What do you do when life takes a turn you never asked for? When the diagnosis, the betrayal, the loss, or the slow unraveling of your plans leaves you feeling like the wrong person for the job?

In this deeply personal and compassionate episode, Dr. Zoe reads a letter to anyone facing a life they didn’t expect. Originally written for an anthology, this letter was adapted for anyone navigating life-changing pain, disorientation, or shame. Whether you’re in the midst of grief, struggling with a sudden shift in identity, or simply wondering how to move forward this episode is a lifeline.

You'll hear:

-Why shame, guilt, and blame aren't yours to carry
-How real bravery can look like breaking down, not holding it all together
-The truth about phantom critics and inner comparison
-A gentle invitation to stop fighting for the past and start building from the now
-Why acceptance isn’t giving up—it’s grieving forward

This is for the woman who is tired of pretending she’s fine. For the one who needs someone to say, “You are not broken.” For anyone who needs a breath, a moment, and a reminder: You’ve got this.

Resources & Links:

Sign up for the newsletter: www.drzoeshaw.com

Preorder the book Stronger in the Difficult Places (coming September 30, 2025!): drzoeshaw.com/book

Last call to join the Stronger in the Difficult Places Launch Team ( closing July 31st!): join now

Free Downloads:

Download the Steps to Healing from Complex Shame™ PDF: here
Get the First Chapter of Stronger in the Difficult Places: here

Connect with me:

Dr. Zoe Shaw on Instagram

Dr. Zoe Shaw on Facebook

Dr. Zoe Shaw Website

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If this episode moved you, helped you, or made you feel a little less alone, would you take a moment to leave a review? It helps more brave souls find this space of healing.