Widowhood Real Talk with Tina

By: Tina R. Fornwald
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  • Summary

  • Many people talk about the ups and downs of married life, but few prepare for the worst-case scenario when a spouse passes away. Marriage is a journey, a stage in life shared by two people on a path that is meant to be walked together. But what happens when you lose your partner? How does one deal with this permanent separation?

    Welcome to Tina's Widowhood Real Talk, a safe space for widows and widowers, as well as their loved ones, to talk and listen to stories of love and loss.

    Tina R. Fornwald's life was turned upside down when her husband Mark died suddenly of a massive heart attack while on vacation on March 11, 2017. His death was both tragic and unexpected. She had no idea how to survive without him or even if she could. They were married for 29 years, raised two wonderful children to adulthood, traveled the world together, and loved each other unconditionally. With a strong faith in God, countless therapy sessions, and the support of family and friends, she was able to keep living and develop a new life. She also started talking to other widows and widowers to gain insight, understanding, and a new perspective on this hard journey. This step was critical to her well-being, and those numerous conversations inspired the podcast. She felt called to turn her most dreadful experience into a place of healing and hope for others.

    The purpose of the show is to give a voice to what it's like to be a widow or widower. It's time to let people in the community—children, friends, family members, funeral directors, therapists, or clergy—know they can help in the healing process. Beyond that, the goal is to give children of widows and widowers a voice to speak about their experience and reach others who feel alone. There is hope and a group of caring individuals who want to lend a hand.

    Each episode features stories from Tina and her guests as they share their experiences, lessons learned, insights, and more. Let these honest conversations give you hope and comfort. Discover a wealth of resources and learn how to connect with others who are traveling the same path.

    Learn about the experiences of other widows and widowers, and how they are coping and healing in their own ways. No two experiences are alike, and no two stories are the same. Finding out how other people have handled—or are handling—this unfortunate event can help you feel more confident that, in your own time and at your own pace, you're handling it just fine.

    You are not alone on this journey. You shouldn't feel like you have to keep quiet about your feelings of loss and grief after a spouse dies. As you venture back into the world and into a new life, learn to be open with others and to express your true feelings. Experiencing grief after the death of a spouse merely demonstrates how much love there is in your heart.

    Join Tina on Widowhood Real Talk to talk about your experiences as a widow, both good and bad, and to find support in your journey.

    Visit https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/ to join the community and access additional resources.
    Copyright 2023 l All Rights Reserved l Widowhood Real Talk Tina, Inc. l Tina R. Fornwald
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Episodes
  • Widow Dating Experience With Francisco Rodriguez & Jessica Zoeller

    Widow Dating Experience With Francisco Rodriguez & Jessica Zoeller
    Jan 30 2025

    Dating as a widow and widower is not just about finding companionship. This particular dating experience is also about rebuilding trust, rediscovering joy, and embracing new beginnings. In this thought-provoking conversation, I welcome Francisco Rodriguez and Jessica Zoeller to explore the unique challenges and profound opportunities widows and widowers face when stepping back into the dating world. Together, they discuss practical advice, emotional resilience, and inspiring stories of hope. Tune in as these two amazing souls offer a roadmap for healing and connection whether you are navigating this journey yourself or supporting a loved one.


    I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others.


    Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World
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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • A Widower's Journey Of Hope With Francisco R.

    A Widower's Journey Of Hope With Francisco R.
    Jan 23 2025

    I sit down with Francisco R. who opens up about his widower's journey, as well as his complex experiences with love, loss, and the complexities of grief. We delve into his unique perspective on navigating life after the sudden passing of his wife, Audra. From the challenges of long-distance dating, the unexpected health struggles, to the importance of open communication about death, this episode offers a poignant and insightful look at the realities of grief. Discover how to find the strength to move forward and fully appreciate the resilience of the human spirit.


    I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others.

    Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World.


    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org/
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    1 hr and 40 mins
  • Widowhood Through A Therapist's Lens With Jessica Zoeller

    Widowhood Through A Therapist's Lens With Jessica Zoeller
    Jan 16 2025

    When the therapist becomes a widow, what happens next? Who will be the one to support them? Can they support themselves? Jessica Zoeller, a therapist, candidly shares how she handled this very situation after the death of her husband. She recounts their whirlwind romance, the challenges of relocating and building a family, and the devastating impact of his cancer diagnosis. Jessica opens up about the emotional turmoil of caregiving, the importance of finding support during grief, and her inspiring mission to help other young widows. She also reflects on navigating life after loss, finding a new purpose, and prioritizing her children's happiness.


    I am sharing my experience of loving the same man for 32 years, a mother to two adult children, a retired military officer, a breast cancer survivor, and my connections with others.

    Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts should reach out to a suicide hotline or local emergency number in their country: Psychology Today Suicide Hotlines and Prevention Resources Around the World
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    1 hr and 58 mins

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