On MotherGrief, we delve into how all forms of grief and loss—whether clear-cut or ambiguous—shape and transform our lives. We explore the profound act of grieving well, offering a space to reframe and redefine the grief experiences of mothers.Through grief literacy, grief education, and simply allowing ourselves to inhabit the sacred space of grief, this show serves maidens, mothers, and wise women alike—those who create, nurture, and hold life on this earth.Here, you will find a place to exhale, to be witnessed in your sorrow, and to be acknowledged in your hardships. This is a sanctuary for grievers, where your experience is honored and your pain is recognized.Grief has woven itself into the fabric of Sarah St. John’s life in profound and unexpected ways—from the sudden, heartbreaking loss of her two younger brothers, to the silent sorrows of multiple miscarriages. The more elusive forms of grief have also left their mark: the loss of safety following illness, and the subtle, yet powerful, shifts in identity as she journeyed through matrescence.Sarah believes that grief carries deep wisdom, and through MotherGrief, she hopes to guide you in discovering the golden threads nestled within the clouds of sorrow. We will turn to nature as our teacher, using it as a metaphor for the life-death cycle, always reminding you that grief is not something to &#34;heal&#34; or eliminate. Grief is love turned inside out—something to plant, nurture, move through, harvest, and allow to compost into new life. This is MotherGrief.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/5/12/16/de26d71f-385b-4361-911e-06290be25494_mg-master_audio-ep24-phoebe_martelli.mp3

Trigger Warning:This episode contains discussions of miscarriage, pregnancy loss, near-death experiences, illness, and identity grief. Listener discretion is advised, especially for those currently navigating pregnancy, recent loss, or sensitive to themes of physical and emotional trauma. Summary: In this season finale episode, Sarah welcomes energetic healer and dear friend Phoebe Martelli to explore the profound intersections of miscarriage, identity, healing, and spiritual awakening. Together, they reflect on the transformative experiences of loss and rebirth—both personal and collective—and how spirit babies can serve as catalysts for deep healing, purpose, and becoming.Phoebe shares her journey through miscarriage, her awakening to energy work, and how spirit babies have guided her path. Sarah and Phoebe revisit their work together, the creation of Poppy, and the sacred, sometimes chaotic unfolding of life, grief, and motherhood. They offer a deeply moving conversation on letting go of old identities, welcoming new visions, and how the spirit world continuously shapes our lives. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>Phoebe’s miscarriage as a spiritual awakening and catalyst for healing</li><li>The role of spirit babies in reshaping identity, gifts, and life purpose</li><li>How loss can lead to energetic and physical completion</li><li>Sarah’s journey through mold illness, energetic healing, and the creation of Poppy</li><li>The sacred unraveling and reinvention of identity in motherhood</li><li>A guided visualization for releasing old selves and stepping into who you&#39;re becoming</li><li>Energetic updates on spirit babies, collective shifts, and the future of conscious parenting</li></ul> Connect with Phoebe:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hello.phoebemarie/" rel="nofollow">@hello.phoebemarie</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Spirit Babies, Loss, and the Path to Becoming with Phoebe Martelli

