End of Life Conversations: Using the EOL Deck to Talk About Final Wishes S2EP53

How to Have the Conversation When Time Is Running Out

Episode 53 of the Thoughtful Planning podcast, hosted by Santiago and Honey Bueno, titled "End of Life Conversations: Using the EOL Deck to Talk About Final Wishes S2EP53" was published on October 21, 2025 and runs 22 minutes.

October 21, 2025 ·22m · Thoughtful Planning

Summary

Episode Summary: In our last episode, we used The Death Deck while everyone was healthy. But what happens when someone is actually facing the end of life? Honey & Santiago introduce The EOL Deck, a tool for families, caregivers, & healthcare providers to explore what truly matters in someone's final chapter. They work through real questions & exchange answers to show how these difficult conversations unfold. Essential Question: If someone you love were facing the end of their life right now, would you know what truly matters to them in their final days? Content Warning: This episode discusses end-of-life topics. Please take care of yourself & listen when you're ready. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not doctors or lawyers. Key Takeaways: • The EOL Deck is for when someone is actually facing end of life  • 52 cards with casual tone, multiple-choice & open-ended questions • For families, caregivers, & healthcare providers • Preview cards & select questions suited to each patient • Start with cards about life & legacy for those less ready • Conversation starters, NOT legal documents • Created by Lori LoCicero & Lisa Pahl (hospice social worker) • Part of series: Death Deck, EOL Deck, Dementia Deck Episode Highlights: [0:04] Cold open: What happens when death is no longer abstract? [1:16] Essential question [3:16] Meet creators: Lori LoCicero & Lisa Pahl [5:47] First card: Ideal location for final breath [7:55] Santiago: Outside in nature [9:07] Honey: Grandkids playing, life happening [10:20] Third card: What to smell in final days [11:30] Gratitude question - What are you most thankful for? [12:17] Santiago's emotional answer about their life together [15:47] Professional tips: Preview & select cards [19:56] Start conversations early [20:30] Consider recording conversations Action Steps: ✅ Order at thedeathdeck.com ✅ Preview cards before using ✅ Start with life & legacy cards ✅ Make conversations comfortable ✅ Document with notes or recordings ✅ Legally document wishes with advance care directives Resources: • EOL Deck: https://thedeathdeck.com/collections/shop-all-decks • Death Deck Episode: https://youtu.be/m6w0HpWhU_g • Advance directives: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives/ Connect: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Keywords: EOL Deck, end-of-life conversations, advance directives, hospice care, palliative care, final wishes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Description