What does life look like when love is intertwined with loss and grief?

Melissa Gallagher shares how her world was turned upside down in 2020, when soon after learning she was pregnant with their third child, her previously healthy husband James was rushed to hospital and diagnosed with cancer at the age of 39.

In the months that followed her young family faced unimaginable adversity trying to navigate pregnancy, cancer treatment and raising young boys in the middle of the pandemic.

Although James fought bravely, he succumbed to his illness on his 40th birthday in July 2021 leaving Melissa and 3 young sons completely devastated.

Over two years on Melissa has gone from wanting to only survive for her boys, to slowly learning to love life again, even if it doesn’t look how she thought it would.

She has worked through her early grief whilst dealing with the demands of a newborn baby and recently qualified as a life coach.

She is currently undertaking further studies, in the hope that she can somehow take her experience and help others by showing them what she has finally started to see is true, the pain remains but only because love does too, and that laughter really does return.

In this interview, we explore:

• Melissa's personal journey of coping with the loss of her husband, James, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The emotional rollercoaster of Dealing with cancer and pregnancy during the Covid restrictions.
• Coping with early grief with a newborn baby.
• The challenges of raising children who are learning how to grieve the loss of their father.

Resources:

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

There is one thing that can be difficult to talk about after becoming a widow and yet it is one of the most important topics to discuss.

How anxiety about your own heath can occur after losing your life partner.

This is a common challenge that many widows face and it’s important to know that you are not alone.

Listen as Karen talks about:

• Noticing and understanding the heightened health anxieties that often follow the loss of a loved one
• Listening to your body's signals and reaching out for support when needed
• Tools & strategies to work through health anxieties
• Learning how to embrace self-compassion and self-care for healing

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

How do we begin to build resilience after experiencing the loss of our loved one?

Karen shares her ABC's of resilience and the importance of finding hope and purpose in widowhood.

We’ll explore how to begin to bounce back and adapt when we are coping with grief.

Listen as I talk about:

• Cultivating a growth mindset to overcome challenges and embrace possibilities
• Acknowledging everyday acts of bravery and stepping out of our comfort zone
• Practicing self-compassion and caring for your own needs
• Finding inner drive and desire to create a meaningful life after loss

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

This week I am talking to the wonderful Julie New. 

Julie is an experienced personal recovery coach specialising in helping people after difficult and sometimes traumatic life change. Prior to starting her coaching Julie spent 20 years in the NHS as a senior nurse and midwife, she also worked on various pioneering NHS community projects.

Since becoming a professional coach in 2006 she has developed a unique New Chapter recovery program which has helped many people to reach new fulfilling phases in their lives, which they hadn’t thought possible.

Julie is an author of popular unique personal growth gift books including ‘The Grief Garden path and is a well-known inspirational and motivational wellbeing conference speaker.

In this episode Julie shares her own personal stories of loss, how she supported her two girls through grief towards health, healing and happiness and also shares her golden nuggets of wisdom.

We discuss anger, widowhood, rebuilding and finding glimmers of sunshine in a dark place.

Julie now supports others in their own journeys of grief and helps them to create something truly meaningful after loss.

‘Change is forever, but the pain doesn’t have to be…’

Email me:  julie@julienew.co.uk

Telephone me: 07967135870

Website: Julie New – Personal recovery coach

Follow my journey on Instagram: Julienewpersonalrecoverycoach

Join me on Twitter: @julienewcoach

Like my Facebook page: Julie New – Personal recovery coach

You are welcome to join my private Facebook group ‘Forever Flowers’, a place for people who care for ongoing motivation, inspiration, support and understanding:

https://facebook.com/groups/ForeverFlowers/?ref=share

Writing New Chapters with Stacey Macdonald

In this week's episode I speak to an incredibly honest and inspiring lady, Stacey Macdonald. Stacey’s husband Chris died suddenly in December 2013 from a heart attack when their daughter was only 12 years old.

Stacey shares her journey of loss and how she navigated her way through her grief in her own unique way, a way in which we could all learn a lot from.

