What happens when your mother dies… and in the middle of your grief, you discover a secret that completely rewrites who you are? 💔
In this episode of Grief 2 Growth, Brian talks with award-winning audio creator and debut author Rich Boerner, whose life was turned upside down after his mother’s death. While cleaning out her tiny New York apartment, Rich uncovered letters and clues that revealed the truth about his father—and shattered the story he’d always believed about himself.
Instead of staying stuck in betrayal and anger, Rich chose a path of healing, forgiveness, and even humor. In this powerful conversation, we explore how identity, grief, and long-buried family secrets can collide…and how we can still find a way forward.
If you’ve ever:
Felt “different” or “less than” because your family didn’t look like everyone else’s
Discovered a painful family secret
Struggled with forgiveness for a parent or yourself
Wondered how to turn grief into growth
…this episode is for you. 🌱
🎧 In this episode, we talk about:
Growing up as an “only child” with a single mom in the 1970s
The shock of losing his mom after she beat ovarian cancer
The moment Rich discovered who his father really was
How connecting with his half-sister changed everything
Turning anger and confusion into compassion and understanding
Why telling his story became an act of healing—for himself and his kids
How life keeps “nudging” us with opportunities to grow, even when we resist
📖 About Rich’s book
Rich’s debut memoir, The Not So Only Child: My True Story, brings together love, loss, identity, and long-hidden truths. It’s honest, funny, and deeply human—perfect for anyone navigating complicated family stories or grief.
📚 Get Rich’s book here:
👉 [Amazon / Audible / Kindle link]
🔗 Connect with Rich:
Website: [Rich’s site]
Instagram: [@handle]
Podcast / Audio work: [link]
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You don’t have to navigate grief—or identity-shattering revelations—alone. There is meaning, connection, and even joy available on the other side. 🌈
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00:00 ⏳ Introduction — Setting the Stage
Brian introduces today’s guest, Rich Boerner, whose life story unfolds with grief, identity, and unexpected discovery.
01:42 👶 Growing Up “Different” — Childhood Without a Father
Rich shares what it was like being raised by a single mother in the 1970s and how that shaped his identity.
05:18 💔 Losing His Mom After She Beat Cancer
The emotional story of Rich’s mother overcoming ovarian cancer—only to pass suddenly after a fall.
08:57 📂 The Apartment Search — Discovering the First Clues
While sorting through his mother’s belongings, Rich finds letters and papers that don’t add up.
12:40 🧬 The Shocking Discovery — Who Was His Father?
Rich explains the moment he realized the man he believed was his father… wasn’t.
16:21 😡 Betrayal, Anger & Healing Begins
How Rich navigated the mix of rage, grief, and confusion that followed the revelation.
20:05 👭 Meeting His Half-Sister for the First Time
A powerful encounter that brought clarity and connection—and changed everything.
25:14 🪞 Redefining Identity — “Who Am I Now?”
Rich explores how the revelation forced him to rebuild his understanding of himself.
30:32 😂 Humor as Healing — Finding Light in the Dark
Even in chaos, Rich finds moments of humor that help him move forward.
34:50 ✍️ Why He Wrote The Not So Only Child
Rich shares the deeper purpose behind writing his memoir and how the story expands beyond DNA.
39:16 🌱 Turning Grief Into Growth
What Rich learned about forgiveness, compassion, and being present for his children.
44:03 🔮 Life’s Nudges — How the Universe Guides Us
Rich reflects on the “coincidences” and synchronicities that pushed him toward the truth.
48:55 🎧 Final Reflections & Where to Learn More
Brian and Rich close with thoughts on healing, family, and choosing love over resentment.
