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Ask A Death Doula #

156

From Pharmacy Tech to Full Time End of Life Doula —How Following Your Calling is Priceless

 Released: 12/03/2025

 Guest: Michelle Donaldson

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Episode Show Notes

THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O’Brien RN in Conversation with Michelle Donaldson.

Michelle Donaldson, a certified end-of-life doula from Doulagivers Institute, joins this episode of “Ask a Death Doula” to share her profound insights into hospice care. Her journey from advanced EMT and pharmacy technician to end-of-life doula reflects her deep commitment to holistic, dignified support. Inspired by her own parents’ hospice experiences, she now works with a dedicated hospice team in Las Vegas to blend non-medical guidance with traditional care, creating a more personal and transformative experience for patients and their families.

Education and empathy shine throughout our conversation as Michelle highlights the gaps families often face within the hospice system. She emphasizes the importance of preparing and supporting family caregivers—those who carry much of the emotional and physical load. Through her compassionate training, real-life stories, and collaboration with the hospice team, Michelle helps families navigate end-of-life challenges with confidence, connection, and cultural sensitivity. Her work shows the invaluable impact doulas can have in turning overwhelming moments into peaceful, meaningful memories—and she invites anyone drawn to this mission to join the growing movement of compassionate end-of-life support.

(00:02) The Role of End-of-Life Doulas
(05:20) Improving End-of-Life Care Through Education
(13:48) Making an Impact in End-of-Life Care
(20:11) Navigating End-of-Life Care Conversations
(24:07) Transforming End-of-Life Care Together
(37:00) Join the Death Doula Movement

 

:purple_heart: Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here

:purple_heart: Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE

:purple_heart: Or visit our website here!

Meet our guest: Michelle Donaldson

Website: Open Arms Doula

 

:raised_hands:Please Share!
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Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube

:email:  JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE  :email:
This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O’Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education
Join Here: 4491664174178077

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