In this episode of The Mom's Adventure Paradox, I reflect on the power of humor—especially in the messiness of parenting and real life. I kick things off with a live stream moment when I discovered toothpaste on my hairbrush during a team meeting… courtesy of my kids’ April Fool's prank. That launched me into a bigger conversation: when do we know the joke is over?

I share some personal stories—like a cringey-but-funny moment from my river guiding days involving a Boy Scout joke that definitely did not land with every audience. It was a reminder that context matters. Humor is a great teacher of timing, audience awareness, and knowing when to pivot.

I also talk about my brief (and very amateur) foray into stand-up comedy and what I learned about pacing, punchlines, and the moment humor falls flat. Whether you're parenting, podcasting, or running a business, there's a season for everything—including the jokes that no longer serve us.

I wrap things up by sharing a sweet Mother’s Day card I found while cleaning out my desk, and reflecting on the joy, chaos, and beauty of it all. Sometimes, when we clear out the old, we make space for the magic to return—even if it’s in the form of gummy candy and double-sided tape.

"Laughter is the shortest distance between two people." - Victor Borge

Key Takeaways:

Humor has its limits—know when to stop.

• Whether it’s a prank or a punchline, timing and audience matter. Not every joke lands, and that’s okay—part of growth is learning from what doesn’t work.

Jokes can teach us about boundaries.

• From toothpaste on a hairbrush to telling off-color jokes in the wrong crowd, humor often highlights the importance of reading the room.

Faith often follows fear.

• Big moves or creative leaps rarely feel "ready." Courage often shows up first, and faith comes after we've stepped out.

Small joys bring clarity.

• Cleaning out a desk or rediscovering a sweet card from your child can realign you with what really matters.

It’s okay to let go of what’s not serving you.

• Like clearing away the sticky tape on light switches, making space helps new, more joyful things come in.

Be sure to check out my interview on the Courageous Women Rise Summit: https://courageouswomenrise.com/Cat

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catcaldwellmyers@gmail.com

In this live minisode, I reflect on the often-overlooked power of the pause—those moments when life invites us to slow down, listen, and just be. Whether it’s an unexpected snowstorm, a literal stop on a canyon road, or simply the hum of a washing machine in the background, I explore how pauses shape our growth, creativity, and clarity.

I talk about the difference between a pause and a full stop, and how even brief moments of stillness can help us course-correct, especially during seasonal transitions like spring. I also share personal stories about backcountry skiing, horse riding, and how I create space for quiet—even amidst the chaos of home life.

✨ Key Takeaways

• 🟡 Pause like a yellow light – It's not about stopping; it's about checking in before you proceed.
• 🧘‍♀️ Intentional silence is powerful – Whether it's natural quiet in the forest or noise-canceling headphones, silence creates space for reflection.
• ❄️ Nature forces us to pause – Snowstorms and wild weather remind us that slowing down is sometimes out of our control—but always valuable.
• 🔥 Surround yourself with idea-fueling friends – Choose people who add to your energy, not drain it.
• 🌱 You're always becoming – Every pause is a threshold into a new version of you. Embrace it.

🎧 Podcasts I Recommend

John Acuff – All It Takes Is a Goal Podcast

Mini-episode I loved: Friends Who Fuel vs. Friends Who Douse Your Dreams

(Feel free to share others with me! I love discovering new inspiring voices.)

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In this short and humorous minisode of The Mom’s Adventure Paradox, I dive into the theme: “Yeah, but does it turn you on?” — not in a risqué way, but in the sense of what lights you up in life. I reflect on a technical hiccup (being muted on Zoom), the value of having guests who keep you accountable, and the joy of engaging in things that truly excite you.

I share a story about working with my horse, Jet — how even the things we love most can sometimes be frustrating. But that’s okay. Passion isn’t about feeling good all the time; it’s about the deeper connection, joy, and purpose.

I dive into what lights me up — like podcasting and hearing mind-expanding stories (yes, even one about water freezing in the shape of a hand). Those moments ignite something in me, and I invite listeners to notice what sparks that feeling for them too.

