Unsilence Grief

Georgie Hansen is a globally recognised bestselling publisher and author and founder of Mosaic Media - a revolutionary publishing house for female leaders to build ecosystems and empires from the magic within them.She's the creator of The Oracle Collection™ and Ora: The Writing Oracle™, a groundbreaking AI portal helping visionary women write and publish iconic books. Known for walking through fire and alchemising the unfathomable into power and presence, Georgie doesn’t just help women write books - she helps them become the authors of their life and legacy.You can connect with Georgie via her Insta channel:https://www.instagram.com/georgies_mosaic#angelmama #podcast #unsilencegrief #healing #nohierarchyingrief

Pam Baker is the founder and CEO of Widows Who Wine™, a national community and app designed to help widows rediscover connection, support, and joy after profound loss.

After losing her husband, Jon, to glioblastoma in 2021, Pam turned her personal experience into purpose - becoming an author and podcast host to guide others through the complexities of grief and estate planning.

She is the author of "Where’s the Key to the Safe?" and hosts two podcasts:"The Lost Love Stories", which offers heartfelt conversations for anyone who has lost someone they love; and "Coffee, Cancer & Cocktails", a candid and compassionate space to discuss the messy intersections of illness, caregiving, and resilience.

A seasoned philanthropist and community leader, Pam and her team have raised millions for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation following the diagnoses of two of her children. Based in Roswell, Georgia, she is the proud mother of four young adults and is known for opening her heart and home to a life filled with purpose, people, and plenty of laughter.

Here’s how to connect with Pam:

Website: https://www.widowswhowine.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pam.r.baker.5

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bakereed

Widows Who Wine IG: https://www.instagram.com/widowswhowine

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@coffeecancerandcocktails?si=qz1hqtZPi2ffYhFk

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pam-baker-12ab46222

Coffee Cancer & Cocktails Podcast: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2468865.rss

The Lost Love Stories Podcast: https://thelostlovestories.buzzsprout.com

Where's the key to the safe/Author Website: https://lastinglegacyconsulting.com

Amazon link to her book: https://a.co/d/d916x4T#widowswhowine

#bringbackjoy #cancersucks #carersneedsupporttoo #unsilencegrief #podcast #joy

For over two decades Ethan Getchell, LLMSW has experienced what it means to be a man, and he knows firsthand that exploring mental health only adds to the strength of that journey. Ethan advocates discussing mental health and that it will not strip you of your "man card" - in fact, it’s an essential part of being the best version of yourself.

As a Speaker Ethan engages audiences with insights on men’s mental health and the pursuit of a meaningful life. He's passionate about connecting with professionals, learning from their experiences, and furthering clinical mental health awareness. His goal is to bring warmth, compassion, and effective care as a counselor to all he encounters.

Listen to the previous episode with Ethan here:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5NEQSZk3V2fKww2MyuEKVE?si=7c3c3c8f13544faf

How to connect with Ethan:

W: https://heyman.pro

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethangetchell

IG: https://www.instagram.com/ethangetchell/

FB: https://web.facebook.com/ethan.getchell.9

#mensmentalhealth #suicideawareness #shouldertoshoulder #youngmen #unsilencegrief #podcast #healing #grief

Tessa Alexa Stanford is a True-Self Expression Mentor, Speaker and Founder of the Institute for Open-Hearted Psychology and Unspoken Global.

After gaining her First Class Honours in Psychology and working on the front line in social welfare for ten years, she left the system to seek deeper, more human approaches to healing.

Today, she works at the nexus of therapeutic care, creative expression, and social transformation, supporting her clients to remember their power, embrace their True Self, and express their unique leadership to create the change in the world only they can. Her latest creation is Revolutionary Grief - a transformational body of work that reframes grief as a portal for leadership, liberation, and systemic change.

How to connect with Tessa:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/tessa_alexa

FB: https://www.facebook.com/tessa.alexa

Website: www.tessaalexa.com

Linktree: linktr.ee/TessaAlexa

#sacredgrief #revolutionarygrief #divinefeminine #divinemasculine #divinemother

Natalie Bedard, lovingly known as NatNat, is an Emotional Healing Specialist and the founder of Lift OneSelf. Through her trauma-informed approach, she guides individuals toward emotional sobriety - helping them regulate their nervous systems, release emotional pain, and come home to themselves.

A resilient mother and survivor of life-threatening illness, NatNat brings lived wisdom, radical honesty, and deep compassion to every conversation. Her work centers on creating the safety to feel, soften, and reconnect with what’s already within.

She is also the host of the "Lift OneSelf" podcast, a sanctuary of raw conversations, somatic reflections, and soulful meditations. Whether she’s guiding a breathwork session or speaking from her scars, NatNat brings presence that lingers long after the mic turns off.

Because healing isn’t about perfection - it’s about presence.

Here is how you can connect with Natalie:

Website: https://www.liftoneself.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liftoneself

#somatichealing #transitioning #resetyournervoussystem #breath #podcast #unsilcencegrief

Paul Barnat found his passion in the health, wellness and personal development industry and has been following that passion for over 20 years.

He specialises in helping individuals optimise their health and wellbeing on a physical, and mental level, to build and live a fulfilling life - through breathwork, meditation, mindset and fitness coaching.

Paul is passionate about working with those who truly feel that they have so much more to offer in life, yet feel held back by life's challenges when stress, anxiety, and overwhelm take over. Helping them to reconnect, refocus and take charge of life.

Here's how you can connect with Paul:

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/paulbarnat_coach

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/Paul.focustheory

#unsilencegrief #podcast #breathe #breathework #vegasnerve #transforminganxiety #breathworkinschools

Jason MacKenzie is a husband, father, and entrepreneur.

