The Unplanned Joyful Life - Gain Confidence, Navigate Adversity, Live Purposefully, Engage your Christian Faith, Catholic Church

Ranked top 5% globally


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  But, as an adult, you have become totally withdrawn from the Church?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:

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • Amazon Music
  • TuneIn + Alexa
  • iHeartRadio
  • PlayerFM
  • Listen Notes
  • Podchaser

Episodes

Thursday Sep 19, 2024

Inside today's episode of the Unplanned Joyful Life, Cathy Jo shares a general overview of her personal and professional Breastfeeding Journey.  From starting to breastfeed her first child tat age 19, to becoming certified an IBCLC and Trainer for The Baby Friendly Initiative.  Cathy Jo has been able to serve and support other women in a variety of settings.  And, she hopes this episodes gives you an idea of how and why she's a great support for Breastfeeding Mamas.
She refers to Romans 12:2
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will."
And finally, Cathy Jo shares 9 things you can do to evolve personally and professionally.
If this podcast blessed you in any way:
Write a review on Apple Podcasts
Join Cathy Jo's free Facebook group, The Unplanned Joyful Life and/or 
Contact Cathy Jo for a Free Coaching Session at cathylang716@gmail.com
Thank you!

Tuesday Sep 17, 2024

In today's episode, Cathy Jo discusses ways that God has used and continues to use her hardships, brokenness, sinfulness as well as her gifts, skills and talents for the good.  Referring to Romans 8:28 NIV :
28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Cathy Jo shares specific hardships and challenges she has faced early on and ways that God provided them as opportunities for Cathy Jo to use for her good and for the good of others, and to help create a full and meaningful life for Cathy Jo and her family.  And, most importantly ways that Cathy has chosen to live in a way that she can glorify God.
Books mentioned in today's episode:
"Boundaries" by Dr Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
"Cup of Life" byJoyce Rupp
Podcasts mentioned in today's podcast:
"Bible in a Year" podcast hosted by Father Mike Schmitz
"Catechism in a Year" podcast hosted by Father Mike Schmitz
Resources for breastfeeding moms and their children:
Care Connection in Williamsville, NY
WNY Pediatrics in Orchard Park, NY
 
 
 

Thursday Sep 12, 2024

In today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo recounts her recovery, healing and coming to terms with her Postpartum Depression.  She also explains how true healing came through her rediscovery of her Catholic Christian Faith.  Cathy Jo includes 4 (plus a bonus) ways you can learn and become more engaged in The Catholic Christian Faith.
Join the Free Facebook group The Unplanned Joyful Life
Write a review of the Show
And, for a private coaching session with Cathy Jo Lang RN, Certified Coach, Trainer and Speaker, contact Cathy Jo at cathylang716@gmail.com
Thank you And God Bless!
 

Tuesday Sep 10, 2024

Cathy Jo will continue a conversation with her guest Lisa Mustillo LCSW.  Lisa lives outside Atlanta, GA.  She is licenced in GA and NY.  We continue with our open dialog about what mental health issue might look like, what we can learn about symptoms of depression, how family dynamics and can be a factor in both risk factors for mental health crises as well as support in recovery.  Both Lisa and Cathy Jo want to convey the importance of openness and willingness to reach out for and to obtain the help needed in order to receive appropriate and life-preserving mental health care.
If you are suffering mentally or emotionally in any way, please talk to your doctor, and for counseling services for those living in NY and GA feel free to reach out to Lisa at lisamustillolcsw@gmail.com
Look for Lisa Mustillo LCSW and other therapists online at Psychology today.
Join my free Facebook group "The Unplanned Joyful Life"
Write a review on Apple Podcasts
or Contact Cathy Jo Lang for a 1:1 Coaching session at cathylang716@gmail.com
Thank you for listening.  Have a truly blessed and beautiful day!
 

Thursday Sep 05, 2024

In today's episode, Cathy Jo will talk with Lisa Mustillo LCSW who owns a private practice outside Atlanta, Georgia.  She is licensed in NY and GA
Lisa and Cathy Jo will discuss the importance of mental health and a variety of risk factors that can contribute to a mental health crisis, anxiety and/or depression.  If you are looking to set up counseling services, psychology today is a great place to look.  It will give information such as Counselor's background, specialty, Insurance he or she takes and location.  You can do this all in the privacy of your own home.  If you are concerned or feel the need to talk to someone, pleas do not hesitate.  
If you are a resident of NY or GA and would like to reach out to Lisa, her contact info is:lisamustillolcsw@gmail.com
For a personal Coaching session with Cathy Jo, contact her at cathylangllc@gmail.com
And, join Cathy's free Facebook page, The Unplanned Joyful Life
Thank you and have a blessed day!
 

