Growth, Community, and Support for Families ft. Marny Williams Boladis (#038)

The holiday season is often called "the most wonderful time of the year," but for many, it’s anything but. Instead, it can bring a swirl of heavy emotions and bittersweet memories. In this more sombre, heartfelt episode (very off-brand for us – we know!), we dive into how grief and the holidays often collide, shaping everything from traditions to mental health. In this quickie episode, we touch on: How grief manifests during the holidays Strategies for reimagining traditions and creating space for emotions, whether joyful or sorrowful Meaningful ways to support grieving loved ones, both during the holidays and as the new year begins This episode is a gentle reminder that grief and love often coexist. We wish you the holiday season that you need, and we can’t wait to see you in the New Year.   Additional Resources: Supporting your mental health during the holidays – https://www.samhsa.gov/blog/supporting-your-mental-health-during-holiday-season Facing the New Year when you are bereaved – https://www.vitas.com/family-and-caregiver-support/grief-and-bereavement/holidays-and-grief/facing-the-new-year-when-you-are-bereaved Facing the New Year after the death of a loved one – https://boomingencore.com/facing-a-new-year-can-be-difficult-after-the-death-of-a-loved-one-e20939aa-01c6-4a23-adf1-4c200d251346  Setting your intentions for the new year – https://www.hospiceaustin.org/grief-and-healing-setting-your-intentions-for-the-new-year/  Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe. Background music by Oleksii_Kalyna from Pixabay.

Have you ever wondered why we carve pumpkins, dress up, and celebrate all things spooky on Halloween? In this episode, Maria dives deep into the fascinating history of Halloween, exploring how this beloved holiday evolved from ancient traditions to the playful celebration we know today. What You’ll Learn: The origins of Halloween in ancient Celtic and Roman festivals How Samhain traditions influenced today’s Halloween customs The history behind trick-or-treating, costumes, and jack-o'-lanterns How Halloween transitioned to a community-focused celebration in the 20th century Discovering medieval traditions like “souling” and “guising” and their connection to modern Halloween activities Important Links: Historical information on Samhain and Celtic traditions – https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/samhain The origins of jack-o’-lanterns and traditional turnip carvings – https://www.history.com/news/history-of-the-jack-o-lantern-irish-origins IMAGES: Absolutely terrifying turnip carvings that would ward off any evil spirit: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/when-people-carved-turnips-instead-of-pumpkins-for-halloween-180978922/ Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe. Background music by SOULFULJAMTRACKS from Pixabay.

What does it take to navigate the evolving bereavement sector and make informed decisions about death care services? In this episode, Maria sits down with David Brazeau, communications manager at the Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO), to explore the changing landscape of funeral homes, crematoriums, and consumer protection in the death care industry. David shares his journey from journalism to his current role at the BAO, where he focuses on education, communication, and public awareness. They discuss topics like alternative death care practices, including alkaline hydrolysis, and the importance of the preservation of historical cemeteries. David also emphasizes the importance of consumer rights, accessibility through social media, and how the BAO’s digital magazine, Beyond, aims to demystify the bereavement sector for the public. What you'll learn: What the Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) does to protect consumer rights in the death care industry An introduction to alternative death care options like alkaline hydrolysis (aquamation) and green burials The importance of preserving historical cemeteries and what that process looks like Insights into the regulation and oversight of funeral homes, crematoriums, and cemeteries How storytelling and education through platforms like Beyond magazine help inform the public ----more---- Links: Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO): thebao.ca Beyond Magazine: https://thebao.ca/beyond-bao-magazine/ Funeral, Burial, and Cremation Services Act – https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/02f33 Radical Death Studies – https://www.radicaldeathstudies.com/ Hidden cemeteries of Essex County hold Underground Railroad history via CBC – https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/hidden-cemeteries-essex-county-1.4513193 Why these historians are restoring the graves of former slaves via TVO – https://www.tvo.org/article/why-these-historians-are-restoring-the-graves-of-former-slaves Respecting and remembering those buried in Canada’s first Black Cemeteries via BAO – https://thebao.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Beyond_June2021.pdf   Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe.

