Breathing Wind
Breathing Wind is a podcast about grief and loss and how we journey with these lifelong companions. Naila Francis, grief coach, writer and former journalist and Sarah Davis, podcast consultant, speaker and writer, are cohosts. We offer warm, honest and insightful conversations for the introspective at heart. Launched in 2019 as a personal grief project, the podcast struck a chord with listeners looking for a space to feel less alone in their grief. Quickly, a dedicated community grew around the candid and compelling conversations with others who knew grief just as intimately and those who offered guidance for navigating this universal...
Sat, March 15, 2025
"Doors To Grief" Ep. 3: An Artist's Invitation
“What first started as a necessity of what I was going through, really evolved into this larger calling and feeling like, Why stop here? There’s so much to uncover.” ~ Brianna Hernández Hi! Guest host Julia Mark here. In this third (and final!) installment of the Doors to Grief miniseries, we’ll hear from the artist, curator, educator, and death doula Brianna Hernández. It was a joy to talk with Brianna about her journey, and what motivated her to create art around grief and dying. While our society often frames death in a dreary light, Brianna’s installations are vibrant, thought-provoking, and deeply intentional. Through her many roles, she encourages people to ask questions about death and dying, reminding us of the agency we have in planning for life’s inevitable close. During this episode, I ask Brianna specifically about two of her installations. You can view photos of those exhibits here: * Útiles Curativos (Brianna’s exhibit about caregiving) * Aquí Descansamos (Brianna’s exhibit about alternate memorials/green burial) I hope you enjoy learning about the creative doors to grief that Brianna Hernández has opened through her work! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Android Devices | RSS About Brianna Hern ández Brianna L. Hernández (b. 1991) is a Chicana artist, curator, educator, and death doula guided by socially engaged practices. In the studio, she creates multi-media installations focused on end-of-life care, grief, and mourning rituals based on lived experience, cultural research, and collaborations with peers. In developing as an artist Brianna credits her late mother, Sylvia D. Hernández, as her most significant mentor and inspiration for the creativity, resilience, and compassion she demonstrated throughout her life. Hernández has participated in residencies at MacDowell, The Watermill Center, Santa Fe Art Institute, The Constance Saltonstall Foundation for the Arts, SPACES, and Farwell House. She proudly serves as Director of Curation and Board Secretary of Ma’s House & BIPOC Art Studio on the Shinnecock Indian Reservation. Additionally, she is the Board Treasurer at <a target="_blank" href="ht
S5 E105 · Thu, February 27, 2025
"Doors To Grief" Ep. 2: Breathwork
“Your body already knows how to ride the waves. I think we’ve gotten so used to only trusting our minds and not trusting our bodies to do what’s good for them, and I think our body has a deep knowing.” ~ Erin Collins Hi! Guest host Julia Mark here. In this second episode of the Doors to Grief miniseries, we hear from the insightful Erin Collins about her journey to becoming a breathwork guide and sound healer. Erin Collins offers both a scientific and spiritual perspective on how breathwork can be used as a tool for releasing stuck emotions. Our personal stories about navigating grief are woven throughout. Whether you’re a breathwork enthusiast or wondering (like Erin’s grandfather), “Now, why would you need to teach someone how to breathe??” I hope this episode opens new doors for you. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Android Devices | RSS About Erin Collins Erin is a breathwork meditation guide on Vashon Island near Seattle, WA. Through years of training in mental health and certification as a breathwork guide, Erin comes alongside you to provide loving support as you meditate deeply through conscious connected breathwork. Her presence is gentle and supportive, guiding you to self-knowledge, empowerment, and deep healing. www.ResonanceVashon.com Mentioned in this episode (and related links) * “ What Is Breathwork ?” (via the Cleveland Clinic) * A style of breathwork called Transformational Breathing * Radical Acceptance as described in Dialectical Behavior Therapy * Article discussing how animals release energy after truama * The Grieving Body (interview with author Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor) * Research on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sciencedirect.c
S5 E104 · Tue, February 11, 2025
"Doors To Grief" Ep. 1: Asteroid City
“In this movie you've got this guy who's, by all accounts, trying really hard to just keep everything together...That ends up being a much more potent thing for communicating this message than something that's more directly trying to address grief.” - Andrew Clinnin Hi, Julia Mark here. I'm honored to share the first installment of my Breathing Wind miniseries called “Doors to Grief.” In this episode, I talk with Andrew Clinnin about how Asteroid City —a visually playful Wes Anderson film—became an unexpected lens for understanding his experience as a young widower. I know today’s guest, Andrew Clinnin through the online grief group he formed via The Dinner Party . Andrew he has created a wonderful space for people in their 20s and 30s who have experienced partner loss. It was a privilege to learn more about his unique journey. Whether you’ve seen the film or not, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how stories—both on-screen and in our own lives—shape the way we grieve and grow. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Android Devices | RSS About Andrew Clinnin: Andrew Clinnin lives in San Francisco, trying to survive outside his natural midwestern habitat. He’s most often spotted mumbling to himself behind his work computer, camera, or sewing machine. Andrew’s wife Ellen was a stage actor and playwright who died in 2022 after two COVID-cursed years with gastric cancer. But she doesn’t want us to remember her by that last bit. Mentioned in this episode: * Asteroid City * Sarah’s conversation with the co-founder of The Dinner Party, Lennon Flowers on Apple Podcasts and Spotify (Season 1, Episode 13) * doesthedogdie.com : a database of categorized content warnings for movies, television shows, books, video games and more! Like this episode? Show it some love. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite p
S5 E103 · Mon, January 27, 2025
A Farewell and a Hello
“We need to stay open to this very natural response to how we experience the big losses changes in our lives. And if we can do that — it doesn’t come at once, it doesn’t come in big ahas — but there there is transformation, and there’s healing and wisdom and creative inspiration and new perspectives. There’s so much that we have access to that we may never be moved by or never encounter if we avoid or shut down our grief.” ~ Naila Francis In this farewell episode, Sarah and Naila revisit the emotionally rich journey of their podcast, celebrating the support and community that has been built. They share poignant clips from past episodes, including conversations with guests like Benjamin Gunning, Lennon Flowers, and Naila Francis, reflecting on themes of grief, resilience, and creativity. As they pass the torch to new potential host Julia Mark, they discuss their future creative endeavors and express deep gratitude to their listeners. The episode emphasizes the importance of allowing grief to be a shared, evolving conversation. Show notes Mentioned in this episode: Episode 2: Never Alone with Benjamin Gunning Episode 13: The Space to Be Messy with Lennon Flowers Naila’s first appearance on the podcast , interviewed by Deborah Szeto Episode 77: Honoring the Full Range of Grief with Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer Episode 82: Surfer Dan Fischer is Shaping an Active Grief Memorial through One Last Wave Project Episode 84: Love is the Mother of Grief with Nnenna Freelon Episode 68: The Possibility of Pleasure with Oceana Sawyer Season 2 Trailer: What is Healing? Season 3 Trailer: What is Joy? Throwing the Bones with Dr. JoAnne Dodgson This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E102 · Tue, October 08, 2024
Grief as a practice
“I've been very present to the fact that there have been these huge, huge joys. But every time I meet a huge joy, it just drops me deeper into the grief, which is part of what I always say about grief. The more you open yourself to the joy, the more you open yourself to the grief and vice versa. So that kind of feels like where my journey has been this summer.” ~ Naila Francis In this episode, inspired by our conversation with grief activist, author and podcast host Lisa Keefauver, we reflect on where our journeys have taken us these last few months, including the grief we’re both living with. As we invite you into these personal experiences, we share the ways grief continues to surprise and teach us — and how challenging it can be to lean into those lessons that come ‘round again and again. Given all the wisdom Lisa shared with us from her new book, “Grief is A Sneaky B***h” (also the title of her podcast) in the previous episode, we also explore some of the threads that most resonated with us, especially the value of seeking support, which can be tricky to do when you’re the one often giving it. We’re so grateful for Lisa’s work challenging conventional narratives around grief. And we invite you to consider the narratives you hold around loss, how they might be impacting you and how you care for yourself and others in times of grief. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E101 · Tue, September 24, 2024
Creating a new narrative for grief
“So if our narrative understood that it's emotional and cognitive and physical and spiritual and relational, how might we attend to ourselves differently? How might we attend to other people in our lives differently? How, if we believed it as a culture, would we institute policies and systems that attended to grief differently?” - Lisa Keefauver In this episode, we talk with Lisa Keefauver, grief activist, author and podcast host of “Grief is a Sneaky B***h,” about grief as a multidimensional experience that encompasses more than death and more than our emotions. With compelling insight, compassionate warmth, the truth of her own lived experience and her background as a narrative therapist, Lisa shines a light on some of the stories, beliefs and habits that cause us more suffering as we grieve — while also offering tips and suggestions to help soften grief’s hard edges. She talks about the vulnerability and bravery of inviting in support and candidly shares her own struggles with receiving care. In fact, Lisa is nothing but candid throughout this entire episode, as she reflects on grieving and being grateful for her late husband Eric, her journey with breast cancer and what grief has taught her about living a fuller, richer life. You’ll probably want to listen with a journal or come back to this episode again, as, with fall right around the corner, it feels like a timely roadmap to help us all navigate this human experience with more grace for ourselves. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E100 · Tue, April 02, 2024
Celebrating 100 Episodes
“As a death midwife, one of the things many of us do is work on legacy projects with people who are dying and their loved ones, and yet sometimes I think it's really not up to us to know what our legacy is. I can hope it will be this particular thing, but at the end of the day, the people we leave behind are the ones really making the meaning and interpreting our lives for us.” ~Naila Francis Welcome to our celebratory 100th episode of the Breathing Wind Podcast, where we reflect on some of the recurring themes around grief that have shaped the podcast since it began. We revisit key moments in conversations with a handful of guests that touch on navigating life transitions with openness, the intersection of grief and joy and what it means to leave behind a legacy. As we share from our own grief journeys, we note how challenging it can be to embody emotional self-awareness, the surprising parts of ourselves that show up in the midst of profound change, and whether it’s truly possible to know the impact we leave behind. We do know, however, that this podcast has created a virtual community, and we remain grateful for you, listeners, as well as the growth we’ve experienced, and the future of our shared journey. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E97 · Tue, March 19, 2024
Embracing creativity, change and joy in grief
“I think some of the clearest decisions I've ever made have come in the aftermath of grief.” ~Naila Francis In this episode, we look back on our enchanting and insightful conversation with Mara June, an educator, facilitator, community weaver, writer, caregiver, death doula and community herbalist. Reflecting on her deep belief in the creative energy inherent in grieving, we discuss grief’s transformative power in our lives and some of the ways we’ve been creatively called to change how we show up in the world. For Sarah, that included re-evaluating her career and the work she was doing, and for Naila, transformation came in waves affecting many areas of her life. As we’ve done across several episodes, we circle back to the presence of joy as part of grief and in particular how grief opens us up to feel more alive by giving us access to the full range of our emotions. We also acknowledge, with gratitude to Mara for naming this, numbness as part of grieving, and explore the idea of bringing tenderness and beauty to death, even in challenging circumstances, as Naila was able to do at her dad’s deathbed, and as Sarah has continued to do by nurturing a connection that was meaningful to her own father. We hope this conversation invites you to make a little more room for your grief and to be gentle with all the changes your journey may be calling you to. As always, we’d love to hear what moved or resonated with you, and we thank you for allowing us to be companions on your journey. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E97 · Tue, March 05, 2024
Rolling Out The Welcome Mat for Grief
