What if the most powerful way to step into a new year isn’t by setting goals—but by honoring how far you’ve already come? In this end-of-year reflection, Jessica and Kelly look back on 2025 with honesty, humor, and heart. They celebrate growth, name what felt hard, and introduce the Bright List—a simple but meaningful exercise to help you reflect on what you’re proud of, what you’re ready to release, and what you want more of as you step into 2026. Inside This Conversation: Reflecting on the past year helps in personal growth. The Bright List exercise encourages positive reflection. Releasing negativity can lead to a more fulfilling life. Expanding joy and presence is essential for well-being. Surprises in life can lead to unexpected growth. Healing often comes from acknowledging struggles. Life is messy, and that's part of the journey. Intentions for the new year should focus on self-improvement. Embracing change is crucial as children grow and leave home. Living life to the fullest is a key takeaway for 2026. Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on Growth and Wins 07:13 Exploring Surprises and Healing Moments 12:43 Finding Alignment and Intentions for 2026 20:05 Embracing Change and the Future 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 growth, reflection, intentions, self-improvement, personal development, mindfulness, emotional health, life lessons, 2025 review, 2026 goals   Inside This Conversation:  Kelly is aiming for 75 books this year, currently at 56. Jessica enjoyed the memoir 'Solito' about a boy's journey from El Salvador. The discussion includes the impact of memoirs on understanding personal stories. They reflect on the sensationalism of media in celebrity narratives. Jessica found 'Waiting for Britney' to be a fascinating read about media influence. Kelly shares her experience with spooky books and their appeal. They discuss the importance of well-written literature and character development. Jessica recommends 'The Haunting of Pains Hollow' for spooky book lovers. Kelly is currently reading 'Atomic Habits' and finds it insightful. The conversation emphasizes the benefits of reading and sharing book recommendations. Chapters 00:00 Reading Goals and Challenges 03:26 Memoirs That Resonate 06:30 Exploring New Genres 09:09 Book Recommendations and Insights 12:03 Future Reads and Closing Thoughts 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 reading, books, memoirs, recommendations, personal stories, literary challenges, genres, book clubs, audiobooks, reading goals

What if this holiday didn’t ask you to do more… but invited you to breathe? In this special Christmas episode of Chasing Brighter, Jessica and Kelly offer listeners a soft place to land in the middle of the holiday season. Whether your home is loud and full of activity or quiet and reflective, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to perform joy or hold it all together. Together, they guide listeners through a gentle moment of reflection—inviting you to notice what you’re proud of, what brought unexpected joy, and what you were able to release this month. The conversation then slows into a calming, guided pause designed to help you reconnect with your body, your breath, and a sense of safety in the present moment. This episode acknowledges that the holidays can be both beautiful and triggering, tender and complicated. Most of all, it offers permission: to rest, to breathe, and to receive exactly what you need today. Inside This Episode: Creating a safe place to land during the holidays Reflective questions to gently close out the month A guided moment of presence to calm your nervous system Permission to slow down and release pressure A reminder that you are safe, loved, and enough—just as you are A Gentle Invitation: As you listen, see if you can allow this episode to be a pause—not another thing to accomplish. Let your shoulders drop, feel your feet on the ground, and breathe a little deeper than you have all day.   Wishing you warmth, rest, and joy—exactly in the way you need it today.Thank you for spending a few minutes of your holiday with us. You are worthy. 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   holiday reflection, Christmas mindfulness, holidays and mental health, guided breathing exercise, nervous system regulation, permission to rest, emotional wellness, self-compassion, grounding practices, end-of-year reflection, women’s wellness podcast, Chasing Brighter podcast

What if the best holiday moments are the ones you don’t plan? From festive fails to favorite treats and family traditions, Jessica and Kelly explore the beauty of embracing the season as it unfolds. This episode is a cozy reminder that balance, joy, and connection matter more than getting everything “right.” Inside This Conversation:  Holiday fails can lead to funny stories and resilience. School holiday activities can be overwhelming for parents. Shopping early can help avoid stock issues during the holidays. Elf on the Shelf can be a fun tradition, but it can also be stressful. It's important to prioritize family traditions that bring joy. Advent calendars can be a fun way to celebrate the season. Gift expectations can lead to disappointment if not communicated. Food and drink play a significant role in holiday celebrations. Appetizers can be the highlight of holiday parties. Finding joy in the holidays is essential, even amidst stress.   Chapters 00:00 Holiday Fails and Festive Disasters 02:35 School Holiday Activities and Traditions 04:37 Holiday Shopping Strategies 06:27 Elf on the Shelf and Holiday Magic 08:22 Advent Calendars and Holiday Treats 10:34 Holiday Food Opinions and Appetizers 17:08 Reflections on the Holiday Season 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 holiday fails, festive disasters, school activities, holiday shopping, Elf on the Shelf, family traditions, advent calendars, holiday food, appetizers, holiday reflections

