Shows
The Distracted Dreamer#39: ‘Hard’ Is Part of the Dream: 6 Mindsets to Keep Going AnywaySend Carlene a textI know what it’s like for the dream to feel so much harder than you imagined. I’ve been there—facing fear, self-doubt, unexpected curveballs, and the deep exhaustion that comes from caring so much. Because the hard parts make you want to throw in the towel, question everything, and wonder if maybe you were wrong for wanting it in the first place. That’s exactly why I wanted to have this conversation with you.Today, I’m opening up about the behind-the-scenes moments of my own dreams and the six mindse...2025-07-2918 minThe Distracted Dreamer#38: When the Parenting Dream Collides with Reality: Letting Go of GuiltSend Carlene a textHave you ever carried that quiet guilt—the kind that whispers you're not doing enough, even when you're doing everything? You're not imagining it. Parenting today asks more of us than ever before—and it’s leaving a lot of us burned out, overwhelmed, and riddled with guilt.I used to think the stress was just part of the job. But then I looked at the numbers. And I realized—this isn't a personal failing. It's a system that’s stacked against us.In this episode, I’m diving into what ha...2025-07-2228 minThe Distracted Dreamer#37: Overthinking Your Dreams? Here’s What Other Dreamers Are Doing InsteadSend Carlene a textWhile you're stuck in your head, someone else is taking the next step toward your dream— or a version of it.I've been there — stuck in my head, overthinking every move, waiting for the perfect moment to start. But this week, I looked around and realized... while I was overthinking my dreams, other dreamers were out there doing the the thing. Planting gardens. Writing books. Starting messy.In this episode, I'm calling out the fear that keeps us stuck and sharing how real peop...2025-07-1312 minThe Distracted Dreamer#36: The 7 D’s: The Secret Distractions That Quietly Detour Your DreamsSend Carlene a textFeeling stuck, scattered, or creatively off track? In this episode, I’m sharing the 7 D’s of distraction—seven sneaky ways we lose focus on our dreams without even realizing it. Distractions aren’t always loud. Sometimes they show up as quiet whispers, gently pulling us away from what matters most. Using a simple self-rating tool, I’ll help you gently name what’s really pulling your attention away. Because when you can name it, you can change it. You’ll leave with more clarity, to help you refocus your...2025-07-0826 minThe Distracted Dreamer#35: Reclaim the Dreams You Tucked Away — Alicia’s Story of Courage and Heart Could Be the Nudge You’ve Been Waiting ForSend Carlene a textIf you’ve ever felt like you missed your chance—or that it’s too late to go after what you really want—this episode is for you. I sat down with Alicia Staley Johnson—a friend, photographer, and creative soul who stopped hiding the most authentic part of herself and reclaimed her dream at 59. She finally went all in on a dream she’d tucked away for years. And WOW... what happened next blew me away.This isn’t just her story—it’s your wake-up call. Her journey is proof tha...2025-06-2451 minThe Distracted Dreamer#34: Why You Compare (and 6 Ways to Use It to Your Advantage)Send Carlene a textHave you ever felt that quiet ache of not measuring up—like you’re always behind, no matter how hard you try? You know those moments where it feels like everyone else is ahead—more successful, more creative, more together?I used to believe that if I just learned more, worked harder, or polished everything to perfection, I’d finally catch up to…well, everyone else. But here’s what I know now: comparison was keeping me stuck. It was robbing me of my voice, my creativity, a...2025-06-1726 minThe Distracted Dreamer#33: Why Adults Stop Dreaming: Healing the Childhood Messages That Keep You SmallSend Carlene a textIf dreaming feels silly, selfish, or out of reach — you’re not alone. In fact, you might just be hearing echoes of childhood messages that told you to stay small, play it safe, and be realistic.The messages we absorbed in childhood — about obedience, achievement, and staying “realistic” — still shape the way we show up as adults.In today’s episode (our first with a guest!), I’m joined by my longtime friend and counselor Becky Stevenson to talk about why adults stop dreaming… and how to get back in tou...2025-06-1046 minThe Distracted Dreamer#32: It's Time to Charge What You're Worth: A Money Mindset Reset for DreamersSend Carlene a textIf you’ve ever whispered, “Who am I to charge for this?” or felt weird about putting