Podcast
Project Connection
Hosted by Coco Plank · EN
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.
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Joy in Finding your Purpose ON Purpose with Mauren Falvey (Professional Coach)
Feb 400:38:51Tap to summarizeWork with Maureen here In this conversation, Courtney Rault and Maureen Falvey explore the transformative power of coaching as a pathway to greater self-awareness, empowerment, and joy in leadership. They reflect on what it means to feel "stuck" and how intentional reflection, curiosity, and support can help individuals move forward with clarity and confidence. Central to their discussion is the role of vulnerability in building trust—both with others and with oneself—and the importance of understanding and managing personal energy levels. The dialogue also highlights the necessity of setting healthy boundaries, recognizing one's inherent value, and embracing the concept of "mattering" as a foundation for sustainable leadership and personal growth. Courtney and Maureen examine the intersection of coaching and therapy, clarifying how each can support individuals in different but complementary ways. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the journey toward deeper self-connection, authentic leadership, and a more joyful, empowered way of living and working. akeaways Coaching is about unleashing potential and taking action. Joy is essential for creativity and leadership. Self-awareness is key to effective coaching and leadership. Vulnerability builds trust in relationships. Understanding energy levels can help navigate emotions. Fear and limiting beliefs are joy killers. Mattering to oneself is crucial for personal fulfillment. Setting boundaries is necessary for maintaining energy. The internal locus of control empowers individuals to change their circumstances. The DISC profile can enhance self-awareness and team dynamics. Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Coaching and Joy 02:16 Understanding Potential and Action 04:26 The Role of Openness in Coaching 06:32 The Importance of Self-Awareness 08:48 Navigating Stuckness and Energy Levels 11:31 The Power of Joy in Leadership 13:44 Identifying Joy Killers 15:55 The Concept of Mattering 18:25 The Role of Vulnerability in Trust 21:13 The Importance of Knowing Yourself 23:52 Setting Boundaries and Saying No 26:47 The Intersection of Coaching and Therapy 29:20 Empowerment Through Responsibility 32:05 The Role of Internal Locus of Control 34:57 Understanding DISC Profiles 37:24 Building Trust in Leadership
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The Integrated Artist In Flow: Art, Movement, and Meaning with Joan Chromei (Artist)
Jan 2800:29:41Tap to summarizeCheck Out Joanie's Art here In this intimate and inspiring conversation, Courtney Rault sits down with artist Joanie Choremi to explore her creative journey and the deeper meaning behind her work. Together, they unpack creativity as both a practice and a way of being—examining the role of intuition, presence, and personal growth in the artistic process. Joanie shares how wallpaper became an unexpected yet powerful medium for storytelling, and how skiing shows up in her life as a form of performative, embodied art. The conversation weaves through themes of accessibility in art communities, the importance of narrative in helping people connect to and understand art, and the meditative states that emerge through creation. Joanie also offers a glimpse into her current projects, including her Pucci-inspired series, and reflects on the necessity of a clean, intentional workspace to support inspiration and flow. At its heart, this episode is a reminder that art isn't separate from everyday life—it's a way of relating, expressing, and connecting more deeply to ourselves and the world around us. Takeaways Art is a unique form of self-expression that everyone can access. The creative process is often intuitive and personal. Art can serve as a meditative practice, allowing for flow states. Surrounding oneself with beauty can inspire creativity. Storytelling enhances the appreciation of art and its meaning. Skiing can be viewed as a form of performative art. Art communities provide support and accessibility for artists. Creating a clean workspace is essential for fostering creativity. The Pucci series reflects a blend of fashion and artistic expression. Everyone should prioritize their creative practice, regardless of its commercial value. Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Intersection of Art and Domestic Life 01:53 The Journey of Artistic Expression 04:06 Creative Projects and Personal Growth 06:37 The Role of Art in Community and Connection 08:53 Defining Art and Its Personal Significance 11:04 The Process of Creating and Intuition 13:30 Art as a Reflection of Self and Society 14:37 Curiosity and Interpretation in Art 17:30 The Meditative State of Creation 20:07 The Evolution of Artistic Projects 23:06 Rapid Fire Insights and Final Thoughts
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The Inner Dojo: Awakening the Power That's Always Been Within You - Jennifer Cassetta (Author and Motivational Speaker)
