Let’s be real—this isn’t your typical Visibly Fit episode. But it’s one you absolutely need to hear.

This week, I sat down with author and speaker Hattie Bryant, and we delved into a conversation that many people avoid: how to die well. Not in fear, not in confusion, and certainly not in a hospital bed hooked up to unnecessary machines—but with peace, dignity, and purpose.

Hattie shares her powerful personal story of helping her mother transition from this life with grace and how that moment shaped everything she does today. We talked about the heartbreaking reality of modern medicine’s grip on end-of-life care, why many Christians are afraid of heaven, and how we can prepare both practically and spiritually to leave this world well.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of death, if you’ve watched someone you love suffer needlessly, or if you want to know how to take the pressure off your family when that day comes, you’re going to want to tune in.

This conversation is packed with encouragement, biblical insight, and practical instruction. It will challenge you, inspire you, and prepare you—not just for death, but for living more intentionally now.

Chapters:

[00:00] Podcast Preview

[00:50] Podcast Introduction

[01:30] Topic and Guest Introduction

[05:02] Hattie's Book “I’ll Have It God’s Way”

[07:50] Hattie’s Mother’s Tragic Stroke Story

[11:19] “Everybody Needs A Hattie” Moment

[15:35] Why Most Christians Fear Death

[19:17] Voluntary Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED)

[21:07] Letting God Lead the End-of-Life Process

[26:16] Preparing for the Inevitable

[30:32] Choosing the Right Healthcare Proxy

[33:25] Facing Mortality and Embracing Faith

[40:20] The Deception of Comfort

[42:30] Dying People Know But Loved Ones Can’t Let Go

[44:09] Questions To Ask Your Doctor

[47:50] Understanding Life Choices and Eternal Perspectives

[50:17] Resources and Conclusion

Resources mentioned:

Grab Hattie’s book: I'll Have It God's Way

Learn more at: authorhattiebryant.com

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Visibly Fit 7-Week Accelerator Program

Connect with today's guest:

Hattie Bryant is a remarkable voice in navigating serious illness and end-of-life decisions with grace, clarity, and unshakable faith. A seasoned adult educator since 1979, Hattie has taught in 47 states and made a national impact as co-producer of Small Business School, a long-running PBS television series that reached millions globally from 1994 to 2012. Her contributions to small business education earned her White House recognition and the Award of Excellence.

After facing deeply personal healthcare decisions within her own family, Hattie pursued further education in gerontology, turning her passion into purpose. Today, she equips others to make thoughtful, faith-based end-of-life choices through her books and workshops.

She is the author of I’ll Have It My Way (a practical, research-based resource) and I’ll Have It God’s Way, a biblically grounded guide to planning for eternity with intention and peace. Hattie’s mission is to help others live well, leave well, and stay focused on their eternal home.

P.S. If you're just checking out the show to see if it's a good fit for you, welcome!

If you're really serious about becoming Visibly Fit, you'll get the best experience if you download the worksheets available at https://wendiepett.com/visiblyfitpodcast.

Episode 199: How to Die Well: Faith, Fear, and Taking Control of Your End-of-Life Journey with Hattie Bryant

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