a price on your work — this episode is for you.For so many of us creative dreamers — whether you’re offering personal services like coaching, selling a product you dreamed up, or sharing art you’ve poured your heart into — charging can feel deeply personal.In this honest conversation, we’re diving into self-worth, pricing, and the hidden fears that keep so many creatives undercharging. We’ll also explore why underpricing your work isn’t sustainab...2025-06-0325 minThe Distracted Dreamer#31: Can I Be Both? Choosing Your Dreams and Your Family in MidlifeSend Carlene a textIn this episode, I’m sharing a deeply personal moment that brought me face-to-face with a question I know many of us wrestle with: Can I be both? Can I be the mom who shows up, the grandma who’s present, the daughter who cares—and still say yes to my dreams?If you’ve ever felt like just as you were finally making space for your own dreams, life started pulling you in another direction, I see you. I’m right there with you.Today's conversation is like sitting do...2025-05-2719 minThe Distracted Dreamer#30: How to Say No with Confidence (Without Guilt or Apology) and Protect Your Time, Energy, and DreamsSend Carlene a textSaying no is hard.Maybe you’ve felt it too—that tug-of-war between wanting to help and secretly knowing you’re already stretched way too thin. I’ve been there more times than I can count. If you’ve ever struggled to say no because you didn’t want to disappoint someone—you’re not alone.In fact, I’ve had so many of you reach out asking “How the heck do I say no without feeling guilty or ruining relationships?” That’s exactly what we’re talking about today....2025-05-2024 minThe Distracted Dreamer#29: Overthinking Is Killing Your Dreams: 8 Strategies to Break the SpiralSend Carlene a textIn this episode, I’m getting real about something that so many of us silently struggle with—overthinking. You know, those 3 a.m. spirals, the constant “what ifs,” and the endless loops that leave you feeling stuck and drained. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in your head, overanalyzing every decision, replaying conversations, or imagining every possible outcome before you even take the first step—you’re not alone.I’m walking you through the real cost of overthinking (spoiler: it’s your peace, your creativity, and yes—your dream...2025-05-1329 minThe Distracted Dreamer#28: It's Your Turn: Reclaiming Your Dreams After Years of Putting Others FirstSend Carlene a textDownload your guide below 👇Reclaiming Your Dreams Reflection GuideHave you spent years showing up and putting everyone else first - your kids, your partner, your parents - while your own dreams quietly waited in the wings? I get it. Just like you, I'm trying to figure out what this next chapter looks like - this in-between space where we're not quite who we were and not yet sure who we're becoming. What if you didn’t need permission to start again?What if this mo...2025-05-0618 minThe Distracted Dreamer#27: Dreams vs. Goals: Why You Need Both to Build the Life You WantSend Carlene a textToday we’re talking about the real difference between dreams and goals—and why it matters more than you think.These two words are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. In this episode, we’re untangling what dreams truly are (hint: they’re more about who you want to become), what goals really mean (they’re the how), and why gaining clarity between the two can completely shift the way you move through life.We’ll explore:✨ What sets dreams and goals apart—and why...2025-04-2921 minThe Distracted Dreamer#26: Own Your Day, Part 3: How to Build a To-Do List That Actually WorksSend Carlene a textEver stared at a to-do list that somehow made you feel more overwhelmed instead of focused?You’re not alone.For a long time, I thought productivity was about cramming everything into one massive list and just powering through it. But the truth is, your to-do list shouldn't be another source of pressure. It should support you, your goals and your dreams. In this final episode of the Own Your Day series, we’re digging into the real reason most to-do lists don’t work—and how to create...2025-04-2223 minThe Distracted Dreamer#25: Own Your Day, Part 2: The One Thing Stronger than Willpower or Habits to Stay Focused on Your DreamsSend Carlene a textHave you ever had one of those days where you really meant to stay focused… but somehow, your energy vanished, your to-do list exploded, and your day went completely sideways again? Yeah. Me too.For a long time, I thought I just needed more willpower. Or maybe better habits.But here’s the truth: willpower wears out, and even the best habits can fall apart when life gets chaotic.We all want to stay focused, be productive, and actually move forward on the things that matter most...2025-04-1518 minThe Distracted Dreamer#24: Own Your Day, Part 1: 4 Morning Habits that Boost Energy, Focus and MotivationSend Carlene a textLet’s be real—most of us are sabotaging our day before our feet even hit the floor in the morning. 