Advertise on podcast: Guiding Grief

The loss of a beloved pet can leave an emptiness unlike any other. In this heartfelt episode of Guiding Grief, host Nicholas Welzenbach sits down with Ken Toren to explore the extraordinary bond we share with our animal companions and why saying goodbye can be so profoundly difficult.  Ken, who is involved with the Alzheimer’s community and serves on the Monte Sereno City Council, shares deeply personal stories about the dogs who have shaped his life. From Pixie, his first beloved Sheltie and a treasured member of the family, to Valentine, Cupid, Rocky, and the many other dogs he has loved and lost, Ken reflects on the companionship, joy, and unconditional love that pets bring into our lives.  Some of those losses were especially intertwined with other moments of grief. Pixie and Ken’s father both faced cancer, and when Pixie was eventually put to rest at the age of 16, she was buried alongside his father. Ken also shares the remarkable connection he felt between Rocky and his late mother and a beautiful moment involving a rainbow above the veterinary center when Rocky passed.  Through these stories, Ken offers a moving reflection on pet loss, love, and the courage to open your heart again. As he shares, every loss may leave your heart feeling empty, but the next animal we welcome into our lives has the capacity to fill it in an entirely new way.  Because, ultimately, it is all about loving again.

What happens when grief and real estate intersect?  In this episode of Guiding Grief, host Nicholas Welzenbach speaks with Jason Arena, a Certified Probate and Trust Specialist and Realtor with Compass, about the deeply emotional experience of navigating a loved one’s home and estate after a death.  Jason’s perspective is shaped by both his professional experience and his personal journey as a caregiver. When his father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2017, and as he helped care for other family members, Jason began to recognize the complicated intersection between loss, family, and the practical decisions that follow a death. He realized he could offer more than simply helping people sell a home, he could support families through one of life's most difficult transitions.  Jason and Nicholas explore the emotions connected to letting go of a family home, as well as the importance of preparation. The conversation includes an approachable discussion about trusts, why they can be valuable, and why families with real estate and multiple family members may want to consider planning ahead.  This episode is a thoughtful look at the practical side of loss and the human emotions that are often inseparable from it.

In this returning episode of Guiding Grief, host Nicholas Welzenbach welcomes back Juliann Halvorson, LMFT, for an organic and heartfelt conversation about grief, healing, vulnerability, and the many ways loss and change shape our lives.  Juliann shares her work supporting patients and families in the cancer community through Cancer CAREpoint, an organization dedicated to providing holistic care, resources, and support.   The conversation also explores Juliann’s work facilitating grief group therapy for Darling Fischer families and the power of coming together with others who understand. From learning to recognize our own grief to resisting the urge to compare our experiences, Juliann reminds us that vulnerability can create meaningful connection.  Grief is not limited to death. It can emerge from any significant change in our physical, mental, or emotional lives and sometimes, it can be difficult to recognize while we are living through it. Most importantly, this episode offers a powerful reminder: it is never too late to begin your grieving process or your healing journey. By validating what we feel and giving ourselves permission to discover new ways forward, healing can begin wherever we are.

In this Talking About Tomorrow installment of Guiding Grief, host Nicholas Welzenbach sits down with Shannon Corpuz, a Financial Ddvisor with Pence Financial Group, for a powerful and practical conversation about planning for the future before you're in crisis. Shannon brings clarity and compassion to topics many avoid until it’s too late—estate planning, Living Trusts, long-term care insurance, and the critical need for open conversations with loved ones as we age. Together, she and Nicholas explore why proactive planning isn't just about money—it's about peace of mind, protecting your wishes, and easing the emotional burden on family members down the line. If you’ve ever wondered when the “right time” is to start planning for the future, this episode is for you. Listen in for honest insights, expert advice, and the encouragement to start talking about tomorrow—today. Learn more about Pence Financial Group and Shannon at https://pencefinancialgroup.com/

