Coffee & Grit

Stop Settling for “Fine.” Because You Deserve to Feel Amazing...Meet Beth Smith – Designer, Disruptor, and Founder of Beth Smith CoutureBack in January I walked into Single Barrel Social for a Howell Chamber Happy Hour and that is when spotted Beth Smith across the room.  I didn’t know who she was.  I didn’t know what she did.But I knew she was a Difference Maker.Nine months later, we finally made it happen and it was worth the wait. Beth is on a mission to help women feel as incredible as they are supposed to feel in the clothes they wear. Not just for weddings. Not just for galas. For every day. For walking into the boardroom, the classroom, or your damn kitchen and owning it. In this episode, we get raw about:Why she waited until 60 to finally chase her dream (and why she is not waiting another second)The real reason you hate everything in your closet and what it is actually saying about your self-worthHow pricing, imposter syndrome, and saying "yes" shaped her businessWhy women settle for “fine” when they should be feeling fabulousAnd what happens when you build a brand that reflects exactly who you areWe talk skirts, mindset, self-image, AI, imposter syndrome, and what it feels like when the clothes you wear actually fit your soul.Beth doesn’t just make dresses.  She redesigns your relationship with yourself. And if you are an entrepreneur sitting on a dream or a woman staring at a closet full of “meh” this episode is your sign:Stop playing small. Start showing up. You are not here to blend in.You are here to glow!

Being a engineer Glenn Nixon never imagined a career in sales.He walked into a room full of closers fresh out of training, scared out of his mind, with no real plan and zero belief in his abilities. But he had something most people miss the drive to figure it out, the humility to keep learning, and the heart to actually care about people. That was 23 years ago.Now he is the guy business owners turn to when their sales process is a mess, their confidence is shot, and nothing is clicking. He is the calm voice in the chaos. The one who sees what they don’t. The one who helps them get unstuck.This was Glenn’s first time on a podcast. But it did not feel like a first.From the jump, it felt like two kindred spirits sitting down to talk about the game behind the game. We talked about how aligned we are in the way we lead, sell, and build relationships all through the lens of service. We both believe in winning people, not pushing them. And in a world full of tactics, that kind of alignment is rare.In this conversation, we dig deep into:The difference between a sales rep and a trusted advisorHow to coach business owners through fear, confusion, and indecisionWhat actually moves the needle in leadership, sales, and consultingAnd how to stop managing metrics and start mentoring peopleThis episode is for the sales leader who is burned out chasing a numberThe coach who knows their people are capable of moreThe business owner who feels like they are carrying it all aloneAnd the Difference Maker who knows there is more to give but does not know what the next move looks like.If you are tired of surface level sales talk and ready to hear what it really takes to build trust, solve problems, and grow people, this is the one Because behind all the strategy, systems, and scripts, it is still about peopleAnd that is something Glenn Nixon never forgot

Some people survive.Some people shine.And some people walk through the fire and become the damn fire.  That describes Sparkle Lindsay perfectly!  Because this is not just another episode. It is a reunion, a revelation, and a reminder of what happens when you stop waiting and start walking toward your calling. Sparkle returns to Coffee & Grit five years after we first connected on LinkedIn. Back then, she was barely a year into sobriety and unsure if recovery coaching would even be a real path. Now she’s built a national movement, trained over 1,300 coaches, launched multiple curriculums, and turned trauma into transformation. But it did not happen overnight. We dig into:The rock-bottom moments, from funerals to bounced checks, and the divine timing that followedBuilding a business while healing from addiction, grief, and self-doubtThe shift from proving yourself to becoming yourselfThe power of doing the work inside and outHow knowing, loving, and leading yourself first changes everythingWhy leadership is not about fixing people. It is about holding space for their riseThis episode is for the Difference Maker who is building while battling self-doubt, putting everyone else first, and waiting for a sign. Let this be it. Sparkle’s story is not polished or sugar-coated. It is honest, gritty, and exactly what most entrepreneurs need to hear. This is what building from the inside out really looks like. You are not late. You are right on time. And the time is now.

