Grief Is Not A Dirty Word

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: People navigating suicide loss, childhood grief, traumatic loss, complicated grief, mental health struggles, depression, anxiety and anyone trying to better understand the long-term impact of losing a parent or loved one to suicide.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: An honest conversation about grief, suicide stigma, mental health awareness, childhood trauma, healing after loss and how vulnerability and open conversations can help people feel less isolated in their grief journey.DESCRIPTION:In this deeply emotional episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, host Nick Gaylord sits down with author, mental health advocate and suicide loss survivor Lisa Sugarman for a powerful conversation about grief, trauma and the lifelong impact of losing a parent to suicide. Lisa shares the heartbreaking story of losing her father at just 10 years old, believing for 35 years that he died of a heart attack before learning the truth about his suicide later in life. Together, Nick and Lisa explore childhood grief, mental health stigma, suicide loss, survivor guilt, depression and the silence that so often surrounds traumatic loss. Lisa opens up about how that revelation reshaped her understanding of grief, mental illness and her father himself. The conversation also highlights the importance of vulnerability, emotional honesty and creating safe spaces for people to talk openly about grief and mental health. Lisa discusses her work with The Trevor Project, her platform The Help Hub and her podcast The Survivors Podcast, all focused on supporting people through trauma, crisis and loss. This episode is a raw and compassionate reminder that grief does not disappear when ignored and that nobody should have to suffer in silence. This episode answers: How does losing a parent to suicide affect a child later in life?  What happens when you discover the truth about a loved one’s suicide decades later?  How can people better support someone grieving a suicide loss?  Why is suicide still so stigmatized in grief conversations?  What are the long-term mental health effects of unresolved grief and trauma? Key Takeaways: Silence and avoidance can deepen grief and emotional isolation.  Suicide loss survivors often carry complex layers of grief, anger, guilt and confusion.  Honest conversations about mental health and grief create safer spaces for healing.  Vulnerability helps normalize difficult conversations around suicide and depression.  Grief cannot simply be ignored or “gotten over” without emotional consequences.Go to Lisa's EPISODE page on www.griefisnotadirtyword.com for all of her links.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief tied to identity loss, fractured relationships, or societal division.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: A powerful perspective on grief, uncertainty, and emotional conflict beyond death.DESCRIPTION:This episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word explores a different kind of grief—one rooted in division, identity loss, and uncertainty. Nick Gaylord sits down with Mark Davis to unpack how grief shows up when trust erodes, relationships fracture, and the world feels unstable. Together, they examine the emotional toll of speaking up, the personal cost of conflict, and the grief that comes from losing a sense of safety and belonging. Mark shares his journey from a middle-class upbringing to stepping into a public role, revealing how loss shaped his perspective long before politics entered the picture. This conversation goes beyond headlines, focusing instead on human experience, emotional resilience, and the unseen grief many people carry today. It’s a raw look at what happens when personal values collide with the world around you. If you’ve felt disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure of where you stand, this episode will resonate deeply.This episode answers: Why does political division feel like grief and emotional loss?  How do you handle losing relationships over beliefs or values?  What are people grieving right now beyond death and loss?  How do you speak up when it costs you personally and emotionally?  Can a divided society heal from identity loss and fractured trust? Key Takeaways: Grief isn’t limited to death—it includes loss of identity, trust, and stability  Division creates emotional distance that mirrors personal grief  Speaking up often comes with real personal and relational consequences  Financial stress and uncertainty are major sources of modern grief  Healing begins with recognizing shared humanity beneath disagreementSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Grieving parents, anyone navigating child loss, and those supporting someone through deep grief and trauma.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Honest insight into grief processing, how to show up for someone in loss, and how to break the silence around death and healing.DESCRIPTION:In this powerful episode, Nick Gaylord sits down with Kelly Edmondson to explore the unimaginable grief of losing her son, Darius, to sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Kelly shares the raw reality of child loss, the shock of sudden death, and the emotional aftermath that reshapes identity and life itself. Together, they unpack why silence around grief is more damaging than grief itself and how honest conversation creates space for healing. Kelly opens up about the importance of speaking directly about death, the role of support systems, and what grieving people truly need. The conversation also dives into societal discomfort around loss, the failure of traditional bereavement norms, and the long-term impact of unprocessed grief. Nick guides the discussion with empathy and clarity, reinforcing the mission of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word. This episode is both a tribute to Darius and a roadmap for navigating grief with honesty, connection, and courage.This episode answers: How do you cope with the sudden loss of a child?  What should you say to someone who is grieving a major loss?  Why is silence harmful in the grieving process?  How can you support someone dealing with child loss and trauma?  What does healthy grief processing actually look like over time? Key Takeaways: Grief is not the problem—silence is what isolates and damages healing.  Saying the words “dead” and “died” helps process reality, not avoid it.  Support matters more than perfection—showing up is everything.  Unprocessed grief can manifest as physical, emotional, and mental health issues.  There is no timeline for grief, and traditional expectations often fail grieving people.Website / Businesshttps://thetimelypresence.com https://www.thememorybox.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-edmondsonInstagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/the.kellyedmondsonInstagram (Business): https://www.instagram.com/thetimelypresenceFacebook (Business): https://www.facebook.com/TimelyPresenceSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating sudden loss, widow grief, or traumatic death without closureWHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Real insight into grief processing, trauma recovery, and rebuilding life after lossDESCRIPTION: Nick Gaylord sits down with Lynn Stone for a deeply personal conversation about sudden loss, widow grief, and life after unexpected death. Lynn shares the moment everything changed when her husband Brian passed away overnight, and the shock, trauma, and grief that followed. Together, they unpack the realities of grief fog, parenting through loss, and the emotional aftermath that doesn’t end after the funeral. The conversation explores how people respond to grief, what helps, what hurts, and why most of us get it wrong. Lynn also opens up about PTSD, dating after loss, and the unexpected challenges that come with rebuilding life. Nick and Lynn challenge common grief clichés and offer real, practical ways to support someone in mourning. The episode closes with Lynn’s mission to help others prepare for death through planning, conversation, and awareness.This episode answers: What happens emotionally after sudden, unexpected loss of a spouse?  How do you cope with widow grief and trauma after sudden death?  What should you say or not say to someone who is grieving?  How do you help children process grief after losing a parent?  Why is death planning important and how do you start? Key Takeaways: Sudden loss creates trauma that extends far beyond the moment of death  Grief doesn’t end after the funeral, it evolves over time  Most people unintentionally say the wrong things to those grieving  Consistent support after the first few weeks matters most  Planning for death reduces chaos and emotional burden for loved onesCONTACT LYNN:Website:  www.authorlynnbstone.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/authorlynnbstoneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorlynnbstone/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorlynnbstone/BOOK:‘Til Death Do Us Part: A Practical Guide to Preparing for the Inevitable:  https://a.co/d/9dSBzjRPRODUCTS:Single Point of Failure Vulnerability Risk Assessment (FREE): https://forms.gle/z7KLWkugrKK4hJPb9Resistant Conversation Toolkit: www.authorlynnbstone.com/storePODCAST:The Flip Side of DeathSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief, addiction recovery, trauma, or struggling with identity and self-worth.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: A powerful, honest look at grief, sobriety, healing, and what it takes to rebuild your life.DESCRIPTION: In this deeply personal episode, Nick Gaylord sits down with Faith C to explore the intersection of grief, addiction, trauma, and recovery. Faith shares her journey through alcoholism, emotional sobriety, and the long process of rebuilding identity and self-worth. Together, they unpack the hidden grief behind addiction, including loss of self, connection, and trust. Faith opens up about childhood emotional abuse, food addiction, and the pressure of perfectionism. This conversation goes beyond sobriety and into the ongoing work of healing and self-acceptance. Nick guides the discussion with depth and clarity, creating space for real, human moments. This episode is a powerful reminder that recovery is not about perfection, but about staying present and continuing the work. If you are navigating grief, trauma, or addiction, this conversation will meet you where you are.This episode answers: What does grief look like in addiction recovery?  Can you heal trauma and addiction at the same time?  Why do people in recovery still struggle with identity and self-worth?  How does childhood trauma impact addiction and grief later in life?  What actually changes after getting sober and what doesn’t? Key Takeaways: Sobriety removes the substance, but healing the underlying grief takes ongoing work  Addiction is often rooted in a deep need for connection and validation  Emotional sobriety is just as important as physical sobriety  Trauma and grief can resurface in recovery and require intentional healing  Self-worth grows through honesty, connection, and consistent inner workSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS:Anyone navigating grief, trauma, ambiguous loss, missing persons cases, complicated family relationships, or the long and uneven process of healing after loss. WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief, trauma, ambiguous loss, missing persons cases, complicated family relationships, or the long and uneven process of healing after loss. DESCRIPTION:In this special episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, Nick Gaylord joins Michael and Alyssa McFarland of Tragedy - A True Crime Podcast for a deeply personal conversation about grief, trauma, healing, and the realities of loss. Nick shares the story behind starting his podcast after the death of his father, the anger and unresolved grief that followed, and how therapy helped him process it all. He also explains why he rebranded from Our Dead Dads to Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, expanding the conversation beyond death into all forms of grief and loss.The discussion goes deeper into missing persons cases and ambiguous loss, including the ongoing case of Nancy Guthrie, highlighting the emotional toll on families living without answers. Together, they explore how grief shows up differently for everyone, why some people withdraw instead of speaking publicly, and how to support those navigating trauma and uncertainty.Nick also shares insights from his work with Gabby Petito’s parents and the Gabby Petito Foundation, reinforcing the importance of awareness, compassion, and continuing to speak the names of those who are missing or gone. This episode is about grief support, mental health, and creating space for honest, meaningful conversations.