Have you ever wondered how to make estate planning easier or how often you should update your will? In this episode, Maria sits down with Apeksha Jain, a wills and estates lawyer at Sorbara Law, to answer some of these questions. Apeksha offers practical advice on handling probate, finding trustworthy legal counsel, and making estate planning less overwhelming. She also shares her thoughts on the emotional and ethical sides of estate litigation and explains how the Legacy Expo helps open up vital conversations about death and planning for the unexpected. Join us for this insightful episode that breaks down estate planning into clear, actionable steps! ----more---- What you'll learn:  The importance of keeping your will updated and when to revisit it Ways to navigate complex estate disputes and the probate process Why a human-centered approach is crucial in estate planning Practical tips for simplifying legal jargon and making informed decisions The ethical considerations in estate litigation and how to establish trust with legal counsel How estate planning empowers individuals and families to prepare for life’s transitions Resource Links Sabera Law: saberalaw.com How to update a will in Canada – https://www.willful.co/learn/codicils-amendments-and-changing-a-will How to change a will (US) – https://www.legalzoom.com/articles/how-to-change-a-will Glossary of legal terms: US – https://www.uscourts.gov/glossary & CDN – https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/rp-pr/cp-pm/eval/rep-rap/12/lap-paj/p7g.html What are the five components of estate planning? – https://www.davistoftlaw.com/what-are-5-components-estate-planning/ Estate Planning Check Sheet (CDN) – https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/canada/financial-consumer-agency/migration/eng/resources/educationalprograms/ft-of/documents/financial-planning-4-9-eng.pdf Estate Planning Fact Sheet (U.S) – https://finred.usalearning.gov/assets/downloads/FINRED-EstatePlanning-FS.pdf Legacy Expo – https://thelegacyexpo.com/  Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe.  

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Maria sits down with Marny Williams Boladis, the founder of the Hummingbird Center for Hope, a support group dedicated to widowed parents. Marny shares her personal journey of grief and the unique challenges faced by widowed parents and children. Together, they discuss the importance of peer support, recognizing grief moments, and providing practical advice for sole caregivers. Marny also shares her hopes and goals for Hummingbird Center.   What You’ll Learn: The unique challenges faced by widowed parents and how to support them. The importance of peer support and recognizing moments of grief. How the Hummingbird Center for Hope is expanding its services across Canada. Insights into the upcoming Legacy Expo and the role the Hummingbird Center will play. Resource Links: Legacy Expo – https://thelegacyexpo.com/ Hummingbird Center for Hope – https://hummingbirdcentreforhope.com/ Donate today to Hummingbird Center for Hope – https://hummingbirdcentreforhope.com/donate/ Important Programming – https://hummingbirdcentreforhope.com/programming/ Grief and Children – https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Children-And-Grief-008.aspx Grieving while parenting – https://www.care.com/c/grieving-while-parenting-tips-for-coping/ Grieving while parenting II – https://mentalhealthmatch.com/articles/grief/grieving-while-parenting Helping children deal with grief – https://childmind.org/article/helping-children-deal-grief What to Say and What Not to Say to a Grieving Parent – https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/700childrens/2023/07/grieving-a-child When a loved one dies – https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/death.html People Say I'm A Grief Expert, But When My Friend's Husband Died, I Did Something I Deeply Regret – https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-help-grieving-friend-death_n_63c073b8e4b0fe267cb83d4d Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe.

