Life Shift | True Stories of Healing, Grief & Loss

By Matt GilhoolySociety & Culture Health & Fitness Mental Health Education Self-Improvement Personal Journals

Life Shift | True Stories of Healing, Grief & Loss episodes

May 13, 2025Illness: When Your Body Goes Silent
What if you woke up one day unable to speak, move, or even swallow?
Vanessa Abraham, a thriving speech pathologist and mother, was plunged into a life-threatening health crisis that left her trapped in her own body. With no clear diagnosis and a long road ahead, she found herself on the other side of the hospital bed, experiencing everything she once treated.
In this episode, Vanessa shares how she reclaimed her voice, fought for her life, and redefined her identity in the aftermath. You’ll hear:
What it's like to live with post-intensive care syndrome (PICS)
How motherhood fueled her survival
Why community and mental health advocacy are at the heart of her healing
About Vanessa Abraham
Vanessa Abraham, M.S. CCC-SLP, is a certified speech pathologist, author, and advocate for ICU survivors. With over 15 years of experience, she has worked extensively with children using communication devices, a skill she unexpectedly relied on during her own medical journey. Vanessa is now a passionate advocate for trauma-informed care and post-intensive care syndrome awareness, using her personal story to educate and inspire others. Her memoir, Speechless, captures her journey from provider to patient and back, offering hope and insight to those navigating similar challenges.
Connect with Vanessa:
Book: Speechless on Amazon
Instagram: @speechless_slp
Facebook: Speechless SLP
Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/
The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/
Connect with me:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast
Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com
Topics Discussed
The rare Guillain-Barre variant that left Vanessa paralyzed overnight
Transitioning from a speech pathologist to an ICU patient
The fear and confusion of not having a diagnosis for four months
Using communication boards and eye gaze to connect with her care team
Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) and its emotional toll
How her daughter became her reason to live
Reclaiming her identity after losing her independence
Returning to work with a trauma-informed perspective
The mental health gap in ICU aftercare
Her book Speechless and its mission to educate clinicians and families

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58 min
May 11, 2025 A Mother's Day Tribute to the People Who Carried Me
In this special solo episode of The Life Shift Podcast, I step away from interviews to reflect on the three people who shaped me most—my mother, my grandmother, and my father. Mother’s Day has always felt complicated, layered with grief, gratitude, and unexpected resilience.
I share how losing my mom at eight changed everything, how my grandmother stepped in and became my safe place, and how my father quietly carried the weight of it all while helping me find my way forward.
This episode is a tribute to them—and to you, the listener, who may also feel the complex emotions that days like this bring.
If this episode resonates, please consider following the show and leaving a review to help others find these stories.
Resources & Links:
🔗 Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com
💌 Stay connected: Follow on Apple Podcasts

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

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13 min
May 11, 2025 Marty Klein Revisited: What Losing His Mother Taught Him Next
Marty Klein returns for a bonus episode where we dive into his journey since his original appearance on The Life Shift Podcast. The main takeaway from our chat is how sharing his story about losing his mom at a young age has impacted him and helped him reflect on the deeper shifts it created in his life.
We discuss the nuances of dealing with grief, the importance of talking about it openly, and how sharing experiences can lead to unexpected connections with others. Marty shares how he initially felt unsure about sharing his story but found that it sparked important conversations with friends and family. We also touch on how revisiting these stories can help us understand not just the shifts themselves, but the ongoing effects they have on our lives.

The Life Shift Rewind
I’m excited to share bonus episodes from Patreon, where I revisited past guests to discuss what has changed and the value of sharing their stories. Since I currently only have the lower tiers available, I wanted to make these conversations accessible to the public feed. If you'd like to support the show directly, please consider joining the $3 or $5 tier on Patreon – www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast.

