Heroes in Grief

Emilio Parga is the Founder and Executive Director of The Solace Tree, a non-profit grief and loss center for children, teens, adults, and families in Reno, Nevada. He is the author of No Child Should Grieve Alone and many other journals and books for children, teens, and adults experiencing death and loss.

Celebrating 23 Years at The Solace Tree, Emilio has co-founded numerous grief centers in Nevada, and one in New York after September 11, 2001. He teaches courses at the University Nevada, Reno and the Nevada School of Medicine on death, dying and loss, and is frequently consulted to support in the aftermath of traumatic events such as school shootings and mass shootings locally and nationally. Emilio works with athletes at the high school and university level when a loved one or teammate has died. He also facilitates national Zoom Meetings for adults who have experienced suicide and first responders through the Nevada Donor Network.

As a national speaker, Emilio facilities workshops, professional development for schools K-12, coaches, high school teams, universities, and businesses. He also serves as a bereavement consultant/trainer to social services, hospitals, funeral homes, emergency services, and companies.

Solace Tree:

Website: https://www.solacetree.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSolaceTree

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solacetreereno/

X (Twitter): https://x.com/SolaceTree

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

Get Griefy Collective (for anyone helping those in grief): https://get-griefy-small-business-collective.mn.co/share/d6W3Hzr6rS1NIhee?utm_source=manual

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

Bernadette Thompson is an Intuitive Ancestral Healer, a certified Grief and Trauma expert, an End-of-Life Doula, and a trauma-informed genealogist. Her journey began with a spiritually transformative experience through her own grief, an awakening that changed everything and guided her to where she is today.

As the owner of Tell Me Our Story, Ancestral Healing works with those who feel the ache of loss, helping them navigate their grief and find profound healing through Ancestral Healing and Spirit connections. She has been a panel speaker at 2024 and 2025 International Association of Near-Death Studies conference.

Tell Me Our Story, Ancestral Healing

Website: https://www.tellmeourstory.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TellMeOurStory

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tellmeourstoryancestralhealing/

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

Get Griefy Collective (for anyone helping those in grief): https://get-griefy-small-business-collective.mn.co/share/d6W3Hzr6rS1NIhee?utm_source=manual

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

Karin McLean is a writer and spiritual explorer whose life was forever changed after surviving the tragic accident that claimed her younger brother’s life. Through the powerful signs she began receiving from him, Karin was inspired to dive deep into the mysteries of the afterlife. She now shares her experiences and research to comfort and inspire others, reminding us that our loved ones are never truly gone.

Karen's Links:

Website: https://authorkarinmclean.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkarinmclean/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569015283057

Link to purchase Bright Days Do Come: https://amzn.to/4nra3f3

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

Jack Gindi – “PapaJack”

Founder, I Believe In Me Foundation | Creator, Believe. Become. Be You. | Real Estate Entrepreneur & Philanthropist

Jack Gindi, known affectionately as “PapaJack,” is a lifelong entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist who has turned decades of personal triumphs and setbacks into a mission of empowerment for families worldwide.

After building and managing more than half a billion dollars in real-estate transactions—and overcoming bankruptcy during the 2008 financial crisis—Jack discovered that true wealth isn’t measured in square footage or balance sheets, but in connection, belief, and purpose. That revelation became the foundation of his life’s work.

He is the creator of the “I Believe In Me” (IBIM) online course and the “Believe, Become, Be You” (BBBY) movement—transformational programs that teach emotional intelligence, belief, and daily aligned action to parents, teens, and young adults. Jack’s framework, known as the Four Pillars of Life—Body, Being, Balance, and Business— helps families map their dreams and live intentionally through what he calls “Life Mapping.”

Through the I Believe In Me Foundation, Jack ensures that every child, regardless of financial means, can access tools to build confidence and resilience. His “no child turned away” model allows those who can afford to give to sponsor those who cannot—creating a cycle of belief and giving that echoes his lifelong philosophy: “We rise by lifting others.”

