Hi!
Many therapists and writers say that the ocean reflects our inner world. It invites us to slow down, breath deeper, and pay attention to what's happening beneath the surface.
Marine Biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols coined the term “Blue Mind” to describe the:
"calm, meditative state our brains enter when we're near water. It's known to lower stress, boost creativity, and help us feel more grounded, peaceful, and reflective."
That space of stillness was exactly what I needed. I recently took a short beach break with my family, time to unplug, soak in the last days of summer, and celebrate 19 years of marriage. I'm learning that stepping away to rest isn't quitting...its part of being present. And while I don't have a fully clear heart or all the answers yet, I'm slowly finding space to breath again.
🎧 A Special Two-Part Episode: Mollie’s Widow Journey
Coming back with a little more margin and perspective, I'm grateful to share a new two part episode that feels deeply connected to this season of reflection, healing, and learning to carry hard things. It's emotional and incredibly close to my heart.
Mollie and I go way back. We played on the same soccer team in high school and I've always been grateful for her friendship. I am honored that she felt led to share her journey through grief and unexpected loss of her first husband, Ashley, here on Hidden Chapters podcast.
There was so much more to Mollie’s journey than just the loss itself. That is why I decided to release her interview into two parts.
In Part 1, Mollie talks about the shock and numbness of losing her late husband, Ashley, suddenly, the moment where everything in her world stopped, and how she began to navigate those first overwhelming days. Her tears are definitely heard and felt. Her conversation is truly honest about the grief, but also filled with wisdom she gained from the experience.
In next week's Part 2, Mollie opens up about what came after the grief, the slow rebuilding, the unexpected turns, and the quiet healing that led her toward love again. It's a beautiful reminder that even after the hardest chapters, there's still more to the story.
🎙️💬 An Audio Clip from Mollie's episode:
🎧 Listen to Episode 11: Part 1. (dropping Friday, July 18, 2025)
👉 Part 1: Surviving the shock of sudden loss: Mollie's Widow Journey
I hope you find something in Part 1 and Part 2 that resonates with you right where you are. 💛
💬 Help Me Shape What's Next
As Season 1 of Hidden Chapters begins to wind down, I’d love your help.
Now that I’m back from a little beach break, I’m recording the Season 1 finale with reflections and planning ahead to what’s next. I’d truly value your thoughts as part of this community.
Whether you’ve been listening faithfully or just catching episodes here and there, your feedback matters.
📝 Quick Listener Survey
📩 Click here to take it now
Your voice helps guide Season 2 to be even more meaningful, intentional, and encouraging for you, and for others who need to hear it.
And if someone you know listens to Hidden Chapters but hasn’t subscribed yet, feel free to share this post with them too. The more voices, the better.
🌱 Coming Next Week…
Part 2 of Mollie’s Story the healing, the remarriage, and finding love after loss
Reflections from me as I wrap my first season as a new podcaster
A little preview of what I’m dreaming up for Season 2 👀
Thank you so much for reading!
Until the next chapter ,
🎙 Host of Hidden Chapters
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