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

#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

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

Meet our guest:

Dr. Karen Wyatt

Founder, End-of-Life University

Best-selling Author

Website: eulopodcast.com

#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

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

Meet our guest:

Reena Lazar

Owner and Managing Director, Willow EOL Education & Planning

Website: www.willoweol.com

#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

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

Meet our guest:

Dr. Qwynn Galloway-Salazar

Founder — In Their Honor, LLC (ITH)

Website: intheirhonor.info

#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

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

Meet our guest:

Krista Montague, CDP, AT-BC

Founder, Dementia Success Path

Website: dementiasuccesspath.com

#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

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

Meet our guest:

Melissa Meadow

The Modern Mortician

Website: www.themodernmortician.com

#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

#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

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:

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. 

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

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

Links mentioned in this episode:

Meet our guest:

Christine Caldwell

Founder and Executive Director, End of Life Psychedelic Care

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!

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

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

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!

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