The Catching Sunshine Podcast with Carolyn Cooper

Have you ever felt like you’re right back where you started — facing the same lesson or emotion again? You’re not going in circles; you’re spiraling up. In this gentle, reflective episode, Carolyn shares how real growth isn’t a straight line but a spiral of wisdom, grace, and new awareness. Learn how to recognize upward movement even when life feels repetitive, why your mind sometimes needs time t...

Season Two starts with a truth we don't always want to hear: struggle has purpose. In this episode, discover why some of the most beautiful things require a little pressure, a little grit, and a willingness to keep going. If you're in a hard season or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers hope, perspective, and a reminder to honor the struggle. Don't forget to subscribe so you're not...

Looking for your next great read? In this episode, I’m sharing 10 books that have stayed with me—books I’ve highlighted, gifted, packed in my carry-on, and even talked about over dinner. These aren’t just popular titles—they’re ones that made me pause, reflect, smile, or see something differently. Some are soulful, some are smart, and a few might just land with you the way they did with me. This i...

What do the most common end-of-life regrets have to teach us about living more fully right now? This episode blends reflection, insight, and encouragement as we explore five universal regrets — and the five life-affirming invitations hidden inside each one. We’ll cover the different types of regret and I’ll also share a bit about author Bronnie Ware’s inspiring story and the lessons I took from he...

What if the thing stealing your focus isn’t actually that big — just sneaky? In this episode, we look at how tiny distractions (even the ones that seem productive) can quietly derail your day. With help from a storybook duck and a familiar metaphor, you’ll learn how to catch yourself sooner, reset with more ease, and stay connected to what really matters. Don't forget to subscribe so you're notifi...

You’ve heard of Paul Revere—but have you heard of the other ride that helped shape the Revolutionary War? In this episode, we revisit a powerful yet often forgotten story of Sybil Ludington—a teenager whose quiet preparation and courageous action made a lasting impact. But this isn’t just a history lesson. It’s about you—and the moments in life when you’re called to step up, use the gifts you’ve b...

In this episode, I’m sharing something I’ve felt called to speak about for a while. After hearing a story that touched on energy healing—and reading through the comment section—I realized just how many misconceptions are still out there. So today, I’m offering a clear and compassionate explanation of how I define and use energy healing, from my own lens of experience, faith, and years of practice....

You know that feeling when you've tried everything and the problem is still there? What if the issue isn't how hard you're trying - but what problem you're actually trying to solve? Whether it's workplace deadlines, personal habits, or relationship dynamics, sometimes the breakthrough comes not from pushing harder, but from asking a completely different question. Perfect for anyone who feels stuck...

What if the secret to shifting your day wasn’t about doing more—but noticing what’s already there? In this episode of Catching Sunshine, I’m guiding you through a practical, heart-centered approach to finding joy and connection in the middle of everyday life. You’ll learn how to train your awareness (not your willpower) to start noticing the small things that lift your energy and lighten your mood...

Ever wonder why you react one way and your best friend reacts completely differently? The Enneagram might have the answer. In this lighthearted, beginner-friendly episode, I’ll walk you through the 9 Enneagram types—including core motivations, fears, and superpowers—with a few personal stories and insights along the way. Whether you already know your type or you’re brand new to the Enneagram, you’...

Ever wonder how discipline and freedom can possibly go together? In this episode, we’re flipping the script on what discipline really means—and how it can actually create more space, choice, and ease in your life. You’ll hear: 7 fresh insights that offer a new perspective on discipline, 
explore 3 common myths that need debunking, 
and learn 5 helpful and playful ways to make discipline feel light...

Feeling opinion fatigue? In this episode, we explore how to break free from opinion overload through intentional engagement. Discover the liberating truth that you don’t need to form opinions on everything that crosses your path. Learn how selective opinion-forming can create more mental space, deeper relationships, and greater peace in daily life. It’s all about finding freedom in the pause betwe...

