In this heartfelt conversation that you won't want to miss, Marie Goudreau and I explore the complexities of grief, and share personal stories and insights on how to navigate loss. Marie, a certified death and grief doula, shares her journey with us through grief after losing her partner to cancer and how it led her to support others in their grief.

KeyTakeaways

• Grief is a personal journey, and each individual is the expert of their own grief.
• The experience of loss can profoundly change one's identity and worldview.
• Community support is crucial for those navigating grief; it helps alleviate feelings of isolation.
• Healing from grief is an ongoing process, not a destination.
• Love and legacy continue beyond death, shaping how we live our lives.
• Grief is not an emergency; there is no timeline for healing.
• It's important to allow oneself to feel the full spectrum of grief.
• The relationship with the deceased can evolve but does not have to end.
• Presence and understanding are the most valuable gifts we can offer to those in grief.
• Being of service to others can be a powerful part of one's healing journey.

You can find Marie on Insta @empowered_through_grief or by visiting her website https://www.empoweredthroughgrief.com/

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to my website https://shaunadukes.com/ for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

Lisa Espinoza is an author and speaker who knows the deep pain of losing someone you love. With raw honesty, humor and practical wisdom, Lisa offers hope for anyone walking through their own season of grief and loss.

In this heartfelt conversation, Lisa and I explore the profound journey of grief following the loss of a child. We discussed the challenges of navigating daily life after such a loss, the importance of cultivating resilience, and the healing power of sharing one's story.

Lisa shared with us her personal experiences, including the impact of writing on her healing process and the significance of support from friends and family. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion in the face of grief, as well as the signs and connections that can be felt from loved ones who have passed.

Takeaways

• Healing from grief is a continuous choice and practice.
• Resilience can be cultivated through sharing personal stories.
• Writing can serve as a powerful tool for processing grief.
• Support from friends and family is crucial during difficult times.
• Grief is a unique journey that varies for each individual.
• It's important to honor the memory of loved ones in meaningful ways.
• Finding joy amidst grief is possible and necessary.
• Being open to signs from loved ones can provide comfort.
• Grief should not be a competition; everyone's experience is valid.

You can find out more about Lisa and her offerings by clicking the below link.

https://www.lisaespinoza.com/first-brush-your-teeth

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

Erin Whalen is the Founder of Compassionate Coaching, which guides teams in the helping profession, especially end-of-life and bereavement professionals, to get through their days with more ease.

In this episode Erin Whalen shares with us her personal journey through anticipatory grief, discussing her experiences and insights gained from living with the expectation of loss. She reflects on the impact of her sister's condition and how it shaped her understanding of grief and healing.

You can book a free 30 min. call with Erin through this link. https://calendly.com/compassionatecoaching/30-minute-call

• Anticipatory grief is a profound experience that shapes one's life.
• Erin Whalen's journey with her sister's condition taught her about the inevitability of loss.
• Understanding and naming anticipatory grief can be a powerful step in healing.
• Sharing personal stories helps connect and heal individuals experiencing grief.
• Erin emphasizes the importance of community in navigating grief.
• Her experiences highlight the need for awareness and support for those living with anticipatory grief.
• Erin's story illustrates the complexity of emotions involved in anticipatory grief.
• The conversation sheds light on the personal growth that can come from understanding grief.
• Erin's insights offer valuable lessons for those supporting others in grief.
• The discussion underscores the healing power of storytelling in processing grief.

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

In this episode of Not Your Average Grief, I spoke with the incredible powerhouse of a woman, Rhonda Britten. She an Emmy Award Winner, has been on 600 Episodes of Reality TV, is a Bestselling 4X Author "Fearless Living", is named "America's Favorite Life Coach," is a Standing Ovation Keynote Speaker, and has been a fear expert on National TV and Radio for over 30 years.

She shared with us her harrowing experience of witnessing her father's murder of her mother at a young age and the subsequent guilt and trauma that shaped her life. Through her story, she emphasizes the importance of facing fear, embracing healing, and the power of forgiveness.

