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Learn about video advance directives and how to get involved in this game-changing innovation for the future of advance care planning. In this episode I host three guests – Patty Burgess, Dr. Fred Mirarchi, and Sheila Schultz – who have partnered together to create MIDEO University, the only organization to train and certify Advance Care Planning Educators (ACPE’s) in every community. They share how MIDEO’s video advance directives are revolutionizing end-of-life and emergency care in hospitals and how they are training doulas, advance care planners and other healthcare professionals to become paid educators using the MIDEO approach. Learn more at their website: www.YourVoiceDirectives.com Listen here: This episode includes: What MIDEO is and why Dr. Mirarchi was inspired to create a video advance directiveHow Patty and Sheila became inspired to partner with Dr. Mirarchi to create an educational program for end-of-life doulas and other healthcare professionalsHow MIDEO works and what differentiates it from other advance directivesHow certification as an ACPE can benefit an end-of-life doula professionallyWhy advance care planning should not focus solely on end-of-life scenariosWhy video directives are important during this time of the COVID pandemicHow an ACPE can benefit primary care health providers in their work with patientsHow to participate in MIDEO University and become certified as an ACPE Links mentioned in this episode: Previous interview with Dr. Mirarchi: Episode 249 and EOLU 2017Sign up to get more information about MIDEO University (next class starts in mid-February 2021)Webinars:Webinar One -January 27th at 3:00 PM EASTERN – DYING TO BE HEARD:  Medical “Stranger-Danger” and the Pitfalls of Traditional Advance Care PlanningWebinar Two – February 3rd at 3:00 PM EASTERN – LEAD THE CHARGE: A Radical New Approach to Advance Care Planning – Step on a Path with Purpose AND ProfitLearn more about MIDEO hereSign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this linkSupport your local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulSubscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

Listen as Rabbi Steve Leder shares the wisdom learned through caring for the spiritual needs of his temple members at the end of life. My guest Rabbi Steve Leder is the senior rabbi of Wilshire Boulevard Temple in Los Angeles and the author of several books including the recently released The Beauty of What Remains: How Our Greatest Fear Becomes Our Greatest Gift. His beautifully-written book is based upon his experience providing spiritual care to thousands of temple members and their families as they faced the end of life. Interwoven with dozens of stories he learned as “Rabbi Steve” are the personal stories of “Son Steve”, navigating his father’s illness and eventual death from Alzheimer’s dementia. We share a deep and thoughtful conversation about the challenges of facing death and the beautiful life lessons it teaches us. Learn more about Rabbi Steve’s work at his website: www.SteveLeder.com Get the book on Bookshop or Amazon Listen here: This episode includes: What inspired Rabbi Steve to write this bookThe meaning of the title “The Beauty of What Remains”Advice for how to “show up” for the dyingDealing with the character flaws and secrets of the deceased when writing a eulogyThe need for greater honesty and authenticity when being with the dyingWhy we can’t understand deep grief until we experience it ourselvesWhy funerals during COVID may actually be more meaningful than beforeHow the dead speak to us through our memoriesWhy we must focus on “being a good ancestor” to those who will follow us “Dying makes perfect sense to the dying, just not to the living; the same way that breathing underwater makes perfect sense to the fish but not to us.”Rabbi Steve Leder Links mentioned in this episode: Get The Beauty of What Remains hereCheck out “10 Days to Activate Revolutionary Love” hereSign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this linkSupport your local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulSubscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu, especially my newest supporter S. Robertson! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn about a book of simple wisdom and tools for grief that can change your entire day. My guest Shelby Forsythia is an author and podcast host who shares a combination of practical tools and intuitive guidance to help grieving people find peace of mind after devastating loss. She discusses her latest book Your Grief, Your Way which provides brief inspirational passages for each day of the year to support the grieving process for anyone who is dealing with loss. This is just the book we all need in 2021! Learn more about her work, podcasts and books at her website: www.shelbyforsythia.com Get the book on Bookshop or Amazon Listen here: This episode includes: Shelby’s personal journey with griefHow grief is universal but also unique to each personWhat inspired her to write Your Grief, Your Way as a daily guideWhy we can’t find meaning in grief until we are looking back at it from a later time in lifeWhy the whole world needs to do some grief work right now in 2021Some practical and simple tools from the book to get through the dayWhy we need to share the story of our grief over and over and how the story changes with timeHow Shelby has stayed in touch with her Mom after her death Links mentioned in this episode: Vigil for Transforming AngerGet Your Grief, Your Way hereFinding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief by David KesslerI Hear You by Michael SorensonThere is No Good Card for This by Kelsey Crowe PhD and Emily McDowellConnect with Molly Clark’s Hiking Women in Training on FacebookConnect with Fr. Richard Rohr’s Center for Action and Contemplation hereSign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this link TonglenDownload Support your local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulSubscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

On the ninth of each month we have been called to hold space in our communities on life, death and transformation by ObservetheNinth.org. Today’s vigil will hold space for the rightful anger we are all dealing with right now and help us transform it to power. May it bring you peace and comfort. Vigil for Transforming Anger VIGIL-Script-January-2021Download Anger is the deepest form of compassion, for another, for the world, for the self, for a life, for the body, for a family and for all our ideals, all vulnerable and all, possibly about to be hurt. Stripped of physical imprisonment and violent reaction, anger is the purest form of care, the internal living flame of anger always illuminates what we belong to, what we wish to protect and what we are willing to hazard ourselves for … What we name as anger is actually only the incoherent physical incapacity to sustain this deep form of care in our outer daily life; the unwillingness to be large enough and generous enough to hold what we love helplessly in our bodies or our mind with the clarity and breadth of our whole being.”David Whyte

Learn how we can help humanity and the planet get through a challenging new year. In this solo episode I share a discussion about what we can and should bring to the world this year as death-aware, death-positive individuals. During the past year the world has been turned upside down with the global pandemic, economic downturn, systemic racism, and climate change. As we begin this new year we are still suffering but we are better prepared for the changes that are happening and the world needs us to get through these difficult days. Listen here: This episode includes: Many people in our society are dealing with despair, depression, anxiety and shock after being exposed to the reality of our fragile existence here. Those of us who are comfortable with death need to step up to help others cope with changeThe world needs from us:CalmnessCreativityBalanceCollaborationIntegrityPresenceWe need a non-dual approach to overcome the polarization of our society Links mentioned in this episode: The Conference on Death and Bereavement Studies: A Professional Development Symposium – January 10, 2021 Learn more hereSpiritual Journeys in Chronic Illness Course – with Terri Daniels – starts January 7th Learn more hereSign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this linkSupport you local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulSubscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu, especially my newest supporter Delores Hammons! Your contributions make all the difference!

One of the most challenging years of our lives is drawing to a close and it’s time to honor all of the grief we have experienced. In this final episode of 2020 I share some poems and verses that have helped me give words to the grief I’ve experienced this year. It’s important to grieve what has been lost before we move on to setting goals and making plans for next year so this final week of 2020 is the perfect time to “be” with our grief. Wishing you a blessed ending to this year and a hopeful and meaningful beginning of the new one! Listen here: This episode includes: Why we need to make a place for our griefPoem: Talking to Grief by Denise LevertovWhy we cannot understand our own grief when we are in the middle of itQuote from Morihei UeshibaHow a non-dual perspective of grief helps us eventually find our own answers within rather than outside of ourselvesVerse by Lao TzuLearn to just “be” in grief rather than “doing” griefPoem: Inukshuk by Rob JacquesFinding grace in little reminders that others have also traveled this road of griefPrayer by Molly Fumia This is the miracle you already have … and always ask for … in your moments of forgetful suffering. Links mentioned in this episode: Episode 267: Holding All the Joy and All the Sorrow The Conference on Death and Bereavement Studies: A Professional Development Symposium – January 10, 2021 Learn more hereSpiritual Journeys in Chronic Illness Course – with Terri Daniels – starts January 7th Learn more hereSign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this linkSupport you local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulSubscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn why the suffering we have endured in 2020 might be the prelude to growth and transformation in the future. Today I’m sharing with you an interview from the Good Grief Radio Show where host Cheryl Jones talked to me about my new book The Journey from Ego to Soul. We have a wonderful conversation discussing the transformation that is possible after everything falls apart in life and the lessons that we can learn when we make this inward, spiritual journey. Check out Cheryl’s radio show at the link: Good Grief Radio Get The Journey from Ego to Soul here Listen here: This episode includes: Why 2020 is a ripe time for self-exploration and growthWhy we can’t skip over the suffering of lifeWe can’t “fix” other people – we can only support their journeyThe challenge of COVID is to learn to share love when we can’t be in the same physical spaceGalaxy view of life vs Garden viewWe have to love ourselves first before we find a healthy partnerWhen we are unable to forgive we keep our energy tied up in the pastBeing fully present allows us to find our “purpose” more easilyWhy it’s important to learn how to surrender to what life is bringing usEnjoy each moment because nothing lasts and everything changesPoem by Maria Eugenia Vaz Ferreira Links mentioned in this episode: The Conference on Death and Bereavement Studies: A Professional Development Symposium – January 10, 2021 Learn more hereSpiritual Journeys in Chronic Illness Course – with Terri Daniels – starts January 7th Learn more hereSign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this linkSupport you local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulSubscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu, especially my newest supporter Jen! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn how a long journey through cancer prepared Anna to be a hospice volunteer and inspired her spiritual growth. My guest Anna Byrne holds a combined degree in Psychology and Gerontology, is a certified teacher, and has been a coordinator for a hospice society in British Columbia. She survived 4 cancer diagnoses in her 30’s and then worked as a volunteer for an elderly hospice patient throughout one entire summer. She is the author of the book Seven Year Summer which tells the story of her own journey through cancer and her days of sitting at Eleanor’s bedside, discussing life and the approach of death. Learn more at her website: https://annabyrne2.wixsite.com/mysite Get the book here Listen here: This episode includes: How Anna’s perspective on cancer changed throughout her 4 diagnosesThe “hero’s journey” of cancer treatment and how it fell apart for AnnaThe spiritual tools and support that helped Anna navigate her illness and lossesThe use of “battle” metaphors in medicine and how they cause harmThe difference between curing and healingHow Anna’s suffering prepared her to be a hospice volunteer for EleanorThe difference between chronos and kairos timeHow caregivers can better support patients who are facing the end of lifeHow writing the book helped Anna heal some of the trauma of her cancer journey Links mentioned in this episode: The Conference on Death and Bereavement Studies: A Professional Development Symposium – January 10, 2021 Learn more hereSpiritual Journeys in Chronic Illness Course – with Terri Daniels – starts January 7th Learn more hereSign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this linkSupport you local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulSubscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

On the ninth of each month we have been called to hold space in our communities on life, death and transformation by ObservetheNinth.org. Today’s vigil will hold space for love and compassion for all who are oppressed by systemic injustice and by the weight of grief and fear. May it bring you peace and comfort. Vigil for Those Who Are Oppressed VIGIL-Script-December-2020Download Rainer Maria Rilke, Sonnets to Orpheus II, 29 Quiet friend who has come so far, feel how your breathing makes more space around you. Let this darkness be a bell tower and you the bell. As you ring, what batters you becomes your strength. Move back and forth into the change. What is it like, such intensity of pain? If the drink is bitter, turn yourself to wine. In this uncontainable night, be the mystery at the crossroads of your senses, the meaning discovered there. And if the world has ceased to hear you, say to the silent earth: I flow. To the rushing water, speak: I am.