In this episode, Maria chats with Laura Lavallee, CEO of Evergreen Hospice, about the importance of inclusivity, representation, and individualized care in end-of-life support. They explore the challenges of running a non-profit, managing community support, and adapting to the changing needs of an aging demographic. Laura shares her personal journey into hospice care, her plans for Evergreen’s expansion, and the need for legislative changes to better support palliative care in marginalized communities. What You’ll Learn: The importance of inclusivity and culturally competent care in end-of-life support. How Evergreen Hospice is adapting to the needs of marginalized communities. The challenges of running a non-profit organization reliant on community support and donations. Laura's insights into changing the narrative around grief and death, and her plans for expanding Evergreen’s services. Resource Links: Evergreen Hospice – https://www.evgcares.org/ Evergreen Hospice Gala – https://www.evgcares.org/post/throwback-thursday-a-blast-from-the-past-gala Donate to Evergreen Hospice Today – https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/18791?v2=true Evergreen Hospice Programs – https://www.evgcares.org/services-and-programs Disenfranchised Grief: When no one seems to understand your loss – https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/disenfranchised-grief Disadvantaged and disenfranchised in bereavement: A scoping review of social and structural inequity following expected death – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0277953619305945 LGBTQ+ Grief: Challenges and Barriers – https://elunanetwork.org/resources/lgbtq-grief-challenges-and-barriers Disenfranchised grief in queer companionship and chosen family – https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2647&context=etd Legacy Expo Information – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-legacy-expo-ii-tickets-909330641427 The Relentlessness of Black Grief – https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/09/relentlessness-black-grief/616511/ Community Conversation: Grief Through the Lens of Black Communities – https://elunanetwork.org/resources/community-conversation-grief-through-the-lens-of-black-communities Radical Death Studies – https://www.radicaldeathstudies.com/ What to Know About Disenfranchised Grief – https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/what-to-know-about-disenfranchised-grief Grief and loss: An inclusive approach – https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/blog/grief-and-loss-an-inclusive-approach/ Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe.  

In this episode, Maria chats with Stacey Brown, Director of Soaring Spirits Canada, about her journey through widowhood and the incredible work her organization is doing to support those experiencing grief. They dive into the challenges faced by widowed individuals, the need for improved bereavement policies, and the importance of peer support in finding strength after loss. Stacey also shares some exciting updates, including plans for Soaring Spirits’ expansion across Canada.   What You’ll Learn: Stacey’s personal journey through widowhood and the struggles she faced as a young widow. How Soaring Spirits is providing essential support and community for widowed individuals. The importance of peer support in navigating grief and loss. Updates on bereavement leave policies and the need for greater support in the workplace. Exciting future plans for Soaring Spirits Canada. Resource Links: The Legacy Expo – https://thelegacyexpo.com/ Soaring Spirits International – https://soaringspirits.org/ Camp Widow – https://campwidow.org/ Camp Erin – https://camperintoronto.com/ The Widowhood Effect – https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/relationships/the-widowhood-effect/article33344335/ Widowhood: Decades of change – https://www.bgsu.edu/ncfmr/resources/data/family-profiles/carlson-schweizer-widowhood-decades-change-1940-2018-fp-20-23 Widows are younger than you think – https://rethinking65.com/2022/09/07/widows-are-younger-than-you-think/ Widowed Village – https://widowedvillage.org/ Grief: The Overlooked Brain Injury Symptom – https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/the-resilient-brain/202203/grief-the-overlooked-brain-injury-symptom Healing Your Brain After Loss: How Grief Rewires the Brain – https://www.americanbrainfoundation.org/how-tragedy-affects-the-brain/ Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe.

