A Widow's Heart

There really isn't a roadmap for becoming a widow. We make new decisions, learn when to ask for help, and eventually begin to wonder what the rest of life might look like. Dr. Susan Walton, author of Lunch with the Widows, has spent years learning from other widows. And I love her reminder that there's no one right way to do this.

My guest is Bishop Daniel, president of GFA World. He's going to introduce us to widows in parts of Asia and Africa who are often forgotten, rejected, and even blamed for the death of their husbands. But we're also going to hear about the people who are showing up, learning their names, listening to their stories, and reminding them that they are deeply loved by God.

If you have ever wondered whether you'll laugh again, dream again, or even feel like yourself again after losing the love of your life, you're not alone. Today, you will hear from Rachel Powel, a previous guest of A Widow's Heart, whose journey through heartbreaking loss reminds us that while grief changes us, it doesn't have to define us. In today's conversation, you'll find a little hope, a little peace, and another reason to trust Jesus with your heart. Rachel Powel is a contributing author in the Scars to Stars anthropology book series and the founder of Hope Speaker, where she serves as a Christian widow coach. You can learn more about Rachel and her ministry at hopespeaker.com.

What does one do after unimaginable heartbreak? On this episode of A Widow's Heart, Pam Lundell talks with Shawn Mathews, a woman whose story has touched hearts across Minnesota and far beyond. Shawn Mathews lost her beloved husband, Wayzata police officer Bill Mathews, in the line of duty following a tragic crash in 2017. This conversation isn't just about lost, it's about love, faith, family, resilience, and the legacy one life can leave behind. Shawn joins us today to share memories of Bill, what grief has looked like for her and their son, and how hope can still shine even after unimaginable heartbreak.

How do you trust God's plan in an unexpected season? Today, you will hear from Jamie Bollinger. She is an encourager, worship leader, and songwriter with a recent release, "Even So." She recently spoke at the Widow Might Spring Lunch-in and was struck by how gently and honestly she talks about grief, loss, and learning to keep walking. Jaimie shares how God meets us in quiet ways when life feels very different from what we thought it would be.

How do you balance great loss with great blessings? On today's episode of A Widow's Heart, you'll hear from Kirby Kelly, an author, YouTuber, and podcaster. She shares her experience of joyful anticipation mixed with grief and loss.

Healing after loss is hard, but it can be a beautiful journey. On today's episode of a widow's heart, you'll hear from my returning guest, Averil Shadd, about a time where she had to care for her children and herself in a moment of grief. You'll hear how God met her in a powerful way.

Experience the story of Jesus like never before in THE CHRIST, a four-part Easter audio epic. THE CHRIST brings the gospel narrative vividly to life—from the humble manger to the victorious resurrection—through world-class voice talent, cinematic soundscapes, and stirring music. From the halls of Roman power to the wilderness of Judea and the hills of Galilee, this immersive audio drama follows the life, ministry, sacrifice, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth—and the people forever changed by Him. Follow the podcast now so you hear each new episode the moment it releases. Listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-christ-an-easter-audio-epic/id1870710176 Or here: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oaFRx79AiROdosDof8FME Learn more at TheChristPodcast.com

Today, you're going to hear from Gary and Mari. And as I listened to them share, I just kept thinking… this is one of those stories that will really stay with me. It's a story of grief, faith, and forgiveness… and of God being present in ways we may not expect. Book: https://www.amazon.com/Remembering-Hannah-Journey-Through-Loss/dp/B0FY5KFKG3

Have you ever felt like you had to be strong for everyone else… even when your own heart was breaking? Hi, I'm Pam Lundell, and today on A Widow's Heart I'm talking with Deedee Lindelien. Deedee shares honestly about grief, faith, and what it looks like to keep walking forward when life changes in ways you never expected. If you're navigating loss, or learning how to trust God in a difficult season, I think you'll find encouragement in this conversation.