Catching up on VIU’s first end of life doula courseCatching up on VIU’s first end of life doula course
People First Radio
Catching up with Carmen Lavoie about Vancouver Island University’s end of life doula course, which made its debut this past September. Lavoie also spoke about the taboo around discussing death, and shared tips on how to have conversations about the
18:32•11 Dec 2023
Talking About Death: Insights from VIU's End-of-Life Doula Course
Episode Overview
- Vancouver Island University's inaugural end-of-life doula course and its impact on students
- The diverse backgrounds and motivations of the course participants
- The evolving role of the end-of-life doula and blending tradition with contemporary approaches
- The societal stigma surrounding death and the importance of open conversations
- The significance of respecting individual journeys and the need for non-judgmental environments
“Using the simulation lab on campus at VAU has been really fruitful. Like I can really see, you know, when the students come out of that simulation, you know, their eyes are wide open. You can see that's had a real impact on their learning.”
Ever wondered how to have meaningful conversations about death? Vancouver Island University’s new end-of-life doula course is breaking the silence. In this episode of People First Radio, Carmen Lavoie, the mastermind behind the course, shares her experiences and the profound impact it has had on students. With participants from all walks of life, this course blends traditional practices with modern approaches, offering a fresh perspective on the role of doulas.
Carmen also addresses the societal taboos around death and provides practical tips for having those tough conversations. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand and respect the journey of life’s final chapter.

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