GRIEF AND LIGHT Mon, 16 Mar 2026 22:34:14 -0400 http://www.griefandlight.com en-us © 2026 GRIEF AND LIGHT yes Support this Podcast 35e11a4a-17f9-5cfe-8c81-13fec18653db info@griefandlight.com Nina Rodriguez episodic false This space was created for you by someone who gets it – your grief, your foundation-shattering reality, and the question of what the heck do we do with the shattered pieces of life and loss around us.

It’s also for the listener who wants to better understand their grieving person, and perhaps wants to learn how to help.

Now in its fourth season, the Grief and Light podcast features both solo episodes and interviews with first-hand experiencers, authors, and professionals, who shine a light on the spectrum of experiences, feelings, secondary losses, and takeaways.

As a bereaved sister, I share my personal story of the sudden loss of my younger brother, only sibling, one day after we celebrated his 32nd birthday. I also delve into how that loss, trauma, and grief catapulted me into a truth-seeking journey, which ultimately led me to answer "the calling" of creating this space I now call Grief and Light.

Since launching the first episode on March 30, 2023, the Grief and Light podcast and social platforms have evolved into a powerful resource for grief-informed support, including one-on-one grief guidance, monthly grief circles, community, and much more.

With each episode, you can expect open and authentic conversations sharing our truth, and explorations of how to transmute the grief experience into meaning, and even joy.

My hope is to make you feel less alone, and to be a beacon of light and source of information for anyone embarking on this journey.

"We're all just walking each other HOME." - Ram Dass

Thank you for being here.

We're in this together.

Nina, Yosef's Sister

--

For more information, visit: griefandlight.com

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) grief, sibling loss, trauma, addiction, loss, loss of a loved one, self help, death, life after loss, post-traumatic growth, resilience, personal stories Nina Rodriguez info@griefandlight.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/yubkfcewe7s8mwa6ideq7aralww4?.jpg GRIEF AND LIGHT http://www.griefandlight.com Nina Rodriguez Jewelry As a Voice: Empowering Survivors and Economic Resilience with Amanda Nicol Jewelry As a Voice: Empowering Survivors and Economic Resilience with Amanda Nicol In this heartfelt episode, Nina Rodriguez interviews Amanda Nicol, a museum-quality jewelry designer and survivor of intimate partner violence (IPV), about transforming trauma into empowerment through her one-of-a-kind jewelry. Amanda shares her journey of resilience, community support, and the importance of storytelling and purpose in her work.

Jewelry One of a KIND is a Miami-based jewelry house creating one-of-a-kind pieces designed to be collected. Small batch. Handcrafted. Built to last.

Amanda’s jewelry and story highlight how art, purpose, and community can foster healing and resilience after trauma. Explore her work and consider engaging with her workshops for a meaningful experience that supports survivors and promotes social impact.

Key Topics:

  • The concept of resilience as a model, not just a metaphor, and how Amanda applies it through her jewelry business
  • Personal stories behind her jewelry pieces, including reflections on grief, trauma, and healing
  • The role of community involvement and advocacy in addressing violence, substance abuse, and mental health
  • How creative expression can reclaim agency and aid in trauma recovery
  • Ethical and sustainable practices in jewelry making, including fair wages and environmental considerations
  • The power of shared experiences, community workshops, and experiential gifting in strengthening bonds
  • Practical insights on balancing business growth, activism, and authentic storytelling

IPV Data & Resources:

Connect with Amanda Nicol:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this heartfelt episode, Nina Rodriguez interviews Amanda Nicol, a museum-quality jewelry designer and survivor of intimate partner violence (IPV), about transforming trauma into empowerment through her one-of-a-kind jewelry. Amanda shares her journey of resilience, community support, and the importance of storytelling and purpose in her work.

Jewelry One of a KIND is a Miami-based jewelry house creating one-of-a-kind pieces designed to be collected. Small batch. Handcrafted. Built to last.

Amanda’s jewelry and story highlight how art, purpose, and community can foster healing and resilience after trauma. Explore her work and consider engaging with her workshops for a meaningful experience that supports survivors and promotes social impact.

Key Topics:

  • The concept of resilience as a model, not just a metaphor, and how Amanda applies it through her jewelry business
  • Personal stories behind her jewelry pieces, including reflections on grief, trauma, and healing
  • The role of community involvement and advocacy in addressing violence, substance abuse, and mental health
  • How creative expression can reclaim agency and aid in trauma recovery
  • Ethical and sustainable practices in jewelry making, including fair wages and environmental considerations
  • The power of shared experiences, community workshops, and experiential gifting in strengthening bonds
  • Practical insights on balancing business growth, activism, and authentic storytelling

IPV Data & Resources:

Connect with Amanda Nicol:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18802501 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400 3241 4 107 full false Amanda Nicol Nina Rodriguez Now That She's Gone: Mother Loss, Health Anxiety, and Legacy with Chelsea Ohlemiller Now That She's Gone: Mother Loss, Health Anxiety, and Legacy with Chelsea Ohlemiller What does it mean to carry a mother’s love forward after she’s gone? How do you parent a child with life-threatening food allergies?

In this heartfelt conversation, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Chelsea Ohlemiller, author of Now That She’s Gone: A Daughter’s Reflections on Loss, Love & a Mother’s Legacy, to explore the enduring impact of mother loss.

Chelsea shares how the sudden death of her mother in 2017 reshaped her identity, her marriage, and her parenting, and how writing became both a lifeline and a way to honor her mom’s encouragement. Together, they reflect on how grief evolves over time, what it means to feel “motherless" or "homeless," and how legacy is something we live, not just something we inherit.

The conversation also moves into the realities many don’t name: health anxiety after loss, the emotional complexity of hospice, modeling grief for children, and the ongoing tenderness of final goodbyes. 

Chelsea opens up about how honoring her mother’s encouragement to write became a way to stay connected to her, and how storytelling can transform pain into meaning through writing as both a therapeutic outlet and a living legacy.

They also speak candidly about:

  • Parenting children while actively grieving
  • Modeling healthy emotional expression
  • The strain grief can place on marriage
  • Health anxiety after sudden loss
  • The emotional and practical realities of hospice care
  • The sacred, complicated nature of final goodbyes

The episode closes with an important and often overlooked conversation about severe food allergies and anaphylaxis; an area Chelsea advocates awareness around as a mother navigating the daily vigilance that comes with protecting a child’s life.

This is a conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and the courage to feel deeply, while still choosing to live, love, and create.

Takeaways:

  • Loss reshapes identity, relationships, and how we see ourselves.
  • Legacy is something we live, not something frozen in the past.
  • Writing helps process grief and preserve memory.
  • Modeling honest grief gives children permission to feel.
  • Children often show intuitive wisdom in loss.
  • Grief can strain marriage and calls for compassion.
  • Health anxiety after loss is common and valid.
  • Hospice can be a compassionate, supportive transition.
  • Final goodbyes are rarely tidy.
  • Severe food allergies and anaphylaxis need greater awareness.
  • We can carry grief and still live fully in their honor.

Connect with Chelsea:

Res

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What does it mean to carry a mother’s love forward after she’s gone? How do you parent a child with life-threatening food allergies?

In this heartfelt conversation, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Chelsea Ohlemiller, author of Now That She’s Gone: A Daughter’s Reflections on Loss, Love & a Mother’s Legacy, to explore the enduring impact of mother loss.

Chelsea shares how the sudden death of her mother in 2017 reshaped her identity, her marriage, and her parenting, and how writing became both a lifeline and a way to honor her mom’s encouragement. Together, they reflect on how grief evolves over time, what it means to feel “motherless" or "homeless," and how legacy is something we live, not just something we inherit.

The conversation also moves into the realities many don’t name: health anxiety after loss, the emotional complexity of hospice, modeling grief for children, and the ongoing tenderness of final goodbyes. 

Chelsea opens up about how honoring her mother’s encouragement to write became a way to stay connected to her, and how storytelling can transform pain into meaning through writing as both a therapeutic outlet and a living legacy.

They also speak candidly about:

  • Parenting children while actively grieving
  • Modeling healthy emotional expression
  • The strain grief can place on marriage
  • Health anxiety after sudden loss
  • The emotional and practical realities of hospice care
  • The sacred, complicated nature of final goodbyes

The episode closes with an important and often overlooked conversation about severe food allergies and anaphylaxis; an area Chelsea advocates awareness around as a mother navigating the daily vigilance that comes with protecting a child’s life.

This is a conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and the courage to feel deeply, while still choosing to live, love, and create.

Takeaways:

  • Loss reshapes identity, relationships, and how we see ourselves.
  • Legacy is something we live, not something frozen in the past.
  • Writing helps process grief and preserve memory.
  • Modeling honest grief gives children permission to feel.
  • Children often show intuitive wisdom in loss.
  • Grief can strain marriage and calls for compassion.
  • Health anxiety after loss is common and valid.
  • Hospice can be a compassionate, supportive transition.
  • Final goodbyes are rarely tidy.
  • Severe food allergies and anaphylaxis need greater awareness.
  • We can carry grief and still live fully in their honor.

Connect with Chelsea:

Res

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18763241 Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 3450 losing a mother, mother loss, grief after losing a parent, hospice, health anxiety, food allergy, anaphylaxis, motherless 4 106 full false Chelsea Ohlemiller Nina Rodriguez How Art Helps You Heal Grief (And Become Who You Truly Are) with Susie Stonefield How Art Helps You Heal Grief (And Become Who You Truly Are) with Susie Stonefield What if the mess you've been avoiding is actually the doorway?

In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with transformational creativity and grief coach Susie Stonefield to explore the powerful connection between grief and creative expression. 

Susie believes creativity isn't a luxury or a talent reserved for the few. It's a birthright. And in times of loss and healing, it can become one of our most powerful companions.

Together, they explore how art-making without rules, outcomes, or expectations creates space for emotional healing and truth to surface. They move through grief in its many forms: the death of loved ones, identity shifts, coming out later in life, complicated emotions like anger and guilt, and the collective grief so many of us carry in uncertain times.

Susie shares her personal journey through loss and self-discovery, and how those experiences shaped the judgment-free spaces she now holds for others through one-on-one grief coaching and intimate small group "Deep Dives." Her work lives at the intersection of mess and meaning. The messiness of life, she says, isn't something to clean up. It's something to honor.

This episode is an invitation to anyone navigating loss, identity, or the quiet ache of feeling stuck. Pick up the art supplies. Feel what's there. Make something from it. Not to fix grief, but to sit beside it.

This episode explores:

  • Why creativity is a powerful companion to grief
  • The myth that only “artists” are creative
  • Grief beyond death: identity shifts, coming out later in life, and life transitions
  • Art journaling as a cathartic emotional practice
  • Creating safe, judgment-free spaces for vulnerability
  • Honoring anger, guilt, and the full emotional spectrum
  • The impact of collective grief in today’s world
  • Finding joy alongside sorrow through creative expression
  • Why sharing our stories fosters connection and healing

Reflection Invitation:

  • What emotion have I been trying to tidy up instead of express?
  • What would it look like to create without needing it to be “good”?
  • What might emerge if I gave myself permission to make something from my grief?

Connect with Susie Stonefield:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What if the mess you've been avoiding is actually the doorway?

In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with transformational creativity and grief coach Susie Stonefield to explore the powerful connection between grief and creative expression. 

Susie believes creativity isn't a luxury or a talent reserved for the few. It's a birthright. And in times of loss and healing, it can become one of our most powerful companions.

Together, they explore how art-making without rules, outcomes, or expectations creates space for emotional healing and truth to surface. They move through grief in its many forms: the death of loved ones, identity shifts, coming out later in life, complicated emotions like anger and guilt, and the collective grief so many of us carry in uncertain times.

Susie shares her personal journey through loss and self-discovery, and how those experiences shaped the judgment-free spaces she now holds for others through one-on-one grief coaching and intimate small group "Deep Dives." Her work lives at the intersection of mess and meaning. The messiness of life, she says, isn't something to clean up. It's something to honor.

This episode is an invitation to anyone navigating loss, identity, or the quiet ache of feeling stuck. Pick up the art supplies. Feel what's there. Make something from it. Not to fix grief, but to sit beside it.

This episode explores:

  • Why creativity is a powerful companion to grief
  • The myth that only “artists” are creative
  • Grief beyond death: identity shifts, coming out later in life, and life transitions
  • Art journaling as a cathartic emotional practice
  • Creating safe, judgment-free spaces for vulnerability
  • Honoring anger, guilt, and the full emotional spectrum
  • The impact of collective grief in today’s world
  • Finding joy alongside sorrow through creative expression
  • Why sharing our stories fosters connection and healing

Reflection Invitation:

  • What emotion have I been trying to tidy up instead of express?
  • What would it look like to create without needing it to be “good”?
  • What might emerge if I gave myself permission to make something from my grief?

Connect with Susie Stonefield:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18721257 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 3076 Grief, Grief Support, Resilience, Creativity and Grief, Expressive Arts, Art Journaling, Creative Healing, Emotional Processing, Vulnerability, Safe Spaces, Collective Grief, Identity and Loss, Life Transitions, Self-Discovery, Mental Health, Emotional We 4 105 full false Susie Stonefield Nina Rodriguez Year of the Fire Horse 2026: What it Means for Grievers Year of the Fire Horse 2026: What it Means for Grievers February 17, 2026 marks a rare cosmic convergence that happens once every 60 years.  

In this solo episode, we explore the intersection of grief and the Year of the Fire Horse, a powerful metaphor for riding the uncontrollable momentum of loss while finding your center in the chaos.

We're standing at the threshold of three major energetic events: the Chinese Lunar New Year (Year of the Fire Horse), an Aquarius Solar Eclipse, and a rare planetary alignment that amplifies our ability to speak the truths of grief.

Whether you believe in astrology or not, there's something palpable in our collective.

This episode offers practical rituals, collective practices, and gentle guidance for grievers at every stage of their journey. If you've ever felt like grief is a wild horse you can't control, this conversation is for you.


Key Takeaways:

Grief is more like riding than walking. You can't outrun it or think your way past it.

The Fire Horse rewards courage, not readiness. Take one small brave step toward what your grief has frozen, even if you don't feel ready yet.

Eclipse energy initiates six-month cycles. What you set in motion today—a grief intention, a conversation, a ritual—will carry forward through August 2026.

Your healing is connected to collective healing. The Aquarius eclipse asks: what happens when we stop performing "fine" and bring our grief into community?

Words carry more weight today. Speak your person's name, say the unsayable, let the imperfect words come.

Transformation happens inside containment. If you're in early grief and the "Fire Horse energy" feels like too much, remember the butterfly emerging from the chrysalis. The quiet, hidden work is still transformation.

Fire destroys and illuminates. Grief burns away what no longer serves while lighting the path forward.

Who This Episode Is For

  • Anyone navigating the early, raw stages of grief
  • Grievers who feel stuck or frozen in their process
  • People looking for ways to mark significant dates or thresholds in their grief journey
  • Those seeking community around loss
  • Anyone who has felt like grief is a wild, uncontrollable force
  • Those looking for grief support resources to share

Sources:

Today.com - "What the Solar Eclipse in Aquarius on February 17 Means for Your Sign"

Khanji School - "Year of the Fire Horse 2026: meaning and Chinese culture"

Elle Australia - "What Lunar New Year's 'Year Of The Fire Horse' Means For 2026"

Moon Omens - "Mercury in Pisces 2026: the Language of Soul" and "Solar Eclipse in Aquarius 2026: A New Timeline"

Bonnie Sorsby Astrology - "Aquarius Eclipse February 17, 2026 Deep Dive + Full Guide"

Disclaimer: Nina is not an astrologer or expert in cosmology. The information

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> February 17, 2026 marks a rare cosmic convergence that happens once every 60 years.  

In this solo episode, we explore the intersection of grief and the Year of the Fire Horse, a powerful metaphor for riding the uncontrollable momentum of loss while finding your center in the chaos.

We're standing at the threshold of three major energetic events: the Chinese Lunar New Year (Year of the Fire Horse), an Aquarius Solar Eclipse, and a rare planetary alignment that amplifies our ability to speak the truths of grief.

Whether you believe in astrology or not, there's something palpable in our collective.

This episode offers practical rituals, collective practices, and gentle guidance for grievers at every stage of their journey. If you've ever felt like grief is a wild horse you can't control, this conversation is for you.


Key Takeaways:

Grief is more like riding than walking. You can't outrun it or think your way past it.

The Fire Horse rewards courage, not readiness. Take one small brave step toward what your grief has frozen, even if you don't feel ready yet.

Eclipse energy initiates six-month cycles. What you set in motion today—a grief intention, a conversation, a ritual—will carry forward through August 2026.

Your healing is connected to collective healing. The Aquarius eclipse asks: what happens when we stop performing "fine" and bring our grief into community?

Words carry more weight today. Speak your person's name, say the unsayable, let the imperfect words come.

Transformation happens inside containment. If you're in early grief and the "Fire Horse energy" feels like too much, remember the butterfly emerging from the chrysalis. The quiet, hidden work is still transformation.

Fire destroys and illuminates. Grief burns away what no longer serves while lighting the path forward.

Who This Episode Is For

  • Anyone navigating the early, raw stages of grief
  • Grievers who feel stuck or frozen in their process
  • People looking for ways to mark significant dates or thresholds in their grief journey
  • Those seeking community around loss
  • Anyone who has felt like grief is a wild, uncontrollable force
  • Those looking for grief support resources to share

Sources:

Today.com - "What the Solar Eclipse in Aquarius on February 17 Means for Your Sign"

Khanji School - "Year of the Fire Horse 2026: meaning and Chinese culture"

Elle Australia - "What Lunar New Year's 'Year Of The Fire Horse' Means For 2026"

Moon Omens - "Mercury in Pisces 2026: the Language of Soul" and "Solar Eclipse in Aquarius 2026: A New Timeline"

Bonnie Sorsby Astrology - "Aquarius Eclipse February 17, 2026 Deep Dive + Full Guide"

Disclaimer: Nina is not an astrologer or expert in cosmology. The information

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18701547 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:00:00 -0500 989 chinese new year, fire horse, resilience, grief, collective grief, grief podcast, light in grief, Aquarius, astrology, spirituality, grief rituals 4 104 full false Grief, Poetry, and Resilient Leadership: Carl Manlan on Love, Loss, and Legacy Grief, Poetry, and Resilient Leadership: Carl Manlan on Love, Loss, and Legacy What does grief teach us about how to live, lead, and love? What happens when the work we do in the world meets what we’re carrying inside?

In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with development practitioner, global thought leader, and poet Carl Manlan, author of i can breathe, for a moving conversation on grief, legacy, resilience, and meaning.

Carl reflects on how loss reshaped his understanding of resilience, leadership, and what it means to honor those who came before us, and the grief that arises from life changes, transitions, and the unexpected losses that quietly reshape our lives. His poetry became a necessary language for grief, a way to express what policy, strategy, and everyday conversation often cannot.

Nina and Carl explore grief as an experience rooted in love, memory, and connection. They discuss how creativity and poetry can support healing, how personal loss deepens our capacity for service and leadership, and how parental and intergenerational influence continues to shape the way we show up for ourselves and our children.

This episode is a gentle reminder that grief is not just sorrow. It's also about legacy, memory, and the courage to keep breathing. Carl’s poems chart the path between losing and learning to live with loss, offering honesty, tenderness, and the wisdom of someone who has walked this path.

This conversation explores:

  • Why “you only grieve what you love”
  • Poetry and creativity as vessels for grief
  • The connection between loss and leadership
  • How upbringing and parental influence shape resilience and service
  • Finding joy, gratitude, and meaning alongside grief
  • Parenting and legacy: what we pass on to our children emotionally
  • Creativity as a survival tool
  • The symbolism behind Carl’s poetry and imagery
  • Creating space for future generations to express emotion

Key Takeaways:

  • Grief is the echo of love; we grieve because we have loved deeply
  • Grief is sensory and embodied, living in memory, feeling, and the body
  • Poetry and creative expression can hold what logic and language cannot
  • Loss can clarify purpose and inspire deeper service
  • Honoring loved ones keeps their presence alive; legacy is lived, not just remembered
  • Children learn how to carry grief by observing how we do it
  • Beauty and sorrow can coexist
  • Grief deepens our appreciation for life and what truly matters

Connect with guest, Carl Manlan:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What does grief teach us about how to live, lead, and love? What happens when the work we do in the world meets what we’re carrying inside?

In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with development practitioner, global thought leader, and poet Carl Manlan, author of i can breathe, for a moving conversation on grief, legacy, resilience, and meaning.

Carl reflects on how loss reshaped his understanding of resilience, leadership, and what it means to honor those who came before us, and the grief that arises from life changes, transitions, and the unexpected losses that quietly reshape our lives. His poetry became a necessary language for grief, a way to express what policy, strategy, and everyday conversation often cannot.

Nina and Carl explore grief as an experience rooted in love, memory, and connection. They discuss how creativity and poetry can support healing, how personal loss deepens our capacity for service and leadership, and how parental and intergenerational influence continues to shape the way we show up for ourselves and our children.

This episode is a gentle reminder that grief is not just sorrow. It's also about legacy, memory, and the courage to keep breathing. Carl’s poems chart the path between losing and learning to live with loss, offering honesty, tenderness, and the wisdom of someone who has walked this path.

This conversation explores:

  • Why “you only grieve what you love”
  • Poetry and creativity as vessels for grief
  • The connection between loss and leadership
  • How upbringing and parental influence shape resilience and service
  • Finding joy, gratitude, and meaning alongside grief
  • Parenting and legacy: what we pass on to our children emotionally
  • Creativity as a survival tool
  • The symbolism behind Carl’s poetry and imagery
  • Creating space for future generations to express emotion

Key Takeaways:

  • Grief is the echo of love; we grieve because we have loved deeply
  • Grief is sensory and embodied, living in memory, feeling, and the body
  • Poetry and creative expression can hold what logic and language cannot
  • Loss can clarify purpose and inspire deeper service
  • Honoring loved ones keeps their presence alive; legacy is lived, not just remembered
  • Children learn how to carry grief by observing how we do it
  • Beauty and sorrow can coexist
  • Grief deepens our appreciation for life and what truly matters

Connect with guest, Carl Manlan:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18606980 Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 3801 grief podcast, grief and loss support, poetry and grief, resilience after loss, leadership and grief, grieving a parent, healing through poetry, emotional resilience, legacy and loss, grief conversations, Carl Manlan, I Can Breathe poetry book 4 103 full false Carl Manlan Nina Rodriguez Hope is a Verb: Staying Human in Uncertain Times Hope is a Verb: Staying Human in Uncertain Times In this solo episode of Grief and Light, Nina Rodriguez reflects on the ambient grief many of us are carrying in response to global, political, and collective uncertainty.

After taking a pause to tend to her own nervous system and grief, Nina shares a reflection rooted in presence rather than answers, exploring what it means to keep creating, caring, and staying human when the world feels overwhelming and dissonant.

Drawing on grief literacy, nervous system awareness, and the story behind Claude Monet’s Water Lilies, this episode gently reframes hope not as a feeling, but as an action, something we practice in small, everyday ways, even when clarity feels out of reach.

This is an episode for anyone feeling frozen, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward without turning away from reality.

Referenced in This Episode:

This Episode Explores

  • Ambient and collective grief in times of global and political disruption
  • Nervous system overwhelm, freeze responses, and grief fatigue
  • The dissonance of daily life continuing during crisis
  • Hope as a verb rather than something we wait for
  • Art, creation, and meaning-making during times of war and uncertainty
  • Claude Monet’s Water Lilies as a historical response to personal and collective trauma
  • Staying engaged without becoming consumed
  • Choosing presence, care, and humanity in small, ordinary ways

This Episode Is For

  • Those feeling overwhelmed by world events and political realities
  • Grievers navigating uncertainty without clear answers
  • Creators questioning the role of art, work, or expression during crisis
  • Anyone feeling disconnected, frozen, or unsure how to “show up” right now
  • Listeners seeking grief-literate reflection rather than solutions
  • Grieving hearts seeking messages of hope

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this solo episode of Grief and Light, Nina Rodriguez reflects on the ambient grief many of us are carrying in response to global, political, and collective uncertainty.

After taking a pause to tend to her own nervous system and grief, Nina shares a reflection rooted in presence rather than answers, exploring what it means to keep creating, caring, and staying human when the world feels overwhelming and dissonant.

Drawing on grief literacy, nervous system awareness, and the story behind Claude Monet’s Water Lilies, this episode gently reframes hope not as a feeling, but as an action, something we practice in small, everyday ways, even when clarity feels out of reach.

This is an episode for anyone feeling frozen, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward without turning away from reality.

Referenced in This Episode:

This Episode Explores

  • Ambient and collective grief in times of global and political disruption
  • Nervous system overwhelm, freeze responses, and grief fatigue
  • The dissonance of daily life continuing during crisis
  • Hope as a verb rather than something we wait for
  • Art, creation, and meaning-making during times of war and uncertainty
  • Claude Monet’s Water Lilies as a historical response to personal and collective trauma
  • Staying engaged without becoming consumed
  • Choosing presence, care, and humanity in small, ordinary ways

This Episode Is For

  • Those feeling overwhelmed by world events and political realities
  • Grievers navigating uncertainty without clear answers
  • Creators questioning the role of art, work, or expression during crisis
  • Anyone feeling disconnected, frozen, or unsure how to “show up” right now
  • Listeners seeking grief-literate reflection rather than solutions
  • Grieving hearts seeking messages of hope

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18561236 Fri, 23 Jan 2026 21:00:00 -0500 855 grief, collective grief, ambient grief, political grief, global grief, uncertainty, grief literacy, hope, hope is a verb, staying human, nervous system, emotional regulation, freeze response, shutdown response, meaning making, art and grief, creativity an 4 102 full false Curating Grief: Charlene Lam on Choosing What to Keep vs Release After Loss Curating Grief: Charlene Lam on Choosing What to Keep vs Release After Loss How do we decide what to keep after a loved one dies? 

In this insightful episode, Nina Rodriguez is joined by grief coach, curator of The Grief Gallery™, and author, Charlene Lam, for a deeply human conversation about curating grief: the tender, often overwhelming process of choosing what to keep after loss.

***

Video version available here.

***

After the sudden death of her mother in 2013, Charlene found herself alone with the responsibility of sorting through her mom’s belongings. That experience became the foundation for her work, including the 10 Object Method, a reflective practice that invites grievers to select a small number of meaningful items as a way of honoring relationships, reclaiming narrative, and maintaining continuing bonds.

Together, Nina and Charlene explore the emotional weight of everyday objects, the cultural and personal lenses that shape grief, and the evolving nature of our connection to those who have died. This conversation reminds us that grief is not something to complete or solve, it is something we live with, curate, and carry forward in ways that are deeply personal and uniquely our own.

Whether you’re facing a house full of belongings, grieving a loss beyond death, or simply wondering how memory and meaning intertwine, this episode offers language, permission, and companionship.

Key Takeaways

  • Curating grief is about choosing what holds meaning, not following rules.
  • The 10 Object Method offers a gentle framework for honoring relationships after loss.
  • Belongings can feel emotionally overwhelming, especially when time and resources are limited.
  • Objects often serve as anchors for memory, identity, and continuing bonds.
  • Grief is not static; our relationship with those we’ve lost evolves over time.
  • Everyday items can carry deep symbolic and emotional weight.
  • Grief extends beyond death and includes many forms of loss.
  • Curating memories helps us reclaim our personal narratives.
  • Cultural perspectives shape how grief is experienced and expressed.
  • Sharing stories keeps connection alive and helps reduce isolation.

Guest: Charlene Lam

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How do we decide what to keep after a loved one dies? 

In this insightful episode, Nina Rodriguez is joined by grief coach, curator of The Grief Gallery™, and author, Charlene Lam, for a deeply human conversation about curating grief: the tender, often overwhelming process of choosing what to keep after loss.

***

Video version available here.

***

After the sudden death of her mother in 2013, Charlene found herself alone with the responsibility of sorting through her mom’s belongings. That experience became the foundation for her work, including the 10 Object Method, a reflective practice that invites grievers to select a small number of meaningful items as a way of honoring relationships, reclaiming narrative, and maintaining continuing bonds.

Together, Nina and Charlene explore the emotional weight of everyday objects, the cultural and personal lenses that shape grief, and the evolving nature of our connection to those who have died. This conversation reminds us that grief is not something to complete or solve, it is something we live with, curate, and carry forward in ways that are deeply personal and uniquely our own.

Whether you’re facing a house full of belongings, grieving a loss beyond death, or simply wondering how memory and meaning intertwine, this episode offers language, permission, and companionship.

Key Takeaways

  • Curating grief is about choosing what holds meaning, not following rules.
  • The 10 Object Method offers a gentle framework for honoring relationships after loss.
  • Belongings can feel emotionally overwhelming, especially when time and resources are limited.
  • Objects often serve as anchors for memory, identity, and continuing bonds.
  • Grief is not static; our relationship with those we’ve lost evolves over time.
  • Everyday items can carry deep symbolic and emotional weight.
  • Grief extends beyond death and includes many forms of loss.
  • Curating memories helps us reclaim our personal narratives.
  • Cultural perspectives shape how grief is experienced and expressed.
  • Sharing stories keeps connection alive and helps reduce isolation.

Guest: Charlene Lam

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18389687 Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500 3703 grief, grief and loss, curating grief, meaningful objects, charlene lam, continuing bonds, memory, grief rituals, personal narrative, cultural grief, healing, remembrance, identity, legacy 4 101 full false Charlene Lam Nina Rodriguez 100 Episodes of Leaning Into Grief — Navigating Life Shifts with Matt & Nina 100 Episodes of Leaning Into Grief — Navigating Life Shifts with Matt & Nina Episode 100 of Grief and Light marks a meaningful milestone shaped not only by consistency and care, but by the relationships formed along the way. Nina Rodriguez chose to honor this moment with a feed swap: a deeply personal episode originally recorded for The Life Shift Podcast, hosted by fellow podcaster and friend Matt Gilhooly.

***

Read: 

Grief and Light Podcast: Exploring Grief & Lighting the Way to Hope by Frank Racioppi, EAR WORTHY

***

This episode reflects one of the most unexpected and beautiful ripple effects of saying yes to grief work: the genuine connections that emerge when we choose to stay in honest conversation over time. In this role-reversed dialogue, Matt interviews Nina about the sudden loss of her brother and the life-altering moment that reshaped everything that followed.

Nina reflects on the spontaneous decision to visit her brother on his birthday, followed by the shock, surrealism, and disorientation of receiving the news of his unexpected death. She speaks openly about his long-term sobriety, the hope and plans they held for his future, and the complexity of grieving someone whose life carried both struggle and profound love.

Nina and Matt explore the unpredictable nature of life, the emotional disconnection that often accompanies sudden loss, and the quiet ways grief changes how we move through the world. What emerges is a story of learning how to live with grief.

Nina shares how creating Grief and Light became a way to stay in relationship with her grief, transforming pain into presence, isolation into connection, and making meaning.

This episode is a meditation on human connection, the power of curiosity in times of loss, and the possibility of honoring grief without needing to resolve it.

Key Takeaways:

  • One of the beautiful ripple effects of this journey is the meaningful connections it has forged.
  • About 5% of podcasts make it past the 100th episode.
  • You don’t need answers or clarity to be present with grief.
  • Meaning-making after loss is not linear or prescriptive; it unfolds in its own time.
  • Grief can change how we relate to ourselves, our relationships, and our sense of the future.
  • Curiosity can be a gentler companion than certainty when navigating loss.
  • Honoring someone’s full story (including struggle, hope, and love) matters in grief.
  • Human connection is one of the most sustaining forces during times of loss.
  • Joy and sorrow are not opposites; they can coexist.
  • Staying in relationship with grief can transform isolation into connection.


Connect with Matt Gilhooly:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Episode 100 of Grief and Light marks a meaningful milestone shaped not only by consistency and care, but by the relationships formed along the way. Nina Rodriguez chose to honor this moment with a feed swap: a deeply personal episode originally recorded for The Life Shift Podcast, hosted by fellow podcaster and friend Matt Gilhooly.

***

Read: 

Grief and Light Podcast: Exploring Grief & Lighting the Way to Hope by Frank Racioppi, EAR WORTHY

***

This episode reflects one of the most unexpected and beautiful ripple effects of saying yes to grief work: the genuine connections that emerge when we choose to stay in honest conversation over time. In this role-reversed dialogue, Matt interviews Nina about the sudden loss of her brother and the life-altering moment that reshaped everything that followed.

Nina reflects on the spontaneous decision to visit her brother on his birthday, followed by the shock, surrealism, and disorientation of receiving the news of his unexpected death. She speaks openly about his long-term sobriety, the hope and plans they held for his future, and the complexity of grieving someone whose life carried both struggle and profound love.

Nina and Matt explore the unpredictable nature of life, the emotional disconnection that often accompanies sudden loss, and the quiet ways grief changes how we move through the world. What emerges is a story of learning how to live with grief.

Nina shares how creating Grief and Light became a way to stay in relationship with her grief, transforming pain into presence, isolation into connection, and making meaning.

This episode is a meditation on human connection, the power of curiosity in times of loss, and the possibility of honoring grief without needing to resolve it.

Key Takeaways:

  • One of the beautiful ripple effects of this journey is the meaningful connections it has forged.
  • About 5% of podcasts make it past the 100th episode.
  • You don’t need answers or clarity to be present with grief.
  • Meaning-making after loss is not linear or prescriptive; it unfolds in its own time.
  • Grief can change how we relate to ourselves, our relationships, and our sense of the future.
  • Curiosity can be a gentler companion than certainty when navigating loss.
  • Honoring someone’s full story (including struggle, hope, and love) matters in grief.
  • Human connection is one of the most sustaining forces during times of loss.
  • Joy and sorrow are not opposites; they can coexist.
  • Staying in relationship with grief can transform isolation into connection.


Connect with Matt Gilhooly:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18367831 Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500 3950 grief, grief and loss, sudden loss, sibling loss, navigating grief, life shift podcast, episode 100, healing, meaning after loss 4 100 full false Matt Gilhooly Nina Rodriguez Women Who Podcast: Kathy Barron on Grief, Creativity, and Building Community Women Who Podcast: Kathy Barron on Grief, Creativity, and Building Community An honest exploration of grief, creativity, and community with the visionary behind Women Who Podcast magazine—covering storytelling, anticipatory grief, and the movement to amplify women’s voices in podcasting.

In this conversation, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Kathy Barron, founder and Editor-in-Chief of Women Who Podcast Magazine, to explore the power of women’s voices, the complexity of grief, and the courage it takes to tell honest stories.

***

Video available here

***

Kathy shares the origin story behind the magazine: a space born from her desire to see women not just represented in podcasting, but truly celebrated. As the conversation unfolds, Kathy opens up about her own relationship to loss, including the quiet, complicated ache of anticipatory grief as she navigates her mother’s aging, as well as moments of soul-level connection she feels with farming communities and Mexican culture.

Nina and Kathy explore how grief shapes identity, creativity, and the way we move through the world. They talk about the tension between what we hold privately and what we offer publicly, the healing potential of artistic expression, and the moments of clarity that come from living inside “the dash”—the space between birth and death.

Kathy also reflects on the evolving landscape of podcasting, from the pressures of imposter syndrome to the new possibilities—and challenges—posed by AI. She offers grounded, generous advice for aspiring women podcasters seeking connection, mentorship, and confidence in a space that hasn’t always made room for them.

This episode is a reminder that storytelling is community-building, grief is deeply personal but never solitary, and women’s voices deserve to take up space—loudly, boldly, and without apology.

Key Takeaways

  • Women Who Podcast magazine amplifies and uplifts women’s voices across the industry.
  • Community is essential for creative collaboration, support, and sustainability.
  • Grief manifests differently for everyone, shaped by personal and generational experiences.
  • Artistic expression—writing, podcasting, humor—can deepen connection and understanding.
  • Anticipatory grief involves mourning who someone once was while caring for who they are now.
  • Hard conversations about mortality, aging, and loss are uncomfortable—but necessary.
  • Sarcasm can be a tool for truth-telling and authenticity in storytelling.
  • Aspiring podcasters benefit from mentorship, collaboration, and supportive networks.
  • Critical thinking is more important than ever in a rapidly shifting tech landscape.
  • Reclaiming creativity in the age of AI matters for podcasters, writers, and artists alike.

Gue

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> An honest exploration of grief, creativity, and community with the visionary behind Women Who Podcast magazine—covering storytelling, anticipatory grief, and the movement to amplify women’s voices in podcasting.

In this conversation, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Kathy Barron, founder and Editor-in-Chief of Women Who Podcast Magazine, to explore the power of women’s voices, the complexity of grief, and the courage it takes to tell honest stories.

***

Video available here

***

Kathy shares the origin story behind the magazine: a space born from her desire to see women not just represented in podcasting, but truly celebrated. As the conversation unfolds, Kathy opens up about her own relationship to loss, including the quiet, complicated ache of anticipatory grief as she navigates her mother’s aging, as well as moments of soul-level connection she feels with farming communities and Mexican culture.

Nina and Kathy explore how grief shapes identity, creativity, and the way we move through the world. They talk about the tension between what we hold privately and what we offer publicly, the healing potential of artistic expression, and the moments of clarity that come from living inside “the dash”—the space between birth and death.

Kathy also reflects on the evolving landscape of podcasting, from the pressures of imposter syndrome to the new possibilities—and challenges—posed by AI. She offers grounded, generous advice for aspiring women podcasters seeking connection, mentorship, and confidence in a space that hasn’t always made room for them.

This episode is a reminder that storytelling is community-building, grief is deeply personal but never solitary, and women’s voices deserve to take up space—loudly, boldly, and without apology.

Key Takeaways

  • Women Who Podcast magazine amplifies and uplifts women’s voices across the industry.
  • Community is essential for creative collaboration, support, and sustainability.
  • Grief manifests differently for everyone, shaped by personal and generational experiences.
  • Artistic expression—writing, podcasting, humor—can deepen connection and understanding.
  • Anticipatory grief involves mourning who someone once was while caring for who they are now.
  • Hard conversations about mortality, aging, and loss are uncomfortable—but necessary.
  • Sarcasm can be a tool for truth-telling and authenticity in storytelling.
  • Aspiring podcasters benefit from mentorship, collaboration, and supportive networks.
  • Critical thinking is more important than ever in a rapidly shifting tech landscape.
  • Reclaiming creativity in the age of AI matters for podcasters, writers, and artists alike.

Gue

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18349197 Tue, 16 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3397 women who podcast, kathy barron, women in podcasting, podcast community, women creators, podcast mentorship, podcast leadership, amplifying women’s voices, creative storytelling, authenticity in podcasting, anticipatory grief, women-led media, independent 4 99 full false Kathy Barron Nina Rodriguez How solo travel helped this Latina find herself again with Bianca Alba How solo travel helped this Latina find herself again with Bianca Alba Sometimes, healing begins in motion. In this episode, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Bianca Alba, founder of This Latina Travels, to explore how grief, identity, and travel intertwine. What starts as a conversation about exploring the world becomes a deeper story about returning to yourself.

***

Video available here

***

Her story begins in a single-parent household where vacations felt like something other people did, faraway dreams that didn’t belong to families like hers. Today, Bianca has traveled to six continents and uses her platform to show women of color what’s possible when you give yourself permission to go. Her work reminds us that representation isn’t just inspiring, it’s necessary.

Nina and Bianca also reflect on the power of community, having recently shared virtual space as speakers at the Latinas in Podcasting Summit 2025. The conversation moves through grief, identity, purpose, and the courage it takes to keep expanding your life after loss.

Bianca opens up about the Lola Challenge, a three-day running event in Puerto Rico that connects her to her body, her resilience, and the island she now calls home. She recounts a deeply emotional moment on a beach in the Virgin Islands that reminded her how grief meets us wherever we are.

They also explore the complexities of traveling during political and social turbulence, including recent US disruptions affecting travelers. Bianca speaks honestly about the privilege and guilt of being a travel content creator during difficult times, and how she balances joy with responsibility, visibility, and awareness.

Her love for Puerto Rico weaves through the conversation—its beauty, its challenges, and the hope she carries for change. Bianca shares her vision for future retreats on the island: spaces rooted in culture, learning, healing, and community. Places where women can breathe, honor their grief, and rediscover parts of themselves that got lost along the way.

This episode is an invitation to rethink how movement, land, and connection can hold us through grief. A reminder that healing isn’t linear; it’s lived, mile by mile, moment by moment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Travel can be a companion to grief, offering new ways to process loss.
  • Representation matters—It can be life-changing for women of color to see themselves in spaces historically closed to them.
  • Grief and joy often coexist, and choosing adventure after loss isn’t forgetting—it's honoring the fullness of being alive.
  • Community heals—from podcast summits to shared stories, connection lights the way forward.
  • Travel during turbulent times is complex, and it’s okay to hold both gratitude and discomfort as you navigate privilege and responsibility.
  • Puerto Rico holds deep lessons about resi

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Sometimes, healing begins in motion. In this episode, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Bianca Alba, founder of This Latina Travels, to explore how grief, identity, and travel intertwine. What starts as a conversation about exploring the world becomes a deeper story about returning to yourself.

***

Video available here

***

Her story begins in a single-parent household where vacations felt like something other people did, faraway dreams that didn’t belong to families like hers. Today, Bianca has traveled to six continents and uses her platform to show women of color what’s possible when you give yourself permission to go. Her work reminds us that representation isn’t just inspiring, it’s necessary.

Nina and Bianca also reflect on the power of community, having recently shared virtual space as speakers at the Latinas in Podcasting Summit 2025. The conversation moves through grief, identity, purpose, and the courage it takes to keep expanding your life after loss.

Bianca opens up about the Lola Challenge, a three-day running event in Puerto Rico that connects her to her body, her resilience, and the island she now calls home. She recounts a deeply emotional moment on a beach in the Virgin Islands that reminded her how grief meets us wherever we are.

They also explore the complexities of traveling during political and social turbulence, including recent US disruptions affecting travelers. Bianca speaks honestly about the privilege and guilt of being a travel content creator during difficult times, and how she balances joy with responsibility, visibility, and awareness.

Her love for Puerto Rico weaves through the conversation—its beauty, its challenges, and the hope she carries for change. Bianca shares her vision for future retreats on the island: spaces rooted in culture, learning, healing, and community. Places where women can breathe, honor their grief, and rediscover parts of themselves that got lost along the way.

This episode is an invitation to rethink how movement, land, and connection can hold us through grief. A reminder that healing isn’t linear; it’s lived, mile by mile, moment by moment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Travel can be a companion to grief, offering new ways to process loss.
  • Representation matters—It can be life-changing for women of color to see themselves in spaces historically closed to them.
  • Grief and joy often coexist, and choosing adventure after loss isn’t forgetting—it's honoring the fullness of being alive.
  • Community heals—from podcast summits to shared stories, connection lights the way forward.
  • Travel during turbulent times is complex, and it’s okay to hold both gratitude and discomfort as you navigate privilege and responsibility.
  • Puerto Rico holds deep lessons about resi

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18319102 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3040 grief and travel, solo female travel, Latina traveler, Bianca Alba, This Latina Travels, first-gen Latina, grief healing, grief journey, self discovery, healing through travel, women of color travel, Puerto Rico travel, Latina podcasters, travel storytell 4 98 full false Bianca Alba Nina Rodriguez Get Griefy With Us: A Grief Week Roundtable on How Loss Shakes Up Family and Community Get Griefy With Us: A Grief Week Roundtable on How Loss Shakes Up Family and Community What happens when you gather a circle of grievers, creators, and grief-literacy leaders around one table and ask them to tell the truth about how loss has reshaped their families, and their lives?