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30 min
May 06, 2025Uncertainty: Learning to Live With Maybe
Have you ever felt trapped by the need for certainty in your life? Allison Carmen, a spiritual teacher, author, and podcaster, shares her journey from being addicted to certainty to embracing the power of "maybe."
Allison takes us through her early years, where anxiety and worry dominated her life. She recounts the pivotal moment when a simple Daoist story about a farmer and his horse opened her eyes to a new way of thinking that would change her life forever.
From Certainty Addiction to Embracing the Unknown
How Allison's need for certainty affected her daily life and relationships
The power of the word "maybe" in shifting perspective and reducing stress
Learning to find hope and possibility in life's uncertainties
Navigating Life's Unexpected Turns
Allison's experience of using her own teachings to cope with a sudden divorce
The importance of accepting what is while maintaining hope for the future
How embracing uncertainty can lead to personal growth and new opportunities
Cultivating a "Maybe" Mindset
Practical ways to incorporate "maybe" thinking into your daily life
The difference between using "maybe" as a tool and adopting it as a life perspective
How this mindset can help in making decisions and facing challenges
As you listen to this episode, consider:
In what areas of your life might you be clinging to certainty?
How could adopting a "maybe" mindset change your approach to stress and worry?
What possibilities might open up if you embraced uncertainty more fully?
This conversation reminds us that life's uncertainties can be a source of hope and potential rather than fear. Allison's journey offers practical insights for anyone looking to reduce anxiety and find more peace in the face of life's unknowns.
About Allison Carmen
Allison Carmen is an author, TEDx speaker, podcaster, business consultant, and CFO/General Counsel at the Motherhood Center of New York. She holds a B.A. in accounting, a J.D. in law, and a Master of Law in taxation. Allison’s books include The Gift of Maybe: Offering Hope and Possibility in Uncertain Times and A Year Without Men: A Twelve Point Guide to Inspire and Empower Women. She also hosts the podcast 10 Minutes to Less Suffering, where she shares tools to help alleviate daily stress. Allison is a regular contributor to Psychology Today, The Daily Beast, and AARP and is a sought-after speaker and media guest.
Connect with Allison Carmen
Website: allisoncarmen.com
Podcast: 10 Minutes to Less Suffering on Allison's website
Books: Available on Allison's website
Social Media: Find Allison on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn via her website.

Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/
The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/
Connect with me:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast
Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1 hr 5 min
May 04, 2025 Becca Berkey Revisited: Vulnerability, Shame, and What's Changed
Becca Berkey is back to chat about her journey since her appearance on The Life Shift. We dive right into the heart of the conversation, exploring how her experiences have shaped her perspective on vulnerability and connection. Becca reflects on a pivotal moment from her childhood that introduced her to the concept of shame, and we discuss how those early experiences can influence our adult lives. There’s a lot to unpack about how sharing our stories can foster deeper connections and understanding among us. Plus, she shares some exciting life updates, including her new dual role at the university and the lessons she's learning along the way. It was a real treat to catch up with Becca and see how her journey continues to unfold.

The Life Shift Rewind
I’m excited to share bonus episodes from Patreon, where I revisited past guests to discuss what has changed and the value of sharing their stories. Since I currently only have the lower tiers available, I wanted to make these conversations accessible to the public feed. If you'd like to support the show directly, please consider joining the $3 or $5 tier on Patreon – www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast.

