We’ve finished the first session of Life’s Last Chapter! I’m now preparing our next session, which will focus on grief—exploring how it affects us and the ways we can support one another through it.

Planning, Paperwork, and Peace of Mind – A Conversation with Pauline About End-of-Life Documents Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 2 Episode #: 2 Guest: Pauline Show Notes: In this practical and heartfelt episode, I sit down with Pauline to explore the important documents that can help make your wishes clear and ease the burden on loved ones after you’re gone. From wills and enduring power of attorney to advance care directives and funeral planning, Pauline shares valuable insights into how these tools work — and why putting them in place matters so much. We also reflect on our own personal experiences with loss and planning, highlighting just how powerful these conversations can be. The biggest message in this episode? Communicate your wishes and put them in writing. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to take care of your family, even after you’re gone. Topics Discussed: Essential end-of-life documents: wills, powers of attorney, advance care plans The importance of early conversations with family Personal stories that shaped our views on planning ahead What happens when no documents are in place Small steps that make a big difference during grief Links & Resources: Learn more about advance care planning: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/ Listen to more episodes at: https://lifeslastchapter.com.au/

Episode Title: Behind the Curtain – A Conversation with Brad, Funeral Director’s Assistant & Mortician Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode #: 10 Guest: Brad Coulter, Funeral Director’s Assistant, Mortician, and Musician Show Notes: In this fascinating and wide-ranging episode, I speak with Brad, a funeral director’s assistant and mortician who offers a rare and honest behind-the-scenes look at what really happens in the funeral industry. Brad shares stories from his work — the practical, the emotional, and even the spiritual — and talks about the quiet care that goes into preparing someone for their final farewell. We also explore some of the unexplained and supernatural experiences he’s witnessed along the way, reminding us that death, like life, often holds mystery. Beyond the funeral home, Brad is also the talented composer behind the original music featured on this podcast. He opens up about how creativity and meaning-making intertwine in his work with the dead and the living. Topics Discussed: The day-to-day role of a funeral director’s assistant and mortician What really happens behind the scenes at a funeral home The quiet rituals of care and dignity for the deceased Unusual and unexplained moments in the funeral industry The emotional and spiritual side of working so closely with death Brad’s creative work as BJCoulter and how music helps process grief Links & Resources: 🎵 Explore Brad’s music: https://music.apple.com/.../through-and.../1813590512...

Episode Title: Creating Awareness – A Conversation with Sarah Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode #: 10 Guest: Sarah, Host of the Creating Awareness Podcast Show Notes: In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Sarah, creator and host of the Creating Awareness podcast. Together, we explore the power of self-awareness—how it shapes our lives, influences our relationships, and connects to our beliefs about death, heaven, and hell. Sarah shares her personal journey with honesty and vulnerability, reflecting on the moments that led her to start her own podcast and the lessons she’s learning along the way. This is a deep and moving conversation that invites listeners to pause, reflect, and become more conscious of the stories they live by. Watch one of Sarah’s interviews here: 👉 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aMYCkIqBics Tune in for an episode that bridges the personal and the spiritual, the everyday and the eternal.

Episode Title: Service, Sacrifice, and Remembrance – A Conversation with Phil from the RSL Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode: 8 Guest: Phil [Insert Last Name], RSL Representative Show Notes: In this meaningful and candid episode, we sit down with Phil from the Returned and Services League (RSL) to discuss how the organisation honours veterans at the end of life, including those lost to suicide — a deeply important and often hidden aspect of military service. Phil shares the rich history and mission of the RSL, its ongoing support for veterans and their families, and how the organisation helps navigate the unique challenges surrounding veteran suicide. We explore the symbolism and traditions of military funerals, the emotional and practical care offered, and Phil’s personal connection to this vital work. This episode shines a light on remembrance in all its forms, the importance of support networks, and how we can better care for those who have served, including addressing the stigma and grief around suicide. Topics Discussed: The role of the RSL in funeral and memorial services for veterans Supporting families affected by veteran suicide The symbolism and traditions of military funerals Phil’s personal story and connection to the veteran community The ongoing work of remembrance, healing, and suicide prevention How to engage with or support your local RSL and veteran mental health initiatives

Episode Title: Culture, Ceremony, and Connection – A Conversation with Aboriginal Funeral Celebrant Faye Clarke Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode: 7 Guest: Faye Clarke, Aboriginal Funeral Celebrant Show Notes: In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we speak with Faye Clarke, an Aboriginal funeral celebrant who brings deep cultural wisdom, personal experience, and spiritual care to her work. Faye shares stories from her childhood and community, offering a glimpse into the richness of Aboriginal culture and the role it plays in honouring life and death. We explore the unique traditions and customs of Aboriginal funerals, how they differ from Western practices, and how connection to land, spirit, and family is at the heart of these ceremonies. Faye also reflects on her personal journey, her calling to celebrancy, and what it means to walk with families during their most sacred moments. Topics Discussed: Faye’s family background and cultural upbringing The differences between Aboriginal and Western funeral practices The importance of connection to Country and Ancestors Community roles in mourning and celebration Faye’s path to becoming a celebrant and her role today The need for cultural understanding in end-of-life care Honouring traditions while supporting modern grieving families

