From Experience: The Grief Collection

UPDATE - Just a little pause and Herb's 4th birthday

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 06:30:00 +1100

Life has gotten in the way of me being able to interview and edit episodes so the podcast will just take a very short break. Herb's 4th birthday next week too...so I'm finding life just a little harder right now. I promise I will be back very soon with other amazing stories of grief and insights in to what has worked and what hasn't for people in their journeys.

Follow - @biancaleewelsh or @fromexperience_

Website: fromexperience.co

Email: hello@fromexperience.co

Episode 7: Indira Naidoo - The Healing Power of Nature; Navigating Grief After Losing a Sister

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 06:30:00 +1100

In this poignant episode, host Bianca Welsh converses with Indira Naidoo, celebrated Australian broadcaster and author, about her journey through grief following the suicide of her sister. Bianca and Indira explore the intersection of grief, healing, and nature, discussing the therapeutic impact of gardening, the significance of journaling, and the importance of finding stillness. Indira's personal narrative provides profound insights into coping with loss and the enduring strength of familial connections.

The episode also features Dr. Mai Frandsen, who delves into the psychological aspects of grief, the role of journaling, and the critical need for balance between processing emotions and daily obligations.

About Indira:

Indira Naidoo is one of Australia’s most respected broadcasters and authors, with a 30-year award-winning career across ABC and SBS, including Late Edition, World News, Weekend Nightlife, and currently Compass on ABC TV. She is a passionate advocate for environmental and food sustainability and is the bestselling author of The Edible Balcony and The Edible City, also designing award-winning gardens and supporting communities to grow their own food.

Indira is a sought-after speaker and facilitator and an ambassador for Sydney’s Wayside Chapel. Her latest book, The Space Between the Stars: On Love, Loss and the Healing Power of Nature, shortlisted for the 2023 ABIA Nonfiction Book of the Year, had a profound impact on my own healing journey.

Follow: Bianca Welsh - @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh

Indira Naidoo - @dearindira

Dr. Mai Frandsen - @trigpsychology or @maifrandsen

Website: fromexperience.co

Resources:

Indira's Book - The Space Between the Stars (Murdoch Books)

A Tasmanian Lifeline

Acces s Mental Health Helpline

Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) Tas - PH 1800 811 994

National:

Beyond Blue PH: 1300 224 636

StandBy Support After Suicide PH: 1300 727 247

Suicide Call Back Service PH: 1300 659 467

Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstripe Inc.

Cover Image: Eden Wilday

Episode 6: Pippa Dickson - After the Last Walk: What the death of my dog taught me about life, love and compassion

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 06:30:00 +1100

In this podcast episode host Bianca Welsh interviews her friend Dr. Pippa Dickson about the loss of her beloved dog, Art. They discuss how pet grief is often minimized, the deep connections pets can have in our lives, and the challenging emotions they experienced. Pippa shares personal stories and insights on coping mechanisms, such as finding symbolism in Greek mythology and seeking community support online.

The episode also touches upon broader themes of grief, identity, and cultural treatment of emotions, with reflections from Dr. Mai Frandsen, a psychologist specializing in health behavior change. This episode highlights the importance of validating all forms of grief and finding ways to navigate through the journey of loss.

About Pippa:

A coveted and collectable furniture designer in her own right, Pippa Dickson has become one of the country’s strongest advocates for Australian design, aiming to advance design and designers in her hometown Tasmania, and Australia. She was the Chair of Design Tasmania, and co-chair of the National Craft Initiative, Pippa is also the founding CEO of the award winning Glenorchy Art & Sculpture Park (GASP!) – a community focused space that combines innovative architecture and art.

Follow: Bianca Welsh - @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh

Dr. Mai Frandsen - @trigpsychology or @maifrandsen

Dr. Pippa Dickson - @pippadickson

Website: fromexperience.co

Resources:

Beyond Blue or ph: 1300 224 636

Lifeline or ph: 13 11 14

Griefline or ph: 1300 845 745

Relationships Australia Tasmanian branch - Grief Counsellors or ph: 1300 364 277

The Emerald Podcast with Joshua Michael Schrei - Reissue: On Trauma and Vegetation Gods.

Heart of a Dog Documentary by Laurie Anderson

Dog Songs by Mary Oliver, a book of poems

Music Credit: "Denali" by Bryant Lowry. Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI). Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI). Licensed via Soundstribe inc.

