Shows
Smart Living with Grit and GraceFireworks and Freedom: The Reason Behind Independence Day – 288If your knowledge of how Independence Day came to be is a little fuzzy, settle in for a brief history lesson!
In this podcast episode, co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender recount America’s origin story, starting with Great Britain’s imposition of taxes and military presence in the colonies. You’ll discover how the Declaration of Independence came to be and why it’s significant (see the related resources section below for more), as well as our duty as women of faith (and Americans) to not only recognize our nation’s flaws and failures but to correct th...
2025-07-0114 min
The Grit and Grace ProjectFireworks and Freedom: The Reason Behind Independence Day – 288If your knowledge of how Independence Day came to be is a little fuzzy, settle in for a brief history lesson!
In this podcast episode, co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender recount America’s origin story, starting with Great Britain’s imposition of taxes and military presence in the colonies. You’ll discover how the Declaration of Independence came to be and why it’s significant (see the related resources section below for more), as well as our duty as women of faith (and Americans) to not only recognize our nation’s flaws and failures but to correct th...
2025-07-0114 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceForgiveness to Reconciliation: Part 1 – 283Forgiveness is a radical act—it’s not about holding someone’s offense over their head like a debt, and it’s also not about forgetting what they’ve done. So what is forgiveness in and of itself?
In part one of two in this miniseries on forgiveness to reconciliation, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender debunk several misconceptions around what real forgiveness entails, revealing a much simpler approach that removes the pressure and pain normally associated with it. You’ll learn how your relationship with God plays a critical role in truly forgiving someone and a sample prayer that...
2025-05-2719 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectForgiveness to Reconciliation: Part 1 – 283Forgiveness is a radical act—it’s not about holding someone’s offense over their head like a debt, and it’s also not about forgetting what they’ve done. So what is forgiveness in and of itself?
In part one of two in this miniseries on forgiveness to reconciliation, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender debunk several misconceptions around what real forgiveness entails, revealing a much simpler approach that removes the pressure and pain normally associated with it. You’ll learn how your relationship with God plays a critical role in truly forgiving someone and a sample prayer that...
2025-05-2719 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWhy You Shouldn’t Doubt Your Impact as a Mother – 280Doubt your impact as a mother (or a mother figure)? Don’t—and we’ll tell you why.
In this special Mother’s Day week episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender dissect the complicated role of being a mom. With days that are challenging, rewarding, or a heavy mixture of both, motherhood may incite guilt or prompt you to question whether you’re doing anything right. The good news? If you’re doing your best, you’re absolutely doing it right.
Darlene and Julie share their own personal motherhood anecdotes and offer encouragement for those days when you...
2025-05-0617 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectWhy You Shouldn’t Doubt Your Impact as a Mother – 280Doubt your impact as a mother (or a mother figure)? Don’t—and we’ll tell you why.
In this special Mother’s Day week episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender dissect the complicated role of being a mom. With days that are challenging, rewarding, or a heavy mixture of both, motherhood may incite guilt or prompt you to question whether you’re doing anything right. The good news? If you’re doing your best, you’re absolutely doing it right.
Darlene and Julie share their own personal motherhood anecdotes and offer encouragement for those days when you...
2025-05-0617 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectDon’t Be a Fool: 5 Mistakes to Avoid – 275We have no tricks up our sleeves with this April Fool’s Day podcast—just wisdom to guide you along your grit and grace life. (But it might be foolish if you choose to skip this episode!)
The mark of a foolish person is one who carries on with life without learning to discern the different between fact and fiction, wisdom and folly. Even automobile magnate Henry Ford suggested as much: “The only real mistake we make is the one from which we learn nothing.”
Darlene Brock and Julie Bender take it one step further in this...
2025-04-0116 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDon’t Be a Fool: 5 Mistakes to Avoid – 275We have no tricks up our sleeves with this April Fool’s Day podcast—just wisdom to guide you along your grit and grace life. (But it might be foolish if you choose to skip this episode!)
The mark of a foolish person is one who carries on with life without learning to discern the different between fact and fiction, wisdom and folly. Even automobile magnate Henry Ford suggested as much: “The only real mistake we make is the one from which we learn nothing.”
Darlene Brock and Julie Bender take it one step further in this...
2025-04-0116 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You Want to Pray More – 273Want to pray more but not sure where to start? Prayer is a wonderful, powerful privilege that gives us instant connection to the God of the universe. But, if we’re honest, it can also feel a bit daunting.
Historical images of prayer, both literal and figurative, give off the impression that our communication with God should be deeply rooted in religious formality. You know the kind: kneeling with our heads bowed and hands delicately clasped together. Not only is that kind of prayer often difficult to achieve with modern time constraints, but it doesn’t fully capt...
2025-03-1821 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You Want to Pray More – 273Want to pray more but not sure where to start? Prayer is a wonderful, powerful privilege that gives us instant connection to the God of the universe. But, if we’re honest, it can also feel a bit daunting.
Historical images of prayer, both literal and figurative, give off the impression that our communication with God should be deeply rooted in religious formality. You know the kind: kneeling with our heads bowed and hands delicately clasped together. Not only is that kind of prayer often difficult to achieve with modern time constraints, but it doesn’t fully capt...
2025-03-1821 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You Have Trouble Speaking Up for Yourself – 272The one thing most people fear more than death? Public speaking.¹
There’s something about standing in front of another person (or multiple people) and sharing our thoughts, ideas, and feedback that makes us want to shrink until we evaporate. But sometimes, neglecting to speak up for yourself can have harmful repercussions.
Here to help you see past your fear this week is Darlene Brock and Julie Bender, who get to work excavating the possible reasons why speaking up is so terrifying. Maybe you’ve often been ignored, or never taken seriously, or you feel you’l...
2025-03-1119 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You Have Trouble Speaking Up for Yourself – 272The one thing most people fear more than death? Public speaking.¹
There’s something about standing in front of another person (or multiple people) and sharing our thoughts, ideas, and feedback that makes us want to shrink until we evaporate. But sometimes, neglecting to speak up for yourself can have harmful repercussions.
Here to help you see past your fear this week is Darlene Brock and Julie Bender, who get to work excavating the possible reasons why speaking up is so terrifying. Maybe you’ve often been ignored, or never taken seriously, or you feel you’l...
2025-03-1119 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf Hope Feels Beyond Your Reach – 271How is your future looking right now? If what you’re envisioning feels bleak, let us offer some encouragement.
