Widowhood Real Talk with Dr. TinaMany 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.


]]>en-usfalseDr. Tina R. Fornwaldhttps://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.orgTina Fornwaldwidowhoodrealtalk@gmail.comepisodicCopyright 2025 l All Rights Reserved l Widowhood Real Talk Tina, Inc. l Tina R. Fornwald The IAP Model: How To Fix Communication Misunderstandings In Grief And Trauma With Patricia TimermanCHXaCn7S7Thu, 07 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT3194https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-iap-model-how-to-fix-communication-misunderstandings-in-grief-and-trauma-with-dr-patricia-timerman/falseWhen navigating the profound landscape of grief or trauma, communication often feels like crossing a minefield. Your mind is foggy, your support system is silent or saying the wrong things, and misunderstandings are inevitable. Why do our best intentions get lost in translation, and how can we repair these crucial connections? In this essential discussion, psychotherapist Dr. Patricia Timerman introduces her revolutionary IAP (Intention, Action, Perception) model. Discover the simple, actionable pattern you can use to bridge the communication gap, stop making hurtful assumptions, and confidently use your voice—even in your foggiest moments. Learn specific tools like the power of the "pause" and the use of code words to ensure you are heard, understood, and supported during your darkest times. If you're ready to fix communication misunderstandings and regain a sense of safety, this conversation is for you.


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/

]]>419Finding Presence In Grief With Ryan Justin JacksonXbM25qLmoThu, 30 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT2892https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/finding-presence-in-grief-with-ryan-justin-jacksonfalseWhat if the secret to navigating your deepest grief isn't moving on, but simply standing still? In this moving conversation, storyteller and communication coach Ryan Justin Jackson shares his deeply personal experience of witnessing his father’s transition and the spiritual awakening that followed. Learn how finding stillness in the present moment can help you navigate the profound trauma of loss, release fear, and reconnect with a love that transcends death.


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/

]]>418Actively Grieving: Choosing Joy After Loss With Kari DriskelljOmxosikKThu, 23 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT2745https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/actively-grieving-choosing-joy-after-loss-with-kari-driskell/falseActively grieving is often described as a heavy shackle, yet Kari Driskell joins us to share the profound realization that while grief is lifelong, the state of active devastation does not have to be. As a widow who turned her personal loss into a "Heart Work" methodology, Kari discusses the vital distinction between the permanent presence of grief and the choice to move toward a sense of aliveness again. We explore the "messy and ugly" reality of parenting through acute loss, the importance of witnessing a friend's sadness without trying to "fix" it with a tissue, and how to nurture that tiny flame of hope that says life can be beautiful again. It is a raw, honest look at the "buffalo" mentality—running straight into the storm of healing to find the calm on the other side.


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/

]]>417How To Give Yourself The Permission To Live After Loss With Kelley RaleighW_ya6UIf8Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT2790https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/how-to-give-yourself-the-permission-to-live-after-loss-with-kelley-raleigh/falseGiving yourself permission to live again after loss can feel unfamiliar and even uncomfortable, and in this conversation with Kelley Raleigh, that tension is explored with honesty, depth, and care. Kelley reflects on becoming a widow at 46 and the disorienting experience of grieving a life that changed in an instant while still choosing to move forward. Her story moves through identity shifts, evolving relationships, and the deeply personal choices that come with rebuilding, including moments that felt messy, unexpected, and real. What unfolds is a thoughtful reflection on grief that makes space for both sorrow and growth, gently challenging the belief that there is only one way to mourn. Through her lived experience, Kelley offers a grounded reminder that even in the midst of profound loss, it is possible to reconnect with yourself and begin shaping a life that still feels meaningful.


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/

]]>416From the Pit to Purpose: Unmasking Resilience and Redemption with Tami Franklin5abv5BIdkThu, 09 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT3330https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/from-the-pit-to-purpose-unmasking-resilience-and-redemption-with-tami-franklin/falseIn this episode, host Tina sits down with Tami Franklin, author of Un-Masked, Un-Broken, Healed & Set Free. Tami shares her raw and honest "lived experience" of surviving the loss of her daughter, Brittany, and her stepson, Christian. After 14 years of trauma therapy and writing, Tami explains why she believes grief is "holy ground" and how resilient faith allowed her to move from a three-year pit of despair to a life of liberation. This conversation is a roadmap for anyone wearing a mask of "fine" while feeling broken, offering a powerful reminder that while we don't always get what we "ordered" from life, healing is an intentional daily choice.


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/

]]>415The Reality Of End Of Life Care With Chaplain Cylon GeorgeqxjykoxFuThu, 02 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT2920https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-reality-of-end-of-life-care-with-chaplain-cylon-george/falseMost people often consider getting end of life care once they have exhausted all other options – but that is when it is all too late. Tina Fornwald sits down with Cylon George, who shares about his work as a seasoned hospice chaplain who bridges clinical support and soulful connection. He dispels different misconceptions about hospice care and emphasizes why conversations about it should not feel dreadful. Chaplain George also explains how to handle the guilt and emotional burden often associated with caregiving, allowing them to live fulfilling lives while ensuring the betterment of other people’s lives.

 

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/

]]>414Love That Stayed20dKAx6LSThu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT1070https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/love-that-stayed/falseThis episode closes out a month of conversations dedicated to love, loss, and remembrance. 


Recorded nine years after the death of my husband, Mark, this final March reflection is not about closure or moving on. It is about what endured. What relocated. What stayed. In this conversation, I speak to both Mark and you, the listener, exploring the idea of continuing bonds and the quiet ways love endures long after loss. I share how grief has changed shape over time, how connection can persist without denial, and how meaning can be made not by letting go, but by carrying love forward.

This episode offers gentle permission to remember, to speak love aloud, and to honor the relationships that continue to shape us even in their absence.


March is ending. Love is not.


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/

]]>413Who I Became Because I Loved You l90wm2jceThu, 19 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT1475https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/who-i-became-because-i-loved-you/falseLove changes us—but sometimes in ways we don’t fully realize until we look back. In this heartfelt reflection, we explore the transformative power of loving someone deeply and how that love shaped the person I became. From lessons in vulnerability to the growth sparked by connection, this story dives into the ways love challenges us, teaches us, and ultimately helps us evolve. Discover how love isn’t just about the other person—it’s about who you become in the process.


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/

]]>412What To Do A Day After Someone’s Passingkwir-hRT7Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT1889https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/what-to-do-a-day-after-someones-passing/falseThe day of your loved one’s passing is indeed a hard time to get through. But unbeknownst to many, the day after their death is much harder to get through. As I remember my late husband Mark on his ninth death anniversary, we explore the often-overlooked emotional weight that happens one day after a special someone dies. I look back on what I learned from the extreme quietness following Mark’s passing and why I continue to embrace gratefulness long after his death. We also uncover why emotional fog is not something you should feel bad about and how to give yourself grace through the immense power of self-care.


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/

]]>411Remembering Who You Were To Me Before You Became A Memory With Dr. Tina Fornwald-hXcS21xmThu, 05 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT1734https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/remembering-who-you-were-to-me-before-you-became-a-memory-with-dr-tina-fornwald/falseHow do you hold the expansive story of a life when all people want to ask about is the ending? Dr. Tina Fornwald dedicates the month of March to remembering the whole person in grief, honoring her late husband, Mark Fornwald, nine years after his passing. In this raw and deeply personal conversation, she speaks directly to Mark, allowing listeners into a 32-year love that shaped her into the woman she is today—a relationship built on mutual strength, laughter, and raising their two children. She shares cherished, untold memories and explains why choosing to continue loving and living with his presence is more important than finding resolution. This is an invitation to witness a love that continues out loud and know you are not alone in your own 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/

]]>410Surviving Grief With An Unrelenting Mindset With Brian FrancisnZBRkqPNjThu, 26 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT3361https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/surviving-grief-with-an-unrelenting-mindset-with-brian-francis/falseAbuse and grief may leave you with deep wounds, but the path to healing will always be open. With an unrelenting mindset, Brian Francis managed to endure a childhood of domestic abuse and the trauma of his father’s death. He tells how he embraced unwavering resilience to write a memoir about his experiences, insights, and realizations to spread inspiration to people who are going through the same struggles. Brian also shares how he gained deeper empathy as a psychiatric nurse, his decision to seek reclassification as a conscientious objector in the Navy, and how he connected with his readers who now feel less alone because of his truth.


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/

]]>49Healing The Shattered Soul: Your Journey Through Grief Transformation with Julie HalbertiwLks2ITyThu, 19 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT2635https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/healing-the-shattered-soul-your-journey-through-grief-transformation-with-julie-halbert/falseMoving through the unimaginable pain of loss is the beginning of a profound grief transformation and conscious new life. Tina Fornwald sits down with Julie Halbert, a Transformational Soul Coach, Death Doula, and former lawyer, to explore the powerful journey from victimhood to light, discussing her upcoming book, Divine Ashes Ascending. They speak the raw truth about the guttural reality of grief, the importance of building community, and how spiritual practice can move us from mere survival to a state of being and profound peace. Julie also sheds light on the often-overlooked emotional needs of grieving sons and the crucial role of the 504 plan in providing accommodations for children in school.


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/

]]>48The Power Of Setting Healthy Boundaries With Regina HiremathG3qD5GaW1Thu, 12 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT3438https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-power-of-setting-healthy-boundaries-with-regina-hiremath/falseSetting healthy boundaries should never restrict you from living your best life, but protect you from getting hurt by external forces out of your control. Author and speaker Regina Hiremath experienced a rough childhood and got into an unhappy marriage, but she handled the wounds of her journey by doing the inner work and creating boundaries in the right places. She shares how overcoming her fear of public speaking and undergoing a self-discovery allowed her to share her story of trauma, domestic violence, and divorce to the world. Regina also explains how to find your own “onesome” and learn to ride the huge waves of life’s challenges.


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/

]]>47Honoring The Empty Spaces Where Grief And Faith Meet With Kirk Byron JonesTOspv_UvgThu, 05 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT2490https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/honoring-the-empty-spaces-where-grief-and-faith-meet-with-kirk-byron-jones/falseWhen profound loss shakes the very foundation of your spirit, causing grief and faith to feel like opposites, where do you turn for a candid conversation? Pastor, spiritual director, and author Kirk Byron Jones joins to share his decades of wisdom on God and spirituality amidst the pain of loss. Dr. Jones advocates for the powerful concept of 'healthy doubt' as an avenue for spiritual growth, and he shares his own personal journey through burnout and struggles with divine trust. He offers essential practices, like his 'Morning Brew' ritual and 'Peace Pockets,' encouraging listeners to embrace rest, 'self-gracing,' and sacred stillness to transform solitude from isolation into a wellspring of compassionate presence.


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/

]]>46Dealing With The Financial Stress Of Loss With Chris BentleyathSHVr90Thu, 29 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT2695https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/dealing-with-the-financial-stress-of-loss-with-chris-bentley/falseLosing a loved one is not just emotionally overwhelming but also legally and financially stressful. When it comes to the financial stress of grief, you should never deal with it all by yourself. Otherwise, you might find yourself broken beyond repair. I sit down with Chris Bentley of Wings for Widows who discusses why you should seek professional help when making major decisions regarding your assets after losing a loved one. He also breaks down the most common mistakes widows – and even widowers – are making after their partner’s passing and what must be done to finally correct it.


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/

]]>45Widowed AF: Widowhood, Grief, And Rebuilding Life After Loss With Rosie Gill-Mossipj060QP3Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT1917https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/widowed-af-widowhood-grief-and-rebuilding-life-after-loss-with-rosie-gill-moss/falseThe 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/

]]>44Grief As A Stepping Stone: How To Start Rebuilding Yourself After Life Falls Apart With Arthur J. Rutledgeqt5qZYbXqThu, 15 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT3185https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/grief-as-a-stepping-stone-how-to-start-rebuilding-yourself-after-life-falls-apart-with-arthur-j-rutledge/falseRebuilding 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/

]]>43Crying + Trying: The Messy, Honest Work Of Healing After Heartbreak With Kim MurrayOKqw8jv83Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT1906https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/crying-plus-trying-the-messy-honest-work-of-healing-after-heartbreak-with-kim-murray/falseGrief 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/

]]>42The Grief 2 Growth Journey: Finding Meaning After The Unimaginable With Brian D. SmithQBiVPGKcBFri, 02 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT3290https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-grief-2-growth-journey-finding-meaning-after-the-unimaginable-with-brian-d-smith/falseThe 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/

]]>41How To Bring Lightness Into Grief With Marie Alessip04c9c6NmFri, 26 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT2655https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/how-to-bring-lightness-into-grief-with-marie-alessi/falseGrief 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/

]]>352Providing Support In The Bereavement World With Linda FindlayWAgFGoAXTThu, 18 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT2617https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/providing-support-in-the-bereavement-world-with-linda-findlay/falseFor 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/

]]>351A Widower's Guide To Grief And Recovery With Herb KnollKFJUq9bgpThu, 11 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT2091https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-widowers-guide-to-grief-and-recovery-with-herb-knoll/falseLosing 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/

]]>350The Five Widows Club: Stories Of Love, Loss, And Living AgainsdxA8UbE9Thu, 04 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT1198https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-five-widows-club-stories-of-love-loss-and-living-again/falseGrief 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/

]]>349Share Your Story: The Healing Power Of Writing With Romana HasenöhrlDE4j1UA3yThu, 27 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT2772https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/share-your-story-the-healing-power-of-writing-with-romana-hasenohrl/falseLearning 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/

]]>348How Widows Should Deal With Their Sex Life With Lexus PowellqEhEzAc-uThu, 20 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT3691https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/how-widows-should-deal-with-their-sex-life-with-lexus-powell/falseAfter 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/

]]>347Glimpse Into The Life Of A Death Doula With Gabrielle JimenezUmTE7u5OzThu, 13 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT3999https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/glimpse-into-the-life-of-a-death-doula-with-gabrielle-jimenez/falseDealing 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/

]]>346The Breath You Require For Navigating The Holidays With Addie GreennVtX7YiTTThu, 06 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT3020https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-breath-you-require-for-navigating-the-holidays-with-addie-green/falseDealing 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/

]]>345A Widower’s Journey To Finding Purpose After Unspeakable Loss With James D. Pricegb8mem9SkThu, 30 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT2434https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-widowers-journey-to-finding-purpose-after-unspeakable-loss-with-james-d-price/falseWhat 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/

]]>344Widowhood Coffee And Chat: Reflections From Another Year Of Life After Loss With Joi Brooks-IxtkGHCZThu, 23 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT2389https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/widowhood-coffee-and-chat-reflections-from-another-year-of-life-after-loss-with-joi-brooks/falseEvery 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/

]]>343Rivers In The Desert: Healing Hearts And Broken Places With Katherine E. ST.HQECEL2HgThu, 16 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT4011https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/rivers-in-the-desert-healing-hearts-and-broken-places-with-katherine-e-stfalseGrief 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/

]]>342Hope Grows Here: Building A Grief Support Community Beyond The Mic0WTGDzUZUThu, 09 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT648https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/hope-grows-here-building-a-grief-support-community-beyond-the-micfalseGrief 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/

]]>341Dealing With Her Husband’s Suicide With Erin CarlsonviclRqEDMThu, 02 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT3440https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/dealing-with-her-husbands-suicide-with-erin-carlson/falseWhat 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/

]]>340Dealing With The Passing Of Family Members With Alicia VossNV_JK4JLbThu, 25 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT3679https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/dealing-with-the-passing-of-family-members-with-alicia-voss/falseLosing 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/

]]>339Securing Life After Death With Pam BakerZzY5YpwwMThu, 18 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT3653https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/securing-life-after-death-with-pam-baker/falseA 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/

]]>338Healing Through Grief: How To Survive After Losing Your Husband And Best Friend With Yvette LloydC0KDLV6bSThu, 11 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT3899https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/healing-through-grief-how-to-survive-after-losing-your-husband-and-best-friend-with-yvette-lloyd/falseGrief, 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

]]>337How To Navigate Widowhood And All The Extra Responsibilities With Donna KendrickCvVeZcHrIThu, 04 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT2635https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/how-to-navigate-widowhood-and-all-the-extra-responsibilities-with-donna-kendrick/falseWhat do you say to your children when their father dies by suicide? How do you get through the days when even taking a shower feels impossible? In this powerful episode, our guest Donna Kendrick opens up about what it really means to navigate widowhood—from surviving the early months of unbearable grief to finding meaning, community, and even love again twelve years later. She shares the raw truth about the what-ifs, how to talk to children about suicide, and why it's okay to laugh, cry, and even get annoyed by that old gym bag. This conversation is a lifeline for anyone facing profound loss—and a reminder that healing doesn't mean forgetting.


