In this deeply moving and insightful episode of Full Circle, I sit down with United States Army veteran, widow, and author Deborah R. Hamm to explore what it truly means to support ourselves and others through grief.

Drawing from her military background, faith, and lived experience with profound loss, Deborah shares the story behind her book Military Strong, Widow Brave: A Heart Speaks. Her approach blends structure and discipline with warmth and compassion—offering a much-needed roadmap for navigating the long, complex terrain of grief.

Deborah reminds us that grief is not something to “get over.” Instead, it’s a journey that can deepen our empathy, awaken our strength, and even lead us to renewed purpose. Whether you're grieving yourself or trying to support someone through loss, this conversation is filled with heart, healing, and practical guidance.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• Deborah’s personal journey through loss and how it inspired her to write Military Strong, Widow Brave

• Why grief isn’t something to fix, but a process to honor and walk through

• The role of military discipline and faith in helping navigate loss

• Common mistakes people make when trying to support the grieving—and how to do better

• Age-appropriate ways to support grieving children and teens

• How churches, workplaces, and communities can create grief-sensitive environments

• The importance of presence over perfection when comforting someone in mourning

• How grief can lead to meaningful growth, compassion, and a deeper understanding of life

"Grief isn’t a journey that makes us smaller—it’s a profound transformation that can deepen our capacity for compassion, strengthen our resilience, and expand our understanding of life’s fragile beauty."

• Book: Military Strong, Widow Brave: A Heart Speaks by Deborah Renee’ Hamm

• Website: https://www.drhamm-author.com/home