Grief & Happiness

If you've ever wondered how children can learn to face grief with courage and creativity, episode 370 is for you. Author and educator Jerry Woodbridge joins Emily to share how her experiences of loss and widowhood inspired her to write Joy Overcame Sorry, a middle-grade novel that helps kids process the death of a parent through story and journaling. With wisdom drawn from her own grief journey, Jerry shows how writing, empathy, and faith can guide children—and their families—toward resilience, healing, and hope.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(01:01) Jerry's lifelong calling as a teacher and writer(02:30) The devastating losses that shaped her perspective on grief(06:45) How journaling provided clarity and emotional release(10:40) From grief to creativity: writing her first book Trading My Sorries for the Joy of the Lord(13:40) Why empathy—not casseroles—helps grievers feel seen(16:30) Turning pain into purpose and helping others heal(20:36) The differences between sudden and anticipatory grief(23:06) How children process grief—and why resources like camps and books matter(25:21) Choosing joy while holding sorrow at the same timeIn today's episode, I'm joined by Jerry Woodbridge, an educator, author, and grief advocate who helps children and families process loss through storytelling and journaling. After the deaths of her husband and four babies, Jerry turned to writing as a way to find clarity and healing. Author of Joy Overcame Sorry and its companion Joy's Journal, she draws on her decades of teaching experience and personal journey to guide middle-grade children in expressing emotions. Through her books and commitment to grief literacy, Jerry shows how writing and empathy can transform sorrow into resilience and hope.Throughout this episode, Jerry shares how journaling became her lifeline after losing her husband and four babies. What began as private writing grew into books that help children put words to their grief. She introduces Joy Overcame Sorry, a story of a ten-year-old coping with her father's death, and Joy's Journal, a companion that guides kids through their own emotions. Jerry highlights the value of early grief literacy, the difference between sympathy and empathy, and the healing power of presence. Her message shows how sorrow and joy can coexist, with love as the bridge between them.Connect with Dr. Jerry Woodbridge:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeLinkedInXGet Jerry's books!Let's Connect: WebsiteThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Writing a list of happy experiences you have had can bring you joy and give you lots of things to write about in your journal!Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever wondered how it's possible to survive the loss of a child, episode 368 is for you. Author and healer Vickie Menendez joins Emily to share how losing four children became the catalyst for her healing, spiritual connection, and mission to help others. Through stories of synchronicities, raising vibration, and reframing grief into love, Vickie shows how even the deepest sorrow can transform into purpose.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(01:03) The book that came from the heart(01:49) Reframing tragedy through love(04:40) Messages through rainbows(06:11) First loss at 20 years old(07:40) Overdose and a cascade of losses(10:40) The double blow of 2017–2018(12:40) Discovering tools for healing(15:02) Transforming grief into purpose(25:38) The gift of mandalas(31:35) The chrysalis journeyIn today's episode, I'm joined by Vickie Menendez, a grief guide, author, and spiritual healer who helps others turn loss into healing and empowerment. After the unimaginable deaths of her four children, she discovered practices that reframed grief through love and spiritual growth. Author of Mother of All Memoirs: The Crystal's Butterfly Effect and The Compass to the Soul, Vickie blends personal experience with modalities like breathwork, mandala art, and MAP (Make Anything Possible) therapy. Through her books, workshops, and private sessions, she shows others how to raise their vibration, process emotions, and reconnect with their true essence, offering hope and practical tools for navigating profound loss.Throughout this episode, Vickie shares her journey from the stillbirth of her daughter in 1980 to the later losses of three more children. Though devastating, these experiences became the foundation of her healing work. She explains how spiritual coaching, breathwork, and MAP therapy helped her process grief and shift perspective. Instead of remaining in sorrow, she now sees her children as pure love, often felt through signs like rainbows and synchronicities. She highlights the power of raising one's vibration to connect with loved ones, honoring their legacies by helping others heal, and transforming pain into purpose.Connect with Vickie Menendez:WebsiteInstagramTikTokVickie Menendez: Mother of All Memoirs book seriesLet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Everyone needs people, especially while grieving. Listen to Michal Franti's song here.People need People: https://youtu.be/PaDUAGcfuWw?si=CUH-ctFnhxEB-cRALet's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever wondered how to talk to children about death, episode 366 is for you. Author and grief advocate Clarissa Moll shares how losing her husband reshaped life as a widowed mother of four—and why honest conversations help kids more than protection. Through her children's book Hope Comes to Stay and her own story, Clarissa shows how grief can grow resilience, compassion, and even joy.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(1:00) Life shattered by sudden loss(1:40) Choosing joy amid grief(2:40) The story behind hope comes to stay(4:30) Teaching kids that pain exists—and joy too(5:10) The myth of invincibility(8:30) Why we must talk about death with children(13:40) Lost rituals, lost comfort(15:40) The power of consolation and community(17:30) The limits of online support(18:50) Staying present for the grievingIn today's episode, I'm joined by Clarissa Moll, an author, podcaster, and grief advocate who helps people navigate loss with honesty and hope. After her husband's sudden death in 2019, Clarissa began writing and speaking about grief, parenting through loss, and finding joy in life's hardest seasons. She produces and moderates The Bulletin, Christianity Today's flagship news podcast, and is the author of Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving After Loss and the children's book Hope Comes to Stay. Drawing on personal experience and compassionate insight, Clarissa encourages open conversations about death, resilience, and community. Through her books, podcasting, and speaking, she offers families practical tools to face grief together while cultivating compassion and courage. She lives with her four children, carrying forward her late husband's legacy with honesty and joy.Throughout this episode, Clarissa shares a deeply personal perspective on grief and resilience. After becoming a widowed mother of four, she dedicated her work to guiding others through loss, showing that grief, though painful, can nurture compassion and interdependence. In Hope Comes to Stay, she demonstrates how stories of hardship help children grasp both the reality of suffering and the possibility of joy. Clarissa stresses the importance of speaking directly with kids about death—avoiding euphemisms and giving them the language they need—and reflects on how modern culture conceals death, erasing rituals that once offered comfort. Ultimately, she highlights the irreplaceable role of community support—meals, childcare, presence—over the illusion of handling grief alone.Connect with Clarissa Moll:WebsiteInstagramSubstackLinkedInGet Clarissa's books!Let's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInTwitterThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover how to become friends with you mind so that it can serve you the best.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever wondered how to turn loss into hope, episode 364 of Grief and Happiness is for you. Advocate and author Ashlee Cramer shares how caring for her son through a rare cancer battle inspired her children's book Michael, The Boy Who Danced on the Waves. With honesty and strength, she reveals how writing, family, and resilience can transform grief into new ways of “dancing on the waves” of life.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(3:40) A son's rare diagnosis(6:10) The birth of a story in a hospital room(7:30) From surfboard to storybook(9:50) Hope without sugarcoating(11:30) Why siblings must be included(19:30) Writing as a lifeline(26:40) Practical advice for caregivers(35:20) Dancing forward, not backIn today's episode, I'm joined by Ashlee Cramer, Co-Founder and Chief Community Officer of No Patient Left Behind, a nonprofit advocating for affordable healthcare. A former dancer and early childhood educator, her life changed when her husband died of cancer in 2016 and later when her son Michael was diagnosed with a rare lymphoma. Ashlee became a full-time caregiver and advocate, raising awareness for pediatric cancer. During long hospital stays, she turned to journaling, which inspired her children's book Michael, The Boy Who Danced on the Waves—a hopeful story of resilience that also supports pediatric cancer research. Through her work, Ashlee blends personal strength with a mission to ensure no patient and no family feels left behind.Throughout this episode, Ashlee shares her journey with honesty and courage. She describes how writing evolved from a coping tool to the creation of Dancing on the Waves and stresses the importance of including siblings, being open with children, and using writing to ease grief and anxiety. Above all, she highlights the hope in her book—that while life may never return to “before cancer,” families can still find strength, connection, and joy by learning to “dance on the waves” in new ways.Connect with Ashlee Cramer:No Patient Left Behind Michael and Mom Talk CancerInstagramFacebookYouTubeBook: Ashlee Cramer - Michael, The Boy Who Danced on the WavesLet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grief lasts as long as love remains in your heart.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever wished you could hear a lost loved one's voice again, episode 362 is for you. Personal trainer, writer, and podcaster Jenny Skoog joins Emily to share how 30 minutes of saved voicemails from her late mother became the foundation for a powerful podcast—and a pathway to healing. Through stories of reconciliation, navigating religious estrangement, and preserving tangible keepsakes, Jenny reveals how honoring memories can transform grief into lasting connection.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(2:21) The voicemails that started it all(4:50) From estrangement to reconnection(7:40) A season of loss(9:30) Turning grief into art(12:38) Preserving memories with care(18:53) The power of being seen in grief(25:05) Alienation and chosen family(29:58) The things we keep(36:11) A legacy of connectionIn today's episode, I'm joined by Jenny Skoog, a New York–based personal trainer, writer, and podcaster whose work blends wellness, creativity, and storytelling. A former Emmy-nominated reality TV personality (Pushing It on Cozy TV), she brings authenticity and resilience to everything she does. After losing her mother, father, and sister in quick succession, Jenny transformed her grief into a podcast built around preserved voicemails from her late mother, tracing the evolution of their relationship. With a master's degree in biography and memoir, she is committed to honoring loved ones' stories while navigating the ethics of telling them. Her background in fitness, art, and writing gives her a unique lens on physical and emotional healing, inspiring others to embrace honesty, connection, and the power of preserving memories.Throughout this episode, Jenny reflects on navigating profound loss amid religious estrangement from most of her family. She shares how saving her mother's voicemails—begun on a hunch years earlier—became both a lifeline and the heart of her podcast. Her insights center on reconciliation, storytelling's transformative power, and the tangible keepsakes—letters, recipes, art—that keep connections alive. Jenny underscores the impact of being “seen” during grief, recounting moments of unexpected kindness, and explores the challenges of sharing personal histories when loved ones valued privacy. Her perspective is defined by authenticity, respect, and a deep desire to preserve the essence of those she's lost.Connect with Jenny Skoog:WebsiteInstagramSubstackLinkedInPodcast: The Silence Between HelloLet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInFacebookThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Write about what you do to practice loving self-care.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've struggled to let go of guilt after loss, episode 360 is for you. Dr. Dravon James—pharmacist, life coach, and author of Forgiveness: The Path to Happiness—joins Emily to explore how unforgiveness, especially toward ourselves, can prolong pain. Through personal stories and tools like unsent letters and journaling, she shares how self-forgiveness leads to real healing and peace.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(3:20) Forgiveness starts with self-awareness(4:42) The power of self-forgiveness in grief(9:29) Blame delays healing(17:37) Writing as a tool for release(22:40) From unforgiveness to empowerment(26:17) Turning pain into purpose(29:23) Gratitude and forgiveness go hand in handIn today's episode, I'm joined by Dr. Dravon James, a transformational speaker, author, life coach, and founder of the Everyday Peace movement. With over 30 years of experience as a pharmacist, Dr. James combines her healthcare background with a passion for personal growth, helping others navigate life through mindfulness, empowerment, and forgiveness. She's the author of Forgiveness: The Path to Happiness, a practical guide to emotional freedom, and has also appeared as an actress on HBO's The Wire. Her unique blend of professional expertise and personal resilience allows her to connect deeply with audiences, inspiring them to find peace and purpose right where they are.Throughout this episode, Dr. James offers powerful insight into forgiveness—especially in the context of grief. She highlights self-awareness as the first step toward healing and encourages listeners to acknowledge their emotions without judgment. Forgiveness, she explains, is not about excusing wrongs but reclaiming inner peace. Sharing her own journey with self-forgiveness, she illustrates how writing—particularly through personal journaling—can be a transformative tool. Her wisdom reframes forgiveness not as weakness, but as a path to freedom and emotional strength.Connect with Dr. Dravon James:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFacebookBook: Dr. Dravon James - Forgiveness: The Path to HappinessLet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You can grieve and be happy at the same time. This episode tells you how.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever questioned loving again after loss—or felt judged for moving on—episode 358 is for you. Author Tony Stewart shares how he navigated grief after his wife Lynn's death and the guilt that followed when he began a new relationship, even with her blessing. Through honest reflection, Tony shows how love and loss can coexist—and how healing doesn't mean forgetting.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(0:57) A shocking diagnosis that changed everything(2:30) Living with terminal illness—and with intention(4:50) Hospice and the beauty in goodbye(6:30) Grief begins—and it's not what he expected(8:40) Finding love again—and the guilt that came with it(10:40) Grief and love can coexist(12:50) The power of talking about the person you lost(20:30) Music, memory, and sudden waves of grief(27:30) Turning journaling into a lifeline (and a book)In today's episode, I'm joined by Tony Stewart—author, retired educator, and heartfelt storyteller—who shares his powerful journey through love, loss, and renewal. After his wife Lynn was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, Tony began chronicling their experience on CaringBridge, a practice that became the foundation for his memoir Carrying the Tiger: Living with Cancer, Dying with Grace, Finding Joy While Grieving. Through his writing and lived experience, Tony offers a moving reflection on caregiving, grief, and the unexpected path to love again, reminding us that even in sorrow, there can be beauty.Throughout this episode, Tony brings candid insight and emotional depth as he reflects on Lynn's diagnosis, the tender challenges of caregiving, and the complexities of mourning while forming a new relationship. He shares how journaling helped him navigate his grief and how community support shaped his healing. With honesty and grace, Tony explores guilt, memory, and resilience, offering comfort and perspective to anyone facing loss.Connect with Tony Stewart:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFacebookSubstackBook: Tony Stewart - Carrying the TigerLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think of when someone brought light into your life just when you needed it most.