Grieving Voices

Send Victoria a text message!Today, I'm sharing my conversation with my former Do Grief Differently client, Delyla Ovalle-Bowyer, a dedicated research associate at UT Austin's Texas Center For Disability Studies. Delyla shares her transformative journey into special education and advocacy after initially struggling to find direction in life. The conversation is especially poignant as it marks the second anniversary of her father, Fred Bowyer's passing—a pivotal moment that led Delyla to seek help with me through my one-on-one, 12-week program, Do Grief Differently. This dialogue illuminates how grief was once an unspoken topic in her family but has since become a source of personal growth and healing for Delyla.Key Takeaways:Embracing Change: After living with her mother in Houston, Delyla transitioned to a new career and community in Austin, strengthening familial relationships.Understanding Self: A significant revelation came when she discovered she was on the autism spectrum—a realization supported by her sister—after years of being misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder.Building Resilience: Through vulnerability and resilience, Delyla faced grief head-on with therapeutic tools like Do Grief Differently, tapping, and supportive friendships at work.Honoring Legacy: She finds unique ways to commemorate her father's memory, such as bike rides where she spreads his ashes, highlighting how accepting emotions can lead to clarity.Delyla's story is one of courage and transformation. In sharing her experience working with me, she highlights the positive impact of structured support systems in navigating loss while fostering personal growth. By embracing adaptability and compassion identified through tools like YouMap and learning from cherished memories with her father, Delyla continues to advocate for others facing similar challenges. Her message encourages engaging with community resources for healing while maintaining hope for future endeavors within special education advocacy.RESOURCES:Do Grief DifferentlyCONNECT:IGFBLinkedIn_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: Support the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!D Paul Fleming, a retired Navy veteran and spiritual healer, shares his lifelong journey from trauma to healing. His story is a testament to resilience, as he recounts overcoming severe childhood abuse detailed in his book "2,442 Steps To Crazy." Through writing and sharing his experiences, Fleming found therapeutic relief while inspiring fellow veterans facing similar challenges. D Paul and I discuss the systemic issues within the Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system. Despite its flaws—such as inconsistent care and bureaucratic hurdles—our conversation highlights the need for holistic support addressing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual pain.Fleming’s narrative underscores the power of storytelling in healing processes and advocates for creating safe spaces where veterans can freely express their vulnerabilities without judgment. He emphasizes unity among veterans regardless of their roles or experiences during service. Reflecting on personal anecdotes about confronting suicide temptations due to VA shortcomings further illustrates these struggles’ complexity.Ultimately, Fleming inspires hope by urging others to share and listen deeply—a call to action reminding us that through collective understanding comes strength and healing beyond individual battles faced alone.RESOURCES:Book, 2,442 Steps to CrazyBook, A Date with SuicideOperation Deep DiveGretchen Smith | Code of VetsGrief Recovery MethodCONNECT:WebsiteXFB_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!In a world increasingly defined by division and isolation, radical belonging offers a powerful antidote to the epidemic of loneliness. Joe Primo's article, "Radical Belonging in an Age of Othering," featured on Grateful Living, delves into this pressing issue with profound insights that resonate deeply amidst our post-pandemic reality.In this week's episode, I read his article out loud because, although I tried, I couldn't have written it better myself. This article (and episode) hits on individual responsibility, which couldn't be more important as we face an election year in the United States, which goes right into the holidays when we will gather with friends and families, many with opposing views, beliefs, and diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and preferences. The Loneliness EpidemicSurgeon General Vivek Murthy has sounded alarms about a growing crisis—loneliness. This isn't just about feeling alone; it's a public health concern with wide-ranging societal implications. As social structures were disrupted during COVID-19, many isolated themselves from their communities and support systems. Now more than ever, rebuilding connections is vital to societal well-being.Understanding 'Othering'Primo introduces us to the concept of 'othering,' where differences are highlighted not as strengths but as reasons for exclusion. This binary thinking creates barriers between people based on