In this moving episode of The Grief Grantor, I share a personal story that forever changed my understanding of grief and its physical manifestations. Reflecting on times spent with my mother during her acupuncture sessions, I recall the revelation that grief had found a home in her lungs. This insight was a pivotal moment, highlighting the silent weight of unshed tears in the face of her lung condition and cancer.
Today, I recognize similar signs within myself when grief begins to consume me—a noticeable shortness of breath. To navigate these moments, I turn to breathing exercises, journaling, and the comfort found in audiobooks.
We are honored to have Julie Peters, an intuitive body-based counselor, join us. Julie's work, including her insightful article "Spiritual Self-Care for Lung Season" in Spirituality and Health Magazine, explores the profound connection between our lungs and grief. Julie will share her journey of recognizing and releasing grief from her lungs, offering wisdom on embracing grace through this process.
Julie also discusses her recovery rituals and practices, and the transformative power of opening one's heart to love once more. Reflecting on her own experiences and the evolution of her worldview, Julie brings a deep understanding of how we can honor our grief journey, inspired by the King of Pentacles tarot card reading.
This episode is a testament to the healing journey of grief—reminding us that through stillness and unlearning, we find our path to healing. Grief, as Julie poignantly notes, is not just about loss but about the work of unlearning and healing from trauma.
#TheGriefGrantor #HealingBreath #GriefInOurLungs #JuliePeters #SpiritualSelfCare #UnlearningGrief #TarotHealing #KingOfPentacles

#GriefGrantor #LoriSpivey #TraumaToTransformation
In this deeply moving episode of 'The Grief Grantor,' I have the profound honor of sitting down with Lori Spivey, an inspiring Energy Practitioner and the founder of Energgirl LLC. Lori's story is one of resilience and rediscovery following a life-altering event in 2017 when she was struck by a drunk driver, resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
Lori opens up about the intense aftermath of the accident, from the isolating days spent in a dark room, overwhelmed by sound and emotion, to the unexpected blessings that emerged from her darkest hours. She reflects on the profound gratitude she felt for simply being alive, even amidst physical pain and mental turmoil.
In our conversation, Lori shares the pivotal moments of her healing journey, including her experiences with neurologists and psychologists. Faced with a daunting prognosis and a dependency on medication, Lori's path took a transformative turn when she was introduced to energy work. She candidly discusses her initial skepticism and the remarkable sense of liberation she felt after just two sessions, leading to her being medication-free.
Lori dives into the depths of grief that accompany trauma, exploring the complexities of gestational and familial trauma. Her story is a powerful exploration of the human spirit's capacity to find healing and hope in the most challenging circumstances.
Lori’s journey is a reminder of the power of mindset, the gift of receiving, and the ongoing process of self-forgiveness. She leaves us with a message of hope and the affirmation that everything in our lives, even the most painful experiences, can ultimately lead to our greater good.
Join us for an episode that is not just a story of survival, but a testament to the incredible journey of healing, forgiveness, and gratitude.
Connect with Lori:
https://www.energgirlllc.com/
#GriefGrantor #LoriSpivey #TraumaToTransformation #HealingJourney #EnergyHealing #GratitudeInPain #ForgivenessJourney #MindsetMatters #TraumaticBrainInjury #HopeInHealing

#MariaBelanic #StrengthInGrief #FaithAndAdvocacy
On this profound episode of 'The Grief Grantor', I sit with Maria Belanic, a beacon of strength and a Certified Grief Educator mentored by the esteemed David Kessler. Maria's world was shaken to its core when she faced the heart-wrenching loss of her son to a rare form of blood cancer at just 27. In our conversation, she unveils her transformative journey from the depths of pain to finding a purpose so powerful it could light the darkest paths for others.
Maria recounts the harrowing experiences and the emotional whirlwinds that come with a terminal prognosis. She tells us of the moment she chose hope over despair, advocacy over acceptance when doctors predicted only 48 hours for her son. Her fierce demand for discretion preserved her son's hope, gifting him three more precious months of life.
In the sacred space of 'The Grief Grantor', Maria shares the intimacy of her son’s final day – a room filled with love, prayer, and the undeniable presence of spirit. It's a testament to the power of human connection at life's end.
Our discussion moves through the evolving faces of support, from the communal gathering of a celebration of life to the quieter, often overlooked milestones that follow. Maria confronts the societal pressures that shadow grief, challenging the misconception that one must "bounce back" or "fix" themselves after loss.
In a message that resonates with every soul touched by grief, Maria advocates for the power of choice—choosing faith in our fragile moments, choosing our circles of support with intention, and choosing to stand firm in our truth.
You can connect with Maria Belanic:
mariabelanic.com
#MariaBelanic #StrengthInGrief #FaithAndAdvocacy #GriefEducator #ThePowerOfChoice #TransitionJourney #TheGriefGrantor #SpeakUpInGrief #SupportInSorrow #SpiritualTransition