Let’s get one thing straight this isn’t just another story about surviving.This is a story about choosing to rise differently with love, with grace, and with fire. Joni Woods came back into the studio just weeks before her book Burned, Blocked & Better Than Ever drops. But this conversation?It went way beyond a book launch. Joni doesn’t just talk about resilience. She lives it.From sleeping in her car after escaping a toxic marriage…To raising her kids in the aftermath of generational trauma…To surviving abuse, shame, religious judgment, betrayal, loss, and learning how to finally let go without losing herself...This is the kind of episode that punches you in the chest, then wraps you in a hug.We talk about:Why forgiveness isn’t weakness — it’s freedomHow letting go of resentment can heal generationsThe pain of being misunderstood by the people closest to youWhy your vulnerability is the real value of your storyWhat it looks like to choose love when you’ve got every reason not toHow to stop living on other people’s expectations — and finally be YOUAnd yeah… we talk about the scars.The ones you carry on your body.The ones you explain to your kids.The ones that shaped who you are. Because Joni didn’t just survive — she turned her story into a mission.And she’s sharing it now so you don’t have to keep carrying yours alone.This episode is for:✅ The person who’s been told to tone it down, suck it up, or keep the peace✅ The entrepreneur who’s stuck in relationships, routines, or roles that are killing their spirit✅ The visionary who's been through the fire — and is ready to riseThis isn’t self-help fluff. This is a damn roadmap for how to be kind, real, and relentless in a world that keeps testing you.Joni’s book Burned, Blocked, and Better Than Ever launches Oct. 7th. Pre-order it. Share it. Show up to her story.Because she didn’t just write it for herself. She wrote it for all of us.🎧 Let this episode be your reminder: you’re not broken — you’re becoming.

Let’s talk real...If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, inconsistent with your content, or questioning whether your marketing efforts are even working… this one’s for you.Because I’ve been there too!In this solo episode of Coffee & Grit, I step back into the studio—Loudmouth Studio—to catch you up on the wild journey of building something from scratch while still trying to coach, create, lead, and live.We dive into:How my dream of having a content studio went from 3-year vision to reality in 3 monthsWhat it really looks like behind the scenes of building your brand while building your businessWhy entrepreneurs struggle with consistency—and how to fix itThe story of a client who started sharing his truth, got vulnerable… and finally started closingHow to stop giving your best work away for free and start charging your worthThe hidden ROI of sharing your story—and the cost of staying silentWhy so many visionary entrepreneurs are burning out on marketing that doesn’t move the needleThis episode isn’t polished.It’s not scripted.It’s not a highlight reel. It’s me, in the moment, fired up, and laying it all out so you can get clear, confident, and freaking consistent in how you show up.If you’re a Difference Maker ready to stop playing small and start dominating your space with real, raw, authentic marketing—this is the spark you’ve been waiting for. 🎧 Let’s go.

Ever feel like you were lazy, unmotivated, or just... broken—because the traditional path never lit you up?You sat in the back of the classroom, zoned out in office meetings, watching your peers climb ladders you didn’t even want to lean against...You weren’t the problem!  You were a visionary stuck in a system that couldn’t hold you.That is exactly what fueled this impromptu recording of Coffee & Grit after a trust builder meeting at Loud Mouth Studio that went 10 layers deeper.  Listen I as I talk with a young and hungry entrepreneur Hayden Larance, founder of Amistad Digital, whom found his path while selling products he didn't love. What started as a casual off-camera conversation turned into one of the a super energizing episode for those in the grind of building a start up business. We dive into:What it's really like building a business from zero—no fluff, no filtersMaking the leap from scammy sales to soul-driven serviceWhy automation and reputation matter for small business ownersThe solopreneur struggle: wearing every hat, burning out, and still showing upHow action—not info—is the bridge between dreaming and doingThe power of relationships and showing up human in businessShifting from “How do I make money?” to “How do I make a difference?”Hayden might be young, but he’s got that beast-mode mindset. He’s documenting the journey, slaying giants, and learning in real-time—and he’s not afraid to get uncomfortable. This episode is for the entrepreneurs out there grinding in silence, wondering if they're crazy for wanting more.For the ones chasing freedom instead of just a paycheck.For the ones who feel stuck—but know deep down they were built for something bigger. This is your reminder to stop the "mental masterbation" and Just Do It like Nike!🎧 Listen in and watch how the fire gets lit.