"In allowing ourselves to feel our grief, or to feel present with whatever is coming up for us — not excluding our joy — that's actually helping us to feel more deeply in all of these areas in our life. And I think that is part of the enchantment piece for me...When we feel more deeply, then we can also feel enchantment and wonder and awe and all of these other things as well." ~ Mara June In this episode, death doula, community herbalist, educator and writer Mara June invites us to consider the ways grief calls us to change who we are and how we move in the world. Framing this “undoing” as liberating, they share grief’s potential to make us magicians, opening us up to mystery and wonder and bringing us more alive. We also talk about their own journey with grief and loss, how they came to community death care, and how we can bring moments of beauty and tenderness to the end of life. Noting that we have never grieved alone, Mara speaks to the wise and nourishing role of plants in tending our grief, introducing us to some of their favorites. (Hint: if you’re not into chamomile, you will be after listening!). And of course, we couldn’t leave this conversation without talking about their spells and their deeply affirming memes and social media posts, which you’ll definitely want to check out for yourself. We learned so much in this conversation and also shared some sweet moments with Mara when they turned the mic on us. May it inspire you, too, on your shapeshifting journey through grief. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E97 · Tue, February 20, 2024
A Welcome Space for Grief
In this episode, inspired by our powerful conversation with communal grief tender and song circle leader, Alexandra “Ahlay” Blakeley, we discuss our own experiences with song circles and how they impacted us — as well our thoughts on community grief spaces in general, and how grief support is so much broader than the stereotypical basement circle for story sharing that people are used to. We share our “safe” places to cry and reflect on the varied responses we receive to working in the grief space — Naila with her workshops and classes and Sarah when she tells people she co-hosts a podcast about grief. Our dads also make an appearance when we start talking about what our beloveds leave behind, and what we do with their “stuff.” And there’s that prophetic dream thread that we just couldn’t ignore after Ahlay shared two incredibly vivid dreams with us in our conversation with her. Have you ever had a dream that’s informed your path? We’d love to hear it or anything else that strikes a resonant note with you from our time together. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E94 · Tue, February 06, 2024
Singing Together to Open Our Hearts
“I believe that community singing, which I define as, when a group of folks come together and they sing songs together that are easy enough lyrically and easy enough melodically to be taught in the moment. And then we sing these songs, which I personally call spells or prayers together that are amplified and help put us in some sort of altered state through the process of singing these songs, it's a technology for belonging. It's a technology for metabolizing grief.” ~ Alexandra Blakely (AKA ahlay) From the moment she dropped into our opening invitation to a deep breath, with an admitted mix of tension in her body and openness in her heart, artist, singer-songwriter, communal grief tender and community organizer Alexandra "Ahlay" Blakely took us on an unforgettable journey. In this profound and inspiring conversation, we touch on the nuances and complexities of navigating this tumultuous time in the world and how songs can help us move our grief through our bodies in a way the mind can’t and doesn’t have to understand. In reframing communal singing as our inherent birthright, she speaks to the shame many of us have around our singing voices, shares the sense of belonging found in song circles and how songs can be spells casting an impact far beyond immediate time and place. In sharing her journey from backup pop singer to activist to ritual and community song circle facilitator, Ahlay proves a compelling storyteller — you won’t want to miss the dream she shares about whales, among so many other moments in this episode, including when she and Naila discover their profound affinity for whales has more in common than they could have imagined. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E95 · Tue, January 23, 2024
Guided by Grief
“When I was on the Camino, there was this moment when I was spreading [my dad’s] ashes and just talking to him and I realized that was why I was there, that he wanted me there. And I felt so connected to him, and at that time I remember thinking, ‘This is so simple. I can turn off everything and go out for a walk in the woods and be connected with my dad.’” ~ Sarah Davis In this episode, recorded during the holiday season, we debrief our Christmases: how we spent them, how our grief showed up and how we coped, or didn’t. Reflecting on our conversation with author and plant ecologist Susan Tweit, who still finds so many beautiful ways to be with her late husband Richard, we recall instances of connection with our own dads — and in a very candid moment, reveal some of the moments along our fathers’ end-of-life journeys, exploring some of our regrets and our denial. Again drawing from Susan’s wisdom and devoted mindfulness practice, we also look at the role of love and compassion in our lives, and Sarah shares an especially helpful technique that helps her to meet her mom from that place when she gets overwhelmed or starts to feel intense emotion around her caregiving. Perhaps not surprising, there’s some meandering, as we also talk about aging, the healthcare system and our wishes for more collective and communal death care. But mostly there’s a lot of heart and tender honesty in this episode. We hope you’ll bring your heart to listening and invite you, as always, to share what resonated or what you’ll be carrying forward into your own grief journey. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E94 · Tue, January 09, 2024
Living and Dying with Love and Compassion with Susan J. Tweit
“If we have the intention to live with love and compassion, we can handle anything. We are amazing beings, we humans. We can also really screw up badly, but if we have the intention to live with love and compassion, it changes what we do and how we are.” ~ Susan J. Tweit In her memoir, Bless the Birds: Living with Love in a Time of Dying , Susan J. Tweit, an award-winning writer and plant ecologist, recounts her journey accompanying her husband toward the end of his life, following a diagnosis with brain cancer. We explore what it was like for her to navigate those devastatingly bittersweet last two years of his life, which included a 4,000-mile honeymoon road trip they’d long put off and the death of Susan’s mom to Alzheimer’s. But as Susan shares her experiences of grief and death with us, what shines through is not so much the challenges and pain of her journey — though she is candid about both, especially having been a caregiver — but her insistence on fully living during those years. She and her husband Richard were committed to filling their days with love, compassion, beauty, wonder and gratitude for each other. As she speaks to life after Richard, Susan reflects on how she still carries him with her, what it’s been like to reclaim her independence and what we can all learn from facing death with less fear. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E93 · Tue, December 19, 2023
Blue Lights
“Our Christmas lights now are all blue since Ron left. I want to honor the day and the spirit of it, but the bright, shining twinkle lights and jingle bells don't speak to my heart. When the blue lights are turned on, the room is bathed with a lovely blue, which creates exactly the right atmosphere to sink into the holy yet joyful season.” ~Marge Sexton In this holiday compilation episode, we offer a glimpse of others’ experiences of the holidays after loss. Sarah shares her journey with grief during the holiday season, including embracing new traditions. Naila shares a poem she wrote about blue Christmas lights and the beauty of grief. Three listeners — Marge Sexton, Righteous Jolly, and Roseanne Corcoran — also share their unique experiences of processing grief over the holidays and their coping mechanisms, including celebrating the memory of loved ones, channeling emotions through art, and connecting with nature. Last, but not least, writer and plant biologist Susan Tweit shares a glimpse of how she processes her grief (and hint, it’s a preview of our upcoming episode :)). To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E92 · Tue, December 05, 2023
Grief as a Transformational Journey
"If you're willing to open to the journey and if you're willing to really allow yourself to feel your grief and have practices to engage it, it does shape-shift over time. It does become softer. It does become something that you can carry maybe with a little more...lightness and grace." ~Naila Francis In this episode, we delve into varied facets of grief and loss, including the transformative potential that grief holds. Reflecting on our conversation with poet, dream yogi and grief guide, Ning Tendo, from the last episode, we explore our own relationship with dreams and dreaming and some of the images that have both troubled and soothed us in our grief. Given Ning’s intentionality caring for her broken heart after the death of her mom, we share the containers that have helped us make room for our grief, as well as the practices that deepen care and compassion for ourselves. (Jacuzzi time and flower arranging, anyone?) We also touch upon an often-avoided subject in grief — anger — as we share our unique perceptions, challenges and strategies for navigating all that grief, an ever-unpredictable guest, invites. Sarah vulnerably shares what’s been shifting in her journey both as a caregiver to her mom and a grieving daughter while we both underline the importance of allowing ourselves to experience grief fully in order for healing and transformation to take place. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E90 · Tue, November 21, 2023
Dreaming into Grief and Love
“Just having that dream visit, even just one visit, can nourish somebody and really give them the courage to go into their grief because it's not enough to have those dreams. It doesn't negate the pain of their physical absence. You still need to do the hard work. You still need to go into your grief and really unwind all of those stories and all of the different things that are present, but being able to connect with them in that way nourishes you. You don't feel so hopeless anymore.” - Ning Tendo In this week’s episode, we speak with guest Ning Tendo, a published poet, spiritual healer, dream yogi, and grief guide. Ning shares her profound insights into the transformative power of grief and how it can reveal unexplored aspects of ourselves. She discusses her unique approach to navigating grief through exploring dreams, offering practical advice on how to connect with the essence of lost loved ones. Ning also shares her rich cultural background and traditions around grief from Cameroon and contrasts them with her experiences in America. Overall, Ning provides a fresh perspective on embracing grief as a pathway to personal growth, self-awareness, and an expanded understanding of life relationships. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E90 · Tue, November 07, 2023
Spaces of Witness and Belonging
“I think runners, by nature, have this environment of excitement and energy and support just built into a race. It doesn't matter how fast you're running. You're just all together and you're all part of this big happy bubble of energy. It's always a feeling of belonging.” — Sarah Davis In this week’s episode, we reflect on our conversation with hip-hop artist, educator, facilitator and activist Dwight Dunston. His faithfulness in honoring his grief moved us both, as well as his openness to feeling joy, gratitude and reverence for life alongside, and in the midst of, profound sorrow. We were especially inspired by his musings on the beauty of being witnessed in community, which prompted us to share the ways we had recently experienced such a gift in our own lives — Naila at a community grief ritual and Sarah while running a half-marathon. Dwight’s sharing about his dad modeling for him at a young age that it was OK to grieve invited us to consider our own models of grief, while his commitment to ritualizing his grief made us think of how we meet the death anniversaries of our dads — and whether it’s possible to reclaim those milestones in more meaningful ways. With the shift in seasons and the year end drawing close, we also pondered the changes we are being called to in our lives — a question we would love you to consider, as well. As always, we hope you find this conversation nourishing to your own journey and that it maybe helps you hold your grief with more compassion, tenderness and care, especially as we enter the holiday season. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S5 E89 · Tue, October 24, 2023
Tenderness and Reverence in Grief and Joy
“I have never been more practiced in honoring my grief, and I truly have never had more gratitude and joy and reverence for life…When you really feel into grief, my experience is you’re able to love and feel a part of the life force that moves through all living things.” ~ Dwight Dunston In our season 5 opener, artist, educator and activist Dwight Dunston reflects on his first big love and loss, the death of his grandmother Mamie Donald, when he was 10. He shares how that grief continues to shape how he shows up in the world — striving always toward open-heartedness and care even as he acknowledges the more natural instinct to be guarded and self-protective. As he reflects on some of the ways he stays connected to his loved ones who have died, especially his dad, Dwight invites us to consider how we might deepen our relationships to those who’ve gone before us. And the tenderness he brings toward his grief, choosing to be soft and kind to himself in his hurt and wounded places, is a graceful reminder of how to make more space for our difficult emotions. Dwight brings a palpable reverence for being alive and the range of experiences and emotions that opens up for us to our conversation. As a multidimensional artist, he also talks about creativity as a path to honoring and telling his truth. We’re so excited for you to dive into this conversation and hope it offers you moments of witnessing and perspective, which, as Dwight so beautifully shares, are among the gifts of grieving in community. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Bonus · Tue, September 12, 2023
Giving Ourselves Grace
In this bonus episode, we reflect on our conversation with Dan Fischer of One Last Wave, an amazing project that invites grievers to memorialize their loved ones by having their names etched on a surfboard that Dan takes out to sea. This episode highlights the kind of exclusive content we share on Patreon. It also covers so much ground, as we muse on the vulnerability of men in grief, how time in nature opens us to feel our grief and to more fully inhabit our wildness, and what grief has taught us about self-care. Of course, you also get a peek at the laughter and silliness we often share that don’t make it into our regular episodes. We hope you enjoy this extra dose of warmth, humor and wisdom as we gear up to bring you our new season soon. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Bonus · Thu, August 24, 2023
