Chasing Brighter Podcast

It's officially Hot Mom Summer, and we're turning up the confidence and the color! In this vibrant episode, we welcome the fabulous Melissa Briskman—actor, stylist, and longtime fashion guru!! Melissa shares her best advice for curating a capsule wardrobe, finding your personal style (even if you're over 40 and think you don't have one!), and why you should never wear anything you don't love—even to bed! Whether you're heading to a baseball game, brunch with your girls, or just chasing kiddos in the summer heat, Melissa's styling tips will have you feeling confident, put-together, and totally YOU.

  In this fun and fashion-forward episode, Jessica and Kelly dive into one of their latest style obsessions—an ultra-affordable, buttery-soft matching set from Walmart. Jessica shares the scoop on how these $14 sets rival luxury brands like Vuori, why they're perfect for Zoom calls, school runs, and spontaneous hangouts, and how she's been styling them for everyday wear. The hosts also get real about the evolving fashion needs of midlife, the ethical dilemmas of shopping big-box vs. small business, and why realistic choices matter for busy women balancing work, family, and comfort. Plus, they tease their upcoming episode with stylist Melissa dropping May 27th, where they'll share even more spring and summer fashion tips. ✨ Whether you're a die-hard fashionista or just looking for comfy style on a budget, this conversation will have you rethinking where and how you shop! In This Episode: The $14 matching set that feels like Vuori (00:01) The rise of matching sets post-pandemic Why Walmart fashion is having a moment Balancing ethical shopping with everyday needs Real-life fashion for midlife women A preview of what's coming next on Chasing Brighter Resources & Links: Join the Thrive Tribe: chasingbrighter.com Walmart ButterCore shirt. Walmart ButterCore shorts. Stay Connected:

In this heartfelt and honest episode, Jessica and Kelly dive deep into the societal myths of the "perfect mom" and why it's time to let them go. From Pinterest-worthy parties to gentle parenting pressure, today's moms are bombarded with unrealistic expectations—and it's exhausting. Together, they explore how redefining motherhood starts with embracing imperfection, setting boundaries, and showing up authentically. You'll hear real talk about missed games, takeout dinners, emotional repair, and the power of modeling healthy behavior for your kids. Stay tuned until the end for a special segment, Motherhood Voices, featuring personal reflections from other moms on what being a "good mom" truly means to them.

In this heartfelt episode, Jessica and Kelly dive into their recent experiences as sports moms and the challenges they've observed with unsportsmanlike behavior in youth athletics. From high school baseball rivalries to locker room dynamics, they explore how sports culture shapes young athletes—and why adult leadership matters. They reflect on the importance of programs that emphasize character, and how it only takes one voice to change the tone on and off the field. Whether you're a parent, coach, or just care about raising respectful humans, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, hosts, Kelly and Jessica explore the transformative idea of “mothering ourselves” and how it can lead to more joy, peace, and fulfillment in midlife. Jessica and Kelly share personal stories, helpful mindset shifts, and practical daily rituals that help prioritize self-care without guilt. From learning that your needs matter just as much as everyone else's, to redefining what happiness looks like as we age, this episode is full of validation and inspiration. It's time to care for yourself with the same tenderness you give to others—because you deserve to feel full, not just functional. Topics Covered: What it means to mother ourselves Mindset Shifts: Self-care is survival, not selfish Your needs matter as much as others You're allowed to redefine happiness Daily rituals that fill your cup The mental load and how to shift out of burnout mode ✨ Tune in for real talk, real tips, and a gentle nudge toward more joyful, intentional living in midlife.

In this episode, Jessica and Kelly dive into the importance of advocating for your kids — whether it's snagging a coveted summer camp spot or navigating the competitive world of magnet school admissions. Kelly shares the rollercoaster of emotions when her son Beckett was waitlisted for camp and how a little persistence (and an email!) turned things around. Jessica talks about her son Dominic's surprising lottery acceptance into a highly competitive magnet high school and why showing up and staying ready matters more than we think. They discuss: ✅ The value of following up (and not just waiting passively) ✅ How local preferences often play a quiet role in camp admissions ✅ What to expect from highly selective magnet schools ✅ Why it's okay to pivot plans last-minute if a better opportunity comes up ✅ Lessons learned about showing up early and staying engaged Whether you're a parent navigating summer planning or school transitions, this episode is packed with real-life insights on how to create opportunities — and why luck favors the proactive.

