Widowed 2 Soon; Advice on Faith, Mental Health, and Dating Again - podcast cover

Widowed 2 Soon; Advice on Faith, Mental Health, and Dating Again

Widowed 2 Soonwww.widowgoals.org
Widow Michelle and widower Mark share their insights, stories, and how they survive being widowed with young children and teens.
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Episodes

182-Sleep Solutions for Widows: Expert Tips From Dr. Vickie Kasper

In this insightful episode of Widowed 2 Soon, host Michelle Bader Ebersole welcomes special guest Dr. Vickie Kasper, a board-certified lifestyle medicine physician and OB-GYN with over 5,000 babies delivered. Vickie brings a uniquely valuable perspective on grief and widowhood, as she is married to a widower. Michelle and Dr. Kasper delve deeply into one of the most common yet challenging issues for those who've lost a spouse—sleep struggles. Listen in as Vickie shares heartfelt insights from he...

Jul 01, 202544 min

181-Dreaming Bigger for Widows: Church Support, Resources, and Community Connection

In this deeply personal solo episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole invites you into her world five years after the loss of her husband, Luke. With honesty and vulnerability, she shares what it’s like to walk through grief in real time—navigating Father’s Day triggers, solo parenting challenges, moments of rejection, and the ache of loneliness. Through it all, Michelle reveals how her faith, prayer life, and community continue to sustain her. She also shares the powerful ripple...

Jun 23, 202530 min

180- A Widower at 23- With Weston Brandon

In this powerful episode of Widowed 2 Soon, host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with special guest Weston Brandon, a young widower from Utah whose story will resonate with anyone navigating life after the death of a spouse. Weston shares his deeply personal journey of love, loss, and rebuilding after his wife Lauren’s sudden passing just two weeks after the birth of their son—a story that will touch your heart and inspire hope. From coping with grief at just 23 years old to raising a prematur...

Jun 17, 20251 hr 29 min

179- From ICU to Advocacy: A Widow’s Mission with Kelli McQuesten

In this heartfelt episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with special guest Kelli McQuesten, whose remarkable journey weaves together love, unexpected loss, and the healing power of purpose. Kelli shares her story of blending families, the devastating loss of her husband Matt just after moving into their dream home, and the painful task of helping her children process such a profound tragedy. Now both a widow and a passionate advocate for organ donation, Kelli offers ...

Jun 12, 20251 hr 4 min

178-Widowed in South Africa: Trusting God After the Unthinkable with Takie Pearl

A Widow’s Journey from Grief to Grace with Takie from South Africa In this powerful episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with special guest Takie from Johannesburg, South Africa, to share her extraordinary story of love, loss, and unshakable faith. Takie opens up about meeting her late husband through their shared faith, the beautiful life they built together, and the devastating moment he was suddenly taken from her. Together, Michelle and Takie explore the raw rea...

May 27, 20251 hr 1 min

Bonus Episode- Steps To Finding Peace

Today, May 23, 2025, is the 5-year anniversary of my husband Luke's death. I honor him by releasing my book, Widow Goals: Steps to Finding Peace When You Lose Your Spouse. Please consider purchasing this book for yourself or a widowed friend. It would mean the world to me! Thank you! Link to my book https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F6L21K26

May 23, 202514 min

177- 5 Years Widowed- Reflections on What I Have Learned with Michelle Bader Ebersole

In this deeply personal solo episode of Widowed 2 Soon, host Michelle Bader Ebersole reflects on the profound journey of widowhood, marking the five-year anniversary of her late husband Luke’s passing. Michelle opens up about those agonizing early days, the moment Luke died, and the raw emotions she and her children experienced in the aftermath. She shares heartfelt excerpts from her new book, Widow Goals: Steps to Finding Peace When You Lose Your Spouse , which launches on the anniversary of Lu...

