Grieving Out Loud: A Mother Coping with Loss in the Opioid Epidemic

As an Emmy Nominated Producer and Film Director, Kay Sumner has been making waves in the entertainment industry. She has an impressive track record, boasting three Emmy nominations and not one but two People's Choice awards. Her claim to fame includes being the co-creator and producer of the renowned show The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan, but her most recent project aims to change the most lives.

Kay, along with her husband Murray, created the film Survivor. The compelling documentary ventures into the real stories of triumph over opioid addiction and the heart-wrenching tales of loss. However, for the Sumners, the film is more than just a project – it's a channel for grief and a heartfelt tribute to their late son. A talented musician, her son's life was tragically cut short by a drug overdose at 43.

In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, host Angela Kennecke sits down with the Sumners to delve into their mission,  their aspirations, and what they hope to achieve through their impactful work.

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Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

Like countless young boys, Chris Herren had an ambitious dream of becoming a professional basketball player. Chris turned his dream into reality, first playing for the Denver Nuggets and then achieving his ultimate goal of joining his hometown team, the Boston Celtics. But the life of a successful athlete isn't all glory. It comes with its challenges—long weekends, time away from home, stress, and pressure. Behind the scenes, Chris was also keeping a secret—a battle with substance use disorder that was wreaking havoc on his mind and body.

In this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Chris opens up about the hurdles he faced, the obstacles he overcame, and how addiction affected every aspect of his life in unimaginable ways. But here's the incredible part—Chris has a powerful message to share with others who might be going through similar struggles. His story is about resilience, hope, and the fight against substance use disorder.

Chris now travels across the country, bringing his story to students, adults, and professional athletes. He's even created a wellness program, authored a book, and his story has been featured in a film to prevent others from going down the dark road of substance abuse.

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Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

Addiction is a complex condition, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution during recovery. On this episode of Grieving Out Loud, Angela Kennecke sits down with a highly respected psychiatrist specializing in addiction care. Dr. Hannah Statz DeVries is also a valuable Emily's Hope board member.

Throughout this episode, Dr. Statz DeVries will be addressing your questions on addiction and substance use disorder. We'll dive deep into the challenges individuals face seeking help, especially in the face of stigma and the misconception that recovery should be quick and straightforward.

Beyond that, we'll explore essential topics for family members supporting their loved ones during their battle with substance use disorder. Dr. Statz DeVries will provide valuable insights into the time and support needed for true healing to take place.

In addition, we'll venture into the most contentious issues surrounding our nation's drug epidemic and addiction, including harm reduction and the legalization of marijuana.

Be prepared for a conversation that will leave you with profound reflections and a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding addiction and substance use disorder. This is a discussion that everyone should hear, especially considering the critical challenges posed by our country's deadliest drug epidemic in history.

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Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

The allure of attention-grabbing headlines, especially those involving public figures and controversial topics like "sex" and "drugs," often captivates our curiosity. However, amidst sensationalism, we overlook the struggles those individuals face behind the spotlight.

Nadia Davis, a prominent lawyer and public figure, experienced such unwanted attention firsthand when she became the target of blackmail due to a sex tape while married to a significant political figure. Through her personal journey, Davis emphasizes the importance of understanding the negative power of shame and the need for compassion when discussing the challenges faced by others. Instead of judgment, she urges us to take a moment to wonder what is really going on in someone's personal life. By doing so, we can use these moments to raise awareness about mental health, trauma, and substance use disorder.

In an emotionally charged episode of Grieving Out Loud, Nadia bravely shares her journey, delving into harrowing experiences that have profoundly shaped her life. From enduring public shame and battling substance use disorder to facing racial bullying and childhood sexual molestation, Nadia's resilience and strength become evident as she shares her triumph over adversity.

Thanks for listening! You can learn more about the charity behind Grieving Out Loud by visiting the Emily's Hope website.

Nadia has also written a book about her experiences and how she found peace and recovery despite difficult times. The book is Home Is Within You, A Memoir of Recovery and Redemption.

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Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

Laura Cathcart Robbins was part of a Hollywood power couple. She was a publicist and the PTA president of her children's prestigious private school. Her then-husband was an actor and director who eventually became the CEO at Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon. However, beneath the glamorous facade of red-carpet premieres and social events, Laura carried a hidden burden that affected every aspect of her life.

Motherhood took its toll on Laura. Anxiety and exhaustion became constant companions. She struggled to get a good night's sleep, and the never-ending demands of work and family wore her down. In her search for relief, Laura's doctor prescribed Ambien. At first, it seemed like a godsend, a lifeline to help her find some rest. Little did she know that this seemingly innocent solution would eventually lead her down a dangerous path.

