Grief, Growth & Keeping It Real: Finding Light After Loss with Zulma Williams

The High-Functioning Disaster

In this final part of my conversation with Zulma Williams — The Swearing Therapist, we explore grief, loss, and finding light in the mess.

Zulma unpacks her definition of grief — “love that has nowhere to go” — and shares how we can honor our loved ones through rituals, laughter, and everyday living. From celebrating the people we’ve lost to giving ourselves permission to cry, she reminds us that healing doesn’t mean forgetting — it means remembering differently.

We also talk about the messy, funny side of being human: dogs interrupting deep moments, family stories, and why humor is one of the most powerful coping tools we have.

If you’ve ever struggled to move forward after loss or guilt, this conversation is an invitation to embrace every part of your story — tears, laughter, and all.

✨ Content Note: This episode includes adult language and candid discussion of topics such as abuse, depression, cancer, and suicidal thoughts. Listener discretion is advised, and please take care of yourself while listening.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone. In the U.S., you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.

Key Takeaways

• 💔 Grief is love that has nowhere to go.
• 🌼 We don’t get over grief — we grow around it.
• 🙏 Healing doesn’t erase pain; it makes space for peace.
• 😂 Humor can coexist with heartbreak.
• ❤️ You deserve joy, even after loss.

Connect:

Where to find Zulma:

• Website: https://www.dragonflytherapyservices.net/
• Follow The Swearing Therapist and Dragonfly Therapy:
• 📱Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/theswearingtherapist]
• 📺YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@theswearingtherapist]
• 📱Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/DragonflyTSLV]
• 📱LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zulma-williams-ab7609214]

✨ Connect with The High-Functioning Disaster:

• 🎙 Guest inquiries: bookings [at] holderhausmedia [dot] com
• 📬 Get in touch: heythere [at] holderhausmedia [dot] com
• 🎙 More episodes & info: [https://the-high-functioning-disaster.captivate.fm/]
• 🎙 Discover more podcasts by Holder Haus Media: [https://holder-haus-media.captivate.fm/]
• 📱 Follow on IG: @thehighfunctioningdisaster [https://instagram.com/thehighfunctioningdisaster]
• 📺 Watch on YouTube: Uploads coming soon! [https://www.youtube.com/@HolderHausMedia]
• 💜 When I’m not podcasting, I’m also a Scentsy Consultant of 10+ years. If you’re into fragrance and cozy vibes, you can find my shop here: [https://sachasmells.com]

Keywords

Zulma Williams, The Swearing Therapist, grief, loss, healing, mental health, trauma recovery, love and loss, resilience, therapy, humor and healing, authentic therapy, Dragonfly Therapy Services

🎧 Next Episode: Next week, we switch gears in a big way. I’ll be joined by Hilary Momberger-Powers — the original voice of Sally Brown from Peanuts — for an inspiring, deeply human conversation about recovery, storytelling, and reclaiming joy.

👉 Make sure you’re subscribed to The High-Functioning Disaster so you don’t miss this next chapter.