My amazing guests this season included sisters Kara Millerhagen & Kjersten Dysthe, Dr. Jane Oh, Wendy Benning Swanson, Dr. Joel Carter, Joy DiVincenzo, and Brian Muller returned to the studio for a second time. All of these conversations were unique, powerful, and thought-provoking.

As the show goes into a hiatus, I encourage you to take the time to listen to any shows you missed, or listen again to your favorites. If you haven’t listened to older shows, or if it’s been a while, here are the recaps of the previous two seasons, as promised on today’s episode:

This Side of the Grass: Reflections on Season 1 - on Spotify

This Side of the Grass: Reflections on Season 2 - on Spotify

Please be generous and share your favorite episode or two with a friend or loved one, and rate or review the show on your favorite podcast platform to help it grow. Thank you for listening!

If you have feedback or ideas, I’d love to hear from you as I plan what’s next for the show! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3episode12 #seasonfinale #reflections #positivereframe 

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Joy’s positivity, heart, and motherly wisdom shine through in the lessons she shares with me from this time in her career that affected her on a deeply personal level. Listen with tissues handy, and maybe even a notebook and pen. There are so many thought-provoking nuggets in this episode that I know it’s one I’ll listen to again and again.

Please be generous and share this episode with a friend or loved one. I would also appreciate if you rate and review the show on your favorite podcast platform to help it grow. Thank you for listening!

If you have feedback or ideas, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3episode11 #complicatedloss #unresolvedissues #lifelessons 

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Whether you're watching your child walk across the stage, remembering your own graduation, or simply moving through a season of change, this episode invites you to think about what it really means to live fully on this side of the grass.

Please be generous to share this episode with a graduate that you love, and please also consider rating or reviewing the show to help it grow. Thank you for listening!

If you have feedback or ideas, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3episode10 #forthegraduates #graduations #newbeginnings #phasesoflife

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Joel Carter is an accomplished Palliative Care specialist, author, storyteller and artist. Dr. Carter transitioned to Palliative Care in 2002 after being awarded a Bush Medical Fellowship by the Archibald Bush Foundation to pursue interests in End of Life Medicine and Physician Leadership. He completed his fellowship at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard University and training at the Physician Leadership College at the University of St. Thomas.

The quote Dr. Carter shared was by Leslie Marmon Silko, “I will tell you something about stories…”

References from today’s show:

• Dr. Carter’s TEDx Winnipeg talk, “Meaning, Purpose and Stories at the End of Life”: https://youtu.be/6inEsa7DCUM
• Dr. Carter’s books: Lava Lamp Lessons, by Joel Carter & Rockpeople: Beyond Chester Creek, by Joel Carter

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3episode9 #drjoelcarter #palliativecare #thepowerofstories

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

She found her purpose through a winding journey after significant loss in her life – not only her parents, but her first husband, Steve. This loss was significant and sudden, leaving Wendy as a widow in her early 30s with a 1-year-old son, and unending questions about why. After their son got a little older, he started to share with Wendy that he could see his dad. These observations, as well as other signs that seemed out of the ordinary, brought up more questions about what happens to us after we die. Wendy’s quest for knowledge took her on retreats and meditations, and eventually to the Modern Mystery School where she started to find answers to her questions. 

She shares with me today how she now helps others to find their healing and align with their Divine Potential. As she states so beautifully during our conversation, “This is just one stop on our journey, but an important one.” 

References from today’s show:

• Learn more about Wendy and her healing practice here: wendybenningswanson.com
• Wendy's first book, "Finding Joy After Loss; My Journey Through Grief" on Amazon

Be sure to search “Wendy Benning Swanson” on Amazon in the Summer of 2025 (and beyond!) for her new book about her spiritual journey.

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3episode8 #wendybenningswanson #mystical #findingjoyafterloss

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

In his professional life as a financial advisor, Brian owns Momentous Wealth Advisors. His podcast, called Wealth Decisions by Brian, can be found on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Listen here: Wealth Decisions by Brian podcast, on Spotify

But Brian is more than a financial advisor, business owner and podcast host. He’s a dad, partner, son, friend, musician, pickle-ball enthusiast, and intentional human who has developed the M.A.D.E. Life framework to help others to live more intentionally, meaningfully and in a purpose-driven way. His book is sure to help many, many people! “Momentous Decisions” will be out in August of 2025. Pre-order here: Momentous Decisions: 7 Steps to Better Health, More Wealth and a Richer Life by Brian D. Muller, Hardcover | Barnes & Noble®

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3episode7 #momentousdecisions #wealthdecisions #MADELife #healthiswealth

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Because physicians are trained to heal and fix, educating more physicians about this as an option sooner is another challenge that Dr. Oh faces in her field. She speaks to how the hospice team is not just there for the patient, but also for the family of the individual that is looking for healing beyond the physical. And the options go beyond just keeping someone comfortable at the very end of life! 

“What’s most important to you if something happens?” is a great question to start this conversation while you have the opportunity. Please share this important episode with your loved ones!

Podcast episodes mentioned in the show:

Healthcare Documentation - This Side of the Grass episode with Katie Novak, R.N.

