgent need for patient-centered care. By reflecting on the invaluable contributions of hospice workers, we advocate for a renewed focus on collaboration to ensure dignified and supportive end-of-life experiences. With discussions on pain management, advanced directive documents, and the essential role families play, we aim to empower you with the tools needed for informed decision-making.

Finally, we underscore the importance of seeing death not just as a medical event but as a profound human experience. Inspired by the wisdom of Cicely Saunders, we discuss how education, kindness, and support can restore the sacredness of both life and death. You'll discover resources like the Good Death, Good Life Masterclass and the Confident Caregiver Course, designed to equip you with essential skills for compassionate care. By preparing for the end of life, we not only enhance our daily experiences and relationships but also empower ourselves to live fully and without regrets.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:01) - Understanding Hospice Care Seminar Series

(11:49) - Challenges of for-Profit Hospice Care

(20:25) - Addressing Gaps in End-of-Life Care

(27:29) - Enhancing End-of-Life Care Support

(40:27) - Empowering Families in End-of-Life Care

(43:45) - Key Questions for Hospice Care

(47:50) - The Good Death Movement Opportunity

(52:52) - Promoting End-of-Life Care Movement

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Talking all Things LIFE with NYT Best Selling Author Kris Carr

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Kris Carr, a remarkable individual who has thrived with stage four cancer for nearly two decades, joins us to share her incredible journey and tools on how to THRIVE in LIFE!

She reveals how her diagnosis became a catalyst for empowerment, blending traditional and integrative care while tuning into her intuition. Kris opens up about navigating the challenges of uncertainty and fear, ultimately finding profound peace in confronting mortality. Her story inspires us to consider how embracing a growth mindset can transform life's most difficult moments into opportunities for personal evolution.

Our conversation takes a personal turn as we examine the transformative power of a health crisis. She shares her own experience with a rare cancer diagnosis that prompted a radical shift in her approach to self-care and emotional well-being. As a coach, she discusses guiding others through similar challenges with empathy and the healing potential of forgiveness. We explore the hidden blessings within adversity and the importance of connecting with one's inner wisdom to navigate life's journey with authenticity and courage.

Food and mindfulness emerge as key components in Kris's wellness philosophy, emphasizing an anti-inflammatory lifestyle grounded in whole, plant-based nutrition. We explore the simplicity of incorporating daily habits like smoothies and manageable exercise routines.

Kris shares her insights into the five pillars of wellness, underscoring the impact of mindful choices on stress and inflammation. The episode concludes with reflections on self-connection, forgiveness, and pursuing happiness, ultimately encouraging listeners to live with grace and empowerment amidst life's challenges.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:02) Cancer Journey and Turning Points
(07:49) Embracing Change Through Illness
(11:10) Wellness Through Food and Mindfulness
(24:16) Healing Through Self-Connection and Forgiveness
(35:31) Cultivating Growth and Happiness

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series #1

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 04:30:00 -0500

What happens when we embrace the reality of death instead of fearing it?

Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, founder of the International Doula Givers Institute, on the Ask a Death Doula podcast as we embark on a transformative journey through the complex world of end-of-life care with The Good Death Seminar Series. This episode promises to challenge your perceptions, with stories from my hospice experiences and insights from historical perspectives that confront our deep-seated fear of death. Together, we'll explore how aligning our intentions with compassion can redefine our understanding of what it truly means to experience a 'good death.'

Throughout our engaging Good Death Seminar Series, we delve into the intricacies of end-of-life care within the current medical system, questioning if we've forgotten that death is a natural part of life. Through personal anecdotes, from patients like Vivian to families navigating the difficult medical landscape, we highlight the necessity of a purpose-driven approach. We'll discuss the lost art of dying, dissecting cultural and language barriers that obscure the reality of mortality and urging for a return to empathy and understanding.

Our journey doesn't stop there. We address the commercialization of death and the urgency of respecting individual end-of-life wishes. By sharing poignant stories, like that of oncology patient Maureen, we examine how a supportive and informed environment can empower people facing the end of life. With a focus on compassion and personal responsibility, we explore how each of us, with the right education and support, can foster a world where everyone has the opportunity to experience a good death. Join us as we embrace the sacredness of death and its reflection on life, paving the way for a compassionate future.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:01) Ask a Death Doula Podcast Welcome
(06:09) Unveiling the Fear of Death
(11:51) Exposing the Fear of Death
(18:31) Reclaiming the Art of Dying
(32:13) Exploring Cultural Views on Death
(41:12) Facing the Challenges of End-of-Life Care
(49:04) Improving End-of-Life Care System
(59:48) Embracing Sacredness of Death

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Podcast Series - Hospice Nurse Penny

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 04:30:00 -0500

Navigating the Journey with Hospice Nurse Penny: Valuing End-of-Life Care

In this episode of the Good Death podcast series, we converse with Penny Smith, also known as Hospice Nurse Penny. A renowned hospice and palliative care nurse, Penny discusses her journey from a tumultuous past to becoming an RN and a social media influencer with over 2 million followers. She highlights the importance of hospice education, the misconceptions about hospice care, and the profound impact of bedside visitations. Penny shares her personal story, including her experience with death anxiety and her father's post-death visitation, aiming to normalize the end-of-life process and remove the stigma surrounding it. This conversation offers an inspiring look into the importance of discussing and understanding end-of-life care.

We dive in to:

00:00 Introduction to the Good Death Podcast

00:25 Meet Hospice Nurse Penny

03:17 Penny's Journey to Hospice Nursing

09:52 Discovering Social Media During the Pandemic

12:23 Writing the Book: A Journey of Reflection

14:44 A Life-Changing Encounter with Law Enforcement

18:57 Overcoming Personal Challenges

21:26 Misconceptions About Hospice and End-of-Life Care

22:27 Late Hospice Admissions and Misconceptions

23:22 The Role of Medications in Hospice Care

24:42 The Emotional and Sacred Aspects of Hospice Work

26:25 Personal Reflections and Life Lessons

27:50 Deathbed Visions and Spiritual Experiences

30:58 Personal Stories of Afterlife Encounters

36:24 The Impact of Spiritual Beliefs on Grief

37:06 Conclusion

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

5 Things to Help Grief at the Holidays

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Navigate the intricate emotions of grief during the holiday season with insights from our latest episode of Ask a Death Doula.

Discover effective strategies to manage the sorrow of missing a loved one, whether you're facing their absence for the first time or have been carrying this weight for years. We provide five transformative tips to help you find peace and meaning in the midst of pain, drawing on universal truths from diverse cultural and religious perspectives that can reshape how we view the end-of-life experience. Our aim is not only to ease the burden of grief but also to cultivate a sense of enduring love and connection with those who have passed on.

We delve into the art of creating family traditions that honor and remember those no longer with us—forging bonds that transcend the boundaries of life and death. From cooking treasured family recipes to exchanging gifts in a loved one's name, these heartfelt rituals can foster a sense of unity and continuity. Imagine a memory jar filled with stories and messages that keep their spirit alive, or dedicating acts of kindness that extend their legacy into the world. These practices are not just acts of remembrance; they are pathways to healing, offering comfort and a shared sense of purpose as we celebrate the holidays with the presence of our loved ones felt in every moment.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive in to:

(02:52) Complicated Grief and End of Life

(06:56) Holiday Rituals for All Ages

(11:53) Memory Jar for Remembering Loved Ones

(17:07) Coping With Grief During Holidays

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Podcast Series: Dr. Michael Fratkin's Journey from Traditional Medicine to Psychedelic Healing

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 04:30:00 -0500

How do we redefine the end-of-life journey with compassion and innovation?

We promise that today's episode with Dr. Michael Fratkin, a trailblazing rural palliative care physician, will leave you with a fresh perspective on healing and human connection. Dr. Fratkin's early experiences with loss and the societal norms surrounding death set him on a path to transform how we understand and approach palliative care. His insights, shaped by the AIDS crisis and personal encounters, demonstrate the power of empathy in reshaping our response to life's most challenging moments.

Dr. Fratkin shares his remarkable journey from a traditional medical career to becoming an entrepreneur in the healthcare industry. His love for outdoor adventures sparked a medical career that evolved beyond conventional pathways, leading to the creation of Resolution Care—a pioneering home-based palliative care program. Discover how embracing indigenous healing practices and technology allowed him to address burnout and expand his impact across multiple states, ultimately resulting in a heartfelt business journey experienced alongside family and friends.

In our conversation, we uncover the profound lessons Dr. Fratkin has learned from elders and end-of-life experiences, particularly regarding consciousness and healing. We explore the transformative potential of psychedelic therapy, emphasizing the importance of foundational support and emotional healing. From the wisdom of indigenous cultures to the power of gratitude and forgiveness, this episode invites you to challenge modern healthcare shortcomings and cultivate a deeper understanding of life, happiness, and spiritual fulfillment. Join us as we share upcoming events and initiatives that aim to foster informed communities around these innovative therapeutic practices.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive in to:

00:02) - Dr. Fratkin's Path to Palliative Care

(08:52) - From Medicine to Entrepreneurship

(17:49) - Exploring Consciousness and Healing Professionally

(32:53) - Healing With Psychedelic Therapy

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Doulagivers Institute
The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
Eleos Journeys https://eleosjourney.com/ketamine-assisted-psychotherapy-seminar-for-physicians/ Institute for Rural Psychedelic Care https://www.ruralpsychedeliccare.org/ Center for New Growth https://humboldtcenterfornewgrowth.com/ Mountains of Courage https://mountainsofcourage.org/

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Heartache to Hope: Navigating Loss and Recovery with Darryl Rodgers, Founder of The Family Recovery Coach

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Losing a child is an unimaginable pain that no parent should have to endure.

For Darryl Rodgers, founder of The Family Recovery Coach, this heartache became a catalyst for transformation. Darryl's life shifted dramatically after the tragic loss of his son, Chase, who died in a marijuana-impaired car accident at the tender age of 20. In this heartfelt episode, Darryl shares his deeply personal journey, offering invaluable insights into the world of addiction and the significant role that empathy and understanding play in family recovery.

As we explore the challenging terrain of addiction, particularly among young adults, Darryl emphasizes the importance of early, open communication and a non-judgmental approach. Parents often struggle with how to react to their child's substance use, and harsh reactions can sometimes do more harm than good. By understanding the underlying traumas that often drive addiction, families can foster a supportive environment where healing is possible. Darryl's reflections on his own experiences provide a sobering yet hopeful perspective on the delicate balance of guiding a child through their darkest moments.

Grief, in all its forms, is a recurring theme in our conversation. Darryl discusses anticipatory grief and the heart-wrenching loss of the child he once knew, offering a poignant look at how addiction transforms individuals and families alike. Yet, through his grief, Darryl found purpose—turning his pain into a mission to help others. His work, including his book, short film, and coaching services, is dedicated to supporting families in similar situations. Darryl's website, thefamilyrecoverycoach.com, offers resources and a free 30-minute strategy session for parents embarking on their recovery journey. Join us for this powerful episode and discover the strength, resilience, and hope that can emerge from even the deepest sorrow.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:00) Navigating Addiction and Family Recovery
(07:15) Approaching Addiction & Trauma With Empathy
(19:23) Fostering Growth Through Grief
(27:12) Supporting Families Through Addiction

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Learn more about Darryl Rodgers and what he do - Click here!
Reach out to Darryl Rodgers directly - Click here!

