🚀 From Google Podcasts to Moon FM in No Time: Your Hassle-Free Migration Guide
👉

Ask A Death Doula

Suzanne B. O'Brien RN

"Ask a Death Doula"is a free educational forum where patients, families and doulas can come and ask any question related to end of life and the Death Doula movement.

  • 21 minutes 30 seconds
    5 Things to Help Grief at the Holidays

    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:

     

    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!

     

     

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

     

    11 December 2024, 9:30 am
  • 47 minutes 34 seconds
    The Good Death Podcast Series: Dr. Michael Fratkin's Journey from Traditional Medicine to Psychedelic Healing

    How do we redefine the end-of-life journey with compassion and innovation?

    We promise that today's episode with Dr. Michael Fratkin, a trailblazing rural palliative care physician, will leave you with a fresh perspective on healing and human connection. Dr. Fratkin's early experiences with loss and the societal norms surrounding death set him on a path to transform how we understand and approach palliative care. His insights, shaped by the AIDS crisis and personal encounters, demonstrate the power of empathy in reshaping our response to life's most challenging moments.

    Dr. Fratkin shares his remarkable journey from a traditional medical career to becoming an entrepreneur in the healthcare industry. His love for outdoor adventures sparked a medical career that evolved beyond conventional pathways, leading to the creation of Resolution Care—a pioneering home-based palliative care program. Discover how embracing indigenous healing practices and technology allowed him to address burnout and expand his impact across multiple states, ultimately resulting in a heartfelt business journey experienced alongside family and friends.

    In our conversation, we uncover the profound lessons Dr. Fratkin has learned from elders and end-of-life experiences, particularly regarding consciousness and healing. We explore the transformative potential of psychedelic therapy, emphasizing the importance of foundational support and emotional healing. From the wisdom of indigenous cultures to the power of gratitude and forgiveness, this episode invites you to challenge modern healthcare shortcomings and cultivate a deeper understanding of life, happiness, and spiritual fulfillment. Join us as we share upcoming events and initiatives that aim to foster informed communities around these innovative therapeutic practices.

     

    SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on December 18th 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:

    00:02) - Dr. Fratkin's Path to Palliative Care

    (08:52) - From Medicine to Entrepreneurship

    (17:49) - Exploring Consciousness and Healing Professionally

    (32:53) - Healing With Psychedelic Therapy

     

     

     

    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!

     

     

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

     

    5 December 2024, 9:30 am
  • 34 minutes 42 seconds
    Heartache to Hope: Navigating Loss and Recovery with Darryl Rodgers, Founder of The Family Recovery Coach

    Losing a child is an unimaginable pain that no parent should have to endure.

    For Darryl Rodgers, founder of The Family Recovery Coach, this heartache became a catalyst for transformation. Darryl's life shifted dramatically after the tragic loss of his son, Chase, who died in a marijuana-impaired car accident at the tender age of 20. In this heartfelt episode, Darryl shares his deeply personal journey, offering invaluable insights into the world of addiction and the significant role that empathy and understanding play in family recovery.

    As we explore the challenging terrain of addiction, particularly among young adults, Darryl emphasizes the importance of early, open communication and a non-judgmental approach. Parents often struggle with how to react to their child's substance use, and harsh reactions can sometimes do more harm than good. By understanding the underlying traumas that often drive addiction, families can foster a supportive environment where healing is possible. Darryl's reflections on his own experiences provide a sobering yet hopeful perspective on the delicate balance of guiding a child through their darkest moments.

    Grief, in all its forms, is a recurring theme in our conversation. Darryl discusses anticipatory grief and the heart-wrenching loss of the child he once knew, offering a poignant look at how addiction transforms individuals and families alike. Yet, through his grief, Darryl found purpose—turning his pain into a mission to help others. His work, including his book, short film, and coaching services, is dedicated to supporting families in similar situations. Darryl's website, thefamilyrecoverycoach.com, offers resources and a free 30-minute strategy session for parents embarking on their recovery journey. Join us for this powerful episode and discover the strength, resilience, and hope that can emerge from even the deepest sorrow.

     

    SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on December 4th 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) Navigating Addiction and Family Recovery
    (07:15) Approaching Addiction & Trauma With Empathy
    (19:23) Fostering Growth Through Grief
    (27:12) Supporting Families Through Addiction

     

     

     

    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!

