Avsnitt
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, Dr. Natasha Davendralingham sits down with Professor Susie Shelmerdine, academic radiologist, AI thought leader, and co-founder of Anubix. Susie shares her journey into post-mortem imaging, how a personal experience shaped her career, and the creation of the world’s first post-mortem imaging education platform. She also discusses the evolving role of AI in death care, the misconceptions around post-mortem imaging, and why open conversations about death are so important.
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, Dr. Susie Shelmerdine sits down with Dr. Natasha Davendralingham, co-founder of Anubix and post-mortem radiologist, to discuss the journey of building a pioneering post-mortem imaging service.
Natasha shares her path from medicine to entrepreneurship, the challenges of launching a business in the death care sector, and the passion that drives her work. She also opens up about the misconceptions surrounding private-sector innovation in forensic imaging and the importance of supporting bereaved families through expert-led care.
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
This month, we present the following article:
Loughnan SA, Wojcieszek AM, Singline L, et al. Post-Mortem Imaging to Investigate the Causes of Stillbirth in Australia: Views of Parents, Midwives and Obstetricians.
Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology. 2025;0:1–10. doi: 10.1111/1754-9485.13828.
The discussion explores the role of post-mortem imaging (PMI) in stillbirth investigations, examining the perspectives of parents, midwives, and obstetricians. Findings reveal that PMI is underutilised, with many healthcare providers unsure of its value compared to traditional autopsy. The study highlights the need for increased education and awareness to improve uptake and integration of PMI in perinatal death investigations.
NB. Each episode is AI-generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest, and importance of the topic.
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Dr. Mark Viner and Lindsay Batty-Smith sit down with Rachel Duncan, a Metropolitan Police Coroner’s Officer, to explore the vital but often misunderstood role of coroner’s officers in death investigations.
Rachel shares her journey from forensic science student and special constable to her current role, where she supports bereaved families, gathers critical information for coroners, and helps navigate the complex inquest process. She also opens up about the emotional challenges of working with cases involving child deaths, suicide, and medical complexities—and how she finds strength through faith, community, and self-care. Join us for this insightful conversation that sheds light on the human side of forensic and death investigation work.
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay interview Kerry Daynes, one of the UK’s most trusted forensic psychologists. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Kerry has worked with everyone from serial killers to vulnerable individuals, delving into the human psyche and the systemic challenges of justice.
Kerry offers insights into her pioneering work, the importance of 'rational compassion,' and unforgettable cases that shaped her perspective. She also discusses her bestselling books, The Dark Side of the Mind and What Lies Buried, which reveal the human stories behind the headlines.
This episode explores the complexities of criminal behaviour, the shortcomings of the justice system, and the hope for a more compassionate approach to rehabilitation.
-
Welcome to the February Journal Club!
This month, we present the following article:
Iles L. The utility of postmortem radiological imaging in forensic neuropathology practice. Pathology. 2024
Nov 14:S0031-3025(24)00293-9. doi: 10.1016/j.pathol.2024.10.005. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39668072.
Available here: https://www.pathologyjournal.rcpa.edu.au/article/S0031-3025(24)00293-9/fulltext
The discussion focuses on the integration of PMCT in forensic neuropathology, highlighting its strengths in detecting medium-to-large hemorrhages, guiding examination planning, and its limitations in identifying smaller injuries or vascular conditions. Tune in to explore the synergy of radiological imaging with traditional forensic methods, offering a deeper understanding of its potential in modern medicolegal investigations.
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay welcome Poppy Mardall, founder of Poppy’s Funerals, a trailblazer in the funeral industry. Poppy shares her journey from a career in art to creating a compassionate, human centred approach to end-of-life care. She discusses the challenges of transforming an outdated and unregulated sector, her mission to provide outstanding care for the living and the deceased, and her dedication to empowering families during one of life’s most vulnerable moments. This episode delves into the importance of honouring individuality in death, breaking taboos around grief, and creating meaningful choices for those left behind.
-
As a first journal club discussion for the new year, we present the article:
Davendralingam N, Brookes AL, Shah MA, Shelmerdine SC.
