Can You Just Sit With Me? with Natasha Smith: Recent Episodes
Natasha Smith
Previously “Love Drops Podcast”, now “Can You Just Sit with Me? Podcast”, relaunching Fall 2021 was created by Natasha Smith, writer, and speaker over at Lovely You Blog, where she shares stories on faith, family, and grief.
The relaunch and rebranding were inspired by a piece that was written in 2020. The world was seemingly closing in on everyone, social injustice was high, there was so much division over politics and the onset and effects of a pandemic were raging. Everything was so loud. The world was so loud and it felt as if no one was taking the time to care or to listen. It felt like grief.
And oftentimes what we need most during challenging times is for someone to sit with us while we wait for God to do the work. So, Can You Just Sit With Me?
Follow along and join the conversations across social using hashtag #canyoujustsitwithme!
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Website: http://www.lovelyyoublog.com/
In this episode, Natasha is joined by Dr. Mekel Harris, a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience. She is a TEDx speaker, magazine and podcast contributor, and author of a memoir, ‘Relaxing Into the Pain: My Journey Into Grief & Beyond.’ She brings a wealth of experience in mental health, trauma, and grief-informed leadership.
Come and sit with us. Join the conversation as we discuss how to show up for yourself and others amid grief. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- The Role of Grief Literacy
- Faith as a Companion in Grief
- The Importance of Vulnerability and Authenticity
- Supporting Those in Grief
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me and Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Relaxing Into the Pain
* Get your ticket to Grief Grows Here Summit 2026*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dr. Mekel Harris (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha is joined by Tabitha Yates, a bestselling author, speaker, and mental health advocate who’s passionate about helping people heal. Her debut book Jesus and Therapy: Bridging the Gap Between Faith and Mental Health dives into the messy, beautiful space where faith meets emotional wellness. Known online as The Redeemed Mama, Tabitha shares her journey of surviving trauma, spiritual abuse, and mental health challenges to remind others they’re not alone, and that healing is possible. I’m so excited for you to hear from Tabitha. Come and sit with us and join the conversation.
Come and sit with us. Join the conversation as we discuss the intersection of faith, grief, and mental health. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Navigating the Intersection of Faith and Therapy
* Breaking Down Stigmas Within Church Communities
* The Power of Sharing Stories
* A Call for Integration
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me and Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Jesus and Therapy*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Tabitha Yates (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this episode, Natasha is joined by Nelly Larue, whose personal journey through childhood loss, the passing of her mother, and the deep grief of losing her heart dog, Toncy, shaped her passion for supporting others.
She is certified in grief and pet loss support and, having traveled to over 70 countries studying how people grieve, Nelly now helps others navigate the intersections of grief, guilt, relationships, and spirituality.
Come and sit with us. Join the conversation as we discuss how to navigate pet loss. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Nelly’s grief story & the depth of pet loss
* Pet loss as real grief, not secondary grief
* The need for presence and companioning in grief
* Honoring pets through naming, stories & shared memories
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me and Black Woman Grief*
* Connect with Nelly on grieftails.com and https://petcloud.pet/about/nelly.php
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Nelly Larue (Guest)
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In this episode, Natasha is joined by Clarissa Moll, an award-winning writer and podcaster who helps bereaved people flourish after loss. Clarissa’s writing appears in Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, RELEVANT, Modern Loss, Grief Digest, and more.
She co-hosted Christianity Today’s “Surprised by Grief” podcast and produces Christianity Today's flagship news podcast, "The Bulletin." She is the author of four books, plus her latest work, a children’s book, Hope Comes to Stay.
Come and sit with us. Join the conversation as we discuss the grief children carry and how to come alongside them in their grief. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* How kids understand and process grief at different ages
* Why grief revisits throughout childhood and adolescence
* What adults can do to nurture resilience in grieving children
* Practical ways to support kids while honoring both joy and sorrow
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me and Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Hope Comes to Stay*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Clariissa Moll (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha is joined by Dr. Wai Jia Tam, an award-winning humanitarian doctor, keynote speaker, author, and comedian whose journey through chronic pain, trauma, and faith has inspired thousands to find God in their darkest seasons. A Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 honoree and Fulbright Scholar, she has served with the World Health Organization and UNICEF across Asia and Africa. Now based in Tanzania with her husband and two daughters, she speaks around the world on courage, obedience, and the joy of God’s healing, even when it looks like loss.
Come and sit with us. Join the conversation as we discuss how to navigate grief that comes along with identity loss and more. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- Integration of Grief
- Identity and Loss
- Faith and New Beginnings
- Hope and Unshackling
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me and Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Dream Brave*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dr. Wai Jia Tam (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha is joined by Jillian Benfield, a former journalist and news anchor, a disability advocate, Speaker, and Author of The Gift of the Unexpected and her latest book Overwhelmed & Grateful. Jillian regularly advocates for the full inclusion of people with disabilities in her writings and community, and as a part of the National Down Syndrome Congress’s National Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition.
Come and sit with us. Join the conversation as we discuss how to navigate grief and gratitude.
Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- The "Both/And" Approach to Grief and Gratitude
- Isolation and Identity Shift Through Loss
- The Role of Faith and Grace in Navigating Chaos
- Hope Through Solidarity and Resurrection
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me and Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Overwhelmed & Grateful*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Jillian Benfield (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha is joined by Dr. Zoe Shaw, a licensed psychotherapist, author, and expert on complex shame, to discuss the many faces of grief, the impact of shame, and practical steps for healing. Dr. Zoe shares her personal story, insights from her new book "Stronger in the Difficult Places," and actionable advice for listeners navigating shame and loss.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation.
Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Grief and shame show up in many forms, not just tears.
* Complex shame is deeply rooted and hard to heal without self-awareness.
* Healing starts with vulnerability, self-forgiveness, and setting boundaries.
* Restoring your relationship with yourself leads to true freedom and connection.
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me and Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Stronger in the Difficult Places*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dr. Zoe Shaw (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this episode, Natasha is joined by Dr. Barbara Peacock, a Spiritual Director and author of the award-winning book Soul Care in African American Practice and several other books. She is the Founder of Barbara L. Peacock Ministries and the Peacock Soul Care Institute.
