Podcast
Grief + Grace
Hosted by Angela Ireland · EN
Have you ever experienced a soul crushing loss? Was your world so shattered that even breathing hurt? Did you feel that God had failed you? Or that you might never recover from or be able to go on with your life?
I have. On February 7, 2022, my life changed in the most unimaginable way, my eleven year old son, Ethan, my baby died unexpectedly. He was my heart.
In the days that followed, I focused on what needed to be done making sure my daughter, his sister was supported, the funeral arrangements made, all of the necessary things were done.
But in the days and weeks that followed, I had to face what my life had now become.
In this podcast, I will share with you what grief looks like, but I will also show you what it looks like to journey through it to the other side.
If you're still stuck, unable to move through what has hurt you so deeply, then I'm inviting you on this journey with me as we draw closer to Jesus and rise out of the ashes of grief to live a life filled with joy.
Grief is different for all of us. If I can serve you as you travel your road from grief to joy, I would love to connect.
www.blueskiesareonthehorizon.com
Instagram @grief_plus_grace_podcast
Email: grief_plus_grace_podcast@use.startmail.com
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
080: Fruit of the Spirit-Joy
Apr 1400:10:07Tap to summarizeWelcome back to a new season of the Grief + Grace Podcast. In this deeply personal episode, I share a life updarte that marks a major transition-both spirtually and practically. From an unexpected career ending after 28 years to stepping fully into my calling to prepare for a missionary journey to Ghana and a possible relocation to Rwanda- this season is one of obedience, faith and surrender. But this episode is not just about where I'm going. It's about who I'm becoming. Today we begin a new series on the Fruit of the Spirit, starting with joy- a word that can feel almost out of reach when you've experienced deep grief. So the question becomes: How do you experience joy... when your heart has been broken? What you'll learn in this Episode: Why grief and growth can coexist The truth about "unexpected" life transitions and divine timing How loss can become a release into purpose What it means to live in obedience- even when it stretches you Why the fruit of the Spirit must be cultivated before crisis A biblical definition of joy that goes beyond emotion How joy and grief can exist at the same time Key Takeaway: Joy is not the absence of grief- it is the presence of God in the midst of it. Scripture Focus: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.. Let's Stay Connected If this episode spoke to you, I would love to hear your story. Share this episode, leave a review, or reach out because you don't have to walk this journey alone. Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help this message reach more women navigating grief and growth.
Transcribe →079: Four Years Without My Son: Grief, Healing and Staying the Course
Jan 2600:08:09Tap to summarizeIn this deeply personal episode of Grief + Grace, I reflect on what it means to live four years without my son, Ethan, as his 15th birthday approaches. I share updates on my physical recovery from recent shoulder surgery and draw parallels between physical healing and the long, sacred work of grief. This episode is an honest meditation on motherhood, loss, faith, guilt, hope, and the daily decision to stay the course as a Christian after devastating loss. I speak openly about grief shared with my daughter Emily, the comfort of believing Ethan is whole and at peace with God, and the courage it takes to continue living faithfully in an unfair world. This is an episode for anyone navigating life after loss, questioning their faith, or learning how to carry love forward when someone you cherish is no longer physically here. Topics Covered Life four years after child loss Remembering Ethan on what would have been his 15th birthday The emotional and spiritual parallels between physical healing and grief Parenting through grief and watching your surviving child find strength Faith, guilt, and hope after loss Choosing to live faithfully in an unfair world The courage to begin again and envision a future after profound loss Scripture Reflection "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." — Psalm 34:18 Key Takeaway Grief does not disappear with time—but it does change us. Healing is not about becoming who we were before loss, but about becoming someone new who can carry both sorrow and hope at the same time. Listener Encouragement If you are walking through grief, please know this: you are not failing because it still hurts. Love doesn't end, and neither does the God who walks with us through the valley. You are allowed to heal at your own pace while still longing for what has been lost. Connect & Share If this episode spoke to you, please consider sharing it with someone who may need comfort or encouragement today. You can also leave a review to help others find the Grief + Grace podcast. Thank you for listening—and for holding space for grief and grace together.
Transcribe →078: It's a New Year... What's New About It?
