This is your go-to Podcast, where we help parents navigate the complexities of family life. Hosted by Ali Kessler of Greyson’s Choice, we’ll cover everything from understanding domestic violence to navigating the legal system, finding the right therapists, life hacks, family law, mental health, custody battles, and how to protect children in dangerous situations.

host Ali Kessler speaks with Margo Fowkes about her journey through grief after losing her son to brain cancer. They discuss the complexities of grief, the importance of community support, and how to navigate work while grieving. Margo shares insights from her book, Leaning Through Loss, and the creation of Salt Water, an online community for those experiencing loss. The conversation highlights the nuances of grief, the judgments faced by those grieving, and the significance of honoring memories and milestones, particularly during the holiday season. They discuss the importance of recognizing signs from lost loved ones, the challenges of navigating grief during joyful times, and the significance of incorporating memories into celebrations. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on grief, the value of community support, and the need for advocacy in the face of loss. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of self-compassion and the unique ways individuals cope with their grief.

takeaways

· Grief is a personal journey that varies for everyone.

· Creating a supportive community is essential for healing.

· Navigating work while grieving can be challenging.

· Loss can come in many forms, and all are valid.

· People often don't know how to support those who are grieving.

· The anniversary of a loss can bring unexpected emotions.

· Nature can be a source of comfort and reflection.

About Margo M. Fowkes

Margo Fowkes is the founder and president of OnTarget Consulting Inc., a firm specializing in helping organizations and individuals act strategically, improve performance, and achieve their business goals. Margo works with clients to solve problems of productivity, morale, and innovation. Author of Leading Through Loss: How To Navigate Grief At Work, Margo also coaches leaders on how to create a more compassionate culture by acknowledging and speaking openly about grief and loss in the workplace.

Before founding her consulting firm in 1994, Margo held positions in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. A former budget analyst for the United States Budget Committee, she has worked for all levels of government—federal, state, and local. She has also worked with a range of businesses, from Fortune 500 companies to sole proprietorships.

Following the death of her son Jimmy in 2014 after an eight-year battle with brain cancer, Margo launched Salt Water, an online community that provides a safe harbor for those who have lost someone dear to them – a child, parent, spouse, sibling, close friend, or pet. Inspired by Jimmy’s determination to live a rich, full life despite his circumstances, the blog posts and resources focus on healing and building a new life in the aftermath of a devastating loss.

About Ali Kessler

Ali Kessler is a writer, marketing professional, passionate parent advocate, and founder of Greyson’s Choice, a 501(c)(3) created to raise awareness about the risk of domestic abuse on children....