The Unplanned Joyful Life - Gain Confidence, Navigate Adversity, Live Purposefully, Engage your Christian Faith, Catholic Church
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Are you a successful and well-rounded individual, but are lacking spiritual fulfillment in your life? Do you consider yourself to be Christian, and grew up Catholic, but your family never really practiced? And, maybe they did. But, as an adult, you have become totally withdrawn from the Church? Have you experienced trials and tribulations and have sought out answers except for the Faith? But, you would like to learn more to see if the Catholic faith is a path you'd like to consider?
If this is you? You are in the right place. I want to encourage you to take time to explore your Catholic Christian Faith. I want to remind you that you are a loved, valued and an integral part of the Catholic Church Family founded by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. And, there is nothing he wants more than to welcome you home.
Hi, I am Cathy Jo Lang, daughter of The One True King. And, I am excited to welcome you to “The Unplanned Joyful Life” podcast. I am a practicing Catholic who recommitted to my Catholic Christian faith after experiencing a mental health crisis over 30 years ago. I suffered a severe postpartum depression that required a 3 week hospitalization and caused me to be away from my newborn baby at a time that he needed me the most.
When recovering from the depression, I searched for any and all help to deal with the guilt, shame and condemnation this experience brought. And, in order to decrease my chances of going through another mental health crisis, I decided to search, understand and embrace my Catholic Christian Faith. And, it was there, that I experienced complete healing, wholeness and transformation, never to suffer a depression again.
Through our Catholic faith, Jesus became the firm foundation on which my husband, Steve and I were able to build a beautiful family, full of love, life and purpose for our children and grandchildren.
And, although I would like to say to that we never experienced a trial or tribulation since. In 2019, we suffered the tragic lost our beautiful son Michael Robert at the age of 26. Michael suffered from a rare and chronic health condition without a sufficient medical diagnosis. This illness caused him chronic pain, fatigue, and isolation amongst many other symptoms, too many to mention. And, although his passing was devastating, we were able to receive God's healing, grace and provision through the mourning and grief we suffered as a family.
I never thought I could get through the loss of a child. And, I don't wish that hardship on anyone. But, because of our Catholic Christian Faith, Steve, myself and our other two children, Stephen and Elizabeth were able to lean on, trust in and practice the one true faith, Catholicism. And, although it took the love, provision and healing power of God, as well as the support of our family and friends, we were able to experience peace, hope and love in the midst of tragedy. We know that Michael is with Jesus. And, we look forward to the day that we will meet and embrace him again in our Heavenly Home.
Besides being wife, mom and grandmother, I am a Certified Professional Life Coach, Public Speaker and Podcast Host of The Unplanned Joyful Life.
I grew up in a loving but alcoholic and dysfunctional family. After going to group counseling with my family at the direction of our parents, I felt hope and excitement for the idea that change is possible. I saw my parents make significant transformation over time in order to bring health and wellness back to our family. And, I've been on a mission to live my best life ever since.
In this podcast, I’ll provide valuable insights to help you delve into the Catholic Faith, bring better understanding to the Church, it's practices and the benefits you will receive when practicing it on a regular basis. All this will help you become the best version of yourself. I will share “tried-and-true” tips and tricks for creating a God-centered home for you and your family. You will hear real-life examples of how to incorporate Catholic Christian values, Regular Self-Care, and Community Involvement in order to bring confidence, stability, and joy back into your life.
So, If you want to understand and embrace your Catholic faith, foster healthy relationships, and pursue goals and dreams that ignite your spirit, I’ll be here to support you every step of the way. You will hear from other Catholic Christians as they share their personal journey of faith, as well as professionals who will share their area of expertise with you.
Together, we’ll grow in knowledge, faith and grace to help you navigate “The Unplanned Joyful Life” with happiness and purpose!
So, take a deep breath, find a comfy spot, and listen in. We're going to do this together!
