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/37by27

Follow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcasts

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.com

You can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaid

Really 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!!

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/37by27

Follow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcasts

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.com

You can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here

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!

Follow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.Show or Shawna @ShawnaPodcasts

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.com

You can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaid

Really 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!!