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief, loss, emotional healing, or feeling alone in their grief journeyWHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Honest reflections on grief, healing, connection, and what it means to live with loss over timeDESCRIPTION:In this milestone episode, Nick Gaylord steps away from the traditional interview format to reflect on the grief conversations, emotional healing, and human connection that have shaped Grief Is Not A Dirty Word. After 75 episodes, Nick shares what he has learned about grief, loss, and the many forms it takes beyond death, including identity shifts, relationship loss, and the “long goodbye.” He speaks directly to listeners about the power of being seen, heard, and understood in grief, and how sharing stories creates connection and healing. Nick also reflects on the evolution from Our Dead Dads to a broader grief-focused mission, emphasizing that grief is universal and deeply human. He highlights the impact of listeners, guests, and real-life connections that have grown from the podcast. This episode reinforces that grief does not follow rules, timelines, or expectations, and that people need space, not solutions. It is both a thank you and a call to continue the conversation around grief, healing, and emotional truth.This episode answers: What does grief really look like beyond death and loss?  How do you cope with grief that doesn’t follow a timeline?  Why do people feel alone in grief, and how can that change?  What happens when you allow yourself to talk openly about grief?  How can sharing grief stories help with healing and connection? Key Takeaways: Grief exists in many forms beyond death, including identity, relationships, and life changes  Healing begins when people feel seen, heard, and understood  There is no timeline or “right way” to process grief  Connection and conversation are powerful tools in navigating loss  Sharing your story can create impact far beyond what you expect Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief, regret after loss, or the fear of losing family memories. Listeners who want to strengthen family connection and preserve the stories of parents, grandparents, and loved ones before they are gone.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: A powerful conversation about grief, legacy, and the healing power of intentional storytelling. Author Jeffrey Mason explains how capturing family stories can reduce regret, deepen relationships, and help families process grief long before loss arrives.DESCRIPTION:Nick Gaylord sits down with bestselling author Jeffrey Mason, creator of the Hear Your Story guided journals, to explore how storytelling can transform grief, family connection, and legacy. Jeffrey shares how his father’s battle with Alzheimer’s inspired him to start writing questions that eventually became a global series of journals helping families preserve memories before they disappear. Together, Nick and Jeffrey talk about grief, regret, forgiveness, and the painful realization that many people wait too long to ask the important questions. They also explore the emotional difference between telling stories and sharing them, and why that distinction matters when we’re trying to understand the people we love. The conversation moves through generational trauma, personal healing, and the importance of perspective when reflecting on parents and family history. Nick shares his own grief journey after losing his father and how reframing the past changed the way he understood his relationship with him. This episode is ultimately about preserving life stories before they are lost and creating deeper human connection in a world that often feels disconnected. It’s a powerful reminder that the most meaningful legacy we leave behind may simply be our stories.THIS EPISODE ANSWERS: • How can storytelling help with grief and healing after losing a parent? • Why do people feel regret after a loved one dies and how can we prevent it? • What questions should we ask our parents before it’s too late? • How can sharing family stories strengthen relationships and emotional connection? • Why does preserving memories matter for future generations?KEY TAKEAWAYS: • Grief often becomes heavier when regret is mixed with loss. • Capturing family stories helps reduce future regret and strengthens connection now. • Understanding the full life story of a parent can transform how we process grief. • Intentional storytelling creates meaningful legacy for future generations. • Connection grows when people move beyond surface conversations and share real life experiences.JEFFREY MASON — LINKS & CONTACT INFOWEBSITE: • Hear Your Story Books:   https://hearyourstorybooks.com SOCIAL MEDIA• Instagram:   Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING AND NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE, CALL OR TEXT 988 (SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINE) ANYWHERE IN THE UNITED STATES, US TERRITORIES AND CANADAWHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: People struggling with grief, depression, suicidal thoughts, or anyone searching for an authentic path to healing after loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: An honest conversation about grief recovery, mental health, faith, therapy, and how people can begin untangling grief in their own way.DESCRIPTION: In this powerful episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, Nick Gaylord speaks with author, poet, and grief advocate Keya McClain about her journey through profound loss, depression, and multiple suicide attempts. After losing the uncle she considered her father at nineteen, Keya struggled for decades to find healing. When traditional grief advice and religious expectations failed to help, she began searching for a more authentic path forward. Through therapy, journaling, walking, and deep self-reflection, she discovered that grief does not follow stages and healing cannot be forced. Together, Nick and Keya explore grief myths, mental health, spiritual identity, and the courage required to rebuild a life after loss. Their conversation is both deeply honest and unexpectedly hopeful for anyone navigating grief.THIS EPISODE ANSWERS• Why do common grief phrases like “they’re in a better place” sometimes hurt more than help? • What happens when traditional grief advice or religious support doesn’t help you heal? • Can therapy, journaling, and nature actually help untangle long-term grief and depression? • Why do the “five stages of grief” fail many people who are grieving deeply? • How can someone begin healing after years of suicidal thoughts and emotional pain?KEY TAKEAWAYS• Grief does not follow stages and healing is rarely linear. • Well-intentioned grief advice can sometimes invalidate real emotional pain. • Authentic healing often begins when people reconnect with themselves. • Simple practices like journaling and walking can create powerful emotional breakthroughs. • People struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts are not alone and help exists.CONTACT KEYA! (Links below)Website / Work With Keya / Coaching: https://keyascoaching.com Book – Untangling Grief: Unraveling the Emotions of Loss https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F59KYZZHInstagram (Primary Account)https://www.instagram.com/hardcorehealingpencoachInstagram (Poetry / Writing)https://www.instagram.com/cigarchroniclespoetPodcast – The Healing Poetic Podcast Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief after the death of a spouse, coping with cancer loss, widowhood, or searching for resilience during bereavement.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: A powerful perspective on grief recovery, emotional resilience, rebuilding life after loss, and how love and healing can coexist with memory.DESCRIPTION:In this deeply moving episode, Nick sits down with Barnaby Howarth to explore love, grief, widowhood, and the resilience that emerges after devastating loss. Barnaby shares the story of his first wife, Angela, whose life was cut short by cancer just over a year into their marriage, and reflects on how grief shaped his understanding of strength, identity, and purpose. Together, they discuss anticipatory grief, emotional complexity, pride within bereavement, and what it means to celebrate a life while mourning a death. Barnaby speaks candidly about what did not help during his grieving process, the dangers of searching for a mythical answer to pain, and how true resilience comes from within. Nick guides the conversation toward rebuilding life after spousal loss, including finding new love without replacing the past. This episode offers insight into healing after loss, honoring memory, and discovering that grief and joy can coexist.This episode answers:How do you cope with the death of a spouse at a young age?What does healthy grief look like after losing a partner to cancer?Is it normal to feel pride or gratitude during bereavement?How can you rebuild your life after widowhood without guilt?Can you fall in love again after losing your spouse?Key Takeaways:Grief and pride can coexist when you deeply honor a life lived.Resilience is not something you find externally; it already exists within you.Healing after spousal loss does not require replacing the person you lost.Small daily acts of kindness build emotional strength over time.Love after grief can honor the past while embracing the present.BARNABY HOWARTH — LINKS & CONTACT INFOPODCAST & MAIN SITE• Everyday Greatness Podcast:  https://barnabyhowarth.com.au/SOCIAL MEDIA• Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/barnabyhowarth/ • LinkedIn:  https://au.linkedin.com/in/barnaby-howarth • Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/barnabyhowarth.au/TO BOOK BARNABY (AS A SPEAKER)• Main contact:   https://barnabyhowarth.com.au/book-now/ Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

TERRAINE LEBEAU — LINKS & CONTACT INFOPODCAST & MAIN SITE • Behind the Shades Podcast: https://behindtheshades.com/HOST PAGE / GUEST PROFILE • Terraine LeBeau on BTS: https://behindtheshades.com/terraine-lebeau/SOCIAL MEDIA • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terrainelebeau/ • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@terrainelebeau/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terrainelebeau/EMAIL • Main contact: [email protected] THIS EPISODE HELPS: Men navigating grief, identity loss, anticipatory grief, or unresolved emotional pain who feel pressure to stay strong and silent.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: An honest conversation about reframing grief, emotional vulnerability, masculine identity, legacy, and how to move forward without abandoning who you are.DESCRIPTION:In this powerful episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, Nick Gaylord sits down with Terraine LeBeau, host of Behind the Shades, to explore grief beyond death. Terraine shares the profound loss of his grandmother, Iris Reed, the woman who raised him, and how her passing reshaped his identity. Together, Nick and Terraine unpack anticipatory grief, identity loss, and the emotional isolation many men experience in silence. They challenge the myth of “strong like bull” masculinity and examine why men often internalize grief instead of expressing it. The conversation moves through rage, vulnerability, legacy, and the cultural training that teaches men to fix rather than feel. Terraine also shares how his personal grief collided with his professional tools as a coach and podcaster. This episode is an invitation to stop thinking your way through grief and start feeling your way forward.This episode answers:Why do men struggle to express grief and emotional pain?What is identity loss in grief and how does it affect men?How does anticipatory grief impact mental health?Why doesn’t “staying strong” actually help with grief?How can men reframe grief instead of suppressing it?Key Takeaways:Grief is not limited to death; identity loss and unrealized futures create profound emotional pain.Suppressed grief often shows up as anger, isolation, addiction, or aggression.Men are culturally trained to fix problems instead of feel emotions, which complicates healing.Vulnerability is not weakness; it is emotional courage.Legacy building and intentional community can transform grief into purpose.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 71 - Paul Rubin (Director of Camp Good Mourning)CAMP GOOD MOURNING INFORMATION:WEBSITE: https://www.campgoodmourning.orgE-MAIL:  [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/CampGoodMourningINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/campgoodmourningDONATIONS / SUPPORT: https://www.campgoodmourning.org/donateWHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone supporting grieving children navigating loss, death, and bereavement.