

THE GRIT SHOW
Shawna Rodrigues
Are you a giver and a doer? Are you someone who has shown your grit and powered through, and now you're ready for the other side? Now you re looking for the conversations that remind you about self care, that bring to mind grace and understanding, and give you space to reflect on purpose. Do you want more room to breathe and to live life with a little more ease? Each week, we discover tools and ways of thinking that support alignment, build stronger connections, help us find better questions, and live our best life. Most weeks we laugh, some weeks the topics touch close to home, but ultimately; this is where we grow together as seekers and thrivers. The Grit Show - growth on purpose. https://podcast.TheGritShow.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 2, 2025 • 37min
How Attachment Styles Shape Relationships, and Leadership Growth -132
Ever wonder why some people are confident in relationships while others are filled with anxiety or tend to withdraw? In this eye-opening episode of The Grit Show, Dr. Jaime Goff unpacks the hidden force shaping our adult behaviors: attachment styles. Discover why your leadership style at work and the way you connect with loved ones might both be rooted in your earliest relationships. Host Shawna Rodrigues and Dr. Goff use familiar pop culture examples—think Michael Scott’s neediness and Miranda Priestly’s icy exterior—to illustrate the three primary attachment patterns. If you’re curious about how to improve your relationships, become a better leader, or simply understand yourself on a deeper level, this conversation offers actionable insights and a hopeful message for personal growth. Stay tuned and find out how your "blueprint" for connection can be transformed—no matter your past.Dr. Jaime Goff is the founder of The Empathic Leader, LLC, where she specializes in helping leaders unlock their full potential through executive coaching, insightful workshops, and thought-provoking keynotes. With her unique blend of expertise in psychology and leadership development, Jaime helps individuals and teams navigate their toughest challenges, build resilience, and achieve transformative growth.Dr. Goff’s thought leadership has been featured in academic journals and industry magazines. She shares her insights regularly on her blog and LinkedIn, where she engages a thriving community. A seasoned speaker, Jaime has delivered presentations and workshops at more than 30 professional conferences. Jaime holds a PhD in Couple and Family Therapy from Michigan State University and a graduate certificate in executive coaching from Southern Methodist University. She is an ICF-certified coach and holds the SHRM-CP designation. With over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist, professor, and executive coach, she is passionate about helping leaders craft empowering stories that help them become more secure.When she’s not empowering others, you’ll find Jaime hiking with her husband, Eric; spending time with her dog Ursa and her cat Amos; painting, or building Lego sets.Connect with Dr. Jaime: Webiste- drjaimegoff.comLinkedIn- Jaime Goff, PhD, ACC, SHRM-CPInstagram- @dr_jaimegoffYoutube- Jaime GoffSupport your local bookstore & this podcast by getting your copy of The Secure Leader: Discover the Hidden Forces That Shape Your Leadership Story-- And How to Change Them at Bookshop.org Shawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact. She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.Connect with her journey: Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: https://linktr.ee/37by27Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!

Aug 19, 2025 • 27min
How Mirror Neurons can be a Helpful Friend or Foe -131
Ready to upgrade your approach to challenging conversations? In this episode of The Grit Show, Shawna Rodrigues uncovers the surprising science behind mirror neurons—those “copycat” brain cells at the root of empathy, communication, and even emotional contagion. Shawna shares a fascinating story from a groundbreaking 1992 study in Parma, Italy, showcasing how a monkey’s brain responded to a researcher eating ice cream, changing everything we know about human connection. Curious why your mood sets the tone in any interaction, or why tension can seem contagious in a room? Discover how mastering your own emotional state can transform tricky discussions, both at work and at home. With real-life examples and practical tips, Shawna guides you to harness this brain science to create smoother, more empathetic conversations. Tune in to start using your “superpower” for deeper, more meaningful connections!Shawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact. She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.Connect with her journey: Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: https://linktr.ee/37by27Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!