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever questioned your strength after a loss or wondered how to find light in grief, episode 356 is for you. Grief coach and author Sam Miller shares how losing his father—and living with cerebral palsy—led him to ask: Do I have what it takes? Through honest stories and personal insight, Sam shows how journaling, legacy, and perspective can turn grief into purpose. This uplifting episode is for anyone ready to find hope in the healing process.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(0:55) Born with a challenge, living with purpose(3:00) Grief as catalyst: Losing his father(5:00) Writing through the pain(7:30) Legacy like a bank account(10:00) Embracing disability, rejecting shame(13:00) The healing power of helping others(14:30) Happiness and grief can coexist(18:00) Friendships that fade—and ones that return(22:00) Finding answers in the dark(27:00) Remembering who you areToday, I'm joined by Sam Miller—also known as Coach Sam or Sam I Am—an author, speaker, and coach committed to supporting individuals and families affected by disability and grief. Born with cerebral palsy, Sam has turned adversity into purpose, especially in empowering youth to move from limitation to possibility. With a background in sports journalism, he brings a storyteller's insight to his books I'm Possible: Life Lessons on Thriving with a Disability and I'm Possible: Journey—Finding Treasure in the Midst of Grief. Through coaching, workshops, and speaking, Sam helps others navigate challenge with strength and intention.Throughout this episode, Sam shares how his lived experience—and the loss of his father—inspired his second book, which grew from raw, real-time journaling. He reflects on how grief invites us to be present, feel fully, and still remain open to joy. With honesty and heart, Sam explores how storytelling, focus, and honoring legacy can help transform pain into purpose—for himself and others walking similar paths.Connect with Sam Miller:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookYouTubeGet Sam's books!Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you experience grief in your body? If you are carrying a heavly load of grief, know that weight lightens over time. What can you do now to take the best care of yourself while grieving? Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever struggled to find the right words—or any words at all—when someone you care about is grieving, episode 354 is for you. Grief activist Lisa Keefauver and artist Rachel Kroh reveal how their hand-printed card collection is changing the way we support each other in loss, offering messages that are honest, beautiful, and deeply human. They share personal stories of heartbreak, cultural myths that make grief even harder, and why showing up with presence—not platitudes—can transform relationships. If you want to be a better grief supporter (or feel less alone in your own sorrow), don't miss this conversation.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(01:01) Why we're grief-illiterate(03:32) Art as a response to loss(08:55) A podcast, a book, and a serendipitous collaboration(10:39) Making cards by hand, with heart(13:35) The power of presence over platitudes(15:01) Beauty as a tool for healing(22:44) Designing for all types of grief(27:02) Permission to feel it all(38:39) Redefining support through contrast and colorIn today's episode, I'm joined by Lisa Keefauver and Rachel Kroh. Lisa Keefauver, MSW, is a grief educator, author, and host of the Grief is a Sneaky Bitch podcast, with over two decades of experience as a clinical social worker. After the death of her young husband, Lisa founded Reimagining Grief to improve grief literacy and help people show up with compassion rather than clichés. Rachel Kroh is a visual artist and founder of Heartell Press, a letterpress card company known for its hand-carved designs that bring care and sincerity to life's most difficult moments. When Rachel couldn't find a card that expressed what she needed during her mother's terminal illness, she began creating her own. Together, Lisa and Rachel co-created Reimagining Grief, a line of empathy cards that blend healing words with hand-printed artwork—designed to support people in grief with beauty, presence, and deep emotional honesty.Throughout this episode, grief educator Lisa Keefauver and artist Rachel Kroh share the story behind Reimagining Grief, their hand-printed empathy card collection designed to help people show up with care during times of loss. Lisa reflects on her personal and professional experience with grief and the harm caused by silence or cliché responses. Rachel describes how her mother's cancer inspired her to create sincere, emotionally honest cards. Together, they discuss the healing power of beauty, presence, and permission to feel deeply. By combining Lisa's compassionate words with Rachel's handmade designs, they offer a meaningful, lasting way to support grievers beyond traditional expressions of sympathy.Connect with Lisa Keefauver:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeApple PodcastConnect with Rachel Kroh:WebsiteInstagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you running away from your life? Toward your life? Ot somewhere in between?Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever carried guilt after a devastating loss or wondered if joy is possible again, episode 352 is for you. Psychotherapist P. Shavaun Scott shares how she survived her husband's revenge suicide—and slowly found her way back to laughter, trust, and purpose. Through honest storytelling and clinical wisdom, she reveals how narrative therapy, safe relationships, and even dark humor can support healing. This powerful episode offers hope for anyone navigating grief.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(1:34) The power of narrative therapy(2:49) Writing as a tool for grief(4:32) How community shapes our healing(6:06) Shifting the story after suicide (10:12) Learning to trust again (14:28) What healing really looks like(19:41) Creating a gentle life(27:42) The turning point: Laughter in the pool In today's episode, I'm joined by P. Shavaun Scott, a licensed psychotherapist, author, and speaker with over 30 years of experience supporting those healing from trauma and loss. Specializing in narrative therapy, she's worked with both victims and perpetrators of violence. Her books—including The Minds of Mass Killers and her memoir Nightbird—blend clinical insight with personal experience. Based in Oregon, Shavaun also lectures on mental health and personal transformation, helping others reframe pain and rediscover meaning through writing, therapy, and connection.Throughout this episode, Shavaun offers both professional insight and personal reflection on grief and healing. She shares how writing Nightbird helped her move from guilt after her husband's suicide to clarity and self-compassion. She emphasizes the value of narrative therapy, strong support systems, and creative self-care practices. Whether through therapy, time in nature, or finding joy in small moments, her story reminds us that transformation is possible—even after deep loss.Connect with P. Shavaun Scott:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeXBlueskyLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you live in the moment? Are you doing what you love to do?Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever felt isolated in your grief or unsure how to move forward after a major loss, episode 350 is for you. Jen Newberg, widow and founder of It's Lifey, shares how she transformed her pain into purpose by creating retreats and support spaces for others navigating life after loss. Learn how connection, storytelling, and even unexpected tools like writing can become powerful pathways to healing—and why community is essential when rebuilding your life.