Big Grief Podcast

About Big Grief Podcast

A podcast on how we deal with grief, grieving, and all of life's Big Griefs. Hosted by writer and grief coach Alison P Cook.

Publisher

Big Grief Podcast

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

12 Feb 2025

Latest episode

7 May 2025

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 May 2025

   Episode 14 - The Grief Journey: Listener Questions Continued and Personal Reflections on Faith, Endurance, and Growth

   In this sincere episode, host Alison addresses vital questions from listeners about faith during grief, particularly how faith in God may waver in times of deep loss. She reflects on her journey of losing both parents and the profound impact of grief on her outlook on life, highlighting the disparity in human support and resilience. Through raw and sincere storytelling, she relays the emotional challenges, revelations about true companionship, the piercing sense of loneliness, and the transformation that comes from significant loss. The discussion also delves into how grief alters one’s perspective on what truly matters, fostering a deep appreciation for resilience and endurance. Alison emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, the lifelong journey of grief, and the power of sharing experiences to help others feel less alone. This episode is a poignant exploration of how grief shapes us and the importance of continuing to move forward, one day at a time. Tune in to understand the resilience required to navigate grief and how it shapes one's life forever. 00:00 Introduction and Sensitive Topics 01:32 Faith in Grief: Personal Experience 02:02 Losing Faith in People 03:13 Challenges During Hospice Care 09:06 The Impact of Grief on Daily Life 20:55 Endurance and Resilience 24:59 Reflections and Moving Forward 29:02 Conclusion and Season 2 Preview

2. 

   30 Apr 2025

   Episode 13 - Understanding Grief: Listener Questions and Personal Insights

   In this heartfelt solo episode of the Big Grief Podcast, host Alison addresses listeners' questions about grief, sharing her own experiences and insights on topics such as the brain's reaction to loss, the concept of 'big grief' days, and dealing with compounded and delayed grief. She also discusses the physical and emotional changes that accompany grief, including weight issues and self-care. She also shares her personal story of writing a children's book on grief and reflects on how writing helped her cope with loss. Join Alison as she provides comfort, understanding, and practical advice for navigating the complexities of grief. 00:00 Welcome to the Big Grief Podcast 00:12 Listener Questions Received 00:45 Season Finale and Upcoming Break 02:35 Promoting My Children's Book on Grief 05:10 Diving into Listener Questions on Grief 05:36 The Brain's Struggle with Loss 06:42 Triggers and Compounded Grief 13:00 Delayed Grief and Its Impact 20:53 Physical Changes and Self-Care in Grief 31:44 Supporting the Grieving: Practical Tips

3. 

   23 Apr 2025

   Episode 12 - Breaking the Silence: Addressing Mental Health, Suicide, and Creating Safe Spaces

   *CONTENT WARNING* THIS EPISODE DISCUSSES SUICIDE AND THOSE WHO HAVE DIED BY SUICIDE. SOME VIEWERS AND LISTENERS MAY WANT TO AVOID THIS EPISODE IF THEY FIND THIS SUBJECT DISTURBING. ***If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or you need to speak with someone, help is available. Please call or text the Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988 or visit them online at 988lifeline.org to chat with someone who can help. You are not alone. Please reach out if you’re struggling. In part 2 of this powerful and heartfelt discussion, guest Ciciley and host Alison talk candidly about mental health, the importance of safe spaces, and the impact of suicide and grief. They emphasize the need to speak openly about these issues, share personal experiences, and offer practical advice on supporting oneself and others. Topics include the benefits of pets, the significance of gratitude, and the shocking statistics surrounding suicide in various communities. They also stress the importance of having a plan and providing resources for those in crisis. This episode is an essential watch for anyone affected by mental health issues or looking to support someone who is struggling. 00:00 Opening Thoughts on Mental Health 00:39 The Importance of Connection and Pets 02:17 Gratitude and Mental Health 04:09 The Impact of Suicide 07:55 Personal Stories of Loss 14:56 The Creative Community and Mental Health 15:29 Remembering Brittany 15:40 A Special Movie Project 17:00 Travel Memories and Reflections 17:45 The Importance of Reaching Out 19:05 Resources and Support Systems 19:38 The Therapeutic Power of Ducks 24:43 Acts of Kindness and Connection 30:27 Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health 32:35 Concluding Thoughts on Mental Health This episode and the previous episode are dedicated to our friend Brittany Belland, as well as all our other friends and family members lost to suicide. Please reach out if you're struggling. You are important, and we want you here.

4. 

