Systems, devices and methods for occluding the left atrial appendage (LAA). The device excludes the LAA from blood flow. The implantable device is delivered via transcatheter delivery into the LAA and secured within the LAA. The implant comprises an expandable and compliant frame and an expandable and conformable tubular foam body. A delivery and tether retraction system includes a handle for controlling a pusher and tether. The pusher may be moved a distance away from the implant without changing the orientation of the implant, while the tether is still attached to the implant. Severing the tether and proximally retracting a control on the hand piece by a distance causes the severed end to advance distally by at least about twice that distance. A loader includes a conical portion with guides and a reservoir for submerging the foam prior to loading and delivery.