We discuss; 

• How Stacey and her daughter dealt with that first Christmas
• The coping strategies Stacey used in her grief
• The pivotal moment Stacey realised she had to make some changes
• Supporting Children through their grief
• Navigating new relationships
• Deciding to live again after loss
• The importance of leaning into your own intuition
• Worrying about other people's judgements and assumptions
• Guilt
• Finding joy in today and writing the new chapters in our books with love and peace in our hearts

This really is such a wonderful conversation and I know you’ll be able to draw so much from this.

We got unexpectedly cut off at the end (the joys of living on a small island), so there is an abrupt finish to the conversation. We contemplated arranging another time to record an ending but I actually felt that Staceys final words of wisdom were so beautiful, it felt like the perfect end to a wonderful conversation, so we left it at is was.

In this episode I talk to Emma about the death of her husband Simon in July 2016 and how this impacted herself and their two young girls. We also discuss the learnings Emma has gained from Simon's death, the importance of being as prepared as we can for our own deaths and the deaths of those around us, and how we can find the support that’s right for us

.

Emma is a former end-of-life solicitor and Simon was in the military. Emma believed they had been very open about his death and prepared well for it, but there was still so much that they had not discussed

.

We talk about:

🟡 Wills and Power of Attorney

🟡 Funeral planning

🟡 How you want to die

🟡 Where you want to die

🟡 What you want to happen after your death

🟡 How lockdown actually helped Emma deal with her grief

🟡 Re-discovering parts you of you that had disappeared

🟡 Supporting grieving children

You can find Emma and contact her via the following links;

Website: www.rainbowhunting.co.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rainbowhuntingmoments/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-gray-50245133/

Sign up to Emma's monthly newsletter here: https://www.rainbowhunting.co.uk/news

 In this week’s episode I discuss TRE - Tension and trauma releasing exercises, with Sylvia Tillman, an alternative practitioner. Sylvia specialises in Jikiden Reiki,  Laughter yoga, and of course, TRE.

TRE is a somatic self help tool to release deep muscular patterns of stress. The exercises assist the body in releasing deep muscular patterns of stress, tension and trauma, created and held in the body during a traumatic experience or through chronic stress.

When grieving, we are very focused on our mental wellbeing and seeking out therapy or counselling, but grieving has an effect on us mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally and all areas need tending to as mind and body are intrinsically linked and they shouldn't be seen in isolation.

We discuss how TRE can very simply help us release this tension and trauma and the wonderful knock on effects this can have.

We have to learn to tune into our bodies more, to reconnect with our bodies, and allow it to lead us to our healing.

Contact details for Sylvia;

http://www.tremendoustre.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/WhatIsTheAlternative

https://www.instagram.com/learnTRE

https://twitter.com/LearnTRE

In this week’s podcast I talk about grief coaching. What it is, and what it isn’t.

I get asked lots of questions, things like, am I a therapist, am I a counseller? I am neither of those things. I coach you, help you, and guide you on your grief journey, no matter where in your grieving journey you are.

I want to hold your hand, be a voice of reason, and help you ask yourself more positive questions.

I create a safe space for you and for your grief with no expectation, no judgment, no criticism, no shoulds. Your journey is unique, but I want to be here for you.

Take a listen to this week's episode to see how I can help you.

In this episode I have a very raw, honest and relatable conversation with friend and fellow widow Lisa. Lisa's husband Simon died in November 2019 leaving her and her children to navigate their way through life without Simon. Lisa is so inspirational and incredibly wise so I wanted her to share her story with you so you can draw from her strength and wisdom. There will be so much in this episode that will resonate on a deep and profound level, I know you will not leave without feeling truly inspired and motivated. Take a listen.

In this episode of The Widow Podcast I discuss how we cannot always control what happens to us in life, but we can control how we respond. 

If we just take a minute to stop, breathe, and think about what we want our next step to be, we can choose a response that is more aligned with who we are and the person we want to be.

We can’t change the past, and we have little control over the future, all we have is now. So, take the time to think about what choices you want to make in this season of your life. Make the choice to show yourself compassion and kindness, instead of judgment and criticism. 

You can choose how to respond to your grief. Ask for help, accept help, lean into what is present for you. Don’t do it all yourself, don’t burn yourself out. And above all, focus on the language you’re using, stop saying ‘never’ and ‘always’, it’s not helping you. Choose your words wisely.

