Support for Grieving Moms Speakers
You've got a powerful event coming up, but you're stuck trying to find the right voice to speak to grief, healing, and motherhood.
You want someone who really gets it - not just someone with a story, but someone who can hold space, connect deeply, and inspire real conversation.
But how do you find the right support for grieving moms speakers without spending hours searching through profiles that don't quite fit?
Support for grieving moms speakers offer more than personal experience.
They bring perspective, clarity, and often, a way forward for others in the room.
Whether you're planning a podcast episode, a virtual summit, or a live panel, these speakers know how to speak with empathy and purpose.
I've seen how a thoughtful, well-matched speaker can shift the tone of an entire event and help people feel seen.
Here, you'll find a curated list of support for grieving moms speakers who bring presence, credibility, and genuine care.
Explore the lineup and book someone who truly fits your audience and your goals.
Top Support for Grieving Moms Speakers List for 2026
Kim Hodous
From grief to happiness: Helping moms heal and connect directly with their child on the other side.
Maria Belanic
Healing isn’t forgetting, it’s holding love and loss.
Patricia Freudenberg
Transform grief into a legacy
PJ Jones
Because every survivor’s truth deserves to be heard.
Jan Canty
Supporting the grieving in the aftermath of homicide.
Alyssa Ciaccio
Transforming grief into hope through spiritual connections
Helen Antoniak
Adventurer, writer, and widowhood advocate—sharing life’s stories
Lynn Bagdasian
Unlock your potential, embrace your true self.
Bethan Thompson
Empowering minds, healing hearts—your warrior for wellness
Kim Hodous
Let's go Beyond Grief - how my son's afterlife connection turned my devastating loss into a remarkable spiritual journey.
What Makes a Great Support for Grieving Moms Speaker
Take someone like Nora McInerny, host of the 'Terrible, Thanks for Asking' podcast. She doesn't sugarcoat grief. She embraces the awkward, the painful, and the real. That's what makes her voice so powerful. Great speakers in this space don't rely on polished scripts or motivational clichés - they bring raw honesty, often sharing their own stories of loss, or drawing from years of working with grieving families. It's not about being perfect - it's about being present.
What separates a good speaker from a great one is their ability to hold space. That means knowing when to speak, when to pause, and how to read the emotional temperature of the room. They're skilled at navigating tough questions and unexpected emotions. They're not afraid of silence. In fact, they understand its power.
And let's not forget delivery. A great support for grieving moms speaker knows how to use tone, pacing, and body language to create a safe, welcoming environment. They're not there to perform - they're there to connect. That's what makes their message stick long after the talk is over.
So if you're looking for greatness in this space, don't just look at credentials. Look at their heart, their presence, and their ability to make even the most broken listener feel seen.
How to Select the Best Support for Grieving Moms Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Intent
- Are you speaking to newly grieving mothers, long-term survivors, or professionals supporting them?
- Clarify whether your show's tone is educational, inspirational, therapeutic, or a mix.
- This helps you filter speakers who match the emotional and intellectual level of your listeners.
2. Use Targeted Platforms Like Talks.co
- Talks.co is a great place to discover niche speakers, especially those who specialize in emotional wellness and grief support.
- Use filters to search by topic, tone, and experience level.
- Check speaker pages for testimonials, past appearances, and audience feedback.
3. Review Their Content and Delivery Style
- Watch their previous talks, podcast interviews, or YouTube videos.
- Pay attention to how they handle sensitive topics - do they offer comfort without being patronizing?
- Look for authenticity and clarity. Avoid speakers who rely heavily on platitudes.
4. Ask for References or Case Studies
- Reach out to previous hosts or event organizers.
- Ask how the speaker handled Q&A, emotional moments, and audience engagement.
- This is especially important in emotionally charged topics like grief.
5. Consider Cultural and Regional Relevance
- If your audience is global or multicultural, make sure the speaker's message is inclusive.
- Some speakers specialize in specific communities (e.g., BIPOC mothers, rural families, LGBTQ+).