Jan 2100:32:54Tap to summarizeCheck out Jennifer here!! In this empowering episode, Coco Plank sits down with motivational speaker and self-defense expert Jennifer Cassetta for a conversation about personal growth, manifestation, and stepping fully into one's purpose. Jennifer shares her journey to becoming a motivational speaker and introduces her framework, The Art of Badassery—a philosophy rooted in resilience, self-trust, and embodied confidence. Together, they explore the concept of finding your inner dojo, embracing life's challenges as teachers, and using conscious communication and self-talk to reclaim personal power. Drawing from ancient wisdom and modern leadership principles, this conversation is a reminder that the strength, clarity, and courage we seek are already within us—and when we access them, we become leaders who help others rise too. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of connecting with a broader audience through relatable storytelling 📖🤝 The concept of the dojo represents the intersection of mind, body, and spirit in personal growth 🧠💪✨ Manifestation is a powerful tool for achieving goals and connecting with collective energy 🌟🔮 Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining personal well-being and focus 🚧🛡️ The journey to becoming a motivational speaker often starts small and evolves over time 🌱🎤 Communication and self-talk play a significant role in personal empowerment 🗣️💭⚡ Resilience is built through embracing challenges and learning from them 🔥💎 Leadership involves helping others rise and achieve their potential ⬆️👑 Ancient wisdom teaches that the answers we seek are already within us 🌀📜 Breath is a powerful tool for connecting with our inner strength 🌬️💛 Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Connections 02:40 Navigating Anger and Collective Emotions 05:20 The Role of the Dojo in Personal Growth 08:15 Manifesting and Taking Aligned Action 10:35 The Power of Connection and Community 13:26 Finding Your Inner Wisdom 16:12 The Importance of Different Perspectives 17:58 Finding Your Soul's Purpose 23:05 The Journey to Becoming a Motivational Speaker 27:00 The Art of Badassery Framework 36:00 Ancient Wisdom and Personal Power
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Rewriting Your Darkest Chapter Into Inspiration with Lara Love Hardin (NYT Bestselling Author)
Jan 1400:37:15Tap to summarizeLara's Website https://www.laralovehardin.com/ Buy her book here In this powerful conversation, Lara Love Hardin joins Courtney "Coco" Plank to explore how connection—through stories, relationships, and community—can become a lifeline. Lara shares her journey from incarceration to authorship, reflecting on health struggles, personal reckoning, and the profound transformation that comes from being truly seen. Together, they discuss the power of memoir to build empathy, the difference between punishment and healing, and how authentic connection can interrupt cycles of harm. Lara also introduces The Gemma Project, her nonprofit dedicated to keeping women connected to critical services during reentry—so jail isn't the default. This episode is a moving exploration of freedom, belonging, and becoming more than your past. Takeaways Reading can be a powerful escape and addiction. Health challenges can lead to profound personal insights. Authentic connections can transform lives. Incarceration can change one's perspective on humanity. Empathy is crucial in understanding community struggles. The Gemma Project aims to support women post-incarceration. Memoirs can foster empathy and understanding. Writing is a skill honed through practice and reading. Personal growth often requires overcoming fear and shame. Freedom comes with responsibility and self-acceptance. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Connection Through Literature 02:47 Navigating Health Challenges and Personal Struggles 05:39 The Impact of Connection in Interviews 08:23 Transforming from Cautionary Tale to Inspirational Figure 11:14 Understanding the Incarceration System 13:58 Creating Change: The Gemma Project 16:42 Empathy Through Storytelling and Memoir 23:36 The Power of Personal Stories 28:28 The Art of Evocative Writing 31:32 Lessons from Incarceration 37:16 Understanding Humanity and Compassion 37:54 Embracing Authenticity and Vulnerability 39:39 Defining Freedom and Responsibility
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How to Help your Tween Thrive in the Digital Age -Connected, Not Consumed with Juliette Blake (Founder of Moxies)
Jan 700:37:01Tap to summarizeCheck Out Moxies Here! In this Project Connection episode, Coco speaks with Juliette Blake, founder of Moxies, about how to help young girls build healthy, meaningful connection in a digital world. Juliette shares why ethical tech matters, how the attention economy impacts girls' development, and what it looks like to design online spaces that prioritize safety, autonomy, and well-being over engagement. Together, they explore digital literacy as a relational life skill, the role of parents and community in shaping girls' online experiences, and how open conversations about technology can foster trust, confidence, and authentic connection—both online and offline. Takeaways: Connection restores depleted caregivers and families. 💛 Moxies creates a safe, healthy digital space for girls. 🛡️ Well-being matters more than engagement metrics. ⚖️ Connection and autonomy support girls' development. 🌱 Digital literacy is an essential life skill. 📚 Parents and community shape kids' online experiences. 🤝 Open tech conversations build trust. 💬 Chapters 00:00 End of Year Reflections and Feelings 02:56 The Launch of Moxies: A New Digital Platform 05:33 Prioritizing Safety and Wellbeing in Digital Spaces 08:12 The Importance of Digital Literacy for Kids 11:16 Building Healthy Relationships with Technology 13:52 The Role of Parents in Navigating Digital Spaces 16:37 Creating a Safe Digital Environment for Children 19:47 Community and Collaboration Among Parents 21:36 Measuring Positive Outcomes in Digital Engagement 24:13 The Future of Ethical Tech for Kids 26:58 Resources for Parents: Navigating Digital Content 29:45 Fostering Open Communication with Children 32:54 Conclusion: Meaningful Connections in a Digital World
