Join host Traci Arieli for "Comforting Closure," a podcast where the often silent topics of aging, death, and grieving are explored with compassion and clarity. Each episode features guests who share practical advice, emotional insights, and spiritual perspectives to illuminate these natural yet seldom discussed aspects of life. Dive into tender conversations designed to demystify and destigmatize these experiences, offering solace and understanding to those navigating life's final chapters. ...
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The Death Doula Duo offers a unique exploration of life’s most profound transition, blending compassionate dialogue with practical insights as we navigate the journey of mortality. Join us as we share stories of resilience, acceptance, and beauty, embracing the circle of life with a fresh perspective
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Dear Loved One: The Gift of Forever Letters, Part 1
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33:00I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of Comforting Closure: Conversations with a Death Doula, Traci Arieli is joined by Lindsay Hurty, Ed.M., a Harvard-educated self-development specialist and founder of Everwell and Self School. Lindsay shares her inspiring journey and how she developed the concept of Forever Letters—…
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The Gift of Life: Understanding Stem Cell Donation
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53:31
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53:31I'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 Jennifer Leal to talk about stem cell donation. Jennifer shares her personal journey with acute myeloid leukemia, the challenges of finding a donor, and how these experiences inspired her advo…
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From Awareness to Action: Fighting Elder Abuse Together
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47:11
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47:11I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this powerful episode of Comforting Closure: Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli sits down with Lori Mars, director at the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA). Together, they explore the silent epidemic of elder abuse, covering its various forms—physical, emotional, financial, …
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Exploring the Final Frontier: Memorial Spaceflights with Celestis
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34:08
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34:08I'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 Charles M. Chafer, CEO of Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, to explore a unique and inspiring way to honor loved ones—sending their cremated remains into space. Together, they discuss this extraordin…
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Grieving and Weaving: Healing Through Fiber Arts at The Green-Wood Cemetery
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48:05I'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 Gabrielle Gatto and Mary Pat Klein from The Green-Wood Cemetery to explore the healing magic of "Grieving and Weaving." This unique program invites people to use fiber arts like knitting, crochet, …
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Kindness and Clarity: Preparing for the Future with Elliott Appel
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40:38I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, I sit down with Elliott Appel, the founder of Kindness Financial Planning, to talk about how financial preparation can provide comfort and peace of mind, especially during life’s toughest transitions. Elliott brings a warm an…
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13 - A Near-Death Experience with Deborah Atella
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34:28In this powerful episode, we sit down with Deborah Atella, host of the podcast :I Freaking Knew It" and author of "Is This Job My Jam?". Deborah shares the profound story of her near-death experience and the life-changing insights it brought her. We explore how this experience shaped her perspective on life, healing, and intuition, and how it influ…
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Guiding Children Through Grief: The Power of Play Therapy
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45:44
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45:44I'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 Liana Lowenstein, a registered social worker and child psychotherapist specializing in helping children navigate grief through play therapy. Together, they discuss how children experience grief dif…
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Preparing with Purpose: Writing My Advance Directive, Part 2
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49:34I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this second part of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, Traci Arieli completes creating her own advance directive with the help of end-of-life specialist Maureen Kures. Joined by her husband, Oren, Traci defines her healthcare wishes, exploring values like maintaining dignity,…
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Preparing with Purpose: Writing My Advance Directive, Part 1
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42:48
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42:48I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this very personal episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, join me as I work with Maureen Kures, founder of A Radiant Mourning and my husband, Oren, to create my own advance directive. Maureen leads us in exploring what it really means to document our wishes—from reflec…
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Tuning into Compassion: The Gift of Music in Aging and Memory Care
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30:50I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. Episode Description: In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli welcomes Angela Hey from SpiritCare Ministry to discuss the impact of music in aging care. We discuss Angela’s journey into music and bedside ministry, SpiritCare’s mission to enrich the…
