How can we hold both joy and struggle—and still feel grateful? In this episode of Chasing Brighter, hosts Jessica Colarco and Kelly discuss the importance of finding gratitude amidst life's chaos. They explore how gratitude can shift our focus from negativity to appreciation, emphasizing that it doesn't erase pain but rather widens our perspective. The conversation includes personal anecdotes, practical tips for cultivating gratitude, and the significance of embracing both joy and struggle in our lives. The hosts encourage listeners to practice gratitude daily, highlighting its role in emotional flexibility and personal growth.   Inside This Conversation:  Gratitude shifts our focus from what's missing to what's meaningful. Our brains are wired to scan for danger, leading to negativity bias. Gratitude doesn't erase pain; it widens our perspective. Genuine gratitude acknowledges both the good and the hard. Practicing gratitude can lead to biological changes in our brain. Finding gratitude in small moments can help us feel more content. Gratitude is a practice that can be developed over time. It's important to balance gratitude with acknowledging our struggles. Gratitude can be cultivated through simple daily practices. Embracing imperfections allows for growth and grace.   Chapters 00:00 Embracing Gratitude in Chaos 05:07 The Balance of Gratitude and Pain 10:04 Practical Ways to Cultivate Gratitude 15:00 Micro Moments of Gratitude 18:44 Reframing Daily Annoyances 21:00 NEWCHAPTER gratitude, grace, emotional flexibility, positivity, mindfulness, parenting, self-care, mental health, personal growth, resilience Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter

Can high-achieving women really have it all—or are we burning out trying to prove we can? In this episode of Superwoman Diaries, Jessica Colarco interviews Sarah Bolor, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Say It Mental Health. Sarah specializes in helping high achieving women overcome burnout, perfectionism, and people pleasing. The conversation explores Sarah's journey into social work, her experiences with grief, and the challenges faced by high achieving women in balancing personal and professional lives. They discuss strategies for self-care, the importance of setting boundaries, and the impact of societal expectations on women's mental health. Sarah shares her insights on navigating motherhood while maintaining a career and emphasizes the need for self-compassion and positive self-talk. Inside This Conversation: Sarah Bolor helps high achieving women break free from burnout. The importance of setting boundaries for mental health. Grief can be supported through community and professional help. High achieving women often struggle with perfectionism and people pleasing. Self-worth is often tied to achievements for high achieving women. Finding balance is more about aligning values than achieving equality. Daily self-talk can significantly impact mental health. It's okay to prioritize personal time and self-care. Women are often expected to manage the mental load at home. Professional development can coexist with personal enjoyment in reading. The Fourth Wing Series Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter Want to Learn More About Sarah? Visit her website.  Visit her on Instagram.  What Sarah is reading: The Signs by Dr. Tara Swart. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Ballour and Her Mission03:29 Sarah's Journey into Social Work06:18 Transitioning to Private Practice09:11 Experiences Shaping Perspectives in Social Work11:57 Navigating Parenthood and Professional Life15:02 Grief and Its Impact on Personal and Professional Life17:43 The High Achieving Woman: Challenges and Dynamics20:23 Strategies for Overcoming Overwhelm23:30 Daily Routines and Self-Care Practices24:31 The Addictive Nature of Tennis26:39 Finding Personal Time Through Sports29:51 The Burden of Being a 'Good Girl'31:32 Raising Responsible Children32:46 The Importance of Self-Talk34:21 Balancing Professional Development and Leisure Reading37:52 The Impact of TV Series on Emotional Well-being41:25 Connecting with Sarah Bolor, LCSW   mental health, high achieving women, burnout, perfectionism, social work, grief, self-care, boundaries, parenting, therapy

