Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.In this episode of Comforting Closure – Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli sits down with Sandy Chen Stokes, founder of the Chinese American Coalition for Compassionate Care (CACCC), to discuss end-of-life care in the Chinese American community. Together, they talk about how deeply rooted traditions, intergenerational caregiving, and spiritual beliefs shape conversations about death—and how those conversations are changing in today’s world.  From cultural taboos to the power of open communication, Sandy shares personal stories, practical wisdom, and tools like the Heart to Heart® Café and Heart to Heart® Cards that empower families to connect more deeply. Whether you're a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply someone navigating the complexities of death and dying, this episode offers encouragement and actionable guidance.  Key topics include: Cultural barriers to end-of-life conversations Intergenerational shifts in caregiving Rituals, beliefs, and communication practices The importance of early planning and education CACCC's tools and volunteer training programs How AI is helping shape the future of compassionate care  Let’s normalize these critical conversations and build bridges across generations—because talking about death is truly a way to honor life.  Links & Resources: Guest: Sandy Chen Stokes – Chinese American Coalition for Compassionate Care: https://www.caccc-usa.org Host: Traci Arieli – Comforting Closure: https://www.comfortingclosure.com Heart to Heart® Cards: https://www.caccc-usa.org/heart2heart-cards Mentioned Film: The Farewell (2019) – https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8637428/ Learn more about advance care planning: https://theconversationproject.org  If this conversation moves you, please like, share, comment, and subscribe. Help us spread awareness and compassion one conversation at a time.  

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli sits down with Louise Silk, a celebrated quiltmaker and fiber artist, to explore how quilting serves as a tool for life review, memory, grief, and legacy. Louise shares how she began her quilting journey after reading an article in Ms. Magazine, how she has used quilting to process personal loss, and why the Witness Quilt—a collection of over 1,000 embroidered wisdoms—was dismantled and given away. Together, they discuss: How quilting serves as a metaphor for life review The role of storytelling and memory in fabric art The Witness Quilt: its evolution, meaning, and dismantling Ritual, impermanence, and the lessons quilting teaches about grief and letting go Passing wisdom and legacy through art This episode is a beautiful reminder that reflection isn’t just about looking back—it’s about honoring our stories, embracing change, and finding meaning in creative expression. Links & Resources: Guest: Louise Silk - https://www.silkquilt.com; https://bubbewisdom.com; https://www.instagram.com/silkquilt/Host: Traci Arieli’s Website - https://www.comfortingclosure.comThe Witness Quilt Exhibit - https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/whats-on/history-center/exhibits/louise-silk-a-patchwork-life/Louise’s Books: https://bubbewisdom.com/2025/03/08/in-my-own-words/Louise's ETSY shops- https://www.etsy.com/shop/SilkDenim; https://www.etsy.com/shop/SilkquiltIf this conversation resonated with you, please like, share, comment, and subscribe to support more open discussions on life, loss, and legacy. 

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli sits down with Sheila Martello, founder of Stephy’s Place, a nonprofit grief support center dedicated to providing free, peer-led support for those navigating loss. Sheila shares her journey of loss following the events of September 11th, and how her experiences inspired her to create a community where people can grieve openly, find connection, and heal together. They discuss the power of peer support, the myths and misconceptions about grief, and why community plays a vital role in the mourning process. Key takeaways from this episode: The story behind Stephy’s Place and how it offers free, peer-led grief support. The difference between grief and mourning—and why both are necessary. Common grief myths and why there’s no "right way" to grieve. How society can better support those who are grieving. This episode is a powerful reminder that grief doesn’t have to be faced alone. Links & Resources: Stephy’s Place: https://www.stephysplace.org Host: Traci Arieli’s Website: https://www.comfortingclosure.com Recommended Resources: Stephy’s Place donation & support page: https://www.stephysplace.org/donate Follow Stephy’s Place on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephysplace Follow Stephy’s Place on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephysplace If you found this conversation meaningful, please like, share, and subscribe to help normalize conversations about grief and healing. Let’s create a world where no one has to grieve alone.  

