Make it Count

This episode, Phil and Jennifer have guest Scott Braud on to talk about his journey to sobriety.  Scott started his career in the restaurant industry which is notorious for workers finding themselves in the midst of substance abuse.  He also grew up in the New Orleans area which has a culture centered around alcohol.  Listen to Scott's story of regaining his health and wellness and living life on his own terms while being sobe...

Phil joins Jennifer from Coeur D'Alene, Idaho the day after his Ironman Challenge to recount his experience in participating in the event.   He talks about his mindset before the race, his preparations, and the conversations he had with fellow participants.  He walks Jennifer through each phase of the race, the physical impact of the race, the mental impact through each phase, and the overall outcome of the race.

Phil...

In this episode, Phil joins Jennifer from Coeur D'Alene, Idaho days before his Ironman Challenge.  Phil discusses his mantra of the past 6 years of going from Stage 4 cancer to 140.6 miles.  They discuss where the mantra originated, where his head space is before the race, the challenges ahead, and what keeps Phil motivated to keep going.

Thanks for Listening. For questions, comments, or suggestions email us at m...

In this episode of the Make It Count podcast, hosts Phil and Jennifer invite Kady Tassin, a successful mom and entrepreneur, to share her story of losing her dad, running the family business to continue his legacy, and eventually pursuing her own ventures.  They discuss how Kady doesn't take no for an answer and balances her many responsibilities.  The episode highlights the importance of perseverance and hard work in achievin...

Samantha realizes an inexplicable and sudden change in one of her sons, Grant: he stops talking. This leads her down an unrelenting investigation, spanning months, before arriving at the answer: "moderately autistic". She then begins her journey of learning how to best meet Grant's special needs without sacrificing love & attention for his brother, Jude.

One resource Samantha found helpful in the journey...

Here is some inspiration to keep going when you need that extra push.  Craig has competed in several triathlons and Iron Man competitions.  Despite the grueling physical and mental challenges each event presents, Craig has pushed himself to the limit, never backing down from the immense training and preparation required. His unwavering dedication and disciplined mindset have fueled his passion for the sport, motivating him to overc...

Caitlyn's story is about overcoming obstacles.  At an early age Caitlyn lost her mother (who struggled with drug addiction) and lived through an abusive childhood with her father.  In her own words Caitlyn says "I try to set an example for others who have been through tough times in life. We can either emulate or do the opposite of the people who didn’t set the best examples growing up."  She chose not to emulate.

In this episode of the Make It Count podcast, hosts Phil de Gruy and Jennifer Maraist discuss burnout and feeling overwhelmed.   Jennifer expresses feeling overwhelmed despite doing all the right things like working out, eating well, and even meditating. Phil challenges the idea of burnout, suggesting that people use the term when they want to do something different. The two dive into the importance of listening and mindfulness, an...

Gladys may have lost her vision but not her memory.  Soon to turn 100, she is still as sharp as a tack.  Hear Gladys retell stories throughout her life: wars, presidential assassinations, military service, cancer, and more.   "Life Happens", Gladys says.  Even the darkest moments are still fleeting ones.   Listen to her experiences and know each circumstance is an opportunity to Make It Count.


*Correction to...

Jennifer and Phil update on what is happening currently in their lives.  They also take a look back on the past 39 episodes discussing the great moments they have had on the show.

In this episode, Phil's son, Jacob, opens up about his experiences with ADHD, coming out, dating, and mental health. Jacob contrasts this with the experiences of a former romantic interest. Underneath his blunt and humorous retellings lies a wisdom that helps us appreciate the differences in us all.

Four days. It was four days between Jaymie noticing her husband's phone location stopped moving, and her finally being allowed to see Matt's body. Jaymie offers a raw and vulnerable tell-all of the true grieving process: the truth about the shock, how social media starts conversations before you're ready, how other's move on long before you do, how the meaning of pictures and sounds change, how demons resurface,...

Tim Pelman, a five-decade Metairie native, joined by his wife Cherie, tell the story of Tim’s incurable, Bulbar-onset ALS diagnosis . ALS has reversed their traditional family roles: Tim, once the primary breadwinner and shepherd of his family, has now become dependent on others. Cherie has proven love stands the test of time by stepping in to care for Tim and responsibilities he can no longer manage. A diagnosis of ALS can mean on...

Expected to die shortly after birth, Adam Linebarger, was born with a severe form of Spina Bifida which left him paralyzed from the waist down and many other medical issues. Despite these challenges, Adam has done more than most in his short 20 years of life.  With the help of his mom and dad, Adam makes the most out of life every day and inspires every one he comes into contact with to make it count!

This episode is all about trusting in yourself, following your gut and heart.

Phil and Jennifer speak with New Orleans native Lauren Haydel about believing in her idea which led to her successful business, Fleurty Girl.  Lauren is the founder and Chief Treasure Hunter of Fleurty Girl, a popular boutique chain in New Orleans. From humble beginnings, Lauren started her company out of her home with her three small children. F...

At the age of 17, Brittany Vicknair was in her first semester at college at Southeastern University in Hammond, LA.  After feeling strangely ill one day she was taken to the hospital where she was put into an induced coma.   Brittany awoke 6 days later to discover she had contracted bacterial meningitis and her legs were basically “dead” due to sepsis.   The decision was made to amputate both legs below the knee.   

After ...

Jennifer and Phil talk with John Dalton about his positive outlook on life and stepping into the realm of entrepreneurship.  Eight years ago John took a leap of faith by leaving a company he loved and opening up his own business.

John is now the principal and co-owner of Dalton Architects, Inc., husband and father of three, youth sports coach, and a self described "wanna-be superhero."  He defines himself as &quo...

In this episode, Jen and Phil talk with Natalie Haniford about her journey through grieving child loss, parenting after such a loss, and healing thereafter.

In just four years Natalie experienced significant challenges and grief.  She lost her daughter at 20 weeks, soon after consecutively lost many loved ones , and then gave birth to a beautiful baby boy with medical complications.

 Natalie continues to Make It C...

Jennifer and Phil speak with Silvana about her recent divorce and soon after diagnosis with breast cancer.  Silvana is a mother and grandmother dedicated to her family and work advancing the mission of Catholic Education on the New Orleans Westbank. She currently serves as the Advancement Director of Immaculate Conception School in Marrero, LA. 

 Silvana's outlook is contagiously positive.  She says that "despite...