Aug 5, 2025 • 44min
Stress Relief 101: Laugh or Hug - Quick Ways to End the Stress Cycle -130
Ever cross everything off your to-do list, only to feel your stress stubbornly hanging around? As part of our Summer of Encores series, The Grit Show brings back a fan-favorite with guest Matt McKinnon for a heartfelt encore focused on demystifying the “stress cycle.”Revisit this powerful episode with host Shawna Rodrigues and Matt as they unpack surprising insights from the popular book Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily and Amelia Nagoski. They explore why simply solving problems doesn’t always clear stress from your mind and body—and share personal stories that reveal what really helps us complete the stress cycle. Expect smart, actionable tips involving laughter, movement, creativity, and even 20-second hugs! Whether you're navigating burnout, managing daily anxiety, or just looking for more effective self-care strategies—this episode is for you.If you’d like to keep learning and explore into actionable solutions, blissful rest, and how to navigate modern stressors, don’t miss the follow-up episode: Actionable Solutions, Blissful Rest & Modern Stressors – How to Escape Burnout: Part 2 (Ep. 58).Tune in for a fresh perspective on how to truly thrive, not just survive.Our guest Matt McKinnon has a master's degree in social work with over 15 years of experience in home visiting. His most recent work supported individuals and families navigating the end of life through his work in hospice. Matt is passionate about helping individuals navigate difficult circumstances and supporting the journey towards well-being. Through his work and personal experiences, Matt brings a unique perspective to discussions on burnout, stress management, and self-care. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, he is someone learning alongside us, and providing the knowledge he's gained to positively impact others. Matt's expertise in social work combined with his commitment to improving mental health makes him a valuable voice in conversations surrounding burnout, stress, and emotional well-being. Shawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact. She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.Connect with her journey: Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: https://linktr.ee/37by27Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!

Jul 22, 2025 • 24min
3 Ways the Tao of Pooh helped Robie in Finding Joy and Acceptance -129
Ready to transform how you approach life’s challenges? On this special anniversary episode of The Grit Show, Robie Lawrence steps behind the mic to share the timeless lessons he’s learned from ancient Taoist wisdom, filtered through the gentle wit of Winnie the Pooh. Discover why chasing success and grinding expectations led to more stress than satisfaction, and how shifting focus toward the natural flow of life brought surprising peace and authentic joy. From lessons on the golf course to unexpected twists in his career path, Robie unpacks concepts like “Wu Wei” and the power of the “uncarved block”—and why letting go of rigid plans may be exactly what you need. Curious how existential dread, hustle culture, and Taoism connect? Tune in for profound insights and practical inspiration that just might change your perspective on achieving happiness, well-being, and fulfillment.Robie Lawrence is the guest host for this special anniversary episode of The Grit Show. A Brown University alumnus who wrestled internationally in his youth, Robie's life journey took him from high-achieving student and athlete to discovering transformative wisdom through "The Tao of Pooh" by Benjamin Hoff during college. This introduction to Taoist principles of natural flow and childlike openness helped him move from stress and existential dread to peaceful acceptance and joy. Although still a newlywed, he is married to the girl of his dreams—someone he first kissed when he was 16. As Shawna Rodrigues' husband, Robie steps behind the mic to celebrate the milestones of both the podcast and their partnership, offering listeners gentle wisdom and inspiration for approaching life's challenges with greater ease and authenticity.If something about this episode resonated with you and you want to reach out to Robie, send a message to Shawna on Instagram (@ShawnaPodcasts)– she promises to get it to him!Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!

Jul 8, 2025 • 30min
Ready for Transformation? Find Purpose & Creativity in Times of Change -128
Are you standing at a crossroads, feeling uncertain about what’s next? As part of our Summer of Encores series, this powerful episode of The Grit Show brings back a conversation with Lauren St. George—a change facilitator who has helped countless people navigate life’s messiest transitions with intention and creativity. Shawna Rodrigues and Lauren chat about why uncertainty is often our biggest opportunity for personal growth, and how embracing the fear of change can lead you to your next exciting chapter. You’ll hear about innovative tools, like the Five Whys, and group coaching secrets for breaking free from feeling stuck. Whether you’re considering a career shift, retirement, or just searching for renewed purpose, this encore conversation delivers empowering strategies for moving from “lost” to “purposeful.” Listen in to discover how creativity, supportive communities, and simple mindset shifts can be your best allies in times of transition.Lauren St George is a creativity expert and change facilitator. She helps companies and individuals navigate change, overcome big hairy challenges, and imagine bold solutions. Lauren is the founder of What's Next, a one-of-a-kind, highly engaging program that helps people figure out their best next chapter. Often this need for change is triggered by a major life event (divorce, grief, empty nester, retirement) or feeling stuck and unsure on what to do next (career, purpose, happiness). At the heart of it, we are all looking to live a more fulfilling life and Lauren has helped hundreds of people find theirs.Connect with Lauren:Website: www.answerwhatsnext.comInstagram: @answerwhatsnextShawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact. She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.Connect with her journey: Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: https://linktr.ee/37by27Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!

