Claim OwnershipWidowhood Real Talk with Dr. Tina
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© Copyright 2025 l All Rights Reserved l Widowhood Real Talk Tina, Inc. l Tina R. Fornwald
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Many people talk about the ups and downs of married life, but few prepare for the worst-case scenario when a spouse passes away. Marriage is a journey, a stage in life shared by two people on a path that is meant to be walked together. But what happens when you lose your partner? How does one deal with this permanent separation?
Welcome to Dr. Tina's Widowhood Real Talk, a safe space for widows and widowers, as well as their loved ones, to talk and listen to stories of love and loss.
Dr. Tina R. Fornwald's life was turned upside down when her husband Mark died suddenly of a massive heart attack while on vacation on March 11, 2017. His death was both tragic and unexpected. She had no idea how to survive without him or even if she could. They were married for 29 years, raised two wonderful children to adulthood, traveled the world together, and loved each other unconditionally. With a strong faith in God, countless therapy sessions, and the support of family and friends, she was able to keep living and develop a new life. She also started talking to other widows and widowers to gain insight, understanding, and a new perspective on this hard journey. This step was critical to her well-being, and those numerous conversations inspired the podcast. She felt called to turn her most dreadful experience into a place of healing and hope for others.
The purpose of the show is to give a voice to what it's like to be a widow or widower. It's time to let people in the community—children, friends, family members, funeral directors, therapists, or clergy—know they can help in the healing process. Beyond that, the goal is to give children of widows and widowers a voice to speak about their experience and reach others who feel alone. There is hope and a group of caring individuals who want to lend a hand.
Each episode features stories from Dr. Tina and her guests as they share their experiences, lessons learned, insights, and more. Let these honest conversations give you hope and comfort. Discover a wealth of resources and learn how to connect with others who are traveling the same path.
Learn about the experiences of other widows and widowers, and how they are coping and healing in their own ways. No two experiences are alike, and no two stories are the same. Finding out how other people have handled—or are handling—this unfortunate event can help you feel more confident that, in your own time and at your own pace, you're handling it just fine.
You are not alone on this journey. You shouldn't feel like you have to keep quiet about your feelings of loss and grief after a spouse dies. As you venture back into the world and into a new life, learn to be open with others and to express your true feelings. Experiencing grief after the death of a spouse merely demonstrates how much love there is in your heart.
Join Dr. Tina on Widowhood Real Talk to talk about your experiences as a widow, both good and bad, and to find support in your journey.
Visit https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/ to join the community and access additional resources.
158 Episodes
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The holiday season—a time often painted with perfect, joyful strokes—can feel like an impossible climb when you're navigating life after loss. For young widows especially, the grief is compounded by societal silence, financial strain, and the sheer force of balancing personal sorrow with the need to create magic for their children. In this incredibly honest and raw conversation, award-winning podcaster Rosie Gill-Moss (host of Widowed AF) brings the heat, discussing everything from finding new traditions amidst the chaos of parenting, to the surprising and often shamed phenomenon known as widow's fire. Get ready for real talk on how one young widow reclaimed her identity, built a thriving community, and learned to live—and laugh—again, even during the toughest time of the year.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Rebuilding yourself after life falls apart is a challenging, yet necessary, journey, especially when navigating grief during the holiday season and facing self-doubt. Arthur J. Rutledge, a servant leader, speaker, and author of 11 Pillars of Confidence: Build & Lead an Empowered YOU, shares his profound personal experiences with loss—from his pet to close family—and offers constructive steps to consciously move toward the light. He discusses the power of "stringing" good memories to work through the darkness, the importance of forgiving the unspoken, and how overcoming "low-frequency ideas" like shame and blame is crucial to becoming the 'Victor versus the victim' in your own life story. Arthur emphasizes that strengthening the trifecta of self-esteem, self-worth, and self-value is key to seeing grief not as a tombstone, but as a stepping stone to a renewed life.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Grief doesn’t follow rules, timelines, or tidy emotional stages, and Kim Murray knows that deeply. A young widow at forty-four with two children, Kim learned firsthand how confusing, exhausting, and disorienting life becomes when the world keeps moving but yours stops. She opens up about the early days of widowhood, parenting through grief, the pressure to keep traditions alive, the weight of other people’s expectations, and the process of learning to honor both sadness and joy. Kim also shares practical wisdom around boundaries, emotional permission, navigating finances during grief, and the mindset shift that helped her believe she was still allowed to live, love, and build a future. Through honesty, humor, and vulnerability, this conversation reminds widows they are not broken, they are not alone, and there is no “right way” to grieve — only the next step forward.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
