Project Connection
Welcome to Project Connection, hosted by Courtney Plank, LCSW—relationship expert, connecting addict, and deep explorer of what makes human connection the foundation of everything. More than just a skill, connection is the meaning of life itself—an essential element for emotional well-being, physical health, and even human survival and thrival. In each episode, Courtney dives into the art of connection—not just in relationships, but in every facet of life and work. She sits down with industry leaders, creatives, and visionaries to uncover how deep connection shapes their field, fuels success, and brings unexpected magical meaning into their lives. From the idiosyncratic rituals of different industries to the serendipitous encounters that change everything, this podcast reveals the unseen forces that bring people together. Courtney explores synchronicities, intuition, and the mysterious ways the universe weaves our paths together—reminding us that the right people, ideas, and opportunities always arrive at just the right moment. Because in the end, it’s not just about what you do—it’s about who you meet, how you connect, and those lasting relationships that define our lives.
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Laugh Until You Cry: Comedy, Vulnerability, and Being Human - Julia Kelly (Actress)
07/15/2025
Laugh Until You Cry: Comedy, Vulnerability, and Being Human - Julia Kelly (Actress)
In this deeply human and refreshingly honest episode, Coco sits down with actress and voice talent Julia Kelly to explore the emotional edges of performance—where laughter and tears often live side by side. Together, they unpack the intricacies of voice acting, the challenges of remote auditions, and the way connection shows up both on and off the stage. Julia shares her insights on the vulnerability required in comedy, the emotional intelligence behind timing and tone, and how even children are constantly navigating identity through expression. With warmth and humor, Courtney and Julia delve into: 🎭 The blurred line between comedy and catharsis 👂 The dance of listening and interjecting in conversation 👶 How children perceive identity and emotion 😂 The healing power of laughter when words fall short This conversation is a moving reminder that our deepest connections are often forged in the moments we let ourselves be seen—whether we’re laughing, crying, or somewhere in between. Takeaways Voice acting requires a deep connection to oneself and the character. Remote auditions can be stressful and require extra focus. Staying present in improv is crucial for success. Children have a unique and simple understanding of identity. Vulnerability in comedy fosters connection with the audience. Laughter serves as a powerful tool for healing and connection. Comedians often face mental health challenges despite their humor. Finding humor in life's challenges can aid in processing emotions. Active listening enhances communication and connection. Shared experiences in comedy create a sense of belonging. Sound Bites "How do you stay connected to yourself?" "People can tell when you're not present." "It's about true human connection." Keywords voice acting, improv, comedy, connection, vulnerability, laughter, mental health, parenting, identity, performance Summary In this conversation, Courtney Rault and Julia explore the intricacies of voice acting, the challenges of remote auditions, and the importance of connection in performance. They discuss the vulnerability required in comedy and acting, the perceptions of children regarding identity, and the healing power of laughter. The dialogue delves into the complexities of comedians' lives, the balance of listening and interjecting in conversations, and how humor can help process emotions. Ultimately, they highlight the shared experiences that connect us all. Takeaways Voice acting requires a deep connection to oneself and the character. Remote auditions can be stressful and require extra focus. Staying present in improv is crucial for success. Children have a unique and simple understanding of identity. Vulnerability in comedy fosters connection with the audience. Laughter serves as a powerful tool for healing and connection. Comedians often face mental health challenges despite their humor. Finding humor in life's challenges can aid in processing emotions. Active listening enhances communication and connection. Shared experiences in comedy create a