Grit 'n' Grace: Good Girls Breaking Bad Rules

Have you ever felt crushed under the weight of a mistake, convinced it's too big to fix? Whether it's a literal mess or a relational misstep, we often respond by piling on guilt, shame, and endless self-blame. But what if there's another way? In this episode, I share the story of a literal spill that led to a deep reflection on responsibility, self-blame, and the gift of grace. We'll talk about how to figure out what's actually yours to own, how to stop beating yourself up for every little thing, and how to open your heart to God's grace—even in life's sticky situations. If you're ready to stop over-owning every mess and start letting grace lead the way, this episode is for you! Links mentioned: The Sensitive & Strong Community Cafe: https://CheriGregory.com/Cafe/ Take the "Am I a Highly Sensitive Person?" Self-Quiz: https://CheriGregory.com/hspquiz/ Episode Webpage: https://CheriGregory.com/episode284

Do you ever feel hesitant to speak up for yourself? Today we're taking a deep dive into the messy and rewarding realities of candid communication! From navigating subtle hints to standing firm in your voice, guest co-host Amy Carroll and I share personal stories, practical insights, and a paradigm shift that caught me off-guard. You'll discover why "clarity is kind," learn how to balance honesty with grace, and gain tips for approaching even the toughest conversations with confidence. Listen in to this candid convo about candid convos filled with wisdom, wit, and the occasional buzzzzz of "aha moments"! Links mentioned: The Sensitive & Strong Community Cafe: https://CheriGregory.com/Cafe/ Take the "Am I a Highly Sensitive Person?" Self-Quiz: https://CheriGregory.com/hspquiz/ Episode Webpage: https://CheriGregory.com/episode283

Do you love dreaming, brainstorming, and making big plans … but then get completely stuck when it's time to actually #DoTheThing? As the year wraps up, it's easy to look back at 2024 and feel disappointed (and maybe even guilty) over all the things you meant to do but didn't quite get to. Friend, you are not alone! HSPs often stall out when the details become overwhelming or resistance starts creeping in. So in this episode, we're talking about why this happens, how procrastination might actually be protecting you, and—best of all—how you can move forward without guilt, shame, or forcing yourself to push through. Listen in to learn how small, gentle steps can help you build momentum in a way that honors your unique wiring. Links mentioned: HSP Coaching with Cheri "Write Beside You" Short-Term Coaching with Cheri "Write Beside You" Unlimited Coaching Program with Cheri Take the "Am I a Highly Sensitive Person?" Self-Quiz The book I mentioned to Marisa: Stumbling on Happiness by Daniel Gilbert

Have you ever found yourself dreading holiday travel, parties, and programs — while everyone around you seems sooo excited? For many of us, all the seasonal festivities can quickly become an overwhelming avalanche of stress, overstimulation, and exhaustion. And then, we end up feeling guilty for not being able to "just roll with it" … or even ashamed that we can't focus on "the reason for the season." So today, we're exploring: why travel and big events can take such a huge toll on us how past choices have made things harder than necessary how-to tips for navigating holiday trips and group gatherings. With intentional planning, you can honor your God-given HSP wiring and truly en-joy the most wonderful time of the year. Links mentioned: World's Softest Socks https://worldssoftest.com/ "How to Quickly Calm Your Overwhelmed Heart" eCourse https://CheriGregory.com/calm/ Take the "Am I a Highly Sensitive Person?" Self-Quiz: https://CheriGregory.com/hspquiz/

Have you ever felt like your big heart and deep emotions are both a gift and a challenge? If you've struggled with burnout — or wondered how to make a difference without losing yourself — this conversation is for you. Today's guest co-host, Dorcas Cheng-Tozun, shares how to ... use your emotional intensity and empathy as strengths … care for yourself while caring for others … and serve others in ways that don't leave you utterly depleted. Listen in for truly practical tips on setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and sustainably serving the people God has called you to serve. Links mentioned: The Sensitive & Strong Community Cafe: https://CheriGregory.com/Cafe Take the "Am I a Highly Sensitive Person?" Self-Quiz: https://CheriGregory.com/hspquiz/ Dorcas Cheng-Tozun: https://www.chengtozun.com/

