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In this episode of Grief 2 Growth, host Brian Smith is joined by filmmaker Max Rissman, whose debut feature film, Upon Waking, takes viewers on an emotional journey through near-death and shared-death experiences. The film explores themes of forgiveness, family dynamics, and the transformative power of love and healing. Max opens up about his creative process, the challenges of making an independent film, and how spirituality plays a pivotal role in his storytelling.

If you’ve ever wondered about the spiritual side of filmmaking, the role of intuition in creativity, or how art can be a path to healing, this conversation is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Max’s childhood passion for storytelling inspired his career as a filmmaker 🎭
• The significance of near-death and shared-death experiences in the film Upon Waking 🕊️
• The challenges Max faced while creating a low-budget feature film during COVID-19 🎥
• Why forgiveness—both of others and oneself—is central to healing 💖
• How spirituality and intuition guide the creative process ✨

About Max Rissman:
Max Rissman is an NYU-trained filmmaker dedicated to creating emotionally resonant stories about the human condition. His debut feature film, Upon Waking, is a powerful exploration of loss, transformation, and self-acceptance. Releasing on Valentine’s Day, the film will be available on Amazon Prime, Fandango, and Hoopla.

Links & Resources:

• 🎬 Watch Upon Waking: uponwakingfilm.com
• 🌟 Connect with Brian and join the Grief 2 Growth community: grief2growth.com/community

Feedback & Get Involved:
🎧 We’d love to hear from you!

• What resonated with you in this episode?
• Have you ever found healing through creativity?

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I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.

https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons

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Episode Summary
What if the afterlife isn’t a mystery, but a space we can explore to find healing, clarity, and purpose? In this transformative episode, host Brian Smith welcomes Regan Forston, clinical hypnotherapist and former board member of the Michael Newton Institute. Regan has guided hundreds of clients through life-between-lives sessions, offering profound insights into the afterlife, reincarnation, and our soul’s purpose.

Together, they discuss the groundbreaking work of Dr. Michael Newton, the healing power of hypnosis, and Regan’s own life-changing experiences, including his three hours and 33 minutes in heaven. Regan also shares actionable steps to help you connect with your higher self, stay grounded, and live intentionally.

What We Cover in This Episode
💫 What Is Life Between Lives?: Understand the process of connecting with the afterlife and uncovering your soul’s purpose.
🌟 Healing Through Hypnosis: Learn how hypnosis can help resolve emotional trauma, address physical ailments, and reconnect you with loved ones who’ve passed.
📖 Regan’s Journey to the Afterlife: Hear Regan’s incredible story of visiting the afterlife and meeting his council of elders.
✨ Reincarnation & Soul Growth: Discover why we come back to Earth and what lessons we’re here to learn.
❤️ Practical Spirituality: Regan shares simple practices like meditation, acts of kindness, and grounding to help you stay connected to the Divine.
🌈 Facing Fear and Finding Forgiveness: The power of confronting past-life experiences and healing emotional wounds.

About Regan Forston
Regan Forston is a clinical hypnotherapist and spiritual explorer certified in Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique (QHHT) through Dolores Cannon’s school. He is a former board member of the Michael Newton Institute, where he has contributed to the understanding of life between lives. Regan is also the author of Three Hours, 33 Minutes in Heaven and Reincarnation is Real.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode
📚 Three Hours, 33 Minutes in Heaven – Get the Book on Amazon
📖 Journey of Souls by Michael Newton – Learn more about the afterlife.

📩 Connect with Brian
Visit

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Can't wait to hear from you!

I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.

https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons

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In this heartfelt episode of Grief 2 Growth, Brian Smith is joined by the remarkable Mary D’Agostino, a professional intuitive, spiritual counselor, psychic medium, and author. Mary shares her personal journey through love, loss, and spiritual awakening following the passing of her beloved son, Brandon. From profound visions to a shared death experience, Mary provides insight into how grief can be a catalyst for growth and transformation.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The vibrant life and legacy of Mary’s son, Brandon.
• How intuition and spiritually transformative experiences guide us through loss.
• Mary’s shared death experience and the comfort it brought.
• Divine messages from Brandon and how love transcends the physical realm.
• Practical steps for self-compassion and navigating grief.

