Episode Summary
In Part 1 of a powerful conversation with Kaitlin Palmieri, Kaitlin recounts two devastating losses: the drowning of her boyfriend Mike at her 30th birthday and the sudden death of her fiancé Eric on their wedding day. Then, three years later, Kaitlin discovered another unimaginable truth: her fiancé Eric was living a secret double life with other women.
The episode explores shock, grief, betrayal, and the long, complicated road toward healing.
Raw and honest, this episode offers a glimpse into what it takes to keep going after unimaginable events and reminds listeners that healing is always possible.
Episode Sponsored by The HelpHUB™
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Key Topics
• Kaitlin Palmieri's experience of losing her fiancé Mike on her 30th birthday
• The discovery of her fiancé's double life and betrayal in 2018
• Her journey through grief, trauma, and healing over the years
• The impact of her story going viral and sharing her truth
• The importance of community, connection, and self-love in recovery
• Her reflections on trust, betrayal, and forgiveness
• The role of therapy and support groups in her healing process
• Her current life with her husband Sean and moving forward
Topics
• Sharing your story can be a powerful step in healing
• Community and connection are vital in overcoming trauma
• Trusting your instincts is crucial in abusive or manipulative situations
• Healing is a non-linear process that requires patience and self-compassion
• Allowing yourself to grieve fully is essential for true healing
• Survivors can find love and happiness again after tragedy
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Kaitlin's extraordinary story
04:07 - The day Kaitlin's fiancé Mike tragically died
12:09 - Discovering the betrayal and double life of Mike
19:56 - Kaitlin's journey through grief, trauma, and healing
29:56 - The viral story and sharing her truth
39:57 - Her relationship with Sean and finding love again
49:57 - Reflections on trust, betrayal, and resilience
01:00 - The message of survival and community
Mental Health Resources
• If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988 for help.
• The Survivors Podcast Website – https://thesurvivors.net/
• National Domestic Violence Hotline – Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7223)
• Surviving: Finding Hope After Suicide Loss (Familius Books) (https://a.co/d/00Zthp5f)
• The HelpHUB™ – Mental health resources, tools, and support networks – https://www.thehelphub.co/
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See you next week! In the meantime, keep surviving.