During holidays, many of us feel the bittersweet tension between joy and grief … especially when there's an empty chair at the table. This week's guest co-host, Cheri Fletcher, is here to share a glimpse into her journey through the uncharted territory of grief after losing her beloved daughter Annie more than a year ago. She offers candid encouragement and practical tools to help us honor our loved ones, navigate heavy emotions, and hold space for mourning and meaningful connections. So whether you're grieving or supporting someone who is, you'll find comfort, understanding, and actionable insights to help you lean into both love and loss during this tender season. Links mentioned in episode: Cheri Fletcher's podcast episode: "Now What? When You Pray With Holy Expectations but the Unexpected Happens" Blog post I wrote years ago about Cheri Fletcher's reaction to learning that she's a Highly Sensitive Person: "The One Truth Every HSP Needs to Know" Get your sample set of Cheri Fletcher's conversation card

Have you ever felt like a failure at gratitude? Like no matter how many lists you make or journals you keep, this whole "giving thanks" thing (which seems to work for everyone else) just doesn't "work" for you? In this episode, Cheri Gregory and Lori Margo discuss why typical gratitude practices can fall flat, and introduce a fresh, faith-filled alternative: "Tracking God." This simple yet powerful approach helps you notice God's presence in deeply personal ways, even in the hardest moments. Tune in for an encouraging conversation about navigating life's challenges while growing closer to God. Links: Check out the episode web page at https://CheriGregory.com/episode278 Take Lori Margo's "What Does My Faith Really Need Right Now?" Quiz at https://LoriMargo.com/quiz Enroll in "Overcome Procrastination & JUST WRITE! 7 Surprisingly Simple Strategies to Get Your Words Flowing" at https://WriteBesideYou.com/join

Are you tired of tying yourself into a pretzel just to prove you're not "high maintenance"? In this episode of Grit 'n' Grace — The Podcast for Highly Sensitive Christian Women, Cheri Gregory shares three simple but life-changing habits to help you stop merely surviving and start truly thriving as a Highly Sensitive Person. Learn how to stop force-fitting yourself, discover what genuinely works for you, and find assurance in the custom-tailored care of Jesus. Let's move beyond the overwhelm and step into thriving together! https://CheriGregory.com/episode277

Have you spent your life hearing, "You're just TOO sensitive?" Are you tired of the overthinking, overwhelm, and exhaustion that come with being a highly sensitive person (HSP)? Ready to stop worrying that something's wrong with you and start understanding and nurturing yourself as an HSP? Welcome to Grit 'n' Grace—The Podcast for Highly Sensitive Christian woman. Your safe haven. I'm your host, Cheri Gregory. I'm an author, speaker, coach, and founder of the Sensitive & Strong Community Cafe. Every week, I'll guide you through building resilience, practicing self-compassion, setting healthy boundaries, unlocking your creativity, and learning to embrace—not fight—your God-given sensitivity. Each episode offers connection, honest conversations, and practical tools to help you navigate a world that often misunderstands HSPs. Together, we'll cultivate awareness, trust and confidence in how God wired you — at the DNA level — to be an HSP. You were made to thrive, and Grit 'n' Grace is here to help you do just

What happens when you step away from what you thought defined you? In this heartfelt episode, Cheri and Amy reunite for their 2024 "Catch-Up Convo," sharing their personal journeys of transformation over the past 14 months. Amy opens up about leaving behind vocational ministry to dive into a completely new real estate adventure, while Cheri reflects on the power of self-compassion in difficult seasons. Together, they discuss finding joy in unexpected places, letting go of old identities, and embracing God's grace in every chapter of life. It's a conversation filled with laughter, honesty, and hope! Get full notes and a transcript at: gritngracegirls.com/episode276

Do you ever feel like "It's just too late" — to get un-stuck or to start something new? Cheri and Amy are here to remind you that fresh starts and new adventures are always possible—no matter where you are in life. In this episode, they explore the joys of letting go, lifelong learning, and making room for what truly brings you joy. You'll hear stories of stepping out of comfort zones, setting bold boundaries, and embracing the idea that it's never too late to begin again. Join them for a heartwarming chat about discovering new possibilities, pursuing passions, and living with intention at every age. Get full notes and a transcript at: gritngracegirls.com/episode275

