Every Widow Thing

Meet Tammy. Her widow journey is only five months in, but she is already leading with a healing perspective. Inspired by her husband Kim’s eight-year battle with cancer and his refusal to 'take a break' from living, Tammy is determined to honor his legacy by embracing life with purpose. In this episode, we discuss:How Tammy discovered our podcast through a chance encounter in an antique store.The challenges and triumphs of being a caregiver during Kim's illness.The importance of having open conversations about love and loss.Tammy's experience with a medium that helped her connect with Kim after his passing.The support system she found in friends and fellow widows, and how they have helped her cope.Tammy's story is a testament to resilience, love, and the power of community. Whether you're a widow or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and hope.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below!Follow us on social media:Instagram: @EveryWidowThingFacebook: Every Widow Thing#EveryWidowThing #WidowSupport #GriefJourney #Inspiration #Podcast

In this episode, Holly and Whitney are joined by a very special guest: Holly's close friend and former business partner, Kym. Together, they step into one of the most intimate and daunting spaces of the grieving process—the closet.Years ago, Kym stood by Holly’s side to help reorganize her home after Toby passed away. Recently, the duo tackled the garage, proving that decluttering after loss isn't a one-time event, but a continuous journey of healing.Drawing on their shared history as professional organizers, Holly and Kym bridge the gap between the practical and the emotional. They share personal stories and compassionate strategies for navigating the items that hold the most weight.In this episode, you’ll learn:Where to Begin: How to overcome the "paralysis" of getting started.Transition Spaces: Creating physical areas that allow you to process items at your own pace.The Sentiment Filter: Tips for honoring memories while deciding what truly belongs in your future.The Power of Partnership: Why having a "Kym" in your corner makes all the difference.Whether you are weeks or years into your journey, this conversation offers a gentle roadmap for clearing physical space to make room for your heart to breathe.Marie Kondo's KonMari MethodSalvation ArmyGoodwillYellow Bike Project (Austin)Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Deathversary. Angelversary. Reunion Day. Why are we naming it? How do we navigate it every year? The widows sit down to talk about this jarring anniversary. From going to the cemetery, to having an adventure, to not acknowledging at all. There is no wrong way to handle it. We all just do the best that we can. #death #grief #anniversary #griefsupportFollow us on instagram, Facebook and Youtube! @everywidowthingLike and Subscribe!Join our Facebook Every Widow Thing Insider's Group Get in touch with us: everywidowthing@gmail.com

After 29 years with Todd, Marybeth’s life changed in an instant. Now two years out, she is navigating the 'after' with incredible courage—including traveling solo to find connection in our community and leaning into the yes of life. While she spends her career as a therapist, Marybeth speaks from the heart about the gap between logic and loss. We discuss the tragic fall that changed everything, the signs Todd sends her today, and the brave steps she’s taking to figure out what comes next. A must-listen for anyone finding their way through the quiet moments of grief.TakeawaysMarybeth's story highlights the importance of community support during grief.The unexpected nature of loss can lead to profound emotional challenges.Making decisions during a crisis can be overwhelming and complex.Living wills can provide clarity and guidance in difficult times.Grief is a journey that varies for each individual.Maintaining routines can help provide stability in times of upheaval.It's important to balance saying yes to support and knowing when to say no.Sharing experiences with others who have faced similar loss can be healing.Signs from loved ones can provide comfort and connection after loss.Therapy can be both a challenge and a source of strength during grief.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:01 Marybeth's Journey with Todd06:10 The Family Life and Todd's Personality08:55 The Tragic Accident12:03 Emergency Response and Hospital Experience15:02 The Uncertainty and Waiting17:57 The Final Days and Decisions20:57 Coping with Loss and Moving Forward23:28 The Medical Journey Begins26:32 Confronting Harsh Realities30:34 Navigating End-of-Life Decisions32:01 The Role of Living Wills33:47 Saying Goodbye36:17 The Honor Walk and Organ Donation39:32 The Aftermath of Grief40:08 Therapy and Personal Healing44:23 Navigating Grief on Significant Days47:20 Signs from Beyond: A Personal Connection51:09 Finding Routine in Grief54:17 The Complexity of Moving Forward57:15 The Healing Power of Shared StoriesFollow us on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook @everywidowthing Join our Facebook Every Widow Thing Insiders Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cc3vkLneJ/Like and subscribe!