Hope often flies right out the door as soon as life starts to unravel differently than we planned. Your kids drop out of college. Your spouse is distant. You haven’t been promoted at work in years. When reality doesn’t match the vision, what can we look forward to?
In this episode of Smart Living in Small Bites, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender unpack ways to find hope in the mundane. It may require work on you...
2025-03-0418 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf Hope Feels Beyond Your Reach – 271How is your future looking right now? If what you’re envisioning feels bleak, let us offer some encouragement.
Hope often flies right out the door as soon as life starts to unravel differently than we planned. Your kids drop out of college. Your spouse is distant. You haven’t been promoted at work in years. When reality doesn’t match the vision, what can we look forward to?
In this episode of Smart Living in Small Bites, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender unpack ways to find hope in the mundane. It may require work on you...
2025-03-0418 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf His Promise of Marriage Feels Empty – 270You’ve dreamt of wearing a billowy white dress and floating down the aisle to your prince charming since you were 5. Fast forward several years, and the man you love is doing everything but committing to making that dream a reality. Maybe you’ve been dating for years and are losing hope that a proposal will ever come, or you are engaged, but his promise of marriage feels empty and conversations around setting a date have stalled out. What do you do?
In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender talk...
2025-02-2521 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf His Promise of Marriage Feels Empty – 270You’ve dreamt of wearing a billowy white dress and floating down the aisle to your prince charming since you were 5. Fast forward several years, and the man you love is doing everything but committing to making that dream a reality. Maybe you’ve been dating for years and are losing hope that a proposal will ever come, or you are engaged, but his promise of marriage feels empty and conversations around setting a date have stalled out. What do you do?
In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender talk...
2025-02-2521 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You Don’t Know What to Do for Spring Break – 269Don’t know what to do for spring break? That means it’s time to decide how you really want to spend that time off: planning and prepping for a week-long getaway someplace far away, or catching your breath with a few relaxing days at home with your family?
If 2025 has been a busy year for you (or if saving money is top of mind), you’ll likely opt for the latter. But there’s no reason a staycation can’t be as inspired as a destination trip. In fact, there are ways to make it more wholesome...
2025-02-1816 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You Don’t Know What to Do for Spring Break – 269Don’t know what to do for spring break? That means it’s time to decide how you really want to spend that time off: planning and prepping for a week-long getaway someplace far away, or catching your breath with a few relaxing days at home with your family?
If 2025 has been a busy year for you (or if saving money is top of mind), you’ll likely opt for the latter. But there’s no reason a staycation can’t be as inspired as a destination trip. In fact, there are ways to make it more wholesome...
2025-02-1816 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You Want to Love Your People Well – 268When we think of Valentine’s Day, our thoughts often gravitate toward images of men purchasing giant teddy bears and bouquets of roses for the woman they love. As nice as that is, it’s a bit commercialized, and love deserves so much more intention—and recipients!
Darlene Brock and Julie Bender want to challenge you to think outside the box this year. Who else can you show love to aside from your significant other? Your friends? Jesus? Maybe even yourself? In this podcast episode, Darlene and Julie share small yet touching ways you can let those special...
2025-02-1115 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You Want to Love Your People Well – 268When we think of Valentine’s Day, our thoughts often gravitate toward images of men purchasing giant teddy bears and bouquets of roses for the woman they love. As nice as that is, it’s a bit commercialized, and love deserves so much more intention—and recipients!
Darlene Brock and Julie Bender want to challenge you to think outside the box this year. Who else can you show love to aside from your significant other? Your friends? Jesus? Maybe even yourself? In this podcast episode, Darlene and Julie share small yet touching ways you can let those special...
2025-02-1115 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf God Feels Distant – 267Has it been a while since you heard from God? Does it feel like ages since you’ve seen his goodness or felt the Holy Spirit stirring?
Distance from God is one of the most frustrating things we can experience as women of faith. We wonder where he’s gone and why he would ignore the children he loves. The uncomfortable truth? The onus may be on us—and if it’s not us, it’s God trying to help us grow in our faith. Yes, even in the ‘silence’!
In this podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Juli...
2025-02-0419 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf God Feels Distant – 267Has it been a while since you heard from God? Does it feel like ages since you’ve seen his goodness or felt the Holy Spirit stirring?
Distance from God is one of the most frustrating things we can experience as women of faith. We wonder where he’s gone and why he would ignore the children he loves. The uncomfortable truth? The onus may be on us—and if it’s not us, it’s God trying to help us grow in our faith. Yes, even in the ‘silence’!
In this podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Juli...
2025-02-0419 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You Want Your Goals to Reflect Your Priorities – 266Shoot straight with us for a minute: Did you set any goals at the start of this year?
If you answered ‘no,’ we’re right there with you. After all, weren’t we all just trying to get settled back in after the holidays?
Now that we are settled in, it’s the perfect time to revisit any changes you may have wanted to make this year. In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender share five priorities that would benefit from having structure backed by a goal: home, heal...
2025-01-2819 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You Want Your Goals to Reflect Your Priorities – 266Shoot straight with us for a minute: Did you set any goals at the start of this year?
If you answered ‘no,’ we’re right there with you. After all, weren’t we all just trying to get settled back in after the holidays?
Now that we are settled in, it’s the perfect time to revisit any changes you may have wanted to make this year. In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender share five priorities that would benefit from having structure backed by a goal: home, heal...
2025-01-2819 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You Wish You Had a Mentor – 265Do you wish you had someone who could guide you through life? An experienced person who willingly shares their wisdom and insight to help you navigate every crossroads you approach?
If so, we’re happy to say we know just what you’re looking for: a mentor. The Mr. Miyagi to your Karate Kid!
In this Smart Living with Grit and Grace podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender share the value in mentorship, how to actually find a mentor, and which areas of mentorship you might want to consider. Whether you’re looking for someon...
2025-01-2118 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf Your Desire for Control Is Controlling You – 264Life offers an endless rotation of surprises, so the only thing not surprising is our desire for order—often in the form of control. When we believe we can control what goes on around us, we can somewhat come to terms with the way our lives unfold. But controlling everything is impossible, and when we make that our aim, consciously or not, it can leave us on edge and erode our relationships.
In this podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss all the areas we might find hard to control—our tongues, our children, our appetite for...
2025-01-1421 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf Your Clutter Is Driving You Crazy – 263If you’ve been putting it off, consider this podcast episode as a sign to clean up your clutter!
As we get swept up in the busyness of life, we inadvertently let things accumulate. We outgrow our clothes or forget the items we’ve once loved and the gifts we’ve been given. Over time, we stash these items away to make room for new stuff we need or want. Out of sight, out of mind, right? Sadly, no. These items tend to pile up, consuming space in our homes and in the back of our minds.
...
2025-01-0719 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf Your Clutter Is Driving You Crazy – 263If you’ve been putting it off, consider this podcast episode as a sign to clean up your clutter!
As we get swept up in the busyness of life, we inadvertently let things accumulate. We outgrow our clothes or forget the items we’ve once loved and the gifts we’ve been given. Over time, we stash these items away to make room for new stuff we need or want. Out of sight, out of mind, right? Sadly, no. These items tend to pile up, consuming space in our homes and in the back of our minds.
...
2025-01-0719 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You’re Ready for a New You In 2025 – 262Forget setting goals and drafting New Year’s resolutions. We’re making 2025 about you—more specifically, your character.
Who do you want to be this year? Every season of life (new years included) allow us the opportunity to evaluate our priorities, how much we’ve grown and where we want to see ourselves in another 365 days. Is it in the same place you’re at now? Most likely, the answer is no.
In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss the importance of using this time to reassess o...
2024-12-3119 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You Think Joy Should Feel Better Than This! – 261In this season of “tidings of great joy,” what if joy doesn’t come easily to you?
As women of faith, there’s an unspoken expectation that we should live in a constant state of joy, that it should be the lens with which we view our lives and circumstances. Although the Bible states we aren’t of the world, we are still in it, which means our perception of joy is often colored by the world’s ideals—namely, success, status and money. But there’s more to real joy.
In this Smart Living podcast episode...
2024-12-2420 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You Think Joy Should Feel Better Than This! – 261In this season of “tidings of great joy,” what if joy doesn’t come easily to you?
As women of faith, there’s an unspoken expectation that we should live in a constant state of joy, that it should be the lens with which we view our lives and circumstances. Although the Bible states we aren’t of the world, we are still in it, which means our perception of joy is often colored by the world’s ideals—namely, success, status and money. But there’s more to real joy.
In this Smart Living podcast episode...
2024-12-2420 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You Want to Keep Your Friendships from Fizzling Out – 260Life is better with friends. There’s just something remarkably special about finding a person (or a few) out of billions in the world who can belly laugh with you over a meal or willingly be at your side in a time of grief. Friendships are mostly easy, but healthy ones still require some work!
In this Smart Living with Grit and Grace podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender dive into two important discussions on this topic: building strong friendships and navigating ones that are fizzling out. For the former, you’ll discover five ways to set...
2024-12-1718 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You Want to Keep Your Friendships from Fizzling Out – 260Life is better with friends. There’s just something remarkably special about finding a person (or a few) out of billions in the world who can belly laugh with you over a meal or willingly be at your side in a time of grief. Friendships are mostly easy, but healthy ones still require some work!
In this Smart Living with Grit and Grace podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender dive into two important discussions on this topic: building strong friendships and navigating ones that are fizzling out. For the former, you’ll discover five ways to set...
2024-12-1718 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You’re Tired of Resentment Living Rent-Free in Your Heart – 259The sibling that got away with everything. The coworker that scored your promotion. The “friend” who stopped including you in group conversations.
We’re all familiar with resentment, and the mutated ball of anger, hurt, disgust and annoyance it leaves in the pit of our stomachs. Whether someone outright betrayed you or you were inadvertently treated unfairly, resentment can slowly creep into your heart and rob you of joy and gratitude. It’s a human response, but a dangerous one if left to fester.
In today’s episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Darlene Br...
2024-12-1018 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf Doubt Appears: Is It a Warning or a Lie? – 258“You’ll never know unless you try” is sound advice to soothe our doubts. But doubt doesn’t always come with ulterior motives; sometimes, it’s merely a cautionary measure meant to protect us.
So how do you decipher the root of your doubt? Smart Living with Grit and Grace co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender answer that question with several actionable steps to help you work through your doubt and determine its purpose. Whether you’re struggling with self-doubt, doubting others, or even doubting God’s promises, rushing into the next season or next step to move past it c...
2024-12-0316 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You’re Looking for a Reason to Be Thankful Today – 257It’s usually early- to mid-fall when we hear others expressing a desire to fast forward through the season and jump right into the holidays. The year has been too long, too hard, too unforgiving. Wouldn’t it be better to skip right to the Thanksgiving and Christmas festivities and brush all our complications behind us (at least until the New Year)?
The fast forward button isn’t a thing—at least not yet—so you’re better off focusing on the good in each day. In fact, studies show that just a few minutes of practicing gratitude ea...
2024-11-2617 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You’re Looking for a Reason to Be Thankful Today – 257It’s usually early- to mid-fall when we hear others expressing a desire to fast forward through the season and jump right into the holidays. The year has been too long, too hard, too unforgiving. Wouldn’t it be better to skip right to the Thanksgiving and Christmas festivities and brush all our complications behind us (at least until the New Year)?
The fast forward button isn’t a thing—at least not yet—so you’re better off focusing on the good in each day. In fact, studies show that just a few minutes of practicing gratitude ea...
2024-11-2617 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You’re Ready to Leave Stress Behind – 256We don’t need research studies to tell us we’re stressed (although they do, and frequently—a 2021 Gallup poll found that 41% of adults worldwide experience a lot of stress). We feel it everywhere: demanding hours and clients at work; raising kids; the news; the ever-ending list of things to do—the list goes on. Are you ready to leave stress behind? We’ve got you covered!
In this podcast episode, co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender rip off the band-aid: We can’t get rid of stress entirely. But we can get a better handle on it by dealing...
2024-11-1917 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You’re Ready to Leave Stress Behind – 256We don’t need research studies to tell us we’re stressed (although they do, and frequently—a 2021 Gallup poll found that 41% of adults worldwide experience a lot of stress). We feel it everywhere: demanding hours and clients at work; raising kids; the news; the ever-ending list of things to do—the list goes on. Are you ready to leave stress behind? We’ve got you covered!
In this podcast episode, co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender rip off the band-aid: We can’t get rid of stress entirely. But we can get a better handle on it by dealing...
