Encountering with Dr. Suzanne Simpson
This podcast is about how we find connection. In every way. Based on my doctoral research at a youth psychiatric unit, my interviews span the globe. I explore how everyday interactions can bring joy, healing, and might just make this world a better place. Episodes discuss mental health, wellness, and how we can support others and ourselves. This podcast is relevant for anyone wanting to know how we can better encounter others.
Encountering with Dr. Suzanne Simpson
Beauty from Ashes: Healing, Grief & Finding Purpose with Jeff Johnston
How do we find hope after loss? Can grief, addiction, and pain lead to personal growth and transformation?
In this episode of Encountering, I sit down with Jeff Johnston, who shares his deeply personal journey through grief, healing, and sobriety after the loss of his son and wife. Through his story, he explores the concept of beauty from ashes—how life's darkest moments can lead to resilience, self-discovery, and purpose.
🎧 You will learn:
● How grief can be a catalyst for growth and transformation
● The truth about addiction, sobriety, and finding clarity
● Why self-compassion and mindfulness are key to healing
● How to find meaning, gratitude, and connection after loss
● The power of leading by example and shaping the next generation
Jeff’s story is a testament to the human spirit, resilience, and the power of finding purpose in pain. If you're navigating loss, addiction, or searching for healing, this conversation is for you.
00:00 - Introduction: Jeff Johnston’s Story of Loss, Healing & Resilience
01:35 - Turning Pain into Purpose: The Beauty from Ashes Mindset
07:42 - Grief & Loss: How to Navigate Heartbreak & Find Strength
12:00 - The Healing Journey: Overcoming Trauma & Finding Hope
18:21 - Lessons from Sorrow: Growth, Mindfulness & Moving Forward
28:14 - Finding Meaning in Pain: Gratitude, Acceptance & Resilience
30:10 - Alcohol & Addiction: How Sobriety Transforms Your Life
32:38 - Self-Compassion: Healing Starts with Forgiving Yourself
36:22 - Mindfulness & Mental Health: How to Find Inner Peace
39:21 - Living Undeterred: Turning Grief Into a Life of Purpose
42:48 - Connection & Healing: Why Relationships Matter in Recovery
47:25 - Leading by Example: Teaching Future Generations About Strength
51:15 - Beauty from Ashes: How to Transform Pain into Personal Growth
You can find Jeff at:
Living Undeterred: https://www.livingundeterred.org
Brightn App: brightnapp.com
Brightn Merchandise: www.brightn.shop
You can watch this episode on my YouTube channel Encountering:
https://www.youtube.com/@DrSuzanneEncountering
New releases every Monday 8:00 am PST.
Find the presentations I offer at www.drsuzannesimpson.com
And, I am on social media:
Linked In: Dr. Suzanne Simpson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsuzannesimpson/
Instagram: drsuzannesimpson
https://www.instagram.com/drsuzannesimpson/?hl=en
Facebook: Dr. Suzanne Simpson
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566148964209
TikTok: Drsuzannesimpson
https://www.tiktok.com/@drsuzannesimpson?lang=en
Please note that the contents of this website are not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. My scope of practice is as an educator, and this work is intended to provide information for educational purposes only. Testimonials of lived experiences are opinion only and have not been scientifically evaluated.