B+ Episode Guest, Erika Mahoney

On March 22, 2021, the Boulder, Colorado community was shaken by the King Soopers mass shooting that claimed ten lives. One of them was Kevin Mahoney — a husband, father, and grandfather whose life was defined by kindness, connection, and an unwavering commitment to doing the right thing.

For journalist and advocate Erika Mahoney, Kevin wasn’t just a news story. He was her dad. In this week’s episode of B+, Erika opens up about the day that changed everything, her unique perspective as both a reporter and a grieving daughter, and the ways she’s working to honor her father’s memory and advocate for change.

Living Through the Story She Once Reported

Before losing her dad, Erika had already covered a mass casualty event as a reporter — the Gilroy Garlic Festival shooting. She knew the rhythms of breaking news: the press conferences, the endless search for answers. But nothing could prepare her for being on the other side of the microphone, waiting in limbo for 12 agonizing hours to learn her father’s fate.

That experience has shaped her view on journalism ethics, including the questions we rush to ask and the voices we center in those early hours.

Honoring Kevin Mahoney’s Legacy

Kevin’s legacy is woven into simple acts that carry deep meaning. He returned his shopping cart. He picked up litter on hikes. He found creative, compassionate ways to help his daughter through challenges — like planning a summer of mountain hikes to build strength and confidence while she battled an eating disorder.

Today, Erika honors him by encouraging others to carry out those small, meaningful acts — and by sharing his story in her own podcast, Senseless.

Advocacy Through Connection

Erika’s work now extends beyond journalism. She’s using her platform to talk about prevention, mental health awareness, and the power of human connection in addressing violence. She believes solutions must be multifaceted — from strengthening gun laws to recognizing and supporting those who feel isolated or overlooked.

Her message is simple but profound: “The hardest people to hug are often the ones who need it most.”

Advice for Navigating Grief

For those experiencing deep loss, Erika emphasizes:

• Accept that grief takes time — there’s no rushing it.
• Feel it fully — sadness, anger, and even joy can coexist.
• Stay connected to your loved one — through traditions, stories, music, or symbolic gestures.
• Ask what they’d want for you — and choose to keep living.

Listen to the Full Conversation

Erika’s story is one of unimaginable loss, but also of resilience, love, and finding hope in the aftermath. Her perspective challenges us to look beyond headlines, to care for one another, and to find meaning in the smallest acts of kindness.