In this episode, I answer a humbling question from a listener: 

What would I do differently today if I knew I only had 24 hours left to live.

Let's contemplate our mortality together, let's talk about regrets and trauma.

And of course, Let's Talk About Death. 

___________________

mortality, self-love, authenticity, life lessons, imperfection, death doula, personal growth, mindfulness, living fully, emotional healing

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

death, death doula, funerary practices, history of death care, doula bag essentials, coaching for caregivers, end of life care, rituals, grief support, palliative care

In this episode of Dear Psychopomp, Anne-Marie delves into the history and evolution of death care, exploring the role of death doulas and the essential items they carry in their doula bags. 

The conversation highlights the significance of rituals and ceremonies in death care, the transformation of funerary practices over time, and practical tips for those in the field. Additionally, Anne-Marie introduces her coaching services aimed at first responders and caregivers dealing with death and grief; she can be reached at grimandgracecoaching@gmail.com

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

In this engaging conversation, Mr. B, the Gentleman Rhymer, shares his reflections on loss, humor, and the complexities of family relationships. The discussion delves into personal stories about their fathers, the impact of grief, and the role of music in coping with loss. The conversation also explores the lighter side of death and the afterlife, blending humor with poignant insights. 

In this engaging conversation, Mr. B The Gentleman Rhymer and Dear Psychopomp delve into profound themes surrounding the afterlife, personal beliefs, and the influence of community. They reflect on their experiences with religion, the importance of kindness, and the impact of music in times of sorrow. The discussion also touches on the idea of having a tea party with iconic figures, exploring life lessons, and the bittersweet nature of memories associated with music. The conversation concludes with a heartfelt poetic tribute, emphasizing the uplifting power of art and connection.

takeaways

• Mr. B's unique persona blends humor and tragedy.
• Music can be a powerful tool for healing.
• Grief is a complex and personal journey.
• Cherished memories of loved ones can bring comfort.
• Humor often emerges in the face of loss.
• Family dynamics can complicate the grieving process.
• Estrangement can add layers to grief.
• Imagining death can provoke both fear and curiosity.
• The afterlife is a topic of personal interpretation.
• Finding joy in memories can help navigate sorrow. The afterlife is a complex and personal belief.
• Experiences of death may differ from expectations.
• Community and kindness play a significant role in faith.
• Personal experiences shape one's view of religion.
• Music can provide comfort during difficult times.
• Humor and levity can coexist with sorrow.
• Memories associated with music can change over time.
• Art can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.
• Life lessons often come from personal experiences.
• The importance of gratitude in life and art.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

chronic illness, healthcare, diagnosis, mental health, patient experience, waiting, illness, support, resilience, advocacy

summary

In this episode, Dear Psychopomp shares a deeply personal narrative about living with chronic illness, exploring the emotional and psychological toll of waiting for diagnoses, the impact on relationships, and the challenges faced within the healthcare system. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and advocacy for oneself and others in similar situations.

takeaways

• Chronic illness affects millions, yet often goes unseen.
• The waiting period for diagnoses can be torturous.
• Patients often feel dismissed due to their age or appearance.
• Living with uncertainty is a common experience for many.
• Support from loved ones is crucial during difficult times.
• Advocacy for oneself in healthcare is essential.
• The psychological weight of illness can be as heavy as the physical.
• Time in hospitals can feel distorted and isolating.
• Empathy and understanding are vital in supporting those with illness.
• Sharing experiences can foster connection and resilience.

Check out the Grief Talk Magazine June edition at: https://online.fliphtml5.com/ucekv/ofoc/

Check out Tony Lynch's podcast, https://www.youtube.com/@griefletstalkaboutit

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Akashic Records, healing, soul contracts, grief, intuition, self-love, meditation, spiritual growth, holistic therapies, energy

summary

In this episode, Becca Shaw from Ember Healing discusses the transformative power of Akashic Records and holistic therapies. She explains how these records serve as an energetic library for individuals, providing insights into their past, present, and future. The conversation delves into the significance of soul contracts and vows, the healing process through grief, and the importance of intuition and self-trust. Becca emphasizes the role of meditation in fostering self-love and encourages listeners to explore their own spiritual journeys.

takeaways

• The Akashic Records are an energetic library for the soul.
• Soul contracts are agreements between souls to help each other learn lessons.
• Grief can encompass more than just the loss of a loved one.
• Meditation is essential for grounding and connecting with oneself.
• Everyone has access to their Akashic Records, regardless of spiritual beliefs.
• Self-love is a practice that requires ongoing effort.
• Intuition can be developed and trusted through practice.
• Life experiences are opportunities for learning and growth.
• Healing can occur through understanding past life influences.
• The connection between souls transcends lifetimes.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

death, grief, stillness, emotions, self-love, meditation, presence, healing, mental health

