POPULARITY
Categories
Guests: Two Community Palliative Care Nurses Olive Finucane and Nora McCarrick from St Francis Hospice in Dublin
What does it actually take to say yes in healthcare when the system is wired to say no? In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Scott takes you straight into the field — from a brand-new administrator in Marietta, Georgia who's already revolutionizing her building eight days in, to a 190-patient facility in Charleston where the real conversation isn't about hospice referrals, it's about whether you have the staff to back it up. Scott gets honest about the moments where healthcare organizations talk a big game but fold when it matters — refusing acute visits to non-panel patients, locking providers into rigid workflows, and hiring bodies instead of talent. He challenges all of it. And he does it with the kind of clarity that only comes from someone who's actually in the buildings, at the dinner tables, and on the phone doing the hard work every day. From a nurse who deserves a Tesla to a wristband that could change emergency response forever, this episode is packed with real stories, bold ideas, and a simple but radical belief: that getting to the yes isn't just good business — it's the whole point of healthcare. If you're a provider, administrator, nurse, or healthcare leader who's tired of the way things have always been done, this one's for you. www.YourHealth.Org
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.
Healthcare didn't get expensive because patients got worse — it got expensive because the system got fragmented. In this episode of The Disruptive Podcast, Scott Middleton breaks down why hospice can't live “over there,” separate from primary care, nursing, therapy, and care management.Scott explains the Your Health Hospice rollout, the staffing reality that determines whether integration is real, and the math behind a new model: caseload reductions for nurses when hospice patients are added, plus incentives that acknowledge the complexity of end-of-life care.This conversation is about building a care system where the patient doesn't have to juggle providers, phone numbers, and handoffs — because they shouldn't have to. One team. One plan. One umbrella. www.YourHealth.Org
When most people think of hospice, they think of end of life care, but that's not the full scope of services they provide. Carolle Hicks from Oaklawn Hospice discusses what other services they provide and how they can help people with a terminal diagnosis take control of the time patients have left. Episode ResourcesOaklawn Hospice13444 Preston DriveMarshall, MI 49068Phone: (269) 789-3939About OaklawnOaklawn was founded in 1925 as a 12-bed hospital in a residential home, funded by a group of visionary philanthropists. Now, almost ten decades later, we've evolved into a highly regarded regional health care organization, licensed for 77 acute care beds and a 17-bed inpatient psychiatric unit. We've continued to be an independently owned not-for-profit hospital, with our main campus residing on the same site as the original hospital, providing facilities, equipment and technology that are usually only found at larger health systems. We enjoy a reputation for advancing medicine and providing compassionate, personal care. Our service area includes Calhoun County and parts of Branch and Eaton counties with a medical staff of more than 300 providers representing over 55 specialties. For information, visit www.oaklawnhospital.org.
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.
Send us a textWhat gets measured shapes how patients experience the final chapter of life. In Part Two of Measures That Matter: How Better Metrics Can Transform End-Of-Life Care, hospice and healthcare leaders explore how focused, meaningful metrics—not check-the-box measures—can improve quality, reduce unnecessary hospitalizations, and strengthen value-based end-of-life care.Hosted by Chris Comeaux, President & CEO of Teleios, and Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today and CEO & Founder of Hospice Analytics, this episode brings together national experts to examine which hospice measures truly differentiate quality.Featured guestsBob Tavares, VP & General Manager, HealthPivotsRobin Heffernan, PhD, Co-Founder & CEO, EmpassionMindy Stewart-Coffee, National Vice President, Palliative Care, Optum Home & CommunityThe conversation highlights a small, high-impact set of indicators that better reflect real-world hospice performance—such as visits in the last days of life, live discharges and burdensome transitions, gaps in nursing visits, access to higher levels of care (GIP and Continuous Home Care), and patient experience, including the simple but powerful question: “Would you recommend this hospice?”A central takeaway is nuance: more is not always better. High-quality hospice care lives within healthy ranges and must be interpreted in clinical, geographic, and population context—not through rigid or one-size-fits-all targets.The episode also highlights the critical role of palliative care upstream from hospice. Earlier, multidisciplinary engagement helps align goals, manage symptoms proactively, and reduce crises and late referrals—ultimately redefining value at the end of life as goal-concordant care delivered at the right time, in the right setting, at a sustainable cost. Hospice and palliative care are not peripheral to value-based healthcare—they are foundational to it.Great end-of-life care isn't accidental—it's designed, supported, and measured well.The 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
What gets measured shapes how patients experience the final chapter of life. In Part Two of Measures That Matter: How Better Metrics Can Transform End-Of-Life Care, hospice and healthcare leaders explore how focused, meaningful metrics—not check-the-box measures—can improve quality, reduce unnecessary hospitalizations, and strengthen value-based end-of-life care.Hosted by Chris Comeaux, President & CEO of Teleios, and Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today and CEO & Founder of Hospice Analytics, this episode brings together national experts to examine which hospice measures truly differentiate quality.Featured guestsBob Tavares, VP & General Manager, HealthPivotsRobin Heffernan, PhD, Co-Founder & CEO, EmpassionMindy Stewart-Coffee, National Vice President, Palliative Care, Optum Home & CommunityThe conversation highlights a small, high-impact set of indicators that better reflect real-world hospice performance—such as visits in the last days of life, live discharges and burdensome transitions, gaps in nursing visits, access to higher levels of care (GIP and Continuous Home Care), and patient experience, including the simple but powerful question: “Would you recommend this hospice?”A central takeaway is nuance: more is not always better. High-quality hospice care lives within healthy ranges and must be interpreted in clinical, geographic, and population context—not through rigid or one-size-fits-all targets.The episode also highlights the critical role of palliative care upstream from hospice. Earlier, multidisciplinary engagement helps align goals, manage symptoms proactively, and reduce crises and late referrals—ultimately redefining value at the end of life as goal-concordant care delivered at the right time, in the right setting, at a sustainable cost. Hospice and palliative care are not peripheral to value-based healthcare—they are foundational to it.Great end-of-life care isn't accidental—it's designed, supported, and measured well.Teleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast
Send us a textTop News Stories of the Month, January 2026At the end of life, quality matters—but too often, the metrics used in hospice and palliative care fail to reflect the care patients and families actually experience. In Episode One of Measures That Matter: How Better Metrics Can Transform End-of-Life Care, TCNtalks / Anatomy of Leadership explores why fewer, clearer quality measures are essential for reducing variability, improving patient outcomes, and supporting value-based care at the end of life.This episode introduces the Measures That Matter initiative through the lens of experience, data, and leadership responsibility. Bob Tavares explains how decades of healthcare analytics revealed a fundamental problem in hospice quality measurement: an abundance of metrics that fail to differentiate performance. Many current measures cluster nearly all providers at the top, making it difficult for patients, payers, and value-based organizations to identify true centers of excellence or address variability that puts patients at risk.From the provider and network perspective, Robin Heffernan and Mindy Stewart-Coffee highlight the real-world consequences of that variability. Across thousands of hospice and palliative care providers nationwide, quality is inconsistent—even within the same organization across different markets. Staffing changes, lack of collaboration with risk-bearing entities, and late referrals all contribute to uneven patient and family experiences, reinforcing the need for fewer, clearer, and more actionable measures.Episode One ultimately reframes measurement as a leadership issue—not a compliance exercise. Great hospice and palliative care, the panel argues, doesn't happen by accident. It is intentionally designed, supported by the right systems and processes, and continuously measured to reduce variability and honor patient goals. This opening episode sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the specific metrics that matter most—and how leaders can use them responsibly to improve care where it matters most.Host:Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOSCo-Host:Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today& CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsGuest:Bob Tavares, VP & General Manager, HealthPivots Robin Heffernan, PhD, Co-Founder and CEO, Empassion Mindy Stewart-Coffee, National Vice President, Palliative Care The 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