He’s been married to his incredible wife Tanja for 12 years and is the proud father of Melody.Jason lost his first wife Cindy to suicide in 2010, and his daughter Chloe to a car accident in 2023. Jason runs a coaching program for dads who own businesses, and a leadership development company as well. Jason is a published author of a book aimed at fathers, and talks about grief on his popular TikTok channel. He also writes about grief for men, and the people who love them, on Substack.You can connect with Jason here:Substack: https://substack.com/@improvingman

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jason.s.mackenzie#death #suicide #mentalhealth #childloss #widower #widowhood

Linda Pierson is a mindset transformation coach with a bold heart and a sharp eye for potential. With over a decade of experience empowering individuals and teams, she helps people unlock emotional intelligence, reset unhelpful patterns, and reclaim the life they actually want - not just the one they’ve settled for.

From coaching teens to mentoring burnt-out leaders, Linda brings a unique blend of warmth, strategy, and real-world insight. Whether she is building leadership programs, guiding business owners to shift limiting beliefs, or inspiring personal breakthroughs, she is here to remind people that creating the life you want is an inside job - and the tools to do it are within reach.

Here is how you can connect with Linda:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindapiersonemotionalintelligencespecialistcoach

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/adailydose_oflinda

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADailyDoseOfLinda

#transitioning #sacredgifts #podcast #unsilencegrief

Robert B. Foster is a resilience coach, motivational speaker, and host of "Shut Up and GRIND", a podcast dedicated to empowering individuals to overcome self-doubt and transform adversity into opportunity.

After defying the odds of a career-threatening knee injury and rebuilding his life after losing everything, Robert now helps others master their personal stories, build confidence, and unlock their full potential.

Through his speaking, coaching, and recently published book, he inspires audiences to embrace challenges and create the lives they’ve always envisioned.

You can connect with Robert here:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/rfoster74

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbffitness

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Shut-Up-GRIND-Overcoming-Speaking-ebook/dp/B0DLV8ZR1L

#resilience #unsilencegrief #podcast

Laura Walton is a licensed mental health therapist, Clini-Coach®, grief coach and mentor, after loss professional, yoga instructor, and author.

When Laura was 21, her dad died by suicide. When Laura was 26, her then-boyfriend died of a drug overdose. Laura found her world shattered, and found herself desperately trying to navigate her new reality. She struggled to find good support through her grief, and has since made it her mission to support others through grief in the ways she couldn’t find.

Laura is the founder of 'Grief on Purpose', an online community offering education, courses, and support to grieving individuals and their support systems. 'Grief on Purpose' aims to change the conversation around death and grief.

Here's how you can connect with Laura:

Website: https://www.griefonpurpose.com

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/grief.on.purpose

FB: https://www.facebook.com/with.grief.on.purpose

#suicide #griefawareness #loss #drugoverdose #yoga #healing #unsilencegrief #podcast #psychology

I had the most absorbing conversation with Catherine behind the scenes - so now you can get an overview of WHY this is such an important conversation to have:

Catherine Jaynes, PhD, is a pioneering leader and the CEO of the Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support, an organization dedicated to developing sustainable systems to address childhood bereavement.

Formerly at Cicero Group, Bush Institute, the National Academies and the Bush Administration, she's leveraged policy and data to enhance child well-being. Her work spans education reform to global health initiatives, reflecting a deep commitment to improving lives.

More information or to connect with Catherine can be found below:

https://www.childrenscollaborative.us

https://www.newyorklife.com/foundation/bereavement-support/grief-sensitive-schools-initiative

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/children-s-collaborative-for-healing-and-support/

X: http://twitter.com/thecovidcollab

#childrenscollaborative #unsilencegrief #grievingchildren #letstalk #communitysupport

After the sudden loss of her husband at 47yrs old, Claire Bodle’s grief journey and eventual healing process has inspired her to write this book. Claire has 3 children and 3 grandchildren.

Immense and forever grateful for the love of her incredibly supportive family and friends, and thankful for the strength and courage she had found in her faith. Claire’s happy place is without doubt being at the beach, swimming in the ocean, enjoying a really good coffee and spending quality time with family and friends.

Working all her adult life as a Surgical Registered Nurse, and married for 21yrs, "I Will Be Your Voice" is Claire’s first book, and has been written with the intention that by telling her story, she will give comfort, hope and support to those who read it.

You can connect with Claire here:

Book: https://mybook.to/LLPOwM

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-bodle-383594352

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/123clairebear

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/claire.bodle.1

#nonhodgkinslymphoma #cancer #widowhood #unsilencegrief

Giovanna Silvestre, a visionary and trailblazer, embarked on a remarkable journey that took her from the prestigious halls of the University of Southern California to the world of entertainment. Beginning her career in Hollywood, Giovanna’s unwavering passion for creativity and innovation quickly distinguished her in the industry. Her sharp eye for talent and commitment to her craft led to a sought-after role alongside a renowned film director at a major studio.

However, after leaving the entertainment industry, Giovanna fell into a dark depression, a pivotal moment that forced her to confront her identity and purpose. This introspective time ignited her quest to discover who she truly was and why she was here on Earth, ultimately leading her to create her brand and write her book.

With an entrepreneurial spirit, Giovanna founded Confused Girl in the City, a unique activewear brand inspired by healing crystals. Driven by her determination and an innate sense of design, her innovative creations have garnered acclaim in prominent publications such as NBC and Forbes, while amassing a dedicated following of 400,000 on Instagram.