     

     

    More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!
    Learn more about Darryl Rodgers and what he do - Click here!
    Reach out to Darryl Rodgers directly - Click here!

    2 December 2024, 9:30 am
  • 36 minutes 18 seconds
    How Being Thankful Can Save Your Life

    Unlock the secrets to a richer, more connected life through the transformative power of gratitude.

    Join us as we unravel the science-backed benefits of gratitude from renowned studies, and discover a simple daily practice that promises to elevate your well-being and attract positivity. Ever wondered how a shift in perspective can change your life's frequency? This episode holds the answers, offering insights into how gratitude can be a guiding force in achieving personal growth and fulfillment.

    Guided by my own journey from a hospital nurse to finding purpose as a hospice nurse, we'll explore how gratitude and compassionate living can shape a vibrant existence. Embrace the lessons from end-of-life care, where appreciating life's simple blessings leads to profound inner transformation. By aligning with love and service, we can let go of control and experience life anew, all while recognizing and respecting the unseen struggles others are facing. Tune in to embark on a journey of self-discovery and connection, where gratitude becomes the key to unlocking your true potential.

     

     

    SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on December 4th 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) - The Power of Gratitude and Connection

    (11:16) - The Power of Gratitude and Vibration

    (26:43) - Embracing Gratitude for a Beautiful 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!

     

     

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

    28 November 2024, 9:30 am
  • 30 minutes 1 second
    Celebrating National Caregiver Month and Why I Wrote THE GOOD DEATH BOOK
     

    Discover the secrets to balancing the demands of the "sandwich generation" and master the intricacies of end-of-life care with insights that could change your perspective forever.

    Host Suzanne O'Brien, a seasoned hospice and oncology nurse, shares wisdom from her book, "The Good Death," to help caregivers navigate the challenging landscape of caring for both aging parents and children while maintaining their own careers. Through enlightening discussions, we shine a light on the urgent need for support systems and the transformative power of education in reducing the fear surrounding death.

    Unravel the complexity of grief and understand how embracing death as a natural part of life can lead to healing. Suzanne shares heartening stories of individuals who have found peace and solace after loss, underscoring the role of resources like "The Good Death Book" in preparing families for the inevitable journey. As advancements in medicine extend life expectancy, families must equip themselves to ensure a dignified and supportive end-of-life experience for their loved ones. By fostering a collective approach to caregiving, we can prevent the responsibility from becoming an isolating burden.

    Join us in celebrating National Caregiver Month by acknowledging the tireless contributions of caregivers everywhere. Suzanne extends a heartfelt message of appreciation and highlights the importance of spreading awareness about the resources available to support those in caregiving roles. By challenging misconceptions and embracing meaningful end-of-life rituals, we can enrich our understanding of life and death, empowering caregivers and families to face these moments with dignity and meaning. Tune in for a conversation filled with compassion, dedication, and valuable life lessons.

     

    SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on NOVEMBER 13th 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) - Supporting Caregivers in End-of-Life

    (07:23) - Navigating Grief and End-of-Life Care

    (19:41) - Embracing End-of-Life Rituals and Choices

    (28:02) - Celebrating National Caregiver Month

     

     

     

     

    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!

     

     

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

     

    11 November 2024, 9:30 am
  • 27 minutes 34 seconds
    Surviving Hurricane Milton
     

    Can you find peace and purpose amidst the chaos of a hurricane?

    Join me on an emotional journey through the devastation of Hurricane Helene in St. Petersburg, Florida, where the bond with my loyal dog, Maple, and the lessons from those at life's end became my guiding lights. As another storm threatened, the urgent mission to protect Maple highlighted the profound connections we hold with our pets, even in the face of nature's fury. Reflecting on these experiences, I share insights on embracing gratitude and discovering unexpected gifts that arise from dire circumstances.

    Do end-of-life choices hold the key to combating climate change? I invite you to explore this question as I recount my transformative path to becoming a hospice nurse, driven by a deep sense of purpose. This episode uncovers the environmental impacts of traditional burial practices and presents sustainable alternatives like green burials and human composting, not only as eco-friendly solutions but as financially savvy choices. Introducing my new book, "The Good Death," I aim to empower you with knowledge on navigating end-of-life journeys with serenity and environmental consciousness, demonstrating the power of mindful presence and gratitude in both living and dying.

