Podcasts about hospice care

What does it actually cost when a doctor writes a verbal order over the phone instead of seeing the patient? Scott Middleton has the receipts — and the answer is going to make you rethink everything about how American healthcare spends its money. In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Scott announces a landmark three-way merger bringing Your Health together with Transitional Care Professionals of America (TCPA) out of Georgia and Providence Care, a hospice organization in South Carolina. The combined organization will serve approximately 55,000 active patients — not patients on a list, but people being seen regularly — and Scott lays out exactly how he's going to run it. What you'll hear in this episode: Why Scott's family owning 80% of the merged company changes everything about how decisions get made — and who they get made for The difference between fee-for-service and value-based care, and why the ACO model means every unnecessary hospitalization literally comes out of Your Health's pocket How Your Health's risk-adjustment-based visit model (16 visits per year per risk point) was independently validated by a new government study — and why it works The three things Scott is asking every new employee to do in the first weeks: align with a nurse practitioner, track every minute of care management, and recruit like their livelihood depends on it — because it does Why Scott's new management philosophy is six words: "Keep them out of the hospital and see your damn patients" This isn't a corporate announcement. It's a playbook for how healthcare can actually work when operators run the company, providers see their patients, and every minute of care gets counted. www.YourHealth.Org

Lily and Sebastian McGrath's 2 1/2 year old son Bryson was first thought to have a Wilms Tumor before his Pediatric Cancer diagnosis was changed to Stage 4 Neuroblastoma in the early days of 2023. Lily and Sebastian had to put up with a number of more than questionable medical decisions during Bryson's fight and also had to endure the final days of Bryson's life who while in Hospice Care, was  promised 24 hour round the clock availability should they be needed and when they were needed the most, they were nowhere to be found. Lily also had to watch after Bryson passed away while one of the Hospice nurses attempted to rip off all of Bryson's dressings, instead of treating her son with the kid gloves that he more than deserved. 

Many people associate hospice care with the final days of life, but healthcare advocates say there are still major misconceptions surrounding both hospice and palliative care. On this episode of What's Next?, Kelly Clem of Hospice Buffalo and Palliative Care Buffalo explains the differences between the two forms of care and why early intervention can improve quality of life for patients living with chronic illness. She also discusses how palliative care helps manage symptoms at any stage of illness, while hospice focuses on comfort and support during the final months of life, including emotional and spiritual care for families.

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Hospice care is often structured around a 40-hour workweek—but patients and families need support 24/7. In this episode, we explore what happens during the “other 123 hours”: nights, weekends, and holidays when staffing is leaner, coverage areas expand, and each clinician carries greater responsibility—even as symptom crises and end-of-life transitions unfold. Through frontline insights, we examine the risks, resilience, and resourcefulness that define after-hours care—and discuss practical strategies to strengthen continuity, safety, and support across the full week.      Djenie Helne, DNP, FNP-BC, CRNP, ACHPN®  D'Jenie R. Helne, DNP, FNP-BC, ACHPN®, is a Doctor of Nursing Practice–prepared Family Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse with over 18 years of nursing experience and more than a decade in advanced practice. She currently serves as Director of Resource Nights & Weekend Nurse Practitioners at Chapters Health System, where she leads multi-state advanced practice teams delivering high-quality hospice and palliative care across Florida, DC, Maryland, and Virginia.  Dr. Helne is recognized for her expertise in clinical operations, regulatory readiness, telehealth innovation, and interdisciplinary care models. She has held leadership, hospitalist, and academic roles, including faculty appointments at Johns Hopkins University and Santa Fe College. Fluent in Haitian Kreyòl and proficient in Spanish, she is deeply committed to equitable, patient-centered care and building collaborative clinical environments that drive excellence in outcomes and operational performance.    Brett Snodgrass, DNP, FNP-C, ACHPN®, FAANP Dr. Brett Snodgrass has been a registered nurse for 28 years and a Family Nurse Practitioner for 18 years, practicing in multiple settings, including family practice, urgent care, emergency departments, administration, chronic pain and palliative medicine. She is currently the Operations Director for Palliative Medicine at Baptist Health Systems in Memphis, TN. She is board certified with the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She is also a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and an Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse. She completed a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at the University of Alabama – Huntsville. She is a nationally recognized nurse practitioner speaker and teacher. Brett is a chronic pain expert, working for more than 20 years with chronic pain and palliative patients in a variety of settings. She is honored to be the HPNA 2025 podcast host. She is married with two daughters, two son in laws, one grandson, and now an empty nest cat. She and her family are actively involved in their church and she is an avid reader.

What if doing the right thing for someone you love could cost you everything?In this gripping episode, Rich sits down with Rachel Waters, a caregiver who was shockingly charged with murder after her mother's hospice death. Her story reveals the frightening gaps in the system that every family should know about before facing end-of-life care.Rachel Waters is an advocate for caregiver protections and the founder of Marsha's Law, a proposed reform designed to prevent others from experiencing what she endured.In this episode, you'll learn: The hidden risks caregivers face in hospice situations  How a misunderstanding led to a murder charge  What Marsha's Law is and why it matters  Practical steps to protect yourself and your loved ones Resources:https://marshaslaw.orgRachel's story is emotional, eye-opening, and incredibly important.If this episode resonates with you, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. You never know who it might help.Send us Fan MailAmerican Auto Repair Sales & ServicesAmerican Auto Repair & Performance was founded on the basic idea that everyone deserves respect. It Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTokSponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCastSubscribe by Email