Episode Swap
“Having an established creative practice helped me in ways I would have never known, and I think it’s the greatest gift my younger self gave me now.” ~ Rosemmery Wahtola Trommer This month, we’re offering you a feed swap. This is the second episode we’re swapping. For the first episode in this swap, check out Episode Swap! Emerging Form Discusses Creativity in Times of Trauma . Emerging Form, co-hosted by poet Rosemmery Wahtola Trommer and journalist Christie Aschwanden, is a podcast about creative process. These two friends cover everything from the business of creativity, to cultivating openness and pleasure, to meeting failure as part of the process. Whether they’re talking between themselves or inviting other creatives to share some of their journey, their conversations are always encouraging and insightful. This episode, Checking in One Year Later, was recorded one year after Rosemerry and Christie publicly shared their losses on the podcast for the first time. It was shortly after Rosemerry’s son died and after Christie’s father had suffered a stroke. In this episode, they cover the range of emotions one can feel in a tumultuous year– Christie speaks of uncertainty after her father had a stroke, and Rosemerry discusses how having an established writing practice helped her with her grief. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Bonus · Thu, August 10, 2023
Episode swap
“Grief cracks you open. It makes us vulnerable… I feel vulnerable.” ~ Christie Aschwanden “A creative practice prepared me for grief.” ~ Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer This month, we’re offering you a feed swap. Emerging Form, co-hosted by poet Rosemmery Wahtola Trommer and journalist Christie Aschwanden, is a podcast about creative process. These two friends cover everything from the business of creativity, to cultivating openness and pleasure, to meeting failure as part of the process. Whether they’re talking between themselves or inviting other creatives to share some of their journey, their conversations are always encouraging and insightful. In this episode from Emerging Form that we’re sharing with you, Rosemerry and Christie sit down with each other mere weeks after Rosemerry’s son, Finn, has died and Christie’s father has suffered a stroke. They explore how profound loss has impacted their relationship to creativity, what they’re noticing in their impulses to write or not write and how their tender, cracked open hearts are taking in what each moment has to offer them. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S4 E85 · Tue, August 01, 2023
Growing a New Heart
“[Grief] breaks us open, which we may not expect. There's some allowing that has to happen. I'm going to allow this to break me open, to grow a new heart, to connect with people in a more meaningful way, to live a life that's more authentic. I think the breaking open, while it can be hard and scary, speaks to grief as a generative force and the ways it can deepen and enrich your life.” - Naila Francis In this week’s episode, our season finale, we reflect on our conversation with Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon. We look at a moment that landed very differently for each of us during that conversation, sharing our takes on why we thought her candid retelling of her husband’s final days should and shouldn’t have been cut. We have fun recalling some of the signs our dads send us to let us know they’re near, including the songs that bring them closer to us — don’t worry, we spare you the actual singing of them. And appreciating Nnenna’s affirmation of each griever’s unique experience, no matter her own wisdom from walking the path, we talk about what was most helpful to us in the immediate aftermath of our losses. We also unwrap what her phrase “Anger doesn’t store well” means to both of us and the place anger has in the spectrum of grief. And given that this is our season finale, we do look back on the podcast’s evolution and the conversations that have brought greater depth to the season. We hope you agree, and that as usual, you find room for your own story as you listen in. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S4 E84 · Sat, July 15, 2023
Love is the Mother of Grief
“It's healthy, I believe, to touch these places. I don't know how you can touch your love place without touching your grief place. They're both there. They're layered on top of each other and your joy place. They're all there, and when we shut down, we shut down all the good stuff, too.” ~Nnenna Freelon In this week’s episode, Grammy-nominated jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon takes us on a journey through her many realms of grief. As compelling a storyteller as she is a performer, Nnenna candidly reflects on her ongoing evolution as a griever since the deaths of her beloved husband Phil and sister Debbie. She shares how she has turned to creativity, including her music, not only as a grief practice but as a way to stay connected to Phil, why she’s mindful of the words she uses when talking about grief and loss and how embracing grief as a teacher is transforming her dance with this ever-shifting experience. Deeply moving and thought-provoking, this conversation centers grief with so much reverence, wonder and vitality, we hope it inspires you as much as it did us — and invites you to consider what it might mean for you to fall back in love with life while honoring your broken heart. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S4 E83 · Tue, June 20, 2023
Intuitive Grief
"Grief, for me, has been about following intuition. It's been about following the feelings. I don’t know what they're saying to me. I wish I knew, but I kind of have given up trying to figure it out. And I'm just letting the grief coexist with me, and that's where we're at.” ~Sarah Davis In this week’s episode, we explore grief as it’s surfaced — or hasn’t — in the days leading up to Father’s Day and how challenging it can be to make space for the grief over one parent when caring for another. Inspired by our conversation with Dan Fischer of One Last Wave Project, we also talk about the creative energy in grief and how that can inspire us to connect to others in new ways or channel our experience into outlets that end up serving more than our own individual journeys. As we muse on our mutual love of the ocean, we bring our dads into the conversation, too — and learn some things we never knew about each other. And we reflect on the pets we’ve loved, the dogs and cats, and their moments of death and how we coped with our grief over these everyday companions. Join us for this conversation that’s equal parts lively and tender and always honest, and inspired us to also wonder, what would it be like if our dads had a podcast. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S4 E82 · Thu, June 08, 2023
Surfer Dan Fischer is Shaping an Active Grief Memorial through One Last Wave Project
"Something that I didn't have any sense of before...was happiness was up here and grief was down here, where it's really not. It's a universal human experience to lose. If we can recognize that we're all going through similar things and be able to share that, I think it's very healing." ~ Dan Fischer In this week’s episode, Dan Fischer reflects on his journey of grieving the deaths of his dad and his dog Rudy, his best friend of 15 years. He recalls how a moment of vulnerability unexpectedly created a community of grievers willing to be vulnerable, too, as they find comfort and healing in connection — and in sharing stories of their loved ones who have died with Fischer, who writes their names on specially shaped surfboards he takes out into the ocean to honor their memories. Fischer’s One Last Wave Project is not only a way for him to celebrate his dad and their love of adventure, it also reminds him of the universality of grief and loss, the beauty of intentionally connecting to our loved ones, even when it hurts, and the power of openly admitting when we’re not OK. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Bonus · Sun, May 14, 2023
Mother’s Day Grief
“I think with any person's life, there's a lot of joy. There's a lot of beauty, there's a lot of love and hope, but there's also a lot of grief and tragedy and, and sorrow.” ~ Christina Vo In this week’s episode, Sarah reflects on many of the conversations she had in Season 1, as well as a few from Seasons 2-3, contributed by guests who reflect on their grief over the death of their moms. As expected with such a significant loss, the grief is layered — touching on identity, memory, connection and the shifting ways we relate to ourselves and our loved one who is no longer with us. Naila and Sarah discuss the nuances in these episodes, as well as the common threads that connect us in our grief and our universal longing for our experiences to be honored and validated. To find out more about this episode, listen to the episodes referenced, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S4 E80 · Tue, May 02, 2023
The Silence and Soul Work of Grief
“Some people think solitude and loneliness are the same thing, but to me solitude is almost this soulful, nourishing kind of quality that I need, [that] we need, and especially when we're grieving.” — Naila Francis In this episode, we reflect on our earlier conversation with Sarah Chaves . We explore why silence and solitude are essential for both of us on our grief journeys and reflect on being the grief-go-to-girl in many of our relationships and how that can be both challenging and gratifying. Naila offers some of the ways she shows up for her grieving friends but we also talk about the necessity of having boundaries when we don't have the capacity to support others. And for "This is Us" fans, we share our thoughts on how the series captured grief. As usual, our conversation is punctuated by laughter and playfulness, but as we look back to past episodes where guests have shared the experience of reaching the age that their parent died, we touch into a tender and candid moment around the milestones we won't share with our dads. We hope you’ll reflect along with us. Visit Breathing Wind’s Instagram to share what these questions inspire in you. To find out more about this episode, other resources mentioned, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S4 E79 · Tue, April 18, 2023
Grief, An Illogical and Ever Present Companion with Sarah Chaves
“Grief is ever present. It's not like this little cloud that hangs above my head. That's not it. It's the fact that it is a lens through which I view the world and all my relationships constantly. I cannot take off that lens.” ~ Sarah Chaves In this week’s episode, author Sarah Chaves brings us a rich and stirringly honest conversation about grieving as a mom, daughter and writer who began crafting her story of loss right after her dad died. She walks us into a deeply cathartic moment on that writing journey, opens up about how grief has affected the dynamics in her family relationships and how she both welcomes and feels burdened by playing the role of gatherer and tender. Sarah also unapologetically speaks to the presence of anger in her life, which came as a big surprise after her son was born. We hope you’ll reflect along with us. Visit Breathing Wind’s Instagram to share what these questions inspire in you. To find out more about this episode, other resources mentioned, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S4 E78 · Tue, April 04, 2023
Leaning into Love is Leaning into Grief
“Leaning into love is leaning into grief,” — Sarah Davis In this week’s episode, co-hosts Naila and Sarah muse on our conversation with poet Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer and all she gifted us with her openness and generosity. Inspired by how she’s being guided by her word of the year — “hello” — we share our own words for 2023. We also talk about our willingness, and protectiveness, when it comes to publicly inviting others into our own grief journeys. As we continue to encourage listening to these conversations for threads of our own stories and truths, we dive into the questions our time with Rosemerry sparked in us. This led to some truly candid moments about caregiving, processing grief, reconciling relationships after death and supporting grievers. We hope you’ll reflect along with us. Visit Breathing Wind’s Instagram to share what these questions inspire in you. To find out more about this episode, other resources mentioned, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S4 E77 · Tue, March 21, 2023
Honoring the Full Range of Grief
“I really trust life itself to rise up and help me meet the things that I cannot control. I trust love to show up and help me meet the things that I cannot control.” ~ Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer In this week’s episode, Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer cries and laughs her way through an expansive and nourishing conversation about grief, creativity and love. We talk with her about poetry as a practice for meeting each moment, her unfolding journey through devastating loss and where those experiences of creativity and grief intersect. She also shares how she’s been carried by an immensity of love since the death of her son Finn, in the same year that her father died, and how grief has deepened her trust in that love while inviting her, over and over again, to say yes to the world. To find out more about this episode, other resources mentioned, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Want more time with us? Join our Patreon . This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Trailer · Tue, March 07, 2023
Our Old Friend, Grief: Season 4 Trailer
“[Grief is] really almost like a relationship. It's not, ‘Here's this chapter of my life, here's this season of my life. Here's this thing I have to focus on now or get through now;’ [Instead] it's this enduring relationship that you're always in. And, it changes over time, just like the real relationships in our life change over time and things come in and out and circumstances shape them in different ways.We're always carrying our grief and as we go through our life, our relationship is going to change, but it's always going to be there.” — Naila Francis This is a conversation on our old friend, grief, our five questions about grief, and more. To find out more about this episode, other resources mentioned, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E75 · Sat, December 17, 2022
Evolving Joy