In this special Grief Week episode of Grief and Light, we find out.

*** Watch the video here. ***

This episode is an offering for anyone navigating family changes after loss, for anyone bracing for the holidays, and for anyone who needs to hear that their grief makes sense, that their story matters, and that connection is still possible even in the midst of heartbreak.

Each year, the first week of December marks Grief Week—a global invitation to slow down, raise awareness, open conversations, and build a more grief-informed world. In honor of this mission, Nina Rodriguez brings together members of the Get Griefy Small Business Collective for a roundtable conversation that feels equal parts honest, tender, and unexpectedly uplifting.

From the moment the mic turns on, the episode unfolds like a shared living room, where stories overlap, tears sit beside laughter, and the complexity of grief is met with curiosity instead of fear. Together, Nina and her guests explore how loss ripples through families: the shifting dynamics, the roles we grow into (or out of), the unspoken tensions, and the surprising places where connection begins to mend what grief has fractured.

What emerges is not just a conversation, but a reminder:
Grief may isolate, but community brings us home to ourselves.
Through creativity, storytelling, mutual witnessing, and the simple act of speaking honestly, this group shows what’s possible when we don’t grieve alone.

Connect with our guests & their offerings:

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grie

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What happens when you gather a circle of grievers, creators, and grief-literacy leaders around one table and ask them to tell the truth about how loss has reshaped their families, and their lives?

In this special Grief Week episode of Grief and Light, we find out.

*** Watch the video here. ***

This episode is an offering for anyone navigating family changes after loss, for anyone bracing for the holidays, and for anyone who needs to hear that their grief makes sense, that their story matters, and that connection is still possible even in the midst of heartbreak.

Each year, the first week of December marks Grief Week—a global invitation to slow down, raise awareness, open conversations, and build a more grief-informed world. In honor of this mission, Nina Rodriguez brings together members of the Get Griefy Small Business Collective for a roundtable conversation that feels equal parts honest, tender, and unexpectedly uplifting.

From the moment the mic turns on, the episode unfolds like a shared living room, where stories overlap, tears sit beside laughter, and the complexity of grief is met with curiosity instead of fear. Together, Nina and her guests explore how loss ripples through families: the shifting dynamics, the roles we grow into (or out of), the unspoken tensions, and the surprising places where connection begins to mend what grief has fractured.

What emerges is not just a conversation, but a reminder:
Grief may isolate, but community brings us home to ourselves.
Through creativity, storytelling, mutual witnessing, and the simple act of speaking honestly, this group shows what’s possible when we don’t grieve alone.

Connect with our guests & their offerings:

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grie

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18231030 Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 4554 4 97 full false Amanda McKoy Flanagan Angie Hanson Charlene Lam Kera Sanchez Liz Quinn Nina Rodriguez Evolving and Growing with Grief: A Grief Awareness Week Roundtable with 3 Grief-focused Podcasters Evolving and Growing with Grief: A Grief Awareness Week Roundtable with 3 Grief-focused Podcasters What happens when three grief podcasters sit down to talk about the happiest–saddest time of the year?

In this special Grief Awareness Week episode, three grief storytellers and space-holders — Nina Rodriguez (Grief and Light), Liz Quinn (Healing Hearts Podcast), and Tara Accardo (Life with Grief podcast) — come together for a conversation that’s equal parts honest, tender, and deeply human.

***

The video version is available here.

***

What unfolds is a spacious, story-rich dialogue about the many faces of grief: the way it evolves over time, the way it reshapes who we are, and the way the holidays often magnify both the ache and the sweetness. Together, the three share how their losses — Nina’s 32-year-old brother, Liz’s newborn daughter and both parents, and Tara’s parents and beloved 19-year-old dog — continue to ripple through their lives in ways that are both painful and illuminating.

They explore the early fog of grief, the physicality of sorrow, the rituals and traditions that tether us to our people, and the power of setting boundaries when the world expects more than we can give. They reflect on identity, envy, unexpected joy, and the healing that happens when we speak our stories out loud and are met with understanding instead of silence.

This episode feels like sitting with friends who get it. Three women navigating grief personally and professionally, carving out space for truth, connection, and the radical permission to feel it all.

It will air on all three podcasts.

Key Takeaways

  • Grief evolves constantly, shifting shape over time but never disappearing.
  • Storytelling creates connection, offering validation, healing, and community.
  • The first year of loss is disorienting, full of numbness and overwhelm.
  • Rituals and traditions can honor loved ones, especially during the holidays.
  • Clear boundaries are essential — it’s okay to opt out, slow down, or protect your energy.
  • Grief impacts the body, not just the heart and mind.
  • Community support softens the edges, reminding us we’re not alone.
  • Every grief journey is unique, and there’s no one “right” way to move through it.
  • Joy can coexist with grief, even when it feels fragile or unexpected.
  • All emotions are valid, especially during tender seasons like the holidays.

The Grief and Light podcast is hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

  • Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guid

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What happens when three grief podcasters sit down to talk about the happiest–saddest time of the year?

In this special Grief Awareness Week episode, three grief storytellers and space-holders — Nina Rodriguez (Grief and Light), Liz Quinn (Healing Hearts Podcast), and Tara Accardo (Life with Grief podcast) — come together for a conversation that’s equal parts honest, tender, and deeply human.

***

The video version is available here.

***

What unfolds is a spacious, story-rich dialogue about the many faces of grief: the way it evolves over time, the way it reshapes who we are, and the way the holidays often magnify both the ache and the sweetness. Together, the three share how their losses — Nina’s 32-year-old brother, Liz’s newborn daughter and both parents, and Tara’s parents and beloved 19-year-old dog — continue to ripple through their lives in ways that are both painful and illuminating.

They explore the early fog of grief, the physicality of sorrow, the rituals and traditions that tether us to our people, and the power of setting boundaries when the world expects more than we can give. They reflect on identity, envy, unexpected joy, and the healing that happens when we speak our stories out loud and are met with understanding instead of silence.

This episode feels like sitting with friends who get it. Three women navigating grief personally and professionally, carving out space for truth, connection, and the radical permission to feel it all.

It will air on all three podcasts.

Key Takeaways

  • Grief evolves constantly, shifting shape over time but never disappearing.
  • Storytelling creates connection, offering validation, healing, and community.
  • The first year of loss is disorienting, full of numbness and overwhelm.
  • Rituals and traditions can honor loved ones, especially during the holidays.
  • Clear boundaries are essential — it’s okay to opt out, slow down, or protect your energy.
  • Grief impacts the body, not just the heart and mind.
  • Community support softens the edges, reminding us we’re not alone.
  • Every grief journey is unique, and there’s no one “right” way to move through it.
  • Joy can coexist with grief, even when it feels fragile or unexpected.
  • All emotions are valid, especially during tender seasons like the holidays.

The Grief and Light podcast is hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

  • Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guid

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18270778 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3765 4 96 full false Liz Quinn Tara Accardo Nina Rodriguez The Light That Shines Through Me: Tiriq Rashad on Grief, Family, and Spoken Word The Light That Shines Through Me: Tiriq Rashad on Grief, Family, and Spoken Word Some stories are written in ink. Others are written in loss, love, and everything that comes after. 

Today’s guest is Tiriq Rashad, spoken word artist, whose life has been shaped by the grief of losing his daughter, brother, and mother, and by the courage to transform that pain into poetry, music, and meaning. Through his books Shine Through Our Shade and A Diamond in God’s Dirt, and now his new album Kiss My Art, Tiriq invites us into the alchemy of survival where art becomes a way home to ourselves.

***

Watch video version here

***

Together, Nina and Tiriq explore the unpolished, raw realities of grieving: the trauma that lingers, the relief of finally speaking your truth, the grounding power of therapy, and the courage it takes to show up vulnerable. Tiriq shares how grief propelled him toward expression, how strength can emerge through vulnerability, and how poetry, music, and storytelling became a space where love and pain coexist.

This conversation reminds us that grief doesn’t need to be fixed, it needs to be witnessed. Through Tiriq’s story, we’re invited to lean into connection, share what hurts, and trust that creative expression can guide us back to ourselves, one honest moment at a time.

Key Takeaways

  • Art becomes a way to return to ourselves and rediscover meaning after loss.
  • Vulnerability is essential in expressing and navigating grief.
  • Every loss carries a distinct trauma and teaches us something different.
  • Honoring loved ones through creativity can be deeply healing.
  • Therapy provides tools, grounding, and perspective during the grieving process.
  • Acceptance isn’t passive. It’s an active part of moving forward with grief.
  • People “wear” grief differently; there is no right way to grieve.
  • Connection and community are crucial in the healing journey.
  • Sharing our stories can inspire courage and connection in others.
  • Self-tending is necessary to sustain ourselves through grief.

Guest: Tiriq Rashad

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Some stories are written in ink. Others are written in loss, love, and everything that comes after. 

Today’s guest is Tiriq Rashad, spoken word artist, whose life has been shaped by the grief of losing his daughter, brother, and mother, and by the courage to transform that pain into poetry, music, and meaning. Through his books Shine Through Our Shade and A Diamond in God’s Dirt, and now his new album Kiss My Art, Tiriq invites us into the alchemy of survival where art becomes a way home to ourselves.

***

Watch video version here

***

Together, Nina and Tiriq explore the unpolished, raw realities of grieving: the trauma that lingers, the relief of finally speaking your truth, the grounding power of therapy, and the courage it takes to show up vulnerable. Tiriq shares how grief propelled him toward expression, how strength can emerge through vulnerability, and how poetry, music, and storytelling became a space where love and pain coexist.

This conversation reminds us that grief doesn’t need to be fixed, it needs to be witnessed. Through Tiriq’s story, we’re invited to lean into connection, share what hurts, and trust that creative expression can guide us back to ourselves, one honest moment at a time.

Key Takeaways

  • Art becomes a way to return to ourselves and rediscover meaning after loss.
  • Vulnerability is essential in expressing and navigating grief.
  • Every loss carries a distinct trauma and teaches us something different.
  • Honoring loved ones through creativity can be deeply healing.
  • Therapy provides tools, grounding, and perspective during the grieving process.
  • Acceptance isn’t passive. It’s an active part of moving forward with grief.
  • People “wear” grief differently; there is no right way to grieve.
  • Connection and community are crucial in the healing journey.
  • Sharing our stories can inspire courage and connection in others.
  • Self-tending is necessary to sustain ourselves through grief.

Guest: Tiriq Rashad

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18254928 Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3137 Tiriq Rashad, grief, loss, spoken word, poetry, music, creative healing, family loss, loss of a mother, sibling loss, resilience, therapy, men's mental health, healing through art, personal growth, emotional expression, grief journey, coping with loss, ov 4 95 full false Tiriq Rashad Nina Rodriguez How Digital Data Is Rewriting Suicide Prevention with Kim Burditt Barlett How Digital Data Is Rewriting Suicide Prevention with Kim Burditt Barlett Grief doesn’t just reshape us, it can redirect the entire course of our lives in ways we never saw coming. 

***

Video available here

***

For Kim Burditt Barlett, that redirection began the day her brother Jon, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, died by suicide in 2010. What followed was a profound transformation that eventually led her into suicide prevention work and, ultimately, to her role at Stop Soldier Suicide.

In this episode, Kim sits down with Nina to explore the layered reality of suicide loss—the silence, the stigma, the unanswered questions, and the way it can feel both isolating and overwhelming, even in a room full of support. Kim speaks to the particular complexities faced by military families, where grief is often compounded by systemic gaps, cultural expectations, and a lack of adequate support.

They also dive into the Black Box Project, a groundbreaking effort at Stop Soldier Suicide that analyzes digital behavior from voluntarily donated devices to better understand risk and, hopefully, save lives. Kim discusses the powerful act of families choosing to share their loved one's digital footprint, transforming loss into a legacy of prevention and protection for others.

Kim also introduces Sibling Strong Retreats, the adventure-based healing community she co-founded for sibling loss survivors.

Throughout the conversation, Kim reminds us that grief may break us open, but what grows from that fracture can be meaningful, connective, and deeply human. 

And with compassion, courage, and a willingness to stay present to our pain, post-traumatic growth is possible.

Key Takeaways

  • Meaning-making is a natural and powerful response to grief.
  • Life can redirect entirely after a significant loss, sometimes toward unexpected purpose.
  • Peer support is crucial, especially for suicide loss survivors.
  • Post-traumatic growth can coexist with grief.
  • Being honest with children about loss builds trust and emotional resilience.
  • Sibling loss carries unique secondary losses and identity shifts.
  • Many mental health professionals lack adequate suicide prevention training.
  • Military families often face systemic gaps in grief and mental health support.
  • Sharing details of a loss is a personal choice; no one owes their story.
  • Community-driven approaches are essential in addressing the suicide crisis.
  • Choosing how to respond to grief can be empowering and transformative.

Guest: Kim Burditt-Barlett, MSW

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Grief doesn’t just reshape us, it can redirect the entire course of our lives in ways we never saw coming. 

***

Video available here

***

For Kim Burditt Barlett, that redirection began the day her brother Jon, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, died by suicide in 2010. What followed was a profound transformation that eventually led her into suicide prevention work and, ultimately, to her role at Stop Soldier Suicide.

In this episode, Kim sits down with Nina to explore the layered reality of suicide loss—the silence, the stigma, the unanswered questions, and the way it can feel both isolating and overwhelming, even in a room full of support. Kim speaks to the particular complexities faced by military families, where grief is often compounded by systemic gaps, cultural expectations, and a lack of adequate support.

They also dive into the Black Box Project, a groundbreaking effort at Stop Soldier Suicide that analyzes digital behavior from voluntarily donated devices to better understand risk and, hopefully, save lives. Kim discusses the powerful act of families choosing to share their loved one's digital footprint, transforming loss into a legacy of prevention and protection for others.

Kim also introduces Sibling Strong Retreats, the adventure-based healing community she co-founded for sibling loss survivors.

Throughout the conversation, Kim reminds us that grief may break us open, but what grows from that fracture can be meaningful, connective, and deeply human. 

And with compassion, courage, and a willingness to stay present to our pain, post-traumatic growth is possible.

Key Takeaways

  • Meaning-making is a natural and powerful response to grief.
  • Life can redirect entirely after a significant loss, sometimes toward unexpected purpose.
  • Peer support is crucial, especially for suicide loss survivors.
  • Post-traumatic growth can coexist with grief.
  • Being honest with children about loss builds trust and emotional resilience.
  • Sibling loss carries unique secondary losses and identity shifts.
  • Many mental health professionals lack adequate suicide prevention training.
  • Military families often face systemic gaps in grief and mental health support.
  • Sharing details of a loss is a personal choice; no one owes their story.
  • Community-driven approaches are essential in addressing the suicide crisis.
  • Choosing how to respond to grief can be empowering and transformative.

Guest: Kim Burditt-Barlett, MSW

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18240516 Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3702 4 94 full false Kim Burditt Barlett, MSW Nina Rodriguez Sibling Loss and Disenfranchised Grief with Dr. Angela Dean Sibling Loss and Disenfranchised Grief with Dr. Angela Dean How does life shift when you lose the only person who shared your beginnings — your earliest memories, your inside jokes, your sense of home?

In this tender and illuminating conversation, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with Dr. Angela Dean, a licensed psychologist, thanatologist, and founder of The Broken Pack™—an organization and podcast created to validate and support adults grieving the loss of a sibling.

***

Video is available here.

***

After the unexpected death of her brother, Tony, Dr. Dean channeled her grief into advocacy, research, and community-building for those whose pain is often unseen. Together, Nina and Angela explore the unique nature of sibling loss, including how it impacts family dynamics, identity, and belonging, and why it remains one of the most overlooked forms of grief.

Angela shares the story behind The Broken Pack™, drawing parallels between the way wolves mourn a lost member and how humans experience the reorganization of their “pack” after a sibling’s death. The conversation moves through topics like grief expression, communication styles within families, the evolution of grief theory, and the power of enfranchising what has long been disenfranchised.

This episode invites listeners to reflect on the bonds that continue after loss, the healing potential of language and connection, and the importance of community in tending to sibling grief.

Key Takeaways

  • Sibling loss is one of the most underrecognized yet identity-shaping forms of grief.
  • After a sibling dies, family systems shift; roles, dynamics, and unspoken bonds all reorganize.
  • Grieving styles differ, even within the same family; compassion and communication can help bridge those differences.
  • The metaphor of The Broken Pack™ reminds us that when one member of the “pack” dies, the structure changes forever, but connection endures.
  • Disenfranchised grief (grief that society doesn’t fully acknowledge) can deepen isolation; naming it helps restore dignity and belonging.
  • Theories of grief are evolving, from linear “stages” to models that honor ongoing bonds, meaning-making, and the coexistence of love and loss.
  • Community and conversation are vital to healing; grief needs witnesses, not fixes.
  • The conversation closes with a reminder that even when our “pack” is broken, love continues to ripple outward through story, memory, and connection.

Guest: Angela Dean, PsyD, FT

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How does life shift when you lose the only person who shared your beginnings — your earliest memories, your inside jokes, your sense of home?

In this tender and illuminating conversation, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with Dr. Angela Dean, a licensed psychologist, thanatologist, and founder of The Broken Pack™—an organization and podcast created to validate and support adults grieving the loss of a sibling.

***

Video is available here.

***

After the unexpected death of her brother, Tony, Dr. Dean channeled her grief into advocacy, research, and community-building for those whose pain is often unseen. Together, Nina and Angela explore the unique nature of sibling loss, including how it impacts family dynamics, identity, and belonging, and why it remains one of the most overlooked forms of grief.

Angela shares the story behind The Broken Pack™, drawing parallels between the way wolves mourn a lost member and how humans experience the reorganization of their “pack” after a sibling’s death. The conversation moves through topics like grief expression, communication styles within families, the evolution of grief theory, and the power of enfranchising what has long been disenfranchised.

This episode invites listeners to reflect on the bonds that continue after loss, the healing potential of language and connection, and the importance of community in tending to sibling grief.

Key Takeaways

  • Sibling loss is one of the most underrecognized yet identity-shaping forms of grief.
  • After a sibling dies, family systems shift; roles, dynamics, and unspoken bonds all reorganize.
  • Grieving styles differ, even within the same family; compassion and communication can help bridge those differences.
  • The metaphor of The Broken Pack™ reminds us that when one member of the “pack” dies, the structure changes forever, but connection endures.
  • Disenfranchised grief (grief that society doesn’t fully acknowledge) can deepen isolation; naming it helps restore dignity and belonging.
  • Theories of grief are evolving, from linear “stages” to models that honor ongoing bonds, meaning-making, and the coexistence of love and loss.
  • Community and conversation are vital to healing; grief needs witnesses, not fixes.
  • The conversation closes with a reminder that even when our “pack” is broken, love continues to ripple outward through story, memory, and connection.

Guest: Angela Dean, PsyD, FT

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18168466 Wed, 12 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3285 sibling loss, sibling grief, disenfranchised grief, grief literacy, grief support, grief podcast, grief education, The Broken Pack, Dr. Angela Dean, Grief and Light podcast, sibling bereavement, adult sibling loss, thanatology, continuing bonds 4 93 full false Dr. Angela Dean Nina Rodriguez Healing in the Himalayas: Motorcycle Therapy and Making Meaning After Sibling Loss with Ben Forman Healing in the Himalayas: Motorcycle Therapy and Making Meaning After Sibling Loss with Ben Forman When Ben Forman lost his brother Sam, his world shifted overnight, leaving him with survivor’s guilt, grief for what could have been, and a search for meaning. 

In this episode of Grief and Light, Ben shares how a 10-day motorcycle therapy trip through the Himalayas became a transformative journey of healing, reflection, and connection. Along the way, he immersed himself in nature, friendship, and mindful practices, and drew on conversations with monks and his heritage to navigate loss.

***

This episode is also available in video here.

***

Ben also discusses his deeply personal film, Higher Calling, which captures this journey and explores themes of adventure-based therapy, brotherhood, grief, and the power of storytelling to channel pain into meaning. 

Together, we explore how grief can reshape identity, open new paths for growth, and leave a lasting imprint of love.

Key Takeaways

  • Grief can redefine identity and purpose. It reshapes who we are and invites us to find meaning in a changed world.
  • Survivor’s guilt happens. Acknowledging it helps us honor both our life and the one we lost.
  • Adventure therapy can help us move through grief. Physical journeys, like Ben’s 10-day ride through the Himalayas, can mirror emotional healing.
  • Nature grounds and reflects us. In its stillness and vastness, we can find space to breathe and begin again.
  • Pain reflects love’s depth. The intensity of grief feels like a measure of how deeply we’ve loved.
  • Healing requires patience and self-compassion. Grief has no set timeline. Only gentle permission to mend at your own rhythm.
  • Every grief journey is personal. Healing looks different for everyone; there’s no single path.
  • Suffering can lead to growth. Turning toward pain opens the door to transformation and resilience.
  • Art and storytelling heal. Creative expression helps us make meaning and carry love forward.
  • Sibling bonds endure beyond death. The connection we share with those we’ve lost continues to shape, guide, and illuminate our lives.

Guest: Ben Forman

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

  • Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> When Ben Forman lost his brother Sam, his world shifted overnight, leaving him with survivor’s guilt, grief for what could have been, and a search for meaning. 

In this episode of Grief and Light, Ben shares how a 10-day motorcycle therapy trip through the Himalayas became a transformative journey of healing, reflection, and connection. Along the way, he immersed himself in nature, friendship, and mindful practices, and drew on conversations with monks and his heritage to navigate loss.

***

This episode is also available in video here.

***

Ben also discusses his deeply personal film, Higher Calling, which captures this journey and explores themes of adventure-based therapy, brotherhood, grief, and the power of storytelling to channel pain into meaning. 

Together, we explore how grief can reshape identity, open new paths for growth, and leave a lasting imprint of love.

Key Takeaways

  • Grief can redefine identity and purpose. It reshapes who we are and invites us to find meaning in a changed world.
  • Survivor’s guilt happens. Acknowledging it helps us honor both our life and the one we lost.
  • Adventure therapy can help us move through grief. Physical journeys, like Ben’s 10-day ride through the Himalayas, can mirror emotional healing.
  • Nature grounds and reflects us. In its stillness and vastness, we can find space to breathe and begin again.
  • Pain reflects love’s depth. The intensity of grief feels like a measure of how deeply we’ve loved.
  • Healing requires patience and self-compassion. Grief has no set timeline. Only gentle permission to mend at your own rhythm.
  • Every grief journey is personal. Healing looks different for everyone; there’s no single path.
  • Suffering can lead to growth. Turning toward pain opens the door to transformation and resilience.
  • Art and storytelling heal. Creative expression helps us make meaning and carry love forward.
  • Sibling bonds endure beyond death. The connection we share with those we’ve lost continues to shape, guide, and illuminate our lives.

Guest: Ben Forman

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

  • Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18146432 Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 2966 grief, sibling loss, brother loss, healing journey, motorcycle therapy, adventure therapy, nature healing, post-traumatic growth, survivor’s guilt, grief and identity, Higher Calling film, Ben Forman, grief storytelling, mindfulness, Buddhism and grief 4 92 full false Ben Forman Nina Rodriguez No Man Walks Alone: A Journey Across America for Men’s Mental Health with Robb Pollard No Man Walks Alone: A Journey Across America for Men’s Mental Health with Robb Pollard No man should have to carry it alone.

Many men are hurting in silence, and Robb Pollard knows that silence well.

In this deeply human conversation, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Robb Pollard, founder of Walk With Me Brother, a nonprofit devoted to men’s mental health and connection.

***

VIDEO AVAILABLE HERE

***

Robb shares his journey of living with bipolar disorder, navigating bullying and alcohol, and learning to face the parts of himself he once tried to outrun. What emerges is a story not just of survival, but of purpose. One of transforming pain into a path that invites others to walk beside him.

In April 2026, Robb will begin a 3,600-mile walk across America, carrying with him one message: no man should have to walk alone. 

Through his openness, Robb reminds us that vulnerability isn’t the opposite of strength. It’s the foundation of it.

Together, Nina and Robb explore what happens when men begin to talk, listen, and support one another, and how breaking the silence can change not only individual lives, but entire communities.

This episode is an invitation: to listen differently, to show up for the men in our lives, and to remember that healing starts with a single honest step forward.

Key Takeaways:

  • Many men are hurting in silence and need safe spaces to talk about it.
  • Asking for help can save your life.
  • Vulnerability is a form of strength, not weakness.
  • Bullying and shame can leave lasting marks on mental health.
  • Community and connection are vital for healing.
  • Therapy, medication, and alternative approaches can be life-changing.
  • Listening is an act of love, and often more powerful than advice.
  • Robb’s Walk With Me Brother movement is a call for awareness, compassion, and shared humanity.

Guest: Robb Pollard

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> No man should have to carry it alone.

Many men are hurting in silence, and Robb Pollard knows that silence well.

In this deeply human conversation, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Robb Pollard, founder of Walk With Me Brother, a nonprofit devoted to men’s mental health and connection.

***

VIDEO AVAILABLE HERE

***

Robb shares his journey of living with bipolar disorder, navigating bullying and alcohol, and learning to face the parts of himself he once tried to outrun. What emerges is a story not just of survival, but of purpose. One of transforming pain into a path that invites others to walk beside him.

In April 2026, Robb will begin a 3,600-mile walk across America, carrying with him one message: no man should have to walk alone. 

Through his openness, Robb reminds us that vulnerability isn’t the opposite of strength. It’s the foundation of it.

Together, Nina and Robb explore what happens when men begin to talk, listen, and support one another, and how breaking the silence can change not only individual lives, but entire communities.

This episode is an invitation: to listen differently, to show up for the men in our lives, and to remember that healing starts with a single honest step forward.

Key Takeaways:

  • Many men are hurting in silence and need safe spaces to talk about it.
  • Asking for help can save your life.
  • Vulnerability is a form of strength, not weakness.
  • Bullying and shame can leave lasting marks on mental health.
  • Community and connection are vital for healing.
  • Therapy, medication, and alternative approaches can be life-changing.
  • Listening is an act of love, and often more powerful than advice.
  • Robb’s Walk With Me Brother movement is a call for awareness, compassion, and shared humanity.

Guest: Robb Pollard

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18128050 Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 3871 men’s mental health, vulnerability, bipolar disorder, stigma, community, healing, brotherhood, grief and light, walk with me brother, mental health awareness, emotional wellbeing, grief literacy, healing journey 4 91 full true Robb Pollard Nina Rodriguez Turning Pain Into Poetry: Sara Rian on Grieving and Healing After Loss to Suicide Turning Pain Into Poetry: Sara Rian on Grieving and Healing After Loss to Suicide When Sara Rian’s mother unexpectedly died in 2018, her world, and her words,  changed forever. 

***

This episode is available in video here.

***

What began as a private act of survival through poetry slowly became a bridge to others who were grieving too. Her poems, often found reaching grieving hearts through social media feeds, give voice to what so many can’t yet name: the ache, the confusion, the beauty, and the brutal honesty of grief.

In this conversation, Nina and Sara trace the ways grief reshapes not only the heart but also the body, relationships, and creative expression. Sara shares how poetry became both her mirror and her medicine, helping her navigate the duality of love and pain, the tension between vulnerability and protection, and the ongoing work of tending to loss as both a therapist and a human being who lost her mother to suicide.

Together, they explore what it means to live inside the messiness of grief — where healing isn’t about tidying the pain but learning to move with it. 

The episode both opens and closes with two of Sara’s poems, a quiet reminder that love doesn’t end where life does.


Key Takeaways

  • Grief reshapes how we inhabit our bodies, our creativity, and our relationships.
  • Writing can become a form of survival; a place to meet emotions without needing to fix them.
  • The mother–child bond leaves an indelible mark on how we grieve and love.
  • Grief isn’t only love, it’s also raw, contradictory, and profoundly human.
  • Healing asks for tenderness toward the body as much as the heart.
  • Artistic expression can transform isolation into shared understanding.

Follow Grief and Light wherever you tune in, and join us as we keep exploring the many ways love and loss coexist.

Guest: Sara Rian

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> When Sara Rian’s mother unexpectedly died in 2018, her world, and her words,  changed forever. 

***

This episode is available in video here.

***

What began as a private act of survival through poetry slowly became a bridge to others who were grieving too. Her poems, often found reaching grieving hearts through social media feeds, give voice to what so many can’t yet name: the ache, the confusion, the beauty, and the brutal honesty of grief.

In this conversation, Nina and Sara trace the ways grief reshapes not only the heart but also the body, relationships, and creative expression. Sara shares how poetry became both her mirror and her medicine, helping her navigate the duality of love and pain, the tension between vulnerability and protection, and the ongoing work of tending to loss as both a therapist and a human being who lost her mother to suicide.

Together, they explore what it means to live inside the messiness of grief — where healing isn’t about tidying the pain but learning to move with it. 

The episode both opens and closes with two of Sara’s poems, a quiet reminder that love doesn’t end where life does.


Key Takeaways

  • Grief reshapes how we inhabit our bodies, our creativity, and our relationships.
  • Writing can become a form of survival; a place to meet emotions without needing to fix them.
  • The mother–child bond leaves an indelible mark on how we grieve and love.
  • Grief isn’t only love, it’s also raw, contradictory, and profoundly human.
  • Healing asks for tenderness toward the body as much as the heart.
  • Artistic expression can transform isolation into shared understanding.

Follow Grief and Light wherever you tune in, and join us as we keep exploring the many ways love and loss coexist.

Guest: Sara Rian

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-18065010 Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3230 4 90 full false Sara Rian Nina Rodriguez When Love Asks You to Let Go: Parenting, Grief, and Surrender with Dr. Tasha Faruqui When Love Asks You to Let Go: Parenting, Grief, and Surrender with Dr. Tasha Faruqui A mother’s story of love, advocacy, and finding joy while parenting a child in hospice.

What happens when the life you imagined for your child suddenly changes forever?

For Dr. Tasha Faruqui, that question became her reality when her daughter, Soraya, was born with a rare and little-known genetic condition.

A doctor herself, Tasha thought she knew how to navigate the medical world. But nothing prepared her for the mix of love, fear, and relentless uncertainty that came with parenting a child whose life would look very different from what she’d dreamed.

In this week’s episode, Tasha — physician, advocate, and author of her debut book Keep Your Head Up: A Mother’s Story of Chasing Joy in the Face of Grief — opens up about what it means to grieve the child you imagined while fiercely loving the one in front of you.

We talk about how she’s learned to balance hope and surrender, the ways her other children have shaped her understanding of anticipatory grief, and how joy has become an act of resistance against the unfairness of it all.

Nina and Tasha explore:

  • What it means to grieve the ideal while embracing what is
  • How advocacy and agency intertwine in a child’s care
  • The quiet grief of siblings walking their own path beside medical complexity
  • Why hope and heartbreak can live side by side
  • How spirituality and creativity help her family keep going
  • Why joy isn’t found, it’s chosen, over and over again

If you’ve ever lived between grief and gratitude, this conversation will remind you you can hold both.

Guest: Tasha Faruqui, DO

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> A mother’s story of love, advocacy, and finding joy while parenting a child in hospice.

What happens when the life you imagined for your child suddenly changes forever?

For Dr. Tasha Faruqui, that question became her reality when her daughter, Soraya, was born with a rare and little-known genetic condition.

A doctor herself, Tasha thought she knew how to navigate the medical world. But nothing prepared her for the mix of love, fear, and relentless uncertainty that came with parenting a child whose life would look very different from what she’d dreamed.

In this week’s episode, Tasha — physician, advocate, and author of her debut book Keep Your Head Up: A Mother’s Story of Chasing Joy in the Face of Grief — opens up about what it means to grieve the child you imagined while fiercely loving the one in front of you.

We talk about how she’s learned to balance hope and surrender, the ways her other children have shaped her understanding of anticipatory grief, and how joy has become an act of resistance against the unfairness of it all.

Nina and Tasha explore:

  • What it means to grieve the ideal while embracing what is
  • How advocacy and agency intertwine in a child’s care
  • The quiet grief of siblings walking their own path beside medical complexity
  • Why hope and heartbreak can live side by side
  • How spirituality and creativity help her family keep going
  • Why joy isn’t found, it’s chosen, over and over again

If you’ve ever lived between grief and gratitude, this conversation will remind you you can hold both.

Guest: Tasha Faruqui, DO

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17998093 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 4010 grief podcast, parenting through grief, anticipatory grief, parenting a child in hospice, medically complex child, rare disease, motherhood and loss, hope and surrender, grief and joy, finding joy in grief, caregiving and grief, tasha faruqui 4 89 full false Dr. Tasha Faruqui Nina Rodriguez Grieving While Parenting: Mindfulness, Mental Health, and Motherhood with Reshma Kearney Grieving While Parenting: Mindfulness, Mental Health, and Motherhood with Reshma Kearney How do you grieve while parenting? How do you tend to your own heartbreak and hold space for your children’s?

In this heartfelt conversation with Reshma Kearney, a Trauma-Informed Mindfulness and Healing Guide, shares her journey after losing her husband, Sean, to suicide. She opens up about navigating grief as a solo parent, communicating loss with honesty, and finding moments of presence through mindfulness in the first three years of grief.

***

This episode is also available in video here.

***

Reshma’s story touches on the complexities of mental health, cultural perspectives on grief, and the delicate balance of creating new traditions while honoring those we’ve lost. Through her experience, she reminds us that grief is not something to fix, but something to tend to, with gentleness, awareness, and grace.

Whether you’re parenting through loss, supporting someone who is, or learning to meet your own pain with compassion, this episode offers warmth, wisdom, and ways forward.

Key Takeaways:

  • Grief is non-linear, and there’s no “right way” to heal.
  • Mindfulness helps bring steadiness and presence to painful moments.
  • Children grieve differently; their process deserves honesty and patience.
  • Truthful communication about death fosters safety and healing.
  • Cultural background shapes how grief is expressed and supported.
  • Emotions like anger, guilt, or relief are natural parts of grief.
  • Creating new traditions can help families honor loved ones meaningfully.
  • Small moments of joy can coexist with deep sorrow.
  • Open conversations about mental health can save lives.
  • Parenting through grief calls for grace, flexibility, and self-compassion.

Guest: Reshma Kearney

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

If this conversation moved you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How do you grieve while parenting? How do you tend to your own heartbreak and hold space for your children’s?

In this heartfelt conversation with Reshma Kearney, a Trauma-Informed Mindfulness and Healing Guide, shares her journey after losing her husband, Sean, to suicide. She opens up about navigating grief as a solo parent, communicating loss with honesty, and finding moments of presence through mindfulness in the first three years of grief.

***

This episode is also available in video here.

***

Reshma’s story touches on the complexities of mental health, cultural perspectives on grief, and the delicate balance of creating new traditions while honoring those we’ve lost. Through her experience, she reminds us that grief is not something to fix, but something to tend to, with gentleness, awareness, and grace.

Whether you’re parenting through loss, supporting someone who is, or learning to meet your own pain with compassion, this episode offers warmth, wisdom, and ways forward.

Key Takeaways:

  • Grief is non-linear, and there’s no “right way” to heal.
  • Mindfulness helps bring steadiness and presence to painful moments.
  • Children grieve differently; their process deserves honesty and patience.
  • Truthful communication about death fosters safety and healing.
  • Cultural background shapes how grief is expressed and supported.
  • Emotions like anger, guilt, or relief are natural parts of grief.
  • Creating new traditions can help families honor loved ones meaningfully.
  • Small moments of joy can coexist with deep sorrow.
  • Open conversations about mental health can save lives.
  • Parenting through grief calls for grace, flexibility, and self-compassion.

Guest: Reshma Kearney

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

If this conversation moved you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17974642 Wed, 08 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3355 grief, parenting, mindfulness, suicide loss, mental health, trauma-informed, solo parenting, cultural grief, resilience, healing, grief podcast, grief and light, mindfulness for grief, grieving parents, mental health awareness, emotional regulation, child 4 88 full false Reshma Kearney Nina Rodriguez Honoring Your Grief: a mini meditation for grievers by Hannah Castillo Honoring Your Grief: a mini meditation for grievers by Hannah Castillo This week, I’m honored to share something special with you—a guided meditation created exclusively for Grief and Light listeners by Hannah Castillo, host of the Love Your Calm podcast.

Hannah has been a Mental Health Counselor for over 20 years and is passionate about making meditation approachable and supportive, especially in tender seasons of life. After her own health challenges led her to discover the power of daily meditation, she began sharing these practices with her clients, helping them find balance and calm. Her meditations are short, beginner-friendly, and designed to make the practice feel less intimidating.

When I invited Hannah to create a meditation specifically for grievers, she graciously said yes. Together, we decided to release it on both of our podcasts as a way of widening the circle of care.

Grief is a universal part of our human condition, and though your experience is uniquely yours, you don’t have to walk through it alone. Our hope is that this meditation offers you a moment of pause, comfort, and connection as you navigate your own path.

A gentle note: This practice is best listened to when you have a few uninterrupted minutes and can settle into a quiet, comfortable space. Take what feels supportive, leave what doesn’t, and return to this meditation whenever you need it.

To hear more of Hannah’s work, check out her Love Your Calm podcast below. 

And if this is your first time here, I invite you to explore past episodes of Grief and Light for more reflections and conversations about living with loss.


Guest: Hannah Castillo


Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez


Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> This week, I’m honored to share something special with you—a guided meditation created exclusively for Grief and Light listeners by Hannah Castillo, host of the Love Your Calm podcast.

Hannah has been a Mental Health Counselor for over 20 years and is passionate about making meditation approachable and supportive, especially in tender seasons of life. After her own health challenges led her to discover the power of daily meditation, she began sharing these practices with her clients, helping them find balance and calm. Her meditations are short, beginner-friendly, and designed to make the practice feel less intimidating.

When I invited Hannah to create a meditation specifically for grievers, she graciously said yes. Together, we decided to release it on both of our podcasts as a way of widening the circle of care.

Grief is a universal part of our human condition, and though your experience is uniquely yours, you don’t have to walk through it alone. Our hope is that this meditation offers you a moment of pause, comfort, and connection as you navigate your own path.

A gentle note: This practice is best listened to when you have a few uninterrupted minutes and can settle into a quiet, comfortable space. Take what feels supportive, leave what doesn’t, and return to this meditation whenever you need it.

To hear more of Hannah’s work, check out her Love Your Calm podcast below. 

And if this is your first time here, I invite you to explore past episodes of Grief and Light for more reflections and conversations about living with loss.


Guest: Hannah Castillo


Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez


Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17925165 Wed, 01 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400 466 grief meditation, guided meditation, grief support, mindfulness for grief, grieving process, grief and light podcast, love your calm podcast, meditation for healing, coping with loss, mindfulness practice, grief journey, mental health, calming meditation, 4 87 bonus false Hannah Castillo Nina Rodriguez Permission to Pause: 7 Types of Rest for Your Own "Pause Week" Permission to Pause: 7 Types of Rest for Your Own "Pause Week" What if you gave yourself permission to pause? 

This episode explores why rest is essential, not optional, covering the seven types of rest, the cost of burnout, and practical ways to create your own “pause week.” Consider this your reminder that what doesn’t bend, breaks; and that even small pauses can refill your cup.

Rather than a luxury, rest is a necessity for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being

Key Takeaways:

  • Pause is rest, and rest is essential for survival and life.
  • There are seven distinct types of rest as identified by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith—physical, mental, emotional, social, sensory, creative, and spiritual—and each plays a role in our well-being.
  • Burnout isn’t just exhaustion; it’s a warning sign that something has to change.
  • Burnout is not sustainable; intentional rest prevents breakdown.
  • Long-form content and slower rhythms can reawaken our capacity for focus and depth.
  • You don’t have to pause from everything; you can choose one area to pull back from in order to nourish another.
  • Rest strengthens resilience, helping us bend instead of break.
  • Scheduling rest in your calendar is an act of self-commitment, just as important as any external obligation.
  • A pause can look different for everyone: travel, nature, time with loved ones, or simply creating quiet space at home.

This solo episode with Nina Rodriguez is also your invitation to look at your own calendar and schedule in a "pause week", whatever that looks like for you.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Grief Support Resources for the Road:


About the Host:

Nina Rodriguez is a podcaster, grief-informed coach, speaker, writer, and the creator of GRIEF AND LIGHT, a podcast and support platform born from the sudden loss of her only sibling. She helps grievers navigate life after loss with curiosity, compassion, and agency, on and off the mic. Through her work, Nina invites others to honor the full spectrum of being human and build sustainable practices that embrace the both/and of life.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What if you gave yourself permission to pause? 

This episode explores why rest is essential, not optional, covering the seven types of rest, the cost of burnout, and practical ways to create your own “pause week.” Consider this your reminder that what doesn’t bend, breaks; and that even small pauses can refill your cup.

Rather than a luxury, rest is a necessity for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being

Key Takeaways:

  • Pause is rest, and rest is essential for survival and life.
  • There are seven distinct types of rest as identified by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith—physical, mental, emotional, social, sensory, creative, and spiritual—and each plays a role in our well-being.
  • Burnout isn’t just exhaustion; it’s a warning sign that something has to change.
  • Burnout is not sustainable; intentional rest prevents breakdown.
  • Long-form content and slower rhythms can reawaken our capacity for focus and depth.
  • You don’t have to pause from everything; you can choose one area to pull back from in order to nourish another.
  • Rest strengthens resilience, helping us bend instead of break.
  • Scheduling rest in your calendar is an act of self-commitment, just as important as any external obligation.
  • A pause can look different for everyone: travel, nature, time with loved ones, or simply creating quiet space at home.

This solo episode with Nina Rodriguez is also your invitation to look at your own calendar and schedule in a "pause week", whatever that looks like for you.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Grief Support Resources for the Road:


About the Host:

Nina Rodriguez is a podcaster, grief-informed coach, speaker, writer, and the creator of GRIEF AND LIGHT, a podcast and support platform born from the sudden loss of her only sibling. She helps grievers navigate life after loss with curiosity, compassion, and agency, on and off the mic. Through her work, Nina invites others to honor the full spectrum of being human and build sustainable practices that embrace the both/and of life.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17893775 Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:00:00 -0400 939 grief, grief support, grief podcast, grief and rest, pause week, permission to pause, intenational rest, seven types of rest, burnout recovery, nervous system reset, healing journey, self-care, mental health, resilience, slowing down, mindful living 4 86 full false Grief and Light: A Podcast About Life After Loss + Living in the 'and' Grief and Light: A Podcast About Life After Loss + Living in the 'and' You just lost your loved one. Now what?

Welcome to Grief and Light, a podcast about the honest truth of life after loss. Hosted by Nina Rodriguez, whose world was forever changed after the sudden death of her only sibling, this show explores the reality of grief, not as something to fix, but as a lifelong companion we learn to live with.

