As Mother’s Day approaches, many individuals find themselves grappling with complex emotions surrounding the holiday. For those who have experienced loss, the day can serve as a poignant reminder of what is missing. In this context, Ryanne Saucier, the creator and host of the podcast “How Do I Do This?”, offers a unique perspective on navigating grief.
Launched after the unexpected passing of her mother in November 2024, Saucier’s podcast aims to create a supportive space for those dealing with similar feelings. She fondly reminisces about her mother, Sharon, describing her as the epitome of a Southern belle, a dedicated teacher who valued etiquette and manners.
In her quest for solace, Saucier found existing resources lacking, particularly podcasts hosted by individuals who had ample support systems. This realization inspired her to develop her own platform. “One morning in my quiet time, I just felt this little whisper that said, ‘well, why don’t you create it and show people what you’re doing?'” she recalled. Her podcast features a variety of discussions about grief, encompassing themes like the loss of friendships, pets, and even career transitions.
Saucier emphasizes that while the show begins with a focus on grief, its ultimate goal is to explore how to live meaningfully and enrich one’s life. “It’s really a show about how to live well with the time that we have,” she stated, noting that it is not meant to be a somber experience.
In anticipation of Mother’s Day, Saucier plans to share practical advice on her podcast’s Instagram page, offering insights on how to support loved ones during this emotionally charged time. She recognizes that grief can manifest in various forms, whether stemming from the loss of a mother or the longing to become one.
Her first piece of advice for those supporting a grieving partner is to initiate a conversation about their wishes for the day. “The second thing, busy women, we suffer from decision fatigue. Make a plan and say, based on what you told me, this is what I think we should do, but also be flexible,” she suggested. Saucier also cautions against adding unnecessary chaos to the day, particularly in the kitchen.
As she prepares for her second Mother’s Day without her mother, Saucier acknowledges the bittersweet nature of the occasion. “I have high grief and low grief days, sort of like tides in the ocean,” she reflected. While her son is eager to celebrate her and she cherishes the role of motherhood, Saucier also feels the absence of her mother keenly. “The bitter is that I can’t share that experience with my mom and celebrate her too,” she lamented.
The “How Do I Do This?” podcast is available on all major podcast platforms, offering a resource for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of grief.
