Grief & Happiness

Do you have feelings of unresolved grief? There are wonderful resources out there that can help us to accept our emotions and embrace our grief with our happiness.  In this twenty ninth episode together, I am joined by the inspirational Charlene Gorzela. Charlene is a Grief Recovery Specialist and the podcast host of Grief Recovery Now. After 26 years working as a corporate CEO in Chicago, Charlene was introduced to The Grief Recovery Method.  Her life was forever changed when she discovered how this methodology gets us free to go from unresolved grief to a powerful sense of completeness in our relationships. This powerful change in our lives helps free the griever to live life beyond their wildest dreams.   Throughout this episode,  Charlene and I talk about how she went from being a corporate CEO to a Grief Recovery Specialist. Charlene shares the pivotal lessons that she has learned about grief through her personal life, her professional work, and the conversations that she has had with guests on her podcast. Among the many resources out there, learning from other people’s stories are the most powerful in helping us to not feel so alone in our grief. Tune in and listen to the twenty-eighth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning from Grief Recovery Specialist, Charlene Gorzela! In This Episode, You Will Learn:Charlene’s background and her work in grief recovery (1:40)About the Hawaiian practice of ho'oponopono (13:26)That we are all affected by the grief of the world (18:52)The power of acceptance (25:00)How other people’s stories and lessons can help you understand your own grief (30:24)Connect with Charlene Gorzela The Grief Recovery MethodInstagramFacebookJoin the Grief Recovery Now Facebook Group Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What have you done with the ashes of your loved ones that you’ve lost?  Turning the ashes into something beautiful is a great way to honor their life and the beauty of their soul.  In this twenty eighth episode together, I am joined by the amazing Robin Collier. Robin is the founder of The Ash Experiment, a glass blowing company that infuses cremated ashes into their glass. Robin and the four other glass blowers that she works with take a portion of the ashes and turn them into a stunning glass sculpture so family and friends can have an art piece to memorialize their loved one that they have lost.  Throughout this episode,  Robin and I have a great conversation about how she began glass blowing and why she decided to incorporate cremated ashes into her work. Robin talks about the events that led her to be inspired to start The Ash Experiment, the personal losses she has gone through, her perspective about grieving, and so much more. Tune in and listen to the twenty-eighth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning how Robin creates beautiful art from the ashes of loved ones lost! In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Robin’s background and work (00:54)How Robin incorporates ashes in her glass blowing (9:39)What Robin has learned about herself since starting her business (15:03)The problem that Robin believes The Ash Experiment is solving (20:00)How Robin authentically works with her clients (34:47)Connect with Robin Collier Website:  GET 20% OFF WITH CODE  ETT3  Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing pains are a necessary part of personal growth. When we experience periods of struggles and sadness, just remember that they are the catalyst for that next-best version of ourselves.  In this twenty seventh episode together, I am joined by the amazing Kubra Ozguvenc, aka the “Happiness Alchemist”, all the way from Belgium. Kubra is a coach, author, and international speaker who is on a mission to inspire and encourage other women to live a life up to their potential. She is also a scientist and shares her ways to combine science and spirituality to shift one's reality with ease & joy. Kubra has started the Be Boldly You Movement to support more women so they can show up unapologetically and boldly in life, love, and business.  Throughout this episode,  Kubra and I have a wonderful conversation about her understanding of emotions- specifically how sadness and happiness teach us about our potential. Kubra shares her thoughts on the impacts that the COVID pandemic had on our emotions, why our emotions are a golden compass for our potential, what the purpose of struggles are, and so much more.Tune in and listen to the twenty-seventh episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning from the “Happiness Alchemist”, Kubra!  In This Episode, You Will Learn:Kubra’s journey to happiness (1:56)That our emotions are our golden compass (4:04)Kubra’s reflection on how COVID impacted our emotions (11:34)Why Kubra believes humans struggle  (16:54)About Kubra’s gift for listeners (20:18)Connect with Kubra OzguvencFREE CourseWebsiteThe Shift Your Reality Podcast Instagram Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger Warning: This episode mentions suicide In this twenty sixth episode together, I am joined by the wonderful Dean Lambert. For almost 30 years, Dean has worked with funeral professionals to help them connect and serve the families facing one of the most challenging moments of their lives: the loss of a loved one. As a father who has experienced the loss of a child, he knows first hand the grief that takes over when trying to honor a life well-lived. Dean is also leading the Love Always Project with a team of experienced subject matter experts and people committed to encouraging people to think more positively and proactively about end-of-life issues and funeral prearrangement. Throughout this episode, Dean and I talk about how his background led him to becoming passionate about end-of-life planning. Dean opens up and talks about the death of his son and what that experience taught him about grief. He also addresses the difficulties that can arise when trying to initiate conversations with loved ones about funeral pre arrangements, what his mission is with the Love Always project, and his recommendations for listeners. Tune in and listen to the twenty sixth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning about the importance of end-of-life planning from Dean Lambert! In This Episode, You Will Learn:Dean’s background (1:00)About Dean’s loss of his son (11:10)How Dean recommends having the conversation with family members (14:42)What the Love Always project is (24:42)Dean’s recommendation for listeners (32:17)Resources Mentioned: Book - I’m Dead, Now What?Connect with DeanInstagramFacebookTwitterLove Always Project Website Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestThe Grief and Happiness AllianceBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What tools do you use to process your grief? Writing can be incredibly therapeutic and helpful when working through the many emotions that come with grief.  