Post-mortem CT service structures in non-suspicious death investigations.
BJR Open. 2024 Oct 29;6(1):tzae036. doi: 10.1093/bjro/tzae036.
Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11568351/
This article reviews various service structures for post-mortem CT (PMCT) scans used as a less invasive alternative to traditional autopsies. It explores different PMCT scanner types—static, relocatable, and mobile—comparing their costs, advantages, and logistical challenges. The authors also examine diverse service models, including pathologist-led, radiologist-led, and hybrid approaches, and various reporting structures (in-house, teleradiology, or a combination). Real-world examples from UK institutions illustrate the practical implementation of these models. Finally, the article highlights the importance of adapting PMCT services to local needs and resources.
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay interview Julie Bramble, a former crime scene investigator and current forensic educator. With extensive experience in crime scene investigation and embalming, Julie shares her journey from the mortuary to crime scenes and the classroom. She provides insights into the realities of forensic work, the emotional challenges professionals face, and the importance of coping strategies and open communication. Julie also discusses her passion for teaching and how her practical experience informs her approach to educating the next generation of forensic experts. This episode dives into the world of crime scene investigation, the value of real-world learning, and the human side of forensic science.
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay speak with Amy-Lee Brookes, a dedicated radiographer specialising in forensic and post-mortem imaging. Amy discusses her transition from student radiographer to post-mortem CT lead and the challenges she faced building expertise in this niche field. She explores the future of forensic radiography, the importance of specialised training, and her passion for educating and inspiring the next generation of radiographers.
Amy also reflects on the role of digital transformation in forensic imaging and how technology is shaping the future of post-mortem investigations. This episode offers a thought-provoking discussion on the growing field of forensic radiography and its critical role in modern forensic science.
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay interview Dr. Fabrice Dedouit, a pioneering forensic radiologist and pathologist from the University of Paul Sabatier in Toulouse, France. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Dedouit shares his journey in establishing forensic imaging in France and the evolution of post-mortem CT and MRI techniques. He discusses the challenges and breakthroughs in applying imaging technology to forensic cases, from terrorist attacks to historical and anthropological investigations. Dr. Dedouit also delves into the emotional complexities of forensic work and the importance of resilience and collaboration. This episode provides an in-depth look into the transformative role of imaging in forensic pathology and its impact on modern forensic investigations.
Join us for an enlightening conversation that highlights the complexities and rewards of working in forensic imaging. Don't forget to follow and rate our channel, and stay tuned for more intriguing discussions that go beyond death.
-
In this episode of Beyond Death, David returns and interviews Dr. Ciaran Hutchinson, a consultant paediatric and perinatal pathologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London. With a PhD in minimally invasive autopsy, Dr. Hutchinson shares his unique experiences and insights into paediatric postmortem imaging and how this approach is reshaping parental consent and clinical practice. He discusses his research on micro-CT, minimally invasive autopsy techniques, and the role of pathology in providing closure and understanding for families experiencing loss. Dr. Hutchinson also reflects on the balance between clinical practice, academia, and innovation in paediatric pathology. This episode offers a deep dive into the evolving landscape of paediatric postmortem investigations and how new imaging techniques are transforming patient care and family experiences.
-
In this episode, Dr. Susie Shelmerdine takes over the mic to interview a very special guest - Dr. Padma Rao, a fellow children's imaging expert (paediatric radiologist) from The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. Dr. Rao is the Medical Director at her institute, but also assists with reporting paediatric postmortem radiology with the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM). She discusses how children's postmortem imaging is performed in Australia, when it is indicated, who pays for it and what sort of cases she sees commonly in her practice. She also gives some tips and suggestions for places to go for courses and education.
-
As a first for our channel we are starting a monthly journal club to highlight cutting edge research work in the post-mortem / death investigation space, with a focus on imaging.
In this episode we present the article:
Beardmore S, Adeley J, Brookes A, Robinson C, Davendralingam N, Joseph J, McManoman B, Morgan B.
Impact of changing from autopsy to post-mortem CT in an entire HM Coroner region due to a shortage of available pathologists.