sense of belonging. Titles The Connection Between Voice Acting and Authenticity Navigating the Challenges of Remote Auditions Sound bites "How do you stay connected to yourself?" "People can tell when you're not present." "It's about true human connection." Chapters 00:00 Navigating Remote Voiceover Work 01:11 The Art of Connection in Voice Acting 03:28 Navigating Improv and Authenticity 05:52 Embracing Vulnerability in Comedy 07:20 Understanding Gender Identity Through Children's Eyes 09:38 The Power of Laughter and Shared Experiences 12:19 The Flow State in Performance 14:29 The Dynamics of Improv and Trust 17:04 Active Listening and Connection 18:43 The Role of Spontaneity in Comedy 21:03 The Importance of Being Present 24:09 Compassion in Communication 25:36 The Art of Listening and Interjecting 27:10 Balancing Presence in Conversations 29:00 The Power of Shared Experiences 31:35 Finding Humor in Life's Challenges 36:19 Misconceptions About Comedians 40:10 Laughter as Healing 40:55 Connection Through Comedy 40:56 artsEntertainment-outro-low-long.wav
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Trusting Your Spark with Tami McCarthy ✨
07/08/2025
Trusting Your Spark with Tami McCarthy ✨
Trusting Your Spark with Tami McCarthy ✨ In this soul-stirring conversation, Coco sits down with creative visionary and community builder Tami McCarthy to explore the power of intuition, storytelling, and safe spaces for healing. Together, they dive into the importance of transforming pain into purpose, the courage it takes to share your truth, and how connection fuels collective healing. Tami opens up about the Spark Experience, her heartfelt platform that invites women to connect, reflect, and ignite their inner light through story. She shares how setting intentions, cultivating joy, and leaning into everyday magic can shift the way we live and love. From navigating creative blocks to finding clarity through self-discovery, this episode is a reminder that your voice matters—and your dreams are waiting. 💫 ✨ Themes: The healing power of community Creative expression as a tool for transformation Tuning into intuition as a guide Manifesting with intention 🌙 🧡 This episode invites you to trust your spark, show up as your whole self, and take the next brave step toward your purpose. Takeaways Sometimes amazing insights come from casual conversations. Creating safe spaces allows for authentic storytelling. Letting go can lead to new opportunities and growth. The Spark Experience connects women through shared stories. Transformative moments can change the trajectory of our lives. Spiritual retreats can be healing but may also bring unexpected challenges. Setting intentions is crucial for manifesting desires. Everyday alchemy involves cultivating joy in daily life. Community support is vital for personal healing journeys. Reclaiming one's voice is essential for empowerment.
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Leading with Purpose: Humanizing Leadership - Lin Coughlin (Executive Coach)
07/01/2025
Leading with Purpose: Humanizing Leadership - Lin Coughlin (Executive Coach)
Leading with Purpose: Humanizing Leadership with Lin Coughlin Guest: Lin C. Coughlin, Founder of Great Circle Associates Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Coco talks with leadership expert Lin Coughlin about what it truly means to lead with purpose, heart 💖, and integrity. Linda shares her journey from the corporate world to coaching, reflecting on how trust 🤝, self-awareness 🪞, and empowerment 💪 shape powerful leadership. Together, they explore the impact of imposter syndrome 😟, the challenge of balancing career and self-care 💆♀️, and the importance of creating safe, authentic spaces 🛑 where people can thrive. With warmth and wisdom, Lin reveals how life experiences 🌱 shape leadership styles—and how reconnecting with purpose 🎯 transforms the way we lead, work, and live. 🔑 Key Takeaways: 🤝 Trust is the foundation of great leadership 💪 Empowered teams create better outcomes 🌟 Knowing your strengths leads to real growth 😟 Imposter syndrome is common—but manageable 🪞 Self-awareness is your leadership superpower 🛑 Safe spaces unlock honest communication 🎯 Purpose drives true engagement and clarity 💆♀️ Women must prioritize self-care to lead well 🔥 Great leaders lead with passion and presence 🌱 Life experiences deeply shape how we show up Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 02:35 Humanizing Leadership in Corporate America 05:09 Building Trust and Relationships 07:36 Tools for Leadership Development 09:59 Empowerment and Coaching Strategies 12:50 Addressing Imposter Syndrome 17:34 Transformational Change in Organizations 22:32 Personal Background and Influences 24:57 Balancing Personal Outlets and Family Dynamics 26:31 Career Transitions and Life Changes 28:01 Navigating Motherhood and Career Guilt 29:48 The Importance of Self-Care for Women 32:24 Transformative Coaching and Purpose Discovery 35:48 Finding Purpose in Life Transitions 38:40 Legacy and Making a Difference