In this twenty fifth episode together, I am joined by the inspiring Caroline Nadine Helsing. Caroline is the author of the book Unapologetic: Tales of the Original Party Crasher in which she tells stories about her mother who passed away. In Caroline’s memoir-biography, she includes funny stories from her mother's life, some of which include crashing parties, being with celebrities in NYC, living in Hawaii, and more. This not only is an inside look at her mother’s beautiful life but also the lessons that she taught Caroline along the way.  Throughout this episode,  Caroline and I talk about how writing her book, Unapologetic: Tales of the Original Party Crasher, helped her work through her emotions surrounding her mother’s death. She talks about what her writing process was like, why she incorporated humor within the book, and the signs that her mother has sent her since she died. Tune in and listen to the twenty fifth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning how Caroline has used writing to help her navigate the grief and happiness that she experienced after the death of her mother.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:Caroline’s experience writing her book, Unapologetic (2:40)Caroline’s experience moving from Hawaii back to California (14:35)Why Caroline incorporated humor into her book (19:32)How Caroline’s mother sends her signs (28:30)Connect with Caroline WebsiteInstagramFacebookTwitter Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you nurture your soul? Each of us have our own unique trauma and grief and it’s important to give yourself grace, embrace your grief, and ignite your inner spirit so you can find inner peace.   In this twenty fourth episode together, I am joined by the wonderful Lydia Knorr.  After being widowed without warning, navigating cancer, and overcoming a period of unhealthy coping mechanisms, Lydia began to incorporate a holistic approach to well-being that focused on the health of her body, mind and soul.  Through this approach, Lydia began to see incredible benefits which inspired her to create her program, Discovering Y.O.U. (Your Own Uniqueness) where she delivers keynotes and workshops in the areas of personal growth, connection to self and positive change. Lydia has recently published her book, Ignite Your Inner Spirit, which is full of stories of discovering the spirit-to self-connection and inspiring ways of communicating with the truest essence of you. Throughout this episode,  Lydia and I talk about how the loss of her husband led her to finding inner peace and connecting to her spirit. She shares her thoughts and advice around following your intuition, giving yourself time to grieve, how happiness takes practice, why death is meant to teach us lessons, and more. Lydia is passionate about nurturing her well-being and throughout this episode she shares how she has learned to be happy despite losing her husband and the other challenges she has been through. Tune in and listen to the twenty fourth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning how Lydia’s grief journey led her to ignite her inner spirit! In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Lydia’s experience losing her husband  (0:54)To take note of the energy that inspires you and drains you (14:25)Lydia’s advice for listening to your intuition (18:52)That being in a happy mindset takes practice (23:39)A key moment in Lydia’s journey (25:29)Connect with Lydia InstagramWebsiteFacebookBook - Ignite Your Inner Spirit  Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you seeking a deeper meaning for life? Understanding the science and spirituality behind the human consciousness will lead to a spiritual transformation.  In this twenty third episode together, I am joined by the incredible Dr. Eben Alexander. Dr. Alexander is an academically acclaimed  neurosurgeon and author of Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Afterlife,  Living in a Mindful Universe: A Neurosurgeon’s Journey into the Heart of Consciousness, and The Map of Heaven: How Science, Religion and Ordinary People are Proving the Afterlife. In 2008, Dr. Alexander was driven into a coma by a rare and mysterious bacterial meningo-encephalitis of unknown cause. After waking up on the seventh day, Dr. Alexander began to write about this near-death experience and started reading others. Through understanding the commonalities between his journey and so many others reported throughout the world, Dr. Alexander soon realized that consciousness is at the root of all existence.Throughout this episode,  Dr. Alexander and I have an amazing conversation about his scientific and spiritual discoveries about consciousness, reality, and near-death experiences. He shares his personal near-death experience, the recent scientific evidence that supports spiritual beliefs, what the common theme is among near-death experiences, and how we can all achieve the same spiritual awakening without having a near-death experience. Tune in and listen to the twenty third episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning from Dr. Eben Alexander! In This Episode, You Will Learn:That science and spirituality strengthen each other (3:35)The common theme between near death experiences (8:10)About Dr. Alexander’s story (10:18)Dr. Alexander’s explanation of consciousness (20:42)That you don’t need an NDE for the same spiritual awakening (35:50)Connect with Dr. AlexanderWebsiteBooksFacebook Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you comfortable openly talking about grief? Accepting that loss is inevitable and embracing grief can be incredibly healing, but we first have to open up the conversation about it.  In this twenty second episode together, I am joined by the wonderful Reverend Rich Carlini who is an ordained Unity minister and currently serves the Unity congregation in Davis, California.  