Episode Details
Back to EpisodesFrom Personal Tragedy to National Impact: Robyn O'Connell's Story
Description
When we talk about death, we often focus on what happens after someone dies. But what if we also talked about how we support the people left behind?
In this episode, I’m joined by Robyn O’Connell, an experienced funeral celebrant, grief educator, author, speaker, and founder of the Rebecca Jane Foundation. For more than two decades, Robyn has helped families navigate some of life’s most heartbreaking moments while advocating for more open, honest conversations about death, grief, and child loss.
Robyn shares the deeply personal story of losing her daughter, Rebecca Jane, to SIDS at just nine months old, and how that devastating loss shaped her life's work. We explore what makes a meaningful funeral, why Australia still struggles with grief literacy, how children can be included in conversations about death, and the importance of acknowledging loss rather than avoiding it. This is a compassionate and thought-provoking conversation about love, remembrance, and finding purpose after unimaginable heartbreak.
Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.
Take care,
Catherine
We'd love to hear from you. Send us a text :-)
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.
SUPPORT SERVICES
If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.
The free 3-minute Critical Info Check helps you see what you’ve already got covered — and what your next step could be.
Three minutes. One next step.
Go to gettingstarted.criticalinfo.com.au
Every Tuesday at 7pm, I host Critical Chat Tuesdays —
free, online conversations where you can ask questions or just listen.
No pressure.
No expectation.
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
YOUR NEXT STEP
Take the free 3-minute Critical Info Check to see what you’ve already got covered — and what your next step could be.
https://gettingstarted.criticalinfo.com.au/
NEED SUPPORT?
The Critical Info Resource Hub connects you with organisations and services offering grief, bereavement and other practical support.
https://criticalinfo.com.au/support/
KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING
Join Critical Chat Tuesday, a free online conversation every Tuesday at 7pm Melbourne time.
Find out more:
https://criticalinfo.com.au/events
IF SOMEONE HAS DIED
If someone you love has died, our After-Death Guide — My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now? — provides practical guidance to help you navigate what needs to happen next.
https://criticalinfo.com.au/product/my-loved-one-has-died/
LEARN MORE
For resources mentioned in this episode, check the links and information provided in the episode description.