Don't Be Caught Dead

By Catherine Ashton

Don't Be Caught Dead is a podcast about the conversations most of us avoid — until we’re forced to have them.

Each episode brings you honest, accessible conversations with <

... more

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FAQs about Don't Be Caught Dead:

How many episodes does Don't Be Caught Dead have?

The podcast currently has 111 episodes available.

Don't Be Caught Dead episodes:

September 11, 2024 Dead for 93 Minutes: Cardiac Arrest Survival after NDE with Justine Phillips
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
In this episode of Don't Be Caught Dead, I’m sitting down with the incredible Justine Phillips, a sudden cardiac arrest survivor and founder of Heart Matters Australia. Justine shares her jaw-dropping story of being clinically dead for 93 minutes – yes, 93 minutes – before her heart miraculously restarted. It’s a story of resilience, survival, and the determination of her family and paramedics who refused to give up on her.
We talk about the life-saving importance of CPR and defibrillation, and how knowing these skills can literally mean the difference between life and death. Justine also opens up about the emotional toll her cardiac arrest had on her family, especially her children, who had to perform CPR under the guidance of emergency operators.
During our conversation, Justine clears up the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest (there’s more to it than you might think!) and busts some common myths around these critical health issues. Through her organisation, Heart Matters Australia, she’s on a mission to educate communities on how to perform effective CPR and use defibrillators, all with the aim of saving lives and reducing trauma for families in the aftermath of cardiac events.
We also dive into the bigger picture – how surviving a near-death experience has changed her outlook on life, shifted her priorities, and led her to embrace breathwork as a way to process what happened. This is more than a survival story; it’s a powe
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/

...more
57min
September 04, 2024Death on Your Terms: Navigating Voluntary Assisted Dying with Jane Morris
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
In this episode of "Don't Be Caught Dead", I sit down with Jane Morris, President of Dying with Dignity Victoria, to unpack the complex journey of voluntary assisted dying legislation in Australia. From its controversial beginnings to its current stringent implementation, we delve into the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing struggles in the fight for end-of-life choices.
Jane takes us on a captivating historical journey, starting with the formation of the Voluntary Euthanasia Society of Victoria in 1974. We explore pivotal moments like the groundbreaking Rights of the Terminally Ill Act in the Northern Territory in 1995, and the tireless advocacy of Dr Rodney Syme. The conversation paints a vivid picture of the societal and political battles fought over decades, culminating in Victoria's landmark legislation in 2017.
But the story doesn't end there. Jane provides an eye-opening look at the current state of voluntary assisted dying in Victoria, detailing the stringent eligibility criteria and complex process individuals must navigate. We discuss the controversial 'gag clause' that prevents doctors from initiating conversations about VAD, and the logistical challenges faced by rural residents. This episode offers a comprehensive overview of where we stand and the work that still needs to be done to ensure dignified end-of-life choices for all Australians.
Key points from our discussion:
The history of Dying with Dignity Victoria, dating b
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/
...more
1h 28min
August 28, 2024From Tragedy to Transformation: How Three Mates are Revolutionising Mental Health Conversations
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode covers the topic of suicide

In a world where mental health struggles often go unspoken, three young blokes from Melbourne are turning their personal tragedies into a powerful force for change. Meet Ben Farish, one of the founders of Speak and Share, a charity that's taking Australia by storm with its mission to normalise mental health conversations and prevent suicide.
Born from the depths of their own mental health battles during the COVID lockdown, Ben and his mates, Nathan and Mason, transformed their pain into purpose.

After losing a close friend to suicide, experiencing family upheaval, and grappling with grief, these three teachers realised the dire need for open, honest conversations about mental health.

What started as a simple Instagram account sharing funny skits with positive mental health messages has now blossomed into a medium-sized charity running programs in schools, sporting clubs, and workplaces across Australia.
But Speak and Share isn't just another mental health organisation. With their iconic sunflower logo symbolising strength and community, and their sought-after merchandise drops, they've created a movement that's as cool as it is crucial.

Their approach is all about prevention, starting conversations early, and creating a world where speaking about mental health is as natural as talking about the weather.

Key Takeaways:

Vulnera
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/
...more
43min
August 21, 2024 Eco-Friendly Farewells: Water Cremation's Splash in the Death Care Industry
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
Ever wondered if there's a kinder way to say goodbye to your loved ones? Most of us are aware of burials and cremations, but have you heard of water cremation?