😬 In this episode, I’m breaking down why that happens and exactly how to fix it with four powerful morning shifts that will help you take back control of your time, your energy, and your life.This is Part 1 of my 3-part Own Your Day series, and we’re starting with the foundation: how to control your mornings. I’ll walk you through the four most common ways we...2025-04-0825 minThe Distracted Dreamer#23: My Easy 4-Step Process to Declutter Your Life and Focus on Your Dreams: A Spring Cleaning Guide to Clear Mental Clutter, Reclaim Your Time, and Reset Your GoalsSend Carlene a textI don’t know about you, but I’ve been craving a reset lately. So I did what I always do in the spring—I started tossing stuff. But somewhere between the old jeans and the junk drawer, I realized it’s not just stuff that needs decluttering. I’m walking you through the 4 steps I use to clear out the noise. We're talking about clearing mental and emotional clutter, reclaiming your time, and resetting your goals so you can finally create space for what truly matters—your dreams. If you're read...2025-04-0126 minThe Distracted Dreamer#22: Before You Quit Your Dream, Job, or Relationship: Answer These 5 QuestionsSend Carlene a textHave you ever felt that nudge to walk away — from a dream, job, or even a relationship — but weren’t sure if it was the right move? In this episode, I’m sharing five powerful questions that have helped me figure out when it’s time to quit... and when it’s time to keep going. We’re diving into those sticky in-between moments where doubt, burnout, and frustration creep in. Whether you're thinking about quitting your job, ending a project, or stepping away from something that used to bring you joy, these questions will...2025-03-2523 minThe Distracted Dreamer#21: Why We Fear Success: And How to Move Past Imposter SyndromeSend Carlene a textEver feel like just as things are going right, you start doubting yourself? Like you’ve worked so hard for success, but suddenly, it feels overwhelming—or even scary? You’re not alone.We spend so much time working toward our dreams—so why does success sometimes feel terrifying? In this episode, we’re diving deep into the unexpected ways imposter syndrome shows up when we finally start achieving what we’ve worked so hard for. You’ll learn why self-doubt increases with success, how our brains interpret growth as a threat, and wh...2025-03-1821 minThe Distracted Dreamer#20: Fear of Rejection Stops Here: How to Move Forward with ConfidenceSend Carlene a textMel Robbins: The Let Them TheoryIs the fear of rejection keeping you stuck? Does the thought of hearing "no" stop you from going after what you truly want? You’re not alone. And when you learn to reframe rejection, you can move forward with confidence instead of fear.In this episode, we’re breaking down how to stop taking rejection personally, reframe setbacks as opportunities, and build unshakable confidence. Learn practical techniques including Mel Robbins' 'Let Them Theory' and gain inspiration from Sarah Blakely, Spanx founder, on m...2025-03-1129 minThe Distracted Dreamer#19: Stop Doing It Alone: How to Find Supportive Friends & Build Your Dream CommunitySend Carlene a textHave you ever reached a huge milestone and realized you had no one to truly celebrate with? Loneliness is real—but you don’t have to go through life alone. Whether you’re chasing a big dream, starting a business, or just craving deeper connections, you’ll learn how to find your people, build meaningful relationships, and create a circle of support—and stop feeling isolated. I’ll share personal stories, real-life strategies, and a simple mindset shift that can change everything. If you’ve ever felt like no one tru...2025-03-0427 minThe Distracted Dreamer#18: The Habit of Self-Doubt: Why You Keep Second-Guessing YourselfSend Carlene a textEver find yourself trapped in a cycle of second-guessing every decision, big or small? I get it. Self-doubt sneaks in and suddenly, you’re overthinking or playing small because you don't trust yourself. But here’s the truth: self-doubt is a habit—and like any habit, you can break it. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the three self-doubt mind traps that keep us stuck and the simple shifts that can get you moving forward with confidence. Plus, I’ve created a quick quiz to help you identify your personal self-doubt trap, so yo...2025-02-2528 minThe Distracted Dreamer#17: Feeling Drained? How to Recognize, Prevent and Recover from BurnoutSend Carlene a textBurnout isn’t just about long hours—it’s about how we think about our work, stress, and responsibilities. If you’ve been feeling emotionally exhausted, physically drained, or stuck in a cycle of stress, I want you to know there’s a way out. In this episode, I’ll help you recognize the signs of burnout, understand what’s really causing it, and give you practical steps to recover. I’ve been there before, and now I’m sharing what truly works to reset your energy, prevent burnout, and create a life that fuels you ins...2025-02-1836 minThe Distracted Dreamer#16: The Truth About Distractions: What's Really Stealing Your Focus?Send Carlene a textAre distractions keeping you from making real progress on your goals? What if I told you that managing distractions isn’t about eliminating them—it’s about making sure they don’t control you? In this episode, I break down three powerful tools to help you take back control, protect your focus, and create real traction toward your dreams. We’ll explore a mindset shift that changes everything, how to set boundaries that actually work, and a simple strategy to plan for the unexpected. If you’re tired of feeling pulled in a million direc...2025-02-1123 minThe Distracted Dreamer#15: Ditch Perfectionism: Break Free from the All or Nothing MindsetSend Carlene a textHave you ever told yourself, “If I can’t do it perfectly, I won’t do it at all”? Yeah, me too. But here’s the truth: that all-or-nothing mindset is keeping you stuck. It convinces you to wait for the perfect moment—the perfect plan, the perfect idea, the perfect circumstances—that never actually come. So, what happens? You don’t start. You don’t move forward. You stay in the same place, frustrated and overwhelmed.In this episode, I’m sharing how I’ve learned to let go of perfectionism, embrace...2025-02-0425 minThe Distracted Dreamer#14: Why You Suck at New Things (and Why it Doesn't Matter)Send Carlene a textWe all have that voice in our head that says, “What if I’m terrible at this?” I’m here to tell you that you probably will be—and that’s totally okay! In this episode, I’ll reveal six truths about getting good at anything, from why your first attempt will feel cringeworthy to how small daily habits create unstoppable momentum. Whether you’re a perfectionist, a procrastinator, or just plain scared to start, this episode will give you the courage to take that first step forward on that project, change careers or chase your li...2025-01-2817 minThe Distracted Dreamer#13: Letting Go and Leaning In: Brain-Friendly Habits for 2025Send Carlene a textIn this episode, I’m sharing my personal list of ins and outs for 2025—what I’m lovingly leaving behind and what I’m doubling down on to protect my energy, focus, and peace. As I walk you through these shifts, I want you to think about your own intentions. What do you want to let go of? What new habits will help you show up as your best self? What do you need to feel supported this year? Grab a pen and paper, dreamers, and capture your ins and outs for the year. The...2025-01-2115 minThe Distracted Dreamer#12: 7 Playful Strategies to Make Goal-Setting Fun and Stress-Free This YearSend Carlene a text**Click Here to Join the VIP WAITLIST for the Goals That Actually Stick Workshop: From Dreaming To DoingSetting goals for the year can feel exciting—but also a little overwhelming, right? In this episode, I’m sharing 7 playful strategies that helped me stop over-complicating the process and start enjoying it. We’ll talk about shifting from “fixing” to “creating,” why you might want to keep new goals to yourself (at least at first), and how to embrace failure as part of the journey. These tips will help you bring more ease...2025-01-1423 minThe Distracted Dreamer#11: You're Never to Old To Chase Your Dreams: A Guide to Taking ActionSend Carlene a text**Click Here to Join the VIP WAITLIST for the Goals That Actually Stick Workshop: From Dreaming To DoingFeeling like it's too late to start something new? Think again. Age is just a number when it comes to chasing dreams. In this episode, we break down the barriers that hold many back from pursuing their dreams later in life. Learn how to combat self-doubt, stay motivated, and