What’s up, everybody?! Welcome back to another episode of Coffee & Grit — and you already know I’m fired up for this one!It’s not every day I get to jam in the new studio with a three-time guest, a true friend, and one of the biggest difference makers I know — the Godfather of Connecting People, Steven Zyskowski, founder of Caerusnet Michigan.Steve’s was back in Michigan last week from sunny Arizona for the annual Caerusnet Breakfast — and this year, I got the honor of emceeing the event. Let’s just say, when Steve’s in town, the energy shifts. The man is a master connector, facilitator, community builder, and culture curator — and in this conversation, we go deep.From the power of shaking the tree for opportunity (instead of waiting for apples to fall in your lap), to the reason Caerusnet isn’t for everyone — Steve gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly means to build a tribe of givers and difference makers.We unpack stories of growth, comebacks, and what it takes to stay in the game when the entrepreneurial grind gets real.This episode is a masterclass in building community, doing business with the right people, and refusing to play small.So if you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, questioned your value, or felt like giving up — this one’s for you. You’re closer than you think. Just keep shaking the damn tree.

This episode features a powerhouse Difference Maker—Rhonda Trask, founder of Hearts CRi Michigan (HCRi)—who’s rewriting the story for foster, adoptive, and kinship families across the state.If you’ve never walked alongside a foster, adoptive, or kinship family—you probably have no idea just how isolating, exhausting, and misunderstood the journey can be. But Rhonda does. And she’s made it her mission to see these families, hear them, and empower them with real tools to heal trauma and build confidence in kids and caregivers alike.In this powerful conversation, we talk about:🔥 What it means to parent two different brains—trauma and neurotypical—and why the same playbook won’t cut it🔥 The difference between being trauma-informed vs. trauma-responsive (it’s massive)🔥 Why foster families burn out—and how the right support systems can stop the cycle🔥 How a single moment at a dinner table lit a fire in Rhonda that became Hearts CRi🔥 What a real win looks like for a child who’s only known survival mode🔥 The bold new ways Rhonda’s building wraparound support, trauma-informed OT, IEP advocacy, and even dreams of a full family healing camp This isn’t a feel-good story.It’s a call to action. Because as Rhonda says: “Not everyone is called to foster or adopt. But everyone can do something.” Whether you're a parent, an educator, or someone looking for a way to make real impact—you need to hear this story.☕ So grab your coffee and tune in. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of trauma, empathy, and what it really takes to make a difference.

What happens when you combine Southern grit, global business leadership, a little Café Du Monde, and a whole lot of faith?You get Tom Rivers.In the very first episode recorded in our new content studio (after a few hard lessons and black screens, of course), Tom and I dive into a rich conversation about starting from scratch, chasing vision, and building a life and business with purpose. From his Cajun roots and coffee memories in New Orleans, to launching products across continents with Ford and Harmon, Tom shares what it really looks like to persevere—not just in business, but in life, marriage, and faith.We talk about the power of story, the pain of self-doubt, and the joy of finding clarity in your purpose. Tom opens up about his bold move into C12, a faith-driven business advisory franchise, and how he’s now pouring everything he’s learned into helping other Christian CEOs lead with excellence—at home and in the workplace.This episode hits on everything:🔥 Starting over with vision🙏 Leadership with Biblical values💬 Spouses giving the truth we need to hear📈 Owning your ideal client and message💥 And how one tattoo, inked during a war in Jerusalem, tells the story of Tom’s entire journeyIf you’re an entrepreneur walking by faith, building something meaningful, or wrestling with the grind—this one’s going to resonate.So pour a cup of chicory if you’ve got it and buckle up—this conversation is equal parts heart, hustle, and Holy Spirit.

Karyn Kokeny didn’t just pivot careers—she flipped the whole damn script.In this fire-packed conversation, we talk about what it really takes to build a business, develop confidence, and 10X your life from the inside out. From her early days coaching gymnastics to climbing the corporate ladder to aligning with the Grant Cardone team, Karyn’s journey is a full-circle transformation fueled by mindset, mentorship, and straight-up grit.This isn’t a story about leaving something—it’s about stepping into your power and choosing more.We dive into:Why most people misunderstand what sales really isHow coaching helped Karyn shift her mindset and become a confident closerThe structure and discipline behind real business growthWhy self-care and belief are just as important as your pitchAnd how branding and storytelling build authentic trust that drives resultsIf you’ve ever felt like you were “meant for more” but didn’t know how to get out of your own way—this one’s your permission to stop playing small.Sales isn’t sleazy. It’s service. It’s belief. And when you own it, it becomes your superpower.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Get to know Karyn’s work!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kokenycoachingandconsultingInsta: https://www.instagram.com/karynkokeny/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karynkokeny/X: https://x.com/karyn_kokenyEmail: hello@karynkokeny.com

