Episodes

  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E34 Not Everyone Brings Casseroles, How to Support Someone Who's Grieving

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E34 Not Everyone Brings Casseroles, How to Support Someone Who's Grieving
    Jun 9 2025

    Supporting Grievers: How to Show Up and Stay Present

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, focuses on how to support someone who is grieving. She explains the three roles of support: doers, listeners, and respite friends, emphasizing the need for sustainable and specific support. Dr. Taylor offers practical tips on how to stay engaged over the long term, the importance of marking significant dates, and what actions to avoid, such as offering toxic positivity or disappearing when it gets challenging. She concludes by encouraging listeners to stay present and offer genuine, consistent support to those in grief.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:26 Understanding the Support Crew

    01:04 The Three Types of Support

    06:39 Effective Long-Term Support Strategies

    10:12 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    13:22 Final Thoughts and Resources

    --------------------------------------------

    Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

    Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

    No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    www.linkedin.com/in/heather-taylor-psyd-licensed-psychologist

    Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

    Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

    Dive deeper into your grief support skills with the Professional Grief Collective. This exclusive membership offers targeted training and resources for clinicians and coaches who are ready to elevate their practice. Don’t miss out—join our community today and start transforming the way you support those in grief. Check out the details in our show notes or visit https://bit.ly/GriefClinicianMembership

    -------------------------------------

    Opening & Closing Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    16 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E33 The Grief You Don’t See: Healing After Sexual Assault With Kristina Spurlock, LMHC, on EMDR, justice, and rebuilding identity after trauma.

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E33 The Grief You Don’t See: Healing After Sexual Assault With Kristina Spurlock, LMHC, on EMDR, justice, and rebuilding identity after trauma.
    Jun 5 2025
    *Trigger Warning: Sensitive Content Ahead In this episode of Grief is the New Normal (Episode 33), we speak with Kristina Spurlock, LMHC, about the deeply personal and painful realities of sexual assault trauma and grief. Please be advised: This conversation includes discussions of sexual violence, emotional trauma, and the grieving process that may be activating for some listeners. If you are currently in crisis or need support, we encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional or call a crisis line in your area. Your mental and emotional safety comes first. Please listen with care. ----------------------------------- Understanding Grief and Trauma with Kristina Spurlock In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor welcomes therapist Kristina Spurlock, LMHC to discuss grief and trauma. Kristina shares insights about her journey into therapy, her experience with EMDR, and her work with sexual assault survivors. The conversation covers the complexities of grief, including the unacknowledged grief over outcomes that didn’t materialize and the importance of addressing trauma responses. The episode also delves into the influence of societal structures on grief and trauma and emphasizes the significance of supportive therapeutic relationships. This episode offers a comprehensive look at how to navigate the layered experiences of grief and trauma, providing valuable insights for both clinicians and those personally affected. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:26 Meet Kristina Spurlock: Trauma Specialist 00:52 Kristina's Journey into Therapy 07:15 Understanding Trauma Responses 09:54 Navigating the Legal System as a Survivor 18:28 The Importance of Consent Education 27:12 Understanding Emotional Responses from Childhood Trauma 29:26 Exploring EMDR and Grief Processing 32:01 The Nuances of Grief in Therapy 38:51 The Impact of Political and Social Context on Grief 42:11 Final Thoughts and Takeaways on Grief and Therapy ----------------------------------------------------------- Kristina Spurlock, LMHC is an EMDR therapist who has been helping clients process trauma since 2016. She has worked in community mental health, and hospitals, and currently owns her private practice called Health Insight Counseling. She specializes in adult clients who have experienced sexual assault trauma, first responder trauma, dissociation, and childhood trauma. Find her on instagram at @Healthinsightcounseling ------------------------------------------------------------ Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives. Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone. No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through. https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com hello@griefisthenewnormal.com www.linkedin.com/in/heather-taylor-psyd-licensed-psychologist Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language. Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX Dive deeper into your grief support skills with the Professional Grief Collective. This exclusive membership offers targeted training and resources for clinicians and coaches who are ready to elevate their practice. Don’t miss out—join our community today and start transforming the way you support those in grief. Check out the details in our show notes or visit https://bit.ly/GriefClinicianMembership ------------------------------------- Opening & Closing Music by The Dadicorns Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor All Rights Reserved. This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
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    51 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E32 The Politics of Grief: How We Mourn While Fighting Back

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E32 The Politics of Grief: How We Mourn While Fighting Back
    Jun 2 2025