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Trigger Warning:This episode contains discussions of parental death, terminal illness, and anticipatory grief. Please take care while listening, especially if you are in the midst of fresh grief or navigating similar losses. In this deeply heartfelt conversation, Sarah welcomes Tara Accardo, grief and transformational life coach, and host of the Life With Grief podcast. Tara shares her story of devastating loss—losing both parents to cancer within six months, followed by a traumatic birth experience—and how she slowly began to rebuild her sense of self and safety through it all. Together, Sarah and Tara explore the weight of mothering without your own mother, the experience of becoming an adult orphan, and the layered grief that surfaces during major milestones like childbirth and parenting. With honesty and grace, Tara offers insight into how we can begin to feel empowered again after a profound loss—without bypassing the pain. Whether you&#39;re early in grief or years down the path, this episode offers a compassionate reflection on what it means to hold both love and sorrow as lifelong companions. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>How grief changes your identity and internal landscape</li><li>The loneliness of becoming an adult orphan and the redefinition of safety</li><li>Moving through the “what ifs” and the self-blame that often accompanies loss</li><li>What it means to keep a parent’s memory alive through parenting</li><li>How loss reshapes the way we love, trust, and show up in the world</li></ul> Connect with Tara:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lossesbecomegains" rel="nofollow">@lossesbecomegains</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lifewithgriefpodcast/" rel="nofollow">@lifewithgriefpodcast</a></li><li>Website: <a href="https://lossesbecomegains.com/" rel="nofollow">lossesbecomegains.com</a></li><li>Podcast: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-with-grief-podcast/id1688812587" rel="nofollow">Life With Grief Podcast</a></li><li>TikTok: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@lifewithgriefpodcast" rel="nofollow">@lifewithgriefpodcast</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Parenting After Parental Loss with Tara Accardo

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Today, Sarah offers listeners another tender and deeply personal episode. She opens her heart to share the grief of losing her two brothers, Jordan and Joe, and how their absence continues to shape her experience of motherhood. She reflects on what it means to mother without the presence of the very people who helped shape her and and how that loss quietly echoes through everyday moments. This episode holds space for all who have experienced sibling loss and are now raising children while carrying that layered grief. Whether your loss is fresh or decades old, Sarah’s reflections are a balm for the quiet ache you might carry. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>How Sarah’s parenting is shaped by unresolved grief and lingering questions</li><li>The longing and wondering of who her brothers would’ve been as uncles</li><li>The visible and invisible ways grief shows up in her daughters’ lives</li><li>The profound truth that we can grieve people we never met</li><li>Creating a legacy through storytelling, rituals, and remembrance</li><li>Navigating the duality of grief and joy in motherhood</li></ul> Reflection Prompts from Sarah:<ul><li>What parts of your siblings do you wish your child could know?</li><li>How has their loss shaped who you are as a mother?</li><li>Is there a story or memory you want to share today to keep them alive?</li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Mothering after Sibling Loss

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In this tender and intimate solo episode, Sarah explores a form of grief many mothers feel but don’t always have language for: anticipatory grief—the ache that arrives before anything is lost. From the sweetness of bedtime battles to the fleeting mispronunciations of toddlerhood, Sarah invites us into the quiet, sacred spaces where grief and joy co-exist. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>The invisible grief mothers carry for the moments already slipping away</li><li>What anticipatory grief feels like in the body and nervous system</li><li>The ache of watching our children grow, even as we celebrate their milestones</li><li>Why naming and moving with grief is an act of deep love</li><li>Nature as a mirror for our own seasonal letting go</li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Anticipatory Grief in Motherhood

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In this solo episode, Sarah offers a space for you to simply be with your grief. Through guided breathwork and somatic practices, she invites you to acknowledge the weight of loss, to allow it to exist without needing to fix or outrun it. She shares insights on nervous system regulation, somatic healing, and how movement—no matter how small—can help us navigate the overwhelming tides of grief. If today feels like too much, let this episode be a place where you don’t have to hold it all alone. Let yourself be exactly as you are. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>A grounding breathwork exercise to help you arrive in the present moment</li><li>The unpredictable nature of grief and how to witness rather than resist it</li><li>How grief manifests in the body and why somatic healing matters</li><li>The role of gentle movement in restoring nervous system flexibility</li><li>A reminder that even the heaviest waves of grief will shift with time</li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