In this conversation, Dr. Peacock helps us as Black women get back to spiritual disciplines to help us navigate grief and this grief filled life in which we live.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- Understanding Black Woman Grief
- The Power of Spiritual Disciplines
- Prayer and Its Vital Role
- Creating Space for Soul Care
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Soul Care in African American Practice*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dr. Barbara Peacock (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Aubrey Sampson, author of several books on grief, lament, and hope including The Louder Song, Known, her best-selling kids book Big Feelings Days and her newest book What We Find in the Dark. Aubrey is a church planter and teaching pastor at Renewal Church, a multiethnic congregation in the Chicagoland area, the co-host of the Nothing is Wasted Podcast, and leads The Louder Song Community, an online gathering for grievers and those walking with the hurting. I am so very honored to know her.
In this conversation, Aubrey shares what it means to be an ally, how the church can better support and come alongside Black Women and how to encourage our hearts when we experience grief from her latest work What We Find In the Dark.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Understanding Grief and Allyship
* The Role of the Church in Addressing Grief
* Naming Grief as a Path to Healing
* A Companion in Darkness
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of What We Find in the Dark*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Aubrey Sampson (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Ekemini Uwan, a public theologian, international human rights activist, and co-author of the 2023 NAACP Image Award Nominated book Truth’s Table: Black Women’s Musings on Life, Love, and Liberation. She co-hosts the award-winning podcast Truth's Table and Get In The Word With Truth’s Table. Her writings have been published in The Atlantic, The Washington Post, The Huffington Post Black Voices, and Hallmark Mahogany, and more. As one who is passionate about theology, Ekemini has a fierce commitment to the gospel and its implications for issues pertaining to reparations, racial injustice, anti-black racism, and white supremacy.
In this conversation, Ekemini shares the grief that many Black women experienced during the last presidential election—and continue to carry in its aftermath. It’s a collective grief, often held in silence, yet deeply felt. A grief that deserves space, care, and healing.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Understanding Black Woman Grief
* Embracing Activism and Advocacy
* Intersectionality in Grief and Healing
* Practical Ways to Support Black Women
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Truth's Table*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Ekemini Uwan (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Liv Dooley, a Bible teacher and the podcast host of The Best Kept Secret with Liv Dooley, which has featured some of the leading teachers and burgeoning ministry leaders of our day. Liv is passionate about helping people enjoy greater intimacy and authority in Christ Jesus through prayer. She shares her heart about the church, grief and sisterhood.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Creating Safe Spaces
* Navigating Church and Grief
* The Role of Collaboration
* The Power of Community and Accountability
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Selah-Bible Study Guide with Video Access: A Study of 1 and 2 Samuel*
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Liv Dooley (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Dawn Mann Sanders, an associate minister and has written and taught extensively on overcoming adversity and creating a new life, and she is the author of When Your World Ends: God’s Creative Process for Rebuilding.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Unspoken Grief
* Breaking the Silence
* Navigating Cultural and Societal Forces
* Rebuilding Through Faith and Community
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of When Your World Ends*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dawn Mann Sanders (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this episode, Natasha sits with Christina Patterson, Founder of Beloved Women, author, speaker. and bible teacher. Christina walks alongside women everyday encouraging them in the Word of God and in this episode she shares Biblical Encouragement for Black Women navigating grief.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* The Power of Presence in Grief
* Finding Peace in Scripture
* Embracing Emotional Authenticity
* The Importance of Community Support
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief*
* Join Beloved Women
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Christina Patterson (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Jodi Grubbs, Slow Living Advocate and author of Live Slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exhale. In this conversation, we talk about the power of living slowly and what it means to come alongside Black Women.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Understanding Through Presence
* Empathy as a Strength
* The Power of Living Slowly
* Intentional Listening and Allyship
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Live Slowly*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Jodi Grubbs (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this episode, Natasha sits with Dr. Natasha Sistrunk Robinson, a writer, speaker, leadership consultant, and mentoring coach. A former Marine Corps officer and U.S. Naval Academy graduate, Natasha has nearly 2 decades of experience in leadership and discipleship across military, government, church, and nonprofit spaces. She’s the founder of Leadership LINKS, Inc., author of Mentor for Life and Hope for Us, and editor of Voices of Lament. In this powerful conversation we dive into discipleship, mentorship, sponsorship, and how we can faithfully walk through Black Woman Grief with God and community.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Understanding Black Woman Grief
* The Role of Community in Healing
* Mentorship and Leadership with Purpose
* Creating Safe Spaces for Grief and Lament
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of A Sojourner's Truth*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dr. Natasha Sistrunk Robinson (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha kicks off Season 7 with this ten-episode series with Dr. Quantrilla Ard. The episode serves as a rallying cry for Black women to embrace their full emotional spectrum and to create a balanced life filled with rest, resilience, and joy. Dr. Ard's vulnerability and insights remind us all that the journey through grief and strength is personal, and there is power in sharing and living our truths.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* The Strong Black Woman Stereotype
* Navigating Expectations and Setting Boundaries
* Deconstructing and Reframing Strength
* Honoring Resilience Without Pressure
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief*
* Join the It's All Grief To Me Community
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dr. Quantrilla Ard (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Sheila Wise Rowe, MEd, author of award winning "Healing Racial Trauma" and "Young Gifted and Black," to explore the complexities of identity formation, trauma, and the journey towards healing.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation, Sitting with Black Woman Grief, an exclusive podcast series on the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Understanding Racial and Ethnic Trauma
* The Exhaustion of Identity Challenges
* Coping Mechanisms and Community Support
* The Path to Healing and Hope
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Black Woman Grief
* Get your copy of Healing Leadership Trauma*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Sheila Wise Rowe, MEd (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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Every loss is worthy of the space and grace to grieve. Sitting With Black Woman Grief is an exclusive podcast series dedicated to giving space and voice to the specific loss and grief experienced by Black Women. Black woman grief is real and it is valid.
In this ten-episode series, host Natasha Smith, author of Black Woman Grief (and Can You Just Sit With Me) sits with guests and invite them to share their Black Woman grief experience as a Black Woman or ally. Offering solidarity, compassion, hope, and support for those navigating Black Woman grief and those who come alongside us.
Dear Black Woman,
My hope is that as you listen to this series, you will feel seen, heard, and understood. And that you will sense the hand of the Lord covering you with love, hope, and strength.
