Welcome back to The Grand Valli Experience — where creative empowerment, local talent, and business experience collide.

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Carson, founder of Alchemy Training, to talk about how a $5 fitness idea turned into a growing business rooted in purpose, self-doubt, and discipline.

From being a college athlete and coach to launching a training platform for athletes and everyday people alike, Carson shares how belief, vulnerability, and "one more rep" can change everything — in fitness, in life, and in business.

We talk about the evolution of professional ambition, the power of starting small, the myth of perfectionism, and why Grand Junction is more than a place — it’s part of the process.

Whether you’re chasing your goals, starting your own business, or learning how to stay consistent in a chaotic season, this one’s for you. It’s raw, real, and reminds us that building anything meaningful—fitness or otherwise—takes time, trust, and the decision to just keep going.

🔗 Connect with Carson:

Follow her on Instagram: Alchemy With Carson

Check out her $5 workouts: $5 Workout Subscription

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The GrandValli Experience | Episode 4: Liz McCormack – Athletic Trainer & Artisan

In this episode of The GrandValli Experience, we dive into creativity, community, and the art of balancing passions. Salina sits down with Liz McCormack—an athletic trainer and artisan based in Grand Junction, Colorado—whose work spans from healing bodies to handcrafting beautiful bracelets, lanyards, anklets, and more.

Liz opens up about her journey: how she discovered her dual love for sports medicine and crafting, what keeps her grounded, and why she feels deeply connected to her local community. From the athletic field to the artist’s table, Liz shares how both sides of her work are rooted in care, intention, and impact.

Whether you’re into wellness, handmade goods, or stories about pursuing multiple passions, this episode offers inspiration, insight, and a fresh perspective on what it means to build a meaningful life in Grand Junction.

🎧 Listen now to hear how Liz blends athletic training with artisan craft—and what she hopes the local community continues to grow into.

🔗 Connect with Liz McCormack:

Follow her on Instagram: Half Hitch Knots (@half_hitch_knots) • Instagram photos and videos

Watch this episode on YouTube

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GrandValli (@grandvalli) • Instagram photos and videos

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The GrandValli Experience | Episode 3: Anastaja Braden of Posh Salon

This episode is all about passion, purpose, and showing up for people in a way that really matters. Salina sits down with Anastaja Braden—a talented cosmetologist at Posh Salon who genuinely loves helping women feel beautiful, confident, and seen.

They talk about everything from what got Anastaja into beauty to the ups and downs of school, moving, finding her groove, and the joy she gets from doing hair and makeup. It’s raw, real, and full of gems—about growing through your journey, learning as you go, and doing what you love even when it’s hard.

Whether you’re in the beauty world or just love hearing from people who care deeply about what they do—this episode will speak to you.

🎧 Press play and come hang out with us.

Connect with Anastaja Braden:

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The GrandValli Experience Episode 2

In today’s episode, Salina sits down with Felix Guillen, also known as Falling Castles, the creative mind behind the Undrdawg brand. Felix is a music producer who found his voice through music, using it as a way to express himself and navigate the ups and downs of life.

Felix opens up about his journey—how moving around shaped his relationship with music, the projects he's currently pouring his energy into, and what it really means to have support and community in his life today. This conversation isn’t just about music; it’s about the personal stories, the struggles, and the wins that come with chasing a dream and building something that truly matters.

If you’re someone who’s into music, looking for inspiration, or just want to hear about someone’s real, raw journey to success, this episode is for you.

Tune in for a heartfelt chat about following your passion, finding your purpose, and the power of community.

Connect with Falling Castles:

Follow on Instagram

Watch This Epsiode on YouTube

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The GrandValli Experience is Finally Here!

In today’s episode, Salina sits down with Lena Pyland, the powerhouse behind Lavish Braids Hair Lounge, to dive into her journey as a braider and business owner. Lena opens up about her roots in the craft, the passion that led her to entrepreneurship, and the impact she hopes to make in her community.

From the personal moments that shaped her path to the artistry and dedication behind every braid, this conversation is filled with inspiration, wisdom, and real talk about building something meaningful. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a beauty enthusiast, or just love hearing stories of resilience and success, this one’s for you.

Tune in for an uplifting conversation that’s all about passion, purpose, and the power of community!

Connect with Lavish Braids Hair Lounge:

LAVISH BRAIDS HAIR LOUNGE

Follow on Instagram

Connect with GrandValli:

Watch on YouTube

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Welcome to The GrandValli Experience, where we uncover the stories behind entrepreneurs, creatives, business owners, and professionals in our community. Hosted by Salina, this special series features five inspiring guests sharing their journeys.

Follow, subscribe, and join us for real conversations that matter!

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