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Some relationships are built over decades—through shared struggles, deep understanding, and the kind of connection that only comes from walking a similar path.

In this episode of The Lost Love Stories, I sit down with my dear friend Margarete Cassalina. We met over 20 years ago through the cystic fibrosis community, both raising children with the same diagnosis. And like so many relationships formed in hard places, ours became something lasting and deeply meaningful.

Today, we talk about her daughter, Jena.

Margarete doesn’t say Jena “died.” She says Jena moved up. And as you listen, you begin to understand why.

Jena was vibrant, strong-willed, and wise far beyond her 13 years. What she left behind isn’t just memories—it’s a presence that Margarete still feels every day.

This conversation isn’t just about loss—it’s about what comes after.

You’ll hear the moment everything shifted for Margarete and how, from that point on, Jena became someone who is, not someone who was.

We talk about signs, connection, and what Margarete calls “love from above”—from pennies that appear at just the right moment to the quiet ways our people remind us they’re still with us.

But more than anything, this episode is about how we choose to live.

Jena once said:

“I’m not going to ruin today because I’m worried about tomorrow.”

And that wisdom becomes the heartbeat of this conversation.
If you’ve ever wondered how to keep going… how to honor the ones you love… or how to find meaning inside grief—this episode is for you.

Because love never ends.

It just changes form.

To learn more about Margarete and all that she does, please visit:

https://margaretecassalina.com/

https://margaretecassalinaauthor.com/

https://africanmissionhealthcare.org/

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Margarete-Cassalina/author/B0128JFWTE?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1774553578&sr=8-1&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

https://fundraise.cff.org/CentralNYXtremehike2026/Cassalina

Watch the podcast video:

https://youtu.be/0N09JWZNoms

Email thelostlovestories@gmail.com with comments, questions or to be considered as a guest on show.

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BONUS episode: this is an episode I recorded for my first podcast attempt in 2022 but wanted to share because it's a really important topic...and because it's my sister's incredible story of battling food addiction, mental health and weight loss from 440lbs to 220 (currently 170!).

Kylee Fulton shares her personal journey with food, weight, and health after going losing over 200 pounds. She courageously explores the deep emotional and psychological aspects of eating habits, dieting, and body image and offers insights into overcoming food addiction, the impact of societal perceptions on those who are overweight and the importance of self-care and acceptance.

#food #addiction #weightloss #gastricsleevejourney #bodyimage #diet #selfimprovement #mentalhealth #health #bariatricsurgery #healthjourney journey #bodyacceptance #emotionaleating #selfworth #gastricsleeve

Watch this episode on Youtube:

https://youtu.be/SOrqT7a-aDc

Email thelostlovestories@gmail.com with comments, questions or to be considered as a guest on show.

Send a text

Navigating Love and Loss: Monika Meacham's Journey Through Grief, Resilience, and Leadership

In this enlightening episode, Monika shares her powerful story of love, loss, and strength following the sudden passing of her husband Gabe. Her insights into navigating grief, balancing family dynamics, and leading with authenticity are inspiring for anyone facing life's hardest challenges. Monika lost her job one week before Gabe's passing so she suddenly found herself with two young children and another headed off to college while going from a two income household to no income at all. While interviewing, she quickly discovered the hidden biases that many employers have when it comes to welcoming widows into the workplace.

This episode offers profound insights into embracing grief, leadership, and living with authentic purpose. Whether you're navigating personal loss or supporting others, Monika’s story is a testament to resilience, compassion, and reclaiming joy amidst adversity.

Resources & Links:

Connect with Monika:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monikameacham/

Monika's Authentic Leadership Engine:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/monikameacham_most-leadership-conversations-focus-on-outcomes-activity-7414297251826515968-rDo_?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAADgN0TIB0JHXxHXkfOvlrFAnDilpPNd25Yc

Watch this episode on Youtube:

https://youtu.be/k7IxLcgFkls

#podcast #resilience #widow #widowhood #grief #loss #interview #leadership #leadershipdevelopment

Email thelostlovestories@gmail.com with comments, questions or to be considered as a guest on show.