Originally Released on November 30th, 2022
Season’s greetings from Grieving Out Loud! For this holiday special, we’re revisiting an episode that holds valuable insights for many. Our guest today, Dr. Mark Vande Braak, played a significant role in host Angela Kennecke’s grief journey following the loss of her 21-year-old daughter, Emily. As a thanatologist—a fancy term for a grief educator—Dr. Vande Braak guided Angela’s family in the aftermath of Emily’s passing. You might recall him from an earlier podcast, Episode 10, “Broken Heart Syndrome: Four Ways We Grieve.”
In this episode, Vande Braak has helpful, practical advice tailored for those grappling with loss during the holiday season—a time often dubbed the “most wonderful time of the year,” yet one that can be the hardest and loneliest for those grieving. Tune in for insights that can bring comfort and support during this challenging time.
MEET THE GUEST
Dr. Mark Vande Braak
Dr. Vande Braak is recognized as a Fellow in Thanatology by the Association for Death Education and Counseling. He has been a guest lecturer for universities throughout the Midwest on the subject of grief, and he has worked with and lectured to 300,000 individuals. He has developed grief support groups for adults, adolescents, and children, as well as miscarriage and stillbirth losses. Dr. Vande Braak is passionate about “walking with” individuals in their grief journey.
