Eight years have passed since the world lost Prince, an unparalleled musical force and one of America's most revered artists. During his life, the creative genius sold over 100 million records, ranking him among the best-selling musical artists ever. However, despite his worldwide fame, the circumstances surrounding his sudden death from fentanyl poisoning remain shrouded in mystery, with no one held accountable for the tragedy.In an eye-opening interview, Prince's cousin, Chazz Smith, joins Grieving Out Loud host Angela Kennecke to talk about his mission to preserve his loved one's legacy and search for truth in the icon's unexpected passing.Join us as Chazz shares intimate stories about growing up alongside the musical genius, witnessing the challenges of fame, and ultimately grappling with his cousin's passing due to a drug that has now become one of the leading causes of death in America. In this heartfelt conversation, we delve into the personal struggles of an icon and the quest for justice that continues to shape Prince's narrative eight years after his passing.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

From a young age, Sarah Spier seemed destined for success. At 18 years old, she landed a job as a film specialist for the Academy Award-winning movie No Country for Old Men. But her Hollywood dreams quickly turned into a nightmare of heroin addiction. Sarah fell in love with a drug dealer, thinking it was a modern-day Romeo and Juliet tale. No one could pull her away from him or her addiction.However, her mother’s love and determination saved Sarah’s life not once but twice. Join us for a heart-wrenching story as we sit down with Sarah and her mom, Cary, and learn about a mother’s unwavering love and how addiction can affect anyone. Sarah also helps others suffering from substance use disorders through her organization Follow the Poppy. You can find details about her mission here. If you have a story to share, we would love to hear from you. Please email Emily’s Hope founder Angela Kennecke or connect with her on Facebook.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

World-renowned actor Michael Keaton has won several awards, including his first Emmy, for his performance in the Hulu series "Dopesick." The "Batman" actor portrays a hard-working doctor in a small mining town who gets addicted to the pain pills he starts prescribing. Today on Grieving Out Loud, we have an exciting interview with the man who was the real-life inspiration behind that compelling character.Dr. Stephen Loyd overcame abuse, wrestled with addiction, and faced heartbreaking losses, all while trying to maintain his composure as a dedicated medical doctor and professor. Hear his story, why he finally sought help, and how he's now making a difference in the lives of others grappling with substance use disorder.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Ever feel like you've hit a certain age, and your chance to impact the world has passed you by? In today's Grieving Out Loud episode, we'll introduce you to Neil Jackson, who proves that age is just a number. In his early 60s, Neil faced the devastating news of a rare cancer diagnosis and the slim odds of survival after a risky surgery. But his story doesn't end there. Neil found himself confronting a new battle – addiction to the very painkillers meant to ease his suffering. Now, Neil is turning his pain into purpose, not just by sharing his story but by inventing a device aimed at helping others battling substance use disorder. Please tune in to discover how Neil's innovation has the potential to change lives and reshape our nation's devastating drug crisis.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

From FOX News to CNN and ABC, Amy Neville has found herself under the national news spotlight, but it's for a cause she wishes never existed. Amy faced the heart-wrenching loss of her 14-year-old son, who, on the brink of his first year in high school, ingested what he thought was oxycodone, a purchase made through Snapchat. Now, Amy is on a mission, challenging the social media giant, striving to prevent other families from enduring the same devastating loss.Amy says David Kessler's online grief therapy has helped her heal. You can find more information about the program here.Also, please leave a positive review for this episode and share it with friends and family. Your support helps further Emily's Hope's mission to remove the stigma of substance use disorder and get more people the treatment they desperately need. Together, we can make a difference.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

As a seasoned paramedic, Shani Reisnour has seen the painful impact of our nation’s drug crisis up close. But she never expected it to hit her family. Unfortunately, fentanyl doesn’t discriminate.In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Shani opens up about her daughter’s struggle with substance use disorder, shares the lessons she’s learned, and what she wants every parent out there to know… before it’s too late.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

With a record number of Americans using marijuana, cannabis use disorder is also on the rise. Recent research published in The Journal of the American Medical Association finds that more than one-fifth of people who use cannabis struggle with dependency or problematic use.In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Chris Raeford courageously opens up about his journey—dealing with grief, turning to marijuana for comfort, and then confronting his addiction. It's not just about personal struggles; his story is truly inspiring. We hope it motivates you to face your challenges and extend a helping hand to others going through difficult situations.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

As one of the most popular podcasters in the world, Meghan Judge has seen a lot of success throughout her career. She’s also married to a Hollywood actor, but now she speaks out about the trauma she survived starting at a young age. Because of all of her grief, abuse, and abandonment issues, doctors diagnosed Meghan with Complex PTSD.In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Meghan opens up about her past traumas and grief. Hear about the pivotal moments that led her to heal and the invaluable advice she has for others facing life’s challenges. Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