Top News Stories of the Month, January 2026At the end of life, quality matters—but too often, the metrics used in hospice and palliative care fail to reflect the care patients and families actually experience. In Episode One of Measures That Matter: How Better Metrics Can Transform End-of-Life Care, TCNtalks / Anatomy of Leadership explores why fewer, clearer quality measures are essential for reducing variability, improving patient outcomes, and supporting value-based care at the end of life.This episode introduces the Measures That Matter initiative through the lens of experience, data, and leadership responsibility. Bob Tavares explains how decades of healthcare analytics revealed a fundamental problem in hospice quality measurement: an abundance of metrics that fail to differentiate performance. Many current measures cluster nearly all providers at the top, making it difficult for patients, payers, and value-based organizations to identify true centers of excellence or address variability that puts patients at risk.From the provider and network perspective, Robin Heffernan and Mindy Stewart-Coffee highlight the real-world consequences of that variability. Across thousands of hospice and palliative care providers nationwide, quality is inconsistent—even within the same organization across different markets. Staffing changes, lack of collaboration with risk-bearing entities, and late referrals all contribute to uneven patient and family experiences, reinforcing the need for fewer, clearer, and more actionable measures.Episode One ultimately reframes measurement as a leadership issue—not a compliance exercise. Great hospice and palliative care, the panel argues, doesn't happen by accident. It is intentionally designed, supported by the right systems and processes, and continuously measured to reduce variability and honor patient goals. This opening episode sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the specific metrics that matter most—and how leaders can use them responsibly to improve care where it matters most.Host:Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOSCo-Host:Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today& CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsGuest:Bob Tavares, VP & General Manager, HealthPivots Robin Heffernan, PhD, Co-Founder and CEO, Empassion Mindy Stewart-Coffee, National Vice President, Palliative Care Teleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast
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
In this episode of 19 Cats & Counting, I'm joined by Dr. Bethany Hsia, co-founder of Coda Pet. Dr. Bethany Hsia and her husband, Dr. Gary Hsia, are both veterinarians. Along with Dr. Karen Whala, they created Coda Pet to help families navigate one of the hardest parts of loving an animal: saying goodbye. We talk openly about at-home euthanasia, what it really looks like, and why having this option can make such a profound difference for pets and the people who love them. Dr. Hsia explains how in-home care allows animals to remain in familiar surroundings, reduces stress, and gives families the space and time they need to be present and supported during the process. This conversation also explores the emotional side of end-of-life decisions, including how to know when it may be time, how veterinarians approach these moments with compassion, and why education around euthanasia is so important. For many pet guardians, fear of the unknown makes an already painful situation even harder. Dr. Hsia helps gently demystify the process while honoring how deeply personal these decisions are. This episode is thoughtful, honest, and reassuring, and it offers comfort and clarity to anyone facing — or wanting to better understand — end-of-life care for their pets.EPISODE NOTES: At-Home Euthanasia and Compassionate End-of-Life Care Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/19-cats-and-counting-on-pet-life-radio-petliferadio-com--6667858/support.
172 Understanding Hospice: Choices and Considerations for End of Life Care In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher, a registered nurse and former hospice nurse, educates listeners on the history and evolution of end-of-life care. She discusses the shift from dying at home to hospital deaths that began in the late 19th century and transitioned in the mid-20th century. Marie emphasizes the importance of having conversations about end-of-life preferences early, including the role and benefits of hospice care whether at home, in a facility, or in a hospital. She also highlights the necessity of having a caregiver for home hospice care and encourages listeners to make plans to ensure dignity and grace in end-of-life situations. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to subscribe, share, and make a positive difference in someone's life. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:48 Historical Perspective on Dying in Hospitals 02:07 Choosing Where to Die: Home or Hospital? 02:26 Understanding Hospice Care 03:10 Planning for End-of-Life Care 03:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You) Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
A major constitutional challenge is getting underway in B.C. Supreme Court that could reshape how end-of-life care is delivered across Canada. A Nanaimo cidery owner says a recent property assessment has put his farm in a costly and confusing legal grey zone — one that could drive his property taxes up by as much as 500 per cent. Why are so many BC restaurants struggling? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As 2025 comes to a close, Jamie sits down with Matt to look ahead to 2026 with honesty, leadership, and momentum. They reflect on habits worth reclaiming, the difference between awareness and action, and what it means to provide stability in uncertain seasons. Matt shares his “One Word” for 2026—Direction—and unpacks how it shapes his leadership, health journey, and commitment to helping teams move past what holds them back. Jamie also shares his own word—Directness—and the courage it takes to lean into discomfort for growth.
In the hospital setting, neurologists may be responsible for managing common end-of-life symptoms. Comprehensive end-of-life care integrates knowledge of the biomedical aspects of disease with patients' values and preferences for care; psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual needs; and support for patients and their families. In this episode, Teshamae Monteith, MD, FAAN, speaks with Claudia Z. Chou, MD, author of the article "End-of-Life Care and Hospice" in the Continuum® December 2025 Neuropalliative Care issue. Dr. Monteith is the associate editor of Continuum® Audio and an associate professor of clinical neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Miami, Florida. Dr. Knox is an assistant professor of neurology and a consultant in the Division of Community Internal Medicine, Geriatrics and Palliative Care at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Additional Resources Read the article: End-of-Life Care and Hospice Subscribe to Continuum®: shop.lww.com/Continuum Earn CME (available only to AAN members): continpub.com/AudioCME Continuum® Aloud (verbatim audio-book style recordings of articles available only to Continuum® subscribers): continpub.com/Aloud More about the American Academy of Neurology: aan.com Social Media facebook.com/continuumcme @ContinuumAAN Host: @headacheMD Full episode transcript available here Dr Jones: This is Dr Lyell Jones, Editor-in-Chief of Continuum. Thank you for listening to Continuum Audio. Be sure to visit the links in the episode notes for information about earning CME, subscribing to the journal, and exclusive access to interviews not featured on the podcast. Dr Monteith: This is Dr Teshamae Monteith. Today I'm interviewing Dr Claudia Chou about her article on end-of-life care and hospice, which is found in the December 2025 Continuum issue on neuropalliative care. Welcome to our podcast. How are you? Dr Chou: I'm doing well. Thank you for having me. This is really exciting to be here. Dr Monteith: Absolutely. So, why don't you introduce yourself to our audience? Dr Chou: Sure. My name is Claudia Chou. I am a full time hospice and palliative medicine physician at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. I'm trained in neurology, movement disorders, and hospice and palliative medicine. I'm also passionate about education, and I'm the program director for the Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship here. Dr Monteith: Cool. So just learning about your training, I kind of have an idea of how you got into this work, but why don't you tell me what inspired you to get into this area? Dr Chou: It was chance, actually. And really just good luck, being in the right place at the right time. I was in my residency and felt like I was missing something in my training. I was seeing these patients who were suffering strokes and had acute decline in functional status. We were seeing patients with new diagnosis of glioblastoma and knowing what that future looked like for them. And while I went into neurology because of a love of neuroscience, localizing the lesion, all of those things that we all love about neurology, I still felt like I didn't have the skill set to serve patients where they perhaps needed me the most in those difficult times where they were dealing with serious illness and functional decline. And so, the serendipitous thing was that I saw a grand rounds presentation by someone who works in neurology and palliative care for people with Parkinson's disease. And truly, it's not an exaggeration to say that by the end of that lecture, I said, I need to do palliative care, I need to rotate in this, I need to learn more. I think this is what I've been missing. And I had plans to practice both movement disorders neurology and palliative care, but I finished training in 2020… and that was not a long time ago. We can think of all the things that were going on, all the different global forces that were influencing our day-to-day decisions. And the way things worked out, staying in palliative care was really what my family and I needed. Dr Monteith: Wow, so that's really interesting. Must have been a great lecturer. Dr Chou: Yes, like one of the best. Dr Monteith: So why don't you tell me about the objectives of your article? Dr Chou: The objectives may be to fill in some of the gaps in knowledge that may be present for the general neurologist. We learn so much in neurology training, so much about how to diagnose and treat diseases, and I think I would argue that this really is part and parcel of all we should be doing. We are the experts in these diseases, and just because we're shifting to end-of-life or transitioning to a different type of care doesn't mean that we back out of someone's care entirely or transition over to a hospice or palliative care expert. It is part of our job to be there and guide patients and their care partners through this next phase. You