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Ask a Death Doula Podcast is a weekly show hosted by Hospice and Oncology nurse Suzanne B. O’Brien. Suzanne is the CEO and founder of International Doulagivers Institute. This is a vital platform for discussions and interviews that will bring back death into the natural fold of life. Ask a Death Doula will share vital education on how to care for those who are dying as well as sharing inspiring stories from working at the bedside with over 1000 dying people from all around the world. Please visit www.doulagivers.com to access our free education and resource center. About International Doulagivers Institute: The goal of Doulagivers Institute is simple and powerful - to provide affordable and accessible education and support to everyone in the world so that every person has the opportunity to die with comfort and dignity in their own home. Death is something that we all have in common no matter our race, religion, or socioeconomic status. We believe that this education to support people to have the most positive end of life experience is a human right, not a privilege.
Episodes
5 hours ago
5 hours ago
What does it take to ensure a "good death"?
Join us as we explore this profound question with our esteemed guest, Susanna Bryan, a transformative figure in end-of-life care. Drawing from her rich experiences as a former hospice and oncology nurse, and founder of the Doula Givers Institute, Susanna offers enlightening insights into making the end-of-life experience more human-centered. Inspired by her volunteer work in Zimbabwe, she advocates for changes in the American system to focus on clarity, comfort, and dignity, and shares the nine essential questions that guide this process. Her journey underscores the importance of presence and a supportive community for those nearing life's end and provides a roadmap to align end-of-life experiences with personal values.
This episode delves into the delicate task of discussing end-of-life wishes with loved ones, focusing on maintaining quality of life and ensuring wishes are respected. We recount the heartfelt story of Mary, who faced terminal cancer with grace and celebrated her life through a living funeral. Mary's journey is a testament to the power of prioritizing personal comfort and symptom management over medical interventions. We also explore the role of palliative care in enhancing quality of life, encouraging listeners to consider practical, physical, and emotional preparations for future decisions.
Listeners are invited to consider their own end-of-life care preferences, from choosing a healthcare proxy to exploring environmentally friendly body disposition options. We highlight the significance of legal documents like the POLST form in ensuring wishes are followed and emphasize the value of clear communication with family. As we explore alternative end-of-life celebrations, such as body donation and living funerals, we encourage embracing personal choice to honor life and death. By empowering you with knowledge and confidence, this episode aims to make end-of-life planning a meaningful and sacred gift for both you and your loved ones.
SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on March 12th at 7pm ET - Click here
The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!
Mark your calendars!
On March 22nd, I’m hosting a private virtual event to celebrate "THE GOOD DEATH," and I want YOU to join me.
Pre-order the book today, and you’ll get exclusive access to a full day of training, conversation about what makes life an AMAZING journey. I will share my 5 pillar framework that I use every day, to create a life of fulfillment, joy and service- and you can too!
I can’t wait to share this journey with you. Grab your ticket here!
We dive into:
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- Buy The Good Death Book
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
What if the end of life was not something to fear, but an opportunity to celebrate personal values and make informed choices?
Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as we promise to guide you through this transformative perspective shift in our Good Death Seminar Series. This episode sheds light on the importance of quality of life over mere life extension, underscoring death as a sacred rite of passage that deserves our respect and careful consideration. We delve into historical and cultural perspectives on death, offering insights to enrich your understanding of life itself.
Drawing on my extensive experience as a hospice and oncology nurse, we explore the significance of quality of life when facing serious illnesses. The discussion highlights the importance of advanced directives and healthcare proxies, emphasizing how these tools can empower individuals to make decisions aligned with their personal values. Real-life stories illustrate the profound impact of informed choices on end-of-life experiences, while practical guidance on symptom management and critical diagnosis questions ensure you and your loved ones can navigate these challenging times with confidence and clarity.
We also explore the critical role of communication and advocacy in medical settings, especially when confronting critical diagnoses. Discover how sharing experiences and having a third-party advocate, such as an elder care doula, can transform an overwhelming situation into an empowering journey. By fostering open conversations and planning ahead, you can ensure that end-of-life wishes are honored, turning what is often a difficult subject into a meaningful dialogue. Join us as we seek to inspire change, drawing on the wisdom of those at the end of life who remind us that presence and understanding are the greatest gifts we can offer.
SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on February 26th at 7pm ET - Click here
The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!
