For this episode I talk about something many of us on this widowed journey know all too well—the anniversary effect, or what I like to call the lead-up to the death anniversary. For me, September 12 will always carry weight, but what I have learned over these past four years is that the emotions do not just show up on the date itself. They build quietly, weeks before, and sometimes in ways I do not expect.  This is a very emotional episode where I share my personal experience of the lead up period. Thank you for listening.  If you have any questions on this episode please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

Welcome back to Widows That Wine Together. Today’s episode is such a special one, because we are talking about a milestone so many of us dream about as parents — our child’s wedding day. But when you are a widow, that day comes with layers of both joy and grief. I am joined by two amazing women, Julie and Mary, who each recently walked through this experience — one as the mother of the bride, and the other as the mother of the groom. They share what it was like from the moment of the engagement news, through the planning, and finally, to the wedding day itself. For me, this episode feels like I am sitting down with two big sisters, passing down wisdom to help me — and all of us — navigate these big milestones on our widowed journey. I cannot wait for you to hear their stories. If you have any questions on this episode I can be reached at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

Today’s episode is one filled with hope, growth, and gentle truth. Grief can feel like a place you are stuck in — like the weight will never lift, and the darkness will never clear. But what if we told you that where you are right now is not where you will stay? Our guest today brings both honesty and encouragement as we talk about how life can shift in the most unexpected ways. Thank you for listening to this episode. If you have any questions I can be reached at widowsthatwine@gmail.com. 

Welcome to The Widows That Wine Together podcast. This episode explores something deeply personal and universally impactful—the death of a spouse, which research has consistently shown to be the number one most stressful life event a person can experience. Dr. Debra Oliver, professor at Washington University in St. Louis and an expert in grief and psychological resilience joins me to unpack the far-reaching effects of this life-altering loss—and why it's so important to recognize and talk about what really happens behind the scenes when you're the one left behind. Thank you for listening to this episode. If you find this conversation helpful, please share this episode with someone who might need to hear it.  If you have any questions on this episode please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

In this episode, we are diving deep into widow judgment and the stigmas surrounding it. I am joined by Liz, Marie, and Sue who have walked this road and experienced firsthand what it’s like to have their grief and choices picked apart. We will talk about the weight of these expectations, the impact they have on the healing process, and most importantly, how we can challenge these judgments and reclaim our own narratives. Thank you for listening. If you have any questions on this episode please send an email to widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

This was an on-the-fly podcast at an airport in Kentucky as I reflected on how far I have come in 3.5 years. This was a vulnerable and deeply meaningful episode as I shared my story and shined the light on a part of widowhood that is not talked about enough.  It is the moment when the widow's fog lifts, the numbness fades, and you are left facing the true weight of the loss.  This is when I hit rock bottom in late March 2022/early April 2022. There are no guests on this episode.  It is just me sharing my story.  This timeframe was pivotal for me as I picked up the pieces and started to rebuild my life. Take a listen and may what I have to share give you some hope as you take each step forward after your loss.  If you have any questions please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.  Thank you for listening. 

Welcome to 'The Widows That Wine Together' podcast where we share stories of hope, resilience, and transformation after loss. For this episode I am joined by a truly inspiring guest, Jacqueline Bussie. Three years ago, she faced the unimaginable loss of her husband. Since then, she’s embarked on a journey of rediscovery, and in the last year, she’s taken a bold step forward—'showing up' to life in ways she never imagined. From trying new activities to embracing transformative experiences, her story is one of courage and restoration. Let's dive into her journey of loss, growth, and the power of living fully in the present. If you have any questions on this episode please contact me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

Welcome to The Widows That Wine Together podcast where we explore the complexities of grief and the ways we can grow through loss. Today, we’re diving into a crucial topic: grief literacy. My guest, Julie Martella, is a self-proclaimed ‘grief literacy crusader,’ passionate about helping others understand what grief literacy is and why the words we use matter. In this episode, we will explore how we can all be more mindful and sensitive in our conversations with those who are grieving. Together, we will unpack the power of language and how it can either support or unintentionally hurt someone navigating loss.  If you have any questions on this episode please send an email to  widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

This episode highlights the challenges that the holidays can bring for widows, such as overwhelming expectations, triggering traditions, or feeling pressured to participate in events.  The host, Jenny Salkeld, shares her our own story along with key points on setting boundaries for self-care and emotional well-being. If you have any questions on this episode please send an email to  widowsthatwine@gmail.com.  