On Grief and Light, you’ll hear:

  • Honest reflections on the complexity of grief
  • Conversations about post-traumatic growth without bypassing pain
  • Stories that remind us grief and joy can coexist

Here, we live in the "and", where sorrow and joy, darkness and light, loss and love all belong. Nina calls this felicitreza: life through grief-colored lenses, where our stories become lighthouses for one another, steady glows in the dark that say, you are not alone, and we are in this together.

This is a place where your grief is seen, your story belongs, and light still breaks through.

About Nina:

Nina Rodriguez is a podcaster, grief-informed coach, speaker, writer, and the creator of GRIEF AND LIGHT, a podcast and support platform born from the sudden loss of her only sibling. She helps grievers navigate life after loss with curiosity, compassion, and agency, on and off the mic. Through her work, Nina invites others to honor the full spectrum of being human and build sustainable practices that embrace the both/and of life.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Subscribe to Grief and Light wherever you watch or listen to podcasts, and join us in creating a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one story and one conversation at a time.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> You just lost your loved one. Now what?

Welcome to Grief and Light, a podcast about the honest truth of life after loss. Hosted by Nina Rodriguez, whose world was forever changed after the sudden death of her only sibling, this show explores the reality of grief, not as something to fix, but as a lifelong companion we learn to live with.

On Grief and Light, you’ll hear:

  • Honest reflections on the complexity of grief
  • Conversations about post-traumatic growth without bypassing pain
  • Stories that remind us grief and joy can coexist

Here, we live in the "and", where sorrow and joy, darkness and light, loss and love all belong. Nina calls this felicitreza: life through grief-colored lenses, where our stories become lighthouses for one another, steady glows in the dark that say, you are not alone, and we are in this together.

This is a place where your grief is seen, your story belongs, and light still breaks through.

About Nina:

Nina Rodriguez is a podcaster, grief-informed coach, speaker, writer, and the creator of GRIEF AND LIGHT, a podcast and support platform born from the sudden loss of her only sibling. She helps grievers navigate life after loss with curiosity, compassion, and agency, on and off the mic. Through her work, Nina invites others to honor the full spectrum of being human and build sustainable practices that embrace the both/and of life.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Subscribe to Grief and Light wherever you watch or listen to podcasts, and join us in creating a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one story and one conversation at a time.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17877556 Sat, 20 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0400 101 grief support, sibling loss, life after loss, post-traumatic growth, grief stories, grief podcast, living with loss, grief and joy trailer false What if Death Wasn’t the End? Healing Through Mediumship with Karen Docherty What if Death Wasn’t the End? Healing Through Mediumship with Karen Docherty What if death wasn’t the end of the conversation?

In this episode of Grief and Light, Nina Rodriguez sits down with psychic medium and mentor Karen Docherty to explore how mediumship can become a powerful source of comfort, connection, and healing after loss. With warmth and clarity, Karen shares her own journey of discovering and embracing her calling, and how she now supports both the grieving and the departed through spirit communication.

Together, they unpack what mediumship really is (and isn’t), why discernment matters when seeking a practitioner, and how the messages that come through can transform grief into moments of peace, reassurance, and even joy. Karen also opens the door to the idea that intuitive and spiritual connection isn’t just for a select few — but something we all have the capacity to cultivate.

This heartfelt conversation invites you to look at grief, love, and connection in a new light — one where bonds endure, guidance continues, and healing stretches beyond the veil.

3 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

  1. How mediumship brings healing — and why it can ease the ache of grief by affirming our continued bonds with loved ones.
  2. What to know before seeking a medium — including how to spot integrity and avoid common misconceptions.
  3. Why intuition belongs to all of us — and simple ways to begin trusting your own inner connection.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mediumship as a bridge – How mediumship connects the living and the spirit world, offering not only evidence of an afterlife but also profound comfort for the grieving.
  • Karen’s path to her calling – From her earliest experiences with Spirit to becoming a trusted mentor, Karen shares how she came to embrace her gifts and the responsibility that comes with them.
  • The importance of discernment – Karen emphasizes the value of seeking out practitioners who lead with integrity, compassion, and clarity.
  • Healing through continued connection – Messages from loved ones can affirm that our bonds don’t end with death, helping us find peace, reassurance, and even moments of joy.
  • The role of spirit guides – Karen offers insight into how guides support us, reminding us that while they walk alongside us, we still hold the power of free will.
  • Clearing up misconceptions – Together, we explore common myths about mediumship and what genuine spirit communication really looks like.
  • Awakening our own intuition – Karen encourages listeners to explore their own connection to Spirit, showing how tuning in can support both personal growth and a deeper sense of guidance in everyday life.

Guest: Karen Docherty

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What if death wasn’t the end of the conversation?

In this episode of Grief and Light, Nina Rodriguez sits down with psychic medium and mentor Karen Docherty to explore how mediumship can become a powerful source of comfort, connection, and healing after loss. With warmth and clarity, Karen shares her own journey of discovering and embracing her calling, and how she now supports both the grieving and the departed through spirit communication.

Together, they unpack what mediumship really is (and isn’t), why discernment matters when seeking a practitioner, and how the messages that come through can transform grief into moments of peace, reassurance, and even joy. Karen also opens the door to the idea that intuitive and spiritual connection isn’t just for a select few — but something we all have the capacity to cultivate.

This heartfelt conversation invites you to look at grief, love, and connection in a new light — one where bonds endure, guidance continues, and healing stretches beyond the veil.

3 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode

  1. How mediumship brings healing — and why it can ease the ache of grief by affirming our continued bonds with loved ones.
  2. What to know before seeking a medium — including how to spot integrity and avoid common misconceptions.
  3. Why intuition belongs to all of us — and simple ways to begin trusting your own inner connection.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mediumship as a bridge – How mediumship connects the living and the spirit world, offering not only evidence of an afterlife but also profound comfort for the grieving.
  • Karen’s path to her calling – From her earliest experiences with Spirit to becoming a trusted mentor, Karen shares how she came to embrace her gifts and the responsibility that comes with them.
  • The importance of discernment – Karen emphasizes the value of seeking out practitioners who lead with integrity, compassion, and clarity.
  • Healing through continued connection – Messages from loved ones can affirm that our bonds don’t end with death, helping us find peace, reassurance, and even moments of joy.
  • The role of spirit guides – Karen offers insight into how guides support us, reminding us that while they walk alongside us, we still hold the power of free will.
  • Clearing up misconceptions – Together, we explore common myths about mediumship and what genuine spirit communication really looks like.
  • Awakening our own intuition – Karen encourages listeners to explore their own connection to Spirit, showing how tuning in can support both personal growth and a deeper sense of guidance in everyday life.

Guest: Karen Docherty

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17781702 Tue, 09 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2976 4 85 full false Karen Docherty Nina Rodriguez Award-Winning and Grieving: A Conversation with Women Who Podcast Magazine's founder Award-Winning and Grieving: A Conversation with Women Who Podcast Magazine's founder And just like that, we're an award-winning podcast!

In this special episode, I’m sharing a replay of my conversation with Kathy Barron, founder and editor-in-chief of Women Who Podcast Magazine. We talk about the journey behind Grief and Light, the power of being recognized as an award-winning podcast, and why grief isn’t a linear process—it’s deeply personal, unpredictable, and life-changing.

We dive into stories of life after loss, the sneaky ways grief shows up in everyday life, and how giving yourself permission to feel can actually deepen your connection to life and others. Whether you’re a griever, a podcaster, or simply curious about the human experience, this conversation offers insights, validation, and hope.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are no “steps” in grief—everyone experiences it differently.
  • Grief shows up unexpectedly, even in ordinary places like grocery stores.
  • Giving yourself permission to grieve is essential for healing and integration.
  • Recognition and community make a difference—even in the often-lonely world of podcasting.
  • Facing grief can deepen connection, empathy, and the richness of life itself.

If you’ve ever experienced loss, or want to understand grief more deeply, tune in, follow and subscribe to Grief and Light wherever you listen to podcasts, and connect with me on social media for more conversations, resources, and support.


Related Links:


Grief Support Resources for the Road:


Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez


Subscribe for more conversations that explore grief, healing, and what it means to be human.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> And just like that, we're an award-winning podcast!

In this special episode, I’m sharing a replay of my conversation with Kathy Barron, founder and editor-in-chief of Women Who Podcast Magazine. We talk about the journey behind Grief and Light, the power of being recognized as an award-winning podcast, and why grief isn’t a linear process—it’s deeply personal, unpredictable, and life-changing.

We dive into stories of life after loss, the sneaky ways grief shows up in everyday life, and how giving yourself permission to feel can actually deepen your connection to life and others. Whether you’re a griever, a podcaster, or simply curious about the human experience, this conversation offers insights, validation, and hope.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are no “steps” in grief—everyone experiences it differently.
  • Grief shows up unexpectedly, even in ordinary places like grocery stores.
  • Giving yourself permission to grieve is essential for healing and integration.
  • Recognition and community make a difference—even in the often-lonely world of podcasting.
  • Facing grief can deepen connection, empathy, and the richness of life itself.

If you’ve ever experienced loss, or want to understand grief more deeply, tune in, follow and subscribe to Grief and Light wherever you listen to podcasts, and connect with me on social media for more conversations, resources, and support.


Related Links:


Grief Support Resources for the Road:


Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez


Subscribe for more conversations that explore grief, healing, and what it means to be human.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17775667 Tue, 02 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0400 1323 Grief, Loss, Healing, Podcasting, Award-Winning Podcast, Women Who Podcast, Grief Awareness, Emotional Wellbeing, Adult Sibling Loss, Life After Loss, Coping with Grief, Mindfulness, Community Support, Personal Growth, Self-Compassion, Mental Health 4 84 full false Kathy Barron Nina Rodriguez Healing Through Journaling: Grief & Joy After Addiction Loss with Shawn Dinneen Healing Through Journaling: Grief & Joy After Addiction Loss with Shawn Dinneen If you’ve ever wondered how to keep living, and even loving, after losing someone you can’t imagine life without, this episode is for you. 

I sit down with Shawn Dinneen, creator of HeartStrings Journals, to hear her deeply personal story of grief, resilience, and rediscovering life and new love after the devastating loss of her fiancé to an overdose in 2022.

***Video version available here***

Shawn shares how journaling became a lifeline during her healing journey, inspiring her business and mission to support others navigating loss. We explore the messy middle of grief, how community, self-reflection, and courage help us carry sorrow while making room for hope and love again. This is an honest, tender conversation about loss, resilience, and the ways grief and joy can coexist.

Key Takeaways:

  • Healing after loss is personal, nonlinear, and requires compassion toward yourself.
  • Journaling and reflection can provide a powerful outlet for processing grief.
  • Stigma around addiction obscures the humanity of those affected.
  • Systemic barriers make seeking help for addiction challenging.
  • Unresolved pain and trauma frequently underlie addiction.
  • Community and shared experiences help break the isolation of loss.
  • Opening your heart to love again is possible, even after profound heartbreak.
  • Grief and joy can coexist, and healing doesn’t mean forgetting.

Guest: Shawn Dinneen

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Subscribe for more conversations that explore grief, healing, and what it means to be human.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> If you’ve ever wondered how to keep living, and even loving, after losing someone you can’t imagine life without, this episode is for you. 

I sit down with Shawn Dinneen, creator of HeartStrings Journals, to hear her deeply personal story of grief, resilience, and rediscovering life and new love after the devastating loss of her fiancé to an overdose in 2022.

***Video version available here***

Shawn shares how journaling became a lifeline during her healing journey, inspiring her business and mission to support others navigating loss. We explore the messy middle of grief, how community, self-reflection, and courage help us carry sorrow while making room for hope and love again. This is an honest, tender conversation about loss, resilience, and the ways grief and joy can coexist.

Key Takeaways:

  • Healing after loss is personal, nonlinear, and requires compassion toward yourself.
  • Journaling and reflection can provide a powerful outlet for processing grief.
  • Stigma around addiction obscures the humanity of those affected.
  • Systemic barriers make seeking help for addiction challenging.
  • Unresolved pain and trauma frequently underlie addiction.
  • Community and shared experiences help break the isolation of loss.
  • Opening your heart to love again is possible, even after profound heartbreak.
  • Grief and joy can coexist, and healing doesn’t mean forgetting.

Guest: Shawn Dinneen

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Subscribe for more conversations that explore grief, healing, and what it means to be human.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17737376 Wed, 27 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2706 grief, grief podcast, loss, addiction loss, healing, journaling, grief support, resilience, life after loss, grief and joy, HeartStrings Journals, coping with grief 4 83 full false Shawn Dinneen Nina Rodriguez Kids' Grief & Healing: Michelle Cove on Grief-Smart Culture, Intuition and Community Kids' Grief & Healing: Michelle Cove on Grief-Smart Culture, Intuition and Community How can we better support grieving kids and teens? 

In this episode of the Grief and Light podcast, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Michelle Cove, award-winning media maker, communications manager of Experience Camps and Grief Sucks,  in charge of making content across multiple platforms to build a more grief-smart culture. Together, they explore how teens navigate loss, the misconceptions surrounding teen grief, and the importance of creating safe spaces where young people can both process pain and simply be kids.

***Click here to watch on YouTube***

Michelle shares powerful insights from her work at Experience Camps, where children connect, play, and heal, emphasizing that grieving teens often seek companionship over solitude. They also discuss the dual process model of grief, the role of intuition in both grief and life decisions, and how storytelling through digital platforms, pop culture, and personal experience can foster understanding and community. 

This episode is a reminder that grief doesn’t have to be faced alone and that creating space for honest conversation is one of the most healing acts we can offer.

Key Takeaways:

  • Grief is universal, yet we often struggle to talk about it openly.
  • Experience Camps provide a safe, supportive space for grieving children to connect and heal.
  • Building a grief-smart culture involves learning how to communicate about loss effectively.
  • The dual model of grief allows fluid movement between processing intense emotions and returning to daily life.
  • Pop culture can be a powerful tool for starting conversations about grief with teens.
  • Teens often seek companionship over solitude when navigating loss.
  • Validating a grieving person’s feelings without trying to "fix" them is essential.
  • Grief can manifest differently across various life milestones.
  • Intuition plays a crucial role in guiding grief and life decisions.
  • Sharing stories of grief fosters connection, understanding, and community.

Guest: Michelle Cove

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Subscribe for more conversations that explore grief,

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How can we better support grieving kids and teens? 

In this episode of the Grief and Light podcast, Nina Rodriguez sits down with Michelle Cove, award-winning media maker, communications manager of Experience Camps and Grief Sucks,  in charge of making content across multiple platforms to build a more grief-smart culture. Together, they explore how teens navigate loss, the misconceptions surrounding teen grief, and the importance of creating safe spaces where young people can both process pain and simply be kids.

***Click here to watch on YouTube***

Michelle shares powerful insights from her work at Experience Camps, where children connect, play, and heal, emphasizing that grieving teens often seek companionship over solitude. They also discuss the dual process model of grief, the role of intuition in both grief and life decisions, and how storytelling through digital platforms, pop culture, and personal experience can foster understanding and community. 

This episode is a reminder that grief doesn’t have to be faced alone and that creating space for honest conversation is one of the most healing acts we can offer.

Key Takeaways:

  • Grief is universal, yet we often struggle to talk about it openly.
  • Experience Camps provide a safe, supportive space for grieving children to connect and heal.
  • Building a grief-smart culture involves learning how to communicate about loss effectively.
  • The dual model of grief allows fluid movement between processing intense emotions and returning to daily life.
  • Pop culture can be a powerful tool for starting conversations about grief with teens.
  • Teens often seek companionship over solitude when navigating loss.
  • Validating a grieving person’s feelings without trying to "fix" them is essential.
  • Grief can manifest differently across various life milestones.
  • Intuition plays a crucial role in guiding grief and life decisions.
  • Sharing stories of grief fosters connection, understanding, and community.

Guest: Michelle Cove

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Subscribe for more conversations that explore grief,

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17677352 Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2890 teen grief, grieving teens, childhood grief, grief support for teens, Experience Camps, Grief Sucks, grief-smart culture, dual process model of grief, teen mental health, storytelling and grief, coping with loss, intuition and grief, grief community 4 82 full false Michelle Cove Nina Rodriguez Filmmaker Michael Flores: Grief and Healing in 'Dogs on the Sendero' Filmmaker Michael Flores: Grief and Healing in 'Dogs on the Sendero' Whether you’re a griever, creative, or lover of independent film (and puppies!), this conversation is a moving exploration of how film can help us navigate trauma, honor legacy, and find our way back to light.

In this powerful episode of the Grief and Light podcast, acclaimed filmmaker and educator Michael Flores shares the deeply personal journey behind his award-winning feature film, Dogs on the Sendero. The film follows Sol, a grieving teacher who embarks on a transformative road trip with his dog, Rosie, after the devastating loss of his wife. Through their journey, the story explores grief, cultural identity, healing, and the quiet power of companionship.

***Click here to watch on YouTube***

Michael opens up about the emotional and creative process of making a film inspired by real-life experiences with gun violence in schools, the delicate balance of weaving humor and hope into stories of loss, and the role that pets, art, and cultural roots play in the healing process. He also discusses the challenges and serendipity of independent filmmaking during the pandemic, the importance of building a small but dedicated team, and how storytelling can foster empathy and human connection.

Free Grief Support Resources:

  1. Grief Tending Toolkit
  2. Access our online community

Key Takeaways:

  • Storytelling can help us navigate grief and find healing.
  • Gun violence in schools leaves long-lasting emotional ripples.
  • Independent filmmaking requires trust, resilience, and creativity.
  • Cultural identity can anchor and guide healing journeys.
  • Grief is universal and can be processed and expressed through art.
  • Pets can provide comfort, grounding, and purpose in the aftermath of loss.
  • Humor and grief can coexist, offering balance in emotional storytelling.
  • The creative process is often shaped by personal experiences and cultural identity.
  • Signs and serendipity often guide creative journeys and personal healing.
  • Empathy and emotional connection are at the heart of impactful storytelling.

Guest: Michael Flores

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Whether you’re a griever, creative, or lover of independent film (and puppies!), this conversation is a moving exploration of how film can help us navigate trauma, honor legacy, and find our way back to light.

In this powerful episode of the Grief and Light podcast, acclaimed filmmaker and educator Michael Flores shares the deeply personal journey behind his award-winning feature film, Dogs on the Sendero. The film follows Sol, a grieving teacher who embarks on a transformative road trip with his dog, Rosie, after the devastating loss of his wife. Through their journey, the story explores grief, cultural identity, healing, and the quiet power of companionship.

***Click here to watch on YouTube***

Michael opens up about the emotional and creative process of making a film inspired by real-life experiences with gun violence in schools, the delicate balance of weaving humor and hope into stories of loss, and the role that pets, art, and cultural roots play in the healing process. He also discusses the challenges and serendipity of independent filmmaking during the pandemic, the importance of building a small but dedicated team, and how storytelling can foster empathy and human connection.

Free Grief Support Resources:

  1. Grief Tending Toolkit
  2. Access our online community

Key Takeaways:

  • Storytelling can help us navigate grief and find healing.
  • Gun violence in schools leaves long-lasting emotional ripples.
  • Independent filmmaking requires trust, resilience, and creativity.
  • Cultural identity can anchor and guide healing journeys.
  • Grief is universal and can be processed and expressed through art.
  • Pets can provide comfort, grounding, and purpose in the aftermath of loss.
  • Humor and grief can coexist, offering balance in emotional storytelling.
  • The creative process is often shaped by personal experiences and cultural identity.
  • Signs and serendipity often guide creative journeys and personal healing.
  • Empathy and emotional connection are at the heart of impactful storytelling.

Guest: Michael Flores

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17596975 Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3676 grief, empathy, filmmaking, school shootings, healing, storytelling, pets, emotional journey, Dogs on the Sendero, Michael Flores, filmmaking, storytelling, grief, cultural identity, humor, representation, production challenges 4 81 full false Michael Flores Nina Rodriguez Healing the Father Wound and Sacred Lessons with Mike de la Rocha Healing the Father Wound and Sacred Lessons with Mike de la Rocha In this powerful episode, strategist, musician, and author Mike de la Rocha opens up about healing generational trauma, redefining masculinity, and reconnecting with his father through emotional truth-telling.

***Click here to watch on YouTube***

Drawing from his debut book Sacred Lessons: Teaching My Father How to Love, Mike explores how grief, silence, and inherited definitions of manhood shaped his early life—and how choosing vulnerability, mentorship, and collective healing became transformative. This intimate conversation unpacks the emotional cost of disconnection, the ancestral wisdom that guides us, and why healing the masculine lineage is essential for future generations. From the power of Ubuntu to the ongoing presence of loved ones beyond the veil, Mike reminds us that true healing is never solitary—it’s sacred, relational, and deeply human.

Whether you're navigating your own father wound, unpacking what it means to be a man in today’s world, or seeking connection with those you've lost, this episode offers insight, hope, and a path toward repair.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

  1. Grief Tending Toolkit
  2. Access our online community

Key Takeaways:

  • Healing yourself can create ripple effects across your family, including your father.
  • Sacred Lessons is both personal memoir and a collective call to interrupt cycles of silence and disconnection.
  • True healing is communal—it requires community, mentors, and intergenerational support.
  • Redefining masculinity starts with emotional honesty, not suppression.
  • Nature, ancestral practices, and rituals can anchor us during times of grief and transformation.
  • The philosophy of Ubuntu ("I am because we are") underscores our collective healing journey.
  • We remain connected to those we’ve lost through continued bonds and spiritual presence.
  • Societal norms around manhood are shifting—and there is real hope in that change.
  • Listening with openness is the first step toward breaking inherited patterns.
  • Healing the masculine is healing the world.

Guest: Mike de la Rocha

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

  • Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
  • Learn more:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this powerful episode, strategist, musician, and author Mike de la Rocha opens up about healing generational trauma, redefining masculinity, and reconnecting with his father through emotional truth-telling.

***Click here to watch on YouTube***

Drawing from his debut book Sacred Lessons: Teaching My Father How to Love, Mike explores how grief, silence, and inherited definitions of manhood shaped his early life—and how choosing vulnerability, mentorship, and collective healing became transformative. This intimate conversation unpacks the emotional cost of disconnection, the ancestral wisdom that guides us, and why healing the masculine lineage is essential for future generations. From the power of Ubuntu to the ongoing presence of loved ones beyond the veil, Mike reminds us that true healing is never solitary—it’s sacred, relational, and deeply human.

Whether you're navigating your own father wound, unpacking what it means to be a man in today’s world, or seeking connection with those you've lost, this episode offers insight, hope, and a path toward repair.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

  1. Grief Tending Toolkit
  2. Access our online community

Key Takeaways:

  • Healing yourself can create ripple effects across your family, including your father.
  • Sacred Lessons is both personal memoir and a collective call to interrupt cycles of silence and disconnection.
  • True healing is communal—it requires community, mentors, and intergenerational support.
  • Redefining masculinity starts with emotional honesty, not suppression.
  • Nature, ancestral practices, and rituals can anchor us during times of grief and transformation.
  • The philosophy of Ubuntu ("I am because we are") underscores our collective healing journey.
  • We remain connected to those we’ve lost through continued bonds and spiritual presence.
  • Societal norms around manhood are shifting—and there is real hope in that change.
  • Listening with openness is the first step toward breaking inherited patterns.
  • Healing the masculine is healing the world.

Guest: Mike de la Rocha

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

  • Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
  • Learn more:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17589541 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 2826 collective healing, generational trauma, collective care, emotional expression, masculinity, ancestral wisdom, vulnerability, ubuntu, men's grief, men's support, mike de la rocha 4 80 full false Mike de la Rocha Nina Rodriguez The Gift of Life: Organ Donation, Food Allergy Awareness, Child Loss & Legacy with Maryam De Groef The Gift of Life: Organ Donation, Food Allergy Awareness, Child Loss & Legacy with Maryam De Groef Maryam De Groef on child and sibling loss, organ donation, food allergy awareness, faith, and the many ways her daughter, Zeynah, lives on.

In this heartfelt and powerful episode of the Grief and Light podcast, host Nina Rodriguez speaks with grief educator, somatic practitioner, and mother Maryam De Groef about the unimaginable: the sudden loss of her 9-year-old daughter, Zeynah, to an anaphylactic reaction caused by a severe food allergy in 2023.

*** Watch on YouTube ***

Maryam shares the deeply personal journey of navigating profound grief, witnessing her surviving child process sibling loss, and the life-affirming decision her family made opting for organ donation—a decision that has saved and transformed the lives of others, with ripple effects that may span generations.

Together, they explore the urgent need for greater awareness around food allergies and anaphylaxis, especially in children, as well as the power of cultural sensitivity in medical care, and the often-overlooked grief of siblings left behind. 

Maryam also speaks to the role of faith, nervous system healing, and her work guiding others through trauma with somatic tools like breathwork, reiki, grounding, and emotional regulation practices.

This conversation is a tender and inspiring reminder that legacy isn’t just what we leave behind, it’s also what we give forward.

Key Takeaways:

  • Food allergies can be fatal—awareness, preparedness, and education save lives.
  • Grief affects the whole family, including siblings, who often go unseen in their pain.
  • Organ donation is an act of profound love, capable of impacting dozens of lives now and in the future.
  • Cultural and spiritual sensitivity in how loss is communicated matters deeply in trauma-informed care.
  • Embodied healing practices like breathwork, grounding, and nervous system regulation, can offer relief and resilience through overwhelming grief.
  • Legacy can ripple for generations, transforming pain into purpose and continued life.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

  1. Grief Tending Toolkit
  2. Access our online community

Mentioned in this episode:

Guest: Maryam de Groef

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Maryam De Groef on child and sibling loss, organ donation, food allergy awareness, faith, and the many ways her daughter, Zeynah, lives on.

In this heartfelt and powerful episode of the Grief and Light podcast, host Nina Rodriguez speaks with grief educator, somatic practitioner, and mother Maryam De Groef about the unimaginable: the sudden loss of her 9-year-old daughter, Zeynah, to an anaphylactic reaction caused by a severe food allergy in 2023.

*** Watch on YouTube ***

Maryam shares the deeply personal journey of navigating profound grief, witnessing her surviving child process sibling loss, and the life-affirming decision her family made opting for organ donation—a decision that has saved and transformed the lives of others, with ripple effects that may span generations.

Together, they explore the urgent need for greater awareness around food allergies and anaphylaxis, especially in children, as well as the power of cultural sensitivity in medical care, and the often-overlooked grief of siblings left behind. 

Maryam also speaks to the role of faith, nervous system healing, and her work guiding others through trauma with somatic tools like breathwork, reiki, grounding, and emotional regulation practices.

This conversation is a tender and inspiring reminder that legacy isn’t just what we leave behind, it’s also what we give forward.

Key Takeaways:

  • Food allergies can be fatal—awareness, preparedness, and education save lives.
  • Grief affects the whole family, including siblings, who often go unseen in their pain.
  • Organ donation is an act of profound love, capable of impacting dozens of lives now and in the future.
  • Cultural and spiritual sensitivity in how loss is communicated matters deeply in trauma-informed care.
  • Embodied healing practices like breathwork, grounding, and nervous system regulation, can offer relief and resilience through overwhelming grief.
  • Legacy can ripple for generations, transforming pain into purpose and continued life.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

  1. Grief Tending Toolkit
  2. Access our online community

Mentioned in this episode:

Guest: Maryam de Groef

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17529778 Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400 4174 child loss, organ donation story, anaphylaxis awareness, food allergy grief, grief podcast, pediatric loss, sibling grief, somatic healing grief, grief and light podcast, nervous system regulation, grief educator, faith 4 79 full false Maryam De Groef Nina Rodriguez Why Everyone Over 18 Needs a Will: End-of-Life Planning with Death Doula Marni Blank Why Everyone Over 18 Needs a Will: End-of-Life Planning with Death Doula Marni Blank What if preparing for death could actually help you live more fully?

In this powerful episode, Nina Rodriguez speaks with Marni Blank, certified end-of-life doula and founder of Begin With The End, about why planning for death is one of the most compassionate acts we can offer, both to ourselves and those we love.

***Click here to watch on YouTube***

This conversation weaves together the legal logistics of wills, advance directives, and digital assets with the emotional and spiritual tools needed to live with more intention and prepare with less fear. Marni also shares her deeply personal journey into this work, sparked by her mother’s car accident, a moment that exposed the overwhelming reality of end-of-life care when you're unprepared.

*** Plan Well Organizer: Download Here ***

Whether you're grieving, caregiving, or simply ready to get your affairs in order, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and a gentle push toward meaningful, compassionate action.

Topics We Explore:

  • How to start honest, heart-centered conversations about death
  • Why everyone over 18 needs a will and advance directive
  • How to protect and pass on your digital legacy
  • The biggest myths about grief, and what it actually looks like
  • What a death doula does and how they support families
  • How to shape a legacy rooted in values, not just valuables
  • Why compassion and curiosity are essential in grief support
  • How emotional presence and practical planning can coexist

Key Takeaways:

  • Preparing for death is a profound act of love
  • Grief is nonlinear and deeply individual
  • Legal and digital planning is essential at any age
  • Legacy lives on through stories, values, and human connection
  • You don’t have to navigate end-of-life or grief alone
  • Talking about death early can ease suffering later
  • It’s possible to be both prepared and present during loss

Whether you’re facing loss, supporting someone in grief, or simply want to live with more intention, this episode will give you language, tools, and hope.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

  1. Grief Tending Toolkit
  2. Access our online community

Guest: Marni Blank, Esq

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What if preparing for death could actually help you live more fully?

In this powerful episode, Nina Rodriguez speaks with Marni Blank, certified end-of-life doula and founder of Begin With The End, about why planning for death is one of the most compassionate acts we can offer, both to ourselves and those we love.

***Click here to watch on YouTube***

This conversation weaves together the legal logistics of wills, advance directives, and digital assets with the emotional and spiritual tools needed to live with more intention and prepare with less fear. Marni also shares her deeply personal journey into this work, sparked by her mother’s car accident, a moment that exposed the overwhelming reality of end-of-life care when you're unprepared.

*** Plan Well Organizer: Download Here ***

Whether you're grieving, caregiving, or simply ready to get your affairs in order, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and a gentle push toward meaningful, compassionate action.

Topics We Explore:

  • How to start honest, heart-centered conversations about death
  • Why everyone over 18 needs a will and advance directive
  • How to protect and pass on your digital legacy
  • The biggest myths about grief, and what it actually looks like
  • What a death doula does and how they support families
  • How to shape a legacy rooted in values, not just valuables
  • Why compassion and curiosity are essential in grief support
  • How emotional presence and practical planning can coexist

Key Takeaways:

  • Preparing for death is a profound act of love
  • Grief is nonlinear and deeply individual
  • Legal and digital planning is essential at any age
  • Legacy lives on through stories, values, and human connection
  • You don’t have to navigate end-of-life or grief alone
  • Talking about death early can ease suffering later
  • It’s possible to be both prepared and present during loss

Whether you’re facing loss, supporting someone in grief, or simply want to live with more intention, this episode will give you language, tools, and hope.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

  1. Grief Tending Toolkit
  2. Access our online community

Guest: Marni Blank, Esq

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17492446 Tue, 15 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2841 Death Doula, Grief Support, End Of Life Planning, Advance Directive, Digital Legacy, Grief Education, Legacy Work, Living With Intention, Grief And Light Podcast, Grief Podcast 4 78 full false Marni Blank, Esq. Nina Rodriguez Grief at Work: From Self-Advocacy to Compassionate Leadership with Bloomwell Partners Grief at Work: From Self-Advocacy to Compassionate Leadership with Bloomwell Partners Grief doesn’t pause when you arrive at work, so why do so many workplaces expect us to carry on as if nothing happened?

In this powerful episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez is joined by Dr. Mekel Harris and Janet Gwilliam-Wright, co-founders of Bloomwell Partners, a consulting firm transforming how organizations handle grief and loss in the workplace. 

***Watch on YouTube***

Drawing from their personal experiences of loss and their expertise in psychology, leadership, and organizational development, they dive into how employees can advocate for themselves while grieving, and how leaders can meet them with compassion instead of confusion.

From navigating the emotional toll of returning to work after a death, to shaping grief-informed policies and building a workplace culture rooted in empathy, this conversation offers tangible strategies for both individuals and organizations.

If you’ve ever felt like you had to perform while grieving, or if you're a leader unsure how to support a grieving team member, this episode is for you.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Key Takeaways

  • You have agency while grieving at work. Learning to speak up about your needs is part of healing, not a disruption.
  • Grief impacts performance, presence, and decision-making. It’s not just emotional, it’s physical and cognitive too.
  • Compassionate leadership is a skillset, not a personality trait. It can be learned, practiced, and integrated into team culture.
  • Grieving employees often feel robotic and disconnected. Making space for real emotion helps restore connection and trust.
  • Grief doesn’t follow a timeline. Long-term care and policy flexibility matter just as much as immediate support.
  • Peer support and grief ambassadors can help normalize conversations around loss and reduce isolation at work.
  • Organizations that support grief retain talent. Empathy and loyalty go hand-in-hand in the modern workplace.
  • Emotional intelligence is essential for today’s leaders. It’s no longer optional; it’s a core competency.

Referenced in this episode:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Grief doesn’t pause when you arrive at work, so why do so many workplaces expect us to carry on as if nothing happened?

In this powerful episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez is joined by Dr. Mekel Harris and Janet Gwilliam-Wright, co-founders of Bloomwell Partners, a consulting firm transforming how organizations handle grief and loss in the workplace. 

***Watch on YouTube***

Drawing from their personal experiences of loss and their expertise in psychology, leadership, and organizational development, they dive into how employees can advocate for themselves while grieving, and how leaders can meet them with compassion instead of confusion.

From navigating the emotional toll of returning to work after a death, to shaping grief-informed policies and building a workplace culture rooted in empathy, this conversation offers tangible strategies for both individuals and organizations.

If you’ve ever felt like you had to perform while grieving, or if you're a leader unsure how to support a grieving team member, this episode is for you.

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

Key Takeaways

  • You have agency while grieving at work. Learning to speak up about your needs is part of healing, not a disruption.
  • Grief impacts performance, presence, and decision-making. It’s not just emotional, it’s physical and cognitive too.
  • Compassionate leadership is a skillset, not a personality trait. It can be learned, practiced, and integrated into team culture.
  • Grieving employees often feel robotic and disconnected. Making space for real emotion helps restore connection and trust.
  • Grief doesn’t follow a timeline. Long-term care and policy flexibility matter just as much as immediate support.
  • Peer support and grief ambassadors can help normalize conversations around loss and reduce isolation at work.
  • Organizations that support grief retain talent. Empathy and loyalty go hand-in-hand in the modern workplace.
  • Emotional intelligence is essential for today’s leaders. It’s no longer optional; it’s a core competency.

Referenced in this episode:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17450718 Tue, 08 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3059 4 77 full false Dr. Mekel Harris Janet GWilliam-Wright Nina Rodriguez The Grief of Uncertainty in Unprecedented Times The Grief of Uncertainty in Unprecedented Times In this solo, audio-only episode, host Nina Rodriguez explores the unspoken grief many of us are carrying right now—the grief of uncertainty. 

From political turmoil and climate anxiety, to the dizzying pace of technological change, we’re living in times that feel increasingly unsteady.

This isn’t just stress; it’s a kind of ambient grief. It's the ache of losing the future we thought we were heading toward.

The episode reflects on:

  •  Why uncertainty feels so destabilizing to our nervous systems
  •  How ambient, ongoing grief impacts our sense of safety
  •  The importance of slowing down to recalibrate and feel
  •  What it means to find your anchor through ritual, rhythm, or aligned action
  •  How we can take meaningful action without burning out

Whether you’re doomscrolling, feeling disoriented, or just trying to catch your breath, this conversation offers gentle perspective and practical footholds for staying grounded in chaotic times.

If you’ve been quietly wondering, “Is it just me?” this episode is for you.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and subscribe to the Resting Grief Face Substack for the full written version.


Mentioned in this episode:


Takeaways:

  • Grief is not limited to the loss of loved ones.
  • Uncertainty can lead to feelings of grief for lost safety and predictability.
  • Slowing down is essential for processing grief.
  • Finding clarity requires intentional reflection and presence.
  • Grief can manifest as living loss, an ongoing and ambiguous experience.
  • Anchoring ourselves in uncertainty involves returning to the body and small rituals.
  • Community and connection can serve as powerful anchors during difficult times.
  • Purposeful action can transform anxiety into focus and motion.
  • Each person has a unique role to play in the process of transformation.
  • You do not have to be okay to be worthy of love.


Grief Support Resources for the Road:


Connect with Nina Rodrig

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this solo, audio-only episode, host Nina Rodriguez explores the unspoken grief many of us are carrying right now—the grief of uncertainty. 

From political turmoil and climate anxiety, to the dizzying pace of technological change, we’re living in times that feel increasingly unsteady.

This isn’t just stress; it’s a kind of ambient grief. It's the ache of losing the future we thought we were heading toward.

The episode reflects on:

  •  Why uncertainty feels so destabilizing to our nervous systems
  •  How ambient, ongoing grief impacts our sense of safety
  •  The importance of slowing down to recalibrate and feel
  •  What it means to find your anchor through ritual, rhythm, or aligned action
  •  How we can take meaningful action without burning out

Whether you’re doomscrolling, feeling disoriented, or just trying to catch your breath, this conversation offers gentle perspective and practical footholds for staying grounded in chaotic times.

If you’ve been quietly wondering, “Is it just me?” this episode is for you.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and subscribe to the Resting Grief Face Substack for the full written version.


Mentioned in this episode:


Takeaways:

  • Grief is not limited to the loss of loved ones.
  • Uncertainty can lead to feelings of grief for lost safety and predictability.
  • Slowing down is essential for processing grief.
  • Finding clarity requires intentional reflection and presence.
  • Grief can manifest as living loss, an ongoing and ambiguous experience.
  • Anchoring ourselves in uncertainty involves returning to the body and small rituals.
  • Community and connection can serve as powerful anchors during difficult times.
  • Purposeful action can transform anxiety into focus and motion.
  • Each person has a unique role to play in the process of transformation.
  • You do not have to be okay to be worthy of love.


Grief Support Resources for the Road:


Connect with Nina Rodrig

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17438802 Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:00:00 -0400 1151 grief, uncertainty, emotional health, personal loss, coping strategies, mental health, resilience, community support, self-care, navigating change 4 76 full true Jody Gelb on Navigating Life and Loss with a Medically Fragile Child Jody Gelb on Navigating Life and Loss with a Medically Fragile Child What does it mean to parent a child whose life is both a miracle and a medical emergency? 

In this tender and unflinching conversation, Broadway actor and author Jody Gelb shares the story of her daughter Lueza—her first child, born with disabilities resulting from a catastrophic birth injury—whose life was defined by both relentless caregiving and radiant joy.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Through the lens of her micro-memoir, SHE MAY BE LYING DOWN BUT SHE MAY BE VERY HAPPY, Jody speaks to the reality of raising a medically fragile child with cerebral palsy, where hope and anticipatory grief coexisted, and where love lived in the details, even amidst exhaustion and heartbreak. She takes us inside her NICU experience, evolution, reflects on self-judgment, ritual, and resilience, and explores what it means to live close to both life and death for years at a time.

This is an episode for caregivers, grievers, artists, and anyone who knows what it’s like to live inside a contradiction, and still find meaning there.

***

Free Download: GRIEF TENDING TOOLKIT 

ACCESS OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY

***

Takeaways:

  • Micro memoirs offer a powerful, distilled way to tell grief stories with clarity and emotional punch.
  • Parenting a medically complex child requires living in constant contradiction: hope and heartbreak, joy and sorrow.
  • The NICU experience leaves a lasting emotional imprint and is often under-discussed.
  • Anticipatory grief changes how we relate to time, memory, and presence.
  • Grief rituals and proximity to death can empower us to live more intentionally.
  • Siblings of medically fragile children have unique emotional experiences that deserve recognition.
  • Even in the most difficult circumstances, love and laughter remain possible, and necessary.

Connect with Jody Gelb:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What does it mean to parent a child whose life is both a miracle and a medical emergency? 

In this tender and unflinching conversation, Broadway actor and author Jody Gelb shares the story of her daughter Lueza—her first child, born with disabilities resulting from a catastrophic birth injury—whose life was defined by both relentless caregiving and radiant joy.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Through the lens of her micro-memoir, SHE MAY BE LYING DOWN BUT SHE MAY BE VERY HAPPY, Jody speaks to the reality of raising a medically fragile child with cerebral palsy, where hope and anticipatory grief coexisted, and where love lived in the details, even amidst exhaustion and heartbreak. She takes us inside her NICU experience, evolution, reflects on self-judgment, ritual, and resilience, and explores what it means to live close to both life and death for years at a time.

This is an episode for caregivers, grievers, artists, and anyone who knows what it’s like to live inside a contradiction, and still find meaning there.

***

Free Download: GRIEF TENDING TOOLKIT 

ACCESS OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY

***

Takeaways:

  • Micro memoirs offer a powerful, distilled way to tell grief stories with clarity and emotional punch.
  • Parenting a medically complex child requires living in constant contradiction: hope and heartbreak, joy and sorrow.
  • The NICU experience leaves a lasting emotional imprint and is often under-discussed.
  • Anticipatory grief changes how we relate to time, memory, and presence.
  • Grief rituals and proximity to death can empower us to live more intentionally.
  • Siblings of medically fragile children have unique emotional experiences that deserve recognition.
  • Even in the most difficult circumstances, love and laughter remain possible, and necessary.

Connect with Jody Gelb:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17373969 Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3388 parenting a disabled child, grief and caregiving, micro memoir, NICU stories, anticipatory grief, death and dying, thanatology, parenting through loss, cerebral palsy parenting, family dynamics in grief, caregiver stories, Jody Gelb, loss of a child 4 75 full true Jody Gelb Nina Rodriguez Grieving One Child, Racing to Save Another: The Docobo Family’s Mission of Hope Grieving One Child, Racing to Save Another: The Docobo Family’s Mission of Hope In this moving episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with Bryan and Danielle Docobo to explore their journey through profound loss, love, and advocacy following the death of their son Ethan, who passed away from the rare genetic disorder Coats Plus Syndrome. As parents navigating complex grief while raising their surviving son Liam, who lives with the same diagnosis, Bryan and Danielle speak candidly about the emotional, spiritual, and logistical realities of their path, as they work against time to save him.

***

How you can help:

***

Danielle, a dedicated pediatric nurse, and Bryan, a real estate attorney and podcast host, share how they turned heartbreak into hope through the creation of the Coats Plus Foundation. Their mission includes fundraising, research, awareness, and building a supportive community for families navigating rare diseases.

This heartfelt conversation covers the duality of grief and joy, the spiritual lessons they’ve learned, the importance of vulnerability, and how taking action has become a healing force in their lives. Whether you’re a grieving parent, a rare disease advocate, or simply someone walking through loss, their story reminds us that love never ends, and neither does the impact of a life, no matter how short.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is lifelong and evolves with time. It is not something to “get over,” but something we live with.
  • Naming the problem (such as a diagnosis) allows families to shift into problem-solving and advocacy.
  • Community is everything. Whether through foundations, peer support, or safe spaces for grief.
  • Rare disease diagnoses are devastating, but can serve as a catalyst for collective action.
  • Guilt is common when balancing the needs of multiple children in medical crises.
  • Hope lives in action—advocacy, fundraising, and awareness-building create purpose from pain.
  • Spirituality and brotherhood provide grounding during uncertain times.
  • Men also need safe spaces to express grief and vulnerability.
  • Special needs children contribute immense value and joy to their families.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this moving episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with Bryan and Danielle Docobo to explore their journey through profound loss, love, and advocacy following the death of their son Ethan, who passed away from the rare genetic disorder Coats Plus Syndrome. As parents navigating complex grief while raising their surviving son Liam, who lives with the same diagnosis, Bryan and Danielle speak candidly about the emotional, spiritual, and logistical realities of their path, as they work against time to save him.