Welcome to the Breathing Wind Season 3 finale. In this season, we explored joy in context of grief. In other words, how does joy show up for us in the wild? How is joy an act of resilience? What if joy is unexpected? How do we embody joy? This episode is a collection of some of our favorite moments from the season. If any of these excerpts sound particularly resonate, be sure to check out the entire episode, found on breathingwind.com . Links to individual episodes can be found in the show notes . Selected moments include: [1:33] Bloopers [3:37] Our definitions of joy at the beginning of the season [6:42] Commentary: how Sarah's definition evolved [7:32] Excerpt from Episode 52, The Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage, with Diane Wyzga and Sarah Davis [11:54] Excerpt from Episode 57, Compassion for Ourselves and Others: A Gateway to Emotional Freedom with Wendy Rolón and Duncan Cheung [16:13] Excerpt from Episode 66, The Willingness to be Open, with Dara Kosberg and Vinny Ferraro [19:03] Excerpt from Episode 60, Joy and Grief Touch the Same Part of the Heart with Dara Kosberg, Erin Lim and Angela Tabora [22:20] Excerpt from Episode 65, Resilience is an Act of Care with Naila Francis and Sarah Davis [26:55] Excerpt from Episode 63, The Body is Everything: Making a Home for Grief and Joy, with Naila Francis and Simone Baker [29:56] Excerpt from Episode 72, The Possibility of Pleasure Miniseries Finale, with Oceana Sawyer and Sarah Davis, which included commentary on Episodes 70 and 71. [30:48] Excerpt from Episode 70, The Portal Between Life and Death and Life, with Oceana Sawyer and Karine Bell [33:33] Excerpt from Episode 71, The Sensuality of Place and Grief, with Oceana Sawyer and Roshni Kavate To find out more about this episode, other resources mentioned, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E74 · Tue, December 06, 2022
The Holidays are in the Air
"While I never know what it's like to celebrate the holiday season with my aging mother, I've come to appreciate her presence in my life in a way that makes sense to those who savor Christmas, keeping their decorations up long into the new year. She's in my warm, salty tears that still flow at times. She's in the cold autumn fall. When I see the leaves begin to submit to the painting of the forest with radiant acceptance, she's really everywhere I go. I do not need a holiday to remind me of my grief." — Ken Breniman This episode is a departure from the season, but it's also something I felt was coming forward for the holidays that needed to be heard and expressed. In this episode, you’ll hear from Ken Breniman and Deborah Szeto, guest hosts from Season 2, Naila Francis, guest host from Season 3, Dr. Jason Ridler, guest from Season 3, Daisy from Season 1 and Sarah Davis, founder and producer. The prompt I gave everyone who you'll hear from in this episode was simple: A friend and past guest suggested she read from a letter she wrote to her mom this year, and it made me think about all the creative ways we express our grief in writing that can help others. Do you want to share a recording of you reading from an essay, poem, letter, or otherwise you wrote about this topic? To find out more about this episode, other resources mentioned, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E73 · Tue, November 29, 2022
Grief Doesn't Have a Timeline with Kendra Rinaldi
“There really is not a timeline. You do not know how long it may take. It's a journey and it's something you carry, not much different than love. I really think that, just like love doesn't have a timeline, why would grief?” — Kendra Rinaldi In this week’s episode, Kendra Rinaldi , grief coach and podcast host of Grief, Gratitude & the Grey in Between , talks with producer/host Sarah Davis about the humanity our loved ones bring, her unique views on grief and death, how her healing came through facilitating grief conversations and some suggestions from her for the holidays. To find out more about this episode, other resources mentioned, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E72 · Tue, November 22, 2022
The Possibility of Pleasure
"Grabbing those moments and claiming them for yourself so that you have a bit of goodness and nourishment to support you as you go on the sometimes really hard road of grieving…that’s really important.” —Oceana Sawyer In this week’s episode, Oceana Sawyer speaks with producer, Sarah Davis, about the themes that surfaced and shared some of our favorite moments from her miniseries. The Possibility of Pleasure miniseries hosted by Oceana Sawyer, explores grief through the senses, which will consider how utilizing any six senses (taste, touch, sight, smell, hearing, imagination) can enhance the metabolization of grief allowing the process of grieving to cultivate wisdom and a greater appreciation of living. To find out more about this episode, Oceana's miniseries, and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E70 · Tue, November 15, 2022
The Sensuality of Place and Grief with Roshni Kavate
“There's just something about the air. If you live by the ocean, there's a saltiness in the air. You can smell the fruit every morning as you walk the streets, depending on if it's a market day or what's in season. So it really grounds you and places you in time, space, memory, where you are, who you're connected with, and what's happening.” — Roshni Kavate In this week’s episode, Roshni Kavate speaks with Oceana about how the sensuality of food-ways, family homes and locations can mix and mingle to create soothing balms for grieving. Roshni also does a beautiful job of describing the specific secondary losses that are unique to first and second generation immigrants or expatriates. The Possibility of Pleasure miniseries hosted by Oceana Sawyer, explores grief through the senses, which will consider how utilizing any six senses (taste, touch, sight, smell, hearing, imagination) can enhance the metabolization of grief allowing the process of grieving to cultivate wisdom and a greater appreciation of living. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E70 · Tue, November 01, 2022
The Portal Between Life and Death and Life with Karine Bell
“My grief is the one at the wheel.” — Karine bell In this episode, Karine Bell speaks of several significant life transformations for her — birth of her daughter, death of her mother and father. In each, she emphasizes the conditions she had to feel safe in her grief and the layers she experienced. The Possibility of Pleasure miniseries hosted by Oceana Sawyer, explores grief through the senses, which will consider how utilizing any six senses (taste, touch, sight, smell, hearing, imagination) can enhance the metabolization of grief allowing the process of grieving to cultivate wisdom and a greater appreciation of living. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E69 · Tue, October 18, 2022
Beyond the Ears: Music for the End of Life
“ We have to be very awake in a really deep, rooted way…And listening with not just our ears, but all of our senses really.” —Melanie DeMore, on singing for people at the end of their lives. This week’s episode features a conversation between Oceana Sawyer and Melanie DeMore, three-time Grammy nominated singer/composer, choral conductor, music director and vocal activist. Oceana and Melanie talk about her experience as a threshold singer, as well as how she was called to do this work with her unique gifts, and some of her thoughts on music at the end of life. The Possibility of Pleasure miniseries hosted by Oceana Sawyer, explores grief through the senses, which will consider how utilizing any six senses (taste, touch, sight, smell, hearing, imagination) can enhance the metabolization of grief allowing the process of grieving to cultivate wisdom and a greater appreciation of living. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Trailer · Tue, October 04, 2022
The Possibility of Pleasure
“ Joy allows you to open up a little bit — expand just a little bit — and reach for something maybe that you couldn't see before.” —Oceana Sawyer In this week’s episode, Oceana Sawyer and Sarah Davis talk about Oceana’s background, her guests for this miniseries, as well as some of her thoughts on joy and grieving. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled The Possibility of Pleasure , hosted by Oceana Sawyer. The Possibility of Pleasure miniseries explores grief through the senses, which will consider how utilizing any six senses (taste, touch, sight, smell, hearing, imagination) can enhance the metabolization of grief allowing the process of grieving to cultivate wisdom and a greater appreciation of living. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E67 · Tue, September 27, 2022
Surrender
“When I just let myself surrender and fully feel the grief, there's a certain point where my body knows that it can't take anymore. I often feel a rebound — and sometimes that is in the form of humor or other lightness — but I've also found that, when I don't just let myself fully feel, it doesn't happen.” Dara Kosberg In this week’s episode, Dara and Sarah recap the miniseries and their views on humor and grief. You’ll also hear excerpts from previous episodes. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Comedy and Grief, hosted by Dara Kosberg. The Comedy and Grief miniseries explores how humor allows people to get closer to their grief, explore it and better understand it, by creating a gateway into the hard feelings. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E66 · Tue, September 20, 2022
The Willingness to be Open with Vinny Ferraro
“One of my teachers says that all emotions contain their opposite. So when I'm willing to be with the grief, I have access to joy again. Instead of this armoring that comes very natural to us, we do our best to remain to find the willingness to open in an undefended way.” — Vinny Ferraro In this episode, Dara and Sarah talk with Vinny Ferraro about the training program, A Year to Live, emotional opposites and armor, insight meditation and how his practice has shifted his relationship to grief. Vinny Ferraro is a nationally recognized leader in designing and implementing mindfulness interventions. He’s served as the Training Director for Mindful Schools, Challenge Day and the Mind Body Awareness Project. His experience includes decades of direct services to incarcerated people. He’s been empowered in the Buddhist Insight tradition, and he’s been the Guiding Teacher of the Big Heart City Sangha in SF since 2004. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Grief and Humor , co-hosted by Dara Kosberg and Sarah Davis. The Grief and Humor miniseries explores how humor allows people to get closer to their grief, explore it and better understand it, by creating a gateway into the hard feelings. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E64 · Tue, September 06, 2022
Resilience is an Act of Care
“We often feel like maybe it's a betrayal of our grief to feel joy or that there's no room in grief for joy, or that it means, if we're grieving the loss of somebody who died that we loved, maybe we're not loving or honoring their memory enough or whatever the stories are that we tell ourselves. But we need joy to hold the heavy and the sad.” Naila Francis In this episode, Naila talks with Sarah Davis, producer, about her miniseries, joy as resilience, and the ways that resilience appeared in her conversations. This episode is part of the Breathing Wind miniseries titled Joy as Resilience , hosted by Naila Francis. The Joy as Resilience miniseries explores why embracing joy is not frivolous and how cultivating it can help us weather challenging times and open our lives to greater connection and purpose. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E64 · Tue, August 23, 2022
Born into Grief and Fully Embracing Joy with Colleen Attara
“I understood really early about when you go through extreme grief, that there's loss in different kinds of ways. It’s not just the person that passed away…It’s all the threads that hold you close.” Colleen Attara In this episode, Naila talks with Colleen Attara about her early experience of grief and how that’s informed her journey as an artist and educator; her willingness to embrace joy in the midst of transformation; and the gift of being a caregiver to her mom, which inspired her altered book art practice. This episode is part of the Breathing Wind miniseries titled Joy as Resilience , hosted by Naila Francis. The Joy as Resilience miniseries explores why embracing joy is not frivolous and how cultivating it can help us weather challenging times and open our lives to greater connection and purpose. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E63 · Tue, August 09, 2022
The Body is Everything
" So it's not [about] bypassing the grief, or bypassing any of it. It's about creating space for it, holding it, seeing it, recognizing it, having a conversation with it, you know, and really honoring it. And knowing that underneath that is this place for you to access your joy as well." Simone Baker This episode is part of the Breathing Wind miniseries titled Joy as Resilience , hosted by Naila Francis. The Joy as Resilience miniseries explores why embracing joy is not frivolous and how cultivating it can help us weather challenging times and open our lives to greater connection and purpose. In this episode, Naila talks with Simone Baker about her earliest experience with grief, how she began to “thaw” from the deep sadness she carried, and how the body can help process both joy and grief. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E62 · Tue, July 26, 2022
Devoted to Joy, Devoted to Grief
"I think you really have to have the sad to also appreciate the beauty." Moon Fang This episode is a part of the Breathing Wind miniseries titled Joy as Resilience , hosted by Naila Francis. The Joy as Resilience miniseries explores why embracing joy is not frivolous and how cultivating it can help us weather challenging times and open our lives to greater connection and purpose. In this episode, Naila talks with Moon Fang, Southern California-based death doula and enthusiast about their work in the death awareness community, their experience with partner loss, and how the difficult moments can help with receiving joy. Moon is a queer podcast host of Queer Death Stories and a future co-host of a project called Queering the Moon. They are a writer, a ritual dabbler and a seeker and a singer. A storyteller and a connector. Curiousness is their vice. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Trailer · Tue, July 19, 2022
Joy As Resilience
