What does it feel like to lose a parent when you’re 12 years old? How does a grieving teen begin to understand guardianship, money, and the weight of adult responsibilities before high school even starts?

Justin Weidenfeld is joined by his younger brother Jake Weidenfeld to talk about growing up in the shadow of loss and what he’s learned since. Jake shares the reality of being a grieving teen, trying to fit in at school, shutting down emotions, and later discovering that coping can take many different shapes. He also opens up about volunteering at Experience Camps and creating Grief Lift, a nonprofit built to give students the peer-to-peer support he once needed but didn’t have.

Their conversation doesn’t stop at emotions. Jake explains what it was like to have his inheritance tied up in a court-ordered guardianship and what he’s learning now as he pays his own way through college. His story raises bigger questions too: How do we prepare young people for financial independence? What role should family, community, and open conversations play in that process?

This episode reflects on how grief can change the pace of growing up and the responsibilities that come with it. Jake’s perspective is a reminder that even in loss there can be growth, connection, and purpose. He shows how young people can take experiences that feel overwhelming and slowly shape them into something that strengthens not only themselves but also the people around them.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction to The Currency of Grief

03:59 Jake’s Perspective as a Grieving Teen

07:18 The Day Jake Learned His Dad Died

11:47 Coping With Grief in Middle School

20:01 Creating Grief Lift for Students

27:34 Finding Support Beyond Therapy

32:39 Coping Strategies and WWDD Golf Tournament

48:34 Navigating Guardianship After Loss

55:12 Learning About Money at 18

01:09:31 The College Application Process While Grieving

01:22:45 Taking Responsibility for College Tuition

01:28:45 Experience Camps and the Power of Community

01:34:15 Jake’s Words of Wisdom for Grieving Kids

Connect with Jake Weidenfeld:

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Grief Lift

Connect with Justin Weidenfeld:

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