https://simplecast.com Bevival: Exit Interviews To confront the existential question of mortality, we talk with those who write about it. World-renowned authors share their perspectives and lessons learned to help you navigate death, dying, loss, and grief. 2025 Bevival en Thu, 16 Jan 2025 02:22:26 +0000 Fri, 14 Mar 2025 20:19:54 +0000 https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com Bevival: Exit Interviews https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/242ba083-09b1-4b2c-b7e8-cc9f533adca5/74f16119-4e09-4990-a5bb-31d4c5e54f2f/3000x3000/podcast-tile-1400-x-1400-px.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com episodic To confront the existential question of mortality, we talk with those who write about it. World-renowned authors share their perspectives and lessons learned to help you navigate death, dying, loss, and grief. Jade Adgate, Devorah Medwin, Caren Martineau false https://feeds.simplecast.com/NBvqnWGn bereavement, bevival, death, interviews, literature, mortality, dying, bestselling authors, end of life, grief, aging, death literacy, death education, books, grieving, author interviews Bevival bevivalpodcast@gmail.com 14fb0892-57ac-4600-a7ed-9eddbe41feb3 Day Schildkret Day delves into the art of creating intentional rituals to navigate life’s transitions, from personal loss to moments of celebration. He shares insights into finding beauty in impermanence and surrender, while our host, Jade Adgate, reflects on her own experiences with death and change. Together, they discuss the power of rituals as a bridge to connection, grounding, and meaning in a fast-paced, disenchanted world. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that combines poetic philosophy with practical tools for honoring life’s cycles.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Thu, 16 Jan 2025 02:22:26 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Jade Adgate. Producer: Caren Martineau. Editing: Matt Silverman) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/day-schlidkret-9ljaru8z-E65wzUOp Day delves into the art of creating intentional rituals to navigate life’s transitions, from personal loss to moments of celebration. He shares insights into finding beauty in impermanence and surrender, while our host, Jade Adgate, reflects on her own experiences with death and change. Together, they discuss the power of rituals as a bridge to connection, grounding, and meaning in a fast-paced, disenchanted world. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that combines poetic philosophy with practical tools for honoring life’s cycles.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Day Schildkret Host: Jade Adgate. Producer: Caren Martineau. Editing: Matt Silverman 00:56:08 In our latest episode, we explore the profound world of rituals and grief with author and Earth artist Day Schildkret, known for his transformative books Morning Alters and Hello, Goodbye. In our latest episode, we explore the profound world of rituals and grief with author and Earth artist Day Schildkret, known for his transformative books Morning Alters and Hello, Goodbye. celebration of life, healing, grieving, loss, creativity, rituals false full 6f265f46-3cee-4614-abc9-a69ba543c325 Mark Dowie A request for help prompted award-winning investigative journalist to reach out to his friend's friend– a woman who had chosen the exact time and date she planned to end her life. What followed evolved into a daily six-month long conversation that examined cultural language, personal agency and the right to die. In this episode, Dowie discusses how his relationship with poet Judith Tannenbaum profoundly changed his life.

Mark Dowie's memoir, Judith Letting Go: Six Months in the World's Smallest Death Cafe is his seventh book. Other titles include: Conservation Refugees: The Hundred-Year Conflict between Global Conservation and Native Peoples; The Haida Gwaii Lesson: A Strategic Playbook for Indigenous Sovereignty; American Foundations: An Investigative History; Losing Ground: American Environmentalism at the Close of the Twentieth Century;  Waste Land: Meditations on a Ravaged Landscape; and We Have a Donor: The Bold New World of Organ Transplanting. 

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 28 Oct 2024 19:26:02 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Jade Adgate. Producer: Caren Martineau. Editing: Matt Silverman) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/mark-dowie-P1Vb9Hy1 A request for help prompted award-winning investigative journalist to reach out to his friend's friend– a woman who had chosen the exact time and date she planned to end her life. What followed evolved into a daily six-month long conversation that examined cultural language, personal agency and the right to die. In this episode, Dowie discusses how his relationship with poet Judith Tannenbaum profoundly changed his life.

Mark Dowie's memoir, Judith Letting Go: Six Months in the World's Smallest Death Cafe is his seventh book. Other titles include: Conservation Refugees: The Hundred-Year Conflict between Global Conservation and Native Peoples; The Haida Gwaii Lesson: A Strategic Playbook for Indigenous Sovereignty; American Foundations: An Investigative History; Losing Ground: American Environmentalism at the Close of the Twentieth Century;  Waste Land: Meditations on a Ravaged Landscape; and We Have a Donor: The Bold New World of Organ Transplanting. 

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mark Dowie Host: Jade Adgate. Producer: Caren Martineau. Editing: Matt Silverman 01:04:29 In this episode, Jade speaks with the author of Judith Letting Go: Six Months in the World's Smallest Death Cafe. Their discussion boldly examines personal loss, suicide, medical aid in dying, and one's right to choose. In this episode, Jade speaks with the author of Judith Letting Go: Six Months in the World's Smallest Death Cafe. Their discussion boldly examines personal loss, suicide, medical aid in dying, and one's right to choose. compassion & choices, end of life choices, bestselling authors, podcast, memoir, death education, death literacy, journalist, right to die false full 12880d71-6426-4917-ab52-3e9868e317a5 Francesca Arnoldy Some readers will begin contemplating mortality and documenting their life, death, and care wishes while their health is stable, perhaps sparked by a notable transition, loss, or another type of awakening. Others might feel motivated due to illness or the aging process. As your guide through this process, I aim to inspire you to acknowledge—and even reclaim—what it means to be mortal because I have experienced the benefits of these efforts personally, and I have witnessed positive outcomes for others. - Francesca Arnoldy.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Wed, 25 Sep 2024 22:23:04 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Jade Adgate Producer: Caren Martineau Editor: Matt Silverman) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/francesca-arnoldy-gLay1bLQ Some readers will begin contemplating mortality and documenting their life, death, and care wishes while their health is stable, perhaps sparked by a notable transition, loss, or another type of awakening. Others might feel motivated due to illness or the aging process. As your guide through this process, I aim to inspire you to acknowledge—and even reclaim—what it means to be mortal because I have experienced the benefits of these efforts personally, and I have witnessed positive outcomes for others. - Francesca Arnoldy.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Francesca Arnoldy Host: Jade Adgate Producer: Caren Martineau Editor: Matt Silverman 00:55:54 In this episode between two practicing death doulas, Jade Adgate interviews Francesca Arnoldy, educator, author and death literacy advocate. Also be sure to check out her Q&A here: https://bit.ly/ArnoldyBevival In this episode between two practicing death doulas, Jade Adgate interviews Francesca Arnoldy, educator, author and death literacy advocate. Also be sure to check out her Q&A here: https://bit.ly/ArnoldyBevival end of life choices, childrens picture books, cultivating a doula heart, doula, books, death education, compassionate care, death literacy false full fb676c85-5980-4553-86e0-fad422cbcb83 Dr. Kathryn Mannix "In a world where we have managed to overcome many challenges using technology and medical advances, there are still some difficult things that just won’t go away. We have no cure for death...[and] no workarounds for daunting conversations. Whether we like it or not, sometimes we have to take a deep breath and get into a conversation that we might have preferred to avoid...so getting informed and prepared seems like a good idea." - Dr. Kathryn Mannix. In this episode, Dr. Mannix brings a compelling narrative to life as to why, and how to, enter uncomfortable conversations.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Wed, 28 Aug 2024 02:50:10 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Jade Adgate Producer: Caren Martineau Editor: Matt Silverman) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/kathryn-mannix-vCUS66yR "In a world where we have managed to overcome many challenges using technology and medical advances, there are still some difficult things that just won’t go away. We have no cure for death...[and] no workarounds for daunting conversations. Whether we like it or not, sometimes we have to take a deep breath and get into a conversation that we might have preferred to avoid...so getting informed and prepared seems like a good idea." - Dr. Kathryn Mannix. In this episode, Dr. Mannix brings a compelling narrative to life as to why, and how to, enter uncomfortable conversations.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Dr. Kathryn Mannix Host: Jade Adgate Producer: Caren Martineau Editor: Matt Silverman 01:11:48 Palliative care doctor and author of Listen: How To Find The Words For Tender Conversations, and international best-seller, With The End In Mind, has much wisdom to share about life and death. Palliative care doctor and author of Listen: How To Find The Words For Tender Conversations, and international best-seller, With The End In Mind, has much wisdom to share about life and death. love, how to, kindness, grieving, grief, loss, bereavement, memorialize, books, memories, death education, caregiving, conversations, death literacy, family false full abbe0c60-c7a2-4d5a-b86f-4c5a8936fd36 Stephanie Lucianovic In this heartfelt episode, children's picture book author of "The End of Something Wonderful: A Practical Guide to a Backyard Funeral" explores the difficult subject of losing a pet or loved one and the importance of saying goodbye with host Jade Adgate, a death midwife.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Sun, 14 Jul 2024 01:00:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Jade Adgate Producer: Caren Martineau Editor: Matt Silverman) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/stephanie-lucianovic-U1jQcLPh In this heartfelt episode, children's picture book author of "The End of Something Wonderful: A Practical Guide to a Backyard Funeral" explores the difficult subject of losing a pet or loved one and the importance of saying goodbye with host Jade Adgate, a death midwife.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Stephanie Lucianovic Host: Jade Adgate Producer: Caren Martineau Editor: Matt Silverman 00:55:29 Join us as Stephanie shares her inspiration behind this and other stories, the importance of addressing grief with young children, and how parents can use her book as a tool to navigate the emotional journey of losing a beloved pet. The conversation is filled with wisdom and practical advice for families experiencing or anticipating a loss. Join us as Stephanie shares her inspiration behind this and other stories, the importance of addressing grief with young children, and how parents can use her book as a tool to navigate the emotional journey of losing a beloved pet. The conversation is filled with wisdom and practical advice for families experiencing or anticipating a loss. bestselling authors, childrens picture books, author interview, childrens lit, death education, funeral rituals, pet loss, death literacy false full 34fa5a12-cf53-457e-9a8b-ee70201a03a7 Barbara Karnes, RN If it has to do with death and dying, Barbara Karnes, RN, has been talking about it for over four decades. In addition to the many years she has spent at the bedside caring for patients and their families, she's also served as an executive director of hospice and various home-health agencies, working through the hospice ranks as patient care manager, clinical director, staff, nurse, and volunteer. She's an NHPCO Innovator Award recipient and been featured in The NY Times, USA Today, Huffington Post, Thrive Global & The Washington Post.