137. Finding Connection in Grief: Insights from Suzanne Jabour (Episode Recap) Artwork

Full of Words

Explore the power of language on the Full of Words Podcast with hosts Sue and CJ.

Through insightful discussions and engaging interviews, this weekly podcast delves into how words and communication deeply impact business, society and our everyday lives.

Sue and CJ draw from decades of combined experience to analyse the role words and language play in effective messaging and provide tips that will empower listeners' personal and professional communications.

Pull up a comfy chair, grab your favourite cuppa, and join two friends who turn their word love into wise lessons that will leave you feeling wittier and wiser!

All Episodes

Full of Words

137. Finding Connection in Grief: Insights from Suzanne Jabour (Episode Recap)

October 23, 2025 • Sue Kennedy and Catherine James • Episode 140

There won’t be a new episode this week, but we’ve lined up some special recap episodes for you to enjoy! It’s the perfect chance to revisit some of our favorite moments and conversations.

Thanks for listening—we can’t wait to share more fresh episodes with you soon!

In this episode of the Full of Words podcast, Sue Kennedy and CJ sit down with Suzanne Jabour, a grieving mom who has transformed her loss into a mission to educate others about grief. Suzanne shares her personal journey after losing her son Ben in 2020 and how it led her to become a grief educator, speaker, and coach. They delve into the importance of using thoughtful, meaningful language around grief, avoiding clichés, and fostering real connections with those who are grieving.

They also touch on Suzanne's involvement in writing projects focused on grief in leadership and the workplace, highlighting the significant impact of unaddressed grief in professional settings. Learn about the staggering costs of grief on mental health and workplace dynamics, as well as actionable steps to create more supportive environments for those in mourning.

Don’t miss this episode—tune in now!

Highlights:

(02:02) Suzanne explains her work in grief education and its language aspects.
(03:49) Suzanne's personal journey, including the loss of her son, Ben.
(07:06) The misconception about avoiding talking to a grieving person.
(10:27) Importance of making specific offers for help to grieving individuals.
(12:39) Challenges grievers face with "brain fog" and accepting vague offers.
(16:17) Creating safe spaces for grieving emotions to flow without judgment.
(19:44) Importance of choosing words that foster connection, not isolation.
(23:32) Naming emotional experiences, like "ugly crying," brings comfort and acceptance.
(26:18) Inadequate grief leave policies in the workplace.
(27:41) Consequences of grief isolation and the financial cost to businesses.
(31:36) Aligning grief policies with psychological safety in workplaces.

Sue Kennedy Links:

Website:authoracademy.com.au

LinkedIn:Sue Kennedy Book Coaching Expert

Facebook:
http://facebook.com/TheNo1AuthorAcademy
https://www.facebook.com/groups/authoracademycollective

Twitter: thauthoracademy

Email:sue@authoracademy.com.au

Booking Link: https://suekennedy.as.me/complimentarysession

Catherine James Links:

Website:catherinejames.au

LinkedIn:Catherine (CJ) James

Facebook:
Catherine James Creative
https://www.facebook.com/groups/doinitdaily/

Instagram:@catherinejamescreative

Email: cj@catherinejamescreative.com.au

Booking Link: https://catherinejames.au/contact

Guest Links:
Website: https://linktr.ee/SuzanneJabourGriefEducation