In May 2025, Giovanna’s highly anticipated book, Confused Girl: Find Your Peace in the Chaos will be published by Blackstone Publishing Company. Written during her two years of solo travel around the world, the book masterfully blends memoir and guidance, empowering readers to embrace confusion as a virtue that can lead to a fulfilling life.

Recognized for her influential voice and authenticity on major social media platforms, Giovanna exudes a magnetic aura that resonates with audiences everywhere. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and the transformative nature of embracing life's uncertainties.

You can connect with Giovanna here:

Book Launch Giveaway: https://confusedgirlinthecity.com/confused-girl-book-launch-giveaway

Amazon: https://a.co/d/6wlXt8Z

Website: https://confusedgirlinthecity.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/confusedgirlla

#confused #confusedgirl #booklaunch #italiandad #unsilencegrief #influencer #chooselove

Sarah Choujounian was one of the first  nurses to speak up against the lockdowns in Canada in 2020. She was fired, was put under 5 investigations by the College of Nurses, one which has now turned into a disciplinary hearing that may have precedence and is critical to freedom of speech in nursing.

She was defamed internationally by the media, has received countless death threats, summons and even had the RCMP show up at her door. She is the co-founder of the now inactive Canadian Frontline Nurses, proud advocates for medical freedom.

Sarah is also the founder of Lighting Up Dark Corners, an organization aiming at empowering people to heal and rise above their mental health issues by going to the root cause of the problem and standing in their truth instead of numbing them with drugs and/or prescription medications.

Needless to say, this is one to watch - continuously - and here's how you can connect with Sarah:

https://www.sarah4freedom.com

https://www.lightingupdarkcorners.com

https://www.instagram.com/sarah_choujounian

#staninyourtruth #healing #fibromyalgia #domesticviolence #sexualabuse #unsilencegrief #love

Jill Wijangco grew up in the midwest in the USA and spent all of her career as a photographer. She worked for newspapers all over the country and settled down in Chicago in early 2000 to raise her family of 3 boys. Jill's middle son Max died by suicide in 2022 and that changed the trajectory of all of their lives.

Together with her husband Ray, Jill founded Max's Mission, which is a nonprofit that provides support, education and resources to those affected by suicide loss, while fostering a strong community of suicide survivorship, where individuals can find hope, healing and connection in their grief journey.

You can connect with Jill here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-wijangco-1a54595

Charity: www.maxs-mission.org

#suicide #unsilencegrief #podcast #storytelling ❤️‍🩹🎙

AJ Coleman holds several titles, including widower and single father. He’s also overcome ahearing impairment, job loss, and crippling anxiety. Through it all, AJ learned to channel thesesetbacks mentally and emotionally, finding the new inner strength to reach higher limits. He has embraced, accepted, and grown from his past through self discovery.

Now, what began as a blog to share his experiences and perspectives has turned into his true passion for helping others also conquer life’s challenges with practical guidance and resources. Despite his obstacles, AJ has a very positive outlook on life. He reminds himself daily of how far he’s come and always remembers to be thankful for each opportunity.

A certified anti-money laundering specialist (CAMS) and fraud examiner (CFE), AJ earned his bachelor of science from the University of Florida – becoming a die hard Gator fan – and MBAfrom the University of Arizona.

AJ lives in Illinois with his wife, Tracy, and daughter, Zoey. His late wife and Zoey’s mother, Cory, lost her battle with brain cancer at 33. In addition to being a devoted father, AJ loves to travel and learn languages and is an avid Florida Gator football fan.

Connect with AJ here:

www.KeepThoseFeetMoving.com

www.facebook.com/keepthosefeetmoving

www.instagram.com/keepthosefeetmoving

#cancer #widowhood #soleparenting #griefandgrowth #love

Season 6 of Unsilence Grief kicked off today with Aaron Huey, a highly regarded expert in personal transformation, family recovery, and adolescent mental health. A proud parent and grandparent, his journey is deeply personal—rooted in overcoming addiction and embracing ADHD as his superpower.

DISCLAIMER: We do talk about suicide in this episode, which I know can be distressing. So, if you need resources or support go to beyondblue.org or for 24 hour free counselling in Australia, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14, or for the US call Lifeline on 988 - please look after yourself.

After choosing sobriety in 1998, Aaron dedicated himself to understanding patterns and habits, leading to profound personal and professional success. His work began in 2000 with a martial arts school that evolved into a multifaceted support program for struggling youth, culminating in the founding of Fire Mountain Residential Treatment Center, one of the most successful adolescent treatment centers in the US.

Following the center’s closure in 2021, Aaron shifted his focus to empowering parents, educators, and martial arts instructors to support at-risk youth. His Parenting Master Class, Beyond Risk and Back, won a Telly Award in 2021, and his Safe-Dojo initiative earned him a place in the Martial Arts Hall of Fame.

A prolific author, Aaron has written several books on personal growth, parenting, and transformation, including The Four Prime Archetypes and Parenting Teens That Struggle With Video Games. He also hosts the top-ranked podcast Beyond Risk and Back, offering expert insights and real-life stories to guide parents through the challenges of raising struggling teens.

Connect with Aaron via all personal and professional Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentingteensthatstruggle

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aaronmhuey/https://www.instagram.com/beyondriskandback/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/firemountainprograms/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The4PrimeArchetypes

https://www.youtube.com/@aaronhuey7779

Podcast: https://beyondriskandback.podbean.com/

Websites: www.parentingteensthatstruggle.com

www.ahr3.com

Books: (on Amazon)

The Four Prime Archetypes - Why We Do What We Do

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSWSMTQG

Parenting Teens that Struggle with Video Games https://a.co/d/6Tzasyt

FREE GIFTS! https://www.parentingteensthatstruggle.com/downloads-1

#suicide #suicideprevention #addiction #addictionrecovery #parentsofstrugglingteens #teenagers #selflove

Kristy Thomas is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer at Feel the Magic, where she brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to support grieving children.

