Widow 180 The Podcast with Jen Zwinck: Recent Episodes
Jen Zwinck
When you become a widow, the heartache can be overwhelming. You feel lost. You feel broken. You feel alone. And you find yourself trying to pick up the pieces of your life and function. But I believe that every widow has the capacity to endure, that every widow has the power to overcome and the determination to create a new life filled with meaning and purpose. The Widow 180 Podcast is about turning tragedy, loss and fear into strength and creativity and a new passion for life. It's about self-reflection and realizing that we only have this one precious life to live and that a new life and a new you is achievable. Each week I will be interviewing widows, incredible survivors of loss. These women have taken the lessons they've learned and the insights they've gained and used them to grow and transform themselves. Some have started businesses, went back to school, run marathons, lost 100 pounds, and moved across the world! They made a choice not to be held down. How did they do it? How did they get through their grief? What's their secret? What lessons can we learn from them that will transform our own lives? How can we write our own story because our story isn't over yet? How can we begin our Chapter 2? I hope that you are as inspired by these women as I am. And maybe hearing even just one story will be life-changing for you.
Gia was 19 when she met Jonas and she loved him almost from the start, even though fate took a few tries to bring them together. What followed was a whirlwind life: a blended family, two kids ten years apart, constant moves, and a marriage built on Jonas's fearless, say-yes-to-everything spirit. His biggest dream was returning to his native Tanzania to build a business, and after the pandemic hit, he finally got his shot — opening a boutique hotel and tour company he poured his heart into.
Then, in April 2024, everything changed. Gia describes the surreal morning she couldn't reach him, the strange phone call from their housekeeper delivering the impossible news, and the disorienting hours that followed as she tried to get answers from thousands of miles away.
She opens up about:
~the altercation that took Jonas's life
~the confusion and misinformation that clouded the early days
~leaning on her widow community during the darkest moments
~carrying a business she never intended to run
~starting Seasons Of Life Celebrations to honor life-changing moments
~the excruciating wait for legal answers that, over two years later, still aren't fully resolved
~finding her footing again while still living inside the unknown
In this deeply honest conversation, Gia shares what it's like to grieve not just a husband, but the future they'd planned together — the "empty nest" chapter she never got to have.
This is a story about love, sudden loss, resilience, and the long, uneven road toward healing.
Find Gia at www.SeasonsOfLifeCelebrations.com.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What do you do with the clothes still hanging in his closet?
The shoes that seem to multiply the moment you try to pack them away?!
In this raw, unfiltered Widow 180 roundtable, four guests — three widows and a widower — open up about one of the hardest, least-talked-about parts of loss: deciding what to do with a spouse's belongings.
Lindsay Lawrence, Sarah Fox, Lakisha Lefever, and psychologist Stephen Taylor share their timelines, triggers, and hard-won strategies — from turning t-shirts into memory bears, to donating shoes to strangers in need, to the surprising guilt that can surface over something as small as a comforter or an empty cologne bottle.
They talk honestly about outside pressure and unsolicited opinions from family. As Lindsay puts it: "Until you are walking in my shoes, I really don't need to hear your opinion anymore."
And Stephen offers a piece of wisdom that reframes the whole conversation: "If you don't do something with your grief, your grief is gonna do something to you."
This episode also covers the power of pre-loss conversations, the "widow brain" phenomenon, navigating family traditions around belongings, and two simple questions to help guide any decision:
Will I ever actually use this? and
Where is the right place for it to go?
Whether your loss was sudden or came after years of illness, this conversation offers permission to move at your own pace — because when it comes to grief, there's no right way. There's just your way.
For more support and guidance in widowhood, check out the Widow 180 Workbook series at www.widow180.com/workbooks
What stage of widowhood are you in right now? Not sure? Click here to get the specific help you need for where you are right now on this journey. Go to www.widow180.com/stages
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What happens when widow brain and ADHD collide?
In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Dall — grief-informed neurodivergence specialist, founder of Curveball Press, and widow of four-plus years — to unpack how grief and neurodivergence amplify each other in ways almost no one talks about.
Jennifer opens up about losing her husband to suicide, navigating grief alongside her adult daughter, and the messy, ongoing work of sorting through his belongings (tools, fishing gear, and all).
We dig into decision fatigue, executive dysfunction, and why "widow fog" hits differently when you're also managing ADHD — plus practical, compassionate strategies for getting through the hardest days, releasing guilt, and rebuilding an identity that's been completely upended.
If you're in the thick of grief and wondering whether you'll ever feel capable again, this conversation is a reminder: you will. One day, one wave, one Netflix episode at a time!
In this episode:
- Grief triggers, "random Tuesdays," and anticipating hard anniversaries
- Widow brain vs. ADHD — how they compound each other
- Practical tools for decision fatigue and overwhelm
- Releasing guilt around big life decisions
- Rebuilding identity after loss
- What "mini survival mode" looks like — and how to get through it again
Connect with Jennifer: adhdholistically.com
There are 5 stages of healing in widowhood. Not sure which one you're in? Go to www.widow180.com/stages to find out. Get a curated list of resources you need to start healing today!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
If you're listening to this at 2am because grief won't let you sleep, or three years out wondering why you still don't feel like yourself — this episode is for you!
Forget the 5 stages of grief you've heard about a hundred times.
In this episode, we are breaking down the 5 stages of healing in widowhood — a framework built specifically for what it actually looks like to lose your spouse and rebuild a life afterward:
- In the Thick of It — raw, early grief and survival mode
- Finding Your Footing — small wins and the guilt of feeling capable again
- Searching for Yourself — the identity work of figuring out who you are now
- Stepping into Chapter Two — building a new life on purpose, joy and grief coexisting
- Thriving and Paying It Forward — a new relationship with your loss, and helping others through theirs
These stages aren't a ladder you climb in order, rather, you can move back and forth between them, sometimes in the same week. We walk through what each stage actually feels like, what it looks like from the outside, and exactly what you need in each one.
Whether you're in the fog of week one or years into rebuilding, this episode will help you understand exactly where you are and know that where you're headed is real.
FIND YOUR STAGE: Head to https://www.widow180.com/stages to find your stage and get a personalized list of resources to support you right where you are!
For all Widow 180 Workbooks in the series, go to https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Julie Wright Halbert was a national education attorney, married 22 years, when her husband Jim started losing weight and running a fever — symptoms doctors first mistook for an infection.
Three weeks later, he was gone.
In this raw, wide-ranging conversation, Julie shares what it's really like to lose a spouse to a fast-moving, hard-to-diagnose cancer (later identified as cholangiocarcinoma), how she held two teenage sons together while barely holding herself together, and the winding path — through grief therapy, a chance encounter with a life coach in Colorado, a medium session that left her laughing and crying, and healing retreats in Sedona — that led her to become a transformational soul coach, death doula, and author of the forthcoming book Live and Die Awake (releasing November 4, 2026).
This episode isn't just about how Jim died — it's about how Julie learned to live.
In this episode, we chat about:
- The frightening weeks between Jim's first symptoms and his cholangiocarcinoma diagnosis at MD Anderson
- The "angel medevac" flight that got the family home to say goodbye
- Going back to work as an attorney while still in early, acute grief
- The synchronicities — a stranger's conversation, a medium's prediction — that led her to coaching
- How her book Live and Die Awake came together, chapter by chapter, as a healing tool for any kind of loss
- What she looks for first when guiding a new grief client through an identity shift
- Her thoughts on group retreats, Sedona's "vortex energy," and communal healing
Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro
00:23 – Jim's first symptoms and the early misdiagnosis
03:30 – The diagnosis: cholangiocarcinoma at MD Anderson
06:07 – The angel medevac flight home
06:43 – Jim passes away, December 6, 2018
07:23 – The raw grief of losing someone in three weeks
11:15 – Returning to work as an attorney while grieving
20:12 – The Colorado synchronicity that led to her life coach
24:20 – How her book Live and Die Awake began taking shape
27:03 – Connecting with medium Tina Powers
34:45 – Founding Rising Phoenix Life coaching
37:03 – Guiding clients through identity shifts after loss
40:27 – Is there a "too soon" for grief transformation?
44:45 – Sedona retreats and communal healing
59:16 – Where to find Julie + closing thoughts
Connect with Julie Wright Halbert:
🌐 Website: risingphoenix.life
📖 Substack: Living and Dying Awake
💼 LinkedIn: Julie Wright Halbert
📧 Email: julie@risingphoenix.life
📚 Book: Live and Die Awake — releasing November 4, 2026
What stage are you on this widow journey? Not sure? Find out at https://www.widow180.com/stages and get the tailored grief support you need.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Losing a spouse doesn't just take your partner - it can take your identity, too. In this deeply honest post-interview chat, guest Priya opens up about what it really means to rebuild your life as a widowed mom: the loneliness of making every decision alone, the guilt of not being the same parent you used to be, and the quiet grief of watching your kids adjust to a version of you that's stretched between every role as mom, dad, caregiver, provider.
Priya shares how her work and her children became her anchors when everything else felt uncertain, why surrounding yourself with positive people is non-negotiable after loss, and the moment her own daughter told her therapist that losing her mom's old self was harder than losing her dad. It's a raw look at self-doubt, resilience, and learning to trust yourself again when the person you used to lean on is gone.
If you're a widow struggling with identity loss, solo parenting, or rebuilding confidence after the death of a spouse, this episode will remind you that you're not alone — and that you already know how to make the right decisions for your family.
In this episode:
- Why losing a spouse means losing your built-in "sounding board"
- How grief changes your identity as a parent
- Learning to trust your own decisions again
- Why your social circle often shifts after loss and why that's okay!
- What kids really feel when a widowed parent changes
Where are you on this widow journey? Not sure? We have identified 5 common stages of healing, from the thick of early grief to truly thriving again. Wherever you are, there's a name for it, and there are other widows who've been exactly there too. Find your stage and get personalized grief support that meets you exactly where you are at https://www.widow180.com/stages
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
In this deeply moving episode of Widow 180: The Podcast, occupational therapist, author, and widow Rondalyn Whitney shares the raw story of losing her husband Bill in a sudden car accident during the COVID-19 pandemic.
She opens up about how she rebuilt her life from "Day Zero" forward. Drawing on her background in narrative medicine and occupational therapy, Rondalyn offers widows practical, evidence-based tools for navigating grief: from journaling techniques backed by research, to reframing mourning as an "occupation" requiring structure, habits, and routines, to finding the courage to rebuild identity after loss.
She opens up about:
~parenting a grieving teenager
~the power of small rituals
~how she learned to "be her own Bill" and be her own cheerleader
~how she found the courage to step out and do things on her own, like dining out
Whether you're newly widowed or years into your grief journey, this conversation offers both permission to feel and concrete steps toward healing.
Connect with Rondalyn Whitney at RondalynWhitney.com
She's also on LinkedIn, Facebook, or find her published books and articles on her Amazon author page.
Join the Widow 180 community for the 60 Days of Summer Healing Quest on YouTube (a video series for widows and widowers) and get your FREE progress tracker here: https://widow180.kit.com/healingquest
Find the newest Widow 180 workbook, the Who Am I Now? Workbook at https://widow180.kit.com/whoaminow
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
I want to offer you some words of encouragement on this Father's Day weekend.
Maybe this is your first Father's Day without your spouse. Or maybe it's the second, or the fifth, and it still feels just as painful as the first.
Whether you choose to celebrate this weekend in some way or you choose to ignore it completely, it's okay. Both decisions are the right decisions if it feels right to you.
Getting through holidays like this one are tough. But you're here and you're doing it. And you're doing so much better than you think!
If you need more support and encouragement this summer, I encourage you to check out the 60 Days of summer Healing Quest! 60 days of short, inspiring YouTube videos to get you through this summer. Go to https://widow180.kit.com/healingquest
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"When should I take off my wedding ring?"
Most widows face this question at some point after loss.
In this second roundtable discussion episode of Widow 180, three widows—Melissa, Tracy, and Danette—join the conversation to discuss the deeply personal decision of taking off a wedding ring after loss.
They each share their unique experiences: from moving their rings to different hands, repurposing them into new jewelry, keeping them as special keepsakes for family, to deciding when and how to take this significant step.
The discussion delves into feelings of guilt, societal expectations, handling others’ opinions, and the importance of doing what feels right for each individual.
Whether you’re wrestling with this decision yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers comfort, understanding, and practical ideas for navigating the path forward!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"Choosing joy and seeking it has made my life truly joyful again... there's still so much life to live." ~Tiffany Rampey
In this inspiring episode of Widow 180: The Podcast, fellow widow and world traveler, Tiffany Rampey joins us to explore how loss can become the catalyst for adventure, healing, and hope!
Tiffany shares her extraordinary journey through early widowhood, from the sudden loss of her husband in 2020 to packing up her two young children for an epic seven-month, nine-country adventure around the globe.
We discuss:
~ the therapeutic power of travel
~the importance of community
~ how Tiffany’s “Widows in the Wild” group is helping women rediscover joy and camaraderie through group adventures!
~dating as a widowed mom!
~her expertise in using points and miles to make travel affordable and accessible for everyone, including practical tips for widows navigating credit card points after the loss of a spouse.
Whether you’re new in grief or looking for inspiration to rewrite your next chapter, and explore the world, this episode is filled with honest reflection, actionable advice, and hope for what’s possible on the other side of pain.
Connect with Tiffany Rampey:
- Instagram: @rebuildingjoy
- YouTube: Rebuilding Joy Travel
- Website and Courses: Rebuilding Joy Travel
To join the 60 Dyas Of Summer Healing Quest, click HERE: https://widow180.kit.com/healingquest
Tune in and let Tiffany’s story remind you: travel and joy are still possible, even after unimaginable loss.
To join our Widow 180 Roundtable Discussions click HERE: https://www.widow180.com/newsletter
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"I've seen death in the face numerous times. I. I am going to do something going forward that is going to help people in a big way. And so I am. I am. I'm doing it." ~Ksenia Merck
Ksenia Merck joins the show to share her powerful story of love, loss, caregiving, creativity, and renewal. After caring for her elderly mother until her passing and then losing her beloved husband Bill to cancer, Ksenia Merck found herself navigating profound compound grief and the search for healing. Through her journey, she discovered the transformative power of creativity and art.
Listeners will be deeply moved by Ksenia Merck's reflections on “re-lifing” herself. She shares her experience of illustrating and publishing Bill’s unfinished novel "Ghost Flower," and her ongoing mission to build community and help others on the widowhood journey. This episode is full of wisdom, hope, and encouragement for anyone grieving or seeking new purpose after loss.
Key takeaways:
- The traumatic experience of Bill’s sudden illness, ICU stays, and the couple’s recognition of shared PTSD
- The inspiration and healing that came from illustrating and publishing "Ghost Flower," Bill’s final unfinished manuscript
- Finding comfort and connection through creativity, especially in times of grief
- The significance of honoring one’s own grief timeline and resisting outside pressure to “move on”
- Recognizing and appreciating signs from loved ones after their passing, especially through nature
- Trust yourself and your intuition to make the choices that feel right for you on your widowhood journey! You know what's best for YOU!
You can find Ksenia and her book Ghost Flower at https://www.merckiipress.com/ksenia-merck
Struggling with an identity crisis? Many widows find themselves wondering "Who Am I Now?" Get the latest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook series, The Who Am I Now? Workbook at www.widow180.com/whoaminow
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
“Behind every heroic firefighter, there is a man that has many, many different lives that we should be honoring also.” – Eileen Bellew, FDNY widow
We welcome Eileen Bellew, author of After John Jumped, for a deeply moving conversation about surviving profound loss, mothering through grief, and finding hope after tragedy.
Eileen recounts the heartbreaking events of January 23, 2005, known as Black Sunday, when her husband John, a dedicated FDNY firefighter, lost his life in the line of duty. She shares the agonizing hours of uncertainty, the moment she said goodbye, and the challenges of facing unimaginable PTSD with four young children.
Navigating grief in the public eye, Eileen describes trying to protect her children’s innocence amidst intense media scrutiny, endless ceremonies, and the ongoing pain of public memorials.
She discusses the multi-layered aspects of widowhood—how it altered her very identity, changed her approach to motherhood, and left her grappling with PTSD, anxiety, and the daunting question: “How do I rebuild?”
Key takeaways from this episode:
- There is no right way to handle tragedy or grief—every decision is raw and personal.
- Support often means simply sitting in the muck with someone, rather than trying to “fix” their pain.
- The loss of a spouse can mean losing parts of yourself, but over time healing and resilience do grow—even if it takes years.
- Remarriage is not a replacement but a new chapter. You can love again while holding your lost loved one close.
- Eileen's journey is also chronicled in her memoir, which began as a legacy for her kids and grew into a beacon for others facing similar paths.
Learn more about Eileen Bellew, her book, After John Jumped, and the upcoming Black Sunday movie at eileenbellew.com.
Get the "Who Am I Now?" Workbook to rediscover yourself after loss. Download it today at https://www.widow180.com/whoaminow
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Who am I now?”?
Today we dive deep into the concept of "identity lag"—the uncomfortable, confusing gap between who you were before losing your partner and who you are becoming.
Join us for these relatable stories and practical tips about why simple questions like “What do you want?” suddenly feel impossible to answer!
Unpack how grief isn’t just about missing your spouse—it’s also about missing a part of yourself.
You’ll learn:
- What "identity lag" is and why it happens after loss
- How intertwined relationships shape our sense of self
- Real-life examples of how identity lag shows up in everyday decisions
- Three actionable steps to begin closing the gap and rediscovering yourself
If you’re feeling lost, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken!
Tune in for encouragement, empathy, and tools for moving forward in your healing journey.
Don’t forget to check out the newest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook Series, the guided workbook, The “Who Am I Now?” Workbook. It's designed for widows and widowers navigating identity after loss.
Go to https://www.widow180.com/whoaminow
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Jen Newberg shares her journey through heart-wrenching loss, unexpected chaos abroad, and the path to healing through connection.
After a blended family, second marriage, and overcoming personal struggles, Jen tragically lost her husband Jack while on a dream vacation in Greece. Grappling with grief, solo-parenting, and the shock of sudden loss far from home, she reveals the raw, real experiences that shaped her into the support beacon she is today.
Listeners will hear how Jen began to rebuild her life—leaning into her recovery community, seeking out connection, and ultimately founding "It's Lifey," a dynamic project focused on retreats and support for widows.
She also shares about:
~ insights on loneliness
~the rollercoaster of grief
~the hard-won lessons of solo parenting.
This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the necessity of asking for help, and the unexpected ways life after loss can add depth and meaning.
Key Themes & Takeaways
- Life-changing Loss Far From Home: Jen recounts losing her husband to a heart attack while abroad, grappling with unique logistical and emotional challenges.
- Navigating Early Grief: The need for a strong, supportive network and the experience of profound loneliness and chaos.
- Solo Parenting & Major Milestones: The challenges of managing teenage milestones, college planning, and household responsibilities alone.
- The Importance of Community: How connection—through recovery groups, family, and new friendships—eased the burden of grief.
- Launching "It's Lifey" and Hope Hub: Creating retreats, local events, and online spaces specifically for widows craving support, wellness, and community.
- Learning to Ask for Help: Why seeking support is a strength, not a weakness, and practical strategies for reaching out.
- Personal Growth Through Widowhood: Tools for coping with loneliness, setting boundaries, and rediscovering joy after loss.
- Inspiration for Moving Forward: Proof that healing isn’t linear, but transformation and happiness are possible—even after devastating loss.
Learn more about upcoming retreats and resources at www.itslifey.com.
Check out the Widow 180 Workbooks at https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Join the thousands of other who hear from us every week in our newsletter: https://www.widow180.com/newsletter
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Leslie Harter Berg's entire world changed in a single instant. At just 30 years old, she became a widow with two grieving toddlers.
In today's episode, Leslie shares the raw, unfiltered story of sudden loss, early widowhood, and the messy, beautiful journey of rebuilding a life.
She opens up about:
~the surreal experience of Ryan's aneurysm and stroke
~navigating solo parenthood while drowning in grief
~how denial actually helped her survive those brutal first months.
~her solo trip to New Zealand with her two toddlers
~her shifting identity as a mother and as a woman
~grieving the version of yourself that only existed with your person
~the insecurity that nobody warns you about after loss
~why the second year of widowhood can feel lonelier than the first
~how she met and married her now husband Saul
~the complexity of blending families while honoring her boys' late father
~the birth of her third son — a baby she calls "the glue of the family."!
Leslie is also the founder of Vids for Wids, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing widow stories through video. She is also the author of her new memoir You're So Strong — a title that perfectly captures the complicated, funny, and exhausting expectations placed on grieving people!
If you've ever been told you're so strong when what you really needed was someone to just say, this is awful — this episode is for you!
Find more widow support in the Widow 180 Workbook Series at https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Why do friends and family stop calling, texting, or checking in after you've lost your spouse?
While every grief journey is unique, so many widows and widowers experience the pain of disappearing support just a few months after their loss. What starts as an outpouring of sympathy, calls, texts, and casseroles too often fades into quiet and isolation. This period of time, known as “the grief desert,” is a time when the world moves on, but you are left still coping with immense loss.
In this episode we talk about 3 practical and compassionate pieces of advice:
- Permission to Reach Out: It’s perfectly okay to make the first move! Grief often tricks us into thinking we’re a burden, but being specific about your needs can open doors and invite support back in!
- Find Your People: Seek out others who understand your experience, like the Widow 180 Facebook group!
- Create Small Rituals & Routines: Small routines can help anchor you when everything else feels uncertain.
Even though the quiet is overwhelming, you are not forgotten!
Whether you’re new to the Widow 180 community or have been on this journey for a while, this episode is a compassionate, real-world guide to navigating the loneliness of grief when outside support grows scarce.
Share this episode with someone who needs reassurance that they are not alone and that brighter days—though different—are still ahead!
Get the Widow 180 Workbook, Overcoming Loneliness, here: https://www.widow180.com/loneliness
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"Don’t give up. Allow yourself to breathe, laugh, and dream again. Healing is possible, and you are not alone." ~Mary Henderson
Mary Henderson sits down with us this week for an honest, heartfelt conversation about love, loss, and rebuilding life after unimaginable grief. She shares the traumatic story of losing her husband during the COVID pandemic, the raw challenges of navigating grief, and the struggle to rediscover her self-worth and identity.
Mary opens up about:
~ moving through anger and numbness, and still leaning on faith
~journaling to find her identity after wondering "Who am I now?"
~having an amazing therapist to guide her through grief
~daring to dream again!
~ building a house in Honduras
~starting a blog called "Dream Big, Girl" to encourage women
~writing faith-filled romance novels that always have a happy ending!
If you are in the early stages of grief or feeling lost, you’ll find inspiration, practical advice, and a message of hope here. Mary Henderson offers encouragement to take your “stone” from the floodwaters of pain and carry it to healing—reminding listeners that joy and purpose can be found again, and you are never truly alone.
You can reach Mary at www.maryhendersonauthor.com
Her blog is "Dream Big, Girl"
Widow 180 Resources and all Widow 180 Workbooks can be found at www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Welcome to this first ever Widow 180 roundtable discussion! We are bringing together an inspiring group of guests to explore the deeply personal process of rebuilding life after loss. Pam (4 years widowed), Becky (4 years widowed) and MaryBeth (14 years widowed), all bravely come forward today to share their unique stories of grief, resilience, rediscovering joy, and picking up the pieces of their shattered lives.
The conversation covers:
- The overwhelming early days of widowhood and shifting from survival mode to finding purpose
- Moments that signaled the start of healing and concrete steps taken towards rebuilding
- The challenge of moving from "we" to "me" and discovering identity apart from marriage
- Creating new traditions, making bold life changes, and the power of community
- The importance of patience, courage, daily gratitude, and grace on the journey forward!
You will hear honest accounts of building new lives, facing uncertainty with bravery, honoring loved ones, and finding hope after heartbreak.
If you’re new to widowhood or feeling stuck in the messy middle of grief, this episode offers comfort, validation, and tangible tools for taking the next step!
Resources and groups mentioned in this episode:
- Check out Pam's group at www.widowswhowine.com
- Louisville Widow and Widowers Meetup (meetup.com)
- Pam's Book: Where's the Key to the Safe?
Remember - You’re not alone—listen in for wisdom, laughter, and solidarity on the road to rebuilding after loss.
Check out the Widow 180 Workbook Series at https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Get ready for an episode that’s as heartwarming as it is inspiring! In this week’s Widow 180 episode, I sit down with widow, author, and death doula Jackie Disch. Jackie takes us on a deeply personal journey through the loss of her beloved wife, Katie, during the pandemic.
You’ll hear Jackie open up about:
- becoming a caregiver in the isolating days of lockdown
- navigating the practical “business side” of grief and the agony of probate!
- learning how to honor both her pain and her partner's memory, by creating the time and space to grieve, like a 10 day writing retreat!
- how studying as a death midwife prepared her (in surprising ways!) for their final days together.
- why she’s a lifelong advocate for therapy
- how she wrote the book In Losing Katie: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Living Grief.
- how little steps—like the simple act of moving a dirty dish to the sink—can help you slowly find your way forward after loss.
Plus, Jackie talks about the power of intention, the signs she believes showed her a new path, and the courage it took to start anew in a place she and Katie once dreamed of retiring.
If you’re navigating grief, wondering what “moving forward” looks like, or just want to hear a beautiful story about love and resilience, this episode is for you!
Tune in for validation, hope, and a reminder that you’re not alone—grief changes us, but it also makes room for strength we never knew we had.
Find Jackie’s book and connect with her at https://www.jackieldisch.com.
Find all of the Widow 180 Workbooks for help with loneliness, confidence, purpose, guilt, new grief, and much more! Go to www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Have you found yourself wondering, "Am I doing this right?" or "Is what I feel normal?" after losing your spouse? You're not alone — and this episode is for you.
Grief after losing a husband or wife is unlike almost any other loss. The silence in the house. The missing half of every plan. The strange, disorienting feeling of moving through the world as "I" when you were "we" for so long.
It's exhausting, confusing, and deeply isolating — and so many widows and widowers are quietly asking the same question: Am I going to be okay?
In this episode, we answer that question — not with empty reassurance, but with 5 real, honest signs that you are healing, even on the days it doesn't feel like it.
In this episode, you'll hear:
- Why showing up — even in the smallest ways — is an act of extraordinary strength
- How grief feels less consuming over time - and that's a sign of healing
- Reaching out to others is a sign of healing
- Why imagining even a small future is more powerful than you think
- And why everything you're feeling right now makes complete sense
Whether you lost your spouse recently or years ago, whether you're having a hard week or just need someone to remind you that you're not broken — this episode will meet you exactly where you are!
Friend, you are going to be okay!
Get the Widow 180 workbook series: https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Tammy and Bob Cranston join us on the podcast and open up about the tragedies that changed their lives—& the unexpected journey that brought them together!
This episode is packed with wisdom on intentional grieving, goal-setting, and moving forward at your own pace—whether that means finding love again, creating new adventures, or embracing purpose in unexpected ways.
Highlights include:
- Their individual journeys through spousal loss and support systems
- Meeting in a bereavement group and the importance of intentional healing
- The pivotal role of goal-setting and adventure (like biking all 50 states!)
- Navigating family relationships and the realities of blended families
- Their passion for helping others on the grief journey through writing, volunteering, and education
Check out their website for more resources, blog posts, and information about their books—including The Blank Journal and Tammy’s award-winning children’s series on loss
Visit: www.tammycranston.com
To be a guest and join one of our roundtable podcast episodes, email me at jen@widow180.com
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Join me as we sit down with the incredible Elle Davis—a mother, widow, professor, writer, and TEDx speaker! Elle bravely shares her deeply personal journey of the sudden loss of her husband Paul and the raw aftermath that followed as she navigated single motherhood with a toddler.
Together Elle and I dive into the realities of widowhood:
~coping with overwhelming grief and parenting challenges
~finding support in friends and family
~grappling with identity after loss
~ seeking therapy for healing
~ difficult conversations with children about grief
~ struggles with guilt and societal expectations.
Elle also introduces her inspiring framework, "The Art of the Bounce Back," sharing how journaling, therapy, and building small routines helped her cultivate resilience and gradually rebuild a life she loves. This episode explores themes of choosing to move forward, the importance of community, the complexities of grief triggers, and the power of living fully, even when the future feels uncertain.
If you're looking for honest wisdom, compassionate storytelling, and tangible hope for life after loss, this conversation will lift and encourage you!
Don’t forget your pen and paper—you’ll want to take notes on resilience, healing, and the art of bouncing back.
You can find Elle on her website at https://www.elledavisspeaks.com
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
A heartfelt and encouraging message this week for anyone navigating widowhood! Drawing inspiration from the concept of "micro-dosing discomfort," this episode explores how small, courageous choices can make a big impact over time.
The biggest takeaway: that healing and growth don’t require giant leaps, but rather gentle, manageable steps that build confidence and resilience.
Listeners are invited to reflect on their own journey, identifying one tiny brave step they can take this week. Whether it’s sending a text, accepting a coffee invitation, or simply walking into a room you’ve been avoiding, every action counts and adds up to meaningful progress!
If you’re looking for motivation to move forward, this episode is packed with wisdom and support for the path ahead.
And if you need more support for building confidence after loss, check out the Boost Your Confidence Level After Loss Workbook at www.widow180.com/confidence
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Ready to dip your toes—or maybe just test the water—when it comes to dating after loss? Get ready for a heartfelt crash course in venturing back into the dating world as a widow!
This solo episode is filled with honest advice& relatable stories as we cover the three essential things every widow should consider before dating:
timing, guilt, and redefining what you want in a new relationship.
You'll hear real questions from listeners like Dan, discover how to navigate the complicated feelings of guilt and loyalty, and get empowered to honor your own timeline—no matter what those around you say. Whether you’re just starting to think about dating again or feeling overwhelmed by all the emotions that come with it, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable tips to help you move forward with confidence and compassion.
Don’t forget to check out the Dating Again After Losing Your Spouse Workbook and a curated list of resources to support you along your journey. Tune in and let Jen remind you: you deserve joy, love, and maybe even some fun along the way!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
To all the men who are questioning whether or not to date a widow, this is for you! And to all the widows who need to remember just how amazing they are - this is for you too!
In terms of relationships and love, dating a widow just might be the best decision you'll ever make!
Widows and widowers, not sure if you're ready to date? Take this QUIZ to find out: https://widow180.kit.com/datingquiz
Watch the "Where Can I Meet A Partner?" Workshop 20 minute VIDEO at https://www.widow180.com/datingworkshop
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
In the final 35 minutes of this heartfelt Widow 180 episode, I continue my deep and honest conversation with Courtney Pray Duke as we explore how to move forward after loss.