2024-11-1917 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You’re Questioning Your Purpose – 255Are you feeling a little aimless at the moment? Perhaps you’re in a season of life that has you questioning your purpose. If that sounds frighteningly familiar, don’t fret—even the seasons that feel purposeless have a purpose!
In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss how to find confidence when you’re transitioning into a new stage of life. Starting retirement, getting married, entering motherhood, searching for your next job can all leave you with a fuzzy vision of your purpose and the value you offer. To get y...
2024-11-1214 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf Your Nagging Makes You Tired Too – 254Do you have a tendency to repeat reminders to those closest to you? Perhaps you feel like you’re constantly asking your husband to get off the couch or urging your kids to clean their rooms. While your intentions are good, your delivery may be perceived as nagging.
In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender dive into the prickly topic of nagging. It’s something many of us would like to think we don’t do, but we often innocently fall into the habit. They share the tell-tale signs of nag...
2024-11-0516 minThe Grit and Grace ProjectIf You’re Flat-Out Tired of Waiting – 253Are you tired of waiting? Maybe you’re waiting on a future spouse to walk into your life, sitting in fast food lines that feel anything but, or pining for that dream job opportunity to fall into our laps. We’re all excitedly—and usually impatiently—waiting for something. Why do all the good things in life take so long?
One could argue those things wouldn’t be very good to begin with if they didn’t require at some patience, but we think there’s more to it. In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Dar...
2024-10-2915 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIf You’re Flat-Out Tired of Waiting – 253Are you tired of waiting? Maybe you’re waiting on a future spouse to walk into your life, sitting in fast food lines that feel anything but, or pining for that dream job opportunity to fall into our laps. We’re all excitedly—and usually impatiently—waiting for something. Why do all the good things in life take so long?
One could argue those things wouldn’t be very good to begin with if they didn’t require at some patience, but we think there’s more to it. In this episode of Smart Living with Grit and Grace, Dar...
2024-10-2915 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceReady to Conquer Life’s Challenges? Here’s How – 248When it comes to battling life’s challenges, the odds are rarely in our favor. We might feel as though we’re putting forth a ton of effort into making our circumstances better, only to find we didn’t make much headway after all.
It feels like a far cry from the life God designed for us to live, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss new ways to approach these challenges—and they’re all rooted in the mission of Grit and Grace Li...
2024-08-2729 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDon’t Let the World Dictate Your Self-Worth—It’s Up to You – 244How do you measure your self-worth? Is it determined by a respectable title at work or the approving nods ands compliments you receive on an outfit? Is it measured by how similar your home looks to your favorite influencer’s or your own personal follower count on Instagram?
This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender get together to offer a single resounding answer to all those questions: No. Your self-worth isn’t determined by any of these things.
And yet, the culture we live in upholds this pervasive idea that our worth is dependent on what...
2024-07-0233 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWhat Memorial Day Can Teach Us About Bravery - 241With Memorial Day upon us, co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender are honoring service members’ sacrifices by encouraging us all to step into every area of life the same way those military men and women did—with bravery.
But what does that look like to be brave at work? In our relationships? In motherhood? In this episode, Darlene and Julie identify instances that might give us pause and why it’s critical to push through them. Our character and integrity are often at stake in these situations, so we must be willing to get comfortable with being uncomf...
2024-05-2132 minSmart Living with Grit and Grace17 Summer Vacations Destinations the Whole Family Will Love - 240Are you itching for a vacation? Maybe the chilliness of winter has dragged on a hair too long and cabin fever has set in. If you’re nodding along saying, “YES,” then you’ll want to tune into episode 240 of This Grit and Grace Life podcast.
In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender share 17 summer vacation destinations around the United States that you may have never considered visiting before but will be glad to have experienced. They list recommendations for kids and adults alike that span every corner of the nation (Washington, Kentucky, Florida, Massachusetts, California, Texas, O...
2024-05-0722 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWhen Suicide Touches Your Life – 239We tackle many difficult subjects here at Grit and Grace Life, and often, they’re ones that have impacted us directly. In this episode, co-host Darlene Brock shares one of her own—losing her father to suicide.
As with any tragedy, Darlene found herself navigating unexpected emotions, working to reconcile the choice of suicide with the father she loved, asking questions that could be answered and accepting those that could not. In sharing her story now, she hopes to impart an important lesson to those dealing with this unbearable pain: God can bring healing. It won’t be over...
2024-04-2331 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIs Easter the Ultimate Call to Action? – 237Easter isn’t all about Peeps and Cadbury eggs, although co-host Julie Bender wouldn’t mind one or two! But is Easter the ultimate call to action?
In this heartfelt podcast episode, Julie and Darlene Brock discuss the significance of Easter, which they recognize as the pinnacle of their faith. But what does it mean to truly observe the holiday? Here, they unpack the meaning of Jesus Christ’s brutal death on the cross more than 2,000 years ago and why His suffering, while difficult to think on, is crucial to understanding the scope of His love for us and...
2024-03-2629 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceNever Settle Again—Advice for Any Relationship – 234Love is in the air! Maybe you’re in a loving relationship and feel giddy at the mere mention of love, or maybe you’re on the hunt for that special someone. No matter your relationship status, one thing is certain: Don’t settle for less!
In this podcast episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss how our expectations for love compare to our current relationships or what we want in a man. They explain why you should trust the process (and your gut!) and not rush anything, and how to celebrate and honor a healthy relationship. They a...
2024-02-1327 minSmart Living with Grit and Grace9 Principles to Build a Strong Marriage (Even Through the Storms) – 225Every couple that says “I do” desires—and anticipates—a marriage bursting at the seams with love, respect and friendship. But that only happens when each partner is willing to put in the work to get there.
In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender unpack 9 guidelines that every couple can use to build a strong marriage, whether they’ve been together for decades or just recently exchanged vows. Darlene and Julie share common marital misconceptions; the actions and behaviors that contributed to the longevity of their personal partnerships; how to have healt...
2023-10-2435 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceLife Behind the Mic with Julie and Dar – 223Wish you could go back in time and do something differently? We all do! Unfortunately, until time machines are manufactured, we can’t do anything about the past but reflect—and that’s often where we learn the most about who we are and where we want to go from here.
This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender reunite after several months apart to catch up, swap stories about life behind the mic, and share wisdom they’ve gleaned over the last few years. In an inspiring display of vulnerability, the duo look back at moments in their li...
