EPISODE · Oct 13, 2025 · 41 MIN
When Persistence and Passion ARE the WIN! In Conversation when NYT Bestselling author John Kenney
from Ask a Death Doula · host Suzanne B. O’Brien RN
THE GOOD DEATH VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR: Suzanne B. O'Brien RN in Conversation with John Kenney What if embracing your vulnerabilities could be the key to unlocking your dreams? Join us as we welcome John, an inspiring writer whose remarkable journey from a copywriter to a published author in The New Yorker is a testament to the power of persistence and passion. John opens up about facing years of rejection and self-doubt before finding success, and how taking risks, like moving to France, transformed his path. His story is a powerful reminder that true fulfillment comes from the joy of pursuing what you love, not just from accolades. We also explore life's deeper connections, revealing how understanding our mortality can enrich our appreciation for the present. Through heartfelt discussions about friendships, love, and the beauty of everyday moments, we consider the essence of living fully. This episode also introduces Bud Stanley, an obituary writer whose journey through attending strangers’ funerals offers profound insights into self-discovery and gratitude. Filled with thought-provoking reflections, this episode encourages listeners to embrace life's transitions and find peace in the simplicity of each moment. (00:02) Journey to Becoming a Writer (12:50) Reflections on Life and Death (22:57) Exploring Life and Death Through Stories Join the upcoming FREE Doulagivers Level 1 End of Life Doula and Family Caregiver Training Webinar here Register to join us for FREE: THE GOOD DEATH BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCE: 12 MONTH FREE DEATH AND DYING COURSE Or visit our website here! GET THE GOOD DEATH BOOK Here Meet our guest: John Kenney New York Times Best-selling Author, longtime contributor to The New Yorker Magazine - Shouts & Murmurs Instagram: @johnkenneywriter Get a copy of his latest book here > I See You've Called in Dead: A Novel Please Share! Know someone who is a caregiver, healthcare worker, or spiritual seeker? Share this episode and invite them to join this sacred and supportive experience. Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube JOIN MY FREE TRAINING AND MEMBERSHIP SITE This is a community-supported group hosted by Suzanne B. O'Brien RN, founder of the International Doulagivers Institute for training those who want to be professional End of Life Doulas, Doulagiver Practitioners and for anyone wanting more EOL education Join Here: 4491664174178077 ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑ If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create the life you want by surrounding yourself with positivity and watching daily. Click here to subscribe! ツ CONNECT WITH ME ツ Leave a comment on this video and it'll get a response. Or you can connect with me on different social platforms too: Instagram Facebook TikTok Website Podcast #deathdoula #deathdoultraining #dyingwell #death #life #deatheducation #doulagivers #hospice #hospicecare #hospicenurse #deathdoula #soulmidwife #deathmidwife #endoflifeplanning #healthcareproxy #funerals #fearofdeath #endoflifedoula #thegooddeath #hospice #grief #deathawareness #birth #endoflife #deathpositivity #consciousdying #dying #advanceplanning #deathpositive #gooddeath #consciousliving #endoflifedirective #palliativecare #advancedirective #livefully #suzannebobrien. #lifecafe #consciousness #awarenes
What this episode covers
After years of navigating the world of copywriting, John finally realized his dream of becoming a published author, overcoming a decade of rejection and self-doubt before achieving the triumph of being featured in The New Yorker. His story is a testament to resilience, courage, and the love of the craft itself, reminding us that true fulfillment lies in passion rather than accolades. In this reflective episode, we also explore the deep connection between living well and experiencing a “good death,” drawing wisdom from quiet moments and lessons shared by those at life’s end. Through the lens of Bud Stanley, an obituary writer who discovers life’s beauty in funerals and unexpected mentorship, the conversation invites us to embrace the present, cultivate gratitude, and live authentically.
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When Persistence and Passion ARE the WIN! In Conversation when NYT Bestselling author John Kenney
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