He is also the senior minister of an alternative ministry, Transform Myself Inc., A Unity Ministry. Rich is a co-host of The Healing Power of Grief on Unity Online Radio. He teaches Ministry at the End-of-Life for both UWSI and UUMS.  He has been a registered nurse for over 40 years, 25 of them in hospice and palliative care.Throughout this episode,  Reverend Rich and I talk about the importance of being open to grief and challenging society’s ideas of what grief looks like. He shares what his background is, the grief that he has experienced throughout his life, how life and death are comparable, what his teachings consist of, and so much more. Tune in and listen to the twenty second episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning from Revered Rich about the healing power of grief!  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Reverend Rich’s background (1:27)Reverend Rich’s thoughts on being open to grieve (7:17)About Reverend Rich’s current teachings (14:16)Reverend Rich’s explanation of life and death being comparable (19:57)Reverend Rich’s reflection on his parents passing (27:45)Connect with Reverend Rich Unity Center of Davis WebsiteTransform Myself Inc WebsiteUnity Online Radio Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growth and change are inevitable throughout our lives, so it’s important to understand that it is normal to have a different experience processing grief within each stage of life.  In this twenty first episode together, I am joined by Barby Ingle, best-selling author and reality personality. Barby lives with multiple rare and chronic diseases; reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), migralepsy, PALB2-var breast cancer, valley fever, endometriosis and other pain disorders. Barby’s best-selling book, From Wheels to Heals, demonstrates that it is possible to find successful treatment options for those living with chronic pain.  Barby is a chronic pain educator, motivational speaker, patient advocate, and president of the International Pain Foundation. Throughout this episode, Barby and I talk about everything she has learned about grief from both loss and living with chronic pain. She explains her different grief experiences after losing her father, mother, grandmother, various boyfriends, a childhood classmate, and others. Barby opens up and shares how she has continued to choose happiness each day and the grief that comes with living with chronic pain. I hope this conversation with Barby reminds you that we all process grief differently and no one way is right or wrong. Tune in and listen to the twenty first episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Barby Ingle's inspiring story.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:Barby’s perspective of grief and happiness (1:16)How grief is different for children and adults (11:23)About Barby’s loss of her father (14:06)How writing her book helped Barby practice peace (19:33)Barby’s grief around living with chronic pain (21:54)Connect with Barby IngleBooksBlogFacebookInstagramTwitterWebsite Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Losing a partner is devastating. However, hearing stories of how other widows and widowers were able to live in both grief and happiness is an inspiring reminder that we are all capable of loving more than one person in our lifetime.   In this twentieth episode together, I am joined by Jessica Ayers. In 2014, she lost her husband, Justin, to a stray bullet three days after giving birth to their infant son. Jessica turned to writing throughout her grief journey, and she began publishing a blog, The Singing Widow, in 2015, and it's since been named a top 10 widow blog by Feedspot for five years in a row. Jessica’s creative and lighthearted videos about grief, infertility, and mental health issues on her Instagram account reach up to 6 million people weekly. Later this year, Jessica plans to self-publish her first book, a survival guide after losing a spouse.  Throughout this episode, Jessica and I have a wonderful conversation about her journey to finding love and happiness again after losing her first husband Justin. She reflects on the initial years after becoming a widow, her emotions about getting remarried, the stigma about widows moving on, and more.  Jessica’s story is a reminder that you deserve to find love again after loss.   Tune in and listen to the twentieth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning from the inspirational Jessica Ayers!  In This Episode, You Will Learn:Who Jessica is (1:01)Jessica’s reflection on her grief (4:46)About Jessica’s new marriage(6:38)The stigma that widows have (9:!5)About Jessica’s upcoming book (20:21)Connect with Jessica Ayers WebsiteInstagramFacebook Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you remember where you were on September 11, 2001? Grief fell over the world that morning as the planes crashed through the Twin Towers.  In this eighteenth episode together, I am so excited to be joined by the inspiring Inez Ribustello. Inez is the author of the book, Life After Windows, a memoir about how 9/11 completely changed the direction of her life. Throughout the memoir, Inez explains her experience getting her dream job that was located on the top floor of the Twin Towers to the horrors of watching the Twin Towers fall 2 years later. I cannot imagine experiencing what Inez went through and I am grateful for her courage in sharing her story with the world.  Throughout this episode, Inez details the grief that she went through when she lost countless coworkers and loved friends in the attacks on 9/11 and how her career dreams were forever changed. Inez shares how she began to move forward,  where her career has taken her since, and the power of community that played into her grief and happiness journey.  Tune in and listen to the eighteenth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Inez’s perspective on grief and happiness after 9/11 changed her life forever.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:Inez’s experience on 911 (1:27)How Inez began moving forward (9:10)Where Inez took her career afterwards (18:30)An excerpt from Inez’s book, Life After Windows (25:16)Connect with Inez RibustelloBook - Life After Windows Instagram Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What tools have helped you to express and move through the emotions of grief and happiness? Whether it is writing, speaking, support groups, or the many other tools and resources, lean into what helps you process your feelings.  