In this episode, Holly Gainsboro speaks with Hank Glassner about his experience as a husband and father caring for his wife, Jordy, who was diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2023. Hank shares how their family, including their young son Brody, navigates caregiving, parenting, and anticipatory grief while focusing on quality of life. He and Holly discuss the challenges of control, self-care, and finding support through therapy and community. They also reflect on communicating with children about illness, the importance of compassion from medical professionals, and Jordy’s advocacy work through her podcast Grief Street.
Hank Glassner is a devoted husband, father and caregiver. Since Jordy Glassner’s diagnosis with glioblastoma, he has stood beside her as she courageously uses her journey to raise awareness through social media and her podcast Grief Street. As a caregiver, he balances advocacy and support while parenting their spirited three-year-old — all while trying to navigate what it means to keep life functional, healthy, and full of meaning in the midst of it all.
Grief Street Podcast: https://www.griefstreetpodcast.com
Grief Street on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefstreetpod
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Produced by Cindy Ballaro with On Track Marketing – cindyballaro@yahoo.com
In this episode, Holly Gainsboro interviews Amber Barbach, founder of the Glioblastoma Research Organization (GBMRO), about her journey after losing her father to glioblastoma in 2018. Amber shares how her grief inspired her to launch GBMRO, which has since raised over $2.7 million for research and awareness initiatives, including podcasts and a documentary. She reflects on her father’s life, their family’s caregiving experience, and the different ways she and her mother processed loss. Amber also discusses nonprofit leadership, the challenges of this work, and the upcoming second annual Glioblastoma Summit in Miami this November.
In 2018, after losing her father to glioblastoma, Amber Barbach founded the Glioblastom Research Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and funding research to find a cure. Since then, she has raised over $2.7 million, supported thirteen fully funded projects at top U.S. cancer centers, and built the largest active digital community in the brain cancer space. As founder and director, Amber oversees strategy, funding, and brand partnerships, while also hosting the podcast Glioblastoma AKA GBM. Recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30, Worthy 100, and other honors, she continues driving global impact in glioblastoma research and advocacy.
You can learn more about Amber and GBMRO here:
Website: https://www.gbmresearch.org/
Podcast: https://www.gbmresearch.org/the-podcast
IG: https://www.instagram.com/glioblastomaresearch/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/glioblastomaresearch
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Produced by Cindy Ballaro with On Track Marketing – cindyballaro@yahoo.com
In this episode, Holly welcomes Dr. Joshua Black, a leading grief and bereavement researcher, for a fascinating conversation about the role of dreams and grief. Joshua explains the different types of grief dreams - those with or without the deceased - and how they reflect a person’s emotional state. He shares how dreams can bring comfort, highlight unresolved pain, or surface as distressing nightmares, along with strategies for working through them. Holly and Joshua also discuss cultural perspectives, dream recall, and his grief dreams worksheet, offering meaningful insights into how dreams can support healing after loss.
Joshua Black, PhD, is a grief and bereavement researcher, speaker, educator, and host of the Grief Dreams Podcast. He holds a master’s degree in psychology from Trent University and a PhD in psychology from Brock University. His research has focused on dreams and waking experiences of the deceased, continuing bonds, bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and bereavement in the context of homelessness. As a leading academic expert in grief dreams, which can involve dreams of the deceased, Joshua has dedicated his efforts to raising awareness about this intriguing phenomenon through his website, podcast (with over 230 episodes), social media (link), and media interviews. He is dedicated to raising awareness of those who are bereaved who are not being provided with the necessary bereavement support. Currently, Joshua works as the Bereavement Initiative Manager at the BC Centre for Palliative Care, where he leads bereavement-related research.
You can learn more about Joshue here:
Website: https://www.griefdreams.ca
Podcast: https://www.griefdreams.ca/podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefdreams
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support& Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Join Holly and Elizabeth as they discuss the topic of dating after the loss of a spouse or life partner, emphasizing that there is no right or wrong time to start dating and the importance of listening to one's own intuition. They share their personal experiences with dating after losing their spouses, highlighting the challenges and support they encountered along the way. Both women emphasized the importance of taking time for oneself, making decisions at one's own pace, and finding a supportive partner who respects one's grief journey.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support& Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach andcertified grief educator. Following the death of her latehusband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on herwebsite: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
I’m honored to welcome Jessica Correnti to the podcast today. Jessica is a certified Child Life Specialist and grief expert who brings both professional insight and deeply personal experience to our conversation. She shares her journey through multiple pregnancy losses and how those experiences have shaped her compassionate approach to grief support. We explore the importance of validating grief, creating lasting memories, and nurturing continuing bonds after a loss—especially in the context of child and family bereavement. Jessica also offers a closer look at her work with children facing difficult experiences and discusses the helpful tools and books she’s created to support both kids and adults on their grief journey.