Humor also plays a big role — from childhood jokes to the time a funny story landed me a radio show. I reflect on the power of humor to heal and connect, even when the jokes don’t always land (like when I once bombed a stand-up set by going way over time). It’s all part of the creative ride.

Ultimately, this episode is a nudge: if listening turns you on, maybe it's time to start or guest on a podcast. Step into what excites you, and don't be afraid to be seen, heard, or even make a few people laugh along the way.

🎙️ Key Takeaways from the Minisode

1. Follow What Lights You Up
   – Ask: “Does this turn me on?” What excites you is worth pursuing — even when it’s messy.
2. Embrace the Flops
   – Missed cues, tech issues, awkward sets — they’re part of the process. Keep going.
3. Connection Over Perfection
   – Whether through humor or storytelling, it’s all about reaching people.
4. Humor Heals
   – Even childhood jokes and failed punchlines can lead to surprising growth.
5. Stay Curious
   – Let what inspires you fuel your voice and creative path.
6. Own Your Spotlight
   – If it lights you up, don’t dim it. You’re allowed to be seen.

What Podcasts are you listening to lately? Here are a couple I recommend:

How to Trust Your Intuition + The Timing of Your Life - with Lee Harris

Eliminate Anxiety Fast: The Awesome Hidden Emotion Technique

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catcaldwellmyers@gmail.com

Welcome to our April Fool's Series leading up to our podcasting summit... no kidding! These will be short minisodes with a few surprise interviews in there (or is that a joke? We'll see;) Our theme this month is to take podcasting seriously while simultaneously having a really good time doing it.

If you are interested in learning to podcast, please check out our masterclass on my website:

https://www.theadventureparadox.com/masterclass

Already have a podcast and interested in being part of our summit? Email us to see if there is still space:

theadventureparadox@gmail.com

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catcaldwellmyers@gmail.com

In this episode, I reflect on the power of listening to yourself and the importance of both what you say and what you don’t say. I share how replaying our own words—whether through podcasting or voice notes—can offer new insights into our thoughts, emotions, and intentions. Sometimes, what we don’t say holds the key to deeper self-awareness and clarity about our true desires.

I also talk about dealing with scarcity and reframing our mindset. Using examples like weight loss or dissatisfaction at work, I explain how focusing on the negative perpetuates lack, while shifting to a mindset of abundance and possibility opens doors to growth. Additionally, I share my experiences of loss and how sudden tragedies can shift our perspective, encouraging us to say the things we’ve been holding back.

Lastly, I explore the paradox of where life’s challenges exist whether we choose to pursue an adventure or stay in our comfort zone. For me, choosing the adventure—whether it’s raising kids in the mountains or navigating logistical hurdles for family ski trips—aligns with my values and the life I want to create.

Key Takeaways:

1. Listen to Yourself: Playing back your words can reveal insights about your true emotions and intentions, helping you understand what you really want to say.
2. Ask What You’re Not Saying: Sometimes, the unsaid holds the key to addressing underlying fears or desires.
3. Reframe Your Mindset: Shifting from a perspective of scarcity to one of abundance can change how you approach challenges and goals.
4. Life is Short: Losses and tragedies remind us to express ourselves fully and live authentically, even if it feels uncomfortable.
5. Choose Your "Hard": Every path has challenges. Choosing the one aligned with your values leads to a more fulfilling life.
6. Celebrate Joy Without Guilt: Sharing moments of joy, like a tropical vacation, can inspire others rather than provoke negativity.
7. Adventure is Worth It: Even when it’s logistically difficult, choosing adventure can create meaningful family memories and shared values.

"When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change."

-Wayne Dyer

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catcaldwellmyers@gmail.com

This episode is an oldie but a goodie from 1 year ago!

This episode is a deeply personal and transformative call to action centered around one simple but powerful question: "What did you just say?" I believe this question can act as a mirror to reflect whether our words truly align with our actions and values. By examining the disconnect between what we say we want and how we behave, we can identify and break free from the paradoxes that hold us back—like wanting change but resisting the effort it requires.