Listen on:
Episodes
18 hours ago
18 hours ago
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo shares a heartfelt Testimonial from Dawn Lopez Zoldos, a Retired Buffalo Homicide Detective and Holland Town Justice.
Cathy Jo describes some minor changes that will take place regarding her Coaching Services and Offers.
Finally, she shares the Top 10 Episodes from The Unplanned Joyful Life thus far! Links to the Top 10 episodes that include interviews are listed below And, Cathy Jo encourages you to listen (or re-listen) to these most popular and enjoyable podcast episodes.
*If this episode resonated or blessed you in any way, please write a review of the show on apple podcast!
For your complimentary 1:1 Virtual Coaching Session with Cathy Jo, schedule here: https://calendly.com/cathylang716/complimentary-coaching-with-cathy-jo
You can contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com, call her at 716-512-365, or checkout her website https://cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-joyful-life-gain-confidence-navigate/id1764716429?i=1000682236764
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-joyful-life-gain-confidence-navigate/id1764716429?i=1000698745689
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-joyful-life-gain-confidence-navigate/id1764716429?i=1000701738673
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-joyful-life-gain-confidence-navigate/id1764716429?i=1000705684092
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-joyful-life-gain-confidence-navigate/id1764716429?i=1000714644389
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-joyful-life-gain-confidence-navigate/id1764716429?i=1000717745156
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unplanned-joyful-life-gain-confidence-navigate/id1764716429?i=1000737254752
7 days ago
7 days ago
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life, Cathy Jo has the pleasure of meeting and speaking with Patrick Neve. Patrick is a the cohost of The Bropostles podcast and writer behind CatholicPat on Substack. He holds a Masters degree in Systematic Theology from Franciscan University and is a husband and father. At the age of 28, it has been Patrick's mission to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to his generation of men. And, he is bringing these same men back to the Catholic Church! Patrick is intelligent, kind and so much fun to talk with. You will learn a lot from Patrick. And, you will laugh while doing it!
To listen to and/or connect with Patrick, you can find him at:
Bropostles Podcast: bropostles.com
CatholicPat: catholicpat.com
convinceyourfriends/battleplan
Socials are @bropostles and @catholicpat
*If this episode resonated or blessed you in any way, please write a review of the show on apple podcast!
For your complimentary 1:1 Virtual Coaching Session with Cathy Jo, schedule here: https://calendly.com/cathylang716/complimentary-coaching-with-cathy-jo
You can contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com, call her at 716-512-365, or checkout her website https://cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
Tuesday Dec 16, 2025
Tuesday Dec 16, 2025
Inside today's episode, Cathy Jo takes time to recognize Holy Mary, Mother of God! Cathy Jo shares 11 experiences/ points in her life where God used Mary to help her grow closer in faith to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. If you don't know much about Mary, or you don't feel the need to place importance on her role in God's plan, Jesus' life, or our salvation, I recommend that you take time to listen to this perspective and personal experience.
Listen to "Breath of Heaven: by Amy Grant: https://youtu.be/FWo3qlqyW1c?si=muOGzo4Bn-X6Dgfx
Look at "Marions of The Immaculate Conception": How to say the Rosary: https://marian.org/mary/rosary
Learn about Walking with Purpose Bible Studies: https://walkingwithpurpose.com/
Schedule your 30 minute Clarity Call with Cathy Jo Lang LLC below...
https://calendly.com/cathylang716/30-minute-clarity-call-with-cathy-jo
You can contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com, call her at 716-512-365, or checkout her website https://cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
Tuesday Dec 09, 2025
Inside today's episode of the Unplanned Joyful Life, Cathy Jo has the honor to meet and speak with Aimee Boudreaux MacIver. Aimee is a Writer, Speaker and Presenter. She operates a pilgrimage and travel apostolate, Thy Ship, and writes a weekly newsletter, A Heroic Moment. Aimee's Children's Books, "What Kind of Girls does God Make?" and "What Kind of Boys does God Make?" come out in April of 2026!
