Podcast Episode

What happens when tragedy changes your entire life? And how do you find your way back to happiness?

About this episode

Is there a moment when the road finally turns after tragedy—or does healing happen slowly, one moment at a time? In this episode of What Makes the Cow Guy Cry, Jim Dedelow sits down with Scott "The Cow Guy" Shellady for one of their most open and personal conversations yet. Scott reflects on the devastating losses he has experienced throughout his life, including the deaths of his daughter, father, brother, and mother, as well as his own battle with cancer. Scott shares how those experiences changed his perspective on life, faith, grief, and happiness. Rather than describing one dramatic turning point, he explains how acceptance came gradually through countless small moments. After years of tragedy, he began to realize that his time on Earth is limited—and that choosing to enjoy life doesn't mean forgetting the people or experiences that caused him pain. The conversation also explores the complicated reality of grief: how you can still be deeply sad while laughing, loving, traveling, and enjoying life. Scott discusses the invisible wounds that people carry after loss and why talking about those experiences can help others feel less alone. At its heart, this episode is about hope, resilience, acceptance, and choosing to live despite tragedy. If you've experienced loss or are somewhere in the middle of your own grief journey, Scott's story is a reminder that healing doesn't have to happen overnight. Sometimes, the road simply bends a little at a time. Listen to What Makes the Cow Guy Cry on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts, or watch on YouTube through WJOB 1230.