Podcasts about end of life care

Why don't more doctors talk about death? Dr. Lydia Dugdale has been asking this question since she was a medical student. She is the Silberberg Professor of Medicine and directs the Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, and two books on how we die, including "The Lost Art of Dying." "Most medical professionals today are very unpracticed at talking to patients about their mortality," she says. Not only unpracticed, but even themselves afraid. In this bonus clip from Episode 232 with Macie Bridge, Dugdale traces the path from that early perplexity on the wards to the ars moriendi, the medieval art of dying, grounded in the idea that dying is part of living, so if you want to die well you have to live well. Lydia comments on the emergence of palliative care and the way it let physicians hand conversations about death to specialists; the doctor who inherited the priest's old place at the threshold between life and death; the death anxiety clinicians carry without examining; virtue as preparation for dying, and community as the other half of living well; the unrepresented patients of New York City who die alone; and a grumpy old man, hospitalized for 20 years, who wept when she read aloud what she had written about him. Episode Highlights “Most medical professionals today are very unpracticed at talking to patients about their mortality.” “we are really the intermediaries between life and death, I'm not saying we're priests, but that used to be the role of the priest. And so it is now the role of the physician. “If you want to die well, you have to live well.” We have to be all in or we end up like all of these patients here in New York City who have no one that I can reach out to as they're dying. “He started weeping and he said, someone finally saw me. Someone finally saw me. I've been in this hospital for 20 years and I didn't think anyone ever saw me.” About Lydia Dugdale Lydia Dugdale is a physician and medical ethicist who has spent fifteen years asking why medicine finds death so hard to talk about. She is the Silberberg Professor of Medicine at Columbia, directs the Columbia Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, and co-directs clinical ethics at NewYork-Presbyterian Milstein Hospital, where she still sees patients. She edited "Dying in the Twenty-First Century" and wrote "The Lost Art of Dying," a modern ars moriendi. She trained at the University of Chicago and Yale-New Haven Hospital, holds a master's in ethics from Yale Divinity School, and in 2025 founded the nonprofit Heal the Nation. Helpful Links and Resources “Dying Alone,” the full Episode 232 with Lydia Dugdale and Macie Bridge: https://faith.yale.edu/media/dying-alone Lydia Dugdale's website: https://lydiadugdale.com/ The Lost Art of Dying: Reviving Forgotten Wisdom, Lydia Dugdale's book: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-lost-art-of-dying-ls-dugdale Dying in the Twenty-First Century, edited by Lydia Dugdale: https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262534598/dying-in-the-twenty-first-century/ Columbia Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, which Dugdale directs: https://www.vagelos.columbia.edu/departments-centers/columbia-center-clinical-medical-ethics Columbia Center for Clinical Medical Ethics on X: https://x.com/columbia_ccme Ars moriendi, the medieval art of dying, at the Morgan Library and Museum: https://www.themorgan.org/blog/new-acquisition-ars-moriendi-blockbook Ars moriendi block book, 1475, at the Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov/item/2021666798/ Lydia Dugdale at the Yale Center for Faith and Culture: https://faith.yale.edu/people/lydia-dugdale-md Show Notes Death anxiety in medicine Why doctors avoid frank conversations about mortality Palliative care's arrival as a discipline, and what it made possible Real gains in symptom relief for the sick and the dying The unintended cost: death conversations outsourced to specialists Clinicians as intermediaries between life and death The priest's old place at the threshold, now the physician's Nurses at the bedside, doctors calling the shots on treatment Existential questions physicians have never worked through A colleague who would never tell a patient they were dying, out of her own fear of death Digging into how other times and places handled mortality Ars moriendi: the medieval genre on the preparation for death Illustrated editions made for people who could not read Fifteen years and two books spent reviving the art of dying Living well as the precondition of dying well Virtue as preparation: hope, patience, joy against bitterness and despair The role of community in dying well New York's unrepresented patients, dying alone A reader estranged from his adult children who committed to years of repair after the book Relationship as ongoing work: rupture, forgiveness, iron sharpening iron A long-hospitalized patient nobody wanted assigned to their team Modeling care for young doctors, and being verbally destroyed in front of them Loneliness of the neighbor, the colleague, the checkout person Practice as the only way to get better at it #ForTheLifeOfTheWorld #LydiaDugdale #TheLostArtOfDying #ArsMoriendi #MedicalEthics #DyingWell #Loneliness #EndOfLifeCare Production Notes This podcast featured Lydia Dugdale Edited and Produced by Evan Rosa Hosted by Evan Rosa Production Assistance by Noah Senthil A Production of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture at Yale Divinity School https://faith.yale.edu/about Support For the Life of the World podcast by giving to the Yale Center for Faith & Culture: https://faith.yale.edu/give

An ER nurse who spent 15 years on the night shift says she can predict which patients heal fastest — and it has nothing to do with diet or exercise. It's whether someone showed up for them and refused to stay quiet. In this episode, Matt Staub, CEO of Your Health, sits down with Jamie Preston to unpack that idea from every angle: as a son who once filled a hospital waiting room with 20 advocates for his mother's liver transplant, as a nursing home administrator who sat with a dying patient who had no one else, and as a cancer patient who carried a notebook into every appointment so he wouldn't forget the questions that mattered. Together they explore: Why family advocates get prioritized in the ER — and it isn't about fear of being sued The data behind advocacy: a 65% drop in 30-day hospital readmissions and a 98% staff satisfaction rate when patients have someone in their corner How to ask a "dumb" question without ever sounding dumb — and why staff want you to ask it What to do when a well-meaning advocate crosses the line into disrespect, and how healthcare workers can hold the line with empathy intact The "teach-back" method that helps patients actually retain what they were told Why the best advocates aren't the loudest in the room — they're the most present This is a conversation about the most overlooked job in healthcare: the one nobody's officially hired for, but everybody eventually needs. Whether you're a caregiver, a patient, or the clinician on the other side of the exam table, you'll walk away knowing exactly what to do differently at your next appointment.

Life is full of transitions from starting a career to retirement, and everything in between and each one has a financial dimension. In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, host Bruce Sellery explores how to navigate life's biggest changes with money in mind. Owen Winkelmolen, founder and CEO of the Adviice retirement-planning platform, explains how affordable, AI-powered tools are making detailed financial and decumulation planning accessible to everyone. Career strategist Janel Abrahami shares a practical framework for knowing when it's time for a career pivot, the six moves anyone can make, and how to use an "energy resume" and a personal board of advisors to find your next step. End-of-life doula Michelle Leray demystifies the role of a death doula and its surprising connection to estate planning, while University of Toronto professor Michelle Pannor-Silver, author of Aging with Agility, reveals why your body is a resource worth investing in and how physical health and financial health go hand in hand. A thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about preparing for change at every stage of life. To find out more about the guests check out: Owen Winkelmolen: adviice.ca Janel Abrahami:  janelabrahami.com | Instagram | TikTok | LinkedIn Spirited Guided Path: Facebook | Instagram Death Doulas of Manitoba: Facebook | Instagram Michelle Pannor-Silver: michellepannorsilver.com Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | X | Facebook | LinkedIn

Guest: Darnell Walker Death Doula   CEU objectives for this episode: Identify and describe at least three core functions of a death doula List two communication strategies that support families experiencing neonatal loss or end-of-life transitions Describe two practical interventions to support families' grief journeys This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handtohold.org/resources/podcasts/nicu-heroes/ to complete the questionnaire. It is the sole responsibility of the individual to verify if this credit is valid and eligible for use in your State and/or for your discipline for licensure or certification renewal.  

