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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 Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Mastering Life's Choices: Harmonizing the Ego and the Heart
Have you ever felt torn between the whispers of your heart and the logic of your mind?
Our latest conversation delves into the profound realization that we navigate life with not one, but two internal compasses: the ego and the heart. Together, we explore the subtle yet powerful cues these guides offer and introduce the 'Ray technique,' a transformative tool I've developed to help you harmonize these distinct voices. As we embark on this journey, you'll learn to choose love over fear, reshaping not just your personal narrative but also contributing to our collective human tapestry with every heart-led step you take.
Embarking on a voyage through varying states of consciousness can be as disorienting as it is enlightening. In this conversation, we traverse from the fog of unconscious living, where the ego often leads us astray, to the clarity of a superconscious state, where our true purpose aligns with service to others. The empowering concept of co-creation with the universe is illuminated, contrasting the effortless flow of life's currents with the struggle of ego-driven force. Discover how consulting your heart can provide solutions of a higher wisdom, fostering a deeper connection within and to the world around you.
Sometimes life demands a leap of faith, and I share my own experience of uprooting my life from the familiarity of New York City to the unknown of Charlotte, North Carolina. The universe spoke in angel numbers, offering peace and affirmation in a time of turmoil. I extend an invitation to all listeners to embark on a profound personal transformation with our free Level One End of Life Doula training. This isn't just about acquiring new skills; it's an opportunity to rediscover your passion for life and align with your true calling. Join us and see where your heart leads you.
We dive into:
(03:46 - 05:14) The Power of Saying Yes
(09:20 - 10:43) Holistic Understanding From End-of-Life Patients
(14:19 - 15:41) Understanding and Shifting Your Ego
(17:37 - 19:26) The Power of Alignment and Co-Creation
(25:31 - 27:21) Finding Signs on Your Path
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
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 Apr 02, 2024
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Navigating the Tender Journey of Caregiving in Life's Final Chapter
Can we truly bear the weight of end-of-life care alone, or do we need a village to carry us through?
Join me, Suszanne O'Brien, as I tackle the often-overlooked yet essential questions that underpin the daily life of those offering care in the final chapters of a loved one's life. In the heartfelt journey of caregiving, I shed light on the acute and safety issues that cannot be ignored, and underscore the importance of a support system scheduler – a cornerstone in preventing caregiver burnout and ensuring the comfort of our dear ones as they near the end. By weaving in the moving tale of a daughter accompanying her father through his last days, I paint a vivid picture of the profound impact caregiving has on families and the undeniable necessity of a well-structured support network.
As we navigate through the complexities of end-of-life care, this conversation extends beyond the immediate caregiver to the broader community. I discuss how a carefully coordinated support system, facilitated by a scheduler, can transform the daunting task of caregiving into a shared labor of love, efficiently involving friends and family in the care journey. Not only does this approach lift the shroud of isolation often felt by caregivers, but it also provides a pathway for others to offer support in meaningful ways, from meal trains to maintaining a tranquil environment for both the living and the dying. This episode goes further to offer hope and direction for those who feel called to this deeply rewarding work, announcing an upcoming free training for aspiring death doulas, fostering a future where compassionate end-of-life care is the norm, not the exception.
We dive into:
(10:29 - 11:41) Caregiver Support for End of Life
(17:25 - 18:56) Supporting Patients and Caregivers
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
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 20, 2024
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Embracing Life's Final Transition: The Role and Impact of Death Doulas
My journey as a hospice nurse revealed gaps and limitations in end-of-life care, inspiring me to advocate for a more compassionate approach.
Stepping away from the sterile hospital corridors, we enter the realm of Death Doulas—unsung heroes who offer support, comfort, and dignity to those on their final journey. Today's conversation unwraps the intricate layers of becoming a Death Doula, highlighting the significance of proper training, early planning for end-of-life wishes, and the transformative effect of personalized care.
The parallels between birth and death doulas are undeniable; both shepherd us through life's most profound transitions with grace and empathy. In this episode, we dissect the shortcomings of the hospice system, the fear surrounding death, and the necessity for a reliable presence during our last moments. The global death doula movement, born from a desire to educate and support, exemplifies the power of community-driven care, especially in the face of global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, where traditional healthcare systems faltered under the weight of unprecedented strain.
As we wrap up our heartfelt exchange, I share insights into the comprehensive training that enables Death Doulas to enrich end-of-life experiences. From practical guides to evidence-based care plans, the tools at our disposal are designed to empower those without previous experience to step confidently into this role. We explore the rewarding opportunity for a sustainable livelihood in this field, the importance of self-care, and the overarching goal to reframe death as a natural, human experience—handled with kindness, education, and unyielding support.
We dive into:
(00:56 - 02:16) Importance of Researching Death Doula Training
(09:36 - 11:26) The Global Death Doula Movement
(16:39 - 19:14) Knowledge and Support in End-of-Life Care
(21:12 - 22:39) Self-Care in the Medical Field
(25:54 - 26:37) Doulagiver Practitioner Course Details
(33:22 - 34:33) Challenges and Solutions in Hospice 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:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
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 13, 2024
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!!!
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
- The FREE Doulagivers Universal Life Masty Masterclass (ULM)
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
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:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- The FREE Doulagivers Universal Life Mastery Masterclass (ULM)
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
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:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- The FREE Doulagivers Universal Life Mastery Masterclass (ULM)
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
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:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- The FREE Doulagivers Universal Life Mastery Masterclass (ULM)
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
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:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- The FREE Doulagivers Universal Life Mastery Masterclass (ULM)
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
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:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
- The FREE Doulagivers Universal Life Mastery Masterclass (ULM)
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
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:
- Doulagivers Institute
- The NEXT Free Level 1 End of lIfe Doula Training Registration LINK
- The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar
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!