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Tapping into Kindness&Intuition - Meghan Guffey (Entrepreneur & Founder of Bea Colette)
06/24/2025
Tapping into Kindness&Intuition - Meghan Guffey (Entrepreneur & Founder of Bea Colette)
✨ Episode Summary: In this episode of Project Connection, Coco Plank sits down with entrepreneur, brand builder, and visionary Meghan Guffey, the founder of Bea Colette—a lifestyle brand born from a desire to live and create with intention. Meghan opens up about her evolution from powerhouse executive at companies like Amazon and Condé Nast to launching her own business rooted in authenticity, beauty, and connection. Together, Coco and Meghan explore: 💫 How entrepreneurship can be a soul-led journey toward deeper alignment 👗 The origin story of Bea Colette and how personal style can be a mirror of identity and intention 💼 Lessons from corporate life—and the courage it takes to pivot into your own purpose 🌱 Why kindness and connection aren’t soft skills, but essential business values 🌙 The power of intuition in decision-making and how to listen to your inner yes 👩👧 Balancing motherhood and ambition, and redefining success on your own terms 🌸 Creating a legacy of empowerment for future generations of women and girls Meghan reminds us that business can be both bold and gentle, structured and spiritual—and that surrounding yourself with good people is one of the most powerful business decisions you can make. This conversation is a love letter to intentional living, meaningful work, and the beauty that emerges when you lead from the inside out. Takeaways Authenticity is key in personal branding. Surrounding yourself with good people is crucial for success. Work-life balance is essential for personal fulfillment. Intuition often guides better business decisions than data alone. Kindness in business fosters a positive culture. Empowering future generations is a priority for entrepreneurs. Building a brand requires passion and dedication. Navigating challenges is part of the entrepreneurial journey. Creating a supportive team enhances productivity. Success is defined by personal values and goals. Chapters 00:00 Authenticity in Representation 51:17 The Journey to Entrepreneurship 55:15 Building Bea Colette: The Genesis 57:28 Navigating the Fashion Industry 01:00:16 The Importance of Team Dynamics 01:03:22 Creating a Positive Company Culture 01:10:30 The Importance of Kindness in Business 01:13:35 Balancing Intuition and Strategy 01:18:29 Navigating Challenges as a Woman Entrepreneur 01:20:26 Finding Balance Between Work and Family 01:32:30 Defining Success and Legacy
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Gemstones & Generations: The Stories We Wear - Ali Galgano (Serpentine Jewels)
06/17/2025
Gemstones & Generations: The Stories We Wear - Ali Galgano (Serpentine Jewels)
In this glittery conversation, Coco sits down with Ali Galgano, founder of Serpentine Jewels, to explore the intimate world where jewelry, identity, and connection converge. 💍💖 Ali shares her inspiring journey from 💼 banking to gemology, revealing how gemstones become ✨ vessels of memory, legacy, and transformation. Together, they dive into: 🔮 The spiritual qualities of stones and how they hold energy 💑 The ritual of engagement and the deep honor of guiding men through this sacred process 🔁 The emotional resonance of heirloom redesigns and sustainable jewelry practices 🛋️ The therapeutic magic of storytelling through custom design 👨👩👧 The beauty of family traditions woven into each bespoke piece This episode is a celebration of intention, beauty, and emotional legacy—a reminder that what we wear can carry who we are. 🌙✨ 🎧 A must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of story, soul, and sparkle. 