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by Abode Contemplative Care For The Dying
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- Nov 17, 202538 min
The Art and Soul of Sanctuary: Abode Co-Founders Edwin and Patsy Sasek on Weaving Beauty into End-of-Life Care
For the final episode of the season, host Natalie Buster sits down with the visionaries behind Abode Contemplative Care for the Dying: co-founders Edwin and Patsy Sasek.Edwin and Patsy share the journey of creating Abode, a space that many guests, staff, and volunteers describe not just as a facility, but as "coming home". They detail how their vision transcended mere caregiving, instead weaving their profound love of art, nature, and spirituality into the very foundation of the building.Learn about the spiritual significance of the property's design, including the over 20 oak trees whose roots symbolize communication and support for the home's mission. Most movingly, Edwin shares the special story of how prayers and scriptures from various world traditions (Muslim, Buddhist, Christian, Native American) were physically written on note cards and placed inside the walls and on the beams during construction, ensuring the house itself is a constant source of blessing and grounding.[00:00:00] Host's First Impression: Natalie describes her first visit to Abode, feeling that it was a special, peaceful place, like "coming home" and a "safe nest."[00:01:05] Introducing the Visionaries: The host introduces co-founders Edwin and Patsy Sasek.[00:01:15] The Integration of Art and Spirituality: The Saseks discuss how they wove their love of art and spirituality into the atmosphere of Abode, making it a sacred, social, and spiritual place.[00:03:06] The Foundational Philosophy: Edwin and Patsy explain the goal of designing Abode to feel like a beautiful, welcoming home grounded in compassion and warmth.[00:04:24] The Art of Nature: The founders discuss their intentional search for a property with abundant nature, finding over 20 oak trees whose presence instantly told them, "this is it."[00:05:54] The Metaphor of the Roots: Patsy explains that the roots of the trees are a powerful metaphor, communicating and providing support that nourishes Abode’s mission and community.[00:08:16] Prayers in the Beams: Edwin shares the story of how they added prayers and scriptures from various world traditions to the interior walls and beams of the house during construction.[00:14:19] Imagination and the Language of Dying: Natalie discusses the importance of being open to the imagination, dreams, and the unique language a person experiences at the end of life.[00:15:36] The Full Sensory Experience: Patsy discusses how art, music, yoga, and other sensory experiences act together to provide peace in a guest's last days.[00:17:10] The Story of the Repurposed Doors: Edwin tells a story about turning "trash" into treasure by repurposing old doors from a hotel for use at Abode.[00:21:14] Guest Story: Carolyn and Watercolors: A story is shared about a guest named Carolyn who rallied for months and found emotional release through painting with watercolors, which were later used in a Christmas appeal.[00:25:14] Guest Story: Ceramics for Catharsis: Edwin tells a story of another guest who made beehive-like ceramic vessels to express and release anger and grief.[00:26:34] Art as an Antidote to Fear: Edwin discusses how art is the antidote to fear, bringing people into a "liminal space of awe."[00:33:31] Mindfulness in Everyday Life: Discussion on integrating mindfulness into simple actions, like washing dishes, to foster awareness and gratitude.[00:36:23] Being Engaged vs. Doing: Edwin reflects on the importance of appreciating "being engaged with" life rather than focusing on "doing."
