The Widow Empowerment Project

Andy Dziedzic

In the wake of losing a life partner, finding a path through devastating grief – while also managing financial responsibilities and estate complexities – can be overwhelmingly challenging. Becoming a member of the widowed community instantly creates complex transactions and emotions that we’re (often) unprepared to deal with. Other than expensive estate attorneys, where does one turn for comprehensive guidance when countless critical decisions need to be made quickly? The Widow Empowerment Project aims to be the go-to resource for anyone who has lost a life partner, whether newly widowed or years into the journey. Our podcast is dedicated to helping all members of the widowed community navigate the terrain of their new reality by bringing together a community of guest speakers and library of resources in one centralized location. Listen in as host Andy Dziedzic, MBA discusses actionable advice with expert professionals in the financial, legal, and wellness fields, and more. read less

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Empowered Grief: Navigating Loss and Rebuilding Life with Support with Claire Drexler (Ep. 9)

Empowered Grief: Navigating Loss and Rebuilding Life with Support with Claire Drexler (Ep. 9)

Grief is a deeply personal journey, but with the right support, it becomes more manageable, offering comfort in life’s toughest moments. In this episode, Andy Dziedzic and Megan LeBarron speak with Claire Drexler, a licensed clinical social worker and grief educator from the Center for Loss and Bereavement. Claire discusses a holistic approach to grief … Continue reading Empowered Grief: Navigating Loss and Rebuilding Life with Support with Claire Drexler (Ep. 9)

Episodes

Empowered Grief: Navigating Loss and Rebuilding Life with Support with Claire Drexler (Ep. 9)

Empowered Grief: Navigating Loss and Rebuilding Life with Support with Claire Drexler (Ep. 9)

Grief is a deeply personal journey, but with the right support, it becomes more manageable, offering comfort in life’s toughest moments. In this episode, Andy Dziedzic and Megan LeBarron speak with Claire Drexler, a licensed clinical social worker and grief educator from the Center for Loss and Bereavement. Claire discusses a holistic approach to grief … Continue reading Empowered Grief: Navigating Loss and Rebuilding Life with Support with Claire Drexler (Ep. 9)

Supporting Widows with Dignity: The Role of In-Home Care with Mandy Delp (Ep. 8)

Supporting Widows with Dignity: The Role of In-Home Care with Mandy Delp (Ep. 8)

When faced with grief, illness, or the loss of a loved one, finding the right support can make all the difference. Mandy Delp, a caregiving expert from Home Helpers, joins host Andy Dziedzic and co-host Megan LeBarron to discuss how compassionate in-home care can provide vital assistance for widows and families during life’s most challenging … Continue reading Supporting Widows with Dignity: The Role of In-Home Care with Mandy Delp (Ep. 8)

Funeral Planning and Preparation with Licensed Funeral Director, Mike McDonald (Ep. 7)

Funeral Planning and Preparation with Licensed Funeral Director, Mike McDonald (Ep. 7)

End of life planning is a sensitive (and often uncomfortable) topic that is easy to avoid, yet it stands as one of the most profound gifts you can give to your loved ones. In this episode, Andy Dziedzic, MBA, is joined by co-host Megan LeBarron, Director of Financial Planning at Prepared Retirement Institute. Together they … Continue reading Funeral Planning and Preparation with Licensed Funeral Director, Mike McDonald (Ep. 7)

The Travis Manion Foundation – Finding Healing Through Service to Others (Ep. 6)

The Travis Manion Foundation – Finding Healing Through Service to Others (Ep. 6)

What if your deepest pain could be transformed into your life’s greatest purpose? Losing a life partner is a profound and disorienting experience that can leave one grappling with feelings of intense anger and sadness. Those emotions can create a paralysis that prevents us from moving forward or be the catalyst that forces us to … Continue reading The Travis Manion Foundation – Finding Healing Through Service to Others (Ep. 6)

An Unexpected Loss: Finding Support as a Gold Star Spouse, with Lauren Tella (Ep. 5)

An Unexpected Loss: Finding Support as a Gold Star Spouse, with Lauren Tella (Ep. 5)

The concept of widowhood seems like something only those in their twilight years should face. Whenever this unexpected change might happen – earlier in life, or later – it can leave a person feeling lost, shocked and without direction. Thankfully, guidance exists for those who need it and the loved ones who support them. Join … Continue reading An Unexpected Loss: Finding Support as a Gold Star Spouse, with Lauren Tella (Ep. 5)

Building Your Support Network with Crisis Navigation Partner, Debra Woog (Ep. 4)

Building Your Support Network with Crisis Navigation Partner, Debra Woog (Ep. 4)

Losing a loved one is a difficult milestone that often evolves into a crisis situation. Frequently, many extremely important decisions need to be made quickly, under intense pressure and emotion. Without an adequate support network of friends, family, and professionals, completing even simple tasks can seem insurmountable. Join Andy Dziedzic, MBA as he talks with … Continue reading Building Your Support Network with Crisis Navigation Partner, Debra Woog (Ep. 4)

From Loss to Legacy: Introducing Your Host, Andy Dziedzic (Ep. 3)

From Loss to Legacy: Introducing Your Host, Andy Dziedzic (Ep. 3)

In the wake of losing a loved one, finding a path through the grief while managing financial responsibilities (among other estate complexities) can be overwhelmingly challenging. The Widow Empowerment Project aims to solve that problem. In this episode, you’ll learn everything you need to know about your host, Andy Dziedzic and the inspiration behind the … Continue reading From Loss to Legacy: Introducing Your Host, Andy Dziedzic (Ep. 3)

Grief and Trauma Therapy With Jennifer McCarron (Ep. 2)

Grief and Trauma Therapy With Jennifer McCarron (Ep. 2)

Complex emotions often accompany grief, and therapy can provide a safe space to express feelings such as sadness, anger, guilt, and loneliness. A therapist acts as a strategic guide through the healing process, offering empathy, understanding, and validation. In this episode, Andy Dziedzic sits down with Jennifer McCarron, LMFT – a marriage and family therapist … Continue reading Grief and Trauma Therapy With Jennifer McCarron (Ep. 2)

Building a Community with Michele Neff Hernandez (Ep. 1)

Building a Community with Michele Neff Hernandez (Ep. 1)

Navigating life after the loss of a life partner is full of challenges – emotional, practical, financial. Facing those challenges while grieving can be overwhelming and finding practical support feels impossible. Join Andy Dziedzic as he sits down with Michele Neff Hernandez, the CEO of Soaring Spirits International, whose unique journey through widowhood after the … Continue reading Building a Community with Michele Neff Hernandez (Ep. 1)

The Widow Empowerment Project Coming Soon

The Widow Empowerment Project Coming Soon

Welcome to The Widow Empowerment Project, with CEO and Senior Wealth Planner for Prepared Retirement Institute, Andy Dziedzic. This podcast is committed to helping widows and widowers alike navigate the new complexities of their evolving financial journey with understanding, ease, and compassion. After the loss of his mother, Andy witnessed his step-father struggle to navigate … Continue reading The Widow Empowerment Project Coming Soon