Episode Description

In 2006, Terry Grahl received a simple phone call asking if she'd volunteer to paint one wall at a women's shelter. What she discovered in that dormitory—30 women sleeping on prison-donated bunk beds held together with duct tape—changed the trajectory of her life forever. Today, Terry is the founder and CEO of Enchanted Makeovers, a national nonprofit that has transformed shelter spaces across the country for women and children escaping domestic violence and human trafficking.

In this powerful conversation, Terry shares how her own experience with childhood homelessness became the compass for serving "the girl within" every woman she meets. From cold-emailing mattress companies to getting doors slammed in her face at paint stores, Terry demonstrates exactly how to build something meaningful from nothing—using what she calls "putting the cart before the horse" and trusting that each next step will reveal itself.

You'll discover Terry's revolutionary "feeling-first" approach to creating change, why she calls the women she serves "warriors" instead of victims, and how a polka-dotted pillow became the divine signal that launched a movement. This is a masterclass in turning personal pain into purpose and proof that you don't need credentials, resources, or even a plan—you just need to say yes to what calls to your heart.

Key Topics Discussed

• How childhood homelessness shaped Terry's calling to serve others
• The moment a polka-dotted pillow changed everything
• Building a national nonprofit without money, volunteers, or experience
• Why focusing on feelings rather than logistics creates breakthrough results
• The power of "putting the cart before the horse" when starting something new
• How to turn rejection into motivation and keep moving forward
• Why authentic vulnerability opens more doors than perfect presentations
• The difference between helping victims vs. empowering warriors
• Creating sustainable impact through community and collaboration
• The importance of protecting your mission from partnerships that don't align

Guest Bio

Terry Grahl is the founder and CEO of Enchanted Makeovers, a national nonprofit dedicated to transforming shelter spaces for women and children who have escaped domestic violence and human trafficking. What began as a simple request to paint one wall has grown into a movement that has renovated shelters across the country and created innovative programs like the Cape Program for children and Pillowcase Dreams initiative.

Terry's approach combines practical transformation with emotional healing, focusing on creating spaces where women can envision hope and children can remember their inner superpowers. Her work has been featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show and continues to expand nationally through a network of volunteers and donors who share her vision of serving "the girl within" every person who needs support.

How to Support Enchanted Makeovers

Visit enchantedmakeovers.org to learn more about their programs and impact. Email Terry directly to share what you love to do—as she says, "You now have become a messenger for the mission." Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @enchantedmakeovers.

Whether you're a podcaster, writer, or simply someone who wants to serve from your unique talents, Terry invites you to join the "enchanted train" that's moving forward to create change.

Connect with Terry

• Website: enchantedmakeovers.org
• Facebook: @enchantedmakeovers
• Instagram: @enchantedmakeovers

About The Uplifters Podcast

The Uplifters Podcast is the 2023 Gold Signal Award Winner for Most Inspiring Podcast. Hosted by Aransas Savas, this show is dedicated to celebrating women who have found something beautiful on the other side of hard stuff and are making their corner of the world better. Each episode shares the deeply personal stories of inspiring women who have worked through challenges to create big, joyful lives, revealing how their blocks and barriers became tools for success.

Connect with Aransas

• Website: theuplifterspodcast.com
• Instagram: @aransas_savas
• LinkedIn: Aransas Savas

Subscribe to The Uplifters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Leave a rating and review to help more uplifters discover these inspiring stories.

This episode was produced with support from our incredible team at Produce Your Podcast. Music by Savannah Savas.