Grief, Burnout, and Compassion Fatigue: Navigating Emotional Exhaustion

In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, addresses the intersection of grief and burnout, particularly focusing on compassion fatigue. She discusses the exhausting nature of grief and the additional strain of caregiving roles, providing practical strategies for managing and protecting one's energy. Dr. Taylor also shares a personal story of burnout to illustrate the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and prioritizing rest. She offers actionable steps like lowering daily expectations, saying no more often, and building intentional rest to combat burnout while emphasizing the necessity of self-compassion.

00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

00:28 Understanding Grief and Burnout

01:27 Signs of Burnout and Compassion Fatigue

03:56 One Personal Story of Burnout

08:42 Strategies to Combat Burnout

18:49 The Guilt Loop and Importance of Rest

20:31 Conclusion and Resources

---------------------------------------------------------

Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

-------------------------------------

Opening Music by The Dadicorns

Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

All Rights Reserved.

This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.

Grieving the Person They Never Were

In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor addresses a rarely discussed aspect of grief - mourning the version of a person that never existed. From unfulfilled roles and emotionally distant relationships to unresolved anger and relief, she explores the complex emotions that arise when grieving those you wished had been different. Dr. Taylor emphasizes the validity of these feelings and offers strategies to process this unique type of grief, including acknowledging the loss for what it is, letting go of the need for an apology, and granting oneself permission to feel a range of emotions. Tune in for an insightful, compassionate discussion on validating your grief, even when it doesn't fit the conventional mold.

00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

00:23 Understanding Complicated Grief

01:35 The Complexity of Grieving Unfulfilled Relationships

07:04 Strategies for Processing Complicated Grief 13:20 Challenging Misconceptions About Grief

14:25 Final Thoughts and Resources

----------------------------------------------

Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

-------------------------------------

Opening Music by The Dadicorns

Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

All Rights Reserved.

This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.

Navigating Grief and Cancer Through Children's Eyes: A Conversation with Irma Prosser

In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor welcomes returning guest Irma Prosser to discuss her new children's book, 'Grandma Has No Hair.' The book, which portrays a child's perspective on a grandparent undergoing cancer treatment, aims to normalize the emotional and routine changes children face. Irma shares her personal inspiration for writing the story and discusses themes such as anticipatory grief, coping strategies for children, and the importance of practical play. The conversation also touches on inclusivity and representation in children's literature, showcasing characters with diverse backgrounds and challenges. Dr. Taylor and Irma highlight the importance of family support and open conversations about illness, providing valuable insights for both caregivers and children navigating similar experiences.

00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

00:25 Welcoming Returning Guest: Irma Prosser

01:06 Discussing 'Grandma Has No Hair'

04:10 Personal Stories and Inspirations

08:57 Representation and Inclusivity in the Book

12:43 Ambiguity and Anticipatory Grief

18:19 Practical Play Ideas and Caregiver Support

21:13 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

23:10 How to Access the Book and Connect with Irma

24:37 Closing Remarks and Resources

-------------------------------------------------------

Irma Prosser is a two time award winning author specializing in helping children process tough topics. As a Latinx mother of 5 children, three of whom left too soon, she understands how loss affects the entire family. She regularly donates books to hospitals, medical offices, and nonprofits to help grieving families. Connect with Irma Prosser here: Website: www.IrmaProsser.com Email:contact@IrmaProsser.com Facebook/Instagram: @IrmaProsserAuthor

-----------------------------------------------------

Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

-------------------------------------

Opening Music by The Dadicorns

Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

All Rights Reserved.

This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.

Navigating Grief in the Workplace with Dr. Heather Taylor

In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal', Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist and grief specialist, addresses the pervasive issue of handling grief in the workplace. She highlights the inadequacies of current bereavement policies and the unrealistic expectations placed on grieving employees. Dr. Taylor discusses the profound impact of grief on job performance, cognitive functions, and emotional regulation, and offers practical suggestions for advocating for flexibility, setting boundaries, and finding micro-moments for self-care. She also emphasizes the need for systemic changes in workplace policies to better support employees navigating grief. Dr. Taylor's compassionate approach provides both validation and actionable advice for those struggling to balance work while mourning a significant loss.

00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

00:24 Grief in the Workplace: The Harsh Reality

02:12 The Impact of Grief on Job Performance

05:29 Personal Story: Navigating Grief at Work

07:40 Understanding the Effects of Grief on the Brain

11:16 Practical Tips for Managing Grief at Work

15:30 Advocating for Better Workplace Policies

16:15 Conclusion and Resources for Support

----------------------------------------------------

Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

-------------------------------------

Opening Music by The Dadicorns

Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

All Rights Reserved.

