In this episode it is my pleasure to talk with Dr Jared Rubenstein, a paediatric palliative care doctor and creator of  videos to help talk about difficult things. Listen in to hear the stories behind the videos and how Jared challenges many misconceptions about palliative care.

Key messages

• Dr. Jared Rubenstein, a pediatric palliative care doctor, discusses his journey into creating educational videos about palliative care.

• The power of metaphor and humour in addressing difficult topics like end-of-life care and Advance Care Planning is shared..

• The importance of naming and openly discussing palliative care, challenging the stigma and reluctance in healthcare.

• The role of Advance Care Planning as a gift to loved ones, and the misconception that it’s a one-time conversation.

• Insights into dignity therapy and its adaptation for pediatric patients, including those with severe neurological impairment.

• The value of empowering children and adolescents to have a voice in their care and legacy.

• The universality of fear and avoidance around death and dying, and the need for open, supportive conversations.

• Personal stories and practical advice for both professionals and families on engaging in Advance Care Planning.

Resource

• Videos explored:

  • End of the Line

  • Palliative Care PSA - We’re the fire department, not the fire. 

  • Give the Gift of Advance Care Planning 

• Additional resource

  • Case studies: Dignity Therapy in Pediatrics: A Case Series

  • YouTube Channel: Jared Rubenstein MD (search on YouTube)

  • Website: jaredrubensteinmd.com

  • Social Media: Instagram and Bluesky handle @DrJRubenstein

  • Animation App: Plotagon (for creating educational videos)

  • Dignity Therapy Protocol: Developed by Dr. Harvey Chochinov and team, Winnipeg, Canada

  • Book/Author: Dr. Katherine Mannix (mentioned as a collaborator and inspiration)

  • Podcast Host Website: www.speakforme.co.uk

  • Advance Care Planning Resources: Available via podcast show notes and www.speakforme.co.uk

    
    

Bio

Jared Rubenstein is a pediatric palliative care doctor and medical educator at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, TX, USA. He is passionate about helping people talk about difficult things and believes that the use of satire, animation, and humor can facilitate these conversations. When he’s not talking about palliative care, he loves traveling and spending time in nature with his wonderful wife and two hilarious kids.