In this episode of Out of the Gray, host Daniel Lugo sits down with Jason Dietrich, a passionate STEM educator and autism advocate, to discuss his life with Hyperlexia—a unique form of autism characterized by advanced reading skills combined with comprehension challenges.

Jason opens up about how he transformed his struggles into superpowers through the hands-on world of STEM education. We explore how critical thinking, resilience, and a "failure-is-feedback" mindset saved his life and fueled his dreams of becoming an astronaut.

Here are all the links to follow Jason and his company:

SSAI Links:

1. Website: https://www.ssaihq.com

2. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/ssai

3. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ScienceSystemsandApplicationsI

For any company partnership inquiries, please reach out to connect@ssaihq.com.

To connect with him personally, you can reach out to clarinetman114@gmail.com.

In this conversation, we cover:

• 🚀 Defying Labels: Jason’s journey with Hyperlexia and neurodiversity.
• 🔬 The Power of STEM: Why hands-on learning is a game-changer for diverse minds.
• ❤️ Community & Support: The vital role of finding your "crew."
• 🌠 Reaching for the Stars: Jason’s rigorous path toward space travel.

Join us for a powerful reminder to trust the process, embrace your failures, and find joy in the everyday moments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jason Dietrich

03:18 Overcoming Early Challenges and Discovering Hyperlexia

08:31 The Transformative Power of STEM Education

14:05 Learning Through Failure and Resilience

21:40 Life Lessons and the Journey of Growth

30:34 Legacy and Purpose in Advocacy

35:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

#neurodiversity #autismawareness #STEMEducation #inspiration #personalgrowth #resilience #hyperlexia #autismadvocate #spacedreams #handsonlearning #criticalthinking #FutureAstronaut #OutoftheGray #Podcast #DanielLugo #Interview #lifelessons

In this episode of the Out of the Gray Podcast, Daniel interviews Emily Guerra, a mindful productivity coach. Emily shares her journey of overcoming challenges during COVID, emphasizing the importance of small, consistent changes (the 1% mentality) in achieving personal growth and work-life balance. The conversation explores the significance of building habits, the role of willpower, and the necessity of reframing negativity into positivity. Emily also discusses her legacy of helping others escape hustle culture and find joy in their work and life.

https://linktr.ee/theproductivityflow

This is the link to Emily's coaching programs, courses, and more. I have 2 one-on-one coaching programs: 1) Productivity Life Coaching, 2) Accountable Mindset. I also have an online course called "How to Get Unstuck & Move Forward," which offers dozens of extra tools & a free 1-1 session with me post-course completion.

You can follow me @dlugoofficial on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mindful Productivity

01:06 Navigating Rock Bottom During COVID

03:14 The 1% Mentality for Progress

06:07 Building Consistency in Habits

09:05 The Importance of Pushing Beyond Comfort

12:22 Making Sacrifices for Growth

15:45 Combining Enjoyment with Discipline

19:51 Understanding Phases of Life and Motivation

22:04 Finding Intrinsic Motivation

25:14 Overcoming Doubt and Fear

26:51 From Rock Bottom to Productivity Coaching

30:17 Mindset Shifts for Growth

34:04 The Power of Positivity

37:51 Reframing Negativity Bias

42:27 Building a Gratitude Practice

46:51 Legacy of Empowerment and Balance

#tuesdaymotivation #mindfulness #motivation #gratitude #coaching #habits #personalgrowth #consistency #overcomingobstacles

Summary

In this episode, Daniel Lugo speaks with Frankie Corcoran, a theater director, actor, playwright, and podcaster. They discuss Frankie's journey through personal struggles, including his rock bottom after high school, the impact of the pandemic on his creative pursuits, and the importance of gratitude and self-discovery. Frankie shares insights on overcoming adversity, realizing one's capabilities, and the significance of saying no to maintain balance in life. The conversation emphasizes the value of pursuing passions and inspiring others through storytelling.

