Ask a Death Doula

Suzanne B. O’Brien RN
Ask a Death Doula

Ask a Death Doula with experienced hospice and oncology nurse, Suzanne B. O’Brien RN is a platform to empower, heal and inspire people through brining back the sacred awareness of death and all that it teaches us about life.This podcast is to help people accept death as a natural part of life and provide a safe space to learn about the subject openly. This education is for family caregivers wanting to learn how to care for those at the end of life and is packed with invaluable information for professional Death Doulas. Death is a natural part of life, and understanding it can help us to live our lives more fully. By facing the reality of death, we can gain a better understanding of our own existence and find meaning in life. When we come to terms with death, we can turn our fear into a source of strength and courage. Ultimately, learning about death can help us to live more meaningful lives by giving us perspective on what really matters in life. By coming to terms with mortality, we gain insight into how precious each moment is and how important it is to make the most out of every day. Suzanne B. O’Brien RN is a former hospice and oncology nurse and the founder of International Doulagivers Institute. She is a founding member of The National Hospice and Palliative Care organization NHPCO’s End of Life Doula Council and a founding member and former Vice President of NEDA National End of Life Doula Alliance. Suzanne was awarded “Worldwide Leader in Healthcare” by the International Nurses Association in 2015 for creating Doulagivers Institute. Suzanne was named Humanitarian Ambassador for Oprah Magazine in 2019 for her work to bring peace and comfort to those facing the end of life around the world.

  1. DEC 11

    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: Doulagivers Institute The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK  The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar  Buy The Good Death Book   80-90% of a positive end of life depends on these two things: Knowing the basic skills on how to care for someone at the end of life and planning ahead - and BOTH Doulagivers Institute is giving you for FREE! Access them Below! Making your wishes known is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. Download The Doulagivers 9 Choice Advance Directive now! It's FREE!     More about what we do at Doulagivers Institute - Click here!

    22 min

  2. DEC 5

    The Good Death Podcast Series: Dr. Michael Fratkin's Journey from Traditional Medicine to Psychedelic Healing

    In this podcast episode, we explore Dr. Michael Fratkin’s journey as a rural palliative care physician who has transformed end-of-life care by integrating psychedelic healing. Influenced by personal experiences, such as his grandfather’s early death and the AIDS crisis, Dr. Fratkin emphasizes compassion and innovation. He founded Resolution Care, a home-based palliative program using technology to reach more people. The episode highlights psychedelic therapy’s potential to enhance consciousness and healing at life’s end stages, focusing on support systems and the roles of gratitude, forgiveness, and awe in healing. Join us to learn about redefining end-of-life care and building informed communities around these therapies.

    48 min

  3. DEC 2

    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: Doulagivers Institute The NEXT Free Level 1 End of Life Doula Training Registration LINK  The NEXT Free Doulagivers Discovery Webinar  The Family Recovery Coach Nar-Anon Family Groups Al-Anon Family Groups Parents of Addicted Loved Ones   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!Learn more about Darryl Rodgers and what he do - Click here!Reach out to Darryl Rodgers directly - Click here!

    35 min

  4. NOV 28

    How Being Thankful Can Save Your Life

    In this podcast episode, Suzanne shares a transformative journey from feeling unfulfilled as a hospital nurse to finding profound connection and purpose as a hospice nurse. Inspired by the lessons learned from end-of-life patients, the episode delves into the powerful impact of gratitude on personal growth and fulfillment. It explores the science behind gratitude, including Harvard studies that highlight its significant benefits for well-being. Suzanne introduces a simple daily technique to cultivate gratitude, encouraging listeners to embrace heart-centered living. The episode also discusses the concept of high vibrational energy and the ”law of vibration,” emphasizing how a grateful mindset can elevate our experiences and attract positive energies. By adopting a compassionate and non-judgmental perspective, listeners are invited to align with their higher purpose and embark on a journey of love and service. Suzanne also shares personal anecdotes and insights, illustrating how gratitude can shift our vibrational state, leading to a more vibrant and connected life.

    36 min

  5. NOV 11

    Celebrating National Caregiver Month and Why I Wrote THE GOOD DEATH BOOK

    In this podcast episode, host Suzanne O’Brien, a seasoned hospice and oncology nurse, shares valuable insights and stories from her book, ”The Good Death.” The episode focuses on the challenges faced by the ”sandwich generation,” who are tasked with caring for both aging parents and children while managing their careers. Suzanne highlights the urgent need for support systems and education to reduce the fear surrounding death and improve end-of-life care. Through heartening stories and testimonials, she illustrates how embracing death as a natural part of life can lead to healing and peace. The episode also delves into the importance of end-of-life rituals and making informed choices about after-death plans. Suzanne emphasizes the empowerment that comes from understanding these choices and challenges common misconceptions about death. In celebration of National Caregiver Month, she pays tribute to the dedication of caregivers and underscores the need for spreading awareness and resources to support them. Listeners are encouraged to approach end-of-life experiences with compassion and dignity, ultimately enriching their understanding of life and death.

    30 min

  6. NOV 4

    Surviving Hurricane Milton

    In this podcast episode, Suzanne O’Brien shares her transformative experience of enduring Hurricane Milton. The episode explores the profound lessons of love and resilience, highlighting the strong bond between humans and their pets during crises. Suzanne discusses her journey from personal survival to discovering her true calling as a hospice nurse, emphasizing the importance of aligning with one’s purpose. She also addresses the critical role of end-of-life choices in combating climate change, advocating for sustainable options like green burials. Suzanne introduces her new book, ”The Good Death,” which serves as a guide for navigating these choices with gratitude and environmental consciousness. The episode encourages listeners to embrace their gifts, practice forgiveness, and contribute positively to the world.

    28 min

  7. OCT 28

    The First Phase of End-of-Life and What You Can Do to Support a Dying Loved One

    In this enlightening podcast episode, Suzanne, a seasoned hospice and oncology nurse, delves into the profound transition from fear to compassion in end-of-life care. Drawing on her extensive experience, she provides invaluable insights and practical tools to support individuals and families facing terminal diagnoses. The episode emphasizes the importance of empowering conversations, choosing love and kindness over fear, and honoring the wishes of those nearing the end of life. Through touching stories and the introduction of the Good Death Seminar Series, listeners learn how education, trust, and compassion can create meaningful and dignified end-of-life experiences. Key chapters explore the shock phase following a terminal diagnosis, empowering end-of-life discussions, and creating positive experiences through kindness and support. This episode is a heartfelt guide for those seeking to navigate the end-of-life journey with love and understanding.

    34 min

  8. OCT 21

    How To Be A Confident Caregiver

    In this podcast episode, listeners are guided through the journey of becoming confident caregivers, particularly in the context of end-of-life planning. The episode emphasizes the importance of proactive preparation and informed decision-making in caregiving, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges faced by caregivers. Through personal anecdotes and expert advice, the host discusses the significance of family discussions about future care preferences and explores various living arrangements and care options, including the role of death doulas. The episode also delves into eco-friendly body disposition methods, such as natural burials, water cremation, and human composting, encouraging listeners to consider sustainable choices that align with personal and environmental values. By reframing end-of-life conversations with compassion and sustainability, the podcast aims to empower caregivers and promote a respectful and meaningful farewell for their loved ones.

    47 min
See All (100)

4.9
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Ask a Death Doula with experienced hospice and oncology nurse, Suzanne B. O’Brien RN is a platform to empower, heal and inspire people through brining back the sacred awareness of death and all that it teaches us about life.This podcast is to help people accept death as a natural part of life and provide a safe space to learn about the subject openly. This education is for family caregivers wanting to learn how to care for those at the end of life and is packed with invaluable information for professional Death Doulas. Death is a natural part of life, and understanding it can help us to live our lives more fully. By facing the reality of death, we can gain a better understanding of our own existence and find meaning in life. When we come to terms with death, we can turn our fear into a source of strength and courage. Ultimately, learning about death can help us to live more meaningful lives by giving us perspective on what really matters in life. By coming to terms with mortality, we gain insight into how precious each moment is and how important it is to make the most out of every day. Suzanne B. O’Brien RN is a former hospice and oncology nurse and the founder of International Doulagivers Institute. She is a founding member of The National Hospice and Palliative Care organization NHPCO’s End of Life Doula Council and a founding member and former Vice President of NEDA National End of Life Doula Alliance. Suzanne was awarded “Worldwide Leader in Healthcare” by the International Nurses Association in 2015 for creating Doulagivers Institute. Suzanne was named Humanitarian Ambassador for Oprah Magazine in 2019 for her work to bring peace and comfort to those facing the end of life around the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Suzanne B. O’Brien RN
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2024
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2017 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Ask a Death Doula

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