Jun 24, 2025 • 36min
Healing Journey? It's Not About Me. Embrace People Who Offer Powerful Support. -127
Ever wonder why some people show up for you in life’s toughest moments—and why it often isn’t who you expect? In this heartfelt episode of The Grit Show, host Shawna Rodrigues shares eye-opening lessons from her own healing journey after surgery. She reveals how authentic support, community, and generosity come from the most unexpected sources, and offers a refreshing perspective on letting go of personal expectations. If you’re looking to explore themes of resilience, vulnerability, and the power of genuine human connection, this conversation provides both inspiration and practical reflection. Tune in for stories of gratitude, surprising acts of kindness, and Shawna’s take on how being open to receive can change everything—whether you’re recovering, seeking support, or looking to be a bright spot in someone else’s life.If you are interested in supporting Shawna during the final stretches of her healing journey you can learn more here: https://bit.ly/SupportSR - you can also add those pictures she mentioned to her posts on Facebook or Instagram – follow the links below!Shawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact. She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.Connect with her journey: Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: https://linktr.ee/37by27Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!

Jun 10, 2025 • 45min
Intermittent Fasting & Better Health- How a Fasting Diet Might Empower You -126
This episode of The Grit Show is part of our Summer of Encores series—bringing back some of our most impactful and talked-about conversations.Curious about why your diet never seems to stick, no matter how hard you try? This eye-opening conversation with New York Times bestselling author and intermittent fasting expert Gin Stephens will shift your perspective. Host Shawna Rodrigues explores how intermittent fasting challenges traditional diet culture and exposes the myths behind “frequent snacking” and metabolism. Gin shares the science of insulin, hunger hormones, and a powerful process called autophagy (think: your body’s natural cleaning crew). You’ll hear personal stories, unexpected truths about exercise and weight loss, and why fasting isn’t about starving yourself—it’s about giving your body what it needs to thrive.Ready for real food freedom, sustainable energy, and health benefits that last? Tune in and see why so many are rethinking their approach to eating—and feeling better than ever!Gin Stephens is the author of The NY Times and USA Today bestseller Fast. Feast. Repeat. (2020). She also wrote 28-Day Fast Start Day-By-Day (2023) and Delay, Don’t Deny: Living an Intermittent Fasting Lifestyle (2016, 2024), both Amazon #1 best sellers in the weight loss category, as well as Clean(ish): Eat (Mostly) Clean, Live (Mainly) Clean, and Unlock Your Body's Natural Ability to Self-Clean (2022), another Amazon #1 bestseller in several categories. Gin has lived the intermittent fasting lifestyle since 2014, losing over 80 pounds. She is the host of 2 top-ranked podcasts: Intermittent Fasting Stories and the Fast. Feast. Repeat. Intermittent Fasting for Life podcast (w/cohost Sheri Bullock). Connect with GinWebsite: ginstephens.comBooks: www.ginstephens.com/get-the-books.htmlYou can join her private community by going to ginstephens.com/communityShawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact. She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.Connect with her journey: Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: https://linktr.ee/37by27Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!

8 snips
May 27, 2025 • 45min
What is Internal Family Systems Therapy? Be Fascinated with Your Inner Orchestra. -125
Will Halpin, a seasoned psychotherapist with over 22 years of experience, dives into Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. He likens the mind to an orchestra, with different parts like anxious flutes and perfectionist violins playing roles in emotional processes. Halpin discusses protectors and exiles, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and introspection. He shares practical strategies for navigating anxiety and highlights innovative self-care methods, such as mindful coloring and outdoor activities, to promote healing and self-discovery.

May 13, 2025 • 36min
How Mirror Work and Brain Science Rewire Self-Belief and Happiness -124
Are you curious why some people seem to effortlessly manifest their dreams while others struggle to achieve their goals? In this compelling episode of The Grit Show, host Shawna Rodrigues sits down with neuroscience-trained life purpose coach Monica to explore the science-backed secrets behind manifestation, mindset, and self-belief. Discover how your brain’s “reticular activation system” actually filters your reality—and how, with practical techniques, you can rewire these filters to invite more opportunity, happiness, and abundance. Monica shares eye-opening client stories on transforming old beliefs and empowering yourself through intuitive routines and mirror work. If you've ever wondered about the intersection of neuroscience, manifestation, and intuitive living, this episode teases tangible tools to create lasting change. Get ready for inspiration and real talk about unlocking the vibrant, purpose-filled life you deserve!Monica is a certified life-purpose coach and applied neuroscience specialist who is passionate about helping women rediscover their spark and create lives they genuinely love. Her mission is simple but powerful: to help others tap into the brain’s potential, break free from limiting beliefs, and move toward a life of joy, freedom, and abundance.Monica’s coaching framework, The Neuro Fulfillment Method, blends neuroscience-backed strategies with soulful self-discovery to empower women to design lives that feel truly aligned. Through personalized 1:1 coaching, transformative workshops, and weekly WhatsApp support, she guides her clients to reconnect with their purpose, build unshakable self-belief, and develop actionable plans for meaningful change.She’s also a full-time traveler, adventure junkie, and total foodie who believes life is meant to be savored and explored. Whether she’s diving into local cuisines, chasing epic sunsets, or planning her next adrenaline-filled experience, Monica is always embracing life to the fullest.Connect with Monica:Instagram - @coachingbymonicaWebsite- coachingbymonica.comPodcast - Notes from a Neuro Nerd: The Science Behind Living Your Best LifeHere is that link to the freebie: https://coachingbymonica.com/intuitionShawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact. She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.Connect with her journey: Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: https://linktr.ee/37by27Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!

Apr 29, 2025 • 48min
Feeling Helpless Trying to Defuse Tension? It's Time to Empower Difficult Conversations -123
Curious how to handle tough conversations without losing your cool—or your power? We are re-releasing this episode of The Grit Show while host, Shawna, continues her healing from breast cancer surgery. This episode spotlights internationally acclaimed mediator Hesha Abrams, who shares secrets from decades of resolving high-conflict cases. You’ll hear surprising, practical strategies to “hold the calm,” neutralize workplace tension, and manage challenging relationships—from dealing with difficult bosses to family drama at the dinner table. Shawna reflects on the life-changing impact Hesha’s tools have had on her own coaching and training. Wondering how to disarm a gaslighter, stop a meeting hijacker in their tracks, or break free from toxic work dynamics? You’ll want to catch the memorable analogies (hint: spaghetti sauce) and actionable tips—like why “calm down” is the worst thing to say in heated situations, and how to lead with curiosity instead of judgment. Ready to upgrade your conflict resolution skills and empower yourself? Tune in!Hesha Abrams is a professional peacemaker, an internationally acclaimed master attorney mediator, negotiator, and author, known for crafting highly creative settlements and resolutions in very difficult matters. With 30+ years in the trenches of resolving human conflict, she has recently distilled her skills into an easy-to-use tool kit, her new book, "Holding the Calm: The Secret to Resolving Conflict and Defusing Tension." Through stories and examples, she shares her secrets enabling anyone to learn how to approach tense situations to prevent explosions, disarm conflicts, and reduce drama. It is her mission to help make our world, our businesses, and our relationships less acrimonious and more harmonious.Connect with HeshaLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hesha-abrams/Facebook: Hesha AbramsYoutube: Hesha Abrams - Holding The CalmWebsite: www.holdingthecalm.comGet your copy of Holding the Calm: The Secret to Resolving Conflict and Defusing Tension HEREShawna Rodrigues has been hosting the The Grit Show, since 2022 and has loved every minute of it. She has an award winning career in the government and non-profit industry, an LCSW, and a passion for making a impact. She is currently facing her biggest plot twist yet—a breast cancer diagnosis in early 2025—this year is about her fight, victory, and healing. Join her warrior community Being Honest and check out the podcast episode where she shares more.Connect with her journey: Instagram @Shawna.Rodrigues | Everything else: https://linktr.ee/37by27Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcastsGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you’ll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with a friend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!