- Nov 10, 202524 min
We're All Going to Die: Ossuary Jeweler Kristin Bunyard on Death, Art, and Preparation
Natalie Buster welcomes Kristin Bunyard, an artist and author who is not afraid of the podcast's core philosophy: "We're all going to die."Kristin works with death every day, first as an ossuary jeweler, which is Latin for "house of bones." Kristin shares how she ethically sources materials, transforming bones from roadkill and farm animals into stunning, contemplative art and jewelry. She also explains her philosophy on pet memorial pieces, often encouraging sculptural work so that beloved animals can still be "seen every day" in the home.The conversation then turns to her end-of-life workbook, aptly titled We're All Going to Die. Kristin reveals how a personal experience planning her grandmother's funeral—and the realization that her family lacked critical details—prompted her to create a straightforward guide for planning your final days.Guest: Kristin Bunyard, Ossuary Jeweler and AuthorHost: Natalie Buster (affiliated with Abode Contemplative Care for the Dying in San Antonio, Texas)Book Mentioned: We’re All Going to Die (End-of-Life Workbook)[00:00:00] The Core Philosophy: The host introduces the empowering idea that the sentence "We're all going to die" should empower, not frighten, us.[00:00:23] Introducing Kristin Bunyard: The host introduces Kristin, an ossuary jeweler and author of the end-of-life workbook We’re All Going to Die.[00:01:44] Defining "Ossuary Jeweler": Kristin explains the origin of the term, noting that "ossuary" is the Latin word for "house of bones".[00:02:30] Sourcing the Materials: Kristin discusses her dedication to ethical sourcing, obtaining materials from roadkill, farm deaths, and occasionally for pet memorial pieces.[00:03:07] Pet Memorial Philosophy: Kristin shares why she often encourages clients seeking a pet memorial to choose sculptural work rather than jewelry, emphasizing the importance of still seeing their loved one in their home every day.[00:03:58] The Host's "Original Death Doula": Natalie shares a fun anecdote about her Mexican hairless dog, Audrey, and the Aztec/Pixar Coco mythology of the Xoloitzcuintli dog as a psychopomp, guiding souls to the afterlife.[00:04:57] The Origin of Ossuary Art: Kristin recounts the "happy accident" that led to her career: finding a snake's spine on a ranch outside Junction, Texas, and being fascinated by the process of cleaning and turning it into a beautiful necklace.[00:07:26] The Inspiration for the Book: Kristin explains that the book We're All Going to Die was an "accidental project" prompted by the experience of planning her grandmother's funeral.[00:07:52] The Missing Details: She realized that despite knowing her grandmother's big-picture wishes, her family lacked the critical small details (like desired flowers or guest list) necessary for planning the service.
- Nov 3, 202540 min
Kindred Spirits: From Broadway to Bedside Care with Shavonne Conroy
Natalie Buster welcomes a cherished, long-time friend and "kindred spirit," Shavonne Conroy. Shavonne is a professional actor, a gifted singer, and the former Interim CEO of Abode Contemplative Care for the Dying.Shavonne shares her incredible, unconventional journey that seamlessly transitioned from a successful career in theater and television (including roles on Late Night with David Letterman and Law & Order) to her current passion for end-of-life care. She discusses the profound spiritual significance of dedicating her rich alto voice to comforting the dying and grieving, often singing at the bedside or at funerals.The two friends explore the compassionate philosophy that drives Abode's work: the giving, loving spirit required to simply meet people where they are without judgment. They discuss the deep satisfaction that comes from recognizing and filling in the "missing pieces" of a dying person's day, whether that's a gentle touch or reading a favorite book. You'll also meet the unforgettable Mikey, Shavonnee’s 155-pound Great Pyrenees, affectionately called the "doggy death doula," who provides loving, quiet comfort to the guests at Abode.[00:00:18] The Kindred Connection: Natalie introduces Shavonne and describes their long-standing connection, which began in the San Antonio and New York professional theater scenes.[00:00:37] Planting the Seed: Shavonne first introduced the host to the nonprofit Abode years before the host became affiliated with the organization.[00:01:28] From Theater to CEO: How Shavonne stepped in as interim CEO of Abode, reuniting the friends to discuss everything from Broadway musicals to end-of-life care.[00:01:57] A Performer's Life: Shavonne's background as a professional actor and singer, including appearances on shows like Late Night with David Letterman and Law & Order.[00:02:21] Earning Her Wings: The spiritual significance of Shavonne lending her alto voice to sing at funerals and the bedside of people at the end of life.[00:03:41] Meet the Doggy Death Doula: Shavonne introduces Mikey, her 155-pound Great Pyrenees, who gets into bed with guests at Abode to provide "doggy comfort" and emotional support.[00:07:09] The Philosophy of Care: Discussion on the Abode philosophy of meeting people where they are, focusing on connection, and filling in the "missing pieces" of their day, such as a hand on a hand or reading a favorite book.[00:08:12] How Shavonne Found Abode: Siobhan shares the story of how singing at a particular funeral led her to her first encounter with Abode.
