Travel Thru Grief

Travel Thru Grief

by Ellen Beckemeyer

Mental Health Places & Travel

Season 1

How to Pack When You're Emotionally Heavy

Travel Thru Grief Podcast How to Pack When You're Emotionally Heavy National Roadie Day Episode What do roadies, caregivers, grieving hearts, and emotionally exhausted people all have in common? They carry a lot. In this National Roadie Day episode of Travel thru Grief, Ellen Beckemeyer explores the emotional weight many people quietly move through while still continuing to show up for life. Inspired by the unseen labor of road crews and backstage workers, this episode reflects on: emotional overload invisible responsibility burnout and survival mode carrying grief while still functioning loneliness inside busy lives the pressure of constantly setting up, tearing down, and moving forward “How to Pack When You’re Emotionally Heavy” is a conversation about learning what we carry, what we were never meant to carry alone, and how movement sometimes helps us survive difficult seasons. This episode also honors the roadies and crews behind concerts, tours, productions, and performances everywhere. Thank you for the work you do behind the scenes. 🎙 Travel thru Grief Podcast Hosted by Ellen Beckemeyer Find Your Way Forward. #TravelThruGrief #NationalRoadieDay #EmotionalHealing #GriefJourney #InvisibleWorkload #BurnoutRecovery #StartingOver #HealingPodcast #Roadies #MentalHealthSupport

When Home Feels Different. My Story

In this deeply personal episode, Ellen shares the story behind Travel thru Grief — not just the brand, but the life experiences, losses, transitions, quiet dreams, and emotional landscapes that shaped it. This is not a story about having all the answers. It is a story about surviving, remembering, rebuilding, and learning how to move forward without leaving yourself behind. From growing up in Kentucky to working on the Belle of Louisville, from carrying stories that were almost forgotten to creating a space where grief and hope can exist together, Ellen opens the door to the heart of Travel thru Grief. If you have ever felt like life changed and nobody noticed… if you have ever looked around and realized you were carrying memories that only you still remember… this episode is for you. Because sometimes healing begins the moment someone finally says: "I’ve been there before." In This Episode Why Travel thru Grief was created The quiet forms grief can take What happens when stories disappear with the people who held them Feeling emotionally displaced while the world keeps moving The connection between travel, perspective, and healing Why movement does not always mean leaving home Creating meaning after identity shifts and loss The difference between fixing yourself and finding your way forward Building a legacy before memories fade Key Reflections “Grief doesn’t always arrive the way people expect it to.” “The world keeps going. So can you.” “You don’t need fixing. You need a way forward.” “You don’t have to leave yourself to move forward.” “I realized I was becoming the keeper of stories that could disappear forever if I never spoke them out loud.” “Travel thru Grief was born from the space between remembering and becoming.” Mentioned in the Episode Travel thru Grief Lighthouse symbolism and finding your way forward Bridges as emotional transitions Kentucky roots and the Belle of Louisville The idea of emotional movement instead of pressure Creating a life that honors both memory and possibility Gentle Invitation If this episode resonated with you, you are invited to continue the journey. Finding Your Way Again A 5-day guided experience for women navigating grief, transition, identity shifts, and starting over. You do not need to have everything figured out. You only need a place to begin again. Connect with Ellen Beckemeyer & Travel thru Grief Podcast: Travel thru Grief Instagram/Facebook: Travel thru Grief Listener Reflection Prompt What part of your story still deserves to be spoken, remembered, or carried forward? Closing Thought There are moments in life when we realize we are standing on the bridge between who we were and who we are becoming. This podcast is for those moments. And if you are here… there is a reason.

The Whisper That Started It All

Travel thru Grief was created for people navigating loss, life transitions, identity shifts, and the quiet experience of trying to find themselves again after life changes. Through storytelling, perspective shifts, travel, reflection, and honest conversations, this podcast explores what it means to move forward without abandoning yourself in the process. Episode 0 is the beginning of that journey. A gentle conversation about grief, change, emotional exhaustion, and the small whispers that tell us it may still be possible to reconnect with hope, meaning, and renewed life. 🎙 Listen and read the transcript here:https://ellenbeckemeyer.substack.com/p/the-whisper-that-started-it-allNew episodes and reflections will continue weekly. Thank you for being here at the beginning.— Ellen EMail: travelthrugrief@gmail.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18zUmKD4av/ Substack https://ellenbeckemeyer.substack.com/p/the-whisper-that-started-it-all?r=39dd9n

Mayflower Day, not the journey they expected

Mayflower Day: What We Carry and What We Leave Behind Mayflower Day remembers the ship’s departure from Plymouth, England, in September 1620. Although its passengers were traveling toward an uncertain future, their journey also began with a profound act of leaving. Grief creates its own kind of departure. We may leave behind a shared home, familiar routines, old expectations, or the version of ourselves that existed before the loss. We do not leave because the love no longer matters. We leave because life has changed, and remaining exactly where we were is no longer possible. In this bonus episode of Travel Thru Grief, Ellen reflects on: The emotional weight of leaving something familiar Moving forward without erasing the life that came before What we choose to carry into an uncertain future The difference between abandoning the past and continuing the journey Allowing healing to unfold without demanding a complete destination Every journey toward healing begins with leaving something behind. Yet we are still allowed to carry the love, memories, lessons, and relationships that helped shape us. To inquire about working with Ellen, visit her Paperbell page: https://paperbell.me/ellen-beckemeyer Questions or episode reflections may be sent to: TravelThruGrief@gmail.com