" Personally for me, joy is my inherent nature. I really do feel it to be the essence of who I am and how I move through the world, which is interesting because so much of the work I do is around grief and loss and dying. And yet those experiences and journeys are so much more expansive than we might believe them to be, and are capable of holding joy, too, and many other positive emotions that we might not associate with them.” Naila Francis This episode is the trailer for the Breathing Wind miniseries titled Joy as Resilience , hosted by Naila Francis. The Joy as Resilience miniseries explores why embracing joy is not frivolous and how cultivating it can help us weather challenging times and open our lives to greater connection and purpose. As a writer and a grief coach, Naila’s work is often informed by her love of poetry, the gifts of healing rooted in nature and community and her commitment to expanding our grief, literacy and death awareness. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E60 · Tue, June 28, 2022
Joy and Grief Touch the Same Part of the Heart (Part 2): Popular Film and Grief with Erin Lim and Angela Tabora
" So they experienced this death. And then they all have to band together – ‘we're still going to make everything happen.’ That's kind of how I felt after my dad passed away; I'm just going to do everything that I need to do." Angela Tabora This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Grief and Humor , co-hosted by Dara Kosberg and Sarah Davis. The Grief and Humor miniseries explores how humor allows people to get closer to their grief, explore it and better understand it, by creating a gateway into the hard feelings. This is a two-part episode. In this episode, Part 2, Dara and Sarah talk with Erin Lim and Angela Tabora, co hosts of B***h Talk Podcast about grief and humor we saw in Little Miss Sunshine and other films. If you haven’t listened yet, go back to Part 1 , where we talk about our parents’ humor, grief and humor, and humorous movies that remind them of their loved ones who passed away. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E57 · Sun, June 19, 2022
Joy and Grief Touch the Same Part of the Heart (Part 1): Our Parents and Humor with Erin Lim and Angela Tabora
"…you have to find the humor. If it's not in their death, it's maybe something in their life.” Erin Lim “My dad used to say that laughter is the best medicine…. I feel like it balances you out as well because you can't have the grief without the joy.” Angela Tabora This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Grief and Humor, co-hosted by Dara Kosberg and Sarah Davis. The Grief and Humor miniseries explores how humor allows people to get closer to their grief, explore it and better understand it, by creating a gateway into the hard feelings. In this episode, Dara and Sarah talk with Erin Lim and Angela Tabora, co hosts of B***h Talk Podcast, about their dads’ humor, grief and humor, and humorous movies that remind them of their loved ones who passed away. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E58 · Thu, June 02, 2022
Inner and Outer Wilderness: Finale
“It feels like a wilderness exploration journey where, yeah, some parts of it we know and love. And some parts of it, we just don't know enough. And it's always a bit of a discovery. And the weather's always going to be different.” — Duncan Cheung This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Inner and Outer Wilderness, hosted by Duncan Cheung . The Inner and Outer Wilderness miniseries explores the wonderment of and between the wilderness out there and within each of us. This is the last episode in Duncan’s miniseries and is a compilation episode, highlighting themes discussed, including the metaphor of the wilderness, discomfort versus danger, home, joy, how wilderness spaces can be healing, and compassion. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E57 · Tue, May 17, 2022
Compassion for Ourselves and Others: A Gateway to Emotional Freedom with Wendy Rolón and Duncan Cheung
" No one can avoid negative stuff happening. Negative stuff happens all the time on a lot of different levels, whether I got gum on the bottom of my shoe, or my father died, right? And everything in between. We can't control that. And again, nature is the perfect metaphor for this – being out in the wilderness helps cultivate your ability to stay with your strong, resilient, loving wise self. And to let that core part of you lead." Wendy Rolón This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Inner and Outer Wilderness, hosted by Duncan Cheung. The Inner and Outer Wilderness miniseries explores the wonderment of and between the wilderness out there and within each of us. For this episode, Sarah Davis, founder of Breathing Wind, led the conversation. In this episode, Sarah talks with Duncan and regular Breathing Wind contributor and grief counselor, Wendy Rolón, about compassion for ourselves and others, how they tap into nature’s healing powers, and how to work with our inner children. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Bonus · Sun, May 08, 2022
Lindsay Joy Taylor is Allowing Space for Joy and Grief
" When we give ourselves some space to just be, that's where those quiet little moments [of joy] can pop up alongside the grief." Lindsay Joy Taylor In this bonus episode, Sarah talks with Lindsay Joy Taylor, grief advocate and founder of The Joyful Jewelry Box, about her mom, inspiration behind the remembrance jewelry she creates, Mother’s Day and toxic positivity. The Joyful Jewelry Box is memorial jewelry to honor loved ones and keep their memories alive. When Lindsay was only 13 months old, her mom was killed. Now she keeps her mom’s memory alive by making remembrance jewelry and providing community grief support. She also writes and speaks to normalize grief and raise awareness about the lifelong impact of traumatic loss. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E55 · Thu, April 28, 2022
Reflective Joy: Reflecting on Experiences in the Inner and Outer Wilderness with Rick and Karen Najarian
“Out there, we are not our Mercedes or our home or our job or our degrees. We are just us. And it's enough.” Karen Najarian This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Inner and Outer Wilderness, hosted by Duncan Cheung. The Inner and Outer Wilderness miniseries explores the wonderment of and between the wilderness out there and within each of us. In this episode, Duncan talks with Dr Rick and Karen Najarian about the full expansiveness and joy of the wilderness, Karen's experience as a guide and the power of reflective joy her students experienced, the important distinction between sage versus teacher, and how to model comfort in a place and time that is otherwise uncomfortable. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E54 · Tue, April 12, 2022
Sydney Williams is Hiking her Feelings
“So, in the pursuit of healing, joy is kind of a natural byproduct of that for me. But it takes a tremendous amount of work and awareness to recognize joy when it's present, because it's not always sunshine and rainbows and unicorns and hippie dippy stuff. Sometimes joy is just the absence of despair, that can feel tremendous — especially coming out of these really deep, dark and long periods — where it just feels like slog of moving through things to just be on the other side of pain. Just the absence of that despair and confusion can feel like joy, and can give us clues in our body as to like what it feels like to be in that space.” - Sydney Williams This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Inner and Outer Wilderness, hosted by Duncan Cheung. The Inner and Outer Wilderness miniseries explores the wonderment of and between the wilderness out there and within each of us. In this episode, Duncan talks with Sydney Williams, founder of Hiking My Feelings, about how her inner and outer wilderness experience moved her to form a nonprofit dedicated to helping people heal through hiking. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Trailer · Tue, April 05, 2022
Inner and Outer Wilderness
"Be fully there. Breathe it in, listen to what the winds have to say. What the birds have to say, what the water has to say, and (this sounds so crunchy granola) it really boils down to that simple thing: it's just being there. And when I'm there, I'm here. I'm fully present in the moment, in time and in space. And when I sit after a long, grueling hike, and I sit whether it's next to a beautiful lake, sunny weather, cloudless skies, or if it's hailing and storming above me, and I'm back with hail pellets, stuck at 11,000 feet on an unexposed ridge with thunder and lightning around me, I feel connected, I feel that I get to be a living thing in the vastness of the wilderness. And it starts to put things into context for me.“ Duncan Cheung This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Inner and Outer Wilderness, hosted by Duncan Cheung. The Inner and Outer Wilderness miniseries explores the wonderment of and between the wilderness out there and within each of us. In this episode, Sarah Davis talks with Duncan Cheung about some of the foundational concepts covered in his miniseries. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E52 · Thu, March 24, 2022
The Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage with Diane Wyzga
"The undercurrent of the Camino is pilgrimage; it's walking in some spiritual way and being willing to rely on the kindness and support of others. You're removed from everything that you know. It's not your language, it's not your home, it's not your community. It's not your anything. And yet you put yourself in that situation, expecting that there will be some sort of transformation, change, shift, or whatever that comes from this endeavor.” Diane Wyzga This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Finding Unexpected Joy, hosted by Sarah Davis. The Finding Unexpected Joy miniseries explores the idea that joy can happen in the midst of grief, and that maybe we don’t know yet what might come out of our grief journeys. In this episode, Sarah talks with Diane Wyzga, a podcaster, story strategizer and communication consultant about the Camino, the pilgrimage and spiritual aspect of it, as well as its ability to connect and provide refuge. Diane and Sarah talk about: How walking the Camino can teach you about yourself Sarah’s journey through grief on the Camino Diane’s learnings on the Camino The concept of pilgrimage and how it relates to life How they found support while walking To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S3 E51 · Tue, March 08, 2022
Turning Pain into Purpose: Carly Moosah's Breast Cancer Journey
“Chemo was really hard. But there were really good days too – they weren't the best feeling healthy days – but there was something that happened on those days. You suddenly have the shift in perspective of appreciating the smallest things, because when you have something that's knocking you, sideways, weekly – I was having chemo every week for 12 weeks – when you have a good moment, the world is more colorful, and everything becomes more incredible. And I got to push my kids on a swing and I was out of bed! All those things become just what living is all about.” - Carly Moosah This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Finding Unexpected Joy, hosted by Sarah Davis. The Finding Unexpected Joy miniseries explores the idea that joy can happen in the midst of grief, and that maybe we don’t know yet what might come out of our grief journeys. In this episode, Sarah talks with Carly Moosah about her mom’s cancer diagnosis and then coming to terms with her own, her perspective on joy in the midst of cancer treatment, and advice she provides for others undergoing cancer treatment. Carly is the co-founder of www.keepemquiet.com , a writer/blogger, breast cancer advocate & survivor, and mum of two. She’s based out of London. Carly and Sarah talk about: Carly’s family history of breast cancer and her mother's experience Carly’s fear of cancer and how she shifted her perception toward that of fascination How she speaks to her kids about cancer, versus how her mom spoke to her Cancer’s warrior mode Carly’s advice for listeners Related resources: Carly’s Instagram Carly’s Linktr.ee <a href="https://audiob
S3 E50 · Tue, February 22, 2022
Writing from the Heart with Dr. Jason Ridler: Finding unexpected new directions from grief and tragedy
“The joy was not just in the simple stuff — like a good cup of coffee and being being mindful and present — but experiencing joy, looking for joy, and having a hand in it. And knowing that does not have to be completed necessarily by somebody validating it.” -Dr. Jason Ridler This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Finding Unexpected Joy, hosted by Sarah Davis. The Finding Unexpected Joy miniseries explores the idea that joy can happen in the midst of grief, and that maybe we don’t know yet what might come out of our grief journeys. In this episode, Sarah talks with Dr. Jason Ridler (Dr. Jay) about the act of writing as a way to process by doing, how his grief transformed his relationship to writing, and how he connected back to the joy of why he became a writer in the first place. Dr. Jay is an historian, writer, and teacher of creative writing who has worked for such clients as Johns Hopkins University, Google, and the US Naval Academy, among others. A former punk rock musician and cemetery groundskeeper, Dr. Jay remains a loyal but critical form of professional wrestling. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E49 · Tue, February 08, 2022
49: A Walk in the Park with Friends
" Everyone goes through their own grief in their own way. And to know your own allows you to respect that of others, gives you the opportunity to respect that of others. " Colleen Stobbe This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Finding Unexpected Joy, hosted by Sarah Davis. The Finding Unexpected Joy miniseries explores the idea that joy can happen in the midst of grief, and that maybe we don’t know yet what might come out of our grief journeys. In this episode, Sarah talks with Colleen Stobbe about model yacht sailing, grief and how she came to empathize with Sarah during her loss, and transition of club members after they’ve left this earth. Colleen is a retired bilingual elementary teacher for 22 years and a mentor of beginning teachers for 10 years. Retirement from education allowed her to participate more in the San Francisco Model Yacht Club (SFMYC) in Golden Gate Park, sailing free-sail boats along with serving three years as Vice Commodore. She just finished serving five years as Commodore, the first woman to be elected to that position in the SFMYC. She's looking forward to being a full time grandmother, who will still sail free-sail and support the SFMYC in a variety of ways. Colleen and Sarah talk about: [3:30] Model yachts [10:44] Memorial service for members [14:55] Colleen’s personal experience with early parent loss [20:14] Sarah’s dad’s experience in the association Related resources: San Francisco Model Yacht Club (SFMYC) MY #175 ( Model Yachting Magazine issue covering the SFMYC) 100 Years of Model Boating (Book colleen recommended) </u
Trailer · Tue, February 01, 2022
48: What is Joy?
