230. Through Darkness to Light: Elizabeth Smart on Healing and Hope

230. Through Darkness to Light: Elizabeth Smart on Healing and Hope

Author: Monica Berg and Michael Berg December 16, 2025 Duration: 48:43

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we are joined by Elizabeth Smart for a powerful and deeply human conversation. She opens up about the realities of grief, healing, and choosing peace in the aftermath of unimaginable darkness. Together, we explore why healing isn’t linear, why some wounds echo long after the moment has passed, and how it’s possible to build a meaningful life even while carrying the imprint of loss. We also dive into the profound importance of support, connection, and community—and how none of us are meant to heal alone.


In a world that often feels fragmented and fast-paced, many of us are left with a deep, unnamed yearning for more meaningful connection and understanding. Spiritually Hungry is a conversation born from that shared feeling, hosted by authors Monica and Michael Berg. This isn't a lecture, but a dynamic dialogue between partners who bring distinct, deeply researched perspectives to life's universal challenges. Monica, who calls herself a Change Junkie, draws from her international work as a teacher and author, focusing on personal transformation and practical application. Michael, a rabbi and scholar of Aramaic, contributes nearly two decades of writing on Kabbalah, offering the historical and spiritual depth of this ancient wisdom. Together, they tackle listener questions that span relationships, societal pressures, cultural shifts, and the inner work of self-improvement. Each episode feels like sitting with two thoughtful guides who aren't afraid to disagree, laugh, and explore the messy intersections of ancient spiritual principles and contemporary living. You'll hear nuanced discussions that refuse simple answers, instead offering layered insights on how to navigate complexity with more grace, intention, and awareness. The podcast thrives on the genuine chemistry of this husband-and-wife team, making profound concepts accessible and immediately relevant to your daily decisions and long-term growth. It’s for anyone who suspects there’s a richer layer to their experiences and is eager to explore it through a lens that is both timeless and urgently modern.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 239

Spiritually Hungry
Podcast Episodes
38. No Regrets: How to Use Failure as a Tool for Growth [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:34
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael illustrate how making mistakes and failing are part of our spiritual process, teaching us valuable lessons that help elevate our souls. Tune in as they discuss tr…
37. Spiritual Focus: Taking Your Soul’s Work Seriously [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:21
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael explore how growing our self-awareness feeds our soul and fills our life with joy and purpose. Listen as they discuss the myriad benefits of injecting consciousne…
36. How to Receive Endless Goodness: Earning Our Blessings [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:39
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael offer their thoughts on the spiritual concept of energetically earning – through hard work and consciousness – the gifts and blessings we want to receive in our l…
35. Live with Audacity: How to Tap Into Your Potential [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:08
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael delve into our view of ourselves – how we often see ourselves through a distorted lens that leads us to underestimating our potential, which, in fact, is limitles…
34. Think Better: How to Change Negative Thought Patterns [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:00
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael examine the way we think, which can often be self-defeating despite our potential to do great things and having much to be grateful for. Tune in as they explore t…
33. Love in Challenging Times: How to Create Resilient Relationships [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:44
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael explain how rethinking our relationship can take it to new heights. Listen as they discuss building a strong, resilient relationship through consciousness and act…
32. Exercising Mindfulness: How to Live with Intention [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:43
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael discuss how living with intention helps us change what we want to change about ourselves and direct our energy in ways that support our growth. Tune in as they de…
31. Angels are Real: How to Identify the Universe’s Messages [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:45
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael examine the spiritual support system that exists to help us accomplish our purpose in life and become who we are meant to be. Listen as they shed light on the spi…
30. The Freedom of Surrender: How to Let Go [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:39
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael explore the power of surrender to help us transform our reality and find true freedom in our lives. Tune in as they explain that control is merely an illusion and…
29. The Illusion of Perfection: How to Embrace the Messiness of Life [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:17
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael delve into the benefits of leading a ‘messy’ life rather than striving for perfection at all times. Listen as they discuss how we can learn from our mistakes, and…