Jessica Correnti is a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS), author, bereaved mom, and grief specialist. She has written four children's books: The ABCs of Grief, The ABCs of Grief: Emotions & Feelings, Forever Connected, and the forthcoming third and final book in The ABCs of Grief series (title to be released soon, publishing in early 2026).
She is the founder and owner of Kids Grief Support, a private practice providing therapeutic sessions to grieving children and families across the globe through expressive activities, developmentally appropriate diagnosis and grief education, and other support to aid in processing and coping with various grief experiences.
As a leading expert in children’s grief, her work has been featured in Oprah Daily, People Magazine, Motherly, CNBC, Good Morning Washington, New York Family Magazine, Great Day Washington, and others. You can find Jessica on Instagram @kidsgriefsupport and www.kidsgriefsupport.com.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support& Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach andcertified grief educator. Following the death of her latehusband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
In this heartfelt episode, I welcome friend and fellow advocate Shawn Carey, who opens up about the devastating loss of his mother, Wendy, to glioblastoma. From the early days of her misdiagnosis to the strength she displayed throughout her illness, Shawn reflects on the legacy Wendy left behind. Together, he and Holly talk candidly about navigating terminal illness, the unique grief of losing aparent, and how honoring a loved one’s memory can take many forms. Shawn shares how his advocacy work has helped him find healing—and how the brain tumor community, though born of tragedy, has become a place of deep connection and purpose.
Shawn Carey is a dedicated advocate and former care partner for his mother, Wendy, who passed away from Glioblastoma in 2018. Since her passing, Shawn has worked to bring meaningful change for brain tumor patients and their care partners. Focusing on the care partner experience, he regularly advocates on Capitol Hill for increased funding to further research and treatment options. Through his advocacy work, Shawn has partnered with many organizations, including StacheStrong and the National Brain Tumor Society.
Shawn earned his Bachelors degree from Wilkes University in Communications Studies and currently works as a public relations and communications professional. His past professional experience includes financial services, product marketing and most recently healthcare. He currently resides in Binghamton, NY.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
Join Holly and Elizabeth as they discuss when anger arises on one's grief journey. Although not experienced by everyone, anger is not unusual when grieving. Anger is often a protection mechanism for underlying feelings, and it’s important to acknowledge and honor what is coming up for you. Holly and Elizabeth share their own experiences with anger, why anger may surface in relation to loss, as well as helpful tools and techniques for releasing anger in a healthy and supported way.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support& Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach andcertified grief educator. Following the death of her latehusband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has madeit her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
Join me as I welcome my dear friend and guest, Holly Richard, as she shares her personal story of losing her son to glioblastoma, finding a supportive community during the grieving process, connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences, and finding purpose in her pain. Holly’s grief inspired her to write a book, One Hundred and Twenty-Six Days, The Unthinkable Journey, about her heartbreaking experience.
Holly Richard has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). She served as President & CEO of Tammy Lynn Center for eight years, leading strategic growth and expanding services. After the loss of her son, Derek, to glioblastoma in 2019, she became an advocate for brain cancer research and published One Hundred and Twenty-Six Days, The Unthinkable Journey (available on Amazon). Currently, she is Special Projects Advisor for The Arc of North Carolina. Holly also serves on the Board of Advisors for Duke’s Tisch Brain Tumor Center and advocates for improved services for both the IDD and brain cancer communities.
Here are several helpful resources that Holly recommends:
Facebook Page for D-Rex Defenders
Facebook Page Brain Tumor-Loss of a Child/Children
Website for D-Rex Defenders Team for Angels Among Us Saturday, April 26, 2025
Holly Richard’s Book: One Hundred and Twenty-Six Days, The Unthinkable Journey
YouTube Channel for D-Rex Defenders
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You canlearn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
As we step into a new year, the passing of time can feel especially heavy for those experiencing grief. In this episode, Holly and Elizabeth explore how the New Year impacts the grieving process, sharing personal stories and practical strategies to help listeners find a balance between difficult emotions and hopeful moments.