- Oct 27, 202536 min
The Stories Caregivers Carry: Narrative Medicine with Vive Griffith
In this episode of Before You Go, host Natalie Buster sits down with poet, essayist, and narrative medicine facilitator Vive Griffith to explore the often-overlooked emotional landscape of caregiving. Drawing from her own experience caring for her mother through terminal illness, Vive shares how storytelling, poetry, and reflection can help caregivers reconnect with themselves, find community, and feel seen.Through the lens of narrative medicine, Vive offers a powerful reframe: that caregiving is not just a task, but a deeply human act worthy of attention, artistry, and healing. Whether you're a caregiver now, have been one, or will be one someday, this conversation is a balm.Topics Covered:The four kinds of people in the world, according to Rosalynn CarterWhat is narrative medicine, and how does it support caregivers?Vive’s personal caregiving journey with her motherHow art, poetry, and storytelling create space for healingThe emotional toll of caregiving—and how to replenishBuilding community through shared reflection and writingResources Mentioned:Narrative Medicine Program at Columbia UniversityThe Lacemaker by Johannes Vermeer (used in a workshop)Vive’s workshops for caregivers and cliniciansIf you’re a caregiver—or know someone who is—consider exploring narrative medicine circles or expressive arts workshops. You are not alone, and your story matters.⏱️ Episode Timestamps00:00 – Opening Quote Rosalynn Carter’s powerful words on caregiving01:00 – The Invisible Weight of Caregiving Natalie reflects on the emotional and physical toll caregivers carry02:00 – Meet Vive Griffith Poet, essayist, and narrative medicine facilitator04:00 – What Is Narrative Medicine? Vive explains the field and its roots at Columbia University07:00 – The Practice in Action How narrative medicine workshops use art, writing, and reflection10:00 – Vive’s Caregiving Story Walking with her mother through cancer and end-of-life care13:00 – The Power of Being Heard Why sharing stories in community is essential for healing16:00 – The Lacemaker Workshop Using a Vermeer painting to unlock caregiver reflections19:00 – Universal Threads of Care How narrative medicine connects us to something bigger
- Oct 20, 202538 min
Poetry as Survival: Laura Van Prooyen on Grief, Healing, and the Power of Words
Host Natalie Buster welcomes poet and restorative writing facilitator Laura Van Prooyen for a conversation about how poetry can become a lifeline in times of grief, trauma, and transition. From her work with soldiers experiencing PTSD to healthcare workers navigating burnout and loss, Laura shares how writing offers a sacred space for emotional honesty, resilience, and healing.Through personal stories—including the loss of her brother and mother—Laura reveals how poetry helped her survive, process, and transform grief into art. Whether you're intimidated by poetry or drawn to its quiet power, this episode invites you to explore how language can hold us when nothing else can.Topics Covered:Laura’s journey from academic poetry to trauma-informed writing workshopsHer transformative work with soldiers at Brooke Army Medical CenterThe evolution of grief through writing: from raw emotion to published chapbookHow poetry creates accessible, sacred space for processing lossThe role of emotional honesty in facing mortalityMission Belonging’s free weekly writing group for healthcare workersResources Mentioned:Gregory Orr’s Poetry as SurvivalMission Belonging’s Tuesday night virtual writing group (free and open to all)Laura’s upcoming chapbook (Spring release)Call to Action: Join Laura’s free Tuesday night writing group through Mission Belonging. Whether you’re a caregiver, healthcare worker, or someone navigating grief, this space is for you.00:00 – Opening Reflection Natalie shares her evolving relationship with poetry and how it intersects with mortality and meaning. 02:00 – Introducing Laura Van Prooyen Laura’s background in poetry, education, and trauma-informed writing.04:00 – Poetry Meets PTSD Laura’s first experience facilitating writing for soldiers at Brooke Army Medical Center—and the unexpected power of six-word memoirs.07:00 – Grief as Catalyst Laura opens up about losing her brother and how poetry became a survival tool during her deepest grief.10:00 – Mission Belonging & Weekly Writing Groups Laura describes her free, virtual Tuesday night workshops for healthcare and hospice workers.13:00 – Writing Through Loss How Laura continued facilitating workshops while grieving her mother—and how the group became a lifeline.15:00 – Creating Safe, Sacred Space The trauma-informed approach Laura brings to every session, and how poetry invites emotional honesty.17:00 – Craft, Accessibility, and Prompts Laura’s method for selecting poems, crafting prompts, and guiding participants through reflection and response.19:00 – Final Reflections The healing potential of poetry, the importance of emotional honesty, and how writing helps us live fully—even as we face death.
