Hannah’s Story: Rediscovering Purpose & Identity After Loss

In this heartfelt episode of the Yarns for the Soul podcast, my sister Nicole (yes, my real life sister!) and I dive into the profound and often messy journey of grief. Together, we explored the raw realities of loss, the resilience it takes to navigate its depths, and the mental health tools that have helped us along the way.  

I shared my personal story of navigating grief after losing my father, my best friend Caleb, and my grandfather in quick succession. We discuss how these profound losses transformed not only my identity but also my approach to life, sparking a new path as a coach. This candid conversation sheds light on the ongoing nature of grief and the ways we can move forward, step by step, while carrying the weight of loss.

My path has been shaped by unimaginable loss, but also by my unique perspective as an endurance athlete and now as a coach. I hope that my honesty about navigating grief, adapting to change, and rediscovering joy provides powerful insights for anyone encountering their own moments of struggle and growth.  

Check out the highlights of our conversation ⬇️  

Q: Can you share the starting point of your journey with grief? 

A: “In 2018, everything began to unravel. My dad was diagnosed with cancer early that year. Just months later, in October, my best friend Caleb—the one person I trusted completely—died in an accident. A week before that, we found out my dad's prognosis was terminal.  

It felt like standing on a tiny island as floodwaters rose around me. When Dad passed away in January 2019, I fell into what I can only describe as an abyss. It was dark, disorienting, and beyond anything I had faced. Later that year, we lost Grandad too, completing what I call the deaths of my 'three wise men.'”  

Q: How did your background as an endurance athlete shape your response to grief?

A: “Before the losses, I found identity and confidence as an endurance athlete. I trained for and competed in long distance events - multisport, multi-day affairs. But after my dad’s death, I realized I couldn’t push my body the same way.  

Grief brought total exhaustion—I could barely manage a short walk without needing a nap. I had to relearn how to listen to my body. Instead of high-intensity training, I turned to yin yoga and slow walks, finding stillness and softness where once there was intensity.  

It was humbling but healing. I began to treasure my body in new ways, seeing physical activity as a way to nurture myself rather than prove my strength.”  

Q: What lessons from grief do you carry into your current work as a coach?

A: “I learned that everyone’s grief is unique and messy, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. For me, embracing my emotions without judgment and slowing down helped me heal.  

Now, I work as a coach, holding space for people navigating their own adversity. I also facilitate a local grief support group. It’s incredible to create a space where grievers feel seen and can share their unfiltered experiences. Grief isn’t something to 'get over'—it’s something we carry with us as part of our lives.”  

Q: What advice would you give to someone supporting a grieving loved one?  

A: “First, show up. Go to the funeral. It may feel awkward or inconvenient, but your presence will never be forgotten.  

Second, say something. Even if you don’t know what to say, acknowledge their loss. A simple ‘I’m thinking of you’ is enough. Don’t put pressure on the griever to comfort you or carry the conversation.  

Finally, take action. Don’t ask, ‘What can I do?’ Instead, bring them a meal, walk their dog, or run an errand. Grievers often don’t have the capacity to make decisions, so taking the initiative is invaluable.”  

Q: How has your journey with grief transformed your life?

A: “Grief reshaped everything for me. It deepened my empathy and gave me a sense of purpose. I now live in Manapouri, surrounded by the mountains and wilderness that have been so grounding for me.  

Helping others through their challenges has become my calling. It’s a way to honor my journey and give back. I’m grateful to hold space for people as they navigate one of the toughest experiences of their lives.”  

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My intention is that by sharing my story you will be strengthened and inspired as you navigate your own flavour of adversity. 

Listen to the full episode on the Rewild You podcast - simply search for the podcast on your fave platform and scroll to the episode “Hannah’s Story: Rediscovering Purpose & Identity After Loss”.

If this conversation resonated with you, brought up questions, or if you’d like to chat further, I’d love to connect. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

📆 Book a free navigation session to explore how I can support you in your journey through grief and beyond.

📧 Prefer to start with a message? Send me an email at hello@rewildyouhq.com, and let’s start the conversation.