What if true confidence isn’t something you build—but something you rediscover within yourself? In this episode, Jessica and Kelly explore the theme of building confidence through self-connection, particularly in midlife. They discuss the importance of introspection, recognizing disconnection from oneself, and the core practices that can help individuals reconnect with their values and desires. The conversation emphasizes that true confidence comes from within and is about being authentic and unapologetically oneself. They also provide practical tips for listeners to cultivate self-connection and confidence in their daily lives. Inside This Conversation: Confidence is built through self-connection and introspection. Midlife is a time for rediscovering who you are. True confidence comes from within, not external validation. Recognizing disconnection from oneself is crucial for growth. Practices like journaling and mindfulness can enhance self-connection. Honoring your values is essential for building confidence. Celebrating small wins helps reinforce self-acceptance. Setting boundaries is a form of self-connection. Doubt is a natural part of the journey to confidence. Being unapologetically you is about being at home with yourself. Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter books, podcasts, audiobooks, TV shows, makeup, recommendations, trends, reading, entertainment, parenting, midlife, trending, fall Chapters 00:00 Building Confidence Through Self-Connection07:16 Understanding Confidence vs. Self-Esteem07:18 Signs of Disconnection from Self11:16 Core Practices for Reconnecting with Yourself15:17 Celebrating Wins and Setting Boundaries   confidence, self-connection, midlife, personal growth, introspection, values, authenticity, self-awareness, empowerment, self-acceptance

Why is finding a good handyman harder than picking the perfect outfit? In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly discuss various topics ranging from personal updates to home improvement challenges. They share experiences with handyman services, the importance of cutting out the middleman in home repairs, and navigating insurance claims. The conversation also touches on personal style, particularly the trend of matching sets in fashion, and the significance of finding reliable help for home maintenance. Inside This Conversation: Home improvement can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Cutting out the middleman can save money and improve service quality. Finding a reliable handyman is crucial for home maintenance. Insurance claims can complicate home repairs but are sometimes necessary. Matching sets in fashion can elevate personal style and confidence. Asking for recommendations can lead to finding great service providers. Personal updates can provide insight into everyday challenges and solutions. Fashion trends can influence personal choices and self-expression. Home repairs often require patience and persistence.Building a network of trusted professionals can ease home management burdens. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates03:42 Home Renovation Challenges and Experiences06:28 Finding Reliable Handyman Services09:19 Insurance and Home Repairs12:13 Fashion Trends and Personal Style   home improvement, handyman services, insurance claims, personal style, home repairs, DIY, home renovation, fashion, lifestyle, home maintenance

Are you living for others’ approval—or finally stepping into your own power? In this episode of Chasing Brighter, Jessica Colarco and Kelly discuss the journey from being a people pleaser to embracing personal power and self-worth. They explore the roots of people pleasing, its impact on mental health, and the importance of setting boundaries. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-reflection and the practice of honoring one's own needs to foster healthier relationships and a more authentic life.   Inside This Conversation: People pleasing often stems from a desire for approval and fear of rejection. Setting boundaries is essential for self-respect and mental health. Resentment can be a significant consequence of people pleasing. Recognizing the cost of people pleasing can lead to personal growth. Empathy is valuable, but it shouldn't come at the expense of self-worth. Practicing self-care and self-acceptance is crucial for emotional well-being. It's important to pause and reflect before automatically saying yes to others. Boundaries can disrupt patterns of self-sacrifice and promote healthier relationships. Owning your worth allows for authenticity and freedom in relationships. Small acts of self-respect can lead to significant changes in behavior. Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter Chapters 00:00 From People Pleasing to Power05:51 Understanding People Pleasing10:12 The Roots of People Pleasing14:42 Setting Boundaries for Self-Respect19:27 The Impact of Boundaries on Relationships22:18 Reflection and Action Steps people pleasing, self-worth, boundaries, empowerment, self-respect, confidence, personal growth, emotional health, relationships, authenticity

