The Homecoming Podcast with Dr. Thema Episode #238 Coping with Millennial Grief and Loss with Lia Mancao
Feb 11, 2026
Lia Mancao, LCSW — therapist, writer, and founder of Alyssa Marie Wellness who supports adults through grief and major life shifts. She shares stories of invisible losses, family survival after the 2008 crash, and navigating anger and shame. Conversations cover radical acceptance, millennial community resilience, repairing friendships, and reclaiming home and self-trust.
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Family Home Lost During 2008 Crash
- Lia describes losing her family's home during the 2008 economic crash while she was in grad school and suddenly having to pack and relocate.
- She recalls initial survival mode followed later by feelings of anger, shame, and resentment as the reality set in.
Invisible Grief Lacks Rituals
- Thema and Lia highlight the concept of "invisible grief" for losses that aren't deaths, like homes, time, or opportunity.
- They note these losses lack rituals and public recognition, complicating healing and closure.
Anger As Legitimate, Mobilizing Force
- Lia describes anger directed at parents and systemic inequality as responses to socioeconomic loss.
- She frames anger toward systems as legitimate and potentially mobilizing rather than something to simply release.
