Ever feel that sting when someone gives you criticism, even when you know it’s supposed to help? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine take on the surprisingly tough (and super common) challenge of handling feedback without letting defensiveness take over.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why even the kindest of us can get prickly when criticism comes our way
• Simple moves that can turn a tough conversation into a personal growth moment
• Real talk about the magic of pausing, breathing, and saying “thank you” (even when it’s hard)
• How to spot the gold in critical feedback, without letting a single comment ruin your whole day
• What to do when feedback feels overwhelming, and how to come back to the conversation when you’re ready
• Why gratitude - genuine, not forced - leaves both sides feeling respected and seen
• Thoughtful ways to ask questions and clarify so you actually get value from what you hear
• Practical reminders that you don’t have to have the perfect reaction in the moment (and that’s okay)

If you’re working on being less reactive and more open, or just want a little encouragement to take feedback in stride, this episode is for you.

(This mini “How Do I…” episode is perfect for anyone who’s ever bristled at feedback, wants to show up as their best self, or just needs a little help finding the lessons in critique.)

Want more? Get a copy of the book here.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever wonder how to help the children in your life grow into positive, compassionate, and resilient individuals… the kind of people who naturally bring light to those around them? In this “How Do I…” episode of Be the Sun, Not the Salt, Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine dig into what it really takes to teach kids to be heliotropic.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why modeling positivity and practicing it yourself is the foundation when raising children who radiate warmth and kindness
• Honest reflections on the messy journey of parenting, including moments we wish we could redo and how to keep improving no matter your kids’ ages
• The surprising ways everyday moments shape how children see themselves and others
• What it means to show up authentically as a parent—even when you don’t have all the answers
• How to navigate the tricky balance of encouragement, boundaries, and emotional honesty
• Insights about the “salt on the roots” metaphor and what it means for your unique family dynamics
• Why apologizing and cleaning up when you mess up is one of the best lessons you can pass on
• How little acts of recognition can have outsized impact on a child’s confidence and character

If you’re curious about raising kids who don’t just survive but thrive with warmth and resilience, this mini-episode offers real talk, gentle guidance, and moments of humor to help you be a little sun, not the salt in your home and your heart.

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Ever feel stuck holding onto a grudge and know it’s zapping your energy? In this “How Do I…” episode of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt,” Dr. Harry Cohen and Connie Fontaine get real about the challenge of letting go - why so many of us find it hard, how resentment keeps us stuck, and what it actually takes to move on.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• Why holding a grudge is like clutching a hot coal: you’re the one getting burned
• How compassion (not just forgiveness) can help shift your perspective and lighten your load
• Simple reframes and honest reflections about what it means to let go (and why releasing resentment doesn’t mean you’re not protecting your own roots)
• Lessons learned from guests who’ve faced the unimaginable and found a way to release the pain, including stories like Trinea Gonczar’s courageous path to healing and forgiveness
• A candid invitation to look at what you’re carrying, ask “Who is this serving?” and consider ways to release old baggage, one conversation, thought, or act at a time

If you’re ready to drop what’s weighing you down, find a little more peace, and make room for good energy, this mini episode offers humor, hope, and some gentle nudges toward freedom.

Tune in for honest conversation, practical perspective, and a call to let go - just a little - today.

(Mini “How Do I…” episode—perfect for anyone navigating tough relationships, struggling with resentment, or committed to growing wiser, not just older.)

Useful Links

Trinea Gonczar’s “Be the Sun, Not the Salt” episode

“Be the Sun, Not the Salt” book

To explore the book, or for more episodes, information, tips and tools to live a more heliotropic life, visit us at bethesunnotthesalt.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.