Grief Unfiltered: Stories from Grow Through Your Grief

In this solo episode, Krystle explores the immense challenge of grieving the loss of a loved one while parenting young children. The narrator shares their deeply personal story of losing a father to cancer shortly after welcoming their second daughter, and discusses the emotional turmoil and exhaustion that accompanied trying to parent through such immense grief. The episode delves into the struggle of balancing motherhood with anticipatory grief, the guilt and fears that arise, and the moments of small joy that act as a lifeline. Listeners are reminded that parenting doesn't demand perfection, merely presence, even through tear-stained and vulnerable moments. This story is a testament to resilience, the importance of self-care, and the reminder that it's okay to not have it all together while navigating the intersections of grief and parenthood.   📌 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Grieving and Parenting 00:46 The Onset of Grief 02:44 Anticipatory Grief and Guilt 04:31 The Aftermath of Loss 06:02 Finding Strength and Joy 07:12 Healing and Moving Forward 08:30 Honoring Memories 09:01 Conclusion: Sharing and Support   🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

 In this solo episode of 'Grief Unfiltered,' Danette Sugg shares her deeply personal experience with anxiety following the loss of her father. She describes how grief unexpectedly manifested as anxiety, impacting her daily life and well-being. Danette discusses her struggle with the physical symptoms of anxiety, how she learned to recognize and manage it, and the importance of self-compassion and support systems. This episode offers a raw and honest exploration of grief and mental health, providing listeners with insights and relatable experiences to help them on their own healing journey.   📌 Timestamps:   00:00 Welcome to Grief Unfiltered 00:38 Danette's Solo Episode: Anxiety and Grief 01:21 The Unexpected Physical Impact of Grief 03:28 Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety 08:55 Practical Tips for Managing Anxiety 14:57 The Importance of Support Systems 17:22 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this episode, we discuss what has genuinely helped us through our grief and identify the well-intended actions that inadvertently made it harder. We emphasize that true support is about being present rather than fixing the grief. Key points include the importance of having a safe space to express emotions, connecting with others who've experienced similar losses, and the therapeutic benefits of creative outlets and therapy. We also advise those supporting grieving individuals to take initiative and offer direct help, rather than leaving decisions to the bereaved. Finally, we highlight the importance of continued support beyond the initial months of loss. Authenticity, empathy, and presence are underscored as vital elements in grief support. 📌 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Grief Support 00:54 Personal Stories of Grief 02:20 The Power of Vulnerability 04:55 Therapeutic Activities for Grief 10:16 Challenges and Missteps in Grief Support 15:48 Advice for the Grieving and Their Supporters 19:27 Practical Tips for Supporting the Grieving 27:56 Final Thoughts and Resources   🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this episode of Grief Unfiltered, sisters Krystle and Danette discuss their unique grieving processes after losing their father. They share personal experiences about how grief manifested differently for each of them despite facing the same loss. The conversation covers the early days of grief, the relief and challenges of losing a loved one to a prolonged illness, and how societal and familial expectations can add pressure to the grieving process. They also emphasize the importance of therapy and open communication in healing, offering support and advice for those feeling isolated in their grief.   📌 Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to Grief Unfiltered 00:33 Different Ways of Grieving the Same Loss 02:02 Early Days of Grief 07:24 Pressure to Grieve a Certain Way 11:40 Navigating Grief with Family Dynamics 17:52 The Importance of Therapy 29:55 Advice for Those Feeling Isolated in Grief 32:59 Closing Thoughts and Support Resources    🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this episode of Grief Unfiltered, hosts Krystle and Danette discuss the pressures that come with the new year, especially for those who are grieving. Instead of traditional New Year's resolutions, they propose setting gentle intentions to care for oneself. They emphasize the importance of allowing grief to take up space, resting without guilt, and being honest about one's feelings. The episode includes practical tips for integrating these intentions into daily life and offers a guided listener reflection to support those navigating grief. The hosts also share personal experiences and the significance of being compassionate to oneself during this challenging time. 