Transforming Grief, One Conversation at a Time

Hosted by Dr. Jessica Thomas, this episode features Elizabeth Coplan, a playwright and producer who reveals the powerful intersection of immersive theater and grief, and storytelling in navigating grief. Together, they explore how grief can be a dynamic, relational and creative process rather than a mere endpoint. Realizing the societal reluctance to discuss grief, Elizabeth turned to her passion...

In this episode Embodied Grief with Dr. Ann Saffi Biasetti and Dr. Jessica Thomas we discuss how grief can be stored in the body and the importance of somatic release for healing. The conversation covers the difference between stuck grief and the ongoing grieving process, emphasizing self-compassion and the integration of mind and body. Dr. Ann shares her personal journey and practical guidance fo...

In this episode Dr. Jessica Thomas is joined by Laura Musselman , Director of Development and Communications at the Prison Hospice Project , for a deeply moving conversation about compassion, dignity, and humanity at the end of life behind prison walls. As an end-of-life doula with a background in trauma support, Laura draws on her experience in both end-of-life care and prison programming to supp...

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Jessica Thomas speaks with Panu Pihkala about the intricate relationship between eco-grief, eco-anxiety, and spirituality. They explore personal journeys into nature, the historical context of ecological grief, and the importance of naming emotions. The discussion delves into the role of rituals in healing, the significance of mind mapping for emotional explo...

In this conversation, Dr. Jessica Thomas and Dr. Erin McCloskey delve into the intricate relationship between motherhood, grief, and identity. They explore how experiences of loss shape personal journeys and academic pursuits, particularly in the context of matrescence. The discussion highlights the importance of advocating for mental health support, the complexities of navigating grief while beco...

This is part one of a two-part series exploring the intersection of matrescence and grief. In this first episode, Jessica Thomas and systemic therapist Jackie Turner explore the concept of matrescence, the transformative journey of becoming a mother, and the many aspects of grief that surface. They discuss the emotional and psychological transitions involved, highlighting the importance of recogni...

In this insightful episode, Dr. Jessica Thomas and Ji Hyang delve into the profound themes of communal grief and collective healing. Theyexplore how acknowledging grief in a shared context can transform personal struggles into opportunities for growth and connection. Through poignant discussions, they highlight the importance of being present with grief to unlock the power of change and healing. J...

In this episode of 'Transforming Conversations in End of Life,' Jessica welcomes Dr. Sonya Richmond and Megan Williams from Compassion and Choices to discuss their journeys in end-of-life care and advocacy. Dr. Richmond shares her inspiration from a hospice nurse, emphasizing the importance of quality of life and patient advocacy. Megan Williams discusses her transition from education to end-of-li...

Dr. Lindsey Lerner , a clinical psychologist, licensed psilocybin facilitator, and death doula, offers a profound reflection on her work integrating psilocybin—the sacred medicine—into end-of-life care. In this conversation, Dr. Lerner shares her personal journey into the realm of death work, provides an insightful overview of the science behind psilocybin, and explores its transformative role in...