In this episode of Welcome to Your B-Side, Dr. Amy Lindsey sits down with John Richards, longtime KEXP DJ, podcaster, bar owner, and mental health advocate, to explore how grief has shaped his life, his show, and his community.
After losing his father, and then his mother, John turned pain into purpose by processing his grief live on air and inviting listeners to do the same. He went on to create The Mom Show, an annual broadcast dedicated to grief and remembrance that became one of KEXP’s most listened-to programs.
The overwhelming response inspired John and his wife, Dr. Amy Lindsey, to expand that mission through Death & Music, a live community event where artists and audiences come together to explore loss, love, and healing through the lens of music.
What began as a personal act of vulnerability has grown into an ongoing invitation for others to grieve, remember, and find meaning in shared experience. Together, Amy and John discuss what it means to grieve openly, how music becomes a language of loss and love, and why community is essential for healing.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How vulnerability and storytelling can transform grief into collective healing
The origins of The Mom Show and its evolution
Why music is one of the most powerful tools for emotional processing
The purpose behind Death and Music and the concept of “The Second Funeral”
How grief often changes our perspective on life, spirituality, and connection
Reminder: Nothing in this podcast is a substitute for medical or professional advice. Always consult your own doctor.
KEY MOMENTS:
ABOUT JOHN RICHARDS:
John Richards is a Seattle-based KEXP Morning Show host, DJ, podcaster, and mental health advocate who has spent decades building community through music and storytelling. His work, including The Mom Show and Death & Music, has inspired listeners around the world to process grief, connect through music, and find comfort in community.
Beyond radio, John co-owns Life on Mars—a vinyl and plant-based bar in Seattle—and runs a record club that celebrates the artistry of music and the connections it creates. Through his work on air, on stage, and in the community, John continues to remind listeners everywhere that they are not alone.
CONNECT WITH JOHN:
Stay in touch with John Richards and explore more of his work:
RESOURCES:
Free B-Side Community on Skool
STAY CONNECTED:
SUPPORT WELCOME TO YOUR B-SIDE:
If this episode moved you, subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Share this episode with someone who is grieving.