know, I'm not saying we all need to be hospice and palliative care experts, but we need to be able to take those first steps with patients and their care partners. And so, I think objectives are really to focus in on, what are those core pieces of knowledge for end-of-life care and understanding hospice so we can take those first steps with patients and their care partners? Dr Monteith: So, why don't you give us some of those essential points in your article? Dr Chou: Yeah. In one section of the article, I talk about common symptoms that someone might experience at the end of life and how we might manage those. These days, a lot of hospitals have order sets that talk us through those symptoms. We can check things off of a drop-down menu. And yet I think there's a little bit more nuance to that. There may be situations in which we would choose one medication over another. There may be medications that we've never really thought of in terms of symptom management before. Something that I learned in my hospice and palliative medicine fellowship was that haloperidol can be helpful for nausea. I know that's usually not one of our go-tos in neurology for any number of reasons. So, I think that extra knowledge can take us pretty far when we're managing end of life symptoms, particularly in the hospital setting. And then I think the other component is the hospice component. A lot of us may have not had experience talking about hospice, talking about what hospice can provide, and again, knowing how to take those first steps with patients. We may be referring to social work or palliative medicine to start those conversations. But again, I think this is something that's definitely learnable and something that should be part of our skill set in neurology. Dr Monteith: Great. And so, when you speak about symptom management and being more comfortable with the tools that we have, how can we be more efficient and more effective at that? Dr Chou: Think about what the common symptoms are at end of life. We may know this kind of intuitively, but what we commonly see are things like pain, nausea, dyspnea, anxiety, delirium or agitation. And so, I think having a little bit of a checklist in mind can be helpful. You know, how can I systematically think through a differential, almost, for why my patient might be uncomfortable? Why they might be restless? Have I thought through these different symptoms? Can I try a medication from my tool kit? See if that works, and if it does, we can continue on. If not, what's the next thing that I can pivot to? So, I think these are common skills for a little bit of a differential diagnosis, if you will, and how to work through these problems just with the end-of-life lens on it. Dr Monteith: So, are there any, like, validated tools or checklists that are freely available? Dr Chou: I don't think there's been anything particularly validated for end-of-life care in neurologic disease. And so, a lot of our treatments and our approaches are empiric, but I don't think there's been anything validated, per se. Dr Monteith: Great. So, why don't we talk a little bit about the approach to discussions on hospice? We all, as you kind of alluded to, want to be effective neurologists, care for our patients, but we sometimes deal with very debilitating diseases. And so, when we think that or suspect that our patient is kind of terminally ill, how do we approach that to our patients? Of course, our patients come from different backgrounds, different experiences. So, what is your approach? Dr Chou: So, when we talk about hospice and when a patient may be appropriate for hospice, we have to acknowledge that we think that they may be in the last six months of their disease. We as the neurologist are the experts in their disease and the best ones to weigh in on that prognosis. The patient and their care partners then have to accept that the type of care that hospice provides is what makes sense for them. Hospice focuses on comfort and treating a patient's comfort as the primary goal. Hospice is not as interested in treating cancer, say, to prolong life. Hospice is not as interested in life-prolonging measures and treatments that are not focused at comfort and quality of life. And so, when we have that alignment between our understanding of a patient's disease and their prognosis and the patient care partner's goal is to focus on comfort and quality of life above all else, that's when we have a patient who might be appropriate for hospice and ready to hear more about what that actually entails. Dr Monteith: And what are some, maybe, myths that neurologist healthcare professionals may have about hospice that you really want us to kind of have some clarity on? Dr Chou: That's a great question. What we often tell patients is that hospice's goal is to help patients live as well as possible in the time that they have left. Again, our primary objective is not life prolongation, but quality of life. Hospice's goal is also not to speed up or slow down the natural dying process. Sometimes we do get questions about that: can't you make this go faster or we're ready for the end. But really, we are there to help patients along the natural journey that their body is taking them on. And I think hospice care can actually be complex. In the inpatient setting, in particular in neurology, we may be seeing patients who have suffered large strokes and have perhaps only days to a few weeks of life left. But in the outpatient setting and in the home hospice setting, patients can be on hospice for many months, and so they will have new care needs, new urinary tract infections, sometimes new rashes, the need to change their insulin regimens around to avoid extremes of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. So, there is a lot of complexity in that care and a lot that can be wrapped up under that quality-of-life and comfort umbrella. Dr Monteith: And to get someone to hospice requires a bit of prognostication, right? Six months of prediction in terms of a terminal illness. I know there's some nuances to that. So how can you make us feel more comfortable about making the recommendations for hospice? Dr Chou: I think this is a big challenge in the field. We're normally guided by Medicare guidelines that say when a patient might be hospice-appropriate. And so, for a neurologic disease, this really only encompasses four conditions: ALS, stroke, coma, and Alzheimer's dementia. And we can think of all the other diseases that are not encompassed in those four. And so, I think we say that we paint the picture of what it means to have a prognosis of six months or less. So, from the neurologic side, that can be, what do you know about this disease and what end-stage might look like? What is the pattern of the patient's functional decline? What are they needing more help with? Are there other factors at play such as heart failure or COPD that may in and of themselves not be a qualifying diagnosis for hospice, but when it's taken together in the whole clinical picture, you have a patient who's very ill and one that you're worried may die in the next six months or less? Dr Monteith: Then you also had some nice charts on kind of disease-specific guidelines. Can you take us a little bit through that? Dr Chou: The article does contain tables about specific criteria that may qualify someone for hospice with these neurologic conditions. And they are pretty dense. I know they're a checklist of a lot of different things. And so, how we practice is by trying to refer patients to hospice based on those guidelines as much as possible and then using our own clinical judgment as well, what we have seen through taking care of patients through the years. So, again, really going back to that decline. What is making you feel uncomfortable about this patient's prognosis? What is making you feel like, gosh, this patient could be well supported by hospice, and they could have six months or less? So, all of that should go into your decision as well. And all of that should go into your discussion with the patient and their care partners. Dr Monteith: Yeah. And reading your article, what stood out was all the services that patients can receive under hospice. So, I think sometimes people think, okay, this is terminal illness, let's get to hospice for whatever reasons, but not necessarily all the lists and lists and lists of benefits of hospice. So, I don't know that everyone's aware of all those benefits. So, can you talk to us a little bit about that? Dr Chou: Yeah, I like that you brought that up because that's also something that I often say to patients and their care partners when we're talking about hospice. When the time is right for a patient to enroll in hospice, they should not feel like they're giving anything up. There should be no more clinical trial that they're hoping to chase down, and so they should just feel like they're gaining all of those good supports: care that comes to their home, a team that knows them well, someone that's available twenty-four hours a day by phone and can actually even come into the home setting if needed to help with symptom management. Hospice comes as well with the psychosocial supports for just coping with what dying looks like. We know that's not easy to be thinking about dying for oneself, or for a family member or care partner to be losing their loved one. So, all of those supports are built into hospice. I did want to make a distinction, too, that hospice does not provide custodial care, which I explain to patients as care of the body, those daily needs for bathing, dressing, eating, etc. Sometimes patients are interested in hospice because they're needing more help at home, and I have to tell them that unfortunately, our healthcare system is not built for that. And if that's the sole reason that someone is interested in hospice, we have to think about a different approach, because that is not part of the hospice benefit. Dr Monteith: Thank you for that. And then I learned about concurrent care. So why don't you tell us a little bit about that? That's a little bit of a nuance, right? Dr Chou: Yeah, that is a little bit of a nuance. And so, typically when patients are enrolling in hospice, they are transitioning from care the way that it's normally conducted in our healthcare system. So, outpatient visits to all of the specialists and to their primary care providers, the chance to go to the ER or the ICU for higher levels of care. And yet there are a subset of patients who can still have all of those cares alongside hospice care. That really applies