Episode #26-Choices

Episode #33-Steve Karaiskos, PH.D

"Send us a Comment" [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2553114/fan_mail/new] In this episode, we are joined by Steven Karaiskos, Ph.D., an educator, psychologist, and emotion scientist with more than 25 years of experience in the field of education. He is the founder of Elpis Consulting and serves as the Director of Postvention & Community Programming at The Kita Center, where he develops grief-informed retreats, peer support initiatives, and programs for individuals and families impacted by suicide loss. His work includes Camp Kita, a free summer camp for youth ages 8–17 who have experienced the loss of a loved one. Steven also consults with Sea Change Mentoring on culturally responsive Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) programming and previously served as Senior Director of Education at Samaritans, a Boston-based suicide prevention organization. A nationally recognized speaker, facilitator, and writer, Steven’s work focuses on fostering belonging, emotional safety, and meaningful human connection across the lifespan. By integrating research, human-centered practices, and his own lived experience as a suicide loss survivor, he brings a unique and compassionate perspective to supporting individuals, families, and communities navigating grief and loss.

Episode #32-Monique Walker

"Send us a Comment" [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2553114/fan_mail/new]  In this episode, J. Monique Walker shares her journey of navigating the loss of a relationship with her biological mother. Although her mother is still living, Monique was raised by her grandparents, a reality that shaped much of her life and personal growth. As the founder of Pure U Coaching (Personal Unraveling Radiant Essence), Monique discusses the power of personal choice and the importance of refusing to remain stuck in grief, rejection, and past wounds. She emphasizes that healing and growth require intentional effort, self-reflection, and a commitment to becoming the best version of yourself. Her story is a powerful reminder that while we cannot always choose our circumstances, we can choose how we respond to them.

Episode #31-Jason Stout

"Send us a Comment" [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2553114/fan_mail/new] In this episode, Jason Stout shares his passion for helping people reconnect with the outdoors and discover the healing power of nature. Jason's own life has been marked by profound loss. At just four years old, he lost his five-year-old sister. Later, his grandmother was murdered, and at the age of fourteen, he lost his father to a sudden heart attack while he slept. Drawing from both his personal experiences and professional work, Jason has spent years contracting with organizations such as TAPS and Outward Bound, helping individuals and families navigate grief, trauma, and resilience. Through his organization, Stoutreach, he guides people of all ages toward healing and growth through outdoor experiences. In our conversation, Jason discusses the importance of unplugging from the constant noise of the digital age and embracing the restorative benefits of nature. He shares how time outdoors can provide space for reflection, connection, and healing, allowing the natural world to become a powerful companion on the journey through grief.

Episode #30-Dr. Frank Campbell

"Send us a Comment" [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2553114/fan_mail/new] In this episode, we welcome back returning guest Dr. Frank Campbell, who previously joined us on Episode #14. Dr. Campbell discusses how, in America, we often experience what he calls “microwave bereavement,” where society expects us to return to normal after only a few short days away from work following the loss of a loved one. Frank also shares his powerful concept of “The Canyon of Why” and the difficult choices we face at the fork in the river of bereavement. Within this canyon, we encounter isolation, towering walls, swift rapids, and overwhelming uncertainty. He explains how important it is to have a guide—someone who has already navigated those dangerous waters and difficult decisions before us. And when someone throws you a life preserver of empathy along the way, it is always wise to grab hold.

Episode #29-Joanne Harpel

"Send us a Comment" [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2553114/fan_mail/new] In this episode, Joanne Harpel shares part of her journey following the loss of her brother, Stephen, to suicide in 1993. Joanne is the President of Coping After Suicide (CAS). Throughout the episode, we discuss the importance of being not only reactive in grief, but also proactive. Joanne reflects on a quote from Admiral William McRaven’s book, sharing that grief, much like life, is “not one step at a time, but rather one evolution at a time.” We grow from the steps we have already taken, rather than starting over with each new one. Another powerful concept explored in this conversation is that asking “Why?” in our grief journey does not always mean there will be an answer. Sometimes the question itself becomes part of the journey toward understanding, healing, and growth.