Have you ever felt that losing someone you love changed the way you see life? In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly explore the themes of grief, loss, and the importance of connection with family and loved ones. They share personal experiences of losing family members and how these events have shaped their perspectives on life and relationships. The discussion emphasizes the need to prioritize connections, create meaningful moments, and maintain a positive mindset, especially in the face of adversity. They reflect on the legacy of loved ones and the importance of living in gratitude.   Our episodes with Safia Lyon: Healing with Safia Lyon Staying Healthy and Happy During the Holidays with Safia Lyon Rejuvenation & Preparation for the Colder Months Inside This Conversation: A victim mindset can hinder personal growth. Connection with loved ones is crucial during grief. Celebrating the lives of those lost can aid healing. Quality time with family is more important than quantity. Maintaining connections requires effort and intention Grief can lead to a reevaluation of priorities. Creating moments with family can be simple and meaningful. Living in gratitude can shift your perspective. Love and support from family can foster resilience. Legacy of loved ones can inspire and motivate us.  Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter Chapters 00:00 Navigating Grief and Loss03:30 The Importance of Connection06:06 Reprioritizing Family Relationships08:27 Creating Meaningful Moments11:19 Living in Gratitude and Mindset Shift grief, loss, family, connection, growth mindset, victim mentality, relationships, healing, legacy, love  

Welcome to Healing Is My Hobby, the new podcast from Jessica Colarco, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and co-host of Chasing Brighter. In this introductory episode, Jessica shares the inspiration behind the show — blending her 19 years of clinical experience with her personal healing journey. This podcast is your space to explore what healing really looks like in everyday life — from managing stress and burnout to tending to grief, relationships, and self-worth. Through storytelling, science, and soulful practice, Jessica invites you to pause, breathe, and discover what heals you. 🧠 What to Expect from the Show Each episode is a mix of insight, reflection, and practice designed to help you understand yourself more deeply and build emotional resilience. Here’s what you’ll find inside: 🧘 The Healing Lab: Real-world experiments with healing modalities like sound baths, salt caves, and breathwork — complete with Jessica’s honest takeaways. 💪 Therapy Is My Cardio: Short, practical tools for your mental fitness — techniques you can use right away to calm your mind and strengthen emotional health. 💭 This Might Be a Trauma Response: Thoughtful breakdowns of everyday patterns like overthinking, people-pleasing, and perfectionism — all viewed through a trauma-informed lens. 🌿 Core Themes Stress & Burnout Grief & Healing Self-Worth & Relationships Resilience & Mindfulness Nervous System Regulation Each month focuses on a theme — starting with stress and how to tend to it rather than fight it. 💖 Jessica’s Message “Healing isn’t about becoming someone new — it’s about coming home to yourself.” Jessica’s mission is to help you understand that healing isn’t a straight line or a perfect formula — it’s a lifelong practice of awareness, compassion, and curiosity. 🔗 Join the Journey Listen to Healing Is My Hobby wherever you get your podcasts, or visit healingismyhobby.com for links and resources.Follow along on Instagram and YouTube for journaling prompts, guided practices, and behind-the-scenes healing experiments.

Could what you wear actually change how you feel about yourself? In this episode, Jessica and Kelly explore the profound connection between fashion and confidence, discussing how clothing choices can influence emotions, behavior, and self-perception. They introduce the concept of 'dopamine dressing,' emphasizing the psychological effects of what we wear and how it can empower us. The conversation encourages listeners to be intentional with their wardrobe, using fashion as a tool for self-expression and mental wellness. Inside This Conversation: Fashion is a powerful tool for building confidence. Dopamine dressing can enhance our mood and energy. Colors and textures in clothing influence our emotions. Wearing outfits that align with our aspirations boosts confidence. Intentional wardrobe choices can lead to empowerment. Fashion can be a form of self-care and mental wellness. Clothing choices send signals that influence our behavior. Sharing outfits with friends can enhance the experience of dressing. Experimenting with different styles can lead to self-discovery. Every day is an opportunity to express our best selves through fashion.   Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter Chapters 00:00 The Power of Fashion and Confidence11:59 Dopamine Dressing and Emotional Impact15:40 Fashion as a Tool for Empowerment   fashion, confidence, dopamine dressing, self-expression, empowerment, emotional impact, enclothed cognition, wardrobe, mental wellness, personal style

