Kelly Corrigan Wonders

Wendy Childress shares the story of losing her beautiful daughter Chloe in the devastating Camp Mystic floods in Texas, and writes a deeply moving tribute to her parents, Joanie and Da. She takes us through that terrible night and the days that followed—the phone calls, the waiting, the moment she had to tell her parents the worst news imaginable. Wendy reflects on having to stop protecting them from pain and become their daughter again, asking them to be strong when everything fell apart. She explores what it means when love comes full circle—to be a child, then a parent, then a child again—and how her parents showed up in ways she never imagined possible, refusing to give up even in the face of crushing grief. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After years of exploration, the host shares profound insights, merging old wisdom with modern science. Eulogies reveal that true greatness is often found in quiet, consistent love. She emphasizes the importance of genuine vulnerability and the need to show our wounds as they are. The conversation highlights the joy of in-person connections and the subtle power of listening as an act of love. Finally, there's a call to find wonder in everyday lives, encouraging listeners to cherish the stories around them.

In this insightful discussion, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anna Quindlen shares her thoughts on the art of gifting and regifting. She reflects on the emotional ties to possessions and how the pandemic has shifted our relationship with them. Anna and Kelly explore the joys of passing treasures to loved ones and the significance of family traditions over materialism. They also share humorous anecdotes about regifting mishaps and reveal their family’s unique gifting practices, reminding us that the spirit of giving is what truly matters.

Megan Cathlin shares a heartfelt eulogy for her father, who died by suicide when she was five. She reflects on his artistry as a musician and the burden he carried without the language of vulnerability. Megan grapples with childhood confusion, ultimately recognizing that love transcends loss and suffering doesn't diminish worth. Her poignant insights honor her father's complexity, reminding listeners that it’s possible to be both radiant and struggling. In her closing thoughts, she chooses love over bitterness, celebrating his memory.

Journalist Amanda Ripley reveals that the U.S. is poised for its lowest murder rate since 1960, despite common misperceptions. She discusses how media sensationalism distorts public beliefs about crime and political violence. Ripley offers three critical questions to ask before sharing stories: How often is this happening? Is it getting better or worse? What can we do about it? The episode encourages actionable steps to counter anxiety and promote a clearer understanding of reality.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Anna Quindlen as she shares profound insights on the importance of showing up for loved ones during the holidays. She reflects on the significance of personal traditions and how they ground us amid societal pressures. Anna and Kelly discuss the magic of in-person connections and how we can recreate those moments post-pandemic. With a touching personal story about family and unexpected support, they highlight the transformative power of presence. Plus, Kelly’s brother, Booker, offers travel tips to ease holiday stress.

A grandson's heartfelt eulogy beautifully illustrates the magic of his bond with his grandmother. He shares cherished memories of elaborate birthday desserts and unique cooking traditions that made celebrations unforgettable. The transformation of a room into a personal sanctuary highlights her thoughtfulness. Everyday adventures filled with games and spontaneous outings added joy to their ordinary moments. The story culminates in a memorable weekend filled with favorite spots and unplanned happiness, showcasing a life rich in love and connection.

Duncan Keegan, an Irish father and TED speaker, shares his profound journey through grief after the loss of his five-year-old son, Rory. He emphasizes the importance of being present and truly connecting with family during difficult times. Reflecting on small moments, Duncan argues that AI cannot replicate the emotional depth of human interaction. He highlights the value of courage, silence, and genuine presence over technology. Kelly and Duncan explore how shared stories of grief can bridge connections, revealing the beauty and complexity of family life.

Holiday jitters take center stage as Anna Quindlen and Kelly dig into the ups and downs of family gatherings. They share humorous turkey cooking tales and reflect on messy, imperfect holidays. Forgiveness emerges as a vital tool, with Anna discussing her own challenges with it. The duo explores the importance of assuming kindness and navigating political tensions during family time. Kelly’s brother, Booker, joins the conversation, adding his perspectives on Thanksgiving changes and family dynamics.

A mother's journey into communal joy while navigating personal grief unfolds beautifully. Attending a bat mitzvah becomes a transformative experience, showcasing how moments of celebration can lift sorrow. Amid her worries for her daughter, she discovers the healing power of connection and shared joy. The essay emphasizes the importance of showing up for others, reminding us that vulnerability and inclusion can provide respite from our struggles. Ultimately, it's a heartfelt call to embrace community during challenging times.