In this seventeenth episode together, I am so excited to be joined by the wonderful John Polo.  In January of 2016, John lost his wife, Michelle, to cancer. This loss led John into intense and deep grieving consumed by desperation and despair, and he held on long enough until he found hope. And he slowly rebuilt, turning to writing to process his emotions.  Today John helps others through his social media, books, coaching, workshops, speeches and podcasts.  He is the author of three books, host of two podcasts and has worked with clients on thousands of coaching sessions. From grief to dating, self-growth and everything in between, John offers a style of coaching that is personalized and unique for each individual. Throughout this episode, John vulnerably shares the story of losing his wife Michelle to cancer. He talks about the benefits that writing has provided him throughout his grieving, what his perspective is on grief and happiness, why we have to be our own biggest supporter during grief, and so much more. I really enjoyed this conversation with John and I hope his insights and lessons help you along your grief and happiness journey.  Tune in and listen to the seventeenth episode, and join me in learning how John continues to live with grief and happiness since losing his wife Michelle.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About John’s grief journey (1:32)About the writing workshops John hosts (6:42)John’s perspective on grief and happiness (12:30)The power of expressing support (17:30)To become your own biggest supporter throughout your grief (31:11)Connect with John Polo WebsiteInstagramFacebookTwitterPodcast - My Person Died TooPodcast - Gonna Love Me 2Books  Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you know when you’re ready to graduate from the pain of your grief? In this sixteenth episode together, I am so excited to have the inspiring Sherrie Dunlevy with me today. Sherrie is a former NBC News Anchor where she covered the Wheeling, WV area for nearly 30 years both on television and radio. Today she is a best selling author, inspirational speaker, Founder of the Graduating Grief Academy, and host of the Graduating Grief podcast. Sherrie’s book “How Can I Help?” was written to help people know what to say and do when the people they love and care about are hurting. As a bereaved mother, Sherrie is on a mission to remind people that it is possible to graduate from grief and live in purpose, passion, and joy!   Throughout this episode, Sherrie talks about her grief journey after losing her son that has led her to pursue a grief focused career. Sherrie explains the value that she provides in her book, How Can I Help?, how she helps others to move past their pain through the Graduating Grief Academy, and ultimately why it’s important to embrace the light that you have and release the pain. We often hear the phrase “time heals everything”, but that mindset just keeps us stuck in our pain. If we want to move beyond the pain of grief, we have to take action to move from living in darkness to light.  Tune in and listen to the sixteenth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning from Sherrie about graduating from grief!   In This Episode, You Will Learn:How Sherrie became inspired to do the grief work she is doing today (4:06)About Sherrie’s book, How Can I Help? (13:58)The two myths about grief (17:14)About the Graduating Grief Academy (20:19)To graduate from darkness to light (31:00)That there are gifts within your grief experience (36:36)Connect with Sherrie Dunlevy  WebsiteFacebookInstagramPodcast - Graduating Grief Book- How Can I Help? Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you hiding from the grief in your life? It’s time to stop hiding and embrace our grief in order to live again with happiness.  In this fifteenth episode together, I am so happy to have Patricia Doucet joining me all the way from Nova Scotia. Patricia is a cancer survivor, a divorcee, an artist, a pianist, and a writer. She has experienced a variety of grief throughout her life which has taught her how to  see beauty in life with a renewed sense of gratitude, without hiding in shame, and regret. Since 2008, Patricia  has been encouraging women to never give up on the quest to show up in this world as themselves. Patricia’s story is a reminder that you can be happy, despite trauma, grief, and loss.  Throughout this episode, Patricia talks about the five points of grief that she has experienced in her life. Each of these events have led her to grieving deeply and are still intertwined in her healing journey. Patricia has an upcoming book, Stop Hiding Start Living: Emerging from the Fog of Trauma, Loss, & Grief, with a Passion to Live that she hopes can help women along their grief and happiness journeys.  Tune in and listen to the fifteenth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning how Patricia has learned to live with grief and happiness simultaneously.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About the grief that Patricia has experienced (1:53)Why Patricia believes that all grief is intertwined  (10:54)How Patricia reminds herself to live in happiness (18:26)To not feel guilty about being happy (24:30)Connect with Patricia Doucet   WebsiteFacebookInstagramTwitterYouTube Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you or someone you know experienced sexual assault? Among the many emotions that healing from a sexual assault can bring up, is grief.  In this fourteenth episode together, I am so excited to be joined by Candice Smiley. Candice is a blogger, social marketer, podcaster, mother, and a survivor of sexual assault. Twenty years ago, Candice’s life was forever changed when she survived a sexual assault from her boyfriend. Since then, Candice has been on a journey of healing and  acceptance. Through her work as a blogger, podcaster, speaker, and as a mother, Candice is determined to create a conversation around narcissistic partners, sexual assault, balancing feminine and masculine energies, setting boundaries, and recovering from grief.    