Real & Rooted

Lori
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Relationships

Real & Rooted is a sanctuary for honest, heart‑level conversations where we explore grief, resilience, and the quiet strength that emerges when we tell the truth about our lives. It’s a grounded space for reflection, healing, and community — a place to feel seen, supported, and anchored as we grow toward a more wholehearted way of living. 

  1. May 11

    Mother's Day and the Power of Reset: Finding Wholeness Amidst Grief and Growth

    This special Mother’s Day episode dives into the layered emotions of motherhood—love, grief, resilience, and renewal. Lori shares her personal journey and insights on how grief reshapes us and why taking mental resets is vital for growth and healing. Key topics:  The duality of Mother’s Day — celebration and loss How grief reorganizes the architecture of our lives and identities The importance of mental resets as survival tools in motherhood The concept of “missing pieces” and how they refine rather than define us Redefining strength through honesty, pause, and resilience The evolving nature of motherhood and identity at the shoreline Practical ways to embrace resets: asking for help, setting boundaries, forgiving oneself The significance of integrating grief and honoring the past while building the future The power of choosing to move forward differently—not backward Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to the layered feelings of Mother’s Day 00:12 - The reality behind the idealized Mother’s Day  00:45 - Grief’s impact on life and identity  01:17 - Surviving and adapting after loss  01:57 - The silence and gaps in sacred spaces  02:28 - What happens when the pillar of strength cracks  02:51 - Mothering while evolving and mental resets as essential tools  03:21 - Reflecting on personal growth and change through motherhood  03:50 - The importance of mental health and self-care  04:37 - Making space for grief and loss  05:08 - The shoreline metaphor: grief, motherhood, growth  05:58 - How each child witnesses a different version of mothering  06:28 - The ongoing evolution of motherhood over the years  07:12 - Resistance to resets and embracing water over concrete  07:43 - Redefining strength: honesty, pause, and healing  08:16 - The transformative power of pieces falling away  09:14 - Grief and love coexistence  09:33 - Facing the terrifying truth of change  10:01 - The promise of resilience and forging new paths  10:43 - Honoring internal struggles while continuing to evolve  11:10 - Encouragement for mothers feeling overwhelmed  11:40 - Practical steps for mental resets: asking for help, boundaries, forgiveness 12:37 - Redefining strength—inner resilience and honesty  13:20 - Moving from memory to integration after profound loss  13:36 - The importance of evolution and the continual process of healing  14:07 - Acceptance that not all pieces will return  14:40 - Carrying the past, honoring the present, building the future  15:08 - Celebrating the resilient, honest, and brave mother  15:42 - The significance of ongoing resets and continuous growth  16:29 - Shifting the focus from why to who we are becoming  16:42 - Motherhood as a shoreline that shifts and reshapes  17:01 - Embracing the emotional spectrum of Mother’s Day  17:43 - Encouragement to share the message of reset and renewal  18:13 - Closing thoughts and gratitude Resources & Links:  Book: Missing Pieces by Lori Kendall  Connect with Lori: Facebook Remember, motherhood and grief are ongoing journeys. Embrace each reset as a step toward becoming more whole and authentic.

