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Episode Notes

Grief can feel isolating, but what if there was a way to feel supported even in your hardest moments? Emma Payne, the founder of Help Texts, has turned her own loss into a mission to humanize mental health care. In this episode, Emma and host Adam Zuckerman dive into how personalized grief support delivered via text messages is transforming the way we heal. From the science of grief to practical tools for support, this conversation is full of insights to help you or someone you love through loss.

Key Takeaways

• Why being “broken open” in grief creates unique opportunities for healing.

• How personalized text messages can deliver meaningful support during loss.
• The importance of continuing bonds and honoring loved ones after they’re gone.
• Simple ways to support someone grieving, even if you don’t know what to say.
• The innovative ways Help Texts is using technology to change mental health care.

Show Links

• Emma’s Website: Click here
• Emma’s Instagram: Click here

About Emma Payne

Emma Payne is an accomplished technology entrepreneur, MIT graduate, and award-winning change agent with over 25 years of experience leading innovative online and mobile initiatives. A pioneer in digital engagement, Emma began building online communities before the advent of Netscape, and her career has since been defined by creating transformative tools and networks that empower and support individuals.

Emma’s achievements include developing platforms to register young people to vote, building online support networks for families navigating health challenges, and launching North America’s first online crisis intervention line. She also founded and led a bold, action-oriented national nonprofit focused on women and technology, breaking boundaries and cultivating leaders for an impressive 17 years.

In 2018, Emma founded Help Texts, combining her passion for mobile technology with her commitment to ensuring everyone has access to support during life’s toughest moments. Under her leadership, Help Texts became the first organization to publish data on grief-informed texting. Today, the platform delivers vital support in 44 countries and 24 languages, revolutionizing how people receive care and connection through mobile technology.

Emma’s visionary approach, blending innovation with empathy, has made her a trailblazer in technology-driven solutions for personal and societal challenges. Through her work, she continues to redefine what’s possible in leveraging technology for human connection and support.