Today is the Day Changemakers

Hosted by Jodi

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192

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Through connecting with and highlighting changemakers, self-starters, and those who are disrupting the status quo, Jodi Grinwald’s ‘Today is the Day Changemakers’ channel will provide content that will connect listeners to real stories, from real people who are making a real difference in their corner of the world. These intimate interviews with inspiring and relatable guests will act as an opportunity for you to peer inside the minds of the latest gamechangers and creators. Changemakers believe in the greater good. They identify a specific issue or challenge and give themselves permission to do what is needed. Learn more about their tenacity, determination, motivation, and their innate ability to move past the challenges even when it is not easy. Every Wednesday a new interview will be released. Remember....Today is the day! You cannot go back to yesterday and you do not yet own tomorrow! Please follow on social media @todayisthedayliveit or email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com.

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60 recent

June 2, 202642 min

The Ripple Effect of Hope

Send us Fan MailFrom Adversity to Impact: Tisha Janigian's Journey of Hope, Leadership & EmpowermentWhat happens when one woman refuses to let her circumstances define her future?In this inspiring episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, host Jodi sits down with Tisha Janigian, founder and president of SHE IS HOPE LA, owner of SHE IS HOPE REALTY, and contributing author in the newly released book Today is the Day. LIVE IT! – From Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact.Tisha's story is one of extraordinary resilience, courage, and purpose.After navigating divorce and finding herself with no money, no credit, and no assets, Tisha made a life-changing decision: she would not allow her challenges to define her future. Instead, she transformed her experience into a mission to help other women rise.Today, through SHE IS HOPE LA, Tisha empowers single mothers and women by providing education, resources, support, and opportunities that help create lasting stability and independence. Her work has impacted countless lives by helping women recognize their value, build confidence, and believe that a brighter future is possible.In this episode, Tisha shares:✨ Her personal journey from hardship to hope ✨ The inspiration behind founding She Is Hope LA ✨ How empowering women creates stronger families and communities ✨ The lessons she learned while rebuilding her life from the ground up ✨ Why hope is more than a feeling—it's a strategy for moving forward ✨ The power of sharing our stories to help others heal and grow ✨ Her experience as a featured author in Today is the Day. LIVE IT!Tisha's impact extends far beyond real estate or nonprofit work. She is helping women reclaim their confidence, rewrite their stories, and recognize that their current circumstances do not determine their future potential.Her message is clear:You may not control what happens to you, but you can decide what happens next.📚 Featured Book: Today is the Day. LIVE IT! – From Edge of Comfort to Center of ImpactTisha is proud to be one of 31 contributing authors sharing powerful stories of courage, resilience, leadership, and transformation.The book reminds us that one decision can change everything—and that our voices, experiences, and stories have the power to inspire others to take their next step.Available now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and other major retailers.🌎 Connect with Today's the DayFollow for inspiring conversations, leadership insights, and stories of people making a difference in their corner of the world and beyond.📱 Facebook & Instagram: @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt🎥 Subscribe on YouTube for more inspiring episodes.🎙️ Listen, share, and help us amplify voices that remind us that hope is stronger than circumstance.Because connection is the work.#TodayIsTheDayLiveIT #TishaJanigian #SheIsHopeLA #TodayIsTheDayLIVEIT #WomenEmpoweringWomen #SingleMothers #Leadership #Resilience #Hope #ConnectionIsTheWork #AuthorSpotlight #PodcastInterview #EdgeOfComfortToCenterOfImpact #OneDecisionCanChangeEverythingSupport the show

