Written On Water with Michelle Mathai

Maria Gore, Director of Operations & Program Services at the Argus Institute at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, shares her insights on compassionate support for pet owners. Discover the importance of honoring the human-animal bond, the concept of disenfranchised grief, and the innovative pet hospice program that provides comfort and care in the home. Learn valuable tips on pre-planning for end-of-life care, making humane decisions, and supporting children through the grieving process.

Jonathan Kaplan shares his personal journey through heart surgery in his 40s, multiple miscarriages, and the loss of a sibling. Discover the challenges of dealing with one's own health crises, supporting a spouse through repeated losses, and the long-lasting impact of childhood grief. Jonathan's story highlights the importance of self-compassion, the struggle with survivor’s guilt, and the resilience built over time.

From the Nation's Mosque in Washington, DC, Imam Talib Sharif joins us to explore the role of an Imam, the significance of the mosque community, and the diverse representation within the mosque. Discover the profound rituals surrounding death and remembrance in Islam, and gain insights into the compassionate practices that support grieving families. Imam Sharif shares his personal journey, including his military service and efforts to promote religious freedom.

Jennifer Byram, a trust and estate attorney, explores the complexities of estate planning and end-of-life decisions. Jennifer shares her expertise on drafting wills and trusts, administering assets, and the importance of having a plan in place. We delve into the emotional aspects of discussing one's own death, the challenges of family dynamics, and the significance of making humane decisions for loved ones. Jennifer also provides valuable advice on essential documents, guardianship for children and pets, and the differences between a trust and a will.

An intuitive and psychic with a profound spiritual journey to share, Sharon Flynn her early brush with death due to a staph infection, her transformative near-death experience during childbirth, and her spiritual encounters that followed. Sharon uses her connection to angels and guides to doing a reading for Michelle. Sharon also opens up about her psychic development, her ability to see auras, and her experiences with metaphysical churches.

Dr. Eben Alexander, a renowned neurosurgeon, dives into the mysteries of the afterlife and the profound experiences that have shaped his understanding. Dr. Alexander shares his personal journey, including his near-death experience and the insights it provided into the nature of consciousness and the afterlife. We discuss the intersection of science and spirituality, the impact of his experiences on his medical career as a neurosurgeon, and the lessons he has learned about life, death, and what lies beyond. This episode offers a unique perspective on the afterlife, the power of the human spirit, and the importance of compassionate care in the face of mortality.

Rabbi Beth Singer shares profound insights into the Jewish traditions and beliefs surrounding life, death, and the afterlife. Discover the significance of living a good life, the comforting practices of mourning and remembrance, and the evolving rituals within the Jewish community. This episode delves into the philosophy that our bodies come from the earth and the spirit lives on with God, offering a beautiful perspective on mortality.

Natalie Niksa delves into the challenges of miscarriages and the joy of motherhood. She shares her emotional story of balancing a demanding career with the desire to start a family, and the profound impact of her experiences on her life. From the initial excitement of pregnancy to the heartbreak of loss, Natalie opens up about the physical and emotional toll of miscarriages and the resilience it takes to keep trying. This episode delves into the importance of community support, the role of spirituality in healing, and the unwavering hope that led to the birth of her son, Smith.

Matteo Undici is a healer, social worker, and adjunct professor with over 30 years of experience in deep listening, empathy, and guiding individuals through life's complexities. He explores the real meaning of mindfulness beyond the buzzword, discussing its roots, the importance of being present—especially in caregiving and grief—and how technology both supports and challenges our sense of community. Mateo shares insights from working with young adults and emphasizes the value of balance, stillness, and authentic connection in a fast-paced, digital world. The discussion covers practical tips for integrating mindfulness into daily life, the impact of social conditioning, and the power of acceptance.

Former nurse and Buddhist teacher, Pat Berube shares their unique insights on the intersection of medicine, spirituality, and the philosophy of death. Discover the transformative power of compassion, the importance of living a good life, and the beauty of a peaceful transition. This episode explores the concept of impermanence, the role of a death doula, and the significance of deep listening and community support during end-of-life care.