In this special Mother-Daughter episode, Jessica is joined by her daughter Gabriella for part two of their series on navigating connection during the teen years. They dive into what actually helps strengthen the bond between parents and teens — and what totally misses the mark (hint: sending 30 reels a day is not the answer!). They share real talk about: Why simple, meaningful check-ins are better than constant questions about school The power of consistent traditions like movie nights and shopping trips How to approach connection without overwhelming or interrogating your teen Why respecting your teen's growing independence is key — and how to balance communication without taking it personally This episode is full of honest advice straight from a teen's perspective, giving parents practical, relatable ways to stay close during these busy, changing years. Mentioned: Thrive Tribe: Learn more at chasingbrighter.com/thrivetribe

The episode hosts Jessica and Kelly talk about the emotional and mental toll motherhood takes on American women, noting that American mothers are among the unhappiest in the developed world.  Ever felt totally exhausted by 9 a.m. without even leaving the house? You're not alone. In this deeply personal and powerful episode, Jessica and Kelly shine a light on the invisible weight American moms are carrying—aka “the mental load.” From managing schedules and soothing meltdowns to being the emotional thermostat of the home, moms are burning out in a culture that expects them to do it all. Tune in as we explore: What the "Happiness Gap" is and why U.S. moms are unhappier than moms globally What mental load, decision fatigue, and emotional labor really mean Real-life examples of the daily mental burden 4 strategies to reclaim peace, joy, and time How to delegate like a boss (hint: it's not just about the task!) ✨This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to set boundaries, share the load, and redefine what being a “good mom” actually means.  

The hosts chat about seeing the Minecraft movie with their kids—some reluctant, some excited—and share funny moments from bootleg viewing to spontaneous theater trips. They also discuss progress on furnishing their lake house, delivery logistics, and plans to rent it out. The episode wraps with updates on spring break, enjoying downtime, and upcoming summer baseball travel.

Ready to fall in love with reading all over again? In this playful and heartwarming episode, we're serving up our favorite fun reads of 2025 (so far)! From swoon-worthy romances to juicy thrillers, fantastical escapes to deeply moving nonfiction—this is your ultimate spring/summer reading list. Jessica dishes on the cozy chaos of The Ex Hex series, the haunting truth of The House of My Mother, and her total obsession with everything Abby Jimenez writes (yes, she's THAT good). Kelly shares her fiction faves (The Berry Pickers and All the Colors of the Dark are must-reads!), her current sci-fi and fantasy flings, and the non-fiction titles changing her life—hello Good Inside and Radical Acceptance. So grab a cup of tea or a sparkling spritz, curl up with a blanket, and prepare to be inspired to crack open a new chapter in your reading life. Bonus: we even share where we find our books and spill on BookTok obsessions! Jessica's Top Picks

In this episode, Kelly and Jessica dive into managing the chaos of summer camp registrations, the mental load of midlife, and neighborhood battles.

Feeling blah? Stuck in a rut? Maybe you just need a little glitter and glue in your life! In this colorful episode of Chasing Brighter, sisters Kelly and Jessica jump into the magic of creativity as a powerful form of self-care. From baking gluten-free treats to quilting masterpieces, they share personal stories, practical tips, and joyful encouragement to help you tap into your own creative spark—no perfectionism required!

In this episode, Kelly and Jessica recount their recent trip to Nashville and discuss their experiences at the Podcasting Moms conference. They share insights about podcasting, fashion inspiration drawn from the conference, and the benefits of using clothing rental services like Rent the Runway and Newly. The duo also touches on the joys of solo travel and the energy boost it provides. Tune in to hear their entertaining tales and useful tips. Try Rent the Runway with 40% off your first rental. Connect With Us:

Are you ready to bring more joy and movement into your life—without the burnout? In Episode 68 of Chasing Brighter, we dive into the power of play and joyful movement for adults, especially women navigating midlife. From dance parties in your living room to high-tech fitness games, we're showing you how to reclaim your energy, boost your mood, and stay active—no treadmill required!

Today's episode includes a very special guest... Jessica's daughter Gabriella!!! Jessica and her daughter Gabriella discuss the generational gap between parents and teenagers. Gabriella shares her insights on what midlife women might not realize about their teens' thoughts and feelings, highlighting the common issues teens face today, like social media pressures and school stress. They also discuss body image, the impact of hormonal changes, and the importance of compassion and understanding between parents and kids. Self-care and its changing role across generations is another vital topic they explore.   Join OUR Thrive Tribe TODAY! Use code 8F3C5 for 50% off first month!  Connect With Us:

Ready to make midlife your best life? In this energetic and joy-filled episode, Kelly and Jessica take you on a tech-powered tour of the latest gadgets, apps, and wearables designed to help midlife women thrive.

