Decluttering Grief with Put It There Organizer Michelle Cooper

When grief hits, the last thing many of us feel ready to face is “the stuff” left behind—clothing, toiletries, papers, and memory-soaked objects that now carry the weight of absence. In this heart-opening episode, we sit down with Michelle Cooper, Certified Professional Organizer and founder of Put It There, to explore the emotional and logistical layers of decluttering after loss.

 

Michelle shares her compassionate approach to helping clients sort through a loved one’s belongings—from the practical (where to start, what to keep, and what to release) to the deeply emotional (what it means to hold on, let go, and create space for healing). We talk about the power of control in the midst of chaos, how grief shows up in unexpected places (like a stick of deodorant), and why not every decision has to be made right away.

 

Whether you’re facing a sudden loss, living with grief years later, or supporting someone through it, this episode offers gentle guidance, insight, and even a few laughs along the way. Decluttering isn’t just about letting go—it’s about making space for what still matters.

 

📦 Topics include:

• Where to begin when everything feels overwhelming

• The emotional landmines of organizing after loss

• Why grief isn’t linear—and neither is decluttering

• Sentimental items vs. everyday memories

• Honoring loved ones while moving forward

 

📍Learn more about Michelle’s work at put-it-there.com or follow her:

• Instagram: @put_it_there_atl
• Facebook

 

💛 If this episode resonates, please share it with someone walking through grief. Subscribe to Grief & Grit on your favorite podcast platform, follow us on Instagram or Facebook, and join the conversation on Substack.