What if self-care this season wasn’t about doing more… but choosing what actually restores you? In this episode of Chasing Brighter, Jessica and Kelly dive into one of the most important (and misunderstood) topics of the season: holiday self-care that truly nourishes your mind, body, and spirit — not the kind that leaves you feeling overstimulated and depleted. The holidays pull on every part of us: schedules, emotions, finances, expectations, and family dynamics. With all the lights, noise, crowds, and invisible emotional labor, it’s easy to slip into numbing coping strategies instead of nurturing ones. In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly help you understand the difference — without shame — so you can listen to what your body actually needs. You’ll explore how over-stimulation impacts your nervous system, why even joyful moments can feel draining when they pile up, and how to gently shift toward self-care practices that leave you calmer, steadier, and more grounded. Inside This Conversation:  The difference between nourishing self-care vs. numbing coping Why holiday over-stimulation impacts your nervous system Common numbing habits (and why they’re human, not failures) Examples of nourishing rituals that restore your energy Why heat therapy (baths, foot soaks, warm showers) can be especially soothing Signs you may be numbing instead of nurturing The “Nourish Me Check-In”: a simple 3-part self-care reset Boundary scripts that protect your peace during the holidays A gentle weekly challenge to support your wellbeing Chapters 00:00 Embracing Holiday Self-Care 01:17 NEWCHAPTER 03:31 Nourishing vs. Numbing Strategies 06:30 Recognizing Signs of Numbing 09:22 Implementing Self-Care Practices 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   holiday self-care, nourishing self-care, numbing coping, emotional well-being, boundaries, mindfulness, stress management, holiday season, mental health, self-care strategies  

What if the holiday season feels more like “back-to-school” chaos than winter magic—and how do we change that? The holiday season comes with excitement… and a whole lot of pressure. Jessica and Kelly dive into the emotional load of December, comparing it to the hectic back-to-school season and exploring why so many of us feel stretched thin. Together, they talk about opting out of unnecessary obligations, finding joy in smaller moments, and giving yourself permission to slow down. Inside This Conversation:  December feels like back to school with its busy routines. Opting out of obligations can be a form of self-care. Gift-giving can be simplified by involving children in the process. Community initiatives like Winter Wonderland can ease holiday stress. It's okay to say no to events and activities that don't bring joy. Prioritizing joy over obligation is essential during the holidays. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their holiday priorities. The importance of a smaller gift list to reduce stress. Finding joy in the holiday season is possible with intention. Self-care should be a priority during busy times. Chapters 00:00 The Holiday Back to School Feeling 03:28 Opting Out of Holiday Obligations 06:36 Finding Joy and Setting Boundaries 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 back to school, December, obligations, self-care, joy hierarchy, holiday stress, parenting, gift giving, family traditions, holiday parties

How would your relationships shift if you protected your peace as much as your plans? The holidays can bring out the best—and the most complicated—in our relationships. In this episode of Chasing Brighter, Jessica and Kelly unpack the emotional landscape of the season: the overstimulation, the resurfacing of old roles, the quiet aches of loneliness or grief, and the pressure to “show up” perfectly. Instead, they offer a grounded, compassionate approach to connection. Together, they explore how small, intentional moments can nurture deeper relationships, why boundaries are essential for emotional well-being, and how authenticity can transform how we engage with the people we love. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, protect your peace, and reconnect in simple, meaningful ways. Inside This Conversation:  December can highlight loneliness, grief, or unresolved tension. Our nervous system is overstimulated during the holidays. Old family roles can resurface, impacting emotional dynamics. Choosing small, meaningful interactions fosters connection. Boundaries protect connection and emotional well-being. Resentment builds when we overcommit ourselves. Five minutes of focused attention can create real connection. Connection doesn't have to be big to be meaningful. Show up authentically in your relationships. Simple practices can support your nervous system during busy times. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Connection During the Holidays 02:27 Understanding Emotional Roles and Family Dynamics 04:57 Building Meaningful Connections 08:01 Establishing Healthy Boundaries 10:49 The Power of Presence and Small Acts 11:43 Conclusion and Next Steps 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 connection, holidays, emotional dynamics, boundaries, presence, self-care, relationships, meaningful interactions, mental health, family dynamics

Why is it that we can call five friends when something goes wrong… but hesitate to call even one when something goes right? Today, we’re unpacking the complicated dance between vulnerability, celebration, and connection. Who are the people in your life who can hold your hard moments and cheer for your wins without shrinking? In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly explore the dynamics of friendships, particularly focusing on the tendency to share good and bad news. They discuss the societal pressures surrounding vulnerability and the celebration of personal achievements, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals. The conversation concludes with a call to embrace an abundance mindset and celebrate wins together. Inside This Conversation:  The number of friends you call with good news is often smaller than those you call with bad news. Many people fear sharing good news due to concerns about jealousy or being perceived as bragging. Vulnerability is key in friendships, allowing for deeper connections. It's easier to share bad news than good news for many individuals. Cultural norms often discourage celebrating personal achievements, labeling it as bragging. Surrounding oneself with supportive friends can foster a healthier environment for sharing successes. The concept of 'candle blower outers' highlights the importance of uplifting each other. There is an abundance of happiness and success available for everyone. Celebrating wins is essential for personal growth and happiness. It's important to be mindful of others' emotional states when sharing good news. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Journey 01:38 Friends for Good and Bad News 04:36 Vulnerability and Authenticity in Sharing 07:03 Celebrating Wins and Abundance Mindset 09:00 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 friendship, good news, bad news, vulnerability, celebrating wins, abundance mindset, podcasting, emotional support, personal growth, relationships

The holidays are here — and so is the pressure. The expectations. The comparison. The “shoulds.”But what if joy didn’t just happen this season?What if you created it on purpose? In today’s episode, Kelly and Jessica kick off December with a powerful, grounding conversation about choosing joy intentionally… not accidentally, not because Instagram says so, not because “it’s tradition,” and definitely not because you feel obligated. Together, they introduce a simple but life-changing tool called The Joy Hierarchy — your personal top-three list of what brings you real joy this season. You’ll learn how to identify what genuinely nourishes you, prioritize what matters most, and release all the holiday extras that drain your energy. This episode gives you:✨ A new definition of joy (it’s not one-size-fits-all!)✨ A step-by-step guide to building your own Joy Hierarchy✨ Permission slips to opt out, simplify, and redefine traditions✨ Heartfelt examples from Kelly and Jessica’s own joy lists✨ A reminder that your holiday gets to look the way you need it to Whether you’re craving slow mornings, cozy lights, meaningful moments, or more space than usual — you’re invited to make this a season that feels honest, grounding, and deeply yours. Because joy isn’t something you wait for. It’s something you choose — on purpose. In This Episode: Why joy takes intention (yes, even during the holidays) How to identify what actually brings you joy Releasing obligation, guilt, and comparison Creating a Joy Hierarchy that guides your December Protecting your energy with boundaries Permission to slow down and choose a different kind of season Mentioned in This Episode: 💛 Gratitude & Connection Series – November Episodes💛 🎄 Holiday Gift Guide! — curated with joy in mind

What book has been waiting for you to finally read it? In this episode, Jessica and Kelly discuss their reading goals for the year, sharing insights on various books they've read, particularly focusing on memoirs and personal stories. They explore different genres, recommend titles to each other, and reflect on the impact of reading on their lives. The discussion highlights the joy of reading and the benefits it brings, encouraging listeners to dive into new books and expand their literary horizons. Inside This Conversation:  Kelly is aiming for 75 books this year, currently at 56. Jessica enjoyed the memoir 'Solito' about a boy's journey from El Salvador. The discussion includes the impact of memoirs on understanding personal stories. They reflect on the sensationalism of media in celebrity narratives. Jessica found 'Waiting for Britney' to be a fascinating read about media influence. Kelly shares her experience with spooky books and their appeal. They discuss the importance of well-written literature and character development. Jessica recommends 'The Haunting of Pains Hollow' for spooky book lovers. Kelly is currently reading 'Atomic Habits' and finds it insightful. The conversation emphasizes the benefits of reading and sharing book recommendations. Chapters 00:00 Reading Goals and Challenges 03:26 Memoirs That Resonate 06:30 Exploring New Genres 09:09 Book Recommendations and Insights 12:03 Future Reads and Closing Thoughts 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 reading, books, memoirs, recommendations, personal stories, literary challenges, genres, book clubs, audiobooks, reading goals