With fentanyl being the number one killer of Americans under 50, it’s more important than ever to have easy access to naloxone, which can reverse opioid overdoses. In fact, naloxone has saved the lives of tens of thousands of people.Today, on a heartfelt episode of Grieving Out Loud, we are privileged to have Justin Phillips join us—a remarkable woman at the forefront of making naloxone more accessible. Her unwavering mission stems from personal tragedy; she endured the devastating loss of her son, Aaron, to a drug overdose.Justin’s advocacy has left an indelible mark, leading to an Indiana law named after her son that increases Narcan accessibility. Beyond this legislative milestone, she founded the non-profit Overdose Lifeline and has received multiple awards for her tireless and life-saving efforts.Justin and Grieving Out Loud host Angela Kennecke have also attended several of the same advocacy events, including being invited to the White House to meet with some of the nation’s top officials tackling the drug crisis. You can read about Angela’s experience at that meeting on her blog. We hope this episode leaves you more informed about our nation’s drug crisis, more inspired to make a difference and brings comfort to those who have lost a child to drugs.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

In an era where streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu bring the grim realities of America’s opioid crisis to the forefront through compelling narratives and star-studded casts, the painful truth hits home for countless families. Among them is Sandra Martinez, whose daughter Qarinna’s journey began with a seemingly benign prescription for opioids to address a health condition. However, this prescription marked the start of a harrowing descent into substance use disorder, echoing the chilling plotlines of horror films.Qarinna’s struggle saw her life unravel, leading to homelessness, exploitation, and abuse. In this compelling episode of Grieving Out Loud, Sandra bravely recounts her daughter’s ordeal, shedding light on the overlooked warning signs and sharing essential insights to help other parents navigate similar challenges.Discover more episodes of Grieving Out Loud, including an exclusive interview with Dan Schneider, the inspiration behind the hit Netflix docuseries “The Pharmacist,” on the Emily’s Hope website. Explore our podcast series here and delve into the backstory of “The Pharmacist” here.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Over the last ten years, Lauri Badura has been on a determined quest to confront the escalating crisis of fentanyl-related deaths. Despite her unwavering dedication, the shadow of this epidemic continues to grow. Lauri's path to advocacy was marked by personal tragedy in 2014 when she lost her son, Archie, to an overdose. This loss became the catalyst for her founding Saving Others For Archie (SOFA), a nonprofit dedicated to combating America's fentanyl crisis—a mission that has taken her to the White House three times to discuss strategies and solutions.But Lauri's efforts don't stop at raising awareness. Understanding the deep well of grief that comes with loss, she also became a certified bereavement companion, aiming to offer solace and support to others in mourning. On today's episode of Grieving Out Loud, Lauri shares her insights into the grieving process, offering practical tips for those looking to find strength and hope in the midst of sorrow. It's a conversation about learning to thrive, even when faced with the most heartbreaking of losses.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Originally released on July 18th, 2022Today's episode is an unexpected revisit dedicated to the memory of one of our past guests. Maryrose Fealey was a TikTok star who gained fame after she shared her relationship with her brother, Ian, who suffers from substance use disorder. Her journey was also shown in an eye-opening documentary that followed Ian and Maryrose for almost a month while he suffered from withdrawals and cravings.Tragically, Grieving Out Loud host Angela Kennecke got a call from a reporter to comment on Maryrose's horrific death. The 27-year-old was found fatally stabbed outside near her home in New Jersey. Today, we're resharing Maryrose's story, and we hope her words sink in and inspire you to love unconditionally, take it slow on the anger, and strive to leave this world a little kinder than you found it.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Buying drugs online is "nearly as convenient as using one's phone to order a pizza or call an Uber," a report by Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser found. Sadly, an increasing number of grieving parents are painfully discovering the truth behind this statement.Chris Didier's 17-year-old son Zach was an Eagle Scout, talented soccer player, and straight-A student who decided to buy what he thought was a Percocet via Snapchat. Unfortunately, that pill was a deadly dose of fentanyl. In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Didier shares his son's tragic journey, reflects on what he wishes he had known, and shares invaluable advice for other parents.Zach's mom has also joined host Angela Kennecke on Grieving Out Loud. You can listen to that episode here.Learn more about the Emily's Hope Substance Use Prevention Curriculum here.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Wine Wednesday, Mom Juice, Liquid Courage--our culture has all sorts of cute catchphrases encouraging people to drink. In fact, excessive drinking seems to be normalized, but unfortunately, it's also one of the leading preventable causes of death in the U.S., with more than 380 Americans dying every day.In this heartfelt episode of Grieving Out Loud, hear from Kylee Hanson, whose journey through substance use disorder began almost from her first sip. Kylee's mom also opens up about the heart-wrenching experience of witnessing her daughter's struggle with addiction. Fortunately, Kylee decided to seek help, yet her challenges persisted. Losing her job and insurance, she found herself without the means to afford treatment.In this episode, you'll discover Kylee's journey—its highs, lows, and eventual triumph over substance use disorder, with a pivotal role played by an Emily's Hope treatment scholarship.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