"#GriefGrantor #PratibhaDey #HealingJourney In this deeply moving episode of 'The Grief Grantor,' I have the honor of speaking with Pratibha Dey, a beacon of strength and transformation. Pratibha, who has journeyed through the pain of domestic violence to a path of wholeness, is not only the founder and host of 'Chai Together' but also a guiding light in the community. Pratibha's story is one of profound gratitude, resilience, and self-discovery. She shares with us how the difficult experience of aborting twins led to a significant transformation in her life, birthing her impactful show as a result of her grief. Pratibha opens up about the complex emotions she faced, including depression and suicidal thoughts, and the deep-seated cultural stigma around her children being of mixed race. Her healing journey is a testament to the power of holistic self-care, embracing practices such as yoga, healthy eating, and connecting with nature. A poignant moment of revelation came to her as a simple drop of water fell from a leaf, reminding her of life's enduring beauty. This experience, captured in photographs, stands as a reminder of how far she has come. Pratibha also dives into the importance of dealing with shame and societal opinions, sharing her insights on how these can impact our decisions. She emphasizes the transformative power of therapy, art, and open vulnerability in navigating through grief. In revisiting the painful day of her abortion, Pratibha found gratitude in its completion and has bravely chosen to share her story with the world, advocating for openness and seeking help. Her journey from revival to advocacy is a compelling reminder of the strength and resilience within us all. Join us on this episode as Pratibha Dey inspires with her story of turning tragedy into a powerful advocacy for life and healing. Connect with Pratibha: https://www.instagram.com/chaitogether/ #GriefGrantor #PratibhaDey #HealingJourney #OvercomingAbortion #EmpowermentInGrief #CulturalStigma #HolisticHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #SurvivorStrength"

"#GriefGrantor #ChildrensGriefAwareness #InnerChildHealing Welcome to a special episode of 'The Grief Grantor,' as we delve into the heart of Children’s Grief Awareness Month with my resident guest, Laura Brennan Ballet, author of 'The Science of Empowerment.' Today, we explore the tender intersections of grief, parenting, and the profound act of nurturing our inner child. Laura, a mother of two, enlightens us on the transformative power of connecting with one's inner child, especially when guiding children through their own grief. She eloquently highlights how healing is nurtured through the bonds we share with our children and the importance of embracing every evolving emotion grief brings. In our conversation, Laura emphasizes gratitude as a lifeline in turbulent times. She shares how parents can cherish the rich bonds their children form with grandparents, a connection they themselves might have missed out on. This perspective shift is a gateway to realizing the support systems our children have, which we as parents may not have experienced. Addressing the challenges parents face during grief, Laura advocates for embracing emotions and seeking beauty in an elevated, empowered life. She prompts a reflective question: ""What do I need in this moment to foster a bond with my child that differs from my own childhood experiences?"" Furthermore, Laura discusses the importance of open communication in grief. She shares her personal practice of being transparent with her daughters about her grief process, asking for space when needed, and encouraging them to express their feelings through journaling. This approach not only maintains harmony but also strengthens familial bonds. Wrapping up our insightful discussion, Laura speaks to the power of forgiveness and the liberating act of releasing unforgiveness. She invites us to recalibrate and expand beyond our grief, leaving behind negativity to embrace a fuller, more compassionate existence. Join us on this journey of understanding, healing, and growth, as we uncover the beauty and strength within grief's complexities. Connect with Laura Brennan Ballet: www.linkedin.com/in/laura-brennan-ballet-bb426751 https://www.facebook.com/laura.brenna... https://thescienceofempowerment.com/ #GriefGrantor #ChildrensGriefAwareness #InnerChildHealing #TheScienceOfEmpowerment #ParentingThroughGrief #GratitudeInGrief #ForgivenessJourney #EmpoweredLiving #GriefCommunication"