When Grief Feels Like Too Much

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In this deeply personal solo episode, Sarah invites us into the past 12 months of her life—a journey marked by grief, healing, and profound transformation. Through a raw and vulnerable narrative, Sarah recounts the loss, upheaval, and crisis that ultimately led to the birth of Poppy, her newly announced therapeutic flower farm in Loveland, Colorado. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of community, and the beauty that can emerge from pain. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>A reflection on navigating postpartum anxiety, illness, and survival mode</li><li>Unraveling of life’s expectations and the surrender to transformation</li><li>The powerful metaphor of labor and birth as a mirror for life&#39;s liminal spaces</li><li>The intuitive pull towards healing through nature and the unexpected journey to flower farming</li><li>The journey of reclaiming land and transforming it into a sacred space for grief, renewal, and healing</li><li>Poppy’s unfolding story and vision</li></ul> Learn more about Poppy:<ul><li>Website: <a href="https://poppyflowerfarm.com/" rel="nofollow">poppyflowerfarm.com</a></li><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/poppyflowerfarm/" rel="nofollow">@poppyflowerfarm</a></li><li>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572977313814" rel="nofollow">Poppy Flower Farm</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

The Story of Poppy: Planting Seeds of Grief & Growth

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Trigger Warning:This episode contains discussions about addiction, substance use, and the loss of a child and spouse. These topics may be distressing for some listeners, please take care of yourself while listening. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or grief, resources and support are available. Summary: In this episode, Sarah speaks with Kym Hinchey, a certified grief educator and mother who lost her son, Adrian, to addiction and her husband, John, three years later. Kym shares her journey through grief, the complexities of parenting a child with addiction, and how loss reshapes family dynamics. Together, they explore the physical and emotional manifestations of grief, the signs loved ones send after passing, and the importance of creating personal rituals to honor them. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>Kym’s journey through the loss of her son and husband</li><li>Navigating the complexities of mothering a child with addiction and the tension between intervention and acceptance</li><li>Recognizing the physical and emotional manifestations of grief</li><li>The experience of anticipatory grief and living with constant fear of loss</li><li>Finding signs and spiritual connections with loved ones after their passing</li><li>Creating personal rituals to honor and remember those we’ve lost</li></ul> Connect with Kym:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/agriefsupport" rel="nofollow">@agriefsupport</a></li><li>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/agriefsupport" rel="nofollow">@agriefsupport</a></li><li>Website: <a href="https://www.agriefsupport.com/" rel="nofollow">agriefsupport.com</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

A Mother’s Grief: Loving, Losing, and Honoring a Son Lost to Addiction with Kym Hinchey

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Today, Sarah sits down with Lisa Keefauver, MSW—grief activist, author, speaker, and host of the acclaimed podcast Grief is a Sneaky Bitch. Lisa shares her profound insights on navigating grief in all its forms, from tangible losses to the loss of identity, health, and dreams we once held. Sarah and Lisa explore the layered ways grief impacts our minds, bodies, and relationships, while also emphasizing the radical truth that grief and joy can coexist. Together, they examine the cultural discomfort around non-death losses and discuss the need for a broader understanding of grief, one that acknowledges and validates all forms of loss. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>The earliest memories of loss and how they shape our relationship with grief</li><li>The intersection of trauma, grief, and medical mistrust</li><li>How grief affects us physically, emotionally, and cognitively</li><li>The impact of implicit and inherited grief narratives</li><li>The balance of grief and joy: how to hold both at once</li><li>Navigating non-death losses—identity shifts, illness, miscarriage, and divorce</li><li>How to support ourselves and others in grief without trying to “fix” it</li></ul> Connect with Lisa:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lisakeefauvermsw" rel="nofollow">@lisakeefauvermsw</a></li><li>Website: <a href="http://www.lisakeefauver.com/" rel="nofollow">lisakeefauver.com</a></li><li>Podcast: <a href="https://apple.co/4g97Npg" rel="nofollow">Grief is a Sneaky Bitch</a></li><li>Book: <a href="https://amzn.to/3CbCfRO" rel="nofollow">Grief is a Sneaky Bitch: An Uncensored Guide to Navigating Loss</a></li><li>TEDxTalk: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYtwSU-qaWc" rel="nofollow">Why knowing more about grief can make it suck less</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li></ul>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a>