Holly, Keira and Whitney sit down with a live audience on Valentine's Day! In this live podcast, the ladies discuss the complexities of grief, connection, and the journey of widowhood. Audience members share personal stories and explore the challenges and joys of dating after loss. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support, the healing power of laughter, and recognizing signs from loved ones. A reminder for everyone to embrace life and connection, even amidst grief.takeawaysGrief is a universal experience that needs to be openly discussed.Connection with others who understand grief is vital for healing.Valentine's Day can evoke both joy and sadness for those who have lost loved ones.Dating after loss is a complex journey that requires patience and self-discovery.It's important to recognize and honor the love languages of our partners.Finding joy and laughter is possible even in the depths of grief.Community support can provide strength and understanding during tough times.Signs from loved ones can manifest in unexpected ways, offering comfort.Becoming a 'yes' person can help in navigating life after loss.Hope and love can elevate our spirits and open us to new possibilities.Chapters00:00Introduction to Grief and Connection06:05Valentine's Day Memories and Stories19:26Navigating Dating After Loss25:09Navigating Grief and Finding Joy27:35Becoming a 'Yes' Person28:57The Power of Community and Connection31:08Finding the Podcast: A Lifeline34:24The Importance of Support Systems36:10Discovering Resources and Relatability38:35Hope and Healing Through Shared Experiences41:29Signs and Connections in Grief44:50Stories of Signs and Meaning#griefsupport #youngwidow #signs #community #lifeafterloss

In this episode of Every Widow Thing, we are joined by Shelly —a school principal and mother of triplets who shares a story that challenges our understanding of timing and intuition. Shelly walks us through her life with her husband, Steve: from their unexpected journey into parenthood with triplets to the sudden loss that turned her world upside down.At the center of her story is a moment of unexplainable clarity. Shelly shares the specific, haunting "gut feeling" that led her to make a last-minute change to the family’s plans—a decision that came straight from her soul and changed the landscape of her grief forever. Join us as we explore the power of the internal whisper that knows the way even when the mind isn't ready.Connect with us:Instagram: @everywidowthingEmail: everywidowthing@gmail.comWebsite: https://everywidowthing.comKeywords: Widowhood | Triplets | Intuition | Grief Support | Sudden Loss | Premonition#EveryWidowThing #GriefJourney #Widowhood #Intuition #LifeAfterLoss #SoloParenting #PowerOfPremonition

The "January Blues" hit a little differently when you’re navigating life after the loss of a spouse. In this episode, we’re keeping it real about why the start of a new year can feel so heavy for widows and how to manage those tough emotional hurdles.But it’s not all heavy talk—we’re also looking ahead! We’re diving into our upcoming Valentine’s Day events designed to bring us together. We talk about why having something fun on the calendar is so vital for healing, and how leanining into a community that "just gets it" can make all the difference. Come hang out with us as we chat about connection, shared stories, and finding a way forward together.Link to Tickets! https://every-widow-thing-valentines.eventbrite.comConnect with us!INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/everywidowthing/FB INSIDERS GROUP:https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17hYvAAdEK/TakeawaysIt's hard to transition into a new year after loss.January can be particularly challenging for those grieving.Community events can provide support and connection.Planning events can help in coping with grief.Having something to look forward to is essential.The hosts are organizing Valentine's Day events for widows.Connection with others who understand is vital.The importance of humor and light-heartedness in healing.Raffles and community engagement can foster connection.It's okay to reach out for support during tough times.#griefsupport #lifeafterloss #widow #Valentinesday #AustinTexasEvent #grief #widowhood #new year #community #support #events #healing #loss #friendship

Grief doesn’t take a break for the holidays, and neither do the demands of parenting. Today, we’re opening up about the emotional rollercoaster of being the "only" parent during the most wonderful (and sometimes hardest) time of the year. We explore how to create new joy when the old traditions feel heavy, the power of community, and the beauty of prioritizing experiences over things. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of it all, this conversation is for you.00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene01:18 Holiday Reflections and Family Traditions04:25 Traveling During the Holidays08:42 Experiences Over Material Gifts12:00 Navigating Grief and Parenting Challenges43:33 The Weight of Single Parenting52:55 Creating New Traditions and Moving Forward