Throughout this episode, Candice tells her story of being sexually assaulted and how she has learned to process the grief and trauma caused by that event. She talks about finding therapy through writing, what happened when she stopped running from her emotions, how she creates boundaries within her life, and the patterns she has broken to turn a corner in her life. I resonate so much with Candice’s story and I am grateful for her vulnerability in sharing her story.  Tune in and listen to the fourteenth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning how Candice has navigated the grief caused by sexual assault.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Candice’s story of grief (2:27)The trend that has continued in Candice’s life (10:30)What happened when Candice stopped running from her guilt  (15:09)What Candice has learned about setting boundaries during her healing (21:01)How Candice has turned a corner (23:34)That you deserve your truth  (31:19)Connect with Candice   WebsiteLinkedInInstagramPodcastBlog Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you have seniors in your life that you care for? As people age, physical touch tends to diminish but the human need for it remains the same.  In this thirteenth episode together, I am so excited to be joined by Linda Mac Dougall. Linda is a holistic health practitioner, author, speaker, trainer/educator, and massage therapist specializing in seniors and the disabled. Through her work as a massage therapist, Linda is able to observe and assess attitudes, environments, and the special needs for each individual senior. Linda is the author of the book, The SPIRIT Method of Massage for Seniors: Raising the Bar, in which she shares the importance of senior care and how to be your best self while caring for others. Linda’s experience working with seniors has taught her that the power of touch is immense, especially for those that don’t get it anymore.  Throughout this episode, you will learn what Linda has discovered about taking care of seniors. She explains the similarities she has found between the needs of the developmentally disabled and seniors, what causes and contributes to depression in seniors, why she wrote her book The SPIRIT Method of Massage for Seniors: Raising the Bar, what SPIRIT Method stands for, and so much more. Linda’s work is helping countless seniors feel properly loved and cared for and I’m excited for you to hear our conversation.  Tune in and listen to the thirteenth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning from Linda how we can use the SPIRIT Method for proper senior care and connection! In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Linda’s background (1:26)The benefits of massages for seniors (3:30)About Linda’s book, The SPIRIT Method of Massage for Seniors: Raising the Bar (7:58)How medications can impact seniors (22:27)What the SPIRIT Method stands for (26:24)Connect with Linda  WebsiteLinkedInBook - The SPIRIT Method of Massage for Seniors: Raising the Bar  Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you let grief take over your life? Seeking joy and laughter amidst the grieving process is so important so you can embrace life after loss.  In this twelfth episode together, I am so excited to be joined by Allen Klein. After his wife died at age 34 from a rare liver disease, Allen began to recognize how important it was for him to find the happiness within the grief. He has since written over 30 books including The Healing Power of Humor, The AWE Factor, and Embracing Life After Loss: A Gentle Guide for Growing Through Grief. Allen has also presented a TEDx talk on the power of intention, the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Applied Therapeutic Humor, and a Toastmasters Communication and Leadership Award winner. Allen speaks to audiences worldwide about the importance of finding the laughter and happiness within life’s not-so-funny moments.  Throughout this episode, you will learn about the death of Allen’s wife, what he learned along his grieving journey, his recommendations for embracing life after loss, the importance of gratitude, and so much more. Allen’s simple but profound steps will help anyone who is looking for guidance to get through the grieving process.  Tune in and listen to the twelfth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Allen’s story and how we can all embrace life after loss!  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Allen’s background (1:04)How the death of his wife inspired Allen to write his book, Embracing Life After Loss (2:55)Allen’s steps for dealing with grief (10:09)Allen’s number one tip for grievers  (18:53)Why laughter is important while grieving (24:17)Connect with Allen WebsiteTEDx TalkBook: Embracing Life After Loss  Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do signs show up in your life that are sent from loved ones that you’ve lost? These symbols and messages are an amazing representation of living with grief and happiness.  In this eleventh episode together, I am so excited to be joined by Brent Scarpo. Brent’s two passions in the life coaching and entertainment industry. He is a former casting director and has worked on iconic films such as The Shawshank Redemption, Air Force One, That Thing You Do, and Matilda. Today, Brent is an intuitive life coach specializing in helping teens, college students, and millennials transform their mindset around careers and relationships. Throughout his life, Brent says that the biggest challenge he has ever had to face is the loss of his mother. As Brent says, we prepare for life but we don’t prepare for death. Years after her passing, Brent continues to celebrate his mother’s life, living with both joy and grief.  Throughout this episode, you will learn about the miraculous red balloon stories that have shown Brent that his mother is always with him. These stories will have you in awe and serve as a reminder that we are never without those that have transitioned. You will also learn about Brent’s upcoming books, how he continues to find joy in the difficult moments, and what his advice is for listeners.  Tune in and listen to the eleventh episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Brent’s journey to living with grief and happiness!  