Learn why this is the perfect month to practice generosity in its many forms. In this solo episode I challenge you to join me in a month of giving as we explore the benefits of generosity to ourselves and others. Now more than ever we need to be willing to give to one another as we celebrate the coming holidays. Download the handout for this episode below: A-Month-of-GivingDownload Listen here: This episode includes: Health benefits of generosityHow giving to others creates greater happinessWhy we need generosity as this year of the pandemic comes to a closeHow our brains are wired for generosityWhy generosity is contagiousHow generosity stimulates the caregiving part of the brainThe 4-week “giving” challenge for the month of December When Giving is All We Have by Alberto Rios                                                 One river gives                                               Its journey to the next. We give because someone gave to us. We give because nobody gave to us. We give because giving has changed us. We give because giving could have changed us. We have been better for it, We have been wounded by it— Giving has many faces: It is loud and quiet, Big, though small, diamond in wood-nails. Its story is old, the plot worn and the pages too, But we read this book, anyway, over and again: Giving is, first and every time, hand to hand, Mine to yours, yours to mine. You gave me blue and I gave you yellow. Together we are simple green. You gave me What you did not have, and I gave you What I had to give—together, we made Something greater from the difference. Links mentioned in this episode: Sign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this linkSupport you local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulGreater Good Science Center White Paper on GenerosityDavid Roland interview – Episode 272Leave Your Light On – Episode 266 Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu, especially my newest supporter John Kuntz! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn how and why we need to train many more family and paid caregivers to meet the needs of our aging population, especially during COVID-19. My guest Roz Jones is the founder of Jacksonville’s Best Caregivers, an organization in Jacksonville FL that provides short and long term caregivers for facilities and families. She is also an author, speaker, crisis counselor and caregiver coach who trains new caregivers and their family members to offer care at home to their ill loved ones. Learn more about her work at her website: www.thecaregivercafe.net Listen here: This episode includes: Top 6 things brand new caregivers need to learn before they start caring for a loved oneHow caregiving has changed during COVID-19What precautions family caregivers should take to keep their loved one safe from COVID-19Why setting clear boundaries is one of the most important tips for caregivers to avoid burnoutHow to have productive conversations with ill loved ones about difficult subjects like advance directives, financial issues, loss of independence, end of lifeWhy “Loneliness Kills” the elderly, how COVID-19 has made it worse, and how to helpSelf-care tips for caregiversHow to train with Roz to be a well-informed and effective family caregiver Links mentioned in this episode: Sign up for the 2021 online reading group A Year of Reading Dangerously at this linkSupport you local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to SoulClick here to set up a consultation with Roz: bit.ly/speakwithrozView Roz’ YouTube channel: Jacksonville’s Best Caregivers Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu, especially my newest supporter Jaime Byrne and renewing supporter Nancy Walker! Your contributions make all the difference!

For this Thanksgiving holiday enjoy a brief story about Grace and how it meets us where we are! Listen here: The Little Moments of Grace Featured Poem: Being Home by Gunilla Norris Many times today I will cross over a threshold.  I hope I will catch a few of those times. I need to remember that my life is, in fact, a continuous series of thresholds:  from one moment to the next, from one thought to the next, from one action to the next. Help me appreciate how awesome this is.  How many are the chances to be really alive.  Help me cross into the present moment – into wonder, into Your grace:  the “now-place,” where we all are, unfolding moment by moment. 

Learn some practical ideas for self-care and creative ways to find meaning in the holidays during this stressful time of COVID-19. In this solo episode I share some thoughts about we need to care for ourselves to prevent burnout during this holiday season and some ideas for reimagining our celebrations as we cope with COVID-19. Find some inspiration for your holidays and tips for staying energized and positive during the coming months. Get the handout mentioned in the podcast at the link below: Quick-Tips-for-SelfCareDownload Listen here: This episode includes: Why self-care is important now and during the holidaysWhat aspects of the holidays people find most meaningful (in surveys)Sources of stress during holiday timesHow holiday joys can become stresses if there is no balanceHow COVID-19 is changing what is possible this year for celebrations and why this could be an opportunity to rethink the holidaysFinding new ways to be “together” during the holidaysNew creative ideas for gift-giving when finances are limitedTips for self-care and for re-energizing during stressful times Links mentioned in this episode: Support you local bookstore by buying my books on Bookshop and Indiebound: 7 Lessons for Living from the Dying and The Journey from Ego to Soul Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn about new research using psychedelic medications to help patients at the end of life with depression and anxiety. My guest Dr. Ira Byock is a leading