Be the Sun, Not the Salt

Connie Fontaine and Harry Cohen, PhD
  • 4.6 (20)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The "Be the Sun, Not the Salt” podcast will inspire you, equip you, and remind you HOW to be the better version of yourself - you already know WHY you should be. Dr. Harry Cohen, an unconventional shrink, and his co-host, innovative marketer Connie Fontaine, will interview famous and not-so-famous guests who make being the Sun, and not the Salt, a daily practice. This podcast is based on the tips from the book, "Be the Sun, Not the Salt."

  1. #71 How Do I... Age Without Becoming My Worst Self?

    10H AGO

    #71 How Do I... Age Without Becoming My Worst Self?

    Ever wonder why some people get grumpier, judgier, and more insufferable as they age and vow never to become that person? In this hilariously honest "How Do I…" episode of *Be the Sun, Not the Salt*, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine get real about the aging process and their mission to become wise, not just old (and cranky). Here's what you'll hear:   Harry's confession about being a "wisdom dispensary machine" and why his son basically told him to zip it during a life coaching moment  Connie's cookie incident with her eight-months-pregnant daughter (spoiler: it involved immediate regret)  Why Harry dreams of being the Dalai Lama everyone wants to invite over, not the boring enlightenment guy who drones on about chia seeds  The "advice machine" epidemic plaguing well-meaning older people everywhere (and how to shut yours off)  How Harry's 77-year-old sister is learning to bite her tongue at soccer games (thanks, Mel Robbins!)  Their pledge to be the kind of people their kids actually want to hang out with, not the kind they tolerate out of obligation  The art of saying "You're right, I'm sorry" without adding seventeen justifications  If you're committed to aging like fine wine instead of sour milk, this episode is your guide to becoming the cool elder everyone hopes you'll be, not the one they avoid at family gatherings. Tune in for laughs, wisdom, and a healthy dose of self-awareness about the fine art of growing older without becoming insufferable. To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    8 min

  2. OCT 30

    #70 It's Possible: Lessons in Gratitude with Curt Menefee

    What does it take to thrive under pressure in the fast-paced world of sports broadcasting… and beyond? In this episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine sit down with Curt Menefee, award-winning sports anchor and commentator, to explore resilience, authenticity, and staying true to your values no matter the spotlight. Here’s what you’ll hear:   Curt’s perspective on becoming a leading voice on national sports stages  How preparation, empathy, and genuine connection fuel his confidence on and off the air  The role of humility, perseverance, and family grounding Curt through life’s ups and downs  Lessons learned from career pivots, challenges, and the importance of mentoring others around youHow being your best self can help others to become their best self, tooWhy being emotionally present and vulnerable can be a game-changer in high-pressure careers  Thoughtful reflections on authenticity, and how to bring your real self to a complex, demanding role  Inspiring stories about community, gratitude, and the power of showing love even in tough situations  If you’re looking for candid wisdom from a true pro who knows what it means to be both a leader and a human being, this episode delivers heartfelt insights that illuminate how to bring more light, purpose, and optimism into your own game, while proving success is about much more than talent. It’s about heart, grit, and showing up as yourself every day. This guest episode is perfect for sports fans, media professionals, leaders, and anyone wanting to cultivate gratitude and authenticity in their life.  To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    39 min
  3. How Do I... Keep My Cool When Things Are Coming at Me Fast and Furious?

    OCT 23

    How Do I... Keep My Cool When Things Are Coming at Me Fast and Furious?