Meet Danny Leslie, a widower who turned his grief into a powerful message of hope and resilience. After losing his wife, Raffi, to cancer in December 2024, Danny compiled their journey into a remarkable book titled Thank You, Cancer.In this episode, Danny shares intimate details about their life together, the challenges they faced during Raffi's five-year battle with vulva cancer, and the profound way God showed up for them along the way. Discover how Raffi's adventurous spirit and unwavering faith shaped their experiences, and how they found moments of joy amidst the pain.Purchase Danny's book, Thank You, Cancer: https://bluehatpublishing.com/products/thank-you-cancer-by-raffaella-dobles-and-danny-lesslie?variant=46742469771500Follow Danny here: momentumwithdannyFollow us here: everywidowthingLike and subscribe to the podcast!Time Stamps:00:00:00 - Welcome to Every Widow ThingIntroduction to the podcast and its mission.00:00:25 - Danny Leslie's StoryOverview of Danny's journey as a widower after losing his wife, Rafi, to cancer.00:01:29 - Rafi's Spirit and ImpactDanny shares insights about Rafi's vibrant personality and their relationship.00:02:59 - Living Life UnplannedDiscussion on their adventurous lifestyle, including selling everything to live in an RV.00:04:41 - The Cancer DiagnosisThe moment Rafi receives her cancer diagnosis and the impact it has on their family.00:07:51 - Navigating the UnknownDanny describes the uncertainty and fear following Rafi's surgery.00:13:34 - The Weight of InformationDanny recounts the difficult conversation of informing Rafi about her cancer diagnosis.00:14:46 - Life with CancerExploration of the daily challenges and logistics of caring for Rafi during her illness.00:19:22 - The Role of Children in GriefDiscussion on how their children help Danny cope with the loss of Rafi.00:22:09 - Chronic Pain and CareInsight into the physical struggles Rafi faced and the emotional toll on the family.00:30:12 - God Moments in GriefDanny reflects on the spiritual experiences and signs of God's presence during their journey.00:36:31 - Radical GenerosityStories of community support and unexpected financial help during Rafi's treatment.00:40:34 - Thank You, CancerUnderstanding the title of the book and the lessons learned through adversity.00:43:06 - Reconciliation with LossDanny discusses how he reconciles his faith with the loss of Rafi and the absence of anger towards God.

In this special episode of Every Widow Thing, our friend, Stephanie, joins us to share her experience of profound loss and grief after her 15-year-old daughter, Kobi, died in a horrific home accident. Stephanie honors Kobi's life as an artist and photographer, recounts the tragic accident, and reflects on moments of spiritual connection that followed. Join us for a testament to resilience, enduring love, and finding light through signs, faith, and the healing power of family and nature.00:00:00 - Introduction to Stephanie's StoryOn today's episode, the host introduces Stephanie, a mother sharing her journey of grief after losing her 15-year-old daughter, Kobi.00:01:30 - Kobi's Life and PersonalityStephanie reflects on Kobi's vibrant personality, her talents, and the love she had for her family and community.00:03:00 - Foreshadowing Before the TragedyStephanie shares significant events leading up to Kobi's death, highlighting moments that seemed to foreshadow the tragedy.00:05:30 - The Day of the AccidentA detailed account of the day Kobi passed away, including her symptoms and the family's interactions before the incident.00:09:00 - The Moment of ImpactStephanie describes the moment Kobi was injured and the spiritual connection she felt during that time.00:12:00 - Emergency ResponseThe family's frantic efforts to get help and the chaos that ensued as they awaited emergency responders.00:14:30 - Arrival at the HospitalThe family's experience at the hospital, including the difficult discussions about Kobi's condition and organ donation.00:18:00 - Creating Lasting MemoriesStephanie recounts the emotional process of making handprints with Kobi and the significance of those memories.00:20:30 - Signs and Spiritual ConnectionsThe discussion of signs from Kobi and how Stephanie and her family have felt her presence since her passing.00:25:00 - Healing and GriefStephanie reflects on the healing journey for her family, the different ways they cope with grief, and the importance of self-care.00:30:00 - Advice for Other Grieving ParentsStephanie shares insights and advice for parents who have lost children, emphasizing the importance of hope and openness to signs.00:35:00 - The Role of Faith in GriefThe conversation shifts to the role of faith in navigating grief and the importance of being open to spiritual experiences.00:40:00 - Conclusion and ReflectionThe episode wraps up with reflections on the lasting impact of Kobi's life and the ongoing journey of healing for Stephanie and her family.