By following these steps, you'll not only find a speaker who fits your show - you'll find someone who can truly serve your audience with compassion and clarity.
How to Book a Support for Grieving Moms Speaker
1. Start with a Shortlist
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse vetted speakers.
- Look for those with experience in grief, mental health, or maternal wellness.
- Save your top 3-5 candidates and review their speaker pages.
2. Reach Out with a Clear Ask
- When you message them, be specific: date, format (live, recorded, virtual), audience type, and topic focus.
- Example: "We're hosting a virtual summit for bereaved mothers in early healing stages. Would you be available for a 30-minute talk on navigating grief in the first year?"
3. Discuss Emotional Boundaries and Support
- This topic is emotionally heavy. Ask the speaker how they prefer to handle Q&A or triggering topics.
- Offer a moderator or mental health professional to be present if needed.
4. Confirm Logistics and Tech
- Share your platform (Zoom, StreamYard, etc.), recording policy, and promotional plan.
- Test audio/video beforehand. Grief talks require emotional nuance - poor audio can ruin the experience.
5. Promote with Sensitivity
- Avoid sensationalizing the topic. Use language that's respectful and grounded.
- Let the speaker review the promotional copy if possible.
6. Follow Up After the Event
- Send a thank-you note and share audience feedback.
- If the talk was recorded, offer a copy for their portfolio.
Booking a speaker in this space is about more than logistics - it's about trust. Treat the process with care, and you'll build lasting relationships with speakers who truly make a difference.
Common Questions on Support for Grieving Moms Speakers
What is a support for grieving moms speaker
Unlike general motivational speakers, these individuals focus specifically on the unique challenges faced by grieving mothers - from navigating anniversaries and holidays, to dealing with social isolation, to rebuilding identity after loss. Their talks are often deeply emotional, but also practical, offering tools for coping, community, and long-term healing.
They may speak at virtual summits, podcasts, retreats, support groups, or conferences focused on maternal health, grief, or mental wellness. Some are licensed professionals, while others are peer mentors or advocates who've built a platform through storytelling and advocacy.
What sets them apart is their ability to hold space for pain while also offering hope. They're not there to 'fix' grief - they're there to witness it, name it, and help others move through it with compassion and courage.
Why is a support for grieving moms speaker important
Grief is not a one-size-fits-all experience, especially for mothers. The emotional terrain is complex - guilt, anger, numbness, and longing can all exist at once. A speaker who understands this complexity can help normalize those feelings and reduce the isolation many moms feel. They become a voice that says, 'You're not alone, and you're not broken.'
In many communities, especially where mental health resources are limited or stigmatized, these speakers serve as accessible entry points to healing. Whether through a podcast episode, a live summit, or a YouTube talk, they reach people where they are - often in their darkest moments.
They're also important for educating others - partners, families, healthcare providers - on how to support grieving mothers. Their talks can shift cultural conversations around loss, helping to create more compassionate workplaces, schools, and communities.
So while they may not hold medical degrees or clinical licenses, their impact is deeply therapeutic. They offer language for the unspeakable and presence for the unbearable. That's why they matter.
What do support for grieving moms speakers do
- Share Personal or Professional Insights. Many speakers draw from their own experiences with loss, while others bring expertise from counseling, social work, or trauma-informed care. Either way, they offer perspectives that resonate deeply with grieving mothers.
- Educate and Normalize Grief. They explain the grieving process in relatable terms, helping moms understand that what they're feeling is valid. This might include discussing the stages of grief, coping strategies, or the neuroscience of trauma.
- Facilitate Connection. Whether through live Q&A, workshops, or follow-up resources, they help mothers connect with each other. That sense of shared experience can be incredibly healing.
- Offer Tools and Resources. Many provide downloadable guides, book recommendations, journaling prompts, or links to support groups. Their talks often include actionable takeaways.
- Advocate for Change. Some speakers use their platform to push for better bereavement leave policies, more inclusive healthcare, or increased funding for maternal mental health. They're not just supporting individuals - they're shifting systems.