May 13, 202651 min

Only Do Things That Make You Smile

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to leave your home country as a teenager, move to New York with nothing but a dream, dance your way through the entertainment industry alongside icons like Prince and Liza Minnelli… survive a life-altering health crisis… and then completely reinvent your life to help others heal from the inside out?On today’s episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, we welcome Monique Mannen — Cellular Health Educator with decades of experience in entertainment — helping bridge science, wellness, and real-life transformation.From winning a dance competition in the Netherlands that brought her to New York… to earning scholarships at Alvin Ailey, Joffrey Ballet, and Martha Graham… to appearing in over 50 music videos, more than 100 national commercials, film, television, and iconic projects alongside some of entertainment’s most recognizable names — Monique’s story is one of fearless determination, reinvention, resilience, and purpose.But perhaps her greatest transformation happened off stage.After battling years of undiagnosed health struggles that forced her to step away from the career that defined her identity, Monique found herself rebuilding not only her health… but herself. Today, she uses her voice, experience, and passion to educate others about cellular health, activation science, and what it truly means to advocate for your own well-being while protecting your peace, your purpose, and your joy.This conversation is powerful, honest, inspiring, and deeply human.Thank you so much for tuning in to the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast. If today’s episode inspired you, moved you, or reminded you of the power of reinvention, resilience, and connection, stay connected with us.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It, and subscribe to our YouTube channel, Today is the Day Changemakers, for more inspiring conversations with voices creating impact around the world.And if you haven’t gotten your copy yet of Today is the Day. LIVE IT! — featuring courageous stories of leadership, transformation, resilience, and human connection — you can purchase it online through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Target, and other retailers.Because sometimes the most extraordinary transformations begin with one fearless decision to bet on yourself.TodaSupport the show

May 6, 20261 hr 11 min

Who You Are Matters Most When It's Tested

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the person responsible for managing some of the hardest realities inside the prison system goes home carrying the weight of leadership… while also trying to raise children as a single father?In this deeply honest episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, Jodi Hope Grinwald and cohost Fred Wasiak, Principal Owner, Humanics Consulting sit down with Timothy Rougeux, Court-Appointed Monitor | Transforming Correctional Healthcare Systems for a conversation about leadership, humanity, pressure, parenting, and what it means to stay true to yourself in environments that can harden people.Tim opens up about his role working within the prison system — navigating intense situations, difficult personalities, emotional stress, and environments where strength is often defined by toughness instead of humanity.But behind the title and responsibility was something even more personal:A father trying to hold everything together.In this conversation, Tim shares:▪️ The emotional reality of being a single parent▪️ The guilt, pressure, and exhaustion that come with trying to “do it all”▪️ Working in a system that can challenge your values and identity▪️ What it feels like to constantly be expected to be tougher, harder, less emotional▪️ Why he refused to lose his humanity despite the environments around him▪️ The struggle of balancing leadership, parenting, work stress, and personal identity▪️ Friendship, resilience, sports, humor, and the moments that helped him keep going▪️ How staying grounded in his values became more important than fitting expectationsThis episode is raw, relatable, and deeply human.It’s about the invisible pressure people carry.The parts of leadership no one talks about.And the reality that sometimes the strongest thing a person can do… is remain themselves.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by responsibility…If you’ve ever tried to stay strong for everyone else…If you’ve ever struggled to balance work, parenting, identity, and emotional survival…This conversation will stay with you.Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today is the Day Live It. To find out more about working with Jodi as a leadership and connection strategist or to become a guest and share your story email jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com or go to our website. #Podcast #Leadership #SingleParent #PrisonSystem #MentalHealth #Resilience #Authenticity #Humanity #PersonalGrowth #Parenting #Changemakers #TodayIsTheDay #LeadershipDevelopment #Mindset #LifeLessons Support the show

