
What Happens Next: Stories of Grief and Loss | Ryder’s Story
Claim This Podcastby Nick Mendelke - Parenting After Loss
Podcast Overview
<p>This podcast explores life’s most unexpected and life-altering moments—grief, trauma, loss, and the long journey of healing after everything changes.</p> <p>From devastating diagnoses to unimaginable loss, these are the moments that don’t just interrupt your life—they redefine it. Through raw personal storytelling and honest conversations, we dive into what happens next: how we cope with grief, navigate trauma, rebuild identity, and find a way forward after loss.</p> <p>Season One focuses on the loss of our son, Ryder, during a full-term pregnancy—a sudden and heartbreaking experience of child loss and stillbirth. This season shares the shock, heartbreak, and emotional aftermath of losing a baby, while exploring grief in real time and the difficult path toward healing.</p> <p>This is not a podcast about quick fixes or perfect healing. It’s about real grief, mental health, resilience, and what it truly looks like to survive loss—and slowly rebuild a life that will never be the same.</p> <p>If you’re navigating grief, coping with trauma, or searching for hope after loss, this podcast offers honesty, connection, and a reminder that you are not alone.</p>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
3/5/2026
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Recent Episodes

April 20, 2026
Versa (Disney+) Review | A Powerful Story of Child Loss, Grief & Healing with My Wife Anne
In this special episode, I’m joined for the first time by my wife Anne as we dive into a full review and discussion of the animated short film “Versa,” streaming on Disney+. We break down the story, animation style, themes, and emotional impact while sharing our honest reactions and different perspectives throughout the film. This episode blends first-time guest energy with thoughtful conversation as we explore what makes “Versa” stand out as a short-form animated experience. Whether you’ve already seen it or are curious about watching it, this review offers insight, interpretation, and a fun back-and-forth dynamic between hosts.

April 1, 2026
“Mother’s Day After Loss: Navigating Grief and Finding Moments of Joy”
In this episode, we share the raw and unfiltered experience of the weeks following the memorial services for our son, Ryder. We discuss the heavy silence at home, navigating grief alongside everyday life, and the overwhelming emotions leading up to Mother’s Day. From struggles with returning to work, coping in therapy, to a necessary escape to Jamaica, we explore how grief and small moments of joy can coexist. This episode is for parents, families, and anyone processing loss, offering a candid look at surviving, healing, and finding space for life after tragedy.

March 25, 2026
“Remembering Ryder: A Raw Reflection on Grief, Loss, and Family 7 Years Later”
Episode 5 is out, and it’s one of the most personal yet. This week, I reflect on Ryder’s 7th birthday and the ways loss continues to shape our family—Chandler, Marek, Camden—and our own journey as parents. It’s raw, unfiltered, and honest. I talk about the milestones that never happened, moments of grief, and even glimpses of magic that remind us he’s still here in our hearts. If you’ve experienced child loss, infertility, or the quiet grief of missed milestones, this episode is for you.
7 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is What Happens Next: Stories of Grief and Loss | Ryder’s Story?
<p>This podcast explores life’s most unexpected and life-altering moments—grief, trauma, loss, and the long journey of healing after everything changes.</p> <p>From devastating diagnoses to unimaginable loss, these are the moments that don’t just interrupt your life—they redefine it. Through raw personal storytelling and honest conversations, we dive into what happens next: how we cope with grief, navigate trauma, rebuild identity, and find a way forward after loss.</p> <p>Season One focuses on the loss of our son, Ryder, during a full-term pregnancy—a sudden and heartbreaking experience of child loss and stillbirth. This season shares the shock, heartbreak, and emotional aftermath of losing a baby, while exploring grief in real time and the difficult path toward healing.</p> <p>This is not a podcast about quick fixes or perfect healing. It’s about real grief, mental health, resilience, and what it truly looks like to survive loss—and slowly rebuild a life that will never be the same.</p> <p>If you’re navigating grief, coping with trauma, or searching for hope after loss, this podcast offers honesty, connection, and a reminder that you are not alone.</p> - How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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