I had such a great discussion with Rachel Kodanaz for this episode. Rachel is the author of three grief-related books, and is an expert on returning to work after a loss – both from the perspective of the grieving person and the perspective of the employer. In fact, she consults with and speaks to organizations large and small on this topic. She’s a widowed mom herself, having lost her husband when her daughter was just 2. She was employed in a large corporation at the time, and had to figure out how to make returning to work work for her family. Some topics that Rachel and I discuss include: How she negotiated with her employer to take her toddler along on business trips; Getting creative to solve the time-crunch problems of raising a young child on her own; Myths about employees returning to work after a loss; Questions to ask yourself before returning to work, to make your return go more smoothly; Tips for discussing what you need with your employer; Thoughts on how much to share with a prospective new employer when looking a job; Tips for kicking the proverbial elephant out of the room when returning to work; EAP, FMLA, and other employment benefits that may be available; Suggestions for when you suspect colleagues may be resentful or think you’re not pulling your weight; and Why you should have an “elevator speech” ready for when people say insensitive things. I hope you enjoy my discussion with Rachel Kodanaz.
Om Podcasten
Experiencing the profound loss of a spouse while navigating the intricate realm of "only-parenting" is a challenge unlike any other.
Remember, though, you’re not journeying alone. Jenny Lisk, who stepped into solo parenting following the devastating loss of her husband to brain cancer, established the Widowed Parent Institute to shine a light, extend a hand, and share vital resources. The Widowed Parent Podcast embodies that commitment, providing a mix of hope, practical wisdom, and shared experiences.
On The Widowed Parent Podcast, listeners will find:
- Expert perspectives from the vanguard of grief and loss research, tailored distinctly for widowed parents.
- Heartfelt stories from those who walked through childhood after the death of a parent, granting unique perspective and hope.
- Candid conversations with widowed parents, unveiling both the strengths they've discovered and the hurdles they've faced.
Whether you're trying to connect with a young child's emotions, navigate the maze of teenage years, or simply seeking a community that truly understands, this podcast speaks directly to widowed parents of children at every stage, from infancy through college. Plug in during a peaceful walk, your daily commute, or in quiet reflection, and discover inspiration, empowerment, and a community that hears and understands.
Proudly presented by the Widowed Parent Institute, a beacon of practical guidance, invaluable resources, and steadfast support for mothers and fathers raising grieving children and teens.