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/

]]>336Embracing God’s Presence In Widowhood With Florine HurdlezYb2DZ199Thu, 28 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT4365https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/embracing-gods-presence-in-widowhood-with-florine-hurdle/falseWidowhood is often associated with brokenness, depression, and isolation. But amidst the loneliness after losing a loved one, there is one thing that will never go away: God’s presence. I sit down with Florine Hurdle, author of two amazing books about widowhood, who shares how her faith carried her through the lowest point of her grieving journey. She talks about her own widowhood community, where she leads a sisterhood that supports and guides each other towards personal growth. Florine also discusses why widows should never suppress their feelings of rediscovering love and why romance will always be part of their lives.


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/

]]>335The Tips You Need To Sell And Purchase A Home After Your Spouse Dies With Jose Reyes Jr.Z4tzgkvHNThu, 21 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT4119https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-tips-you-need-to-sale-and-purchase-a-home-after-your-spouse-dies-with-jose-reyes-jr/falseAside from dealing with grief after losing the love of your life, there is also the burden of sorting out your possessions, primarily your home. Jose Reyes Jr., a realtor with REMAX and a widower, is here to discuss how to handle a home sale and purchase after your spouse dies. He explores practical advice on handling these real estate deals, which is sometimes made more complicated because of the owner’s widowhood background. Jose also explains the importance of being financially prepared, prioritizing empathy at all times, and embracing self-compassion when dealing with the legal aspects of letting go or acquiring your own home.


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.


]]>334Death, Dollars, And Moving Forward: Philip Weiss Talks Widowhood Finances-oDIbdH4HThu, 14 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT2020https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/death-dollars-and-moving-forward-philip-weiss-talks-widowhood-finances/falseLosing a spouse is a life-altering event that can throw everything, especially finances, into disarray. In this episode, Tina Fornwald welcomes Philip Weiss, founder of Apprise Wealth Management and seasoned financial expert with over 25 years of experience, to unpack the complexities of navigating finances after widowhood. Phil, holding prestigious credentials like CFA, CPA, and RLP, delves into practical tips for regaining confidence in financial management, the crucial importance of tax planning, and strategies to secure financial futures. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking guidance and clarity during challenging transitions, as Phil shares his personal journey and professional expertise to empower listeners towards financial well-being.


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/

]]>333The Art Of Living With Grief With Carol Banens8KIHjg0whThu, 07 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT2810https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-art-of-living-with-grief-with-carol-banens/falseExperiencing the profound journey of living with grief, especially after the loss of a spouse, can feel incredibly isolating and overwhelming. In this episode, Tina Fornwald welcomes Carol Banens, author of Kintsugi Your Heart and certified grief educator, to share her personal experience and expert insights. Carol unravels common myths surrounding grief, discusses the physical and emotional impacts of loss, and provides ten essential self-care practices to aid in the healing process. You’ll hear candid conversations about the lethargy of grief, the challenges of returning to daily life, and the power of community support, particularly through Carol’s monthly Grief Cafe. Learn about active mourning, the importance of self-compassion, and how to navigate the unique timeline of grief to find hope and healing. Whether you’re a widow or supporting someone through loss, this conversation offers valuable guidance and a reminder that you're not alone on this 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


]]>332Unfiltered Moments Of Grief: Love, Loss, And Memory With Shundra Chamberliss S_y78bo6HThu, 31 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT2778https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/unfiltered-moments-of-grief-love-loss-and-memory-with-shundra-chamberliss/falseIn a world where loss leaves echoes, how do we navigate the labyrinth of memory? Join us as Shundra Chamberliss bravely confronts the hidden corners of grief, where the past intertwines with the present in unexpected ways. Discover how life's diverse experiences shape our sorrow and what happens when grief is complicated by more than just the absence of a loved one. Get ready for a candid conversation that will explore the power of unlocking buried memories and the profound impact of our moments of grief. This is widowhood, unfiltered.


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/

]]>331Your Story Isn't Over: Life After Widowhood With Rachel Powell KBau4yVHBThu, 24 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT3368https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/your-story-isnt-over-life-after-widowhood-with-rachel-powell/falseHave you ever felt like your world has been reduced to rubble? Like the very foundation beneath you has crumbled, leaving you lost and wondering if there's anything left to build upon? Our guest today, Rachel Powell, knows that feeling intimately. After the profound loss of her husband, she found herself navigating the bewildering landscape of life after widowhood. But what she discovered in the depths of her pain was not an ending, but a new beginning.


Join us as Rachel bravely shares her journey through unimaginable grief, the surprising pivot points that led her from despair to hope, and the powerful realization that even when life looks irrevocably broken, your story isn't over yet. Get ready for an honest and deeply moving conversation about finding strength in the ruins, rediscovering joy amidst sorrow, and the unexpected foundations that can emerge when everything else falls away. This is an episode you won't want to miss.


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.



]]>330From Heartbreak to Healing: Life After Loss With AJ Colemanv78lOUwtaThu, 17 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT3409https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/from-heartbreak-to-healing-life-after-loss-with-aj-coleman/falseWhat does it really mean to move forward—not just move on—after unimaginable loss?"


In this heartfelt continuation of last week's episode, AJ Coleman returns to The Widowhood to open up about his journey as a single father after the devastating loss of his wife, Cory. With rare vulnerability, he shares the quiet strength it took to raise his daughter alone, the moment he found his voice, and the surprising way writing a book helped him heal. We talk about grief, growth, and the pressure to find purpose too soon. If you’ve ever questioned how to start again, this episode reminds us: healing isn’t linear—and you don’t have to rush your way through it. Let’s dive in.

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/

]]>329Avoid Becoming A Catfishing Victim With AJ ColemanorQVjyGOWThu, 10 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT2744https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/avoid-becoming-a-catfishing-victim-with-aj-coleman/falseWidows and widowers often become victims of catfishing schemes because of the false notion that they have immense wealth and overflowing bank accounts. But most of the time, they have already exhausted their money to pay for funeral and medical bills. AJ Coleman is here to share some preventive measures to avoid being catfished, especially if you are in the online dating scene. He breaks down some warning signs of fraud and the common tactics fraudsters use to target vulnerable individuals on the internet. AJ also explains how to report catfishing, why you do not have to suffer from shame after being a victim, and why trusting your gut is your most valuable weapon.


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.



]]>328From Ordinary To Extraordinary Life: Healing After Loss With Eileen Bild34Ww0AkKtThu, 03 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT2601https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/from-ordinary-to-extraordinary-life-healing-after-loss-with-eileen-bildfalseWhat if the key to peace during grief isn’t moving on—but moving within? In this deeply meaningful episode, we sit down with the powerful and compassionate Eileen Bild—CEO of Ordinary to Extraordinary Life, founder of the Core Thinking Blueprint Method, Breakthrough S.P.A.R.K. coach, and host of OTEL Talk. With a Master’s in transpersonal psychology and a mission to help people become unstoppable, Eileen brings wisdom and warmth to a tender topic: finding peace in the journey of widowhood.


We dive into her five core principles for success, explore the science of neural pathways in the grieving process, and learn how to maintain a spiritual connection with those we’ve lost. Whether you’re navigating a personal loss or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers grace, grounding, and gentle guidance. So take a breath—this one’s for the heart.


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/

]]>327Hope After Heartbreak: Grief, God, And The Long Road Back With Dr. Maurice BallXk07GFYL6Thu, 26 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT2484https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/hope-after-heartbreak-grief-god-and-the-long-road-back-with-dr-maurice-ballfalseWhat happens when grief feels like crawling through hot lava? When the weight of loss makes it hard to breathe, let alone believe? In this deeply moving episode of The Widowhood, Dr. Maurice Ball joins us to share his raw and powerful journey of hope after heartbreak, anger at God, and the long road toward healing after the death of his father. Together, we unpack the messy mosaic of grief—how it shatters us, how we begin to pick up the pieces, and how, over time, we learn to separate pain from life. Whether you're deep in your own grief or walking beside someone who is, this conversation is a beacon of hope, truth, and community.


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/

]]>326The Miracle Of Marrying My Heart: A Journey From Heartbreak To Hope With Susan PetersycDm7jMXbThu, 19 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT2757https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-miracle-of-marrying-my-heart-a-journey-from-heartbreak-to-hope-with-susan-peters/falseImagine being thrown into the depths of grief and coming out the other side with a heart that's not just healed, but stronger than ever. Today’s guest, Susan Peters, shares her transformative journey from heartbreak to hope. After the sudden loss of her beloved husband, Susan embarked on a path that not only helped her reconnect with her heart but also led her to embrace new dreams and a deeper purpose. In this heartfelt conversation, she shares lessons on how heartbreak can be a gateway to greater strength, resilience, and authenticity. Whether you're navigating grief or simply seeking a fresh perspective on life’s challenges, Susan’s wisdom and courage will guide you toward embracing your own heart's journey. Stay tuned for an enlightening discussion on how to transform loss into an opportunity for profound personal growth.


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/

]]>325Voices Of The Grieving Heart: From Heartbreak To Healing With Mike Bernhardt QONi8npVvThu, 12 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT3178https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/voices-of-the-grieving-heart-from-heartbreak-to-healing-with-mike-bernhardt/falseToday, we’re honored to sit down with Mike Bernhardt, editor of Voices of the Grieving Heart—an extraordinary anthology of poetry, essays, and artwork created by 83 individuals from around the world. These aren’t polished poems from literary giants—they are raw, real expressions from people navigating the depths of grief and the slow rise toward healing. Mike isn’t just an editor—he’s lived this loss. After the sudden passing of his first wife over 30 years ago, his life was forever changed. In this deeply moving conversation, Mike opens up about the journey from devastation to transformation, and how writing—his own and others’—can be a light in the darkest of times. Whether your grief is fresh or decades old, this conversation will meet you where you are. Let’s step into this space together.


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/

]]>324Healing Grief Through The Gut: Emotional Eating, Inner Wisdom, And The Power Of Listening To Your Body With Shirley Billigmeiers0dEBi2lRThu, 05 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT2197https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/healing-grief-through-the-gut-emotional-eating-inner-wisdom-and-the-power-of-listening-to-your-body-with-shirley-billigmeier/falseWhat if the way to healing your heart isn't through your head... but through your gut? In this episode, we welcome Shirley Billigmeier—author, intuitive coach, and gut-brain expert—for a powerful conversation on grief, food, and reclaiming your inner wisdom. Shirley shares how emotional eating, especially after deep loss, is often not about willpower—but about unspoken sadness and a longing for connection. You’ll learn why you were born with built-in hunger cues, what your gut is trying to tell you, and how listening to your body—truly listening—can transform your relationship with food, water, and ultimately, yourself. Whether you’re carrying extra “storage” or simply craving peace after loss, this episode will open your eyes (and heart) to what’s really happening beneath the surface.


Quote:

“The appearance of the body is a visual, an interpretation of our brain. It is not a sensation felt internally, like hunger. Innergetics has proven that honoring the gut’s simple hunger and taste messages will result in a slender body that is balanced overall. In contrast, a narrow focus on the size of the body will only result in continuous struggle and frustration; intellectualizing about food actually blocks information that our body sends about hunger, satisfaction, and other needs and feelings. In essence, work is created where there is meant to be no work. Eating is natural, is pleasurable, gives energy, and was never meant to interfere with our creative minds.”


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.



]]>323Finding Strength In Widowhood: 14 Lessons On Healing & Hope-Ct4wEooEThu, 29 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT1551https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/finding-strength-in-widowhood-14-lessons-on-healing-hope/falseGrief can feel isolating, but the truth is, you're not alone. In this episode, Tina Fornwald shares her widowhood journey, opening up about the 14 lessons she learned across struggles and surprising moments of healing after loss. From the power of community to embracing new purpose, Tina explores the realities of life after losing a spouse. She reflects on the emotions, memories, and unexpected challenges, offering heartfelt insights for those walking a similar path. Whether you're grieving, supporting a loved one, or searching for hope, this conversation provides comfort and understanding.


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/

]]>322The Complexities Of Grief: Finding Strength After Loss With Amy ShawfsASH1vuTThu, 22 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT2603https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-complexities-of-grief-finding-strength-after-loss-with-amy-shaw/falseGrief is a powerful and transformative experience that touches us all in different ways. In this poignant episode, Amy Shaw shares her journey through profound love and the depths of grief following the loss of her husband. Married for nearly 25 years and having built a large family, Amy faced the unimaginable when her husband received a devastating diagnosis. This conversation explores the many facets of grief, from the initial shock and pain to the ongoing process of healing and finding strength. Amy's story offers insights into navigating grief, honoring loved ones, and discovering resilience in the face of loss. It's a testament to the enduring power of love and the human spirit's capacity to find meaning even amidst profound grief.

 

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/

]]>321A Journey Of Healing Through Motherless Mother’s Days With Jasmine Burch w6LvROhH6Thu, 15 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT2812https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-journey-of-healing-through-motherless-mothers-days-with-jasmine-burch/falseAs we approach Mother’s Day, today’s episode is a heartfelt tribute to the unseen journeys of grief, healing, and connection. Our special guest, Jasmine Burch, offers a powerful perspective that’s often left unspoken—the experience of losing a parent as a child. At just 21 years old, Jasmine has turned her personal pain into wisdom, using journaling, community, and open conversation to navigate grief and find her voice. In this deeply moving conversation, she shares how she went from bottling up her feelings to building a supportive space—first online, and now through the Widowhood community. Whether you’ve experienced loss or love someone who has, this episode will open your heart and give you the words you’ve been longing to hear. Let’s step into the Widowhood with Jasmine.


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/

]]>320Honoring My Late Husband Everyday With Sarah Johnston9LCdWLh7dThu, 08 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT2830https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/honoring-my-late-husband-everyday-with-sarah-johnston/falseWhen someone loses a partner to suicide, their grief journey is vastly different from other people. Sarah Johnston’s life changed forever in 2016 when her spouse took her own life, and now she wears purple every day to honor her late husband’s memory. In our conversation, Sarah looks back on how she discovered the right support group to guide her through the grieving journey, which is unfortunately riddled with stigma and blame when it comes to suicide loss. She also opens up on how she deals with people who put her under scrutiny for her husband’s death, showing them compassion instead of hatred.


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.



]]>319The Art Of Moving Forward With Marcia Boarders And Tina FornwaldBIU2Pp2YMThu, 01 May 2025 10:00:00 GMT2784https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-art-of-moving-forward-with-marcia-boarders-and-tina-fornwald/falseI sit down with my guest host and upcoming podcaster Marcia Boarders as I open up about my experiences with widowhood and my very own process of moving forward. I discuss why dealing with grief does not necessarily require you to jump back immediately into the dating scene and remarry – it is all about choosing and loving yourself. I talk about my own dating experience after my husband’s passing, which is centered on intentionality and purpose. I also emphasize the importance of having a supportive community and the benefits of undergoing therapy when navigating through 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/

]]>318Understanding The Complexities Of Grief With Nikki Boone7cG9ERUSIThu, 24 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT2536https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/understanding-the-complexities-of-grief-with-nikki-boone/falseGrief is never a straightforward concept. It is so utterly complex that it cannot be described in just a few words, and every single person has their own unique grieving journey. Nikki Boone is here to share her fair share of grief, and it is as complicated as it can be. She opens up about her struggle with identity crisis after finding out she was adopted, as well as her battle with anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. She shares how grief shaped her relationship with her biological mother, her mother-in-law, and her children. Nikki also discusses practical tips on preparing your last will promptly to avoid messy circumstances later in life or when you pass away.


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.

]]>317Yolanda White’s Intentional Healing JourneywE0NQR4T_Thu, 17 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT4094https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/yolanda-whites-intentional-healing-journey/falseNo one deserves to lose their spouse in an untimely manner, but such is the bitter reality of life sometimes. Yolanda White became a widow at a pretty young age, and she initially drowned in isolation and depression. But thanks to social media, she found a community that helped her through the grieving journey and allowed her to undergo an intentional healing process. Tune in to our conversation as Yolanda looks back on the challenges of navigating grief with young children, the difficulties of celebrating holidays and anniversaries after her husband’s passing, and the importance of focusing on self-care despite the sadness.


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.

]]>316Unbreakable Hope: A Journey Of Resilience And Inspiration With Patricia PinchinatYBX6nyDehThu, 10 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT2916https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/unbreakable-hope-a-journey-of-resilience-and-inspiration-with-patricia-pinchinat/falseHope is a powerful force that keeps us moving forward even in the face of life's greatest challenges. In this episode, I am honored to welcome Patricia Pinchinat, a woman whose journey of resilience, transformation, and self-discovery is nothing short of inspiring. From overcoming life-altering health battles to redefining self-care and boundaries, Patricia shares her raw and deeply personal experiences with honesty and strength. We explore the lessons she’s learned, the power of saying no, and the importance of truly living life. This soul-stirring conversation will leave you igniting a fire within to live a life that's truly, vibrantly yours.


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/

]]>315Finding Freedom: Overcoming Limiting Beliefs After Loss With Tina Kadish_XceDAzmPThu, 03 Apr 2025 10:00:00 GMT3054https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/finding-freedom-overcoming-limiting-beliefs-after-loss-with-tina-kadish/falseFreedom is a word that takes on new meaning after loss. In this episode, I sit down with Tina Kadish, author of From Pain to Peace: A Mother's Heartbreaking Journey Through Losing a Child and F.R.E.E.D.O.M.: 7 Steps to Thrive in Life and Business. She bravely shares her story of navigating the shattering loss of her daughter, revealing how she redefined freedom in the face of unimaginable pain. Prepare to be inspired as we delve into the potent alchemy of faith, mindset shifts, and the unwavering pursuit of purpose that propelled her forward. Join us for this heartfelt conversation on loss, legacy, and the strength to keep going.


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/

]]>314From Loss To Self-Discovery: A Widow's 16-Year Path To Wellbeing With Laura CrossdkWGlEuCnThu, 20 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT2968https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/from-loss-to-self-discovery-a-widows-16-year-path-to-wellbeing-with-laura-cross/falseEmbark on a 16-year journey of healing and transformation with Laura Cross, a remarkable woman who has navigated the complexities of widowhood and emerged stronger than ever. In this episode, Laura shares her deeply personal story of loss, resilience, and self-discovery, offering a unique perspective on the long-term impact of grief and the ongoing process of healing. She discusses the challenges and triumphs she has experienced along the way, the importance of self-care, and the transformative power of community and connection. Tune in to discover how Laura's journey can inspire hope and empower other widows to embrace their own paths toward well-being.

 

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/

]]>312The Brave Widow's Guide To Healing And Hope With Emily TannerDEd9yfb_bThu, 13 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT2599https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-brave-widows-guide-to-healing-and-hope-with-emily-tanner/falseThis episode is dedicated to empowering brave widows to find hope and healing after loss. Join Emily Tanner, founder of the Brave Widow community, as she shares her powerful journey through grief. She offers practical strategies and insights on rebuilding your life and finding joy again. Discover the importance of community, self-care, and emotional healing as you navigate the challenges of widowhood. Emily's inspiring story will empower you to embrace your future with courage and create a life you truly love.

 

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/

]]>311All Grief Is The Same And All Grief Is Different: A Double Widow’s Story With Andrea Lott Haneyb49Ebcuv9Thu, 06 Mar 2025 11:00:00 GMT4314https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/all-grief-is-the-same-and-all-grief-is-different-a-double-widows-story-with-andrea-lott-haney/falseGrief is a universal experience, yet every journey through loss is unique. In this episode, Andrea Lott Haney shares her extraordinary story of navigating the complexities of double widowhood. Andrea opens up about the profound grief and emotional challenges of losing two spouses, offering a unique perspective on the similarities and differences in grieving multiple losses. She discusses the importance of self-care, community support, and faith in her healing journey, and provides inspiration for others facing adversity. Tune in to hear Andrea's courageous story and discover how to find hope and meaning in the face of life's greatest challenges.

 

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/

]]>310Grief Almost Had Me: The Journey Of Finding Peace And Strength With Kimberly ByersDaYHlLTrmThu, 27 Feb 2025 11:00:00 GMT3285https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/grief-almost-had-me-the-journey-of-finding-peace-and-strength-with-kimberly-byers/falseGrief doesn’t have a timeline, and healing isn’t linear. In this episode, Tina Fornwald sits down with Kimberly Byers, author of Grief Almost Had Me! Peace Brought Me Out, to explore the realities of widowhood, loss, and the power of community in healing. Kimberly shares her personal story of navigating grief, why she believes widowhood should feel like a sisterhood instead of isolation, and how self-care plays a crucial role in the healing process. She also discusses her faith, the importance of journaling, and how her books provide a step-by-step approach to moving forward after loss. If you’re struggling with grief or know someone who is, this conversation is a powerful reminder that peace is possible, even after loss.



Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>39Unmasking Masculinity: Love, Healing, And True Identity With Ronald Zion Roseboro SXAoY-jgmThu, 20 Feb 2025 11:00:00 GMT3003https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/unmasking-masculinity-love-healing-and-true-identity-with-ronald-zion-roseboro/falseWhat does it mean to truly love yourself? In this episode, we sit down with Ronald Zion Roseboro to dive into his powerful book, Woman, If You Only Knew. From personal struggles to deep revelations, Ronald shares his journey of self-discovery, healing, and what it means to embrace authentic masculinity. We’ll uncover the hidden struggles many men face but rarely speak about, how childhood wounds shape relationships and self-worth, the difference between conditional and unconditional love, and so much more. Whether you’re navigating grief, relationships, or your own path to healing, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Tune in and discover what true communication and self-love really look like.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>38Valentine's Day Tips For The Grieving HeartsD34tKSI2mThu, 13 Feb 2025 11:00:00 GMT1252https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/valentines-day-tips-for-the-grieving-hearts/falseValentine's Day can be a bittersweet reminder of love and loss for those who are grieving a spouse. This episode offers gentle guidance and support for navigating this emotionally charged day. Discover thoughtful ways you can show up for a grieving friend or family member, from simple gestures of acknowledgment to practical offers of help. We also dive deep into self-care strategies for widows and widowers, including managing grief triggers, honoring cherished memories, and practicing radical self-compassion. This episode is a compassionate guide to surviving Valentine's Day while honoring the pain, love, and healing journey of those who have lost a spouse.

 

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/

]]>37When Hope Feels Lost: The Power To Transform After Widowhood With Debbie Weissg8mfqvocOThu, 06 Feb 2025 11:00:00 GMT4725https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/when-hope-feels-lost-the-power-to-transform-after-widowhood-with-debbie-weiss/falseAfter the unexpected loss of her husband, widowhood became a turning point that sparked a new chapter in Debbie Weiss' life. Debbie joins us to share how widowhood unexpectedly launched her on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Debbie opens up about navigating grief, redefining her identity, and finding the strength to embrace new possibilities after loss. From redecorating her bedroom to writing the books On Second Thought... Maybe I Can and The Sprinkle Effect: A Guide to Creating a More Colorful and Fulfilling Life, Debbie's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of saying 'yes' to life, even when it takes you in unexpected directions.

 

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/

]]>36Widow Dating Experience With Francisco Rodriguez & Jessica ZoellerNpP_DxuTzThu, 30 Jan 2025 11:00:00 GMT4643https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/widow-dating-experience-with-francisco-rodriguez-jessica-zoeller/falseDating as a widow and widower is not just about finding companionship. This particular dating experience is also about rebuilding trust, rediscovering joy, and embracing new beginnings. In this thought-provoking conversation, I welcome Francisco Rodriguez and Jessica Zoeller to explore the unique challenges and profound opportunities widows and widowers face when stepping back into the dating world. Together, they discuss practical advice, emotional resilience, and inspiring stories of hope. Tune in as these two amazing souls offer a roadmap for healing and connection whether you are navigating this journey yourself or supporting a loved one.


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: Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World

]]>35A Widower's Journey Of Hope With Francisco R.mTkQePtj_Thu, 23 Jan 2025 11:00:00 GMT5971https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-widowers-journey-of-hope-with-francisco-r/falseI sit down with Francisco R. who opens up about his widower's journey, as well as his complex experiences with love, loss, and the complexities of grief. We delve into his unique perspective on navigating life after the sudden passing of his wife, Audra. From the challenges of long-distance dating, the unexpected health struggles, to the importance of open communication about death, this episode offers a poignant and insightful look at the realities of grief. Discover how to find the strength to move forward and fully appreciate the resilience of the human spirit.


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: Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>34Widowhood Through A Therapist's Lens With Jessica ZoellerLzf5t0pF7Thu, 16 Jan 2025 11:00:00 GMT7061https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/widowhood-through-a-therapists-lens-with-jessica-zoeller/falseWhen the therapist becomes a widow, what happens next? Who will be the one to support them? Can they support themselves? Jessica Zoeller, a therapist, candidly shares how she handled this very situation after the death of her husband. She recounts their whirlwind romance, the challenges of relocating and building a family, and the devastating impact of his cancer diagnosis. Jessica opens up about the emotional turmoil of caregiving, the importance of finding support during grief, and her inspiring mission to help other young widows. She also reflects on navigating life after loss, finding a new purpose, and prioritizing her children's happiness.


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


]]>33Mental Health Amidst Grief And Recovery With Jessica ZoellerhTHIIOcCHThu, 09 Jan 2025 11:00:00 GMT4353https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/mental-health-amidst-grief-and-recovery-with-jessica-zoeller/falseTaking care of your mental health is crucial, especially after losing an important person in your life. In this episode, I talk with clinical mental health counselor Jessica Zoeller about navigating grief and trauma while looking after your well-being. Jessica shares her experiences with loss and the importance of finding the right therapist for your mental health journey. We dive into the different approaches to therapy, the mind-body connection in grief, and how parents should guide children through the grieving process. Tune in to learn how to prioritize your mental well-being and find the help you deserve.


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/

]]>32Grateful For You: Widowhood Real Talk Turns 3 This 2025!pKJXdBJ_eFri, 03 Jan 2025 11:00:00 GMT1492https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/grateful-for-you-widowhood-real-talk-turns-3-this-2025/falseWelcome to the first episode of 2025! Join Tina Fornwald as she kicks off the year with a heartfelt message of gratitude and a vision for the future of the Widowhood Real Talk podcast and community. She reflects on the importance of community, connection, and creating a safe space for the bereaved to thrive. Plus, she shares insights from Brené Brown's book "Rising Strong," emphasizing the power of vulnerability, self-compassion, and staying true to your own grief journey. Tune in to be inspired and discover how you can become an active part of the Widowhood Real Talk community in 2025!

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


]]>31Catherine Fornwald: A Daughter's Perspective On Grief And Loss4YQUwpRloThu, 26 Dec 2024 11:00:00 GMT4077https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/catherine-fornwald-a-daughters-perspective-on-grief-and-lossfalseEven though children are expected to be the ones to take care of their parents later in life, losing them is still a challenging phase to get through. In this episode, we get a daughter’s perspective on grief and loss as I sit down with my own daughter, Catherine Fornwald. Together, we look back on the day we lost my husband and her father, as well as how we dealt with the grieving process that followed. We also provide a unique glimpse into the different ways grief can manifest and the importance of open communication and support within a family. Prepare to be moved by their candid reflections and gain a deeper understanding of the long-lasting effects of grief.


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's Suicide Prevention Hotlines & Resources.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>252Evaluating The Realities Of Widowhood With Joi Brooksjny_kNBKVThu, 19 Dec 2024 11:00:00 GMT4756https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/evaluating-the-realities-of-widowhood-with-joi-brooks/falseBefore embarking on a new chapter in life, many face the profound and often isolating experience of widowhood. In this poignant episode, Joi Brooks shares her deeply personal journey through widowhood, reflecting on her life after the loss of her husband, Harry. With humor and heart, she navigates the complexities of adjusting to a new routine while cherishing the memory of Harry and the little things that remind her of him, like his t-shirts and quirks around the house. Joi talks about the challenges of balancing work, retirement, and the grief of losing a partner. This episode offers a moving look at resilience, loneliness, and the quiet joys of continuing to honor a lost love.


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/

]]>251Divinely Led Love: Trusting God’s Plan And Finding Healing With Dana Hueston34uvcmO9AThu, 12 Dec 2024 11:00:00 GMT5032https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/divinely-led-love-trusting-gods-plan-and-finding-healing-with-dana-hueston/falseLove is not always easy, but it is always worth the journey. In this powerful episode, Dana Hueston shares her emotional journey of finding love, guided by God's plan. Dana embraced a period of singlehood, determined to honor her promise to God. When she married John, they were tested by life's challenges, including infidelity. Dana's faith and patience were pivotal in their relationship's growth, as John respected her boundaries, and through counseling and personal struggles, they found healing and a deeper connection. Dana’s story reveals the transformative power of faith, respect, and God's timing in shaping a love that endures life's trials.

 

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/

]]>250Forever My Brother: A Journey Through Grief And Light With Nina RodriguezX6EEv0x9LThu, 05 Dec 2024 11:00:00 GMT5217https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/forever-my-brother-a-journey-through-grief-and-light-with-nina-rodriguez/falseGrief is a universal experience, yet it manifests uniquely for each individual. In this episode, Nina Rodriguez delves into sibling grief and the often-unseen struggles of those who have lost a brother or sister. Nina discusses the challenges of navigating grief within a family dynamic, where parents may be consumed by their sorrow, and the importance of extending grace to one another. She highlights the unspoken truths of masking grief at work and in families, stressing the importance of open communication and acknowledging loss. Join us for an honest and heartfelt conversation about coping with grief, honoring the memory of loved ones, and finding healing in the face of unimaginable 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/

]]>249The Gift Of Memories: Love’s Legacy During The Holidays6VtXo0aE8Thu, 28 Nov 2024 11:00:00 GMT2390https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-gift-of-memories-loves-legacy-during-the-holidays/falseDuring the holidays, grief can feel particularly overwhelming. Happy memories with a loved one who already transitioned flood in amid the season’s festive mood, and it is certainly a bittersweet feeling. In this episode, I cherish the memories of my late husband Mark through letters, photos, and cherished possessions. As I reminisce on our time together, I also talk about the significance of finding comfort in your loved one’s memories and how to manage your own grief as it hits you hard during the holidays. Join me as I guide you through this emotional landscape and support you in navigating this season with intention and grace.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>248Coping With A Son’s Murder With Laureen Flood RiversreoZ_P-R-Thu, 21 Nov 2024 11:00:00 GMT4304https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/coping-with-a-sons-murder-with-laureen-flood-rivers/falseNo mother should be burying their children, and no mother deserves to deal with their son’s murder. Unfortunately for Laureen Flood Rivers, she had to face the heavy burden of losing her son to gun violence in 2003. In this episode, she looks back on her story of grief, isolation, and coping after the brutal death of her son, as well as how it shook and ultimately transformed her relationship with God. She recounts how she let go of anger and found inner peace after forgiving those responsible for his murder. Laureen also emphasizes the urgent need to take action, especially from church communities, to finally put an end to the vicious cycle of gun and gang violence.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.



Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>247A Mother's Grief: Finding Strength And Healing After Loss With Cheryl ScruggsdmQxeycuoThu, 14 Nov 2024 11:00:00 GMT4591https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-mothers-grief-finding-strength-and-healing-after-loss-with-cheryl-scruggs/false"It is what it is. I'm going to live here out loud." Cheryl Scruggs joins Tina Fornwald for a raw and vulnerable conversation about navigating the turbulent waters of a mother’s grief. After experiencing a series of devastating losses, including the passing of her daughter, Stephanie, Cheryl opens up about her struggles with mental health, suicidal thoughts, and the complexities of grieving multiple losses at once. She shares her journey of healing, the importance of finding your community, and how her faith has guided her through the darkest of times. Cheryl also discusses her book, Surviving Grief, and her podcast of the same name, where she shares her story and offers support to others who are grieving. This episode is a powerful reminder that even in the face of immense pain, there is hope for healing and that by embracing vulnerability, we can find strength and connection with others.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>246Turning Loss Into Legacy: The Power Of Estate Planning With Adam ZuckermanHPLBiubPlThu, 07 Nov 2024 11:00:00 GMT4444https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/turning-loss-into-legacy-the-power-of-estate-planning-with-adam-zuckerman/falseEstate planning is more than just paperwork—it’s about securing a legacy for your loved ones. In this powerful episode, Adam Zuckerman, founder of Buried in Work, shares how the loss of his father motivated him to build a company focused on transforming estate planning into a meaningful process for families. Adam talks about the importance of preparing for the unexpected and how his journey through grief inspired him to help others navigate the emotional and practical aspects of planning for the future. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, how to turn loss into purpose, and how estate planning can be a source of strength and connection.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>245Understanding The Realities Of Widowhood97epjZYLkThu, 31 Oct 2024 10:00:00 GMT1829https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/understanding-the-realities-of-widowhood/falseThe journey of widowhood can be a lonely road, but remember, you're not alone. In this episode, you'll find a raw and honest look into the complexities of widowhood. It breaks down the enduring nature of grief, debunking the myth that it magically fades after a year. This episode reflects on how losing a spouse transforms identity and emphasizes the importance of community support during this difficult time. Be encouraged to embrace new identities and to find joy in life again, while also fostering understanding and empathy among those supporting the bereaved. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about navigating life after 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>244Here With You: Navigating Grief As A Family With Kellie KaminskastA0QvvWaBThu, 24 Oct 2024 10:00:00 GMT2209https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/here-with-you-navigating-grief-as-a-family-with-kellie-kaminskas/falseJourney through love, loss, and healing with the heartwarming children’s book Here With You. Join Kellie Kaminskas, the author, as she shares her journey as a widow and how she found solace in writing a book to help children understand grief. Her son, who lost his father at a tender age, played a crucial role in the creation of this book. Together, they've found healing through the process, and their journey is sure to resonate with you. Kellie talks about self-publishing challenges, the need for support, and the positive response from readers who relate to her work. Let Kellie’s words inspire you as she shares her moving story of love, loss, and the power of storytelling.


Kellie’s book:

Title: Here With You

Publish Date: July 15 2024

Trade Paperback ISBN: 979-8-218-38222-3

Ebook ASIN: B0CW1JBSC2

Format: Trade Paperback and Digital

Available for purchase: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Powell’s, Apple Books, etc.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>243Mourning To Meaning: Teresea Archaga On Healing, Loss, And Finding PurposeXUUZ_qEGsThu, 17 Oct 2024 10:00:00 GMT2991https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/mourning-to-meaning-teresea-archaga-on-healing-loss-and-finding-purposefalseIn this episode, we welcome Teresea Archaga, a Certified Grief Counselor and support group practitioner with the American Academy of Grief Counseling, who has turned her mourning into a mission to help others. Teresea has experienced several significant losses in her life which led her on a journey of healing and self-discovery, and she has made it her mission to help others navigate their own grief journeys. In this conversation, Teresea shares her personal story of loss and grief, and she discusses how she has found purpose in serving others. She also offers practical advice for those who are grieving, and she encourages them to seek support from others. If you are interested in learning more about grief and how to cope with loss, then this is an episode you won't want to miss.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.

]]>242Permission To Grieve: Getting Through Loss With Suzanne JabourhvKdM3FHQThu, 10 Oct 2024 10:00:00 GMT3205https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/permission-to-grieve-getting-through-loss-with-suzanne-jabourfalseIn a society that does not know how to properly deal with people who are getting through the loss of a loved one, one must learn how to give themselves permission to grieve in their own way. Suzanne Jabour, a certified grief educator and transformational coach, is changing the paradigm around grief through her very own three-pronged approach. She explains how individuals can navigate through grief according to their own terms, as well as what it takes to create grief-resilient workplaces. Suzanne also celebrates his son Ben who died at 22 and shares how she cherishes his memory by sharing stories about him.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.

]]>241Awaken & Renew Grief Coaching With Emily CurtisdL__fY7y4Thu, 03 Oct 2024 10:00:00 GMT3279https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/awaken-renew-grief-coaching-with-emily-curtisfalseJoin Emily Curtis, as she shares her journey as a widow and how she transformed her challenges into hope and purpose through grief coaching. Emily shares her raw journey of loss, revealing the unique bond forged among those who have lost their partners. They explore the realities of widowhood, the challenges of discussing loss, and the community’s role in navigating grief. Discover how Emily’s grief coaching business, Awaken & Renew Grief Coaching, empowers others to find their way through loss, honor their loved ones, and embrace new beginnings. This episode is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of shared experiences in overcoming 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>240Supporting Children Through Grief With Deborah BrownjF5zN1pxcThu, 26 Sep 2024 10:00:00 GMT2375https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/supporting-children-through-grief-with-deborah-brownfalseAs adults, we hold the power to make a world of difference in the lives of grieving children. Deborah Brown, Director of Grief Information for Teachers and Services, shares her journey and invaluable insights into supporting young people through difficult times in this enlightening conversation. She discusses the importance of understanding children’s grief reactions, providing emotional support, and using practical tools like journals and workshops. Deborah’s passion for helping others shines through as she discusses her mission to bridge the gaps in current support systems and ensure that everyone has the resources they need to navigate grief effectively.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>239Coping With Grief After An Accident With Todd Lingel7In9mPn_tThu, 19 Sep 2024 10:00:00 GMT3167https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/coping-with-grief-after-an-accident-with-todd-lingel/falseLosing a loved one so suddenly after a vicious accident is truly heartbreaking. They do not simply leave your life, but they do so without warning. Todd Lingel faced this same situation when he lost his mother and sister in a road crash. In this episode, he shares how he started Kares Foundation to honor their memories by guiding teens and young adults in dealing with grief and loss. Todd breaks down his goals for further helping the youth, from providing college scholarships to hosting summer camps. He also talks about the bitter reality of getting mad at God after a loved one transitions, as well as how to face and calm down your upset heart and mind.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.



]]>238The Journey Of Healing: Moving Through Grief With Addie GreenKrHqNjR7PThu, 12 Sep 2024 10:00:00 GMT6413https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-journey-of-healing-moving-through-grief-with-addie-greenfalseMoving through grief is like navigating a winding path, filled with unexpected twists and turns, but ultimately leading to a sense of peace and healing. In this poignant episode, Addie Green unravels her remarkable journey of moving through grief. From the emotional struggle of losing loved ones to the serendipity of new beginnings, Addie’s tale is a testament to the power of love and the indomitable human spirit. Join us as Addie shares her path to healing and the inspiring moments that transformed her life, proving that even from the deepest despair, love can rise and lead us to unexpected joy.


Check out these links to Addie’s books:


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>237A Grieving Daughter's Journey From Pain To Purpose With Paula FosterrzEf2fQ5IThu, 05 Sep 2024 10:00:00 GMT3773https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-grieving-daughters-journey-from-pain-to-purpose-with-paula-foster/falseMany cliches have become cliches because they’re uncannily true, and one of those cliches is, “There is purpose in your pain.” It’s not some empty, abstract statement designed to console someone who’s grieving. When we truly understand what this means, that purpose shows up in concrete ways, often changing the lives of other people in the process. This is what Paula Foster’s journey has been. She lost her father at a young age, and that pivotal moment shaped the woman she would become in her adult years. Paula holds a lot of titles, but all those simply point to the fact that everywhere she goes, she touches lives in a transformative way. Join this episode as she shares her story and all the wonderful lessons that come with it.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>236Widow With A Purpose: From Victim To Victor With Shevetta WashingtonKa5f_9fWNThu, 29 Aug 2024 10:00:00 GMT4739https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/widow-with-a-purpose-from-victim-to-victor-with-shevetta-washington/falseWidowhood is a challenging journey, but it can also be empowering, not only to the widow herself, but to other widows around her. Widows thrive in community. They thrive in a place where they get to share their stories and hear the stories of others. This is what Shevetta Washington aims to achieve through her initiative, Widow with a Purpose. Shevetta had a harrowing widowhood experience herself, which she describes in her book, A Widow I Became: Due to the Cruelty of Cancer: But Victory in Jesus! She joins Tina in this episode to share her story and her message to everyone in the widowhood.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>235The Young Purposeful Widow: Navigating The Journey Of Being A Widow While Discovering Her New Life With Tomice ScottyVfwdnkwYThu, 22 Aug 2024 10:00:00 GMT4564https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-young-purposeful-widow-navigating-the-journey-of-being-a-widow-while-discovering-her-new-life-with-tomice-scottfalseToday’s episode delves into the love, heartache, and resilience of a phenomenal woman who defied the odds. Tomice Scott, a Mental Health Counselor, faces challenges like teen pregnancy, relationship instability, and societal pressures, yet she perseveres and achieves her goals of getting an education and becoming a successful mother. She leads us into the pages of her life as she navigates the journey of being a widow while discovering her new self as a young, purposeful widow. Tomice built a community for young widows through Purposeful Widow to provide the support system young widows needed as they traverse into the new phase of their lives. She also shares tips to navigate the complex emotions of dating after losing a spouse. Tomice’s journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit. Join us as she shares her experience and offers hope and inspiration to anyone facing 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>234A Mother's Sorrow And Determination With Shamel Mouzon5Zd7Oyj_VThu, 15 Aug 2024 10:00:00 GMT4870https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-mothers-sorrow-and-determination-with-shamel-mouzon/falseNo parent should ever bury their child. But unfortunately for Shamel Mouzon, she was not able to escape the tight grip of a mother’s sorrow. Nevertheless, she did not let grief pull her down. I talk with this amazing and determined woman who talks about dealing with the sadness of losing her twins. She opens up on her struggles with her marriage, career, and relationships after the transition of her children – as well as how she overcame every single one of them. Shamel also talks about rebuilding her life, having another daughter, and her inspiring Team WOKE on TikTok.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide."


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>233The Deadbook: Grief, Legacy, And A Good Plan With Tripp TilleryE6uIyik2tThu, 08 Aug 2024 10:00:00 GMT3795https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-deadbook-grief-legacy-and-a-good-plan-with-tripp-tilleryfalseImagine losing a loved one and finding solace in their extraordinary foresight. This episode dives into the poignant journey of our guest, Tripp Tillery, who shares how a TikTok project led him to honor his mother's legacy. Inspired by his mother Susan's meticulous The Deadbook, our guest reveals the emotional and logistical challenges she faced as an executor, the importance of keeping the family home, and how Susan's comprehensive guide provided peace of mind amidst grief. Join us as we explore the heartfelt impact of preparation, legacy, and the often unspoken complexities of loss and love.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

 

Grab the The Deadbook and use the discount code: TINA15


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>232A Second Chance At Beautiful Love: Navigating Grief And Dating With Marketta DavisDkvY3jmZUThu, 01 Aug 2024 10:00:00 GMT3596https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-second-chance-at-beautiful-love-navigating-grief-and-dating-with-marketta-davisfalseGrief and dating do not exist in opposite poles. There is no hard and fast rule on how long someone should wait to date after being widowed. Grief for a spouse never goes away, and if we treat grief and dating as mutually exclusive, we’re never going to have another chance at creating a wonderful romantic relationship with another human being. But we all deserve a second chance at beautiful love. As she continues sharing her story, Marketta Davis shows us how this is possible without ever once denying that her love and grief for her lost loved one is still with her.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>231Experiences Of A Black Widow With Marketta Davis Part 1bSUNKDojvThu, 25 Jul 2024 10:00:00 GMT4852https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/experiences-of-a-black-widow-with-marketta-davis-part-1falseMarketta Davis had nothing to her name when she agreed to marry Danny. All that mattered to her was to be with the man he truly loved. But while she was pregnant with their child, her husband transitioned and left her all alone. In this first part of our conversation, she looks back on her fondest memories with Danny and how she literally became a black widow. Marketta shares how the two of them got through their biggest problems with finances and fertility, making their bond stronger and more meaningful than ever before. She also opens up about her personal battle with bipolar disorder and her realizations about entering a mental institution.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.

]]>230Mind, Body, Spirit: The Holistic Approach To Life Coaching With Britany Patsfield78-ANpcL4Thu, 18 Jul 2024 10:00:00 GMT3008https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/mind-body-spirit-the-holistic-approach-to-life-coaching-with-britany-patsfieldfalseTraditional therapy isn’t for everyone. Explore holistic life coaching, where you’ll find a supportive guide to navigate grief, rebuild your life, and reach your full potential. In this enlightening episode, holistic life coach Britany Patsfield shares her profound insights into holistic life coaching and emphasizes the importance of addressing the entirety of an individual’s mind, body, emotions, social interactions, and spirituality. Britany talks about navigating grief, trauma, and the societal pressures surrounding healing, debunking myths, and providing guidance on finding the right therapist or coach. Be inspired and empowered to embark on a journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery.


The discount code is Tina2024: Buy 3 sessions, get 1 FREE.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>229A Father's Journey Of Love And Purpose After A Traumatic Loss With David RobertstfL2ak0jvThu, 11 Jul 2024 10:00:00 GMT4338https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-fathers-journey-of-love-and-purpose-after-a-traumatic-loss-with-david-roberts/falseDiscover the profound journey of Dave Roberts, MSW, LMSW, in this heart-wrenching episode as he tells the devastating loss of his daughter, Janine, to cancer at just 18. With a career dedicated to helping others through addiction and grief, Dave shares his deeply personal story, reflecting on Janine’s brief but impactful life and the lessons her struggle taught him. From his professional roles as an adjunct professor and podcast host to his poignant insights into the mosaic of emotions that define the human experience, Dave's narrative offers a blend of raw emotion and spiritual enlightenment. Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding peace amid unimaginable loss, understanding grief’s diverse expressions, and the enduring bond that transcends life and death. This episode is a tribute to resilience, empathy, and the power of a father’s love in the face of profound sorrow.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>228Life After Loss: A Transformative Grief Journey With Alethea FeltonvhpZO9RTCThu, 04 Jul 2024 10:00:00 GMT4722https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/life-after-loss-a-transformative-grief-journey-with-alethea-feltonfalseDiscover the unexpected way a friendship has led our guest on a transformative journey. In this deeply moving episode, Tina Fornwald sits down with Alethea Felton, a dynamic High Performance/Transformational Coach and host of The Power Transformation Podcast. Althea shares her poignant story of losing two of her closest friends. Through her reflections, Alethea explores the profound impact of this loss, detailing how it spurred her to seek therapy and ultimately transform her life. Join us as we delve into Alethea's inspiring journey from grief to growth, uncovering the lessons of resilience, intentional living, and the power of cherished friendships.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide"


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>227The Things That Keep Us Young: Shifting Your Mental Perspective To Enjoy Life While Living With Sheila Finkelstein65KkVPLD_Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:00:00 GMT4469https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-things-that-keep-us-young-shifting-your-mental-perspective-to-enjoy-life-while-living-with-sheila-finkelsteinfalseWhen you lose the love of your life, it’s easy to succumb to regret, to the what ifs and what could have beens. But our departed love would have loved us to carry on living to the fullest. How does one transcend grief and learn to enjoy life while living? Sheila Finkelstein helps us make this powerful mental shift so we can learn to deal with loss gracefully and with hope. Tune in for her incredible wisdom!

]]>226A Double Widower’s Journey Through Dating, Healing, And Parenting With Isaac Byrd Jr. Part 2L5HQiMjmkThu, 20 Jun 2024 10:00:00 GMT6568https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-double-widowers-journey-through-dating-healing-and-parenting-with-isaac-byrd-jr-part-2falseIn part two of our heartfelt conversation with Isaac Byrd Jr., a two-time widower navigating life at 42, we follow his journey of single parenting, dating, and connecting with a community online. Discover how Isaac turned to TikTok during the pandemic, not to go viral, but to find solace and companionship, hosting Taco Tuesday live sessions that created a lounge-like happy hour for his followers. He shares invaluable advice on embracing spontaneity on social media and the challenges of single parenting, emphasizing the importance of communication over discipline and the support from his extended family. Isaac also opens up about preparing his son for the realities of life as a Black child, the complexities of dating as a widower, and the powerful impact of keeping his late wife’s memory alive. Tune in for an inspiring and deeply personal look at resilience, community, and the nuanced art of parenting through grief.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide“


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>225Stories Of A Double Widower With Isaac Byrd Jr. Part 1lvXZVa6FsThu, 13 Jun 2024 10:00:00 GMT6019https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/stories-of-a-double-widower-with-isaac-byrd-jr-part-1falseIt is indeed not easy to deal with grief after losing someone dear to you. But what if you have to go through the same pain twice? Joining me in this conversation is Isaac Byrd Jr., who opens up about what it is like to be a young double widower. We explore the lessons and realizations from his two partners who have transitioned to the next life, as well as the important role of music and faith in his grieving journey. Isaac also shares his experiences of going back into the dating game, especially now that it is mostly done through online applications.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>224From Grief To Growth: How Financial Coaching Can Be Your Lifeline With Cheyenne SyversontYSnjS7ieThu, 06 Jun 2024 10:00:00 GMT3685https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/from-grief-to-growth-how-financial-coaching-can-be-your-lifeline-with-cheyenne-syverson/falseFeeling lost after a life change? Divorce, grief, or just tired of living paycheck to paycheck? This episode's your lifeline. Tina Fornwald talks with financial coach Cheyenne Syverson of Inspiring Solutions 4U about how to find your financial footing after a life-altering event. They explore the surprising power of financial coaching, especially for those dealing with grief. Forget rigid plans – Cheyenne's about gentle nudges, untangling emotional ties to money, and building habits for a secure future. Find solace in inspiring stories of others who found strength, from creating "don't buy" lists to rewriting their financial narratives. Learn how to avoid refinancing traps and shed limiting beliefs passed down through generations. Whether you're facing a mountain of debt or simply want to feel more in control, discover how financial coaching can be your anchor to financial well-being.

