Kindred Spirits: From Broadway to Bedside Care with Shavonne Conroy

<p>Natalie Buster welcomes a cherished, long-time friend and &quot;kindred spirit,&quot; Shavonne Conroy. Shavonne is a professional actor, a gifted singer, and the former Interim CEO of Abode Contemplative Care for the Dying.</p><p>Shavonne shares her incredible, unconventional journey that seamlessly transitioned from a successful career in theater and television (including roles on Late Night with David Letterman and Law &amp; Order) to her current passion for end-of-life care. She discusses the profound spiritual significance of dedicating her rich alto voice to comforting the dying and grieving, often singing at the bedside or at funerals.</p><p>The two friends explore the compassionate philosophy that drives Abode&#39;s work: the giving, loving spirit required to simply meet people where they are without judgment. They discuss the deep satisfaction that comes from recognizing and filling in the &quot;missing pieces&quot; of a dying person&#39;s day, whether that&#39;s a gentle touch or reading a favorite book. You&#39;ll also meet the unforgettable Mikey, Shavonnee’s 155-pound Great Pyrenees, affectionately called the &quot;doggy death doula,&quot; who provides loving, quiet comfort to the guests at Abode.</p><p>[00:00:18] The Kindred Connection: Natalie introduces Shavonne and describes their long-standing connection, which began in the San Antonio and New York professional theater scenes.</p><p>[00:00:37] Planting the Seed: Shavonne first introduced the host to the nonprofit Abode years before the host became affiliated with the organization.</p><p>[00:01:28] From Theater to CEO: How Shavonne stepped in as interim CEO of Abode, reuniting the friends to discuss everything from Broadway musicals to end-of-life care.</p><p>[00:01:57] A Performer&#39;s Life: Shavonne&#39;s background as a professional actor and singer, including appearances on shows like Late Night with David Letterman and Law &amp; Order.</p><p>[00:02:21] Earning Her Wings: The spiritual significance of Shavonne lending her alto voice to sing at funerals and the bedside of people at the end of life.</p><p>[00:03:41] Meet the Doggy Death Doula: Shavonne introduces Mikey, her 155-pound Great Pyrenees, who gets into bed with guests at Abode to provide &quot;doggy comfort&quot; and emotional support.</p><p>[00:07:09] The Philosophy of Care: Discussion on the Abode philosophy of meeting people where they are, focusing on connection, and filling in the &quot;missing pieces&quot; of their day, such as a hand on a hand or reading a favorite book.</p><p>[00:08:12] How Shavonne Found Abode: Siobhan shares the story of how singing at a particular funeral led her to her first encounter with Abode.</p>