In essence, support for grieving moms speakers are communicators, educators, and community builders. They help people navigate one of life's most painful experiences with more clarity, connection, and care.
How to become a support for grieving moms speaker
1. Clarify Your Message and Mission
- What unique perspective or experience do you bring to the table? Are you a licensed therapist, a mom who has experienced loss, or a grief coach? Define your story and how it connects to grieving moms.
- Tip: Focus on one core message that resonates emotionally. This helps event organizers understand your value quickly.
2. Build Your Signature Talk
- Create a 30- to 60-minute talk that blends personal story, practical advice, and emotional support.
- Include actionable takeaways, such as coping mechanisms, journaling prompts, or support group resources.
- Example: A speaker might structure their talk around the 5 stages of grief, weaving in their own journey and tools for resilience.
3. Create a Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker page. Include your bio, talk topics, testimonials, and a short video clip.
- Pro tip: Add a downloadable one-sheet for event organizers.
4. Connect with Hosts and Communities
- Reach out to grief support groups, churches, hospitals, nonprofits, and online summits. Many are looking for speakers who can offer comfort and guidance.
- Use Talks.co to connect directly with hosts who are searching for speakers in this niche.
5. Practice and Get Feedback
- Start small: offer free talks at local meetups or online webinars. Record them, review your performance, and refine.
- Ask for testimonials and referrals after each talk.
6. Scale Your Reach
- Once you've built credibility, pitch yourself to larger events, podcasts, and virtual summits.
- Consider creating a mini-course or workshop to offer alongside your talk.
It's not just about speaking. It's about being a voice of hope. And with the right tools and strategy, you can reach the people who need you most.
What do you need to be a support for grieving moms speaker
Emotional Readiness
Before anything else, you need to be emotionally grounded. Speaking to grieving moms requires empathy, vulnerability, and a deep sense of respect. If you've experienced grief yourself, make sure you're far enough along in your healing to hold space for others without being triggered.
Subject Matter Expertise
You don't need to be a licensed therapist, but you do need to understand grief. That could come from lived experience, professional training, or both. Many speakers in this space are:
- Grief coaches or counselors
- Parents who've lost children and now advocate for others
- Mental health professionals
- Authors or educators focused on trauma and healing
Public Speaking Skills
You'll need to be able to communicate clearly, compassionately, and confidently. That means:
- Structuring a talk with a clear beginning, middle, and end
- Using storytelling to connect emotionally
- Managing your tone and pacing to match the sensitivity of the topic
Professional Materials
To get booked, you'll need:
- A speaker page (Talks.co is a great place to start)
- A video reel or sample talk
- A list of talk topics and outcomes
- Testimonials or endorsements
A Way to Connect with Hosts
Platforms like Talks.co help you connect with event organizers, podcast hosts, and virtual summit planners. You can also network through grief support organizations, Facebook groups, and nonprofit events.
Being a support for grieving moms speaker isn't just about what you say. It's about how you show up. Your presence, your story, and your ability to hold space are just as important as your credentials.
Do support for grieving moms speakers get paid
Let's look at the variables:
- Experience Level: Newer speakers may start with unpaid or low-paid gigs to build credibility. Established speakers with a strong brand and media presence can command higher fees.
- Event Type: Nonprofits and grief support groups often have limited budgets, while corporate wellness programs or healthcare conferences may offer more competitive rates.
- Format: Keynote speeches, workshops, and virtual summits all have different pay structures. A 60-minute keynote might pay more than a panel appearance.
Pros of Paid Speaking in This Niche:
- You're offering emotional labor and expertise, which deserves compensation.
- Paid gigs often come with better promotion and higher-quality audiences.
- Speaking can lead to additional income streams (see the next section).
Cons:
- Some events expect speakers to volunteer, especially in nonprofit or memorial settings.
- It can take time to build a reputation that commands payment.
