In this episode of Crossing the Alameda, hosts Mike 'Kliner' Kline, Kari Morin, Charles Michelet and A.J. Riebli reconnect with the class of 1991, featuring guest Beth Riffel-Cavanaugh. The conversation explores Beth's journey from Santa Clara to her career in nursing and hospice care, her experiences in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, and her insights on life, death, and the importance of relationships. The discussion also touches on the impact of narrative medicine and the transitions of life as children grow up and leave home. The episode concludes with light-hearted Fast Five questions, showcasing Beth's personality and humor.

Chapters

00:00 Reconnecting with Old Friends

03:16 Beth's Journey to Santa Clara

05:51 Memories from the Dorm Days

08:36 Reflections on College Life

11:26 Life After Santa Clara: A New Path

14:11 The Transition to Nursing

17:06 Experiences in Hospice Care

19:58 Writing and Sharing Wisdom

22:33 Navigating Family Dynamics and Death

25:53 Navigating Family Dynamics in End-of-Life Care

28:03 The Beauty of Death and Dying

30:29 Embracing Life Transitions and Empty Nest Syndrome

31:39 The Intersection of Narrative Medicine and Empathy

35:49 The Courage to Pursue New Opportunities

39:01 Reflections on a Good Life

41:50 Fast Five: Fun and Personal Insights