In this heartfelt episode of Our Dead Dads, host Nick Gaylord sits down with Faith Sage, an author, artist, and podcast host, to share her profound journey through grief and resilience. Faith recounts the heartbreaking loss of her stepdaughter Cassandra in a tragic car accident, followed years later by the devastating loss of her granddaughter Peyton in another accident. She discusses the emotional aftermath of these tragedies, the complexities of grief, and how she navigated the blame, despair, and guilt that rippled through her family. Faith also opens up about her unique experience as a stepmother, weaving her personal history into the broader themes of healing and family dynamics.

Faith reflects on the transformative power of storytelling, which she channels through her books and her own grief-focused podcast. She shares how writing her story became an essential part of her healing process, helping her move through what she calls the "nothingness" of grief into a mindset of purpose and hope. Faith also emphasizes the importance of embracing difficult emotions, letting them flow, and finding ways to honor loved ones’ memories through meaningful connections and action.

As the conversation unfolds, Nick and Faith explore the necessity of creating space for open, honest discussions about grief in a society that often avoids it. They highlight the strength found in community and how sharing one’s story can be both a deeply personal and profoundly healing act. This episode is a testament to the enduring power of love, loss, and the courage it takes to keep moving forward.

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What if losing a grandparent is a journey of unexpected gratitude and comfort? Join me and my incredible wife, Kim, as we take a heartfelt journey honoring the life of my beloved grandmother, Jeanne Harris. We share our reflections on her remarkable legacy, from her nearly 70-year marriage to my grandfather, Stanley, to the cherished memories that continue to shape our lives. This episode offers a comforting connection for anyone navigating the unique grief that comes with bidding farewell to a cherished grandparent.

Take a nostalgic trip with us to an unforgettable lunch at Charlie's Restaurant on Long Island, a visit marked by Grammy's vibrant personality just before the world changed in 2020. Experience the warmth of family gatherings and the enduring influence of Grammy and Grampy, even through the challenges of Grammy's battle with COVID-19. We dive into the quirks of family traditions and the heartwarming anecdotes from childhood that highlight the strength of family bonds and the joy found in shared memories.

Through tales of WLNG radio playing from Grammy and Grampy's bathroom and the chaotic joy of Christmas gatherings, we celebrate the unique touches that made our family home so special. We express gratitude for the compassionate hospice care that supported Grammy in her final years, sharing stories of resilience and healing. This episode invites listeners to embrace their own stories of loss and love, and to find solace in the enduring power of family connections.

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What if the path through grief could forge an unbreakable community bond? Join us as we unravel the compelling life journey of Tony Lynch, an international best-selling author and grief advocate, who has turned personal turmoil into a beacon of hope for others. From academic triumphs to the depths of prison, Tony's experiences not only highlight the resilience of the human spirit but also the power of shared stories in healing. Throughout our conversation, Tony underscores the importance of normalizing discussions around grief and introduces his latest project—a magazine dedicated to extending his mission of support and healing.

This episode also sheds light on the often silent struggle of men's mental health, particularly in the wake of COVID-19’s challenges. Tony's candid observations about humor as a coping mechanism reveal a side of grief that is rarely discussed yet deeply human. As we prepare to reintroduce weekly panel discussions, we commit to ensuring no aspect of grief and mental health goes unnoticed. Together, we explore the significance of steadfast companionship and active support for those in crisis, emphasizing the powerful message that "you are enough."

Tony’s narrative is more than a personal story—it's a call to action. Learn how he founded "Memories of Us," a nonprofit dedicated to men's grief support, and the journey to becoming a keystone of community growth. Through personal anecdotes, we touch upon the essence of mentorship, continuous learning, and the importance of holding space for others. As Tony shares his transformative experiences, he challenges us all to embrace our unique gifts and leave a lasting legacy of resilience and authenticity.


TONY'S LINKS:

Website: https://www.mensgriefsupport.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tony.lynch.188
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mensgriefsupport/

GRIEF LET'S TALK ABOUT IT PODCAST:

https://www.youtube.com/@griefletstalkaboutit

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Courtney Moore shares her heartfelt journey through a complicated relationship with her father, delving into the challenges of navigating grief after losing him to pancreatic cancer. The episode explores acceptance, healing, and the profound impact of their dynamics on her life.

• Introduction and background of Courtney’s family
• Childhood marked by loss and complex relationships
• Reflections on leaving home at 15 for independence
• The importance of understanding family dynamics
• Journey of returning to a dying parent and reconciliation
• Acceptance as key to healing from complex relationships
• Creating space for collective grief and understanding


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To join the live interview with Justin Shepherd on January 8th, 2025 @ 3:00 pm EST, follow Our Dead Dads Podcast on YouTube here:

https://www.youtube.com/@ourdeaddadspod

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This episode is a heartfelt exploration of family traditions, love, and loss during the holiday season. We share stories that reflect on cherished memories and lighthearted moments, offering insights on how to navigate grief while celebrating togetherness and honor loved ones.

