This isn’t about keeping resolutions or trying harder. It’s about not quitting on yourself.

In this first episode of 2026, I explain what it really means to be plucky and why determined courage (not perfection) is the key to living an authentic, aligned life.

• What “plucky” really means and how to practice determined courage
• Why perfectionism keeps us stuck (and how to move forward anyway)
• The PLUCKY framework:
  • Proactive over reactive
  • Longevity over rushing
  • Underdog courage before confidence
  • Consistency that compounds
  • Kindness to your inner beginner
  • Yet — the mindset that keeps you going

If you’ve fallen off track, feel discouraged, or are tempted to quit, this episode will help you keep moving forward — imperfectly and bravely.

• Book a free Courage Consult with Carrie
• Let’s connect on Instagram @carriejobradley

What happens when life doesn’t just take a detour—but completely reroutes your future?

In this deeply moving episode of Plucky Not Perfect, I’m joined by Erika Brouillette—mom, caregiver, advocate, podcast host, and founder of Reclaim: TBI Wives. Erika shares her story of becoming a full-time caregiver overnight when her husband suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, and how that moment reshaped her identity, faith, boundaries, and purpose.

We talk about:

• Advocating for a child with special needs—and a spouse with a traumatic brain injury
• Becoming a caregiver in the middle of crisis (and COVID)
• Losing yourself in survival mode—and how to slowly reclaim who you are
• The permission many women need to care for themselves without guilt
• Setting boundaries after years of people-pleasing
• Finding hope when doctors give none
• Why community matters when no one else truly “gets it”
• Gratitude, faith, and recognizing glimmers of hope in the darkest seasons

Erika also shares how her own healing led her to create a space for other women walking similar roads—women who are so often asked how their husband is doing, but rarely how they are.

This conversation is for anyone who has found themselves living a life they didn’t plan—and is learning how to keep going anyway.

Connect with Erika:

• Website & Community: Reclaim TBI Wives
• Podcast: Real Lives of TBI Wives
• Socials: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok

Connect with your host: Carrie

When someone you care about is facing grief, illness, divorce, or any major life shake-up, it’s easy to worry about saying the wrong thing… and end up doing nothing. After my own cancer journey and recovery, I learned firsthand what truly helps and what doesn’t.

• Why something is better than nothing (even if you feel awkward)
• How to check in without adding pressure or expecting a reply
• Offering specific, practical help instead of “Let me know if you need anything”
• Caring for friends from afar: texts, cards, gift cards, meaningful little touches
• Supporting friends nearby: homemade food, errands, childcare, time together
• What not to do when you're trying to help

You don’t have to be perfect, just present. Plucky helps! Small gestures of care go a long way.

Email me at thecarriejobradley@gmail.com if you would like the companion guide to this episode, a free printable PDF with tangible reminders of how to help in a time of need.

Let’s connect on Instagram @carriejobradley.