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Brent’s background and lessons from his career (1:30)Who Brent’s mother was and her passing (7:39)How Brent is still learning how to live without his mother (17:58)To discover the joy within the difficult moments (20:36)Brent’s stories about the red balloon (33:26)Connect with Brent Scarpo WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramYouTube Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you prepare for death? That’s a question that isn’t easy to think about but it’s one we can’t ignore.  In this tenth episode together, I am excited to be joined by Amy Bishop. Amy is an End-Of-Life Doula where she works to help her clients create an end-of-life plan so that the wishes of the dying are honored and those they leave behind are supported. Amy is the founder of Cross With Care and has earned the Proficiency Badge with the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (NEDA). She is certified in the End of Life Training from Going with Grace and has completed the Intensive Grief Training with Our House Grief Support Center. Additionally, Amy is a hospice volunteer and a volunteer on The Listening Line. Amy’s mission with her work is to normalize the conversation around death and help people have a better understanding of the support needed as someone nears the end of their life.  Throughout this episode, you will learn about the grief that Amy endured that led to her pursuing an End-Of-Life Doula profession. Amy explains how each of the different losses in her life impacted her uniquely and influenced her to help others. She describes what exactly she does as an End-Of-Life Doula, her own grief journey, and why it’s important to embrace happiness while grieving. Tune in and listen to the tenth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Amy’s inspiring work as an End-Of-Life Doula.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:What an End-of-Life Doula is  (1:08)What led Amy to becoming an End-Of-Life Doula (2:05)Amy’s perspective of how grief and happiness can coexist (11:59)The main thing Amy offers as an End-Of-Life Doula (16:11)To release feeling guilty for being happy (19:55)Connect with AmyWebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagram Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you felt judged during your grieving process? There is no right way to grieve and each person’s process is completely unique.  In this ninth episode together, I am excited to be joined by Melo Garcia. Melo is a licensed and certified grief specialist who is passionate about supporting those grieving. Within three years, Melo lost her father, her child Chloe, and her mother. Feeling isolated and alone, Melo began to build an online community called After Chloe, helping other grievers to realize that they aren’t alone. Melo brings humor and joy to her online community posting relatable grief content, truly setting an example for how you can live with both grief and joy.   Throughout this episode, you will learn about Melo’s difficult loss of her parents and her daughter and her grief journey that followed. She talks about the importance of speaking the language of grief, why each grief journey is unique, how grieving can help you to live after loss, and to forgive those who don’t understand your grief. Melo is a vibrant soul and I am so excited for you to hear her story.  Tune in and listen to the ninth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Melo’s understanding of grief and happiness and how we can live with both!  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About the losses that Melo has gone through  (1:15)Melo’s view on grief and happiness (11:03)That each grief journey is unique (19:29)How grief can help you to live after loss (26:35)To forgive those that are judging your grief (33:38)Connect with MeloWebsiteInstagramFacebookTwitter Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s never a good time for illness or loss. If you have lost someone or are providing support towards a sick loved one all while still juggling other responsibilities, don’t forget to take the time that you need  to grieve.  In this eighth episode together, I am excited to be joined by Phyllis Johnson. Phyllis is the founder and owner of PKJ Consulting where she provides clients with her accounting services. In March of 2019, Phyllis’ mother was diagnosed with kidney failure. This was the beginning of a cycle of health problems and eventually doctors discovered that Phyllis’ mother had ovarian cancer. For the next year and a half, Phyllis dedicated herself to taking care of her mother while running her business and parenting her daughter. In August of 2020, Phyllis’ mother passed away.  Throughout this episode, you will learn about Phyllis’ grief and happiness journey, specifically surrounding the health decline and loss of her mother. Phylliss talks about the ways she balanced her work and parenting responsibilities while supporting her mother  and where she is today with grief. With the holidays around the corner, grief may resurface with the absence of transitioned family members and Phyllis’ story is a reminder that we can still be happy while we are grieving.  Tune in and listen to the eighth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Phyllis’ journey of grief and happiness.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Phyllis’ grief from the  loss of her mother (2:30)Where Phyllis is at today in her grief recovery (6:23)How loss has deepend Phyllis’ bond with her daughter (9:48)Why Phyllis calls her mom her ‘butterfly’ (21:23)What loss has taught Phyllis  (28:25)Connect with PhyllisWebsiteLinkedInFacebook Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you found yourself ‘stuck’ in life after experiencing grief? Many people don’t know how to move forward after they have lost someone and it’s important to seek out tools and resources to gain clarity.  In this seventh episode together, I am excited to be joined by Deborah Atella. Deborah is an international best selling author, certified life coach, Reiki master & meditation guide. Deborah hosts the aTELLa LIKE IT IS podcast & created the Sisterhood of What Next Facebook Group to help women find clarity and confidence. Whether it’s navigating grief or discovering a new career, Deborah loves helping people uncover new ways to live their best lives and provides her personal frameworks in her book, Is This Job My Jam? When Deborah was just 7 months old, her mother’s 19 year old brother passed away. Deborah spent the first few years of her life going to the cemetery every day with her grandmother, who showed her that you can live with both grief and happiness. Having also had a near death experience and additional loss in her life, Deborah knows first-hand that life is too short and continues to live each day with joy.  