A Guide to After Life – Details, episodes & analysis

In this conversation, Dr. Sara Johnson, a clinical psychologist and a widowed parent, shares with us her experiences and challenges of navigating relationships after the loss of her husband, Rory.

Sara shares with us her journey of coping with grief, managing her own emotions while also having to look after others as well as the difficulty of adjusting to a new identity as a single parent. She discusses the lack of resources and narratives available for widowed parents and the specific challenges they face.

In the conversation, we explore the complex and multifaceted nature of relationships after loss. We think about the process of recreating one's life after such a profound loss and the challenges of forming new relationships. We delve into a discussion about what it means to be ready to start dating after loss and discuss a recipe for a healthy relationship. Sara advises us on the importance of transparency and honesty from the very beginning.

We focus on the unique dynamics of dating after loss and the delicate balance of comparing new partners to our late partners. We explore the challenges and complexities of blending families and delve into the dynamics of dating as a solo parent and the difficulties of navigating new relationships while still grieving. We highlight the importance of open communication, acceptance of conflicts, and creating space for multiple relationships to coexist.

The secret of a healthy blended family is a large dose of patience, understanding, and willingness to work through challenges rather than shying away from them.

You can find out more about Sarah Johnson here:

Would you like to know where you are in your grief journey:? Take part in a free First-aid course for Grief: https://griefmot.guidetoafterlife.com/

More information and free resources on grief: https://www.guidetoafterlife.com/ 

Welcome to A Guide to After Life, your go-to podcast for the young and widowed. This is your weekly space to help you live through grief. I’m your host, Dr Monika Wieliczko, a psychologist and your fellow widow.

I’m bringing psychological skills to boost your resilience and help you make room for life while you grieve. Listen in to insightful conversations with grief experts and those touched by a profound loss. Together, we challenge the way people think about grief, offering hope of life after loss.

Expect honest stories of loss and creative ways to overcome grief challenges. We tackle common widowhood issues such as relationships, parenting, dating, and social isolation. Each episode gives you access to hand-picked resources and tips on difficult emotions, upsetting symptoms, where to seek support and how to help children grieve. Join the conversation and become a part of the grief revolution.

You can find us on Spotify, Apple Podcast or your favourite podcast app. You can also subscribe to my Newsletter so you don’t miss out on the first episode on 3rd September.