The “Why” Behind Glaze and Grit
The Why:
Glaze and Grit’s mission is to drive inclusion and community to let others know they are seen, heard, and not alone in their journey – however that may look. This is done through the means of an oral narrative - a podcast, where Fargo-Moorhead area business owners, leaders, advocates, visionaries, and those lifting up our community in their own beautiful way share their journey.
We’ve all been there – unsure if we are making an impact in our life, if we are on the right path. Too often we measure our progress against someone else’s end result. To be able to come alongside one in their journey is a privilege – and that’s why these guest conversations are essential to the Fargo-Moorhead area community: to let others know they are not alone in their journey.
In the words of famed author Madeline L’Engle (1993), “Stories make us more alive, more human, more courageous, more loving.”
The Impact:
Research shows stories have the ability to create community and encourage understanding. They have the potential to help people connect, develop genuine understanding, and unite around common experiences.
It has been my privilege connecting with the guests on Glaze and Grit and share their personal story. These guests have shared the honest and authentic parts of themselves to help support others in their journey. From the resilience of receiving a cancer diagnosis, to the vulnerability of coming out as a gay man, to the life-threatening impact of postpartum depression, and losing one’s mom due to suicide.
I see Glaze and Grit as a repository showcasing these profound journeys. They become and are part of the heritage of the Fargo-Moorhead area community.
These conversations provide resilience, strength, and connection to leave the Fargo-Moorhead area community better and stronger.
The Goals:
Hope and purpose that no one should feel alone in their journey. That community members in the Fargo-Moorhead area are seen, loved, and valued.
Inclusion and connection to break down misperceptions and stereotypes that inhibit people from working and coming together. A felt unity with each other at some level, even if they might disagree on the surface.
Inspiration and encouragement to break out of debilitating thoughts and comfort zones that may be holding one back from achieving their dreams or goals.
Let’s create conversations, transform old narratives, and craft a better story for the Fargo-Moorhead area community.
What’s Next? I would love for you to come alongside me in this journey. Please reach out if you know of an incredible and talented community member whose story needs to be shared. Being a supporter of local businesses and nonprofits, if you are interested in partnering or advertising with Glaze and Grit, please reach out to glazeandgrit@gmail.com.
XO, Jessi
