Matt Jacobson’s Journey into Grief, Legacy, and End-of-Life Reflections

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Matt Jacobson shares the story of how losing his father changed the course of his life and inspired a deeper connection to legacy, grief, and purpose. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on fatherhood, the impact of grief, and how honoring a loved one can lead to unexpected healing and direction.

Matt grew up in Temecula, California, and was studying finance at San Diego State when he received the devastating call that his father had died. He left his plans behind and returned home to take over the family’s mattress store, an unexpected path that placed him squarely in his father’s shoes. As he ran the business, memories of his dad flooded back, especially their early morning conversations and the life lessons tucked into everyday moments. His dad had been a single father raising three boys, encouraging learning through reading and sparking Matt’s entrepreneurial spirit in creative ways, like hiding pizza money in exchange for reading assignments.

Grief gave Matt a new lens on life. He began thinking more about legacy and how quickly someone’s story can fade unless it’s captured. His father's quiet wisdom, deep respect for education, and stoic leadership had shaped Matt's values. Though his father rarely raised his voice, his words held lasting power. Matt recalls their last hike together before studying abroad, unaware that it would be one of their final moments together. His father had hidden the return of his cancer—a selfless act so Matt wouldn’t worry. Just weeks later, Matt got the call: his father was gone.

This conversation touches on grief, healing, the transition of roles after death, and how we honor those we’ve lost. It’s significant for anyone interested in death doula work, end-of-life planning, or creating legacy projects for loved ones.

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