What happens when the life you built no longer feels like your own?

In this conversation, Michelle sits down with mental health professional, author, and speaker Nic Collins to talk about leaving corporate America, rebuilding his identity, and learning to see vulnerability as a strength rather than something to hide.

They explore the power of saying things out loud, finding community that allows you to show up honestly, releasing the pressure to be everything for everyone, and taking action before you have the entire path figured out.

Because you’re not behind, and step one is simply taking one step.

Learn more about Nic:

Nic Collins is a public speaker, mental health professional, and author with a passion for helping others live with authenticity, confidence, and alignment. He is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Maxwell Leadership certified speaker, coach, and facilitator.

He is the author of ADVANCE: Discover Alignment and Authenticity by Living in Concert With Your Situation. He is creator and co-host of the Constant Quest Podcast, and curator of The Constant Quest men's gathering in the mountains of north Georgia, focusing on community, connection, and growth.

Connect with Nic:

Website: https://niccollinsauthentic.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nic_collins_authentic/

Purchase a copy of ADVANCE: https://a.co/d/0cv8hWGN

Have a question? Send us a message!

Connect with Michelle:

Website: michellegruening.com
Instagram: @michellegruening
LinkedIn: Michelle Gruening

Michelle never expected to become a soccer fan, but the Men’s World Cup pulled her in fast.

In this episode of This Is Nothing New™, she shares the reminders she found in the tournament: the power of community, the joy of being a beginner again, the clarity that comes from participation, and why talent means very little without character.

It’s a light, personal episode about learning something new, finding unexpected joy, and paying attention to the lessons hiding in the things we love.

Have a question? Send us a message!

Connect with Michelle:

Website: michellegruening.com
Instagram: @michellegruening
LinkedIn: Michelle Gruening

For years, Michelle believed doing everything herself was proof that she was capable. In reality, the lone-wolf mindset was keeping her isolated, overwhelmed, and unsupported.

In this episode of This Is Nothing New™, she shares the five roles that make up a strong personal advisory board: the mentor, connector, accountability buddy, coach, and contrarian. She breaks down what each person brings to your life, why one person cannot be everything for you, and how to identify the role you need most right now.

You were never meant to do this alone. The real question is: who’s missing from your board?

Have a question? Send us a message!

Connect with Michelle:

Website: michellegruening.com
Instagram: @michellegruening
LinkedIn: Michelle Gruening