Seeing Death Clearly

Send us a textIn this podcast episode, we talk with Deb Driscoll, an author, spiritual teacher, and speaker, whose life has been a testament to the transformative power hidden within profound loss. Deb's story is about the  heart-breaking tragedy of losing her 10-year-old son, Sage, a pivotal moment that shattered her world and set her on an unexpected path of healing and growth.As Deb shares her personal evolution through grief, the importance of embracing loss not merely as a source of pain but as a profound opportunity for personal growth. She found solace in the idea that the healing journey is not a fixed destination but a continuous process.Deb's work, rooted in Heart Repair and the transformation from big life loss to what she terms as "BIG LIFE MAGIC," highlights the intricate connection between significant loss and profound personal growth. She believes that our big life losses, whether through death, divorce, diagnosis, or unrealized dreams, offer a pathway to discovering the magic within ourselves.The podcast also delves into the importance of preparing for grief and loss in advance, acknowledging the difficulty of conversations about life, death, grief, love, and joy. Deb shares a story about her sister's end-of-life journey, emphasizing the crucial role of open dialogues in building resilience when facing significant life losses.Debra Driscoll's journey serves as a beacon for those navigating the complexities of grief, illustrating how turning loss into Big Life Magic is not only possible but a profound opportunity for self-discovery and transformation. Through intuitive guidance, spiritual practice, and storytelling, Deb invites others to tap into their own magic, believing that in doing so, they can become not only the best healers for themselves but also for others. Ultimately, her message resonates with the idea that every loss or challenge offers a lesson, an opportunity to strengthen our energetic hearts, and invite more love and magic into our lives.Website - https://biglifemagic.com/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/BigLifeMagicIG @biglifemagicBook: A Series of Surrenders - https://bit.ly/ASeriesofSurrenderstheBookA FREE resource for listeners. Heart TRepair Meditation & Journal Prompts - https://bit.ly/HeartRepairHelpBig LiSupport 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 have a conversation with Eryn Johnson, a Philadelphia-based writer and facilitator, about her journey from a religious upbringing to her current spiritual beliefs. Eryn, whose work has graced publications like Well + Good, Insider, and Tilted House Magazine, brings a unique perspective to her exploration of queerness, mental health, spirituality, and healing.Eryn's background is rooted in a Southern Baptist Christian environment, where faith played a central role in her life. She shares how growing up with a strong belief in God and a family whose core values were deeply entwined with Christianity profoundly shaped her worldview.We explore how religious beliefs can be a source of both comfort and anxiety. Eryn shares her journey of transitioning away from her faith, which began during high school she discovered new spiritual practices, such as yoga and tarot, embarking on a path of spiritual exploration.One key message that emerges from our conversation is the importance of fluidity and openness in Eryn's evolving spirituality. Her current beliefs encompass the idea that individuals return to the universe or energy after death, with potential connections to the energy of ancestors. She believes in souls embarking on a journey, processing, and reflecting on life.Our discussion sheds light on the complexity of religious upbringing, the transformative power of personal exploration, and the significance of finding one's unique spiritual path. It encourages listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the meaning they choose to create in their lives.Eryn also offers facilitation services, specializing in supporting individuals, especially those from religious backgrounds they've shed, in embracing their emotions, connecting with their bodies, and fully embodying themselves. Eryn's training in trauma-informed care, breathwork, yoga, meditation, and energy work equips them to provide valuable support.For those interested in Eryn's work, they have developed a "religious trauma workbook" available on their website, designed to help individuals reclaim their autonomy from dogmatic religious experiences. Eryn is also available for facilitating breathwork in retreats and groups.If you'd like to contact Eryn or learn more about their services, you can contact them at erynjohnsonfreelance@gmail.com.https://joynotes.substack.com/https://erynjohnson.com/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 textJeanette Sealy, a dedicated Yoga Therapist, loving mother of four, and a veteran of the United States Air Force, is on a mission to bring healing and transformation to people's lives. Her profound personal journey through complex trauma has given her a deep understanding of the healing potential of Yoga and Ayurveda. Since 1993, she has been unwaveringly committed to exploring the science of Yoga. As an Internationally Certified Yoga Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist, and Transformational Retreat Leader, she is the founder of Metta Bhav, a School Of Yoga