Coffee & Grit

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 look...

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 entreprene...

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 ene...

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...

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...

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 misunderstan...

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.

He...

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 wh...

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 chall...

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.
<...

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, fig...

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 radica...

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...

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...

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 o...

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 ha...

There are episodes you record… and then there are episodes you feel in your bones.
This is one of those. An instant classic. One of my favorites of all time.

In this conversation with Stu Strahan, we go way beyond business. Stu opens up with raw honesty about the heartbreak of losing it all — and the long, quiet years of doubt that followed. He shares the moment his son reignited the entrepreneurial fire in him, pulling him out of fear and into the future.

But what makes this episode truly unforgettable is how Stu and his...

From Side Hustle to Snack Sensation: The Spicy Rise of Crosseye’s Ghost Pretzels

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, we sit down with John Hyden a Difference Maker, and someone who turned late-night kitchen experiments into a full-blown viral snack brand. What started as a creative outlet during the 2008 housing crash quickly snowballed into something way bigger… thanks to a little fire, a lot of flavor, and one pickle guy’s review that blew up the internet.

Meet the creator behind Crosseye’s Ghost Pretzels—a visionary who took an old nickname from the '90s and turn...

What if you ran your business like a college football team? That’s the question we unpack in this high-energy reunion with Desi Mayner — one of the original Coffee & Grit guests from way back in Episode 2. So much has changed since his first visit in February 2020 (pre-pandemic!), and Desi’s journey of transformation from coaching athletes to building elite business teams is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, we dive into:
Why most small businesses are structured like losing teams (and how to fix it)The difference between hiring thoroughbreds vs. donkeys — and why it’s costing youWhat sports and...

Pete Lopez was 27 when he got the news no one ever wants to hear.

He had a severe back injury that left him bed ridden for 3 months, and surgery was the only option. His dreams of living an active, pain-free life? Done.

At least, that’s what they told him. But Pete had a choice: accept that story—or rewrite it. What happened next wasn’t just about healing himself. It was about owning his life in a way he never had before.

He committed to learning everything he could about how the body moves...

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, Jason sits down with Jackie Kibler, a powerhouse EOS Implementer and coach who’s on a mission to empower the empowerers. From growing up in a family of entrepreneurs to leading underperforming regions in Fortune 500 companies, Jackie has spent her life helping people break through their limitations—and now, she’s doing it at scale.

Jackie shares her incredible journey from corporate leader to Difference Maker, walking away from the predictable path to step into a role that allows her to change lives on a bigger level. Today, she coaches visionary entrepreneurs to get...

The Secret to Showing Up & Standing Out on Social Media...

Getting in front of a camera and creating content can feel terrifying—even for the most outgoing entrepreneurs. But in today’s world, social media isn’t just a marketing tool; it’s the fastest route to building trust, attracting clients, and growing your business. So why do so many people struggle to hit record?

In this episode, I sit down with Meaghan & Lori Murphy, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind Real Leverage Solutions, to talk about breaking through fear, getting comfortable in front of the camera, and show...

Cold Calling Isn’t Dead—And Neither Is Grit

Listen in as we dive in for an epic episode down with Danny Eller, a true Difference Maker, who has played a pivotal role in driving massive growth at Populist Cleaning Co. With a relentless work ethic and a deep commitment to his craft, Danny has helped elevate the company’s sales strategy, expand its reach, and solidify its reputation in the industry.

From knocking on doors at eight years old to navigating high-stakes B2B sales today, Danny shares the raw truth about what separates top perfor...

What happens when you take a lifelong passion, listen to a calling, and rally a community to make a difference? You create something bigger than yourself!

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, I sit down with Difference Maker Scott DesAutel, founder of Hockey Night, an incredible annual event where the Detroit Red Wings Alumni team hits the ice—not just for the love of the game, but to raise money for organizations in need. What started as a bold idea, met with skepticism and no budget, has now become a powerhouse event raising $30,000–$40,000 annually for local causes in Livi...

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, we dive into a game-changing approach to success—one built not on cold calls and sales pitches, but on genuine relationships and a commitment to serving others.

