What if grief isn’t something you “get over” — but something you learn to carry?

In this deeply honest and compassionate roundtable conversation, HER+ Experts explore the messy, non-linear reality of grief and why the pressure to “move on” can actually deepen suffering. Together, they unpack the harmful myths surrounding grief timelines, the emotional weight of judgment from others, and the unexpected ways loss can resurface years — even decades — later.

From maternal grief and infertility to losing loved ones and navigating trauma, this conversation validates the many forms grief can take and reminds listeners that healing is not about erasing pain. It’s about learning how to live alongside it with compassion, support, and meaning.

The panel also discusses why the traditional stages of grief often fall short, how grief and trauma can live in the body, and why protecting your story and emotional well-being matters during the healing process.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you should be “further along” in your healing journey, this episode offers reassurance, validation, and a powerful reminder: grief does not follow a timeline.

In this episode listeners will learn:

• Why grief is often non-linear and can resurface unexpectedly over time

• How trauma and grief can live in the body and impact emotional healing

• Practical ways to navigate grief with more self-compassion, meaning, and support

🎧 Tune in and explore more expert resources inside the HER+ Health Collective community.

Featured HER+ Experts:

• Sarah Szymanowski, licensed clinical mental health counselor associate and a music therapist - https://herhealthcollective.com/listing/sarah-szymanowski-lcmhca-ncc-mt-bc/

• Kelly Smedley, board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing - https://herhealthcollective.com/listing/waypoint-counseling-maternal-wellness/

• Katherine Rose, Integrative Health Practitioner, Personal Trainer - https://herhealthcollective.com/listing/katherine-rose-2/

Episode Notes and Resources:

FREE Expert Provider Directory - https://herhealthcollective.com/search-the-directory/?type=fitness

HER Circle (A Mom community by HER Health Collective) - https://www.herhealthcollective.com/membership

Support Mama Needs a Moment! Become a patron through our Mama Needs a Moment Patreon.

HER+ You Tube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@herhealthcollective4278