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Thu, 13 Jun 2024 17:04:22 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Jade Adgate. Producer: Caren Martineau. Editing: Matt Silverman) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/barbara-karnes-rn-p8LQCuVM If it has to do with death and dying, Barbara Karnes, RN, has been talking about it for over four decades. In addition to the many years she has spent at the bedside caring for patients and their families, she's also served as an executive director of hospice and various home-health agencies, working through the hospice ranks as patient care manager, clinical director, staff, nurse, and volunteer. She's an NHPCO Innovator Award recipient and been featured in The NY Times, USA Today, Huffington Post, Thrive Global & The Washington Post.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Barbara Karnes, RN Host: Jade Adgate. Producer: Caren Martineau. Editing: Matt Silverman 01:09:26 Hospice pioneer, EOL educator and author of "The Little Blue Book," Barbara Karnes has been helping caregivers walk through the process and sacredness of death for over four decades. Her library of booklets have become indispensable tools for families at time of need. Hospice pioneer, EOL educator and author of "The Little Blue Book," Barbara Karnes has been helping caregivers walk through the process and sacredness of death for over four decades. Her library of booklets have become indispensable tools for families at time of need. end of life, doula, hospice, death education, caregiving, death literacy false full f0d48980-4d31-433d-8fe9-bcbbae3f467b Erica Buist Writer Erica Buist recounts the evolution of her book, This Party's Dead: Grief, Joy and Spilled Rum at the World's Death Festivals for Bevival's podcast host Jade Adgate, founder of The Farewell Library.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 13 May 2024 18:25:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Jade Adgate. Producer: Caren Martineau. Editing: Matt Silverman) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/erica-buist-M5KwVlbe Writer Erica Buist recounts the evolution of her book, This Party's Dead: Grief, Joy and Spilled Rum at the World's Death Festivals for Bevival's podcast host Jade Adgate, founder of The Farewell Library.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Erica Buist Host: Jade Adgate. Producer: Caren Martineau. Editing: Matt Silverman 01:13:59 A traumatic encounter with death, followed by a global pandemic (more death) and crippling agoraphobia sent writer Erica Buist on a journey around the globe. What she uncovered is fascinating, wickedly smart and belly-laugh hilarious. A traumatic encounter with death, followed by a global pandemic (more death) and crippling agoraphobia sent writer Erica Buist on a journey around the globe. What she uncovered is fascinating, wickedly smart and belly-laugh hilarious. author, death culture, death humor, death festivals, this party's over, death, bevival, funeral rituals, death literacy, journalist, burning man false full d74f6891-372c-4a41-b8bf-088799d2bbfc Mary-Frances O'Connor Mary-Frances O'Connor is an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry who researches the physical and emotional responses to grief. According to O'Connor, a neuroscientist, grief is an immediate emotional state that knocks you off your feet like a wave. While grieving is a form of adaptive learning over time - a period when the brain is changing and teaching us how to adapt to the absence.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Sat, 6 Apr 2024 20:35:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Bevival) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/mary-frances-oconnor-60HaZD0p Mary-Frances O'Connor is an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry who researches the physical and emotional responses to grief. According to O'Connor, a neuroscientist, grief is an immediate emotional state that knocks you off your feet like a wave. While grieving is a form of adaptive learning over time - a period when the brain is changing and teaching us how to adapt to the absence.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mary-Frances O'Connor Bevival 00:30:13 Author of The Grieving Brain explores what scientists know about how our brain grapples with the loss of a loved one. Author of The Grieving Brain explores what scientists know about how our brain grapples with the loss of a loved one. bestselling authors, psychiatry, grieving, researcher, grief, mary-frances o'connor, bereavement, the grieving brain, psychology, neuroscience false full 34c30193-e78b-45be-93c1-e7430478397e Alix Strauss As a trend journalist, Alix Strauss has always been on the cusp of culture change. After 20 years, her newly reissued book couldn't be more relevant. It's raw and real- replete with tales of sex, death and loneliness. Think Six Feet Under meets Sex in the City.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Tue, 26 Mar 2024 21:20:33 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Bevival) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/alix-strauss-5E9lupIW As a trend journalist, Alix Strauss has always been on the cusp of culture change. After 20 years, her newly reissued book couldn't be more relevant. It's raw and real- replete with tales of sex, death and loneliness. Think Six Feet Under meets Sex in the City.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Alix Strauss Bevival 00:50:44 Host Jade Adgate explores The Joy of Funerals with the book's author. Host Jade Adgate explores The Joy of Funerals with the book's author. love, relationship, thirtysomething, grief, loneliness, loss, death, lust, fiction, humor, culture, new york times magazine, sex, connection false full baf9aabe-65ce-4140-89ad-0e149cb66cd4 Angela E Morris In her highly personal, yet universally relatable book, Morris talks openly about loss, debilitating grief, relational healing and the process of writing it all down. 

