Making sense of life between two worlds.

Helping you understand the dying process in all its mystery, complexity, absurdity, and wonder

Coach

Receiving a diagnosis of an untreatable and incurable illness for yourself or a loved one can bring up many questions, emotions, and fears. Gentle coaching and mentoring from someone who knows this terrain professionally and personally is helpful. I work with individuals, families, and professional providers around end of life, grief and loss, and finding ways forward when the way is uncertain.

Speaker

I speak regularly to small and large groups, private events, and public conferences. (My TEDx talk has more than 2 million views.) I love to combine storytelling with video, photography, and interact with my audiences, weaving together the mystical and the practical. We share what’s alive and real. I’d be glad to help at your next event.

“My mama has had several strokes, and she talks regularly with me about how she's preparing to go.

Lately the conversations have changed, she talks a lot about visiting with friends, friends who have long since transitioned. She talks to me about making sure my father and sister don't try to medicate her or keep her around longer than she wants to be.

It still freaks me out a little, natural part of life or not, she's my mama, and I would like her around for a whole lot longer. And she may be. Or not. But one thing... the freak out doesn't include fear anymore. And I have you to thank for that. Thank you, Martha. Thank you. Thank you. xo.”

Author

In Signposts of Dying: What You Need to Know, learn about the unique language and behaviors of people at end of life. Signposts is short, sweet, filled with practical information to guide and help you recognize signature aspects of the dying process.

About Dr. Martha Jo

I’m a teacher, author, speaker, and death doula who guides individuals, families, and communities through end-of-life journeys. My doctoral dissertation focused on pre-death visions. That research led me to a particular interest in tracking language and behaviors at end of life as body and spirit separate, and helping families understand what’s happening there. Knowledge can help alleviate fear and allows us to be more present in the moment.

Want to learn more about End-of-Life?

D-School (Dying School) is a 3-month investigation and exploration into the personal, spiritual, and practical issues at end of life, and how we can live more fully as we navigate this stage.