John Gerardi is joined by Jonathan Keller of California Family Council to unpack the disturbing expansion of Canada's euthanasia program, from proposals to euthanize infants with disabilities to recommendations that minors consent to their own deaths without parental input. This week's mystery clip reveals just how far the MAID program has gone, with roughly half of 2024 recipients citing feeling like a burden rather than terminal illness. The guys then break down how activists quietly corrupt language, sliding from physician assisted suicide to medical assistance in dying to simply assisted death, and why that shift matters. Finally, they take on a New England Journal of Medicine article arguing to contextualize the dead donor rule, a euphemism for harvesting organs from euthanasia patients before death, and explain why the slippery slope keeps proving pro-lifers right.

6/13/26, Megan Zinn -- Co-Host Nancy Gertner, U.S. Dst Ct Judge (ret) & Harvard Law Professor: what the recent Supreme Court's recent decisions mean for democracy, the future, & all of us. Daniel Mason, the superlative, award-winning novelist on a nationwide book tour -- tonight at the Odyssey Books in South Hadley-- on “Country People.” It's Mayors Monday w/ Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia: the ban/moratorium on data centers in his city & the $2million/yr in tax revenues one (!) could bring; then, summer in the City. “And Death Shall Have No Dominion”— the community's response this weekend. Kemper Carlsen, Clinical Director, Fisher Home Hospice in Amherst: hospice & end-of- life care—what it is; also, their 20th anniversary & a $100,000 endowment campaign.

What happens when the rules everyone follows weren't actually rules to begin with? In this episode, Scott Middleton — Owner of Your Health and Chief Disruption Officer — shares what he's seeing on the ground as the TCPA and Providence Care merger moves toward its final close. But the real conversation goes deeper: the quiet, dangerous habit of staff making up policies, enforcing phantom restrictions, and defaulting to "no" when the answer should have been "let's figure it out." Key topics covered: Why fabricated rules (like requiring a psych NP referral for talk therapy) become embedded in organizations — and how to stop it How Scott is approaching the merger with radical transparency, and why "don't tell until it's done" has no place in his culture The one thing that will get you fired fast: "don't tell Scott" What TCPA's nursing home model is teaching Your Health about patient frequency, hospitalizations, and what actually works Why the chaplain conversation changed Scott's entire philosophy — and how advanced care planning pays for it The system doesn't need more rules. It needs more people willing to ask. Listen now and ask yourself: what rule in your organization did somebody just make up? www.YourHealth.Org

In Oregon’s rural, coastal communities, volunteers are coming together to reimagine what end of life care can look like for aging residents outside of medical settings.   Three years ago, Margo Lalich co-founded the North Coast End of Life Collective. She’s a nurse and public health professional who says the COVID-19 pandemic was a “wake-up call” that helped her identify a lack of intentional, communal grieving and gaps in infrastructure surrounding end-of-life care in rural areas. She began hosting educational workshops via Zoom for people who wanted to learn more and be involved in facilitating end-of-life conversations and initiatives for their communities’ aging residents. One of the attendees was Kevin Shluka, a sculptor and landscaper located in Tillamook County who’s been volunteering in community hospice since 2024.   We’ll hear more from Lalich and Shluka about the role the End of Life Collective has filled in these coastal communities, and more on what it looks like to facilitate this unique model of care.  

In the United States, nearly 70% of people say they want to die at home, yet the majority still die in medical settings, often after receiving care that may not match their goals and values. Closing that gap between preference and reality is at the heart of the work being done by End Well, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming how we think about, plan for, and experience the end of life. "The gap isn't about people wanting the wrong things. It's that our culture and our incentives aren't aligned with helping those wishes actually happen at the end of life,” says Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider, End Well's founder and president.  As Dr. Ungerleider explains to Raise the Line host Michael Carrese, End Well sponsors an annual symposium and year-round activities to bring together clinicians, patients, caregivers, and innovators to improve that alignment. Key steps include earlier integration of palliative care, allowing providers time for listening and goal setting with patients, and normalizing conversations about what matters most to people. This compelling conversation on reframing end of life care also covers how to bring wonder, joy, and hope into end-of-life conversations, and End Well's work to change how death is portrayed in the media. Mentioned in this episode:End Well If you like this podcast, please share it on your social channels. You can also subscribe to the series and check out all of our episodes at www.osmosis.org/podcast

Grief and healing often begin in the quiet moments we are never fully prepared for. In this conversation about end-of-life care, caregiving, anticipatory grief, and healing through storytelling, we explore how love carries us through the final hours with someone we cherish.In this episode of Groove with Portia, I sit down with filmmakers Dana White and Christopher Knoblock, directors of the short film Turning Blue. Based on a true story, the film follows a mother and daughter during the mother's final hours before death, capturing the tenderness, fear, humor, denial, and love that often live inside the caregiving journey.Together, we discuss Dana's relationship with her mother Carol, the promise she made to care for her until the end, and how the film honors the emotional complexity of watching a loved one transition. We also explore the role of sound, shadow, humor, hospice support, and storytelling in helping audiences better understand grief and end-of-life care.In this episode, we discuss:• The true story behind Turning Blue• Honoring Carol's life, humor, and legacy• Caregiving during terminal illness• Anticipatory grief and end-of-life decisions• The emotional reality of hospice and comfort care• The symbolism of sound, breath, shadows, and light• How film can create space for grief conversations• Why caregivers need community and supportWhether you have cared for a parent, sat beside someone at the end of life, or are learning how to hold space for grief, this conversation is a reminder that love does not end when life does.Connect with Dana White and Christopher Knoblock: https://www.chrisdanafilms.com/

Can we impact the flow of Reiki?  And what is involved in Reiki for end-of-life care?In this episode of Reiki from the Farm, I sit down with Reiki practitioner, teacher, and Michelle to explore marma points—the ancient energetic gateways from the Ayurvedic tradition that may help direct and enhance the flow of Reiki.We discuss how working with marma points can support grounding, intuition, emotional healing, and a deeper connection to the energy.We also explore Michelle's work as an end-of-life caregiver–things like presence, compassion, touch, and the sacred role Reiki can play at the end of life. And what can the dying teach us about living, healing, and what truly matters?______Pam Allen-LeBlanc is a scientist, businesswoman, and Licensed Reiki Master Teacher (LRMT) with the International Center for Reiki Training.Get in Touch with Pam:pam@reikifromthefarm.comwww.reikifromthefarm.com______Michele Denis has been teaching and studying Reiki since 1996. In 2008 she opened the Westcoast Reiki Centre in Vancouver BC  out of a desire to provide ongoing support and continuing education for Reiki practitioners. She has been a regular presenter at Omega Institute's Wisdom of Reiki Conference since its inception. Prior to that, starting in 2002, she was a Summer staff teacher and part of the Core Mediation faculty. In 2010 she returned to a previous love of Vedic studies and trained in Yoga Therapy. She was part of Semperviva's Yoga College teacher training programme where she developed and taught their Yoga Nidra programme. She also created and taught Body/Mind Integration in the Vancouver School of Yoga Therapy.Today she lives on a gulf island with her husband and dog. They spend their time singing, gardening and watching birds.Get in Touch with Michele:medenis@icloud.comA special thanks goes out to Music from Pixabay for the intro music and to Nate Miller for the meditation music. Register for our newsletter! InstagramFacebookYoutube pam@reikifromthefarm.com

What if the patient you discharged three years ago is still costing you money today? In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Scott Middleton pulls back the curtain on the mechanics of value-based care most providers never see — and the merger bringing it all into focus. With the July 15th closing date approaching, Scott walks through what the merger of Your Health with TCPA and Providence Care actually means on the ground: new contracts, new provider numbers, a reimbursement model built on RAF scores and revenue rather than guesswork, and a technology stack — from the Clini app to QR-coded patient wristbands — designed to capture what was previously left on the table. In this episode: Why patient attribution under value-based contracts follows you for years — and what hospice discharges are really costing the organization How the new bonus structure ties pay to billing, RAF scores, and quality measures (and why you can never be paid to put someone on hospice) The difference between care management, facilitated visits, and what providers have been under-billing all along How skilled nursing facilities became the highest-leverage opportunity in the entire model Why advanced care plans aren't just clinical — they're a 30% income increase hiding in plain sight If you've ever wondered why the "why" behind a process matters more than the process itself, this episode is the answer. Press play. www.YourHealth.Org

Editor's Summary by Linda Brubaker, MD and Christopher C. Muth, MD, Deputy Editors of JAMA, the Journal of the American Medical Association, for articles published from June 20-26, 2026.