Drawing from my own experiences as a fitness coach, a horse trainer, and personal stories (including a language-barrier mishap in France), I encourage you to confront the gap between your intentions and your actions. Whether it’s striving for better health, pursuing your dreams, or setting firm boundaries, I emphasize the importance of honest self-reflection, deliberate action, and fully embracing the adventure of your life.

The takeaway is simple yet profound: our words carry power, and choosing them with awareness and intention can help us live our best, most aligned lives. So this week, I challenge you to pause, reflect, and ask yourself: "What did I just say?"

https://www.theadventureparadox.com/Work-With-Me

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Connect with me in the following ways:
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catcaldwellmyers@gmail.com

Support the show

Connect with me in the following ways:
www.theadventureparadox.com
Facebook
Instagram
catcaldwellmyers@gmail.com

In this minisode, I reflect on my recent ski trip to Italy and my practice of identifying a “story of the day” throughout the journey. I share five key stories from the trip:

Day 1 – The Injury & Perseverance: Our group, led by Crystal Wright, set out with enthusiasm, but early on, a skilled skier injured her knee. Despite the pain, she pushed through and skied a treacherous Russian road with limited snow.

Day 2 – Birthday Couloir in Sparkles: While the injured skier took a rest day, three of us celebrated a friend’s birthday by skiing a couloir—a narrow mountain pass—while wearing sparkles, embracing the joy of the moment.

Day 3 – The Blister & Grit: One skier discovered a massive blister but continued skiing for two more days without complaints, showing incredible resilience.

Day 4 – Facing Fear & Returning to Skiing: A friend of the injured skier debated leaving but ultimately overcame her hesitation and joined us on the journey to Lagazuoi, a stunning mountaintop hut.

Day 5 – Reflection & Invitation: I encourage listeners to find their own “story of the day,” whether in travel, work, or personal life, and to reflect on the narratives they create for themselves.

Reviews are vital to the success of this podcast! They help more adventurers and storytellers discover these episodes while supporting the work that goes into creating them. If you’ve enjoyed listening, take a moment to leave a review—it truly makes a difference! As a thank you, screenshot your review and email it to theadventureparadox@gmail.com, and we’ll send a special gift your way. 🎁✨

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catcaldwellmyers@gmail.com

Have you ever felt weighed down—literally and figuratively—by all the “stuff” we carry? Whether it’s an overpacked suitcase, emotional baggage, or the simple overwhelm of daily life, sometimes less really is more. That’s why I couldn’t wait to sit down with today’s guest, Natalie E. Tackett, and talk about how simplifying our travel wardrobes can lead to a more freeing and joyful experience.

Natalie is a powerhouse. She’s an artist, a restoration expert, and a viral YouTuber who is redefining what it means to pack light and travel smart. Her journey started with a trip to Turkey, where she was challenged to pack everything she needed into an 18-pound bag. (Yes, you read that right!) That experience transformed the way she travels, and now she’s sharing her wisdom with the world.

What You’ll Love in This Episode:

• Capsule Packing Made Easy – Build a stylish, functional, and ultra-light wardrobe.
• Less Baggage, More Freedom – How packing light can lighten your mindset, too.
• Smart Travel Hacks – Essentials to stay prepared without overpacking.
• Laundry Anywhere – Natalie’s top tips for easy sink washing.
• Packing Bulky Items – Clever ways to carry hats and big gear.
• A Heartwarming Story – How rescuing kittens became an unexpected adventure.

Stuff We Talked About:

• Scrubba Wash Bag – A game-changer for keeping your clothes fresh while traveling.
• Merino Wool for the Win – Why natural fabrics can stretch your wardrobe further.
• Pacifier Clips for Hats – The mom-hack you didn’t know you needed.

Capsule Dressing resources:

• https://www.whowhatwear.com/how-to-capsule-wardrobe
• https://www.cabionline.com

Where to Find Natalie:

• YouTube: BrushedArtist and the Art of Travel
• Instagram: @brushedartist
• Stan Store: https://stan.store/BrushedArtist

If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and let’s keep chasing adventure—without the extra baggage.

Support the show

Connect with me in the following ways:
www.theadventureparadox.com
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catcaldwellmyers@gmail.com