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
32 min
April 29, 2025Sobriety: What Life Feels Like Without Alcohol
Have you ever wondered what life could be like without alcohol? Emily Holland, a podcast consultant and community manager, shares her journey of overcoming addictions and rediscovering herself through a life of sobriety and self-worth.
Emily takes us through her early years, where alcohol became a constant companion from the tender age of 13. She recounts the pivotal moment on a ski slope that sparked a realization that would change the course of her life forever.
From Numbing to Feeling: Embracing a Life Without Alcohol
How Emily's relationship with alcohol evolved from teenage experimentation to adult coping mechanism
The power of taking breaks from drinking to gain clarity and perspective
Learning to navigate social situations and emotions without the crutch of alcohol
Rediscovering Joy and Authenticity
Emily's journey of self-discovery and building confidence in sobriety
The importance of grieving your relationship with alcohol and acknowledging its role in your life
How embracing vulnerability led to deeper connections and personal growth
Ongoing Growth and Self-Reflection
Emily's continued journey of self-improvement, including addressing anxiety
The value of seeking professional help and being open to different therapeutic approaches
How sharing your story can inspire and support others on similar paths
As you listen to this episode, consider:
In what ways might you be using external substances or behaviors to numb difficult emotions?
How can you create more space for authenticity and vulnerability in your life?
What steps can you take to build self-belief and confidence in your abilities?

This conversation reminds us that personal growth is an ongoing journey, and it's never too late to make positive changes in our lives. Emily's story is a testament to the power of self-reflection, courage, and the impact of embracing our authentic selves.
About Emily Holland
Emily Holland (she/her/hers) is the co-founder of Wild Poppy Creative Consulting, where she helps small business owners and creatives increase their impact. When she’s not working, Emily spends her time trail running, hiking, rock climbing, skiing, or enjoying the outdoors with her rescue dog, Kayda. Based in Boulder, Colorado, and originally from upstate New York, Emily is passionate about connection, creativity, and embracing life’s adventures.
Connect with Emily Holland:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-holland
- Email: [email protected]
Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/
The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/
Connect with me:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast
Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1 hr 3 min
April 27, 2025 Rachel Fiorello Revisited: Grief, Love, and Raising Her Daughters After Loss
Rachel Fiorello returns to The Life Shift Podcast to share her journey since her first appearance, where she opened up about the profound loss of her husband, Matt. This conversation digs into how sharing her story has helped her navigate grief, allowing her to honor Matt while creating new memories with their daughters. Rachel reflects on the cathartic nature of storytelling and the importance of maintaining connections to loved ones, even after they are gone.
We explore the challenges she faces as a single parent and how she’s making an effort to embrace experiences that Matt would have enjoyed with the family, like trips to Disney. It’s a heartfelt reminder of the ongoing journey of grief and the significance of cherishing the moments we have.

The Life Shift Rewind
I’m excited to share bonus episodes from Patreon, where I revisited past guests to discuss what has changed and the value of sharing their stories. Since I currently only have the lower tiers available, I wanted to make these conversations accessible to the public feed. If you'd like to support the show directly, please consider joining the $3 or $5 tier on Patreon – www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast.

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
30 min
April 25, 2025The Gift of Perspective: What We Wish We Knew Before Our Life Changes
This episode of the Life Shift podcast features a powerful exploration of the moments right before significant life changes and the words of encouragement that could have made a difference. My guests reflect on their past selves, offering heartfelt advice and insights drawn from their personal experiences.
Each speaker shares unique perspectives, from affirming their worthiness to emphasizing the importance of trusting the process, even when everything feels out of control. You'll hear Kyle V. Robinson, Taylor Coffman, Brigette Panetta, Alan Heymann, and Alan Rhode share the complexities of their life shifts, reminding us that while the journey can be daunting, hope and resilience are always within reach.
Takeaways:
Many guests emphasize the importance of self-love and support, particularly during challenging moments in life.
Reflecting on past experiences can be therapeutic, as it allows individuals to offer compassion to their younger selves.
Trusting the process and letting go of control can lead to personal growth and healing.
Some guests highlight the value of embracing life and trying new things as a way to enrich experiences.
The emotional journey of each guest shows that transformation often comes from acknowledging and nurturing one's inner child.
Guest Appearances in order:
Kyle V. Robinson - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e151
Taylor Coffman - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e155
Brigette Panetta - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e153
Alan Heymann - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e152
Alan Rhode - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e154

Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/
The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/
Connect with me:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast
Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
6 min
April 22, 2025Guilt: When Staying No Longer Fit
Content warning: This episode includes discussion of emotional abuse, unhealthy relationship dynamics, and the impact of long-term guilt and control in marriage.
Have you ever felt trapped in a relationship that was slowly draining your spirit? In this episode of the Life Shift podcast, I sit down with Jenn Todling, a former corporate executive turned author and coach, who shares her courageous journey of escaping a toxic marriage and rediscovering herself.
Jenn takes us through her early years as a young bride, navigating the complexities of caring for a chronically ill spouse while trying to maintain a demanding career. She recounts the pivotal moment when a single question in a book sparked a realization that would change the course of her life forever.
From Guilt to Growth: Breaking Free from a Toxic Relationship
How Jenn's people-pleasing nature kept her trapped in an unhealthy situation
The power of therapy in untangling the web of guilt and shame
Learning to set boundaries and prioritize self-care in the face of adversity
Rediscovering Joy and Purpose
Jenn's journey of self-discovery through travel, dance, and new experiences
The importance of trusting your intuition and honoring your needs
How embracing vulnerability led to a fulfilling new chapter in life and love
Turning Pain into Purpose: Sharing Your Story
Jenn's decision to write a memoir and the healing power of storytelling
The unexpected insights gained through the writing and editing process
How sharing our authentic experiences can inspire and empower others
As you listen to this episode, consider:
What limiting beliefs or guilt might be holding you back from living your best life?
How can you start honoring your own needs and intuition in your relationships?
In what ways might sharing your own story help others feel less alone?

This conversation will remind you that it's never too late to reclaim your life and find happiness on your own terms. Jenn's journey is a testament to the power of self-reflection, courage, and the impact of embracing our authentic selves.
To connect with Jenn Todling and learn more about her work, visit her website at www.jenntodling.com. You can also follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @jenntodling, and subscribe to her newsletter "Soul Spark with Jenn Todling" for weekly insights and updates - https://jenntodling.substack.com/.
Order Jenn's Book – Dancing On My Own Two Feet – https://www.amazon.com/Dancing-My-Own-Two-Feet/dp/1647428785
Resources: To listen in on more conversations about pivotal moments that changed lives forever, subscribe to "The Life Shift" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars and leave a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Access ad-free episodes released two days early: https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Subscribe to The Life Shift Newsletter: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter/
The Life Shift was just named one of the top 60 life-changing podcasts by FeedSpot: https://podcast.feedspot.com/life_changing_podcasts/
Connect with me:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thelifeshiftpodcast
Website: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
59 min
April 20, 2025Fresh Starts: Olivia's Reflections on Growth and Change
This bonus episode dives back into a conversation with Olivia Howell, who reflects on her journey since sharing their pivotal moment on The Life Shift. We kick things off by discussing how a toxic relationship culminated in a life-altering decision, showcasing the raw reality that sometimes, it’s the smallest moments that lead to the biggest changes. Olivia emphasizes the importance of sharing these experiences, not just for personal healing, but to resonate with others who might be navigating similar struggles. We also touch on the growth in her life, including the successful release of a book and expanding their community, highlighting how embracing change can lead to unexpected opportunities.

The Life Shift Rewind
I’m excited to share bonus episodes from Patreon, where I revisited past guests to discuss what has changed and the value of sharing their stories. Since I currently only have the lower tiers available, I wanted to make these conversations accessible to the public feed. If you'd like to support the show directly, please consider joining the $3 or $5 tier on Patreon – www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast.

Links referenced in this episode:
patreon.com/thelifeshiftpod
freshstartsregistry.com
www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
31 min

About Life Shift | True Stories of Healing, Grief & Loss

From the publisher's feed

A true stories podcast about healing from trauma, grief, and life after loss. Host Matt Gilhooly sits down with real people for honest conversations about the pivotal moment everything changed: a sudden loss, a diagnosis, a divorce, an accident, a betrayal.