How can we approach the end of life with intention, dignity, and peace? In this episode, Darnell Lamont Walker, Death Doula, Emmy-nominated writer, and cultural anthropologist, shares insights from his new book Never Can Say Goodbye: The Life of a Death Doula and the Art of a Peaceful End. Darnell's work blends creativity, care, and cultural understanding, supporting individuals and families through life's final transitions while emphasizing compassion, clarity, and grace. He also explores how storytelling helps process grief, honor memory, and embrace the profound emotional and spiritual dimensions of dying. In this conversation, we explore: ·       What it truly means to be a death doula and the role they play. ·       How to approach end-of-life planning intentionally and peacefully. ·       Supporting loved ones through grief, transition, and emotional processing. ·       The spiritual and psychological aspects of dying and acceptance. If you're looking to reframe your understanding of death, navigate grief, or explore the compassionate work of a death doula, this episode offers a thoughtful, empathetic perspective. Follow Darnell Lamont Walker and his work by visiting his website.  Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr  Keep up with Darnell socials here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writeous/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hello.darnell/  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hellodarnell

What if the fastest way to grow your healthcare organization is to slow down? In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Scott Middleton returns from Scotland straight into the thick of a merger — and what he's learning is reshaping how he thinks about change itself. Scott takes us inside the integration of TCPA and Providence Care into Your Health, where two very different models are colliding. One organization built 640 billing codes last year; the other built 40. One puts a single nurse practitioner in a building with no support; the other surrounds providers with nurses and community health workers. The opportunity is enormous — but so is the risk of moving too fast and scaring everyone away. What if the fastest way to grow your healthcare organization is to slow down? In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Scott Middleton returns from Scotland straight into the thick of a merger — and what he's learning is reshaping how he thinks about change itself. Scott takes us inside the integration of TCPA and Providence Care into Your Health, where two very different models are colliding. One organization built 640 billing codes last year; the other built 40. One puts a single nurse practitioner in a building with no support; the other surrounds providers with nurses and community health workers. The opportunity is enormous — but so is the risk of moving too fast and scaring everyone away. In this conversation, Jamie and Scott explore: Why a nurse practitioner alone is a "single source of failure" — and how staffing changes everything How to enter a building without threatening the provider they already love Why billing isn't bureaucracy — it's how Medicare knows you made a difference The art of giving people what they think they need now, and the rest over time Advanced care planning, DNRs, and why the right message sometimes needs a different voice This is a masterclass in change management disguised as a healthcare conversation. Listen now — and rethink what "disruption" really requires. Why a nurse practitioner alone is a "single source of failure" — and how staffing changes everything How to enter a building without threatening the provider they already love Why billing isn't bureaucracy — it's how Medicare knows you made a difference The art of giving people what they think they need now, and the rest over time Advanced care planning, DNRs, and why the right message sometimes needs a different voice This is a masterclass in change management disguised as a healthcare conversation. Listen now — and rethink what "disruption" really requires. www.YourHealth.Org

Families often wait too long to start hospice care, missing months of support. Learn how hospice teams and in-home caregivers work together to provide families with comfort, daily care, and peace of mind during end-of-life at https://encorecaregivers.com/home-health-care-services/ Encore Caregivers City: Houston Address: 7925 Katy Fwy Suite N Website: https://encorecaregivers.com/

What if educating your people so well that they could leave was exactly the point? At Your Health, that's not a risk to manage — it's the philosophy that built an entire learning ecosystem. In this episode, Jamie talks with Aubrey Wall, who came to Your Health from a background in education and now leads Your Health University, the organization's learning management system and continuous-development engine. Aubrey brings an educator's eye to a fast-evolving healthcare environment, where best practice changes by the day and meeting patients where they are demands that staff never stop learning. Here's what you'll hear: Why a healthcare company runs 12-month, Department of Labor–registered apprenticeships — including programs in management, value-based care, population health, and hospice aide preparation How gamification is being built into nurse instruction (straight from Aubrey's dissertation research) The difference between Your Health University (your classroom) and the Hub (your resource library) How LinkedIn Learning delivered roughly $4.2 million in CEUs to staff last year Meeting Leah — the new AI assistant that helps employees find exactly the right course If you've ever believed growing your people is a cost rather than the whole point, this conversation will change how you think. Press play, then go ask Leah a question. www.YourHealth.Org

Send us Fan MailWe spend enormous amounts of time trying to extend life - but almost no time learning how to deal with the fact that it ends. And that gap is creating enormous suffering for families.Dr. Marianne Matzo, Ph.D., FAAN is a nationally recognized gerontologist, hospice nurse, educator, researcher, and advocate whose career has been devoted to one of the most universal - and often avoided - human experiences: dying.Dr. Matzo is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, one of the profession's highest honors, and served as Professor and the Frances E. and A. Earl Ziegler Chair in Palliative Care Nursing at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Over a distinguished academic career, she helped shape the field of palliative care education, co-authoring the first palliative care nursing textbook published in the United States, now in its fifth edition.Dr. Matzo's research has explored everything from end-of-life communication and assisted dying to sexual health among people living with serious illness, helping to advance both clinical practice and public understanding.Following her retirement from full-time academia, Dr. Matzo launched the nonprofit organization Everyone Dies ( https://every1dies.org/ ), dedicated to public education about serious illness, dying, death, and bereavement. Through podcasts, educational resources, and children's literature, she is working to transform how Americans think about mortality and helping families navigate some of life's most difficult conversations with greater confidence, compassion, and clarity.Today we'll explore Dr. Matzo's remarkable career, the evolution of hospice and palliative care, why our culture struggles to discuss death, and what it would mean to build a society that approaches the end of life with wisdom rather than fear.#DeathEducation #PalliativeCare #HospiceCare #EndOfLifeCare #GriefSupport #Healthcare #MedicalEthics #Aging #Gerontology #AdvanceCarePlanning #HospiceNurse #PublicHealth #Longevity #DeathPositive #SeriousIllness #Caregiving #Wellness #Medicine #Bioethics #EveryoneDiesSupport the show

Medically assisted dying is now permitted in almost all Australian states under strict legal requirements. But what options do people actually have at the end of life — and what support is available for those affected and their families? SBS correspondent Barbara Barkhausen talks about this with Astrid Wehling, who, as an end-of-life doula, accompanies people in their last phase of life. - Medizinisch assistiertes Sterben ist inzwischen in fast allen australischen Bundesstaaten unter strengen gesetzlichen Voraussetzungen erlaubt. Doch welche Möglichkeiten haben Menschen am Lebensende tatsächlich – und welche Unterstützung gibt es für Betroffene und ihre Angehörigen? Darüber spricht SBS-Korrespondentin Barbara Barkhausen mit Astrid Wehling, die als End-of-Life Doula Menschen in ihrer letzten Lebensphase begleitet.

This is the fifth and final lesson in la historia de Ingrid. Follow a Guatemalan family through the last days of a leukemia battle in this Medical Spanish end-of-life patient interview. Luis González describes alarming lab results, a doctor's shocking words about Ingrid's white blood cell count, and the urgent return to the hospital on a […] The post Medical Spanish for End-of-Life Care: A Story from Guatemala appeared first on Doc Molly.