With a Bachelor of Dance Education, Kristy has over a decade of experience teaching students from Kindergarten to Year 12 across New South Wales, and she spent 17 years running her own dance studio. Through her studio, she provided a safe and expressive space for young people, instilling confidence and belonging.

Kristy’s personal journey with grief began with the loss of her brother Corey at a young age, giving her a deep understanding of the impact grief has on families. This experience drives her dedication to Feel the Magic, where she passionately advocates for childhood grief awareness and support.

Her commitment as a mother of three boys also shapes her compassionate approach to her work.

Guided by her personal mantra — Love, Joy, and Connection — Kristy is committed to empowering grieving children with hope, resilience, and community.

A sought-after speaker, she inspires others to pursue their dreams and find strength through adversity, using her story to demonstrate the power of purpose and connection.

Here's how you can connect and support Feel the Magic:

Website: https://www.feelthemagic.org.au

Christmas Appeal: https://magic-of-christmas-2024.raiselysite.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/feel-the-magic

#feelthemagic #unsilencegrief #podcast #grievingkids #griefcamp #healing

International Award-Winning Mentor and Transformational Coach Katie Joy, known as The Global Butterfly, is an international award-winning mentor, coach, and transformational leader. Her journey of overcoming profound grief—including the loss of her identity after a career-ending marriage breakup and stepping away from her dream of becoming a critical care paramedic—has shaped her life's work.

Through these challenges, Katie found solace and strength in the power of gratitude, purpose, and alignment.She created the Gratitude, Gains, Appreciation (GGA) Method™ as a tool to guide herself and others through life's toughest transitions.

This approach has since inspired individuals worldwide to heal, grow, and transform their pain into purpose. In 2024, Katie was honoured with Gold and Bronze Stevie Awards for her groundbreaking contributions to personal and professional coaching.

As the founder of The Global Butterfly, Katie empowers others to navigate grief, rebuild their lives, and embrace soul-aligned success with compassion and grace. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, gratitude, and purpose.

Discover more at www.TheGlobalButterfly.com.

#domesticviolencesurvivor #awardwinningcoach

Christopher Cochran is the author of What’s GOOD About TODAY? - A Purpose Driven Life, a heartfelt tribute to his late son, Christian. Through his journey of Love, resilience, and positivity, Christopher has inspired countless others to find the good in each day, even amidst life's most challenging moments.

As a speaker, he shares Christian's story to help others navigate grief and discover purpose in the small, meaningful moments of life.

Here's how you can connect with Christopher:

Christopher's Website: https://www.chriscochranspeaks.com

Christian’s Website: https://www.christiancochran.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscochranspeaks

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pghcochran

What’s GOOD About TODAY? https://amzn.to/4imygBX

And here's a link to his son Christian's podcast Space Night: https://open.spotify.com/show/1WqflVhQyO6IPhpNWfvzJO?si=594ed4ac0fa146e7

#bileductcancer #love #legacy #unsilencegrief #podcast

Carrie E. Pierce has been writing professionally for over twenty years, most of which was spent writing acclaimed Health and wellness articles and books for Midlife readers. While catering to this mature audience, Carrie discovered there was a real need for quality children’s literature that could be enjoyed by parents and grandparents, too, as they read aloud to the youngsters in their lives.

Eager to fill this niche, she began crafting quality stories that contain important life lessons, written in a style that doesn’t talk ‘down’ to children but, instead, encourages them to learn new words and ask deep questions as they gain important tools for overcoming fear, pushing past loss and accepting themselves just as they are.

Carrie always speaks from experience, with an honest voice that holds nothing back. A red-headed, freckle-faced girl born in New Orleans and raised in Texas, Carrie found herself looking over fences, gazing at horizons, and wondering what was to be had ‘over there.’ What adventures were there, just beyond her reach, to be discovered? And she longed and wondered. And then, after much faith, overcoming, and effort, she discovered. And felt the urge to share with young and old alike.

During the course of her life, Carrie has known great highs – and very deep lows. She’s attained her dream of working in the Film and TV industry. She’s been published many times and has also co-hosted two acclaimed, internationally syndicated radio shows. She’s seen dreams come true – and has also walked through very dark times of tragedy and heartbreak.

She walked with her dad as he bravely fought Lewy Body dementia – and lost. And just recently, her beloved Mom -and very best friend- succumbed to cancer, dying in Carrie’s arms.

Awful as these events were, they’ve provided Carrie with an even richer insight into the human heart and spirit, giving her wisdom and gentleness often lacking in today’s world. These qualities are found throughout her books and articles- and are also evident in personal interactions with her.

Carrie lives in Idaho, surrounded by good friends, gorgeous scenery, and amazing people. When not writing, she enjoys snowshoeing, gardening, good food and wine – and dancing.

You can connect with Carrie here:

Author Page: https://morganpiercemediapublishing.com/carrie-e-pierce

Socials: https://www.instagram.com/authorcarrieepierce

https://www.instagram.com/morganpiercemediapublishing

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarrieEPierce

#unsilencegrief #podcast #loss #love #midlifewoman #motheranddaughter

It is such a pleasure of bringing you a rather special episode of Unsilence Grief, side by side with Kate Morgan.