9/11 Twenty Five Years. WE STILL REMEMBER

September 11: We Remember Bonus Episode September 11 remains a day of collective grief, courage, and remembrance. In this bonus episode of Travel Thru Grief, Ellen reflects on the lives lost, the families whose grief never ended with the news cycle, and the helpers who moved toward danger when others were trying to escape. Remembering is not only about returning to the tragedy. It is also about honoring the humanity revealed in its aftermath—the bravery of first responders, the compassion of strangers, and the ways people supported one another during an unimaginable time. More than two decades later, September 11 still holds different meanings for different people. Some carry vivid personal memories of that morning. Others grew up hearing the stories. Many continue to live with loss, trauma, health consequences, and unanswered questions. Today, we pause without trying to simplify what happened. We remember the individuals behind the numbers, honor those who served and sacrificed, and recognize the courage it takes to keep living after life changes forever. Out of tragedy, may hope continue to rise—not by forgetting, but by carrying memory forward with compassion. In This Episode Honoring those who died on September 11, 2001 Remembering the first responders, helpers, survivors, and families Recognizing the lasting nature of collective and personal grief Reflecting on unity, courage, and human connection Choosing remembrance that inspires compassion and service We carry their memory in our hearts. We carry their courage in our lives. We will never forget. Connect with Travel Thru Grief To inquire about working with Ellen, visit https://paperbell.me/ellen-beckemeyer or email travelthrugrief@gmail.com. Please follow, share, and leave a review wherever you listen. Your support helps more people find a path toward healing, hope, and themselves.

Grief Awareness Day meets Beach Day

A Special Bonus Episode: Grief Awareness Day & Beach Day Two observances share the calendar today: National Grief Awareness Day and National Beach Day. At first, they may seem unrelated. Yet the shoreline offers an honest setting for talking about grief—where the ground shifts, the waves arrive without permission, and the horizon reminds us that life extends beyond what we can currently see. In this special bonus episode of Travel Thru Grief, Ellen reflects on what the beach can teach us about living with loss. Grief has its own rhythm. Some days feel calm and manageable. Others arrive with enough force to knock us off balance. Healing does not require us to control every wave. It asks us to recognize what is happening, steady ourselves, and continue when we are ready. This episode also honors the importance of grief awareness. People who are grieving do not need to be rushed, corrected, or pressured to return to who they were before their loss. They need room to speak honestly, receive support, and discover what life can become from here. In this episode: Why grief awareness still matters What the changing shoreline can teach us about loss The difference between moving forward and leaving someone behind How rest, reflection, and beauty can coexist with sorrow The value of feeling safe, seen, and supported You are not failing because grief continues to visit. You are learning how to meet it from a different place. Ready for personal support as you navigate life after loss or another major transition? Explore coaching with Ellen at https://paperbell.me/ellen-beckemeyer Questions or thoughts about the episode? Email travelthrugrief@gmail.com Travel Thru Grief is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow the show so you do not miss future Tuesday episodes and special bonus releases.

National Accessible Air Travel Day

National Accessible Air Travel Day: Travel Should Be About the Journey, Not the Barriers Air travel can already feel stressful, exhausting, and emotionally overwhelming. For travelers living with disabilities, chronic illnesses, mobility limitations, sensory needs, or other accessibility concerns, the journey may include additional obstacles long before the plane ever leaves the ground. In this special bonus episode of Travel Thru Grief, we recognize National Accessible Air Travel Day and the travelers, caregivers, airport employees, airline professionals, and advocates working to make air travel more dignified, inclusive, and compassionate. Accessibility is not a special favor. It is what allows more people to explore the world, visit loved ones, attend important events, seek new experiences, and remain connected to the lives they want to live. In this episode, we explore: Why accessible travel matters at every stage of the journey The physical and emotional challenges travelers may face in airports How mobility assistance and accessible services can open the world Why dignity, patience, respect, and clear communication matter The importance of listening instead of making assumptions How caregivers and travel companions help make journeys possible The difference small acts of kindness can make during a stressful trip Why accessibility ultimately creates a better travel experience for everyone Travel should not be limited by unnecessary barriers. When those barriers are removed, we do more than open doors—we open possibilities. Thank you to the travelers who continue to advocate for what they need, the caregivers who travel beside them, and the professionals who help make air travel safer, more accessible, and more compassionate every day. Continue Your Journey Are you moving through grief, change, or a major life transition and wondering what comes next? Explore coaching opportunities with Ellen Beckemeyer at: https://paperbell.me/ellen-beckemeyer You may also reach Ellen at: travelthrugrief@gmail.com Subscribe to Travel Thru Grief so you never miss an episode or special bonus conversation. A Path to Healing. Find Hope. Find You.