What can those who work closest to death teach us about life, compassion, and the possibility of what comes after? In this deeply moving and insightful episode, Lynn Monet explores Death, Dying, the Afterlife as a Nurse and Death Doula, sharing perspectives shaped by years of caring for individuals during life's final transition. Drawing from her experiences as both a nurse and a death doula, Lynn discusses the emotional, spiritual, and human aspects of end-of-life care. She reflects on the importance of dignity, presence, and compassion in supporting individuals and families during deeply personal moments. She also shares how experiences surrounding death can influence perspectives on consciousness, connection, and the possibility of an afterlife. This episode invites listeners to approach the subject of death with openness and reflection rather than fear. What role does a death doula play in helping individuals and families navigate the end-of-life journey? How do caregivers cope with witnessing loss on a regular basis? And what can these experiences teach us about living more fully and compassionately? Join us for a heartfelt and meaningful conversation that explores one of life's most profound realities—where care, understanding, and human connection help illuminate the path through life, death, and beyond.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media

Join family therapists Ken Dolan-Del Vecchio and Nancy Saxton-Lopez for a conversation with Dr. Kevin Toman, DVM, on end of life care and related matters.Dr. Kevin Toman, DVM, is a veteran small-animal veterinarian, founder of Helping Pets Live Longer (HPLL), and one of veterinary medicine's most vocal advocates for longevity-first care. After four decades in clinical practice, he recognized a stark reality: the veterinary world is 20 years behind human longevity science — and pet owners are starting to notice.HPLL bridges that gap. Drawing from validated research in longevity medicine, oncology, metabolic health, and functional diagnostics, Dr. Toman offers pet owners something rare: a clinician who blends medical rigor with genuine compassion for the human-animal bond. His protocols span evidence-based supplements, advanced diagnostics, and prescription longevity therapies(rapamycin, acarbose, metformin) — applied carefully and individually to dogs and cats.Learn more and connect with Dr. Kevin at www.freevetcall.comReach Ken at kenddv@gmail.com, Nancy at nancysaxtonlopez@gmail.com.The Pet Loss Companion (book) on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Pet-Loss-Companion-Healing-Therapists/dp/1484918266/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=pet+loss+companion&qid=1612535894&sr=8-3mpa...The Pet Loss Companion (Audiobook) on Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Pet-Loss-Companion-Audiobook/B0FTPWPX8S?qid=1762457765&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=Y83TQXYM4VG4HKFZEX8X&plink=2mxV7mztbrGx4xEO&pageLoadId=v9F4M87SEHMsdyyw&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1To read our email correspondence with listeners and view photos of their beloved animal companions subscribe at https://petlosscompanionconversations.substack.com(A $5/month subscription fee applies.)To support our work on this podcast with a one-time gift: Venmo @Ken-Dolan-DelVecchio or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/kenddv?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US)To support this podcast with a monthly subscription: https://anchor.fm/kenneth-dolan-del-vecchio/supportWe are happy to announce our affiliation with Bereave, a company that offers beautifully crafted granite pet memorial plaques. When you purchase one of their plaques using the link that follows you are also supporting our podcast. https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=2399618&u=3798931&m=141340&urllink=&afftrack=⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠To subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.youtube.com/@thepetlosscompanion6602 (and hit the "subscribe" button)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠To RSVP for the next cost-free zoom pet loss support group facilitated by Ken⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: https://www.dakinhumane.org/petlossThis program is a friend of Dakin Humane Society in Springfield, Mass. Dakin is a 501 (c) (3) community-supported animal welfare organization that provides shelter, medical care, spay/neuter services, and behavioral rehabilitation for more than 20,000 animals and people each year. Since its inception in 1969, Dakin has become one of the most recognized nonprofit organizations in central Massachusetts and a national leader in animal welfare. You can learn more about Dakin and make a donation at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠dakinhumane.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.For a list of financial resources to help with payment for veterinary care visit the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠community tab on our YouTube channel.Additional resources/friends of the program:Kate LaSala, Multi-Credentialed Canine Behavior consultant and Companion Animal Death Doula, https://rescuedbytraining.comAngela Shook, End-of-Life Support, Companion Animal Doula Support, Pet Loss Grief Support, https://angelashook.com/Crystal Soucy, Pet Loss Grief Coach and Certified Grief Educator, https://www.getcrystalclear.com

How This Is Building Me, hosted by world-renowned oncologist D. Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, is a podcast focused on the highs and lows, ups and downs of all those involved with cancer, cancer medicine, and cancer science across the full spectrum of life's experiences.In this episode, Dr Camidge sat down with Charles D. Blanke, MD, FACP, FASCO, a professor of medicine in the School of Medicine at the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Knight Cancer Institute in Portland.Drs Camidge and Blanke discuss Dr Blanke's unique career path from pioneering targeted cancer therapies to becoming a leading advocate for medical aid in dying. A Type 1 diabetes diagnosis directed Dr Blanke toward an interest in internal medicine and oncology. During his fellowship and early faculty days, he established a reputation for his hard work pursuing research opportunities, even when initial projects were unsuccessful.Blanke's most transformative scientific achievement occurred at OHSU, where he spearheaded the use of Imatinib (Gleevec) for the management of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). By targeting the KIT mutation, this research turned a previously untreatable malignancy into one with a high response rate, marking a landmark moment for personalized oncology.Equally significant in Dr Blanke's career is his role in medical aid in dying. Practicing in Oregon, the first state to legalize the option, he has written hundreds of prescriptions for patients with terminal diseases. Blanke views medical aid in dying as a vital extension of patient care.As the former chair of SWOG, Dr Blanke modernized clinical research by introducing term limits, increasing access to clinical trials among, and championing the development of pragmatic trials with broader patient eligibility criteria. Throughout his tenure, he emphasized the importance of patient advocacy and the altruistic nature of cooperative research. Having recently stepped down from his leadership at SWOG, he intends to focus his future efforts on patient rights and medical aid in dying advocacy.