A Process for Finding Purpose: Do THIS to Build the Life You Want - Mel Robbins

A Perspective on Death at the End of Life - This Side of the Grass episode with Val's Grandmother

Books mentioned in the show:

The Four Things That Matter Most – Ira Byock, MD

Being Mortal - Atul Gawande

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3episode6 #hospice #endoflifecare #comfort #options #beingmortal

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

After losing Alisa to a brief and tragic battle with cancer in 2018, these remaining two sisters were in a holding pattern with their remaining family, ultimately also losing their dad to cancer in late 2024. In the wake of these losses, this talented duo has found their new voices in helping others going through grief. Be sure to listen until the very end, as they sing a live version of their original song, “Windflower.”

Links mentioned in the show:

Blaze Orange is the New Black, by Sister - Highlights on YouTube

Sister’s album, “Child” on Spotify

Consistency vs. Motivation

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3episode5 #sisters #music #windflower #waterinminnesota

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Go down the Survivor rabbit hole with me today, as I dissect this game as it relates to control – and control as it relates to life, death and everything in between. I’d venture to guess that most conversations about death and dying are uncomfortable. My hope today is to have a bit more of a light-hearted, yet thought-provoking, conversation to perhaps shift your mindset when the world around you feels out of control.

More about Survivor: Official website of Survivor, on CBS

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode4 #survivor #outwitoutplayoutlast #control #agency

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

It feels way too big to think of your life’s purpose when there are day-to-day struggles that keep you from even wanting to get up in the morning. Life is hard, struggle is real, and overwhelm can feel never-ending. But you are NOT alone. 

You are amazing. And if you don’t feel that way, find an accountability buddy to help build you up, check in on you, and continue to encourage those little things that help to move the ball down the field of life, even if only inch by inch: take a walk, savor a cup of coffee or tea, drink water, and find time for a few deep breaths. You can do this! 

Links mentioned in the episode:

This Side of the Grass, Episode #13, about the milestones and anniversaries that sometimes your body remembers before your brain does: "Milestones & Anniversaries" on Spotify

Mel Robbins episode about struggle and overwhelm: If You’re Feeling Uncertain & Anxious, You Need to Hear This - Mel Robbins

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3 #strugglebus #overwhelm #youarenotalone #staypositive

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

1. Set realistic goals – smaller goals are more likely to be achieved and start the momentum. In loss, this is being okay with small steps as you navigate your new reality post-loss.
2. Find an accountability partner – find someone to help you set the goals above that can help you, and encourage you. In loss, this could be finding someone who can be your confidant, and support system for you.
3. Celebrate small wins – don’t forget the compound value of smaller wins stacked. We can correlate this to loss, it’s important to acknowledge the steps you accomplished from day to day, especially when it’s soon after the death of a loved one. 
4. Be self compassionate – giving yourself grace when there are tough days. This is the hardest thing in loss, but one of the most important pieces. It’s part of the process to feel the darkness.

*The list above was curated from multiple “Quitter’s Day” tip lists found on Google.

Links mentioned in the episode:

First-time marathoners are disproportionately represented by “nine-enders”

This Side of the Grass, Episode #19, about my fitness journey, with my favorite motivational and encouraging phrases: "Look Back to Move Forward" on Spotify

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3 #newyearnewyou #nationalquittersday #dontgiveup

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

On today’s episode, I discuss re-framing “Why me?” into “Why NOT me?” This mental shift and awareness can be a game-changer. 

The first time I remember making this switch was during a presentation I gave to a women’s leadership group a few years ago, before my brother passed away. I experienced the imposter syndrome of “Why Me?” during a professional opportunity, and actively re-framed the second guessing of “Why did they invite me?” to, “This is where I am supposed to be! Why NOT me?” 

As struggle happens in life, both in loss and as we navigate challenges that living brings, a shift in perspective can give us more intentional thoughts, actions and choices. The “Why me?” can become “Why NOT me?” in the best way possible! We have a shared experience of humanity, and the unique opportunity to acknowledge our mortality. Let’s use it in a positive way!

Links mentioned in the episode:

This Side of the Grass, episode 5: Tim Vossen & Bethany Winters discuss Life Insurance

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#season3 #whyme #whynotme #perspective #gratitude

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

After participating in a live group Zoom with David Kessler ahead of Mother’s Day, I knew I wanted to share some learnings and great takeaways for these dates that are just hard. This is totally normal and expected, and though everyone processes in a different way, you are not alone!

I explore the feelings that these dates bring up, I give my own checklist of things that may help to navigate milestone dates like holidays and birthdays:

1. Breathe

2. Move your body

3. Be direct if there is something that you need

4. Honor your loved one

5. Let the day be the day

References in this episode:

The Book ‘Finding Meaning’, by David Kessler. https://grief.com/sixth-stage-of-grief/

The five stages of Grief, according to the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross model: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. These do not happen in any sort of order!

Mel Robbins episode about finding the space in your body to send breath. “The Toolkit for Healing Anxiety, Part 1”: https://www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/episode-56 

The book 'The Five Invitations' by Frank Ostaseski

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode13 #milestones #anniversaries #DavidKessler #justbreathe 

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

On today’s episode, I share how I used the learnings from that podcast to help process my feelings, and I encourage you to listen to this episode too, linked below. Trauma expert Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald, PhD, helps Mel Robbins to answer the question as to why we are so affected by trauma that did not directly impact us. Even if you have not yet had something like this happen, chances are high that you will at some point be indirectly (or directly!) impacted by a death in a community you belong to: a classmate, coworker, in your church, or in your neighborhood. 

Thank you for allowing me to assign meaning to this experience by sharing these lessons with you.

References in this episode:

Episode #92 of ‘The Mel Robbins Podcast’, with trauma researcher Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald, PhD. https://www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/episode-92

The Book ‘Finding Meaning’, by David Kessler. https://grief.com/sixth-stage-of-grief/

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode6 #trauma #witnessingtrauma #burnsvillestrong #supportfirstresponders

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Proudly recorded and produced by DevineFox Productions!

My guest today is Tara Paul, who is no stranger to loss. We met through our sons, but I felt drawn to her as I read her honest and vulnerable posts on social media. Her mother died tragically in a car accident 15 years ago, and she lost her husband, Vrydon, to pancreatic cancer just one year ago. She shares those stories and more with me as we talk about how to navigate these people that we miss in a special way around the holidays.

While those memories of the loved ones already gone do hurt, I want to remind you that there is still love and joy to be found. If you are grieving and being reminded of loss this holiday season, I am sending you peace and love as you navigate all the emotions of the holidays. As former guest Kelly Grosklags so beautifully reminds us, be gentle with yourself.

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode30 #bonusepisode #thanksgiving #holidaygrief #lossduringtheholidays #emotions

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Nicole shares the history of how this program began, and the heart-breaking prevalence of how many children are affected by the loss of a parent or sibling before the age of 18, especially students in BIPOC populations or where household income is lower. Growing Through Grief partners with 16 school districts in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, as well as western Wisconsin, to provide a no-cost resource that comes to children in their schools to provide support.

Grief is so difficult, no matter what the age – but dealing with it as a child, adolescent or teen makes the tough milestones of just growing up that much harder. Growing Through Grief provides a safe place for these children to feel heard, loved and less alone as they work through their pain.

If you’re not in the geographic region supported by Growing Through Grief, there are similar programs available throughout the country. Check for your local resource through the National Alliance for Children’s Grief: https://nacg.org/

References in today’s show:

This Side of the Grass, Episode 10 - Putting Pain Into Purpose, with Brian Muller

Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief, by David Kessler

Additional resources from Nicole:

Coalition to Support Grieving Children

Brighter Days Family Grief Center

The Grief Club of Minnesota

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode29 #bonusepisode #growingthroughgrief #nationalchildrensgriefawarenessday

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

You may recall that Season 1 had the threads of “Finding Meaning” (be sure to check out David Kessler’s book if you haven’t yet!  Finding Meaning, the Sixth Stage of Grief) and having conversations before it’s too late. This season has really been about “Connections.” On today’s show, I reflect on how the last 13 episodes have brought about so many connections; of themes, people and relationships.

Thank you to all my guests this season, who have given their time to share stories, experiences and expertise with all of us! Returning guest Steve Messick took a deeper dive into Trusts; Katie Novak explained additional healthcare documentation for end of life; Mike Zinda, Lis Klein and Melissa MacPhail shared their stories of loss; Mike White provided insight into what to expect from a funeral home and what planning can be done; Micah Webb spoke from the heart and educated us about becoming an organ and tissue donor; and Sam Devine, Dan Neitz and my Grandma Dorothy Waska helped to share unique perspectives on death and dying. Last but certainly not least, Kelly Grosklags shared her beautiful wisdom and perspective that helped me be open to signs – and I share a story with you today about a dream that would never have meant anything without our conversation.

There is so much more to come with this show and the topic of preparation for life’s inevitable conclusion. Thank you for being a part of this with me, and please keep watching and listening for what comes next!

Referenced on this episode:

The Mel Robbins Podcast: Simple Life Hacks That Will Change Your Future (Steal These Habits from Billionaires)

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode28 #season2 #connections #findingmeaning #grateful

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

I learned of LifeSource following the death of my brother, Dan. Micah educates me further on how impactful this organization is from start to finish in the donation process, some myths and common misconceptions, and how powerful one donor’s gifts can be! Micah has her own story of loss that propelled her into this impactful career.

While this episode is very informative and was intended to be so, I was surprised to find that this was also a powerful and emotional topic, and I appreciate Micah’s time to explain what an incredible gift it is to be a donor.

Here are some additional links from LifeSource: 

• Anyone can register to be an organ donor. To register, visit life-source.org/register or check the box at your DMV
• Watch this video to learn more about the donation process.
• The latest from LifeSource (questions, myths, stories, and more).

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode27 #organdonation #tissuedonation #beadonor #lifesource

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

As I recap the checklist that we’ve had throughout all 25 episodes so far (wow!), I break it down to be more manageable, and hopefully actionable. You are definitely not alone if you haven’t gotten too far yet, or even started. This Side of the Grass Checklist

As you go through my list, or even if you have a checklist for another task that you’ve been avoiding, assess the feelings that are connected to the list and try to separate them from the tasks themselves. It’s a blessing if the checklist works for you and is helpful, but could feel like a curse when it brings up negative feelings. A checklist is not the feelings or the actions; it’s just a tool. Additionally, know that the “checklist” may not be the best tool for you!