What does it take to turn a life-shattering diagnosis into a mission that empowers millions? In this deeply personal and raw episode, Heather Ruby, founder of With Haven AI, shares how she transformed her husband’s cancer battle into a lifeline for caregivers.Heather takes us on a powerful journey—from the panic of an unexpected diagnosis to the overwhelming weight of being a caregiver, while running a business and raising a family. She reveals how she built With Haven AI, a first-of-its-kind app that uses AI’s emotional intelligence to support caregivers around the clock.Heather’s story isn’t just about overcoming—it’s about building something that didn’t exist, driven by love, grit, and the refusal to let cancer steal everything. Her vulnerability and unwavering determination to help others are a testament to the power of Difference Makers.Tune in to hear how pain became purpose, and how one woman’s battle cry is set to change the world for caregivers everywhere.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Get to know Heather’s work!Website: https://withhaven.org Insta: https://www.instagram.com/withhavenai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-ruby-21a06019/Email: heather@withhaven.org Waitlist Link: https://forms.gle/fiDPeEc5VArfEZqB9

Ready to turn relentless curiosity into real-world freedom?In this high-voltage conversation, Jason sits down with Audrey Schultz—“Modern Frontierswoman,” successful blogger, vacation-rental investor, interior-designer-turned-realtor, and self-taught Spanish speaker—just days after they first met in Difference Maker Bootcamp. Audrey peels back the curtain on her three-year, no-pay grind to monetize her gardening blog, the burnout fights and mindset shifts that kept her pressing “publish” when nobody was reading, and the Pinterest traffic tsunami that finally changed everything. She shares how translating a Spanish memoir on a whim led her to write her own 111-k-word fantasy novel, and why learning 15 new Spanish words a day during lockdown rewired her inner monologue—and her network. Jason draws out the lessons behind Audrey’s bold pivots: buying her first foreclosure at 21, convincing her retired parents to cash-flow a duplex (and transform their retirement), and using intuition over “one-size-fits-all” sales scripts to serve clients at the highest level.You’ll hear hard-won truths on consistency, patience, and trusting your gut, plus practical riffs on blogging revenue streams, short-term-rental math, and building a referral web that stretches nationwide. By the end, you’ll see why our passions—no matter how random—are never wasted, and how every skill we nurture becomes another tool for freedom.Plug in, pour a dangerous amount of coffee, and discover how to turn your restless curiosity into a platform, a business, and a purpose-driven life you never need to escape.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Get to know Audrey’s work!Website: https://listwithaudrey.comWebsite: https://modernfrontierswoman.comWebsite: https://beavertaillodge.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Audrey-Schultz/61574688170057/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/modernfrontierswoman/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/audrey.schultz.realtor/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/beavertaillodge/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrey-schultz-7291731a/Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/schultzau/Email: audrey.schultz@exprealty.com Saturnino Rodriguez’s Magazine: http://adelanteforward.com/editions/

What does it take to build a business that doesn’t just survive, but thrives on trust, integrity, and the power of human connection?  In this weeks episode, Nate Varilone, founder of Varilone Construction, takes us behind the scenes of his journey from laying tile in his first winter to building a thriving construction company known for its tight-knit team, meaningful relationships, and unwavering commitment to doing things right.Nate’s story isn’t just about construction—it’s about building a culture of trust and loyalty. From learning the trade with a mentor, to turning every challenge into an opportunity, Nate shares how he’s grown a company rooted in family values and relentless problem-solving. We talk about the bumps in the road, the breakthroughs, and the unspoken lessons that turn a business into a mission.Whether you’re an entrepreneur chasing your next milestone or a leader striving to build a team that stands by you, Nate’s candid insights into leadership, scaling, and the power of genuine care will leave you inspired and ready to roll up your sleeves.Tune in and discover why success isn’t just about the bottom line—it’s about the people who make it possible.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Get to know Nate’s work!Website: https://variloneconstruction.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/varilonetile/ Email: variloneconstruction@gmail.com