Mark your calendars!
On March 22nd, I’m hosting a private virtual event to celebrate "THE GOOD DEATH," and I want YOU to join me.
Pre-order the book today, and you’ll get exclusive access to a full day of training, conversation about what makes life an AMAZING journey. I will share my 5 pillar framework that I use every day, to create a life of fulfillment, joy and service- and you can too!
I can’t wait to share this journey with you. Grab your ticket here!
We dive into:
(00:00) Good Death Seminar Series Overview
(06:00) Quality of Life Seminar Series Recap
(14:22) Choosing Quality of Life Over Cure
(22:21) Critical Diagnosis
(37:14) Advocacy and Education in Health Choices
(44:07) Empowering Decision Making Through Communication
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- Buy The Good Death Book
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Have you ever wondered how a healthcare proxy can impact your end-of-life planning?
As a devoted hospice and oncology nurse, I've witnessed firsthand the profound importance of choosing the right person to voice your medical wishes. Embark on this journey with me as I share heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking stories that reveal the true essence of a healthcare proxy and how it differs from a financial power of attorney. By the time we're done, you'll have gained invaluable insight into selecting someone who can ensure your journey concludes with dignity and peace.
Understanding the terminology around healthcare proxies can often feel like navigating a labyrinth. Terms like healthcare surrogate and healthcare agent might sound confusing, but each has a specific role in safeguarding your medical preferences. Drawing from over two decades of experience and memorable moments from around the globe, including a life-changing trip to Zimbabwe, I unravel these complexities. For those without an obvious choice, learn about innovative solutions like doula giver healthcare proxy mixers and support groups that help you make these crucial decisions.
The episode doesn't just stop at education—it’s a call to prepare and act. With the launch of the Good Death book, you have a chance to delve deeper into the art of living and dying well. I also invite you to a live masterclass where you can expand your understanding and engage with others on this journey. Join us and transform the way you approach end-of-life planning, ensuring that your wishes are honored, and your loved ones spared unnecessary distress.
SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on February 26th at 7pm ET - Click here
The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!
We dive into:
(00:00) Choosing a Healthcare Proxy
(10:51) Understanding Healthcare Proxy Terminology
(21:54) Selecting a Healthcare Proxy Wisely
(31:58) Exploring Healthcare Proxy Options
(45:03) Announcing Good Death Book Launch Event
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- Buy The Good Death Book
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Unlock the secrets to a more peaceful and prepared end-of-life experience with insights from our latest session in the Good Death Seminar series.
As a hospice and oncology nurse, I draw from my extensive experience to transform the fear and chaos surrounding death into an opportunity for growth and understanding. You'll learn how to have essential end-of-life conversations that not only honor loved ones but also teach us valuable lessons about truly living. Discover how the Good Death Movement is reshaping societal perceptions and inspiring a more meaningful appreciation for life.
Our discussion delves into the importance of having advanced directive conversations with family and friends, ensuring that end-of-life wishes are respected and documented. Through poignant stories, such as that of Mrs. Murphy, we highlight the potential heartbreak and conflict that arise from avoiding these critical discussions. Learn about the role of certified end-of-life doulas and the significance of legal documents like advanced directives and the POLST form in making your wishes known and legally recognized.
Join us as we explore advanced directives' profound impact on families and medical professionals, offering peace of mind and clear guidance for those difficult decisions. We emphasize the need for proactive communication and preparation to bridge gaps in care and prevent misunderstandings. By participating in our movement, you contribute to a cultural shift in how society views death, fostering conversations that lead to a more serene and dignified end-of-life journey for all.
SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on February 12th at 7pm ET - Click here
The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!
We dive into:
(00:00) Good Death Seminar Series Introduction
(06:22) The Importance of End-of-Life Planning
(20:07) Family Advanced Directive Discussion Comfort Level
(25:12) Advance Directive Importance and Preparation
(31:06) Advanced Directive Benefits and Challenges
(35:47) Advanced Directives and Legal Considerations
(45:06) The Importance of the Pulse Form
(57:04) Good Death Book Purchase Instructions
(01:10:51) Good Death Book Bonuses and Certification
(01:23:43) Initiating Conversations on End-of-Life Care
(01:32:28) The Good Death Movement Conclusion
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- Buy The Good Death Book
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
As we continue, we confront the challenges posed by the rising number of for-profit hospices, questioning how profit-driven motives might affect the quality of care. Through poignant narratives like Mr. Penn's, we expose systemic gaps and the urgent need for patient-centered care. By reflecting on the invaluable contributions of hospice workers, we advocate for a renewed focus on collaboration to ensure dignified and supportive end-of-life experiences. With discussions on pain management, advanced directive documents, and the essential role families play, we aim to empower you with the tools needed for informed decision-making.