Luke Cripps is a Director at Alluvium Water Cremations, established in 2023 with Director Brendan Cooper to bring a gentle, affordable, and eco-friendly method of final disposition to families in Tasmania, Australia.

Luke has worked in the death space both practically and theoretically in Tasmania for the better part of a decade, and has a particular interest in the intersection of end-of-life practices and what it might mean to live well.

Built on the founding principles of dignity, transparency, and sustainability, Alluvium Water Cremations are proud to support Tasmanian families to make informed choices around their end-of-life decisions.

In this eye-opening episode, we dive into the world of water cremation. Discover how this innovative process is revolutionising the way we approach death care in Australia.
Luke takes us on a fascinating journey through the ins and outs of water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis. We explore how this process differs from traditional flame cremation and burial, and why many families are finding comfort in its gentler approach. From the soothing sound of trickling water to the preservation of more remains, water cremation offers a unique and environmentally friendly option for those looking to make mindful choices ab
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/

...more
1h 11min
August 14, 2024A Grief Counsellor's Personal and Professional Reflections on Grief and Loss
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
Have you ever wondered what to say to someone who’s grieving? Or felt unsure about how to handle your own grief? In this episode, I chat with Bryan Petheram, a counsellor and group facilitator from Griefline, about the complexities of grief and how we can better support ourselves and others through loss.
Bryan shares his journey from being a police officer to becoming a grief counsellor, offering unique insights into how our understanding of grief has evolved. We discuss the importance of acknowledging loss, the power of language in grief, and why it’s crucial to avoid platitudes like “at least…” when comforting someone who’s grieving. Bryan emphasises that there’s no “right” way to grieve and explains how grief can change as we age and experience different losses.
We also delve into the practical aspects of grief support, including when it might be time to seek professional help and the various services Griefline offers. Whether you’re supporting a grieving friend or navigating your own loss, this episode provides valuable insights and strategies for dealing with grief in a healthy, compassionate way.

Key points from the episode:
The evolution of grief understanding: from stages to a non-linear process
The importance of acknowledging loss and using clear language about death
Why saying “I’m sorry for your loss” might not be the best approach
How to support someone who’s grieving: be present, not perfect
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/
...more
1h 4min
August 07, 2024Breaking the Stigma of Loneliness: The Hidden Epidemic with Dr. Michelle Lim
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
In honour of Dying to Know Day and Loneliness Awareness Week Australia, this week I chat with Associate Professor Michelle Lim, the inaugural CEO and Scientific Chair of Ending Loneliness Together.
Michelle dives deep into the pervasive issue of loneliness and how it affects us all, especially those dealing with the death of a loved one.
Michelle explains that loneliness is often misunderstood and concealed, with one in two Australians feeling lonely yet hiding it. We talk about how to approach conversations around loneliness respectfully, ensuring that we don’t invalidate someone's feelings or assume that what works for one person will work for another.
Michelle’s insights are both enlightening and practical, offering ways to support those who feel isolated.
We also touch on the significant difference between loneliness and social isolation, and why it’s essential to understand this distinction. Michelle shares her thoughts on how loneliness can still be felt even when surrounded by people, and why meaningful social connections are crucial.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better understand and support loved ones experiencing loneliness, particularly after a significant loss.
Key Points:
Understanding the hidden nature of loneliness and how to have non-threatening conversations.
The difference between loneliness and social isolation.
The impact of losing an intimate partner and how
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/
...more
37min
July 31, 2024 Breaking Myths About Organ Donation with Sam Stones
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
This week is DonateLife Week (Sunday 28 July - Sunday 4 August 2024), and I've had the honour of speaking with Sam Stones from DonateLife Victoria. Sam shares the delicate and important work they do, helping families navigate the difficult decisions around organ and tissue donation when a loved one is dying.
In this episode, Sam walks us through the process of donation conversations, explaining how she approaches families in their most vulnerable moments.
We dive into the rarity of organ donations, the specific conditions required for someone to become a donor, and the emotional and logistical complexities involved. Sam also shares some heartwarming stories about the impact of organ donation, including the long-lasting connections between recipients and donor families.
You'll learn about the practicalities of organ donation, clear up some myths, and understand the entire process.
Sam's insights highlight the incredible generosity of donor families and the profound difference organ donation can make in people's lives.