With the seasons comes change, and it is the same for our grief. Throughout the seasons we feel different emotions and desires, and the season has an impact on our mood and how we feel.

As the new month came, Autumn seemed to appear in the blink of an eye, and with the leaves falling, we are forced to face the harsh reality of the death of our loved one. And then Winter comes and we are see this as a time to rest, restore, and reconnect. This is the heaviest season as it feels so long, we just want to hibernate. 

But change quickly comes again in the Spring, with a sense of renewed hope. We see more light than darkness and have more energy to face our feelings, and tasks we may have been avoiding.

Summer is the best season, as things start to feel bright again. We learn to integrate our loss and the future. 

Remember, you will blossom again one day. All seasons are temporary, nothing is permanent. Trust what feels right, and listen to your body.

In this episode of The Widow Podcast I discuss three important factors to guide you on your grief journey. These factors haven’t been scientifically proven, they’re just from my own experience and from the experience of the people I help in one to one sessions, and in groups.

In my experience, the three most important factors are:

Rely on your support system, don’t say no to help. It’s important to remember that accepting help isn’t weakness, it doesn’t make you a burden or a bad person. People WANT to help, they want to be there for you, so let them in.

Change the narrative. Don’t let your loss define you. Don’t let it impact you negatively for the rest of your life. I had a burning desire to not become a victim, to believe life could be good again. I had no idea how to do it, or even if I fully believed it, but it was a belief and a desire within me, and it can be within you too. 

And finally, have an open heart and an open mind. Your life isn’t over, even if in that moment and moments to come it feels like it is. It hurts, and it’ll carry on hurting, but don’t close yourself off to new opportunities. Instead of saying no, never, say not right now, maybe in the future, maybe soon. Allow yourself to be open to the possibility of a happy future.

There is one thing that can be difficult to talk about after becoming a widow and yet it is one of the most important topics to discuss.

How anxiety about your own heath can occur after losing your life partner.

This is a common challenge that many widows face and it’s important to know that you are not alone.

Listen as Karen talks about:

• Noticing and understanding the heightened health anxieties that often follow the loss of a loved one
• Listening to your body's signals and reaching out for support when needed
• Tools & strategies to work through health anxieties
• Learning how to embrace self-compassion and self-care for healing

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Grief and Nutrition with Sabine Horner

In this episode, I invite Sabine Horner to discuss some of the ways that grief and nutrition are linked. We explore the different types of food we can eat and how we can use our breath to help us on our grieving journey. 

I have spoken with Sabine before, but for those of you who don’t know, Sabine is a registered nutritionist and an Ayurvedic Health Coach. Ayurveda derives from one of the classical languages of India, Sanskrit, with Ayur meaning life, and Veda meaning knowledge. Ayurveda is known to have holistic powers which cleanse and restore balance to our bodies and minds.

This is especially important in the early stages of our grieving journey, where we may not want to cook or eat, or even if we do want to eat we want all the foods that are bad for us.

In this episode, Sabine explains how nutrition and grief are intertwined, and why our gut health is so important. What we eat, when we eat it, and how we eat/drink has a lasting impact on our bodies. Sabine discusses what temperature we should drink our water, why deep breathing is essential, and how we should be taking multi-vitamins.

The relationship with ourselves is the most important relationship we will ever have, as we have to live with ourselves for our whole life. So, make that relationship a positive one, a loving one, and a compassionate one.

In this episode I discuss some of the feelings that may show up in your grief and how these feelings are normal and necessary, and why it's important to learn how to invite these feelings in and explore them.

There's a lot of unexpected and uncomfortable feelings that show up in our grief, they can be overwhelming, confusing and scary. As a result of this we can box things up, push them away and ignore them, because we don't know if they're normal or natural and we are not taught how to deal with them.

We can also layer these feelings with more negative thoughts around them, we judge them, criticise them, and create shame around them, causing more discomfort in an already uncomfortable situation.

I want to help normalise them for you, to help you feel more comfortable with what is showing up and understand that your feelings do not define you or make you a bad person.

Feelings are not problems to be solved, they are an experience to be allowed and all feelings are valid.

Grief has taught me a lot and to name just six has been difficult, but in this episode I talk about the things I have learnt though my grieving journey.