And for those who serve and support Black Women, I pray you find this series informative, helpful, and hope filled.
Get Black Woman Grief book here or wherever books are sold.
Subscribe and listen to past seasons of the Can You Just Sit With Me? Podcast here
About the Host:
Natasha Smith (here)
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this episode, Natasha sits with Chelsea Ohlemiller. She is the author of the new book Now That She's Gone, a book about her own journey of grief at the loss of her mother. Known for her blog, Happiness, Hope & Harsh Realities, Chelsea's work can be found featured in the national bestseller “So God Made a Mother” and two Chicken Soup for the Soul books, also published online by platforms such as Her View From Home, (in)Courage, Love What Matters and more. You don't want to miss this special episode, closing out Season 6.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation.
Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- The Continuing Journey of Grief
- The Role of Faith in Healing
- Coping with Holidays and Traditions
- Hope and Encouragement
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of Now That She's Gone*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Chelsea Ohlemiller (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this episode, Natasha sits with Corine E. Phillips, a wife and mom, originally from Cameroon, she now calls the US home. She is the author of When I Lost My Son to Him, where she shares her heartfelt story of losing her 2-year-old son Caleb, a story of loss and love that she hopes will bring comfort to parents who have experienced similar heartbreak.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation.
Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* A Story of Reckless Love
* Honoring our loved ones
* Navigating uncertainty and trusting God
* Faith amid heartbreaking loss
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of When I Lost My Son To Him*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Corine E. Phillips (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with George Ackerman, PhD,Sharon’s son, works in the fields of law, police, and education. George lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman on 1/1/2020 due to Parkinson’s Disease.
He wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause and did not know how to bring change. TogetherForSharon® was started as a family for the purpose of keeping his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.
Come and sit with us and join this important conversation.
Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- George's Personal Story and advocacy work
- Importance of unity in the fight against Parkinson's disease
- Importance of raising awareness
- The broader impact of Parkinson's
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Connect with Together For Sharon organization*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
George Ackerman (Guest)
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Dawn Sanders,an associate minister at First Baptist Church of Glenarden (FBCG), where she serves as the director of the sermon-based life groups ministry. Dawn has written and taught extensively on overcoming adversity and creating a new life and she includes a roadmap of just how to do this in her new book When Your World Ends: God’s Creative Process for Rebuilding a Life.
So come and sit with us and join the conversation. This is part 2 of 2 of our conversation. Be sure to listen to part 1 to get the full conversation. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- Embracing the creative process of rebuilding
- Importance of witnessing grief
- Importance of support
- God's presence during difficult times
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of When Your World Ends*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dawn Sanders (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this episode, Natasha sits with Dawn Sanders,an associate minister at First Baptist Church of Glenarden (FBCG), where she serves as the director of the sermon-based life groups ministry. Dawn has written and taught extensively on overcoming adversity and creating a new life and she includes a roadmap of just how to do this in her new book When Your World Ends: God’s Creative Process for Rebuilding a Life.
So come and sit with us and join the conversation. This is part 1 of our conversation. Be sure to listen to part 2 to get the full conversation. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- Embracing the creative process of rebuilding
- Importance of witnessing grief
- Importance of support
- God's presence during difficult times
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of When Your World Ends*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dawn Sanders (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this episode, Natasha sits with Sara Schneider,a 3x NICU mom to three boys, two on earth and one in Heaven. She is the founder of Bowen Walker Foundation, a national nonprofit serving grieving and bereaved children after trauma and loss, and author of the new book One Mother of a Miracle.
As always, you will find this conversation both helpful as well as hopeful, so come and sit with us and join the conversation. Please let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- Challenges of Sustained Support in Grief
- Parenting While Grieving
- The Importance of Honest Communication
- Faith as a Foundation of Strength
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of One Mother of a Miracle*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Sara Schneider (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Kelsey Scism,a wife, mother, former language arts teacher, and author of her new book One Year With Jesus. Kelsey shares her personal story of loss and grief and how her new book will help young readers in their faith.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation and let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- The power of presence
- Transforming tragedy into purpose
- Developing spiritual muscles early on
- Building community and conversation
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Connect with One Year With Jesus*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Kelsey Scism (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this episode, Natasha sits with Alisha Reginal. She is a faith-filled Christian, wife, and mother of two boys. After the stillbirth of their first son, Travis Jr., she and her husband founded Remembering My Child, an organization that helps bereaved parents grieve and cherish their children's memories.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation and let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- The emotional and mental challenges
- The role of faith and the support systems
- Practical advice and personal anecdotes to offer hope and guidance
- Helpful organizations for remembering your child after loss
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Connect with Rememering My Child*
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Alisha Reginal (Guest)
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In this epiosde, Lea Turner, author of The Freedom To Feel, joins Natasha for a conversation on how to find God in the midst of grief and trauma. Leah graciously shares her experiences navigating multiple losses including her father's cancer, her mother's cancer diagnosis, a tragic house fire, and her son's struggle with addiction. This episode is chalked with so many truths about the harsh realities of grief as well as the hope we can find in the midst of it.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation and let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- Navigating Multiple Losses
- Confronting Grief
- Importance of Community
- Finding Strength Through Faith
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of The Freedom to Feel*
Connect on Socials:
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Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Lea Turner (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
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In this epiosde, Lisa Appelo, author of Life Can Be Good Again, joins Natasha for a conversation on how to sit with life after loss. Lisa, no stranger to grief after the sudden death of her husband, offers a hopeful, yet realistic and gentle perspective on what life can look like when we invite God into our brokenness. She shares how faith can guide us through the pain and help us rediscover hope in the midst of loss.
Come and sit with us and join the conversation.
Let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Emotional struggle of grief
* God's faithfulness amid hard times
* The power of gratititude
* God as our Helper
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of Life Can Be Good Again*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Lisa Appelo (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Annie Sklaver Orenstein, a qualitative researcher, oral historian, and storyteller who has spent over adecade collecting stories from people around the world joins Natasha for a much needed conversation on Sibling Loss. They discuss Annie's latest book, Always A Sibling: The Forgotten Mourner's Guide to Grief, a practical, compassionate guide to sibling loss, with research, stories, and strategiesfrom someone who’s been there.