You are not alone, and I know you can do this!

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode26 #checklists #gainmomentum #startwithone #youcandothis

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Our conversation makes its way to the importance of signs from those who have died, the magnitude of speaking the names of our loved ones who are gone, and how their relationships to us and our love for them did not die with them. Love and grief are connected, and it is so important to be gentle with ourselves in the grief space, no matter how long it’s been since they have passed away.

As noted in the disclaimer today, there was an audio card issue with our main microphones, so sincere apologies that the episode does not sound as crisp, clean and intimate as previous episodes – but this was not a conversation we could have ever replicated, and I wanted you to hear it. 

References in the episode:

Kelly’s website, Conversations with Kelly: conversationswithkelly.com 

Kelly’s books: A Comforted Heart (2017) and When Love Meets Grief (2024)

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode25 #conversationswithkelly #saytheirnames #acomfortedheart #whenlovemeetsgrief

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

This topic is so important, yet it is very hard to discuss. I encourage you to listen with an open mind, grace and love in your heart for family and friends who are still grieving loved ones that died in this way, no matter how long it has been. And if you or someone you know is struggling and considering suicide, please call the suicide and crisis hotline by dialing 988. Help is available.

References in the episode:

As Lis mentioned, here is Steve playing guitar with a friend, recorded February 10, 2008: Flight from Rangoon - Jam session w/ Steve & Brandon (Steve is on the left, in the brown t-shirt.)

Recently heard on the podcast Terrible, Thanks for Asking: https://ttfa.org/episodes - The top two Anthology episodes are the ones I referenced, called “Two Letters- A Widow Remembers Her Husband with Two Letters” and “Stories of Suicide & Loss”.

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode24 #suicide #suicideprevention #nameit #endthestigma

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

On today’s episode, we hear Dan’s story of dying from sepsis, and being brought back to life. His perspective and intentionality of making his life matter had been gnawing at him since he was a child, but nearly dying brought him to a crystal clear realization of his path – a very different path than he had been on. 

If you’d like to learn more about Dan’s work, please visit his website: https://workthecor.com/

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode23 #NDE #neardeathexperience #lifechanging #livelikeyouaredying

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

If you haven’t yet listened to Steve’s first show, released May 30, 2024, here it is:

This Side of the Grass, Episode 11: The Legal Side of Dying

Disclaimer: The information discussed today is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice regarding your individual situation.

Click here for more information about the work that Steve and his firm do, or to reach out to start the estate planning process: Messick Law, PLLP

Additional information on the planning process shared in the previous episode:

Uniform Law / Multi-jurisdictional code

Minnesota Law probate & planning

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode22 #Trusts #Wills #Legacy #estatelaw #estateplanning

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Mike has an amazing vantage point of life, loss and what it is like working daily with families who have experienced loss. He and his sister, Meg, have followed in the footsteps of their father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and are working with the next generation of the White family to continue to carry on their legacy – a truly remarkable achievement for any small business! Mike shares some fascinating history of his industry, as well as practical and helpful insight into what questions to think about when it comes to funeral and visitation planning.

Pre-planning services are available through most funeral homes, and if you are in the Twin Cities, consider joining Meg White Heintze at one of their upcoming events:

– Tuesday, 9/24/24 at 11:00AM, White Funeral Home, 20134 Kenwood Trail in Lakeville, MN.

Presenter:  Meg White Heintze - Pre-planning and Educational Specialist

– Thursday, 10/17/24 at 6:00PM, White Funeral Home, 12804 Nicollet Ave in Burnsville, MN.

Pizza and Preplanning: "You'll feel better when you can say… Everything is taken care of"

This program will include information on Legal Tools (Estate Attorney Carrie Renner), Medical Assistance Planning (Pat Zalusky), and Planning a Meaningful Service (Meg White Heintze)

Click here for more information: White Funeral Homes

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode21 #funeralhomes #preplanning #cremation #burial #conversationsaboutdeath

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Our conversation still centers around end-of-life, and the situation that Sam is experiencing in his life and family right now. 

I was recently a guest on Sam’s show, and you can listen here: Legacy Matters - Val Amsden: Podcastress of Death! 

Laugh along with us as we have a conversation about life, death and legacy.

*Note: The episode mentioned with guest Mike White will be available on 9/5!

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode20 #legacymatters #conversationsaboutlife #conversationsaboutdeath

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

On today’s solo episode, I take a little pivot. Instead of sharing a specific preparation step or lesson learned following the death of a loved one, I share a personal story that helped to change my trajectory and one that has helped me immensely – especially during challenging times. For me, this included the day I lost my brother, but challenging days could be any life-altering event: a break-up, a diagnosis or losing your job. Challenge is all around us, and you are not alone. 

I appreciate you allowing me to share this story and experience with you, and I encourage you to find people who will lift you up and encourage you during challenging life situations and times of loss. 

