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EP: 040 Navigating Widowhood w/ Paula Harris

EP: 040 Navigating Widowhood w/ Paula Harris

This week on the Modern Financial Wellness podcast, we’re exploring an incredibly important and nuanced topic: how grief and loss, particularly widowhood, impact financial well-being. This is a subject that’s both deeply personal and highly relevant to anyone supporting loved ones through life’s most challenging transitions.

Joining me for this powerful conversation is Paula Harris, co-founder of WH Cornerstone Investments. Paula brings a remarkable, holistic approach to financial planning, blending her human resources background, four decades of experience in the industry, and an unwavering commitment to guiding midlife widowed women.

5 Key Takeaways:

Grief is a Transition, Not a Transaction:

Widowhood is not a box to check or a list to complete. It radically alters a person’s life, and society’s urge to “move on” too quickly can be hurtful. Recognize that your client, friend, or family member is fundamentally changed and needs time, space, and support.

Meet People Where They Are—Emotionally and Financially:

Paula emphasizes the importance of tuning into where someone is on their grief journey, whether they’re overwhelmed and can’t face paperwork, or eager to take action to feel in control. There’s no “right” way to grieve—advisors and supporters need to be flexible and compassionate.

Immediate Financial Needs Come First (“Financial Triage”):

In the initial aftermath of loss, focus on what’s urgent—paying for funerals, accessing cash, stopping predatory sales pitches. Delay major financial decisions when possible and give people time before making permanent changes.

Support, Community, and Connection Are Essential:

Isolation worsens grief. Paula highlights organizations like Modern Widows Club and Wings for Widows that offer connection and resources. Even simple community events, handwritten notes, or encouragement to join widow support groups can have a profound impact.

Review and Update Financial Documents and Beneficiaries Quickly:

Getting estate plans, insurance beneficiaries, and account titles updated is critical after a loss. Outdated or incorrect paperwork can have devastating, irreversible effects. Be proactive and encourage widows (and widowers) to seek trustworthy, fiduciary advice—especially as some financial “professionals” may have hidden agendas.

You can watch the full video of our conversation on YouTube here:

You can also find the audio versions on places like Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever else you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Make sure to check out Paula's work below:

READ + LISTEN + LEARN:

FIND Paula@: