Seeing Death Clearly

Send us a textIn this episode of 'Seeing Death Clearly,' host Jill McClennen talks with Christian Millward, a mother of six from Idaho, about her journey with grief and spirit communication. Christian shares how the deaths of her mother and seven-week-old daughter, Indi, led her to discover her spiritual connection and create the Indie Star Cards, a tool to help people communicate with loved ones who have passed away. They discuss emotional awareness, generational trauma, and the importance of having an exit strategy for antidepressant use during pregnancy. Kristen also emphasizes the importance of normalizing discussions about death and spirit communication to facilitate the healing process.00:00 Introduction to Spirit Communication00:40 Meet Our Guest: Christian Millward02:10 Kristen's Journey Through Grief04:26 The Loss of Baby Indi07:33 Generational Trauma and Healing07:55 The Role of Antidepressants11:26 Creating the Indi Star Cards12:24 Normalizing Spirit Communication15:05 Using the Indi Star Cards19:43 Finding Peace Through Awareness20:46 Sacred Tools and Their Significance21:12 The Journey of Creating Handmade Decks22:04 Communicating with Loved Ones Beyond23:49 Personal Experiences with Spirit Communication31:25 Teaching and Building a Community34:33 Navigating Emotional Health and Medication37:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughtshttps://www.indistarcards.com/hello@indistarcards.comhttps://www.instagram.com/indi.star.cards/Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok

Send us a textIn this episode, Michael Williams, the founder of Memoir Studio, discusses his transition from end-of-life planning to helping people write their memoirs. They explore the therapeutic power of storytelling, especially for older adults, and how sharing personal stories can offer emotional and historical value. Michael emphasizes the importance of acknowledging life's ups and downs, regrets, and failures in memoir writing. Michael shares touching stories of his clients finding their voices and the profound impact of preserving legacies through narrative.00:35 Guest Introduction: Michael Williams00:40 Michael's Journey: From End-of-Life Planning to Memoir Writing00:46 The Power of Storytelling00:55 Therapeutic Benefits of Memoir Writing01:02 Fear of Judgment and Vulnerability01:15 Welcoming Michael to the Podcast01:36 Michael's Background and Passion for Memoirs01:54 End of Life Planning Facilitator02:55 Supporting Families and Addressing Practical Aspects04:55 Transition to Memoir Work05:10 Discussing End of Life Plans with Clients06:07 Reassuring Conversations About Death08:57 Legacy Work and Finding Meaning12:30 Recording and Transcribing Stories13:34 Helping Clients Find Their Voice18:12 The Importance of Preserving Stories18:48 Personal Reflections on Family Stories22:09 The Value of Listening to Elders23:19 The Importance of Journaling23:41 Family Stories and Names25:00 Everyone's Life is Interesting29:38 The Power of Group Writing30:10 Therapeutic Benefits of Writing32:38 Challenges in Writing Memoirs34:47 Honesty and Universal Themes in Memoirs38:59 Dealing with Regrets and Mistakes42:54 End of Life and Legacy43:07 Conclusion and ResourcesLinks: My Substack page: https://memoirstudio.substack.comThe Memoir Studio at https://memoirstudio.caMy personal website: https://www.michaelwilliamsstoryteller.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/storycatcher/Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok

Send us a textIn this end-of-year episode of Seeing Death Clearly, host Jill McClennen sits down with her husband Steven to reflect on three years of podcasting. As the year 2025 closes, they discuss personal and professional highlights, stoicism, aging, and emotional experiences with death and grief. They delve into broader societal issues like elder care in the United States and the balance of everyday life. Jill also shares plans for future episodes, re-inviting past guests to explore their evolving perspectives. This candid conversation touches on navigating uncertainty, staying connected, and living intentionally.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:36 Reflecting on the Past Year02:14 Guest Highlights and Future Plans03:13 Navigating a Chaotic Year06:47 Thoughts on Aging and Society16:35 End of Life Conversations21:33 Home Funerals and Personal Rituals23:41 The Importance of Pre-Planning24:22 Challenges in Discussing Mortality28:18 Caregiving and Government Support33:24 Reflections on Life and Death41:08 Looking Forward to the Future43:22 Podcast Appreciation and Future PlansSupport the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok

Send us a textIn this episode, I welcome back Barbara Karnes to discuss the journey of transitioning from 'we' to 'me' after her husband Jack's death. Barbara shares heartfelt stories about her early days in hospice care, highlighting the value of understanding daily responsibilities and her experiences with end-of-life preparations, emphasizing the importance of discussing finances and duties early. We also discuss how death doulas play a role in modern hospice care, her thoughts on medical aid in dying, the creation of her widely beneficial booklets like 'Gone From My Sight,' and offers perspectives on educating families about the natural process of dying. This episode aims to open minds and demystify death, dying, and grief, encouraging listeners to prepare and embrace end-of-life conversations.00:00 Introduction to End of Life Education00:45 Guest Introduction: Barbara Carnes01:35 Adjusting to Life After Loss02:56 The Importance of Being Prepared04:18 Challenges of Living Independently07:10 Support Systems and Grief Counseling08:54 End of Life Doulas and Hospice Care13:31 Medical Aid in Dying: Perspectives and Ethics00:00 Comparing Birth and Death25:39 Contemplating Mortality and Legacy27:12 Current Projects and Writing28:07 The Importance of Food at End of Life30:28 The Family Support Bundle33:11 The Origin of 'Gone From My Sight'36:11 Personal Stories and Impact40:04 The Shift Back to Home Deaths43:48 Resources and Contact Information46:17 Final Thoughts and Farewellhttps://bkbooks.com/products/approaching-death-support-kithttps://bkbooks.com/blogs/something-to-think-abouthttps://www.instagram.com/barbarakarnesrn/https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbarakarnesrn/Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok

Send us a textIn this episode of 'Seeing Death Clearly,' host Jill McClennen, a death doula and funeral celebrant, welcomes Marni Blank, a former attorney turned entrepreneur and end-of-life doula. They discuss the emotional and logistical challenges families face regarding end-of-life planning. Marni shares her personal journey, including her mother's serious accident, which highlighted the importance of having essential paperwork in order. The conversation focuses on the significance of open discussions about end-of-life wishes, the role of a death doula, and practical advice for organizing important documents. They emphasize the importance of choosing the right people for roles like healthcare proxies and how preparation can provide peace of mind. Jill and Marni also address the common barriers and emotional reactions people have when discussing these topics and offer insights into facilitating these important conversations.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage00:43 Meet Marni Blank: From Attorney to End-of-Life Doula00:55 The Importance of End-of-Life Planning02:44 Challenges and Realizations in End-of-Life Conversations03:50 The Role and Impact of a Death Doula04:25 Personal Stories and Experiences08:09 Navigating Family Dynamics and Responsibilities10:09 The Emotional and Practical Aspects of End-of-Life Decisions37:21 The Role of Medical Professionals in End-of-Life Care41:05 Marni's Business and Resources for End-of-Life Planning44:10 Conclusion and Call to ActionWebsite: https://beginwiththeend.co/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beginwith_theend/Book a Free Call: https://calendly.com/marni-blank/marni-blank-initial-consultationPlan Well Organizer: https://beginwiththeend.co/plan-well-organizerSupport the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok

Dave Roberts, an addictions counselor and psychology professor, shares his heart-wrenching journey after the loss of his daughter, Janine. He discusses how grief can coexist with peace and the importance of maintaining bonds with loved ones. Dave emphasizes the value of different coping mechanisms within marriage, highlighting how he and his wife supported each other despite grieving differently. He also explores the intersections of spirituality, afterlife beliefs, and how his teaching evolved post-loss, encouraging open dialogues about death and diverse perspectives.

Send us a textIn this special Thanksgiving episode, Jill McClennen discusses the complex emotions of gratitude and grief that many people experience during the holidays. Early in the morning, Jill felt a mix of thankfulness and sadness and realized that she was not alone in these feelings. Holidays often amplify what we're already feeling, creating a paradox of joy and sorrow, especially when dealing with the loss of loved ones, relationship issues, or even societal pressures. Jill emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief instead of suppressing it. She recounts her personal experiences, including the loss of her grandmother and the challenges of maintaining holiday cheer amidst grief. Jill advises on setting boundaries, creating new rituals, and finding personal ways to cope, such as art and movement. She reminds listeners that it's okay to feel both gratitude and grief, and encourages them to reach out for support and to honor their complex feelings during the holiday season.00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Reflections00:50 Navigating Complex Emotions During Holidays01:44 Societal Pressures and Isolation02:24 Grief and Loss in Relationships03:22 Anticipatory Grief and Global Concerns04:16 Historical Context of Thanksgiving05:43 Environmental Grief and Hope for the Future06:49 The Empowered Grief Journey08:29 Creating New Rituals and Setting Boundaries13:37 Art as a Coping Mechanism16:53 Final Thoughts and Support18:09 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionSupport the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok

Send us a textIn this episode of Seeing Death Clearly, Jill McClennen sits down with Tolley Casparis, a death doula from Southern California, to explore the realities of supporting people at the end of life. They discuss the emotional challenges of caregiving, the importance of community, and how conscious preparation can create healing for both the dying and their loved ones. This conversation offers insight into the compassionate, yet often misunderstood, work of death doulas.Tolley shares what it truly means to guide someone through their final days, addressing emotions that often go unnamed, such as anger, fear, and frustration. She emphasizes the power of holding space consistently and quietly, and how these small acts can profoundly impact both the person dying and their families. The discussion also covers the accessibility of quality end-of-life care, navigating medical aid in dying, and the delicate balance between volunteer and paid work in the field.They explore the challenges around certification, the influence of social media on death doula work, and why ongoing learning and genuine community are essential for anyone supporting the dying. This episode provides an honest, grounded look at death doula work, conscious living, and supporting others with compassion and clarity.https://deathprofesh.com/Insta @tolleycasparis and @yourdeathprofessional00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:10 Welcome to Seeing Death00:35 Guest Introduction: Tolley Casparis01:01 The Realities of Death Doula Work01:12 Challenges and Certifications01:47 Personal Background of Tali Caspar03:19 Balancing Paid and Volunteer Work03:21 End of Life Care Plans03:43 Dealing with Difficult Conversations07:44 The Concept of a Good Death17:47 Art and Grief21:13 Certification Debate24:19 The Challenge of Gaining Experience as a Death Doula26:09 Heart-Centered Qualifications and Volunteering26:56 The Debate on Charging for Services29:08 Certification and Training Controversies32:57 Marketing and Personal Branding39:59 Navigating Client Relationships and Boundaries44:46 Building Community and Setting Industry Standards45:28 Conclusion and Call to ActionSupport the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok

Send us a textJonathan Foster joins the conversation to share the story behind Indigo, his book about the life and death of his daughter, Quincy. This episode explores how a parent’s grief can reshape faith, deepen compassion, and reveal new ways to heal and live consciously. It offers an honest look at love, loss, and the courage it takes to rebuild meaning after tragedy.He explains how losing her forced him to rethink long-held beliefs about God, certainty, and what it means to love without conditions. Jonathan describes how this heartbreak challenged his theology but also opened space for a more expansive, healing understanding of love that is not limited by religious rules. He shares how nature, community, and honest conversations about death and dying helped him stay connected to his daughter’s legacy while learning to live with deep sorrow. Together, they reflect on the “sin of certainty,” the power of curiosity, and the importance of end-of-life awareness in shaping a more compassionate world.Jonathan’s background spans decades of ministry, writing, and advocacy. He is a father of three, a former church planter, and a partner of one, with a doctorate in theology from Northwind Seminary. His work, including his leadership with lovehaiti.org and the co-founding of OpenTable.network, centers on love-driven community, inclusion, and human connection. His book Indigo: The Color of Grief has been praised by progressive Christian thinkers for its honest exploration of death, mourning, and healing. This conversation offers comfort, clarity, and a reminder that even in loss, beauty and meaning can still be found.jonathanfosteronline.com 00:00 Introduction: Exploring Life and Death00:16 Meet the Host: Jill McClennan00:41 Guest Introduction: Jonathan Foster01:34 A Mother's Grief and Appreciation03:03 The Meaning Behind 'Indigo'05:06 Faith, Loss, and Transformation09:57 Navigating Grief and Relationships17:11 The Divine and Gender Perspectives20:33 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies22:51 Questioning Good and Bad24:17 The Absurdity of Defining Good and Bad26:39 Leaving Religion and Asking Questions30:48 The Sin of Certainty34:34 Understanding Sin and Love37:15 Unconditional Love and Compassion41:40 The Complexity of Love and Forgiveness43:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSupport the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok

Send us a textIn this episode, our guest is Princella Seymour, a social worker with decades of experience in geriatrics and dementia care. Princella shares how she was called into elder care work, why early planning is essential, and what families often struggle with when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Together, they explore the emotional, financial, and logistical realities of caregiving, along with the federal and state resources that many people don’t know are available. Princella highlights the importance of honest conversations, clear planning, and making decisions before a crisis hits so families can focus on connection rather than chaos. Her new book, Everything You Need to Know About Me, inspired by the countless families she’s supported through painful, confusing decisions, is now available on Amazon.As CEO of Complete Elder Solutions, she has guided thousands of families through the complexities of aging. 00:00 Introduction to Seeing Death Clearly00:43 Meet Prince Seymour: A Journey in Geriatric Social Work02:07 Navigating Alzheimer's and Dementia Care06:12 The Role of a Care Coach08:01 Financial and Legal Planning for Elder Care16:17 The Importance of Pre-Planning19:21 Encouraging Conversations About End-of-Life Care24:05 Navigating Family Conversations About End-of-Life Planning24:51 The Importance of Written Wishes25:17 Family Dynamics and Funeral Experiences25:46 The Challenges of Caregiving26:10 Making Tough Decisions in Crisis Situations27:29 The Cost of Care and Financial Strain28:13 Balancing Caregiving with Personal Responsibilities29:33 Support Programs for Caregivers31:18 The Value of Professional Guidance40:35 Revisiting End-of-Life Plans Over Time43:15 Conclusion and ResourcesURL https://www.completeeldersolutions.com/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/complete-elder-solutions/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CompleteElderSolutions#Instagram Support the showSupport the show financially by doing a paid monthly subscription, any amount large or small help to keep the podcast advertisement free. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2092749/support Subscribe to Seeing Death Clearly and leave a 5-star review if you are enjoying the podcast. I appreciate the support, and it helps get the word out to more people who could benefit from hearing the podcast. Don’t forget to check out my free workbook Living a Better Life. You can connect with me on my website, as well as all major social media platforms. jill@endoflifeclarity.com Website www.endoflifeclarity.comInstagramFacebook Facebook group End of Life Clarity CircleLinkedInTikTok