Cole Imperi | Non-Clinical Approach to Grieving

Cole Imperi, a clinically trained chaplain and thanatologist joins host Lisa Keefauver to explore the multifaceted nature of grief. They explore the importance of grief literacy, the role of community support, and the cultural perspectives that shape our understanding of loss. Cole shares her experiences working with incarcerated individuals and discusses the concept of shadow losses, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in grief. The conversation highlights the significance of rituals, vulnerability, and the importance of building supportive communities for those navigating grief.  MORE ABOUT GUESTCole Imperi is a thanatologist, author, and researcher whose work focuses on the use of non-clinical tools in support of those experiencing loss and grief. She is the author of "A Guide to Grief" published by Kids Can Press for ages 10-14 and has a second book about grief for adults coming in 2026 from Penguin. Visit www.coleimperi.com to learn more about her work. KEY TAKEAWAYS09:49 Grief in the Prison System18:09 Themes of Loss and Home24:42 Cultural Perceptions of Grief33:05 Vulnerability of Grievers38:53 Cultural Influences on Grieving Practices49:11 Building Community in New Environments55:09 Writing for Grief Literacy in Teens01:04:18 Understanding Thanatology and Its Cultural Context ABOUT THE SHOW & HOSTLisa Keefauver is a social worker, widow, and grief activist on a mission to reimagine the narratives of grief, one conversation at a time.Learn more at www.lisakeefauver.com.Listen to Grief is a Sneaky Bitch Podcast - Available on all podcast platforms.Read Grief is a Sneaky Bitch: An Uncensored Guide to Navigating Loss. Available in bookstores and on your favorite online booksellers, including Bookshop.Org. Also available as an audiobook.Watch her TEDx talk, Why Knowing More About Grief Can Make it Suck Less hereSubscribe AFGO with Lisa Keefauver on Substack hereFollow @lisakeefauvermsw on Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.