Shows
GumptionGumption En Guarde!We're back and ready to attack! This week's mini episode chronicles your host Lil (@lilyswits) as she tries a new activity: fencing! Longtime fans will remember Lily's ongoing challenge to try new forms of fitness and fun in her 20s. Starting something new as an adult is never easy, but tune in to hear how the first time went, some things that surprised her, and some learned life lessons.Loving this episode? Let us know by commenting on Spotify or Instagram so we can continue the series!Stay tuned for the fencing studio reveal! Out...
2025-06-1120 minGumptionMini-sode: All Things Fall!Trying new things! Trying new things! Gumption's first mini-sode riffs on your host Lil's favorite season.Last year, we watched ALL the spooky movies, so you don't have to (it was fun though, so you should). Even better, we ranked them. Find the full list of movie recommendations here.Plus a lil background on why fall feels like fall, from a spiritual perspective, and how that might impact your creativity and motivation.
2024-10-1415 minGumptionYA GIRL'S ENGAGED!!!!!!! 💍What can we say, MURPHY'S GOT GUMPTION. Tune in to hear our engagement story
2024-07-3039 minGumption75 Hard: IS IT WORTH IT?In Gumption's 35th episode, your host Lil (@lilyswits) shares her candid thoughts on the workout trend, 75 Hard. 7 weeks into the challenge, she dishes the tea from her own experience. What aspects of the challenge are worth your time? Which parts are doing too much? What are some modifications you can try, if you don't want to commit to the intensity of the full challenge? Listen and find out some of Lil's recs to get the most out of 75 hard! We are using this Google Sheets 75 Hard Template...
2024-06-2242 minGumptionGracefully Saying No: Boundaries in Business & Authenticity on SocialThis week, Avery Wagner joins Gumption to talk all things boundaries in business. As founder and owner of Wagner Perspective, a boutique social media agency that helps small businesses by elevating their branding, she understands that social media can be overwhelming. We chat about ways that platforms have amplified positivity in our lives, and the importance of knowing how to say "no" as a small business owner.Follow @ItsAveryWagner and @WagnerPerspective for more fun (because you're already following @GumptionPod duhhhh!)
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GumptionThe Tortured Podcasters Department: Taylor Swift Album ReviewYou know how to ball, I know Aristotle. We ALL know that Taylor Swift has gumption. Swiftie or not, join us for some girl talk and unfiltered thoughts about the album (by two people who also love The 1975, and are not willing to give that up yet okay). This week, we welcome back three-time Gumptioneer, Morgan Bendel to debrief on Swift's new album, The Tortured Poets Department. Like what you heard? Revisit one of our earliest (and funniest) episodes, Gumption on the Go with Morgan. And if you've yet to attend...
2024-04-2949 minGumptionHow to Thrift Like a ProTake it from an expert: those who thrift, win. After compiling notes from 10 years of thrifting experience, your host Lil shares some of her favorite reasons to pickup thrifting as a hobby, to save your wallet, preserve your originality, and help the environment. Stay for the tips on how to best maximize your thrift trips to suit your style. This installment focuses mostly on garments and small items. If you want a part two for home decor and furniture, LET US KNOW! Some resources mentioned in the episode include one of the best thrift content...
2024-04-0833 minGumptionIt IS Rocket Science: Cool Astrophysics Facts & the Upcoming Solar EclipseTo prepare for the exciting astronomy event coming up in 2 weeks, Lil welcomed three of her astrophysics pals to the show from their time studying ~literal~ rocket science in college. Grace Chiodo, Conor Larsen, and Kevin Moposita share insight about what to expect for the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse on April 8th, 2024, as well as their favorite mind-blowing space facts & memories. Find out whether your home city is in the path of totality with this interactive eclipse map, and learn more about the eclipse here. Don't forget the glasses! Check out Conor's rock band, Wickham...
