Connections in the Chaos

Jessica & Sara
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Self-Improvement

Connections in the Chaos is a podcast about the beautiful, exhausting, meaningful work of being human — in relationships, in parenthood, in purpose, and in the quiet moments when you wonder if you're doing any of it right. Hosted by Jessica and Sara (BFFs) — two 45-year-old moms with full time careers outside the home(s), four three-season sports kids between them, and a friendship they found at 39 that changed everything — this podcast is where real life meets intentional living. Together they've done the work: the hard conversations, the identity shifts, the oh-that's-why-I-do-that moments. And they're bringing all of it here. Rooted in nonviolent communication, emotional intelligence, and the radical belief that most conflict comes down to communication and unmet needs, each episode threads the chaos of the week into something you can actually use. Because when people can name what they feel and ask for what they need, everything changes

Episodes

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 6 Unedited - Show Up - What Live Music Teaches Us About Being Present, Together

    We are back from a hiatus and relearning how to record, there are long moments of pause because microphones were muted, moments of loud voices and lots of what seems like mumbling - thank you for your patience while we re-enter the podcast world! In this episode, Jessica and Sara share candid reflections on their recent experiences with music, family outings, and personal growth. From concerts and parenting disagreements to self-talk and transitional chaos, they offer honest insights and laughs along the way. Main Topics Covered: The significance of live music in shaping memories and emotionsPersonal struggles with negative self-talk and naming internal dialoguesCelebrating small victories, like school milestones and tooth lossTransition challenges and embracing self-awareness during changeThe collective power of music to foster connection and dopamine release References: Paul Simon - Official WebsiteDave Matthews Band - Official SiteBen Harper Brandi CarlisleWicked - For GoodStevie WonderWoodstock 99Jack JohnsonThe Tragically HipClosing music by Andrew GuerardMusic licensed through Soundstripe. - Code: V0SW5MUHNH3IZBLW

  2. Jun 5

    Curious About You Part Two

    Jessica and Sara dive into Part 2 of curiosity with a thread that hits close to home: what happens when you get genuinely curious about you? From listener questions that sparked real conversation to song lyrics that cracked them both open, this episode is honest, warm, and a little bit pickled.  In this episode: Self-curiosity as the foundation of connection — and what gets in the wayWhy honesty in friendship isn't something you negotiate, it's something you commit toThe difference between a coach, a friend, and just needing timeWhat we don't say on the podcast (short fuses, anyone?)The "gasoline or water" framework for navigating big feelings in real time Timestamps:  00:42 - Course Correct 05:11 - Shout Outs 05:51 - Chaos Report 12:42 - The Thread - Listener Questions 37:13 - Song Lyrics 42:34 - Tool & Takeaway 47:25 - Closing: Positive pickles Resources & Links: Cathy Lemire - Financial CoachingExcellence Actually - Gas or FireThe Tragically Hip - FireworksEric Church - Smoke a Little SmokeTom Petty - I Won't Back DownTenille Townes - Girl Who Didn’t CarePositive Pickle Jar Closing music by Andrew J. GuerardYoutube musical attribution: KLBL6VWYRJHB7QFS, HX3A8ERY0SAPX7EX Send us your reflections, your mirror questions, or your experiment results to connectionsinthechaos@gmail.com -  we'd love to hear what you notice.

  3. May 22

    Just Ask - The Power of Curiosity and How Questions Can Change Us

    Just Ask: The Power of Curiosity & How Questions Can Change Us Dive into this episode where Jessica and Sara explore the transformative power of curiosity amid life's chaos. Discover how questions shift perspectives, nurture connection, and foster self-awareness. Timestamps: 0:12 Check in 2:50 Course correct 4:17 Shout out 6:09 Chaos report 25:33 Thread - question game 1:00:57 Song lyric 1:05:02 Tool & Take away 1:08:45 Positive Pickle Links: Cathy Lemire - Financial CoachGood Leaders Ask Great QuestionsThe One You FeedDr. Becky KennedyBrené Brown on Vulnerability and Courage Life Coach CertificationThe Tragically HipMaren MorrisClosing music - Andrew Guerard Send us your questions at connectionsinthechaos@gmail.com Join us for Part II on 6/5

  4. May 8

    Busy isn't a badge, is it a barrier?

