Grief and Light™

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.   

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Click here to watch on YouTube

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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.

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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

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Buy me a Coffee

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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. 

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Click here to watch on YouTube

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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

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Buy me a Coffee

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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.

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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

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Buy me a Coffee

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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.

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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

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Buy me a Coffee

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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:

• @grief2growth
• grief2growth.com
• Book | Grief2Growth: Planted, Not Buried

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

• @griefandlight
• griefandlight.com

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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:

• @drmonicapharmd
• @pocketsofsunishine
• Book: Finding Pockets of Sunshine

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

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

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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 virtual space to navigate grief, together.

Connect with Impacted Survivors:

• impactedsurvivors.com
• @impactedsurvivorsofms

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

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

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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.

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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:

• @rosemerry.trommer
• wordwoman.com
• Evermore
• Purchase her Books
• Buy The Unfolding
• Sign up to receive a free daily poem

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

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

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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.

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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:

• erinblechman.com
• @erin.blechman
• Facebook

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

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

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

Subscribe to the newsletter

🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

Full Disclaimer

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.

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.
• We need to normalize conversations about grief and loss.

Connect with Matt Gilhooly:

• lifeshiftpodcast.com
• @thelifeshiftpodcast
• YouTube

Referenced in episode:

• lapoflove.com
• Coping with Pet Loss: Saying Goodbye to Mikey

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Grief and Light™ is an award-winning, independent podcast exploring the honest, messy, deeply human experience of loss and grief.

Grief-fluency is a life-affirming skill we were never taught. We're here to change that.

Hosted by grief-informed guide and sibling loss survivor Nina Rodriguez, the show fosters a more grief-informed, hopeful world, one conversation at a time. At its heart is one belief: to grieve fully is to live fully. 

Now in Season 5, with 130+ episodes, the show features changemakers, researchers, creatives, and leaders exploring loss, identity, uncertainty, and what it means to keep living when life changes.

Connect with Nina: Website · Instagram · Substack

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🏆 Ear Worthy Best Life Lessons 2026 · Signal Awards Silver Winner 2026 · TalkDeath Readers’ Choice Best Podcast 2025 · 2× Women Who Podcast Awards Winner · Podground Editor’s Pick 2026

DISCLAIMER: Grief and Light™ is hosted by a grief-informed guide, not a licensed therapist, doctor, or attorney. Nothing shared here is intended as therapy, medical advice, or legal counsel. Seek qualified support.

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