This Is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers

We talk about agency as the small, real choices we can still make when life is unfair, overwhelming, or full of grief. We connect self-awareness to action, name the nervous system “freeze” response, and share practical ways to find one next step without shaming yourself.  • defining agency as influence inside what you cannot change  • why awareness without action turns into shutdown  • Jodi’s story of leaving an unhealthy marriage over time  • what personal responsibility sounds like without blame  • Sherry’s health crash and the grief underneath “staying busy”  • rebuilding with deliberate, small moments of joy  • reframing coping as joy versus avoidance  • understanding fight, flight, and freeze in crisis moments  • sorting “what’s mine” versus “what isn’t”  • choosing one next small move instead of a full plan  • acknowledging real constraints like money and power dynamics  • owning harm you caused with a clean apology and repair  Crisis Support988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988, available 24/7National Domestic Violence Hotline — call or text 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), available 24/7 — safety planning, local resources, online chat available if calling isn't safeIf You're Still in It and Not Sure How to StartNAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) — nami.org — family support resourcesAl-Anon Family Groups — al-anon.org — for those loving someone through addictionIf You're Ready to Take the First StepsHEARTH Pittsburgh — hearthpgh.org — transitional housing for moms and children rebuilding after homelessness and trauma, with wraparound services including workforce development, childcare, financial stability support, and therapy211 — call or text 211 — connects you to local housing, childcare, food, and financial assistancePA Legal Aid Network — palegalaid.net — free legal help for low-income Pennsylvanians navigating divorce and custody Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

You can’t fix what you refuse to notice and most of us are moving too fast to see ourselves clearly. Season two starts with a small, powerful skill that changes how we handle stress, conflict, and burnout: self-awareness. We’re not here to spiral with the headlines or pretend everything is fine. We’re here to get grounded, put our own oxygen masks on first, and take the next right step with more clarity.We talk about what life chaos does to real people: freezing, snapping, people pleasing, numbing out, blaming, or going silent and white-knuckling it alone. Jodi shares what it feels like to realize she’s spent a lifetime making choices for everyone else, and why the first chance to ask “What do I want?” can be strangely painful. Sherry opens up about the wake-up call that came when the wheels fell off, and how self-sabotage can hide inside “healthy” routines until we finally zoom out.We also break down the two sides of self-awareness: the internal lens (what I feel) and the external lens (how I impact others). That second lens matters in relationships and it matters with kids, who absorb our tone, our energy, and our reactions even when we think they don’t notice. Then we bring it into everyday life, from clenched jaws and tight fists to doomscrolling and rage bait, and we leave you with a simple practice: notice, don’t fix.If you want more emotional regulation, healthier boundaries, and steadier decisions, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a friend who’s feeling stretched thin, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

Three words can change how you survive the hardest seasons of your life: This is it. Sherry opens season two by sharing the message her dad wrote to their family while facing glioblastoma, and how those words kept her steady through compounding grief, sudden medical events, and the long, brutal reality of loving someone through addiction and serious mental health challenges. We don’t sanitize any of it, because real resilience starts with telling the truth. Jodi brings her own story of loss, nonstop life changes, and the quiet ways friendships can become a lifeline when everything feels out of control. Together, we explain what the “Thriving Yinzer” identity means to us, shaped by Pittsburgh grit but open to anyone who wants to keep showing up. This isn’t toxic positivity or bouncing back like nothing happened. It’s learning to carry what you’ve lived through and still build a life that feels good to live, even while the hard things keep happening. We sit with the layered truth that happiness can coexist with heartache, and we talk about meaning, purpose, boundaries, wellness, grief, and why asking for help is brave.We also kick off the first theme of the season: self-awareness. If you’re running on autopilot with the mental list already spinning, we offer a simple practice you can do in ten minutes or even ten seconds. Notice one small moment. That’s the start. We share #4WINS4YINZ as a way to track small wins and keep moving forward, one grounded choice at a time. If this conversation helps, subscribe so you don’t miss the next theme, share it with someone who's looking for steady ground, and leave a review so more people can find the show. SIGN UP for the TY Community at https://www.thrivingyinzers.com/podcastLet us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