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(2:40) Why Jen founded It's Lifey and how a retreat in Costa Rica inspired her mission(5:35) Building a grief retreat from scratch—and why she's focused on in-person connection(9:10) How grief support circles offer more than comfort: they create deep bonds(11:40) The unexpected healing power of writing—even for people who don't see themselves as writers(15:00) How grief creates a ripple effect—and how to show up as a “grief ally”(18:45) The trauma of sudden loss abroad and navigating bureaucracy after her husband's death(21:40) Why storytelling helps shrink grief—and how your narrative evolves over time(24:30) Finding purpose through pain: why Jen views her work as a tribute to her late husband(28:50) What “grief growing smaller” really means, and why the firsts are the hardestIn today's episode, I'm joined by Jen Newberg, a Boston-based entrepreneur and community-builder who turned the sudden loss of her husband into a mission to support others through grief. Drawing from her own healing journey and background in nonprofit leadership—including her role at Boys & Girls Clubs of America—Jen founded It's Lifey, a retreat and support organization for people navigating major life transitions, especially young widows.Throughout this episode, Jen shares how creating It's Lifey helped her rediscover purpose and connection, and why in-person community is central to healing. She reflects on the unexpected power of writing and storytelling—even as someone who never considered herself a writer—and how simple support, like a weekly text, can mean everything. Her insights remind us that while loss is inevitable, it doesn't have to be faced alone—and that even in deep grief, purpose and joy can be found.Connect with Jen Newberg:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What kindness can you share with others? Make a plan, and do it today!Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever wondered what it would feel like to stay present at a loved one's death, or how to keep them close after they've passed, episode 348 is for you. Nancy MacMillan, psychotherapist, spiritual care provider, and author of The Call to the Far Shore, joins Emily for a tender and profound conversation about how reclaiming traditional practices around dying can bring peace, healing, and lifelong connection. Together, they explore how small rituals, presence, and storytelling can open a doorway to a more soulful grief experience.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(1:10) Why Nancy wrote The Call to the Far Shore despite not planning to write a book(2:30) What we've lost by distancing ourselves from death in modern society(5:10) Nancy's spiritual experience at her father's bedside(7:30) How she kept connection with her father alive through weekly "coffee chats"(9:40) Why death is not an emergency, and how staying present can shift your grief(11:00) The powerful ritual of tending to her mother's body for three days(14:20) How personal and ancestral rituals can ease the fear of death(17:00) The value of writing letters to loved ones who have passed(20:30) Simple ways to invite a felt sense of presence from someone who has died(25:00) How signs and synchronicities can affirm that love continues(29:10) The importance of including ancestors in our family stories and gatheringsIn today's episode, Emily is joined by Nancy MacMillan, a Canadian psychotherapist, spiritual care provider, and the author of "The Call to the Far Shore: Carrying Our Loved Ones Through Dying, Death, and Beyond." Drawing from decades of professional and personal experience, Nancy invites listeners to reimagine death as something sacred, present, and transformative. Her approach blends emotional insight with spiritual awareness, offering a path to connection and healing.Nancy shares stories of witnessing her father's final breath, caring for her mother's body at home, and finding ways to stay close to loved ones who have passed. She and Emily explore how gentle rituals, creative expression, and quiet presence can help us navigate grief while staying connected to the people we miss most. At its heart, this episode reminds us that love continues, and we can learn to feel its presence in new ways.Connect with Nancy MacMillan:WebsiteBook: The Call to the Far Shore: Carrying Our Loved Ones through Dying, Death, and BeyondJoin Nancy's NewsletterConnect with Emily Thiroux Threatt:WebsiteFacebookPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What can you do to live your best life?Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever wondered how to find yourself again after years of caregiving, silence, or loss, episode 346 of Grief and Happiness is for you. Brenda Coffee, author, blogger, and survivor, joins Emily for a deeply personal conversation about grief, trauma, and the long path back to yourself. Through stories of profound heartbreak and quiet resilience, Brenda shares how she went from being the strong one for everyone else to finally listening to her own voice.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(1:22) Brenda's first experience with profound grief: losing her father(4:00) Living with and caring for a mother with mental illness(5:30) Why trauma made Brenda grow up fast—and stay quiet for decades(8:10) Her first marriage, emotional abuse, and the moment she said, "No more"(12:30) Meeting her second husband and building a new life(14:50) The first experience of anticipatory grief during her husband's illness(17:40) Losing her second husband suddenly on Christmas Day(20:10) The complexity of grief: relief, heartbreak, and isolation(25:40) Why Brenda finally started writing—and what it healed(28:10) The silent cost of being "the strong one"(31:00) How writing and blogging became a path back to herself(33:10) A friend's phone call that helped her shift her perspective(36:50) What survivors really need—and the courage to be vulnerable(39:30) The importance of not comparing trauma or grief(42:10) How happiness can coexist with sorrowIn today's episode, I'm joined by Brenda Coffee, author of Maya Blue: A Memoir of Survival. Brenda is a former caregiver, writer, and speaker whose life has been shaped by loss, emotional abuse, and deep resilience. Her memoir offers a raw and honest look at surviving two marriages filled with illness, addiction, and tragedy. For decades, she put others first, but eventually, she found the strength to reclaim her own identity. Now, she uses her voice to support others in grief and guide them toward new beginnings.Throughout this episode, Brenda opens up about losing her father as a child, navigating her mother's mental illness, and surviving an emotionally abusive first marriage. She shares how caregiving for a husband with cancer became both a burden and a purpose, and how losing her second husband suddenly on Christmas Day unraveled everything she had rebuilt.Connect with Brenda Coffee:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFacebookMaya Blue: A Memoir of SurvivalRead Brenda's blog - 1010 ParkPlaceConnect with Emily Thiroux Threatt:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you cry about now? What can you do about that?Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever avoided talking about death with a loved one because it felt too uncomfortable or culturally off-limits, episode 344 is for you. Dr. Cynthia X. Pan, a leading expert in end-of-life care, shares practical strategies for navigating these sensitive conversations with empathy and clarity. Learn how to approach topics like advanced directives and final wishes—especially across cultural lines—so you can honor your loved ones' values and find peace in knowing you did right by them.