    19 min

  2. Apr 26

    Recognizing the Shifts That Go Unseen: Embracing Change and Self-Discovery

    In this episode of the Real and Rooted podcast, Lori shares a heartfelt reflection on the quiet moments of change—those shifts that often go unnoticed but profoundly impact our lives. Tune in to explore how recognizing these subtle signals can lead to alignment and growth. Main Topics:  The significance of unnoticed moments that signal transformation  Differentiating success on the outside from internal alignment  The emotional weight of work environments and unspoken pressures  The decision to leave what no longer serves us and embracing new chapters  Self-awareness as a tool for recognizing outgrown roles and shifting identities  The importance of patience and grounding when transitioning between pursuits  How to hold space for both success and misalignment simultaneously  Preparing for what comes next without rushing into the next opportunity  Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction: noticing the moments that don't match expectations  00:18 - The quiet realization of change and the importance of space  00:40 - The story of leaving a beloved role and reactions from others  01:00 - Recognizing internal disconnect versus external success  01:27 - The weight of unspoken pressures in work environments  01:50 - How leadership perceives and sometimes ignores underlying issues  02:23 - The moment of internal realization: letting go of carry-over stress  02:54 - The emotional toll of pressure and the choice to release it  03:22 - The importance of self-awareness in identifying outgrown roles  03:52 - Addressing masking emotions and the desire to just be oneself  04:15 - Reflecting on the transition and preparing for what's next  04:30 - Recognizing successes alongside feelings of misalignment  04:55 - The necessity of closing chapters before starting new ones  05:24 - Embracing uncertainty and excitement for future growth  05:39 - Practical encouragement: reflect on the past week and what to carry forward  05:59 - Closing thoughts and anticipation for the next conversation Resources & Links:   Book: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle   Connect with Lori:   Facebook  Missing Pieces  Note: Walks through the process of tuning into subtle signs of change and encourages patience and compassion during transitions. Perfect for anyone feeling stuck or at a crossroads, seeking to honor their internal rhythm over external expectations.

    15 min

  3. Apr 24

    Living Between Two Worlds: Grief, Connection, and Moving Forward

    Living Between Two Worlds: Grief, Connection, and Moving Forward In this heartfelt episode of The Real and Rooted podcast, Lori Kendall shares her deeply personal journey of navigating grief after the loss of her child, Kole. She explores the emotional space between past memories and future hopes, emphasizing the importance of grace, connection, and carrying loved ones forward in many forms. Key Topics:  The emotional landscape of grief and living between two worlds  How community and space foster healing during difficult times  Practical ways to honor loved ones and keep their memory alive  The significance of self-compassion and understanding in grief  Recognizing and embracing the duality of love and loss  Moving forward with intention while carrying loved ones in heart  The impact of vulnerability and authentic connection in healing  Tools for grounding during emotional crises  Timestamps: 00:50 - Introduction: The importance of facing grief authentically 1:21 - The concept of living between two worlds after loss 2:05 - How identity shifts after grief—what remains and what changes 3:05 - The power of community and space to process grief 4:51 - Sharing Kole’s story: struggles and moments of pride 6:34 - The significance of witnessing moments of pride and loss 8:50 - The importance of giving grace to oneself and others during grief 9:36 - Deciding to step away from a familiar environment to heal 11:23 - Living in parallel realities—the external world vs. internal experience 12:25 - Being present in grief while remaining connected to love 14:07 - Reframing the idea of moving forward—integrating the loved ones we carry 15:40 - The power of safe spaces to grieve and feel seen 16:32 - Questions for self-reflection: who allows you to be real? 17:28 - The importance of keeping loved ones’ names and stories alive 18:35 - Personal rituals and symbols to honor Kole’s memory 19:18 - Embracing the ongoing presence of loved ones in daily life 20:14 - Focusing on the next right step in moments of overwhelming emotion 21:32 - Grounding techniques to manage grief’s intensity 22:08 - Living more in the moment post-loss, less planning ahead 23:15 - Carrying loved ones with us—music, photos, shared moments 24:19 - Challenges of fully living after loss and honoring their memory 25:16 - Resources and support for navigating loss and military transitions 26:16 - The ongoing journey of carrying loved ones into the future 27:36 - The importance of support and being space-holders for those grieving 28:12 - Honoring the balance of strength and vulnerability in grief 29:17 - Closing thoughts: embracing the non-linear nature of grief and love Resources & Links:   The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown  Supporting Grief and Loss Resources  Military Transition Resources  Connect with Lori:   Facebook  Website  Keep in mind that grief is non-linear. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and every step, no matter how small, is part of healing.