What if the very thing you’ve been hiding could become your greatest source of power?In this unforgettable episode of Coffee & Grit, Jason sits down with Lindsey Hall—a passionate artist, photographer, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate—whose journey will both break your heart and light your fire.From the early days of shooting portraits with a hand-me-down camera to building not one, but two thriving photography studios, Lindsey shares the raw truth about chasing a dream while managing bipolar disorder, raising two daughters as a single mom, and helping others uncover their own self-worth.But this conversation goes deeper than business. Lindsey opens up about her struggles with depression, navigating manic episodes, and the turning point that led to a diagnosis that changed her life. She doesn’t just talk about self-love—she lives it, breathes it, and captures it in powerful body empowerment sessions that help clients see themselves like never before.This episode is packed with vulnerable moments, behind-the-scenes stories, and hard-won wisdom—from the launch of her “Self Love” boudoir brand to the importance of support systems, small wins, and breaking the stigma around mental illness.-If you’ve ever felt like you weren’t enough… this episode is for you.-If you’ve ever put your dreams on hold out of fear… this episode is for you.-If you need a reminder of your power, your beauty, and your worth… this episode is for you.Tune in, lean in—and let this conversation remind you of the magic that happens when you show up, do the damn thing, and let people see the real you. Learn more about Jason's work!Website:  Facebook:  Insta:  Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn:  Email: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Guest Links:Website: happyowlphotography.comWebsite: self-lovephotography.comFacebook: @happyowlphotoFacebook: @selflovephoto

Ever had that whisper inside telling you there’s more?This solo episode flips the script and takes you deep into The Alchemist—not as a book review, but as a mirror to the entrepreneur’s journey. From dreams that won’t let go, to fears that keep us stuck, to the wild synchronicities that show up once we commit—this is about the power of owning your story, stepping into your Personal Legend, and trusting that the universe is conspiring in your favor.Jason gets raw and real about his own journey—leaving comfort for calling, fighting the voice of “not enough,” and discovering that the treasure isn’t at the end... it’s in the becoming.If you’ve ever questioned your path, felt the fear of pursuing a bigger dream, or wondered if you’re the only one feeling lost mid-climb—this one’s for you. This episode will challenge your excuses, shift your narrative, and remind you: You were built for this.Let’s go make your dream happen.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Options For The Alchemist:Amazon: The Alchemist 25th Anniversary: A Fable About Following Your Dream$14.24Amazon.com30-day returns208 pages · Fiction · NovelAudible: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Alchemist-Audiobook/B002V0Q4LG

What if the “boring” routine is the secret to living your wildest dreams? In this powerhouse return to the mic, Mary Vance is back—and she’s more grounded, fiery, and energized than ever. Two years after her Wake the F** Up* episode, we reunite for an unforgettable conversation about what it really means to live the lifestyle, not just preach it.Mary’s not just a coach—she is the billboard for Mary Vance Lifestyle. And this episode is a full-body reminder of what’s possible when you show up consistently, stay rooted in your habits, and live in radical alignment with your values.We cover everything:How daily hydration, movement, nutrition, and rest are the gateway to energy and impactThe power of pattern, structure, and discipline to create freedomRunning retreats in the Virgin Islands while raising a family and building a businessReclaiming brain health after traumatic injury through holistic healing and a wild journey to PeruThe truth about processed food, real wellness, and why your metabolism isn’t “broken”—your routine isRaising a warrior son and watching him literally do reps for JesusThis isn’t just another podcast—it’s a clinic in living with purpose and vitality. Mary brings fire, science, storytelling, and soul—and she holds nothing back.If you’re tired of running on empty or chasing quick fixes, this episode is your wake-up call (again). Come ready to be moved, challenged, and inspired to take full ownership of your energy and your life.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Get to know Mary’s work!Website: https://www.maryvancelifestyle.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Championschoicenutrition/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/maryvancelifestyle/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-vanceTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryvancelifestylecoachEmail: maryvancelifestyle@gmail.com

What if you never came back home—how different would your community be?In this heart-centered episode of Coffee & Grit, I sit down with Erika McNamara—attorney, entrepreneur, and absolute Difference Maker—to unpack a journey that feels like a real-life version of It’s a Wonderful Life. From international business in China to solo law practice in Brighton, Erika’s story is one of reinvention, resilience, and relentless service.This conversation goes deep into what it means to build a business with purpose. Erika opens up about the reality of starting her practice in the 2008 recession, how volunteering became a cornerstone of her business model, and why walking the streets of her hometown is often more powerful than any ad or algorithm.We talk about:The power of real-world connection vs. relying on social media to “get business”How small moments—like a coffee chat or a parking lot convo—can change everythingWhat younger entrepreneurs need (and aren’t getting) when it comes to mentorshipWhy knowing what you’re not good at might be your greatest strengthAnd the emotional weight (and peace) of planning for life’s hardest momentsErika doesn’t just talk about community—she creates it. And this episode is a masterclass in showing up, building trust, and being the kind of person people remember.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Get to know Erika’s work!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erikamcnamaralaw/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/mcnamaralawfirm/Email: erikamcnamaralaw@gmail.com