    Collective Grief: Navigating Pain in a Troubled World

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor discusses the concept of collective grief, highlighting the emotional toll of societal and systemic issues, especially on marginalized communities, amid political and social upheavals. She explains how grief manifests in various forms, such as burnout, rage, and emotional numbness, and emphasizes the importance of naming and acknowledging this grief. Dr. Taylor provides practical steps for managing these overwhelming feelings, such as setting boundaries, expressing emotions safely, and finding supportive communities. She encourages listeners to recognize their grief, protect their well-being, and remain hopeful amid adversities.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:35 Current Events and Collective Grief

    01:18 Understanding Systemic Grief

    04:34 Recognizing and Naming Grief

    05:24 Coping Strategies for Grief

    07:29 Finding Hope Amidst Grief

    08:57 Conclusion and Resources

    ---------------------------------------------

    Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

    Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

    No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    www.linkedin.com/in/heather-taylor-psyd-licensed-psychologist

    Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

    Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

    Dive deeper into your grief support skills with the Professional Grief Collective. This exclusive membership offers targeted training and resources for clinicians and coaches who are ready to elevate their practice. Don’t miss out—join our community today and start transforming the way you support those in grief. Check out the details in our show notes or visit https://bit.ly/GriefClinicianMembership

    -------------------------------------

    Opening & Closing Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    11 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E31 How Do You Heal What Was Never Held? Perinatal Loss with Caitlin Silverstein, LCSW

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E31 How Do You Heal What Was Never Held? Perinatal Loss with Caitlin Silverstein, LCSW
    May 29 2025
    Navigating Perinatal Loss: A Deep Dive with Caitlin Silverstein, LCSW In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal', Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, converses with Caitlin Silverstein, LCSW, on her work and experiences with perinatal loss. Caitlin shares her journey from working with spinal cord injury patients in a busy NYC hospital to specializing in maternal mental health. The conversation delves into the complexities of perinatal grief, often an under-recognized form of grief involving hopes and milestones never reached. Caitlin discusses strategies to help families process their grief, including creating memory spaces and integrating grief into daily life. They also explore the societal challenges of perinatal loss and the critical role of communication and ritual in honoring lost babies. For those supporting someone through such a loss, this episode offers valuable insights and strategies to help navigate this complicated and intense type of grief. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:28 Meet Caitlyn Silverstein: A Journey in Maternal Mental Health 03:06 Understanding Perinatal Loss and Disenfranchised Grief 06:44 Navigating Grief: Strategies and Support 11:24 Empowering Grievers: Reclaiming the Narrative 15:24 Emotional and Physical Reactions to Perinatal Loss 20:09 Understanding Grief: Moving Through, Not Moving On 20:19 The Integration of Grief 22:19 Visualizing Grief: The Paper and Circle Analogy 25:09 The Importance of Naming and Integrating Grief 27:53 Grieving as a Couple and Family 30:39 Rituals and Practices to Honor Grief 32:25 Using Social Media for Grief Support 34:18 Final Thoughts and Resources --------------------------------------- Caitlin Silverstein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of The Nurtured Bloom Therapy LCSW, P.C., specializing in pregnancy, postpartum, grief, and women’s mental health. Based in Long Island, NY, Caitlin brings her years of bedside experience from major New York hospitals into her boutique private practice, offering a deeply compassionate space for women facing the heartbreak of perinatal loss, the challenges of high-risk pregnancies, the identity shifts of motherhood, and the silent grief that goes unseen. She holds advanced certifications including Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (Evergreen Certifications), International Partnership for Perinatal Excellence Certified Provider (Star Legacy Foundation), and Postpartum Mental Health Certification (Postpartum Support International). Connect with Caitlin: Instagram: @caitlinsilversteinlcsw Website: www.caitlinsilversteinlcsw.com Resources: https://perinatalexcellence.org/ https://rtzhope.org/ https://postpartum.net/ https://whatsyourgrief.com/growing-around-grief/ ------------------------------------------------ Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives. Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone. No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through. https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com hello@griefisthenewnormal.com www.linkedin.com/in/heather-taylor-psyd-licensed-psychologist Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language. Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX Dive deeper into your grief support skills with the Professional Grief Collective. This exclusive membership offers targeted training and resources for clinicians and coaches who are ready to elevate their practice. Don’t miss out—join our community today and start transforming the way you support those in grief. Check out the details in our show notes or visit https://bit.ly/GriefClinicianMembership ------------------------------------- Opening & Closing Music by The Dadicorns Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor All Rights Reserved. This...
    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E30 After the Kids Leave, The Grief No One Talks About

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E30 After the Kids Leave, The Grief No One Talks About
    May 27 2025

