In this deeply moving episode, Lisa and Gretchen talk candidly about how milestone days like birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays impact those living with grief, especially suicide loss survivors. Through laughter, tears, and lived experience, they offer real-life tools, comfort, and hope for navigating the pain of remembrance while keeping the love alive.

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📝 Episode Summary:

Lisa opens up about losing her father to suicide 47 years ago and how milestone days—like birthdays, Father’s Day, and August 1st (his death anniversary)—still hit hard. Gretchen shares her own grief experiences, including how she transformed Valentine’s Day, the anniversary of her mother’s funeral, into a new chapter through podcasting. Together, they hold space for listeners navigating their own grief, emphasizing that there is no “right” way to mourn. Whether you're years into your grief or fresh in the pain, this episode is for you.

💡 Lessons Learned:

• Grief doesn’t have an expiration date—it evolves.


• You’re allowed to feel joy, sadness, anger, or all three at once.


• Rituals can offer comfort and connection to loved ones lost.


• Talking to someone—friends, family, a therapist, or a warmline—can ease the weight.


• Grieving is not weakness; it’s love in motion.

📖 Chapters:

00:00 – Trigger Warning & Introduction

01:00 – Lisa’s Birthday & Father’s Day Reflections

02:30 – Gretchen's Story: Valentine’s Day & Her Mother’s Passing

04:00 – Building Relationships with Lost Loved Ones

06:00 – The Power of Rituals and Letters

08:00 – Suicide Attempt Reflections & Christmas Grief

09:00 – Navigating Special Occasions Alone

11:00 – There's No Wrong Way to Grieve

14:00 – Journaling & Safe Spaces

16:00 – Lisa on Loneliness & Community Support

18:30 – The Importance of Warm Lines

20:00 – Therapy as Ongoing Support

22:00 – Grief as a Sign of Love

23:00 – Book Recommendation: Grief Is Love by Marisa Renee Lee

26:00 – A Friend’s Tribute: Honoring the Memory of Lisa’s Dad

29:00 – Remembering with Love & Living the Legacy

30:00 – Final Thoughts & Encouragement

📚 Resources for Mental Health & Support

🔹 The Survivors Podcast Website: https://thesurvivors.net/

🔹 The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks: https://www.thehelphub.co/

🔹 Schoser Talent and Wellness Solutions – Mental wellness coaching & support: https://schosersolutions.com/

🔹 Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads – A raw, award-winning mental health podcast: https://goesoninourheads.net/

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🎙️ See You Next Week! Stay strong, keep going, and remember: You are enough. 💜