Ask a Death Doula

What happens when we embrace the reality of death instead of fearing it?

Join me, Suzanne O'Brien, founder of the International Doula Givers Institute, on the Ask a Death Doula podcast as we embark on a transformative journey through the complex world of end-of-life care with The Good Death Seminar Series. This episode promises to challenge your perceptions, with stories from my hospice experiences and insights from historical perspectives that confront our deep-seated fear of death. Together, we'll explore how aligning our intentions with compassion can redefine our understanding of what it truly means to experience a 'good death.'

Throughout our engaging Good Death Seminar Series, we delve into the intricacies of end-of-life care within the current medical system, questioning if we've forgotten that death is a natural part of life. Through personal anecdotes, from patients like Vivian to families navigating the difficult medical landscape, we highlight the necessity of a purpose-driven approach. We'll discuss the lost art of dying, dissecting cultural and language barriers that obscure the reality of mortality and urging for a return to empathy and understanding.

Our journey doesn't stop there. We address the commercialization of death and the urgency of respecting individual end-of-life wishes. By sharing poignant stories, like that of oncology patient Maureen, we examine how a supportive and informed environment can empower people facing the end of life. With a focus on compassion and personal responsibility, we explore how each of us, with the right education and support, can foster a world where everyone has the opportunity to experience a good death. Join us as we embrace the sacredness of death and its reflection on life, paving the way for a compassionate future.

SIGN UP FOR THE "GOOD DEATH" SEMINAR SERIES on January 15th 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:

(00:01) Ask a Death Doula Podcast Welcome

(06:09) Unveiling the Fear of Death

(11:51) Exposing the Fear of Death

(18:31) Reclaiming the Art of Dying

(32:13) Exploring Cultural Views on Death

(41:12) Facing the Challenges of End-of-Life Care

(49:04) Improving End-of-Life Care System

(59:48) Embracing Sacredness of Death

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!