Feeling festive? In this episode, Jonathan and I are sitting down for a Christmas catch-up to wrap up two incredible years of Widowed AF. We’re taking a moment to reflect on what the podcast has meant to us, the changes we made this year, and—most importantly—the impact your messages and feedback have had. Honestly, we couldn’t do this without you.

We’re chatting about life as a blended family (it’s messy, but we wouldn’t have it any other way), the emotional challenges of recording episodes, and how we navigate grief during the holidays. It’s not always easy, is it? But you’re not alone in it—we’re right here with you.

We’ve also got some exciting plans brewing for next year, and we’d love to hear from you. What do you want to hear more of? What’s helped you most? Drop us a message and let us know. In the meantime, grab a mince pie, pop on your cosiest socks, and join us for this warm (and slightly rambling) end-of-year chat.

Chapters
[00:00] Festive Welcome
[07:15] Blended Family Life
[12:45] Grief During the Holidays
[22:30] Looking Ahead to 2025
[28:15] Closing Thoughts and Festive Farewell

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

Episode Overview
Content Warning: This episode discusses themes of murder, trauma, and grief that may be triggering for some listeners.

In this episode of Widowed AF, Rosie Gill-Moss speaks with Katrina Smith about the traumatic night her husband was murdered in their home. Katrina shares her harrowing experience of losing her husband, Josh, during a home invasion, exploring profound grief, loss, and trauma.

The discussion not only highlights the emotional turmoil that accompanies such a devastating event but also addresses the failures of law enforcement in responding to domestic violence situations. Through her story, Katrina emphasises the critical importance of victim advocacy, providing listeners with valuable insights into the complexities of navigating life after such a tragedy.

Episode Timeline

• [00:00] Introduction
• [00:16] Content warning and episode context
• [01:00] Katrina's background and relationship with Josh
• [05:00] The night of the murder
• [10:00] Police response and aftermath
• [20:00] Legal proceedings and frustrations
• [30:00] Healing and therapy
• [40:00] Advocacy work and support for victims
• [50:00] Reflections on love and loss

Key Topics

• The impact of sudden loss
• The role of law enforcement in domestic violence cases
• Navigating grief and trauma recovery
• The importance of victim advocacy
• Personal growth and finding love after loss

About Katrina

Katrina Smith is an advocate for victims' rights and a survivor of violent crime. She shares her story to raise awareness and support for others who have experienced similar tragedies.

Contact Information

• Widowed AF: @widowedafpodcast
• Katrina Smith: please contact the show
• Website: Widowed AF Podcast

Support Organisations

• Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice: Provides resources and advocacy for crime victims.(https://cssj.org/)

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)

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In this special episode, Rosie Gill-Moss shares her reaction to the historic news that the UK Parliament has voted in favour of legalising assisted dying. Recorded just hours after hearing the announcement, Rosie reflects on the significance of this decision, drawing from personal stories shared on Widowed AF and the emotional conversations that shaped the podcast’s early episodes.

As the host of Widowed AF, Rosie has spoken with over 100 individuals about some of the darkest times of their lives, often compounded by the suffering they have witnessed. She questions, “Why are we denied dignity and autonomy at the end of our lives, when we value them above almost all else?”

While end-of-life care is often excellent, it does not alleviate all suffering. Rosie explores the deeply personal choice of assisted dying, the fear and dignity involved, and the relief this new law may provide to those facing terminal diagnoses. “None of us can predict how we might feel when facing a terminal diagnosis,” Rosie states. “I personally want this option to be available. I can’t say if I would use it, but I know I want the choice.”

Tune in for a deeply personal and thought-provoking commentary on this historic moment of compassion, choice, and dignity.

Key Topics:

The emotional impact of the vote

Reflections on stories shared in Widowed AF episodes “Dignity” and “Thought-Provoking AF”

Why dignity and autonomy matter at the end of life

Related Episodes:

Episode 11: Dignity - Anonymous Guest

Episode 12: Thought-Provoking AF

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram @widowedAF
• Email: theshow at widowedAF.com
• Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)
• Watch on (YouTube)