"Joy is who we are when our hearts are at their wildest. It's the integration between our doing and our being." - Duncan Cheung "Humor has always allowed me to get closer to my grief, explore it, and better understand it by creating a gateway into the hard feelings that isn't so scary, so heavy. And when I'm deep in my grief, humor lets me come up for air, and then go even deeper." - Dara Kosberg "Happiness comes from the things that happen to us. But joy, I believe, is a state of being that we can nurture from within." - Naila Francis "Joy takes into account the full spectrum of feelings. Joy is the both /and. In other words, joy can be felt at any time for any reason with other emotions like grief. Joy is a release, Joy is living in flow." -Sarah Davis This is the official trailer for Season Three. Join Breathing Wind guests-turned-hosts, Dara Kosberg ( episode 09 ) and Naila Francis ( episode 38 ), as well as newcomer Duncan Cheung and Season One host Sarah Davis ( episode 00 ) for a conversation on joy. During Season 3, we will talk with people who give us joy, including comedy experts, wilderness guides, and writers to discuss joy and grief. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E47 · Tue, November 30, 2021
47: Memorable Moments from Season Two: Healing
This season, four hosts covered healing from very different perspectives. This episode is a compilation of a few conversations they held. Wendy Rolón, death doula and bereavement counselor, hosted the first mini-series called “Transforming Grief.” The guest featured in this episode is Christine Kovach, bereavement counselor with Mission Hospice. In their episode, they covered grief counseling, healing through expressive arts, and the hope she sees in her work. Ken Breniman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified yoga therapist, plant medicine integration specialist and a thanatologist, hosted the next mini-series called “Meaning making, Mortality and Medicine.” The guests featured in this episode are musicians Madeleine Bachan Kaur and Dave Koz. In their episodes, they covered memories, parent loss and continuing bonds. Deborah Szeto, ICU and palliative care nurse, hosted a mini-series titled “Embrace Death, Live Life.” The guests featured in this episode are Deborah Szeto and Naila Francis, death midwife. In their episodes, they discussed their motivations and inspiration behind the work they do. Sarah Davis hosted a mini-series titled “Caregiving Journey.” The guest featured in this episode is Jenn Chan, founder of Senior Shower Project. In their episode, Jenn talked about her grandma and the inspiration behind holding parties for caregivers. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Tue, November 02, 2021
46: Without a Fight
How might you care for someone at the end of their life when your relationship isn’t perfect? In this episode, Laura Davis and Sarah Davis talk about caregiving when still healing from past traumas, power dynamic flip from child to caregiver and caring for people with dementia. Laura Davis is a six-time bestselling author who leads transformative writing workshops internationally. Her latest book, a memoir, The Burning Light of Two Stars, is about the dramatic twists and turns of mother-daughter love. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Caregiving Journey , hosted by Breathing Wind founder and host, Sarah Davis. The Caregiving Journey miniseries explores: How stories of other caregivers can help us feel less alone Ambiguous grief and caregiving at end of life The shifting roles of the caregiver How and why to seek self-care Joy in the caregiving journey In this ~41-minute episode, Sarah and Laura talk about: [3:08] Relationships are complicated, which makes grief complicated [3:42] Laura’s relationship with her mom [9:10] Reconciliation [10:03] What was going on in Laura’s life when her mom decided to move to her city and how she processed that [12:43] Excerpt from Chapter Two, “The Call” [19:41] Laura’s reflections on the call [25:11] Caring for someone with dementia [25:30] “One of the things that was so confusing to
Bonus · Fri, October 22, 2021
45: Caregiving Mantra
What are mantras? What is their purpose? In this bonus episode, I explore this concept and Serena Malkani provides a caregiving mantra. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Caregiving Journey , hosted by Breathing Wind founder and host, Sarah Davis. The Caregiving Journey miniseries explores: How stories of other caregivers can help us feel less alone Ambiguous grief and caregiving at end of life The shifting roles of the caregiver How and why to seek self-care Joy in the caregiving journey To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E44 · Tue, September 28, 2021
44: Advocate and Caregiver
Who is advocating for cancer awareness in your state? What is their story? In this episode, Kandis Draw and I have a conversation about her caregiving and cancer advocacy. Kandis Draw lives in Chicago, is a classically trained pianist and a lover of philanthropy. She is a member of the Aids Foundation of Chicago Associate Board, Gilda’s Club Chicago Associate Board, and is an active National Advocate for the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. She has written articles for NOCC National, and Splash Magazine. She writes a column at Curvicality Magazine which is an online magazine focusing on body positivity for plus-sized women. She lost her mom to ovarian cancer in 2014 and since then, has been advocating for ovarian cancer awareness. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Caregiving Journey , hosted by Breathing Wind founder and host, Sarah Davis. The Caregiving Journey miniseries explores: How stories of other caregivers can help us feel less alone Ambiguous grief and caregiving at end of life The shifting roles of the caregiver How and why to seek self-care Joy in the caregiving journey In this ~28-minute episode, Kandis describes: [1:26] How Kandis became a caregiver to her mom with late-stage ovarian cancer [2:24] Ovarian cancer is harder to detect than other gynecological cancers [3:54] Caregiving is a full-time job [5:28] How Kandis discovered her community of supporters [7:24] Kandis’ mom did not choose the traditional route of cancer treatment [8:37] The value of venting to understanding friends [9:45] Sandwich caregiving: ho
S1 E43 · Tue, September 14, 2021
43: Being Held
How might you care for yourself while caregiving? In this episode, Rachel Mark, Lucy Bellwood and I talk about caregiving. Rachel Mark is a fabrication artist for stop-motion animation and an ADHD/Creative Coach. She took care of her brother, Daniel, who was born with epilepsy and cerebral palsy, and her uncle, Lou, when he was diagnosed with MAL syndrome. Lucy Bellwood is a professional Adventure Cartoonist, writer, and educator. She is taking care of her father, who has moderate stage dementia. This is part two of a two-part episode. The first part is really about letting go — letting go of perfection to be a better caregiver — letting go of expectations of your loved one — and letting go of future expectations. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Caregiving Journey , hosted by Breathing Wind founder and host, Sarah Davis. The Caregiving Journey miniseries explores: How stories of other caregivers can help us feel less alone Ambiguous grief and caregiving at end of life The shifting roles of the caregiver How and why to seek self-care Joy in the caregiving journey In this ~48-minute episode, Rachel, Lucy, and Sarah talk about: 2:05 - “This is a list, I wrote it for both of you, I didn't know you at the time. But almost everyone is gonna face this at some point in their life. And so helping friends be prepared for this thing that is something no one ever trained us for is really important to me.” - Rachel 2:32 - How improv can be helpful when caregiving for people with dementia 5:47 - “But really, when you're at the center of this, your energy is so precious, and managing it is super important. It's okay to need a break. It's okay to take care of yourself first sometimes and prioritize your energy.” - Rachel 7:52 - Reflections on Zen Caregiving Project’s caregiving class and giving self-love. 9:29 - The only one who won’t leave you is yourself 10:17 - Though self-care is important, it’s also important to lean on community 10:59 - Rachel’s exercise to hold compassion and show up for others 12:22 - Lucy’s reflections on her self-sufficiency bias 15:16 - How people show up when you need it the most 16:09 - Lucy’s reflections on the community support she’s had for caregiving for her dad during the pandemic 18:31 - “One thing that I did want to speak to is tha
S2 E42 · Tue, August 17, 2021
42: Letting Go
How do you let go of making everything perfect when caregiving? In this episode, Rachel Mark, Lucy Bellwood and I had a conversation about caregiving. Rachel Mark is a fabrication artist for stop-motion animation and an ADHD/Creative Coach. She took care of her brother, Daniel, who was born with epilepsy and cerebral palsy, and her uncle, Lou, when he was diagnosed with MAL syndrome. Lucy Bellwood is a professional Adventure Cartoonist, writer, and educator. She is taking care of her father, who has moderate stage dementia. This is part one of a two-part episode. The first part is really about letting go — letting go of perfection to be a better caregiver — letting go of expectations of your loved one — and letting go of future expectations. The next part, to follow, is all about being held within (the “self-care” episode). This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Caregiving Journey , hosted by Breathing Wind founder and host, Sarah Davis. The Caregiving Journey miniseries explores: How stories of other caregivers can help us feel less alone Ambiguous grief and caregiving at end of life The shifting roles of the caregiver How and why to seek self-care Joy in the caregiving journey In this ~48-minute episode, Rachel, Lucy and Sarah talk about: 03:08: Background on Rachel’s virtual accountability / self employed / freelancer coffee shop turned “emotional support animal” version of a coffee shop 08:30: “It's very easy to feel isolated, even when you aren't actually isolated.” 09:17: The relationship changes when caregiving 10:31: Rachel’s story of caretaking for her uncle Lou with MAL Syndrome 12:55: Lucy discussing the negotiation process with another caregiver (her mom) and how she has had to let go of perfectionism when it comes to caregiving</spa
S2 E41 · Mon, August 16, 2021
41: Staying in
Cheryl Jones prepared for 10 years for her first wife’s passing. She did this in a way that was true to her and true to how they chose to live. This prepared her to be able to support others. In this episode, Sarah talks with Cheryl about her caregiving journey, her different experiences with loss after her wife died and how her children dealt with the loss. Cheryl Jones is a grief counselor, educator and the host of Good Grief, a podcast about transformation after loss. She is also the author of a novel, An Ocean Between Them. Cheryl’s work is informed by the ten years of her first wife’s life limiting illness. Expected to live six months to a year, she lived with cancer for almost a decade. In the losses Cheryl has experienced since then she has been grateful for what she learned about facing loss and finding greater meaning in her life as a result. Cheryl lives in Oakland with her second wife and is grateful for three children, 3 grandchildren and the wonder of living. In this 40-minute episode, Cheryl and Sarah talk about: 2:03: Caregiving for her first wife for 10 years, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma 4:30: “You can’t be prepared for grief, but you can prepare.” 5:52: Role of community in Cheryl’s caregiving experience 9:53: How finding a coordinator to manage help from the community was crucial 11:00: They made lists for delineating the type of help people could provide 14:19: The role of anticipatory grief in their relationship 17:30: The support Cheryl sought spiritually and emotionally to prepare for loss 25:38: How being present during her partner’s death helped her help her parents when they needed caregiving at the end of their lives 29:39: How her daughters dealt with the loss of her first wife and how they prepared them with honesty about de
S2 E40 · Tue, July 20, 2021
40: Flipping the Script on Caregiving