Fast forward to this episode of "Grieving Out Loud." We're diving deep into Laura's unique battle with substance use disorder. It's a story that defies expectations and sheds light on the complexities of addiction. Join us for this candid and eye-opening conversation.

You can also listen to Laura's podcast, The Only One In The Room.

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Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

Join host Angela Kennecke on this powerful episode of Grieving Out Loud as she sits down with Valerie Silveira, a woman whose journey will leave you inspired and moved. Valerie's impact on the lives of countless individuals dealing with grief, depression, and the challenges of having a family member battle addiction is nothing short of extraordinary.

Valerie's story began with unimaginable challenges as she faced her daughter's harrowing battle with heroin addiction and the traumatic event of her being shot. The weight of depression, shame, and self-doubt took its toll as she watched her daughter make one heartbreaking decision after another. In the midst of darkness, Valerie found something remarkable - resilience and an unwavering commitment to helping others in similar struggles.

Through her own pain and experiences, Valerie has become a guiding light, a beacon of hope for those who walk a similar path. Her journey reminds us that even in the face of unimaginable challenges, strength and purpose can emerge.

Tune in to Grieving Out Loud and witness the transformative power of love, courage, and the human spirit.

Don't miss the chance to learn more about Valerie's incredible journey in her book, Still Standing After All the Tears: Putting Back the Pieces After All Hell Breaks Loose. Find out how she turned her pain into a message of hope and healing for others.

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Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

At first glance, Kate Kerr seemed to have it all—a beautiful apartment, impeccable fashion sense, and was a nurturing mother who ensured her children were well cared for. However, behind this seemingly perfect exterior, a secret lay hidden, unknown even to her closest loved ones. Kate struggled with substance use disorder after a doctor prescribed her painkillers to recover from surgery. Unfortunately, that struggle took a deadly turn that her mother is still trying to piece together.

In this emotional episode of "Grieving Out Loud," host Angela Kennecke sits down with Kate's mother, Deborah Zwicker, as she shares her perspective on her daughter's descent into addiction. Deborah opens up about the shock she experienced, as Kate's appearance and responsibilities seemed to mask her hidden struggle. With relentless determination, Deborah seeks justice for her daughter's tragedy and takes active steps toward preventing future tragedies caused by addiction. She wishes the person with her daughter when she overdosed would have immediately called 911 and taken advantage of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act. 

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Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

On this episode of "Grieving Out Loud," your host, Angela Kennecke, sits down with an incredible guest, Patty Stovall, who knows firsthand that as parents, our knowledge alone isn't always enough to shield our children from the battles of drug or alcohol use.

Growing up, Patty witnessed her parents' ongoing struggle with alcohol addiction. It wasn't an easy road, but both of her parents eventually found their way to recovery. In fact, Patty's mom has become a true beacon of hope, extending a helping hand to others in their own battles with substance use disorder. Inspired by her family's experiences, Patty pursued a career as a professional counselor specializing in grief and addiction.

But life, as we know, can throw unexpected curveballs. Despite Patty's extensive expertise and unwavering efforts, her daughter, Sarah, struggled with substance use disorder. It is a heart-wrenching reminder that no matter how much we think we know, we can't always protect our loved ones from the grip of addiction.

But this episode isn't just about loss. It's also about resilience and growth. Patty shares the invaluable wisdom she has gained through her own experiences, offering insights that can help others who find themselves grappling with grief and addiction.

If you want to learn more about the non-profit Patty set up in honor of her daughter, check out the Sounds of Sarah website.

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Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

In just a few weeks, the nation's capital will witness an awe-inspiring rally that aims to shake the foundations of our country's drug crisis. Picture hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of passionate individuals marching to the White House, demanding attention from lawmakers who some believe have taken too little action.

Leading this movement is none other than April Babcock, but what drove her to become the driving force behind this event? In a gripping and heart-wrenching episode of Grieving Out Loud, your host, Angela Kennecke, delves deep into Babcock's personal journey of loss, grief, and advocacy.

The march to the White House is scheduled for Saturday, September 23rd. If you would like more information on how to take part or get involved in the event, check out The Lost Voices of Fentanyl Facebook page.

You can also follow along during the march on Angela's social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/akennecke/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AngelaKennecke
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angiekennecke/

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Connect with Angela

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For more episodes and information, just go to our website, emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz

Originally released on May 23, 2021

Jessica Lahey is a mother, teacher, and author of The New York Times bestselling book, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed. Jessica, who has been sober for eight years, says her new book, The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence, came out of concern for her own children following that same path. The book delves into genetics, psychology, and the science of addiction and offers practical things parents can do to keep their kids from suffering from addiction.

Read Jessica's blog on her website here.

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For more episodes and information, just go to our website, emilyshope.charity
Wishing you faith, hope and courage!

Podcast producers:
Casey Wonnenberg King & Kayli Fitz