Cover Image: Eden Wilday

Episode 5: Emily Judd - When the World Stopped: Emily's Stillbirth Journey and What Helped Her Breathe Again

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 06:30:00 +1100

In this special episode (the first one Bianca recorded almost 18 months ago!) host Bianca Welsh introduces us to her dear friend Emily Judd. They delve into Emily's poignant journey through grief following the stillbirth of her son, Jack at full term, while she was on maternity leave from work.

Emily shares the harrowing experience of losing Jack, the process of healing, and her ongoing quest to navigate life after loss. They also explore the coping mechanisms, both adaptive and maladaptive, that Emily has employed and offers insights into what has and hasn’t worked in her healing journey.

Psychologist Dr. Mai Frandsen joins the discussion to provide professional perspectives on the topics of dissociation, avoidance, and the importance of acknowledging grief. This episode is a profound exploration of loss, resilience, and the power of storytelling in the grieving process.

ABOUT Emily:

Emily is from Launceston where she lives with her three children (two living, Lydia and Adeline) and her husband Nick (pictured). She is a senior criminal lawyer at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and in the small amount of spare time she has she enjoys spending time with her family at the beach and has devoted a huge amount of time to the creation of her baby loss resources - A Little Help From Jack, a booklet with all sorts of resources for a family experiencing a stillbirth from helplines, professional resources, to books for mum, dad and kids, podcasts, memory making ideas and so much more. The guide has expanded to A Little Help From Remy, specifically for TFMR and recently A Little Help From Lily, specifically for child loss and paediatric palliative care. Emily has become a well respected and valued voice in the Stillbirth community contributing to research, advocacy and awareness.

Follow: @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh @alittlehelpfromjack @maifrandsen

Website: fromexperience.co | alittlehelpfromjack.com.au

Resources

Bears Of Hope Ph: 1300 11 4673

Red Nose Ph: 1300 308 307

Gidget Foundation Ph: 1300 851 758

Resource Companions: A Little Help From Jack, A Little Help From Remy, A Little Help From Lily

Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry.

Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI).

Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI).

Licensed via Soundstripe Inc.

Cover Image: Eden Wilday

Episode 4: Melody West - After Them at 50; When Both Parents Die

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 06:30:00 +1100

In this beautiful episode host Bianca Welsh speaks with Melody West about her profound experiences and reflections on the deaths of her parents. Having lost both of them to cancer, her Dad in her 20’s and her Mum in her 40’s, her experience of anticipatory grief, and how each loss altered her life and perspective over time will resonate with many who have to watch loved ones lose their battles with various cancers.

Melody generously shares the ways in which she connects with both of her parents, even though they aren’t here, the supports that worked for her and also discusses the challenges which can come from caring for a loved one through their cancer battle.

They discuss the concept of grief being a 'gift, and the dissonance this can sometimes bring, the perpetual nature of grief, and how one can grow around it rather than moving on from it.

Dr. Mai Frandsen provides professional insights into coping mechanisms, the role of anticipatory grief, and the importance of radical acceptance. This episode offers both personal anecdotes and psychological perspectives, aiming to provide solace and understanding for those navigating their own grief journeys.

ABOUT MELODY:

Melody is a Launcestonian, born and bred.

Who spent a fair portion of life off the island, but was drawn back and studied here. She met her partner, Nick, and has two beautiful boys and two dogs. She recently left an academic career of 20 years and has moved into a role with the Department of Health in Tasmania.

Follow on instagram @biancaleewelsh or @fromexperience_

Resources:

Beyond Blue or ph: 1300 224 636

Lifeline or ph: 13 11 14

Griefline or ph: 1300 845 745

Relationships Australia Tasmanian branch - Grief Counsellors or ph: 1300 364 277

32 Journal Prompts for Grieving and Loss

Melody’s Book Suggestions:

On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief Through the Five Stages of Loss - Elizabeth Kubler-Ross M.D. and David Kessler

Signs: The Secret Language of the Universe - Laura Lynne Jackson

David Kessler - Grief.com

Internal Family Systems - what is it?

Internal Family Systems - Dr. Richard Schwarz (IFS founder) on the Huberman Lab

Music Credit: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry.

Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI).

Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI).

Licensed via Soundstripe Inc.

Cover Image: Eden Wilday

Episode 3: Tom Moir - Behind the Badge: Overcoming Trauma and Grief as a Police Officer

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 06:30:00 +1100

Grief isn't just through death - it can be through the loss of something, perhaps that something is the loss of ourselves through the experience of trauma, or perhaps the safety of the world we thought we knew...