Coaching podcasts that are referenced on this episode, from two of my favorite coaches:

Into The Roar, with Martin Rooney

The Cross-eyed Bear podcast, with Eric Parent

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode19 #growth #challenge #lessonsfromcoaching #TFW #TFW4life

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

A “Health Care Directive”, prepared by an attorney, is a legally binding document that helps the provider to know what your wishes are, but more importantly, who can make decisions should you be incapacitated.

A “POLST: Provider Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment” is for individuals that are older or have diseases or conditions, and this form allows nurses to NOT administer treatment at the patient’s request, because it is ordered by a doctor. This is signed by the patient or surrogate (i.e. Power of Attorney), as well as the doctor/provider. Read more about this form and how to obtain it: National POLST patient site

Other topics discussed today include: What is your code status? What is palliative care? What is CPR? What do DNR and DNI mean?

We reference the May 30, 2024, episode of ‘This Side of the Grass’ with attorney Steve Messick, who talked briefly about Health Care Directives. Listen to it again (or for the first time!) here: This Side of the Grass: "The Legal Side of Dying: An Interview with Attorney Steve Messick"

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode18 #endoflifecare #healthcaredocumentation #POLST #CPR #DNR #DNI

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Quote by Winnie the Pooh, shared by Mike: “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard?”

In our episode, we reference a few of the previous ‘This Side of the Grass’ episodes. Listen to them again (or for the first time!) here:

Bonding Over Eulogies: A Conversation with Eric Froistad (June 6, 2024)

Milestones & Anniversaries (June 13, 2024)

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode17 #coping #sobriety #prayer #reflection #winniethepooh

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

In our conversation, there are three segments:

1. What she remembers of loss in her early life: her dad died when she was just 7 years old.

2. The loss of my mom and brother, so out of order, as they were her oldest child and oldest grandchild.

3. How she feels about dying, now that she is in her late 90s.

Grandma and her two brothers, also still living at the ages of 99 and 96, recently recorded together on another podcast, sharing stories of growing up in the 1930s and 1940s. Please listen here!

Stories in Life: On the Radio with Mark and Joe. "Wisdom from the Hearts and Minds of Three Siblings: Bill (99) Dee Dee (98) and Fritz Kruschel (96)"

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode16 #perspectivesondying #endoflifereflections #grandma   

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

This Side of the Grass, Episode 1 "My Why"

On today’s “My Why” for Season 2, I share with you a bit more about my grandma, and how her views on dying and preparation have helped to shape what the podcast has become. She will be one of my first guests this season, and several of the topics in future weeks will talk more about the “expected” way of dying: at an older age vs. a terminal illness or unexpectedly, like my experiences with losing my mom and brother.

I share with you the homework I have done in the last 6 weeks outside of the podcast space, as I have a checklist too! Please take a moment to go back to the checklist you started as you listened to previous episodes, revisit the action items that are not yet complete, and decide: what do you want your legacy to be?

Season 2 will have more great guests and conversations, and I appreciate you being on this journey with me!

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode15 #mywhy #season2 #legacy  

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Throughout the last 13 episodes, I have found my voice and the tone of this podcast in real time. Thank you for going on this adventure with me! As I shared my story, I have been humbled and proud to have helped others to share theirs, and look forward to taking some intentional time to reset, regroup and catch up (Note: watch for “This Side of the Grass” on YouTube!) before a new episode drops again on August 1, 2024!

The two threads that wove throughout Season 1, as we explored funerals, obituaries, eulogies, life insurance, legal planning, comparisons and milestones:

1. It is a gift to have these conversations about your wishes and to make plans before it is too late.
2. It’s possible to move forward, and even to find meaning, after loss!

A huge thank you to my guests over the past few months, who trusted me and took a chance on this podcast: Tim & Bethany and Steve, who lent their knowledge on specific subjects; and Sheri, Brian and Eric, who shared their very personal stories of loss that resonated with all of us. 

I cannot wait to see what is in store for Season 2!

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode14 #season1recap #reflections  

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

After participating in a live group Zoom with David Kessler ahead of Mother’s Day, I knew I wanted to share some learnings and great takeaways for these dates that are just hard. This is totally normal and expected, and though everyone processes in a different wayAs, you are not alone!

I explore the feelings that these dates bring up, I give my own checklist of things that may help to navigate milestone dates like holidays and birthdays:

1. Breathe

2. Move your body

3. Be direct if there is something that you need

4. Honor your loved one

5. Let the day be the day

References in this episode:

The Book ‘Finding Meaning’, by David Kessler. https://grief.com/sixth-stage-of-grief/

The five stages of Grief, according to the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross model: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. These do not happen in any sort of order!

Mel Robbins episode about finding the space in your body to send breath. “The Toolkit for Healing Anxiety, Part 1”: https://www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/episode-56 

The book 'The Five Invitations' by Frank Ostaseski

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode13 #milestones #anniversaries #DavidKessler #justbreathe 

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Eulogies include stories of the loved ones we have lost, and Eric is a master story-teller! His dedication to keeping Andy’s memory alive through stories is inspiring, and we hear some amazing ones today! 

Whether you’re thinking of who might someday give your eulogy, if you’ve been asked to give one, or you think about what someone might say about you at your funeral one day, our conversation is a must-listen.