Featured Guest

Mary D’Agostino
Mary is the founder of Heart of Gaia Creative Healing Arts, where she offers intuitive readings, soul coaching, mediumship, astrology, and Reiki healing. She is also the author of 111 Days of Divine Intervention: A Mother’s Healing Journey. Through her foundation, Brandon’s Angels, she provides comfort and guidance to grieving families.

Connect with Mary:

• 🌐 Website: marydagostino.com
• 📚 Book: 111 Days of Divine Intervention
• 💌 Services: Intuitive readings, astrology, and Reiki

Join the Conversation

✨ What are your thoughts on spiritually transformative experiences? Share your story in our Grief 2 Growth Community and connect with others on the path to healing.

Episode Resources

• Mary’s Website: marydagostino.com
• Grief 2 Growth Community: grief2growth.com/community
• Helping Parents Heal: helpingparentsheal.org

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You can send me a text by clicking the link at the top of the show notes. Use fanmail to:

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Can't wait to hear from you!

I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.

https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons

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In this profound and heartfelt episode, Brian Smith welcomes Eileen Santos Rosete—author, grief educator, and certified postpartum doula—whose groundbreaking work is changing the way we view and support those navigating pregnancy and infant loss.

Eileen shares her deeply personal journey of loss and healing, offering insights into the physical and emotional realities of postpartum after pregnancy loss. Through her holistic approach, Eileen highlights the transformative power of embodiment, self-tending practices, and cultural reverence in the grieving process.

Eileen's new book, To Tend and To Hold: Honoring Our Bodies, Our Needs, and Our Grief Through Pregnancy and Infant Loss, provides tools, rituals, and guidance to help those carrying invisible grief feel seen, heard, and supported.

💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The overlooked realities of postpartum after pregnancy loss
• Why holistic and trauma-informed care is essential
• How cultural perspectives shape our understanding of grief
• Practical ways to support someone experiencing pregnancy or infant loss

Connect with Eileen Santos Rosete:

• Website: https://eileensantosrosete.com
• Instagram: @OurSacredWomen
• Book: To Tend and To Hold (Available wherever books are sold)

Join the Conversation:

• Explore the Grief 2 Growth Community: http://grief2growth.com/community

Feedback and Support:

Did you enjoy this episode? Let us know by leaving a review or sharing your thoughts at grief2growth.com. Together, we can create a compassionate space for healing and growth.

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Can't wait to hear from you!

I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.

https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons

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In this episode of Grief 2 Growth, host Brian Smith and Dr. Susan Plunket explore the fascinating world of Jungian psychology and the paranormal. Together, they explore the mysteries of consciousness, life between lives, and transcendent experiences that reveal the profound truth of our infinite nature.

Dr. Plunkett, a renowned Jungian psychologist and author, shares her incredible journey into understanding psychic phenomena, astral projection, and how to integrate mystical experiences into our everyday lives. Whether you’re curious about the afterlife, searching for meaning, or intrigued by the paranormal, this episode will inspire and enlighten you.

Topics Discussed:

• 🌌 What happens to our consciousness when we die?
• 🧠 The connection between Jungian psychology and mysticism.
• 💤 Astral projection and the nature of dreams as real experiences.
• ✨ Why only part of your soul incarnates in this life.
• 👁️ Shape-shifting and Dr. Plunkett’s personal mystical encounters.
• 🌍 How the paranormal reveals our greater purpose as divine beings.

Resources Mentioned:

• 📘 Dr. Susan Plunkett’s Book: A Jungian Understanding of Transcendent Experiences
• 🌐 Dr. Plunkett’s Website: susanplunkett.com
• 💬 Join the Conversation: Grief2Growth.com/community

About the Guest:

Dr. Susan Plunket is a Jungian psychologist, author, and guide to transcendent experiences with over 40 years of experience in private practice. Her work blends Jungian psychology, alchemical wholeness, and mystical insights to help individuals awaken to their authentic, infinite nature.

About the Host:

Brian Smith is the host of Grief 2 Growth, a podcast dedicated to exploring life, death, and the spaces in between. Brian provides insights and tools to help listeners navigate life’s challenges and awaken to their purpose.

Follow & Support the Show:

• 🌟 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review!
• 🔗 Follow us: Grief2Growth.com

Quote from the Episode:

"We are so much more than this body and this life. The paranormal reminds us of ou

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Can't wait to hear from you!