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 25 Mar 2024 22:13:13 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Bevival) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/angela-e-morris-kMdpMe9U In her highly personal, yet universally relatable book, Morris talks openly about loss, debilitating grief, relational healing and the process of writing it all down. 

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Angela E Morris Bevival 00:35:07 Host Jade Adgate has a candid conversation with the author of Love Note to Grievers. Host Jade Adgate has a candid conversation with the author of Love Note to Grievers. friendship, anger, support, grieving, grief, writing, practical guide, loss, complicated grief, death, bereavement, shame, empathy, pocket guide, dad false full d5694d91-51aa-482e-bdaa-8fccd94d7fdc Frances Weller Weller explains that grief is a core emotion of the human experience that seeks to be witnessed rather than solved. He highlights the importance of community and ritual in navigating its weight, describing grief as "feral" and urging us to embrace its wildness to foster emotional and spiritual growth. Weller underscores how grief and beauty coexist, deepening our appreciation and gratitude, especially as younger generations face profound, unique losses.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 6 Nov 2023 22:37:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/frances-weller-qmBZDBr4 Weller explains that grief is a core emotion of the human experience that seeks to be witnessed rather than solved. He highlights the importance of community and ritual in navigating its weight, describing grief as "feral" and urging us to embrace its wildness to foster emotional and spiritual growth. Weller underscores how grief and beauty coexist, deepening our appreciation and gratitude, especially as younger generations face profound, unique losses.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Frances Weller Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 01:00:33 Well known psychotherapist and author of The Wild Edge of Sorrow delves deeply into grief, its importance, and the need for rituals and community support in navigating sorrow. In this conversation with host Devorah Medwin, Weller emphasizes that grief is not merely an emotion tied to personal loss but a constant profound experience related to the human condition and the larger context of environmental and cultural degradation. He introduces the concept of "apprenticeship with sorrow," advocating that grief should be approached as a skill to develop over time, much like a craft. Well known psychotherapist and author of The Wild Edge of Sorrow delves deeply into grief, its importance, and the need for rituals and community support in navigating sorrow. In this conversation with host Devorah Medwin, Weller emphasizes that grief is not merely an emotion tied to personal loss but a constant profound experience related to the human condition and the larger context of environmental and cultural degradation. He introduces the concept of "apprenticeship with sorrow," advocating that grief should be approached as a skill to develop over time, much like a craft. wild edge of sorrow false full 29b5550d-8741-47b2-ad33-9846faef0a7a Sigrid Nunez Nunez’s work presents life and dying as inherently chaotic processes, often defying expectations. Her writing illustrates the tension between control and uncertainty, especially in end-of-life decisions and humanity’s failure to face grim realities. Her 2020 novel,What Are You Going Through, was adapted into Pedro Almodovar's 2024 film titled, The Room Next Door, starring Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 3 Apr 2023 21:34:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/sigrid-nunez-Ei5LVDbK Nunez’s work presents life and dying as inherently chaotic processes, often defying expectations. Her writing illustrates the tension between control and uncertainty, especially in end-of-life decisions and humanity’s failure to face grim realities. Her 2020 novel,What Are You Going Through, was adapted into Pedro Almodovar's 2024 film titled, The Room Next Door, starring Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Sigrid Nunez Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 01:04:01 In this episode, host Devorah Medwin dives into the author's novel, *What Are You Going Through* and her reoccuring themes which explore society’s denial of death and the complexity of forgiveness at the end of life. Nunez reflects on life, death, control, identity, and how narratives of humor and tragedy intertwine, emphasizing the importance of presence and companionship in these moments. In this episode, host Devorah Medwin dives into the author's novel, *What Are You Going Through* and her reoccuring themes which explore society’s denial of death and the complexity of forgiveness at the end of life. Nunez reflects on life, death, control, identity, and how narratives of humor and tragedy intertwine, emphasizing the importance of presence and companionship in these moments. the room next door, what are you going through, death with dignity, relationships, loss, terminal illness, novel, meaning making, pedro almodovar false full 58c727a8-c6c6-4456-855c-2cfce6a4306f Diane Rehm Known for her unique mix of curiosity, honesty, intimacy and decades of hosting experience, Diane Rehm's weekly interview program brings many of the nation’s prominent newsmakers, journalists, artists and thinkers to talk on the biggest issues of the day, with a focus on cutting through the noise in Washington to reveal the issues beneath the politics.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 30 Jan 2023 22:24:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/diane-rehm-URX74M8_ Known for her unique mix of curiosity, honesty, intimacy and decades of hosting experience, Diane Rehm's weekly interview program brings many of the nation’s prominent newsmakers, journalists, artists and thinkers to talk on the biggest issues of the day, with a focus on cutting through the noise in Washington to reveal the issues beneath the politics.