    Busy isn’t a badge, is it a barrier? In this episode of Connections in the Chaos, Jessica and Sara share candid reflections on how busyness is showing up in their lives. They explore the emotional toll of change, the importance of boundaries, and strategies to reconnect with themselves amid chaos. Plus, heartfelt gratitude and a touch of humor to end the episode. Topics: How busyness serves as a protective shield and its emotional impactsNavigating major life changes and maintaining self-awarenessThe societal pressure on women to manage everything perfectlyPractical ways to set boundaries and reframe busynessThe role of creative time and solitude in well-being Resources & Links: Supply and Demand by Amos Lee The Tragically Hip - ScaredDave Matthews Band - "So Damn Lucky"Positive Pickle JarPodcast lightTed LassoRemember, busyness can be a choice and/or a strategy.  Being intentional about where you invest your time and energy can help with how it shows up for you. Thanks for listening!

  5. Apr 17

    Plot Twist (Again)

    Episode 2 - Plot Twist (Again) Join Jessica and Sara as they navigate the ups and downs of change, emotion, and resilience through personal stories, song lyrics, and practical insights. This episode highlights embracing plot twists, pivoting on the fly, and finding gratitude amidst chaos. In this episode: The power of words and song lyrics to express feelings during transitionsHow to reframe unexpected challenges as opportunities for growthPractical tools for pivoting quickly and managing big emotions in real-timeThe difference between adapting to change versus just surviving itThe significance of curiosity and control in navigating life's plot twistsParenting surprises and the lessons learned from sports and school activitiesThe importance of honesty, support, and gratitude in friendships facing changeResources & Links The Pivot YearThe Tragically Hip - Grace, TooTalking Heads - Psycho KillerThe Tragically Hip - CourageTaylor Swift - Life of a ShowgirlBrandi Carlile - Returning to MyselfNonviolent CommunicationMaine HoopsClosing music by Andrew J. Guerard Timestamps: 00:00 - Episode intro: Navigating chaos with resilience 00:22 - Jessica shares her current emotional state: disappointed and confident 00:35 - Sara's overwhelmed feelings and horizon excitement 01:22 - Introduction of the "Course Correct" segment: Reflecting on past episodes 04:14 - Recognizing life's challenges as lessons in disguise 08:43 - Tools for resetting: Explicit words and actions 09:45 - Processing emotions after pivots and shifts in perspective 10:14 - The ongoing roller coaster of feelings and busy days 11:41 - Parental surprises: Registration mishaps and last-minute pivots 15:33 - Extra responses: Fight, Fawn, Flop, and more emotional regulation options 16:04 - Leaning into waves: The importance of curiosity and reframing change 17:12 - Differences between adapting and surviving change 21:07 - Acknowledging difficult, pivotal moments of change in relationships 30:13 - Connecting through music and lyrics: The language of change 41:51 - Practical steps for listeners: Breath, curiosity, and perspective 50:30 - The baseball and basketball stories: Everyday chaos and plot twists 54:50 - Sign-off: Embracing chaos together with gratitude and humor

  6. Apr 10

    Right on Time (Even When It Doesn't Feel Like It)

    The conversation explores the importance of self-awareness and internal alignment, especially in the face of life's chaos. Sara and Jessica chat about the challenges of parenting, the significance of values and growth, and the impact of timing. The theme of empowerment and resilience is also highlighted through song lyrics and personal reflections. The conversation covers topics such as paradoxical performers, humorous conversations, setting boundaries, embracing curiosity, and self-reflection. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and self-reflection in conversations and interactions with others. Takeaways Self-awareness is a key to navigating life's chaosFinding calm in the midst of chaos Setting boundaries in conversationsThe importance of self-awareness and self-reflection Chapters 00:00 Check-In: Paradoxical Feelings10:07 Internal Alignment and Self-Awareness16:54 Values and Growth21:57 Finding Calm in Chaos27:25 Paradoxical Performers Resources & Links Brandi Carlile - The EyeLizzie Lizzo - About Damn TimeThe Tragically Hip - Ahead by a CenturyThe Adjustment Bureau (2000s)Brene Brown on Values and AuthenticityKaleo - All the ThingsGood & PlentyThe Cutting EdgePretty WomanClosing music by Andrew J. Guerard  Thank you for listening to Connections in the Chaos—dedicated to finding peace within life’s unpredictable moments, one self-aware step at a time.

