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  • 171 Understanding the Role of End-of-Life Doulas with Peter M. Abraham RN

    171 Understanding the Role of End-of-Life Doulas with Peter M. Abraham RN
    Jan 18 2026

    Understanding the Role of End-of-Life Doulas with Peter M. Abraham RN

    In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN is joined by returning guest Peter Abraham, a registered nurse and certified End-of-Life Doula. Peter discusses his journey and the nature of working as an end-of-life doula, highlighting the importance of this role in providing non-medical support to patients and families during the dying process. He also touches on the challenges of operating in an unregulated industry and shares insights from his work on advanced care planning. Marie and Peter discuss the distinctions between the roles of nurses and doulas, and Peter explains how he integrates his nursing skills with his doula work. The episode also offers guidance on how to choose a qualified doula and the importance of thorough research. Additionally, Peter discusses his advanced care planning services and resources available through his website, Compassion Crossing.

    00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained

    00:41 Meet Peter Abraham: A Dedicated Nurse

    01:53 Understanding the Role of a Death Doula

    02:37 Challenges and Ethics in the Doula Industry

    04:36 Differentiating Between Doula and Nursing Roles

    12:04 Advanced Care Planning: A Doula's Perspective

    18:05 Navigating the Doula Profession

    21:43 Peter Abraham's Publications and Future Plans

    23:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    https://compassioncrossing.info/

    If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice

    Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information

    Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast.

    Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com,
    When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119)

    When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You)

    Marie's Contact
    Marie@HospiceExplained.com
    www.HospiceExplained.com

    Finding a Hospice Agency

    1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency,

    2. choose Find provider

    3. Choose Hospice

    4. then add your zip code

    This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
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    24 Min.
  • 170 Understanding End-of-Life Decisions: The Importance of Hospice Education

    170 Understanding End-of-Life Decisions: The Importance of Hospice Education
    Jan 11 2026

    Understanding End-of-Life Decisions: The Importance of Hospice Education

    In this episode of 'Hospice Explained,' host Marie Betcher, a registered nurse and former hospice nurse, shares a poignant story about educating a family on the realities of CPR within hospice care. Through a real-life example, Marie emphasizes the importance of understanding hospice care and the end-of-life process. The episode highlights the need for proper communication and realistic expectations regarding life-saving measures like CPR. Marie also encourages listeners to seek further information from resources like polst.org and invites individuals with personal stories or expertise to join the podcast for future episodes.

    00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained

    00:29 Host Introduction and Purpose

    00:45 A Personal Story: Challenges with CPR

    02:15 Understanding CPR in Hospice Care

    03:24 The Importance of Saying Goodbye

    04:39 Resources and Final Thoughts

    POLST.ORG

    If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice

    Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information

    Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast.

    Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com,
    When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119)

    When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You)

    If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link

    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice


    Marie's Contact
    Marie@HospiceExplained.com
    www.HospiceExplained.com

    Finding a Hospice Agency

    1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency,

    2. choose Find provider

    3. Choose Hospice

    4. then add your zip code

    This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
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    6 Min.
  • 169 Understanding Deathbed Phenomena with Alison Potter RN

    169 Understanding Deathbed Phenomena with Alison Potter RN
    Jan 4 2026

    169 Understanding Deathbed Phenomena with Alison Potter RN

    In episode 169 of 'Hospice Explained,' host Alison Potter, a palliative RN, discusses various end-of-life experiences shared in previous episode number 12 of 'Hospice Encounters.' Alison, who runs grief support seminars and groups in Calgary, shares intriguing stories about deathbed phenomena, a field with scientific backing. These include patients sensing the presence of deceased loved ones or pets offering them comfort in their final moments. The episode emphasizes the importance of being curious and open to these experiences to provide peace and understanding to those nearing the end of their lives and their families. Alison also notes the significance of memorializing death stories positively for lasting impacts on families. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on the enriching aspects of end-of-life care and the myths surrounding deathbed phenomena.

    00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer

    00:29 Episode Introduction

    00:59 Guest Introduction: Alison Potter RN

    01:29 Alison's Work and Services

    01:47 Seminars and Support Groups

    02:53 Deathbed Phenomena

    04:38 Personal Stories of Deathbed Phenomena

    10:39 The Importance of Peaceful End-of-Life Experiences

    16:16 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    https://expectedoutcome.ca/

    If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice

    Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information

    Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast.

    Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com,
    When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119)

    When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You)

    If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link

    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice


    Marie's Contact
    Marie@HospiceExplained.com
    www.HospiceExplained.com

    Finding a Hospice Agency

    1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency,

    2. choose Find provider

    3. Choose Hospice

    4. then add your zip code

    This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
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    18 Min.
  • 168 Breaking Taboos: Talking About Death with Gabby Jimenez

    168 Breaking Taboos: Talking About Death with Gabby Jimenez
    Dec 28 2025
    168 Breaking Taboos: Talking About Death with Gabby Jimenez In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN, a registered nurse and former hospice nurse, interviews Gabrielle Jimenez, a hospice and palliative care nurse, end-of-life doula, grief educator, and author. Gabby shares her journey from commercial real estate to nursing, witnessing nearly 2000 last breaths, and discusses the importance of human-centered care in hospice. The episode also covers the challenges and rewards of starting a nursing career later in life, the need for earlier hospice care, and supporting parents losing a child. Highlighting Gabby's intention to create a safe place through her Facebook community 'The Hospice Heart,' this episode emphasizes the critical role of compassion and education in end-of-life care. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:46 Meet Gabrielle Jimenez: Hospice Nurse and Doula 02:01 Gabrielle's Journey to Hospice Care 10:12 The Role of a Doula in End-of-Life Care 17:01 Challenges and Changes in Hospice Care 21:38 The Importance of Discussing Death and Dying 24:04 Celebrating Life and Death in New Orleans 24:37 Organizing Funeral Food 25:51 A Funny Story About My Dad's Funeral 27:20 Reflecting on My Mother's Death 29:13 Dealing with Family Drama During Funerals 32:12 Advice for Handling Grief and Family Dynamics 39:08 Supporting Parents Losing a Child 43:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://www.thehospiceheart.net/ If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You) If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
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    45 Min.
  • 167 Exploring Compassionate Hospice Care with Max Labutin

    167 Exploring Compassionate Hospice Care with Max Labutin
    Dec 21 2025
    167 Exploring Compassionate Hospice Care with Max Labutin In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN, a former hospice nurse, interviews Max Labutin, founder of Maximum Care Hospice Incorporated. Max shares his journey into hospice care, inspired by personal loss and a calling to provide compassionate, family-centered hospice services. He discusses his company's commitment to high-quality care regardless of patients' socioeconomic backgrounds and highlights the importance of planning ahead for end-of-life care. Max also touches on the spiritual and emotional aspects of hospice, sharing heartwarming stories and insights on how to support families through this profound phase of life. The episode emphasizes the need for education and preparedness to ensure the best possible care for loved ones. 00:00 Introduction to Hospice Explained 00:45 Meet Max Labutin: Founder of Maximum Care Hospice 02:50 Max's Journey into Hospice Care 05:12 The Importance of Choosing the Right Hospice 07:50 Special Services and Staff at Maximum Care Hospice 13:43 Heartwarming Stories and Spiritual Insights 16:19 Family Involvement and Personal Reflections 17:47 Planning Ahead for Hospice Care 27:28 Cultural Perspectives on Death and Hospice 28:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://www.maximumcarehospice.com/ If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You) If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
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    29 Min.
  • 166 Rachel Waters' Journey: From Care Giving Tragedy to Legal Advocacy

    166 Rachel Waters' Journey: From Care Giving Tragedy to Legal Advocacy
    Dec 14 2025
    166 Rachel Waters' Journey: From Care Giving Tragedy to Legal Advocacy In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN interviews Rachel Waters. Rachel shares her harrowing journey that began when she was indicted for the death of her mother while she was acting as her caregiver during hospice. Prosecutors alleged she had administered a lethal dose of morphine, leading to charges of murder and the possibility of the death penalty. Rachel describes the 19-month legal and emotional ordeal, the eventual dropping of charges, and how she is now channeling her experience into advocating for Marsha's Law — aimed at protecting family caregivers administering end-of-life medications. Rachel's story highlights the urgent need for compassionate policy reform and systematic change in hospice care protocols. 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 00:28 Meet the Host: Marie Betcher RN 00:43 Introducing Rachel Waters 02:23 Rachel's Story Begins 03:48 Early Signs of Trouble 05:30 A Rapid Decline 06:28 Entering Hospice Care 09:02 The Final Days 09:58 A Shocking Turn of Events 15:34 Legal Nightmare Begins 20:53 Facing Charges and Seeking Help 22:38 Turning Herself In Rachel go fund me: https://gofund.me/77e3e7ad9 If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You) If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
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    49 Min.
  • 165 A Rhythm to Remember: Enhancing End-of-Life Care

