In this episode of Surthrival, Stacia explores the unexpectedly profound truth behind the phrase “making lemonade.” What begins as a story involving drawing of a lemon tree at a prayer session unfolds into a powerful reflection on how God transforms the most bitter seasons of grief into new beginnings. Through examples from her own life, past guests, local ministries, and even a chance encounter at a diner, Stacia shows how pain can be reshaped into compassion, purpose, and healing. She also shares the story behind the upcoming Creative Healing Retreat, a space designed for women longing to move from surviving to rebuilding with creativity, community, and intention. This is an episode for anyone feeling stuck as a reminder that with openness and courage, bitter experiences can truly be transformed into something nourishing and life-giving. To learn more about the Creative Healing Retreat, visit carriepittman.com/retreats.

Sponsored by: Lisa Worley of Anchored Life - https://anchoredlife.services

In this episode, Stacia continues the Remembrance series with Author Beth Miller for a powerful conversation on grief, gratitude, and the tension that exists between the two. Together, they explore the dangers of spiritual bypassing, the “both/and” reality of healing, and the profound metaphor of "black fire" and "white fire". Beth shares her own experiences with loss, which led her to write the book What Loss Can Teach Us, a novel that explores the ways grief can expand us rather than diminish us.

Today's Guest: Beth Miller

Sponsored by: Kim Marie Carter in memory of her father, Jack Carter

Two creative theologians dive deep into The Last Supper (Communion) as it relates to grief and remembering. We learn a new term, anamnesis, which means calling to mind to look toward the future.

Today's Guest(s): Dr. Shaun King, Senior Pastor, John’s Creek Baptist Church, Alpharetta, GA & Milton Brasher-Cunningham, clergy and author, Mount Carmel Congregational Church, Hamden, CT

Sponsored by: In memory of Jack Carter

n this episode, Charlotte Cushing Cearley recounts the sudden loss of her husband upon their return to the United States after a lifetime spent serving in Africa. Recently, Charlotte invited her two sisters to accompany her on a special birthday trip of remembrance to Africa, revisiting one of the places she and her husband lived and worked. Her story highlights the comfort and healing that come from shared journeys and familial support in times of grief.

Sponsored by: In memory of Sandy Cook’s Mom

Guest(s): Madison Gaines Norwood, daughter

Stacia and her daughter talk about how they’ve remembered their husband and father. Furthermore, they explore the customs of mourning they experienced while living in China which included “hungry ghosts”.

Sponsored by: Chris Winchester In memory of Matt Gaines, beloved husband and father

Meryeum Tunagur-Williams and Angel Torres share their honest and heartfelt thoughts about the things that helped them grieve and the things that didn’t help.

Sponsored by: Gina Faletta, State Farm Agent

Rabbi Steven Henkin of Temple Beth El in Birmingham, AL discusses sitting shiva which is a Jewish tradition where mourners gather for seven days after a funeral, surrounded by family and friends. This ritual offers comfort, structure, and community support, helping those who grieve to process their loss and begin healing together.

Sponsored by: Kim Lefelar (best friend) in honor of her mom, Marlene Burns

Today's guest: Chris O'Rear, an ordained minister, licensed clinical pastoral therapist, shares practical tips that help you form stronger friendships, navigate conflicts and support loved ones through tough times.

Sponsored by Chris Winchester, best boss, in honor of my husband, Matt Gaines.