Mav’s Coffee Clarity with Denise DiGrigoli

EP 210: The MAV Mindset: Lori Jones

On this episode of MAV’s Coffee Clarity, we sit down with Lori Jones from the Quick Center for the Arts to discuss the transformative role of the arts and the impact of cultural institutions on communities. 
Lori also shares her personal journey, including a major career move in pursuit of her professional goals. From the importance of artistic expression to the courage it takes to chase new opportunities, this episode is filled with inspiration and insight. Grab your coffee and tune in!
========="For me it (consensus building) is about making sure there is room for everyone at the table in a meaningful way. That everyone has the opportunity" - Lori  Jones
Key Beans:
Use Interviews as a chance to learn about another organization. Remember as much as they are interviewing you, you are interviewing them.
View your own life with gratitude. Everything can change in a moment.
In order to get things done, you need to listen first before taking action
=========Stay Connected:
Learn more: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com
Subscribe to the Biweekly Brew: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com 
Follow on Instagram: @mavscoffeeclarity 
https://www.youtube.com/@MavsCoffeeClarity 
https://substack.com/@denisedigrigoli 
See  all upcoming events at the Quick Center for the Arts at Fairfield University: https://quickcenter.fairfield.edu/ 
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If you just found me, welcome! And if you're a regular listener, welcome back! This is where I interview some fascinating people from all walks, from well-known to not-so-known, entrepreneurs to creatives, performers, and athletes—forward-thinking individuals, people who found the silver lining in their fiascos and life's challenges, and can laugh with it!
It’s business & life hacks, the real beans! Fresh ideas to inspire you and help you #move forward. We’re real! Unedited. Authentic. Like coffee with a friend, conversations, stories you can trust, infused with humor! We tape live in short formats, 18, 27 or 36 minutes max because we have stuff to do! #thankyou #podcast #mavcoffeeclaritywithdenise #moveforward 

EP 208: The MAV Mindset: Helen Polise

On this episode of MAV’s Coffee Clarity, we’re sitting down with the incredible Helen Polise, aka @themuthership, the TikTok sensation known for empowering creators of all ages to master social media. Helen has built a thriving online presence by making content creation accessible, fun, and stress-free—proving that it’s never too late to embrace digital storytelling.
Helen opens up about her incredible career shift from TV and advertising to becoming a TikTok sensation, her experience working alongside her daughter in the digital space, and the lessons they’ve learned from building together. She also shares her deeply personal cancer journey, discussing resilience, perspective, and how she continues to inspire and uplift others through storytelling.
This episode is a powerful blend of business, creativity, and life’s unexpected turns—offering wisdom, encouragement, and, of course, plenty of clarity.
Grab your coffee and tune in—it’s one you don’t want to miss! ☕✨
========="When I make a video 80% of the people in the comments are rooting for me. I think that’s why I have been able to get over my real life fear of public speaking. I’m like all those people are rooting for me." - Helen Polise 
Key Beans:
Never say no, say not now. 
It is okay not to try and surf every wave or take every opportunity. Instinct will tell you what is right. 
The only way to get over something is to dive in and do it until it feels like second nature.
=========Stay Connected:
Learn more: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com
Subscribe to the Biweekly Brew: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com 
Follow on Instagram: @mavscoffeeclarity 
https://www.youtube.com/@MavsCoffeeClarity 
https://substack.com/@denisedigrigoli 
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Find Helen Here: 
Hello Socialize: https://nas.io/socialize-studio 
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themuthership 
Podcast: https://hellosocialize.transistor.fm/ 
Website: https://www.muthership.com/links 
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If you just found me, welcome! And if you're a regular listener, welcome back! This is where I interview fascinating people from all walks of life—entrepreneurs, creatives, performers, athletes—forward-thinking individuals who have found the silver lining in their fiascos and challenges (and can laugh about it!). It’s business and life hacks—the real beans! Fresh ideas to inspire you and help you #MOVEFORWARD. We’re real. Unedited. Authentic. Like coffee with a friend—conversations and stories you can trust, infused with humor! We tape live in short formats—18, 27, or 36 minutes max—because we’ve got stuff to do! #ThankYou #Podcast #MavsCoffeeClarity #MoveForward

EP 209: Everyone is Leading Something

In this quick but powerful Espresso Shot, we’re diving into the idea that leadership isn’t just for CEOs and managers—everyone is leading something. Whether it's a project, a conversation, or even your own mindset, leadership is about influence, not just authority. Tune in for a fresh perspective on how you’re already leading in ways you might not even realize, and how to embrace it with confidence. ☕✨
 