    165 A Rhythm to Remember: Enhancing End-of-Life Care
    Dec 7 2025
    If you want to help, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice 165 A Rhythm to Remember: Enhancing End-of-Life Care In this episode of Hospice Explained, host Marie Betcher RN interviews Daniel DeLoma, a hospice chaplain and founder of Meditative Heartbeat Therapy. They discuss how this integrative approach helps patients achieve calm and comfort during end-of-life care. Daniel provides insights into the methods used in heartbeat therapy, its origins, and how it complements traditional care practices. The episode delves into the emotional and spiritual aspects of dying, illustrating the unique benefits of this therapeutic approach. They also touch on the importance of incorporating various forms of support for the patient, including the role of family and healthcare providers. 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 00:29 Meet Your Host: Marie Betcher RN 00:47 Introducing Daniel DeLoma and Meditative Heartbeat Therapy 03:12 The Origins of Meditative Heartbeat Therapy 05:20 Implementing Meditative Heartbeat Therapy in Hospice Care 06:09 The Role of Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy 10:00 Practical Applications and Future Directions 23:23 Funny Anecdotes and Personal Stories 25:37 Challenges and Improvements in Hospice Care 28:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://www.heartbeattherapy.com/ Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast. Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com, When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119) When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You) If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained at the Buy me a Coffee link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice Marie's Contact Marie@HospiceExplained.com www.HospiceExplained.com Finding a Hospice Agency 1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency, 2. choose Find provider 3. Choose Hospice 4. then add your zip code This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
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    30 Min.
  • 164 Embracing Life Through Loss: A Conversation with Andy Chaleff

    164 Embracing Life Through Loss: A Conversation with Andy Chaleff
    Nov 30 2025

    164 Embracing Life Through Loss: A Conversation with Andy Chaleff

    In this insightful episode of Hospice Explained (Episode 164), host Marie Betcher RN interviews Andy Chaleff, an award-winning author and speaker whose work delves into grief, love, and transformation. They discuss Chaleff's book 'Dying to Live,' his personal journey through loss, and the impactful experiences that shaped his writing. Chaleff shares his motivations, the profound loss of his mother, and the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity. Together, they explore themes of forgiveness, the importance of silence, and how to find peace and meaning in life's most challenging moments.

    00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast

    00:28 Meet the Host: Marie Betcher RN

    00:46 Guest Introduction: Andy Chaleff

    01:47 Andy's Motivation for Writing 'Dying to Live'

    02:28 Personal Tragedy: The Loss of Andy's Mother

    04:17 The Last Letter: Inspiration and Impact

    06:09 Living with Urgency: Lessons from Loss

    18:13 The Role of Silence in Healing

    21:48 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

    28:52 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

    https://www.amazon.com/Dying-Live-Finding-Meaning-Spiritual/dp/B0FH1JJGLG

    If you would, you can donate to help support Hospice Explained please use the Buy me a Coffee link

    https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hospice

    Hospice Explained Affiliates & Contact Information

    Buying from these Affilite links will help support this Podcast.

    Maire introduces a partnership with Suzanne Mayer RN inventor of the cloud9caresystem.com,
    When patients remain in the same position for extended periods, they are at high risk of developing pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores. One of the biggest challenges caregivers face is the tendency for pillows and repositioning inserts to easily dislodge during care.(Suzanne is a former guest on Episode #119)

    When you order with Cloud 9 care system, please tell them you heard about them from Hospice Explained.(Thank You)


    Marie's Contact
    Marie@HospiceExplained.com
    www.HospiceExplained.com

    Finding a Hospice Agency

    1. You can use Medicare.gov to help find a hospice agency,

    2. choose Find provider

    3. Choose Hospice

    4. then add your zip code

    This should be a list of Hospice Agencies local to you or your loved one.
    Mehr anzeigen Weniger anzeigen
    29 Min.