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(1:25) The evolution of palliative care(2:55) Ethics and cultural diversity in end-of-life conversations(4:30) Reframing death with dignity and celebration(5:51) The power of showing up(6:47) Family dynamics and grief during COVID(10:05) Why advanced directives matter(14:30) When systems ignore patient wishes(15:44) Navigating cultural resistance to end-of-life talk(21:56) Breaking death taboos and redefining goodbyeIn today's episode, I'm joined by Dr. Cynthia X. Pan, a board-certified physician in internal medicine, geriatrics, and hospice and palliative medicine. She holds a BA in Biology from Harvard and an MD from Stony Brook University School of Medicine. Dr. Pan completed her internal medicine residency at the University of Rochester and a geriatrics fellowship at Harvard Medical School's Division on Aging. She now serves as Chief of Geriatrics and Palliative Care Medicine and Designated Institutional Official for Graduate Medical Education at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens. A Professor at Weill Cornell Medical College, she educates future healthcare providers on palliative care, cultural humility, and communication. Fluent in Mandarin and Spanish, she brings a multicultural lens to patient-centered care.Throughout this episode, Dr. Pan uses her medical background and personal experiences to share both clinical insight and emotional depth. She reflects on working in one of the most culturally diverse regions in the U.S., where sensitive end-of-life conversations require compassion and cultural awareness. Through stories of caring for her father and mother-in-law, she highlights the importance of honoring patients' wishes. She also discusses how to approach taboo topics like death with respect and indirect communication—especially in communities where such discussions are avoided. Her guidance helps us embrace these moments with courage, clarity, and connection.Connect with Dr. Cynthia X. Pan:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInBook: Exit Strategies: Living Lessons from Dying People Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can you recognize all the emotions you are dealing with while grieving? When you do, the is a way that will help you with each emotion. Give It a try. It works!Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever wondered what hides behind even the most loving relationships, this episode reveals how a psychologist faced love, betrayal, and loss—and found healing by writing the truth no one talks about.In today's episode, I'm joined by Dr. Bonnie Comfort, a licensed psychologist with over 30 years of experience working with individuals and couples. Her therapeutic focus has long centered on the emotional intricacies of marriage, intimacy, and identity. In her candid memoir, Staying Married is the Hardest Part, she shares the deeply personal story of her own marriage—one marked by love, painful conflict, and profound transformation. Through her writing and speaking, Dr. Comfort strives to challenge the assumption that therapists have it all figured out, using her voice to normalize conversations around sexual shame, grief, and the complexities of long-term relationships.Throughout this episode, Bonnie opens up about the 33-year journey she shared with her late husband, reflecting on how their struggles often paralleled those of her clients. She speaks with disarming honesty about topics rarely discussed openly—like body image, emotional disconnect, and the shame surrounding sexual incompatibility. Writing became a powerful tool in her healing process, allowing her to explore grief, process loss, and rediscover who she was outside the identity of a wife. Her insights highlight the ongoing connection we can maintain with lost loved ones and the importance of creative expression, vulnerability, and community as pathways to healing.Tune in as Dr. Bonnie Comfort shares how love, loss, and personal struggle led her to write a bold memoir—offering a heartfelt path to healing and self-discovery after grief.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Love, conflict, and loss (1:40)Why therapists write (3:12)Breaking the silence on sexual shame (4:45)The illusion of therapist perfection (6:30)Conversations with the dead (7:40)Loving more than one person (9:05)Rituals for grief and rediscovery (13:50)Saying yes to life again (18:40)Final reflections and resources (27:00)Connect with Dr. Bonnie Comfort:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInBook: Dr. Bonnie Comfort - Staying Married is the Hardest PartLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When the times comes to handle money at the time of someone's death, you will be grateful to be prepared.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover how finding joy in the darkest moments can ease the weight of loss—and why laughter might be the most underrated tool in your grief journey.In today's episode, I'm joined by Howard Miller, a seasoned business and communication coach, author, and founder of Fulcrum Point Partners. At his firm, he supports leaders in fostering clarity and human connection within organizations. With decades of experience teaching leadership and management, Howard brings a deep understanding of how communication shapes not only professional environments but also personal transitions, including caregiving and grief. He is the author of Burdens and Blessings: A Light-Hearted Approach for Middle-Age Folks Dealing with Aging Parents, a reflective and humorous account of navigating the emotional and logistical complexities of elder care. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Howard uses his voice to normalize conversations around death, aging, and finding moments of levity amid loss. His passion lies in helping others find clarity, humor, and peace—even during life's most difficult chapters.Throughout this episode, Howard brings that same depth and authenticity to the mic, blending practical experience with heartfelt emotion. He candidly shares how caring for his elderly parents shaped his understanding of grief, responsibility, and love. His humorous yet thoughtful approach to writing—especially in Burdens and Blessings—demonstrates how storytelling can help others feel seen and supported. Howard emphasizes the healing power of laughter even in the darkest moments, describing how humor became a bridge to connection within his family. He also reflects on the emotional weight of witnessing his mother's final moments and the challenges of unclear communication from healthcare providers. His insights offer both personal catharsis and broader value, encouraging listeners to plan ahead, speak clearly, and make space for both sorrow and joy.Tune in as Howard Miller shares how caring for his aging parents—and ultimately saying goodbye—led him to embrace humor, reflection, and resilience, offering a heartfelt guide for navigating grief with grace, clarity, and even laughter.In This Episode, You Will Learn:From son to caregiver: The spark behind his book (2:00)The power of writing in grief (3:22)Can you laugh through grief? Absolutely. (4:25)That final breath: The unspoken moment of death (10:35)The cost of euphemisms: When doctors don't say “die” (12:27)The importance of Advance Directives and clear wishes (15:37)Grief, logistics, and letting go (22:45)From personal loss to workplace wisdom (25:40)Independence, aging, and the hard conversations (31:26)Connect with Howard Miller:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookBook: Howard Miller - Burdens & Blessings: A Lighter-Hearted Approach for Middle-Aged Folks Dealing with Aging ParentsLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We should honor Veterans who die by suicide as a result of PTSD from their service with full benefits.Request your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide herehttps://www.griefandhappiness.com/pl/2147595767Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitter - @ThreattEmilyPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through GriefFacebookRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Left with nothing but a warning she'd never survive alone, she proved just how wrong that was—and discovered a life beyond anything she imagined.In today's episode, I'm joined by Elaine Valerie Thompson, an International Bestselling Author, Inspirational Speaker, Certified FlowCode Coach, Reiki Master Teacher, and Intuitive Healer. Based in New Zealand, Elaine spent over three decades living with chronic pain and navigating emotionally harmful environments before embarking on a profound journey of healing and transformation. As the founder of The Wellwishers Haven, she now helps others align their mind, body, and soul through holistic wellness coaching and energy work. With an empowering “Yes You Can” approach, Elaine teaches how to shift your frequency and mindset to attract love, health, and purpose. Her work is guided by deep faith and a commitment to helping others rise above adversity to embrace joy.Throughout this episode, Elaine shares a compassionate and deeply personal perspective, expanding the definition of grief to include emotional pain, chronic illness, and broken relationships. She speaks candidly about the toll of living unseen and unheard, both in her personal life and professional world, and how she reclaimed her power through spiritual healing and mindset work. Her insights reveal how internal transformation can shift what we attract externally, and how self-love is the foundation for meaningful change. Elaine's story is one of resilience, healing, and hope—offering listeners a moving example of what it means to grow through grief and choose joy on the other side.Tune in to episode 338 as Elaine Valerie Thompson shares how rising from chronic pain, emotional abuse, and career setbacks led her to embrace healing, self-love, and a new life of purpose—offering a powerful roadmap for transforming grief into inner strength and joy.