Ask a Death Doula

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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

Tuesday Feb 13, 2024

The Night I Slept in a Church

Tuesday Feb 13, 2024

Volunteer Chronicles: A Night of Compassion and Connection

Have you ever been awakened by a profound sense of community and connection?

Prepare to journey through an extraordinary night where Maple, my trusty canine companion, and I found ourselves amidst the sanctity of a Fifth Avenue church turned women's shelter. This sacred encounter wasn't just another New York City anecdote; it was a transformative experience, fueled by compassion and the unwavering spirit of an elderly woman's dedication to those in need. Embark with me as we traverse a heartfelt story from opening the shelter doors to the emotional realizations of how a simple act of kindness can echo through the lives of many.

Our passage doesn't end at dawn. We take a deep exploration into the tapestry of human consciousness, traversing the realms from a state of disconnection to the pinnacle of a superconscious unity. No guest is needed when the protagonists are the very stages of our collective human experience. From the echo of footsteps in a silent church hall to the life-changing philosophy behind selfless service, this episode is an odyssey of the soul. It's a testament to the unseen threads that weave us all together, and a reminder that within each of us lies the potent frequency of oneness. Tune in, and let's illuminate the power of community, compassion, and the transformative act of listening.

We dive into:

(00:02 - 01:59) Understanding Our Connected World
(04:00 - 05:35) Helping Women in a Church Shelter
(14:08 - 17:02) The Power of Selfless Service

We want to hear from you!!!

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Links mentioned in this episode:

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 06, 2024

How to Hold A Death Cafe to Start Your Death Doula Business

Tuesday Feb 06, 2024

Embracing Life's Final Chapter: The Rise of Death Cafes and Starting a Death Doula Business

Ever wondered how the contemplation of mortality could enrich your life?

Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as I lead you through the enlightening world of Death Cafes and reveal the secret to starting a Death Doula business. We embark on a journey from the inception of Death Cafes by Bernard Crettaz to their global spread, thanks to John Underwood's vision. I'll share my personal experience of launching a Death Cafe in Millerton, New York, a place where profound community dialogues about death led to an unexpected deepening of life's appreciation. Discover how these unique gatherings create a nurturing environment where the taboo of death is explored and embraced, paving the way for meaningful conversations and community bonds.

In the second act of our meaningful conversation, I take you behind the scenes of building a Death Doula practice, offering practical advice and heartfelt insights from my own transition from hospice nurse to creating a comprehensive end-of-life care program. I touch on the essence of being prepared, the intensity of supporting a family in their moment of need, and the importance of having a solid resource list. You will hear how Death Cafes can be a cornerstone for growth, both personally and professionally, for those in the Death Doula vocation. I conclude with the inspiring tale of how an accidental step led to the formation of a global community of practitioners, encouraging you to heed the call to service and experience the profound fulfillment it brings.

We dive into:

(00:30 - 01:59) The Global Movement of Death Cafes
(05:57 - 08:06) Death Cafes and Death Doulas' Importance
(11:00 - 11:49) Death Doula Platform Building
(17:04 - 18:14) Building Business and Serving Community

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:

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 30, 2024

How to Obtain Happiness and Life Mastery

Tuesday Jan 30, 2024

Embracing Universal Life Mastery with the RIPA Technique: Insights for a Purposeful Existence

Have you ever considered the profound lessons that life's final moments can teach us about living?

Embark on a transformative journey with me, Suzanne O'Brien, as I introduce the RIPA technique, inspired by the wisdom of those in the twilight of their lives. This isn't just a regular self-help talk; it's a gateway to universal life mastery, encouraging you to live with intention, love, and higher wisdom. Through Remembering, Interpreting, Practicing, and Aligning, we'll navigate the waters of heart-centered living and view life's hurdles as stepping stones for spiritual growth. Discover the art of interpreting life's lessons with a renewed perspective, and let's together make a meaningful impact on the collective soul of humanity.

In this heartwarming episode, you'll hear the stories that have shaped my approach to life and death, and how the clarity that often comes at the end can illuminate our entire existence. We'll delve into the transformative nature of forgiveness and the importance of embracing our challenges as opportunities to evolve spiritually. By adopting the RIPA method, you're not just changing your life; you're contributing to a world brimming with love and positive growth. So, join us for a conversation that promises to shift your perspective on your journey and the ripple effect you create around you. And remember, this is more than a podcast; it's an invitation to walk a path of enlightened living and to spread that light far and wide.

We dive into:

(03:19 - 04:55) Spiritual Wisdom in Life's Journey
(07:36 - 08:29) Finding Lessons and Forgiveness for Growth
(11:57 - 12:52) The Importance of Practicing Being

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:

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 23, 2024

How The Death Doula Training is a Life Course

Tuesday Jan 23, 2024

Journey Beyond the Ego to Spiritual Fulfillment

Ever wondered how the wisdom gleaned from the brink of life's final chapter could illuminate your day-to-day existence?

That's exactly what we uncover in our latest episode, where I, Suzanne O'Brien, delve into the unexpected life lessons from my path as a Death Doula. It's an exploration that takes us from the heart-wrenching moments of end-of-life care to the heart-led decisions that guide us towards a life of joy, flow, and yes, even miracles.