Curious what energy healing can actually help with? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing 10 real-life ways it’s helped me — from building confidence and improving relationships to supporting my kids and clients around the world. You’ll also hear 5 powerful reasons why you might want to learn it for yourself — whether it’s to feel more grounded and empowered, support your loved...

Beyond fight, flight, and freeze lies a fourth survival response that might be quietly running your life: fawn. In this episode, discover how people-pleasing is actually a nervous system response and learn the crucial difference between being a peacekeeper (at cost to yourself) versus a true peacemaker. Through real stories and five practical steps, you'll gain the insight to honor your truth whil...

Ready for practical ways to bring micro-adventures into your life? In this follow-up (part two) to last week’s episode, you’ll get specific ideas you can try this week — creative ways to interrupt your routine with something playful, intentional, and just different enough to shift your energy. You’ll also hear tips for tailoring micro-adventures to your personality, and I share a few favorite ways...

Discover the power of micro-adventures – small, intentional moments that lead to significant personal growth. In part one of this special series, learn the science behind why stepping slightly out of your comfort zone creates positive brain changes, hear real-life stories of small adventures with big impacts, and understand how to overcome the natural resistance to trying new things. Begin your jo...

Think you missed your chance? Think again. In this episode, we’re jumping into stories & science about late bloomers and big dreamers, and busting the myth that success has an age limit. From famous late bloomers to practical and psychological advantages of starting later in life, you'll hear why your best chapter might be the one you're just starting. I’ll also share the heartwarming story of...

Ever felt like affirmations just aren’t doing enough for you? Maybe they feel fake, or too far from your current reality. In this episode, I’m walking you through how to craft affirmations that actually work — ones that feel believable, energizing, and aligned with where you’re headed. You’ll learn:     The 8 keys to building affirmations that stick     How...

In this episode of Catching Sunshine , we explore how the words you speak—both to others and to yourself—literally rewire your brain and shape your reality. Carolyn shares real-life stories, research, and science-backed insights to reveal how everyday language impacts your mood, energy, and even your identity. From miscommunications to daily habits like complaining, this episode uncovers the subtl...

Ever find yourself overreacting to something small, like slow Wi-Fi or a missing sock? It might not just be about the sock. The HALT method—which stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired—is a simple but powerful tool to help you check in with your emotional state before reacting. Used by therapists and life coaches, this framework helps you recognize when your basic needs are affecting your mood an...

Lucky breaks aren’t just about chance—they’re about preparation, awareness, and action. In this episode, we explore how people who seem lucky actually create their own opportunities by staying open, saying yes, and putting themselves in the right places. You’ll learn five practical ways to attract and recognize lucky breaks in your own life, so you don’t miss the next big opportunity when it comes...

In this episode of Catching Sunshine , we explore the courageous act of letting go of dreams that no longer align with who we are. While persistence is valuable, holding onto outdated dreams out of habit or identity attachment can actually hold us back. By releasing what no longer serves us, we create space for new opportunities, reimagined passions, and unexpected possibilities. Letting go isn’t...

In this episode of Catching Sunshine , we continue the conversation from How Woo Woo is Too Woo for You? with real-life stories showcasing the surprising power of energy healing. From repairing broken relationships to helping anxious pets, we explore how energy alignment can create unexpected and profound shifts. Whether you’re skeptical or intrigued, this episode offers a look at how energy work...

In this episode of Catching Sunshine , we’re asking the big question: “How woo woo is too woo for you?” Energy healing is a powerful tool for personal growth, but it often comes with misconceptions. Using relatable examples—like clearing out old files on a computer—we explore how unresolved emotions and energetic imbalances can quietly take up space in our lives. Whether you’re skeptical or alread...

In this episode of Catching Sunshine , we explore the power of small actions and how they can create a domino effect of positive change. Inspired by a simple phrase, you can shift your entire mindset from stuck to solution-focused that can truly transform your life. Whether it’s solving a problem, paying kindness forward, or taking the first step toward a goal, one small action can set big things...