ENCORE: 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 with all your memories intact? This isn't science fiction - it's the ambitious goal of cryonics, and it's happening right here in Australia.In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Peter Solapides, founder, director, and chairman of Southern Cryonics. Peter shares the fascinating journey that led him to establish Australia's first cryonics facility in Holbrook, New South Wales. From the intricate process of patient suspension to the complex legal and ethical considerations, we delve deep into the world of cryonics and its potential to revolutionise our approach to death and dying.Peter's enthusiasm is infectious as he explains how cryonics works, dispelling common misconceptions and painting a picture of a future where death might be merely a temporary state. We discuss the demographics of cryonics supporters, the challenges of long-term planning, and the profound philosophical questions that arise when we consider the possibility of extending human life far beyond its current limits.Key points from our conversation:Cryonics involves preserving a person's body at extremely low temperatures after legal death, with the hope of future revivalSouthern Cryonics completed their first cryonic suspension in May 2024The process involves a team of medical professionals and specialised equipmentCryonics supporters tend to be science enthusiasts, secular, and optimistic about the futureThe cost of cryopreservation is typically covered by life insurance policiesLegal and ethical considerations include next-of-kin rights and the definition of deathThe facility in Holbrook can currently house 40 patients, with potential to expand to 600Maintenance costs are surprisingly low, mainly involving regular liquid nitrogen top-upsRemember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.Take care,CatherineResources: Find out more about Peter and Cryonics here: https://southerncryonics.com/ We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)Death is hard, make death admin easy with the Critical Info Platform. It’s a simple, secure system that helps you prepare and share your legacy, wishes and personal paperwork.It’s packed with prompts, guides and even a To Do List to help you easily gather critical information for a complete end-of-life plan.Leave behind a legacy, not a mess.Sign up now to your free trial at critical info.com.auNo credit card needed. Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays — free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.No pressure. No expectation.Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” — it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.SUPPORT SERVICESIf you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.Support the showSupport the 'Don’t Be Caught Dead' podcast with a one-off or regular donation to help Critical Info, a certified social enterprise, keep creating free, high-impact conversations about death, grief and planning—every contribution fuels our mission to reduce the burden on families and build a more death-literate, compassionate community. Donate here now.Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22aMusic composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/