S2E2: Evie's Legacy & Sands Awareness

S2E2: Evie's Legacy & Sands Awareness

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443900/fan_mail/new] ---- Most people think grief ends after a certain time but what if we shifted the narrative to see it as a lifelong journey? Suz’s raw story of losing her daughter Evie and her work supporting other bereaved parents reveals the surprising truths about childhood loss and the healing power of honest, compassionate conversations. In this heartfelt episode, Suz shares the profound impact of her 12-year grief journey — from navigating difficult hospital experiences to writing a children's book that helps other families explain abrupt loss to young kids. You’ll discover why language matters more than ever after a child’s death, and how the words of compassionate midwives and loved ones can unintentionally deepen pain or allow genuine healing. We break down: * The importance of shifting our language to avoid blame and guilt, especially when discussing pregnancy and loss * How to support bereaved parents without minimizing their pain or offering clichés like “at least...” * The delicate process of explaining death to children in a way that is honest but gentle * Why sharing stories, even dark humour, is a powerful tool to cope and connect with others in grief * Suz’s advice for anyone in the trenches of grief and how to foster empathy in loved ones, friends, and caregivers  This episode is perfect for parents who have lost a child, professionals working with grieving families, and anyone questioning how to handle their own lifelong grief. If you’re tired of superficial solutions and ready for real, human stories that challenge the stigma and shame around childhood loss, this conversation is essential listening. Suz is a bereaved mother, volunteer with Sands, and author of a heartfelt children's book about grief. Her openness, compassion, and honesty shine through as she navigates the complex layers of love, loss, and legacy  forever carrying her daughter’s memory as a guiding star. Whether you're walking through grief yourself or seeking to support someone who is, this episode will shift your perspective on loss, reminding us that grief isn’t a problem to fix, but a part of the human experience to honour and understand. You buy 'Born to be a Star' here: Born To Be A Star by Suzanne Brooks | Waterstones [https://www.waterstones.com/book/born-to-be-a-star/suzanne-brooks/9781035809745] Born To Be A Star: Amazon.co.uk: Suzanne Brooks, Nicholas Child: 9781035809745: Books [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Born-Be-Star-Suzanne-Brooks/dp/1035809745/ref=asc_df_1035809745?tag=bingshoppinga-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80401999358371&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=69229&hvtargid=pla-4584001483401932&psc=1&msclkid=f513c3df971918ff6ba6a9c228637f14] You also can find Suz on social media: @mrsbrookslovebooks

S4EP1: Welcome Back!

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443900/fan_mail/new] ------------- We're back for Season 4!!  Most people talk about grief as a shadow they want to hide from. Whereas in this candid conversation, Zoe shares her personal journey through the anniversary of her mother’s passing, revealing the raw, unfiltered emotions that come with facing significant milestones. She discusses how anticipatory grief built up around key dates like her birthday and Father’s Day, and why allowing space for conflicting feelings joy and sadness, pride and pain is essential for genuine healing.  Zoe also explores the importance of redefining what “support” looks like for grievers, pushing aside the pressure to always have answers, and instead offering genuine presence and understanding.

S4EP14: It's the end of Season 3!

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443900/fan_mail/new] ---- In this honest finale of Season 3, I confronts the raw reality of grief, revealing why you might feel like you're just surviving instead of healing. If you're navigating loss, anniversary hurdles, or emotional chaos, this episode is your heartfelt reminder: grief never fully ends, but it transforms. It's almost been two years since losing Mum, and I am exploring how grief continues to shape me, even during the happiest moments like my brother’s wedding and my own. I discusses the heartbreak of remembering loved ones on significant dates, the last days, the missed chances and why these feelings are universal, not signs of weakness. This episode offers solace for those who wonder how long pain should last, emphasizing that "getting over it" isn’t the goal, learning to live with grief is.  Thank you for all of the support.

S3EP13: We are Beyond Grief

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443900/fan_mail/new] ---- Most people shy away from talking about grief, but Kath's raw journey through losing both parents before age 30 is a masterclass in resilience, love, and radical honesty. In a world where grief is often kept silent or hidden, she sheds light on the messy, complicated reality of navigating grief while embracing new chapters of life, like motherhood and marriage. Kath’s story is packed with powerful insights  from the unspoken bond between siblings, the impact of dual losses in quick succession, to her groundbreaking work in holistic grief coaching that transforms how we understand healing. You’ll discover how she balances her trauma with everyday joys, the importance of community and honesty in grief, and why speaking openly about death can be one of the greatest acts of self-care. This episode unpacks the unique emotional rollercoaster of grief at a young age, revealing the stark truth that there’s no 'right' way to grieve. You'll gain practical advice: how to nurture yourself through waves of sadness, break free from guilt, and find beauty amidst pain. If you're feeling the weight of loss or searching for a community that understands, this episode is your reminder you are not alone, and maybe even a catalyst for your healing journey.  Whether you’re in the early days of grief or years deep, her story offers hope, validation, and practical hope for moving forward with love. You can follow Kath on @wearebeyondgrief_ and if you're interested in holistic grief coaching, follow the link in her bio to book a free consultation call.

S3EP12: Guilt, fear & relationships

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2443900/fan_mail/new] -------- In this week's solo podcast episode, I get vulnerable by sharing a note I wrote in my 'Pretty Painful Grief' book. I talk about the anxiety of being a burden on your partner during grief and the guilt of making them experience this too.  I also reflect on micro-joys and how I am trying to change the narrative around grieving past versions of myself.  Link for the book mentioned: Amazon.co.uk : pretty painful grief book [https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=pretty+painful+grief+book&adgrpid=1175379744441971&hvadid=73461454280342&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=69229&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-73461616079453%3Aloc-188&hydadcr=11892_2519376&mcid=db384ed318b83c4badae749fdc64813e&tag=mh0a9-21&ref=pd_sl_4xygre7r9r_e]