I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.

https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons

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In this episode, recorded during the "untimed" week between Christmas and New Year, I share personal stories and insights about the evolving nature of the holidays, the quiet joy of simpler traditions, and the bittersweet beauty of letting go.

From the magic of Christmas mornings with young children to the calm solitude of preparing a holiday brunch, I explore how life’s rhythms shift over time. I also delve into the questions many of us ponder as a new year approaches: What do we want to carry forward, and what do we need to release?

Join me for a heartfelt discussion about finding gratitude in life’s changes, embracing new rhythms, and looking ahead to the possibilities of the year to come. Whether you’re reflecting on the past, savoring the present, or planning for the future, this episode offers encouragement and perspective for your journey.

Keywords: Holidays, Reflection, Gratitude, Life Changes, New Year, Letting Go, Quiet Joy

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🌟 Episode Summary:

In this deeply moving episode of Grief 2 Growth, host Brian Smith sits down with Dolores Cruz and Allison Alison, two inspiring mothers who have transformed unimaginable loss into profound healing. Both are contributors to the book Shining Light Parents Speak, a collection of stories from parents who’ve found hope and connection after losing a child.

Dolores shares her journey after the loss of her son Eric, whose signs and presence continue to affirm their eternal bond. Allison recounts the transformative experience of her son Davey’s passing and the spiritual connection that has sustained her ever since. Together, they explore the power of community through Helping Parents Heal and the resilience born from the enduring love of their children.

💡 Whether you’re navigating loss, supporting someone who is, or seeking stories of hope, this episode offers wisdom, comfort, and connection.

🌟 Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Helping Parents Heal: helpingparentsheal.org
• Connect with the Grief 2 Growth Community: grief2growth.com/community
• Explore the book Shining Light Parents Speak: [Insert Purchase Link Here]
• Follow Dolores Cruz: [Insert Social Media/Website Link]
• Follow Allison Alison: [Insert Social Media/Website Link]

What signs or synchronicities have you experienced from loved ones? Share your stories with us in the comments or join the conversation in the Grief 2 Growth Community.

Don’t forget to:
👉 Subscribe and hit the 🔔 for updates on new episodes.
👉 Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help others find us!

🕺🏿 Join the free Grief 2 Growth community
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You can send me a text by clicking the link at the top of the show notes. Use fanmail to:

1.) Ask questions.
2.) Suggest future guests/topics.
3.) Provide feedback

Can't wait to hear from you!

I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.

https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons

Support the show

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Have you been told to suppress your emotions or "rise above" your feelings to achieve peace or spiritual growth? What if that’s the most dangerous lie you’ve ever believed?

In this episode, we uncover the truth: your emotions are not your enemies. They are the sacred language of your soul, guiding you to deeper understanding and growth. Drawing on the profound teachings of Seth through Jane Roberts, we explore how embracing your emotions can unlock spiritual wisdom and psychological balance.

We also take a closer look at Star Trek’s iconic Spock-Kirk dynamic to reveal the beauty of balancing logic and emotion. Plus, we discuss how emotional bypassing can lead to conflict in relationships and offer insights for building harmony when partners approach emotions differently.

You’ll leave with actionable tips to embrace your emotions and transform them into powerful tools for connection and growth.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why suppressing your emotions could be holding you back.
• How your emotions are a direct path to spiritual and psychological wisdom.
• Lessons from Star Trek: Spock, Kirk, and the balance between reason and feeling.
• How emotional bypassing creates tension in relationships—and how to heal it.
• Simple practices to embrace your emotions and live authentically.

Resources and Links:

• Connect with me: Website | Community Circle
• Join the Conversation: What role do emotions play in your life? Share your thoughts!
• Free Resources: Download my free guides to navigate grief and growth.

Stop believing the lie. Embrace your emotions. Start thriving. Listen now!

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Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode, Brian Smith welcomes internationally renowned musician, author, and sound healer Jeralyn Glass, who shares her deeply moving story of loss, healing, and transformation. After the sudden passing of her only child, Dylan, Jeralyn turned to the healing power of crystal alchemy singing bowls, blending her expertise in music with the transformative science of sound. Guided by Dylan’s presence and love, Jeralyn found a way to transform her grief into purpose and now helps others heal through the universal language of sound.