I discuss how we discover things about us we never knew existed, where I have discovered true comfort and Joy, and how there is opportunity for wonderful things even in our darkest days. 

There may be things I say that you just can't see yet, and that's ok, some of these learnings have taken years to see. If you're not there yet, that's ok, you're not doing it wrong, this is just a reflection on a few of the things that I have learnt though my own personal journey with grief.

Anniversaries, birthdays and holidays are often huge triggers for us in our grief leaving us unsure of what we should do to mark the occasion and how we can best support ourselves through them.

In this episode I talk about things you can do to honour your loved one, ways you can nurture your own needs and how our grief evolves over time.

It is a journey and we will all travel it at different paces and it different ways, there is no right or wrong, it's just finding the way that works best for you and being ok with that.

As hard as these days are it's important not to think of them as setbacks, but as an invitation to connect with our loved one, remember them and celebrate their life, eventually we will be able to do this with more love than pain.

We are so hard on ourselves in grief, forever putting ourselves down, telling ourselves we can't do it or we're not good enough. You can do it and you are good enough, in fact you are utterly incredible and I want you to start seeing that. I am here to cheer you on but also help you see the importance of being your own cheerleader. You are amazing, never forget that.

In this episode I wanted to offer some support and guidance on how to support somebody grieving the loss of a loved one. Grief is scary and it is a world we don't know or understand which can lead us to pull back from those we love when they need us the most. Here I share with you a few ideas that i've learnt through my own journey with grief and from clients navigating their way through loss too. Please share this with family and friends to help them to support you in the best way that they can. One of the biggest determiners of how well we do in grief is the support and connection we receive from others, so let's come together through these turbulent times for together we are stronger.

This is the first of many episodes which will inform, inspire and entertain you, but first I wanted to say hello and introduce myself telling you a little about my story and what bought me here to this point.

Widowhood has taught me so much about grief, loss and life, things I didn't know when I first came into this chaotic world and things I wish I had known. I'm sharing these learnings with you so hopefully you can feel less like you're going mad and more like what you are feeling is normal in the world of grief.

In this episode I share with you some of the learnings I have gained along the way about how best to support grieving children. It is incredibly hard to navigate your own way through grief, let alone find ways of supporting your children, so I wanted to offer some of the tips and tools that have helped me to support my own two girls through their grieving journey.

Have you ever found yourself comparing your grief journey to others? You’re not alone.

Many widows may compare their unique grief journey to others at some point but this can take a toll on your personal well-being.

Join me as we discuss finding your own way through grief and releasing the need to compare yourself with others who are grieving too.

Listen as I talk about:

• The common tendency among widows to compare their grief journeys
• Finding meaning and fulfilment in life rather than comparing oneself to others
• Practicing self-compassion and grounding oneself in the present moment
• The underestimated impact of grief on your daily life
• How grief can shape your personality, priorities, energy and identity

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

There’s no road map to navigating your way through relationships after the loss of a partner.

Building new connections and engaging with others is important in this new chapter of your life. But let’s face it, it can be hard.

In this episode we will look at the importance of building meaningful connections with supportive individuals and how these relationships can provide hope for the future.

Listen as I talk about:

Learning how to bounce back and adapt after loss

How one mantra has helped me navigate through  some challenging times

Navigating your way through complex social dynamics after loss

The shift that can occur in friendships, family, and social interactions

Understanding how the process of grief can vary for each person

The different forms of support people can offer and the significance of finding those who can truly be there for you.

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Widowhood has taught me so much about grief, loss and life, things I didn't know when I first came into this chaotic world and things I wish I had known.

I'm sharing these learnings with you so hopefully you can feel less like you're going mad and more like what you are feeling is normal in the world of grief.

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

In this episode I have a very raw, honest and relatable conversation with friend and fellow widow Lisa.

Lisa's husband Simon died in November 2019 leaving her and her children to navigate their way through life without Simon.

Lisa is so inspirational and incredibly wise so I wanted her to share her story with you so you can draw from her strength and wisdom.

There will be so much in this episode that will resonate on a deep and profound level, I know you will not leave without feeling truly inspired and motivated. Take a listen.

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Dina Gachman, Pulitzer Center Grantee and award winning journalist discovered grief when her family lost the lives of her mother and her sister.