We close season one by tracing how small order, honest support, and micro habits help us move from survival toward steadier ground without chasing perfection. The theme is simple and stubborn: accept where you are, build tiny anchors, and keep paying it forward.• defining thriving as mindset, not destination• order over chaos through tiny tools and routines• taking a beat to exit survival mode• shifting from all-or-nothing to micro habits• acknowledging real survival needs and inequity• asking for and offering help without judgment• choosing acceptance, gratitude, and non-comparison• depth over algorithms and sustainable growth• season two focus on steadier foundations Check out thrivingyinzers.com/store for new merch!Podcast listeners receive a special offer of 20% off of three months of our 4WYNS home reset and laundry services at thrivingyinzers.com.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

The hardest stories to tell are the ones that matter most. We open our hearts to share a sister’s life, loss, and grief—while confronting the painful truth that love alone can’t solve a complex crisis. What starts as a personal remembrance becomes a wider discussion on addiction, trauma, mental illness, and the limits families run into when care systems fall short. We talk about her early path into substance use, the many attempts at treatment, and the community that showed up to honor her when she passed. Along the way, we reclaim the parts of her that deserve to lead the story: the laugh that lit a room, the fierce love, the playful spirit. We also name what too often goes unsaid—that boundaries can be love, especially when children need safety, and that caregivers carry invisible scars while doing their best in impossible circumstances.From there we wish to widen the lens with a plea for long-term, trauma-informed treatment, how co-occurring mental health conditions complicate recovery, and why stigma keeps pushing people to the margins. Our ask is simple and urgent: see the person, not the label; see the daughter, not the diagnosis. If you’re standing with someone in the thick of it, you’re not invisible. If you’re grieving, you’re not broken. And if you’re struggling right now, your life still matters—today still counts. If this conversation resonates, share it with someone who longs to feel seen. Subscribe for more honest stories, leave a review to help others find the show, and tell us: what does compassion look like where you are? If you or someone you love needs support:CRISIS HELP988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or Text 988Crisis Text Line — Text HOME to 741741ADDICTION & MENTAL HEALTHSAMHSA National Helpline — 1-800-662-4357Find Treatment — https://findtreatment.govNAMI — https://www.nami.orgAl-Anon — https://al-anon.orgNar-Anon — https://nar-anon.orgHOMELESSNESSDial 211National Coalition for the Homeless — https://nationalhomeless.orgCHILD & TRAUMA SUPPORTNational Child Traumatic Stress Network — https://www.nctsn.orgRAINN — 800-656-HOPE or https://rainn.orgLet us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

A life narrowed by chronic pain can make even simple pleasures feel like a threat. We sit down with Dr. Leah Flaherty, a pain psychologist at Allegheny Health Network and certified Empowered Relief instructor, to explore a FREE and practical, two-hour path that helps you change how your brain responds to pain—without pretending it will vanish. Grounded in pain neuroscience education and cognitive behavioral therapy, Empowered Relief gives clear, usable tools that calm the nervous system and interrupt the brain’s habitual pain loops and is accessible to anyone, regardless of insurance or location.We unpack why pain is both sensory and emotional, how stress chemistry keeps the alarm stuck on, and why it’s scientifically valid to say pain can exist even without new tissue damage. Dr. Flaherty explains the guided audio with binaural beats that helps many people relax faster, fall asleep more easily, and de-escalate spikes in real time. We talk through expectation management, the role of daily practice, and the power of reframing catastrophic thoughts into compassionate, realistic self-talk. Small wins count—like getting the kids from the bus stop or finishing one chore—and those wins build agency.You’ll also hear a candid personal story of trigeminal neuralgia, navigating stigma and “it’s all in your head” comments, and finding hope after medical dead ends. If you’ve felt defeated, skeptical, or unsure where to turn next, this is a science-based, accessible option that takes only two hours and costs nothing. Search “AHN Events Empowered Relief” to register and check out AHN’s “Brain Over Pain” videos on YouTube. If this episode resonates, follow the show, share it with someone, and leave a review to help others find these tools. Your story might be the spark someone else needs to try again.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

