Tendrils of Grief

In this episode, we sit down with Andrea, an author, poet, artist, book illustrator, and yoga practitioner who writes under the pen name Cheydrea. Andrea’s journey is one of brave authenticity, deep healing, and passionate storytelling. From her 15+ year journey of religious deconstruction to healing her inner child and navigating family estrangement, Andrea candidly shares her experiences and lessons learned along the way. Andrea’s passions extend to fostering healthy and sustainable relationships, including a 28+ year marriage shaped by religious and childhood trauma, as well as meaningful friendships with women. She also opens up about her writing and publishing process, her indie-author journey, and her latest book, A Poet’s Playground. Join us as Andrea dives into the stories, struggles, and triumphs that have shaped her life. Together, we explore topics like the power of vulnerability, her personal growth in health and healing, and how she uses art and words to inspire and empower women. Episode Highlights * Andrea Cheydrea * Religious deconstruction journey * Healing from childhood trauma * Inner-child healing stories * Family estrangement recovery * Healthy and sustainable relationships * Marriage and religious trauma * Writing and publishing process * Indie author journey * A Poet’s Playground by Andrea * Women’s empowerment through writing * Bravely sharing personal stories * Mindful healing through yoga and art * Emotional healing and storytelling * Building meaningful female friendships * The Power of Vulnerability in Healing Relationships * Religious Deconstruction: Reclaiming Identity Beyond Faith * How Inner-Child Healing Transforms Adult Relationships * Finding Strength Through Family Estrangement * Art as a Healing Tool: A Poet’s Journey * Marriage Beyond Trauma: 28+ Years of Growth and Healing * Navigating the Indie Author World: A Journey to A Poet’s Playground * Embracing Authenticity: A Path to Personal Evolution * Yoga, Art, and Writing: Tools for Emotional Healing * Supporting Women in Their Healing and Writing Journeys * Balancing Vulnerability and Strength in Modern Relationships * How Stories of Transformation Inspire Global Conversations * Creating Healthy Friendships Among Women * The Role of Poetry in Emotional and Spiritual Healing * How Sharing Personal Stories Empowers Others to Heal   Learn more about Andrea  Visit her website www.cheydrea.com [http://www.cheydrea.com/] Did you enjoy today’s episode?   Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email  susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Don’t forget to visit Tendrils Of Grief [https://www.tendrilsofgrief.com/]  website and join for upcoming Webinars, Podcasts Updates and Group Coaching.   Get involve and share your thoughts and experiences in our online community   Tendrils of Grief-Survivor of Loss [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2708675396071194]   To subscribe and review use one links of the links below  Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Tendrils-of-Grief/dp/B08K584Y7M] Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/id1504765728] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3l0mutQR5aMF2WadITscPV] Audacy [https://www.audacy.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief-36147] Deezer [https://www.deezer.com/en/show/1006722] Podcast Addict [https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/2794997] Pandora [https://www.pandora.com/] Rephonic [https://rephonic.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief] Tune In [https://tunein.com/podcasts/Health--Wellness-Podcasts/Tendrils-of-Grief-p1309127/]   Connect with me Instagram: @Sue_ways [https://www.instagram.com/sueways/] Facebook:@ susan.ways [https://www.facebook.com/susan.ways] Email @susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Let me hear your thoughts!