April 8, 202648 min

Pinky Swear: Healing, Fear, & Taking the Shot

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jodi sits down with filmmaker, director, writer, and producer Monique Impagliazzo, whose work spans film, television, documentaries, music videos, and commercials—and whose passion for storytelling is rooted in connection, courage, and impact.With over 15 years in the industry, Monique has built an incredible career, including directing the award-winning comedy Turkey’s Done starring Cheri Oteri, which earned Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Comedy at festivals across the U.S. and Canada. She has also collaborated with industry legend Barbra Streisand at Barwood Films, contributing to projects including The Guilt Trip, international concert tours, and Grammy-nominated albums.Most recently, Monique directed two music videos—Which Way to Go featuring Malek Hanna and The Look of Love / The Island starring Roslyn Kind—and is currently developing multiple projects, including:Agency, a series following a determined female sports agent navigating a male-dominated industry Back to December, a feature film awarded $100,000 through the Montana Big Sky Grant Program And Pinky Swear, a deeply powerful short film about a woman who meets her 7-year-old self—and together, they begin to heal what was never meant to be carried alone In this conversation, Monique shares what it really takes to pursue a creative path, move through fear, and take bold steps—even when there’s no clear roadmap.Together, Jodi and Monique explore: What it means to take a chance on yourself—even before you feel ready How one decision can change the trajectory of your life The role of connection, community, and support in navigating uncertainty And how storytelling can become a vehicle for healing—not just for ourselves, but for others This is a conversation about courage, creativity, and the power of your voice—especially when you choose to use it. 🎧 Listen in and ask yourself: What decision might be waiting for you right now?🔗 Stay Connected:Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @todayisthedayliveit Subscribe to the Today Is the Day Changemakers YouTube Channel for more conversations that inspire action, connection, and impact.📚 Get the Book:Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! is available online at: Amazon | Target | Walmart | Support the show

March 18, 202657 min

The $89 Decision That Sparked a Life of Laughter and Leadership

Send us Fan MailWhat if one of the most prestigious programs in the world didn’t give her what you’d expect……and what she actually walked away with is the reason everything works today?In this episode, I sit down with Theresa Hummel-Krallinger—and this conversation goes way beyond career paths.We start talking, and within minutes, it’s clear—this isn’t just an interview. It’s one of those conversations where you’re finishing each other’s thoughts because you get it.Especially when we get into how we work.The piles. The open tabs. The constant movement between ideas. The challenge of finishing something… while also managing a hundred things at once.And also—the gift of it.Because while it doesn’t always look neat behind the scenes, it’s exactly what allows us to build, connect, and create at the level we do.That same energy shows up in everything Teresa has built.Her book Make Waves breaks your career down into four parts—but the one she lights up about?“The motor is your professional network. It’s people who know you, who will connect you with opportunities…”And she doesn’t just talk about it—she uses it.In real time.She shares how she reached out to her network for one person… and within hours, people said yes to helping someone they didn’t even know.She says it simply:“By and large, people want to help.”And you see that belief in everything she’s created—from her consulting work, to her book, to Meet the Authors, which started small and grew into one of the top networking experiences in Philadelphia.And then there’s the moment that really hits.Even with all of this… all the experience, all the relationships, all the impact…She still says:“Who am I to have these people in my life?”That’s the part people don’t talk about enough.This conversation is about what it really looks like to build something meaningful over time.To use what you already have. To trust the way your mind works. To keep showing up—even when you question yourself.And to recognize that maybe the thing you’ve been overlooking… is actually the thing moving everything forward.Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @todayisthedayliveitGet the book: Today Is the Day: LIVE IT! – Edge of Comfort to Center of Impact Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, and more.If you’re looking to strengthen connection within your team, your work, or your life—this is the work I do every day through coaching, consulting, and speaking.#leadership#Wharton#ADHD#Author#author#makingwaves#connectionSupport the show