Tune in and join the conversation. Let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Acknowledging the Unique Grief of Sibling Loss
* Identity and the Loss of a Sibling
* The Power of Sharing Stories and Research
* Moving Forward and Honoring Siblings
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of Always A Sibling*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Annie Sklaver Orenstein (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Summer Gross, an Anglican priest rooted in the Christian classics and author of The Emmanuel Promise sits with Natasha to chat about sitting with grief and The Emmanuel Promise.
Tune in and join the conversation. Let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Spiritual Direction and the Emmanuel Promise
* Attachment Theory and Its Impact
* Bridging Attachment and Spiritual Practices
* Importance of Secure Attachment with God
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of The Emmanuel Promise*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Summer Gross (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Natasha sits with Jodi Grubbs, a slow living advocate, author, and podcast host. They discuss Jodi's latest book, Live Slowly: A Gentle Invitation to Exhale, which encourages readers to integrate slow living practices into their busy lives. Jodi shares personal stories of loss and the importance of taking time to reflect, be present, and accept life’s uncontrollable moments.
Tune in and join the conversation. Let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- The need to slow down
- The S.L.O.W. acronym
- When slow is chosen for us
- Ways to shift to a slower pace
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of Live Slowly*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Jodi Grubbs (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Natasha sits with Liv Dooley, Bible Teacher, Podcast Host of The Best Kept Secret Podcast with Liv Dooley and author of the new books Selah: A Study of 1 and 2 Samuel and Expectant: 31 Prayers to Help You Prepare for Your Baby Girl. We chat about unanswered prayer, unmet expectation, and navigating disappointments with God. Liv brings such a fresh perspective from her lived experiences and biblical wisdom.
Tune in and join the conversation. Let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Navigating Disappointments
* Worship as an anchor for life's storms
* Embracing worship and community
* Trusting God in times of disappointment
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of Selah: A Study of 1 and 2 Samuel
* Get your copy of Expectant: 31 Prayers to Help You Prepare for Your Baby Girl*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Liv Dooley (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Natasha sits with Emily Lawson, a Communications Director and author of the new book Cracks In My Cup: Reflections on Motherhood and Loss. We chat about the loss of a parent, fostercare and adoption and associated grief in motherhood. This is such a needed conversation.
Listen in and join the conversation. Let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
* Writing as a Path to Healing
* The Duality of Motherhood and Loss
* Navigating Complex Emotions
* God's Presence in Our Grief
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of Cracks In My Cup*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Emily Lawson (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Natasha sits with Leanne Friesen, an ordained minister and author of the new book Grieving Room: Making Space for All the Hard Things after Death and Loss. We chat about the concept of giving oneself and others the space to mourn, and discuss personal stories of loss and healing. I love her perspective and this conversation around sibling loss as well.
Listen in and join the conversation. Let us know what resonates with you.
Main points:
- Navigating Sibling Loss
- Finding Grieving Room
- The Challenges Within Church Settings
- Words of Hope for Grievers
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of Grieving Room*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Leanne Friesen (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Natasha sits with Aubrey Sampson, an author of several books including The Louder Song, Known, and her latest best selling kids book Big Feelings Days. This is probably going to be the most joyous episode you will hear about grief. I loved it so much and so will you. So listen in and join the conversation.
Main points:
- Children and Grief: A World Overlooked
- Learning the Language of Lament
- Practical Tools for Navigating Big Feelings
- Hope on the Horizon
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get your copy of The Louder Song, Known, and Big Feelings Days* by Aubrey Sampson.
* Join The Louder Song community on Substack here.
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Aubrey Sampson (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Natasha sits with Dr. Quantrilla Ard, a passionate behavioral scientist, a lived experiences expert, and loss and grief coach. She holds a doctoral degree in Health Psychology and is an advocate and champion for social and reproductive justice with a focus on Black maternal and infant health and mortality. This episode is so rich and hits deep. Listen in and join the conversation.
Main points:
* You Are Not Alone: The Power of Community
* Embracing Hope: Knowing Grief Has an Expiration Date
* Finding Strength in Vulnerability: Sharing Stories of Loss and Resilience
* Recognizing and Acknowledging the Possibility of Joy Amid Grief
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here.
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?*
* Join the It's All Grief To Me Community here.
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Dr. Quantrilla Ard (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Natasha sits with Claire Bidwell Smith, a licensed therapist and author of her 5th book Conscious Grieving: A Transformative Approach to Healing from Loss. Claire is a well of knowledge, sharing from her lived experience and years working in hospice and private practice. Listen in and join the conversation.
Main points:
* Conscious grieving as a new framework for the stages of grief.
* The value of companionship and supportive relationships.
* Grief as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery.
* Acknowledging the beauty and interconnectedness present in grief.
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get Conscious Grieving* by Claire Bidwell Smith
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Claire Bidwell Smith (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this epiosde, Natasha sits with Whitney K. Pipkin, a journalist and author of her new book We Shall All Be Changed: How Facing Death with Loved Ones Transforms Us. Whitney writes from a place of lived grief after facing the death of her mom to cancer. You will fnid this conversation engaging, informing, as well as comforting. Listen in and join the conversation.
Main points:
- Embracing Grief as a Path to Healing
- The Theology of Death
- Finding Strength in Vulnerability
- Living in Light of the End
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get We Shall All Me Changed* by Whitney K. Piplin
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest:
Natasha Smith (Host)
Whitney K. Pipkin (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
Natasha sits with Sarah Bell, Grief Educator and creator of Life, Loss and Hope. Sarah brings a wealth of wisdom and knowledge from her years of service as a Hospice Chaplain and lived grief experience. Come and sit with us and join the conversation.
Main points:
- Honoring our individual paths of healing
- Facing the storm head-on
- Finding hope in the person of Jesus Christ
- Healing through shared stories
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?*
* Subscribe to Life, Loss, and Hope on YouTube
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest(s)
Natasha Smith (Host)
Sarah Bell (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
Natasha sits with Chuck & Ashley Elliott, authors of I Used To Be___: How to Navigate Large and Small Losses in Life and Find Your Path Forward. Chuck and Ashley uniquely combines their professional backgrounds in pastoral care and licensed counseling, respectively, to guide others through grief. Their insights offer not only practical advice but also a compassionate understanding of grief's impact on intimate relationships and personal growth.