💫💍💕 Sound Bites "Jewelry helps connect people to themselves." "Jewelry can represent a memory or a person." "People started to think more about their legacy." "I wear my grandma's bangles every single day." "Jewelry should not sit in your drawer." "Jewelry is an investment in love." "I take great notes on people's preferences." "I hope my pieces bring happiness for generations." Chapters 00:00 The Connection Between Jewelry and Identity 03:06 Jewelry as Legacy and Memory 06:01 The Spiritual and Energetic Aspects of Gemstones 08:48 The Art and Science of Custom Jewelry 12:06 The Emotional Journey of Jewelry Design 14:58 Personal Stories and Sentimental Value 17:47 The Role of Family and Tradition in Jewelry 20:57 Repurposing Jewelry: A Sustainable Approach 23:58 The Therapeutic Aspect of Jewelry Consultation 26:48 Navigating Engagement and Relationship Dynamics 30:11 Creating Unique Pieces for Unique Stories
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Teaching with Heart: Building Connection in Early Childhood - Lily Kast (Teacher, Ms. Ed)
06/10/2025
Teaching with Heart: Building Connection in Early Childhood - Lily Kast (Teacher, Ms. Ed)
In this inspiring conversation, early childhood educator Lily Kast shares her journey into the world of teaching and what it truly means to connect with young children. With a Master’s in Teaching and a deep passion for nurturing emotional intelligence, Lily opens up about her classroom philosophy—one rooted in warmth, responsiveness, and the power of play 🎨💛 We explore: 🌱 The principles of the Responsive Classroom approach 🧠 How to create a safe, connected learning environment 🔍 Why curiosity is at the heart of learning 💖 How to decode behavior with compassion, not control 🧘♀️ The emotional labor of teaching—and the importance of self-care Beyond the classroom, we dive into the profound connections we share with others, the spiritual dimensions of those bonds, and the journey of self-discovery that often unfolds in motherhood and caregiving. Lily reflects on the interconnectedness of our experiences—sometimes stretching across lifetimes—and how nurturing young minds also invites us to nurture our own spiritual growth ✨👶🔄🌌 Whether you’re a parent, educator, or soul on a journey of connection, this episode is a heart-expanding reminder that showing up with presence, curiosity, and compassion can transform how we raise—and relate to—the next generation. 00:00The Journey to Early Childhood Education 01:30 Lily as a kid and connections 02:48Building a Classroom Community 06:07Creating Connections with Students 08:59Understanding Behavior and Communication 11:53The Importance of Play in Learning 15:03Nurturing Curiosity and Connection 17:59Reflections on Teaching and Learning 20:46Balancing Personal and Professional Life 24:14Lessons for Parents and Educators
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The Wisdom Within – Awakening Intuition Through Nature – Swan Huntley (Author & Artist)
06/03/2025
The Wisdom Within – Awakening Intuition Through Nature – Swan Huntley (Author & Artist)
In this deeply nourishing and soul-stirring episode, Coco welcomes the luminous Swan Huntley—published author, adult illustrator, nature whisperer, and spiritual seeker—for a conversation that feels like a breath of fresh mountain air. 🌬️✨ Together, they unravel the myths of modern self-help, explore the quiet magic of sobriety, and dive into the sacred relationship between creativity and nature. Swan opens up about her personal evolution—from adolescent angst to meditative stillness, from societal expectations to the wild, intuitive path of inner knowing. 🌲🖋️ The two explore how true healing is non-linear, deeply personal, and often found in the messiness of life—not in the pages of a perfect self-help plan. From her spiritual pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago to the mystical unfolding of everyday meditation, Swan reminds us that slowing down is not failure—it’s grace. 🌄🧘♀️ She also shares sneak peeks of her new creative work that centers on self-trust, inner guidance, and embracing the quiet hum of intuition. 💫 🌟 Soul Takeaways: 🕰️ We remember the past through the lens of who we are now. 🧘♀️ Meditation doesn’t have to be lofty—it can be a simple daily anchor. 🌿 Nature holds the medicine for reconnection and clarity. 📚 Self-help isn’t one-size-fits-all—your soul has its own rhythm. 🍃 Sobriety is a path to self-trust, intuition, and radical presence. 🎨 Art reflects the dance between humanity and the natural world. 🔥 Struggle can be the birthplace of profound transformation. 🫶 Community and connection are essential on the path to healing. ⏳ There are no shortcuts—growth is slow, sacred, and real. 💞 We’re not meant to do this alone—connection is the true elixir. If you're craving depth, beauty, and a reminder that your path is yours to trust—this episode is a must-listen. 🌌💗