She introduces her concept of 'Fearless Living,' a framework designed to help individuals identify and overcome their core fears, ultimately leading to personal growth and emotional freedom. The conversation highlights the ongoing nature of grief and the necessity of sharing our stories to foster connection and healing.

Takeaways

• The worst days of our lives can lead to transformation.
• Witnessing trauma can create deep-seated guilt and fear.
• Healing is a lifelong journey, not a destination.
• Forgiveness is a process that requires time and understanding.
• Fear often manifests in various self-destructive behaviors.
• Sharing our stories can create safe spaces for others.
• Emotional intelligence is crucial for personal growth.
• Fearless Living is about embracing life despite fear.
• Identifying core fears can lead to significant breakthroughs.
• Grief is a natural part of life that requires acknowledgment and processing.

To find out more about Rhonda Britten and her offerings go to her website.

Rhonda Britten's Website

and here is the link that she gave us on the call as a freebie. Stretch, risk, or die.

https://FearlessLiving.org/risk

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

In this heartfelt conversation, I spoke with the lovely Melanie Sessa. We explored the profound journey of grief following the loss of a child.

We discussed the importance of community support, the power of sharing personal stories, and the ongoing nature of grief. Melanie shared her experience of navigating her grief while also supporting others through her Instagram platform, emphasizing that grief is not just sadness but a complex intertwining of love and longing.

The discussion highlights the significance of remembering loved ones and the need for open conversations about grief in society.

Takeaways

• Grief is a deeply personal journey that varies for everyone.
• Sharing stories can help connect and heal those who are grieving.
• Community support is vital in navigating the grief process.
• It's important to remember and honor loved ones who have passed.
• Grief is not just sadness; it is an ongoing relationship with love.
• Faith can provide comfort and perspective during grief.
• Grievers often need specific support rather than open-ended offers of help.
• Milestones and anniversaries can be particularly challenging for grievers.
• The absence of a loved one is felt in every aspect of life.
• Love never dies, and the connection remains even after loss.

You can find and contact Melanie on instagram @grace_and_grief_healing

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

In this episode of Not Your Average Grief podcast, I speak with Stacey Johnson, a women empowerment coach and former clinical therapist, about her personal journey through grief after losing her husband and stepfather within weeks of each other. We discussed the challenges of navigating loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, the transition from therapy to coaching, and the importance of routines and community in the healing process.

Stacey shares her insights on emotional regulation, the power of gratitude, and the significance of allowing oneself to feel emotions. The conversation emphasizes the need for connection and support in overcoming grief and finding resilience.

Takeaways

• Stacey lost two significant men in her life within weeks.
• Grief processing can be delayed by busy schedules.
• Grief is a reflection of love for those lost.
• Routine and structure can aid in grief recovery.
• Community support is crucial for healing.
• Emotional regulation techniques help manage grief.
• Gratitude practices can shift focus during tough times.
• Sitting with emotions empowers individuals in grief.
• Milestones can trigger feelings of loss.
• Helping others can be a source of inspiration.

To connect with Stacey more and learn about her offerings you can head over to her website.

https://staceyjohnsoncoaching.com/

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

In this episode of Not Your Average Grief, I chat with my beautiful friend and guest Portia Barton. Portia is a mother of seven and a passionate advocate for food allergies. She shares with us her profound journey of grief following the loss of her daughter Charlotte, who suffered from severe food allergies. This conversation delves into the challenges of navigating grief, the importance of self-care, and the power of community support. Portia emphasizes the significance of sharing stories and advocating for food allergy awareness as a way to honor her daughter's memory. The episode offers insights into coping with loss, the duality of happiness and sadness, and the importance of finding inspiration in everyday life.

Takeaways

• Portia is a mother of seven and a food allergy advocate.
• Charlotte, Portia's daughter, had severe food allergies and tragically passed away.
• Grief is a journey that comes in waves and can be overwhelming.
• Self-care is essential in navigating grief, including journaling and honoring loved ones.
• Community support is vital for those experiencing grief.
• There is no timeline for grief; it is a personal journey.
• Portia aims to raise awareness about food allergies to honor Charlotte's memory.
• The duality of happiness and sadness is a part of the grieving process.
• Finding inspiration in everyday life can help in the healing journey.
• Sharing stories can foster connection and understanding among those grieving.