Send us Fan MailThis is the first of a two-part episode. Check out part 2: 189 What a Death Doula Knows About Grief That Most of Us Don't (2/2) | Sierra CampbellWhat does someone who has spent more than three decades sitting with the dying actually know about grief, and what can that teach the rest of us about living?Today's guest is an elder caregiver, end-of-life doula, and founder of a leading end-of-life education platform. She began working in care at sixteen, opened her own home care services by twenty-one, and has since supported hundreds of people through the final chapter of their lives. As a two-time cancer survivor, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to one of the most avoided conversations of our time.Chapters00:00 Welcome03:10 Sierra's life story07:10 What facing death taught me08:49 The effect of unresolved generational trauma10:09 Presence in being with the dying15:52 When the support we get is not the support we need24:11 Grief of not being able to be a mother28:18 What do people grieve most at the end of their life31:05 Families who are not prepared for a loved one's death34:17 Anticipatory grief34:48 Being prepared for someone dying40:51 Being present when people dieWhether you are grieving a loss, supporting someone who is, or simply carrying an unspoken awareness that you are not prepared for what lies ahead, this conversation offers grounding, clarity, and practical perspective.About our guestAn experienced elder caregiver and end-of-life doula, Sierra Campbell is the founder of Choose Nurture. With more than three decades of experience in the field, Sierra is a leading voice in end-of-life reform. She combines her professional background with her personal journey as a cancer survivor to educate and support ageing adults and their loved ones.choosenurture.com IG: choosenurtureTED talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sLENQbRSlsResources mentionedBook - Stephen Levine: One Year to LiveIf this episode was useful to you, please take a moment to leave a five-star review. It helps this podcast reach the people who need it most.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis is the second of a two-part episode. Check out part 1: 188 What a Death Doula Knows About Grief That Most of Us Don't (1/2) | Sierra CampbellWhat does someone who has spent more than three decades sitting with the dying actually know about grief, and what can that teach the rest of us about living?Today's guest is an elder caregiver, end-of-life doula, and founder of a leading end-of-life education platform. She began working in care at sixteen, opened her own home care services by twenty-one, and has since supported hundreds of people through the final chapter of their lives. As a two-time cancer survivor, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to one of the most avoided conversations of our time.In this episode, we coverWhat the dying most commonly grieve about their lives, What unprepared families carry long after a loved one is gone, What accumulates in the body of a caregiver who witnesses death repeatedly, and Why talking about death is, in her words, talking about life.Chapters00:00 Welcome00:49Second part episode02:49 Death is a great teacher03:44 Letting go or continuous bonds?08:44 Your wishes for your death012:51 How not to fix, save or heal017:48 Medical-assisted death05:32 Secondary gains in grief0Teaching Death Doulas - What surprises them the most?Whether you are grieving a loss, supporting someone who is, or simply carrying an unspoken awareness that you are not prepared for what lies ahead, this conversation offers grounding, clarity, and practical perspective.About our guestAn experienced elder caregiver and end-of-life doula, Sierra Campbell is the founder of Choose Nurture. With more than three decades of experience in the field, Sierra is a leading voice in end-of-life reform. She combines her professional background with her personal journey as a cancer survivor to educate and support ageing adults and their loved ones.choosenurture.com IG: choosenurtureTED talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sLENQbRSlsIf this episode was useful to you, please take a moment to leave a five-star review. It helps thSupport the show

Hospice New Zealand is warning there's a growing gap between what's needed and what's being funded in end-of-life care. Hospice New Zealand Chief Executive Wayne Naylor spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Maureen Groden joins host Ron Aaron and co-host Carol Zernail to talk about end of life care for a loved one on this edition of Caregiver SOS.

Do You Want to Die Not Knowing? One Artist's Leap Into Art as Service and HealingHave you ever had someone ask you a question that completely changed the direction of your life? In this episode, I talk with commission artist Shawn B. Standley, whose wife asked him exactly that kind of question — and it launched him into a new chapter as a full-time artist dedicated to healing and community service.Shawn's journey is anything but a straight line — from aerospace engineering student to carpenter, Navy veteran, restaurant manager, and Alaskan wilderness dweller — before finally committing to his true calling: creating deeply personal commission art that captures people's stories, memories, and life transitions.Now based in Conway, Arkansas, Shawn is partnering with wellness organizations, end-of-life doulas, and medical institutions to bring the healing power of art to people navigating major life changes. He also oversees the urban farming and community garden program at the Faulkner County Library — proof that art and service can take many forms.In this episode we cover:(1:42) How Shawn's father discouraged him from pursuing art as a career — and how he found his way back(11:51) Dropping out of aerospace engineering school and the winding road that followed(13:17) Moving to Whidbey Island and finding his first real artistic community and mentor(16:03) Going to art school at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle — and why he left(18:11) How Alaska got under his skin and changed everything(22:07) The question his wife Shell asked that became the turning point of his artistic life(23:54) Discovering the profound emotional power of commission art and creating work that tells someone's personal story(24:40) Why Conway, Arkansas — and what surprised him about building an art practice there(28:45) Finding his why through the Artist Inc. fellowship and the Artists in Business mentorship program(32:15) Partnering with end-of-life doulas, the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences wellness program, and the Arkansas Wellness Network(37:55) His vision for combining art and healing as a full-time practiceConnect with Shawn: Website: shawnbstudios.com Social media: @shawnbstudiosConnect with me: arthealsallwoundspodcast.com | SubstackMusic by Ketsa and Lobo LocoSupport the show

Learn how to better serve the needs of the LGBTQ+ community in grief and at the end of life. My guest Jamie Thrower is a queer death doula, end-of-life educator and community grief tender serving the LGBTQ+ community in life and in death. She is the founder of Queer Grief Club and the co-creator of… Continue reading Ep. 544 The Queer Grief Club and Inclusive End-of-Life Care with Jamie Thrower

"What if you train them and they leave?" It's the fear that quietly keeps most healthcare leaders from investing in their people. Matt Staub — CEO of Your Health — wants you to sit with the question his mentor once asked in return: What if you don't train them, and they stay? In this episode, Matt joins Jamie Preston for a conversation about why workforce education isn't a perk at Your Health — it's the culture. From nationally accredited apprenticeships, to a training pipeline built out of a licensing crisis, to the real people behind the success stories, this is a blueprint for leaders who want to grow something that lasts. Key topics covered: The lumberjack story: why sharpening your axe beats swinging harder every time How a shortage of licensed administrators became the catalyst for Your Health's training engine The shift from "education happens on your own time" to "this is how we behave" Real success stories — Olivia, Kristin, Taylor, McKinsey, Rebecca — and what they share Matt's three challenges for anyone ready to grow: show up, find your who, take your shot If you've ever wondered whether developing your people is worth the cost, this episode will change the math. Press play — then look around, and ask yourself who's looking at you.

Most providers interrupt their patients within 18 seconds. What if the next few minutes of silence could tell you more than the next hour of testing? In Part 2 of the Your Health Values Series, Jamie  sits down again with members of the Your Health Experience Team — Rebecca, Jennifer, Whitney,  and Carlos — to go beneath the surface of "patient-centered care" and look at what empathy really demands in the pressured, everyday moments of healthcare. This isn't a conversation about being nice. It's a conversation about seeing people — patients, families, and colleagues — for everything they're carrying, even when they're hiding it behind a smile. In this episode: Why empathy is officially non-negotiable at Your Health — and what that looks like in practice The difference between emotional empathy and "empathetic sternness" (and why both save lives) How to recognize when a patient or colleague is carrying something deeper than their symptoms The real threat of empathy fatigue — and how to keep giving without burning out The two "holy times" in healthcare where empathy matters most What patients actually say when they feel truly seen If you've ever wondered whether the extra 60 seconds is worth it, this episode will show you why it's everything. Press play — and then try it on your very next interaction. www.YourHealth.Org

Have you ever heard of a "death doula?" Nicole Kidman as brought the term into the end-of-life conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the healthcare system your loved one relies on doesn't even know they need help until it's too late — and what would it look like if it did? In this Q1 2026 episode, Jamie Preston sits down with Matt Staub, CEO of Your Health, for a candid and wide-ranging look at how one of the country's largest home-based care providers is navigating the evolving landscape of value-based care, population health, and the human experience at the center of it all. Matt brings his characteristic clarity and heart to a conversation that is equal parts strategy, story, and honest reckoning with what the system still gets wrong. Key topics covered: Why 11% of patients account for 67% of all healthcare spending — and why most of them don't know they're in an ACO The evolution of value-based care: from quality-over-cost to outcomes + patient experience over total costs How Your Health is becoming proactive — not reactive — about falls, readmissions, and high-needs patients The quiet crisis of patient trust: down from 71% in 2020 to just 33% today, and what the correlation means for hospitalizations Real stories: a 79-year-old patient who went from barely existing to living fully — and Matt's own mom, who hasn't fallen since leaving the hospital after her stroke If you work in healthcare, advocate for someone in the system, or simply believe that better is possible — this episode will change the way you see what care can be.