Life is messy — between burnout, stress, clutter, and emotional overload, most of us are just trying to hold it together. But you don’t have to stay stuck in survival mode. In this episode of This Is It! by Thriving Yinzers, we’re redding up the chaos — starting with what’s actually in our control: our daily habits, routines, and physical environment.We break down why chaos overwhelms your brain, how it hijacks executive function, and why it keeps you stuck in fight, flight, freeze, or fawn. Then, we’re giving you practical tools to restore order — even if life feels like a mess n’at.In this episode:Why your brain craves orderThe connection between clutter and overwhelmExecutive function explained Survival mode vs. intentional livingSimple routines that reduce stress fastThe Pomodoro Technique + small system winsHow to start redding up anything (mind, home, or schedule)This episode is real and full of tools to take back control — one small step at a time. 🎧 Press play. Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

When life tests us with unimaginable challenges, we discover capacities for strength and resilience we never knew we had. Megan Grau's story embodies this truth in ways that will leave you speechless, inspired, and perhaps forever changed.On a single day in May 2020, while the world grappled with pandemic uncertainty, Megan's world shattered: her husband Mike was diagnosed with stage four bladder cancer, her brother was hospitalized with kidney failure, and her mother entered hospice care. Within weeks, her mother passed away, and doctors delivered the devastating news that Mike had just six months to a year to live, followed by even more tragedies and loss. But the Grau family refused to stay down as they pursued every traditional and alternative treatment they could find. Megan boldly advocated for her husband. "I care about saving my husband." She lovingly cared for her family as they faced terrible life events all at the same time. What makes this story truly remarkable is how Megan found transformation amid tragedy. At 48, she left a 15-year career at a law firm to pursue real estate, studying for exams in hospital waiting rooms while Mike underwent surgeries. Their son Turner's college baseball career became a bright spot through the darkness, with Mike defying his prognosis to attend games throughout Turner's four years at Youngstown State and fifth year at Pitt.The overwhelming support from their community – 500 people attending a fundraiser, meals delivered for two years, strangers appearing with gifts – reminds us of humanity's capacity for compassion. Through it all, Megan discovered the power of intentional positivity, manifesting hope even on the hardest days while still allowing space for grief and fear when necessary.Whatever challenges you're facing, Megan's story serves as a powerful reminder: you are stronger than you think. By sharing her ongoing journey, she offers not just inspiration but practical wisdom for finding purpose, connection, and even joy amid life's most profound difficulties.The book Megan has now read multiple times is "Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life" by Roxie Nafousi 👉 thriLet us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

A cancer diagnosis changes everything. While medical treatment targets the disease, what about the person—their fears, their appearance, their family, their spirit? Laurin Scanlon from AHN's Integrative Oncology Division reveals the extraordinary support system maybe you never knew existed.The program, fully launched in 2023 after years of development, focuses on four pillars: health and fitness, diet and nutrition, image and appearance, and mind and body. What makes these services extra special is their accessibility—most are completely free and available to anyone with cancer, regardless of where they receive treatment or what insurance they carry. Even more impressive, many services are offered virtually, allowing patients to participate from home when they don't feel well enough to travel.Laurin shares details about their award-winning wig salon that serves all genders, races, and hair types; cooking classes that welcome entire families including children; vouchers for services like massage and acupuncture; and gentle movement classes. The program doesn't just support patients either—it embraces caregivers, family members, and friends who are also profoundly affected by a loved one's diagnosis.Behind these services are dedicated volunteers who contribute thousands of hours annually. From therapy dogs bringing joy during treatment to behind-the-scenes volunteers crafting dignity gowns and comfort items, these individuals become part of the patient's journey. For Laurin, whose grandfather received cancer treatment at AHN facilities, the mission is deeply personal—a way to honor his memory by helping others navigate their own cancer journeys with more support and dignity. For Sherry, whose father inspired the birth of this podcast also received cancer treatment at AHN. Cohost Jodi's mom also received cancer treatment at AHN. We are grateful for the opportunity to honor our loved ones and all those fighting cancer. Whether you're facing cancer yourself or standing beside someone who is, one phone call to 412-330-4045 connects you with this comprehensive support system. No referrals needed, no insurance requirements—just human-centered care that acknowledges healing involves much more than mediciLet us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