race, religion, culture, or politics—a misguided attempt to find belonging through conformity rather than embracing diversity. The danger here lies in mistaking fitting in for true belonging. The Power of BelongingBelonging is akin to love—it’s unconditional and rooted in internal and external acceptance. To belong means being comfortable with oneself while honoring others' dignity despite differences. It's recognizing that everyone holds inherent value simply by existing.RESOURCES:Full Article | Radical Belonging in an Age of Othering by Joe Primo_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!In this week's episode, I share what I mean when I say at the end of every episode, "When you unleash your heart, you unleash your life." For me, it's more than a slogan; it's a belief. I navigated over 30 years of unresolved grief, resentment, and anger to achieve profound personal growth and self-realization. Healing is about unleashing one's heart to truly unleash one's life—a conviction born from addressing painful experiences and reframing and seeing those past experiences differently to benefit my evolution and growth. My initial skepticism could have stopped me from even giving the Grief Recovery Method a chance. By choosing to embrace the transformational framework, the Grief Recovery Method, I unleashed my heart. In turn, I unleashed my life. We can identify as broken hearts or unleashed hearts; the choice is always ours._______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!In today's episode, Rev. Christine Davies, a hospital chaplaincy leader, shares the path that led her into spiritual care and offers invaluable insights on navigating grief. A deep church involvement from childhood shaped her life path, a calling toward medicine influenced by her nurse mother, and personal health crises that highlighted the importance of compassionate bedside manners.Christine emphasizes chaplains' unique role in healthcare—focusing on emotional and spiritual support rather than just logistical aspects like social workers. She underscores the necessity of open conversations about end-of-life issues, informed by her own experiences with pregnancy loss and grief. These discussions are crucial for making advanced care plans that respect patients' wishes.Key takeaways from Christine’s insights include:Personalized Spiritual Support:Individualized guidance is essential during times of grief.Chaplains fill critical gaps in patient care through collaboration with medical teams.Navigating Grief:Intrapsychic loss involves not only mourning what was lost but also shattered plans.Acknowledging each person's unique experience is vital for healing.End-of-Life Conversations:Open dialogue about death prepares families emotionally.Advanced care planning ensures patients' wishes are respected.Holistic Healing Practices:Integrative modalities like Reiki can complement traditional counseling to address energetic aspects of grief.Caregiver Self-Care:Setting boundaries and seeking personal wellness resources is crucial for caregivers’ well-being.Advocacy for Holistic Healthcare:There’s a need to integrate holistic practices within the healthcare system despite systemic challenges.Christine's work highlights how embracing emotional expression and physical activities can aid in grieving processes while advocating for more comprehensive patient-centered care approaches within healthcare settings.Her story inspires us to live meaningfully, engage openly in conversations about mortality, seek supportive communities during grief journeys, and advocate relentlessly for holistic patient care that honors every aspect of the human experience—emotional, spiritual, and physical.RESOURCES:SDI.orgDo Grief DifferentlyEnneagramReikiBiofield TuningBook, Support the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!Amidst the challenges of her daughter Dalia's rare condition, MERRF Syndrome, this week's guest, Jessica Fein, also faced the crushing blows of losing her mother, father, and both sisters during the same trying period. Her story is a tapestry of sorrow and strength, woven with threads of love and loss that resonate deeply with the human experience.The uncertainties surrounding her daughter's diagnosis added layers of complexity to Dalia's health, making it a daunting task to predict her future. Jessica's unwavering determination to advocate for her daughter, alongside the weight of her losses, paints a poignant picture of courage in the face of adversity.As Dalia's health declined, necessitating intensive care and tough decisions, Jessica grappled with the harsh reality that not everything could be fixed. Her transition from seeking a cure to enhancing Dahlia's quality of life reflects a mother's boundless love and commitment to her child's well-being.Throughout the episode, Jessica's reflections on witnessing her loved ones' pain and her journey through grief and healing resonate with a profound sense of vulnerability and resilience. Her ability to find glimmers of joy and connection (with herself, friends, and spouse) amidst the darkness speaks volumes about the human spirit's capacity for hope and strength