End-of-Life Conversation with Barbara Karnes, RN

Seeing Death Clearly

Seeing Death Clearly
End-of-Life Conversation with Barbara Karnes, RN
Dec 14, 2025 Episode 141
Jill McClennen

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In this episode, I welcome back Barbara Karnes to discuss the journey of transitioning from 'we' to 'me' after her husband Jack's death. 

Barbara shares heartfelt stories about her early days in hospice care, highlighting the value of understanding daily responsibilities and her experiences with end-of-life preparations, emphasizing the importance of discussing finances and duties early. 

We also discuss how death doulas play a role in modern hospice care, her thoughts on medical aid in dying, the creation of her widely beneficial booklets like 'Gone From My Sight,' and offers perspectives on educating families about the natural process of dying. 

This episode aims to open minds and demystify death, dying, and grief, encouraging listeners to prepare and embrace end-of-life conversations.


00:00 Introduction to End of Life Education

00:45 Guest Introduction: Barbara Carnes

01:35 Adjusting to Life After Loss

02:56 The Importance of Being Prepared

04:18 Challenges of Living Independently

07:10 Support Systems and Grief Counseling

08:54 End of Life Doulas and Hospice Care

13:31 Medical Aid in Dying: Perspectives and Ethics

00:00 Comparing Birth and Death

25:39 Contemplating Mortality and Legacy

27:12 Current Projects and Writing

28:07 The Importance of Food at End of Life

30:28 The Family Support Bundle

33:11 The Origin of 'Gone From My Sight'

36:11 Personal Stories and Impact

40:04 The Shift Back to Home Deaths

43:48 Resources and Contact Information

46:17 Final Thoughts and Farewell


https://bkbooks.com/products/approaching-death-support-kit


https://bkbooks.com/blogs/something-to-think-about


https://www.instagram.com/barbarakarnesrn/


https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbarakarnesrn/



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