In this episode of "Every Widow Thinks," we had the privilege of speaking with Jeff, a widower from Austin, who shared his deeply personal journey following the loss of his wife, Mona, in 2019. Jeff opened up about their love story, which began with a blind date in Seattle, and how they built a life together in Austin, raising their daughter, Julia.Mona's battle with a rare cancer, liposarcoma, lasted nearly nine years, during which Jeff and Mona navigated the complexities of treatment while striving to maintain a sense of normalcy for their young daughter. Resources: https://flatwater.orghttps://wondersandworries.orghttps://www.hospiceaustin.org/our-services/christopher-house/00:00:00 - Introduction to Jeff and His Story00:01:00 - Meeting Mona: A Blind Date in Seattle00:02:40 - Moving to Austin and Starting a Family00:04:20 - Mona's Cancer Diagnosis: Liposarcoma00:05:50 - The Journey of Treatment and Family Support00:07:30 - Living with Cancer: A New Normal00:08:50 - Mona's Determination to Maintain Normalcy00:10:20 - Navigating the Medical Community as Physicians00:12:00 - Traveling and Creating Memories Together00:14:10 - The Shift in Health: Rapid Progression00:16:00 - Emergency Surgery and Hospital Stays00:18:15 - Transitioning to Hospice Care00:19:40 - Final Days at the Christopher House00:21:00 - Talking to Julia About Cancer and Loss00:22:30 - Julia's Coping Mechanisms and Support00:25:00 - Reflections on Grief and Milestones00:27:10 - Adjusting to Life After Loss00:28:40 - Therapy and Support Resources00:30:30 - Planning for the Future: Wills and Wishes00:32:00 - Mona's Legacy: Letters and Memories00:34:00 - Navigating Dating After Loss00:36:00 - Julia's Growth and Challenges00:46:00 - Conclusion and Reflections on Parenting

In this episode of Every Widow Thing, we welcome Suzanne, a dear friend of Holly's, who shares her deeply personal journey of loss and healing after the suicide of her ex-husband, Michael. Suzanne reflects on their 11-year marriage, the struggles he faced with alcoholism and depression, and the impact of his tragic death on their children.Join us as we discuss the complexities of grief, the importance of self-compassion, and the healing modalities that helped Suzanne navigate her trauma, including acupuncture, compassion classes, and even a psilocybin journey. We also touched on the loss of her beloved dog, Mojo, and the beautiful way she honored his memory. Suzanne's story is a testament to resilience and the power of self-compassion in the face of unimaginable loss.00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest IntroductionWelcome back to the podcast; introduction of Suzanne, the guest who lost her ex-husband to suicide.00:01:00 - Memories of San FranciscoSuzanne shares her memories of meeting Holly in San Francisco and their friendship.00:02:00 - Michael's StrugglesDiscussion about Suzanne's ex-husband, Michael, his struggles with alcoholism and depression, and the impact of COVID.00:03:00 - The Tragic DiscoverySuzanne recounts the traumatic experience of discovering Michael after his suicide.00:05:00 - Relationship DynamicsExploration of the relationship between Suzanne and Michael post-divorce, including co-parenting challenges.00:06:00 - Notifying the ChildrenSuzanne describes the painful process of informing her children about their father's death.00:08:00 - The Kids' ReactionsDiscussion on how Suzanne's children reacted to the news and the immediate aftermath.00:09:00 - Grief and ShockSuzanne reflects on her feelings of shock and helplessness after Michael's death.00:10:00 - Understanding SuicideDiscussion on the misconceptions surrounding suicide and the importance of understanding it as a disease.00:12:00 - The NoteSuzanne talks about the note left by Michael and its impact on her grief.00:14:00 - Children's Involvement in GriefHow Suzanne's children took charge of planning their father's memorial service.00:15:00 - Self-Care and HealingSuzanne shares her journey of self-care and healing after Michael's death.00:18:00 - Exploring Different ModalitiesDiscussion on various healing practices Suzanne engaged in, including Reiki and acupuncture.00:20:00 - Compassion ClassSuzanne describes her experience in a compassion class and its significance in her healing journey.00:22:00 - Psilocybin JourneySuzanne explains her psilocybin journey and its effects on her healing process.00:25:00 - Finding Joy After GriefSuzanne reflects on how her experiences have led to a greater appreciation for life.00:27:00 - Advice for Those in GriefSuzanne offers advice for individuals currently experiencing grief.00:30:00 - The Importance of Self-CompassionDiscussion on the necessity of self-compassion during difficult times.00:32:00 - Body Language and EnergyExploration of how body language can affect emotional energy and mindset.00:34:00 - Mojo's StorySuzanne shares the story of her beloved dog, Mojo, and the impact of his passing.00:39:00 - Healing Rituals for MojoDetails about the rituals Suzanne performed to honor Mojo after his death.00:42:00 - The Book of AwakeningSuzanne discusses a book that has been meaningful to her during her healing journey.00:44:00 - Conclusion and ResourcesWrap-up of the episode, including resources for compassion and healing.resources mentioned the episode: Into the Magic Shop- James DotyThe Book of Awakening - Mark NepoCompassion Class