When Kate was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer at 45, she was dumbfounded. The loudest voice in her head shouted “I have finally created my best life. Why did this happen to me?”

It was these questions that led to an entirely unexpected career change. Despite her once shy personality, Kate decided to train to become a funeral and marriage celebrant, hoping to find more meaningful work.

In 2021 Kate co-founded Tomorrow Funerals, an Australian based start-up disrupting the traditional and outdated funeral industry. Tomorrow creates tailored memorial services in unique spaces: pubs, galleries or at home, not in old-fashioned funeral parlours. The focus is on storytelling and celebrating life in a very personal way.

Here's how you can connect with Kate or visit her websites:

https://tomorrowfunerals.com.au

https://www.instagram.com/tomorrow.stories

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-morgan-97a79920

https://www.linkedin.com/company/tomorrowfunerals

https://katemorgan.net.au

https://www.instagram.com/katemorgan.celebrant

https://idodrivethru.com.au

#funerals #unsilencegrief #celebrationoflife #funeral #memorialservice

Holly Porter is a resilient entrepreneur, retreat leader specialist and author, who transformed her life through the profound experiences of grief and survival. Having lost loved ones, Holly faced intense sorrow, but it was her own near-death experience during a grueling 70-day hospitalisation with COVID-19 that reshaped her purpose.

Enduring intubations, a tracheotomy, and severe infections, she experienced a spiritual awakening that deepened her appreciation for life.

Embracing her second chance, Holly has since dedicated herself to helping others thrive, building innovative businesses, leading transformative retreats, and inspiring others to turn their challenges into catalysts for growth.

You can connect with Holly here:

Website: https://HollyPorter.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyporter

#neardeathexperience #outofbodyexperience #nonprofit #unsilencegrief #podcast

I am deeply touched by Julia Verdouw's story, which I have first heard in August 2022, when I interviewed Daniel Sih... Then Julia and I connected; and I heard her side of the story - which she will now share with you!

A quick intro: Julia lives with her three daughters in Hobart (Nipaluna), Tasmania, at the foot of the very beautiful Mt Kunanyi. Julia is an academic and lecturer in the field of education with a background in sociology, housing studies, and housing policy.

She loves Tasmania, deep conversations with friends, being with her girls, writing, poetry, music, reading, making connections between things, a warm fireplace, and walking in the foothills of the mountain. Julia has recently published a new book, which you can find on her website below!

Here's how you can connect with Julia:

Website: https://www.juliaverdouw.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-verdouw-6103ba1b

And here's the interview with Daniel Sih, Michael's best friend, who shared his side of the story with me in August 2022, a year after Michael's passing: https://youtu.be/klV08Li2YU8?si=hx5zA_-LfOnVlBr_

#unsilencegrief #podcast #communitysupport #faith #redemption #chickens ;)

Dr. Lynn Carey earned a doctorate in chiropractic and a bachelor's degree in nutrition from Life University. She owned a practice in Wilmington, Delaware, for eighteen years, and has traveled to Brazil and India. Dr. Carey loves empowering others to create their desired life of health, wealth, and perfect self-expression. Today, she stays busy pursuing her entrepreneurial dreams and homeschooling her teenage son.

Dr. Carey learned early about grief from the death of her father when she was 12. She gathered a lot of insight learning to heal herself after suffering with sickness and pain for many years. In her 18 years practicing as a chiropractor, Dr. Carey saw that chronic stress was the main issue for most people not healing. Chronic stress came from not enough time, not enough money, and not having passion or purpose in life. She knows, creating a desired lifestyle is the key to ultimate well-being.

You can connect with Dr. Lynn Carey here:

Website: https://www.creatingmydesiredlife.com

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/dr.lynncarey

#grief #healing #chiropractic #spinalsurgery #homeschooling #unsilencegrief

Another beautiful #connection ~ and I need to add a #triggerwarning 🙏

Simone O'Brien is a domestic violence survivor, speaker, strong advocate for women against violence, and mother of three beautiful children.

Her journey started in 2012, when she suffered a horrific attack at the hands of a perpetrator, who would not take “no” for an answer. It started with emotional and psychological abuse and ended up with her being beaten with a baseball bat, within inches of her life.

Somehow, with the support of family and friends, Simone got through that night (after her children had to say goodbye to her), and today she travels around Australia and Internationally, to share her story of courage and strength.

She raises awareness on the red flags, related to domestic violence and to prevent these incidents from happening again. Using her personal story of determination, resilience, courage and strength, Simone aims to champion non-violence against women and children.

Together, let’s stop domestic violence.

You can connect with Simone O'Brien here:

Website: https://www.simoneobrien.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simone-o-brien

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonemobrien

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simonemobrien

#domesticviolencesurvivor #abuserecovery #survivor #advocacy #redflags

Michelle Falzon is an Integrative Positive Psychology Practitioner, author, and founder of Alchemy of Evolution. With a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, Michelle has dedicated her work to helping individuals transform adversity into growth and lead lives of deeper meaning and purpose.

She is known for her unique Existential Wellbeing Framework and Alchemy of Transmutation Model, which she integrates into her coaching, workshops, and courses.

Her latest book, Healing Horizons: Real Stories of Growth and Transformation for Real People, shares inspiring journeys of post-traumatic growth and personal transformation.

You can connect with Michelle here:

Website: https://www.alchemyofevolution.com.au (Healing Horizons can be purchased from here.)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellefalzonalchemyofevolution/

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/alchemyofevolution

#infantloss #stillbirth #childloss #healing #grief #healinghorizons #unsilencegrief #podcast

Joshua Rivedal is the creator and founder of Changing Minds: A Mental Health Based Curriculum and The i’Mpossible Project. He has a degree in organisational psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. He is trained in community counselling from the Southern California Counselling Center and the teacher’s edition of emotional intelligence at Yale University’s Center for Emotional Intelligence.