Grief Isn’t Just About Death: A New Perspective with Lisa Keefauver

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In this deeply insightful episode, Sarah welcomes Kendra Rinaldi, an intuitive grief guide and the creator of the Grief, Gratitude, and the Gray In Between podcast. Together, they explore the complex and nuanced space where grief and gratitude coexist, particularly in the realm of motherhood. Kendra shares her personal experiences of loss—the deaths of her sister, mother, and unborn child—and how these profound experiences have shaped her approach to grief and healing. She and Sarah discuss the cultural norms surrounding grief, the duality of emotions in motherhood, and the importance of honoring both loss and transformation. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>How Kendra’s personal losses led her to create a space for grief conversations</li><li>The ‘gray in between’ of grief and gratitude, and why both emotions can coexist</li><li>The ways grief shapes identity shifts in motherhood</li><li>Why guilt often accompanies both grief and motherhood</li><li>How cultural norms shape and sometimes hinder our ability to grieve openly</li><li>The importance of tuning into your intuition while navigating loss</li><li>The evolving sibling dynamic after a loss and how to nurture family bonds</li><li>How grief changes over time and the importance of self-compassion</li></ul> Connect with Kendra:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/griefgratitudepodcast/" rel="nofollow">@griefgratitudepodcast</a></li><li>Website: <a href="https://www.griefgratitudeandthegrayinbetween.com/" rel="nofollow">griefgratitudeandthegrayinbetween.com</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

The In-Between Space of Grief & Motherhood with Kendra Rinaldi

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In this episode, Sarah shares a deeply personal experience of grief, exploring how it builds up, erupts, and the importance of aftercare. She discusses how grief is cyclical, emphasizing self-care, aftercare, and ways to nurture our bodies, minds, and hearts during difficult moments. Through grounding exercises, breathwork, and somatic practices, Sarah guides listeners in reconnecting with themselves and finding safety in their bodies. This episode is a reminder that grief reshapes rather than breaks us, offering opportunities for deep wisdom and connection. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>The difference between self-care and aftercare in the grief process</li><li>Why grief often resurfaces unexpectedly and how to honor its cycles</li><li>Grounding techniques to bring safety back into your body after a big grief wave</li><li>The role of movement and breathwork in processing grief</li><li>How nourishment (both physical and emotional) supports healing</li><li>The importance of self-compassion in navigating grief</li><li>Simple practices to slow down and create space for your emotions</li></ul> Resources (Featured Quotes and Readings):<ul><li>Excerpts from Andrea Gibson’s poetry, including For Those Who Live in the Dark and The Nutritionist, reinforcing that grief is a rearrangement rather than a breaking.</li><li>A powerful reflection from Sarah Blondin: “In your sadness, there is a deep wisdom. In your pain, there&#39;s a story being told. Trust that you are exactly where you need to be and that this journey, though painful, will bring you to a deeper understanding of yourself.”</li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Aftercare for Big Grief

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Today, Sarah explores the profound connection between grief and love. She takes us on a journey through global grief rituals and ceremonies, uncovering the universal truths they reflect. Drawing from her personal experiences and inspirations, Sarah highlights the transformative power of rituals in honoring grief, creating space for emotions, and cultivating community healing. She also weaves in her own reflections on tending to grief through nature and how it mirrors life’s cycles of growth, loss, and renewal. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>The inseparable connection between grief and love</li><li>Tending to grief through rituals: a personal reflection on healing with nature</li><li>Insights into grief traditions from around the world</li><li>The importance of ritual as a container for grief</li><li>How to create personal grief rituals by drawing inspiration from nature and lineage</li><li>Reflecting on motherhood’s role in rituals and community grief</li></ul> Resources:<ul><li>The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis Weller</li><li>My Father’s Wake by Kevin Toolis</li><li>The Songlines by Bruce Chatwin</li><li>The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying by Sogyal Rinpoche</li><li>Motherhood and Loss in Victorian England by Claudia Nelson</li><li>Balinese Ceremonial Practices by Urs Ramseyer</li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Tending to Grief: The Power of Rituals in Healing