     

    SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on NOVEMBER 13th 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) - Surviving Hurricane Milton

    (13:05) - Life's Purpose and Climate Change Action

     

     

     

    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!

     

     

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

    4 November 2024, 9:30 am
  • 34 minutes 18 seconds
    The First Phase of End-of-Life and What You Can Do to Support a Dying Loved One

    What if we reimagined death not as a battle to fight, but as a sacred part of our life's journey?

    Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as I share insights from my work as a hospice and oncology nurse, guiding you through the shock phase that follows a terminal diagnosis. This episode challenges the fears that often surround death, urging us to engage in honest conversations about end-of-life care. Discover practical tools to help you navigate this difficult terrain, ensuring that you and your loved ones are prepared for what lies ahead.

    In our conversation, we explore the transformative power of presence, compassion, and active listening. We highlight how choosing love and kindness can help distinguish between merely being alive and truly living. By focusing on what truly matters, from simple comforts like a favorite song to important decisions about care, we can help return a sense of control to those facing their final days. With an emphasis on safety and respect for personal wishes, we explore how to support loved ones with dignity and care.

    Finally, witness a touching story of a family's journey with their beloved grandmother that underscores the importance of trust and emotional presence. This episode not only illustrates how education and compassion can create positive end-of-life experiences but also introduces the Good Death Seminar Series. This unique opportunity offers guidance in facilitating a compassionate and memorable journey for your loved ones. Together, let's ensure everyone can experience a meaningful and dignified end-of-life journey.

     

    SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on OCTOBER 30th 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) Understanding the Shock Phase of End-of-Life
    (11:46) Empowering End-of-Life Conversations
    (17:32) Navigating End-of-Life Shock Phase
    (28:06) Creating Positive End-of-Life Experiences

     

     

     

    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!

     

     

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

    28 October 2024, 9:30 am
  • 46 minutes 51 seconds
    How To Be A Confident Caregiver

    Unlock the secrets to becoming a confident caregiver and transform your approach to end-of-life planning.

    Today, we promise to equip you with the knowledge and insight necessary to navigate the intricate journey of supporting your aging loved ones. Through real-life stories and expert advice, we tackle the emotional and logistical challenges head-on, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead and making informed decisions. With an aging population that demands our attention, understanding the nuances of caregiving, including the pivotal role of death doulas, is more crucial than ever.

    Reflect on the myriad of options available for end-of-life care, from maintaining urban independence to exploring shared housing arrangements. We share personal anecdotes about the nature of family discussions surrounding future care preferences and the importance of facing these often difficult conversations with honesty and empathy. Join us as we contemplate living arrangements—whether it’s independent city living, family-supported granny pods, or reputable care facilities—highlighting the importance of tailoring decisions to match individual needs and values.

    Explore the realm of eco-friendly body disposition methods such as natural burials, water cremation, and human composting, and the positive impact these choices can have on the environment. We discuss the historical context and current implications of traditional burial practices, urging listeners to consider sustainable alternatives. By embracing these options, you can align your end-of-life plans with your personal and environmental values, ultimately fostering a respectful and meaningful farewell. Don't miss the opportunity to redefine your relationship with death, making it a sacred and natural part of life’s journey.

     

     

     

    We dive into:

    (00:03) Planning Ahead for End-of-Life Care
    (10:04) End-of-Life Care Planning and Options
    (20:32) Compassionate End-of-Life Care Planning
    (27:02) Expanding Options for End-of-Life Care
    (32:44) Green End-of-Life Options and Rituals
    (44:27) Free Confident Caregiver Course Offer

     

    Buy 3 GOOD DEATH BOOKS and get the Confident Caregiver Course ($997 ) for FREE  CLICK HERE: https://thegooddeathbook.com

     

    Join the next GOOD DEATH Seminar Series Register here

     

    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!

     

     

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

    21 October 2024, 9:30 am
  • 25 minutes 21 seconds
    What is Hospice Care, What is Hospice Gap and How You Can Fill It

    What if our modern approach to hospice care is missing the mark on its original compassionate intent?

