In this special crossover episode of Special Chronicles' Unified at Work Series and Mental Health Series, host Daniel Smrokowski welcomes fellow United Airlines employees Melinda Riddle and Donna Paggi for a powerful conversation about grief, resilience, mental health advocacy, and hope. Melinda Riddle, Assistant Manager of Inflight, co-founder of UMatter, and volunteer with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), shares how the loss of her stepson Bradley inspired her mission to support others through mental health awareness and suicide prevention advocacy. Donna Paggi, a Customer Service Representative with United Airlines, reflects on the childhood trauma and suicide loss that shaped her life, the challenges of navigating grief and unanswered questions, and the healing that can come through sharing one's story. Together, these conversations explore how personal loss can lead to purpose, why mental health support matters, the impact of community and connection, and how each of us can help create a culture where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Topics Include: Mental health awareness and advocacy Suicide loss and grief AFSP Out of the Darkness Walks UMatter at United Airlines Childhood trauma and resilience Healing through storytelling Workplace mental health support Inclusion, connection, and community Listener Discretion Advised: This episode contains discussion of suicide, grief, trauma, and mental health challenges. If you or someone you know is struggling, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 04:45 Melinda Riddle’s story of profound loss 38:49 Donna Paggi’s story of childhood trauma and suicide loss 59:25 Closing Episode 862 ShowNotes & Links Watch this full episode on YouTube (and subscribe while you there!) Learn about suicide, how you can help prevent it, and resources for those affected, from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Houston Out of the Darkness Walk Sept 26, 2026 Register and Donate: Chicagoland Out of the Darkness Walk Oct 3, 2026 Follow our Unified at Work Series for more conversations in inclusive employment 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support the independent media with Special Chronicles+ PLUS and enjoy perks like bonus content. Your PLUS membership helps us continue producing inclusive stories elevating disability voices, and creating meaningful conversations weekly. Special Chronicles+ PLUS is more than monus content -- it's a way to support the mission and be part of the community that keeps these stories alive. Join Now starting at $10 and learn more at: SpecialChronicles.com/PLUS 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About Our Team: Daniel Smrokowski, Founder Darian Packard, Content Producer Adam Smrokowski, Business Manager Linda Smrokowski, Copy Editor Georgia Hunter, Video Podcast Host click here to meet more of our team
