Dying for a Cuppa - The Podcast

In this episode of Dying for a Cuppa, I’m joined by Paul Radcliffe from Laurelo for a conversation that genuinely surprised me.If you’d ever told me probate could be interesting — even inspiring — I’d have laughed. But this chat was honestly so enlightening. Paul takes what is usually a total minefield and explains probate with real clarity, in language that actually makes sense. We explore what probate really is (process, paperwork, or something else entirely), whether it’s something you even need, and walk through a whole range of real-life scenarios that people commonly face.This is one of those episodes where the fog lifts. It might feel daunting if you’re navigating a loss or know probate is on the horizon, but I can truly say this is exactly the kind of conversation you want in your ears. It’s calm, clear, reassuring — and surprisingly uplifting.So pop the kettle on, settle in with a cuppa, and prepare to feel far more informed and less overwhelmed. Huge thanks to Paul and the team at Lorello for being so open and generous with their knowledge. They’re absolutely there if you need support, and I’ll share their website below.https://laurelo.co.uk/© 2026 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

In this episode of Dying for a Cuppa, I’m joined by Katie Wellman, professional home organiser and declutterer, for a really honest chat about STUFF and why it’s so hard to let go of it.We talk about the emotional weight our belongings carry, why decluttering can feel overwhelming, and the difference it makes when things are sorted before someone dies compared to after. Katie shares gentle, practical insights into why we keep what we keep, why the little things often matter the most, and how organising and decluttering can be an act of care for ourselves and for those we love.It’s relatable, thoughtful, and quietly motivating.So grab a cuppa, maybe a bit of cake, take a look around your own space… you might just feel inspired to make a few changes of your own. https://makeroomtobreathe.co.uk/© 2026 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

This week on Dying for a Cuppa I’m joined by the glorious Lee-Anne Duncan, joining us all the way from New Zealand.Lee-Anne is a writer and journalist, and also a bereaved child. She lost her mum at just eight years old, an experience that went on to shape her life’s work. Today, Leanne dedicates her time to exploring the long-term impact of childhood bereavement, listening deeply to others who lost one or both parents young and gathering their stories with real care and integrity.This is a long one (two talkers, no surprises there), but it’s long for all the right reasons. We didn’t want to cut anything out because the insights shared are just too valuable. Leanne talks about her research, the interviews she’s conducted, and what those early losses can mean for behaviour, emotions, identity, and how people move through the world as adults.We also have the huge privilege of hearing about Māori traditions around death, dying, and funerals, offering a powerful cultural perspective on grief, ritual, and community.So yes, pop the kettle on. Maybe grab a few biscuits too. This episode is a gentle, thoughtful, and deeply meaningful listen. Please know we talk about death and dying very openly. And if this resonates with you as someone who lost a parent young, we’d really love to hear your thoughts. Lee-Annes link is below if you’d like to get in touch or explore her work further.https://www.tooyoung.org.nz© 2026 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

We are back!! Series 3 kicking off with an incredible first guest! This week on Dying for a Cuppa, I’m joined by the truly amazing Teepa Snow — world-renowned dementia care expert and all-round human legend.https://teepasnow.com/Teepa and I first chatted back in 2021, and it is an absolute honour to welcome her back for a cuppa and a deeply meaningful conversation. Together, we talk all things dementia and end-of-life, exploring what really matters when it comes to care, connection, and presence.We dive into Teepa’s Positive Approach to Care and her hugely impactful GEMS® State Model — a must-know for anyone supporting, loving, or caring for someone living with dementia. We also talk honestly and openly about dementia at end of life, and how we can show up in ways that are kind, informed, and deeply human.As always, Teepa shares her wisdom, insight, and lived experience in a way that is heartfelt, practical, and grounding. We hold the same values — person-centred, compassionate, and deeply respectful of the human behind the diagnosis.Dementia touches so many lives. Understanding how the brain changes, how communication shifts, and how to truly be with someone living with dementia is a learning curve for us all. I’m so grateful Teepa brings her knowledge and generosity to this episode and I know it will leave you thinking, feeling, and caring a little differently.Pop the kettle on and get comfy, this one gives you some real lightbulb moments.Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, is one of the world’s leading advocates and educators on the topic of dementia or other forms of brain change and an Occupational Therapist with over forty years of rich and varied clinical and academic experience. Her experiences led her to the development of the GEMS® States of Brain Change and the Positive ApproachTM training strategies. Her company, Positive Approach to Care® (PAC), provides online and in-person education and products to support those living with brain change. She also co-founded the Snow Approach Foundation, a nonprofit organisation based in Hillsborough, North Carolina. Teepa presents with extraordinary expertise and humour to audiences throughout the world.© 2026 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