As we share stories of personal transformation, I open up about the profound impact listening to my heart over my ego has had on my life choices, including the inspired leap to write a book. This episode is an invitation to step away from the scarcity mindset and lean into the abundance of love and strength that comes from aligning with the universe's higher purpose. Prepare to challenge your perceptions of what's possible and embrace the power of living a life that's true to your heart's deepest guidance.

To cap off our journey, we look ahead to the "Universal Life Mastery" webinar, a space where we continue to unravel the threads of purpose and potential that weave through our lives. I'm thrilled to have you with me on this transformative voyage, and together, we'll celebrate the courage it takes to create not just a good life, but an extraordinary one. Whether through selfless volunteering or stepping out on faith, we're here to support each other in unlocking an existence filled with meaning and connection. Join me, and let's begin crafting the remarkable chapters of our own stories.

We dive into:

(04:59 - 06:33) The Meaning of a Good Death
(11:32 - 12:36) Inspired Guidance and Life Transformation
(15:58 - 17:59) Finding Your Purpose Through Energetic Alignment
(19:49 - 20:58) Fear of Death and Life Lessons
(25:02 - 26:40) Remembering Our Spiritual Existence
(28:38 - 30:37) Connecting to Higher Frequency and Consciousness
(34:02 - 36:04) Embrace Life's Opportunities for a Fulfilling 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:

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 16, 2024

How to Make a Full Time Income as a Death Doula

Tuesday Jan 16, 2024

The Sacred Work of a Death Doula Explored

Discover the profound lessons and transformative experiences that arise from the unique and deeply meaningful work of a Death Doula.

Embrace insights that will not only change how you view the end of life but also how you live each day to its fullest. Embark on an exploration of what it truly means to generate a sustainable income as a Death Doula. Learn about the Doulagivers Specialist Practitioner certification and the diverse range of services it encompasses, from elder care to grief support—all vital for creating a holistic practice that truly serves the needs of the dying and their families.

This episode uncovers the identity of the true client in end-of-life care, often the adult children of aging parents, while addressing common pitfalls new Death Doulas may encounter. Reflections on the changing landscape post-COVID-19 illuminates the critical role of Death Doulas in facilitating meaningful end-of-life experiences. Tune in for a candid discussion about the intersection of life, death, and the profound impact of those who guide us through our final chapters.

We dive into:

(01:30 - 02:23) Recognizing Calling, Balancing Work Hours
(02:24 - 04:41) Importance of Balance in End-of-Life Care
(06:17 - 07:11) Elder Support and End of Life Planning
(12:05 - 14:29) Expanding the Role of End-of-Life Doulas
(17:29 - 18:49) Benefits of Care Consultant's Power
(25:23 - 25:50) Crisis in Elder Care

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:

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 09, 2024

Pain Management for the Dying

Tuesday Jan 09, 2024

Compassionate Pain Relief in End-of-Life Care: Understanding Management and Medication

When the shadows of life grow long and the light at the end of the tunnel becomes clear, pain management becomes a paramount concern for both patients and caregivers.

In our latest heartfelt episode, we venture into the delicate realm of ensuring comfort for those on their sacred final journey. Addressing the elephant in the room, we dispel common myths surrounding pain medication at the end of life, reassuring you that these treatments are there to soothe, not to hasten the inevitable. We take a closer look at the different types of pain, and how a meticulous approach to pain management can transform a patient's end-of-life experience into one of peace and dignity.

Imagine witnessing a loved one's serene transition, free from the clutches of discomfort and pain. Our discussion brings to light a case where a patient's shingles-induced nerve pain was managed effectively through precise medication logs and timely intervention, exemplifying the profound impact of proactive pain relief strategies. The collaboration between caregivers and hospice nurses is nothing short of inspiring, highlighting the importance of a detailed logbook and the foresight to administer relief before pain escalates. Together, we explore the art of pain management that allows for cherished final moments with family and friends.

As we conclude this episode, we not only share the essentials of a hospice comfort kit but also extend an invitation to our upcoming free training webinars. These sessions are designed to enrich your capacity to provide compassionate care and to embrace the end-of-life process as a natural, shared experience. It's a journey we navigate together, and your participation is invaluable. So join us for more insights, as we continue to support each other in this profound aspect of life on Ask a Death Doula.

We dive into:

(00:05 - 03:53) Pain Management at End of Life
(03:54 - 04:49) Addressing Addiction Concerns in End-of-Life Care
(06:06 - 08:14) End-of-Life Pain
(21:07 - 22:47) Use of Lorazepam in Medical Treatment
(25:40 - 26:44) Understanding the Death Rattle
(29:45 - 30:44) Sublingual Medications for End of Life

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:

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 02, 2024

What Is An ”After Death Plan” And Why It’s Important To Have One

Tuesday Jan 02, 2024

Exploring the Empowering Facets of Death and Dying

Can we truly embrace life without acknowledging its end?

