I’m joined by the incredible Lisa Marshall (The Widow Diaries) to talk about her profound journey of grief as a widow following the suicide of her husband, Alan. Lisa discusses the complexities of navigating life as a solo mother of three, the coexistence of grief and joy, and the societal stigma surrounding suicide. 

Emphasising the importance of support, understanding, and the need for open conversations about mental health. Through her experiences, she highlights the challenges of identity loss, the overwhelming nature of motherhood amidst grief, and the necessity of finding joy in everyday moments.

Our discussion serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of suicide on families and the importance of compassion, connection and support in our communities. 

If you need someone to talk to, in the UK you can call Samaritans 24/7 on 116 123. 

https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

Are you journeying with grief?

DOWNLOAD MY FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-grace-growth-journal

JOIN GRIEF COCOON, my new monthly virtual support session - a sacred space for grief in busy lives: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-cocoon 

Takeaways

• Grief and joy can coexist alongside each other.
• It's important to forgive yourself after a loss.
• Suicide can affect anyone, regardless of their background - it’s important we talk about it. 
• Asking for help is crucial in times of need.
• Grief is a messy and complex process.
• Finding joy in small moments is essential.
• Motherhood can be overwhelming, especially after a loss.
• Anger is a valid emotion in the grieving process.
• Support from friends and family is vital for healing.
• We need to talk about mental health - check in on those around you. 
• There is always hope and life after loss.

Disclaimer: 

This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. 

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanyawilkinson_ 
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

You can connect with Lisa Marshall here:

https://www.instagram.com/the_widowdiaries 

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. 

This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

Chapters

00:00: Introduction

01:23: The Impact of Suicide on Families

03:55: The Journey of Loss and Identity

09:50: Motherhood Amidst Grief

14:16: Finding Space for Grief

18:25: Coexisting Emotions: Grief and Joy

21:48: Understanding Anger in Grief

29:08: Supporting Those Who Grieve

36:01: Advice for Widows of Suicide

44:19: Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

So much grief content tells us that grief is just “love with nowhere to go”. But what happens when the relationship wasn’t loving - or wasn’t only loving?

In this episode of Death on the Daily, I explore the often unspoken experience of grieving someone who you had a complicated, painful, distant or unfinished relationship with. 

When grief our holds anger, relief, guilt, numbness, apathy or confusion alongside, or instead of, love.

This is an episode for you if you’re wondering:

• Do I even get to grieve them?
• Is my grief valid?
• Should I not speak ill of the dead? 
• Why do I feel relieved… or angry… or nothing at all?
• How do I mourn someone without rewriting the truth of the relationship?

You’ll hear gentle reflections on:

• why complicated grief can feel so isolating
• grieving both the relationship you had and the one you never got
• letting go of the pressure to forgive, resolve, or find closure
• why mixed emotions are not a betrayal

I also share practical, compassionate ways to support yourself when grief doesn’t fit the usual narrative - including how to make space for complexity, honour your truth, and care for what your body is holding.

If your grief feels messy, contradictory, or hard to name - this episode is for you.

Are you journeying with grief?

DOWNLOAD MY FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-grace-growth-journal

JOIN GRIEF COCOON, my new monthly virtual event - a sacred space for grief in busy lives: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-cocoon 

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. , 

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanyawilkinson_ 
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  

In this episode I (Tanya Wilkinson) share the powerful but gentle practice of recognising and celebrating tiny wins as we are navigating our grief. Discussing how grief can feel isolating and exhausting, and encouraging you to honour your small achievements as a way to navigate through the weeds of grief. 

By focusing on these tiny wins, you can cultivate self-compassion and recognition of how you are navigating your grief. Including on those most griefy of days where just doing the basics feels like climbing a mountain - it’s important to acknowledge these as much as anything else. 

Are you journeying with grief?

DOWNLOAD MY FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-grace-growth-journal

JOIN GRIEF COCOON, my new monthly virtual event - a sacred space for grief in busy lives: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-cocoon 

Takeaways

• You're not failing; what you're feeling in grief is normal.
• Celebrating small wins is crucial in life. 
• Tiny wins can be as simple as honouring doing the basics in grief.
• Grief rewires our brain and can be exhausting.
• Honouring our truth during grief is important.
• Tiny wins shift us from self-criticism to gratitude and acknowledgement of how much you are journeying with.
• Celebrate showing up, not just results.
• All tiny wins add up to significant progress.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. 

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanyawilkinson_ 
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  

Chapters

00:00: Understanding Grief and Its Challenges

02:49: The Importance of Celebrating Tiny Wins

05:38: Navigating Grief with Self-Compassion

08:48: Creating a Grief Support Practice

11:39: Building Momentum Through Tiny Wins

14:59: The Power of Acknowledging Progress

I am joined today for a profound conversation with Dr. David Casarett, a physician, researcher, and tenured Professor at the Duke University School of Medicine. Dr. Casarett is the Chief of Palliative Care for Duke. We speak about the often misunderstood process of dying.

