Whole New Life
Arts & Culture Podcasts
I never thought I would have to live without him. He was my soulmate, my best friend, my partner in everything. We met when we were both young and adventurous, and we spent 30 years exploring the world and enjoying each other's company. He was selfless, kind, and inspirational to many. He was the love of my life.
But in 2020, everything changed. He was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, and despite all the treatments and trials, nothing could stop it. He fought bravely and gracefully, never losing his optimism. He told me he was not afraid of dying, but he was heartbroken for leaving me. He made me promise to keep living, to find joy and meaning in every day, to not let grief consume me. He said he would always be with me, in my heart and in my memories.
On my podcast I share what I have done to fulfill my promise to find that joy and to find meaning in my whole new life. I openly share what I’ve learned and how I’ve grown — the good, the bad, the ugly, and the challenging. I am real, raw, and honest on every episode.
My story should not be interpreted in any way as expert, health, or medical advice. I chose to share my story, in my voice, to assure people they are not alone and perhaps provide a bit of inspiration or a glimpse of hope, if needed.
Music: Percussive Acoustic Cover of My Hero performed by Jason Busse
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Stacy Ryan Author LLC
Location:
United States
Description:
I never thought I would have to live without him. He was my soulmate, my best friend, my partner in everything. We met when we were both young and adventurous, and we spent 30 years exploring the world and enjoying each other's company. He was selfless, kind, and inspirational to many. He was the love of my life. But in 2020, everything changed. He was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, and despite all the treatments and trials, nothing could stop it. He fought bravely and gracefully, never losing his optimism. He told me he was not afraid of dying, but he was heartbroken for leaving me. He made me promise to keep living, to find joy and meaning in every day, to not let grief consume me. He said he would always be with me, in my heart and in my memories. On my podcast I share what I have done to fulfill my promise to find that joy and to find meaning in my whole new life. I openly share what I’ve learned and how I’ve grown — the good, the bad, the ugly, and the challenging. I am real, raw, and honest on every episode. My story should not be interpreted in any way as expert, health, or medical advice. I chose to share my story, in my voice, to assure people they are not alone and perhaps provide a bit of inspiration or a glimpse of hope, if needed. Music: Percussive Acoustic Cover of My Hero performed by Jason Busse StacyRyanAuthor.com Stacy Ryan Author LLC
Language:
English
Website:
http://StacyRyanAuthor.com
Episodes
The Odyssey of Overcoming Widowhood with Grace and Grit
3/9/2024
My journey through widowhood has been a path paved with trials, tears, and ultimately, transformation. This reflective episode marks the close of season two of Whole New Life, where I share not just the stark realities of loss, but the resurgence of hope and the fortitude of the human spirit. It is here, amidst the echoes of my story and the voices of my dear niece Evelyn and my steadfast friend Wendy, that we uncover the power of vulnerability, the strength found in setting solo goals, and the courage to embrace the 'same but different' me. As I recount the pivotal moments and lessons gleaned from this season—like starting a podcast and writing a book series—I do so with a heart open to the connections made with listeners worldwide, particularly fellow widows who find solace in our shared narratives.
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:08:26
Harboring Courage in the Wake of Grief
3/2/2024
As the sun sets on a transformative season of Whole New Life, I find comfort and courage in the company of Wendy, a friend who's been the mirror reflecting my journey from heartache to hope. Our conversation is an open book, where the pages turn to reveal the strength and vision that have blossomed within me since the universe called my beloved husband away. We reminisce about the day in November when the winds of change whispered promises of a brighter tomorrow, and I share with you the pearls of wisdom that helped me to hold on to the belief that joy can be reclaimed in the aftermath of loss.
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:17:20
Narratives of Heartache and Hope in New Beginnings
2/24/2024
Navigating through the stormy seas of loss, I found solace and purpose in the written word, crafting a narrative that would both honor my husband John's memory and offer solace to those on similar journeys. Alongside me, my vibrant 14-year-old niece Evelyn brings an effervescent touch to our storytelling, her love for fairy tales and acting weaving a thread of joy through the fabric of our creative endeavors. Together, we unfold a tapestry of resilience, demonstrating the transformative power of embracing new chapters in life, both literal and metaphorical.
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:19:27
A Journey of Triumphs, Tattoos, and Timeless Memories
2/17/2024
With each significant life event, from crossing an Ironman finish line to overcoming cancer and embracing widowhood, my tapestry of tattoos narrates a tale of resilience and memory. Join me as I recount the poignant stories behind each piece of ink—a silent symphony of joy, strength, and survival that adorns my body.
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:09:31
Embracing Change & Fostering Resilience Amidst Sorrow
2/10/2024
When your world crumbles, how do you find the strength to rebuild it? This episode of Whole New Life is about: YES, I have changed; how can you not after witnessing the person you love the most slowly die in front of your eyes. I will share the struggle as well as the light that can be found in the aftermath of loss. I illuminate the paths that have led me to rediscover my purpose. I share the heartfelt journey of transformation, acknowledging the pain but also the profound growth.
Determined & Resilient!