The conversation between Jessica and Kelly covers a range of topics including personal commitments, managing children's schedules, and DIY projects. Kelly shares her experience with home renovations, specifically removing wallpaper from her lake house, while Jessica reflects on their personal growth and willingness to tackle new projects. They also recount their recent travels, sharing stories from their trips to Texas and the Gulf Coast. Throughout the episode, they discuss dealing with practical challenges such as scheduling, making decisions, independent travel for their children, and managing outdoor conditions like the presence of snakes and mosquitoes.

Welcome to back to Chasing Brighter!

In this episode, Jessica and Kelly discuss various challenges and solutions related to internet connectivity and technology. They share personal anecdotes about internet speeds at different locations, including Kelly's lake house and the use of mobile hotspots. The conversation then shifts to tech devices, like the Padoro MagSafe battery pack, and their benefits. Jessica updates listeners on her daughter's college softball journey and the unfortunate ACL injury she recently sustained. They discuss the surgery, recovery process, and the support her daughter has received from her future college. Kelly shares the excitement and anxiety surrounding her son making the JV baseball team and the transformative effects this has had on his confidence. They delve into the topic of dealing with children's anxiety and mental health, stressing the importance of having coping tools and positive reinforcement. The episode concludes with Jessica mentioning a new guided meditation available for Thrive Tribe members and encouraging listeners to join the community for additional content and resources. Resources & Mentions: Podoru MagSafe Battery Pack Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach Guided meditations for our Thrive Tribe Members Previous episode: Ep. 62 - Empowering Women Through Networking: Insights from Shannon Russell of Second Act Success Connect With Us:

It's Women's History Month, and what better way to celebrate than by lifting each other up? In this episode, hosts Jessica and Kelly sit down with Shannon Russell, career transition coach, entrepreneur, and host of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, to talk about the power of networking and how women can connect, collaborate, and elevate one another.

In this episode of the Super Woman Diaries, Jessica and Kelly discuss a variety of topics, including Kelly's recent visit to Jessica's home and the challenges of renting properties through Airbnb. They share humorous anecdotes about their rental experiences and the unexpected situations they encountered. One of the major highlights is Jessica's daughter committing to play college softball after an extensive and dedicated recruitment process, providing detailed insights into how they navigated college applications and sports commitments. The episode closes with Jessica and Kelly reflecting on the rewards of their hard work and offering wishes for peace, compassion, and continued positivity for their listeners.

In this episode, Jessica and Kelly cover a range of emotional and thought-provoking topics. They discuss a recent incident at a town hall meeting where a woman was forcibly removed, sparking reflections on societal behavior and justice. The conversation then shifts to the passing of Elana from Elana's Pantry and her impact as an early health blogger. The hosts also delve into the benefits of creativity for anxiety management, featuring insights from Martha Beck's latest book. They touch on family dynamics, parenting styles, and personal experiences with their children. The episode ends with reflections on societal pressures, family involvement in community activities, and a focus on spreading love, joy, and mindfulness.

Welcome back to Chasing Brighter!  March is all about celebrating women who inspire us! In this episode, we're shining a light on incredible women who embody courage, kindness, and resilience. From meditation guru Tara Brach to trailblazing Michelle Obama, from candid motherhood advocate Libby Ward (Diary of an Honest Mom) to creativity queen Elizabeth Gilbert—we're diving into their wisdom, their journeys, and how they inspire us to live bolder. Plus, we're talking about a powerhouse in women-led journalism, The Skimm, and how they're using their platform for advocacy. And of course, our biggest inspiration of all? Our mom!

Welcome back, friends! This week, we're sipping something warm, shaking off decision fatigue, and leaning into the art of listening—to our bodies, our creative instincts, and even our coffee cravings. In This Episode: ☕ Mushroom Coffee & Morning Rituals

Hey, friends of Chasing Brighter! Are your New Year's goals already feeling meh?

Jessica and Kelly discuss a recent stressful experience Kelly had with an Airbnb booking complication and its resolution. They also share their thoughts on the challenges of travel, particularly driving in difficult weather conditions, and the physical manifestations of stress. Jessica talks about the rigorous process of visiting multiple colleges with her daughter and addresses the importance of taking time for self-care. Both hosts reflect on their upbringing, the value of mobility and resilience, and the evolving nature of society's mobility practices. They discuss the significance of acknowledging and managing stress to maintain both physical and mental health. The episode concludes with an exploration of the importance of instilling resilience in the younger generation through challenging experiences and travel.