Jan 500:12:25Tap to summarizeThe start of a new year often comes with pressure—resolutions, goals, and expectations shaped by the world. But what if this year looked different? In this encouraging first episode of the year, we talk about stepping away from unrealistic resolutions and choosing intentional faith instead. This episode invites you to reflect, reset, and realign your priorities with God's purpose rather than cultural standards. You'll hear practical examples of building sustainable spiritual habits, the power of accountability, and how Scripture anchors us through every season. We also explore four biblical ways to glorify God and experience peace—without striving, pressure, or burnout. If you're entering this year seeking clarity, stability, and a deeper walk with Christ, this episode is for you. Scriptures Referenced Philippians 4:6 Psalm 1:1–3 Psalm 23:1–3 Psalm 34:17–19 James 1:5–6 Luke 22:32 Key Takeaways Faithful consistency matters more than lofty resolutions God meets us where we are—not where we think we should be Prioritizing Christ brings clarity, not chaos Peace grows when our focus shifts from metrics to meaning Stay Connected Tiktok@the_native_southerner www.blueskiesareonthehorizon.com
Transcribe →077: Christmas Week When Grief is Heavy
Dec 2200:07:33Tap to summarizeChristmas can be one of the hardest seasons for those navigating loss. In this episode, Angela shares compassionate encouragement for anyone grieving the absence of a loved one during the holidays. With honesty, faith, and grace, this episode offers boundaries, emotional permission, and spiritual hope for holding both grief and meaning at the same time. If you're struggling to smile, celebrate, or even show up this Christmas , this episode reminds you that you're not broken and you're not alone. In this Episode, you'll learn: Why grief often intensifies during Christmas and the holidays How to set boundaries without guilt Practical ways to participate in the season without overwhelming your heart Why it's okay to leave early, say no, or rest Meaningful ways to honor and remember a loved one at Christmas How faith in Christ sustains us when grief feels unbearable The enduring truth that love never ends Scripture Focus: The hope of Christ's birth and the promise of eternal reunion through Him. Support your body this season: During the busy holiday season, dehyration and nutrient depletion are common. Learn more about supportive nutritional supplements at shop.vitalhealthglobal.com/acireland Follow me here: Tiktok@the_native_southerner
Transcribe →076: Walking Through The Memories of the Season
Dec 1500:08:06Tap to summarizeThe holiday season can reopen wounds we thought had healed. In this tender episode of Grief + Grace, Angela reflects on grief during winter, the unexpected memories that surface, and how this quieter season can become a sacred time of healing and preparation for spring. Through personal storytelling, faith, and gentle reflection, this episode offers encouragement for anyone navigating loss during the holidays. In This Episode, You'll Hear: Why the holiday season can intensify grief How winter can be a season of healing, not pressure The importance of setting and sharing boundaries Personal reflections on loss, faith, and hope Questions to help you prepare emotionally and spiritually for spring Key Takeaways: Grief often resurfaces through memories and everyday moments Boundaries are essential for emotional survival during the holidays Winter is not wasted—it can be a season of restoration Faith offers hope beyond loss and assurance beyond pain Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 13:13 Sponsor: VitalHealth Global — supporting your body as you care for your heart Visit: shop.vitalhealthglobal.com/acireland Follow Me: TikTok@the_native_southerner www.blueskiesareonthehorizon.com Listen, Subscribe & Review: If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with someone who may need it.
Transcribe →075: Sitting in Silence — Why Hibernation Is Essential for Grief Healing
Dec 800:09:36Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Grief + Grace, we explore the power of silence, stillness, and spiritual "hibernation" during seasons of grief and transition. Inspired by the natural rhythms of bears in winter, Angela shares how intentional quiet time creates space for emotional healing, clarity, and God-led transformation. You'll learn: Why Jesus often withdrew from people and responsibilities to pray How silence helps you process grief more honestly Why rest is necessary for spiritual, emotional, and physical renewal How pruning—letting go of unhelpful thoughts, habits, or relationships—creates space for future growth How creativity and purpose return when the soul is quiet Why embracing a "winter season" in your life prepares you to bloom in spring Whether you are navigating grief, making difficult decisions, or simply feeling overwhelmed, this episode reminds you that rest is not laziness — it is sacred, necessary, and deeply healing. Find me here: Tiktok@the_native_southerner www.blueskiesareonthehorizon.com my.vitalhealthglobal.com/acireland
Transcribe →074: What Am I Waiting For? | Finding Purpose After Loss, Divorce, and Major Life Transitions