How Being Thankful Can Save Your Life

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Unlock the secrets to a richer, more connected life through the transformative power of gratitude.

Join us as we unravel the science-backed benefits of gratitude from renowned studies, and discover a simple daily practice that promises to elevate your well-being and attract positivity. Ever wondered how a shift in perspective can change your life's frequency? This episode holds the answers, offering insights into how gratitude can be a guiding force in achieving personal growth and fulfillment.

Guided by my own journey from a hospital nurse to finding purpose as a hospice nurse, we'll explore how gratitude and compassionate living can shape a vibrant existence. Embrace the lessons from end-of-life care, where appreciating life's simple blessings leads to profound inner transformation. By aligning with love and service, we can let go of control and experience life anew, all while recognizing and respecting the unseen struggles others are facing. Tune in to embark on a journey of self-discovery and connection, where gratitude becomes the key to unlocking your true potential.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:02) - The Power of Gratitude and Connection

(11:16) - The Power of Gratitude and Vibration

(26:43) - Embracing Gratitude for a Beautiful Life

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Celebrating National Caregiver Month and Why I Wrote THE GOOD DEATH BOOK

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Discover the secrets to balancing the demands of the "sandwich generation" and master the intricacies of end-of-life care with insights that could change your perspective forever.

Host Suzanne O'Brien, a seasoned hospice and oncology nurse, shares wisdom from her book, "The Good Death," to help caregivers navigate the challenging landscape of caring for both aging parents and children while maintaining their own careers. Through enlightening discussions, we shine a light on the urgent need for support systems and the transformative power of education in reducing the fear surrounding death.

Unravel the complexity of grief and understand how embracing death as a natural part of life can lead to healing. Suzanne shares heartening stories of individuals who have found peace and solace after loss, underscoring the role of resources like "The Good Death Book" in preparing families for the inevitable journey. As advancements in medicine extend life expectancy, families must equip themselves to ensure a dignified and supportive end-of-life experience for their loved ones. By fostering a collective approach to caregiving, we can prevent the responsibility from becoming an isolating burden.

Join us in celebrating National Caregiver Month by acknowledging the tireless contributions of caregivers everywhere. Suzanne extends a heartfelt message of appreciation and highlights the importance of spreading awareness about the resources available to support those in caregiving roles. By challenging misconceptions and embracing meaningful end-of-life rituals, we can enrich our understanding of life and death, empowering caregivers and families to face these moments with dignity and meaning. Tune in for a conversation filled with compassion, dedication, and valuable life lessons.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:02) - Supporting Caregivers in End-of-Life

(07:23) - Navigating Grief and End-of-Life Care

(19:41) - Embracing End-of-Life Rituals and Choices

(28:02) - Celebrating National Caregiver Month

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Surviving Hurricane Milton

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Can you find peace and purpose amidst the chaos of a hurricane?

Join me on an emotional journey through the devastation of Hurricane Helene in St. Petersburg, Florida, where the bond with my loyal dog, Maple, and the lessons from those at life's end became my guiding lights. As another storm threatened, the urgent mission to protect Maple highlighted the profound connections we hold with our pets, even in the face of nature's fury. Reflecting on these experiences, I share insights on embracing gratitude and discovering unexpected gifts that arise from dire circumstances.

Do end-of-life choices hold the key to combating climate change? I invite you to explore this question as I recount my transformative path to becoming a hospice nurse, driven by a deep sense of purpose. This episode uncovers the environmental impacts of traditional burial practices and presents sustainable alternatives like green burials and human composting, not only as eco-friendly solutions but as financially savvy choices. Introducing my new book, "The Good Death," I aim to empower you with knowledge on navigating end-of-life journeys with serenity and environmental consciousness, demonstrating the power of mindful presence and gratitude in both living and dying.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:02) - Surviving Hurricane Milton

(13:05) - Life's Purpose and Climate Change Action

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The First Phase of End-of-Life and What You Can Do to Support a Dying Loved One

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 04:30:00 -0500

What if we reimagined death not as a battle to fight, but as a sacred part of our life's journey?

Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as I share insights from my work as a hospice and oncology nurse, guiding you through the shock phase that follows a terminal diagnosis. This episode challenges the fears that often surround death, urging us to engage in honest conversations about end-of-life care. Discover practical tools to help you navigate this difficult terrain, ensuring that you and your loved ones are prepared for what lies ahead.

In our conversation, we explore the transformative power of presence, compassion, and active listening. We highlight how choosing love and kindness can help distinguish between merely being alive and truly living. By focusing on what truly matters, from simple comforts like a favorite song to important decisions about care, we can help return a sense of control to those facing their final days. With an emphasis on safety and respect for personal wishes, we explore how to support loved ones with dignity and care.

Finally, witness a touching story of a family's journey with their beloved grandmother that underscores the importance of trust and emotional presence. This episode not only illustrates how education and compassion can create positive end-of-life experiences but also introduces the Good Death Seminar Series. This unique opportunity offers guidance in facilitating a compassionate and memorable journey for your loved ones. Together, let's ensure everyone can experience a meaningful and dignified end-of-life journey.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!

We dive into:

(00:02) Understanding the Shock Phase of End-of-Life
(11:46) Empowering End-of-Life Conversations
(17:32) Navigating End-of-Life Shock Phase
(28:06) Creating Positive End-of-Life Experiences

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

How To Be A Confident Caregiver

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Unlock the secrets to becoming a confident caregiver and transform your approach to end-of-life planning.

Today, we promise to equip you with the knowledge and insight necessary to navigate the intricate journey of supporting your aging loved ones. Through real-life stories and expert advice, we tackle the emotional and logistical challenges head-on, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead and making informed decisions. With an aging population that demands our attention, understanding the nuances of caregiving, including the pivotal role of death doulas, is more crucial than ever.

Reflect on the myriad of options available for end-of-life care, from maintaining urban independence to exploring shared housing arrangements. We share personal anecdotes about the nature of family discussions surrounding future care preferences and the importance of facing these often difficult conversations with honesty and empathy. Join us as we contemplate living arrangements—whether it’s independent city living, family-supported granny pods, or reputable care facilities—highlighting the importance of tailoring decisions to match individual needs and values.

Explore the realm of eco-friendly body disposition methods such as natural burials, water cremation, and human composting, and the positive impact these choices can have on the environment. We discuss the historical context and current implications of traditional burial practices, urging listeners to consider sustainable alternatives. By embracing these options, you can align your end-of-life plans with your personal and environmental values, ultimately fostering a respectful and meaningful farewell. Don't miss the opportunity to redefine your relationship with death, making it a sacred and natural part of life’s journey.

We dive into:

(00:03) Planning Ahead for End-of-Life Care
(10:04) End-of-Life Care Planning and Options
(20:32) Compassionate End-of-Life Care Planning
(27:02) Expanding Options for End-of-Life Care
(32:44) Green End-of-Life Options and Rituals
(44:27) Free Confident Caregiver Course Offer

Buy 3 GOOD DEATH BOOKS and get the Confident Caregiver Course ($997 ) for FREE CLICK HERE: https://thegooddeathbook.com

Join the next GOOD DEATH Seminar Series Register here

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

What is Hospice Care, What is Hospice Gap and How You Can Fill It

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 04:30:00 -0500

What if our modern approach to hospice care is missing the mark on its original compassionate intent?

Join us on this eye-opening journey through the rich history and transformative evolution of hospice care, from its heartfelt beginnings in the 1960s with Dame Cicely Saunders to its present-day challenges in the United States. We unover the pivotal moment when the Medicare hospice benefit of 1982 shifted the focus from non-profit, holistic care to the for-profit model, often compromising the essential values of time and empathy. As we navigate these changes, we shed light on the pressing need to restore the core principles of hospice to truly honor end-of-life experiences.

Throughout this episode, we tackle the critical issue of the "hospice gap," highlighting the overwhelming burden on family caregivers and the systemic hurdles that contribute to inadequate end-of-life care. We explore how fear, delayed hospice engagement, and limited professional interaction leave families unsupported. To empower you, we share vital questions you should ask when selecting a hospice, emphasizing the importance of understanding the holistic nature of care and the role of family support. With resources from the Doula Givers Institute, we aim to equip you with the knowledge needed to revive the sacredness of life's final chapter.

We dive into:

(00:02) The Evolution of Hospice Care
(08:16) Closing the Hospice Care Gap
(17:14) Important Questions to Ask a Hospice

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The History of Death and How it Became the #1 Fear in the World

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Why is our modern society so terrified of death, and how can this fear be transformed into a meaningful part of life?

Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as we unpack the deep-seated anxieties surrounding death and explore how these fears can lead to poor decisions and missed opportunities for those at the end of life. Drawing from my experiences as a hospice and oncology nurse, I reflect on how historical reverence for death contrasts sharply with our current culture of avoidance, urging a shift in perspective to embrace death as a natural milestone.

Discover the profound lessons that death imparts and the importance of living each day to the fullest in the face of life's uncertainty. We discuss the complexities of extending human life and the significant challenges the medical community faces in end-of-life care. Through touching narratives, including poignant personal stories, I highlight the need for honest conversations about Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders and advocate for a cultural shift to see death as a human experience rather than merely a medical issue. These discussions underscore the urgency for compassionate and innovative solutions in end-of-life care.

In our final segment, we reflect on the universal themes of connection, love, and the preciousness of time, illustrated through the emotional journey of Maureen, a 44-year-old woman with gallbladder cancer. Her story underscores the critical importance of human connections in the final moments and the power of compassionate care. I emphasize the necessity of open conversations and education to ensure positive end-of-life experiences, inviting you to join our Good Death Seminar Series to transform our collective approach to death with kindness and support. Your questions and comments are welcome for future episodes as we continue this vital dialogue.

We dive into:

(00:02) The Fear of Death (10:18) Reframing the Narrative of Death (19:17) Embracing the Transition of End (26:27) Reframing the End of Life

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Good Death Seminar Series Announced

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 04:30:00 -0500

What if you could ensure a dignified, compassionate end-of-life experience for a loved one?

Join us in this transformative episode of Ask a Deaf Doula as Suzanne O'Brien, former hospice and oncology nurse, introduces the groundbreaking Good Death Seminar Series. This six-month, entirely free program is designed to bridge critical gaps in hospice care by equipping families with essential knowledge and skills. Suzanne passionately discusses the current state of hospice care, stressing the urgent need for better family preparation and support. From historical perspectives on death to practical caregiving skills, this series promises to be an invaluable resource.

Mark your calendars for key sessions that will reshape your approach to end-of-life care. Tune in on December 4th to explore defining quality of life and making informed medical choices, and on December 18th for nine must-answer questions to ensure a good death experience. Discover the importance of family conversations about end-of-life wishes on January 1st, and gain tools for navigating family disagreements on January 15th. Finally, on January 29th, we will discuss three common end-of-life phenomena reported globally. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the end-of-life journey with dignity and grace.

The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now:

We dive into:

(00:02) Good Death Seminar Series Announcement
(14:17) End-of-Life Seminar Series Information

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

How to Make a Death Doula Website

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Imagine facing the end of your life with a sense of peace and support.

In this episode, Suzanne O'Brien shares her insights on creating an impactful and authentic death doula website that reflects your passion for end-of-life care. We explore user-friendly platforms like Squarespace and Wix, offering practical advice on presenting your services with clarity and genuineness. Discover how to use colors and images to resonate with your unique approach and learn about the necessity of proper training and resources to provide the highest level of service to patients and their families.