You can find, follow, and reach out to Portia on Instragram @iamportiabarton and also @livelikechar

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

In this episode of Not Your Average Grief Podcast, I speak with Dr. Lynn Banis, who specializes in helping widows transform their grief into connection and joy. Dr. Lynn shares her personal journey through profound loss, including the deaths of her husband, brother, and mother. She discusses the importance of acknowledging grief, creating meaningful remembrances, and the role of community in healing. Our conversation also touches on societal attitudes towards grief, overcoming limiting beliefs, and the significance of coaching in navigating the grieving process. Dr. Lynn emphasizes the need for open discussions about grief and offers practical tools for transformation.

Takeaways

• Dr. Lynn helps widows transform loneliness into connection.
• Grief can be compounded by multiple losses.
• It's essential to acknowledge and process grief.
• Creating new traditions can help in healing.
• Community support is crucial during grief.
• Societal norms often make discussing grief uncomfortable.
• Limiting beliefs can hinder the healing process.
• Practical support for grieving individuals is vital.
• Coaching can provide a structured path through grief.
• Values may shift after a significant loss.

To find out more about Dr. Lynn and the work she does you can visit her website by clicking the link below.

Lynn Banis's Website

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

In this episode I speak with Anne Hintz, who shares her profound journey of healing from grief and trauma through the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT).

Anne recounts her experience of finding her mother deceased at a young age and how it impacted her life. She discusses the importance of emotional release and self-awareness, explaining how EFT helped her process her grief and transform her life.

The conversation delves into practical steps for tapping, the significance of recognizing emotions, and the deeper understanding of life that comes from healing. Anne also shares insights from her book, 'The Pathway to Insight,' and her mission to help others navigate their grief and emotional challenges.

Takeaways

• Anne Hintz developed the ability to sense and release physical tension in her body.
• Her mother's death was a significant trauma that influenced her life.
• EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) helped Anne process her grief.
• Emotions are energy that can be released from the body.
• Self-awareness is crucial in recognizing and addressing emotions.
• Tapping can be a practical tool for emotional release.
• Meditation and EFT serve different purposes in healing.
• Anne's journey led her to teach others about emotional healing.
• The body holds memories and emotions physically.
• Life can be deeper and richer once we process our grief.

You can find Anne, learn more from her and follow her journeyby clicking this link. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9vDqooYE6w

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone. You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.

In this episode I speak with Roman Fischer, an actor, model, and high-performance coach.

Roman shares his personal journey from struggling with mental health issues and a lack of fitness to transforming his life through nutrition and exercise. He emphasizes the importance of clean eating, mental health, and motivation strategies, particularly in the context of grief and personal challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of gratitude, perspective, and consistency in achieving personal growth and resilience.

Takeaways

• Health is wealth; without it, nothing else matters.
• You can overcome mental health challenges through lifestyle changes.
• Gratitude can shift your perspective and improve your mindset.
• Clean eating is essential for physical and mental health.
• Motivation is important, but consistency is key to growth.
• Your mindset can significantly impact your overall well-being.
• Writing down your challenges can help you process and overcome them.
• Every experience, good or bad, is a learning opportunity.
• Surround yourself with positive influences and information.
• Use your past struggles as fuel for your future success.

You can find Roman and learn more about his coaching by visiting his website below.

http://romanfischerofficial.com

If you are grieving right now, you are not alone.

You can order a copy of my bestselling book Even If-A Holistic Approach to Living A Joy Filled Life With Loss on amazon by clicking here.

https://amzn.to/3x5Qbd8

If you are a fellow grieving mamma and would like to know more about Holistic Grief Academy, my coaching program you can click here

https://holisticgriefacademy.myflodesk.com/prei7fpydj

PS. I would love to stay connected. You can follow me on Instagram @mrsshaunadukes or head over to ShaunaDukes.com for a free ebook on how to support a grieving friend.