Finding meaning in grief | David Kessler | #026 Mastering Change

We know about the five stages of grief – but did you know there’s a sixth? David Kessler speaks to us in this episode about how finding meaning can become one of the most powerful steps in healing after loss. 

Kessler is one of the world’s leading grief experts and author of On Grief and Grieving and Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief. Drawing on decades of experience and his own personal journey with loss, David shares why all trauma carries grief, and why healing requires more than just “moving on.” 

We explore the deep connection between trauma and loss, the importance of feeling rather than suppressing emotions and why grief must be witnessed by another to truly heal. 

From the misconceptions about the famous five stages of grief to his pioneering work on the sixth stage – finding meaning – David offers insight, compassion and practical wisdom for anyone navigating loss, whether it’s death, divorce, childhood wounds or other life changes we didn’t choose. 

We also explore: 

• Why trauma work and grief work must go hand in hand 
• How suppressed grief shapes relationships, boundaries, and self-worth 
• The role of ritual and community in healing 
• Why “presence” matters more than perfect words 
• How meaning-making parallels post-traumatic growth 

Moment of Care: This episode discusses sensitive episodes related to trauma, mental health and potential distressing experiences. If you feel triggered at any point, please take a moment to check in with yourself and seek support. 

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/masteringchangepodcast

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