Ever wondered about the crucial role of death doulas? Suzanne delves into the non-medical support they provide, encompassing emotional, physical, spiritual, and informational care. Reflect on your preparedness for end-of-life situations and listen to personal stories that highlight the importance of building trust through sharing credentials. We also discuss the comprehensive services offered by death doulas, from facilitating vital end-of-life conversations to creating vigil plans and offering spiritual support, demonstrating how they ensure a positive and comfortable end-of-life experience for everyone involved.

Death doulas fill significant gaps left by traditional hospice care, providing extended, personalized support before, during, and after a loved one's death. Suzanne discusses the acceptance of doulas by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the rigorous training they undergo. Learn about the affordability and availability of doula services, including teledoula support, and the importance of creating accessible end-of-life resources. Whether you're considering becoming a death doula or seeking support for a loved one, this episode offers valuable insights into the profound work of death doulas.

We dive into:

(00:00) Build Death Doula Website
(08:35) Benefits and Importance of Death Doulas
(13:46) Comprehensive Services of Death Doulas
(26:57) Creating Free End-of-Life Resources
(33:03) End-of-Life Doula Services and Support

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

3 Steps to Ensure a Positive Passing for You and Your Loved Ones

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 04:30:00 -0500

What if you could transform the end-of-life experience into a holistic, human journey rather than a purely medical one?

Join us as we explore the profound and often overlooked aspects of end-of-life care on this episode of "Ask a Death Doula." We’re breaking down the three phases of end-of-life, from initial comfort measures to the body's natural decline, and highlighting the critical role of proactive planning. Discover how you can enrich these final moments for your loved ones and yourself by embracing new, progressive choices that celebrate life and honor the environment.

Understanding legal preparations is crucial, and this episode sheds light on the importance of advanced directives and POLST forms. Learn why these documents are vital for ensuring your wishes are respected by medical professionals and how they can prevent common pitfalls. We share real-life stories to illustrate the necessity of awareness and education about these forms, empowering you to make informed decisions. This chapter is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate end-of-life care with confidence and clarity.

We also take a heartfelt look at sustainable end-of-life options that go beyond traditional practices. Imagine the intimacy of home wakes, the eco-friendliness of natural burials, or the innovative choices of water cremation and human composting. These alternatives not only honor the deceased but also tread lightly on the planet and are often more financially viable. Host Suzanne O'Brien expresses her gratitude for your participation and encourages you to explore the free resources available at doulagivers.com. Prepare to transform your perspective on end-of-life care and make it a deeply meaningful experience.

We dive into:

(00:02) Navigating End of Life Care
(06:49) End of Life Care Essentials
(12:50) Understanding Advanced Directives and PULST Forms
(17:48) Exploring Sustainable End-of-Life Options
(27:02) Improving End of Life Care

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

A Heartbeat of Resilience: Peggy Lindsay's Journey from Crisis to Recovery

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 04:30:00 -0500

What if a life-threatening health crisis could transform not just your body, but your spirit as well?

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Peggy Lindsay, heart transplant survivor and author of "My Beat Goes On," as she recounts her extraordinary journey. Peggy opens up about her family's history of heart disease and the unexpected health scare at age 51 that led her to seek a second opinion, ultimately revealing the urgent need for a heart transplant. Her story underscores the power of proactive medical care and the compelling need for firsthand patient narratives, a gap she aims to fill through her book.

Listen to Peggy's gripping account of her medical journey, where her healthcare surrogate battled to get her the advanced care she needed, leading to a timely diagnosis of cardiogenic shock. She shares the emotional crossroads between opting for hospice care and choosing the rigorous path to a heart transplant—a choice she made thanks to her daughter's unwavering support and the exceptional team at Tampa General. From navigating the trials of surgery and recovery to discussing the intriguing phenomena of cellular memory and heightened intuition, Peggy's story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of modern medicine.

We dive into:

(12:34 - 13:31) The Importance of Having an Advocate
(18:50 - 20:11) Life-Saving Transplant Journey
(22:24 - 24:43) Life-Changing Organ Donation Offer
(29:53 - 30:49) Visions of Deceased Loved Ones
(32:42 - 33:48) Heart Transplant Connection and Donors
(37:14 - 38:41) Seeking Health Opinions

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Doulagivers Institute
The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
Buy Peggy Lindsay's book - My Beat Goes On: Chronicles of a Heart Transplant Patient

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Adrian Allotey, Founder of You Are Not Alone Elder Care

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Adrian Allotey, Founder of You Are Not Alone Elder Care

Ever wondered how we can transform the final stages of life into a sacred and beautiful experience?

Join us as we sit down with Adrian Allotey, an empathetic end-of-life doula and elder companion, who shares her heartfelt journey of turning end-of-life care into a deeply human and spiritual endeavor. Adrian opens up about her personal regrets and the lack of support she felt during her grandmother's final moments, shedding light on the importance of emotional and spiritual care. She introduces her innovative methods, like "dress rehearsals" for families, aimed at making the last days less fearful and more comforting.

As we navigate through the conversation, Adrian's insights reveal the transformative power of love, presence, and intuition in end-of-life care. From the challenges of raising awareness about the role of death doulas to the profound impact of COVID-19 on our collective understanding of life and death, this episode is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. Adrian's touching stories, including the comfort found in physical closeness, music, and involving distant family members, underscore the holistic and compassionate approach that can help us rebuild a more united and empathetic world. Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, kindness, and a hopeful vision for the future of end-of-life care.

We dive into:

(06:29 - 07:25) Dress Rehearsals in End-of-Life Care
(12:45 - 14:31) Reflections on COVID and Self-Awareness
(19:28 - 20:28) End of Life Comfort and Communication
(28:17 - 29:15) Embracing Life Through Death

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Felicity Warner, Founder of Soul Midwives UK

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Felicity Warner, Founder of Soul Midwives UK

Can the final days of life be filled with dignity and grace?

Join us for an enlightening journey into the heart of end-of-life care as we welcome Felicity Warner, the pioneering founder of Soul Midwives. Felicity shares her deeply personal story of how her grandmother's painful hospital experience ignited her mission to transform end-of-life care into a compassionate, holistic practice. Her efforts have since blossomed into a widely respected organization, embraced by the NHS, and she has received multiple prestigious awards for her groundbreaking work. Listen in as Felicity's story emphasizes the profound impact of human connection and holistic support, inspiring us all to envision a world where people can die with dignity and grace.

In this episode, we also explore the transformative power of holistic approaches in hospice care, through the experiences of a journalist who transitioned into working with terminally ill young women. By highlighting the distinction between clinical interventions and the inherently human experience of dying, we underscore the significance of a 'good death' for both individuals and their loved ones. Additionally, we celebrate the growing global awareness of death through the success of the Soul Midwives conference, advocating for the integration of compassionate, non-medical care into mainstream healthcare. This conversation is a powerful reminder of how acknowledging our mortality can enrich our daily lives and the care we provide to those at the end of theirs.

We dive into:

(01:26 - 02:27) Creating Global Community Through Soul Connection
(05:55 - 07:04) Inspiring Journey From Tragedy to Triumph
(13:48 - 15:17) The Teachings of Dying Patients
(17:33 - 18:31) The Beauty of End of Life
(25:11 - 26:24) Embracing Life Through Awareness
(29:28 - 30:41) Power of Compassion and Love

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

More about Felicity and her work - Click here!

Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Brad Wolfe, Founder of Reimagine EOL

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 05:27:25 -0500

Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Brad Wolfe, Founder of Reimagine EOL

What if confronting mortality could be the key to living a more meaningful life?

Join us as we host Brad Wolf, the visionary founder and executive director of Reimagine End of Life, who shares his deeply personal journey and the pivotal experiences that led him to break down the taboos surrounding death through arts, spirituality, healthcare, and design. Brad recounts early inspirations, like his grandmother's wisdom and the impactful loss of his friend Sarah, demonstrating how mortality can serve as a powerful catalyst for living more fully.

Through our conversation with Brad, we uncover the profound wisdom shared by those facing the end of life, including valuable teachings from thought leaders Frank Ostaseski and Ira Byock. We touch on the transformative power of forgiveness, gratitude, and the importance of meaningful relationships. Hear touching stories, such as that of young volunteer Grace, and learn how the pandemic has reshaped our approach to these essential conversations. Additionally, Brad gives us a glimpse into an upcoming festival dedicated to creating space for vital end-of-life discussions.

Explore the transformative practices of writing legacy letters and love letters to oneself, and the importance of rituals and mindfulness in healing. Brad talks about Reimagine's remarkable initiatives, like the "Creating Space" festival and the "Mourning into Unity" initiative, which bring people together to support each other through grief and healing. Finally, Suzanne O'Brien wraps up the Death Doula Global Summit interview with heartfelt gratitude and anticipation for future discussions, leaving us inspired to integrate the wisdom of elders and face life and death with courage and compassion.

We dive into:

(04:01 - 04:52) Rediscovering the Value of Aging
(09:39 - 11:47) Universal Laws and Common Humanity
(14:11 - 15:52) Innovative Human-Centered Design Approach
(21:45 - 23:42) Zoom Challenges and Opportunities
(34:01 - 35:33) Path to Hospice and Consciousness
(43:51 - 44:59) Sharing Wisdom in End-of-Life Care

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

More about Brad Wolfe and his music - Click here!

Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Ken Ross President of the Elisabeth Kubler Ross Foundation.

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 18:24:40 -0500

Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Ken Ross President of the Elisabeth Kubler Ross Foundation.

Honoring Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross: A Legacy of Compassion and End-of-Life Care

In 2020, Doulagivers Institute sponsored The Death Doula Global Summit and had interviews with the most impactful pioneers in the Death Doula and Death Positive Movement.

The wisdom and interviews are breathtaking. If you were not able to be part of that live summit, here is your chance as we will be spotlighting some of the great interviews that will not only heal your heart- but inspire you about what is yet to come.

In this episode of Ask a Death Doula, Join us as Ken Ross, son of the legendary Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, shares his extraordinary journey and what it was like growing up with a mother who revolutionized how we understand death and dying?

You’ll uncover intimate stories about his mother, from her early days as a humble Swiss woman to becoming a global pioneer in end-of-life care. Ken gives us an insider’s view into her remarkable life, revealing the profound impact she had on both him and the world.

We also honor Dr. Kubler-Ross’s relentless advocacy for marginalized communities. From aiding bullied classmates and animals in her youth to providing compassionate care for AIDS patients during a time of widespread stigma, her dedication knew no bounds. Despite facing severe backlash and professional ostracization, her mission to ensure dignified end-of-life care never wavered. Her pioneering contributions to holistic patient care have paved the way for modern advancements in palliative care, inspiring countless medical professionals, including registered nurse Suzanne O'Brien, who reflects on Dr. Kubler-Ross's influence on her own work.

Looking to the future, Ken shares exciting developments aimed at preserving and expanding his mother’s legacy. Discover how the Elizabeth Kubler-Ross Foundation is growing its global reach, from launching online education series in multiple languages to digitizing her archives at Stanford. As we navigate the challenges of COVID-19, this episode is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of adversity. Embrace life fully, learn from your fears, and carry forward the compassion that Dr. Kubler-Ross championed throughout her life.

We dive into:

(04:23 - 05:44) Growing Up With an Incredible Mother
(08:46 - 09:36) Maintaining Humanity During Crisis
(12:14 - 13:41) Importance of Holistic End-of-Life Care
(20:06 - 21:16) Global Online Education Collaboration Efforts
(24:29 - 25:49) Global Expansion for Death Cafes
(30:33 - 32:48) Life-Changing Journeys and Cultural Connections
(35:42 - 36:41) Death as Universal Teacher

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Learn more about Ken Ross Photography - Click here!

Can Learning The Truth About End of Life Help Heal Grief

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Understanding Death: Finding Peace and Healing in Grief

Can understanding death truly transform your experience of grief?

In this deeply moving episode of Ask a Death Doula, we explore powerful insights shared by hospice nurses and end-of-life care professionals. These stories reveal comforting phenomena such as seeing deceased loved ones and experiencing a surge of energy, offering a profound sense of peace. We also demystify the nature of grief, highlighting that it is a natural response to any significant loss, not just death, helping listeners navigate their own healing journeys.

We honor the remarkable life and legacy of Stacey White, a dedicated doula giver whose impact transcended her untimely passing. Stacey's resilience through severe health challenges and her peaceful acceptance of the end of her life left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Join us as we reflect on the unpredictable yet soothing nature of grief, comparing it to the ocean's ever-changing tides, and find solace in the knowledge that Stacey is no longer in pain.

Lastly, we delve into the profound connection between grief and love, emphasizing gratitude for the love shared with those who have passed. Practical advice is offered on allowing emotions to flow naturally and reframing death as a celebratory transition. We also highlight a free webinar that has provided immense support to caregivers and those processing loss. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to Stacey White, fostering a sense of global community and inspiring each of us to continue her legacy of positivity and mentorship. Join us and share this message of healing and hope with your loved ones.

We dive into:

(02:14 - 03:54) Healing Grief With Truth
(06:36 - 07:46) Belief in Afterlife and Shared Experiences
(10:57 - 12:12) Journey Between Worlds
(15:47 - 17:29) Remembering the Amazing Stacey White
(19:38 - 20:48) Navigating Emotions Through Grief
(27:13 - 28:18) Finding Meaning in the Spiritual Journey

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Death Doula Global Summit: Barbara Karnes

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 04:30:00 -0500

The Vital Role of End-of-Life Doulas

Join us for a profound exploration of the pioneering work of Barbara Karnes in the American Hospice movement. In this episode, Barbara shares her inspiring journey from initial disillusionment with nursing to finding her true calling in hospice care, influenced by legends like Cicely Saunders and Elizabeth Kubler-Ross. Beginning her career at the onset of the AIDS epidemic, Barbara recounts her early days volunteering and working at Kansas' first hospice. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, she highlights the unique approach of hospice care, which prioritizes a sacred and meaningful end-of-life experience over the traditional medical model that often views death as a failure.

Listen in as we discuss the critical importance of human connection and trust-building in end-of-life care. We explore how simple acts like sharing a cup of coffee with primary caregivers can provide emotional, mental, and spiritual healing that complements the physical care of the patient. The conversation sheds light on the shortcomings of the current hospice system, which often prioritizes physical aspects over emotional support and suffers from frequent nurse rotations. Barbara emphasizes the need for time and presence to build genuine bonds, pointing out the gaps in the mainstream medical system that hinder compassionate care. We also touch on the transformative power of education in end-of-life care, recognizing the impact of well-crafted educational resources.

Finally, we explore the evolving role of end-of-life doulas and the importance of creating sacred, meaningful experiences for those in their final stages of life. Barbara addresses common misconceptions about the dying process and the need for more holistic, personalized approaches that contrast sharply with the mainstream medical focus. We share touching stories, including Oprah Winfrey's use of Barbara's hospice book during her mother's final days, underscoring the universal need for compassionate end-of-life support. Join us as we conclude with insights and blessings for the work being done by death doulas worldwide, celebrating their crucial role in providing comfort and care during such pivotal times.

We dive into:

(02:09 - 03:51) Transition to Hospice Care
(06:46 - 08:41) Evolution of Hospice Care in US
(13:48 - 15:30) Hospice Care Training
(24:32 - 26:02) Hospice and Patient Relationship Bonds
(29:28 - 30:08) End of Life Education Program Importance
(36:57 - 39:08) Improving End-of-Life Support Services
(44:44 - 45:50) Non-Medical Holistic Care for Elders
(48:31 - 52:04) End-of-Life Doula Support and Guidance

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Benefits of Forest Bathing

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Transform Your Health and Happiness with Forest Bathing: A Journey Through Nature Therapy

Have you ever felt the healing power of nature wash over you during a simple walk in the park?

Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, on "Ask a Death Doula" as I recount my transformative experiences in Central Park and share the ancient wisdom behind the practice of forest bathing. Discover how immersing yourself in nature can rejuvenate your mind and body, with benefits like reduced cortisol levels, lowered blood pressure, and a boosted immune system. This episode delves into the holistic health benefits of reconnecting with natural elements and how such simple, cost-free practices can significantly enhance our quality of life.

We’ll explore the remarkable impact of forest bathing on mental well-being, from mitigating stress and inflammation to improving happiness and creativity. Learn about the spiritual benefits that come from moments of silence and meditation in nature, and hear why doctors are increasingly prescribing nature therapy as a holistic approach to health. Plus, join me on a 30-day forest bathing journey designed to foster growth, healing, and joy. Tune in for an episode filled with practical advice, personal stories, and an invitation to transform your life through the simple act of stepping into nature.

We dive into:

(00:02) Benefits of Forest Bathing and Wellness
(08:48) Benefits of Forest Bathing
(23:32) Healing Through Forest Bathing

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

There is NO Need to Fear Death: A Discussion with Hospice Nurse Julie!

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Two hospice nurses sit down and have a heart to heart discussion about the end of life and dying experience. Sharing the TRUTH about this sacred experience, and what people need to know to have the "Good Death".

Get ready to be inspired and to look at life and death through an entirely new lens!

Enter Julie McFadden, a hospice nurse whose journey from the fast-paced intensity of the ICU to the soulful realm of end-of-life care has shaped her into a poignant storyteller and advocate. She joins us to share the transitions and insights that have colored her career, offering a glimpse into the sacred moments that accompany someone's final days. Her upcoming book, "Nothing to Fear," emerges as a testament to her mission to educate and alleviate the fears surrounding death—a subject often shrouded in misconception and dread.

The conversation spirals into the heart of hospice care, where Julie and I illuminate the oft-misunderstood dying experience. We're reminded of the natural progression of death, a path trodden by all but recognized by few. Reflecting on the language that doctors and nurses use, we question how reframing our perspective on death can not only be more honest but also more comforting. It's about embracing the full cycle of life rather than viewing its conclusion as a battle lost. Julie's insights challenge us to find beauty in the inevitability of death, and to see it as a part of our shared human experience, especially in times of great division.

In the delicate dance between life and the after, there are moments that seem to defy time itself—these are the sacred encounters at the threshold of mortality that Julie and I explore. Through personal stories and heart-centered conversations, we pay homage to the spiritual growth that often accompanies physical decline. We ponder the profound love and energy felt at the bedside of those passing, moments that hint at something far greater than what we understand. As our episode draws to a close, we share a sense of gratitude for the connective tissue of humanity that caring for the dying reveals and invite listeners to carry this episode's message into their own lives and conversations.

We dive into:

(01:29 - 02:49) Becoming a Nurse
(04:48 - 06:48) From ICU to Hospice
(08:16 - 09:20) The Importance of Honest End-of-Life Conversations
(13:18 - 14:35) Patterns of the Body's Natural Shutdown
(22:18 - 23:15) Impact of True Connection in Healthcare
(29:39 - 30:31) Bedside Visitations and Grief
(32:39 - 33:31) End-of-Life Experiences and Awareness
(37:57 - 38:39) Educating About the Dying Process

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Doulagivers Institute
GET THE BOOK "Nothing To Fear"here
The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Learn more about Hospice Nurse Julie - Click here!

Securing Your Pet's Future: The Essentials of Pet Trusts with Ingrid Harrison

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Steps to Safeguard Your Pet's Well-being

What would happen to your beloved pet if something were to happen to you?

Join us for a heartwarming and crucial conversation with Ingrid Harrison, a passionate advocate for animal welfare, as we delve into the world of pet trusts. Ingrid's touching journey, originating from her childhood on a dairy farm, offers a unique perspective on the profound emotional bonds between humans and their pets. Together, we explore the importance of setting up pet trusts, especially for animals with long lifespans such as birds, horses, and reptiles, ensuring they are cared for if their owners become incapacitated or pass away.

In this episode, we outline the essential steps in planning a pet trust, from selecting potential caregivers to compiling detailed information about your pet's needs. Learn why it's important to have emergency contacts and care plans readily accessible, particularly for those who live alone. Ingrid shares her decades of dedication to animal advocacy, offering valuable resources and inspiration for all pet owners. Wrap up with Suzanne's heartfelt gratitude towards Ingrid's work and her own plans to secure her pet's future, inspiring listeners to take immediate action. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that underscores the responsibility and love we owe to our animal companions.

We dive into:

(02:52 - 04:15) Love for Animals From Childhood
(04:17 - 06:26) Learning From Animal Connections
(11:50 - 13:30) Importance of Pet Care Awareness
(16:16 - 17:16) Importance of Having Conversations About Inheritance
(28:03 - 29:01) Navigating Pet Trusts and Obituaries

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

How to Be a "Tele" Death Doula

Tue, 28 May 2024 07:30:00 -0500

Learn how to be a "Tele" Death Doula and work with people from the comfort of your own home!

Covid-19 changed our lives forever. It also changed many different ways that we provide care. Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as we explore the fascinating world of death doulas and how they provide essential support to individuals and families now through the use of technology.

Drawing from my background as a hospice and oncology nurse, we discuss the holistic, non-medical care that death doulas offer. By reframing death as a human experience, rather than just a medical event, we uncover how death doulas fill a critical gap, ensuring every moment is met with compassion and understanding.

As the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped healthcare, we delve into the rise of Teledoulas—death doulas who provide their essential services through technology. This innovative approach has not only increased accessibility but also reduced stress for families by removing geographical barriers. We highlight the invaluable role Teledoulas played during the crisis, offering remote guidance and reassurance at a time when physical presence was limited. By utilizing platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype, Teledoulas have redefined end-of-life care, showcasing the enduring potential of telehealth.

Thinking about becoming a Teledoula? We break down the practical steps to start this fulfilling career, emphasizing the importance of education and training through the Doula Givers Institute. From offering a free 30-minute consultation to creating a structured and compassionate business model, we provide actionable insights to build trust and establish professional boundaries. Whether you're looking to enter the field or simply curious about the profound impact of death doulas, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to navigating and excelling in this vital profession.

We dive into:

(01:25 - 02:52) The Teledoula Movement
(05:11 - 06:20) The Importance of Teledoulas
(11:14 - 11:45) Understanding the Importance of Teledoulas
(18:09 - 19:06) Importance of Free Consultations for Doulas
(28:58 - 30:38) End-of-Life Doula Care Planning

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Global Love Project with Justin Lucci

Tue, 21 May 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Chalk Marks and Heart Strings: A Journey of Authenticity

Discover the transformative power of love and art with Justin Lucci.