2023-09-2632 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceBecome a Strong Woman While Making These 8 Pit Stops – 222Want to become a strong woman? It may come as a surprise that embarking on this path has more to do with leaning into your vulnerabilities and weaknesses—not the areas you excel in.
In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss 8 ways that you can begin your journey to becoming a strong woman, even as life’s challenges continue. Among these, you’ll learn the importance of talking less; why lowering the bar for yourself and others can actually be a good thing; and why choosing to become a strong woman is a decision that must b...
2023-09-1233 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceGet Ready to Break Free of Self-Doubt and Shame – 220Would you say you’re confident? Or would it be more accurate to say that you experience flickers of self-doubt now and again? If you said the latter, you’re not alone.
This week, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss the plague of self-doubt and shame we face as women, and how we get caught in the trap of comparison. They break down the most common areas we struggle with, including feeling too old; feeling too young; wondering if we’re good enough; feeling burdened by our pasts; and more, and share ways to identify your strengths (rather...
2023-08-1532 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceYour Back to School Strategy: Life Lessons and Daily Hacks – 219Just like that, summer is wrapping up and the next school year is around the corner. As a mom, maybe you’re breathing a sigh of relief, knowing you’ll gain a few hours back in the day where you won’t be pestered (we get it!). Or maybe you’re a bit apprehensive—you don’t know what’s in the curriculum this year, whether your child will get along with their teacher, or what they’ll hear from other students. No matter which feeling you identify with, this episode of This Grit and Grace Life will help you feel more at...
2023-08-0100 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIt’s Independence Day—Are You an Independent Woman? – 217Happy 4th of July! While we’re celebrating our nation’s independence and the individual freedoms over backyard cookouts and late-night fireworks, we also can’t help but wonder: What does it look like to be an independent woman?
In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender unpack the characteristics of an independent woman. They also discuss the importance of identifying your value outside of your job title or relationship status and, most importantly, how to channel confidence and find contentment in who you are.
The independent woman is one wh...
2023-07-0431 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceHow Do We Embrace Truth in a Radically Shifting Culture? – 215We’re witnessing radical changes in our culture. Topics ranging from gender identity and sexual boundaries to living “your truth” are making both headlines and appearances in our daily life. And many times, these issues run counter to what we believe as women of faith. So how do we adapt to a shifting culture and still pursue what we know to be true?
In this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss the ways that traditional values and the understanding of what’s right or wrong have changed over the years, touching...
2023-06-0633 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceIs Your Man a Keeper? Here’s How to Be Sure – 214Are you dating someone or looking to date? Regardless of where you might be in those two categories, it’s never too late to evaluate whether your potential life partner is a keeper.
In this podcast episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender outline what characteristics you need to look out for—both the red flags and the green flags—so you can quickly identify whether your man is a keeper, or someone who should see the door.
Quote of the episode:
“If we want to be a keeper...
2023-05-2329 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceChange Your Life with These Tips for Smart Living – 212We launched our sister project, Smart Living with Grit and Grace, a few months ago as a dedicated platform for women to exchange all the practical tips, advice and encouragement they’ve gleaned over the years.
They cover everything from both heartwarming and not-so-pretty motherhood moments; how to overcome loneliness and adapt to change; the top things they wish they knew in their twenties; Valentine’s Day gifts that women really want; their favorite quotes and one-liners that help them walk their own grit and grace life, and tons more.
In this episode, Darlene Brock and...
2023-04-2524 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceAfraid Your Relationship with Your Daughter Can’t Thrive? with Marlys Johnson Lawry – 211When you think of mother-daughter relationships, the many film renditions of “Freaky Friday” might come to mind. That relationship dynamic is not at all uncommon, but maybe it’s one you’re looking to pivot from, or avoid entirely as you raise your daughter.
On this episode of This Grit and Grace Life, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender welcome back Marlys Johnson Lawry, a writer for Grit and Grace Life and mom of an adult daughter. Marlys recalls the relationship she had with her mom, which was strong and dependable, but lacked some of the tender moments that Mar...
2023-04-1133 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceThe Beauty of Our Imperfect Lives with Jesus – 209What does it mean to follow Jesus or to say, “I am a Christian?”
With the recent Asbury Revival igniting new conversations around faith, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender decided to share the highs and lows of their individual faith journeys and getting to know Jesus. Darlene grew up in a strict church environment with a lot of rules, while Julie’s Methodist church emphasized the importance of relationships and feeling connected with others in the house of God.
Both took paths that brought them closer to Jesus but encountered moments of pride and self-righteousness in the...
2023-03-1435 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceOur Duty to Celebrate Racial Diversity as Women of Faith – 207“Are you approaching people the way God would want you to?”
It’s an important question posed by Darlene Brock and Julie Bender in this podcast episode. This week, they continue the conversation from the previous episode, where Grit and Grace Life writer Allison McCormick, a biracial woman married to a Black man, shared her perspective on race relations in the world today.
In an honest conversation from women of faith, Darlene and Julie discuss what we can do to fight racism, including taking on some tougher assignments: setting aside your defenses and learning to listen...
2023-02-1423 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWe Lied 🤦♀️But We’re Back! 💁♀️ – 204We lied!
In our last episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender signed off with a promise to return in September 2022 after Julie had her baby. Well, life happened, and This Grit and Grace Life’s return got pushed back to January. Better late than never, right? At least we’re starting off the new year with a bang!
In this episode, Darlene and Julie share some of the new changes happening behind the scenes at Grit and Grace Life and give a preview of this season’s upcoming podcast guests. We have a lot in store—...
2023-01-1014 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceCan We Just Admit We Judge Other Women? – 203Humanity has a natural tendency to judge others—and often, it seems, women are the worst offenders.
Why do we do it? How do we stop? These are the questions that Darlene and Julie unpack in this week’s podcast episode on judgment. They discuss the different areas of life in which women are prone to judge others, the reasons we do it, and why we should think twice before casting off any opinions or unwarranted labels.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of pointing fingers at the way others fall short, but it end...
2022-07-2628 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceHow to Be the Mother Yours Wasn’t – 196No mother-daughter relationship is perfect, but some are more difficult than others.
In this episode, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender sit down to share the distinct challenges they each had with their moms growing up. They open up about how the dysfunctional dynamic impacted their own motherhood duties and what they chose to do differently with their own children.
Through each of their stories, you’ll glean advice on what to do (and not do) in your relationship with your child, how you can begin the process of mending a fractured mother-daughter relationship, and get the...
2022-06-0731 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDo You Know Your Purpose? It May Surprise You! – 193Studies have proven that we’re more productive, live longer, and laugh more when we spend time with others. It only makes sense, then, that our relationships are significant to our existence—and that the most important purpose we can have is pouring into the lives of others.
On this week’s podcast, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender discuss how to do just that. They lay out a framework for how to show unconditional love to friends and family that have made both small and serious mistakes; they share stories of the women who invested in them and ch...
2022-05-1730 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceMotherhood: Struggle Bus or Joy Ride? Or Is it Both? – 187Society is quick to point out the challenges of motherhood. We see it in the “Mommy needs wine” shirts at Target and read about the seemingly endless struggles from other moms on social media. We don’t deny that motherhood comes with its share of hard times, but with the difficult seasons come the rewarding ones, too.
Darlene Brock and Julie Bender sit down this week to talk about the beauty of being a mom—from the privilege of shaping a little one’s views and raising them with the potential to positively impact the world, to enjoying l...
2022-04-0528 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceHow Can I Connect and Communicate with My Teenager Better? with Jerusha Clark – 182Are your teenagers driving you crazy? Are there days when you wonder who replaced your sweet, small child with a taller, sarcastic stranger?
Handling the attitudes and emotions—and, sometimes, the whereabouts—of teens can be a daunting task, and one that a lot of first-time parents of teens aren’t prepared for. While seeing your child blossom into a young adult can be insightful and rewarding, it can also be painful to witness the more difficult changes and crises that can often accompany this stage of life.
Bestselling author and speaker Jerusha Clark sits down wi...
2022-03-0137 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceHow Do I Build a Healthy Marriage? – 178For those who are single or dating, marriage might be seen as the answer, or the end-all be-all for wholeness and happiness. While marriage can certainly offer those things, it is so much more: it’s the beginning of a lifelong relationship that requires commitment and a whole lot of work.
Darlene Brock and Julie Bender get together to discuss the art of building a happy and healthy marriage through important principles like communication, open-mindedness, overcoming conflict and more. This episode isn’t just meant for those who’ve already exchanged vows—if marriage is something you see on t...
2022-02-0131 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDoes the Bible Need to Be Part of Our Lives? with Steve Wiggins – 173Did you know that more than 100 million copies of the Bible are sold every year? In fact, it’s the best selling book of all time, and most people are familiar with the popular Bible stories (does David and Goliath ring a bell?) even if they haven’t read it.
But how does the Bible actually fit into our everyday lives? Pastor Steve Wiggins joins Darlene Brock and Julie Bender on This Grit and Grace Life podcast to unpack the importance of reading the Bible. They’ll discuss how to find a like-minded community to study with...
2021-12-2136 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDo You Ever Feel Like You’re Not Enough? with Jodi Shultz 172Women have accomplished some pretty incredible things throughout history. It was women that patented windshield wipers, disposable diapers, non-reflective glass and a host of other products that benefit us to this day. And that’s just a glimpse into the life changing achievements we’ve made.
Yet, it’s not uncommon for us to feel as though we’re not enough. We question our value when we see other women who are prettier, doing it better, or seem to be winning at life.
Grit and Grace Life writer Jodi Shultz joins Darlene Brock and Julie Bender to...
2021-12-1428 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceCan I Find Happiness without Neglecting the Needs of Others? – 167Society tells us that we should pursue what makes us happy and cut ties with those who don’t agree with that or who get in our way. But does finding our happiness have to be selfish-or-self-destruct? What even defines happiness, anyway?
Darlene Brock and Julie Bender offer their insights on this important topic and talk about what happiness looks like in three areas of our lives: relationships, motherhood and work. Rather than focusing purely on how to find happiness—or, to adopt Darlene’s preferred term, “contentment”—they discuss how to work towards this idea in a way that b...
2021-11-0925 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceHow do I Connect with Friends when I Feel Alone? with Katie Cress – 165
Friendships are incredibly valuable to our lives and our well-being, but they take work. Just like marriage, different seasons of life will require our attention and complicate these relationships. We might find that the dynamic has changed, or the frequency of communication has dwindled.
In this episode, Grit and Grace Life writer and counselor Katie Cress joins Darlene Brock and Julie Bender to share the steps she took to connect with friends after a cross-country move left her feeling lonely and withdrawn. In order to maintain healthy friendships—or restore frayed ones—we need to put i...
2021-10-2625 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWe’re Back! – 163We’re back! After what co-host Julie Bender calls “the shortest summer ever,” her and Darlene Brock catch up on life and give a preview of the great things in store as they return with new episodes of This Grit and Grace Life podcast.
But the summer hiatus wasn’t all road-tripping and mountain-hiking. The team at Grit and Grace Life spruced up the website and revamped the podcast to better meet you where you are. We’ve realized that the world continues to spin out of control, but we know answers can be found.
The podcas...
2021-10-1214 minSmart Living with Grit and Grace7 Things a Strong Woman Does (It’s OK To Start Now) – 148
We women possess innate qualities that make us strong. But did you know that we can do things to grow the power we have within us? Co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Bender share seven ways to do so, whether you’re starting now or simply need a reminder.
Here are just a few they discuss that we all need to master:
respect yourself (and others)
go with the flow
trust your gut
Viewing in an app? Full show notes here!
Quote of the episode:
“You see I am...
2020-11-0330 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWhy Your Life and Community Matters Right Now – 142
2020—the year none of us expected. The fear, isolation, and division created have left us feeling lost and even hopeless. But we don’t have to stay here. At Grit and Grace Life, we believe in community, we believe in us. In this episode, Julie and Darlene step back to revisit the things that will sustain us—rebuilding a community of women who value one another and believe in unity, removing fear, and replacing it with hope. If we could look you in the eyes (over your mask), we would encourage you to remove yourself from the news o...
2020-08-1823 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceAn Intimate Look at Your Sex Life With Dr. Miller OB-GYN – 135
It’s time to get “down and dirty,” or, in other words, have an honest discussion about sex! We’ve brought Dr. Holly Miller (board-certified OB-GYN) back to the show for a real conversation about sexual and reproductive health. Darlene and Julie ask questions you might secretly be wondering and are perhaps even afraid to ask your GYN.
