Tendrils of Grief

What To Do When Your Faith Isn't Enough

I sit down with Rev. Kate J. Meyer, LPC—an ordained minister, licensed professional counselor, hospice professional, and acclaimed author—whose life's work is dedicated to bringing grief out of the shadows and helping people move through loss with honesty, compassion, and faith. Drawing from decades of experience in hospice care, private practice, and spiritual counseling, Kate offers deeply grounded insights into the emotional, spiritual, and psychological realities of grief. She shares why so many grievers feel unseen or misunderstood within their faith communities, how spirituality can be both a comfort and a complication after loss, and why honoring your grief—not rushing or minimizing it—is essential for true healing. Together, Kate and I explore: * What healthy grief really looks like * Why faith doesn't erase pain—and why it shouldn't be expected to * The difference between distraction and avoidance * How grief evolves over time and becomes a lifelong companion * Spiritual signs, continued bonds, and the unseen ways our loved ones remain close * The deeply human experience of grief through the lens of hospice work * How to navigate guilt, loneliness, overwhelming emotions, and those "grief waves" that resurface years later * The importance of choosing carefully who you share your grief with—and who you don't This conversation is filled with wisdom, spiritual reflection, emotional validation, and practical tools for anyone walking through loss—whether you're in the early days of grief or decades into your healing journey. If you've ever wondered, "Am I grieving wrong?" or "Why does this still hurt so much?"—this episode is a gentle reminder that grief doesn't disappear. It changes shape, it grows with us, and healing is never about forgetting… it's about learning how to carry love forward. Episode Highlights * Rev. Kate J. Meyer * grief and faith * Christian grief counseling * spiritual grief healing * healthy grieving process * grief and spirituality * hospice grief insights * navigating grief and loss * emotional healing after loss * Christian counselor grief * complicated grief support * understanding grief waves * lifelong grief journey * grief validation and support * mental health and grief * faith-based grief support * grief and emotional wellness * spiritual signs after death * continued bonds in grief * grief conversations 2025 Know Rev. Kate J Meyer, LPC Faith Doesn't Erase Grief , The Red Couch, and The Yellow Dress are available at bookshop.org [http://bookshop.org/] and wherever books are sold Subscribe at: www.katejmeyer.com [http://www.katejmeyer.com/] Did you enjoy today's episode? Welcome to New Ways Barre. We are so glad you are here. Get ready to transform your body, mind and life. At New Ways Barre, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive community where individuals can achieve holistic well-being. 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!

Change Your Mind and Change Your Life

We sit down with Zoilita Grant, a transformational mindset expert with over 50 years of experience in subconscious reprogramming, hypnosis, and personal development. Zoilita has helped thousands of people break free from old patterns, release fear, and step into a life of clarity, confidence, and purpose. Known for her grounded, heart-centered approach, Zoilita blends science-backed techniques, hypnosis for healing, and mindset transformation tools that empower individuals to create real, lasting change. Her message is simple yet profound: everything you need to transform your life is already within you. In this conversation, Zoilita shares practical strategies for rewiring limiting beliefs, releasing emotional blocks, and shifting from survival mode to inner freedom. Whether you're navigating grief, self-doubt, anxiety, or a major life transition, her insights illuminate a path toward healing and self-empowerment. If you're curious about subconscious healing, neuroscience-based mindset shifts, hypnosis for trauma recovery, or how to unlock your own brilliance, this episode is a must-listen. Episode Highlights * subconscious reprogramming techniques * hypnosis for healing trauma * mindset transformation tools * emotional healing through hypnosis * break free from limiting beliefs * personal development expert 2025 * rewire the subconscious mind * overcoming fear and self-doubt * healing from emotional blocks * inner transformation practices * trauma recovery and mindset work * self-empowerment strategies * holistic mental wellness 2025 * neuroscience of mindset change * transformational coaching methods * confidence and clarity building * subconscious mind healing * mindset coach podcast interview * inner peace and emotional freedom * mental wellness through hypnosis Know Zoilita Grant Website https://zoilitagrant.com [https://zoilitagrant.com/] https://mindset-for-success.org/ [https://mindset-for-success.org/]Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/1765045683746989 [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1765045683746989] LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoilitagrant/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoilitagrant/] 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!