Episode Highlights:
- Turning Pain Into Purpose: Courtney Pray Duke shares how her deepest wounds led her to discover her calling, emphasizing:
"The thing that you thought was going to take you out might just be the very thing God uses to bring people all the way through their brokenness and into wholeness and victory." - Insights from Her Book, "And She Got Up":
Courtney unpacks her writing process, the dream that led to the book’s completion, and why sharing hope—especially for widows and those facing grief—is her motivation! - Declarations in the Dark:
Courtney explains the practice of speaking truth and hope over your life during the hardest, rock-bottom moments that we all encounter:
The darkness wants to drown out your life and I was thinking, "You’re going to have to change what you’re declaring—that this is not the end of your life." - Navigating the Messy Middle:
Jen and Courtney discuss the slow, unpredictable shifts in grief and healing:
Courtney encourages listeners not to rush this process! - Life After Loss & Remarriage:
Courtney opens up about remarriage, blending families, and letting herself experience joy again! And the addition of a new baby into the family!
"A man isn’t the goal. A man isn’t going to fix our issues or save the day!"
Listener Takeaways:
- Permission to grieve at your own pace and embrace each small shift toward healing.
- The importance of surrounding yourself with supportive community and allowing yourself to imagine future joy.
- That hope, beauty, and even laughter can re-emerge after the darkest nights.
FREE Workshop for you! The "Where Can I Meet A New Partner?" Workshop, a 20 minute video that just might change your life! Watch it now: https://www.widow180.com/datingworkshop
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Join us today for Part 1 of this heartfelt episode of Widow 180 as I sit down with guest Courtney Pray Duke for an incredibly raw and honest conversation about sudden loss, the journey through early widowhood, and finding faith in the darkest moments.
Episode Highlights:
- Becoming a widow at just 29, Courtney was left to raise their kids alone.
- What the immediate aftermath of loss feels like. How "there's no way to plan for" that moment.
- Facing birthdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas just weeks after Andrew's death. Courtney remembers her friend posting a note that read "just today" as a reminder to survive moment by moment.
- The struggle of parenting through personal heartbreak shines through: “Not only is your heart broken, but it’s broken for your children on a whole other level. And that is probably the worst pain in the world.”
Key Takeaways:
- The trauma of sudden loss creates a world that is both foreign and disorienting—there is no preparation, no handbook, and few words of comfort in those first hours and days.
- Honest conversations about how to talk to children about tragedy, and the unique pain of not being able to protect or fix their heartbreak, are central to the episode.
- Gratitude for the community, even in chaos.
Tune into these first 35 minutes of our interview for a touching, authentic look at grief, faith, and the power of vulnerability during life’s hardest seasons. This episode is filled with wisdom, empathy, and hope for anyone walking through loss or supporting someone who is.
To be a guest on the podcast, email me! jen@widow180.com
Find out about all of our Widow 180 Workbooks at https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Can hope help us heal? Absolutely!
Today's podcast dives deep into the healing power of hope as we approach 2026. We explore what hope really means—believing with confidence that good things are still possible—and why it’s such a vital part of moving forward after loss. There are challenges of holding onto hope while coping with grief, but hope can truly shift your perspective, inspire action, and help you find meaning and purpose in a new chapter of life.
Learn practical ways to make hope a priority, even when it feels out of reach!
Whether you’re newly widowed or further along the path, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that hope can truly help you heal.
Listen in and make 2026 a year of transformation, one hopeful step at a time!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Angela Enloe, a true adventurer at heart, joins us on the podcast today to share her incredible journey through love, loss, and rebuilding her life. Tragedy struck when her husband Dan passed away unexpectedly, leaving Angela to face the unimaginable: grief, uncertainty, and starting over without her life partner or even a home base.
Hear Angela’s wisdom on facing fear, creating a new identity beyond being a widow, and the importance of embracing adventure—even through heartache.
This episode is packed with hope, actionable advice for widows and anyone facing a life-altering loss, and inspiration to step into what’s next—no matter how uncertain it may be. Angela also talks about her blog, “Adventures on Angelique,” and her upcoming book on embracing adventure and overcoming fear.
Key topics covered:
- Choosing an adventurous, yacht-living lifestyle after retirement
- Navigating grief and shock after the sudden loss of a spouse
- Rebuilding life and identity with no home or belongings
- The power of social support, travel, and trying new things
- Practical tips for moving forward while honoring your partner's memory
- Insights on overcoming fear and living life now
Don't miss Angela’s touching stories, breakthrough moments, and practical wisdom for anyone seeking inspiration in tough transitions. Tune in and discover how to keep your adventurous spirit alive—even in the darkest moments.
Read more about Angela’s adventures and healing journey at adventuresonangelique.com.
If this episode resonates with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who’s navigating grief, change, or reinvention.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
I want to thank all of our amazing guests for coming on the podcast this year! Thank you for sharing your stories....the good, the bad, the ugly!
Thank you for your honesty and most of all, thank you for your wisdom that you share with us from your own widowhood experiences.
We learn so much from each other. In today's episode, we have a compilation of several pieces of advice from our guests on the podcast in 2025.
I hope you find these helpful and if something resonates please go back and listen to the full episodes!
Don't forget to grab the FREE INSTANT download of the 10 powerful questions to set your self up for a better year! Go to www.widow180.com/newyear
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
The holidays can feel especially heavy after the loss of a loved one, and in this heartfelt episode, Jen opens up about her own journey through grief during Christmas. She shares honest reflections and personal lessons learned from her first Christmas as a widow—how the holidays transformed from a source of pain to a season of deeper meaning. Whether you’re facing your first holiday without your spouse or are years into your healing, this episode is here to remind you that you’re not alone.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Love Outlasts Loss: how the love for those we've lost doesn't disappear—it deepens and remains a meaningful part of our holiday traditions.
- Light Exists Within Darkness: Grief and the holidays can feel overwhelming, but Jen explains how small acts—like lighting a candle or sharing a laugh—allow light and hope to gently coexist with sorrow.
- Self-Compassion is Essential: Christmas is not a test of strength. Jen encourages giving yourself permission to rest, set boundaries, and embrace new traditions. Treating yourself with kindness opens your heart to compassion for yourself and others.
If you’re navigating grief this holiday season, tune in for comforting insights, practical tips, and the gentle reminder that—despite the pain—the heart of Christmas is still within reach.
Only 3 more days to get the Widow 180 Workbook Series bundle on sale now. Get instant access to all 7 workbooks for one low price only until Christmas! Go to: https://widow180.vipmembervault.com/products/courses/view/1189761/?action=signup
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
This week, I sat down with Haley Haight to share her extraordinary story of love, loss, and rebuilding in the face of unimaginable hardship. Haley opens up about life with her husband Don, the shock of his sudden terminal diagnosis, navigating the world as a young widow with 2 small boys, and the (literal!) wave of challenges that kept coming—from financial uncertainty to being flooded by a natural disaster!
Through it all, Haley has gathered invaluable insights and practical tips every widow or widower should know! Grab a pen and take notes from this one!
We chat about:
- The experience of receiving a terminal diagnosis during COVID-19, becoming a caretaker, and balancing motherhood, work, and grief
- Vital financial steps after a diagnosis—like applying for Social Security Disability, seeking final expense insurance, and securing veterans’ benefits
- The critical importance of gathering passwords, securing death certificates, and understanding the fine print on life insurance and employment transitions
- Haley’s role as a personal representative in a federal whistleblowing case and how a legal settlement became an unexpected financial lifeline
- The impact of losing cherished possessions to a hurricane, rebuilding for her children, and finding strength, support, and perspective through her community and personal self-care
Whether you’re walking a similar path or supporting someone who is, Haley’s insights on resilience, resources, and self-care will leave you inspired and better prepared for life’s hardest moments.
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
If you have been grieving a loss, then you know the intense feeling of isolation that can overcome you.
It can make you feel like nobody else in the world understands what you're going through.
But then you come across a line of poetry, a quote, a heartfelt phrase that captures EXACTLY what you're feeling and it doesn't just change your day, it changes your life!
You realize: Wow, I'm not alone in this.
Someone else has been where I am, and they found the words to express it.
Today on the podcast we're diving into 20 motivational quotes about grief and the holidays.
Let these words be a touchstone of comfort, even transformation!
Get the Widow 180 Workbook Series Bundle on SALE NOW through Christmas! Go to https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Don't want the whole bundle? Get your downloadable copy of the Surviving The Holidays After Loss Workbook! https://www.widow180.com/holidays
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Gratitude feels IMPOSSIBLE when your heart is broken!
This episode offers hope and guidance for anyone navigating life after loss—especially as the holiday season approaches. This episode explores how gratitude can coexist with grief, even when it feels impossible.
There are simple, authentic practices for noticing the small sparks of goodness in the darkness, like keeping a gratitude journal, writing letters, and daily rituals that support healing.
You’ll learn why tiny acts of gratitude are not about forcing positivity but about reconnecting to life, honoring your loved one, and rebuilding hope for the future. Perfect for widows and anyone struggling to find light when the world feels shattered. Don’t miss this episode about finding gratitude, even in the hardest moments.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your healing journey or want to support someone who is, listen in and discover how gratitude can be a powerful tool for rebuilding after loss.
I also invite you to join the Widow 180 Holiday Club! 4 weeks of support and encouragement during the holidays! Sign up here: https://www.widow180.com/holidayclub
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Are you facing Thanksgiving after the loss of a loved one? We are here to guide you through the heartache and help you create moments of comfort and connection. In this episode, we have five unique and meaningful ways to start your Thanksgiving meal, especially designed for widows, widowers, and anyone coping with grief during the holidays!
From the powerful idea that “hope grows where gratitude is planted,” we discuss how gratitude can coexist with grief and be a key healing tool.
Actionable steps like the “Thankfuls and Giggles” round to balance sincerity with laughter, “Taste of Memory” moments to honor loved ones through food, distraction games to lighten the mood, help ease the pain of this day.
Whether your holiday is filled with bittersweet memories or unexpected sadness, these approaches help ease the heaviness, foster togetherness, and spark joy around the table.
Also you are invited to sign up for the FREE Grief to Gratitude Five-Day Challenge where you can learn to incorporate gratitude as a way of healing. For FREE INSTANT ACCESS, go to http://widow180.kit.com/gratitude.
If your heart feels heavy this holiday season and the empty chair feels overwhelming, I also invite you to the Widow 180 Holiday Club! Part group coaching, part book club, part social group, this is exactly where you need to be this holiday season! Join us at https://www.widow180.com/holidayclub
Listen now for inspiration, practical support, and gentle encouragement to navigate Thanksgiving after loss. You’re not alone—Widow 180 is here for you.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What to do when you're in the messy middle of grief? Sandi Waters' story highlights the complex challenges—and unexpected sources of strength—faced by widows.
In this episode, she candidly describes the overwhelming experience of watching her partner’s abilities slip away, caring for him, and the support she received from Rodney’s family and their adult daughter, who moved in to help.
Sandi and I talk about:
- Faith as Anchor: how faith became her main source of strength, especially in the darkest moments. She speaks openly about wrestling with anger, asking “why,” and ultimately trusting that something bigger was at work.
- The Messy Middle of Grief: the ongoing challenges of widowhood—the fear of being alone, learning to manage a household independently, and the uncertain “middle” phase of grief where the future feels unclear.
- Finding Community & Healing: Support from children, friends, church family, and fellow widows proved essential. Sandi also found solace and inspiration in the Widow 180 Podcast and started her own YouTube channel to document Rodney’s journey and help others facing dementia and loss.
- Giving Back & Looking Forward: She stepped out of her comfort zone with solo travels and is now leading a GriefShare group, discovering purpose in helping others. She emphasizes that healing comes from connection and support, not rushing the process.
Key Takeaways:
- Everyone’s grief journey is unique—there is no timeline for healing.
- Sharing stories and hearing from others who “get it” is crucial for widows feeling isolated.
- Allowing yourself to feel, to cry, and not judge your progress is important in the messy middle of grief.
- Faith, community, and giving back can become lifelines through the darkness.
- Practical steps—getting affairs in order, accepting help, and finding new routines—make the path a bit easier.
- Supporting others through grief (like leading support groups) can offer light, purpose, and even hope for the future.
Tune in to this episode for honest wisdom, real encouragement, and a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, hope and healing are possible.
Connect with Sandi:
Follow her journey and support others facing Alzheimer’s and widowhood on her YouTube channel: @thewaters9111
Join The Widow 180 Holiday Club here: https://www.widow180.com/holidayclub
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
After losing a spouse, many widows and widowers are haunted by guilt — guilt for what they did or didn’t do, guilt for surviving, or even guilt for feeling moments of happiness again. But what if that guilt isn’t proof of love, but a sign that your heart is still searching for peace?
This eye-opening episode explores why widows hold onto guilt after loss and how it can become a false sense of control, loyalty, and purpose. Jen shares deep emotional insight into how guilt gives our pain somewhere to go — and how releasing it doesn’t mean letting go of love.
You’ll learn:
- Why guilt often feels like a form of love after loss
- How the mind uses guilt to stay “busy” during grief
- The truth about control, loyalty, and self-blame
- Gentle steps to begin letting go of guilt while keeping your connection alive
If you’ve ever wondered how to stop feeling guilty after your spouse’s death, this episode is for you! It will remind you that love doesn’t need to be proven through suffering. Releasing guilt is not betrayal — it’s an act of love, for both you and your partner.
Tune in to rediscover peace, forgiveness, and the courage to live again.
Discover more about guilt and grief and start healing today with the newest workbook in the Widow180 Workbook Series, The Let Go Of Guilt Workbook. Download your copy today at https;//www.widow180.com/guilt
Get our weekly newsletter at https://www.widow180.com/newsletter
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"I wanted the TV version of cancer". This week, guest Christine Fader talks openly about the realities of illness and loss, what real support looks like, and reveal the complexities of navigating life after the death of a spouse. From the challenges of anticipatory grief and survivor’s guilt to harnessing rage for positive impact, Christine offers insight, hope, and actionable advice for anyone on this hard journey.
7 Key Takeaways from today are:
- The Reality of Long Illness & Loss: Christine’s experience caring for Michael shatters expectations set by popular media, highlighting the unpredictable, deeply painful, and sometimes traumatic reality of terminal illness and caregiving.
- Navigating Guilt and Regret: Christine candidly discusses feelings of guilt and regret about the choices made in Michael’s final months, and shares how she learned to make peace with decisions that were out of her control.
- The Importance of Honest Conversations: Avoiding conversations about death to protect a partner’s hope often leads to missed opportunities for deeper connection. Christine encourages listeners to have open, meaningful discussions—even if they feel uncomfortable.
- Unexpected Impact of Grief: Even with preparation and anticipatory grief, the shock and physical consequences of losing a spouse—difficulty reading, headaches, disrupted sleep and eating patterns—can be overwhelming. Recognizing these as normal can help with processing the experience.
- Seeking Support and Connection: Christine highlights the value of widow support groups, online communities, and social media as lifelines, especially for those who might otherwise isolate. Finding others who “get it” is essential.
- Harnessing Rage for Good: Fueled by anger over Michael’s suffering and trauma, Christine turned her rage into action by volunteering and advocating for trauma-informed cancer care and awareness—showing how channeling negative emotions can lead to positive change.
- Finding Purpose Through Advocacy and Legacy: Christine’s work—creating a scholarship in Michael’s name and sharing their story with cancer care professionals—reflects the power of transforming personal tragedy into support and hope for others.
Listen in for inspiration, practical advice, and heartfelt wisdom—whether you’re grieving, caring, or seeking ways to make a difference. Christine’s courage and honesty will touch your heart and help you feel less alone.
Visit ChristineFader.com and follow her on Instagram at @awidowswalk to learn more about her advocacy and writing. For community support, join the Widow180 Facebook group.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Today we dive deep into the often-unspoken "downside" of being too strong after the loss of a spouse. This episode explores what happens when widows feel pressured to always put on a brave face for their families—and the hidden costs of doing so. We talk about the importance of letting go of the constant need for strength and to make space for true healing.
3 Main Takeaways from today are:
- It's Okay to Show Vulnerability: Many widowed moms are always trying to be strong for the children, but need to realize that allowing them to see pain could help their healing, too. Modeling vulnerability gives permission for others—especially children—to process their own feelings.
- The Cost of Suppressing Grief: How striving to "just endure" and pushing down emotions is not sustainable. Carrying unprocessed feelings can lead to numbness and anxiety, making true healing much harder.
- Strength Isn’t Always What Heals: While resilience is important, authentic healing comes from allowing yourself to grieve, mourn, and feel—instead of simply performing strength for others. It's crucial to make time to face grief, ask for support, and let go of the guilt that so many widows carry.
Tune in for this honest conversation that reminds us strength doesn’t mean ignoring our own pain—and that real healing begins with permission to be vulnerable.
Get the latest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook Series, The Let Go Of Guilt Workbook today and start releasing the burden and weight of the guilt you've been carrying. Go to https://www.widow180.com/guilt
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Widow 180: The Podcast welcomes Amber Vogt, a recent widow navigating life after the sudden loss of her husband, Jay, in April 2024. Amber opens up about the shock and trauma of that day, parenting through grief, and the unexpected challenges of solo adulthood. Her story is raw, vulnerable, and ultimately inspiring. Here are five standout takeaways from our conversation:
- Trusting Your Instincts: Amber shares how paying attention to a “weird feeling” caused her to go home from work and check on her husband—reminding us to listen to our gut, especially during uncertain times.
- The Fog of Grief: The initial days following loss can be a blur; Amber only remembers fragments and emphasizes that it’s normal to struggle with memory, planning, and focus after trauma.
- Importance of Hard Conversations: Having discussed funeral wishes and life plans with Jay helped tremendously—Amber encourages everyone to talk openly about end-of-life decisions, no matter how uncomfortable.
- Seeking Help and Letting Go: From home maintenance to parenting and finances, Amber’s journey highlights the value of asking for support and accepting that independence sometimes means leaning on others.
- Giving Yourself Grace in Change: Whether it’s tackling household projects as a form of coping, adapting to new routines, or learning to forgive yourself for not having all the answers—Amber’s story illustrates that healing requires patience, self-compassion, and permission to keep moving forward.
Tune in every week for honest widow talk and conversations about loss, resilience, and learning to rebuild life!
Get our latest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook Series, The Let Go Of Guilt Workbook if you need help releasing the tiring burden of guilt after losing your spouse. Get all of the details at https://www.widow180.com/guilt
Get support from our community and join our Facebook Group, Widow 180 The Community on Facebook!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Have you ever wondered how grief can completely change the direction of your life—and even help you discover your strength?
I had the honor of sitting down with guest Rachel Blatt to explore her journey through sudden loss, the unexpected ways she coped, and how she’s found meaning and new purpose. Highlights from our chat include:
- Rachel’s Widow Story: The shocking diagnosis and rapid loss of her husband, Dave, to a rare form of sarcoma, and how she balanced caregiving, parenting, and her own survival during and after his illness.
- The Early Days of Widowhood: Why she dove into life with a sense of urgency—traveling to Paris, sending her sons to camp, and even adopting a new dog in a moment of “manic” decision-making.
- Navigating Grief with Kids: The unique challenges and bittersweet solutions she found to help her boys cope, especially around Father’s Day and family milestones.
- Distraction Actions & Dating Again: Rachel’s candid take on seeking distraction (including jumping into dating), the guilt and judgment widows face, and the unexpected friendships that blossomed from those choices.
- Healing Through Writing: How Rachel’s lifelong love of writing became a lifeline in her grief, leading to published work in The Washington Post and a supportive writing group.
- Signs and Spiritual Connection: Fascinating stories about connecting with her late husband through signs, lost-and-found wedding rings, and sessions with mediums.
- Becoming a Grief Educator: Rachel’s journey to becoming a certified grief educator with David Kessler’s program, the insights it brought her, and the importance of “witnessing” grief in a safe community.
This conversation is packed with wisdom, relatable moments, and hard-earned hope.
Don’t miss it—follow Rachel at @widow-tales on Instagram and Widow Tales on Substack!
Get the newest Widow 180 Workbook, The New To Widowhood? Start Here! Workbook at https://www.widow180.com/newwidow
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"I had no idea!" Here they are...5 things no one tells you about grief after losing your spouse—today I am sharing insights from my own journey through sudden loss and widowhood. If you’re struggling with fatigue, overwhelming fear, loss of motivation, unexpected waves of pain, or feeling like a stranger to yourself, you are not alone!
We are diving deep into the emotional and practical realities of grief that often catch widows off guard, offering understanding and hope for those navigating life after loss.
Tune in as we discuss:
- The exhausting physical effects of grief, even in simple daily tasks
- Fears and anxieties about facing life without your spouse, even if you’ve always been independent
- How old priorities like work, health, and routine can suddenly feel meaningless
- The shocking intensity of pain—especially when it comes to parenting and supporting your children
- Feeling unrecognizable to yourself, with unpredictable emotions and reactions
This episode is a must-listen for new widows, those supporting grieving loved ones, or anyone seeking honest conversation about the realities of widowhood.
Plus, we're introducing the New to Widowhood? Start Here! Workbook, a resource designed to help you navigate the first few months after loss.
Get the workbook at https://www.widow180.com/newwidow
Find community and additional support in the Widow 180 Facebook group and on Instagram (@widow180). For more resources, check out the Widow 180 YouTube channel with 200+ videos on everything from dating to parenting to handling in-law relationships after loss.
Whether you're newly widowed or further along in your healing journey, this episode will help you feel seen, understood, and less alone!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Navigating life after loss can feel overwhelming, but every widow needs to know there is hope and healing on the other side of heartbreak.
Drawing from my own experience and the wisdom and personal journeys of the hundreds of widows I’ve interviewed on Widow 180: The Podcast, I’ve gathered 10 tips every widow needs to know, each designed to encourage self-compassion, practical action, and the rediscovery of joy in this next chapter.
Whether you’re just beginning the journey or seeking new ways to honor your healing, these tips offer guidance and inspiration rooted in real experience.
Check out our newest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook Series, The New To Widowhood? Start Here! Workbook. This is 60 pages of validation, hope, and healing in the form of tips, exercises, and journal prompts to help you through grief.
Get more details and get the workbook at https://www.widow180.com/newwidow
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What if less than a year after getting married, you're told you have only 3 months to live? This was the reality of this week's guest on the podcast, Stephanie Duran, who lost her husband to terminal cancer.
Stephanie opens up about the realities of caregiving and also bravely discusses their experience with California’s Death with Dignity law, and the complexity of honoring Jeff’s wish for a compassionate, courageous end to his suffering.
Stephanie and I chat about:
~Anticipatory grief
~The challenge of rediscovering oneself
~The delicate balance of self-care and moving forward.
~Her decision to become a grief coach
~How trusting your own heart is essential in grief recovery.
She also shares the liberating adventures that helped her reconnect with herself (including a solo trip to the Caribbean), the creation of her memoir, “Because I Loved You: Surviving the Unthinkable,” and her beautiful story of finding new love and building a life in Australia.
If you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice for widows, or simply a story that honors both the pain and hope in loss, this episode is sure to move you!
Tune in for wisdom on navigating grief, letting go with love, and choosing courage in life after loss.
Learn more about Stephanie and find her grief coaching resources at StephanieDuran.com or connect with her on Instagram at @StephanieDuranOfficial.
Don’t miss this heartfelt, hope-filled conversation with someone who’s walked the road and found meaning—and even new love—after heartbreak.
Interested in a second chance at love? If you would like some support on how to date as a widow, I encourage you to get our latest workbook, The Dating Again After Losing Your Spouse Workbook! Get the downloadable workbook here: https://www.widow180.com/dating
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Blizzards and french fries for dinner? There's nothing wrong with that!
In this heartfelt episode, we welcome back Christie Salava for an honest conversation about solo parenting after loss. Christie, who lost her husband Andy to cancer in 2020, opens up about the ups and downs of raising young children while processing her own grief. Christy shares personal stories, confessions, and wisdom—reminding listeners that there’s no handbook for widowed parenting, but there is always hope!
Listen in as we chat about:
- Christie’s journey as a widow and how she navigated sharing her husband’s illness and passing with her young children (ages 7 and 9)
- The struggle of “getting through the day”—from chicken nuggets for dinner to hiring a nanny just to grocery shop alone
- Honest confessions: hiding in closets, anyone??? And feeling the pressure to “not screw up” your children for life
- How Christie learned to balance talking about grief openly with her kids versus letting them be normal kids and honoring their unique ways of processing loss
- Special ways they honor Andy’s memory on milestone birthdays, such as custom engravings in his handwriting and heartfelt blessings
- Advice for other widowed or solo parents: embracing imperfection, evolving as a family, and trusting that joy and love will return
This episode is a comforting, candid look into the realities of widowed parenting—and a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, families can discover new meaning, resilience, and togetherness.
Tune in for support, solidarity, and hope, whether you’re newly widowed or years down the road!
Check out our resources for widows with our Widow 180 Workbook Series covering topics from new grief to dating again! Go to https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
We're always searching for things to help us cope with loss.
Is it books? Is it YouTube videos? Is it live events? Maybe, just maybe, it's these 2 little words that help get you through...
Everything counts.
Let that sink in for a bit.
And start becoming aware of every decision, every interaction, every contribution you make. Every small step counts.
Small steps are still progress.
Start applying this to your life today and see what a difference it can make!
For more resources, check out all of the Widow 180 Workbooks at https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
I hope you're ready to listen in on an honest conversation about grief, growth, and finding new footing after profound loss! I had the privilege of interviewing Linda Davis this week. This chat was rich in wisdom — not just about surviving widowhood, but about rebuilding yourself in the years that follow.
Linda dropped more than a few gems that anyone moving through monumental change might want to tuck away for later. Here are the five that most spoke to me:
- Baby Steps Are Legit Steps
She let herself take things minute by minute. She honored what her instincts and emotions needed, one afternoon or evening at a time. You get to move slowly. That’s not failing; that’s surviving. - It’s Okay to Change Up Your World
Guilt about rearranging your physical space? Let it go. Linda realized she needed her surroundings to reflect this new phase of her life. - Pour Out Your Grief (In Whatever Medium You’ve Got)
For Linda, collage became a unique lifeline — a way to track the rollercoaster of emotions after loss, visually and creatively. - Follow Your Instincts, and Let Spiritual Growth Surprise You
Linda described how loss cracked her open spiritually — even when she hadn’t thought a lot about such things before. Unexpected “signs” from her late husband, new feelings of connection, and a deeper sense of presence in the world around her emerged. - Give Yourself Permission to Rebuild — and Love Again
You are allowed to create a 2.0 version of yourself! Rebuilding takes confidence, but also courage to be a beginner. Don’t pressure yourself to know all the answers, and don’t apologize for whatever timeline, efforts, or interests emerge as you rebuild.
It’s a complicated, deeply personal road — but if Linda’s experience holds anything universal, it’s that healing and possibility co-exist. If you or someone you know needs encouragement after loss, please pass this episode along! There’s wisdom in every step!
Check out Linda's collage pieces in the Widow 180 Facebook group!
Check out our widow resources and Widow 180 Workbook Series at https://www.widow180.com/workbooks
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Having now circled marriage, dating, and second chances at love on Widow 180: The Podcast, I thought I’d finally share a handful of my favorite pieces of advice—many pulled directly from my chat with my now husband Doug for Episode 236!
Widows have so much stress and concern over dating again, so I wanted to share a guy's point of view about it all.
Did he have any concerns? Was there any hesitation about dating a widow?
We also talk about his experience and advice about online dating! He'll give some tips and strategies about getting back out there with confidence!
Real talk, real stories, real hope: all from a place of compassion, experience, and support. If you’re beginning to contemplate dating after widowhood, remember—there is no right way, only your way. And you don’t have to do it alone.
The Dating Again After Losing Your Spouse Workbook is here!
Get the downloadable workbook here and get started today!
https://widow180.kit.com/products/dating
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Debbie Weiss originally joined us for this interview on episode 140 of the podcast. In today's episode we hear her story of losing her husband George to cancer after a 4 year battle. Debbie recounts the loneliness and isolation she struggled with and talks about what she did to overcome those struggles, including turning to writing as a way to heal through grief.
With writing as a passion and outlet, Debbie decided to return to school to pursue her Master's Degree!
She then published her book, Available As Is: A Midlife Widow's Search For Love.
Debbie will be hosting a 4 week grief writing program that starts August 26, 2025!
If you're interested in joining the program click here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/writing-through-loss-with-rachel-blatt-and-debbie-weiss-registration-1482082411389?aff=oddtdtcreator
Interested in dating? Don't know where to start? START HERE! The newest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook Series is out soon! The Dating Again After Losing Your Spouse Workbook is here:
https:www.widow180.com/dating
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Sleep deprivation is a major problem for those of us who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Sleep disorder insomnia after loss is more common than you may think, so if this is affecting you, you're not alone!
In this episode we are talking about some strategies for coping with sleep disorders and getting better sleep while grieving.
Some of these include:
~Sleep sounds or sleep music
~Using a sleep mask
Listen here for more suggestions!
Want to share your own "widow success story" on the pod? Let's talk! Email me at jen@widow180.com
Join thousands of other widows and get our FREE weekly newsletter! Go to https://www.widow180.com/newsletter
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What does it mean to truly start over after unimaginable loss? From learning how to ask for help in her "season of yes," to the strength it took to finally take off her wedding ring, Christie Salava's story is raw, honest, and inspiring—and a powerful reminder that you’re never alone, even in your darkest moments!
Here are 5 key takeaways:
- The Power of Saying "Yes" to Support Christie shared valuable advice she received early in her journey: embrace a "season of yes." She learned to accept help from friends, community, and anyone offering support—even when it felt uncomfortable or humbling. By saying yes, she allowed others to be part of her healing and recognized the importance of not walking through grief alone.
- Profound Shifts in Marriage and Caregiving Christie’s story illustrates how illness can transform a loved one and a marriage. She discussed the pain of watching her husband Andy’s personality change due to his brain tumor and treatments—moving quickly from the man she knew to someone unrecognizable, and the difficult task of protecting her children from those changes while navigating her own grief.
- Reminders That Healing and Moving Forward Aren’t Betrayals The episode deeply explored the emotional complexity of moving forward—especially when it came to taking off her wedding ring and moving out of the family home. Christie expressed her internal tug-of-war between honoring Andy and embracing new chapters.
- Honesty as a Cornerstone of Healing Christie emphasized the importance of being honest—with herself, her children, her support system, and with God. She explained that allowing herself to voice her true feelings, needs, and struggles enabled her to receive comfort and support.
- Cultivating Hope for the Future While honoring her past, Christie shared her growing hope and openness to finding love again—without diminishing the love she still holds for Andy. She highlighted how both personal growth and the courage to tackle challenges (like solo road trips and relocating her family) have helped rebuild her confidence and inspire her children by example.
This episode is full of heartfelt, vulnerable moments and practical wisdom for anyone navigating loss and the journey toward healing.
