Grief & Happiness

What are you holding on to? What can you let go?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 been told to “stay strong” after loss, episode 386 will change how you see strength. Life coach Shruti Trivedi shares her journey through the loss of three babies and the 11 years she spent suppressing her pain. Through therapy and her “three A's”—acknowledge, accept, and address—she discovered that true healing begins when you stop hiding your grief. Her story is a raw reminder that facing pain is often the first step toward peace.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(00:53) Shruti's introduction and the losses that changed her life(02:04) The 11-year silence before seeking therapy—and how it transformed her healing(05:01) Why pregnancy loss is so misunderstood and often dismissed(08:35) Teaching children emotional honesty through shared grief(10:37) How Shruti helped her daughters honor their twin brothers each year(14:43) What to say—and what not to say—to someone grieving a loss(18:41) How fathers grieve differently and why their pain is often invisible(21:05) The danger of masking pain and the stigma around showing emotion(25:47) The “mental tumor” effect of unspoken grief and how to cleanse it(30:00) Finding peace through naming, remembering, and continuing bonds with lost babiesShruti Trivedi is a Certified Life Coach, PMP®, and founder of Tulsi Heals Life Coaching, where she helps women and parents navigate grief and emotional healing with empathy and structure. After spending over 13 years in IT consulting and leadership, her own experience of losing three babies—one early miscarriage and identical twin boys at 23 weeks—transformed her life's direction. That profound loss inspired her to become an advocate for mental health awareness, emotional resilience, and self-compassion, using both her professional background and personal story to guide others through recovery.In this conversation, Shruti shares how she spent 11 years suppressing her grief before finally seeking therapy, a decision that became the foundation of her healing. She introduces her “three A's” approach—acknowledge, accept, and address—as a framework for moving through pain rather than escaping it. With honesty and warmth, she discusses letting go of guilt, showing vulnerability to her children, and redefining strength as the ability to feel deeply. Her story reminds listeners that healing begins with allowing space for emotion—and that offering presence and compassion often means more than finding the perfect words.Connect with Shruti Trivedi:LinkedInSubstackInstagramYouTubeTikTokLet's Connect: WebsiteInstagramThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to turn your waiting time into something enjoyable and 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.

If you've ever felt trapped in grief and longed for a way to truly move forward, episode 384 is for you. Grief guide and author Marie Crews shares how losing her 22-year-old son to suicide inspired The Nautilus Way—a four-step journaling process that transforms pain into empowerment. With raw honesty and compassion, she reveals how writing can quiet guilt, rewire your thoughts, and reconnect you to life. Her story proves that healing begins the moment you meet yourself on the page.In This Episode, You Will Learn:(01:01) Marie's path from mindset coach to grief and empowerment guide(02:40) Losing her 22-year-old son and transforming unimaginable pain into purpose(04:15) Why choosing how to live with loss is an act of radical self-responsibility(06:27) The power of journaling—and how it became her lifeline through grief(07:45) The creation of The Nautilus Way: Reveal, Review, Rewrite, and Rewire(10:59) How journaling opens communication with lost loved ones(11:54) Turning journaling into meditation and “whispering yourself home”(14:20) Breaking perfectionism and resistance in writing for healing(16:18) Gratitude, self-love, and the small daily practices that rewire the mind(20:00) How journaling becomes a love letter to yourself—and a path to peace(23:55) Why the answers aren't “out there,” but waiting inside you all along(24:45) How to access The Nautilus Way and begin your own healing journeyMarie Crews is an empowerment and grief guide, author, and creator of The Nautilus Way, a four-step journaling process that helps women heal by reconnecting with themselves and rewriting limiting beliefs. After losing her 22-year-old son to suicide in 2017, she transformed her grief into purpose, developing a compassionate method to help others move through loss, anxiety, and self-judgment. Through her retreats in Navarre, Florida, and online workshops, she guides women toward self-compassion, empowerment, and emotional freedom using journaling as a tool for deep healing.In this episode, Marie shares how journaling became her lifeline after her son's death and how it evolved into The Nautilus Way—a process of “Reveal, Review, Rewrite, and Rewire.” She explains how meeting yourself on the page can quiet the inner critic, bring clarity, and reframe grief into growth. Marie and Emily discuss how consistent, conscious journaling can transform suffering into self-acceptance and joy, empowering women to take radical responsibility