Quick Comparison Table:
| Type of Event | Typical Pay Range |
|---|---|
| Local grief support group | $0 - $250 |
| Online summit (unpaid exposure) | $0 - $100 (if any) |
| National conference | $500 - $5,000+ |
| Corporate wellness event | $1,000 - $10,000+ |
How do support for grieving moms speakers make money
1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This includes keynotes, breakout sessions, and panels at conferences, retreats, and summits. Rates vary depending on experience, audience size, and event type.
2. Online Summits and Virtual Events
Many speakers participate in virtual summits hosted on platforms like Zoom. These may be unpaid upfront but offer affiliate commissions, lead generation, or backend sales opportunities.
3. Coaching and Consulting
Some speakers offer 1:1 grief coaching or group programs. Speaking becomes a lead magnet for these services.
- Example: A speaker might offer a 6-week grief recovery program for moms, priced at $497.
4. Digital Products and Courses
Creating an online course or downloadable workbook can provide passive income.
- Example: A journaling guide for grieving mothers or a mini-course on navigating anniversaries and holidays.
5. Books and Publications
Publishing a memoir, guidebook, or anthology can establish authority and generate royalties.
- Tip: Bundle your book with speaking engagements for added value.
6. Sponsorships and Partnerships
Brands in the wellness, mental health, or parenting space may sponsor talks or collaborate on content.
7. Donations or Crowdfunding
Some speakers operate on a donation-based model, especially if they're part of a nonprofit or mission-driven initiative.
In short, speaking is often the front door. But the real income often comes from what's behind it: coaching, products, and partnerships. Smart speakers diversify their income streams to build a sustainable business.
How much do support for grieving moms speakers make
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0 to $500 per talk.
- Often speak at local events, support groups, or online summits.
- May receive compensation in the form of exposure, testimonials, or affiliate commissions.
Mid-Level Speakers
- Earn between $500 and $2,500 per engagement.
- Speak at regional conferences, wellness events, or corporate wellness programs.
- Likely have a speaker page on platforms like Talks.co and a growing email list.
Established Speakers
- Can command $5,000 to $15,000+ per keynote.
- Often have published books, media appearances, or TEDx talks.
- May also earn from coaching, courses, and partnerships.
Annual Income Estimates
| Speaker Tier | Talks/Year | Avg. Fee | Total Income (Speaking Only) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | 10 | $250 | $2,500 |
| Mid-Level | 20 | $1,000 | $20,000 |
| Established | 30 | $5,000 | $150,000 |
Many speakers supplement their speaking fees with:
- Coaching programs ($1,000 - $5,000 per client)
- Courses ($97 - $997)
- Book sales (royalties vary)
So while some speakers treat it as a side hustle, others build full-time businesses. The key is to combine speaking with scalable offers and a clear brand.
How much do support for grieving moms speakers cost
Cost Breakdown by Type of Speaker:
| Speaker Type | Typical Fee Range |
|---|---|
| Volunteer/Community Speaker | $0 - $250 |
| Emerging Speaker | $250 - $1,000 |
| Mid-Level Professional | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| High-Profile Expert | $5,000 - $15,000+ |
- Experience and Credentials: A licensed therapist or bestselling author will typically charge more than someone newer to the field.
- Event Format: In-person keynotes cost more than virtual panels. Travel, lodging, and prep time add to the fee.
- Customization: If the speaker is tailoring content for your audience or offering a workshop, expect to pay more.
- Audience Size and Reach: Larger events with more visibility often require higher fees.
Budget-Friendly Options:
- Look for speakers on Talks.co who offer sliding scale rates.
- Consider group sponsorships or crowdfunding to cover fees.
- Some speakers offer free talks in exchange for promotion or lead access.
In short, the cost depends on what you're looking for: a heartfelt story, a therapeutic workshop, or a high-impact keynote. There's a speaker for every budget.
Who are the best support for grieving moms speakers ever
- Angela Miller: Author of 'You Are the Mother of All Mothers', Angela is a powerful voice in the grief community. Her talks blend poetic language with raw truth.
- David Kessler: While not a mom, his collaborations with grieving mothers and his work on finding meaning after loss have made him a go-to speaker in this space.