Main points:
* Navigating Identity and Loss
* Discussion of The Three A's of Change
* Navigating Intimate Relationships
* Providing a message of Hope and Legacy
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get Chuck & Ashley Elliott's book I Used To Be___*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest(s)
Natasha Smith (Host)
Chuck and Ashley Elliott (Guests)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
Natasha sits with Rachel Marie Kang, author of her latest work The Matter of Little Losses. Rachel guides us into focusing attention to life's small details and losses. She highlights the therapeutic role of personal storytelling, art in mirroring grief, and practical spiritual coping mechanisms. The conversation explores acknowledging all kinds of losses and why it all matters.
Main points:
* The importance of vulnerability and connection.
* The role of storytelling, both personal and artistic.
* Practical spiritual practices as tangible ways to cope with loss.
* Small (and big) things shape our lives.
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get Rachel Marie Kang's book The Matter of Little Losses*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest(s)
Natasha Smith (Host)
Rachel Marie Kang (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
Natasha kicks off Season 5 in conversation with Theo Boyd, author of Your Grief Is Not Like Mine. Her story has been described as one where "you just can't make this stuff up". You don't want to miss this one!
Main points:
* We are not alone in the depth of our grief.
* Learn about the therapeutic effects of writing out grief.
* Presence is powerful for those who are grieving.
* Hope is possible amid grief.
Helpful Links:
Join the newsletter | Sign up for monthly encouragement from Natasha here
* Get your copy of Can You Just Sit With Me?
* Get Theo Boyd's book Your Grief Is Not Like Mine*
Connect on Socials:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Host & Guest(s)
Natasha Smith (Host)
Theo Boyd (Guest)
Support the Podcast:
Become a monthly Partner
In this episode, I sit with Beth Allen Slevcove, Author of Broken Hallelujahs: Learning to Grieve the Big and Small Losses of Life.
Beth says, “We have this pressure to not give our grief the amount of time, attention, and space and help...that leads to moving through/metabolizing [grief]. That [the grief] will turn into something useful and helpful. More compassionate, more understanding. Give us a deeper ability to love and see the beauty in life. This is what can naturally happen if we give it space and help that it needs.”
Episode resources (affiliate):
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
Broken Hallelujahs: Learning to Grieve the Big and Small Losses of Life by Beth Allen Slevcove
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this episode, I sit with Mel Lawrenz, Author of A Chronicle of Grief: Finding Life After Traumatic Loss
Mel says, “Survival means to live through…Surviving is a positive thing. It’s God-honoring to say life goes on and I’m gonna go on. If someone thinks, well you can certainly do better than surviving…Well yeah, eventually. You can thrive. There comes a day when you can have a smile on your face when you remember your loved one, when you can get back to some things that have been more normal in life. But if where you’re at right now, is just making through, just surviving, there’s nothing shameful about that. That is God-honoring."
Mel Lawrenz trains an international network of Christian leaders, ministry pioneers, and thought-leaders. He has a Ph.D. in the history of Christian thought (Marquette University) and has been on the adjunct faculty of the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee and Trinity International University. He served as senior pastor of Elmbrook Church in Brookfield, Wisconsin for ten years and now serves as Elmbrook’s minister at large, teaching in North America, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. He has authored 18 books with Zondervan, Baker, Jossey-Bass, Leadership Network, Regal, and others.
Episode resources (affiliate):
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
A Chronicle of Grief: Finding Life After Traumatic Loss by Mel Lawrenz
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this episode, I sit with my new friend Rachel Lohman, Author of Miscarried Hope: Journeying with Jesus through Pregnancy and Infant Loss.
Rachel says, “One thing we lose sight of so often is we know what comes after Good Friday, we know what comes after Saturday and we love to skip past that…thank goodness for the hope we find in resurrection Sunday. But when I stepped back and looked at all of these emotions that they [the disciples] walked through in a fairly short period of time. I thought, this is so similar to the emotional experience of a Loss Mom.”
Rachel Lohman holds a Master's Degree in Theology and Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary. She is a mom, pastor, speaker, and founder of Hope Again Collective, a handmade jewelry line that shares the stories of loss moms. She and her husband Mark currently lead a bilingual church in Southern California. For speaking inquiries or to connect with Rachel, visit rachellohman.com.
Episode resources (affiliate):
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
Miscarried Hope: Journeying with Jesus through Pregnancy and Infant Loss
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
Terra McDaniel talks about lament as an antidote to despair and hopelessness. She says, “Lament doesn’t mean getting stuck in grief…[instead] it is the freedom to express all kinds of pain related to all kinds of losses and to invite the presence of God into them.”
In this episode, I sit with Terra McDaniel, Author of Hopeful Lament: Tending Our Grief Through Spiritual Practices to chat about Sitting with Hopeful Lament in Grief.
Terra is a spiritual director and teacher who loves making space for people of all ages to tune into the holy and their own souls. She believes that being created in God’s image is the truest thing about each of us. She received an MDiv with a concentration in spiritual formation from Portland Seminary. Terra lives in Austin, Texas with her husband and two rescue dogs. She’s very thankful her daughter, son-in-law, and twin grandchildren live close by.
Episode resources (affiliate):
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
Hopeful Lament: Tending Our Grief Through Spiritual Practices by Terra McDaniel
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
“Yes, I fully believe God is good and is with us at every step, but also, that doesn’t guarantee outcomes…so yeah. That is not an easy tidbit to accept”, writes Katie Schnack.
In this episode, I sit with Katie Schnack, Author of Everything Is (NOT) Fine to chat about Sitting with Hard Feelings When Everything is Not Fine.
Katie Schnack is a writer who has been featured in outlets like Romper, HelloGiggles, ScaryMommy, XOJane, TODAY Parents - NBC, Relevant Magazine and more. Her next book -- which has nothing to do with waitressing, Palm Beach, or socialites, but should also give you a few laughs. For more information please visit katieschnack.com or connect with her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/katieschnack/ and Facebook at www.facebook.com/katieschnackwriter.
Episode resources (affiliate):
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
Everything is (Not) Fine: Finding Strength When Life Gets Annoyingly Difficult by Katie Schnack
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
**
Podcast co-producer: Emma Fillinger
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
“I think the question I really wanted answered at the beginning was the why questions…then prayer partners, friends, and ministers helped me to see that the more important questions are the who and the how…who is God to me and who am I going to become as a result of this thing that I’m going through”, says Liuan Huska.