References in this episode:

Definition of a eulogy: www.everloved.com

The 7-Step Guide to writing a eulogy: Abbott Funeral Services

The book 'The Five Invitations' by Frank Ostaseski

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode12 #eulogies #storytelling #legacy #siblingloss 

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Steve walks us through a high level overview of what happens from the legal side of things when you die. The bottom line? Either you have a plan, or the State you live in will provide a plan, not factoring in thoughts, history or feelings of the person that has died. 

Don’t wait until you know exactly what you want done with your assets to start the process of getting your wishes on paper, especially if you have children! Find an estate planning attorney to start the process. Have these conversations with the person you have designated to handle your affairs after you are gone.

Disclaimer: The information discussed today is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice regarding your individual situation.

Question for Steve? He will be back, so email me! val@thissidepodcast.com

References in this episode:

Steve’s firm, Messick Law, PLLC: www.messicklaw.com  

Uniform Law / Multi-jurisdictional code: https://www.uniformlaws.org/home 

Minnesota Law probate & planning: https://www.ag.state.mn.us/consumer/handbooks/probate/ 

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode11 #messicklaw #wills #trusts #estateplanning 

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

I watched via social media as he and his late wife, Amie, went through her public battle with pancreatic cancer in 2016 – having been exposed to toxic burn pits while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, which drew the attention of news outlets – before she passed away as a young mother. This left Brian to navigate his grief and this world of solo parenting his young kids, and try to figure out how to move forward both personally and professionally. 

Today’s episode is incredibly powerful, and my hope is that it provides that reminder of how delicate life is. It is so important to plan and have tough conversations. And also, there are many ways to find meaning and still live life after tremendous loss.

References in this episode:

Brian’s firm, Momentous Wealth Advisors: www.momentouswealthadvisors.com

The Wealth Decisions Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wealth-decisions-by-brian/id1730437363

Brian and his song writing:

“Ladder To The Sky” by Brian David and Jace Muller - YouTube

Songs written by Brian on Grief, Loss & Love - YouTube playlist

Legislation for burn pit victims and their families, passed in 2022: “Deal for Sweeping Toxic Exposure Bill Reached in Senate”: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/05/18/deal-sweeping-toxic-exposure-bill-reached-senate.html

Burn Pits 360: https://burnpits360.org/

Amie Muller health and research program through Burn Pits 360: https://burnpits360.org/blogs/news/announcing-the-tsgt-amie-muller-veteran-health-research-program-and-research-fund

The Grief Recovery Handbook

Growing Through Grief, Health Partners & Park Nicollet Foundation

Green Day - Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) - YouTube

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode10 #thewealthdecisionspodcast #momentouswealthadvisors #amiemullerfoundation

#thisside #thissideofthegrass]]>My guest on today’s episode is Brian Muller: a dad, musician and fellow resident of the Twin Cities. Professionally, he has been in the financial services industry for over 25 years, and recently started his own firm and podcast. He grew up near my husband’s family, so Brian and I have been mutual friends for years! 

I watched via social media as he and his late wife, Amie, went through her public battle with pancreatic cancer in 2016 – having been exposed to toxic burn pits while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, which drew the attention of news outlets – before she passed away as a young mother. This left Brian to navigate his grief and this world of solo parenting his young kids, and try to figure out how to move forward both personally and professionally. 

Today’s episode is incredibly powerful, and my hope is that it provides that reminder of how delicate life is. It is so important to plan and have tough conversations. And also, there are many ways to find meaning and still live life after tremendous loss.

References in this episode:

Brian’s firm, Momentous Wealth Advisors: www.momentouswealthadvisors.com

The Wealth Decisions Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wealth-decisions-by-brian/id1730437363

Brian and his song writing:

“Ladder To The Sky” by Brian David and Jace Muller - YouTube

Songs written by Brian on Grief, Loss & Love - YouTube playlist

Legislation for burn pit victims and their families, passed in 2022: “Deal for Sweeping Toxic Exposure Bill Reached in Senate”: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/05/18/deal-sweeping-toxic-exposure-bill-reached-senate.html

Burn Pits 360: https://burnpits360.org/

Amie Muller health and research program through Burn Pits 360: https://burnpits360.org/blogs/news/announcing-the-tsgt-amie-muller-veteran-health-research-program-and-research-fund

The Grief Recovery Handbook

Growing Through Grief, Health Partners & Park Nicollet Foundation

Green Day - Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) - YouTube

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode10 #thewealthdecisionspodcast #momentouswealthadvisors #amiemullerfoundation

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

DevineFox Productions

I talk through not only what an obituary is, but also the following action items to make sure you have the knowledge to create your own – with all the wonderful opportunities and potential pitfalls to look out for.

Action Items:

1.        Write your obituary, perhaps with a spouse or close friend. Ask yourself the question: How do you want to be remembered?

2.        Print out the letters to all 3 credit bureaus in the PDF linked below, and put them with your documents (printed or online!) that we have already started: password list, funeral wishes, etc.