    Navigating Empty Nest Grief: Identity, Transitions, and Self-Compassion

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, delves into the complex emotions surrounding the empty nest transition. Dr. Taylor discusses the profound grief that can accompany this phase of life, even though it's often viewed as a joyful milestone. She addresses how parents, especially those who have been primary caregivers, can experience a seismic shift in their identity, sense of purpose, and daily routines. The episode emphasizes the importance of honoring these feelings of grief, taking time to reconnect with personal desires, and creating new routines. Dr. Taylor shares insights from her clinical experience, offering practical strategies for navigating this new chapter with compassion and support. Listeners are encouraged to feel their emotions, name their grief, and avoid rushing through the transition. The episode closes with an invitation to write letters to past or future selves as a way to reflect on and honor their journey.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:26 Understanding Empty Nest Grief

    02:44 Client Story: Preparing for the Empty Nest

    06:15 Coping Strategies for Empty Nest Grief

    08:34 Navigating Relationship Dynamics Post-Empty Nest

    09:44 Conclusion and Gentle Invitation

    12:24 Resources and Final Thoughts

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

    Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

    No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    www.linkedin.com/in/heather-taylor-psyd-licensed-psychologist

    Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

    Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

    Dive deeper into your grief support skills with the Professional Grief Collective. This exclusive membership offers targeted training and resources for clinicians and coaches who are ready to elevate their practice. Don’t miss out—join our community today and start transforming the way you support those in grief. Check out the details in our show notes or visit https://bit.ly/GriefClinicianMembership

    -------------------------------------

    Opening & Closing Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    14 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E29 The Bridge Through Grief: A Lifespan Approach with Moira Khan of Griefspan

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E29 The Bridge Through Grief: A Lifespan Approach with Moira Khan of Griefspan
    May 22 2025
    Navigating Grief: A Conversation with Moira Khan of Griefspan In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, welcomes Moira Khan, an international grief educator and coach. Moira shares her personal journey through multiple losses, including the sudden death of her mother, brother, and father, and discusses her passion for grief education and coaching. She also explores how her grief led to the creation of Griefspan, a community dedicated to supporting those in grief. The episode delves into the importance of being kind to oneself during the grieving process, the significance of community support, and the need for education on how to respond to others' grief. Moira also touches on the physical aspects of grief, relating her experiences with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome to the wider context of invisible ailments and the importance of understanding grief in a holistic manner. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:27 Meet Moira Khan: International Grief Educator and Coach 00:58 Moira's Personal Journey with Grief 01:54 The Loss of Moira's Mother 03:27 Navigating Pregnancy and Grief 05:58 The Loss of Moira's Brother 08:23 The Loss of Moira's Father 15:22 Creating Griefspan: A Tribute to Family 17:53 The Importance of Grief Education and Support 19:39 The Growing Grief Community 22:00 Reflecting on Personal Grief 23:10 Grief Education and Awareness 26:08 Cultural Perspectives on Grief 28:21 The Power of Sharing Stories 29:20 Understanding the Grieving Brain 31:05 Kindness and Self-Compassion in Grief 37:39 Physical Ailments and Grief 40:42 Final Thoughts and Resources ------------------------------------------------------------ Moira is the Owner and Founder of GriefSpan. After the loss of her parents and brother, Moira became a Certified Grief Educator and Coach. She now helps and supports grieving individuals, and groups all over the world through the most heartbreaking times of their lives. Grief Education enables grievers to process their grief in a safe space, while learning more about best practices and tools to help navigate the journey they never asked to be on. Moira has a large community and network on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/griefspaneducation?igsh=ejA5b3ZvZTFsanF3&utm_source=qr and can also be found at https://www.griefspan.com/ ----------------------------------------------- Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives. Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone. No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through. https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com hello@griefisthenewnormal.com www.linkedin.com/in/heather-taylor-psyd-licensed-psychologist Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language. Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX Dive deeper into your grief support skills with the Professional Grief Collective. This exclusive membership offers targeted training and resources for clinicians and coaches who are ready to elevate their practice. Don’t miss out—join our community today and start transforming the way you support those in grief. Check out the details in our show notes or visit https://bit.ly/GriefClinicianMembership ------------------------------------- Opening & Closing Music by The Dadicorns Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor All Rights Reserved. This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
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    43 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E28 Acknowledging the Unacknowledged: Navigating Disenfranchised Grief

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E28 Acknowledging the Unacknowledged: Navigating Disenfranchised Grief
    May 19 2025

    Understanding and Validating Disenfranchised Grief

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, addresses the topic of disenfranchised grief. This type of grief is often unrecognized or dismissed by society, which makes it feel particularly isolating. Dr. Taylor explains what disenfranchised grief is, provides examples including pet loss, estranged family, and non-traditional relationships, and offers advice on how to validate your own grief even when others do not. She also shares tips for supporting others who are experiencing disenfranchised grief and emphasizes the importance of finding supportive communities, whether in-person or online. The episode concludes with invitations to create personal rituals and join grief-informed spaces to aid the healing process.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:26 Understanding Disenfranchised Grief

