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 you
• What sports and military teams can teach us about leadership, culture, and execution
• How Desi uses DISC profiles, football analogies, and simple frameworks to build better leaders
• Why vulnerability, absolute accountability, and clear expectations are non-negotiable in leadership
• And how building stronger businesses starts with building stronger people and families

This one is packed with raw stories, hard truths, and real talk about what it actually takes to lead. Whether you’re a coach, solopreneur, or leading a growing team — this episode will give you a new lens on leadership and a playbook to start building your own Super Bowl-worthy business.

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931 

Get to know Desi’s work!
Website: https://maynerleadership.com/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desi.mayner 
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/desimayner/ 
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@desimayner 
Email: [email protected] 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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, heals, and thrives… without surgery, without shortcuts, and without giving up.

And because of that, Pete didn’t just fix his back. He found his True North—his calling to help others do the same. Now, through True North Corrective Exercise and Uncle Pete’s Produce, Pete is a Difference Maker on a mission to help people take ownership of their health, reclaim their potential, and live the life they were meant for.

In this Coffee & Grit episode, we get raw about:
🔥 How Pete overcame pain, doubt, and isolation to rebuild his life from the inside out
🔥 Why he believes pain is a teacher—not a life sentence
🔥 What it means to stop outsourcing your power and start taking control of your healing
🔥 How community, faith, and cold plunges (yeah, we talk about that) keep him grounded
🔥 And why Pete shows up every day to serve others who’ve been told “this is just the way it is.”

This isn’t just a comeback story.
It’s a blueprint for rewriting your own.

Tune in and get ready to uncage your beast.
Because if Pete can do it, so can you.

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931 

Get to know Pete’s work!
Website: https://www.tndirection.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pete.lopez.758
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/truenorthpetel/
Email: [email protected] 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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 unstuck, scale their businesses, and build thriving teams through EOS—and she mentors new EOS Implementers to do the same.

In this episode, we dive into:
✔️ How Jackie helps entrepreneurs bust through their leadership ceiling
✔️ Why EOS is a game-changer for visionaries tired of running in circles
✔️ The power of process, accountability, and building teams you can trust
✔️ Mentorship moments that change everything (shout out to Cheryl!)
✔️ What it takes to live the EOS Life—freedom, fulfillment, and massive impact
✔️ How empowering the empowerers creates a ripple effect that changes lives

Jackie’s story is a masterclass in resilience, purpose, and doing the hard work to help others succeed. Whether you’re a visionary entrepreneur, a leader feeling stuck, or someone craving the freedom to do work you love, this conversation will show you what’s possible when you lean into your next chapter.

🔗 Tune in now and start breaking through your ceiling like the Difference Maker you’re meant to be!

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931 

Get to know Jackie’s work!
Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/jackie-kibler
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackiekiblereos
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jackiekiblereos/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiekiblereos/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jackiekiblereos 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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 showing up authentically to create content that actually works. We dive into:

✔️ Why consistency is key—just like going to the gym 🏋️‍♂️
✔️ How video content builds relationships (even before you meet someone)
✔️ The power of hyper-local content & community collaboration
✔️ Why niching down attracts more of the right clients
✔️ How to uncover your superpower and leverage it in your marketing
✔️ The biggest mindset shifts entrepreneurs need to make around content creation

If you’ve ever felt stuck, self-conscious, or overwhelmed by social media, this episode will give you the permission to be yourself—and the confidence to share your story in a way that actually connects with people.

🔗 Tune in now and start showing up like the Difference Maker you are!#Marketing #SocialMedia #Authenticity #Entrepreneurship #ContentCreation

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931 

Get to know Meaghan and Lori’s work!
Website: https://realleveragesolutions.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realleveragesolutions
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/real_leverage/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@realleveragesolutions
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@real_leverage
Email: [email protected]

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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 performers from the rest—grit, consistency, and the courage to put yourself out there.

This conversation dives deep into the power of cold calling in today’s world—why it works, why most people fear it, and how mastering the skill can open doors (literally and figuratively). Danny and Jason unpack the mindset shifts that turn rejection into opportunity, how to refine your approach, and why slowing down and listening is the real game-changer in business and life.

Beyond sales, Danny gets personal about fatherhood, leadership, and the lessons that shape us. He opens up about the challenges of balancing work and family, the struggles of raising children with unique needs, and how faith and perseverance fuel his journey.

