Most of us know we should talk about the end of life - but almost none of us know where to start.

In this episode, Melissa Reader is joined by Dr Ira Byock, one of the world’s leading voices in palliative care, to explore how we can live and love more fully by facing what we often avoid. A physician, author, and global advocate, Ira has spent decades reminding us that illness and dying are not just medical experiences, they’re deeply personal ones.

Together, they unpack the four simple phrases that can transform our relationships - “Please forgive me. I forgive you. Thank you. I love you.” - and discuss why planning for life’s later chapters should come from trust and love, not fear.

This conversation also marks the launch of Violet’s Care Compass, a simple values-based tool designed to help families start these conversations early - around the kitchen table, not in the hospital corridor.  Because it’s never too early to talk about the end.

 

FIND OUT MORE

If you’re caring for aging parents, navigating your own next chapter, or just trying to keep all the balls in the air - you’re not alone. At Violet, we offer free tools and support to help families navigate the last stage of life with care and confidence. Visit violet.org.au to start the conversation.

CREDITS 

Host: Melissa Reader

Guest: Dr Ira Byock

Executive & Audio Producer: Madeline Joannou - Mylk Media

Find out more about Violet at violet.org.au

For more information about Dr Byock's books, visit his website here.

 

Most of us know we should talk about the end of life - but almost none of us know where to start.
In this episode, Melissa Reader is joined by Dr Ira Byock, one of the world&rsquo;s leading voices in palliative care, to explore how we can live and love more fully by facing what we often avoid. A physician, author, and global advocate, Ira has spent decades reminding us that illness and dying are not just medical experiences, they&rsquo;re deeply personal ones.
Together, they unpack the four simple phrases that can transform our relationships - &ldquo;Please forgive me. I forgive you. Thank you. I love you.&rdquo; - and discuss why planning for life&rsquo;s later chapters should come from trust and love, not fear.
This conversation also marks the launch of Violet&rsquo;s Care Compass, a simple values-based tool designed to help families start these conversations early - around the kitchen table, not in the hospital corridor.&nbsp; Because it&rsquo;s never too early to talk about the end.
&nbsp;
FIND OUT MORE
If you&rsquo;re caring for aging parents, navigating your own next chapter, or just trying to keep all the balls in the air - you&rsquo;re not alone. At Violet, we offer free tools and support to help families navigate the last stage of life with care and confidence. Visit<a href="https://violet.org.au/"> violet.org.au</a> to start the conversation.
CREDITS&nbsp;
Host:<a href="https://blog.violet.org.au/en/news/violets-ceo-shares-her-personal-story"> Melissa Reader</a>
Guest: <a href="https://irabyock.org/">Dr Ira Byock</a>
Executive &amp; Audio Producer: Madeline Joannou - <a href="https://www.mylkmedia.com.au/">Mylk Media</a>
Find out more about Violet at<a href="http://violet.org.au"> violet.org.au</a>
For more information about Dr Byock's books, visit his website <a href="https://irabyock.org/books-overview/">here</a>.
&nbsp;

Agehood is the podcast that finally says what we're all thinking but rarely saying out loud. Hosted by Melissa Reader, CEO of Violet, we have the conversations that matter most: watching our parents age, being everyone's go-to person, the mess of love and duty, what it really takes to care for those we love, and yes, death, dying, and loss.

You'll hear Australia's most trusted voices, from beloved broadcasters to respected experts, vulnerably sharing their own stories alongside practical guidance that actually helps. This isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking the right questions and knowing you're not alone.

Agehood is the podcast that finally says what we're all thinking but rarely saying out loud. Hosted by Melissa Reader, CEO of Violet, we have the conversations that matter most: watching our parents age, being everyone's go-to person, the mess of love and duty, what it really takes to care for those we love, and yes, death, dying, and loss.
You'll hear Australia's most trusted voices, from beloved broadcasters to respected experts, vulnerably sharing their own stories alongside practical guidance that actually helps. This isn't about having all the answers&mdash;it's about asking the right questions and knowing you're not alone.

This is the show for all the people who are caught between caring for ageing parents, raising a family, and managing work—all while trying to live a good life. Listen in as some of Australia’s most trusted voices share their stories of Agehood: the tears, the frustration, the goodbyes, but also the laughs and moments of true joy along the way.

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