10. Turning Grief Into Purpose: Healing, Advocacy & Conscious Community with Linda Alva

In this powerful episode of Next Level Self, I’m joined by wellness advocate and community builder Linda Alva, whose life was forever changed after the devastating loss of her son, Tristan, due to an accidental drug overdose. Through unimaginable grief, Linda found herself on a profound journey of healing—one that led her to create The Gathering Place, a spiritual wellness community that’s become a sanctuary for connection, purpose, and transformation.

What began as a personal spiritual awakening—sparked by the audiobook The Power of Now and simple mindfulness practices—has since evolved into a mission rooted in advocacy, education, and heart-centered leadership. Linda’s story is one of profound resilience, and her work is a beautiful example of how pain, when met with presence, can become purpose.

🌿 Together, we explore:

• How Linda’s spiritual path deepened after personal loss and led her to holistic healing
• The creation of The Gathering Place as a safe, inclusive community for healing and growth
• What it means to live in alignment with your dharma—even through life's darkest seasons
• The role of mindfulness, gratitude, and movement in navigating grief
• How the fentanyl crisis is impacting families—and why awareness matters
• Embracing vulnerability and stepping into your next-level self
• Making decisions your future self will thank you for

✨ Interested in connecting with Linda and learning more about The Gathering Place?
Follow her on Instagram @pilates_mom
To attend an event or learn more, follow @thegatheringplacenb

🆘 Want to be prepared to save a life?
Linda works with the nonprofit Fentanyl Solutions to distribute free Narcan and fentanyl testing strips.
If you’d like access to these life-saving resources, reach out to her directly via Instagram @pilates_mom

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✨ You’re exactly where you’re meant to be. ✨

If this episode resonated with you, I’d be honored if you subscribed, shared it with someone on their own path, or left a review—it helps these conversations reach the hearts they’re meant to.

Are you feeling the pull to live in deeper alignment with who you truly are?
Come find me on Instagram @thenurturednurse for grounded reflections, energetic shifts, and reminders that it’s safe to return to yourself.

🌿 Ready to step into the next version of you?
If you're navigating a season of expansion, in between chapters, or simply know there’s more available for you—this is your invitation.
Book a free Alignment Call and experience a potent space to recalibrate your energy, release what no longer fits, and remember the power of who you’re becoming.
This is more than a conversation—it’s a catalyst.
Click here to schedule your call.

Keep listening.
Keep softening.
Keep becoming. ✨

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide medical, mental health, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about your health or well-being.