Episode Summary: In our last episode, we talked about how HBO's "The Pitt" could be a conversation starter for families to discuss end-of-life wishes. Today, we're sharing another tool that makes these conversations easier with some fun. Honey and Santiago play The Death Deck, a card game with 112 questions designed to spark lively discussions about death. Watch as they discover just how well they really know each other's end-of-life wishes through multiple choice questions and open-ended prompts.
Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not doctors or lawyers. Please consult with healthcare professionals or estate planning attorneys about your specific situation.
Essential Question: How well do you really know your family's thoughts about death and end-of-life wishes?
Content Warning: Today we're talking about a card game dealing with end-of-life topics. This card game is designed to spark conversations, not to make light of the topic of death. Please talk to a professional or call a helpline to seek help if you're facing difficulties. Please take care of yourself. You don't have to face anything alone.
Key Takeaways:
The Death Deck contains 112 cards with multiple choice and open-ended questions about death
The game is designed for when you're healthy, not during active end-of-life situations
Specialized decks exist for specific situations (EOL Deck, Dementia Deck)
Card games are conversation starters but never replace legal documentation
Review cards before playing with groups to remove triggering content
Episode Highlights:
[0:04] Introduction and Connection to The Pitt Episode - How conversation tools help families discuss end-of-life
[0:44] Content Warning - Sensitivity notice for listeners
[0:59] Welcome and Disclaimer - Meet Honey and Santiago
[1:21] Essential Question - How well do you know your family's thoughts about death?
[1:29] The Death Deck Introduction - 112 cards designed to spark discussion
[1:59] How The Death Deck Works - Multiple choice vs open-ended questions and different ways to play
[3:28] Gameplay Segment Begins - Honey and Santiago play three rounds
[3:50] Round 1: Space Cremains Question - Would you send cremated remains into space?
[5:17] Round 2: Cremation Jewelry Question - Would you wear jewelry containing loved one's remains?
[7:11] Round 3: Memorial Video Question - Making a video to be played after death
[9:05] Open-Ended Question: "I See Dead People" - Who would you want as your official greeter upon death?
[10:44] Other Specialized Decks - EOL Deck and Dementia Deck for specific situations
[11:56] Important Reminder - Card games never replace legal documentation
[12:43] Call to Action - Get The Death Deck or find another conversation starter
[13:15] Essential Question Revisited - Circling back to how well you know your family
Action Steps:
✅ Consider getting The Death Deck or finding another way to start these conversations with your family
✅ If making it a party, review cards first and remove any that might be triggering
Resources Shared:
The Death Deck, EOL Deck, and Dementia Deck: https://thedeathdeck.com/collections/shop-all-decks
State advance directive forms for legal documentation of wishes: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives/
Connect with Thoughtful Planning:
Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/contact
Email: info@legacytoolkit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit
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Keywords: The Death Deck, death conversations, family planning, end-of-life wishes, advance directives, conversation starters, EOL Deck, Dementia Deck, family communication, end-of-life planning
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