Can We Really Rise from the Ashes? Discovering What Personal Growth After Loss Looks Like.

In this episode of the Growth After Loss Podcast, Dr. Mari Marquez, Ph.D., Personal Growth Educator, explores the concepts of personal growth and post-traumatic growth after the death of a loved one. This conversation is grounded in research, lived experience, and deep respect for the reality of grief and living with loss.

This episode is especially meaningful for listeners who are further along in their grief journey and beginning to reflect on how life can continue alongside grief—without rushing, minimizing pain, or forcing toxic positivity.

In this episode, Dr. Mari Marquez discusses:

How growth and grief can coexist over time.

Common misconceptions about post-traumatic growth.

The importance of support, community, and patience.

Research insights from her own studies on growth after the loss of a significant loved one.

This podcast is educational in nature and not a substitute for therapy. If you are seeking additional support, connecting with a licensed mental health professional or a grief-informed community may be helpful.

✨ Coming Soon:
Dr. Mari Marquez shares details about her upcoming Growth After Loss Initiative Program (2026)—a research-informed educational program focused on a step-by-step approach to help you find supportive strategies and concepts that resonate with you, which can help nurture your personal growth and help you navigate your grief after the loss of a loved one(s).

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: Some links below are affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

My Children's Books – Written by Dr. Mari Marquez:

The Magical Soul: https://amzn.to/48CcKqa

I Love You Always & Forever: https://amzn.to/48XZzid

Referenced in the Show:

Good Morning, I Love You by Dr. Shauna Shapiro: https://amzn.to/49bw4e0

Subscribe for more episodes on grief education, lived experience, and growth after loss.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:18 When Growth Conversations May Feel Too Soon
02:40 Imagining Life Alongside Grief
07:35 Personal Growth & Post-Traumatic Growth Explained
14:51 The Role of Support & Community
30:28 Reflection & Gentle Intention
31:53 Program Announcement & Closing

The Power of a "Three Letter Word: Introduction to the Growth After Loss Podcast

Welcome to the first episode of the Growth After Loss podcast with Dr. Mari Marquez. In this episode, Dr. Mari shares her personal journey through grief after losing her father and husband. She explores the definition and impact of grief based on insights from the American Psychological Association, practical exercises for managing grief, and the importance of seeking support. Dr. Mari reflects on her own research in psychology, focusing on personal and post-traumatic growth after significant loss. The episode encourages listeners to embrace new opportunities and take small, intentional steps toward a life filled with joy, meaning, and purpose.

Subscribe for more episodes on research-based information on personal growth after loss.

00:00 Introduction: Navigating Life After Loss

02:16 Welcome to the Growth After Loss Podcast

04:13 Understanding Grief: Insights from the APA

06:23 Personal Story: My Journey Through Grief

11:51 The Power of a Three Letter Word

13:49 Steps to Personal Growth After Loss

20:18 Final Thoughts and Encouragement