May 20, 202549 min

176-Navigating Solo Fatherhood and Grief with Mathew Bradley of the Solo Dad Podcast

In this powerful episode of Widowed 2 Soon, host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with Mathew Bradley, host of the Solo Dad Podcast and a respected voice in the widower community. Together, they share a deeply honest conversation about grieving the loss of a spouse, single parenting, and rebuilding life after losing a partner to cancer. Michelle and Mathew open up about their personal widowhood journeys—how they met their late spouses, the heartbreak of saying goodbye, and the raw reality of pa...

May 13, 20251 hr 24 min

175- Addressing Sugar Addiction and Emotional Health in Widowhood: A Conversation with Christine Trimp

On this episode of Widowed 2 Soon , Michelle Bader Ebersole talks with Christine Trimp, author of Sugar Freed: Stop Losing the Weight Loss Battle, Start Gaining Victory . Christine shares her inspiring 100-pound weight loss journey, how she overcame sugar addiction, and her mission to help women embrace health and healing through a faith-based, holistic approach. They dive into the emotional and physical challenges of grief, the connection between sugar, mental health, and healing, and how faith...

Apr 29, 202548 min

174-What Helped Me Survive Widowhood—One Chapter at a Time

In this heartfelt episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole opens up about her journey nearly five years after the loss of her husband, Luke. With honesty, warmth, and deep empathy, she shares personal updates, reflections on healing, and encouragement for anyone walking through the valley of grief. Michelle also gives listeners an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at her upcoming book, Widow Goals: Steps to Finding Peace When You Lose Your Spouse . She reveals the heart behind the...

Apr 22, 202537 min

173-Love, Loss & Lasting Faith: Edith Tave's Inspiring Story of Resilience in Widowhood

​In this deeply moving episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole welcomes Edith Taves, who shares her poignant journey through love, loss, and unwavering faith. Edith recounts meeting her late husband, Greg, on a Christian dating site and how their long-distance relationship blossomed despite significant challenges—including Greg’s serious medical diagnosis. Their story is a testament to enduring love and trust in God’s plan.​ Following Greg’s passing from cancer, Edith opens up a...

Apr 15, 20251 hr 36 min

You Are Invited To Join My Book Launch Team!

Join the Widow Goals Book Launch Team! This book is a guide to help widows find hope and peace after loss—and I’m looking for a team of women (and men!) who believe in this message and want to help spread the word. As a member of the Launch Team, you’ll get - early digital access to the book. Join a private Facebook group or email chain with behind-the-scenes updates Receive promotional graphics and easy-to-share content Help post, review, and share about the book around launch week Be part of s...

Apr 10, 20252 min

172-Finding Purpose in Widowhood with Jennifer Newberg

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with Jennifer Newberg, who courageously shares her story of love, loss, and healing. Jennifer recounts the unimaginable—losing her husband Jack during what was supposed to be a dream trip to Greece. She takes us through the shock of navigating an unfamiliar country’s legal system while grappling with overwhelming grief and the challenge of bringing him home. But Jennifer’s journey doesn’t stop there...

Apr 08, 20251 hr 22 min

171-Finding New Purpose: Evelyn Johnson Taylor's Journey of Faith and Widowhood

In this episode, host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with Evelyn Johnson Taylor to explore her inspiring journey through widowhood, faith, and rediscovering identity. Evelyn shares her personal story of meeting her late husband, Scott, over the phone and the life they built together. Despite Scott's years-long battle with illness, Evelyn's faith remained unwavering. She opens up about the challenges and growth that come with transitioning into life as a widow and finding purpose beyond caregi...

Apr 01, 202558 min

170- The Top 5 Things That Helped Me Heal

In this touching episode of Widowed 2 Soon, host Michelle Bader Ebersole takes listeners on a journey through her recent adventures in Mexico and reflects on the significance of her two-year anniversary with Joel. As she transitions from personal stories to powerful insights, Michelle shares the five most transformative steps that have helped her heal and grow as a widow. From discovering new hobbies and seeking wisdom through counseling and literature to finding deep comfort in faith and commun...