Are you rushing through the holidays, or are you letting gratitude soften the edges of your days? In this Thanksgiving episode of Chasing Brighter, hosts Jessica Colarco and Kelly reflect on the importance of gratitude as a practice rather than a one-time event. They discuss personal experiences and insights from the month, emphasizing the value of connection, perspective, and honoring one's journey. The conversation encourages listeners to integrate gratitude into their daily lives and to appreciate the small moments that contribute to a fulfilling life. Inside This Conversation:  Gratitude is a practice that can be integrated into daily life. Reflecting on challenges can reveal valuable lessons. Family traditions can enhance the Thanksgiving experience. Gratitude helps us focus on the present moment. It's important to honor our personal journeys and growth. Small rituals can foster a sense of gratitude. Gratitude can transform our perspective on life. Taking time to reflect on the year can provide clarity. Expressing gratitude can deepen connections with others. Gratitude is essential for personal transformation. Chapters 00:00 Thanksgiving Reflections and Gratitude Practices 05:26 Honoring Our Journey and Growth 11:15 Creating Space for Gratitude and Transformation 13:00 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 Thanksgiving, gratitude, reflection, family, connection, mindfulness, journaling, perspective, compassion, holiday season

Is decorating early the secret to actually enjoying the holidays? In this episode, Jessica and Kelly discuss their holiday preparations, including early Christmas decorations and family traditions. They also share their recent travel experiences, particularly a trip to a Notre Dame football game, highlighting the challenges of winter weather and the joy of reconnecting with friends. Inside This Conversation:  Decorating early for the holidays can reduce stress. The holiday season can be busy, but it's important to enjoy it. Twinkling lights create a cozy atmosphere in the home. Traveling during the fall can be easier before the holiday rush. Experiencing winter weather can be challenging but memorable. College traditions can strengthen friendships over time. Driving in bad weather requires caution and preparation. It's important to find joy in holiday gatherings with family. Sharing experiences with friends can create lasting memories. Don't hesitate to try new things, even if they seem daunting.   Chapters 00:00 Holiday Preparations and Traditions 03:30 Travel Adventures and College Friendships 06:25 Weather Challenges and Driving Experiences 12:10 Reflections on Fun and New Experiences 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 holiday season, Christmas decorations, travel, Notre Dame, college friends, winter weather, family traditions, Thanksgiving, driving in snow, festive atmosphere

What if strength wasn’t about doing more, but about offering yourself grace? In this episode, Jessica Colarco and Kelly discuss the pervasive feelings of guilt, particularly among women, and how to choose grace over guilt. They explore the importance of setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and redefining strength to include rest and self-care. The discussion also touches on parenting and the guilt that often accompanies it, emphasizing the need for self-acceptance and the understanding that worthiness is not tied to productivity. Inside This Conversation:  Guilt often sneaks into our everyday lives, especially for women. Burnout can manifest as quiet resentment and heaviness. Setting boundaries is a form of honesty and self-respect. Overcommitting leads to a version of ourselves that is not genuine. Resting is not laziness; it's a necessary part of self-care. Self-compassion helps counteract feelings of guilt. Grace allows us to acknowledge our worth without productivity. Parenting guilt can hinder our ability to teach resilience to our children. Choosing grace over guilt can redefine our understanding of strength. Practicing grace can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to do the same. Chapters 00:00 Choosing Grace Over Guilt 02:59 Understanding Burnout and Boundaries 05:49 The Power of Self-Compassion 08:14 Redefining Strength and Rest 10:56 Parenting, Guilt, and Resilience 13:50 Practicing Grace in Everyday Life 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 grace, guilt, boundaries, self-compassion, parenting, rest, burnout, mental health, personal growth, emotional well-being