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: A deeper understanding of how children experience grief, how to talk honestly about death, and how community-based support helps kids heal.DESCRIPTION:In this episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, host Nick Gaylord welcomes back Paul Rubin, founder and director of Camp Good Mourning, a Long Island–based children’s bereavement camp supporting kids ages 7–17 after the death of a parent, sibling, or loved one. Paul shares how children experience grief differently than adults and why movement, play, and honest language are essential to healing. Nick and Paul explore why avoiding conversations about death often causes more harm than good, especially for grieving children. They discuss the importance of memory, storytelling, and keeping loved ones’ names alive long after they die. The conversation also highlights how parents and caregivers can better support grieving children while caring for their own grief. This episode offers powerful insight into childhood grief, bereavement education, and why community changes everything.THIS EPISODE ANSWERS:How do children experience grief differently than adults?What is the right way to talk to children about death and loss?Why does avoiding grief conversations harm grieving kids?How does Camp Good Mourning help children heal through community?What can parents and educators do to better support grieving children?KEY TAKEAWAYS:Children grieve in waves and need outlets for emotional energyHonest language about death helps children feel safer and less confusedTalking about loved ones keeps connection alive and supports healingGrief support works best when children are not isolatedCaregivers must care for themselves to fully support grieving childrenSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 70 - Susie Delo returns!LINKS:Go to Susie's website HERE!Contact Susie HERE!Want to listen to Lauren Heaton's interview? Click HERE!Want to listen to Elissa Swihart's interview? Click HERE for part 1 and HERE for part 2!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS Anyone carrying unresolved grief, long-term trauma, shame, or emotional self-judgment who struggles to offer themselves compassion.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET A powerful, practical look at how grief healing deepens through self-forgiveness, reflection, and hearing your own story without judgment.DESCRIPTION: In this follow-up conversation, Nick Gaylord reconnects with Susie Delo after she listened back to her original Grief Is Not A Dirty Word interview for the first time. What she experienced surprised her: pride, compassion, and deep self-forgiveness for the woman telling the story — herself. Together, Nick and Susie explore how listening to your own voice can transform trauma, soften shame, and unlock grief healing at any stage of life. This episode dives into emotional self-compassion, forgiveness, and the power of reflection without blame. Susie shares why recording and listening to your own story can be a pivotal healing practice. The conversation also highlights community, safe connection, and why grief work must include caring for yourself first. This episode stands alone but builds powerfully on Susie’s original interview.This episode answers:How can listening to your own story help heal trauma and grief?Why is self-forgiveness so hard after trauma and loss?Can hearing your own voice change how you see your past?How do you stop judging yourself for what you survived?What role does reflection play in long-term grief healing?Key Takeaways:Self-forgiveness is essential for meaningful grief healingListening to your own recorded story can unlock deep emotional clarityTrauma survivors are often harsher on themselves than anyone elseHealing accelerates when shame is replaced with compassionYou cannot support others fully without caring for yourself firstSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 69 - Susie DeloCHECK OUT SUSIE'S WEBSITE!!Go to Susie's website by clicking HERE!Contact Susie by clicking HERE!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS People navigating childhood trauma, domestic violence, complex grief, and long-term emotional healing after abuse and loss. WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET A deeply honest conversation about grief, trauma, resilience, and how healing begins when someone finally feels that they matter.  DESCRIPTION: This episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word features trauma-informed peer coach and You Matter founder Susie Delo, who shares her powerful story of surviving childhood abuse, domestic violence, and profound grief. In conversation with host Nick Gaylord, Susie explores how unresolved childhood trauma and silenced grief shaped her relationships, identity, and sense of self-worth. She reflects on losing her brother as a child, growing up in poverty and addiction, and enduring emotional and physical abuse that followed her into adulthood. Susie also opens up about the death of her abusive husband and the complicated grief that followed, including blame, shame, and isolation. Through therapy, faith, and advocacy, she transformed trauma into purpose by creating You Matter to help others heal. This episode centers resilience, post-traumatic growth, and the life-changing impact of finally being seen and believed.  This episode answers: How does childhood trauma affect grief and adult relationships?What happens when grief is silenced or ignored for decades?How do survivors heal after domestic violence and emotional abuse?What is complicated grief after losing an abusive partner?How can trauma be transformed into healing and purpose?Key Takeaways: Unresolved childhood trauma deeply shapes grief responses later in lifeSilence around grief can create lifelong emotional damageSurvivors of domestic violence often carry shame that isn’t theirsHealing begins when people feel believed, supported, and valuedPurpose and advocacy can grow from even the most painful experiences Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 68 - Jacob KendallCONTACT JACOB:Personal website: https://www.jacobevanskendall.com/Business website: https://4Daging.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobevanskendall/WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: People navigating grief, caregiving, chronic illness, and anticipatory grief after the loss of a parentWHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: An honest, grounded conversation about grief, caregiving burnout, mortality, and finding meaning after lossDESCRIPTION:Nick Gaylord sits down with Jacob Kendall, a grief-informed advocate, health educator, and caregiver whose life has been shaped by chronic illness, anticipatory grief, and the sudden loss of his father. Jacob shares the deeply personal story of caregiving after his father suffered a stroke and heart attack shortly after Jacob’s wedding, and what it meant to lose him only months later. Together, Nick and Jacob explore how grief changes shape over time, why caregiving can be emotionally and physically exhausting, and how anticipatory grief complicates both loss and love. Jacob also opens up about living with a mechanical heart valve, confronting his own mortality, and managing anxiety born from repeated medical trauma. This conversation weaves together grief, health advocacy, and the importance of not carrying illness or loss alone. It is an honest reflection on grief, resilience, and how suffering can inform meaningful work without defining a life.THIS EPISODE ANSWERS:What does anticipatory grief feel like when illness changes everything?How does caregiving impact grief after a parent dies?Why doesn’t grief ever fully go away after losing a parent?How do chronic illness and mortality anxiety shape daily life?What helps caregivers avoid burnout while navigating grief?KEY TAKEAWAYS:Grief does not shrink, but people learn how to live alongside itCaregiving can deepen grief and exhaustion if done aloneAnticipatory grief creates complex emotions before loss occursChronic illness often brings hidden anxiety tied to mortalityTalking openly about grief and illness builds connection and healingSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS Listeners navigating grief, loss, emotional isolation, or anyone seeking honest grief conversations and a sense of connection. WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET Transparency about the podcast’s direction, reassurance during a brief pause, and insight into how grief-focused storytelling grows through community support.  DESCRIPTION: In this short update episode, Nick Gaylord, host of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, offers a transparent check-in with listeners. Nick explains why there is no interview release this week and shares what’s happening behind the scenes as he prepares for multiple speaking engagements. He reflects on the evolution of the podcast, the role of community support, and the importance of sustainable growth. Nick also reinforces the show’s mission to bring grief conversations into public space without shame or judgment. This episode serves as both a pause and a recommitment to the work ahead. Nick also references an evolving wish list of future guest conversations as part of a larger vision for expanding grief dialogue and invites listeners to help amplify the show through sharing and engagement.  THIS EPISODE ANSWERS: Why is there no interview episode this week?What support, sponsorships, and partnerships help a grief podcast grow sustainably?Why are public grief conversations still so important?How can listeners support a podcast focused on grief and loss?What direction is Grief Is Not A Dirty Word heading next? KEY TAKEAWAYS: Sustainable growth requires intention, preparation, and community support.Grief conversations belong in public spaces without shame or judgment.Listener engagement plays a meaningful role in shaping what comes next. Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 67 - Lauren HeatonWHO THIS EPISODE HELPS People living with grief, trauma, PTSD, sexual assault recovery, medical trauma, or pregnancy loss who feel unseen or misunderstood.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET An honest, grounded conversation about grief, trauma healing, boundaries, accountability, and rebuilding self-worth without shortcuts.DESCRIPTION:This episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word features licensed professional counselor and victims’ advocate Lauren Heaton in a powerful conversation about grief, trauma, and healing. Nick Gaylord and Lauren explore how sexual assault, PTSD, medical trauma, pregnancy loss, and chronic stress shape identity and survival. Lauren shares her lived experience alongside her clinical work, offering clarity without platitudes or false positivity. They discuss the responsibility that comes with healing, why empathy must be earned, and how boundaries protect recovery. This episode examines motherhood, bodily autonomy, and rebuilding safety after repeated trauma. It is a necessary conversation for anyone navigating grief while trying to move forward honestly.This episode answers:How do you heal from grief and trauma after sexual assault?What does PTSD recovery really look like in everyday life?How does medical trauma and pregnancy loss affect long-term grief?Why is accountability essential in trauma healing?How do boundaries support healing after prolonged trauma?Key Takeaways:Healing from trauma and grief requires honesty, not avoidancePTSD is a lived experience, not a clinical label aloneEmpathy grows through responsibility and self-workBoundaries are a form of self-protection, not punishmentGrief and trauma can coexist with purpose and meaning Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 66 - Scott StewartTO CONTACT SCOTT OR TO CHECK OUT HIS WORK, GO TO:www.scottstewartspeaking.comWHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: People navigating traumatic grief, complicated loss, family violence, or struggling with forgiveness after profound betrayal. WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: A grounded, real-world framework for understanding grief, trauma recovery, and forgiveness without minimizing pain or excusing harm.  DESCRIPTION: In this powerful Episode 66 of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, host Nick Gaylord sits down with speaker and author Scott Stewart, whose father murdered his mother when Scott was just 22 years old. Scott shares the harrowing story of growing up in an abusive household, the night that changed everything, and the long road through traumatic grief and complex loss. Together, Nick and Scott explore the true meaning of forgiveness—what it is, what it is not, and why it is essential for healing. This conversation unpacks grief after violence, generational trauma, therapy, faith, and the daily work of choosing release over resentment. Scott explains why forgiveness is not about letting someone off the hook, forgetting what happened, or reconciling with unsafe people. This episode offers honest insight, practical tools, and deep compassion for anyone carrying unresolved grief, anger, or trauma.  