In this episode of Dear Psychopomp, host Anne-Marie explores the themes of grief, stillness, and self-love. She reflects on her own experiences with existential crises and the importance of sitting with emotions rather than distracting oneself. The conversation emphasizes the need for presence and the beauty of engaging with grief as a means of healing. Anne-Marie invites listeners to honor their feelings and integrate self-love into their daily lives, reminding them that they are not broken but rather on a journey of growth and understanding.

takeaways

• Grief requires our full attention and presence.
• Stillness is essential for processing emotions.
• Modern life often distracts us from our feelings.
• Grief is not something to rush through.
• Engaging with grief can lead to profound insights.
• Self-love is a daily practice, not a one-time event.
• Meditation can help reflect on what we need to do.
• Honoring our emotions is a form of remembrance.
• You still have time to connect with what matters.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

In this conversation, Dr. Robb Kelly shares his journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the role of childhood trauma in shaping behaviors and mental health. He discusses the importance of addressing the root causes of addiction rather than just the symptoms, and how nutrition and self-talk play crucial roles in recovery. 

The conversation also delves into the complexities of grief and its impact on the brain, highlighting the need for understanding and compassion in the healing process. In this conversation, Anne-Marie and Dr. Robb Kelly explore the complexities of grief, the importance of healing through feeling, and the necessity of living in the present moment. 

They discuss the societal pressures surrounding grief, the competition it creates, and how individuals often rush through their emotions. The dialogue shifts to the significance of finding one's identity beyond work and material possessions, emphasizing that true happiness comes from within. They also touch on the power of perspective and the importance of serving others as a means of fulfillment.

takeaways

• Childhood trauma is often the root cause of addiction.
• Alcoholism is not just about alcohol; it's about underlying issues.
• Nutrition plays a significant role in mental health.
• Self-talk can either hinder or help recovery.
• Grief has no set timeline and is unique to each individual.
• Healing involves addressing the subconscious mind.
• The brain's structure can change with trauma and healing.
• Identifying as an alcoholic can hinder recovery.
• Compassion and understanding are essential in the grieving process.
• Recovery is possible, and one can achieve their dreams despite past trauma. Grief is a personal journey and not a competition.
• Healing requires feeling and processing emotions.
• Living in the present is essential for mental well-being.
• Identity should not be tied solely to one's job.
• Material possessions do not define happiness.
• Perspective shapes our experiences and reactions.
• Serving others can lead to personal fulfillment.
• Worrying is often a wasted emotion that does not serve us.
• Understanding others' behaviors can help reduce conflict.
• True happiness comes from within, not from external validation.

Dr. Robb Kelly can be found online at: https://robbkelly.com/

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Pope Francis, death, rituals, funerals, grief, healing, traditions, memorialization, transitions, ceremonies

In this conversation, Anne-Marie discusses the significance of rituals and ceremonies in marking transitions, particularly in the context of death and funerals. She emphasizes that funerals serve the living, providing a space for communal grieving and honoring the deceased. The discussion also explores modern methods of disposition, such as green burials and aquamation, and the importance of creating personal rituals for healing and remembrance.

takeaways

• Rituals and ceremonies provide structure and meaning during transitions.
• Funerals are primarily for the living, not the deceased.
• You are not obligated to attend a funeral if it is emotionally charged.
• There are various modern methods of disposition, including green burials and aquamation.
• Creating personal rituals can aid in the grieving process.
• Music serves as a universal language for expressing emotions.
• Daily journaling can be a helpful ritual for reflection.
• Memorial plants can keep the memory of loved ones alive.
• Rituals can be personal, cultural, or communal in nature.
• Honoring emotions through creative expression is vital for healing.

Chapters

00:00
The Importance of Rituals in Transition

08:39
Understanding Funerals and Death Rituals

12:57
Modern Disposition Methods and Their Significance

16:33
Creating Personal Rituals for Grief and Healing

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

guided meditation, impermanence, self-discovery, mindfulness, breathing techniques, relaxation, mental health, spirituality, personal growth, meditation

In this episode, Anne-Marie leads a guided meditation focused on embracing the present moment and reflecting on the impermanence of life. Through a series of breathing exercises and visualizations, listeners are encouraged to connect with their bodies, acknowledge their mortality, and find peace in the transient nature of existence. The meditation culminates in a journey of self-discovery, inviting participants to explore their inner selves and consider their relationships with life and death.

takeaways

• Guided meditation can serve as a distraction from the political climate.
• Being present in the moment is essential for mental well-being.
• Each breath is a reminder of our existence and vitality.
• Impermanence is a natural part of life that can bring freedom.
• Imagining a red door symbolizes opportunities for self-discovery.
• Meditation helps in connecting with one's higher self.
• Reflecting on mortality can inspire meaningful life changes.
• Living with the awareness of death can enhance appreciation for life.
• The meditation encourages forgiveness and release of burdens.
• Engaging in mindfulness practices can foster personal growth.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Becky Robison (she/her) is a writer living in Louisville, Kentucky. A graduate of UNLV’s Creative Writing MFA program, her work has appeared in Salon, Slate, Business Insider, and elsewhere. She’s also the mind behind My Parents Are Dead: What Now?—a project that aims to help people navigate the dizzying labyrinth of post-death bureaucracy based on her own experience. Her book My Parents Are Dead: What Now? A Practical Guide to Your Life After Their Death is forthcoming from Quirk Books in 2026

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

In this week's solo episode, we dive into what you can reasonably expect from life, from yourself, from others, and from loss.

Then I ramble for a bit about things I'm passionate about because I don't want anyone to feel like they're alone.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

In this episode, I have the opportunity to sit down with Joél Simone Maldonado and squee in her presence.  We talk about her career, her story, her opinions, and so much more.  

Joél Simone Maldonado, affectionately known as The Grave Woman, brings over a decade of groundbreaking expertise and innovation to the fields of end-of-life, death and grief care. As a sacred grief care practitioner, licensed funeral director and embalmer, award-winning educator and speaker, Joél is dedicated to empowering professionals, organizations and governmental agencies to create and implement culturally sensitive protocols and inclusive practices that honor diverse cultures and traditions. She serves on the Board of Directors for Compassion & Choices, is the co-chair of the organizations DEIB committee and volunteers with the African American Leadership Council and is the host of The Death & Grief Talk Podcast. 

Joél is most proud of being the founder and lead instructor of The Multicultural Death & Grief Care Academy which specializes in providing culturally sensitive continuing education resources and training for professionals, leaders and teams; empowering them to navigate end of life, death and grief care with compassion and competence. The Multicultural Death & Grief Care Academy is the go to resource and training ground for those in the health, death and grief care industry seeking a meaningful professional change of pace.  

Joél’s insights have been featured in numerous media outlets, including both the New York & LA Times, NPR, Inside Edition, Glamour Magazine, Good Housekeeping and many others where she has shared key perspectives on the importance of cultural competency in funeral service. Additionally, Joél has a robust speaking history, having presented at prestigious industry events such as the American Society on Aging Annual Conference (2025), Teracon (2025),  the National Funeral Directors Association International Convention & Expo (2024), the Super Death Care Conference (2024), The Green Burial Conference (2021), and many other prominent gatherings in the death care industry.

You can find her online by searching for "The Grave Woman"

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

death, compassion, empathy, healing, online cruelty, mental health, Charlie Kirk, tragedy, humanity, respect


In this episode, we reflect on the tragic death of Charlie Kirk, emphasizing a need for compassion and empathy in the face of loss. The conversation critiques the online culture of cruelty and desensitization surrounding tragedies, urging listeners to recognize the human impact of such events. 

This isn't about agreeing or disagreeing with Charlie's views.
We need to talk about the growing culture of cruelty.
If we lose our empathy, we lose the thread that holds us together.
You are responsible for your healing, and healing is not linear.
The biggest gifts from the universe are time and energy.
You are how you show up for yourself and for others.
Everything is temporary. Are you happy right now?
Protect your energy. Protect your peace.
Let's be better. Let's be kinder.
Don't die mad, grumpy, and miserable.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Sit down with Lou and I as we talk about being the Glass Child, loss of a sibling, and recreating ourselves one day at a time.

Lou Bowers  is an award-winning marketer. She has been published in a variety of newspapers and magazines, including She Owns It And Get Griefy magazine. 
Lou was recently featured on a billboard in Times Square during the launch of a book she co-authored Resilient AF stories of resilience Volume 2. She loves thrift shopping, hanging out with her kids, hiking and paddle boarding, and she'll never turn down an oat milk latte.

Find Anne-Marie online at www.dearpsychopomp.com or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

This day, I really felt like I needed a parent. 

We also go over creating a foundational belief system to help with not being afraid of death.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Paula Jane Newman sits down with me to talk about using humor through grief, and why laughter is the best medicine.

Paula can be found online at paulajanenewman.com

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Come with me on a journey to help remember what is really important to you, and what you can let go of.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Join myself and Tony Lynch as we discuss grief, loss, inspiration, and life.

Find this episode on your favorite podcast platform or click here:

https://linktr.ee/dearpsychopomp

Tony Lynch is an amazing soul doing amazing things - he can be found online at 

Insta: mensgriefsupport

FB: Tony Lynch, Global Grief Network, Grief Let's Talk About It podcast

YouTube: Grief Let's Talk About It podcast

or on LinkedIn: Tony Lynch 

you can also visit his website at www.mensgriefsupport.org

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Discussion with Stacey Olson-Steele on why collaboration is so important in business and at home - and how it can change your mental health. 