2024-03-1848 minGumptionDitching the Comfort Zone by Seeking Out Perspective, Places, and PurposeNow leaving: your comfort zone. Thanks for visiting! Your host Lil leads you through some tangible ways to put yourself out there. She explores how to do this through mind, body, and heart, and ways to adapt the approach to your own lifestyle. If you're interested in learning more about third places like we are, check out this article or Ray Oldenburg's book, The Great Good Place. (Added to out Goodreads Gumption rec list, of course). 🤗
2024-03-0427 minGumptionPedaling Passion: Building Community Beyond FitnessHere at Gumption, we're all about celebrating women in business. This week, we welcome Melina Millerleile to the show, owner and founder of indoor cycling studio Cycle Fly in Lakewood, OH. The studio was voted Cleveland's top indoor cycling studio, best Specialty Exercise Class by Cleveland Scene ‘22 & ‘23, AND Best Independent Gym (West) by Cleveland Magazine ‘23. Melina shares an inside look into her fitness community, and how it all started. She explores the importance building a space where everyone feels like they can fly. 🚲 As a total novice cycler, Lil asks Melina about all the fun behind-th...
2024-02-1927 minGumptionTable for Two: Easy Date Ideas and Love LanguagesIn Gumption's jam-packed Valentine's Day episode, Lil's beloved BF Murph makes his return to the show. One year after moving in together, we chat about the experience of cohabitating with your significant other. (Refer back to Long Distance to Living Together: 12 Secrets to a Happy Relationship for Murph's podcast debut in our early days of moving in). We dive in to date recommendations from the audience, sharing ways to shake up tried and true date activities or ways to step out of the box. Whether you're going out or staying in, freshly dating or together...
2024-02-0543 minGumptionRediscovering Your Individuality & Tips for Aspiring PodcastersThis week, Gumption welcomes the wonderful Maura McKeown (@lilmauradat), host of the podcast Maur or Less to the show! We delve into the mentality behind competitive team sports during our transformative childhood and adolescent years, and how these helped or hindered our growth as individuals. Unpacking the lessons we learned from hockey and dance, we reflect on how these have shaped us in our adult lives, and what aspects we bring into our current relationships and careers (as well as which ones we're leaving behind). As the first fellow podcaster to be on...
2024-01-2253 minGumptionOut with Comparison, in with Spontaneity (and Monocles)Welcome to 2024! We're kicking off the year with a fun interview that's reminiscent of the show's early days. Guests Isabel Grenci & Savannah Kargel bring the laughs and vulnerability we've all been waiting for, in the first part of this two-episode series.In the spirit of New Year's resolutions, we reflect on how falling in love with new hobbies (or old ones, reimagined) will be good for the soul in 2024, as well as anything that makes us confident and brings us joy. We're ditching comparison as a form of insecurity, and instead opting for unabashed fun & confidence (like...
2024-01-081h 00GumptionDealing with Creative Burnout & Making Your Life MagicalIn every field, burnout is our antagonist.That's why this week, Gumption hosts the multi-faceted Ohio-based creator and author who's sure to inspire, Kathryn Houghton. Houghton has built a community of people who appreciate the fantastical, both on the page and in real life. Her Instagram, @fieldsofliterature, is a beautiful collection of books, outfits, vintage and antique treasures, art, adventures, and VIBES. (Seriously, if you're a fan of the dark academia aesthetic, her page might as well be Heaven.) We chat about her journey into content creation and seeking out magical experiences everyday. And very timely to...
2023-12-1135 minGumptionHave To Vs. Get To Mentality & Major Life UpdatesHow can daily gratitude and appreciation change your life for the better? This week, your host has come down with a cold, but have no fear! The ever ambitious and philosophical Lil is still timely enough to deliver your favorite podcast, bright and early with Monday's coffee. As requested by the Gumption listeners, we dive into the details of the obligatory "have to" mindset, versus the gratifying "get to" mindset, and all the nuances in between. Featuring a surprise cameo from Murph (attic version), and a bombshell life update we're sure to expand more on...
2023-11-2742 minGumptionHow To Ditch Financial Stress and Support Your Gumptious LifestyleMoney, money, money... must be funny... in a rich man's world! (As an ABBA lover, you know I had to do it to 'em.) Whether you're a total finance bro or, like your host, are still learning how to build healthy relationships with your finances, we can ALL learn something from this week's guest. In a judgement-free, open-minded convo about all things personal finance, Gumption welcomes Taylor Sminchak of Blossom Financial Coaching. Taylor's education and counseling background lends itself to a more wholistic approach, taking into account mental health and the WHYs behind our money-driven stress. She...