Listen in as Connor Messina, an Independent Insurance Advisor representing Health Markets, shares his powerful journey from chasing success for himself to shifting his mindset toward helping others—and how that change transformed his entire business. He opens up about the lessons he’s learned through networking, the power of referrals, and why treating people the right way always leads to success.

We break...

EDITORS ANNOUNCEMENT: TISSUES WILL BE NEEDED FOR THIS EPISODE, YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!

In this milestone 200th episode of Coffee and Grit, Jason is joined by his mom, “The Difference Makers Difference Maker,” Shari Espinoza as they take a deeply personal journey. Together, they reflect on a life of resilience, love, and unwavering grit that shaped Jason into the man he is today.  

This raw and heartfelt conversation unpacks their shared experiences of overcoming immense challenges, escaping a cycle of fear and abuse, and building a foundation of hope, strength, and connection. Shari opens up about the co...

What if one song, one story, or one shared experience could reignite the heartbeat of a town?

In this electrifying episode of Coffee & Grit, we're diving into the power of music, community, and entrepreneurship with Brandon Still and Bill Arnold, the visionaries behind Echoes in the Iron. This multimedia project is more than just music—it's a movement. They’re traveling across the Rust Belt, uncovering untold stories, championing local musicians, and breathing new life into small towns that once thrived on industry.We explore:

🎶 The magic of intimate music spaces and how they forge deep human c...

In this inspiring episode of Coffee & Grit, Jason sits down with Kelly Hogan, founder of Champ Therapy & Wellness PLLC, to dive deep into the power of personalized care, resilience, and redefining recovery. Kelly shares her journey from athlete to expert therapist, building a business that helps people regain strength and confidence.

Discover how Kelly’s holistic approach bridges the gap between rehabilitation and long-term wellness by tailoring plans that meet each person’s unique lifestyle and goals. Whether it’s helping stroke survivors walk again, empowering busy parents to prioritize their health, or guiding athletes to prevent injuries, Kelly’...

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, Jason sits down with Bob Shenefelt, visionary's visionary who has built his life around empowering others to unleash their greatness. From his early journey as a top-performing sales leader to his transformative work creating I Matter, a life operating system designed to help people live with clarity, purpose, and intention—Bob’s story is packed with insights and lessons on what it truly means to live authentically. 

Jason and Bob dive into the challenges and triumphs of being a visionary—navigating imposter syndrome, managing expectations, and finding joy amidst chaos. Bob shares how an...

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, Jason sits down with Michelle Carly, founder of Big E-Z Bookkeeping Co, to explore the often-overlooked but crucial role of knowing your numbers in entrepreneurship. From humble beginnings working in a factory to building a thriving bookkeeping business, Michelle shares her remarkable journey of resilience and resourcefulness.

Michelle's passion for empowering small businesses shines as she explains how her innovative, do-it-yourself bookkeeping system evolved over the years—from paper systems sold at Barnes & Noble to a Google Sheets-based solution for today’s entrepreneurs. Jason and Michelle dive into the fears many business owne...

On this episode of Coffee & Grit, I had the privilege of sitting down with Cody, a true difference maker whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. From leaving a steady job at U of M to embracing the challenges of building his own woodworking business, Cody shares his raw and unfiltered story of transformation.

We dive into his evolution from crafting coat racks to creating one-of-a-kind custom furniture that tells a story—like a whale-shaped conference table or pieces made from sentimental family trees. Cody opens up about his struggles with self-doubt, the decision to quit drinking, and ho...

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, Jason Tracey dives into the gritty realities and transformative lessons of entrepreneurship with special guest Sharla Horton. Together, they explore the power of human connection, the art of storytelling, and the value of authenticity in building a successful business.

From breaking through sales challenges to aligning business practices with core values, this episode highlights the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and leveraging resources like the Livingston Business Hub. Sharla and Jason share powerful success stories, including entrepreneurs overcoming plateaus, finding confidence in networking, and achieving game-changing results.

Whether you're looking to...