3.        Listen to this ‘Terrible, Thanks for Asking’ podcast episode, called “Your Favorite Obituaries” from Nora McInerny. It is so powerful! https://omny.fm/shows/terrible-thanks-for-asking/your-favorite-obituaries

References in this episode:

Link: Definition of an obituary - from Wilcox & Regan Funeral Home

Three credit bureaus:

- Equifax: 1-800-685-1111; www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services

- Experian: 1-888-397-3742; www.experian.com/help

- TransUnion (the most helpful, in my experience!): 1-888-909-8872; www.TransUnion.com/credit-help

Letter to send to all three credit bureaus when someone passes away, along with a Death Certificate: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:ac114b24-cf88-48ec-b516-96f511e83bf9

The Podcast, “Terrible, Thanks for Asking” with Nora McInerny: https://ttfa.org/episodes

If you have a topic or guest idea – or would love to share how you found out about this podcast -- I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode9 #obituaries #legacy #TTFA 

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Proudly recorded and produced by DevineFox Productions!

Deciding now what you want done with your online footprint is incredibly helpful to the loved ones that are left behind when you are gone! The action item for this week is to decide the following:

1.  Who should your Legacy Contact be?

2.  What do you want done with your social media footprint once you have died? Those options include memorializing your accounts, or having them permanently deleted.

Here are the step-by-step instructions to set up a Legacy Contact and indicate your wishes, as described for Facebook once you are logged in. (Please note: this was recorded in the Spring of 2024, so keep in mind that these instructions are subject to change!)

How to access Facebook ‘Legacy Contact’ settings via laptop:

Click your profile picture in the upper right – if you hover, it will say “Account”.

Single click to open the menu.

            Click Settings & Privacy – then click Settings.

            Meta Accounts Center, on the left: click “See More” and it will open a new page.

On the left menu click “Personal details”. That will list things like your email and your birthday. The last option is “Account ownership and Control” under which it says, “Manage your data, modify your legacy contact, deactivate or delete your accounts and profiles.” Click “Account ownership & control”.

How to access Facebook ‘Legacy Contact’ settings via phone app:

Click your profile picture to go to Menu.

Across the top will be “Your shortcuts”, then a number of tiles you can choose from including Groups, Memories, etc. Scroll down to “Settings & Privacy” and “Settings”.

At the top should be “Meta Accounts Center.” Click the blue “See more in Accounts Center”.

Select “Personal Details” The fourth option, on the bottom, is “Account Ownership & Control.” 

References in this episode:

Managing a Deceased Person’s Account on Facebook

Report a deceased person's account on Instagram

Contacting X [formerly Twitter] about a deceased family member's account

The Book ‘Finding Meaning’, by David Kessler. Passage called “Living On Online” is on page 218. https://grief.com/sixth-stage-of-grief/

If you have a topic or guest idea – or would love to share how you found out about this podcast -- I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR What happens to our social media presence when we die? And what can we do about it now? I talk through the options available on three of the biggest platforms: Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

Deciding now what you want done with your online footprint is incredibly helpful to the loved ones that are left behind when you are gone! The action item for this week is to decide the following:

1.  Who should your Legacy Contact be?

2.  What do you want done with your social media footprint once you have died? Those options include memorializing your accounts, or having them permanently deleted.

Here are the step-by-step instructions to set up a Legacy Contact and indicate your wishes, as described for Facebook once you are logged in. (Please note: this was recorded in the Spring of 2024, so keep in mind that these instructions are subject to change!)

How to access Facebook ‘Legacy Contact’ settings via laptop:

Click your profile picture in the upper right – if you hover, it will say “Account”.

Single click to open the menu.

            Click Settings & Privacy – then click Settings.

            Meta Accounts Center, on the left: click “See More” and it will open a new page.

On the left menu click “Personal details”. That will list things like your email and your birthday. The last option is “Account ownership and Control” under which it says, “Manage your data, modify your legacy contact, deactivate or delete your accounts and profiles.” Click “Account ownership & control”.

How to access Facebook ‘Legacy Contact’ settings via phone app:

Click your profile picture to go to Menu.

Across the top will be “Your shortcuts”, then a number of tiles you can choose from including Groups, Memories, etc. Scroll down to “Settings & Privacy” and “Settings”.

At the top should be “Meta Accounts Center.” Click the blue “See more in Accounts Center”.

Select “Personal Details” The fourth option, on the bottom, is “Account Ownership & Control.” 

References in this episode:

Managing a Deceased Person’s Account on Facebook

Report a deceased person's account on Instagram

Contacting X [formerly Twitter] about a deceased family member's account

The Book ‘Finding Meaning’, by David Kessler. Passage called “Living On Online” is on page 218. https://grief.com/sixth-stage-of-grief/

If you have a topic or guest idea – or would love to share how you found out about this podcast -- I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode8 #socialmedia #legacy #facebooklegacy #onlinememorial

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Proudly recorded and produced by DevineFox Productions!

Listen in on our conversation as Sheri’s shares stories of loss, we talk about how relationships and friendships change following a loss, and how she is now training to become an end-of-life Doula. 