This episode answers: How do you forgive someone who committed murder?What does forgiveness really mean in grief and trauma recovery?Can you heal from violent loss without forgetting what happened?Why does unresolved grief turn into anger, bitterness, or resentment?How do you break cycles of abuse and generational trauma? Key Takeaways: Forgiveness is for the survivor, not the offenderForgiveness does not erase consequences or require reconciliationHealing grief requires feeling, not suppressing, painful emotionsForgiveness is often a repeated, intentional practice—not a one-time eventBreaking generational trauma starts with conscious healing work Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 65 - AJ ColemanPURCHASE AJ'S BOOK AT:https://keepthosefeetmoving.com/WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Listeners navigating widower grief, spousal loss, anticipatory grief, and the long-term emotional impact of traumatic loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Honest insight into grief resilience, parenting after loss, acceptance, healing, and how to move forward without forgetting.DESCRIPTION:In this deeply moving episode of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word, host Nick Gaylord sits down with author and widower AJ Coleman to explore grief, loss, resilience, and rebuilding life after the death of a spouse. AJ shares the powerful love story he shared with his wife Corey, her battle with aggressive brain cancer, and the profound grief that followed her death just sixteen months after their daughter was born. Together, Nick and AJ discuss widower grief, anticipatory grief, parenting through loss, and the emotional complexity of raising a child while grieving a partner. AJ opens up about caregiving, acceptance, identity after loss, and how grief reshapes—but does not define—who we become. He also shares the philosophy behind his book Keep Those Feet Moving, an eight-step guide to coping with grief and thriving against all odds. This conversation is a powerful reminder that grief is not a dirty word—and that healing is possible, even after unimaginable loss.This episode answers:How do you cope with grief after losing a spouse to cancer?What does widower grief look like while raising a young child alone?How can grief become a catalyst for resilience and personal growth?How do you honor a loved one’s legacy while continuing to live fully?What helps people move from “why did this happen” to “where do I go now”?Key Takeaways:Grief is an experience you carry, not an identity that defines youAcceptance is a critical step in long-term healing after lossParenting through grief requires honesty, connection, and resiliencePurpose and meaning can emerge from profound personal tragedyMoving forward does not mean leaving love or memory behind Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 64 - Dave RobertsWHO THIS EPISODE HELPSAnyone navigating childhood grief, parental abandonment, complicated grief, or unresolved trauma.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GETA compassionate, grounded conversation about healing father-loss, understanding generational patterns, and building a renewed relationship with grief.DESCRIPTION:Dave Roberts returns to Grief Is Not A Dirty Word for a powerful, vulnerable conversation about growing up without his father and learning to make peace with decades of unresolved grief. Nick Gaylord guides the interview with care, exploring Dave’s early childhood trauma, emotional wounds, and the healing work that helped him understand his father’s absence. Dave speaks openly about forgiveness, ancestral patterns, spiritual insight, and the impact of supportive male figures who shaped his life. The conversation expands into grief education, emotional resilience, and the lifelong search for belonging. Nick and Dave also reflect on the importance of storytelling, connection, and giving people a safe space to process difficult emotions. This episode offers a grounded pathway toward compassion, healing, and reclaiming your own narrative after loss.This episode answers:What does childhood grief look like when a parent leaves without explanation?How do adults process abandonment years after the original loss?What role does forgiveness play in healing complicated grief?Why do generational patterns and ancestral trauma influence how families cope?How can someone rebuild emotional trust and identity after growing up without a parent?Key Takeaways:You did not cause a parent’s departure or the breakup of your family.Childhood grief often mirrors abandonment, fear, anger, and unmet emotional needs.Understanding generational patterns can bring clarity to a parent’s behavior.Forgiveness does not excuse harm — it frees you from carrying it.It is never too late to heal, seek support, and rewrite your emotional story. Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 63 - Dan AdamsCHECK OUT DAN'S WEBSITE:https://brokenyellowline.com/homeWHO THIS EPISODE HELPSAnyone navigating grief, divorce, family trauma, identity loss, or major life transitions.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GETPowerful insight into grief recovery, emotional rebuilding, personal resilience, and reclaiming identity after life-altering loss.DESCRIPTION:Dan Adams shares an emotional, unfiltered look at the four-month stretch that turned his entire life upside down—losing his mother, facing painful revelations about his father, and watching a 24-year marriage come to an end in rapid succession. Nick guides Dan through the grief, trauma, and identity collapse that followed, exploring the emotional fallout and the long, honest road back to himself. Dan talks about the loneliness of grief, the shock of divorce at midlife, and the disorientation of becoming an empty nester in the same season. Together, they explore how rebuilding happens piece by piece—through truth, community, vulnerability, music, and connection. Dan explains how hearing others’ stories helped him feel less alone and how sharing his own creates healing for others as well. This episode is a raw, inspiring look at grief, resilience, and the courage to rise when everything falls apart.THIS EPISODE ANSWERS:What does grief look like when multiple losses hit at the same time?How do you rebuild your identity after divorce, parental loss, and family trauma?How do midlife transitions and empty nest grief impact emotional wellbeing?Why does hearing other people’s grief stories reduce isolation and shame?What helps someone recover when life radically changes in just a few months?KEY TAKEAWAYS:Grief doesn’t only come from death—it also comes from truth, identity, and family shifts.Multiple losses in quick succession can dismantle a person’s emotional foundation.Rebuilding requires honesty, community, vulnerability, and support from others.Sharing stories normalizes grief and helps people feel less alone in their pain.Healing is possible even after the most disorienting seasons of life. Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 62 (Part 2) - Elissa SwihartTO HELP SUPPORT TALA'S CLOSET, CLICK HERE:https://bit.ly/m/thedvsurvivorsisterhood?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bioTO LISTEN TO DISMISSED TRUE STORIES PODCAST, CLICK HERE:https://open.spotify.com/show/3sp42T4Tr0NaPas6Q8nQ27WHO THIS EPISODE HELPSSurvivors navigating trauma, grief, domestic violence, and post-separation challenges.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GETA deeper understanding of how grief, healing, triggers, and survivorship continue years after abuse—and how purpose and community transform the recovery journey.DESCRIPTION:In this powerful conversation, Nick guides Elissa through the second half of her story—a deeply human look at what long-term healing from domestic violence really feels like. Elissa opens up about triggers that still appear years later, how grief intersects with trauma, and why survivorship is an ongoing process of unlearning and rebuilding. She shares the emotional and spiritual turning points that led her into advocacy and the extraordinary, grief-anchored moment that connected her to Tala, the young woman whose legacy inspired Tala’s Closet. Nick and Elissa also discuss the impact of post-separation abuse, the realities of healing while co-parenting, and the courage required to reclaim your identity after trauma. The conversation expands into community, purpose, grief education, and the life-changing ripple effect Elissa now creates for survivors everywhere. This episode is both a testament to the power of healing and an invitation to believe that rock bottom is not the end of your story.  Elissa interview - transcript -…This episode answers:What does long-term healing from domestic violence and trauma actually look like?Why do triggers and flashbacks appear years after leaving an abusive relationship?How does grief show up in survivors long after the abuse ends?What is Tala’s Closet, and how does it support survivors starting over?How can someone still in an abusive relationship recognize the moment they’re ready to leave?Key Takeaways:Survivorship is an ongoing grief-infused process of unlearning fear and rediscovering identity.Triggers often surface unexpectedly, even in healthy relationships, and do not signal failure.Post-separation abuse, legal abuse, and co-parenting challenges extend trauma long after leaving.Tala’s Closet grew from grief, purpose, community, and Elissa’s commitment to honoring a life lost to domestic violence.Rock bottom is not permanent—healing begins when survivors reclaim self-trust, anger, and agency. Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 62 (Part 1) - Elissa SwihartTO HELP SUPPORT TALA'S CLOSET, CLICK HERE:https://bit.ly/m/thedvsurvivorsisterhood?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bioTO LISTEN TO DISMISSED TRUE STORIES PODCAST, CLICK HERE:https://open.spotify.com/show/3sp42T4Tr0NaPas6Q8nQ27WHO THIS EPISODE HELPSSurvivors of domestic violence, people navigating trauma, and anyone grieving the loss of identity, safety, or self-worth.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GETA deeply honest look at surviving abuse, understanding trauma bonding, rebuilding identity, and finding hope after profound emotional grief.DESCRIPTION:In this powerful episode, Nick Gaylord sits down with Elissa Swihart to unpack the hidden emotional cost of domestic violence, trauma, and identity loss. Elissa shares how her abusive relationship began, the isolation that followed, and the brutal erosion of her confidence, voice, and sense of self. She describes the moment she realized she had become a shell of the person she once was—and the day she finally escaped with her son, her dog, and a single laundry basket of clothes. Nick guides the conversation through the grief that survivors carry long after leaving: grief for the life they imagined, grief for the version of themselves they lost, and grief for the safety they never had. Elissa’s story is raw, grounding, and rooted in truth, offering survivors and supporters a roadmap toward healing, self-awareness, and reclaiming personal power. This episode opens the door to conversations many survivors have never been able to speak out loud, shining a light on emotional strength, community, and the long road out of darkness. Elissa interview - transcript -…This episode answers:What are the early warning signs of emotional abuse that most people miss?Why do so many survivors stay, return, or feel trapped in abusive relationships?How does identity loss show up during long-term domestic violence?What does the escape process really look like for survivors with children?How can survivors rebuild confidence, autonomy, and safety after trauma?Key Takeaways:Abuse often begins with love-bombing, isolation, and subtle emotional erosion.Survivors grieve the loss of identity, safety, and autonomy long before they can leave.Leaving an abusive relationship is rarely a single event—it's a repeated, dangerous cycle.Self-awareness is one of the most powerful tools a survivor gains after escaping.Healing requires support, community, and the reclamation of personal voice and power. Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Episode 61 - Heather LocklearWHO THIS EPISODE HELPS Anyone navigating grief, trauma, sudden loss, suicide loss, or unresolved emotional pain. WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET Tools, language, and emotional clarity to better understand grief, support others, and process layered loss. DESCRIPTION: In this powerful conversation, Nick sits down with Heather Locklear to unpack the deep emotional impact of family trauma, sudden loss, and lifelong grief. Heather reflects on learning about suicide at a young age, and how early exposure to death shaped her identity and emotional patterns. She discusses the heartbreaking losses within her family, the grief of watching her daughter struggle, and the complicated terrain of animal loss and anticipatory grief. Together, Nick and Heather explore the generational weight of unspoken pain, the need for grief education, and the reality of healing when multiple losses collide. The episode also examines how sleep, avoidance, and self-protection can become coping mechanisms. Through honesty, humor, and vulnerability, Heather reveals how she continues to grow, forgive, and reconnect after decades of grief. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of how grief shapes families—and how healing remains possible at any age. This episode answers: What does grief look like when someone grows up around suicide, trauma, and unresolved family pain?How do you support a child or adult who is overwhelmed by grief or panic after sudden loss?Why does pet loss trigger such intense grief, and how can people better respond to it?What are the long-term effects of learning about death or suicide too young?How can someone rebuild emotional strength after years of layered grief and family trauma?Key Takeaways: Early exposure to suicide and death can create lifelong emotional patterns around grief and fear.Supporting someone in deep distress requires calm language, presence, and nonjudgment.Pet loss carries real grief weight and deserves validation, compassion, and proper emotional space.Generational trauma impacts how families communicate, cope, and emotionally self-protect.Healing expands when people speak openly about loss instead of hiding or minimizing it. Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Welcome to the World Premiere of Grief Is Not A Dirty Word! You will remember this podcast as Our Dead Dads. The evolution is complete, and the new name is now a fuller representation of everything this podcast has become in the last two years.Please enjoy this trailer, and get ready for new episodes beginning December 2, 2025.WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS Anyone navigating grief, emotional trauma, unresolved loss, or the weight of unspoken feelings. WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET A grounding introduction to grief, healing, connection, and the mission behind the podcast’s rebrand. DESCRIPTION: In this premiere episode, host Nick Gaylord opens the door to a deeply honest conversation about grief, healing, and the emotional weight so many people carry in silence. He shares how unprocessed anger after his father’s death became the starting point of a journey he never expected to take. This episode explores how grief shows up in ways we don’t always recognize, especially when it’s tied to long-standing wounds and unresolved stories. Nick reflects on the origins of Our Dead Dads, how it grew into a community, and why the show has evolved into Grief Is Not A Dirty Word. He speaks to the universal truth that grief is messy, unpredictable, and deeply human — and that connection is what helps us move forward. This is an invitation into a space where truth replaces silence, where emotions are honored, and where grief finally has room to breathe. This episode answers: What does grief actually look like when it doesn’t feel like grief at all?How do anger, avoidance, and emotional shutdown connect to unresolved grief?Why did Nick rebrand Our Dead Dads into Grief Is Not A Dirty Word?How can storytelling and community support healing after loss?Why do we need safe, honest spaces to talk about grief without shame?Key Takeaways: Grief can appear as anger, distance, or emotional overwhelm long before we recognize it.Healing often begins when we stop hiding what hurts and start naming it.Community and connection make grief more bearable and less isolating.Honest conversations help break cultural pressure to “stay strong” or “move on.”The rebrand reflects a broader mission: grief of all kinds deserves a place to be heard. Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

It's a short episode. After last week's three-hour marathon, you deserve a little bit of a break!Give this a listen and hear about what's going on right now and what's coming up in the near future.Please continue to spread the word about this show. Grief is something that impacts everyone we know and everyone we don't know. Together, we can change the world. And even if we don't change the entire world, changing one person's world is the best place to start.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone coping with grief, family loss, or domestic violence, and those searching for hope and resilience.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Powerful grief support, tools for healing, insights on honoring loved ones, and inspiration from Joe & Tara’s journey.DESCRIPTION: In this heartfelt episode, host Nick Gaylord sits down with Joe and Tara Petito, the father and stepmother of Gabby Petito, to explore the deep intersections of grief, family, and healing. Together, they share stories filled with laughter, dark humor, and the enduring pain of losing Gabby, while showing how love and joy can coexist with grief. The conversation highlights their work through the Gabby Petito Foundation, raising awareness for domestic violence and supporting families worldwide. Joe and Tara open up about parenting, marriage, and legacy, as well as the challenges step-parents face in grief and recognition. Listeners will hear how they continue to carry Gabby’s spirit in their daily lives while building global change through advocacy. This episode blends humor, honesty, and heartbreak, offering both comfort and empowerment for anyone walking through loss.This episode answers:How do parents find joy while living with grief after losing a child?What lessons can grieving families learn from Joe and Tara Petito’s journey?How does the Gabby Petito Foundation create change for domestic violence victims?Why is step-parent grief often overlooked, and how can it be honored?What role does humor and community play in healing from grief?Key Takeaways:Grief and joy can coexist in healing after loss.The Gabby Petito Foundation drives global domestic violence awareness.Step-parents play vital roles in grieving and legacy building.Dark humor and laughter can ease the pain of tragedy.Advocacy work transforms grief into meaningful change.IMPORTANT LINKS:GPF - www.gabbypetitofoundation.orgRun With The Angels 5k Registration - www.gabbypetitofoundation.org/eventsGabby Petito Foundation Night with the NY Mets - https://www.gofevo.com/event/Gabbypetito2Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief after childhood loss, family estrangement, or sibling death.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insight into grief recovery, coping with family trauma, and the power of resilience through heartbreaking experiences.DESCRIPTION: In this episode, host Nick Gaylord sits down with longtime friend and loyal listener Lisa Spychalski to share her deeply moving grief journey. Lisa opens up about losing her mother at just eight years old, reconnecting with her estranged father only to lose him again as a teenager, and enduring the tragic death of her sister in a devastating car accident. She reflects on the silence around her mother’s alcoholism, the complicated emotions of estrangement, and the weight of decades of grief carried forward. Lisa also shares the recent loss of her beloved dog Hazel, underscoring how grief continues to shape her life. Through heartbreak, humor, and raw honesty, Lisa demonstrates how resilience and connection make survival possible. This powerful episode shines light on how grief changes families, reshapes identity, and tests the bonds of love and memory.This episode answers:How do you cope with losing a parent at a young age?What happens when you reconnect with an estranged parent and lose them again?How does sibling loss in a tragic accident shape lifelong grief?What role do grandparents play in raising children after parental death?How can humor and resilience help process decades of grief?Key Takeaways:Early childhood loss leaves lifelong impacts that resurface throughout adulthood.Estrangement complicates grief, adding layers of anger and unresolved emotions.Sibling death in sudden accidents creates trauma that families carry for decades.Silence around causes of death, like alcoholism, deepens confusion for children.Resilience, loyal friendships, and small moments of humor sustain healing.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone struggling with grief, end-of-life decisions, or the painful memory of loved ones dying alone.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Practical grief support, insight into death doula care, and strategies to bring dignity, compassion, and human connection back into end-of-life experiences.DESCRIPTION: In this episode of Our Dead Dads, host Nick Gaylord speaks with certified death doula and nurse-turned-educator Kacie Gikonyo about grief, caregiving, and humanizing the dying process. Kacie shares her journey from nursing through the COVID-19 pandemic to founding her Death Doula School, training doulas worldwide to support grieving families. She explains why end-of-life planning, advanced directives, and compassionate presence are essential for reducing fear and loneliness at the end of life. Listeners will learn how death doulas bring dignity and empathy to dying, how cultural silence around death harms families, and how education and advocacy can create better grief outcomes. This conversation offers hope, healing, and powerful lessons for anyone facing loss or supporting others in grief.This episode answers:What is a death doula and how do they support grieving families?How did the COVID-19 pandemic change the way people experienced grief and dying?Why is end-of-life planning so important for families facing loss?What role does compassion and human touch play in easing grief at the end of life?How can social media and education spread awareness about grief and death doulas?Key Takeaways:Death doulas provide human connection and dignity at the end of life.COVID-19 revealed deep gaps in compassionate end-of-life care.Advance care planning reduces trauma and unresolved grief.Social media can powerfully educate and normalize conversations about death.Training and regulation ensure doulas are equipped to support grieving families.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief after cancer, dementia, or chronic illness and those experiencing anticipatory grief while caregiving.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Practical insights on managing loss, balancing family caregiving, processing long-term grief, and keeping loved ones’ legacies alive.DESCRIPTION: In this powerful conversation, Nick Gaylord sits down with Dorothy Graham O’Dell to explore her layered journey with grief. Dorothy shares her experience as a devoted daughter, caring for her father through years of chronic pain, cancer, and eventual death. She also opens up about her grandmother’s dementia, her role as power of attorney, and the emotional toll of constant caregiving. Together, Nick and Dorothy discuss anticipatory grief, the complex balance of celebrating milestones while preparing for loss, and the importance of legacy through storytelling. Dorothy reflects on her father’s positivity despite immense suffering, the challenges of making end-of-life decisions, and the healing power of community events like the golf tournament held in his honor. This episode reminds listeners that grief is both deeply personal and profoundly universal, offering hope, honesty, and connection in the hardest of times.This episode answers:What is anticipatory grief and how do you cope with it?How do you balance caregiving responsibilities with personal life?What are healthy ways to honor a parent’s legacy after death?How can families support each other through cancer and dementia?What does navigating grief years after loss actually look like?Key Takeaways:Anticipatory grief can be just as heavy as the loss itself.Caregiving often requires balancing control and compassion.Honoring loved ones with legacy events keeps their memory alive.Grief resurfaces in waves—through songs, smells, or daily reminders.Healing requires both self-care and community support.4th ANNUAL DON GRAHAM MEMORIAL FUN CLASSIC (AUGUST 9, 2025)Text: (519) 359-4743Email: [email protected]'S LINKS:UNSTOPPABLE OVERCOMERS PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/@theunstoppablenetworkFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/dorothy.graham3INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dorothygrahamodell/TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@unstoppableovercomerLINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorothyann-graham-o-dell-49943026/DOROTHY'S BOOKS: THE OVERCOMER: FACING CHALLENGES WITH FAITH AND COURAGE: https://www.amazon.ca/Overcomer-Facing-Challenges-Faith-Courage/dp/B08VLQ91WM/THE OVERCOMER PLAYBOOSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone grieving a parent, navigating Alzheimer’s caregiving, or struggling with anticipatory grief.