Grief & Grit

Navigating the Layers of Secondary Losses

In this episode of Grief & Grit, Greer Mendel and Simonie Levy explore the concept of secondary losses, the unexpected changes that follow the death of a loved one. Beyond the immediate grief, these losses—like the loss of future dreams, financial security, and support systems—can quietly reshape your life.
Greer and Simonie share personal stories about the challenges they faced, from losing the vision of a shared future to navigating the sudden burden of financial responsibilities. They also touch on how a profound loss can shift your identity as a parent or spouse, and shatter hopes for the future, adding new layers of grief. These secondary losses can feel overwhelming, whether it’s the loss of your emotional rock or your sense of self. 
The hosts offer guidance on recognizing and coping with these layered losses. They encourage listeners to lean on support systems, rebuild dreams, and focus on emotional well-being. Whether you’ve lost a spouse, a child, a friend, or even a job, this conversation reminds us that secondary losses deserve recognition and healing.  

Seasons Change: Grief, Growth and Finding New Traditions

As the seasons change, so do our emotions, especially when navigating grief. In this episode of Grief & Grit, hosts Greer Mendel and Simonie Levy reflect on how each season stirs memories of their late husbands while offering insight on coping with the emotions that accompany these transitions.
Greer shares how fall, once filled with excitement over football and family traditions, now feels different without Jarrod. Simonie discusses how winter, once a season of joy, became marked by the memory of Mark’s cancer diagnosis and passing. Through their personal experiences, they offer advice for others facing the changing seasons while grieving.
Topics covered include: 
Creating new traditions to replace painful memories
Practicing self-care during emotionally heavy seasons
Embracing small joys and moments of comfort
Finding ways to grow and heal through grief
This heartfelt conversation reminds listeners that grief, like the seasons, evolves. With time, new traditions and moments of joy can emerge, helping us move forward even while we continue to honor our loved ones.
🎧 Listen in for an honest discussion on finding balance, resilience, and healing through each season of grief.  Visit us at @griefandgritpodcast and www.GriefandGritPodcast.com.

Surviving the First "Firsts" & Milestones that Follow: Greer

In this moving episode of "Grief & Grit," hosts Greer Mendel and Simonie Levy continue their exploration of navigating the first year of loss and the significant milestones that follow. Greer recounts her journey after the sudden passing of her husband, Jarrod, detailing the emotional challenges of holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries. 
 
Greer and Simonie offer tips for those at the beginning of their grief journey, emphasizing the importance of self-care, creating new traditions, and allowing oneself to feel and express emotions. Their conversation underscores that there are no rules for grieving—everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s okay to navigate it in your way.
 
Join us for an honest and supportive discussion about surviving the first year of loss and the ongoing milestones that shape the journey.

Surviving the First "Firsts" & Milestones that Follow: Simonie

In this poignant episode of "Grief & Grit," hosts Greer Mendel and Simonie Levy reflect on the challenging journey through the first year of loss and the milestones that follow. Simonie shares her experiences after the passing of her husband, Mark, including navigating holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries. The discussion touches on the overwhelming emotions that arise and the realization that milestones bring both joy and sorrow.  
 
Listeners will find empathy and understanding as Simonie and Greer candidly discuss survivor's guilt and the bittersweet nature of life’s milestones without their loved ones. Join us for an honest conversation about surviving the first year of loss and the ongoing journey of living through the milestones that follow.
 

Pros & Cons of Social Media While Grieving

This week on "Grief & Grit," we delve into the intricate role of social media in the grieving process. It can be a crucial tool for connection and support, yet it also has the potential to evoke painful emotions. We explore both the benefits and drawbacks of using social media while grieving and provide practical tips for managing your online presence effectively.
Join us for a candid discussion that blends empathy, humor, and practical advice, helping you navigate the pros and cons of social media while grieving.  

Meet Greer Mendel

Today on Grief & Grit, join us for an intimate episode featuring our inspiring co-host, Greer Mendel. Greer shares her powerful journey through resilience, love, and loss. As the grandchild of Holocaust survivors, the sister of someone with a developmental disability, and a devoted wife and mother, Greer's story is a testament to enduring strength. 
She opens up about her experiences with adversity, including losing her first pregnancy, the joy of welcoming two healthy children, and the tragic day her husband, Jarrod, passed away suddenly, leaving her a widow with two young kids at the age of 38.
Greer discusses navigating widowhood, raising young kids, and the importance of community. She reflects on normalizing conversations about grief to help others find strength in their journeys.
Listen in for heartfelt insights, personal reflections, and a message of hope as we get to know Greer Mendel and her incredible story of overcoming life's toughest challenges with grace and grit. 

Meet Simonie Levy

Today on Grief & Grit we share an up close and personal episode featuring our inspiring co-host, Simonie Levy. 
Simonie's journey began in high school when she met her soulmate. Their friendship blossomed into love, and they married, starting a family. Amid political unrest in their home country, they moved to the USA and expanded their family further.
Tragically, her husband was diagnosed with leukemia and passed away, leaving Simonie a widow with young children. Faced with immense grief, she had to navigate life without her partner while supporting her kids.
Simonie's journey through grief has been marked by resilience and strength. She learned to embrace each day, focusing on being present for her children and finding joy in the little moments. Her experience taught her the importance of living in the moment and appreciating life's simple joys.
Simonie co-founded this podcast with Greer to create a supportive community for those experiencing grief and loss. Join us for heartfelt advice, support, and a touch of sass and humor as we navigate this reality together. 

Introducing Grief & Grit: From Heartache to High-Fives with a Dash of Sass

In this debut episode of "Grief & Grit: From Heartache to High-Fives with a Dash of Sass," hosts Simonie Levy and Greer Mendel invite you into their world of navigating grief with both courage and a light heart. They share their backstories, reveal the moments that brought them together, and explain the passion behind launching this podcast. Learn how "Grief & Grit: From Heartache to High-Fives with a Dash of Sass," came to be and what this series aims to explore. Expect an honest conversation filled with insights and inspiration for anyone looking to understand the complexities of grief with a dose of compassion and occasional humor. Join Greer and Simonie as they lay the foundation for a podcast that promises to support, enlighten, and empower.