Joanna shares the story of losing her husband just months after their marriage—a loss that didn’t just take a partner, but reshaped her entire world. She opens up about experiencing prolonged grief disorder, losing years of her life to trauma, and the physical, emotional, and neurological effects that followed.

This conversation explores:

The reality of grief beyond what society expects
How trauma impacts the body and mind
The loss of identity, faith, and emotional connection
Why “I know how you feel” can be harmful
The importance of sitting with pain instead of trying to fix it

This is not a conversation about “moving on.” It’s about learning to exist again.

Beyond her personal journey, Joanna continues to create across multiple platforms:

🎶 The Occasional Epiphany:
https://ceeteecee.bandcamp.com/album/the-occasional-epiphany

🎙️ The Grin Reapers Club Podcast:
https://open.spotify.com/show/66bwzvlXpuOcdxbk3a2ygo

🎬 Cup a Joe Productions:
https://www.facebook.com/cupajoprod

Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player
Support us on Patreon (ad-free episodes): https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait
Pick up our book:
“Learn to Fish Without Bait: A 365-Day Mindfulness Journal and Adult Coloring Book”
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

The conversation expands into integrity, ethical living, and how actions reveal character more than words ever can. Zeke also opens up about her personal evolution, sharing reflections on transitioning, self-discovery, and navigating a world that isn’t always accepting.

This episode is a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and choosing authenticity in the face of judgment.

Calls to Action:
Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast player.
Support us on Patreon for ad-free episodes: https://www.patreon.com/c/fishingwithoutbait

Pick up our book: Learn to Fish Without Bait
https://www.lulu.com/shop/james-ellermeyer-lpc-ma-ncc-lpc/learn-to-fish-without-bait/paperback/product-6n9rd8.html?page=1&pageSize=4

Together, they revisit the timeless teachings of Jesus, focusing on his central message of love, compassion, and self-discovery — a message that’s often been overshadowed by societal control, rigid traditions, and centuries of interpretation.

We’ll discuss:
• Why spirituality is about personal connection rather than institutional rules.
• The two greatest commandments Jesus taught and why they free us from fear.
• Insights from alternative gospels like Thomas and Mary Magdalene that emphasize the divine spark within.
• How to embrace mindfulness, self-validation, and inner freedom in your daily life.

Jim challenges us to see the divine within ourselves and others, and to choose kindness, forgiveness, and mindful living as a way of nurturing that spark.

🎧 Join us on a journey toward living without definitive expectations — where true freedom lies in love, compassion, and understanding.

Visit FishingWithoutBait.com to listen to more episodes, share your thoughts, and explore ways to live fully in the moment.