March 11, 202636 min

From Foster Care to CNN Hero: Rob Scheer on Trauma, Grit, & Changing the System

Send us Fan MailCNN Hero. Featured on HBO Max’s Somewhat Familiar with Pedro Andrade. A national advocate transforming the lives of children in foster care.In this powerful episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, host, connection strategist, and author Jodi Hope Grinwald sits down with Rob Scheer, founder of Comfort Cases.Rob’s story begins with a painful reality experienced by far too many children entering the foster care system—arriving at a new home carrying their belongings in a trash bag. Having grown up in foster care himself, Rob transformed that experience into a powerful national movement dedicated to restoring dignity, compassion, and hope for children entering the system.Through Comfort Cases, Rob and his family are helping change the foster care experience for thousands of children by replacing trash bags with backpacks filled with essential items and comfort objects—ensuring that every child feels valued and supported during a difficult transition.In this meaningful conversation, Jodi and Rob discuss:• Rob’s journey growing up in foster care • The moment that inspired the creation of Comfort Cases • Why dignity and compassion must be part of the foster care system • Turning adversity into advocacy and lasting impact • The power of connection in creating meaningful changeRob’s work has earned national recognition, including being named a CNN Hero, and his family’s mission was recently featured on HBO Max’s series Somewhat Familiar with Pedro Andrade, helping bring international awareness to the importance of supporting children in foster care.About the HostJodi Hope Grinwald is a connection strategist, speaker, consultant, and author of Today Is the Day. LIVE IT!. Through her platform Today is the Day, Jodi works with leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and organizations to strengthen relationships, align purpose with action, and build meaningful impact through connection.Her book Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! brings together inspiring voices who stepped beyond the edge of comfort and into the center of impact—reminding readers that one decision, one conversation, and one moment of courage can change everything.Stay ConnectedFollow Today is the Day for more inspiring changemaker conversations and stories of impact:Facebook & Instagram @todayisthedayliveit#cnnhero #fostercare#nonprofit#comfortcases#HBOMaxSupport the show

February 25, 20261 hr 1 min

Applaud Our Kids: Where Access Becomes a Lifeline

Send us Fan MailWelcome to another episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast.What if access isn’t just opportunity…but a lifeline?For some children, creative expression isn’t extracurricular.It’s regulation.It’s belonging.It’s confidence.It’s therapy for a mind that needs a safe place to land.And when access is missing, something deeper is lost.Some things are simply too important to be reserved for those who can afford them.It was out of reach for my dad as a child —and by the time he found his voice later in life, he carried the weight of what access might have changed.A deathbed regret over not having the opportunity to fully step into what you love?That’s not acceptable.That’s why Applaud Our Kids was born.Today, I’m joined by Melissa Grinwald — President and Co-Founder — along with members of our advisory committee - Phil De Rita, Nick Ditri, Chris Maltese, and Elena Lanza — as we take you inside a nonprofit here in New Jersey that is doing something different. The Applaud Our Kids Foundation provides sustained, customized access for children of all abilities — because when access is present, creative expression becomes more than art.It becomes stability.It becomes identity.It becomes a lifeline.And if this conversation resonates with you — if you believe connection changes lives — I invite you to stay connected beyond this episode.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Today Is the Day Live It and Applaud Our Kids to witness the impact in real time.Do you love to read stories of inspiration, resilience, courage, leadership? My book, Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! — available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble — shares 31 powerful personal journeys of how everyday changemakers are building their own tables as they go to the edge of their comfort zone. When you take that chance and believe in yourself you may find yourself in the center of creating incredible impact.If you’re looking to grow your business in ways you may never have imagined — by connecting with your clients and customers in deeper, more meaningful ways that elevate both your impact and your bottom line — I would love to connect with you.I offer keynote speaking, interactive seminars, and customized workshops where I share my signature T.A.B.L.E.™ Method and teach how to use connection as a strategy — not just a value — to strengthen culture, deepen client relationships, increase loyalty, and drive sustainable growth.Because when connection is intentional, it stops being a soft skill and becomes a growth strategy.You can reach me directly at jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com to learn more.#performingarts #todayistheday #access #music #changemakers #soiree #fundraiser #lifeline Support the show