In today's episode Julie Fingersh, an accomplished writer and freelance journalist with a knack for exploring the intricacies of life. Through her essays, editorials, and reporting, Julie dives into topics like culture, wellness, relationships, and parenting adult children—all while offering insights on how to lead a better, more meaningful life. Her work has graced the pages of The New York Times, Oprah Magazine, The Huffington Post, The San Francisco Chronicle, and The Miami Herald, to name a few. Julie's current blog is a midlife sequel to her award-winning humor column she wrote in her twenties for Billboard Publications. Living in Marin County, California, with her husband and cherishing her role as a mother of two adult children, Julie brings humor, wisdom, and authenticity to her storytelling. Join us as we explore her journey, writing career, and reflections on life's beautiful messiness.   Episode Highlights * Midlife writing journey * Parenting adult children * Freelance journalism tips * Leading a better life through writing * Julie Fingersh articles * Personal essays and storytelling * Relationships in midlife * Parenting challenges with grown kids * Humor in life writing * Wellness and lifestyle articles * Writing for major publications * Culture and relationships writer * Personal growth through storytelling * Writing for The New York Times and Oprah Magazine * The art of personal essays: Finding your voice through storytelling. * Parenting adult children: Navigating relationships as they grow. * Midlife reinvention: Exploring the next chapter through creativity. * Wellness and lifestyle writing: Sharing tips for leading a better life. * Freelance journalism in 2024: Breaking into major publications. * The impact of humor in writing: Connecting with audiences authentically. * Balancing family and career as a writer. * The rise of personal blogs: Creating connections in the digital age. * The evolving role of culture in storytelling. * Writing for impact: How personal stories shape societal conversations.   Learn more about Julie Fingerish Read more about Julie and her work at juliefingersh.com [https://www.juliefingersh.com/].   To receive a review copy, or to schedule an interview, please contact: Heather Huzovic, 646.972.0033 or heather.huzovic@gmail.com [heather.huzovic@gmail.com] Did you enjoy today’s episode?   Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email  susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Don’t forget to visit Tendrils Of Grief [https://www.tendrilsofgrief.com/]  website and join for upcoming Webinars, Podcasts Updates and Group Coaching.   Get involve and share your thoughts and experiences in our online community   Tendrils of Grief-Survivor of Loss [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2708675396071194]   To subscribe and review use one links of the links below  Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Tendrils-of-Grief/dp/B08K584Y7M] Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/id1504765728] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3l0mutQR5aMF2WadITscPV] Audacy [https://www.audacy.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief-36147] Deezer [https://www.deezer.com/en/show/1006722] Podcast Addict [https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/2794997] Pandora [https://www.pandora.com/] Rephonic [https://rephonic.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief] Tune In [https://tunein.com/podcasts/Health--Wellness-Podcasts/Tendrils-of-Grief-p1309127/]   Connect with me Instagram: @Sue_ways [https://www.instagram.com/sueways/] Facebook:@ susan.ways [https://www.facebook.com/susan.ways] Email @susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Let me hear your thoughts!

Meet Rhonda Linn, a writer, poet, and entrepreneur who is deeply connected to the rhythms of nature. Over the past 11 years, Rhonda has been slowly cultivating a food forest on 36 acres in Michigan, transforming her land into a thriving sanctuary of seasonal living. Through her Substack, Earthen Jar; Stars, she inspires readers to reimagine a world cradled by nature’s beauty—embracing both the magic and the muck of everyday life. This fall, Rhonda’s first poetry book, The Chapel of Small Breath, is set to be published, offering readers a heartfelt glimpse into her reflections on life and the natural world. But that’s not all—Rhonda is also the founder of a marketing agency that supports holistic wellness, nature-based, and spiritual businesses through Virtual Assistant, Online Business Management, and Copywriting services. A former educator, Rhonda left teaching in 2020 to pursue her passions full-time, quickly building a thriving business that aligns with her values. Rhonda is on a mission to help others connect with their natural rhythms, embrace seasonal living, and find joy, ease, and purpose in their personal and professional lives. She believes wholeheartedly in building a better, more connected world—and is here to show us that it’s possible.   Episode Highlights * The Rise of Seasonal Living * Food Forest Movement * Homesteading in the Modern Era * Nature-Inspired Poetry * Holistic Marketing Trends * Spiritual Entrepreneurship * Virtual Assistance for Nature-Based Businesses * Sustainable Practices for Entrepreneurs * Mindful Business Strategies * Publishing Poetry in a Digital World   Learn more about Rhonda Linn LINKS: https://rhondalinn.substack.com/ [https://rhondalinn.substack.com/]https://rhondalinn.com [https://rhondalinn.com/]https://www.facebook.com/rhonda.linn.3 [https://www.facebook.com/rhonda.linn.3]https://www.instagram.com/rhonda.m.linn/ [https://www.instagram.com/rhonda.m.linn/]https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhondalinnvirtualsolutions/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhondalinnvirtualsolutions/] Did you enjoy today’s episode?   Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email  susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Don’t forget to visit Tendrils Of Grief [https://www.tendrilsofgrief.com/]  website and join for upcoming Webinars, Podcasts Updates and Group Coaching.   Get involve and share your thoughts and experiences in our online community   Tendrils of Grief-Survivor of Loss [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2708675396071194]   To subscribe and review use one links of the links below  Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Tendrils-of-Grief/dp/B08K584Y7M] Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/id1504765728] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3l0mutQR5aMF2WadITscPV] Audacy [https://www.audacy.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief-36147] Deezer [https://www.deezer.com/en/show/1006722] Podcast Addict [https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/2794997] Pandora [https://www.pandora.com/] Rephonic [https://rephonic.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief] Tune In [https://tunein.com/podcasts/Health--Wellness-Podcasts/Tendrils-of-Grief-p1309127/]   Connect with me Instagram: @Sue_ways [https://www.instagram.com/sueways/] Facebook:@ susan.ways [https://www.facebook.com/susan.ways] Email @susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Let me hear your thoughts!