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Want Better Sex? Start Here - Connection and Intimacy Coach, Dan Purcell (Get Your Marriage On)
Nov 1900:34:51Tap to summarize*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:7622b1c9-78fa-4cac-bbfd-b7f5e1190f12-4" data-testid= "conversation-turn-10" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> Dan's Website In this episode, Courtney sits down with Dan, founder of Get Your Marriage On, for an honest, energizing conversation about intimacy, desire, and what it really takes to keep passion alive in long-term relationships. Together, they unpack the complexities of sexual connection—from the ways our cultural and family histories shape intimacy, to how couples can navigate the very normal experience of desire discrepancy without shame or blame. Dan shares the personal journey that led him to develop his intimacy app, offering practical and playful tools that help couples communicate better, understand their individual needs, and bring more intentionality into their sex lives. The conversation dives into the difference between "horizontal" novelty (new experiences, fun ideas, trying things) and "vertical" novelty (deepening emotional connection), highlighting why both matter for desire to thrive. Throughout the episode, Courtney and Dan emphasize that great sex is built on a foundation of emotional intimacy, personal growth, and daily micro-moments of connection. From scheduling intentional time together to embracing small, consistent acts of affection, they offer couples a roadmap for reigniting passion in a way that feels authentic, sustainable, and deeply satisfying. This episode is a reminder that sexual connection isn't something you luck into—it's something you build, nurture, and grow together. When couples invest in intimacy, they unlock not just better sex, but a deeper, more fulfilling partnership. Takeaways -Connection can be multifaceted, including cultural and familial ties. -Sexual connection can be both a source of disconnection and connection in relationships. -Desire discrepancies are common in marriages and can be managed through communication. -The presence of desire differences isn't the problem; how couples handle them is key. -Intimacy requires self-confrontation and understanding one's own needs and desires. -Novelty in intimacy can be categorized into horizontal and vertical experiences. -Personal growth is essential for maintaining passion in long-term relationships. -Scheduling connection activities can enhance intimacy and lead to better sexual experiences. -Small daily acts of intimacy can lead to significant progress in relationships. -Intimacy is a foundation for great sex, and investing in it can unlock deeper connections. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connection 03:31 Exploring Sexual Connection 09:00 The Journey to Intimacy 13:31 Desire Discrepancy in Relationships 18:04 Understanding Intimacy and Self-Confrontation 21:18 The Essence of Healthy Selfishness in Intimacy 24:38 Exploring Novelty in Long-Term Relationships 28:15 The Importance of Personal Growth in Relationships 30:44 Connection as the Foundation for Intimacy 42:03 Challenging the Norms of Passion in Relationships *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-(--header-height)" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "8824771c-d6e9-432a-8330-1f568f72016d" data-testid= "conversation-turn-11" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="user">
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How Friendships Make Us Better Parents (and Humans!) with Olivia Reighley (Master Mom)
Nov 1200:38:03Tap to summarizeIn this heart-expanding episode, Coco Plank and Olivia Reighley explore the many layers of parenting — from building structure and instilling values to cultivating creativity, connection, and joy. Together, they reflect on how to nurture children with clear principles while leaving space for freedom, fun, and self-expression. The conversation flows from family dinner rituals to ice cream moments, weaving in the role of creativity through clothing as a form of identity and play for kids. They discuss sharing, the importance of seeing the best in everyone, and the balance of energy within family relationships — how each person's rhythm affects the whole. Coco and Olivia also reflect on the parable of the porcupines, a timeless story about community and connection — how we sometimes prick each other in closeness, yet still need one another to stay warm. It's a reminder that relationships, though imperfect, are where growth and grace live. Ultimately, this episode is about finding the sweet balance — between discipline and delight, individuality and togetherness — and understanding that parenting, like connection itself, is an energy exchange grounded in love. ✨ Takeaways: Parenting thrives on both structure and spontaneity. Clear principles help children feel grounded and secure. Creativity in clothing and play allows self-expression. Sharing teaches empathy and community-mindedness. Believing in the best in others fosters connection. Energy balance within families shapes harmony. The porcupine parable reminds us that closeness can both comfort and challenge. Fun and flexibility are forms of nurturing. Relationships are the foundation for growth and joy. Parenting is an evolving dance of energy, love, and connection.
