Qualified - Lessons in Loss
Former U.S. Navy podcaster and communications professional Michelle Heaton, now shares her personal story about the loss of her teenage son and her subsequent search to find empathy, insight and counsel for the unique pain she was experiencing.
Speaking with other bereaved parents who survived the pain and emerged stronger brought her comfort. She recalls a quote from a pastor years ago, "God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called." Now ten years later, Michelle knows the truth of that statement and is anxious to share the lessons she learned from her loss with other hurting people.
In each episode, Michelle interviews incredible people who share their stories of overcoming loss; including death, divorce, illness, aging, loneliness and estrangement, to inspire you and give you hope!
- Update frequency
- every 13 days
- Average duration
- 30 minutes
- Episodes
- 66
- Years Active
- 2021 - 2024
"Killing Fields" survivor shares her story
As a survivor of the mass genocide in Cambodia in 1975, Sara Im is well-acquainted with adversity and loss. In this episode, Sara shares her story of being held captive by the Khmer Ro…
Is Heaven Real and is My Loved One There?
Is Heaven a real place? Is my loved one there? Can they hear us if we talk to them? How do I go on living when the person I loved dearly has died? Dr. Paul Lenderman, Certified Grie…
How my Divorce Changed my Life
Seeking counsel after his divorce, Jim talks with a therapist who uses the word misogynist to describe his personality. Shocked and ashamed, he sets out to make changes and break out o…
What is a Great Father?
What is the standard for being a great father? Where does a man turn to determine his worth and value as a dad? In this episode, I interview Jeremy - a husband, father and pastor, wh…
Infertility and the Path to Adoption
In this episode, Yvette opens up about the struggles associated with infertility. She shares the pain and frustration she felt about the course of daily injections, social pressure and …
Surviving the Loss of My Son - A Father's Journey
In this episode, Ron shares about a series of traumatic events that took place in his life, including the death of his 17 year old Son, Daniel. Following years of depression and even t…
When Mother's Day Hurts
Mother's Day can be a difficult day for some. Bereaved moms, moms who are estranged from their children, children who are estranged from their moms, women who are facing infertility an…
Solid Foundation – A Mother’s Mission to Save Lives Starts with Her Own
On December 11, 2012, LeAnn lost her 16-year old son Andy to suicide. Determined to raise awareness about this difficult topic, she immediately took action, starting a foundation and s…
Anticipating the Loss of my Son and Choosing my Approach to Grief
When Elaine learned that her 4-year-old son had Duchenne muscular dystrophy and that he would most likely not live past his teen years, she made a decision to enjoy every day of their l…
How my own losses made me a better therapist
Those who have endured the pain of loss are uniquely qualified to help others with their experience. In this episode, I interview a therapist who has textbook knowledge and real life e…
The Emotional Toll of Losing a Spouse
Shocked by the depth of emotional pain he experienced following the death of his wife, Bob sought advice and counsel to ease his suffering. He recalls the sadness, sleepless nights, lo…
Milestones, Memes and Memories
As bereaved parents know, certain dates and milestones can bring us to our knees. Today, on my son's birthday, I wanted to share a story of answered prayer, hope for grievers and the m…
What my son’s death taught me about life
After receiving the news that her son’s germ cell cancer had returned, Mary realized she had only precious days left with Nate to say goodbye. A 10-year struggle followed as Mary grieve…
Finding Purpose After the Loss of an Only Child
Losing an only child brings a unique sort of pain and sadness that can be debilitating. Christine shares openly about the impact of sudden death, the emotions associated with being a c…
Choosing to Love my Alcoholic Mother
Growing up in a chaotic home, suffering abuse as a child and then marrying an addict finally led Christina to Al-Anon where she realized her mother was an alcoholic. Longing for a heal…
Tattoos, Hawks and Cheese Platters – Remembering My Brother
Eight years after the sudden death of his brother, TJ opens up about his feelings of grief and confusion. Along with his wife, Jamie, the couple ultimately decide to embrace the traged…
Losing My Dad and Finding New Peace with Mom
Following the unexpected death of her beloved father, Lauri is now faced with caring for her elderly mother, who she has had a tense relationship with for many years.
While caring for he…
Finding Gratitude after the Death of a Child
During the holiday season, people grieving the loss of a loved one can experience more intense feelings of sadness and despair. In this episode, I talk with Christine, another bereave…
How I Contributed to My Daughter's Pain
In this episode, “How I Contributed to My Daughter’s Pain”, Susan shares her story about breaking the cycle of family trauma. Concerned about her daughters’ depression and alcohol abus…
Life Begins in the Pit - Discovering the sweetness of love through suffering
In this episode, Kevin gives us a glimpse into the life of a special needs child caretaker. He talks about his daughter’s seizure disorder and how caring for her changed the course of…