167: Meridith Grundei on the Power of “Yes, And”

Meridith Grundei is one of those rare coaches who can turn a room full of anxious adults into confident, grounded speakers using humor, improv, and a sharp understanding of human behavior.

Originally aired: May 2, 2023
This post has been updated and republished as part of rebuilding the Gratitude Geek podcast archive.

In episode 167, we dig into how communication shapes our businesses, our relationships, and the way we show up as leaders. If you’ve ever overthought a presentation, avoided the camera, or wished collaboration felt easier, this one is going to land.

This conversation hits a nerve in the best possible way. Gen X women solopreneurs already juggle enough without feeling tongue-tied every time they need to speak on camera, on stage, or in a meeting.

Revisiting this episode reminded me how much power we unlock when we show up with presence, confidence, and a little improv-fueled curiosity.

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Meet Meridith Grundei

Meridith Grundei is a public speaking and presentation skills coach and the owner of Grundei Coaching, LLC.

With her roots as an award-winning theatre director, producer, and former Second City improv teacher, she brings a rare blend of stagecraft and coaching expertise to entrepreneurs and leaders.

Her work helps her clients communicate clearly, captivate audiences, and present themselves with confidence across every platform.

What This Episode Is About

This episode explores how the “yes, and” mindset can strengthen communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving for entrepreneurs.

We talk about the role of presence, confidence, and adaptability in public speaking, and why showing up with intention matters more than polished perfection.

Meridith shares how improv principles help business owners navigate uncertainty, build better relationships, and become more compelling presenters.

This conversation is especially valuable for Gen X women building brands, leading teams, or expanding visibility without losing authenticity.

Key Takeaways

• Presence beats perfection in communication.
• The “yes, and” mindset fuels collaboration, innovation, and momentum.
• Open-ended questions deepen networking conversations.
• Consistency and gratitude create long-term opportunities and stronger relationships.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 How the “yes, and” mindset sparks creativity, collaboration, and better communication.
15:21 Using “yes, and” to acknowledge perspectives and strengthen conversations.
20:22 Why embracing absurd ideas can unlock better brainstorming.
21:22 The role of persistence and adaptability in shaping workable ideas.
29:37 How Meridith’s TikTok success shows the power of consistent marketing.
35:11 Three ways to open a presentation that instantly engage your audience.
40:43 How gratitude strengthens confidence and presence in public speaking.
41:38 A gratitude practice that helped save a marriage.
43:56 Why gratitude fuels stronger professional relationships.
45:19 Choosing gratitude when reflecting on friendships and seasons of life.
46:17 Meridith’s gratitude for her supportive husband.

Connect with Meridith Grundei

• Grundei Coaching
• @grundeicoaching on TikTok
• @meridithgrundeicoaching on Instagram
• @meridith on LinkedIn
• @grundeicoaching on Youtube

Mentions

• Second City
• iO Theater

Stop Starting Your Presentations the Same Way

Here’s the YouTube version of Meridith’s viral TikTok video on public speaking:

Disclaimer: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase. No added cost to you.

Your Turn

What resonated with you in this conversation? Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram or LinkedIn. Prefer to keep it on the blog? Drop a comment below.

Final Thoughts

Re-listening to this episode reminded me how much clarity and confidence come from keeping things simple, grounded, and human.

Meridith’s approach blends structure with spontaneity, and that’s exactly what Gen X women solopreneurs need as we navigate visibility on our own terms.

If you’ve been overthinking how you show up, this is your permission to experiment, breathe, and move forward.

This episode of Gratitude Geek Podcast is made possible by: SendOutCards

Stay Groovy!