Welcome back to Chasing Brighter! Are you ready to bring more warmth, comfort, and joy into your everyday life? This week, hosts Kelly & Jessica are diving into hygge (pronounced hoo-gah), the Danish lifestyle trend that's all about coziness, connection, and simple pleasures. In this episode, we chat about: ✨ What hygge really means (spoiler: it's not just candles and blankets!) ✨ How a cozy atmosphere can reduce stress and boost happiness ✨ Ways to create hygge-inspired moments (without spending a dime!) ✨ How to make your home feel warm, inviting, and clutter-free

Kelly and Jessica discuss their experiences with college visits for their children. Jessica shares her recent trips to Boston and Philadelphia, highlighting her daughter's excitement about college. They delve into memories and contrasts between their high school and college friendships, noting how different factors influence their children's social experiences today. They discuss the impact of technology on social connections and the slower social maturity it might cause. The conversation also touches on travel challenges, staying healthy while traveling, and maintaining connections.   

In this episode, Kelly and Jessica discuss various strategies for enhancing relationships. The episode covers valuable tips such as practicing active listening, maintaining emotional connection, sharing experiences, and effective conflict resolution techniques. The hosts also emphasize the importance of appreciation, gratitude, and regular check-ins with partners. They share personal anecdotes and suggest practical tools, apps, and activities to help listeners foster deeper, more meaningful connections with their partners. This episode is a guide to creating and sustaining strong, lasting bonds in various types of relationships.

Hey, superwomen! Welcome back to the Chasing Brighter podcast.

The conversation kicks off with Jessica and Kelly talking about school closures due to extreme cold and discussing the impact on families and children. They then touch on their respective travel experiences—Jessica's college visitation trips with her daughter and Kelly trying new things, like bouldering and cooking paella. The hosts emphasize the importance of stepping out of comfort zones, whether through travel, new hobbies, or indoor winter activities. 

This episode centers around discussions of practical challenges and personal reflections. The hosts, Jessica and Kelly, converse about setting up a new office, dealing with tech hassles, and navigating internet connectivity issues through personal anecdotes. They also delve into the divide between volunteer and "Venmo" parents at schools, advocating for a non-judgmental, understanding approach among mothers. The script closes with an emphasis on kindness, self-compassion, and encouraging listeners to lead with empathy in their interactions.

Are you ready to make 2025 your most intentional, joy-filled year yet? This week on Chasing Brighter, we're diving into living fully—balancing bold adventures with those small, everyday moments that make life sweet. ✨ Episode Highlights: The importance of setting intentions aligned with your values How to plan big adventures while embracing daily joys Simple mindfulness practices to savor everyday moments Fun ideas like trying mixology, exploring local experiences, and crafting rituals

In this episode, hosts Jessica and Kelly engage in a candid discussion about their personal lives, focusing on health, wellness, and midlife challenges. Jessica talks about her struggles with sleep due to her habit of binge-watching TV shows like Bridgerton and finding solace in reading before bed. She also mentions using an Alpha-Stim device and daily meditation to manage her anxiety and improve sleep quality. Kelly chimes in with her experiences, particularly the impact of screen time on her and her son's sleep and headaches, and the benefits of using blue light blocker glasses. The conversation also touches on the broader themes of balancing rest with productivity, and the challenges of loving oneself while striving for personal health improvements. They reference discussions from other content creators and experts on topics such as diet culture and health management.  Connect With Us:

  The Thrive Tribe is a subscription service for the Chasing Brighter podcast. It offers listeners an enhanced experience with ad-free episodes, exclusive bonus content, and a weekly newsletter that provides additional tips and insights related to personal growth, wellness, and living your best life—all for one low price. Subscribers can access all these benefits to dive deeper into the themes discussed on the podcast and get extra tools to thrive in their own lives. More details are available at chasingbrighter.com/thrivetribe

Have you ever felt the weight of a messy closet lift after organizing it? Imagine doing the same for your mind! In today's episode of Chasing Brighter, we're diving into clearing mental clutter—identifying and releasing those thoughts, habits, and emotions that no longer serve us. By doing so, we open ourselves up to clarity, creativity, and the energy to pursue new opportunities.   What You'll Learn in This Episode:

In this episode of "Superwoman Diaries," Jessica and Kelly discuss the hectic start to their new year and strategies to regain calm. They touch on their personal experiences with health, wellness, and dealing with unexpected events like illnesses that disrupted their holiday plans. They share tips on how to manage mental clutter and provide insights into their routines for maintaining well-being, including updates on exercise habits, dietary supplements, and meal planning using technology like ChatGPT. The episode wraps up with them reflecting on personal growth, setting goals for 2025, and balancing life's various demands while staying true to their values.

