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

April 15, 2025Anxiety: When I Was No Longer on Watch
Have you ever felt trapped by the weight of someone else's addiction? In this episode of the Life Shift podcast, I sit down with Carol Look, a psychotherapist and EFT coach, who shares her journey of finding happiness and purpose despite growing up in a family plagued by alcoholism.
Carol takes us through her early years, where she excelled academically and athletically while constantly living on edge, waiting for the next relapse of her parents' addiction. She recounts the pivotal moment during a family rehab visit when a recovering addict's words shattered her perception of what was possible.
Breaking Free from the Cycle of Anxiety
How Carol's hypervigilance affected her daily life and relationships
The power of energy healing techniques in calming her nervous system
Overcoming the guilt and shame associated with a loved one's addiction
Embracing a New Path of Healing
Carol's transition from corporate life to becoming a psychotherapist
The importance of community in healing trauma and addiction
How writing "The Yes Code" helped Carol process her own story
Finding Joy Amidst Ongoing Challenges
Rebuilding a relationship with her mother after long-term sobriety
Learning to accept and validate uncomfortable emotions
The ongoing process of grief and how it shapes us
As you listen to this episode, consider:
In what ways might you be holding onto anxiety or hypervigilance in your own life?
How can you create space for both healing and joy, even when facing ongoing challenges?
What steps can you take to build a supportive community around you?

Join us for this inspiring conversation that reminds us it's possible to find happiness and purpose, even when those we love continue to struggle. Carol's journey offers hope and practical insights for anyone navigating the complex emotions surrounding addiction and family trauma.
To learn more about Carol Look and her work, visit her website at carollook.com. There, you can find information about her coaching programs, workshops, and book "The Yes Code: Transforming Sabotage into Success."
Learn more about how to create a life you love, one “yes” at a time.
Get access to Carol's free video: The #1 Mistake People Make That Keeps Them STUCK! Along with powerful weekly abundance tips to make sure that you keep moving forward at https://www.carollook.com/
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:

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1 hr 7 min
April 13, 2025Why Sharing Matters: Catching Up with Past Guests
We’re diving into some bonus episodes today, featuring chats with past guests from the Life Shift podcast. This time around, we're catching up with Adrienne, who shared her powerful story about overcoming PTSD using unconventional methods.

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.

We dig into how sharing her journey helped her conquer the stigma around mental health and find her voice in a public space. It’s all about the importance of storytelling and how it can spark connection and healing, not just for the storyteller but for listeners too. Plus, we explore how personal research and intuition can lead to effective healing methods, showing that the path to recovery is as unique as each person’s journey.
Takeaways:
Creating a supportive community around mental health can help individuals feel less alone in their struggles.
Sharing personal stories about mental illness can reduce stigma and promote healing for both the speaker and listeners.
Small daily commitments to ourselves can dramatically improve our self-trust and overall mental well-being.
Listening to past episodes can provide insights and encourage conversations about vulnerable topics like PTSD.
Engaging in candid discussions about personal experiences fosters connection and support among listeners in similar situations.

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
26 min
April 08, 2025Purpose: When the Cell Became a Beginning
Have you ever wondered how someone can overcome addiction and time in prison and still find fulfillment in life? In this episode of the Life Shift podcast, I sit down with Sean Martin, a once-incarcerated individual turned successful entrepreneur and mentor who shares his remarkable journey of transformation and self-discovery.
Sean takes us through his early years growing up in New York City's Parkside Projects, where he witnessed the devastating effects of the crack cocaine epidemic. Despite the challenges, Sean's mother instilled in him the belief that he could achieve anything he set his mind to. However, this drive for success eventually led him down a dangerous path.
From Prison Cell to Personal Growth
How Sean used his time in prison to map out his future goals
The power of self-reflection and taking responsibility for one's actions
Overcoming addiction and finding sobriety later in life
Embracing Fatherhood and Purpose
Sean's initial reluctance to start a family and how it changed his life
The importance of breaking generational cycles and being present for your children
Finding fulfillment through mentorship and giving back to the community
Redefining Success and Personal Growth
How Sean's definition of success evolved beyond financial achievements
The role of continuous self-improvement and surrounding yourself with positive influences
Embracing discomfort as a catalyst for personal growth
As you listen to this episode, consider:
What limiting beliefs might be holding you back from reaching your full potential?
How can you use your past experiences, both positive and negative, to shape a better future?
How can you contribute to your community and find fulfillment through helping others?
Join us for this inspiring conversation that reminds us it's never too late to change your life's direction and find purpose in helping others. Sean's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-reflection, and the courage to embrace new possibilities.
Sean Martin is an entrepreneur, nonprofit advocate, podcast host, and motivational speaker dedicated to inspiring others through his story of resilience and transformation. Growing up in the Bronx during the crack epidemic, Sean faced significant challenges, including addiction and incarceration. However, he turned his life around through self-reflection and a commitment to personal growth. Today, Sean leads multiple successful businesses, supports underserved communities through his nonprofit work, and hosts the R.E.A.L Mentors Podcast, highlighting impactful stories of entrepreneurship and service. Sean’s first book, Beyond the Bronx, will be released in 2025. As a devoted husband and father, Sean inspires and empowers others to overcome adversity and achieve their full potential.
Connect with Sean Martin
Instagram: @TheSeanMartin
Podcast: R.E.A.L Mentors Podcast, available on all major platforms
Upcoming Book: Beyond the Bronx (2025)

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 9 min
April 07, 2025 Randy Redd Revisited: Leaving New York City for a Fulfilling Life in Memphis
Randy Redd joins me for a bonus episode. We chat about how leaving the bustling life of New York City in search of a more fulfilling existence in Memphis was a pivotal moment for him.

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.

Randy reflects on the challenges of seeking happiness in a world that often prioritizes success over well-being, and he emphasizes how important it is to trust your gut and embrace change when the itch for something new arises. It’s a heartfelt conversation about finding purpose and creating a life that truly resonates with who we are.
Listen to Randy's full episode on The Life Shift podcast: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/broadway-to-memphis-the-journey-to-finding-what-matters-randy-redd/
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
36 min
April 06, 2025 Christin Lindley Revisited: Grief, Growth, and Healing Since Episode One

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.

Christin Lindley joins me on The Life Shift Rewind for a bonus episode that digs into her journey of resilience and transformation over the past couple of years. We chat about how sharing her story on the podcast was a cathartic experience that helped her process significant loss and trauma. Christin reflects on the importance of therapy and the concept of "radical acceptance," emphasizing that feeling whatever you're feeling is totally valid. It’s a reminder that even through tough times, we can find growth and healing. If you’re on your own journey of self-discovery or grappling with change, this episode is a treasure trove of insight and inspiration.
Listen to Christin's full episode on The Life Shift podcast: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/compounding-grief-radical-acceptance-christin-lindley/
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
31 min
April 04, 2025Trust the Journey: Inspirational Insights from Life Shift Podcast
In this recap episode, we explore the powerful responses from guests reflecting on their pivotal life shift moments and what they would tell their past selves. Throughout the discussions, themes of patience, self-belief, and shedding shame resonate deeply, highlighting the emotional journeys we all face. My guests, including Jasmin Faulk-Dickerson and Lewis Crompton, share their insights on being true to oneself and maintaining faith during challenging times. Their heartfelt messages serve as a reminder that, despite the struggles, we will ultimately be okay, and we’re encouraged to trust the journey ahead. Join me as we reflect on these inspirational words and embrace the hope they bring.
Takeaways:
Believe in yourself and be patient; these are essential qualities for overcoming life's challenges.
Shed the shame that holds us back, as it often disguises itself as guilt.
Keep faith over fear, as trusting the process can lead to positive outcomes.
In moments of struggle, remind yourself that you will eventually be okay and find peace.
Embrace your unique journey, as your dreams may evolve into something unexpected yet fulfilling.
Remember that every difficult moment is temporary; the sun will rise again tomorrow.
Guest Appearances in order:
Jasmin Faulk-Dickerson - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e146
Lewis Crompton - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e150
Sam Tejada - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e147
Tarris Marie - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e149
Ashley Menzies Babatunde - www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/s3e148

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 01, 2025Spiritual Awakening Through Illness: Ofer Niv's Journey
In this episode, Ofer Niv shares how a life-altering health crisis led to his spiritual awakening and transformation.
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Have you ever felt like your life was running on autopilot, chasing success without truly feeling fulfilled? In this episode of the Life Shift podcast, I sit down with Ofer Niv, a former corporate manager turned energy healer who shares his remarkable journey of transformation after facing a life-altering health crisis.
Ofer takes us through his early years as a driven professional, working long hours and prioritizing career success above all else. He recounts the pivotal moment when, at the height of his corporate career, he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis - a wake-up call that would change the course of his life forever.
From Corporate Success to Spiritual Awakening
How Ofer's MS diagnosis forced him to reevaluate his priorities and approach to life
The power of meditation and self-reflection in shifting perspective
Discovering a new path through energy healing and shamanic practices
Embracing Intuition and Inner Wisdom
Overcoming societal conditioning that dismisses intuitive abilities
Learning to listen to the heart and body, rather than just the mind
The transformative impact of aligning with one's authentic self
Healing Beyond the Physical
Ofer's journey to becoming symptom-free and medication-free
The connection between emotional well-being and physical health
How embracing spirituality changed Ofer's relationship with fear and death
As you listen to this episode, consider:
In what ways might you be operating on autopilot in your own life?
How can you create more space for intuition and inner wisdom in your daily routine?
What beliefs or societal expectations might be holding you back from living authentically?

