In this episode, I sit down with Chris Mamone to talk about the complex reality of grief. Chris shares his personal experience of losing his son to stillbirth in 2022, and he explains how this massive loss forced him to re-evaluate everything he knew about processing pain.

We discuss why grief goes far beyond just losing a loved one, noting that it can include job loss, moving, or losing relationships. Chris and I also explore the societal pressure to "get over it," the damage caused by shame, and how we can show up better for ourselves and those around us.

We Covered:

• Grief is not a problem to be fixed; it is a process of personal transformation.
• The danger of the "yo-yo effect" happens when we let societal shame disconnect us from our true feelings.
• We must stop comparing our losses to the losses of others, as every experience is unique.
• You can support a grieving friend by simply being present and holding space instead of trying to offer solutions.
• It is possible to navigate the loss of connection and friendships in today's divisive social and political climate by focusing on what you can control.

Memorable Quotes:

"Most of us walk around with it and don't even know it." "Grievers don't need to be fixed. They don't need to be told what to do." "Grief does not discriminate in any capacity."

More About Chris:

Chris Mamone is an Acceptance Coach and the Founder of The Empowered Grief Coaching Practice and Podcast. He helps individuals move from a place of pain into a place of hope and empowerment through their grief.

Chris supports those navigating grief, loss, and trauma to rediscover self-acceptance and step into their personal power so they can create an inspiring future grounded in healing, truth, and purpose. He is also releasing a book featuring 23 stories of grief this coming November.

Connect with Chris:

Website: http://www.empoweredgriefjourney.com/

Podcast: https://empoweredgriefjourney.podbean.com/

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

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empoweredgriefjourney

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/empoweredgriefjourney/