Be sure to join us again for Part 2 with Christie in an upcoming episode!
Need support for feeling more confident moving into your Chapter 2? Check out the Boost Your Confidence Level After Loss Workbook! Go to https://www.widow180.com/confidence and get the instant download PDF today!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Brandi Abbott joins the podcast today. Brandi recounts the tragic Apache helicopter accident that claimed her husband Derek's life on what was supposed to be his retirement flight, and the wave of grief, faith, and unexpected blessings that followed.
Takeaways from the episode include:
- The Day Everything Changed: Brandi recalls the series of events leading up to Derek’s last flight, and the profound significance of a simple wrench left behind—a symbol that keeps mysteriously appearing, tying their story to a favorite family movie.
- Coping with “Death Words”: Brandi discusses how to redefine the words that trigger pain, transforming “widow” into a source of strength and identity.
- Solo Parenting Challenges: From navigating her kids’ grief to leaning on advice that “kids will flow from you,” Brandi shares her hardest moments and most helpful support systems.
- Finding Support Through Organizations: Brandy details the lifelines provided by groups like Snowball Express, TAPS, Tunnel to Towers, and A Soldier’s Child, and emphasizes the importance of not grieving alone.
- Honoring Derek’s Legacy: The family’s one-year remembrance at “The ABBA Site” (named for its meaning—Father) and the creation of “Becoming One Heart,” a foundation and blog dedicated to giving back.
- Signs, Songs, and a New Pup: Brandi shares the ways Derek sends signs—including the miraculous recovery of a flag, specific songs and their new puppy, Apache, who helps the family heal.
- Advice for Widows: Brandi encourages listeners not to do this journey alone, to share burdens, and to invite others into their story, no matter how hard it feels.
This episode is filled with grace, vulnerability, and practical advice for anyone navigating loss—or supporting someone who is. Listen for moments of laughter, honest tears, and the inspiring ways Brandi is choosing to move forward, one day at a time.
Learn more:
- Becoming One Heart — Brandy’s foundation and blog
- Resources mentioned: Snowball Express, TAPS, Gary Sinise Foundation, Tunnel to Towers, A Soldier’s Child
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Today, I had the honor of sitting down with Kara Jordan Wright, a courageous widow who transformed unimaginable tragedy into real and lasting change.
After losing her husband Jesse in a workplace accident, Kara not only navigated grief with her daughter, Avery, but she also fought to change state laws—making life better for widows and children in Tennessee.
From surviving those darkest days to launching a new glampground business and inspiring a movement, Kara’s story is the ultimate example of resilience, purpose, and how one person can spark real impact!
If you’re seeking inspiration to turn adversity into fuel for your next big leap, this one’s for you!
For help and support finding YOUR purpose after losing your spouse, check out the latest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook Series, The Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss Workbook. Discover what's next for you! Discover what's POSSIBLE for you! Get the digital download instantly at https://www.widow180.com/purpose
Check out Rock Creek Retreat and Ventures here:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565213024619
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
One of the topics that we cover in the new Finding Purpose and Meaning After Loss Workbook is life's synchronicities. These are those seemingly random events that happen to us all the time. It's those little nudges from the universe pushing us in one direction and guiding us.
This happens to all of us. The key is just to pay close attention so you can recognize it when it happens!
In this episode I share a couple of examples of synchronicities. There is magic here. There is mystery here. It's truly fascinating!
For more help with Finding Purpose, grab a copy of the newest workbook, The Finding Purpose and Meaning After Loss Workbook!
Go over to https://www.widow180.com/purpose to download your copy today.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Today's episode is a widow pep talk for you. Sometimes we just need to hear that everything is going to be okay.
Today I am offering some words of encouragement to help you get through this day and this Father's Day weekend, a time when we can really feel the ache of the loss.
I see you and I hear you.
I see how hard you're trying. And the quiet courage it takes to just exist in a world that feels so "off" from normal.
This is a strength that most people don't understand.
But you are still here. You are continuing and making them proud.
You are doing so much better than you think!
If you need more encouragement, be sure to head over to YouTube where you will get a daily dose of inspiration in our 60 Days Of Summer Healing Quest!
And get the FREE Progress tracker too! Go to
https://www.youtube.com/@widow180 to watch and SUBSCRIBE.
Get the tracker at https://www.widow180.com/healingquest
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Welcome to the 60 Days of Summer Healing Quest for Widows and Widowers!
This is the first week of June which means that we are a few days into the 60 days of Summer Healing Quest For Widows and Widowers over on YouTube at Widow 180:The Channel.
I hope you’ve gone over to check out those videos.
If not, what in the world are you waiting for? It’s not too late to join.
For today’s episode I actually want to share with you the first 3 days of the Healing Quest. Remember, each day you have small but doable mission to complete.
Small steps, but big progress!
See you over on YouTube! Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss a day!
https://www.youtube.com/@widow180
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Do you think it's impossible to find love again after losing your spouse? You will want to hear Becca's story this week!
Becca’s journey through sudden widowhood, parenting three children (each with unique stories of their own), rebuilding her life, and eventually finding love again is both humbling and inspiring.
She speaks candidly about the reality of life after loss: solo parenting, making impossible decisions, and waking up in a new “normal” that never feels quite right. Despite feeling fiercely independent, Becca learned to let others in—both as support and, eventually, as friends and new family members.
Here are three key takeaways from the episode:
- Be Vulnerable Enough to Ask for (and Accept) Help: Even someone as independent as Becca struggled to accept support. But she found that when she clearly listed what she needed—whether it was tree removal or meals—her network showed up in amazing ways. Giving others clear, simple ways to help makes a huge difference for everyone!
- Community & Connection are Non-Negotiable: Attending a widow’s conference with Never Alone Widows seemed morbid and overwhelming to Becca at first—but it turned into a lifeline. She eventually created her own thriving widows group, reminding us all that “you’re not alone.” Just one conversation or gathering can spark healing and friendship, even for those who think group support isn’t their thing.
- New Beginnings Don’t Negate Previous Love: Through patience, honesty, and intentional blending, Becca opened herself to a new relationship and family while continuing to honor the legacy of her late husband and everything they built together. It’s a powerful reminder that it’s possible to both grieve and embrace joy, sometimes at the same time.
Becca’s experience is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the beauty that can emerge from saying “yes”—even when it feels impossible.
Becca's Instagram: @thewidowswalk
To join our 60 Days Of Summer Healing Quest For Widows and Widowers and GET YOUR FREE downloadable progress tracker, go to https://www.widow180.com/healingquest
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Can we truly recover after devastating loss? Guest Julie New says, "YES!"
Julie New, grief and sudden loss recovery coach, joins us today on the podcast.
This Episode’s Highlights:
🌷 Julie’s Story – From the pain of grief of losing both her daughters’ father and subsequently her husband, Julie shares how her own path fuels her compassion for others.
🌱 “Watering You” – Julie’s signature message: self-care isn’t just a buzzword, it’s vital. Her analogy of keeping your “watering can filled up” is both practical and moving—reminders we all need.
🌺 Planet Grief – We discuss the surreal feeling of being on “another planet” after loss and the importance of recognizing and honoring that space before slowly returning to yourself and the world.
🍰 Bereavement Café – Discover how Julie’s nurturing spirit led her to create a safe, welcoming space for those grieving—a place with cake, candles, real conversations, and community.
📚 Books for the Grieving Heart – Julie is the author of “Who Are The Flowers in Your Garden?” and “The Grief Garden Path,” both gentle guides for reflection and growth after loss. Her message? Great love creates great grief—but it also plants seeds for future happiness.
💕 Support for Special Days – With Father’s Day approaching, Julie shares heartfelt advice for widows and grieving parents. Be gentle, anticipate triggers, create meaningful rituals, and above all, hold your children close.
A Few Golden Nuggets:
- “You are not alone. Even if you feel alone, the love for your person will never die.”
- “Keep watering you—emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually. If you don’t, you’ll wilt. Keep topping up your watering can.”
Find Julie at www.julienew.co.uk
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Grief specialist Ashley Olivia Nelson joins us on Widow 180: The Podcast. Ashley shared her deeply personal journey as a two-time widow before 35, and her transition into helping others navigate grief.
There were so many powerful insights, but here are the top 3 takeaways:
🔹 Your identity is ever-evolving.
Ashley reminds us that after a significant loss, our sense of self changes—not just once, but many times. Grief challenges us to get intimate with who we are now, and that evolution is both necessary and empowering.
🔹 Feeling "stuck" often means you don’t feel safe, not that you’re failing.
Ashley reframes the sensation of being stuck in grief as a protective response. It’s not a lack of progress—it's your body and mind searching for safety after the world shifts beneath your feet. Finding small ways to regain a sense of security is key.
🔹 Grieving your old life and desires is valid.
You don’t have to “stop wanting what you had.” Ashley encourages us to honor those attachments, validate our yearning, and recognize that healing doesn’t mean erasing your grief, but rather learning to carry it with more ease.
Whether you’re navigating grief yourself or supporting someone who is, Ashley’s wisdom is a must-hear.
Find Ashely at https://www.learningaboutgrief.com
Join us for the upcoming interactive video series, 60 Days of Summer Healing Quest For Widows and Widowers starting June 1.
Get your FREE progress tracker and all information at https://www.widow180.com/healingquest
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Are you stuck in a FRUMP-WIDOW funk?
Try this confidence life hack to break out of a rut and regain some of that confidence you may have lost since becoming a widow.
You will get an instant boost in your spirit, you will perk up, you will stand taller and prouder, you will carry yourself in a different, better way!
Listen to the episode to find out how!
And if you're looking for more tips and help to boost your confidence level after loss, be sure to check out the latest Widow 180 resource in the Widow 180 Workbook series, The Boost Your Confidence After Loss Workbook!
It's available now for immediate download...get your copy and start your transformation today! Go to https://www.widow180.com/confidence
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What if you wanted to make up your own rules for grieving and do what feels right for you? That's EXACTLY what Diane Easley decided to do.
This is an incredibly honest and inspiring conversation with Diane Easley, who graciously shared her journey through widowhood after suddenly losing her husband, Walter, in 2017. I know you will enjoy it and all of the wisdom she shares!
What “Doing Grief Your Own Way” Really Looks Like
Diane’s story starts with the unexpected loss of her husband while he was away on a work trip in Florida—a devastating call that changed everything in an instant. What followed wasn’t a prescribed script of grief, but a deeply mindful, authentic approach rooted in self-awareness and honoring what she needed, not what tradition or others expected.
Diane’s Approach to Grieving:
- Intentionality Over Expectations: Diane realized early on that there isn’t a “right way” to mourn. Wearing black, lighting a candle at the one-year mark, and “moving on” wasn't the real answer!
- Documenting the Realness: She began sharing daily reflections on Instagram—sometimes about a broken watering can that brought her to her knees in grief, other days about the surprising moments of joy she allowed herself to feel.
Setting Boundaries: Diane put a sign on her front door, politely asking visitors not to knock or ring the doorbell, but to quietly come in if the door was open. “It makes people be thoughtful when they show up,” she added—it was what she needed to feel safe and respected during her most vulnerable days.
Be sure to check out the latest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook series, The Boost Your Confidence Level After Loss Workbook available for immediate download now!
If you are tired of feeling scared and letting fear run your life, this workbook is for you!
Get it at https://widow180.kit.com/products/confidence
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What exactly is a "grief hangover"? It is real. And no amount of Advil can help this particular type of hangover.
With this Easter holiday just passing, I wanted to address the "grief hangover" phenomenon that happens when we crash after those big milestone days or holidays. We spend so much energy to get through the actual day. We feel even more exhausted on the days following.
This episode serves as a reminder to do what you need to recover. Give yourself permission to rest and recover and more importantly, go easy on yourself during this time! This is hard!
In this episode, I mentioned the Overcoming Loneliness Workbook, which is available at
https://widow180.kit.com/products/loneliness
Join our Facebook Community at Widow 180 The Community.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Do you feel like you were widowed too soon?
I think all of us can agree that there is never enough time.
This week's podcast guest, Michelle Bader Ebersole, talks with me about being widowed too soon and how her experience through widowhood inspired her to start helping other widows and widowers around the world.
Michelle is a passionate widow advocate, author, and podcaster. Michelle and I talk about:
~Experiencing Widowhood During COVID-19
~The experience of anticipatory grief
~Balancing personal grief with parenting.
~Starting the Widow 2 Soon Podcast
~The inception of her Non-Profit called Widow Goals
~Michelle’s upcoming book “Widow Goals” and its themes.
~Finding Love Again and navigating a long distance relationship (and its benefits!)
You can find Michelle at
https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowed2soon
For help with loneliness, check out the Overcoming Loneliness Workbook at http://widow180.kit.com/loneliness
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What if I start to forget them? What if I forget their laugh, their smell, the quirky things they used to say and do?
This is one of the biggest fears we have as widows. We put so much pressure on ourselves to be the sole record-keeper of our loved one and the life we shared together. It's impossible to remember every detail, and for that, we tend to be hard on ourselves and even feel guilt.
The fear of forgetting is a natural and normal part of grief AND there are steps you can take to help preserve the memories.
It starts with asking some MEMORY QUESTIONS. These are questions you can ask friends and family to help you with. I encourage you to sit and take some time on this bittersweet exercise to recall the memories you don't want to forget.
Get the list at https://www.widow180.com/memories
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What would you do if you were told your spouse only had 12 months to live?
Join us this week for an enlightening conversation with Myra McElhaney on Widow 180: The Podcast where she shares her incredible journey of healing and inspiring others after the loss of her husband, Phil to glioblastoma.
Here are some key takeaways from our discussion:
- Finding Joy After Loss: Myra emphasizes that enjoying life and doing good can become a guiding philosophy to reclaim joy and purpose.
- Revelation: Myra's moment of revelation from a bible verse that resonate with her.
- Navigating Grief's Seasons: For Myra, the first year was tougher than the second, marking a transition from focusing on loss to rebuilding a new life.
- Building a Supportive Network: Myra shared her strategies for rebuilding a social life post-loss, reminding us of the importance of intentional networking for well-being, which can help combat loneliness.
- Her motivation behind writing her book, Building A Life You Love After Losing The Love Of Your Life
- How to combat isolation.
- The benefits of condo living!
- Challenges from downsizing and getting rid of your spouse's things.
Reach Myra at https://recreatingjoy.com/
Struggling with loneliness? Get the Overcoming Loneliness Workbook today and put a stop to loneliness! Get the workbook at https://www.widow180.com/loneliness
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
I am so excited to bring you another inspiring new episode of Widow 180: The Podcast featuring the remarkable Kristin Divers Markey, AKA the "Runaway Widow." In this week's episode, Kristin shares her deeply personal journey of navigating life after the sudden tragic loss of her husband, Mike, in 2015.
👣 Episode Highlights from my chat with Kristin:
- Coping with Tragedy: Kristin recounts the night of Mike's sudden death and the confusion and heartache that followed.
- Seeking Justice: Delve into Kristin's pursuit of justice for Mike's death amid a complex and broken legal system that failed her. Hear how she navigated investigations and the eventual settlement of a civil suit, all while grieving and keeping her full time job as a teacher.
- Spiritual Connections: Kristin recounts her visit with a psychic medium that provided her comfort and a sense of connection to Mike, proving the power such experiences can have in the healing process!
- Adventures in Healing: Kristin took the big, bold step of traveling solo to Thailand on the first anniversary of Mike's passing! Listen as she shares how pushing personal boundaries opened doors to healing, personal growth, and developing an "I can do anything" mindset.
- Finding Love Again: Learn how Kristin ventured into the world of online dating...yikes! Through the power of the internet, she found new love with her new hubby Pete! You don't want to miss her adorable pick-up line that landed her a date! Her second chapter becomes better and better each day!
- Runaway Widow Blog & Book: Kristin started documenting her experiences through her blog, "Runaway Widow," and eventually wrote her book, "No Simple Highway". She loves offering guidance and hope to other widows through her writing and blogging! Be sure to check out her website:
runawaywidow.blog
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Do you ever feel like you're not "grieving right?" Do you sometimes feel like you take one step forward and two steps back when it comes to grieving?
Grief is tricky.
Grief is a complex beast.
I've always found that metaphors are helpful when trying to understand something. So, on today's podcast episode I would like to share a particularly helpful metaphor about the human experience of grief.
Also, did you know that I have a newsletter that I put out each week- and it's totally FREE!
It's really just a weekly note from me with little bites of encouragement, words of wisdom, journal prompts, updates on the latest Widow 180 resources and content. To get the FREE newsletter go to:
https://www.widow180.com/newsletter.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Is it possible to have a full, robust, vibrant life after losing your spouse? YES! Just ask our guest this week on the podcast, Gini Swancy, who lost her husband Mark in 2019.
Gini has found her way through the depths of grief and managed to move forward into a new and exciting phase of life. She shares how on today's inspiring episode.
Gini and I talk about:
~ PTSD associated with widowhood.
~ Feeling isolated and battling loneliness of COVID
~ the concept of "rebirth" and how we need to find a new identity after loss
~ adopting a mindset of saying YES to opportunities and social invitations
~ Trusting your gut when it comes to making decisions
~ Important tax implications when selling your home!
~ How making even small changes to your home, like painting a wall, can make a big impact on your comfort level in your environment
~How there should NO GUILT when it comes to your healing path!
You can reach Gini at www.giniswancy.com
Struggling with loneliness? Put a stop to loneliness today! Grab a copy of the Overcoming Loneliness Workbook at www.widow180.com/loneliness.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"Make new friends, but keep the old" is a saying that means it's important to continue nurturing, or even rekindling, existing friendships while also seeking out new connections in life.
This is especially important advice for widows, as we find ourselves alone again after years of being with our partner. Our friendships and relationships can change. So the value of older friendships becomes more important than ever before.
In this episode, we hear stories of lasting friendship from different widows and how their lives have changed and grown since the loss of their spouse.
Rekindling old friendships - this is one of the strategies covered in the Overcoming Loneliness Workbook. To find more help and support on the subject of loneliness, check out the workbook at www.widow180.com/loneliness.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Are you feeling stuck in grief? Wondering how you'll be able to move forward after losing your spouse? Our guest on the podcast this week is Lauri Robinson, who lost her husband Pat in December of 2022. Lauri struggled with the loss, but in the throes of widowhood, discovered that a change in perspective and attitude kept her motivated to keep going.
Lauri and I talk about:
~How she chose to make some big, bold moves and do things out of character for her!
~How she continued to ask herself "What else can I do?" to keep her motivated!
~ How she chose to say "Yes" to new friendships and opportunities
~ How her involvement in her local widow's group has been a game-changer for her healing!
~How she started her business the year after Pat died.
~How she plans and handles BIG occasions, like weddings and holidays.
If you're struggling with loneliness, be sure to check out the latest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook series called "The Overcoming Loneliness Workbook". Get the download here: https://www.widow180.com/loneliness
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Are you dreading Valentine's Day? Do you just want to get this day over with?
While Valentine's Day may be a romantic celebration for couples, this can be an extremely tough time to be alone for widows. So, what can we do about it?
The best thing is to plan for it. The best thing is to feel more empowered on this day. With the right planning and mindset, you will have a better time coping.
Today we are talking about 25 Ways to make this Valentine's Day a fun and fulfilling occasion-even if you are alone!
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
After losing her husband to Glioblastoma, Pam Baker knew her life would never be the same. She struggled to find joy in her life again.
Today on the podcast Pam shares how she followed her heart (and some very interesting signs from the universe!) to a new direction, filled with purpose and meaning.
She talks about:
~ Establishing a "caregiver team"
~ Lessons from her grief counselor
~ An unexpected trip to Honduras
~ Her biggest struggle as a soloparent
~Starting "Widows Who Wine" Grief support group
~ Writing her new book AND developing an App for widows, all in the last year!
Pam runs her in-person grief groups in Roswell, GA.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Are you ready for an adventure?
Yesterday was National Plan For A Vacation Day and today on the podcast we are talking all about the power of Positive Anticipation, which is the act of looking forward to a future event or experience that is expected to bring joy and excitement.
Having things to look forward to, big or small, is a major coping strategy that helps us recover from stress and anxiety.
This is an amazing go-to method for improving how you feel and boosting your mood.
Plan something, so that you have something to look forward to.
It's that simple.
So, start daydreaming! Start making a plan!
Imagining good things in the future makes us feel better in the current moment!
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
How can you find the motivation and confidence to move forward after losing your spouse?
Jennifer Sander joins us on the podcast this week to talk about her experience in widowhood, what she leaned on during tough times, and how she was able to cope with the loss of her husband Shannon.
We chat about:
~ the signs she got from Shannon after he passed away (and a premonition he had before!)
~ how to get motivated when you feel like giving up.
~ how she leaned on Widow 180: The Podcast to hear inspiring stories of other widows!
~ a genius way she handled cleaning out their closet and getting rid of his stuff.
~ how she started her business just months after losing Shannon
~ her amazing encounter with a medium!
~ how surrounding herself with friendship and support from other widows has been a game-changer for her healing!
You can reach Jennifer and check out her business at:
www.cipromo.net
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Welcome back to the first episode of 2025!
On today’s episode we are talking about how to thrive in 2025!
One thing to do is to leave behind the thoughts and things that don’t serve you, that don’t help you, the thoughts that hold you back.
In order to move forward with confidence in 2025, we can leave behind self-doubt. We can leave behind the negative thoughts that tell us that we’re not capable. The ones that tell us how we won’t make it through this.
We need to let go of the belief in those thoughts.
Let the hurtful talk go.
And remember this quote by Roy T Bennett that says:
“Believe in your infinite potential. Your only limitations are those you set upon yourself.
Believe in yourself, your abilities and your own potential. Never let self-doubt hold you captive. You are worthy of all that you dream of and hope for.”
Believe this and just see where 2025 takes you!
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
How can a simple quote or a short poem make such a difference to a person?
Here’s the thing—grief can be isolating.
It can make you feel like no one else understands what you’re going through.
But when you come across a line of poetry or a heartfelt quote that captures exactly what you’re feeling, it’s like a light bulb goes off.
You realize: I’m not alone in this.
Someone else has been where I am, and they found the words to express it.
Today on the podcast we dive deep into 20 motivational quotes about grief and the holidays.
Let them become a touchstone of comfort, understanding, even transformation!
Have a lovely holiday.
xoxo, Jen
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
I want to offer something up to you this month.
I want to challenge you to be daring and do something different in December!
This time of year can be especially trying and challenging for widows as we navigate the holidays and the ups and downs of balancing tradition with moving forward after losing our spouse.
So, why not change things up a little this month!
Change the focus.
Get out of your own head and change the focus onto some new experiences and even new adventures.
Today I am going to share 9 ways to be daring in December, step out of your comfort zone, get out of your own way, and do something different that may in fact change your life!
For extra help and support this holiday season, grab a copy of The Widow's Holiday Guidebook: 45 Days of Self-Reflection, Self-Compassion, and Self-Care.
The eBook is only $7!
Download your copy at https://www.widow180.com/books
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
The holidays are almost here!
Have you made any plans?
Do you have an idea of what you want to do?
Who do you want to see?
Many of you are facing the holidays alone for the first time in a long time.
And while this should be a season of joy, for many widows it's a time we would just like to skip over or ignore!
In today's repeat episode from #148, we are talking about the 3 P's to remember this holiday season!
These P's are taken from my book, The Widow's Holiday Guidebook: 45 Days of Self-Reflection, Self-Compassion, and Self-Care.
If you would like to get a copy of this eBook, download it here:
https://www.widow180.com/books
I hope you find this episode to be empowering! If you like it, please share it with a friend!
Please leave us a rating and review...it helps us reach widows around the world!
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
This is an episode that I recorded in November 2022 the week before Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a time when we are focused on family and gratitude.
BUT...
As you know, it's pretty difficult to find things to be grateful for when you are buried in grief and suffering the loss of someone special in your life.
Grief causes a serious gratitude slump!
Here's a way to uplevel your gratitude game and REALLY feel the emotion of gratitude again!
If you need extra help this holiday season, get a copy of my e-book: The Widow's Holiday Guidebook today! It's 45 days of self-reflection, self-compassion, and self-care! AND it's only $7! Go to https://www.widow180.com/books
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Mother Theresa has a quote that says, "We can do no great things, only small things done with great love."
This week on the podcast we are talking about harnessing your ability to see the beauty in the small gestures.
You have the gift of sight. You can choose to see the good in the small miracles and acts of humanity, even as you world is crumbling under grief.
I encourage you to remember this.
You have the gift of sight.
Use it. Practice it. Embody it.
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Welcome back to Part 2 of my interview with Tracy Quinn!
This week I talk to Tracy about:
~ Being resilient and learning what helps you recover from the trauma of loss.
~ How she found a new love in her life with James.
~ Things to consider when dating as a widow!
~ Moving and selling her home.
~ Keeping memories of her life with Carl.
~ Handling milestone days.
~ Giving yourself grace during the hardest time of your life.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Welcome to this incredibly inspiring interview with the lovely Tracy Quinn! Tracy lost her husband Carl in 2020 to COVID. Today she is on the podcast sharing her experience with the world, offering golden nuggets of advice that you don't want to miss! Her strength and positivity are an inspiration to all of us. This is Part 1 of a 2 part interview.
Tracy and I chat about:
~ How losing her husband during COVID forced her into quarantine and a completely different grieving experience than normal.
~ How the power of community and friends can help us get through even the toughest times.
~ How she was able to honor Carl during the COVID quarantine
~ How she handled loneliness
~ Having dreams about our loved ones and what they mean
Be sure to come back next week for Part 2 of the interview!
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Today's episode was inspired by a message I received via email from a listener who had recently lost her husband.
She had something that was weighing on her mind and keeping her up at night. She kept thinking...
"What if I get sick?"
And that thought spiraled into...
"Who will take care of me?"
"How will I manage?"
"How will I be able to keep up with my house if I get sick?"
These are all valid concerns and I know a lot of you listeners can relate to these questions!
Let's talk about it on today's episode!
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Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Join me this week as we celebrate a HUGE milestone of reaching 200 podcast episodes on Widow 180: The Podcast!
I thought I would take this time to share my story with you since we have so many new listeners and members of the Widow 180 community.
This is an interview I did with Emily Thiroux Threatt on her podcast titled "Grief and Happiness" last year.
I share my own widow story, how becoming a widow changed my life, affected my attitude, and changed my perspective.
I share the lessons I've learned and the mistakes I've made on this journey.
I also share how the podcast came to be and how inspired I am by the widows I get to meet every single day!
I cannot thank you enough for all of your support!
200 episodes - what an incredible milestone!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
We all know that grief and anxiety can go hand in hand.
After losing your spouse, it’s hard to stop the feeling of being out of your body and out of your mind. You’re massively anxious. Your mind races with uncertainty. Fear rushes through you. Your thoughts are running through every horrible scenario and possibility. You expect nothing but the worst of all circumstances to occur. Your breathing is shallow. You’re sweaty and uncomfortable. You’re in the middle of a panic attack.
When you find yourself about to have a panic attack or in the midst of a panic attack, there is something you can do to stop it. To calm yourself down, to control it and get a grip on the whirlwind that you’re lost in.
Try THIS helpful grounding practice the next time you feel a panic attack coming on.
Grab our FREEBIE, The How To Get Your Life Back Together After Loss: 10 Step Checklist HERE: widow180.ck.page/lifeback
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Most bereaved people make their way along the grief road, albeit bumpy and full of potholes, that leads to accepting the loss, integrating the reality of that loss into a new life, and reimagining a future with the possibility of joy.
The acute grief, the intensely painful grief that you feel in those first months, starts to lessen. It transforms and becomes integrated into your new life, your new normal.
Most people fall into this category.
However, a small minority of people, roughly 7-10% according to the National Institute of Health, become so entangled, essentially trapped in their grief.
And this is where complicated grief is different. Complicated grief is the syndrome that occurs when the transformation from the darkness of grief back into the light does not happen.
Complicated grief disrupts the healing process. Complicated grief is altered grief that starts down a different course than the one we just talked about. Basically, it takes a turn for the worse. You struggle to move forward. Your grief is so profound it becomes chronic and debilitating. It cripples your ability to function normally in the world. The suffering persists. It becomes deep-rooted. Sometimes lasting for years. Healing just doesn’t happen.
Today we discuss **what it means to have complicated grief, who is likely to experience it, and how we can treat it.
Questions or comments? Email me at jen@widow180.com**
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This is Part 2 of my interview with the lovely Leila Salisbury, who opened Kentucky's first center for grief support for families and children. Leila shares her expertise in the field of children's grief and tells us how to communicate more effectively about loss.
Today we talk about:
~ How kids use anger as an outlet for grief (we all do!)
~ How we can help kids process their anger using focused activities like mindfulness techniques, art therapy, etc. These work for adults as well!
~ Letting kids be kids! They should never feel a burden to take over a parenting role in the household.
~The challenge and struggle of balancing your own grief and your child's grieving needs. They don't always match up! And sometimes we need to compromise.
~ Always keep the lines of communication open with kids!
~ Check out all of the resources on Leila's website: www.kcgcf.org
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I am so pleased to welcome back Leila Salisbury to the podcast to talk about parenting your grieving child. This is Part 1 of 2 episodes with Leila.
Leila was first on the podcast in episode 174 where she talked about losing her husband to suicide, raising her daughter, and opening Kentucky's first and only family grief support center.
Be sure to check out that interview!
On today's podcast, Leila and I talk about:
~how to have hard conversations with grieving children.
~resources like the Eluna Network
~behavioral milestones of grieving children
~setting boundaries with kids
~teens and loss
~what is a 504 document? why you might want to get one!
I hope you enjoy this episode! Join us next time for Part 2 with Leila and more important advice on parenting grieving children.
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Megan Kopka joins us this week on the podcast! She lost her husband Keith to the devastating illness ALS. Megan is passionate about helping women, especially- caregivers and widows, find financial security and
freedom to live fulfilling lives supported through planning and investing.
In today's interview, we chat about:
~where she was able to find support after losing Keith
~her greatest fear as a widow
~finding healthy coping mechanisms
~finding the strength to show up every day and be a good role model for your kids!
~her involvement with Modern Widows Club
~her fierce dedication to helping widows and caregivers thrive!
Megan is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Registered Life Planner.
Megan co-founded the Cape Fear Community of the Modern Widows Club (MWC) in May 2020 and served as their community advocate until December 2023. She also served on the Golden Committee for the National Modern Widows Club,
a national non-profit organization that serves widows. Megan is now the Board Chair for MWC.
You can reach Modern Widows Club at https://www.modernwidowsclub.org
You can reach Megan at https://www.apprisewealthmanagement.com
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Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Capt. David Dorn tragically lost his life in 2020, while responding to a break-in during a protest in St. Louis.