Send us Fan MailIn Part Two of Private Equity, AI, and the Future of End-of-Life Care, Chris Comeaux and Cordt Kassner dive deeper into the forces reshaping hospice and healthcare.  From the growing influence of private equity to the urgent need for systemic reform, this conversation explores the tension between financial performance and mission-driven care.  The discussion highlights a critical question: can healthcare balance economic sustainability while preserving dignity, compassion, and patient-centered outcomes?  The episode also examines real-world policy shifts and emerging data—from Medicare payment reform signals to increased regulatory scrutiny aimed at eliminating fraud and protecting vulnerable populations.  Beyond policy, the conversation underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making in shaping the future of hospice care.Ultimately, this episode returns to the heart of hospice: humanity.  Through powerful stories and examples—like pediatric care innovations and “bucket list” programs—it challenges leaders to reclaim the authentic mission of end-of-life care: honoring lives, supporting families, and delivering excellence at the bedside.If this conversation challenged your thinking, share it with your leadership team and colleagues. Subscribe to stay ahead of the trends shaping hospice and healthcare—and most importantly, take one idea from this episode and apply it to improve care at the bedside. The future of end-of-life care depends on leaders willing to act.Key TakeawaysThe U.S. healthcare system faces a looming financial and structural crisis, requiring urgent reform focused on transparency, accountability, and population health.  The role of private equity in hospice remains contested, with concerns about profit-driven models versus emerging data suggesting outcomes may depend on broader operational factors—not ownership alone.  Regulatory efforts, such as Oregon's Protecting the Dying Act, signal a growing national push to eliminate fraud and safeguard hospice integrity.  Data-driven decision-making is becoming essential, with industry reports and analytics shaping how leaders evaluate quality, utilization, and performance.  Mission-driven innovations—like pediatric programs and life-affirming “bucket list” initiatives—demonstrate how hospice can elevate care quality while reinforcing its core identity.  (This episode is a Top News Stories of Month March 2026)Co-Host:  Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today & CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsHost:  Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOS, author of The Anatomy of LeadershipThe Anatomy of Leadership podcast explores the art and science of leadership through candid, insightful conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from a variety of industries. Hosted by Chris Comeaux, each episode dives into the mindsets, habits, and strategies that empower leaders to thrive in complex, fast-changing environments. With topics ranging from organizational culture and emotional intelligence to navigating disruption and inspiring teams, the show blends real-world stories with practical takeaways. The goal is simple yet ambitious: to equip leaders at every level with the tools, perspectives, and inspiration they need to lead with vision, empathy, and impact.https://www.teleioscn.org/anatomy-of-leadership

In Part Two of Private Equity, AI, and the Future of End-of-Life Care, Chris Comeaux and Cordt Kassner dive deeper into the forces reshaping hospice and healthcare.  From the growing influence of private equity to the urgent need for systemic reform, this conversation explores the tension between financial performance and mission-driven care.  The discussion highlights a critical question: can healthcare balance economic sustainability while preserving dignity, compassion, and patient-centered outcomes?  The episode also examines real-world policy shifts and emerging data—from Medicare payment reform signals to increased regulatory scrutiny aimed at eliminating fraud and protecting vulnerable populations.  Beyond policy, the conversation underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making in shaping the future of hospice care.Ultimately, this episode returns to the heart of hospice: humanity.  Through powerful stories and examples—like pediatric care innovations and “bucket list” programs—it challenges leaders to reclaim the authentic mission of end-of-life care: honoring lives, supporting families, and delivering excellence at the bedside.If this conversation challenged your thinking, share it with your leadership team and colleagues. Subscribe to stay ahead of the trends shaping hospice and healthcare—and most importantly, take one idea from this episode and apply it to improve care at the bedside. The future of end-of-life care depends on leaders willing to act.Key TakeawaysThe U.S. healthcare system faces a looming financial and structural crisis, requiring urgent reform focused on transparency, accountability, and population health.  The role of private equity in hospice remains contested, with concerns about profit-driven models versus emerging data suggesting outcomes may depend on broader operational factors—not ownership alone.  Regulatory efforts, such as Oregon's Protecting the Dying Act, signal a growing national push to eliminate fraud and safeguard hospice integrity.  Data-driven decision-making is becoming essential, with industry reports and analytics shaping how leaders evaluate quality, utilization, and performance.  Mission-driven innovations—like pediatric programs and life-affirming “bucket list” initiatives—demonstrate how hospice can elevate care quality while reinforcing its core identity.  (This episode is a Top News Stories of Month March 2026)Co-Host:  Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today & CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsHost:  Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOS, author of The Anatomy of LeadershipTeleios Collaborative Network   /   https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

Send us Fan MailIn this thought-provoking episode, Chris Comeaux and Cordt Kassner unpack some of the most pressing forces shaping the future of end-of-life care—private equity, rising healthcare costs, and the accelerating influence of artificial intelligence. Grounded in real-world stories and industry data, the conversation explores a growing tension between the promise of hospice as a gold-standard care model and the operational, financial, and expectation gaps that providers and families are increasingly experiencing. The discussion dives into systemic challenges, including stagnant reimbursement structures, workforce limitations, and a fragmented healthcare ecosystem that often leaves hospice providers navigating complexity without a clear seat at the broader policy table. As private equity and consolidation trends continue to reshape the landscape, the hosts raise critical questions about whether scale enhances or erodes the deeply human, high-touch nature of hospice care.Looking ahead, the episode broadens into a philosophical and strategic lens—examining how AI may redefine not only care delivery, but the very meaning of being human in healthcare. For leaders across hospice, nonprofit, and healthcare sectors, this conversation offers both a warning and a call to action: innovate thoughtfully, protect what works, and ensure the future of end-of-life care remains anchored in purpose, dignity, and humanity.  Key TakeawaysHospice remains a highly effective and compassionate care model—but growing expectation gaps between families and providers are creating friction.Reimbursement and funding structures have not kept pace with inflation, limiting the ability to deliver comprehensive support.The healthcare system's pricing inconsistencies and payer mix distortions are creating downstream pressure on hospice providers.Despite consolidation trends, hospice remains a highly fragmented industry, raising important questions about private equity's role and impact.AI is poised to transform care delivery—but also introduces ethical questions about consciousness, purpose, and the human role in care.(This episode is a Top News Stories of Month March 2026)Co-Host:  Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today & CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsHost:  Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOS, author of The Anatomy of LeadershipThe Anatomy of Leadership podcast explores the art and science of leadership through candid, insightful conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from a variety of industries. Hosted by Chris Comeaux, each episode dives into the mindsets, habits, and strategies that empower leaders to thrive in complex, fast-changing environments. With topics ranging from organizational culture and emotional intelligence to navigating disruption and inspiring teams, the show blends real-world stories with practical takeaways. The goal is simple yet ambitious: to equip leaders at every level with the tools, perspectives, and inspiration they need to lead with vision, empathy, and impact.https://www.teleioscn.org/anatomy-of-leadership

In this thought-provoking episode, Chris Comeaux and Cordt Kassner unpack some of the most pressing forces shaping the future of end-of-life care—private equity, rising healthcare costs, and the accelerating influence of artificial intelligence. Grounded in real-world stories and industry data, the conversation explores a growing tension between the promise of hospice as a gold-standard care model and the operational, financial, and expectation gaps that providers and families are increasingly experiencing. The discussion dives into systemic challenges, including stagnant reimbursement structures, workforce limitations, and a fragmented healthcare ecosystem that often leaves hospice providers navigating complexity without a clear seat at the broader policy table. As private equity and consolidation trends continue to reshape the landscape, the hosts raise critical questions about whether scale enhances or erodes the deeply human, high-touch nature of hospice care.Looking ahead, the episode broadens into a philosophical and strategic lens—examining how AI may redefine not only care delivery, but the very meaning of being human in healthcare. For leaders across hospice, nonprofit, and healthcare sectors, this conversation offers both a warning and a call to action: innovate thoughtfully, protect what works, and ensure the future of end-of-life care remains anchored in purpose, dignity, and humanity.  Key TakeawaysHospice remains a highly effective and compassionate care model—but growing expectation gaps between families and providers are creating friction.Reimbursement and funding structures have not kept pace with inflation, limiting the ability to deliver comprehensive support.The healthcare system's pricing inconsistencies and payer mix distortions are creating downstream pressure on hospice providers.Despite consolidation trends, hospice remains a highly fragmented industry, raising important questions about private equity's role and impact.AI is poised to transform care delivery—but also introduces ethical questions about consciousness, purpose, and the human role in care.(This episode is a Top News Stories of Month March 2026)Co-Host:  Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today & CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsHost:  Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOS, author of The Anatomy of LeadershipTeleios Collaborative Network   /   https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

