Episodies

Nothing Happens For A Reason is a podcast offering an unfiltered look at grief, loss, and navigating life after profound heartbreak. Host Claire Andrus, a griever as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), creates a space free from empty f*cking platitudes, acknowledging the messy reality of grief and fostering connection through shared experiences. Join Claire as she challenges the societal discomfort around discussing grief through interviews with amazing guests to explore the often-lonely journey of grief.

This conversation dives into the painful journey of grief experienced by a mother, Carol, after the loss of her only child to terminal cancer. Carol shares her emotional struggles, the complexities of navigating grief, and the impact of her son's death on her identity, mental health and sobriety. Through her story, Carol highlights the challenges of societal expectations around grief, the importance of honoring one's pain, and the eventual path to rediscovering some hope. 

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Carol continues her story of how an unexpected hobby became a source of hope and purpose during her darkest times, after the death of her only child. Carol discusses the challenges of navigating social situations while grieving and the transformative decision to move to the Pacific Northwest. Our guest emphasizes the importance of connection, personal growth, and the ongoing nature of grief.

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This conversation explores the deep bond between the host of Nothing Happens for a Reason (NHFAR), Claire, and her best friend, Frankie, as they discuss the complexities of grief. Through shared experiences, they reflect on the importance of vulnerability, support, and the evolution of their friendship during challenging times. The discussion highlights pivotal moments that shaped their relationship and the ways they learned to show up for each other amidst the emotional turmoil of loss, and why it is important to not take things personal. In this conversation, Claire and Frankie discuss the transformation due to loss, the ongoing presence of grief, and how to ultimately integrate it into their friendship.

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In this insightful part 1, NHFAR host Claire sits down with Alyssa Zander, codependency coach and host of "Codependency Alchemy," to unravel the intricate relationship between codependency and grief. They'll cut through common misconceptions, spotlight the crucial role of accountability, and uncover how the mother wound can shape our connections. Discover why self-compassion and strong community support are essential anchors on your healing journey. 

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In this Part 2 conversation with codependency and relationship coach Alyssa Zander- she opens up about her own path through self-discovery and the multifaceted nature of grief. This episode beautifully unpacks themes of codependency and connecting with your inner child.  Alyssa allows us to be witness to a powerful shadow work practice where she explores her own emotional currents surrounding her painful conception journey and embracing the necessary process of grieving- all while rediscovering the transformative power of play. Tune in to understand healing not as a destination, but as a continuous journey of nurturing your deepest self. 

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This episode isn't just about singular events; it's about understanding grief in its many forms. Join me for a powerful interview with Lotus, LCSW, as we explore the intricate journey of grief and loss. We'll delve into deeply personal experiences, examining the impact of childhood trauma, the pain of losses to suicide, and the complexities of navigating relationships shaped by addiction.

We confront the societal taboos that often surround death, emphasizing the vital importance of feeling and processing grief rather than suppressing it and how we can discuss death with children. Lotus also shares their personal journey of finding their identity outside of chaos, highlighting the ongoing process of self-discovery and healing that unfolds over a lifetime. Ultimately, we discuss how open conversations about loss are essential for fostering connection and ultimately, find true belonging. 

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In this conversation, Claire hosts friend and fellow therapist Brandi, to discuss the impact of grief and loss on their lives, particularly in the context of family dynamics and personal relationships. Brandi shares her experiences of losing significant caregivers shortly after turning 40, which forced her to confront her own mortality and the complexities of grief. The discussion delves into the emotional responses to loss, the challenges of navigating family relationships during times of grief, and the importance of communication in end-of-life planning. Brandi also reflects on her role as the executor of her father's estate, highlighting the emotional and logistical burdens that come with such responsibilities. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the necessity of having difficult conversations about death and grief, and the importance of recognizing and processing one's own emotions in the midst of loss.

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This conversation delves into the critical aspects of estate planning, emphasizing its necessity for individuals of all ages and wealth levels. Estate Planning Attorney, Samantha Baker,  discusses the importance of planning for guardianship, incapacity, and the various legal documents involved, including wills and trusts. She debunks common myths surrounding estate planning and the significance of healthcare directives and powers of attorney, providing a comprehensive overview of how to prepare for the future and how to best help those that we leave behind. 

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This episode dives into the emotional challenges of anticipatory grief when a loved one has a progressive illness. Join me, your NHFAR host, and my good friend and fellow therapist, Kelly, as we explore the impact and emotional toll of witnessing their decline. We'll open up about the anxiety, guilt, and shame often involved in this under-discussed and frequently misunderstood topic.

We'll highlight the crucial need for support and open communication, as well as how to navigate those incredibly difficult decisions about care. A key point we emphasize is the importance of finding a grief therapist, as not all therapists specialize in this unique area and might overlook its complexities. Finally, we'll touch on perhaps the hardest question of all: How do we say goodbye when we don't know if it's the last time?

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Navigating grief means confronting difficult dates. This episode with NHFAR host and counselor, Maya, dives into the unspoken truths of grief anniversaries and birthdays after losses. We explore the immense pressure to "do it right," the phenomenon of "grief math," and how our bodies often react before our minds. We share about the misconception that things "get better" after the first year, and the new waves of grief that emerge when loved ones are no longer present.

Join us to explore the complexities of grief, its non-linear nature, and the vital role of community. We discuss coping mechanisms, from "soul dogs" to tattoos, and emphasize the need for open conversations and shared understanding. If the calendar feels like a challenge, this episode offers a space to connect and reflect.

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