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The Gift of Preplanning: Funeral Planning with Ryan Kolstad
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38:37
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38:37I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of 'Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula,' Traci Arieli is joined by Ryan Kolstad, founder of Preplanning.me. Together, they discuss the importance of funeral preplanning and why making arrangements ahead of time can be one of the most loving gifts you give to your …
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Breath Taking: Jessica Fein on Presence, Advocacy, and Navigating MERRF Syndrome
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36:30
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36:30I'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 Jessica Fein, author of Breath Taking, to discuss her family's profound journey caring for her daughter Dalia, who was diagnosed with the rare disease MERRF syndrome (Myoclonic Epilepsy with R…
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Coping After Suicide: A Conversation with Joanne Harpel
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51:11I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. **This episode discusses suicide and its impact on those left behind. If you find this topic distressing, please take care of yourself and feel free to pause or step away at any time. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 9…
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Hospice Care 101: Hospice Foundation of America on What Families Need to Know
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52:57
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52:57I'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 is joined by Angela Novas, a nurse and Palliative and Hospice Care Consultant for the Hospice Foundation of America. Together, they discuss hospice care. Angela shares her journey in hospice work, common mis…
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The Power of Clay: Ritual, Healing, and Connection in Grief with Dr. Lula Buzz
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44:45I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of Comforting Closure – Conversations with a Death Doula, Traci Arieli talks with Dr. Lula Buzz, an artist who uses clay to explore grief, memory, and healing themes. Dr. Buzz shares her journey, how clay became a sacred tool during her grief, and how she guides others in processing…
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Beyond Burial: Deathcare and Community at Greenwood Cemetery
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55:01I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, I’m joined by Gabrielle Gatto, manager of public programs from Green-Wood Cemetery, to discuss the transformation of cemeteries in today’s world. Gabrielle shares Green-Wood’s unique history as part of the rural cemetery move…
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Navigating Senior Living: Finding the Best Fit for Your Loved One
1:00:19
1:00:19
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1:00:19I'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 Mike Scoggin, senior living advisor and owner of Oasis Senior Advisors of Silicon Valley. Together, they discuss the complexities of senior living options, from independent living to memory care,…
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In Life and Death: How We Shape and Are Shaped by Our Dead
1:03:23
1:03:23
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1:03:23I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of 'Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula,' Traci Arieli is joined by Cody Sanders, author of Corpse Care: Ethics for Tending the Dead. Together, they discuss how historical events like the treatment of Indigenous Americans, the Civil War, African American slavery, m…
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Eternal Reefs: Honoring Life, Restoring Oceans
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50:53
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50:53I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of 'Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula,' Traci Arieli discusses the innovative and environmentally conscious practice of reef memorials with George Frankel, founder and CEO of Eternal Reefs. George shares the inspiration behind the company and how Eternal Reefs tr…
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12 - Transforming Pain into Purpose: Navigating Suicide Through Healing
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58:29
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58:29In this episode we are joined by Stephanie Aycock, Speaker, Creator, and Transformational Coach as well as Dr. Brandt Wiskur, Ph.D. in Neuroscience and MSW, who have each transformed their personal experiences with suicide into impactful works of art and healing. Through a deeply intimate discussion, we explore how they've used their talents - writ…
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Compassion Without Cost: The VHOCC Approach to Accessible Hospice Care
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39:47
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39:47I'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 explores barriers that many face when accessing hospice care. Joined by Priya Jayadev from Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County (VHOCC), they explore how VHOCC is making hospice care accessible and compassi…
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Listening to Our Children: Empowerment in Pediatric Palliative Care
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55:34I'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 Toula Saratsis, a mother, advocate, and end-of-life doula who knows firsthand the heartache of losing a child. Together, they discuss the topic of pediatric palliative care. Toula shares her…
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Safeguarding Your Wishes: Legal Protection for Advance Directives
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52:17
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52:17I'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 explores the critical topic of legally protecting your advance directive wishes. Joined by Janis Landis, an end-of-life care advocate from the Final Exit Network, they discuss how to ensure your healthcare…