Liuan Huska is a freelance writer and speaker focusing on topics of embodiment and spirituality. Her writing, on everything from chronic pain to evangelical fertility trends, appears in Christianity Today, The Christian Century, In Touch Magazine, Hyphen, Sojourners, and Church Health Reader. She lives with her husband and their three little boys in the Chicago area.
Episode resources:
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
Hurting Yet Whole: Reconciling Body and Spirit in Chronic Pain and Illness by Liuan Huska
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
Also, be sure to share, rate and review the podcast on apple podcast or wherever you stream.
Thanks so much for sitting with me.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
“Grief is not a strength-building exercise.” Clarissa writes.
Clarissa Moll is an author, a podcaster, and the young widow of author Rob Moll. Clarissa’s writing has appeared in Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, RELEVANT, Modern Loss, Grief Digest, and more. Her husband’s first book, The Art of Dying, was released in April 2021 with Clarissa’s new afterword. Clarissa is the author of Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving after Loss.
Episode resources:
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
Beyond the Darkness: A Gentle Guide for Living with Grief and Thriving after Loss by Clarissa Moll
The Art of Dying: Living Fully into the Life to Come by Rob Moll
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
When we are suffering it helps to know we are not the only one.
Wendy Alsup is an author who encourages women to engage theology for themselves. She is the author of several books including Practical Theology for Women, The Gospel-Centered Woman, and By His Wounds You Are Healed. She also teaches math at a local community college and is editor at theologyforwomen.org. She lives in Saint Matthews, South Carolina, with her two sons.
Episode resources:
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
Companions in Suffering: Comfort for Times of Loss and Loneliness by Wendy Alsup
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
“If we follow Jesus, we will experience pain.” Paul writes.
Paul Borthwick (DMin, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary) is senior consultant for Development Associates International and previously taught global Christianity at Gordon College for thirty years.
Through his speaking, writing, and resource ministry, Borthwick works to mobilize others to participate in world missions. Borthwick is an active speaker and teacher, having taught courses at Gordon College, Africa International University (Nairobi), Alliance Theological Seminary (Manila), and Lanka Bible College (Sri Lanka), plus a guest faculty position at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Previously he served for more than twenty years on the staff of Grace Chapel in Lexington, Massachusetts, first as youth pastor and then as minister of missions.
Borthwick is the author of Western Christians in Global Mission; Six Dangerous Questions to Transform Your View of the World; Great Commission, Great Compassion; and The Fellowship of the Suffering. He and his wife, Christie, have been married since 1979 and they live in Lexington, Massachusetts, when not traveling internationally.
Episode resources:
Can You Just Sit With Me: Healthy Grieving for the Losses of Life by Natasha Smith
The Fellowship of Suffering: How Hardship Shapes Us for Ministry and Mission by Paul Borthwick
Find more resources for navigating loss and grief at Natasha’s website: imnatashasmith.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so I wanted to chat about a hard yet an often-overlooked topic.
In this episode, I sit with my friend Author Jennifer (Jen) Thompson to chat about navigating a loss by suicide.
Jen says, “I feel very passionate about talking about suicide because there are some people that are suffering in silence and so many people who are struggling with their mental health. And we need to be able to have the conversations and hopefully the more we have the conversations lives can be saved.
Jen’s essays can be found in the new book, So God Made a Mother: https://amzn.to/3KUACbs
Connect with Jen: Website: https://trulyyoursjen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trulyyoursjen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trulyyoursjen/
**Get my free mini devotional “You’re Not Losing It, Life is Hard”: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML Pre-order my forthcoming book “Can You Just Sit with Me”: https://amzn.to/3MMxLE7
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
Join me as we sit with Author Katie Faris.
In this episode, we discuss the trials and sorrows of motherhood and how they are deemed grief worthy. Yet, God is Still Good. Katie shares encouragement and hope from her new book God is Still Good: Gospel Hope and Comfort for the Unexpected Sorrows of Motherhood.
Get Katie’s new book, God is Still Good: https://amzn.to/3KUACbs
Connect with Katie: Website: https://katiefaris.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katietfaris
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katietfaris/
Get my free mini devotional “You’re Not Losing It, Life is Hard”: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML Pre-order my forthcoming book “Can You Just Sit with Me”: https://amzn.to/3MMxLE7
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
Join me as we sit with Author Allison Brost.
In this episode, Allison shares her grief journey and we discuss some of the hard questions of grief and how to find hope.
Get Allison’s new book, This Side of Perfect: https://amzn.to/3GPDuoF
Connect with Allison:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllisonsBrost/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allisonsbrost/
Sitting with you,
Natasha
*Get my free mini devotional “You’re Not Losing It, Life is Hard”: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Pre-order my forthcoming book “Can You Just Sit with Me”: https://amzn.to/3MMxLE7
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
Join me as we sit with Author Jillian Benfield.
In this episode, we chat about the story behind her new book The Gift of the Unexpected, and what it means to undergo versus overcome grief of the unexpected moments of life.
Get The Gift of the Unexpected book: https://jillianbenfield.com/book/
Connect with Jillian: Website: https://jillianbenfield.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jillianbenfield
Instagram: https:// https://www.instagram.com/jillianbenfieldblog/
Get my free mini devotional “You’re Not Losing It, Life is Hard” : http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this special episode, listen to powerful moments from 2022.
Join me and sit with friends as we share on all things grief and Hope.
Connect with Natasha:
Website: https://www.imnatashasmith.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imnatashasmith
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imnatashasmith
Get my free mini devotional “You’re Not Losing It, Life is Hard” : http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
Join me as I sit with my friend Sydnei Kaplan, author of the children’s book The Heaven Phone.
In this episode, we chat about the story behind her book as well as navigating the holidays after a recent loss.
Get The Heaven Phone book: https://amzn.to/3AeZkyD
Connect with Sydnei:
Website: https://www.mom-in-the-moment.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mominthemoment1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mom_inthemoment/
Get my free mini devotional “You’re Not Losing It, Life is Hard”: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
Join me as I sit with my friend John Arthur Greene. He is a singer, songwriter, musician, and Broadway star who walks in his calling as a Storyteller, Minister, and Worship Pastor.