David shares insights from his extensive experience at the bedside of dying patients, emphasising the body's remarkable biological intelligence even in its final days. 

He discusses the importance of understanding the natural processes of dying, which can alleviate the anxiety surrounding death. The conversation also touches on the cultural conditioning that frames death as something to be feared, and how witnessing the deaths of others can help demystify the experience and reduce fear for ourselves when our time comes.

Are you journeying with grief?

Download my FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-grace-growth-journal

JOIN GRIEF COCOON, my new monthly virtual event - a sacred space for grief in busy lives: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-cocoon

Takeaways

• Witnessing death can reduce anxiety about our own mortality.
• The body's mechanisms during dying are often misunderstood.
• Palliative care should be integrated earlier in the treatment process.
• Conversations about end-of-life care are essential for families.
• Dying is often less dramatic than portrayed in media.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. 

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

David’s book, “Undiscovered Country: A Doctor’s Travel Guide To The End Of Life” is out now. 

To connect with David, please visit:

• Website: www.casarett.com
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-casarett

This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  

Chapters

00:00: The Nature of Dying

01:50: Understanding Biological Processes at the End of Life

08:12: The Role of Palliative Care

12:58: Navigating Treatment Decisions

17:36: Cultural Perspectives on Death

23:06: Advocating for End-of-Life Care

28:55: The Importance of Family Involvement

35:39: The Wisdom of the Dying

This guided meditation invites you into deep relaxation through a gentle body connection practice inspired by the starry night sky. 

As you are guided through each part of your body, you’ll visualise a star shining brightly, helping you soften, ground, and reconnect with yourself.

This meditation supports nervous system regulation, body awareness and creating a sense of safety within. 

This practice is especially supportive if you are:
- Feeling exhausted or anxious due to grief

- Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or disconnected

- Looking for a calming body scan meditation

- Seeking deep relaxation or a meditation for sleep

- Wanting to feel safe, present, and at home in your body

You can listen lying down or seated comfortably. Allow yourself to be guided, moving at your own pace, and resting wherever you need.

If this meditation supports you, please like, subscribe, or share it with someone who might need a moment of rest under the stars.

Are you journeying with grief? Download my FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook here: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-grace-growth-journal

Disclaimer: 

This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice.

This practice invites gentle awareness of your body. Before you begin, check in with yourself and see whether it feels right for you to do this meditation today. You know yourself best - trust what feels right for you.

This meditation is not a substitute for professional mental health care. 

Follow Death on the Daily:

* Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  

* Share this meditation with a friend who might need it. 

* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily 

* YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily 

This meditation is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

In this episode I explore why avoiding grief can feel more overwhelming than actually allowing ourselves to feel it - especially in busy, modern lives.

I share how grief avoidance can be deeply dysregulating to the nervous system, activating our fight, flight, or freeze response - and why this makes grief feel even heavier over time.

Drawing from my personal experience of baby loss as a bereaved mother, as well as in my grief coaching work, I offer a gentle, practical approach to creating space for grief - even when time feels scarce. 

You’ll be guided through a simple four-step “Grief Cocoon” practice designed to help you feel, process, and tend to your grief in as little as 5 minutes a day.

Are you journeying with grief?

JOIN GRIEF COCOON, my new monthly virtual event - a sacred space for grief in busy lives: ⁠https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-cocoon⁠

DOWNLOAD MY FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/newsletter 

WATCH MY PLAYLIST of guided meditations for grief, rest and renewal here: ⁠https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEBSnX0OXjtA

Takeaways

• Grief can be more dysregulating when avoided than when faced.
• Creating space for grief is essential for processing emotions.
• Societal conditioning often leads to the avoidance of grief.
• Naming feelings helps in moving grief from the amygdala to the prefrontal cortex.
• Listening to our needs during grief is crucial for self-care.
• Cocooning in grief allows for transformation and healing.
• There is no timeline for grief; it's a personal journey.
• Practicing self-care can support our nervous system during grief.
• Engaging in rituals can help in processing grief.
• Being present with grief can deepen our connections and purpose.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. 

Access my playlist of guided meditations for grief, rest and renewal here:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEBSnX0OXjtA

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  

Chapters:

00:00: Navigating Grief in a Busy World

05:57: Creating Your Grief Cocoon

12:05: The Journey of Grief and Healing

In this episode of 'Death on the Daily', I, Tanya Wilkinson am exploring the Winter Solstice and its themes of death, grief and deep rest. 

Looking at the importance of rest, reflection, and honouring our grief. Discussing how the solstice symbolises both the longest night and the return of light, encouraging you to embrace the darkness as a necessary part of personal growth and transformation. 

Through journaling prompts, you are invited to let go of what no longer serves you and to welcome new intentions as you move forward into the new year.

Are you journeying with grief?

Download my FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/newsletter 

JOIN GRIEF COCOON, my new monthly virtual event - a sacred space for grief in busy lives:

https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-cocoon

Key takeaways

• The Winter Solstice represents a descent into the void.
• Rest and letting go are essential for personal growth.
• Nature teaches us the importance of honoring seasonal cycles.
• Grief is a natural part of life and transformation.
• Journaling can help in processing grief and intentions.
• The solstice symbolizes both endings and new beginnings.
• We must prioritize rest in our busy lives.
• Light returns after the longest night, symbolizing hope.
• Personal growth requires letting go of the past.
• Embracing the darkness can lead to deeper self-understanding.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. 

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  

Chapters

00:00: What is the Winter Solstice and how can we Embrace it?

12:54: Winter Solstice Journaling for Grief, Growth and Transformation

I am joined today by Kayleigh O'Connor, Holistic Grief Coach and founder of Good Grief where she trains other grief coaches including me. We explore the complexities of grief, focusing on the our patterns of avoidance, what we can and can’t control, and the impact of secondary losses. 

We discuss the role of the nervous system in processing grief and the significance of connecting to and expanding our sense of safety in our body as we navigate grief. Emphasising self-compassion and the ongoing journey of grief, encouraging you to validate your feelings and take gentle steps forwards with grief as a part of you. 

Takeaways

• We often have unrealistic expectations of ourselves during grief.
• Avoidance can manifest in various ways, including overworking and numbing.
• It's essential to validate where you are in your grief journey.
• Taking back control can start with small, manageable steps.
• Secondary losses are often overlooked but are significant in the grieving process.
• The nervous system plays a crucial role in how we experience grief.
• Finding safety in our environment can help regulate our nervous system.
• Self-compassion is vital in navigating grief and loss.
• Grief is not linear; it requires ongoing attention and care.
• It's okay to seek help and support in your grief journey.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. 

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

You can connect with Kayleigh O’Connor here: 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodgrief_uk/
• Holistic Grief Coach certification which is enrolling now for January 2026: https://good-grief.mykajabi.com/holistic-grief-coach-certification-september
• Website: https://good-grief.co.uk 

This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  

Chapters

00:00: Intro and theme

02:26: The Journey of Grief and Avoidance

11:06: Taking Back Control in Grief

15:29: Navigating Secondary Losses

22:35: The Role of the Nervous System in Grief

32:15: Finding Safety and Presence in Grief

Let's talk about the profound impact of grief on Liverpool FC following the tragic death of Diogo Jota. Speaking to the individual and collective experiences of grief within the team, the emotional responses of players and fans, and the challenges of performing when we're grieving. 

The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding grief as a universal experience that affects performance and team dynamics, advocating for compassion and support in navigating these difficult emotions.

Key takeaways: 

* Grief affects every part of a connected system.

* Each person's grief experience is unique.

* Grief is not just sadness; it's a full body response.

* Professional athletes face challenges in performance due to grief.

* Grief doesn't have a set timeline for healing.

* Collective grief can shift team dynamics and morale.

* Fans also experience grief and can honor their loss collectively.

* Organizations need to support grieving individuals effectively.

* Grief can lead to identity shifts and changes in priorities.

* Compassion and understanding are crucial in the grieving process.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. 

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  

Chapters

00:00: The Impact of Grief on Liverpool FC

04:35: Individual vs. Collective Grief

10:21: Fans in Collective Grief

12:19: Understanding Grief in Sports and Beyond

In this episode of 'Death on the Daily', Tanya Wilkinson discusses the challenges of navigating grief during the holiday season. She shares her personal experiences and offers practical tips for coping with grief during Christmas, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion, setting boundaries, and creating new rituals. Tanya encourages listeners to honor their feelings and prioritize self-care, reminding them that they are not alone in their grief journey. The episode concludes with an invitation to join the Grief Cocoon, a supportive community for those dealing with loss.

Takeaways

• Feeling lonely during the holidays is normal.
• Each person's grief is unique and should be honored.
• It's okay to set boundaries with friends and family.
• Creating new rituals can help honor loved ones.
• Self-care is essential during the holiday season.
• Perfection is not the goal; presence is.
• Communicate your needs to your support system.
• Grief can resurface unexpectedly, even during celebrations.
• Join supportive communities to share your grief journey.
• It's important to give yourself grace during tough times.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. 

Follow Death on the Daily:

• Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel  @deathonthedaily  
• Share this episode with a friend who might need it. 
• Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily
• YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily
• Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.uk

This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: [email protected]

The theme music for Death on the Daily is ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Set Free by Katie Gray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, which is used with artist's permission. 

You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  

Chapters

00:00: Introduction: Navigating Grief During the Holidays

02:43: Practical Tips for Surviving Christmas

05:32: Setting Boundaries and Building Support

08:48: Creating New Rituals and Traditions

11:36: Self-Care and Embracing Imperfection

14:26: Conclusion and Invitation to Grief Cocoon