The emotional turmoil of loss requires more than just time; it demands the intentional "work" of navigating grief. Certified grief educator and certified life coach Brian D. Smith, host of the Grief 2 Growth podcast, joins the conversation to share how he transformed his own pain after the sudden loss of his daughter, Shayna, into a calling to help others. Brian details his practical GEMS method—Gratitude, Exercise, Mindfulness, and Self-care—as a foundational daily practice for healing and discusses why the expectation of happiness during the holidays can be so difficult, the power of forgiveness to release emotional ties, and how to offer genuine support to those who are grieving without unintentionally minimizing their experience.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Grief is quite challenging to deal with all year round, but it can be specifically tougher during the holiday season. Keynote speaker Marie Alessi talks about her mission to bring lightness into grief, not to make it completely go away, but instead make it much easier to handle. Reflecting on the sudden passing of her husband, she stresses the importance of embracing joy despite the sadness – regardless of what other people may think. Marie also offers practical advice on raising children after your partner passes away, responding to insensitive comments about grief, and finding your very own North Star amid your grieving journey.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
For a grieving person, the holiday season can be a painful reminder of loss while the whole world celebrates. Linda Findlay shares how she helps people in their own bereavement world to get through the holidays without sacrificing their peace of mind. She explains the importance of proactive communication with your loved ones about grief and the simple yet profound comfort of creating new traditions to remember those who have passed. Linda also explains how to take advantage of bereavement services through local hospices and getting grief care from funeral homes.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Losing a spouse is devastating, but for widowers, the journey through grief often feels isolated and uncharted. Are you a widower searching for a roadmap? Wondering how to navigate the overwhelming emotional and practical challenges, especially during the holidays? In this exclusive conversation, we sit down with Herb Knoll, a widower, author, and founder of the Widowers Support Network, who spent seven years researching and developing the definitive guide for men coping with loss. Herb cuts through the silence and shares:A FREE 15-Step Action Plan to manage grief and recovery.The critical reasons why men need their own space to heal.Essential advice on health, dating, and avoiding common pitfalls after loss.Insights from his acclaimed book, "The Widower's Journey," and his international support network of over 3,000 men.Stop feeling lost. This conversation offers practical steps, a powerful community, and the encouragement you need to move forward. Tune in now to get your action plan and start your journey toward healing.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Grief changes everything, but storytelling can help us find our way back to ourselves. Dr. Tina Fornwald opens her heart to share the journey behind The Five Widows Club, her upcoming book that explores love, loss, and the raw reality of grief. Drawing from her own story of widowhood and the collective experiences of five women—Monique, Carmen, Ava, Trish, and Joyce—Tina reveals how storytelling helps us see ourselves in others’ pain and find light in the darkness. Through these women’s intertwined paths, she reflects on what it means to grieve honestly, love deeply, and continue living with hope. More than a book, The Five Widows Club is a testament to community, compassion, and the power of sharing our stories so no one has to heal alone.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Learning to share your story after loss can feel daunting—but it’s also one of the most powerful ways to heal. Writing coach Romana Hasenöhrl joins Tina Fornwald to explore how creative expression helps us navigate grief, remember our loved ones, and rediscover joy. Through her own experience of losing her grandmother, Romana found comfort in writing, eventually transforming her pain into purpose by helping others find their voices. Together, they discuss the emotional release that comes from storytelling, why joy and sorrow can coexist, and how sharing your story can bring light, connection, and meaning back into your life.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
After the passing of their partners, widows are left alone to deal with grief. But despite the sadness and loneliness, they should not be deprived of enjoying a good sex life. I chat with sex coach Lexus Powell to find out how widows can enjoy pleasure and intimacy unapologetically – even while navigating grief. Inspired by her own experiences as a divorced person, Lexus explains the benefits of dating yourself and acknowledging your sexiest aspects to reclaim your sensual self. She also breaks the stigma and shame surrounding self-pleasure, emphasizing how this solo activity can empower and boost your sex life.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Dealing with your loved one’s last moments is not easy, but you have to make it count not just for your own peace, but also for the person lying on their deathbed. We hear the experiences and insights of Gabrielle Jimenez, a palliative care nurse who also works as a death doula. She discusses why communication, listening, and validation are essential to help people get through the end-of-life moments of their loved ones to avoid living with regrets. Gabrielle also explains how you can find joy despite the sadness and why giving yourself permission to cry is part of anyone’s grieving journey.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Dealing with grief during the joyful ambiance of the holidays is one of the hardest and overwhelming feelings to handle. Helping you get through this season is Addie Green, a sensual movement teacher, who presents the benefits of grief-informed breathwork. She breaks down practical and conscious ways to tap into yourself and focus on your own breath, hopes, and dreams as you go through your journey with grief. Addie also explains how astrology, journaling, body scans, and sensual movement can also ground and prepare oneself for the holiday season.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