In an episode that dives deep into the heart of healing, 'The Grief Grantor' welcomes Dana Skaggs, a luminary in the world of psychotherapy, Host of Phoenix and Flame Podcast, and The Queen of Boundaries. Join us as Dana shares her profound insights on the transformative power of setting boundaries, a practice that serves as the cornerstone for cultivating a life of health and harmony.
Through the journey of this episode, we uncover the delicate art of balancing our emotions with the need to distance ourselves from the turbulence in others' lives. Dana guides us through the labyrinth of self-acceptance, inviting us to honor our feelings without reservation and to give ourselves the full permission to experience them authentically.
The conversation takes a poignant turn as we explore the unique sorrow of grieving a still-living relationship fraught with toxicity and guilt. With the compassionate expertise of our Queen of Boundaries, we learn to navigate the sea of forgiveness, challenging the narrative of guilt by probing the depths of our conscience with one critical question: "What exactly do I feel guilty about?"
This episode is not just a dialogue; it's a masterclass in emotional intelligence and personal sovereignty. Dana empowers our audience to assert their space with gentle yet unwavering strength, highlighting the significance of boundaries as we wade through the waters of grief.
She offers us the keys to understanding the control we possess — or relinquish — in our
interactions, and she imparts the strategic wisdom of defining clear objectives when fortifying our personal boundaries.
Join us on this transformative episode of 'The Grief Grantor' as we redefine the narrative of loss and learn to stride forward into a life led with intention, dignity, and grace.
#BoundariesInBereavement #QueenOfBoundaries #NavigatingGrief #HealthyBoundaries
#GratitudeInGrief #GriefGrantor #EmotionalSovereignty #LetGoOfGuilt #DanaSkaggsWisdom
#GriefHealing

#GriefGrantor #FaithOverFear #LornasCourage
In this deeply touching episode of 'The Grief Grantor', I sit down with the phenomenal Lorna Greyling, a beacon of resilience and grace. Many of you know Lorna as an award-winning international model, former news anchor, actress, and the author of the #1 Bestselling book, "Kidnapped". But today, she unravels a story that transcends her public image.
In the face of unspeakable adversity, when her beloved husband was kidnapped, Lorna chose faith over fear. She recounts those harrowing moments, the chilling phone calls echoing with her husband's cries, the deafening gunshots, and the haunting silence that followed. Yet, amid the chaos of officials and media swarming her home, she found gratitude in the solidarity of her support system.
One of the core pillars of 'The Grief Grantor' is the transformative power of forgiveness. Lorna illuminates this by sharing how she and her husband made the monumental choice to forgive every individual responsible for his ordeal. Embracing love over resentment, they exemplified the strength of the human spirit.
Lorna leaves us with a profound insight: In every twist of life, we're presented with a choice. Will we embrace gratitude, or succumb to a victim's mindset? In holding the reins of our emotions, we find our true victory.
Connect with Lorna Greyling:
www.lornagreyling.com
#GriefGrantor #FaithOverFear #LornasCourage #ChoosingGratitude #ForgivenessJourney #PowerOfChoice

#GriefJourney #ForgivenessAndHealing #CreativeHealing
Tune in for a special two-hour edition of The Grief Grantor, "The Secrets of Navigating Loss Through Gratitude," hosted by Portia Booker. This unique panel event features Dr. Dawn Airhart Witte, De’iona Monay, Janna Gosselin, Karla Bonkowski Magnan, Maureen Scanlon, Patrick Meniboon, Dr. Serggio Garcia Guillen, Dr. Shiksha Gallow, and Valerie Thompson, sharing their journey and insights on transforming grief with gratitude. From the alchemy of turning pain into appreciation, through the scientific benefits of gratitude in grieving, to personal and cultural stories of loss and legacy, this event explores the profound impact of gratitude on healing.
Join us for an enlightening journey through topics like "The Science of Grieving with Gratitude," "Legacy of Love," and "Forgiveness and Gratitude," enriched with heartwarming music and visuals that promise hope and renewal. Whether you're seeking solace in your grief or looking to deepen your understanding of loss and gratitude, this event is a heartfelt invitation to discover the healing power of gratefulness amidst life's greatest challenges.
#ForgivenessAndHealing #CreativeHealing #ResilienceInLoss #UnimaginableLoss #GriefAwareness #GriefJourney #GratitudeHeals #GriefToGratitude #EmbraceGratitude #TheGriefGrantorEvent

