In this week's episode, I'm joined by Phillipa and Hazel, the brilliant duo behind Music to Die For, a beautiful project exploring how music connects us to those we've lost.

Phillipa lost her husband Rob suddenly four and a half years ago. What's fascinating is that music - which had been her whole life as a musician and teacher - completely disappeared after Rob died. But it came back in the most powerful ways.

Hazel, a clinical psychologist with a deep love of music, met Phillipa at a grief and music think tank. Their instant connection sparked Music to Die For, where people share stories about pieces of music that connect them to someone they've lost.

This is such a beautiful conversation about how music supports us through grief and helps us stay connected to our loved ones.

In this episode we explore:

• Why music either becomes our greatest comfort or completely disappears after loss
• How grief is our brain learning to rewire without our person - and why it takes so much longer than society expects
• The beautiful reframe: "grief has taught me how to live" rather than learning to live with grief
• How Music to Die For creates a safe space for sharing stories and feeling less alone
• Their plans for retreats, walking weekends, and a book of 365 musical stories
• Why music helps us "time travel" to precious memories whilst building new ones

Resources mentioned:

• Music to Die For: https://www.musictodiefor.co.uk/ (free to share your story)
• Widowed and Walking UK Facebook group
• "The Grieving Brain" by Mary Frances O'Connor

For More Support:

The Widows Membership: karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Coaching and retreats: karensutton.co.uk