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:15:41
Moving Forward: Honoring Love, Letting Go, and Welcoming a Fresh Start
1/27/2024
When the house you lived in for over 20 years becomes a tapestry of memories, how do you find the strength to let go and begin anew? Join me as I recount the emotional odyssey of downsizing and moving forward following the loss of my husband. We'll explore the tough decisions and deep reflections that come with sorting through a lifetime of shared belongings and the bittersweet task of choosing what to keep and what to release. This episode isn't just about the physical act of moving; it's a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for growth amid life's most challenging transitions.
Embracing solitude in a new environment can be as daunting as it is liberating. I'll share the intimate details of combating loneliness, the unexpected comfort in signs from John, and the personal strides taken toward setting and achieving new goals. Through my journey, I aim to inspire those who are navigating their own path of loss and renewal. So, tune in for an episode that's not just a chronicle of change, but a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to honor their past while courageously stepping into a future filled with gratitude and open heartedness.
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:12:59
Charting Uncharted Territories: The Year of Dabbling and Discovery
1/20/2024
Embarking on a 'Year of Dabbling' after the loss of my husband, I am here to share the beauty and challenges of forging a new path, one dabble at a time. Imagine the courage it takes to embrace uncertainty and the thrill of ticking off experiences from a list you never knew you’d create. This season on Whole New Life, I’m taking you along on a poignant and liberating journey that highlights the strength I found in the wake of heartache.
I’ll take you behind the scenes of crafting my book series that encapsulates my life's most pivotal roles - an Ironman, a young cancer survivor, and now, a widow. Through open conversations and heartfelt storytelling, I aim to foster a community where peace, love, and happiness aren't just fleeting moments but the very foundations of our new beginnings.
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:14:10
Kick Off: Season 2 ~ Year of Dabbling
1/13/2024
It's SO good to be back! On this episode I will share the good news regarding my self-published 3-book series coming in 2024 as well as read you a synopsis of each book. I also share a brief summary of the 3 podcast seasons launching in 2024. It's going to be an exciting year...continue to follow me as it all unfolds.
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:08:32
Synopsis of Season 1 ~ Year of Surviving
9/2/2023
That's a wrap for Season 1, ah-ha moments will be shared, a preview of Season 2 and what's next for me.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:08:27
Sisterhood ~ sharing a different, but similar experience at the same time (guest)
8/26/2023
I will share my relationship with John’s sister, the journey of both losing our husbands in 2020 and how we've grown the past 2.5 years.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:22:45
Starting To Make Changes ~ feeling what's in my heart, in the moment
8/19/2023
I will share some personal journal entries from Aug 2021, when I started to intentionally write down & act on some changes that I felt in my heart, what I learned & how I've grown from each decision.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:09:09
Explaining How I Feel Is Challenging ~ relying on someone who understands (guest)
8/12/2023
I will share how hard it is to understand how I feel myself much less explain it to others and the benefits of finding people who truly do understand. Today’s guest is my friend Maribeth; we will share our stories & a few of our challenges.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:17:12
Inspirational Refresh ~ taking my Jeep Wrangler off road
8/5/2023
I will share a little about my Jeep girl history and my new off-roading hobby.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:12:14
Seeking Counseling ~ how I found what worked for me (please see disclaimer in show notes)
7/29/2023
I will share why I chose 1-1 vs. group counseling and a summary of what I learned in my five sessions.
DISCLAIMER: This is MY journey of counseling. These are MY reasons for seeking a counselor when I did. This is MY real & honest thoughts going into this. These are MY learnings. This is NOT to be interpreted as professional advice or guidance. It's just me sharing MY story.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:13:29
Being Alone & Being Lonely ~ there's a difference
7/22/2023
I will share what the difference is between these two phrases for me after losing John & how I manage these feelings.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:09:50
Distractions Are Literally Survival ~ keeping busy a variety of ways
7/15/2023
I will share the evolution of what my distractions have been since losing my husband and why I live with the motto: no regrets & no expectations.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:15:22
All The Firsts ~ the constant reminders of our reality (guests)
7/8/2023
I will share what a first means to me, the real & raw feelings I had & a few ways I managed those firsts. I have 3 guests today who are amazing friends of mine & unfortunately young widows as well - Pam, Kristine & Michelle. We will have a conversation about a few of our firsts and how we managed them.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:20:31
Inspirational Refresh ~ why I make exercise a priority
7/1/2023
I will share how challenging it is for me to relive this part of my life, what an inspirational refresh episode is and why I am doing it. Today's inspirational refresh is about why I make exercise a priority in my life.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:09:38
Discussions & Discoveries ~ realizing my progress (guest)
6/24/2023
I will share the value of quality friends, story sharing, laughing guilt-free & accepting positive feedback, how being proud of myself is 100% okay & my friend Michelle will share what she's observed with my progress over time.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:17:13
The Signs...Oh Man, The Signs ~ they show up exactly when I need them
6/17/2023
I will share why I believe in these signs, the signs that work for me, a few decisions I made by myself & how I knew I made the right one & why my signs are less frequent now.
Season 1: Year of Surviving
StacyRyanAuthor.com
Duration:00:13:12