In this episode, you’ll hear an honest conversation about grief, shame, and our resistance to healing amid grief. Yet, how Jesus shines through the darkness when we choose to hear Him through our pain.
“God gives us the power of choice. God wants us to choose Him”. - John Arthur Greene
Connect with John:
Website: http://johnarthurgreenemusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnarthurgreenemusic/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnarthurgreene
Twitter: https://twitter.com/johnarthurg
Get my free mini devotional “You’re Not Losing It, Life is Hard”: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
Join me as I sit with my friend, Paige Pippin. She is a Wife, Mama, Attorney, and Writer who shares laughter and encouragement as God leads her on her blog as well as other publications, such as The Gospel Coalition.
In this episode, we chat about her loss story and how God is loud in our pain even in grief.
Connect with Paige:
Website: https://paigepippin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaigepippin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepaigepippin/
Get my newsletter for monthly encouragement: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this episode, I sit with my friend, Melissa Heerebout. She pastors Burnette Church in British Columbia alongside her husband and she is the Founder of Dear Sisters Magazine, an online and print lifestyle publication for Christian women.
We chat about grieving as a ministry leader, what it looks like, and where you can find hope as well as help amid grief.
Connect with Melissa and get your copy of Dear Sisters Magazine:
Website: https://www.dearsisters.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DearSistersMagazine
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearsisters_mag/
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this episode, I sit with Author, Speaker, and Grief Guide Dorina Lazo Gilmore-Young.
We chat about Dorina’s grief journey after the loss of her late husband, and how she found hope amid grief.
Connect with Dorina:
Website: https://dorinagilmore.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DorinaLazoGilmore/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorinagilmore/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DorinaGilmore
Grab Dorina’s book Walk Run Soar and pre-order Chasing God’s Glory: https://dorinagilmore.com/books/
Join Dorina’s Glorygram for encouragement and access to exclusive free resources
-->https://dorinagilmore.com/subscribe/
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In this episode, I sit with my writer friend, Author Liz Newman. We chat about the loss of her dad and how it inspired her latest book “I Look to the Mourning Sky”.
We chat about grief, faith, hope, and navigating the in-between.
Join our conversation, listen, and share.
Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/Look-Mourning-Sky-Writing-Grieving-ebook/dp/B09NML7F57
Connect with Liz:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/liznewmanwriter
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/
Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/liznewmanwriter
Get my free monthly resource-->http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this solo episode, Natasha shares a bit about her grief story and discusses the topic:
Do You Ever Get Used to Loss?
Connect with Natasha:
Website: https://lovelyyoublog.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imnatashasmith
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imnatashasmith
Get Natasha's free monthly resource: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this episode, I sit with Katie Faris, my friend and author of He Will Be Enough: How God Takes You by the Hand through Your Hardest Days.
We chat about some hard stories she has encountered and those she continues to live. Yet how God is faithful to meet us even if and even when life is unbearably hard.
Get Katie’s new book: https://www.thegoodbook.com/he-will-be-enough
Connect with Katie Faris:
Website: https://katiefaris.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katietfaris
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katietfaris/
For more encouragement get my free monthly resource: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this 2nd season opener, I sit with Amy DiMarcangelo, Author of A Hunger for More: Finding Satisfaction in Jesus When the Good Life Doesn't Fill You.
This episode will leave your spirit stirred and encouraged.
Listen as we chat about being unsettled, longing for more, loss, injustice, and how it can all point us back to Christ.
Get Amy’s latest book: A Hunger for More: https://www.crossway.org/books/a-hunger-for-more-tpb/
Connect with Amy DiMarcangelo:
Website: https://equippedformercy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/equippedformercy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterbookshelf/
For more encouragement get my free monthly resource: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/can-you-just-sit-with-me-with-natasha-smith--4123861/support.
In this special episode, I chat with Nicole Pharr of Pharr Away. A wife, mother of 2, and a successful businesswoman, who also happens to be my niece. You don’t want to miss this.
We chat about coping and celebrating Mother's Day without Mom here. Listen in, as we have a candid discussion about how to honor and celebrate Mother's Day amid grief. And how sitting with and making space for grief is helpful and often necessary for healing.
Connect with Nicole here:
https://www.instagram.com/pharr_away/
Please listen, share, and review. And for more inspiration, join my monthly email community:
http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
In this episode, Michaela Gasseling of Cowgirl Boots and Running Shoes, sits with me to share her miraculous experience of overcoming a brain tumor and the unexpected grief that followed.
She says, “sometimes you can have all the best possible outcomes and still experience grief”.
Amen to that! Listen and share.
Connect with Michaela here:
https://www.instagram.com/cowgirlbootsandrunningshoes/
https://www.cowgirlbootsandrunningshoes.com/
And for more inspiration, join my monthly email community:
http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
In this episode, you will meet Whitney Harris. She shares her powerful story of the hope, redemption, and freedom she found only in Jesus. Her story is filled with God's amazing love and grace. And her story testifies that no matter where you find yourself, even if it is the darkest and deepest pit, there is still hope in Jesus.
Revelation 12:11 NIV says, "They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony".
Thank you Whitney for sharing your story with us! Connect with Whitney via email at waharris1@liberty.edu
And for more encouragement, connect with Natasha via her monthly newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
“I can’t believe Daddy’s gone”, is what I found myself thinking just the other day…it made me think of similar expressions in relation to the 5 Stages of Grief. In particular, the 1st stage of grief: Denial.
So, this episode touches on when we say, “I can’t believe they’re gone”. Is it really denial?
Listen and share.
References for this episode:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/denial
https://dictionary.apa.org/denial
The Grieving Brain: https://amzn.to/36aNxWx
On Death and Dying: https://amzn.to/3NamN9a
Get this months free resource: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
In this episode, I chat with my friend, Tabitha Yates, Writer and Mental Health Advocate about moving beyond the ashes. She says, “You don’t have to live your life in ruin…you don’t have to live in the ashes”.
Listen as Tabitha shares her powerful testimony of redemption. Share with friends and family who need this encouragement.