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In this episode, Sarah delves into the intricate physiological changes that accompany motherhood. Building on last week’s discussion on matrescence, Sarah offers a deeper exploration of the remarkable transformations—physical, emotional, and spiritual—that mothers undergo during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Drawing on science, personal experience, and poetic insights, this episode celebrates the profound journey of becoming a mother, while acknowledging the grief, growth, and evolution it entails. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>Physiological changes during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum</li><li>Hormonal, cardiovascular, and neurological adaptations in motherhood</li><li>The lasting biological bond through fetal microchimerism</li><li>Motherhood as a journey of grief, growth, and transformation</li><li>The impact of modern isolation and rebuilding the “village”</li><li>A poetic reflection on the beauty of becoming a mother</li></ul> Resources:<ul><li>Science (2012): A study by Fisher et al. demonstrated the persistence of fetal DNA in a mother&#39;s body years after childbirth.</li><li>American Journal of Reproductive Immunology (2009): This research provides evidence of fetal cells remaining in maternal organs and tissues, suggesting that fetal microchimerism plays a role in immune system modulation.</li><li>Nature (2004): Studies that reveal the movement of fetal cells across the placenta and their long-term presence in maternal organs.</li><li>The Journal of Neuroscience, Hoekzema et al. (2016). Brain structure changes during pregnancy.</li><li>Psychoneuroendocrinology, on the role of cortisol during pregnancy.</li><li>The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, on maternal nutrition and its impact on pregnancy.</li><li>The Journal of Reproductive Medicine, on postpartum recovery and immune system changes.</li><li>The Lancet, on postpartum hormonal changes.</li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Mother Body: The Profound Physiological Changes in Becoming a Mother

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Today&#39;s solo episode takes us on a heartfelt exploration of matrescence—the transformative rite of passage from maiden to mother. Drawing from her personal experiences and the insights of experts, Sarah delves into the often-unspoken grief that accompanies this journey. She reframes grief as a marker of growth, encouraging mothers to honor their evolution in motherhood. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>Sarah’s journey through matrescence and its impact on her identity</li><li>What matrescence is and its parallels to adolescence</li><li>The grief of matrescence as part of the transition from maiden to mother</li><li>Grief as a sign of growth and the importance of honoring it</li><li>Physical and neurological changes that accompany motherhood</li><li>Evolving identity through motherhood and embracing transformation</li><li>A simple breathwork practice for grounding and reflection</li></ul> Resources:<ul><li>The Age of the Mother by Sarah DeGregorio</li><li>What No One Tells You: A Guide to Your Emotions During Pregnancy and Early Motherhood by Dr. Alexandra Sacks</li><li>The Female Brain by Dr. Louann Brizendine</li></ul> Journal Prompts for Reflection:<ul><li>What parts of my maiden self am I grieving?</li><li>How has my sense of identity changed since becoming a mother?</li><li>How can I honor my grief as a way of nurturing my growth?</li><li>What is one thing I can do today to support my evolving self during this rite of passage?</li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

The Grief of Matrescence: Moving from Maiden to Mother

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/1/5/15/bf667737-d0e3-44bf-8494-6f3e969213e0_mg-master_audio-ep11-andrea_meyers-v1.mp3

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of stillbirth and pregnancy loss, which may be difficult for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised, particularly for those who may find these subjects triggering or difficult to engage with. In this deeply moving episode, Sarah sits down with Andrea Meyers, founder of The Grief Closet. Andrea shares the story of her daughter, Terra, who was stillborn at 38 weeks, and how this profound loss reshaped her life and purpose. This episode creates a space for the often-hidden grief surrounding stillbirth, providing education, support, and a voice to those who have experienced it. Andrea’s candid storytelling and vulnerability open the door for meaningful conversations about honoring life, embracing grief, and fostering systemic changes in maternal healthcare. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>Terra’s story and Andrea’s journey through loss and healing</li><li>Understanding stillbirth prevention and the importance of maternal intuition</li><li>The role of advocacy and awareness in transforming maternal care practices</li><li>How grief reshapes relationships, perspectives, and personal growth</li><li>The significance of honoring a stillborn child and the rituals that help</li><li>Practical advice for those supporting loved ones through stillbirth</li><li>Andrea’s creation of The Grief Closet and her mission to honor grief through art and apparel</li></ul> Connect with Andrea Meyers:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/grievinglikeamother" rel="nofollow">@‌grievinglikeamother</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegriefcloset/" rel="nofollow">@thegriefcloset</a></li><li>Website: <a href="http://www.thegriefcloset.com/" rel="nofollow">thegriefcloset.com</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Advocating for Stillbirth Awareness and Prevention with Andrea Meyers