National Aviation Day

National Aviation Day: Cleared for Takeoff Bonus Show — August 19 Airplanes do more than carry us from one destination to another. They carry dreams, goodbyes, reunions, fresh starts, and sometimes the courage to begin again. In this National Aviation Day bonus episode, Ellen reflects on the wonder of flight and the way air travel changes our perspective—both literally and emotionally. From the anticipation of arriving at the airport to the moment the plane rises above the clouds, flying reminds us that there is often more waiting for us beyond what we can currently see. Travel after grief can feel complicated. A familiar airport, an empty seat, a destination once shared with someone we love, or even the simple act of packing a suitcase can bring memories rushing back. Yet travel can also become part of healing. It can help us reconnect with possibility, experience the world differently, and recognize that moving forward does not mean leaving love behind. In this episode: Why aviation continues to inspire wonder and adventure How flying can offer a new perspective on life The emotions connected to airports, departures, and arrivals Why travel after loss may feel both painful and hopeful How new journeys can coexist with treasured memories The courage it sometimes takes to spread your wings again Why one step, one breath, and one flight at a time is enough Some of the most beautiful views come after the hardest climbs. Wherever you are on your journey, you are allowed to move at your own pace, explore new horizons, and create experiences that belong to the life you are living now. You are cleared for takeoff. Connect with Ellen Learn more about Ellen’s coaching and schedule a conversation through Paperbell: https://paperbell.me/ellen-beckemeyer Email: travelthrugrief@gmail.com Listen, follow, and share Travel Thru Grief with someone who may need the reminder that healing does not require forgetting—and that another meaningful journey may still be ahead.

National Lighthouse Day: The Light That Helps Us Find Our Way

National Lighthouse Day: The Light That Helps Us Find Our Way Lighthouses have always represented more than a structure standing beside the water. They are symbols of guidance, endurance, safety, and hope. They do not remove the storm or calm the waves. They simply keep shining so that those traveling through darkness can find their way. In this special National Lighthouse Day episode of Travel Thru Grief, Ellen reflects on what lighthouses can teach us about grief, healing, and becoming a steady source of light for ourselves and others. In This Episode Why lighthouses remain powerful symbols of hope and direction The difference between rescuing someone and helping them see the way forward How grief can leave us feeling lost, disoriented, or far from shore Why healing does not require us to eliminate every storm The people, places, memories, and practices that have served as lighthouses in our lives How we can become our own source of steadiness and reassurance The importance of continuing to shine, even when we cannot see who may be helped by our light Remembering that a lighthouse does not chase ships—it remains grounded and visible Giving ourselves permission to rest without believing our light has gone out Reflection Questions Who has been a lighthouse for you during a difficult season? What helps you feel grounded when life becomes uncertain? Where are you still looking outside yourself for direction? What truth could serve as your guiding light right now? How might your story help someone else feel less alone? A Whisper of Permission You do not have to calm the entire ocean. You do not have to rescue everyone who is struggling. You are allowed to stand firmly where you are, tend to your own light, and trust that your presence matters. There is a way through. Connect with Ellen Learn more about coaching and schedule a session with Ellen: https://paperbell.me/ellen-beckemeyer Email: travelthrugrief@gmail.com Follow and share Travel Thru Grief with someone who may need a little light along their journey.

National Cheer Up the Lonely Day

National Cheer Up the Lonely Day July 11 Bonus Episode Loneliness isn't always visible. Sometimes it's the widow sitting alone at dinner. Sometimes it's the coworker who quietly eats lunch by themselves. Sometimes it's the neighbor whose lights never seem to have visitors. And sometimes...it's us. In this special bonus episode of Travel thru Grief, we're celebrating National Cheer Up the Lonely Day by exploring the incredible power of simple acts of kindness. You don't have to solve someone's problems. You don't have to have the perfect words. Often, a text message... A phone call... A handwritten note... A smile... Or simply letting someone know they matter... ...can change the course of an entire day. If you've been grieving, you know what it feels like when someone remembers you. You also know how healing it can be to become that person for someone else. Today's episode is an invitation to look beyond ourselves—not to ignore our own grief, but to discover that compassion has a remarkable way of creating connection for everyone involved. Kindness doesn't erase pain. But it reminds us that none of us were meant to carry it alone. Because kindness connects us all. Reflection Questions Who comes to mind when you think of someone who may be lonely today? What small act of kindness could you offer this week? When was the last time someone unexpectedly made your day? How might reaching out also bring healing to your own heart? Today's Kindness Ideas ❤️ Send a thoughtful text. ❤️ Make a phone call. ❤️ Leave an encouraging note. ❤️ Bring someone a smile. ❤️ Tell someone why they matter. If today's episode encouraged you, please follow Travel thru Grief, share it with someone who may need a little extra kindness, and leave a review. Every share helps this message reach someone who may be feeling alone. Until next time... Keep traveling through. ❤️

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