    Ever feel like everything’s coming at you a mile a minute—and you’re about to lose your cool? In this relatable “How Do I…” episode of *Be the Sun, Not the Salt*, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine break down how to stay heliotropic (and human) when life gets fast, furious, and just a little overwhelming. Here’s what you’ll hear: Why your breath might be your secret weapon for holding it all together  The surprising impact your “game face” can have on those around you (and how to use it for good)  What we can learn from true pros at grace under pressure, and the power of watching and borrowing their moves  How to check your words and your mindset before chaos turns contagious  Why it helps to remember “this too shall pass” and the value of looking back at your own resilience  Gentle nudge: there’s no perfect formula, so experiment, get a little better each time, and don’t go it alone  If you’re juggling a thousand things or working in the heat of battle, this episode is filled with practical encouragement, honest stories, and a little laughter to help you breathe, reset, and get through whatever’s next. This mini “How Do I…” episode is perfect for anyone handling tough seasons, workplace rush, parenting whirlwinds, or just the general chaos of life.  Tune in and share the episode with someone who could use a little sunshine—right when it matters most. To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    8 min
  4. #68 How Do I... Support Someone Through Illness or Loss?

    OCT 16

    #68 How Do I... Support Someone Through Illness or Loss?

    When someone you care about is facing illness or loss, it’s easy to feel unsure about what to say or do. In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine open up about the small, thoughtful ways we can support people during life’s hardest chapters—without overthinking or making it about us. Here’s what you’ll hear: Why “just being there” often means more than grand gestures (and what that looks like in real life)The gift of listening without advice or platitudes, and how it helps build trustHow to check in gently and let someone know you’re thinking of them, even when words feel inadequateA few big “don’ts” we often put on the people we want to help without realizing itHow embracing small, specific acts of kindness are often better than grand gesturesWhy appreciating the chance to show up as a caregiver or friend is a powerful reframing for both peopleReal reminders that a little humility can go a long wayIf you’re looking for practical, heart-centered ways to support loved ones through the messiness of illness or grief, this episode shares the guidance, encouragement, and honest perspective you need. Tune in for gentle wisdom and stories to keep you grounded, and connected, when it matters most. To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    10 min
  5. #67 How Do I... Handle Criticism Without Getting Defensive?

    OCT 9

    #67 How Do I... Handle Criticism Without Getting Defensive?

    Ever feel that sting when someone gives you criticism, even when you know it’s supposed to help? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine take on the surprisingly tough (and super common) challenge of handling feedback without letting defensiveness take over. Here’s what you’ll hear: Why even the kindest of us can get prickly when criticism comes our waySimple moves that can turn a tough conversation into a personal growth momentReal talk about the magic of pausing, breathing, and saying “thank you” (even when it’s hard)How to spot the gold in critical feedback, without letting a single comment ruin your whole dayWhat to do when feedback feels overwhelming, and how to come back to the conversation when you’re readyWhy gratitude - genuine, not forced - leaves both sides feeling respected and seenThoughtful ways to ask questions and clarify so you actually get value from what you hearPractical reminders that you don’t have to have the perfect reaction in the moment (and that’s okay)If you’re working on being less reactive and more open, or just want a little encouragement to take feedback in stride, this episode is for you. (This mini “How Do I…” episode is perfect for anyone who’s ever bristled at feedback, wants to show up as their best self, or just needs a little help finding the lessons in critique.)  Want more? Get a copy of the book here. To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    9 min
  6. #66 How Do I... Teach My Children to Be Heliotropic?

    OCT 2

    #66 How Do I... Teach My Children to Be Heliotropic?

    Ever wonder how to help the children in your life grow into positive, compassionate, and resilient individuals… the kind of people who naturally bring light to those around them? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into what it really takes to teach kids to be heliotropic. Here’s what you’ll hear: Why modeling positivity and practicing it yourself is the foundation when raising children who radiate warmth and kindnessHonest reflections on the messy journey of parenting, including moments we wish we could redo and how to keep improving no matter your kids’ agesThe surprising ways everyday moments shape how children see themselves and othersWhat it means to show up authentically as a parent—even when you don’t have all the answersHow to navigate the tricky balance of encouragement, boundaries, and emotional honestyInsights about the “salt on the roots” metaphor and what it means for your unique family dynamicsWhy apologizing and cleaning up when you mess up is one of the best lessons you can pass onHow little acts of recognition can have outsized impact on a child’s confidence and characterIf you’re curious about raising kids who don’t just survive but thrive with warmth and resilience, this mini-episode offers real talk, gentle guidance, and moments of humor to help you be a little sun, not the salt in your home and your heart. To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    10 min
  7. #65 How Do I... Let Go of a Grudge?