For Dina, she found comfort in putting pen to paper and in 2023 she wrote a book of essays about grief, SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.

Dina shares her story of grief, love, loss and even humour as she navigated her way through the passing of two family members and how the rest of the family came together for support.

Listen as we talk about:

• Navigating your way through multiple losses
• Anticipating grief and the challenges of supporting a sister battling addiction
• Supporting parents through grief
• Humor as a source for healing
• How grief has become a part go her life and her work

Dina Bachman: Website: https://www.dinagachmanwrites.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgachman/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dinagachman

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

As we begin a new year it is a time for many to set goals. For others, it is the furthest thing on our mind.

Finding hope and meaning in the new year after the loss of a loved one can be hard. It’s ok for it to be hard.

From the challenges of loneliness to the importance of taking care of yourself during times of grief, I invite you to join me for a time of reflection and inspiration as we move forward into 2024 in a way that fulfils you and serves you in your grieving journey.

Listen as I talk about:

• Navigating your way into the New Year
• Focusing on the present moment, embracing core values, and considering what your loved one would wish for you in the new year
• How your partner’s love can continue to shine on and guide you through grief
• Acknowledging the challenges of holidays and milestones
• Reflecting on your progress and taking pride in your journey

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

How do we find hope during the holiday season when there’s grief?

In a season that can be filled with emotional challenges, I hope you find solace and peace in this special Christmas episode.

With the help of some of the members in my community we have brought together tips to honour the memories of your loved one, carry on with holiday traditions and practice self-care during the holidays.

Join me on a journey of rediscovering joy while honoring the memories of our loved ones.

Listen as I talk about:

• How to prioritise your wellbeing during the holiday season
• Handling the potential for judgement of others during this time
• Embracing Joy during a time of grief
• Navigating conflicting emotions during Christmas
• Honouring your loved one with holiday rituals and keeping their memory alive
• Practical tips for self-care to feel good during the holiday season

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

In this special 100th episode of The Widow podcast, listen to other Widows share their story about love, grief and how they move forward with life after loss.

Grief truly is not a problem that can be fixed.

Instead it is something we learn to live alongside.

What becomes important is how we learn to face the journey through our mindset.

Listen as widows share:

• Coping with a sudden loss of a husband
• Grief and isolation after husband's death from cancer
• Finding solace in community after an unexpected loss
• Learning self-kindness and embracing unexpected accomplishments after loss
• Taking time to pause and reframe negative experiences
• Setting boundaries, finding structure, and routine in grief
• Discovering new hobbies and joy after loss
• Connecting with other widows and finding support through shared a journey

If you would like to save your FREE place at my Podcast Party on 11th January 2024 7pm UK time, celebrating Episode 100, please click on the following link and we can walk into 2024 with hope in our hearts - www.karensutton.co.uk/podcastparty 

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Grief and the process of healing after loss is a journey.

So many of us wonder, how do we navigate through the complexities of losing a life partner?

In this heartfelt episode, you’ll hear how the power of community can help you to find hope and find your way once again.

Listen as Karen talks about:

• The unique challenges of losing a life partner and how it impacts every aspect of your life.
• The importance of finding a supportive community to help you through your grief.
• How to create a meaningful and fulfilling life after loss.
• How grief evolves over time and how to embrace your journey.

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

How does one find their way through the quiet moments that follow after the loss of a life partner?

Tim, a recent widower, tells his story of losing his wife, Val, unexpectedly.

From a chance encounter on a train to her final moments, we explore his journey through grief and the resilience that emerged to take care of his daughter and care for himself.

Listen as we talk about:

• A chance encounter that led to love
• The battle with feelings of failure and regret that can happen after losing a spouse
• Val's resilience and bravery during even the darkest of times
• Keeping memories alive with journaling and photos
• The challenges of the second year of grief
• Honouring the past with tradition and confronting a future without your partner
• Finding comfort in the quiet moments

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Sometimes one person's journey through grief and loss can become a source of inspiration and healing for others.

When Ric Hart lost his wife just hours after the birth of their son, he channelled his grief into writing, becoming the author of numerous books for both adults and children.

He also began his own podcast, "Real With Ric," so that he could share his grief story and support others on the grief journey as well.