Justin is the founder and CEO of the Global Love Project, who joins us to share his heartrending yet inspirational journey. After a personal tragedy reshaped his world, Justin traded his corporate suit for sidewalk chalk, starting a movement that encourages us to connect with our most authentic selves. Throughout our conversation, he opens up about the pivotal moments that led him from loss to a life abundant with purpose, spreading messages of love that resonate in the hearts of those who encounter his chalk art.

Justin's story is a testament to the undeniable impact of community and personal growth. I reveal the profound sense of unity and reflection fostered by a weekly chalk art event I host, demonstrating how such gatherings can serve as the bedrock for cultivating authentic happiness and deeper human connections. We delve into the concept that life's most harrowing challenges can indeed be the catalyst for our most significant evolution, and how a collective effort in intentions and actions can magnify the beauty of our shared human experience.

Closing this episode, we reflect on purpose and creativity as forces that shape our existence. Chalk art emerges not just as a medium of expression but as a poignant metaphor for life's transient nature and our innate yearning to express freely and fearlessly. Join us in celebrating the simplicity and power of purpose that lies in the energy we infuse into our daily lives. Justin's journey inspires us to find our creative outlets and to come together in elevating love and growth within our communities, marking the pavement—and our lives—with vibrant hues of hope and connection.

We dive into:

(02:16 - 03:32) Healing and Intentions Through Loss
(06:40 - 07:41) Healing Through Chalk Artivism
(11:30 - 14:32) Sunday Chalk Art Community Event
(16:31 - 17:10) Finding Purpose Through Human Experience
(23:11 - 25:14) Elevating Consciousness Through Global Love

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Learn more about The Global Love Project - Click here!

How To Build a Network Resource to Grow Your Death Doula Business

Tue, 14 May 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Fostering a Network for Impactful Doula Services at Life's End

Have you ever considered how the knowledge of death might deepen your appreciation for life?

Suzanne shares her expertise on creating a vital network resource list, a toolkit that arms you with connections ranging from estate planning lawyers to eco-friendly burial options, ensuring that your doula practice is not only a beacon of support for grieving families but also a thriving business.

Step into the realm of ethical end-of-life guidance and learn how to seamlessly integrate these services into your community through our discussion on building a robust death doula resource network. Suzanne illuminates the path to crafting stress-free end-of-life plans, emphasizing the transformative impact meticulous preparation has on the experience of the dying and their loved ones. This episode is an invitation to harness the power of death doula resources, enriching your practice and profoundly altering the landscape of end-of-life care. Join us as we honor life's final transition and the remarkable difference a well-prepared doula can make.

We dive into:

(00:02) Network Resource List for Deaf Doula
(10:01) Building Death Doula Resource Network
(20:08) Building a Deaf Doula Resource List

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Deeper Meaning of Doula Work with Doulagivers Graduate Judi Arasi

Tue, 07 May 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Guiding Lights in the Passage from Life to Death with Judi Arasi

Join us as we shine a spotlight on Judi Arasi, a remarkable graduate from the Dula Giver Practitioner program, whose journey into becoming a death doula is nothing short of inspiring. Judi shares the pivotal moment that propelled her towards this calling—the death of her mother-in-law—which revealed to her the pressing need for a more informed and compassionate approach to end-of-life care. Our conversation with Judi illuminates the critical role of death doulas in offering solace and support to families navigating this profound chapter of life, and underscores the burgeoning global recognition of death as an intrinsic human experience rather than a medical event. Listen in as Judi's personal narrative captures the transformative power of embracing one's true purpose in serving others during life's final moments.

In this heartfelt exchange, I reflect on the life-altering lessons learned from my vocation in end-of-life care. The profound privilege of being invited into the intimate space of people's homes during times of crisis has reshaped my outlook, instilling in me an appreciation for gratitude, forgiveness, and the art of cherishing human connections. I recount poignant interactions with patients and their families, emphasizing the deep bonds and the sense of extended family that emerges from this unique form of caregiving. This conversation culminates with the emotional recounting of being honored with the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Volunteer of the Year Award for 2023, a testament to the significant impact that compassion and companionship have in the lives of those we serve. Tune in as we explore these touching moments and celebrate the indelible impact of end-of-life care on both the giver and receiver.

We dive into:

(04:47 - 06:03) Discovery of Doula Calling
(19:45 - 21:02) Supporting End-of-Life Choices With Doulas
(23:16 - 23:51) Becoming a Doula

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Learn more about Judi - Click here!

How to Talk to Children About Death

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Conversations at Life's End with Tomorrow's Generation

Could our silence on the subject of death be shaping our children's fear of the inevitable?

This time, we peel back the layers of this taboo topic and reveal why it's essential to introduce our youngest minds to the concept of mortality. As a hospice nurse, I've witnessed firsthand the impact of death on families and the profound intuitive understanding children can have when it's explained with care. In sharing stories from the bedside, we uncover the lasting effects of shielding children from death and argue for their inclusion in the dying process. We’re not just discussing the end of life; we're advocating for an early and healthy relationship with its reality.

This episode isn't about the gloom of passing; it’s a call to live with authenticity and urgency. I share reflections from those in their twilight hours who wish they’d followed their hearts sooner. It's a poignant reminder that our time is finite and that we should seize the moment to pursue our passions. I inspire you by sharing my own leap into learning Spanish and challenge you to align your life with what truly stirs your soul. Let's break free from the cycle of stress and step into a life driven by inspiration and wonder.

To close, we touch on the importance of honest, open conversations about the cycle of life with our children. Providing resources and strategies, we explore how to talk about death in an age-appropriate way that fosters curiosity rather than fear. As we wrap up, I extend heartfelt thanks for your engagement in this crucial dialogue. It is my hope that you'll be moved to integrate these insights into your life, as I continue to weave them into my own journey. Join me, and together let's reshape the narrative around death—one conversation at a time.

We dive into:

(00:22 - 02:22) Talking to Children About Death
(15:27 - 16:53) Children's Energy Awareness and Hospice Nursing
(22:53 - 24:53) Following Your Heart
(30:08 - 31:31) Teaching Children About Death and Purpose

RESOURCES TO TALK WITH CHILDREN ABOUT DEATH:

Navigating conversations about death with children can be incredibly challenging, yet it's crucial for their understanding and coping. Based on the available resources and their focus on providing compassionate, clear, and supportive guidance, here are the top three resources that are highly regarded for helping to talk to children about death:

1. *The Dougy Center* - The Dougy Center offers comprehensive support for children, teens, young adults, and families grieving a death. They provide thoughtful resources, including tip sheets and activity books, specifically designed to help children understand and process grief. Their approach is widely recognized for being both empathetic and effective, making them a leading resource in grief support. - Source: [The Dougy Center](https://deathwithdignity.org/news/202...)

2. *Tomorrow's Rainbow* - Tomorrow's Rainbow specializes in providing free grief support to children and teens who have experienced the death of a loved one. Their approach emphasizes honesty and clear communication, offering resources and tip sheets on how to discuss death and suicide with children. Their best practice advice for telling the truth after a death aims to support healthy coping mechanisms. - Source: [Tomorrow's Rainbow](https://www.tomorrowsrainbow.org/reso...)

3. *Sesame Street Resources* - Sesame Street has developed sensitive and age-appropriate resources to facilitate discussions about death with young children. Their materials, including videos, articles, and activities, are designed to help children express their feelings and ask questions in a safe environment. Known for its gentle and caring approach, Sesame Street's resources are particularly suited for younger children. - Source: [Today's Parent](https://www.todaysparent.com/family/f...)

Each of these resources provides unique tools and strategies aimed at facilitating conversations about death in a manner that is compassionate and appropriate for children. Whether through direct support, practical advice, or engaging educational materials, they offer valuable assistance to caregivers seeking to guide children through the complexities of grief and loss. For anyone looking to explore these topics more deeply or seeking support in guiding a child through such conversations, these resources present a great starting point.

Remember, the goal is to provide a safe space for children to express their feelings, ask questions, and receive the support they need and brining death back as the natural, sacred experience it was meant to be.

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Talking "Doula Houses" with Kim Adams from The Omega Home Network

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Reimagining End of Life Care with Kim Adams and Community-Based Care

Imagine the impact of a world where the final stage of life is met with compassion, dignity, and a return to the caring embrace of community.

That's the transformative vision Kim Adams, a passionate advocate in the death and dying movement, and I discuss during an enlightening conversation on end-of-life care. As we traverse the topics of home funerals, green burials, and the necessity for community homes for the dying, we uncover the profound differences these services make for those facing their twilight years without the support of family.

Venturing into the realm of the Omega Home Network, we shed light on the inspiring endeavor to create non-medical, social model homes that serve as an alternative to traditional medical facilities. These havens prioritize the human experience over clinical treatment, offering around-the-clock caregiving as an extension of family. We examine the collaborative spirit that forges multiple homes into a collective, emphasizing the importance of local support and the synergy with hospice services. Our discussion navigates the complexities of regulations, ethical considerations, and the practical steps involved in establishing these compassionate communities.

In an era when the conversation around death is often shrouded in discomfort, our dialogue aims to dismantle taboos and foster open discussions about end-of-life care. We explore how the upcoming conference in Indianapolis can serve as a nexus for education, networking, and the sharing of resources to aid in the creation of non-medical care homes. By extending an invitation to join this movement, we underscore our shared commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to a dignified and 'good death.' Join us on this journey to reimagine the final chapters of life as a celebration of legacy, love, and community care.

We dive into:

(00:00 - 00:21) Unity Through Shared Experiences
(06:30 - 07:33) The Family's Role in End-of-Life Care
(13:45 - 14:36) Importance of End-of-Life Awareness
(20:47 - 23:03) Global Doula House Expansion Plans
(26:55 - 27:44) Community Collaboration for Social Change

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Difference Between Ego and Heart Guidance

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Mastering Life's Choices: Harmonizing the Ego and the Heart

Have you ever felt torn between the whispers of your heart and the logic of your mind?

Our latest conversation delves into the profound realization that we navigate life with not one, but two internal compasses: the ego and the heart. Together, we explore the subtle yet powerful cues these guides offer and introduce the 'Ray technique,' a transformative tool I've developed to help you harmonize these distinct voices. As we embark on this journey, you'll learn to choose love over fear, reshaping not just your personal narrative but also contributing to our collective human tapestry with every heart-led step you take.

Embarking on a voyage through varying states of consciousness can be as disorienting as it is enlightening. In this conversation, we traverse from the fog of unconscious living, where the ego often leads us astray, to the clarity of a superconscious state, where our true purpose aligns with service to others. The empowering concept of co-creation with the universe is illuminated, contrasting the effortless flow of life's currents with the struggle of ego-driven force. Discover how consulting your heart can provide solutions of a higher wisdom, fostering a deeper connection within and to the world around you.

Sometimes life demands a leap of faith, and I share my own experience of uprooting my life from the familiarity of New York City to the unknown of Charlotte, North Carolina. The universe spoke in angel numbers, offering peace and affirmation in a time of turmoil. I extend an invitation to all listeners to embark on a profound personal transformation with our free Level One End of Life Doula training. This isn't just about acquiring new skills; it's an opportunity to rediscover your passion for life and align with your true calling. Join us and see where your heart leads you.

