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In this heartfelt episode of "Don't Be Caught Dead," I chat with Charmaine Blanch, the founder of Tiare Funerals and Deathcare. Charmaine's mission is to empower families to reclaim their death rights and make decisions that truly reflect their values and culture. With a unique blend of creativity and deep empathy, she offers a holistic approach to funerals that goes beyond the traditional, sterile services many are accustomed to.

Charmaine shares her personal journey, which began with the loss of her grandparents at a young age. This experience ignited her passion for creating meaningful farewells that honour the individuality of each person. She discusses the importance of community, the healing power of grief circles, and how her Maori heritage has influenced her practices. From offering families the choice to wash their loved ones to incorporating sound healing and breathwork, Charmaine is redefining what it means to say goodbye.

Join us as we explore the profound connection between death and life, and how embracing these conversations can lead to empowerment and healing. Whether you're planning a funeral or simply seeking to understand the process better, this episode is packed with insights and options that can help you navigate the complexities of grief and loss.

Key points from our discussion:

• Charmaine's personal story and how it shaped her approach to deathcare.
• The significance of community and cultural practices in the gri

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/