Listen as we talk about:

• How Ric navigated his story and the profound impact of losing his wife shortly after their son Hugo's birth.
• Embracing personal empowerment: the resilience and mindset shifts that occur during your time of grief.
• The complexities of finding love again after loss.
• How creative expression can became a great asset to cope with the loss of a loved one.

Learn more about Ric Hart :

Instagram: @richardhart786

Podcast: Real With Ric

Growth Through Grief: A Powerful Story Through Loss and Stepping Forward:

https://www.waterstones.com/book/growth-through-grief/ric-hart/9781803814902

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

In today’s episode, discover how shamanic priestess Alex Vitillo went from working in finance for 15 years to finding respite in meditation, mindfulness and energy healing after losing her husband to cancer.

Alex shares her profound wisdom and how she developed her own methodology to help heart-centred individuals reclaim their lives and ditch the self-doubt to create abundance and harmony in every aspect of their life.

Listen as we talk about:

• The transformation one must go through in life after loss.
• Why connection and shared experiences is so important in the healing journey.
• Discovering your hidden gifts and spirituality during grief.
• How spirituality and personal growth can be tools for healing during loss.
• Trusting your intuition and inner knowing when you receive signs from the universe.

Learn more about Alex Vitillo:

www.breathingheart.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/alex.vitillo.9/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-vitillo-gabay/

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

How can you find hope and create a meaningful life after losing your life partner?

The reality is grief is not a linear process and feelings will shift from sorrow, to anger, to confusion to frustration.

Give yourself permission to grieve, to heal and know it is possible to move towards a positive and meaningful life after loss.

Listen as I talk about:

• Seeking support during the grieving process and how it can positively impact your journey.
• Finding hope even in the darkest moments.
• Creating a life filled with purpose and meaning post-loss.
• Giving yourself permission to grieve in your own way.

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Have you ever wondered how to find hope again and the resilience to carry on after experiencing a profound loss?

Pete Cohen is an expert in human behaviour and performance, business consultant, coach, motivational speaker and the founder of Mi365.

Pete has dedicated his life to helping others discover their true passions, living life intentionally and become the best versions of themselves.

The author of 20 published books, the Host of the Mi365 Daily Intentions podcast, the resident and life coach on GM TV for 12 years and the coach to numerous world-class sporting stars and teams, Pete has helped inspired and empowered so many people to live their lives with purpose and meaning.

Pete also recently lost his wife, Hannah who had been diagnosed with a brain tumour and given 18 months to live. When she passed Pete went on his own journey to find inner strength and resilience.

Listen as we talk about:

• Pete's journey of grief after the loss of his wife, Hannah.
• Finding resilience and the possibility of rebuilding one's life after loss.
• Honoring the memory of loved ones by sharing stories about them and keeping their presence alive.
• Stopping to appreciate each moment and the value you bring to the world.
• The importance of embracing and evolving who you become after loss.

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

What role does community play in the process of healing and recovery?

Join us as I talk about finding hope after loss and creating a meaningful life with the support of others.

Discover the significance of sharing to help yourself and to help others in their darkest times.

Listen as I share:

• How grief can have both emotional and physical impacts on the body
• How self-care practices help alleviate physical and emotional symptoms
• Why community and sharing experiences can be therapeutic in your road to healing

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

What does life look like when love is intertwined with loss and grief?

Melissa Gallagher shares how her world was turned upside down in 2020, when soon after learning she was pregnant with their third child, her previously healthy husband James was rushed to hospital and diagnosed with cancer at the age of 39.

In the months that followed her young family faced unimaginable adversity trying to navigate pregnancy, cancer treatment and raising young boys in the middle of the pandemic.

Although James fought bravely, he succumbed to his illness on his 40th birthday in July 2021 leaving Melissa and 3 young sons completely devastated.

Over two years on Melissa has gone from wanting to only survive for her boys, to slowly learning to love life again, even if it doesn’t look how she thought it would.

She has worked through her early grief whilst dealing with the demands of a newborn baby and recently qualified as a life coach.

She is currently undertaking further studies, in the hope that she can somehow take her experience and help others by showing them what she has finally started to see is true, the pain remains but only because love does too, and that laughter really does return.

