GRIEF AND LIGHT

Nina Rodriguez

This space was created for you by someone who gets it – your grief, your foundation-shattering reality, and the question of what the heck do we do with the shattered pieces of life and loss around us.
It’s also for the listener who wants to better understand their grieving person, and perhaps wants to learn how to help.
Now in its fourth season, the Grief and Light Podcast features both solo episodes and interviews with first-hand experiencers, authors, and professionals, who shine a light on the broad spectrum of experiences, feelings, secondary losses, and takeaways.
As a bereaved sister, I share my personal story of the sudden loss of my younger brother, only sibling, one day after we celebrated his 32nd birthday. I also delve into how that loss, trauma, and grief catapulted me into a truth-seeking journey, which ultimately led me to answer "the calling" of creating this space I now call Grief and Light.
Since launching the first episode on March 30, 2023, the Grief and Light podcast and social platforms have evolved into a powerful resource for grief-informed support, including one-on-one grief guidance, monthly grief circles, community, and much more.
With each episode, you can expect open and authentic conversations sharing our truth, and explorations of how to transmute the grief experience into meaning, and even joy.
My hope is to make you feel less alone, and to be a beacon of light and source of information for anyone embarking on this journey.
"We're all just walking each other HOME." - Ram Dass
Thank you for being here.
We're in this together.
Nina, Yosef's Sister
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To sponsor an episode, please contact: [email protected]To be a guest on the podcast, please visit: https://www.griefandlight.com/podcast

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Top 10 GRIEF AND LIGHT Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best GRIEF AND LIGHT episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to GRIEF AND LIGHT for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite GRIEF AND LIGHT episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

"To Kera - Love, Mom" | Getting Griefy and Leaving No Legacy Behind with Kera Sanchez

GRIEF AND LIGHT

04/02/24 • 44 min

In this episode, we deep dive into the reality of experiencing life's duality in its fullness as guest, Kera Sanchez, experienced both the birth of her daughter and the unexpected loss of her mother only a few days apart.
She shares how her grief left her with no choice but to turn "lemons into lemonade" as she learned to navigate loss and joy through the power of dark humor and community.
Kera channeled her love for her mother through her creative gifts, creating legacy journals, a first-of-its-kind magazine for grievers, and a welcoming space for all through her social media channels.
Kera Sanchez is a High School Spanish teacher in the Chicago area, a wife, and mom of two. After her mom unexpectedly died while on vacation in Italy at the age of 57, she dove deep into a grief journey, where she channeled her unexpressed love in the form of the Legacy Letters guided journal, offering a way to write and leave handwritten legacies of love, advice, and support for loved ones, to ensure families all over the world don't have to face unexpected loss without a legacy left behind. She also released a second journal, "No Legacy Lost", a guided memory and grief journal. Through her Instagram community, she pokes fun at her grief journey with relatable memes and dark humor. In early 2024, she launched Get Griefy Magazine, as a community outlet for grievers to publish their poetry, writing, art, photography, and more.
Kera Sanchez Social & Website:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

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#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast
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Grief vs. Grieving: Why the Difference Matters

GRIEF AND LIGHT

04/23/25 • 15 min

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:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
Interested in Sponsoring our Podcast?
Please message us at [email protected].

"Griefmas" & Griefy Holidays: Your Survival Guide for When Life Doesn't Feel Merry or Bright

GRIEF AND LIGHT

12/18/24 • 33 min

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

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Buy me a Coffee

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
Interested in Sponsoring our Podcast?
Please message us at [email protected].

LIFE SHIFT: Matt Gilhooly on grieving loved ones, pet loss, and healing through storytelling

GRIEF AND LIGHT

10/29/24 • 63 min

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.
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Watch on YouTube
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Takeaways:

The stories we carry shape our identities and connections.
Grief often intertwines with trauma, especially in childhood.
Children may not fully grasp the concept of death and grief.
Perfectionism can stem from a desire to mask grief.
Processing grief can take decades and may not follow a linear path.
Anticipatory loss allows for meaningful conversations and closure.
Grief is not just about the loss of a person, but also the loss of potential experiences.
Open communication is crucial in navigating relationships during grief.
Understanding one's grief journey can lead to personal growth.
Healing from grief involves recognizing and addressing past traumas.
It's important to have open conversations about grief with family.
Writing can be a powerful tool for processing grief.
Creating a podcast allowed for sharing and healing through stories.
Pet loss can be as profound as losing a human loved one.
Making decisions for a pet's end-of-life care is incredibly difficult.
Sharing our stories helps others feel less alone in their grief.
We need to normalize conversations about grief and loss.

Connect with Matt Gilhooly:

Referenced in episode:

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

Join THE COMMUNITY
Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
Interested in Sponsoring our Podcast?
Please message us at [email protected].

Showing Up Meaningfully in 2025: Evolving from "Me" to "We"

GRIEF AND LIGHT

02/06/25 • 34 min

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:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers
Buy me a Coffee

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
Interested in Sponsoring our Podcast?
Please message us at [email protected].