In this episode host Bianca Welsh speaks with Tom Moir, a Detective Senior Constable with Tasmania Police, having joined in 2014 at the age of 19. He investigates some of Northern Tasmania's most serious drug and firearm offenders. In 2020, Tom was diagnosed with complex PTSD, severe depression and anxiety, largely as a result of repeat exposure to a range of traumatic incidences, the toll of which nearly claimed his life.

Tom bravely delves into his personal journey through complex PTSD, severe depression, and anxiety, largely resultant from his profession. Tom candidly discusses his experiences with grief, trauma, and the subsequent healing process, highlighting the importance of therapies like EMDR. The discussion emphasizes the stigma around male vulnerability, the necessity of compassionate self-care, and the remarkable strength found in vulnerability.

Complementing this conversation, Dr. Mai Frandsen provides a psychological perspective on trauma, grief, and various therapeutic methods.

Music: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry.

Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI).

Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI).

Licensed via Soundstripe Inc.

Cover Image: Eden Wilday

Follow: @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh

Website: fromexperience.co

Resources

Tasmania:

A Tasmanian Lifeline

Acces s Mental Health Helpline

Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) Tas - PH 1800 811 994

National:

Beyond Blue PH: 1300 224 636

StandBy Support After Suicide PH: 1300 727 247

Suicide Call Back Service PH: 1300 659 467

Mensline Australia PH: 1300 789 978

Mental Health Families and Friends

A carer network for families and friends support someone with their mental ill health, access phone support and referrals 9-5pm weekdays.

EMDR - what is it?

Yoga for Trauma - Hobart

Yoga for Trauma - Launceston - Burnie

Mental Health First Aid

David Kessler - Grief.com

Gabor Maté - ADHD, addiction, trauma expert

Dr. Frank Anderson - IFS and trauma expert

Neurofeedback - what is it?

Episode 2: Bianca and James Welsh - The Choiceless Choice Part 2

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 06:30:00 +1100

Continuing on from Part 1, Bianca discusses the importance of understanding, connection, and finding one's purpose in the aftermath of grief. James shares his coping mechanisms, primarily through physical exertion and running, finding solace in pushing his physical limits. The episode underscores the non-linear nature of grief, emphasizing that everyone experiences and copes with loss differently. The couple also talks about supportive therapies, including counseling, massage, yoga, and maintaining strong personal connections, as they navigate through their emotions. Reflecting on the different coping strategies they used, the episode provides insights into how individuals and couples can support each other through the complex journey of grief. The conversation is enriched by the expertise of Dr. Mai Frandsen, who offers psychological perspectives on coping and healing.

Music: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry.

Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI).

Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI).

Licensed via Soundstripe Inc.

Cover Image: Eden Wilday (edenwilday.com)

Follow: @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh

Resources

Through the Unexpected - information and a list of support options for parents faced with prenatal diagnosis.

Pink Elephants Support Network - offers online grief support and information for miscarriage.

Red Nose or SANDS offers 24/7 telephone grief support on 1300 308 307

Bears of Hope - offers grief support on 1300 11 HOPE or via email: support@bearsofhope.org.au

TFMR Mamas - a resource and community for the TFMR community

**All of the above have specific TFMR pages

PANDA - Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia - supports the mental health of parents and families during pregnancy and in their first year of parenthood - or 1300 726 306.

Lifeline - 13 11 14

Heartfelt - volunteer organisation providing professional photographers to families who have experienced the loss of a baby or child living with serious or life threatening illness.

For the Dads! Red Nose service specifically for Dad’s. Love From Dad - a website and instagram account for bereaved Dads.

Other things mentioned in this episode

The amazing physiotherapist Michaela Muldoon who treated us with a trauma lens - Restore Physio (Launceston)

Mountain Biking Experience - Blue Derby Pods

Meal Train our friends setup - it’s amazing, we would get a notification of what was coming and it gave those that wanted to be a part of it the ability to see what others were cooking so we didn’t end up with a 1000 lasagnes.

The Ring Theory of Grief an article from Psychology Today but also helpful to understand just from this image.

Nick Cave’s Letter to a fellow griever.

The Image of the hole of grief, but how we grow around it.

Point to Pinnacle - the world’s toughest half marathon and the physical feat that I would say changed my life, always held in November in Hobart, Tasmania.

Linden Cook impression range - the footprint ring James has and I have a necklace.