When life piles up fast—schedules, stress, emotions, unfolded laundry—it's easy to overlook how you're still showing up. That's why we created our #4Wins4Yinz framework, a simple tool to help you see progress when everything feels overwhelming. This episode guides you through four essential dimensions of well-being: spiritual (what gave you peace or purpose?), physical (how did you care for your body?), mental (what helped your mind feel clearer?), and connection (who did you meaningfully interact with?). We share our own weekly wins and demonstrate how acknowledging even one small victory can shift your entire mindset.As James Clear reminds us, tiny wins are foundational—they literally change your nervous system. When you practice noticing what's working, especially on days when it feels like nothing is, you build resilience one small win at a time. You stop waiting for perfect days and start finding the good that's already present.Whether you're thriving or just surviving right now, this episode offers a moment to reset, reflect, and remind yourself that you're doing better than you think. Because when you notice even one small shift, your whole perspective can transform with it.Share your wins with us using #FourWinsForYinz on social media or at thrivingyinzers.com/4wins—your victory might inspire someone else to start noticing theirs too. Leave us a rating or review to help us reach more people who need this message of hope and practical resilience.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

When was the last time you felt truly aligned—mind, body, and spirit working in harmony? For too many of us, that sense of wholeness feels increasingly elusive in a world that treats our physical and mental health as entirely separate domains.Matt Plutko, co-founder and Director of Wellness at Revelations Counseling and Wellness, joins us to share a perspective on healing that bridges this artificial divide. "Studies show exercise has the same effect on the brain as Prozac," Matt explains, highlighting the science behind their integrated approach. What makes Revelations stand out is their refusal to simply place bandages over symptoms—instead, they dig deep to identify and address root causes. In this conversatin Matt introduces his self-mastery framework. Using the  metaphor of wagon wheels creating ruts in dirt roads, he illustrates how our unconscious behaviors carve neural pathways that keep us stuck in patterns we don't even recognize. True transformation begins by "filling in those ruts" so we can steer our lives in new directions. This isn't about perfection or avoiding setbacks—quite the opposite. Matt advocates developing what he calls "anti-fragile confidence," where "the worse it gets, the more committed we become to doing what we need to do."Perhaps most powerful is Matt's guidance for anyone feeling stuck: "There's never a perfect time to start, so start today." He reminds us that growth happens just beyond our comfort zone, and consistent small steps—even imperfect ones—create lasting change. "It's okay to stink at something," he shares with refreshing honesty, "it's not okay to skip it."Ready to move beyond therapy as usual and discover an approach that honors your whole self? Visit the show notes below for links to Matt's self-mastery program and additional resources from Revelations Counseling and Wellness. What small step will you take today to create a new path forward?👉 Visit the Revelations Counseling & Wellness Website⭐️ Self-Mastery — Revelations Counseling & Wellness📸 Connect with @reLet us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

That little word "yet" might be the most powerful tool in your mental toolkit. When you catch yourself saying "I can't do this," adding "yet" transforms limitation into possibility—opening the door to growth where you once saw only roadblocks.In this reflective conversation, we explore the science and practical application of developing a growth mindset based on Dr. Carol Dweck's groundbreaking research. Rather than viewing abilities as fixed traits written in permanent marker ("I'll never be a morning person," "I can't do math"), we discover how adopting the belief that we can develop through effort, learning, and persistence literally rewires the neural pathways in our brains.We share personal stories of how this mindset shift made all the difference in our own journeys—from recovering from medical challenges to showing up consistently for difficult spin classes when we're dead last. The magic happens when we embrace challenges as opportunities to stretch ourselves and view mistakes not as failures but as valuable data points guiding our next steps.The beauty of a growth mindset lies in its universal application. Whether you're trying to learn a new skill, heal a relationship, or navigate life's inevitable setbacks, reframing your thoughts from frustration to curiosity creates space for genuine progress. We explore practical strategies for cultivating this perspective: celebrating small wins regularly, surrounding yourself with growth-oriented people, and setting healthy boundaries that create room for personal development.Ready to transform how you approach challenges? Join us to discover why progress—even in slow motion—is still progress, and how embracing the journey rather than fixating solely on destinations leads to deeper fulfillment and resilience in every area of life.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

