Episodes

  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E26 Expectations vs. Reality: The Grief No One Talks About

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E26 Expectations vs. Reality: The Grief No One Talks About
    May 12 2025

    Grieving Unmet Expectations: Navigating Life's Unexpected Turns

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, addresses the often-overlooked grief of unmet expectations. She delves into the pain of life's deviations from our plans, the societal pressures that exacerbate these feelings, and offers practical advice for coping and moving forward. Dr. Taylor shares personal experiences of her own life pivots and highlights the importance of acknowledging and grieving what never came to be. The episode emphasizes that while grieving non-death losses, it’s essential to mourn the versions of life that didn’t unfold and to write new, honest stories for the future. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their desires and timelines authentically, free from societal pressures.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:27 Understanding the Grief of Unmet Expectations

    02:07 Personal Story: Heather's Journey Through Grief

    05:36 Societal Pressures and Toxic Positivity

    07:08 Practical Steps to Navigate Unmet Expectations

    09:25 The Impact of Social Media on Grief

    10:10 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

    12:46 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 Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.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 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: S2E25 Mother's Day Series, For the Ones Mothering Through Infertility & Loss

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E25 Mother's Day Series, For the Ones Mothering Through Infertility & Loss
    May 8 2025

    Navigating Mother's Day Part 2: A Guide for Those Grieving Invisible Losses

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor addresses the unique challenges faced by individuals grieving on Mother's Day, particularly those dealing with infertility, miscarriage, or the loss of a child. This is part two of the Mother's Day series. Dr. Taylor offers compassionate strategies on coping ahead, setting emotional boundaries, and creating an aftercare plan. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and acknowledges the invisible grief often overlooked by society.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:26 Acknowledging Invisible Losses on Mother's Day

    01:24 Understanding the Invisible Grief of Childless Motherhood

    04:45 Coping Strategies for Mother's Day Weekend

    08:35 Emotional Boundaries and Self-Care on Mother's Day

    10:08 Aftercare: Navigating Grief Post-Mother's Day

    13:06 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 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: S2E24 Mother's Day Series, For the Ones Missing Their Mom on Mother's Day

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E24 Mother's Day Series, For the Ones Missing Their Mom on Mother's Day
    May 8 2025

    Navigating Mother's Day Amidst Grief: Part One

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, discusses the complexities and emotional challenges that Mother's Day can bring for those grieving the loss of a mother or a mother figure. Dr. Taylor provides practical strategies for self-care, emphasizes the validity of all types of grief, and offers support for both those grieving and their supporters. She stresses the importance of acknowledging one's unique grief and giving oneself permission to opt out of traditional celebrations if they feel too painful. This episode aims to create a compassionate space where grief is acknowledged and supported.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:26 Mother's Day: A Complex Emotion

    01:53 Acknowledging Different Forms of Grief

    05:54 Creating a Care Plan for Mother's Day

    09:35 Support for Grief Supporters

    10:03 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

    11:10 Resources and Final Words

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

    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 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
    12 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E23 The Unspoken Grief of Retirement: Redefining Purpose and Identity

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E23 The Unspoken Grief of Retirement: Redefining Purpose and Identity
    May 5 2025

    Navigating the Emotional Terrain of Retirement

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor explores the often overlooked grief associated with retirement. She delves into the identity shift and emotional fallout that can occur when leaving a career, whether planned or unexpected. Dr. Taylor shares personal anecdotes and client experiences to highlight the complexity of this life transition. She offers practical tips for redefining one's purpose and building a fulfilling new routine, emphasizing that it's normal to grieve this major change. The episode encourages listeners to give themselves permission to grieve, get curious about their new chapter, and redefine success on their own terms.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:26 The Emotional Impact of Retirement

    02:44 Personal Stories and Client Experiences

    06:00 Navigating the Identity Shift

    08:01 Practical Tips for a Fulfilling Retirement

    10:17 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 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: S2E22 Childless Not by Choice: Infertility Grief Through a Psychological Lens with Ahlia Kim, LMFT

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E22 Childless Not by Choice: Infertility Grief Through a Psychological Lens with Ahlia Kim, LMFT
    May 1 2025
    Navigating Infertility: Grief, Hope, and Support In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor speaks with Ahlia Kim, a licensed marriage family therapist specializing in infertility, about the grief tied to infertility and pregnancy loss. They discuss the emotional landscape of those struggling with infertility, the misunderstandings and stigmas surrounding it, and how it affects identity and family systems. Together, they offer insights into validating grief, setting boundaries, and balancing hope without succumbing to toxic positivity. Ahlia shares personal anecdotes, practical coping strategies, and upcoming projects, making this a supportive and informative conversation for both those experiencing infertility and their loved ones. 00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal 00:25 Meet Ahlia Kim: A Journey in Infertility Therapy 02:16 Understanding Infertility as a Form of Grief 04:43 Navigating Microaggressions and Cultural Stigma 10:17 Generational and Familial Impact of Infertility 15:04 Identity and Worldview Changes Due to Infertility 21:23 Honoring and Holding Space for Infertility Grief 28:38 Balancing Grief and Hope in the Infertility Journey 34:40 Supporting Loved Ones Through Infertility 40:00 Conclusion and Resources ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ahlia Atterbury-Kim is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Washington state, specializing in infertility and reproductive trauma. She’s passionate about helping clients navigate the deep emotional, relational, physical, and financial impacts of infertility, and supporting them through the profound worldview shifts that come with it. Ahlia has lived experience with fertility treatments herself, and in her own journey, she found resilience in integrating play—often through video games, Legos and floral design. As a therapist, she values medical advocacy, humor and creating space where both grief and hope are welcome. www.wellharbortherapy.com https://www.instagram.com/well_harbor_therapy/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahlia-kim-8111bb15a/https://www.instagram.com/well_harbor_therapy/ ---------------------------------------------------- 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 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
    41 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E21 Beyond Boxes: The Emotional Journey of Moving & Grief