   16 Apr 2025

   Episode 11 - The Unspoken: Exploring Grief, Mental Health, and Suicide

   *CONTENT WARNING* THIS EPISODE DISCUSSES SUICIDE AND THOSE WHO HAVE DIED BY SUICIDE. SOME VIEWERS AND LISTENERS MAY WANT TO AVOID THIS EPISODE IF THEY FIND THIS SUBJECT DISTURBING. ***If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or you need to speak with someone, help is available. Please call or text the Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988 or visit them online at 988lifeline.org to chat with someone who can help. You are not alone. Please reach out if you’re struggling. Join the candid and open conversation between friends Ciciley Hoffman, a costume designer and wardrobe stylist, and host Alison as they discuss their personal experiences with loss, grief, and the often taboo subject of suicide. Ciciley shares insights on her journey through grief, the importance of talking about mental health, and why society needs to break the silence surrounding suicide prevention. The discussion covers the emotional impact of losing friends to suicide, the stigma that prevents open dialogue, and the crucial need for mental health education and supportive conversations. 00:00 Intro and Ciciley’s Introduction 00:40 Memories and Shared Experiences 03:15 Discussing Suicide and Its Impact 07:49 Personal Stories of Loss 15:36 The Importance of Talking About Mental Health 25:56 Addressing Misconceptions and Stigma 29:09 Understanding the Lie of Suicide 29:42 More Personal Stories of Loss 32:23 The Importance of Having a Plan to Support Others 34:09 Resources and Community Support 37:11 Celebrity Suicides and Collective Grief 40:01 The Need for Open Conversations 48:02 Personal Reflections on Grief 53:34 Breaking the Cycle of Silence

5. 

   9 Apr 2025

   Episode 10 - Overcoming Fear and Embracing Hope: A Conversation with Terry Tucker, Part 2

   In this insightful episode, host Alison and guest Terry Tucker discuss key principles from his book 'Sustainable Excellence,' focusing on how fear and insecurities often hold people back. Through personal anecdotes and motivational stories, Terry emphasizes the importance of hope and perseverance in overcoming life's challenges, especially when grieving. He shares a powerful experiment on the resilience of rats to illustrate human potential and the significance of going through pain and grief. Additionally, Terry recounts emotional tales from his personal life, highlighting the vital role of hope, support systems, and the human spirit in navigating grief, loss, and significant life changes. Join us for a profound conversation about hope, significance, and enduring through adversity. 00:00 Introduction: Facing Fears and Insecurities 01:37 The Power of Hope: A Rat's Tale 03:49 Pushing Through Pain: Marathon Lessons 05:42 The Importance of Hope in Overcoming Grief 07:53 Doctors, Predictions, and the Will to Live 10:14 The Role of Faith and a Higher Power 14:35 Grief, Brain, and New Normal 16:32 Hostage Negotiation and Emotional Decisions 18:29 Writing the Book: Sustainable Excellence 24:00 Conclusion: Promoting the Book and Final Thoughts

6. 

   2 Apr 2025

   Episode 9 - Overcoming Fear and Finding Purpose in Grief: A Conversation with Terry Tucker, Part 1

   In this episode of the Big Grief Podcast, host Alison sits down with Terry Tucker, a cancer survivor, former police officer, and author of 'Sustainable Excellence: Ten Principles to Leading Your Uncommon and Extraordinary Life.' Terry shares his inspiring life story and discusses how his diverse experiences have shaped him, including his struggle with cancer and how he navigated through grief. They explore the principles in his book related to dealing with grief and maintaining a positive mindset during challenging times. Tune in for part 1 of this heartfelt conversation and gain insights on finding purpose amidst life's greatest challenges. 00:00 Welcome to the Big Grief Podcast 00:12 Introducing Terry Tucker 01:21 Terry's Background and Life Journey 06:41 Finding Purpose Amidst Grief 12:36 Personal Stories of Loss and Resilience 18:00 The Importance of Connection and Community 20:34 Overcoming Fears and Embracing Growth

7. 

   26 Mar 2025

   Episode 8 - Time, Grief, and Connection

   In this final part of their sincere and deep conversation, Alison and Heather continue discussing their journeys through grief after both the sudden and gradual loss of loved ones. They explore the complexities of anticipatory grief, the emotional impact of unexpected death, and the poignant lessons on time's fleeting nature, reflecting on how time becomes a precious yet elusive concept during mourning. Their exchange highlights the importance of small moments, deepening friendships, and emotional support through simple gestures. Despite the pain, they find comfort in shared memories and the resilience they've developed, striving to help others navigate similar experiences. Their dialogue concludes with mutual support and recognition of the personal growth and resilience that grief has instilled in them. 00:00 Introduction: Sudden Loss and Grieving 00:29 Anticipatory Grief and Its Challenges 01:55 The Unpredictability of Time 04:43 Cherishing Small Moments 05:37 The Importance of Reaching Out 11:13 Dealing with Personal Belongings 14:12 The Journey of Grief and Resilience 18:56 Honoring Loved Ones and Their Legacy 21:07 Conclusion: Support and Connection

8. 