In this interview, we explore:

• Melissa's personal journey of coping with the loss of her husband, James, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The emotional rollercoaster of Dealing with cancer and pregnancy during the Covid restrictions.
• Coping with early grief with a newborn baby.
• The challenges of raising children who are learning how to grieve the loss of their father.

Resources:

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

There is a powerful connection between grief and the physical response that can occur within our body.

In fact, grief can show up in a variety of ways in our body.

Our body is communicating too us and in this episode we explore the impact of grief on our immune system and how to alleviate physical symptoms through self-care practices.

Listen as I talk about:

• The physical toll of grief on your body and how it can manifest as symptoms
• The impact of the stress response and how it affects your overall health
• Practical tips and exercises to help you manage and alleviate grief
• Ways to activate your parasympathetic nervous system and find relief

Resources:

• Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Grief. It doesn’t follow a linear path. In fact, it can often be unpredictable. There is no making sense of grief. It is a journey of rebuilding life after loss, one day at a time. Explore the importance of acknowledging your feelings, finding support, and rediscovering joy amidst grief's challenges in today’s episode.

Listen as I talk about:

• Learning to find happiness after loss
• Rebuilding your life after loss and the journey that will require patience and support
• Getting past the guilt to allow joy back into your life
• Reconnecting with others, rebuilding connections, and discovering who you are now

Resources:

• Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October

https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Have you ever wondered how to find purpose and joy again after losing your loved one?

If you've ever felt lost, overwhelmed, or uncertainty about creating a meaningful life after loss, listen as I reveal the path to rediscovering yourself.

Explore practical steps to help you navigate this difficult journey on today’s episode.

Listen as I share:

• How rebuilding life after loss is a gradual and evolving process, and why that's okay.
• Discovering your purpose and the importance of self- discovery.
• Trying new things and connecting with a supportive community.
• Why finding joy and laughter in your healing journey and allowing yourself to have fun is so important.
• Setting goals to give your life direction and motivation.
• The value of leaning on others for support and asking for help when needed.
• Navigating setbacks and challenges with resilience.

Resources:

• Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

In this special episode, we return with a part 2 of Words of Wisdom as eight widows share their stories of loss and of love.

Join us for stories of resilience from a community of women who have walked the path of widowhood.

The widows share their experiences to show you the power of connection and support in navigating grief.

Listen as the widows talk about:

• Finding comfort in nature, gratitude, and support groups
• Feeling less alone in grief and finding a sense of belonging through community
• Learning to live without your loved one and making plans for the future
• Finding solace and support while going through the stages of grief

Resources:

Join The Widows Membership:

https://www.karensutton.co.uk/the-widow-membership

Website: https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

How do you navigate your way through grief after the loss of a loved one?

Grief is a natural part of the healing and it can be a challenging part of the journey.

Discover how to build a healthy relationship with grief and find ways to express and release the emotions that accompany loss.

Listen as I talk about:

• How grief is multifaceted and can impact every aspect of life
• Allowing yourself to feel and express your emotions, even when it feels uncomfortable
• Finding healthy coping mechanisms and support networks to help you navigate through grief
• How grief can be a transformative experience, revealing aspects of yourself and your capabilities that you may not have known existed
• Why suppressing or avoiding your emotions can lead to long-term challenges

Resources:

• Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Glimmers, tiny micro moments of joy that offer a sense of calm and inner peace. Did you know that glimmers can be a powerful source of support in your grieving journey?

Join me as I explore what glimmers are, why they matter, and how they can help you navigate through grief.

We will be taking time to notice and appreciate the glimmers as part of your path to healing.

Listen as I talk about:

• Seeking out these small moments of joy, even in the midst of profound grief
• How glimmers activate your parasympathetic nervous system to help you feel calm & safe when grief triggers your stress response
• Allowing joy and pain to coexist and why it’s important to acknowledge both aspects of your own experience with grief
• Practical ways to seek out and nurture glimmers to help heal and build resilience

Resources:

• Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song
• Finding Hope In Widowhood - Twelve month Programme information. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/finding-hope-in-widowhood

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

When we are grieving sometimes we forget to be kind to ourselves.

If we are to become resilient for ourselves and our loved ones, we must first start with nurturing the relationship with yourself.

In this episode, I invite you to slow down, to lie in the stillness and quiet where there is no pressure and no expectation.

