Cleo Childs
Turning Grief into Healing, Hope, and Creative Expression with Cleo Childs
DESCRIPTION:
In this heartfelt episode, host Nick Gaylord speaks with poet and author Cleo Childs about her journey through grief after caring for her mother Candice, who faced early-onset Alzheimer’s. Cleo shares the challenges of anticipatory grief, the emotional toll of caregiving at a young age, and the lessons she learned about patience, grace, and forgiveness. She opens up about the anger and rage that surfaced after her mother’s passing and how writing became her outlet for honesty and healing. Through poetry, Cleo captured both the devastation and beauty of grief, creating a book that helps others feel less alone. Nick and Cleo explore how grief reshapes identity, the importance of community and therapy, and the power of turning pain into purpose. This episode offers a deeply relatable and compassionate perspective for anyone navigating loss.
WHO THIS EPISODE HELPS:
Anyone grieving a parent, navigating Alzheimer’s caregiving, or struggling with anticipatory grief.
WHAT LISTENERS WILL GET:
Insights on surviving deep grief, finding peace after loss, and transforming pain into writing, art, and healing practices.
THIS EPISODE ANSWERS:
What is anticipatory grief and how do caregivers experience it?
How does early-onset Alzheimer’s impact families and young adult caregivers?
Why does anger and rage often appear in grief, and how can it be expressed?
How can writing and poetry become tools for healing after loss?
What does it mean to “move with grief” instead of “moving on” after death?
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Anticipatory grief is real and often as painful as grief after death.
Caregiving at a young age creates unique challenges and emotional burdens.
Anger is a natural, valid part of grief and must be acknowledged.
Writing and art can transform pain into connection and healing.
Moving forward in grief is about carrying your loved one with you, not leaving them behind.
CLEO’S LINKS:
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/reesie.zahner
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/cleochildspoetry/
WEBSITE: https://cleochilds.com/
Look for Cleo’s book - Coming Spring 2026
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