As I sat down with Amber, the compassionate host of The Grief Gang podcast, our conversation delved deep into the heart-wrenching yet transformative journey of grief. Amber's sudden loss of her mother and my own unexpected loss of my husband have shaped us in profound ways, leading us to create spaces of support and community for others navigating similar paths.

Grief, as we both know too well, is not a journey we choose, but rather one that chooses us. It's a raw and tender experience that can shape the course of our lives. In my case, it meant suddenly becoming a solo parent while managing a flower farm and embarking on a podcasting journey. For Amber, it led her to create The Grief Gang, a beacon of light for those walking the shadowed path of loss.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation is the importance of finding support and community in navigating grief. The Grief Gang, through its podcast, mentoring, and support groups, provides a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, combat feelings of isolation, and find solace in shared connections.

Practicality and adaptability are also crucial in moving forward after loss. Keeping calm and carrying on, as we discussed, is not about avoiding grief, but about finding ways to be present for others while still taking care of ourselves. It's about recognizing that grief is a highly strung and alert state, and that safe places are needed to let go and process emotions.

One of the most profound aspects of our conversation was the realization that helping others can be a healing and empowering way to process grief. By creating safe spaces and resources for people to share their grief experiences, we not only support others but also find a sense of purpose and healing in our own journeys.

In the end, grief is a unique and personal journey that takes time to recalibrate and find a new normal. It's about finding safe spaces, like The Grief Gang, where we can share our stories, support one another, and find solace in the shared experience of loss. And it's about supporting one another with empathy, humility, and a willingness to learn and do better.

As I reflect on our conversation, I am reminded of the power of community, of finding strength in shared experiences, and of the transformative nature of grief. It's not an easy path to walk, but with the right support and the courage to share our stories, we can navigate the journey of grief with grace and resilience.