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

What if the reason healthcare teams burn out isn't the workload — it's the org chart? On this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, Jamie and Scott, break down the evolution of The Care Group Model — and why the instinct to build a "separate hospice team" is exactly the wrong move. Scott walks through what a true care team looks like when nurse practitioners, nurses, community health workers, social workers, chaplains, and triage nurses are orchestrated around the patient — not siloed around a diagnosis. Inside the episode: Why adding hospice to existing care groups beats building a parallel hospice division The new non-clinical "administrator" role Your Health is rolling out — and why every nurse needs one at their side Using DISC assessments to build teams that actually function (and why nurses aren't the same personality type) How mutual accountability and group-based bonuses fix the "don't bill too much CCM" problem Why matching a chaplain to a patient's faith tradition matters more than checking the box The $110 million Medicare savings story the industry still doesn't understand If you lead a clinical team, run an operation, or care about what healthcare could look like when it's built around people instead of paperwork — press play. www.YourHealth.Org

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

After receiving a lot of questions about hospice care, K-State Extension developed a four-page Fact Sheet, Understanding Hospice. K-State Extension specialist in adult development and aging, Erin Martinez, is one of the co-authors. She says it helps answer the questions people have about how hospice care works, including how to qualify for end-of-life care, finding a provider, common myths about hospice and how to talk to family about hospice care. Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to ksrenews@ksu.edu. K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan. 

What does it truly mean to care for someone at the end of life—and how can that journey be approached with compassion, dignity, and holistic understanding? In this deeply moving episode, Jean Keegan-Daly shares her experiences as a holistic and hospice nurse, offering a rare and heartfelt perspective on one of life's most profound transitions. Drawing from years of caring for patients and supporting families, Jean discusses how holistic care goes beyond physical treatment—addressing emotional, spiritual, and psychological needs during the final stages of life. She explores how presence, empathy, and connection can bring comfort not only to those who are passing, but also to the loved ones who walk alongside them. This episode opens a gentle and honest conversation about death, often considered one of life's most difficult subjects. What happens emotionally and spiritually as someone approaches the end of life? How can we better support those in hospice care? And how can understanding this process help us live more fully and compassionately in the present? Join us for a powerful and deeply human discussion that honors life, embraces the reality of its natural conclusion, and reminds us of the importance of care, connection, and dignity at every stage of the journey.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media

A man is dying — literally in his last hour, the death rattle audible — and the hospital team arrives to take him for a radiation treatment. His family had no idea. No one had told them. No one had started the conversation. This is not a rare exception. This is what happens when social services is treated as an afterthought. In this episode of The Disrupted Podcast, host Jamie Preston and Scott Middleton, Owner and Chief Disruption Officer of Your Health, go deep on one of the most overlooked levers in healthcare — social services. From the social determinants that drive healthcare costs more than healthcare itself, to the care team structures Your Health is building to close the gap, this is a candid, unfiltered look at what's broken, what's possible, and what it actually costs when we don't act. What you'll hear in this episode: Why social determinants of health — food access, medication literacy, housing instability, social isolation — are the real drivers of healthcare spending, and why most systems still ignore them The truth about advanced care planning: why it's quietly dropping, why every patient within two to three years of death needs that conversation, and the story of Janet Denino's cousin that makes the cost of silence impossible to ignore How the mental health stigma is shifting generationally — and how telehealth, AI-assisted tools, and a smarter therapy cadence are changing who actually gets support The billing math behind 280,000 possible care management hours that were built down to 110 — and why that gap isn't just a business problem, it's a human one What it actually takes to build a social services program that works: the right roles, the right ratios, and why getting out to see patients is non-negotiable The system won't fix itself. But the people in it can. This episode shows you how. www.YourHealth.Org

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

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Most people believe hospice means that medical professionals will come in and take care of everything when someone is dying. But the reality is very different. In this episode, Suzanne B. O'Brien RN — former hospice and oncology nurse who has cared for more than 1,000 patients at the end of life — reveals the number one problem with hospice care today and why so many families feel overwhelmed during one of the most important moments of life. The truth may surprise you. Hospice was designed to provide comfort, guidance, and medical oversight, but the majority of hands-on care actually falls to family members at home.  In fact, families often find themselves responsible for tasks such as: administering medications managing symptoms bathing and repositioning their loved one monitoring breathing and physical changes All while navigating grief, exhaustion, and fear. Many families enter hospice believing full-time care will be provided — only to discover that nurses and hospice staff may visit periodically while loved ones provide most of the daily care. This isn't a failure of hospice. It's a missing piece of education. The Real Problem Over the past 100 years, death has become increasingly medicalized. Historically, families knew how to care for loved ones at the end of life. These sacred caregiving skills were passed down from generation to generation. But as death moved into hospitals and institutions, those skills quietly disappeared. Now hospice has brought death back into the home — but the knowledge never returned with it. As a result, families are often asked to do one of the most profound acts of care in life without ever being taught how. The Solution The answer isn't more medicalization. The answer is education before crisis. For the past 16 years, the Doulagivers Institute has been working to restore the lost skills of end-of-life care through education and community training. To date: 400,000 people have been trained Participants come from over 39 countries The training is offered free each month The mission is simple: End-of-life care is a human right. Every family deserves to know how to care for their loved one with confidence, dignity, and peace. What You'll Learn in This Episode The #1 misunderstanding about hospice care Why families often feel unprepared during the dying process The historical reason we lost end-of-life caregiving skills Why hospice alone cannot meet the needs of families The simple solution that can transform end-of-life care worldwide About Suzanne B. O'Brien RN Suzanne B. O'Brien is a former hospice and oncology nurse who has cared for over 1,000 patients at the end of life. She is the founder of the Doulagivers Institute and author of the international bestseller The Good Death: A Guide for Supporting Your Loved One Through the End of Life. Her mission is to ensure that every family in the world has access to the knowledge and tools needed to support a peaceful and sacred end-of-life experience. Learn the Skills Before You Need Them Join the free Doulagivers Level 1 End-of-Life Doula Training, attended by hundreds of thousands of people around the world.  These are the sacred caregiving skills every family deserves to know.