amid hardship.Jessica's story reminds us of the intricate dance between love and loss, woven together with threads of grace and grit. Her journey embodies the transformative power of facing life's most challenging trials with unwavering love, compassion, and a resilient spirit that shines through even in the darkest times.RESOURCES:Book, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMitoActionCONNECT:WebsiteIGFBLinkedIn_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!I'm excited to share this episode with Amanda Popovski, in which we discuss everything related to being an empath or highly sensitive person (HSP).I could feel the energy behind the words Amanda used in her application, and the synergy I felt with her was one of being a kindred spirit. Sometimes, there are people in this world you click with, and it was refreshing not only to be and feel seen by Amanda but, more importantly, I hope she felt seen by me as well.  This episode is a masterclass of sorts for empaths (HSPs). We discuss everything from personal growth and evolution as an empath (HSP), the energetics of what it means to be an empath (HSP), how it shows up in our lives, the challenges we face as empaths (HSPs) in a world that isn't exactly fully accepting of us deeply feeling and emotional beings, and how we can leverage this energy as our superpower. From childhood experiences as an empath (HSP), leaving corporate (against her family's wishes), people-pleasing, entrepreneurship, dating, friendships, and everything in between, I hope you feel seen in this episode, if you find, like myself and Amanda, where being an empath (HSP) has just seemed to feel like a cruel curse at times.  This is a love note from Amanda and me to all empaths and HSPs. Dear fellow empaths/HSPs, You are a powerful and necessary force that is deeply needed in the fabric of humanity. 💛RESOURCES:Ep Blog Post for List of Full ResourcesCONTACT:WebsiteIGFacebookLinkedIn_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!Inspired by recent discussions, this episode offers a new perspective that's been noodling around in my mind. In this week's episode, I explore the question: Is there a wrong way to grieve? Key Points:Societal Struggles with Grief: Despite popular belief that all grieving methods are valid, society often fails at effective coping—indicating a need to reevaluate our grief practices.Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms: People frequently turn to short-term harmful behaviors like substance abuse, gambling, or workaholism as an escape from grief rather than confronting their emotions head-on.Cultural Responses to Grief: Common advice such as "be strong" or "stay busy" reflects societal discomfort with grief rather than offering real support for healthy emotional processing.Impact on Children: These unhealthy responses are often learned in childhood and perpetuate ineffective grieving cycles; teaching children healthier mechanisms is crucial for breaking these patterns.Rethinking Language: Instead of saying there's no wrong way to grieve, acknowledging that better ways can be more constructive in framing our approach toward grief.This episode challenges listeners to reflect deeply on their own experiences with loss while encouraging a transformative shift towards healthier approaches to dealing with grief—for individual growth and the betterment of society. RESOURCES:Bi-weekly newsletter, The Unleashed Letters_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!With over a decade of experience collecting stories globally, this week's guest and author, Annie Sklaver Orenstein, has been featured on platforms such as NPR and Time. Her book, Always a Sibling: The Forgotten Mourners Guide to Grief, is an empathetic resource for surviving siblings—a group often overlooked in mourning.Annie shares her insights about sibling relationships being some of the longest-lasting bonds in life. This perspective offers new dimensions to understanding grief, especially for those who haven't experienced sibling loss themselves. She emphasizes that siblings spend more time together during childhood than with their parents—highlighting how integral these relationships are.Annie shares her personal story of losing her brother Ben, who was killed in Afghanistan after enlisting pre-9/11 with aspirations to serve politically and make impactful changes. The raw recounting of receiving the devastating news underscores the surreal nature of loss and its immediate emotional upheaval.Key Takeaways:Sibling Relationships: Often our longest-lasting bonds, crucial yet frequently neglected in grief discussions.Suppressing Emotions: Surviving siblings might downplay their grief to protect grieving parents.Anger & Coping: Allowing oneself to feel intense emotions like anger can be vital for healing.Cultural Misunderstandings: Children aren't necessarily emotionally equipped despite exposure; they need support tailored to their developmental stage.Grief’s Unique Forms: Each person's process is distinct; societal stages don’t capture every individual experience.Annie highlights that while society often overlooks sibling mourners, acknowledging their unique grief journey is essential. Her advocacy through writing serves as a reminder that all forms of grief deserve recognition and respect.Ultimately, this episode sheds light on navigating complex emotions following a sibling's death while stressing self-compassion and honest emotional expression as pillars for coping with such irreplaceable losses.RESOURCES:Annie's Book | Always a Sibling: The Forgotten Mourner's Guide to GriefEp. 