February 18, 202654 min

Life is Long: Connection, Prevention, and the Conversations That Save Lives

Send us Fan MailWhat if the words “life is long” meant something deeper?In this powerful and important episode of the Today is the Day Changemakers Podcast, Jodi Hope Grinwald sits down with:• Tom Peregrin, Founder of Life Is Long • Liz Menges, Chief Operating Officer, Ocean Partnership for Children • Jess Pepe, Development Coordinator, Ocean Partnership for ChildrenTogether, they have an honest, courageous conversation about suicide prevention, mental health, warning signs, stigma, and why connection is one of the strongest protective factors we have.Tom shares the heartbreaking story of losing his best friend to suicide and how that loss inspired him to create Life Is Long — a mission-driven apparel brand raising awareness and donating 17% of proceeds to youth mental health services in his friend’s honor.Liz and Jess provide clinical insight into: • Warning signs of suicide • The danger of dismissing comments as “just for attention” • Anxiety and depression as major risk factors • The importance of monitoring social media • Why talking about suicide does not cause suicide • What actually happens when someone seeks helpOne powerful statistic shared in this episode: Over 49,000 people in the U.S. died by suicide in 2023.In Ocean County alone, over 350 youth currently being served have experienced suicidal ideation or risk.This conversation is not meant to create fear. It is meant to create awareness.And most importantly — connection.If you are a parent, friend, teacher, coach, mentor, or someone quietly struggling — this episode is for you.💛 If You or Someone You Know Needs HelpIf you are in immediate danger, call 911.For immediate support in the United States:📞 Call or Text 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, free, confidential)📱 Text HOME to 741741 Connect with a live crisis counselor via text.For families in New Jersey seeking youth services:📞 PerformCare: 1-877-652-7624 Access care management services in all NJ counties.Ocean Partnership for Children serves Ocean County families directly.Learn more about Life Is Long: Instagram: @LifeIsLongSoA Message from JodiConnection is not a throwaway word. It is a lifeline.You never know who needs the phone call, the text message, the conversation, or the safe space.Today is the day to reach out.⚠️ Content NoteThis episode discusses suicide and mental health. Listener discretion advised. Resources are listed above for support.💬 About the HostJodi Hope Grinwald is a Leadership & Connection Strategist, Certified Professional Coach, Speaker, and Author of Today is the Day. LIVE IT!Her book — available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble — is a powerful collection of voices centered on courage, resilience, leadership, and motivation. It invites readers to move from the edge of comfort to the center of impact by embracing authentic connection and bold action.Through keynotes, workshops, consulting, and executive coaching, Jodi helps:• Organizations strengthen internal culture through connection • Teams navigate burnout and transition • Leaders communicate with courage and clarity • Businesses better connect to clients and customers • Individuals find their voice and build their own tableTo inquire about speaking engagements, workshops, or coaching services: 📧 jodi@todayisthedayliveit.com📲 Stay ConnectedFollow us on Facebook & Instagram: @todayisthedayliveitSupport the show