And here we are… the final episode of Series 2. Episode 16 with Karen Kinsella.I’m closing the series with a deeply moving conversation with Karen, the other half of the Room to Grieve podcast.This is Karen’s story of her daughter Emily. Emily was diagnosed with a brain tumour at 14 and died at just 16. Karen talks about those two and a half years with such honesty, the way Emily lived, the way she faced her own death, and the impact her loss has had on Karen and the life she now carries.Karen shares differently to Beck: her language, her mindset, her perspective, all completely her own. But the thread between them, the bond formed through losing their children, is something you can feel. Together, they’ve created a powerful, supportive space over at Room to Grieve, and I’m so grateful they’ve chosen to share their stories with us.Please do look them up, follow, like, share, all of it, not just for this podcast, but for theirs too. Their voices reach people who truly need to know they’re not alone. As we talk about in the episode, they’re part of a very unique club, one no parent ever wants to join. The more people who know that women like Karen and Bec are out there, the better.We’re heading into a little Christmas break now, and I’ll be back with you at the end of January.  So settle in for this final episode of the series, sit with Karen and Emily’s story, be mindful it is emotional and still with some swearing, not as much as Bec though, and I’ll see you in the new year.https://roomtogrievepodcast.podbean.com/https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcvBSyKJT34bGf39TWr2cWS0xKsGwhNtc&si=Kum9BYKOcc-o2X1jhttps://open.spotify.com/show/6Z4G5h3BavMRPCwDfAPpCJ?si=3018fa794ab34436https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/room-to-grieve-podcast/id1762303648https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8caa09d4-5f0d-4a5d-a2f0-06b209212a0a/room-to-grieve-podcast© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

Series 3 might have wrapped… but I’m back with two powerful bonus episodes! Episode 15 with Bec HadmanFirst up is a conversation with Bec, one half of the incredible duo behind the Room to Grieve podcast. This episode is tender, raw, and honestly tough in places. Beck talks about her son Bradley, who died at 18 from a brain tumour. She shares his story openly: who he was, what he loved, his diagnosis, his courage, and the nearly year long journey that followed.It’s emotional. There’s swearing. You’ll want a big mug of tea or coffee and a slice of cake that could double as a doorstop. Bec speaks with such honesty about her experience of supporting Bradley, it is incredibly powerful.Every episode this season has been heartfelt, but child loss - it lands differently. So go gently with this one, and please do check out the brilliant women over at Room to Grieve on YouTube and wherever you find your podcasts.Next week, I’ll be talking with Karen about her daughter Emily - another incredible mother, another story of love, heartbreak, and the individuality of grief. Bec and Karen’s journeys are very different, but their friendship, their honesty, and the way they hold each other through loss is something truly special.So settle in, listen to Bec and Bradley’s story, and get ready for Karen and Emily next week.https://roomtogrievepodcast.podbean.com/https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcvBSyKJT34bGf39TWr2cWS0xKsGwhNtc&si=Kum9BYKOcc-o2X1jhttps://open.spotify.com/show/6Z4G5h3BavMRPCwDfAPpCJ?si=3018fa794ab34436https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/room-to-grieve-podcast/id1762303648https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8caa09d4-5f0d-4a5d-a2f0-06b209212a0a/room-to-grieve-podcast© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at a funeral directors? Have you ever thought to ask what care your person receives after the funeral directors collects them? Do you understand the natural processes of the body after someone dies?Here I discuss all that AND MUCH MORE with the brilliant Judith Dandy from Dandelion Farewells Funeral Directors in Wisborough Green, West Sussex. At the heart of their business is an unhurried approach, listening to what is important to YOU, and a willingness to openly share with you a wealth of knowledge and understanding, allowing you to make the choices that feel right to you.A modern business, they provide a sensitive, personalised approach to funeral and after death care, mindful of the many choices that are available and guiding you through the important decisions that need to be made.You will see and feel all this in Judith's sharing here. As always, please be mindful we talk very openly about death and in this case, physical bodies that have died. Not in a gruesome way, but in a real and supportive way to offer information and support understanding.I think you will be surprised how you feel after listening and I would LOVE to hear your thoughts. https://dandelionfarewells.com/https://www.goodfuneralguide.co.uk/https://www.youtube.com/@Dandelionfarewells© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

We’ve all heard the saying that hearing is the 'last sense to go' as we die. We talk about how even as someone is dying, they can still hear our words, our laughter, our love. But what does that really mean? In this episode, I explore the science, the soul, and the stories behind sound at the end of life - how words, vibration, and energy shape those final moments.Whether it’s reading the football results or whispering something you’ve always wanted to say, this one asks us to think about what’s truly being heard, and felt, as life fades.As always, I speak honestly and from the heart, so please listen gently as it may stir up memories and emotions.I have absolutely LOVED this season of both short, soulful episodes and the incredible, honest, real guest stories, and with just one episode left before a Christmas break, I’d love to hear your thoughts. The final episode of this series is coming next Monday and it is as real about death as you can get, I cant wait for you to hear it!© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

