In this heartfelt conversation, Michelle DeGrange and Cindy discuss the challenges and triumphs of motherhood, particularly in the context of raising a child with autism. They explore themes of healing, acceptance, and the importance of community support. Both women share their personal journeys, emphasizing the need for self-care, the power of vulnerability, and the significance of shifting mindsets to embrace life's challenges. The discussion highlights the emotional complexities of parenting, the impact of societal expectations, and the transformative power of gratitude and grace.

In this episode of 'Grit, Grace, and Resilience,' host Michelle DeGrange engages in a heartfelt conversation with her friend Mel Lindmeyer, exploring Mel's journey through a challenging childhood marked by instability and adversity. They discuss the importance of friendship, the lessons learned from their experiences, and the impact of community and acts of service. Mel shares her insights on independence, motherhood, and the value of honest relationships, emphasizing that everyone has a story of overcoming challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of emotional growth, the role of therapy, and the beauty of creating a supportive family and community. Ultimately, they reflect on the importance of embracing life's imperfections and looking forward to the future with hope and resilience.

In this episode of Grit, Grace, and Resilience, host Michelle DeGrange interviews holistic health practitioner Sophia West. They discuss Sophia's journey from pain to power, exploring the importance of holistic health, the impact of childhood trauma, and the healing power of forgiveness. Sophia shares her insights on the significance of community support, the journey of self-discovery, and the necessity of giving oneself permission to grieve. The conversation emphasizes that individuals are not defined by their past experiences but are in a continuous state of becoming, with the potential for healing and growth. You can work with Sophia and contact her through her website https://sophiawest.com/about/

At 23,000 feet on the side of Mount Everest, Dawn Aiken—nurse practitioner, autoimmune warrior, and survivor—faced the ultimate decision: fight to live or let go. In this raw and powerful episode, Dawn shares her deeply personal healing journey, how she reclaimed her health after a devastating diagnosis, and why choosing life sometimes requires climbing the impossible. This is a story of grit, grace, and what it means to come home to yourself—body, mind, and soul.

“Grief doesn’t wait for the perfect moment—and neither does autism.”
In this raw clip, I open up about losing my sister and becoming guardian to her two beautiful children—while learning to navigate the world of autism, trauma, and healing in real-time. This is for anyone trying to hold it all together when life hits hardest. 💛

Welcome to the first ever episode of Grit, Grace & Resilience—where we keep it real, raw, and occasionally ridiculous. I’m Michelle DeGrange, and in this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my story: a wild ride through childhood chaos, undiagnosed ADHD (shoutout to finally figuring that out in adulthood), a 20-year toxic marriage, and the gut-wrenching loss of my sister.

But this isn’t a pity party—it’s a power party. Because somewhere in the mess, I found my voice, my purpose, and my unshakeable belief that women are tougher than life gives us credit for. If you’ve ever felt like you were surviving more than thriving, or if you’ve yelled “what the actual hell?!” at the universe more than once—this is your place.

Let’s laugh, cry, and rise together. Hit play. You’re not alone anymore.

takeaways

• This podcast is for women who have done really hard things.
• Chaos was my normal growing up, and I didn't know any different.
• I became a chameleon, losing track of who I was.
• ADHD diagnosis brought clarity and understanding to my life.
• Leaving my abusive marriage was walking towards myself for the first time.
• I had to learn how to parent two grieving girls after my sister's death.
• Friendships are like leaves and branches on a tree; some are temporary, some are lifelong.
• I finally understand my purpose through my pain.
• This podcast is a space for women to share their stories of resilience.
• In the hardest seasons, there is hope and healing.