When Danielle Crittenden lost her daughter Miranda suddenly at 32, her world shattered. In this deeply honest conversation with Ben Higgins, Danielle—journalist and author of "Dispatches from Grief: A Mother's Journey through the Unthinkable"—opens up about the raw pain of losing a child, the isolating experience of grief, and why “moving on” is a fantasy. She shares her family’s journey, moments of darkness, and what it takes to simply keep going. Danielle unpacks why conventional wisdom around grief can feel hollow, what really helps, and how she finds strength to write, speak, and honor Miranda’s memory. This is a vital listen for anyone touched by loss, those supporting a grieving friend, or searching for honest insight into living after the unimaginable.

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Facing the Unthinkable Loss
02:32 Danielle’s Backstory and Career
04:14 The Day Miranda Passed
05:02 Navigating Medical Challenges
07:11 Channeling Grief Into Help
08:24 Writing Through Pain
11:06 The Messiness of Grief
12:26 Fears During Surgery Years
15:33 Remembering Miranda’s Spirit
16:56 Balancing Memory and Grief
21:09 Promoting and Sharing the Book
25:39 Not Becoming a “Grief Influencer”
31:18 EMDR and Healing Resources
36:42 The Ongoing Presence of Grief
40:05 Impact on Family and Relationships
46:11 What Helps Those Who Grieve
48:06 Connecting and Finding Support