Go listen to Franky: https://open.spotify.com/show/3WQZis2AmXkQYR8mk7sVs1?si=05579faa87a64a9e

You can follow me @dlugoofficial

As always, thank you for your support:)

Takeaways

• Each person's rock bottom is unique and personal.
• Self-reflection is crucial for discovering one's true path.
• Gratitude can shift our perspective on what we have.
• Adversity often leads to personal growth and new opportunities.
• The pandemic can serve as a catalyst for creativity and passion.
• Realizing our capabilities can empower us to pursue our dreams.
• Saying no is essential for maintaining mental health and balance.
• Life experiences shape our understanding of fulfillment.
• Inspiring others through our stories can create a ripple effect.
• Pursuing passions can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:01 Facing Rock Bottom

06:25 The Quest for Fulfillment

10:43 Gratitude and Perspective

12:19 Overcoming Adversity

15:23 Finding Passion During the Pandemic

18:38 Growth Through Struggles

23:04 Realizing Capabilities

26:40 The Importance of Saying No

29:56 Legacy and Inspiration

Summary

How does a teenager write 38 books while navigating the 'gray' areas of life? In this episode, host Daniel Lugo sits down with teen author Shanti Hershenson to pull back the curtain on her high-volume storytelling process. Shanti opens up about the moments of self-doubt that almost stopped her and the specific habits she built to keep her pen moving. If you’ve ever struggled to finish what you started, Shanti’s journey from 'rock bottom' to a 38-book legacy will change how you view discipline."

https://www.amazon.com/Shanti-Hershenson/e/B08QRF5LP4?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1645593351&sr=8-1

Please visit Shanti's author page on Amazon.com to view and purchase my books. My website, shantihershenson.com includes links to all of my books, press, events, and more!

You can find me on social media @dlugoofficial

As always, thank you for your support!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shanti Hershenson

01:17 Overcoming Rock Bottom Moments

03:33 Finding Motivation in Writing

06:57 The Importance of Habits in Writing

08:20 Exploring Themes in Shanti's Books

10:13 Legacy and Impact as a Writer

11:21 The Process of Writing 38 Books

15:04 Creating Habits for Success

16:03 Future Goals and Aspirations

18:31 Inspiration Behind Writing

19:54 Final Thoughts and Advice

Summary: In this episode of the Out of the Gray Podcast, host Daniel Lugo welcomes Alan Lazaros, CEO of Next Level University, to discuss personal growth, overcoming adversity, and the importance of self-belief. Alan shares his journey, detailing pivotal moments in his life that shaped his perspective, including the loss of his father and stepfather, and a life-altering car accident. These experiences led him to a commitment to personal development and helping others reach their full potential. He emphasizes the significance of the people we allow to influence our minds and how our mindset can dictate our future. The conversation delves into the concept of rock bottom moments and how they can serve as catalysts for change. Alan discusses the importance of hard work, resilience, and the necessity of facing challenges head-on. He also highlights the difference between those who believe life should be easy and those who understand that challenges are a part of growth. The episode concludes with Alan sharing insights on health, wealth, and love, and how these elements are interconnected in the pursuit of a fulfilling life.

Find Alan at:

https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/

https://www.instagram.com/alazaros88/

As always, thank you for your support!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Alan Lazaros

02:39 Facing Rock Bottom Moments

07:27 The Journey of Personal Growth

12:32 The Importance of Mindset

18:07 Health, Wealth, and Love: The Foundation of Success

24:05 Defining Personal Success

30:40 The Power of Curiosity and Learning

39:19 Understanding Core Wounds and Identity

51:17 Conclusion and Resources

Summary

In this episode of the Out of the Gray Podcast, host Daniel Lugo and guest Jenny C. Cohen discuss the journey of healing and resilience through personal struggles. They share their experiences of rock-bottom moments, the importance of seeking help, and the role of community in overcoming adversity. The conversation emphasizes the significance of movement, self-care, and maintaining a positive influence in one's life. Jenny introduces her Spotlight Confidence Formula, encouraging listeners to recognize their worthiness and embrace joy and playfulness as essential parts of life. The episode concludes with a message of hope and support for those facing challenges.