to two specific populations: veterans who are receiving care through the Veterans Administration, and then younger patients, so twenty six years old and less, can receive that care through, essentially, a pediatric carve out. Dr Monteith: Great. Well, I mean, you gave so much information in your article, so our listeners are going to have to read it. I don't want you to spill everything, but if you can just kind of give me a sense what you want a neurologist to take away from your article, I think that would be helpful. Dr Chou: I think what I want neurologist to take away is that, again, this is something that is part of what we do as neurologists. This is part of our skill set, and this is part of what it means to take good care of patients. I think what we do in this transition period from kind of usual cares, diagnosis, full treatment to end of life, really can have impact on patients and their care partners. It's not uncommon for me to hear from family members who have had another loved one go through hospice about how that experience was positive or negative. And so, we can think about the influence for years to come, even, because of how well we can handle these transitions. That really can be more than the patient in front of us in their journey. That is really important, but it can also have wide-reaching implications beyond that. Dr Monteith: Excellent. And I know we were talking earlier a little bit about your excitement with the field and where it's going. So why don't you share some of that excitement? Dr Chou: Yeah. And so, I think there is a lot still to come in the field of neuropalliative care, particularly from an evidence base. I know we talked a lot about the soft skills, about presence and communication, but we are clinicians at heart, and we need to practice from an evidence base. I know that's been harder in palliative care, but we have some international work groups that really are trying to come together, see what our approaches look like, see where standardization may need to happen or where our differences are actually our strength. I think there can be a lot of variability in what palliative care looks like. So, my hope is that evidence base is coming through these collaborations. I know it's hard to have a conversation these days without talking about artificial intelligence, but that is certainly a hope. When you look at morbidity, when you look at patients with these complicated disease courses, what is pointing you in the direction of, again, a prognosis of six months or less or a patient who may do better with this disease versus not? And so, I think there's a lot to come from the artificial intelligence and big data realm. For the trainees listening out there, there is no better time to be excited about neuropalliative care and to be thinking about neuropalliative care. I said that I stumbled upon this field, and hopefully someone is inspired as well by listening to these podcasts and reading Continuum to know what this field is really about. And so, it's been exponential growth since I joined this field. We have medical students now who want to come into neuropalliative care as a profession. We have clinicians who are directors of neuropalliative care at their institutions. We have an international neuropalliative care society and neuropalliative care at AAN. And I think we are moving closer to that dream for all of us, which is that patients living with serious neurologic illness can be supported throughout that journey. High-quality, evidence-based palliative care. We're not there yet, but I think it is a possibility that we reach that in my lifetime. Dr Monteith: Well, excellent. I look forward to maybe another revision of this article with some of that work incorporated. And it's been wonderful to talk to you and to reflect on how better to approach patients that are towards the end of life and to help them with that decision-making process. Thank you so much. Dr Chou: Yeah, thank you for having me. And we're very excited about this issue. Dr Monteith: Today. I've been interviewing Dr Claudia Chou about her article on end-of-life care and hospice, which is found in the December 2025 Continuum issue on neuropalliative care. Be sure to check out Continuum Audio episodes from this and other issues, and thank you to our listeners for joining today. Dr Monteith: This is Dr Teshamae Monteith, Associate Editor of Continuum Audio. If you've enjoyed this episode, you'll love the journal, which is full of in-depth and clinically relevant information important for neurology practitioners. Use the link in the episode notes to learn more and subscribe. AAN members, you can get CME for listening to this interview by completing the evaluation at continpub.com/audioCME. Thank you for listening to Continuum Audio.
In this episode, Suzanne O'Brien shares her inspiring journey from working as a nurse to becoming the founder of Doulagivers, an organization dedicated to providing free end-of-life care training to people around the world. Suzanne discusses her impactful work in countries like Guatemala and Thailand, where she has helped bring compassionate care and vital resources to communities in need. She emphasizes the belief that compassionate end-of-life care is a fundamental human right, and describes the ongoing global expansion of Doulagivers' mission. Suzanne highlights several recent milestones, including the successful completion of a much-needed respite house in Guatemala, which offers comfort and support to those facing end-of-life challenges. She also announces the launch of Spanish-language training programs to better serve diverse communities, and introduces the upcoming Life Café community initiative, designed to foster open conversations and support around end-of-life issues. Throughout the episode, Suzanne encourages listeners to choose love over fear, embrace conscious and intentional living, and become part of the growing movement to make compassionate, accessible end-of-life care available to all. (00:01:20) Listening to Higher Self and Life Mastery (00:02:32) Suzanne's Nursing Background and Disillusionment (00:03:38) Transition to Hospice and Founding Doula Givers (00:10:06) Doulagivers Thailand: The Beginning (00:12:22) Inspired Guidance and the Path to Guatemala (00:13:58) Influence of Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross (00:16:43) The Vision and Creation of the Guatemala Respite House Links mentioned in this episode: Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation Fundación Elisabeth Kübler Ross Guatemala Join the Life Cafe here Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker? Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑ If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create the life you want by surrounding yourself with positivity and watching daily. Click here to subscribe! ツ CONNECT WITH ME ツ Leave a comment on this video and it'll get a response. Or you can connect with me on different social platforms too: Instagram Facebook TikTok Website Podcast #deathdoula #deathdoultraining #dyingwell #death #life #deatheducation #doulagivers #hospice #hospicecare #hospicenurse #deathdoula #soulmidwife #deathmidwife #endoflifeplanning #healthcareproxy #funerals #fearofdeath #endoflifedoula #thegooddeath #hospice #grief #deathawareness #birth #endoflife #deathpositivity #consciousdying #dying #advanceplanning #deathpositive #gooddeath #consciousliving #endoflifedirective #palliativecare #advancedirective #livefully #suzannebobrien. #lifecafe #consciousness #awarenes
If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice 165 A Rhythm to Remember: Enhancing End-of-Life Care In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN interviews Daniel DeLoma, a hospice chaplain and founder of Meditative Heartbeat Therapy. They discuss how this integrative approach helps patients achieve calm and comfort during end-of-life care. Daniel provides insights into the methods used in heartbeat therapy, its origins, and how it complements traditional care practices. The episode delves into the emotional and spiritual aspects of dying, illustrating the unique benefits of this therapeutic approach. They also touch on the importance of incorporating various forms of support for the patient, including the role of family and healthcare providers. 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 00:29 Meet Your Host: Marie Betcher RN 00:47 Introducing Daniel DeLoma and Meditative Heartbeat Therapy 03:12 The Origins of Meditative Heartbeat Therapy 05:20 Implementing Meditative Heartbeat Therapy in Hospice Care 06:09 The Role of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy 10:00 Practical Applications and Future Directions 23:23 Funny Anecdotes and Personal Stories 25:37 Challenges and Improvements in Hospice Care 28:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://www.heartbeattherapy.com/ Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You) If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
KEY TAKEAWAYSHospice isn't a crisis response—it's a planned, values-based care transition.Patients are guided into hospice through ongoing conversations with their care team, not sudden decisions.Your Health's model is uniquely team-based.Clinical teams—NPs, nurses, social workers, CHWs, SSAs—collaborate long before a hospice referral happens.Eligibility is defined by Medicare, but the experience is defined by the patient.Patients choose what services they want: chaplaincy, volunteers, home aides, social work, and moreFamily support is a major part of the program.Hospice helps families avoid panic, emergency room visits, and uncertainty by educating them and offering 24/7 resources.Non-clinical roles are essential.Volunteers, chaplains, and social workers play major roles in emotional, logistical, and spiritual support.Respite care is a game-changer for caregiver burnout.Five-day facility stays covered under the hospice benefit help families regroup, rest, and sustain caregiving.Your Health provides continuity “from pediatrics to end of life.”The organization's ecosystem lets patients receive personalized care at every stage of their life journey. www.YourHealth.Org
Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, our host, Gabrielle Crichlow, sits down with hospice expert Jenny Lytle, a registered nurse, to explore the often-misunderstood world of hospice care. Hospice is a specialized form of end-of-life care designed for terminally ill patients, typically with a prognosis of six months or less, focusing on providing dignity, comfort, and support during this challenging time.Together, Gabrielle and Jenny unravel the myths and realities surrounding hospice, discussing its true purpose in compassionate care. Jenny shares her insights on the importance of support for both patients and their families, explaining how patients can remain in hospice longer if they continue to meet eligibility criteria.They delve into the vital role of the hospice care team, which includes nurses, physicians, and social workers, all dedicated to holistic support. A significant topic of discussion is nurse burnout, as the emotional toll and demands of caring for patients at the end of life can be overwhelming. Jenny emphasizes the need for self-care and support systems for hospice nurses to prevent burnout and maintain their ability to provide compassionate care.Listeners will also learn about the benefits of open communication and how hospice emphasizes quality of life over curative treatment, allowing patients to prioritize their wishes. Join us for this heartfelt conversation that aims to demystify hospice and highlight its essential role in the journey of life. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for this important aspect of healthcare.Who is Jenny Lytle?Jenny Lytle, BSN, RN, is a nurse, coach, speaker, and author of Self-Care Isn't Selfish: The Compassionate Nurse's Step-by-Step Guide to Personalized Stress Relief. With 30 years of nursing experience—19 of those in hospice and end-of-life care—Jenny understands the unique challenges caregivers face. Inspired by her own burnout and personal loss, she developed The BECOMING Method, a practical approach to managing stress and creating sustainable self-care habits. Now, she empowers nurses and other caregivers—working with both individuals and organizations—to reduce stress, prevent burnout, and prioritize their well-being—without guilt—so they can continue making a meaningful impact.You can find Jenny (Updated):On Facebook (personal): https://www.facebook.com/gahjennyOn Facebook (business): https://www.facebook.com/becomingyourbestwithjennylytleRN/In her Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AzpxKCFaW/ On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennylytlern/On Threads: https://www.threads.com/@jennylytlernOn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-lytle-bsn-rn-682398b/On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jennylytlernBy email: jennylytle@jennylytle.comJenny also has a book called "Self-Care Isn't Selfish." Purchase it on Amazon: https://a.co/d/7pjnBMlWatch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/g9DuUHGy-60Rate this episode on IMDB: TBA********************************************Follow Gabrielle Crichlow:On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlowOn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlowOn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services:On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservicesOn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservicesOn X: https://www.x.com/ASATS2013On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservicesOn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.comVisit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.comSign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribeSign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJOCheck out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcastSupport us:Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013Zelle: success@astepaheadtutoringservices.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/supportOriginal date of episode: August 19, 2025
KEY POINTSYour Health is launching a new hospice program to complete the continuum of care.Hospice is not new to leadership—team members have decades of experience.Palliative care and hospice work together:Palliative can continue indefinitelyHospice begins when disease progression reaches an advanced stage and patients choose comfort over curative treatmentHospice helps patients avoid unnecessary ER visits, hospital stays, and stressful care transitions.The new program allows patients to stay with their same care team, maintaining continuity and trust.Eligibility begins with specific diagnoses and a provider's order, supported by clinical and non-clinical indicators like frequent falls, increased symptoms, or significant weight loss.The “six-month rule” is based on normal disease progression, not an exact timeline.The new hospice service enhances value-based care, controlling costs while improving outcomes.Your Health staff play an important role in asking, “**What matters to you?**”The program ultimately expands patient choice and honors their wishes with compassion and dignity. www.YourHealth.Org
A growing number of US states and other nations are legalizing either voluntary euthanasia in which a physician (or designate) administers lethal drugs, or physician-assisted dying in which the drugs are given to the patient to self-administer. Our guest, Erica Baccus, tells us about her husband's determination to end his life rather than die of Alzheimer's disease, and the journey they took to Switzerland to make it possible (US laws don't apply to dementia). His wishes were unquestionably honored. At the same time the procedure has implications we find troubling, especially for what it can mean for the doctor-patient relationship, such as in Canada where some physicians are now killing several of their patients a week.
162 A Return to Hospice: Embracing the Spiritual Side of End-of-Life Care In episode 162 of 'Hospice Explained,' host Marie Betcher RN, a former hospice nurse, returns from a brief hiatus to continue her mission of educating and alleviating fears around end-of-life care. Marie introduces her second podcast, 'Hospice Encounters, Piercing the Veil,' and discusses her intention to explore the spiritual aspects of hospice care alongside the physical and mental aspects. She shares personal stories, including an experience where she felt protected by an unseen presence and an emotional account of her son's dog Ranger's final moments, speculating about the presence of angels. Marie encourages listeners to remain open to different spiritual beliefs and teases upcoming spiritually focused episodes. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 00:47 Host's Personal Update and Podcast Direction 01:53 Spirituality in Hospice Care 03:10 Angel Story: A Protective Presence 03:51 Ranger's Story: A Dog's Final Moments 06:55 Haley's Perspective on Ranger's Final Moments 07:35 Conclusion and Call to Action Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You) If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
Palliative care physician Dr. BJ Miller survived a near-death experience and lost three limbs at just 19 years old. In this intimate conversation, he tells Sarah how confronting mortality reshaped his purpose, and opened his heart to awe, humor, creativity, and love. BJ has been on a mission to redefine end-of-life care through his work at Mettle Health and his book, "A Beginner's Guide to the End." He invites you to challenge the fear and silence around death, and imagine a better way to live — and die.
Opioids remain a cornerstone of palliative care for patients with serious illnesses like cancer, yet their use is often misunderstood, undertreated, or approached with unnecessary hesitation. This episode explores what pharmacists need to know about assessing opioid appropriateness, questioning therapy when warranted, and supporting comfort-focused care within established clinical and ethical standards. Tune in to build confidence in your role and contribute meaningfully to the care of patients facing serious illness.HOSTJoshua Davis Kinsey, PharmDVP, EducationCEimpactGUESTLorin Fisher, PharmD, BCACPClinical Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Iowa College of PharmacyJoshua Davis Kinsey and Lorin Fisher have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.Pharmacists, REDEEM YOUR CPE HERE!CPE is available to Health Mart franchise members onlyTo learn more about Health Mart, click here: https://join.healthmart.com/CPE INFORMATION Learning ObjectivesUpon successful completion of this knowledge-based activity, participants should be able to:1. Identify the role of opioids in managing pain and other symptoms for patients receiving palliative care.2. Describe key considerations for evaluating opioid prescriptions in the context of serious illness, including appropriate use and safety concerns. 0.05 CEU/0.5 HrUAN: 0107-0000-25-330-H01-PInitial release date: 11/10/2025Expiration date: 11/10/2026Additional CPE details can be found here.
Opioids remain a cornerstone of palliative care for patients with serious illnesses like cancer, yet their use is often misunderstood, undertreated, or approached with unnecessary hesitation. This episode explores what pharmacists need to know about assessing opioid appropriateness, questioning therapy when warranted, and supporting comfort-focused care within established clinical and ethical standards. Tune in to build confidence in your role and contribute meaningfully to the care of patients facing serious illness. HOSTJoshua Davis Kinsey, PharmDVP, EducationCEimpactGUESTLorin Fisher, PharmD, BCACPClinical Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Iowa College of PharmacyJoshua Davis Kinsey and Lorin Fisher have no relevant financial relationships to disclose. Pharmacist Members, REDEEM YOUR CPE HERE! Not a member? Get a Pharmacist Membership & earn CE for GameChangers Podcast episodes! (30 mins/episode)CPE INFORMATIONLearning ObjectivesUpon successful completion of this knowledge-based activity, participants should be able to:1. Identify the role of opioids in managing pain and other symptoms for patients receiving palliative care.2. Describe key considerations for evaluating opioid prescriptions in the context of serious illness, including appropriate use and safety concerns. 0.05 CEU/0.5 HrUAN: 0107-0000-25-330-H01-PInitial release date: 11/10/2025Expiration date: 11/10/2026Additional CPE details can be found here.Follow CEimpact on Social Media:LinkedInInstagram
November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about hospice and palliative care and celebrating the professionals and volunteers who provide this essential care. Our guest is Dr. Linda Valentino, Chief Nursing Officer at NY City-based Calvary Hospital. Calvary is the country's only hospital dedicated to providing hospice and palliative care to adult patients with advanced cancer and other life-limiting illness.