- Dr. Joanne Cacciatore: Founder of the MISS Foundation, she combines academic research with lived experience. Her talks are deeply moving and grounded in science.
- CarlyMarie Dudley: Known for her healing art and online grief community, CarlyMarie's virtual talks and workshops have supported thousands of grieving moms worldwide.
- Nathalie Himmelrich: A psychotherapist and author who speaks globally on grief, trauma, and healing after child loss.
- Sherokee Ilse: A pioneer in perinatal loss education, Sherokee has been speaking for decades and training others to do the same.
- Kelly Farley: Founder of the Grieving Dads Project, his talks often include the overlooked perspective of grieving fathers, which resonates with many moms as well.
- Kristin Meekhof: A licensed social worker and widow, Kristin speaks on resilience and grief with a focus on women and mothers.
- Claire Bidwell Smith: A therapist and author who speaks on anticipatory grief, anxiety, and loss, often addressing maternal grief in her work.
Who are the best support for grieving moms speakers in the world
- CarlyMarie Dudley (Australia): A global leader in online grief support, CarlyMarie's art and virtual talks reach moms in over 100 countries.
- Dr. Joanne Cacciatore (USA): Her international speaking engagements and research-backed insights make her a sought-after voice in maternal grief.
- Nathalie Himmelrich (Switzerland): Fluent in multiple languages, Nathalie brings a European perspective to grief work. Her talks blend psychology and spirituality.
- Zoe Clark-Coates (UK): Founder of The Mariposa Trust, Zoe is a prominent speaker and advocate for baby loss awareness in the UK and beyond.
- Sunita Puri (USA/India): A palliative care physician and speaker who often addresses end-of-life care and maternal grief in cross-cultural contexts.
- Rachel Lewis (USA): Founder of The Lewis Note and author of 'Unexpecting', her talks focus on miscarriage and emotional recovery.
- Samantha Ruth (USA): A licensed psychologist and speaker who helps grieving moms navigate mental health challenges after loss.
- Megan Devine (USA): Though not a mom herself, her work with grieving parents and her book 'It's OK That You're Not OK' have made her a global grief authority.
- Dr. Shefali Tsabary (USA/India): While more widely known for conscious parenting, her talks often touch on grief, loss, and emotional healing for mothers.
Common myths about support for grieving moms speakers
1. You need to be a licensed therapist to speak on grief.
This is a common misunderstanding. While clinical credentials are valuable in therapeutic settings, support for grieving moms speakers are not necessarily therapists. Many are peer supporters, authors, or individuals who have walked through loss and now offer hope, tools, and connection. Think of someone like Angela Miller, founder of A Bed for My Heart. She's not a clinician, but her voice has reached millions because of her lived experience and ability to articulate grief in a way that resonates.
2. Only moms who have lost a child can be support for grieving moms speakers.
While many speakers in this niche are bereaved mothers themselves, others include grief coaches, spiritual leaders, or even siblings and partners who offer a different lens. What matters is empathy, relevance, and the ability to connect. For example, David Kessler, a globally known grief expert, often shares insights that resonate deeply with grieving mothers, even though he is not one himself.
3. Grief talks are always heavy and depressing.
Not true. While the topic is serious, many speakers bring light, hope, and even humor into their talks. They create space for healing, not just mourning. Speakers like Nora McInerny, who blends humor with heartbreak, show that grief conversations can be dynamic, layered, and even uplifting.
4. There's no real audience for this kind of speaking.
This myth is flat-out wrong. Conferences, churches, hospitals, nonprofits, and online summits regularly seek speakers who can address grief, especially maternal grief. The demand has grown, especially post-pandemic, as more people seek emotional support and community.
5. It's too niche to build a career around.
Actually, niche is power. Speakers who focus on grieving moms often find deeply loyal audiences and opportunities to expand into books, coaching, courses, and retreats. The specificity of the niche builds trust and authority faster than trying to speak to everyone.
