The Things They Left Behind

**Season Finale: *The One Where We Wrap It Up***After 20 episodes of laughter, chaos, honesty, and more than a few tears—we’ve reached the end of Season 1. In this final episode, we take a look back at what we’ve covered, what we’ve learned, and the moments that meant the most to us.From funeral disasters to ghost stories, from serious chats to the truly unhinged—we’re so proud of the little griefy corner of the internet we’ve created.But most of all, we want to say a *huge* thank you. Whether you’ve listened to every episode, dropped us a message, or just stumbled across us along the way—your support has meant the world. Truly. We started this podcast to feel less alone, and it’s ended up connecting us to so many brilliant, kind, funny humans. We’re so grateful.See you soon for Season 2…

Grief isn’t always somber—it can be awkward, absurd, and downright hilarious. In this episode, we delve into the unexpected comedy that arises in the darkest moments. From funerals gone awry to the cringe-worthy things people say when they don’t know how to handle loss, we explore how humour can be a coping mechanism in the face of grief. Join us for a candid discussion filled with laughter, vulnerability, and the chaotic reality of navigating life after loss.

This week, we’re joined by Beth’s self-proclaimed “emotional support human” Sam, who opens up about losing her dad to motor neurone disease.From navigating the early days of his diagnosis to juggling life, care, and the emotional weight of it all, Sam shares her story with honesty, warmth, and the kind of humour that gets you through the really tough bits.We talk about trying to keep life feeling “normal” when it’s anything but, the quiet heartbreak of watching someone you love change, and the comfort of finding people who just *get it*.Sam’s dad’s song was *Sweet Love* by Anita Baker—so that’s where this one gets its name.It’s a tender one, but there’s laughter too. Have a listen.

In this week's episode, we dive deep into the powerful influence of the women (and men) who helped raise us—especially in the absence of our fathers. From the loss of those father figures to the strong, resilient people who stepped in, we reflect on the lessons learned. Whether it’s changing a tyre or just how to girl boss in general, they’ve equipped us with the tools to navigate life with strength, courage, and unshakable confidence. Tune in for an empowering conversation about the people who helped us grow into who we are today.

Do robins, feathers and repeating numbers mean something more… or are we just clinging to anything that feels like a sign?In this episode, we’re diving into the signs we think we’ve had from the other side—those little moments that stop us in our tracks and make us wonder. Whether it’s the same song popping up again, a perfectly timed breeze, or a weird coincidence we just can’t explain, we’re chatting about what we’ve seen, what we want to believe, and how comforting it can feel to imagine they’re still with us in some way.And, of course, it wouldn’t be Bye Dad, Hello Chaos without a twist—Beth once had to banish a ghost from her house. Yes, really. We told you it got spooky...

Therapy—sometimes it’s life-changing, sometimes it’s awkward, and sometimes you get told you don’t need it anymore… because you’re just showing up for fun (Alice, we’re looking at you).This week, we’re talking about our experiences with counselling—how we got there, what we expected, and whether it actually helped. Beth saw a school counsellor, while Alice went privately after realising she needed support. We also chat about the reactions we got from others, the unexpected ways we’ve found our own versions of “therapy,” and whether we’d recommend it.We’re also sharing some charities and social media accounts that we’ve found helpful, because sometimes, the right support makes all the difference.Home - MindIt's TimeHome SUPPORTING BEREAVED CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE - Grief EncounterWinston's Wish - Bereavement Support for ChildrenSchools - Cruse Bereavement SupportSome socials for you all:Zoe (@griefismynewhobby) • Instagram photos and videosMarshall Exler (@marshallexler) | TikTokTalk Grief | Winston’s Wish (@talkgriefuk) | TikTok

This week, we’re joined by Beth’s lovely boss, Kelly. She lost her dad a little later in life while also being a single mum to two kids—so her experience was *very* different from ours. And, as it turns out, her dad had quite the story himself.He lived three separate lives (yes, really) and was living abroad when he died, meaning Kelly had to navigate grief across borders. From unexpected discoveries to dealing with loss as an adult (and a parent), this one’s full of perspective, emotions, and, of course, chaos.Oh, and in *very* important news—Alice and Kelly were trying to remember the word *repatriated*, and Beth, brimming with confidence, decided to step in and help. The only problem? She was *very* wrong. Let’s just say she won’t be living this one down anytime soon...

A few weeks ago, we sat down with The Mothers of All Chaos—but now it’s time for the dads… or at least, it would be, if we could actually ask them. (Note the name of the podcast.)There are so many things we wish we’d asked when we had the chance. Some deep, some lighthearted, and some that are just plain ridiculous—but now, we’re left with the should’ve, would’ve, could’ve of it all.What advice would they have given us if they knew they wouldn’t be here now? What’s the one thing they’d tell us now if they could? And, most importantly, would they wholeheartedly support this podcast… or be absolutely horrified by what we’ve overshared?It’s part reflection, part frustration, and full of the usual chaos.

Some things are just things. But when they belonged to them? They become everything.This week, we’re talking about the objects, the memories, and the little things that still connect us to our dads. Beth’s dad left behind a love for technology (and plenty of gadgets), while Alice’s dad was more of a pen and paper kind of guy. Their music tastes still live on in our playlists, and somehow, the most random objects—things they touched, used, or loved—now hold the biggest meaning.It’s sentimental, a little funny, and a reminder that even when they’re gone, the things they left behind can still make them feel close.

⭐ A bonus episode for a bonus boy. ⭐This one’s for the horse girlies—and anyone who’s ever had that one pet who was more than just a pet.Beth’s horse, Star, wasn’t just a companion; he was there through the hardest times, offering comfort in a way only animals can. In this bonus episode, we’re dedicating some time to him—his life, his last day, and what it’s been like for Beth since saying goodbye.It’s emotional, it’s honest, and it’s a reminder that grief doesn’t just apply to people. Some animals change our lives forever, and Star was one of them.