Join us for this inspiring conversation that challenges our perceptions of success, health, and personal growth. Ofer's journey reminds us that we can create lives filled with purpose, joy, and profound healing by tuning into our inner guidance and embracing our authentic selves.
About Ofer Niv
Ofer Niv is a transformational healer, mentor, and guide specializing in shamanic energy work that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual layers of being. With over a decade of experience, Ofer blends ancient wisdom, the mysticism of the Kabbalah, and shamanic practices, helping clients resolve deep-seated issues and transform their lives at the core.
Born and raised on a kibbutz in Israel, Ofer served as an Army Commander and studied philosophy and math before moving to the US. He studied computer science at UCLA and then worked for over 20 years as a Senior Manager in IT at Wells Fargo.
Ofer began to explore alternative healing modalities after having been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2011. As he saw his symptoms dissipating, he began to study energy healing with several masters, including Bonnie Serratore and Cyndi Dale. He eventually overcame his MS and now uses his personal experience and extensive training to guide others through profound healing.
Through his practice, Alchemical Flame, Ofer helps clients navigate five mystical realms—heart, Shadow, Magical, Divine, and Unseen (Da’ath)—to unlock their innate healing potential, clear energetic blocks, and reconnect to their divine essence. His work goes beyond addressing symptoms and dives deep into the root causes to help clients reach a new level of wellness, empowerment, and spiritual growth.
Ofer’s mission is to empower individuals to transcend their limitations, unlock their highest potential, and cultivate a deeper connection with their inner selves and the universe. His clients report significant breakthroughs, newfound peace, and a renewed ability to handle life’s challenges.
To learn more about Ofer Niv and his work, visit his website at www.alchemicalflame.com. You can also join his free bi-weekly guided meditation and activation sessions to experience his unique approach to energy healing.
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 2 min
March 31, 2025 The Evolution of Stories: Shanna Benson Reflects on Life's Pivotal Moments

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.

Shanna Benson is back on The Life Shift for a special bonus episode that explores the transformative power of sharing our stories.
We chat about how Shanna took a leap of faith after a tough breakup, using pivotal moments to reclaim her identity and chase her dreams in baking. It's a raw and honest conversation where we unpack the importance of letting go of fear and embracing our truth, even when it feels daunting. Shanna shares her journey from feeling trapped to finding freedom through self-expression and the lessons learned along the way. If you’re looking for inspiration to break free from your own constraints, this episode is definitely a must-listen.
Listen to Shanna's full episode on The Life Shift: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/shanna-benson/

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
39 min
March 31, 2025 Heidi Kirby Revisited: Sobriety, Growth, and What's Changed

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.

Heidi Kirby is back on The Life Shift, diving deep into her journey of sobriety and the major life changes she's faced since we last chatted.
We get into how her decision to quit drinking was a pivotal moment that set off a chain reaction in her life, leading to her divorce and new beginnings. Heidi shares the raw and real emotions that came with these shifts, emphasizing the importance of being brave enough to let go of things that no longer serve us. It's a powerful reminder that reclaiming our identity often means facing uncomfortable truths, but it can also lead to incredible growth and healing. If you’re grappling with your own life changes or seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen.
Listen to Heidi's full episode on The Life Shift podcast: https://www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/are-you-going-to-stop-drinking-forever-heidi-kirby/

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
34 min
March 31, 2025Trailer: The Life Shift Podcast
This is the Life Shift Podcast—candid conversations with people about the pivotal moments that changed their lives forever.
We all have our stories, but through these conversations, we discover communities. We learn that there are commonalities through the ups and downs that we all face. But most importantly, we learn that we are not alone. The Life Shift podcast highlights life-altering moments and humanizes the struggles and triumphs through them all.

Please follow/subscribe on your favorite podcast app, and listen to new episodes every Tuesday morning.

If you enjoy The Life Shift Podcast, please take a moment to rate the show 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This trailer features moments from episodes, including:
Pamela Topjian
Matt LeBris
Cristina Marcello
Matt Drinkhahn
Wiley Davis
Rebecca Lerch
Claudia Noriega-Bernstein
Brian Acord

Music: Spark of Inspiration by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

Ad-free episodes released early. https://patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast

Connect with me:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thelifeshiftpodcast
YouTube: https://bit.ly/thelifeshift_youtube
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thelifeshiftpod
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
4 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.