Creating Space for Grief & Hope

Creating Space for Grief & Hope
  • 5.0 (9)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
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Welcome to Creating Space for Grief & Hope with Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist Holly Gainsboro and Creative Grief Coach Elizabeth Catignani. Here you’ll find support, wisdom, stories, and practical tools for your unique healing journey. We believe that grief and hope coexist and empowers us as we heal and grow. We invite you to subscribe and join us each month for a new episode. To learn more about our hosts please visit their websites at: www.hercreativewellness.com (Elizabeth); www.goldenheartgrief.com (Holly)

  1. Fascinating Insights into Grief Dreams with Dr. Joshua Black

    AUG 21

    Fascinating Insights into Grief Dreams with Dr. Joshua Black

    In this episode, Holly welcomes Dr. Joshua Black, a leading grief and bereavement researcher, for a fascinating conversation about the role of dreams and grief. Joshua explains the different types of grief dreams - those with or without the deceased - and how they reflect a person’s emotional state. He shares how dreams can bring comfort, highlight unresolved pain, or surface as distressing nightmares, along with strategies for working through them. Holly and Joshua also discuss cultural perspectives, dream recall, and his grief dreams worksheet, offering meaningful insights into how dreams can support healing after loss. Joshua Black, PhD, is a grief and bereavement researcher, speaker, educator, and host of the Grief Dreams Podcast. He holds a master’s degree in psychology from Trent University and a PhD in psychology from Brock University. His research has focused on dreams and waking experiences of the deceased, continuing bonds, bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and bereavement in the context of homelessness. As a leading academic expert in grief dreams, which can involve dreams of the deceased, Joshua has dedicated his efforts to raising awareness about this intriguing phenomenon through his website, podcast (with over 230 episodes), social media (link), and media interviews. He is dedicated to raising awareness of those who are bereaved who are not being provided with the necessary bereavement support. Currently, Joshua works as the Bereavement Initiative Manager at the BC Centre for Palliative Care, where he leads bereavement-related research. You can learn more about Joshue here: Website: https://www.griefdreams.ca Podcast: https://www.griefdreams.ca/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefdreams Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support& Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com

    46 min
  2. To Date or Not to Date…

    JUL 16

    To Date or Not to Date…

    Join Holly and Elizabeth as they discuss the topic of dating after the loss of a spouse or life partner, emphasizing that there is no right or wrong time to start dating and the importance of listening to one's own intuition. They share their personal experiences with dating after losing their spouses, highlighting the challenges and support they encountered along the way. Both women emphasized the importance of taking time for oneself, making decisions at one's own pace, and finding a supportive partner who respects one's grief journey.   Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support& Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach andcertified grief educator. Following the death of her latehusband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on herwebsite: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com

    26 min

  3. JUN 17

    Child Life Specialist Jessica Correnti on Grief, Healing, and Hope

    I’m honored to welcome Jessica Correnti to the podcast today. Jessica is a certified Child Life Specialist and grief expert who brings both professional insight and deeply personal experience to our conversation. She shares her journey through multiple pregnancy losses and how those experiences have shaped her compassionate approach to grief support. We explore the importance of validating grief, creating lasting memories, and nurturing continuing bonds after a loss—especially in the context of child and family bereavement. Jessica also offers a closer look at her work with children facing difficult experiences and discusses the helpful tools and books she’s created to support both kids and adults on their grief journey. Jessica Correnti is a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS), author, bereaved mom, and grief specialist. She has written four children's books: The ABCs of Grief, The ABCs of Grief: Emotions & Feelings, Forever Connected, and the forthcoming third and final book in The ABCs of Grief series (title to be released soon, publishing in early 2026).  She is the founder and owner of Kids Grief Support, a private practice providing therapeutic sessions to grieving children and families across the globe through expressive activities, developmentally appropriate diagnosis and grief education, and other support to aid in processing and coping with various grief experiences.  As a leading expert in children’s grief, her work has been featured in Oprah Daily, People Magazine, Motherly, CNBC, Good Morning Washington, New York Family Magazine, Great Day Washington, and others. You can find Jessica on Instagram @kidsgriefsupport and www.kidsgriefsupport.com. Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support& Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach andcertified grief educator. Following the death of her latehusband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com

    50 min

  4. APR 22

    From Grief to Purpose: A Son's Tribute to His Mother

    In this heartfelt episode, I welcome friend and fellow advocate Shawn Carey, who opens up about the devastating loss of his mother, Wendy, to glioblastoma. From the early days of her misdiagnosis to the strength she displayed throughout her illness, Shawn reflects on the legacy Wendy left behind. Together, he and Holly talk candidly about navigating terminal illness, the unique grief of losing aparent, and how honoring a loved one’s memory can take many forms. Shawn shares how his advocacy work has helped him find healing—and how the brain tumor community, though born of tragedy, has become a place of deep connection and purpose. Shawn Carey is a dedicated advocate and former care partner for his mother, Wendy, who passed away from Glioblastoma in 2018. Since her passing, Shawn has worked to bring meaningful change for brain tumor patients and their care partners. Focusing on the care partner experience, he regularly advocates on Capitol Hill for increased funding to further research and treatment options. Through his advocacy work, Shawn has partnered with many organizations, including StacheStrong and the National Brain Tumor Society.  Shawn earned his Bachelors degree from Wilkes University in Communications Studies and currently works as a public relations and communications professional. His past professional experience includes financial services, product marketing and most recently healthcare. He currently resides in Binghamton, NY.  Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com