Dec 100:09:57Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt episode of Grief + Grace, Angela reflects on a Thanksgiving trip that sparked a deeply honest conversation with her daughter—and with God. If you've ever found yourself asking, "What am I waiting for?" after a major loss, this episode is for you. Angela opens up about the fear, uncertainty, and restlessness that often follow the death of a loved one, divorce, or any major life transition. With transparency and faith, she shares how God is inviting her to evaluate her environment, her purpose, and the next chapter of her life. Through personal storytelling, biblical encouragement, and reflective questions, Angela helps listeners explore their own seasons of waiting, fear, and spiritual transition. Whether you're feeling stuck, disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, this episode offers compassionate guidance and practical steps to help you seek clarity, pray intentionally, and move forward with courage. What We Discuss in This Episode: What road trips can reveal about your internal world The lingering question of purpose after grief or divorce How fear can quietly freeze your growth Recognizing when a season has ended The role your environment plays in healing Parenting through grief and transition How to discern God's next step for your life Why stepping outside your comfort zone sparks growth Biblical wisdom for seasons of uncertainty and waiting Reflection & Prayer Questions: Am I reacting to a situation or truly discerning God's direction? Is my current environment supporting or hindering my healing? Do I feel connected, joyful, and purposeful? What fears are keeping me from moving forward? How am I honoring God with my life in this season? Have I genuinely invited God into my decision-making? Use these questions during prayer or journaling this week. Scriptures Mentioned: Proverbs 3:5 – Trusting God beyond our own understanding Jeremiah 17:9 – Understanding the limits of our own emotions Episode Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by VitalHealth Global—natural supplements designed to support energy, balance, and vitality. Caring for your body is one more way to offer yourself grace on the healing journey. Learn more at: shop.vitalhealthglobal.com/acireland Connect, Support, and Subscribe If this episode encouraged you, please consider: ⭐ Leaving a 5-star review 💬 Commenting on what resonated with you 🔔 Subscribing so you never miss an episode Your support helps the show reach more people who need hope, healing, and biblical encouragement. Tiktok:@the_native_southerner www.blueskiesareonthehorizon.com
Transcribe →073: Gratitude in Grief: Finding Hope, Healing, and God's Presence in the Hardest Season
Nov 2400:10:50Tap to summarizeIn this powerful and tender episode of Grief + Grace, Angela explores the unexpected relationship between gratitude and grief—especially as we enter the Thanksgiving season. She shares why gratitude does not mean being thankful for loss, but rather recognizing the goodness God gives us even in our darkest hours. Through Scripture, personal testimony, and gentle encouragement, Angela offers practical ways to cultivate gratitude while grieving. Whether you're mourning a loved one, walking through a painful transition, or simply navigating a heavy season, this episode will remind you that God is near, His love endures, and gratitude can be a lifeline for the weary soul. Key Topics Covered: What gratitude really means during grief Why gratitude doesn't dismiss pain or minimize loss How Scripture anchors us in thankfulness The connection between gratitude and emotional + spiritual healing Angela's personal reflections on grieving her son, Ethan Practical methods for practicing gratitude in hard seasons Biblical promises for the hurting heart Scriptures Mentioned: John 16:33 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Psalm 136:1 Psalm 100:4 Psalm 28:6–7 Colossians 3:15 Hebrews 13:5–6 Matthew 11:28 Matthew 5:4 James 1:2–4 Quotes to Remember: "Gratitude doesn't deny grief — it gives us something to hold on to." "We aren't grateful for the loss, but we can be grateful for the love." "God meets us in the places we cannot carry ourselves." Resources Mentioned: VitalHealth Global supplements — Support your energy, balance, and vitality during grief. Learn more: shop.vitalhealthglobal.com/acireland Connect with Angela: TikTok: @the_native_southerner Website: www.blueskiesareonthehorizon.com If this episode blessed you, please leave a review or share it with someone who needs encouragement today.
Transcribe →072: Am I Bitter?
Nov 1000:11:29Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt episode of Grief + Grace, Angela shares a personal update on her new season of life and explores a powerful question: Why do some people become bitter after loss while others find hope? Through Scripture and honest reflection, she invites listeners to replace bitterness with God's healing comfort and the eternal hope found in Christ. Scriptures Mentioned: Psalm 34:18 Psalm 147:3 Matthew 5:4 Psalm 56:8 Proverbs 14:10 Hebrews 12:15 Ephesians 4:31 Psalm 30:5 Romans 15:13 Revelation 21:4 Sponsored by: shop.vitalhealthglobal.com/acireland— Supporting your body as you care for your heart. Tiktok@the_native_southerner
Transcribe →071: When the Tears Stop, What's Next?
Oct 2700:09:31Tap to summarizeGrief changes us — but what happens when the tears finally stop? In this heartfelt episode of Grief + Grace, Angela reflects on what it means to move forward after loss — not to move on, but to take faithful steps toward healing and hope. Through biblical examples from David, Ruth, and Hannah, Angela reminds us that grief doesn't have a timeline and that each person's "next" looks different. Whether you're grieving a loved one, a marriage, or a season of life, you'll find encouragement to look ahead with faith, trusting that your healing is in front of you, not behind you. 💛 In this episode, you'll learn: Why grief looks different for everyone — and that's okay How to know when it's time to move forward after loss The importance of waiting before making major decisions in grief Biblical wisdom from David, Ruth, and Hannah about what happens when the tears stop How faith helps us rebuild life after deep loss 📖 Scripture References: 2 Samuel 12:20–23 Ruth 1 1 Samuel 1 Psalm 73:28 ✨ Key Quote: "Our healing is in front of us, not behind us." If this episode resonated with you, please leave a 5-star review or share it with someone walking through grief. Your feedback helps Grief + Grace reach others who need faith-filled encouragement and hope. 🔗 Subscribe & Connect: Follow Angela @the_native_southerner on Tiktok www.blueskiesareonthehorizon.com
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