179 Hospice Is About Living: Honest Conversations, Palliative vs. Hospice, and Supporting Nurses with Gina Harris MSN, MSQT Host Marie Betcher, a registered nurse and former hospice nurse, interviews Gina Harris MSN, MSQT, Chief Clinical Officer at Marisol Health in South Carolina, about hospice education and reducing fear around end-of-life care. Gina shares her career path from mortgage banking to 25 years in nursing, including critical care leadership and work as a CMS-certified surveyor, and explains how hospice nursing is emotionally demanding and often undervalued. The conversation centers on the need for honest communication about dying, including a story of a woman with recurring cancer who pursued a third major surgery before choosing hospice and dying days later, highlighting "chasing normal" and the limits of prognostic estimates. Gina describes hospice as support for living with comfort and dignity, outlines palliative care versus hospice, and explains how Marisol trains staff through in-services, role playing, interdisciplinary visits, and certification. 00:00 Welcome and Disclaimer 00:29 Meet Host Marie 00:45 Introducing Gina Harris MSN, MSQT 02:11 Gina's Nursing Journey 04:09 Why Hospice Matters 06:05 Coaching Nurses to Talk 08:29 Chasing Normal Story 13:42 Hard Truths and Hospice 18:21 Hospice Is About Living 20:23 Palliative vs Hospice Care 23:32 Training Staff for Truth 26:44 Hospice as a Choice 28:15 Signing Up and Opting Out 29:42 Closing Thanks and Location 30:21 Final Wrap Up   https://mirasolhealth.org/   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.

Welcome to our show. Today, we're delving into a deeply important, yet often challenging, subject: hospice care and the intricate world of end-of-life decision-making. These are conversations many understandably shy away from, but as you'll hear, they are profoundly necessary, and ideally, they should take place long before a critical health crisis ever arises. We are incredibly fortunate to have a true expert guide us through this discussion: my sister, Celeste Galati. Celeste is an experienced nurse who specializes in hospice care, and she joins us to illuminate her many years of dedicated work with patients and their families. Throughout this episode, Celeste will share invaluable insights and practical strategies for addressing the complex needs of individuals facing a terminal illness, and just as importantly, supporting the families who are suffering alongside them. We'll explore what exactly hospice care and end-of-life care truly entail, clearly define the distinctions between palliative care and hospice, and dismantle some prevalent misunderstandings surrounding these crucial topics. Get ready for an honest, compassionate, and incredibly informative conversation that underscores why these difficult discussions, though challenging, are absolutely essential to have well in advance. #hospice #palliativecare #endoflife Where to find Dr. Joe Galati and his team:Dr. Galati's newsletter sign-upMedical Practice: Liver Specialists of TexasDr. Galati's Book Site: Eating Yourself SickFacebook: Dr. Joe GalatiDr. Galati's YouTube ChannelPlease send feedback and suggestion. You can message me here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pancreatic cancer is often called a 'silent' disease because its early signs are so easy to miss. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the diagnosis—from the complex Whipple procedure to hospice care—to help families move from fear toward understanding. https://bit.ly/4birjzsIn this episode, you will learn: What the pancreas actually does (enzymes, insulin, and glucagon).The difference between modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. What a "pancreaticoduodenectomy" (Whipple procedure) involves and a brief history of the procedure.  How hospice provides wraparound support to manage metastasis, ascites, and pain, ensuring comfort and dignity in the final stages Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: Roasted Jalapeño Dip, and Mel Brooks Documentary03:14 - Jim Henson's Legacy - It's Not Easy Bein' Green06:33 - Pancreatic Cancer Statistics & The Pancreas Defined06:33 - Cancer Risk Factors: Genetics vs. Lifestyle 09:42 - The Whipple Procedure Explained 16:42 - Late-Stage Realities & Hospice Support29:19 - A Poem Honoring Alex Pretti by National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman 30:56 - OutroRelated Episodes Mentioned:S5E45: Why Does Cancer Exist?S4E26: How Pain Medications for Cancer Improve Quality of LifeS2E29: How to Decide When It is Time for HospiceS4E43: The Carters – Living Their Best Life to the End #PancreaticCancer #CancerAwareness #HospiceCare #WhippleProcedure #EndOfLife #EveryoneDiesPodcast #JimHensonSupport the showConnect with Us: Email our Host: mail@every1dies.org Website: https://every1dies.org: Find show notes, links and expanded resources Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Welcome to Classic Skeptic Metaphysicians! We're re-releasing some of our back catalog so that these gems can be re-discovered!This week: Should We Fear Death? An Honest Conversation with Hospice Nurse Julie McFaddenDeath. It's the one certainty we all share...and the one topic most of us avoid like the plague. For years, Will openly admits his biggest fear was dying. Not just the process… but the terrifying possibility of nothingness afterward. And even after years of exploring consciousness, spirituality, and Near-Death Experiences on this show, that old panic still sneaks in from time to time. So this week, we go straight to the source. We sit down with Hospice Nurse Julie McFadden, a former ICU nurse turned hospice advocate who has witnessed hundreds of deaths, and calls the experience not tragic… but beautiful. Yes. Beautiful. Julie pulls back the curtain on what really happens as the body shuts down, what families often misunderstand about the dying process, and why so many people report seeing deceased loved ones in the final weeks of life. We cover:What actually happens to the body in the final months, weeks, and hoursWhy dying does not automatically mean sufferingThe science behind decreased appetite, increased sleep, and metabolic shiftsWhat “visioning” is, and why it happens to so many peopleWhether atheists experience end-of-life visions tooThe truth behind the “6 ounces of the soul” mythWhat it feels like to be in the room when someone takes their final breathWhy education about death reduces fearAnd the ultimate question: Is there life after death?Julie speaks candidly about the mysterious, metaphysical phenomena she's witnessed, and the sacred stillness that seems to fill a room when someone transitions. This conversation may not give you absolute certainty about what lies beyond… But it may radically change how you think about the journey getting there. If you've ever feared the process of dying… If you've ever sat beside a loved one and wondered if they were suffering… Or if you're simply curious about what really happens when we take our last breath… This episode might bring you more peace than you expect.Why This Episode Matters We spend so much time preparing for life. Almost none preparing for death. And yet, according to someone who sees it daily, the body knows exactly what to do. The real fear may not be death itself…But our misunderstanding of it. Listen in. You may walk away feeling lighter.The Skeptic Metaphysicians is a spiritual awakening podcast for open-minded thinkers who refuse to check their critical thinking at the door. Each episode explores consciousness expansion, enlightenment, soul purpose, and soul growth through honest, grounded conversation with leading voices in metaphysics, psychic phenomenon, quantum healing, and beyond. We dive deep into spiritual awakening, ascension, alignment, and the awakening process without the dogma. From mediumship and spirit guides to Arcturian contact, astrology, and the subconscious mind, we explore it all with curiosity, humor, and zero guru worship. Whether you're in the middle of your own awakening, questioning reality, or just spiritually curious, this is the podcast for seekers and skeptics alike.Subscribe, Rate & Review!If you found this episode enlightening, mind-expanding, or even just thought-provoking (see what we did there?), please take a moment to rate and review us. Your feedback helps us bring more transformative guests and topics your way!Connect with Us: 