Dr. Tony Kovatch, known as "Slow Tony" after being the last to cross the finish line at the 2025 Pittsburgh Marathon, shares insights from his 40+ years as a pediatrician and his philosophy on living a meaningful life shaped by personal struggles and professional triumphs.• Early exposure to his mother's battle with Huntington's disease influenced his decision to become a doctor• Viktor Frankl's logotherapy provided a framework for finding meaning in suffering throughout his life • The importance of treating doctors as humans, not expecting superhuman perfection• How obsessive-compulsive personality traits can be channeled positively • Pediatricians need to focus on the "little things" that patients remember—returning calls, showing kindness• Parenting advice: use positive reinforcement abundantly and recognize your words become children's inner voices• Running as both physical discipline and spiritual practice, even when finishing last• The metaphor of marathon running: "Your times become slower and slower, but the experience of the race is unchanged"• Finding meaning in retirement Never stop doing good for goodness' sake alone, without expecting any return on your investment of kindness.Dr. Kovatch writes on Medium-https://medium.com/@kovatcha42/stopping-the-hemorrhage-a-warm-well-lighted-place-b8e8ce27cbd4"Out of the Old Black Bag" by Dr. Anthony Kovatchhttps://issuu.com/ssmsdept/docs/bulletin_22.sept_final/s/16962787Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/tony.kovatch.12WPXI News Article Pittsburgh Marathonhttps://www.facebook.com/wpxi/posts/anthony-kovatch-73-a-retired-pediatrician-from-the-north-hills-proudly-finished-/1083758973788232/Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl https://amzn.to/4lIiYbKLet us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

Living with intention means taking the wheel of your life instead of letting it happen to you. We explore practical strategies for making deliberate choices that align with your values and create the life you actually want. Moving from autopilot living to intentional decision-makingWhy setting boundaries might make others uncomfortable—and why that's okayHow meditation and mindfulness can shift your nervous system from fight-or-flight to rest-and-recoverUnderstanding your "why" as a foundation for intentional choices Making small, consistent changes rather than attempting complete life overhauls Using intentional practices to navigate burnout, stagnation, and unexpected setbacksThe importance of giving yourself grace during the transition to more intentional livingIf something here spoke to you, please take a second to make sure you are following the show in your favorite podcast platform. Leave us a rating or a quick review and share it with some friends and family. Every follow and review helps us reach more people.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

Valerie Pedigo’s  journey through burnout began with a shocking moment—finding herself crawling up her stairs, physically unable to walk, yet still answering work calls from the floor. This powerful visual captures what burnout truly means: not just having too much to do, but having nothing left of yourself to give.As a certified life coach, human design reader, and co-founder of Renewed Spirit Adventures, Valerie transforms her hard-won wisdom into a framework that helps women reclaim their authentic selves after burnout. She walks us through the five essential steps of her approach, beginning with the most challenging: acknowledging burnout without shame. For those hiding behind the "I'm fine" mask while suffering physically and emotionally, this simple admission can be revolutionary.What sets Valerie's work apart is her emphasis on integration—the missing piece in most wellness interventions. While many experiences provide temporary relief, without integration, we return to the same patterns that caused our burnout. Through one-on-one coaching, small group work, and immersive retreats, she creates spaces where women can not only experience healing but also learn to apply it to "five o'clock on a Tuesday" when real life comes crashing back.The power of community emerges as another cornerstone of lasting recovery. Whether through culturally immersive experiences or the shared understanding that comes from sisterhood, this connection provides perspective that catalyzes deeper transformation. For those currently struggling, Valerie offers a simple starting point: take five minutes to write down who you are—who you used to be before burnout took hold.If you're feeling the emptiness of burnout or supporting someone who might be, this conversation offers both practical guidance and profound hope. As Valerie reminds us, healing begins with choosing yourself when you've been choosing everyone else for far too long—not out of selfishness, but as the authentic path toward becoming who you were meant to be.Follow on Instagram Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