In this engaging conversation, Jessica and Kelly explore various themes surrounding beauty, fitness, and self-care. They discuss their personal beauty routines, the importance of community in fitness, and the benefits of different workout options, including Orange Theory and the rising trend of weighted vests. The conversation highlights the significance of finding what works for individual lifestyles and the evolving trends in fitness and nutrition. Inside This Conversation:  Self-care routines can boost confidence and well-being. Community support in fitness can enhance motivation. Exploring different workout options can lead to better results. Weighted vests are gaining popularity for their health benefits. Finding accountability in fitness is crucial for consistency. Natural makeup looks are trending in beauty. Sunscreen education is important for skin health. Walking is an effective and accessible form of exercise. Trends in fitness often cycle back to previous methods. It's essential to meet yourself where you're at in fitness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Grooming Rituals03:38 Makeup Tips and Trends06:20 Fitness Journeys and New Friendships09:05 Exploring Orange Theory and Group Workouts11:59 Weight Training and Muscle Building14:49 The Rise of Weighted Vests17:37 Trends in Fitness and Nutrition20:15 Conclusion and Personal Reflections22:16 NEWCHAPTER   Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter beauty, self-care, fitness, community, Orange Theory, weighted vests, nutrition, trends, exercise, health

How can small acts of bravery help you reconnect with joy and purpose? In this episode of Chasing Brighter, Jessica Colarco and Kelly discuss the multifaceted nature of fear and courage. They explore how fear can be a signal for growth rather than a barrier, emphasizing the importance of embracing vulnerability and taking small steps toward connection, joy, and purpose. The conversation highlights the significance of social connections, the courage to pursue hobbies, and the alignment of choices with personal values to lead a fulfilling life. Inside This Conversation: Fear is a signal for growth, not a stop sign. Courage can manifest in small, daily moments. Building social connections requires vulnerability and courage. Volunteering is an effective way to connect with others. Joy and hobbies are essential for a fulfilling life. Living with purpose involves aligning choices with values. Taking risks is necessary for personal growth. Small steps can lead to significant changes in life. Authenticity attracts connections and friendships. Fear often shows up in various aspects of life, including friendships and hobbies. Chapters 00:00 Embracing Fear as a Signal for Growth04:40 Courage in Daily Life and Social Connections08:44 Finding Courage in Hobbies and Joy12:33 Living with Purpose and Aligning Values15:43 Reflection and Taking Small Steps Through Fear Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter fear, courage, growth, joy, purpose, connection, vulnerability, hobbies, authenticity, social connections

From oatmeal hacks to outfit inspo — are you ready to elevate your fall? In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly discuss their love for oatmeal, share tips on customizing Starbucks oatmeal, and transition into a lively discussion about fall fashion. They explore the concept of a capsule wardrobe, the importance of investment pieces versus budget finds, and how to maintain personal style amidst ever-changing trends. The conversation is filled with practical fashion advice, personal anecdotes, and a light-hearted approach to style. Inside This Conversation: Oatmeal customization at Starbucks is essential for a better experience. Fall fashion can be simplified with a capsule wardrobe approach. Investing in quality denim and jackets is crucial for a stylish wardrobe. Trends can be overwhelming; focus on personal style instead.Mindful shopping helps distinguish between impulse buys and true needs. Layering and versatile pieces are key for fall outfits. Wide-leg jeans are making a comeback, but personal comfort is paramount. Blazers can refresh any outfit and should be chosen wisely. Track pants can be both stylish and comfortable for various occasions. Finding inspiration from trusted sources can help navigate fashion trends. Dressy Look Yoga Pant here. Chapters 00:00 Oatmeal Obsession02:29 Fall Fashion Trends05:27 Capsule Wardrobe Essentials09:24 Investment vs. Budget Fashion12:32 Finding Personal Style15:06 NEWCHAPTER   Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter   oatmeal, Starbucks, fall fashion, capsule wardrobe, denim, investment pieces, personal style, trends, fashion tips, style advice  

