"To me, grit is really about being faced with adversity or getting hit with something and not collapsing under the weight of it. But being able to come back not only to baseline, but to go above baseline based on training, based on that strength that you've built." - Eric Hodgdon This episode is sponsored by Thrive Protein | Canadian made supplements, nutrition, and hydration to fuel all your adventures. Check them out: Thrive Protein and use the code RUNEGADE to save 20% off your order. Eric Hodgdon, widely known as The Grit Guy, is a 2x TEDx speaker, Amazon bestselling author, and leading transition coach who empowers high-achievers to break free from corporate constraints and build resilient, purpose-driven lives and businesses. With over 25 years in corporate leadership, Eric draws on profound personal experience - including navigating the grief of losing his daughter - to teach the power of grit, resilience, and a growth mindset. Through his work as a lifestyle business mentor, grief coach, and founder of The Grit Guy, he helps ambitious professionals launch parallel incomes, navigate major life transitions, and create futures they truly control. In this heartfelt and powerful episode, Eric takes us on a journey through life's setbacks, grief, and the transformative power of resilience and storytelling. From overcoming personal tragedy to helping others find their strength, Eric demonstrates that real grit isn’t armour, but response - built through vulnerability, purpose, and connection. In this episode: Eric’s transition from a successful IT career to resilience coaching after facing profound lossThe true meaning of gritHow storytelling heals the brain and fosters universality in pain and recoveryThe myth that time heals all wounds and why proactive steps accelerate healingStrategies for helping others through grief and building resilience in personal and professional lifeThe importance of embracing vulnerability and living purposefullyPractical insights on practicing and preparing for life’s challenges, including public speaking and racing Connect with Eric: Instagram: @thegritguyThe Grit Guy Website – Learn how Eric helps you transition from employee to entrepreneur Resources and More: The Little Book of Talent by Daniel Coyle – Discover why struggle is essential for growthSteven Pressfield - The War of Art – Overcome resistance and unlock your creative potential This episode reminds us that resilience is built day by day, through response over armour, story over silence. Whether you're running, working, or facing life's unexpected setbacks, embracing vulnerability, connection, and a growth mindset can transform your pain into purpose. If you’re navigating your storm, Eric’s message is clear - you're not alone, and the next step is always possible. In a world of runners, be a RUNEGADE. Save $$$ with RUNEGADE - friends of the podcast offering great savings to RUNEGADE listeners. Connect with Todd, Mark and Harvey: Email: runegadepodcast@gmail.comTodd on Instagram: @altramarathonmanMark on Instagram: @runclemarkHarvey on Instagram: @altra_harveyRUNEGADE on Facebook Path Projects | our favourite running gear and apparel. Look great and perform to your potential by gearing up with Path Projects. Elite running gear and apparel, by runners, for runners. Hats, T-shirts, base liners, hoodies, shorts, jackets ... everything performs. Use code TRP10 for 10% off (limited time)