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insights on surviving deep grief, finding peace after loss, and transforming pain into writing, art, and healing practices.DESCRIPTION: In this heartfelt episode, host Nick Gaylord speaks with poet and author Cleo Childs about her journey through grief after caring for her mother Candice, who faced early-onset Alzheimer’s. Cleo shares the challenges of anticipatory grief, the emotional toll of caregiving at a young age, and the lessons she learned about patience, grace, and forgiveness. She opens up about the anger and rage that surfaced after her mother’s passing and how writing became her outlet for honesty and healing. Through poetry, Cleo captured both the devastation and beauty of grief, creating a book that helps others feel less alone. Nick and Cleo explore how grief reshapes identity, the importance of community and therapy, and the power of turning pain into purpose. This episode offers a deeply relatable and compassionate perspective for anyone navigating loss.This episode answers:What is anticipatory grief and how do caregivers experience it?How does early-onset Alzheimer’s impact families and young adult caregivers?Why does anger and rage often appear in grief, and how can it be expressed?How can writing and poetry become tools for healing after loss?What does it mean to “move with grief” instead of “moving on” after death?Key Takeaways:Anticipatory grief is real and often as painful as grief after death.Caregiving at a young age creates unique challenges and emotional burdens.Anger is a natural, valid part of grief and must be acknowledged.Writing and art can transform pain into connection and healing.Moving forward in grief is about carrying your loved one with you, not leaving them behind.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone coping with the death of a parent or struggling with parenting while grieving will find validation, connection, and hope.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insight into living with grief after losing a mother, how writing can support healing, and the importance of honoring legacy while navigating everyday life.DESCRIPTION: In this heartfelt episode of Our Dead Dads Podcast, host Nick Gaylord welcomes grief writer Chelsea Ohlemiller, who lost her mother Rita to cancer in 2017. Chelsea shares how grief reshaped her life as a mother, wife, and teacher, and how writing became her most powerful outlet. What began as journal entries evolved into Hope and Harsh Realities, a platform reaching over 200,000 grieving hearts, and her book Now That She’s Gone: A Daughter’s Reflection on Loss, Love, and a Mother’s Legacy. Together, Nick and Chelsea discuss identity after loss, the challenges of parenting without a parent, and the guilt and grace that come with finding joy after grief. Listeners will hear stories of family, second marriages, and even beloved pets that illustrate how grief touches every corner of life. This conversation is both tender and empowering, reminding us that grief is lifelong, unpredictable, and deeply human, yet it also carries hope, connection, and legacy.This episode answers:What does grief feel like after losing a mother to cancer?How can writing help process grief and healing?What does it mean to parent children while grieving a parent?How do milestones like marriage or graduation trigger new grief waves?What role does legacy play in navigating grief?Key Takeaways:Grief doesn’t end after the first year; it evolves with new life milestones.Writing can transform private pain into healing for a wider community.Parenting without a parent carries unique challenges and ongoing grief.Joy, humor, and even pets play a role in grief resilience.Honoring legacy helps balance harsh realities with hope and healing.CHELSEA'S LINKS:Website: www.hopeandharshrealities.comFacebook: @hopeandharshrealitiesInstagram: @hopeandharshrealitiesTikTok: @chelseaohlemillerSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone grieving child loss, stillbirth, or the death of a parent who seeks connection and hope.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: An honest conversation about grief, parental loss, survivor’s guilt, and using writing as a healing outlet.DESCRIPTION: In this episode, Nick Gaylord sits down with Michelle Rix for a raw discussion about grief, child loss, and the journey of living with tragedy. Michelle shares the heartbreaking story of losing her daughter Paisley to stillbirth at 38 weeks, followed by the devastating loss of her father just a few years later. Together, Nick and Michelle explore the lifelong weight of grief, the struggle with survivor’s guilt, and the pain of addiction and estrangement that often follows trauma. Michelle also reflects on how writing, spirituality, and support from her family helped her rebuild her life and navigate years of sorrow. Their conversation highlights the importance of grief storytelling, the courage to share painful truths, and the healing power of community. For anyone coping with the death of a child, the loss of a parent, or the ongoing impact of grief, this episode offers validation, hope, and a reminder that no one has to walk through loss alone.This episode answers:How do you cope with the grief of losing a child to stillbirth?What are healthy ways to process grief after losing a parent?How can writing and creativity help with grief and healing?Why does survivor’s guilt affect so many grieving parents?How can sharing grief stories reduce isolation and shame?Key Takeaways:Child loss and parental grief reshape life in profound ways.Survivor’s guilt is a common but misunderstood part of grief.Writing and storytelling can provide powerful outlets for healing.Addiction, estrangement, and anger often arise in grief journeys.Grief conversations build community, resilience, and connection Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone grieving the death of a loved one or searching for hope after loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insights into grief support, community healing, and how advocacy turns pain into purpose.DESCRIPTION: In this special episode of Our Dead Dads, host Nick Gaylord takes listeners inside the Gabby Petito Foundation’s Change the World Charity Golf Event. Rather than a traditional interview, Nick shares a series of live conversations with family members, supporters, and volunteers who have all been touched by grief and committed to turning their loss into action. From laughter and hugs to heavy moments of remembrance, the event highlights how community can transform unthinkable pain into meaningful change. Listeners will hear from Gabby’s family, foundation leaders, and advocates about their ongoing work to raise awareness of domestic violence, support missing persons cases, and foster healing across communities nationwide. This episode is both a window into the foundation’s powerful mission and a reminder that grief can be channeled into lasting impact.This episode answers:How can community events support families grieving a tragic loss?What is the mission of the Gabby Petito Foundation in grief and healing?How does advocacy help transform grief into meaningful action?What resources exist for families facing domestic violence and missing persons cases?How can grief be honored through remembrance and community connection?Key Takeaways:Grief can be transformed into advocacy and purpose.Community events provide healing and connection for grieving families.The Gabby Petito Foundation raises awareness for domestic violence and missing persons.Volunteers and supporters play a critical role in sustaining grief support efforts.Honoring loved ones through remembrance keeps their legacy alive.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone experiencing anticipatory grief, supporting a parent with serious illness, or seeking tools to preserve family connections before loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Practical grief strategies, compassionate caregiving tools, and a framework for legacy-building that supports healing now and in the future.DESCRIPTION: In this heartfelt episode, Nick sits down with licensed clinical counselor Devan Christian-Vermeer to explore the deep realities of anticipatory grief. Devan shares her family’s journey through her father’s cancer diagnosis, his unexpected remission, and the urgency of creating meaningful connections before loss. She introduces her Compassionate Care Method—a four-part framework for memory-making, legacy preservation, and relationship repair. The conversation dives into the emotional toll of preparing for grief, the importance of recording voices, capturing family traditions, and intentional connection across generations. Together, Nick and Devan explore how to ease guilt and regret by taking proactive steps now. This episode highlights the balance between honoring the present and preparing for the future, offering listeners hope, comfort, and actionable guidance for their own grief journey.This episode answers:What is anticipatory grief and how can families cope with it?How does the Compassionate Care Method help preserve legacies?What practical steps can you take to capture memories before loss?How do you support children in grief when a grandparent is ill?How can families reduce guilt and regret after a loved one dies?Key Takeaways:Anticipatory grief is real and can be navigated with intention.Capturing memories before loss creates priceless comfort later.The Compassionate Care Method guides families through legacy work.Open conversations strengthen relationships and reduce future regret.Healing starts by embracing presence, memory-making, and connection now.DEVAN'S LINKS:Counseling LinksWebsite: https://devanceciliacounselling.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/devanceciliacounsellingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/devanceciliacounselling/Coaching LinksFree Resources: https://payhip.com/DevanCeciliaCoachingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone processing grief after losing a parent, struggling with complicated family relationships, or carrying unprocessed anger and trauma.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Tools for navigating grief, insights into forgiveness and therapy, and perspective on building healing spaces for honest conversations about loss.DESCRIPTION: In this powerful conversation, host Nick Gaylord steps into the guest chair for a feature on ILLUMENATE with Chris Tidrick. Nick reflects on the grief that followed his father’s death, the anger that therapy helped him release, and the path toward forgiveness that reshaped his life. He shares the inspiration behind creating Our Dead Dads Podcast and why building safe spaces to talk openly about loss is essential. The discussion dives into masculinity, vulnerability, and how grief often carries silence across generations. Nick explores what it means to break those patterns, build resilience, and help others navigate their pain through storytelling. This episode is both deeply personal and widely relatable for anyone searching for hope on the other side of loss.This episode answers:How do you process grief after losing a parent with a complicated relationship?Why is forgiveness an essential part of healing grief and trauma?What role can therapy play in releasing anger tied to loss?How do men learn to talk about grief and vulnerability?What inspired Nick to create Our Dead Dads Podcast as a healing space?Key Takeaways:Grief is not about moving on but moving forward.Forgiveness is a gift to yourself, not just the person who hurt you.Therapy can provide tools for releasing unprocessed anger.Honest conversations break generational silence around grief.Creating space for others to share stories builds community and healing.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Parents, families, and anyone navigating child loss, trauma, or grief healing.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Tools for processing grief, stories of resilience, and hope for finding meaning after tragedy.DESCRIPTION: In this powerful episode of Our Dead Dads Podcast, host Nick Gaylord sits down with Scarlett Lewis, mother of Jesse Lewis, who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Scarlett shares her journey through unimaginable child loss, the moments of grief and shock, and the small but profound miracles that carried her forward. She opens up about her son’s bravery, her family’s healing, and the pivotal chalkboard message—“nurturing, healing, love”—that became the foundation for the Choose Love Movement. Together, Nick and Scarlett explore the intersection of personal grief, public tragedy, and the power of resilience in the aftermath of school shootings. This conversation is filled with raw truth, hope, and the reminder that even in the darkest moments, love can lead the way toward healing.This episode answers:What is the grief journey of a Sandy Hook parent?How can families process child loss after a school shooting?What role does community support play in grief healing?How did Scarlett Lewis turn trauma into the Choose Love Movement?What lessons of resilience and hope come from Jesse’s story?Key Takeaways:Grief after child loss can be transformed into purpose.Community and faith play crucial roles in healing trauma.Jesse’s act of bravery saved nine classmates at Sandy Hook.“Nurturing, healing, love” became a global grief-healing message.The Choose Love Movement offers resilience tools for families and schools.JESSE LEWIS CHOOSE LOVE MOVEMENT (website): https://chooselovemovement.org/Check out the entire website! So many FREE resources are available! Lessons from Pre-K through 12th grade! Register now to start receiving your curriculum!You can also become an ambassador! Our children are worth it! Change the world! Say his name!Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief after losing a parent or loved one, especially those seeking meaning, healing, and resilience in the face of loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Listeners will hear Scott Tavlin’s grief journey, how he honored his late mother through purpose-driven challenges, and how resilience, family, and legacy shape life after loss.DESCRIPTION: In this powerful episode, host Nick Gaylord sits down with Tampa Bay radio host and motivational speaker Scott Tavlin to discuss his deeply personal grief journey after losing his mother. Scott reflects on his mother’s legacy, her unwavering belief in him, and how her lessons continue to guide his life. From early struggles with self-confidence to finding his voice in radio, Scott shares how grief shaped his identity and inspired him to live with greater purpose. He recounts the miracle years his family received after his mother’s first health scare, the heartbreak of her final decline, and the raw pain of her death. Scott explains how running, including completing a marathon in her honor, became both a coping mechanism and a way to give back. His story is one of resilience, healing, and transformation—offering hope to anyone grieving the loss of a loved one.This episode answers:How do you cope with grief after losing your mom too soon?What is the role of resilience in the grieving process?How can you find meaning and purpose while grieving?Why do physical challenges like marathons help with grief healing?How can family connection support grief and loss recovery?Key Takeaways:Grief changes everything, but purpose can guide healing.Family connection provides vital support during loss.Resilience is built through small, intentional steps.Physical challenges can channel grief into strength.Honoring a loved one’s legacy creates lasting meaning.FOLLOW SCOTT!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scotttavlin/Listen to Scotty in the Mornings!Magic 94.9: https://www.mymagic949.com/Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating anticipatory grief, long-term illness, dementia, or the drawn-out process of losing a loved one.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Practical insights on anticipatory grief, tools for supporting loved ones, and guidance on handling the emotional rollercoaster of the long goodbye.DESCRIPTION: In this episode, Nick speaks with Dr. Mary Ann Mercer about the unique challenges of anticipatory grief and the painful reality of the long goodbye. Dr. Mary shares deeply personal stories about supporting her best friend through a prolonged cancer journey, the mixture of emotions that come with wishing for peace while fearing loss, and the importance of validating a loved one’s feelings without interruption. She also reflects on supporting a lifelong friend facing dementia, offering powerful lessons on companionship, patience, and presence. Nick and Dr. Mary highlight the universal need for compassion, silence, and human connection when words fall short. Together, they explore how anticipatory grief differs from sudden loss, why it carries unique layers of guilt and exhaustion, and how small gestures—like saving a voicemail or sitting in silence—can carry profound healing. This heartfelt conversation is a resource for anyone struggling to support loved ones through decline, illness, and end-of-life grief.This episode answers:What is anticipatory grief and how is it different from other types of grief?How do you support a loved one through a long goodbye with cancer or dementia?Why does anticipatory grief often bring feelings of guilt, sadness, and relief?What are the healthiest ways to comfort someone facing the end of life?How can silence and presence be more healing than words during grief?Key Takeaways:Anticipatory grief brings a complex mix of sadness, guilt, and relief.Silence and presence can validate emotions better than rushed comfort.Long goodbyes often leave caregivers emotionally drained and isolated.Saving tangible memories (voicemails, notes, cards) provides lasting comfort.Compassion, patience, and listening are essential in end-of-life support. DR. MARY'S LINKS:WEBSITE: www.PositiveLifeAnswers.com INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/positivelifeanswers/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/positivelifeanswers/E-MAIL: [email protected] LIFE ANSWERS PODCAST LINKS:Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Spouses, caregivers, and anyone navigating anticipatory grief or struggling after the death of a loved one.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Practical insights on caregiving, grief recovery, resilience, and finding healing and purpose after loss.DESCRIPTION: In this episode of Our Dead Dads Podcast, host Nick Gaylord speaks with author and widow Vicki Goodman about her powerful journey through anticipatory grief, caregiving, and healing after the death of her husband Sam. Vicki shares the love story that defined their marriage, the reality of facing a terminal cancer diagnosis, and the emotional challenges of stepping into the caregiver role. She reflects on anticipatory grief, the support she received, and the complicated reactions from friends who struggled to face mortality. Vicki also discusses her healing process, including moments of serendipity, discovering new passions, and writing her book To Sam with Love. This conversation explores how grief can inspire growth, purpose, and peace while honoring the memory of a beloved partner.This episode answers:What is anticipatory grief and how does it impact caregivers?How do you support a spouse through terminal cancer?What role does caregiving play in healing after loss?How can widows and widowers rebuild purpose after losing a partner?What lessons can grief teach us about resilience and acceptance?Key Takeaways:Anticipatory grief prepares you emotionally before loss occurs.Caregiving can reveal unexpected strength and resilience.Community support is essential, but not always easy.Finding new passions can help channel grief into growth.Love, memory, and legacy continue to shape life after loss.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone grieving the devastating loss of a child or struggling with complicated grief, anger, or isolation.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insights on grief recovery, coping with child loss, justice system struggles, healing through community, therapy, and creating meaningful memorials.DESCRIPTION: In this episode of Our Dead Dads, host Nick Gaylord speaks with Linda Henderson, who lost her daughter Andrea in a tragic car accident caused by a distracted truck driver. Linda shares the profound grief of child loss, the anger of a failed justice system, and the long custody battle to remain connected to her grandson. She reveals how support groups, therapy, and community became lifelines, and how creating a memorial garden for Andrea transformed her healing journey. Linda also discusses her book The Road of Love and Hope and her mission to help others embrace grief, cherish memories, and find purpose after unimaginable loss. This powerful story highlights the resilience of a grieving mother and the enduring power of love through grief.This episode answers:How do you cope with grief after the sudden loss of a child?What happens when the justice system fails grieving families?How can grandparents fight for visitation rights after child loss?What role do support groups and therapy play in grief recovery?How does creating a memorial space help in healing from grief?Key Takeaways:Grief after child loss is lifelong, but healing is possible through small steps.The justice system can compound trauma, but personal healing must continue.Fighting for connection with grandchildren can be a critical part of healing.Community support groups and therapy provide lifelines in grief’s darkest moments.Creating memorials and writing can transform grief into purpose and hope.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Caregivers, spouses, and families experiencing grief, ambiguous grief, or long-term anticipatory loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insight into caregiving, healing, spiritual signs, and rebuilding life after profound grief.DESCRIPTION: In this heartfelt episode of Our Dead Dads, host Nick Gaylord speaks with Kristina Driscoll about her 12-year journey caring for her husband Bill through early-onset Alzheimer’s. Kristina shares candidly about the slow decline, the ambiguous grief of losing someone piece by piece, and the challenges of raising her son during this painful season. She discusses the guilt, anxiety, and exhaustion that caregiving brings, while also highlighting the importance of asking for help and building community. Kristina opens up about the spiritual signs that comforted her after Bill’s passing, the role of dreams in healing, and the unexpected synchronicities that shaped her journey. Her story offers hope, resilience, and a reminder that grief is not about forgetting, but about integrating love and loss into a new life.This episode answers:What is ambiguous grief and how does it affect caregivers?How do families cope with the long goodbye of Alzheimer’s?What role can spiritual signs and dreams play in healing grief?How do you balance caregiving, parenting, and personal survival?What steps help rebuild life and identity after losing a spouse?Key Takeaways:Ambiguous grief begins long before physical death in Alzheimer’s caregiving.Caregivers must learn to ask for help and accept support.Spiritual signs and dreams can provide deep comfort in grief.Children process grief differently, often suppressing emotions until later.Healing after loss is about integration, not forgetting.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Parents grieving a child, families facing addiction, and anyone seeking hope in the aftermath of devastating loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insight into grief recovery, how to honor a child’s legacy, and ways to channel pain into healing, service, and community.DESCRIPTION: In this deeply moving episode, host Nick Gaylord welcomes Kathy Julien, a trailblazing jet pilot and mother who lost her 24-year-old son Eric to the devastating mix of addiction and diabetes. Kathy shares her raw story of child loss, addiction struggles, and the ongoing grief that forever changes a parent. Listeners will hear how she fought for her son through multiple rehabs, survived the heartbreak of his decline during COVID, and found ways to process unimaginable pain. From creating a tree memorial at his skate park to launching her podcast Another Empty Kitchen, Kathy reveals how grief can transform into connection, advocacy, and purpose. This episode is about loss, resilience, and building a legacy of love in the face of tragedy.This episode answers:How do parents cope after losing a child to addiction and illness?What role does community support play in processing grief?How can grief be transformed into purpose and legacy?What strategies help parents avoid being consumed by depression after child loss?How can creating a foundation or podcast help honor a child’s memory?Key Takeaways:Grief after child loss never disappears but can fuel purpose.Addiction is a disease, not a moral failure.Memorials and rituals create living legacies for lost children.Transforming pain into service helps parents survive devastating grief.Sharing stories publicly can connect grieving families worldwide.CHECK OUT KATHY'S PODCAST - ANOTHER EMPTY KITCHENWEBSITE: https://www.anotheremptykitchen.com - Click into the website and select "PODCAST" at the topSupport the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone grieving estranged parents, unresolved loss, or complicated grief. WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insight into estrangement grief, anger, family abandonment, and paths to healing.DESCRIPTION: In this episode of Our Dead Dads Podcast, host Nick Gaylord speaks with Mary Fields about the deeply complicated grief of losing an estranged parent. Mary’s father had been absent from her life for nearly two decades when she suddenly became responsible for managing his affairs after his death. She describes the overwhelming burden of cleaning out a hoarder’s home, facing shocking realities, and stepping into the role of next-of-kin for someone she barely knew. Together, Nick and Mary unpack the invisible grief of estrangement, the anger of abandonment, and the conflicted emotions of honoring someone who offered little in return. Mary opens up about her therapy journey, the release that came from processing her emotions, and the dignity she ultimately chose to give her father through a military service. This powerful conversation highlights resilience, compassion, and the courage it takes to grieve what never was.This episode answers:How do you grieve an estranged parent you barely knew?What happens when you become responsible for a parent’s affairs after decades of absence?Why does parental estrangement create such complicated grief?How can therapy help with unresolved anger and grief toward absent parents?What lessons can be learned from honoring someone who never showed up for you?Key