for their thoughts and emotions while finding peace within their ongoing grief.Connect with Marie Crews:WebsiteFacebookBook: Even When... She RoseLet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInFacebookTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You can heal your broken heart by practicing good 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 ever felt stuck in the same story of loss, episode 380 will move you. Author Michael Reed shares how, for nine years after losing his wife and daughters in the Gatlinburg wildfire, every morning felt like opening a newspaper with the same tragic headline. In this raw, hopeful conversation, he reveals how he finally rewrote that headline—turning pain into purpose through The Million Stages of Grief and showing that while we never move on, we can move forward.In This Episode, You Will Learn: (00:59) The wildfire that changed Michael Reed's life forever(02:45) Why he rejected the “five stages of grief” and wrote The Million Stages of Grief(04:43) How shared pain can connect rather than divide us(06:07) Naming “the darkness” and learning to step out of it(07:30) The difference between moving on and moving forward(09:14) Living with the same headline of loss every day for nine years(10:40) Finding signs of love in butterflies, ladybugs, and owls(13:37) Turning grief into purpose and keeping loved ones' memories alive(16:27) Facing anger, survivor's guilt, and learning to take one baby step at a time(22:44) Grounding, creativity, and nature as pathways to healing(26:26) Why vulnerability is the key to helping others healMichael Reed is an author, speaker, and grief advocate from East Tennessee whose life was forever changed by the 2016 Gatlinburg wildfire that claimed his wife and two daughters. Transforming unimaginable loss into purpose, he now helps others navigate grief with honesty and compassion. Through his book The Million Stages of Grief and his platform, he challenges the idea of five linear stages of grief, showing instead that healing is a complex, deeply personal journey. Currently pursuing a degree in Behavioral Science, Reed uses his story to remind others that while we never move on from grief, we can always move forward with love.In this episode, Reed brings raw authenticity and hope to the conversation, sharing how he learned to live beyond the darkness of his loss. He describes grief as both chaotic and connective—a shared human experience that, when voiced, helps others heal too. From naming his sadness to finding comfort in small signs from his late family, he illustrates that our loved ones never truly leave us. Through grounding, creativity, and compassion, Reed shows listeners how to transform pain into purpose, connection, and even gratitude.Connect with Michael Reed:WebsiteInstagramTikTokBook: Michael Reed - The Million Stages of GriefLet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now it the time to say whatever your need to say to your loved ones. Don't wait!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 think end-of-life planning is dark or depressing, episode 380 will change your mind. Author and celebration coach Sherry Richert Belul shows how preparing for death can actually bring peace, clarity, and deeper joy to life. Through her book The Love List of a Lifetime, she turns planning into an act of gratitude—capturing memories and meaning before it's too late. Her message: facing death is one of the most life-affirming things you can do.In This Episode, You Will Learn: (01:03) Grief and celebration as two sides of one coin(02:45) Turning end-of-life planning into a love story(04:32) Why facing death is a gift to yourself(08:05) The real reason it's never too soon to plan(11:06) Preserving family stories before they vanish(14:12) Finding joy in letting go of “stuff”(16:35) The clarity that comes from writing it down(22:06) Sorting memories with the people you love(26:27) Keeping spirits alive through storytelling(28:01) How planning for death makes life richerIn today's episode, I'm joined by Sherry Richert Belul — author, creative coach, and founder of Simply Celebrate, a movement that helps people bring gratitude and joy into everyday life, even amid grief and loss. Through her Love List practice and her new book, The Love List of a Lifetime, Sherry invites others to turn life's hardest moments into opportunities for love and reflection. Known for her warmth, humor, and honesty, she shows that celebration and sorrow are intertwined—and that choosing joy is a daily act of courage.In this conversation, Sherry shares her compassionate, life-affirming approach to end-of-life planning. She reframes preparation for death as an expression of love—both for ourselves and those we leave behind. Drawing on her own experiences with depression and loss, she reminds listeners that planning ahead reduces chaos and allows more space for genuine grieving. Beyond the legal details, Sherry encourages people to record stories, memories, and “love lists” so that what remains is meaning, not confusion. Her talk with Emily transforms a topic often avoided into a heartfelt reminder that reflecting on death can deepen how we live.Connect with Sherry Richert Belul:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTikTokYouTubeGet Sherry's books!Let's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInFacebookThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are some miracles you experience every day?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 here See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever been told to “get over it,” episode 378 will change how you see healing. Author and former lawyer Michelle Lerner shares how grief doesn't end—it transforms—and how the body carries what words can't. After a life-altering illness led her to write Ring, she explores complicated grief, isolation, and how true recovery begins not by moving on, but by learning to live with what remains.In This Episode, You Will Learn: (00:59) From courtroom to creative healing(02:07) How Ring turned pain into purpose(02:37) A parent's journey through complicated grief(04:50) When illness and isolation reshape grief(08:13) The cold landscape of loss(10:17) The silence no one talks about(11:30) How grief lives inside the body(14:31) Why “getting over it” is a myth(16:06) Rebuilding life with purpose(18:02) What Jewish mourning gets right(22:57) Could “grief doulas” change how we heal?In today's episode, I'm joined by Michelle Lerner, a writer and former public interest lawyer from New Jersey. After developing a severe case of neurological Lyme disease that ended her legal career, Michelle turned to writing as a way to navigate illness and loss. Her debut novel, Ring, explores complicated grief, isolation, and the power of human connection. She's also the author of a poetry chapbook and has a memoir forthcoming—each reflecting her deep interest in how the body, mind, and compassion intertwine in healing.Drawing from her own experiences with illness and profound grief, Michelle shares how writing became both her refuge and mirror. Through the story of a parent mourning their adult child, she examines the loneliness and meaning-seeking that accompany loss. She challenges the cultural expectation to “move on,” instead framing grief as something to live with, not overcome. Michelle also explores how grief lodges in the body and how somatic awareness and community can aid recovery. Inspired by her Jewish mourning traditions and modern therapeutic ideas, she even imagines “grief doulas” to guide others through sorrow—a concept as empathetic as it is transformative.Connect with Michelle Lerner:WebsiteFacebookInstagramBook: Ring: A NovelLet'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.

What memories can you focus on to bring you the inspiration and comfort you are seeking?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 grief could become a force for healing, episode 376 is for you. Author Jonathan Foster shares how the devastating loss of his daughter led him to co-found a nonprofit in Haiti and to write his powerful book Indigo: The Color of Grief. From building schools in remote villages to using writing to “tame the wildness” of loss, Jonathan shows how sorrow can transform into service, meaning, and even hope.In This Episode, You Will Learn: (01:02) Jonathan's background as a pastor, writer, and nonprofit leader(01:52) How the loss of his daughter inspired a nonprofit in Haiti(03:55) Why helping others makes you a “wounded healer”(05:47) Writing as a way to “tame the wildness” of grief(07:57) Creating white space for readers to process their own loss(09:40) The power of limits in art and writing—like haiku(11:45) Jonathan's advice on writing as a tool for grieving(13:23) Rebuilding the language of love after loss(15:20) Why grief fuels creativity and eliminates writer's block(17:02) Jonathan's encouragement: rest, keep going, and don't give up todayIn today's episode, I'm joined by Jonathan J. Foster, an author, speaker, and former pastor whose work explores the intersections of grief, love, and theology. After the loss of his daughter in 2015, Jonathan co-founded a nonprofit in Haiti that provides education and healthcare to underserved communities. His latest book, Indigo: The Color of Grief, distills nearly a decade of reflection into a poignant meditation on loss and resilience. Through his writing, speaking, and nonprofit leadership, Jonathan helps others find language and meaning in the midst of sorrow.Throughout this episode, Jonathan shows how his personal grief reshapes his life's direction. What begins as his daughter's plan to work in Haiti grows into a nonprofit that now offers schools and healthcare in some of the most remote parts of the country, transforming tragedy into tangible hope for others. He reflects on the role of writing in metabolizing grief, describing it as a way to “tame the wildness” of loss and create white space for meaning-making. He emphasizes how language itself must sometimes be rebuilt after loss—rehabilitating old words and inventing new ones to hold the weight of sorrow and love. Jonathan's perspective as a “wounded healer” highlights the paradox of grief: even in brokenness, there is profound potential to serve, connect, and help others heal.Connect with Jonathan J. Foster:WebsitePodcastInstagramSubstackMediumGet Jonathan's booksLet's Connect: WebsiteInstagramTwitterThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here is the key to activating your feel good hormones!