This poignant question is at the heart of today's transformative discussion as we delve into the empowering and healing aspects of end-of-life planning. Sharing insights from my years as a hospice nurse and my training in Level 1 Doulagiver's family caregiver training, we explore the importance of creating an after-death plan and voicing our wishes for after we pass, and how this can shift our perspective on our everyday life.

Our journey begins with a deep dive into end-of-life care and its many facets. We focus on the need to slow down, be present, and embrace the idea of home funerals - a topic that is often met with hesitance. Through open and candid discussions, we highlight how crucial conversations with family about after-death plans can profoundly impact the grieving process. We also touch on the legal considerations, planning, and the potential healing quality of a home wake.

We then move on to the more personalized aspects of after-death plans and celebrations. You're given a glimpse into the myriad of choices available for what happens to your body after death, including eco-friendly options such as water cremation and human composting. We also explore the importance of planning for a life celebration or memorial and the power of leaving behind a special letter or memento. I hope that this conversation inspires and empowers you to take an active role in your end-of-life planning, leading you to a new realization of the joy and beauty of life. Join us as we break the silence around death and dying, and together, let's celebrate life in all its phases.

We dive into:

(02:49 - 04:11) Grief Healing Through End of Life Training
(10:12 - 11:55) Being Present in Grief
(16:02 - 16:58) Supporting End-of-Life Choices for Loved Ones
(20:01 - 21:45) The Power of Three-Day Home Wakes
(26:06 - 26:59) After Death Disposition

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:

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 Dec 19, 2023

Exploring The Transformative Power of Love and Grief: A Conversation with Dr. Karen Wyatt

Tuesday Dec 12, 2023

Lessons of Love and Letting Go from Hospice Care

What if embracing death could enrich your daily life? Join us as we navigate this profound exploration with our cherished guest, Dr. Karen Wyatt.

A transformative journey awaits, as Dr. Wyatt shares her personal story of finding meaning and purpose in the wake of her father's suicide, eventually leading her to a rewarding career as a hospice physician.

Discussion takes a turn towards the deep end as we delve into the world of hospice care, unfolding the transformative power it holds over death and its spiritual growth. Dr. Wyatt enlightens us on how these experiences have shown her the importance of love while dealing with pain and forgiveness. We also touch upon the cultural shift needed in our perception of death and the support we extend to our healthcare professionals.

The conversation graduates to the insights from Dr. Wyatt's inspiring book, "The Tao of Death". Drawing from this, we discuss how death can be a mindful part of our lives, and how embracing it can ultimately enrich our existence. We conclude the episode with some practical tools to help you connect with your higher self and find peace in life’s turbulent waters. This episode is your gateway to comfort, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.

We dive into:

(01:25 - 02:22) Finding Purpose in End-of-Life Care
(05:33 - 07:16) Trusting and Following Higher Guidance
(09:05 - 10:33) Love and Compassion in a Divided World
(15:21 - 17:27) Compassion, Kindness, and Unity in Chaos
(25:06 - 26:25) Inner Light, Embrace Life's Challenges
(30:13 - 31:05) The Power of Forgiveness
(33:40 - 35:07) Letting Go and Finding Spaciousness

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:

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!
The Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Family Caregiver Training AVAILABLE NOW ON DEMAND! Listen Now (edited)

Learn more about Dr Karen Wyatt - Click here!

Check out Karen's books in Amazon - Click here!

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

Tuesday Dec 05, 2023

Doulagivers FREE 9 Choice Advance Directive Document Announced

Tuesday Dec 05, 2023

Securing a Positive End-of-Life Experience through Planning

Imagine having the power to dictate the quality and course of your end-of-life care, being able to define what 'quality of life' means for you.

This episode explores just that, with expert insight from Suzanne O'Brien, a former hospice and oncology nurse with years of experience in guiding individuals through this deeply personal journey. Dive into the world of advanced directives and the surprisingly non-binding nature of these documents. Discover the power of the POLST form, a tool that can help ensure your wishes are respected when it matters most.

The conversation doesn't stop there. We navigate the significant role your healthcare proxy plays, shedding light on the importance of defining your personal benchmarks for quality of life and establishing clear communication lines with your loved ones. We'll delve into the nine choices advanced directive document, a comprehensive guide that covers everything from who should voice your desires, to the heartfelt messages you want your loved ones to hold onto. Drawing from a poignant tale of a hospice patient, we're reminded of the simple yet profound joys of life and the importance of maintaining that quality until the very end. Let’s journey together into this solemn yet empowering topic of end-of-life care planning.

You are also invited to join the upcoming Live Learning Lab Workshop to explore these topics further.

We dive into:

(04:23 - 05:14) Seeking Legal Advice for Advanced Directives
(08:26 - 10:39) Understanding Healthcare Proxies
(12:43 - 14:39) Defining Quality of Life and Decision-Making
(16:13 - 17:04) Importance of End-of-Life Care Communication
(25:15 - 26:38) Choosing a Healthcare Proxy and Post Form
(29:08 - 30:19) Creating Sacred End of Life Space
(33:34 - 35:16) Redefining Relationship With End of Life

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:

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!
The Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Family Caregiver Training AVAILABLE NOW ON DEMAND! Listen Now (edited)

More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!