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April 7, 2025 54 mins

How do we find hope after loss? Can grief, addiction, and pain lead to personal growth and transformation?

In this episode of Encountering, I sit down with Jeff Johnston, who shares his deeply personal journey through grief, healing, and sobriety after the loss of his son and wife. Through his story, he explores the concept of beauty from ashes—how life's darkest moments can lead to resilience, self-discovery, and purpose.

🎧 You will learn:
 ● How grief can be a catalyst for growth and transformation
 ● The truth about addiction, sobriety, and finding clarity
 ● Why self-compassion and mindfulness are key to healing
 ● How to find meaning, gratitude, and connection after loss
 ● The power of leading by example and shaping the next generation

Jeff’s story is a testament to the human spirit, resilience, and the power of finding purpose in pain. If you're navigating loss, addiction, or searching for healing, this conversation is for you.

00:00 - Introduction: Jeff Johnston’s Story of Loss, Healing & Resilience
01:35 - Turning Pain into Purpose: The Beauty from Ashes Mindset
07:42 - Grief & Loss: How to Navigate Heartbreak & Find Strength
12:00 - The Healing Journey: Overcoming Trauma & Finding Hope
18:21 - Lessons from Sorrow: Growth, Mindfulness & Moving Forward
28:14 - Finding Meaning in Pain: Gratitude, Acceptance & Resilience
30:10 - Alcohol & Addiction: How Sobriety Transforms Your Life
32:38 - Self-Compassion: Healing Starts with Forgiving Yourself
36:22 - Mindfulness & Mental Health: How to Find Inner Peace
39:21 - Living Undeterred: Turning Grief Into a Life of Purpose
42:48 - Connection & Healing: Why Relationships Matter in Recovery
47:25 - Leading by Example: Teaching Future Generations About Strength
51:15 - Beauty from Ashes: How to Transform Pain into Personal Growth

You can find Jeff at:
Living Undeterred: https://www.livingundeterred.org
Brightn App: brightnapp.com
Brightn Merchandise: www.brightn.shop 

Find my interview playlist on YouTube Dr Suzanne Simpson, at Get On Their Turf:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HC8JprFdrPA&list=PLi7xFsX7h7tdxBsVx38UIRVrvnCc_9IBW


New releases every second Monday 8:00 am PST.

👉 Connect with me for more parenting insights and support:

Instagram: / drsuzannesimpson
LinkedIn: / dr-suzanne-simpson-2380112a9
Facebook: ...

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