Grit 'n' Grace: Good Girls Breaking Bad Rules

Do you ever wonder if you’re a true Highly Sensitive Person because you love meaningful adventures or crave experiences that make you feel alive? It turns out that many HSPs are also High Sensation Seekers, which often feels like you’re living with one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake. But this isn’t about chasing adrenaline; it’s about seeking depth, richness, and significance. In today’s conversation, my guest co-host Pam Watts and I dive into what it means to say a faith-based “yes” to opportunities that feel bigger than us. Pam pulls back the curtain on her current adventure — preparing to dance on stage for a cause she deeply values — and shares the very real tensions of excitement, discomfort, and determination.  This episode will encourage you to look for your own faith-based “yes”es — whatever size they may be, and wherever they may take you. Links & Resources mentioned: "Vote" for Pam in Dancing with the Waco Stars https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dancing-with-waco-stars-voting-202

Do you ever wonder if your help actually matters? You show up, you do what you can, and later your Inner Critic whispers, You didn’t make any real difference. But what if you don’t have to be the expert, the fixer, or the hero who “saves the day”? In today’s conversation, my guest co-host Marisa Terrell and I discuss why your presence, rather than your performance, is often the greatest gift you can give. You’ll hear how ordinary presence can calm chaos, restore hope, and reflect God’s heart. Consider this episode your permission slip to stop second-guessing and start trusting the quiet power of simply showing up. Links mentioned: Take the “Am I a Highly Sensitive Person?” Self-Quiz https://CheriGregory.com/hspquiz/ "Write Beside You" Coaching with Cheri https://writebesideyou.com/writing-coach/ "Write Beside You" Unlimited Coaching Program with Cheri https://sensitiveandstrongbook.com/wby-unlimited-coaching-program/  

Do you sometimes say “no” to hope … without even realizing it? Many of us protect ourselves from yet another disappointment by distancing ourselves from the very experiences God is inviting us into. In today’s heartfelt conversation, guest co-host Danielle Grosse and I explore why biblical hope is never a demand to “cheer up” or “try harder,” but always a gentle, persistent invitation to receive good things — at a pace that feels safe. You’ll learn to notice God’s quiet nudges, release unrealistic expectations, and rest in the hope that meets you right where you are, right now.   Links Mentioned: Episode #293: Come Out of Hiding — Your Invitation to Step Into Healing https://cherigregory.com/episode293 Episode #294: Healing at a Gentle Pace — Why We Need Gentle Words & Ample Time https://cherigregory.com/episode294/ Episode #295: NOT a Bait and Switch—What Biblical Hope Looks Like in Real Life https://cherigregory.com/episode295/ Danielle’s book The Boy, the Boxer, and the Yellow Rose: Because You

Do you sometimes feel like hope is nothing more than a setup for heartbreak? If you're a Highly Sensitive Person, you've probably spent your life preparing for worst-case scenarios and bracing for impact — especially when it feels like life keeps pulling the rug right out from under you. In this episode, Danielle Grosse returns as my guest co-host as we explore how true hope meets us gently in the tension between fear and faith. You'll learn how to recognize false hope, notice God's presence in small but meaningful ways, and discover why biblical hope never rushes you, never shames you, and never disappoints you.   Links Mentioned:   Episode #294: Healing at a Gentle Pace — Why We Need Gentle Words & Ample Time https://cherigregory.com/episode294/ Episode #293: Come Out of Hiding — Your Invitation to Step Into Healing https://cherigregory.com/episode293 Danielle's book The Boy, the Boxer, and the Yellow Rose: Because You're Not Lost. You're Healing.https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Boxer-Yellow-Rose-Hea

In a world obsessed with “quick fixes,” Highly Sensitive Persons can feel perpetually stuck — as if growing slowly means something’s gone terribly wrong. But deep healing does NOT happen by force or formula. So in this episode, we offer you a gentler invitation: to drop the timeline to honor the pace of your body and heart, and to trust that so-called “delayed” healing is still holy ground. Through Danielle Grosse’s tender story of recovering while writing, we explore how gentle truths and soul-safe collaboration can help HSPs mend. Not by “powering through” but by finding refuge in the One who heals our deepest hurts. Links Mentioned: Episode #293: Come Out of Hiding — Your Invitation to Step Into Healing https://cherigregory.com/episode293 Danielle's book The Boy, the Boxer, and the Yellow Rose: Because You're Not Lost. You're Healing.https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Boxer-Yellow-Rose-Healing/dp/1964251532/ Take the “Am I a Highly Sensitive Person?” Self-Quiz https://CheriGregory.com/hspquiz/

Have you ever felt boxed in — by life, grief, expectations, or old labels you just can’t shake? Today, Danielle Grosse returns as my co-host, along with a group of our friends, as we explore what it means to step into healing … even when it feels risky or unfamiliar. You’ll hear how one powerful story is helping women tend to the hurting parts of their hearts in unexpected ways — and how realizing “you don’t live in a box now” can change everything. If your own HSP heart longs for gentle hope, safe connection, and the courage to believe healing has already begun, this episode is for you!   Links mentioned: Danielle's book The Boy, the Boxer, and the Yellow Rose: Because You’re Not Lost. You’re Healing. Take the “Am I a Highly Sensitive Person?” Self-Quiz: https://CheriGregory.com/hspquiz/ Episode Webpage:  https://CheriGregory.com/episode293