✨ Key Topics Covered:

• Jeralyn’s career as a celebrated opera singer and her transition to sound healing.
• How the loss of her son Dylan shaped her mission and deepened her understanding of love beyond death.
• The science behind crystal singing bowls and their unique vibrational healing properties.
• Stories of healing and transformation through sound medicine.
• Practical ways to incorporate sound healing into your daily life to soothe grief, reduce anxiety, and connect with higher frequencies.

💡 Why You Should Listen:
If you seek comfort, hope, and a new perspective on healing from grief, this episode offers a unique blend of personal storytelling, science, and spirituality. Learn how sound can be a bridge to connection, healing, and love that transcends time and space.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Jeralyn Glass: Crystal Cadence
• Discover the Crystal Sound Healing Oracle Deck: Crystal Cadence Shop
• Listen to Jeralyn’s music: Pentatonic Visions Album
• Explore Brian’s community: Grief 2 Growth Community

🕺🏿 Join the free Grief 2 Growth community
📝 Join me on Substack https://grief2growth.substack.com

You can send me a text by clicking the link at the top of the show notes. Use fanmail to:

1.) Ask questions.
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3.) Provide feedback

Can't wait to hear from you!

I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.

https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons

Support the show

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In a world where it feels like everything is falling apart—from climate change and geopolitical tensions to financial and political instability—what if the true power to create change lies within our collective consciousness? J

Join me as I explore how the disengagement of 90 million eligible voters in the last election might be contributing to global chaos and what we can do about it. 

We’ll dive into the fascinating intersection of quantum physics and spirituality, exploring how our collective focus—or lack thereof—can shape our reality. Tune in to discover how we, as spiritual individuals, can contribute to a more coherent and positive world—one where we are in the world, but not of the world. 

Let’s co-create the reality we desire, together.

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What happens when life delivers blow after blow, taking everything you hold dear? Dr. Kimberly Harms knows this all too well. After losing her son to suicide, her husband to illness, her mother to tragedy, and even her career, Kimberly could have stayed in the depths of despair. Instead, she clawed out of the grief pit, finding purpose, resilience, and joy.

In this deeply moving episode, Kimberly shares her remarkable story of surviving the unimaginable and how she’s now helping others navigate their grief journeys. She reveals the secrets to building resilience, creating a legacy of love, and finding light even in life’s darkest moments.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why respecting your partner’s grief is vital for a strong relationship.
• How Kimberly navigated the stigma of suicide and found peace through faith.
• The importance of building resilience in yourself and your children.
• How to leave a legacy of love that supports your family after you're gone.
• Lessons from Rwandan survivors on forgiveness and reconciliation.

About Our Guest:
Dr. Kimberly Harms is a dentist-turned-grief counselor, death doula, and author of Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For. After enduring devastating losses, including the death of her son and husband, Kimberly has dedicated her life to guiding others through the pain of grief and the joy of resilience.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Dr. Kimberly Harms’ Website: DrKimberlyHarms.com
• Join the Grief 2 Growth Community: grief2growth.com/community
• Kimberly’s Book: Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For
• Lessons on forgiveness and reconciliation from Rwanda

What resonated most with you in this episode? Share your thoughts and continue the conversation at grief2growth.com/community.

Follow Us:

• Subscribe to Grief 2 Growth wherever you listen to podcasts.
• Leave a review to let us know how this episode inspired you!

🕺🏿 Join the free Grief 2 Growth community
📝 Join me on Substack https://grief2growth.substack.com

You can send me a text by clicking the link at the top of the show notes. Use fanmail to:

1.) Ask questions.
2.) Suggest future guests/topics.
3.) Provide feedback

Can't wait to hear from you!

I've been studying Near Death Experiences for many years now. I am 100% convinced they are real. In this short, free ebook, I not only explain why I believe NDEs are real, I share some of the universal secrets brought back by people who have had them.

https://www.grief2growth.com/ndelessons

Support the show

🧑🏿‍🤝‍🧑🏻 Join Facebook Group- Get Support and Education
👛 Subscribe to Grief 2 Growth Premium (bonus episodes)
📰 Get A Free Gift
📅 Book A Complimentary Discovery Call
📈 Leave A Review

Thanks so much for your support