📌 Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to Grief Unfiltered 00:35 Navigating January's Emotional Weight 01:14 Rethinking New Year's Resolutions 03:50 Embracing Gentle Intentions 07:08 Guided Reflection and Setting Intentions 13:09 Personal Reflections on January 17:57 Closing Thoughts and Support 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this heartfelt episode of 'Grief Unfiltered,' sisters Krystle and Danette candidly discuss their personal experiences with grief, particularly during the challenging holiday season. They reflect on their journey of dealing with the loss of their father, sharing their emotions around anniversaries, holidays, and family traditions. The sisters emphasize the importance of allowing oneself to feel and process grief, discuss the impact of grief-induced anxiety, and share coping mechanisms such as therapy, self-care, and open communication. They offer practical advice and support to listeners who are navigating their own grief journeys. The episode concludes with a reminder that grief takes time and space, and that no one has to go through it alone. 📌 Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to Grief Unfiltered 00:33 Emotional Check-In: Coping with Dad's Birthday 01:20 Navigating Holiday Grief 05:36 Keeping Traditions Alive 09:08 Awkward Conversations About Loss 16:23 Reflecting on the Grief Journey 17:06 Capturing Moments: The Importance of Photos 17:32 Grief and Anxiety: A Personal Journey 20:56 The Role of Therapy in Healing 26:19 Managing Anxiety and Self-Care Tips 28:50 The Positive Side of Grief 36:29 Final Reflections and Encouragement 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this heartfelt episode, two siblings converse about their emotions and experiences leading up to and on their late father's birthday. They reflect on the anxiety, memories, and unexpected reminders that surfaced during the week. They discuss how grief resurfaces in various ways and share personal anecdotes about maintaining their dad's memory through traditions and everyday actions. The episode underscores the importance of kindness, the complexity of grief even years later, and the value of keeping loved ones' memories alive. 📌 Timestamps:  00:00 Introduction: Celebrating Dad's Birthday 00:24 Reflecting on the Week Leading Up to Dad's Birthday 01:08 Navigating Grief and Offering Comfort 06:06 Unexpected Reminders of Dad 10:17 Morning Reflections and Daily Reminders 17:12 Keeping Dad's Memory Alive 24:20 The Challenges of Long-Term Grief 30:57 Conclusion: Cherishing Memories and Moving Forward   🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this heartfelt episode, the hosts reflect on the upcoming 74th birthday of their late father, marking a decade since his passing. They share personal anecdotes, fond memories, and the unique traditions they uphold to honor his memory each year, from favorite meals to humorous stories that highlight his distinctive personality. The conversation delves into the challenges of coping with loss, the continued influence of their father on their lives, and the importance of family support. They emphasize the significance of maintaining traditions and the bittersweet nature of remembering a loved one who is no longer physically present.    📌 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Remembering Dad's Birthday 00:35 Reflecting on 10 Years Without Dad 01:47 Personal Traditions and Celebrations 05:28 Dad's Humor and Embarrassing Stories 13:59 Food Memories and Family Traits 16:28 Looking Forward to Celebrating Together 25:29 Conclusion: Celebrating Dad's Legacy   🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this deeply personal episode, the host is joined by her sister Danette to recount the last week of their father's life as he battled terminal lung cancer in hospice care. They share their emotional journey, from the initial phone call signaling the end was near, to the intimate and challenging moments of witnessing their father's decline. With raw emotions and heartfelt anecdotes, they reflect on the importance of family support, self-care during grief, and the bittersweet beauty of being present during a loved one's final days. The sisters aim to offer comfort and solidarity to others facing similar experiences.   📌 Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Purpose 00:37 The Beginning of the Final Week 01:11 First Reactions and Decisions 01:56 Arriving at Hospice 02:33 Danette's Journey Back Home 05:04 Settling into Hospice Routine 05:58 Emotional Roller Coaster 07:55 Comfort and Support in Hospice 23:59 Final Moments and Reflections 31:09 Coping and Moving Forward 38:39 Conclusion and Gratitude   🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey.  🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace.  🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this episode of Grief Unfiltered, we’re talking about something that doesn’t get nearly enough airtime: the tangled mess of grief and health anxiety. You know, when your chest feels tight and your brain skips the “maybe I’m stressed” step and jumps straight to “I’m dying”? Or when you swallow weird, and suddenly you’re Googling dry drowning and planning your will? Yeah. That. Krystle shares how her grief showed up physically—from panic attacks in PetSmart to skipping doctor’s appointments for years out of fear. She talks about the anxiety spirals, the WebMD rabbit holes, and why it all makes so much sense when you’ve watched someone you love slowly (or suddenly) lose their health. This episode is a reminder that you’re not crazy, you’re grieving, and that healing includes your nervous system too. We’re naming it. We’re grounding it. And yes, we’re bringing some dark humor to it (Dead Dad Day, anyone?). If you’ve ever diagnosed yourself with something terrifying… and then you were fine five minutes later, this one’s for you. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome to Grief Unfiltered[00:34] “Is this a panic attack or a heart attack?”[01:40] The PetSmart incident & full-body grief[03:20] Health anxiety is real—and terrifying[05:25] Swallowing wrong & spiraling into worst-case scenarios[07:00] Why grief makes us hyper-aware of our bodies[08:42] Cancer trauma and fear of going to the doctor[10:33] Avoiding the dentist and bloodwork (because, anxiety)[13:15] When your body says “danger” (even if there’s none)[15:02] Naming the anxiety and grounding in the present[17:00] Meet Frankie, Krystle’s anxiety alter ego[18:15] The power of support, therapy, and finding “your person”[20:00] Dark humor and how grievers survive awkward moments[22:30] You’re not alone (even when your brain says otherwise) 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this deeply personal episode of Grief Unfiltered, Krystle shares the day her life was split in two: before and after her dad’s terminal cancer diagnosis. She takes us through the moment she got the call, the slow unraveling of his health, and the emotional toll of anticipatory grief. From weekly lunch dates to his final days in hospice, Krystle opens up about what it felt like to love, to lose, and to begin again. If you’re navigating grief—or supporting someone who is—this episode offers comfort, connection, and a reminder that you’re not alone in how messy and complicated it all feels. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome to Grief Unfiltered[00:34] Content warning & context: "the day my life was split in two"[01:25] Life before the diagnosis: newborns, postpartum, exhaustion[04:07] Anxiety, depression, and a toxic job (unrecognized at the time)[05:25] Her relationship with her dad through childhood[07:06] Weekly lunch dates and growing into friendship[08:40] The day of the call: a normal rainy day turns life-changing[10:32] "It’s cancer" – and everything shifts[13:01] How it was misdiagnosed for months[14:11] The bad cancer: fast-spreading, not treatable with a pill[15:30] Treatment, retirement, and the emotional decline[16:36] The fall, emergency surgery, and devastating scans[19:12] Entering hospice and the "mindf***" of not knowing what comes next[20:35] The final weeks: ice cream, joy, and small comforts[22:15] When he became unresponsive—and then rallied[25:23] Saying goodbye with laughter, love, and one-liners[26:46] His final moments and the quiet beauty of passing[29:32] The complicated feelings of relief and grief[32:36] The surreal aftermath and emotional shock[33:25] The wave of logistics, planning, and showing up[34:41] Standing room only: honoring his legacy[36:06] The moment it really hit: “my life will never be the same”[37:34] The transformation that began with loss[38:45] Living fully, saying yes, and carrying him everywhere[39:13] Outro: "Healing isn’t a straight path, but we’re walking it together" 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

🖤 Trigger Warning: Includes discussion of a fatal car accident, trauma response, and sudden loss. In this raw and completely unscripted episode of Grief Unfiltered, Krystle shares the emotional fallout from witnessing a fatal car accident earlier the same day. It’s a story about shock, helplessness, survivor’s guilt, and the way sudden trauma can resurface deep grief, even for people you didn’t know. Krystle talks through the exact moment it happened, the bystander guilt that followed, and how it stirred memories of her dad’s death and the early days of her grief. This is an unfiltered, deeply personal episode—recorded not as a polished message, but as a moment of real processing. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome to Grief Unfiltered[00:28] What happened: recording hours after witnessing a fatal accident[01:15] The moment of the crash: what Krystle saw and felt[03:42] Pulling over, shock setting in, the bystander effect[06:56] Realizing the cars were on fire and people were trapped[10:02] Thinking about the people who weren’t going home[13:27] The ripple effect: someone’s entire life just changed[15:14] Survivor’s guilt and “should I have helped?”[20:08] Krystle’s husband helps her process the guilt[22:58] Reflecting on how close it could’ve been[25:47] Acknowledging: “It wasn’t my time”[27:25] When unexpected trauma reactivates your grief[30:58] Feeling that ache for strangers—and their families[33:26] Final reflection + an invitation to connect[34:57] Outro: take care of yourself and drive safe 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

