The Widow Squad Podcast Widow Squad

Jessica Schaffer, founder of The Chrysalis Imagery, discusses exploring grief through drawing and the transformative power of finding comfort in creativity.  When her partner Patrice died, Jessica processed  her grief through emerging creative impulses in her search for a new sense of direction. The result is a business selling greeting cards and artwork that provide profound, relatable messages for those navigating significant life challenges. 

Key topics in this episode: 
The societal pressure to present curated, glamorous lives versus the reality of grief and lossRedefining resilience with a broader definition that includes allowing oneself to fall apart and take time for healingFinding moments of safety by anchoring towards tangible physical sensations as a coping mechanismGet the full transcript and more here:
https://widowsquad.com/exploring-grief-through-drawing/

Discover the moving story of Tracy Quinn, a Widow Squad community member, who faced the unimaginable grief of COVID loss when her husband died suddenly at the beginning of a global pandemic. Tracy reflects on the unpredictable nature of grief, the enduring love for a lost spouse, and the gradual journey towards healing.

Key topics in this episode:
The sudden and devastating impact of COVID-19The complexities of healing and starting anew after a spouse’s deathThe personal growth and insights gained from coping with significant lossGet the full transcript and more at: https://widowsquad.com/covid-loss

Jody LaVoie's life changed drastically when her husband was shot by a disgruntled employee, propelling her from stay-at-home mom to CEO of their $50 million company. Turning her pain into purpose, Jody now advocates for improved bereavement support in the workplace, aiming to create a more empathetic work environment for those dealing with loss.

Key topics in this episode include:
Balancing personal grief with professional responsibilitiesThe need for organizations to understand and support employees dealing with lossFinding new meaning and purpose after a significant life changeGet the full transcript and more here: https://widowsquad.com/grief-in-the-workplace

Melissa gets real about the rollercoaster of healing after losing your partner, sharing five heartfelt tips that cover everything from being kind to yourself to finding light in the dark. It's like sitting down with a friend who's been there, offering a helping hand and some wise words to help you find your feet again.

Key topics in this episode: 
The importance of self-talk Prioritizing self-care over self-sacrificeEmbracing and processing emotionsGet the full transcript and more here: https://widowsquad.com/healing-strategies-for-widows

It's difficult to move forward after a profound loss, but following the death of her husband, Susan Hannifin-MacNab transformed her deep pain into a healing toolbox for others going through the rough journey of grief.  Her book, A to Z Healing Toolbox: A Practical Guide for Navigating Grief and Trauma with Intention  has reached and aided people worldwide.
Key topics in this episode include:
The need for a diverse set of tools to address the multifaceted nature of lossThe importance of community and peer supportInnovative approaches to healingGet the full transcript and more here: https://widowsquad.com/healing-toolbox

One of the most profound struggles many widows face involves distinguishing between being alone and feeling lonely. Being alone is simply the absence of others. But the feeling of loneliness is a call to action. It's a nudge to reach out and connect, whether that's with others who understand, with new hobbies, or even with parts of yourself you've neglected. 

Key topics in this episode:
Understanding the difference between the being alone and feeling lonelyHow reaching out, engaging in self-care practices, and finding support groups can provide comfort during the grieving processThe significance of self-care and engaging in activities that promote personal growth and emotional healingGet the full transcript and more here:
https://widowsquad.com/loneliness-after-loss