Clin Radiol. 2023 Nov;78(11):797-803. doi: 10.1016/j.crad.2023.08.001. Epub 2023 Oct 5.
This work won an editor's prize from the journal Clinical Radiology - the journal of the Royal College of Radiologists and demonstrates how post-mortem imaging is changing normal practice in the UK.
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
-
In this episode, David speaks with Dr. Imogen Jones, an Associate Professor of Law from the University of Leeds, specialising in criminal law and medico-legal death investigations. Dr. Jones sheds light on the gaps between public perception and the reality of autopsies and medical death investigations, while also discussing the emotional labour involved in after-death care.
Her research into the hidden roles within the mortuary and her insights on digital transformation provide a fascinating look into how law, medicine, and technology converge.
If you’re curious about the legalities and ethical dimensions of death investigations, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.
-
Join us in this episode as David sits down with Charlotte John, an experienced healthcare professional with a fascinating journey from midwifery to Mortuary management and national audits with the Home Office. Charlotte shares her unique insights on working with end-of-life care, navigating grief, and the importance of after-death care. Her thoughts on digital transformation in the death space bring a fresh perspective on how we can improve healthcare for both the living and the deceased.
Don’t miss this captivating conversation about the vital, often hidden, work behind death care and how technology is shaping its future.
-
In this episode, David is joined by Angie McLachlan, the visionary behind the Ichabodies Death Dummies, a unique and creative approach to death education. Angie discusses her journey from working as an embalmer to becoming an educator, using highly realistic training dummies to help professionals better understand the complexities of body care and postmortem imaging.
Whether you’re a funeral director, death midwife, or someone interested in the deeper aspects of death care, Angie’s insights offer a rare glimpse into the hands-on training that prepares people for the emotional and physical realities of death. From handling complex conditions to navigating grief, her Ichabodies Death Dummies provide invaluable experience in this sensitive field.
Tune in to learn more about the intersection of art, science, and education in death care, and how Angie’s work is changing the way professionals engage with the end-of-life process.
-
On their first time hosting on this channel, Lindsay and Mark talk to Keiran Kelly.
Keiran is currently the Post Mortem CT lead radiographer at the East London Forensic Centre where he has helped set up and run the service in a permanent, local authority managed facility.
Previously he has been employed as the paediatric lead radiographer at the Royal London hospital and as a senior radiographer at St Georges hospital, where he would undertake, lead and teach other radiographers on skeletal survey examinations for suspected physical abuse in children. He started his MSc in Forensic radiography at Teesside university whilst a radiographer at St Georges and has recently just graduated. Keiran also sits on the committee for the UK branch of the international association of forensic radiographers as well as offering his services in forensic radiography to Kenyon international emergency services when needed as one of their team members. His interests are Post Mortem CT, SPA, DVI as well as governance and audit.
Whether you’re curious about the future of forensic radiography or the day-to-day life of a radiographer in a mortuary, this episode provides an insightful look into an emerging field.
-
In this episode, David and Asanda talk to HMC Miss Mutch OBE about the role of a senior coroner.
HMC Miss Mutch OBE is the senior coroner for the Greater Manchester South jurisdiction. In this podcast she explains to us what is the role of the coroner, what questions does the coroner need to satisfy regarding the death of an individual, what role does postmortem imaging play in this process and also what goes on during a coroner's inquest.
-
In this episode, David and Asanda talk to Mohamed Omer OBE about the beliefs, viewpoints and mindset regarding death and postmortem imaging from an Islamic perspective.
Mohamed Omer MBE has numerous roles on a wide range of enterprises. Most notable of these is his role as a board member for external affairs for the Gardens of Peace Muslim Cemetery, based in Hainault Essex. This is the largest dedicated Muslim Cemetery in Europe and has a capacity for > 10,000 graves and burials in accordance with Islamic Shariah. He is also a member of the Burial Cremation Advisory Group at the Ministry of Justice representing the Muslim Community and has been actively involved with community work in East London for the last 15 years.
In this episode he talks about the importance of his faith and how this relates to death investigations.
- Visa fler