#HealingJourney #MovingOn #NavigatingLoss
Welcome to The Grief Grantor, where today's conversation promises to touch individuals and shine a light on the pathways of grief with Gina Moffa, LCSW, an expert in grief and trauma therapy. As the author of Moving On Doesn’t Mean Letting Go: A Modern Guide to Navigating Loss, Gina brings her insights into the multifaceted nature of grief, guiding us through her journey of writing a memoir that serves as a modern-day guide for those navigating the storms of loss.
What does it take to write a book that challenges the conventional narratives of grief? How do we embrace 'grief falls' and learn to show ourselves grace during the transition anniversaries? Gina not only addresses these questions but also explores the concept of prescriptive non-fiction, offering a roadmap for intentional living after a significant loss. Through her personal reflections on the evolution of her understanding of grief—shaped by the loss of her beloved mother—Gina opens up about the profound transformations that await us on the other side of sorrow.
This episode also shines a light on the significance of honoring traditions with loved ones who have transitioned, and the importance of allowing ourselves the space to ruminate and celebrate the eternal love for those who have passed. Moreover, Gina addresses the vital lesson of not comparing our losses and navigating the sometimes lonely journey of grief with tools for self-support and community understanding.
Join us for an episode that bridges the gap between loss and love, offering insights and tools for walking through grief with grace, intention, and a deeper connection to our shared humanity.
#TheGriefGrantor #GinaMoffa #NavigatingLoss #HealingJourney #GriefAndGrowth #ModernGrieving #MovingOn #GracefulHealing #LoveBeyondLoss #IntentionalLivingAfterLoss

#GriefJourney #HealthyGrief #GriefRecovery
Welcome to another episode of The Grief Grantor, where we dig into the depths of grief and find the seeds of new beginnings.
Today, I have the honor of welcoming Dr. Karen Kramer, a revered grief recovery expert, to share her journey of healing and discovery. Dr. Kramer, having navigated the storms of loss with the transition of her mother, father, and niece, offers a personal look into how she found strength and transformation in her darkest hours.
In our conversation, Dr. Kramer challenges the conventional perceptions of grief, speaking on the multitude of ways we can healthily process our pain—be it through tears, meditation, or even laughter. Her insights from her book,Healthy Grief, promise to broaden our understanding of mourning and offer comfort to those struggling with loss.
Furthermore, Dr. Kramer takes us behind the scenes of The VillaVision, her spa-inspired therapeutic wellness center designed to nurture women’s journeys to happiness and wholeness. She reveals how creating spaces for reflection and connection can significantly impact our grief journey.
A pivotal part of our discussion centers on the role of forgiveness in grieving, a transition that often involves letting go of not just people but the pain of past relationships. Dr. Kramer offers invaluable advice on embracing forgiveness as a step toward liberation and peace.
Join us for this empowering episode as we uncover the layers of grief and the potential for personal rebirth. Let Dr. Karen Kramer’s story inspire you to grant yourself permission to grieve, transform, and ultimately, find a way back to light and love.

In this episode of The Grief Grantor, I am honored to welcome Jessica Fabrizi, also known as JFab, a renowned Personal PR Strategist and Global Super Connector. Our conversation opens with the transformative power of storytelling and public relations. I reflect on my own journey shared on 'Groove with Portia,' where I opened up about my mental wellness journey, challenging our audience to ponder: How profound is the impact of your experiences? Your story could be the key to preventing dreams and aspirations from being buried untold.
We dive into the art of using personal stories of grief and transformation to craft a credible and authentic brand narrative. Jessica shares insights on how super-connecting within grieving communities can amplify personal philosophies and brand messages. We explore the crucial factors in becoming a recognized voice in the healing and personal development space, especially through genuine grieving experiences.
Jessica and I discuss the nuances of navigating new beginnings, the mixed emotions they bring, and how to show oneself grace during these transitional periods. We touch upon the tools that can be instrumental during times of change.
Furthermore, we dive into how forgiveness plays a vital role in networking, helping to build deeper connections with oneself and thereby empowering one's brand.
This episode is a guide for anyone looking to transform their grief into a powerful personal brand, finding strength and opportunity in their most challenging experiences.
#GriefGrantor #FromGriefToGrace #PersonalBrandBuilding #StorytellingInPR #JFab #SuperConnecting #HealingThroughStorytelling #BrandNarratives #ForgivenessInNetworking