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.In this episode of Comforting Closure – Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli sits down with Erica Baccus to share a deeply personal and powerful story about Death with Dignity. When Erica’s husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, he knew he wanted control over his end-of-life journey. But with restrictive laws in the U.S., they were forced to travel to Switzerland, one of the few places where non-residents can legally choose an assisted death.  Together, we discuss:  What Death with Dignity means and why it was important to Erica’s husband.  The legal and logistical challenges of seeking assisted dying in Switzerland.  The emotional journey of supporting a loved one through this choice.  The impact on grief, healing, and societal perceptions of end-of-life decisions.  This conversation is about love, loss, and honoring someone’s final wishes. Whether or not you agree with Death with Dignity, Erica’s story is a powerful reminder that every individual deserves autonomy, dignity, and compassion at the end of life.  Links & Resources  Guest's Substack: https://ericabaccus.substack.com/p/a-promise-kept Host: Traci Arieli's Website – https://www.comfortingclosure.com  Resource Mentioned: In Love by Amy Bloom – https://www.amybloom.com  If this conversation resonated with you, please like, share, and subscribe to support the podcast and continue normalizing conversations about death, dying, and grief. Let’s open the door to more compassionate and informed end-of-life choices. #DeathWithDignity #EndOfLifeDoula #DeathDoula #Alzheimers #AssistedDying #GriefSupport #ComfortingClosure 

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.What happens after we die? How does faith shape the way we grieve? In this episode of Comforting Closure – Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli sits down with Jeff Pedersen, a former practicing Mormon turned agnostic atheist, to explore the unique and deeply rooted beliefs of Mormonism regarding death, grief, and the afterlife. Together, they discuss: Pre-mortal existence & the three levels of heaven – What Mormons believe about life before birth and where souls go after death. Resurrection & Eternal Families – The Mormon concept of physical resurrection and the idea that family bonds extend beyond the grave. Grief & Community Support – How the Mormon faith helps families process loss and why community plays a crucial role.  Faith Transitions & Changing Perspectives – Jeff’s personal journey from belief to atheism and how his views on death and grief have evolved. Whether you’re curious about Mormon beliefs or simply want to better understand how faith impacts our relationship with death, this episode offers a compelling and thought-provoking discussion. Links & Resources: Host: Traci Arieli – https://www.comfortingclosure.com If you found this episode interesting, please like, share, and subscribe to support more open conversations about death, grief, and end-of-life care. Let’s normalize these discussions together! #DeathDoula #EndOfLifeDoula #GriefSupport #MormonFaith #Afterlife #FaithAndGrief #LegacyAndLoss 

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli speaks with Danielle Cristofano Schwartz, founder of Love From Lydia. After the devastating loss of her daughter Lydia, Danielle turned her grief into action, creating a compassionate community that provides support for grieving parents. Together, they discuss: The unique challenges of child loss and the grief journey. How Love From Lydia provides comfort, resources, and connection for bereaved parents. The power of random acts of kindness in healing and remembrance. Why community and peer support are crucial for those navigating grief. Ways to honor a lost child while still moving forward in life. This episode aims to normalize the conversation around child loss, grief, and healing, offering hope and tangible support for families facing the unimaginable. Links & Resources: Guest: Danielle Cristofano Schwartz – Love From Lydia – https://lovefromlydia.com Host: Traci Arieli – Comforting Closure – https://www.comfortingclosure.com COPE Program for Bereaved Parents – https://lovefromlydia.com/cope One Last Wave Project – https://onelastwaveproject.com If this conversation resonated with you, please like, share, and subscribe to help us spread awareness and support for those navigating grief. Your engagement helps bring these important discussions to more people who need them. #DeathDoula #EndOfLifeDoula #ChildLoss #GriefSupport #BereavedParents #HealingAfterLoss #ActsOfKindness 