We dive into:

(03:46 - 05:14) The Power of Saying Yes
(09:20 - 10:43) Holistic Understanding From End-of-Life Patients
(14:19 - 15:41) Understanding and Shifting Your Ego
(17:37 - 19:26) The Power of Alignment and Co-Creation
(25:31 - 27:21) Finding Signs on Your Path

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

How to Make a Support System Scheduler for Care of the Dying

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Navigating the Tender Journey of Caregiving in Life's Final Chapter

Can we truly bear the weight of end-of-life care alone, or do we need a village to carry us through?

Join me, Suszanne O'Brien, as I tackle the often-overlooked yet essential questions that underpin the daily life of those offering care in the final chapters of a loved one's life. In the heartfelt journey of caregiving, I shed light on the acute and safety issues that cannot be ignored, and underscore the importance of a support system scheduler – a cornerstone in preventing caregiver burnout and ensuring the comfort of our dear ones as they near the end. By weaving in the moving tale of a daughter accompanying her father through his last days, I paint a vivid picture of the profound impact caregiving has on families and the undeniable necessity of a well-structured support network.

As we navigate through the complexities of end-of-life care, this conversation extends beyond the immediate caregiver to the broader community. I discuss how a carefully coordinated support system, facilitated by a scheduler, can transform the daunting task of caregiving into a shared labor of love, efficiently involving friends and family in the care journey. Not only does this approach lift the shroud of isolation often felt by caregivers, but it also provides a pathway for others to offer support in meaningful ways, from meal trains to maintaining a tranquil environment for both the living and the dying. This episode goes further to offer hope and direction for those who feel called to this deeply rewarding work, announcing an upcoming free training for aspiring death doulas, fostering a future where compassionate end-of-life care is the norm, not the exception.

We dive into:

(10:29 - 11:41) Caregiver Support for End of Life
(17:25 - 18:56) Supporting Patients and Caregivers

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

What Makes a Great Death Doula

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Embracing Life's Final Transition: The Role and Impact of Death Doulas

My journey as a hospice nurse revealed gaps and limitations in end-of-life care, inspiring me to advocate for a more compassionate approach.

Stepping away from the sterile hospital corridors, we enter the realm of Death Doulas—unsung heroes who offer support, comfort, and dignity to those on their final journey. Today's conversation unwraps the intricate layers of becoming a Death Doula, highlighting the significance of proper training, early planning for end-of-life wishes, and the transformative effect of personalized care.

The parallels between birth and death doulas are undeniable; both shepherd us through life's most profound transitions with grace and empathy. In this episode, we dissect the shortcomings of the hospice system, the fear surrounding death, and the necessity for a reliable presence during our last moments. The global death doula movement, born from a desire to educate and support, exemplifies the power of community-driven care, especially in the face of global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, where traditional healthcare systems faltered under the weight of unprecedented strain.

As we wrap up our heartfelt exchange, I share insights into the comprehensive training that enables Death Doulas to enrich end-of-life experiences. From practical guides to evidence-based care plans, the tools at our disposal are designed to empower those without previous experience to step confidently into this role. We explore the rewarding opportunity for a sustainable livelihood in this field, the importance of self-care, and the overarching goal to reframe death as a natural, human experience—handled with kindness, education, and unyielding support.

We dive into:

(00:56 - 02:16) Importance of Researching Death Doula Training
(09:36 - 11:26) The Global Death Doula Movement
(16:39 - 19:14) Knowledge and Support in End-of-Life Care
(21:12 - 22:39) Self-Care in the Medical Field
(25:54 - 26:37) Doulagiver Practitioner Course Details
(33:22 - 34:33) Challenges and Solutions in Hospice Care

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

The Night I Slept in a Church

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Volunteer Chronicles: A Night of Compassion and Connection

Have you ever been awakened by a profound sense of community and connection?

Prepare to journey through an extraordinary night where Maple, my trusty canine companion, and I found ourselves amidst the sanctity of a Fifth Avenue church turned women's shelter. This sacred encounter wasn't just another New York City anecdote; it was a transformative experience, fueled by compassion and the unwavering spirit of an elderly woman's dedication to those in need. Embark with me as we traverse a heartfelt story from opening the shelter doors to the emotional realizations of how a simple act of kindness can echo through the lives of many.

Our passage doesn't end at dawn. We take a deep exploration into the tapestry of human consciousness, traversing the realms from a state of disconnection to the pinnacle of a superconscious unity. No guest is needed when the protagonists are the very stages of our collective human experience. From the echo of footsteps in a silent church hall to the life-changing philosophy behind selfless service, this episode is an odyssey of the soul. It's a testament to the unseen threads that weave us all together, and a reminder that within each of us lies the potent frequency of oneness. Tune in, and let's illuminate the power of community, compassion, and the transformative act of listening.

We dive into:

(00:02 - 01:59) Understanding Our Connected World
(04:00 - 05:35) Helping Women in a Church Shelter
(14:08 - 17:02) The Power of Selfless Service

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

How to Hold A Death Cafe to Start Your Death Doula Business

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Embracing Life's Final Chapter: The Rise of Death Cafes and Starting a Death Doula Business

Ever wondered how the contemplation of mortality could enrich your life?

Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as I lead you through the enlightening world of Death Cafes and reveal the secret to starting a Death Doula business. We embark on a journey from the inception of Death Cafes by Bernard Crettaz to their global spread, thanks to John Underwood's vision. I'll share my personal experience of launching a Death Cafe in Millerton, New York, a place where profound community dialogues about death led to an unexpected deepening of life's appreciation. Discover how these unique gatherings create a nurturing environment where the taboo of death is explored and embraced, paving the way for meaningful conversations and community bonds.

In the second act of our meaningful conversation, I take you behind the scenes of building a Death Doula practice, offering practical advice and heartfelt insights from my own transition from hospice nurse to creating a comprehensive end-of-life care program. I touch on the essence of being prepared, the intensity of supporting a family in their moment of need, and the importance of having a solid resource list. You will hear how Death Cafes can be a cornerstone for growth, both personally and professionally, for those in the Death Doula vocation. I conclude with the inspiring tale of how an accidental step led to the formation of a global community of practitioners, encouraging you to heed the call to service and experience the profound fulfillment it brings.

We dive into:

(00:30 - 01:59) The Global Movement of Death Cafes
(05:57 - 08:06) Death Cafes and Death Doulas' Importance
(11:00 - 11:49) Death Doula Platform Building
(17:04 - 18:14) Building Business and Serving Community

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

How to Obtain Happiness and Life Mastery

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Embracing Universal Life Mastery with the RIPA Technique: Insights for a Purposeful Existence

Have you ever considered the profound lessons that life's final moments can teach us about living?

Embark on a transformative journey with me, Suzanne O'Brien, as I introduce the RIPA technique, inspired by the wisdom of those in the twilight of their lives. This isn't just a regular self-help talk; it's a gateway to universal life mastery, encouraging you to live with intention, love, and higher wisdom. Through Remembering, Interpreting, Practicing, and Aligning, we'll navigate the waters of heart-centered living and view life's hurdles as stepping stones for spiritual growth. Discover the art of interpreting life's lessons with a renewed perspective, and let's together make a meaningful impact on the collective soul of humanity.

In this heartwarming episode, you'll hear the stories that have shaped my approach to life and death, and how the clarity that often comes at the end can illuminate our entire existence. We'll delve into the transformative nature of forgiveness and the importance of embracing our challenges as opportunities to evolve spiritually. By adopting the RIPA method, you're not just changing your life; you're contributing to a world brimming with love and positive growth. So, join us for a conversation that promises to shift your perspective on your journey and the ripple effect you create around you. And remember, this is more than a podcast; it's an invitation to walk a path of enlightened living and to spread that light far and wide.

We dive into:

(03:19 - 04:55) Spiritual Wisdom in Life's Journey
(07:36 - 08:29) Finding Lessons and Forgiveness for Growth
(11:57 - 12:52) The Importance of Practicing Being

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

How The Death Doula Training is a Life Course

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Journey Beyond the Ego to Spiritual Fulfillment

Ever wondered how the wisdom gleaned from the brink of life's final chapter could illuminate your day-to-day existence?

That's exactly what we uncover in our latest episode, where I, Suzanne O'Brien, delve into the unexpected life lessons from my path as a Death Doula. It's an exploration that takes us from the heart-wrenching moments of end-of-life care to the heart-led decisions that guide us towards a life of joy, flow, and yes, even miracles.

As we share stories of personal transformation, I open up about the profound impact listening to my heart over my ego has had on my life choices, including the inspired leap to write a book. This episode is an invitation to step away from the scarcity mindset and lean into the abundance of love and strength that comes from aligning with the universe's higher purpose. Prepare to challenge your perceptions of what's possible and embrace the power of living a life that's true to your heart's deepest guidance.

To cap off our journey, we look ahead to the "Universal Life Mastery" webinar, a space where we continue to unravel the threads of purpose and potential that weave through our lives. I'm thrilled to have you with me on this transformative voyage, and together, we'll celebrate the courage it takes to create not just a good life, but an extraordinary one. Whether through selfless volunteering or stepping out on faith, we're here to support each other in unlocking an existence filled with meaning and connection. Join me, and let's begin crafting the remarkable chapters of our own stories.

We dive into:

(04:59 - 06:33) The Meaning of a Good Death
(11:32 - 12:36) Inspired Guidance and Life Transformation
(15:58 - 17:59) Finding Your Purpose Through Energetic Alignment
(19:49 - 20:58) Fear of Death and Life Lessons
(25:02 - 26:40) Remembering Our Spiritual Existence
(28:38 - 30:37) Connecting to Higher Frequency and Consciousness
(34:02 - 36:04) Embrace Life's Opportunities for a Fulfilling Death

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

How to Make a Full Time Income as a Death Doula

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0500

The Sacred Work of a Death Doula Explored

Discover the profound lessons and transformative experiences that arise from the unique and deeply meaningful work of a Death Doula.

Embrace insights that will not only change how you view the end of life but also how you live each day to its fullest. Embark on an exploration of what it truly means to generate a sustainable income as a Death Doula. Learn about the Doulagivers Specialist Practitioner certification and the diverse range of services it encompasses, from elder care to grief support—all vital for creating a holistic practice that truly serves the needs of the dying and their families.

This episode uncovers the identity of the true client in end-of-life care, often the adult children of aging parents, while addressing common pitfalls new Death Doulas may encounter. Reflections on the changing landscape post-COVID-19 illuminates the critical role of Death Doulas in facilitating meaningful end-of-life experiences. Tune in for a candid discussion about the intersection of life, death, and the profound impact of those who guide us through our final chapters.

We dive into:

(01:30 - 02:23) Recognizing Calling, Balancing Work Hours
(02:24 - 04:41) Importance of Balance in End-of-Life Care
(06:17 - 07:11) Elder Support and End of Life Planning
(12:05 - 14:29) Expanding the Role of End-of-Life Doulas
(17:29 - 18:49) Benefits of Care Consultant's Power
(25:23 - 25:50) Crisis in Elder Care

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Pain Management for the Dying

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Compassionate Pain Relief in End-of-Life Care: Understanding Management and Medication

When the shadows of life grow long and the light at the end of the tunnel becomes clear, pain management becomes a paramount concern for both patients and caregivers.

In our latest heartfelt episode, we venture into the delicate realm of ensuring comfort for those on their sacred final journey. Addressing the elephant in the room, we dispel common myths surrounding pain medication at the end of life, reassuring you that these treatments are there to soothe, not to hasten the inevitable. We take a closer look at the different types of pain, and how a meticulous approach to pain management can transform a patient's end-of-life experience into one of peace and dignity.

Imagine witnessing a loved one's serene transition, free from the clutches of discomfort and pain. Our discussion brings to light a case where a patient's shingles-induced nerve pain was managed effectively through precise medication logs and timely intervention, exemplifying the profound impact of proactive pain relief strategies. The collaboration between caregivers and hospice nurses is nothing short of inspiring, highlighting the importance of a detailed logbook and the foresight to administer relief before pain escalates. Together, we explore the art of pain management that allows for cherished final moments with family and friends.

As we conclude this episode, we not only share the essentials of a hospice comfort kit but also extend an invitation to our upcoming free training webinars. These sessions are designed to enrich your capacity to provide compassionate care and to embrace the end-of-life process as a natural, shared experience. It's a journey we navigate together, and your participation is invaluable. So join us for more insights, as we continue to support each other in this profound aspect of life on Ask a Death Doula.

We dive into:

(00:05 - 03:53) Pain Management at End of Life
(03:54 - 04:49) Addressing Addiction Concerns in End-of-Life Care
(06:06 - 08:14) End-of-Life Pain
(21:07 - 22:47) Use of Lorazepam in Medical Treatment
(25:40 - 26:44) Understanding the Death Rattle
(29:45 - 30:44) Sublingual Medications for End of Life

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

What Is An ”After Death Plan” And Why It’s Important To Have One

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 04:30:00 -0500

Exploring the Empowering Facets of Death and Dying

Can we truly embrace life without acknowledging its end?

This poignant question is at the heart of today's transformative discussion as we delve into the empowering and healing aspects of end-of-life planning. Sharing insights from my years as a hospice nurse and my training in Level 1 Doulagiver's family caregiver training, we explore the importance of creating an after-death plan and voicing our wishes for after we pass, and how this can shift our perspective on our everyday life.

Our journey begins with a deep dive into end-of-life care and its many facets. We focus on the need to slow down, be present, and embrace the idea of home funerals - a topic that is often met with hesitance. Through open and candid discussions, we highlight how crucial conversations with family about after-death plans can profoundly impact the grieving process. We also touch on the legal considerations, planning, and the potential healing quality of a home wake.

We then move on to the more personalized aspects of after-death plans and celebrations. You're given a glimpse into the myriad of choices available for what happens to your body after death, including eco-friendly options such as water cremation and human composting. We also explore the importance of planning for a life celebration or memorial and the power of leaving behind a special letter or memento. I hope that this conversation inspires and empowers you to take an active role in your end-of-life planning, leading you to a new realization of the joy and beauty of life. Join us as we break the silence around death and dying, and together, let's celebrate life in all its phases.

We dive into:

(02:49 - 04:11) Grief Healing Through End of Life Training
(10:12 - 11:55) Being Present in Grief
(16:02 - 16:58) Supporting End-of-Life Choices for Loved Ones
(20:01 - 21:45) The Power of Three-Day Home Wakes
(26:06 - 26:59) After Death Disposition

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Exploring The Transformative Power of Love and Grief: A Conversation with Dr. Karen Wyatt

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 04:30:00 -0500

Lessons of Love and Letting Go from Hospice Care

What if embracing death could enrich your daily life? Join us as we navigate this profound exploration with our cherished guest, Dr. Karen Wyatt.

A transformative journey awaits, as Dr. Wyatt shares her personal story of finding meaning and purpose in the wake of her father's suicide, eventually leading her to a rewarding career as a hospice physician.

Discussion takes a turn towards the deep end as we delve into the world of hospice care, unfolding the transformative power it holds over death and its spiritual growth. Dr. Wyatt enlightens us on how these experiences have shown her the importance of love while dealing with pain and forgiveness. We also touch upon the cultural shift needed in our perception of death and the support we extend to our healthcare professionals.

The conversation graduates to the insights from Dr. Wyatt's inspiring book, "The Tao of Death". Drawing from this, we discuss how death can be a mindful part of our lives, and how embracing it can ultimately enrich our existence. We conclude the episode with some practical tools to help you connect with your higher self and find peace in life’s turbulent waters. This episode is your gateway to comfort, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.

We dive into:

(01:25 - 02:22) Finding Purpose in End-of-Life Care
(05:33 - 07:16) Trusting and Following Higher Guidance
(09:05 - 10:33) Love and Compassion in a Divided World
(15:21 - 17:27) Compassion, Kindness, and Unity in Chaos
(25:06 - 26:25) Inner Light, Embrace Life's Challenges
(30:13 - 31:05) The Power of Forgiveness
(33:40 - 35:07) Letting Go and Finding Spaciousness

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
The Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Family Caregiver Training AVAILABLE NOW ON DEMAND! Listen Now (edited)

Learn more about Dr Karen Wyatt - Click here!

Check out Karen's books in Amazon - Click here!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Doulagivers FREE 9 Choice Advance Directive Document Announced

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 04:30:00 -0500

Securing a Positive End-of-Life Experience through Planning

Imagine having the power to dictate the quality and course of your end-of-life care, being able to define what 'quality of life' means for you.

This episode explores just that, with expert insight from Suzanne O'Brien, a former hospice and oncology nurse with years of experience in guiding individuals through this deeply personal journey. Dive into the world of advanced directives and the surprisingly non-binding nature of these documents. Discover the power of the POLST form, a tool that can help ensure your wishes are respected when it matters most.

The conversation doesn't stop there. We navigate the significant role your healthcare proxy plays, shedding light on the importance of defining your personal benchmarks for quality of life and establishing clear communication lines with your loved ones. We'll delve into the nine choices advanced directive document, a comprehensive guide that covers everything from who should voice your desires, to the heartfelt messages you want your loved ones to hold onto. Drawing from a poignant tale of a hospice patient, we're reminded of the simple yet profound joys of life and the importance of maintaining that quality until the very end. Let’s journey together into this solemn yet empowering topic of end-of-life care planning.

You are also invited to join the upcoming Live Learning Lab Workshop to explore these topics further.

We dive into:

(04:23 - 05:14) Seeking Legal Advice for Advanced Directives
(08:26 - 10:39) Understanding Healthcare Proxies
(12:43 - 14:39) Defining Quality of Life and Decision-Making
(16:13 - 17:04) Importance of End-of-Life Care Communication
(25:15 - 26:38) Choosing a Healthcare Proxy and Post Form
(29:08 - 30:19) Creating Sacred End of Life Space
(33:34 - 35:16) Redefining Relationship With End of Life

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
The Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Family Caregiver Training AVAILABLE NOW ON DEMAND! Listen Now (edited)

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

THIS is what happens when end of life wishes are NOT clearly defined.

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 04:30:00 -0500

The importance of Advance Directives: A discussion with Sylvia Cohen

Can you imagine the emotional turmoil and familial discord that arises when end-of-life wishes are not clearly defined?

Get ready to walk in the shoes of Sylvia Cohen as she courageously recounts her personal journey surrounding end-of-life care and the profound impact it had on her family. An enlightening chat about the cultural complexities within a multicultural family in a medical setting awaits you, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting different beliefs and customs. Sylvia also shares her mother's experience with hospice care, highlighting the significance of maintaining a certain quality of life.

As the conversation progresses, Sylvia's journey towards becoming a death doula unfolds. Discover how a death doula can provide invaluable guidance and support during the end-of-life journey, and the critical role of having an advanced directive and 'five wishes' in place. Sylvia's insights on legacy planning and advanced directives advocate for the importance of these topics in end-of-life care discussions. Her story is a testament to the importance of preparedness and fostering a supportive environment during such challenging times.

Finally, we address the topic of legacy planning and advanced directives. Sylvia underscores the need to consider the character traits and abilities of your children when assigning a medical proxy. The conversation stresses the necessity of creating an advanced directive and how it can be a significant gift for both the individual and their loved ones. Sylvia also highlights the importance of crafting a legacy box, revealing how it can serve as a meaningful method of passing on love and education to future generations. Tune in to gain insights from her experiences and join her mission to improve end-of-life care and support for others.

We dive in to:

(00:02) Improving End-of-Life Care and Support

(09:59) Navigating End-of-Life Decisions and Cultural Sensitivities

(16:24) Hospice Care and Quality of Life

(32:42) Challenges With Hospice Care and Communication

(45:08) Death Doula's Role

(50:50) Legacy Planning and Advanced Directives

We want to hear from you!!! If you found this podcast helpful, Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Doulagivers Institute

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
The Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Family Caregiver Training AVAILABLE NOW ON DEMAND! Listen Now (edited)

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A CERTIFIED DEATH DOULA?

JOIN the FREE Death Doula Discovery Webinar on December 14th at 7pm ET Click Here!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Suzanne B. O’Brien Talks with Cathy Yuhas about ”The Hospice Gap”

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0500

How do you envision the end of your life?

What if you could transform that vision from a fear-filled one to a peaceful and sacred experience?

Join us for a heart-to-heart conversation with our guest, Cathy Yuhas, a seasoned nurse specializing in ICU, ER, and hospice care. Cathy shares a powerful, deeply personal story about how a woman's decision to embrace hospice care completely redefined her perception of death, and illuminated the profound importance of planning for the end, free of judgment.

We also explore the glaring gaps that exist in our healthcare system, with a specific focus on the realm of hospice care. Cathy recounts her difficulties navigating the system when her father was dying, emphasizing the desperate need for more education and resources in this area. She provides a detailed overview of the history of hospice care in the United States, highlighting the ongoing challenges it faces due to changing reimbursement structures.

Cathy's journey maps out the transformative power of end-of-life planning. She emphasizes the critical role played by directives like the Medical Order for Scope of Treatment (MOST) form, and how hospice can be a beacon of care. As we wrap up, Cathy opens up about her role as a grief educator, and the importance of love, forgiveness, and comfort in the dying process. Tune in to this poignant episode that offers profound insights into dying and grief, underscoring the importance of living each day to the fullest.

We dive into:

(01:12 - 02:17) Nurse's Journey in Hospice Care
(04:47 - 06:09) Exploring Hospice Care Beauty and Gaps
(12:38 - 13:46) Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment
(17:12 - 18:09) Improving End-of-Life Care Experience
(25:42 - 26:40) The Power of Hospice Care
(30:35 - 31:32) Booklet

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Links mentioned in this episode:

80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:

Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!

Access them Below!

Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
The Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Family Caregiver Training AVAILABLE NOW ON DEMAND! Listen Now (edited)

Learn more about Cathy - Click here!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

What Makes a Good Death? A Good Life! But What Does That Mean?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 03:33:00 -0500

I have been studying what makes a “Good Death” for years. When I was working with end of life patients and their families, I quickly learned that being a part of a positive end of life experience is a blessing.

It not only makes you aware that this natural and guaranteed part of life can be beautiful - but it changes you. It allows you to step into a sacred and wondrous place. It suddenly gives a deeper meaning to life and it exposes you to a new energy and connection that shifts your perspective, heals you, and sets you on a path to discover your higher purpose.

We are all holistic beings that consist of four primary bodies of energy:

Physical Body

Mental Body

Emotional Body

Spiritual Body

At the end of life, as someone's physical body is diminishing, their spiritual body is growing and it is at this time that people get what I call their “spiritual eyes” or “spiritual wisdom”. They become connected to their higher consciousness and the greater part of themselves that opens them up to a newfound perspective and understanding of just about everything!

