Ep. 55 - The Reality of Family Estrangement: The Power of Chosen Family

In this final episode of the season, Wendy reflects on the nature of giving and the quiet power of living with integrity. Inspired by a quote from Pope Francis, she explores how judgment and gossip, though often disguised as concern or connection, weigh us down more than we realize. Through personal insights and a call for deeper presence, Wendy invites listeners to clear space in their lives by speaking with intention, respecting others’ stories, and choosing connection over comparison. Let’s talk less about others - and more with meaning.

Family is supposed to be a source of unconditional love and support - but what happens when it isn’t? In this episode of Cropped, Wendy explores the painful and complex reality of family estrangement, sharing her personal experience and hard-earned insights on letting go. She reflects on the grief, guilt, and ultimately, the courage it takes to choose yourself when family relationships no longer serve your well-being. More importantly, she highlights the power of chosen family - the people who see you, support you, and love you not because they have to, but because they want to. If you’ve ever struggled with family relationships, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone - and that love, belonging, and connection can be found in the people you choose.

In this refreshing and practical episode of Cropped, Wendy lightens the tone of the season by talking personal style - specifically, how to build a wardrobe that reflects who you truly are. Inspired by her recent international move and the limitations of packing light, Wendy shares insights on simplifying your closet, identifying your go-to pieces, and why dressing for yourself is the ultimate expression of confidence. From timeless staples to thoughtful accessories, this episode is all about curating a wardrobe that works for your life right now - without the pressure of trends or clutter.

In this refreshingly honest and humorous episode, Wendy explores the nuanced difference between embracing and accepting the physical changes that come with aging. From unexpected reflections in shop windows to elbows that resemble “tiny polite sea creatures,” she reflects on what it really means to age with grace - without pretending to love every wrinkle. Wendy also calls for less judgment and more compassion, reminding us that everyone’s journey with aging is personal. Whether you’re Botox-curious, silver-haired and proud, or somewhere in between, this episode is a reminder that acceptance, not perfection, is where real peace lives.

In a world overflowing with noise, expectations, and excess, how do we create a life that truly feels like our own? In this episode of Cropped, Wendy explores the power of subtraction - letting go of distractions, obligations, and pressures that drain us, so we can focus on what truly matters. She shares her own daily practice for setting intentions, prioritizing relationships, and simplifying life with purpose. With a growing movement of people choosing intention over accumulation, Wendy challenges us to redefine success - not by how much we have, but by how aligned we feel. Listen in for a thoughtful conversation on reclaiming your energy, eliminating the unnecessary, and curating a life that is rich in meaning, not just in things.

In this thoughtful and poetic episode of Cropped, Wendy Euler weaves together life and philosophy through the lens of ancient Stoicism. Drawing a beautiful metaphor from the world of fabric-making, Wendy explores how the “warp” - our values, discipline, and mindset - can create a strong foundation to help us move through the unpredictable “weft” of life. Whether you’re familiar with Stoic thinkers like Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius or new to the philosophy, this episode offers a grounding and relatable reflection on resilience, acceptance, and inner peace in the face of life’s chaos.

In this deeply personal episode of Cropped, Wendy shares the story of her mother’s final chapter - a relationship marked by distance that found unexpected healing in the end. Through quiet moments, shared laughter, and simple acts of presence, Wendy discovered a profound truth: sometimes love isn’t loud or perfect, but it’s there in the quietest, most unexpected ways. As she reflects on loss, forgiveness, and the power of human connection, Wendy invites us to embrace our own relationships with compassion and presence. This is a story about letting go of expectations, holding on to love, and finding peace where we least expect it. Listen in for a moving, heartfelt conversation about family, grief, and the bonds that endure.

In this season of Cropped, host Wendy Euler navigates a year of profound change - moving across the world, facing personal loss, and enduring unexpected challenges. Yet, in the midst of it all, there was a very bright light: signing a book deal with her dream publisher. In this episode, Wendy shares a powerful story about resilience: how an old mule’s determination to “shake it off and step up” holds lessons for all of us facing life’s uncertainties. Whether you’re dealing with loss, career shifts, or just the weight of change, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone, and the best is yet to come. Listen in for an honest, uplifting conversation about finding strength in the storm and embracing the next chapter with courage.

In today's episode Wendy explores the possibility of reclaiming our unique talents and agency in a world that often pressures us to conform. Join Wendy as she delves into the importance of introspection over comparison, urging listeners to embrace their individuality and resist societal pressures. Tune in to rediscover the power of looking inward and reclaiming your own path.

On this week's episode, Wendy talks about the often overlooked topic of caring for aging parents. Wendy shares her personal experiences, offering insights and practical advice for listeners facing similar challenges. She is learning too. Many of us are grappling with the profound realities of aging and caregiving. You are not alone.