Episode Title: Honouring Tiny Lives – Chrissy’s Story and the Mission of Babies Above Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode: 6 Guest: Chrissy [Insert Last Name], Founder of Babies Above Show Notes: In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Chrissy, the founder of Babies Above — a heartfelt initiative supporting families who have experienced the devastating loss of a baby. Chrissy shares the powerful personal story that led her to start the organisation, and how Babies Above has grown into a vital support system for grieving parents in the community. We talk about the practical and emotional support they offer, how they’re helping families honour and remember their little ones, and the important role fundraising plays in expanding their reach. Chrissy also speaks openly about the grief journey and the healing that can come from connection, remembrance, and community care. Topics Discussed: How Babies Above began and Chrissy’s personal motivation The services and support they offer to grieving families Building community around baby loss and remembrance Fundraising efforts and the impact of donations Future goals for expanding outreach and support Breaking the silence around infant loss with love and compassion Links & Resources: 💜 Learn more about Babies Above: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564841249560

Episode Title: Cremation, Care, and Clarity – A Cemetery Perspective with Alex Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode: 5 Guest: Alex [Insert Last Name], Cemetery Professional Show Notes: In this eye-opening episode, we speak with Alex, a dedicated professional who works at the cemetery and specializes in cremation services. Alex offers a respectful and transparent behind-the-scenes look at what really happens during the cremation process, demystifying common misconceptions and helping us understand the care involved at every step. With warmth and honesty, Alex talks about her role in supporting grieving families, ensuring each person is treated with dignity, and managing the technical and emotional responsibilities that come with cremation. She also touches on the logistics of memorials, urn burials, and how cemetery teams work to honour final wishes with precision and compassion. Topics Discussed: The step-by-step cremation process from a cemetery perspective The care taken to respect each individual and their family Behind-the-scenes insight into crematory and cemetery practices Navigating paperwork, urn burials, and final placements Helping families understand their options The emotional reality of working with death every day New trends and questions around cremation and sustainability

Episode Title: A Calling to Serve – Father Ed’s Journey to the Priesthood Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode: 4 Guest: Father Ed Moloney Show Notes: In this episode, we sit down with Father Ed Moloney, a Catholic priest whose journey to the priesthood has spanned decades and continents. With warmth and humility, Father Ed shares how he first felt the call to serve, what led him to answer it, and the role that faith and community play in the final stages of life. Whether you’re spiritual, curious about the priesthood, or simply interested in the stories of those who guide others through life’s last chapter, this episode offers a heartfelt look into the vocation of a man who has walked alongside many during their most vulnerable moments. Topics Discussed: Father Ed’s personal journey to the priesthood The role of a priest at the end of life Reflections on grief, love, and community Spiritual care for the dying and their families What gives meaning in the final chapter of life Links & Resources: 📍 Learn more about St Patrick’s Cathedral in Ballarat: https://www.ballarat.catholic.org.au/parish/st-patricks-cathedral-parish-ballarat/

Episode Title: Comfort, Care, and Compassion – A Conversation with Palliative Nurse Stacie Nawodycz Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode: 3 Guest: Stacie Nawodycz, Palliative Care Nurse Show Notes: In this heartfelt and informative episode, we sit down with Stacie Nawodycz, a dedicated palliative care nurse who brings compassion, skill, and humanity to her work with patients nearing the end of life. Stacie shares what palliative care really means, how it differs from hospice, and the crucial role it plays in helping people live as comfortably and meaningfully as possible in their final chapter. From managing pain and medications to helping families navigate the healthcare system, Stacie offers valuable insights into how palliative care supports not just the patient, but everyone around them. She also talks about the importance of making clients feel safe and comfortable, building trust, and being a steady presence during a deeply emotional time. Topics Discussed: What palliative care is (and isn’t) The emotional and physical needs of patients at end-of-life Making clients comfortable – physically, emotionally, and spiritually Navigating resources and advocating for patient needs Understanding and managing medications for comfort and symptom control The human side of caregiving, including building trust with families Why palliative care matters, even early in a diagnosis

Episode Title: Celebrating a Life – A Conversation with Funeral Celebrant Michael Orchard Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode: 2 Guest: Michael Orchard Show Notes: In this episode, we speak with Michael Orchard, a professional funeral celebrant with a gift for storytelling and a heart for helping families honour their loved ones. Michael shares his journey into celebrancy, what drew him to this meaningful work, and how he helps families navigate one of life’s most tender transitions. We also delve into the evolving landscape of funeral traditions — including the idea of living funerals, where people choose to celebrate their lives while they’re still here. Michael discusses the importance of recording your wishes, how to honour someone with a complicated story, and why every person deserves to be remembered with care and dignity. Topics Discussed: How Michael became a funeral celebrant What makes a funeral meaningful and personal The concept of living funerals Recording your funeral wishes ahead of time Crafting ceremonies that reflect the whole person Holding space for both grief and celebration

Episode Title: Welcome to Life’s Last Chapter – Trailer Podcast: Life’s Last Chapter: A Podcast About Life, Death, and Everything In Between Season: 1 Episode: Trailer Host: Kellie Sleep Show Notes: Welcome to Life’s Last Chapter — a podcast about life, death, and everything in between. I’m Kellie, and in this series, we explore what really happens in the final chapter of life. Whether you’re facing it yourself, supporting someone you love, or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this podcast opens the door to honest conversations that are too often left unspoken. You’ll hear from funeral celebrants, priests, palliative care nurses, cemetery workers, and more — people who walk alongside others during one of the most emotional and meaningful times in life. Together, we’ll explore topics like hospice and palliative care, funerals, cremations, living wills, grief, legacy, and love. Because death isn’t just an ending — it’s a deeply human part of life. And talking about it can be one of the most powerful ways to live more fully. What to Expect: Real stories from people working in end-of-life care Practical advice and emotional insight A gentle, open-hearted look at a topic we all face eventually