Chasing Brighter Podcast: Choosing Real Over Perfect

Super Woman Diaries #14: A Conversation with Sarah Bolor, LCSW: Empowering High Achieving Women

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
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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

Unapologetically You: Building Confidence Through Self-Connection

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.
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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

Super Woman Diaries #13: Navigating Home Improvement Challenges

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

From People-Pleasing to Powerful: Owning Your Worth

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.
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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

Super Woman Diaries #12: The Power of Connection In Times of Grief

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. 
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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
 

An Invitation to Heal: Introducing Healing Is My Hobby

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.

Confidence in Style: How Fashion Can Change Your Energy

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.
 
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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

Super Woman Diaries #11: Exploring the Intersection of Beauty and Health

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
 
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beauty, self-care, fitness, community, Orange Theory, weighted vests, nutrition, trends, exercise, health

Feel The Fear, Find the Fire: Courage in Everyday

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
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fear, courage, growth, joy, purpose, connection, vulnerability, hobbies, authenticity, social connections

Super Woman Diaries #10: Oatmeal and Fashion: A Delicious Conversation

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
 
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oatmeal, Starbucks, fall fashion, capsule wardrobe, denim, investment pieces, personal style, trends, fashion tips, style advice