Therapy, Ayurveda, and Thai Massage. Jeanette is also a death doula and Ayurvedic postpartum doula, using her wisdom and compassion to guide others on their path to healing and an extraordinary quality of life.After becoming a hospice volunteer, Jeanette quickly fell in love with the sense of purpose, the people she met, and the profound impact she could have on their lives. It wasn't just a job for her; it was a profound calling. For 26 years, she dedicated herself to working in various healthcare settings, including nursing homes, hospice, and long-term care.Already a dedicated yoga practitioner, she introduced the healing power of yoga to the populations she served. In 2003, she embarked on a transformative journey to become a certified yoga therapist, aiming to learn techniques for bringing yoga to individuals, even those on their deathbeds. In Jeanette's perspective, yoga is not limited to modern postural practices but is a holistic system of teachings and practices designed to help individuals find inner peace and self-discovery.This journey led her to transition away from the corporate healthcare world and focus on working one-on-one with individuals in grief support. Today, she wears multiple hats as a yoga therapist, Ayurvedic doula, and massage therapist. Yet, her overarching mission remains constant across her many roles: helping people tap into their inner resources and discover their true selves, thereby empowering them to make more informed choices in life.https://www.jeanettesealy.comhttps://www.instagram.com/jeanettesealyhttps://www.facebook.com/jeanettesealyyogaSupport 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 textOur guest, Sam Ruth, originally from Michigan but now in Colorado, shares her journey as a psychologist, author, and speaker. She met her husband in Michigan at 24, and they reconnected later but tragically, he passed away in Colorado at 46, just four years later.Sam turned to nature and the beauty of Colorado to heal. Sam's deep connection to spirituality emerged following her loss. In her work as a psychologist, Sam encounters many individuals dealing with practical and financial aspects following a loss. She encourages people of all ages to consider these matters, even if it's not a pleasant topic to dwell on. Her husband's logical approach to these matters and planning ahead brought her some comfort when she needed it most.Sam, a naturally restless thinker, initially struggled with meditation and yoga. Unable to even read, she turned to audiobooks while walking her dog, hoping to find some relief. She ventured into meditation, vision boards, and other unconventional methods. Over time, she transformed as a person, incorporating meditation as a non-negotiable routine in her life.Recognizing the need for support after her loss, Sam created a community called "Griefhab." Drawing on her background as a psychologist, she designed this community to provide the support she couldn't find elsewhere. It offers a safe space for healing, where individuals are encouraged to heal in their unique ways. Sam also shares resources and support through her website, SamanthaRuth.com, where you can find her books, tools, and tips.samantharuth.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/griefhab7/https://samantharuth.com/team-ruthlesshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-be-ruthless-show/id1554585454https://mailchi.mp/744821c8f40c/healing-together-through-the-holidays?fbclid=IwAR3KTxKiLb0Qo30FLqviSze22eZtXO-CtjinnSkHqP7nX1SXO_7LrPJc9EoSupport 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 textThis week, we're deviating from our usual guest interviews due to a hectic week. Sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges our way. One such challenge happened to me recently when my minivan was struck by a drunk driver. It could have been much worse, but we're grateful that no one was hurt. This incident reaffirmed my deep appreciation for life and the importance of living in the moment.I've always emphasized the significance of mindfulness and death awareness, and this experience underscored their value. By practicing mindfulness and contemplating death, we can better grasp what truly matters in life.The accident and not getting an episode done made me realize that getting stressed over minor inconveniences doesn't serve us. In the past, I might have been anxious about not meeting expectations, but I've learned that it's okay to let go of that stress and focus on what's genuinely important.I will also be taking a break in December, as both my children have birthdays and we celebrate Christmas. It's a time for reflection and spending time with loved ones. But don't worry; we'll be back in January with season 2 and some exciting guests.Thank you for your support and understanding, and remember to cherish every moment.You can subscribe to our podcast and support us financially to keep it ad-free. Your contribution, whether big or small, is greatly appreciated. You'll find the subscription link in the show notes, and you can make a one-time contribution via Venmo.Thank you for being part of our "Seeing Death Clearly" community, and we can't wait to reconnect with you in the upcoming episodes.