Aimee is thoughtful, reflective and extremely knowledgeable regarding the Catholic Faith. She is passionate about the Body-Soul Connection. And, she is eager to share what she knows about Theology of The Body with Catholics and non-Catholics alike.
You can find Aimee at:
IG: @thy.ship
Website: thyship.com
Newsletter/substack: A Heroic Moment https://aimeemaciver.substack.com
Schedule your 30 minute Clarity Call with Cathy Jo Lang LLC below...
https://calendly.com/cathylang716/30-minute-clarity-call-with-cathy-jo
You can contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com, call her at 716-512-365, or checkout her website https://cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
Monday Dec 01, 2025
Monday Dec 01, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo talks with author and speaker, Mary Lenaburg. Mary is the author of Brave for the Scared and Bold for the Broken. And, she is working on a third book that will be released in August of 2026.
Mary shares her story of struggles, hardships and finding her faith early on in her marriage. She also talks about her experiences of dealing with a child born with a seizure disorder and the sorrow of the passing of her daughter, Courtney when she was a young adult.
Mary talks about the difference between happiness and joy, as well as the opportunity we have each day to make the day before us a good day or a bad day.
You can buy Mary's books on Amazon and Ava Maria Press.
You can contact Mary at www.mary lenaburg.com or on Instagram @marylenaburg
*If this episode resonated or blessed you in any way, please write a review of the show on apple podcast!
For your complimentary 1:1 Virtual Coaching Session with Cathy Jo, schedule here: https://calendly.com/cathylang716/complimentary-coaching-with-cathy-jo
You can contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com, call her at 716-512-365, or checkout her website https://cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
Monday Nov 24, 2025
Monday Nov 24, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo meets and speaks with Pat Millea. Pat is a Catholic speaker, musician, leader, and business owner. He is cohost of "This Whole Life" Podcast with his wife, Kenna. They've been married for 16 years have seven children together!
Pat talks about where his faith journey began and why he is so passionate about helping others suffering due to mental illness. He and Kenna lead a team of professionals at The Martin Center for Integration, where therapy and faith are used to benefit their clients' mental health, wellness and quality of life.
He shares characteristics of a daily routine for mentally healthy Catholics, as well as what it's like to be a father of 7. Finally, Pat gives words of support, advice and encouragement for anyone dealing with mental health issues whether it be a chronic and mild issue such as anxiety or extreme aguish related to a mental health crisis.
You can email Pat at info@martincenterforintegration.com
And, you can listen to him at:
https://thiswholelifepodcast.com
on Instagram: @thiswholelifepodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thiswholelifepodcast
*If this episode resonated or blessed you in any way, please stop what you are doing and write a review of the show on apple podcast!
For your complimentary 1:1 Virtual Coaching Session with Cathy Jo, schedule here: https://calendly.com/cathylang716/complimentary-coaching-with-cathy-jo
You can contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com, call her at 716-512-365, or checkout her website https://cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
Tuesday Nov 18, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo meets and talks with Father Michael Sliney. Father Michael was born and raised in a Catholic, faith-filled and loving home. His personal relationship with Jesus started at a very young age. And, it continues to lead Father in all areas of his life and ministry.
Father shares details of blessings and hardships he's experienced in his life and priesthood. And, there are some challenges he's had to face due to the mistakes and sins of others. But, none of this has stopped him from listening and following God's call on his life. And, he continues to change lives for the good!
Father feels strongly, that we as Catholics, need to change the narrative "not only to count your blessings but to count your crosses as blessings" too! Finally. Father shares words of support and compassion for anyone facing an unplanned pregnancy or who has stepped into motherhood earlier than planned.
You can contact Father at sliney.org
*If this episode resonated or blessed you in any way, please stop what you are doing and write a review of the show on apple podcast!