This episode of Guiding Grief is part of our Talking About Tomorrow series. Nicholas Welzenbach sits down with Mani Mortezaei, Director of Sales and Marketing at Tailored Transitions, a real estate team focusing on the senior relocation and transition space. Together, they explore the emotional, logistical, and relational challenges families face when aging loved ones resist moving or downsizing. Mani shares how Tailored Transitions helps families bridge tough conversations, navigate grief over lost independence, and make decisions rooted in dignity and respect. You’ll hear real stories of resistance, compromise, and healing—and come away with a better understanding of how to have these tough conversations along with resources to support those you love through major life transitions. Tune in for a moving, practical conversation about loss and change—and how to guide people onward with grace. You can learn more about Mani and the services his team at Tailored Transitions provides at https://www.tailoredtransitionsre.com

As part of our Talking About Tomorrow series, Guiding Grief host Nicholas Welzenbach sits down with Laura Nanada, Community Relations Manager of Senior Helpers San Jose to dig into the heart of in‑home caregiving. Laura brings real-world insight into how families can preserve dignity, nurture emotional connection, and find peace of mind when caring for aging loved ones. Whether you work in elder care, are supporting a parent or client, or simply want to understand more about compassionate caregiving, this episode offers encouragement, practical advice, and stories of resilience in the space between care and compassion. Tune in—and let’s walk this journey together. Learn more about Laura and Senior Helpers at https://www.seniorhelpers.com/ca/san-jose/

In the latest episode of the Guiding Grief podcast, host Nicholas Welzenbach welcomes back Juliann Halvorsen, MA, LMFT, from Cancer CAREpoint (https://www.cancercarepoint.org/), for another thoughtful and heartfelt conversation. Juliann is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and a certificate in Traumatology from Holy Names University in Oakland. She brings a wealth of clinical experience and deep compassion to her work supporting individuals and families impacted by cancer. In this episode, Juliann shares updates on the important work Cancer CAREpoint is doing, including newly expanded services for minors experiencing grief related to a cancer diagnosis in the family. She and Nicholas also delve into the complex grief faced by caregivers, offering insights into how they can find support and healing while continuing to care for others. Cancer CAREpoint provides no-cost Counseling, Assistance, Resources & Education to cancer patients, survivors, families, and caregivers throughout the Bay Area. To learn more about their programs or get involved, visit cancercarepoint.org (https://www.cancercarepoint.org/). And don’t miss their annual Garden Party fundraiser, taking place August 24th at the stunning Nestldown estate in Los Gatos.

In this episode of the Guiding Grief podcast, host Nicholas Welzenbach engages in a heartfelt conversation with Jennifer Sarmento, Executive Director of the Kyle J. Taylor Foundation. Jennifer formed the Foundation in memory of her son, Kyle, who passed away in February 2018 from Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA). She and the KJT Foundation Team are dedicated to preventing similar tragedies through proactive measures. Research indicates that traditional checkups fail to detect 90% of young individuals at risk for sudden cardiac arrest, highlighting the importance of the foundation's work. Through their efforts, the Campbell and Los Gatos High School districts now offer heart screenings for student-athletes, addressing a critical gap in routine wellness checkups and sports physicals. The foundation’s three primary goals are to increase the availability of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in sports programs, promote and provide CPR training, and award a Leigh High School scholarship in honor of Kyle's legacy. Tune in to hear Jennifer's inspiring journey, the foundation’s impactful initiatives, and how they are making a significant difference in the lives of young athletes and their communities. This episode is a testament to the power of turning grief into action and creating a lasting legacy. For more information about the Foundation, visit https://www.kylejtaylor.org

Welcome to the Guiding Grief podcast. In this episode, host Nicholas Welzenbach is joined by Juliann Halvorsen from Cancer CAREpoint. Cancer CAREpoint offers personalized Counseling, Assistance, Resources & Education to Bay Area cancer patients, survivors, families & caregivers at no cost. Juliann, an MA, LMFT, and Counselor, brings a wealth of experience to the table with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and a certificate in Traumatology from Holy Names University in Oakland. Having worked with a variety of clients in a variety of settings including substance abuse, mental illness, hospice, schools, and senior care, Juliann emphasizes the importance of creativity in helping clients express themselves. Drawing on her background in massage therapy, Juliann explores the vital connection between mental health and body awareness, offering invaluable insights into navigating the impact of cancer on an individual’s self-perception and worldview. Join us as we delve into the authentic, genuine support provided by Cancer CAREpoint to Bay Area residents impacted by cancer. Guiding Grief is sponsored by Darling Fischer and Los Gatos Memorial Park. https://www.cancercarepoint.org/gardenparty/