 

Unlock exclusive savings with this unique discount code for Widowhood Real Talk With Tina: IS4U-WRTWT. Enjoy a 10% discount using this code.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide"


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>223From Despair To Summit: Following The Trail To Healing And Transformation With Keith McNallyqBvR8IhnkThu, 30 May 2024 10:00:00 GMT4289https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/from-despair-to-summit-following-the-trail-to-healing-and-transformation-with-keith-mcnally/falseHave you ever felt completely lost after a major life event? Tune in to this powerful episode, where Tina Fornwald welcomes Dr. Keith McNally to share his profound journey of overcoming personal grief and health challenges. From surviving a heart attack to rebuilding his life after loss and unemployment, Dr. Keith offers heartfelt advice on coping with life's adversities. He opens up about his passion for walking and hiking, which played a crucial role in his healing process. The conversation also explores the importance of community, finding purpose, and staying grounded through practices like journaling and meditation. Whether you’re facing your own trials or looking for inspiration, this episode provides a safe space for exploring resilience and embracing life's 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>222A Mother’s Love: Navigating Grief After Losing An Angel With Jessica GarlandnwC3LVvpyThu, 23 May 2024 10:00:00 GMT5278https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-mothers-love-navigating-grief-after-losing-an-angel-with-jessica-garlandfalseJoin us for a deeply moving episode as we explore the profound journey of Jessica Garland, whose life was forever changed by unimaginable tragedy. From the joys of motherhood to the depths of grief, Jessica bravely shares her story of love, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity. Jessica opens up about the loss of her daughter, Kendra. From the surprising discovery of Kendra’s pregnancy to her vibrant interests in basketball, dancing, and singing, Jessica paints a vivid picture of her beloved daughter’s life. However, tragedy strikes when Kendra is senselessly murdered at the age of 17 while working at the airport VIP lounge. Jessica courageously shares the harrowing details of the event and the profound impact it had on her and her family. Through her raw and heartfelt storytelling, Jessica navigates the complexities of grief, finding solace in unexpected sources of support while emphasizing the importance of self-care and cherishing every moment with loved ones. Despite her profound loss, Jessica finds comfort in her daughters’ achievements and offers invaluable advice on parenting, relationships, and finding gratitude amidst 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

]]>221Navigating The Tough Part Of Grief Together With Tina Fornwald, Founder Of Widowhood Real Talk With TinaVHtDJ177eThu, 16 May 2024 10:00:00 GMT1327https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/navigating-the-tough-part-of-grief-together-with-tina-fornwald-founder-of-widowhood-real-talk-with-tina/falseNavigating the grief process is hard, and nobody knows just how tough it is better than the person who is going through it. But even the most challenging aspects of the whole healing journey are surmountable with the right mindset and tools. In this episode, Tina Fornwald takes special attention to speak to us about navigating the tough part of grief. Specifically, she shares tips on overcoming the anger, guilt, and isolation that many people experience upon their loved one’s transition. Tune in to hear more of Tina’s wisdom!



]]>220Honoring My Mom, The Black Panther: A Trailblazer’s Legacy With Kimberly AndersonJeUVYa_jjThu, 09 May 2024 10:00:00 GMT2786https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/honoring-my-mom-the-black-panther-a-trailblazers-legacy-with-kimberly-andersonfalseThis Mother's Day, let's celebrate the women who shape our lives with unwavering love, strength, and endless support. Join us for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation with Kimberly Anderson. She shares her remarkable story of honoring her mother, a trailblazer who defied societal expectations at 15 and built a strong, loving family. Through laughter and tears, Kim reflects on their unique bond, the challenges they faced, and the profound impact her mother had on her life, parenting style, and the values she cherishes today. Discover how Kim continues her mother's legacy and gain insights into coping with grief and celebrating the enduring power of love and family. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to mothers everywhere, a testament to resilience, and a reminder of the irreplaceable influence mothers have on our lives.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>219Traveling Through Grief: A Mother’s Loss Weeks Before Her Wedding With Jazmyn KentiyRYSHFEmThu, 02 May 2024 10:00:00 GMT3173https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/traveling-through-grief-a-mothers-loss-weeks-before-her-wedding-with-jazmyn-kent/falseThere’s no set timeline for healing; like a trip, there are unexpected turns, roadblocks, or challenges. And that path can be challenging when you lose your child at the hands of your relative. No matter how you lost your child, joining a group like Traveling Through Grief is your first step to finding comfort and building a support system. In this episode, Jazmyn Kent, founder of Traveling Through Grief, recalls the death of her son at the hands of her nephew weeks before her wedding. She also explains how her relationship with her sister remained after the incident. It is important to note that forgiveness for that tragic incident is the most significant gift for yourself to find peace in you. Please tune in to this episode and let Jazmyn steer the wheel as we traverse through grief.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>218Fred Colby On How A Widower Handles His Grieving ProcessVMEnYFD_AThu, 25 Apr 2024 10:00:00 GMT4212https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/fred-colby-on-how-a-widower-handles-his-grieving-process/falseThere are almost four million widowers in the United States alone. Unfortunately, there are very limited resources and services available that could help them with their grieving process. Fred Colby, a widower himself, is on a mission to make a real difference in this alarming matter. In this conversation, he shares how he raises awareness about the utmost need for widowers to access proper support systems, saving them from adopting unhealthy practices or starting an addiction. Fred also explains how widowers can reinvent themselves after losing their partners, the benefits of in-house care, and why they must never make huge decisions (or get into a new relationship) in the first year of the grieving journey.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.



Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>217Healing Through Grief: Insights From Soul Healer And Ascension Teacher, Isabelle ZimmermanRfD6HT5E0Thu, 18 Apr 2024 10:00:00 GMT2328https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/healing-through-grief-insights-from-soul-healer-and-ascension-teacher-isabelle-zimmerman/false“We will not ascend as a species without going through our grief.” In this insightful episode, Tina Fornwald speaks with Isabelle Zimmerman, a Soul Healer and Ascension Teacher on a mission to illuminate the transformative power of connecting with your Spirit Guides. Isabelle shares her expertise in HeartMath and meditation, emphasizing their benefits for grief and emotional healing. The conversation delves into Isabelle's personal journey, her connection to Spirit Guides, and the transformative power of meditation. Gain valuable insights into the science behind HeartMath, the role of emotions in cellular memory, and the importance of releasing stuck energy for overall well-being. Isabelle’s unique approach to healing and her dedication to helping others navigate grief make this conversation a compelling and uplifting exploration of spiritual growth and self-discovery.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World



Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>216Cosmic Parenting: Raising Children As A Widow With Amy BalchuneghLXU7YOgThu, 11 Apr 2024 10:00:00 GMT3462https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/cosmic-parenting-raising-children-as-a-widow-with-amy-balchune/falseWhen you lose a spouse that you had kids with, you’re not just losing a key part of your life. You’re also losing your biggest support in one of life’s biggest challenges – rearing your children to become the best people they are meant to be. How do you do that when you’re suddenly left on your own? Amy Balchune went through this experience a few years back, and her extraordinary grief and healing journey led her to conceptualize Cosmic Parenting, a movement that seeks to support widows who are trying their best to be good parents while navigating the grief journey. Join this conversation and learn how Amy is making an outsized impact on the lives of the women she’s helping!


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>215Charniah Wilson: The Woman Behind Grief Is Ghetto9kr2Bf_PjThu, 04 Apr 2024 10:00:00 GMT6410https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/charniah-wilson-the-woman-behind-grief-is-ghettofalseWhat happens if you utilize the vast reach of social media to spread the joy you discovered from your own sadness? This is exactly what Charniah Wilson is doing through her TikTok, Grief is Ghetto. In our inspiring conversation, she shares how losing her partner in an unexpected tragedy encouraged her to open up about her grieving journey to a wider online audience. She explains how her simple yet funny TikTok content helps other grieving people deal with their sadness and get through their biggest emotional roadblocks. Charniah also explores the immense power of social media, delving into its most valuable benefits and its giant disservice to humanity if gravely misused.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>214A Deep Legal Talk On Grief With Lawyer Michelle FarleyasnlIk7wNThu, 28 Mar 2024 10:00:00 GMT5006https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-deep-legal-talk-on-grief-with-lawyer-michelle-farleyfalseLosing a loved one is not just a roller coaster of emotions; it is also an experience full of legalities and paperwork. In this episode, I sit down with lawyer Michelle Farley to have a legal talk about grief, exploring how to get organized for the eventual passing of a partner, a parent, a relative, or even yourself. She explains the importance of preparing a last will, getting into trust, the benefits of life insurance, and making funeral plans with the most beloved people in your life. Michelle also discusses the complexities of having a grief brain, exploring why you should not make major financial decisions a year after the passing of a loved one.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>213From Pain To Purpose: Navigating Through The Grief Journey With Jason Clawson9EQRC5cDFThu, 21 Mar 2024 10:00:00 GMT4889https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/from-pain-to-purpose-navigating-through-the-grief-journey-with-jason-clawsonfalsePrepare to embark on a deeply moving journey through the intricate landscape of grief, where pain transforms into purpose. In this episode, we unravel the deeply moving narrative of Jason Clawson, a licensed therapist with a heart-wrenching personal love story. In this emotionally charged conversation, Jason courageously opens up about the loss of his child diagnosed with anencephaly, the challenges of navigating infertility, and the heartbreaking journey of grief with his wife, Valerie, who later battled stage four colon cancer. Delving into the complexities of grief, Jason emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for men to share their experiences and the transformative power of vulnerability. From the heartbreak of leaving the hospital without their baby to the strength found in community support, Jason’s story unfolds with profound insights into healthy coping skills, the impact of significant life changes, and the remarkable healing journey that extends to helping others through The Hope Kit. This episode is a poignant exploration of personal grief, professional expertise, and the resilience found in community support—a testament to the strength that emerges from facing life’s most profound challenges.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

]]>212Following The Signs Of Loves With Gwen WrightunyE2XzLvThu, 14 Mar 2024 10:00:00 GMT8578https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/following-the-signs-of-loves-with-gwen-wright/falseTrusting your own gut and intuition is never enough to keep a relationship strong and meaningful. You must also know how to read and follow the signs of loves. This is exactly what Gwen Wright did in her life, especially during her grieving journey following the death of his husband Doug. In this episode, she shares how she met her partner in a little town in Wisconsin, got married, got divorced, and got back together. Gwen returns to the exact moment her husband died, reminisces their most wonderful moments together, and how his death impacted her daughters. She also talks about how going into a grief seminar alleviated her challenging journey and her plans to establish a foundation supporting widows and single mothers.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

 

Tina Fornwald

https://www.facebook.com/WarriorNotWidow

]]>211Grief, Loss, And Hope: The Unseen Blessings In Our Hardest Battles With Tony LynchJGqW-Z2KPThu, 07 Mar 2024 11:00:00 GMT4092https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/grief-loss-and-hope-the-unseen-blessings-in-our-hardest-battles-with-tony-lynchfalseWithin the pain lies the power to transform. Today, Tony Lynch shares his journey to show that we all have inner strength and that our deepest wounds can lead to healing. Tony's life story shows how strong people can be, from a difficult childhood to becoming a father, facing loss, and dealing with personal struggles. As an introvert, he shares how he found solace in himself, but also discovered the importance for men to have a safe space to share their stories and feel their grief. This led him to create “Memories of Us,” a nonprofit organization that supports men going through grief. From touching stories to personal transformation, this episode will help you feel seen in your grief and show how you still have hope. Tune in now!

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>210Supporting Children Grieving The Death Of A Parent: Three Steps Of Being To Guide You In Being Present With Dr. Christine KiesingerBG1ryVS74Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT3458https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/supporting-children-grieving-the-death-of-a-parent-three-steps-of-being-to-guide-you-in-being-present-with-dr-christine-kiesingerfalseIt's not about having the perfect words, but the genuine willingness to share the silence and hold the space. In this episode, Dr. Christine Kiesinger discusses how to support grieving children. She shares stories of actual children who have gone through losses of a parent or loved one. The children don't want to be treated differently because of their grief. Dr. Christine shares how there are some ways to support them and make them feel understood without unintentionally isolating them. She also opens up about the delicate topic of dating and marrying a widow, how trauma affects the professional practice of coaching, and more. Tune in now and learn how to become present for a child in need.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

]]>29Living Life With Passion: Lessons Learned From Death Over Coffee With Joi BrooksavaMotWn-Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT5550https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/living-life-with-passion-lessons-learned-from-death-over-coffee-with-joi-brooksfalseSometimes, all you need is a good conversation over a cup of coffee. In this episode, Joi Brooks, the host of Email and Coffee, opens up about the profound journey she embarked upon following the loss of her husband, Harry, and the passing of her parents. Joi shares her insights on embracing life with renewed passion, drawing valuable lessons from the shadows of death, all while savoring the warmth of a comforting cup of coffee. Beyond her personal tragedy, she discovered an unexpected ally and, through her experiences, gained the wisdom to support others in navigating their own grief. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Joi Brooks, where the aroma of coffee accompanies reflections on life, loss, and the enduring spirit that arises from the darkest moments.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>28Diversity In Clinical Practice: Reducing Cultural Offenses And Repairing Relationships With Lambers FisherUjg1cvEIAThu, 15 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT5087https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/diversity-in-clinical-practice-reducing-cultural-offenses-and-repairing-relationships-with-lambers-fisherfalseHelping without reservation is a beautiful concept that speaks to the depths of human compassion. But that concept will only be possible for therapists if they help and serve diverse clients without making cultural offenses. In this episode, Tina Fornwald welcomes the licensed marriage and family therapist into the show to share his insights into navigating the complexities of working with diverse clients. Lambers Fisher dives into the pages of his book, Diversity In Clinical Practice: A Practical And Shame-Free Guide To Reducing Cultural Offenses And Repairing Relationships. As Tina flips through the page, Lambers reveals his goal of addressing microaggressions. Tune in to this episode, for it will reveal the depths of human compassion through helping your clients diversely.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

]]>27A Story Of A Mother’s Love With Mary ParkerPBodZvMJ8Thu, 08 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT2876https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-story-of-a-mothers-love-with-mary-parkerfalseNothing can beat a mother’s love and care. They nurture you ever since you were little and look after you even as an adult. That’s why when they pass away, they leave a huge gap in our hearts. Joining me in this conversation is Mary Parker, who opens up about her grieving journey after her mom Cynthia died. She talks about her fondest memories with her mother, whom she considers her most trusted guide and confidante in life. Mary also explains how therapy, community support, and bravely facing tough conversations about death helped her get through grief much easier.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>26Reclaiming Your Life After Losing A Loved One With Michelle CollinsoEUY7Qo2AThu, 01 Feb 2024 11:00:00 GMT4813https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/reclaiming-your-life-after-losing-a-loved-one-with-michelle-collins/falseReclaiming your life after losing a loved one is indeed a hard time to get through. What more if you lose someone dear to you in the most sudden way? Speaker and author Michelle Collins shares how mindfulness played a huge role in overcoming the suicide of her husband. She explains the right level of support and witnessing needed by grieving individuals to get around not only their grief but shame and regrets as well. I also provide valuable insights on remarrying while Michelle opens up about her life of as a stepmother.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide"


]]>25Shipwrecked: A Widow’s Journey To Healing, Parenting, And Dating Again With Jeanette KoncikowskikDVmirD5GThu, 25 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT3737https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/shipwrecked-a-widows-journey-to-healing-parenting-and-dating-again-with-jeanette-koncikowskifalseGuilt can sometimes show up in grief. For Jeanette Koncikowski, being a widow brought up many realizations about the challenges that are often overlooked as we grieve our partners. We tend to look back and feel guilty and ashamed, thinking we aren’t good enough. In this conversation, Jeanette joins Tina Fornwald to lay bare her experiences and realizations when she lost her husband. When did she start being comfortable in the process of making choices on her own? How did she begin untangling the layers of guilt and shame? What does the healing process look like for a widow? How does she handle parenting with grief? What is life after loss for Jeanette? Find out the answers to these questions and more as you follow this episode. Plus, hear about Jeanette’s book, Shipwrecked: A Memoir of Widowed Parenting and Life After Loss.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>24Losing Your Love Of Your Life By Accidental Overdose With Tawana Proctor-RobinsonXS9Qr0q8SThu, 18 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT3502https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/losing-your-love-of-your-life-by-accidental-overdose-with-tawana-proctor-robinsonfalseThe shadows of a tragic event shall cast the beauty of love that radiates between you and your late husband. You will only feel the rhythm of life’s music until you learn to overcome the loss. In this episode, Tawana Proctor-Robinson recounts her life with her husband, Victor, and how he struggled with fentanyl, which led to an accidental overdose. As a drug dealer turned into a drug addict, Victor was a product of his environment and became his own demise. Tawana shares her insights on Victor’s struggles and what she learned along the way. Let’s join Tawana as she flips the pages into her story of Victor’s addiction, death, and their love and life together. Tune in to this episode today and indulge yourself with her wisdom and insights.