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 podcast episode, I'm joined by Tony Lynch, the founder of The Global Grief Network, a worldwide community of grief workers, mental health practitioners, and coaches. This community is all about raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and providing support to each other.During our conversation, Tony shares his personal journey of spiritual growth, self-acceptance, and self-discovery, all while facing the challenges of grief. We delve into the importance of self-reflection, understanding the origins of our habits, and the crucial process of addressing trauma and mental health issues.Tony embraces diverse backgrounds and beliefs, promoting acceptance. He emphasizes the value of learning from others, regardless of their beliefs, and suggests that incorporating positive aspects from various belief systems can make us more enlightened individuals.Tony advocates for everyone to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Over time, we accumulate habits from our surroundings that may no longer serve us as we grow older. Digging deep within ourselves helps us understand why certain habits no longer work and allows for personal growth.Addressing trauma, PTSD, and mental health issues is essential, and it's never too late to heal and grow. This process has provided Tony with a better understanding of his past, present, and future.Tony's work with men, helping them break free from mental struggles and witnessing their healing process, brings him immense joy. This work fills his heart with gratitude, making him both personally and altruistically fulfilled.https://www.facebook.com/griefsupportformenFb- The Global Grief Network https://www.facebook.com/groups/695890305913338Ig- https://www.instagram.com/mensgriefsupport/Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-lynch-8035b6173/LinkedIn group - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250521/Podcast host - Grief Let’s Talk About It podcast -YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@griefletstalkaboutit/videos#1 international Amazon best-selling Author - Relentless -Stories of Overcoming AdversitySupport 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 textMy guest this week is Casey Stevens. We had a heartwarming conversation about her incredible journey. High school was a turning point in her life, marked by a profound loss and her parents played a pivotal role in helping her navigate this grief by openly discussing death and grieving.This experience, along with her volunteer work with people at the end of life, set her on a path to a career in spiritual psychology. Casey helps others break free from unproductive patterns and undergo radical transformations through conscious awakening.Casey cherishes the memories of her great-grandmothers, who provided a strong presence during her childhood. When a close friend tragically took her own life in high school, Casey's parents supported her through the grief. They created space for her to process her emotions and involved teachers and friends in commemorating the friend's life.Her mom's deep bond with her grandmother and her subsequent grief taught Casey the importance of openly sharing emotions. Her mother's willingness to talk about her sadness helped Casey process her own feelings.During her school years, Casey engaged in community service and had a significant encounter with a hospice for people with HIV/AIDS. This experience had a profound impact, influencing her decision to pursue a career in psychology later in life.She also shared a unique connection with an individual at Bailey-Boushay House in Seattle during her high school years. Despite his preference for solitude, they formed an extraordinary bond and had meaningful conversations. This experience helped Casey appreciate the value of human connection and the positive impact of giving one's time to help others.You can find Casey by following the links below.https://www.instagram.com/shrinkbigger/https://linktr.ee/shrinkbiggerSupport 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 textNadia grew up in a family of spiritual seekers who openly discussed death. They believed that death wasn't an end but a transition to another dimension. Her mother's peaceful passing in October 2020 was a result of their many conversations about death, making it less frightening.Her goal today is to stress the importance of open conversations about death to make it less scary and traumatic. Often, society disconnects from discussions about death, grieving, and building meaningful relationships while we're alive.Her mother and she reconciled in her last ten years, despite past struggles. Her mother's sudden decline was a shock. In just six weeks, she went from a robust state to passing due to leukemia. It was peaceful; they opted out of chemo as per her wishes. They rushed to her side, and she knew she had to be there for her. Witnessing her departure was profound. Her mother's passing seemed like her soul's choice, and it happened swiftly. She waited for them, and as they entered her room, her eyes opened.Everyone experiences death differently; there's no right or wrong. The message of the podcast is vital – discussing death and preparing for it through conversations can prevent trauma. Her mother's transition was an enlightening experience, contrary to societal norms. She left with peace, love, and a sense of rapture.Her father's death contrasted sharply. His life took a solitary path due to his self-fulfilling prophecy. He died alone, isolated from loved