Episode Notes

Rosie is joined by Leslie Harter-Berg, author of You Are So Strong, to talk about sudden loss, solo parenting, and rebuilding a life you never asked for.

Leslie’s husband Ryan died unexpectedly in 2019 after suffering an aneurysm and stroke while they were on a family holiday. He was 34. They had two very young children. One moment they were by the pool, the next, everything had changed.

They talk about the reality of those early days. Telling your children their dad has died. Coming home without him. The strange, relentless practicalities of grief. And why being told “you are so strong” can feel completely off the mark.

They also talk about what comes next. Finding love again. Building a blended family. Raising children who grieve in very different ways. And holding both joy and devastation at the same time.

Leslie shares how her book came to be, and how writing it felt less like revisiting trauma and more like spending time with Ryan again.

About Leslie's Book

Title: You Are So Strong: On Grief and Letting Go of My Favourite Compliment Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Kindle, and Audible (narrated by Leslie herself)

Where to Find Leslie

• Instagram: @lesliehartberg

• Nonprofit: Bids for Wids (sharing widows' stories)

Where to Find Rosie

• Podcast: Widowed AF

• Book: Rosie's memoir (published on the anniversary of Ben's death)

Content Note

This episode discusses sudden bereavement, young widowhood, children's grief, and the death of a spouse. If you have been affected by any of the topics discussed, you can reach out to Rosie or Leslie directly via their social channels.