palliative care physician, author and public advocate for improving care through the end of life. In this discussion he shares important information about psychedelic medications and the benefits they offer to patients at the end of life. There is current research available that shows the value of these medications especially for patients with depression, anxiety and loss of meaning who experience a profound reframing of life. Learn more about Dr. Byock’s work at his website: www.irabyock.org Listen here: This episode includes: How Dr. Byock got interested in studying psychedelic medications for palliative and hospice patientsWhat new research is revealing about the benefits of psychedelics for various medical conditionsHow psychedelics have been shown to be helpful with depression, anxiety and demoralization syndromeThe dangers of recreational use of psychedelics vs. controlled therapeutic useWhat a “psychedelic assisted therapeutic experience” consists ofHow a psychedelic experience can rewrite the brain’s “default mode network”The need for further research on these medications Links mentioned in this episode: Get my new book The Journey from Ego to Soul: How to Transform Your Life When Everything Falls Apartebook: books2read.com/u/3GAMNOPrint book: Amazon  IndieboundAudiobook  Apple and moreListen to Love Over Fear stories hereNovember 9th Vigil recording here Taking Psychedelics Seriously – ArticleBook: How to Change Your Mind by Michael PollanCalifornia Institute of Integral StudiesWatch the interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fkaBt45dFr0 Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn how it’s possible to experience growth and transformation through all types of suffering and trauma in life. My guest David Roland is a clinical psychologist and the author of the book The Power of Suffering: Growing through life crises, which draws together the real life stories of 11 people who survived crises and grew in transformative ways. David shares his wisdom and personal experience with post-traumatic growth and how strengthen our resilience. Learn more at his website: www.davidroland.com.au Get David’s book here Listen here: This episode includes: David’s personal journey through sufferingThe common stages of adjustment that occur after traumaThe neurological and emotional difference between compassion and empathyCompassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)The 3 circuits of the human brain and how to activate the 3rd (caregiving) circuit during times of stressThe 6 domains of growth that can occur after traumaPersonal courageAppreciation for lifeDeeper connections with peopleClearer sense of life purpose and meaningIncreased spiritualityIncreased compassionHow some people get “stuck” in their suffering processPractices for increasing resilience and coping with traumaHow to be an “expert companion” for others who are suffering Links mentioned in this episode: Get my new book The Journey from Ego to Soul: How to Transform Your Life When Everything Falls Apartebook: books2read.com/u/3GAMNOPrint book: Amazon  IndieboundAudiobook  Apple and moreSign up here for free workshop on November 12th – Finding GRACE in Times of SufferingSign up here for Mortality: Life & Death During a Pandemic on November 14thGet David’s book here: The Power of SufferingTania Singer studies of compassion and the brain Paul Gilbert book: Compassion Focused Therapy Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn how a gratitude practice can change your brain and your life for the better according to research. In this solo episode I share some of the impressive research that has been conducted about the benefits of practicing gratitude on a regular basis. As we continue to face uncertainty, loss, grief, polarization, inequality and divisiveness in our society during this pandemic year we can all use a practice to bring positivity and light into our lives. For this month of November I’m challenging myself (and you) to practice gratitude intentionally every day to shift our energy toward goodness and light and help us better negotiate the challenging times ahead of us. I hope you’ll join me! Download and print the handout below: A-Month-of-GratitudeDownload Listen here: This episode includes: Why we need more gratitude in our lives right nowThe emotional benefits of a gratitude practice according to research by the Greater Good Science CenterHow gratitude improves our physical health and relationshipsGratitude is “the mother of all virtues” and helps us develop more patience, humility and wisdom4 factors of a gratitude practicebenefits accrue over timebenefits lastgrateful thoughts and letters don’t have to be shared with others to have a positive effectgratitude rewires the brain4 ways gratitude creates changefocuses us on the present momentoverrides negative emotionsincreases resilienceincreases our sense of self-worthMy 4-week gratitude challenge for November 2020 (download the handout above) Links mentioned in this episode: Get my new book The Journey from Ego to Soul: How to Transform Your Life When Everything Falls Apart ebook: books2read.com/u/3GAMNOPrint book: Amazon IndieboundAudiobook coming soon on Audible and AppleSign up here for free workshop on November 12th – Finding GRACE in Times of SufferingGreater Good Science Center Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn why workers in the end-of-life field can benefit from basic business skills whether they practice in a volunteer or for-profit model. My guest Kimberly King Wise is a certified End-of-Life Doula and Home Funeral Guide and also has years of experience as a business manager and virtual assistant. She discusses how business knowledge and skills can help us create viable work in the end-of-life arena that will enable us to help more people and change our communities. We’ll learn how she can help us get our endeavors