68 | Ken RossSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!Today's guest, Carolina Sotomayor, is a renowned fertility Reiki womb healer who shares how Reiki helped her conceive her son. We also dive deeper into her childhood stories and the emotional wounds that created what Carolina believes were the energetic blocks to conceiving. Carolina's Path to Healing 🧘‍♀️Personal Struggles: Initially struggling with conception despite no medical issues, Carolina turned to Reiki after suggestions from her grief therapist and a psychic.Journey Through Adversity: Her pregnancy was filled with challenges, including anxiety, surgeries, and postpartum depression. Reiki played a pivotal role in her recovery.The Power of Energy Healing 💫Reiki Success Stories: With experience in four different lineages and over 100 successful “Reiki babies,” Carolina’s practice connects mothers-to-be with their spirit babies.Make A Baby Membership: Offers live sessions, guided meditations, prerecorded modules, and masterclasses for women on their fertility journeys.Embracing Self-Care 🎗️Cultural Reflections: Highlights how societal conditioning often undervalues self-care leading to involuntary life pauses such as illnesses or accidents.Nonnegotiable Self-Care: Stresses make self-care nonnegotiable in releasing trapped emotions and preventing physical ailments and emotional blockages.Overcoming Childhood Trauma 🛤️Tumultuous Upbringing: Raised by a single mother struggling with alcoholism and anger issues, she faced neglect from both parents post-divorce.Resilience & Boundaries: Shares insights on generational pain while emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries for emotional well-being.Transformative Insights 🌺Recognizes that ignoring personal healing can lead to profound crises.Advocates for prioritizing oneself as central to breaking cycles of trauma.Carolina’s experiences underscore the transformative power of confronting unresolved emotions. She passionately advocates recognizing self-worth while creating supportive communities worldwide to help women achieve their motherhood dreams.Let this episode inspire you to embrace your journey toward healing and hope! 💖RESOURCES:WebsiteThe Make a Baby PodcastYouTube ChannelCONNECT:InstagramTikTok_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provideSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!Unlock the power of deep connections with one simple phrase: "Tell me more."Today, I explore how a single statement can transform relationships and foster emotional honesty. I also explore the impact of inviting others to share their stories, emphasizing the importance of being present and truly listening.Key Takeaways:- Discover why "Tell me more" is a game-changing invitation for deeper conversations.- Learn how to create safe spaces for emotional sharing without needing to fix or judge.- Understand the significance of connecting through genuine storytelling in your relationships.Tune in now to enrich your interactions and support those around you on their grief journey.RESOURCES:Teeccino - listeners receive 10% off the entire order with the code "THEUNLEASHEDHEART" _______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!Let me support you in this week's episode by guiding you through a journey of understanding grief—especially when someone close doesn't seem to be handling a family death well. This isn't just another conversation but an invitation for introspection and growth.Key Highlights:The episode is thoughtfully structured around three pivotal areas:Coping Perspectives: It challenges us to question societal grieving norms and consider what constitutes healthy coping.Relationship Dynamics: Every bond with the departed is unique. Energy & Focus Direction: Looking inward at our own healing rather than outward in judgment.Open dialogue about grief within families can lead to personal healing and generational change. This isn't easy, but it’s necessary for healthy healing to continue within family dynamics —and ultimately transform generational trauma and beliefs that are not in anyone's highest good. I invite you to engage further, ask probing questions about your own experiences with grief, and explore resources for guidance on this tender path.This episode goes beyond mere discussion—it offers deep insights that may help you unlock something deep within that, perhaps, you've never realized before hearing this episode. If you find it helpful, please share this episode with someone you know and love, for it may unlock something for them, too. And who knows...it may be a catalyst for conversation as well. 💛RESOURCES:Human DesignYouMapDo Grief DifferentlyEp. 