Throughout this episode, you will learn about Deborah’s experience growing up surrounded by grief, the details of her near death experience, the beneficial frameworks that she provides in her book, Is This Job My Jam?, her advice for someone grieving, and more. Though Deborah’s story of grief and happiness is unique, there are pieces that we can all relate to and learn from.  Tune in and listen to the seventh episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning how Deborah lives with grief and happiness.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:Deborah’s experience growing up with grief (1:49)About Deborah’s near death experience (5:07)How Deborah’s book can help you (18:51)Deborah’s advice for someone grieving (26:25)Connect with Deborah AtellaBook - Is This Job My Jam?WebsiteInstagramFacebookFREE PDFPodcast - aTELLa LIKE IT  Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterLoving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you or a loved one live with depression, grief, or both? When navigating these painful emotions individually or together, it’s important to understand that we are not suffering from our feelings, rather we are living with them.  In this sixth episode together, I am excited to be joined by Rev Rachel Hollander. Rachel is a speaker, teacher, writer, performer, podcaster, singer/song-writer, officiate, performance interpreter, and an InterFaith/InterSpiritual minister. Having lived with depression for the majority of her life, Rachel’s understanding of her painful emotions became hard to distinguish after her father passed away. On a mission to share an insider’s guide, Rachel wrote the book, From There to Here, a memoir that brings light to what it can be like living with depression. Throughout this episode, you will learn about Rachel’s experience with both grief and depression. Rachel tells the story of her father’s passing, her experience living with depression, how gratitude has saved her life, why it’s possible to be happy while living with both depression and grief, and more. I highly encourage you to check out Rachel’s book, From There to Here, to learn more about depression from someone who has lived with it themselves.  Tune in and listen to the sixth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Rachel’s journey navigating and living with both grief and depression.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About Rachel’s background (1:55)Rachel’s reflection of her father’s passing (9:40)The dynamic between grief and depression (16:48)How gratitude has saved Rachel’s life (22:16)The power of living in the present moment (36:23)Connect with Rev Rachel HollanderWebsiteFacebookEmailRachel’s Book - From There to Here Rachel’s Podcast  Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you escape reality through reading? If you are struggling along your grieving journey, turning to fictional stories that focus on grief may help you to understand and  process your emotions.In this fifth episode together, I am delighted to be joined by Emma G. Rose. Emma is a Maine author of contemporary fantasy and mythological weirdness, the owner and founder of the Imperative Press  publishing house, and host of the Indie Book Talk podcast. Thirteen years ago, Emma’s youngest cousin, Nicholas, died by suicide, causing Emma to be overcome with grief. Emma turned to fiction writing as a way to understand Nicholas' death and create an alternate world she could connect with him. Today, Emma is the author of three novels about grief: Nothing's Ever Lost, Near-Life Experience, and Assembling Ella.Throughout this episode, Emma explains the uniqueness of grieving a suicide, how Nicholas’ death inspired her writing, why she incorporates humor within her novels, the ways her grief has changed overtime, and more. Emma’s writing is helping countless people feel comfortable to explore the topics of grief that are scary, emotional, and difficult.Tune in and listen to the fifth episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning how Emma’s writing has helped her and others along their journey navigating the emotions of grief. In This Episode, You Will Learn:The event that inspired Emma to write (1:27)Why the world needs to hear honest conversations about suicide (8:10)How Emma weaves humor into her novels (15:58)Emma’s relationship with grief (21:01)Emma’s advice for anyone grieving (27:34)Connect with Emma G. RoseShop Emma’s BooksWebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterYouTubeTikTok Podcast - Indie Book TalkLet's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“It’s not being happy that you’re grieving or that something has caused you grief, it is that you are allowed to grieve and be happy at the same time” In this fourth episode together, I am delighted to be joined by Bevin Farrand. In November of 2019, Bevin’s husband Mark took her on a whirlwind trip to France for her 40th birthday. Five days after they returned from the trip, the unthinkable happened - Mark did not wake up. Bevin was left to navigate life as a single mother of two children under the age of four and the pressure of running a successful business, all while going through the grieving process. Bevin is now the founder of the Take the DAMN Trip movement, an organization that serves as a reminder for people to take the leap, do the crazy thing, and connect with their loved ones because life is too short.Throughout this episode, you will learn all about the incredible lessons and insights that Bevin has learned since her husband Mark passed away. Bevin tells the story of her and Mark’s trip to France, the reason for his unexpected death, how her children and her are navigating grief together, what she advises other people grieving, and why it’s important to respect others' unique grief journey. Bevin has a wonderful perspective on grief, happiness, and how you can have both at the same time.Tune in and listen to the fourth episode and join me in learning Bevin’s journey through grief and happiness!In This Episode, You Will Learn:The event that is the foundation of Bevin’s work (2:25)How Bevin and her children continue to grieve (7:52)How Bevin continued to honor her dreams (20:25)To respect that everyone grieves differently (27:35)Bevin’s advice for listeners grieving (35:28)Resources Mentioned: Book - The Hot Young Widows ClubConnect with Bevin Farrand:Take The Damn TripCollaborate WorkInstagramLinkedInFacebookTwitter Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you actively choose happiness every day? Happiness doesn’t mean you don’t feel the emotions of the tough stuff, it just means that you’re choosing to not let it consume you.  