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The thought-provoking podcast that will challenge your perspective on life... and death

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About

Hosted by Critical Info Founder, Catherine Ashton, listen to soul-stirring stories told by people who have experienced the death of a loved one. Learn from interviews with experts in the deathcare industry, from funeral directors to trauma cleaners.

Don’t Be Caught Dead podcast launched on 
22 February 2024. Follow us on your favourite podcast player so you don’t miss an episode.

About

About

Hosted by Critical Info Founder, Catherine Ashton, listen to soul-stirring stories told by people who have experienced the death of a loved one. Learn from interviews with experts in the deathcare industry, from funeral directors to trauma cleaners.

Don’t Be Caught Dead podcast launched on 
22 February 2024. Follow us on your favourite podcast player so you don’t miss an episode.

Episodes

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Bridging Life and Death: Tamil Mourning Traditions Explained
Have you ever wondered how different cultures navigate the complex emotions surrounding death? In this episode, we dive deep into...
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Death, DNA, and Family Secrets: How Trauma Lives in Our Genes
What if the unexplained feelings of grief, anxiety, or disconnection you carry aren’t entirely your own? In this compelling episode,...
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Talking Death, Diversity, and Inclusion in Care with Tonina Gucciardo-Masci and Nikolaus Rittinghausen
How do we ensure that every individual, regardless of their cultural or spiritual background, receives dignified and inclusive care at...
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200 Hours of Death Admin: Why Executors Deserve More Support
Did you know it can take over 200 hours to manage the responsibilities of an executor?  For Danielle Phillips, losing...
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Facing Life’s Toughest Moments: Can Social Support Make the Difference?
Are you feeling disconnected in our modern world? You’re not alone. In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the...
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After the Worst Has Happened: Tales From a Funeral Director, Richard Gosling
In this episode, we dive into the journey of Richard Gosling—a man who left the safe world of civil service...
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Do You Really Want to Be a Carer? The Question Nobody Asks
Imagine caring for someone for over 20 years without anyone ever asking if you want to be their carer. It...
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Honouring Life Through Trees: The Legacy of Mornington Green
In this episode, I chat with Luke Roberts of Mornington Green Legacy Gardens, a unique final resting place that’s revolutionising how...
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Ghosts, Graves, and Gossip: Uncovering Sorrento’s Haunted History
Ever wondered what it’s like to chat with ghosts for a living? Join me as I sit down with Jenny...
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Cheating Death: The Cryonics Revolution in Australia
Ever wondered what it would be like to wake up 200 years in the future, in a young, healthy body...
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No Rules, No Rush: The Last Hurrah’s Philosophy on Modern Funerals
Ever wondered what it’s like to plan a funeral in a golf course or use a combi van as a...
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From Schizophrenia to Leading A Walk For Life: Transforming a Brother’s Death into Purpose
In this deeply moving episode, we explore the heart-wrenching journey of Sarah Eagle, a neurodivergent public speaker and consultant, who...
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Death, Dreaming, and Community: Aboriginal Funeral Traditions Unveiled
In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the heart of Aboriginal funeral traditions with Kaneesha Wise from the Aboriginal...
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Finding Strength in Loss: Emily Kisvarda’s Journey through Grief, Healing, and Higher Consciousness
In today’s episode, I sit down with Emily Kisvarda, an integrated healer, alchemist, author, teacher and spiritual guide, to discuss...
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The Coffin Confessor: Crashing Funerals and Exposing Truths from Beyond the Grave
From Troubled Past to Funeral Crasher: Meet Bill Edgar, Australia’s Infamous Coffin Confessor In this gripping episode, I sit down...
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Dead for 93 Minutes: Cardiac Arrest Survival after Near-death Experience (NDE) with Justine Phillips
In this compelling episode of “Don’t Be Caught Dead,” host Catherine Ashton dives into a remarkable story of survival and...
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Death on Your Terms: Navigating Voluntary Assisted Dying with Jane Morris
In this episode of “Don’t Be Caught Dead”, I sit down with Jane Morris, President of Dying with Dignity Victoria,...
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From Tragedy to Transformation: How Three Mates are Revolutionising Mental Health Conversations
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode covers the topic of suicide. In a world where mental health struggles often go unspoken, three...
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Eco-Friendly Farewells: Water Cremation’s Splash in the Deathcare Industry
Ever wondered if there’s a kinder way to say goodbye to your loved ones? Most of us are aware of...
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A Grief Counsellor’s Personal and Professional Reflections on Grief and Loss
Have you ever wondered what to say to someone who’s grieving? Or felt unsure about how to handle your own...
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Breaking the Stigma of Loneliness: The Hidden Epidemic with Dr. Michelle Lim
In honour of Dying to Know Day and Loneliness Awareness Week Australia, this week I chat with Associate Professor Michelle...
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Breaking Myths About Organ Donation with Sam Stones
This week is DonateLife Week (Sunday 28 July – Sunday 4 August 2024), and I’ve had the honour of speaking...
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Secure Your Legacy: Clear Legal Advice from Greg Russo
Ever wondered what legal documents you need to have in place before you die? Or how to handle your assets...
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The Power of Community: Transforming Funerals with Tender Funerals
Today we’re talking about a revolutionary approach to farewelling our loved ones, pioneered by an extraordinary guest. Meet Jennifer Briscoe-Hough,...
