As I Live and Grieve

Kathy Gleason, Stephanie Kendrick - CoHosts

It’s time for grief to come out of the basement, or wherever we have stuffed it to avoid talking about it. When you suffer a loss you need support, comfort, and a safe place to heal. What you are experiencing is painful but normal, unique but similar, surreal but very, very real. As grief advocates we understand and want to provide support, knowledge and comfort as you continue to live and grieve. Host, Kathy Gleason; Producer, Stephanie Kendrick. www.asiliveandgrieve.com

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Episodes

Grieving the Person You Used to Be
4d ago
Grieving the Person You Used to Be
As we grieve, we frequently encounter the shadow of who we used to be. Grief coach and author, Shelby Forsythia, joins me to share her deeply personal narrative of navigating the aftermath of her mother's death, revealing these intricate layers. Our conversation invites listeners to sit with the poignant truth that our old lives are forever altered, and our grieving reflects this transformation.While discussing the  value of rituals, Shelby and I offer up ways to honor the past selves we've bid farewell, embracing our healing. We invite you to consider how personalized acts of remembrance can carve a path toward acceptance, making space for who we are becoming.We hope to guide you through the tender process of redefining yourself in the wake of loss. Our episode is an open invitation to find solace in shared experiences, and a gentle reminder that self-care is paramount as you walk the delicate path of grief.Contact:www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.comFacebook:  As I Live and GrieveInstagram:  @asiliveandgrieveYouTube:  asiliveandgrieveTikTok: @asiliveandgrieveTo Reach Shelby:Shelby Forsythia (she/her)Grief guide, author, and podcast hostWebsite | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTokFeatured in O Mag, Huffington Post, and Modern LossReady to grow through grief? Check out these free resources:Grow Through Grief Workshop—MOST POPULAR! Three easy, proven tools that help you stop feeling stuck and start moving forward.Dear Grief Guide: My weekly podcast where I answer anonymous letters from grievers with compassionate advice and gentle reframes.Credits: Music by Kevin MacLeod Support the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Evan's Legacy
Apr 16 2024
Evan's Legacy
As we navigate the delicate terrain of grief, Susie Taylor joins us to share her powerful story of love, loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Through the memory of her son Evan, who bravely faced significant medical challenges since birth, we uncover the raw emotions and the unspoken bonds that form in the wake of such an incomparable loss. Susie's candid recollections shine a light on the joy and laughter her son brought into their lives, while also exploring the significance of honoring our loved ones and the personal journeys that follow our deepest sorrows.Embracing the legacy left by those we've cherished is a profound testament to their impact on our lives and the world. In our conversation, we delve into how Evan's life led to remarkable advancements in neonatal care, illustrating the profound influence one individual's journey can have on medical progress. Susie's involvement with the County Board of Developmental Disabilities and her dedication to honoring the memory of consumers who have passed resonates deeply, offering solace to those navigating the intricate paths of healing. Together, we reflect on the uniqueness of grief and love, acknowledging that each story is as distinct as the memories we hold dear.Contact:www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.comFacebook:  As I Live and GrieveInstagram:  @asiliveandgrieveYouTube: asiliveandgrieveTo Reach Susie:Credits: Music by Kevin MacLeod Support the showSupport the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Pancakes for Roger
Feb 20 2024
Pancakes for Roger
When grief tugs at our hearts, finding solace can often light the way through the darkness. Join me as I chat with Susan Combs, who, in honoring her father—a distinguished major general and civilian judge— transformed her sorrow into a legacy of hope. In our compelling discussion, Susan shares how her father's battle with Agent Orange-related throat cancer brought unique challenges, but also how these experiences shaped her endeavors with "Pancakes for Roger," a book and also a non-profit infused with her father's ethos of service and mentorship.As we peel back the layers of grief, we are presented deep look into the nature of grief. We discuss the contrast between anticipatory mourning and the maelstrom of emotions that follow an unexpected loss. Our conversation delves into the importance of embracing the full spectrum of our loved ones' lives and how a personal tribute can be a potent tool in the healing journey. Susan and I reflect on the steps we took to mend after our losses, and how these actions provided much-needed emotional closure.Contact:www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.com Facebook:  As I Live and Grieve Instagram:  @asiliveandgrieve To Reach Susan:Website: www.pancakesforroger.com Email:  info@combsandco.comCredits: Music by Kevin MacLeod Support the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Grief in the Workplace
Feb 6 2024
Grief in the Workplace
When the sharp edges of loss cut through the fabric of everyday life, how does one tread the delicate path of returning to work? Claire Schwartz, a grief and trauma healing strategist with Miriamswell Healing, joins us to share her profound insights on this very challenge. In our heartfelt conversation, we unravel the intricacies of grief in the workplace, scrutinizing the current bereavement policies that often fail to provide the necessary support for those in mourning. Claire's expertise, paired with her personal narrative of loss, casts a light on the silent struggles that many face while attempting to balance their professional responsibilities amidst profound personal sorrow.Grief doesn't clock out when we swipe our badges at the office door; it lingers, often impacting our performance in ways we and our employers might not anticipate. This episode peels back the layers of emotional and physical toll that grief exacts on individuals, questioning the rationality of standard bereavement practices. We probe the deeper implications of workplace culture, the emotional intelligence of leadership, and how businesses might risk their greatest assets—their people—by not affording them the time and space to heal. Claire and I tackle the often-neglected topics, such as the stigmatized loss of a miscarriage and the convoluted intricacies of the Family Medical Leave Act, prompting a much-needed dialogue on how companies can better value their employees during life’s most trying times.Wrapping up with a beacon of hope, we explore the transformative power of healing from grief and trauma. As I share my own experiences in guiding clients through their darkest hours, we discuss the pivotal role of grief coaching in fostering trust and productivity within the workplace. The "Fearless Grieving to Fearless Living" program emerges as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, underscoring the potential for growth even in the depths of despair. We invite you to join this community of support, as we collectively navigate the complex journey of grief, bearing witness to its transformative potential in both our personal and professional lives.Support the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Celebration of Sisters
Jan 23 2024
Celebration of Sisters
When the unimaginable happens, and we lose those dearest to us, the journey through grief can be a solitary and complex path. It's a raw and vulnerable experience that Judy Lipson knows all too well, having lost both her sisters, Margie and Jane. She joins us today to share her poignant story of how suppressed sorrow can emerge after many years, and the profound strength she discovered in finally embracing her grief. Through her compelling narrative, Judy opens up about her transformative journey — from the depths of despair to finding solace and empowerment in creating the Celebration of Sisters ice skating fundraiser and authoring a book that delves into the heart of her grieving process.As we traverse the terrain of sorrow, the episode sheds light on the often overlooked and unique agony of sibling loss. Judy's testament to the power of coping strategies — like orchestrating a heartfelt memorial event and pouring emotions into writing — offers insight into the healing that can be found in honoring loved ones. We also discuss the significance of self-care, the necessity of allowing oneself to grieve in individual ways, and the solace that can be found in shared experiences through support groups or therapy. Our conversation serves as an open invitation to all who are navigating the murky waters of loss, reminding us that we are not alone, offering comfort, and underscoring the importance of community and mutual support in times of profound sadness.Contact: www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.com Facebook:  As I Live and Grieve Instagram:  @asiliveandgrieve To Reach Judy:Website:  https://www.judylipson.orgInstagram: @celebofsistersFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/JudyLipsonAuthorLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/judylipson/Credits: Music by Kevin MacLeodSupport the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Whispers of the Departed-Exploring Spirit Communication, with Melissa Peil
Jan 16 2024
Whispers of the Departed-Exploring Spirit Communication, with Melissa Peil
When the veil between our world and the next seems impenetrable, Melissa Peel, a psychic, medium, and healer, comes forth to illuminate the path. In our heartfelt discussion, Melissa distinguishes between the nuanced realms of mediumship and psychic insights, offering a beacon to those grappling with the enigmatic journey of the soul. My own transformative encounter with her reading opened doors to personal revelations, and together, we traverse the landscape of spiritual callings and the astonishing shifts that embrace us when we align with our deepest yearnings.Venture with us into the spectral divide as we clarify the often-confused energies of ghosts and spirits. Melissa provides an understanding of why some souls find themselves anchored to our world, while others transcend with ease. I share a poignant narrative of my grandfather's departure, inviting listeners to contemplate the signs and communications they may have encountered from those who've passed. This episode is a sanctuary for anyone seeking solace and understanding amid the vast spectrum of beliefs surrounding spirit communication.As we navigate the healing realms, we confront the shadows of generational trauma and the powerful release that can occur when these deep-seated wounds are addressed. The conversation turns to the practicalities of handling psychic abilities and the poignant moments when messages from the beyond provide unexpected comfort to the living. With Melissa Peel's profound insights, we beckon you to approach the spiritual with an open heart and mind, nurturing a sense of curiosity and wonder about the unseen currents that shape our existence.Contact:www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.com Facebook:  As I Live and Grieve Instagram:  @asiliveandgrieve To Reach Melissa:Website:  https://mysticalawakenings.com Credits: Music by Kevin MacLeod https://mysticalawakenings.com Support the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
The Complex Tapestry of Immigrant Grief with Vera Snow
Jan 2 2024
The Complex Tapestry of Immigrant Grief with Vera Snow
Discover the poignant world of immigration grief with Vera Snow, a spiritual director whose life was irrevocably shaped by her parents' flight from Czechoslovakia. Vera's intimate understanding of the hardships faced by refugees becomes the centerpiece of our latest episode, where the past's urgent fight for survival meets the present's journey towards healing. Her unique perspective as a child of refugees offers a profound exploration into the layered emotions that accompany cultural displacement and the forging of new identities in unfamiliar lands.Woven through our conversation are the delicate threads of cultural identity, traditions, and the balancing act between assimilation and heritage preservation. I reflect alongside Vera on the personal tug-of-war of growing up with Czech customs in the embrace of America, capturing the nuanced experience many immigrants and their descendants navigate. We delve into the sense of loss felt during cultural adaptation, the building