In this episode of the Tendrils of Grief podcast, we are joined by the incredible Kisha Washington, a powerhouse in the culinary world and a passionate mental health advocate. Kisha is the Executive Chef, Owner, and Founder of TheKeyIngredient, LLC, a personal and private chef business providing upscale dining experiences in the comfort of clients' homes. She is also the visionary behind the nonprofit Cookzcreed Foundation, dedicated to supporting chefs and hospitality professionals with scholarships, mental health and substance abuse resources, and mentorship. Kisha’s journey is as inspiring as her accolades, which include being a self-published author of Cultivating Healthy Minds: A Guide To Mental Health Resources Volume 1, a 7-time Top 10 winner at The World Food Championships, and a champion in various culinary competitions. She has graced TV screens on Fakers vs. Bakers and Plate It Baltimore, and her impressive affiliations include being a James Beard Foundation Legacy Network alum, a member of the Mental Health Hospitality Coalition, and an advocate with the AFSP Virginia Chapter. In this heartfelt conversation, Kisha opens up about her passion for mental health advocacy, her journey through the culinary world, and the powerful ways she’s helping others thrive both in the kitchen and in life. Join us as Kisha shares her story of resilience, creativity, and a relentless commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. This episode is one you won’t want to miss!   Episode Highlights * Private chef services * Upscale private dining * Personal chef business * Cookzcreed Foundation * Mental health advocacy in the culinary world * Substance abuse resources for chefs * Mental health in the hospitality industry * Scholarships for chefs and hospitality professionals * Culinary mentorship programs * Competition chef accomplishments * Mental health resources for chefs * Kisha Washington chef * World Food Championships winner * Cultivating Healthy Minds book * Suicide prevention in the culinary world * Understanding burnout and depression * Hospitality industry mental health support * James Beard Foundation Legacy Network alum * Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training * Culinary Fight Club champion * Culinary mental health advocate   Learn more about Yvonne Caputo LINKS: https://www.instagram.com/chefkish_dyan?igsh=MTlwZ3VrN2t6NGUyNQ== [https://www.instagram.com/chefkish_dyan?igsh=MTlwZ3VrN2t6NGUyNQ==]   https://www.instagram.com/cookzcreedfoundation?igsh=bDE5cnh6cDlsOWk4 [https://www.instagram.com/cookzcreedfoundation?igsh=bDE5cnh6cDlsOWk4]   https://www.facebook.com/kisha.washington.773?mibextid=ZbWKwL [https://www.facebook.com/kisha.washington.773?mibextid=ZbWKwL]   Cultivating Healthy Minds: A Guide To Mental Health Resources Volume 1 For Chefs and Hospitality Individuals https://a.co/d/6purQvN [https://a.co/d/6purQvN] Did you enjoy today’s episode?   Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email  susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Don’t forget to visit Tendrils Of Grief [https://www.tendrilsofgrief.com/]  website and join for upcoming Webinars, Podcasts Updates and Group Coaching.   Get involve and share your thoughts and experiences in our online community   Tendrils of Grief-Survivor of Loss [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2708675396071194]   To subscribe and review use one links of the links below  Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Tendrils-of-Grief/dp/B08K584Y7M] Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/id1504765728] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3l0mutQR5aMF2WadITscPV] Audacy [https://www.audacy.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief-36147] Deezer [https://www.deezer.com/en/show/1006722] Podcast Addict [https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/2794997] Pandora [https://www.pandora.com/] Rephonic [https://rephonic.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief] Tune In [https://tunein.com/podcasts/Health--Wellness-Podcasts/Tendrils-of-Grief-p1309127/]   Connect with me Instagram: @Sue_ways [https://www.instagram.com/sueways/] Facebook:@ susan.ways [https://www.facebook.com/susan.ways] Email @susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Let me hear your thoughts!