=========Stay Connected:
Learn more: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com
Subscribe to the Biweekly Brew: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com 
Follow on Instagram: @mavscoffeeclarity 
https://www.youtube.com/@MavsCoffeeClarity 
https://substack.com/@denisedigrigoli 
=========
Find Helen Here: 
Hello Socialize: https://nas.io/socialize-studio 
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themuthership 
Podcast: https://hellosocialize.transistor.fm/ 
Website: https://www.muthership.com/links 
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If you just found me, welcome! And if you're a regular listener, welcome back! This is where I interview fascinating people from all walks of life—entrepreneurs, creatives, performers, athletes—forward-thinking individuals who have found the silver lining in their fiascos and challenges (and can laugh about it!). It’s business and life hacks—the real beans! Fresh ideas to inspire you and help you #MOVEFORWARD. We’re real. Unedited. Authentic. Like coffee with a friend—conversations and stories you can trust, infused with humor! We tape live in short formats—18, 27, or 36 minutes max—because we’ve got stuff to do! #ThankYou #Podcast #MavsCoffeeClarity #MoveForward

EP 207: The MAV Mindset: Ira Joe Fisher

In this special episode of MAV’s Coffee Clarity, we welcome the legendary Ira Joe Fisher—broadcaster, poet, and master storyteller. With a career spanning television, radio, and the written word, Ira brings his signature warmth and wit to the conversation, sharing insights on the power of storytelling, the beauty of language, and the role clarity plays in communication and life.
We dive into his journey from broadcasting to poetry, exploring how words shape our experiences and the connections we build with others. Ira reflects on memorable moments from his career, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and why embracing curiosity and authenticity leads to a more meaningful life.
Whether you’re a lover of words, a fan of broadcasting, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and heartfelt reflections. So grab your coffee, get comfortable, and join us for a conversation as rich and fulfilling as a perfectly brewed cup.
=========✨ "I never thought of it as a job, I always thought of it as an adventure." - Ira Joe Fisher 
Key Beans:
You can always recover. We keep moving and growing no matter the circumstances. 
Forget perfection—it doesn’t exist. Focus on getting better, little by little.
When you’re speaking in front of a crowd, talk like you’re having a one-on-one conversation. Make it feel personal.
Stay Connected:
🌎 Learn more: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com
📩 Subscribe to the Biweekly Brew: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com
📸 Follow on Instagram: @mavscoffeeclarity
🎥 YouTube: @MavsCoffeeClarity
📰 Substack: @denisedigrigoli
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Find Ira Joe Fisher's Book, The Birth of Snow here: https://www.amazon.com/Birth-Snow-Ira-Joe-Fisher/dp/B0DPR93CMP 
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If you just found me, welcome! And if you're a regular listener, welcome back! This is where I interview fascinating people from all walks of life—entrepreneurs, creatives, performers, athletes—forward-thinking individuals who have found the silver lining in their fiascos and challenges (and can laugh about it!). 💡 It’s business and life hacks—the real beans! Fresh ideas to inspire you and help you #MOVEFORWARD. 🎙️ We’re real. Unedited. Authentic. Like coffee with a friend—conversations and stories you can trust, infused with humor! ⏳ We tape live in short formats—18, 27, or 36 minutes max—because we’ve got stuff to do! #ThankYou #Podcast #MavsCoffeeClarity #MoveForward
 

EP 206: MAV & the Fox - The Art of Creativity, Business, and Compromise

MAV's Coffee Clarity with Denise-this is the Ask MAV & The Fox
Special Episode In this MONTHLY special episode of MAV's Coffee Clarity, Ask MAV & The Fox, we answer your questions…
MAV sits down with Troy—aka The Fox—to tackle a challenge many creative entrepreneurs face: finding the balance between artistic perfection and business efficiency. Inspired by a listener’s question from Boston, where a husband-and-wife woodworking duo struggles with time management and profitability, MAV and The Fox share their own experiences navigating similar tensions. With Troy’s expertise in fine art restoration—where precision and patience are everything—and MAV’s deep understanding of making creativity sustainable, they dive into practical strategies for harmonizing craftsmanship with deadlines, setting realistic expectations, and ensuring passion-driven work doesn’t come at the expense of a thriving business.
Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or somewhere in between, this episode offers insights to help you turn creativity into a career—without losing your mind (or your margins). ☕ Grab your coffee, and let’s get into it!
 