What’s harder—losing someone suddenly, or watching the decline for months (or years)? Let’s be real: both hurt like hell. In this episode of Grief Unfiltered, I’m breaking down the emotional differences between unexpected and anticipated loss. I’ve lived through both—getting that shocking phone call I never saw coming, and the long, excruciating goodbye to my dad. Both kinds of grief leave a mark, but they show up in different ways—and they ask different things from us. We’re talking about trauma, guilt, exhaustion, regret, caretaking, and the pressure to “stay strong” when you’re falling apart inside. Whether you’re grieving someone you lost in an instant or someone you said goodbye to over and over again… your grief is real. And you’re not alone. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome: Grief doesn’t come in one flavor[00:34] What makes sudden loss feel like a gut punch[01:55] Personal story: losing Justin and my cousin[06:45] The shock, the guilt, and all the what-ifs[07:45] Anticipatory grief: the pain before the loss[08:58] Watching my dad fade[17:00] Saying goodbye: the beauty and brutality of it[24:09] Comparing grief: why it’s not a contest[26:47] What support looks like for each kind of grief[28:57] Final thoughts: your grief is valid, no matter how it started 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

There are a lot of myths out there about grief—and honestly, some of them do real damage. In this episode of Grief Unfiltered, Krystle is calling BS on the most common (and most frustrating) myths about grief: that time heals all wounds, that grief follows “stages,” that crying = grieving, and so many more. If you've ever felt pressure to “move on,” stay strong, or find closure… this one’s for you. Krystle shares her personal experiences, unpacks where these myths come from, and gives you permission to grieve in your own way. No timeline. No shoulds. Just real talk. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome & intro: Grief myths that drive us nuts[01:16] Myth 1: Time heals all wounds[06:57] Why healing isn’t passive—it’s work[07:18] Myth 2: Grief follows 5 neat little stages[11:19] Grief isn’t a checklist. It’s a lifelong spiral[11:40] Myth 3: If you’re not crying, you’re not grieving[14:22] Let’s talk about grief that doesn’t show up in tears[15:10] Myth 4: You should be over it by now[18:51] When people say this (and why it’s so wrong)[20:17] Myth 5: Grief only happens after death[22:20] Naming all types of loss—even the “invisible” ones[22:46] Myth 6: Being strong means staying silent[27:39] Vulnerability = real strength[30:56] Why Krystle shares her grief so openly[31:17] Myth 7: You only grieve the person you lost[34:36] Grieving the future, the version of you that had them[35:06] Myth 8: Faith or positivity should make it easier[37:17] Why you can believe in something and still be gutted[37:43] Myth 9: Closure is the goal[39:00] What real healing looks like (and it’s not a finish line)[41:33] Final thoughts + reminder: You’re not alone 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

Self-care sounds simple… until you're grieving. In this episode of Grief Unfiltered, host Krystle Hall breaks down what practical, everyday self-care really looks like when you're grieving. Spoiler Alert: it's not spa days or green juice (unless that helps). It’s about survival: granola bars in your nightstand, hydration hacks, and showering while sitting on the floor. Through candid stories and honest advice, Krystle offers a roadmap for how to care for yourself when just existing feels like work. Whether you’re deep in the trenches of loss or trying to support someone who is, this episode reminds us that healing starts small. Like really small, and that those tiny wins count. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00]Welcome to Grief Unfiltered[00:34] What “self-care” really means when you’re grieving[01:18] Basic maintenance: food, water, and just surviving[03:42] Hydration hacks (yes, even the ridiculous water bottle works)[06:54] Eating something (anything!) and why it matters[07:37] What counts as self-care (hint: it’s not always a pedicure)[09:48] Little resets: sunshine, socks, and rage-cleaning[10:48] Can’t get out of bed? Try the timer trick[12:14] Krystle’s therapy journey + building habits slowly[13:36] Sit-in showers and the magic of clean clothes[15:17] The power of small, daily rituals[16:40] The hard truth: your loved one isn’t coming back[18:26] Two choices: let grief consume you or carry it with you[20:13] Homework: one tiny act of self-care today[22:15] Final reminder: you deserve to live—and thrive 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this episode of Grief Unfiltered, Krystle Hall explores a powerful question so many of us wrestle with: “Am I allowed to feel joy… even now?” Through deeply personal storytelling, she shares the moment she realized joy and grief aren’t at war—they’re companions. From spontaneous laughter to sunshine on your face, these moments can feel both healing and heavy. Guilt shows up. The “shoulds” kick in. But what if allowing joy isn’t forgetting your person—it’s honoring them? Krystle walks us through what it looks like to carry both, how joy doesn’t erase your grief, and how healing begins when you stop seeing joy as the enemy. This episode is your permission slip to smile, laugh, and live—even with your grief riding shotgun. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome & intro: Why this episode matters[00:31 The guilt of feeling joy after loss[01:16] Life doesn’t stop when your world does[02:39] Can joy mean forgetting them?[03:40] Society’s unspoken grief “rules”[04:58] If the roles were reversed—what would they want for you?[06:16] When Krystle realized she wasn’t really living[07:55] The slow return of joy, one small step at a time[09:22] Relearning what it means to live[10:45] Finding beauty in the tiny, ordinary things[11:35] Joy doesn’t cancel grief—it honors your love[13:17] The truth: Grief doesn’t shrink—you grow stronger[14:50] The emotional “weightlifting” of healing[15:53] Releasing guilt: step-by-step[17:41] The fragility of life—and the power of choice[18:35] Practicing small joys with intention[19:53] What support (and resistance) can look like[21:02] Naming your grief—Frankie returns 🫶[22:43] Letting grief ride along, but not drive[23:25] Final thoughts + invitation to connect 💬 Quotes to Remember: “Grief doesn’t demand your constant suffering. It just wants to be acknowledged.” “You’re not betraying your loved one by living. You’re honoring them by making the most of the life you still have.” “Let joy sit at the table too.” 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

In this heartfelt episode of Grief Unfiltered, host Krystle Hall takes us into the world of “the firsts”. Those gut-wrenching moments that follow the loss of a loved one. From birthdays and holidays to the unexpected grief triggers (like a milk carton expiration date or a commercial on TV), Krystle opens up about how these milestones hit differently—and often harder—than we expect. Through vulnerable storytelling and lived experience, she shares practical ways to navigate the firsts, shift your mindset, and honor your grief without judgment. Listener stories add humor, humanity, and warmth to the conversation, reminding us that we’re never alone in our pain—or our healing. Whether you're facing a painful date on the calendar or supporting someone who is, this episode offers deep comfort and gentle guidance. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome & Episode Intro[00:30] The dreaded firsts: birthdays, holidays, and more[01:11] The emotional build-up vs. the actual day[02:14] Grief triggers: milk cartons, calendars, commercials[03:36] Birthday dinner breakdown (and surprise joy)[05:04] No rules: Grief is unpredictable and personal[06:35] Navigating big days: celebrate or skip?[07:46] The unexpected pain of public holidays and ads[08:44] Envy, mindset shifts, and honoring the living[11:02] Survival tips: Make a plan, be flexible[13:44] The weird relief that comes after the hard day[15:00] Starting new traditions (or skipping them)[16:16] Talk about them—don’t avoid their name[17:04] Feel it all: the good, the bad, and the weird[18:33] When distraction helps—but not forever[19:38] Listener stories: burnt turkeys, spaghetti fails & Hallmark roasts[20:45] Final thoughts: it doesn't get easier—you just get better at carrying it 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

Grief in the 21st century looks a little different. In this episode of Grief Unfiltered, host Krystle Hall explores how mourning has shifted in the digital age. From Facebook memorials to tribute TikToks, she unpacks the beauty and awkwardness of grieving online. Through personal stories and follower experiences, Krystle reflects on how digital spaces can both support healing and complicate grief. Whether you're someone who posts to feel close to your loved one or someone who prefers to grieve quietly offline, this episode is here to remind you: there is no "right" way to grieve. Just your way. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome to Grief Unfiltered – What this podcast is all about[00:34] Grieving in a Digital World – A look at how grief has changed over time[01:36] The Evolution of Mourning Practices – From portraits to posts[02:34] The Benefits of Digital Grieving – Connection, memory sharing, and virtual support[06:24] The Downsides of Public Grief – Pressure to post, awkward reminders, and trolls[08:42] Digital Legacy Planning – Memorial pages and AI grief tech[10:36] Personal Stories of Digital Grief – Krystle and listeners share how the digital world has impacted their grief[16:03] Final Thoughts on Grieving Online – Honor your grief, your way[16:37] Closing Remarks – How to connect and share your own story 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