January 14, 2026Episode 257 min

LIVE IT! Author Series: Stories of Courage, Connection & Impact Part 2

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6 of the Today Is the Day Changemakers Podcast — part 2 of a special multi-part series featuring authors from the soon to be released book:Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of ImpactThe book is currently ready for pre-orders online on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart to name a few sites.In this episode, I’m joined by nine incredible author-voices:Heather Mistretta - Writer/Former Reuters Journalist; President, Women & Girls Education International; Board Member, Native American International Caucus; Certified Health CoachFred Wasiak - Owner/Founder, Humanics Consulting and Creator of Outdoors with PapaCatherine Curry-Williams - Cofounder, She Angels Foundation; Founder, Shane’s Inspiration; TEDx Speaker & Best-selling Author Debra Rizzi - President & Partner, RizcoDeborah Baker - CEO, Beyond the Uniform, LLC; U.S. Air Force Veteran; CEO Women Operating in OverflowJanet Kotsakis - Chief People Officer, Food Bank of South Jersey Mohan Metla - Founder & Owner, Mohan Group LLCSteve Cohen - Author of Leading from Within; Cofounder & Chair, Meditation4LeadershipTerese Rolke - Former Executive Director, Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce, EntrepreneurWhat unfolds is a living, breathing conversation with nine contributing authors.This episode explores:Why numbers, titles, and followers do not define impactHow one decision—starting a podcast—created a ripple effect leading to a book, a forum, and a growing ecosystemWhat it means to lead with humanity, courage, trust, and vulnerabilityWhy change doesn’t require permission—it requires alignmentHow kindness, collaboration, and presence create lasting transformationEach author shares:Why they said yes to this projectWhat inspired their chapterWhat they hope readers take awayOne word describing how it feels to become a published authorYou’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how the book is structured:Each chapter opens with a personal dedication and original quoteEach chapter closes with “Embrace the Moment” reflection questions—inviting readers to pause, reflect, and take actionThe book is designed not just to be read, but to be shared, discussed, and lived📌 Follow along and connect with the authors:Instagram & Facebook: @TodayIsTheDayLiveItWebsite: todayisthedayliveit.com🎧 Available on YouTube and all major streaming platforms.About the HostJodi Hope Grinwald is an Integrative Success & Leadership Connection Strategist, coach, speaker, and author with over two decades of experience working with leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and mission-driven organizations. She specializes in helping individuals and teams navigate career transition, leadership growth, and team development while strengthening culture and alignment at every level of an organization. 📩 Now booking speaking engagements, author talks & signings, and coaching opportunities.Learn more at todayisthedayliveit.com.Support the show

January 6, 202658 min

LIVE IT: Author Series: Stories of Courage, Connection & Impact

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 6 of the Today Is the Day Changemakers Podcast — and our first episode of 2026.This episode kicks off a special multi-part series featuring authors from the soon to be released book:Today Is the Day. LIVE IT! — Edge of Comfort to Center of ImpactThe book is currently ready for pre-orders online on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart to name a few sites.This conversation brings together leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofit founders, creatives, and visionaries — from California to Uganda — who each share how one decision, one moment at the edge of comfort, created a ripple of impact far beyond themselves.In this first episode, I’m joined by five incredible author-voices:Lenny Dave – Comedy historian and speaker bringing joy and human connection to senior audiencesCharlene Gorzela – Former CEO turned executive coach helping leaders listen to their inner nudgeAmy Delman – Publicist and entrepreneur sharing the courage it takes to take risks while afraidSarah Jakle – Advocate, nonprofit founder, and resilience researcher redefining hope and self-compassionChaya Pamula – Tech CEO and nonprofit founder transforming ideas into action through purpose-driven leadershipTogether, we talk about:What it really means to step into visibilityWhy connection — not titles — creates impactHow ideas become action when we stop waiting for permissionAnd why none of this happens aloneThis book — and this podcast — are not about ego, trends, or perfection. They’re about voices, belief, and the power of building an ecosystem where people rise together.As we begin Season 6, I invite you to listen not just for inspiration — but for the small step you might be ready to take.Because today is the day.📌 Follow along and connect with the authors: Instagram & Facebook: @TodayIsTheDayLiveIt Website: todayisthedayliveit.com🎧 Available on YouTube and all major streaming platforms.About the HostJodi Hope Grinwald is an Integrative Success & Leadership Connection Strategist, coach, speaker, and author with over two decades of experience working with leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and mission-driven organizations. She specializes in helping individuals and teams navigate career transition, leadership growth, and team development while strengthening culture and alignment at every level of an organization.Jodi's approach centers on integrative success: aligning values, communication, and leadership behavior with organizational goals so teams operate more effectively, reduce internal friction, and stay focused on the bottom line.Jodi is the creator of the Today is the Day ecosystem, which includes a globally streamed podcast, a national speaking platform, leadership programming, and a collaborative forum that brings together business and nonprofit leaders during times of change. She is also the author of Today is the Day. LIVE IT! — featuring stories from leaders and changemakers from California to Uganda. 📩 Now booking speaking engagements, author talks & signings, and coaching opportunities.Learn more at todayisthedayliveit.com.#authors#changemakers#courage#entrepreneurs#leaders#FearSupport the show