Don't Be Caught Dead Catherine Ashton

Today, we're joined by Camilla Rowland, CEO of Palliative Care Australia, who brings decades of experience in transforming palliative care practices and perceptions.In today's discussion, we delve deep into the holistic approach of palliative care—how it integrates into our healthcare system and what it means for individuals facing life-limiting conditions. Camilla sheds light on how embracing the realities of death can enhance the quality of life and why early conversations about end-of-life...

Annie Whitlocke is a death doula with a rich history of embracing life’s trials with an open heart.Annie shares her profound journey from a turbulent childhood through to her multiple personal tragedies, including loss of multiple husbands and struggles with miscarriages.These challenges have uniquely equipped her to assist others at the end of their lives. Her story is one of transformation; from pain and isolation to finding her calling in helping others face death with dignity and peace.Ke...

Welcome to another episode of 'Don't Be Caught Dead' where we shine a light on the topic many of us shy away from – death.This week, we're joined by a special guest, Jackie Slater, an authorised marriage and funeral celebrant. Jackie's spent over 40 years working in the funeral industry, and her journey in this industry is as intriguing as it is inspiring.In this episode, Jackie unravels her career journey, from starting as a 'Saturday girl' doing admin work for a funeral director, to becomin...

Do you crave captivating conversation about the things that REALLY matter?Then you can’t go past listening to a seasoned end of life doula with nearly 40 years of experience, like Helen Callanan. Helen is the founder and lead educator at Preparing the Way, an organisation that delivers holistic end-of-life and doula education across Australia and New Zealand. Helen's profound experience and passion for education create a wealth of knowledge that she generously shares with us today.In thi...

This episode focuses on the escalating issue of funeral poverty and debt.I speak with Kieran Worthington and Kevin Hartley, who discuss their mission to provide dignified funerals for those who might not be able to afford one.The conversation begins with a poignant question: where were Kieran and Kevin last year when our friend's children had to crowdfund their father's funeral?As it turns out, they were always there, offering their services to those in need, only we weren't aware of them.Reg...

In this episode, I speak with a pioneer in the death care industry, Zenith Virago. Zenith is the founder and executive officer of the Natural Death Care Centre Charity Australia. She is a death walker, a celebrant, and an educator.Zenith has been empowering people to have healthier, healing bereavement with few or no regrets for over 30 years. Our conversation was enlightening and funny, ranging from the significance of graveyards in England, ceremonies for the LGBTQ community, how to support...