2023-11-1342 minGumptionVillains, Horror, and Halloween TraditionsOh no, don't kill me Mr. Ghostface!In Gumption's Halloween Special, Lil's cousin Erik Dombroski joins for a moment to reminisce our most memorable Halloween traditions, straight from a family obsessed with spooks of every sort. We psychoanalyze iconic characters in a villain showdown, ranking our favorite anti-heroes by their evil-est traits. Also featuring a moment of appreciation for trick or treating and group costumes, and a Murph cameo.For fans of horror, Erik and Lil (two certified movie buffs) dive deep into their own fears to provide a comprehensive list of the BEST movies...
2023-10-301h 04GumptionWhat's New, Season Two?Welcome back to your favorite part of the week, GUMPTION! In our season two premiere, your bubbly host Lil shares some life updates fit for spooky season. Between upstairs neighbor horror stories, The Franken-couch, Halloween movie recommendations, to a preview of next week's frights and delights, we've got it all. Also in this episode is a Vogue-Magazine-style 33 question interview of Lil herself. For you newbies to get to know your gumption guru, and for our OGs to remember why they can't stop listening. 😉 (No but for real, it's hard sharing pieces of yourself into the internet ether, but Lil is wil...
2023-10-1634 minGumptionWE'RE BACK!Are you ready to be the main character of your own life? Gumption is coming in HOT for its sophomore season! Get ready for new guests, fun seasonal segments, inspiring interviews, and sooooo much more with your favorite host, Lil. Every other Monday, starting October 16th, 2023. Keep up with our adventures on Instagram, @GumptionPod 🎉
2023-09-2202 minGumptionSeeking & Building Safe Spaces for Your DreamsGumptioneers, it's finally here. The LAST EPISODE of our very first season, released on none other than our FIRST BIRTHDAY! Words cannot express how proud I am to have built this joyful, inspiring, adventurous podcast and welcomed such talented & thoughtful guests. This episode is nothing short of magical, as Alaina Booth and I discuss the creative path, and its contribution to a life well-lived. We focus on storytelling through art and social media, and freelancing as a route to do so. At the root of it all is encouragement- both toward yourself and others. If...
2023-08-1453 minGumptionThe Ultimate Taylor Swift Eras Tour Survival GuideCALLING ALL SWIFTIES! Are you attending Taylor Swift's Eras Tour in California, South America, or Europe, and want to know what to expect? Did you already experience the spectacle, and want to reminisce on how your life has been forever changed? Are you new to Taylor Nation, and need a crash course on the past eras? Trying to figure out How to Get the Girl who loves T-Swizzle (we're talking to you, London Boys)? You're in the right place.In a full circle moment, Gumption's second-last season one episode brings back Morgan Bendel of episode 5, Rival Cities...
2023-07-2457 minGumptionNaked and Afraid: An Utterly Unhinged Example of GumptionHave you ever been absolutely horrified and fascinated by something at the same time?! Per Lil's recent obsession with Discovery's Survivor-like spinoff, Naked and Afraid, we just had to relate it to gumption. In this reality TV show, people willingly sign up to survive naked in extreme environments with ZILCH resources for 21 days (or more). If that isn't gumption, we don't know what is! In brief and bitey bonus episode, Lil reflects on the absurdity and pure entertainment value of the show, as well as the lessons we can take from it (from the comfort of our...
2023-07-1820 minGumptionHow to Achieve Your Own Mamma Mia SummerNo matter where you are in the world, you can achieve your very own Mamma 👏 Mia 👏 Summer 👏. Take it from your host, Lil, a Midwestern girlie who has been mastering this art since 2018. Gumption's 18th dives into the sparkling world of all-things Mamma Mia! and its stunning prequel, Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! From the cultural impact of the films to the tangible takeaways, you'll leave this listen feeling inspired to go chase your dreams. Featuring a guide to your summer style, lifelong friendships, romantic rendezvous, and MORE! Check out this episode's sister Spotify playlist...
2023-06-2447 minGumptionBring Back the Bacon Phase & The Importance of Cinematic ExperiencesCollege memories hold a special place in our hearts, as they often unfold like vivid scenes from a captivating movie. From late-night study sessions and spontaneous road trips to lifelong friendships and unforgettable parties, our college years are filled with moments that feel straight out of a cinematic masterpiece. This week's guest, Sean Volpi, is a recent graduate of Villanova University and host of WXVU's SeanTalk, and a dear friend made from a two day trip to Green Bank West Virginia with Villanova Astronomical Society (VAS).Welcome, gumptioneers, to this compelling episode where we delve into cherished memories of Green...