What does a man do when he feels like he wants to quit after his wife and his newborn child die? How do you begin the monumental task of finding purpose when the world doesn't give you the opportunity to cry and grieve? This is the journey of James D. Price, a widower who transformed his deepest pain into a calling to help others. He shares his raw, transparent story of isolation, faith, and ultimately, building a community for grieving men. Let's get into this conversation.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Every year, Tina Fornwald welcomes back Joi Brooks for an honest and heartfelt check-in on life after loss. In this year’s conversation, Joi shares candid reflections on moving forward after years of caregiving, navigating the complexities of travel and social life without her late husband, and redefining what happiness looks like at this stage of her journey. Together, Tina and Joi discuss guilt, grief, self-discovery, and the importance of staying true to oneself while remaining open to new opportunities. This annual conversation offers comfort, insight, and solidarity for anyone learning to live fully in the aftermath of widowhood.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Grief touches every life, but in the midst of loss there are often unexpected glimmers of hope–rivers in the desert. In this heartfelt conversation, author Katherine E. ST. joins Tina Fornwald to share the journey behind her book Rivers in the Desert: Glimmers of Hope in Impossible Times. Together, they explore the many faces of grief — from the loss of loved ones to broken relationships, health challenges, and financial struggles — and the ways faith, forgiveness, and community can bring light into the darkest seasons. With deeply personal stories, poetry, and even the healing power of music, Katherine invites listeners to see that even in life’s deserts, rivers of hope still flow.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Grief support isn’t just a conversation—it’s a lifeline. In this heartfelt episode, Tina Fornwald steps out from behind the mic to reveal how Widowhood Real Talk with Tina has grown into a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit offering concrete ways to help widows, widowers, and families heal. She shares exciting details about the upcoming “Hope Grows Here” 1960s-themed event in Norfolk, Virginia; explains how listeners can participate in the Children of Widowhood Secret Santa program; and highlights peer-to-peer grief support groups for men and for all adults. From scholarships to vendor opportunities, donations, and volunteering, this episode is a roadmap for anyone who wants to give or receive meaningful support on the journey through loss.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
What do you do when you lose your husband to suicide? How do you live with it every single day, and how do you talk about it with other people? I sit down with Erin Carlson, who shares how she became a widow at 36 and was left with three children after her husband committed suicide. Now in her eighth year of widowhood just like me, she explains how she breaks the stigma around suicide and why conversations around it must never be shunned. Erin also emphasizes why those in law enforcement need proper mental health support, remembering the legacy of her husband who was once part of the police force.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Losing a loved one is truly heartbreaking. How harder would it be if you had to deal with the death of several family members? Alicia Voss is here to share how she handled the passing of her mother and her spouse after they got divorced. She reflects on the importance of forgiving even when unasked for, the importance of self-grace in navigating the complexities of loss, and how her personal relationships transformed after going through grief. Alicia also talks about her inspiration behind Good Grief Great Mourning, a platform born from her personal grieving journey, and how she helps other people go through their own stories of loss.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
A lot of things have to be addressed and dealt with after a loved one’s passing, especially on the financial side. How can you handle life after death in the smoothest way possible? I sit down with Pam Baker, who talks about her book “Where’s the Key to the Safe?” She discusses how she handled the finances of her late husband while dealing with the grief of losing her most beloved person in the world. Pam also shares how her widowhood journey inspired her to create Widows Who Wine™, a community centered on supporting and uplifting each other by celebrating their interests and passions.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
Grief, trauma, and self-worth collide in this raw and empowering conversation on healing through grief. Yvette Lloyd—podcaster, businesswoman, and survivor—opens up about the compounding losses that shaped her, from the death of her husband and mother to the betrayal of friends and the weight of domestic violence. She shares not only what broke her, but how she rebuilt herself with faith, resilience, and a deep commitment to self-love. This is more than a story of loss—it’s a journey of rebirth and reclaiming power in the face of unimaginable pain.I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others. Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World
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