The Only Guarantee

Trust the Death Doula

Episode Summary

Who's Dr. Kim Rich, and why should you trust her with griefy things? In this episode of The Only Guarantee podcast, co-hosts Holly Hutchings and Dr. Kimberly Rich dive deep into Dr. Rich's story. As a death doula and grief expert, Dr. Rich shares her personal and professional journey, including the loss of her mother and how it propelled her into the field of death and bereavement. They discuss the unique aspects of her work, the importance of engaging with and educating about death from a young age, and how she uses humor to navigate difficult conversations. This episode offers insight into the practicalities of death preparation, her doctoral research, and the emotional chaos of grieving.

Episode Notes

Meet Dr. Kimberly Rich: A Journey into Death and Grief Work

In this episode of The Only Guarantee podcast, co-hosts Holly Hutchings and Dr. Kimberly Rich dive deep into Dr. Rich's story. As a death doula and grief expert, Dr. Rich shares her personal and professional journey, including the loss of her mother and how it propelled her into the field of death and bereavement. They discuss the unique aspects of her work, the importance of engaging with and educating about death from a young age, and how she uses humor to navigate difficult conversations. This episode offers insight into the practicalities of death preparation, her doctoral research, and the emotional chaos of grieving.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:28 Meet Dr. Kimberly Rich

02:17 The Importance of Trust in Grief Conversations

04:18 Kimberly's Journey to Becoming a Death Doula

05:37 The Impact of Personal Loss on Career Path

08:41 Challenges and Frustrations with Bereavement Policies

14:52 Defending the Dissertation

21:58 Realizing a Lifelong Connection to Grief

28:05 Discovering the Role of a Death Doula

31:06 The Journey to Becoming a Death Doula

31:38 End of Life Care: Creating Comfort

35:29 Planning Your Own Funeral

38:21 Grief Work and Community Support

49:33 Building a Community Around Grief

53:45 The Importance of Talking About Death

59:17 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts