"There is no timeline for grief—only the courage to feel, heal, and keep walking forward."
In this deeply heartfelt episode, host Stacey sits down with beloved actress and singer Ilene Graff for an intimate conversation about love, loss, and the raw journey of widowhood. Ilene shares poignant stories of her late husband, composer Ben Lanzarone, and the profound partnership they shared in life and music. The conversation unfolds into a powerful exploration of grief, identity, and healing, as Stacey and Ilene connect over their shared experiences of losing their life partners to cancer.
They discuss the unexpected challenges of navigating solo life, reclaiming independence, and rediscovering joy. With warmth, honesty, and even laughter, Ilene offers a touching tribute to Ben while inspiring others to honor their own path through loss. This episode is a testament to resilience, memory, and the enduring power of love.
What You'll Learn:
- The emotional complexities of grief and widowhood
- How Ilene Graff rediscovered herself after the loss of her husband
- The importance of giving yourself grace through the grieving process
- Why creating a new identity after loss is both challenging and freeing
- How music, creativity, and community play a role in healing
- The impact of showing up for yourself, one small step at a time
Ilene Graff is an acclaimed actress, singer, and vocal coach, best known for her role as Marsha Owens on the hit sitcom Mr. Belvedere. With a rich career spanning Broadway, television, and music, Ilene has also taught vocal performance to adults rediscovering their love for music. Married to composer Ben Lanzarone for over 46 years, Ilene now speaks candidly about navigating life after loss while embracing new creative journeys.
Connect with Ilene:
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