Grief Sucks - Life After Loss

Send us a text Jason, a father who bravely shares his deeply personal journey of parenting special needs children and the heart-wrenching loss of his son. Through his candid storytelling, Jason reveals the challenges he faced in balancing family dynamics and a career, culminating in the life-altering choice to become a stay-at-home parent. Jason also opens up about the raw reality of losing a loved one in the emergency room. Listeners are taken through the emotional whirlwind of such an experience—where societal expectations often dictate how men should handle grief—and the difficult decisions that follow, such as planning a funeral and choosing cremation. In sharing this part of his story, Jason sheds light on the immediate aftermath of loss and the often-overlooked emotional labor that comes with it, offering a perspective that is both enlightening and deeply human. But there is hope and healing in community and creativity. Jason highlights the transformative power of writing letters to his late son, which connected him with a supportive network of parents. As he navigates the complexities of male grief and the pressure to remain stoic, he finds solace in creating a grief coloring book as a tribute to his son Zachary. This project invited others to contribute their own memories, fostering a tactile and meaningful way to process grief. Join us as we explore the significance of community and remembrance, and how Jason's journey offers a beacon of hope for those facing similar paths. Letters To Zachary https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552174684952 https://www.instagram.com/letters2zachary/ Support the show

Send us a text What if the end of a relationship is not failure, but a courageous choice for growth? Join us on "Grief Sucks Life After Loss" as we sit down with Lindsay, who candidly shares her experience of concluding a 12-year marriage, not due to conflict, but because she and her ex-husband were evolving in different directions. Lindsay opens up about the challenging decision to prioritize modeling a healthy relationship for their children, confronting the grief of losing her identity as a stay-at-home mom, and embarking on the path of co-parenting and self-discovery. Lindsay's journey didn't stop at separation; it was just the beginning of an emotional renaissance. She embarked on a six-month transformative trip to Bali, focusing on self-care and emotional healing, which in turn had a profound impact on her relationship with her children. Listen as she reveals how navigating single parenting without support, and undergoing an intensive healing course, allowed her to express raw emotions and foster open conversations about self-worth, particularly influencing her daughter's ability to express her feelings. The theme of intuition and change runs deep in this episode. Lindsay talks about how life's subtle signs can lead to significant personal growth and healing. From the adventure of relocating to Bali to maintaining strong connections despite the distance, Lindsay shares how trusting her inner voice led her to create a dream life. This episode captures her journey of embracing the unknown, the transformative energy of Bali, and the endless allure of travel, leaving listeners inspired to pursue their own adventures. Lindsay has her own podcast called Breaking Free With Lindsay. Please take a moment to check it out. Website: https://www.breakingfreewithlindsay.com/ Podcast: https://www.breakingfreewithlindsay.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakingfreewithlindsay/ All support is greatly appreciated. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2255666/support Support the show

Send us a text Understanding grief is a journey, and as we return from an unexpected hiatus, Andrea and I take you through the complexities of our personal experiences. From the overwhelming task of being the sole parent to new challenges like teaching my child to drive, to the bittersweet emotions surrounding family milestones and anniversaries, we share honestly about the struggles and triumphs post-loss. We also explore the balance between seeking companionship and craving solitude, reflecting on how grief can resurface unexpectedly and leave us feeling stuck. Water has always held a unique allure, offering both tranquility and anxiety. Join us as we discuss the soothing yet daunting nature of the ocean, the calming presence of a balcony room on a cruise, and the joy of introducing newcomers to the serenity of the sea. Our upcoming travels, a cruise from Miami and a soccer tournament in Florida, are more than just trips—they are opportunities for healing and finding peace amid life's challenges. Throughout the episode, we tackle the emotional challenges of trauma and growth. From daily fears to the ways we process childhood issues, we consider therapies like psilocybin that offer new healing pathways. As Andrea and I share stories and insights, we emphasize the power of storytelling in finding resilience and hope in the face of loss. Whether it's through journaling, setting emotional boundaries, or exploring psychedelic therapies, we explore paths to self-awareness and peace, inviting you to join us in this journey of healing. All support is greatly appreciated. https://www.buzzsprout.com/2255666/support Support the show