In this third episode together, I am joined by Leah Sindelar. Leah is a Holistic Leadership Coach & Clairvoyant Lightworker, passionate about awakening the spiritual gifts in others and supporting them along their journey. In 2018, Leah’s father passed away and his last spoken words to her were “Be Happy.” Leah was faced with an overwhelming amount of grief while at the same time trying to honor her father and his last wish for her. Throughout her grieving process, Leah learned that happiness and grief can work together and that happiness is an active choice. Rather than sitting in sadness, Leah understood that life is meant to be celebrated and our loved ones want us to be happy after they have gone to the spiritual realm.  Throughout this episode, you will learn so much from Leah. Leah tells the story of her father’s passing, how she actively chooses to be happy, how she overcame being in denial, and what she has learned about leadership within her work. If you are currently working through the emotions of grief, this conversation with Leah will help you realize that you are not alone in navigating the rollercoaster of emotions you are feeling.  Tune in and listen to the third episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning how Leah is celebrating her father’s life every day by choosing happiness!  In This Episode, You Will Learn:Leah’s story of losing her father (1:06)About Leah’s spiritual journey and her mission (8:55)What Leah believes is a key quality in a leader (21:24)How Leah went through a phase of denial (23:39)Leah’s advice for others grieving (31:26)Connect with Leah Sindelar InstagramCoaching Website Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is a unique duality that comes when facing a celebration and a tragedy at the same time. Instead of using the joy of the celebration as a bandaid for the tragedy, it’s important to take the time to grieve properly while embracing the happiness.  In this second episode together, I am joined by Lisa Herrington, an amazing woman who has discovered a way to overcome her grief with positivity. On the day that she gave birth to her twins, Lisa became a new mother and a grieving mother after one of the twins ended up passing away. Overcome with the happiness of a new child and the overwhelming grief of losing one, Lisa began to understand the role that happiness could play in her grief journey. Lisa turned to writing as a therapeutic way to process her grief and has written a book, Your Amazing Itty Bitty Grief Book, which goes through 15 chapters of how to support friends and family that are grieving. Throughout this episode, you will learn the sequence of events that led to Lisa losing one of her twins on the day that they were born, what led her to writing her book, the habits and practices that have worked in her grief journey, and what she recommends to others currently grieving. Lisa’s vulnerability is inspiring and her story is a beautiful reminder that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.  Tune in and listen to the second episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in learning Lisa’s story of grief, happiness, and how the two together have played a role in her life.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:About the loss of Lisa’s twins (3:39)Why Lisa decided to write her book, Your Amazing Itty Bitty Grief Book (9:50)To figure out what grieving process works for you (21:53)A gratitude practice that has helped Lisa honor her lost child (24:24)Connect with Lisa Book - Your Amazing Itty Bitty Grief Book LinkedInFacebookInstagramWebsite Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grief and happiness are two words that we rarely find in the same sentence, let alone think of them as different parts of the same journey. After an unsolicited and vast experience in grieving, I've discovered that it is possible to grieve and be happy simultaneously, and my mission is to help people realize that.  In this first episode together, I share parts of my journey through grief, a short version of my life's story, and my several encounters with the death of loved ones. We also explore the healing I found in writing, building a community, sharing my experiences, and helping others navigate through their grief.  I've dedicated many years to building groups specifically designed to help people grieving, and I became a Certified Happy for No Reason Trainer. I am also a Grief Transformational Expert and have a Masters' degree in English, with a Concentration in Writing. I have over 30 years of experience teaching writing and composition, writing three textbooks in the process, and I've recently published "Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief, " a book that provides guidance for those navigating rough times.  Tune in and listen to the first episode of Grief and Happiness, and join me in this journey of discoveries, healing, and transformation through a healthy relationship with grief.  In This Episode, You Will Learn:How I ended up living in Maui, broken, almost alone, and desperately looking for the light at the end of the tunnel (1:15)Writing saved my life. How powerful and healing it can be to share our stories (3:18)A letter to Laurie (4:46)How my weekly notes turned into a book (9:17)How we can learn to be more comfortable with thinking of grief and happiness in the same sentence (14:16) Resources:Book: Michael Peck - The Road Less Travelled: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual GrowthBook: Marci Shimoff - Happy for No Reason: 7 Steps to Being Happy from the Inside Out Let's Connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestBook: Emily Thiroux Threatt - Loving and Living Your Way Through Grief: A Comprehensive Guide to Reclaiming and Cultivating Joy and Carrying on in the Face of Loss Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.