Why baptize children? Is there still time to repent after death? Why prey to Mary? Join us for this Mailbag edition of Open Line Monday with Fr. John Trigilio. (Originally aired on 4/28/25)

Hospice care is one of the most misunderstood parts of end-of-life support. And that misunderstanding often keeps people from getting the comfort, care, and dignity they deserve.In this episode I'm joined by members of the team from Caring House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, holistic hospice care and end-of-life support. We talk honestly about what hospice care actually is (and what it is not), when it's appropriate, and how compassionate care can transform the final chapter of life for both patients and their loved ones.We also explore how hospice isn't about “giving up,” but about shifting the focus from cure to comfort, from fear to presence, and from doing everything to doing what truly matters.Whether you're caring for someone with a terminal illness, navigating difficult decisions, or simply want to be better informed before a crisis hits, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and a whole lot of humanity.https://www.yourcaringhouse.org/https://www.yourcaringhouse.org/support-ushttps://www.yourcaringhouse.org/coffee-event-2026Support me on Patreon! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/nikkithedeathdoula⁠You can find me here:https://linktr.ee/nikkithedeathdoulaGet merch! https://good-grief-podcast.printify.me/ Music:https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-monday

It usually starts with a question no one feels ready to ask. If care cannot continue at home, what happens next? Madison Wood-Gonzalez shares what happens next and how Morning Light steps in for people who have nowhere else to go. She explains who qualifies for a hospice home, what daily life looks like inside the house, and how residents are welcomed with dignity.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

174  Facing the Unspoken: Embracing End of Life Conversations  In this episode of 'Hospice Explained,' host Marie Betcher RN , a former hospice nurse with a long nursing experience, emphasizes the significance of addressing end-of-life issues early. She discusses the common problem of late referrals to palliative and hospice care and highlights the need for healthcare providers to facilitate honest, fact-based conversations with patients. This approach allows patients to make informed choices, spend quality time with loved ones, and manage their affairs properly. Marie encourages providers to make these discussions a cooperative dialogue, providing resources and advice to help patients prepare for the end of life. She also invites listeners to share their stories and questions. 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 00:28 Meet Your Host: Marie Betcher RN 00:41 Addressing Late Referrals in Hospice Care 01:08 The Importance of dificult Conversations 01:47 Training Gaps in Medical Education 02:09 Empowering Patients with Honest Conversations 02:24 Practical Steps for End-of-Life Planning 03:42 The Role of Healthcare Providers 04:21 Creating a Dialogue, Not a Debate 05:04 Encouraging Hospice Consideration 05:46 Conclusion and Contact Information   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.