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The Power of your Hormones - Dr. Alicia Robbins (OBGYN)
05/27/2025
The Power of your Hormones - Dr. Alicia Robbins (OBGYN)
Links from Episode: In this episode of Project Connection, Coco talks with Dr. Alicia Robbins—OBGYN, certified menopause practitioner, and mother—about the often-overlooked journey of perimenopause and menopause. 🌙🔥 They explore why it’s crucial to understand hormonal changes as early as your 30s, how to navigate shifts in libido, and the connection between sexual health, sleep, nutrition, and stress. Dr. Robbins also shares how she balances her roles as a doctor and mom, and how societal pressures uniquely impact women today. 💡 Plus, they dive into new models of care—from bioidentical hormones to concierge medicine and even AI—as ways to improve access, quality, and connection in women’s healthcare. ✨ Chapters: 🔹 Navigating the Transition: Perimenopause and Menopause Explained 🔹 Empowering Women: The Importance of Hormonal Awareness 🔹 Building Trust: The Key to Effective Patient Care 🔹 Concierge Care: A New Approach to Women's Health This conversation is full of truth-telling, myth-busting, and practical wisdom for women in every season. ❤️🔥 Books Referenced: Sound Bites "Perimenopause can last up to a decade." "Trust is built through genuine care." "Couples who do yoga together have better sex." "Sleep is huge, if you're not sleeping." "Diet can really go further than people think." "I love being alone, I'm kind of a lone wolf." "It's more about quality over quantity." "Trust your gut and your body."
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From Tech to Table - Maxine Sharf (Food Blogger of Maxi's Kitchen)
05/20/2025
From Tech to Table - Maxine Sharf (Food Blogger of Maxi's Kitchen)
In this deeply nourishing episode, Coco sits down with food blogger and culinarty creator Maxine Sharf, the creater of Maxi's Kitchen, to explore her journey of transformation—from a career in tech 💻 to finding purpose in the kitchen 🍽️. After an unexpected moment, Maxine followed the quiet whispers of intuition 🌬️ and embraced an opportunity to turn cooking into a form of healing, meditation 🧘♀️, and joy for so many others. Maxine unravels the beautiful, complex threads of connection that led her home—to herself, her purpose, and her kitchen. She opens up about: 💫 Divine timing and trusting the unknown 👩👧👦 The unshakeable bonds with her mother and her supportive husband 🕯️ The grounding rituals that carry her through the tough world of social media 📖 The creative process behind recipes that comfort and connect 🧡 The importance of vulnerability, community, and everyday moments Now a beloved recipe developer and content creator, Maxine shares how every sweet, sour, and sacred experience infused her life—and her dishes—with deep meaning. This episode is a celebration of nourishment—for the body, soul, and calling. 🌿🍋 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Maxine Scharf 03:01 Maxine's Journey into Food Blogging 05:54 The Impact of Layoff on Career Choices 08:59 Cooking as a Meditative Experience 11:48 The Creative Process in Recipe Development 15:04 Finding Balance in a Creative Career 17:59 Childhood Memories and Cooking 21:00 The Importance of Connection and Community 24:05 Staying Grounded in a Busy Life 27:03 Navigating Loneliness in a Creative Career 29:56 Collaborations and Community in Cooking 32:29 The Power of Collaboration 34:26 Lessons from Relationships 35:14 Creating a Space of Comfort and Joy 36:27 Embracing Vulnerability 39:21 The Journey of Self-Discovery 44:06 Impacting Lives Through Passion 49:22 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments 52:13 Navigating Uncertainty and Control Sound Bites "I always wanted her to take a picture." "Maybe this is my chance to chase my dream." "I feel like I was meant to do this." "Cooking is a meditative experience for me." "Cooking has always been a safe space for me." "I try not to be online a lot." "I need to remind myself to branch out." "I find joy in collaborations." "I told Doug that I loved him first." "The universe shows up through people."