Deb Pilcher's grief journey began years before her husband's death, with the stillbirth of their first daughter, Anna. In a surprising twist, that first devastating loss was the catalyst for healing and hope when her husband, Wally, was killed in a driving accident that left her oldest son in critical condition. Deb was given an image that to this day allows her to reframe her grief and feel joy in spite of her devastating losses.Deb's story—marked by child loss, widowhood, two battles with cancer, and a new marriage—is shared here to bring hope to others who are grieving.Hope is a superpower!00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest IntroductionWhitney introduces Holly and Deb, sharing the significance of Deb's support during her early widowhood.00:01:30 - Deb's Grief Journey BeginsDeb recounts the beginning of her grief journey with the stillbirth of her first daughter and the subsequent loss of her husband, Wally.00:02:50 - The Impact of Wally's DeathDeb shares the details of Wally's tragic death in a car accident and the immediate aftermath for her and their children.00:05:00 - Jacob's Survival and TraumaDiscussion about Jacob's injuries from the accident and the challenges of communicating the news of Wally's death to him.00:08:00 - The Role of Friends and FamilyDeb reflects on the support she received from friends and family during the crisis and the importance of community.00:10:30 - Navigating Grief and DenialDeb discusses her initial denial of Wally's death and her focus on Jacob's recovery.00:12:30 - The Long Road of GriefDeb explains how she coped with her grief over the years, focusing on her children and gradually processing her loss.00:15:00 - Finding Joy Amidst GriefDeb shares how she reframed her grief and found moments of joy, including the concept of "reunion day."00:20:00 - The Challenge of Moving ForwardDiscussion on the fear of moving on from grief and the struggle to let go of memories.00:23:00 - Humor in GriefDeb and Whitney talk about the importance of humor in coping with grief and share funny anecdotes.00:27:00 - Dating After LossDeb discusses her journey to dating again after Wally's death and the challenges she faced.00:30:00 - Meeting ClayDeb shares the story of how she met her current husband, Clay, through her friends.00:35:00 - The Wedding and Family DynamicsDeb describes her wedding to Clay and how her children have adjusted to the new family dynamics.00:40:00 - Balancing Memories of the PastDeb talks about the importance of acknowledging Wally's flaws while celebrating his memory and ensuring her children understand that no one is perfect.

Holly is in a funk and that's totally normal. Grief is a part of our life now, even 8 years in. It definitely is not as heavy and ever present as the early years, but to think that there will come a day when grief has left you, is not realistic. In this episode of Every Widow Thing, Whitney and Holly dive into the complex emotions surrounding grief, loneliness, and the unexpected role of humor in healing. As they share personal stories and experiences, they explore how laughter can coexist with sorrow, even in the most challenging moments.Join them as they discuss:The nuances of grief and the feeling of loneliness, even years after loss.The importance of acknowledging all emotions related to grief.Hilarious anecdotes, including a story about a widow twerking at a funeral and the use of cardboard cutouts to honor loved ones.The healing power of laughter and how it can lighten the heaviest of situations.Whether you're navigating your own grief journey or simply looking for a lighthearted take on a heavy topic, this episode offers a blend of humor and heartfelt conversation. Remember, where you are right now is not where you will stay—laughter and healing are possible!Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