Send us a text Ever found yourself adrift in the murky waters of grief, trying to grasp at normalcy while juggling the unforeseen burdens of loss? I, Linda, am your companion through this maze, as I reveal my own journey through the emotional fog. In this heart-to-heart episode of Grief Sucks Life After Loss, I pull back the curtain on the mental blocks that can immobilize us and share my resolve to push through for the sake of creativity and healing. And while we often wish grief came with a handbook, I take a moment to discuss a critical checklist circulating on social media, which could be a beacon for many navigating the aftermath without a guide. As a solo act this time around, I tackle the unspoken yet crucial to-dos that can alleviate the stresses of those we leave behind. From designating bank account beneficiaries to preventing the legal labyrinth of probate with a transfer on death deed, I lay bare the practicalities that come with the final curtain call. Sharing insights into living wills and durable powers of attorney, I aim to arm you with the knowledge to honor last wishes with dignity and grace. So join me as we confront the inevitability of loss with foresight, ensuring our loved ones can mourn without the added weight of legal entanglements. This episode isn't just a lesson in preparedness—it's a heartfelt guide through the thorny path of loss, leading to a clearing of peace and preparedness. Here is a link for a planner where you can leave all of your important information for your loved ones. https://amzn.to/43Y0Ti3 Support the show

Send us a text When Mandy's voice breaks recounting the night her brother's life was brutally snatched away by gun violence, it's a poignant reminder that the stories we share are more than mere words—they're windows into the deepest parts of our human experience. Join us as Mandy bravely opens up about the void left in the wake of her brother's death, and how a community found unity in their collective heartache. We navigate the turbulent emotions that ripple through friends, family, and strangers alike, each grappling with the loss and the touching legacy Chris left behind. This conversation is a raw look at the threads of connection that bind us, the strength we draw from each other, and the resilience required to move forward. In the face of tragedy, it's often the decisions made in the darkest hours that illuminate the enduring spirit of hope. Mandy recounts the family's journey through the night Chris was shot, their agonizing hours in the hospital, and the unanimous decision to donate his organs—an act that became a beacon of hope for another family amidst their own despair. This episode doesn't just speak to the grief that accompanies loss; it highlights the powerful, transformative potential of organ donation and the community's role in supporting those who grieve. We uncover the beauty in selfless acts that reach beyond one's own life, weaving a legacy that transcends death. Grief is a deeply personal journey, and the path to healing is seldom straight. In sharing my own struggles with bereavement, I aim to foster a sense of solidarity with listeners navigating similar challenges. This episode also delves into the tender process of guiding children through grief, honoring Mandy's brother's memory in a way that embraces his spirit as a protective presence in their lives. We discuss the importance of keeping those we've lost present through stories, symbols, and the courageous act of organ donation. There's solace in shared narratives, and through this conversation, we hope to offer comfort and understanding to all who have faced the anguish of saying goodbye. Support the show

Send us a text Grief is a voyage through the darkest of tunnels, where the light at the end is often imperceptible. Imagine navigating this path while striving to guide your family out of the shadows and into a life rebuilt on the foundation of loss. That's the harrowing and ultimately inspiring journey our guest Tonje shares with us, as she recounts the transformation sparked by the passing of her youngest daughter, leading to what she calls her "life 2.0." Her courage to embrace personal growth and happiness as a tribute to her daughter's memory is a powerful lesson in love, resilience, and the human spirit's capacity to heal. Tonje, a coach, consultant, entrepreneur, and, most importantly, a mom and lifelong learner. Growing up as a tomboy and navigating male-dominated industries, she prided herself on her toughness, often keeping her emotions under wraps. Tonje always harbored a deep desire to help people but found it challenging to balance her tough exterior with the emotional aspects of support and empathy. Everything changed for Tonje when she faced the heart-wrenching experience of losing her daughter. This tragedy shattered her reality and forced her to rebuild her life with a new perspective – one where being tough didn't mean hiding her emotions. Today, Tonje is on a powerful mission: To equip 100 million people by 2040 with the emotional intelligence and resilient mindsets needed to create fulfilling lives. Her journey has transformed her approach to traditionally taboo subjects like death and grief, turning them into catalysts for meaningful conversations, stronger communities, and transformative personal growth. Tonje is here to share this journey with others, to explore how we can support each other through life's toughest challenges, and to find strength and fulfillment in even the most difficult moments. 7 step guide : Support your loved ones through tough times https://www.tonjewynjones.com/7stepsupport Support the show