In today's episode, I'm joined by Elizabeth Horn and John Polo as we dive into the complex and often emotional journey of dating after the loss of a spouse. John opened our discussion with his powerful analogy about "how they get their own damn cup," setting the tone for a candid conversation on navigating uncharted territory.  We talked about the range of emotions you may encounter—fear, guilt, and vulnerability—and how essential it is to give yourself patience and grace.  John also shared insights from his book, How to Date a Widow 101, and how you can find beauty in life again.  This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of embracing life after loss and finding new ways to celebrate it. If you have any questions on this episode or have ideas for future episodes please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com. Enjoy the episode.  

Welcome to the podcast! I’m thrilled to have our special guest, Rachel Kodanaz, speak about a deeply personal and often challenging topic: what to do with a loved one’s possessions after they pass. In our conversation, we highlighted the important understanding that there is no specific timeline for when to begin this process—it’s all about recognizing when you feel ready.  Whether you’re just starting this journey or considering it for the future, this episode offers heartfelt advice and valuable strategies to navigate this emotional terrain.  If you have any questions on this episode please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com

Welcome to the episode “Life is NOW” where we have a thoughtful and heartfelt conversation about embracing the philosophy that "Life is NOW".  In this episode, we explore the profound journey of Sandy Moore who shares how she was motivated to embrace the "Life is NOW" philosophy.  Her journey is a testament to resiliency and hope, providing invaluable insights for anyone facing similar challenges. Whether you're a widow seeking solace or someone striving to live more fully, Sandy’s story will inspire you to take life on with renewed purpose and joy. Join us for this moving conversation that highlights the beauty of living fully. If you have any questions regarding this episode or have ideas for future episodes please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com      

Welcome to this special episode of our podcast, where we delve into the transformative journey of a group of widows who embarked on a profound travel experience to Portugal.  Over the course of ten days, we witnessed an incredible evolution from the start of the trip until the final goodbyes. New friendships were forged, and there was a collective learning to live life fully in the present.  Join us as we share stories of transformation, healing, and the joy of looking forward to new adventures, learning to live life to the fullest once again. If you have any questions regarding this episode or have ideas for future episodes please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com

Losing a spouse is one of life's most challenging and heart-wrenching experiences. Yet, within this dark and uncertain space, there lies a path to reinvention and rediscovery.  Embracing change becomes a crucial part of this journey, as it opens the door to finding new purpose and meaning.  For this episode Deborah Nylec shares her story on how she found a way through the pain and emerged as a new version of herself, shaped by both love and loss...and of course some laughter as you will soon find out.  If you have any questions regarding this episode please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

Joining us today we have Jennifer Clark, Leah Johnston, Rebecca Hultquist who lost their husbands in 2020 and 2021. We also have Rosie Davis, who lost her mother to COVID in 2020 and started the Yellow Heart Memorial to remember those that passed from this illness. We all share one commonality in which we want to make sure that our loved one is not simply a statistic of the pandemic. The stories highlighted in the podcast demonstrate that our loved ones were more than a number.  There is so much that can be learned from our personal experiences.  Unlike other grief, COVID widows endured a traumatic experience in a very polarizing environment.  If you have any questions on the episode reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

Is it just a random coincidence or it is more? Signs and synchronicities are the universe’s way of reaching out and providing us guidance.  Tanya Carroll Richardson, a spiritual author and professional intuitive, along with Jennifer Clark and Cory Schaller, badass widow friends, join me in discussing the fascinating way the universe communicates with us.  If you have any questions please reach out to me at widowthatwine@gmail.com.

This episode will highlight the benefits of traveling particularly after the loss of a loved one.  Guests Erin Hente and Jennifer Clark discuss how important it is for us to embrace the benefits of travel as a means to heal and realize that the world is filled with beauty and opportunities.  Travel gives us the opportunity to reflect and explore new insights and perspectives. 

My badass widow friends join me on this podcast to discuss what we did with our wedding rings after our loved one passed.  The decision to remove a wedding ring is a deeply personal one and there is no right or wrong answer.  This amazing group of women share their personal stories and words of encouragement for those of you that may be facing this pivotal point in your grief journey.  If you have any questions please reach out to me at widowthatwine@gmail.com.

Episode 6 highlights the importance of getting your financial house in order after the loss of your loved one.  Rick Salmeron, Certified Financial Planner, highlights how he can help you navigate the financial Jenga as you move forward in paving a new path for your future.  If you have any questions or have ideas for future podcasts please email me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com

Losing a parent is a difficult experience and my daughter Samantha shares her story and perspective on how the loss of her dad has shaped her life today.  She also highlights the importance of honoring and remembering her father’s legacy, particularly on Father’s Day.