Finally, we underscore the importance of seeing death not just as a medical event but as a profound human experience. Inspired by the wisdom of Cicely Saunders, we discuss how education, kindness, and support can restore the sacredness of both life and death. You'll discover resources like the Good Death, Good Life Masterclass and the Confident Caregiver Course, designed to equip you with essential skills for compassionate care. By preparing for the end of life, we not only enhance our daily experiences and relationships but also empower ourselves to live fully and without regrets.
SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on January 29th at 7pm ET - Click here
The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!
We dive into:
(00:01) - Understanding Hospice Care Seminar Series
(11:49) - Challenges of for-Profit Hospice Care
(20:25) - Addressing Gaps in End-of-Life Care
(27:29) - Enhancing End-of-Life Care Support
(40:27) - Empowering Families in End-of-Life Care
(43:45) - Key Questions for Hospice Care
(47:50) - The Good Death Movement Opportunity
(52:52) - Promoting End-of-Life Care Movement
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- Buy The Good Death Book
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Kris Carr, a remarkable individual who has thrived with stage four cancer for nearly two decades, joins us to share her incredible journey and tools on how to THRIVE in LIFE!
She reveals how her diagnosis became a catalyst for empowerment, blending traditional and integrative care while tuning into her intuition. Kris opens up about navigating the challenges of uncertainty and fear, ultimately finding profound peace in confronting mortality. Her story inspires us to consider how embracing a growth mindset can transform life's most difficult moments into opportunities for personal evolution.
Our conversation takes a personal turn as we examine the transformative power of a health crisis. She shares her own experience with a rare cancer diagnosis that prompted a radical shift in her approach to self-care and emotional well-being. As a coach, she discusses guiding others through similar challenges with empathy and the healing potential of forgiveness. We explore the hidden blessings within adversity and the importance of connecting with one's inner wisdom to navigate life's journey with authenticity and courage.
Food and mindfulness emerge as key components in Kris's wellness philosophy, emphasizing an anti-inflammatory lifestyle grounded in whole, plant-based nutrition. We explore the simplicity of incorporating daily habits like smoothies and manageable exercise routines.
Kris shares her insights into the five pillars of wellness, underscoring the impact of mindful choices on stress and inflammation. The episode concludes with reflections on self-connection, forgiveness, and pursuing happiness, ultimately encouraging listeners to live with grace and empowerment amidst life's challenges.
SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on January 29th at 7pm ET - Click here
The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!
We dive into:
(00:02) Cancer Journey and Turning Points
(07:49) Embracing Change Through Illness
(11:10) Wellness Through Food and Mindfulness
(24:16) Healing Through Self-Connection and Forgiveness
(35:31) Cultivating Growth and Happiness
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- Buy The Good Death Book
- Discover Wellness with Kris Carr
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Tuesday Jan 14, 2025
Tuesday Jan 14, 2025
What happens when we embrace the reality of death instead of fearing it?
Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, founder of the International Doula Givers Institute, on the Ask a Death Doula podcast as we embark on a transformative journey through the complex world of end-of-life care with The Good Death Seminar Series. This episode promises to challenge your perceptions, with stories from my hospice experiences and insights from historical perspectives that confront our deep-seated fear of death. Together, we'll explore how aligning our intentions with compassion can redefine our understanding of what it truly means to experience a 'good death.'
Throughout our engaging Good Death Seminar Series, we delve into the intricacies of end-of-life care within the current medical system, questioning if we've forgotten that death is a natural part of life. Through personal anecdotes, from patients like Vivian to families navigating the difficult medical landscape, we highlight the necessity of a purpose-driven approach. We'll discuss the lost art of dying, dissecting cultural and language barriers that obscure the reality of mortality and urging for a return to empathy and understanding.