Listen to the song Tawana and Victor created HERE. 

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

]]>23Grief Transformation: Actively Healing From Unresolved Grief With Ghulam FernandesgzX6zneeSThu, 11 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT3553https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/grief-transformation-actively-healing-from-unresolved-grief-with-ghulam-fernandesfalseOftentimes, people are stuck in grief and don't know how to get out of it. And that sucks because most of the time, the other parts of our lives are perfectly fine but we aren’t present enough to enjoy them. Healing from unresolved grief is an active process, not a passive one, as today’s guest explains. Ghulam Fernandes is a grief transformation coach who specializes in unresolved grief. Ghulam has had multiple bereavements, something that she draws upon a lot when working with her clients. Ghulam believes that you can and should take active steps to heal yourself from grief and live your life fuller. She shares some of the resources that will help you do just that. Tune in to learn more about her transformative work and how it can make all the difference in your grief and rebirth journey!


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>22Widowhood Real Talk Shares Plans For 2024xqoVdk9uUThu, 04 Jan 2024 11:00:00 GMT1486https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/widowhood-real-talk-shares-plans-for-2024/falseThis is the podcast’s first episode of the year, and I am here to share my plans for 2024. Join me as I look back on the amazing things that happened in 2023 and talk about the deeper support I want to provide to everyone. I also celebrate the memory of my husband who continues to serve as my inspiration in producing this podcast and guiding other people on dealing with their grief.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide. 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>21The Life And Death Of A Father From A Son's Perspective With Alexander Fornwald ihq5AKlxGThu, 28 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT3266https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-life-and-death-of-a-father-from-a-sons-perspective-with-alexander-fornwald/falseFor this year’s final episode, let’s hear from a son’s perspective of his father’s life and death. Alexander Fornwald recounts his memory with his father, Mark Fornwald, and his experience after he passed. Tina explains how helpful it is to have trusting relatives and friends to help you through the grief process, and Alexander shares his perspective about asking friends to be at the funeral. He describes how his father was a man of the community and a man’s man. Let’s join Tina and Alexander in this beautiful mother-and-son conversation.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>148Two Floors Above Grief: The Untold Story Of A Funeral Home Family With Kevin O'ConnorUDVFkAXv84Thu, 21 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT4361https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/two-floors-above-grief-the-untold-story-of-a-funeral-home-family-with-kevin-oconnorfalseLife’s precious moments emerge from the dance between joy and grief, proving that even two floors above, we’re never alone. Join us on a heartfelt journey through the pages of life, grief, and the enduring bonds that shape us. Our special guest, Kevin O’Connor, former educator and author of the book “Two Floors Above the Grief,” shares the tales of growing up above a funeral home, offering a unique perspective on death, life, and the wisdom passed down from one generation to the next. Kevin explores the complexity of grief not only from the perspective of grieving families but also from the eyes of the funeral home director’s family. Through the experiences and valuable lessons he shares, Kevin shows how grief journey is not linear; it’s an ever-evolving process. Tune in now and remember that through life and loss, we are never truly alone.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>147Why Widows Do Bounce Back With Your Favorite Widow Coach, Maya TylerRsNLKVfn8wThu, 14 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT3857https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/why-widows-do-bounce-back-with-your-favorite-widow-coach-maya-tylerfalseBeing a widow coach isn’t just a career for Maya Tyler. It’s deeply rooted in her own painful experience – an experience that she weaponized to help other widows navigate this tumultuous transition. Widowed at 27, Maya had her own share of what young widows typically experience, with all the judgment and prejudice attached to it. The fact that she is a woman of color only served to intensify it all. Join in as she shares on the podcast how she overcame the external and, more importantly, the internal obstacles to healing and how she uses those lessons she learned to help others through her life’s work, Widows Do Bounce Back. Tune in!


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>146Becoming A Death Doula: The Beautiful Journey Of Living With Death With Stephanie Dawsondp-5WeYEGdThu, 07 Dec 2023 11:00:00 GMT4459https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/becoming-a-death-doula-the-beautiful-journey-of-living-with-death-with-stephanie-dawsonfalseWhat does a death doula do? Today’s guest will enlighten us on the path she walks. Stephanie Dawson is a retired nurse turned death doula turned grief coach. Stephanie takes us into her journey from a career-ending injury death of a loved one to becoming a death doula. The tragic events may have been painful, but they did not close her doors and, instead, opened her mind to believe that death becomes our friend that we take with us. Let’s take a moment to listen to this beautiful journey of Stephanie Dawson today.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Social Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-dawson-955948183

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deathwithsteph


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>145The Life Of A Servant: A Hospice Chaplain’s Journey With Shenaz HalversonW1xbJ-NYWThu, 30 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT3072https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-life-of-a-servant-a-hospice-chaplains-journey-with-shenaz-halversonfalseIn our grief journey, we need someone to meet us where we are and to love us unconditionally. But as a person transitioning into the spirit realm, we also need that spiritual and emotional support throughout the end-of-life journey. In this episode, as a Chaplain, Shenaz Halverson brings light into what a Hospice Chaplain does and how her grief helped her serve people with unconditional love. She also shares how she became a Hospice Chaplain. As she guides individuals and provides comfort and solace, Shenaz still sees herself continuing what she does. Let’s join Shenaz on her amazing journey as a Hospice Chaplain by tuning in to this episode today.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>144The Knight Of Positivity: How To Be A Positive Light To Life With Daniel KnightH6JeO_T6GThu, 23 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT3434https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-knight-of-positivity-how-to-be-a-positive-light-to-life-with-daniel-knight/falseWhen life gets tough, it’s easy to fall back into the dark areas of the room. But how can we be a positive light when life happens? The driving force behind Unicorn Universe, Daniel Knight, narrates how his father impacted his life, and when he heard his father transition to the other side, it took him long to experience grief. He also shares the birth of the Unicorn Universe and what it does in the community. Daniel also takes us into how to be a positive light because life isn’t always about unicorns and rainbows. If you want to be inspired to rise above the darkness and be a positive light, this episode is for you. So, why don’t you grab the reins and let’s gallop into the beautiful journey of Daniel today? 

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

 

 

Email: daniel@unicornuniverse.io

Website: http://UnicornUniverse.io

Social Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/10xunicorn/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/10xUnicorn

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/10x_unicorn/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@10xUnicorn

 

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>143Understanding Financial Management With Jesus GonzalespwfZ7DjBfKThu, 16 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT2265https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/understanding-financial-management-with-jesus-gonzales/falseOne of the hardest things to deal with after the passing of a loved one is handling money matters that come with such a loss. Those who are left behind must know the right financial management approaches to avoid putting themselves in even bigger hardships. Exploring everything you need to know about this matter with Tina Fornwald is Financial Coach Jesus Gonzales of PFS Investments. He discusses the importance of having life insurance and an emergency fund, especially for those with family members who are not generating income yet. Jesus also presents some tips on investing your money, navigating the stock market, and dealing with interest rates. 

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide. 



Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>142Transforming The Narrative Of Grief Into A Celebration Of Life With Sarah HineshxFosgtQ87Thu, 09 Nov 2023 11:00:00 GMT3636https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/transforming-the-narrative-of-grief-into-a-celebration-of-life-with-sarah-hinesfalseMost of the time, people could not find the connection between beauty and death. The pain we feel tends to blind us from that connection. But in this episode, Sarah Hines, the Founder of Grief Advocacy, transforms the narrative of grief because it will never go away, but we can learn to live and move with it. She also shares her experience in deathcare and grief care, discovering the humbling experience of being a part of somebody’s life knowing that, at some point, we have to say goodbye. Join Sarah in this conversation, where she weaves the tapestry of grief with a silver thread that shows the beautiful celebration of life. Find the glimmering light from the darkness of loss.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide



Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>141Managing Grief Through Art: The Canvas Of Life, Death, And Love With Noemi BeresZUxhhpatXrThu, 02 Nov 2023 10:00:00 GMT3244https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/managing-grief-through-art-the-canvas-of-life-death-and-love-with-noemi-beres/falseThe grief journey is full of streaks of dark and bright colors blended with the wonders of pain, love, and hope. The journey of loss doesn’t have to be dark; it can be a colorful spectrum when we are managing grief through art. In this conversation, Noemi Beres, the co-founder of Podcast Connections, paints us the picture of how her painful journey of loss changed through art. When grief drowns us, other aspects of our lives, like health, slowly deteriorate, so Noemi provides us with some artistic therapeutic mediums for healing. In that place of grief, she shows us hope that we can live life again. If you want to learn more about how art can help your healing process, then this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Walk with Noemi in her journey and see how she casts the colors on the canvas of life, death, and love.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>40Honoring Our Furry Friends: A Guide To Coping With Pet Loss With Maribeth Decker, MS, MGAFqyM_HUWEThu, 26 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT2790https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/honoring-our-furry-friends-a-guide-to-coping-with-pet-loss-with-maribeth-decker-ms-mga/falseLove transcends the boundaries of time and death, reminding us that our pets' spirits continue to shine brightly, guiding us with unwavering devotion. In this episode, Maribeth Decker, MS, MGA, the author of Peace in Passing: Comfort for Loving Humans During Animal Transitions, discusses the profound subject of pet loss and its impact on our lives. Discover the myths surrounding animal transitions, including the misconception that death ends the relationship. Maribeth's experiences shed light on the idea that our pets' personalities and love continue even after they've crossed the rainbow bridge. She explores the concept of saying goodbye to your beloved pet, navigating pet loss, and choosing your next companion. Maribeth offers an intimate and soul-nourishing exploration of the profound bonds we share with our animal companions and how we can find light and healing even in the shadow of loss. Join us on this transformative journey of love, loss, and enduring connection in the world of pet companionship.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>139Faith Tested, Faith Restored: The Remarkable Story Of A Widower Through Grief With James PriceGg0p8S9bFRThu, 19 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT6237https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/faith-tested-faith-restored-the-remarkable-story-of-a-widower-through-grief-with-james-pricefalseThrough grief’s darkest night, faith becomes the dawn that guides us to a new day. In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with James Price, a remarkable widower who opens his heart to share the profound story of his loss, healing, and newfound purpose. Life can be heartbreakingly unpredictable, and James knows this all too well. As he candidly recounts the devastating blow of losing his beloved wife, he takes us through the turbulent waves of grief and the weight of loneliness that followed. But this conversation isn’t just about despair; it’s about resilience, faith, and the extraordinary strength that emerges from adversity. James shares how God’s guiding hand helped him navigate the darkest hours and find hope amid despair. His faith in God’s keeping power became a beacon of light during his darkest days. Tune in to find hope in his words, discover the importance of faith, and learn how sharing your experiences can light the path for others seeking solace.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>138The Journey To Living As A Healthy And Happy Widow With Sammie Hawkins5Rs_f3xm0GThu, 12 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT4350https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-journey-to-living-as-a-healthy-and-happy-widow-with-sammie-hawkinsfalseLosing a life partner can be a very difficult and lonely experience. You lose every bit of hope because a future without them is unimaginable. But life moves forward, and with it, we learn how to cope. More than that, this episode’s guest is letting others in on her own experience so they can find inspiration to start living life again, healthy and happy. Sammie Hawkins joins Tina Fornwald to take us on her journey on how she seeks the path to becoming a healthy and happy widow. She explains the impact of the life-changing event that happened to her life, losing her spouse, and how she managed to face it. Sammie’s experience led her to share hope with people traversing the path of grief and loss. Take this moment with Sammie to find the light in the dark we are dealing with because the future is brighter when we learn to move forward.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>137Choosing To Live After The Death Of Two Husbands With Theresa McFaddenxizoO8gkrzThu, 05 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT5659https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/choosing-to-live-after-the-death-of-two-husbands-with-theresa-mcfaddenfalseLosing the love of your life is indeed a heartbreaking experience, but what if you have to get through it all over again? Tina Fornwald sits down with Theresa McFadden who talks about the death of her two husbands. She looks back on how she married her first husband right out of high school, and how she openly married her second husband despite his illness. Theresa opens up about her bad experience with therapy and why widows should never stop living just because their significant others left this world. She also discusses how to avoid seven years of financial burden when your partner passes away and how she chose to let go of her husbands’ possessions to better manage her grief.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>136Kicking Cancer In The Teeth Twice: A Story Of Hope With Sarah E. McDonaldswuEeMrRFWThu, 28 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT4237https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/kicking-cancer-in-the-teeth-twice-a-story-of-hope-with-sarah-e-mcdonald/falseA cancer diagnosis is probably one of the most debilitating events that can happen in a person’s life. How do you pick yourself up after? Where do you find strength when it seems like the world is falling down on you? Sharing a story of hope, Sarah E. McDonald is an inspiration who not only kicked one but two cancer diagnoses in the teeth. In this episode, she joins Tina Fornwald to talk about her journey through cancer, overcoming twice the odds at the same time. With her book, The Cancer Channel, Sarah relays the many realizations she had across the events surrounding her year of cancer treatments. Sarah also touches on her father’s battle with prostate cancer, how she learned a hard lesson when a loved one is having a health issue, and going through the grieving process. Across all the pain and challenges, Sarah lets us in on her experiences to highlight the power of our stories and how we can turn them into beacons of hope and strength for others. Let this conversation inspire you to advocate for yourself and show up for others.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>135A Polyamorous Widow’s Journey Of Grief And Healing With Elizzabeth Cannon5caQTkbMENThu, 21 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT5674https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-polyamorous-widows-journey-of-grief-and-healing-with-elizzabeth-cannonfalseIt’s easier for us to wrap our brains around anything if it’s put within the context of the mainstream. As far a widowhood goes, we almost by default put it in the context of conventional monogamous relationships. We don’t hear a lot about how the experience of loss works for someone who is in a polyamorous relationship. That is the perspective we’re going to hear from Elizzabeth Cannon, a polyamorous widow who makes the rounds on TikTok, talking about all things in the intersection between polyamory and widowhood. Liz shares her grief and healing journey after losing her husband, Josh, to liver disease. She shares how she was able to carry on with life and choose joy despite the pain of losing her soulmate. Tune in to hear her amazing story!

