Episode 33

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Published on:

12th Apr 2026

Chapter 17: Understanding Grief Beyond Death with Sandra

In an engaging and deeply personal dialogue, Story and Sandra embark on a profound exploration of disenfranchised grief, specifically focusing on the emotional landscape that follows the disintegration of a marital union. Sandra provides a candid recounting of her journey through grief, illuminating the often-ignored reality that such emotional turmoil can manifest in ways that society may not readily recognize or validate. This chapter seeks to dismantle the stigma surrounding grief that is not linked to death, emphasizing the significant emotional impact of losing a partner and the life one envisioned with them. The discussion delves into the nuances of identity and self-perception that are irrevocably altered after a relationship's dissolution. This chapter highlights the importance of acknowledging and processing these feelings of loss, advocating for a broader understanding of grief that encompasses a wide spectrum of human experiences. Through their conversation, Story and Sandra advocate for the recognition of disenfranchised grief as a legitimate and significant aspect of the human experience. They encourage listeners to embrace their feelings, regardless of societal expectations, and validate the emotional upheaval that accompanies the end of meaningful relationships. This chapter is a clarion call for empathy and understanding, urging society to create spaces where all forms of grief are acknowledged and honored, thus fostering a more inclusive narrative around loss.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sponsorship for The Upside to Grief

Mady's Tattoos Madys tattoos is based out of mission beach California where She specializes in Japanese traditional , black and grey , photography, art, and media. Mady believes that tattoos can be more than art, they are milestones, memories, and reminders of how far you’ve come. To learn more or book a session you can find her on instagram at madys_tattoos. Azadi Healing Azadi — which is FARSI for freedom — empowers individuals and communities through trauma-informed care and events such as nervous system regulation, reiki, sound healing, breathwork facilitation and more. Whether you're exploring healing or navigating grief, Azadi Healing offers a sacred space to come home to yourself and find your center. Remember that you’re never alone on this journey. Visit azadihealing.com

Show artwork for The Upside to Grief

About the Podcast

The Upside to Grief
Grief Podcast
Is there an upside to grief?

Your host Story created this podcast to explore just that.

On The Upside to Grief podcast, Story and her guests will share their personal stories with grief and how it can be a transformative force. Story will have one-on-one conversations with guests about the language around grief, redefining society’s views, and breaking cultural norms around grief. Quirky segments discussing other aspects intertwined with the grieving process such as; "Grief in the Wild", "Moments of Knowing", and "Questionable Grief Decisions" aka QGD's will follow each guest’s chapter.

Story doesn't tip toe around the subject and shares unapologetically about her views and opinions. In order to create a positive change and still acknowledge that grief just straight up sucks, we need to start normalizing having these uncomfortable conversations.

Story invite's you to join her on this deeply personal and supportive journey as we all explore the transformative power of navigating loss.

You can follow The Upside to Grief on all social media linked below:
https://linktr.ee/theupsidetogrief

The Upside to Grief podcast is sponsored by Azadi Healing and Mady’s Tattoos.
Follow them on their social media below:

Azadi Healing
IG: @azadihealing
Website: https://azadihealing.com/

Mady’s Tattoo’s
IG: @Madys_Tattoos
FB: Madylyn Leclair

About your host