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

• Medium & Mentor
• karendocherty.com
• Facebook
• @karendochertyspiritmedium

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

• Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
• griefandlight.com
• @griefandlight
• Resting Grief Face on Substack

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

• Grief Tending Toolkit
• Access our online community

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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:

• Award-Winning Podcast Announcement on IG
• Live Conversation replay on IG

Grief Support Resources for the Road:

• Grief Tending Toolkit
• Access our online community

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

• Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
• griefandlight.com
• @griefandlight
• Resting Grief Face on Substack

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

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Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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

• heartstringsjournals.com
• Submit your story to Paths of Purpose
• Shop HeartStrings Journals
• @heart_stringsjournals

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

• Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
• griefandlight.com
• @griefandlight
• Resting Grief Face on Substack

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

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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

• Grief Sucks!
• Experience Camps
• Freeway Ride
• michellecove.com

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

• Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
• griefandlight.com
• @griefandlight
• Resting Grief Face on Substack

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

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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

• senderomovie.com
• IMDB
• @dogs_on_the_sendero

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

• Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
• griefandlight.com
• @griefandlight
• Resting Grief Face on Substack

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

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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

• sacredlessons.com
• Get the book
• Instagram: @mrmikedelarocha
• Photo Credit: Wade Brands

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

• Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
• Learn more: griefandlight.com
• Instagram: @griefandlight

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

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Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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:

• Trillium Gift of Life Network
• Red Sneakers for Oakley
• Natasha Allergy Research Foundation

Guest: Maryam de Groef

• Instagram: @maryamdegroef
• Personal website

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

• Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
• Learn more: griefandlight.com
• Instagram: @griefandlight

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

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Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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

•  Founder, Begin With The End
•  beginwiththeend.co
•  Instagram: @beginwith_theend

Hosted by: Nina Rodriguez

• Creator of Grief and Light, Grief Guide
• Learn more: griefandlight.com
• Instagram: @griefandlight

Take action today:

✅ Create or update your will
✅ Have a conversation about end-of-life wishes with someone you love
✅ Organize one part of your digital life
✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it

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

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Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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:

• Grief Tending Toolkit
• Access our online community

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:

• Janet Gwilliam-Wright on a mission to build compassionate organizations
• Grieving with Grace: Dr. Mekel Harris' Grief-Informed Approach to Relaxing into the Pain
• 5 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Grief-Informed Clinician

Connect with Bloomwell Partners:

• growwithbloomwell.com
• bloomwellpartners@gmail.com
• IG: @bloomwellpartners

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• IG: @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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:

• Substack article: The Grief of Uncertainty in Unprecedented Times
• Podcast episode: Grief vs. Grieving
• Podcast Episode: The Liminality of Grief

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:

• Grief Tending Toolkit
• Access our online community

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• IG: @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Subscribe to my newsletter

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Support the show

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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:

• jodygelb.com
• Buy the book
• About Lueza

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.

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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:

• Contact: bryan@coatsplusfoundation.com
• Visit: coatsplusfoundation.com
• Donate to the Coats Plus Foundation
• (June 13th) Father's Day Tournament

***

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.
• Presence is everything. Ethan’s life taught them to cherish every moment.
• Taking action, through storytelling, fundraising, or showing up can be a form of healing.
• You can be in grief and in joy; it’s not either/or—it’s both/and.

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Support the show

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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:

• @thepetlosscounsellor
• More than 'Just a Dog' - The Pet Loss Podcast
• thepetlosscounsellor.com

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

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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:

• @healing_hearts_podcast
• Healing Hearts Podcast

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• IG: @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support

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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?”

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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:

• IG: @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Hire Nina as a guest speaker
• Subscribe to my newsletter
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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:

• nicoslate.com
• Buy his Books

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support

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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.

***
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***

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:

• Website & Book: paulasager.com
• The Watch on Bookshop
• Befriending the Unknown: A Simple Practice
• IG: @body.and.word

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• IG: @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Subscribe to my newsletter

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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:

• lisakeefauver.com
• AFGO Substack
• Get the Book
• Listen to Grief is a Sneaky Bitch Podcast
• @lisakeefauvermsw

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• IG: @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Join Grief and Light: The Community

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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:

• IG: @widowhood_real_talk_with_tina
• Facebook
• widowhood-realtalkwithtina.org

Related episode: Forever my brother: a journey through grief and light

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• IG: @griefandlight
• Website: griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Join Grief and Light: The Community

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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:

• IG: @griefandlight
• Website: griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Subscribe to my newsletter
• View upcoming events
• Join Grief and Light: The Community

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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:

• IG: @griefandlight
• Website: griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Hire Nina as a guest speaker
• Subscribe to my newsletter
• View upcoming events
• Join Grief and Light: The Community

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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:

• thegriefgirlie.com
• @thegriefgirlie

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• IG: @griefandlight
• Website: griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Hire Nina as a guest speaker
• Subscribe to my newsletter
• View upcoming events
• Join Grief and Light: The Community

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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:

• IG: @griefandlight
• Website: griefandlight.com
• 1:1 Grief Support
• Hire Nina as a guest speaker
• Subscribe to my newsletter
• View upcoming events
• Join Grief and Light: The Community

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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:

• IG: @griefandlight
• Website: griefandlight.com
• Hire Nina as a guest speaker
• 1:1 Grief Support (Use code GRIEFMAS25 for a 25% discount on any 1:1 grief support service. Valid until January 30th, 2025.)
• Subscribe to my newsletter
• View upcoming events
• Join Grief and Light: The Community

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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:

• IG: @griefandlight
• Website: griefandlight.com
• Hire Nina as a guest speaker
• 1:1 Grief Support (Use code GRIEFMAS25 for a 25% discount on any 1:1 grief support service. Valid until January 30th, 2025.)
• Subscribe to my newsletter
• View upcoming events
• Join Grief and Light: The Community

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