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Collaborating for Comfort: Doulas and Hospice
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45:55
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45:55I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of 'Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula,' Traci Arieli explores the collaborative relationship between death doulas and hospice teams. She is joined by two nurses, Dori Sappo and Denise Campbell. Both Dori and Denise bring unique perspectives as they have worked on…
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Voices of Autonomy: Jim Van Buskirk on the Power of End-of-Life Stories
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41:02I'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 Jim Van Buskirk, a Final Exit Network volunteer and the editor of "There at the End: Voices from Final Exit Network." They read a few stories from the anthology, discussing themes of autonom…
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11 - When Plans Change: Death Doulas Unscripted
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29:35In this unexpected episode of Death Doula Duo, the tables are turned when our scheduled guest didn't make it. Join us for an impromptu and candid conversation as we explore our own beliefs, views, and experiences as death doulas. Get to know us on a deeper level as we answer fun and thought-provoking questions that reveal our personal journeys, phi…
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Disrupting Tradition: How Titan Casket is Changing the Funeral Industry
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29:51
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29:51I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode, we explore how Titan Casket is transforming the funeral industry by making high-quality caskets more accessible, customizable, and affordable by selling directly to consumers. Josh and Scott share their personal journeys that led to the creation of Titan Casket and explain how thei…
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10 - Bringing Compassion and Peace: A Ministerial Couple's Path to Supporting Others in Death and Grief
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46:52In this episode, Jen and Sara have an honest conversation with Alanna and Bo Ireland, a ministerial couple dedicated to guiding others through life's challenges, including death and grief. With unique roles and experiences in ministry, Alanna an Bo share how they bring peace, compassion, and acceptance to those inside and outside the church. They d…
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Stanford Hospital's Decedent Affairs: Family Support Meets Medical Excellence
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41:53
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41:53I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode, Traci Arieli speaks with Charles Tigard, the director of Stanford's Office of Decedent Affairs. They discuss the reasons behind the creation of this office, the family experiences, and the larger impact of their work. Key takeaways include insights into how the office supports grie…
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Voices from Beyond: Preserving Memories Through Vinyl
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42:53
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42:53I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, Traci Arieli discusses a unique memorialization option with Jason Leach from And Vinyly. This innovative service transforms a person’s ashes into vinyl records, creating a beautiful blend of legacy, memory, and sound. Jason s…
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Behind the Badge: Grief and Healing for First Responders
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51:58
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51:58I'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 discusses the unique challenges that police officers and first responders face when it comes to grieving. Joined by Nicole Junkerman, a retired police officer and founder of Positive Passing, LLC, they exp…
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Modernizing End-of-Life Planning: A Discussion with Thanacare
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35:10I'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 discusses the critical importance of advanced directives and planning for a good quality of life as we age. Joined by Sam Madison, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Thanacare, they explore how to e…
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09 - A Beautiful Journey: Moving Through Trauma into Gratitude
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43:30Join us with Trey Gee and Bridgette (filling in for Sara) in this episode where we delve into the inspiring journey of a disabled combat veteran who faced harrowing shadows of trauma and emerged into a life illuminated by spirituality and fulfillment. Trey is down to earth as he shares about his transformation and how practical disciplines includin…
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Reviving Tradition: Exploring Home Funerals with the National Home Funeral Alliance
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52:03I'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 discusses the profound impact of home funerals with Isabel Knight from the National Home Funeral Alliance. Together, they explore the practicalities, benefits, and challenges of home funerals, including na…
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Witnessing and Wisdom: Victoria Beelik on Losing Parents
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34:49I'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 explores the emotional journey of losing both parents within a short span of time. Joined by Victoria Beelik, author of "Watching My Parents Die," they discuss the challenges of navigating differing end-of…
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08 - The Importance of Advanced Directives with Drew Edmondson