    SEP 25

    #65 How Do I... Let Go of a Grudge?

    Ever feel stuck holding onto a grudge and know it’s zapping your energy? In this “How Do I…” episode of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt,” Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine get real about the challenge of letting go - why so many of us find it hard, how resentment keeps us stuck, and what it actually takes to move on. Here’s what you’ll hear: Why holding a grudge is like clutching a hot coal: you’re the one getting burnedHow compassion (not just forgiveness) can help shift your perspective and lighten your loadSimple reframes and honest reflections about what it means to let go (and why releasing resentment doesn’t mean you’re not protecting your own roots)Lessons learned from guests who’ve faced the unimaginable and found a way to release the pain, including stories like Trinea Gonczar’s courageous path to healing and forgivenessA candid invitation to look at what you’re carrying, ask “Who is this serving?” and consider ways to release old baggage, one conversation, thought, or act at a timeIf you’re ready to drop what’s weighing you down, find a little more peace, and make room for good energy, this mini episode offers humor, hope, and some gentle nudges toward freedom. Tune in for honest conversation, practical perspective, and a call to let go - just a little - today. (Mini “How Do I…” episode—perfect for anyone navigating tough relationships, struggling with resentment, or committed to growing wiser, not just older.)  Useful Links Trinea Gonczar’s “Be the Sun, Not the Salt” episode “Be the Sun, Not the Salt” book To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    8 min
  8. #64 How Do I... Show Up Well When I'm Going Through a Difficult Time?

    SEP 18

    #64 How Do I... Show Up Well When I'm Going Through a Difficult Time?

    Ever wonder how to bring your best self to work or home… even when life is just not going your way? In this heartfelt “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into the messy, honest art of showing up well when you’re going through a difficult time. Here’s what you’ll hear: Why naming what you’re going through (even if it feels uncomfortable) can strengthen trust, connection, and ease in relationshipsThe power of authentic vulnerability: letting others in without making excuses, and finding support you didn’t know you neededSimple ways to communicate your struggles at work, with family, or in your community, and why a follow-up apology or explanation can make a lasting impactHow self-awareness and courage build a bridge for others to share their own tough moments, creating a little more heliotropic energy all aroundIf you’ve ever tried to “just keep it together” and felt more isolated, this episode is your open invitation to lighten the load—and maybe help someone else feel seen too. Want more? Listen to past episodes with guests who’ve been through the tough stuff: Jill Martin shares her journey through major medical challenges and how she found hope, light, and community along the way.Dr. Rana Awdish opens up about her own health crisis as a physician, the healing power of authentic connection, and what it means to truly show up for others in dark times.This “How Do I…” episode is perfect for anyone navigating emotional or physical hardship, wanting more connection, or just ready to be real. Tune in for honest stories, helpful tips, and reminders that we’re all in this together… especially when times are tough. To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    8 min
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Trailer

4.6
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

The "Be the Sun, Not the Salt” podcast will inspire you, equip you, and remind you HOW to be the better version of yourself - you already know WHY you should be. Dr. Harry Cohen, an unconventional shrink, and his co-host, innovative marketer Connie Fontaine, will interview famous and not-so-famous guests who make being the Sun, and not the Salt, a daily practice. This podcast is based on the tips from the book, "Be the Sun, Not the Salt."

Information

  • Creator
    Connie Fontaine and Harry Cohen, PhD
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Be the Sun, Not the Salt
  • Show Website
    Be the Sun, Not the Salt

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