    31 min

  4. Apr 21

    Shedding & Growth

    Shedding and Growth: Navigating Life’s Shoreline with Lori Kendall Join Lori Kendall in this heartfelt episode of the Real and Rooted podcast as she reflects on the power of connection, growth, and letting go. After a meaningful weekend with Coast Guard moms, she shares personal insights on grief, transition, and the importance of community during uncertain times. Key Topics:   The significance of the shoreline as a metaphor for reflection and transition  Personal stories of grief, legacy, and honoring loved ones  The importance of connection, community, and choosing one’s circle  Transition out of military life and the search for steady grounding  The concept of shedding what no longer serves us for growth  Journaling prompts for self-reflection on releasing burdens  Embracing opportunities and looking forward with hope and excitement  Timestamps:  00:01 - Welcome and introduction to the shoreline metaphor  00:29 - Reflection on a weekend getaway and meeting yourself where you are 00:59 - The power of community and shared experiences  02:28 - Supporting the Cape May Community Foundation during COVID  03:19 - Honoring loved ones and grief journey 04:00 - Permission to feel, cry, and grow  04:59 - Connecting with women and moms from the Coast Guard community 05:35 - The value of shared legacy and loyalty  06:41 - The importance of building new connections and paths  07:36 - How differences in interests and life pace foster belonging  08:36 - Choosing who to trust and include in your circle  09:06 - Military sacrifices and the importance of relationships  09:59 - Transition out of military life as a shift from structure to opportunity  10:54 - The search for steady guidance after military service  11:24 - Finding your lighthouse and sense of direction  11:47 - The shoreline as a space to hold on and release  12:12 - Reflection exercise: shedding what no longer serves  12:40 - Encouragement to share our burdens for mutual support  13:39 - The power of connection and shared presence  14:01 - Personal story of grief and making difficult decisions  15:35 - Growth as a stretch and opportunity for elevation  16:00 - Shedding burdens and looking towards the future  16:28 - Embracing opportunities and feeling the tides of change  16:52 - Celebrating what’s next, inspired by weekend festivities  17:18 - Encouragement to pursue what feels exciting and centered  17:44 - Journaling prompt: what to shed and trust  18:06 - Reflection on habits, heavy feelings, and transformation  18:36 - Invitation to share what you’re shedding this week  19:28 - Closing thoughts on community and moving forward Resources & Links:   Cape May Community Foundation  Puddle Pirates  Connect with Lori:   Facebook Missing PiecesThe Kole T. Kendall Anchored Navigation Project

    19 min

  5. Apr 12

    The Permission to Evolve

    Embracing Change and Personal Growth — Sunday Shorelines Podcast  In this episode, Lori explores the sacred space of Sunday as a metaphor for transition and growth. She encourages listeners to embrace their evolution, recognizing that outgrowing old patterns is a sign of alignment, not failure, and offers guidance on navigating the discomfort that change brings. Key Topics:   The significance of Sundays as a moment of pause and reflection  The shoreline analogy: growth as natural as the tide's movement  The world’s comfort with who you were vs who you're becoming  Recognizing the cost of staying the same versus evolving  Personal stories of career growth in sales, marketing, and leadership  The difference between loyalty and self-abandonment  How to handle guilt and societal expectations during periods of change  Practical steps to move forward boldly and authentically  The importance of self-care and self-acceptance during transformation  Timestamps:  00:00 - Welcome to Sunday Shorelines: embracing the sacred pause  01:33 - Arriving at the shoreline: unclenching and being present  02:26 - The world’s comfort with your past self versus your future self  03:09 - Growth as an invitation, not a disruption  04:23 - Outgrowing without guilt: it’s redistribution, not rejection 05:18 - The tide’s movement as a metaphor for natural change  06:36 - Personal career journey in marketing and leadership  08:27 - Loyalty versus self-abandonment: recognizing the difference  09:10 - The high cost of staying stagnant  09:56 - The desire for more: embracing ambition despite societal judgment  10:18 - Moving beyond the shoreline: navigating guilt and permission  11:06 - The water’s steady movement: a reminder to evolve at your own pace  11:35 - Preparing for the next steps in personal growth  12:02 - Passing on the message: sharing the courage to evolve  12:47 - Affirmations: you are enough today and always capable of growth  13:08 - Looking forward to deeper dives: Wednesday’s live session Resources & Links:   Book: Rising Strong by Brené Brown  Lori Kendall - LinkedIn