If you have a senior cat - or have ever loved a cat through their final chapter - this episode is for you.We're joined by Dr. Lindsey Wendt to talk about what caring for an aging cat really looks like - from proactive support and quality of life, to navigating that moment when you realize time may be shorter than you want it to be.This isn't just about “end of life.” It's about how to stay present, how to keep showing up for them, and how to support them with love, comfort, and intention every step of the way.If you've ever felt unsure, overwhelmed, or just want to do right by your cat in their later years, we hope this conversation helps brings you peace and clarity.

In this conversation, Dorothy Wilhelm speaks with Zane Sundberg, a director of nursing at a skilled nursing facility, about the misconceptions surrounding assisted living and nursing homes. They discuss the evolution of care in these facilities, emphasizing the importance of personalized activities and a home-like environment. Zane shares insights on how to choose the right care facility and the significance of breaking down stigmas associated with nursing homes. The conversation highlights the positive changes in elder care and the importance of maintaining independence for residents. Takeaways The stigma surrounding nursing homes is prevalent but changing. Personalized care and activities are essential for resident satisfaction. Facilities are moving towards a more home-like environment. It's important to tour facilities before making a decision. Breaking down barriers can lead to better care outcomes. Residents often find joy and comfort in their new environments. Not all nursing homes provide the same level of care. Resources like carecompare.com can help families make informed decisions. Maintaining independence is a key focus in modern nursing homes. Support from family and friends is crucial for acceptance of care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Assisted Living and Care Misconceptions 03:01 The Evolution of Nursing Home Care 05:54 Personalized Activities and Home-Like Environments 09:11 Resources for Choosing Care Facilities 12:13 Breaking Down Stigmas in Nursing Homes 15:01 Finding the Right Fit for Care 17:57 Final Thoughts on Care and Independence More Information Zane Sundberg can be reached via email at Zane.Sundberg@panorama.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us Fan MailDr. Elizabeth Crouch, neonatologist, neuroscientist, and physician scientist at UCSF and co-host of At the Bench on The Incubator Podcast, joins Ben and Daphna live at Cool Topics to discuss palliative and comfort care in the NICU. Drawing from her research on organ donation, autopsy, and research donation after neonatal loss, Dr. Crouch shares how meaning making supports families through grief, offers practical tips for approaching these conversations with compassion and good timing, and reflects on the role of chaplains, ethics consultants, and care pathways in supporting a death with dignity.Support the showAs always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below.Enjoy!

Jenny Briscoe-Hough on the uncomfortable truths which saw her set up Australia's first ever not-for-profit funeral home (R).After her mother died, Jenny Briscoe-Hough had an epiphany about the business of funerals.Although her family brought in their own flowers and had a simple service, the bill came to $11,000. A short time later, Jenny began thinking about setting up a not-for-profit funeral service in her local area.With the help of a documentary and a crowdfunding campaign, she and the community of Port Kembla raised more than $120,000 to buy an old fire station in town.This is now where Tender Funerals operates, helping families prepare their dead for burial or cremation.On the day of the funeral, family and friends can wash and dress the body themselves, bring flowers from their own gardens, and run the service the way they want it.Learn more about the Natural Death Care Movement.Watch the trailer for Lynette Wallworth's documentary which helped begin the funding campaign.Watch the Australian Story episode about Tender Funerals.This episode of Conversations was produced by Nicola Harrison. The executive producer was Pam O'Brien.It explores death industry, funerals, grief, grieving, how to grieve, Western attitudes towards death, funerals, ritual, charity, crowd funding, power of community, dying, how to die well, mothers, daughters, filmmaking, Lynette Wallworth, after life.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you'll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Suzanne O'Brien is founder and CEO of the Doulagivers Institute and author of the book “The Good Death.” She has trained thousands of people around the world in end-of-life care, with a mission to make death literacy accessible to all. She tells Sarah why she believes that dying is not just a medical event, but a sacred transition — one that can be met with preparation, presence, and even peace. In this conversation, Suzanne also shares what she has learned from decades at the bedside of dying people, how to diminish fear of the natural dying process, and why granny pods matter now more than ever.For more information on Suzanne's work and The Doulagivers Institute, please visit https://doulagivers.com/

In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Lynn Hellerstein of Vision Beyond Sight sits down with David A. Jones, Jr., a leading venture capitalist and a well-respected voice in healthcare business and innovation, for a powerful conversation honoring the legacy of his father, David A. Jones, which includes being editor to his memoir, Always Moving Forward - a book of friends, family and building Humana. David shares the remarkable story of his father's journey from poverty to building one of America's most influential healthcare companies—beginning as the largest nursing home operator in the U.S. and evolving into a major national health insurance provider. Drawing from Always Moving Forward, he reflects on the leadership lessons that shaped his father's life and career, including the philosophy he carried from his time in the U.S. Navy: “The most important responsibility of a leader is to decide.” The conversation goes far beyond business. David explores the deep challenges facing today's end-of-life care system—from fragmented care and the “schlepping” many patients endure between providers, to the urgent need for better coordination, compassionate communication, and more humane approaches. They discuss the promise of community-based palliative care, the role of physical therapy and musculoskeletal health in preventing decline, and why addressing loneliness, addiction, and holistic wellness must be part of the future of healthcare. Above all, they reflect on what most people truly hope for in their final years: dignity, comfort, and the assurance they are not a burden. This episode blends personal storytelling, healthcare insight, and timeless wisdom—including touching family memories and reflections on finding joy in music and life's simple moments. Dr. Lynn Hellerstein, Developmental Optometrist, co-owner of Hellerstein & Brenner Vision Center, P.C., award-winning author and international speaker, holds powerful and inspiring conversations with her guests in the areas of health, wellness, education, sports and psychology. They share their inspirational stories of healing and transformation through their vision expansion. Vision Beyond Sight Podcast will help you see with clarity, gain courage and confidence. Welcome to Vision Beyond Sight! Also available on Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Audible and Stitcher.