This week on Dying for a Cuppa – The Podcast, I’m joined by my lovely friend Vicky, sister to my dear friend Becky, who if you follow me on socials, will know passed away in March 2024.Vicky and I sit down for a deeply honest and emotional conversation about her family’s journey through multiple losses — her mum Pat, her sister Nicola, and then Becky — each loss different, each one leaving its own mark. Vicky shares so openly about the impact of grief, the realities of illness, and the experience of hospice care.As with all my guest episodes, we talk very openly and honestly — but please do bear in mind that this one does get emotional. It’s a tender and raw listen, so go gently if you choose to tune in.This episode is especially close to my heart. Becky was my personal friend — brilliant, funny, and full of life with the best laugh — and while losing her broke my heart, it brought me a new friend in her sister, Vicky.This episode is a story of heartbreak, connection, and the life that can come from even the deepest of losses. © 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

In this episode of Dying for a Cuppa, I sit down with one of my close friends, Rachel Carter. Rachel isn’t just my death bestie – she’s also a fellow end-of-life companion, and a spiritual life-and-death coach.Rachel opens up about the loss of two significant people in her life, sharing her experiences with honesty and tenderness. It’s not always an easy listen, as we talk about the realities when things don’t go as hoped, touching on healthcare professionals, the system, and the challenges along the way.But as often happens over a cuppa, the conversation naturally flows into deeper waters – faith, spirituality, and the way we both see the world.This is a raw, heartfelt, and very real chat. Please go gently as you listen, and join me in being grateful for Rachel’s courage, wisdom, and openness in sharing her story.To learn more about Rachael and her work - https://www.evaandalma.com/© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

New episode of Dying for a Cuppa OUT TODAY - Do We Choose the Moment We Die?In this episode of Dying for a Cuppa, I explore one of those quietly profound questions that often comes up when sitting with the dying. Not sudden or tragic deaths, but the ones where you know it’s close — those vigil moments. The person holds on for days, then slips away the moment someone steps out of the room… or they seem to wait for a special call, a birthday, or that one person to arrive — and then they go.Is it fate? Coincidence? Faith? Science? Energy? Maybe all of it. Maybe there’s a choice we don’t yet understand. Maybe it’s simply the body doing what it must. Or maybe it’s both.Gentle content note: this episode talks about the moment of death and our presence and witness to it. You may have your own experiences so pease listen with care if you’re grieving or feeling tender around loss.Have you ever witnessed what felt like “perfect timing” at the end of life? I’d love to hear your thoughts.Listen now on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts — just search “Dying for a Cuppa.” © 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

This week’s episode of Dying for a Cuppa is an extra special one for me. I’m joined by my fiancé, Rick, and his best friend, Ben, as they open up about the loss of their best mate, Kris. Kris died of cancer at just 34, after only being ill for literally a matter of days, it was a complete shock.Now, a couple of heads up before you listen: this conversation is way out of Rick and Ben’s comfort zone, we have not edited or a scripted anything, their love language is banter (and swearing!) so expect some colourful language, and we speak very openly about death, dying, and the raw grief that followed Kris death.Alongside the pain, there’s so much love, laughter, and genuine deep bonds of friendship in this chat. Rick and Ben share what Kris meant to them, how they navigated the shock of losing him, and how they are keeping his memory alive.Friendships, often as deep and important as our blood relatives, sometimes even more so, I feel deserve more space in the way we talk about death and grief.So, grab yourself a cuppa, listen gently, and come with us into this tender, funny, and very real conversation about friendship, death, (with some choice language) and the love that stays.© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

Special Episode: In Honour of Baby Loss Awareness Week - 9-15th OctoberThis week on Dying for a Cuppa – The Podcast, I’m joined by the beautiful Cathy Milburn, friend, colleague and founder of Heart in Their Hand. Cathy’s work was born from her own heartbreak — the loss of her son, Adam, who was sadly born sleeping.In this deeply tender and honest conversation, Cathy shares her story — from her pregnancy and Adam’s birth, to the quiet, aching days that followed — and the wisdom she’s gathered along the way as a grieving mother.Please go gently as you listen to this one. It’s an episode full of love, truth, and remembrance — honouring not only Cathy’s Adam, but all the tiny souls who couldn’t stay, and the families who carry them forever in their hearts. https://www.heartintheirhand.com/http://babyloss-awareness.org© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

Grief is one of the heaviest topics we could ever touch on – and truthfully, we could talk about it all day. But in this episode, I simply want to pause and share a few gentle reminders.Grief is not about comparison or measurement. It’s personal, messy, and different for everyone. Here, I offer some intimate reflections and supportive insights for anyone grieving, or walking alongside someone who is.Think of this as a short message just for you: whatever you’re experiencing, thinking, or feeling in your grief – it’s all okay.© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

