Thrive Global Article by Stacey Chillemi – Original Article: https://community.thriveglobal.com/from-grief-to-grace-carolann-tutera-on-self-confidence-healing-and-embracing-your-authentic-self/

In this inspiring interview, CarolAnn Tutera shares her transformative journey from grief and self-doubt to empowerment, offering powerful insights on healing, self-love, and building lasting confidence.

“Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build, one brave step, one healing moment, and one loving thought at a time.”

— CarolAnn Tutera

In a world where confidence can be shaken by past traumas, personal losses, and societal pressures, CarolAnn Tutera stands as a beacon of resilience and transformation. As the co-founder of SottoPelle Therapy, she not only pioneered a groundbreaking approach to hormone therapy but also emerged as a powerful voice for emotional healing and inner empowerment. After the loss of her husband, CarolAnn was faced with the daunting task of carrying their shared legacy forward—alone. Instead of shrinking back, she stepped up, rediscovered her voice, and became the face of a company that helps countless individuals live healthier, more vibrant lives. Her story is one of deep personal evolution, rooted in grief, but blooming in purpose.

In this heart-opening interview, CarolAnn shares the raw and relatable journey of how she built her self-confidence from the ground up. From her early days as a shy, anxious child to becoming a national thought leader and wellness advocate, CarolAnn opens up about the affirmations, journaling practices, grief work, and daily habits that helped her reclaim her power. With wisdom steeped in experience and spiritual insight, she explores the emotional process of healing from childhood wounds, navigating social media toxicity, and creating supportive environments that fuel confidence. Her insights are a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story—and that healing begins from within.

 

Thank you so much for joining us, CarolAnn! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

 

Thank you, Stacey. It’s an honor to be here. I’m CarolAnn Tutera, and I’m the co-founder of SottoPelle Therapy. I started the company with my late husband, and we’ve been dedicated to helping people balance their hormones naturally and effectively using bio-identical hormone replacement therapy—specifically, small pellets placed under the skin that the body absorbs 24/7. We’ve trained providers across the globe since the late 1990s. After losing my husband, I chose to step into the forefront and continue his legacy. That journey, while difficult, helped shape who I am today. It’s kept me grounded and inspired to keep growing.

 

Were you always a confident person, or was confidence something that evolved throughout your life?

Confidence didn’t come naturally to me. As a child, I was extremely shy. I had a hard time going to school—I’d get physically sick from the anxiety of leaving home. My mom would have to walk me to the end of the driveway just to get me to go. I was so attached to the comfort and safety of home. Even through college and into my first marriage, I remained quiet and introverted, often deferring to others. It wasn’t until after my divorce that I found my voice. It started with anger, which was the only emotion I felt I could truly express at the time. I was in therapy, and I remember my therapist telling me, “I can hear your words, but your face doesn’t match them.” That was a powerful wake-up call. From that point on, I made it a personal mission to connect my words with my feelings and step into my authenticity.

 

What helped you transition into a more confident version of yourself after that turning point?

For me, the transformation really began with self-awareness. I had to learn how to be myself—not the person behind someone else, but the one standing fully in her own light. After my husband passed away, I was faced with a defining question: Do I fade into the background, or do I step up and lead? It wasn’t easy, but with the encouragement of friends who believed in me, I made the choice to be the face of the company. Since then, I’ve been recognized in Phoenix Magazine five years in a row as a leader in hormone replacement therapy. That didn’t happen overnight. It took courage, inner work, and a willingness to stretch beyond my comfort zone.

 

What are some specific practices that helped you boost your self-esteem?

Affirmations were a huge part of my journey. Every morning, I would repeat positive affirmations—statements that reminded me of my worth, strength, and capabilities. I paired those with reading spiritual texts and thought-provoking lessons that helped center my mind. Another major tool was journaling. I’d sit down, open a blank document or notebook, and just let my thoughts pour out without judgment. It was surprising what surfaced when I gave myself the space to just be. Writing became a healing ritual for me, one that allowed me to process emotions, gain clarity, and strengthen my relationship with myself.

 

Do you believe journaling is a therapeutic tool for confidence-building?

Absolutely. Journaling is one of the most powerful ways to release what’s weighing you down. When you give yourself permission to write without filters, you tap into your truth. For those struggling with low self-esteem or self-doubt, journaling provides an outlet to express pain, fear, or old narratives—and once it’s on paper, you begin to detach from it. It’s incredibly healing to externalize those feelings instead of bottling them up. In many ways, journaling is like talking to your soul.

 

How did you deal with emotions like anger that surfaced during this process?

That was a big hurdle for me. I had so much suppressed anger after my divorce. I had to learn how to release it in healthy ways. I’d beat a pillow, scream in my car, or even use a rubber bat on a soft surface—safely, of course. It sounds intense, but that kind of emotional release helped me move the energy out of my body. Exercise also played a big role. I used to run hard on the treadmill, and now I walk briskly. Movement gives emotions a way out. Over time, I also learned how to identify and transform those emotions through gratitude. I had a friend who taught me the power of being thankful for everything, even the difficult moments. That energy shift changed everything for me.

 

Besides journaling and affirmations, what else helped you build your confidence?

I made it a practice to put myself in situations where I had to show up. Whether it was a social event or a business function, I’d challenge myself to engage with at least one person. As a former teacher, I used to tell my second and third graders, “If you have a question, ask it—chances are five others are thinking the same thing.” That principle stuck with me. At any event, there’s always someone else who feels just as nervous as you do. Taking that first step builds confidence. With every interaction, I grew more comfortable being seen and heard.

 

How do you think society influences our confidence today—especially through social media?

We’ve become so quick to focus on the negative. Social media, unfortunately, can amplify that. I see more and more people turning off their comments because they don’t want to be on the receiving end of cruelty or judgment. We’ve created a culture where tearing someone down is normalized. But imagine how powerful it would be if we did the opposite—if we gave more compliments, shared more kindness. “I love your outfit,” “Your energy is beautiful,” “You’re doing great”—those simple words can change someone’s entire day. When you uplift others, you uplift yourself.

 

That’s such a beautiful mindset. How do you personally handle negative comments or challenges to your self-esteem?

Honestly, it still gets to me sometimes. I’m human, and I feel things deeply. But I’ve learned that it’s all just energy—and I get to choose where I focus mine. I listen to Michael Singer during my walks, and one of his teachings that resonated with me was finding a word—any word—that grounds you. Repeat it over and over when negativity tries to creep in. It helps me stay centered and redirects my mind toward positivity. It’s not about ignoring the tough moments—it’s about giving yourself tools to handle them with grace.

 

What advice do you have for people who’ve grown up being told they weren’t good enough?

That’s a powerful question. So many people are carrying wounds from childhood—emotional, verbal, even physical wounds—and they don’t realize that they’re grieving. They’re grieving the version of themselves that was mistreated or misunderstood. Healing starts when you acknowledge that grief. Write a letter to your younger self. Tell them they were worthy all along. Tell them they are loved and safe now. Grieving that loss is necessary. Only then can you start to rebuild your self-worth.

 

Do you think inner child work is essential for personal growth?

I do. We may think we’ve moved past our childhood, but so many of our adult behaviors are rooted in those early years. That little version of us still exists inside. We carry their pain, their fears, their beliefs. Doing the work to comfort and heal that inner child is incredibly liberating. And it allows us to create healthier relationships—not just with others, but with ourselves.

 

How can people begin to reframe their negative beliefs and begin healing?

Start by accepting where you are without judgment. If you grew up in a home where you were constantly criticized, it’s likely you’re replaying those same patterns now—whether in how you treat yourself or in your relationships. Recognize it, and remind yourself that you’re not that child anymore. You’re not powerless. You can create a new narrative. You can love yourself. And you can tell yourself, “I can handle this.” That one sentence alone can shift everything.

 

What are your thoughts on rebuilding friendships and finding support later in life?

It can be a challenge, especially as we get older, but it’s absolutely possible. The key is to pursue activities that bring you joy—join a book club, take a cooking class, try pickleball, whatever lights you up. When you’re doing what you love, you’ll naturally meet like-minded people. And those connections often turn into lasting friendships.

 

What is your biggest takeaway for people struggling with low self-confidence?

The foundation of confidence is love—starting with self-love. You have to love and accept yourself fully. Obstacles will come. People will say hurtful things. But if you’re grounded in love and surrounded by supportive people, you’ll be able to weather those storms. Look at who you’ve surrounded yourself with. Are they lifting you up? If not, it’s time to reassess. You can choose who you become and how you live. That power is always within you.

 

For someone who wants to maintain their confidence long-term, what’s your best piece of advice?

Stay curious. Keep learning. Surround yourself with people who mirror the best in you. And remember, confidence isn’t a destination—it’s a daily practice. Each day is a chance to step into your worth, speak your truth, and embrace the life you’re building. Don’t be afraid to start over. In fact, starting over might just lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.

 

How can our readers further follow your work online?

You can find me on our website: www.sottopelletherapy.com. There’s a contact page there where you can reach out, learn more about what we do, and stay connected with our work and message. Whether you’re curious about hormone therapy or just seeking guidance on your journey, I’m here to help.