    Join us on this eye-opening journey through the rich history and transformative evolution of hospice care, from its heartfelt beginnings in the 1960s with Dame Cicely Saunders to its present-day challenges in the United States. We unover the pivotal moment when the Medicare hospice benefit of 1982 shifted the focus from non-profit, holistic care to the for-profit model, often compromising the essential values of time and empathy. As we navigate these changes, we shed light on the pressing need to restore the core principles of hospice to truly honor end-of-life experiences.

    Throughout this episode, we tackle the critical issue of the "hospice gap," highlighting the overwhelming burden on family caregivers and the systemic hurdles that contribute to inadequate end-of-life care. We explore how fear, delayed hospice engagement, and limited professional interaction leave families unsupported. To empower you, we share vital questions you should ask when selecting a hospice, emphasizing the importance of understanding the holistic nature of care and the role of family support. With resources from the Doula Givers Institute, we aim to equip you with the knowledge needed to revive the sacredness of life's final chapter.

     

     

     

     

    We dive into:

    (00:02) The Evolution of Hospice Care
    (08:16) Closing the Hospice Care Gap
    (17:14) Important Questions to Ask a Hospice

     

     

     

     

    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!

     

     

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

    14 October 2024, 9:30 am
  • 29 minutes 21 seconds
    The History of Death and How it Became the #1 Fear in the World

    Why is our modern society so terrified of death, and how can this fear be transformed into a meaningful part of life?

    Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, as we unpack the deep-seated anxieties surrounding death and explore how these fears can lead to poor decisions and missed opportunities for those at the end of life. Drawing from my experiences as a hospice and oncology nurse, I reflect on how historical reverence for death contrasts sharply with our current culture of avoidance, urging a shift in perspective to embrace death as a natural milestone.

    Discover the profound lessons that death imparts and the importance of living each day to the fullest in the face of life's uncertainty. We discuss the complexities of extending human life and the significant challenges the medical community faces in end-of-life care. Through touching narratives, including poignant personal stories, I highlight the need for honest conversations about Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders and advocate for a cultural shift to see death as a human experience rather than merely a medical issue. These discussions underscore the urgency for compassionate and innovative solutions in end-of-life care.

    In our final segment, we reflect on the universal themes of connection, love, and the preciousness of time, illustrated through the emotional journey of Maureen, a 44-year-old woman with gallbladder cancer. Her story underscores the critical importance of human connections in the final moments and the power of compassionate care. I emphasize the necessity of open conversations and education to ensure positive end-of-life experiences, inviting you to join our Good Death Seminar Series to transform our collective approach to death with kindness and support. Your questions and comments are welcome for future episodes as we continue this vital dialogue.

     

     

     

     

    We dive into:

    (00:02) The Fear of Death (10:18) Reframing the Narrative of Death (19:17) Embracing the Transition of End (26:27) Reframing the 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!

     

     

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

     

    7 October 2024, 9:30 am
  • 27 minutes 49 seconds
    The Good Death Seminar Series Announced

    What if you could ensure a dignified, compassionate end-of-life experience for a loved one?

    Join us in this transformative episode of Ask a Deaf Doula as Suzanne O'Brien, former hospice and oncology nurse, introduces the groundbreaking Good Death Seminar Series. This six-month, entirely free program is designed to bridge critical gaps in hospice care by equipping families with essential knowledge and skills. Suzanne passionately discusses the current state of hospice care, stressing the urgent need for better family preparation and support. From historical perspectives on death to practical caregiving skills, this series promises to be an invaluable resource.

    Mark your calendars for key sessions that will reshape your approach to end-of-life care. Tune in on December 4th to explore defining quality of life and making informed medical choices, and on December 18th for nine must-answer questions to ensure a good death experience. Discover the importance of family conversations about end-of-life wishes on January 1st, and gain tools for navigating family disagreements on January 15th. Finally, on January 29th, we will discuss three common end-of-life phenomena reported globally. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the end-of-life journey with dignity and grace.

     

    SIGN UP FOR THE FIRST "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on OCTOBER 2nd 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) Good Death Seminar Series Announcement
    (14:17) End-of-Life Seminar Series Information

     

     

     

     

    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!

     

     

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

     

    30 September 2024, 9:30 am
  • More Episodes? Get the App
About Ask A Death Doula
Links
Listeners Also Subscribed To
© MoonFM 2024. All rights reserved.