Rooted deeply in family and legacy, Jack’s journey is also shaped by the profound loss of his son Shaun, whose vision of helping kids believe in themselves continues to guide every step of Jack’s work. Whether he’s speaking on podcasts, hosting events, or mentoring young leaders, Jack’s presence is authentic, heart-driven, and filled with the wisdom of lived experience.

Today, PapaJack is on a mission to bring emotional intelligence and belief-based living into homes, schools, and communities—one story, one family, one conversation at a time.

Jack's links:

Book time to meet with me

https://ibelieveinmefoundation.com/

https://believebecomebeyou.com/ 

https://www.facebook.com/jack.gindi.90

https://www.facebook.com/believebecomebeyoupapajack/

https://www.instagram.com/believebecomebeyou

https://www.tiktok.com/@papajackgindi

https://www.youtube.com/@believebecomebeyou

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

About Reshma:

I’m a mom, a widow, and someone who knows the heart-wrenching pain of unexpected loss. In 2022, my husband died by suicide. In an instant, I became a solo parent responsible for 3 grieving children. This would be my hardest role yet.

Our loss was unfathomable and I understand firsthand the deep questions, the uncertainty, and the overwhelming struggle to keep going. But through my journey, I’ve discovered that healing is possible, even when it feels impossible, and I’m here to help you find your way through it.

In the midst of uncertainty, I turned to what I already knew: mindfulness. My children and I began practicing mindfulness many years ago, before my husband passed away, but I didn’t fully understand its depth until I needed it the most. It’s helped me stay grounded through the chaos of grief, find light in times of darkness, and build resilience as I faced parenting and life’s demands. Mindfulness has allowed me to honor my emotions, support my children through their own struggles, and rediscover moments of joy during the hardest times.

In addition to my personal experience with grief, healing, and mindful parenting, I hold a Master’s degree in Public Health and am a yoga teacher— trauma-informed and kid-certified. These qualifications, combined with my lived experiences, guide my work and allow me to offer practical tools to help you feel more present, resilient, and connected on your journey. Welcome Home!

Reshma's website: www.reshmakearney.com

Insagram: https://www.instagram.com/reshmakearney/

Email Reshma: [email protected]

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

Hannah's Bio:

Hi, I’m Hannah—a coach, writer, and lover of wild places.

My work is for people who want to reconnect with their whole and wild selves. I weave modern science, resilience psychology, and ancient wisdom to help you navigate life’s challenges and create your own path to aliveness.

Once upon a time, I was a type-A doer—always hustling, always striving. My background is in engineering, endurance sports, and big adventures. I was all forward momentum and high-functioning control.

But the year I turned 30, a wave of deep personal loss cracked my world open. The grief shattered my old definitions of success, and I was forced to rebuild my life from the inside out.

I began unlearning the parts of me that were built for survival instead of wholeness. And I slowly returned to the wisdom of my body, the power of story, and the steady rhythm of my innate nature.

Fast forward to now

I guide others through that same wilderness of uncertainty, suffering and the unknown—through coaching, writing, conversation, and time outdoors.

I don’t promise quick fixes. I offer depth, presence, compassion and practical tools for navigating the very real challenges of being human.

Hannah's website: https://www.hannahrae.nz/

Rewild You podcast: https://www.hannahrae.nz/podcast

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

Nina created the Grief and Light Podcast after the sudden and unexpected loss of her only sibling, Yosef, as an authentic exploration of grief and life after loss. Through each conversation, she aims to give a voice to the griever’s experience, and foster a more grief-informed, hopeful world. 

Beyond the podcast, Nina extends her heart-centered support through The Community, monthly circles, 1:1 grief tending sessions, speaking engagements, active presence on social media, and forthcoming in-person retreats.​

She has been featured in various publications and podcasts, regularly contributes to Get Griefy Magazine, co-authored Resilient A.F.: Stories of Resilience (2025), and completed the Grief Care Professional Certificate Program under renowned psychotherapist and best-selling author of It's OK That You're Not OK, Megan Devine.​

Nina is based in Miami, FL, and open to aligned collaborations, speaking engagements, and opportunities both virtually and IRL.​

Get to know more at @griefandlight.