***

How you can help:

***

Danielle, a dedicated pediatric nurse, and Bryan, a real estate attorney and podcast host, share how they turned heartbreak into hope through the creation of the Coats Plus Foundation. Their mission includes fundraising, research, awareness, and building a supportive community for families navigating rare diseases.

This heartfelt conversation covers the duality of grief and joy, the spiritual lessons they’ve learned, the importance of vulnerability, and how taking action has become a healing force in their lives. Whether you’re a grieving parent, a rare disease advocate, or simply someone walking through loss, their story reminds us that love never ends, and neither does the impact of a life, no matter how short.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is lifelong and evolves with time. It is not something to “get over,” but something we live with.
  • Naming the problem (such as a diagnosis) allows families to shift into problem-solving and advocacy.
  • Community is everything. Whether through foundations, peer support, or safe spaces for grief.
  • Rare disease diagnoses are devastating, but can serve as a catalyst for collective action.
  • Guilt is common when balancing the needs of multiple children in medical crises.
  • Hope lives in action—advocacy, fundraising, and awareness-building create purpose from pain.
  • Spirituality and brotherhood provide grounding during uncertain times.
  • Men also need safe spaces to express grief and vulnerability.
  • Special needs children contribute immense value and joy to their families.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17277491 Wed, 04 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400 4225 grief, hope, Coats Plus Syndrome, rare diseases, parenting through loss, pediatric nurse, community support, genetic disorders, healing after loss, grief podcast, Ethan’s story, grief advocacy, Coats Plus Foundation, special needs parenting, family healin 4 74 full false Bryan & Danielle Docobo Nina Rodriguez Soul Pets and Sacred Goodbyes: Grant Hazell on the Grief of Pet Loss Soul Pets and Sacred Goodbyes: Grant Hazell on the Grief of Pet Loss Pet loss is real grief — and it deserves real support.

In this heartfelt episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez is joined by pet loss grief specialist, Grant Hazell, for an intimate conversation about the grief of losing a beloved animal companion. Together, they explore the deep bonds between humans and pets — often referred to as “soul pets” — and why losing them can be just as devastating as the loss of a human loved one.

You'll hear about:

  • The unique types of human–pet relationships and what makes them so significant
  • How society often invalidates or overlooks pet loss grief
  • The role pets play in the lives of seniors, children, and people with disabilities
  • Navigating anticipatory grief and the complexities of euthanasia decisions
  • How to continue the bond with your pet through rituals, memories, and honoring their legacy

Click Here to watch on YouTube

Whether you're grieving the loss of a dog, cat, service animal or any cherished companion animal, this episode offers compassionate insight and validation.

🐾 You’re not alone — your grief is real, and your soul pet mattered.

Free Download: GRIEF TENDING TOOLKIT 

ACCESS OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY

Takeaways:

  • Pet loss is a significant form of grief that is often overlooked.
  • The bond between humans and pets can be profound and life-altering.
  • Disenfranchised grief refers to grief that is not socially acknowledged.
  • Understanding the human-pet bond can help validate feelings of loss.
  • Grief is a personal journey that cannot be fixed or rushed.
  • The grief of losing a pet can be as severe as losing a human loved one.
  • Older individuals may experience deeper grief due to pet loss as companions.
  • The categories of human-pet bonds help explain the depth of grief.
  • Pets often fulfill emotional needs that may not be met elsewhere. 
  • The bond between humans and pets can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
  • Anticipatory grief is a valid and often overlooked aspect of pet loss.
  • Pet loss encompasses more than just death; it includes separation and surrender.
  • Euthanasia decisions can lead to significant guilt and remorse for pet owners.
  • Grief rituals can help maintain a connection with deceased pets.
  • Love for pets continues beyond their physical presence.
  • It's important to approach pet loss with compassion and understanding.
  • People who surrender pets often face stigma and judgment from others.

Connect with Grant Hazell:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Pet loss is real grief — and it deserves real support.

In this heartfelt episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez is joined by pet loss grief specialist, Grant Hazell, for an intimate conversation about the grief of losing a beloved animal companion. Together, they explore the deep bonds between humans and pets — often referred to as “soul pets” — and why losing them can be just as devastating as the loss of a human loved one.

You'll hear about:

  • The unique types of human–pet relationships and what makes them so significant
  • How society often invalidates or overlooks pet loss grief
  • The role pets play in the lives of seniors, children, and people with disabilities
  • Navigating anticipatory grief and the complexities of euthanasia decisions
  • How to continue the bond with your pet through rituals, memories, and honoring their legacy

Click Here to watch on YouTube

Whether you're grieving the loss of a dog, cat, service animal or any cherished companion animal, this episode offers compassionate insight and validation.

🐾 You’re not alone — your grief is real, and your soul pet mattered.

Free Download: GRIEF TENDING TOOLKIT 

ACCESS OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY

Takeaways:

  • Pet loss is a significant form of grief that is often overlooked.
  • The bond between humans and pets can be profound and life-altering.
  • Disenfranchised grief refers to grief that is not socially acknowledged.
  • Understanding the human-pet bond can help validate feelings of loss.
  • Grief is a personal journey that cannot be fixed or rushed.
  • The grief of losing a pet can be as severe as losing a human loved one.
  • Older individuals may experience deeper grief due to pet loss as companions.
  • The categories of human-pet bonds help explain the depth of grief.
  • Pets often fulfill emotional needs that may not be met elsewhere. 
  • The bond between humans and pets can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
  • Anticipatory grief is a valid and often overlooked aspect of pet loss.
  • Pet loss encompasses more than just death; it includes separation and surrender.
  • Euthanasia decisions can lead to significant guilt and remorse for pet owners.
  • Grief rituals can help maintain a connection with deceased pets.
  • Love for pets continues beyond their physical presence.
  • It's important to approach pet loss with compassion and understanding.
  • People who surrender pets often face stigma and judgment from others.

Connect with Grant Hazell:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17192383 Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3410 pet loss, grief, grief podcast, pet loss grief, losing a pet, loss of a pet, human-pet bond, service animals, anticipatory grief, pet grief support, unconditional love, pet grief specialist 4 73 full true Grant Hazell Nina Rodriguez Navigating Motherhood after Loss with Liz Quinn Navigating Motherhood after Loss with Liz Quinn In this deeply moving episode Nina is joined by Liz Quinn — grief advocate, and host of the Healing Hearts Podcast. Liz opens up about her personal journey through layered loss, including the death of her daughter Alivia, and both of her parents. With tenderness and clarity, she shares what it means to grieve as a mother, how guilt and love can coexist, and how the relationship with a child in spirit continues to evolve.

// Click here to watch on YouTube //

The conversation also explores the experience of pregnancy after loss, the secondary grief felt by surviving children, and the often unseen labor of tending to grief while parenting. Liz also shares her journey through anticipatory and ambiguous grief as she lost her mother to Alzheimer’s and dementia, followed by the death of her father to esophageal cancer.

Nina and Liz offer insights into how one's healing journey can evolve into a purpose-driven mission, and emphasize the importance of storytelling and community in the grief process. This episode is a poignant reminder that grief is not something to fix — it’s something to honor, carry, and live with love.


Free Download: GRIEF TENDING TOOLKIT 


// ACCESS OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY //


Takeaways:

  • You don't necessarily feel like a mother when you don't have a child physically.
  • The love for a child begins the moment you know they are yours.
  • Grief is a journey that shapes who you are.
  • Honoring lost children is a vital part of healing.
  • It's okay to not want to hold a baby after loss.
  • You either know or you just do it when it comes to having more children.
  • Building a relationship with a child in spirit takes time.
  • There is no right or wrong way to navigate grief.
  • Sometimes, mothers know best when it comes to healing traditions.
  • Support groups can be both helpful and challenging.
  • Siblings can experience grief for a sibling they never met.
  • The loss of a child reshapes family dynamics and identities.
  • Transforming grief into purpose can lead to personal growth.
  • Shared stories can initiate healing for both the storyteller and the listener.
  • Grief is a lifelong journey that evolves over time.
  • Life after loss can still be beautiful despite its challenges.


Connect with Liz Quinn:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this deeply moving episode Nina is joined by Liz Quinn — grief advocate, and host of the Healing Hearts Podcast. Liz opens up about her personal journey through layered loss, including the death of her daughter Alivia, and both of her parents. With tenderness and clarity, she shares what it means to grieve as a mother, how guilt and love can coexist, and how the relationship with a child in spirit continues to evolve.

// Click here to watch on YouTube //

The conversation also explores the experience of pregnancy after loss, the secondary grief felt by surviving children, and the often unseen labor of tending to grief while parenting. Liz also shares her journey through anticipatory and ambiguous grief as she lost her mother to Alzheimer’s and dementia, followed by the death of her father to esophageal cancer.

Nina and Liz offer insights into how one's healing journey can evolve into a purpose-driven mission, and emphasize the importance of storytelling and community in the grief process. This episode is a poignant reminder that grief is not something to fix — it’s something to honor, carry, and live with love.


Free Download: GRIEF TENDING TOOLKIT 


// ACCESS OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY //


Takeaways:

  • You don't necessarily feel like a mother when you don't have a child physically.
  • The love for a child begins the moment you know they are yours.
  • Grief is a journey that shapes who you are.
  • Honoring lost children is a vital part of healing.
  • It's okay to not want to hold a baby after loss.
  • You either know or you just do it when it comes to having more children.
  • Building a relationship with a child in spirit takes time.
  • There is no right or wrong way to navigate grief.
  • Sometimes, mothers know best when it comes to healing traditions.
  • Support groups can be both helpful and challenging.
  • Siblings can experience grief for a sibling they never met.
  • The loss of a child reshapes family dynamics and identities.
  • Transforming grief into purpose can lead to personal growth.
  • Shared stories can initiate healing for both the storyteller and the listener.
  • Grief is a lifelong journey that evolves over time.
  • Life after loss can still be beautiful despite its challenges.


Connect with Liz Quinn:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17046020 Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3046 grief, bereaved mother, infant loss, neonatal loss, loss of a baby, loss of a parent, healing hearts podcast, grief podcast, resilience, life after loss, hope, sibling grief, motherhood, pregnancy after loss 4 72 full false Liz Quinn Nina Rodriguez Grief vs. Grieving: Why the Difference Matters Grief vs. Grieving: Why the Difference Matters We often use the words grief and grieving interchangeably—but did you know they’re not quite the same?

In this thoughtful solo episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez invites listeners into a powerful reframe: grief is the natural response to loss, but grieving is how we live with and in relation to our grief. With tenderness and clarity, Nina explores how understanding the distinction between these two terms can transform our experience with loss—softening unrealistic expectations, reducing pressure to "move on," and opening up a path toward self-compassion and emotional expansion.


*** FREE DOWNLOAD: GRIEF TENDING TOOLKIT  ***


Drawing from her personal experiences and professional grief support work, Nina illustrates how grief is a universal, often involuntary response—raw, physical, and immediate—while grieving is a dynamic and deeply personal relationship with what’s missing. She emphasizes that grieving is not something to get over but something we tend to, like a garden or a living relationship, over time.


*** CLICK HERE TO WATCH ON YOUTUBE ***


This episode is a balm for anyone who’s ever asked themselves, “Why am I still like this?” and offers a more empowering, spacious question instead: “What kind of care do I need today?”


// ACCESS OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY \\


Key Takeaways:

  • Grief is the event—the natural response to loss and life-altering change.
  • Grieving is the process—our evolving relationship with that loss over time.
  • There is no timeline for grieving and no single "right" way to do it.
  • Cultural, familial, and societal influences shape how we perceive grief.
  • Grieving is a practice in patience and self-compassion, not perfection.
  • Honoring your own process means also allowing others to move at their pace.
  • The metaphor of the grief jar illustrates how our capacity expands—not that the grief shrinks.
  • Tending to grief honestly is what brings meaning, integration, and even unexpected joy.


Mentioned in this episode: Grief vs. Grieving post


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> We often use the words grief and grieving interchangeably—but did you know they’re not quite the same?

In this thoughtful solo episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez invites listeners into a powerful reframe: grief is the natural response to loss, but grieving is how we live with and in relation to our grief. With tenderness and clarity, Nina explores how understanding the distinction between these two terms can transform our experience with loss—softening unrealistic expectations, reducing pressure to "move on," and opening up a path toward self-compassion and emotional expansion.


*** FREE DOWNLOAD: GRIEF TENDING TOOLKIT  ***


Drawing from her personal experiences and professional grief support work, Nina illustrates how grief is a universal, often involuntary response—raw, physical, and immediate—while grieving is a dynamic and deeply personal relationship with what’s missing. She emphasizes that grieving is not something to get over but something we tend to, like a garden or a living relationship, over time.


*** CLICK HERE TO WATCH ON YOUTUBE ***


This episode is a balm for anyone who’s ever asked themselves, “Why am I still like this?” and offers a more empowering, spacious question instead: “What kind of care do I need today?”


// ACCESS OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY \\


Key Takeaways:

  • Grief is the event—the natural response to loss and life-altering change.
  • Grieving is the process—our evolving relationship with that loss over time.
  • There is no timeline for grieving and no single "right" way to do it.
  • Cultural, familial, and societal influences shape how we perceive grief.
  • Grieving is a practice in patience and self-compassion, not perfection.
  • Honoring your own process means also allowing others to move at their pace.
  • The metaphor of the grief jar illustrates how our capacity expands—not that the grief shrinks.
  • Tending to grief honestly is what brings meaning, integration, and even unexpected joy.


Mentioned in this episode: Grief vs. Grieving post


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-17024556 Tue, 22 Apr 2025 20:00:00 -0400 912 grief, grieving, loss, self-care, emotional healing, support, compassion, perspective, relationship with loss, community, grief podcast, grief coach, grief community, grief support, grievers, loss of a loved one, pet loss 4 71 full false Brothers, Grief, and Identity: Nico Slate on navigating sibling loss, love, and race dynamics Brothers, Grief, and Identity: Nico Slate on navigating sibling loss, love, and race dynamics How does grief intersect with race and identity when growing up in a multi-ethnic family?

In this powerful episode, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with historian and author Nico Slate to explore the layered experience of sibling loss through the lens of race, identity, and love.

Nico shares the deeply personal story behind his memoir Brothers: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Race, which honors the life and legacy of his late brother, Peter. Raised in a multi-ethnic family, Nico reflects on Peter’s experiences as a Black man in America, the traumatic events that shaped their lives, and how writing became a path toward healing and understanding. Together, they discuss the evolving nature of grief, the power of storytelling, and how we continue our relationships with those who have passed.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

This episode offers an intimate look at the grief of losing a sibling, the emotional complexities of family dynamics, and the profound impact of racial identity on mourning and memory. Whether you're navigating your own loss, reflecting on race and family, or seeking a heartfelt conversation about healing, this episode offers insight, vulnerability, and hope.

Key Takeaways:

  • Grief often feels abstract—until it becomes personal.
  • Sibling loss can profoundly shape one’s identity and worldview.
  • Writing a memoir can be a powerful tool for healing and reflection.
  • Love and grief transcend racial and cultural boundaries.
  • Navigating grief within a multi-racial family brings unique challenges and insights.
  • Processing loss through storytelling helps preserve memories and deepen understanding.
  • You can't separate the beauty and pain of life—they often coexist.
  • Grief evolves over time and may include struggles with identity and belonging.
  • Relationships with the deceased don’t end—they shift and continue.
  • Historical figures and family legacy can serve as anchors of hope in grief.
  • Self-compassion is essential on the grieving journey.
  • Complex or unresolved relationships may carry their own form of grief.
  • Being kind to yourself is not optional—it's a necessity.
  • Honoring grief publicly can invite connection and community.
  • Racial grief is real and deeply entwined with personal and societal loss.

***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Nico Slate:

Conn

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How does grief intersect with race and identity when growing up in a multi-ethnic family?

In this powerful episode, host Nina Rodriguez sits down with historian and author Nico Slate to explore the layered experience of sibling loss through the lens of race, identity, and love.

Nico shares the deeply personal story behind his memoir Brothers: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Race, which honors the life and legacy of his late brother, Peter. Raised in a multi-ethnic family, Nico reflects on Peter’s experiences as a Black man in America, the traumatic events that shaped their lives, and how writing became a path toward healing and understanding. Together, they discuss the evolving nature of grief, the power of storytelling, and how we continue our relationships with those who have passed.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

This episode offers an intimate look at the grief of losing a sibling, the emotional complexities of family dynamics, and the profound impact of racial identity on mourning and memory. Whether you're navigating your own loss, reflecting on race and family, or seeking a heartfelt conversation about healing, this episode offers insight, vulnerability, and hope.

Key Takeaways:

  • Grief often feels abstract—until it becomes personal.
  • Sibling loss can profoundly shape one’s identity and worldview.
  • Writing a memoir can be a powerful tool for healing and reflection.
  • Love and grief transcend racial and cultural boundaries.
  • Navigating grief within a multi-racial family brings unique challenges and insights.
  • Processing loss through storytelling helps preserve memories and deepen understanding.
  • You can't separate the beauty and pain of life—they often coexist.
  • Grief evolves over time and may include struggles with identity and belonging.
  • Relationships with the deceased don’t end—they shift and continue.
  • Historical figures and family legacy can serve as anchors of hope in grief.
  • Self-compassion is essential on the grieving journey.
  • Complex or unresolved relationships may carry their own form of grief.
  • Being kind to yourself is not optional—it's a necessity.
  • Honoring grief publicly can invite connection and community.
  • Racial grief is real and deeply entwined with personal and societal loss.

***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Nico Slate:

Conn

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16964856 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3292 grief, sibling loss, disability, loss of vision, race relations, multi-ethnic family, multi-cultural, grief podcast, loss of a brother, grief author, memoir, historian, continuing bonds 4 70 full false Nico Slate Nina Rodriguez Befriending the Unknown: Paula Sager on losing her father, Authentic Movement, and writing The Watch Befriending the Unknown: Paula Sager on losing her father, Authentic Movement, and writing The Watch What if grief holds its own wisdom, guiding us towards healing and understanding?

In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez speaks with Paula Sager, writer and teacher of embodied contemplative practices, about the wisdom found in grief and the power of presence in times of loss. 

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Paula reflects on her father's illness, passing, and the ongoing connection that unfolded afterward. They discuss how mindfulness, movement, and authentic movement practices can support grief by fostering inner listening and honoring the body’s response to loss.

This conversation explores themes of love, letting go, and the mystical moments that can emerge during grief. 

Paula shares insights from her book, The Watch: Time to Witness the Beauty of It All, and invites listeners to embrace unanswered questions with curiosity and compassion. 

Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on finding beauty, connection, and meaning in the midst of sorrow.

***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Takeaways:

  • Grief can guide us toward wisdom and understanding.
  • Being present in grief is essential for healing.
  • Personal loss often leads to profound questions about life and time.
  • Movement can help reconnect the mind and body during grief.
  • The Discipline of Authentic Movement encourages inner listening and self-awareness.
  • Grief is a physical experience that can manifest in the body.
  • Creating space for emotions is crucial in the grieving process.
  • Navigating grief requires patience and curiosity about our inner world. 
  • Grief has its own wisdom that guides us.
  • Listening to our bodies can help navigate grief.
  • Practices of mindfulness are essential for life and grief.
  • The process of writing can be a form of healing.
  • Letting go is a complex and personal journey.
  • Presence is the most important gift we can offer.
  • Unanswered questions are a part of the grieving process.
  • Mystical experiences can provide comfort during loss.
  • Love remains a powerful force in the face of grief.
  • Paying attention to small moments can lead to healing.

Connect with Paula Sager:

Connect with Nina

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What if grief holds its own wisdom, guiding us towards healing and understanding?

In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez speaks with Paula Sager, writer and teacher of embodied contemplative practices, about the wisdom found in grief and the power of presence in times of loss. 

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Paula reflects on her father's illness, passing, and the ongoing connection that unfolded afterward. They discuss how mindfulness, movement, and authentic movement practices can support grief by fostering inner listening and honoring the body’s response to loss.

This conversation explores themes of love, letting go, and the mystical moments that can emerge during grief. 

Paula shares insights from her book, The Watch: Time to Witness the Beauty of It All, and invites listeners to embrace unanswered questions with curiosity and compassion. 

Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on finding beauty, connection, and meaning in the midst of sorrow.

***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Takeaways:

  • Grief can guide us toward wisdom and understanding.
  • Being present in grief is essential for healing.
  • Personal loss often leads to profound questions about life and time.
  • Movement can help reconnect the mind and body during grief.
  • The Discipline of Authentic Movement encourages inner listening and self-awareness.
  • Grief is a physical experience that can manifest in the body.
  • Creating space for emotions is crucial in the grieving process.
  • Navigating grief requires patience and curiosity about our inner world. 
  • Grief has its own wisdom that guides us.
  • Listening to our bodies can help navigate grief.
  • Practices of mindfulness are essential for life and grief.
  • The process of writing can be a form of healing.
  • Letting go is a complex and personal journey.
  • Presence is the most important gift we can offer.
  • Unanswered questions are a part of the grieving process.
  • Mystical experiences can provide comfort during loss.
  • Love remains a powerful force in the face of grief.
  • Paying attention to small moments can lead to healing.

Connect with Paula Sager:

Connect with Nina

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16844222 Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3330 grief, loss, mindfulness, healing, inner wisdom, writing process, loss of a parent, loss of a father, grief and loss, grief podcast, grief talk, hope, contemplative practices, grief author 4 69 full false Paula Sager Nina Rodriguez Uncensoring Grief, Centering Aliveness, and Navigating Loss with Lisa Keefauver, MSW Uncensoring Grief, Centering Aliveness, and Navigating Loss with Lisa Keefauver, MSW How can we center aliveness in a world full of loss?

In this heartfelt conversation, host Nina Rodriguez and grief activist, TEDx speaker, podcast host, and author, Lisa Keefauver, MSW dive into the complexities of grief, offering insights on grief literacy and the personal experiences that shape how we process loss. They explore the emotional impact of grief, highlighting the gap between learning about grief and living through it.

The discussion unpacks the nuances of emotions, feelings, and moods, shedding light on how understanding these distinctions can support healing. Lisa shares powerful tools from narrative therapy, emphasizing the importance of reframing our grief stories. Together, they explore how self-compassion, mindfulness, and community can help us navigate grief — while still finding moments of joy and connection.

The episode offers practical strategies for cultivating aliveness, delivering delight to others, and embracing our shared humanity in the face of loss.

*** Click here to watch on YouTube ***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a universal experience that affects everyone uniquely.
  • Grief literacy is essential to reduce unnecessary suffering during grief.
  • Grief is not just sadness; it encompasses a wide range of emotions and experiences.
  • Anticipatory grief can be just as profound as the grief experienced after a loss.
  • There is no timeline for grief; it is a nonlinear process.
  • Seeking support for grief should not be limited to crisis moments.
  • Understanding the difference between emotions, feelings, and moods can aid in processing grief.
  • Narrative therapy can help individuals articulate their grief experiences.
  • All forms of loss are valid and deserve recognition and support.
  • Grief is a language that requires learning and understanding. 
  • Reframing narratives around grief can transform our experiences.
  • Self-compassion is essential in dealing with difficult emotions.
  • Mindfulness practices help create space between experience and story.
  • Finding joy in small moments can counteract feelings of sadness.
  • Delivering delight to others fosters connection and joy.
  • We are all interconnected, and our suffering is shared.
  • Happiness is not a destination but a fleeting state.
  • Starting close in can help manage feelings of overwhelm.
  • Community support is vital in times of grief.
  • Practicing gratitude and beauty-seeking can enhance our aliveness.

Connect with Lisa Keefauver:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How can we center aliveness in a world full of loss?

In this heartfelt conversation, host Nina Rodriguez and grief activist, TEDx speaker, podcast host, and author, Lisa Keefauver, MSW dive into the complexities of grief, offering insights on grief literacy and the personal experiences that shape how we process loss. They explore the emotional impact of grief, highlighting the gap between learning about grief and living through it.

The discussion unpacks the nuances of emotions, feelings, and moods, shedding light on how understanding these distinctions can support healing. Lisa shares powerful tools from narrative therapy, emphasizing the importance of reframing our grief stories. Together, they explore how self-compassion, mindfulness, and community can help us navigate grief — while still finding moments of joy and connection.

The episode offers practical strategies for cultivating aliveness, delivering delight to others, and embracing our shared humanity in the face of loss.

*** Click here to watch on YouTube ***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a universal experience that affects everyone uniquely.
  • Grief literacy is essential to reduce unnecessary suffering during grief.
  • Grief is not just sadness; it encompasses a wide range of emotions and experiences.
  • Anticipatory grief can be just as profound as the grief experienced after a loss.
  • There is no timeline for grief; it is a nonlinear process.
  • Seeking support for grief should not be limited to crisis moments.
  • Understanding the difference between emotions, feelings, and moods can aid in processing grief.
  • Narrative therapy can help individuals articulate their grief experiences.
  • All forms of loss are valid and deserve recognition and support.
  • Grief is a language that requires learning and understanding. 
  • Reframing narratives around grief can transform our experiences.
  • Self-compassion is essential in dealing with difficult emotions.
  • Mindfulness practices help create space between experience and story.
  • Finding joy in small moments can counteract feelings of sadness.
  • Delivering delight to others fosters connection and joy.
  • We are all interconnected, and our suffering is shared.
  • Happiness is not a destination but a fleeting state.
  • Starting close in can help manage feelings of overwhelm.
  • Community support is vital in times of grief.
  • Practicing gratitude and beauty-seeking can enhance our aliveness.

Connect with Lisa Keefauver:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16793913 Tue, 18 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 3593 grief, breast cancer survivor, loss of a husband, widow, loss of a partner, loss of a spouse, loss of a loved one, grief and loss, hope, grief literacy, grief is a sneaky bitch, grief literacy, narrative therapy, emotional wellness, 4 68 full true Lisa Keefauver Nina Rodriguez Love and Widowhood: Grief, Community, and Healing after Loss with Tina Fornwald Love and Widowhood: Grief, Community, and Healing after Loss with Tina Fornwald How do we find the strength to keep going when the life we built with someone we love is suddenly gone?

In this poignant episode, host Nina Rodriguez speaks with Tina Fornwald, an empowerment coach, podcast host, and retired Chief Warrant Officer, about her journey through grief after a miscarriage, surviving breast cancer, and losing Mark, her beloved husband of 32 years.

Through her story, Tina illuminates the complexities of grief, the importance of community support, and the unique challenges faced by widows and widowers. 

This episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the importance of honoring every facet of grief, the need for open conversation, and the enduring power of love.

Tina discusses the challenges of redefining her identity, embracing grief, and the duality of love as she moves forward in life, emphasizing the importance of community support, the validity of one's feelings in grief, and the ongoing connection to lost loved ones. Her insights provide hope for others experiencing similar losses.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • Widowhood encompasses a unique set of challenges and emotions.
  • Grief is a complex and multifaceted experience.
  • It's important to allow individuals to express their pain.
  • The language of grief is often difficult to articulate.
  • Coping with loss requires understanding and patience from others.
  • Being present for someone grieving is a powerful gift.
  • Grief can manifest in various forms beyond the loss of a loved one.
  • There is no hierarchy in grief; each person's experience is valid.
  • Sharing stories about the deceased can help in the healing process. 
  • You have to redefine your role as a mother after loss.
  • Grief is a journey that requires honesty and openness.
  • You can still have a purpose and a story after loss.
  • Community support is crucial in the grieving process.
  • There are no timelines for grief; it's a personal journey.
  • Remarriage does not diminish the love for a deceased spouse.
  • It's okay to seek help and talk about your feelings.
  • You can create new traditions while honoring your loved one.
  • Your love story continues even after loss.

***

Join THE COMMUNITY by Grief and Light | Access support anytime, anywhere.

***

Connect with Tina Fornwald:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How do we find the strength to keep going when the life we built with someone we love is suddenly gone?

In this poignant episode, host Nina Rodriguez speaks with Tina Fornwald, an empowerment coach, podcast host, and retired Chief Warrant Officer, about her journey through grief after a miscarriage, surviving breast cancer, and losing Mark, her beloved husband of 32 years.

Through her story, Tina illuminates the complexities of grief, the importance of community support, and the unique challenges faced by widows and widowers. 

This episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the importance of honoring every facet of grief, the need for open conversation, and the enduring power of love.

Tina discusses the challenges of redefining her identity, embracing grief, and the duality of love as she moves forward in life, emphasizing the importance of community support, the validity of one's feelings in grief, and the ongoing connection to lost loved ones. Her insights provide hope for others experiencing similar losses.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • Widowhood encompasses a unique set of challenges and emotions.
  • Grief is a complex and multifaceted experience.
  • It's important to allow individuals to express their pain.
  • The language of grief is often difficult to articulate.
  • Coping with loss requires understanding and patience from others.
  • Being present for someone grieving is a powerful gift.
  • Grief can manifest in various forms beyond the loss of a loved one.
  • There is no hierarchy in grief; each person's experience is valid.
  • Sharing stories about the deceased can help in the healing process. 
  • You have to redefine your role as a mother after loss.
  • Grief is a journey that requires honesty and openness.
  • You can still have a purpose and a story after loss.
  • Community support is crucial in the grieving process.
  • There are no timelines for grief; it's a personal journey.
  • Remarriage does not diminish the love for a deceased spouse.
  • It's okay to seek help and talk about your feelings.
  • You can create new traditions while honoring your loved one.
  • Your love story continues even after loss.

***

Join THE COMMUNITY by Grief and Light | Access support anytime, anywhere.

***

Connect with Tina Fornwald:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16766459 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 4204 grief, resilience, widowhood, widow, community support, healing, loss of a spouse, loss of a husband, loss of a wife, grief support, breast cancer survivor, miscarriage, mental health, faith, remarriage, grief talk 4 67 full false Tina Fornwald Nina Rodriguez Lifebooks.io: Matt Jacobson on losing his father, and the future of preserving memories and legacies Lifebooks.io: Matt Jacobson on losing his father, and the future of preserving memories and legacies How can we ensure that the legacies of our loved ones are not forgotten?

In this episode, I speak with Matt Jacobson, a young entrepreneur whose father passed away unexpectedly, leaving a void in his life. He decided to create Lifebooks, a platform that allows families to collaborate on creating beautiful, high-quality legacy books that tell the stories of their loved ones.

Matt's story is one of resilience and hope. He is an inspiration to anyone who has lost a loved one. His work is helping to ensure that the legacies of those we love will never be forgotten.

This episode is for anyone who has lost a loved one or who wants to learn more about how to preserve family memories.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • The idea of encapsulating timeless memories with family is crucial.
  • Grief often brings isolation, but shared experiences can unite us.
  • Lifebooks was inspired by the desire to honor a loved one's legacy.
  • Creating a memorial book can be a therapeutic process.
  • Quality and durability in memorial books are essential for lasting memories.
  • The collaborative aspect of Lifebooks allows families to share diverse memories.
  • Grief can lead to profound insights about family and legacy.
  • The manufacturing process of Lifebooks ensures high-quality products.
  • Sharing memories can help heal the wounds of loss.
  • Honoring loved ones through storytelling keeps their essence alive. 
  • It's rewarding to revisit memories in a joyful manner.
  • Creating a family legacy can be a healing process.
  • The journey of building Lifebooks was filled with challenges and growth.
  • Finding purpose after loss is essential for healing.
  • Engaging in routines helps redefine what you love.
  • Being kind to yourself is crucial during difficult times.
  • Embracing life's challenges can lead to personal growth.
  • Honoring a loved one's legacy can take many forms.
  • Community support is vital in the grieving process.
  • Life is a beautiful journey, even amidst hardships.

***

Join THE COMMUNITY by Grief and Light | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.

***

Call to action:

  1. Watch / listen to this episode.
  2. Visit lifebooks.io to learn more about how you can create your own Lifebook.

Connect with Matt Jacobson:

  • lifebooks.io
  • @lifebooks.io
  • mattjacobson@lifebooks.io

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How can we ensure that the legacies of our loved ones are not forgotten?

In this episode, I speak with Matt Jacobson, a young entrepreneur whose father passed away unexpectedly, leaving a void in his life. He decided to create Lifebooks, a platform that allows families to collaborate on creating beautiful, high-quality legacy books that tell the stories of their loved ones.

Matt's story is one of resilience and hope. He is an inspiration to anyone who has lost a loved one. His work is helping to ensure that the legacies of those we love will never be forgotten.

This episode is for anyone who has lost a loved one or who wants to learn more about how to preserve family memories.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • The idea of encapsulating timeless memories with family is crucial.
  • Grief often brings isolation, but shared experiences can unite us.
  • Lifebooks was inspired by the desire to honor a loved one's legacy.
  • Creating a memorial book can be a therapeutic process.
  • Quality and durability in memorial books are essential for lasting memories.
  • The collaborative aspect of Lifebooks allows families to share diverse memories.
  • Grief can lead to profound insights about family and legacy.
  • The manufacturing process of Lifebooks ensures high-quality products.
  • Sharing memories can help heal the wounds of loss.
  • Honoring loved ones through storytelling keeps their essence alive. 
  • It's rewarding to revisit memories in a joyful manner.
  • Creating a family legacy can be a healing process.
  • The journey of building Lifebooks was filled with challenges and growth.
  • Finding purpose after loss is essential for healing.
  • Engaging in routines helps redefine what you love.
  • Being kind to yourself is crucial during difficult times.
  • Embracing life's challenges can lead to personal growth.
  • Honoring a loved one's legacy can take many forms.
  • Community support is vital in the grieving process.
  • Life is a beautiful journey, even amidst hardships.

***

Join THE COMMUNITY by Grief and Light | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.

***

Call to action:

  1. Watch / listen to this episode.
  2. Visit lifebooks.io to learn more about how you can create your own Lifebook.

Connect with Matt Jacobson:

  • lifebooks.io
  • @lifebooks.io
  • mattjacobson@lifebooks.io

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16725853 Tue, 04 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0500 3236 grief, legacy, healing, storytelling, loss, memorial, loss of a parent, loss of a father, family business, resilience, lifebooks.io, grief podcast, surviving child, family legacy 4 66 full false Matt Jacobson Nina Rodriguez The Liminality of Grief: Embracing who you are becoming The Liminality of Grief: Embracing who you are becoming This is the threshold of grief—we’re no longer the person we were before loss, and we haven’t yet discovered who we’re evolving into. So how can we stay true to ourselves as we get to know who we are becoming?

In this episode of the Grief in Life podcast, host Nina Rodriguez explores the concept of liminality in grief, emphasizing the importance of giving oneself permission to feel and operate from a place of becoming. She discusses the challenges of navigating identity shifts after loss, the tools of heart-centered curiosity, boundaries, and self-compassion, and the significance of community and creative expression in the healing process. The conversation highlights the beauty of vulnerability and the ongoing journey of personal growth amidst grief.

***

Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a response to loss and life-altering change.
  • Liminality represents the in-between space of who you were and who you are becoming.
  • It's essential to give yourself permission to feel.
  • Heart-centered curiosity helps in navigating grief.
  • Boundaries shift after loss and need to be communicated.
  • Being gentle with yourself is crucial during grief.
  • Grief can lead to anxiety and depression if unattended.
  • Creative expression is a vital tool for processing grief.
  • Community support is essential in the grieving process.
  • Embracing vulnerability can lead to profound personal growth.


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Buy me a Coffee

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> This is the threshold of grief—we’re no longer the person we were before loss, and we haven’t yet discovered who we’re evolving into. So how can we stay true to ourselves as we get to know who we are becoming?

In this episode of the Grief in Life podcast, host Nina Rodriguez explores the concept of liminality in grief, emphasizing the importance of giving oneself permission to feel and operate from a place of becoming. She discusses the challenges of navigating identity shifts after loss, the tools of heart-centered curiosity, boundaries, and self-compassion, and the significance of community and creative expression in the healing process. The conversation highlights the beauty of vulnerability and the ongoing journey of personal growth amidst grief.

***

Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a response to loss and life-altering change.
  • Liminality represents the in-between space of who you were and who you are becoming.
  • It's essential to give yourself permission to feel.
  • Heart-centered curiosity helps in navigating grief.
  • Boundaries shift after loss and need to be communicated.
  • Being gentle with yourself is crucial during grief.
  • Grief can lead to anxiety and depression if unattended.
  • Creative expression is a vital tool for processing grief.
  • Community support is essential in the grieving process.
  • Embracing vulnerability can lead to profound personal growth.


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Buy me a Coffee

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16692384 Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0500 1799 grief, liminality, becoming, identity, self-compassion, healing, loss, transformation, emotional support, personal growth, grief podcast, hope, grief support 4 65 full false The Grief Girlie: Shea Wingate on Compounded Grief, Myth Busting, and Making Room for Joy The Grief Girlie: Shea Wingate on Compounded Grief, Myth Busting, and Making Room for Joy Have you ever felt like you're grieving "wrong"? Is there a "right" way to grieve?

In this episode of the Grief and Light podcast, host Nina Rodriguez talks with licensed therapist and grief coach, Shea Wingate aka. "The Grief Girlie," about the many faces of grief. 

Shea shares her own experience of profound loss and compounded grief, offering insights and wisdom gained from navigating the deaths of her parents and sister in a two-year span, and her calling to work with grievers.

They address common myths surrounding grief, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and validating individual experiences. 

This conversation offers a message of hope and practical strategies for finding support, processing emotions, and rediscovering joy after loss.   

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is not just about death; it encompasses various forms of loss.
  • Moving on from grief does not mean forgetting the loved ones we lost.
  • Grief can change our identity and how we view ourselves.
  • The acute phase of grief can feel overwhelming and disorienting.
  • Each loss has a unique 'tone and flavor,' affecting how we grieve.
  • Grief work involves integrating loss into our lives, not just getting over it.
  • Finding a grief-informed therapist can provide essential support.
  • Social media can be a powerful tool for connecting with others in grief.
  • Sharing personal stories of loss can help others feel less alone.
  • Grief is a lifelong journey that evolves over time. 
  • It's important to take grief one day at a time.
  • Each loss is unique and affects one's identity.
  • Positive experiences are essential for healing.
  • Rest is a crucial part of processing grief.
  • Talking about grief helps in its integration.
  • Societal pressures can complicate the grieving process.
  • There is no timeline for grief; it's a personal experience.
  • Seeking help early can prevent overwhelming grief.
  • Finding balance between grief and joy is vital.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Shea Wingate:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Have you ever felt like you're grieving "wrong"? Is there a "right" way to grieve?

In this episode of the Grief and Light podcast, host Nina Rodriguez talks with licensed therapist and grief coach, Shea Wingate aka. "The Grief Girlie," about the many faces of grief. 

Shea shares her own experience of profound loss and compounded grief, offering insights and wisdom gained from navigating the deaths of her parents and sister in a two-year span, and her calling to work with grievers.

They address common myths surrounding grief, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and validating individual experiences. 

This conversation offers a message of hope and practical strategies for finding support, processing emotions, and rediscovering joy after loss.   

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is not just about death; it encompasses various forms of loss.
  • Moving on from grief does not mean forgetting the loved ones we lost.
  • Grief can change our identity and how we view ourselves.
  • The acute phase of grief can feel overwhelming and disorienting.
  • Each loss has a unique 'tone and flavor,' affecting how we grieve.
  • Grief work involves integrating loss into our lives, not just getting over it.
  • Finding a grief-informed therapist can provide essential support.
  • Social media can be a powerful tool for connecting with others in grief.
  • Sharing personal stories of loss can help others feel less alone.
  • Grief is a lifelong journey that evolves over time. 
  • It's important to take grief one day at a time.
  • Each loss is unique and affects one's identity.
  • Positive experiences are essential for healing.
  • Rest is a crucial part of processing grief.
  • Talking about grief helps in its integration.
  • Societal pressures can complicate the grieving process.
  • There is no timeline for grief; it's a personal experience.
  • Seeking help early can prevent overwhelming grief.
  • Finding balance between grief and joy is vital.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Shea Wingate:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16584322 Tue, 11 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 2984 grief, loss, therapy, grief coaching, mental health, bereavement, emotional healing, coping strategies, personal stories, healing, emotional support, grief myths, personal growth, coping strategies, positive experiences 4 64 full false Shea Wingate Nina Rodriguez Showing Up Meaningfully in 2025: Evolving from "Me" to "We" Showing Up Meaningfully in 2025: Evolving from "Me" to "We" 2025: It's a year of big changes, big feelings, and maybe even a little bit of big grief.  Feeling a little lost in the chaos of 2025? You're not alone. 

On this episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez dives deep into what it means to show up meaningfully in "unprecedented" times. She explores the idea of the "pendulum redux," the power of our individual callings, and why connection and joy are non-negotiable. Join Nina for an honest and reflective episode about meeting life as it is, personal stories, and actionable tools to help you cultivate connection, compassion, and hope in the face of whatever life throws your way. 

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • 2025 marks a significant shift in collective experiences.
  • Grief is not just about death; it's about life-altering changes.
  • We all have a role to play in supporting each other.
  • We go from thesis, to antithesis, then synthesis.
  • Mindfulness and self-care are essential during difficult times.
  • Building community and empathy is crucial for healing.
  • Sharing our stories can empower others and foster connection.
  • Finding joy is a key ingredient for resilience.
  • It's important to acknowledge and validate each other's experiences.
  • We are moving from a culture of individualism to collectivism.
  • You are not alone in your grief; seek out support.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Buy me a Coffee

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> 2025: It's a year of big changes, big feelings, and maybe even a little bit of big grief.  Feeling a little lost in the chaos of 2025? You're not alone. 

On this episode of Grief and Light, host Nina Rodriguez dives deep into what it means to show up meaningfully in "unprecedented" times. She explores the idea of the "pendulum redux," the power of our individual callings, and why connection and joy are non-negotiable. Join Nina for an honest and reflective episode about meeting life as it is, personal stories, and actionable tools to help you cultivate connection, compassion, and hope in the face of whatever life throws your way. 