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/12/12/18/260bc671-9d0c-4b90-a11a-43c3191bc69e_mg-master_audio-ep10-v2.mp3

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics, including early pregnancy loss, miscarriage, and the emotional experiences of grief and healing. Listener discretion is advised, particularly for those who may find these subjects triggering or difficult to engage with. In this episode, Sarah speaks with Andrea Turnbow, founder of The Grief Nook, about her experience with early pregnancy loss. Andrea shares the emotional journey of navigating grief, from the initial disbelief and guilt to finding healing through creativity and community. They discuss the societal silence around miscarriage, the complexities of pregnancy after loss, and the importance of honoring even the shortest lives. This conversation offers support, insight, and hope to anyone touched by early loss or seeking to understand it better. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>Andrea’s journey through early pregnancy loss and the emotions of guilt, anger, and disbelief</li><li>Breaking societal silence and stigmas around miscarriage and early loss</li><li>The healing power of naming and honoring lost pregnancies</li><li>Navigating the complexities of pregnancy after loss</li><li>Using creative outlets and rituals, like art and nature, to process grief</li><li>Parenting after loss and fostering open, age-appropriate conversations about grief</li></ul> Connect with Andrea Turnbow:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegriefnook/" rel="nofollow">@thegriefnook</a></li><li>Website: <a href="https://www.thegriefnook.com/connect" rel="nofollow">thegriefnook.com</a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaturnbow/" rel="nofollow">andreaturnbow</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a></li></ul>

Breaking the Silence of Early Pregnancy Loss with Andrea Turnbow

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/12/5/21/173a4955-faa0-4838-9ab5-bc995132be1e_mg-master_audio-ep09-v1.mp3

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about loss, child loss, and the emotional challenges of navigating grief during the holidays. If these topics are sensitive or triggering for you, please listen with care. If needed, consider pausing or seeking support from trusted individuals or resources. Summary: In this solo episode, Sarah explores the complexities of grief during the holiday season—a time often filled with joy, togetherness, and traditions, but also profound sadness, loss, and unmet expectations for those grieving. Sarah offers heartfelt insights for grieving mothers and those supporting them, providing guidance on navigating the complexities of the holiday season with vulnerability, understanding, and self-compassion. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>Embracing the duality of joy and grief during the holiday season without guilt or shame</li><li>How societal pressures for perfection amplify grief and unmet expectations</li><li>Recognizing physical grief symptoms, such as “grief hangovers” and somatic sensations</li><li>Honoring loved ones through meaningful rituals</li><li>Simplifying holiday plans, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care to manage grief burnout</li><li>Leaning on support systems to navigate the complexities of grief with connection and compassion</li></ul> Connect with Sarah:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li><li>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a> </li></ul>

Grief During the Holidays

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/11/28/15/0d7a35bd-31e5-40bf-982c-c9a4bd564e5e_mg-master_audio-ep08.mp3