off the ground and lessen our stress levels as we navigate the business aspect of end-of-life care. Learn more about her work: www.deathpositivebusiness.com Listen here: This episode includes: The challenge of charging money in exchange for sacred workThe mindset shift from being an employee to being an entrepreneur Why creating a death-positive business is especially difficult in our death-phobic societyThe one skill death doulas most need to learn in order to grow their referrals and help more peopleHow to work your way out of your paid job gradually rather than making a sudden career changeThe importance of the Know-Like-Trust factor in educating our communities about death-positive workWhy we need long-term thinking in the death-positive movement rather than short-termHow “death’s big tent” has plenty of room for every model of care and service in our field so we need to accept and encourage one another Links mentioned in this episode: Check out my new book The Journey from Ego to Soul hereEp 215 : Death’s Big TentKimberly’s Death Positive Business websiteKickstart Your Death-Positive Business CourseKimberly’s email address: kimberly@thewiseassistant.com Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn how to restore sacredness to grief and embrace those who are often excluded from the shared grief experience. My guest Joél Simone Anthony is a licensed funeral director and sacred grief practitioner in Atlanta, Georgia. She utilizes spirituality that is deeply rooted in ancient wisdom in her work guiding families toward healing after a death has occurred. Joél is also a leader in the movement to expose and heal systemic racism in death care and teaches cultural competency courses for funeral professionals. Learn more about her work at her website: www.thegravewoman.com Listen here: This episode includes: Joél’s calling to become a funeral directorHow her upbringing exposed her to ancient African culture that informs her work todayDefinition and examples of disenfranchised griefHow ignoring grief has emotional and mental health consequencesHow COVID interferes with funeral rituals and ideas for creating a sense of community during a time of isolationSimple rituals to help with grief“The Grief Kit” as a tool for dealing with lossHow systemic racism in death care can occur due to a lack of educationJoél’s courses:Shifting Deathcare: Tools for a New Paradigm (in collaboration with others)Self Care for Death ProfessionalsRacism in Death CareCultural Competency for Funeral Professionals Links mentioned in this episode: View the cover of my next book (The Journey from Ego to Soul) hereGet the Grief Kit hereCourse: Shifting Deathcare: Tools for a New Paradigm – Learn more hereJoél’s other courses: Learn more hereSayin’ It Louder Workshop: Get the replay here Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

Learn how to utilize ancient techniques in caring for the dying in this modern world. My guest Anne-Marie Keppel is a death doula and home funeral guide who will share with us some of the ancient techniques of death care that she utilizes in her work as a community death care provider. She is the author of the books Death Nesting: Ancient & Modern Death Doula Techniques, Mindfulness Practices and Herbal Care and The Death of Faefolk, a book for teens. Learn more at her website: www.stardustmeadow.com Listen here: This episode includes: How Anne-Marie became interested in being a death doulaThe two doula paths: ancient and modern and why we need bothHow to create a “death nest” for a dying loved oneThe use of herbs in doula practiceCreative tips for helping children deal with deathSuggestions for “moving with grief”Why death doula training for teenagers is a good ideaHow to use the book Death Nesting as a resource Links mentioned in this episode: View the cover of my next book (The Journey from Ego to Soul) hereGet Anne-Marie’s book Death Nesting here (Commission link*)Read Yes! Magazine article on death doulas by Dr. Cynthia Greenlee hereBooks by Victoria Sweet: God’s Hotel and Slow Medicine (Commission links*)Community Deathcare Training with LaShanna Williams: www.asacredpassing.orgFind Death Doula Training for Teens here Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!

In this solo episode I share my thoughts on the fact that joy and sorrow are interwoven throughout our lives just as life and death are inextricable connected. Using stories and poetry I discuss how to carry both joy and sorrow without denying or repressing the pain of our personal and collective grief. Listen here: This episode includes: How current events are requiring us to learn to hold joy and sorrow at onceWhy we need a strong spiritual core as we go through life in 2020How to strengthen our spiritual core:Go deep withinAssessment the alignment between your inner values and outer behaviorPractice being in the present momentGratitudeLovingkindness BlessingWhy we need to mourn our losses (personal and collective) on a daily basis and how to do itThe importance of “finding the good” within our pain and sorrowPoems shared:“Joy and Sorrow” by Kahlil Gibran“Love Sorrow” by Mary Oliver“In Lieu of Flowers” by Shawna Lemay Links mentioned in this episode: View the cover of my next book (The Journey from Ego to Soul) here Subscribe to this podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Stitcher RadioCheck out the Series I’ve recorded in the past hereJoin the team at Patreon.com/eolu and get access to the EOLU mug: “Mind if we talk about death?” (only Patrons can purchase it). PLUS get our new bonuses: the monthly EOL News Update, movie reviews from 2 Doctors and a Movie, and automatic access to A Year of Reading Dangerously! If you enjoy this content please share it with others and consider leaving a review on iTunes! Thanks again to all supporters on my page at Patreon.com/eolu! Your contributions make all the difference!