His widow, Ann Wood-Dorn, joins me today on the podcast to talk about Dave, how she has coped with his loss, and how she is living out his legacy of generosity and kindness.
Ann and I talk about:
~the riots in St. Louis and the events around her husband's death in 2020.
~how she handled debilitating anxiety.
~going through a trial process and how to handle stress
~an incredible connection she formed with her service dog, Poncho!
~buying a new house only months after Dave passed away.
~starting a foundation in March 2022
~how she is finding purpose by giving back and helping first responders
If you would like to make a donation, please click below:
https://www.dornfoundation.com/meet-the-foundation-2
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We all experience guilt in some way after we lose our spouse.
We feel responsible for what happened.
We get trapped in this illusion of control, thinking that we could have or should have done something differently and they would still be here.
In this episode, you will hear how guilt shows up for widows, why we continue to blame ourselves, and how we can let go of guilt in grief.
As long as you feel the need to punish yourself, you cannot get on with the business of living a happy life.
Give yourself permission to move forward.
Please always be kind to yourself.
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a kind rating and review for the podcast! It is always appreciated!
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"I just always knew in my heart that I had to keep living." ~Emily Curtis
Emily Curtis, widow and grief coach, joins us this week on the podcast to talk about how she was able to tap into her own resilience to move through grief after losing her husband Brad suddenly.
We chat about:
~ anger being such a HUGE emotion around grief
~ how her friends really became her family during this time.
~ her strategy for handling loneliness!
~ how EMDR was a game-changer for her trauma!
~ how medication from her therapist helped her slow down and BE IN her grief to process it all!
~ how she met her new love, Lyon and is embracing and living into this new relationship!
~ how she became a certified grief coach and is helping other widows navigate their grief.
~ you can find her at Awaken and Renew Grief Coaching:
https://www.awakenrenewcoaching.com
If you enjoyed this episode, please lave a rating and review!
Thanks!
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My guest this week on the podcast is MaryJo Newell. I've known MaryJo from really close to the beginning of her widowhood story. A few years later, I can see the changes in her, the growth, and her transformation of becoming who she is today. Join us in this conversation as she shares her insights, perspectives, and things she's learned about life and about herself.
We chat about:
~losing her husband in January 2020 and navigating loss, grief , and COVID isolation all at once
~how Facebook was her outlet and connection during COVID
~her decision to move despite people telling her what to do.
~dealing with guilt over feeling better!
~making the decision to give yourself permission to move forward in life
~how she learned to find new hobbies and new friends
~how she chose to travel solo and how it changed her world!
~her genius advice about going to concerts!
Mary Jo is such a light and such a joy!
If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe so you don't miss an episode. Also, please leave a nice rating and review for the podcast so we can reach more widows around the world!
Thank you!
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Ryane Moates joins us this week for a candid interview about losing her husband and her journey through losing her confidence, losing her faith, and losing hope.
She shares what she did to welcome God back into heart, what she did to regain that confidence, and what she chose to bring purpose and meaning into her life through her YouTube channel, Ryane To The Rescue!
We talk about:
~ how she lost her husband John 7 weeks after a horrible biking accident.
~How she embraces the word "acceptance"
~when she decided to take off her ring
~ How she struggled with her faith
~How she was able to rebuild confidence
~How she decided to launch her YouTube channel
~How she write her new book, Field Guide For Widows
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
This is Part 2 of my interview with Eva Still, widow, author, yoga therapist, and retreat leader.
In this episode, Eva walks us through some helpful breathing exercises to calm and regulate our nervous system when we feel anxious.
She also mentions several books that she recommends for grief and mindfulness. Here's a list:
Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief (David Kessler)
Writing to Heal the Soul: Transforming Grief & Loss Through Writing (Susan Zimmerman)
Anxious Grief: A Clinician's Guide to Supporting Grieving Clients Experiencing Anxiety, Panic & Fear(Claire Bidwell Smith)
Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory (Deb Dana)
When Life Hits Hard: How to Transcend Grief, Crisis & Loss with Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (Russ Harris)
The Chakras in Grief & Trauma (Karla Helbert)
In Spanish... El Duelo Duele... y eso está bien (grief hurts... and that's ok) (Camilo Russi)
Breath techniques:
Physiologica sigh - two sips in through the nose, filling the lungs, long slow exhale through the mouth
Lengthen the exhale - inhale for four, exhale for five, six or seven
Box breathing - inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4, inhale 4... etc.
Grounding/self-soothing
Butterfly hug - bilateral stimulation, hands crossed on the chest or to the opposite shoulder, gently tapping while breathing deeply
Orienting - look around your space and name three things you see
5 senses orienting - name something you can see, hear, smell, feel touch
You can reach Eva at:
Instagram @evastillyoga
Website: https://www.evastill.com
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Today's podcast guest, Eva Still, has an incredible story to share! Her life has taken her down so many different, unexpected paths and I can't wait for you to hear all about her adventures!
This interview is broken up into 2 parts, so you will hear the first half today, where Eva talks about:
~visits from her late husband and the conversations they had!
~Her take on how the universe is always guiding you in the right direction.
~ how she turned to yoga as a "safe place" to grieve
~ how she spent over a month in Bali getting her yoga training.
~how she quit her job and spent 7months backpacking in South America before settling in Colombia!
I hope you find her story inspiring! I know I did! I hope this motivates you to go out and have your own adventures because life is too short to miss out!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Feeling isolated and lonely can be one of the most challenging parts of widowhood. But, that's actually putting it lightly, right?
I know that loneliness is not just a "challenge". It's all-encompassing. It's life-altering. It's anxiety-inducing and triggering.
I also know that a really good quote has the power to to get you through a really bad day.
So, today on episode 187 of Widow 180: The Podcast, I am sharing a selection of quotes that will hopefully strike a chord with you, help bring some self-awareness to your situation, cause some perspective shifts, and give you something to hold onto during this difficult time in your life.
If you would like more help and support with loneliness, be sure to sign up for The Overcoming Loneliness Workshop for Widows.
The LIVE Zoom session will be held on Sunday April 21, 2024 at 8pm EST!
Join us at https://www.widow180.com/lonely
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
You know that awful feeling when you find out after the fact that there was a party or a get-together thrown by a friend or family member?
It's the dreadful, gut-wrenching feeling of being left out.
It stings.
Today, I want to offer you 7 tips on how to deal with feeling left out.
These are some things you can do to help soothe the sting of rejection.
For more help and guidance with loneliness, be sure to sign up for our upcoming workshop, Overcoming Loneliness Workshop for Widows.
It's happening on Sunday April 21, 2024 at 8pm EST. This LIVE 60-90 minutes Zoom session will cover ways to help you stop feeling lonely.
Sign up at https://www.widow180.com/lonely
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
"Stay open to the universe and the void gets filled."
These are the wise and brilliant words of advice from this week's guest, Julie Hanrahan.
Julie lost her husband Paul suddenly and unexpectedly on October 27, 2021 at only 33 years old. Julie's life went into a tailspin.
In today's episode she shares:
~how she was struck with PTSD, panic attacks, and breathing problems following the loss of her husband.
~how she decided immediately to sell her house and move to the next town over to start a new life.
~how she had to pivot from her high-stress career in social work to now teaching yoga classes.
~ how she was able to boost her confidence by travelling the world.
~ how her relationship with her dad strengthened after living with him for 6 months.
~how she was able to open her heart to a new love with a new partner!
~ how she is still struggling with the fact that Paul passed away on the same day as her birthday.
~how she is paving her own way in her new life!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Is social media slowing down your grieving process? Find out here!
Do you LOVE Facebook? Are you obsessed with Instagram? Social media has changed everything about the way we interact with each other.
You may see on Facebook that you have hundreds, maybe even thousands of Facebook "friends". But how many of those people really know you? Do they know the struggles you're going through?
Social media can give us a false sense of connection to others.
Find out in this episode how social media could be hindering your healing process.
Key takeaways from this episode:
~ Start noticing how social media is making you feel. Is it uplifting? Or is it bringing you down?
~ Make an intention to have more face-to-face interactions with those Facebook friends! That's where the true connection happens!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Maybe you've heard some phrases like "You have to feel in order to heal" or "Feel your feelings, don't try to escape them."
As a person who helps widows figure out this whole "widowhood mess", I know there is so much truth to these statements.
But what if those feelings pop up right before a big work presentation?
What if those emotions well up in the middle of a parent-teacher conference?
Join me this week for a realistic conversation around putting strong feelings ON HOLD until the time is appropriate to release them.
This means, YES, you do have to feel the feelings, but NOT RIGHT NOW!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Becky Long joins us on the podcast today for a candid interview about how she is rebuilding her life after losing her husband Don in 2022.
My favorite quote from this episode: "This new chapter in my life...I'm gonna play the hell out of it." ~Becky Long
Becky shows so much strength and resilience in this raw and honest interview. We talk about:
~ how she started hiking, journaling, and listening to podcasts to help her cope with the loss.
~ How we should educate ourselves on grief to get a better understanding of what we're going through.
~ How NOT to stay stuck!
~ How you can't rush through the grieving process.
~ How moving to a new condo and making new friends is helping her re-identify with her new self.
~ How we should not put the burden of our own healing on our grown children.
~How it helped her so much to have a vision of who she wanted to be.
~How your healing is your responsibility and no one else's.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Today on the podcast Tiffany Coleman shares her story of loss, but it's also a story of strength and how she was able to power through and prevail, how she is raising her children, and how she is choosing joy despite the pain of losing her husband.
Tiffany and I talk about:
~ how her husband Dwight passed away from a pulmonary embolism in their home on her daughter's birthday.
~ How she grappled with her faith, but ultimately leaned on God for healing and hope.
~ How she and the kids are celebrating the "heaven day" each year.
~ How to schedule "grief time" as a busy mom.
~ How year 2 was not as bad as year 1 for her!
~ How people say the most awful things, with the best intentions!
~ how a change in her environment/ redecoration project helped her to step into her new life
You can find Tiffany on Insta: @tiffanycoleman316
Her website is www.tiffany-coleman.com
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Kali Sakai's husband Ken was diagnosed with glioblastoma and ultimately passed away in 2021. In this heartfelt, honest interview, Kali shares:
~ Ways to celebrate your loved one (quilts, special ceremonies, etc.)
~ How to talk to your kids about the hard things in life.
~ Forming a "Wellness Team" to keep you sane!
~ Changing friendships and NEW friendships
~ Ways that grief changes us as a person
~ Dating long distance as a widowed mom (Hint: It works!)
Kali is an author who writes for an online parenting magazine called parentmap.com. She also has a blog called evidentlyblog.com
Be sure to sign up for The Miracle Month group coaching program starting Monday March 4, 2024 at 8pm EST!
Get all the info at https://www.widow180.com/miraclemonth
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Are you feeling stuck?
Having trouble believing that you will ever be able to move forward?
Stuck in a place of fear and indecision?
Let's talk.
Mentioned in this episode:
Grab your spot in the Miracle Month 4 week group coaching program! We kick off Monday March 4, 2024!
For more info go to www.widow180.com/miraclemonth
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Kim Seewald is our special guest this week on the podcast! She is sharing her story of losing her husband to cancer and how she has navigated the changes that came along with widowhood, including building a house, selling a car, moving, selling property, and learning how to manage her new life without her husband.
Kim's positive attitude and motivation to make her husband proud are what keep her going every day.
We chat about:
~ making big changes in the first year of widowhood (and that it's ok!)
~ strange physical effects of grief on the body
~ how moving was the best thing she ever did
~ when she took off her wedding ring
~ how she is filling up her calendar with trips and dates with grandbabies!
If you found this episode to be inspiring, we would love to hear the feedback! Email me at jen@widow180.com
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
How will YOU be spending Valentine's Day this year?
If you're dreading Valentine's Day this year, it's totally understandable.
But, instead of making this a day of suffering and sadness, let's make it a day of treating yourself and doing something special!
This is a list of 3 ways to celebrate Valentine's Day as a widow.
Remember, you control this day. You have the power to take back and enjoy this day and celebrate whatever way you choose.
How are YOU spending this Valentine's Day? If you have any other ideas on how to spend Valentine's Day, I would love to hear it!
Email me at jen@widow180.com
Please subscribe and leave us a rating and review! I would really appreciate it! It helps the podcast reach even more widows across the world!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
It's already February. Valentine's Day is coming up. For many widows, it's a time when we start to think about new love and new relationships.
Maybe you're at that point, and maybe you're not quite ready for that.
Either way, you will want to listen to today's episode where we talk about WHY you want to start dating again. We will doing the work and asking some important questions to figure out the intent behind your decision to date again!
If you're not sure if you're ready to start dating, you need to take THIS QUIZ, Are You Ready To Date?
To get the list of the TOP 5 Online Dating Sites and Apps for widows, Click HERE
Other podcast episodes about dating you will definitely want to check out...
Episodes 31, 73, 99 101, 128, and 163!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
What are you fed up with?
What are you sick and tired of?
Today, we're going to be getting really honest with ourselves and do a deep dive into our own habits, our own thoughts, our patterns that we've fallen into.
Maybe there are some aspects of your life that you're not happy about.
Are you unhappy at work?
Are you holding onto things in your house, like items or clutter, that you're procrastinating parting with?
Are you drinking too much wine at night to numb your feelings and pain?
Let's get real in this episode.
It may be time for you to make some necessary changes in order to grow and move forward.
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
This is such a special interview with our guest this week, Leila Salisbury, who lost her husband suddenly to suicide, leaving her to raise their daughter. Her story is one of courage and resilience and you don't want to miss it!
Leila and I chat about:
~How to navigate through grief when the marriage wasn't so great.
~How she found help in unexpected places, as a solo-parent living in a city where she didn't have family around to support her.
~ How she had to find the right ways to support her daughter's grief, which was completely different from her own grief experience.
~ How her mother's sudden death shaped her decision to pivot her career into doing grief support work.
~ How she decided to open Kentucky's first and only family grief support center.
~ How she learned to recognize signs from the universe that give you nudges in the direction you're supposed to be going!
~ How her relationship with her daughter has formed over the years.
~ How finding purpose and meaning after loss is possible!
You can reach Leila at https://www.kcgcf.org/
Please share this episode with someone who needs it! Please subscribe and leave us a review!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
This is a short but sweet, Quick Tip Tuesday episode to serve as a reminder to you just how awesome you are!
Widows will often say to me, "Am I going to feel this way forever? I thought I should be better by now. I don't see how things are getting better for me."
Let's dig deeper into these questions and thoughts.
You're doing so much better than you think you are!
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
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For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Welcome back listeners! It's been a while since I posted an episode on Widow 180 and I am thrilled to be back!
It's a new year, new changes, new direction, and tons of brand new interviews and episodes coming your way each and every week!
Happy New Year to all of you!
As we step into a new year, we always want to look forward with optimism, with hope that the new year will be brighter, better, happier than the prior one.
How can we make next year better?
How can I feel better in the coming year?
Today I present to you 3 things to focus on in 2024 to make your life better!
We will be talking about:
~getting back on track with your health
~asking for and accepting help
~finding hope in your journey of healing
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also, follow us IG for more hope and motivation! https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Got questions? I can help. Email me at jen@widow180.com
Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ
For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Well, this is it! The last episode of Widow 180: The Podcast! But this is not really the end, my friends. You see, we've moved all of our latest episodes to The Widow Squad Podcast, where we bring you a new episode each every week.
Check out our latest episode here: https://widowsquad.com
I'm joined by my co-hosts Melissa Pierce and Kim Murray, where we share the latest amazing interviews, resources, tips and advice about all things widowhood, to help and support you during this extremely difficult time in life. You don't have to walk this path alone, so be sure to subscribe to The Widow Squad Podcast so you don't miss the encouragement and inspiration you need!
Other ways we can help: Become a member of our exclusive online community, The Widow Squad community, and join us for LIVE weekly Zoom calls, workshops and materials to help you navigate through grief and step into a new life of purpose and joy!
Check out https://widowsquad.com to get more info.
Stop waiting for your life to start again! We know you have the courage and confidence to live the life you deserve and we are here to help you get there!
Get our FREE Guide about how to have a better relationship with grief and start feeling better today. Get the guide at https://widowsquad.com/resources
This episode was inspired by our Widow Squad group coaching discussion about how our relationships with others have changed since we lost our partner.
We will sometimes notice a shift in our relationships with friends and family, at the time when we need them the most!
So, ask yourself THIS ONE question to infuse some peace and calm into your life!
You have the power to control your own happiness and attitude!
If you would like to join us in the Rediscovery Through Writing - Creative Grief Writing Program for Widows, sign up today and save your seat! We're starting Monday April 3, 2023.
Go to https://www.widow180.com/rediscovery
This episode is one that was just too juicy to pass up! This is an episode from the Widow Squad Podcast, where we get the inside scoop on what it's like navigating the dating world as a widow.
I hope you enjoy these stories of second chances at love. I hope this encourages you that there can be happiness, joy, and even unexpected love after loss.
If you would like to join us in the 4 week Rediscovery Through Writing Program, click here: https://www.widow180.com/rediscovery
This is 4 weeks of live Zoom group coaching sessions to help you move through grief and gain clarity on who you are and what you truly desire in life.
To get info on becoming a Widow Squad member, go to https://www.widow180.com/membership
One of the common things I see happen with widows is that after we lose our spouse, we get overloaded with taking care of all the things. We're trying to find a new balance, managing the logistics of the day to day, but we also wonder who we are. We wonder what's in store for us. And we don't have the time to sit and contemplate it!
That is why retreats offer an amazing, beautiful escape from our routine to give us the time to focus on ourselves, for once!
This episode talks about 6 reasons why every widow needs to go on a retreat this year! Make yourself a priority! Take care of you! Give yourself the gift of time and space to get some clarity in your life!
If you would like to join us for our all-inclusive 3 day Healing Hearts Retreat for Widows, get in here and save your spot today! Grab a widow friend (or two) and make it a fun girls weekend!
Sign up at https://www.widow180.com/retreat
Join our Facebook group to keep up with announcements and inspiration! https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Email me: jen@widow180.com
See you at the retreat in May!
Thank you for listening and sharing the podcast with others who need to hear these inspiring stories of hope! Please leave a rating and review!
When you become a widow, suddenly everyone approaches you with some well-intentioned advice. This is one of those 'widow rules' we hear about all the time!
"They" say not to make any big changes in the first year of widowhood. But you have to consider, on an individual basis, if this makes sense to you or not.
Here are some instances where big changes just make more sense!
Have you joined the Widow Squad community yet? Why not? Become a member of this amazing group of widows and start your journey to healing from loss. You don't have to do this alone!
https://www.widow180.com/membership
Join our Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
The Healing Hearts Retreat For Widows is May 5-7, 2023! Will you be joining us! Get in here and save your spot today! https://www.widow180.com/retreat
Please share the podcast and leave us a rating and review! Thank you for listening!
Become a Patreon supporter of the podcast for just $3 per month to keep the podcast going! Thanks! https://patreon.com/widow180
When you become a widow, suddenly everyone approaches you with some well-intentioned advice. This is one of those 'widow rules' we hear about all the time.
"They" say not to make any big changes in the first year of widowhood. But you have to consider, on an individual basis, if this makes sense for you or not.
Here are some instances where big changes just make more sense!
Have you joined the Widow Squad yet? Why not?! Become a member of this amazing group of widows and start your journey to healing from loss. You don't have to do it alone! https://www.widow180.com/membership
Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
The Healing Hearts Retreat For Widows is May 5-7, 2023! Will you be joining us? Get in here and save your spot! https://www.widow180.com/retreat
Please share the podcast and leave us a rating and review! Thank you for listening!
This week's podcast guest is no stranger to grief and loss. Emily Thiroux Threatt is our special guest on the podcast today. She has been widowed twice and shares her journey through both losses, how she coped with grief, and how she is finding happiness and joy through creativity and new pursuits!
We chat about:
~ How Emily quit her job to become a full time caregiver and had to start all over again after losing her first husband, Jacques.
~ How certain friends start to distance themselves, but then life surprises us and the right people come into our lives at the exact right time!
~ How Emily told herself to start saying YES to invitations, and her world opened up to brand new adventures!
~ Emily signed up on Match.com reluctantly after her friend persuaded her to. She met Ron and the two were married a few years later!
~ Ron fell ill and died of congestive heart failure. They had been married for 10 years.
~ Emily wrote a book called Loving And Living Your Way Through Grief! Her new book is coming out in April!
~ Best advice: take care of yourself!
You can find Emily at www.lovingandlivingyourwaythroughgrief.com
If you would like to join us at the Healing Hearts Retreat For Widows, sign up now! Early bird pricing ends THIS Saturday March 11, 2023! Get all the deets at https://www.widow180.com/retreat
Email me for questions: jen@widow180.com
On today's episode, we're bringing up a couple of topics that came up in our Widow Squad member meeting this last week, and if you're a widowed mama with kiddos still at home, I know you can relate!
We're talking about the struggles of solo-parenting, working full-time, managing the house, the bills, the extracurricular activities and after school practices, carpooling, AND then not having to share your day with your partner. Not just complaining and venting, but sharing the parenting wins, too.
To all the widowed mamas, I am cheering you on! I'm thinking of you! You got this!
We talk about this and SO MUCH MORE in the Widow Squad online community. Wanna be a part of it? Sign up and join us at https://www.widow180.com/membership
Have you joined our Facebook group yet? Why not?! Here it is: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Please share the podcast with other widows who need some encouragement!
The Healing Hearts Retreat for Widows is happening May 5-7, 2023! Early bird pricing ends in one week on May 11 so sign up now and save your spot! Here's the link: https://www.widow180.com/retreat
I had the pleasure of talking to our returning guest, Laurice Duffy this week on the podcast! It's been 2 years since our first interview on Episode 10 and we had a lot of catching up to do!
Laurice and I chat about:
~ Her time as a caregiver to her husband Kevin, who passed away from ALS in 2018.
~ Her decision to choose life coaching as a way to learn coping skills and eventually help others.
~ How she started the non-profit, The Kindness Matters Mission, that offers scholarships to high school students!
~ How she coaches women and started her own podcast, Aligned and Awakened!
~ How she wrote a book called Raising Hope, that's available now!
You can get her book at https://www.widow180.com/products
Find Laurice on IG: @amindfuljourney.ld
She has 2 Facebook groups: A Mindful Journey and Rise
Watch the FREE video called Kicking Loneliness To The Curb! Go to https://www.widow180.com/lonely
Our in-person retreat is happening May 5-7, 2023! Are you in? Get all the details and sign up at https://www.widow180.com/retreat
Please share the podcast with others! Thank you for listening!
What's a widow to do on the "death-iversary" day...aka the "spirit day" as we call it in the Widow Squad?
This is Episode 4 of the WidowSquad Podcast, a brand new podcast where we introduce a topic, related to widowhood, of course, and share our experience and advice to listeners! I am so excited to be a part of this incredible new podcast with fellow hosts, Kim Murray and Melissa Pierce!
New episodes of The WidowSquad Podcast will be released every Thursday so be sure to subscribe so you don't miss a thing!
In today's episode we chat about:
~ acknowledging the date with family, friends, and kids
~ reflecting on memories that help keep their spirit alive.
~ Embracing the feelings, it's ok to feel sad and to grieve, no matter how much time has passed.
Check out https://www.widowsquadpodcast.com
Also, registration is opening up THIS WEEK for the Healing Hearts Retreat for Widows happening May5-7, 2023! Get all the details and sign up at https://www.widow180.com/retreat
Join us in the WidowSquad community for connection, weekly meeting, and awesome guest speakers, as well as tons of resources and inspiration each month! Go to https://www.widow180.com/membership
Email me: jen@widow180.com
Today is Valentine's Day 2023. It's one of those days, those miletone days, those holidays that we have to face. My intent for this episode was to come up with some helpful tips and strategies to make it through this Valentine's Day and make it a little less hurtful, a little more bearable.
This is a short but sweet list on ways that you can take back control of this day! Make it what you want it to be! We can't stop this day from coming, but we can do whatever we want on this day!
Let me know how Valentine's Day was for you this year. What did you do? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Or better yet, join us in the WidowSquad community and tell us all about it! This is definitely one of those days we can support each other through! Join us at https://www.widow180.com/membership
And DON'T FORGET...our in person retreat is happening in May! Get more info and register at https://www.widow180.com/retreat
If you haven't read the book The Four Agreements: A Toltec Wisdom Book by Don Miguel Ruiz, I highly suggest it! We just finished reading it in the Widow Squad book club. I love its simplicity and reminders to us about what's important in life!
And agreement number 3, Don't Make Assumptions really struck a chord with me. As widows, we assume things about ourselves and about the people around us, resulting in needless suffering!
I hope you found some insights in this episode. Please share it with a friend who needs to hear this message too. Please rate and review the podcast!
Get in on the WidowSquad online community and join our next book club starting soon: https://www.widow180.com/membership
Email me if you would like to share your "widow success story" on the podcast! jen@widow180.com
Have you joined our FREE Facebook group yet? Why not? Here's the link:https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Did someone say FREEBIE? Get the video presentation of Kicking Loneliness To The Curb today! Here's the link: https://www.widow180.com/lonely
This week we continue our conversation with Michelle Scharf as she shares her journey through grief after losing her husband John to cancer.
Here's what we chat about:
~ How within a span of 6 months she lost her husband, became an empty-nester, and turned 50!
~ How she turned to alcohol to stop the pain of grief until a friend intervened.
~How she started her passion project, Relentlessly Resilient podcast with her friend and fellow widow, Jennie.
~The key things that have helped her along the way including: keeping a gratitude journal, yoga, meditation, and prayer.
Find her on IG @relentlesslyresilientpodcast
Find her podcast at www.ksl.com
Join us in the WidowSquad community for friendship and amazing resources at https://widowsquad.com
Got questions OR a story you want to share? Email me at jen@widow180.com
Wanna support the podcast? Become a sponsor at https://www.patreon.com/widow180
and donate as little as $3 per month to keep the podcast going! Thank you!
Michelle Scharf joins us this week on the podcast to share her raw and honest account of losing her husband to cancer. This is Part 1 of a 2 part conversation with Michelle.
On today's episode we talk about:
~ The sweet story of how she met her husband!
~ How she found out he was diagnosed with cancer
~ Her experience and struggle as a caregiver.
~ How her co-workers stepped up to support her.
Be sure to listen next week to the conclusion of the interview with Michelle.
Have you joined our FREE Facebook group yet? Why not? Here's the link to sign up:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Wanna be a part of an amazing online community? We would LOVE to have you! Join the WidowSquad here: https://www.widow180.com/membership
Want to share YOUR "widow success" story on the podcast? email me: jen@widow180.com
Did someone say FREEBIE? Get the Kick Loneliness To The Curb VIDEO presentation today. Go to https://www.widow180.com/lonely
"A ship in harbor is safe, but that's not what ships were built for." This is one of may favorite quotes to get me motivated! It's by Paulo Coehlo, author of the bestselling book, The Alchemist.
This quote has many meanings, but to me it exemplifies how we try to stay safe, tucked away in our own little world, staying out of harms way. The loss of our spouse has left us feeling insecure and vulnerable.
The thing is, it's okay to stay in port for a while, to regroup, to recoup. But we're not meant to stay there forever.
If this episode has gotten you thinking about making some changes, be sure to join the Finding Purpose and Meaning After Loss Program for widows! We're starting this 4 week program THIS MONDAY, January 23, 2023 at 7:30pm EST! Grab you seat today! https://www.widow180.com/purpose
Also, if you have any other quotes you would like to share, let's hear it! email me at jen@widow180.com
Donna Kendrick will never forget the "Omgosh, what just happened?!" moment when she discovered her husband Greg had passed away suddenly in 2013. Donna found herself navigating the confusing world of finances post-loss, and then also felt a calling when she realized that she wanted to change careers to become a certified financial planner for others whose lives are in transition.
We chat about:
~ Donna deciding to go back to school
~ Her biggest struggle in widowhood, figuring out "what's next?"
~ How the Safe Harbor program for grief counseling helped her and her children so much.
~ How she wrote a book that's part memoir/ part financial help for widows. Her book is called A Guide To Widowhood: Navigating the First Three Years.
~ Donna's podcast is called Widow, Wisdom, and Wealth
~ How Donna married her now husband Jim in Graceland and the happy couple is now a blended family of 6!
~ How important it is to wake up every day and ask "How am I going to make the day better for other people? I have an opportunity today. Let's take it!"
You can find Donna at:
https://www.widow-wisdom.com
Email her: donna@widow-wisdom.com
On IG: @widowandwisdom
Don't forget to sign up for the Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss Program For Widows! We're starting Monday January 23, 2023! You know there's a purpose that burns so brightly that nothing in this world can dim it! I want to help you find it!
Sign up at https://www.widow180.com/purpose
Last week in the WidowSquad weekly meeting, we were doing a group exercise and choosing our Word Of The Year. Are you familiar with this exercise? It's a very powerful tool to help us stay motivated and focused throughout the year.
One of our lovely WidowSquad members chose the word PATIENCE. Great word, right?!
She felt like she needed to have more patience with herself. She noticed she was being really hard on herself for "not feeling better by now". This sparked a whole conversation about how this healing process takes time. Grieving takes time. Healing a broken heart takes time.
I hope you enjoy this episode and please share it with a friend! Also leave a rating and review on the podcast and I'll read it on air!
Don't forget to grab your seat in the Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss Program For Widows starting soon! You know you are meant for more! You know you want to make an impact on the world! You know you want to make some big changes in your life! Let's do this together!
Go to https://www.widow180.com/purpose
Email me if you have any questions: jen@widow180.com
On this episode we are talking to Michelle Collins, author, grief educator, yoga and meditation coach. Michelle's husband Glen took his own life in 2016. Michelle talks to us today about the aftermath of the loss and how she is rebuilding her life.
Michelle and I chat about:
~ How she felt enormous guilt and shame after losing Glen
~ How she suffered from PTSD and what that felt like.
~ How she turned to alcohol and drugs to cope.
~ How a meditation retreat at the Chopra Center changed her life!
~ How she became a grief educator through a David Kessler program in 2021
~ How she connected with TAPS and finally felt accepted and supported!
Michelle has written 2 books:
-
Surviving Spouse Or Partner Suicide Loss: A Mindful Guide For Your Journey Through Grief
-
Supporting A Survivor Of Spouse Or Partner Suicide Loss: A Mindful Guide For Co-Journeying Through Grief
Reach Michelle at https://www.inhabitjoy.com
Grab your seat in the Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss Program For Widows! We're starting this 4 week group coaching session on Monday January 23, 2023! Get more details and sign up at https://www.widow180.com/purpose
Email me for questions at jen@widow180.com
Hope is believeing with confidence that good things will happen in the future.
Whatever place you're in right now, whatever you're feeling in this season is right for you. It's where you need to be.
