THE
PARENT PODCAST
A Mother’s Journey -
Turning Indescribable Grief Into Action
with Kerry Kirsch
Show Notes
Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised.
In this powerful Suicide Awareness Month episode, the hosts sit down with Kerry Kirsch, a mom who bravely shares the heartbreaking story of losing her firstborn to suicide and the long, winding journey of healing that followed. Together, they discuss warning signs, what to say (and not to say), and practical steps families and friends can take to support someone struggling—including resources like 988 and The Trevor Project. This episode includes candid conversations about suicide, grief, and recovery, along with hope, community, and tools for self-care.
Why It Matters
Marci and Debbie sit down with mom and advocate, Kerry Kirsch, who shares the heartbreaking story of losing her firstborn son, Bevin, to suicide just days after his 18th birthday. Kerry opens up about the shock, the year-long blur of grief, the profound guilt and anger, and the unexpected kindness of a doctor who offered compassion and education when she needed it most. She reflects on faith as a lifeline, the “one pick at a time” iceberg metaphor that helped her move through the pain, and the reminder that there’s no true closure—only a lifelong relationship with loss. Kerry also shares Bevin’s warmth and kindness, urging parents to stay present, prioritize connection, and pay attention to subtle changes in their kids.
Healing, Tools, and Community
Kerry talks about rebuilding a life after devastating loss—leaving her home, navigating divorce, leaning on family, and seeking therapy. She found purpose in creativity, learning to make moccasins with a cousin and later teaching the craft to teens in youth centers and detention facilities—helping young people experience accomplishment and value with their own hands. Marci and Debbie also introduce resources to support mental wellness, including the CourTools app (lifetime early-adopter access) and their Facebook community, From Chaos to Calm: A Sanctuary for Moms—safe spaces to learn, practice tools, and connect with others who care.
Facts, Warning Signs, and What to Do
The hosts close with hard truths and hope. They discuss recent statistics, the disproportionate impact on men, the role of firearms, and how isolation and harmful cultural norms can intensify risk. They outline warning signs like hopelessness, “leaking” intent, giving away possessions, withdrawal, and sudden calm after a period of deep distress. They offer clear, actionable guidance: ask directly about suicidal thoughts, assess for a plan, remove access to lethal means when safe to do so, stay with the person, and bring in professional support. Kerry welcomes connection from listeners who need a compassionate ear and shares her email on the show. Above all, the message is consistent: you matter, you’re not alone, and together we can make it through—one small step at a time.
If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 (US/Canada). For LGBTQIA+ support, contact The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7388 or text START to 678-678.
Thank you so much for listening to this episode! This podcast is dedicated to supporting families through the ups and downs of parenting and mental wellness. We know how tough it can be to raise kids in today’s world, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join us and let’s lift each other up.
With love,
Marci & Debbie
THE
PARENT PODCAST
A Mother’s Journey - Turning Indescribable Grief Into Action
with Kerry Kirsch
Show Notes
Please note that this episode discusses sensitive and triggering topics - audience discretion advised
In this powerful Suicide Awareness Month episode, the hosts sit down with Kerry Kirsch, a mom who bravely shares the heartbreaking story of losing her firstborn to suicide and the long, winding journey of healing that followed. Together, they discuss warning signs, what to say (and not to say), and practical steps families and friends can take to support someone struggling—including resources like 988 and The Trevor Project. This episode includes candid conversations about suicide, grief, and recovery, along with hope, community, and tools for self-care.
Key Points
From This Episode:
01:57 - A Mother’s Journey
10:17 - Healing, Tools, and Community
21:18 - Facts, Warning Signs, and What to Do
A Mother’s Journey
Marci and Debbie sit down with mom and advocate, Kerry Kirsch, who shares the heartbreaking story of losing her firstborn son, Bevin, to suicide just days after his 18th birthday. Kerry opens up about the shock, the year-long blur of grief, the profound guilt and anger, and the unexpected kindness of a doctor who offered compassion and education when she needed it most. She reflects on faith as a lifeline, the “one pick at a time” iceberg metaphor that helped her move through the pain, and the reminder that there’s no true closure—only a lifelong relationship with loss. Kerry also shares Bevin’s warmth and kindness, urging parents to stay present, prioritize connection, and pay attention to subtle changes in their kids.
Kerry talks about rebuilding a life after devastating loss—leaving her home, navigating divorce, leaning on family, and seeking therapy. She found purpose in creativity, learning to make moccasins with a cousin and later teaching the craft to teens in youth centers and detention facilities—helping young people experience accomplishment and value with their own hands. Marci and Debbie also introduce resources to support mental wellness, including the CourTools app (lifetime early-adopter access) and their Facebook community, From Chaos to Calm: A Sanctuary for Moms—safe spaces to learn, practice tools, and connect with others who care.
Facts, Warning Signs, and What to Do
The hosts close with hard truths and hope. They discuss recent statistics, the disproportionate impact on men, the role of firearms, and how isolation and harmful cultural norms can intensify risk. They outline warning signs like hopelessness, “leaking” intent, giving away possessions, withdrawal, and sudden calm after a period of deep distress. They offer clear, actionable guidance: ask directly about suicidal thoughts, assess for a plan, remove access to lethal means when safe to do so, stay with the person, and bring in professional support. If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 (US/Canada). For LGBTQIA+ support, contact The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7388 or text START to 678-678. Kerry welcomes connection from listeners who need a compassionate ear and shares her email on the show. Above all, the message is consistent: you matter, you’re not alone, and together we can make it through—one small step at a time.
Thank you so much for listening to this episode! This podcast is dedicated to supporting families through the ups and downs of parenting and mental wellness. We know how tough it can be to raise kids in today’s world, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join us and let’s lift each other up.
With love,
Marci & Debbie
We're on a mission to educate, inspire and transform lives, ages 4-104 using basic scientifically proven methods and tools to decrease stress, anxiety and to increase resiliency and overall well-being.
2882 Prospect Park Dr. Suite 100,
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
(916) 340-5252
© 2019 Cour Experience Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Non-Profit 501c3 EIN: 84-3383699
We're on a mission to educate, inspire and transform lives, ages 4-104 using basic scientifically proven methods and tools to decrease stress, anxiety and to increase resiliency and overall well-being.
2882 Prospect Park Dr. Suite 100,
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
(916) 340-5252
© 2019 Cour Experience Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Non-Profit 501c3 EIN: 84-3383699