 

CarolAnn, thank you so much for this deeply inspiring and soul-nourishing conversation. Your vulnerability, wisdom, and tools for building confidence are such a gift to our readers.

Thank you, Stacey. It’s been a true pleasure. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to share from the heart. Let’s keep lifting each other up—because we’re all in this journey together.

CarolAnn Tutera is the co-founder and CEO of SottoPelle Therapy, a pioneering hormone replacement therapy company that has transformed the lives of thousands globally. With decades of experience in wellness and personal development, CarolAnn has become a respected voice in both the medical and personal transformation communities. After the passing of her husband, she stepped into a leadership role, carrying forward their shared vision while also navigating her own journey of grief and self-discovery. Known for her compassionate approach, spiritual insight, and empowering message, CarolAnn is passionate about helping others reclaim their confidence, heal from within, and live authentically.

Thrive Global Article by Stacey Chillemi – Original Article: https://community.thriveglobal.com/healing-hormones-and-hope-how-carolann-tutera-transformed-grief-into-growth-and-purpose/

“Grief doesn’t end — it evolves. And through it, you have the opportunity to rediscover who you truly are and create a life rooted in purpose, peace, and gratitude.”

– CarolAnn Tutera

Grief is one of the most profound and personal journeys a person can experience — one that can either break us down or awaken something within us we never knew existed. In this moving and inspiring interview, I sat down with CarolAnn Tutera, co-founder of SottoPelle Therapy, who vulnerably shares how the unexpected loss of her husband propelled her into a transformative path of spiritual awakening, emotional healing, and personal rediscovery. Far beyond the titles of businesswoman or widow, CarolAnn speaks candidly about navigating grief, reconnecting with the soul, and redefining identity outside of societal roles and expectations.

Through our conversation, CarolAnn unpacks the emotional complexity of grief and offers valuable tools to help others cope, grow, and heal. From grief yoga and spiritual signs to the power of hormone balance and the importance of community, she reminds us that healing is never linear — but it is always possible. Her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering belief in self-care and spiritual connection shine through, making this interview a must-read for anyone who has loved and lost — and is searching for a way back to themselves.

 

Thank you so much for joining us, CarolAnn! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

I began my journey in business with my late husband when we launched SottoPelle Therapy in the 1990s. Our goal was to bring balance back to people’s lives using hormone pellet therapy — something that was truly revolutionary at the time. After my husband passed away unexpectedly, my life shifted drastically. That painful moment marked the beginning of a new journey, one focused on personal healing, spiritual exploration, and truly getting to know myself beyond any title or role.

How did spirituality shape your healing process after his passing?

It became my anchor. I realized I couldn’t control or change what happened — this was between my husband and God. That understanding, that surrender, became my survival tool. I leaned into energy healing and began working with a spiritual healer who helped me dive deep into my beliefs, emotions, and subconscious patterns. I learned that we are not our names or careers. We are spiritual beings with complex inner worlds — and it’s our responsibility to understand and nurture that inner self.

How do you describe yourself now after doing all this inner work?

I no longer define myself by material things or roles. Now I say: I am a vibrant woman who loves to learn, grow, educate, and embrace joy. I find beauty in the world around me and within myself. And even this definition evolves as I grow — it’s an ongoing process of rediscovery.

What would you say are the first steps to personal growth after the loss of a loved one?

It’s about finding your own unique path. For me, traditional therapy didn’t work — in fact, it felt judgmental. Group therapy wasn’t the right fit either. But I found deep healing in grief yoga and attending a transformational weekend with David Kessler and other grief experts. That weekend changed the trajectory of my healing. The movement, the release, the safe space — it allowed me to start letting go of the anger, sadness, and confusion.

Why do you think so many people struggle to know who they really are?

Because we live in a world obsessed with titles and external validation. When I ask people who they are without their job, home, or family role, most are left speechless. That’s because we’re taught to define ourselves by what we do or own, not by our essence. It’s scary for people to strip all that away and face their true selves — their soul, their spirit. But that’s where real transformation begins.

What are some of the emotional challenges you faced personally during your grief journey?

Anger, confusion, brain fog, and denial were big ones. I was angry my husband left. I didn’t know what to do or who I was without him. I felt lost for a long time — sometimes I could barely function during the day. But I learned that grief isn’t something to be rushed. It takes its own course. You have to cry, yell, retreat — whatever you need to do. For me, a lot of tears were shed in the shower. It was a private, safe space to release.

How can individuals begin to identify and harness their inner strength during overwhelming periods of grief?

First, allow yourself to isolate a little — but don’t stay there. My dogs gave me the motivation to keep moving every day. Surround yourself with support, but also listen to what your body and soul need in the moment. Sometimes just getting through the next hour is the goal. Strength comes from allowing yourself to feel fully and then choosing to keep moving forward, even when it’s hard.

Can you share some self-care practices that helped you cope with loss?

Taking baths was a big one for me — water grounds and soothes me. I kept my hair and nail appointments, stayed on top of routines that made me feel like myself. I also took a much-needed vacation where I completely unplugged, and it changed me. I came back refreshed and reminded of how important it is to pause and reset. Now, I make it a point to get outside, walk, breathe, and remember that caring for myself isn’t selfish — it’s essential.

How can someone deal with guilt or regret that often follows the loss of a loved one?

You need to keep reminding yourself — it’s not your fault. And sometimes you need others to remind you too. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. Use affirmations. Work with a therapist or coach if needed. And remember, you’re still here for a reason. That alone is proof that you have more to do, more to give.

Do you believe our loved ones who’ve passed stay connected with us?

Absolutely. I see signs constantly — feathers, dreams, synchronicities. I once lost an earring in a restaurant parking lot, and a month and a half later, it appeared on top of my husband’s car. How does that happen? I know it was him. I’ve also seen my two dogs in dreams, running and playing together. That tells me they’re okay — and that they’re still with me.

What role does community play in the healing journey, and how can someone find their support system?

It’s crucial, but it’s also something you have to seek out. Start with what brings you joy. Love dogs? Volunteer at a shelter. Love kids? Read to them at hospitals or schools. Find your tribe through shared passions. It’s like moving to a new town — you have to put yourself out there, even if it’s uncomfortable at first. Join a book club, show up at your local coffee shop, smile, and start small conversations. It takes courage, but it’s worth it.

What resources helped you the most during your grief journey?

David Kessler and his website, Grief.com, have been transformational for me. His work carries such compassion, and he worked directly with Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, who pioneered the five stages of grief. I also loved grief yoga and other small practices like journaling, coloring, and meditating. They help open up parts of your soul you didn’t even know needed healing.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their healing journey after loss?

Don’t believe the lie that you’re alone — because you’re not. Reach out to someone, even just one person. A daily call or text can make a huge difference. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means honoring your journey while continuing to live.

If you had to emphasize a few key takeaways from our conversation today, what would they be?

First, start the journey of self-discovery. That’s the biggest gift you can give yourself. Second, embrace practices that open you up — whether that’s journaling, coloring, or simply walking outside in gratitude. And finally, step back from the chaos of life. Turn off the media. Get quiet. That’s where true clarity and healing live.

You’ve done important work in hormone therapy. Can you tell us more about how it ties into personal wellness?

Hormonal imbalance can deeply impact your mental, emotional, and physical health. At SottoPelle Therapy, we focus on personalized, bio-identical hormone therapy that helps people regain energy, clarity, and joy. We’re also collaborating with Dr. Amen and his clinics to explore how hormone balance impacts brain health — it’s absolutely fascinating and groundbreaking work.

Where can people go to learn more about hormone therapy or contact you directly?

Visit SottoPelleTherapy.com — we have so much information available there. You can also connect with me personally on Facebook at Carol Ann Pener Tutera, or on Instagram @catitudewithcat. Feel free to DM me. I’m always happy to share guidance or insight.

Is there anything else you’d like to leave our readers with?

Yes — take time for yourself. Step back from the noise of the world and reconnect with your inner world. Reality lives within you, not outside of you. And never forget: gratitude is the highest form of energy for connecting with God. The more grateful you become, the more peace and clarity you’ll invite into your life.

 

CarolAnn, thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt story and wisdom with us today. Your vulnerability, strength, and insights are truly inspiring. I know your words will resonate deeply with so many who are walking their own path of healing and self-discovery.

Thank you, Stacey. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be here and to share my journey. If even one person feels less alone or more hopeful after hearing this, then it was all worth it. Thank you for creating such a beautiful space for these important conversations.

CarolAnn Tutera is the co-founder of SottoPelle® Therapy, a leading hormone therapy company dedicated to helping individuals restore balance, vitality, and overall well-being through personalized, bio-identical hormone replacement. With a deep passion for holistic healing and personal transformation, CarolAnn combines her professional expertise with her own journey of grief and self-discovery to guide others toward emotional and physical wellness. You can learn more about her work at www.sottopelletherapy.com, follow her on Facebook at Carol Ann Penner Tutera, and connect on Instagram @catitudewithcat.