Episode 163

Grief Rituals For Uncertain Times with Francis Weller

Published on: 28th July, 2025

How can we respond to uncertainty and loss with the power of soul work? In this episode of The Wise Effort Show, Dr. Diana Hill speaks with Francis Weller, an influential author and psychotherapist, about confronting the 'long dark' — a term he uses to describe our collective and individual challenges. Weller emphasizes the importance of community, imagination, and ritual in overcoming grief and trauma. They discuss key concepts from his book, 'In the Absence of the Ordinary: Soul Work for Times of Uncertainty,' and explore practical ways to engage in soul work and build resilience. Listen to this episode to uncover how these practices can help you navigate difficult times and become more connected to yourself and others.

In This Episode, We Explore:

  • The Long Dark
  • Rediscovering Rituals in Uncertain Times
  • The Power of Grief Rituals
  • Creating a Holding Vessel for Grief
  • Finding Healing in Community
  • The Medicine for the Long Dark

Suggested Next Episode:

Episode 157: The Medicine of Surrender, Poetry, and Metaphor With Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer.

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Thanks to the team, Craig and Ashley Hiatt, and Benjamin Gould of Bell & Branch for your beautiful music.

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Come to the Tell the Truth Salon on October 1

See Diana Hill and Rosemerry Trommer during this special live event. Join in-person and live stream.

Tell the Truth Salon Series

Come to the Tell the Truth Salon on October 1

See Diana Hill and Rosemerry Trommer during this special live event. Join in-person and live stream.

Tell the Truth Salon Series

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    Diana Hill

    Diana Hill, PhD is a clinical psychologist, international trainer and sought-out speaker on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and compassion. Host of the podcast Wise Effort with Dr. Diana Hill and author of The Self-Compassion Daily Journal, The ACT Daily Journal, and the upcoming book Wise Effort, Diana works with organizations and individuals to develop psychological flexibility so that they can grow fulfilling and impactful lives.

    Integrating her over 20 years of meditation experience with yoga and psychological training, Diana guest teaches at InsightLA, Blue Spirit Costa Rica, PESI, Praxis Continuing Education, Yoga Soup and Insight Timer Meditation. She is on the board for the Institute for Better Health, and blogs for Psychology Today and Mindful.org. Diana practices what she preaches in her daily life as a mom of two boys and bee guardian. Go to drdianahill.com or her channels on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube (@drdianahill) to learn more.