Takeaways:Estrangement creates unique grief challenges distinct from typical loss.Managing a parent’s affairs can feel like business, not grief.Therapy provides space to process anger, abandonment, and unresolved emotions.Honoring someone with dignity can offer healing even in fractured relationships.Grief can surface for what never existed, not just what was lost.MARY’S LINKS:FACEBOOK (BUSINESS): https://www.facebook.com/merryassistantFACEBOOK (PERSONAL): https://www.facebook.com/nononopenopeINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/merryassistant/Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS Couples navigating grief, families balancing trauma, and listeners seeking insight into shared loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET Powerful lessons in grief support, resilience, communication, and navigating loss within relationships.DESCRIPTION: In this episode, host Nick Gaylord welcomes back previous guests Jocelyn Bates and Matthew Struck for a rare and candid conversation about what it means to grieve as a couple. Jocelyn lost both of her parents within a week during the COVID-19 pandemic, while Matthew lost his father to suicide and his grandfather soon after. Together, they share how grief shaped their marriage, tested their communication, and forced them to navigate survival mode while raising three children. Nick explores how different grieving styles can either divide or strengthen a partnership, and how humor, anger, sadness, and silence all became part of their process. The conversation sheds light on the unique challenges of shared grief, including estate planning stress, parenting through loss, and redefining family identity. Most importantly, it highlights the resilience, vulnerability, and love required to move forward together.This episode answers:How do couples process grief differently after major losses?What happens when parents die close together and leave no estate plan?How can families support children through grief while coping themselves?What role do anger and sadness play in grieving styles?How can communication and vulnerability strengthen marriages after loss?Key Takeaways:Grief affects couples differently and can challenge relationship dynamics.Estate planning and practical matters intensify emotional stress after loss.Children process grief uniquely, often mirroring parental coping styles.Allowing sadness, not just anger, is critical for healing.Shared grief can become a source of resilience and deeper connection.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone coping with suicide loss, complicated grief, or strained family relationships.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insight into processing trauma, healing through grief, and finding resilience after loss.DESCRIPTION: In this episode, Nick Gaylord sits down with Matthew Struck for a powerful conversation about grief, trauma, and the realities of suicide loss. Matthew lost his father to suicide after years of a difficult and strained relationship, adding layers of unresolved pain and complicated grief to his journey. He reflects on the emotional weight of losing a parent under such circumstances, and how unresolved trauma shaped his healing. The discussion explores the stigma around suicide, the hidden challenges of generational patterns, and the struggle to make peace when closure feels out of reach. Nick and Matthew dive into family dynamics, resilience, and the ways grief can open unexpected opportunities for growth. This conversation is raw, honest, and deeply human—offering support to anyone navigating grief, trauma, or loss.This episode answers:How do you cope with grief after losing a parent to suicide?What makes complicated grief different from other forms of grief?How do strained relationships impact the grieving process?What role does trauma play in healing after suicide loss?How can families break unhealthy generational cycles of grief?Key Takeaways:Suicide loss brings layers of unresolved emotions and complicated grief.Strained family relationships intensify the grieving process.Trauma and grief often intertwine, requiring intentional healing work.Generational patterns of silence and avoidance can be broken.Healing is possible through honesty, vulnerability, and supportive practices.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Losing a parent is one of the hardest things we can face in life—but what happens when you lose both parents in the span of a week? In this special re-release, we revisit my emotional conversation with Jocelyn Bates, who shares how she navigated the overwhelming loss of both her mother and father during the COVID-19 pandemic. As an only child, she was left to manage not just the immense grief, but also the legal and logistical challenges of handling her parents’ estate while raising three children of her own.Jocelyn takes us through her grief journey, from facing her childhood wounds to discovering new ways of healing, including art therapy, journaling, and exploring alternative methods of self-discovery. We discuss the complexities of grief, trauma, and how societal expectations often pressure people to "move on" rather than process their pain.We’re re-releasing this powerful conversation because next week, Jocelyn’s husband, Matthew Struck, joins me to share his own journey of loss, grieving the suicide of his father and the complex family history that shaped their relationship. Then, in Episode 42, I sit down with both Jocelyn and Matt as we discuss how their grief experiences have shaped their marriage and family. This episode is a reminder that healing takes time, and it starts with giving yourself permission to feel.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief, child loss, or trauma in the public eye.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insights into coping with grief, facing public scrutiny, and finding resilience after tragedy.DESCRIPTION: In this powerful episode, Nick Gaylord speaks with Robbie Parker, whose daughter Emily was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Robbie shares his deeply personal grief journey, including the painful days following the tragedy, his memories of Emily, and the years of public harassment he endured. He discusses the challenges of processing trauma while facing conspiracy theories and relentless scrutiny. Robbie opens up about therapy, plant-based medicine, and the healing role of family and community. Listeners will hear how he has turned unimaginable loss into a mission of connection and support. This is a conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and honoring loved ones through grief.This episode answers:How do parents cope with child loss after a mass tragedy?What is it like to grieve in the public eye?How can families heal after traumatic grief and harassment?What role can therapy and alternative healing play in grief recovery?How do you honor and remember a loved one while moving forward?Key Takeaways:Grief after child loss is deeply personal and lifelong.Public tragedies compound grief with scrutiny and harassment.Therapy and plant-based medicine supported Robbie’s healing.Family bonds provide strength through unimaginable loss.Sharing grief stories fosters connection and resilience.To order A FATHER'S STORY: TAKING ON ALEX JONES AND RECLAIMING THE TRUTH ABOUT SANDY HOOK - go to https://www.ourdeaddads.com/book-recommendationsRobbie's website: https://www.robbieparker.net/You may contact Robbie through his website, and you may also buy his book through his website.Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone facing grief from the loss of a child, parent, or loved one who is searching for comfort, perspective, and spiritual connection.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insights into forgiveness, continued bonds after loss, and tools for navigating grief with compassion, healing, and renewed purpose.DESCRIPTION: In this episode of Our Dead Dads Podcast, host Nick Gaylord sits down with psychology professor, author, and grief educator Dave Roberts, who shares the devastating loss of his 18-year-old daughter Janine to cancer. Dave opens up about the grief of losing both his father and daughter, and how those tragedies reshaped his understanding of forgiveness, love, and continued spiritual connection. He explores the signs and synchronicities that helped him stay connected with Janine, the dream visits that brought peace, and the journey of reconciling with his parents long after their deaths. Dave also reflects on raising his granddaughter after Janine’s passing, the transformative role of spiritual teachers, and the power of integrating psychology and spirituality to heal. Listeners will come away with a new perspective on grief, hope, and the bonds that endure beyond death.This episode answers:How do you heal after losing a child to cancer?What does forgiveness look like in grief and family estrangement?How can spiritual connections and dream visits bring peace after loss?What role do synchronicities and signs play in grief healing?How can psychology and spirituality combine to support grief recovery?Key Takeaways:Grief does not end relationships; it transforms them into continued bonds.Forgiveness can free both the grieving and the departed.Spiritual teachers and practices can open new healing paths.Grief milestones extend beyond death dates, including diagnosis and treatment memories.Integrating grief education with personal storytelling normalizes hard conversations. DAVE'S LINKSPERSONAL WEBSITE: https://davidrobertsmsw.com/AUTHOR WEBSITE: https://psychologyprofessorandminister.com/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/david.j.roberts1/LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-roberts-56690513/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/daver3103/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@daveroberts301/podcastsTHE TEACHING JOURNEYS PODCAST: https://rss.com/podcasts/theteachingjourneys/Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/

Find the show on Apple Podcasts! Click the FOLLOW button so you never miss an episode! Give us a 5-star rating and leave a review! This will boost our visibility and help others to find the show!WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone facing grief after losing a spouse, navigating widowhood, or struggling with remarriage after loss.WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Insight into healing after devastating cancer loss, the complexities of blending families, and the hope of rediscovering love while honoring the past.DESCRIPTION: In this episode, Nick Gaylord speaks with Jason and Kirsten Clawson, two remarkable individuals who both lost their spouses to cancer and found unexpected love through shared grief. Jason lost his wife Valerie to stage four colon cancer, leaving him to raise their sons while navigating unimaginable sorrow. Kirsten’s husband Cody died from acute myeloid leukemia during COVID, forcing her to face widowhood in isolation. Together, Jason and Kirsten share how grief brought them together, how they built a blended family, and how they continue to honor Valerie and Cody while building a future rooted in love and remembrance. They discuss breaking stigmas around remarriage after loss, raising children through grief, and supporting thousands through their platform, Light After Grief. This conversation is filled with authenticity, resilience, and proof that love and grief can coexist.This episode answers:How do you navigate remarriage after losing a spouse to cancer?What is it like raising children through grief after widowhood?How can families honor loved ones who have passed while building new traditions?Why do so many feel stigma around finding love again after loss?How can social media grief communities create real healing connections?Key Takeaways:Love and grief can coexist when honoring both past and present.Children process grief in different ways and need open conversations.Early engagement with grief work improves long-term healing.Remarriage after loss is not betrayal but an extension of love.Connection and service to others help transform grief into hope.JASON & KIRSTEN'S LINKS:LightAfterGrief Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/lightaftergrief/FREE RESOURCES:https://stan.store/lightaftergrief?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabVUJKaWuDEUzwwWlmy-FuVw11cKTksPYkf2l9nKc6fLJkWcP9tjUmYo3c_aem_Omca93YD9qruOv1SwsJ4zgFIND JASON & KIRSTEN ON FACEBOOK:Jason: https://www.facebook.com/jason.m.clawsonKirsten: https://www.facebook.com/kirsten.olson.18Support the showGIVE THE SHOW A 5-STAR RATING ON APPLE PODCASTS! FOLLOW US ON APPLE OR YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM! BOOKMARK OUR WEBSITE: www.griefisnotadirtyword.com FOLLOW OUR DEAD DADS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefisnotadirtyword Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefisnotadirtyword TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griefisnotadirtywordYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmmv6sdmMIys3GDBjiui3kw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-gaylord/