Caregiving is a rite of passage. How might we find joy in it? In this episode, Sarah talks with Jenn Chan, about her caregiving journey, support groups, and how her current work revolves around caregiver joy. Jenn Chan, CSA®, CCC™, is the Founder of Senior Shower® Project, a startup with a mission to celebrate family caregivers of older adults with a party. She creates caregiver appreciation cards, curates caregiver gift boxes, and designs caregiver party kits. While Jenn provided care for her grandma, she developed a passion for caregiving and dedicated her career to elevate the caregiver role with fun, love, and positivity. Jenn also facilitates support groups for LGBTQ seniors, dementia caregivers, and young caregivers. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Caregiving Journey , hosted by Breathing Wind founder and host, Sarah Davis. The Caregiving Journey miniseries explores: How stories of other caregivers can help us feel less alone Ambiguous grief and caregiving at end of life The shifting roles of the caregiver How and why to seek self-care Joy in the caregiving journey To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Trailer · Tue, July 13, 2021
39: Caregiving Journey
In this episode, Breathing Wind host and producer, Sarah Davis talks about the upcoming mini-series on caregiving. The Caregiving Journey miniseries explores: How stories of other caregivers can help us feel less alone Ambiguous grief and caregiving at end of life The shifting roles of the caregiver How and why to seek self-care Joy in the caregiving journey To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E38 · Tue, June 15, 2021
38: Reclaiming the Death Roadmap
Who writes the roadmap when one doesn’t exist? In this episode, Deborah interviews Naila Francis, a death midwife and grief coach, about her journey to becoming a death midwife and how this work fills a gap for people seeking a different approach to death and dying. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Embrace Death, Live Life, hosted by ICU and palliative care nurse, Deborah Szeto. The Embrace Death, Live Life miniseries explores the work of palliative care in healing and how we can live fuller lives while embracing and normalizing death. Episode Length: 37 mins. 3:41 - Naila’s career journey from journalist to death midwife 5:54 - Naila’s views on her father’s experience passing away at a Saint Lucia hospital 11:37 - How Naila views what could have been different about how her father died, as well as how grace-filled her experience was to be by his side 15:31 - The lack of a roadmap for navigating her father’s death 16:04 - Cultural and relational reasons for not having a conversation about death and dying beforehand 18:32 - The difference between “death midwife” and “death doula” 20:52 - How death midwives and death doulas fill a gap that hospice and other forms of healthcare cannot 23:57 - Guiding conversations about wishes and quality of life at end of life and questions Naila asks during consultations with clients 29:09 - Working with death changes the way Naila and Deborah live their lives 31:38 - Views on working with the full range of ritual and occasions, from baby blessings to end of life 34:05 - Families have choice and agency in how to encounter death To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus
S2 E37 · Tue, June 01, 2021
37: Walking Beside: The Work of a Chaplain
Are chaplains only for religious or spiritual people? In this episode, Deborah talks with Jeffrey Ishmael, a chaplain on the outpatient palliative care team at John Muir health in Walnut Creek, CA, about the role of the chaplain in palliative care, his perspectives having worked in this role, and how this work connects to grief and suffering. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Embrace Death, Live Life, hosted by ICU and palliative care nurse, Deborah Szeto. The Embrace Death, Live Life miniseries explores the work of palliative care in healing and how we can live fuller lives while embracing and normalizing death. Jeffrey and Deborah talk about how: The role of a chaplain transcends much more than religion/spirituality (although that is still important) As a society, we have become removed from and fearful of death; it feels sterile and foreign Palliative care is about relieving suffering, finding meaning, promoting quality of life We have to start normalizing conversations about medical goals and end-of-life wishes Episode Length: 36 mins. [2:54] Chaplaincy: What it is and role in patient care [7:49] Jeffrey’s story in how he became a chaplain [14:20] It’s all about grief [19:56] How Jeffrey encourages patients to think about life and legacy [23:45] How the palliative care team works with patients to improve quality of life [24:44] Misunderstandings about palliative care [29:48] How to have the end of life conversation with loved ones To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with
S2 E36 · Tue, May 18, 2021
36: Power of Story
What is the power of narrative? In this episode, Deborah talks with Jessica Zitter, MD, MPH, about the power of story in context of palliative care and her calling in this work. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Embrace Death, Live Life, hosted by ICU and palliative care nurse, Deborah Szeto. The Embrace Death, Live Life miniseries explores the work of palliative care in healing and how we can live fuller lives while embracing and normalizing death. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E35 · Tue, May 11, 2021
35: Embrace Death, Live Life
How might we begin to demystify death for each other and live fully alongside it? In this episode, Deborah Szeto, ICU and palliative care nurse, and Breathing Wind producer, Sarah Davis, talk about Deborah’s background, her passion for having important conversations, and how she has shifted her perspective since being an ICU and palliative care nurse. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Embrace Death, Live Life, hosted by Deborah Szeto. The Embrace Death, Live Life miniseries explores the work of palliative care in healing and how we can live fuller lives while embracing and normalizing death. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E34 · Tue, May 04, 2021
34: Belonging
What is resilience and how does it inform a healer’s work? In this episode, Tim Nguyen and mini-series host Ken Breniman from Season One ( ep 08 ) talk about Tim’s relationship with his father, his father’s diagnosis, ancestral trauma, empathy in understanding trauma and how Tim has cultivated a sense of belonging. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Meaning Making, Mortality and Medicine , hosted by Ken Breniman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified yoga therapist, plant medicine integration specialist and a thanatologist. Ken’s miniseries explores finding ways to bring meaning in our grief journeys, making sense of being mortal and and making the most out of life, and healing medicines, which he defines as “what we create for healing in our grief journey.” To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E33 · Tue, April 20, 2021
33: By Land and By Sea
How might we form our unique and continuing bond with our parents who’ve passed away? In this episode, Dave Koz, accomplished saxophonist and entrepreneur, and mini-series host Ken Breniman from Season One ( ep 08 ) talk about Dave’s relationship with the saxophone, rites of passage, and how he and his siblings have honored their parents. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Meaning Making, Mortality and Medicine , hosted by Ken Breniman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified yoga therapist, plant medicine integration specialist and a thanatologist. Ken’s miniseries explores finding ways to bring meaning in our grief journeys, making sense of being mortal and and making the most out of life, and healing medicines, which he defines as “what we create for healing in our grief journey.” To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E32 · Tue, March 23, 2021
32: Water in Her Eyes
What is memory? In this episode, Madeleine Bachan Kaur and Ken Breniman from Season One ( ep 08 ) talk about how we remember our deceased parents. Madeleine Bachan Kaur is a motherless child who has found healing through her love of Nature, as well as her creativity in both art and music. In sharing how she allows the memories of her mother to be both fluid and natural, there is an invitation to anyone who is grieving. Madeleine invites each of us to find ways to connect to Mother Earth so our hueman experiences of grief and growth can be witnessed by others, as well as be a precious contribution to the flowing quality of Life. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Meaning Making, Mortality and Medicine , hosted by Ken Breniman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified yoga therapist, plant medicine integration specialist and a thanatologist. Ken’s miniseries explores finding ways to bring meaning in our grief journeys, making sense of being mortal and and making the most out of life, and healing medicines, which he defines as “what we create for healing in our grief journey.” To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Trailer · Tue, March 16, 2021
31: A Work in Progress
What is meaning making, mortality, and medicine? In this episode, Ken Breniman from Season One ( ep 08 ) and Sarah Davis, founder of the Breathing Wind podcast, talk about belonging, medicine, ritual and normalizing healing. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Meaning Making, Mortality and Medicine , hosted by Ken Breniman, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified yoga therapist, plant medicine integration specialist and a thanatologist. Ken’s miniseries explores finding ways to bring meaning in our grief journeys, making sense of being mortal and and making the most out of life, and healing medicines, which he defines as “what we create for healing in our grief journey.” To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes. Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E30 · Tue, March 09, 2021
30: What Feels Safe
How might we learn to find safety again after loss? In this episode, Wendy Rolón from Season One ( ep 15 ) and Emma Stern, AMFT, trauma-informed yoga teacher and counselor with a focus on somatics, talk about trauma-informed yoga, self-soothing, and community. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Transforming Grief , hosted by Wendy Rolón, end of life doula, bereavement counselor and workshop facilitator. The Transforming Grief miniseries explores what we can do as humans to embrace grief as a tool for growth. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes. Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E29 · Tue, February 23, 2021
29: Activating the Healer Within
How might we use sound to work with grief? In this episode, Wendy Rolón from Season One ( ep 15 ) and Serena Malkani, Sound Practitioner, Ayurvedic Counselor and Intuitive Coach, talk about sound healing with grief, healing through vocal/musical expression, and the ways this works with self and community. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Transforming Grief , hosted by Wendy Rolón, end of life doula, bereavement counselor and workshop facilitator. The Transforming Grief miniseries explores what we can do as humans to embrace grief as a tool for growth. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes. Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E28 · Tue, February 09, 2021
28: Hope
" You know, this is not just an emotional experience, but a physical one, often a spiritual one, to explore those aspects of what is changed in you when grieving and then to start to take stock of resilience and find that hope together, I think those are the values of grief counseling." Christine Kovach Is there hope in grief? In this episode, Wendy Rolón from Season One ( ep 15 ) and Christine Kovach, bereavement counselor for Mission Hospice, talk about grief counseling, healing through expressive arts, and the hope she sees in her work. This episode is part of a Breathing Wind miniseries titled Transforming Grief , hosted by Wendy Rolón, end of life doula, bereavement counselor and workshop facilitator. The Transforming Grief miniseries explores what we can do as humans to embrace grief as a tool for growth. To find out more about this episode and subscribe to the newsletter, visit the show notes. Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Trailer · Tue, February 02, 2021
27: What is Healing?
