The Space Between: Holding Space While Finding Present Wonder

In this heartfelt episode, Chris reflects on his recent trip to New York City with his 4-year-old daughter over Thanksgiving week, which coincided with six months since the passing of his wife Blythe. He explores the profound realization of the importance of being present - both through experiencing moments of pure joy with his daughter and navigating the complex emotions of grief. Through personal stories from their Broadway shows, the Rockettes, and walks through Manhattan, Chris shares how he simultaneously learned to hold space for grief and wonder. He discusses the challenges of staying present as a single parent while processing loss and how his daughter's genuine reactions helped him understand presence tangibly. Key themes include: ​Finding balance between honoring grief while remaining open to joy ​Learning to be present through a child's eyes ​The impact of presence vs absence in parenting ​How past frustrations can overshadow present moments ​Creating safe spaces for emotional expression Disclaimer: Chris speaks from personal experience and is not a mental health professional. This podcast represents his journey through grief, parenting, and personal growth. While he shares openly about these topics, his experiences should not be taken as professional advice. If you are struggling with grief or mental health challenges, please seek appropriate professional help. The episode offers authentic, unedited reflections, including emotional moments and personal vulnerabilities. Some content may be triggering for those dealing with loss or grief.