When life gets heavy, sometimes the best we can do is make a hard day "nicer" rather than "good." That's the powerful distinction at the heart of our new segment and hashtag: #4WINS4YINZDrawing from behavioral science and psychology, we're introducing a simple framework to help you notice your daily progress across four dimensions: spiritual (what gave you peace or purpose)physical (how you cared for your body)mental (what helped your mind)connection (who you meaningfully engaged with)Research shows that celebrating these small wins actually rewires your brain, releasing dopamine and building momentum even when circumstances feel challenging.We share our own recent wins—from singing in the car with windows down to giving a duck to a nurse as a gesture of appreciation—demonstrating how these tiny victories don't need to be flashy to make a difference. The beauty of this practice lies in its simplicity: by acknowledging what's already working, you train your nervous system to recognize progress rather than perfection.Your wins matter, and we want to hear them! Tag us with #4WINS4YINZ on social media or visit thrivingyinzers.com/4wins to share your daily victories. We might even feature your wins in future episodes. Remember, thriving takes all of you—spiritual, mental, physical, and connection. Start noticing your four wins today, because tiny steps forward still move you in the right direction.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

We explore the concept of autopilot—that feeling of going through the motions without being present and how to break free from this cycle before it leads to burnout.• Autopilot sneaks up in small ways like driving somewhere with no memory of the journey• Our brains default to habits and routines to conserve energy, especially during stress• Warning signs include feeling constantly busy but making no meaningful progress• Small, intentional disruptions can break the cycle—meditation, planning, or pausing before reacting• Being present in little moments makes your whole life feel more alive• The body keeps score. Ignoring signals to slow down often leads to physical manifestations• Autopilot and burnout are closely linked in a self-perpetuating cycle• Breaking free involves awareness, creating space for rest, and reconnecting with valuesEmail us at [email protected] or fill out the contact form at thrivingyinzers.com to share your story about getting through tough times. Join us for our next bonus episode featuring certified life coach Valerie Pedigo discussing burnout awareness and recovery strategies.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

Dan Heffley's journey of recovery and resilience after experiencing a massive stroke at age 31 demonstrates extraordinary courage & determination as he continues to build a fulfilling life despite significant challenges.• Former Army Ranger who suffered a stroke after a carotid artery tear, affecting the entire left side of his brain• Lives with apraxia (difficulty coordinating speech muscles) and aphasia (knowing what to say but being unable to form the words)• Family support played crucial role in his recovery• Maintains an "A+" attitude despite setbacks, says "it sucks, but oh well"• Participates in regular speech therapy at Duquesne University for 20+ years• Discovered painting as a creative outlet & enjoys restoring furniture• Stays connected with fellow Army Rangers• Mastered tying his shoes one-handed after persistent practice• Demonstrates the reality of neuroplasticity through continued improvement over 2 decades• Lives independently and maintains an active social life in his communityTo FOLLOW Dan's continued progress, visit https://www.facebook.com/SupportDanHeffleyResources to help stroke survivors & Families to heal & rediscover joy after stroke.American Stroke Association – Recovery Resources for Patients The "Life After Stroke" guide provides practical strategies to help individuals regain independence and adapt to new routines. Stroke Family Warmline (1-888-4-STROKE) connects survivors & caregivers with trained team members for support and info. www.stroke.orgStroke Onward – Emotional Recovery GuideFocuses on the often-overlooked emotional aspects of stroke recovery, addressing topics such as grieving the loss of one's former self, rebuilding identity, and finding meaning post-stroke. It offers tools and insights to support survivors in navigating the complex emotional landscape of recovery. Stroke OnwardAfter Stroke – Peer Support NetwoLet us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