The episode features a transformative four-part reflection exercise designed to help listeners process their grief in the New Year. The questions are:
1. What is one thing you would like to hold onto from 2024 and bring with you into the new year?
2. What is one thing you would like to release from 2024?
3. What is an intention or goal you would like to set for 2025 (not to be confused with a resolution)?
4. What is one way you would like to honor your loved one in 2025?
Holly and Elizabeth offer thoughtful guidance on approaching these questions, emphasizing the importance of self-care and flexibility. They also share their own answers and encourage you to answer them for yourself.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
In this heartfelt episode Holly and Elizabeth dive into the challenges of navigating the holiday season while grieving. They share practical tips, from choosing traditions to creating space for emotions, and explore how to find support and comfort during this time of year. Whether your loss is recent or years ago, this episode offers compassionate guidance, self care strategies, and gentle reminders that there’s no “right” way to grieve. Tune in for insights to help you approach the holidays with grace and self-kindness.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
In this episode, Holly shares her personal experience of losing her mother in July and the journey of navigating grief in the weeks that followed. She discusses the vital role of self-care during difficult times and the importance of acknowledging and processing grief. The conversation also covers the practical tasks she faced after her mother's passing, offering insights, support, and guidance for those in similar situations. This episode aims to remind listeners that grief is a normal, shared experience, and healing begins when we share our stories.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https:/ www.hercreativewellness.com
In this episode we discuss various grief styles and how individuals experience and express grief differently. We will introduce you to four grief styles: intuitive grievers, instrumental grievers, dissonant grievers, and blended grievers. While we emphasize that there is no right or wrong way to grieve, understanding these different styles can help in supporting yourself and others through the grieving process.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website:
https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
Holly and Elizabeth welcome their very special guest, Brooke Carlock. Listen and be inspired as Brooke shares her experience with multiple losses which includes the traumatic death of her 10 year old daughter just two years ago. She will tell us how her book and the title came to be. Brooke will make you laugh and cry (sometimes in the same exact moment) with her wit and candor.
From the scenic countryside of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, author, speaker, and educator Brooke Carlock brings a refreshingly pragmatic and humorous approach to the often somber world of grief support. Her debut book, Grief Sucks: But Your Life Doesn't Have To, is far from a conventional self-help book. It is an unfiltered guide through grief, laced with the kind of candid realism only someone who’s faced staggering personal loss can deliver. Beyond the written word, Brooke is a certified grief educator, the host of the “Mourning Coffee” podcast, and the face behind the YouTube channel “Grief Sucks with Brooke Carlock.” You can connect with Brooke on her website at: https://brookecarlock.org.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
Holly & Elizabeth have received many questions over the past year pertaining to grief. In this episode, join them as they thoughtfully respond to several of those questions, and provide useful & supportive information for you to add to your tool kit.
Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
Join Holly and Elizabeth as they welcome Jody LaVoie, founder of Widows in the Workplace, as she shares her own grief story following the tragic death of her husband, Steve, and found herself thrust into the business world amid her grief. Jody is an inspiration as she now provides support for women who have become widowed and find themselves unexpectedly re-entering the workforce. Jody talks about raising her daughters as a solo parent, navigating work/life/parenting/grief balance, and so much more!
Our guest, Jody LaVoie is a certified coach specializing in supporting widows in the workplace. Unexpectedly widowed at 47 after her husband's tragic shooting, Jody navigated solo parenting three teenagers while managing her business and grieving. Faced with a lack of resources for career-driven widows like herself, Jody transformed her experience into a mission. Now, she empowers widows through personalized coaching, her online courses and free monthly community calls helping them rediscover joy and embrace life after loss. Jody holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago, is a certified coach with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) holding her Associate Certified Coach (ACC) Certification, she is a certified grief educator and is a Certified High Performance Coach. You can find her at www.widowsintheworkplace.com as well as other SM platforms under Widows in the Workplace.
