About the author

Lisa Herbert is an author, journalist and audio producer, cemetery wanderer, death awareness advocate, blogger and public speaker. A media professional for more than 20 years, Lisa has worked as radio broadcaster, a TV reporter and producer.

Her interest in western society’s perception of death and dying was sparked as a teen after reading the books of renowned psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. The works, inspired by Dr Kübler-Ross’ work with terminally ill patients, were groundbreaking at the time. Never before had the emotional needs of the dying been given attention by the medical profession.

It’s now more than 50 years on and many people are still reluctant to talk about the inevitable. However, while researching The Bottom Drawer Book, Lisa found that once the discussion began people opened up and gave their mortality some measured thought. All they needed was someone to initiate the discussion. And that’s where The Bottom Drawer Book comes in, openly and respectfully starting the conversation.

In the media

In conversation with author Lisa Herbert

A ‘Dying to Know Day’ webinar

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Coffin-swapping allegations prompt calls for better regulation

ABC News

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Baby boomers and death doulas

ABC News

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Talking about death will not kill you

A podcast with Lisa Maree Hunter

Listen Here

Lisa Herbert is dying to talk

An article by Palliative Care Australia

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It’s your death… book it in

Northern Daily Leader

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Action plan after death

Hunter Valley News

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Dying to know: 22 things you didn’t know about death and funerals

The Carousel

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Checklist before dying

Janine Fitzpatrick’s blog ‘Shambolic Living’

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How to cope with depression, death & grieving for someone you don’t know

The Carousel

Read Here

Popular in front of a crowd

A sought-after public speaker, Lisa is an enthusiastic and engaging communicator. You’ll be surprised at her ability to make a somewhat confronting issue into a fun, interesting and thought-provoking session – and your attendees will soon be chuckling about a subject they never thought would be up for public discussion.

Are you looking for a dynamic keynote speaker with a unique and refreshing perspective? Or perhaps you’re after a workplace engagement activity to reaffirm the value of each employee and their story. Contact Lisa to discuss her availability for your next conference or event.

“A spirited, excellent and popular presentation.”

“I was privileged to be one of the audiences at your talk to members of the Association of Independent Retirees. Your talk was delivered with confidence, sparkle, enthusiasm and genuine concern for the topic. In my wanderings around the city, I have not met one person who did not enjoy your presentation. Importantly, too, Lisa, you were very appropriately presented and that created confidence and respect for you among we aging members.”

“On behalf of the members of the Tamworth Day View Club, I wish to convey a big thank you for speaking about your book. Your talk stimulated quite a bit of discussion. Many members commented how interesting they found your talk and thought recording our after-death wishes was something we should all think about and put into action.”