Rooted and Real : Raw Discussions

Grief Unfiltered — Episode 2: When the World Moves On

In Episode 2 of Grief Unfiltered, we sit with the quiet, aching reality of grief after the initial support fades—when life keeps moving, but you’re still standing in the same place. This conversation explores what it feels like when check-ins slow down, expectations return, and the world seems to forget what you’re still carrying.

We talk honestly about the loneliness, resentment, pressure to “be okay,” and the internal conflict of wanting to heal while still honoring your loss. No fixing. No forced positivity. Just raw reflections on living in grief while the rest of the world moves on.

Rooted. Real. Unfiltered.

Find us on Facebook, Instagram & Tik Tok

Email the show at Rooted [email protected]

Show Themes " Light that Never Goes Out" and "Rooted in the Dark" created and copyrighted by AJ Riley

In this raw and honest first episode of Grief Unfiltered, we dive deep into the complexities of grief—breaking away from the typical “5 stages” narrative to explore grief in its true, unfiltered form. Our hosts share their personal experiences with loss, opening up about the unexpected emotions, the weight of unspoken thoughts, and the vulnerability that comes with navigating grief. We also talk about the often overlooked aspects of grief, like the pressure to "move on" and how grief isn't something that follows a linear path. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that sets the stage for understanding grief in a more authentic, human way.

This is just the beginning of a 3-part series, where we explore grief from multiple perspectives—starting with the emotional and mental layers that shape our healing journey.

Find us on Facebook, Instagram & Tik Tok

Podcast theme songs "Rooted" and "A Light that Never Goes Out" are copyrighted and created by AJ Riley

As the Advent season comes to a close, we turn our focus to the final two candles and where they fall within the Christmas timeline. In this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions, we reflect on what these candles represent, how they prepare our hearts for the birth of Christ, and why slowing down in this sacred season matters more than ever.

Through Scripture, reflection, and honest conversation, this episode invites you to pause, remember the true meaning of Christmas, and walk fully into hope, peace, joy, and love. Whether you’ve followed along through the entire Advent series or are joining us for the first time, this conversation is meant to meet you right where you are.

🎙️ The Advent Timeline: The Final Two Candles

Available now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify

💛 If this episode encourages you, please consider liking, following, and sharing the podcast with friends or family.

📲 Connect with us:

Follow Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok

📧 Email the show: [email protected]

Stay rooted. Stay real.

In this episode of Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions, we reflect on the third week of Advent and the Candle of Joy. This conversation explores what it means to live out true joy—not as a fleeting feeling, but as a response to God’s presence in our everyday lives. As the season unfolds, we’re reminded that joy is rooted in Emmanuel, God with us, even in the midst of real life.

Find us on Instagram and Facebook and email the show at [email protected]

Show Theme Songs "Rooted" and 'Roots of Grace" Created and Copyrighted by AJ Riley

In this deeply reflective episode of Rooted and Real, we journey through the Advent season, exploring its rich timeline and spiritual significance. From the anticipation of Christ's birth to the hope, peace, joy, and love that the season represents, we dive into the deeper meaning behind each week leading up to Christmas. Special focus is given to the second candle of Advent, known as the "Candle of Peace." Join us as we discuss how this symbol encourages inner peace, reconciliation, and the promise of peace through Christ’s arrival. Whether you're new to the Advent tradition or seeking deeper insights, this episode offers a raw and honest look at how we can live out the Advent season in a grounded and real way.

Find us on Facebook and Instagram, and email the show at [email protected].
Show Themes "Roots" and "Roots of Grace" Created and Copyright to AJ Riley.

In this heartfelt episode of Rooted and Real, we begin our Advent journey with the first candle—the Candle of Hope. Join us as we lean into the raw, honest places where hope is both fiercely needed and deeply felt. We unpack what “hope” truly means in seasons of waiting, uncertainty, and longing, and how the Advent story invites us to anchor ourselves in something steady, ancient, and life-giving.

Through real conversations, reflection, and spiritual grounding, we explore how hope shows up in our everyday struggles, why it matters now more than ever, and how we can cultivate it even when the world feels dim. Whether you’re familiar with the Advent tradition or simply craving a moment of connection and encouragement, this episode offers a fresh, rooted perspective on the light that begins the journey.

Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Email the show [email protected]

Show Themes "Roots" & "Roots of Grace" Created and Copyrighted to AJ Riley

In this powerful episode of Rooted and Real, the men of The Foxhole—Troy, Michael, Eric, Greg, Charlie, Tyler, Zo, and Mark—gather for an insightful roundtable discussion on the healing of the paralyzed man in Luke 5:17-26. Together, they dive into the themes of faith, community, and the boldness it takes to bring others to Jesus. As they reflect on the story of the friends who went above and beyond to lower their paralyzed friend through a roof for healing, the conversation delves deep into what it means to carry each other’s burdens, trust in God's power, and act in faith even when the odds seem stacked against us. This episode is packed with raw insights, real-life application, and thought-provoking takeaways that will challenge and inspire you in your own walk of faith.

Join us for an authentic, thought-provoking discussion that brings scripture to life in a way that’s both personal and practical.

Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Email the show [email protected]

Show Themes "Rooted" & "Roots of Grace" composed and copyrighted by AJ Riley

In this reflective pre-Advent episode, we pause before the season of anticipation begins. Pre-Advent: The Calm Before the Hope invites listeners into a quiet, honest space—one where stillness meets longing and faith meets real-life tension.

Join us as we explore what it means to wait well: the emotional, spiritual, and practical realities of preparing our hearts before the celebration of Advent truly begins. We talk about the beauty of slowing down, the discomfort of uncertainty, and the sacredness of hope that hasn’t yet arrived.

This isn’t a polished holiday message—it’s a raw, grounded conversation for anyone who’s navigating transition, seeking peace, or longing for deeper meaning as the season unfolds.

Step into the calm. Sit with the quiet. And discover the hope that’s already taking shape in the stillness.

Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Email the show at [email protected]

Show Theme Songs "Roots" & "Roots of Grace" Copyrighted and Composed by AJ Riley

In this honest and vulnerable conversation, we dive into a topic that too often goes unspoken — church hurt. From broken trust to unmet expectations, many have silently carried wounds from places meant to offer healing.

Join us as we unpack the pain, the confusion, and the journey toward restoration. We’ll talk about how to recognize spiritual and emotional harm, the difference between human failure and God’s faithfulness, and what it looks like to rediscover genuine community after being hurt by the church.

This isn’t about blame — it’s about honesty, healing, and finding our way back to a faith that’s real, rooted, and raw.

🌿 Connect with Us:
Find us on Facebook and Instagram — just search Rooted and Real: Raw Discussions.
Have thoughts or a story to share? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Rooted and Real, we sit down with Michael Peach for an honest and insightful conversation about what discipleship looks like in today’s world. Together, we unpack how following Jesus goes beyond Sunday services—touching every part of our lives, relationships, and communities. Michael shares personal stories, practical wisdom, and challenges the church to rediscover authentic discipleship in a fast-paced, digital culture.

Whether you’re a seasoned believer, a new follower, or just curious about what it means to live out your faith, this raw and real discussion will encourage and equip you to walk more intentionally with Christ—right where you are.

👉 Connect with us:
Find us on Facebook and Instagram, and email the show at [email protected]

Theme Songs "Roots" & "Roots of Grace" Copyrighted by AJ Riley