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Introducing a life transformed (0:58)Redefining grief: Beyond death (1:30)33 years of pain and a silent struggle (2:08)The Easter Sunday escape (3:00)The mirror and the mindset shift (4:48)A proposal and a new chapter (6:30)Invisible wounds in work and relationships (11:03)Losing her job before surgery—and finding herself (12:30)Healing the frequency, attracting real love (15:00)Connect with Elaine Valerie Thompson:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you willing to feel better, to breathe easier, to start enjoying your life again? Then listen to this!Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When everything feels overwhelming and nothing makes sense, this conversation offers the clarity, connection, and practical tools you didn't know you needed—until now.In today's episode, I'm joined by Pam Baker, a widow, author, and community-builder based in the Atlanta area. After losing her husband to brain cancer in 2021, Pam transformed her grief into meaningful action by founding Widows Who Wine, a thriving social network that helps widows reconnect with joy and community. She also co-authored Where's the Key to the Safe?, a practical guide to navigating financial and legal challenges after loss, written alongside her nephew, a financial advisor. Now, Pam is preparing to launch The Lost Love Stories podcast, a heartfelt platform for honest conversations about love, loss, and life after death. Through all her work, Pam is driven by a mission to help others move from surviving to thriving with purpose, humor, and hope.Throughout this episode, Pam opens up about her personal journey and the deeply human moments that shaped her path forward. She reflects on the loneliness that often follows loss and the surprising ways connection can begin to heal it—like the first Widows Who Wine gathering that sparked a movement. She shares the inspiration behind her book, born from her own struggle navigating the “business of death,” and the importance of planning ahead with compassion. Pam also offers a preview of The Lost Love Stories podcast, where guests will be invited to remember their loved ones honestly—quirks, flaws, laughter and all. Her story is a reminder that grief and joy can coexist, and that healing often begins when we're given the space to be real.Tune in to episode 336 as Pam Baker shares how losing her husband to brain cancer inspired her to build vibrant communities, write a practical guide for navigating the “business of death,” and help others transform grief into connection, purpose, and joyful living.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Pam's story of loss (01:12)The birth of Widows Who Wine (02:45)More than just wine: A movement (04:40)The app that connects widows nationwide (05:53)The loneliness no one talks about (06:50)Where's the key to the safe? (09:21)Planning while grieving: What most miss (12:45)Breaking the silence around real grief (18:46)Widows as warriors: Rewriting the narrative (24:15)Connect with Pam Baker:Widows Who WineInstagramLinkedInLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you find yourself getting in your own way? You will feel better if you stop that!Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever felt completely shut down after a loss—unable to cry, think, or even get out of bed—this episode reveals why that happens and how to gently bring yourself back to life, one small step at a time.In today's episode, I'm joined by Ashley Milus, a trauma-informed somatic grief and life transition coach who helps individuals navigate the emotional and physical toll of loss—whether through death, divorce, chronic illness, or other major life changes. Her practice is deeply informed by her own journey through complex personal grief, including serious health challenges and the loss of loved ones. Ashley supports clients in reconnecting with their bodies, regulating their nervous systems, and gently moving through emotions that feel overwhelming. With compassion and a strong understanding of trauma responses, she creates safe, validating spaces where healing can begin. Through this integrative somatic approach, Ashley helps people rediscover their sense of self and move forward with renewed strength and clarity. She also offers free consultations for those curious about exploring this path.Throughout this episode, Ashley offers meaningful insight into how somatic healing addresses grief not just as an emotional or mental challenge, but as a full-body experience. She explains how our nervous systems instinctively protect us through responses like numbness or shutdown, and how working with these patterns can support deeper, lasting healing. Drawing on her own lived experiences, she illustrates how reconnecting with the body can restore a sense of safety, presence, and vitality. Ashley also shares practical, compassionate ways to support those experiencing grief, especially in the wake of sudden or traumatic loss. Her emphasis on listening, presence, and authentic connection brings depth to the episode—and reminds us that healing begins not with fixing, but with truly being there for one another.Tune in to episode 334 as Ashley Milus shares how her personal journey through illness and loss led her to become a somatic grief coach—helping others heal by reconnecting with their bodies, regulating their nervous systems, and finding safety, presence, and meaning after profound grief.In This Episode, You Will Learn:What is Somatic Healing? (3:12)Why we shut down during grief (5:30)Working with the nervous system (6:33)The power of compassionate presence (9:30)Storytelling as a healing tool (10:32)Supporting someone after sudden or traumatic loss (13:34)A personal story of transformational support (15:51)How to be the right kind of support (19:41)Rethinking condolences: Why “Sorry for your loss” isn't enough (21:46)What to say: Creating comfort through connection (24:03)Connect with Ashley Milus:WebsiteInstagramBook a FREE session with Ashley Milus!Let's Connect:WebsiteFacebookTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together we can change the world if we all practice unconditional love.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most companies give grieving parents just three days to "move on"—but what happens when the real pain begins on day four? We explore the deeper reality of child loss, the healing power of grief retreats, and why workplaces must do better to support employees through unimaginable loss.In today's episode, I'm joined by Kelly McDyre, the President and CEO of the Child Loss Foundation, an organization devoted to supporting parents who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child. With more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience, Kelly has dedicated her career to creating compassionate spaces for healing through retreats, resources, and workplace programs. Her work is deeply personal—sparked by the sudden death of her 12-year-old nephew in 2010, which led her to walk alongside grieving families with empathy and purpose. Kelly previously served as Executive Director at Faith's Lodge, where she helped establish a sanctuary for bereaved parents, and later played a key role in its merger with the Believe Foundation to form the Child Loss Foundation. She also founded Child Loss at Work, an innovative program designed to help employers provide meaningful support to grieving employees.Throughout this episode, Kelly offers heartfelt insights into her journey and the impact of the Child Loss Foundation's work. She shares how the organization came to life through the merging of two powerful missions—Faith's Lodge's retreat-based healing model and the Believe Foundation's practical financial support. Kelly introduces listeners to the foundation's expanding national reach and its goal to create more accessible grief retreats across the country. She also explains how Child Loss at Work is transforming the way employers approach grief in the workplace, advocating for more compassionate policies and better understanding. With warmth and wisdom, Kelly reminds us that while grief never fully fades, it can coexist with joy—and that no parent should ever have to navigate loss alone.Tune in as Kelly McDyre shares how her family's loss inspired her to create healing retreats for bereaved parents and workplace programs that bring empathy, connection, and space for both grief and joy.