Widow 180 The Podcast with Jen Zwinck

Jen Zwinck
  • 4.9 (86)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

When you become a widow, the heartache can be overwhelming. You feel lost. You feel broken. You feel alone. And you find yourself trying to pick up the pieces of your life and function. But I believe that every widow has the capacity to endure, that every widow has the power to overcome and the determination to create a new life filled with meaning and purpose. The Widow 180 Podcast is about turning tragedy, loss and fear into strength and creativity and a new passion for life. It's about self-reflection and realizing that we only have this one precious life to live and that a new life and a new you is achievable.Each week I will be interviewing widows, incredible survivors of loss. These women have taken the lessons they've learned and the insights they've gained and used them to grow and transform themselves. Some have started businesses, went back to school, run marathons, lost 100 pounds, and moved across the world! They made a choice not to be held down.How did they do it? How did they get through their grief? What's their secret? What lessons can we learn from them that will transform our own lives? How can we write our own story because our story isn't over yet? How can we begin our Chapter 2? I hope that you are as inspired by these women as I am. And maybe hearing even just one story will be life-changing for you.

  1. 6d ago

    274. Should I Take Off My Wedding Ring After Loss? Widow Roundtable #2 on Timing, Guilt & Moving Forward

    "When should I take off my wedding ring?" Most widows face this question at some point after loss. In this second roundtable discussion episode of Widow 180, three widows—Melissa, Tracy, and Danette—join the conversation to discuss the deeply personal decision of taking off a wedding ring after loss.  They each share their unique experiences: from moving their rings to different hands, repurposing them into new jewelry, keeping them as special keepsakes for family, to deciding when and how to take this significant step.  The discussion delves into feelings of guilt, societal expectations, handling others’ opinions, and the importance of doing what feels right for each individual.  Whether you’re wrestling with this decision yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers comfort, understanding, and practical ideas for navigating the path forward! Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927 Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/ Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com

    34 min

  2. Jun 4

    273. How Travel Helped Me Heal After Sudden Widowhood: Points, Miles & 9 Countries With My Kids - Interview with Tiffany Rampey

    "Choosing joy and seeking it has made my life truly joyful again... there's still so much life to live." ~Tiffany Rampey In this inspiring episode of Widow 180: The Podcast, fellow widow and world traveler, Tiffany Rampey joins us to explore how loss can become the catalyst for adventure, healing, and hope!  Tiffany shares her extraordinary journey through early widowhood, from the sudden loss of her husband in 2020 to packing up her two young children for an epic seven-month, nine-country adventure around the globe.  We discuss: ~ the therapeutic power of travel  ~the importance of community ~ how Tiffany’s “Widows in the Wild” group is helping women rediscover joy and camaraderie through group adventures! ~dating as a widowed mom! ~her expertise in using points and miles to make travel affordable and accessible for everyone, including practical tips for widows navigating credit card points after the loss of a spouse. Whether you’re new in grief or looking for inspiration to rewrite your next chapter, and explore the world, this episode is filled with honest reflection, actionable advice, and hope for what’s possible on the other side of pain. Connect with Tiffany Rampey: Instagram: @rebuildingjoyYouTube: Rebuilding Joy TravelWebsite and Courses: Rebuilding Joy TravelTo join the 60 Dyas Of Summer Healing Quest, click HERE: https://widow180.kit.com/healingquest Tune in and let Tiffany’s story remind you: travel and joy are still possible, even after unimaginable loss. To join our Widow 180 Roundtable Discussions click HERE: https://www.widow180.com/newsletter Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927 Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/ Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com

    53 min

  3. May 29

    272. How Diving Into Art And Publishing Her Late Husband's Book Is Helping This Widow Heal - Interview With Ksenia Merck

    "I've seen death in the face numerous times. I. I am going to do something going forward that is going to help people in a big way. And so I am. I am. I'm doing it." ~Ksenia Merck Ksenia Merck joins the show to share her powerful story of love, loss, caregiving, creativity, and renewal. After caring for her elderly mother until her passing and then losing her beloved husband Bill to cancer, Ksenia Merck found herself navigating profound compound grief and the search for healing. Through her journey, she discovered the transformative power of creativity and art. Listeners will be deeply moved by Ksenia Merck's reflections on “re-lifing” herself. She shares her experience of illustrating and publishing Bill’s unfinished novel "Ghost Flower," and her ongoing mission to build community and help others on the widowhood journey. This episode is full of wisdom, hope, and encouragement for anyone grieving or seeking new purpose after loss. Key takeaways: The traumatic experience of Bill’s sudden illness, ICU stays, and the couple’s recognition of shared PTSDThe inspiration and healing that came from illustrating and publishing "Ghost Flower," Bill’s final unfinished manuscriptFinding comfort and connection through creativity, especially in times of griefThe significance of honoring one’s own grief timeline and resisting outside pressure to “move on”Recognizing and appreciating signs from loved ones after their passing, especially through natureTrust yourself and your intuition to make the choices that feel right for you on your widowhood journey! You know what's best for YOU!You can find Ksenia and her book Ghost Flower at https://www.merckiipress.com/ksenia-merck Struggling with an identity crisis? Many widows find themselves wondering "Who Am I Now?" Get the latest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook series, The Who Am I Now? Workbook at www.widow180.com/whoaminow  Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927 Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/ Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com

