Dealing with death in Portugal – Resident Podcast Interview with Rev Em McGowan – Ep.20 – 22-04-26

Our guest today is the Reverend Em McGowan of Creative Rootz in central Portugal – 'death doula', multi-faith minister, author and passionate permaculture practitioner.Rev Em shares how she arrived in Portugal “by accident,” fell in love with the quality of life here, and went on to create Creative Rootz – a 4,000 m² off-grid rural project near Castelo Branco, surrounded by olive trees.What began as a personal healing journey after a cancer diagnosis has become a space for reconnection with nature, permaculture, and supporting people in times of crisis. Through her work with the Share and Care Portugal Facebook group (which she now helps run), Em has become a vital source of compassionate, practical support for the expat community when facing death and grief in a foreign country.As a trained death doula, she helps people navigate end-of-life care, funerals, and bureaucracy in Portugal – often stepping in at the last minute when others don’t know where to turn.Her recently published book, 'What to Do When Someone Dies in Portugal', is a much-needed, compassionate handbook that walks readers step-by-step through the practicalities: who to call, what bureaucracy to expect, choices around cremation vs burial, funerals (including non-religious options), obituaries, and what happens afterwards. Written in her warm, grounded voice, the book acts like having Em right there with you – reminding people they have choices and helping reduce unnecessary stress at the hardest of times.Em emphasises the importance of preparation, personal responsibility, and speaks here of the deep healing that comes from living closer to the land – while honestly warning that off-grid rural life is rewarding but not for everyone (“chop wood, carry water… again and again”).She is currently working on the next book in her 'What If' series – a practical guide to preparing for life’s unexpected events, whether that’s death, illness, or simply breaking an arm. More here - www.creativerootz.comBuy the book here - https://amzn.eu/d/0grsDj6g (apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.www.portugalresident.com