I ask you and encourage you, no matter what you're feeling, no matter the high or the low you're in right now, to move into this new year with hope!
Hope will carry you through this next year.
This episode will tell you why!
Join us in the WidowSquad community for more conversations like this! Go to https://www.widow180.com/membership
Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com
The benefits of reflection are so often overlooked, especially when grieving, when we're feeling like we're just trying to stay afloat. We're so busy adjusting to our new life, our new normal, that we don't tak the time to stop and look at ourselves, not just to praise ourselves, but to see how we're managing it all.
Reflection is a process. You need to slow down. It requires you to get vulnerable. But it's also a process that can lead to valuable insights and even breakthroughs!
Grab a pen and your journal and let's get started answering these powerful questions!
Enjoyed this episode? Please leave a rating and review and I'll read it on the podcast!
If you want to deep dive further into discussions like this one, join us in the WidowSquad Community! Go to https://www.widow180.com/membership
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/
If you have any questions or would like to be interviewed on the podcast, email me at jen@widow180.com
We're starting today's podcast with a quote from Marcus Aurelius and he says "The nearer a man comes to a calm mind, the closer he is to strength." This is an important quote because today's topic on the podcast is anxiety.
This podcast episode covers 3 ways you can manage anxiety during the holidays AND any time of year, for that matter.
If you take away anything from today, I want you to remember this: You have power over the panic! You have the power within you, the strength within you, to calm your mind.
Please be sure to leave us a rating and a review and I'll read it on the podcast and give you a shout-out!
Join our Facebook group for more support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Become a WidowSquad member for community and connection and group coaching sessions at https://www.widow180.com/membership
You are welcome here!
Have a safe and happy holiday!
Today's episode was pulled from clips of interviews I have done in the past 2 years on Widow 180: The Podcast.
I always like to ask my guests how they handle the big milestone dates and holidays. What did they do to get through it? How did they handle the first holiday season as a widow?
And as always, they have some pretty incredible advice to share that I wanted to pass onto you!
If you need extra help this holiday season, be sure to pick up a copy of my book, The Widow's Holiday Guidebook: 45 Days of Self-Reflection, Self-Compassion, And Self-Care.
You can download your copy at https://www.widow180.com/books
Also, if you are struggling with loneliness, you can download the FREE webinar video presentation called Kick Loneliness To The Curb! Get the video at https://www.widow180.com/lonely
And finally, if you would like to be a part of our amazing community of widows, join us at https://widowsquad.com
Anita Coyle's husband Jason died suddenly one night while swimming at a local rec center. Their kids were 12, 8, 5, and 2 years old at the time. Jason was only 42. Just one week later, Anita was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. In today's episode Anita shares some of her biggest struggles in dealing with loss for the past 4 years.
Anita and I chat about:
~ how difficult it is to face the unexpected AND expected grief triggers, like having to work at the same hospital that Jason was taken to the night he passed away.
~ How parenting has been the hardest part of being a widow for Anita
~ How finding healthy coping mechanisms is a must for your own well-being and sanity!
~ How important it is to always have something to look forward to!
~ How Anita partnered up with Mel Shore and created the Widow We Do Now podcast!
~ Anita and Mel have spoken at Camp Widow 5 times!
~ Her biggest piece of advice for widows is to have patience. There's so much time to figure stuff out. There's nothing you can do to speed it up!
To reach Anita you can go to https://www.widowwedonow.com
You can find the Widow We Do Now Podcast on Apple and Spotify!
Need some extra help this holiday season? Get a copy of the book The Widow's Holiday Guidebook today! It's 45 Days of Self-Reflection, Self-Compassion, and Self-Care! Download at https://www.widow180.com/books
Like the podcast? Become a Widow 180 patron and donate for as little as $3 per month to help keep the podcast going! Go to https://www.patreon.com/widow180
Please leave us a rating and review and share the podcast with friend!
You can also become a member of our Widow Squad Community by signing up at https://widowsquad.com
Today we're talking about grief triggers to be aware of during the holiday season!
They can happen anytime, anywhere! But sometimes, we KNOW they are a possibility so we can mentally prepare for them.
Today we break down 5 different grief triggers to be aware of!
Do you have any other ones you want to add to the list? Message me at jen@widow180.com or DM me on Insta @widow_180
You can also join us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Want to become a Widow Squad member? Sign up here : https://widowsquad.com
Need extra help this holiday season? Get a copy of The Widow's Holiday Guidebook: 45 Days of Self-Reflection, Self-Compassion, and Self-Care.
Download your copy here for only $7: https://www.widow180.com/books
Candace Crockett lost her husband Tyler after a short battle with cancer. He was diagnosed in December of 2019 but passed away just weeks later during his first chemo treatment.
Candace and I chat about:
~ How COVID affected her healing time with her kids.
~ How she felt such a profound loss of identity
~ Asking "How am i going to show up for myself?" changed her life
~ How she met other widows and attended a retreat with Never Alone Widows
~ How she had to figure out who she was and what her core values were
~ She discovered that creativity was an important part of her identity
~ How she now hosts workshops with HEARTWell workshops, combining art, meditation, and healing
You can find her on IG @heartwell_workshops
Join the WidowSquad today and get 2 weeks FREE! Our Black Friday special ends tonight at midnight! Go to https://widowsquad.com
Want a copy of The Widow's Holiday Guidebook? Go to https://www.widow180.com/books
When you are suffering the loss of someone in your life and you are genuinely and completely buried in grief, it's pretty damn hard to find anything to be grateful for.
When we feel the overpower of grief, we can get into a gratitiude slump.
Here's a way to uplevel your gratitude game and REALLY feel the emotion of gratitude again!
Wanna talk about more important "widow" topics? Get into the WidowSquad and let's chat! We're running a promotion this week where you get 2 weeks FREE! There's no better time than now, when the holidays feel stressful, than to get in here for some amazing group support!
Go to https://widowsquad.com
If groups aren't your thing but you still need some help this holiday season, get a copy of my book The Widow's Holiday Guidebook today! It's 45 days of self-reflection, self-compassion, and self-care! AND it's only $7! Go to https://www.widow180.com/books
The holidays are approaching us quickly! Have you made plans yet? Do you have an idea of what you want to do and where you want to go? With all of the changes that widows are faced with, keeping holiday traditions can feel very comforting...or not!
In this episode we are talking about the 3 P's to remember this holiday season!
These P's are taken from the chapters of my book, The Widow's Holiday Guidebook: 45 Days of Self-Reflection, Self-Compassion, and Self-Care! If you would like a copy to download, click here:
https://www.widow180.com/books
I hope you find this episode helpful! If you enjoy it, please share it with a friend!
Need extra help this holiday season? Join us in the WidowSquad community for support and encouragement! https://www.widow180.com/membership
Sissi's husband Mark took his own life in May 2020, just 2 months after Sissi lost her mom to cancer. Sissi had to manage her compound grief plus raise her two young daughters on her own.
Sissi and I talk about:
~ the guilt she felt after her husband's suicide
~ How you can allow grief to be your only story...or not!
~ how becoming a certified conscious parent taught her to hold space for her kids and their pain
~ How you can practice conscious grieving by doing the work. She recommends exercise, journaling, and meditation!
~ How recognizes what it is exactly that we're grieving can help us heal!
~ how she became a grief educator and now does coaching to help other widows!
You can work with Sissi at https://www.sissibcoaching.com
Love this episode? Please share it with a friend and tell them about our free Facebook community at Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck!
Need extra help this holiday season? Download the Widow's Holiday Guidebook today! Go to https://www.widow180.com/books
Also, I encourage everyone to join the WidowSquad community to "do the grief work"! We provide resources, widow workshops, weekly meetings, group coaching all to help you heal through grief and not have to do it alone! Join us at https://widowsquad.com
Today we are talking all about HEART Convos and why they are so important in our relationships and friendships.
As widows, we find our lives ever-changing, ever-evolving, including our relationships with our friends. Sometimes we find those nearest and dearest to us suddenly backing out of our lives after we lose our husbands.
This episode focuses on the work of Kristen "KB" Newton, a connection coach, who helps others have healthier, better friendships!
Check out KB on IG @heart_convos
Join us in the WidowSquad community today! We would LOVE to have you!
https://widowsquad.com
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast and share it with others!
Support the podcast and become a patron by donating as little as $3! Go to www.patreon.com/widow180
Amanda's husband Brian was diagnosed with bulbar ALS and passed away just 3 months later. Amanda has been picking up the pieces of their broken life since losing him in September 2020. But, she is determined to live a life honoring Brian by serving others and turning her pain into purpose.
Amanda and I chat about:
~ Saying the right things to your small kiddos when it comes to the subject of death and dying
~ how it's never too late to get help/therapy for moving through grief
~ how sitting with your grief ultimately heals you
~ how surrendering to uncertainty feels freeing!
~ how life can lead you back to unexpected love again!
~ how we can carry our loved ones with us into this next chapter!
You can find more info at www.griefshare.org and www.neveralonewidows.com
Get in on our awesome WidowSquad community!! We're just getting started!! We have so many cool things lined up...amazing guest speakers, workshops, a book club, plans for a WidowSquad retreat in 2023! This is the place to be for friendship, resources, fun, laughs, all of it! Grab a glass of wine and hang out with us every week! Join us at https://widowsquad.com
JoAnne Funch lost her husband Alan suddenly after an injury at work, leaving her to raise their daughter and run the family business. JoAnne talks to us today on the podcast about:
~ juggling parenting and running a business!
~not allowing yourself the time to grieve
~ not having anywhere to turn to for financial advice and feeling that frustration!
~ moving across the country and starting a new life!
~ becoming a board member for the non-profit Wings For Widows!
~ how to find ways to move forward in life!
For financial help, go to www.wingsforwidows.org
Find them on IG @wingsforwidows
Don't forget to sign up and join us in the Widow Squad community! We would LOVE to have you be a part of this amazing group! This is a special community for widows to learn, share, and grow so that they can create a life they love and deserve!
Join us at https://widowsquad.com
We meet on Zoom each and every week! Join us for respurces and guest speakers and more!
Hands down, the NUMBER 1 side effect of grief is LONELINESS!
This is why we wanted to talk to you guys about it! So, I've collaborated with Kim Murray of Widow 411 and Melissa Pierce of Filled With Gold for a presentation called Kicking Loneliness To The Curb!
It happens LIVE tonight October 12, 2022 at 7PM EST!
Sign up here:
https://view.flodesk.com/pages/633de8706028d4d1c71edd94
See you tonight!
Lindsey's husband Ronnie had been suffering mental illness and battling depression for years. On February 13, 2020, he took his own life.
Lindsey and I talk about:
~ How Lindsey tried everything she could to help Ronnie.
~ How having important conversations around mental illness is crucial.
~ How she reached a turning point and realized that nothing she said or did made any difference with the outcome.
~ How she had a sense of relief after he had passed, knowing he was at peace.
~ How the term "Suicide Prevention" kinda makes her cringe!
~ How she has formed lasting connections through and organization called Never Alone Widows!
You can find them on Instagram at @NeverAloneWidows
Also, be sure to join our LIVE FREE Zoom meet-up on Wednesday October 12, 2022 at 7pm EST called "Kick Loneliness To The Curb"!
Sign up at :
https://www.widow180.com/lonely
See you on Wednesday!
Your voice is your story and you have a story to tell! Telling our stories transforms our lives!
Here are 10 reasons why every widow should write and journal after losing their spouse!
Join our 4 week Rediscovery Through Writing! Creative Grief Writing Program for widows starting October 3 2022!
Get more info and sign up here:
https://www.widow180.com/rediscovery
For questions, you can email me at jen@widow180.com
Debbie lost her husband George after a 4 year battle with cancer. Debbie found herself isolated and lonely and trying to create a new life that made her feel confident and proud of the person she was becoming.
In today's episode, Debbie and I chat about:
~ how she tackled the first few months after losing George
~How joining groups and meet-ups opened up new and lasting friendships for her.
~ How taking baby steps into a new, uncertain life is important not to get overwhelmed
~How writing became a key piece in her healing
~ How she decided to go back to school to get her Master's Degree!
~ How dating has it's challenges in the modern world!
~ How creating a space of her own and moving into her new home has transformed her!
Debbie's new book is called "Available As Is: A Midlife Widow's Search For Love" and it's out now!
Get your copy here at https://www.widow180.com/products
You can find Debbie at debbieweissauthor on IG
Also on Facebook at Debbie Weiss
Don't forget to sign up today to join our Rediscovery Through Writing: A Creative Grief Writing Program for Widows! We start next Monday October 3 at 7:30pm EST!
We meet for 4 weeks of live Zoom calls in a group setting to journal, write, create, and reconnect with your authentic self!
Sign up here: https://www.widow180.com/rediscovery
Are you being nice to yourself? Are you treating yourself the same way you would treat your best friend if she were in your situation?
As widows, we put so much pressure on oursleves to have all of the answers right away after we lose our spouse. We are thrown into a new life of unwanted change and we expect ourselves to know exactly what to do. And then we berate ourselves when we don't have the answers!
In this episode, we are using references from self-compassion expert, Kristin Neff, on how we can be kinder to ourselves.
She talks about 3 components to self-compassion that we can incorporate into our lives when feeling times of stress.
You can find more info on Kristen Neff at: www.selfcompassion.org
Also, doors are open now for our NEW program, Rediscovery Through Writing! A Creative Grief Writing Program For Widows. We're starting Monday October 3 at 7:30pm EST.
This is 4 weeks of live Zoom calls with group coaching, creative writing, exercises, guided journaling, poetry to help you work through the grief and discover who you are again!
Get more info and sign up at https://www.widow180.com/rediscovery
Email me if you have anyquestions or comments at jen@widow180.com
Like the podcast? Become a sponsor for as little as $3 to keep the podcast going! Go to https://www.patreon.com/widow180
Do you ever notice sequences of numbers that keep appearing for you? Maybe you see 4:44 on the clock all the time. Or maybe you see 444 on the license plate in front of you. These are called angel numbers, messages of support from our loved ones!
Do you ever get signs from your loved ones? Maybe you keep seeing cardinals outside your window. Or butterflies. Or rainbows. They are still with us! They are always sending us these little signals that they are here and supporting us!
Join me today as I talk to Kim Murray, blogger and widow, about these incredible signs from our loved ones!
Kim has also created a new course called "The Ultimate Survival Guide For Widows" to help with the practical business of post-loss tasks that can be very confusing!
Take a look and get more details about the guide:
https://widow411.podia.com/a/ca0y3
You can also get more details at https://www.widow180.com/products
Check out Kim's blog post about signs from loved ones:
https://widow411.com/the-secret-to-finally-seeing-signs-from-your-dead-spouse/
Do you see angel numbers or signs? Tell me all about it!
Email me at jen@widow180.com
Or join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
In this week's episode, I talk to widow and author Kyomi O'Connor, who lost her husband Patrick in 2016 to metastatic melanoma. Today she shares some lessons for healing and centering yourself after trauma.
Kyomi and I chat about:
~ Ironically, her husband Patrick did cancer research for a living and was later diagnosed himself.
~How turning to Buddhism was life-changing for her.
~ How draining it is being a caregiver
~Buddhist beliefs around illness and loss
~ Ways to find comfort by grounding yourself
~ How being vulnerable helps us heal.
~ How writing her book was such an emotional release for her.
Kyomi's book is coming out September 6, 2022!
Her book is called "A Sky Of Infinite Blue: A Japanese Immigrant's Search For Home And Self"
You can get her book at https://www.widow180.com/products
Also, be sure to join our Facebook group Widow 180 Community!
Loving the podcast? Become a podcast Patron sponsor and donate as little as $3 per month to help keep the podcast going! Go to https://www.patreon.com/widow180
A couple of weeks ago I did an episode on tapping into our intuition to help guide us through life and make better decisions. Well, I thought of one more thing I wanted to add to that about making tough decisions! Hence, this BONUS Tuesday episode!
This is a simple thing we can do when we're struggling in an indecisive moment!
Check out these 3 examples and how applying this technique can be so helpful!
Also, don't forget that tomorrow August 31, 2022 is the last last day to get our updated Dating After Loss Course For Widows at the $97 price. After that, the price goes back up!
Need help getting back into the dating scene?? Has it been a while?? Not sure where to even start??
Get this course! It will help! https://www.widow180.com/courses
Loving the podcast? Become a Widow 180 Patron and donate as little as $3 to keep the podcast going! Go to https://www.patreon.com/widow180
If you follow me on Instagram you've probably seen one of my highlight stories that I post where I take polls from you guys! These are always so fun because I love getting feedback from you and hearing from you!
In today's episode, I've compiled all of my poll questions about dating and put them together here with the results!
Follow me on Insta: @widow_180
Join our Facebook group: Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
Get our Dating After Loss course now while it's only $97 until August 31, 2022! After that, the price goes back up!
https://www.widow180.com/courses
Bethany's husband Eric was diagnosed with a rare sarcoma in 2020 and passed away 11 months later. She shares her unique journey through love and loss and love again on today's episode!
Bethany and I chat about:
~ how her faith got her through everything!
~ Stepping back from work situations if you can, to regroup
~ making big changes in the first year!
~ Eric's prophecies and predictions for what was to come for Bethany and their family!
~ Her divinely orchestrated love story with her now husband Keith!
~ How to NOT let the word "widow" affect you!
~ "Bless and release" other people's opinions!
~ Letting other people know what you need and accepting the help!
You can find Bethany on:
Facebook at Bethany Ann Ashabraner
Insta: @bethanyashabraner
Her website: www.bethanyashabraner.net
Don't forget our Dating After Loss onlince course is only $97 through the end of August! Need help overcoming your dating roadblocks? Need help with online dating? Need help with finding out if you're even ready to date? This course is for you!
Get it now before prices go back up!
https://www.widow180.com/courses
Are you in our Facebook group? If not, here's the link to join!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
We also have a new feature on our website with a list of cool and helpful products for widows and widowers! I've met some amazing authors in the last 2 years and I have lots of books and resources listed here!
Go to https://www.widow180.com/products
Also, if you love the podcast and want to continue supporting us, become a patron! You can donate as little as $3 per month! Go to www.patreon.com/widow180 to sign up!
It's an unsettling feeling after losing your spouse and having to rely on just yourself to decide EVERYTHING! We have to learn to trust ourselves again. We can learn how to rely on our own inner voice, our own intuition to help guide us through life! We show you how to do that in today's episode!
We need to pay particular attention to how our intuition "speaks" to us!
This is all about keeping our hearts and minds open to receiving that help when we need it most!
Here are 5 ways to tap into our intuition, learn to trust ourselves again, and be confident in those decisions!
For more help Rebuilding Confidence after loss, I encourage you to get our online course to help! It's only $24! Get the course at https://www.widow180.com/confidence
And remember that all of our courses are included if you join our Widow Connection Community for just $33 per month! Be a part of the support and community by going to https://www.widow180.com/membership
Check out episode 46 for more chat about making tough decisions. And episode 122 for strategies for being more confident!
Support the podcast by donating as little as $3 to keep the podcast going! Go to https://www.patreon.com/widow180
I LOVE a good love story! And this is one you gotta hear! Carrie Gardache-Thompson joins us on the podcast this week to share her dating experience as a widow! Carrie also recently took another walk down the aisle and married her new honey, Scott Thompson!
Carrie and I chat about:
~ praying for love in your life
~ how to handle weird dating moments!
~ when to introduce your kiddos to your new man!
~ not caring what other people think!
~ How you CAN love two people at once!
Need help with dating? Get our new UPDATED Dating course for widows, Dating after loss: A 4 Step WISH Program for widows and widowers looking to find love again! Get the course at https://www.widow180.com/courses
The entire course is only $97 this month, AUGUST 2022!
Let's talk more about dating! Join our membership community! This amazing group of ladies meets everys ingle week for group coaching, laughs, and more! www.widow180.com/membership
Support the podcast! You can donate as little as $3 to keep the podcast going! Sign up at www.patreon.com/widow180
It's always best to prepared, ESPECIALLY, when it comes to dating!
In this episode we share ONE THING you must do before you go out on date!
Get our comprehensive dating course for widows at www.widow180.com/courses
The price is only $97 for the month of August 2022!
Love the podcast? Become a Widow 180 patron and donate as little as $3 to keep the podcast going!
Go to www.patreon.com/widow180
Please leave us a kind rating and review! It helps the podcast get seen by more widows who need it!
This was such a fun interview with Ryane Moates of the YouTube Channel, Ryane To The Rescue! Ryane lost her husband John in May 2021 after a horrible biking accident.
In today's episode Ryane and I chat about:
~remaining hopeful during a time of chaos
~How Ryane coped with the reality of the loss of her husband.
~ those breaking point days when EVERYTHING goes wrong!
~ realizing that YOU are responsible for taking care of EVERYTHING!
~ the birth of the idea of her YouTube Channel, Ryane To The Rescue!
~ getting "divine downloads" that help and inspire us to move forward!
~ how Ryane wants to show other women that they are powerful and capable!
You can find her everywhere at Ryane To The Rescue!
Check out her channel and hit SUBSCRIBE:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeZNDTBHgtJD6RoZmIrwfRg
Also, don't forget to sign up for our FREE workshop, the "Where Can I Meet A Guy??" Workshop For Widows happening August 1, 2022!
Go to https://widow180.ck.page/meetaguy
Love the podcast? Thanks! You can support us with a donation as little as $3 to keep the podcast going!
Go to www.patreon.com/widow180
Please leave us a rating and review! It helps the podcast get seen by other widows around the world!
This week's special guest is author, speaker, widow, mom, Susan Hannifin-MacNab. Susan lost her husband Brent in a car accident ten years ago. In today's episode she and I talk about:
~How Camp Widow was a game-changer for her in terms of healing!
~ How she started the San Diego chapter of Soaring Spirits International.
~ How she researched tools and techniques to help both her and her son, which she later compiled into a book!
~ Her book is The A 2 Z Healing Toolbox: A Practical Guide For Navigating Grief And Trauma With Intention
~ what grief has taught her and how much her life has changed in the last ten years.
~ How time plays tricks on us!
~How grief and trauma often overlap
Get Susan's book at www.widow180.com/products
Reach out to Susan for coaching at www.A2Zhealingtoolbox.com
SIGN UP and save your seat for our FREE Workshop...The "Where Can I Meet A Guy??" Workshop For Widows is August 1, 2022!
Sign up here: http://widow180.ck.page/meetaguy
Join our incredible community, The Widow Connection Community, at www.widow180.com/membership
Become a Widow 180 Patron! Help support the podcast by donating as little as $3, cuz every little bit helps! www.patreon.com/widow180
Please leave us a rating and review!
Here's the link to the FREE "Where Can I Meet A Guy?" Workshop For Widows...
http://widow180.ck.page/meetaguy
Workshop date: August 1, 2022
In today's episode, we're talking about a common thought that might stop you from dating again!
But, you don't have to let it!
Let me know your thoughts on this! What's your biggest take-away from this episode? I would love to hear from you!
Email me at jen@widow180.com or
Join our Facebook group for discussions and updates at Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck.
Check out the other Widow 180 episodes about dating...episodes 80, 77, 30, 31, 32, and 69!
This week we featured guest Clarissa Moll, widow, author, speaker, podcaster, and mama of 4 kiddos!
Clarissa became a widow in July 2019, when her husband Rob died while hiking in Mt. Rainier Park, leaving her and her young children behind.
While homeschooling Clarissa began to pour herself into writing in an effort to process her grief. Her new book, Beyond The Darkness: A Gentle Guide For Living With Grief and Thriving After Loss was just released July 5 2022!
You can reach Clarissa at www.clarissamoll.com
You can purchase Clarissa's book and Rob's book at www.widow180.com/products
We would love to have you in our Widow Connection Community! Sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
Loving the podcast? Please leave a rating and review and share the podcast with a friend who needs it!
You can also support us by becoming a Widow 180 Patron, you can donate as little as $3! Every little bit helps keep the podcast going!
Sign up at www.patreon.com/widow180
Trouble sleeping?
I'm not surprised if you said "YES!"
This is the most common, HORRIBLE side effect of grief that most widows suffer with.
But there are some sleeping hacks that might work for you! Give these a try and let me know if they work!
Try the Apps:
White Noise and Noise Machine
Join our Widow Connection Community at www.widow180.com/membership to meet weekly via Zoom for group coaching and guest speakers!
Get our new confidence course at www.widow180.com/confidence
Become a Widow 180 Patron and donate as little as $3 to keep the podcast going! www.patreon.com/widow180
This is one of the simplest ways to help heal a grieving heart.
Maybe you've tried it, maybe not. But this powerful, healthy coping mechanism is what got me through the first months, if not years after losing my husband.
Give it a try!
Would you like to join our membership community of widows who get together every single week for group coaching, guest speakers, peer support, help and advice? We would LOVE to have you there! www.widow180.com/membership
Have you completed the Summer Escape Challenge? If so, tell me about it! I'll give you a shout-out on the podcast!
We need to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be! Get the new online course, Rebuilding Confidence After Loss for only $24! www.widow180.com/confidence
Become a widow180 patron member! Every little donation helps us keep this podcast going! Start with as little as $3! THANK YOU! www.patreon.com/widow180
Nora Plesent, author of the book Be Still And Soar, was a guest speaker for our membership community, the Widow Connection Community several weeks ago. This was such an eye-opening conversation that I wanted to share it with you all today on the podcast!
Nora is a meditation and wellness coach who has made it her life purpose to help women with stress and overwhelm. She was the PERFECT person to talk to our widow community and give us some incredibly useful tips and tools for dealing with overwhelm.
Her book, Be Still And Soar is available on Amazon now!
If you would like to work with Nora, you can reach her at www.noraplesent.com
If you would like to have access to these amazing lectures with our guest speakers, I encourage you to join our community! Sign up and get more info at www.widow180.com/membership.
Do you feel a lack of confidence since losing your spouse? Want to feel empowered again? We have a NEW online course with 10 strategies to help you build confidence and boost self-esteem after loss. Go to www.widow180.com/confidence
Have you joined our Facebook group yet? Why not!? Here's the link:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Like the podcast?? Become a sponsor and help us keep the podcast going! Donate as little as $3 cuz every little bit helps! Go to www.patreon.com/widow180
It was such a treat talking to our guest this week, Bevin Farrand, creator of the Take The DAMN Trip movement! Bevin's husband Mark passed away unexpectedly two weeks after they took an epic trip to France.
Bevin and I chat about:
~ helping a grieving friend and asking for help when you need it.
~ how she created the DAMN framework as a way to live and find purpose.
~ how she decided to move forward with IVF and now has a baby girl added to her family!
~ her method for dealing with stress and anxiety
~ how she's writing a book!
~ how powerful it is to live in the moment!
~ take micro-actions to get results!
Grab the FREE TRAINING at www.dothedamnthing.com
Find Bevin on IG @bevinfarrand
Did you know we have a YouTube channel? It's called Widow 180: The Channel! Go check it out! We post weekly videos...here's the latest:
https://youtu.be/9TohzeRUQAY
If you're struggling with moving forward into this next chapter of life with confidence, I can help! These 10 strategies are designed to help you build confidence and boost self-esteem after loss, and they work! Get the self-paced online course at www.widow180.com/confidence
Join our amazing community called the Widow Connection Community where you'll get peer support, group coaching, awesome guest speakers, online courses and resources, and more!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
Support us on Patreon for as little as $3!! Your donations help keep this podcast going! www.patreon.com/widow180
On Today's episode we're talking about 2 simple but powerful strategies that will make widows feel more confident!
These are 2 lessons from my BRAND NEW course, How To Rebuild Confidence After Loss: Guide For Widows!
I know what it's like to doubt your every move and every choice. I know how it feels to get so frustrated with yourself for not being able to make decisions.
I want to help you gain that confidence back! I want you to have that self-assurance again!
This confidence course gives you the tools and the strategies to be able to push the self-doubt aside and walk into your new life with confidence!
Get more info and get the course at www.widow180.com/confidence.
Join our amazing membership community at www.widow180.com/membership.
Become a Widow180 Patron at www.patreon.com/widow180.
Rachel Pope joins us this week on the podcast. She is the founder of the online community Gifts From Grief and author of the book, Gifts From Grief. She joins us today to share her positive attitude, her insights on grief, some pearls of wisdom, and some practical strategies on how we can cope with grief!
Rachel and I chat about:
~ her experience with grief throughout her life, first losing her dad to cancer, then her brother in a car accident, then her husband to the same bowel cancer that killed her dad.
~ how we distract ourselves from grief and emotions by staying too busy.
~ How her book, Gifts From Grief, was created after she formed her online community.
~ How she discovered the Grief Recovery Method for healing and decided to become certified to help others.
~ How to honor our loved ones
~ How we can know the right things to say to widows and to children who are grieving
~ What are some common "widow myths"
~ How fear of being hurt again stops us from pursuing another relationship
You can find her book Gifts From Grief on www.amazon.com.au
You can reach Rachel on Insta @giftsfromgrief
She works 1:1 with clients virtually and in person.
If you would like to join our amazing community of widows who are passionate about moving forward with life, go to www.widow180.com/membership.
We meet weekly via Zoom and have amazing guest speakers joining us each and every month!
Support the podcast! Go to www.patreon.com/widow180 and donate to keep the podcast going! We appreciate you listening!
Leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Do the Summer Escape Challenge! Post a pic on our Facebook group Widow 180 Community or on IG @widow_180 and I'll give you a shout-out on the podcast!
This week's episode is talking all about ESCAPISM and how this word can have a negative connotation. However, escapism can also be a way to turn to healthy coping strategies, like reading, dancing, or travel.
In this episode, we hear from several widows how they've used travel as a main tool in their toolbox of healing through grief!
I am proposing a SUMMER CHALLENGE to all of you listeners out there!
The first challenge is to take a solo day trip to a place you've never been before. Take some pics and tag me! I'm on Instagram @widow_180!
Tell us about your adventures in our Facebook group, Widow 180 Community. Here's the link to join:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Join our Widow Connection Community and tell us all about your trip! www.widow180.com/membership
The second challenge is to spend one night out on a trip on your own! Leave on a Saturday and return on Sunday! Baby steps! Be brave! I'm cheering you on every step of the way!
Post a pic and tag me!
If you complete this challenge, I'll give you a shout-out on the podcast for being a total badass!
Have fun!
This episode was inspired by our awesome, hilarious membership community that cracks me up! I just love each and every person in this group!
In our meeting last week, a discussion was started about how exhausting grief is and then the conversation snowballed because we are all feeling the effects of grief and we want to know that this is normal!
And I am here to say, you are are definitely not alone!
Here is YET ANOTHER reason why we get so exhausted by grief.
And here was my solution to fixing it.
Hope you find it helpful! Let me know if you can relate! I would love to hear from you. Email me at jen@widow180.com
Join our amazing group of widows in the Widow Connection Community at www.widw180.com/membership
AND don't forget to register now for our Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss Program For Widows! Registration ends in two days! Session starts Monday May 23, 2022! Hope to see you there! Register at www.widow180.com/purpose
Jessica's husband Jay had an aneurysm while driving home from work on May 1, 2020. He passed away the next day.
Jess had just given birth to their son Tommy 6 weeks before.
In today's interview, Jess and I chat about:
~ funeral plans in the height of COVID
~ navigating grief and having an infant at the same time!
~ Being in the moment and being grateful for what you do have.
~ The struggles that you face when going back to work!
~ talking to mediums and seeing signs from loved ones!
~ How Year 2 can be harder than Year 1 of widowhood.
~ Giving a speech to 200 people for the foundation, Wall Street Cares.
~ How being in the Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss Program changed her attitude, her perspective and her life!
You can find out more about Wall Street Cares at www.wallstreetcares.com
SIGN UP TODAY for the Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss Program For Widows! Go to www.widow180.com/purpose
Want more info about our amazing monthly membership community? Go to www.widow180.com/membership
Join our Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
This was an incredible interview with special guest Maya Tyler, author, speaker, and life coach. Maya lost her husband Jason very unexpectedly. She shares her story of how she was able to rebuild her life and find purpose again.
We chat about:
~ how our faith is tested after loss
~ advocating for your kids to get them the help they need through the school system
~ How to fight and manage debilitating anxiety
~ The power of asking yourself the question "Who do I want to be next?"
~ Maya wrote a best-selling book called "Bounce Back Better: How To Win After Great Loss"
~ Maya became a certified life coach and created programs and courses to help those after loss.
~ Maya found love again and started a new life with a man named Danny! They've also added a baby girl to the family!
You can find Maya on IG @thebouncebackwidow
On Facebook at: Finding Next You
Go to www.widowsdobounceback.com to get info on the programs and courses!
Become a Patreon Partner and support the podcast! Go to www.patreon.com/widow180 to support us! Donations start at just $3 and every little bit helps to keep the podcast going!
Join our incredible, supportive widow community for group coaching, laughs, journaling, guests and more! Go to www.widow180.com/membership
Jen's husband Bob passed away after a 2 year battle with cancer. Bob was a hospice doctor, so the subject of death and dying were not uncommon between them. In today's episode, Jen shares the lessons she learned from Bob and tells us how her journey as a caregiver and now a widow, led her to create the award-winning book, The Hospice Doctor's Widow: A Journal.
In this episode Jen and I chat about:
~ having a balance between hope and preparation for the worst case scenario
~ Getting messages from our loved ones!
~ How end of life conversations are necessary!
~ HOW TO have those scary end of life conversations!
~ How Jen started a journal when Bob got sick to help her cope with processing his terminal illness.
~ Jen's book The Hospice Doctor's Widow has won 4 awards!
You can reach Jen and get her book at www.hospicedoctorswidow.com
HERE'S THAT FREEBIE RESOURCE FOR YOU: 275 Interests, Hobbies, and Ways To Make An Impact In This World!
https://widow180.ck.page/impact
I hope this podcast is offering some help and hope to you! If you would like to donate to the podcast and keep it going, we would SO greatly appreciate it!!
Become a Patreon Partner and donate as little as $3.33 at:
www.patreon.com/widow180
Thank you for listening!
The Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss: Program For Widows just wrapped up, but it's coming again soon!
Here are some examples of the big, beautiful, audacious goals and dreams that came out of this group!
Are you feeling stuck? Don't know which direction to go? Get this GIANT extensive list of 275 Interests, Hobbies, And Ways To Make An Impact In This World!
Let this list spark some interest in you and inspire you to get started on a new and exciting path in life!
Let me know which ones stick out for you!
Get the list here: https://widow180.ck.page/impact
Treva Runyan lost her husband Jeff in a car accident 5 years ago. Her world was turned upside down and suddenly she was raising their 3 children on her own.
In this interview Treva and I chat about:
~ the biggest struggles for grieving mamas
~ learning to let go of control over things we can't control!
~ allowing others to help us
~ accepting loss and recognizing that there is a plan and a purpose for you after loss
~ gaining confidence by doing things you've never done before!
~ how she started a local widow support group to connect other widows and make them feel less alone
~ starting a new life with a new love!
~ making sure you grieve the way that feels right to you!
You can reach Treva at www.trevakuyper.com and also on Facebook and Instagram at Not Just A Widow
Her Coffee And Comfort group meets in Southern Oregon every month!
If you're looking for support, you don't have to do this alone! Join our membership community, The Widow Connection Community! We meet weekly via Zoom! Get more info on meetings and guest speakers at:
www.widow180.com/membership
Please leave a rating and review of the podcast! It is greatly appreciated! Thank you for listening!
What exactly is a "grief hangover"? It is real. And unfortunately, no amount of Advil will help this particular type of hangover.
With another holiday approaching, I thought it would be appropriate to address the "grief hangover" phenomenon that happens when we crash after anniversary dates or holidays.
This episode also serves as a reminder to do what you need to do, be aware of what your body needs, give yourself permission to have boundaries with others, and go easy on yourself!
Join our amazing community at www.widow180.com/membership
Get extra support through our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Check out www.filledwithgold.org to order a beautiful subscription box for you or for a friend! Use coupon code WIDOW180 to get 50% off your first box!
Is anxiety really good for us? YES! Lemme explain.
In this episode, we discuss the "optimal anxiety pathway" where we first feel the overwhelming anxiety of grief, followed by a leveling off into an anxiety-neutral state for a while, and finally transitioning into an optimal anxiety condition.
This episode defines what a comfort zone is and why we need to get out of it!
Check out Jay Shetty's Podcast: On Purpose.
Getting a subscription box delivered to your doorstep every month is THE BEST!
Get yours or get one for a friend at www.filledwithgold.org and use coupon code WIDOW180 to get 50% off your first box!
Shipping is FREE in the U.S.
Haven't joined out Facebook group yet? It's Widow 180 Community!
We're on IG: @widow_180
Join our awesome membership community where we meet every Wednesday evening at 7pm EST for conversation and comfort and coaching! Plus amazing guest speakers and more!
Go to www.widow180.com/membership
This is Part 2 of my interview with Marni Henderson of Sunrise Retreats. We are continuing our open and honest conversation of life after losing her husband Tyler to glioblastoma.
We chat about:
~ 3 crucial things we need in order to heal
~ her calling in her heart to start doing retreats for widows
~ finding love again and how it IS POSSIBLE to love two people at the same time!
~ ALMOST becoming a nun!
~ how loss affects so many aspects of our life
~ exploring life after loss to find your right path to fulfillment!
You can find more information and reach Marni at:
www.sunriseretreat.org and www.coalescediscovery.com
Check out Filled With Gold Subscription Boxes at www.filledwithgold.org
Use coupon code WIDOW180 for 50% off your first box! FREE SHIPPING in the U.S.! It's the perfect gift of comfort!
Join our amazing weekly community group at www.widow180.com/membership
Please share the podcast and leave an awesome rating and review!
Thank you for listening!
This is Part 1 of my interview with Marni Henderson of Sunrise Retreats. Marni lost her husband Tyler to glioblastoma several years ago. She felt a calling to support other widows through running retreats.
In Part 1 of the interview, we talk about:
~ Tyler's diagnosis
~ An unforgettable, bittersweet Make-A-Wish Day for the family
~ Having a "no filter" phase of widowhood!
~ Everyone has a survival mechanism
~ Getting a tattoo!
~ Awesome in-laws
~ How the biggest struggle as a solo-parent is being so helpless and not being able to take away your child's pain and hurt.
Stay tuned for next week's episode (part 2)!
Be sure to join our Facebook group: Widow 180 Community
If you would like to be a part of our amazing community of women, getting supported every week, I encourage you to join the Widow Connection Community!
Get more information and sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
When we go through the experience of losing a spouse, we're forced to re-think so many aspects of life.
We're left asking ourselves "Well, what now?"
This is where we need to take the time to reflect, to process, to re-identify with who we are and what we ant to do with our lives.
If you want help and support in finding your passion and purpose again, I encourage you to sign up for our new program!
We're starting this Sunday March 20, 2022 at 7:30pm EST!
Registration ends in 2 days!
Go to www.widow180.com/purpose to sign up and save your seat!
I hope to see you on Sunday!
Please share the podcast and leave a kind rating and review for us! I would appreciate it!
Carmen Ordonez is our guest this week on the podcast! She lost her husband Fernando in October 2015 after a battle with cancer. She was left to raise their young son, Andy on her own.
In our interview Carmen and I chat about:
~ Faith keeping her going as a caregiver
~ Balancing grieving and parenting...when is a good time to cry?!
~ Having hope that everything will be okay in the end and surrendering to what life brings you
~ Learning to be content on your own.
~ How becoming a widow changes your perspective
~ How she found love again and started a family with her now-husband, Julio
~How long-distance dating can actually be a good thing!
~ How she's been able to connect with other widows through social media.
Don't forget to sign up today and save your spot in our new program, Finding Purpose and Meaning After Loss! We're starting Sunday March 20 at 7:30PM EST!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/purpose
And I would love for you to be a part of our amazing widow community! We meet every Wednesday at 7:00pm EST!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
~
After suffering loss, you may find there is a clear distinction between the "before" and "after" versions of YOU!
You have changed.
Grief has changed you.
That's the discussion this week on the podcast.
There are 2 excerpts highlighted in today's episode:
One from Elisabeth Kubler-Ross and one from Cara Hope Clark, author of the book Widow's Moon.
Have you joined our amazing membership community yet? We meet every Wednesday night at 7pm EST for amazing discussions like this one!
Sign up at: www.widow180.com/membership
And I would love to help you find your purpose! My new program is open for registration now! Let's find what lights you up and ignites passion in your life again!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/purpose
Am I going crazy?? Do I have some kind of impairment?? What is wrong with me??
NO, you're not crazy. I promise. You're grieving. This is normal.
Last week I was talking to our group members in the Widow Connection Community about their struggle of the week and their happiest moment of the week.
Here are a couple of the answers I got.
It was an interesting insight into human emotion!
If you would like to be a part of our amazing community of widows, we would LOVE to have you!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
We meet every Wednesday at 7pm EST via Zoom! I'll see you on the inside!
Also, the Finding Purpose And Meaning After Loss - Program For Widows is starting in a few weeks! Are you ready to start living the life you want?
Are you ready to find what sparks your passion?
Are you ready to find purpose and fulfillment in life again?
This 4 week program will get you started on a meaningful path of life after loss!
Save your spot today!
Go to www.widow180.com/purpose
On April 19, 2012 Hope's life was changed forever when she came home to find that her husband Claude had taken his own life.
In today's interview, she walks us through her life with her husband leading up to his passing and then how her life has been evolving since then.
She talks about:
~ watching her husband decline emotionally and physically
~ feeling helpless
~ feeling relief after he passed away because he was no longer suffering
~ coping with trauma
~ harnessing the power of grief as a catalyst for awakening and transformation
~ being called to write a book about her experience
~ Writing the book "Widow's Moon" and what that meant to her
~ Encouraging other widows with her words
You can reach Hope and purchase the book at www.carahopeclark.com or www.widowsmoon.com
Have you joined our Facebook group yet?
Here's the link:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Join our amazing membership community! We meet every Wednesday night! Here's the link:
www.widow180.com/membership
Natalie Reid-Knutson lost her husband Wayne suddenly after a family vacation in 2018. She was left to raise their 3 boys and put the pieces back together of their broken life. But Natalie realizes that this life is short and we are not to waste one precious day!
On the show today, she shares her passion for helping other widows.
We talk about:
~ serving others to take away your own pain
~ How she just opened a grief retreat home for widows
~ How she wrote a One-Woman Show called "How To Live A Great Story: Maintaining Your Faith When The Chapters Are Re-Written"
~ ways to help a grieving friend
~ How she coped with the loss of her husband
~ Dating as a widow! And now being a remarried widow!
~ Finding purpose after loss
Natalie is amazing! You can reach her at www.brokenhaloshaven.org
The book that really helped her is called "It's Not Supposed To Be This Way" by Lysa Terkeurst
Here's the link to info on her One Woman Show:
https://www.brokenhaloshaven.org/speaking/
Ways to help a grieving friend blog post:
https://modmomtv.com/ways-to-help-a-grieving-friend-2/
Join our Facebook Group at Widow 180 Community
Follow on IG @widow_180
Kathleen Jucar-Forbes lost her husband Brad suddenly in December 2018. Kathleen shares her story of how losing Brad has shaped her into who she is today.
We talk about:
~ Finding purpose and meaning in life after we lose a spouse.
~ Visiting mediums to connect with lost loved ones
~ How Camp Widow is an amazing place to connect with other widows
~ How grief can affect us physically
~Important financial decisions
~ Widow fog is real!
~Having nightmares about your husband where he acts like a jerk to you!
~How you should always let other people help you, for as long as they're willing to keep showing up!
Kat will be speaking to our Widow Connection Community in March! If you would like to get more information and sign up to hear her speak, go to www.widow180.com/membership
You can reach Kat at www.MonarchWealth.com
She's on IG @mrs.katforbes
We're on IG! @widow_180
Camp Widow info: www.campwidow.org
Join our Facebook Group here!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
20 days changed everything for Becki Koon. Her husband Jack was diagnosed with cancer and 20 days later he passed away.
Becki and I chat about:
~ focusing on a "conscious death" process and what that means.
~ how one month after Jack passed, she was able to connect with him through meditation.
~ how we can feel connected to our loved ones who've passed
~ How she wrote the book "20 Days Changed Everything"
~How 20 months after Jack passed, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer and began fighting for her own life.
~ How breathwork is such an easy tool we can all use to change our energy in times of stress.
You can reach Becki and get a copy of her book at www.beckikoon.com
Be a part of our amazing membership community! at www.widow180.com/membership
Register now for the New Year, New Love Dating Program For Widows at www.widow180.com/newlove
The 6-week program starts Thursday February 17 at 7pm EST on Zoom!
DM me if you have any questions or email me at jen@widow180.com
Hope to see you there!
This is something that we all struggle with when we've been through loss and heartache and we're thinking about dating again.
It's finding the confidence in ourselves to get back out there and be vulnerable again.
Here are 3 ways to gain confidence in yourself so you can put yourself back out there and find love again.
This is definitely something that we cover in our new dating program, New Year New Love Dating Program For Widows!
We're starting February 17, 2022 so sign up now and save your spot at www.widow180.com/newlove
If you have any questions, email me at jen@widow180.com
100 Episodes of Widow 180: The Podcast!
I couldn't think of a better way to recognize this monumental occasion than by highlighting some of the incredible quotes and stories from the past 100 episodes!
This podcast has been the most rewarding thing I've ever done with my life.
Thank you all for listening!
Please leave a rating and review!
Please share the podcast with other widows who need to hear it!
If you would like to join our widow community, the doors are always open. Join us every Wednesday night at 7pm EST. Sign up and get all the details at www.widow180.com/membership.
I have interviewed a lot of widows on the podcast and I've found that this is the NUMBER 1 reason why widows don't date again after losing their spouse!
You don't want to miss this!
If you are interested in dating again, but don't know where to start, I encourage you to sign up for my FREE workshop next Thursday January 27, 2022.
It's called New Year, New Love!
In this workshop, I'll walk you through how to create a dating strategy for you in 2022!
Are you ready?? This is gonna be fun!
Sign up at https://widow180.ck.page/newlove
See you at the workshop!
If you have any questions you can always email me at jen@widow180.com
My first interview of 2022 and it's one you don't want to miss! This is April Katherman-Redgrave, surviving widow of fallen police officer Mike Katherman who was killed in 2016.
April and I chat about:
~ Raising her 2 boys after losing Mike
~ An unexpected flood of her home where she had to be rescued by boat, just 6 months after losing Mike.
~ Starting new traditions around milestone dates and holidays
~ Going through the trial, facing the man that killed her husband.
~ Having to be the poised widow under the spotlight and only having time to grieve in the shower!
~ Her decision to start a blog called Beauty For Our Ashes
~ Writing her book Through Hell And High Water
~ Being remarried to her now husband David and having a blended family of 5 kids!
You can find April's book on Amazon!
The bracelet April mentions can be found at: AdventuresAfterYou75 on Instagram
Sign up for the New Year, New Love FREE workshop here:
https://widow180.ck.page/newlove
or go to www.widow180.com and click right there on the homepage!
During this workshop we'll be creating a dating strategy for YOU in 2022!
Are you ready? Let's do this!
This is something we hear a lot! Year 2 of widowhood is much harder than year 1. But is that really true??
This question was asked in our last group meeting by one of our members and I wanted to share the answers that followed. 4 different widows. Different stages of grief. Each with a different perspective.
I invite you all to join the Widow Connection Community for more group discussions like this!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
I hope to see you in the meetings!
Please leave a rating and review of the podcast and I'll read it on the next episode with a big thank you TO YOU!
How can you create new possibilities in the new year?
To help start 2022 strong, let's talk about some powerful words that you can explore and adopt into your life to elevate you to the best version of yourself!
These are words that will motivate and inspire you, words that you can go back to and focus on to remind yourself of your goals and intentions for the year!
For more discussions like this, join us in the Widow Connection Community, where every Wednesday evening we have group coaching sessions to help on this healing path through grief.
You don't have to walk the path alone!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
If you would like to share your story on the podcast, please email me at jen@widow180.com
Please share this with other widows who need to hear it and leave a kind rating and review to help us get seen!
Jenny Stults lost her husband Dan from a seizure in January 2015.
Jenny takes us on her path of healing and shares her story about becoming a blogger then author of the book Carry On Castle, a memoir of love and loss.
In this episode we chat about:
~ Finding a good therapist!
~ Relationships with in-laws
~ Forgiving yourself for soloparenting struggles!
~ Moving into a new home and all of the emotions involved in that!
~ Dating and finding love again (with a new perspective on love!)
You can get more information on therapy at the Dougy Center by going to www.dougy.org
You can find Jenny's book Carry On Castle on Amazon.
We are opening the doors to our new membership The Widow Connection Community on January 12, 2022!
Get more info and sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
I want to say a BIG thank you to all of my incredible podcast guests this last year! These brave, beautiful souls poured out their wisdom and experience in hopes of making a difference in someone's life...and I truly believe they did!
In this episode, they share some advice on how to get through the holidays as a widow.
I want to wish you all so much love and peace and calm this Christmas Eve and always!
Thank you for listening!
Also, if you would like more information on our NEW membership community that will be starting NEXT MONTH...go to www.widow180.com/membership to get all the details and to sign up there!
I hope to see you on the inside!
Email me if you have any questions! Jen@widow180.com
I have this idea and I would love for you to be a part of it!
After hosting my Widow's Holiday Club for the second year in a row, I felt like I wanted to continue our weekly Zoom meetings regularly. As we all know, different things come up with in-laws or with kids or with stress or with stress around finances, so many overwhelming aspects of grief!
And we know at those times we need some extra support from other widows who "get it".
I wanted to create a community, a membership, where widows can get together and share thoughts, fears, stories, helpful tips, ideas, dreams, all of it....without judgment!
Oftentimes we feel like we can't talk to friends or family members because we're making them uncomfortable or we feel like we're burdening them with our "problems".
This community that I want to create would be a safe space to come and learn new ways to navigate through grief.
I would have a guest speaker come in once per month to teach on a new topic like self-care, finances, organizations, mindset, diet, to name a few.
Want a book club? I love that idea!
I want YOU to be involved in creating this space and making it the best possible!!
I also want to make super affordable to everyone so I'm starting at $33 per month. I want it to be accessible to everyone!
If you're interested, please let me know!
I would love to get started in January 2022, so you can get more information and sign up at www.widow180.com/membership
Email me if you have any questions at jen@widow.com
I had the privilege of speaking with Sharon McChristian on the podcast this week. Sharon lost her husband Randy in 2012 from a sudden heart attack.
Sharon and I chat about:
~How she overcame her fears after becoming a widow
~ How GriefShare helped her healing process
~ How seeing Her late husband's signature was a major trigger for her
~ How she reconnected with an old friend and rekindled a friendship that grew into love! She is now remarried to Trent!
~ How Deuteronomy 30:19 inspired her to start her blog NowChooseLife
You can find Sharon on Facebook and Instagram at NowChooseLife30. Her blog is at www.nowchooselife.net
You can get more info on GriefShare at www.griefshare.org
Join us on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Follow on IG: @widow_180
This episode was inspired by the incredible ladies in the Widow's Holiday Club!
It's been such a pleasure getting to know these amazing ladies and forming connections and friendships this holiday season.
When I asked the group about how they were feeling this week, the most popular response was "overwhelmed!"
So, in this episode I share 3 ways you can combat the holiday overwhelm!
For other blog posts go to www.widow180.com
I love to hear from you guys!
You can email me at jen@widow180.com
Follow on IG @widow_180
Thank you to everyone who participated in this week's episode!
These are some pretty incredible souls, stepping up and putting themselves out there, working hard, supporting themselves, supporting their families, thriving, and making this world a better place!
Here are the businesses from this week:
- Marni Henderson - widow wellness and widow retreats - www.coalescediscovery.com
IG: @coalescediscovery
www.sunriseretreat.org
-
Kim Murray - widow resource expert, author and coach - www.widow411.com
-
Lysandra VanderHart - Norwex products - www.lysandravanderhart.norwex.biz
www.cleanlivinginfo.com
email: cleanlivingcontact@gmail.com
- Randi Karpinia - business lawyer - Sagacity Legal
www.sagacitylegal.com
email: randi@sagacitylegal.com
Join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
My guest this week on the podcast is Laura Leanne, vlogger, world-traveller, widow, and entrepreneur.
She joins me this week to talk about the loss of her husband James and how it's impacted her life.
We chat about:
~ PTSD and how to handle anxiety
~ How to overcome the fear of travelling alone
~ How and where to spread loved one's ashes
~ How starting her Instagram @adventuresafteryou75 has helped her heal
~ Her YouTube Channel content: grief and travel
~ Her new business, Rings of Loved Ones, bracelets to hold your spouse's wedding ring. You can find them on Etsy!
I loved this conversation and find Laura to be such an inspiration!
Check out her YouTube Channel: Laura Leanne
Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Check us out on YouTube, Widow 180: The Channel: Here's our latest video on getting through the holidays:
https://youtu.be/g1CSJhdtnMs
Speaking of holidays! You can download my new book, The Widow's Holiday Guidebook: 45 Days Of Self-Reflection, Self-Compassion, And Self-Care at www.widow180.com/books
Welcome to this Tuesday BONUS episode where we're answering a Widow's Holiday Club member question.
This is a tough time of year for a lot of widows, with emotions and thoughts that get escalated around the holidays.
It's important to know that we won't always know what to do or say or think and that we need to be COMPASSIONATE with ourselves!
Please forward this episode to any other widows who need to hear it!
If you would like to purchase the Widow's Holiday Guidebook, go to www.widow180.com/books
Please join our FREE Facebook group: Widow180 Community.
Check out our YouTube Channel: Widow 180: The Channel
And follow us on IG: @widow_180
It's back again and I am so excited! This is a special episode we call the WidowBiz Weekend Edition where listeners and supporters of the podcast can call in and advertise their biz!
I applaud all of the women who called in to participate this year! I know how hard you all work to support your families. Let's show all these ladies some extra love and support this holiday season and buy from each other to support a widow-owned biz!
Here's the list of advertisers from this episode:
-
Kathleen Starr - selling Pomifera products. Go to www.pomifera.com/kathleenstarr and join her FB page at A Guiding Starr
-
Melissa Pierce - self-care subscription boxes for widows. Go to www.filledwithgold.org
-
Lori Michelle - Lori's Waitress Service - www.loriswaitresservice.com
-
Jenny Stults - Author of the memoir Carry On Castle available on Amazon
-
Leo Donnell - One Happy Widow - The 28 Day Grief Pivot Course - go to www.onehappywidow.com/pivot
-
Brandi Lewark - Red Aspen - nails and tanning products - Go to www.redaspenlove.com and brandilewark_redaspen
-
Tina Murphy - Widow's Wallet - widow finance coach - Instagram @widowswallet
If YOU would like to advertise YOUR biz on the podcast, please reach out to me!
DM me on IG @widow_180
Email me at jen@widow180.com
Please share with other widows and leave a rating and review for the podcast!
What to do with the empty chair at the table? This was always a grief trigger for me.
Today I want to give a few suggestions on what to do with the empty chair at the table this holiday season.
Being prepared for those grief triggers can make the day and the moment much more bearable.
Also, if you would like to purchase The Widow's Holiday Guidebook, you can get the download at www.widow180.com/books
It's 45 Days of self-reflection, self-compassion, and self-care. It's full of activities and exercises and tips and strategies to get through the holiday season.
You are all in my thoughts and heart this Thanksgiving! Be safe and take care!
Join our Facebook group at Widow 180 Community.
Sabine Horner, grief nutritionist and widow, joins me today on this fascinating look into what exactly grief does to us physically and mentally.
We all know it wreaks havoc, right?
We can't eat properly, we feel like we can't breathe, we don't sleep, we can't think straight.
Sabine talks to me about:
~ How grief and nutrition are linked
~ Ayurveda and how proper eating for body types is beneficial
~ The importance of keeping food colorful and simple.
~ How to preserve energy while grieving
~ Certain vitamins that get depleted during grief, and how to supplement them.
~ How she is dedicated to bringing awareness to widows and the bereaved about the importance of taking care of our bodies after loss.
You can reach Sabine on Instagram @sabine.horner
Her Facebook Group is Wellbeing Community For Bereaved Partners
Here's the link to Sabine's wellness sheet:
file:///C:/Users/Sabine/Downloads/3%20Simple%20Self-Care%20Practices.pdf
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Lisa Godwin became a widow after losing her husband Bert to esophageal cancer in 2016. Since that time, she has transformed her life, rediscovered who she is as a person, and stepped into embracing change like a champ!
In our interview Lisa talks to me about:
~ The power of time to heal!
~ using Caring Bridge as a way of journaling emotions (as well as the practical updates)
~ Starting her passion project, Big Blue Chair, that shares stories and serves others!
~ When you feel ready to date again!
~ Advice on online dating!
~ How to handle your dating life with your grown children!
~ Allowing yourself the time to grieve properly!
You can find more information on Caring Bridge at www.caringbridge.org
You can find Lisa Godwin on Instagram:
@bigbluechair2020
@lisabgodwin
You can sign up for the Widow's Holiday Club at www.widow180.com/holiday
If you're interested in advertising your widow-owned biz on the podcast FOR FREE, message me or email me at jen@widow180.com
Are you feeling like you're ready to date but not sure?? Take our quiz to find out!
Go to www.widow180.ck.page/datingquiz
Wanna promote your widow-owned business on the podcast? Are you a maker, a creator, a service-provider and you're looking for a way to boost business this time of year?
I'll be doing my WidowBiz Weekend Edition of the podcast starting soon and if you would like to get your name out there and promote your business, I'm opening up the "podcast doors" for you to advertise (for free)!
Contact me if you're interested. You can email me at jen@widow180.com or DM me on IG @widow_180 or message me on Facebook at Widow 180 Community.
I love you and I want to see you succeed! So, let's make this happen!
Also, I'm doing my Widow's Holiday Club again this year and the doors are open to sign up now. We'll be starting in a couple of weeks. It will be 6 weeks of Zoom meetups, guided by a workbook and tons of free talk to help each other through this holiday season. Plus some awesome guest speakers, too!
If you're starting to feel stressed about the holidays, this club is a great place to be. It's a great outlet if you don't feel like you have anyone else to talk to about the holiday stress and holiday blues.
You can sign up at www.widow180.com/holiday.
You'll get a follow-up email from me with the link to the downloadable workbook we'll be using!
If you have any questions, please message me.
When we lose our spouse, we feel like part of us has died too. We feel numb. Life is about not just surviving, but thriving! Life is about not just existing, but living to the fullest!
So, how do we start to come alive again?
Here are some ways you can wake up and get back into the game of life!
If you're starting to feel anxious about the holidays and think you may need some support during this time of year, I encourage you to sign up for our 6 week group support, The Widow's Holiday Club!
Go to www.widow180.com/holiday to get on the waitlist!
We start Thanksgiving week!
Also join our FB group Widow 180 Community!
Follow on IG @widow_180
Julie Vandingenen became a caregiver to her fiance Louis after he was diagnosed at the age of 26 with stomach cancer. He lost his cancer battle 6 months later in August 2017.
Julie talks to me about:
~turning to social media to find support during the caregiver phase and after she lost Louis.
~Travel as a healthy coping mechanism!
~Helpful advice to caregivers like "take time to yourself"
~ How she started Lovingly Box, a care package company, in December 2019 as a way to find more meaning and purpose in her life and to help others.
~Finding love again!
~The importance of journaling as an outlet.
~ contemplating spirituality and after-life when we lose a loved one.
You can get more information at Lovingly Box at www.lovinglybox.com
Join our Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Get on the waitlist now for our Widow's Holiday Club, 6 week group support program:
Go to: www.widow180.com/holiday
Please share this with someone who needs it and leave us a rating and review for the podcast!
Here's a question I get asked a lot...How do I know if I'm ready to date again?
There are many, MANY layers to answer that question, but today I want to offer this one piece of advice to you to help answer the question "Are you ready to date?"
Also, I wanted to share a clip from Episode 17 with Stephanie Mosley. She shares the story of how she met her now husband Rob! I hope this inspires you and gives you hope!
If YOU'RE not sure you're ready to date again, TAKE OUR QUIZ TO FIND OUT:
Go to www.widow180.ck.page/datingquiz
And if you feel like you're ready to date, but have no idea where to start, I encourage you to check out our online course for Dating After Loss! Go to www.widow180.com/courses to get more info and sign up!
Thanks for listening! Please share with a friend and leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Karen Sutton, widow coach, mom, and podcast host is my guest this week on the podcast!
Karen's husband passed away suddenly from a heart attack at the age of 43, leaving Karen to raise their 2 young daughters.
Her mistakes and lessons learned through widowhood led her to become a life coach.
In this episode, Karen and I chat about some common widow struggles. She helps give some clarity as to what we can do about them!
We talk about:
~ choosing healthy coping mechanisms
~ talking to kids about death and loss
~ trigger moments and how to get through them!
~ the myth of "not making big changes in the first year."
~ Skipping holidays!
~ self-compassion and stopping self criticism!
~ believing in yourself and trusting your intuition!
Her Facebook group is called "Widows Rising"
You can get more information about her coaching programs at www.karensutton.co.uk
And don't forget to JOIN OUR FACEBOOK group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Follow on IG: @widow_180
Get info on our NEW course Dating After Loss:
www.widow180.com/courses
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Check us out on YouTube: Widow 180: The Channel!
I just passed a really big milestone date this last weekend. It's been 10 years since Brent was killed.
