Grieving with Hope: Light Always Breaks after the Storm - Interview with Amanda McNeil

Overwhelmed to Overcomer

In this deeply compassionate episode, Anna McLaughlin sits down with Dr. Amanda McNeil—therapist, pastor, author, and "velvet hammer" of truth—to talk about what it really means to grieve with God. With over 15 years of counseling experience and personal stories of loss, infertility, and healing, Amanda brings wisdom that is both clinical and soul-soothing.

They explore how grief is more than bereavement—it's the emotional process of adapting to unwanted change. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, a dream, a job, or a sense of normalcy, Amanda equips listeners with practical tools and spiritual truths to navigate grief without losing faith. Her book, Overcoming the Overcast: Navigating the Storms of Grief with God, became an Amazon #1 New Release in Christian Counseling in November 2024.

Through honest dialogue, Amanda and Anna offer hope, theology, and tangible steps to face grief in God's grace.

About Our Guest:

Dr. Amanda McNeil holds a Master's in Christian Counseling and a PhD in Psychology and Theology. She brings over 15 years of experience in clinical counseling, pastoral leadership, and coaching. Known for her "velvet hammer" approach—truth wrapped in kindness—Amanda combines academic rigor with deep personal empathy. She co-founded a counseling and coaching organization with her husband and pastors one of their church's campuses in Florida. Together, they're raising their 9-year-old son and championing mental and spiritual wholeness in the Church.

Key Topics Discussed

• Grief is more than death—includes all unwanted changes.

• Grief can challenge but deepen faith in God.

• Tools: journaling, voice notes, community, self-awareness.

• Suppressed emotions resurface—let them rise.

• God welcomes honest grief—healing is slow and sacred.

Books & Resources Mentioned

Overcoming the Overcast: Navigating the Storms of Grief with God – Free chapter & more at dramandamcneil.com

Grief Journal: Guided prompts by Dr. Amanda McNeil to track emotional growth

Connect with Dr. Amanda McNeil:

Website Instagram

Free Resource:

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The show notes above may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Please contact me with questions.The show notes above may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Please contact me with questions.

MUSIC CREDITS

Theme music: Brave New World

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Artist: Fantoms

Inspiring Hopeful

Audio source: Jamendo

Artist: Aliaksei Yukhnevich

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