Today, we're joined by Lauren Ponder, a professional Death Doula, to pull back the curtain on the "Death Positive" movement, Swedish Death Cleaning, and how to reclaim your dignity at the end of life.

In this episode of It's a Theological World After All, we explore why our culture is so "death-avoidant" and how we can transform the end-of-life process from a moment of fear into a spiritual and transcendent experience. Whether you're curious about "Death Cafes" or want to know how to start your own "Death Cleaning" legacy project, this conversation is for anyone who wants to live—and die—with intention.

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction: The role of a Death Doula

05:30 - The Big Secret: Is death a revelation?

12:15 - Reclaiming the “Art of Dying Well”

18:40 - The Death Positive Movement explained

25:10 - Why we equate "spending money" with "loving the dead"

32:00 - Swedish Death Cleaning (Döstädning) & Legacy Projects

40:15 - What is a Death Cafe? (And why you should join one)

48:50 - Personal reflections: Dying with Dignity

Connect with Lauren Ponder: https://withlove.events

Books Mentioned:

The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson

Bodies in Motion and at Rest by Thomas Lynch 

What does "dying with dignity" mean to you? We'd love to hear your thoughts.

#DeathPositive #DeathDoula #SwedishDeath Cleaning #EndofLife #LegacyPlanning #TheologyPodcast