Lynden’s story – additional details
In this episode, Samantha speaks about her dear friend Lynden, who sadly lost his life in 2023 after a 10-month battle with cancer. As Lynden was very ill, his wife Melissa was key in communicating his decision about corneal donation to medical staff, friends, family, and the Lions Eye Donation Service, also completing the necessary consent paperwork on his behalf. At the time
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/

...more
52min
July 24, 2024Secure Your Legacy: Clear Legal Advise from Greg Russo
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
Ever wondered what legal documents you need to have in place before you die? Or how to handle your assets and loved ones when the inevitable happens? In this episode of "Don't Be Caught Dead," I'm joined by Greg Russo, one of Victoria's most experienced and respected succession law solicitors. Greg shares his journey into law, driven by a love for maths and logic, and how he found his passion in succession law—a field where numbers meet human stories.
We dive deep into the essentials of succession law, discussing everything from wills and superannuation nominations to powers of attorney and advanced care directives. Greg explains the importance of having the right documents in place to ensure your assets are managed and your loved ones are cared for when you're no longer able to do so. He also sheds light on how to plan for your financial future and the guardianship of your children if you die or become incapacitated.
Get ready to learn about the nitty-gritty of succession law in a way that's clear, engaging, and relatable. Greg's insights will not only help you understand the legal landscape better but also empower you to make informed decisions about your future.
Key Highlights:
Understanding the importance of wills and superannuation nominations
The role of powers of attorney and advanced care directives
Planning for the guardianship and financial future of your children
Insights into managing your business a
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/
...more
1h 34min
July 17, 2024The Power of Community: Transforming Funerals with Tender Funerals
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
Today we’re talking about a revolutionary approach to farewelling our loved ones, pioneered by an extraordinary guest.
Meet Jennifer Briscoe-Hough, the founder and CEO of Tender Funerals Australia. She's been on quite a journey to get to where she is now. She even has had a movie made about her journey!
From her own personal experience with the death of her mother and the shocking costs of traditional funeral services, she was driven to find a solution that not only made sense financially, but also emotionally and spiritually. She talks about how the seed was planted for Tender Funerals, a non-profit franchise model that offers choice, transparency, and affordability.
In our discussion, Jenny shares the story of how Tender Funerals came into existence, the challenges faced along the way, and the beautiful meaning behind the term ‘undertaker'. She also touches on the industrialisation of the funeral business and how Tender Funerals aims to bring back the personal touch often lost in the process. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding more about the funeral industry and looking for a more personalised, meaningful approach to saying goodbye.
Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.
Take care,
Catherine
Key takeaways from this episode include:
Jenny’s personal experience with her mother’s death and how it inspired the creation of Tender Funerals.
Insigh
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/
...more
1h 28min
July 10, 2024 NAIDOC 2024: Celebrating Indigenous Stories and Heritage with Aunty Jill West
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
In honour of NAIDOC week 2024, the theme: Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Also, because I simply love what this wonderful woman has to share, we explore the experience and philosophies of Aunty Jill West, a Bunurong and Palawa woman, who generously shares her fascinating life story and the lessons she's learned from dealing with death.

In our chat, Aunty Jill talks about her dual heritage, her father's untimely death at 53, and how it made her reflect on her own mortality. She highlights the importance of understanding and accepting where we come from, and how it shapes our identity. Her father, a man of 'supreme intelligence', had a profound impact on her, and she continues his work, walking next to his footsteps.

Aunty Jill discusses the impact of the 1967 referendum on her family and the Aboriginal community at large. She gets candid about her father's journey to become a teacher, a university lecturer, and a doctor of Indigenous philosophy, despite facing numerous obstacles and systemic discrimination. It's an eye-opening conversation that gives us a glimpse into the resilience and determination of the Aboriginal community.

In today’s episode:

• Aunty Jill discusses the importance of und
The Don’t Be Caught Dead Pub Quiz is back — now in its third year, and it’s a sellout event for a reason.
Join us on May 12 at 7pm at Hotel Lona in Frankston, as part of the South Side Festival.
Come solo and join a team, or bring your own crew — and compete for great prizes.
Go to criticalinfo.com.au/events

Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?
Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
Support the show
Support the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.
Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/
Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a
Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/

...more
1h 19min

FAQs about Don't Be Caught Dead:

How many episodes does Don't Be Caught Dead have?

The podcast currently has 111 episodes available.