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Meet Kelly McDyre and the Child Loss Foundation (1:00)The origins: Faith's Lodge and the Believe Foundation Merge (1:45)Kelly's personal connection to child loss (6:00)Retreats as safe spaces for grieving parents (9:50)Expanding the reach of grief retreats (10:30)Grief and joy can coexist (15:00)What not to say to a grieving parent (20:30)Fixing grief support at work: The “3 days off” problem (24:00)Loss at work: A program to transform workplace compassion (25:30)Writing, rituals, and the lifelong nature of grief (31:30)Connect with Kelly McDyre:Website - Child Loss FoundationFacebook - Faith's LodgeInstagram - Faith's LodgeKelly's LinkedInLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you feel mired in all the “stuff” in your life? Find out how to fix that by listening to this podcast!Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever questioned your ability to keep going after life breaks you open, this episode will show you how three simple words can become a lifeline in the darkest moments.In today's episode, I'm joined by Theresa Bruno, a writer, speaker, and grief guide who hosts the Soul Talks podcast—a space dedicated to exploring healing, spirituality, and the resilience that follows profound loss. Once a successful entrepreneur running a regional marketing agency, Theresa's life shifted dramatically after enduring back-to-back tragedies: the collapse of her business and the sudden loss of her husband to suicide. These life-altering experiences led her to embrace storytelling as a path to healing and to create welcoming spaces where others could share their own stories of pain and survival. Her debut book, He's Not Coming Back: Rewriting Life After Loss, blends personal narrative with practical tools designed to help others rebuild. Through her work, Theresa encourages people to reconnect with their inner strength, find spiritual grounding in their own way, and embrace the powerful truth that we are all enough.Throughout this episode, Theresa opens up about her journey through grief with remarkable honesty and depth. She reflects on the early days of isolation and shame, and how leaning into spiritual practices and nature slowly helped her reclaim her sense of self. Theresa shares how small, intentional actions—like opening the curtains each morning or journaling moments of gratitude—became stepping stones toward healing. She highlights the importance of community, vulnerability, and the power of being seen and heard in safe spaces. Her message, centered on the transformative strength of storytelling and the mantra "I am enough," offers comfort and clarity to anyone navigating grief and the process of rewriting their life.Tune in as Theresa Bruno shares how surviving unimaginable loss, embracing spiritual practices, and creating safe spaces for storytelling helped her navigate grief and rediscover a sense of purpose, hope, and self-worth.In This Episode, You Will Learn:From perfectionism to rock bottom (01:25)The birth of Soul Talks and her book (03:40)The power of storytelling and safe spaces (5:25)Spirituality as a lifeline in grief (6:42)Letting go of judgment through community (10:00)Small steps that save you (18:50)Nature as a healer (20:30)Daily practices for joy and gratitude (22:59)Reclaiming dreams and self-worth (24:47)Connect with Theresa Bruno:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeTikTokGet Theresa's bookLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What would you really love to do now? Don't wait! Just do it!Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When grief left them speechless, award-winning authors Julia Park Tracey and Christine Walker turned to fiction—not just to cope, but to give their sons a voice that would live on forever.In today's episode, I'm joined by Julia Park Tracey and Christine Walker—two accomplished creatives who have transformed personal grief into meaningful art. Julia is an award-winning author, journalist, and publisher at Sibylline Press. Her historical novels The Bereaved and Silence are inspired by ancestral stories and deeply shaped by the loss of her stepson. Christine is a visual artist, designer, and writer whose novel Tap Dancing at the Bluebird, drawn from her grandmother's Depression-era diaries, was reimagined through the lens of losing her son, Quinn. Both women use their work to explore themes of loss, healing, and transformation.Throughout this episode, Julia and Christine share how their sons' deaths profoundly influenced their creative processes. Julia describes how grief deepened the emotional truth of her characters and led her to speak openly about loss, both in life and on the page. Christine talks about infusing her novel's character with Quinn's essence—his “quinescence”—to give him a lasting literary presence, and how painting helped her process pain when words failed. Together, they reflect on the healing power of storytelling and the ways creativity can offer connection, comfort, and a sense of continuity through grief.Tune in to episode 328 as Julia Park Tracey and Christine Walker share how channeling their grief into writing and art helped them honor their sons, process profound loss, and discover a lasting sense of connection, creativity, and healing.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Julia's story: Writing through historical grief and personal loss (1:14)Christine's journey: From garden journals to literary healing (6:12)Giving their sons a literary afterlife (9:40)How grief alters language and social norms (14:17)To tell or not to tell: Sharing a child's death publicly (17:24)Redefining happiness: Can we ever feel joy again? (23:39)Writing fiction as a healing tool for grievers (28:22)When grief silences you: Finding voice through action (31:45)Connect with Julia Park Tracey:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFacebookTikTokGet Julia's books!Connect with Christine Walker:WebsiteInstagramXFacebookGet Christine's books!Let's Connect:Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He looked fine—until he wasn't. Just eleven weeks after sharing his struggles, Charlie was gone. In this powerful episode, Betsy Thibaut Stephenson reveals how depression lied to her son and why telling the hard truth is key to healing.In today's episode, I'm joined by Betsy Thibaut Stephenson, a writer, communications professional, and mother based in Alexandria, Virginia. After the unexpected death of her 21-year-old son, Charlie, by suicide, Betsy began writing as a way to process her grief, eventually shaping her reflections into the poignant and powerful book Blackbird. With decades of experience helping others find their voice, she now uses her own to break the silence around suicide, mental health, and the complexities of loss. Her work is grounded in compassion, clarity, and the belief that honesty is essential to healing—offering hope to anyone navigating the aftermath of profound sorrow.Throughout this episode, Betsy brought those same qualities—honesty, courage, and clarity—to the forefront as she reflected on her family's decision to be fully transparent about Charlie's death. She shared how that openness not only helped their loved ones support them more effectively, but also created space for deeper community understanding. We explored the deceptive nature of depression, the emotional and physical toll of grief, and how writing became a lifeline in her healing journey. Betsy also discussed the structure and purpose behind Blackbird—a collection of short, digestible entries designed to meet grieving readers where they are. Her reflections serve as a powerful reminder that telling our stories, even when painful, can become a vital source of strength and connection.Tune in to episode 326 as Betsy Thibaut Stephenson shares how embracing openness, writing through sorrow, and honoring her son Charlie's life helped her navigate the depths of grief and find a path toward healing and connection.