Do you ever watch other women start living big new adventures and wonder, "How does she do that?" In this lively episode, Kathi Lipp shares her unexpected journey from city life to becoming an "accidental homesteader" on 33 acres of wilderness. Kathi opens up about how a series of "what if" moments led her to embrace adventure, grit, and a new way of life. Whether it's raising chickens or building a greenhouse, Kathi encourages listeners to step out in faith, take small risks, and see how God uses their curiosity to create unexpected opportunities. Tune in for laughs, wisdom, and inspiration to pursue your own "what if" moments! Get full notes and a transcript at: gritngracegirls.com/episode274

Christian women are often told that being "too emotional" is a weakness, but what if our emotions are actually a source of strength? In this episode, Cheri and Amy debunk that myth, diving into an honest conversation about buoying life's heaviest moments with the promises of God. Reflecting on their interview with Michele Cushatt, they explore how naming and sitting with our hard emotions Debunking the 'Too Emotional' Myth actually builds resilience and deepens faith. If you've ever felt like your emotions are "too much," this episode offers real talk, validation, and practical steps for approaching your feelings as tools for healing and growth. Get full notes and a transcript at: gritngracegirls.com/episode273

Feeling overwhelmed by grief or big emotions? In this second half of our interview, Michele Cushatt — author of A Faith that Will Not Fail: 10 Practices to Build Up Your Faith When Your World Is Falling Apart — discusses why it's so important to actually feel your feelings, especially during hard seasons. With humor and raw honesty, Michele offers practical, down-to-earth tips for dealing with those big emotions while trusting God's heart for healing and restoration. Get full notes and a transcript at: gritngracegirls.com/episode272

Feeling like your faith is hanging by a thread? Michele Cushatt returns to share the heart behind her book, A Faith That Will Not Fail. Michele dives deep into the power of lament, vulnerability, and how we can truly support each other without slipping into toxic positivity. If you're facing tough times, this episode is packed with encouragement and hope to help you hold on. Get full notes and a transcript at: gritngracegirls.com/episode271

Grit 'n' Grace is baaaaaaaack! After a year-long hiatus, Cheri and Amy return for a much-needed catch-up convo. In this episode, they dive into what they've missed most, how life has changed, and the big lessons God has been teaching them. Amy opens up about navigating major transitions, while Cheri reflects on finding breathing room after seasons of chaos. With laughter, vulnerability, and wisdom, they share how God is at work in the mess. Tune in for a heartfelt and encouraging reunion! Get full notes and a transcript at: gritngracegirls.com/episode270

The saying is true. All good things do come to an end. In this last planned episode of Grit 'n' Grace, Cheri and Amy talk about lessons they've learned about ending well and the biggest personal changes they've experienced through the Grit 'n' Grace years. There are some big lightbulb moments in this episode! Listen to the very end to learn how to keep in touch with Cheri and Amy. Grit 'n' Grace is wrapping up, but your connection with them doesn't have to end!

When we're going through uncertain times, just keeping ourselves afloat can feel like a challenge. It's counterintuitive to believe that uncertainty can be a pathway to our greatest influence. Yet, that's exactly what we see in the book of Esther. With co-authors of the Esther study, Amy Carroll and Lynn Cowell, Cheri discusses four biblical steps that can lead us to influence in our most difficult days.

Let's be honest: It's difficult to love, know, and serve an invisible God. It's especially hard in uncertain times when He's nowhere in sight ... when He seems to have vanished. In today's episode, Cheri is the sole interviewer, digging for solutions to this dilemma with Amy Carroll and Lynn Cowell, co-authors of the new study, Esther: Seeing Our Invisible God in an Uncertain World. We're not the only women who have faced this challenge, so listen in for some ancient and reliable truths!

It's uncomfortable to be in a strange season, one in which your reality looks very different than your peers'. It can happen early in life when everyone else is moving into dorms while you go to work. Or later, when you're raising grandchildren while your friends are having their passports stamped. No matter the stage of life, you can have hope and purpose in your strange season. Cheri and Amy discuss the difficulties and unexpected gifts we find when our lives take a turn we never expected.