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E21 Beyond Boxes: The Emotional Journey of Moving & Grief
    Apr 28 2025

    Navigating the Emotional Layers of Moving and Grief

    In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor explores the emotional complexities of moving. She emphasizes that relocating involves more than just physical changes; it's an emotional journey that often includes unexpected grief. Heather shares personal stories of her own moves, highlighting the significance of saying goodbye to meaningful spaces. She provides practical tips for honoring these transitions, such as creating a goodbye ritual and allowing oneself to grieve. The episode encourages listeners to acknowledge their emotions and take time to settle into new spaces, recognizing that grief and excitement can coexist.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:24 Understanding the Emotional Impact of Moving

    02:11 Heather's Personal Moving Stories

    06:00 Emotional Challenges of Packing

    07:06 Coping Strategies for Moving Grief

    11:22 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    13:45 Closing and Additional 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 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
    15 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E20 Grief Doesn't End-It Evolves: Supporting Yourself & Others Through Life's Losses with Christiane Drew

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E20 Grief Doesn't End-It Evolves: Supporting Yourself & Others Through Life's Losses with Christiane Drew
    Apr 24 2025
    Navigating the Complex Terrain of Grief with Chris Drew In this engaging conversation, life and mental health coach Chris Drew shares her insights on dealing with grief. Chris, who transitioned from a graphic designer to a coach, sheds light on the different facets of grief, whether from death or life transitions, and how it can manifest in various forms. The discussion covers practical approaches to processing emotions, the importance of acknowledging grief, and how to support grieving loved ones effectively. Chris emphasizes the need for a support system and offers valuable advice on handling grief-related emotions. This episode is a heartfelt and enlightening deep dive into understanding and managing grief, aimed at empowering listeners to be kind to themselves and others as they navigate these challenging times. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:44 Chris Drew's Background and Journey 02:30 Understanding Grief and Its Impact 08:01 Processing Emotions in Grief 09:58 Personal Stories and Coping Mechanisms 15:24 Acknowledging and Managing Grief 16:31 Different Types of Loss and Grief 16:45 Navigating Life Transitions and Grief 17:48 The Complexity of Grief and Loss 21:24 Supporting Others Through Grief 25:42 Practical Ways to Help the Grieving 28:28 Non-Death Related Grief 34:19 Final Thoughts and Resources ------------------------------------------------ Mother. Wife. Designer. Teacher. Coach. Chris(tiane) has been the support person to many people throughout her life. A positive, energetic and authentic woman, she has inspired people to embrace the unknown, pursue their dreams, and put themselves first. Having lived in four different countries, Chris knows the challenges to life’s transitions and has designed her life as she dreamed it. As a certified life coach from the Life Coach Institute and a certified holistic life, career, and executive coach from Goal Imagery Institute, she leverages her diverse experience to help people design their ideal lives, achieve personal growth, and overcome obstacles. Chris is also a certified NLP practitioner, a mental health coach with Lyra, and holds an PCC credential through ICF, International Coaching Federation. Throughout the years Chris has gained deep knowledge of how to work with the mind. She has over 1000 hours coaching clients to gain clarity of what they want, stop self-sabotage, master their emotions, reduce stress and anxiety, let go of fear and increase self-confidence. Chris’s philosophy is that it’s never too late to redesign your life and tap into your true power. She is committed to helping individuals unleash their full potential and live fulfilling lives. chris@christianedrew.com 717.406.8400 website: www.christianedrew.com http://www.instagram.com/christianedrewcoaching http://www.facebook.com/christianedrewcoaching https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianedrew/ --------------------------------------------------- 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 Music by The ...
    Show more Show less
    38 mins
  • Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E19 Coping With the Slow Goodbye: Understanding Anticipatory Grief

    Grief is the New Normal Podcast: S2E19 Coping With the Slow Goodbye: Understanding Anticipatory Grief
    Apr 21 2025

    Anticipatory Grief: Understanding and Coping Before the Loss

    In this episode of Grief is the New Normal, Dr. Heather Taylor explores the complexities of anticipatory grief, which occurs before an actual loss. She defines it as a real and valid form of grief that can be emotionally exhausting and often misunderstood. Through a personal story about her grandmother, Dr. Taylor illustrates how anticipatory grief can manifest and offers practical tools for coping. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging feelings, staying present, preparing for the future, and seeking support. Dr. Taylor advocates for normalizing conversations around anticipatory grief to provide better understanding and support for those experiencing it.

    00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

    00:27 Understanding Anticipatory Grief

    02:35 Story Time with Heather: Grandma's Journey

    08:56 Coping Strategies for Anticipatory Grief

    12:17 The Importance of Acknowledging Anticipatory Grief

    14:16 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 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
    15 mins
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