Key Beans:
✨ “Sometimes nourishing creativity means stepping away from it—because you only have so much energy in the battery. To recharge, you need to get out and get away from it.” — Troy Amuso
✅ Authentic client conversations are essential—communicate the entire process, and never make promises you can’t keep.
✅ Work on multiple projects at once to avoid getting stuck on just one.
✅ Know your worth—charge appropriately.
Stay Connected:
🌎 Learn more: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com
📩 Subscribe to the Biweekly Brew: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com
📸 Follow on Instagram: @mavscoffeeclarity
🎥 YouTube: @MavsCoffeeClarity
📰 Substack: @denisedigrigoli
 
If you just found me, welcome! And if you're a regular listener, welcome back! This is where I interview fascinating people from all walks of life—entrepreneurs, creatives, performers, athletes—forward-thinking individuals who have found the silver lining in their fiascos and challenges (and can laugh about it!). 💡 It’s business and life hacks—the real beans! Fresh ideas to inspire you and help you #MOVEFORWARD. 🎙️ We’re real. Unedited. Authentic. Like coffee with a friend—conversations and stories you can trust, infused with humor! ⏳ We tape live in short formats—18, 27, or 36 minutes max—because we’ve got stuff to do! #ThankYou #Podcast #MavsCoffeeClarity #MoveForward

EP 205: The MAV Mindset: Mary Elizabeth Marvin

In this powerful episode of MAV's Coffee Clarity, host Denise DiGrigoli sits down with Mary Elizabeth Marvin to discuss how a life-changing diagnosis—and the prospect of an 11-hour brain surgery—shifted her career goals and perspective on life. Mary Elizabeth opens up about her journey from facing uncertainty to finding purpose, resilience, and clarity in the aftermath of a daunting health challenge. They explore how adversity can become a catalyst for transformation and the surprising ways life's detours can lead to unexpected fulfillment. This is an inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss.
To learn more about Mary Elizabeth Marvin’s work: https://maryelizabethart.com/ 
========="If I can’t paint, pull the plug" - Mary Elizabeth Marvin, when asked before her brain surgery at what point they should not resuscitate. 
Key Beans:
Let your identity be more than just your job, especially when you are young
Operation Bad Penny: Show up for everything, do whatever you need to do. Do not listen to advice from anyone else. 
You are worth your time. 
=========If you just found me, welcome! And if you're a regular listener, welcome back!This is where I interview some fascinating people from all walks, from well-known to not-so-known, entrepreneurs to creatives, performers, and athletes—forward-thinking individuals, people who found the silver lining in their fiascos and life's challenges, and can laugh with it!It’s business & life hacks, the real beans! Fresh ideas to inspire you and help you #move forward.
We’re real! Unedited. Authentic. Like coffee with a friend, conversations, stories you can trust, infused with humor! We tape live in short formats, 18, 27 or 36 minutes max because we have stuff to do!
Thanks for listening, liking, subscribing, and sharing!To find out more about me and the creative services I offer, visit www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com after the show!
Stay connected with me:Visit www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com to learn more about Denise and my consulting services
Engage with Mav’s Coffee Clarity with Denise on Instagram Here: www.instagram.com/mavscoffeeclarity/
Connect with Denise on TikTok Here: www.tiktok.com/@mavscoffeeclaritySubscribe to Denise’s Biweekly Brew newsletter at www.DeniseDiGrigoli.comDon't miss out on these customized resources and opportunities to connect more!#thankyou #podcast #mavcoffeeclaritywithdenise #moveforward #businessintelligence #lifehacks #goodstories
 

EP 204: Time is Ticking, Take it Back!

Feeling like time is slipping away while your goals sit on the back burner? It’s time to stop watching the clock—and start owning it. In this solo episode of MAV’s Coffee Clarity with Denise, we break down the sneaky time robbers that drain your focus and energy. From endless notifications to overcommitting your schedule, she shares practical strategies to reclaim your day and make the next 11 months your most productive yet.
It’s about more than just managing time—it’s about making space for what truly matters.
MAVerick Quotes:
"Self-care isn’t a dirty word. Self-care is important for you to be the best you can be to yourself first, and then to others."
"You put your best effort forward, bring your best self, and then let go of the outcome—because something even better might come in."
5 Key Takeaways:
The 9 biggest time wasters—and how to eliminate them.
Why intentions are more powerful than resolutions.
Let’s not talk about anything negative before lunch.
Prioritizing your day is as essential as brushing your teeth.
Have the courage to take things off your bucket list, too.
Grab your coffee and let’s go!
Stay Connected:
Learn more: www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com
Subscribe to the Biweekly Brew: DeniseDiGrigoli.com
Follow on Instagram: @mavscoffeeclarity
Subscribe on YouTube
Subscribe on Substack
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If you just found me, welcome! And if you're a regular listener, welcome back! This is where I interview some fascinating people from all walks, from well-known to not-so-known, entrepreneurs to creatives, performers, and athletes—forward-thinking individuals, people who found the silver lining in their fiascos and life's challenges, and can laugh with it! It’s business & life hacks, the real beans! Fresh ideas to inspire you and help you #move forward. We’re real! Unedited. Authentic. Like coffee with a friend, conversations, stories you can trust, infused with humor! We tape live in short formats, 18, 27 or 36 minutes max because we have stuff to do! #thankyou #podcast #mavcoffeeclaritywithdenise #moveforward 