2023-06-011h 04GumptionBeing Multi-Passionate & Thinking Like a FounderGumptioneers, you do NOT want to miss this! In our sixteenth episode, host Lil is joined by Lorena Opris and Ashley Rector. Both founders of cutting-edge, thoughtful businesses (The Branded Babe Club; Plum Hill Creative Studio & Quimby Digital, respectively), these ladies shared their secrets to building community among creatives. We recorded the episode inside the creative studio, which serves the greater Cleveland community as a STUNNING gathering space for events, workshops, meetings, content creation and more. Everything you'll need to connect with them, linked here and in our Insta bio 💕 CONTENT CREATORS & BUSINESSES: THIS ONE'S FOR YOU! Up...
2023-05-2236 minGumption"Look What You've Done in a Year": Post Grad Life Is Not as Scary as You Think!In this charming little solo diddy, Lil reflects on what she has learned in the year following her college graduation. From changing friendship expectations to maximizing your daily schedule, this episode takes a wholistic approach toward navigating all the uncertainties of post-grad life. She also shares concrete examples of what has helped her thrive. Featuring a guest appearance of Kaitlin Krue, a Gumption alum from episode 2. Here's to trying new things! Mentioned in this episode: Cycle Fly studio Tarot Readings with Ana at Oktober's Margarita making class at Western Reserve Distillers
2023-05-1530 minGumptionMonetizing Your Social Media: Investing in Your Best Self through Affiliate MarketingHAPPY MAY, Gumptioneers! If you are looking to ditch the doom scroll and make your socials platforms work for you, you've come to the right place honey! In this badass business episode, entrepreneur and influencer Zoe Conte shares her journey into affiliate marketing, and how it led her to financial freedom and an empowered community of high-achieving ladies. We chat confidence, algorithm tricks, vulnerability and the value of genuine connection. Check out the Fempire Collective to be inspired like I was! As heard in the ep, check out this time-saving trend delivery service from Quimby Digital, created...
2023-05-0147 minGumptionLet There Be Poplight: Transforming Ideas into RealityGumptioneers, it ALWAYS pays to shoot your shot... because it might just lead to really cool people telling you their story. This week, Gumption welcomes Caroline Matthes and Rose Fierman, the wife & wife team behind Poplight! Poplight is the world's first gorgeous, modern wall light that installs on just about any wall in seconds. They're making wall lighting accessible to everyone, (and going viral on TikTok). Tune in to hear how this idea came to be, the steps they took to bring it to existence, and sage business advice from two entrepreneurs who lead with the heart. You can follow...
2023-04-0439 minGumptionLong Distance to Living Together: 12 Secrets to a Happy RelationshipThis long-form episode sets many Gumption milestones: Murphy joins the pod (it's about time!), we share the best audience participation thus far, andddd it's the first ep recorded in OUR NEW PLACE!! Enjoy our silly banter and real talk about long distance, hard decisions, and love- including 12 tips for a lasting, happy relationship. Check out the playlist gumption in love on Spotify, full of love song recommendations from our lovely listeners.
2023-03-0759 minGumptionCEO Energy, Setting Goals, and Building Your BrandThis week on Gumption, we are channeling our inner C-E-O! Jada Taylor, designer and founder of Mixd Fashion, shares her journey from fashion student, to film designer, to creating her own brand. Tap in for tips on defining your business values and being persistent in achieving your dreams. Shop the looks on mixdfashion.com, and follow @mixdfashion on the gram ☻
2023-02-0632 minGumptionPracticing Vulnerability and Turning Experience into ArtGumption hits DOUBLE DIGITS this week with our a-Maeve-zing guest, Maeve Schumacher! We talk about the creative process, and how challenging yet rewarding it is to draw inspo from your emotional experiences. @Writer.Maeve 's first book, a poetry collection entitled My Kind of Mind, will be available for purchase on Amazon and select small businesses in March (featuring your host's adorable illustration artwork!)
2023-01-1642 minGumptionBONUS: It's 2023 and We're Done GatekeepingIn this impromptu solo minisode, Lil shares her thoughts on what we should leave in 2022. Enjoy your host's humor, recommendations, and pet peeves as we enter this new year. Don't forget to comment your ins-and-outs on @gumptionpod's latest Instagram post, and check our first ever playlist of gumption-filled songs, linked here
2023-01-0514 minGumptionFriendship Breakups Deep DiveIn Gumption's ninth, self-proclaimed Blonde Triangle of Friendship reunites to get vulnerable. Em, Liz, and Lil share hilarious adventures before diving deeper into their collective friendship breakup (and ultimately, reunion). Music festivals heal all wounds, man.