    15 min

  6. Apr 8

    Navigating the Invisible Struggles of Grief and Loss

    Title: Navigating the Invisible Struggles of Grief and Loss  In this heartfelt episode of the Real and Rooted Podcast, Lori shares her deeply personal experience with grief after the loss of her child, Kole. She explores the messy, non-linear nature of grief, the importance of understanding triggers, setting boundaries, and creating rituals for healing. Whether you're grieving yourself or supporting someone through loss, this episode offers compassion, practical insights, and encouragement. Key Topics:   The unspoken realities of grief and the invisible weight of loss  How societal expectations often misunderstand the grieving process  The significance of triggers and how they affect healing  Practical tools for managing grief, including personalization of rituals  The importance of honest communication and boundary setting  The role of support systems, including one-on-one support and support groups  Self-compassion and patience in the journey toward healing  Creating new traditions and honoring loved ones' legacies  Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction: The silent struggles after loss and why understanding matters  03:22 - Reflecting on Kole's gifts and advocacy inspired by grief  04:35 - The unpredictable, non-linear nature of grief and societal misunderstandings  06:09 - Holidays and triggers: Finding new meaning and traditions  07:34 - Moments of emotional overwhelm and the social masks we wear  09:18 - The internal storm: sleepless nights, rage, guilt, and numbness  10:30 - Misunderstandings about grief and the importance of validation  11:22 - Specific triggers: songs, smells, and memories of loved ones  13:01 - The power of personal rituals and understanding triggers  14:38 - The legacy of loved ones and keeping their memory alive  15:45 - Manifestations of grief: anger, guilt, withdrawal, and changes in faith  16:02 - Communicating needs, setting boundaries, and avoiding pity  17:37 - The importance of creating personalized support systems and rituals  19:01 - Practical strategies: journaling, counseling, and support groups  20:23 - Self-compassion, patience, and giving yourself grace  22:04 - Navigating relationships after loss through clear communication  23:27 - Managing social interactions and setting healthy boundaries  25:00 - Reframing expectations of friends and support during grief  26:07 - Final takeaways: grief is personal, healing is non-linear  27:01 - Honoring your feelings, creating new life after loss, and resources for support Resources & Links:   Reflective Roots  Book: "On Grief and Grieving" by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross & David KesslerBook: Missing Pieces  Connect with Lori:   Facebook  Thank you for listening and for honoring your grief journey. Share this episode with someone who might need to hear these words. Remember, you’re not alone — your feelings are valid, and healing takes time.

    28 min

  7. Apr 2

    When the Mind Goes Quiet: Understanding Self-Harm, Suicide, and Military Mental Health

    In this heartfelt episode, Lori Kendall addresses the heavy but vital topics of self-harm, suicide, and the unique mental health challenges faced by the military community. She shares personal insights, offers compassionate guidance, and emphasizes the importance of community and connection in healing. Key Topics:  The emotional toll of military service and the silent struggles of service members The misconceptions surrounding self-harm and suicidal thoughts The impact of military culture on mental health, resilience, and vulnerability How to listen and support loved ones who are battling internal struggles Resources for mental health support, including the Brandon Act and crisis helplines The importance of community, honesty, and vulnerability in healing Personal story of loss and remembrance as a Gold Star parent Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction: Addressing grief and the importance of honest conversations  00:58 - Understanding the internal guilt and emotional struggles of motherhood and loss  01:54 - Clarifying the purpose of the podcast: questions, healing, not therapy  02:19 - Recognizing March as Self-Harm Awareness Month  03:17 - Inviting listeners into the conversation about self-harm and suicide  03:40 - The importance of compassion and truth in discussing invisible burdens  04:10 - Practical grounding exercise: breathing to stay present  05:33 - Misunderstandings about self-harm and what it signifies  06:03 - The roots of suicidal thoughts: overwhelm, trauma, isolation  06:56 - Military-specific issues: isolation, culture, and emotional suppression  08:06 - How military messages influence silence and emotional restraint   10:14 - The silence following loss and the hidden burdens of service members  11:49 - Celebrating the humanity and value of service members beyond their struggles  12:03 - The mental health crisis in the military and barriers to seeking help  12:46 - Transitional challenges and the “quiet” in the mind after service or injury  13:39 - Struggle as a response to pressure, not weakness, and the role of self-harm  14:07 - Suicidal thoughts as a sign of exhaustion, not desire to die  14:38 - A heartfelt message to those in darkness: you are not alone or beyond help  15:06 - The heartbreak of caring for loved ones in crisis and the importance of showing up  15:31 - The devastating myth: no one causes another’s suicide  16:26 - The power of inquiry: asking “How's your heart today?”  17:00 - The art of listening: presence over advice   18:32 - Reaching out to professionals as an act of courage  18:56 - The foundation and purpose of Reflective Roots and the Kole T. Kendall Anchored Navigation Project  19:21 - Conversations about mental health in military communities are essential  19:52 - Healing as a non-linear journey and community support  20:26 - The Brandon Act: empowering service members to seek help safely  21:23 - Closing message: your story and presence matter, stay rooted and human Resources & Links:  Brandon Act 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineReflective Roots Kole T. Kendall Anchored Navigation Project Connect with Lori Kendall: LinkedInFacebook

    24 min

  8. Mar 29

    Rediscovering Yourself in Life's Seasons

    Rediscovering Yourself in Life’s Seasons | Sunday Shoreline with Lori Kendall In this episode of Sunday Shoreline, Lori Kendall guides you through understanding and navigating the different seasons of life—whether you're rooted, blooming, thriving, or reshaping after loss. She offers practical tools to reconnect with your true self amid life's inevitable transitions. Key Topics:  Recognizing the season you're in—rooting, sprouting, thriving, or reshaping The importance of understanding your roots before growth Differentiating who you are from the roles you play during survival mode How to identify what environments nourish versus deplete your energy The power of naming your season and asking “what is this season asking of me?” Practical exercises: splitting identity into "who I’ve had to be" vs. "who I am underneath"  Using energy awareness to guide life shifts effectively Drawing significance from life’s upheavals by separating rubble from roots Reflecting on gratitude, boundaries, and what no longer serves you Embracing small, aligned steps toward change and wholeness The importance of honesty and self-compassion in personal growth Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to life's seasons and self-centering  01:03 - Understanding the significance of being present without rushing  02:07 - Differentiating between life before and after tragedy  02:36 - Recognizing disconnection and feelings of being lost  04:20 - How to identify your current season: rooting, sprouting, thriving  05:01 - The importance of inner work during rooting  05:57 - Moving through uncertainty and expansion  07:22 - Navigating fear and excitement about new beginnings  08:18 - Naming your season and disconnecting from survival identities  09:29 - Reflecting on who you are versus who you've had to be  10:06 - Examining your values beyond roles during success and survival  11:11 - The impact of work-life balance and valuing relationships  12:27 - Deep self-inquiry: truth-telling exercises  13:48 - Recognizing feelings of misalignment and loss of purpose  15:10 - Identifying nourishing versus depleting environments  16:36 - How to assess where you are performing authentically  17:28 - Using energy awareness to inform life direction  18:40 - Drawing from upheaval: rubble versus roots  19:22 - The process of starting anew from your truth  20:06 - Reflection questions: releasing, carrying forward, and discovering your essence  21:06 - Small steps: gratitude, boundaries, and alignment checks  22:13 - The power of honest self-reflection ("It makes sense that I feel this way because...")  22:47 - Encouragement to meet yourself with compassion and patience  23:09 - Announcing the upcoming book, Missing Pieces, about resilience and wholeness 23:38 - Final thoughts and closing encouragement Resources:  Missing Pieces: A Mother's Journey through Service, Sorrow, and Survival - Available on Amazon and at missingpiecesbook.com Real and Rooted Podcasts - Explore stories of healing and growth Connect with Lori Kendall:  FacebookReflective Roots Grief and Relationship Navigation Remember: Understanding your season is the key step towards true growth. You don’t need a complete plan—just one mindful step at a time. Meet yourself honestly, and what is deeply rooted will rise.

    25 min
See All (14)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Real & Rooted is a sanctuary for honest, heart‑level conversations where we explore grief, resilience, and the quiet strength that emerges when we tell the truth about our lives. It’s a grounded space for reflection, healing, and community — a place to feel seen, supported, and anchored as we grow toward a more wholehearted way of living. 

Information

  • Creator
    Lori
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Real & Rooted
  • Show Website
    Real & Rooted

You Might Also Like