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

  • 2025 marks a significant shift in collective experiences.
  • Grief is not just about death; it's about life-altering changes.
  • We all have a role to play in supporting each other.
  • We go from thesis, to antithesis, then synthesis.
  • Mindfulness and self-care are essential during difficult times.
  • Building community and empathy is crucial for healing.
  • Sharing our stories can empower others and foster connection.
  • Finding joy is a key ingredient for resilience.
  • It's important to acknowledge and validate each other's experiences.
  • We are moving from a culture of individualism to collectivism.
  • You are not alone in your grief; seek out support.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Buy me a Coffee

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16565286 Thu, 06 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 2045 grief, collective grief, mindfulness, empathy, community, storytelling, self-care, connection, resilience, joy 4 63 full false Embracing the "New You" After Loss: Reflections of 2024 and Hope for 2025 Embracing the "New You" After Loss: Reflections of 2024 and Hope for 2025 In this reflective episode of Grief and Light, Nina Rodriguez delves into the process of embracing a new sense of self after experiencing loss and life-altering change, offering insights and encouragement as we transition into 2025. As the new year approaches, she reflects on the ways grief reshapes our identity and forces us to confront changes we may not have chosen, emphasizing how it shapes identity, perspective, and priorities. Drawing from her own experiences and those of her clients, Nina offers insights on how to honor who you were before the loss while making space for growth and self-discovery. She shares practical tips for navigating change with compassion and highlights the importance of hope, curiosity, and hope as guiding forces in the healing process. This episode serves as both a comforting companion and an empowering reminder to invite harmonious change amidst life's most difficult transitions.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • When we experience life altering loss, a new version of ourselves is born.
  • Show yourself grace as you learn who you are becoming.
  • Grief can be confusing to navigate; honesty is essential.
  • The pain of loss is unchangeable, but suffering can be adjusted.
  • Community support is vital in the grief journey.
  • The Forever a Sister program provided a safe space for sharing.
  • Grief is not limited to physical loss; it's everywhere.
  • Life is change, and with loss, it's accelerated change.
  • It's important to honor your own timeline in grief.
  • Resources are crucial for those in early grief.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this reflective episode of Grief and Light, Nina Rodriguez delves into the process of embracing a new sense of self after experiencing loss and life-altering change, offering insights and encouragement as we transition into 2025. As the new year approaches, she reflects on the ways grief reshapes our identity and forces us to confront changes we may not have chosen, emphasizing how it shapes identity, perspective, and priorities. Drawing from her own experiences and those of her clients, Nina offers insights on how to honor who you were before the loss while making space for growth and self-discovery. She shares practical tips for navigating change with compassion and highlights the importance of hope, curiosity, and hope as guiding forces in the healing process. This episode serves as both a comforting companion and an empowering reminder to invite harmonious change amidst life's most difficult transitions.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • When we experience life altering loss, a new version of ourselves is born.
  • Show yourself grace as you learn who you are becoming.
  • Grief can be confusing to navigate; honesty is essential.
  • The pain of loss is unchangeable, but suffering can be adjusted.
  • Community support is vital in the grief journey.
  • The Forever a Sister program provided a safe space for sharing.
  • Grief is not limited to physical loss; it's everywhere.
  • Life is change, and with loss, it's accelerated change.
  • It's important to honor your own timeline in grief.
  • Resources are crucial for those in early grief.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16352483 Sun, 29 Dec 2024 19:00:00 -0500 930 grief, loss, grief community, healing from grief, grief support, Forever a Sister, grief journey, grief podcast, emotional well-being, personal growth, coping strategies, new year grief, loss of a loved one, pet loss 3 62 full false "Griefmas" & Griefy Holidays: Your Survival Guide for When Life Doesn't Feel Merry or Bright "Griefmas" & Griefy Holidays: Your Survival Guide for When Life Doesn't Feel Merry or Bright In this episode of the Grief and Light podcast, host Nina Rodriguez discusses the complexities of experiencing grief during the holiday season. She emphasizes the normalization of grief, especially during times that are typically associated with joy and celebration. Nina shares various coping strategies, the importance of acknowledging one's feelings, and the healing power of creating new traditions, reclaiming a sense of agency, communicating our needs, and setting boundaries.

She encourages listeners to lean into their grief and joy, and to give themselves permission to pivot, as needed. The episode serves as a resource for those navigating the difficult emotions that arise during the holidays.

•••
Click here to watch on YouTube
•••   

Takeaways

  • Grief can feel heavier during the holidays.
  • It's normal to feel a contrast between grief and holiday joy.
  • Acknowledge and honor your grief; don't push it down.
  • You have the power to create new traditions.
  • Setting boundaries is crucial for emotional well-being.
  • It's okay to not feel merry and bright during the holidays.
  • Lean into moments of joy when they arise.
  • Grief needs to be witnessed, not fixed.
  • Give yourself permission to pivot and change plans.
  • Self-care practices are essential during this time.


Referenced in Episode:
Holiday Scripts for Grievers: What to say when the season doesn't feel merry or bright


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddiscl

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this episode of the Grief and Light podcast, host Nina Rodriguez discusses the complexities of experiencing grief during the holiday season. She emphasizes the normalization of grief, especially during times that are typically associated with joy and celebration. Nina shares various coping strategies, the importance of acknowledging one's feelings, and the healing power of creating new traditions, reclaiming a sense of agency, communicating our needs, and setting boundaries.

She encourages listeners to lean into their grief and joy, and to give themselves permission to pivot, as needed. The episode serves as a resource for those navigating the difficult emotions that arise during the holidays.

•••
Click here to watch on YouTube
•••   

Takeaways

  • Grief can feel heavier during the holidays.
  • It's normal to feel a contrast between grief and holiday joy.
  • Acknowledge and honor your grief; don't push it down.
  • You have the power to create new traditions.
  • Setting boundaries is crucial for emotional well-being.
  • It's okay to not feel merry and bright during the holidays.
  • Lean into moments of joy when they arise.
  • Grief needs to be witnessed, not fixed.
  • Give yourself permission to pivot and change plans.
  • Self-care practices are essential during this time.


Referenced in Episode:
Holiday Scripts for Grievers: What to say when the season doesn't feel merry or bright


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual home for grievers. Access support anytime, anywhere.
***

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddiscl

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16302679 Wed, 18 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0500 2010 griefmas, grief and christmas, grief and the holidays, holidays, holiday grief, coping strategies, emotional support, grief triggers, new traditions, boundaries, self-care, mental health, grief community, grief podcast, grief, grief support, sibling loss, 3 61 full false 'Grief 2 Growth': Brian D. Smith on Signs, Synchronicities, and Making Meaning after Child Loss 'Grief 2 Growth': Brian D. Smith on Signs, Synchronicities, and Making Meaning after Child Loss In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez engages in a heartfelt conversation with Brian D. Smith, a certified grief educator, life purpose coach, author, speaker, and host of the Grief2Growth Podcast. They explore the profound themes of grief, loss, and the journey towards healing. Brian shares his personal experience of losing his daughter Shayna and how it transformed his understanding of life, death, and the afterlife. The discussion delves into the significance of signs and synchronicities in the grieving process, the concept of lucid dreaming as a means of connecting with loved ones, and the reconciliation of scientific and spiritual perspectives on grief.

•••
Click here to watch on YouTube
•••

Through their dialogue, they aim to provide comfort and insight to those navigating their own journeys of loss. In this conversation, the speaker explores the profound themes of grief, healing, and the interconnectedness of our journeys through life. They discuss the concept of viewing life as a 'team effort', where experiences and challenges are shared among your spiritual 'team'. Brian shares his GEMS framework, which provides four practical steps for healing. The conversation also touches on the significance of gratitude and the ongoing connection with loved ones who have passed, highlighting that they remain a part of our lives in spirit.

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a personal journey that varies for everyone.
  • Understanding that loved ones continue to exist can provide comfort.
  • Signs and synchronicities can be powerful indicators of connection with our loved ones in Spirit.
  • Lucid dreaming can facilitate connection and communication.
  • It's important to remain open to different perspectives on grief.
  • Grief can lead to personal growth and rediscovery of purpose.
  • The mind and consciousness can affect the physical world.
  • Reconciliation of science and spirituality is possible.
  • Setting specific signs can help in recognizing connections.
  • Grief can open us to new realities and understandings.  
  • We come into life with a team, not just for ourselves.
  • Grief can lead to personal growth and understanding.
  • Finding meaning in loss is a personal journey.
  • Gratitude can shift our perspective during grief.
  • Healing is not about getting over loss, but moving through it.
  • The GEMS framework offers practical steps for healing.
  • Our loved ones want us to thrive, not remain sad.
  • Every experience, even painful ones, can lead to growth.
  • We can choose the meaning we assign to our experiences.
  • The connection with those we've lost continues in spirit.


Connect with Brian D. Smith:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez engages in a heartfelt conversation with Brian D. Smith, a certified grief educator, life purpose coach, author, speaker, and host of the Grief2Growth Podcast. They explore the profound themes of grief, loss, and the journey towards healing. Brian shares his personal experience of losing his daughter Shayna and how it transformed his understanding of life, death, and the afterlife. The discussion delves into the significance of signs and synchronicities in the grieving process, the concept of lucid dreaming as a means of connecting with loved ones, and the reconciliation of scientific and spiritual perspectives on grief.

•••
Click here to watch on YouTube
•••

Through their dialogue, they aim to provide comfort and insight to those navigating their own journeys of loss. In this conversation, the speaker explores the profound themes of grief, healing, and the interconnectedness of our journeys through life. They discuss the concept of viewing life as a 'team effort', where experiences and challenges are shared among your spiritual 'team'. Brian shares his GEMS framework, which provides four practical steps for healing. The conversation also touches on the significance of gratitude and the ongoing connection with loved ones who have passed, highlighting that they remain a part of our lives in spirit.

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a personal journey that varies for everyone.
  • Understanding that loved ones continue to exist can provide comfort.
  • Signs and synchronicities can be powerful indicators of connection with our loved ones in Spirit.
  • Lucid dreaming can facilitate connection and communication.
  • It's important to remain open to different perspectives on grief.
  • Grief can lead to personal growth and rediscovery of purpose.
  • The mind and consciousness can affect the physical world.
  • Reconciliation of science and spirituality is possible.
  • Setting specific signs can help in recognizing connections.
  • Grief can open us to new realities and understandings.  
  • We come into life with a team, not just for ourselves.
  • Grief can lead to personal growth and understanding.
  • Finding meaning in loss is a personal journey.
  • Gratitude can shift our perspective during grief.
  • Healing is not about getting over loss, but moving through it.
  • The GEMS framework offers practical steps for healing.
  • Our loved ones want us to thrive, not remain sad.
  • Every experience, even painful ones, can lead to growth.
  • We can choose the meaning we assign to our experiences.
  • The connection with those we've lost continues in spirit.


Connect with Brian D. Smith:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Brian D. Smith Buzzsprout-16210855 Wed, 04 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 3450 3 60 full false Brian D. Smith Nina Rodriguez Finding Pockets of Sunshine: Dr. Monica Krishnan on Grief, Mental Health and Healing Finding Pockets of Sunshine: Dr. Monica Krishnan on Grief, Mental Health and Healing In this conversation, Dr. Monica Krishnan shares her profound journey through grief, self-discovery, and healing after losing her husband to brain cancer. She discusses her experiences with high-functioning depression, the importance of support systems, and her advocacy work in mental health. Dr. Krishnan emphasizes the need for open conversations about grief, especially among children, and the role of spirituality in healing. Her insights and personal stories provide listeners with hope and practical tools for navigating their own grief journeys. She discusses the importance of shedding societal labels, embracing one's true essence, and the transformative power of stillness. The dialogue emphasizes the unique nature of grief, the significance of finding joy amidst sorrow, and the importance of intentional rest and reflection. Dr. Krishnan also shares her new children's book, 'Finding Pockets of Sunshine,' which follows 8 year old Anisha as she discovers resilience and joy amidst grief, showcasing the transformative power of love and hope in the face of loss.

Takeaways:

  • Support systems are crucial in navigating grief and loss.
  • Children need to learn about grief and mental health early on.
  • Dr. Krishnan's book aims to help children understand grief.
  • Spirituality played a significant role in her healing journey.
  • Grace is essential in the grieving process.
  • Community and connection can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
  • Advocacy for mental health awareness is vital for societal change. 
  • There are many labels that are put on somebody who has experienced loss.
  • Stripping off the labels and learning who we are without them is healing.
  • It is so important to rest. Vipassana retreats are an excellent way to do so.
  • Grief is an invitation to slow down.
  • You can also have pockets of sunshine in your grieving journey.
  • Your journey of grief is your journey.
  • Stories keep our love alive and growing.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space to navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Dr. Monica Krishnan:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this conversation, Dr. Monica Krishnan shares her profound journey through grief, self-discovery, and healing after losing her husband to brain cancer. She discusses her experiences with high-functioning depression, the importance of support systems, and her advocacy work in mental health. Dr. Krishnan emphasizes the need for open conversations about grief, especially among children, and the role of spirituality in healing. Her insights and personal stories provide listeners with hope and practical tools for navigating their own grief journeys. She discusses the importance of shedding societal labels, embracing one's true essence, and the transformative power of stillness. The dialogue emphasizes the unique nature of grief, the significance of finding joy amidst sorrow, and the importance of intentional rest and reflection. Dr. Krishnan also shares her new children's book, 'Finding Pockets of Sunshine,' which follows 8 year old Anisha as she discovers resilience and joy amidst grief, showcasing the transformative power of love and hope in the face of loss.

Takeaways:

  • Support systems are crucial in navigating grief and loss.
  • Children need to learn about grief and mental health early on.
  • Dr. Krishnan's book aims to help children understand grief.
  • Spirituality played a significant role in her healing journey.
  • Grace is essential in the grieving process.
  • Community and connection can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
  • Advocacy for mental health awareness is vital for societal change. 
  • There are many labels that are put on somebody who has experienced loss.
  • Stripping off the labels and learning who we are without them is healing.
  • It is so important to rest. Vipassana retreats are an excellent way to do so.
  • Grief is an invitation to slow down.
  • You can also have pockets of sunshine in your grieving journey.
  • Your journey of grief is your journey.
  • Stories keep our love alive and growing.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space to navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Dr. Monica Krishnan:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Dr. Monica Krishnan Buzzsprout-16134503 Mon, 25 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500 2474 grief, mental health, high functioning depression, children's book, support system, healing, advocacy, loss, coping strategies, self-discovery, identity, stillness, healing, spirituality, personal growth, empowerment, community support 3 59 full false Dr. Monica Krishnan Nina Rodriguez Impacted Survivors: Navigating Grief and Stigma After Murder-Suicide Loss Impacted Survivors: Navigating Grief and Stigma After Murder-Suicide Loss This episode addresses the complex and sensitive topic of murder-suicide and its profound impact on survivors, which may be activating for some listeners. We aim to approach these topics with care and respect, highlighting the need for community support and open dialogue.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or in crisis, help is available:

  • Call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.)
  • Visit 988lifeline.org or crisistextline.org for additional resources and support

Please prioritize your well-being, and listen only if you feel ready and supported.

Summary:

Joined by guests Michael Vinton and Tina Chevalier, two of the three co-founders of Impacted Survivors of Murder Suicide, this episode explores the complexities, layers, and stigma surrounding loss related to murder-suicide, the unique challenges faced by survivors, and the role of media in shaping public perception. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community support and the need for sensitive reporting on such tragedies, while also highlighting the healing power of sharing personal stories and experiences. They explore the non-linear nature of grief, the importance of support groups, and the challenges of reconciling emotions after such traumatic events. They discuss the meaning of "living forward" after loss, while also addressing the societal pressures and personal struggles that accompany grief.

Takeaways:

  • Grief can encompass multiple truths and experiences.
  • Murder-suicide is a complex and stigmatized form of loss.
  • Survivors often feel isolated and misunderstood.
  • Finding a supportive community can be crucial for healing.
  • Media coverage of murder-suicides often lacks sensitivity.
  • Survivors are left to navigate a complicated grief process.
  • There is a need for better resources for murder-suicide survivors.
  • The impact of sensationalized media can be re-traumatizing.
  • Support groups can provide a safe space for sharing.
  • Naming and discussing grief openly can aid in healing. 
  • Grief is not a linear process and varies for everyone.
  • Support groups provide essential understanding and shared experiences.
  • The societal perception of grief can complicate personal healing.
  • Each person's story of loss is unique and layered.
  • Creating a framework for specific types of loss is crucial.
  • Finding help and community is vital for healing.
  • It's important to acknowledge the nuances of grief and loss.
  • Reconciling the layers of loss in murder-suicide is a process.


Join THE COMMUNITY | A vi

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> This episode addresses the complex and sensitive topic of murder-suicide and its profound impact on survivors, which may be activating for some listeners. We aim to approach these topics with care and respect, highlighting the need for community support and open dialogue.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or in crisis, help is available:

  • Call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.)
  • Visit 988lifeline.org or crisistextline.org for additional resources and support

Please prioritize your well-being, and listen only if you feel ready and supported.

Summary:

Joined by guests Michael Vinton and Tina Chevalier, two of the three co-founders of Impacted Survivors of Murder Suicide, this episode explores the complexities, layers, and stigma surrounding loss related to murder-suicide, the unique challenges faced by survivors, and the role of media in shaping public perception. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community support and the need for sensitive reporting on such tragedies, while also highlighting the healing power of sharing personal stories and experiences. They explore the non-linear nature of grief, the importance of support groups, and the challenges of reconciling emotions after such traumatic events. They discuss the meaning of "living forward" after loss, while also addressing the societal pressures and personal struggles that accompany grief.

Takeaways:

  • Grief can encompass multiple truths and experiences.
  • Murder-suicide is a complex and stigmatized form of loss.
  • Survivors often feel isolated and misunderstood.
  • Finding a supportive community can be crucial for healing.
  • Media coverage of murder-suicides often lacks sensitivity.
  • Survivors are left to navigate a complicated grief process.
  • There is a need for better resources for murder-suicide survivors.
  • The impact of sensationalized media can be re-traumatizing.
  • Support groups can provide a safe space for sharing.
  • Naming and discussing grief openly can aid in healing. 
  • Grief is not a linear process and varies for everyone.
  • Support groups provide essential understanding and shared experiences.
  • The societal perception of grief can complicate personal healing.
  • Each person's story of loss is unique and layered.
  • Creating a framework for specific types of loss is crucial.
  • Finding help and community is vital for healing.
  • It's important to acknowledge the nuances of grief and loss.
  • Reconciling the layers of loss in murder-suicide is a process.


Join THE COMMUNITY | A vi

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guests: Michael Vinton, Tina Chevalier Buzzsprout-16116581 Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 2900 grief, stigmatized loss, disenfranchised grief, traumatic loss, traumatic grief, stigma, support, healing, media, awareness, community, loss, survivors, grief, support groups, loss, mental health, healing, sibling loss, murder suicide, emotional support 3 58 full true Michael Vinton Tina Chevalier Nina Rodriguez Embracing what is with Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer Embracing what is with Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer In this heartfelt conversation, award-winning poet and author, Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer, shares her journey of navigating grief after the sudden loss of her son, Finn, in 2021, followed by the loss of her father. Through poetry and reflection, she explores the themes of grief, surrender, love, the natural world, and the transformative power of writing. The episode delves into the nuances of grief, and the ways in which creativity can serve as a sacred anchoring practice as we learn to meet what is with curiosity, and how to carry our person's "love light" after loss.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Rosemerry and Nina explore the intricate relationship between grief, praise, and the art of surrender. They delve into how moments of beauty and connection can arise even in the depths of sorrow, emphasizing the importance of honoring loved ones while navigating personal loss. Through poetry and personal anecdotes, they illustrate the duality of joy and grief, and the grace found in surrendering to life's challenges, as we're flooded with "the relentless truth of what is". The discussion culminates in a reflection on the complexity of emotions and the healing power of words.

Takeaways:

  • Surrender is the surest medicine that exists.
  • Grief thrusts you into living in the "and".
  • Writing became a practice of meeting each moment with wonderment.
  • The story of grief is nonlinear and ever-changing.
  • Love continues to grow even after loss.
  • Finding joy is a possibility, even in grief.
  • Asking questions can open doors to new perspectives.
  • We can witness our own grief from a third-person perspective.
  • Praise can be a way of embracing life as it is.
  • The Unfolding reflects the spectrum of grief and love. 
  • Surrendering to life's challenges can lead to profound insights.
  • Life and love happen through us.
  • Our loved ones leave us their "love light" to carry.
  • The heart can hold multiple emotions simultaneously.
  • Grief can deepen our sensitivity and connection to life.
  • Art and poetry can be powerful tools in life and grief.
  • Creating new words can help articulate complex emotions.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space to navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this heartfelt conversation, award-winning poet and author, Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer, shares her journey of navigating grief after the sudden loss of her son, Finn, in 2021, followed by the loss of her father. Through poetry and reflection, she explores the themes of grief, surrender, love, the natural world, and the transformative power of writing. The episode delves into the nuances of grief, and the ways in which creativity can serve as a sacred anchoring practice as we learn to meet what is with curiosity, and how to carry our person's "love light" after loss.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Rosemerry and Nina explore the intricate relationship between grief, praise, and the art of surrender. They delve into how moments of beauty and connection can arise even in the depths of sorrow, emphasizing the importance of honoring loved ones while navigating personal loss. Through poetry and personal anecdotes, they illustrate the duality of joy and grief, and the grace found in surrendering to life's challenges, as we're flooded with "the relentless truth of what is". The discussion culminates in a reflection on the complexity of emotions and the healing power of words.

Takeaways:

  • Surrender is the surest medicine that exists.
  • Grief thrusts you into living in the "and".
  • Writing became a practice of meeting each moment with wonderment.
  • The story of grief is nonlinear and ever-changing.
  • Love continues to grow even after loss.
  • Finding joy is a possibility, even in grief.
  • Asking questions can open doors to new perspectives.
  • We can witness our own grief from a third-person perspective.
  • Praise can be a way of embracing life as it is.
  • The Unfolding reflects the spectrum of grief and love. 
  • Surrendering to life's challenges can lead to profound insights.
  • Life and love happen through us.
  • Our loved ones leave us their "love light" to carry.
  • The heart can hold multiple emotions simultaneously.
  • Grief can deepen our sensitivity and connection to life.
  • Art and poetry can be powerful tools in life and grief.
  • Creating new words can help articulate complex emotions.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space to navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer Buzzsprout-16073967 Tue, 12 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 3767 grief, resilience, the unfolding, poetry, healing, loss, surrender, joy, perspective, wonder, praise, emotional complexity, 11 powers of the universe, loss of a son, loss of a child 3 57 full false Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer Nina Rodriguez Beyond Platitudes: Erin Blechman Talks Candidly About Suicide Loss and Supporting Grievers Beyond Platitudes: Erin Blechman Talks Candidly About Suicide Loss and Supporting Grievers In this deeply moving episode, grief educator Erin Blechman opens up about her profound journey through loss after the death of her son, Max. Erin invites us into her experience of navigating the unique pain of suicide loss, sharing stories of Max’s life, his struggles, and the love that continues to shape her every day. She candidly explores the complexities of grief, the strength it takes to push past well-meaning but hurtful platitudes, and the necessity of compassion when facing tragedy. Erin discusses how her own healing journey has inspired her to support other bereaved parents, offering a space for community and mutual understanding. Through her work and writing, she brings to light the ongoing dance between hope and sorrow, illustrating how shared experiences and genuine presence can make a lasting impact on the path to healing. This episode is a heartfelt conversation on the power of community, the importance of authentic support, and the resilience that stems from love and loss.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a lifelong journey that evolves over time and varies for everyone.
  • It's essential to sit with someone in their grief rather than trying to fix it.
  • Mental illness can manifest in various ways, often misunderstood by society.
  • Community support plays a crucial role in the healing process.
  • Compassion and empathy are vital when supporting bereaved parents.
  • Platitudes can be more hurtful than helpful during times of loss.
  • Understanding the nuances of depression is key to providing support.
  • Faith can be a source of comfort but can also lead to hurtful comments.
  • Sharing stories of loved ones helps keep their memory alive.
  • Healing involves recognizing and processing regret in our actions.  
  • Being present is more important than offering solutions.
  • Hope can be elusive after a significant loss.
  • Grieving parents often feel isolated in their pain.
  • Education about grief can empower those who are grieving.
  • Support groups provide validation and understanding.

***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Erin Blechman:


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this deeply moving episode, grief educator Erin Blechman opens up about her profound journey through loss after the death of her son, Max. Erin invites us into her experience of navigating the unique pain of suicide loss, sharing stories of Max’s life, his struggles, and the love that continues to shape her every day. She candidly explores the complexities of grief, the strength it takes to push past well-meaning but hurtful platitudes, and the necessity of compassion when facing tragedy. Erin discusses how her own healing journey has inspired her to support other bereaved parents, offering a space for community and mutual understanding. Through her work and writing, she brings to light the ongoing dance between hope and sorrow, illustrating how shared experiences and genuine presence can make a lasting impact on the path to healing. This episode is a heartfelt conversation on the power of community, the importance of authentic support, and the resilience that stems from love and loss.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a lifelong journey that evolves over time and varies for everyone.
  • It's essential to sit with someone in their grief rather than trying to fix it.
  • Mental illness can manifest in various ways, often misunderstood by society.
  • Community support plays a crucial role in the healing process.
  • Compassion and empathy are vital when supporting bereaved parents.
  • Platitudes can be more hurtful than helpful during times of loss.
  • Understanding the nuances of depression is key to providing support.
  • Faith can be a source of comfort but can also lead to hurtful comments.
  • Sharing stories of loved ones helps keep their memory alive.
  • Healing involves recognizing and processing regret in our actions.  
  • Being present is more important than offering solutions.
  • Hope can be elusive after a significant loss.
  • Grieving parents often feel isolated in their pain.
  • Education about grief can empower those who are grieving.
  • Support groups provide validation and understanding.

***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Erin Blechman:


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-16034163 Mon, 04 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 3683 grief, loss, mental health, support groups, bereavement, parenting, community, healing, hope 3 56 full false Erin Blechman Nina Rodriguez LIFE SHIFT: Matt Gilhooly on grieving loved ones, pet loss, and healing through storytelling LIFE SHIFT: Matt Gilhooly on grieving loved ones, pet loss, and healing through storytelling In remembrance of the goodest boy, Mikey.

Matt Gilhooly shares his profound journey through grief, beginning with the sudden loss of his mother at a young age. He reflects on how this pivotal moment shaped his life and the way he processes emotions. The discussion delves into the complexities of grief, the impact of childhood trauma, and the perfectionist tendencies that can arise from a desire to mask pain. Matt also contrasts his experiences with anticipatory loss, particularly with his grandmother, highlighting the importance of open communication and emotional connection during difficult times. The conversation emphasizes the significance of storytelling in understanding and navigating grief. Matt reflects on personal experiences with family dynamics in grief, the healing power of writing, and the creation of The Life Shift Podcast, which features candid conversations with people about the pivotal moments that changed their lives forever. He also delves into the profound grief associated with losing his pet, Mikey, highlighting the unique challenges it presents.

***
Watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • The stories we carry shape our identities and connections.
  • Grief often intertwines with trauma, especially in childhood.
  • Children may not fully grasp the concept of death and grief.
  • Perfectionism can stem from a desire to mask grief.
  • Processing grief can take decades and may not follow a linear path.
  • Anticipatory loss allows for meaningful conversations and closure.
  • Grief is not just about the loss of a person, but also the loss of potential experiences.
  • Open communication is crucial in navigating relationships during grief.
  • Understanding one's grief journey can lead to personal growth.
  • Healing from grief involves recognizing and addressing past traumas. 
  • It's important to have open conversations about grief with family.
  • Writing can be a powerful tool for processing grief.
  • Creating a podcast allowed for sharing and healing through stories.
  • Pet loss can be as profound as losing a human loved one.
  • Making decisions for a pet's end-of-life care is incredibly difficult.
  • Sharing our stories helps others feel less alone in their grief.
  • We need to normalize conversations about grief and loss.


Connect with Matt Gilhooly:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In remembrance of the goodest boy, Mikey.

Matt Gilhooly shares his profound journey through grief, beginning with the sudden loss of his mother at a young age. He reflects on how this pivotal moment shaped his life and the way he processes emotions. The discussion delves into the complexities of grief, the impact of childhood trauma, and the perfectionist tendencies that can arise from a desire to mask pain. Matt also contrasts his experiences with anticipatory loss, particularly with his grandmother, highlighting the importance of open communication and emotional connection during difficult times. The conversation emphasizes the significance of storytelling in understanding and navigating grief. Matt reflects on personal experiences with family dynamics in grief, the healing power of writing, and the creation of The Life Shift Podcast, which features candid conversations with people about the pivotal moments that changed their lives forever. He also delves into the profound grief associated with losing his pet, Mikey, highlighting the unique challenges it presents.

***
Watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • The stories we carry shape our identities and connections.
  • Grief often intertwines with trauma, especially in childhood.
  • Children may not fully grasp the concept of death and grief.
  • Perfectionism can stem from a desire to mask grief.
  • Processing grief can take decades and may not follow a linear path.
  • Anticipatory loss allows for meaningful conversations and closure.
  • Grief is not just about the loss of a person, but also the loss of potential experiences.
  • Open communication is crucial in navigating relationships during grief.
  • Understanding one's grief journey can lead to personal growth.
  • Healing from grief involves recognizing and addressing past traumas. 
  • It's important to have open conversations about grief with family.
  • Writing can be a powerful tool for processing grief.
  • Creating a podcast allowed for sharing and healing through stories.
  • Pet loss can be as profound as losing a human loved one.
  • Making decisions for a pet's end-of-life care is incredibly difficult.
  • Sharing our stories helps others feel less alone in their grief.
  • We need to normalize conversations about grief and loss.


Connect with Matt Gilhooly:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

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]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Matt Gilhooly Buzzsprout-15991374 Tue, 29 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3813 grief, storytelling, loss, childhood trauma, mental health, healing, life transitions, podcasting, emotional processing, personal growth, grief, loss, anticipatory grief, pet loss, family dynamics, healing, podcasting, mental health, emotional well-being, 3 55 full false Matt Gilhooly Nina Rodriguez Rebecca Feinglos on Loss, Grieve Leave, and Creating Grief-Informed Spaces Rebecca Feinglos on Loss, Grieve Leave, and Creating Grief-Informed Spaces Host, Nina Rodriguez, sits down with Rebecca Feinglos, a certified grief support specialist and founder of Grieve Leave, to explore her profound journey through loss. After experiencing the death of both parents and navigating the end of her marriage, Rebecca took a courageous year-long 'grieve leave' to fully immerse herself in healing. Together, they delve into the non-linear nature of grief, the powerful impact of loss on identity, and the contrasting experiences of anticipatory versus sudden grief.

Rebecca opens up about how connecting with her body through yoga and prioritizing rest became essential tools in her emotional recovery, and she emphasizes the importance of self-care in embracing grief as a path to personal growth. They also dive into how workplaces can better support grieving employees and how societal expectations of productivity often clash with the need for deep rest and reflection. Additionally, they examine the role of social media in breaking the silence around grief, highlighting how platforms like Grieve Leave have become crucial spaces for community support and honest conversations. This heartfelt discussion reminds us that embracing grief can lead to transformation and that connection—whether through movement, rest, or community—is key to healing.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Loss can significantly reshape one's identity and life perspective.
  • Sudden loss can leave unresolved feelings and shock that lingers.
  • Taking time off work can be a privilege that allows for healing.
  • Yoga can help reconnect the mind and body during grief.
  • Rest is essential for mental health and recovery from grief.
  • Grief can unlock deeper emotions related to past losses.
  • Community support is vital in navigating the grief journey.
  • Society glorifies productivity, often at the expense of well-being.
  • Rest is crucial for creativity and mental health.
  • Grief in the workplace is a pressing issue that needs attention.
  • Empathetic workplaces can significantly support grieving employees.
  • Grief can stem from various losses, not just death.
  • Creating grief-informed spaces involves everyday interactions.
  • Social media has amplified conversations about grief.
  • Community support is essential for navigating grief.
  • Grief is a non-linear process that requires understanding.
  • Policies should reflect the complexities of grief experiences.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Rebecca Feingloss:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Host, Nina Rodriguez, sits down with Rebecca Feinglos, a certified grief support specialist and founder of Grieve Leave, to explore her profound journey through loss. After experiencing the death of both parents and navigating the end of her marriage, Rebecca took a courageous year-long 'grieve leave' to fully immerse herself in healing. Together, they delve into the non-linear nature of grief, the powerful impact of loss on identity, and the contrasting experiences of anticipatory versus sudden grief.

Rebecca opens up about how connecting with her body through yoga and prioritizing rest became essential tools in her emotional recovery, and she emphasizes the importance of self-care in embracing grief as a path to personal growth. They also dive into how workplaces can better support grieving employees and how societal expectations of productivity often clash with the need for deep rest and reflection. Additionally, they examine the role of social media in breaking the silence around grief, highlighting how platforms like Grieve Leave have become crucial spaces for community support and honest conversations. This heartfelt discussion reminds us that embracing grief can lead to transformation and that connection—whether through movement, rest, or community—is key to healing.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Loss can significantly reshape one's identity and life perspective.
  • Sudden loss can leave unresolved feelings and shock that lingers.
  • Taking time off work can be a privilege that allows for healing.
  • Yoga can help reconnect the mind and body during grief.
  • Rest is essential for mental health and recovery from grief.
  • Grief can unlock deeper emotions related to past losses.
  • Community support is vital in navigating the grief journey.
  • Society glorifies productivity, often at the expense of well-being.
  • Rest is crucial for creativity and mental health.
  • Grief in the workplace is a pressing issue that needs attention.
  • Empathetic workplaces can significantly support grieving employees.
  • Grief can stem from various losses, not just death.
  • Creating grief-informed spaces involves everyday interactions.
  • Social media has amplified conversations about grief.
  • Community support is essential for navigating grief.
  • Grief is a non-linear process that requires understanding.
  • Policies should reflect the complexities of grief experiences.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Rebecca Feingloss:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Rebecca Feinglos Buzzsprout-15946286 Tue, 22 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3378 grief, loss, healing, mental health, yoga, identity, bereavement, divorce, compounded grief, grief support, personal growth, grief, workplace grief, productivity, community, bereavement, mental health, loss, death of a parent, bereaved daughter 3 54 full false Rebecca Feinglos Nina Rodriguez Grief Support 101: One-on-One, Peer-Led, and Specialist-Led Groups Grief Support 101: One-on-One, Peer-Led, and Specialist-Led Groups Host Nina Rodriguez explores the complexities of grief and the various support options available for those navigating loss. She discusses the importance of community, the differences between one-on-one support, and peer-led and specialist-led support groups, and addresses common fears associated with sharing grief in a group setting. She addresses common fears associated with joining support groups and the benefits of professional facilitation in creating a safe and nurturing environment for sharing experiences.

Nina also highlights the unique challenges of sibling grief and the need for specialized support groups.  Ultimately, she encourages listeners to seek the support that resonates with them, whether through peer-led groups or professional guidance.

***
Join “Forever a Sister”, a 4-week grief support experience for bereaved siblings.
foreverasister.com
***

Takeaways:

  • Sharing stories in a safe environment helps process and integrate loss.
  • Grief support can take many forms, including one-on-one and group settings.
  • Community support is essential for healing and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • Professional facilitation in support groups can provide structure and safety.
  • Vulnerability in sharing grief can lead to deeper connections and reestablishing a sense of harmony.
  • Grief is best navigated with the right tools and support.
  • Establishing agreements in support groups creates a sense of safety and trust.
  • Community can alleviate feelings of isolation.
  • Peer-led groups offer shared experiences but may lack professional guidance.
  • Specialist-led groups provide structure and tools for healing.
  • Vulnerability in grief support is met with compassion.
  • The bond between siblings is unique and deserves dedicated space for processing grief.
  • Sharing stories can help rewire the brain to cope with trauma.
  • It's important to know what to look for when it comes to support, and finding the one that feels right to you can be beneficial and transformational.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Host Nina Rodriguez explores the complexities of grief and the various support options available for those navigating loss. She discusses the importance of community, the differences between one-on-one support, and peer-led and specialist-led support groups, and addresses common fears associated with sharing grief in a group setting. She addresses common fears associated with joining support groups and the benefits of professional facilitation in creating a safe and nurturing environment for sharing experiences.

Nina also highlights the unique challenges of sibling grief and the need for specialized support groups.  Ultimately, she encourages listeners to seek the support that resonates with them, whether through peer-led groups or professional guidance.

***
Join “Forever a Sister”, a 4-week grief support experience for bereaved siblings.
foreverasister.com
***

Takeaways:

  • Sharing stories in a safe environment helps process and integrate loss.
  • Grief support can take many forms, including one-on-one and group settings.
  • Community support is essential for healing and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • Professional facilitation in support groups can provide structure and safety.
  • Vulnerability in sharing grief can lead to deeper connections and reestablishing a sense of harmony.
  • Grief is best navigated with the right tools and support.
  • Establishing agreements in support groups creates a sense of safety and trust.
  • Community can alleviate feelings of isolation.
  • Peer-led groups offer shared experiences but may lack professional guidance.
  • Specialist-led groups provide structure and tools for healing.
  • Vulnerability in grief support is met with compassion.
  • The bond between siblings is unique and deserves dedicated space for processing grief.
  • Sharing stories can help rewire the brain to cope with trauma.
  • It's important to know what to look for when it comes to support, and finding the one that feels right to you can be beneficial and transformational.


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-15953901 Sat, 19 Oct 2024 18:00:00 -0400 1544 grief support, grief community, bereavement, sibling loss, grief groups, mental health, coping strategies, grief and loss, grief 3 53 full false Finding Light After the Sudden Loss of a Partner | Charniah Wilson Finding Light After the Sudden Loss of a Partner | Charniah Wilson In this episode, Nina Rodriguez speaks with Charniah Wilson, who shares her journey of navigating grief after the sudden loss of her partner, Ken. Cha discusses how she channeled her grief into creativity through her platform 'Grief is Ghetto,' and 'Cha's Random Thoughts,' where she combines humor and healing. The conversation explores the complexities of grief, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned from loss. Cha emphasizes the significance of breathing through overwhelming moments and finding light amidst the chaos of grief. She reflects on her relationship with Ken as a blueprint for her life and how humor plays a vital role in coping with loss.

***
Click here to watch the video on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Conscious breathing will help center us during overwhelming moments.
  • Each person's grief journey is unique and personal.
  • Community support is crucial in navigating grief.
  • Finding humor in grief can be a powerful coping mechanism.
  • Our love for our person can serve as a blueprint for future relationships.
  • It's okay to take one moment at a time in grief.
  • Light and joy can coexist with grief.
  • The process of grieving can change over time.
  • Grief is chaotic and can feel 'ghetto'.
  • Sharing experiences can help others feel less alone. 


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Cha Wilson:


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this episode, Nina Rodriguez speaks with Charniah Wilson, who shares her journey of navigating grief after the sudden loss of her partner, Ken. Cha discusses how she channeled her grief into creativity through her platform 'Grief is Ghetto,' and 'Cha's Random Thoughts,' where she combines humor and healing. The conversation explores the complexities of grief, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned from loss. Cha emphasizes the significance of breathing through overwhelming moments and finding light amidst the chaos of grief. She reflects on her relationship with Ken as a blueprint for her life and how humor plays a vital role in coping with loss.

***
Click here to watch the video on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Conscious breathing will help center us during overwhelming moments.
  • Each person's grief journey is unique and personal.
  • Community support is crucial in navigating grief.
  • Finding humor in grief can be a powerful coping mechanism.
  • Our love for our person can serve as a blueprint for future relationships.
  • It's okay to take one moment at a time in grief.
  • Light and joy can coexist with grief.
  • The process of grieving can change over time.
  • Grief is chaotic and can feel 'ghetto'.
  • Sharing experiences can help others feel less alone. 


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Cha Wilson:


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Cha Wilson Buzzsprout-15871505 Tue, 08 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 4187 grief and light, loss of a partner, loss of a spouse, loss of a boyfriend, grief, creativity, loss, healing, humor, community support, mental health, coping mechanisms, personal growth, emotional resilience 3 52 full true The Five Facets of Healing after loss with Annah Elizabeth The Five Facets of Healing after loss with Annah Elizabeth In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez speaks with Annah Elizabeth, a grief coach and founder of the Five Facets of Healing™. They discuss the complexities of grief, the importance of recognizing personal loss, and the journey of healing. Annah shares her own experiences with loss, including the death of her son and the betrayal of loved ones, and how these events shaped her understanding of grief. The conversation emphasizes that healing is a personal journey, not a destination, and introduces The Five Facets of Healing™ framework, which helps individuals navigate their grief and find hope.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Annah's journey began with the loss of her firstborn son, Gavin.
  • She emphasizes the importance of knowing grief does to have to last a lifetime.
  • Each person's grief experience is unique and should be honored.
  • Healing is a journey, not a destination.
  • Grief and healing can occur simultaneously.
  • Loss, grief, and healing are distinct but interconnected.
  • Recognizing the significance of loss is crucial for healing.
  • The Five Facets of Healing provide a framework for understanding grief.
  • Pain and suffering are distinct; pain can be tended, while suffering can be adjusted.
  • Significant life loss events can impact individuals deeply, regardless of their nature.
  • It's important to honor all forms of loss, not just those associated with death.
  • We are all born with five universal gifts that influence our healing journey.
  • Self-acceptance and agency are crucial in the healing process.
  • Hope is essential; healing is possible for everyone.
  • Connecting with others can provide support and understanding during grief. 


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Annah Elizabeth:


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this episode, host Nina Rodriguez speaks with Annah Elizabeth, a grief coach and founder of the Five Facets of Healing™. They discuss the complexities of grief, the importance of recognizing personal loss, and the journey of healing. Annah shares her own experiences with loss, including the death of her son and the betrayal of loved ones, and how these events shaped her understanding of grief. The conversation emphasizes that healing is a personal journey, not a destination, and introduces The Five Facets of Healing™ framework, which helps individuals navigate their grief and find hope.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Annah's journey began with the loss of her firstborn son, Gavin.
  • She emphasizes the importance of knowing grief does to have to last a lifetime.
  • Each person's grief experience is unique and should be honored.
  • Healing is a journey, not a destination.
  • Grief and healing can occur simultaneously.
  • Loss, grief, and healing are distinct but interconnected.
  • Recognizing the significance of loss is crucial for healing.
  • The Five Facets of Healing provide a framework for understanding grief.
  • Pain and suffering are distinct; pain can be tended, while suffering can be adjusted.
  • Significant life loss events can impact individuals deeply, regardless of their nature.
  • It's important to honor all forms of loss, not just those associated with death.
  • We are all born with five universal gifts that influence our healing journey.
  • Self-acceptance and agency are crucial in the healing process.
  • Hope is essential; healing is possible for everyone.
  • Connecting with others can provide support and understanding during grief. 


***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Annah Elizabeth:


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Annah Elizabeth Buzzsprout-15822513 Tue, 01 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3404 grief, healing, loss, personal journey, hope, emotional well-being, Five Facets of Healing, grief coaching, mental health, divorce, pregnancy loss, loss of a child, child loss, bereaved mother, grief support, sibling loss, grief and healing 3 51 full true 5 Years without You: The Ripple Effect 5 Years without You: The Ripple Effect Host, Nina Rodriguez, reflects on her journey through grief as she commemorates the fifth anniversary of her brother's passing. She shares personal insights on the emotional complexities surrounding grief anniversaries, the importance of creating meaningful rituals, and the impact of her brother's life on her own. Through a poignant reading of the speech she delivered at his memorial, Nina emphasizes the interconnectedness of life and the enduring legacy of love and remembrance.