Caring for an aging parent: so many of my friends are in this stage right now! If you're also in this season, you understand how emotionally overwhelming it can be to care for an elderly parent. What do we do with the guilt, the grief and the new boundaries we must set as we try to offer support on so many levels, often while also pursuing career and personal goals (and for many of us, still raising kids)? In this episode, I sit down with hospice nurse and author Linda Larson to talk honestly about the emotional tension and the faith-stretching that comes with caring for aging parents. Linda offers not only biblical encouragement but also extremely practical advice for walking through this season well.  WHAT YOU'LL LEARN [00:00] Why Midlife Caregiving Feels So Emotionally Complicated [05:00] What Emotions Are Normal When Caring for Aging Parents? [09:00] Why Role Reversal Creates Grief for Both of You [16:00] What If Your Relationship With Your Parent Wasn't Healthy? [21:00] How Do You Help Without Trying to “Fix” Aging? [26:00] Why You Can't Do Caregiving Alone [32:00] What If You Feel Resentful, Exhausted, or Spiritually Ashamed? [37:00] Where Can You Find Faith-Based and Practical Support? Connect with Linda Larson via email at linda.prepare2care@gmail.com, or check out her book Walk Me Home: A Companion for the Caregiving Journey on Amazon.  JOIN ME IN MARCH/APRIL FOR A 6-WEEK STUDY ON STRESS LESS: If you're exhausted from carrying situations that won't change and feel stuck in stress loops you can't seem to escape, join us for our next 6-week journey inside the Emotional Confidence Club: “Stress Less: A 6-Week Journey to Release Control + Make Peace with What Isn't Changing.” Let's learn how to process the emotions underneath control, release what isn't yours to carry, and experience peace, even when circumstances stay the same. Go to AliciaMichelle.com/club to join the March/April study. RELATED EPISODES: Ep 350 — Why Is It So Hard to Surrender and “Let Them”? Ep 349 — How Can We Stress Less + Find Peace When Nothing Is Changing? Ep 342 — Help for Emotional Overreaction in Relationships Send a text

An unassuming house in Southeast Portland’s Buckman neighborhood was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places. Once known as “Juniper House,” the building served as one of the first end-of-life care homes for AIDS patients in the Pacific Northwest in the late 1980s. An OPB documentary at the time explored the lives of some of the patients in Juniper House and the neighboring Assisi House, which provided a range of care for patients with HIV/AIDS. Jan Weyeneth is one of the co-founders of Juniper House. Cayla McGrail is a former associate project manager for Portland’s LGBTQ+ Historic Sites Project, which sponsored the house’s listing. We first spoke with Weyeneth and McGrail in April 2025 about Juniper House and the importance of documenting queer history in Portland.

In this episode of Nurse Converse, Jana Price welcomes palliative care nurse practitioner Courtnee Stagner, the viral nurse who makes millions laugh online while doing some of the most sacred work in healthcare. Beneath the humor is a clinician guiding families through life's hardest decisions. Courtnee shares her unexpected path from ICU to hospice, unpacks the truth about morphine at the end of life, and tackles the cultural, spiritual, and ethical tensions nurses face around death. With candor and compassion, she reminds us that palliative care isn't about giving up. It's about living well until the very end and advocating fiercely for what matters most.>>Millions Laugh at Her Videos—But Her Real Work Happens at the BedsideJump Ahead to Listen: [00:01:07] Introducing Courtnee and her story[00:01:32] Courtnee's role as a palliative care NP[00:02:13] From critical care ICU to hospice and palliative[00:04:27] Seeing patients as people, not numbers[00:06:03] Patient story: going home to see his dog[00:08:32] How to become a palliative care nurse/NP[00:10:02] Shortage of palliative specialists and services[00:13:49] Talking about morphine at end of life[00:17:34] Helping families cope with grief and “fighting”[00:20:30] Why advanced directives and early talks matter[00:23:59] Honoring cultural and religious needs after death[00:26:51] Using personal faith in end-of-life care[00:31:19] Advice for burnt-out nurses and setting boundariesConnect with Jana on LinkedIn and social media: Instagram: @gentlyusedrnConnect with Courtnee on social media: Instagram: @CourtneeStagnerTikTok: @CourtneeStagner12For more information, full transcript and videos visit Nurse.org/podcastJoin our newsletter at nurse.org/joinInstagram: @nurse_orgTikTok: @nurse.orgFacebook: @nurse.orgYouTube: Nurse.org

Living with the End in Mind: Dr. Pyle emphasizes the importance of preparing for the inevitable. It’s not about being morbid; it’s about ensuring better days today by planning for tomorrow. In this episode of "Next Steps 4 Seniors: Conversatoins on Aging, host Wendy Jones welcomes Dr. Pamela Pyle, internal medicine physician and author of "Anticipating Heaven," to discuss end-of-life care. They explore the importance of preparation, advanced care planning, and meaningful family conversations about aging and death. Dr. Pamela Pyle shares practical tips for navigating the healthcare system, the value of tools like Five Wishes, and the role of nurses as advocates. The episode emphasizes living with the end in mind to ensure peace and clarity for families and loved ones during life’s final stages. Key Points: Navigating the Healthcare System: Learn the right questions to ask and steps to take before a crisis hits. Did you know the hospital your loved one is taken to might not be the one you expect? Preparation is key! The Role of Nurses: Nurses are invaluable advocates. They often have more time to provide insights and can be a great resource, especially during quieter times. Recording Conversations: Don’t hesitate to record medical conversations. It’s your right, and it helps ensure you don’t miss any critical information. Family Conversations: Dr. Pyle shares her unique approach to discussing end-of-life wishes with family. She even turned it into a birthday celebration! These conversations are crucial and can be a gift to your loved ones. Advanced Care Planning: Only 30% of Americans complete an advanced care plan. Tools like Five Wishes make it easier and more heartfelt. It’s a simple, affordable way to ensure your wishes are known and respected. Every week brings two ways to grow: Tuesdays dive into the physical next steps with real-life guidance for seniors and families, and Fridays uplift the heart with spiritual and emotional next steps—encouragement, faith, and hope for the journey ahead. Today’s episode explores the transformative power of forgiveness and its vital role in experiencing an abundant life as we age. To learn more about Next Steps 4 Seniors, contact us at 248-651-5010 or visit us online at www.nextsteps4seniors.com.Learn more : https://omny.fm/shows/next-steps-4-seniors-with-wendy-jonesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Logan Patterson graduated in May 2025 from Washington State University’s College of Medicine and is currently a resident at the Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane. During his four years of medical school, he says that he got almost no formal training in end-of-life care, including how to talk with patients and their families about death and dying.       It turns out that his experience is hardly unique, according to a new study Patterson co-authored and recently published with his former colleagues at Washington State University.   The researchers reviewed the two largest medical journal databases to look for papers published between January 2010 and April 2025 about death and dying instruction  in U.S. medical schools. They found only 43 articles on this topic and wide variability on how death and dying is being taught, from a single seminar on advanced care planning to required rotations in hospice and palliative care settings. The researchers argue that U.S. medical schools lack a consistent and evidence-based curriculum for end-of-life care.    Dr. Patterson joins us for more details, including the social and academic challenges of effectively teaching death and dying to students to help prepare them for some of the toughest conversations they may soon be forced to have with their patients.  

There are industries that occasionally do something rotten. And there are industries like Big Oil, Big Pharma, and Big Tobacco – that persistently do rotten things.Then there is the nursing home industry – where rottenness has become a core business principle. The end-of-life “experience” can be rotten enough on its own, with an assortment of natural indignities bedeviling us, and good nursing homes help gentle this time. In the past couple of decades, though, an entirely unnatural force has come to dominate the delivery of aged care: Profiteering corporate chains and Wall Street speculators.The very fact that this essential and sensitive social function, which ought to be the domain of health professionals and charitable enterprises, is now called an “industry” reflects a total perversion of its purpose. Some 70 percent of nursing homes are now corporate operations run by absentee executives who have no experience in nursing homes and who're guided by the market imperative of maximizing investor profits. They constantly demand “efficiencies” from their facilities, which invariably means reducing the number of nurses, which invariably reduces care, which means more injuries, illness… and deaths. As one nursing expert rightly says, “It's criminal.”But it's not against the law, since the industry's lobbying front – a major donor to congressional campaigns – effectively writes the laws, which allows corporate hustlers to provide only one nurse on duty, no matter how many patients are in the facility. A humane nurse-staffing requirement has been proposed, but the profiteering “industry” furiously opposes it… and Congress is dutifully bowing to industry profits. After all, granny doesn't make campaign donations.To help push for sanity and humanity, contact TheConsumerVoice.org.Jim Hightower's Lowdown is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jimhightower.substack.com/subscribe