  7. Apr 3

    How Finding Each Other Helped Us Embrace Who We're Becoming

    Key Topics: Navigating change and tension between who we've been and who we're becomingThe power of unconditional acceptance and honest communicationSilly and profound memories that cement lifelong friendshipIdeas around creativity, fear, and trusting oneself, inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert's Big MagicThe significance of feelings, needs, and nonviolent communication in personal growthBalancing life's chaos through reflection, connection, and playful celebrations like plans for cheese balls and camper adventures Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing the podcast and its heartfelt mission 00:34 - Checking in: Showing up tired yet excited for new beginnings 02:23 - Facing tension during transition: Starting a new job amidst self-doubt 02:53 - Trusting intuition and embracing joy despite fears 04:17 - Allowing creativity and overcoming fears of failure 06:41 - Celebrating friendship as a source of unconditional acceptance and honesty 08:17 - How they met, their COVID-era friendship, and shared memories 12:05 - The importance of early connections and shared experiences during isolation 15:16 - Reflecting on friendship milestones, mutual support, and future adventures 20:04 - Exploring the roles of leadership and authenticity in their careers 26:30 - How professional roles mirror their values and personalities Resources & Links: Big Magic by Elizabeth GilbertNonviolent Communication by Marshall RosenbergDave Matthews BandUtz Cheese BallsThe Tragically HipUTZ CheeseballsCara Dyke Photography (photo art)

    How Finding Each Other Helped Us Embrace Who We're Becoming

  8. Season 1, Episode 1 Trailer

    Trailer

    Many of us are surviving, not thriving — juggling endless schedules, overwhelmed by chaos, and feeling like we're missing the real connections. What if the secret to transforming your relationships and rediscovering yourself isn’t about doing more, but about understanding the small, seismic moments that crack everything open? Jessica and Sara, BFFs navigating the chaos of life at 45, share how the tiniest conversations — whether in parking lots or voice memos — can unlock profound love, support, and acceptance you didn't even know was possible. They reveal the real power of honest communication, self-awareness, and embracing the messy feelings we often ignore. You’ll discover how unspoken needs and unresolved emotions create chaos — and how naming those feelings is the first step to genuine connection. Jessica and Sara share stories from their own journeys, including the surprising ways tiny moments have transformed their friendships and their lives, proving that you don't have to have everything figured out to find belonging. You'll learn practical insights like how to identify unmet needs, the importance of vulnerability in building trust, and simple tools to bring more honesty and compassion into your everyday interactions. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities or longing for deeper relationships, this podcast offers a roadmap to less chaos and more meaningful connection. By embracing the small cracks in your life, you open the door to authentic love and support that can change everything. This is essential listening for anyone tired of feeling alone in the chaos — because real connection starts with YOU. Tune in and discover how the tiniest moments can crack your world wide open.

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Connections in the Chaos is a podcast about the beautiful, exhausting, meaningful work of being human — in relationships, in parenthood, in purpose, and in the quiet moments when you wonder if you're doing any of it right. Hosted by Jessica and Sara (BFFs) — two 45-year-old moms with full time careers outside the home(s), four three-season sports kids between them, and a friendship they found at 39 that changed everything — this podcast is where real life meets intentional living. Together they've done the work: the hard conversations, the identity shifts, the oh-that's-why-I-do-that moments. And they're bringing all of it here. Rooted in nonviolent communication, emotional intelligence, and the radical belief that most conflict comes down to communication and unmet needs, each episode threads the chaos of the week into something you can actually use. Because when people can name what they feel and ask for what they need, everything changes

Information

  • Creator
    Jessica & Sara
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jessica & Sara
  • Show Website
    Connections in the Chaos