“Grief is this way that we metabolize loss, and grief affords us the chance to really get intimate with our experience with our own needs.” - Wendy Rolón “Healing is both a journey and a process. And healing involves a willingness to offer ourselves care and kindness along the way.” - Ken Breniman “Healing really means acknowledging what's at the root of the grief-- whatever was lost -- and working through it physically, mentally, emotionally or spiritually.” - Deborah Szeto This is the official trailer for Season Two. Join Season One guests-turned-hosts, Wendy Rolón ( episode 15 ) and Ken Breniman ( episode 08 ), as well as newcomer Deborah Szeto and Season One host Sarah Davis ( episode 00 ) for a conversation on healing. During Season 2, we will talk with healers, musicians, facilitators and artists to discuss transforming grief; meaning making, mortality and medicine; embracing death and living life; and caregiving at the end of life. To learn more about the hosts, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E26 · Fri, January 22, 2021
26: The Adjourney
What is the focus, is it grief plus change, or change plus grief? This is the first episode of Season Two (technically, though, it’s 1.5), and Sonia Loredo Traviesa and I have a conversation about her work, as well as change, grief, and our parallel struggles during 2020. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S-1 E25 · Tue, November 10, 2020
25: Irrational Thoughts
What role does wonder have in grief? How do we change when grief affects us so young? This is the last episode of Season One and I’ve chosen Surya Ohara to represent the conclusion, as she also represents the beginning of this podcast. We met at The Everything Conference in 2019, at a time when I really needed to have a community of others pursuing nontraditional paths to inspire me to keep going. In this episode, we touch on her story. We talk about her memories of her father, her father’s funeral, and how grief and wonder didn’t come to her until later in life. She also shares an excerpt from her blog titled “ The Role of Wonder in Surviving Grief .” To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S2 E24 · Tue, October 27, 2020
24: Family Man
How does who we are carry on from who our parents are? Christopher Williams’ dad , Donald, passed away suddenly when he was in his late thirties. In this episode, we talk about his dad, his family and upbringing, his values around family, and even his plans for his dad’s barbeque sauce. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E23 · Tue, October 20, 2020
23: Grief is a Shipwreck
How might death shape us as compassionate and connected human beings, and how do we hold our community and allow our community to witness us during the hardest times of our lives? Daisy’s mom, Kim, passed away from breast cancer when she was 30. In this episode, she talks about how she made it through that loss and how she continues to honor her today. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E22 · Tue, September 29, 2020
22: The Male Dynamic
What role does our gender play in grief? Paul Sockett is from England and has been developing his career as a professional actor and performer for 15 years. Paul considers himself an empath and, during the time of this recording, he was with his partner, supporting her through her loss. His feelings related to grief, even anger, came forward in this recording. In this episode, we talk about Paul’s experience and how grief shows up in his life today, as a man, actor, and partner. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E21 · Tue, September 15, 2020
21: Silver Linings Person
As grievers, I think we can all relate to hearing something like, “At least they didn’t suffer,” or “Well, they had a good life.” These cringe-worthy glass-half-full clichés are etched into how our American culture processes loss. So, what do you say to someone who’s grieving? This is what Laura specializes in. In this episode, I interview Laura Jack , a Mastery Level Transformational Life Coach, speaker, and compassionate leadership trainer. Laura talks about her mom and how her mom’s death catalyzed her growth from being a silver linings person to someone who feels all of her feelings authentically, her relationship with grief and happiness, and how she came to understand compassionate communication was her gift to the world. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E20 · Tue, September 01, 2020
20: Training Wheels
What do you prioritize in life and why? In this episode, I interview Andrew Kaufteil, a marketing executive and friend of mine. When he lost his dad, he shifted his approach to prioritizing relationships over success and status. Andrew discusses his dad’s memory, his loss, and how he focuses now on his mom. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E19 · Tue, August 18, 2020
19: Trauma, Grief, and Emotions
What effect does trauma have on our bodies? How does grief fit in? Joie Seldon is a trainer, coach, and specialist in the field of Emotional Intelligence. In this episode, she talks about the type of parent loss and trauma situation that Saam faced ( Episode 18 ) and goes beyond this to focus on grief and parent loss in general, in context of how our body processes emotions, the lost expectations that can cause grief, and microtraumas surrounding parent loss. Though our conversation was recorded during pre-Covid times, it still holds relevance today. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E18 · Tue, August 04, 2020
18: Loss is a Relief
Can genetics determine our future? What do we do when permanent loss creates mixed feelings and outcomes? Saam Barringer explores some of these ideas and how losing his dad shaped how he parents his children today. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E17 · Tue, July 21, 2020
17: Tending to Grief
What does it mean to tend to our grief? Alica Forneret is a writer, facilitator, and Grief Guide who creates spaces for people to explore their grief. She is fiercely committed to making sure that we have more conversations about grief, death, and dying - whether that’s at home, at work, or with strangers on the bus. This episode was recorded live in collaboration with the “ Reimagine: Life, Loss, & Love ,” virtual festival, a response to COVID-19. In this episode, we talk about Alica’s mom and how grief has shaped her work today. Alica talks about: Her mom and family life growing up Planning her mom’s funeral and the advice she gives for those in similar situations Learning about and tending to her grieving process How her work has helped her process To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Tue, July 07, 2020
16: Uncovering Her Mom’s Narrative and Redefining Her Own
How can we make sense of and reshape our narratives around loss when the loss is so formative? In this episode, I interview Christina Vo , a women's mentor and guide, about the experience of losing her mother at age 14, and how she's understood and incorporated her mother’s death into her narrative over time. Christina talks about: Her mother’s journey from Vietnam, and how her experience was reflected in her character and parenting style. Discovering more about her mom’s life after her death. How she understands her mom’s death in her life now, 25 years after her passing, and how this is reflected in her personal life. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E15 · Tue, June 23, 2020
15: A Feeling of Completeness
When we die, what choices do we consciously make? How might we be guided through this major transition? Wendy Rolón ’s background is in birth and end of life doula work, music, writing and fiber art. She is particularly awed by grief's ability to transform and expand our lives. A long-time supporter of those in transition, Wendy brings a calm and loving presence to any situation . In this episode, we cover a range of topics, from the Covid-19 pandemic, to her personal and early loss of her mother, to how this has informed her work today. Wendy talks about: The pandemic and end of life work Her early experience of losing her mom, and how it has informed her work Her perspectives and beliefs around end of life To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E14 · Tue, June 02, 2020
14: Living Every Year Like It's the Last
How can we make sense of tragedy? In this episode, I interview April Rinne , a public speaker, advisor, writer, and globetrotter. She advises, speaks, writes, and advocates for businesses and policies fit for the 21st-century change (adopting what she calls a "flux mindset") . April discusses the experience of losing both of her parents in a car accident when she was 20, and how, out of that tragedy, she set out to make better sense of the world (including a world in flux) , and eventually, help make the world a better place. April talks about: Her parents and her changing views of family after losing them Her travels and taking the uncommon path after college Living a purpose-filled life to serve others To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E13 · Tue, May 26, 2020
13: The Space to be Messy
Grief is at an unprecedented level during Covid-19 and yet we are losing the normal in-person ways we grieve. How can we stay connected? Lennon Flowers is the co-founder of The Dinner Party, a platform for connecting mostly 20 and 30 somethings, as well as early 40 somethings, people who are often among the first in their peer community to experience a loss. In this episode, Lennon and I have a discussion about authentic conversations and creating spaces, virtual and in-person, that help people dealing with loss. Lennon talks about: The format of The Dinner Party and the role of the host Modeling vulnerability and encouraging authentic conversation, even in online spaces The paradox of grief in this moment of Covid-19: Both heartbreak and hope can coexist To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode and listen to bonus tracks, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E12 · Tue, May 19, 2020
12: Beyond the Bookends
Grief is at an unprecedented level during Covid-19 and yet we are losing the normal in-person ways we grieve. What can we find from the spirit world to guide us during these times? And, what can we do to show our loved ones we care when they’re transitioning? Sand Symes is a Northern California-based modern medicine woman, shamanic practitioner, spiritual teacher, certified coach, former social worker, and intuitive healing guide. Sand and I talk about the concept of transition and how this fits in her viewpoint on death as a shamanic practitioner. Sand talks about: Her views as a shamanic practitioner on the experience of loss during this pandemic Shapeshifting, intuition, and transitions in the context of death, life, and growth How to show your love when loved ones pass away To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode and listen to Sand's bonus gratitude for mothers on Mother's Day, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E11 · Tue, May 12, 2020
11: When Spirit Eats Beauty
Grief is at an unprecedented level during Covid-19 and yet we are losing the normal in-person ways we grieve. How can we create connected ways to grieve? Siena Tenisci is a facilitator, or “grief tender,” of the Pacific Healing Circle’s online grief rituals. She brings her background in body-based somatic healing practices, group therapy, and ceremonial work to community grief tending. Siena and I talk about the ways the Grief Tenders are holding a sacred online space for grieving during these times. We talk about how there’s no right way to “do” grief, and Siena covers some of the many ways people express grief through their online sessions. We also talk through the importance of beauty in ritual, and the ways we can take care of ourselves while taking part in ritual. Siena and I discuss: Ritual and beauty as a form of honoring our ancestors and recognizing the grief we collectively feel. How to embody grief, to connect back to ourselves and to each other, even when online. The concept of the sacred witness, or deeply present listening. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode and listen to a bonus grief tending sample, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Tue, May 05, 2020
10: Comfort in the Written Word
Grief is at an unprecedented level during Covid-19 and yet we are losing the normal, social ways we grieve. What are some tools we can use to process our grief? Charlotte Fox Weber and I talk about grief and bibliotherapy as an approach to processing grief during the age of Covid-19. Charlotte and I discuss: Her work with the School of Life and bibliotherapy The value of reading and re-reading during grief Our go-tos for authors and literature To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E9 · Tue, April 28, 2020
09: Seeing Your Story in Others
What is the value of hearing stories from others? In this episode, I interview Dara Kosberg, Director of Programming for Reimagine, who discusses art and connecting as ways to process her grief, her views on her parents, and how she has chosen to live her life in the present. She talks about: Her changing views on her loss over the years How she processed grief through art and connection, and how this appears in her life today Losing a feeling of security when her mom passed away To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E8 · Tue, April 14, 2020
08: Finding Our Response to Grief
How should we respond to grief? In this episode, I interview Ken Breniman, a licensed yoga psychotherapist specializing in providing trauma-informed, bereavement-sensitive, thanatologically-inspired yoga therapy to individuals and groups in the Bay Area. Ken discusses his views on his mother’s journey, his experience of prolonged grief and connectedness, as well as his views on mortality. He talks about: His prolonged grief experience in his 20s The legacy his mom left and how that relates to his legacy Making meaning in life and spirituality To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E7 · Tue, March 31, 2020
07: Teachable Moments
Is there anything that can teach us about loss? Sara Karbeling, as part of a close family, discusses how her father’s death helped her family understand death, how she learned that death is a part of life, and how she chooses to maintain his spirit today. Sara talks about: The sudden loss of her father How her father’s loss taught her to help others deal with loss Keeping her dad’s memory alive through traditions To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Bonus · Tue, March 17, 2020
06: Best Friends
This is a bonus episode, and it deviates from the format of what I’ve been producing so far. I have been operating mostly on pause due to travel to France and Spain, as well as dealing with the general fatigue of jet lag and self-quarantine after. I recently heard about a close friend passing away from cancer. She is the daughter of Anne Marie, whose interview I published in February. In this episode, I talk about: My best friend from high school, Melissa. Our friendship and its lasting meaning for me. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E5 · Tue, March 03, 2020
05: Legacy-Minded and Future-Oriented
When someone passes, how do we honor their legacy? Through doing or by being? In this episode, I interview Dr. Haakon Faste, a design educator and innovation consultant. Dr. Faste discusses growing up with a father who encouraged him to be a maker and designer, as well as how that has shaped his outlook today as an educator. Dr. Faste talks about: His father’s perspective on education, design, and other interests. The experience of being with his dad during one of the last weeks of his life. The importance of preserving his father’s legacy in the way he lived. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S1 E4 · Tue, February 18, 2020
04: A Part of the Family
Does being adopted change our relationship to our parents? In this episode, I interview Anne Marie, a social worker, about the experience of losing her mother and father, and how being adopted fits into her experience. Anne Marie is my best friend’s mother. Her daughter is currently facing a scary battle with cancer, and she faces grief again. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
S-1 E2 · Tue, January 21, 2020
02: Never Alone
In our lives, what are the defining moments? How about who is in our life, our family or our friends? In this episode, I interview Benjamin Gunning, a leader at a global design firm who is also a nationally recognized philanthropic advisor, and Treasurer of the Board of Trustees at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, California. Benjamin discusses what it was like to lose his parents, undergo a long period of grief before loss, and grow closer to his family through it. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Tue, January 07, 2020
01: Our Energetic Connection
"Death is not a separation, especially energetic-wise." How do we stay connected after losing our loved ones? Ebony Carter, a yoga therapist and Assistant Director at the Healing WELL, talks about how she stays connected to her father, as well as the experience of losing her father, her father’s trauma, and how her grief has appeared in her life. Ebony talks about: - Her traumatic loss as well as her views on her father’s past trauma after becoming a yoga therapist - Parenting while knowing that life is short, as well as how close birth is to death - Feeling energetically close to her dad since he passed Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Android Devices | RSS Additional Resources: Ebony’s Instagram Niroga Institute The Healing WELL Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
Trailer · Fri, December 06, 2019
00: Why Grief? Why Now?
My goal for this podcast is to share stories about parent loss and grief, so that we, as a community of peers, can move through life with our grief. I know you’ll find that these stories are as much about life as they are about death. And, I hope you’re able to find a way to live with your grief by knowing you aren’t alone in your journey. Sarah Davis is a learning experience designer in the Bay Area who focuses on empathy and storytelling in learning design. She lost her father to cancer in 2016, and since then, has been exploring her relationship to loss, grief and mortality through hiking, spirituality, community, and writing. This episode covers her story, and why she chose to create a podcast on grief and parent loss. To learn more about the resources mentioned in this episode, visit the show notes . Connect with us on social media: Facebook Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.breathingwind.com
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