In this touching return to Zuzu: All Grown Up, Lynn Sanders–Founder of Difference Makers Media, award-winning writer, producer, and storytelling strategist–joins Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell to share a new, deeply personal chapter of her journey. Known for empowering others to tell their stories of impact and compassion, Lynn now opens up about her own experience of healing and awakening after a sudden health crisis. Through her signature blend of honesty and heart, Lynn reveals how slowing down, listening inward, and honoring intuition can be as transformative as any story she’s ever told.

In this episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Sal St. George, an award-winning playwright, director, producer, and historian who has spent his life turning laughter into an art form. From interviewing classic legends like Bud Abbott to writing for theater, theme parks, and television, Sal shares incredible stories from a lifetime in entertainment. He reflects on how comedy, creativity, and history intertwine – and how keeping a sense of humor can make life’s journey all the more rewarding.

In this episode, retired New York City firefighter, actor, and author Chris Edwards joins Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell to discuss his experience as one of the first responders on 9/11. Chris shares the tremendous tragedy of that day, along with the hope and resilience he discovered while saving lives. He reflects on the lasting, transformational message he carries and emphasizes the importance of "taking off the blinders", all of which is detailed in his book, Coming Through the Flames: My Life in the FDNY.

In this soulful episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Robert Alexander, founder of Life Rhythms — a unique wellness brand built on the transformative power of sound. Robert’s work goes far beyond music; he crafts personalized audio experiences designed to reflect a person’s emotions, intentions, and inner journey.

This conversation explores the surprising ways music can shift energy, and how one man’s creative gift is helping others find balance and belonging.

In this inspiring episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Jim Boyd, Director of Strategic Growth for Optimist International. With a background that spans 35 years in broadcast journalism, Jim now helps lead one of the world’s most enduring service organizations. He shares the Optimist mission, from empowering youth through global initiatives to building joy in local communities. This conversation shines a light on how optimism, service, and a simple creed can transform lives across generations.

In this insightful episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes and Dr. Chris Brunell welcome Hugh Ballou—a conductor turned leadership strategist and founder of the SynerVision Leadership Foundation. With over 40 years of experience leading choirs and orchestras, Hugh reveals how the principles of music are the same principles that create effective leadership. He shares how leaders can harmonize their vision with their team, build systems that work, and orchestrate excellence in any setting.

In this moving episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes Liz Scott, co-founder of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Liz shares the extraordinary story of her daughter Alex, who-despite battling cancer-set up a simple lemonade stand to help other children like her. What began with a single pitcher of lemonade has grown into a nationwide movement funding pediatric cancer research, supporting families, and inspiring millions. This heartfelt conversation celebrates Alex’s lasting legacy and the power of one child’s determination to change the world.

In this powerful episode of Zuzu: All Grown Up, Karolyn Grimes welcomes playwright Paul Donnelly, a close friend of journalist Wendi Winters, one of the five victims of the 2018 Capital Gazette newsroom shooting. Paul reflects on Wendi’s activism, community leadership, and passion for journalism, while also honoring the extraordinary courage she showed in her final moments. This moving tribute ensures Wendi Winters is remembered not only for her bravery, but for the meaningful life she lived and the impact she left behind.