How do you navigate life's unexpected challenges? Do you crumble under the weight, foster resentment, or embrace each trial as an opportunity for personal growth?In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, we welcome Lynn Gillette, who, at first glance, seemed to have life all figured out. With her children's recent high school graduation, she entered an empty nest, ready to dedicate herself to a career as a school principal. However, life had other plans. A sudden and tragic turn of events saw the passing of both her brother and his ex-wife, leaving Lynn and her husband responsible for their four children.Lynn's journey not only entailed grappling with grief but also making pivotal decisions as the guardian of her four nieces. Rather than succumbing to the pressure, Lynn confronted the challenges head-on, learned from the hardships, and has since emerged as a beacon of strength, now helping others as a life coach.Lynn discusses how you discern your life's mission and purpose and navigate those challenging moments, whether it be the loss of a loved one, a job, or your health. We hope this episode leaves you hopeful you navigate life's unexpected twists.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Imagine a trip brimming with celebration and laughter—Carol Wolfe's son, Josh, embarked from Nebraska to Nashville, eager to witness the heartfelt "I dos" of two dear friends. Little did anyone know that this journey, meant for joy, would take an unexpected turn.Post-wedding festivities, Josh and a friend, decided to extend their Nashville stay for just one more night—an ordinary decision that would soon become extraordinary. Just moments after capturing a picture, Josh and two others collapsed, resulting in the tragic death of Josh and another person.Amidst the shock and grief, Carol learned that her son died from fentanyl—a revelation that brought forth more questions than answers. How did this happen? With no history of substance use disorder or drug abuse, how did fentanyl find its way into Josh's life? These are questions that thousands of parents find themselves wrestling with as our nation battles its deadliest drug epidemic in history.In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Carol talks about Josh's story and the message that, she thinks, all Americans need to hear. Also, check out more Grieving Out Loud episodes, including the story of a mom who believes her daughter died from drinking a bottle of water that contained diluted fentanyl.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

As an experienced mental health nurse practitioner, John Lally has extensive knowledge of mental health and substance use disorder issues. Yet, when his son confronted the challenges of anxiety, depression, and addiction, John discovered the profound difficulty of navigating such struggles.In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, John not only shares his difficult personal journey and what he wishes he would have done differently, but he also offers advice to parents going through similar struggles. Discover how he turned his pain into a mission to support others battling mental health issues and addiction. Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Our journey on Grieving Out Loud has been extraordinary over the past year. We've been graced by the voices of countless individuals who, with unwavering bravery, shared the intimate and challenging chapters of their lives entwined with substance use disorder. In these narratives, we've not only heard the heart-wrenching stories of parents who, despite the unimaginable loss, have summoned the courage to speak out about their children's battles with drug overdoses and fentanyl poisonings, but we've also been touched by the resilience and indomitable spirit that radiates from each story.This episode is a moment to relive some of the most touching, inspiring, and profoundly insightful conversations from 2023. These stories transcend pain and struggle, painting a vivid portrait of resilience, hope, and the unwavering human spirit that flourishes even amidst profound challenges.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Originally Released on November 30th, 2022Season's greetings from Grieving Out Loud! For this holiday special, we're revisiting an episode that holds valuable insights for many. Our guest today, Dr. Mark Vande Braak, played a significant role in host Angela Kennecke's grief journey following the loss of her 21-year-old daughter, Emily. As a thanatologist—a fancy term for a grief educator—Dr. Vande Braak guided Angela's family in the aftermath of Emily's passing. You might recall him from an earlier podcast, Episode 10, "Broken Heart Syndrome: Four Ways We Grieve."In this episode, Vande Braak has helpful, practical advice tailored for those grappling with loss during the holiday season—a time often dubbed the "most wonderful time of the year," yet one that can be the hardest and loneliest for those grieving. Tune in for insights that can bring comfort and support during this challenging time.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey

Grieving Out Loud host Angela Kennecke received a special invitation to the White House this year, where she met with some of America's top government officials working to end the historic drug crisis. The visit included discussions with prominent figures such as our nation's drug czar, the CDC director, and the Second Gentleman, Douglas Emhoff, Vice President Kamala Harris's husband. Angela also had the opportunity to connect with parents who, like herself, are grappling with the heartbreaking loss of their children to the fentanyl epidemic. One of those parents, Gary Carter, is the guest on this episode.Join us in this very candid conversation as Gary reflects on some of the signs he may have missed when his son started experimenting with drugs. He shares the difficult moments and lessons learned as he watched his son battle substance use disorder, find recovery, and then, amidst the hope and joy--suddenly die from fentanyl. Despite his profound grief, Gary is on a mission to help others identify warning signs of drug use and substance disorder through support groups and Hope's Room. Prepare for an enlightening and empowering discussion as we tackle one of the nation's most significant challenges.Support the showFor more episodes and to read Angela's blog, just go to our website, Emilyshope.charityWishing you faith, hope and courage! Podcast producers: Casey Wonnenberg & Anna Fey