In this episode of Calm and Confident, I open up about the power of giving your best in every season of life—whether you're in a dream job, a transition, or a dusty town hall teaching fitness. I share my journey from journalism school to entrepreneurship, and how “thriving where I was planted” led me to unexpected opportunities, from writing for major newspapers to opening my own award-winning health club. This episode is a reminder that greatness begins by showing up hard, right where you are. Each effort, no matter how small, can plant the seeds for something bigger.

"You never know who’s watching when you show up hard—it might just be the person who opens your next door." - Trina Gray

Key Takeaways:

• I thrive by showing up hard, even in small rooms – Whether I was speaking at a junior high or teaching in a rec center, I gave it my all. That effort always led to something more.
• I believe every stage of life matters – From student to entrepreneur, I’ve seen firsthand how giving my best—even when the audience was small—created ripple effects.
• I used the Ms. Pac-Man mindset – Like the game, when I moved forward with excellence, new doors and levels unlocked.
• I built community by being present – In a new town with no connections, I created a following by pouring heart and hustle into every fitness class I taught.
• I’ve learned the magic of saying yes – A simple banquet speech turned into a national speaking gig years later. Showing up opened doors I didn’t even know existed.

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