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.

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.

• 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.

“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.

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 Confidence 11:59 Dopamine Dressing and Emotional Impact 15:40 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 Rituals 03:38 Makeup Tips and Trends 06:20 Fitness Journeys and New Friendships 09:05 Exploring Orange Theory and Group Workouts 11:59 Weight Training and Muscle Building 14:49 The Rise of Weighted Vests 17:37 Trends in Fitness and Nutrition 20:15 Conclusion and Personal Reflections 22:16 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 Growth 04:40 Courage in Daily Life and Social Connections 08:44 Finding Courage in Hobbies and Joy 12:33 Living with Purpose and Aligning Values 15:43 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 Obsession 02:29 Fall Fashion Trends 05:27 Capsule Wardrobe Essentials 09:24 Investment vs. Budget Fashion 12:32 Finding Personal Style 15:06 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 Dialogue 03:15 Identifying and Rewriting Negative Scripts 06:16 Tools for Shifting Your Narrative 08:54 Building Confidence Through Self-Reflection 11:40 Practical Applications of Confidence in Daily Life 14:37 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 Choices 03:35 Alcohol and Its Effects on Health 06:16 Reconnecting with Old Friends 11:42 The Dynamics of Friendships in Parenting 19:13 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 Values 03:08 Understanding Values and Their Importance 05:51 Identifying Core Values 08:23 Auditing Your Time 10:52 Making Small Adjustments for Alignment 13:39 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