Listen as I talk about:

• Listening to your body to tune in to your physical and emotional needs during times of grief

• Understanding the delicate balance between setting goals for yourself and understanding when it’s time to slow down, take a moment & reflect

• Allowing space for self-kindness and being ok with your journey being messy and imperfect as you learn and make new discoveries

• The power of your words and how the words and phrases you use can shape your reality

• Reframing negative self-talk into empowering affirmations to support you in your healing journey

Resources:

• Awakening Hope - FREE four day event from 11th - 14th September. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/awakeninghope
• Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song

• Finding Hope In Widowhood - Twelve month Programme information. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/finding-hope-in-widowhood

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Seven years can feel like a lifetime when you are a widow.

When you lose your life partner, one chapter closes and another chapter opens with new experiences, lots of growth and moments of grieving in between.

Join Karen as she shares her experiences and guidance on navigating through the complex emotions and discoveries that come with widowhood.

Listen as we talk about:

• Taking time to reflect on your achievements and allowing yourself the space for personal growth and to find peace and love.
• Reflecting on what life would be like if your partner was still alive
• The reality of ongoing grief years after your loved one has passed
• How to start listening to your body, ask questions and wait for the answer
• How to release the feeling of loss

Resources:

• Awakening Hope - FREE four day event from 11th - 14th September. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/awakeninghope

• Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song
• Finding Hope In Widowhood - Twelve month Programme information. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/finding-hope-in-widowhood

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Join Karen for season 3 of The Widow Podcast as she shares the value in receiving support and guidance during widowhood.

From retreats, The Widows Choir to our 12 month programme, Finding Hope in Widowhood, discover what becomes possible when you find your community of support.

Be inspired and discover how you can reclaim the next steps in life through your own personal development journey in finding hope.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Why community is the foundation for moving trough grief and finding hope in widowhood.
• How resilience, personal growth & development can help heal and rebuild your life after loss.
• How Awakening Hope is the best way to take that first step into resilience.

Resources:

• Awakening Hope - FREE four day event from 11th - 14th September. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/awakeninghope
• Widows Choir - Day event in Birmingham UK on the 21st October https://www.widowretreats.com/widows-choir-grief-and-healing-through-song
• Finding Hope In Widowhood - Twelve month Programme information. https://www.karensutton.co.uk/finding-hope-in-widowhood

Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https://www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

Join Karen for a recap of the episode’s in season 2 of The Widow Podcast.

There have been so many powerful conversations, insights and stories shared with us through the guest speakers this season.

While we have different experiences, belief systems, upbringings and different people around us, when you bring people together that are going through something similar, magical things happen.

Listen as I discuss:

• How we can become more resilient in our grief
• Finding joy, peace and hope after loss
• The importance of self-care, self-compassion and self-discovery
• Healthy ways to express grief
• Finding a supportive community that understands your grief

Resources:

• Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https:// www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising

• Find me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/karensuttonwidowcoach
• Find me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/karensuttonwidowcoach/

• TikTok http://www.tiktok.com/@karensuttonwidowcoach
• Twitter https://twitter.com/KarenWidow
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/karensuttonwidowcoach/
• YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNgKpAqSpEdQV2zYJIPaHvg
• My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/

How do we find meaning and purpose in our life as a widow?

As you navigate your way through your grief one of the first steps will be to decide what kind of life you want to create for yourself that is meaningful and purposeful.

The road may be rocky and so in this episode I invite you to reimagine a future that can look meaningful.

Listen as I discuss:

• The first steps to creating a meaningful and purposeful life
• Stepping out of your comfort zone to try something new
• Reimagining your goals and dreams
• Finding Purpose in the smaller moments of life
• The importance of self-compassion, self-discovery and a supportive community

Resources:

• Join my Free Facebook Group ‘Widowed and Rising’ https:// www.facebook.com/groups/widowedandrising
• Find me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/karensuttonwidowcoach
• Find me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/karensuttonwidowcoach/
• TikTok http://www.tiktok.com/@karensuttonwidowcoach
• Twitter https://twitter.com/KarenWidow
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/karensuttonwidowcoach/
• YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNgKpAqSpEdQV2zYJIPaHvg
• My website https://www.karensutton.co.uk/