What is a death doula — and do you actually need one? In this episode, end-of-life doula, herbalist, and death cafe facilitator Michelle Polacinski breaks it all down. Michelle became interested in death and dying after a near-deadly reaction to an antibiotic at age 23 left her unable to walk for months, facing her own mortality alone and far from home. That experience transformed her life — and eventually led her to the work she does today.

Michelle explains the role of a death doula and how they work alongside hospice, what happens at a death cafe and why talking openly about death matters, and the Swedish death cleaning movement — a practical and meaningful way to prepare your loved ones and spark important conversations before it's too late.

She also shares her personal grounding practice and her biggest takeaway for anyone navigating grief: when you need to cry, just cry. Don't hold back.

Death Cafe: https://deathcafe.com

Guest Bio: Michelle Ameliore Polacinski is an end of life doula, herbalist, facilitator, and mental health counseling student at the University at Albany. She is currently Kelly's intern! Michelle became interested in death and dying when she received paperwork for a living will at the age of 23. She was experiencing a disabling, toxic reaction from a pharmaceutical drug called Cipro, the experience of which changed her life. Since, she was trained as an end of life doula, has facilitated a monthly death cafe for four years, death book club for 2 years, and talks about death endlessly.

Connect with Michelle:

michelleameliore.substack.com

@ameliore.apothecary on instagram

GRIEF Ladies: Your Guide to What Comes Next

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The GRIEF Ladies podcast offers education and support for people living with grief after someone they love has died. Our content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health care or crisis services. If you are in crisis or concerned about your safety, call 988 in the U.S. or contact local emergency services.

Guest perspectives shared on this platform are their own and may not reflect the views or positions of The Grief Ladies.