The Liminality of Grief: Embracing who you are becoming

GRIEF AND LIGHT

02/25/25 • 29 min

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

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

***

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

***

Click here to watch on YouTube

***

Takeaways:

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

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers
Buy me a Coffee

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
Interested in Sponsoring our Podcast?
Please message us at [email protected].

LOVE, LOSS & LOL: Finding the gifts in the midst of life’s sh*t with Lindsey Kane Leaverton

GRIEF AND LIGHT

04/16/24 • 49 min

“Not everything happens for a reason, but sacred gifts MAY be found in everything that happens – even (and especially) in the most painful things.” – Not Another Self-Help Book

That’s a quote from the newly published Amazon best-seller titled, "Not Another Self-Help Book: Finding Gifts in the Midst of Life's Sh*t," by guest, Lindsey Kane Leaverton, who bravely shares her personal journey through grief, loss, and trauma, navigating life's challenges with resilience and humor.
A multifaceted individual, Lindsey serves as the director of wealth management at a boutique financial planning firm in Austin.
She has seven recorded albums under her belt, is a self-taught guitarist and vocalist, a mother of three, an Amazon best-selling author, and has been featured on The Today Show, The New York Times, People Magazine, and TIME.
Beyond her professional pursuits, she has a strong sense of faith, a vibrant personality, and not-so-secretly dreams of pursuing a career as a stand-up comedian someday.
In this candid episode, we delve into various pivotal moments that shaped Lindsey's life and personal story, including undergoing conversion therapy, reconciling her faith and lived reality within a conservative religious community, experiencing various traumas, losses, and finding the little miracles and hope in life's most challenging moments.

Lindsey Kane Leaverton's Social & Website:

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers
#griefandlight #griefandlightpodcast
Interested in sponsoring an episode? Contact us via [email protected].

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
Interested in Sponsoring our Podcast?
Please message us at [email protected].

The First Five Years of Grief | Season 3 Premiere

GRIEF AND LIGHT

06/20/24 • 32 min

The first five years of grief:

Year One: Shock and Fog
Year Two: Year of Permanence
Year Three: The Year of Inflammation and New Normals
Year Four: The Pivot Year
Year Five: The Year of Rebirth

In this episode, Nina Rodriguez reflects on the first five years of her grief journey after the loss of her brother. She shares the different stages and experiences she went through, and discusses the importance of allowing grief to unfold in its own time, and the physical impact it can have on the body. Nina also emphasizes the need for self-care and finding joy amidst grief. The episode concludes with a preview of what to expect in the upcoming season of the podcast.
Takeaways

Grief is a journey that unfolds in its own time and can be different for everyone.
The first five years of grief can be characterized by different stages and experiences.
Allowing grief to be felt and processed is important for healing.
Grief can have physical effects on the body, and self-care is crucial.
Finding joy and embracing new normals can be part of the grief journey.
Sharing stories and experiences can create a more grief-informed and supportive world.

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
09:51 Reflecting on the First Five Years of Grief
11:44 Year One: Shock and Fog
16:55 Year Two: Year of Permanence
21:12 Year Three: The Year of Inflammation and New Normals
23:16 Year Four: The Pivot Year
26:06 Year Five: The Year of Rebirth
30:44 Preview of Season Three
Related Episodes

Nina Rodriguez Social & Website

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
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Please message us at [email protected].

Soul Pets and Sacred Goodbyes: Grant Hazell on the Grief of Pet Loss

GRIEF AND LIGHT

05/20/25 • 56 min

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:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
Interested in Sponsoring our Podcast?
Please message us at [email protected].

Embracing what is with Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer

GRIEF AND LIGHT

11/12/24 • 62 min

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
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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:

Connect with Nina Rodriguez:

Disclaimer: griefandlight.com/safetyanddisclaimers

Support the show

Thank you for listening! Please share with someone who may need to hear this.
Interested in Sponsoring our Podcast?
Please message us at [email protected].

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FAQ

How many episodes does GRIEF AND LIGHT have?

GRIEF AND LIGHT currently has 73 episodes available.

What topics does GRIEF AND LIGHT cover?

The podcast is about Addiction, Health & Fitness, Society & Culture, Grief, Mental Health, Self Help, Podcasts, Trauma, Loss, Relationships and Death.

What is the most popular episode on GRIEF AND LIGHT?

The episode title '"People will say the darnedest things" to the grieving | What not to say to your grieving person' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on GRIEF AND LIGHT?

The average episode length on GRIEF AND LIGHT is 45 minutes.

How often are episodes of GRIEF AND LIGHT released?

Episodes of GRIEF AND LIGHT are typically released every 7 days, 4 hours.

When was the first episode of GRIEF AND LIGHT?

The first episode of GRIEF AND LIGHT was released on Mar 30, 2023.

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GRIEF AND LIGHT

Nina Rodriguez

Top 10 GRIEF AND LIGHT Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does GRIEF AND LIGHT have?

What topics does GRIEF AND LIGHT cover?

What is the most popular episode on GRIEF AND LIGHT?

What is the average episode length on GRIEF AND LIGHT?

How often are episodes of GRIEF AND LIGHT released?

When was the first episode of GRIEF AND LIGHT?

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