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Diane Rehm Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:27:47 In 2017, Rehm began working on a documentary with director Joe Fab. The film and companion book, “When My Time Comes”,  was drawn from interviews examining the individual’s right to make the personal choice to die if death is near. In this episode, In 2017, Rehm began working on a documentary with director Joe Fab. The film and companion book, “When My Time Comes”,  was drawn from interviews examining the individual’s right to make the personal choice to die if death is near. In this episode, morning talk, death culture, podcast, washington insider, culture, death literacy, journalist false full bd927142-7cc3-4944-bcf6-6148f2ec4eab Nancy Slonim-Aronie Writing From The Heart: Finding Your Own Voice is a workshop that is nurturing for the beginning writer and a jump-start for the burnt-out professional. You will take home your powerful one-of-a-kind golden voice filled with self-esteem, honor and joy.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 7 Nov 2022 22:01:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/nancy-slonim-aronie-0b_dUuaz Writing From The Heart: Finding Your Own Voice is a workshop that is nurturing for the beginning writer and a jump-start for the burnt-out professional. You will take home your powerful one-of-a-kind golden voice filled with self-esteem, honor and joy.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Nancy Slonim-Aronie Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:37:15 Host Devorah Medwin speaks with her friend about deep loss and her book, Memoir as Medicine: The Healing Power of Writing Your Messy, Imperfect, Unruly (but Gorgeously Yours) Life Story. Nancy Slonim-Aronie founded The Chilmark Writing Workshop on Martha's Vineyard and regularly teaches memoir writing at Omega, Kripalu, Esalen and Harvard. Host Devorah Medwin speaks with her friend about deep loss and her book, Memoir as Medicine: The Healing Power of Writing Your Messy, Imperfect, Unruly (but Gorgeously Yours) Life Story. Nancy Slonim-Aronie founded The Chilmark Writing Workshop on Martha's Vineyard and regularly teaches memoir writing at Omega, Kripalu, Esalen and Harvard. grief, workshops, writing false full d1e38ab2-df7e-406b-8955-cb73dddfe3fe William Peters Peters identifies four types of SDEs- Sensing a presence during a death, Witnessing phenomena like lights or spirits, Accompanying the dying into the afterlife, and Assisting in their transition. Peters recounts his own SDE with his father, which brought healing through a vivid life review and strengthened continuing bonds—a concept he champions over “letting go.” Through his Shared Crossing Project, he gathers research to destigmatize SDEs and integrate them into end-of-life care, emphasizing how mindfulness enhances receptivity to these profound experiences.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 13 Jun 2022 20:47:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/william-peters-nGmkmAxa Peters identifies four types of SDEs- Sensing a presence during a death, Witnessing phenomena like lights or spirits, Accompanying the dying into the afterlife, and Assisting in their transition. Peters recounts his own SDE with his father, which brought healing through a vivid life review and strengthened continuing bonds—a concept he champions over “letting go.” Through his Shared Crossing Project, he gathers research to destigmatize SDEs and integrate them into end-of-life care, emphasizing how mindfulness enhances receptivity to these profound experiences.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> William Peters Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 01:07:59 In this fascinating interview with researcher and author of At Heaven's Door, Peters highlights how Shared Death Experiences (SDEs) bridge science, spirituality, and therapy. He shares his journey from initial resistance to advocating for shared death experiences (SDEs), recognizing their therapeutic value for grieving individuals and caregivers as a new way to approach death, grief, and relationships with the deceased. In this fascinating interview with researcher and author of At Heaven's Door, Peters highlights how Shared Death Experiences (SDEs) bridge science, spirituality, and therapy. He shares his journey from initial resistance to advocating for shared death experiences (SDEs), recognizing their therapeutic value for grieving individuals and caregivers as a new way to approach death, grief, and relationships with the deceased. shared death experience, crossing over, therapy, healing, grief, dying, loss false full 7e7710f2-7c5c-43d8-b3bf-cf34742adbab Joanne Jacobson When Joanne Jacobson’s writing about her mother’s respiratory illness was interrupted by her own diagnosis of a rare blood disorder, her perspective profoundly altered. Every Last Breath follows these two chronic illnesses as they become unexpectedly intertwined. As chronic illness blurs the distinction between illness and wellness, she discovers how a lifetime of relapse and remission can invite transformation.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 14 Feb 2022 14:44:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/joanne-jacobson-4tXHZ46E When Joanne Jacobson’s writing about her mother’s respiratory illness was interrupted by her own diagnosis of a rare blood disorder, her perspective profoundly altered. Every Last Breath follows these two chronic illnesses as they become unexpectedly intertwined. As chronic illness blurs the distinction between illness and wellness, she discovers how a lifetime of relapse and remission can invite transformation.