Grief changes us. In this deeply personal episode, Krystle Hall opens up about her own journey through loss, sharing how she endured the heartbreaking experience of losing 8 loved ones in just 11 years. From sudden tragedies to anticipatory grief, Krystle recounts how each loss shaped her, broke her, and ultimately led her toward healing. She candidly explores the emotional impact of grief, the dark moments she faced, and the hard-earned lessons she’s learned along the way. If you’ve ever felt like grief was swallowing you whole, this episode is here to remind you—you are not alone and healing is possible. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome to Grief Unfiltered – What this podcast is about and why Krystle is sharing her story[00:30] Why this episode matters – A message of hope for those struggling with loss[01:19] How grief changed my life – Losing 8 people in 11 years and what it taught me[02:17] Understanding different types of loss – How grief affects us in unique ways[05:00] The first major loss – Losing her cousin, Bonnie, and the shock of grief[08:25] Losing her dad – Navigating anticipatory grief and the emotional toll of terminal illness[10:49] Her mother’s fiancé – A painful but different kind of loss[11:40] Watching her father decline – The hardest experience of her life[14:23] The downward spiral – Anxiety, depression, and facing grief head-on[17:10] Therapy and healing – What finally helped her move forward[19:37] Losing her grandmother & grandfather – How perspective on grief evolved over time[22:36] Losing two close coworkers – The unique pain of grieving friendships[24:53] Her mother-in-law’s battle with cancer – Finding strength in love and memories[26:39] What grief has taught me – Love, loss, and learning to live again[27:49] Final thoughts – You can survive this, and you are not alone 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.

Grief doesn’t always begin at the moment of loss—it can start long before. In this episode, host Krystle Hall dives into anticipatory grief, the emotions we experience when we know a loss is coming. She shares personal stories of navigating the slow, painful reality of knowing goodbye is inevitable, from the decline of a beloved pet to losing her father and other family members. Whether you’re facing a terminal diagnosis of a loved one, watching someone decline, or experiencing a major life transition, this episode will help you feel less alone. Krystle breaks down the emotional rollercoaster of anticipatory grief and offers insights on coping with the unknown. 📌 Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome to Grief Unfiltered – Introduction and what this podcast is about[00:49] What is anticipatory grief? – Understanding grief that begins before loss occurs[01:26] Signs and emotions – How anticipatory grief can manifest, from sadness and anxiety to guilt and relief[02:43] Personal stories – Krystle shares six personal experiences with anticipatory grief[03:06] Bailey & Chloe – The heartbreaking journey of losing her dogs and seeing their bond in grief[10:25] Losing her dad – A deeply personal story of watching her father fight a terminal illness[21:48] The waiting game – How knowing loss is coming affects mental health and daily life[27:09] Her grandparents’ stories – Anticipating loss due to age and illness[30:06] Her mother-in-law’s journey – A different experience of anticipatory grief with a longer prognosis[32:05] Common experiences – Mood swings, awkward conversations, and the impact of “at least” statements[33:39] Emotional stages – Denial, anger, bargaining, sadness, and eventual acceptance[36:07] Communicating with loved ones – The importance of open conversations, no matter how uncomfortable[37:29] Key takeaways – Don’t do it alone, take it one day at a time, and find moments of joy[38:47] Final thoughts – Grief doesn’t mean stopping life; it means learning how to keep living 🌿 Get Support: 🌱 Ready to grow through your grief? Get my Befriend Your Grief course for the support and tools needed to transform your pain into a meaningful journey. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/befriend-your-grief 🌧️ Want to see how your grief is affecting you? Download my free quiz and complete it at your own pace. https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/how-grief-is-affecting-me 🌐 Website: https://www.growthroughyourgrief.net/ 🎶 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@growthroughyourgrief 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growthroughyourgrief/ Subscribe to Grief Unfiltered + download each episode on Apple, Spotify, or Android.