***
Click here to view on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a personal journey that evolves over time.
  • Creating rituals can help honor the memory of loved ones.
  • Anticipatory grief can often feel more intense than the actual anniversary.
  • It's important to allow oneself to feel emotions without pressure.
  • Milestones in grief can bring unexpected challenges.
  • Finding joy in memories can be a healing process.
  • The impact of a loved one can ripple through many lives.
  • It's okay to not have grand gestures for anniversaries.
  • Connection with nature can provide comfort during grief.
  • Sharing stories keeps the memory of loved ones alive.

***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Host, Nina Rodriguez, reflects on her journey through grief as she commemorates the fifth anniversary of her brother's passing. She shares personal insights on the emotional complexities surrounding grief anniversaries, the importance of creating meaningful rituals, and the impact of her brother's life on her own. Through a poignant reading of the speech she delivered at his memorial, Nina emphasizes the interconnectedness of life and the enduring legacy of love and remembrance.

***
Click here to view on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Grief is a personal journey that evolves over time.
  • Creating rituals can help honor the memory of loved ones.
  • Anticipatory grief can often feel more intense than the actual anniversary.
  • It's important to allow oneself to feel emotions without pressure.
  • Milestones in grief can bring unexpected challenges.
  • Finding joy in memories can be a healing process.
  • The impact of a loved one can ripple through many lives.
  • It's okay to not have grand gestures for anniversaries.
  • Connection with nature can provide comfort during grief.
  • Sharing stories keeps the memory of loved ones alive.

***
Join THE COMMUNITY | A virtual space where we can navigate grief, together.
***

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-15797504 Tue, 24 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1267 grief, grief and light, sibling loss, loss of a sibling, death anniversary, loss of a loved one, bereaved sibling, sibling grief, memorial 3 50 full false THE GRIEF COCOON: Transforming Grief through Creative Expression | Gaby Georges THE GRIEF COCOON: Transforming Grief through Creative Expression | Gaby Georges Multidisciplinary artist, creative grief guide, and podcast host, Gabriela Georges, talks about her journey through loss and how it has shaped her work. She shares the profound influence of her mother, Samira, who passed away shortly after a cancer diagnosis when Gaby was only 20, and how this loss inspired her to create The Grief Cocoon, a podcast and space for individuals to process their grief creatively. This episode explores themes of family dynamics, the impact of grief on personal identity, and the healing power of creative expression, community support, and nature. Gaby emphasizes the value of writing as a tool for self-awareness and learning. She also highlights the importance of embracing life fully, even in the face of loss, and encourages listeners to find ways to honor their loved ones through their creative expression.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Loss can inspire us to live with greater purpose and intention.
  • Creative expression, such as writing and poetry, can be a powerful tool for processing grief.
  • Sharing our stories and experiences of grief can help us feel less alone and provide insights for others.
  • The Grief Cocoon represents the messy and transformative process of grief. Writing can be a powerful tool for self-awareness and learning in the grief journey.
  • Sharing grief with others in a community can provide validation, support, and a sense of not being alone.
  • The Swedish proverb 'grief shared is grief halved' highlights the importance of sharing grief with others.
  • The Grief Cocoon offers various services, including group work, one-on-one sessions, and a mobile app with coping tools.
  • Movement and nature can be therapeutic in processing grief.
  • Exploring and traveling can be ways to honor loved ones and find joy in life after loss.
  • Signs and synchronicities can provide comfort and a sense of connection with loved ones who have passed away.


Connect with Gaby Georges:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Multidisciplinary artist, creative grief guide, and podcast host, Gabriela Georges, talks about her journey through loss and how it has shaped her work. She shares the profound influence of her mother, Samira, who passed away shortly after a cancer diagnosis when Gaby was only 20, and how this loss inspired her to create The Grief Cocoon, a podcast and space for individuals to process their grief creatively. This episode explores themes of family dynamics, the impact of grief on personal identity, and the healing power of creative expression, community support, and nature. Gaby emphasizes the value of writing as a tool for self-awareness and learning. She also highlights the importance of embracing life fully, even in the face of loss, and encourages listeners to find ways to honor their loved ones through their creative expression.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Takeaways:

  • Loss can inspire us to live with greater purpose and intention.
  • Creative expression, such as writing and poetry, can be a powerful tool for processing grief.
  • Sharing our stories and experiences of grief can help us feel less alone and provide insights for others.
  • The Grief Cocoon represents the messy and transformative process of grief. Writing can be a powerful tool for self-awareness and learning in the grief journey.
  • Sharing grief with others in a community can provide validation, support, and a sense of not being alone.
  • The Swedish proverb 'grief shared is grief halved' highlights the importance of sharing grief with others.
  • The Grief Cocoon offers various services, including group work, one-on-one sessions, and a mobile app with coping tools.
  • Movement and nature can be therapeutic in processing grief.
  • Exploring and traveling can be ways to honor loved ones and find joy in life after loss.
  • Signs and synchronicities can provide comfort and a sense of connection with loved ones who have passed away.


Connect with Gaby Georges:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Gaby Georges Buzzsprout-15749624 Mon, 16 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2508 grief, grief podcast, loss of a mother, bereaved daughter, healing through movement, creative expression, bereavement, life after loss, grief talk, living a full life 3 49 full false Bridging the GriefSpan after Losing Her Brother & Parents in Five Years | Moira Khan Bridging the GriefSpan after Losing Her Brother & Parents in Five Years | Moira Khan Join us for a powerful conversation with Moira Khan, a Certified Grief Educator and creator of GriefSpan, an online grief support community. After losing her mother, brother, and father within just five years, Moira faced the immense challenge of being the last remaining member of her immediate family.

***
Click here to watch the video on YouTube
***

In this episode, she reflects on the impact of these losses on her identity and her decision to start anew in Madrid. Moira shares how her grief journey inspired her to become a grief educator, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and honoring the memories of loved ones. Through GriefSpan, she offers one-on-one support, helping others find meaning in their grief.

Tune in as Moira encourages us to lean into our grief, share our stories, and discover the strength in vulnerability.

Takeaways:

  • Grief can be a challenging personal journey, especially when experiencing multiple losses within a short period of time.
  • Leaving loved ones behind when moving to a new country can be difficult, but sometimes taking a chance on oneself is necessary.
  • The loss of immediate family members can redefine one's sense of identity and create a heaviness in carrying forward the family name.
  • Remembering and honoring loved ones through storytelling and rituals is important for keeping their memory alive.
  • Teaching children about grief and allowing them to witness and express emotions is crucial for their emotional development. Allowing oneself to feel and express grief is important for healing.
  • Accepting the loss of loved ones is a journey that takes time and can be up and down.
  • Relating to others who have experienced similar losses can provide comfort and validation.
  • Leaning on others for support and asking for help is crucial in navigating grief.
  • Sharing stories and experiences can help others on their grief journey.


Connect with Moira Khan:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Join us for a powerful conversation with Moira Khan, a Certified Grief Educator and creator of GriefSpan, an online grief support community. After losing her mother, brother, and father within just five years, Moira faced the immense challenge of being the last remaining member of her immediate family.

***
Click here to watch the video on YouTube
***

In this episode, she reflects on the impact of these losses on her identity and her decision to start anew in Madrid. Moira shares how her grief journey inspired her to become a grief educator, emphasizing the importance of community, support, and honoring the memories of loved ones. Through GriefSpan, she offers one-on-one support, helping others find meaning in their grief.

Tune in as Moira encourages us to lean into our grief, share our stories, and discover the strength in vulnerability.

Takeaways:

  • Grief can be a challenging personal journey, especially when experiencing multiple losses within a short period of time.
  • Leaving loved ones behind when moving to a new country can be difficult, but sometimes taking a chance on oneself is necessary.
  • The loss of immediate family members can redefine one's sense of identity and create a heaviness in carrying forward the family name.
  • Remembering and honoring loved ones through storytelling and rituals is important for keeping their memory alive.
  • Teaching children about grief and allowing them to witness and express emotions is crucial for their emotional development. Allowing oneself to feel and express grief is important for healing.
  • Accepting the loss of loved ones is a journey that takes time and can be up and down.
  • Relating to others who have experienced similar losses can provide comfort and validation.
  • Leaning on others for support and asking for help is crucial in navigating grief.
  • Sharing stories and experiences can help others on their grief journey.


Connect with Moira Khan:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Moira Khan Buzzsprout-15626136 Tue, 27 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3627 3 48 full false Always a Sibling: Navigating Sibling Loss | Annie Sklaver Orenstein Always a Sibling: Navigating Sibling Loss | Annie Sklaver Orenstein In this deeply resonant episode, Annie Sklaver Orenstein, the insightful author of 'Always a Sibling: The Forgotten Mourners Guide to Grief,' dives into the often-overlooked experience of sibling grief—a complex journey that’s rarely given the attention it deserves. Annie bravely shares her personal story of losing her brother Ben, a heart-wrenching loss that ignited her passion to create a much-needed resource for bereaved siblings.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Nina and Annie explore the profound impact of sibling relationships on identity and how it shapes the grieving process. They discuss the powerful role of memory-keeping, the struggle to honor one’s own grief while meeting the expectations of others, and the desperate attempts to keep the memory of a lost sibling alive.

The episode also delves into the importance of language in the grieving process, the often unspoken fears around experiencing joy after loss, and the yearning for a physical connection with a sibling who is no longer there.

Takeaways:

  • Sibling grief is a unique experience that is often overshadowed by other types of grief.
  • There is a lack of resources available specifically for grieving siblings.
  • Sibling dynamics play a significant role in shaping identity and can be disrupted by the loss of a sibling.
  • Sibling grief is valid regardless of the closeness or quality of the relationship.
  • Siblings may feel desperate to keep the memory of their lost sibling alive, leading them to take on roles or responsibilities that may not align with their true selves.
  • The relationship between parents and siblings after loss can be complicated, with some siblings feeling unsupported or burdened by their parents' expectations.
  • Siblings experience various forms of grief, including anticipatory grief, traumatic grief, and complicated grief, which can overlap and coexist.
  • Experiencing joy can be terrifying for siblings, as it highlights the absence of their lost sibling and the vulnerability of opening themselves up to love and potential loss again.
  • Having language and an audience to share their grief journey can be empowering and validating for siblings, helping them navigate their grief and find meaning in their loss.
  • The longing for physical connection with the lost sibling, such as hugs, can persist even years after the loss, and it's okay to acknowledge and sit with that sadness.


Related Episode: What the heck is grief anyway?!


Contact Annie Sklave

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this deeply resonant episode, Annie Sklaver Orenstein, the insightful author of 'Always a Sibling: The Forgotten Mourners Guide to Grief,' dives into the often-overlooked experience of sibling grief—a complex journey that’s rarely given the attention it deserves. Annie bravely shares her personal story of losing her brother Ben, a heart-wrenching loss that ignited her passion to create a much-needed resource for bereaved siblings.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Nina and Annie explore the profound impact of sibling relationships on identity and how it shapes the grieving process. They discuss the powerful role of memory-keeping, the struggle to honor one’s own grief while meeting the expectations of others, and the desperate attempts to keep the memory of a lost sibling alive.

The episode also delves into the importance of language in the grieving process, the often unspoken fears around experiencing joy after loss, and the yearning for a physical connection with a sibling who is no longer there.

Takeaways:

  • Sibling grief is a unique experience that is often overshadowed by other types of grief.
  • There is a lack of resources available specifically for grieving siblings.
  • Sibling dynamics play a significant role in shaping identity and can be disrupted by the loss of a sibling.
  • Sibling grief is valid regardless of the closeness or quality of the relationship.
  • Siblings may feel desperate to keep the memory of their lost sibling alive, leading them to take on roles or responsibilities that may not align with their true selves.
  • The relationship between parents and siblings after loss can be complicated, with some siblings feeling unsupported or burdened by their parents' expectations.
  • Siblings experience various forms of grief, including anticipatory grief, traumatic grief, and complicated grief, which can overlap and coexist.
  • Experiencing joy can be terrifying for siblings, as it highlights the absence of their lost sibling and the vulnerability of opening themselves up to love and potential loss again.
  • Having language and an audience to share their grief journey can be empowering and validating for siblings, helping them navigate their grief and find meaning in their loss.
  • The longing for physical connection with the lost sibling, such as hugs, can persist even years after the loss, and it's okay to acknowledge and sit with that sadness.


Related Episode: What the heck is grief anyway?!


Contact Annie Sklave

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Annie Sklaver Orenstein Buzzsprout-15596629 Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3893 grief and light, grief, sibling loss, always a sibling, loss of a sibling, adult sibling loss, loss of a brother, loss of a sister, loss of a twin, bereaved sibling, forgotten mourner, surviving sibling, sibling grief, anticipatory grief 3 47 full true The Healing Power of Grief Dreams with Dr. Joshua Black The Healing Power of Grief Dreams with Dr. Joshua Black Dr. Joshua Black, leading grief and bereavement researcher, speaker, and host of the Grief Dreams Podcast, shares his journey into the field of grief dreams (e.g., dreams of the deceased), and the profound insights they offer into the grieving process and continuing connections beyond death.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Dr. Black also explores the statistics and research findings on grief dreams, highlighting the prevalence of positive dreams and the potential for dream recall to increase the likelihood of having a grief dream. He offers practical tips for increasing dream recall and emphasizes the importance of valuing and exploring dreams.

He discusses the cultural and religious influences on dreams and the importance of interpreting dreams from a different perspective, and emphasizes the need to be open-minded and understand that dreams can have different meanings for different individuals. Dr. Black challenges the negative connotations associated with dreams and highlights the positive impact they can have on post-traumatic growth and faith.

He also explores the concept of continuing bonds and the different types of bonds that individuals form with their deceased loved ones, emphasizing the importance of understanding attachment styles and trauma in relation to continuing bonds. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the power of love, Ram Dass' teachings, and the significance of dreams in connecting with that love.

Additional Takeaways:

  • Increasing dream recall can increase the likelihood of having a grief dream.
  • Positive dreams of the deceased are more common than negative dreams, and can provide comfort and healing.
  • Dreams can be prompted and influenced by valuing and exploring dreams, writing them down, and discussing them with others.
  • Grief dreams can be a source of meaning and connection for those who have lost a loved one. 
  • Negative connotations associated with dreams should be challenged, as dreams can have a positive impact on beliefs and faith.
  • Understanding attachment styles and trauma is crucial in forming continuing bonds with deceased loved ones.
  • Dreams can provide a powerful connection to love and can help individuals process grief and trauma.
  • Interpreting dreams should be a personal and individual process, focusing on the emotions and personal experiences associated with the dream.


Connect with Dr. Black:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Dr. Joshua Black, leading grief and bereavement researcher, speaker, and host of the Grief Dreams Podcast, shares his journey into the field of grief dreams (e.g., dreams of the deceased), and the profound insights they offer into the grieving process and continuing connections beyond death.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

Dr. Black also explores the statistics and research findings on grief dreams, highlighting the prevalence of positive dreams and the potential for dream recall to increase the likelihood of having a grief dream. He offers practical tips for increasing dream recall and emphasizes the importance of valuing and exploring dreams.

He discusses the cultural and religious influences on dreams and the importance of interpreting dreams from a different perspective, and emphasizes the need to be open-minded and understand that dreams can have different meanings for different individuals. Dr. Black challenges the negative connotations associated with dreams and highlights the positive impact they can have on post-traumatic growth and faith.

He also explores the concept of continuing bonds and the different types of bonds that individuals form with their deceased loved ones, emphasizing the importance of understanding attachment styles and trauma in relation to continuing bonds. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the power of love, Ram Dass' teachings, and the significance of dreams in connecting with that love.

Additional Takeaways:

  • Increasing dream recall can increase the likelihood of having a grief dream.
  • Positive dreams of the deceased are more common than negative dreams, and can provide comfort and healing.
  • Dreams can be prompted and influenced by valuing and exploring dreams, writing them down, and discussing them with others.
  • Grief dreams can be a source of meaning and connection for those who have lost a loved one. 
  • Negative connotations associated with dreams should be challenged, as dreams can have a positive impact on beliefs and faith.
  • Understanding attachment styles and trauma is crucial in forming continuing bonds with deceased loved ones.
  • Dreams can provide a powerful connection to love and can help individuals process grief and trauma.
  • Interpreting dreams should be a personal and individual process, focusing on the emotions and personal experiences associated with the dream.


Connect with Dr. Black:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Dr. Joshua Black Buzzsprout-15578614 Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3083 grief, grief dreams, bereavement dreams, dream visitations, signs from spirit, dream research, continuing bonds, ram dass, grief is love, grief and dreams, life after life, life after loss, loss of a loved one, stages of grief, making meaning, dreams 3 46 full false MENDED MAN: Oscar Guerrero on Losing his Son, Post-Traumatic Growth, and Brotherhood MENDED MAN: Oscar Guerrero on Losing his Son, Post-Traumatic Growth, and Brotherhood In this conversation, Oscar 'O.G.' Guerrero shares his story as a father navigating the devastating and sudden loss of his two-year-old son, Ollie, and how he has found a way to channel his grief into helping other men heal from trauma and loss.

***
Watch this episode on YouTube
***

Oscar delves into the immediate challenges and trauma faced after the loss, the process of forgiveness, dreams and encounters with his son, and the transformation of his purpose through coaching and podcasting. He discusses the importance of creating a supportive environment for men to grieve and heal, and how movement and exercise played a crucial role in his own healing process. Oscar also addresses the negative comments and judgment he received, emphasizes the power of forgiveness, and not allowing others' opinions to define his journey.

He shares his mission to help men heal and break generational trauma through the Mended Man Podcast, and through his post-traumatic growth coaching program, the Mended Man Brotherhood.

Support Oscar and Rebecca's nonprofit organization, Ollie's Footprint, to prevent drowning accidents.

Related Podcast Episode: Embracing Life After Loss: A Mother's Story with Rebecca Guerrero

Connect with Oscar Guerrero:


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this conversation, Oscar 'O.G.' Guerrero shares his story as a father navigating the devastating and sudden loss of his two-year-old son, Ollie, and how he has found a way to channel his grief into helping other men heal from trauma and loss.

***
Watch this episode on YouTube
***

Oscar delves into the immediate challenges and trauma faced after the loss, the process of forgiveness, dreams and encounters with his son, and the transformation of his purpose through coaching and podcasting. He discusses the importance of creating a supportive environment for men to grieve and heal, and how movement and exercise played a crucial role in his own healing process. Oscar also addresses the negative comments and judgment he received, emphasizes the power of forgiveness, and not allowing others' opinions to define his journey.

He shares his mission to help men heal and break generational trauma through the Mended Man Podcast, and through his post-traumatic growth coaching program, the Mended Man Brotherhood.

Support Oscar and Rebecca's nonprofit organization, Ollie's Footprint, to prevent drowning accidents.

Related Podcast Episode: Embracing Life After Loss: A Mother's Story with Rebecca Guerrero

Connect with Oscar Guerrero:


Connect with Nina Rodriguez:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Oscar 'O.G.' Guerrero Buzzsprout-15522796 Wed, 07 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3329 grief, bereaved father, loss of a son, grief coach, men's grief support, men grieve too, grief and bereavement, fatherhood, healing, forgiveness, generational trauma, drowning accidents 3 45 full false Margo Fowkes on Losing her son, creating community, and Leading Through Loss at work Margo Fowkes on Losing her son, creating community, and Leading Through Loss at work "The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea.” This quote by Isak Dinesen inspired today’s guest, Margot Fowkes, to create Salt Water, a virtual community where grievers can share their stories and honor their loved ones.

Margo is the founder and president of OnTarget Consulting and author of the award-winning book, LEADING THROUGH LOSS: HOW TO NAVIGATE GRIEF AT WORK, helps leaders create more compassionate workplaces by acknowledging and speaking openly about grief.

***
Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube

***

Margot shares her journey of grief after the death of her son, Jimmy. She discusses Jimmy's resilience during his illness, and the moments that shaped her perspective on motherhood and loss.

Salt Water was founded to honor all types of loss, as a virtual community providing resources and welcoming guest writers to share their experiences.

She delves into the challenges of grief in the workplace—how to support grieving colleagues, navigate work when grieving, handle the death of an employee, and find support in virtual or hybrid work environments.

Takeaways

  • Each person's grief is unique and should be respected and validated.
  • Grief can deepen our understanding of what is truly important in life, and how we want to show up for ourselves and others.
  • Navigating grief as a family requires open communication, understanding, and allowing each person to grieve in their own way.
  • Creating spaces for sharing stories and honoring all types of loss can provide comfort and support for grievers.
  • Grief can impact one's definition of motherhood, and navigating the balance between letting go and stepping in can be challenging.
  • Creating a compassionate culture that recognizes and supports grief and loss is essential in the workplace and in society.
  • Grief at work can have a significant impact on productivity and well-being. It's essential to create a compassionate and supportive culture.
  • Companies can implement simple initiatives to provide support & understanding for grieving employees.


Connect with Margo Fowkes:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> "The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea.” This quote by Isak Dinesen inspired today’s guest, Margot Fowkes, to create Salt Water, a virtual community where grievers can share their stories and honor their loved ones.

Margo is the founder and president of OnTarget Consulting and author of the award-winning book, LEADING THROUGH LOSS: HOW TO NAVIGATE GRIEF AT WORK, helps leaders create more compassionate workplaces by acknowledging and speaking openly about grief.

***
Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube

***

Margot shares her journey of grief after the death of her son, Jimmy. She discusses Jimmy's resilience during his illness, and the moments that shaped her perspective on motherhood and loss.

Salt Water was founded to honor all types of loss, as a virtual community providing resources and welcoming guest writers to share their experiences.

She delves into the challenges of grief in the workplace—how to support grieving colleagues, navigate work when grieving, handle the death of an employee, and find support in virtual or hybrid work environments.

Takeaways

  • Each person's grief is unique and should be respected and validated.
  • Grief can deepen our understanding of what is truly important in life, and how we want to show up for ourselves and others.
  • Navigating grief as a family requires open communication, understanding, and allowing each person to grieve in their own way.
  • Creating spaces for sharing stories and honoring all types of loss can provide comfort and support for grievers.
  • Grief can impact one's definition of motherhood, and navigating the balance between letting go and stepping in can be challenging.
  • Creating a compassionate culture that recognizes and supports grief and loss is essential in the workplace and in society.
  • Grief at work can have a significant impact on productivity and well-being. It's essential to create a compassionate and supportive culture.
  • Companies can implement simple initiatives to provide support & understanding for grieving employees.


Connect with Margo Fowkes:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Margo Fowkes Buzzsprout-15488039 Tue, 30 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3636 grief, loss of a son, bereaved mother, loss of a child, brain cancer, grief at work, virtual community, grief support, grief community, grief author, grief podcast, grief talk, grief expert, grief consultant, life after loss 3 44 full false Is Joy Possible After Loss? Is Joy Possible After Loss? How can we unlock joy after loss? 

This episode explores the possibility of experiencing joy after loss and provides guidance on incorporating self-compassion and joy into the grieving process. It emphasizes the importance of honoring each moment, leaning into curiosity, and rewarding the questions that arise. Nina shares tips for cultivating joy, such as setting reminders for gratitude and using mantras, and discusses the complexities of feeling joy after loss, including guilt, betrayal, and the recognition of all the things the loved one will never experience.

Join us as we discuss grounding techniques, reducing stress, and adding gentleness and lightness to daily life. This episode is a compassionate guide for anyone navigating the delicate balance of grief and joy.

***

Watch the Video on YouTube

***


Takeaways :

  • Experiencing joy after loss is possible and a sign of readiness for the next step forward in the grieving process. 
  • Honoring each moment and leaning into curiosity can help incorporate self-compassion and joy into the grieving process. 
  • Setting reminders to practice gratitude and affirmations can create an anchor for joy and make it safe to feel joy again. 
  • Feeling joy after loss can be complex and may involve fear, guilt, and a sense of betrayal, but it is still possible and can evolve over time. 
  • Finding one's own path to joy and embracing the fullness of the grief experience is important. 
  • Feeling joy after loss can be complex, involving feelings of guilt, betrayal, and sadness.
  • Creating a sense of community and support is essential in the journey towards joy after loss. 
  • Letting light and joy into one's life slowly and gently can help navigate the vulnerability and risks associated with feeling joy after loss. 
  • Grounding oneself, reducing stress, and adding gentleness and lightness to daily life can contribute to the experience of joy after loss. 


About Nina Rodriguez: 

Nina is founder and host of the Grief and Light Podcast, created after the unexpected loss of her only sibling, as an authentic exploration of grief and life after loss. Through each conversation, she aims to give a voice to the griever’s experience, and foster a more grief-informed, hopeful world. 

Beyond the podcast, Nina extends her heart-centered support through monthly circles, personalized mentorship, speaking engagements, active presence on social media, and forthcoming in-person retreats. 

She regularly contributes to Get Griefy Magazine and has completed the Grief Care Professional Certificate Program under renowned psychotherapist and best-selling author, Megan Devine. 


Let's connect!

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> How can we unlock joy after loss? 

This episode explores the possibility of experiencing joy after loss and provides guidance on incorporating self-compassion and joy into the grieving process. It emphasizes the importance of honoring each moment, leaning into curiosity, and rewarding the questions that arise. Nina shares tips for cultivating joy, such as setting reminders for gratitude and using mantras, and discusses the complexities of feeling joy after loss, including guilt, betrayal, and the recognition of all the things the loved one will never experience.

Join us as we discuss grounding techniques, reducing stress, and adding gentleness and lightness to daily life. This episode is a compassionate guide for anyone navigating the delicate balance of grief and joy.

***

Watch the Video on YouTube

***


Takeaways :

  • Experiencing joy after loss is possible and a sign of readiness for the next step forward in the grieving process. 
  • Honoring each moment and leaning into curiosity can help incorporate self-compassion and joy into the grieving process. 
  • Setting reminders to practice gratitude and affirmations can create an anchor for joy and make it safe to feel joy again. 
  • Feeling joy after loss can be complex and may involve fear, guilt, and a sense of betrayal, but it is still possible and can evolve over time. 
  • Finding one's own path to joy and embracing the fullness of the grief experience is important. 
  • Feeling joy after loss can be complex, involving feelings of guilt, betrayal, and sadness.
  • Creating a sense of community and support is essential in the journey towards joy after loss. 
  • Letting light and joy into one's life slowly and gently can help navigate the vulnerability and risks associated with feeling joy after loss. 
  • Grounding oneself, reducing stress, and adding gentleness and lightness to daily life can contribute to the experience of joy after loss. 


About Nina Rodriguez: 

Nina is founder and host of the Grief and Light Podcast, created after the unexpected loss of her only sibling, as an authentic exploration of grief and life after loss. Through each conversation, she aims to give a voice to the griever’s experience, and foster a more grief-informed, hopeful world. 

Beyond the podcast, Nina extends her heart-centered support through monthly circles, personalized mentorship, speaking engagements, active presence on social media, and forthcoming in-person retreats. 

She regularly contributes to Get Griefy Magazine and has completed the Grief Care Professional Certificate Program under renowned psychotherapist and best-selling author, Megan Devine. 


Let's connect!

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-15443192 Mon, 22 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1386 3 43 full false Start Where You Are: Megan Gluth-Bohan's transformation from struggle to success Start Where You Are: Megan Gluth-Bohan's transformation from struggle to success Megan Gluth-Bohan's path to success has been anything but a straight line, shaped by her challenging upbringing and personal struggles. Growing up in rural Iowa below the poverty line, Megan faced dysfunction, trauma, and difficult circumstances. She struggled with alcohol and drug use, which led to her getting kicked out of college. However, she eventually turned her life around, went back to college, and graduated with a degree in history. Megan's journey continued with law school, where she faced the devastating loss of her first wife to ovarian cancer. This led her down a path of grief and self-destruction, but she eventually found hope and healing in the Pacific Northwest. She met her second wife and started to rebuild her life, eventually becoming the CEO of a company in Seattle. Megan Gluth-Bohan shares her journey of overcoming addiction and building a successful career as a CEO. After getting sober, she took a job as a lawyer and eventually became the president and CEO of a chemical company. She bought the company from her boss and navigated the challenges of leading a business through a global pandemic. Megan emphasizes the importance of self-accountability, personal discipline, and taking care of oneself as a leader. She believes in human-centered capitalism and values the humanity and grit in each person. Megan encourages others to keep going and shares her contact information for further connection.

***

Click Here to Watch on YouTube

***


Takeaways:

  • Success is possible even when starting from challenging circumstances
  • Grief and loss can lead to self-destructive behaviors, and they can become your starting point
  • Finding hope and healing takes time and gradual progress
  • Support from loved ones and community is crucial in overcoming challenges
  • Moving to a new environment can provide a fresh start and opportunities for growth 
  • Self-accountability and personal discipline are important qualities for leaders
  • Human-centered capitalism values the humanity and potential in each person
  • Sharing personal stories and experiences can inspire and support others
  • It's important to keep going and not give up, even in the face of challenges


Megan Gluth-Bohan's Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Megan Gluth-Bohan's path to success has been anything but a straight line, shaped by her challenging upbringing and personal struggles. Growing up in rural Iowa below the poverty line, Megan faced dysfunction, trauma, and difficult circumstances. She struggled with alcohol and drug use, which led to her getting kicked out of college. However, she eventually turned her life around, went back to college, and graduated with a degree in history. Megan's journey continued with law school, where she faced the devastating loss of her first wife to ovarian cancer. This led her down a path of grief and self-destruction, but she eventually found hope and healing in the Pacific Northwest. She met her second wife and started to rebuild her life, eventually becoming the CEO of a company in Seattle. Megan Gluth-Bohan shares her journey of overcoming addiction and building a successful career as a CEO. After getting sober, she took a job as a lawyer and eventually became the president and CEO of a chemical company. She bought the company from her boss and navigated the challenges of leading a business through a global pandemic. Megan emphasizes the importance of self-accountability, personal discipline, and taking care of oneself as a leader. She believes in human-centered capitalism and values the humanity and grit in each person. Megan encourages others to keep going and shares her contact information for further connection.

***

Click Here to Watch on YouTube

***


Takeaways:

  • Success is possible even when starting from challenging circumstances
  • Grief and loss can lead to self-destructive behaviors, and they can become your starting point
  • Finding hope and healing takes time and gradual progress
  • Support from loved ones and community is crucial in overcoming challenges
  • Moving to a new environment can provide a fresh start and opportunities for growth 
  • Self-accountability and personal discipline are important qualities for leaders
  • Human-centered capitalism values the humanity and potential in each person
  • Sharing personal stories and experiences can inspire and support others
  • It's important to keep going and not give up, even in the face of challenges


Megan Gluth-Bohan's Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Megan Gluth-Bohan Buzzsprout-15417221 Tue, 16 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3010 grief and light, recovery, resilience, addiction, personal growth, women in business, human-centered capitalism, grief, loss of a spouse, loss of a wife, widowed, grief and loss, loss of a loved one, grief stories, 3 42 full true TENDING GRIEF: The healing power of care in community with Camille Sapara Barton TENDING GRIEF: The healing power of care in community with Camille Sapara Barton Camille Sapara Barton, author of 'Tending Grief, Embodied Rituals for Holding Our Sorrow and Growing Cultures of Caring Community,' discusses the importance of tending to grief and creating communal spaces for grief.

They emphasize the need to process grief through the body, and draw inspiration from the grief rituals of the Dagara people, who see grief as a generative force that supports the well-being of the community. They also highlight the significance of incorporating joy and pleasure into social movements, and the importance of creating spaces for the full range of emotions.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways

  • Unprocessed emotions can impact our ability to collaborate with others.
  • Tending grief can help build trust and create communal spaces.
  • The Dagara people view grief as a generative force and hold regular grief rituals for the health of the community.
  • Processing grief through the body is important for behavior and internal change.
  • Creating intentional spaces for communal grief tending can foster connection and empathy.
  • Collective grief work has the potential to bring about transformative change. The resilience toolkit and the GenGrief toolkit are embodied frameworks for navigating stress and grief.
  • Safety and facilitation are crucial when practicing these tools in group settings.
  • Dance and movement can be powerful tools for processing emotions and connecting to ancestral wisdom.
  • Incorporating joy and pleasure in social movements is essential for sustainability and longevity.
  • Tending to personal and collective grief can lead to a more beautiful and interconnected future.


Camille Sapara Barton Social & Websites


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website


Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Camille Sapara Barton, author of 'Tending Grief, Embodied Rituals for Holding Our Sorrow and Growing Cultures of Caring Community,' discusses the importance of tending to grief and creating communal spaces for grief.

They emphasize the need to process grief through the body, and draw inspiration from the grief rituals of the Dagara people, who see grief as a generative force that supports the well-being of the community. They also highlight the significance of incorporating joy and pleasure into social movements, and the importance of creating spaces for the full range of emotions.

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways

  • Unprocessed emotions can impact our ability to collaborate with others.
  • Tending grief can help build trust and create communal spaces.
  • The Dagara people view grief as a generative force and hold regular grief rituals for the health of the community.
  • Processing grief through the body is important for behavior and internal change.
  • Creating intentional spaces for communal grief tending can foster connection and empathy.
  • Collective grief work has the potential to bring about transformative change. The resilience toolkit and the GenGrief toolkit are embodied frameworks for navigating stress and grief.
  • Safety and facilitation are crucial when practicing these tools in group settings.
  • Dance and movement can be powerful tools for processing emotions and connecting to ancestral wisdom.
  • Incorporating joy and pleasure in social movements is essential for sustainability and longevity.
  • Tending to personal and collective grief can lead to a more beautiful and interconnected future.


Camille Sapara Barton Social & Websites


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website


Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Camille Sapara Barton Buzzsprout-15380751 Wed, 10 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2521 grief and light, grief tending, tending grief, communal grief, grief rituals, grief, grief practices, resilience toolkit, resilience, dance and grief, grief community, grief support, grief coaching, grief author, grief book, embodied rituals, social movem 3 41 full false Grief and Resilience: Tools for 'Bouncing Forward' after Loss with Blair Kaplan Venables Grief and Resilience: Tools for 'Bouncing Forward' after Loss with Blair Kaplan Venables In this conversation, Blair Kaplan Venables, a grief and resilience expert, shares her personal journey of resilience and how she turned her pain into purpose after experiencing multiple losses, including the loss of both parents and a pregnancy. She discusses the concept of resilience and defines it as 'bouncing forward' from a challenging experience.

Blair also introduces the Navigating Grief Framework, which consists of five tools she developed to help others navigate their own healing process. She emphasizes the importance of strengthening the resilience muscle and highlights the role of community and rituals in the grief process.

ABOUT BLAIR:

Blair is a grief and resilience expert, and the Founder of The Global Resilience Project. Her expertise has been featured in media outlets, including Forbes, CBC Radio, Entrepreneur, and Thrive Global.

She is the host of the Radical Resilience podcast, a motivational speaker and bestselling author, specializing in helping people strengthen their resilience muscle, and guiding grieving high-performers with her 'Navigating Grief Framework'.

USA Today listed Blair as one of the top 10 conscious female leaders to watch. The International Association of Top Professionals named her "Top Grief and Resilience Expert of the Year" in 2024.

Her life story will be showcased on a new show called “My Story” airing on Apple TV+. And she is on a mission to change lives and spark transformation, with a goal of empowering 88 million people by August 2025.


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this conversation, Blair Kaplan Venables, a grief and resilience expert, shares her personal journey of resilience and how she turned her pain into purpose after experiencing multiple losses, including the loss of both parents and a pregnancy. She discusses the concept of resilience and defines it as 'bouncing forward' from a challenging experience.

Blair also introduces the Navigating Grief Framework, which consists of five tools she developed to help others navigate their own healing process. She emphasizes the importance of strengthening the resilience muscle and highlights the role of community and rituals in the grief process.

ABOUT BLAIR:

Blair is a grief and resilience expert, and the Founder of The Global Resilience Project. Her expertise has been featured in media outlets, including Forbes, CBC Radio, Entrepreneur, and Thrive Global.

She is the host of the Radical Resilience podcast, a motivational speaker and bestselling author, specializing in helping people strengthen their resilience muscle, and guiding grieving high-performers with her 'Navigating Grief Framework'.

USA Today listed Blair as one of the top 10 conscious female leaders to watch. The International Association of Top Professionals named her "Top Grief and Resilience Expert of the Year" in 2024.

Her life story will be showcased on a new show called “My Story” airing on Apple TV+. And she is on a mission to change lives and spark transformation, with a goal of empowering 88 million people by August 2025.


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Blair Kaplan Venables Buzzsprout-15299557 Tue, 25 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3254 grief and light, resilience, loss of a parent, loss of a loved one, pregnancy loss, navigating grief, grief, self care, personal journey, healing, life after loss, resilience muscle 3 40 full false The First Five Years of Grief | Season 3 Premiere The First Five Years of Grief | Season 3 Premiere The first five years of grief:

  • Year One: Shock and Fog
  • Year Two: Year of Permanence
  • Year Three: The Year of Inflammation and New Normals
  • Year Four: The Pivot Year
  • Year Five: The Year of Rebirth


In this episode, Nina Rodriguez reflects on the first five years of her grief journey after the loss of her brother. She shares the different stages and experiences she went through, and discusses the importance of allowing grief to unfold in its own time, and the physical impact it can have on the body. Nina also emphasizes the need for self-care and finding joy amidst grief. The episode concludes with a preview of what to expect in the upcoming season of the podcast.

Takeaways

  • Grief is a journey that unfolds in its own time and can be different for everyone.
  • The first five years of grief can be characterized by different stages and experiences.
  • Allowing grief to be felt and processed is important for healing.
  • Grief can have physical effects on the body, and self-care is crucial.
  • Finding joy and embracing new normals can be part of the grief journey.
  • Sharing stories and experiences can create a more grief-informed and supportive world.


Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
09:51 Reflecting on the First Five Years of Grief
11:44 Year One: Shock and Fog
16:55 Year Two: Year of Permanence
21:12 Year Three: The Year of Inflammation and New Normals
23:16 Year Four: The Pivot Year
26:06 Year Five: The Year of Rebirth
30:44 Preview of Season Three

Related Episodes


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> The first five years of grief:

  • Year One: Shock and Fog
  • Year Two: Year of Permanence
  • Year Three: The Year of Inflammation and New Normals
  • Year Four: The Pivot Year
  • Year Five: The Year of Rebirth


In this episode, Nina Rodriguez reflects on the first five years of her grief journey after the loss of her brother. She shares the different stages and experiences she went through, and discusses the importance of allowing grief to unfold in its own time, and the physical impact it can have on the body. Nina also emphasizes the need for self-care and finding joy amidst grief. The episode concludes with a preview of what to expect in the upcoming season of the podcast.

Takeaways

  • Grief is a journey that unfolds in its own time and can be different for everyone.
  • The first five years of grief can be characterized by different stages and experiences.
  • Allowing grief to be felt and processed is important for healing.
  • Grief can have physical effects on the body, and self-care is crucial.
  • Finding joy and embracing new normals can be part of the grief journey.
  • Sharing stories and experiences can create a more grief-informed and supportive world.


Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
09:51 Reflecting on the First Five Years of Grief
11:44 Year One: Shock and Fog
16:55 Year Two: Year of Permanence
21:12 Year Three: The Year of Inflammation and New Normals
23:16 Year Four: The Pivot Year
26:06 Year Five: The Year of Rebirth
30:44 Preview of Season Three

Related Episodes


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-15248065 Thu, 20 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1924 grief and light, first year of grief, second year of grief, first five years of grief, grief journey, grievers, stages of grief, grief coach, grief support, grief 3 39 full false Compassionate Leadership: On a mission to build compassionate organizations | Janet Gwilliam-Wright's Story Compassionate Leadership: On a mission to build compassionate organizations | Janet Gwilliam-Wright's Story Janet Gwilliam-Wright , a grief awareness advocate and educator, shares her personal experience of losing her mother and how it shaped her life.

She launched the Mother Love Project as a platform for motherless daughters to share their stories, and co-founded Bloomwell Partners, a global training and consulting firm working to build more compassionate and grief-informed workspaces.

In this conversation, Janet discusses the importance of honoring and remembering our loved ones, the complexities of grief, and the need for support and understanding in the workplace.

Janet also shares the two main aspects of her work: consulting and training.

She helps organizations build grief-informed cultures through policies and practices, and provides grief education and training for managers and leaders. The training includes workshops and webinars, and focuses on a six-part framework with monthly coaching calls.

Janet emphasizes the importance of addressing various types of grief, including those not related to death. She also highlights the impact of grief-informed practices on employee retention, recruitment, and overall well-being.

Takeaways

  • Grief is complex and nuanced, and it is important to allow ourselves to feel all of the emotions that come with it.
  • Support and community are crucial in the grieving process, and connecting with others who have had similar experiences can be incredibly healing.
  • The workplace often lacks understanding and support for grieving employees, and there is a need for more compassionate and grief-informed workspaces.
  • Managers and leaders play a key role in supporting grieving employees, and training and resources should be provided to help them navigate these situations.
  • Grief-informed cultures can be built through policies and practices in organizations.
  • Grief education and training for managers and leaders is crucial.
  • Different types of grief, beyond the loss of a person, should be addressed.
  • Grief-informed practices can improve employee retention, recruitment, and overall well-being.
  • Supporting employees through grief and loss not only benefits individuals, but also creates more compassionate and engaged workplaces and communities.


Janet GWilliam Wright's Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Janet Gwilliam-Wright , a grief awareness advocate and educator, shares her personal experience of losing her mother and how it shaped her life.

She launched the Mother Love Project as a platform for motherless daughters to share their stories, and co-founded Bloomwell Partners, a global training and consulting firm working to build more compassionate and grief-informed workspaces.

In this conversation, Janet discusses the importance of honoring and remembering our loved ones, the complexities of grief, and the need for support and understanding in the workplace.

Janet also shares the two main aspects of her work: consulting and training.

She helps organizations build grief-informed cultures through policies and practices, and provides grief education and training for managers and leaders. The training includes workshops and webinars, and focuses on a six-part framework with monthly coaching calls.

Janet emphasizes the importance of addressing various types of grief, including those not related to death. She also highlights the impact of grief-informed practices on employee retention, recruitment, and overall well-being.

Takeaways

  • Grief is complex and nuanced, and it is important to allow ourselves to feel all of the emotions that come with it.
  • Support and community are crucial in the grieving process, and connecting with others who have had similar experiences can be incredibly healing.
  • The workplace often lacks understanding and support for grieving employees, and there is a need for more compassionate and grief-informed workspaces.
  • Managers and leaders play a key role in supporting grieving employees, and training and resources should be provided to help them navigate these situations.
  • Grief-informed cultures can be built through policies and practices in organizations.
  • Grief education and training for managers and leaders is crucial.
  • Different types of grief, beyond the loss of a person, should be addressed.
  • Grief-informed practices can improve employee retention, recruitment, and overall well-being.
  • Supporting employees through grief and loss not only benefits individuals, but also creates more compassionate and engaged workplaces and communities.


Janet GWilliam Wright's Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Janet Gwilliam-Wright Buzzsprout-14965642 Tue, 07 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2865 loss, mother loss, breast cancer, emotional preparation, communication, mental health, therapy, Motherlove Project, Bloomwell Partners, personal growth, emotions, grief support, community, workplace, grief-informed 2 38 full false Soulful Sorrow: A Holistic Approach to Healing after Pregnancy Loss | Lauren "Lolo" Paz Soulful Sorrow: A Holistic Approach to Healing after Pregnancy Loss | Lauren "Lolo" Paz Lauren "Lolo" Paz, founder of A Soulful Sorrow, discusses the profound journey of grief and finding healing, meaning, and spiritual reconnection after pregnancy loss.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

She highlights the lack of resources and support for women navigating this complex terrain, and emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to healing, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of grief.