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

Wendela Whitcomb Marsh is an award-winning author, sought-after speaker, and autism expert specializing in late-diagnosed autism. Following a long and fulfilling career in education, she took early retirement to write. She has had eight books about autism published since then, garnering 6 prestigious book awards so far. She has been featured on podcasts, spoken in many venues, been interviewed on panels, provided webinars and trainings, and she appears in an upcoming documentary about autism, The Neurodivergent Gift: Unboxing Autism. Dr. Wendy is also the founder and CEO of Adult Autism Assessment & Services, a neurodiversity-affirming group practice. Her team of clinicians provides autism and ADHD assessment, counseling, and life coaching for adults across the country, identifying autism even when it has been masked well.

Wendela has three adult children, two of whom are transgender and autistic. Her late husband of 27 years was also autistic. Dr. Wendy holds a religious studies doctorate in pastoral counseling with specialization in autism. Since retiring from a 40 year career in special education and educational psychology, she moved from California to Oregon with her three children. Now she writes books about autism, has a nationwide group practice providing adult autism assessment and services, and has an online church, The SWAN Church: Scripture & Worship for All Neurotypes, to provide spiritual support for people who have felt marginalized, including those who are neurodivergent and/or on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.

Wendy's website: https://wendelawhitcombmarsh.com/

Wendy's books: https://amzn.to/4pz9EcW

Adult Autism Assessment: https://adultautismassessment.com/

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

Jane Meakin is a gifted international medium known for her compassionate and evidential readings that bring comfort and connection to those seeking messages from the spirit world.

With warmth and sensitivity, she helps reconnect you with loved ones who have passed, delivering messages of love, reassurance, and healing.

Jane is especially honoured to work with Helping Parents Heal, offering bereaved parents a heartfelt bridge to their children in spirit. Her readings provide deep personal insight, peace, and spiritual support - all from the comfort of your own home via a Zoom video call.

Jane's website: Jane Meakin | International Medium

Helping Parents Heal: www.helpingparentsheal.org

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!

Tara Accardo is a Grief and Soul Purpose Coach and host of the Life With Grief Podcast. After losing her parents to cancer within six months of each other and navigating a traumatic birth experience, her journey of grieving led her to create Losses Become Gains—a community for fellow grievers that serves tools, resources, inspiration, and guidance on how to navigate grief, loss, and moving forward in life with both in tow. 

Through her podcast, one-on-one coaching and other modalities of support, Tara’s passion, calling, and commitment to uplifting and empowering fellow grievers runs deep.

Losses Become Gains website: https://lossesbecomegains.com/

Work with Tara: https://lossesbecomegains.com/work-with-

tara

Life With Grief podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-with-grief-podcast/id1688812587

Losses Become Gains Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lossesbecomegains

Life With Grief podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithgriefpodcast/

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Please consider supporting the podcast here: https://buymeacoffee.com/heroesingrief

NEW!!! Purchase the book Tom is in 'Stories of Friends and Family Lost': https://amzn.to/3SXtG1v

Heroes in Grief: www.heroesingrief.com

Contact Tom: [email protected]

Tom's GriefTalks page (Book Tom as your Guest Speaker): https://www.facebook.com/tombendergrieftalks

Our partner 'Get Griefy Magazine': www.getgriefymagazine.com

You also can help support Heroes in Grief by using our affiliate links to wherever you do your online shopping or ordering. Message Tom at [email protected] to inquire or get a link. No extra charges or any cost to you!

Visit the Heroes in Grief shop for products discussed on the podcast & Tom's suggestions: https://linktr.ee/heroesingrief/shop

Thank you!!!