Send us a textIn Part Two of Protecting Patients at the End of Life: Why CON Still Matters, host Chris Comeaux continues the conversation with two of the nation's most respected hospice policy leaders—Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association, and Tim Rogers, President & CEO of the Association for Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina.This episode moves beyond regulatory theory and into the real-world patient and family experience—especially in states without hospice Certificate of Need (CON) laws. Drawing on decades of leadership, personal stories of loved ones in hospice, and data-informed insights, Paul and Tim explore what families actually face when hospice markets are oversaturated, fragmented, or poorly regulated.The conversation examines how too many choices can overwhelm families, how small, unsustainable hospice programs can dilute quality, and how fraud and inappropriate enrollments disproportionately affect vulnerable populations—often stripping patients of access to Medicare benefits when they need them most.Listeners also gain a deeper understanding of how Florida and North Carolina use CON to balance:Access to hospice careProgram sustainability and scaleRural and underserved community coverageInpatient hospice availabilityProtection against bad actorsThe episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on what principles—not politics—should guide states that are reconsidering or redesigning hospice CON laws today.This is an essential conversation for healthcare leaders, policymakers, hospice executives, board members, and anyone committed to protecting quality end-of-life care.Guest:Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care AssociationTim Rogers, President & CEO of the Association for Home & Hospice Care of North CarolinaHost:Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOSThe Anatomy of Leadership podcast explores the art and science of leadership through candid, insightful conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from a variety of industries. Hosted by Chris Comeaux, each episode dives into the mindsets, habits, and strategies that empower leaders to thrive in complex, fast-changing environments. With topics ranging from organizational culture and emotional intelligence to navigating disruption and inspiring teams, the show blends real-world stories with practical takeaways. The goal is simple yet ambitious: to equip leaders at every level with the tools, perspectives, and inspiration they need to lead with vision, empathy, and impact. https://www.teleioscn.org/anatomy-of-leadership

In Part Two of Protecting Patients at the End of Life: Why CON Still Matters, host Chris Comeaux continues the conversation with two of the nation's most respected hospice policy leaders—Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association, and Tim Rogers, President & CEO of the Association for Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina.This episode moves beyond regulatory theory and into the real-world patient and family experience—especially in states without hospice Certificate of Need (CON) laws. Drawing on decades of leadership, personal stories of loved ones in hospice, and data-informed insights, Paul and Tim explore what families actually face when hospice markets are oversaturated, fragmented, or poorly regulated.The conversation examines how too many choices can overwhelm families, how small, unsustainable hospice programs can dilute quality, and how fraud and inappropriate enrollments disproportionately affect vulnerable populations—often stripping patients of access to Medicare benefits when they need them most.Listeners also gain a deeper understanding of how Florida and North Carolina use CON to balance:Access to hospice careProgram sustainability and scaleRural and underserved community coverageInpatient hospice availabilityProtection against bad actorsThe episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on what principles—not politics—should guide states that are reconsidering or redesigning hospice CON laws today.This is an essential conversation for healthcare leaders, policymakers, hospice executives, board members, and anyone committed to protecting quality end-of-life care.Guest:Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care AssociationTim Rogers, President & CEO of the Association for Home & Hospice Care of North CarolinaHost:Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOSTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

Send us a textCertificate of Need (CON) laws are among the most debated—and misunderstood—regulatory frameworks in healthcare. In this timely Part One conversation, host Chris Comeaux is joined by two of the most respected voices in hospice policy and advocacy: Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association, and Tim Rogers, President & CEO of the Association for Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina.Together, they unpack why CON laws were originally created, what problems they were designed to solve, and why hospice continues to raise unique concerns that set it apart from other healthcare services. Drawing on decades of leadership and real-world experience, Paul and Tim explain why hospice does not function like a traditional free market—highlighting fixed reimbursement rates, demographic-driven demand, and the responsibility to serve entire communities, including rural and complex patient populations.This episode explores what actually happens in states without hospice CON: oversaturation in urban markets, reduced access in rural areas, fragmented care, and increased vulnerability to fraud and abuse. The discussion challenges common assumptions about competition and access, using data, policy insight, and firsthand examples to illustrate the unintended consequences of deregulation.Part One lays the foundation for a deeper conversation about quality, equity, and patient protection at the end of life—and why thoughtful oversight still matters in preserving the integrity of the hospice benefit.

Protecting Patients at the End of Life: Why CON Still Matters / Part ONECertificate of Need (CON) laws are among the most debated—and misunderstood—regulatory frameworks in healthcare. In this timely Part One conversation, host Chris Comeaux is joined by two of the most respected voices in hospice policy and advocacy: Paul A. Ledford, President & CEO of the Florida Hospice & Palliative Care Association, and Tim Rogers, President & CEO of the Association for Home & Hospice Care of North Carolina.Together, they unpack why CON laws were originally created, what problems they were designed to solve, and why hospice continues to raise unique concerns that set it apart from other healthcare services. Drawing on decades of leadership and real-world experience, Paul and Tim explain why hospice does not function like a traditional free market—highlighting fixed reimbursement rates, demographic-driven demand, and the responsibility to serve entire communities, including rural and complex patient populations.This episode explores what actually happens in states without hospice CON: oversaturation in urban markets, reduced access in rural areas, fragmented care, and increased vulnerability to fraud and abuse. The discussion challenges common assumptions about competition and access, using data, policy insight, and firsthand examples to illustrate the unintended consequences of deregulation.Part One lays the foundation for a deeper conversation about quality, equity, and patient protection at the end of life—and why thoughtful oversight still matters in preserving the integrity of the hospice benefit.

In this heartwarming episode of The Golden Gang podcast, Phil Rizzo, Business Office Director at Arbor Terrace Mount Laurel, sits down with Jackie Christmas from Vitality Hospice. Jackie, a passionate and dedicated hospice care professional, shares her journey of providing compassionate end-of-life care and the deep connections she's formed with the residents at Arbor Terrace. Join us as we explore the rewarding and often misunderstood world of hospice care, the importance of teamwork, and how Vitality Hospice makes a difference in the lives of families and residents!