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>134Dating A Widower: Reclaiming Love After Loss With Abel Keogh_cX3cPW12Thu, 14 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT3540https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/dating-a-widower-reclaiming-love-after-loss-with-abel-keogh/falseLosing your spouse can be devastating, but is it okay to date again? When is dating too soon? Is there a timeline we should follow? Join us in this episode as Abel Keogh, the author of Dating a Widower, shares his personal journey as a remarried widower, shedding light on the motivations and emotions behind widowers' decisions to date again after losing their partners. Gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics of relationships with widows and widowers, and explore the challenges of transitioning into remarriage. Tune in for an illuminating conversation on the widower's perspective on remarriage with Abel Keogh.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>133My Twelfth Rose: A Story Of Love, Bipolar And Suicide With Pastor James Ford Jr. - Part 376n6m2yAWSun, 10 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT1360https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/my-twelfth-rose-a-story-of-love-bipolar-and-suicide-with-pastor-james-ford-jr-part-3falseLeave a well in the valley. Pastor James Ford Jr. believes it is his mission to help others who have lost someone they love through his own experience of losing his wife to suicide. In this final episode of a three-part conversation, he talks to Tina Fornwald about the importance of talking about the pink elephant in the room: mental illness. Through his story, he has helped lighten the load of others. Join him as he shares his grief journey, the role of faith in the process, and where he is finding joy now.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


How To Contact Pastor James Ford, Jr.: 

Pastor Ford: https://www.facebook.com/pastorjamesfordjr/ 

Christ Bible Church of Chicago: https://www.christbiblechurchofchicago.org/pastor-ford-s-bio#:~:text=Pastor%20James%20Ford%20Jr.%20has,at%20Trinity%20Evangelical%20Divinity%20School 

Pastor James Ford Jr. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PastorJamesFord 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>1My Twelfth Rose: A Story Of Love, Bipolar And Suicide With Pastor James Ford Jr. – Part 2gYg86z1PZSat, 09 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT1405https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/my-twelfth-rose-a-story-of-love-bipolar-and-suicide-with-pastor-james-ford-jr-part-2falseLosing a loved one from suicide is a profoundly painful and complex experience that leaves those who are left behind grappling for answers. Pastor James Ford Jr. lost his wife to suicide after a long battle with bipolar. In this second part of a three-part conversation, he talks to Tina Fornwald about the experience of loving someone who is fighting unknown battles within themselves. Tune in and listen as Pastor James shares those difficult moments of persevering in love through it all with faith.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


How To Contact Pastor James Ford, Jr.: 

Pastor Ford: https://www.facebook.com/pastorjamesfordjr

Christ Bible Church of Chicago: https://www.christbiblechurchofchicago.org/pastor-ford-s-bio#:~:text=Pastor%20James%20Ford%20Jr.%20has,at%20Trinity%20Evangelical%20Divinity%20School 

Pastor James Ford Jr. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PastorJamesFord 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>1My Twelfth Rose: A Story Of Love, Bipolar And Suicide With Pastor James Ford Jr. – Part 1mN59r4mCrFri, 08 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT1400https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/my-twelfth-rose-a-story-of-love-bipolar-and-suicide-with-pastor-james-ford-jr-part-1falsePsalm 86 says, “When walking through the Valley of Baca, leave a well in the valley.” We have all gone through those tough, dark moments in our lives. In finding a way to make it through, we have the power to share our stories to help others do the same. Pastor James Ford Jr. from Christ Bible Church has gone through the unimaginable loss of a loved one from suicide. In this first episode of a three-part conversation with Tina Fornwald, he tells us the beautiful love story between him and his wife—from the moment they met to overcoming divorce and finding Jesus Christ in their marriage. Pastor James then shares the transformative moment that took him from Pittsburgh to Chicago, from a drug dealer to a pastor.


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


How To Contact Pastor James Ford, Jr.: 

Pastor Ford: https://www.facebook.com/pastorjamesfordjr/ 

Christ Bible Church of Chicago: https://www.christbiblechurchofchicago.org/pastor-ford-s-bio#:~:text=Pastor%20James%20Ford%20Jr.%20has,at%20Trinity%20Evangelical%20Divinity%20School 

Pastor James Ford Jr. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PastorJamesFord 

 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

]]>1Beyond Loss: Transforming Grief And Embracing A Life Of Joy, Love, And New Beginnings With Brandy Bell-Trapp4uaJzwDFRThu, 07 Sep 2023 10:00:00 GMT5234https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/beyond-loss-transforming-grief-and-embracing-a-life-of-joy-love-and-new-beginnings-with-brandy-bell-trapp/falseFrom grief to growth, widowhood taught our guest that even in the darkest moments, love's light finds its way. In this powerful episode, Brandy Bell-Trapp opens up about the unexpected loss of her beloved husband during the COVID-19 pandemic and the profound grief transformation it had on her life. She shares how she found solace through social media, particularly TikTok, and the unexpected community she built with fellow widows. Through laughter and tears, she shares the support, positivity, and understanding that this community brought into her life. Brandy also explores the complexities of dating after widowhood. She delves into the concept of "Widow Fire" – the overwhelming physical and emotional longing for companionship, revealing the challenges and newfound perspectives on love and connection. Tune in to discover how Brandy's outlook on life shifted over time, allowing her to honor her husband's memory while embracing new experiences and possibilities. Join us in finding strength, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose through the most challenging of times.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

 

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>132Grief, Therapy, And Transformation: Learning Effective Tools For Managing Grief With Brad TaylorLeCN7nwkiThu, 31 Aug 2023 10:00:00 GMT2936https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/grief-therapy-and-transformation-learning-effective-tools-for-managing-grief-with-brad-taylor/falseThrough therapy and self-care, we can transform the pain of grief into the power to heal, rediscover joy, and embrace life again. In this compelling episode, Brad Taylor discusses the effective tools for managing grief. Drawing from his extensive experience in therapy, he sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals dealing with profound sadness and grief. In this compassionate exchange, Brad and host Tina debunk common misconceptions surrounding mental health and explore the complexities of navigating the grieving process. Grief is a unique journey for each person. Tune in as Tina and Brad shed light on the journey through grief and offers guidance and hope to those who may be experiencing loss. Take a step towards healing and discover the transformative power of therapy, self-care, and embracing life again.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>131Embracing New Beginnings After Loss: On Dating And Marrying A Widow With Fred Jackson And Lionel GrimesRtXCzt49JThu, 24 Aug 2023 10:00:00 GMT4521https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/embracing-new-beginnings-after-loss-on-dating-and-marrying-a-widow-with-fred-jackson-and-lionel-grimes/falseDating can be a beautiful beginning from a past relationship. But how do you move forward when you are dating a widow? How do you navigate through their past and help them start anew? In this episode, we dive into the poignant world of dating widows with two guests, Fred Jackson and Lionel Grimes. They open up about their journeys of love and companionship with widows, navigating through its joys and complexities. Fred and Lionel share the beautiful stories of how they met their future wives, the deep connection that blossomed, and the unique challenges of dating individuals who have lost their spouses. They talk about emotional triggers and memories tied to the past and how they approached these moments with unwavering support and empathy. With candid advice for potential partners, Fred and Lionel dive into fostering understanding, patience, and authenticity in relationships. As the conversation draws to a close, Lionel and Fred reflect on their experiences, offering inspiration to those embarking on a similar path and underscoring the remarkable potential for love and meaningful connection when dating widows. We have all loved and lost, and we can also be that new love that can spring in the face of someone’s darkness. Tune in to discover the power of acceptance, communication, and support in the realm of dating after loss.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>130Beyond Widowhood: Embracing Life's Second Chances With Heather Hunt And Tina Fornwaldz5VL6CFkdThu, 17 Aug 2023 10:00:00 GMT2998https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/beyond-widowhood-embracing-lifes-second-chances-with-heather-hunt-and-tina-fornwald/falseThrough the depths of loss, the journey of two widows unveils the resilience of the human heart – embracing new love while treasuring cherished memories. Life's surprises bring solace, and in companionship, we find the courage to keep showing up, keep loving, and keep living. In today’s episode, we're diving into a topic that's both tender and transformative – dating and marriage after the loss of a spouse. The widows Heather Hunt and Tina Fornwald sit down and share their extraordinary experiences with us. Heather tells her story of how she got engaged after the loss of her beloved Bryan. She takes us on a poignant exploration of what it means to embrace new love while still cherishing the memories of a dearly departed partner. Tina also shares her unique path to walk and how she navigates the dating world as a widow. These strong widows’ stories remind us that life has a funny way of surprising us, often when we least expect it. Brace yourselves for a tale of love, loss, and unexpected twists! 

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 

 

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: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide   


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>129The Resilient Grief Journey: Embracing New Beginnings As A Widow With Heather Heying Hunt gdCYbda-nThu, 10 Aug 2023 10:00:00 GMT2734https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-resilient-grief-journey-embracing-new-beginnings-as-a-widow-with-heather-heying-hunt/falseIn the depths of grief, resilience emerges as a guiding light, showing us the extraordinary strength we possess to navigate the darkest of times and transform our pain into a catalyst for healing. Join us on this episode as we dive into the courageous and resilient grief journey of Heather Heying Hunt. She is a young widow who shares her raw and authentic experiences of navigating loss, rebuilding her life, and finding hope amidst the darkest moments. In this heart-rending conversation, Heather takes us back to the days leading up to her husband Brian's passing and the emotional rollercoaster she faced as a caregiver and a new mother. She recounts the difficult decisions she had to make, from moving Brian to hospice care to saying a final goodbye to her beloved dog in the hospital room. Heather opens up about the profound impact of losing her husband on her identity and self-esteem. She reveals the overwhelming sense of loneliness and confusion that engulfed her as she grappled with questions about her purpose and the trajectory of her life. But through therapy, support groups, and connecting with other widows, Heather discovered newfound strength within herself and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Her words serve as a beacon of hope for anyone facing loss, reminding us that while grief may change us, it doesn't have to define us. Join us in discovering how to be resilient in times of grief.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>128Rev. Dr. Moses Asamoah, Jr. On The Power Of Faith Over Griefe9WM0fWr1Thu, 03 Aug 2023 10:00:00 GMT2364https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/rev-dr-moses-asamoah-jr-on-the-power-of-faith-over-grief/falseGrief pushes us to hit our lowest points. We tend to keep to ourselves, refuse to open to other people, and ultimately, get angry at God. However, those in the middle of their grief fail to see that in their most sorrowful moments, God does not abandon them. He guides them back to their feet.

 

In this episode, I speak with Rev. Dr. Moses Asamoah, Jr. of the Living Destiny Church. He shares his experiences treating people not only from the illness of the body but also the scars in their hearts. Rev. Dr. Moses talks about the powerful role of keeping the faith and letting God work in our lives to overcome grief. He also explains why getting professional counseling or undergoing therapy is highly advisable for grieving individuals – and why it is actually biblical.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide. 



Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>127Grief Counseling: Overcoming Barriers To Seeking Help With Reginald W. Lockhart, Resident in Counseloling qlDN-raTzThu, 27 Jul 2023 10:00:00 GMT4317https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/grief-counseling-overcoming-barriers-to-seeking-help-with-reginald-w-lockhart-resident-in-counselolingfalseIn a world where silence breeds suffering, let us remember that seeking help is an act of courage. We must transcend cultural taboos and empower ourselves to embrace vulnerability on our journey to mental wellness. Today, we have the privilege of hosting a remarkable guest, Resident in Counseloling Reginald W. Lockhart, affectionately known as Reggie, who shares the value of grief counseling. In this candid conversation, Reggie fearlessly shares his personal experiences, inviting us into his world with authenticity and vulnerability. As the episode unfolds, Tina engages Reggie in a deep exploration of the taboos surrounding therapy, particularly within the African-American community. Counselor Reggie discusses the significance of recognizing that we all fall under the same umbrella of needing support, irrespective of cultural backgrounds or personal characteristics. He emphasizes that grief knows no boundaries and that seeking assistance in our journey of healing is not a sign of weakness but a display of strength. Counselor Reggie also highlights the importance of being present and attentive to the needs of loved ones who may be experiencing thoughts of suicide. Tune in now and take the first step to seek help. 

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>126The Long Grief Journey: Finding Support And Healing After Loss With Dr. Pamela D. BlairTP_ACgezwOThu, 20 Jul 2023 10:00:00 GMT3564https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-long-grief-journey-finding-support-and-healing-after-loss-with-dr-pamela-d-blairfalseGrief does not follow a timeline and can last throughout a person’s entire life. When grief becomes unresolved in the long term, it can later affect your mental health. In this episode, Dr. Pamela D. Blair, the Author of The Long Grief Journey, talks about her own long grief journey and how she found healing from it. The key: a support group. After losing her ex-husband, she shares how she found the much-needed support from her sister who had gone through a similar loss. Learn more about Dr. Blair’s journey of healing after loss. Plus, hear the story of how she wrote her first book, I Wasn’t Ready to Say Goodbye.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>125The Miss-Wife Crisis: A Widower's Tale Of Love, Loss, And Resilience With Martin OwensXrTR2PsgntThu, 13 Jul 2023 10:00:00 GMT5926https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-miss-wife-crisis-a-widowers-tale-of-love-loss-and-resilience-with-martin-owensfalseIn the realm of widowhood, men silently navigate the labyrinth of grief, their strength often veiled by societal expectations. Empower their stories of loss and resilience to reveal healing transcends gender and anyone can rise from the ashes. In today’s riveting conversation, we have a special guest joining us, Mr. Martin Owens. We stumbled upon Martin’s poignant story on TikTok and knew immediately that his journey deserved to be shared.


It’s essential to create a space where men can openly share their experiences and emotions to feel validated, supported, and empowered, especially in a society where their struggles often remain invisible and ignored. As the episode unfolds, Martin embarks on a profound exploration of his journey alongside his late wife, Tanya. Martin opens up about the intricacies of his grief and shares how his widowhood journey went. This heartfelt conversation proves to be the longest and most profound one yet in the history of the Widowhood Real Talk Podcast. By allowing a male perspective on grief to grace the airwaves, Martin brings a unique dimension to the discussion. His journey sheds light on the often untold stories of widowers. It is an episode that will leave you with a newfound understanding of the complexities of grief and the resilience of the human spirit. Don’t miss it.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

 

Email: MTACincorp@gmail.com

Facebook: MTAC – More Than A Conqueror Inc.

Store: MTAC – More Than A Conqueror By Illya Scott

 

“Homesick” (My final video from a home going celebration)

https://youtu.be/KKEJbBfhzwo

 

“Stay” (changing the dream boutique closet I built for her into a memory and prayer area)

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRvp3MMa/

 

YouTube In Loving Memory Playlist

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfZxIrY416TogURH5CEa_UjTIHpFa1Z04

 

TikTok Page

https://www.tiktok.com/@shecalledmemar?_t=8b1aHdRGUH5&_r=1

 

MTAC – More Than A Conqueror Inc

Extreme Makeover For Breast Cancer Conqueror, Jessie

https://youtu.be/k7N2EN-Fai8


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>124From Mistakes To Miracles: A Transformative Journey Of A Jewish Birth Mother With Lori Prashker-Thomasf5RMYoITAFThu, 06 Jul 2023 10:00:00 GMT3163https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/from-mistakes-to-miracles-a-transformative-journey-of-a-jewish-birth-mother-with-lori-prashker-thomas/falseLori Prashker-Thomas, the author of From Mistakes to Miracles, shares her story of redemption, hope, and healing. Her story is deeply personal and explores her experiences as a pregnant and alone woman who considered abortion but ultimately chose a different path as a Jewish birth mother. Lori's journey, as outlined in the memoir, showcases her inner struggles and the difficult decisions she faced during that challenging period. While contemplating abortion, she found the strength to make a different choice, which set the stage for her transformative journey. Lori's story likewise emphasizes her resilience, courage, and personal growth as she works to rebuild her life and heal from her past mistakes. It also sheds light on the support and resources she discovered within her Jewish faith community, which played a crucial role in her journey of redemption, hope, and healing. Tune in to this inspiring episode and find your path to redemption, hope, and healing.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 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.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>123Leading With Heart: How Leaders Can Support Grieving Employees With Dr. William RameyHSnDkDHAGCThu, 29 Jun 2023 10:00:00 GMT3553https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/leading-with-heart-how-leaders-can-support-grieving-employees-with-dr-william-rameyfalseTrue leadership is not measured solely by accomplishments, but by the compassion and support we extend to our grieving employees during their darkest hours. In this powerful episode, we are joined by the dynamic and experienced Dr. William Ramey. Grief is a universal experience that knows no boundaries, infiltrating every aspect of our lives. Recognizing its profound impact in the workplace, Dr. Will discusses how leaders can effectively support grieving employees. He explains how as people navigate the challenges of grief, it becomes evident that it is not a solitary journey. Dr. Will shares how supervisors and leaders can gain a newfound understanding of sensitively navigating this difficult terrain alongside their team members. Tune in now and learn how to lead with your heart in supporting grieving employees.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>122Giving Yourself Permission To Find The Beauty In Grieving With Isobelle MorrisonpNT9lb98AvThu, 22 Jun 2023 10:00:00 GMT4631https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/giving-yourself-permission-to-find-the-beauty-in-grieving-with-isobelle-morrisonfalseWe deal with grief differently, and many do not allow themselves to live. Most people choose to run away from reality. We don't have to live like that. In this episode, a widow, Isobelle Morrison, shares her inspiring tale that demonstrates how the beauty in grieving shows up if you are giving yourself permission to see it. It was her husband who taught her to deal with grief. Isobelle's relationship with her husband may not be smooth and easy, but she sees beauty in their relationship because of their love. Tune in to this inspirational episode and see beauty in the new normal you face today.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach. 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.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>21Winning Financial Solutions: Critical Financial Advice And Guidance For Widows And Widowers With Kelly B HunterrEkeQ6MwhuThu, 15 Jun 2023 10:00:00 GMT3173https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/winning-financial-solutions-critical-financial-advice-and-guidance-for-widows-and-widowers-with-kelly-b-hunterfalseWhen you lose your spouse, you start again from scratch. How can we get back up again financially after the loss? In this episode, Kelly B. Hunter of Winning Financial Solutions shares some critical financial advice and guidance for widows and widowers. We need to get our bearings after losing our partner. As homeowners, we can get bearings through Mortgage Protection Insurance because there are options for paying our mortgage off. She clarifies that the widow’s benefits on their late husband’s social security get nullified if they remarried before 60 years old. Find more insights in this episode as Kelly Hunter financially guides you through your loss.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country.