Sarah and Sebastian - birthstone range, I have Herb and both our living children’s birthstone on a bracelet (conveniently both my living children are born in the same month).

Breathwork: unfortunately nothing regular in Launceston, but hopefully that will change! For Hobartians - Alchemy Performance, Embodied Living, and Hobart Breathing Space. Based in Melbourne by they have an App - Breath Haus. And The Lily Flower by Priyanka Saha, she is a loss mum and has just begun healing and somatic healing through breathwork with an online guide.

For a comprehensive list of other resources please see fromexperience.co.

00:00 Introduction to the Grief Collection Podcast

01:25 The Universality of Grief

02:14 Acknowledging Sensitive Topics

03:28 James's Journey Through Grief

07:47 Therapeutic Activities and Coping Mechanisms

26:57 The Role of Community and Support

31:27 Navigating Work and Social Expectations

37:37 Reflecting on Personal Changes and Acceptance

52:09 Navigating Guilt and Trauma

53:09 Protective Instincts and Coping Mechanisms

56:07 Finding Solace in Connection

01:03:20 Physical Activities as Therapy

01:12:45 Commemorating and Remembering

01:16:56 The Loneliness of Grief

01:27:56 The Healing Power of a New Life

01:33:11 Exploring Breath Work and Medium Sessions

01:35:44 The Role of Structure and Relationship in Coping

01:36:52 Introducing Dr. Mai Fransden

01:38:20 Discussing Grief and Coping Mechanisms

02:01:39 The Importance of Space and Support

02:17:02 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements

Episode 1: Bianca and James Welsh - The Choiceless Choice Part 1

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +1100

In this emotional and heartfelt premiere episode of From Experience: The Grief Collection, host Bianca Welsh shares her deeply personal story of facing grief and loss with her husband James. Bianca recounts their journey through the traumatic experience of losing their son Herbert, at 36+6 days, due to a termination for medical reason (TFMR). She details their emotional struggles, the decisions they had to make, their healing process, and the unique ways they've navigated grief together. The episode includes sensitive discussions about baby loss, mental health struggles, and the couple's emotional and painful journey towards finding some semblance of peace. Bianca also offers words of comfort and solidarity to those experiencing or curious about grief, highlighting the importance of storytelling and open conversations in healing.

Music: “Denali” by Bryant Lowry.

Written by Bryant Richard Lowry (BMI).

Published by Boss Soundstripe Productions (BMI).

Licensed via Soundstripe Inc.

Cover Image: Eden Wilday (edenwilday.com)

Follow: @fromexperience_ or @biancaleewelsh

Resources

Through the Unexpected - information and a list of support options for parents faced with prenatal diagnosis.

Pink Elephants Support Network - offers online grief support and information for miscarriage.

Red Nose or SANDS offers 24/7 telephone grief support on 1300 308 307

Bears of Hope - offers grief support on 1300 11 HOPE or via email: support@bearsofhope.org.au

**All of the above have specific TFMR pages

PANDA - Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia - supports the mental health of parents and families during pregnancy and in their first year of parenthood - or 1300 726 306.

Lifeline - 13 11 14

Heartfelt - volunteer organisation providing professional photographers to families who have experienced the loss of a baby or child living with serious or life threatening illness.

Books

The 4 books I ordered after leaving hospital:

The Grief Companion by Ngaio Parr.

The Baby Loss Guide by Zoe Clark-Coates.

Life After Baby Loss: A Companion and Guide for Parents by Nicola Gaskin.

Miles Apart by Annabel Bower (Note this is Australian!).

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:55 Why a Grief Podcast?

02:14 Acknowledging Sensitive Topics

03:18 Introducing the First Episode

04:02 Meet My Husband, James

05:14 Our Parenting Journey

05:59 Deciding to Have Another Child

08:36 The Pregnancy Journey

11:35 Discovering Complications

15:32 Facing the Diagnosis

19:48 Navigating the Unknown

24:45 The MRI and the Hard Decisions

54:25 The Final Decision

57:36 The Decision and Its Aftermath

58:51 Navigating the Psych Assessment

01:06:42 The Feticide Procedure

01:18:42 The Birth and Meeting Herb

01:34:33 Saying Goodbye and Returning Home

01:44:34 Reflections and Healing

01:48:19 Conclusion and Support

Trailer: Why would I do a grief podcast?

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:49:00 +1100

So why would I do a grief podcast and what might I add to the vast podcast world? A little bit in to my why before the release of my first episode!