Understanding End-of-Life Decisions: The Importance of Hospice Education In this episode of 'Hospice Explained,' host Marie Betcher, a registered nurse and former hospice nurse, shares a poignant story about educating a family on the realities of CPR within hospice care. Through a real-life example, Marie emphasizes the importance of understanding hospice care and the end-of-life process. The episode highlights the need for proper communication and realistic expectations regarding life-saving measures like CPR. Marie also encourages listeners to seek further information from resources like polst.org and invites individuals with personal stories or expertise to join the podcast for future episodes. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:29 Host Introduction and Purpose 00:45 A Personal Story: Challenges with CPR 02:15 Understanding CPR in Hospice Care 03:24 The Importance of Saying Goodbye 04:39 Resources and Final Thoughts POLST.ORG   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)  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.

168 Breaking Taboos: Talking About Death with Gabby Jimenez  In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN, a registered nurse and former hospice nurse, interviews Gabrielle Jimenez, a hospice and palliative care nurse, end-of-life doula, grief educator, and author. Gabby shares her journey from commercial real estate to nursing, witnessing nearly 2000 last breaths, and discusses the importance of human-centered care in hospice. The episode also covers the challenges and rewards of starting a nursing career later in life, the need for earlier hospice care, and supporting parents losing a child. Highlighting Gabby's intention to create a safe place through her Facebook community 'The Hospice Heart,' this episode emphasizes the critical role of compassion and education in end-of-life care. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:46 Meet Gabrielle Jimenez: Hospice Nurse and Doula 02:01 Gabrielle's Journey to Hospice Care 10:12 The Role of a Doula in End-of-Life Care 17:01 Challenges and Changes in Hospice Care 21:38 The Importance of Discussing Death and Dying 24:04 Celebrating Life and Death in New Orleans 24:37 Organizing Funeral Food 25:51 A Funny Story About My Dad's Funeral 27:20 Reflecting on My Mother's Death 29:13 Dealing with Family Drama During Funerals 32:12 Advice for Handling Grief and Family Dynamics 39:08 Supporting Parents Losing a Child 43:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  https://www.thehospiceheart.net/   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)  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.

 This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You're an institution. Time to invest like one.____________What if the search for your “one true purpose” is actually making you miserable and the real path to a regret-free life is simpler than you think?In this insightful conversation, Dr. Bradley Block reconnects with returning guest Dr. Jordan Grumet to explore the ideas in his new book, The Purpose Code. Building on his first book Taking Stock, Jordan tackles the question he's asked most: “How do I actually find purpose?” He breaks down why we get purpose wrong, introduces Big P vs. little p purpose, and shares why focusing on process over outcome creates abundance, community, and lasting happiness. From hospice stories to personal examples like podcasting and baseball cards, Jordan shows physicians how to build purpose around what truly fills them up, without needing to quit medicine or chase scarcity-driven goals.If you've ever felt purpose anxiety or wondered whether being a doctor is “enough,” this episode offers a practical, liberating framework to live intentionally and regret-free.Three Actionable Takeaways:Distinguish Big P from little p purpose: Stop chasing scarce, audacious goals (e.g., curing cancer, becoming a billionaire) that breed anxiety and failure. Instead, identify activities where you love the process itself regardless of outcome or pay. Ask: “Would I do this even if no one paid me or noticed?” These abundant little p purposes bring joy, flow, and surprisingly greater impact.Build purpose now, not after financial milestones: Don't wait for financial independence to pursue what lights you up. Use the 5–6 hours of daily free time most people have to fill time slots with purposeful activities. At work, maximize what you enjoy (addition), minimize what you loathe (subtraction), or switch roles or employers to increase joy without blowing up your finances.Pair purpose with meaning for true happiness: Purpose (present/future actions that fill you up) needs meaning, a heroic narrative of your past, to thrive. Reframe past struggles as a hero's journey “I am enough” to quiet victim stories that sabotage new purposeful pursuits. Strong relationships and community naturally flow from living your little p purpose, which research shows is the biggest predictor of health and longevity.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine  covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Dr. Jordan Grumet, known as Doc G, is an associate medical director at Unity Hospice, a Plutus award-winning podcaster for Earn & Invest, and a prominent voice in the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) community. With a background in internal medicine and a shift to hospice care, he authored Taking Stock: A Hospice Doctor's Advice on Financial Independence, Building Wealth, and Living a Regret-Free Life, which reshaped how people align money with values. His second book, The Purpose Code (releasing January 7, 2025), explores creating purpose through process rather than goals, drawing from his hospice insights and personal journey to inspire a fulfilling life.LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jordan-grumet-38a506179 Website: https://jordangrumet.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ng/podcast/earn-invest/id1440355498About the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at brad@physiciansguidetodoctoring.com  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let's grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

167 Exploring Compassionate Hospice Care with Max Labutin In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN, a former hospice nurse, interviews Max Labutin, founder of Maximum Care Hospice Incorporated. Max shares his journey into hospice care, inspired by personal loss and a calling to provide compassionate, family-centered hospice services. He discusses his company's commitment to high-quality care regardless of patients' socioeconomic backgrounds and highlights the importance of planning ahead for end-of-life care. Max also touches on the spiritual and emotional aspects of hospice, sharing heartwarming stories and insights on how to support families through this profound phase of life. The episode emphasizes the need for education and preparedness to ensure the best possible care for loved ones. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:45 Meet Max Labutin: Founder of Maximum Care Hospice 02:50 Max's Journey into Hospice Care 05:12 The Importance of Choosing the Right Hospice 07:50 Special Services and Staff at Maximum Care Hospice 13:43 Heartwarming Stories and Spiritual Insights 16:19 Family Involvement and Personal Reflections 17:47 Planning Ahead for Hospice Care 27:28 Cultural Perspectives on Death and Hospice 28:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://www.maximumcarehospice.com/ 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)  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.

