Opening a Door to Grief, with Anne Gudger & Maria Gibson

Mother-daughter duo Anne Gudger and Maria Gibson open up about their powerful journey through grief and how it became their shared mission. After losing her husband while pregnant with Maria's older brother, Anne transformed her pain into purpose. Together, they've created a safe space for others to explore and express their grief through podcasts, a reading group, and writing workshops.

In this moving interview, Anne and Maria reveal: • How grief became Anne's unexpected "superpower" • The surprising ways their work has impacted people's lives • Their unique approach to holding space for others' grief stories • Their hopes of bringing grief education to schools • The beautiful dynamic of working together as mother and daughter

Discover how these inspiring women are normalizing the conversation around grief and loss. Their story will touch your heart and may even transform how you view your own experiences with grief. Don't miss this intimate look at turning pain into purpose and connection.

Show Notes:  Introduction Anne's Grief Journey Maria's Perspective on Grief Grief as a Superpower Maria's Work and Empathy Working Together as Mother and Daughter Reflection and Community Impact Future Goals and Vision Closing Reflections

Guest Bio:  Anne Gudger is a Portland-based author known for her poignant exploration of themes such as love, loss, and grief. She has contributed to various publications, including Real Simple Magazine, The Rumpus, and Columbia Journal, and has won multiple essay contests, earning nominations for Best of the Net twice. Her debut memoir, The Fifth Chamber, was published in September 2023 by Jaded Ibis Press and delves into her personal experience of becoming a young widow after the tragic death of her husband in a car accident while she was pregnant with their son. 

In addition to her writing, Anne and her daughter, Maria Gibson, founded Coffee and Grief, a community initiative that includes a podcast and monthly reading series focused on grief. They also lead writing workshops on the topic. Together, this mother-daughter duo seeks to normalize discussions around grief and provide support for those navigating their own experiences of loss.

Learn more about Anne & Maria's work and connect with them:

Website

Instagram

The Fifth Chamber

Coffee, Grief & Gratitude Podcast

Coffee Talk Reading Group

Coffee & Grief Community