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Choosing radical openness after suicide (01:33)Making sense of an incomprehensible loss (06:31)“The brain lies to you” - Understanding depression (9:11)Letting go of guilt while living with it (12:51)Why and how she wrote Blackbird (15:20)Coping with loss and moving forward (17:48)Grief and the fog of memory (21:01)The book she needed but couldn't find (23:00)The hard things need to be said (31:30)Connect with Betsy Thibaut Stephenson:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFacebookGet Betsy's book!Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Notice when you start being negative and change your thoughts and words to something positive.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why even well-meaning words can deepen someone's pain—and what to say instead when silence feels safer than saying the wrong thing.In today's episode, I'm joined by Sally McQuillen, a psychotherapist in private practice specializing in addiction, trauma, and grief. Based on the North Shore of Chicago, she brings a deeply personal lens to her work shaped by the loss of her 21-year-old son, Christopher. Her debut memoir, Reaching for Beautiful, chronicles that journey—a story of healing, resilience, and the enduring bond between mother and child. A former English and dance major, Sally now channels her lifelong love of writing into storytelling that offers comfort and connection to others navigating profound loss.Throughout this episode, Sally reflects on the emotional landscape that shaped Reaching for Beautiful, sharing how private journaling gradually evolved into a powerful memoir. She speaks candidly about her grief, the different ways she and her husband supported each other, and the spiritual signs that continue to remind her of her son's presence. With compassion and clarity, Sally offers insights into how even small gestures of acknowledgment can make a profound difference for someone in mourning. Her perspective invites us to approach grief not with fear, but with openness, gentleness, and the understanding that love never truly disappears.Tune in to episode 324 s Sally McQuillen shares how writing through heartbreak, embracing spiritual connection, and honoring her son's memory helped transform unimaginable loss into a journey of healing and love.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Sally's journey through grief (1:02)Writing through grief: From pain to memoir (2:15)Letters to the departed and spiritual dialogues (6:14)Grieving as a couple—side by side, not the same (7:51)When grief becomes isolating (12:25)What to say (and not say) to the grieving (14:20)Finding joy in memories and shared stories (17:00)Recognizing signs from loved ones and choosing to heal (23:20)Rising above grief (28:43)Connect with Sally McQuillen:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFacebookGet Sally's book!Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Write positive memories and dreams into your journal so you can always refer to them whenever you would like.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the key to finally freeing yourself from decades-old pain is hidden in memories you've long buried—and unpacking just one forgotten moment could change the course of your life forever?In today's episode, I'm joined by Ann Mracek, an accomplished author, musician, storyteller, and educator with a passion for exploring emotional healing through creative expression. Her memoir, Unpacking the Attic, chronicles her transformative journey as she confronts and heals from childhood traumas uncovered while clearing out her parents' home. Ann's experiences highlight the profound healing that can come from revisiting and reframing difficult memories.Throughout this episode, Ann shares her personal journey in greater depth, discussing how unpacking her parents' home served as a powerful metaphor for confronting and resolving deep emotional wounds. She vividly recounts revisiting her challenging relationship with her grandfather, illustrating how symbolic forgiveness and reframing past experiences from an adult perspective allowed her to find profound healing. Ann emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, compassion, and proactive reconciliation, offering listeners practical insights and inspiring examples to embark on their own paths toward emotional healing.Tune in to episode 322 of Grief and Happiness as Ann Mracek shares how confronting hidden childhood memories and reframing past traumas can transform grief into profound emotional healing.In This Episode, You Will Learn:The challenge of clearing out a lifetime of memories (1:01)Healing through retrospection (3:53)Finding forgiveness through symbolic acts (07:35)The importance of repairing relationships before it's too late (16:48)Transforming trauma through writing and reflection (21:42)Connect with Ann Mracek:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeXGet Ann's books!Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We can change the world by focusing on Peace and Love.Let's Connect:You can join the Grief and Happiness Alliance which meets weekly on Sundays by clicking hereYou can order the International Best Selling The Grief and Happiness Guide by clicking here.You can order Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief by clicking here at Amazon:You can listen to my podcast, Grief and Happiness, by clicking hereRequest your Awaken Your Happiness Journaling Guide hereSee acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Victoria Rader, a transformational speaker, spiritual entrepreneur, and the founder of YU2SHINE, a platform dedicated to personal and business growth through quantum and practical coaching. Born in Ukraine under Soviet rule, Victoria developed an unshakable inner resilience that fueled her journey to success in the United States. Through her innovative Empower-mE app and her books, she provides tools to help people navigate grief, activate abundance, and align with their purpose. A passionate advocate for love and energy healing, Victoria's work integrates science, spirituality, and personal transformation to help individuals unlock their full potential.Throughout this episode, Victoria shares her profound insights on grief, healing, and inner freedom. She reflects on her early life in the Soviet Union, her experiences with loss, and the deep sense of joy she cultivated despite external hardships. She explains how grief extends beyond the loss of a loved one, encompassing lost dreams and futures that never materialized. Drawing from her work in quantum personal development, she has identified 99 aspects of grief and developed tools to help individuals recognize and process them. Victoria also explores the transformative role of love in healing and energy shifts, introducing Ho'oponopono as a technique for personal and collective restoration—one she even applies toward figures like Vladimir Putin in a pursuit of global change.Tune in to episode 320 as Victoria Rader explores the profound connection between grief, healing, and inner freedom—revealing how quantum energy, self-love, and conscious awareness can help process loss, cultivate joy, and create a life of true abundance.In This Episode, You Will Learn:Victoria Rader's journey and background (1:04)Finding inner freedom and joy (2:43)How grief blocks personal growth (6:10)The Empower-mE app and the 99 aspects of grief (9:28)The surprising link between breath, grief, and joy (11:29)Why receiving love is more important than giving (14:54)Ho'oponopono and energy healing on a global scale (27:05)The world's quantum leap and why it feels chaotic (30:37)Final thoughts and call to action (32:34)Connect with Victoria Rader:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInXGet Victoria's books!Victoria's gift offerLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.