 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>20Forever My Starlight! Forever My Wife! Forever My Love With Addison Drake, A Young Widower UWBp4owZhqThu, 08 Jun 2023 10:00:00 GMT6292https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/forever-my-starlight-forever-my-wife-forever-my-love-with-addison-drake-a-young-widowerfalseHow would you face a tragic tale? A story where Snow White finally sleeps and never wakes up. This is a tale where God plucks a beautiful flower and turns her into a star. Addison Drake, a young widower, recounts a heart-wrenching story from the day they meet until God snuffed out his wife’s breath and turned her into his starlight. TikTok became his outlet after the loss because he found none. While most widowers still have their kids or grandkids after losing their spouse, he finds no comfort when his world. Tune in to this heartbreaking episode and see how much courage Addison Drake has to swallow the apple of life.  

 

How to connect with Addison:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drakers66

TikTok: @beyondstarlight2021

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>119You Make Your Path By Walking: Restore Your Shattered Life After Losing Your Spouse From Suicide With Suzanne Anderson_S35dyHFToThu, 01 Jun 2023 10:00:00 GMT3808https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/you-make-your-path-by-walking-restore-your-shattered-life-after-losing-your-spouse-from-suicide-with-suzanne-andersonfalseThe brutal terrain of trauma and loss from suicide can be the challenging path to take. In this episode, Suzanne Anderson, the Author of You Make Your Path by Walking, walks us through her journey to restoring her life from trauma and loss because of suicide. She also explores the different capacities of resilience and how to embody them. She draws from her experience of losing her husband to suicide to guide us through making our path through these challenging times of loss. Tune in to this episode to learn more about some tools to set us through this journey.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>118Being Intentional Through The Grief Journey With Teressa Green-ClarksJnHOhCg6cThu, 25 May 2023 10:00:00 GMT2573https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/being-intentional-through-the-grief-journey-with-teressa-green-clarkfalseIt can be challenging to be honest about our grief, sometimes. But once you let go of the fear that holds you back from really confronting what grief looks like, it can make the journey much more bearable. Teressa Green-Clark is someone who is not afraid of being honest about her grief. And instead of getting stuck there, she is surviving it day by day. In this episode, she joins Tina Fornwald to talk about her grief journey and why being intentional has helped her along the way. Teressa lost her husband, her sweet face, in 2020. Since then, she has been putting one foot in front of the other, being intentional about confronting her grief. She shares how she is coping with the help of her husband’s words and the Bible. Teressa also talks about letting her grief out through therapy and writing, imparting her own experience to help others in the same journey.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>117An Introduction To Heartfulness: How This Heart-Based Practice Can Help You Deal With Grief And Loss With Atul PatelzrN-6EorZ1Thu, 18 May 2023 10:00:00 GMT2890https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/an-introduction-to-heartfulness-how-this-heart-based-practice-can-help-you-deal-with-grief-and-loss-with-atul-patelfalseWhen you lose a loved one, being able to live for them and for yourself is the best gift you can give to the departed. Mr. Atul Patel, a Heartfulness trainer, joins us on the show today to show us how we can use the practice of Heartfulness learn the landscape of our inner body and use it as a way of honoring our departed loved ones. Mr. Patel gives us an introduction to Heartfulness and shows us the powerful ways in which it can transform our lives. Tune in and learn how to balance your inner self and learn to have peace and calmness as you go through this journey of widowhood.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>116Life After A Great Loss: How A Widower Built A Life For Himself With Carey Christian8aRTtBEfV2Thu, 11 May 2023 10:00:00 GMT5239https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/life-after-a-great-loss-how-a-widower-built-a-life-for-himself-with-carey-christianfalseWhen you meet the right person, you begin to look forward to a lifetime with them. Unfortunately, life has its way of reminding us of our impermanence by taking the person we love the most. No one can prepare you for that loss. Here to open up about his life after the passing of his wife is Carey Christian. In this candid conversation with Tina Fornwald, he tells us about his life, his beautiful wife Michelle, and her death. From their great moments (meeting and loving each other and finding their love for traveling) to their heartbreaks (receiving Michelle’s diagnosis and later on, taking her last breath), Carey bares it all. He then tells us about where he is now and the life he is developing for himself. Tune in to this episode and let Carey’s story give you hope, healing, and encouragement to live life after a great loss.

 

Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>115A New Life After Widowhood: Words Of Wisdom From A 21 Year Widow With Alma Davisk75rful2IqThu, 04 May 2023 10:00:00 GMT3641https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/a-new-life-after-widowhood-words-of-wisdom-from-a-21-year-widow-with-alma-davisfalseWhen my late husband passed, I met Alma Davis in CA to attend a widow conference, which was extremely helpful for me in learning to be a widow. In this episode, Alma shares her journey of being a widow for 21 years. Alma shares about her life, how she met her husband, Tony, his death, and the life she developed her new life after widowhood. You are going to enjoy her transparency, her ability to convey the importance of her faith as it relates to dealing with the death of her husband, her professional background, and how it impacted her life. Tune in for more!


Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>114The Challenges And Rewards Of Relocating After The Death Of A Spouse With Monika Dunnfu3f4j4pnZThu, 27 Apr 2023 10:00:00 GMT3660https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-challenges-and-rewards-of-relocating-after-the-death-of-a-spouse-with-monika-dunnfalseThere are many things you can do after losing a spouse. One of these can be relocation. In this episode, Monika Dunn provides insights into the rewards and challenges of relocating after the death of a spouse. The discussion with Monika Dunn wraps up with sharing Tina's journey from her perspective and those of family/friends. Moving to Virginia, Tina stayed with Monika on her last night in PA. Many connections join Tina's friendship with Monika, the similarities of their children's ages, serving in the military, their faith, and being in an interracial marriage, to name a few. Tune in to this episode and see how friendship gets us through challenges.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>113Embracing The Ugliness Of Grief With Alison Tariq5bsvfqKSnThu, 20 Apr 2023 10:00:00 GMT2469https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/embracing-the-ugliness-of-grief-with-alison-tariqfalseThis is a discussion with my friend Alison Tariq. On March 11, 2018, we celebrated the first anniversary of Mark's death in her home. After moving to VA, I became closed off, and Alison came to my home to comfort this behavior. Alison told me she didn't care how ugly my grief was when she was staying with me through the entire process. She took me to dinner and we just talked. Her actions made me realize I need to find a new therapist and continue doing the work of facing my grief.


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Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.


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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>112Chris Wissmann On Drawing Strength From Faith And Friends When GrievingFPOzz8q99Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:00:00 GMT3682https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/chris-wissmann-on-drawing-strength-from-faith-and-friends-when-grievingfalseLosing your partner siphons everything from you. During such a low point in your life, never forget that you can always turn to your faith and friends to get through with grief. In this discussion, Chris Wissmann talks about drawing strength from God and the people around you when you are grieving. She provides a candid insight into our friendship, the people Chris has lost in her life, and how her faith has been her strength. We also discuss our friendship over the years and our families. Chris provided a safe space and immense interest in my thoughts and grief for Mark. I sincerely appreciate her willingness to honestly want to know every idea, concern, and stressful part of missing my late husband.


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Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide

 

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>111The Power Of Friendship In Times Of Grief With Geraldine NewsonxJEDoChKRThu, 06 Apr 2023 10:00:00 GMT3054https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-power-of-friendship-in-times-of-grief-with-geraldine-newsonfalseThe power of friendship is truly mind-boggling. It serves as crutches when you can’t walk. It is your most reliable support system during desperate times. In this episode, Geraldine Newson shares the value of having friends you can rely on when you are grieving the loss of a loved one. She explains the importance of keeping people you can trust by your side during the long process of grieving. Geraldine also opens up on the significant role of friends in achieving inner healing.


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Thank you for viewing this post. I am not a licensed therapist or professional life coach.

 

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 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>110Silent Strength: The Power Of Friendship With Jennifer PilantEgRpROkxKQThu, 30 Mar 2023 10:00:00 GMT3985https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/silent-strength-the-power-of-friendship-with-jennifer-pilantfalseJennifer Pilant and Tina Fornwal have been close friends since 2009, and their bond has only grown stronger over the years. In this episode, Jennifer, who is the Supervisor of IT Specialists, showcases the power of friendship through widowhood by demonstrating her unwavering support for Tina after the loss of her husband Mark. Alongside her partner Paul, Jennifer dropped everything to be there for Tina during this difficult time, displaying her own silent strength and emotional depth. Tune in to this inspiring episode to witness the depth and resilience of friendship in the face of adversity.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>9The Power Of Friendship: Navigating Grief And New Beginnings With Elizabeth Randles yFwjn5ZHpuThu, 23 Mar 2023 10:00:00 GMT2708https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/the-power-of-friendship-navigating-grief-and-new-beginnings-with-elizabeth-randlesfalseFor today’s episode, Tina Fornwald sits down with her dear friend, Elizabeth Randles. They were both in the military, worked at Tobyhanna Army Depot, deployed to Iraq, and are women of color in the workplace. Liz shares her experience with grief and how her life is in a stage of growth and new beginnings. Their discussion shows the extensive levels of support a friend will give in your time of need. When you are in your most difficult moments of life, people often scatter, but for Tina, she learned her friends dig in deep and help carry the load. This episode is a testament to the power of friendship and the enduring connections that sustain us through all of life's ups and downs. Join this candid conversation with Liz. 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>8Moving Forward After The Death Of My Husband With Lisa Staplesmqz1vX_5VThu, 16 Mar 2023 10:00:00 GMT2374https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/moving-forward-after-the-death-of-my-husband-with-lisa-staplesfalseIn this episode, I am joined by my good friend Lisa Staples. We talk about the death of my husband Mark and the organic details of the day he passed away on March 11, 2017. Together, we delve into the beauty of a broken friendship being restored. Listen on as Lisa shares insights on how she felt being able to share and the healing she received from being a part of this inspiring discussion.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>7How Do I GoThrough Work While Grieving The Loss Of Someone Dear? With Jennifer MarrinerR7_814Ro3xThu, 09 Mar 2023 11:00:00 GMT2524https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/how-do-i-go-through-work-while-grieving-the-loss-of-someone-dear-with-jennifer-marrinerfalseThe pain of losing someone is always hard to get over. Anybody’s world will never be the same again following the death of a family member or close friend. In today’s episode, Tina Fornwald’s close friend Jennifer Marriner narrates her story of working through the grief of losing people very dear to her. Jennifer and Tina have worked together at Tobyhanna Army Depot Pennsylvania. Tune in and learn how their friendship was a critical part of Tina’s journey of learning to live again, navigating grief at work, and having a safe space to be honest about what she was experiencing. 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>6Dealing With Grief Through Faith With My Eldest Sister Denise R. BeckomeL75f4oQ8WThu, 02 Mar 2023 11:00:00 GMT2167https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/dealing-with-grief-through-faith-with-my-eldest-sister-denise-r-beckom/falseThe grief caused by losing a loved one is one of the heaviest burdens anyone will have to carry in life. In this conversation with my eldest sister Denise R. Beckom, she shares how her faith and deep connection with God allowed her to manage grief. As we wrap up our Family Series, we talk about her steadfast support to me after my husband passed away. Denise also opens up on how faith impacts how she looks at death, sharing her experiences after losing her beloved grandmother and a very close cousin.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>15On Ground Zero: Why Your Support System Is Important During A Time Of Loss With Jesse Beckom IIIJmBCrINHmThu, 23 Feb 2023 11:00:00 GMT2617https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/on-ground-zero-why-your-support-system-is-important-during-a-time-of-loss-with-jesse-beckom-iii/falseLosing someone you love can feel isolating. Having people surround you with love and support can mean the world as you cope with grief. For Tina Fornwald, much can be said about the great people in her life that helped her find healing. In this episode, she interviews a key person who has stood by her: her brother, Jesse Beckom III. Together, they discuss how Jesse supported Tina in those first two weeks after the death of her late husband, Mark W. Fornwald. They also discuss Jesse’s encounter with death at an early age from living on the south side of Chicago. Sharing their own griefs, they then talk about the death of their own father, Mr. Jesse Beckom Jr., and how they saw their mother, Addie Beckom, become a widow. Full of candor and transparency, Tina and Jesse’s conversation gives you a true sense of how valuable the people are in your life as you go through these crippling and tough times.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>4Here For The Long Haul: How To Help A Family Member Who Is Grieving With Ulanka BeckomiMCHnFNuTnThu, 16 Feb 2023 11:00:00 GMT1729https://thomash203.sg-host.com/here-for-the-long-haul-how-to-help-a-family-member-who-is-grieving-with-ulanka-beckomfalseWhen someone is grieving, we are often tempted to just ask them how you can help. But when someone’s grieving, they don’t know what they need. In this episode, Tina Fornwald interviews her own sister, Ulanka Beckom. They reminisce the time that Ulanka drove countless hours just to assist Tina in her time of need. It’s difficult to provide strength and support during this difficult time, but it isn’t impossible. Listen now as Ulanka shares practical strategies that can help your loved one cope with the pain of loss and help them on their journey towards healing. 


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>13Widow-To-Widow: A Mother And Daughter Talk With Addie BeckomTlbwN7HVCThu, 09 Feb 2023 11:00:00 GMT1487https://thomash203.sg-host.com/widow-to-widow-a-mother-and-daughter-talk-with-addie-beckomfalseLosing the love of your life can be too much. It is too painful that we almost forget how to live. In this episode, Tina welcomes her mother, Addie Beckom, to share some tips on living life in this widow-to-widow talk. Addie talks about her relationship with her husband, the experience of widowhood, and how she continued to live. It doesn’t matter what age you are when you lose your husband, always remember that there is hope and give yourself the opportunity for healing and encouragement. Tune in to this inspiring episode now.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

]]>12Tina's Story: Healing From The Death Of The Person We Planned To Spend Our Life With2Oy1jStjKvFri, 27 Jan 2023 12:54:00 GMT1595https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/tinas-story-healing-from-the-death-of-the-person-we-planned-to-spend-our-life-withfalseNothing prepares us for the loss of a loved one, especially the one person we plan to spend the rest of our entire life with. We are pushed into this difficult path of grief and sometimes, it can feel like the entire journey through it can swallow us up. Baring her soul and heartache with us to offer hope during this tough period in our lives, our very own Tina Fornwald shares her own story. Her friend, Jerri Newson, takes over and interviews Tina about how she navigated through the grieving process from the death of her husband that she spent 32 years with. She also talks about what prompted her to create a show around widowhood, loss, and death. Being in this dark place can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Let Tina and the stories of many others bring you hope through it.


Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/

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