In Episode 100, Jamie and Matt reflect on a year that fundamentally reshaped how Matt experiences healthcare—as both a patient and a caregiver. Matt shares an update on his active surveillance prostate cancer journey, including lifestyle changes, monitoring, and learning to live with uncertainty.The conversation expands beyond Matt's diagnosis to include the realities of caregiving: navigating a father's dementia and hospice journey, processing anticipatory grief and loss, supporting a teenage daughter through surgery, and helping a mother recover after a stroke. Matt speaks candidly about caregiver burnout, moments of emotional paralysis, and the importance of asking for help.Together, Jamie and Matt explore how grief lingers, how recovery often proves harder than the crisis itself, and why healthcare must focus on what happens after discharge. Episode 100 closes with a powerful reminder: it's okay not to be okay—but it's not okay to face it alone.

Some people have wonderful experiences with hospice, and other people say the experience was terrible. What's the difference?If your loved one is sick enough to need hospice, it's a highly stressful time for your whole family. Whether your loved one has cancer, dementia, ALS, COPD or another serious illness, making the decision for when to request hospice care is tough.Once you've made the decision to start hospice, how do you make sure that your loved one and your family get the very best hospice care? In this episode we discuss the 10 ways to be sure you get the very best hospice care.Caring for you as you care for them.Dr. Deliahttps://doctordelia.comBe sure to subscribe to The Integrative Palliative Podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-integrative-palliative-podcast/id1617730043Coping Courageously: A Heart-Centered Guide for Navigating a Loved One's Illness Without Losing Yourself is available here: www.copingcourageously.com Please review this podcast wherever you listen and forward your favorite episode to a friend! And be sure to subscribe!Sign up to stay connected and learn about upcoming programs:https://trainings.integrativepalliative.com/IPI-stay-in-touchI'm thrilled to be listed in Feedspot's top 15 palliative podcasts!https://blog.feedspot.com/palliative_care_podcasts/

Key Takeaways1. Hospice isn't about giving up — it's about shifting the goal from cure to comfort.Most misconceptions stem from fear or lack of education. Hospice focuses on maximizing quality of life, not accelerating end of life.2. Timing matters. Early conversations lead to better experiences.Families often wait until crisis mode. Subtle changes — fatigue, weight loss, repeated hospitalizations, shifting goals — are early signs to explore hospice.3. There is an entire team behind every patient and family.Chaplains, social workers, nurses, CNAs, and physicians work together to support medical, emotional, spiritual, and logistical needs.4. Quality of life is unique to each patient.It may mean one last trip, freedom from pain, or simply being able to rest without fear. Hospice focuses on what matters most.5. Families gain relief, clarity, and peace knowing they're not alone.Hospice offers 24/7 support, education, and guidance — reducing anxiety and preventing unnecessary hospital visits.6. Eligibility is flexible and individualized.A prognosis of six months or less is a guideline, not an expiration date. A hospice RN and medical director work together to determine appropriateness based on a full clinical picture.7. Hospice allows sacred, human moments to happen.Final conversations, reconciliation, peaceful transitions — hospice creates space for these moments rather than crisis-driven chaos.8. Education is the antidote to fear.Knowledge gives families confidence, reduces guilt, and empowers them to make aligned decisions for their loved ones. www.YourHealth.Org

In this episode of Home Health Revealed, hosts Hannah Vale and Joe Russell sit down with Lindsay Williams, founder of Four Pillars Hospice in Texas, for a truly powerful conversation on what it truly takes to open and grow a hospice agency today.  Lindsay shares her journey launching a hospice while navigating the realities of purchasing a location, serving rural communities across long distances, and building a team capable of wearing multiple hats. From salaries clinicians who balance care delivery with outreach, to the day to day decisions that shape a new agency's identity, Lindsay pulls back the curtain on the challenges and opportunities of building something meaningful.  This episode explores "the power of the pivot" when regulations, geography and resources don't align, how innovative staffing models can create stability and continuity, lessons learned from starting a hospice in rural Texas (and renting a jet to get from place to place). More than anything, this is a lesson about how flexibility, grit, and mission-driven leadership shape success.  Chapters (00:00:02) - Home Health Revealed(00:00:32) - An Ohioan on the Issues(00:01:16) - Startup Four Pillars Hospice(00:04:00) - Hospice Care for Rural Communities(00:06:03) - Hospice: Utilizing the Community(00:07:15) - Hospice Care as a Rural Provider(00:12:48) - How Hospice Care is Collaborating(00:13:22) - Hospice CEO on Next Step(00:14:51) - Wonders of the World interview

 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

A Pawsitive Journey: Helping Children Understand Hospice In episode 163 of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN, a former hospice nurse, welcomes back Jean Anne Menna, a certified hospice and palliative nurse. Jean Anne discusses her new children's book, 'A PAWsitive Journey: Duke and Houdini Learn about Hospice Care,' which aims to help children understand hospice care with empathy and hope. The episode also touches on Jean Anne's first book, 'Go With Grace,' and her work as a board member for End of Life Choices, New York. The discussion highlights the importance of making end-of-life care less intimidating for children and ensuring pets of hospice patients find new homes. The episode concludes with plans for future collaboration and resources for educating the community about hospice care. 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 00:29 Welcome and Episode Introduction 00:46 Guest Introduction: Jean Anne Menna 02:15 Jean Anne's Books and Motivation 04:29 Discussing Hospice Care for Children 04:56 End of Life Choices and Community Education 05:56 Personal Stories and Experiences 09:07 Creating and Publishing the Books 14:54 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 17:53 Conclusion and Call to Action The Books are Both On Amazon   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.

