Thriving in Grief

In this heartfelt and energizing session, Michelle Bader Ebersole—author, podcaster, and speaker—shares her personal journey of navigating profound grief and hardship after losing her husband of 17 years while raising three teenagers. With humor, warmth, and practical wisdom, Michelle opens up about the moments when faith carried her through life’s darkest valleys and how God remained present even when everything around her seemed to fall apart.
Through stories from her own experience, Michelle provides insight into how you, too, can survive and thrive through your most difficult seasons. She speaks to the challenges of grief, doubt, and emotional exhaustion but also offers hope and strategies to help you stay anchored in faith when storms rage. Attendees will explore:
The Power of Surrender: Letting go of control and trusting God's plan, even when it doesn't make sense.
Finding Joy in the Midst of Grief: Practical ways to cultivate joy, laughter, and gratitude, even in the small things.
Thriving, Not Just Surviving: How to move forward with purpose, faith, and resilience, no matter what life throws your way.
Michelle’s relatable and uplifting approach invites participants to reflect on their struggles with fresh eyes and embrace the promise that “God is close to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18). She emphasizes that every challenge—whether it be grief, illness, or personal loss—has the potential to become a season of growth and renewal.
Attendees will leave with scriptural affirmations, practical tools for building spiritual resilience, and encouragement to step forward in faith, trusting that God is working all things together for good, even when the outcome is unseen (Romans 8:28).
This session will uplift, empower, and energize participants, helping them not only endure but thrive through life’s most difficult moments. Michelle’s infectious passion and joy will inspire everyone to trust God, laugh often, and walk boldly toward the future with hope.

Michelle Bader Ebersole is an author, podcaster, and speaker who was widowed after just 17 years of marriage with three teens. She passionately, with fun, energizes you through insights, stories, and practical strategies so you can survive and thrive in whatever challenge you're going through today.

My husband of 17 years passed away from a rare bone cancer in 2020. I am a mother to three teenagers, and I am a podcaster, speaker, teacher, and author. Currently, I host a podcast called "Widowed 2 Soon," where I share my experiences navigating the challenging journey of widowhood. You can listen to the Podcast by searching for Widowed 2 Soon on any podcast platform.

I am the founder and executive director of Widow Goals, a nonprofit that supports widows. We hold monthly events and retreats and offer social media support as well as scholarships for Grief Recovery classes.

My mission extends beyond helping widows; I aim to support anyone experiencing grief and guide them toward survival and healing. I hold a Master's degree in Education and have a passion for teaching not just children but also adults.

I am the author of a nonfiction book titled "Cancer Can't Crush Us," which details my husband's battle with cancer, and a Christian fiction book called "Paralyzed Joy." I am also writing a book for widows titled "Widow Goals: Steps to Finding Peace When You Lose Your Spouse." During my husband's illness, I found my voice as a speaker, and now I am dedicated to continuing to provide hope and inspiration to others.

I do not have any technical requests.