Get ready! Our latest episode is here, and it's a special one: our 50th!We reflect on our experiences, share heartfelt stories from our recent meet and greet with listeners, and celebrate the monumental milestones in our lives, including the graduations of Keira and Holly's firstborns. What would we tell our newly widowed selves about the future? Tune in to find out!Don't dip out early! Keira gives us fresh material for some good-natured ribbing and it is "sole-ful!"00:00:00 - Celebrating Episode 50The hosts introduce themselves and celebrate the milestone of their 50th episode, reflecting on their journey.00:01:00 - Meet and Greet RecapDiscussion about the recent meet and greet with listeners, sharing experiences and the rewarding nature of connecting with their audience.00:02:00 - Supporting New WidowsThe hosts talk about their experiences supporting newer widows and the impact of their podcast on listeners.00:03:00 - Funny Hat MisunderstandingA humorous anecdote about their EWT hats being misread by others at the meet and greet.00:04:00 - Planning ChallengesThe hosts discuss the difficulties of planning events and the emotional responses tied to scheduling after loss.00:05:30 - Flipping the Script on NegativityA conversation about changing negative thought patterns and focusing on positive outcomes.00:06:30 - Worries About Kids DrivingThe hosts share their concerns about their children driving long distances and the anxiety that comes with it.00:07:30 - Graduation MilestonesThe hosts reflect on their children's recent college graduations and the emotions tied to these significant milestones.00:08:30 - Mixed Emotions at GraduationDiscussion about the bittersweet feelings surrounding their children's graduations and the absence of their late spouses.00:10:00 - Incorporating Late Spouses in CelebrationsKira shares her emotional struggle to include her late husband in her daughter's graduation celebration.00:12:00 - Family ConnectionsThe hosts discuss family dynamics and the involvement of their late spouses' families during graduation events.00:13:30 - Gabe's Graduation ExperienceHolly shares details about her son Gabe's graduation, including family attendance and special gifts.00:15:00 - Navigating College ExperiencesThe hosts discuss the differences between high school and college graduations and the unique experiences of their children.00:17:00 - Expectations vs. RealityA conversation about the pressures of expectations during significant life events and how they can affect experiences.00:19:00 - The Reality of College LifeThe hosts discuss the challenges their children face in college and the importance of managing expectations.00:20:30 - Reflections on Loss and GrowthThe hosts reflect on their children's growth and resilience after losing their fathers at a young age.00:22:00 - Gabe's Tattoo TributeHolly shares the story of Gabe getting a tattoo to honor his late father, Toby, and the significance behind it.00:25:00 - Tattoo Stories and MemoriesThe hosts share personal stories related to tattoos and the memories they evoke.00:27:00 - Podcast Journey ReflectionThe hosts reflect on their journey with the podcast, discussing the challenges and growth they've experienced.00:30:00 - The Impact of Sharing StoriesDiscussion on the importance of sharing their stories and how it has helped both them and their listeners.00:32:00 - Filling a Void for OthersThe hosts talk about their motivation for starting the podcast and the need for support in the widow community.00:35:00 - Looking AheadThe hosts express their hopes for the future of the podcast and their commitment to supporting others through their experiences.

In this informative episode of "Every Widow Thing," Lacey , Whitney, Holly, and Keira speak with special guest Cheryl Martin, a retired grief therapist and recent widow. Together, they explore the complexities of grief, particularly the often-overlooked challenges of the second year after loss. Cheryl shares her personal journey of navigating widowhood and the insights she gained from her professional experience as a grief counselor.Throughout the conversation, they discuss the importance of empathy, the need for ongoing support, and the reality of living with grief long after the initial loss. Cheryl offers valuable tools for coping, including the significance of allowing oneself to feel a range of emotions, the power of community, and the necessity of seeking help when needed.Join us as we delve into the realities of grief, the importance of remembering our loved ones, and the ways we can support each other through this difficult journey. Whether you're a widow/widower, a friend, or someone looking to understand grief better, this episode is filled with compassion, wisdom, and hope.Topics Covered:​The challenges of the second year of grief​The importance of empathy and support​Tools for coping with loss​The significance of remembering loved ones​Finding the right therapist and support groupsDon't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!​00:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction: Introduction of Cheryl Martin, a retired grief therapist and widow.​00:02:13 - Experiencing Grief as a Therapist vs. a Widow: Cheryl discusses her insights on grief after becoming a widow.​00:04:15 - The Challenge of Second Year Grief: Discussion of the difficulties of the second year of grief.​00:06:19 - The Marathon of Grief: Grief as an ongoing journey.​00:08:39 - The Importance of Remembering Loved Ones: Significance of remembering deceased loved ones.​00:10:11 - Navigating Conversations About Loss: How to approach conversations about deceased loved ones.​00:12:07 - Therapist Tools for Grief: Using therapy background to navigate grief.​00:13:26 - Allowing Grief Emotions to Surface: Importance of expressing all grief emotions.​00:15:33 - Self-Care and Grief: The necessity of self-care during grieving.​00:18:02 - Finding Support Groups: Benefits of joining support groups.​00:21:43 - Choosing the Right Therapist: Advice on finding a suitable therapist.​00:25:40 - The Goal of Therapy: Guiding individuals through their grief journey.​00:28:38 - Books and Resources for Grief: Recommended resources for grief.​00:30:10 - Grounding Techniques in Therapy: Grounding techniques related to EMDR and trauma.​00:34:05 - Understanding Dissociation: Explanation of dissociation during trauma.​00:39:13 - Reliving Trauma in Therapy: Discussion on reliving traumatic events in therapy.​00:41:14 - Navigating Medical Conversations: Challenges of discussing trauma with medical professionals.​00:45:02 - The Role of the Therapist in Grief: Therapist's role in holding space for clients' grief.

