Before She Let Go: April Simpkins on Love, Loss, and Cheslie Kryst

Listen to this episode from Hot & Bothered on Spotify. In this deeply moving and courageous episode, we sit down with April Simpkins—HR executive, mental health advocate, and mother of the late Cheslie Kryst—to discuss her personal journey through unimaginable loss. April opens up about the heartbreaking death of her daughter, the complexities of grief, and the long, winding road toward acceptance. With unflinching honesty, she shares how she’s navigated moments of darkness, public scrutiny, and private pain, all while finding a new sense of purpose in advocating for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Together, we talk about the importance of addressing mental health struggles in high-achieving individuals, the stigma that often silences those who are suffering, and the steps we can all take to support ourselves and the people we love. April’s story is one of heartbreak—but also of hope, healing, and fierce advocacy. This is a conversation about loss, but also about love—the kind that keeps going, even when someone is gone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices