THE GRIT SHOW

Do you connect with stories of individuals who dare to dream and reach for opportunities? If so, today's episode of The Grit Show is one that will inspire you. Jason's challenges may have tripped him up, but they didn't hold him back and he takes a moment to help us better understand hyperlexia and some of the challenges he faced in the traditional education system. He also takes us on the adventure of transitioning from a public school teacher to embracing creativity and outside-the-box thinking to find his dream job at NASA. Prepare to reach for your own stars. This conversation will challenge your perceptions of education and allow you to learn how STEM may be leading us beyond standardized testing to dive into deeper learning. Discover how VASFA is not just about engineering but also fostering imagination, teamwork, and hands-on learning through their space adventure camp and online STEM Academy. Jason also shares his personal journey of transforming challenges into opportunities at VASFA and NASA. His insights on faith, compassion, and self-discovery will inspire you to pursue your own dreams with unwavering determination. If you're curious about the dynamic intersection of STEM, creativity, and personal growth, this episode is a captivating glimpse into the world of innovation and self-belief.Jason Dietrich is a highly motivated, certified educator who is interested in increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM. He is experienced in training and professional development, global education policy and methods, statistical analysis, curriculum development, and assessment strategies. In addition, he has been mentored by a current Virginia Space Flight Academy (VASFA) STEM Engagement Specialist and have authored a NASA application design to identify hidden barriers to STEM engagement.Learn more about VASFAWebsite: https://www.vasfa.org/Instagram: @vaspaceflightacademyFacebook: Virginia Space Flight AcademyLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/virginia-space-flight-academyYouTube: Virginia Space Flight AcademyTwitter/X: @VaSpaceAcademyConnect with JasonInstagram: @clarinetman114Facebook: Jason DietrichStay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!

Get ready for an eye-opening episode of The Grit Show, as host Shawna Rodrigues invites special guest Megan Miller to share her journey from overwhelm to intentional living. Megan reflects on her corporate career in hospitality sales that kept her constantly busy, leading to a breakdown. But out of breakdowns come breakthroughs, and Megan reveals the little signs she missed and the importance of acknowledging them. From celebrating wins and writing them down to the power of vulnerability and personal storytelling, Shawna and Megan dive deep into the transformative effects of intentional choices. Join them as they explore the impact of morning routines, the dangers of phone addiction, and the profound influence of silence and self-reflection. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that will help you rethink your approach to life, from the small steps towards positive change to the power of carving out time for yourself. Tune in to The Grit Show and discover the path to a blissful, intentional life!Megan Miller is a professional speaker, creator & host of Attention to Intention podcast. She is on a mission to help high-performing go-getting professionals detox off the drug of achievement.Over the past 15 years, Megan's laser focus on climbing the corporate ladder resulted in a successful career as a Sales Executive in the Hospitality industry, managing a portfolio of 150 hotels & $1B in revenue. Raised by a single mother in rural Pennsylvania, inflicted with a speech impediment and feeling like she had to fight for her seat at the table, Megan clawed her way to the corner office & when she landed there, she realized that she was empty, unfulfilled, and addicted to the drug of achievement. After realizing she was living in a lonely dark world focused on hustle & achievement, she made a choice to get brave and get still and start using the power of intention to live a more inspired life. This laid the foundation of helping high-performing go-getting professionals stop living to make it to Friday, sleepwalking through life in a robotic nature, and start living with inspiration and fulfillment, and connection to your most trusted advisor: yourself.Connect with MeganInstagram: @megan.b.millerWebsite: www.megan-miller.com/Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!

In this episode of The Grit Show, host Shawna Rodrigues delves into the fascinating concept of the future self and the powerful role gratitude plays in decision-making. Join her as she explores the importance of considering what our future selves would be most grateful for, sharing personal examples and thought-provoking insights along the way. Shawna takes us on a reflective journey, discussing the benefits of self-maintenance and gratitude as tools for planning and finding happiness. You're in the right place if you're looking to gain perspective on challenging decisions, engage in self-reflection, or simply trying to find joy amidst the chaos. This episode is an inspiring guide to navigating life's twists and turns as Shawna explores the delicate balance between joy and responsibility, and how to find gratitude even in the face of challenges. Don't miss this episode filled with practical tips and heartfelt reflections to help you navigate the path towards your future self's greatest gratitudes. Thank you for being part of this community!Guess what we've added for you?? A new way for you to show your support and gratitude for The Grit Show. Check it out and let us know what you think!!https://podcast.thegritshow.com/supportHelpful things referenced today-Other podcast episodesTT The Power of Being Thankful -10TT Gratitude, Regret, & Letting Go -22Conquer the Stress Cycle & Focus on Your Well Being- How to Escape Burnout: Part 1 -57Dynamic Microphone I used in this episode (and yep - this is an affiliate link, so if you click on it, you are helping the podcast a little too!!)https://amzn.to/3QR3GDwPodcasts that joined the Authentic Connections Podcast Network:The Heart Chamber with Boots KnightonReal Estate Energized! with Dill Ward and Nicholas NascimentoMarli Williams Podcast - Let's Lead Together with Marli WilliamsStay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!! 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/37by27

In this captivating episode of The Grit Show, host Shawna Rodrigues welcomes Lori Mitchell to delve into the profound and often overlooked topic of grief during the holiday season. Lori, a grief coach and facilitator, shares her personal experiences and expert insights on navigating the complexities of loss during what should be a joyous time. From understanding the importance of processing emotions to finding gratitude in the midst of pain, Shawna and Lori explore the transformative power of grief and the ways it can shape our lives. As a mother of two young children when she lost her husband, her story is profound and powerful. Lori helps to highlight the importance of moving forward with grief rather than simply trying to move on from it. In this episode, you'll discover how grief can be carried, reframed, and ultimately honored, and gain valuable tools for supporting loved ones who are grieving this holiday season. Lori also offers invaluable insights into helping children navigate grief and shares tools and rituals to honor a loved one's memory. Tune in to this insightful episode of The Grit Show and embrace the beauty of healing through the depths of grief.Connecting with Lori:If you are interested in working with Lori as a grief coach - you can connect with her directly - Lori Mitchell <lori@embracinggrief.life>Her archive of podcast episodes are still available to you - Embracing Grief Podcast-https://embracinggrief.buzzsprout.comthough she is not producing new episodes at this time. These are some Facebook communities that Lori shared that you may find valuable:The Embodied Grief Support Group on FB (for grievers) https://m.facebook.com/groups/embodiedgriefsupportThe Grief Support Providers Community  (for people providing support for grievers)https://m.facebook.com/groups/3418691725048968Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!

Get ready to host the ultimate holiday party with this episode of The Grit Show! Join host Shawna Rodrigues as she dives into the world of hosting with special guest Mara, founder of Joyful Hostess. From wine tasting parties to Great Gatsby-themed New Year's Eve bashes, Mara's expertise will inspire you to create unforgettable experiences for your guests. Discover Mara's tips for simplifying meal preparations, outsourcing tasks, and prioritizing self-care during the busy holiday season. Dive into the joy of connecting with friends and learn a motto that will make every gathering flow with more ease. Whether you're a seasoned host or a newbie looking to enhance your hosting game, this episode is a delightful blend of inspiration, practical tips, and authentic connections. Don't miss out on unlocking the secrets to becoming a joyful hostess!Joyful Hostess is on a mission to teach women to let go of perfection and bring out their own inner joyful hostess. Mara believes when women feel good and confident about hosting more gatherings, that means more celebrations and that means more JOY! To Joyful Hostess wants to support you on your journey, and has a LOT of resources to make it easy. She's got everything from books to digital done-for-you party kits, an online Joyful Hostess Crash Course, a YouTube Channel, blog with recipes, tips and ideas; all to help you level up their hosting game.Bringing the joy back to hosting, one party at a time. Mara is the founder of Joyful Hostess and entertaining is in her blood. Mara grew up in a family that hosted everything from big holiday gatherings to impromptu Sunday dinners to lively cocktail parties, and she loved every second of it. She's carried on those traditions with her own family because she believes inviting people to gather is an act of love. Mara has a talent in finding the joy in connecting and letting go of preconceived ideas of "perfection" especially when it comes to entertaining at home.In this episode, Mara talks to us about the joy of hosting and making sure perfection doesn't distract from making the most of your gathering and the reason you put together the party in the first place. There are some marvelous stories along the way and Mara shares some valuable tips and tricks. It's a worthwhile conversation. We hope you join us!Best ways to find Mara-Website: joyfulhostess.comInstagram: @joyfulhostessYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JoyfulHostessParty Planner Keepsake: https://joyfulhostess.com/party-planner/If you are interested in checking out the course she has available - Joyful Hostess CrashCourse -you can do that here - https://www.joyfulhostess.com/joyful-hostess-crash-courseStay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!

Have you ever felt weighed down by the baggage of your past? Or maybe you've found yourself stuck in a cycle of negative thinking and low self-esteem? Well, in this episode of The Grit Show, our guest shares how to turn your baggage into luggage and live a life by design, not default!Donna shares her own journey of purpose and how she overcame shame, fear, and societal rejection to become the founder of Vibrant Living International. With over 25 years of experience, she's developed two powerful workshops on her website: "Turn your baggage into luggage" and "Life by design, not by default." These workshops are designed to help you explore your challenges, grow from them, and create a life that reflects your true potential.Donna also delves into the concept of baggage thinking, which encompasses anger, resentment, fear, and low self-esteem. She encourages us to let go of these negative thoughts and use challenges as stepping stones to success. It's about having grit, persistence, and a belief in ourselves. She also talks about unlocking your superpowers and how using tools like imagination can transform your life.Get ready to embrace challenges, turn your baggage into luggage, shift your thinking, and create a life by design, not by default.Donna Tashjian is the visionary founder of Vibrant Living International, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey to vibrant, purpose-driven lives. With over 25 years of experience as a warm, caring, and down-to-earth inspirational speaker and Life Mastery Coach, Donna has touched countless lives, helping individuals around the world accelerate their personal transformation journey. Her mission is to empower you to experience your dreams of abundance, all while maintaining harmony in your life and fostering thriving relationships.Donna's clients often describe her as a truth-exposurer and fear-buster, capable of transforming trepidation into excitement, allowing the radiant truth to shine forth. Collaborating with Donna is like embarking on a refreshing vacation for your mind, body, and soul—a journey toward your vibrant, purposeful self.Connect with DonnaWorkshop: www.ivibrantliving.com/lbd-workshop-2/Facebook: Vibrant Living InternationalWebsite: www.ivibrantliving.com/Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!

Today on The Grit Show we get to dive into navigating life's transitions with purpose. Life is a journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected changes. Join us as we embark on a powerful conversation about finding purpose amidst life's transitions. Our guest, Lauren St. George, a renowned change facilitator, shares her expertise in helping individuals reclaim their sense of purpose and reimagine their next chapter. From major life events like divorce, grief, and retirement to feeling stuck and seeking change, we explore the tools, mindsets, and strategies to navigate these pivotal moments effectively. Dive deep into the power of embracing uncertainty, overcoming fear, and shifting our mindset from failure to experimentation. Get ready to unlock clarity, tap into your passions, and discover the tools to design a thriving future!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 LaurenWebsite: www.answerwhatsnext.com/Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!

In this episode of The Grit Show, we dive into the power of reframing judgment. Discover three simple techniques to transform your perspective, strengthen your relationships, and get at the root of why slipping into judgement is so easy for all of us. Through insightful anecdotes and real-life examples, you'll learn how to navigate judgment in a way that fosters growth and connection. Join us as we delve into why judgment can become our default mode, particularly in challenging and traumatic times. And learn what it takes to break free from this mindset and cultivate healthier relationships. Host Shawna Rodrigues shares personal insights and practical tips to transform your perception and bring more empathy into your interactions. This shorter episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to challenge their ingrained judgmental tendencies and create more connection in their relationships.Other episodes referencedConversation with Laurie (54)Celebrating Time- The Anniversary of The Grit Show & How to Make/Keep Adult Friendships -54Conversation with Matt (58)-Actionable Solutions, Blissful Rest & Modern Stressors- How to Escape Burnout: Part 2 -58Shawna 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 on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!

Learn the art of handling difficult individuals isn't just about maintaining your calm and composure. Based on the title of Hesha's book, I thought I was going to get a nice reminder in how to remain neutral and listen more. Hesha offers her mantra, but she offers so much more. Today's guest empowers us with tools to defuse and nullify bullies, as well as make it easier to get our point across and increase connection. With a career of tested techniques and a desire to share it with more of us, our guest offers fascinating insights into human psychology and real-life stories that you'll relate to. This episode will equip you with the tools to stand up confidently and create healthier connections. Be prepared to transform your approach to conflict and emerge stronger than ever before! In a world filled with judgement, we also do touch on the need to lead with curiosity. Our guest challenges the status quo and shares the importance of genuine interest and understanding as a tool to break through and create connection. Discover the 'Give a darn meter' and unlock the secrets of deepening your ability to resolve conflict through curiosity. We'll also dive into toxic relationships in the workplace and how to defuse tensions. Whether you're a leader struggling with conflict management or simply navigating difficult conversations over dinner with your family, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a path to better handle tension and increase you successful interactions with others. We all have something to gain from the wisdom and examples shared!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.com/Get your copy of Holding the Calm: The Secret to Resolving Conflict and Defusing Tension HEREStay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!

Curating Your World and unlocking the Joy Equation: Are you aware of the inputs that could be stealing your joy? Join us in this episode as we tackle the often overlooked factors that shape our happiness. From the music we listen to during our daily commute to the articles we read and the social media we scroll through, discover how these seemingly small choices can have a profound impact on our mindset and well-being. Our host shares a personal revelation about the incongruence between her playlist and her desires for a positive relationship, leading to a powerful shift in her life. Tune in to learn how to assess and optimize your own inputs for maximum joy and fulfillment. Get ready to take control of your happiness on The Grit Show!Other episodes referenced:Conversation with Justin (61)-Smash Limiting Belief Systems with These Clear Steps & Conquer Your Fears -61Conversation with Laurie (54)-Celebrating Time- The Anniversary of The Grit Show & How to Make/Keep Adult Friendships -54Conversations with Matt-Actionable Solutions, Blissful Rest & Modern Stressors- How to Escape Burnout: Part 2 -58Conquer the Stress Cycle & Focus on Your Well-Being- How to Escape Burnout: Part 1 -57Shawna 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 on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @Shawna.Rodrigues.Grab 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 copy the link to this episode to share on social media! Tell folks what you got out of it!Be sure to send this episode to someone who would want to hear it. They'll appreciate you and we appreciate your support!!