• Reflection on the past year and the journey of Our Dead Dads podcast
• Introduction to guests sharing holiday memories
• Sharing laughter through Christmas traditions and family tales
• The bittersweet nature of holiday celebrations amidst grief
• Exploring how traditions evolve and new memories form
• Importance of storytelling in remembering lost loved ones
• Encouragement to create new traditions and reflect on personal stories

THE BEST STEAK BUTTER SAUCE YOU WILL EVER TRY: https://pin.it/6hsr9X7op

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What would you do if you stumbled upon unclaimed funds linked to a loved one who's passed on? Join us as we navigate this unexpected discovery, sharing the humorous and sometimes frustrating journey of claiming these hidden assets. We also find ourselves in the midst of holiday nostalgia, reminiscing about the warmth of family gatherings and the mesmerizing world of a Lionel train collection that consumed our childhood winters. From bustling celebrations in Greenport to quieter moments, our memories reflect the joyful chaos and cherished traditions that shaped our lives.

Ever wondered what your last day on earth might look like? We explore this intriguing question, imagining adventures with loved ones and the joy of spontaneous kindness. Along the way, we share heartfelt stories about our loyal pets, Alex and Suki, whose presence brought so much love and laughter. Our conversation veers into the realm of dream destinations as we fantasize about secret trips and the allure of places like New York City, Hawaii, and Greece. With humor and warmth, we paint a picture of cherished moments and future aspirations.

Behind the scenes, our podcast journey unfolds with tales of technical mishaps and the joy of listener engagement. As we celebrate our milestones, we reflect on the universal experience of grief, inviting all to find solace in shared stories and our supportive community. With exciting plans for 2025, including the debut of the Our Dead Dads Merch Store and my first live interview with Justin Shepherd (known to his followers as @justinontiktok and @justinthenickofcrime), we're committed to creating a space where grief is met with understanding and kindness. Join us as we embrace the healing power of connection and story-telling, ensuring no one feels alone in their journey through loss.

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What happens when a childhood friendship is woven with shared grief and cherished memories? Join us on a heartfelt journey with my dear friend, John Gerst, as we navigate the profound impact of losing his father at a young age. Reflecting on our Boy Scouts days, we explore how those formative years shaped us and delve into the emotions stirred by John's unexpected encounter with unresolved grief during a surprise trip back to his childhood home. Together, we uncover the bittersweet feelings of missing out on an adult relationship with a parent and the powerful role of community and shared stories in healing.

Our conversation also shines a light on the enduring connections formed through shared values and family stories. We'll discuss how these principles are passed down through generations, creating a tapestry of memories that influence our lives today. From recounting my son Charles's encounters with the values of our past to the humorous contrasts between his modern experiences and my own upbringing, we paint a vivid picture of how different generations navigate the complexities of life. This episode is a testament to the significance of acknowledging the legacies left by our father figures and the sense of belonging they instill.

Finally, we explore the evolving dynamics of community on Long Island and how those experiences have shaped our understanding of legacy and identity. Through personal anecdotes of Long Island's humid summers and the camaraderie of the Boy Scouts, we reflect on the invaluable lessons imparted by those larger-than-life father figures. As we reminisce about the lessons learned, both from present and absent fathers, we emphasize the importance of forgiveness and understanding, urging listeners to embrace their own journeys with grace and acceptance. This episode promises a rich tapestry of memories, reflections, and inspiration for anyone seeking to honor their roots while forging their path.

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When you've faced profound loss at a young age, how do you navigate the complexities of grief, trauma, and personal growth? Eric Piragnoli joins us to unpack his lifelong journey after losing his father at just six years old. From unprocessed emotions to the healing power of humor, Eric shares how he found solace and strength in community support, illustrated by the unique bond formed through an ongoing English muffin pizza thread with friends. This episode is a reminder that while time may not heal all wounds, a shared understanding can create a safe haven for those feeling isolated in their sorrow.

Our conversation also delves into the intricate web of family dynamics, exploring how Eric reconciled the presence of his stepfather with the cherished memory of his biological father. Through stories of divorce, reconciliation, and the anticipation of a grandchild, we celebrate new beginnings and reflect on the cyclical nature of life. Eric’s candid reflections on fatherhood and personal growth emphasize the importance of confronting long-standing grief and emotional triggers to build stronger family bonds.

Laughter, vulnerability, and heartfelt discussions await as we explore the necessity of acknowledging and processing emotions to prevent future upheaval. We touch on the benefits of seeking professional help and fostering a supportive community, encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability and emotional growth. As we weave through tales of humor and introspection, this episode invites you to join a compassionate community that champions healing and personal development.

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