Join Nicholas Welzenbach on this episode of Guiding Grief as he delves into the vital conversations about life and death with Lisa Pahl, a hospice social worker and the co-creator of The Death Deck and The End of Life Deck. Lisa shares her belief that meaningful conversations empower us to make informed decisions for our loved ones and ourselves. Through community events in Los Angeles and speaking engagements like the recent Hospice Gratitude Gathering at Darling Fischer Los Gatos, Lisa aims to normalize discussions on death and dying. Tune in as Nicholas and Lisa explore the significance of these conversations in shaping our end-of-life experiences and discover how The Death Deck and the EOL Deck are breaking down barriers, making these taboo topics more approachable.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Guiding Grief podcast, where host Nicholas Welzenbach delves into the transformative journey of memorialization with Stephanie Poirier from Parting Stone. Discover the innovative approach to honoring loved ones as we explore the story behind Parting Stone, a groundbreaking company featured on Shark Tank in April 2023. Founded by ceramic artist Justin Crow in the wake of his grandfather's passing, Parting Stone offers a fresh perspective on remembrance. Rather than keeping ashes tucked away, these solidified remains are crafted into enduring stones, allowing for meaningful sharing, display, or scattering in cherished locations. Join us as we explore how Parting Stone reshapes the grieving process, encouraging connection, storytelling, and open dialogue surrounding the memory of those we hold dear.

Discussing all things grief with my old friend Ryan Wright. We dive into how allowing ourselves to grow within our grief is where we find true growth. Ryan provides insight for being joyful through holiday seasons and daily living. We discuss tears and how empowering they can be. Thank you to our sponsors Darling Fischer & Los Gatos Memorial Park and KCAT for producing Guiding Grief. Tune in to my new favorite song by Stephen Wilson Jr., “Grief is Only Love.”

In this episode, we look at the impact of the word Essential on the Funeral and Cemetery Services.  Over the past two years, no other industry has been more impacted and unsung. We heard only a few human interest stories about those of us across the world that cared for loved ones lost. Here we are going to share how we as Funeral and Cemetery Professionals were affected and sing the praises of those that continued to show up through the darkest of times. Thank you to everyone who continued to show up during the unknown and scariest parts of the past couple of years. You are true hero's and in this podcast we will celebrate you for your thoughtful, empathetic and courageous response to those that need you!

In Memory of John D. Knapp my father-in-law. Welcome back to the Guiding Grief podcast, in this episode we discuss the resurfacing of past grief, our Covid world, and a very personal loss. This Episode is dedicated to the life of John D. Knapp. I hope that this personal message of grief and loss allows you to better understand some of your own grief. My resurfacing of grief was brought on by a song, "Present Tense" by Pearl Jam. It’s an amazing song with a beautiful message we can learn from. Thank you to our sponsors Darling & Fischer Life Celebrations and Los Gatos Memorial Park. Thank you to Hospice of the Valley (https://www.hospicevalley.org/), A Division of Sutter Care at Home and Cancer CAREPoint (https://www.cancercarepoint.org/). Your dedication to supporting our community during their time of need is both beautiful and heroic.

In this episode of Guiding Grief we are discussing Covid-19, the film Groundhog Day and that feeling your all having right now in the pit of your stomach, grief. If you enjoy the podcast please leave a 5 star review and share your friends and family.  Thank you for listening. Special thanks to Larry Brooks and Kristen Frank for your support. Resources mentioned in podcast. https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/home-health-hospice/scah-grief-bereavement-support https://grief.com/ https://hbr.org/2020/03/that-discomfort-youre-feeling-is-grief Local Campbell & Los Gatos Support and Info: https://campbellchamberfoundation.org/campbell-cares https://www.losgatoschamber.com/