A Thousand Tiny Steps

Real life stories of life after loss

Ordinary People. Extraordinary Circumstances.

Storyteller, podcaster, blogger, author, mom, teacher, athlete, Crossfit fanatic, coach, brain tumor survivor

Honest, raw stories in audio and writing for people navigating grief, child loss, trauma and the tiny steps toward joy in the face of tragedy.

In sharing the stories of my life, I hope to clear the path so we may all find joy in the face of tragedy and see light in the darkness.

What Does Consent Mean to You? (E248)

June 2, 2026

Learning to Break the Silence (E247)

May 26, 2026

Motherland: A Memoir

by Barb Higgins ・ Proceeds go to The Molly B Foundation

What Readers and Listeners Say

Barb is a magnificent story teller. Her stories are never boring, instead they are fascinating, raw, honest, funny, and sometimes unbelievable! I can't help but laugh, cry, smile and frown right along with her as her life's story unfolds.

Barb's episodes are a testament to resilience, healing, and the power of speaking truth. A must listen!

By sharing personal stories of grief, you create a space for vulnerability and honesty.

Podcast Episodes you will want to experience

I selected these episodes to share experiences with the most significant impact to who I am today.

Episode 12: The Last Week of Molly’s Life

In this episode, I look back on the few months leading up to Molly’s death and in particular, her last week alive. The few months leading up to Molly’s death were frustrating, and I worried as her condition worsened. Come along with me as I look...

Episode 24: How Running Made me Confident

I never expected to start running track and field in high school with severe asthma. When I began running, I discovered I was great at it and went on to break records. Through the ups and downs, running helped me to solidify my identity, feel...

Episode 5: My Emotional Labor

In this episode, I go more in depth about my emotional experience being pregnant and giving birth. From my friends and family’s reaction to me having a baby and dealing with the difficulties of breastfeeding it was a wild ride. Key...

Episode 64: My Childhood Sexual Abuse

I was sexually abused as a child and it still impacts me at almost 60 years old. It took me a long time to be able to tell this story and to look back at the psychological impact that these terrible experiences had on me. It was a confusing time where...

Grief is innately unique for everyone. It is refreshing to hear a raw, self effacing, and honest narrative about life. Barb honestly looks within and openly discusses all of her triumphs and tragedies to make her who she is today.