When "Normal"Breaks You: Grieving the Years You Weren't Yourself

SummaryKicking off 2026 with raw honesty and heart, Samantha Fox reflects on a year of grief, transformation, and coming home to herself. Inspired by lessons from her parents (especially her father’s unusual embrace of being different), Samantha explores the bittersweet aftermath of coming out and unboxing one’s true self especially for queer women breaking free from expectations and “normal.” With empathy and realness, this solo episode looks at grief (yes, it’s part of the journey!), the myth of normalcy, reclaiming your power, and how honoring your difference is a radical gift. Samantha shares her own experience, lessons from her clients, and a soulful invitation to embrace your own unique, beautiful path this year.KeywordsComing out later in lifeGrief and self-acceptanceQueer women’s journeysPatriarchal norms & liberationUnboxing your sexualityPower & financial independenceEmbracing differenceFamily lessonsAuthentic livingHealing after divorceWelcome to 2026 and a deeply personal solo episode with Samantha Fox. In this kick-off for the new year, Samantha:Reflects on the challenges, losses, and transitions of 2025 (including the passing of her father, who inspired this podcast and her embrace of being “different”).Shares raw stories of grief-her own and her clients’. Why is it so common to feel lost and sad after breaking free? And why is this grief not only valid, but necessary?Explores the myth of “normal” and the immense pressure to fit in especially for women and queer folks. What happens when we unlearn those old scripts?Offers candid insights on why financial independence is crucial for women’s empowerment (and why getting “unstuck” often means walking away from dependency, even if it’s scary).Looks at her parents’ unconventional choices and how those “pioneer” spirits paved a path for her to embrace her own unique, beautiful journey.Extends heartfelt encouragement (with a little tough love): give yourself permission to grieve, and to be different. The pain is real, but so are the gifts on the other side.Invites you to celebrate your difference and to find ease, curiosity, and self-love as you chart your course for 2026.Connect with Samantha:WebsiteInstagram: @lesbiancuriositycoachTikTok: @lesbiancuriositycoach