I've been a widow for 10 years.
It's so surreal.
This episode is me sharing some of my thoughts on widowhood.
JOIN OUR FACEBOOK group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Follow on IG: @widow_180
Please share the podcast with someone who needs to hear these stories and feel less alone as we navigate through grief!
YouTube: Widow 180: the Channel
Please leave a rating and a review of the podcast!
Thinking about dating again but have no idea where to start?
I get it!
Today's episode is a replay of Day 1 of the FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge.
What this challenge does and what my new course does, it opens up your mind more and prepares your heart more for what to expect when you start dating again.
At the end of Day 1, your homework assignment is to RANK YOUR ROADBLOCKS.
Here are some of the most common ones:
What will other people think?
I'm not sure I'm even ready.
I have too much baggage.
What If I try and I fail?
I feel like I'm betraying my husband. This feels like cheating.
Aren't I too old for this?
I don't know where to start?!
I'm afraid.
Your homework is to pick 5 from this list and RANK them...1 being your biggest roadblock.
EMAIL ME your results! Send to jen@widow180.com
I would LOVE to hear from you!
My new course can help navigate this modern dating world...it's called
Dating After Loss: A 4 Step WISH Program For Widows And Widowers Looking To Find Love Again!
For information on my new program go to www.widow180.com/courses
Join our Facebook group to continue these discussions:
Widow180 Community
And FOLLOW ON IG: @widow_180
Michelle Georges lost her husband Bob to cancer. In today's interview we talk about her life after the loss.
Michelle and I chat about:
~ Coping with grief by living in the present moment.
~ How organ donation is so important and can save people's lives
~ How to "pretend to be alive until you feel alive!"
~ How it's so easy to fall into the trap of poor health decisions and poor coping mechanisms, like drinking too much alcohol.
~ How widows who were happily married tend to remarry quickly because they want to replicate that - and that's ok!
~ How we can choose to wallow or we keep trying to try!
I would love to continue working with you guys on your new path to love by having you in my new program Dating After Loss: A 4 Step WISH Program for Widows and Widowers Looking to Find Love Again!
This course is a complete roadmap to get you back out there again!
You can sign up and get more info at www.widow180.com/courses
Email me if you have any questions! Jen@widow180.com
Join our Facebook group: Widow180 Community
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel!
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Another short but sweet story of love after loss from my wonderful podcast guest, Kathryn Monaco-Douglas.
This clip is from Episode 35, where Kathryn talks about meeting her now husband Scott.
Kathryn has such great perspective on grief and life and love after loss! Be sure to listen to the full episode to hear her whole story!
Also, TODAY is the LAST day to sign up for our Widow 180 FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge...it starts tomorrow October 5th!
If you're overwhelmed and confused about dating again as a widow, be sure to sign up at www.widow180.com/challenge
Join our Facebook group at Widow 180 Community!
Follow on IG @widow_180
Check out our YouTube Channel! Widow 180: The Channel!
Heather Quisel joins us on the podcast today to talk to us about the loss of her husband Larry and how her life has changed in the last 3 years since his death.
Heather and I chat about:
~ How she tried to "mindset" her way around grief and essentially cheat her way through grief (which didn't work!)
~ How the real struggle for widowed moms is to grieve and do what you need to do to feel better, and do it confidently, knowing there will be judgment from others
~ How essential oils have emotional properties.
~How essential oils are a powerful tool in your toolkit for grief.
~ How being remarried has brought her so much joy and a renewed sense of living.
~ How to not fall in to the victim role and stay in suffering.
If you're interested in essential oils and want more info, contact Heather on Instagram @heatherquisel
Join our FB group Widow 180 Community!
Follow on IG @widow_180
Join our FREE FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge starting Tuesday October 5th!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/challenge
Here's another short but sweet story of love after loss from my previous podcast guest, Autumn Toelle-Jackson.
This is a clip from podcast Episode 20, where she talks about getting remarried after losing her husband Joe.
You're gonna love this story about her wedding ring!
Be sure to go back and listen to that full interview on episode 20!
Also, we only have 1 WEEK LEFT until the FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge!
We're starting Tuesday October 5th!
If you're thinking about dating again but not sure where to even begin, this challenge is for you!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/challenge
Join our FB group at Widow 180 Community
This week I had the privilege of talking to One Happy Widow, Leo Donnell.
Leo's husband Dewey passed away from Stage 4 Bile Duct cancer in 2017, leaving her a solo parent to their 4 kids.
Leo and I chat about:
~ how she started grieving from the day he was diagnosed.
~ how she knew right away that she didn't want to spend the rest of her life alone.
~ how focusing on health and exercise helped her cope with the loss
~ how dating after loss is not easy!
~ how she found love again in a man named Paul who had also lost a spouse.
~ how starting the YouTube Channel ONE HAPPY WIDOW is spreading messages of hope and inspiration to other widows!
Check out her YouTube Channel and blog at One Happy Widow!
Our FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge starts Tuesday October 5th! Be sure to sign up and get more info at
www.widow180.com/challenge
Not sure you're ready to date yet?
TAKE OUR QUIZ to find out:
go to
www.widow180.com.ck.page/datingquiz
Join our FB group at Widow 180 Community
And IG @widow_180
We can get so distracted by grief, by ALL OF THE THINGS we HAVE to do, by all of the balls we are juggling, that we don't leave time for ourselves.
Anxiety and fear can get the best of us and unfortunately we don't always know how to "correct" it, how to come back to ourselves.
This episode talks about a mindfulness trick to check in with ourselves on a daily basis. Because WE matter. And our well-being matters.
Let me know if this helps!
I would love to hear from you, join our Facebook group Widow 180 Community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Or email me at jen@widow180.com
Welcome to a Monday Mini Dose Episode!
I'm starting this week by sharing some short but sweet stories of love after loss from some previous podcast guests.
The first story comes from Amanda Capps who I interviewed in Episode 53 of the podcast. Be sure to go back and listen to that full episode!
Next, we'll hear from Melissa Pierce who I interviewed in Episode 45 of the podcast. She had a unique approach to finding love again!
Have you been thinking about dating again but DON'T KNOW WHERE TO EVEN BEGIN?
I wanna help!
Sign up for the Widow 180 FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge at www.widow180.com/challenge
If you're not sure you're ready to date yet, TAKE OUR QUIZ to find out...
www.widow180.com.ck.page/datingquiz
And join our FB group at Widow 180 Community!
We are continuing with this LOVE theme on Widow 180: The Podcast with this week's episode featuring my special guest, my husband Doug.
He joins me this week to share our story of how we met, fell for each other, and got married!
I had a lot of fun with this episode!
Stories of how couples meet always inspired me and gave me hope as a widow that someday I, too, would be lucky in love again!
If you are contemplating dating, but not sure if you're ready, TAKE OUR QUIZ to find out.
Go to www.widow180.ck.page/datingquiz
AND be sure to join us OCTOBER 5th for our first ever FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge. It's a 3 day challenge to help you get started on the path to dating again!
Sign up at www.widow180.com/challenge
If anyone is questioning whether or not to date a widow, the short answer is YES you should!
Here are 11 reasons why it's better to date a widow!
If dating again is something that you're struggling with, I want to help!
Sign up for our FREE 3 Day Mini Challenge called the FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge!
It starts Tuesday October 5th and runs through Thursday October 7th 2021!
SIGN UP HERE:
https://www.widow180.com/challenge
I can't wait to see you there!
Let's get you on the path to have love in your life again!
You can also join our Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
If you would like to share a copy of the blog post "11 Reasons Why It's Better To Date A Widow" go to https://www.widow180.com/resources/reasons
Liz lost her husband Bryan suddenly from an unknown heart condition when he was only 36 years old. Liz was left to raise their two young daughters.
In this episode, Liz and I discuss:
~ The aftermath of emotions from PTSD.
~ Finding the right therapist!
~ EMDR - Does it really work??
~Crazy dreams we have about our late spouse
~ Finding love again when you think it's IMPOSSIBLE
~ Not caring what other people think!
~ How having a second life is something to be grateful for!
I know Liz's story will serve as a great example of what can be. It's a great example of hope for other widows.
I want to help you guys!
For any WIDOW/WIDOWER who is thinking of dating again but you find yourself stuck, maybe you haven't even taken a first step to dating because you've already talked yourself out of it!
The world of modern dating is totally different than what it used to be!
If you are open to love again but HAVE NO IDEA where to start, this challenge is for you!
I'm doing the FIND LOVE AGAIN Challenge!
And we're starting on Tuesday September 28th so sign up and mark your calendars!
Join at www.widow180.com/challenge
Can't wait to see you there!
This 3 Day Mini-challenge will help get you on the right track to having love in your life again!
When we're grieving we have a feeling of a total loss of control, right? Everything we know to be true and familiar is gone. We are thrown off.
What if you had 2 powerful, game-changing phrases to set you back on track?
It's a mindset shifting tool that's there when you need it!
These 2 phrases can be used to:
RECOGNIZE AND THEN RALLY!
Join us for a deeper discussion in our Facebook group:
Widow 180 Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Chat on Insta @widow_180
Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel!
Here's the latest video:
https://youtu.be/Uy09MCZR1dU
Dr. Linda Shanti joins me on today's podcast to talk about the loss of her husband Jonathan and how her life has changed since.
In today's episode we chat about:
~ Not judging our feelings, just allowing them to happen!
~ How we can use art as an outlet to healing through grief!
~ Her new book comes out this month! Check out "After Your Person Dies: Affirmations For Grief, Making Meaning, And Going On"
~ How grief is paradoxical!
~ How the second year of widowhood can be harder than the first year!
~ The awkwardness of planning a life without your husband WITH your husband!
If you're enjoying these podcasts please let me know!
JOIN our FB group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
or COMMENT on IG @widow_180
Check out our You Tube Channel, Widow 180: The Channel for the latest videos!
I had an amazing conversation this week with guest Cindy Brown, who lost her husband D'Andre to cancer May 19, 2021.
Despite her very recent widow status, Cindy is looking for positivity, focusing on happiness, and determined to not stay stuck in grief.
Cindy and I chat about:
~ How our faith can take a hit after loss
~ The incredible resilience of our kiddos!
~ Drawing strength from her late husband
~ How negativity on Facebook can keep us stuck if we let it!
~ Job options for Stay-at-home-mamas who are looking for flexible work-life balance...WORK IN EDUCATION!
PLEASE join our Facebook group if you haven't already! We are a positive group of ladies in there, ready to support and uplift each other!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Join our email list too!
Go to www.widow180.com and sign up there!
Follow on IG: @widow_180
Check out Widow 180: The Channel on YouTube! Here's the latest video:
https://youtu.be/43vS4AOG82U
Thanks for listening! Please leave a rating and review! We would really appreciate it!
I did a little research on this breathing exercise called the Wim Hof Method after my podcast guest Beth Wacome Keck mentioned it last week!
I wanted to pass this info on to you guys because I know how sleep can be a major struggle for widows. It definitely was for me! I don't think I slept for 3 years!
This is a breathing method that has many benefits: reduces stress, helps focus, helps get a better, deeper sleep.
I am a huge proponent of trying new things and being open to anything helpful! So give it a try!
Let me know what you think! Did it help you?
Go to YouTube and watch the guided breathing exercise by Wim Hof. There are several videos and free mini-classes.
Go to www.wimhofmethod.com for more information.
Give us some feedback: email me jen@widow180.com
Join our Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Here's the YouTube video from my interview with Beth:
https://youtu.be/43vS4AOG82U
Eric Keck, former US Ski Team Downhiller, husband, father, key member of the community, passed away suddenly at the family's home in July 2020.
In today's interview, his wife, Beth Wacome Keck talks to me about how many people he's influenced in his lifetime.
She talks to me about:
~Grieving as an intuitive process
~plans she has to continue Eric's dream for their property!
~dreams about our loved ones that feel SO real!
~gratitude for the life she shared with Eric
~Wim Hof breathing exercises that helped her sleep!
~The Keck Golden Ticket to help support young athletes!
For more information on the Keck Golden Ticket, go to the Facebook page: Eric Keck Memorial Foundation.
For help with sleep, go to www.wimhofmethod.com
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Check out our latest YouTube video!
https://youtu.be/rYQt-tg9HQE
The latest blog post is:
https://www.widow180.com/resources/50widows
FOLLOW on IG: @widow_180
Happy Birthday to Widow 180: The Podcast! Widow 180: The Podcast turns 1 today!
It's unbelievable! We've done 60 episodes! We have over 21,000 downloads. We've reached countries across the world!
My mission for this podcast was to put out inspiring stories of growth and transformation from other widows, all ages, all backgrounds, all across the world, some of them moms, some not. I believe I have succeeded.
What do all of these "widow success" stories have in common?
What are some of the lessons I've learned since starting this podcast one year ago today?
This episode goes over a list of 6 of the things I've learned in the last year from interviewing almost 50 widows!
Join our Facebook Group Widow 180 Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Here's our latest YouTube video!
https://youtu.be/rYQt-tg9HQE
Thank you so very much for listening this last year!
I truly appreciate your love and support for my passion project!
xoxo, Jen
When Victoria's husband Marcus told her that he was having thoughts of suicide, they immediately sought help together.
Despite medication and emotional therapy, Marcus took his own life on May 23, 2019.
In this episode, Victoria and I talk about:
~How our mental health system is lacking!
~How close family members can let you down when you need them the most
~Weird signs that we get from loved ones!
~Messages from mediums and messages from Marcus!
~Which dating Apps worked for her!
~her wildly outrageous story of removing her wedding ring!
~ squeezing in time to date as a solo-parent!
~Victoria's new meditation album for grief and loss.
Available on Amazon Music, Spotify, and iTunes, her meditation album is called:
Grief to Gratitude: Healing Through Grief, Loss, and Trauma
If you know of someone who needs help, PLEASE contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
or go to
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
For questions, comments, or concerns you can reach us at jen@widow180.com
Or DM me on Insta @widow_180
Or JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP: Widow 180 Community to chat in there!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEW YouTube Channel:
Widow 180: The Channel
Here's a clip from this interview with Victoria!!
https://youtu.be/rYQt-tg9HQE
Thank you for listening!
Please leave us a review and a rating for the podcast!
"We only get one life to live. Why would you waste it? You're in charge. You're the boss. You get whatever life you want, but you have to work for it. There's season to grieve and a season to move forward." ~AnneLena Mattison
I cannot say enough wonderful things about this week's podcast guest! There's so much strength and resilience and spirit in her words!
Here's the info on Camp Kesem:
www.campkesem.org
Do you think you might want to start dating again? Not sure if you're ready?
TAKE THIS QUIZ TO FIND OUT!
https://www.widow180.ck.page/datingquiz
JOIN OUR Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
SUBSCRIBE and watch the latest YouTube videos at Widow 180: The Channel!
Check it out here:
https://youtu.be/7IDwx8a6tqI
We are on IG: @widow_180
JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST! Go to www.widow180.com to sign up!
AnneLena Mattison is my guest this week on the podcast and she is THE PERFECT person to feature this Independence Day weekend.
Why?
Because I see in her all of the qualities that we all need to strive for. Being bold, being confident, taking charge of your life, taking responsibility for your own happiness, and embracing new independence!
She lost her husband Curtis in 2015 after a long battle with cancer.
In this episode (Part 1), AnneLena talks about losing Curtis and raising their 6 children. How his loss affected the family and powered some of their decisions for a new life together.
Please SUBSCRIBE and leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Join our Facebook Group: Widow 180 Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Follow on IG: @widow_180
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!!
Relief is not a common feeling when we're talking about grieving the loss of a loved one.
But when you lose your spouse to substance abuse and addiction, you have potentially spent years witnessing firsthand their demise.
The surviving widow is left feeling a mix of emotions and feeling guilty over feeling relief.
In this episode we get a better understanding of what relief guilt is.
This episode teaches a powerful exercise to help shift our perspective on guilt.
If this episode resonates with you, I would love to hear your take on RELIEF GUILT.
If you would like to read the blog post with this episode go to www.widow180.com/resources/relief
Join our Facebook group at Widow 180 Community for deeper discussions on this topic and so much more!
Follow on IG @widow_180
Do you think you suffer from PTSD?
TAKE THIS QUIZ to find out...
https://widow180.ck.page/ptsd
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Carole lost her husband Steven in 2019 after years of battling alcoholism. Carole talks to me about their incredible love story that spanned several decades, but ultimately their love wasn't as strong as the pull to drink and it wasn't enough to save him.
Carole talks about the Relief Guilt that she had after he finally was diagnosed with liver failure and put on hospice. She felt like finally there would be a change in their relationship and the lives they were living.
Carole has been through so much and yet her positivity about a bright and exciting future fill her spirit.
I appreciate her bravery and honesty in sharing her experience today!
You can read the latest blog post that talks about RELIEF GUILT at www.widow180.com/resources/relief
Join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community
IG: @widow_180
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast! I love to hear from you!
For questions or if you would like to be interviewed on the podcast, email me at jen@widow180.com
Is it just me or does anybody else hate the word "acceptance" when we're talking about the loss of our spouse?
I mean, I TRULY despise this word.
Acceptance.
In this episode, we talk about a concept called Radical Acceptance, which basically means that we understand that bad things do indeed happen to good people - and all the time!
Radical Acceptance shows us ways we can practice to better cope with the stress we have to deal with.
In this episode we go over 5 exercises we can do to practice Radical Acceptance.
For a list of 273 Healthy Coping Strategies, go to www.widow180.ck.page/coping
I would LOVE to hear your thoughts on this topic!
Email me at jen@widow180.com
or
DM on Insta: @widow_180
Check out this clip from my interview with Tawny Platis on Widow 180: The Channel:
https://youtu.be/TK6tvo6RWFk
Be sure to subscribe!
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Join our Facebook Group here Widow 180 Community:
facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Tawny Platis's husband George had a very rare heart condition since birth and lost his life in November 2019.
Initially, Tawny found herself spiraling into depression, wanting to end her own life, but 2 things saved her:
-
making other people laugh!
-
Their precious puppy Babs!
In this episode we chat about:
~how she started a podcast called Death Is Hilarious
~how she went through a "wid-hoe" phase
~using humor as a way of bringing control back to us
~how "widow brain" affects focus and memory
~how strangers can show up in our lives from out of nowhere, just when we need them the most
~how much her life has changed and improved just in the last year!
Be sure to check out Tawny's podcast at https://deathishilarious.com
Also check out this week's blog post on RADICAL ACCEPTANCE as a concept and coping mechanism for grief. You can read that at https://www.widow180.com/resources/radical
Check out our new YouTube Channel! It's Widow 180: The Channel
Here's the latest episode: https://youtu.be/rAxtcni1Z4U
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
In 2006, Amanda's husband Erik was killed in an accident when he was hit by a truck on the side of the road. The driver had suffered a diabetic episode and Erik was killed immediately.
Amanda was only 24 years old when she became a widow.
In this episode, Amanda and I chat about:
~meeting Chapter 2!
~bittersweet milestones
~time and grief mind tricks!
~taking off your wedding ring
~starting a Facebook group that now has 5,000 members!
The company that Amanda works for, Demme Learning, is a homeschooling company that has a widow and widower grant program. They discount homeschooling materials for widows. For more information on this grant, go to www.demmelearning.com.
Check out our latest YouTube videos on Widow 180: The Channel!
Here's the latest clip:
https://youtu.be/pG9iQyaE-3k
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
If you would like to be interviewed on the podcast, please let me know!
DM me or email me at jen@widow180.com
In this week's episode I wanted to talk about those really tough, unbearable, rock bottom, messy moments.
Fun topic, right?
Well, I know we've all been through them. Unfortunately, this is GRIEF. This is the true picture of what it looks like and what it feels like.
I wanted to share one of my rock bottom moments with all of the listeners because I want you to know that you're not alone. This is hard. I know I can't fix it for you, but I CAN help you through it.
I've compiled a list of different ways and different things you can do to get through those messy moments and dig yourself out of them.
I hope this helps!
Get the list at:
https://widow180.ck.page/rockbottom
Join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community
IG: widow_180
Alana McAllister shares the experience of losing her husband Bruce to COVID-19 in the third of this month's series of interviews with widows of COVID.
Bruce, an Army veteran and loving husband and father, lost his battle with COVID on March 28, 2020. He was the first person in their county to pass away from the virus.
Alana talks about the traumatizing experience of going into the hospital, how she didn't get to have a proper funeral, how she didn't get the necessary time to grieve, and how she's handled life during quarantine after losing Bruce.
She talks to us about how she handles stress and how she's finding ways to cope with the unbearable anxiety that accompanies grief and PTSD.
Do you think you have PTSD but you're not sure? Take this QUIZ and answer these questions to find out:
Go to www.widow180.ck.page/ptsd
Go to www.widow180.com for more resources on Post-Traumatic Growth.
Join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community
For other COVID widow stories on YouTube go to Widow 180: The Channel:
https://youtu.be/Hvj65vOYyzE
Follow us on IG: widow_180
Pamela Addison, wife of Martin Addison, joins me in Week 2 of a series of episodes with widows who have lost their husbands to COVID-19.
Martin Addison lost his battle with COVID April 29, 2020. He was only 44 years old. Pamela was left to raise their 2 small children on her own.
She shares how she started a blog, The Graceful Swan, to help her cope with the loss and how she's used writing as therapy.
She saw a need for community with young COVID widows after realizing how alone she felt, so she started the Facebook group Young Widows and Widowers of COVID-19. It has grown to more than 500 members in just 6 months.
In this episode she also gives details of her experience with not being able to be with Martin in the hospital and how helpless she felt during the 26 days he spent in the hospital.
Pamela talks to us about challenges of solo-parenting, adjusting to changes in her career while grieving, and what the future looks like for her and her children.
Check out Pamela's blog: The Graceful Swan
Join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927
Check out our new YouTube Channel!!
Widow 180: The Channel
Subscribe so you don't miss any new videos!
Here's the latest video...
https://youtu.be/Hvj65vOYyzE
For more resources go to www.widow180.com
Thank you for your support! Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Stacy Denoyior joins me today to discuss the loss of her husband Anthony to COVID on April 19, 2020.
Anthony started feeling sick March 22, 2020 and progressively got worse and worse despite the fact that he was young and healthy. Anthony lost his fight with COVID, leaving behind Stacy and their two sons.
Stacy and her boys chose to take the money from the GoFundMe account and establish a non-profit memorial fund in Anthony's name to continue his legacy of generosity and helping.
You can find more information at www.theanthonydenoyiormemorialfoundation.org
Stacy shares some lessons about grieving that she's learned in the past year. She talks about self-care, handling tough situations with strength and grace, and embracing change to move forward in life.
Be sure to check out other podcast episode on our new YouTube channel:
Widow 180: The Channel
Latest interview is here...
https://youtu.be/mpFJ-G9_uaU
Subscribe so you don't miss any interviews!
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
I love to hear from you!!
Email me at jen@widow180.com
follow on IG: widow_180
Join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community
Sarah Gallagher's husband Mike collapsed suddenly one night at home while Sarah was away at a conference. He passed away several days later.
Sarah talks about having a strange feeling, a premonition that something bad was about to happen.
Sarah followed through with her dream to have a larger family. One year after losing Mike, she chose to do IVF with a donor and became pregnant on the first try!
She shares her journey of going through the difficult decision to have another baby on her own.
Sarah talks to us about the struggles of solo-parenting and teaching her children that family truly does extend beyond just a mom and dad. It includes friends, too!
Sarah became certified as a widow coach last year, using her experience to now help others.
She created a program called Reclaim Your Life that focuses on finding your new identity, redefining who you are, reassessing your life, and processing your feelings.
You can reach Sarah at:
www.thedaysarefull.com
For more resources go to:
www.widow180.com
Check out our new YouTube channel:
Widow 180: The Channel
IG: @widow_180
Emily Lassiter lost her husband Joe in a plane crash in February 2014. Their two daughters were 7 and 9 years old at the time.
In this episode, Emily shares her story of loss and how she was able to spend time with her girls and travel in order to heal from grief.
Emily's father, a financial advisor, acted as her advocate and helped her figure out a plan of action as far as a budget, when she would have to go back to work, and what goals she could set for herself.
Emily was inspired to help other widows do that same work to make a plan and forge a successful financial path.
Emily partnered with Lauren Pearson and the two formed Wealth Edit, an online membership community that provides an affordable solution for financial advice for widows.
The membership offers courses, lectures on entrepreneurship, how to open a business, how you can work from home, how to make a budget, etc. And it's all within an amazing community of like-minded women.
Emily is such an incredible human being and such an inspiration to show people what's possible and that you can find something you love and something you can pour your heart and soul into to find fulfillment and joy again!
You can find Emily at www.wealthedit.com
Email Emily at emily@wealthedit.com
FB and IG: wealthedit
Also at www.somersetadvisory.com
Also, Widow 180: The Channel is now up and running on YouTube and I'm so excited about it!
Please share with anyone who needs to hear these incredible stories!
Latest episode here!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mOqC6phWP4&t=185s
Find more resources at www.widow180.com
I asked Melissa Pierce in our interview "What's the biggest change you've seen in yourself since becoming a widow?" She said to me, " Trusting myself. Relying on myself again to make decisions on my own."
I think this is something we can all relate to!
Having to take on the burden and responsibility of a household and all of the people in it is not an easy task!
So, what can we do?
How can we learn to rely on ourselves again?
In this episode we go over a few different ways on how we can have more confidence in ourselves and our decision-making capabilities.
The key thing to remember is this:
Action Creates Clarity
Clarity Gives You Confidence
Confidence Creates Momentum
And then what?
And then you're unstoppable!
JOIN US ON FB: Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
JOIN US ON IG: @widow_180
Find all the latest blog posts: www.widow180.com
Please leave a rating and review for the podcast!
Melissa Pierce lost her husband Dave suddenly and unexpectedly in 2011. She and her 2 boys found themselves navigating through the tough journey through grief together.
Melissa talks to us today about her struggles with decision-making as a solo-parent and how she had to learn to trust her instincts and rely on herself to raise her family.
In 2017 Melissa wrote a book called Filled With Gold about her adoption and then subsequent widow journey.
Feeling unfulfilled in her corporate job, Melissa decided to start a new business venture in 2019. Her Filled With Gold Subscription boxes are available now!
Melissa talks to us about the importance of self-care when grieving and how self-care is not indulgent, it's necessary.
You can find Melissa at www.filledwithgold.org.
Or on FB and IG at filled with gold
And please subscribe to the podcast and leave us a kind review!
You can find the latest blog posts at www.widow180.com
In this BONUS episode we are talking about the 'widow rules' we often hear (and self-impose).
What are the "widow rules"?
What happens if we break them?
There are so many Do's and Don'ts we are SUPPOSED to follow.
Here's a list of the rules and what we can REALLY rely on to get us through the toughest season of our lives.
Join us for more discussion on FB at Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
or on IG: @widow_180
Jill Johnson-Young has had the experience of losing not one, but two spouses in her lifetime, both to long term illnesses. Through this, she has learned what it means to love, grieve, reorganize her life, and once again find joy, sunshine, and smiles.
Jill specializes in grief and loss, end of life and dementia, and teaches therapists grief-related skills. After more than a decade with hospice she writes grief books for adults and children.
Her goal is to change the way all of us prepare for a death, say goodbye, and move into a recreated life!
She co-hosts a weekly Facebook chat and a monthly dementia group.
Her latest book, The Rebellious Widow, is available now!
You can reach Jill at www.jilljohnsonyoung.com
And Join us on FB at Widow 180 Community or on Instagram @widow_180
What did you accept help with after your spouse passed away? What help did you refuse? What do you wish people had done for you, if only you had asked them to?
This bonus episode was inspired by several of my podcast interviews where we talk about the help we get after our spouses pass away.
In the immediate aftermath, we are so confused and overwhelmed and in shock, we can't think straight enough to know what we need!
People want to help because it helps them grieve the loss, too!
Let them help!
Can't think of what you need?
Here's a list and some suggestions of what to ask for!
Resources:
Episode 12
Episode 39
Go to www.widow180.com/resources/ask to get the full list!
Terriann Muller lost her husband Mark after a 7 month battle with esophageal cancer. She had just lost her mom to lung cancer the prior year.
This compounded grief caused her to experience both physical and mental exhaustion.
Terriann sought help from a health coach, a life coach, and a naturopathic physician.
Then in 2017, after a powerful 10 day mission trip to India, Terriann decided to make a change in her life. She wanted to use her experience for something good.
She took several coaching programs and started Renegade Widow Coaching in 2019 and hasn't looked back.
She is dedicated to using the lessons she's learned to help other widows and empower them to lead fulfilling and fun lives!
You can sign up to be a part of her 8 week Dating Widow Program at www.thedatingwidow.com
You can also find Terriann at www.terriannmuller.com
or on IG @renegadewidowcoach
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: Widow180 Community
Jocelyne Baker-Johnson lost her husband Phil on Friday July 13, 2007 when a tree fell on his truck while driving to a campsite. Thrown into widowhood with 4 young children, Jocelyne found she had to pick up the broken pieces of their life.
She found herself at a charity fundraiser event 4 months after Phil died and was faced with a pivotal moment in her new life.
She decided to go to Uganda to volunteer for an organization called Bead For Life, that raises money to help Ugandan widows who are trying to start businesses.
In 2010, she and her 4 children moved to Uganda for 1 year to live and volunteer for Bead For Life.
Jocelyn wrote a paper entitled Grief Inspired Journeys: Travel as a Way of Coping With Loss. In 2014, she received her Master's Degree.
Jocelyne is currently writing a memoir about her experience and adventures in Africa.
To learn more about Bead For Life go to www.beadforlife.org.
Buying jewelry from Bead For Life empowers these women to change their lives!
Join us on Facebook at Widow 180 Community!
IG: @widow_180
Viki Brown lost her husband Dustin at the young age of 34 in a tragic single car accident. Their children were 6, 5, and not even 1 year old at the time.
Viki turned to a grief support center, Ryan's place, to help both her and her children grieve the loss of Dustin. Shortly after attending, she felt a strong calling to open a children's grief center in her own town.
She mentioned the idea to friend and co-founder, Ashley, and from there doors started opening up for the center to come to fruition. She was told to get a non-profit up and running would take 3-5 years. From the initial time she mentioned the idea until the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the facility was exactly one year!
Dustin's Place - Center for Grieving Children and their Families was born!
Viki shares her story of loss, understanding children's grief, starting a non-profit, putting faith in God, finding love again, and answering a calling!
It's an incredible story!
You can find Viki at www.dustinsplace.org
On Facebook at Dustin's Place
On IG @dustinsplaceinc
Follow us on Facebook at Widow 180 Community!
Please subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating and review!
Alex Sinclair lost her husband Lee to lung cancer in July 2018. Alex leaned on her beloved dog and best friend Phoebe for support to get her through her loss.
When Phoebe fell ill one afternoon, Alex took her to the vet and was shocked when her debit card was declined to pay for the visit.
A man Alex had met online had stolen almost $60,000 out of her bank account through hacking into her accounts. This man, William, who she had met on the dating app Zoosk had gotten access to her accounts through her email.
Alex shares the details of the ordeal she is going through, the loss of her lifesavings, the roadblocks she is facing with getting help from local police, and the ultimate loss of her beloved dog, Phoebe.
If there is anyone listening to this podcast episode that can help Alex in any way, PLEASE contact me at jen@widow180.com
Alex also shares with us some red flags to look for when it comes to online scammers!
You can read those in this week's blog post at
www.widow180.com/resources/scammer
Join us for more discussion on Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck on Facebook!
Jenny Lisk's entire world shut down and turned upside down with her husband, Dennis's sudden diagnosis of glioblastoma. Within a few short months, Jenny became full time caregiver for Dennis, who lost his battle with brain cancer in January 2016.
Jenny documented the year from diagnosis until Dennis's death through Caring Bridge, an online blog/journal for families going through illness.
Jenny realized she needed extra help and support when it came to her 2 young children and their grief.
She started to compile a list of resources and felt a calling to share this information with other widows.
She started her podcast, The Widowed Parent Podcast, where each week she interviews top grief experts, authors, psychologists, and speakers who share their advice.
Jenny recently published her first book called Future Widow: Losing My Husband, Saving My Family, and Finding My Voice.
You can reach Jenny at:
www.jennylisk.com
Other resources from this episode:
Tips for widowed parents:
https://jennylisk.com/top10
Dougy Center:
https://www.dougy.org/
National Alliance For Grieving Children:
https://childrengrieve.org/find-support
Eluna Resource Center:
https://elunanetwork.org/resources/
Join us on Facebook at Widow 180 Community
and on
IG: @widow_180
There's one question I try to ask every one of my guests on Widow 180: The Podcast and that question is:
What's one piece of advice you can give to new widows?
Here's a list of the Top Ten answers I've found to be the most helpful!
If you can think of any other advice to give to new widows, I want to hear it!
DM on IG @widow_180
Join our Facebook group Widow 180 Community and message me!
Or email me: jen@widow180.com
One evening, Kathryn's husband Larry pulled her aside, sat her down, and very seriously explained to her that he felt like he didn't have any more goals in life. He had nothing more to live for. He didn't know why, but he felt he needed to tell her that.
2 weeks later Larry passed away suddenly from a blood clot.
Kathryn became a widow at 42 years old.
She had a disappointing experience with traditional therapy and then with a local bereavement group, so she decided to start her own group. She called it Widowed Not Alone.
She has spent the last 15 years growing her support groups, adding new fundraisers, and training dozens of new grief facilitators. Her support groups are totally free to the public.
Kathryn is now writing a book about how to facilitate bereavement groups. Her book is called "The Bereavement Guide Book" and will be released soon!
She is dedicated to helping other widows and those who are grieving loss.
You can find her at www.widowednotalone.com
IG: @widowednotalone
FB: Long Island Young Widows and Widowers Group
For more info, resources, and blog posts go to:
www.widow180.com
Sign up to be on our email list!
AND join us on FB:
Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
This is a super quick Tuesday Tip episode!
I wanted to share with you something that helped me get over my fears of dating again and putting myself out there after losing Brent.
Because it's scary, right?!
We can let ourselves talk us into some pretty crazy, self-doubt spirals sometimes. But it's all in your mindset and your attitude.
Keep reminding yourself that you are empowered, not vulnerable!
For more dating advice and tips, go to www.widow180.com/resources/datingagain
and
www.widow180.com/resources/status
Other podcast episodes on dating:
Episode 31
Episode 32
Episode 33
Catfishing, confidence, new chapters, security, The Law of Attraction, making better choices, online scammers, loss and love and all things dating a widow!
This is episode 33 with Jenna Lebron!
Join us for this nitty gritty discussion, where some your Facebook questions get answered!
To take the QUIZ to see if you're ready to start dating again, go to www.widow180.ck.page/datingquiz
And to download our CHECKLIST for Writing An Online Dating Profile (That Actually Works!) Go To:
www.widow180.ck.page/profile-checklist
IG: @widow_180
FB: Widow 180 Community
I was honored this week to have our first male guest on the show! Doug Zwinck, my husband, is here today to talk about what it's like to date a widow!
Widows have so much stress and concern when it comes to dating again after loss, so I wanted to share a guy's point of view about all of it.
Did he have any concerns? Was there any hesitation about dating a widow?
We also talk about his online dating experience (before he met me) and some tips he was willing to share about creating a well-crafted online dating profile.
If you're ready to start online dating and not sure about how to write your profile, DOWNLOAD OUR
WIDOW'S CHECKLIST FOR WRITING AN ONLINE DATING PROFILE (THAT ACTUALLY WORKS!)
Go to https://widow180.ck.page/profile-checklist
For more dating tips and advice, join our Facebook group Widow 180 Community
In this episode we cover the 4 biggest mistakes widows make when it comes to dating again after loss - - and how to avoid them!
Listen, for a widow, dating can be tricky and confusing and downright intimidating!
However, dating can be fun and exciting IF you avoid making these mistakes.
My mission this week (and every week) is to arm you with the knowledge and know-how to navigate life after loss.
Hopefully this episode will ease some fears and help you dive right into the dating world!
Here are some references from this episode:
Episode 30 - Ashley Neumann and Jamie Hattier
Episode 10 - Laurice Duffy, life coach.
Episode 17 - Stephanie Mosley
Episode 18 - Kim Murray, Widow 411 (Chicken Soup For The Soul article)
Episode 19 - Autumn Toelle - Jackson, author and speaker
Episode 28 - Jenna Lebron, grief facilitator
Are You Ready to Start Dating Again?
Take THIS QUIZ to find out:
https://widow180.ck.page/datingquiz
Rate, review, and subscribe on Apple podcasts!
Welcome to this special episode of the podcast featuring my two dear friends Ashley Neumann and Jamie Hattier.
These ladies have joined me today for a discussion on dating again after loss!
There are many, MANY things involved in dating again including:
~Feeling guilty
~What type of relationship do you want right now? Just fun? Looking for a serious relationship?
~ When to introduce the kids to a new guy
~What will your in-laws and family think
~Dating a widower versus dating a divorced person
~How do I know if I'm even ready to date
We discuss all of these topics and more in this candid conversation about Ashley and Jamie's experience in the dating world.
Read the latest blog post about advice and tips for dating again at www.widow180.com/resources/datingagain.
Are you not sure you're ready to start dating again?
TAKE THIS QUIZ TO FIND OUT!
https://widow180.ck.page/datingquiz
On December 29, 2015, Nadja Ensink-Teich's husband, Jeroen, left their house and walked to the corner to mail some postcards. Moments later he was fatally stabbed by a complete stranger walking by. Nadja's life was completely changed in one horrific moment.
Nadja shares with us her journey through grief and motherhood, caring for her baby girl, Fleur.
She talks about how her decision to travel the world with Fleur reawakened her spirit and gave her purpose again.
She shares how she has decided to make a difference in the world by becoming a coach to other widows to help them through their trauma and help them rebuild their lives.
Nadja can be reached at:
www.nadjaensinkteich.com
or on IG
@nadjaensinkteich
Follow us on Facebook at Widow 180 Community!
Jenna Lebron's husband Arturo lost his life in a tragic helicopter accident in May 2012. Their two boys were only 20 months and and 6 weeks old at the time.
Jenna recounts her struggles as a new widow, learning to compartmentalize her grief and balancing being present with her two boys. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and making time to do the things you love.
She describes a spiritual quest, diving into books for guidance and searching for answers and closure.
In 2018, Jenna became a grief facilitator, helping other widows and families navigate through their trauma and emotions.
Jenna is forging her new path in life with grit, strength, and a strong spirit.
Be sure to check www.widow180.com for updates on our next widow program....starting soon!
Follow us on IG @widow_180
Today's episode is partially inspired by a book I started reading called Limitless by Jim Kwik. Jim Kwik is a brain coach and he teaches people how to live an unstoppable life.
This episode is also partially inspired by the astounding group of ladies in our Widow's Holiday Club. We've been meeting twice weekly since Thanksgiving. Some topics come up and then other amazing conversations are sparked along the way. This week, of course, was all about how we can make 2021 a better year. What changes can we make? What can we improve?
This combination led me to this episode where I talk about 3 ways you can make 2021 a phenomenal year!
Three things to focus on this year:
-
Ask better questions. Make better statements.
-
Staying Motivated
-
Our Expectations
There are some exciting things I have planned for 2021 in the Widow 180 Community. Check out www.widow180.com for a big announcement on a new program that will be happening soon!
I've done some incredible interviews these past few months!
I asked some of our guests to share some advice on how to get through Christmas after losing their spouse. What helped them? What new traditions did they start?
Hear their stories and experience in these excerpts from their interviews.
Find more resources at www.widow180.com
I want to wish everyone the most love and peace and hope and joy this Christmas and always!
Join our email list for articles and advice! Go to www.widow180.com
Desiree and her husband Logan were celebrating with family Easter weekend 2019 after finding out they were pregnant with a baby girl. Logan unexpectedly took his own life early Easter morning.
Desiree, 15 months pregnant, had to focus on remaining healthy for the remainder of her pregnancy, despite the mounting stress and anxiety she was experiencing. In October 2019, she gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl.
Desiree shares her story of loss, pregnancy, moving to a new home, childbirth, and strengthening her faith in God to get her through it all.
She is committed to a life of transparency and compassion, so that her 2 young boys will always be open to share whatever emotions they are feeling and whatever thoughts they are having.
In May 2020, Desiree and her sister opened 2 Blondes and a Babe, an online business combining her sister's interest in skincare and jewelry products and Desiree's personalized/custom items.
You can find 2 Blondes and a Babe on Facebook, Instagram, Etsy, and www.2blondesandababe.com
This is your last chance to call in for the WidowBiz Weekend Edition to promote your business on the podcast! Call 985-807-1026 and leave a voice message with all of your info. That message will be played on the podcast!
Thank you for listening!
Please subscribe and leave a review!
Astarie Dennis lost her husband Steven at the young age of 36 due to complications from Diabetes. Astarie spent most of their marriage as Steven's caretaker, putting her needs and wants aside.
But she found a creative outlet and passion producing skincare products, lotions, and soaps. She dove into learning the math and science behind creating quality skincare products. She then opened her business, Astarie Apothecary.
Listen as she shares her journey as a caregiver, a mom to son Andrew, and a busy, self-made entrepreneur.
She also shares her struggles with her faith, her legacy she would like to leave behind, and her excitement about the possibility of a joyful future.
Resources:
IG: @astarieapothecary
FB: Astarie Apothecary
Website: astariedennis.co
Also check her out on YouTube!
And please subscribe and leave us a review! We would greatly appreciate it!
Thanks for listening!
Let's make it a goal this year to buy from other widow-owned businesses! My Christmas wish is to see all of you succeed!
Pay it forward!
Let's support each other!
Resources from this episode:
-
www.widow411.com -Kim Murray
-
Tracy Deshone - Norwex products - www.tracydeshone.norwex.biz
-
www.sagacitylegal.com - Randi Karpinia
-
2 Blondes and a Babe - FB, IG, Etsy and www.2blondesandababe.com
-
Astarie Dennis - Astarie Apothecary on IG and FB and
www.Astariedennis.co.
If you would like to promote your biz on the podcast, DM me on FB or IG @widow_180.
Please subscribe to the podcast and leave a sweet review! I would appreciate it!
Christine Jameson's husband Kyle fought a hard fight against cancer before passing away in 2015.
Christine and Kyle had a baby boy Liam at the time of Kyle's passing, but their dream was to have a larger family.
Christine wanted to continue Kyle's legacy by bringing another baby of his into the world.
Christine chose to do fertility treatments in the Fall of 2019. Shortly thereafter she found out she was pregnant with Kyle's baby. Her healthy, beautiful baby girl Kylie was born on September 28, 2020.
Hear Christine's story of making the tough decision to have another baby on her own and navigating her pregnancy in the middle of the COVID pandemic.
Resources in this episode:
MiracleBabies Facebook group
Remember you can always reach us at:
IG: widow_180
Facebook: Widow 180 Community
www.widow180.com
email: jen@widow180.com
Kristin Kirk lost her fiance Nathan when their son Eli was only 5 months old. Kristin found herself alone with only $300 in her bank account to support herself and her baby son.
It was then that she told herself "This is make it or break it time and not making it is not an option." Kristin did a complete 180 with her life. She found her strength and began to trust herself and her choices. She went back to school, found an incredible job that she loved, and continued her journey to healing.
She then found a mentor and business coach that encouraged her to start her online business, Babes On A Budget, a pre-order online boutique on Facebook.
She has also created a thriving community on Facebook called "Together We Are Stronger" where people can come together to discuss struggles with mental health and depression.
Kristin has found purpose in her son and through her work as a mentor and mental health coach.
You can find Kristin on Facebook at:
Babes On A Budget
and
Together We Are Stronger
Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review and share it with a friend! We greatly appreciate the support!
Join our Facebook Community at Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
To advertise your Widowbiz on the podcast, call 985-807-1026 and leave a detailed voice message about your biz! The recording will be aired on the WidowBiz Weekend Edition of the podcast!
Autumn Toelle-Jackson became a young widow when her husband, Joe passed away unexpectedly while out on a run one night. Autumn had to learn to pick up the pieces of what was left of her life with her two young sons.
She candidly talks to us today about what her grieving process was like, how her family and community rallied around to support her.
She found new love with a co-worker, Kyle, and the two began a new life together. They welcomed a baby girl, Rylie Marie, in July 2018. Three months later, they were devastated when Rylie suddenly passed away.
Autumn has suffered insurmountable loss in her life. She decided to pour her experience and emotions into a book she wrote called "Boldly Into The Darkness: Living With Loss, Growing With Grief, And Holding On To Happiness".
You can find her book at all retailers.
You can reach Autumn on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and her website Growing With Grief.
Be sure to join our Facebook group at Widow 180 Community.
And we have a few more days left to sign up for The Widow's Holiday Survival Club 2020!
Join us for some fun this holiday season. There will be activities and guest speakers and Zoom chats for the 5 week program!
It all starts Sunday November 22, 2020!
Join at www.widow180.com/holidays
This is the FIRST WidowBiz Weekend Edition for the 2020 holiday season!
Each Sunday we will hear from different widows who have a business, service, side hustle, or product that they adore. They will tell us all about themselves and the things they sell or do and give us the info on where we can find them to purchase!
We all have to shop for Christmas anyway, so why not support other widows and their businesses, right?!
Let's help each other out!
My Christmas wish this year is that each and every one of you has a successful and happy holiday!
Here are the links for this episode:
-
Rebecca Robins - Beyond Your Comfort Zone Coaching - www.byczcoaching.com
-
Anita Woods - Scentsy consultant - www.anitawoods.scentsy.us - 832-584-6012
-
Lysandra VanderHart - Norwex consultant - www.lysnadravanderhart.norwex.biz - www.cleanlivinginfo.com - cleanlivingcontact@gmail.com
-
Kristin Kirk - Babes on a Budget (Facebook page) online boutique
-
Kerith Amen - BeautyCounter consultant - www.beautycounter.com/kerithamen - kerithamen@gmail.com
-
Crystalyn Aucoin - jewelry designer -www.womenbuyjewelry.com
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK at Widow 180 Community if you would like to promote on the podcast!
Also check out www.widow180.com/holidays to register for our Widow's Holiday Survival Club 2020!
Valentine's Day 2013 was the pivotal turning point in Marks and Kim's life. Mark was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer and given a year to live.
Mark passed away February 2, 2014 leaving Kim to run the family business and care for their two boys. She tried to cope by keeping herself distracted with work and by travelling nonstop for two years. She found that running from her grief was not the answer.
She started a blog called Widow 411 in 2018 and it became an integral part of her healing process.
She then wrote a book called "The Ultimate Survival Guide For Widows." This book is a collection of templates and budgets and checklists of all the things that widows have to do after the loss of their spouse.
Kim wants to show other widows that anything is possible if you believe it first.
Join Widow 180 Community on Facebook
Be a part of "The Widow's Holiday Survival Club 2020" at:
https://www.widow180.com/holidays
Here are the references from this episode:
https://humanparts.medium.com/how-would-you-handle-a-death-sentence-bf1d0dc32e8b
https://www.widow411.com/101-inspiring-stories-of-finding-love-in-unlikely-places/
www.widow411.com
https://widow411.podia.com/the-ultimate-survival-guide-for-widows
Stephanie Mosley's husband Rob went for a late afternoon run on August 20, 2017. He was struck by a speeding pick-up truck going 55 mph in a 25 mph zone and died instantly.
Through the grace of God, Stephanie knew immediately that she would not carry a burden of hatred or anger towards the person who killed her husband. She chose to forgive.
And it's this forgiveness that brings peace to her heart and her mind.
She continues to honor Rob by running marathons and triathlons with #RunForRob. She also honors other widows by providing free photo sessions for widows and their families, taking family photos after the loss of the spouse.
You can find Stephanie on Instagram:
@Steph_undaunted
And find the latest blog post at www.widow180.com/resources/forgive
"The 4 Key Things You Need To Know About Forgiveness In Order To Forgive Someone"
Join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community
Instagram @widow_180
On June 24, 2016, Dawn Noahubi's husband Lem died tragically when the Polaris he was driving flipped over and killed him instantly. Their children were 7 and 2 at the time. Dawn spent several months in a blur of grief.
A timely renovation gave her the opportunity to demo a wall for the first time. And she was hooked! She started with a bathroom renovation, that led to a kids' clubhouse renovation, that then led to her business flipping houses. Restored Life Properties was born.
Dawn found love again with her business partner, Stefan, and the happy family of four are now enjoying life on a 7 acre farm, complete with ducks, donkeys, goats, and pigs!
She has started a local widows group in Oklahoma City called "Sisters of Widowhood".
Dawn credits her Type A personality, her love of goal-setting, and her penchant for always learning new things with helping her heal through her grief.
You can find her on Facebook at:
Buttered Up Bacon Farms
Restored Life Properties
The Nest Ultrasound Clinic
and www.lovelikelem.com
Much of our conversation talked about PTSD.
If you think you may be suffering from PTSD, but you're not sure, TAKE THIS QUIZ to find out:
https://episode1.ck.page/ptsd-quiz
or take the quiz at www.widow180.com!
Follow us on FB for deeper discussions and more info:
Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
On July 7, 2019 Tricia Shyver lost her husband Nate in a tragic car accident.
In a matter of months she went from being a stay at home mom to owner of several businesses. She had always dreamed of owning her own business, being her own boss, and having that flexibility to be with her kids anytime.
She opened Naturaleigh Baby Boutique and Toy Shoppe, a natural parenting store and recently bought a cloth diaper company called "Happy Heiny".
Tricia is focused on promoting high quality, eco-friendly baby products.
She has managed her grief by finding purpose again, finding the positives in life, and seeing the possibilities of a bright and successful future.
You can find her at the following:
Facebook: Naturaleigh Baby Boutique and Toy Shoppe
NaturaleighOBKY.com
Join us on IG @widow_180
Take the QUIZ to find out if you have suffered from PTSD!
Go to https://episode1.ck.page/ptsd-quiz
or go to www.widow180.com
Dana was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma at the young age of 28. Four years later her husband Brad was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer. He died 100 days later.
During his few short months of treatment, Bard and Dana documented their cancer journey through a series of podcast discussions on a website called DefendingYourLife.us.
Dana then started the Forced Joy Project to document the small things that brought them joy every single day. She then expanded the business to start Book Of Stories. Dana collects stories from clients and compiles them into beautiful, custom linen-bound book.
Dana realized that for her, what she wanted more than anything after Brad died was to hear stories of him. Now she wants to bring that feeling of familiarity and comfort to other widows and families by paying a beautiful tribute to the husband they lost.
You can find more information on where to purchase a Book Of Stories at www.ForcedJoyProject.com.
You can also find Forced Joy Project on FB and IG.
And go to www.widow180.com to find out more information on all of the resources in this episode.
Share this episode with someone who needs it! And subscribe!
Petra Gordon was only 38 years old when she became a widow. Faced with financial struggles and legal paperwork burdens, Petra turned to her faith in God after her husband Ian passed away.
She poured her heart and soul into her inspirational book, Faith In The Fire.
She then answered a calling that kept coming to her and asking her "What about the widow?"
She became a widow life coach to help other widows facilitate their grief and give them the tools they need to move forward.
Petra discovered that by serving others it has helped her own healing.
Go to www.widow180.com for all resources from this episode.
Find Petra's book "Faith In The Fire" on Amazon.
Join our Facebook group at Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck!
Briana Dolbear can tell you that her life is anything but normal. She and her husband Owen were living small town life in rural Montana, enjoying life with their 7 daughters when tragedy struck. Owen was killed in a horrible farming accident in front of Briana and their 5 year old daughter.
Briana found herself a 33 year old widow, solo-mom to 7 girls, and sole owner of a 5,000 acre ranch in Montana.
With the overwhelming support of her friends, family, and community Briana was able to keep and sustain the ranch, all while navigating through grief alongside her children.
She chronicles her journey, her loss, what she did to cope, her struggles with her in-laws, and how she was able to move forward. She ultimately met Chad, who would become her husband and the two have embarked on a new life together, along with their adopted son, Silas, added to the family!
Briana's story is truly unique!
You can reach her on facebook at Briana Murnion Dolbear or see her videos on TikTok @thenormalfamily.
Her must read books include:
-
Grace For the Widow
-
The Healing Power of Love
And if you're thinking of dating again, but you're not sure about it.....TAKE THIS QUIZ to find out if you're ready!
https://episode1.ck.page/dating-quiz
Also join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
Nikki Mitropoulas never imagined losing her young husband in a horrific motorcycle accident. Being 8 months pregnant at the time, she faced the reality that her son would never know his father. Her son Danny was born just days after his father, Daniel passed away.
Nikki spent the next several years raising her son. By chance one night while having drinks with friends, Nikki saw an ad for appearing on a dating show. She and her friends applied that same night.
Producers called Nikki the very next day and she was chosen to be on the show, The Single Wives. The whole experience proved to be life-changing for Nikki, who had been living a life of fear and pain and grief.
In the interview she talks about taking new chances, overcoming fear, and giving life a chance!
You can reach Nikki on Facebook at Nikki Mitropoulas and Instagram @nikkimetro
Are YOU ready to date again?
If you're not sure, you need to TAKE THIS QUIZ to find out if you're ready!
here's the link: https://episode1.ck.page/dating-quiz
Or email me any dating questions at jen@widow180.com
or message me on facebook at Widow180 Community with Jen Zwinck
When her husband Kevin was diagnosed with ALS in May 2015, Laurice Duffy decided she was going to be his number 1 cheerleader for hope. As his health started to decline, she knew in her heart the reality of the situation they were facing. She enrolled in a life coach course while her husband was sick and while she was raising 4 boys!
She needed something of her own to carry her through the tough times ahead. She became a certified life coach and started her business, A Mindful Journey, shortly after Kevin passed in 2018.
You can find Laurice in her very active Facebook community called Rise, where she coaches women to lead a fulfilled and satisfied life.
As Laurice says, "The game must go on!"
Mark Rivera, NYPD police officer and father, lost his life at the young age of 37 after having a sudden heart attack in March of 2015.
Abby Rivera became a young widow in an instant.
In the interview this week we discuss Abby's first weeks of widowhood, how she became interested in weight loss and used that as a distraction from her grief.
But as she started seeing amazing weight loss results, 50 pounds to be exact, she wanted to share her results and success with everyone!
Abby believed in the products she was using, so much so that she started selling them herself and subsequently started to see her side hustle business really take off.
Her life has completely transformed. She found her passion and by authentically sharing her weight loss success, she is reaping the benefits of a full time income and enjoying the freedom to work from home to be there to raise her son.
You can find Abby at the following:
Facebook and Instagram at TheBadAssKetoMom
Her private FB group is The Bad Ass Keto Mom Kommunity
or go to
AbbyRivera.challenge.com
Find lists, tips, resources, and stories at www.widow180.com
Rick Gardache was only 44 years old when he passed away suddenly on October 9, 2017 from an unknown heart condition.
His wife Carrie was left to raise their two teenage children.
Carrie opens up about some self destructive behavior that she had to overcome. She was able to course correct and make a plan to get her life back under control.
Being a registered dietitian, she knows the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She shares some nutrition tips with us today and shows us how we can all take back control of our health and well-being.
Carrie shares some amazing, quick, easy HEALTHY recipes here:
https://episode1.ck.page/recipes
Leave us a rating and review today!
Join us on Facebook: Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
IG: @widow_180
In July 2018, Randi Karpinia lost her husband David suddenly from a heart attack, leaving her to raise their 13 year old daughter and run David's new law firm.
Randi talks about her struggles with PTSD and the challenges she faced as a solo mom.
She took a coaching class that changed her outlook on her future. She found her new passion in helping others through her new legal business, Sagacity Legal, where she helps entrepreneurs start and protect their businesses.
She understands the value of a strong support system, so she became a Board member for Pandora's Kids, a program that helps teens who have lost a parent.
She's done an impressive number of things in such a short period of time!
For legal advice and widow advice, you can reach Randi at www.sagacitylegal.com.
Resources in this episode:
Facebook: Pandora's Kids in Grief
www.TheTappingSolutionApp.com
Get Randi's FREE eBook here: https://artisanal-pioneer-7662.ck.page/f9c19c447e
In 2014, Michelle Hensley lost her husband after a two year battle with melanoma. She spent the next couple of years regaining her lost identity and focusing her energy on becoming a finance, grief, and life coach.
She now inspires and educates other widows on emotional and financial decisions.
She has two master's degrees, has raised seven children, and has started two successful nonprofits.
Her latest nonprofit, You Are Special, is a micro-grant program for widows who want to become self-sufficient and do something they love and start their own businesses.
You can reach Michelle at www.Michelle-Hensley.com
and www.youarespecial.org
Tina Murphy had been happily married to her husband Jamie for 10 years, on a path to living a content life with their two boys Parker and Brady. In October 2013, Jamie collapsed while playing ball with their boys in their front yard.
Tina talks to us about how she made some poor money choices, turning to shopping in order to numb her pain.
She took a coaching class that taught her how to process her emotions and take control of her thoughts.
And with her background in teaching finance, she now coaches other widows those same tools and techniques and helps them devise a strategic plan for their own emotional and financial success.
You can reach Tina on Instagram @widowswallet
and Facebook at WidowsWallet
For any other questions, you can reach us at Widow180 Community with Jen Zwinck on Facebook.
Or email me at jen@widow180.com
Thank you for listening!
Crystalyn Aucoin started her brand Crystalyn Aucoin Jewelry in 2018, two years after her husband Ryan passed away from cancer. She has taken her love of jewelry design and combined it with Ryan's love of charity to form her company.
She shares with us her story of finding out she was pregnant one month before Ryan's cancer diagnosis, how she became a caregiver and a mom all in the same year, and how her new calling on this path is helping her, but also empowering other women as well.
You can find her at:
www.CrystalynAucoin.com and www.womenbuyjewelry.com
And check out her latest designs at CrystalynAucoinJewelry on Facebook!
And Instagram @crystalynaucoinjewelry
And don't forget a % of her sales goes to cancer research!
Join us on Facebook at Widow180 Community with Jen Zwinck!
Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and tell your friends about us!
Cherie McKevitt was enjoying a week in Disney World with her family when tragedy struck and her husband, Frank, passed away suddenly. Cherie describes the events that followed. She shares how she escaped from the pain of her loss by traveling constantly, then ultimately decided to sell her home to be closer to family. She dove into the challenge of purchasing a lot, designing a home, hiring a contractor, securing the financing, and being on-site every day of construction to reach the goal of building a new home for her and her two boys. I don't know how she had the strength to do it all! Her story will motivate you to take on anything you put your mind to!
Cherie keeps the lines of communication open with her boys at all times, even when the subject matter is difficult!
Here's a free guide on how to talk to your kids about the really hard stuff: https://episode1.ck.page/talking-guide
Connect with Jen:
Instagram: @widow_180
Facebook: Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck
Website: www.widow180.com
email: jen@widow180.com
"What is my purpose?"
"What do I want from this life?"
These are questions that we face as widows.
Christine Dusang made the decision to go back to school and become a therapist after her husband Eric passed away from cancer. She became a solo-parent, busy raising two active daughters, but still found the time and made it a priority in her life to further her education. She shares the heartbreaking story of her husband's journey through battling cancer and how being a full-time caregiver takes its toll on every aspect of a family. She opens up about what it feels like to be a widow and how finding her purpose has brought her out of her deepest grief. I know you will be inspired by her story!
If you need any help or advice from Christine you can reach her at:
ChristineDusang@gmail.com
or email me at jen@widow180.com
You can find Christine's list of the "5 Sure Signs It's Time to See a Therapist" here: https://episode1.ck.page/therapy
Don't forget to Join us on Facebook at Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck!
We're on Instagram too @widow_180!
Lisette Martin was a happy housewife, busy raising her two boys, when her husband Logan died suddenly and unexpectedly on Christmas Eve. She shares with us how she was able to cope with the sudden loss, how she turned to a particular hobby that helped her get through the emotional distress, and ultimately how she started her business, Simplify By Lisette.
She helps widows feel empowered by overcoming the overwhelm and shares with us some of her simplifying tips and tricks!
You can reach out to Lisette at luckylisette@att.net
Also don't forget to join our Facebook group at Widow 180 Community with Jen Zwinck!
Follow us on Instagram @widow_180
And, Lisette shared with us 7 Creative Ways to Repurpose your Spouse's Clothes. Here's the link: https://episode1.ck.page/repurpose
Welcome to the very first episode of the Widow 180 Podcast!
In today's episode I wanted to share with you what this podcast is all about and give you a little bit of my story and who I am.
Why me? Who am I? And why am I so passionate about talking to other widows?
I believe that every widow has the capacity to endure and has the power to overcome the struggles and fear and pain from losing a spouse. I believe that every widow has the determination to create a new life filled with meaning and purpose. Each week I have the privilege of interviewing different widows, women who have suffered loss and have taken the lessons they've learned and the insights they've gained and used them to grow and transform themselves. We dive deep into conversations about how they were able to cope, how they handled the stress and overwhelm, how they were able to shift their mindset and gain a new perspective on life. I hope that you are as inspired by these stories as I am. And maybe hearing just one of these stories will really hit home for you and change your life.
Make sure to check out Widow180.com for show notes and latest blog posts!
And be sure to join our Facebook group at Widow 180 the Community with Jen Zwinck!
We are also on Instagram: @widow_180