Season 368 Episode 12278

S2 Ep2 - Choosing Joy Over Hurt with Sam Manly

In this deeply moving episode of Embracing Life Again, Catherine Kaufer sits down with the courageous and inspiring Sam Manly, a speaker whose journey through loss, depression, and self-discovery shines as a testament to the power of faith, community, and inner strength. Sam bravely opens up about losing her brother and the overwhelming grief that followed—a grief that left her battling severe depression, unhealthy habits, and a sense of hopelessness. She candidly shares how she sought refuge in sugary foods, using them as a temporary comfort, and how she eventually realized that what we consume—both physically and mentally —affects our overall well-being. Her turning point came through an invitation to a Celebrate Recovery (CR) group at her church, where she discovered "her people"—a supportive community that reminded her of the light and hope she had been searching for. Through faith, scripture, and vulnerability, Sam found her way back to life, honoring her brother’s memory while choosing joy and purpose each day. Catherine and Sam also dive into important topics such as co-dependency, relinquishing control, overcoming rumination, and the transformative power of trusting God. Sam reflects on her father’s emotional unavailability, shaped by his time serving in Vietnam, and how those experiences influenced her understanding of relationships and expectations. This episode isn’t just a story of survival—it’s a roadmap for anyone seeking to heal, rebuild, and embrace life again after loss. Sam’s raw honesty and heartfelt wisdom will remind you that even in brokenness, beautiful things can grow. Tune in for a conversation that will inspire, uplift, and remind you of the unyielding power of hope. #EmbracingLifeAgain #HealingJourney #GriefSupport #FaithAndHealing #OvercomingDepression #SelfAwareness #InspirationalStory #MentalHealthAwareness #PodcastCommunity #Resilience #HealingThroughFaith #LettingGo #TrustingGod