ones. Forgiveness work allowed them to heal, but his transition was a relief. This journey of acceptance and understanding brings her peace. Death is a unique experience for everyone, and openness can help us navigate it with grace.Nadia's podcast episode with Jill #11 Death’s Sacred Medicine with Jill McClennen | Soul Health MentorContact Nadia through her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/nadiaskraussSupport 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 spoke with Bryan Adler, an elder care attorney from the Rothkoff Law Group. My curiosity about elder care law grew when I began working as a death doula, and I was eager to learn more from Bryan.Bryan shared that their firm, the Rothkoff Law Group, is committed to educating the public about issues related to the elderly and the professionals who assist them. When someone reaches out to them, whether it's a family member or the individual themselves, they often have concerns about a loved one's health or aging-related conditions. They may receive a diagnosis and be unsure of how to proceed. In such cases, the firm's team conducts a phone consultation to understand the situation and determine how they can be of assistance.During these consultations, Bryan and his team delve into the clinical aspects of the situation, including diagnoses and the family's worries. They work on creating a comprehensive plan focused on ensuring the best possible care while also addressing financial concerns. Bryan emphasized that their team consists of non-lawyer professionals, including social workers who develop care plans, occupational therapists who handle home safety modifications, physical therapists who assess balance and mobility, death doulas to help with end of life planning, and a public benefits team that explores funding options through Medicare, Medicaid, and other government programs.Their approach is team-based, and clients often stay with them for years, building strong relationships that extend beyond crisis management.We also discussed the Elder Care Symposium, an educational event hosted by the Rothkoff Law Group. This year's theme is "Death is Part of Life," reflecting the crucial role of addressing end-of-life issues. The symposium, taking place on October 19th, offers both in-person and live streaming options for attendees. You can find more information in the show notes at https://rothkoffsymposium.com/.The symposium, which began in 2018, aims to bring national discussions on elder care to the forefront and promote innovation in the field. Past topics have included Alzheimer's drugs and unique approaches to dementia care. This year, the focus is on death and dying, emphasizing that acknowledging and embracing this aspect of life is vital for elder care advocates. The hybrid format of the event allows for networking and flexibility in attending sessions, making it a valuable resource fSupport 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, we're joined by Ariell Kirylo, a dear friend of mine for over two decades. She recently reached out to me after a year of supporting her friend Stephen, who tragically passed away at the age of 51 due to a sudden brain tumor. Ariell wanted to share her experiences and insights from this journey.Many of us find it challenging to navigate end-of-life situations because it's often kept distant, hidden away in sterile hospital environments. Ariell's story is an inspiring example of how to show up and provide meaningful support to someone in their final moments.Ariell noticed that various people around Stephen played different roles in his journey. Some were the "doers," meticulously organizing everything and tying up loose ends. Others were the "fighters," never giving up hope for a miraculous recovery. However, Ariell chose a different path. She created a safe space for Stephen to explore his thoughts and feelings, allowing him to travel in his mind and spirit to the other side while still on Earth.This approach involved surrendering to the inevitability of death, something our modern society struggles with. Ariell's story reveals her own journey towards surrendering, which began with a near-death experience when a tree fell on her car in September 2021.Her perspective shifted as she contemplated death from both sides, realizing that death could be seen as a transition, a birth into another form of consciousness or an afterlife. This reframing of death can help us change our conversation and perception of it.I asked Ariell how this experience transformed her. She shared that it deepened her understanding of intimacy and the acceptance of her own eventual passing. Watching Stephen's graceful departure, despite his moments of frustration and fear, showed her the beauty in facing death with grace and mastery.Ariell encouraged us all to be present and unafraid when witnessing death, as there are valuable lessons to be learned. By embracing these lessons, we can wear them like pearls and prepare ourselves for our own inevitable journey.Ariell invites us to view death as a beautiful and spiritual transition, guided by our faith and inner beliefs. This shift in perspective can help us confront the concept of death with a sense of wonder and acceptance.You can see some of Stephen’s teachings from the end of his life in his Instagram https://instagram.com/fuzzymuSupport 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