Teresa & Wayna | What to Say (and NOT Say) to Someone Who’s Grieving ( Episode 69)

Grief doesn’t need perfect words—it needs real presence.In Episode 69 of Female Voices, hosts Teresa Reiniger and Wayna Berry dive into one of the most uncomfortable yet universal human experiences: how to support someone who is grieving.Most people don’t avoid grieving loved ones because they don’t care—they avoid them because they don’t know what to say. In this honest and heartfelt conversation, Teresa and Wayna break down the common phrases that often do more harm than good, and offer compassionate, practical ways to show up meaningfully—even when you feel unsure.Wayna shares deeply personal experiences of losing her son, offering real-life insight into what actually helped during her most difficult moments—and what didn’t. Together, they remind us that grief isn’t something to fix—it’s something to witness.This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to support others better, navigate grief conversations with care, or simply understand the power of presence.About the HostsTeresa Reiniger is a grief and emotional healing expert who supports women through life transitions with compassion and clarity.Wayna Berry is a transformational coach and speaker who brings lived experience, authenticity, and deep empathy to conversations around grief, loss, and healing.💬 Memorable Quotes● Teresa Reiniger: “Grief isn’t something that can be solved with the right sentence—it’s something that needs to be witnessed.”● Wayna Berry: “People don’t avoid grieving individuals because they don’t care—they avoid them because they don’t know what to say.”● Wayna Berry: “Silence can feel incredibly isolating… like people disappeared right when you needed them most.”● Teresa Reiniger: “When we focus too much on the words, we miss the connection.”● Wayna Berry: “Grief is so deeply personal—even shared loss is never the same experience.”● Teresa Reiniger: “You don’t have to have the perfect words. Grief requires presence, not perfection.”● Wayna Berry: “Your willingness to show up, even imperfectly, can make all the difference.”● Teresa Reiniger: “People may not remember what you said—but they’ll remember that you were there.”🔍 Topics Discussed● Why people struggle to talk to someone who is grieving● Common phrases that unintentionally minimize grief (“at least…”, “everything happens for a reason”)● Why grief cannot—and should not—be “fixed”● The emotional and physical toll of grief (including brain fog and overwhelm)● The power of presence vs. saying the “right” thing● Practical ways to offer real, tangible support● Why support often fades—and why continued check-ins matter● The importance of acknowledging the person who was lost✨ Key Takeaways● You don’t need perfect words—your presence matters more than anything you say● Avoid minimizing statements, even if they come from a good place● Grief is deeply personal—never assume you understand someone’s experience● Specific support (meals, errands, time together) is more helpful than vague offers● Grief doesn’t follow a timeline—keep showing up even after others stop🙌 Shoutout & Mention● Balcom Funeral Home – for supporting families with children’s funeral services💡 Helpful Resources / Listener Reflection● Ask yourself: “Am I trying to fix this—or simply be present?”● Save 2–3 supportive phrases from this episode to use when needed● Set reminders to check in on someone weeks or months after a loss● Remember: showing up imperfectly is better than not showing up at all💖 JOIN THE CONVERSATION📩 Email: [email protected]📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/femalevoiceslifeandloss/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/femalevoiceslifelosspodcast/🎵 TikTok: @femalevoiceslifeloss🔔 Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more women feel seen, supported, and less alone.