In this episode, Sierra shares snacks she brought back from Chile while Michael-Thomas gives his honest reactions in a live taste test. From dulce de leche to chocolate and banana gummies, they explore a range of flavors and textures while comparing them to familiar favorites.

The conversation also shifts to Sierra’s experience with Chilean cuisine—what she tried, what stood out, and how food played a role in her travel experience.

It’s a fun, lighthearted episode about food, culture, and the joy of trying something new.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Sierra takes us inside her unforgettable backpacking trip through Torres del Paine National Park—sharing the highs, the challenges, and the moments that completely changed her perspective.

From intense hiking and unexpected travel mishaps to breathtaking sunrises and powerful life lessons, this episode explores what it really means to step outside your comfort zone.

If you’ve ever dreamed of an adventure like this—or just love a great story—this one’s for you. 🇨🇱🥾

Torres del Paine National Park - https://www.torresdelpaine.com

Guanaco - South American camelid - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guanaco

La Tom - Chilean airline - https://www.latam.com

Salón 104 Hendersonville - https://www.instagram.com/salon104hvl/

The CrumBum - https://www.instagram.com/the.crumbum/

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Fear is weird. Phobias are weirder. And test anxiety? Way more common than you think.

In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas explore personal fears, phobias, and the science behind why our brains react the way they do. Through stories, humor, and a phobia trivia game, they unpack the difference between everyday fears and true phobias.

The conversation then turns to test anxiety—what causes it, how it shows up physically and emotionally, and strategies to manage it effectively. From breathing techniques to mindset shifts and learning strategies, this episode offers both insight and practical tools for anyone navigating anxiety in academic settings.

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Why do people resist change so strongly?

In this episode of really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we unpack the phrase everyone has heard at some point: “That’s just the way we’ve always done it.” From food habits and nostalgia to education and leadership, we explore why challenging the status quo can feel uncomfortable — and why it’s often necessary for growth.

Along the way, we talk about how COVID forced adaptation in schools and workplaces, the role educators play in leading change, and why building trust with students matters more than ever. The conversation also dives into therapy, fear of failure, intentional living, and how staying connected to others helps us navigate life’s transitions.

Change isn’t always easy — but leaning into it can lead to deeper self-awareness, stronger relationships, and a more intentional life.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

Before GPS was built into every phone and car, getting somewhere new required a very different set of skills. In this episode of really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas, we take a nostalgic trip back to the days of paper maps, road atlases, and printed MapQuest directions.

We talk about how weather can shape our routines, how people navigated before smartphones, and why traditional navigation skills still matter today. From reading map legends and understanding topography to knowing the difference between latitude and longitude, we explore the tools and knowledge that once helped people find their way.

Along the way we share stories about questionable shortcuts, getting lost, and the anxiety (or freedom) that comes with navigating without GPS. We also play a fun game about navigation terms and discuss how even birds like the Indigo Bunting use celestial navigation.

As technology continues to change the way we travel and communicate, we ask an important question: have we gained convenience at the cost of losing our sense of direction?

Join us for a fun and thoughtful conversation about maps, navigation, technology, and the balance between modern convenience and traditional life skills.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

In this episode, Michael-Thomas and Sierra dive into childhood nostalgia, snow days, book recommendations, and the complicated pressure behind choosing a career path.

From marine biologist dreams and architect aspirations to the influence of media and the reality of changing majors, this conversation explores how our professional lives evolve — and why that’s completely normal.

We talk about vocational training, societal expectations, career pivots, and finding purpose in unexpected places.

If you’ve ever felt uncertain about your future, this episode is your reminder: it’s okay to change your mind.

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

“Calm down.”

Few phrases are more triggering — or more dismissive.

In this episode, Sierra and Michael-Thomas explore why being told to calm down can feel invalidating and why it often makes situations worse. They discuss emotional triggers, tone policing, hormones, relationship dynamics, and the importance of empathy in communication.

Instead of dismissing emotions, what if we got curious about them?

This episode blends humor, vulnerability, and practical insight as they unpack how to respond to heightened emotions in healthier ways — and what to say instead.

🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.

We Really Need to Talk About Grocery Store Behaviors

Why can we explore space… but not return a shopping cart?

In this episode, we unpack the unspoken rules of the grocery store — from aisle blocking and abandoned perishables to the chaos of self-checkout and the moral test that is returning your cart.

Somehow we detour into space exploration, ocean fears, warehouse clubs, and the psychology behind why milk is always in the back.

We also talk about:

• Why grocery store etiquette actually matters
• Self-checkout survival skills
• Sample station strategy
• Supporting local butchers and small businesses
• The subtle kindness that makes shopping better for everyone

If we can map Mars, we can handle the produce section.

Let’s talk about it.

🎥 Watch the full video episodes on YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC

Executive Producers: Sierra Chapman & M. Thomas Griffith

Production Assistance: DCB Productions

Editing: Sierra Chapman

Artwork: M. Thomas Griffith

Music: AlexGuz via Pixabay.com

Email: info.reallypod@gmail.com

YouTube: https://bit.ly/reallypod

Instagram: @really_thepod

Facebook at Really... with Sierra & Michael-Thomas

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/reallythepod

TikTok @really_thepodcast

Really The Pod Shop go to reallypodshop.myshopify.com

© 2026 GrifChap Studio, LLC. All rights reserved. really… with Sierra & Michael-Thomas is produced by GrifChap Studio, LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts Sierra, Michael-Thomas, and their guests are their own and do not reflect those of their employers, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and Northeast State Community College, respectively.