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37:45We are ecstatic to have former Attorney General Drew Edmondson on the show as we continue to delve into the profound and often challenging topics of death and end-of-life issues. Drew shares personal stories, expert insights, and stories that explore the legal, ethical, and emotional aspects of end-of-life planning. A key focus of our conversations…
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Voices of Dementia: Demand Support to Keep Living Your Life Fully
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54:52I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. Episode Description: In this episode of 'Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula,' host Traci Arieli discusses the complex and often stigmatized topic of dementia. Joined by Kate Swaffer from Dementia Alliance International, they explore Kate's personal journey with young-onset dement…
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(Repeat) Art as a Path for Healing
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40:24I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. (Originally aired on September 12, 2023.) In this thoughtful conversation, Traci Arieli, the founder of Comforting Closure, sits down with therapist and author Bradie Hansen to explore the transformative power of art in the grieving process. Bradie, a prominent voice in the therapy community and a …
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Dignity in Departure: Understanding Self-Deliverance with Final Exit Network
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49:57I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses end-of-life choices and self-deliverance, which might be sensitive or triggering for some listeners. Please ensure you're in a space that feels safe and consider what's best for you as you listen. In this episode of 'Comforting Closure - Conversations with a …
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A Call for Kindness: The Humane Approach to End-of-Life Care in Prisons
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54:29I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of 'Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula,' Traci Arieli discusses the profound impact of providing end-of-life care within the prison system. Joined by Laura Musselman, Outreach & Events Manager, and Fernando Murillo, Program Manager of the Humane Prison Hospice Pro…
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07 - Conversations with an Embalmer: An insightful chat with a local professional Embalmer
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17:09In this episode we sit down for an insightful interview with a professional embalmer. Join us as we delve into what you always wanted to know but didn't have the opportunity to ask. Learn about the vital role embalmers play in honoring the deceased and providing comfort to grieving families. Whether you're curious about the technical aspects or the…
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Inside the Funeral Industry: The Modern Mortician's Perspective
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44:05I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of 'Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula,' Traci Arieli discusses the evolving landscape of the funeral industry with Melissa Meadow, known as the Modern Mortician. Together, they explore the concept of green funerals and how they can provide a more sustainable and …
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Aging with Intention: Karen Faith Gordon on Living Well at Every Age
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56:43I'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 Karen Faith Gordon, an expert in holistic aging, to discuss the keys to living a fulfilling life as we age. Together, they explore the importance of mental and spiritual well-being, the role …
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06 - When Death Comes: The Power of Being Present
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38:37In this episode Raschelle and Violet each tell their unique story of how going to say their final goodbyes to a dying loved one also allowed them to experience something profound. Their experiences share similarities in a way that is beautiful and relatable, as it speaks to the sacred and marvelous transition from life to death. Their ability to be…
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Beyond the Rainbow Bridge: Understanding Pet Grief with Paws to Remember
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44:55I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of Comforting Closure, host Traci Arieli is joined by Maryglenn Warnock from Paws to Remember to explore the complex journey of pet loss and grief. "Beyond the Rainbow Bridge: Understanding Pet Grief with Paws to Remember" offers a compassionate look into the heartache of losing a p…
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The Ultimate Itinerary: Death Doulas on Navigating the Path to Compassionate End-of-Life Care Education
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56:39I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. Welcome to a special episode of 'The Ultimate Itinerary: Death Doulas on Navigating the Path to Compassionate End-of-Life Care Education,' Join Kacie Gikonyo and Traci Arieli and they explore the heart of what it means to be a death doula — the education, the emotional resilience, and the deep sens…
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Embracing the Day: The Transformative Power of Adult Day Services with Live Oak
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35:07I'd love to hear from you! Send me a text message. In this episode of "Comforting Closure- Conversations with a Death Doula," we sit down with Ann Peterson from Live Oak Adult Day Services to explore the vital role these services play in our communities. From enriching the lives of older adults and individuals with special needs to offering respite…
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The Sacred Thread: Weaving Rituals into the Fabric of Life
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53:37I'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 is joined by Megan Sheldon, the visionary behind Be Ceremonial. Megan shares her wisdom on how simple, yet profound acts can transform everyday moments into sacred ceremonies, offering solace and connectio…
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