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Writing from the Heart - Carola Lovering (Novelist & Author of Tell me Lies)
05/13/2025
Writing from the Heart - Carola Lovering (Novelist & Author of Tell me Lies)
In this insightful episode of Project Connection, Coco sits down with bestselling author Carola Lovering (Author of Tell Me Lies, Bye Baby, Can't Look Away and Too Good to Be True) for a heartfelt discussion about the power of storytelling, personal growth, and the connections that shape our lives. ✨ Carola opens up about how a pivotal personal experience sparked her writing journey, leading her from rejection to literary success. 📚 She reflects on the deep bonds she’s formed with readers through her authentic, emotionally resonant novels and shares how childhood creativity 🎨 and her own lived experiences 💫 have influenced her work. From navigating the highs and lows of the publishing industry 📈 to balancing the demands of a growing family 👶, Carola offers a candid glimpse into the realities of life as a writer. ✍️ She shares the critical role of networking 🤝, the importance of perseverance 💪, and the often overlooked but essential partnership with literary agents. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring writers, creative spirits, and anyone looking to turn their personal struggles into powerful art. 🎧🗣️ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Carola Lovering 02:55 The Journey of Writing 'Tell Me Lies' 05:49 Personal Connections and Authenticity in Writing 09:11 Childhood Influences and Early Creativity 12:04 Navigating Family Dynamics and Relationships 14:59 The Publishing Journey and Networking 19:49 The Role of Agents in Publishing 27:04 Balancing Writing and Family Life 30:05 Reflections on Creativity and Inspiration Sound Bites "Writing this piece of fiction made me feel less alone." "I stumbled upon writing in some sense." "I think most people have a book in them." "Everyone's just winging it." "It was a long shot, but I reached out." "The squeaky wheel gets the grease." "It has to be so intentional and planned."
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Betting on Life with Hard work - Andy Lorig (Entrepreneur)
05/06/2025
Betting on Life with Hard work - Andy Lorig (Entrepreneur)
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Coco sits down with entrepreneur and poker player Andy Lorig to talk about life’s biggest stakes—grief, growth, and the gamble of starting over. Andy shares his journey of building and letting go of Honey Drop, a venture he poured everything into. Andy opens up about losing his father to suicide and the journey of navigating that deep loss with the help of family, friendship, and unwavering support 💔❤️. He shares how poker became more than a game—it became a mirror for life, teaching lessons in resilience, intuition, and the power of staying present ♠️🎲. Together, they explore how grief can spark unexpected new beginnings 🌅, how taking emotional risks leads to real connection, and why the bravest move is often just showing up. Coco and Andy discuss the quiet power of having someone in your corner. This episode is a moving reflection on what it means to grow, grieve, and keep showing up—because connection is what carries us, and there’s always another train coming 🤝💫. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Andy: The Master Connector 01:19The Journey of Honey Drop and Personal Commitment 03:40Poker: A Metaphor for Life 05:35Friendship and Support Through Tragedy 09:53Lessons from Family: Resilience and Opportunity 12:29Navigating Grief and Mental Health 16:22The Closure of Honey Drop and New Beginnings 20:06Embracing New Opportunities 22:15The Power of Connection and Personal Growth
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Emotional Intelligence & Ego Resilience - Margaret Smith (Head of People at Compass)
05/01/2025
Emotional Intelligence & Ego Resilience - Margaret Smith (Head of People at Compass)
In this episode of Project Connection, host Coco Plank, sits down with Margaret Smith, Head of People at Compass, to explore the deep relationship between leadership and connection 🔗💡. From navigating the complexities of public companies to fostering trust and emotional intelligence in the workplace, Margaret shares the key ingredients to leading with heart ❤️ and resilience 💪. They dive into: ✨ The power of direct communication and how it builds stronger teams 🗣️🤝 ✨ Ego resilience & workplace vulnerability—why embracing both makes you a better leader 🎭🚀 ✨ The shift from competition to collaboration and why connection is the ultimate leadership skill 🔄💼 ✨ Self-awareness, therapy, and self-work as tools for professional growth 🧠🛠️ ✨ The importance of in-person connection post-COVID and how it transforms company culture 🏢💬 Margaret brings wisdom, authenticity, and a deep understanding of people to this inspiring conversation. Tune in to discover how true leadership isn’t about power—it’s about connection, trust, and the courage to show up as your whole self 🌟💙.