Through it all, Danny has proven that the right approach to sales isn’t about luck—it’s about resilience, relationships, and playing the long game. His efforts have been instrumental in Populist Cleaning Co.’s continued success, proving that sales isn’t just about transactions—it’s about trust.

If you’ve ever questioned whether cold calling is dead—or whether you have what it takes to push through adversity—this episode will hit home. Tune in for a raw, real, and energizing conversation that reminds us: the hardest work reaps the biggest rewards.

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931 

Get to know Danny and his work!
Website: https://populistcleaning.com/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/populistcleaningco 
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/populistcleaningco/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/populist-cleaning-co-/
Email: [email protected] 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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 Livingston County.

Scott shares how his journey in hockey led him to this mission, the resistance he faced in the early days, and how faith, teamwork, and a relentless commitment to giving back turned this vision into a 16-year legacy. We dive into the behind-the-scenes work it takes to pull off an event like this, the power of community support, and why true impact is about more than just writing a check—it’s about showing up and being involved.

From Shop With a Cop to Torch 180 and the Amber Reineck House, Hockey Night isn’t just about hockey—it’s about changing lives. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to turn your passion into purpose and leave a lasting impact, this episode is one you don’t want to miss.

🎟 Hockey Night 2024 is happening on April 5 at Ice Den 140 in Howell, MI. Don’t just hear about it—be part of it. Ticket info is in the show notes!

🚨 Listen now and get ready to be inspired! 🚨

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931
 
Get to know Scott and his work!
Website: https://www.thewellmi.com/hockey-night/
Tickets: https://new.biddingowl.com/hockeynight
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HNinB
Email: [email protected] 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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 down the difference between transactional selling and relationship-driven business, why listening is the most underrated sales skill, and how a single mindset shift can take you from struggling to thriving. Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or looking for a new way to approach success, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.

If you’re ready to build a business that grows on trust, referrals, and impact—tune in now!

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931 

Get to know Connor and his work!
Website: https://www.healthmarkets.com/local-health-insurance-agent/cmessina/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConnorMessinaHealth/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-messina
Email: [email protected] 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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 courage it took to protect her children, the sacrifices she made, and the humor and love that held their family together through the darkest times.  

Jason and Shari share powerful lessons on breaking generational cycles, finding purpose in adversity, and the transformative power of authenticity and empathy. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a celebration of the Difference Makers who shape our lives.  

Tune in for this special episode filled with emotional stories, unforgettable life lessons, and an inspiring reminder of the strength we all carry within us.  

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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 connections.
🏡 How historic buildings are being transformed into cultural hubs.
🚀 The power of asking "Why not me?"—and taking the leap to create something bigger than yourself.
🔥 The ripple effect of difference makers and why every town has a story worth telling.

This episode is a call to action for entrepreneurs, creatives, and community leaders—don’t wait for change, be the change.

🔗 Follow Echoes in the Iron and join the movement at echoesintheiron.com.

🎧 Tune in now and let’s spark a revolution—one song, one town, one story at a time!

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931 

Get to know Bill and his work!
Website: https://billarnoldmusic.com
Website: https://onetontrolley.com
Website: https://www.integratedlifeco.com/echoes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onetontrolley/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Echoes-In-The-Iron/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/billarnoldmusic/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/onetontrolley/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/echoesintheiron/
Email: [email protected] 

Get to know Brandon and his work!
Website: https://www.integratedlifeco.com
Website: https://www.integratedlifeco.com/echoes
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Echoes-In-The-Iron/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/worklifetrailblazer/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/echoesintheiron/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-still
Email: [email protected] 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.

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’s work transforms lives one step at a time.

This episode explores how vulnerability and empathy can be game-changers in both health and entrepreneurship. Plus, Kelly opens up about her personal experience with her mom’s cancer journey and how it shaped her mission to create hope and lasting change for others.Get ready to be inspired and empowered to own your health journey, ditch the cookie-cutter solutions, and take steps to become the 2.0 version of yourself!

🎧 Tune in now to discover the impact of grit, personalized care, and creating meaningful movement.

Learn more about Jason's work!
Website: https://www.roar.consulting
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtroarconsult
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/roarconsultinginc/
Tik Tok: tiktok.com/@coffeeandgritpodcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-tracey?trk=org-employees
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (810) 522-8931 

Get to know Kelly and her work!
Website: https://www.champtherapyandwellness.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/champtherapyandwellness
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/champtherapyandwellness/ 
Email: [email protected] 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/coffee-grit--5708348/support.