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NAIDOC 2024: Celebrating Indigenous Stories and Heritage with Aunty Jill West
In honour of NAIDOC week 2024, the theme:  Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud honours the enduring strength...
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From Life to Death: Understanding Human Behaviour with Anthropologist Dr Hannah Gould
Ever wondered what an anthropologist who studies death really does? Join me as I chat with Dr Hannah Gould, a...
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Peaceful Exits and Recovering Well After Loss with Libby Moloney
In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers of holistic death care with Libby Moloney, a pioneer in sustainable and...
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Helping Kids Navigate Loss with Lionheart Camp for Kids
Just imagine being a young child, navigating through the unimaginable loss of a loved one. Feelings of isolation, confusion, and...
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Life’s Too Short For BS: Authenticity Lessons From A Birth And Death Doula
Would you pack up your life in a moment to go to Cambodia and make a difference there?  Would you...
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The Charity Helping Grieving Kids Feel The Magic Again
Join us as we dive deep with Kristy and James Thomas, the compassionate founders of ‘Feel the Magic,’ an organisation...
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The Future of Funerals: Insights from Kelly Scott, President of Australian Funeral Directors Association
Ever wondered what it’s like to grow up in a family of funeral directors? Join me as I chat with...
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Embracing Life to the Fullest End with Camilla Rowland, CEO Palliative Care Australia
Today, during National Palliative Care Week, we’re joined by Camilla Rowland, CEO of Palliative Care Australia, who brings decades of...
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Mortality and Mindfulness with Annie Whitlocke, Buddhist Death Doula
Annie Whitlocke is a death doula with a rich history of embracing life’s trials with an open heart. Annie shares...
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Funerals: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. Insights from Jackie Slater
Welcome to another episode of ‘Don’t Be Caught Dead’ where we shine a light on the topic many of us...
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Bringing Life to Death: A candid conversation with end-of-life doula Helen Callanan
Do you crave captivating conversation about the things that REALLY matter? Then you can’t go past listening to a seasoned...
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Funeral Poverty: A Rising Crisis Unveiled with Kieran Worthington & Kevin Hartley
This episode focuses on the escalating issue of funeral poverty and debt. I speak with Kieran Worthington and Kevin Hartley,...
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Reclaiming death back into our own hands & hearts with Deathwalker Zenith Virago
In this episode, I speak with a pioneer in the deathcare industry, Zenith Virago. Zenith is the founder and executive...
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‘Grace’: Death, Dollars, and Deceit: Unravelling a Family’s Feud
What happens when some family members see dollar signs in death? How do you navigate such a fraught situation? In...
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Sorting Through Memories: Decluttering After Death with Arwen Dropmann
I had the pleasure of interviewing Arwen Dropmann, a skilled professional organiser with a background in social work. Arwen is...
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A Brother’s Experience with Suicide and Parental Death with James Robinson
Welcome to another episode of ‘Don’t Be Caught Dead’! This week, we delve into an incredibly raw and honest conversation...
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The Last Dance: Death During COVID Lockdowns with Susan Bollard
Have you ever pondered the experience of facing the end of a loved one’s life? In this episode, we share...
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Navigating the End: A Funeral Director’s Perspective
Have you ever pondered over what it’s like to confront death each day? Today we offer a captivating chat with...
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Rebecca Lyons: Advocating for Home Funerals and Family-Centric Death Care
You’ve probably heard of the term ‘doula’ before, often used in the context of those who support birthing mothers. But...
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Navigating Life After Loss: A Daughter’s Tale with Libby Neesham
Episode 2 In this episode, I’m bringing you a conversation that’s both emotional and enlightening. I had the pleasure of...
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Caring Beyond COVID: Untold Stories of Doctors with Dr. Renee Stamation
Episode 1 Today’s conversation is one that’s close to my heart, and I believe it will touch yours too. I...

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Testimonials

What our community is saying

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“The prototype truly does reflect Catherine's vision and the problems at hand. Upon further validation, through focus groups, the prototype has been refined to get as close to that product market fit as possible.”
Otto Tatton, Commercial Director, Hyper HQ
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“As someone who has seen the behind-the-scenes development of "Critical Info," I am genuinely excited about its potential impact. This app isn’t just a tool; it’s a testament to thoughtful, user-centric design and development. I eagerly anticipate its launch and am confident that it will offer a truly enriching user experience.”

Vicky Solopotias
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“Good on you and keep doing what you're doing. Catherine It's a great initiative”.
Dr Renee Stamation Emergency Doctor
Podcast Guest
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“There's a heap of decisions to make. So I think what you're trying to create is a really fantastic space for people. Particularly if I do get to plan before someone passes via an illness or whatever. If they've got time; an absolutely wonderful resource for someone to delve into to prepare.” 
James Robinson
Podcast Guest
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“I think we can't talk about this enough. So I'm really want to say Be proud of yourself for having the initiative. Because if I had had access to something like this in the past, it would have been a really powerful support for me, I think so I'm grateful that you're doing it and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story.”
Libby Neesham
Podcast Guest

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