Walking Each Other Home: A Death Doula’s Guide to Life | Shawna Barlette

What if the very thing we fear most could actually become a source of peace, love, and even purpose?In this profound conversation on Lioness Conversations, I sit down with Shawna Barlette, a certified end-of-life doula and Death Literacy Specialist who calls herself a “death walker.” Shawna opens her heart about her journey—from crippling panic attacks to the devastating loss of her husband—and how those experiences prepared her to guide others through life’s final transition.Together, we explore how shifting from fear to presence transforms the way we view death—not as something to dread, but as a sacred passage filled with choice, dignity, and even beauty. Shawna reveals the often-misunderstood role of an end-of-life doula, challenges myths about death, and shares how she walks alongside families with compassion, clarity, and courage.This episode asks us to reconsider: What would change in your life if you stopped fearing death—and started embracing it as part of the human experience?Connect with Shawna:https://www.thedoulahearts.com/Lioness Community:https://www.jenportercoach.com/End of life resources:https://inelda.org/ (international)https://www.nedalliance.org/ Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Death and Dying Conversations02:48 The Role of an End of Life Doula05:31 Normalizing Death: A Shift in Perspective08:13 Fear and Its Impact on the Dying Process10:44 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations13:30 Family Dynamics and Resistance in End of Life Situations16:16 Understanding Goals in End of Life Care19:07 The Importance of Listening and Trust21:51 Bringing Compassion Back to Death and Dying25:13 Reclaiming Inner Wisdom26:44 The Evolution of Death Practices28:21 Understanding Burial Options31:10 The Role of Touch and Presence33:13 Navigating Fear of Death36:37 The Importance of Support During Dying40:35 Compassion in Death and Dying43:18 Personal Journey to Death Work48:25 Aligning with Purpose and Overcoming Fear51:05 The Journey to Ironman: Confronting Fears56:01 Embracing Suffering and Finding Strength59:32 The Role of a Death Doula: Who Needs One?01:03:47 Education and Empowerment in End-of-Life Care01:08:30 The Impact of Personal Connection and Purpose