    37 min

  4. May 20

    271. Surviving Black Sunday, Grief in the Public Eye, and Finding Hope After Tragedy - Interview With FDNY Widow And Author Eileen Bellew

    “Behind every heroic firefighter, there is a man that has many, many different lives that we should be honoring also.” – Eileen Bellew, FDNY widow We welcome Eileen Bellew, author of After John Jumped, for a deeply moving conversation about surviving profound loss, mothering through grief, and finding hope after tragedy.  Eileen recounts the heartbreaking events of January 23, 2005, known as Black Sunday, when her husband John, a dedicated FDNY firefighter, lost his life in the line of duty. She shares the agonizing hours of uncertainty, the moment she said goodbye, and the challenges of facing unimaginable PTSD with four young children. Navigating grief in the public eye, Eileen describes trying to protect her children’s innocence amidst intense media scrutiny, endless ceremonies, and the ongoing pain of public memorials.  She discusses the multi-layered aspects of widowhood—how it altered her very identity, changed her approach to motherhood, and left her grappling with PTSD, anxiety, and the daunting question: “How do I rebuild?” Key takeaways from this episode: There is no right way to handle tragedy or grief—every decision is raw and personal.Support often means simply sitting in the muck with someone, rather than trying to “fix” their pain.The loss of a spouse can mean losing parts of yourself, but over time healing and resilience do grow—even if it takes years.Remarriage is not a replacement but a new chapter. You can love again while holding your lost loved one close.Eileen's journey is also chronicled in her memoir, which began as a legacy for her kids and grew into a beacon for others facing similar paths.Learn more about Eileen Bellew, her book, After John Jumped, and the upcoming Black Sunday movie at eileenbellew.com. Get the "Who Am I Now?" Workbook to rediscover yourself after loss. Download it today at https://www.widow180.com/whoaminow Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927 Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/ Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com

    58 min

  5. May 13

    270. Why You Don't Recognize Yourself Anymore: Identity Lag In Widowhood

    Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Who am I now?”?  Today we dive deep into the concept of "identity lag"—the uncomfortable, confusing gap between who you were before losing your partner and who you are becoming.  Join us for these relatable stories and practical tips about why simple questions like “What do you want?” suddenly feel impossible to answer!  Unpack how grief isn’t just about missing your spouse—it’s also about missing a part of yourself. You’ll learn: What "identity lag" is and why it happens after lossHow intertwined relationships shape our sense of selfReal-life examples of how identity lag shows up in everyday decisionsThree actionable steps to begin closing the gap and rediscovering yourselfIf you’re feeling lost, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken!  Tune in for encouragement, empathy, and tools for moving forward in your healing journey. Don’t forget to check out the newest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook Series, the guided workbook, The “Who Am I Now?” Workbook. It's designed for widows and widowers navigating identity after loss. Go to https://www.widow180.com/whoaminow Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927 Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/ Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com

    16 min

  6. May 7

    269. "We Are In This Club That No One Wants To Be In" - Interview With It's Lifey Founder Jen Newberg

    Jen Newberg shares her journey through heart-wrenching loss, unexpected chaos abroad, and the path to healing through connection.  After a blended family, second marriage, and overcoming personal struggles, Jen  tragically lost her husband Jack while on a dream vacation in Greece. Grappling with grief, solo-parenting, and the shock of sudden loss far from home, she reveals the raw, real experiences that shaped her into the support beacon she is today. Listeners will hear how Jen began to rebuild her life—leaning into her recovery community, seeking out connection, and ultimately founding "It's Lifey," a dynamic project focused on retreats and support for widows.  She also shares about: ~ insights on loneliness ~the rollercoaster of grief ~the hard-won lessons of solo parenting. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the necessity of asking for help, and the unexpected ways life after loss can add depth and meaning. Key Themes & Takeaways Life-changing Loss Far From Home: Jen recounts losing her husband to a heart attack while abroad, grappling with unique logistical and emotional challenges.Navigating Early Grief: The need for a strong, supportive network and the experience of profound loneliness and chaos.Solo Parenting & Major Milestones: The challenges of managing teenage milestones, college planning, and household responsibilities alone.The Importance of Community: How connection—through recovery groups, family, and new friendships—eased the burden of grief.Launching "It's Lifey" and Hope Hub: Creating retreats, local events, and online spaces specifically for widows craving support, wellness, and community.Learning to Ask for Help: Why seeking support is a strength, not a weakness, and practical strategies for reaching out.Personal Growth Through Widowhood: Tools for coping with loneliness, setting boundaries, and rediscovering joy after loss.Inspiration for Moving Forward: Proof that healing isn’t linear, but transformation and happiness are possible—even after devastating loss.Learn more about upcoming retreats and resources at www.itslifey.com. Check out the Widow 180 Workbooks at https://www.widow180.com/workbooks Join the thousands of other who hear from us every week in our newsletter: https://www.widow180.com/newsletter Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927 Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/ Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com

