From dealing with a special needs child, the loss of her husband and surviving an abusive 2nd marriage to fierce women’s advocate

Author: Susan Ways
Published: Mon 26 May 2025
Episode Link: https://tendrilsofgrief.libsyn.com/from-dealing-with-a-special-needs-child-the-loss-of-her-husband-and-surviving-an-abusive-2nd-marriage-to-fierce-womens-advocate

In today’s episode of Tendrils of Grief, we welcome Julie Barth, a mother of six, trauma survivor, and tireless advocate for women facing life-altering adversity. Julie’s story is one of extraordinary resilience—navigating her daughter Tayt’s diagnosis with Primordial Dwarfism, her husband Colin’s heartbreaking battle with stage-four pancreatic cancer, and the deep wounds of emotional and financial abuse that followed.

As the founder and CEO of The Colin James Barth Outreach, Julie has turned her personal grief and trauma into a beacon of hope for women-led households in crisis. Her nonprofit, supported by The Gabby Petito Foundation, provides essential resources and unwavering support to women seeking security, stability, and healing after devastating life events.

Through her voice and mission, Julie empowers other women to protect themselves, think resourcefully, and break free from stigma. This conversation is not only a testament to human endurance—but also a call to action for advocacy, healing, and strength.

Tune in for an episode that is honest, raw, and deeply moving.

Episode Highlights