    41 min

  5. MAR 20

    Exploring Grief and Anger

    Join Holly and Elizabeth as they discuss when anger arises on one's grief journey. Although not experienced by everyone, anger is not unusual when grieving. Anger is often a protection mechanism for underlying feelings, and it’s important to acknowledge and honor what is coming up for you. Holly and Elizabeth share their own experiences with anger, why anger may surface in relation to loss, as well as helpful tools and techniques for releasing anger in a healthy and supported way. Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support& Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach andcertified grief educator. Following the death of her latehusband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has madeit her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com

    16 min

  6. FEB 26

    A Mother’s Grief & Finding Meaning Through Glioblastoma Advocacy

    Join me as I welcome my dear friend and guest, Holly Richard, as she shares her personal story of losing her son to glioblastoma, finding a supportive community during the grieving process, connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences, and finding purpose in her pain. Holly’s grief inspired her to write a book, One Hundred and Twenty-Six Days, The Unthinkable Journey, about her heartbreaking experience. Holly Richard has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). She served as President & CEO of Tammy Lynn Center for eight years, leading strategic growth and expanding services. After the loss of her son, Derek, to glioblastoma in 2019, she became an advocate for brain cancer research and published One Hundred and Twenty-Six Days, The Unthinkable Journey (available on Amazon). Currently, she is Special Projects Advisor for The Arc of North Carolina. Holly also serves on the Board of Advisors for Duke’s Tisch Brain Tumor Center and advocates for improved services for both the IDD and brain cancer communities. Here are several helpful resources that Holly recommends: Facebook Page for D-Rex Defenders Facebook Page Brain Tumor-Loss of a Child/Children Website for D-Rex Defenders Team for Angels Among Us Saturday, April 26, 2025 Holly Richard’s Book: One Hundred and Twenty-Six Days, The Unthinkable Journey YouTube Channel for D-Rex Defenders Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (⁠available on Amazon and Audible⁠) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You canlearn more on her website: ⁠https://www.hercreativewellness.com

    36 min

  7. JAN 15

    Navigating Grief Through New Year Transitions

    As we step into a new year, the passing of time can feel especially heavy for those experiencing grief. In this episode, Holly and Elizabeth explore how the New Year impacts the grieving process, sharing personal stories and practical strategies to help listeners find a balance between difficult emotions and hopeful moments. The episode features a transformative four-part reflection exercise designed to help listeners process their grief in the New Year. The questions are: 1. What is one thing you would like to hold onto from 2024 and bring with you into the new year? 2. What is one thing you would like to release from 2024? 3. What is an intention or goal you would like to set for 2025 (not to be confused with a resolution)? 4. What is one way you would like to honor your loved one in 2025? Holly and Elizabeth offer thoughtful guidance on approaching these questions, emphasizing the importance of self-care and flexibility. They also share their own answers and encourage you to answer them for yourself. Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com

    23 min

  8. 11/21/2024

    Navigating the Holidays with Grief: Compassion, Traditions, and Self-Care

    In this heartfelt episode Holly and Elizabeth dive into the challenges of navigating the holiday season while grieving. They share practical tips, from choosing traditions to creating space for emotions, and explore how to find support and comfort during this time of year. Whether your loss is recent or years ago, this episode offers compassionate guidance, self care strategies, and gentle reminders that there’s no “right” way to grieve. Tune in for insights to help you approach the holidays with grace and self-kindness. Holly Gainsboro, founder of Golden Heart Grief Support & Education, is a certified grief support specialist/coach and certified grief educator. Following the death of her late husband, Steven, Holly felt pulled to be present for others experiencing their own losses—not just pertaining to death, but any event that may result in a grief response. She guides those who have suffered losses by helping them navigate their way through grief, transitioning them to a place of joy and hope. Holly also facilitates grief support groups, and grief education workshops. She is thrilled to co-host Creating Space for Grief & Hope with her dear friend and colleague Elizabeth Catignani. You can learn more on her website: https://www.goldenheartgrief.com Elizabeth Catignani is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Certified Creative Grief Coach, and founder of the online platform Her Creative Wellness. After experiencing baby loss and young widowhood by the age of 27, Elizabeth has made it her mission to support and empower others on their own unique path through loss and healing. She is the author of “Creative Grieving: A Hip Chick’s Path from Loss to Hope” (available on Amazon and Audible) and “The Creative Grieving Workbook” (now available on Apple Books). You can learn more on her website: https://www.hercreativewellness.com

    14 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
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About

Welcome to Creating Space for Grief & Hope with Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist Holly Gainsboro and Creative Grief Coach Elizabeth Catignani. Here you’ll find support, wisdom, stories, and practical tools for your unique healing journey. We believe that grief and hope coexist and empowers us as we heal and grow. We invite you to subscribe and join us each month for a new episode. To learn more about our hosts please visit their websites at: www.hercreativewellness.com (Elizabeth); www.goldenheartgrief.com (Holly)

Information

  • Creator
    Creating Space for Grief & Hope
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Creating Space for Grief & Hope
  • Show Website
    Creating Space for Grief & Hope

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