Mar 25, 202545 min

169-A Widow's Journey of Hope and Healing with Special Guest Tania Lorenzo

In the latest episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole welcomes Tania Lozano to share her powerful story of love, resilience, and faith. Tania opens up about meeting her late husband, Miguel, during their early retail days, growing together through life’s challenges, and the deep bond they shared. Listeners will be taken on an emotional journey—from their unexpected first encounter and enduring love story to the heartbreaking moment of Miguel’s cancer diagnosis and their courageo...

Mar 18, 20251 hr 37 min

168-Navigating Loss, Identity, and Financial Planning with Special Guest Daniel Kopp

In this heartfelt episode of Widowed 2 Soon , Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with Daniel Kopp, a young widower who courageously shares his journey through love, loss, and the unexpected path to new beginnings. Daniel opens up about his deep bond with his late wife, Sarah, the challenges they faced during her health struggles, and the profound impact of her passing in 2017. Through faith, community, and resilience, he found a way to navigate the depths of grief—eventually discovering love agai...

Mar 11, 20251 hr 5 min

167-Christine Oduor's Journey from Widowhood to Widows Advocate

In this heartfelt episode of "Widowed 2 Soon," host Michelle Bader Ebersole welcomes Christine Odour, hailing from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to share her poignant journey of loss and resilience. From the unexpected diagnosis of her late husband, Kefa, and the subsequent challenges of caregiving, to navigating life as a widow while raising their two sons, Christine's story is a testament to the enduring power of hope and healing. Christine opens up about the deep bond she shared with Kefa, their ...

Mar 04, 20251 hr 31 min

166- Answering Widows Frequently Asked Questions

In this heartfelt episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole opens up about life after loss, sharing personal updates and practical wisdom for widows and widowers navigating their unique journeys. As she approaches two years of marriage with Joel after the passing of her first husband, Luke, Michelle reflects on balancing love, grief, and embracing a new normal. Through candid storytelling and thoughtful advice, she answers frequently asked questions about healing, dating after los...

Feb 25, 202545 min

165-Rebuilding Life After Suicide Loss: Shelley Bates' Journey Through Grief and Healing

In this powerful episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole welcomes special guest Shelley Bates for an honest and heartfelt conversation about love, loss, and healing after the sudden death of a spouse to suicide. Shelley courageously shares her journey—from meeting her late husband, Lyle, to navigating life with his bipolar disorder, and the emotional aftermath of his unexpected passing. This deeply moving discussion touches on the complexities of grief, the weight of family resp...

Feb 18, 20251 hr 17 min

164-From Mourning to Mission: Kathryn Monaco-Douglas' Journey of Hope

In this heartfelt episode of Widowed 2 Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole welcomes Kathryn Monaco-Douglas to share her powerful story of resilience, faith, and transformation after the unexpected loss of her husband, Larry. Kathryn opens up about the challenges she faced as a widow raising three children and the pivotal moments that shaped her healing journey. Together, they explore the crucial role of faith, support systems, and community in navigating grief. Kathryn's story is one of turning ...

Feb 11, 20251 hr 4 min

163- How to Become a Widow Goals Group Leader & Transform Lives Through Community

In this episode of Widowed Too Soon , host Michelle Bader Ebersole is joined by guests Susan, Lanaea, Kim, and Karin as they share the heartwarming journey of building support groups for widows through Michelle’s nonprofit, Widow Goals . Recorded during a transformative weekend retreat in Scottsdale, Arizona, this inspiring conversation highlights the courage it takes to step out of comfort zones and create spaces where widows can connect, heal, and thrive. Listen in as these resilient women ope...

Feb 04, 202535 min

162- Turning Tragedy into Purpose: Tara Boehlke’s Inspirational Story

In this compelling episode of "Widowed 2 Soon," host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with Tara Boehlketo discuss her incredible journey through the trials and triumphs of widowhood. A devoted mother and follower of God, Tara shares her heartfelt story of meeting her first husband Billy, navigating a tumultuous relationship, and ultimately finding redemption and love through faith. Facing the immense challenge of losing both her husband and child within a few months, Tara opens up about her pro...