In this episode of Chasing Brighter, Jessica Colarco and Kelly explore the profound impact of our inner dialogue on our confidence and decision-making. They discuss how our thoughts can either empower or hinder us, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and rewriting negative narratives. The conversation provides practical tools for identifying self-critical thoughts, flipping the script to more positive affirmations, and celebrating personal achievements. The episode concludes with a reflection exercise aimed at fostering self-awareness and encouraging listeners to take charge of their inner dialogue. Inside This Conversation: Our inner dialogue shapes every choice we make. We can rewrite outdated scripts that hold us back. Recognizing negative thoughts is the first step to change. Celebrating small wins boosts our confidence. Naming our inner critic helps create distance from negative thoughts. Flipping the script can transform self-defeating language. Keeping a record of past successes reinforces self-worth. Confidence can manifest in everyday actions.Asking for what we want is a sign of confidence. We have the power to change our narrative.  Chapters 00:00 The Power of Inner Dialogue03:15 Identifying and Rewriting Negative Scripts06:16 Tools for Shifting Your Narrative08:54 Building Confidence Through Self-Reflection11:40 Practical Applications of Confidence in Daily Life14:37 Reflection and Empowerment Exercises   Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter   inner dialogue, confidence code, self-talk, cognitive behavioral therapy, rewriting narratives, personal growth, self-empowerment, mental health, positive affirmations, self-awareness

In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly explore various themes surrounding health, wellness, and the dynamics of friendships, particularly as they navigate parenting and personal growth. They discuss the impact of alcohol on health, the importance of reconnecting with old friends, and the evolving nature of friendships as children grow older. The conversation emphasizes the significance of maintaining connections and being open to new friendships. Key Takeaways: Jessica shares her experience with a cold and food choices.Kelly discusses her changing relationship with alcohol as she approaches perimenopause.The importance of reconnecting with old friends is highlighted through Kelly's story.Friendships can shift as children grow older and become more independent.Maintaining friendships outside of parenting circles is essential for personal growth.The conversation touches on the challenges of meeting new people as adults.Jessica emphasizes the need to be open to new friendships.Kelly reflects on the dynamics of friendships during high school.The impact of alcohol on health and wellness is discussed.The importance of being mindful about drinking and its effects on sleep.  Chapters 00:00 Navigating Health and Nutrition Choices03:35 Alcohol and Its Effects on Health06:16 Reconnecting with Old Friends11:42 The Dynamics of Friendships in Parenting19:13 The Importance of New Connections   health, wellness, alcohol, friendships, parenting, perimenopause, connections, nutrition, social dynamics, personal growth

Are you choosing peace over pressure, or are you letting misaligned commitments drain your energy? Jessica and Kelly explore the importance of aligning one's life with personal values to achieve fulfillment and peace. They discuss the symptoms of living out of alignment, the significance of identifying core values, and practical steps to realign life with those values. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional living and making small adjustments to create a life that feels authentic and meaningful. Inside This Conversation: Living out of alignment can cause anxiety and exhaustion. Values serve as an internal compass for decision-making. Identifying core values is essential for personal fulfillment. Auditing your time helps reveal misalignments with values. Small shifts can lead to significant changes in life satisfaction. Reclaiming time for rest and creativity is crucial. Intentional living requires honest self-reflection. Alignment helps in choosing peace over pressure. It's important to prioritize what truly matters in life. Your calendar should reflect your values, not just obligations. Chapters 00:00 Realigning Life with Values03:08 Understanding Values and Their Importance05:51 Identifying Core Values08:23 Auditing Your Time10:52 Making Small Adjustments for Alignment13:39 Choosing Peace Over Pressure Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter alignment, values, personal growth, mindfulness, intentional living, self-discovery, emotional well-being, life fulfillment, authenticity, time management