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Joanne Jacobson Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:31:21 Stephen Donadio, Editor-at-large for New England Review wrote: “Joanne Jacobson’s work combines an unfailing lucidity with a richness of texture and an emotional depth rarely encountered in the current literary environment...Her writing has the immediacy of lived experience and a quality of steady detachment that compels us to recognize the dimensions of awareness necessary if we are to make the most of our lives. In sum, hers is an achievement of a very high order.” Stephen Donadio, Editor-at-large for New England Review wrote: “Joanne Jacobson’s work combines an unfailing lucidity with a richness of texture and an emotional depth rarely encountered in the current literary environment...Her writing has the immediacy of lived experience and a quality of steady detachment that compels us to recognize the dimensions of awareness necessary if we are to make the most of our lives. In sum, hers is an achievement of a very high order.” false full 9a39a527-27a2-49b8-a6ce-b704c85533bd Barbara Becker Barbara Becker invites readers to live with death in mind and encouraging acceptance of impermanence by broadening the concept of loss to include experiences like divorce, becoming an empty nester, or losing cherished possessions. Drawing from hospice work, she highlights the power of presence and the resilience symbolized by heartwood, where loss sustains growth. Inspired by nature’s cycles and Atisha’s Nine Contemplations of Death, she reflects on how mindfulness deepens understanding of life’s fragility.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 6 Dec 2021 21:04:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/barbara-becker-HM2Nnhsx Barbara Becker invites readers to live with death in mind and encouraging acceptance of impermanence by broadening the concept of loss to include experiences like divorce, becoming an empty nester, or losing cherished possessions. Drawing from hospice work, she highlights the power of presence and the resilience symbolized by heartwood, where loss sustains growth. Inspired by nature’s cycles and Atisha’s Nine Contemplations of Death, she reflects on how mindfulness deepens understanding of life’s fragility.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Barbara Becker Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:29:19 Reflecting on how one's acceptance of mortality can enrich our lives by transforming perspectives and infusing mundane moments with beauty and mindfulness, Becker wants us prioritize what truly matters. In this interview, the author of *Heartwood: The Art of Living with the End in Mind* discusses important themes around life, death, mindfulness, and appreciation of the present moment are explored. Reflecting on how one's acceptance of mortality can enrich our lives by transforming perspectives and infusing mundane moments with beauty and mindfulness, Becker wants us prioritize what truly matters. In this interview, the author of *Heartwood: The Art of Living with the End in Mind* discusses important themes around life, death, mindfulness, and appreciation of the present moment are explored. heartwood false full 40e0f0fc-5c1a-43c5-829d-96e340dd5530 Koshin Paley Ellison Koshin has served as the co-director of Contemplative Care Services of the Department of Integrative Medicine and as the chaplaincy supervisor for the Pain and Palliative Care Department at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Medical Center, where he also served on the Medical Ethics Committee for eighteen years. With his husband, Chodo Campbell, he co-founded the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care, an educational non-profit dedicated to integrating contemplative approaches to care with contemporary medicine.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 13 Sep 2021 18:46:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/koshin-paley-ellison-bTy1XfHb Koshin has served as the co-director of Contemplative Care Services of the Department of Integrative Medicine and as the chaplaincy supervisor for the Pain and Palliative Care Department at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Medical Center, where he also served on the Medical Ethics Committee for eighteen years. With his husband, Chodo Campbell, he co-founded the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care, an educational non-profit dedicated to integrating contemplative approaches to care with contemporary medicine.

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]]> Koshin Paley Ellison Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:40:25 Host Devorah Medwin speaks with Zen teacher, Jungian psychotherapist and author of Wholehearted: Slow Down, Help Out, Wake Up and Awake at Bedside: Contemplative Teachings on Palliative and End of Life Care. Koshin Paley Ellison is recognized as one of today’s most thoughtful and trusted leaders in the contemplative medicine movement. Host Devorah Medwin speaks with Zen teacher, Jungian psychotherapist and author of Wholehearted: Slow Down, Help Out, Wake Up and Awake at Bedside: Contemplative Teachings on Palliative and End of Life Care. Koshin Paley Ellison is recognized as one of today’s most thoughtful and trusted leaders in the contemplative medicine movement. hospice, nyzen, buddist, whole hearted, compassionate care, contemplative care false full 69847e9d-4939-47a2-96ed-90d0a88562f8 Lydia Dugdale Dr. Dugdale reminds us to get in touch with our sense of finitude- our inevitable impermanence by embracing death literacy as a practice that will help everyone live better and die well.

"In this profound and compassionate book about death and its nearness, Dugdale demystifies one of the essential mysteries of our time." - Siddhartha Mukherjee, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Emperor of All Maladies and The Gene.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 15 Feb 2021 21:01:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/lydia-dugdale-CwqBpaEV Dr. Dugdale reminds us to get in touch with our sense of finitude- our inevitable impermanence by embracing death literacy as a practice that will help everyone live better and die well.

"In this profound and compassionate book about death and its nearness, Dugdale demystifies one of the essential mysteries of our time." - Siddhartha Mukherjee, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Emperor of All Maladies and The Gene.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Lydia Dugdale Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:26:16 As a specialist in medical ethics and the treatment of older patients, and author of The Lost Art of Dying, Dr. Lydia Dugdale knows a great deal about the end of life. In this episode, she speaks with host Devorah Medwin about how our culture has medicalized death, and in doing so, prolongs suffering. As a specialist in medical ethics and the treatment of older patients, and author of The Lost Art of Dying, Dr. Lydia Dugdale knows a great deal about the end of life. In this episode, she speaks with host Devorah Medwin about how our culture has medicalized death, and in doing so, prolongs suffering. false full cece222a-cc3e-416e-90ec-a0127ea0ae7d Barbara Coombs Lee Coombs Lee joined the Oregon Right to Die Political Action Committee that had already been working on draft bills, serving as spokesperson for the group through two statewide campaigns and 10 years defending against attacks on the nation's first Death with Dignity law in both the judicial and legislative arenas.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 7 Dec 2020 20:47:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/barbara-coombs-lee-lbCkEF8Y Coombs Lee joined the Oregon Right to Die Political Action Committee that had already been working on draft bills, serving as spokesperson for the group through two statewide campaigns and 10 years defending against attacks on the nation's first Death with Dignity law in both the judicial and legislative arenas.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Barbara Coombs Lee Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 01:01:24 Host Devorah Medwin speaks with right to die activist, author, and president emerita/senior adviser of Compassion & Choices, a national non-profit organization dedicated to expanding and protecting the rights of the terminally ill. In this episode she discusses life, loss and her memoir, Finish Strong: Putting Your Priorities First at Life's End. Staffing the Oregon Senate Healthcare and Bioethics committee in 1991, Coombs Lee helped Oregon State Senator Frank L. Roberts as he proposed one of the first aid in dying laws in the nation. Host Devorah Medwin speaks with right to die activist, author, and president emerita/senior adviser of Compassion & Choices, a national non-profit organization dedicated to expanding and protecting the rights of the terminally ill. In this episode she discusses life, loss and her memoir, Finish Strong: Putting Your Priorities First at Life's End. Staffing the Oregon Senate Healthcare and Bioethics committee in 1991, Coombs Lee helped Oregon State Senator Frank L. Roberts as he proposed one of the first aid in dying laws in the nation. compassion & choices, end of life choices, finish strong false full 3dba0311-aad9-4718-9aee-79a8b8e5d887 John Leland To quote the writer, Leland says: "I write substantial, often off-the-beaten-path articles about how life is lived in New York now. I look for stories that illustrate how larger cultural or demographic forces — aging, migration, climate change, economic upheaval, etc. — play out in the lives of ordinary New Yorkers. My work often involves people whose views or actions may be controversial or not easily understood by some of the public. I work to convey what their lives look like to them, without judgment or comment."

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 14 Sep 2020 18:57:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/john-leland-Og7m1U9x To quote the writer, Leland says: "I write substantial, often off-the-beaten-path articles about how life is lived in New York now. I look for stories that illustrate how larger cultural or demographic forces — aging, migration, climate change, economic upheaval, etc. — play out in the lives of ordinary New Yorkers. My work often involves people whose views or actions may be controversial or not easily understood by some of the public. I work to convey what their lives look like to them, without judgment or comment."

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> John Leland Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:40:13 In this episode, host Devorah Medwin interviews a NYT reporter and author whose beat is New York City, and interests favors the lives of older adults. In 2015, Leland began following six New Yorkers over the age of 85 through the end of their lives. It was that series which provided the basis for his book, “Happiness Is a Choice You Make: Lessons From a Year Among the Oldest Old.” In this episode, host Devorah Medwin interviews a NYT reporter and author whose beat is New York City, and interests favors the lives of older adults. In 2015, Leland began following six New Yorkers over the age of 85 through the end of their lives. It was that series which provided the basis for his book, “Happiness Is a Choice You Make: Lessons From a Year Among the Oldest Old.” nytimes, aging, journalist false full b7e81c7e-48d2-4f08-98d4-54a410e0ed73 Alexandra Vassilaros Host Devorah Medwin explores the effect of loss on Alexandra's career as an award-winning playwright. Following the passing of her beloved husband, she founded the Make Meaning Workshop, a writing-for-healing process  for navigating loss, grief, and crisis.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 2 Dec 2019 19:26:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/alexandra-vassilaros-VEy5uV1b Host Devorah Medwin explores the effect of loss on Alexandra's career as an award-winning playwright. Following the passing of her beloved husband, she founded the Make Meaning Workshop, a writing-for-healing process  for navigating loss, grief, and crisis.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Alexandra Vassilaros Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:32:58 As an award-winning playwright, Alexandra has spent a lifetime creating stories that connect us to our shared human condition. One year after the passing of her husband, she created the Make Meaning Workshop, a profoundly effective writing-for-healing process. As an award-winning playwright, Alexandra has spent a lifetime creating stories that connect us to our shared human condition. One year after the passing of her husband, she created the Make Meaning Workshop, a profoundly effective writing-for-healing process. grieving, grief, writing, loss, making meaning false full 8d957f7a-e6e4-41f9-b9f9-4c97a7b64ac5 Dr. Ira Byock With a focus on improving end-of-life care and addressing the human aspects of illness and dying, Dr. Byock discusses the shift to value-based healthcare, the **Institute for Human Caring** and its mission to enhance healthcare quality while reducing costs, emphasizing an American healthcare system that often prioritizes treatment over quality of life. Byock also encourages patients to view their lives as narratives, finding clarity and compassion in their experiences, while acknowledging caregivers’ challenges and the need for self-care. He underscores mindfulness and nurturing connections as vital to appreciating life before crises arise.