For the last 13 years, he has given several hundred keynote speeches and workshops on suicide prevention, grief, resilience, and mental health across the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia. His original coursework on suicide prevention is taught in Washington State to various professions such as dentists, pharmacists, and occupational therapists. He is the author of eight books and co-author of three peer-reviewed journal papers, one of which is on the trajectory of the survivor of suicide loss. He has a certificate in food, nutrition, and health fromthe Community College of Philadelphia. As an actor, Joshua’s voice has been heard on US national commercials like Dell, McDonalds, Dunkin Donuts, and Johnnie Walker; on one of the Freckleface Strawberry Books, Cinderella Penguin, and as part of the award-winning voiceover cast of The Art of Secrets by James Klise. Joshua practices Taekwondo and achieved the rank of 1 st -degree black belt.

He is a standup comic and cook, and lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the United States.In 2009, at the age of 25, Joshua Rivedal lost his father, age 60, to suicide. And long before he was born, in 1966, he lost his paternal grandfather to suicide. In the aftermath of his father’s death, Joshua found it difficult to grieve the loss — in part, because of family challenges, but more so because healthy grieving and an awareness of mental health hygiene had never been presented to him as ideas or options.

In 2011, Joshua nearly attempted suicide due to feelings of hopelessness, a perceived lack of resources, multiple major life changes, stagnation in the grieving process, and undiagnosed and untreated health conditions, depression and anxiety. Thankfully, Joshua got help through counselling, friends, family, and persistence. Since 2012, he has spoken 40-50 times per year about mental health and suicide prevention to various audiences, always making sure to discuss healthy change management as well as healthy grieving and mourning.

You can connect with Joshua here:

Website: https://www.iampossibleproject.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-rivedal-48a636155

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshrivedal Amazon: https://www.amazon.com.au/stores/author/B00G10VFKM

Storytelling: https://www.pleaselive.org/blog/storytelling-will-save-the-world-yes-even-yours-joshua-rivedal

#suicideprevention #storytelling #epigenetics #healing #grief #unsilencegrief #podcast

As 3x cancer survivor Dr. Gretchen Holmes speaks on survivorship, leading a healthy and robust life, and transformational behaviour change. Having lost 110 pounds, she is excited to talk about how to achieve health-related goals and turn life's challenges into opportunities.

As an experienced researcher, Gretchen has published in top journals including Health Communication, Psycho-Oncology, and Injury Epidemiology. She has co-authored "The Patient Experience" in a recent Health Communication textbook, taught Behaviour Change Theory at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and has served as a national-level patient advocate for the National Cancer Institute since 2002.

Gretchen also serves on the editorial board for the Journal of Patient Experience. In 2007 she was awarded the “Spotlight on Female Scholars” from James Madison University and in 2014 was named one of 14 National Rural Health Association Fellows in health policy.Today Gretchen is back to talk about her book "The Work In Between"!

Here are the links to connect with Gretchen, get her book, and watch our previous interview on Unsilence Grief:

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Work-Between-Memoir-Stepping-Shadows-ebook/dp/B0CZSHSJCL

Website: www.gretchenholmesphd.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchennholmes

First Episode on Unsilence Grief: https://www.youtube.com/live/zUR1sJlPJKU?si=kCby1PiU53kNbPmJ

#cancersurvivor #diabetes #survivorsguilt #author #memoire #weightloss

Dana S. Diaz studied journalism and psychology at DePaul University. While there’s no better teacher than life experience and Dana has had life-long experiences with narcissistic abuse, her education did give her the ability to accurately verbalise and express how narcissistic abuse creates confusion and conflict within victims.

Today, Dana is a proud voice for fellow victims who are unable, afraid, or ashamed to share their experiences. She strives to create awareness and understanding to ensure victims are given the support they need to first understand their situation and then begin the healing process.

Her first book, chronicling her own abusive marriage that lasted nearly three decades, started as a journal that she hid under the couch cushion in the basement. Meanwhile Dana has published another book, and is about to release her third one!

You can connect with Dana here:

Website: https://danasdiaz.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/danasdiazauthor

Insta: www.instagram.com/danas.diaz

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-s-diaz-208927298

#grief #unsilencegrief #podcast #healing #narcissiticabuse #suicideideation

Susan's story goes deep!! I would like to start with a trigger warning - this interview contains topics about shootings, assassination, and suicide ideation!

Susan Snow is a keynote speaker and author. In 1985, her father, LAPD Detective Thomas C. Williams, died in the line of duty. Susan chronicles her journey through the trauma she experienced following her father’s death in 'The Other Side of the Gun', a book born out of her desire to heal herself, and mission to help others in their healing.

As a speaker, Susan holds thoughtful and empowering workshops and keynote presentations, and has appeared in several media outlets and public speaking forums.

Here's how you can connect with Susan:

Website: https://susansnowspeaks.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Other-Side-Gun-Journey-Resiliency/dp/B0BRYXZKY2

#ptsd #healing #grief #counselling

If you are triggered by this episode, please call a helpline to seek support.

Australia

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636

Suicide Help: 1300 659 467

America

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988

TrevorLifeline: 1–866–488–7386

I am happy to bring you an update on this wonderful lady, a previous podcast guest:

Shannon Traphagen is the host of the top rated "Game On Glio" Podcast, Author, Motivational Speaker, Ignite Award Winner, Business Owner of Write Life Media - Storytelling & Communications Consultant, and Founder of Traphagen's Trail Ride 4 Brain Cancer.