What does it really take for women to break free from societal expectations and build businesses—and lives—that feel authentic and sustainable? Kassidy Owen, Founder & CEO of Kassidy Lynne Social Media Management, joins Jessica in a discussion that addresses various themes surrounding podcast production, business motivation, societal programming, and the evolving role of women in leadership. They emphasizes the importance of resilience in business, the impact of societal expectations on women, and the need for community support. The discussion also touches on the differences between social media platforms, the significance of understanding one's audience, and the balance between work and personal life. Kassidy shares insights on the creative process, client expectations, and the importance of intentional growth in business. Inside This Conversation: Resilience is key; failure only happens if you stop trying. Understanding societal programming is essential for empathy. Feminine energy is becoming more prominent in leadership roles. Client expectations can create unnecessary pressure. Overcoming self-doubt is vital for podcasting success. Intentional interviewing fosters community and connection. Creative freedom is important, but professional standards matter. Digital nomadism requires establishing a routine. Family support enhances the travel experience. Want to find out more about Kassidy Owen? kassidylynnesocial.com kassidylynnesocial@gmail.com Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn The In Between Podcast Chapters 00:00 The Role of Podcast Production05:59 Understanding Societal Programming10:07 Client Expectations and Work Mindset14:06 Intentional Interviewing and Community Building17:45 Digital Nomadism and Routine21:46 Tailoring Services to Client Needs26:01 Authenticity in Social Media29:05 Understanding Audience Engagement33:00 Targeting the Right Audience36:17 The Role of Women in Business38:18 Balancing Work and Family Life39:18 Intentional Growth in Business41:27 The Impact of Women-Owned Businesses42:55 Navigating Guilt in Work-Life Balance44:09 The Importance of Community Support45:45 The Labor Behind Success47:45 Understanding Stress and Self-Care49:43 Podcasting and Content Consumption51:46 Therapeutic Insights on Media Consumption52:16 Connecting with Cassidy Owen Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter   podcast production, business motivation, societal programming, feminine leadership, client expectations, self-doubt, community building, social media trends, digital nomadism, women in business

What if that ‘silly dream’ you keep pushing aside is actually pointing you toward your purpose?  In this episode, Jessica and Kelly explore the significance of pursuing dreams and passions, emphasizing that what may seem like a silly dream could be a breadcrumb leading to something greater. They discuss the differences between hobbies, side hustles, and soul work, and how to navigate the fear of failure that often holds people back. The conversation provides practical steps for turning passion into purpose, encouraging listeners to take small, manageable steps towards their dreams while embracing the journey of personal growth. Inside this conversation:  Dreams can lead to greater paths than we realize. Not all passions need to become businesses. Fear of failure often silences our dreams. Every successful person has faced challenges. Courage is more important than confidence. Small steps can create momentum and confidence. Use anxiety as data to inform your decisions. Alignment with values reduces anxiety. Slow growth is still growth. Exploring passions can lead to deeper connections. Chapters 00:00 Dreams and Their Significance03:15 Hobbies, Side Hustles, and Soul Work05:52 Overcoming Fear and Judgment08:31 Practical Steps to Turn Passion into Purpose11:24 Embracing the Journey and Taking Action Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter dreams, passion, purpose, side hustle, fear of failure, creativity, self-expression, personal growth, entrepreneurship, courage

What’s keeping you inspired and entertained this season? In this lively catch-up episode of Chasing Brighter, Jessica and Kelly dive into what’s been inspiring and entertaining them lately. From post-apocalyptic trilogies and heartwarming romance reads to true crime podcasts, Netflix binges, and midlife makeup favorites, the conversation is a blend of book recommendations, wellness reflections, and a little pop culture fun. Whether you’re looking for your next great read, a binge-worthy podcast, or beauty products that actually deliver, this episode is packed with fresh finds and thoughtful insights. Our Fall Favorites:  Book Highlights: The Traveler Trilogy by John Twelve Hawks — tech surveillance themes. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab — fantasy meets timeless love. Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez — romance with depth (panic disorder, trauma, dementia). Finding Grace and Girl in Pieces — emotional, grief and mental health journeys. The Many Lives of Mama Love by Laura Love Hardin — powerful memoir. The Weirdies (audiobooks for kids) — narrated by Kate Winslet & Helena Bonham Carter. Why Romance Novels Help Anxiety: The predictability of “happily ever after” endings can soothe stress and provide comfort. Podcasts: The Binge (true crime/scammers), Tara Brach for mindfulness, Tumble & But Why for family listening. Shows & Comedy: Leanne Morgan’s Netflix special, Sirens, Too Much, Suits, Wednesday. Beauty Finds: Rare Beauty mascara & lip gloss (Selena Gomez), peel-off lip stain, Jones Road Miracle Balm, and the ongoing hunt for good eyeshadow. Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter books, podcasts, audiobooks, TV shows, makeup, recommendations, trends, reading, entertainment, parenting, midlife, trending, fall 