Stacey can be found at www.collaborativelead.ca

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Discussions with a Death Doula

Listen to this if you want to be a Death Doula, are thinking of hiring one, or are simply curious what it means to do this work.

This episode covers the general feel for what a Death Doula does, how to find the right Doula for you, and more.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

Psycho..what?!

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

death doula, grief, self-inquiry, emotional resilience, training, certification, community, resources, end of life, personal reflection

takeaways

• Start volunteering to explore your interest in death work.
• Self-inquiry is essential before becoming a death doula.
• Understanding your own relationship with death is crucial.
• Grief needs tending; don't rush into this work if you're grieving.
• Emotional resilience is key when supporting dying individuals.
• There are no formal educational prerequisites to become a death doula.
• Community support among doulas is vital for success.
• Explore various modalities to enhance your doula practice.
• Utilize online resources and courses to expand your knowledge.
• Talking about death should be normalized in society.

Book recommendations: bookshop.org/DearPsychopomp 

Finding Peace at the End of Life - Henry Ferso-Weiss, LCSW: https://bookshop.org/a/111637/9781590035023

The Needs of the Dying - David Kessler - available online (I can't find a bookshop link for this one)

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

death doula, end of life, emotional support, spiritual support, pre-planning, grief, legacy work, acceptance, mental resilience, funeral poverty

In this episode, I express my never-ending gratitude for the podcast's growth and introduce the concept of Death Doulas. We discuss roles, emotional support, and the importance of pre-planning. The conversation delves into various scenarios that doulas may encounter, emphasizing the need for emotional resilience and understanding in end-of-life care.

Find Amy Shea's new book at: https://bookshop.org/a/111637/9781978843998

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

death, death doula, grief, end of life, psychopomp, emotional support, volunteering, mental health, caregiving, life transition

In this episode, Anne-Marie, the host of Dear Psychopomp, welcomes listeners to the second season of the podcast, where she explores the topic of death with humor and compassion. She introduces the role of a death doula, explaining its significance and the emotional complexities involved. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and emotional well-being for those considering this path, while also encouraging listeners to engage with their local communities through volunteering. The season promises a mix of stories, insights, and guest appearances, inviting listeners to approach the subject of death with curiosity and openness.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

grief, healing, loss, connection, resilience, emotional pain, shared sorrow, death doula, mental health, self-care

In this heartfelt conversation, Dear Psychopomp explores the complexities of grief, emphasizing that while loss is a universal experience, healing occurs through connection and shared sorrow. The speaker reflects on personal experiences of grief, the importance of acknowledging pain, and the resilience that emerges from it. The discussion encourages listeners to embrace their emotions, seek connection, and understand that grief is not something to hide but a testament to love and loss.

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

In this episode, I go down the rabbit hole following my soul as if I've died, and describe the amazing things I find along the way.

death, dying, grief, cosmic adventure, memory, love, afterlife, spirituality, existence, connection, myth, hopes, dreams, afterlife, reflection

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

grief, loss, friend loss, writing, creativity, friendship, support, mental health, storytelling, healing, community

In this episode, Hannah Rumsey shares her journey of grief following the sudden loss of her friend Lauren. Through storytelling, writing, and humor, she explores the complexities of navigating grief, the importance of witnessing pain, and the healing power of creativity. The conversation delves into the societal challenges surrounding grief, the need for support, and the significance of keeping memories alive through shared stories.

takeaways

Grief is a complex and ongoing process that doesn't have a timeline.

• Witnessing each other's pain is crucial for healing.
• Humor can be a powerful tool in coping with loss.
• Creating art can serve as a container for grief.
• Friend loss is often overlooked and needs more recognition.
• It's important to talk about grief openly and without stigma.
• Grief can coexist with joy and happiness.
• The details of a loved one's death can haunt those left behind.
• Support groups can provide essential peer support for grieving individuals.
• Living fully means embracing both grief and joy.

You can find Hannah on IG as @friendsmissing friends

or by going to friendsmissingfriends.com

and check out the grief groups available here: friendsmissingfriends.com/griefgroup

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡

The Death Deck, death, dying, hospice, grief, acceptance, end-of-life, conversations, regrets, humor, planning

In this conversation, Lisa Pahl, CEO of Death Deck LLC, shares her insights on death, dying, and the importance of having open conversations about these topics. Drawing from her personal experiences and professional background in hospice care, she discusses the significance of showing up for loved ones, common questions faced at the end of life, and the role of humor in coping with death. Lisa also introduces the Death Deck, a tool designed to facilitate discussions about end-of-life wishes and planning, and emphasizes the need to normalize conversations around death to ease the grief process for families.

You can find Lisa online at www.thedeathdeck.com

You can find me online at www.dearpsychopomp.com

or contact@dearpsychopomp.com

I hope your weekend is gentle and full of opportunities ♡