In this latest episode of Dying for a Cuppa, I sit down with Emma Gray, from Rainbow Hunting, who speaks with raw honesty about the death of her husband, Simon. Simon was just 38 when he died, leaving behind Emma and their two young daughters, aged six and eight.This conversation is tender and deeply emotional, especially towards the end, so please do listen gently. Emma shares Simon’s journey through chemotherapy, cancer, hospitals, and hospice, as well as the heartbreaking reality of being with him when he died. She also reflects on how their daughters were part of this story.Alongside her personal experience, Emma, who is a probate lawyer, now supports people through the practical side of navigating life after loss —the paperwork and processes that come after a loved one dies—in many ares of her workI am so grateful to Emma for opening up so honestly, and I know her story will resonate with many. But please do think before you delve in, first stick the kettle on, this ones emosh.https://www.rainbowhunting.co.uk/https://www.widowedandyoung.org.uk/© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

In this episode of Dying for a Cuppa, I’m joined by Antonia Rolls, an artist and fellow Soul Midwife, who speaks with incredible openness about the deaths of her two sons. Antonia lost one son to addiction and another to suicide. Antonia has also experienced many other significant losses in her life. This is your gentle warning: the conversation is raw, very honest, and deeply emotional. Please take care of yourself as you choose whether to listen, and maybe pour yourself a strong coffee first.Antonia shares not only the painful details of her loss, but also the profound lessons and experiences of living without her sons. Together, we talk about faith, religion, and spirituality; the different perspectives surrounding addiction and suicide; and the very real emotions felt by those struggling — and just as importantly, by those who love them.https://antoniarollsartistextraordinaire.blogspot.com/© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal or medical advice.

In this episode, we’re diving into the world of hospices – what they are, where they came from, and why they matter. Hospices can feel daunting or even misunderstood, so my aim is to strip away the myths and share the key things you really need to know.This isn’t just about facts and history, though. It’s about encouraging those vital conversations with the people who matter to you – the kind of conversations that help us feel more prepared and supported, long before we actually need hospice care ourselves or for someone we love. 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

In this episode of Dying for a Cuppa, I sit down with John Adams – a well-known voice in the Funeral world, with ideas and energy that keep shaping the way forward. But at the heart of John’s drive is something deeply personal. When John was just 12 years old, he lost his mum, Maria. That loss shaped his grief, his life, and ultimately the work he’s doing today to make real changes and raise awareness about how we support bereaved children.Please be warned, this episode includes open and honest conversations about grief, loss and children. John shares about his reality of losing his Mum and what he remembers as a young boy. Please be aware that things do get emotional at times.Join us for an honest conversation about John’s story – from those early days of loss to the path he’s on now. https://achangingindustry.com/© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal or medical advice.

In this raw and deeply human episode, I’m joined by my friend and fellow celebrant, Jess May – a living funeral specialist who knows the realities of loss all too well. Jess shares the significant bereavements in her life, including the deaths of her parents and siblings, as well as the heartache of pet loss.We talk openly about grief, death, and dying – in very real, human terms. Jess speaks with honesty about her own grief journey, the complex family dynamics she faced, and navigating challenges such as alcoholism.This is a genuine human-to-human conversation – one I was honoured Jess allowed me to record. Our hope is that it helps someone out there feel a little less alone, and that it continues to bring death and dying into the light as a natural part of life.Please note: this episode is honest, emotional, and unfiltered. Go gently as you listen.https://www.jess-may.com/© 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.

PLEASE LISTEN TO THIS BEFORE YOU START…We’re back with Series 2 of Dying for a Cuppa The Podcast! In this short intro, we set the scene for what’s to come – honest, in-depth conversations about death, dying, and the many ways loss shows up in our lives. This isn’t a series about grief itself, but about the stories, experiences, and truths people carry.Before you dive in, this episode offers a gentle but important heads-up: our conversations can be raw, emotional, and sometimes heavy. We touch on difficult topics, and yes – there’s the occasional splash of colourful language. But alongside the intensity, you’ll also find moments of inspiration, lightness, and even laughter.Think of this as your guide before you journey into the rest of the series. Please listen here first so you’re ready for what lies ahead.Dying for a Cuppa is a podcast where I sit down with real people to have real conversations about life — and about death. Each episode brings death to the forefront through honest chats and personal stories. Every story holds something unique, something different, and something truly valuable that many of us need to hear. My hope is that these conversations make what often feels abnormal seem a little more normal — and help people feel just a little less alone. 2025 Katie Costello. Dying for a Cuppa® is a registered trademark of Katie Costello. All rights reserved.This podcast and its content, including audio recordings, descriptions, and associated materials, are protected by copyright. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission, except for personal, non-commercial use.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organisations. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, legal, or medical advice.