Our journey doesn't stop there. We address the commercialization of death and the urgency of respecting individual end-of-life wishes. By sharing poignant stories, like that of oncology patient Maureen, we examine how a supportive and informed environment can empower people facing the end of life. With a focus on compassion and personal responsibility, we explore how each of us, with the right education and support, can foster a world where everyone has the opportunity to experience a good death. Join us as we embrace the sacredness of death and its reflection on life, paving the way for a compassionate future.
SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on January 15th at 7pm ET - Click here
The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!
We dive into:
(00:01) Ask a Death Doula Podcast Welcome
(06:09) Unveiling the Fear of Death
(11:51) Exposing the Fear of Death
(18:31) Reclaiming the Art of Dying
(32:13) Exploring Cultural Views on Death
(41:12) Facing the Challenges of End-of-Life Care
(49:04) Improving End-of-Life Care System
(59:48) Embracing Sacredness of Death
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- Buy The Good Death Book
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Tuesday Jan 07, 2025
Tuesday Jan 07, 2025
Navigating the Journey with Hospice Nurse Penny: Valuing End-of-Life Care
In this episode of the Good Death podcast series, we converse with Penny Smith, also known as Hospice Nurse Penny. A renowned hospice and palliative care nurse, Penny discusses her journey from a tumultuous past to becoming an RN and a social media influencer with over 2 million followers. She highlights the importance of hospice education, the misconceptions about hospice care, and the profound impact of bedside visitations. Penny shares her personal story, including her experience with death anxiety and her father's post-death visitation, aiming to normalize the end-of-life process and remove the stigma surrounding it. This conversation offers an inspiring look into the importance of discussing and understanding end-of-life care.
We dive in to:
00:00 Introduction to the Good Death Podcast
00:25 Meet Hospice Nurse Penny
03:17 Penny's Journey to Hospice Nursing
09:52 Discovering Social Media During the Pandemic
12:23 Writing the Book: A Journey of Reflection
14:44 A Life-Changing Encounter with Law Enforcement
18:57 Overcoming Personal Challenges
21:26 Misconceptions About Hospice and End-of-Life Care
22:27 Late Hospice Admissions and Misconceptions
23:22 The Role of Medications in Hospice Care
24:42 The Emotional and Sacred Aspects of Hospice Work
26:25 Personal Reflections and Life Lessons
27:50 Deathbed Visions and Spiritual Experiences
30:58 Personal Stories of Afterlife Encounters
36:24 The Impact of Spiritual Beliefs on Grief
37:06 Conclusion
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- Learn more about Hospice Nurse Penny and What She Do
- Order Penny's book Influencing Death: Reframing Dying for Better Living - A Memoir
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Wednesday Dec 11, 2024
Wednesday Dec 11, 2024
Navigate the intricate emotions of grief during the holiday season with insights from our latest episode of Ask a Death Doula.
Discover effective strategies to manage the sorrow of missing a loved one, whether you're facing their absence for the first time or have been carrying this weight for years. We provide five transformative tips to help you find peace and meaning in the midst of pain, drawing on universal truths from diverse cultural and religious perspectives that can reshape how we view the end-of-life experience. Our aim is not only to ease the burden of grief but also to cultivate a sense of enduring love and connection with those who have passed on.
We delve into the art of creating family traditions that honor and remember those no longer with us—forging bonds that transcend the boundaries of life and death. From cooking treasured family recipes to exchanging gifts in a loved one's name, these heartfelt rituals can foster a sense of unity and continuity. Imagine a memory jar filled with stories and messages that keep their spirit alive, or dedicating acts of kindness that extend their legacy into the world. These practices are not just acts of remembrance; they are pathways to healing, offering comfort and a shared sense of purpose as we celebrate the holidays with the presence of our loved ones felt in every moment.
SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on January 1st at 7pm ET - Click here
The Good Death Seminar Series will be hosted LIVE on Zoom! Space is limited! Save your seat now!
We dive in to:
(02:52) Complicated Grief and End of Life
(06:56) Holiday Rituals for All Ages
(11:53) Memory Jar for Remembering Loved Ones
(17:07) Coping With Grief During Holidays
We want to hear from you!!!
If you found this podcast helpful,
Please Rate, Review, & Follow so we can reach more people.
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- Buy The Good Death Book
80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things:
Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE!
Access them Below!
- Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!
More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
Thursday Dec 05, 2024