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 3 Jun 2019 18:10:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-ira-byock-f31QTYP8 With a focus on improving end-of-life care and addressing the human aspects of illness and dying, Dr. Byock discusses the shift to value-based healthcare, the **Institute for Human Caring** and its mission to enhance healthcare quality while reducing costs, emphasizing an American healthcare system that often prioritizes treatment over quality of life. Byock also encourages patients to view their lives as narratives, finding clarity and compassion in their experiences, while acknowledging caregivers’ challenges and the need for self-care. He underscores mindfulness and nurturing connections as vital to appreciating life before crises arise.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Dr. Ira Byock Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:23:40 As a vocal advocate for change, Dr. Byock's impact on palliative care and the need for value-based healthcare has been profound. In this interview, Byock emphasizes meaningful care by reframing illness as more than a medical issue, accounting for its emotional and psychological dimensions, particularly for those nearing the end of life. Central to his message are published in his book, *Four Things That Matter Most*. As a vocal advocate for change, Dr. Byock's impact on palliative care and the need for value-based healthcare has been profound. In this interview, Byock emphasizes meaningful care by reframing illness as more than a medical issue, accounting for its emotional and psychological dimensions, particularly for those nearing the end of life. Central to his message are published in his book, *Four Things That Matter Most*. palliative care, palliative, end of life, hospice, care, book, death literacy false full 6d6146c8-dea2-4886-ac47-d0ca96f19fd7 Suzanne O'Brien As a former oncology nurse, O'Brien's career shifted towards education. She advocates for holistic elder care that prioritizes connection, quality of life, and elders’ wisdom, underscoring the healing power of presence and connection. She calls for reallocating resources from costly funerals to personalized care, while cautioning against over-regulating death doula services.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 15 Apr 2019 18:08:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/suzanne-obrien-3eqyB_xb As a former oncology nurse, O'Brien's career shifted towards education. She advocates for holistic elder care that prioritizes connection, quality of life, and elders’ wisdom, underscoring the healing power of presence and connection. She calls for reallocating resources from costly funerals to personalized care, while cautioning against over-regulating death doula services.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Suzanne O'Brien Host: Devorah Medwin Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:51:58 Founder of The International Doulagivers Institute, O'Brien emphasizes the important role of death doulas in our society- a growing cohort of non-medical professionals who offer emotional, physical, and spiritual support during the end of life period. Her teaching model and *Ask A Death Doula* podcast emphasizes preparation, promoting death literacy and advanced planning as critical ingredients for reducing crisis-driven decisions. Founder of The International Doulagivers Institute, O'Brien emphasizes the important role of death doulas in our society- a growing cohort of non-medical professionals who offer emotional, physical, and spiritual support during the end of life period. Her teaching model and *Ask A Death Doula* podcast emphasizes preparation, promoting death literacy and advanced planning as critical ingredients for reducing crisis-driven decisions. doula, death education, death literacy, death doula false full 78175a3d-34c5-4cf7-9a95-466936db1c5d 01 Frank Ostaseski Cofounder of the Zen Hospice Project and founder of the Metta Institute. Ostaseski has lectured at Harvard Medical School, the Mayo Clinic, Wisdom.2.0.  He views death as a constant teacher, a point of transformation not only for the dying but also for those who witness it. He teaches that in being fully present, especially during suffering, we can transform pain into compassion and shape how we live more authentically.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> Mon, 4 Feb 2019 15:28:00 +0000 bevivalpodcast@gmail.com (Devorah Medwin, Executive Producer: Caren Martineau) https://exitinterviews.simplecast.com/episodes/01-frank-ostaseski-oNT27y2J Cofounder of the Zen Hospice Project and founder of the Metta Institute. Ostaseski has lectured at Harvard Medical School, the Mayo Clinic, Wisdom.2.0.  He views death as a constant teacher, a point of transformation not only for the dying but also for those who witness it. He teaches that in being fully present, especially during suffering, we can transform pain into compassion and shape how we live more authentically.

Visit bevival.com to learn more about the author in our exclusive Exit Interview Q&A. 

]]> 01 Frank Ostaseski Devorah Medwin, Executive Producer: Caren Martineau 00:38:06 In Ostaseski's groundbreaking book, *The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully*, author/teacher advocates for active engagement with life by reflecting on how death informs our relationships. He stresses that death isn't just an event at the end of life but a constant presence that shapes our everyday experiences. Ostaseski lectures and teaches at major educational, medical and spiritual centers around the globe, In Ostaseski's groundbreaking book, *The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully*, author/teacher advocates for active engagement with life by reflecting on how death informs our relationships. He stresses that death isn't just an event at the end of life but a constant presence that shapes our everyday experiences. Ostaseski lectures and teaches at major educational, medical and spiritual centers around the globe, mindfulness, the five invitations, end of life, death, books, living fully false full