What happens when you trade in your classroom for the coaching seat — and let your story fuel your impact?In this powerful episode of Coffee & Grit, I sit down with Julia Keider, a former teacher who turned her passion for people and purpose into a thriving coaching and consulting career. Julia’s journey isn’t just about making a career move — it’s about honoring your life experiences, embracing your full story, and realizing that the next chapter can be even more fulfilling than the last.From growing up in an immigrant family in Brighton, MI, to raising her own kids while navigating personal loss and professional pivots, Julia opens up about what it really means to build a life that’s connected, meaningful, and purpose-driven. We dive into her transition from the classroom to the boardroom, the power of listening deeply, and how she helps leaders slow down the noise to unlock their own potential.We explore:The lessons hidden in every chapter of your life (yes, even the hard ones).How to move past the "I'm just a teacher" mindset and build something bigger.The art of asking the right questions to create transformation.Why being a coach (and a parent) means modeling the very growth you want to inspire.And how to create spaces — at work, at home, and in your community — that foster connection and purpose.If you’ve ever felt stuck in your current role, wondered if it’s too late to start over, or questioned if your experiences really matter in the next phase of your journey, this episode is for you.Spoiler alert: you’ve got more in the tank than you think.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Get to know Julia’s work!Website: https://www.keiderconsulting.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-keider/Email: juliakeider@keiderconsulting.com

What if the problem isn’t conflict—but the way we define it?In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Coffee & Grit, I sit down with the legendary leader & EOS Implementer Mike Gruley to stir the pot on a topic most people avoid: communication that creates breakthroughs, not breakdowns.We unpack the silent killer of progress—artificial harmony—and explore how most people confuse healthy conversation with conflict. From family blowups to business breakdowns, we explore why people avoid the uncomfortable, and what happens when we finally stop dancing around the truth.Mike brings his decades of leadership wisdom to the table with humor, empathy, and raw storytelling. We dive into everything from childhood conditioning to boardroom dynamics, and how curiosity—not judgment—is the secret to building unstoppable teams.We cover: 🔥 The lie we’ve been sold about conflict🔥 How to get real without making it personal🔥 The power of asking better questions🔥 What happens when you lead with vulnerability🔥 How EOS and core values transform culture from the inside out🔥 And yes… the infamous “doggy or sheep” metaphor that will change how you see miscommunication foreverIf you’re tired of surface-level BS, if you’ve been losing sleep over conversations you’re not having, or if you’re ready to become the kind of leader people run through walls for—this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.Hell is meeting the person you could have been.Start the conversation that sets you free.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931 Get to know Mike’s work!Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/mike-gruleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-gruley/

In this special solo episode of Coffee & Grit, Jason Tracey takes the mic to share the raw, unfiltered journey of self-discovery, resilience, and stepping fully into your purpose.After a last-minute cancellation, Jason seizes the opportunity to dive deep into the power of self-awareness—understanding what truly energizes you, drives you, and defines your superpower. From reflecting on personal habits that fuel success to recognizing the mental roadblocks that hold us back, this episode is a masterclass in unlocking your potential.Jason pulls back the curtain on his own struggles with burnout, limiting beliefs, and the hard lessons that forced him to redefine his business and purpose. He shares how he went from working with draining clients just to “pay the bills” to fully embracing his mission—empowering the empowerers. Through deeply personal stories, he explores how clarity, belief, and storytelling can reshape your reality and attract the right opportunities.This episode is packed with hard-hitting insights on:🔥 The importance of recognizing your own energy triggers🔥 How to shift from survival mode to purpose-driven action🔥 The power of storytelling in business and leadership🔥 Why getting clear on your mission is the key to unlocking new doors🔥 How to rewrite your internal narrative to break free from limitationsIf you’re feeling stuck, drained, or struggling to communicate your value, this is the episode you need. Tune in and discover how to uncage your beast, step into your difference-making power, and create the impact you were meant for.Learn more about Jason's work!Website: https://www.roar.consultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsultInsta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employeesEmail: jasontracey@roar.consultingPhone: (810) 522-8931