The School of Greatness The School of Greatness

The Grief Expert Who Discovered a Sixth Stage | David Kessler

Aug 10, 2026 · 1h 22m

Summary

Lewis Howes interviews grief expert David Kessler, who introduces a sixth stage of grief: finding meaning. Kessler shares his personal journey after losing his son, explaining that grief is fundamentally about managing unwanted change. The conversation explores how witnessing pain, accepting emotions, and avoiding the trap of "bargaining" can transform suffering into a fuller, more authentic life.

Topics discussed

Intro, Ads, and Show Mission The Six Stages of Grief Explained David Kessler's Personal Loss and Finding Meaning Hope, Bargaining, and the Link Between Grief and Love Regrets, Unfelt Feelings, and Witnessing Grief Healing from Childhood Trauma and Sexual Abuse Teaching Emotional Intelligence to Children Triggers, Avoidance, and Facing Pain Success as a Mask for Unresolved Pain Relationships, Boundaries, and Future Anxiety The Power of Connection and Living Again Three Final Truths and Definition of Greatness
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