How do we date in a world where privacy is fragile and connection feels digital? In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly explore the complexities of dating in the modern age, touching on the rise of Facebook Dating, the challenges of identity and privacy in the digital world, and the evolving nature of relationships. They discuss the importance of compatibility and companionship in marriage, reflecting on personal experiences and societal expectations surrounding dating and relationships. Inside This Conversation:  Dating is a challenging topic for many, especially for those re-entering the dating scene. Facebook Dating has gained popularity due to its integration with existing social networks. Privacy and data sharing are significant concerns in the digital age, especially with dating apps. The evolution of dating has shifted from traditional matchmaking to algorithm-based connections. Companionship and shared values are crucial for long-term relationships. The perception of dating has changed with the rise of technology and social media. Scams related to identity theft are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Support from tech companies, like Facebook, is often lacking when issues arise. Understanding compatibility is essential in finding a life partner. Marriage can evolve over time, with companionship becoming a key component. Chapters 00:00 The Quest for a Dating Expert 03:36 The Rise of Facebook Dating 06:21 Navigating Identity and Privacy in the Digital Age 09:17 The Evolution of Dating and Relationships 12:02 Compatibility vs. Attraction in Long-Term Relationships 14:48 The Importance of Companionship in Marriage 17:56 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   dating, Facebook Dating, matchmaking, relationships, privacy, identity theft, companionship, compatibility, dating experts, digital age

What if the smallest “thank you” could transform your closest relationships? In this conversation, Jessica Colarco and Kelly explore the profound impact of gratitude on relationships and emotional well-being. They discuss how expressing appreciation not only benefits the recipient but also enhances the giver's happiness. Through personal anecdotes and scientific studies, they highlight the importance of intentional gratitude in everyday interactions, emphasizing that small acts of appreciation can lead to significant positive changes in our connections with others. The discussion also touches on the vulnerability involved in expressing gratitude and how it can strengthen bonds between individuals. Inside This Conversation:  Gratitude is a powerful tool for transforming relationships. Expressing appreciation activates the brain's reward centers for both giver and receiver. A simple thank you can create a deep shift in relationships. Gratitude can be expressed in small, everyday actions. Vulnerability in expressing gratitude strengthens connections. Intentional gratitude can lead to increased happiness and well-being. Gratitude creates a ripple effect that spreads positivity. Specificity in gratitude makes it more impactful. Practicing gratitude can help alleviate anxiety and stress. Connection is built through small moments of appreciation. Chapters 00:00 The Transformative Power of Gratitude 02:51 Gratitude in Action: Real-Life Examples 05:39 Building Connections Through Appreciation 08:22 The Vulnerability of Gratitude 11:12 Gratitude as a Daily Practice 13:49 Creating a Ripple Effect of Kindness 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 gratitude, relationships, appreciation, connection, kindness, emotional well-being, communication, vulnerability, happiness, social bonds

How can movement become a celebration of what your body can do — not punishment for what it’s not? In this conversation, Jessica and Kelly discuss their fitness journeys, focusing on their experiences with Orange Theory workouts, the importance of VO2 max for longevity, and the balance between physical and mental wellness. They share personal anecdotes about their challenges and successes in fitness, emphasizing the significance of recovery, body positivity, and the joy of feeling strong and capable. The discussion encourages listeners to find a form of movement that resonates with them and promotes overall well-being.   Inside This Conversation:  Jessica expresses gratitude for her body and its capabilities. Kelly shares her experience with Orange Theory's Hell Week. The conversation highlights the fun and intensity of group workouts. They discuss the importance of cardiovascular health and VO2 max. Recovery is emphasized as a crucial aspect of fitness. Mental wellness is intertwined with physical health in their discussions. Weight loss is approached with a focus on health rather than appearance. Both women feel stronger and more capable through their fitness journeys. They acknowledge the societal pressures around body image and fitness. The conversation concludes with encouragement for listeners to find joy in movement.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fitness Journeys 03:16 Experiencing Hell Week at Orange Theory 06:19 The Importance of Variety in Workouts 09:12 Understanding VO2 Max and Longevity 11:54 Tracking Progress and Health Metrics 14:30 The Role of Mental Wellness in Fitness 17:25 The Connection Between Weight Loss and Health 20:32 Building Strength and Overcoming Pain 23:18 Conclusion: Embracing Movement and Self-Care 27:44 NEWCHAPTER fitness, health, Orange Theory, VO2 max, longevity, weight loss, mental wellness, exercise, recovery, body positivity

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