The decision is done — so why does your body still feel like it’s bracing for impact? It’s like your brain was on board but your body missed the memo. If you know that feeling, you are not alone. For those of us with Sensory Processing Sensitivity, dealing with the aftermath of so much sensory strain can be intense:  second-guessing self-recrimination shame spirals In this episode, we’ll explore the question, “How do you learn and grow from what just happened—especially when parts of the process were hard?” I’ll share what I’ve been learning about post-decision recovery, reflection, and documentation of your hard-won wisdom. So if you’re craving closure that’s kind rather than self-critical, you'll gain the tools you need to find peace in the present and to Equip Your Future Self!   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.c

Does decision-making leave you feeling pushed around — by others and even by your own brain? For so many Highly Sensitive Persons, high-stakes choices can feel like we’re navigating a minefield while wearing a blindfold! In this episode, my analytically-minded son Jonathon reveals how external pressure can sway us during important decisions. And I’ll share strategies to calm the inner turmoil so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. You’ll walk away with practical tools to recognize unhealthy pressure, protect your peace, and stand your ground — with others and with yourself.   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/episode291

When you feel like you’re always second-guessing yourself, it’s tempting to idealize being a "one-and-done" decision-maker!  But what if changing your mind isn't a sign of weakness but actually a sign of wisdom? In this episode, we're tackling the myth that Highly Sensitive Persons are “wishy-washy.” You’ll learn how “trying on” different options can free you from the guilt of sunk costs, help you honor your real-time needs, and lead to better choices in the long-run. You’ll also gain permission to update out-dated decisions, while embracing God’s grace as you grow. Changing your mind does not make you flaky. So often, it simply means that you’re paying attention!   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/episode290

In a world that idealizes instant answers and snap decisions, Highly Sensitive Persons often get labeled hesitant ... indecisive ... over-thinking. But what if your HSP brain and body are not motivated by being told to “Hurry Up”? What if your soul responds to pressure by asking, “Can we please slow down?” What if you need a counter-cultural approach to decision-making? In this episode, I share a real-life story of navigating a big decision (with a looming deadline) as an HSP who is, by definition, a reflective thinker. You’ll learn how scripture, curiosity, and community can lead to clarity and confidence. If you, too, struggle with decision-making, I hope you’ll find encouragement to honor your God-given pace and—whenever possible—to Take. Your. Time.   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/episode289

Why does getting what you want sometimes feel so wrong? You finally speak up, advocate for yourself, and even win—but instead of feeling victorious, you’re hit with guilt, second-guessing, or a sudden urge to backtrack. What is up with that?  Well, in this episode, I’m sharing a real-life situation that left me wondering ... why asking for what I want feels so uncomfortable why getting what I want can feel so much worse than just going with the flow, and how this is all tangled up with people-pleasing, perfectionism, and a deep DEEP desire for certainty. So if you’ve ever struggled to stand your ground, let’s talk about how to move forward with confidence—minus the emotional whiplash!   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/episode288    

Do you sometimes get caught up in the cycle of feeling ‘not enough’? If so, you’re not alone! In this episode, Amy Carroll returns as my guest co-host, and we get real about the questions of “enough-ness” that so many of us wrestle with, especially as Highly Sensitive Christian Women. In this deeply personal conversation, Amy opens her heart around the worry Am I enough? while I share my life-long struggles with wondering Am I DOING enough? Throughout this episode, you’ll discover practical ways to identify and shift the beliefs that keep you stuck in overthinking, overworking, and self-doubt. You can embrace your identity as God’s beloved … and you can learn to discern when enough is truly enough.   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/episode287

Are you the person everyone turns to — because you’re the peacemaker, the caregiver, the one who always says yes — but deep down you’re running on empty? In this honest and hope-filled conversation, guest co-host Danielle Grosse explores "the Heart of a Helper" and helps us understand why those of us who love to serve often struggle to receive. She shares why it’s so difficult to admit when we need help, how we can let others pour back into us, and what happens when we finally give ourselves permission to heal. If helping others has ever felt like both your greatest joy and your heaviest burden, this episode is for you. Join us for a discussion full of grace, wisdom, and real-life encouragement and that offers a new perspective on what it truly means to serve well as HSPs—without sacrificing your own well-being.   Links mentioned: Danielle's website Sign up for Danielle's newsletter ... which includes "Just Ask Dani" Take Danielle's quiz "The Heart of a Helper: Uncover What You Need Right Now" Tak

Have you ever had someone tell you, “You’re just imagining things,” or “It can’t be that loud” (or that bright or that itchy)? If you’re a Highly Sensitive Person, you’ve been there. Other people’s reactions to your heightened perceptions can feel isolating, even invalidating. But your experiences aren’t wrong; they’re uniquely yours. So in this episode, we’re looking at how our DNA shapes the way we sense and respond to the world and what that means for those of us who are HSPs. We’re also talking about why it’s vital to listen to, learn from, and care for the HSP body that God has entrusted to you. Your differences aren’t defects — your differences are divine!   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/episode285

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