Series 1 Episode 8 Summary:

Athene Parker is in glorious conversation with McCann Birmingham MD Lucy Hudson. Lucy is an all-round, incredibly inspiring woman. Her story is deeply moving and we do have a:

‼️TRIGGER WARNING‼️

In this powerful episode, Lucy shares her journey of leadership through the ultimate test—losing her first child, Poppy, to a brain tumour. Now MD of McCann Birmingham, she speaks openly about navigating grief at work and educating organisations on how to support teams facing profound loss.

Lucy reflects on how tragedy reshaped her leadership style, her career path and her belief that there is life after loss—no matter how unreachable that may feel. This episode explores the intersection of personal grief and professional responsibility, with insights into resilience, vulnerability and community.

Lucy is a proud mother of three and lives with her husband and Poppy’s two sisters.

The conversation flows through a trip down musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy.

Tracks:

1. Thank You For The Music – ABBA
2. Working 9-5 – Dolly Parton
3. Together in Electric Dreams – Phil Oakey
4. Stronger – Kelly Clarkson
5. Weightless – Marconi Union

The emPOWER Breakfast – Lucy Hudson – Spotify Playlist

Key Topics:

Leadership Through Crisis – Balancing work with personal grief

Workplace Grief – Creating supportive environments

Team Support – How to show up for grieving colleagues

Authentic Leadership – Why vulnerability is a strength

Supporting Colleagues Through Grief – Tips:

Listen, don’t fix

Follow their lead – Let them share at their pace

Offer specific help – “Can I handle the client call today?”

Respect their process – Grief has no timeline

Ongoing Support:

Check in regularly – Often, support is most needed after the funeral

Remember key dates – Offer flexibility on anniversaries or birthdays

Include them – Don’t assume they want to be alone

Be patient – Grief affects focus and decision-making

What NOT to Say:

“I know how you feel.”

“They’re in a better place.”

“How old? That’s a good innings.”

“Everything happens for a reason.”

“You need to move on.”

Any “At least…” statements

What TO Say:

“I’m thinking of you.”

“I’m here if you need me.”

“Would you like to talk about [their loved one]?”

“There’s no right way to grieve.”

“How are you today/this afternoon?” (Be specific)

If You’re Bereaved: The Five Stages of Grief (Kübler-Ross Model):

1. Denial – “This can’t be happening”
2. Anger – “Why me? This isn’t fair”
3. Bargaining – “If only…”
4. Depression – Sadness and withdrawal
5. Acceptance – Coming to terms with reality

These stages aren’t linear. You may revisit or skip them. Knowing the model can help make sense of your experience.

Useful Resources:

Cruse Bereavement Care – Free advice/support

The Compassionate Friends – Support for bereaved parents/siblings

Child Bereavement UK – Family support

Winston’s Wish – Support for grieving children/young people

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