BJ Miller on What Really Matters at the End of Life (#60)

BJ Miller is a physician, author, and leading voice in hospice and palliative medicine, widely known for his 2015 TED Talk, What Really Matters at the End of Life. In this deeply moving episode, BJ reflects on his own near-death experience at 19, how it shaped his understanding of life and mortality, and why rethinking the way we approach death is essential.

Speaking with clarity and compassion, BJ explores what it means to truly live while acknowledging our mortality, the lessons he’s learned from patients at the end of life, and his mission to reform the way society views dying.

This conversation is a rare gift: an honest, profound, and inspiring look into the universal truths that surface when we face the end — and what they teach us about how to live now.

Watch full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qSYhNsZep00

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  DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.

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