Our Dead Dads
The concept of Our Dead Dads was born through the daily discussions of seven men who share bonds of blood, friendship and all having lost their fathers. Nick Gaylord, the show’s host, shares his life experiences with his deceased father while exploring the complications and realities of that relationship. Life is intense, grief and loss come in many forms, and no parent-child relationship is black and white, which is why this show touches on all shades of grey.
Join Nick for candid conversations with his three brothers and three of his lifelong friends, along with other special guests who discuss their experiences with loss, grief, laughter, and moving forward. Nothing is off-limits here. Nick learned after his father's passing that he couldn't process what he was going through alone and sought the help of a therapist, who helped him to let go of his anger toward his father. Looking back, he realized just how many people are being crushed under the weight of grief, loss, and in some cases, anger.
Nick's mission through Our Dead Dads is to offer a platform for anyone who needs or wants to tell their story, to have that opportunity. He also hopes to reach many more who need to talk but don't know how to start the conversation, hopeful that by listening to these stories, they will be able to start talking with someone.
Nick has always sought to help others and to make everyone around him laugh. Along with his brothers and friends, he has frequently used humor to get through the hardest times in their lives, and hopefully, you will permit yourself to do the same. Get ready for an emotional deep dive. Nick has a lot to say and so do his guests. He's here for you and ready to help. Everyone has been through trauma, grief, and loss. Now, along with Nick and his guests, everyone will get through it together.
Nick is changing the world one damaged soul at a time. Welcome to Our Dead Dads.
Our Dead Dads
Anticipatory Grief and the Long Goodbye: Coping with Loss, Pain, and Healing with Dr. Mary Ann Mercer - Episode 48
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WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS:
Anyone navigating anticipatory grief, long-term illness, dementia, or the drawn-out process of losing a loved one.
WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET:
Practical insights on anticipatory grief, tools for supporting loved ones, and guidance on handling the emotional rollercoaster of the long goodbye.
DESCRIPTION:
In this episode, Nick speaks with Dr. Mary Ann Mercer about the unique challenges of anticipatory grief and the painful reality of the long goodbye. Dr. Mary shares deeply personal stories about supporting her best friend through a prolonged cancer journey, the mixture of emotions that come with wishing for peace while fearing loss, and the importance of validating a loved one’s feelings without interruption. She also reflects on supporting a lifelong friend facing dementia, offering powerful lessons on companionship, patience, and presence. Nick and Dr. Mary highlight the universal need for compassion, silence, and human connection when words fall short. Together, they explore how anticipatory grief differs from sudden loss, why it carries unique layers of guilt and exhaustion, and how small gestures—like saving a voicemail or sitting in silence—can carry profound healing. This heartfelt conversation is a resource for anyone struggling to support loved ones through decline, illness, and end-of-life grief.
This episode answers:
- What is anticipatory grief and how is it different from other types of grief?
- How do you support a loved one through a long goodbye with cancer or dementia?
- Why does anticipatory grief often bring feelings of guilt, sadness, and relief?
- What are the healthiest ways to comfort someone facing the end of life?
- How can silence and presence be more healing than words during grief?
Key Takeaways:
- Anticipatory grief brings a complex mix of sadness, guilt, and relief.
- Silence and presence can validate emotions better than rushed comfort.
- Long goodbyes often leave caregivers emotionally drained and isolated.
- Saving tangible memories (voicemails, notes, cards) provides lasting comfort.
Compassion, patience, and listening are essential in end-of-life support.
DR. MARY'S LINKS:
WEBSITE: www.PositiveLifeAnswers.com
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/positivelifeanswers/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/positivelifeanswers/
E-MAIL: drmercer@positivelifeanswers.com
POSITIVE LIFE ANSWERS PODCAST LINKS:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/pod
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