Shannon shares her story about losing her young husband to brain cancer, whilst going through an adoption process together...

You can watch our previous interview here: https://youtu.be/Okbyt_b6DZo?si=B7-xL2Gb_Jcgdi6m

Connect with Shannon here:

Website: https://thegameongliopodcast.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCR3RxfGgBJ79-mrEctD8vmw

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gameonglio

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/gameongliopodcast

#braincancer #glioblastoma #healing #grief #unsilencegrief #podcast #gameonglio

Caroline Roodhouse is an internal communications consultant with a decade of experience across a broad range of industries, including charities, education, health services, pharmaceuticals, and FMCG. In 2018, Caroline faced profound personal loss when Steve, her husband of 18 years took his own life without warning, leaving behind their two young children, Evie who was nine and Ada who was just two years old at the time. Caroline shares her experiences of unimaginable grief, pain, anger, confusion, acceptance and hope through her writing and speaking engagements, aiming to provide a voice and a sense of hope for those impacted by suicide. Caroline's book, Daddy Blackbird, launches in October 2024. Links to connect with Caroline Roodhouse: Website and book details: https://daddyblackbird.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-roodhouse-mcipr-a5948622 Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/daddy-blackbird-communications/ Evie's animation "Words Matter": https://vimeo.com/846178012/dd6bfc4bed?share #suicide #suicideawareness #wordsmatter #daddyblackbird #unsilencegrief #podcast

L;sa Sugarman is an author, a nationally syndicated columnist, a 3x survivor of suicide loss, a mental health advocate, and a crisis counselor with The Trevor Project. She writes the opinion column We Are Who We Are, and is the author of How To Raise Perfectly Imperfect Kids And Be Ok With It, Untying Parent Anxiety, and LIFE: It Is What It Is. L;sa is also a storyteller with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and a contributor on Healthline Parenthood, GrownAndFlown, TODAY Parents, Thrive Global, LittleThings, and More Content Now. Lisa lives and writes just north of Boston. L;sa is like a new found SoulSister to me - when you watch our conversation, you will understand why! Here is how you can connect with Lisa: Website: https://lisasugarman.com Resources: https://lisasugarman.com/resources LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/lisa-sugarman-16925b69 LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thelisasugarman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLisaSugarman YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thelisasugarman TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelisasugarman #healing #grief #suicide #unsilencegrief #thetrevorproject #suicidesurvivor #shareyourstory #itsoktonotbeokay #podcast

Paul Zolman is the author of 'Love is God'. In His wisdom, He placed us in a variety of circumstances that require us to find our way back to His pure love. So, what qualifies Paul Zolman to speak about love? His childhood experience of the opposite of love. From that austere beginning, and the distaste it formed inside him, he searched for and eventually created a method that transformed his life from anger to loving everyone.

Growing up in a family of abuse, physical touch became his preferred love style, only because of the regularity. He could almost count on it. It was consistent. He came to think that was the way to express love. But deep inside, he knew that was a twisted belief. He wanted a better life for himself, which is why he created a paradigm shift that works. In this book, you’ll find what helped Paul move from a childhood boot camp of abuse to being a person who loves everyone and can find good about anyone in any circumstance. This is truly the role of love.

You can connect with Paul Zolman here:

https://roleoflove.com

https://www.instagram.com/roleoflovedice

https://www.instagram.com/paul_zolman

https://www.facebook.com/roleoflovedice

https://www.facebook.com/paul.zolman.7

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulzolman

https://x.com/roleoflovedice

#childhoodabuse #lovelanguages #roleoflove #unsilencegrief #healing #grief #love

Today we have Denise Dielwart with us, and I am excited to share her story.

In the aftermath of loss, finding a path forward can seem like an insurmountable challenge. Denise Dielwart's journey began in the shadow of profound grief after the loss of her husband in 2009. It was a journey that led her to create the FLOW Grief Release Method (Feel, Let go, Overcome, become Whole) — a pathway she designed not only to navigate her own healing, but to share with others facing similar heartache.

You can connect with Denise via her website: https://www.flowgriefacademy.com

#grief #unsilencegrief #healing #flow

Dr. Momoko Uno was living in New York City when she received news that her mother was about to pass during the height of the pandemic while Australia was under lock down.

Fortunately she was able to find a flight home in time, and half way during the hotel quarantine her mother passed away. She was granted a 30 minute visit to leave quarantine to see her mother just before she died.

During the 2 week period of solitary confinement, Momoko also almost died due to an unexpected flare up of her serious illness that had been in remission.

Momoko grappled with her own mortality and the death of her mother alone; and although the experience took a toll, the experience was an opportunity of growth and resilience.

She wrote a memoir, Fourteen Days, about her story.

You can find her memoir here: https://momokowrites.com And here is how you can connect with Dr. Momoko:

https://www.facebook.com/MomokoUnoOfficial

https://www.instagram.com/momoko_uno

#unsilencegrief #healing #grief #covid19 #quarantine #mastcellactivationsyndrome #memoire

Carol Cooke is a 3-time Gold Medal Paralympian and 9-time World Champion in Para-Cycling.

Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, she grew up as a swimmer with aspirations of competing at the 1980 Moscow Olympic Games, the opportunity vanished with the Moscow Games being boycotted.

She then followed in the footsteps of her family and joined the Metropolitan Toronto Police Force where she worked for 14 years, 4 of those undercover in the Prostitution and Drug areas.

