Yiyun Li: ‘The Wound That Won’t Heal’

Yiyun Li: ‘The Wound That Won’t Heal’

From All There Is with Anderson Cooper by CNN Podcasts

January 23, 2026 · 38 min

About this episode

Yiyun Li discusses her profound pain after losing her children to suicide and her unique perspective on grief.

Author Yiyun Li lost both of her children to suicide. Vincent at 16. James at 19. She talks with Anderson about why she doesn't use the words "grief" or "process," instead describing her pain as "an abyss," and a "wound that won't heal." Host: Anderson Cooper Showrunner: Haley Thomas Producers: Chuck Hadad, Grace Walker, Emily Williams Associate Producer: Kyra Dahring Video Editor: Eric Zembrzuski Technical Director: Dan Dzula Bookers: Kerry Rubin and Kari Pricher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Anderson Cooper

Guest: Yiyun Li

Topics covered

  • grief
  • loss
  • suicide
  • mental health
  • parenting
  • pain

Keywords

  • Yiyun Li
  • suicide
  • grief
  • loss
  • mental health
  • pain
  • parenting

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CNN Podcasts

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