    51 min

  7. Apr 29

    268. You're So Strong: Widow & Author Leslie Harter-Berg on Sudden Loss, Solo Parenting, Remarriage After Grief, and Finding Yourself Again!

    Leslie Harter Berg's entire world changed in a single instant. At just 30 years old, she became a widow with two grieving toddlers. In today's episode, Leslie shares the raw, unfiltered story of sudden loss, early widowhood, and the messy, beautiful journey of rebuilding a life.  She opens up about: ~the surreal experience of Ryan's aneurysm and stroke ~navigating solo parenthood while drowning in grief ~how denial actually helped her survive those brutal first months. ~her solo trip to New Zealand with her two toddlers  ~her shifting identity as a mother and as a woman ~grieving the version of yourself that only existed with your person  ~the insecurity that nobody warns you about after loss ~why the second year of widowhood can feel lonelier than the first ~how she met and married her now husband Saul ~the complexity of blending families while honoring her boys' late father ~the birth of her third son — a baby she calls "the glue of the family."! Leslie is also the founder of Vids for Wids, a nonprofit dedicated to sharing widow stories through video. She is also the author of her new memoir You're So Strong — a title that perfectly captures the complicated, funny, and exhausting expectations placed on grieving people! If you've ever been told you're so strong when what you really needed was someone to just say, this is awful — this episode is for you! Find more widow support in the Widow 180 Workbook Series at https://www.widow180.com/workbooks Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927 Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/ Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com

    1 hr

  8. Apr 21

    267. Why Do People Stop Calling After You Lose A Spouse? - And What Widows & Widowers Can Do About It!

    Why do friends and family stop calling, texting, or checking in after you've lost your spouse? While every grief journey is unique, so many widows and widowers experience the pain of disappearing support just a few months after their loss. What starts as an outpouring of sympathy, calls, texts, and casseroles too often fades into quiet and isolation. This period of time, known as “the grief desert,” is a time when the world moves on, but you are left still coping with immense loss. In this episode we talk about 3 practical and compassionate pieces of advice: Permission to Reach Out: It’s perfectly okay to make the first move! Grief often tricks us into thinking we’re a burden, but being specific about your needs can open doors and invite support back in!Find Your People: Seek out others who understand your experience,  like the Widow 180 Facebook group! Create Small Rituals & Routines: Small routines can help anchor you when everything else feels uncertain.Even though the quiet is overwhelming, you are not forgotten!  Whether you’re new to the Widow 180 community or have been on this journey for a while, this episode is a compassionate, real-world guide to navigating the loneliness of grief when outside support grows scarce.  Share this episode with someone who needs reassurance that they are not alone and that brighter days—though different—are still ahead! Get the Widow 180 Workbook, Overcoming Loneliness, here: https://www.widow180.com/loneliness Be sure to join our Facebook group, Widow 180 The Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/312036956454927 Also follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/widow_180/ Check us out on YouTube at Widow 180: The Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-DK_dl31qMilJ5cE6t9MVQ For more blog posts and resources go to www.widow180.com Questions? Email me at jen@widow180.com

    20 min
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About

When you become a widow, the heartache can be overwhelming. You feel lost. You feel broken. You feel alone. And you find yourself trying to pick up the pieces of your life and function. But I believe that every widow has the capacity to endure, that every widow has the power to overcome and the determination to create a new life filled with meaning and purpose. The Widow 180 Podcast is about turning tragedy, loss and fear into strength and creativity and a new passion for life. It's about self-reflection and realizing that we only have this one precious life to live and that a new life and a new you is achievable.Each week I will be interviewing widows, incredible survivors of loss. These women have taken the lessons they've learned and the insights they've gained and used them to grow and transform themselves. Some have started businesses, went back to school, run marathons, lost 100 pounds, and moved across the world! They made a choice not to be held down.How did they do it? How did they get through their grief? What's their secret? What lessons can we learn from them that will transform our own lives? How can we write our own story because our story isn't over yet? How can we begin our Chapter 2? I hope that you are as inspired by these women as I am. And maybe hearing even just one story will be life-changing for you.

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