In this episode of Ghosted, we’re joined by Kristina, who shares what it was like to compete on Survivor 49 while carrying profound grief with her.
Kristina opens up about honoring her mom, who passed away due to addiction, and how being on the show during the anniversary of her mother’s death became an unexpected moment of connection rather than isolation. She talks about seeing pieces of her mom everywhere while filming and how Survivor ultimately became a space for healing.
We also dive into Kristina’s advocacy work, how she uses her mom’s story to speak openly about mental health and addiction, and why these conversations are often avoided within Black communities and why she’s determined to change that.
This conversation is fun, lighthearted, and full of Survivor talk, while also holding space for deeper truths about grief, legacy, and finding meaning in unexpected places. Kristina is thoughtful, honest, and such a joy to talk to. This episode is a reminder that grief doesn’t stop life, but it can walk alongside it.