After moving to Australia and in the process of building a new life, she was devastated when diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1998. By 2001, her introduction to disability had begun.

Today she shares her story about the Force within her!

You can connect with Carol via her website: https://www.carolcooke.com.au or via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-cooke-am-ply-a728201b

#paralympics #keynotespeaker #ms #theforcewithinyou #unsilencegrief #healing

Cheryl Hutto is a Grief and Caregiver Coach based in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. She focuses uniquely on ambiguous grief in the caregiving journey and is an expert in guiding individuals through the complex emotions that arise when caring for loved ones with dementia. Cheryl's work addresses the daily, unresolved losses that caregivers experience, helping them navigate this often-overlooked form of grief. With years of experience in both caregiving and coaching, she empowers her clients to recognise and process their grief, prioritise self-care, and reclaim their resilience. Cheryl offers private coaching sessions, facilitates support groups, and teaches innovative techniques incorporating body awareness as a path to healing. Her compassionate approach equips care partners with practical tools to face the unique challenges of ambiguous grief, fostering strength and renewed hope in their caregiving journey. You can connect with Cheryl via her website: https://cherylhutto.com Or via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-hutto-4204a3186 #grief #ambiguousgrief #caregiving #caregivers

Jeffrey Johnston lost his son, Seth, in 2016 to fentanyl poisoning. From there, Jeff decided to change the trajectory of his life. He realised that in the face of grief and loss he had two choices. He could go down a road of anger and despair, and become bitter, or he could use his situation as motivation to become better. Jeff chose the latter. He took a step back from his career as a financial advisor and began to focus on ways he could make a difference. In 2021, Jeff lost his wife of 21 years, Prudence, to alcoholism. This furthered his passion for bringing awareness to these issues.

Jeff is now the CEO of startup Brightn, an Author, the Founder of “The Living Undeterred Project”, and host of “The Living Undeterred Podcast”, all fuelling his strong advocacy and mission to offer resources and help, developing alternative solutions to the mental health and addiction crises.

You can connect with Jeffrey on the following links: https://www.brightn.app

https://www.linkedin.com/company/brightnapp

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-a-johnston

And here are our previous interviews under #UpspiralGrief:

https://youtu.be/EXFTkEpuCTM?si=dmqbhoBvx1I4qTqW

https://youtu.be/_84QLuEuFiM?si=6gX5IuP7ChTSIYwy https://youtu.be/I06PhCAVWgo?si=rJX56KaUcB70D_LE

Enjoy - and please spread the word about Brightn, to support our youth and young adults through finding their path in life!

#unsilencegrief #mentalhealth #suicideawareness #healing

Cathy Domoney lost her father four years ago, and navigated her grief from across the other side of the world, which made the process more complex. She talks about how she journeyed through this whilst holding space for the grief of her five children, as well as the unlikely gift that came from the grieving. Cathy works with high-performance leaders, professionals, and business owners, dissolving their blocks, traumas, and triggers in only three sessions impacting them in miraculous ways, both personally and professionally, unleashing their ability to have more impact, success, money, and legacy.

You can connect with Cathy here: https://www.cathydomoney.com #unsilencegrief #podcast #neurodiversity #healing #trauma

Regan Espinosa's father had died suddenly, the week before Thanksgiving in 2020. Due to the pandemic restrictions, her family could not attend the funeral. She had left a picture of her family at his grave, yet when she returned, it had blown into a nearby field. Regan saw a problem, and through her grief she created a solution.

Creating "The Visit Box" was a therapeutic and healing outlet through her grief journey. She was also ‘stuck’ on days when trying to understand what stage of grief she was in. Grief counseling and support groups she finally attended helped, but she continued thriving with her own grief coaching process "(W)hole In My Heart". The hole Regan felt with the loss of her dad, became a part of her, while also feeling ‘whole’.

The Visit Box was one part of my grief journey. Utilizing my expertise as an occupational therapist and fitness professional I applied my knowledge and experience into tools to serve others that are experiencing loss.

To connect with her, please go to https://www.wholeinmyheart.com

#grief #unsilencegrief #healing #visitbox

A 3x cancer survivor, Gretchen Holmes is a dynamic speaker and host of "The Work in Between" podcast, where she and her guests take a deep dive into the struggles, joys and daily actions that move us toward physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Diagnosed with diabetes in 2021, Gretchen transformed her life by losing 110 pounds, and continues to focus on the daily work necessary to maintain a vibrant, healthy lifestyle. Previously, Gretchen worked as a stand-up comedian and continues to use humor to navigate the complexities of life. She was also co-creator, co-producer, writer, and on-air talent for WUMR’s “Let’s Talk Health”, and ranked in the "100 Successful Women to Know on the Gulf Coast" in 2022 by Gulf Coast Woman magazine.

Join us for our final episode, live in "Loving Life after Loss" NOW 🙂

This is one not to be missed!!

Sarah Choujounian was the first nurse to speak up at a rally against the lockdowns in Canada. She is also the co-founder of Canadian Frontline Nurses, proud advocates for medical freedom, who are now creating a new healthcare paradigm.

She is also the founder of Lighting Up Dark Corners, an organization aiming at empowering people to heal and rise above their mental health issues by going to the root cause of the problem instead of numbing them with drugs and/or prescription medications.

I am deeply moved by Sarah's story and can't wait to introduce you to her, talking about her own grief, triumphs and purpose in life!

Note: These interviews are recorded & shared on various platforms to spread positive & inspiring impulses around the globe on how to deal with loss differently to what society currently has on offer!

For further resources please visit MarieAlessi.com.