Lolo delves into the challenges of shame and guilt often associated with pregnancy loss, advocating for validation and permission to grieve. Nina and Lolo explore the power of therapy, somatic practices, nature, and rituals in the healing process, underscoring the transformative impact of community and support in navigating the journey of grief with compassion and resilience.

Takeaways:

  • Pregnancy loss is a deeply complex and emotional experience that often lacks resources and support.
  • Women need validation and permission to acknowledge and process their grief after pregnancy loss.
  • The physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of pregnancy loss can challenge a woman's identity and sense of worth.
  • A holistic approach to healing, including therapy, mind-body practices, and self-care, is essential for navigating the grief journey.
  • There is a need for frameworks and tools to help women honor their grief, find meaning, and integrate their loss into their lives. 
  • Grief is a lifelong companion that should be embraced and learned from, rather than overcome.
  • Creating a safe space to acknowledge and process grief is essential for healing.
  • Nature can be a powerful source of healing and support in the grieving process.
  • Rituals and ceremonies can provide meaning and help honor lost babies.
  • Community and support are crucial in navigating the complexities of grief.


Lauren Paz's Social & Websites:


Referenced in Episode:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Lauren "Lolo" Paz, founder of A Soulful Sorrow, discusses the profound journey of grief and finding healing, meaning, and spiritual reconnection after pregnancy loss.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

She highlights the lack of resources and support for women navigating this complex terrain, and emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to healing, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of grief.

Lolo delves into the challenges of shame and guilt often associated with pregnancy loss, advocating for validation and permission to grieve. Nina and Lolo explore the power of therapy, somatic practices, nature, and rituals in the healing process, underscoring the transformative impact of community and support in navigating the journey of grief with compassion and resilience.

Takeaways:

  • Pregnancy loss is a deeply complex and emotional experience that often lacks resources and support.
  • Women need validation and permission to acknowledge and process their grief after pregnancy loss.
  • The physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of pregnancy loss can challenge a woman's identity and sense of worth.
  • A holistic approach to healing, including therapy, mind-body practices, and self-care, is essential for navigating the grief journey.
  • There is a need for frameworks and tools to help women honor their grief, find meaning, and integrate their loss into their lives. 
  • Grief is a lifelong companion that should be embraced and learned from, rather than overcome.
  • Creating a safe space to acknowledge and process grief is essential for healing.
  • Nature can be a powerful source of healing and support in the grieving process.
  • Rituals and ceremonies can provide meaning and help honor lost babies.
  • Community and support are crucial in navigating the complexities of grief.


Lauren Paz's Social & Websites:


Referenced in Episode:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Lauren "Lolo" Paz Buzzsprout-14977673 Wed, 01 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400 3259 pregnancy loss, support, validation, holistic approach, shame, guilt, frameworks, pregnancy loss, grief, healing, therapy, somatic practices, nature, rituals, ceremonies, community, support, grief and light, motherhood, bereavement 2 37 full false LOVE, LOSS & LOL: Finding the gifts in the midst of life’s sh*t with Lindsey Kane Leaverton LOVE, LOSS & LOL: Finding the gifts in the midst of life’s sh*t with Lindsey Kane Leaverton “Not everything happens for a reason, but sacred gifts MAY be found in everything that happens – even (and especially) in the most painful things.”  – Not Another Self-Help Book

That’s a quote from the newly published Amazon best-seller titled, "Not Another Self-Help Book: Finding Gifts in the Midst of Life's Sh*t," by guest, Lindsey Kane Leaverton,  who bravely shares her personal journey through grief, loss, and trauma, navigating life's challenges with resilience and humor.

A multifaceted individual, Lindsey serves as the director of wealth management at a boutique financial planning firm in Austin. 

She has seven recorded albums under her belt, is a self-taught guitarist and vocalist, a mother of three, an Amazon best-selling author, and has been featured on The Today Show, The New York Times, People Magazine, and TIME.

Beyond her professional pursuits, she has a strong sense of faith, a vibrant personality, and not-so-secretly dreams of pursuing a career as a stand-up comedian someday. 

In this candid episode, we delve into various pivotal moments that shaped Lindsey's life and personal story, including undergoing conversion therapy, reconciling her faith and lived reality within a conservative religious community, experiencing various traumas, losses, and finding the little miracles and hope in life's most challenging moments.

Lindsey Kane Leaverton's Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> “Not everything happens for a reason, but sacred gifts MAY be found in everything that happens – even (and especially) in the most painful things.”  – Not Another Self-Help Book

That’s a quote from the newly published Amazon best-seller titled, "Not Another Self-Help Book: Finding Gifts in the Midst of Life's Sh*t," by guest, Lindsey Kane Leaverton,  who bravely shares her personal journey through grief, loss, and trauma, navigating life's challenges with resilience and humor.

A multifaceted individual, Lindsey serves as the director of wealth management at a boutique financial planning firm in Austin. 

She has seven recorded albums under her belt, is a self-taught guitarist and vocalist, a mother of three, an Amazon best-selling author, and has been featured on The Today Show, The New York Times, People Magazine, and TIME.

Beyond her professional pursuits, she has a strong sense of faith, a vibrant personality, and not-so-secretly dreams of pursuing a career as a stand-up comedian someday. 

In this candid episode, we delve into various pivotal moments that shaped Lindsey's life and personal story, including undergoing conversion therapy, reconciling her faith and lived reality within a conservative religious community, experiencing various traumas, losses, and finding the little miracles and hope in life's most challenging moments.

Lindsey Kane Leaverton's Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
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]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Lindsey Kane Leaverton Buzzsprout-14867600 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2954 grief and light, grief, trauma, spirituality, faith, religious trauma, LGBTQ, grief author, self help, not another self help book 2 35 full true LOVE AND GRIEF: How Emily P. Bingham learned to MoveTHRU grief as a young widow LOVE AND GRIEF: How Emily P. Bingham learned to MoveTHRU grief as a young widow What role does movement play in grief?

Emily P. Bingham is a certified grief educator, grief coach, widow, and founder of moveTHRU, which she created after the loss of her husband, Ian, in 2019 to Uveal Melanoma.

moveTHRU was born as a way to create new meaning out of her tragedy by helping others heal.

Her book -- LOVE AND GRIEF: Find Healing, Meaning & Purpose in Life After Loss -- teaches readers how to survive early grief, how to find meaning and purpose as you grow from this experience, and how to rebuild a life where you ultimately thrive.

Emily has worked with hundreds of clients in both private and coaching groups. Additionally, she has reached millions of followers through her social media content.

Her goal is to help anyone who has experienced a loss embrace grief through movement and mindset.

In this open conversation, Emily shares her journey from caretaker of her beloved husband Ian, to newly bereaved widow and mother of two under the age of 3, to how she rebuilt her life helping others, and how she's ultimately thriving through grief and love.

Her story is ultimately one of resilience, surrendering, and deeply understanding that "nothing is ever lost".

Emily P. Bingham's Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Episodes of topics referenced in this episode:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

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]]> What role does movement play in grief?

Emily P. Bingham is a certified grief educator, grief coach, widow, and founder of moveTHRU, which she created after the loss of her husband, Ian, in 2019 to Uveal Melanoma.

moveTHRU was born as a way to create new meaning out of her tragedy by helping others heal.

Her book -- LOVE AND GRIEF: Find Healing, Meaning & Purpose in Life After Loss -- teaches readers how to survive early grief, how to find meaning and purpose as you grow from this experience, and how to rebuild a life where you ultimately thrive.

Emily has worked with hundreds of clients in both private and coaching groups. Additionally, she has reached millions of followers through her social media content.

Her goal is to help anyone who has experienced a loss embrace grief through movement and mindset.

In this open conversation, Emily shares her journey from caretaker of her beloved husband Ian, to newly bereaved widow and mother of two under the age of 3, to how she rebuilt her life helping others, and how she's ultimately thriving through grief and love.

Her story is ultimately one of resilience, surrendering, and deeply understanding that "nothing is ever lost".

Emily P. Bingham's Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Episodes of topics referenced in this episode:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Emily P Bingham Buzzsprout-14852212 Tue, 09 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2762 grief and light, grief, love and grief, widow, uveal melanoma, loss of a husband, loss of a spouse, widowed, grieving wife, bereaved widow, stages of grief, loss of a loved one, bereavement, grief, nervous system regulation, somatic exercise, movethru met 2 34 full true "To Kera - Love, Mom" | Getting Griefy and Leaving No Legacy Behind with Kera Sanchez "To Kera - Love, Mom" | Getting Griefy and Leaving No Legacy Behind with Kera Sanchez In this episode, we deep dive into the reality of experiencing life's duality in its fullness as guest, Kera Sanchez, experienced both the birth of her daughter and the unexpected loss of her mother only a few days apart.

She shares how her grief left her with no choice but to turn "lemons into lemonade" as she learned to navigate loss and joy through the power of dark humor and community.

Kera channeled her love for her mother through her creative gifts, creating legacy journals, a first-of-its-kind magazine for grievers, and a welcoming space for all through her social media channels.

Kera Sanchez is a High School Spanish teacher in the Chicago area, a wife, and mom of two. After her mom unexpectedly died while on vacation in Italy at the age of 57, she dove deep into a grief journey, where she channeled her unexpressed love in the form of the Legacy Letters guided journal, offering a way to write and leave handwritten legacies of love, advice, and support for loved ones, to ensure families all over the world don't have to face unexpected loss without a legacy left behind. She also released a second journal, "No Legacy Lost", a guided memory and grief journal. Through her Instagram community, she pokes fun at her grief journey with relatable memes and dark humor. In early 2024, she launched Get Griefy Magazine, as a community outlet for grievers to publish their poetry, writing, art, photography, and more.
 

Kera Sanchez Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this episode, we deep dive into the reality of experiencing life's duality in its fullness as guest, Kera Sanchez, experienced both the birth of her daughter and the unexpected loss of her mother only a few days apart.

She shares how her grief left her with no choice but to turn "lemons into lemonade" as she learned to navigate loss and joy through the power of dark humor and community.

Kera channeled her love for her mother through her creative gifts, creating legacy journals, a first-of-its-kind magazine for grievers, and a welcoming space for all through her social media channels.

Kera Sanchez is a High School Spanish teacher in the Chicago area, a wife, and mom of two. After her mom unexpectedly died while on vacation in Italy at the age of 57, she dove deep into a grief journey, where she channeled her unexpressed love in the form of the Legacy Letters guided journal, offering a way to write and leave handwritten legacies of love, advice, and support for loved ones, to ensure families all over the world don't have to face unexpected loss without a legacy left behind. She also released a second journal, "No Legacy Lost", a guided memory and grief journal. Through her Instagram community, she pokes fun at her grief journey with relatable memes and dark humor. In early 2024, she launched Get Griefy Magazine, as a community outlet for grievers to publish their poetry, writing, art, photography, and more.
 

Kera Sanchez Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

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]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Kera Sanchez Buzzsprout-14810181 Tue, 02 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400 2640 grief and light, grief, get griefy, legacy journals, loss of a mother, loss of a parent, bereaved daughter, grief and motherhood, stages of grief, grief community, grief support, journaling, motherhood and grief 2 33 full false The Alchemy of E-Motion: Navigating Sibling Loss and Trauma Through Movement and Intuition with Eileen Kielty The Alchemy of E-Motion: Navigating Sibling Loss and Trauma Through Movement and Intuition with Eileen Kielty Trigger Warning: Discussion of sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised.

What role does creative expression play in navigating the complexities of grief?

Eileen Kielty, founder of Kaia Evolutions,  a culmination of her life’s work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in June of 2019.

She has degrees in both dance and psychology, as well as extensive training in somatic integration, embodiment and intimacy practices, and is passionate about consent-driven spaces with an emphasis on social justice.

She recognizes the importance of illuminating the darker, often hidden, parts of the human experience through sharing openly and authentically, as we’re not meant to do this alone. Eileen believes in the power of creative expression and its ability to reveal the unspoken language of being alive; that the body always knows, and that movement is our direct connection to our deepest truth.

In this candid episode, Eileen shares her perspective and experience as a surviving sibling, and trauma survivor, as well as how the creative expression of dance and movement has helped her and her clients navigate some of life's biggest challenges.


Eileen Kielty's Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Trigger Warning: Discussion of sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised.

What role does creative expression play in navigating the complexities of grief?

Eileen Kielty, founder of Kaia Evolutions,  a culmination of her life’s work and a love letter to her sister, Katie, who died by suicide in June of 2019.

She has degrees in both dance and psychology, as well as extensive training in somatic integration, embodiment and intimacy practices, and is passionate about consent-driven spaces with an emphasis on social justice.

She recognizes the importance of illuminating the darker, often hidden, parts of the human experience through sharing openly and authentically, as we’re not meant to do this alone. Eileen believes in the power of creative expression and its ability to reveal the unspoken language of being alive; that the body always knows, and that movement is our direct connection to our deepest truth.

In this candid episode, Eileen shares her perspective and experience as a surviving sibling, and trauma survivor, as well as how the creative expression of dance and movement has helped her and her clients navigate some of life's biggest challenges.


Eileen Kielty's Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Eileen Kielty Buzzsprout-14768001 Wed, 27 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400 4672 Grief and light, grief, sibling loss, loss of a sister, mental health, stages of grief, life after loss, surviving siblings, dance, alchemy, spirituality, nervous system regulation, somatic, trauma, eating disorder 2 32 full true Eileen Kielty Nina Rodriguez GRIEVING ROOM: Sibling loss, imperfect goodbyes and making space for grief with Leanne Friesen GRIEVING ROOM: Sibling loss, imperfect goodbyes and making space for grief with Leanne Friesen “Grieving room is endangered in a culture that thinks it is more helpful to rush past grief than to lean into it.”

Leanne Friesen is the brilliant soul behind the groundbreaking book, "Grieving Room: Making Space for All the Hard Things After Death and Loss."

As the curator of the popular Instagram platform, @grieving.room, she has cultivated a nurturing space for those navigating the tumultuous waters of grief.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

With a profound understanding that grief defies easy solutions, Leanne advocates for the power of creating room for the complexities of grief, rather than rushing to fix or diminish it.

Drawing upon her extensive experience as an ordained minister and grief educator spanning over two decades, Leanne offers invaluable insights into the sacred process of grief, and how the cognitive understanding of loss and grief falls short of the lived experience.

She learned this heartbreaking reality after the loss of her sister, Roxanne, after an eight-year battle with melanoma.

In this episode, we discuss imperfect goodbyes, sibling loss, living the "are you serious?!" era after loss, making room to grieve, and so much more!

Leanne Friesen Social & Website:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> “Grieving room is endangered in a culture that thinks it is more helpful to rush past grief than to lean into it.”

Leanne Friesen is the brilliant soul behind the groundbreaking book, "Grieving Room: Making Space for All the Hard Things After Death and Loss."

As the curator of the popular Instagram platform, @grieving.room, she has cultivated a nurturing space for those navigating the tumultuous waters of grief.

***
Click here to watch on YouTube
***

With a profound understanding that grief defies easy solutions, Leanne advocates for the power of creating room for the complexities of grief, rather than rushing to fix or diminish it.

Drawing upon her extensive experience as an ordained minister and grief educator spanning over two decades, Leanne offers invaluable insights into the sacred process of grief, and how the cognitive understanding of loss and grief falls short of the lived experience.

She learned this heartbreaking reality after the loss of her sister, Roxanne, after an eight-year battle with melanoma.

In this episode, we discuss imperfect goodbyes, sibling loss, living the "are you serious?!" era after loss, making room to grieve, and so much more!

Leanne Friesen Social & Website:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-14714520 Tue, 19 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400 3863 grief and light, sibling loss, grief, grieving room, stages of grief, surviving sibling, melanoma, faith, grief and loss, loss of a loved one, bereavement, hope, life after loss, forgotten mourners, resilience, stages of grief 2 31 full false "Anatomy of Grief" Series | What the heck is grief anyway?! "Anatomy of Grief" Series | What the heck is grief anyway?! "Grief is not this OR that; it's this AND that." - Nina Rodriguez

Grief thrusts us into the messy middle, which in time may become the magical middle.

But what the heck is it anyway?! The irony of this universal experience is that it's so unique to each experiencer, the answer of what is it depends on who you ask.

That said, there are some words, descriptions and frameworks that seem to describe aspects of big-picture GRIEF, that when understood, may give us the tools needed to understand and navigate through this nuanced experience.

Grief is love with nowhere to go...
AND unique to each person...
AND nuanced...
AND it lasts forever...
AND dynamic, evolving as we evolve...
AND...

This episode gets a little nerdy, AND it's great for those of us who seek to understand this life experience.

I also check in, providing updates on new and upcoming developments.

Tune in and DM me on Instagram @griefandlight to let me know what you think!
 
Referenced in this Episode:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> "Grief is not this OR that; it's this AND that." - Nina Rodriguez

Grief thrusts us into the messy middle, which in time may become the magical middle.

But what the heck is it anyway?! The irony of this universal experience is that it's so unique to each experiencer, the answer of what is it depends on who you ask.

That said, there are some words, descriptions and frameworks that seem to describe aspects of big-picture GRIEF, that when understood, may give us the tools needed to understand and navigate through this nuanced experience.

Grief is love with nowhere to go...
AND unique to each person...
AND nuanced...
AND it lasts forever...
AND dynamic, evolving as we evolve...
AND...

This episode gets a little nerdy, AND it's great for those of us who seek to understand this life experience.

I also check in, providing updates on new and upcoming developments.

Tune in and DM me on Instagram @griefandlight to let me know what you think!
 
Referenced in this Episode:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-14694072 Fri, 15 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0400 2906 grief and light, grief, what is grief, loss, loss of a loved one, sibling loss, types of grief, navigating grief, trauma, mental health, stages of grief, ambiguous grief, stillbirth, ptsd, disenfranchised grief, resilience 2 30 full false Butterflies and Halos: Angie’s Story of Love, Loss, and Legacy Butterflies and Halos: Angie’s Story of Love, Loss, and Legacy There are losses that rearrange our understanding of life and how we show up in the world.

The death of a young person, a baby, a spouse or a sibling can be particularly devastating, due to the traumatic and out-of-order elements surrounding the loss.

Surviving  one loss can feel unbearable. But all four?

Today’s guest shares her story of immense loss — a journey marked by the departure of her one-year-old son, Garret, her beloved husband, Jack, her resilient brother, Seth, and her sister-in-law, Brooke.

In her own profound grief, Angie Hanson found solace in a mission to change the narrative around grief, to bring light into the darkest moments, and to offer genuine support to those walking the path of loss.

She founded Butterflies + Halos, a greeting card company that seeks to bridge the gap between sympathy and understanding, between condolence and companionship.

Through her story, Angie illuminates the way forward for those grappling with their own losses, and offers insight into how we can better support one another through life's most challenging moments.


Angie Hanson Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Some of the conversation includes candid recounts of sensitive matters related to loss of loved ones. Listener discretion is advised.

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> There are losses that rearrange our understanding of life and how we show up in the world.

The death of a young person, a baby, a spouse or a sibling can be particularly devastating, due to the traumatic and out-of-order elements surrounding the loss.

Surviving  one loss can feel unbearable. But all four?

Today’s guest shares her story of immense loss — a journey marked by the departure of her one-year-old son, Garret, her beloved husband, Jack, her resilient brother, Seth, and her sister-in-law, Brooke.

In her own profound grief, Angie Hanson found solace in a mission to change the narrative around grief, to bring light into the darkest moments, and to offer genuine support to those walking the path of loss.

She founded Butterflies + Halos, a greeting card company that seeks to bridge the gap between sympathy and understanding, between condolence and companionship.

Through her story, Angie illuminates the way forward for those grappling with their own losses, and offers insight into how we can better support one another through life's most challenging moments.


Angie Hanson Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Some of the conversation includes candid recounts of sensitive matters related to loss of loved ones. Listener discretion is advised.

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Angie Hanson Buzzsprout-14636992 Wed, 06 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500 2802 grief and light, grief, sibling loss, loss of a spouse, loss of a husband, loss of a child, loss of a loved one, hope, bereavement, grief author, grace, cancer 2 29 full false Quantum Healing: Bridging Science and Spirituality with Casey Stevens Quantum Healing: Bridging Science and Spirituality with Casey Stevens Clinically Trained, Mystically Guided.

Casey Stevens embodies the philosophy encapsulated in this motto. She is a Spiritual Psychotherapist and Consciousness Coach, and founder of Shrink Bigger.

Casey shares her deeply personal journey of transformation, from navigating the loss of her husband and ensuing grief to embracing her true calling as an embodied healer. Through candid reflections and profound insights, Casey delves into the fusion of clinical expertise with mystical guidance, offering listeners a glimpse into her unique approach to healing and transformation.

Throughout the conversation, Casey explores the intricacies of her holistic therapeutic framework, which honors the interconnectedness of the bio-psycho-social-spiritual aspects of human experience. Drawing from her own experiences and clinical practice, she sheds light on the importance of shadow work, inner child work, family triangulation dynamics, organizing your energy, and conscious awareness in the process of healing and self-discovery.

Listeners are invited to explore the transformative power of quantum healing principles and learn practical techniques for cultivating mindfulness, self-awareness, and alignment with one's true self. Through her inspiring journey and compassionate wisdom, Casey offers hope and guidance to those navigating their own paths of healing and transformation.


Casey Steven Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Clinically Trained, Mystically Guided.

Casey Stevens embodies the philosophy encapsulated in this motto. She is a Spiritual Psychotherapist and Consciousness Coach, and founder of Shrink Bigger.

Casey shares her deeply personal journey of transformation, from navigating the loss of her husband and ensuing grief to embracing her true calling as an embodied healer. Through candid reflections and profound insights, Casey delves into the fusion of clinical expertise with mystical guidance, offering listeners a glimpse into her unique approach to healing and transformation.

Throughout the conversation, Casey explores the intricacies of her holistic therapeutic framework, which honors the interconnectedness of the bio-psycho-social-spiritual aspects of human experience. Drawing from her own experiences and clinical practice, she sheds light on the importance of shadow work, inner child work, family triangulation dynamics, organizing your energy, and conscious awareness in the process of healing and self-discovery.

Listeners are invited to explore the transformative power of quantum healing principles and learn practical techniques for cultivating mindfulness, self-awareness, and alignment with one's true self. Through her inspiring journey and compassionate wisdom, Casey offers hope and guidance to those navigating their own paths of healing and transformation.


Casey Steven Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Casey Stevens Buzzsprout-14587148 Wed, 28 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500 2881 grief, quantum healing, loss of a spouse, mental health, loss of a loved one, spirituality, psychology, psychotherapy, family therapy, stages of grief, widow 2 28 full false Grieving with Grace: Dr. Mekel Harris' Grief-Informed Approach to Relaxing into the Pain Grieving with Grace: Dr. Mekel Harris' Grief-Informed Approach to Relaxing into the Pain How does grief impact our mental health, and what strategies can we employ to nurture our well-being through times of loss and transition?

Join us as we explore the intersection of grief and mental health with the amazing Dr. Mekel Harris, Memphis-based licensed psychologist helping other perfectly imperfect folks navigate life's challenges in order to grow in lifestyle, love, leadership, and loyalties to God, self, and others. She also shares insights into her own grief experience and the ripple effect it had on her career after the loss of her beloved mother to pancreatic cancer.

            GIFT: 5 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Grief-Informed Clinician

She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Baylor University, an M.A. in Psychology from Houston Baptist University, and a Ph.D. in Clinical/School Psychology from the University of Houston, and further honed her skills through a pre-doctoral internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

She serves diverse communities through hospital-based programs, higher education, and her private practice, Harris Psychological Services, LLC.

Dr. Harris' is co-founder of Bloomwell Partners, LLC, empowering organizations with the tools to support those navigating grief in the workplace.

She is also an author and speaker, having presented at over 30 conferences worldwide, and a TEDx Talk.

Her memoir, "Relaxing Into the Pain: My Journey Into Grief & Beyond," offers profound insights into the human experience of loss.

A sought-after expert, Dr. Harris has shared her wisdom through various media platforms, including Equanimity Magazine and The Washington Post. Her advocacy for mental health extends to her role as VP of the Board of AIMHITN, and as a recurring guest on FOX13 Memphis.

Let's delve into the heart of grief and the transformative power of relaxing into our grief.

Dr. Mekel Harris Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

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]]> How does grief impact our mental health, and what strategies can we employ to nurture our well-being through times of loss and transition?

Join us as we explore the intersection of grief and mental health with the amazing Dr. Mekel Harris, Memphis-based licensed psychologist helping other perfectly imperfect folks navigate life's challenges in order to grow in lifestyle, love, leadership, and loyalties to God, self, and others. She also shares insights into her own grief experience and the ripple effect it had on her career after the loss of her beloved mother to pancreatic cancer.

            GIFT: 5 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Grief-Informed Clinician

She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Baylor University, an M.A. in Psychology from Houston Baptist University, and a Ph.D. in Clinical/School Psychology from the University of Houston, and further honed her skills through a pre-doctoral internship and post-doctoral fellowship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

She serves diverse communities through hospital-based programs, higher education, and her private practice, Harris Psychological Services, LLC.

Dr. Harris' is co-founder of Bloomwell Partners, LLC, empowering organizations with the tools to support those navigating grief in the workplace.

She is also an author and speaker, having presented at over 30 conferences worldwide, and a TEDx Talk.

Her memoir, "Relaxing Into the Pain: My Journey Into Grief & Beyond," offers profound insights into the human experience of loss.

A sought-after expert, Dr. Harris has shared her wisdom through various media platforms, including Equanimity Magazine and The Washington Post. Her advocacy for mental health extends to her role as VP of the Board of AIMHITN, and as a recurring guest on FOX13 Memphis.

Let's delve into the heart of grief and the transformative power of relaxing into our grief.

Dr. Mekel Harris Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

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]]> Nina Rodriguez, Dr. Mekel Harris Buzzsprout-14534964 Wed, 21 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500 3404 grief and light, mekel harris, grief, grief and loss, navigating grief, stages of grief, loss of a parent, loss of a mother, bereavement, mental health, psychology, grief anatomy 2 27 full false "Anatomy of Grief" Series | Grief Time is Not Linear "Anatomy of Grief" Series | Grief Time is Not Linear "Everybody else rushed me past the agony, but grief is the one and only voice that told me, 'take as long as you need'." J.S. Park – As Long As You Need


Life-altering loss and grief can alter our perception of time, an effect experienced by many grievers that I like to call "grief time". 

Grief time is non-linear, both a blink and an eternity. Grief also demands your time and attention, whether in the moment or after decades delayed.

In this episode, we delve into how our perception of time, and how we dedicate time to processing our grief can have long-lasting effects and outcomes. We discuss practical actionable steps and tools to help anchor us to the present moment and normalize this common phenomenon experienced by many.

Episodes & Article Referenced:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

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]]> "Everybody else rushed me past the agony, but grief is the one and only voice that told me, 'take as long as you need'." J.S. Park – As Long As You Need


Life-altering loss and grief can alter our perception of time, an effect experienced by many grievers that I like to call "grief time". 

Grief time is non-linear, both a blink and an eternity. Grief also demands your time and attention, whether in the moment or after decades delayed.

In this episode, we delve into how our perception of time, and how we dedicate time to processing our grief can have long-lasting effects and outcomes. We discuss practical actionable steps and tools to help anchor us to the present moment and normalize this common phenomenon experienced by many.

Episodes & Article Referenced:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-14492613 Tue, 13 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500 1782 grief and light, grief, anatomy of grief, bereavement, mourning, sibling loss, stages of grief, time, early grief, post-traumatic growth, hope, loss of a loved one 2 26 full false From Heartache to Hope: Kathy Wagner's memoir HERE WITH YOU From Heartache to Hope: Kathy Wagner's memoir HERE WITH YOU How can a mother move forward after the life-altering death of her son?

Is it even possible?

Our guest is on a mission to bring hope to those who navigate the challenging journey of grief, the trauma of loving someone suffering from substance use disorder, and the reality of life after losing a child.

Kathy Wagner is a grief-focused writer and author, and a mother of three grown children who understands the profound pain of loss. Her journey includes the devastating experience of losing her son Tristan to fentanyl poisoning in 2017.

Since that time, Wagner has advocated for improved access to quality addiction
recovery services and was a grief support group facilitator for Healing Hearts Canada.

In this episode, we discuss her beautiful memoir, "Here With You: A Memoir of Love, Family, and Addiction," where she candidly shares the highs, lows, and the beautiful resilience that emerged from her family's journey through addiction, recovery, and ultimately, loss.

Kathy's essays have found their way into The New York Times, Best Health Magazine, The Globe and Mail, and The Sun Magazine, and her first book is making waves with its release in Canada, as well as in the U.S. and worldwide (available Spring 2024).

Get ready for a touching and inspiring conversation with a woman who's turned her pain into a beacon of hope for others.


Kathy Wagner Social & Website:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyan

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

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]]> How can a mother move forward after the life-altering death of her son?

Is it even possible?

Our guest is on a mission to bring hope to those who navigate the challenging journey of grief, the trauma of loving someone suffering from substance use disorder, and the reality of life after losing a child.

Kathy Wagner is a grief-focused writer and author, and a mother of three grown children who understands the profound pain of loss. Her journey includes the devastating experience of losing her son Tristan to fentanyl poisoning in 2017.

Since that time, Wagner has advocated for improved access to quality addiction
recovery services and was a grief support group facilitator for Healing Hearts Canada.

In this episode, we discuss her beautiful memoir, "Here With You: A Memoir of Love, Family, and Addiction," where she candidly shares the highs, lows, and the beautiful resilience that emerged from her family's journey through addiction, recovery, and ultimately, loss.

Kathy's essays have found their way into The New York Times, Best Health Magazine, The Globe and Mail, and The Sun Magazine, and her first book is making waves with its release in Canada, as well as in the U.S. and worldwide (available Spring 2024).

Get ready for a touching and inspiring conversation with a woman who's turned her pain into a beacon of hope for others.


Kathy Wagner Social & Website:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyan

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez, Kathy Wagner Buzzsprout-14446939 Wed, 07 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500 3248 grief and light, kathy wagner, here with you, memoir, grief, addiction, recovery, loss of a son, loss of a child, child loss, bereavement, grief, fentanyl poisoning, sibling loss, bereaved mother, grieving mother, hope, post traumatic growth, stages of gr 2 25 full false Cat's Cosmic Compass: Navigating Loss, Faith, Forgiveness, and Freedom Cat's Cosmic Compass: Navigating Loss, Faith, Forgiveness, and Freedom In this deeply introspective episode, Catherine Baars opens up about her personal experiences with grief, especially in the context of navigating a complex relationship with her father, whom she lost a mere six months as of this recording. 

For as long as she can remember, Cat's relationship with her father was strained due to his substance use disorder, which eventually led to their estrangement and a final reconciliation before he passed.

She bravely shares insights into the delicate interplay between death and spirituality, shedding light on her own healing journey from religious trauma.

As a professional astrologer, Cat guides others towards understanding their life's purpose through dedicated readings based on each individual's birth chart.

Through her unique perspective and lived experience, she offers a message of hope, healing, and resilience to anyone grappling with life's profound changes and challenges. 


Catherine Baars Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this deeply introspective episode, Catherine Baars opens up about her personal experiences with grief, especially in the context of navigating a complex relationship with her father, whom she lost a mere six months as of this recording. 

For as long as she can remember, Cat's relationship with her father was strained due to his substance use disorder, which eventually led to their estrangement and a final reconciliation before he passed.

She bravely shares insights into the delicate interplay between death and spirituality, shedding light on her own healing journey from religious trauma.

As a professional astrologer, Cat guides others towards understanding their life's purpose through dedicated readings based on each individual's birth chart.

Through her unique perspective and lived experience, she offers a message of hope, healing, and resilience to anyone grappling with life's profound changes and challenges. 


Catherine Baars Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez, Catherine Baars Buzzsprout-14386746 Tue, 30 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0500 3587 grief, loss, mourning, religious trauma, astrology, loss of a parent, estranged relationship, mental health, healing, grief and loss, grief and light 2 24 full false Sacred Encounters: Carlos Duran's transformation "from gangster to healer" Sacred Encounters: Carlos Duran's transformation "from gangster to healer" Carlos Duran, shares his inspiring story, from the turbulent streets of Wheehawk, New Jersey, to the mountains of Costa Rica. His story is a testament to the power of transformation through nature and plant-based medicine, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Growing up, Carlos faced the challenges of a violent and abusive household that left him feeling separate, disconnected, and profoundly alone.

His journey took an unexpected turn when he found himself in the serene landscapes of Costa Rica. There, fate led him to a Shaman who introduced him to Yagè, the Colombian form of Ayahuasca. The transformative power of this ancient plant medicine became evident during a 45-minute trek up the side of a mountain to his first ceremony. In that sacred space, he underwent true spiritual healing and a radical transformation that altered the course of his life.

Under the guidance of Taita Juanito, Carlos has spent the last decade immersed in the study and practice of Yage, evolving from a hustler to a healer.

Co-founder of Four Visions, founder of Savage Encounter (a men’s retreat) and Operation Purify (a veteran’s retreat), he passionately shares the profound healing potential of this sacred medicine with the world. 

Carlos Duran is a living testament to the transformative power within each of us, and continues to inspire others to embrace their own path to healing and connection.



Carlos Duran Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Full Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

The information shared in this episode does not constitute real medical or legal advice, nor imply

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Carlos Duran, shares his inspiring story, from the turbulent streets of Wheehawk, New Jersey, to the mountains of Costa Rica. His story is a testament to the power of transformation through nature and plant-based medicine, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Growing up, Carlos faced the challenges of a violent and abusive household that left him feeling separate, disconnected, and profoundly alone.

His journey took an unexpected turn when he found himself in the serene landscapes of Costa Rica. There, fate led him to a Shaman who introduced him to Yagè, the Colombian form of Ayahuasca. The transformative power of this ancient plant medicine became evident during a 45-minute trek up the side of a mountain to his first ceremony. In that sacred space, he underwent true spiritual healing and a radical transformation that altered the course of his life.

Under the guidance of Taita Juanito, Carlos has spent the last decade immersed in the study and practice of Yage, evolving from a hustler to a healer.

Co-founder of Four Visions, founder of Savage Encounter (a men’s retreat) and Operation Purify (a veteran’s retreat), he passionately shares the profound healing potential of this sacred medicine with the world. 

Carlos Duran is a living testament to the transformative power within each of us, and continues to inspire others to embrace their own path to healing and connection.



Carlos Duran Social & Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Full Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

The information shared in this episode does not constitute real medical or legal advice, nor imply

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez, Carlos Duran Buzzsprout-14344050 Tue, 23 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500 3016 grief and light, grief, carlos duran, savage encounter, operation purify, spirituality, ayahuasca, yage, spiritual retreat, yage, healing, veteran, women's retreat, men's retreat, veteran's retreat, womb healing, plant medicine, spiritual body 2 23 full true "Anatomy of Grief" Series | What's your grief bias? "Anatomy of Grief" Series | What's your grief bias? What is your grief bias? 

(Hint: You have one. We all do.)

Our beliefs about grief, or grief biases, define how we show up for ourselves and each other. They become particularly evident when we experience a loss or life-altering circumstances.


Inspired by the profound insights gained from Megan Devine's Grief Care Professional Certificate Program, this episode peels back the layers of treating grief as a disease or personal failing, the societal pressures and expectations that shape our collective experience, and what role our grief-phobic culture plays in the epidemic of loneliness.

I invite you to explore your own grief biases, challenge them, and cultivate curiosity as we improve how we navigate the nuances of grief.

To answer the question in the episode, DM me on Instagram at @griefandlight.

Sources referenced in the episode:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What is your grief bias? 

(Hint: You have one. We all do.)

Our beliefs about grief, or grief biases, define how we show up for ourselves and each other. They become particularly evident when we experience a loss or life-altering circumstances.


Inspired by the profound insights gained from Megan Devine's Grief Care Professional Certificate Program, this episode peels back the layers of treating grief as a disease or personal failing, the societal pressures and expectations that shape our collective experience, and what role our grief-phobic culture plays in the epidemic of loneliness.

I invite you to explore your own grief biases, challenge them, and cultivate curiosity as we improve how we navigate the nuances of grief.

To answer the question in the episode, DM me on Instagram at @griefandlight.

Sources referenced in the episode:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-14330886 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500 1468 anatomy of grief, grief, grief and loss, sibling loss, stages of grief, disenfranchised grief, mental health, loneliness, epidemic of loneliness, grief support, grief and loss, surviving sibling, grief and light, megan devine, refuge in grief 2 22 full false Grace on Ice: Skating through Sibling Grief 30 Years Delayed | Judy Lipson Grace on Ice: Skating through Sibling Grief 30 Years Delayed | Judy Lipson Is it possible to begin grieving a loss after 30 years?

Join us as we delve into the profound impact of grief on our lives and the importance of opening up the conversation surrounding it.

Judy Lipson is the author of Celebration of Sisters: It Is Never Too Late To Grieve, winner of Literary Titan’s 2021 Silver Award.

The sole survivor of three sisters, Judy founded Celebration of Sisters, an annual ice-skating fundraiser benefiting Massachusetts General Hospital, and as a way to commemorate the lives and memories of her beloved sisters Margie and Jane.

Judy was the keynote speaker at The Bereaved Parents USA Conference in 2023, presented at The Compassionate Friends National Conference, appeared on The Open to Hope cable television program, and is a ForGrief speaker.

Her passion for figure skating secured the recipient of U.S. Figure Skating Association 2020 Get Up Award.

In her recent memoir, Judy states,  “there is no recipe for grief. The instant you suffer a loss, your life is changed.”

Join us as we explore Judy's story of regaining her balance on the ice skating rink and in life after loss.

Judy Lipson Social and Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Is it possible to begin grieving a loss after 30 years?

Join us as we delve into the profound impact of grief on our lives and the importance of opening up the conversation surrounding it.

Judy Lipson is the author of Celebration of Sisters: It Is Never Too Late To Grieve, winner of Literary Titan’s 2021 Silver Award.

The sole survivor of three sisters, Judy founded Celebration of Sisters, an annual ice-skating fundraiser benefiting Massachusetts General Hospital, and as a way to commemorate the lives and memories of her beloved sisters Margie and Jane.

Judy was the keynote speaker at The Bereaved Parents USA Conference in 2023, presented at The Compassionate Friends National Conference, appeared on The Open to Hope cable television program, and is a ForGrief speaker.

Her passion for figure skating secured the recipient of U.S. Figure Skating Association 2020 Get Up Award.

In her recent memoir, Judy states,  “there is no recipe for grief. The instant you suffer a loss, your life is changed.”

Join us as we explore Judy's story of regaining her balance on the ice skating rink and in life after loss.

Judy Lipson Social and Website:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Judy Lipson Buzzsprout-14285643 Thu, 11 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500 2407 grief, sibling grief, grief and loss, loss of a sister, bulimia, anorexia, stages of grief, adult grief, loss of a parent, compounded grief, complicated grief, ice skating, Judy Lipson, Grief and Light Podcast, forgotten mourners 2 21 full false Season 2 Premiere: Demystifying the "Anatomy of Grief" Series Season 2 Premiere: Demystifying the "Anatomy of Grief" Series Welcome to the Season 2 of the Grief and Light Podcast!

Season 2 is a deliberate exploration of the "Anatomy of Grief," aiming to demystify the misunderstood aspects of grief and offer a platform for diverse voices to share their unique stories, resources, experience, education and more.

We're not just talking about grief; we're redefining what it means to be grief-informed.

By challenging societal norms and advocating for a grief-informed world, this season aims to provide valuable insights and support for individuals navigating the intricate and often misunderstood journey of loss, fostering a community that embraces the multifaceted nature of grief.

We'll feature guests who offer traditional, alternative, and sometimes controversial views on how to navigate the grief experience.

So grab your headphones, and join me as I share the behind-the-scenes of navigating the fifth holiday season without my brother, and give a glimpse into what's next.

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Resource: 10 Core Principles of Being Grief-Informed (free download provided by the Dougy Center)

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Welcome to the Season 2 of the Grief and Light Podcast!

Season 2 is a deliberate exploration of the "Anatomy of Grief," aiming to demystify the misunderstood aspects of grief and offer a platform for diverse voices to share their unique stories, resources, experience, education and more.

We're not just talking about grief; we're redefining what it means to be grief-informed.

By challenging societal norms and advocating for a grief-informed world, this season aims to provide valuable insights and support for individuals navigating the intricate and often misunderstood journey of loss, fostering a community that embraces the multifaceted nature of grief.

We'll feature guests who offer traditional, alternative, and sometimes controversial views on how to navigate the grief experience.

So grab your headphones, and join me as I share the behind-the-scenes of navigating the fifth holiday season without my brother, and give a glimpse into what's next.

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Resource: 10 Core Principles of Being Grief-Informed (free download provided by the Dougy Center)

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-14257943 Sat, 06 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500 1481 grief, loss, grief informed, anatomy of grief, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death 2 20 full false I have a confession... and an invitation for the New Year I have a confession... and an invitation for the New Year A message for the new year…

I'm about to reveal a "secret" that's been a quiet cornerstone of my journey – a confession that feels like turning a page in our shared narrative. 

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the soul tribe that has grown with me since the podcast's inception on March 30th, 2023. 

The journey, which began as a personal exploration of my own grief, has evolved into something profound, a space of connection and authenticity that has touched lives in ways I could never have anticipated.

Now, as I stand at the intersection of past, present and future, I'm peeling back a layer of my identity to share a truth with you.  This revelation is a stepping stone into a deeper exploration of the heart-centered work that has become the core of my existence, and to our connection. 

I also offer an invitation of hope for the New Year and a beautiful poem by the incredible poet, Donna Ashworth, as we close out 2023.

Timestamps:

  • 0:15 Introduction & Personal Journey in 2023
  • 2:04 Evolution of the Grief and Light Podcast
  • 2:47 Confession: Revealing the real name
  • 7:20 Key takeaways from the Grief & Light Podcast Guests in 2023
  • 10:47 Clarity and Alignment in 2023
  • 12:09 Invitation of Hope for 2024
  • 15:36 What's next for Grief & Light?
  • 16:29 Closing and Poem by Donna Ashworth


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> A message for the new year…

I'm about to reveal a "secret" that's been a quiet cornerstone of my journey – a confession that feels like turning a page in our shared narrative. 

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the soul tribe that has grown with me since the podcast's inception on March 30th, 2023. 

The journey, which began as a personal exploration of my own grief, has evolved into something profound, a space of connection and authenticity that has touched lives in ways I could never have anticipated.

Now, as I stand at the intersection of past, present and future, I'm peeling back a layer of my identity to share a truth with you.  This revelation is a stepping stone into a deeper exploration of the heart-centered work that has become the core of my existence, and to our connection. 

I also offer an invitation of hope for the New Year and a beautiful poem by the incredible poet, Donna Ashworth, as we close out 2023.