EP 203: Mav and the Fox - Behind the Scenes

🦊🎙️ ☕ New Podcast Segment: Ask Mav & the Fox! ☕🎙️🦊
A monthly feature on MAV’s Coffee Clarity with Denise, where wit, wisdom, and just the right dose of Maverick magic meet to tackle your questions about thriving in business, relationships, and life’s ever-surprising twists.
Denise, aka MAV, is a bold, no-nonsense entrepreneur with a passion for helping others move forward with clarity and purpose. Joining her is her husband of 25 years, Troy Amuso—The Fox—a master art conservator, meticulous creative, and the calm to MAV’s caffeinated brilliance. Together, these two MAVericks (or MAVigators) have built businesses, navigated life’s rollercoasters, and redefined what it means to work, play, and grow together—all while keeping it real and (mostly) harmonious.
This is where you come in. On Ask MAV and The Fox, we answer your questions about navigating challenges, staying creative, and building meaningful connections. Whether you’re an entrepreneur chasing your next big idea, a professional at a crossroads, or someone ready to shake things up, we’re here to share relatable stories, our business intel and life hacks, and a touch of MAV charm.
It’s not just about surviving—it’s about thriving with sophistication, creativity, and that signature MAV style that reminds you: clarity is the new currency, and success is in how you show up. So send us your questions, grab your coffee, and let’s MAV forward together.
3 Key Takeaways from Episode 203:  Ask MAV and The Fox
--- Opposites Attract, But Vision Aligns:
MAV’s bold, caffeinated energy meets The Fox’s calm, meticulous precision—and together, they make magic. Success isn’t about being the same; it’s about sharing the same vision and embracing each other’s strengths (even if one irons shirts straight from the dry cleaner). It works because, in our own rights, we’re both MAVericks—or as we like to say, MAVigators—charting unique courses toward shared goals.
--- Pivot Like a Pro:
From running art galleries to perfecting fine art restoration to launching a consulting firm, MAV and The Fox prove that reinvention isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the lifeline of thriving in life and business. Knowing when to shift gears is the Maverick move that keeps you ahead of the curve and prepared for whatever life throws your way.
--- Mindset is the Real MVP:
Whether you're running a business or running on caffeine, everything boils down to mindset. A Maverick mindset embraces challenges, turns failures into stepping stones, and knows that the difference between a valley and a vista is your perspective (and maybe a good espresso).
 
=========If you just found me, welcome! And if you're a regular listener, welcome back!This is where I interview some fascinating people from all walks, from well-known to not-so-known, entrepreneurs to creatives, performers, and athletes—forward-thinking individuals, people who found the silver lining in their fiascos and life's challenges, and can laugh with it!It’s business & life hacks, the real beans! Fresh ideas to inspire you and help you #move forward.
We’re real! Unedited. Authentic. Like coffee with a friend, conversations, stories you can trust, infused with humor! We tape live in short formats, 18, 27 or 36 minutes max because we have stuff to do!
Thanks for listening, liking, subscribing, and sharing!To find out more about me and the creative services I offer, visit www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com after the show!
Stay connected with me:Visit www.DeniseDiGrigoli.com to learn more about Denise and my consulting services
Engage with Mav’s Coffee Clarity with Denise on Instagram Here: www.instagram.com/mavscoffeeclarity/
Connect with Denise on TikTok Here: www.tiktok.com/@mavscoffeeclaritySubscribe to Denise’s Biweekly Brew newsletter at www.DeniseDiGrigoli.comDon't miss out on these customized resources and opportunities to connect more!#thankyou #podcast #mavcoffeeclaritywithdenise #moveforward #businessintelligence #lifehacks #goodstories