194: Navigating Grief as a Single Mother with Amy Scruggs

by | May 31, 2023 | Podcast | 0 comments

Change It Up Radio with Paula Shaw - Episode 194: Navigating Grief as a Single Mother with Amy Scruggs

Today, we are talking about the unique challenges, experiences, and grief that one struggles with as a single parent.

In this Spring season of Change It Up Radio, our central theme has revolved around exploring grief from a myriad of perspectives, and our conversation today unravels the unique challenges and grief, as well as the blessings, that come with being a single mother.

In this episode, I am joined by Amy Scruggs, who is a renowned figure in the country music industry with a rich experience in sales, coaching, and media management. She opens up about her personal journey of single parenthood, revealing the struggles she endured, the strength she drew upon, and the life lessons learned along the way.

At the age of 18, Amy found herself pregnant and alone. Stepping into parenthood at such a young age set her on a path that required her to grow up quickly, balance her own self-discovery with the responsibility of caring for another human being, and eventually juggle a demanding career while raising four children.

She shares her battles with survival, financial stability, and the emotional challenges she encountered as a single mother. Economic turbulence forced Amy to pivot and get creative, leveraging her passion for music and performing to provide for her family.

Her personal journey mirrors the experience of many women who have also navigated the tumultuous path of single parenthood. Amy recounts the grief women endure in troubled relationships or marriages, how dreams once cherished can fizzle out over time, and how this grief is compounded when children are involved as they become the primary concern in the decision-making process.

We discuss the importance of acknowledging and dealing with long-term grief for personal growth, creating a meaningful life out of tough circumstances, and the power of reinvention and self-forgiveness. Amy advocates for the need to break old parenting patterns that might not serve the parent-child relationship, encouraging parents to show their flaws and own up to their mistakes, learn to forgive themselves for their imperfections, and find joy in their journey.

Some key topic points covered in this episode include:

  • The unique grief, challenges, and triumphs that come with being a single parent
  • The emotional turmoil of navigating difficult relationships/marriages
  • The decision-making process that’s involved when children are in a harmful environment
  • The potential emotional toll on children when remaining in an unstable situation
  • The balance of weighing physical necessities against emotional well-being
  • Navigating early motherhood and personal growth simultaneously
  • The impact of the economy and financial instability on single parenthood
  • Maintaining positive relationships with ex-partners for the sake of the children
  • Understanding and managing grief and regret as a single parent
  • Creating opportunities amidst challenges, despite the hard times
  • The creative approach to single parenthood in the face of financial crisis
  • The complexities and challenges of blending family and work life
  • The importance of acknowledging and addressing the sacrifices and struggles of the children
  • The necessity of emotional support and acknowledgment of humanness in single parenting

About Amy Scruggs:

Amy Scruggs has been known in country music for more than 15 years, opening for greats including Clint Black, Trace Adkins, Charlie Daniels, and many more.

She was the spokesperson for the American Veterans of California (AMVETS) from 2009-2011. 

Amy’s career also includes 20 years in sales team coaching, and she received Bestseller on her book “Lights Camera Action” in 2021.

For the past five years, she enjoyed her position as TV Host for The American Dream TV on CNBC and several other shows. 

Amy uses her experience as a Media Executive, TV host, Recording Artist, and Public Speaker to help others communicate a concise and professional message for network TV, podcast, social media, or in-person public speaking appearances.  

Her new single, released in 2022, “What if it All Goes Right,” is on radio worldwide, including the Music Row Charts, along with being selected for the NY Times Summer 2022 Playlist.

Check out the video below to watch our interview:

Resources Mentioned:

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