In another profoundly insightful episode, Sarah sits down with Jessica Correnti, a Certified Child Life Specialist, author, and founder of Kids Grief Support. Drawing from over 16 years of experience supporting grieving children and families, Jessica shares her deeply personal journey as a bereaved mother who has experienced six pregnancy losses. Together, Sarah and Jessica explore the complexities of children’s grief, offering valuable guidance, practical tools, and compassionate perspectives. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>The complexities of children’s grief and how it differs from adult grieving patterns</li><li>The impact of language, like &#34;I can’t even imagine,&#34; in validating or isolating grieving individuals</li><li>Exploring grief in non-death losses and their effect on children</li><li>Practical ways to talk to young children about death in age-appropriate terms</li><li>How children process grief through play and the concept of “re-grieving” at developmental milestones</li><li>The importance of grief literacy in schools and initiatives to support grieving students</li></ul> Connect with Jessica Correnti:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kidsgriefsupport" rel="nofollow">@kidsgriefsupport</a></li><li>Website: <a href="https://www.kidsgriefsupport.com/" rel="nofollow">kidsgriefsupport.com</a></li><li>Books by Jessica:</li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/3CMLU1f" rel="nofollow">The ABCs of Grief</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/3Z85oow" rel="nofollow">Forever Connected</a></li><li>The ABCs of Grief: Emotions &amp; Feelings (Preorder <a href="https://www.kidsgriefsupport.com/shop/p/theabcsofgriefbook-emotionsandfeelings" rel="nofollow">here</a>)</li></ul> Sarah&#39;s Top 25 Grief Books for Kids: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/autoimmunetribe/list/3HB45JTV8STL0?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsflist_DQ92JYW48AZF4TMZC2ES" rel="nofollow">click here</a>Connect with Sarah: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a>Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">click here</a>

Understanding Kids' Grief: Insights and Tools with Jessica Correnti

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/11/22/19/a3544a7c-5bde-4b1c-9c0a-06ee3f086c5c_mg-master_audio-ep07.mp3

In this thought-provoking episode, Sarah sits down with somatic healing practitioner and holistic life coach Rebecca Dollard to explore the intricate and often messy intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Together, they unravel the societal pressure to &#34;have it all figured out,&#34; the challenges of dual identities as mothers and creators, and the powerful role of somatic healing in reclaiming joy and authenticity. Rebecca shares her personal journey of stepping into entrepreneurship as a mother, the grief of letting go of old identities, and the transformative lessons learned along the way. This deep, honest conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating motherhood, entrepreneurship, or both, while seeking to honor their humanity and wholeness. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>The myth of &#34;having it all&#34; and why balance might not be the right word</li><li>Grieving the loss of old identities while embracing new ones</li><li>How perfectionism and mom guilt hold women back, and ways to break free</li><li>The power of somatic healing to reconnect with your body and intuition</li><li>Building support systems and redefining what success looks like in different seasons of life</li><li>Shifting from performance-driven living to authentic, embodied presence</li></ul> Connect with Rebecca Dollard:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/themotherhoodmentor/" rel="nofollow">@themotherhoodmentor</a></li><li>Podcast: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-motherhood-mentor/id1735994095" rel="nofollow">The Motherhood Mentor</a></li></ul> Connect with Sarah:Mama Nervous System Reset: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset" rel="nofollow">https://theuncensoredempath.com/mama-nervous-system-reset</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a>

Motherhood, Entrepreneurship, and Letting Go of 'Having It All Figured Out'

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/11/18/17/dac05f55-9606-43fe-99dd-134e8ca38b1e_mg-master_audio-ep06.mp3

Today on MotherGrief, Sarah engages in a heartfelt discussion with licensed therapist and grief integration coach, Rio Richards. Specializing in trauma recovery with a focus on the nervous system and somatic EMDR, Rio brings her expertise and personal experience to the forefront as she shares her journey of anticipatory grief—navigating the emotional and physical toll it takes—and the complexities of being the eldest daughter during a loved one’s terminal illness. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>Anticipatory grief’s impact on caregivers with terminally ill loved ones</li><li>The pressure on eldest daughters to take caregiving and decision roles</li><li>The difference between guilt and regret in grief</li><li>Acknowledging secondary losses affecting identity and family dynamics</li><li>Body-based grief techniques: recognizing sensations and creating safe spaces</li></ul> Connect with Rio Richards:<ul><li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/andthatsgrief" rel="nofollow">@andthatsgrief</a></li><li>Email: <a href="mailto:riorichardstherapy@gmail.com" rel="nofollow">riorichardstherapy@gmail.com</a></li><li>Weekly Newsletter: <a href="https://substack.com/@touchingthefire" rel="nofollow">https://substack.com/@touchingthefire</a></li><li>Upcoming Event: Registration is open for Rio’s “<a href="https://l.instagram.com/?e=AT2lky83Dk0rLHrtLIJJYuQWLE1NKlOyJ4Zqf8jux8-2v5BxPQ7pjf6U7-MWqdSQvxyCHANIfThPpOaDJCg7Ad61FSAV5w2wde0Anq-7YqMSXLDfANVu&u=https%3A%2F%2Friorichards.thrivecart.com%2Fgroup-program-grief-anxiety%2F%3Ffbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabrR4t4jJ-JvLAi-06dUsWtQQ6f92obOku0J_LYJCD1Ck24a3rhC-g-lTY_aem_F6i7JGduLBuQ8svW_1CvHw" rel="nofollow">Grief, Anxiety, and the Holidays</a>” group starting the week of November 18th</li></ul>

Eldest Daughter Grief & Navigating Anticipatory Loss

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/11/11/3/54465790-31b2-4814-af08-ee4a491dde15_mg-master_audio-ep05.mp3

In this deeply insightful episode, Sarah combines her extensive knowledge of empathic experiences with the profound and often complex journey of grief. Drawing from years of experience as an empath coach and host of The Uncensored Empath, Sarah shares how empaths navigate grief uniquely due to their heightened sensitivity and emotional awareness. This episode unpacks how the empath’s journey through grief can vary depending on their path to becoming an empath—whether born this way, influenced by cosmic origins, shaped by childhood experiences, or developed through numbing and disconnection. Today on MotherGrief:<ul><li>How empaths experience grief more intensely due to heightened sensitivity</li><li>Why mirror neurons amplify the absorption of others&#39; emotions during grief</li><li>The significance of setting boundaries to distinguish personal and external grief</li><li>Exploring grounding practices to support emotional release and regulation</li><li>The role of community connection in reducing emotional isolation during grief</li></ul> Resources:<ul><li>Are you an empath? Take the <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/empath-quiz" rel="nofollow">Empath Quiz</a></li><li>Discover your empath archetype: <a href="https://theuncensoredempath.com/empath-archetype-quiz" rel="nofollow">Empath Archetype Quiz</a></li><li>Connect with Sarah for more info on her one-on-one somatic grief coaching: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsaintjohn" rel="nofollow">@sarahsaintjohn</a></li></ul>

The Empath’s Guide to Grief

On MotherGrief , we delve into how all forms of grief and loss—whether clear-cut or ambiguous—shape and transform our lives. We explore the profound act of grieving well, offering a space to reframe and redefine the grief experiences of mothers.

Through grief literacy, grief education, and simply allowing ourselves to inhabit the sacred space of grief, this show serves maidens, mothers, and wise women alike—those who create, nurture, and hold life on this earth.

Here, you will find a place to exhale, to be witnessed in your sorrow, and to be acknowledged in your hardships. This is a sanctuary for grievers, where your experience is honored and your pain is recognized.

Grief has woven itself into the fabric of Sarah St. John’s life in profound and unexpected ways—from the sudden, heartbreaking loss of her two younger brothers, to the silent sorrows of multiple miscarriages. The more elusive forms of grief have also left their mark: the loss of safety following illness, and the subtle, yet powerful, shifts in identity as she journeyed through matrescence.

Sarah believes that grief carries deep wisdom, and through MotherGrief , she hopes to guide you in discovering the golden threads nestled within the clouds of sorrow. We will turn to nature as our teacher, using it as a metaphor for the life-death cycle, always reminding you that grief is not something to "heal" or eliminate. Grief is love turned inside out—something to plant, nurture, move through, harvest, and allow to compost into new life.

This is MotherGrief.