In today’s episode, we are joined by the inspiring Yvonne Caputo, a woman whose journey has spanned roles as a teacher, psychotherapist, corporate trainer, and Vice President of Human Resources. With a master’s degree in education and clinical psychology, Yvonne has spent her life connecting with others through her powerful storytelling – from expanding young minds in the classroom to helping clients work through life’s toughest moments. Yvonne is the author of Flying with Dad, a heartfelt memoir that explores her relationship with her father through the lens of his World War II stories. In her second book, Dying with Dad, she shares the emotional journey of having difficult conversations with her father about his end-of-life wishes. Her storytelling brings these deeply personal experiences to life, resonating with readers and audiences alike. Join us as Yvonne shares her wisdom on family, connection, and the importance of open, honest conversations. She reminds us of the power of storytelling to heal, inspire, and bridge gaps, even across generations. This episode is sure to touch your heart and broaden your perspective on family relationships, life, and legacy.   Episode Highlights * Yvonne Caputo * Flying with Dad book * Dying with Dad book * World War II stories * Father-daughter relationship * Family legacy and storytelling * End-of-life conversations * Emotional healing through storytelling * Navigating grief and loss * Power of storytelling in relationships * Open conversations about death * Family dynamics and communication * Teacher and psychotherapist insights * Personal growth through family stories * Impact of storytelling on mental health * Yvonne Caputo podcast interview * World War II memories and family legacy * Yvonne Caputo speaker and presenter * Family stories and intergenerational bonds * Coping with grief and family loss * The Power of Storytelling in Healing and Connection * Conversations on Death and End-of-Life Planning * Navigating Family Relationships Through Tough Conversations * Lessons from World War II: Family Stories That Bridge Generations * The Role of Storytelling in Mental Health and Emotional Growth * Creating a Family Legacy Through Shared Experiences * How End-of-Life Conversations Can Bring Families Closer * Exploring Father-Daughter Bonds Through Life Stories * Embracing Vulnerability in Family Relationships * The Importance of Discussing Death and Legacy with Loved Ones * Storytelling as a Tool for Healing in Grief and Loss * Honoring Parents' Legacies Through Written Memories * Family Dynamics and the Challenges of Communication * Exploring History Through Personal Family Stories * Psychotherapy Insights on Family and Loss   Learn more about Yvonne Caputo LINKS: Book :        https://ingeniumbooks.com/yvonne-caputo/ [https://ingeniumbooks.com/yvonne-caputo/] LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-caputo-1449137/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonne-caputo-1449137/] Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/xcskiyvonne [https://www.facebook.com/xcskiyvonne] Did you enjoy today’s episode?   Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email  susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Don’t forget to visit Tendrils Of Grief [https://www.tendrilsofgrief.com/]  website and join for upcoming Webinars, Podcasts Updates and Group Coaching.   Get involve and share your thoughts and experiences in our online community   Tendrils of Grief-Survivor of Loss [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2708675396071194]   To subscribe and review use one links of the links below  Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Tendrils-of-Grief/dp/B08K584Y7M] Apple [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/id1504765728] Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3l0mutQR5aMF2WadITscPV] Audacy [https://www.audacy.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief-36147] Deezer [https://www.deezer.com/en/show/1006722] Podcast Addict [https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/tendrils-of-grief/2794997] Pandora [https://www.pandora.com/] Rephonic [https://rephonic.com/podcasts/tendrils-of-grief] Tune In [https://tunein.com/podcasts/Health--Wellness-Podcasts/Tendrils-of-Grief-p1309127/]   Connect with me Instagram: @Sue_ways [https://www.instagram.com/sueways/] Facebook:@ susan.ways [https://www.facebook.com/susan.ways] Email @susan@tendrilsofgrief.com   Let me hear your thoughts!