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The Intimacy of Home Design with Kate Ives (Interiors Expert)
04/29/2025
The Intimacy of Home Design with Kate Ives (Interiors Expert)
In this episode of Project Connection, Courtney Plank, LCSW sits down with acclaimed interior designer Kate Ives Marshall, founder of Kate Ives Design and one of Frederic Magazine’s 2024 “It List” honorees. With a background in Architectural Digest and top design firms across the country, Kate has mastered the art of creating spaces that are both warm and sophisticated, deeply personal yet timeless. But Kate’s work goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about connection. She shares how her ability to read individuals on an intimate level allows her to craft homes that reflect their deepest values, memories, and dreams. From generational relationships with clients to the subtle art of evoking emotion through design, Kate reveals how our environments shape our well-being, identity, and the way we connect with others. Tune in as Courtney and Kate explore: 🏡 The power of space to tell a story and reflect the soul 🔑 How deep listening and intuition guide Kate’s design process 🌿 The balance between restraint, elegance, and warmth in creating timeless interiors 💫 The unseen yet transformative connection between people and their surroundings Because when a space truly resonates, it becomes more than a home—it becomes a reflection of who we are and what matters most. Listen now for an inspiring conversation on the intersection of design, intuition, and human connection! 🎧✨
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Mastering Motherhood - Andrea Tuckel (Parenting Enjoyment Expert)
04/26/2025
Mastering Motherhood - Andrea Tuckel (Parenting Enjoyment Expert)
In this warm and wise conversation, Coco is joined by Andrea Tuckel, a Master Mom and seasoned stay-at-home wife with a deep love for the messy, magical reality of parenting. Andrea shares the mindset shifts that have helped her not just survive motherhood—but truly cherish it. From finding joy in the ordinary to leaning into community, Andrea reflects on the power of perspective in transforming daily challenges into meaningful moments. Drawing from her own journey and the communal values of the kibbutz, she offers insights on parenting with presence, embracing imperfection, and staying connected to what matters most. Whether you're in the thick of tantrums or navigating the teenage years, this episode is a heartfelt reminder to slow down, create connection, and savor the fleeting beauty of family life. 🌟 Key Takeaways: “Many moms before me, and so many moms after me.” 🌍 Shift your mindset: pressure out, presence in 🧘♀️ Let go of the need to figure it all out 🙏 Selflessness can be a spiritual practice 💞 Community is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline 🫶 Joy is found in the little things ☀️ You are modeling kindness for your children 💗 Parenting is an invitation to grow, soften, and connect 🕊️
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The Magic of Conflict - Whitney Voute (Organizational Psychologist)
04/24/2025
The Magic of Conflict - Whitney Voute (Organizational Psychologist)
In this episode of Project Connection, Courtney Plank, LCSW sits down with Whitney Voute, an organizational psychologist specializing in connection and conflict—both in and out of the workplace. Whitney shares how embracing both harmony and tension leads to meaningful interactions, success in business and life, and a deeper understanding of oneself. Together, Courtney and Whitney explore: ✨ How connection fuels collaboration, innovation, and workplace culture 🔥 The surprising role of conflict as a catalyst for deeper relationships and growth 🔍 How understanding your own inner world leads to stronger external connections 🌎 The ripple effect of meaningful interactions in personal and professional life With insights grounded in psychology, experience, and a touch of synchronistic magic, this conversation uncovers why true connection isn’t just about agreement—but about authenticity, vulnerability, and navigating the messy moments with intention. Because whether in business, relationships, or self-discovery—connection is everything. Tune in now for a transformative conversation! 🎧✨
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Living in Synchronicities - Karah Preiss (Producer & Belletrist Co-Founder)
04/24/2025
Living in Synchronicities - Karah Preiss (Producer & Belletrist Co-Founder)