Quote shared by Sheri at the end of today’s episode:

“In one sense there is no death. The life of a soul on earth lasts beyond his [or her] departure. You will always feel that life touching yours, that voice speaking to you, that spirit looking out of other eyes, talking to you in the familiar things he [or she] touched, worked with, loved as familiar friends. He [or she] lives on in your life and in the lives of all others that knew him [or her].” - Angelo Petri

References in this episode:

Episode #159 of ‘The Mel Robbins Podcast’, discussing frame of reference. https://www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/episode-159-copy-2

The Book “Grief: Day by Day’’, by Jan Warner. https://www.griefdaybyday.com/ 

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode7 #friendshipsafterloss #griefdaybyday #deathdoula #endoflifedoula

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Proudly produced by DevineFox Productions.

On today’s episode, I share how I used the learnings from that podcast to help process my feelings, and I encourage you to listen to this episode too, linked below. Trauma expert Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald, PhD, helps Mel Robbins to answer the question as to why we are so affected by trauma that did not directly impact us. Even if you have not yet had something like this happen, chances are high that you will at some point be indirectly (or directly!) impacted by a death in a community you belong to: a classmate, coworker, in your church, or in your neighborhood. 

Thank you for allowing me to assign meaning to this experience by sharing these lessons with you.

References in this episode:

Episode #92 of ‘The Mel Robbins Podcast’, with trauma researcher Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald, PhD. https://www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/episode-92

The Book ‘Finding Meaning’, by David Kessler. https://grief.com/sixth-stage-of-grief/

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode6 #trauma #witnessingtrauma #burnsvillestrong #supportfirstresponders

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Proudly recorded and produced by DevineFox Productions!

Start these conversations now to make sure your family is taken care of when (not “if”) something happens to you.

Action items:

1. If you think you have life insurance through your job, talk to your HR person to understand the details.

2. Once you know those details, determine how much you need, using the acronym DIE:

            D – Debt

            I – Income

            E – Education

3. Bridge the gap between what you have and what you need. If you do not already have a resource, start by talking to your car or home insurance agent, your bank or an estate planning attorney.

Make sure you know what you are buying! Inexpensive or “discount” insurance policies, typically those you find online, may have fine print. Buy it through a trusted person or agency! 

References in this episode:

Average age of independent insurance agents is 59 years old. Read more here: https://ritterim.com/blog/millennials-and-insurance-sales-the-perfect-match/#modern-marketing-guide

Government payouts to victims of the 9/11/2001 World Trade Center terrorist attacks. Read more here:

https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:05906cb4-19c2-4ab0-b597-ddf44f20e883

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode5 #lifeinsurance #planahead #nowisthetime

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

Proudly recorded and produced by DevineFox Productions!

Action items for this episode, that you should do NOW (no matter your age!):

1. Sit down with your closest loved one; a spouse, sibling, parent, child or trusted friend. Who is the person you would trust to handle everything when you are gone?
2. Start by making them a list of usernames and passwords for any monthly bill payments. This could be a Word document, a Google doc, or even a piece of paper that you handwrite. 
3. Make a contact list of important people that know your information; for example, your bank, your estate planning attorney, and the accountant you might use. “If something happens to me, here’s who to call!”

And remember: preparing yourself for something that may happen sooner than you want it to, or expect that it will, is not the same as manifesting it to happen!

If you have a topic or guest idea, I’d love to hear from you! To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

Proudly produced by DevineFox Productions.

#episode4 #DOntwaIT #whydowewait #haveaplan

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

  1. I was comparing, unintentionally, my grief and loss experience to others – even down to the details of funeral choices. 

  2. “Jealousy” is a very real feeling that is associated with grief, as shown in an image that was shared in a group therapy session I was part of.

Because comparison is normal, give yourself the grace, space and permission to be aware of the natural comparison – then try to let it go. Your journey is not any better or worse than anyone else. 

References in the episode:

“Keeping up with the Joneses” is a phrase coined in 1913 in a comic strip series of that name. The strip depicts the social climbing McGinis family, who struggle to "keep up" with their neighbors, the Joneses, and became the idiom used as a way to express using the comparison to your neighbor as a benchmark for your social class or the amassing of material goods.

The five stages of Grief, according to the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross model: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. These do not happen in any sort of order!

Here is the picture I mentioned that I thought was a brain or ball of yarn, and included all kinds of different feelings that can be associated with Grief, called “a tangled ‘ball’ of emotions”.

Grief Tangled 'ball' of emotions 

To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram!

#episode3 #comparison #keepingupwiththejoneses #fivestagesofgrief

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

In this episode, I share my thoughts on funerals. Yes, they’re important. But you can plan them on your terms! Better yet, planning ahead so you can let loved ones know what you want at your service someday is an incredible gift to them.

To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram! 

#episode2 #funerals #planahead

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions

In this episode, I share my personal story and the reason behind why I started this podcast. Both my mom and brother died too young, in two very different ways: my mom to cancer after a four-plus year battle when she was 57, and my brother to a heart condition unexpectedly and suddenly when he was 44. These experiences have taught me the importance of planning for the inevitable, even though it’s scary and uncomfortable.

To reach me, send me an email: val@thissidepodcast.com, or find me at “This Side of the Grass” on Facebook OR Instagram!

#episode1 #mystory #mywhy

#thisside #thissideofthegrass #thissidepodcast

#death #dying #grief #life #hope #passion #purpose #preparation

#devinefoxproductions