Send us a text When the world around me darkened after the loss of my beloved husband KJ, I was a skeptic turned seeker, yearning for a thread of connection to the beyond. That's when I encountered Dylan from Opal's Truth, whose gift illuminated a path from profound grief to an unexpected friendship. Our latest episode walks you through this personal odyssey, from the initial chill of doubt to the warm embrace of validation that only a true psychic medium can offer. We unravel the tapestry of loss and the comfort that comes with knowing our loved ones are still with us, guiding us through Dylan's remarkable insights that resonated with my soul. The energy of a gallery reading is both electric and intimate, a collective breath held and then released in awe as messages from the other side filter through Dylan's channeling. We reflect on the delicate balance a medium must strike—performing without artifice, creating a sacred space for both the curious and the bereaved. It's a dance of the spirit, wherein each step is taken with integrity, and every revelation is a step towards healing. We also open up about the challenges and responsibilities that come with such a profound gift, including how to maintain personal boundaries while being a vessel for others' emotional journeys. We celebrate the continuity of energy in virtual readings and the privilege of touching lives across the globe. Join us as we share the gratitude and joy found in the messages we're entrusted to deliver—a testament to the enduring bond between this world and the next. If you would like to connect with Dylan, you can find him on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/764636180412001/ or on his website https://www.opalstruth.com/ Support the show

Send us a text When the unimaginable happens and we're left to pick up the pieces in the wake of a loved one's passing, where do we find the strength to rebuild? This episode promises to guide you through that tender journey, with Cindy, a life purpose and grief coach, opening up about her own path to rediscovery after her husband's death. Her candid sharing of the early fog of "widow brain" and the pursuit of a refreshed identity amid grief's chaos will validate your experiences and perhaps illuminate your own path forward. As we weave through the complexities of starting anew, we uncover the empowering aspects of grief coaching, an often-overlooked companion in the healing process. Cindy's insights reveal how striking a delicate balance between cherishing memories and daring to embrace joy can lead to profound self-discovery and growth. From solo travel to creating new traditions, she and I discuss the pivotal steps toward reshaping one's life with purpose and intention, a theme resonating throughout our heartfelt dialogue. The narrative doesn't shy away from the diverse faces of loss—the quiet goodbyes, the abrupt farewells, and the grief that extends beyond death to encompass the departure of pets, careers, and friendships. The chapter on the universal upheavals of the COVID-19 pandemic touches on collective grief and the quest for a new normal, setting the stage for my reflections on the role of a grief coach and the unveiling of Cindy's "Finding Yourself" program. Join us in this intimate exploration of life's second act—a testament to the resilience within us all. You can find Cindy's grief journal here Guided Grief Journal (cindyjburns.com) If you would like to learn more about what Cindy does you can find that here Finding Purpose | Finding Purpose for Widows (cindyjburns.com) Support the show

Send us a text When my cousin Andrea walked through the unimaginable path of grief after her mother passed, she found solace in the snips and buzzes of hair shears, channeling her pain into the pursuit of her dream. Now, she sits down with me to share how embracing her journey through mourning led to the birth of her own salon, proving that within the heartache there can be room for growth and the realization of dreams. Our conversation moves through the tender recollections of loved ones and the laughter that echoes from memories shared, underlining the notion that grief, while deeply personal, can also be accompanied by moments of joy and humor. One thing's for certain, grief knows no universal shape; it molds itself to our unique experiences and the tapestry of our relationships. As Andrea and I navigate through the emotional landscape, I reveal my own encounters with grief's unpredictable waves—how they have caught me off-guard amidst life's simple routines and taught me the importance of self-care and embracing change. We talk about the strength found in the connections we foster, and how these bonds become our lifelines as we chart new territories in our lives post-loss. And let's not forget, grief isn't confined to the realm of death—it can result from the end of a friendship, the departure of a cherished pet, or the abandonment of a long-held dream. As we wrap up, Andrea and I reflect on the holistic impact of loss, likening our lives to a jigsaw puzzle where missing pieces affect every part of the picture. We discuss the healing power of support, the therapeutic release in our tears, and how self-compassion can guide us through the complexities of grief. This episode is an intimate exploration of the transformative path from sorrow to strength, and the courage to honor our emotions on this journey. Support the show

Send us a text When the world crumbles around you, what's left of your commitments? With raw emotion, I, Linda Carter, take you through the labyrinth of grief after the loss of my dear husband, KJ. It's a solitary journey, one where commitments take on new meaning and sincerity in relationships becomes your guiding star. I share my personal narrative of tightening my inner circle, the power behind a deliberate 'no', and the unforeseen strength found in solitude. The heartache of loss extends beyond personal woes, touching the lives of children, an area that demands our gentle attention. Prepare to hear more on this as we open our doors to those who have stories to echo in future episodes. This intimate discussion also offers solace to those who find themselves judged in their grieving. Healing isn't one-size-fits-all, and I recount the bespoke pathways I've carved out, from combating panic attacks to seeking solace in nature’s redbirds. The chapter closes with a candid moment, an apology for the brevity of our talk due to an untimely ailment, and a promise for richer, more in-depth conversations to come. Your contributions are the heartbeat of our next episodes, and I welcome your stories and topics as we continue this exploration of life, loss, and the commitments that shape us. Support the show