#4 My Postpartum Depression

Tuesday Sep 03, 2024

Tuesday Sep 03, 2024

In today's episode Cathy Jo talks about her experience with Postpartum Depression.  She shares some details of the symptoms as well as the support and treatment that helped her in her recovery.  She will also share 5 things you can do if experiencing symptoms of depression and the importance of self-care.
Cathy Jo encourages anyone suffering from symptoms of depression to reach out for help as soon as possible, follow the plan agreed upon by you and your doctor (or therapist).  And, most importantly, if the symptoms continue, reach out again and seek further care until you receive the care and treatment appropriate to your personal situation.  I hope this podcast blesses you.
 
Join my free Facebook group The Unplanned Joyful Life
Contact me for a private coaching session at cathylang716@gmail.com 
Write a review of the show and send a snapshot of the review to cathylang716@gmail.com
 
Thank you for listening.
Have a blessed day
Cathy Jo 

Thursday Aug 29, 2024

In today's episode, Cathy Jo will continue to share personal details related to the early stages of her Unplanned Joyful Life Journey.  She will include 6 things you can do to plan/prepare for the postpartum period.  As you transition from pregnancy to parenthood, keep these in mind:
1. Find a pediatrician 2. look into breastfeeding 3. Learn what breast and bottle feeding entails and what equipment you'll need. 4. Keep things simple. 5. Ask for help. 6. Create healthy boundaries r/t visitors.  Most importantly, accept and ask for support from others.
Join my Free Unplanned Joyful Life Facebook Group
Write a review, take a snapshot and send your review to cathylang716@gmail.com to enter a chance to win a $50 Amazon card.  Entries must be received by the end of the day 8/30/24.  Will pick a winner 8/31/24 at 10am
For a personal coaching session, contact Cathy Jo Lang at cathylang716@gmail.com
Thank you for listening,
I hope you have a truly blessed and beautiful day!

Tuesday Aug 27, 2024

In today's episode, Cathy Jo will share personal details of the early stages of her Unplanned Joyful Life Journey: Finding out she was pregnant, talking to her boyfriend (now husband), making plans and receiving family support.  She looks back on these memories as a sacred time for herself, her husband, her family and the family yet to be!  Cathy Jo shares 6 points that she'd like to share that might help you in the early stages of your Unplanned Joyful Life Journey.
Screenshot your review of the show and send to cathylang716@gmail.com to enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift card.  Drawing takes place 8/31/24 at 10am
join the Free Facebook group "The Unplanned Joyful Life"
Contact Cathy Jo For a personal coaching session at cathylang716@gmail.com
God bless!

Wednesday Aug 21, 2024

In today's episode, Cathy Jo Lang with welcome you to the first episode of the Unplanned Joyful Life podcast.  She will explain how she came to create the Podcast, who she plans to serve through the podcast and 4 areas that will help support listeners as they journey through their Unplanned Joyful Life.  
She welcomes you to write a review of the show and send a screenshot of it to cathylang716@gmail.com to enter a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card.
Join Cathy Jo's free Facebook group, The Unplanned Joyful Life.
Cathy also recommended reading Cup of Our Life by Joyce Rump
Finally, if you'd like a private coaching session with Cathy Jo, email her at cathylang716@gmail.com
Thank you and have a truly blessed and beautiful day!

Tuesday Aug 06, 2024

In the Trailer for the Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo Lang will introduce you to the What The Unplanned Joyful Podcast is all about.  If you are a younger Christian mom and wife after experiencing an unplanned pregnancy (or you want to understand and support those who are), this podcast is for you.  Welcome!  And, stay tuned.  Episode 1 launches 8/27/24 at 5 am.  I hope to meet you there.
Until then,
Please....
*Write a review of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, screenshot it and email to cathylang716@gmail.com to enter to win a prize during the initial Launch 8/27/24-8/20/24
*Join my free private group: The Unplanned Joyful Life Facebook Group
*Contact me via cathylang716@gmail.com for a private coaching session
Thank you!  And, may God bless you and your beautiful family!
See you August 27,2024!
 
 

Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.

Podcast Powered By Podbean

Version: 20241125