Here is the link to Jenny's socials:

https://jennyccohen.com/home

https://danceandheal.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennyccohen/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dancetohealpodcast

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Healing and Resilience

03:04 Facing Rock Bottom: Personal Stories of Struggle

05:52 The Importance of Seeking Help and Community

08:47 Finding Perspective in Suffering

12:01 Lessons Learned from Adversity

14:57 The Role of Movement and Dance in Healing

18:06 The Power of Positive Influence and Community

21:02 Understanding Worthiness and Self-Care

24:11 The Spotlight Confidence Formula

26:48 Embracing Joy and Playfulness in Life

29:56 Conclusion: Moving Forward Together

#adversity #powerful #inspiring #motivation #content #fyp #community #inspiration

Summary

In this episode of the Out of the Gray Podcast, Daniel Lugo speaks with Tobi, an engineer and podcaster from Nigeria, who shares his journey of migration to Germany, the challenges he faced, and how he found hope and strength through faith and learning from others. Tobi discusses the importance of self-reflection, the role of mentors, and the significance of gratitude in overcoming life's struggles. He also introduces his podcast, Mirror Talk, which focuses on meaningful conversations that encourage listeners to reflect on their lives and personal growth.

Follow Tobi at:

https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/

Takeaways

Tobi moved to Germany for education and faced significant challenges.

Learning from others' experiences can prevent personal mistakes.

Faith and hope are crucial in overcoming hardships.

Struggles are a part of life and help us grow stronger.

Self-reflection is essential for personal development.

Tobi's podcast aims to inspire and encourage listeners.

Gratitude can shift our perspective on life's challenges.

Life is a cycle of struggles and growth.

We should embrace our journey as a work in progress.

The best time to start improving ourselves is now.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tobi's Journey

04:19 Facing Challenges of Migration

08:16 Turning Point: Learning from Others

12:06 Influences and Inspirations

14:20 The Role of Hardships in Growth

23:43 The Birth of the Mirror Talk Podcast

29:39 Key Takeaways and Reflections

In this episode of the Out of the Gray Podcast, Daniel Lugo interviews Lisa Franz, a nutrition and fitness coach with a master's in exercise science. Lisa shares her journey from being a police officer to pursuing her passion for health and wellness. She discusses overcoming personal struggles, the importance of taking risks, and defining success on one's own terms. The conversation emphasizes the significance of nutrition, individualized approaches to health, and the value of consistency in both personal and professional life. Lisa also highlights the role of mentorship and the need to challenge oneself for growth.

Follow Lisa: https://www.instagram.com/nutritioncoachingandlife/

Please remember to like, subscribe, comment, and share with those you love:)

takeaways:

-Lisa transitioned from a police officer to a nutrition coach after hitting rock bottom.

-She emphasizes the importance of taking risks to pursue one's passion.

-Defining success is personal and varies from person to person.

-Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall health and performance.

-Individualized approaches to diet are essential for success.

-Consistency is more important than perfection in achieving goals.

-Finding balance and avoiding burnout is key to long-term success.

-Mentorship can provide valuable guidance and support.

-Listening to your intuition is vital for personal growth.

-Clear communication about goals can help in achieving them.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Lisa France and Her Journey

01:25 Overcoming Rock Bottom: A Personal Story

03:12 Transitioning from Police Work to Coaching

05:56 The Illusion of Safety and Taking Risks

10:07 Defining Success on Your Own Terms

14:26 The Importance of Nutrition in Health

18:03 Individualized Approaches to Diet and Fitness

21:48 Finding Joy and Balance in Work and Life

26:02 Redefining Success and Preventing Burnout

27:29 The Importance of Consistency in Success

32:40 Finding Joy in the Journey

37:34 Listening to Your Intuition

40:54 The Role of Mentorship and Self-Development

47:06 Practical Takeaways for Growth