of communities that become surrogate families, and the often unspoken emotional toll that shapes the immigrant narrative.Closing with a heartfelt discussion on the universal themes of grief and storytelling, our episode emphasizes the transformative power of shared experiences. We examine how narratives from veterans to public figures like Padma Lakshmi serve as vessels for understanding and empathy. Join us for a journey through the shadows of grief to the unexpected joys that can be found in embracing the full spectrum of our histories and selves.Contact:www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.com Facebook:  As I Live and Grieve Instagram:  @asiliveandgrieve To Reach Vera: Website:  www.griefenthusiast.com Publications written by Vera: ● When You are Coping with Infertility ● Eight Life Lessons I Learned from the Ricochet Heart of a Narcissist Credits: Music by Kevin MacLeod Support the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Grief in a Blended Family, with Faith Sage
Dec 26 2023
Grief in a Blended Family, with Faith Sage
Have you ever faced a trial so profound that it reshaped your entire existence? Faith Sage joins us with a heart-wrenching yet inspiring story of love, loss, and the blended family dynamic. Her candid sharing on the complexities of step-parenting and the grief-stricken path after losing her stepdaughter in a tragic car accident strikes a chord that resonates with the deepest parts of our humanity. As we navigate the emotional labyrinth of planning a funeral alongside an ex-spouse, Faith uncovers the unexpected silver lining of community support, illustrating the unifying power of shared heartache and the importance of financial preparedness during life's most trying times.Transformative and enlightening, this episode goes beyond the surface of sorrow to reveal the potential for personal growth amidst despair. We hear how a grieving mother found solace in near-death experience stories, knitting a connection to her child beyond the veil of mortality. As Faith recounts the solidarity she received from an unlikely source—her husband's ex-wife—the conversation sheds light on the incredible resilience required to endure not one, but two family tragedies. With practical advice on how to tackle the inertia of grief, the importance of small daily changes, and the necessity of reaching out for support, we're reminded of the continuous journey towards healing and the power of a mindset geared towards recovery. Join us for a profound exploration of the human spirit's capacity to triumph over the darkest hours.Contact: www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.com Facebook:  As I Live and Grieve Instagram:  @asiliveandgrieve To Reach Faith:Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/faith.sageCredits: Music by Kevin MacLeod Support the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Grief After Loss from Overdose, with Glen Lord
Dec 19 2023
Grief After Loss from Overdose, with Glen Lord
Losing a loved one to substance use overdose is nothing short of heart-shattering. That's why we're joined by special guest Glen Lord, who turned his personal tragedy into a support network for others experiencing the same grief. Glen shares his journey with us, shedding light on how the loss of his loved one led him to create a program called "Walking with Grief." Together with his partner, Franklin Cook, they formed Support After a Death by Overdose (SADOD), a unique haven that intersects empathy, understanding, recovery, and hope amidst the pain of loss to substance use.How do we show up for those who are navigating the turbulent waters of grief after losing a loved one to substance use? We discuss this and more, exploring the "River" support model — a compassionate approach that stresses relating, inviting, validating, empowering, and reassuring those grieving. We also touch on how organizations like SADOD and Peer Grief Support Org offer resources and support groups to ease the journey. As we navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 era, the rise of virtual support groups has been a silver lining, offering hope and connection in isolation. So, let's take a step back from statistics and remember that each number represents a human life. Join us as we strive to be present, listen, and remind ourselves that even in the depths of grief — there is always a path to healing.Contact: www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.com Facebook:  As I Live and Grieve Instagram:  @asiliveandgrieve To Reach Glen:Email:  glen@peersupportcommunitypartners.comWebsite:  PEER SUPPORT COMMUNITY PARTNERS - HomeCredits: Music by Kevin MacLeod Support the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
Grandparent Grief, with Bradley Vinson
Dec 12 2023
Grandparent Grief, with Bradley Vinson
Losing a loved one is a profound and life-altering experience. Navigating the unique challenges of grandparent grief is our esteemed guest, Bradley Vinson. He opens up about the complexities faced by grandparents grieving the loss of a grandchild and having to support their own child in their grief simultaneously. Bradley's candid conversation sheds light on the often-overlooked role of grandparents in today's family dynamic, emphasizing the need for specialized support during such challenging times.Our journey through the labyrinth of grief doesn't stop there. Bradley bravely shares his personal story of losing a granddaughter, the trials of raising grandsons amidst his own grief, and his struggle to reconcile with traditional male norms during the grieving process. His insights reveal the differences in how genders deal with grief and the significance of breaking these norms for healing. Providing resources and support for those dealing with loss, Bradley's heartrending yet enlightening narrative promises to touch your heart and inspire your journey through grief. Don't miss out on this emotional roller-coaster that promises wisdom, compassion, and understanding in the very face of loss.Contact:www.asiliveandgrieve.cominfo@asiliveandgrieve.com Facebook:  As I Live and Grieve Instagram:  @asiliveandgrieve To Reach Bradley Vinson:Website:  www.bradleyvinson.com/contactor via Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn Credits: Music by Kevin MacLeod Support the showCopyright 2020, by As I Live and GrieveThe views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.