In this raw and inspiring episode of Coffee & Grit, I sit down with Abigail Hathaway, a Difference Maker who embodies resilience, transformation, and authenticity. Abigail shares her incredible journey of overcoming a tumultuous childhood, navigating the foster care system, and breaking free from generational cycles of trauma.

Her story is one of multiple rebirths, proving that the trials we face can forge the strength to thrive. From embracing neuro-linguistic programming to rewire her mindset to experiencing a spiritual journey of faith and self-discovery, Abigail dives deep into the lessons that have shaped her life.

This conversation...

Do you have your “dangerous amount of coffee” ready for another episode of Coffee and Grit?!?  New this week, Jason Tracey sits down with Christel Meyer, a Difference Maker who transitioned from physical therapy to publishing Stroll magazine for the Oak Pointe community in Brighton Michigan. Christel shares her inspiring journey of overcoming self-doubt, embracing change, and building meaningful connections through her work. From planning successful events like a trunk-or-treat with 150 kids to fostering relationships with residents and sponsors, Christel exemplifies resilience and intentionality.

Christel also reveals her heart warming vision to and plans to launch Your Pet's Best...

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, Jason Tracey sits down with James Pless to explore the intersection of passion, resilience, and family in entrepreneurship. James shares how he and his wife turned a candle-making hobby into a thriving business in Brighton, MI. From starting in a small workspace to building a retail presence and creating custom designs, their journey is a testament to adaptability and grit.

Listen in as Jason and James discuss the challenges of balancing work and family during the pandemic, the importance of being adaptable, efficient, and intentional in both business and personal relationships, and...

New this week on Coffee & Grit, Jason Tracey sits down with Bentley Folse, an entrepreneur who transitioned from culinary school to construction, building a thriving renovation business, HH Renovations. Using the Detroit Lions’ resilience on the field as an analogy, Bentley and Jason explore the parallels between sports grit and entrepreneurial perseverance.

Bentley shares his journey of growing a handyman service into a full-scale renovation company, emphasizing the importance of preparation, trust, and collaboration. He highlights how referrals and building client relationships have been key to his success. With insights on balancing work and family life, adapting to in...

Join Jason Tracey as he has a heart to heart chat with you, as he explores the transformative power of staying true to Yourself as an entrepreneur. Drawing from personal stories and client experiences, Jason emphasizes the importance of staying true to your core values and resisting the pressure to conform to others' expectations. He discusses how aligning your business with your authentic self can attract the right clients and repel those who don’t resonate, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and successful venture.

Jason shares candid anecdotes, including a lost business opportunity over a social media po...

Grab a blanket, get your hot cocoa, and get ready for this week’s episode of Coffee and Grit, which is very timely with the Christmas season right around the corner!  Lindsay Lights, a Difference Making entrepreneur whose mission is to spread light and positivity through her Christmas light installation business.

Lindsay opens up about her personal journey, sharing how the loss of her grandmother, and later her 12 year old sister, ignited her passion to bring light to others. Her business, which started from a love for lights, has grown into a powerful mission focused on community impact and...

New this week on Coffee & Grit...Jason Tracey dives into the world of the Entrepreneurial Operating System with Christine Reyes, a Difference Making integrator whose passion is helping entrepreneurial visionaries turn their big ideas into reality.  Christine shares with us her journey from gym owner to fractional integrator, as well as the vital role of an integrator and the impact of EOS on business growth, emphasizing the importance of having the right people, processes, and core values in place. 

Christine also dives into the unique fulfillment she finds in her work, from forming meaningful client relationships to seeing bu...

In this episode of Coffee & Grit, host Jason Tracey is joined by Dr. Michael Berry, DC, owner and operator of Conquer Chiropractic (TM), who shares his journey of resilience and adaptability in business. Dr. Berry opens up about a recent trademark challenge that required a complete rebranding, including extensive administrative updates and communicating the change to clients. He emphasizes the importance of being flexible and making decisions confidently, even in the face of setbacks.

With stories of patients who have transformed their health through chiropractic care, Dr. Berry highlights the preventative benefits of staying proactive and addressing small...