What To Do When Grief Causes an Existential Crisis

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!

My Husband Survived a Fiery Plane Crash – Belief in Possibilities

In this deeply moving episode of Tendrils of Grief, host Susan Waze speaks with Jenny Brandemuehl, author of Forever Fly Free: A Memoir of Love, Trauma, and Resilience. Jenny opens her heart to share the incredible true story of how her husband survived — and ultimately succumbed to — a fiery plane crash that forever changed her life. A former Silicon Valley executive turned author and mental health advocate, Jenny reflects on the power of love, intuition, and healing after unimaginable loss. She shares how she transformed her grief into gratitude, found meaning through synchronicities, and rediscovered joy with her new partner — all while honoring her late husband's legacy. In this episode, you'll learn: * How to navigate trauma and grief through love and inner strength * The role of intuition and synchronicity in healing * Why vulnerability and community are vital for recovery * How Jenny turned her pain into purpose through writing and advocacy Jenny's story is a testament to resilience, reminding us that hope isn't about expectation — it's a belief in possibilities.Learn more about Jenny's memoir, Forever Fly Free, and how proceeds support the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. Episode Highlights * grief recovery podcast * healing after loss * trauma healing stories * widowhood and resilience * intuitive healing * grief and love * emotional healing journey * mental health awareness * inspirational women authors * overcoming tragedy Know Jenny Brandemuehl Website: https://www.foreverflyfree.com/ [https://www.foreverflyfree.com/] Instagram: www.instagram.com/jemuehle [http://www.instagram.com/jemuehle] Substack: https://jennybrandemuehl.substack.com [https://jennybrandemuehl.substack.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-brandemuehl-49b409/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-brandemuehl-49b409/] Did you enjoy today's episode? Welcome to New Ways Barre. We are so glad you are here. Get ready to transform your body, mind and life. At New Ways Barre, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive community where individuals can achieve holistic well-being. 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!

Can Grief Make A Child Gay – The Ties Between Loss and Truth

We welcome Heather Hester — LGBTQ+ advocate, coach, author of Parenting with Pride, and host of More Human. More Kind. Together, they explore the intersection of grief, identity, parenting, and unconditional love, offering hope and understanding for families navigating similar journeys. In this episode I open up about my own experience supporting my child, Max, who came out as transgender after the loss of their father. Dive in as Heather offers compassionate insights into how grief and identity transformation often intertwine, what parents can do to support their LGBTQ+ children, and how to move from fear to fierce, informed love with clarity and courage. Listeners will gain heartfelt lessons on: * The connection between grief and self-discovery * How parents can embrace change with empathy and openness * Creating safe spaces for authentic expression and healing * Letting go of expectations and finding peace in the unknown This episode is a must-listen for parents, allies, and anyone seeking to better understand the evolving landscape of identity, grief, and love. Heather and Susan remind us that kindness and belonging aren't just emotions — they're practices that can transform pain into connection and compassion. Episode Highlights * grief and identity * parenting LGBTQ+ children * grief and gender identity * trans youth support * parenting through grief * Heather Hester podcast * More Human More Kind * Parenting with Pride book * grief podcast 2025 * LGBTQ+ parenting * emotional healing after loss * supporting transgender child * grief and transformation * self-compassion and acceptance Know Heather Hester LinkedIn Heather Hester [https://www.linkedin.com/in/hhchrysalismama/overlay/about-this-profile/] Website [https://www.morehumanmorekind.com/] Did you enjoy today's episode? Welcome to New Ways Barre. We are so glad you are here. Get ready to transform your body, mind and life. At New Ways Barre, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive community where individuals can achieve holistic well-being. 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!