The Unplanned Joyful Life - Faith, Prayer, Catholic Church, Resilience, Self-Confidence
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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 But, as an adult, you have become totally withdrawn from the Church?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
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!
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo has the pleasure of meeting and speaking with Noah Lee Koningisorn, otherwise known as "Noah Lee and The Stetson's". After seeing Noah perform live and enjoying his undeniable talent and showmanship , Cathy Jo wanted others to know and experience Noah's God-given talent as well!
Noah tells us about his early childhood and life-long experience of growing up in a family where music was enjoyed, encouraged and embraced regularly. From Elvis Presley and Jim Croce, to Gordon Lightfoot and John Denver, Noah performs a wide variety of artists. But most importantly, he writes and performs his own music too. He uses life experiences and faith to guide in the creation of his music, lyrics and artwork. I highly encourage you to find and follow him on listening apps. And if you can see and hear him perform live, you will not be disappointed!
You can listen/follow Noah on Spotify/ Streaming Platform Handle: Noah Koningisorn
https://open.spotify.com/artist/5xebDxXyOoKudGNgOC9wdB
Follow him on Social Media: @noah_k__music
Website: https://linktr.ee/koningisorn
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!
Monday Oct 27, 2025
Monday Oct 27, 2025
Inside today's episode of the Unplanned Joyful Life, Cathy Jo addresses the issue of opposing political views being the culprit for stress and tension at holiday gatherings. Holiday traditions might change. You may not celebrate with the regular crew this year. And, there might be less faces gathered around the table for Turkey Dinner. But there are somethings that never change. Thanksgiving will still be Thanksgiving. Christmas will still be Christmas. And, many families will find common ground by agreeing to disagree. Cathy Jo shares some scenarios that you might face, ways to deal with uncomfortable conversations and 5 things you can do to make the most of this holiday season.
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!
Monday Oct 20, 2025
Monday Oct 20, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo will meet and talk with Suzanne Bilodeau. She is a Wife, Momma of 6, Podcast Host and Author.
An Academic and Professional Overachiever who encountered Christ in the early stages of motherhood. After being brought to her knees due to her inability to do this incredible work alone, she chose to surrender to God's will over her life. And, she's been on a mission to tell the world about Jesus and the magnificent vocation of motherhood.
Inspired by the story of Martha and Mary in the Bible, she created her podcast, Latte and Laundry.
Finally, after feeling the need for support from other more experienced mothers in her life, she began to compile stories rom others who were a few steps ahead of her in the journey. They shared personal stories about their experiences as mothers in reference to 1 Corinthians. And, the book was published in the spring of this year, 2025. It is titled, "She Loved", Resting in the Beauty of Motherhood.
Suzanne is smart, kind, reflective and honest. And, I feel hopeful for new and young mamas who listen to her show!
You can connect with Suzanne at suzanne@latteandlaundry.com
Listen to her podcast latte and laundry on most listening apps.
Purchase her book, "She Loved" at www.ascensionpress.com/sheloved
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!
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 Oct 14, 2025
Tuesday Oct 14, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo meets and interviews Sister Rita Marie Kampa. Originally from Minnesota, she became a Dominican Sister of St. Cecelia which is based in Nashville, TN. She teaches Religion and History at St John Paul II High School in Avondale, AZ. , where she presently resides.
Sister's love for the Lord and joy of teaching is evident in the details she shares in today's episode. She tells us about her incredible Vocation story, what life is like as a Dominican Sister and a Catholic High School Religion and History Teacher.
Sister gives us insight into what she's learned about the teenagers she works with. She touches on technology use, motivation and the significance of a culture of belonging.
And, as a huge Marvel fan, she explains why she considers watching this super hero series to be a great opportunity to teach and to learn virtue. She finishes with some words of wisdom in regard to dealing with individuals and teens who might be questioning their Catholic faith.
For more informations about the Dominican Sisters, you can find them at nashvilledominican.org
Books recommended by Sister Marie Kampa in the episode are:
"The Anxious Generation" by Jonathon Haidt
"10-25 The Science of Motivating Young People" by David Yeager
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!
Monday Oct 06, 2025
Monday Oct 06, 2025
Inside today's episode of The Unplanned Joyful Life Podcast, Cathy Jo updates and informs on the new format of the show. She explains the new tagline, "Embracing Faith, Navigating Adversity and Living Joyfully". And, she expresses gratitude to Clients, Listeners, Podcast Guests and all who support her on this journey. Cathy Jo Invites you to checkout her website, cathyjolangllc.com
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!