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How Healing Your Body Can Change Your Life — with Sally Plank, LCSW (Therapist)
Nov 500:32:14Tap to summarizeSally's Website In this heartfelt episode of Project Connection, we sit down with Sally Plank, LCSW, for a powerful conversation about healing from the inside out. Sally opens up about her personal experience with neurodivergence and how it has shaped her understanding of stress, regulation, and the nervous system. She shares what she calls "the stress edge" — that moment when overwhelm meets awareness — and how learning to ground herself transformed her relationship with her body and her life. Through her story, Sally reminds us that healing isn't about perfection — it's about presence. From simple grounding practices to deep self-attunement, she offers wisdom on how to reconnect with yourself and find stability in a world that often feels too fast and too loud. If you've ever felt stuck in stress or searching for balance, this episode will inspire you to slow down, tune in, and discover the power of coming home to your body.
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Love Isn't Enough: Building the Tools for Lasting Connection with Bryan Power
Oct 2900:32:49Tap to summarizewww.myrelationshipfail.com In this episode of Project Connection, host Coco Plank sits down with relationship expert Bryan Power to explore why love alone isn't always enough to sustain a healthy partnership. Power shares insights on the essential tools and skills couples need to navigate conflict, communicate effectively, and grow together over time. He also discusses how reflecting on past relationships can help individuals break unhealthy cycles and build stronger connections in the future. Whether you're single, dating, or deep into a long-term relationship, this conversation offers practical wisdom for keeping love resilient and real. 💡 Love isn't enough: Lasting relationships require tools and skills, not just strong feelings. 🧰 Build your toolkit: Communication, empathy, and conflict navigation are essential relationship skills. 🔄 Learn from the past: Reflecting on old patterns helps prevent repeating the same mistakes. ❤️ Intentional connection: Healthy relationships take awareness, effort, and growth from both partners. 🌱 Keep evolving: Personal development strengthens not only you, but every connection you build.
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The Cost of Not Creating with Isabel Cowles Murphy (Writer)
Oct 2200:43:02Tap to summarizeCheck out Isabel's amazing work here! In this episode of Project Connection, Coco Plank sits down with writer and former lawyer Isabel Cowles Murphy to explore the rich, often messy intersection of creativity, motherhood, and self-expression. Together, they unpack what it means to hold space for personal ambition while raising a family, and how the act of creating itself becomes a vital measure of well-being. Isabel shares candid reflections on redefining success, letting go of societal expectations, and the courage it takes to nurture one's creative voice amidst the noise of responsibility and comparison. From the challenges of marketing creative work to the deeper call for authenticity, this conversation invites listeners to reconnect with their own creative pulse and find meaning in the process—not just the outcome. ✨ Takeaways Creativity reflects our overall well-being. Balancing motherhood and ambition is a shared struggle. Making art matters more than talking about it. Unlived parental dreams can weigh on the next generation. Self-worth often gets tangled with external validation. Creativity flourishes with time, space, and community. Marketing and authenticity can feel at odds. Joy and fulfillment come from redefining success on your own terms. Chapters 00:00 Awakening Creativity After Motherhood 02:37 The Struggle of Self-Expression 05:51 Navigating Ambition and Motherhood 08:33 The Importance of Creative Practice 11:42 Balancing Personal and Creative Life 14:26 The Role of Caregivers in Family Dynamics 17:18 Finding Value in Creative Work 20:25 The Complexity of Identity and Self-Worth 23:05 The Game of Life and Creativity 25:56 Navigating External Expectations 29:06 The Challenge of Marketing and Authenticity 31:52 The Impact of Upbringing on Self-Perception 34:24 Writing About Family and Personal Experiences 37:12 The Balance of Personal and Professional Life 39:53 Transcending Pain Through Art 43:04 Reimagining Success and Community 45:44 The Illusion of External Validation 48:45 Finding Joy in the Journey 51:33 Embracing the Complexity of Life
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