    01:28 Examples of Disenfranchised Grief

    02:04 Navigating Complicated Grief

    05:00 Validating Your Grief 08:58 Reclaiming Your Grief Space

    10:13 Supporting Others in Their Grief

    11:12 Final Thoughts and Resources

    ------------------------------------------------------

    Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

    Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

    No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

    https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

    hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

    www.linkedin.com/in/heather-taylor-psyd-licensed-psychologist

    Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

    Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

    Dive deeper into your grief support skills with the Professional Grief Collective. This exclusive membership offers targeted training and resources for clinicians and coaches who are ready to elevate their practice. Don’t miss out—join our community today and start transforming the way you support those in grief. Check out the details in our show notes or visit https://bit.ly/GriefClinicianMembership

    -------------------------------------

    Opening & Closing Music by The Dadicorns

    Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

    All Rights Reserved.

    This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.
    Show More Show Less
    13 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E27 Modern Loss and the Long Arc of Grief: Rebecca Soffer on What It Really Means to Live with Loss

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E27 Modern Loss and the Long Arc of Grief: Rebecca Soffer on What It Really Means to Live with Loss
    May 15 2025
    Grief, Humor, and the Long Arc of Healing: A Conversation with Rebecca Soffer of Modern Loss In this episode of Grief is the New Normal, Dr. Heather Taylor talks with Rebecca Soffer, the co-founder of the Modern Loss community. Rebecca shares her personal journey through grief after the loss of her parents and the inception of Modern Loss. They discuss the integration of humor in grief, the importance of community, and the inadequacies in grief training for professionals. Rebecca emphasizes the value of creating personal rituals, setting boundaries, and the necessity of levity and joy amidst mourning. The conversation also touches on navigating grief-triggered days like Mother's Day and the benefits of 'going micro' to manage overwhelming emotions. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:25 Meet Rebecca Soffer: Founder of Modern Loss 00:38 Rebecca's Personal Journey with Grief 02:32 The Birth of Modern Loss 04:33 Navigating Grief and Loss 06:01 Challenges in Grief Therapy and Training 07:26 Mother's Day and Complicated Grief 18:00 The Importance of Community in Grief 19:36 Humor and Levity in Grief 24:12 Embracing the Grief Wave 24:37 Navigating Through Grief with Resources 24:58 The Bear Hunt Analogy 25:50 Building a Support System 26:41 Going Micro: Small Steps Through Grief 28:16 Mindfulness Techniques for Grief 29:28 Handling Trigger Days 30:48 Creating Coping Plans 31:46 Writing About Grief 32:00 Modern Loss Books 33:38 Staying Connected After Loss 35:24 Communing with the World 36:32 Teaching Others How to Support You 38:45 Final Takeaways on Grief 40:48 Upcoming Projects and Resources 42:58 Conclusion and Call to Action ------------------------------------------------ Rebecca Soffer is cofounder of Modern Loss, which offers creative, meaningful and encouraging content and community addressing the long arc of grief. She is also the bestselling author of The Modern Loss Handbook: An Interactive Guide to Moving Through Grief and Building Your Resilience (Running Press, 2022), which Gayle King named a favorite book of the year, and coauthor of Modern Loss: Candid Conversation About Grief. Beginners Welcome (Harper Wave, 2018), which The Strategist named a best book on loss for a younger generation. Rebecca also writes the Modern Loss newsletter, which is one of Substack's top Health & Wellness publications and shares intimate interviews with notable figures on their experiences with loss, including actors Cynthia Nixon, Jessica Williams, and Rachel Bloom; poet Saeed Jones; comedians Jena Friedman and Alyssa Limperis; transgender rights activist Raquel Willis; stylist Stacy London; and many more. She hosts the monthly “Light After Loss” Facebook series for 1800Flowers.com and is an expert contributor for Help Texts. Rebecca has partnered with several organizations developing tailored projects that promote their mission, including the Seleni Institute (raising awareness around perinatal mental health support) and the Parmenter Foundation (developing their UGrieve online grief awareness training course for undergraduates and graduate students). Rebecca is a Peabody Award-winning former producer for The Colbert Report and an alumna of Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism. Social media handles: Instagram: @modernloss and @rebeccasoffer Facebook: @modernloss TikTok: @modernloss LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccasoffer/ ---------------------------------------------- Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives. Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone. No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through. https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com hello@griefisthenewnormal.com www.linkedin.com/in/heather-taylor-psyd-licensed-psychologist Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language. Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically ...
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    44 mins