Palliative care isn't “giving up”—it's teaming up. Nurse practitioner Minerva Sabine explains how comfort, clarity, and support can begin from day one of a serious diagnosis—not just at the end. In this conversation, she demystifies palliative care, outlines who can benefit, and shares how early involvement can ease stress for both patients and families.You'll learn how palliative teams coordinate with doctors, manage symptoms, and guide meaningful conversations about goals and values. Minerva also shares powerful real-world stories that highlight the difference this approach makes in quality of life and peace of mind.Timestamps0:00 - Intro3:25 - What palliative care really is—and how it differs from hospice7:10 - When to involve palliative care and what families can expect10:45 - The interdisciplinary team: medicine, emotion, and spirit14:20 - Common misconceptions and real patient stories18:30 - How palliative care supports families and improves quality of lifeWhat's NextIf palliative care might help you or a loved one, start by asking your doctor for a referral. Visit The Conversation Project to explore free guides that help families talk about wishes and values before a crisis.Stay connected with Seniority Authority on Facebook and Instagram for more practical, positive conversations about growing older with purpose.
What's the episode about? In this episode, hear Dr Jessica Young on assisteddying, the New Zealand End of Life Choice Bill, culturally responsive research, end of life care and decision making, and sociological approaches.Who is Jessica?Dr Jessica Young is a Senior Research Fellow at Victoria University of Wellington and the University of Auckland, and an adjunct senior lecturer in the Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology.She is a sociologist specialising in death, dying andassisted dying. She completed her PhD in 2020 at the University of Otago and received a prestigious post-doctoral fellowship from the Cancer Society of New Zealand.Since the End of Life Choice Bill was introduced in NewZealand, Dr Young has been building a programme of research to investigate multiple facets of assisted dying. She leads and contributes to several projects on assisteddying, most recently ‘Exploring the early experiences of the assisted dying service in Aotearoa', funded by the Health Research Council. Dr Young has led impactful research in end-of-life care, securing over $3 million in competitive funding. She is the founder and co-chair of New Zealand'sAssisted Dying Research Network and was appointed by the Director-General of Health to the Support and Consultation for End of Life in NZ (SCENZ) Group (2021–2023). Her work has directly shaped national policy: 13 of her team's recommendations were adopted in the Ministry of Health's 2024 End of Life Choice Act Review.She has published over 40 peer-reviewed articles, six editorials, and three book chapters. To ensure her research goes beyond academia, she activelyengages with media. She is passionate about improving end-of-life experiences for patients, whānau/families and health practitioners. Committed to ethical, inclusive, and culturally responsive research, she seeks to involve tangatawhenua (indigenous people of NZ), stakeholders and communities. You can find Jessica on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-young-7097a722/ The book introduced in the episode introduction is Death, Commemoration, and Cultural Meaning Past and PresentEdited by Robert Spinelli and Robyn S. Lacy. How do I cite the episode in my research and reading lists?To cite this episode, you can use thefollowing citation: Young, J. (2025) Interview on The Death Studies Podcast hosted by Michael-Fox, B. and Visser, R. Published 1 November 2025. Available at: www.thedeathstudiespodcast.com, DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.30507878 What next?Check out more episodes or find out more about the hosts! Gota question? Get in touch.
Christin Ament from The Bardo in Inver Grove Heights joins Adam to talk about rethinking end of life care.
‘Dying to Live’ was a panel discussion that took place in the Grimshaw Room of St Chad’s Cathedral, Birmingham, on Sunday 26 October. It examined how faith traditions approach dying, death, and bereavement and the religious and cultural practices observed in end-of-life settings. Moderated by Associate Professor Maggie Doherty, Lead at the Centre for the […]
‘Dying to Live’ was a panel discussion that took place in the Grimshaw Room of St Chad’s Cathedral, Birmingham, on Sunday 26 October. It examined how faith traditions approach dying, death, and bereavement and the religious and cultural practices observed in end-of-life settings. Moderated by Associate Professor Maggie Doherty, Lead at the Centre for the […]
Navigating Autism and End of Life: A Conversation with Dr. Caroline EltonIn this episode of The Girl Doc Survival Guide, host Christine invites back psychologist Dr. Caroline Elton, who has extensive experience supporting doctors' emotional wellbeing. Dr. Elton discusses her new book, Looking After: A Portrait of My Autistic Brother, and touches on end-of-life care.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:59 Discussing 'Looking After: Portrait of My Autistic Brother'01:22 Lionel's Early Life and Autism Diagnosis02:51 Mother Blaming and Historical Context05:09 Lionel's Leukemia Diagnosis and End of Life Care05:57 Challenges of Communicating About Death11:42 Autism Hospital Passport and Caregiving13:03 Reflections on Lionel's Life and Impact16:42 Final Thoughts on End of Life Care for Autistic Individuals
In this moving and wide-ranging conversation, host Claire O’Berry sits down with mentor and trailblazer Deanna Cochran, RN, hospice nurse and bestselling author, to explore the current challenges — and extraordinary possibilities — in end-of-life care. Together, they discuss the growing gaps in U.S. healthcare, the power of early planning, and how end-of-life doulas can help families long before hospice. Deanna shares the deeply personal story of her father’s end-of-life journey and why community-based models like compassionate communities and doula-led neighborhood networks may be the most effective solution for the future. Topics covered: End-of-life care systems: Australia vs. U.S. The role and training of end-of-life doulas Building community and compassionate care networks What families really need in the pre-hospice stage Why mentorship and collaboration are critical for doulas Deanna’s book: Accompanying the Dying: Practical, Heart-Centered Wisdom for End-of-Life Doulas and Healthcare AdvocatesLearn more: CareDoula® Education https://caredoulaeducation.com/ Earlier Podcast with Deanna Cochran: https://dyingyourway.com/podcast-item/rn-reclaiming-community-centered-death-care-with-deanna-cochran/ Explore Dying Your Way End of Life Training: https://www.dyingyourway.com/eol-training
Health Calls Season 6, Episode 4 explores the transformative power of Whole Person Care in the context of palliative care, with guest Lori Dangberg, Executive Vice President of the Alliance of Catholic Health Care in California. Lori shares the origins and impact of a statewide initiative that brings together dioceses, parishes, and health systems to support patients and families through serious illness and end-of-life care. The episode highlights how collaborative education—through a five-module curriculum—empowers parish leaders and clinicians to engage in meaningful conversations around palliative care, Catholic moral teaching, and advanced care planning. With resources available in multiple languages and formats, the initiative fosters dignity, compassion, and informed decision-making. Hosts Brian Reardon and Josh Matejka reflect on the importance of this work as the population ages and the need for holistic care grows. Health Calls is available on the following podcast streaming platforms:Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTubeLearn more about The Catholic Health Association of the United States at www.chausa.org.
Learn about a new book that addresses challenges faced by patients, providers, and caregivers at the end of life. My guest Cathy Yuhas is an RN and certified end-of-life doula who founded Dying Matters, LLC to advocate for conscious, compassionate end-of-life care. She is also the author of a new book: Walking Each Other Home:… Continue reading Ep. 524 Meeting the Challenges of End-of-Life Care with Cathy Yuhas RN
Did you know that 77% of patients want their physicians to consider their spiritual needs? Spirituality and religion have a significant impact on the quality of life and preferences of care, which align with the fundamentals of palliative medicine. In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Ariel Dempsey to explore the role of spirituality in medicine, its positive and negative manifestations, and how physicians from any background can open the door to whole-person care for their patients.