Holly Gainsboro is a Certified Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist, a Certified Grief Educator, and founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: www.hercreativewellness.com
Join Holly and Elizabeth as they acknowledge that New Years Eve and planning for 2024 isn't always the hype it is made out to be, especially when grieving a loss. They will both share their own NYE stories after the deaths of their late husbands, Brian and Steven, as well as new rituals they have created with their families. Listen along for some of their favorite tips and tools in navigating this time of year. Elizabeth and Holly hold space, as always, for those who are navigating their grief journey during this holiday season. You get to be wherever you are and do whatever you need for yourselves!
Holly Gainsboro is a Certified Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist, a Certified Grief Educator, and founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
Thanksgiving can bring up all sorts of emotions and memories. You get to feel them all - no matter what your family and friends say! Listen in as Holly shares her own story about her first holiday without Steven, and where she is now 13 years later. She also provides you with some ideas/activities to honor your feelings and your memories. Wondering how to respond to people about the upcoming holiday? Holly has some tips on responses for you.
Elizabeth and Holly wish you all a peaceful Thanksgiving - and remember you get to do it your way!!
Holly Gainsboro is a Certified Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist, a Certified Grief Educator, and founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
Join us as we welcome, Mandy Bird, L.P.C. & co-author of Tears are the Source of Your Passion: The Power of Authenticity & Grief.
Mandy shares her own experiences with grief, and how she took her own pain to be a present for others. In this episode, Mandy takes us through the magnificence of the book she co-authored with her dear friend, Chris Saade, which provides meaningful and gentle steps in embracing one's grief and hope. This book is a must for grievers and practitioners.
Guest
Mandy Bird is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and has been delivering her brand of hope and heart-centered therapy from the stage, the sound booth and through dynamic personal counseling sessions since 1993. She is a benevolent advisor, inspired author, and profoundly intuitive counselor and teacher whose personal experience with loss and tragedy helped awaken her to her true purpose as a loving healer and grief guide. She started the Finding Hope Podcast as her creative response to the pandemic and produced 4 Seasons. Mandy considers it her purpose to free the hearts of those experiencing loss by literally loving their hearts into action. It is her highest wish that we live our authentic and purposeful lives with power and joy. The book that she co-authored with Chris Saade, Tears are the Source of Your Passion, the power of authenticity & grief is available on Amazon. You can find her on Facebook at Mandy Bird, and on Instagram at Counselor Mandy.
Hosts
Holly Gainsboro is a Certified Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist, a Certified Grief Educator, and founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
Join Holly and Elizabeth as they discuss the idea of guilt and how it does not truly apply to our grief experience. The feelings that one may have could be regret, feeling badly, or even feelings of helplessness. As grievers we often feel helpless and guilt gives us a false sense of control.
For example, we may have thoughts that begin with:
I should have....
If only…
I am not supposed to…
It’s important to let your grief breathe and allow yourself to sit with all of your varying emotions. It is okay to give yourself permission to let those feelings co-exist. Being in the summer season, there are lots of activities that take place - pool parties, vacations, family gatherings etc., where your grief may be activated. Be gentle with yourself and learn some helpful tips for how to manage your conflicting emotions as well how to communicate your needs to your loved ones.
Holly Gainsboro is a Certified Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist, a Certified Grief Educator, and founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
“Life is ALWAYS creating …so it’s a matter of if we want to be INTENTIONAL about it or just let it happen to us.” ~Anonymous
Join Holly and Elizabeth as they chat with special guest Cindy Ballaro - podcast producer, publisher, and author of “Creating A Vision Board – Jump Start Your Dreams in 5 Fun Steps.” Since 2010 Cindy has guided over 600 people through vision boarding and SoulCollage workshops to help them find clarity and focus in manifesting their dreams. Cindy shares with us the purpose and benefits of vision boarding, how to tap into your own creativity and the importance of allowing yourself the permission to dream. She has experienced her own “real life” manifestations through the vision boarding process and inspires us in how to set up this practice for ourselves. We also discuss how vision boarding is an incredible mode of support throughout the healing journey and serves as a powerful tool for those grieving.
"Creating A Vision Board - Jump Start Your Dreams in 5 Fun Steps" (Audible, Paperback & EBook): http://bit.ly/3Nbbrnj
You can reach out to Cindy on FaceBook at: https://www.facebook.com/sunflowerhousepublishing
Holly Gainsboro is a Certified Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist, a Certified Grief Educator, and founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com
Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com