For your complimentary 1:1 Virtual Coaching Session with Cathy Jo, schedule here: https://calendly.com/cathylang716/complimentary-coaching-with-cathy-jo
You can also contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com
or call 716-512-365 or checkout her website cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
Tuesday Nov 11, 2025
Tuesday Nov 11, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life, Cathy Jo talks with Dan Venezia. Dan is a Professional Athlete, Speaker and Author of "Surviving Covid"- How Faith, Focus, Fitness, and Hydroxychloroquine Saved Me.
Dan was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY by a single parent and Catholic Mom. In 1993 he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins. And, the following year, he had his first near death experience where he had 3 future visions.
In 2020, Dan had his second near death experience. And, he soon found out that he had a spiritual mother, Our Queen of Heaven and Earth!
Dan Venezia is an Evangelist and blessed to boldly proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ at Retreats, events, and Parishes. Dan describes his faith timeline this way...
"I was cradled, then dragged, then lost, then found, then Luke-warm, now I am beginning to figure some things out. The conversion, or reversion is ongoing..."
If you would like to connect with Dan Venezia, you can reach him at:
https://danvenezia.com
Instagram:danvenezia23
And, you can get his book, Surviving Covid at:
https://www.amazon.com/Surviving-Covid-19-Faith-Fitness-Hydroxychloroquine/dp/1642937487
*If this episode resonated or blessed you in any way, please stop what you are doing and write a review of the show on apple podcast!
For your complimentary 1:1 Virtual Coaching Session with Cathy Jo, schedule here: https://calendly.com/cathylang716/complimentary-coaching-with-cathy-jo
You can also contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com
or call 716-512-365 or checkout her website cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
Thursday Nov 06, 2025
Thursday Nov 06, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life, Cathy Jo addresses the topic of Worry. If you worry too much, anxiety overwhelms you, or fear controls your actions, this episode is for you! Anxiety is a feeling. And, we all experience it at certain degrees. But, if you are in a constant state of worry or fear, there are things that can help. And, it's important that you get the help you need in order to live a meaningful, purposeful and joyful life!
Cathy Jo talks about her own experiences with anxiety, what the Bible says about it, and 10 things you can do to decrease worry, anxiety or fear in your life. Improve your quality of life today by getting the help you need. There is support out there for you. The online program that is mentioned in the show is The Serenity Method by Lawrence Leyton.
If this episode resonated or blessed you in any way, please stop what you are doing and write a review of the show on apple podcast!
For your complimentary 1:1 Virtual Coaching Session with Cathy Jo, schedule here: https://calendly.com/cathylang716/complimentary-coaching-with-cathy-jo
You can also contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com
or call 716-512-365 or checkout her website cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Tuesday Nov 04, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life, Cathy Jo introduces Listeners to the Cheryl Guggemos. Cheryl is the Executive Director of Sensational Fun, and she shares her passion for working with children with special needs. Cheryl talks about where this passion comes from, and how and why she and Jennifer Vasquez started this organization where all children are loved, accepted and welcomed. Sensational Fun is a safe place and a no-judgement zone, where children can be themselves, play, and learn social skills!
Cheryl tells us about the many programs and services offered at Sensational Fun such as Sensational Start, Social Skills, Open Play, Masterpieces in Motion, Art Class and other holiday and seasonal programs. She is hoping to offer Respite Night so parents can catch a break and have time to regroup. relax or do whatever they'd like. Please consider donating to Sensational Fun! You can connect with Cheryl and Sensational Fun here...
Email: otcheryl@sensationalfun.org
Facebook, messenger, IG: Sensational Fun,Inc
Website: Sensationalfun.org
And, if this episode resonated or blessed you in any way, please stop what you are doing and write a review of the show on apple podcast now!
For your complimentary 1:1 Virtual Coaching Session with Cathy Jo, schedule here: https://calendly.com/cathylang716/complimentary-coaching-with-cathy-jo
You can also contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com
or call 716-512-365 or checkout her website cathyjolangllc.com
Thank you and God bless!