Okay, grab your comfiest blanket and a big ol' bowl of snacks, because the "Every Widow Thing" crew is spilling all their binge-watching addictions! Make sure to stick around until the end for some interesting new trends for those looking for love!They discuss everything from the fun and fantasy of "Younger" to the dark humor in "Bad Sisters" and the emotional rollercoaster of the new Bridget Jones movie, "Mad About the Boy."But it's not all fluff! We're also getting real about how shows like "Shrinking" and "Landman" tackle grief, and how those stories hit home for us. Plus, you won't believe the wild TikTok trend we found about love at... Home Depot?! Seriously. And why the local grocery store soup station might also be worth a shot!Whether you need a good laugh or something to make you think, this episode's got your back. So, hit play and join the pajama party!TIME STAMPS:00:00:00 - Introduction and Lighthearted Topics00:00:20 - Current Shows and Recommendations00:01:30 - Younger: A Fun Fantasy00:02:39 - Schitt's Creek and Bad Sisters00:03:27 - Soothing True Crime Shows00:04:02 - Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy00:05:22 - Grief Themes in Movies00:06:38 - Shrinking: A Grieving Perspective00:08:00 - Handling Widowhood in TV Shows00:10:42 - Cordially Invited: A Family Dynamic00:12:02 - Landman: A Complex Narrative00:15:25 - Virgin River: A Mixed Bag00:16:10 - Home Depot Dating Trend00:19:07 - Soup Flirting and Closing Thoughts

Every Widow Thing enjoyed a super staycation at the charming Poppy Round Top Airbnb, just an hour and a half from Austin, Texas. Over Valentine's Day weekend, they dove into Mel Robbins' inspiring new book, The Let Them Theory. Listeners can expect a heartfelt and relatable discussion as the podcast explores how this book resonates with the widow community, tackling the pressures of people-pleasing and the importance of releasing control. With personal stories and laughs, they share how embracing the "let them" mindset empowers them to reclaim their lives and pursue dreams without the weight of judgment. This episode offers a fun and uplifting conversation, reminding listeners to focus on their own happiness and let others do their thing!Timestamps:00:00:00 - Welcome to Poppy Round TopIntroduction to the staycation and the setting for the podcast episode.00:00:21 - Mel Robbins' The Let Them TheoryDiscussion about Mel Robbins' new book and its relevance to the hosts.00:01:38 - Insights from the BookExploration of key insights from the book and their application in daily life.00:02:55 - Vulnerability and ControlThe impact of vulnerability on relationships and the desire for control, especially in the widow community.00:03:47 - People-Pleasing TendenciesDiscussion on the tendency to please others and the stress it causes, particularly for women.00:04:41 - Empowerment Through Letting GoThe empowering message of the book and the challenges of letting go of control.00:05:56 - Navigating WidowhoodHow the book's concepts apply to the experiences of widows and their journeys.00:07:07 - Judgment from OthersAddressing the judgment widows face from others regarding their choices and timelines.00:09:21 - Awareness of ControlThe importance of recognizing what is within one's control and what is not.00:10:30 - Expressing FeelingsThe significance of expressing feelings rather than suppressing them to avoid resentment.00:12:24 - Finding BalanceThe need for balance in caring for oneself while supporting children through trauma.00:14:59 - Friendship DynamicsReflections on friendships and feelings of exclusion after loss.00:16:30 - Setting BoundariesThe importance of setting boundaries in relationships and personal well-being.00:19:06 - The Role of ChangeUnderstanding that change in others can only happen when they are ready.00:20:38 - Parenting and ControlThe struggle of controlling children's lives and the realization of their independence.00:22:38 - Self-Confidence Through ResponsibilityHow allowing children to take responsibility fosters their self-confidence.00:25:24 - The Power of Letting GoThe transformative power of letting go of control and expectations.00:27:05 - Taking Back PowerThe importance of reclaiming personal power after loss and trauma.00:28:00 - Overcoming Fear of JudgmentThe journey of overcoming the fear of what others think and pursuing personal dreams.00:29:07 - Final Thoughts on DreamsEncouragement to follow one's dreams and the freedom that comes from letting go of others' opinions.