So, ladies, we’re “going there,” with questions like:
-How do you know if you’re ready to have sex with your partner?
-How do you talk about his (or your) STI?
-Should intercourse have pain? What...
2020-05-2636 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceReal Advice Any Grit and Grace Mom Can Use Now – 134
Motherhood has all the feels: pride, joy, fear, accomplishment, worry, and overwhelm (often with a hefty side of mom-guilt). Juggling these terrifying and satisfying waters can be challenging, especially if you want to master motherhood with both Grit and Grace. Real-life moms, Darlene Brock (who’s raised two daughters, now upgraded to Nonie—her fancy title for grandmother) and Julie Graham (widowed boymom in the trenches of single motherhood like many of you) share practical tips to do this. Strong Mama, don’t worry that you’re messing up or that you’re alone. In this episode, Julie and...
2020-05-1932 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDarlene and Julie Chat Balancing Adulting, Barbells and Booties – 109Your co-hosts bust out their booties (we mean boots, because yay, fall temps!) for an honest chat about their grit and grace lives. Is adulting overrated? What are the benefits of multi-tasking, or should we buy into the new trend of mono-tasking (yes, that’s a thing)? Darlene takes a little time to get an update on how Julie finished her recent training and what she learned from her journey through her first fitness competition. You may be surprised at what this strong woman gleaned about herself as she took on this challenge, even one as ridiculous as strutting he...
2019-11-1231 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDarlene and Julie Chat Fall, Facial Hair and Friendship – 104Wonder what happens when your co-hosts leave the outline behind? This week you’re going to find out. From fall festivities to female facial hair, friendship to frustrations in motherhood, they keep it real. This unscripted convo between these two friends, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender (formerly Julie Graham), sounds a lot like ones they have in the living room over a cup of coffee. Taking a little break from tackling hot topics, sharing deep thoughts, and discussing challenging issues, they instead chat about what they’re thinking—talking about their own grit and grace lives!
We welcom...
2019-10-0828 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWant to Be a Strong Woman? Set Healthy Boundaries – 103
Healthy relationships require healthy boundaries. But do you struggle to know what they are? Whether we’re talking with a friend, significant other, family member, or stranger, boundaries matter! And sadly, healthy ones are not taught; most often, we learn that we need them when the relationships we find ourselves in begin to hurt us. Having pondered this, co-hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Graham discuss why boundaries are important. They focus on four types you need and how to begin implementing them in your life. Setting these boundaries will require grit and grace, but take heart; you can...
2019-10-0128 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceRest Easy Moms, Here Are the Things That Matter – 102Moms, are you stressed? Do you find yourself worrying about almost everything? The right food, the growth chart percentile, the best school, grades, their behavior, screen time, and that discipline subject—terrifying. What is even more stressful is worrying about what other moms think about our decisions. It’s exhausting. It’s time to go back to the basics and remember what matters! Cross-generational friends and moms, Darlene Brock (mom of two grown daughters and Nonie to two grandkids) and Julie Graham (single, widowed boymom), discuss the things that do matter, what we should spend our energy on, and what w...
2019-09-2429 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWhat Today’s Dating Scene is Really Like – 094Are you dating or do you have a friend who is? If you haven’t been in the dating world for the last decade, the cultural shift that has hit will leave your head spinning. For those who are currently single, we realize you’re going to face challenges your married friends may not understand. In this episode, co-hosts Darlene Brock (happily married for several decades) and Julie Graham (widowed after 11 years of marriage to her college sweetheart….and currently dating) talk through some of the stereotypes in the dating scene. First, they discuss how to know if you’re ready...
2019-06-2533 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWhat Makes a Great Dad? How Can You Encourage It? – 093Many men can be a father, but a dad, that’s so much more. He holds a special place in a child’s life—a different one than mom, and that’s a good thing. When daddy does things his way, our kids are better for it. But, what is it that makes a good dad? What qualities does he offer our children that we may not? How can we encourage his relationship with our kids? With Father’s Day approaching, Darlene Brock and Julie Graham take this episode to discuss those things and celebrate the unique position and qualities...
2019-06-1126 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceThis Is How to Handle a Hard Relationship With Your Mom – 089Every mother-daughter relationship is unique. While some inspire the prose written in a Hallmark card, others can be much more challenging. Knowing this (and having their own complicated mother-daughter stories), Darlene Brock and Julie Graham devote this episode to the woman who might not have that picture-perfect relationship. Daughters, if your mom can be harsh, distant, controlling, neglectful, or absent, this episode is for you. In this real-life discussion, you’ll learn how to set healthy boundaries and how to take steps toward healing your relationship (you’ll also hear real examples from Darlene and Julie’s lives). Maybe your r...
2019-05-0733 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceHow to Raise Responsible Kids: Tips for Every Age – 087Isn’t every parent’s goal to raise happy, well-adjusted, and, yes, responsible kids who can find success in life? Even comedienne, Phyllis Diller said, “I want my children to have all the things I couldn’t afford…then I want to move in with them.” We may not want to live with them, but we do want them to be able to build a life for themselves. In this episode, single boy mom Julie Graham asks all these questions and more of Darlene Brock, who literally wrote the book on raising great girls. They discuss some of the practical ap...
2019-04-2329 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceKeep Your Love Alive: Avoid These Relationship Mistakes – 084Most women are looking for a healthy, secure, and romantic relationship with the man in their life. Sometimes we do things that, instead of making it better, are killing it. Now, we know that men can be relationship killers too, but we will leave that for another discussion. So, we’re asking you, are you making these common mistakes that undermine the foundation of the relationship you hold so dear? We all do them, but if we don’t have a bestie who tells it to us straight, sometimes we don’t even know that we’re doing anything wrong. I...
2019-04-0233 minSmart Living with Grit and Grace5 Philosophies You Need for Your Grit and Grace Life – 083What makes a woman able to live This Grit and Grace Life? The desire to be strong and secure in her worth. A woman who loves people well and is confident in her talents, demonstrating tremendous character. That’s true, too. You see it in how a woman carries herself in her relationships, whether at home, at work, or in her community. With this goal in mind, our fearless leader, (Co-Founder of The Grit and Grace Project) Darlene Brock, took an inventory of the life philosophies that she’s followed that she believes work. Ones that will help every woma...
