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Trigger Warning: This episode includes conversations around suicide, trauma, and grief. Please listen with care.

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I’ve sat in many conversations around death… but this one stayed with me in a different way.

Today, I’m speaking with Todd Maguire, a former undercover police officer who spent decades on the frontline of humanity’s darkest moments. From violent crime to suicide, from delivering devastating news to living with the aftermath of trauma, Todd has seen more than most of us ever will. But what struck me most wasn’t just what he witnessed… it was what he carried.

Todd shares the story of losing his partner to suicide, the years of pain, recklessness, and self-destruction that followed, and how he slowly found his way back. Not perfectly. Not cleanly. But honestly. And in that honesty, there is something incredibly powerful.

This conversation isn’t just about death. It’s about what happens after. It’s about grief, identity, healing… and the quiet, often messy work of choosing to live again.

Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,
Catherine

Death is hard, make death admin easy with the Critical Info Platform.

It’s a simple, secure system that helps you prepare and share your legacy, wishes and personal paperwork.

It’s packed with prompts, guides and even a To Do List to help you easily gather critical information for a complete end-of-life plan.

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Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
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Because this isn’t about planning for “someday” —
it’s about being ready for whatever life throws your way.

Join anytime at criticalinfo.com.au/events

MY LOVED ONE HAS DIED, WHAT DO I DO NOW?

Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.

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Learn more: https://criticalinfo.com.au/

Connect with Don't Be Caught Dead podcast host Catherine Ashton & Critical info on socials:
https://linktr.ee/catherine_critical_info?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=c1879300-84db-4c70-9270-18d17d3ec22a

Music composer: Ania Reynolds - https://www.aniareynolds.com/