It is at this time where they say “I get it now! Now I know why all those things happened to me!”

It is like watching someone put all the puzzle pieces of their life together and the clarity, peace, and serenity they find in this moment is indescribable. It is truly magnificent.

But here is what I want you to know… we do not have to wait until the end of our lives to experience this aha! moment we all so desperately want. We can access this higher wisdom and connection right now.

Yes - RIGHT NOW!

We just need to do the work. We need to make a conscious decision to make intentional choices that raise the frequency of our energy so that we can tap into that higher perspective and that inner-knowing right here and right now.

In this week's episode of the Ask a Death Doula Podcast, I am talking with Amanda Kuda about her new book “Unbottled Potential” and we are talking all about the role that alcohol plays in keeping us from connecting to our higher self.

I will tell you right now that working with those at the end of life has taught me everything I know about how to truly LIVE.

How to:

Live a Life of Presence

Live a Life of Purpose

Live a Life of Fulfillment

It is by learning these important life lessons that have been passed on to me by my former patients that you can learn to live an extraordinary life too!

That is why on Thursday, October 26th at 7pm ET I am teaching a LIVE Universal Life Mastery {ULM} Masterclass Webinar where I will be going deeper into these life-changing perspectives and realizations I have been fortunate enough to experience and benefit from in my own life.

I would love for you to join me in this class where we will explore how to find a place of inner peace no matter what your external circumstances may be, how to connect to the higher version of yourself that is waiting to be accessed, and how to find your path and purpose in this life!

Click Here to Register Now!

Learn More About Amanda Kuda here

Get the Book: Unbolted Potential here

P.S. The next FREE Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar will be COMING UP SOON!

Click Here to Register and Share With a Friend!

What is the True Meaning of Life

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 06:30:00 -0500

What is the Meaning of Life?

YES- This is a big question and one that I have sought the answer to for a long time. Ironically, it was when I started to work with the dying, that I learned everything about HOW to LIVE!

We are on the brink of a personal and collective shift. The world is full of chaos, and we are untethered to our spiritual being part of who we are and why we are here.

Join me in this heartfelt conversation with Ron Damico. Ron Damico is an Intuitive Healer, Spiritual Guide, and is at the forefront of leading the New Human Consciousness. He is a master mentor, healer, teacher, and way shower who has been guiding people from all walks of life and backgrounds through the healing and transformation process for over two decades.

In this episode of Ask a Death Doula,

You will learn:

1) How this is the time in our humanity for a big shift in consciousness to take place. We are being called to go from a world running on fear, power, and vitriol to one of love and compassion.

2) How when we raise our individual consciousness, we raise the collective consciousness.

3) How new research in both Neuroscience and Quantum Physics is validating that we can take control of our mind, body, and life to awaken to our highest consciousness.

Click Here to Listen and please Spread the Word!

Links Mentioned in This Episode:

FREE Universal Life Mastery Masterclass Thursday, October 26th 7pm ET Click here

Learn More About Ron Damico Click here

#spirituality #consciousness #healing

How to Navigate and Understand the Many Layers of Grief with NYT Bestselling Author Kris Carr

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0500

It takes an extremely special person to go from being the poster girl of health/wellness and how to live our best lives to talking about grief.

And not just grief we feel when a loved one dies, but grief on all levels and of all kinds.

Could the denial of death, and thus the lack of education and information about grief, be the cause of so much depression, anxiety, and even disease in our world today?

Many of you may not know, but Kris Carr has been a guiding light, mentor, and supportive presence in my journey of creating Doulagivers Institute.

She is ethical, she is wicked smart, and she keeps everything real with an extra-large side of FUN!!!

When she told me she was writing a book about grief, I was so grateful. I know this could not have been an easy choice. I ALSO knew how many people this would invite into this conversation and help.

In this episode of the Ask a Death Doula Podcast, I will be talking to Kris about her new book, “I’m Not A Mourning Person.”

In it, she shares what to expect when you’re not expecting your world to fall apart. In true Kris Carr fashion, it’s raw and inspiring but also has joy, humor, and hope too! This book gives readers tips and strategies to move forward and start living again after experiencing loss.

In this episode, we will discuss:

How LIFE promises you it all - the positive and the challenging parts of the journey and HOW you navigate through the tough times that makes ALL the difference in that experience.

How death awareness can be our greatest teacher about how to live fully.

Beautiful, priceless, and sage life lessons from her late father.

We will all be touched by grief - all kinds of it - and that does not need to be a terrible thing. It is a great reminder of our humanity and how we are so much more alike than we are different.

Death, Grief, and Love are the great equalizers of the world.

Let’s share what we can to support each other through the hard times in the healthiest way possible.

Xoxoxo,

Suzanne

Get the Book "I'm Not a Mourning Person" Click here

Learn more about Kris Carr Click here

More about Doulagivers Institute Click here

We Need to Create ”Outlets” for Grief

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0500

On this episode of Ask a Death Doula,

I had the pleasure of Interviewing Mary Landry, the creator of the My Loved One and Me grief journal.

My Loved One and Me started as a sympathy gift for a friend. It is a guided journal to assist the grieving process by reflecting on how time spent with a loved one can help you to continue to move forward.

To create it, Mary Landry drew upon her professional design background, Tai Chi/Chi Gung/Chinese Medicine training and a lifetime of intuitive experiences. As an Instructional and Graphic Designer, she made the journal inviting and inclusive regardless of belief systems. As an energy healer, Mary honors death as a natural part of life and reminds us of our connection to all. And as someone who has experienced loss and is an empathetic friend, she provides loving support during the quiet moments when comfort is most needed.

You can get the Journal here: Here

Get the FREE Doulagivers Grief Guide Here

For More Information and Death Doula Training, Click HERE

The ”Good Death Book” Officially Announced!

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 09:11:01 -0500

In this episode of Ask a Death Doula,

I'm officially announcing "The Good Death": What to Expect When Your Loved One is Dying and How to Have Positive End of Life Experiences on Your Own Terms Book. Little Brown Spark ( March 2025 )

The book is a step by step guide on how to care for your loved one at the end of life. It includes the vital pre-planning, the actual teachings of how to care for someone dying in all three phases of end of life, and new ways to celebrate, honor and choose final resting places that are financially, environmentally and emotionally healing.

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

Topic #1 How The Good Death became a book

Topic #2 What the reception from the publishing industry was on a book with the topic of "death".

Topic #3 What we hope to accomplish with this book and plans for the future to build a better world for all.

Links Mentioned in This Episode:

FREE LIVE End of Life Family Caregiver Training : Click here

Learn More: Doulagivers Institute Click here: https://www.doulagivers.com

Doulagivers Institute Mission Statement: The way the end of life is handled in the modern world is a dysfunctional mess in which people are pushed into positions they are completely unqualified and unprepared for. This is a direct result of the inadequate information and education available to the general public on the subject of death, as well as the greed and blatant disregard for the needs of patients and families by the institutions they rely on. This is a source of suffering, trauma, and complicated grief for millions of people every year. Doulagivers Institute can shift the culture of end of life by Advocating, Educating, and Empowering people with the truth about death and making high quality resources and educational programs accessible from anywhere in the world. We will cover all aspects of end of life care and become THE place people turn to when faced with this guaranteed part of life. xoxoxo Suzanne Save Your Seat for FREE LIVE End of Life Family Caregiver Training: Register here

Together is how we change the World!- together. xo Suzanne

Ask a Death Doula

March Madness End of Life Edition

How Thinking About Death Makes You Happier

The One Question That Determines Your Good Death

Can Learning About Death Heal Grief?

What the Dying Teach Us About the True Meaning of Love

One Year of The Good Death: The Stories You’ve Shared Changed Everything

The One Thing to Do To Build a Thriving Death Doula Business

Holding Space for Men and Veterans at the End of Life with Adam Daviau

The 3 Types of Pain at the End of Life (and How to Manage Them)

LIFE CAFE is Now WEEKLY: Building a Global Community Built on Love

A Year in Review — Doulagivers Institute 2025 | Global Impact, Compassion & Care

Is The DEATH DOULA Movement DYING?

How Doulagivers is Changing the Face of End-of-Life Care Worldwide

From Pharmacy Tech to Full Time End of Life Doula —How Following Your Calling is Priceless

Service is the New Success

Creating The New Earth: A Return to Heart Guidance

Can Home Wakes Be The Answer To Traumatic Grief with Guest Lee Webster —Former President of the NHFA

LIFTING THE LID Festival of Death and Dying Partnership Announced!!! Interview with founder of the festival —Jo Dagless!

Top Questions To Ask the MD When Given a Serious Diagnosis

When Persistence and Passion ARE the WIN! In Conversation when NYT Bestselling author John Kenney

What is a GOOD DEATH?

The GOOD DEATH BOOK Tour comes to Boise, Idaho!

Talking to Children about Death: My Guardian Angel

What is Your legacy? How to Leave Your Story

Finding Purpose: From Death Doula Training to Community Educator for Ancora Hospice

Experiencing "Moral Injury" In The Healthcare Profession - We Need To Do Better

Turning Grief Into Art: Elizabeth Coplan's Journey With Grief Dialogues

The Caregiver Crisis: Can This One Question Change That?

Healing with Heart: A New Vision for Hospice

Why End-of-Life Planning is the Key to a Good Death

Transformative Care: Supporting Veterans in Their Final Journey

Caring for a Loved One with Dementia? This Information can Change Everything

Reimagining The Funeral Industry with The Modern Mortician

The Elder Care Crisis: Are we ready?

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID): What You Need to Know Before Making This Choice

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with Christine Caldwell

Grief Today and How You Can Heal It

Keeping Death Green: New Burial Options for Body Disposition

What are Home Wakes/Home Funerals? What is a FUNeral? All The Benefits and how to have them.

The 3 Most Common End-of-Life Phenomena Reported Worldwide: Is There Something More?

What Does a Death Doula Do?

The Good Death Seminar Series #8 - What To Do When Families Do Not Agree on End-of-Life Care For a Loved One

The Good Death Seminar Series #7 - How to Have a Family Conversation About Your End-of-Life Wishes- and Why this is One of the GREATEST Gifts You Could Ever Give to Them

The Good Death Seminar Series #6 - How to Ensure the BEST End-of-life Experience for Yourself and the 9 Essential Questions You NEED to Answer

The Good Death Seminar Series #5 - What Quality of Life Means to You and Why This Should Be The Benchmark For How You Choose to Move Forward

The Good Death Seminar Series #4 - What is a Healthcare Proxy, the Incorrect verbiage being used and how do I choose one?

The Good Death Seminar Series #3

The Good Death Seminar Series #2

Talking all Things LIFE with NYT Best Selling Author Kris Carr

The Good Death Seminar Series #1

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5 Things to Help Grief at the Holidays

The Good Death Podcast Series: Dr. Michael Fratkin's Journey from Traditional Medicine to Psychedelic Healing

Heartache to Hope: Navigating Loss and Recovery with Darryl Rodgers, Founder of The Family Recovery Coach

How Being Thankful Can Save Your Life

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Surviving Hurricane Milton

The First Phase of End-of-Life and What You Can Do to Support a Dying Loved One

How To Be A Confident Caregiver

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The History of Death and How it Became the #1 Fear in the World

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Death Doula Global Summit Speaker Spotlight: Ken Ross President of the Elisabeth Kubler Ross Foundation.

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