In this heartfelt and humorous conversation, producer and Belletrist founder Karah Preiss joins Coco Plank to unpack the layered, often surprising role of connection in personal growth, creativity, and community. Growing up in the vibrant landscape of New York City 🗽, Karah reflects on how her upbringing shaped her relationship with connection, humor, and storytelling — and how those threads continue to weave through her life as a cultural curator, advocate for women’s voices, and champion of literature 📚. From her unexpected journey from “hating reading” to co-founding Belltrist, a thriving book community for curious and connected minds, Karah shares how the loss of her father deepened her bond with stories and sparked a new way of understanding both grief and growth. Together, Coco and Karah explore the synchronicities ✨ that nudge us forward, the importance of defining connection for ourselves, and how humor 😂 acts as both a creative tool and a survival skill in an often disconnected world. This episode celebrates the magic that happens when curiosity meets vulnerability, the power of community in literature, and the quiet (but profound) work of being a mensch 💛 — someone who shows up with kindness and intention. Whether you're a book lover, a creator, or simply navigating the art of human connection, this conversation offers both wisdom and wit, reminding us: life is not about the results, but about the relationships we build along the way. Sound Bites "Only connect!" "I aspire to mensch-hood." "Comedy is connection." 💡 Takeaways: 🔹 Connection is essential for personal growth and meaningful relationships. 🔹 Humor isn’t just entertainment — it’s a bridge to real human connection. 🔹 Growing up in a communicative environment shapes how we connect with the world. 🔹 Synchronicity often guides us, even when we don’t notice it. 🔹 True connection requires effort, vulnerability, and self-definition. 🔹 Books and storytelling create lasting communities and cultural curation. 🔹 Grief and loss can deepen your connection to memory and meaning. 🔹 Being a great producer is about connecting people and ideas to bring stories to life. 🔹 Life’s greatest rewards often come from authentic connection, not results. 🔹 There’s always room for laughter, literature, and human kindness.
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Hello It's Coco!
04/07/2025
Hello It's Coco!
Summary In this introductory episode of Project Connection, therapist Courtney Rault shares her journey and the inspiration behind the podcast. She emphasizes the importance of connection in our lives, drawing from her personal experiences and professional background. The podcast aims to explore the art of connection through storytelling, psychology, and personal insights, encouraging listeners to deepen their relationships and understand the power of human connection. "Connection isn't just for extroverts." "Connection is a life force." "I want to be a master connector." Courtney Plank Rault, LCSW, is a relationship expert, therapist, and lifelong connector dedicated to helping people build deeper, more meaningful connections in every aspect of life. After earning a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work and Therapy from Columbia University and receiving clinical training at New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center, Courtney founded Coco Plank Therapy—a practice specializing in talk therapy for individuals and couples. With a background in finance and Spanish from UC Irvine and years working in finance in San Francisco and New York City, Courtney discovered her true calling in psychotherapy and human connection. As the clinical director of Coco Plank Therapy, Courtney and her team use Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Buddhist Psychology, and Strengths-Based Practices to empower clients to unearth unhelpful patterns and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships. With over a decade of experience in substance use recovery and mental wellness, Courtney has seen firsthand the profound impact of both connection and disconnection. She understands that when connection is missing—whether in relationships, communities, or within ourselves—the effects can be deeply painful, leading to loneliness, addiction, anxiety, and cycles of unhealthy behavior. But she also believes that with awareness, courage, and the right tools, healing and reconnection are always possible.
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Project Connection - Teaser 🌍
03/31/2025
Project Connection - Teaser 🌍
🎙️ Welcome to Project Connection – The Podcast That Redefines How We Relate to the World 🌍 What if connection isn’t just a skill—but the very essence of life itself? 💫 Join me, Courtney Plank, LCSW—relationship expert, connection addict, and deep explorer of what makes human connection the foundation of everything. In Project Connection, we go beyond small talk and surface-level interactions to uncover the magic of true connection—in relationships, in work, and in the moments that shape our lives. Each episode brings together industry leaders, creatives, and visionaries to explore how deep connection fuels success, sparks creativity, and transforms the way we live. From unexpected encounters that change everything to the unseen forces that pull people together, we dive into synchronicities, intuition, and the hidden threads that weave our world. ✨ Because in the end, it’s not just about what you do—it’s about who you meet, how you connect, and the relationships that define your life. 💙 Ready to connect? Let’s dive in. 🔗💡 First episode is set to release April 24th, 2025! GET READY TO CONNECT
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