This episode features interviews with representatives from three non-profit organizations in this year's Share 'Cuz You Care campaign. Each rep shares a moving story about their connection with the organization and shines light on the important work they do within the NH community. Vote now to select which non-profit organization will receive the top donation of $1,000 from Triangle CU. (link below). Barbara Lafrance - Home Health and Hospice Care: https://hhhc.org/ Shaun Nelson - Nashua PAL: https://nashuapal.com/ Randy Stevens - Hope Recovery: https://recoverynh.org/ Learn more about the campaign and cast your vote at: https://triangleuniversity.org/share-cuz-you-care-2025/ Campaign runs until Thursday, December 4th, 2025. Remember to vote daily to increase the chances for your organization of choice to win!

This TCNtalk episode explores the multifaceted role of thrift stores in hospice care, highlighting their impact on community engagement, grief support, and economic sustainability. Our guests, Lin Sue Flood, Director of Community Engagement at Hospice of the Valley, and Mark Cohen,  retired Editor & Publisher of Hospice News Today, and Principal, Cohen-Fyfe Communications, discuss how thrift stores serve as vital assets for hospices, providing not only financial support but also fostering community connections and environmental sustainability. They reveal how these stores generate essential financial support, strengthen community ties, provide meaningful volunteer opportunities, and even offer gentle pathways through grief. You'll hear how mission-aligned messaging, environmental stewardship, and a new generation of thrift-loving shoppers are reshaping the future of hospice support.Lin Sue and Mark share how purposeful messaging can ignite the interest of younger generations, who aren't just hunting for treasures— they're seeking ways to make their shopping choices count for something bigger.It's an inspiring look at how everyday purchases can make an extraordinary impact.  Join us — this is truly a conversation worth hearing.Guest:Lin Sue Flood, Director of Community Engagement at Hospice of the Valley Mark Cohen, retired Editor & Publisher of Hospice News Today, and Principal, Cohen-Fyfe CommunicationsHost:Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOShttps://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/the-hidden-value-of-thrift-stores-in-hospice-careTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. Join A Cure in Sight, an ocular melanoma foundation, for an insightful conversation with Suzanne O'Brien, RN, on the important distinctions between palliative care and hospice care. In this episode, Suzanne sheds light on the significant gaps in end-of-life education that leave many families overwhelmed and unsupported during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. As the Founder & CEO of Doulagivers Institute, Suzanne B. O'Brien has dedicated her life to increasing access to high-quality end-of-life education and compassionate care. Drawing from her firsthand experience at the bedside of more than 1,000 patients as a hospice nurse and palliative care professional, she has created free trainings and resources to empower both caregivers and practitioners worldwide. https://doulagivers.com/

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.

In this episode, Lindsay Myers, MBA, MPH, Vice President of Revenue Cycle and HIM at Chapters Health System, discusses how her organization is scaling operations, leveraging automation, and investing in people to support rapid growth and long-term financial stability across its nationwide hospice and value-based care network.

We sit down with the NYS Department of Health Commissioner James McDonald to discuss the state's hospice and palliative care system and why utilization is so low. POLITICO's Nick Reisman joins us to discuss the results of the NYC mayoral race.    Learn More: nynow.org

Top News Stories October 2025In this episode of TCNtalks, Chris Comeaux and Cordt Kassner discuss the top news stories of October, focusing on AI in healthcare, innovations in hospice care, and the impact of personal experiences on healthcare practices.  They explore the ethical implications of AI surrogates in life-or-death decisions, the importance of equitable access to hospice care, and the role of technology in improving care delivery. The conversation also highlights the significance of personal stories in shaping healthcare perspectives and the ongoing challenges in the hospice industry.Co-host:Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today & CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsHost:Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOSTeleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast

In this episode: Barry Windham says his former tag team partner Mike Rotunda aka IRS is in hospice care, WWE cryptic teaser videos revealed as the official trailer for WrestleMania 42, and WWE SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis said to be “far from done” as a professional wrestlerKerr County Flood Relief Fund: https://cftexashillcountry.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=4201Support Katie: https://gofund.me/cb2cdcb5Support Eastern Kentucky: https://secure.kentucky.gov/formservices/Finance/stormreliefAmerican Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/donate/cm/wlky32-pub.html/The Dream Center: https://www.ekdc.info/donateKCTCS Disaster Relief: https://kctcs.edu/disasterrelief.aspxUniversity of Kentucky Flood Relief: https://philanthropy.uky.edu/kentuckyfloodreliefIf you like what you hear on the podcast, consider helping me out a little bit financially at: https://www.patreon.com/jamminjon

Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.Health Affairs' Rob Lott interviews Alexander Soltoff of Emory University about his recent paper exploring how private equity-owned hospices reported higher profits and lower patient care spending when compared to other ownership models.Order the October 2025 issue of Health Affairs.Currently, more than 70 percent of our content is freely available - and we'd like to keep it that way. With your support, we can continue to keep our digital publication Forefront and podcast Subscribe to UnitedHealthcare's Community & State newsletter.

My two guests this week are administrators of Caring House, a non-profit residence for hospice patients in Torrance, California. David Zartman is the Executive Director of Caring House having previously been a successful entrepreneur. Joanna Franco is the Director of Operations with many years of experience as both a caregiver and a residential care coordinator… Continue reading Ep. 521 Caring House: A Residence for Hospice Care with David Zartman and Joanna Franco

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/