Small daily actions compound over time to completely change the trajectory of your life, whether in health, career, finances, or relationships.• Trying to change everything at once leads to burnout and failure• Starting small creates achievable wins that build momentum• Shifting perspective during challenges is crucial for finding forward momentum• Habit stacking combines new habits with existing routines for easier adoption• The 5-minute rule makes new habits feel achievable and non-threatening• Gratitude practice is foundational to creating a fulfilled life• James Clear's "1% better each day" approach creates remarkable cumulative improvement• "If the first step feels too hard, it's not the wrong goal—it's the wrong size"Join us next week for our bonus episode featuring Dan Heffley, former Army Ranger who experienced a catastrophic stroke at 31 years old, sharing his 20+ year recovery journey and lessons on resilience.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

We've passed 412 downloads and since that's our lucky number, want to thank our listeners for making this podcast journey possible – your support means the world to us as podcast newcomers.• Our podcast aims to create a space where you can catch your breath while finding your path forward• We don't compare pain or make assumptions about anyone's story – everyone carries something• Being on autopilot might mean different things for different people, and all experiences are valid• Growth isn't always obvious – sometimes it's quiet, sometimes it's just showing up• Life's challenges can feel like potholes, sinkholes, or climbing steep hills with impossible burdens• Every story matters, and there is always a way through difficult times• Full episodes release every other Saturday with bonus episodes and guest features coming soonReach out and share your thoughts! DM us on Instagram @TYPGHPOD, leave a review, or contact us through email [email protected]– we're building this podcast with you and want to hear what's resonating.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

We explore the transformative power of choosing betterment over bitterness when life doesn't go as planned, featuring part of Sherry's personal journey of recovery from medical and other life events.• Sherry shares how a series of small strokes affected her family life• Learning to accept a new reality and choosing better over bitter• How small daily actions compound into significant progress• Practical strategies to combat bitterness including gratitude practices  • Understanding neuroplasticity and how we can rewire our thoughts • The value of support systems and openly communicatingChoose better, not bitter. Keep going and growing. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone!Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

In the introduction to 'This Is It: The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers,' hosts Sherry Ehrin and Jodi Chestnut delve into the inspiration behind their podcast's name and its foundational philosophy. They discuss embracing life's present moments, inspired by Sherry's late father's simple yet powerful words of wisdom. The podcast aims to provide listeners with conversations about resilience, finding hope, and navigating life's challenges. The hosts emphasize that while they are not mental health professionals, they aim to build connections to helpful resources. They also explain the term 'Thriving Yinzer,' highlighting the spirit of resilience and personal growth characteristic of Pittsburghers. The podcast promises real, honest conversations with a touch of local flavor.00:00 Introduction to 'Is It The Podcast'00:08 The Meaning Behind 'This is It'01:34 Sherry's Personal “Why?”04:53 Podcast Goals and Expectations07:08 Understanding 'Thriving Yinzers'09:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts09:23 Disclaimer and Resources11:23 Fun with Yinzer Dialect & WhoopsiesLet us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...

Life throws challenges at us, but we don’t have to stay stuck. This Is It - The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers is here to help you conquer overwhelm, build resilience, and create the life you want—one small step at a time. Join hosts Sherry and Jodi as they explore growing through all the seasons of life. Whether you're rebuilding after hardship, navigating everyday struggles, or just looking for practical ways to keep going and growing, you’re in the right place. This is it! Let’s move forward together.Let us know how we are doing.Support the showVisit👉 thrivingyinzers.com for resources to help you keep going and growing. Tackle your to-do list and organize your space with TY Services. Shop our TY Toolkit for practical tools, books, and organizing essentials to help you manage life with more ease and intention.Books referenced on the podcast are available in the TY Toolkit, but here are our top 3 picks. 👉 Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl (paid link)👉Atomic Habits by James Clear (paid link)👉Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck (paid link)Help Us By:1. Share the podcast with your friends and family2. Rate and Review!3. Shop our TY Toolkit at thrivingyinzers.com or through Amazon Associates links listed above for books & resources mentioned on the podcast to keep you inspired. We receive a small commission for your purchase which helps support the podcast. 4. Sign up for email updates and special offers at thrivingyinzers.com/podcast.This podcast is a production of Thriving Yinzers LLC.Follow “This is It! The Podcast by Thriving Yinzers” on FacebookF...