Connect with Tabitha Yates:
Website: https://theredeemedmama.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRedeemedMama/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theredeemedmama/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MamaRedeemed
Get my free eBook and monthly resources-->http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Today, I’m excited to have my friend, Stevie Swift sitting with me. She is an author, artist, speaker, podcaster, and just an overall beautiful human. In this episode, we chat about Losing Oneself in order to Gain More of Christ.
Because grief goes far beyond the loss of a loved one. I love what Elisabeth Elliot says about suffering in her book “Suffering is Never for Nothing” which can be applied to grief....she says,
"Suffering is having what you don't want or wanting what you don't have".
In this case, grief can be anything, right? From the loss of a loved one to the loss of a dream, and anything in between. Regardless of the loss, grief is natural, and it is normal.
So, sit with us for a bit and share with a friend.
Connect with Stevie Swift:
Website: https://www.stevieswift.com/
Coloring Pages Website: https://www.steviedoodles.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StevieSwiftAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevieswiftauthor/
Podcast: https://www.stevieswift.com/podcast
Get my free eBook and monthly resources --> http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Pull up a chair and sit with Natasha as she discusses how to love the grieving well. You may or may not be surprised to find loving others well begins with what we say.
James Petersen in his book “Why Don’t We Listen Better”, says his first rule of crisis is: “Listen First – Talk Second.” If you acknowledge people’s fears, pain, losses, hurts, confusion, anger, etc. first, then they may calm enough to hear your thoughtful reassurances.
Listen and share.
Get this month’s free resource, A Change of Heart: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Connect with Natasha:
Website: https://lovelyyoublog.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imnatashasmith
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imnatashasmith
Twitter: https://twitter.com/imnatashasmith
In this episode I chat with Lauren Flake, artist, author, and Alzheimer’s daughter. Lauren shares her grief story and how it informs her writing on her blog at Love of Dixie. As well as how it inspired her book, Though I Walk through the Valley: 12 Days in Psalm 23 and her award-winning children’s books, Where Did My Sweet Grandma Go?: A Preschooler’s Guide to Losing A Loved One and Where Did My Sweet Grandpa Go?
Listen in as Lauren shares how “Grief is love…the final stage of grief never ends because love never ends.”
Get my free ebook, New Year, New Hope: 7 Days of Meditation + Prayers: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Connect with Lauren Flake:
Website: https://laurenflake.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loveofdixie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loveofdixie/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenflake
In this episode I chat with Jenny Albers, Author of Courageously Expecting: 30 Days of Encouragement for Pregnancy After Loss about her grief story and her new book.
“Healing really is possible…When dealing with grief, you feel like you’re always going to be in this dark space and that life is never going to get better again…Life may never be without triggers and you’re certainly going to always remember and be marked by these traumatic experiences. But there is hope that life can really be good again. I really want to leave people with that…There is always hope for healing.” – Jenny Albers (Author, Courageously Expecting)
Connect with me via my monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Connect with Jenny Albers:
Courageously Expecting: www.thomasnelson.com/p/courageously-expecting
Website: abeautifullyburdenedlife.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jennyalbersauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jennyalbersauthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/byjennyalbers
Grief, it can be felt, seen, and heard all around our world. But what can we do about it? Listen to Mel Bjorgen of I’ll Bring the Bible with Mel and Monica and I, as we chat about, “Grieving our World” and responding with prayer.
For more encouragement, connect with Natasha via her monthly newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Connect with Mel Bjorgen:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/illbringthebible
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/illbringthebible/
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ill-bring-the-bible-with-mel-and-monica/id1400113021
The holidays bring along with it, the pressure to “put on a happy face” even when you are unhappy. But do you know that you are allowed to grieve regardless the time of year? Whether you suffered the loss of a loved one, lost a job, experienced major life change or things are different than you hoped, there is always space and grace to grieve. God makes space for you.
This episode is simply a reassurance that although you may not be feeling joyous during this season of joy, know that God sees you, he cares for you, He understands. This episode also included 4 practical ways to cope with grief during this season.
Get this free resource "Grief During the Season of Joy, connect with Natasha via her monthly newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Grief, in and of itself is hard. But parenting while grieving is a different type of hard. Join me with special guest Latonya Moore of Joy in the Ordinary, as we chat about "Parenting While Grieving" on this episode of, Can You Just Sit with Me?
For more encouragement, connect with Natasha via her monthly newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Connect with Latonya Moore:
Website: https://joyintheordinary.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyintheordinary
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyintheordinarymom/
Podcast: https://joyintheordinary.simplecast.com/
Have you ever gone through a challenging or hard time, or suffered a great loss that left you feeling like "I don't even know who I am"?
This episode discusses the topic "Grief Changes You" Part 2. Listen in as Natasha chats with Chelsea Ohlemiller of Happiness, Hope, and Harsh Realities about her grief journey and how grief changed her life. You will enjoy this candid conversation and be encouraged that you are not alone.
For more encouragement, connect with Natasha via her monthly newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Connect with Chelsea Ohlemiller:
Website: https://hopeandharshrealities.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeandharshrealities
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeandharshrealities/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1BkDTuUSW4ym_dU9ebQs1w
Amidst grief, pain and challenge...Where is God? This is a question that is not uncommon for many even for the believer especially when hard and challenging times arise. This episode will affirm that you are not alone in grief, in the challenging times of life nor in the hard places of life. This episode will also encourage you to look for God even in the crushing places of life.
For more encouragement, connect with Natasha via her monthly newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Have you ever gone through a challenging or hard time, or suffered a great loss that left you feeling like "I don't even know who I am"?
This episode discusses the topic "Grief Changes You" Part 1. Listen in as Natasha chats with Chelsea Ohlemiller of Happiness, Hope, and Harsh Realities about her grief journey and how grief changed her life. You will enjoy this candid conversation and be encouraged that you are not alone.
For more encouragement, connect with Natasha via her monthly newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/bCTWML
Connect with Chelsea Ohlemiller:
Website: https://hopeandharshrealities.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeandharshrealities
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeandharshrealities/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1BkDTuUSW4ym_dU9ebQs1w
New Episodes launching November 15th, 2021
Welcome to "Can You Just Sit With Me?" with Natasha Smith, a podcast about hope in grief, hope in the hard place and hope during the challenging times of life.
Join Inspirational Author and Lifestyle Content Creator Natasha Smith as she chats about Mental Overload. What it means and how to recognize it. Along with 5 tips to help you avoid it.