Jan 28, 20251 hr 36 min

161-Rebecca Busa Portillo's Widow Journey & Biblical Wisdom on Why Not to See Mediums

In this episode, host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with guest Rebecca Busa Portillo to explore the deep, transformative journey of widowhood, faith, and finding new purpose. Michelle and Rebecca, who first met at a widow's retreat, share a bond formed through their shared experiences of loss. Rebecca opens up about her emotional journey after the sudden passing of her husband, Sean, in early 2022 due to COVID-19 complications. She shares their story of a blended family, ministry work, and t...

Jan 21, 20251 hr 11 min

160- Finding Hope and Purpose After Loss- with Special Guest Lisa Woolery

In this heartfelt episode, host Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with guest Lisa Woolery to explore the rich tapestry of life after loss. This episode captures the gripping challenges faced by widows and the profound journey of overcoming them through faith and community. Lisa shares her poignant story of moving from Southern California to Kansas City, a transition marked by a devastating loss and unparalleled support from her new neighbors. Together, Michelle and Lisa delve into the complexiti...

Jan 14, 20251 hr 1 min

159-Unbearable Grief: Carol Sailer’s Faith Story of Losing Two Husbands and a Son

In this episode, host Michelle Bader Ebersole welcomes Carol Sailer, a resilient widow who shares her poignant journey through loss, grief, and finding new purpose. Carol opens up about her late husband Tom's cancer battle and hospice care, explaining the emotional toll and the profound need for closeness during such challenging times. She also recounts the subsequent loss of her second husband, Kurt, whose passing left her grappling with overwhelming grief and disrupted life plans. Carol's narr...

Jan 07, 20251 hr 1 min

158- Reflecting on 2024

Welcome to an inspiring episode of "Widowed 2 Soon." Join host Michelle Bader Ebersole as she takes us through a journey filled with personal reflections, celebrations, and goals. In this special year-end episode, Michelle shares her life’s biggest challenges and how she finds strength in God to overcome them. Moving candidly through the multifaceted experience of grief from widowhood, she opens up about the power of family traditions, the importance of allowing oneself to feel emotions, and the...

Dec 31, 202443 min

157- Grief, Faith, and the Power of Forgiveness with Special Guest John Yoder

In this episode, Michelle Bader Ebersole sits down with John Yoder, a widower from Aiken, South Carolina, who vulnerably shares his experiences after losing his wife, Twyla. John discusses feelings of guilt and regret, his struggles with faith, ensuring his children received the proper counseling, and even his journey to seek personal healing through studies such as the book of Job. This heartfelt conversation delves into John's toughest moments, including navigating medical care during his wife...

Dec 24, 20241 hr 25 min

156- Navigating Grief, Remarriage, and Blending Families with Special Guest Debbie Soushek

In this episode, host Michelle Bader Ebersole welcomes back recurring guest Debbie Soushek to share her powerful journey through widowhood, finding love again, and blending families. Together, Debbie and Michelle discuss honoring late spouses, embracing new identities, and the emotional challenges of transitioning into new relationships. Tune in as Debbie recounts her pivotal experiences, from joining a grief support group to marrying her current husband, Dave, and blending their seven children....

Dec 17, 20241 hr 18 min

155-Supporting Suicide Survivors and Widows with Special Guest Rachel Powell

Rachel Powell, a widowed mother, registered nurse, and founder of "Hope Speaker," shares her moving story of navigating life after the devastating loss of her husband to suicide. Discover how Rachel's unwavering faith in God guided her through the darkest times, helping her overcome immense grief and find renewed hope. Join Michelle and Rachel as they discuss the emotional intricacies of widowhood, the strength needed to overcome guilt and trauma, and the importance of supportive communities and...

Dec 10, 20241 hr 14 min
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