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 facing fear head-on could change your life, episode 374 is for you. Author Diane Hartman shares how solo trips through Ireland's backroads—complete with wrong turns, roundabouts gone wrong, and deep solitude—help her confront decades of buried grief. Through journaling and courage, she turns loss into resilience and shows how getting lost can sometimes be the exact path to finding yourself.In This Episode, You Will Learn: (01:00) Diane's path from librarian to writer and her call to Ireland(03:46) How her first solo trip tested her courage behind the wheel(07:59) The lifelong impact of losing her father to suicide at age ten(12:56) Supporting grieving children as a school librarian(14:15) Choosing to transform trauma into empathy and purpose(16:23) The role of self-talk, compassion, and counseling in her healing(21:14) How daily journaling shaped her memoir(22:46) A teacher grant, writer's retreat, and the push to publish(25:24) Writing for travelers, grievers, and anyone seeking resilience(26:53) Where to find Getting Lost on My Way and follow Diane's journeyIn today's episode, I'm joined by Diane Hartman, an author and retired school librarian from Indiana. Her memoir, Getting Lost on My Way: Self-Discovery on Ireland's Backroads, draws from her solo journeys through Ireland after the early loss of her father to suicide and the end of a long marriage. Through travel and journaling, she discovers resilience, courage, and healing, transforming her grief into a story of self-discovery and gratitude. Passionate about inspiring others to face fear with courage, Diane shows how even life's deepest losses can become gateways to growth and renewal.Throughout this episode, she shares how traveling alone through Ireland's winding backroads—often lost and confronting challenges like driving on the opposite side of the road—forces her to confront fear, grief, and self-doubt. By embracing the discomfort of solitude, she learns the power of self-talk, compassion, and courage, uncovering lessons that shape both her memoir and her life. Her story is a reminder that solo journeys can spark profound healing, self-trust, and empathy, offering hope to anyone navigating grief or searching for a deeper sense of self.Connect with Diane Hartman:WebsiteSubstackInstagramFacebookBook: Getting Lost on My WayLet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterThe Grief and Happiness Alliance Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every single moment is valuable. Experiencing each of those moments with love and joy rather that stress and anguish is a gift that you can give yourself every day, every moment.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 trapped in a relationship that was breaking you, episode 372 is for you. Author and healing guide Sarah May shares how she left an abusive marriage that nearly cost her life—and how yoga, therapy, plant medicine, and writing helped her rebuild. With raw honesty, she shows how choosing yourself can open the door to freedom, resilience, and lasting love.In This Episode, You Will Learn: (01:05) From heartbreak to homecoming: Sarah's story and memoir(03:32) Marrying young, betrayal, and the devastating impact of divorce(06:50) Coping with infidelity, trauma, and a near-fatal helicopter crash(10:45) Leaving everything behind and starting a cross-country road trip(13:13) Why shifting from victimhood to responsibility changed everything(17:00) How love and fear kept her stuck—and the courage to walk away(19:13) The family patterns that shaped her relationships (and how she broke them)(23:20) The healing power of yoga, therapy, journaling, and plant medicine(30:27) Why self-love is the foundation of safe, lasting relationshipsIn today's episode, I'm joined by Sarah May, an author, healing guide, and founder of She Journeys. Her memoir, She Journeys: A Memoir of Heartbreak and Homecoming, traces her experience of an abusive marriage, divorce, and the long process of reclaiming her voice. Drawing on this journey and years of spiritual and therapeutic work, she now supports women one-on-one through intuitive guidance, Reiki, meditation, and somatic practices. Passionate about turning grief into growth, Sarah lives in a camper van with her husband, embracing a life of freedom, healing, and love.Throughout this episode, Sarah shares how leaving her marriage felt like a death, plunging her into depression before she slowly rebuilt her life on a cross-country road trip. Practices like yoga, meditation, therapy, breathwork, plant medicine, and journaling became vital in her healing and later shaped her work as a guide. She emphasizes the power of self-love, responsibility, and moving beyond victimhood, showing how profound loss can ultimately lead to resilience, gratitude, and a deeply fulfilling new chapter.Connect with Sarah May:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeBook: Sarah May - She JourneysLet's Connect: WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Great self-care includes knowing when and how to take a break. Here are the directions!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 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.