Episode Details

Grief changes the rules overnight. One day you’re living your normal life, and the next you’re trying to figure out how to breathe, eat, move, and exist in a world that looks the same but feels completely different.

I’m joined by Mary, the creator of Wearing Grief, who shares the story of losing her 21-year-old daughter, Grace, in a sudden car accident and how that kind of loss reshapes identity, relationships, and even the simplest daily choices. We talk about why she started designing grief shirts as a form of catharsis, how the project grew into community grief groups, and why she’s intentional about honoring her daughter’s life without turning her work into a replay of the worst day.

We also get practical about grief support and what to say to someone who is grieving. Mary explains why “let me know if you need anything” rarely helps, and what does help instead: specific offers, tiny errands, paper plates, soup, taking out the trash, watering the dog, and yes, bringing toilet paper. We dig into the power of steady presence after the funeral, and how people can show up without trying to fix pain. Since this is Spandex and Wine, we also explore grief and the body, including hip pain, nervous system overload, and why walking, yoga, breathwork, meditation, and nature can help you feel safe in your body again.

If you’ve been searching for real talk on grief and gratitude, bereavement, coping with loss, wellness after tragedy, or how to help a grieving friend, you’ll find language and tools you can actually use. Subscribe to Spandex and Wine, leave a five-star review, and share this with someone who needs steady support right now. What’s one specific thing you wish people would do when you’re hurting?

IG: @wearinggrief
Website: Wearing Grief – WearingGrief

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