- Oct 13, 202537 min
Grief Dialogues: Putting Death and Dying on Stage with Elizabeth Coplan
In this episode of Before You Go, host Natalie Buster explores the power of creative arts and storytelling to normalize conversations about death and grief—a central theme of the podcast's current season.Natalie sits down with Elizabeth Coplan, founder of Grief Dialogues. Elizabeth shares her journey from a corporate career back to her roots in theater and storytelling after a year of profound loss. She explains how she founded Grief Dialogues to utilize the theatrical arts (stage and screen) as instruments to put death, dying, and grief on display. This work creates a vital space for audience members to connect with and process their own fears and losses.Tune in to learn about Elizabeth's mission to address the "death taboo" and why she calls mortality "the great equalizer". You’ll also hear about her highly-regarded work, including the short play, "Hospice: A Love Story," and her Pulitzer-nominated full-length play, "Till Death".[00:00:14] Host Introduction/The Power of Creative Arts: Natalie introduces the season's focus on using creative arts to hold space for the stories of people who have died.[00:01:11] Guest Introduction: The host introduces Elizabeth Coplan as a former actor who pivoted from a corporate career after a personal tragedy to found Grief Dialogues.[00:03:21] Elizabeth's Storytelling Journey: Elizabeth shares how her lifelong passion for theater and storytelling came into clear focus as her "dharma" or life's mission after her mother died.[00:05:41] The Inspiration for Grief Dialogues: Elizabeth realized people recoil from conversations about death after she shared details of a family member dying, calling it "the one thing we're all gonna do".[00:06:03] The "Great Equalizer": Elizabeth discusses why she refers to mortality as "the great equalizer".[00:06:57] The Cornerstone Play, "Hospice: A Love Story": Elizabeth describes turning her firsthand account of a cousin’s final days into a short play that became the foundation for Grief Dialogues.[00:08:15] The Full-Length Play, "Till Death": Elizabeth details the transition of Grief Dialogues during COVID-19 and the development of her full-length play which had an Off-Broadway debut and was nominated for a Pulitzer.
- Oct 6, 202530 min
The Modern Mortician: Green Burials, Grief Dogs, and Death Care Reimagined
In this lively and heartfelt episode, host Natalie Buster welcomes Melissa Meadow, a funeral concierge, death doula, and social media educator, for a conversation that redefines what it means to care for the dead. From green burials and water cremation to DIY funerals and therapy dogs, Melissa shares her journey from embalmer to advocate, and how she’s helping families reclaim their final rites. Natalie and Melissa explore the artistry of after-death care, the power of nature in grief, and why funeral professionals should embrace—not fear—the rise of death doulas. Plus, meet Kermit, the grief therapy dog who’s changing lives one cuddle at a time.Guest: Melissa MeadowFounder of The Modern MorticianFuneral consumer advocate, educator, and licensed funeral directorCertified death doula and green burial expertTherapy dog handler (Kermit, the OG funeral pup)Website: TheModernMortician.comInstagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook: @TheModernMorticianHighlights:[00:02:00] Morticia Addams and the myth of the mortician[00:05:00] Green burial, water cremation, and the “three C’s” of funeral choice[00:12:00] Kermit the grief therapy dog: how he comforts families and inspires funeral homes[00:18:00] DIY funerals, shades of green, and empowering families with options[00:24:00] Death doulas and the shifting funeral industry landscape[00:30:00] Contemplative arts, nature, and the dance of after-death care[00:36:00] Melissa’s dream: a natural burial park with goats, kids, and community
- Sep 29, 202529 min
Everybody Dies in the End: Hospice, Humor, and Musical Theater with Benjamin Kintisch
In this unforgettable episode, host Natalie Buster sits down with Benjamin Kintisch, a hospice chaplain, cantor, and creator of Life Review: The Musical. Inspired by real-life stories from his time at the bedside, Benjamin transforms grief, memory, and mortality into song. Natalie and Benjamin explore the power of humor in death work, the role of spiritual questioning, and how musical theater can help us confront the hardest truths with compassion and joy. From “Everybody Dies in the End” to “Will It Still Snow?”, Benjamin’s songs offer a spoonful of sugar for the bitter pills of life—and death.Guest: Benjamin KintischHospice chaplain and Jewish cantorCreator of Life Review: The MusicalWebsite: LifeReviewMusical.comInstagram: @benjaminkintischHighlights:[00:02:00] Benjamin’s journey from cantor to hospice chaplain[00:05:00] The birth of Life Review: The Musical[00:08:00] “Everybody Dies in the End”—humor as an entry point to grief[00:14:00] Musical monologues and the influence of A Chorus Line and Fiddler on the Roof[00:20:00] The character of Rabbi David and the theological wrestling of “Send Me a Sign”[00:26:00] Mr. Leroy Washington: honoring real-life friendships in hospice
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About Before You Go
Welcome to BEFORE YOU GO, the official podcast of Abode Contemplative Care For The Dying. At Abode, our vision is that we live in a world where death is not feared, and we live fully until we die. Hosted by Abode's End of Life Doula and Yoga Director, Natalie Buster.
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