E196: A Homicide, A Hero, and A Mother’s Heart: KD Wagner’s Legacy of Love

Adult Child of Dysfunction

What happens when the unimaginable becomes your reality—twice?

In this powerful and soul-stirring episode, I sit down with KD Wagner, a Gold Star Mother, speaker, author, and survivor of unthinkable tragedy. KD lost both of her sons—one to murder at just 18 years old, and the other while serving in the U.S. Navy during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her story is one of devastating loss, relentless grief, addiction, and ultimately, extraordinary resilience.

But KD's journey didn’t end in darkness—it transformed into a mission of purpose and healing. She shares how she moved through the depths of despair, including moments where life felt unbearable, and how she came back from the edge with a powerful message:

💬 “Limitless resilience is possible—even when everything feels broken.”

Today, KD Wagner serves as the President of the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers Inc., raising awareness and advocating for veterans and their families in honor of her sons, Jeffrey and Bud. She’s spoken around the globe, appeared on major networks, and continues to inspire with her raw truth and unwavering strength.

📘 Her book BUD: A Homicide Turns a Blue Star Gold tells the heart-wrenching and heroic story of her son’s service and ultimate sacrifice.

She is also the author of the trilogy The Next Day Came, which shares her powerful journey through grief, addiction, and the road back to life.

✨ Whether you're grieving, supporting someone who is, or simply in need of a reminder that healing is possible, this episode is for you.

🔗 Connect with KD Wagner:

📗 BUD: A Homicide Turns a Blue Star Gold – Buy on Amazon

📖 The Next Day Came Trilogy

📍 LinkedIn

📸 Threads

If you have a story of hope and healing that you want to share, please reach out. I would love to chat with you about being on the show.

Hey there, I’m so glad you’re tuning in! If this episode resonated with you, there’s more support waiting. I help adult children of dysfunction reclaim their voice, set boundaries, and rewrite their life story with confidence and clarity. 💛I am an international inspirational speaker, NLP practitioner, Trauma Informed ACOA Coach, and Best-selling Author. But more importantly, I am your friend who wants you to live your best life EVER!

🆓 Signature Course – Trials to Triumph: An Adult Child's Emotional Freedom Blueprint

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