How can we better prepare for (un)expected health crises and ensure that our end-of-life wishes are respected? In this episode, Maria sits down with Carly, a critical care nurse and founder of Ace Planning Company, to explore these important questions. Carly shares her journey from the front lines of critical care to founding a company dedicated to helping families navigate healthcare planning. They discuss the importance of advanced care planning, the gaps in the Canadian healthcare system, and the emotional toll on healthcare providers. Carly emphasizes the need for proactive conversations about aging, illness, and end-of-life planning, and the benefits of preparing for these discussions early. Throughout the conversation, Carly highlights the significance of financial planning, the importance of educating the second generation, and her efforts to destigmatize these crucial conversations. She also introduces her upcoming product launch, which is designed to support families during challenging times. Join us for an enlightening discussion on how we can better prepare for the (un)expected, support our loved ones, and ensure our healthcare wishes are honoured. Relevant links: Ace Planning Company – http://aceplanningcompany.com Carly's Services – https://www.aceplanningco.com/services A lack of financial planning predicts increased mortality risk: Evidence from cohort studies in the United Kingdom and United States – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10529586/ Emotional Responses and Support Needs of Healthcare Professionals after Adverse or Traumatic Experiences in Healthcare—Evidence from Seminars on Peer Support – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10178493/ Dying with Dignity Canada – https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/ Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe.  

In this heartfelt discussion with Lori, a nurse deeply involved in bereavement care and part of the Bereavement Ontario Network, we explore how the pandemic has reshaped our approach to grief and legacy planning. In typical Maria fashion, they cover topics that include children's grief to the evolving practices in healthcare settings and the broader implications for societal views on aging and end-of-life planning.  Discover the emotional and practical aspects of creating legacies that transcend traditional wills, and learn about the invaluable resources offered by the Bereavement Ontario Network. What You’ll Learn: Insights into how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected bereavement processes Strategies for discussing grief with children and the importance of legacy beyond financial assets The role of healthcare organizations in acknowledging and supporting grief among staff and patients Understanding Takotsubo syndrome and how emotional stress can impact physical health Important Links Mentioned in the Discussion: Join the next Legacy Expo – https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-legacy-expo-ii-tickets-909330641427 Bereavement Ontario Network – https://bereavementontarionetwork.ca/ What is Takotsubo syndrome? – https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/takotsubo-cardiomyopathy-broken-heart-syndrome Understanding the physical symptoms of grief – https://www.healthline.com/health/grief-physical-symptoms How grief shows up in your body – https://www.webmd.com/balance/grief-stages-special-report/20190711/how-grief-affects-your-body-and-mind Bereavement During Childhood and Adolescence – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK217849/ Bereavement experience after the death of a child – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK220798/ Long-Term Effects of the Death of a Child on Parents’ Adjustment in Midlife – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2841012/ Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe.

How can AI help preserve personal narratives and foster intergenerational understanding? In this episode, Maria sits down with Rafi, the entrepreneurial mind behind StoriedLife AI, to explore this and other questions. They discuss how artificial intelligence is innovating senior care by enabling seniors to share and preserve their life stories. They discuss the challenges and potential of AI in healthcare and personal narrative preservation, as well as the importance of maintaining privacy and security in digital interactions. Join them for an engaging discussion about the power of storytelling, the innovative use of AI in preserving personal histories, and the importance of integrity and customer-centricity in business. What You’ll Learn: How Rafi's entrepreneurial spirit led him to create Storied Life. The benefits and challenges of using AI to support seniors in sharing their personal narratives. The potential of AI to monitor health, enhance social engagement, and serve as a tool for intergenerational learning. Important considerations in data privacy and security when dealing with sensitive personal information. Important Links Mentioned in the Discussion: StoriedLife – http://storiedlife.ai AI in Senior Care – https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2024/01/30/ai-to-benefit-humanity-innovations-in-senior-care/ The Power of Personal Narratives – https://medium.com/@thehistorychip/the-power-of-personal-narratives-e4e46b6fd84c#:~:text=Preserving%20Personal%20and%20Collective%20History&text=Whether%20it's%20an%20individual's%20account,to%20learn%20from%20and%20cherish. Data Security and Privacy in AI – https://www.eset.com/za/about/newsroom/press-releases-za/blog/understanding-the-role-of-ai-in-online-privacy-data-protection Philotimo Life episodes are now recorded in Miraki Life Workspace, a creative co-working space that fosters community and collaboration. Be sure to follow Philotimo Life on Instagram at @philotimolife and sign up for our newsletter at philotimolife.com/subscribe.