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
Finding Hope in Grief, Chronic Illness, and Loss of Parents with Dorothy Graham O’Dell - Episode 57
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WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS: Anyone navigating grief after cancer, dementia, or chronic illness and those experiencing anticipatory grief while caregiving.
WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET: Practical insights on managing loss, balancing family caregiving, processing long-term grief, and keeping loved ones’ legacies alive.
DESCRIPTION:
In this powerful conversation, Nick Gaylord sits down with Dorothy Graham O’Dell to explore her layered journey with grief. Dorothy shares her experience as a devoted daughter, caring for her father through years of chronic pain, cancer, and eventual death. She also opens up about her grandmother’s dementia, her role as power of attorney, and the emotional toll of constant caregiving. Together, Nick and Dorothy discuss anticipatory grief, the complex balance of celebrating milestones while preparing for loss, and the importance of legacy through storytelling. Dorothy reflects on her father’s positivity despite immense suffering, the challenges of making end-of-life decisions, and the healing power of community events like the golf tournament held in his honor. This episode reminds listeners that grief is both deeply personal and profoundly universal, offering hope, honesty, and connection in the hardest of times.
This episode answers:
- What is anticipatory grief and how do you cope with it?
- How do you balance caregiving responsibilities with personal life?
- What are healthy ways to honor a parent’s legacy after death?
- How can families support each other through cancer and dementia?
- What does navigating grief years after loss actually look like?
Key Takeaways:
- Anticipatory grief can be just as heavy as the loss itself.
- Caregiving often requires balancing control and compassion.
- Honoring loved ones with legacy events keeps their memory alive.
- Grief resurfaces in waves—through songs, smells, or daily reminders.
- Healing requires both self-care and community support.
4th ANNUAL DON GRAHAM MEMORIAL FUN CLASSIC (AUGUST 9, 2025)
Text: (519) 359-4743
Email: austin315@hotmail.com
DOROTHY'S LINKS:
UNSTOPPABLE OVERCOMERS PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/@theunstoppablenetwork
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/dorothy.graham3
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/dorothygrahamodell/
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@unstoppableovercomer
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorothyann-graham-o-dell-49943026/
DOROTHY'S BOOKS:
THE OVERCOMER: FACING CHALLENGES WITH FAITH AND COURAGE: https://www.amazon.ca/Overcomer-Facing-Challenges-Faith-Courage/dp/B08VLQ91WM/
THE OVERCOMER PLAYBOOK: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1778081517
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