Holly shares about a disappointing date with a man who drove a red Porsche. And, no, it wasn't Jake Ryan. ;) After the holidays, it appears that there are more men on the apps, but is the quality better? That remains to be seen. Hear the widows' take on their dating app experiences and dating overall. Keira met her fiancé on Hinge, so maybe there is hope. (We had a few technical difficulties with the microphones. We have addressed it going forward. Thanks for your patience.)00:00:00 - The Struggles of Young WidowsDiscussion on societal expectations for young widows and the impact on their lives.00:00:26 - Sound Issues AcknowledgmentIntroduction and acknowledgment of sound issues in the episode.00:00:40 - Coping with WidowhoodConversations about coping mechanisms and the ongoing journey of widowhood.00:01:13 - Dating Apps and ExperiencesDiscussion on the influx of people on dating apps in January and personal experiences with them.00:01:39 - First Date ExperienceDetails of a first date at Jeffrey's and the expectations versus reality.00:02:14 - Date DynamicsExploration of the conversation dynamics during the date and the focus on the male perspective.00:03:48 - Revelation of WidowhoodThe challenge of discussing widowhood during the date and the missed opportunities for connection.00:05:14 - Post-Date ReflectionsReactions and feelings after the date, including disappointment and frustration.00:08:07 - Communication After the DateDiscussion on the importance of closing off communication after a date and the common rudeness in dating.00:09:44 - Dating EtiquetteConversations about how to handle dating situations and the importance of being upfront.00:10:56 - The Numbers Game in DatingDiscussion on the idea that dating can be a numbers game and the importance of experience.00:12:11 - The Challenge of GrievingExploration of the complexities of dating while grieving and the emotional toll it takes.00:14:10 - Past RelationshipsReflections on past relationships and the challenges of finding a meaningful connection.00:15:46 - Navigating New RelationshipsDiscussion on the difficulties of dating someone who is also a widower and the complexities involved.00:16:22 - Experiences with Arrogant DatesSharing of experiences with arrogant dates and the impact of their behavior.00:18:04 - Listener Questions on DatingAddressing listener questions about dating and the challenges of blending families.00:20:20 - Setting Boundaries in DatingDiscussion on the importance of setting boundaries when dating someone with children.00:21:14 - Honesty in Dating ConversationsThe significance of being honest about intentions and desires in dating.00:23:39 - Talking to Kids About DatingSharing experiences on how to approach the topic of dating with children.00:25:02 - Keeping Kids Out of the LoopDiscussion on the decision to keep children unaware of dating until it becomes serious.00:27:30 - The Complexity of Blending FamiliesExploration of the challenges faced when blending families and the impact of ex-partners.00:30:25 - Reflections on Past RelationshipsReflections on the emotional challenges of past relationships and the importance of healing.00:32:14 - The Journey of HealingDiscussion on the ongoing journey of healing and the complexities of moving forward.00:35:17 - Future Dating OutlookConversations about future dating plans and the desire for meaningful connections.00:36:40 - Community and SupportEncouragement to join the community for support and shared experiences among widows and widowers.

The widows come back from a holiday party to share some wisdom on the holidays, dating, and more. "It's the most wonderful time to be widowed. NOT" Topics discussed: -How the holiday funk has changed over the years -Taking a break from widowhood -How Whitney gets dating advice from a reality show called Later Daters -Is it stealing or sharing when you share your grief with those who are grieving? -Advice from our present selves to our past selves Join our insider's group on FB to connect with other widows and widowers. https://www.facebook.com/groups/523215036841828 Follow us on social media https://www.instagram.com/everywidowthing/ https://www.facebook.com/everywidowthing