Timestamps:

  • 0:15 Introduction & Personal Journey in 2023
  • 2:04 Evolution of the Grief and Light Podcast
  • 2:47 Confession: Revealing the real name
  • 7:20 Key takeaways from the Grief & Light Podcast Guests in 2023
  • 10:47 Clarity and Alignment in 2023
  • 12:09 Invitation of Hope for 2024
  • 15:36 What's next for Grief & Light?
  • 16:29 Closing and Poem by Donna Ashworth


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

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#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

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]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-14216926 Fri, 29 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500 1095 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, hope, stillbirth, recovery, gratitude, grief is love 1 19 full false Between Pages and Pain: Writing the unthinkable in STILL, I CANNOT SAVE YOU Between Pages and Pain: Writing the unthinkable in STILL, I CANNOT SAVE YOU What would you do if your only sibling, your sister, was diagnosed with a terminal illness the day after giving birth to her second child?

In this heartfelt episode, we embark on an intimate conversation with the remarkable Dr. Kelly S. Thompson, delving into the intricacies of her military upbringing and the unique sisterhood she shared with Meghan.

Kelly candidly shares the challenges of navigating a relationship affected by her sister's addiction, estrangement, and ultimately, the looming shadow of death following Meghan's terminal diagnosis.

Dr.  Thompson is a retired military officer who holds an MFA and a Ph.D. in Creative Writing, and has been published in Chatelaine, Maclean’s, the Globe and Mail, and more.

Her debut memoir, GIRLS NEED NOT APPLY, was named a Globe and Mail Top 100 Book, and was an instant bestseller. She works as a mentor for the University of King’s College MFA in Creative Nonfiction.

Her second memoir, STILL, I CANNOT SAVE YOU, was released in 2023, and was also an instant bestseller in Canada. At once funny, raw, and heartbreaking, STILL, I CANNOT SAVE YOU, is a story about addiction, abuse, and tragedy, but above all, it is a powerful portrait of an enduring love between sisters.

In this emotional and personable discussion, we'll reflect on the enduring love between sisters, the impact of Meghan's diagnosis, and how Kelly crafts stories that resonate deeply with the universal human experience.

Get in touch with Dr. Kelly S. Thompson via:

BONUS! Check out her bull terrier, Ham, on Newsweek and follow him on Instagram! (He's kind of a big deal 😜)

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What would you do if your only sibling, your sister, was diagnosed with a terminal illness the day after giving birth to her second child?

In this heartfelt episode, we embark on an intimate conversation with the remarkable Dr. Kelly S. Thompson, delving into the intricacies of her military upbringing and the unique sisterhood she shared with Meghan.

Kelly candidly shares the challenges of navigating a relationship affected by her sister's addiction, estrangement, and ultimately, the looming shadow of death following Meghan's terminal diagnosis.

Dr.  Thompson is a retired military officer who holds an MFA and a Ph.D. in Creative Writing, and has been published in Chatelaine, Maclean’s, the Globe and Mail, and more.

Her debut memoir, GIRLS NEED NOT APPLY, was named a Globe and Mail Top 100 Book, and was an instant bestseller. She works as a mentor for the University of King’s College MFA in Creative Nonfiction.

Her second memoir, STILL, I CANNOT SAVE YOU, was released in 2023, and was also an instant bestseller in Canada. At once funny, raw, and heartbreaking, STILL, I CANNOT SAVE YOU, is a story about addiction, abuse, and tragedy, but above all, it is a powerful portrait of an enduring love between sisters.

In this emotional and personable discussion, we'll reflect on the enduring love between sisters, the impact of Meghan's diagnosis, and how Kelly crafts stories that resonate deeply with the universal human experience.

Get in touch with Dr. Kelly S. Thompson via:

BONUS! Check out her bull terrier, Ham, on Newsweek and follow him on Instagram! (He's kind of a big deal 😜)

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Kelly S. Thompson, Ph.D. Buzzsprout-14158644 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500 3915 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, hospice, cancer, loss, memoir, author 1 18 full false Modeling Courage: Recovering from Loss and Addiction | Jonathan Niziol Modeling Courage: Recovering from Loss and Addiction | Jonathan Niziol The sudden death of a parent, the loss of three close friends, and a sexual assault were among the catalysts of Jonathan Niziol’s 15-year spiral into alcohol, drugs, exercise addiction, anxiety and depression. His story, however, was kept hidden behind a carefully-constructed social media exterior, until now…

Raised in a serene Canadian farm, Jonathan Niziol's life is soon shadowed by the untimely loss of his mother, one day before his 21st birthday.

In this episode, Jonathan opens up about the heartbreak that sparked a transformative journey—a path marked by addiction, international modeling ventures, eating disorder, pancreatitis, sexual assault, and the triumphant stride of 16 1/2 years of sobriety to-date.

Amidst the heartbreaking lows, Jonathan's story takes an unexpected turn into the world of modeling, uncovering a tumultuous relationship with body image and a challenging connection with food.

In this candid conversation, he shares how embracing therapy in 2017 became the beacon of light that liberated him from the 15-year grasp of addiction and mental health disorders.

Join us as we explore the intricate layers of Jonathan's resilient spirit, shedding light on the triumphs that emerged from the depths of adversity.

Jonathan Niziol may be reached via:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> The sudden death of a parent, the loss of three close friends, and a sexual assault were among the catalysts of Jonathan Niziol’s 15-year spiral into alcohol, drugs, exercise addiction, anxiety and depression. His story, however, was kept hidden behind a carefully-constructed social media exterior, until now…

Raised in a serene Canadian farm, Jonathan Niziol's life is soon shadowed by the untimely loss of his mother, one day before his 21st birthday.

In this episode, Jonathan opens up about the heartbreak that sparked a transformative journey—a path marked by addiction, international modeling ventures, eating disorder, pancreatitis, sexual assault, and the triumphant stride of 16 1/2 years of sobriety to-date.

Amidst the heartbreaking lows, Jonathan's story takes an unexpected turn into the world of modeling, uncovering a tumultuous relationship with body image and a challenging connection with food.

In this candid conversation, he shares how embracing therapy in 2017 became the beacon of light that liberated him from the 15-year grasp of addiction and mental health disorders.

Join us as we explore the intricate layers of Jonathan's resilient spirit, shedding light on the triumphs that emerged from the depths of adversity.

Jonathan Niziol may be reached via:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Jonathan Niziol Buzzsprout-14114826 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0500 3333 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, loss of a mother, continuing bonds, grief support, loss of a loved one, eating disorder, mental health, fitness, addiction, recovery, sober living, sobriety, resilience, model, jonathan niziol, therapy 1 17 full true Reclaiming Grief with Danielle Catherine Baker Reclaiming Grief with Danielle Catherine Baker Join us for a magical conversation with Danielle Catherine Baker, a dedicated mother, women's health mentor, doula and female yoga teacher.

She lives nomadically with her family, hosts Women's Circle Online, and women's circles wherever she lands.

Danielle is also the host of the Depths of Motherhood Podcast, where she welcomes guests to raise awareness for undisturbed birth and conscious parenting.

Last month, Danielle released her book,  “Reclaiming Circle: A Guide to Holding Women’s Circles”. 

In this episode, she also shares her grief story following her brother’s death by suicide earlier this year, to create awareness, and share how her own practices of nervous system regulation, women's circles, and biomagnetic practices have supported her through the waves of grief.

Danielle Catherine Website & Social:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Join us for a magical conversation with Danielle Catherine Baker, a dedicated mother, women's health mentor, doula and female yoga teacher.

She lives nomadically with her family, hosts Women's Circle Online, and women's circles wherever she lands.

Danielle is also the host of the Depths of Motherhood Podcast, where she welcomes guests to raise awareness for undisturbed birth and conscious parenting.

Last month, Danielle released her book,  “Reclaiming Circle: A Guide to Holding Women’s Circles”. 

In this episode, she also shares her grief story following her brother’s death by suicide earlier this year, to create awareness, and share how her own practices of nervous system regulation, women's circles, and biomagnetic practices have supported her through the waves of grief.

Danielle Catherine Website & Social:


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:


Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Catherine Baker Buzzsprout-14102387 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0500 4361 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, disenfranchised grief, bereaved sibling, womb healing, women's circle, doula, yoga, mental health, motherhood, conscious parent 1 16 full false 10 weeks of tears: early grief, sibling loss & holiday heartache 10 weeks of tears: early grief, sibling loss & holiday heartache Handle with care. 

My intention is always to honor my guests’ truths, stories, their loved ones’ stories, and to deliver these heart-felt stories to you as a listener with care.

Some stories are more layered than others. In this episode, we hear from a brave sister, Brittany Merz, doing everything in her power to honor her beloved sister, Samantha, who, as of this recording, passed a mere 10 weeks ago.

You will hear an honest recount of the early grief days, in all of its heaviness and fogginess.

You will also hear details in this story that are not apt for everyone. So if you have children around, I encourage you to save this episode for another time when you can listen more privately. If you’re in the grips of early grief or are feeling generally overwhelmed and feel the need to pause, please do so.

I am not here to tell you when you’ve reached your capacity.

But I want to give a gentle warning that in doing my best to honor the painful truth of this story, parts of the recount can feel overwhelming as a listener.

The purpose of this podcast is to explore grief honestly and authentically, and sometimes that means sharing raw, uncomfortable, and painful truths.

So as always, listen with care and honor your thresholds.

As a grieving sister, I deeply empathized with Brittany’s story and completely understand her heart’s desire to share Samantha's story, create awareness about the reality of fentanyl poisonings ("Sonoma County's Silent Killer"), and share her truth as a grieving sister.

I hope you feel the unconditional love through the pain.


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

--

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Handle with care. 

My intention is always to honor my guests’ truths, stories, their loved ones’ stories, and to deliver these heart-felt stories to you as a listener with care.

Some stories are more layered than others. In this episode, we hear from a brave sister, Brittany Merz, doing everything in her power to honor her beloved sister, Samantha, who, as of this recording, passed a mere 10 weeks ago.

You will hear an honest recount of the early grief days, in all of its heaviness and fogginess.

You will also hear details in this story that are not apt for everyone. So if you have children around, I encourage you to save this episode for another time when you can listen more privately. If you’re in the grips of early grief or are feeling generally overwhelmed and feel the need to pause, please do so.

I am not here to tell you when you’ve reached your capacity.

But I want to give a gentle warning that in doing my best to honor the painful truth of this story, parts of the recount can feel overwhelming as a listener.

The purpose of this podcast is to explore grief honestly and authentically, and sometimes that means sharing raw, uncomfortable, and painful truths.

So as always, listen with care and honor your thresholds.

As a grieving sister, I deeply empathized with Brittany’s story and completely understand her heart’s desire to share Samantha's story, create awareness about the reality of fentanyl poisonings ("Sonoma County's Silent Killer"), and share her truth as a grieving sister.

I hope you feel the unconditional love through the pain.


Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

--

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-14059757 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500 2844 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, after death communication, signs from heaven, fentanyl poisoning, opioid overdose, fentanyl 1 15 full true Nurtured by nature: Letting nature carry the magnitude of our grief Nurtured by nature: Letting nature carry the magnitude of our grief "I never understood why when someone dies the bereaved post quotes with photos of nature — waves, sunsets, clouds, rain … and then my brother died. My only sibling. 

And I found myself living somewhere between the earth and the sky, crying into the sunset, because I finally understood that nature is the only force capable of holding the magnitude of my grief. " - Nina Rodriguez

In the early years, I found that only nature had the capacity to hold the magnitude of my grief.  So I leaned into it.

In this episode, I share a reflection about the power of grief to nurture and transmute our pain, and how moving forward requires us to surrender, slow down, and take tiny steps as we regain our footing around the shattered pieces of loss. 

Join me in this exploration of grief and nature. 

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> "I never understood why when someone dies the bereaved post quotes with photos of nature — waves, sunsets, clouds, rain … and then my brother died. My only sibling. 

And I found myself living somewhere between the earth and the sky, crying into the sunset, because I finally understood that nature is the only force capable of holding the magnitude of my grief. " - Nina Rodriguez

In the early years, I found that only nature had the capacity to hold the magnitude of my grief.  So I leaned into it.

In this episode, I share a reflection about the power of grief to nurture and transmute our pain, and how moving forward requires us to surrender, slow down, and take tiny steps as we regain our footing around the shattered pieces of loss. 

Join me in this exploration of grief and nature. 

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-13996286 Sun, 19 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500 819 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, nature, cardinals 1 14 full false Ambiguous grief and sibling loss during the holidays with Andrianna Moustakas Ambiguous grief and sibling loss during the holidays with Andrianna Moustakas Meet Andrianna, a remarkable young woman who experienced the heartbreaking loss of her brother, Christopher, just three years ago. This devastating loss, along with having to navigate a complex relationship with her mother, shaped her path and mission to create a community of support and understanding. 

Andrianna is a certified family life educator, holds a B.S in Human Development & Family Studies, and is working on her masters degree in Social Work. She has worked in child advocacy, food banking, nurturing parenting, and in a hospital, where she focused on preventing burnout among staff. Currently, she's interning at a non-profit specializing in helping grieving children.

As part of this mission and her own grieving process, Andrianna founded and hosts the "A Path to Helping Others" podcast, sharing stories about grief, mental health, and moving forward to inspire and remind others that they're not alone.

Click to access the links mentioned in the episode:

Her commitment to making a positive impact is nothing short of inspiring, and we're excited for you to dive into her story, where we discuss adult sibling loss, complex family dynamics, ambiguous grief, holiday grief, and so much more!

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Meet Andrianna, a remarkable young woman who experienced the heartbreaking loss of her brother, Christopher, just three years ago. This devastating loss, along with having to navigate a complex relationship with her mother, shaped her path and mission to create a community of support and understanding. 

Andrianna is a certified family life educator, holds a B.S in Human Development & Family Studies, and is working on her masters degree in Social Work. She has worked in child advocacy, food banking, nurturing parenting, and in a hospital, where she focused on preventing burnout among staff. Currently, she's interning at a non-profit specializing in helping grieving children.

As part of this mission and her own grieving process, Andrianna founded and hosts the "A Path to Helping Others" podcast, sharing stories about grief, mental health, and moving forward to inspire and remind others that they're not alone.

Click to access the links mentioned in the episode:

Her commitment to making a positive impact is nothing short of inspiring, and we're excited for you to dive into her story, where we discuss adult sibling loss, complex family dynamics, ambiguous grief, holiday grief, and so much more!

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-13986428 Fri, 17 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500 2278 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, holiday grief, ambiguous grief, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, loss of a brother, loss of a sister, bereaved siblings month 1 13 full false A Husband's Perspective on Grief | How Adult Sibling Loss Impacts Marriage A Husband's Perspective on Grief | How Adult Sibling Loss Impacts Marriage In this heartfelt conversation, my husband, Cesar, and I delve into the complex dynamics of adult sibling loss, and how it has tested, strengthened, and reshaped our relationship.

You will hear a candid exploration of the grief journey from a husband's perspective, providing unique insights into the challenges and triumphs of grieving as a couple. We share our experiences, discussing the initial shock and aftermath of the first three years of grief.

This episode offers a rarely-discussed perspective for those navigating similar journeys of grief and marriage, reminding us all that even in the most challenging times, love and support can be our guiding lights.

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this heartfelt conversation, my husband, Cesar, and I delve into the complex dynamics of adult sibling loss, and how it has tested, strengthened, and reshaped our relationship.

You will hear a candid exploration of the grief journey from a husband's perspective, providing unique insights into the challenges and triumphs of grieving as a couple. We share our experiences, discussing the initial shock and aftermath of the first three years of grief.

This episode offers a rarely-discussed perspective for those navigating similar journeys of grief and marriage, reminding us all that even in the most challenging times, love and support can be our guiding lights.

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-13876172 Wed, 01 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0400 2590 grief and marriage, grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, adult sibling loss, surviving sibling, marriage, love 1 12 full false Grief and Personal Boundaries Grief and Personal Boundaries In this episode, we explore how grief can transform and redefine our personal boundaries, either drawing them closer or pushing them further away, as well as how grief triggers, such as anger or sadness, can serve as indicators of these shifting boundaries.

The episode also highlights the challenge of communicating these changing boundaries to others, and emphasizes the importance of honoring them as another part of the grief journey without judgment.

Ultimately, the message is to embrace personal truths, and to honor our natural human reactions to grief with self-compassion.

There's a reference to the difference between pain and suffering, which I delve deeper into in "EP. 6 - The Pain is Real, but the Suffering is Optional".

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> In this episode, we explore how grief can transform and redefine our personal boundaries, either drawing them closer or pushing them further away, as well as how grief triggers, such as anger or sadness, can serve as indicators of these shifting boundaries.

The episode also highlights the challenge of communicating these changing boundaries to others, and emphasizes the importance of honoring them as another part of the grief journey without judgment.

Ultimately, the message is to embrace personal truths, and to honor our natural human reactions to grief with self-compassion.

There's a reference to the difference between pain and suffering, which I delve deeper into in "EP. 6 - The Pain is Real, but the Suffering is Optional".

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-13551383 Fri, 08 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0400 474 grief, boundaries, personal boundaries, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss 1 11 full false Rising through Grief with Melinda Chinen, Certified Grief & Life Coach Rising through Grief with Melinda Chinen, Certified Grief & Life Coach Watch the video on YouTube

***

This episode is dedicated to our brothers and sisters in Lāhainā, Maui, who suffered the tremendous loss of their lives, loved ones, homes, and life as they knew it as a result of the catastrophic wildfires on August 2023.

We encourage you to support the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. Here are some organizations making a difference:


***

Melinda Chinen is a grief and life coach based in San Diego, California. Her beautiful energy, her work, and her art reveal much about her story and philosophy about life, death, and life after life.

We delve into her experience with loss after witnessing the decline and death of her best friend, Paige, due to cancer, her work with the terminally ill, her grief and life coaching experience, her art, and what it means to live, love and grieve meaningfully.

Takeaways:

  • Grief coaching helps individuals navigate their grief journey and rebuild a future they didn't know was possible.
  • Acknowledging and honoring grief is essential, but society often avoids it, making it challenging to mourn meaningfully.
  • Grief is a present experience that arises to teach us something and should be witnessed rather than fixed.
  • Living by one's values and trusting the natural flow of life can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
  • Art can be a powerful tool for healing and self-expression.
  • Spirituality plays a significant role in the grief process, and individuals closer to their transition often experience heightened spiritual experiences.
  • Community support and group programs can provide a safe space for individuals to navigate their grief and find support and understanding.


Melinda may be reached via:


"When you stop doing things by the struggle of your individual will, and you fall into your nature, the power of nature itself has intentions and a design for you, and it will pick you up like a

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Watch the video on YouTube

***

This episode is dedicated to our brothers and sisters in Lāhainā, Maui, who suffered the tremendous loss of their lives, loved ones, homes, and life as they knew it as a result of the catastrophic wildfires on August 2023.

We encourage you to support the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. Here are some organizations making a difference:


***

Melinda Chinen is a grief and life coach based in San Diego, California. Her beautiful energy, her work, and her art reveal much about her story and philosophy about life, death, and life after life.

We delve into her experience with loss after witnessing the decline and death of her best friend, Paige, due to cancer, her work with the terminally ill, her grief and life coaching experience, her art, and what it means to live, love and grieve meaningfully.

Takeaways:

  • Grief coaching helps individuals navigate their grief journey and rebuild a future they didn't know was possible.
  • Acknowledging and honoring grief is essential, but society often avoids it, making it challenging to mourn meaningfully.
  • Grief is a present experience that arises to teach us something and should be witnessed rather than fixed.
  • Living by one's values and trusting the natural flow of life can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
  • Art can be a powerful tool for healing and self-expression.
  • Spirituality plays a significant role in the grief process, and individuals closer to their transition often experience heightened spiritual experiences.
  • Community support and group programs can provide a safe space for individuals to navigate their grief and find support and understanding.


Melinda may be reached via:


"When you stop doing things by the struggle of your individual will, and you fall into your nature, the power of nature itself has intentions and a design for you, and it will pick you up like a

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Melinda Chinen Buzzsprout-13417417 Thu, 17 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400 2353 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, life after death, spirituality, grief coach, life coach, Lahaina, Maui, Maui wildfire, Art, coaching 1 10 full false Trusting Yourself to be All In with Amanda McKoy Flanagan Trusting Yourself to be All In with Amanda McKoy Flanagan Buy the book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C4M137BJ

I have the honor of introducing a remarkable guest whose life story is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, healing generational trauma, and the power of love.

Her name is Amanda McKoy Flanagan, and she is an author, podcast co-host, a mother, wife, and a life-long spiritual seeker.

In this episode, we’re talking spirituality, personal growth, and inspiring journeys of transformation.

Originally from New York, she now resides in beautiful Colorado. She is co-founder of the nonprofit organization, Castle Rock Clubhouse, a recovery sanctuary, and she is co-host of the Sol Rising Podcast, along with her soul friend Ginny.

She holds a bachelor's degree in English and journalism, and a master's degree in social work.

Today, we celebrate the release of her inspirational memoir, "Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go," quite literally an open-book perspective on generational trauma and healing, sibling loss, love, multiple losses, addiction and recovery, spirituality and healing.

We discuss how to harness the power of various modalities like Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT), EMDR, meditation, spirituality, Imago Therapy, and more, to heal oneself, marriage, family, and how that healing ripples out to the community and beyond.

Amanda shares what it means to be "all in" and "let go".

She is available for speaking engagements, podcast and blog interviews, workshops, book clubs, and collaborations:

“Allow yourself to be loved when you hurt. Then allow yourself to become love. Then go love others.” — From Trust Yourself to Be All In

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Buy the book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C4M137BJ

I have the honor of introducing a remarkable guest whose life story is a testament to resilience, self-discovery, healing generational trauma, and the power of love.

Her name is Amanda McKoy Flanagan, and she is an author, podcast co-host, a mother, wife, and a life-long spiritual seeker.

In this episode, we’re talking spirituality, personal growth, and inspiring journeys of transformation.

Originally from New York, she now resides in beautiful Colorado. She is co-founder of the nonprofit organization, Castle Rock Clubhouse, a recovery sanctuary, and she is co-host of the Sol Rising Podcast, along with her soul friend Ginny.

She holds a bachelor's degree in English and journalism, and a master's degree in social work.

Today, we celebrate the release of her inspirational memoir, "Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go," quite literally an open-book perspective on generational trauma and healing, sibling loss, love, multiple losses, addiction and recovery, spirituality and healing.

We discuss how to harness the power of various modalities like Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT), EMDR, meditation, spirituality, Imago Therapy, and more, to heal oneself, marriage, family, and how that healing ripples out to the community and beyond.

Amanda shares what it means to be "all in" and "let go".

She is available for speaking engagements, podcast and blog interviews, workshops, book clubs, and collaborations:

“Allow yourself to be loved when you hurt. Then allow yourself to become love. Then go love others.” — From Trust Yourself to Be All In

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Amanda McKoy Flanagan Buzzsprout-13338096 Thu, 03 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0400 3533 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, addiction, recovery, divorce, generational trauma, healing, EMDR, RRT, Rapid Resolution Therapy, Imago, meditation 1 9 full false Breaking the Silence on Preventable Stillbirth with Domenique Rice, TJ's Mom Breaking the Silence on Preventable Stillbirth with Domenique Rice, TJ's Mom The Ripple Effect: Conversations For Change Series

EP.8 Breaking the Silence on Preventable Stillbirth with Domenique Rice, TJ's Mom

In this moving episode, we have the honor of sitting down with Domenique Rice, a remarkable woman, friend, and Director of Operations for Push for Empowered Pregnancy, who unapologetically shares her story of enduring the devastating birth and stillbirth of her beloved son, TJ, and life thereafter as a mother to her children Heaven- and earth-side.

During this powerful interview, Domenique sheds light on the challenges that birthing parents often face within the U.S. healthcare system. She shares her own experiences and the ways in which she has sought to bring attention to the need for better support, empathy, and resources for parents who have experienced stillbirth.

We delve into Domenique's advocacy work with Push for Empowered Pregnancy, and the initiatives she has undertaken to raise awareness and promote empowered care for birthing parents and their support partners.

From collaborating with healthcare professionals to working with support groups and nonprofit organizations, she has become a driving force for change and a beacon of light for others facing similar journeys.

Links to Resources mentioned in this episode:

--

Disclaimer: This episode contains sensitive content related to stillbirth and infant loss. Listener discretion is advised.
The information discussed in this episode does not constitute medical or legal advice. Always consult your qualified medical care team or attorney for advice.

--

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> The Ripple Effect: Conversations For Change Series

EP.8 Breaking the Silence on Preventable Stillbirth with Domenique Rice, TJ's Mom

In this moving episode, we have the honor of sitting down with Domenique Rice, a remarkable woman, friend, and Director of Operations for Push for Empowered Pregnancy, who unapologetically shares her story of enduring the devastating birth and stillbirth of her beloved son, TJ, and life thereafter as a mother to her children Heaven- and earth-side.

During this powerful interview, Domenique sheds light on the challenges that birthing parents often face within the U.S. healthcare system. She shares her own experiences and the ways in which she has sought to bring attention to the need for better support, empathy, and resources for parents who have experienced stillbirth.

We delve into Domenique's advocacy work with Push for Empowered Pregnancy, and the initiatives she has undertaken to raise awareness and promote empowered care for birthing parents and their support partners.

From collaborating with healthcare professionals to working with support groups and nonprofit organizations, she has become a driving force for change and a beacon of light for others facing similar journeys.

Links to Resources mentioned in this episode:

--

Disclaimer: This episode contains sensitive content related to stillbirth and infant loss. Listener discretion is advised.
The information discussed in this episode does not constitute medical or legal advice. Always consult your qualified medical care team or attorney for advice.

--

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-13202536 Wed, 12 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400 2481 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, stillbirth, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, loss of a child, child loss, death, loss, pregnancy, miscarriage, motherhood, parenthood, fatherhood 1 8 full false Shining a Light on Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness, Community Support, Recovery and Change Shining a Light on Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness, Community Support, Recovery and Change Welcome to the first of a series of episodes called, "The Ripple Effect: Conversations for Change," where we explore pressing issues, and highlight inspiring individuals making a difference.

In this powerful episode, we delve into the critical topics of fentanyl, overdose prevention, harm reduction, recovery and hope.

Shining a light on these topics and addressing them openly and honestly is a step towards making a positive difference, unshaming, destigmatizing, and ultimately saving lives.

“Fentanyl is the single deadliest drug threat our nation has ever encountered. Fentanyl is everywhere. From large metropolitan areas to rural America, no community is safe from this poison. We must take every opportunity to spread the word to prevent fentanyl-related overdose death and poisonings for claiming scores of American lives everyday." - DEA.gov

Join us as we delve into the depths of this crisis with our special guest, Thomas Guerra, MS, CEO and Founder of f-fent.org, a Miami-based organization dedicated to lessening the risk of substance use through harm reduction and providing recovery support to individuals who ask for assistance.

He is also available for public speaking engagements.

Thomas may be reached via email at thomas@f-fent.org, or by phone at 786-387-5000.

Visit the following links for:

Enjoy an eye-opening conversation that explores the F-factor behind fentanyl and unveils strategies for raising awareness and fostering hope in the face of adversity.

---

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is not medical or legal advice. Please contact your local licensed professional for professional advice.

---

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Welcome to the first of a series of episodes called, "The Ripple Effect: Conversations for Change," where we explore pressing issues, and highlight inspiring individuals making a difference.

In this powerful episode, we delve into the critical topics of fentanyl, overdose prevention, harm reduction, recovery and hope.

Shining a light on these topics and addressing them openly and honestly is a step towards making a positive difference, unshaming, destigmatizing, and ultimately saving lives.

“Fentanyl is the single deadliest drug threat our nation has ever encountered. Fentanyl is everywhere. From large metropolitan areas to rural America, no community is safe from this poison. We must take every opportunity to spread the word to prevent fentanyl-related overdose death and poisonings for claiming scores of American lives everyday." - DEA.gov

Join us as we delve into the depths of this crisis with our special guest, Thomas Guerra, MS, CEO and Founder of f-fent.org, a Miami-based organization dedicated to lessening the risk of substance use through harm reduction and providing recovery support to individuals who ask for assistance.

He is also available for public speaking engagements.

Thomas may be reached via email at thomas@f-fent.org, or by phone at 786-387-5000.

Visit the following links for:

Enjoy an eye-opening conversation that explores the F-factor behind fentanyl and unveils strategies for raising awareness and fostering hope in the face of adversity.

---

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is not medical or legal advice. Please contact your local licensed professional for professional advice.

---

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez / Guest: Thomas Guerra Buzzsprout-13034411 Thu, 29 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400 2712 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, fentanyl, overdose, harm reduction, narcan, recovery, addiction, mental health, sobriety, sober living, substance use disorder 1 7 full true The Pain is Real, but the Suffering is Optional The Pain is Real, but the Suffering is Optional What is the difference between pain and suffering in grief?

Grief is an unwelcome companion that we never invite into our lives.

It barges in unannounced, shattering our world and leaving us to pick up the pieces.  It feels as if a part of us has been torn away, leaving behind an emptiness that seems impossible to fill.

But here's the thing, while the pain is undeniably real, the suffering can be optional. It's a choice we have the power to make. So today, I want to explore what it means to embrace our grief, find hope in the darkness, and integrate this experience into our lives -- how to separate pain from suffering in grief.

I'll address how showing yourself GRACE can be a powerful antidote against unnecessary suffering in your grief journey, and other tools that can help as we move forward in life.

I'd love to know how grace has showed up in your life and what "tools" have worked for you. Feel free to share via IG @griefandlight

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> What is the difference between pain and suffering in grief?

Grief is an unwelcome companion that we never invite into our lives.

It barges in unannounced, shattering our world and leaving us to pick up the pieces.  It feels as if a part of us has been torn away, leaving behind an emptiness that seems impossible to fill.

But here's the thing, while the pain is undeniably real, the suffering can be optional. It's a choice we have the power to make. So today, I want to explore what it means to embrace our grief, find hope in the darkness, and integrate this experience into our lives -- how to separate pain from suffering in grief.

I'll address how showing yourself GRACE can be a powerful antidote against unnecessary suffering in your grief journey, and other tools that can help as we move forward in life.

I'd love to know how grace has showed up in your life and what "tools" have worked for you. Feel free to share via IG @griefandlight

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-13096421 Fri, 23 Jun 2023 16:00:00 -0400 765 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, grace, hope 1 6 full false Father's Day Episode | A conversation with my father about befriending grief after losing a son Father's Day Episode | A conversation with my father about befriending grief after losing a son Father’s Day is around the corner, and if you know a father who has lost their son or daughter, or if you’ve lost your father, then you know it’s simply not the same.

Like many holidays, Father’s Day highlights the absence of our loved one no longer with us, and while many try to make it a joyful experience, fathers are often left to mask their feelings and suffer in silence.

Many men have been taught not to cry or feel their feelings. So they often end up repressing their human emotions, which leads to unnecessary pain and suffering for them, and those around them.

Grief needs an outlet, or it will consume us, whether we realize it or not.

That said, I’ve recently noticed a change where grieving men are starting to open about their grief experience around loss, particularly the loss of their child.

This perspective is so needed, because everyone grieves differently, and often men grieve in silence, which can result in pain and confusion for their spouse, children, and family.

It can seem like they don’t care, when in fact, they’re suffering in silence.

Part of my mission with this podcast is to bring these much-needed conversations to the surface – out in the open – so they can be explored without judgment.

So this Father’s Day, I decided to gift my dad the space to share his truth.

And my sincere hope is that in listening, you can feel a little less alone in your grief journey.

Wishing you a gentle Father's Day.

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Father’s Day is around the corner, and if you know a father who has lost their son or daughter, or if you’ve lost your father, then you know it’s simply not the same.

Like many holidays, Father’s Day highlights the absence of our loved one no longer with us, and while many try to make it a joyful experience, fathers are often left to mask their feelings and suffer in silence.

Many men have been taught not to cry or feel their feelings. So they often end up repressing their human emotions, which leads to unnecessary pain and suffering for them, and those around them.

Grief needs an outlet, or it will consume us, whether we realize it or not.

That said, I’ve recently noticed a change where grieving men are starting to open about their grief experience around loss, particularly the loss of their child.

This perspective is so needed, because everyone grieves differently, and often men grieve in silence, which can result in pain and confusion for their spouse, children, and family.

It can seem like they don’t care, when in fact, they’re suffering in silence.

Part of my mission with this podcast is to bring these much-needed conversations to the surface – out in the open – so they can be explored without judgment.

So this Father’s Day, I decided to gift my dad the space to share his truth.

And my sincere hope is that in listening, you can feel a little less alone in your grief journey.

Wishing you a gentle Father's Day.

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez, Joe Rodriguez Buzzsprout-13011434 Wed, 14 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0400 3230 father's day, grieving father, dad, child loss, loss of a son, loss of a daughter, loss of a child, grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss, hope, father, 1 5 full false Continuing Bonds: Death ends a life, but not a relationship | The evolution of grief Continuing Bonds: Death ends a life, but not a relationship | The evolution of grief Grief is such a common experience, and yet we seem to understand so little about it. 

For decades, many believe the "stages of grief" are the only way to "recover" from a loss -- a sort of process to complete so you can "go on with life". 

The bereaved and grieving know all too well this is not how it actually works.

In this episode, we'll look at the history and evolution of grief over time, and how perhaps the famous "stages of grief" are not what most believe them to be.

You'll learn about the recent evolution in grief support, and about the concept of Continuing Bonds, which emphasizes maintaining a relationship with your loved one who has passed, and finding ways to stay connected, even after death.

Sit back, relax and enjoy this episode full of information and discoveries that may help you navigate this reality with a bit more ease.

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Grief is such a common experience, and yet we seem to understand so little about it. 

For decades, many believe the "stages of grief" are the only way to "recover" from a loss -- a sort of process to complete so you can "go on with life". 

The bereaved and grieving know all too well this is not how it actually works.

In this episode, we'll look at the history and evolution of grief over time, and how perhaps the famous "stages of grief" are not what most believe them to be.

You'll learn about the recent evolution in grief support, and about the concept of Continuing Bonds, which emphasizes maintaining a relationship with your loved one who has passed, and finding ways to stay connected, even after death.

Sit back, relax and enjoy this episode full of information and discoveries that may help you navigate this reality with a bit more ease.

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-12913891 Thu, 25 May 2023 03:00:00 -0400 1823 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss 1 4 full false "People will say the darnedest things" to the grieving | What not to say to your grieving person "People will say the darnedest things" to the grieving | What not to say to your grieving person This episode is about people who say the darndest things to people who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

We live in a grief-averse society where big feelings and emotions are to be pushed away so we can move on with our lives.

Because of this, we are often ill-equipped to care for the bereaved and grieving.

The result?

Grievers end up on the receiving end of hurtful and awful “advice” or “support” from often well-meaning, grief-illiterate people. What some consider support, the grieving experience as painful words that slice our healing wounds wide open again.

In short, it causes unnecessary suffering to those of us already doing our best to survive the tragedy of loss.

I asked the @griefandlight Instagram community: “What have people told you after your loss that was unhelpful or painful?”

You may be shocked at the answers received.

Each one of their answers reveals some of the preconceived notions that non-grievers have about the grieving based on their particular loss, and this is what adds suffering to an already painful situation.

I also share a personal story of the day we met "John" at the funeral home where we held my brother's memorial, and the advice he shared as a grieving father himself.

Please note that it may be challenging to listen to this episode if you are in a tender stage of grief. Feel free to pause and return to it if/when you can. 

Thank you for being here.
Nina - Yosef's Sister

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

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Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
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]]> This episode is about people who say the darndest things to people who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

We live in a grief-averse society where big feelings and emotions are to be pushed away so we can move on with our lives.

Because of this, we are often ill-equipped to care for the bereaved and grieving.

The result?

Grievers end up on the receiving end of hurtful and awful “advice” or “support” from often well-meaning, grief-illiterate people. What some consider support, the grieving experience as painful words that slice our healing wounds wide open again.

In short, it causes unnecessary suffering to those of us already doing our best to survive the tragedy of loss.

I asked the @griefandlight Instagram community: “What have people told you after your loss that was unhelpful or painful?”

You may be shocked at the answers received.

Each one of their answers reveals some of the preconceived notions that non-grievers have about the grieving based on their particular loss, and this is what adds suffering to an already painful situation.

I also share a personal story of the day we met "John" at the funeral home where we held my brother's memorial, and the advice he shared as a grieving father himself.

Please note that it may be challenging to listen to this episode if you are in a tender stage of grief. Feel free to pause and return to it if/when you can. 

Thank you for being here.
Nina - Yosef's Sister

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-12824600 Thu, 11 May 2023 03:00:00 -0400 1205 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss 1 3 full false What is "Felicitreza" or "happy-sadness" in grief? What is "Felicitreza" or "happy-sadness" in grief? It's the week after Easter Sunday and Sibling Grief Monday.

How's your grief hangover? I hope you're taking care of yourself.

In this episode, I share a physical grief-related experience that let me to understand one of the deepest truths about grief -- that grief is not this OR that; it's this AND that. I named this concept "felicitreza", or happy-sadness in English.

Grief is a million shades of grey, AND a magnificent colorwheel of emotions. That's why the experience can feel so complex and foreign to us in the beginning, and as it evolves with us through time.

I'll also discuss how finding your community in grief, or "grief tribe", can be key to your survival and even help you thrive in life after loss.

My hope is to make you feel less alone, and to be a beacon of light and source of information for anyone on this journey.

Thank you for being here.
Nina -- Yosef's Sister

Disclaimer: The content shared in the Grief and Light podcast and related platforms is not medical or legal advice. If you need help, please seek the appropriate licensed medical or legal professional, or emergency service in your area.

---

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> It's the week after Easter Sunday and Sibling Grief Monday.

How's your grief hangover? I hope you're taking care of yourself.

In this episode, I share a physical grief-related experience that let me to understand one of the deepest truths about grief -- that grief is not this OR that; it's this AND that. I named this concept "felicitreza", or happy-sadness in English.

Grief is a million shades of grey, AND a magnificent colorwheel of emotions. That's why the experience can feel so complex and foreign to us in the beginning, and as it evolves with us through time.

I'll also discuss how finding your community in grief, or "grief tribe", can be key to your survival and even help you thrive in life after loss.

My hope is to make you feel less alone, and to be a beacon of light and source of information for anyone on this journey.

Thank you for being here.
Nina -- Yosef's Sister

Disclaimer: The content shared in the Grief and Light podcast and related platforms is not medical or legal advice. If you need help, please seek the appropriate licensed medical or legal professional, or emergency service in your area.

---

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: https://www.griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast

Want to sponsor an episode? Contact us via info@griefandlight.com.

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nina Rodriguez Buzzsprout-12638940 Wed, 12 Apr 2023 16:00:00 -0400 1095 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss 1 2 full false EP.1 THE Call & The Calling | Losing your only sibling | Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy, Broken-Heart Syndrome EP.1 THE Call & The Calling | Losing your only sibling | Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy, Broken-Heart Syndrome Welcome to my podcast launch! 

This is a space created for you by someone who gets it – your grief; your foundation-shattering reality;  and the question of what the heck do we do with all of these shattered pieces of life and loss around us.

It’s also for the listener who wants to better understand their loved one who is grieving, perhaps wants to learn how to help, or just wants to be more grief-literate.

In this episode, I'll share my personal story of the sudden loss of my younger brother, only sibling, a day after we celebrated his 32nd birthday. I'll also go into how that loss, trauma, and grief catapulted me into a truth-seeking journey, which ultimately led me to answer "the calling" of creating this space I now call Grief and Light. 

My hope is to make you feel less alone, and to be a beacon of light and source of information for anyone embarking on this journey.

Thank you for being here.
Nina -- Yosef's Sister

Quick Finds:

  • [0:20]      Who is this for? 
  • [1:50]      Anne Lemott Quote 
  • [3:21]      Grief and Light was born... 
  • [3:40]      The Call 
  • [10:18]   Loss fundamentally changes us 
  • [10:34]   Shattered Assumptions 
  • [11:11]   The Calling 
  • [12:12]   Sacred Survival 
  • [12:38]   Can you die from grief? 
  • [12:52]   Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy aka Broken-Heart Syndrome 
  • [14:25]   Disclaimer 
  • [15:42]   Expanded Purpose
  • [16:18]   Forgotten Mourners
  • [17:32]   Let's connect!


Referenced Articles & Books:

Harvard Health Article about Tako-tsubo heart: https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/takotsubo-cardiomyopathy-broken-heart-syndrome

"Shattered Assumptions: Towards a New Psychology of Trauma" by Ronnie Janoff-Bulman 

Want to share your story?
Please contact me via IG @griefandlight  or visit griefandlight.com

Disclaimer: The content shared in Grief and Light podcast and related platforms is not medical or legal advise. Should you need help, please seek out the appropriate licensed medical or legal professional, or emergency service in your area.

---

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Welcome to my podcast launch! 

This is a space created for you by someone who gets it – your grief; your foundation-shattering reality;  and the question of what the heck do we do with all of these shattered pieces of life and loss around us.

It’s also for the listener who wants to better understand their loved one who is grieving, perhaps wants to learn how to help, or just wants to be more grief-literate.

In this episode, I'll share my personal story of the sudden loss of my younger brother, only sibling, a day after we celebrated his 32nd birthday. I'll also go into how that loss, trauma, and grief catapulted me into a truth-seeking journey, which ultimately led me to answer "the calling" of creating this space I now call Grief and Light. 

My hope is to make you feel less alone, and to be a beacon of light and source of information for anyone embarking on this journey.

Thank you for being here.
Nina -- Yosef's Sister

Quick Finds:

  • [0:20]      Who is this for? 
  • [1:50]      Anne Lemott Quote 
  • [3:21]      Grief and Light was born... 
  • [3:40]      The Call 
  • [10:18]   Loss fundamentally changes us 
  • [10:34]   Shattered Assumptions 
  • [11:11]   The Calling 
  • [12:12]   Sacred Survival 
  • [12:38]   Can you die from grief? 
  • [12:52]   Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy aka Broken-Heart Syndrome 
  • [14:25]   Disclaimer 
  • [15:42]   Expanded Purpose
  • [16:18]   Forgotten Mourners
  • [17:32]   Let's connect!


Referenced Articles & Books:

Harvard Health Article about Tako-tsubo heart: https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/takotsubo-cardiomyopathy-broken-heart-syndrome

"Shattered Assumptions: Towards a New Psychology of Trauma" by Ronnie Janoff-Bulman 

Want to share your story?
Please contact me via IG @griefandlight  or visit griefandlight.com

Disclaimer: The content shared in Grief and Light podcast and related platforms is not medical or legal advise. Should you need help, please seek out the appropriate licensed medical or legal professional, or emergency service in your area.

---

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Send a text

Support the show

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Grief and Light is an award-winning. independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, and deeply human experience of loss. New episodes wherever you listen.

Thank you for listening!

If this conversation resonated with you:

✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
✅ Follow Grief and Light so you never miss a conversation
✅ Leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more hearts

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

]]> Nadjalisse Buzzsprout-12549584 Thu, 30 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0400 1082 grief, loss, bereavement, life after loss, sibling loss, continuing bonds, stages of grief, grief support, loss of a loved one, death, loss 1 1 full true