207 with Tiff Carson _______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!In this emotional and deeply personal episode of Grieving Voices, Tiff shares the impact of generational trauma and the subsequent loss of her brother to a fentanyl overdose. Tiff Carson found her brother Cory’s struggle with addiction frustrating and impossible to understand until he chose to use his voice. It was her brother using his voice that became the catalyst for Tiff to choose to love her brother through his struggles, as well as her own. Tiff shares how a joint therapy session with her brother helped reconnect them as siblings by opening up dialogue about their shared experiences.Alongside the grief of watching her brother struggle with addiction, Tiff shares the struggles she and her husband experienced with IVF, parenting struggles, and her subsequent divorce that followed the death of her brother.  Takeaways on this episode:Sibling grief is often overlooked but carries profound significance throughout one’s life.Early traumatic events can set individuals onto difficult paths; understanding these origins is crucial for empathy and support.Transparent communication about emotional pain within families is essential for collective healing.Join me as Tiff and I discuss these topics, which remind us that while our journeys may be hard at times, they are also filled with beauty when approached with openness and vulnerability.RESOURCES:Tiff's Book | Dancing in the RainBook | Always a SiblingPodcast | Hard Beautiful JourneyCONNECT:WebsiteIGFB_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFaSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!This week's guest, Becky Ellis, recounts how her father’s concealed World War II experiences shaped their family life, culminating in her powerful memoir Little Avalanches. Join us as we explore themes of secrecy, resilience, and reconciliation.Key Highlights:Discover how Becky navigated through the silence surrounding her father’s wartime past.Understand the challenges she faced while balancing reverence for his heroism against the shadows it cast over their family dynamics.Learn about Becky's decade-long journey to penning Little Avalanches and its role in mending the fractured relationship with her father.Deep Dive Into Emotional Legacies:Grasp how children process trauma differently and why giving them a voice is crucial.Witness Becky’s transformation as she listens to her inner child and adult self during writing.Feel moved by the harrowing tale of the fateful day at the Mark River, which left indelible scars on her father and all involved.Becky exemplifies resilience through storytelling, illustrating how unearthing past pains can lead to profound personal transformation and provide voices for those whose narratives are seldom heard. Her life story emphasizes empathy as the key to truly understanding others’ struggles while coping with grief, both inherited and experienced firsthand.This isn't just another war story; this is an invitation—to see beyond medals and accolades and into hearts haunted by battlefields far removed from sight and yet ever-present. It’s an exploration of what happens when we confront grief head-on instead of shying away—an acknowledgment that sometimes joy is found not despite sorrow but because we've dared to embrace it fully.RESOURCES:Becky's Memoir | Little AvanchesMovie | A Monster CallsEp. 202 Yvonne CaputoCONNECT:WebsiteIGFBLinkedIn_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available Support the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!This week, I had the privilege of hearing from Ed Owens, vice president of the Grief Recovery Institute, in a deeply moving episode of the Grieving Voices podcast. As Vice President of the Grief Recovery Institute, Ed's narrative isn't just about loss; it’s about discovery—the kind that reshapes lives. From his military background to law enforcement tenure, he was schooled in emotional compartmentalization until life delivered its harshest lesson through his greatest loss: the death of his 3-year-old son, Ryan.This wasn’t just a turning point for Ed; it was an unraveling—a catalyst that compelled him to seek healing beyond traditional avenues. The Grief Recovery Method didn't merely offer solace; it provided clarity and purpose, revealing insights into male grief often shrouded by societal expectations.Ed challenges us to look beyond labels like "toxic masculinity," advocating for empathy over division. He sees our shared struggles as conduits for unity—emotional commonalities that can bridge ideological divides if only we dare to acknowledge them.His message resonates with profound simplicity: Recognize your pain, own your choices, and rewrite your future—not as isolated chapters but as part of a collective human experience yearning for connection.Join us in this conversation that goes beyond mere words into actions that echo across lifetimes. Let's create ripples together, capable of washing away walls built from unspoken sorrows.RESOURCES:Grief Recovery InstituteThe Diary of a CEO | Gender Expert (episode about Boys/Men today)Victoria's GRM MicrositeCONNECT:WebsiteEmail: edowens[at]griefrecoverymethod[dot]com_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!We encounter moments that shape our journey in profound ways. Ann Hince's story is a testament to such transformation—a narrative woven with threads of grief, self-awareness, and, ultimately, healing.In this week's episode, I had the privilege of hearing from Ann Hince, an inspiring author, speaker, and spiritual guide. She opened up about her path to healing after enduring profound trauma and grief.Key Points Discussed:Ann's Transformation: After releasing deep-seated grief from childhood traumas—including finding her mother dead—Ann experienced physical changes in her body.Childhood Trauma: Ann opens up about the multiple layers of grief stemming from being born with a physical condition, given up for adoption into a family already dealing with loss, experiencing a house fire, attending boarding school under challenging circumstances, dealing with alcoholic parents, and ultimately losing her mother at age 19.Discovery Journey: The pivotal moment came when Ann realized that past traumas were affecting her present life. This epiphany occurred during an altercation, leaving her mind spinning uncontrollably for three days.Healing Techniques:Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT): Introduced by a holistic physician who helped reduce stress associated with traumatic memories.Feeling Your Feelings: A method where Ann learned to focus on physical sensations related to emotions until they released.Spirituality & Self-Awareness:Developing self-awareness through healing practices contributed to exploring spirituality.The realization that we are not our bodies and that there is a distinction between body and soul/spirit sparked further interest in spiritual texts.The connection between inner tranquility and physical health couldn't be more evident in Ann’s experience: releasing emotional tension nurtured mental well-being. It led to astonishing physical changes—including growing taller! Her story underscores how self-awareness can catalyze healing across all dimensions—emotional freedom isn’t just about feeling better mentally; it can manifest physically, too.RESOURCES:Website | EFT/Tapping Cheat Sheet, Artwork, and More!Ann on YouTubeHuman DesignSadhguru | Inner EngineeringCONNECT:FacebookLinkedIn_______NEED HELP?Support the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!Grief isn't merely an emotion; it's a profound energy that demands reflection and immersion into our deepest feelings. But too often, our intellect and ego stand as gatekeepers, preventing the deep emotional healing we desperately need.In this week's solo episode, I speak of the body as a compass through loss. Grief tells us when to pause and feel deeply if only we stay grounded enough to heed its guidance. Neglected grief is insidious—it can manifest into physical ailments or emotional turmoil.Key Points Discussed:Grief's Energetics: I compare grief to a body of water that overwhelms us and emphasizes the importance of allowing ourselves to feel deeply rather than intellectualizing our emotions.Physical and Emotional Connection: Our bodies and emotions have a visceral understanding of loss. The Impact of Unprocessed Trauma: How past traumas, like sexual abuse or physical violence, can lead us to dissociate from painful experiences and how this affects our present life choices.The Opportunity for Growth Through Grief: While it might be hard to hear, especially during times of suffering, there is potential for growth through processing our grief effectively.Searching for Episodes by Loss Type: I encouraged my listeners to explore previous episodes categorized by types of loss, such as widowhood or parental loss, via the blog's search function.Rituals and Recovery Methods: I highlighted the importance of rituals and community support in grieving processes and suggested engaging in my "Do Grief Differently" program as a way forward.Unleashing Painful Emotions: I shared my own transformative experience where acknowledging all forms of grief led me to release intense emotions that had been pent up inside.If you've ever felt lost in your grieving process or know someone who does—remember my voice echoing softly amidst the noise: "Healing is possible. Your emotions are valid. And most importantly—you're never alone on this journey toward reclaiming your heart after loss."RESOURCES:Grief Recovery_______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!Dive into the depths of grief, joy, and the paradox of emotions with Yvonne Caputo on Grieving Voices this week. From personal tales to professional insights, learn how attentive listening can transform relationships and provide peace in life's transitions.Yvonne reflects on personally challenging life transitions that led her to therapy as she grappled with feelings of loss. Her journey emphasizes not just the grand losses but also those smaller ones that cumulatively shape our lives.Episode Highlights:The Paradox of Emotions: Yvonne talks about containing paradoxes—how we can experience joy in sorrow, teaching us valuable lessons about mental health and resilience. Storytelling & Healing: Listen to how conversations with her father about his WWII experiences helped unearth latent PTSD and transformed their relationship by simply offering an attentive ear.End-of-Life Wishes: Discover why discussing end-of-life preferences is crucial as Caputo recounts honoring her father's wishes for a peaceful passing versus the traumatic hospital death of her mother without known wishes.Therapeutic Practices: Learn from Caputo’s approach to providing comfort in therapy—validating experiences without judgment—and its impact on elderly individuals in caregiving settings.From dealing with personal loss to facilitating meaningful dialogues around mortality, this episode is a testament to the healing power of being heard. RESOURCES:Book | Flying with DadBook | Dying with Dadfivewishes.orgGrief RecoveryBook by Annie Sklaver Orenstein | Support the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!In this second heartfelt episode of Grieving Voices Season 5, I welcomed Dawn Michele Jackson, a multifaceted healer specializing in grief recovery. Dawn shares her personal journey through divorce and how it led her to the path of healing not just herself but others as well. With a background in nursing and now a self-published author, she discusses the importance of finding one's inner light post-trauma and transforming from merely surviving to thriving.Dawn emphasizes that grief is more than just about death; it encompasses all forms of loss, including divorce, which was a significant turning point for her. She candidly speaks about the initial devastation following her separation at age 30 with a 3 1/2-year-old in tow and how choosing to heal allowed her to rediscover herself beyond being a mom, nurse, and wife.This conversation delves into the complexities of co-parenting after divorce, particularly when shared children are involved. Dawn reflects on how adopting the Grief Recovery Method helped transform resentment into gratitude towards her ex-husband—ultimately leading to peaceful relations.If you are new to grieving concepts, you will find value in Dawn’s explanation of cumulative grief and its negative impacts on life if left unaddressed. She advocates for using tools like the Grief Recovery Method as an evidence-based means for achieving emotional liberation from past hurts.Adding depth to our discussion, we explore how parental influences shape our perceptions around marriage stability and coping with familial changes during adulthood.Lastly, drawing parallels between professional burnout in healthcare settings due to emotional strain versus physical ailments among patients leads Dawn down memory lane—from leaving nursing after 30 years toward embracing full-time work with clients seeking solace from their own grief journeys.Key takeaways include:The universality of grief beyond death-related lossesPersonal growth through adversityThe transformative power of healing modalities like the Grief Recovery MethodEncouragement for listeners facing similar challengesInspiration derived from making bold life choices aligned with personal valuesThis episode serves as both an inspiration for those grappling with loss and guidance on accessing tools necessary for genuine recovery.RESOURCES:WebsiteBooksCONNECT:FacebookYouTubeLinkedIn_______NEED HELP?NSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.

Send Victoria a text message!In this momentous 200th episode of Grieving Voices, I pause to honor the journey thus far. From heartfelt stories of loss to triumphs in resilience, this podcast has become a beacon for those navigating grief's complex landscape. Join me as I delve into reflections on societal norms around grief, personal growth through storytelling, and gratitude for the community that has been built.Highlights from today’s solo episode include:A reflection on how Grieving Voices evolved into a top global podcast.The importance of sharing episodes with others who may find solace in them.An exploration of human design and how it influenced the creation and continuation of the podcast.Insights into why consistency matters when creating content that serves a greater purpose.Lessons learned from interviewing diverse guests with powerful transformation stories.I also look ahead at what’s coming in season 5:Anticipated deep dives into energy healing as support for grievers.Introducing listeners to new resources and modalities perhaps unfamiliar to many.Let us continue changing how society perceives grief—one share, one story at a time. Because here at Grieving Voices—it’s not about speaking louder but speaking truer—and always alongside each other.RESOURCES:Human DesignEp. 67 Marty Cooper Ep. 40 Chris Kerr Ep. 71 Kristine Carlson Ep. 186 Kris Carr _______NEED HELP?National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis CounselorIf you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.CONNECT WITH VICTORIA: InstagramWebsiteLinkedInFacebookSupport the showThis episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief. Would you like to join the mission of Grieving Voices in normalizing grief and supporting hurting hearts everywhere? Become a supporter of the show HERE.