Send us a text Part 2 of episode 2 (Due to technical issues) Ever found yourself searching for signs from a loved one who's passed on? Ever been comforted by a flickering light or a sudden bird sighting? We've been there too, and this episode is permeated with our personal experiences navigating the seas of grief, while highlighting the power of resilience and the importance of self-care during these challenging times. We shine a light on the dynamics of relationships after a loss, and how we've strived to not be defined by our struggles. We reveal the value of surrounding ourselves with people who sprinkle joy into our lives. Finally, we'll take you through our personal experiences with signs and messages from those who have passed on. We touch on the comfort and connection these signs bring, and even discuss the importance of setting boundaries with the spirit world. Stay tuned as we explore the various coping mechanisms we've used, including tattoos and mediums, and the solace found in knowing that we're not alone in our struggles. A sometimes humorous, heartwarming, and healing conversation - we hope it resonates with you as deeply as it did with us. Support the show

Send us a text They say laughter is the best medicine, but can it truly mend a broken heart? Shelby, our courageous guest, shares her journey through the darkest valleys of grief, proving that even in the wake of tragedy, humor can be a beacon of hope. This episode isn't just a story of loss; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of moving forward, and the unexpected solace that can be found in the aftermath of sorrow. Witness how Shelby's life was reshaped by the loss of her parents, and how she has chosen to navigate the complexities of grief without allowing it to consume her identity. Parenting in the shadow of grief is an untold story of many, and Shelby doesn't shy away from the raw realities of this challenge. This conversation peels back the layers of what it means to guide a child through their own mourning while grappling with personal loss. Through Shelby's experiences, we gain insights into the diversity of grief within a family, the awkwardness that death can bring, and the surprising comfort found in simple acts of kindness. Her narrative is a poignant reminder that while grief may evolve and take on different forms, the essence of family and the support we extend to one another remains unwavering. Navigating the choppy waters of bereavement and impending motherhood, Shelby confronts the heightened protectiveness and trust issues that emerge in the face of such profound loss. Her story is not just about coping; it's about the fierce determination to shield her child from despair while also preparing to bring new life into a world that has been clouded by sadness. Shelby’s strength and tenacity offer a powerful message of hope for anyone facing adversity, proving that even amidst the worst of storms, we can find the courage to keep sailing. Join us as we honor the strength and vulnerability that come with the most challenging roles life throws our way. Support the show

Send us a text When life threw me the kind of curveball that leaves you breathless, I had two choices: crumble under the weight of grief or rise from its ashes. This is Linda Carter, and you're about to step into a world where raw emotions converge with a celebration of the human spirit, right here on Grief Sucks Life After Loss. In our inaugural episode, I unfold the harrowing tale of losing my husband and his mother on a day that was supposed to be about festive candles and birthday wishes; instead, it became a marker of my own rebirth through mourning. This isn't just my platform; it's a beacon for all who have endured the sting of loss. Here, we peel back the layers of grief in all its forms, whether it's the death of a cherished one, the end of a friendship, or the haunting presence of 'what ifs.' You'll find solace in shared stories, and perhaps you'll add your voice to this tapestry of healing. Every other Friday, a fresh episode will emerge—sometimes it's just you and me, other times we'll have the wisdom of guests who've walked this path. So brace yourself for an unscripted journey through laughter, tears, and the power found in moving forward together. Support the show

Send us a text When Andrea joined me to share her story of loss. we found ourselves navigating the heart-wrenching paths of grief together. Throughout our conversation, she bravely offers a window into the solace she's discovered through expression and support, while we both share the unique ways we've grappled with loss. It's a topic that touches everyone, yet the way we stumble and stride through our sorrow is deeply personal. We lay bare the challenges of processing grief, from the heightened emotions during holidays to the intricate task of guiding our children through their own bereavement. Finding a therapist who fits can feel like a relentless quest, yet it's a crucial part of our healing journey—a truth Andrea and I have both faced head-on. We candidly discuss the emotional toll of retelling our narrative to different counselors, the nuances often lost in communication, and the laughs and frustrations that come with it all. Furthermore, we contemplate the unexpected shifts in our identities and relationships in the wake of loss, recognizing that despite the pain, we find ways to move forward and cling to the moments that bring us joy. We wrap up this episode with a peek into the lighter side of life's unpredictability, as I recount the whimsy and challenges of rural living—complete with cow escapades and the need for a bovine companion for our lonely farm friend. Andrea's presence not only enriches our dialogue but also reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit. So, whether you're in the midst of mourning, searching for mental health support, or simply in need of a heartfelt chuckle, this episode offers companionship and a reminder that in sorrow and in humor, we are not alone. Support the show

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