The Magic of Storytelling in Death Work
Wednesday, April 30th, 2025, 7pm – 8:30pm ET
Our February webinar is open to all INELDA members as part of membership benefits.
Please login to your INEDLA Account to access the recording:
Webinar Guests:
Amanda Marie Ellis King, CFSP | Embalmer and Funeral Director, INELDA Trained-Doula
Jackie Naginey Hook, MA | Spiritual director, Celebrant, and INELDA_trained End-of-life Doula at Koch Funeral Home
Webinar Moderator:
Kimberly Stravers | INELDA Educator, Celebrant, and Former Funeral Attendant
Webinar Guest(s):
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Zeyneb Sayilgan, Ph.D. | Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies (ICJS)
Recorded Wednesday, February 25th, 2026, 7pm – 8:30pm ET
Webinar Guest:
Darnell Lamont Walker | Author & Storyteller, End-of-Life Doula, and Children’s Media Writer
Webinar Moderator:
Kayla Palisoc | INELDA Moderator
Storytelling is one of the oldest ways of meaning-making. As deathcare workers, when we are present with the people who we support, we witness their stories emerge. We witness their joys, proud moments, regrets and confessions. These stories can help us understand ourselves and our mortality at the end of life. This webinar featured the multi-talented author and end-of-life doula Darnell Lamont Walker in exploring The Magic of Storytelling in Death Work. We learned about the ways he has supported the dying through accepting presence, listening, and allowing for the emergence of stories and storytelling in that space.
Darnell’s new book, Never Can Say Goodbye, is embedded within the fabric of American society are deeply ingrained taboos surrounding death. For African Americans, these taboos are compounded by a complex interplay of factors that make conversations about death even more elusive. The echoes of systemic racism, unequal access to healthcare, and the enduring impact of generational traumas have created an environment where death is often seen as a subject best left untouched.
He shares personal stories from his role as a compassionate guide navigating the delicate space between life and death. These narratives unfold as intimate accounts of individuals, each seeking solace, closure, and the opportunity to share the stories that define them.
*When listening to/watching this recording, you may want to have a writing instrument and paper available as there are multiple personal writing prompts.
Guest Speaker Bio:
Darnell Lamont Walker is a dedicated death doula, guiding individuals and communities through the raw terrain of grief toward healing and happiness. With years of hands-on experience, he’s committed to helping others navigate the complexities of life’s final chapter while fully embracing the moments that come before. He is the author of Never Can Say Goodbye: The Life of a Death Doula and the Art of a Peaceful End. Beyond his work in end-of-life care, Darnell is an Emmy-nominated children’s television writer who has contributed to beloved shows like PBS Kids’ Work It Out Wombats!, Netflix’s Karma’s World, and Nickelodeon’s Blue’s Clues & You. Darnell remains devoted to creating safe and joyful spaces for children, adults, and communities everywhere.
ALL members can view this webinar as part of the INELDA membership benefits. [Members Register Here]
Non-members can purchase access to attend this webinar for $15 and will receive a link to view the recording following the event.
The recording of this September 2023 webinar has been made available to all members as part of your INELDA membership benefits. Non-members who purchased access to this webinar may also view the recording.
Sign in to your INELDA Account to access a recording of this webinar [CLICK HERE]
Tier 2 & 3 members can view this webinar at no cost as part of the INELDA membership benefits.
Tier 1 & Non-members can purchase live access to this webinar for $15 and will be able to view the recording following the event.
