Widows That Wine Together Podcast

This episode highlights the challenges that the holidays can bring for widows, such as overwhelming expectations, triggering traditions, or feeling pressured to participate in events.  The host, Jenny Salkeld, shares her our own story along with key points on setting boundaries for self-care and emotional well-being. If you have any questions on this episode please send an email to widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Elizabeth Horn and John Polo as we dive into the complex and often emotional journey of dating after the loss of a spouse. John opened our discussion with his powerful analogy about "how they get their own damn cup," setting the tone for a candid conversation on navigating uncharted territory.  We talked about the range of emotions you may encounter—fear, guilt, and vulnerability—and how essential it is to give yourself patience and grace.  John also shared insights from his book, How to Date a Widow 101, and how you can find beauty in life again.  This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of embracing life after loss and finding new ways to celebrate it. If you have any questions on this episode or have ideas for future episodes please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com. Enjoy the episode.

Welcome to the podcast! I'm thrilled to have our special guest, Rachel Kodanaz, speak about a deeply personal and often challenging topic: what to do with a loved one's possessions after they pass. In our conversation, we highlighted the important understanding that there is no specific timeline for when to begin this process—it's all about recognizing when you feel ready.  Whether you're just starting this journey or considering it for the future, this episode offers heartfelt advice and valuable strategies to navigate this emotional terrain.  If you have any questions on this episode please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com

Welcome to the episode “Life is NOW” where we have a thoughtful and heartfelt conversation about embracing the philosophy that "Life is NOW".  In this episode, we explore the profound journey of Sandy Moore who shares how she was motivated to embrace the "Life is NOW" philosophy.  Her journey is a testament to resiliency and hope, providing invaluable insights for anyone facing similar challenges. Whether you're a widow seeking solace or someone striving to live more fully, Sandy’s story will inspire you to take life on with renewed purpose and joy. Join us for this moving conversation that highlights the beauty of living fully. If you have any questions regarding this episode or have ideas for future episodes please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com

Welcome to this special episode of our podcast, where we delve into the transformative journey of a group of widows who embarked on a profound travel experience to Portugal.  Over the course of ten days, we witnessed an incredible evolution from the start of the trip until the final goodbyes. New friendships were forged, and there was a collective learning to live life fully in the present.  Join us as we share stories of transformation, healing, and the joy of looking forward to new adventures, learning to live life to the fullest once again. If you have any questions regarding this episode or have ideas for future episodes please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com

Losing a spouse is one of life's most challenging and heart-wrenching experiences. Yet, within this dark and uncertain space, there lies a path to reinvention and rediscovery.  Embracing change becomes a crucial part of this journey, as it opens the door to finding new purpose and meaning.  For this episode Deborah Nylec shares her story on how she found a way through the pain and emerged as a new version of herself, shaped by both love and loss...and of course some laughter as you will soon find out.  If you have any questions regarding this episode please reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

Joining us today we have Jennifer Clark, Leah Johnston, Rebecca Hultquist who lost their husbands in 2020 and 2021. We also have Rosie Davis, who lost her mother to COVID in 2020 and started the Yellow Heart Memorial to remember those that passed from this illness. We all share one commonality in which we want to make sure that our loved one is not simply a statistic of the pandemic. The stories highlighted in the podcast demonstrate that our loved ones were more than a number.  There is so much that can be learned from our personal experiences.  Unlike other grief, COVID widows endured a traumatic experience in a very polarizing environment.  If you have any questions on the episode reach out to me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com.

Is it just a random coincidence or it is more? Signs and synchronicities are the universe's way of reaching out and providing us guidance.  Tanya Carroll Richardson, a spiritual author and professional intuitive, along with Jennifer Clark and Cory Schaller, badass widow friends, join me in discussing the fascinating way the universe communicates with us.  If you have any questions please reach out to me at widowthatwine@gmail.com.

This episode will highlight the benefits of traveling particularly after the loss of a loved one.  Guests Erin Hente and Jennifer Clark discuss how important it is for us to embrace the benefits of travel as a means to heal and realize that the world is filled with beauty and opportunities.  Travel gives us the opportunity to reflect and explore new insights and perspectives.

My badass widow friends join me on this podcast to discuss what we did with our wedding rings after our loved one passed.  The decision to remove a wedding ring is a deeply personal one and there is no right or wrong answer.  This amazing group of women share their personal stories and words of encouragement for those of you that may be facing this pivotal point in your grief journey.  If you have any questions please reach out to me at widowthatwine@gmail.com.

Episode 6 highlights the importance of getting your financial house in order after the loss of your loved one.  Rick Salmeron, Certified Financial Planner, highlights how he can help you navigate the financial Jenga as you move forward in paving a new path for your future.  If you have any questions or have ideas for future podcasts please email me at widowsthatwine@gmail.com

Losing a parent is a difficult experience and my daughter Samantha shares her story and perspective on how the loss of her dad has shaped her life today.  She also highlights the importance of honoring and remembering her father's legacy, particularly on Father's Day.

Do you have a living trust? What are you waiting for?!!! Don’t make any more excuses, such as “I will work on it soon” or “It will cost me too much money”. You must listen to this podcast and get your estate plan in order. Episode 4 highlights the importance of estate planning, trusts, and wills. Our special guest, Crista Hermance, a trust attorney in California, shares her experience and knowledge on how estate planning is essential for everyone.

Episode 3 highlights the importance of divine connections on our journey.  Divine connections come out of nowhere and may significantly impact your life.  Our special guest, Barbara, shares her story as a widow and how these special connections have provided her with encouragement and inspiration.  Her faith helped her come back together after an unexpected loss and help comfort and guide others.

The tax season surprise...the Widow's Tax. What is it? What should you know? Podcast guest, Elisa Meyer - Certified Public Accountant, shares her experience and insight on the Widow's Tax.  This is one of the least know taxes and can add financial pain to an already emotional time.  She highlights what you should know after the loss of your loved one regarding tax filing status, the impact to the tax bracket, real estate considerations, pensions, and life insurance.

The Widows That Wine Together share a message of hope and support during this journey.  On Valentine's Day, we ask our listeners to pay it forward to a widow or widower and let them know that they are loved and not alone.  Just the thought of remembering them with a phone call, flowers, candy, or a hug will brighten their day.  Trust me it will mean the world to them.  Questions on the podcast send email to widowsthatwine@gmail.com