Dear Psychopomp: Let's Talk About Death

Whisper into the void..

In this episode of Dear Psychopomp, we delve into a topic that often remains hidden behind societal taboos: the financial and emotional burden of death. Join me as I speak with Amy Shea, author of Too Poor to Die, whose work highlights the absurdity and heartbreak surrounding our end-of-life rituals.

Amy shares her journey into this deeply human experience, beginning with her father's work mapping cemeteries in Fresno, California. This project revealed the existence of Potter's Fields—public cemeteries where individuals without financial means are buried. She describes how the stark contrast between a lush Catholic cemetery and the barren Potter's Field next door was a pivotal moment that pushed her into this world of research and advocacy.

As our conversation unfolds, we reflect on the emotional weight of these realities. The juxtaposition of beautiful cemeteries with hidden Potter's Fields serves as a powerful reminder of the inequities that persist even in death. Together, we explore how society can shift its perspective on death to honor every individual's life, regardless of their financial status.

This thought-provoking discussion invites us to consider our own relationships with death and dying. How can we advocate for change and ensure that every person receives dignity in their final moments? 

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

Join us as Jack Raymond shares his journey through grief, writing, and healing, exploring how loss shapes our lives and the power of self-expression.

 grief, writing, healing, loss, mental health, personal growth, emotional resilience, death, self-awareness, storytelling

Jay Raymond - Facebook - https://facebook.com/JayRaymond
Ambient Light - Facebook Group - https://facebook.com/groups/ambientlight

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

In this episode of Dear Psychopomp, host Anne-Marie engages in a profound conversation with Joe Diamond, the Midwest Mystic. They explore the intersections of art, spirituality, and the unknown, discussing how Joe's work as a mind reader and performer allows him to connect with people during emotionally charged moments. The conversation delves into the importance of embracing mystery, the role of rituals and ceremonies in human experience, and the significance of empathy in understanding others. Joe shares insights on psychometry, the connection between objects and their histories, and the transformative power of art in society. Ultimately, they reflect on life, death, and the sacred mysteries that shape our existence, leaving listeners with a sense of wonder and curiosity.

Joe Diamond, Midwest Mystic, mind reading, spirituality, paranormal, art, empathy, psychometry, life and death, mystery

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

Join Anne-Marie and Lauren Seeley in a heartfelt conversation about grief, memorialization, and creative healing. Discover how art and community can transform the grieving process and honor loved ones in meaningful ways.

grief, memorialization, death, art therapy, community, loss, healing, mortality, creative expression, death doula

Lauren Seeley's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aahsweetdeath/
Morbid Anatomy Workshop - https://morbid anatomy.org/
Hamnet - Movie Recommendation - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10366460/

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

In this episode, Dear Psychopomp explores the complex nature of grief, the importance of accepting reality, and how to navigate emotional healing. With personal insights and practical advice, listeners are encouraged to embrace their pain and find balance in life.

grief, acceptance, emotional healing, mental health, self-growth, mindfulness, life balance

Global Grief Network - https://globalgriefnetwork.com
Grief Talk Magazine - https://grieftalkmagazine.com
Tony Lynch on Instagram - https://instagram.com/mensgriefsupport

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

In this episode, I answer a humbling question from a listener: 

What would I do differently today if I knew I only had 24 hours left to live.

Let's contemplate our mortality together, let's talk about regrets and trauma.

And of course, Let's Talk About Death. 

___________________

mortality, self-love, authenticity, life lessons, imperfection, death doula, personal growth, mindfulness, living fully, emotional healing

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

death, death doula, funerary practices, history of death care, doula bag essentials, coaching for caregivers, end of life care, rituals, grief support, palliative care

In this episode of Dear Psychopomp, Anne-Marie delves into the history and evolution of death care, exploring the role of death doulas and the essential items they carry in their doula bags. 

The conversation highlights the significance of rituals and ceremonies in death care, the transformation of funerary practices over time, and practical tips for those in the field. Additionally, Anne-Marie introduces her coaching services aimed at first responders and caregivers dealing with death and grief; she can be reached at [email protected]

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

death, compassion, empathy, healing, online cruelty, mental health, Charlie Kirk, tragedy, humanity, respect


In this episode, we reflect on the tragic death of Charlie Kirk, emphasizing a need for compassion and empathy in the face of loss. The conversation critiques the online culture of cruelty and desensitization surrounding tragedies, urging listeners to recognize the human impact of such events. 

This isn't about agreeing or disagreeing with Charlie's views.
We need to talk about the growing culture of cruelty.
If we lose our empathy, we lose the thread that holds us together.
You are responsible for your healing, and healing is not linear.
The biggest gifts from the universe are time and energy.
You are how you show up for yourself and for others.
Everything is temporary. Are you happy right now?
Protect your energy. Protect your peace.
Let's be better. Let's be kinder.
Don't die mad, grumpy, and miserable.

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

death doula, grief, self-inquiry, emotional resilience, training, certification, community, resources, end of life, personal reflection

takeaways

• Start volunteering to explore your interest in death work.
• Self-inquiry is essential before becoming a death doula.
• Understanding your own relationship with death is crucial.
• Grief needs tending; don't rush into this work if you're grieving.
• Emotional resilience is key when supporting dying individuals.
• There are no formal educational prerequisites to become a death doula.
• Community support among doulas is vital for success.
• Explore various modalities to enhance your doula practice.
• Utilize online resources and courses to expand your knowledge.
• Talking about death should be normalized in society.

Book recommendations: bookshop.org/DearPsychopomp 

Finding Peace at the End of Life - Henry Ferso-Weiss, LCSW: https://bookshop.org/a/111637/9781590035023

The Needs of the Dying - David Kessler - available online (I can't find a bookshop link for this one)

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp

Whisper into the void..

death doula, end of life, emotional support, spiritual support, pre-planning, grief, legacy work, acceptance, mental resilience, funeral poverty

In this episode, I express my never-ending gratitude for the podcast's growth and introduce the concept of Death Doulas. We discuss roles, emotional support, and the importance of pre-planning. The conversation delves into various scenarios that doulas may encounter, emphasizing the need for emotional resilience and understanding in end-of-life care.

Find Amy Shea's new book at: https://bookshop.org/a/111637/9781978843998

You can find me online at Linktr.ee/DearPsychopomp