2022-12-2453 minGumptionThe Girl(s) with the Scorpion TattooGumption is BACK after a killer Scorpio Season, with none other than Stephanie Dejak (@stephdejak). Steph shares her insights on astrology, finding your writing niche, and letting love in when you least expect it. Featuring a never-heard-before reading of her lyric essay, "On Astrological Compatibility". Check out her amazing work on scadconnector.com 🖤 All our fave recs linked in @gumptionpod bio on Instagram!
2022-11-2742 minGumptionThe Gumption to Get Over ItIn Gumption's lucky number 7, Lil's cousin Bella Lasecki pole vaults into our hearts. In this lighthearted episode, the future Olympic pole vaulter shares her wisdom about her sport, and the girls practice some self-deprecation as they catwalk down memory lane. Featuring a spoiler-free review of Midnights (3 AM Edition), and appreciation for the Lonely Ghost community's favorite micro-celebrity, Indy Blue.
2022-11-0832 minGumptionLifelong Friendships, Spirituality, and Painting Pumpkins This week on Gumption, Lil is joined by Arianna Mack (that's where it's at! IYKYK). From their earliest days of being girlies in STEM to now, the ladies chronicle their journeys with spirituality and being kind to yourself. Check out Ari's podcast @ingoodnewspodcast on Instagram, and stream on all platforms for your dose of spiritual wisdom!
2022-10-2235 minGumptionGTG 2: Rival Cities Roommate ReunionGumption goes to enemy territory this week as Lil interviews her roommate-from-a-past-life, Morgan. The girls journey through pop culture, from Swiftie Nation to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and share their honest takes on Don't Worry Darling (don't worry, no spoilers). It's like old times on our couch, which we broke, by the way. Giveaway winner is announced!Visit meetcutebox.com to get your hands on the cutest date-night subscription box EVER, and check out @meetcutebox on socials! Don't forget to follow our Insta, @gumptionpod, for memes galore.
2022-09-2946 minGumptionDance on the Table & Meet the Cute!Gumption is honored to welcome Tony Berardo, co-founder of Meet Cute Box, to the pod this week! We talk sparking that entrepreneurial spirit in the face of adversity, staying connected to your partner, and meet cutes in every sense of the phrase! Enter our first GIVEAWAY- details on Instagram @gumptionpod. Make sure to check out Meet Cute Box's adorable date-night-idea subscriptions and other products on meetcutebox.com, and give them a follow @meetcutebox on all socials! Xoxo
2022-09-1928 minGumptionGumption on the Go: Long Island EditionJoin us for this chaotic minisode-on-the-road, where Lil welcomes her favorite person in the wide world (her mom). We talk travel adventures, crazy career changes, ultimate prankster moments, and Chelly learns how to correctly use modern lingo. We are, if nothing else, a family full of laughs.DM your Gumption Gone Wrong stories to us via Instagram, @gumptionpod, and don't forget to follow for fun updates!
2022-09-1228 minGumptionGet the Oven Mitt, Learn to Snowboard & Do The Darn Thing!In Gumption's second episode, Lil is joined by Kaitlin, Nate and Jack: three adventurous souls who tell of their travels and passions. Enjoy as we recount some of our finest friendship moments, and learn more about marine biology than you ever wanted to know (thanks Jack). Follow us on Insta, @gumptionpod, for bonus content :)
2022-08-2943 minGumptionSugar Parents, Self Confidence & Potato PreferencesFor Gumption's premiere episode, Lil reunites with the squad (literally). We discuss huge steps toward independence in post-grad life, and allll the high-school-era lore from our cheerleading days. Grace DiPierro and Gwynnie Resch, everyone!
2022-08-2233 minGumptionWelcome to Gumption!Introducing Gumption, a new podcast where host Lily Switka draws inspiration from everyday people and their amazing stories. Join us if you want to laugh, reminisce, learn, and just have a freaking great time. You can find our show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, with new topics and episodes weekly. Follow us on Instagram, @GumptionPod, for on-the-road updates, memes, and more. Cheers!
2022-08-1305 min