#PowerOfSilence #HealingCircles #WomensSupport
In today's deeply touching episode of 'The Grief Grantor,' we are graced by the presence of Michelle DeKeyser, a beacon of empowerment and a guiding light for mothers everywhere. As a Mama Empowerment Speaker, Author, and Coach, Michelle brings a unique perspective on the transformative power of women's circles and the art of holding space for each other's stories.
Michelle shares with us a heartwarming project – a memory book titled “Celebrate Life,” created to honor her father who bravely battled pancreatic cancer. This book, a tapestry of shared memories, serves not only as a tribute to her father, a lover of horses and racing, but also as a source of comfort and connection for her family, especially her mother. Michelle's father had the chance to see this labor of love in its PDF form, a testament to his legacy and the impact he had on others.
In our conversation, Michelle dives into the dynamics of women's circles, emphasizing the importance of deep listening, openness, and the power of silence. She illustrates how each of us yearns to be heard and loved, and how creating spaces for these connections can be profoundly empowering.
The episode is not just about remembering those who have transitioned; it's also about celebrating lives in unique ways and recognizing the depth of connections we forge. Michelle's approach to commemorating her brother-in-law's life and her father's generosity reveals the multifaceted nature of relationships and the beauty of capturing them in lasting ways.
Join us as Michelle DeKeyser reminds us to honor our inner callings, embrace the power of support, and discover strength in our shared stories.
Connect with Michelle DeKeyser:
www.connectingmamas.com
/ mama_connector
#GriefGrantor #MichelleDeKeyser #MamaEmpowerment #CelebrateLifeBook #HealingCircles #WomensSupport #MemoryBookJourney #HonoringLovedOnes #PowerOfSilence #CommunityConnection

In this poignant episode of *The Grief Grantor*, I have the privilege of speaking with Jamie B. Goudeau, a Christian author from Louisiana whose life story is a testament to resilience and faith. Jamie, a mental health advocate, bravely shares her experience with bipolar I disorder with psychosis, introducing us to Lucrecia, her alter ego born from her struggle.
Jamie's journey to acceptance and healing began at 28, a turning point marked by her diagnosis and the birth of Lucrecia during a period of denial and self-escape. With four children to care for, Jamie's path was fraught with challenges, including a powerful moment of realization sparked by her son's innocent observation. This moment led Jamie to confront her maladaptive coping mechanisms and embrace her diagnosis not as a life sentence but as a chapter in her story.
Through her narrative, Jamie discusses the pivotal role of her family, faith, and the courage to seek help. She recounts the trials of maintaining her medication regimen, the importance of faith amidst doubt, and the transformative realization that her condition does not define her entirety. Jamie's story is one of breaking free from the stigma, finding strength in vulnerability, and the unwavering belief in healing and redemption.
Join us as Jamie offers invaluable insights into navigating mental health challenges with grace, the significance of support and honesty in the healing journey, and the power of giving oneself permission to be human.
#TheGriefGrantor #LucreciaUnveiled #MentalHealthJourney #FaithAndHealing
#BipolarAwareness #StompTheStigma #JamieBGoudeau

On this heartfelt episode of The Grief Grantor, we welcome Dave Roberts, MSW, LMSW, a beacon of hope and healing in the grief community. Marking the anniversary of his daughter Jeannine's transition, Dave shares the profound transformation he's undergone personally and professionally. From his collaboration with Rev. Patty Furino in When The Psychology Professor Met The Minister to his creation of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, Dave discusses the integration of spirituality in grief counseling, the role of education in healing community traumas like Parkland, and the evolving landscape of grief support in the digital age. Join us for an inspiring conversation that bridges the gap between clinical practice and spiritual wellness, offering new insights into the journey of grief and recovery.
https://www.instagram.com/daver3103/
#TheGriefGrantor #DaveRobertsHealing #SpiritualityAndGrief #HealingJourneysPodcast