Grief does not arrive at work as a policy issue. It arrives as silence, hesitation, and people not knowing what to say. And that silence can hurt more than the loss itself.

In this episode of Stories and Strategies, hosts Farzana Baduel and Doug Downs speak with grief-informed communication expert Cindy Lang about why grief in the workplace must be addressed first as a communication challenge, not an HR one. Drawing on lived experience and professional practice, Cindy explains how uncertainty, avoidance, and well-meaning platitudes can isolate grieving colleagues when they return to work.

The conversation explores grief literacy, consent and clarity in communication, different grief styles, and the small but meaningful actions that create safety and trust. It asks a simple but difficult question for leaders and communicators alike. How do we show up when there is no perfect thing to say?

This episode is essential listening for communication professionals, leaders, and anyone responsible for supporting people through moments that cannot be managed by policy alone.