Normalising discussions about healing from grief
At the heart of every community lies a shared experience, one that transcends culture, age and background: the experience of loss and grief. Yet, despite its universality, discussions surrounding grief often remain shrouded in stigma and silence.
Here at Griefline, we believe it’s time to change the narrative. We are embarking on a journey of courageous conversations, engaging with leaders, organistions, and communities to normalise discussions about loss and grief. Through their stories, we aim to illuminate the human experience, fostering empathy and understanding while reducing stigma associated with grief.
Want to have a courageous conversation with us?
We would love to hear your story.
Connect with us if you have a story to share, that may help others during a time of grief or loss.
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Moira Junge – My story of grief, sleep, and the paths they’ve led me on
Grief taught me early on how fragile and vital sleep is — and how essential it is to our ability to cope, regulate emotions, and begin healing.
Chris’s story of spiralling pain and slowly rising again
After the unexpected death of his son, grief hit Chris like a tidal wave — overwhelming and all-consuming. It led to a breaking point, but also a turning point. Through connection, community, and supporting other bereaved parents, Chris found a way to live with the pain and honour his son’s memory.
Catherine’s story: From loss to legacy
After surviving a life-altering car crash and then experiencing the sudden death of a close friend, Catherine Ashton found herself at a crossroads — grieving not only the people she loved, but also parts of her identity. In response, she founded Critical Info, a social enterprise helping Australians prepare for the inevitable, navigate loss, and reduce the burden of confusion for those left behind.
Daniel’s story: Grief, mental health, and the courage to feel it all
When Daniel’s niece was lost at sea just weeks after the death of his best friend, the grief hit like a tidal wave. “Living with bipolar disorder has meant a lifetime of suicidal ideation,” he says. “I couldn’t see why my niece should die so young while I still live.” What followed was a journey into the depths of emotional pain — and a new, honest relationship with grief.
Natalie’s story: Finding healing through art after loss
When Natalie’s husband died by suicide, she was left navigating unimaginable pain while supporting her children and managing daily life. Through art, she found moments of relief — and a path to helping others heal.
Georgia’s story: Grief, migration, and memory: honouring our ancestors through ritual
For many in culturally diverse communities, grief is more than emotional, it’s ancestral, collective, and ritualised. For Georgia, traditional practices like lighting a kandili and preparing koliva remain vital connections to family, culture, and identity.
Cassandra’s story: Grief cracked me open — and helped me rebuild.
When Cassandra was 30 weeks pregnant, her world shattered. In the space of a few months, she lost her husband, her uncle, and — later — the career she’d built over 15 years. This is how she learned to live with grief and transform it into purpose.
Saurabh Mishra’s journey from death to life
In this episode of Griefline, Marianne Bowdler interviews author Saurabh Mishra about his book My Wednesdays – From Death to Life. Saurabh introduces Circle Day, a transformative initiative focused on meditation, volunteering, and community giving, highlighting the connection between self-care and service. He shares insights from his palliative care experiences, exploring concepts like a “good death,” deathbed phenomena, and the significance of surrender, all enriched by spiritual wisdom. Tune in for this enlightening conversation!
Transforming workplace grief support
Grief doesn’t end when you return to work. Join Griefline ambassadors Stephanie Chiu, Sally Douglas, and Imogen Carn as they share their deeply personal stories and survey insights, shining a light on the urgent need for better workplace support for grieving employees. Discover practical steps your organisation can take to foster a compassionate work environment.
Supporting humans through grief: the role of pet palliative care
Losing a pet can be as profound as losing a human loved one, but support is often scarce. Join Griefline’s Louisa Smith and Dr. Jackie Campbell of Sunset Vets for a crucial discussion on pet palliative care. Discover how Sunset Vets supports families through end-of-life care, the impact of pet grief, and involving children in the process.
Navigating grief on the frontlines: supporting emergency services personnel
In our conversation with the CEO of the Emergency Services Foundation, Siusan MacKenzie, we explore how emergency services personnel face grief and loss on the job and its impact on their daily lives. Discover their coping strategies, the effects of global crises, and vital support programs.
Conversations on courage: a retired officer’s journey to resilience
Griefline’s Bryan Petheram interviews Keith Banks—best-selling author, dynamic public speaker, and transformative coach. Keith believes true thriving comes from genuine connection and breaking down mental health stigmas. His approach teaches us to accept and address our trauma, crafting happier, more fulfilling lives, and becoming better individuals—whether as partners, employers, or positive contributors to our world. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful discussion.
Supporting young people to navigate change in the wake of natural disaster
In this powerful discussion, join Godelieve Hofman-Verkuyl from MacKillop Seasons and Dr Meaghan Vosz from Southern Cross University as they delve into the often overlooked but crucial topic of supporting children and young people in the aftermath of disasters.
Navigating widowhood: a journey through grief and healing
Rebecca Adams, CEO of First Light Widowed Association, opens up about her personal experience with loss. She is joined by Louisa Smith from Griefline and grief coach Rachel Pope to discuss the profound impact of community support during times of grief. Together, they explore the struggles and sources of hope that can emerge from widowhood, emphasizing the importance of sharing stories and connecting with others. This discussion provides valuable insights for anyone seeking understanding, compassion, and a path to healing.
Debunking grief myths: understanding the truth behind healing
Time doesn’t heal all wounds, and not crying doesn’t mean you’re not grieving. Discover why sudden mood changes don’t signal the end of grief and why both children and adults experience it deeply. Let’s embrace a more compassionate understanding of this personal journey as Griefline’s Marianne Bowdler and NALAG’s Cathy Banks debunk grief myths in our latest Courageous Conversation.