Case studies of successful support for grieving moms speakers
Take the case of Rachel Whalen, founder of An Unexpected Family Outing. After the stillbirth of her daughter, she began writing online. Her raw, poetic posts resonated with thousands. Over time, she was invited to speak at hospitals, bereavement events, and podcasts. Her voice became a lifeline for grieving mothers who felt invisible. She didn't start with a business plan. She started with honesty.
Then there's Dr. Joanne Cacciatore, a researcher and grief educator who founded the MISS Foundation. Her talks blend science with soul. She speaks at universities, medical conferences, and spiritual retreats. Her success lies in her ability to bridge the academic and emotional worlds, making her a sought-after speaker globally.
Another example is the duo behind The Morning podcast, which features conversations around child loss and motherhood. They started with a simple idea: create a space where moms could hear from others who 'get it.' Their audience grew organically, and now they're invited to speak at summits and collaborate with mental health organizations.
What ties these stories together? None of them waited for permission. They started by sharing, connecting, and showing up consistently. Whether through writing, speaking, or podcasting, they built trust. And that trust opened doors.
Success as a support for grieving moms speaker doesn't follow a single path. It's about finding your voice, showing up where your audience gathers, and offering something real. Whether you're speaking to 10 people in a church basement or 10,000 on a livestream, the impact is real. And that's what counts.
Future trends for support for grieving moms speakers
One major trend: virtual grief summits and online communities. Since 2020, we've seen a surge in virtual events focused on grief and healing. Speakers who can deliver impact through a screen are in high demand. Platforms like Zoom, Hopin, and even Clubhouse have hosted grief-centered conversations that draw thousands.
Another shift: intersectional grief storytelling. Audiences are asking for more diverse voices. They want to hear from LGBTQ+ parents, BIPOC mothers, and those from different cultural or religious backgrounds. This opens up space for speakers who can speak to grief through multiple lenses.
We're also seeing corporate wellness programs expanding their definition of support. Companies are hiring grief speakers to talk about loss in the workplace, especially as more employees navigate personal tragedies while balancing work. This creates new opportunities for speakers who can bridge personal grief with professional resilience.
And don't overlook AI-powered content tools. Speakers are using tools like Jasper and Descript to repurpose talks into blog posts, social media clips, or even books. This helps them scale their message without burning out.
Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Micro-communities: Smaller, private grief groups hosted on platforms like Mighty Networks or Geneva.
- Hybrid events: In-person + livestreamed grief panels or retreats.
- On-demand grief content: Courses, meditations, and talks available anytime.
- Collaborative speaking: Panels featuring multiple grieving moms with different experiences.
- Global reach: Speakers from Australia, South Africa, and Latin America are gaining visibility thanks to translation tools and global platforms.
The future isn't just about more speakers. It's about more nuance, more access, and more ways to connect. If you're thinking about stepping into this space, now's a good time to start building.
Tools and resources for aspiring support for grieving moms speakers
1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a goldmine for new speakers. You can create a profile, pitch yourself to relevant podcasts, and start building visibility in the grief and wellness space.
2. Grief Speaks. A directory of grief speakers and resources. Great for researching how others position themselves and for finding events to attend or speak at.
3. Canva. For creating speaker one-sheets, social media graphics, and presentation slides. Their templates make it easy to look polished, even if you're not a designer.
4. Descript. A powerful tool for editing audio and video. Use it to repurpose your talks into reels, audiograms, or transcripts for blog posts.
5. Mighty Networks. If you're building a community around your message, this is a great platform to host private grief support groups or course content.
6. Eventbrite. Not just for finding events, but also for hosting your own virtual or in-person grief talks. Their tools make registration and promotion simple.
7. The Speaker Lab. Offers training and resources for building a speaking business. While not grief-specific, their frameworks can help you craft your message, pitch, and pricing.
Pro tip: Start small. Use Canva to create a one-sheet, then pitch yourself on Talks.co. Record a few podcast episodes, then repurpose them using Descript. Over time, these tools help you build momentum without burning out.