   19 Mar 2025

   Episode 7 - Navigating Grief and Finding Peace: A Candid Conversation

   In Part 3 of this heartfelt conversation, Alison and Heather share their experiences with grief, anxiety, and the emotional aftermath of losing loved ones. They delve into feelings of constant dread, seeking approval from the deceased, and the struggle to enjoy happy moments. Through their candid conversation, they describe how they cope with their grief, such as looking for signs from their loved ones, setting boundaries, and recognizing the importance of little moments. This insightful discussion highlights the complexities of navigating life after loss and the ongoing effort to find personal peace and acceptance. 00:00 Living in Constant Fear After Loss 01:32 Cherishing the Little Moments 02:56 Seeking Approval and Self-Reflection 08:00 Decision Fatigue and Isolation 11:48 Finding Comfort in Signs and Memories 15:16 The Healing Power of Shared Grief 16:40 Carrying Emotional Baggage 17:22 The Importance of Shared Experiences 18:15 The Power of Presence 19:34 Practical Support During Grief 20:54 Navigating Social Interactions 24:50 Setting Boundaries for Mental Health 27:59 Seeking Control in Unpredictable Times

9. 

   12 Mar 2025

   Episode 6 - A Life Divided: Before and After Loss

   Episode 6 - A Life Divided: Before and After Loss In Part 2 of Alison’s conversation with Heather Golczynski, they discuss the profound and multifaceted nature of grief, emphasizing that it's not just the loss of a loved one but also the loss of normalcy. They recount personal experiences of losing loved ones, describing the enduring impact of these losses on day-to-day life and emotional well-being. The conversation explores themes such as the misconceptions surrounding grief, the secondary losses that accompany the death of a loved one, and the physical and emotional responses triggered by anniversaries and memories. Offering insights into the importance of resilience, support networks, and self-care, this episode provides a candid and poignant exploration of what it means to live with and carry grief. 00:00 Understanding the Depth of Loss 01:06 Life Divided by Loss 01:49 Anger and Isolation in Grief 04:07 Physical and Emotional Trauma 05:51 The Strange Concept of Time in Grief 07:43 Strength and Silence 14:59 Isolation During Covid 15:54 Navigating Grief During COVID-19 17:01 Coping with Isolation and Loss 17:46 Reflecting on Choices and Regrets 18:35 Personal Grieving Styles 19:38 Memories and Sentimental Objects 21:47 Cherished Moments with Marc 25:57 Dealing with Inherited Items 27:01 Facing Mortality and Future Planning 29:09 Living with Constant Fear of Loss

10. 

    5 Mar 2025

    Episode 5 - Grieving in the Public Eye: A Conversation with Heather Golczynski

    In this heartfelt and poignant episode, Alison's friend Heather Golczynski shares her emotional journey of grappling with the loss of her former husband, Marc, a United States Marine Staff Sergeant, and later, her brother Jason. Heather recounts the impactful moments of Marc's military service, his redeployment after 9/11, and ultimately his death in Fallujah, Iraq in March 2007. She describes the overwhelming grief that followed, especially the public nature of their mourning due to a famous and viral photograph of their 8-year-old son, Christian, accepting the folded flag at Marc’s funeral. Heather also discusses the subsequent loss of her brother Jason in a car accident five years later and details how she managed her grief while taking on a caretaker role for her family. Throughout the narrative, Heather illustrates the immense impact of communal support, her work with various foundations, and the difficulty of navigating life’s milestones through an ever-present lens of grief. Her story sheds light on the complexities of mourning military deaths and the enduring challenges of personal loss. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:58 Heather's Story: Meeting Marc and Early Years 01:19 Marc's Military Service and Deployment 02:45 The Tragic News: Marc's Death 06:08 Coping with Grief and Public Attention 07:25 The Funeral and Its Aftermath 10:47 Life After Marc: Challenges and Support 19:03 Another Tragedy: Loss of Heather's Brother 23:53 Finding Purpose and Helping Others 29:35 Reflections on Grief and Moving Forward

11. 

    26 Feb 2025

    Episode 4 - Coping with Loss: Navigating Grief and Home Repairs

    Coping with Loss: Navigating Grief and Home Repairs In this emotional episode, Alison reflects on the loss of her parents and the ongoing challenges of maintaining their house. She discusses the struggle for parental approval and the physical and emotional toll of dealing with a home in disrepair. Through memories of sparse affection and unexpected responsibilities, Alison illustrates the complexities of grief and the bittersweet task of fulfilling her mother's last wish. Dave joins the conversation, adding insights on processing grief and the importance of time and perspective. Tune in for a touching discussion that highlights the intersections of life, death, and the everyday struggles in between. 00:00 Reflecting on Parental Approval and Reactions 01:01 Mom's Last Words and the House List 01:58 Parents' Affection and Approval 03:57 Battling Time and Completing Tasks 04:40 Frustrations with Home Repairs 05:49 Pandemic Door Replacement Saga 08:25 Roof Replacement and Water Damage 10:41 Complicated Grief and Safe Spaces 11:56 Dealing with Dad's Blindness to Problems 14:12 Inheriting and Fixing the House 16:59 Seeking a Breather from Life's Challenges 18:23 Processing Grief and Gaining Perspective 19:04 Closing Thoughts and Farewell 19:08 The Podcast Journey

12. 

    19 Feb 2025

    Episode 3 - Navigating Grief and Creativity: A Deep Dive into Personal Loss and Growth

    In this heartfelt episode, Alison shares her journey through grief after losing her parents, reflecting on the impact of true friendships, the isolation of the pandemic, and the transformative effect of grief on creativity. Alison and Dave discuss the challenges of losing loved ones, the complexities of grief and human connection, and how Alison’s experience has shaped her writing and life purpose. The conversation touches on themes of empathy, the different forms of grief, and how profound loss can lead to deeper, more meaningful relationships and creative expression. 00:00 The True Friends After Loss 00:50 Navigating Grief and Support Systems 02:36 The Role of Empathy in Grief 06:52 Grief's Impact on Creativity 12:07 Personal Journey Through Grief 14:22 The Universality and Uniqueness of Grief 19:35 Coping Mechanisms and Changes 23:45 The Emotional Toll of Funerals 31:25 Living with Grief and ADHD

13. 

    12 Feb 2025

    Episode 2 - Grief and the Complexity of Loss

    Transforming Grief: Turning a Parent's Bedroom into a Sanctuary In this heartfelt episode, Alison shares the emotional journey of transforming her late parents' bedroom into a personal office. The narrative delves into the difficulty of letting go, the persistent feeling that her parents are just away temporarily, and the peculiar emotional ties to the house and its contents. Alison recounts dealing with structural issues, battling a mouse infestation, and discovering mold while also navigating the intense and multifaceted emotions of grief. She reflects on the realization that despite living in the house longer than her parents or grandparents, it still doesn't feel like her own. Alison and Dave explore how grief is not just about losing a loved one but also about secondary losses and the enduring connection to the past through the belongings left behind. They also touch on the challenges of maintaining a house, the weight of inherited possessions, and the complex emotions tied to time and memory. 00:00 Transforming My Parents' Bedroom into an Office 00:43 Dealing with the Emotional Weight of My Parents' Absence 02:50 Renovating and Repurposing the House 06:59 The Mouse Infestation and Other Challenges 13:09 Grief and the Complexity of Loss 17:13 Navigating Family Heirlooms and Memories 21:35 The Emotional Toll of Losing Parents 22:27 Reflecting on Time and Grief 26:20 The Struggle for Control and Understanding 31:43 The Need for Time to Process Grief

14. 

    12 Feb 2025

    Episode 1 - Grief Unfiltered

    Episode 1 - Grief Unfiltered Navigating the Complex Journey of Grief with Alison and Dave In the inaugural episode of the Big Grief Podcast, certified grief coach and writer Alison Cook introduces the show, focusing on the raw and often hidden aspects of grieving. Joined by her long-time friend Dave, Alison shares her personal journey of losing both parents to rare cancers within 14 months, navigating homeownership responsibilities, and dealing with complicated grief. The duo discusses the importance of understanding that grief is not linear, tackling deeply personal experiences and societal avoidance of grief topics. This episode serves as an invitation to listeners to openly discuss their own grief and find solace in shared experiences. 00:00 Introduction to the Big Grief Podcast 00:38 Alison's Personal Grief Journey 01:40 Meet Co-Host Dave 02:49 The Importance of Normalizing Grief 04:30 Understanding Grief's Non-Linear Nature 05:14 Deep Dive into Personal Grief Stories 10:10 Reflecting on Time and Loss 18:52 The Role of a Caretaker 22:03 Lighthearted Moments and Future Plans

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

181

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Spotify

4.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 56 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

73

Social presence

0

YouTube

66

Engagement

32

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.