take consistent action toward your dreams. Tune in for insights into shifting your mindset, encouragement, strategies, and a reminder that i...2025-01-0619 minThe Distracted Dreamer#10: Why I Don't Set Goals January 1st (And What I Do Instead)Send Carlene a text**Click Here to Join the VIP WAITLIST for the Goals That Actually Stick Workshop: From Dreaming To DoingSick of the January 1st goal-setting hype? On this episode of The Distracted Dreamer, I share three surprising things I don’t do as a coach when it comes to setting goals. Learn why January 1st is not the magic start date, how to avoid the burnout of tackling too much at once, and why flexible intentions beat rigid resolutions every time. Plus, find out how to join my upco...2024-12-3115 minThe Distracted Dreamer#9: Your Word for 2025: A Guide to Find It, Define It and Live ItSend Carlene a textDiscover Your Word of the Year for 2025: A Guide to Staying Focused and MotivatedIn this episode of the Distracted Dreamer Podcast, I discuss the powerful practice of choosing a word of the year to guide and inspire you throughout 2025. Instead of setting traditional New Year's resolutions, learn how a single word can provide focus, clarity, emotional connection, and a constant reminder of your goals. Follow my five-step process to find the right word for you and discover how to integrate it into your daily life to stay motivated and aligned...2024-12-2319 minThe Distracted Dreamer#8: 4 Signs You Could Be Betraying Your DreamsSend Carlene a textLinks from this episode:Take the Quiz: What's Your Dream Personality Type?In this episode of the Distracted Dreamer Podcast, I talk about four signs that could indicate you're losing sight of your dreams and how to combat those feelings. I start by sharing common experiences of feeling stuck and offer the first step: self-awareness. You'll learn how to identify and address feelings of sluggishness, reliance on unhealthy habits, a sense of time slipping by, and daily dread. By recognizing these signs, you can...2024-12-1726 minThe Distracted Dreamer#7: Why Your Inner Critic Is THE Key to Achieving Your DreamsSend Carlene a textLinks from this episode:Take the Quiz: What's Your Dream Personality Type?Does your inner critic constantly hold you back? It doesn't haven't be your biggest enemy. It can be your greatest ally - if you know how to use it wisely. In this transformative episode, we break down actionable strategies to uncover your inner critic, quiet its negativity, and channel its strengths into helping you refine your work and pursue your biggest dreams. Packed with practical steps and real-life examples, this episode will...2024-12-1023 minThe Distracted Dreamer#6: We've Got Motivation All Wrong: 2 Surprising Ways to Unlock It and Sustain Your DriveSend Carlene a textIn this episode of the Distracted Dreamer podcast, I discuss how to overcome the lack of motivation that keeps many from pursuing their dreams. I highlight the two primary reasons people struggle with motivation: waiting for it to find them and relying on external motivators. You'll learn 5 simple strategies to help you take that first step on your dreams even when motivation seems so far out of reach. We won't stop there. You'll also learn how to tap into your most powerful internal motivator, your WHY. Never again will you say you can't do...2024-12-0326 minThe Distracted Dreamer#5: 3 Steps to Hit Pause on Your Dreams - Guilt-FreeSend Carlene a textSometimes life gets busy, and it feels impossible to keep up with everything—including your dreams. But hitting pause doesn’t mean you’re giving up. In this episode, I’ll share three simple yet powerful steps to take a break from your dreams without losing the progress you’ve made.Learn how to intentionally pause in a way that preserves your momentum, keeps you motivated, and sets you up for success when you're ready to dive back in. Whether you’re facing a hectic season or simply need a breat...2024-11-2624 minThe Distracted Dreamer#4: Living Your Fear Or Your Dream? It's Time To DecideSend Carlene a textI had a wake-up call in 2023 that reminded me just how precious time is. In this very vulnerable episode, I open up about my experience with a breast cancer diagnosis and how it gave me the courage to stop letting fear dictate my choices. I share what fear looked like for me, and how I finally chose to push forward anyway. You’ll learn why fear doesn’t have to disappear for you to move forward—and how even small, consistent actions can lead you toward a life aligned with your dreams. If you’ve...2024-11-1816 min