Following her New York Times bestseller Nothing to Fear, TikTok star @HospiceNurseJulie, Julie McFadden RN, is back to share a comforting and practical companion for making peace with the end of life. Her new journal, THE NOTHING TO FEAR JOURNAL released in June, is an invaluable tool for putting our beliefs about death into practice through thought-provoking questions that prompt reflection, clarification, and planning. With over 1.7M followers on TikTok alone, her content has revealed society's curiosity about the unknown parts of death and dying. The conversation around death is notoriously taboo in society, but Julie's mission to share the valuable lessons she has learned as a Los Angeles-based hospice nurse for over 15 years, has encouraged countless individuals to embrace talking about death and dying. If you want to stay strong and energized now and as you age, then you have to try Mitopure Gummies. Our friends at Timeline are offering 20% off, just for our listeners. Head to timeline.com/CWPODCAST to get started. That's timeline.com/CWPODCAST Your cells will thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if the very services meant to ease your symptoms could also extend your life and yet most people don't learn about them until it's far too late?Dr. Katie Deming sits down with Dr. Lisa Tartaglia, a dual board-certified palliative care and hospice physician, to clear up the confusion around two of healthcare's most misunderstood services. You'll discover the real difference between palliative care and hospice, and why both focus on helping you live fully rather than simply managing decline. Her approach challenges the common belief that these services are only for the final days of life. Dr. Tartaglia reveals why patients who receive hospice services earlier often live longer and with greater peace, plus the specific questions to ask when evaluating providers in your area. Chapters:05:10 Why symptoms matter more than stage13:20 Meeting patients where they are23:55 How a palliative consult actually works35:45 What hospice really provides at home42:30 How to choose the right hospiceDr. Tartaglia shares her unique perspective as someone who's guided thousands of families through these decisions over two decades of practice. This conversation offers practical guidance you won't find in most doctor's offices. Dr. Tartaglia explains when someone qualifies for these services, how to choose the right provider, and why early involvement leads to better outcomes. You'll learn how to have conversations with your healthcare team about symptom management and quality of life services. They also discuss why staying true to yourself, rather than identifying completely with your diagnosis, plays a crucial role in your healing journey.Listen and understand how these services could transform your experience with chronic illness, whether you're dealing with cancer, heart failure, or other challenging health conditions. Connect with guest: https://mypromessa.com/Access the FREE Water Fasting Masterclass Now: https://www.katiedeming.com/the-healing-power-of-fasting/ Transform your hydration with the system that delivers filtered, mineralized, and structured water all in one. Spring Aqua System: https://springaqua.info/drkatieMORE FROM KATIE DEMING M.D. Work with Dr. Katie: www.katiedeming.comEmail: INFO@KATIEDEMING.COM 6 Pillars of Healing Cancer Workshop Series - Click Here to Enroll Follow Dr. Katie Deming on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiedemingmd/ Watch on Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5LplU70TE9i01tW_7Tozi8b6X6rGBKA2&si=ZXLy5PjM7daD6AV5 Please Support the Show Share this episode with a friend or family member Give a Review on Spotify Give a Review on Apple Podcast DISCLAIMER: The Born to Heal Podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for seeking professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual medical histories are unique; therefore, this episode should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease without consulting your healthcare provider.
Hospice nurse Barbara Karnes helped set the standard for end-of-life care 35 years ago, when she wrote "Gone From My Sight." It's a little blue pamphlet that uses simple, straightforward language to explain the dying process - and it is still widely used today by hospice agencies across the country. In this episode, Barbara tells Sarah how hospice helps not just the dying individual, but their loved ones too. They also discuss what the dying process looks and sounds like, and what to know if you're helping someone through it.You can learn more about Barbara's advocacy work and buy all of her pamphlets here: https://bkbooks.com/
What if gambling with your time was the smartest investment you could make as a thought leader? Today on Leveraging Thought Leadership, host Peter Winick sits down with Dan Ariely—renowned behavioral economist, three-time New York Times bestselling author, and one of the sharpest minds in decision science. His work has influenced companies like Google and Apple, guided governments, and sparked movements in how we understand human behavior. Dan shares why he doesn't believe in rigid career paths but instead embraces intellectual adventure. His approach? Say yes to opportunities, experiment widely, and learn fast. From writing children's books to advising on Middle East diplomacy, he treats each project as a test of impact and possibility. It's thought leadership powered by curiosity, not by a fixed roadmap. We explore how Dan chooses where to focus his time and energy—not on where the money is, but on where humanity is underperforming. Whether it's helping people rethink end-of-life care, confronting our irrational use of social media, or tackling the psychology of sleep, his work points toward reducing suffering and increasing human well-being at scale. What stands out is not just Dan's research, but his method. He embeds himself in the world he studies. He spends Fridays with palliative care doctors and end-of-life doulas, visits slums to understand poverty, and listens deeply to those at the margins. For him, real thought leadership means turning lived experience into research-backed insights—and transforming those insights into powerful stories people remember. This conversation is a masterclass in aligning expertise with purpose. Dan shows how storytelling, data, and empathy intersect to create impact. And he reminds us that luck isn't found—it's generated by saying yes, trying widely, and learning relentlessly. Three Key Takeaways: • Gamble with your time wisely — saying yes to diverse opportunities creates luck, generates new insights, and fuels thought leadership. • Focus where humanity underperforms — the biggest impact comes from tackling areas where society consistently falls short, like end-of-life care, social media use, or health behaviors. • Turn research into stories — embedding in real-world experiences and translating data into memorable narratives makes ideas resonate and spread at scale. If you found this episode thought-provoking, you'll want to keep the momentum going with our conversation on organizational thought leadership in nonprofits with Marci Alboher. Both episodes shine a light on how thought leadership can tackle the places where humanity underperforms—whether it's rethinking end-of-life care and decision-making, or changing the narrative around aging and intergenerational collaboration. In Dan's episode, you'll hear how curiosity and experimentation fuel insights that reduce suffering and spark change at scale. In Marci's, you'll discover how nonprofits can amplify voices, craft stories, and shift perceptions to unlock the untapped value of older generations. Together, these episodes show how purpose-driven thought leadership—grounded in storytelling and human impact—can create real transformation. Listen to Marci's episode next and expand your perspective on how ideas can drive change across both individuals and organizations.
Send us a textThis episode of Think Like a Dog with Andreia and Millie focuses on senior dogs and the unique care they require. The discussion highlights why training remains valuable for them at any age, the medical considerations that come with growing older, and the ways their behavior may change over time.It also covers how senior dogs adjust when new pets are introduced into the household and explores the emotional aspects of caring for them, including the difficult but necessary decisions surrounding end-of-life care.The conversation emphasizes the importance of awareness, compassion, and proactive steps to ensure senior dogs experience comfort, stability, and love in their golden years.Attend the MIK9 Masterclass: https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/mik9masterclassSign up for Mirror Image K9 Extended: http://mirrorimagek9.com/extendedSupport the showFollow Us On Instagram: @thinklikeadogpodcast @Mirrorimagek9 @OzzieAlbiesFoundation Work with Mirror Image K9 here: https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactusBe Our Guest: https://www.thinklikeadogpodcast.com Learn More About The Best Chance Program: https://www.ozziealbiesfoundation.org/
America Out Loud PULSE with Dr. Randall Bock – The role of the doctor — in psychiatry or end-of-life care — is not to erase the “why.” It is to explore it, hold it up to the light, and help the patient endure until the story reaches its natural close. Psychiatry once meant thinking deeply about a patient's life. Dr. Keith Ablow says it has shifted to ten- or fifteen-minute prescription visits...