This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.

Grief and the Social Battery: Navigating Energy Depletion

In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor, a grief psychologist, delves into the exhausting nature of grief and its impact on social interactions. She introduces the concept of 'grief mode' and explains how it affects brain function and the nervous system, leading to extreme fatigue. Dr. Taylor discusses the importance of normalizing and validating the reduced social capacity during grief. She offers practical strategies, such as using 'soft no's, having exit plans, and lowering the bar for connection. The episode also touches on 'spoon theory' to illustrate how grief depletes energy reserves. Personal anecdotes and insights provide a compassionate perspective, emphasizing that it's okay to step back during this challenging time. Dr. Taylor concludes with an invitation for listeners to honor their capacity by setting boundaries that support their grief journey.

00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

00:22 Understanding Grief and Social Exhaustion

01:33 The Impact of Grief on the Brain and Body

04:37 Navigating Social Interactions While Grieving

06:04 Personal Story: Thanksgiving After Loss

08:46 Adjusting Social Expectations and Boundaries

12:02 Practical Tips for Managing Social Energy

15:39 Recap and Final Thoughts

18:33 Closing Remarks and Resources

---------------------------------------------

Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

-------------------------------------

Opening Music by The Dadicorns

Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

All Rights Reserved.

This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.

The Validity of Anger in Grief: Embracing the Fiery Side of Loss

In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor discusses the often overlooked and misunderstood emotion of anger in the grieving process. Dr. Taylor emphasizes that anger is a natural and valid response to loss, challenging societal norms that view it as destructive or something to suppress. Throughout the episode, she shares personal experiences and offers practical strategies for channeling and metabolizing grief anger in healthy ways. Listeners are encouraged to embrace all aspects of their grief, including the fiery rage, and are provided with tools and insights to navigate their grief journey authentically and unapologetically.

00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

00:28 Exploring Anger in Grief

03:09 Faces of Grief Anger

06:09 Managing and Expressing Anger

10:19 Creative Outlets for Anger

15:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

------------------------------------------------------------

Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

-------------------------------------

Opening Music by The Dadicorns

Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

All Rights Reserved.

This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.

Navigating Collective Grief in Uncertain Times

In this episode of 'Grief is the New Normal,' Dr. Heather Taylor discusses the pervasive sense of collective grief felt in today's political climate. She outlines how current events and political transitions contribute to a sense of loss, disillusionment, and identity crisis. Dr. Taylor addresses the compounded impact of personal and systemic grief, emphasizing the need for practical strategies and emotional boundaries to process these feelings. She introduces the TIPP method and the concept of rage writing to help listeners manage their grief and anxiety. Dr. Taylor encourages community connection and self-care as vital components of navigating this new normal, offering resources and support through her podcast and newsletter.

00:00 Introduction to Grief is the New Normal

00:28 Exploring Non-Death Loss Grief

00:53 Grieving in a Shifting World

03:01 Political Transitions and Grief

04:56 Collective Grief and Identity

10:22 Practical Strategies for Managing Grief

15:13 Finding Community and Connection

16:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

----------------------------------------

Grief is the New Normal is the podcast that refuses to sugarcoat loss—because grief isn’t a problem to fix, it’s a reality to live with. Hosted by Dr. Heather Taylor, a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience in grief, trauma, and reproductive psychology, this show dives deep into the messy, nonlinear, and very real ways grief impacts our lives.

Whether you're navigating the death of your person, wrestling with the weight of an invisible loss, or trying to figure out who you even are after everything changed—this podcast is here for you. With a mix of solo deep dives, expert interviews, and candid conversations, Dr. Taylor unpacks the emotions no one warns you about, challenges outdated grief narratives, and offers both practical tools and hard-earned wisdom to help you feel less alone.

No toxic positivity. No “fixing” your grief. Just honest talk, validation, and the reminder that you don’t have to do this alone. Because in a world that wants you to move on, Grief is the New Normal is here to help you move through.

https://www.griefisthenewnormal.com

hello@griefisthenewnormal.com

Follow @grief_is_the_new_normal on Instagram for grief podcast, mental health, self-care, sass, and dark humor content whether you’re grieving or you’re a mental health professional needing more modern grief language.

Wanting more grief specific support? Check out my grief journal, Authentically Unapologetic: A Grief Journal available for purchase thru this link: https://a.co/d/4hbLtbX

-------------------------------------

Opening Music by The Dadicorns

Copyright 2024 Grief is the New Normal: A podcast with Dr. Heather Taylor

All Rights Reserved.

This podcast is meant for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information discussed in this podcast is not a replacement or substitute for therapy.