Episode 13

full
Published on:

23rd Nov 2025

Chapter 7: Jo Story - Growing with Grief

The focus of this chapter is the profound exploration of grief as we engage in a heartfelt dialogue with Jo Story, the mother of our host, Story. Jo recounts the harrowing experience of losing her younger brother, Leroy, who succumbed to stage four colon cancer at the age of 42. This poignant conversation delves into the complexities of familial relationships, the burdens of guilt, and the emotional landscape that accompanies such a significant loss. Jo reflects on her evolving relationship with Leroy, from a nurturing sibling dynamic to the challenges posed by distance and life circumstances. Through this intimate exchange, we gain insight into the enduring impact of loss and the intricate pathways of healing that emerge in its wake.

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