Nancy M. Gordon, LCSW, is a grief expert, licensed therapist, consultant, #1 international best-selling author, speaker, and engaging podcast guest. Her new book, I Miss You Already: Preparing for the Unbearable Loss of Your Pet©, is a teaching memoir on anticipatory pet grief. Her private practice includes direct client coaching, speaking/podcasting, and a loss and grief training/consulting business with other animal care practitioners, especially veterinarians. Her mission is to make a difference in how loss and grief, especially pet loss, are perceived, understood, navigated, and supported through her unique methodologies. Topics covered in this episode: Nancy's journey through anticipatory pet loss and grief Honoring the pet loss journey Understanding anticipatory grief Disenfranchised grief in veterinary medicine Navigating emotional support for clients The role of Spirituality in grief Transforming grief into growth Links & Resources: Visit the Grow Beyond Grief website to learn more Pledge to the I Miss You Already Kickstarter project Find Nancy Gordon on Instagram or through Linktree Find Nancy Gordon on LinkedIn Watch the documentary, The Weight They Carry The House Call Vet Academy Resources: Download Dr. Eve's FREE House Call & Mobile Vet Biz Plan Find out about the House Call Vet Academy online CE course Learn more about Dr. Eve Harrison Learn more about the Concierge Vet Mastermind Get your FREE Concierge Vet Starter Kit mini course Learn more about SoulShine Space For Vets. Use discount code SHINE15 for 15% OFF SoulShine Space For Vets! (Available for a limited time only! Rules and restrictions apply.) Learn more about 1-to-1 coaching for current & prospective house call & mobile vets Get House Call Vet swag Learn more about the House Call & Mobile Vet Virtual Conference Register TODAY for the House Call & Mobile Vet Virtual Conference, February 7th-8th, 2026!!!!!! Here's a special gift from me as a huge thank you for being a part of our wonderful House Call Vet Cafe podcast community! ☕️ GET 20% OFF your Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee when you order through this link! 4Sig truly is my favorite!!! Enjoy it in good health, my friends! Music: In loving memory of Dr. Steve Weinberg. Intro and outro guitar music was written, performed, and recorded by house call veterinarian Dr. Steve Weinberg. Thank you to our sponsors! Chronos O3 Vets This podcast is also available in video on our House Call Vet Cafe YouTube channel
In this moving episode of Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Avik Chakraborty sits down with Dr. Steve Drabek, known as "The Comfortologist," to discuss how we can shift the conversation around chronic illness, pain, and end-of-life care. Drawing from over four decades as a family physician and hospice specialist—and his own cancer survival journey—Dr. Drabek shares the powerful lessons he's learned about dignity, compassion, and truly listening to patients' needs. This episode will help you see why avoiding conversations about mortality does more harm than good and how quality of life should be at the center of all care. About the Guest:Dr. Steve Drabek is a board-certified family physician, hospice and palliative care expert, cancer survivor, and author of The Comfortologist. With a career spanning more than 40 years, he brings unique insight into how compassion and conversation can transform patient care during life's most challenging moments. Key Takeaways: Why end-of-life planning matters for patients and families. How chronic pain and suffering are often misunderstood and mistreated in the medical system. The importance of shifting from a "curing at all costs" mindset to one centered on dignity and quality of life. How Dr. Drabek's personal journey with cancer shaped his medical career and perspective. Practical advice on advocating for yourself or loved ones in medical settings. Connect with Dr. Steve Drabek: Book: The Comfortologist (available at Barnes & Noble and Whitestone) Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik CHECK PODCAST SHOWS & BE A GUEST: Tune to all our 19 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind OUR SERVICES Business Podcast Management - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/corporatepodcasting/ Individual Podcast Management - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/Podcasting/ Share Your Story With World - https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/shareyourstory STAY TUNED AND FOLLOW US! Medium - https://medium.com/@contentbyavik YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@healthymindbyavik Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind Linkedin Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthymindbyavik LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/podhealthclub Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/Avikpodhealth/ SHARE YOUR REVIEW Google Review: https://www.podpage.com/bizblend/reviews/new/ Video Testimonial: https://famewall.healthymindbyavik.com/ #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness #HealthyMindByAvik #MentalHealthAwareness #StorytellingAsMedicine #PodcastLife #PersonalDevelopment #ConsciousLiving #GrowthMindset #MindfulnessMatters #VoicesOfUnity #InspirationDaily #podcast #podcasting #podcaster #podcastlife #podcastlove #podcastshow #podcastcommunity #newpodcast #podcastaddict #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastinglife #podrecommendation #wellnesspodcast #healthpodcast #mentalhealthpodcast #wellbeing #selfcare #mentalhealth #mindfulness #healthandwellness #wellnessjourney #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #healthandwellnesspodcast #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #viral #trending #tiktok #tiktokviral #explore #trendingvideo #youtube #motivation #inspiration #positivity #mindset #selflove #success
160 Transforming End-of-Life Care: The International Doula Life Movement with Anna Adams In episode 160 of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN, interviews Anna Adams, a seasoned professional with over 25 years in hospice and elder care. Anna, a certified end-of-life doula and founder of the International Doula Life Movement (IDLM), shares her journey of establishing IDLM, a global initiative aimed at training and supporting end-of-life doulas. The episode delves into the comprehensive educational programs IDLM offers, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and continuous learning. Anna explains how the organization integrates compassionate, ethical, and culturally sensitive care into the doula role, ensuring every individual receives dignity and respect in their final days. The discussion also highlights IDLM's approach to building relationships with hospices, the unique support system for doulas, and the profound impact of end-of-life education. Anna's insights offer listeners a deeper understanding of the vital role of doulas in hospice care. 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 00:28 Meet Your Host: Marie Betcher RN 00:46 Partnership with Cloud 9 Care 01:28 Interview with Anna Adams: Experience and Mission 03:16 Founding the International Doula Life Movement (IDLM) 05:49 IDLM's Training and Support Programs 10:59 The Role of a Doula in Hospice Care 17:43 Global Impact and Community Building 30:13 How to Connect with IDLM 31:41 Final Thoughts and Farewell https://www.internationaldoulalifemovement.com/ Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You) If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
Former nurse and certified death doula Kacie Gikonyo shares the story of how caregiving from a young age led her to a career focused on end-of-life care and support. After years working in long-term care and witnessing the challenges and heartbreak of death on the front lines — especially during the COVID-19 pandemic — Kacie chose to become a death doula. She now trains others worldwide through her online Death Doula School. Kacie opens up about the emotional toll of witnessing lonely, unplanned deaths, the gaps in the healthcare system's approach to dying, and the ways in which death doulas restore humanity and dignity to this final chapter. She also discusses the importance of grief education, advance directives, and compassionate presence for patients and their families.This conversation invites listeners into a vital, often overlooked part of the grief journey and offers hope that through intentional care and presence, death can be transformed into a more meaningful and peaceful experience for all.GIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.ourdeaddads.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ourdeaddadspod/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourdeaddadspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ourdeaddadspod Twitter / X: https://x.com/ourdeaddadspod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ourdeaddadspod/
Colton's getting real with Hospice Nurse Julie—ICU nurse turned hospice educator and unexpected TikTok trailblazer. She shares how working so closely with death has completely reshaped the way she lives: slower, more present, and with a deep sense of purpose.They talk about the beauty in end-of-life moments, the wild reality of visioning (yes, people really see loved ones before they pass), and how grief, sobriety, and stepping outside traditional nursing norms led Julie to a fuller, more authentic life. If you're craving perspective, permission to slow down, or just a little reminder of what actually matters—this one's for you.>>How Hospice Nurse Julie Made Death Go Viral—and Life More MeaningfulJump Ahead to Listen:[00:02:07] Starting hospice education online.[00:05:09] Living versus dying perspectives.[00:09:39] Reflection on life and death.[00:10:20] The importance of discussing death.[00:16:20] Love and connection at death.[00:19:12] Survival against all odds.[00:22:03] Hospice visions of deceased loved ones.[00:26:01] Connection through mediumship experience.[00:29:00] Near-death experiences and validation.[00:30:43] Importance of discussing dying process.Connect with Colton on social media:Instagram: @coltonlord17, @nursedaddiesTikTok: @nursedaddiesCheck out Julie's website and connect with her on social media:Instagram: @hospicenursejulieTikTok: @hospicenursejulieYouTube: @hospicenursejulieFor more information, full transcript and videos visit Nurse.org/podcastJoin our newsletter at nurse.org/joinInstagram: @nurse_orgTikTok: @nurse.orgFacebook: @nurse.orgYouTube: Nurse.org
At just 9 years old, Lori Lynne had a profound Near Death Experience (NDE) that would shape the path of her life. Today, she works to help others raise their energetic frequency - a process she sees as essential to healing, awakening, and living in alignment with the soul's purpose. Today, Lori Lynne is a Registered Nurse, Respiratory Therapist, energy worker, and childhood Near Death Experiencer. With over 20 years in critical care, medical research, and end-of-life support, Lori Lynne brings a powerful blend of clinical expertise and spiritual insight to our conversation For more about Lori Lynne, visit: Website: https://www.frequencynurse.com