In this episode, Kelly and Jessica dive into discussions about personal transformations and upcoming plans.  Kelly shares her excitement about getting hair extensions to feel more comfortable and embrace a new look despite past surgeries and scarring. The conversation transitions into beauty treatments, like microblading and tinting eyelashes, and the importance of feeling good about one's appearance in midlife. They also touch upon the complexity of planning family travels, dealing with different preferences and schedules, and their upcoming travel itineraries. Jessica shares about her daughter Gabby's college visits and softball camps, while Kelly explains the challenges she faces with her family's travel plans. They swap ideas on potential travel destinations, balancing family desires, and finding personal joy. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the positive impact of looking one's best and feeling good, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between the two. Follow Us: Instagram: @ChasingBrighter Chasing Brighter Blog

What are your big dreams for 2025? What small joys make your heart sing? Whether it's starting a gratitude journal, trying mixology, or planning a trip, take one step today toward living fully.

 In this episode, Jessica and Kelly catch up on each other's lives and discuss various topics related to home organization, shopping, and personal wellness. Kelly talks about her new office setup and shares stories about visiting the Maker's Hive Market and finding unique, tarnish-free jewelry. Kelly and Jessica explore the benefits of organization and mention their experiences with blue light blocker glasses from Zenni Optical. The episode also includes a discussion on affordable glasses and the joy of changing up looks.

It's the most reflective time of the year! In this episode, Jessica and Kelly dive into the power of year-end reflection, letting go of what no longer serves us, and setting meaningful intentions for the new year. From spontaneous road trips to journaling breakthroughs, we're sharing our raw, unfiltered thoughts on what made this year joyful and challenging—and how we're embracing 2024 with open hearts.

In this episode of Super Woman Diaries, Jessica and Kelly discuss the complexities and humor of daily life during the holiday season. They dive into personal experiences with their kids and the challenges of balancing holiday activities and traditions. The episode kicks off with a light-hearted conversation about shopping trips, kid's snack preferences, and unexpectedly running into judgmental strangers. Jessica shares her struggle with giving up coffee and how it impacts her day-to-day life, while Kelly talks about finding alternatives like Trader Joe's chicory tea. The hosts also navigate through parenting teens, particularly addressing issues like curfews, academic stress, and dating, all while keeping a humorous and honest tone.  As the holiday season approaches, they discuss their late decorating efforts and strategies for making the best of limited holiday preparation time. Additionally, they touch on creative holiday table settings using desserts as decorations. 

Feeling frazzled by holiday chaos? We've got your back! This week, we're tackling practical self-care strategies to help you experience the holiday season with more calm, rest, and joy. From setting boundaries to sneaking in moments of quiet, we're sharing easy ways to avoid burnout and actually enjoy the holidays. What We're Talking About: ✨ Recognizing holiday burnout—what it looks like and how to fix it ✨ Simple self-care ideas, from mindful breathing to daily rituals ✨ How to set boundaries around your time, money, and emotions ✨ Finding small moments of joy that recharge your spirit Our Quick Tips for a Calmer Holiday: Delegate tasks—ask for help or let technology handle it! Simplify your traditions—think “good enough,” not perfect. Schedule rest like it's an important meeting (because it is!). Say no to things that drain you and yes to what fills your cup. Mentioned in This Episode:

In this episode, Kelly and Jessica dive into various engaging topics. They start with a light-hearted discussion about a humorous ChatGPT prompt imagining a world where men had periods, highlighting how societal perspectives would change. They reflect on the societal stigma surrounding menstruation and the importance of normalizing these conversations. They then explore an innovative initiative in Switzerland that allows younger individuals to earn time coins for helping elders, which they can redeem for support in their own old age. This leads into a broader conversation about the aging population and the importance of staying active and connected for longevity and well-being. Kelly shares an inspiring story about a relative in his 60s who maintains an incredibly active lifestyle, underscoring the benefits of physical activity at any age. The hosts then contemplate the complexity of health and fitness, especially for women in perimenopause and menopause, highlighting the challenges of weight loss and fitness despite regular exercise. Jess shares about her new office space and the potential for future events there, before they wrap up with reflections on their year and setting intentions for 2025

This holiday season, go beyond the small talk and foster meaningful connections with family and friends. In this episode, we share practical tips for creating moments of belonging and joy, whether you're hosting a dinner or catching up from afar. From intentional conversations to practicing gratitude, we'll help you make this season truly special. What You'll Learn: Why connection is key to happiness and health. How to move beyond surface-level interactions. Practical tips to create deeper bonds and traditions. Follow Us: Instagram: @ChasingBrighter Blog: Chasing Brighter Blog 2024 Gift Guide is here! Subscribe for more episodes to make your holidays brighter! Happy Holidays!