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode of Comforting Closure – Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli sits down with Medicare expert Sharon Knox to break down the essentials of Medicare & Medicaid, enrollment periods, common pitfalls, and how to choose the right coverage. Whether you’re approaching Medicare age, helping a loved one, or planning for the future, this episode will give you practical insights and expert advice to help you make informed healthcare decisions. Sharon shares valuable information on Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare, penalties to avoid, and tips for maximizing your benefits. Key Takeaways: What Medicare covers and how to qualify The differences between Medicare Advantage, Original Medicare, and Medicaid Enrollment periods and penalties to watch out for How to find the best coverage for your needs Recent changes in Medicare and how they affect you This episode is essential for anyone looking to better understand the complex world of Medicare while planning for long-term healthcare needs. Links/Resources: Guest: Sharon Knox – Medicare Specialist | Visit Meta Insurance Solutions at https://www.meta-insurancesolutions.com Host: Traci Arieli – Learn more at https://www.comfortingclosure.com Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov CMS Official Site: https://www.cms.gov  If you found this episode helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to support the channel and help others navigate the journey of aging, death, and grief with confidence. Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. #DeathDoula #EndOfLifeDoula #Medicare101 #MedicareHelp #AgingWell #HealthcarePlanning #Medicaid #MedicareAdvantage 

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.In this episode of Comforting Closure – Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli sits down with Matt Jacobson, founder of LifeBooks, to explore the profound impact of storytelling and legacy documentation. Have you ever wondered how to preserve your loved one’s memory for future generations? Matt shares how reflecting on life stories fosters healing, connection, and a sense of continuity. From the emotional and therapeutic aspects of life review to the practicalities of capturing memories, this episode will inspire you to start documenting today. Key Takeaways: Why life review is essential for emotional healing and grief processing How legacy documentation can keep a loved one’s memory alive Practical tips for starting a LifeBook and encouraging family participation The role of storytelling in strengthening intergenerational bonds This episode is perfect for anyone navigating grief, seeking a way to honor a loved one, or wanting to create a timeless keepsake for their family. Links & Resources: Guest: Matt Jacobson | LifeBooks – https://www.lifebooks.io Host: Traci Arieli | Comforting Closure – https://www.comfortingclosure.com Found this conversation helpful? Like, share, and subscribe to support the show and help normalize conversations around grief, legacy, and end-of-life care. #DeathDoula #EndOfLifeDoula #Legacy #LifeReview #Storytelling #GriefSupport #MemoryPreservation 

I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message.In this episode of Comforting Closure: Conversations with a Death Doula, Traci Arieli sits down with Lindsay Hurty, founder of Everwell and Self School, to explore the impact of Forever Letters. These letters are more than words on a page—they’re expressions of love, wisdom, and connection that become part of a lasting legacy. Lindsay shares her thoughts on crafting Forever Letters, offering simple and practical tips to help you get started, even if writing feels overwhelming. From using photographs to spark memories to the emotional power of handwritten notes, this episode looks at the joy and healing these letters bring to both the writer and the recipient. Key takeaways include: How Forever Letters help preserve your unique voice and legacy. Why the act of writing is as meaningful for the writer as it is for the recipient. The profound impact of sharing your love and wisdom with those who matter most. This episode is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too early—or too late—to let the people you love know how much they mean to you. Links/Resources: Guest: Lindsay Hurty's Website - lindsayhurty.com Substack: Becoming Everwell with Lindsay Hurty YouTube: Becoming Everwell with Linz Instagram: @lindsay_everwell Host: Traci Arieli's Website - https://www.comfortingclosure.com Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated with our latest episodes! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from the comfort and inspiration of Forever Letters. 

In this engaging conversation, Lindsay Hurty, a Harvard-educated self-development specialist and founder of Everwell, shares her journey toward creating Forever Letters. She explains how these heartfelt messages promote deep connections and leave a lasting legacy. Through touching stories of her great-grandmother and the symbolism of bees, Lindsay discusses the importance of family heritage and the emotional power of recorded memories. Listeners will discover practical tips for writing these letters and how they can bring comfort and connection to loved ones during times of grief.