2019-03-2629 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceSimple (and Funny) Advice for Your Grit and Grace Life – 074One of the reasons we love the internet and especially social media is the wealth of inspiration and entertainment that you will find there. The memes and quotes that we post and often share are worthy of repeating. We went to our tribe of strong women and asked them to give us ones that they like, ones that make you laugh and even make you think! Join co-hosts Darlene Brock, and Julie Graham as they bring these to you. You’ll relate, laugh, and also ponder the truth behind these sayings that are so accurate and yet so funny. Yo...
2019-01-2224 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceStop the Holiday Hustle: Celebrate More, Stress Less – 064
The holiday season is upon us, and with it: the stress. We find ourselves with an overloaded schedule, and often in the midst of the fun is family drama. Maybe this is the year you’ll get ahead of the hustle of the season and find a way to slow down. Wouldn’t we all like to experience real celebration and enjoy it, not merely survive “the most wonderful time of the year?” Darlene and Julie discuss what they love about each holiday as well as ways to get the most out of the gatherings and how to make...
2018-10-3029 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceThese Strategies Will Help You Raise Great Kids – 063
It doesn’t take a perfect mom to raise great kids. It takes intentionality, grit, and grace! Author and Co-Host, Darlene Brock, shares her hindsight and offers practical tips from her new book, Raising Great Girls: Help for Moms to Raise Confident, Capable Daughters (perfection not required), that will apply to moms of both genders. As a single boy mom, Julie asks honest questions and explores how Darlene navigated the tricky parenting situations in which most parents find themselves.
Darlene explains how being your child’s coach, creative counselor, and professor of gender studies (three of t...
2018-10-2333 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceWomen and Judgment: Why We Do It and How to Stop – 057Have you ever been unfairly judged? Were some things said or believed about you that wasn’t true? Or perhaps you’re hesitant to admit that you could be the one doing the judging. The struggle is real, and every one of us has experienced both sides of this coin, probably not very long ago. Whether we like it or not, women are quick to judge, and we have a hard time not letting the opinions of others determine our self-worth.
On this episode, Darlene and Julie discuss the common areas we tend to over-analyze others: appearance, work and...
2018-09-1131 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceHow Can You Raise Great Girls? Darlene’s Daughters Tell All – 054Are you trying to raise confident, capable daughters but feeling unsure about how you’re doing? Every mother feels that way! Darlene Brock, in her new book, Raising Great Girls, takes a look back at the years she raised her two daughters. By breaking down the roles, this mom took on doable jobs, and she shares what she learned. Since today is the official book release date, we wanted to celebrate by inviting her daughters to join us for this fun episode. You will hear firsthand from Darlene and her daughters the successes and failures that led to them bec...
2018-08-2149 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDo You Have to Be a Feminist to Be a Strong Woman? – 041Each week we celebrate what we believe—women are strong, it’s demonstrated in who we are and all we do. But it seems in the current culture a woman’s strength is often considered synonymous with feminism. In the midst of the potentially confusing platforms we just have to explore this topic. What is a feminist today, anyway? Is there value in the movement, what have we learned from it and where do we go next? Has feminism lost the respect for and appreciation of the strength of a man? This week we are discussing what it means to be...
2018-05-2234 minSmart Living with Grit and Grace5 Things a Woman Must Do for Success in Life – 040Do you have a purpose in your life? Or avoid the subject because you feel that you don’t? Women who are living this #gritandgracelife can accomplish so many things, but we are often set back by fear or worry, or we compare ourselves to others. In this episode, Julie explores Darlene’s life journey. Sharing five life tips that she followed to get where she is now: having several successful careers, a rich multi-decade marriage, as well as launching two grown daughters into fulfilling lives of their own. If you’re at a crossroads, struggling with your next step...
2018-05-1532 minSmart Living with Grit and Grace6 Qualities that Make a Female Strong with Leadership Expert Jenni Catron – 030How can a woman lead in every area of her life? Do you feel like you make an impact? Is leadership only for the workplace? We know that all women have influence in every area of their life, so we brought in Author, Leadership Expert, and CEO Jenni Catron. From the day she got her first job (her boss was none other than your co-host Darlene Brock), Jenni has proven that she has the formula for leadership… Darlene and Julie interview her about the six characteristics you may not even know you have that make you strong. A must-listen epis...
2018-03-0633 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceDon’t Start the New Year Stuck in a Rut – 021Yes, it’s 2018! You may have ended the year behind us really excited for this fresh start or perhaps you find yourself struggling, feeling stuck in an impossible rut. Every woman’s life is filled with so many transitions and challenges, that oftentimes we believe that rut has no end, there is no hope of getting out any time soon (ice cream in the closet, anyone?). In this episode Darlene and Julie talk about common things that can cause our setbacks: like job loss, toddler development, divorce or poor self-worth. Better yet, they offer fresh ways to approach these chal...
2018-01-0224 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceClosing the Year With Grit and Grace – 020As we find ourselves at the close of 2017, we realize that for some this has been a great year, for others, it was filled with challenges. In this heartfelt episode, show hosts Darlene Brock and Julie Graham reminisce on the highs and lows of their personal lives this year, including the unexpected death of Julie’s husband. As they discuss their favorite content from dozens of The Grit and Grace Project writers from all over the world, they hope you too, will find encouragement. That you along with them will be able to close the year with grit and gr...
2017-12-2628 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceMama Drama Every Woman Has and How to Overcome – 008
Two words we’re pretty sure you can relate to: Mama.Drama. Can we just be honest? (a nod to last week’s episode here)…every woman has a little drama with her mama, (or her stepmom or her mother-in-law). Whether you’re always on each others nerves, best friends or land somewhere in between, there will be conflict with these special women in our lives! Darlene and Julie get real about how this incredibly unique relationship has shaped them into the grit and grace women they’ve become. Revealing some of their own mama drama, they offer insights they’ve gain...
2017-10-0333 minSmart Living with Grit and GraceAbout Us – 000We are so excited to finally be launching This Grit and Grace Life Podcast! The “000 About Us” episode is a chance for you to meet our hosts, Darlene Brock and Julie Graham and learn a little bit about what you can expect from our weekly show. The full podcast starts Tuesday, August 29 and a new episode will be ready for download each Tuesday. Better yet Subscribe and you’ll get them automatically!
About This Grit and Grace Life Podcast
Are you a strong woman or want to be? This Grit and Grace Life hosts, Darlene Brock a...
2017-08-2300 min