Jen Allen sat down with Martie McNabb on this episode of Things That Matter to share a deeply personal story about loss and resilience. After unexpectedly losing her son Daniel to suicide, Jen found comfort in the objects he left behind—especially his skateboard(s), a tangible reminder of his passion and spirit. When Hurricane Helene hit Florida just over a year after his death, it destroyed almost all of Jen’s belongings, but miraculously, Daniel’s skateboard and a few treasured items survived.

Throughout their conversation, Jen opened up about the unique pain of losing a child suddenly, without warning signs, and the importance of sharing these experiences openly to foster understanding and support. She explained how holding onto Daniel’s skateboard helped her feel connected to him amidst overwhelming grief, and emphasized that it’s the stories behind our possessions that truly matter.

Determined to challenge the culture of grief avoidance she encounters, Jen has devoted her life to helping others feel less alone in their grief journey. She launched a YouTube channel, The Ashes We Keep, where she shares her journey, discusses the nonlinear nature of grief, and features conversations with others who have experienced profound loss. Through her voice and her work, Jen is building a new legacy for Daniel—one founded on compassion, honesty, and the power of storytelling.

The Ashes We Keep: https://www.youtube.com/@ JenAllenAshes

Are you looking to build deeper connections, community & legacy with your employees, volunteers, donors, community, alumni, family, friends, residents, team or event participants? Hire me to host a unique story-sharing gathering, playshop, exhibition or retreat. Email me at martie at showandtales dot com

Have a story of a special item you’d love to share? Reach out to Martie McNabb at info at showandtales dot com and be part of a future episode with the Subject line: Podcast Guest✨

If you were asked “What Things would tell your life story?” What Things would you choose? Look around your home, office & even on yourself …. what Things do you surround yourself with & what stories would they tell? Grab my My Life in 30 Things playsheet to list your Things that matter here: https://www.showandtales.com/30-things-story/