Ever found yourself saying, “I don’t even know what I like anymore”? You’re not alone. Between careers, caregiving, endless checklists, and the constant pull to keep everyone else afloat, it’s easy to lose touch with the things that once brought you joy. In this heartfelt episode of Chasing Brighter, we’re diving into what happens when we forget what we love—and how to find our way back. Joy isn’t frivolous, it’s fuel. It’s the spark that helps regulate your nervous system, builds resilience, and reminds you that you’re more than just your responsibilities. ✨ We’ll talk about: How anxiety, people-pleasing, and parenting can drown out your inner voice Why joy isn’t indulgent—it’s essential for your well-being Simple ways to reconnect: a “passion audit,” exploring without pressure, and prioritizing play over perfection How even 10 minutes of joy a day can shift your mood, energy, and outlook 💡 Reflection Prompt: What’s one thing you used to love that you haven’t done in years? What’s stopping you from trying it this week? If you’ve been feeling stuck, burned out, or a little disconnected from yourself, this episode is your reminder: you don’t have to wait for life to calm down to start living again. Connect With Us: 🌐 Dive deeper on our blog post ChasingBrighter.com  📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Get our Newsletter!! Newsletter - Chasing Brighter finding purpose, rediscovering joy, passion to paycheck, aligning with values, midlife reinvention, chasing meaning not productivity, how to find joy again, live with purpose, passion projects midlife, values-driven living

Keywords parenting, school routines, college applications, teenage independence, emotional regulation, extracurricular activities, communication, self-care Summary In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly discuss their experiences with parenting, focusing on the challenges and joys of managing school routines, college applications, and the emotional dynamics of raising teenagers. They share insights on preparing their children for the real world, balancing extracurricular activities, and navigating the complexities of teenage independence and communication. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-care for parents as they support their children through these transitions. Takeaways Jessica is excited about her new creative studio.Kelly is adjusting to a new routine with her kids.Both are navigating the challenges of school and college applications.They discuss the importance of preparing kids for real-world situations.Extracurricular activities play a significant role in their children's lives.Teenage transitions can be complex and require understanding.Communication strategies are essential for managing teen emotions.Self-care is crucial for parents during these busy times.They reflect on the differences in parenting their first and subsequent children.The conversation highlights the importance of emotional regulation in parenting. Titles Navigating Parenting ChallengesThe High School Journey: Insights and Experiences Sound bites "I'm in my new creative studio.""It's all so interesting.""I want to write a book called Self Soothe." Chapters 00:00 Setting the Scene: New Beginnings03:01 Navigating School Routines and Challenges05:49 Understanding Teenagers: The Transition to Independence08:33 Extracurricular Activities: Balancing Sports and Academics09:12 Coping with Teen Emotions: Strategies for Parents11:12 Cultural Differences in Education: Holding Kids Back13:58 Self-Care and Emotional Regulation for Parents

Keywords purpose, fulfillment, meaning, personal growth, emotional triggers, curiosity, self-reflection, life transitions, passion projects, intentional living Summary In this episode, Jessica and Kelly discuss the concept of purpose as a practice rather than a destination. They explore how to reconnect with one's purpose through reflection on joyful moments, identifying emotional triggers, and following curiosity. The conversation emphasizes that true purpose is rooted in meaning and fulfillment, rather than productivity, and encourages listeners to live with intention and explore their passions. Takeaways Purpose is built, not found.True purpose is about meaning, not productivity.Reflect on joyful moments to reconnect with purpose.Identify what breaks your heart to find your passion.Follow curiosity to discover new interests.Passion doesn't have to be tied to your job.Reclaiming purpose involves many small decisions.Living with intention is key to fulfillment.Explore side projects that ignite your passion.Consider what you loved to do as a child. Sound bites "Follow curiosity, not pressure.""Passion doesn't need to be productive.""What did 10-year-old you love to do?" Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting with Purpose02:35 Three Ways to Reclaim Your Spark05:21 Identifying What Moves You07:59 Following Curiosity and Passion10:21 Living with Intention   Connect With Us: 🌐 Visit us at ChasingBrighter.com for more tips and resources. 📲 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for giveaways, insights, and behind-the-scenes fun. Subscribe to our newsletter.