When the Story Becomes Yours: John DeDakis on Grief, Truth, and Hope

John DeDakis spent his life as a journalist, telling other people’s stories with clarity and truth. But nothing could prepare him for the stories he would one day have to live for himself. In this episode of Change Happened, Then What?, John shares his deeply personal journey of losing his sister to suicide and decades later, losing his son to a heroin overdose. Through unimaginable loss, John reveals how grief changes over time, what it means to face truth when it becomes your own, and how hope can still exist alongside heartbreak. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, perspective, and the reality that there is no one “right” way to grieve. If you’ve ever experienced loss or are trying to understand it this episode will stay with you. Resources -                                    Connect With John - Crisis Hotline - 988 John DeDakis's Books Mental Health Resources Connect with John on Instagram The Help Hub Connect with John on YouTube       If you'd like to support the show, just click the link | Be a part of the Change Happened community Enter to win the "What Changed Me Community Challenge" | Enter to Win! To join our mailing list and learn more our guests visit | Changehappenedpodcast.com Get your discount on Pure Energy Apothecary products | 20% off PURE ENERGY NOW Start your Liminal Luna Journey FREE | code CHANGE at checkout | Liminalluna.com Looking for your customized Dear Sweet One lullaby find them here | Shop Now Dear Sweet One Follow along on Instagram @Change Happened  Got a story to share? Drop me a line at [email protected] and maybe your "Change Happened" moment will be next.